We’re Expanding Redlands Now, Because That’s How You Really Live

More shows. More food. More nearby events, without losing our Redlands soul.

If you stepped outside this past week, you know exactly what I'm talking about.

Warm afternoons. Cool mornings. That perfect January weather that makes you appreciate Southern California living.

Meanwhile, my daughter Bella is dealing with a snowstorm in Boston. She called this weekend, and I could hear the wind howling in the background. I told her, "It was 80 degrees here yesterday." She wasn't amused.

Liz and I had a fantastic time at the Yucaipa Performing Arts Center this past weekend. We caught a comedy show, a dual performance that had us laughing the entire night. We went with close friends, and honestly, it was one of those evenings that reminds you why live entertainment matters.

After the show, another couple told us about the Eagles tribute band that just played there. "Desperado" performed a this past week, and they said it was incredible.

We missed it, but now we're on the lookout.

And that got me thinking:

*Why aren't we telling you about these shows?

Yucaipa Performing Arts Center is a 12-minute drive from downtown Redlands.

The Three Stags has live music every weekend. The District brings in great bands. LifeHouse Theater puts on productions that rival anything you'd see in LA.

These aren't "regional" events—these are OUR events. Places we actually go. Shows we actually see.

So starting this week, we're expanding RedlandsNow.com coverage to include entertainment, dining, and events in nearby cities like Yucaipa, Highland, Loma Linda, and occasionally San Bernardino when something's worth the drive.

This newsletter isn't about city limits. It's about covering the life you're actually living in this corner of the Inland Empire.

More on that below. Let's dive into this week's news.

**Carlos & The RedlandsNow.com Team**

Construction Finally Begins on Long-Awaited Redlands Mall Redevelopment

After years of anticipation and shifting plans, construction has officially begun on the redevelopment of the Redlands Mall. Crews were on-site this week, marking the start of a new chapter for the long-dormant downtown property.

The initial phase involves cleaning and preparing the site for demolition, with temporary fencing expected to be installed soon. The project is now in the hands of Esri co-founders Jack and Laura Dangermond, who purchased the property last fall.

While the final plans are still in development, the Dangermonds have a proven track record of high-quality projects in Redlands, including the renovation of the Santa Fe Depot and the development of the Redlands Packing House District.

Read more at Redlands Daily Facts →

Citibank Opens New Downtown Redlands Branch

Citibank has opened a new branch at 333 Orange Street in downtown Redlands, expanding its Southern California footprint and bringing additional in-person banking, financial education, and small-business services to the city's downtown corridor.

The location, which opened in November 2025, reflects Citi's continued investment in brick-and-mortar banking and community-based financial services in the Inland Empire.

"This beautiful new branch is a testament to our enduring partnership with this community," said Lisa Deloney, region head for Southern California at Citi.

The exterior features a mural by local artist James McClung depicting Redlands' historic citrus groves. The branch opening included tours for residents and refreshments from local businesses, including Bricks and Birch pizza and Martha's Green bakery.

Read more at Community Forward Redlands →

A Mentorship That Crosses Disciplines at the University of Redlands

A recent story from the University of Redlands highlights a unique and inspiring mentorship between History Professor Jessie Hewitt and Johnston student Annalina Lowden.

While Lowden is pursuing a career in clinical mental health counseling, she found a valuable mentor in Hewitt, whose expertise lies in the history of disability and gender.

Lowden, who works with patients with schizophrenia, found that Hewitt's classes on the history of disability and madness provided a rich historical context for her future career.

The story is a testament to the power of a liberal arts education and the unexpected connections that can be forged between different fields of study.

Read more at University of Redlands →

NEW FEATURE: BEYOND REDLANDS

We're Expanding Our Entertainment Coverage- Here's Why

For the past few weeks, you've been asking: "What about Yucaipa?" "Anything happening in Highland?" "Can you cover San Bernardino events too?"

I hear you. And you're right.

Here's the thing, Redlands doesn't exist in a bubble. We live here, we love it here, but we also drive 15 minutes to catch a great show in Yucaipa or grab dinner with friends in Loma Linda.

That's real life.

So starting this week, we're expanding RedlandsNow.com to include select entertainment, dining, and events from nearby cities, Yucaipa, Highland, Loma Linda, and occasionally San Bernardino when something's worth the drive.

What this means for you:

• More live music options within 20 minutes of Redlands
• Better weekend planning with regional events
• Discovering hidden gems in neighboring communities
• One newsletter that covers your actual life, not just city limits
  
  

What this DOESN'T mean:

• We're not becoming a regional news site
• Redlands is still our home base and primary focus
• We'll only share nearby events that are genuinely worth your time
• No fluff. No filler. Just real recommendations.
  
  

This week's example: The Yucaipa Performing Arts Center is hosting an incredible Aerosmith & Foreigner tribute show on January 31st.

That's a 12-minute drive from downtown Redlands. Why wouldn't we tell you about it?

Same goes for The Three Stags' live music lineup, LifeHouse Theater productions, and The District's weekly shows. These are OUR venues, places where Redlands families actually go.

Bottom line: If it's within 20 minutes, it's family-friendly or date-night worthy, and it's happening this week, we'll let you know about it.

Because at the end of the day, this newsletter isn't about city limits. It's about helping you enjoy life in this corner of the Inland Empire we call home.

What do you think? Good move? Let me know: carlos@redlandsnow.com

🌳 AROUND THE GROVES

A few other things we noticed around town this week:

• The Sunday Morning Market at Olive Ave Market is in full swing—a great place to grab a coffee and a pastry while you browse (9 a.m. every Sunday).
• University of Redlands sports updates: The men's and women's basketball teams continue their strong seasons. The women's flag football team kicked off their 2026 season at the Golden State Games. Go Bulldogs!
• 2026 Annual Redlands T-shirt Design Contest: Submissions are open through February 19 at the Redlands Visitor Center (14 N. Fifth Street). Winner announced February 24.
• Storytime at The Frugal Frigate: Every Saturday at 10:30 a.m. (9 N. 6th St.)

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT: Redlands Executive Suites

Redlands Executive Suites

Where Redlands Professionals Get Down to Business, Without the Overhead

If you've ever thought about starting your own practice, launching a consulting business, or just getting out of the spare bedroom office, but the thought of signing a 5-year lease and buying furniture makes your stomach turn—this week's spotlight is for you. It's been our home since 2017.

Redlands Executive Suites at 1255 W. Colton Ave. has been Redlands' best-kept secret for professionals who need a real office without the traditional headaches.

Here's what sets them apart:

Fully Furnished Individual Offices

Walk in, plug in your laptop, and you're in business. No furniture shopping. No IKEA assembly nightmares. No months of setup before you can see your first client.

Professional Conference Rooms

Need to meet with clients? They've got you covered. Conference rooms are available when you need them—no scheduling nightmares, no fighting over the good room.

Shared Amenities That Actually Matter

Fully equipped kitchen. High-speed internet. Printing and copying. Mail handling. A professional receptionist to greet your clients. The stuff that makes you look established—even if you're brand new.

Virtual Office Options

Don't need a physical office every day? They offer virtual office packages starting at $99/month. Get a prestigious Redlands business address, mail handling, and access to conference rooms when you need them.

The Real Advantage: Flexibility

No long-term lease commitments. No utilities to manage. No janitorial services to coordinate. No property taxes. No maintenance headaches. Just a professional office space that lets you focus on what you do best, serving your clients.

Who's Using Redlands Executive Suites?

• CPAs and tax professionals (especially during tax season)
• Attorneys building their practice
• Real estate agents who need a professional meeting space
• Consultants and financial advisors
• Therapists and counselors
• Small business owners who've outgrown the home office

Location Matters

Right off the 10 Freeway. Close to downtown Redlands restaurants. Easy parking. Your clients won't circle the block looking for a spot.

Stop by for a tour. Tell them Carlos sent you.

THIS WEEK IN REDLANDS

🎸 The District (19 Citrus Ave, Redlands)

• Tuesday, Jan 21 - No Hard Feelings (TONIGHT!)
• Thursday, Jan 22 - Daytime Moon, 7:00 PM
  
  

🍀 The Three Stags Irish Pub (328 Orange St, Redlands)

• Thursday, Jan 22 - Colin Reid, 9:00 PM - 11:55 PM
• Friday, Jan 23 - Coleslaw
• Saturday, Jan 24 - Whiskey Sunday (Acoustic Trio), 8:00 PM - 11:00 PM
• Sunday, Jan 25 - Ken O'Malley, 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Insider Tip: The best Guinness in the Inland Empire, and the live music lineup is consistently excellent.

🎭 LifeHouse Theater (1135 Church St, Redlands)

• NOW PLAYING through February 15: "Beauty and the Beast" - Musical
• Showtimes: Weekends (Fridays & Saturdays at 7:00 PM)
• Family-friendly production—perfect for all ages!
• Tickets: (909) 335-3037 or lifehousetheater.com/tickets

Read more at Redlands Daily Facts →

THIS WEEKEND IN NEARBY YUCAIPA

🎤 Yucaipa Performing Arts Center (12062 California St, Yucaipa)

• Friday, January 31 - AEROSMITH & FOREIGNER Tribute Night
• Aerowings (Aerosmith tribute) + Foreign Heroes (Foreigner tribute)
• 7:30 PM showtime
• Just 12 minutes from downtown Redlands
• Tickets: yucaipaperformingarts.org

ANCA's Free Repair Cafe

When: Saturday, January 24, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Where: Flores Senior Center, 111 West Lugonia Ave

Insider Tip: Don't toss that broken lamp or wobbly chair! Bring it to the Repair Cafe and get free hands-on help from local experts. It's a great way to save money, reduce waste, and learn a new skill.

More info →

The Farmers Market at the Grove School

When: Saturday, January 24, 8 a.m.

Where: The Grove School

Insider Tip: Get there early for the best selection of fresh, local produce. It's a great way to support local farmers and enjoy the best of what our region has to offer.

More info →

Redlands Recital Series

When: Sunday, January 25, 2:30 p.m.

Where: First Presbyterian Church of Redlands, 100 Cajon St.

Insider Tip: The Redlands Symphony launches its new Recital Series featuring Principal Clarinetist Kathryn Nevin, along with Kira Blumberg on viola and pianist Laura Melton. A perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon enjoying beautiful music in a historic Redlands setting.

More info →

Quick Reads

VA Clinic Cancellations: Two-thirds of appointments at Loma Linda VA outpatient clinics have been canceled due to staff shortages, according to a recent audit. Veterans deserve better.

Olive Avenue Market: Three longtime friends have joined the ownership team at Olive Avenue Market in Redlands. Supporting local, community-owned businesses matters.

Loma Linda University Health: The medical center is seeking 10,000 community artworks for a massive mosaic mural project. A unique opportunity to be part of something permanent and beautiful.

T-Shirt Design Contest: The 2026 Annual Redlands T-shirt Design Contest is still accepting submissions at the Redlands Visitor Center through February 19th. Show your Redlands pride through design.

GRATITUDE & COMMUNITY

Thank you for being part of this community. For caring about what happens in Redlands. For supporting local businesses. For showing up to events. For reading this newsletter.

We're building something special here a place where people actually know their neighbors, where local businesses thrive, and where community still means something.

And now, with our expanded coverage, we're making it easier for you to discover everything this corner of the Inland Empire has to offer, whether it's 2 minutes away or 20.

Stay connected. Stay local.

Carlos Samaniego, EA
The RedlandsNow.com Team

P.S. Want to join our Inner Circle of local contributors? Email me at carlos@redlandsnow.com. No forms. No employees. Just a small group of people who care about Redlands and want to make sure we're covering what matters.

Sponsorship Opportunities

Ready to connect with engaged Redlands residents? Our newsletter reaches dedicated community members who support local businesses.

Contact us at info@redlandsnow.com to learn about sponsorship opportunities and tell us about your upcoming events.

That's all for this week! Thanks for reading, and we'll see you around the groves.

Stay connected, stay local,
Carlos Samaniego, EA

The RedlandsNow.com Team