HUSD honored at State level
in net position
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State budget problems loom ahead
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Hawkwatch documentary is also call to local volunteers
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Students of the Week
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By JP Crumrine Correspondent
Last month the California School Boards Association announced the recipients of its annual Golden Bells awards. This is the 46th year that the Board has honored school districts throughout the State.
This year Hemet Unified School District received a Golden Bell for its Daily Huddle Program. In 2024, HUSD was recognized for its Literacy Program and in 2023 for its Teacher Residency program.
The awards acknowledge excellence in education and school board governance. The CSBA recognizes outstanding programs and governance practices of boards, school districts and county offices of education.
The Golden Bell Awards reflect the depth and breadth of education programs and governance decisions supporting these programs that address students’ changing needs. This is an effort to highlight best practices in education in all areas of operations, instruction and support services.
HUSD’s Daily Huddle program was launched in the Spring of 2023. The initial pilot program began with four middle schools -- Acacia, Dartmouth, Diamond Valley, and Rancho Viejo. Since then, it has evolved into a districtwide program aimed at improving school safety, reducing student suspensions, and supporting site leadership through daily, structured collaboration.
This is a data-driven collaboration to address student behavior and safety. Leaders throughout the district meet daily at 7:45 a.m. to review aggression logs, trends, and deploy support in real time.
Results have included a 32 percent drop in aggression, 30 percent fewer suspensions and improved school climates.
Beyond the numbers, the Daily Huddle has transformed leadership culture across the district. Principals and assistant principals reported that the daily rhythm of connecting with peers and central office staff has created a stronger sense of support, urgency, and alignment. Instead of waiting for monthly leadership meetings to elevate concerns, site leaders now engage in behavior planning and intervention within hours of incidents. This shift has resulted in over 20 times more opportunities to identify patterns, prevent escalation, and provide targeted support to students, according to the HUSD website.
The Golden Bell Award for the Daily Huddle followed the 2024 Golden Bell for the District’s Literacy program. Since 2021, literacy skills have improved.
Then 78 percent of students were below grade level. Now, 50 percent of first and second graders advance at grade-level reading and writing skills, with additional districtwide growth.
In 2023, CSBA recognized Hemet USD’s Teacher Residency Program for tackling staff shortages, retention and diversity disparities. This was done in collaboration with San Jacinto USD and Alder Graduate School of Education.
MDP offers talk on assisting in unplanned non-hospital births
By David Jerome Correspondent
Mountain Disaster Preparedness is offering a free lecture by retired Certified Nurse Midwife Sue Rose on assisting in unplanned non-hospital births. This is the latest in a series of talks organized by MDP’s Core Medical Group, and is free and open to the public. MDP seeks to spread the kind of information that lay-people can use in the event of a disaster that might cut us off from first responders, and foster a more resilient community.
The talk will cover topics like how to recognize signs of labor, the requirements for immediate hospital transfer of mother and child, how to assist in an unplanned non-hospital birth, and how to create a safe environment for a newborn. Rose told the Town Crier she is a graduate of Yale University’s
Midwifery program and has taught at Yale and Harvard.
“This is for people who might want to be able to act as a good Samaritan if a car is pulled over by the side of the road with a woman in labor inside, or help a neighbor during an emergency like an earthquake or snow storm.”
Rose pointed out something that MDP’s directors repeat often: during an emergency that strikes regionally, like an earthquake, first responders would be very busy in the surrounding cities, we could be cut off, and FEMA might take weeks to get here.
Rose answered a question that came up on a local Facebook page: Why is childbirth an emergency? “It is always safer to have a planned birth. That could be a midwife at
home, a birthing center, or a hospital, where there is a trained provider who can deal with complications.”
Aside from well-known complications like breech birth, twins, or mothers with medical conditions including diabetes, simply knowing enough to make sure that a baby born in car does not drop on the floor can be helpful.
Rose adds that the talk is not intended to give enough information to have a safe unplanned non-hospital birth. “Midwifes do screening on their patients to screen out complications, and are ready.”
MDP presents Labor and Emergency Childbirth with retired Certified Nurse Midwife Sue Rose, Thursday, December 4:30 p.m. IFPD Meeting Room, 54160 Maranatha Drive.
Idyllwild Town Crier
Cameras catch the big moment as the big switch is flipped and the Idy Park trees light up. More pictures of the Tree Lighting Ceremony on Page B2
PHOTO BY PETER SZABADI
IWD announces Transparency award, hears of projects including new generator for Southridge, new antennas for problem meters, second round of MHI surveys
By David Jerome Correspondent
The November meeting of the directors of Idyllwild district included a review of the audit of the fiscal year 2024-25 financials, which is covered in a separate item this week. Director Wendy Harsha was not present.
General Manager Bill Rojas’ report showed another month of 7% water loss, a figure directors called excellent. Production was 8,249,736 gallons. Water revenue was $184,385 and expenses were $146,671. Sewer revenue was $93,400 and expenses $52,365.
The largest warrant was the final payment to El-Co for the completion of the Strawberry Creek raw water diversion pipeline, $133,500.
The General Manager’s report included the award of a California Special District Association Transparency Certificate of Excellence. The application begins with 15 website requirements, things like names and periods of service for board members, current budget and most recent audit requires, and at least six months of meeting minutes, then allows a district to pick at least four from a list of eleven additional items like board members’ contact information, audio recordings of meetings, maps of district boundaries, and the last three years of audits.
This reporter found seven of eleven additional items easily on IWD’s website. The site includes financial statements with audits since 2012. The four we did not find were: certificates for board members’ ethics training, an online/downloadable public records requests form, most recent Municipal Service Review and Sphere of Influence studies, and a link to the most recently filed Fair Political Practices Commission forms.
The Special District Leadership Foundation website includes sample policies to guide districts in creating policies in areas including Brown Act compliance, Public Records Act requests, reimbursement policies, conflict of interest policies, code of ethics policies and board vacancy announcements. Board President Charles Schelly noted that in addition to the submission of hundreds of pages of documents by office staff, board members, staff, and management had to complete training programs. A representative of CSDA will attend the January 21 meeting to present the award
The second round of Median Home Income (MHI) studies have been mailed out in support of upcoming grant applications for the rehabilitation of the wastewater treatment plant. In the first round, 71 out of 586 customers responded to the survey. The target, Rojas said, was at least 100 responses.
A member of the public asked about the survey, having read in the Town Crier that the district had paid
a subsidiary of California Rural Water Authority, SUSP, $7,625 for their work as consultants. They said they called the office about the district’s membership dues in CRWA, and were told they would need to fill out a public records request for that information. They wondered if that information was not readily accessible in the office.
CFO Hosny Shouman said that the dues are $900 and explained that information requests are better addressed to the GM, in a letter or email. Board President Charles Schelly added that you can also come to a board meeting and ask these kind of questions, and questions involving payments will be answered by Shouman.
A new generator and propane tank have been installed at the Southridge facility. The facility serves an area of low pressure, with separate systems maintaining pressure for homes and firefighting. In the past, when power failed, crew had to drive to the station to start the generator for water distribution. The diesel system serving the hydrants had a solar and battery backup, but this was not always reliable. The new system includes an automatic transfer switch system. The building was also reroofed and painted.
Preparations are also underway to replace the Generator at the Fern Valley 1-A treatment plant.
The effort to remedy poor transmission from electronic meters continues, with the first of 120 new lids and antennae installed. The problem, Rojas explained, is with meters that are far from the street. Although most meters are located along the shoulder of roads, some distribution lines run between houses, with the meters in remote spots. Rojas said there are 90 problem meters
The district has received the necessary credentials for their new Geographic Information System (GIS). The next stage is testing the system and mapping the Cedar Glen neighborhood and the Strawberry Creek Diversion.
The board passed Resolution #808, which states the intention of the board to reimburse the district for expenditures in pursuit of the Wastewater Treatment Plant project if and when grant funding is secured, up to $9,908,000, close to the expected total cost.
Rojas also reported that they are in the process of changing employee retirement policies to allow borrowing from the accounts in response to employee requests. Usually these kinds of loans must be repaid within 5 years, or 15 if the money is used for the purchase of a primary home.
The next scheduled meeting is December 17.
Idyllwild Weather
Members of ICCs Children’s Christmas Tree Choir entertain the crowd at 2025’s Tree Lighting.
PHOTO BY PETER SZABADI
Lake Fulmor
BY COREY PICKETT
USFS Division Chief Fogle addresses IFPD board and the community on the importance of the relationship between the two agencies
By David Jerome Correspondent
The November meeting of the Board of Commissioners of Idyllwild Fire Protection District covered four months of business, since the September meeting was canceled. It also included a review of the annual audit of the district’s finances. These matters will be covered next week.
Before normal business, board President Rhonda Andrewson recognized a visitor, USFS San Jacinto Division Chief Chris Fogle. Fogle spoke at length and without notes about the synergy between IFPD and the Forest Service.
He began by saying that he and IFPD Chief Mark LaMont had talked for “years and years about the importance of the relationship between the Forest Service and Idyllwild Fire, as two of the primary entities up here on the hill for community protection, fuels work and all of that. One of the things that we’ve talked about is that the Division Chief should be coming over and attending the board meetings…so we’re contributing and available for questions or comments…unfortunately it is the same date and time that we have our district Leadership Team meeting...”
Fogle had come, he said, to “share on behalf of the Forest Service how much we appreciate the interagency cooperation and partnership with Idyllwild Fire.” He noted that in the 26 years that IFPD has been in its present headquarters “very rarely have the two chiefs crossed the highway, which is insane.”
Fogle remarked that he and LaMont, while working their way up the ladder within their agencies and through management positions, had worked hard to fix that. Now, he said, they wanted to “make sure that the board and the community have a better understanding of the amount of effort, energy and cooperation there is between Idyllwild and the Forest Service.”
He recalled having come here over the years to talk about large wildland fires, team participation, and cost share agreements. “It’s always a privilege to me to be able to reach out and call Chief LaMont any time I need anything. The last couple years, as you all know, we’ve been a little short-staffed, and I was able to pick up the phone during some high fire danger, call Chief LaMont or one of the Battalion (Chiefs) and ask for engine coverage to augment our staffing, and there’s never been a ‘no’ answer, always been a ‘yes.’ That’s come at some real critical times...” This is part of IFPD’s mutual aid activity that LaMont reports on: when another agency is responding to an incident, IFPD may send an engine to make sure the responding station is covered. This was especially important during last winter’s high winds and numerous active fires.
Fogle began to talk of succession at the two agencies. “Both Chief LaMont and I are on the downhill side of our careers; we’re out in about two years…One of the only things that keeps me awake at night is ensuring that this relationship that we have worked at so hard for the last 25 years outlives us. We didn’t do a very good
job if it doesn’t.”
“I know Mark is working with his chief officers, I’m working with mine, and my folks who are captains and engineers, to ensure that they are spending some time, coming over here, getting to know their peers here at Idyllwild. Because this took a long time to get it to where it is, and it is best for the community to have this close of a relationship. What makes this work is, it’s not just a peer-to-peer relationship, it is a deep-rooted friendship that fills the gaps and the needs on both sides. That is really what we are working hard at; developing and ensuring that it is in place over the next couple of years, and that the relationship between the two continues to get stronger and does not start fading away after our tenure in the fire service is done.”
Fogle addressed the fuels reduction projects that have enabled firefighters to keep fire out of the community. “This is the time of the year when we start really focusing on fuels work and our fire threat starts to diminish a bit, it’s not gone but it goes down…Especially for us, we own a lot of land around the communities of Idyllwild, Pine Cove, Mountain Center, Twin Pines, all of that is forest.”
“Our primary objectives switch to fuels reduction, prescribed burning, pile burning. Our projects this year, our big project, is going to be the Pine Cove fuel break. We did pile burning there last year, and we’re going to do a broadcast burn this year to take all the surface fuels and really try to harden that line between the chaparral and the community. As we are doing that, we also have a partnership agreement that Chief LaMont and Chief Reyes for the Forest Service worked very hard on over the last three years to get in place.
“We’re looking at, around the first of the year, really starting to jump into the Strawberry fuel break, which is one of our primary fuel breaks to defend the community of Idyllwild. It goes basically from the grinding site, down behind Mountain Center, all the way back up to inspiration point, down across ISOMATA (IAA) and up to the Pine Cove repeater, so it’s a fairly long fuel break. That is one of the things that we’ve been in discussion with Chief LaMont about, using that partnership agreement and some of those funds to leverage Idyllwild’s assets to assist with cutting into that fuel source. It’s mutually beneficial for this department and for the Forest Service to get that recut. It’s been about 12 years since we did a reentry. It needs the attention. That’s going to be a big deal for this coming year between the two departments.”
Fogle mentioned his hopes that “the new toys” that IPFD’s new grant will pay for “get purchased and get in place,” especially the skid steer masticator. Fogle noted that USFS also has one of these machines, and the plan is to bring both of them to bear on reentering the Strawberry fuel break.
“Some of that is going to be hand cut and piled. For those of you that have not done that kind of work, that is exhausting hard work. We go in and hand cut and pile...
Idyllwild Water audit shows increase in net position
By David Jerome Correspondent
The board Idyllwild Water District was briefed at their November meeting on the annual audit by auditors with RAMS CPAs. The audit was “unmodified,” and showed an increase in the district’s net position of 5.8% to $13,252,248.
The year’s $2,353,915 increase in capital assets included $773,391 for the Jameson Drive Pipeline, $773,576 for the purchase of the house on Pinecrest, $378,500 for rehabilitation of the Southridge Tank, and $133,924 for two new trucks.
The district exceeded its capital budget of $1,575,000 by $748,905 because of the house purchase from reserve funds. The house is intended as a resi-
dence for the General Manager and as an investment.
The district has no outside debt, but did borrow $2,008,206 short-term from the Wastewater fund for the Water fund, the primary factor in a $1,780,202 increase in liabilities. These funds are anticipated to be repaid during the current fiscal year.
Investments in cash and cash equivalents totaled $2,032,283 on the water side and $1,639,243 on the sewer side. Total reserves were $912,500 on the water side and $318,500 on the sewer side.
Increased water and sewer sales added up to an 8.5% increase in revenue, to $3,971,188.
The one concern that the auditors noted is a perennial one: that the district’s small size makes it difficult to achieve a high level of “segregation of duties.”
Our new parameters, as soon as our NEPA decision gets signed, it’s moving that from a 300-foot-wide fuel break to 1,000 foot. That gives us the discretion, where we can, to widen it even further, which is what we’ve been wanting to do for quite some time.”
“Look at the topography, and the slope, and the amount of work that it takes to hand-cut that much chapparal, and then pile it, and then go back and burn it. It’s a lot of work. We are excited to be partnering with Idyllwild and hope to get a good amount of that work done in this coming year, 2026.”
“I wanted to share that with the board and the community. We need to do a better job of educating the community on how much shared work there is between the two agencies. No single agency can do any of this alone anymore. Thirty years ago, we were all siloed trying to do our own stuff, and it just doesn’t work, it’s too complicated, things go, especially fires grow too fast.
“And so we all depend on each other. We are excited to grow this relationship, and the partnership agreement was a big step forward in how we can leverage each other’s resources moving forward with the community.”
Earlier this month we asked readers to send us photos of Dore Capitani’s work. We have received a handful of submissions, and repeat the call. If you have any of his work, or just have photos you would like to share, send them to: david@towncrier.com. Capitani was a capable welder and if you wish to share photos of his utilitarian projects, those are also welcome. Please include the name of the photograher. Depending on the pace of submissions this could end up in print in December, or towards spring.
THE OBLIGATION SECURED BY THE PROPERTY TO BE SOLD AND REASONABLE ESTIMATED COSTS, EXPENSES AND ADVANCES AT THE TIME OF THE INITIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NOTICE OF SALE IS: $555,400.15 IF THE TRUSTEE IS UNABLE TO CONVEY TITLE FOR ANY REASON, THE SUCCESSFUL BIDDER’S SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY SHALL BE THE RETURN OF MONIES PAID TO THE TRUSTEE, AND THE SUCCESSFUL BIDDER SHALL HAVE NO FURTHER RECOURSE. THE BENEFICIARY UNDER SAID DEED OF TRUST HERETOFORE EXECUTED AND DELIVERED TO THE UNDERSIGNED A WRITTEN DECLARATION OF DEFAULT AND DEMAND FOR SALE, AND A WRITTEN NOTICE OF DEFAULT AND ELECTION TO SELL. THE UNDERSIGNED OR ITS PREDECESSOR CAUSED SAID NOTICE OF DEFAULT AND ELECTION TO SELL TO BE RECORDED IN THE COUNTY WHERE THE REAL PROPERTY IS LOCATED. NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: IF YOU ARE CONSIDERING BIDDING ON THIS PROPERTY LIEN, YOU SHOULD UNDERSTAND THAT THERE ARE RISKS INVOLVED IN BIDDING AT A TRUSTEE AUCTION. YOU WILL BE BIDDING ON A LIEN, NOT ON THE PROPERTY ITSELF. PLACING THE HIGHEST BID AT A TRUSTEE AUCTION DOES NOT AUTOMATICALLY ENTITLE YOU TO FREE AND CLEAR OWNERSHIP OF THE PROPERTY. YOU SHOULD ALSO BE AWARE THAT THE LIEN BEING AUCTIONED OFF MAY BE A JUNIOR LIEN. IF YOU ARE THE HIGHEST BIDDER AT THE AUCTION, YOU ARE OR MAY BE RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYING OFF ALL LIENS SENIOR TO THE LIEN BEING AUCTIONED OFF, BEFORE YOU CAN RECEIVE CLEAR TITLE TO THE PROPERTY. YOU ARE ENCOURAGED TO INVESTIGATE THE EXISTENCE, PRIORITY, AND SIZE OF OUTSTANDING LIENS THAT MAY EXIST ON THIS PROPERTY BY CONTACTING THE COUNTY RECORDER’S OFFICE OR A TITLE INSURANCE COMPANY, EITHER OF WHICH MAY CHARGE YOU A FEE FOR THIS INFORMATION. IF YOU CONSULT EITHER OF THESE RESOURCES, YOU SHOULD BE AWARE THAT THE SAME LENDER MAY HOLD MORE THAN ONE MORTGAGE OR DEED OF TRUST ON THE PROPERTY. NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: THE SALE DATE SHOWN ON THIS NOTICE OF SALE MAY BE POSTPONED ONE OR MORE TIMES BY THE MORTGAGEE, BENEFICIARY, TRUSTEE, OR A COURT, PURSUANT TO SECTION 2924G OF THE CALIFORNIA CIVIL CODE. THE LAW REQUIRES THAT INFORMATION ABOUT TRUSTEE SALE POSTPONEMENTS BE MADE AVAILABLE TO YOU AND TO THE PUBLIC, AS A COURTESY TO THOSE NOT PRESENT AT THE SALE. IF YOU WISH TO LEARN WHETHER YOUR SALE DATE HAS BEEN POSTPONED, AND, IF APPLICABLE, THE RESCHEDULED TIME AND DATE FOR THE SALE OF THIS PROPERTY, YOU MAY CALL (855) 313-3319 OR VISIT THIS INTERNET WEBSITE WWW. CLEARRECONCORP.COM, USING THE FILE NUMBER ASSIGNED TO THIS CASE 139262-CA. INFORMATION ABOUT POSTPONEMENTS THAT ARE VERY SHORT IN DURATION OR THAT OCCUR CLOSE IN TIME TO THE SCHEDULED SALE MAY NOT IMMEDIATELY BE REFLECTED IN THE TELEPHONE INFORMATION OR ON THE INTERNET WEB SITE. THE BEST WAY TO VERIFY POSTPONEMENT INFORMATION IS TO ATTEND THE SCHEDULED SALE. NOTICE TO TENANT: EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 2021, YOU MAY HAVE A RIGHT TO PURCHASE THIS PROPERTY AFTER THE TRUSTEE AUCTION PURSUANT TO SECTION 2924M OF THE CALIFORNIA CIVIL CODE. IF YOU ARE AN “ELIGIBLE TENANT BUYER,” YOU CAN PURCHASE THE PROPERTY IF YOU MATCH THE LAST AND HIGHEST BID PLACED AT THE TRUSTEE AUCTION. IF YOU ARE AN “ELIGIBLE BIDDER,” YOU MAY BE ABLE TO PURCHASE THE PROPERTY IF YOU EXCEED THE LAST AND HIGHEST BID PLACED AT THE TRUSTEE AUCTION. THERE ARE THREE STEPS TO EXERCISING THIS RIGHT OF PURCHASE. FIRST, 48 HOURS AFTER THE DATE OF THE TRUSTEE SALE, YOU CAN CALL (855) 313-3319, OR VISIT THIS INTERNET WEBSITE WWW. CLEARRECONCORP.COM, USING THE FILE NUMBER ASSIGNED TO THIS CASE 139262-CA TO FIND THE DATE ON WHICH THE TRUSTEE’S SALE WAS HELD, THE AMOUNT OF THE LAST AND HIGHEST BID, AND THE ADDRESS OF THE TRUSTEE. SECOND, YOU MUST SEND A WRITTEN NOTICE OF INTENT TO PLACE A BID SO THAT THE TRUSTEE RECEIVES IT NO MORE THAN 15 DAYS AFTER THE TRUSTEE’S SALE. THIRD, YOU MUST SUBMIT A BID SO THAT THE TRUSTEE RECEIVES IT NO MORE THAN 45 DAYS AFTER THE TRUSTEE’S SALE. IF YOU THINK YOU MAY QUALIFY AS AN “ELIGIBLE TENANT BUYER” OR “ELIGIBLE BIDDER,” YOU SHOULD CONSIDER CONTACTING AN ATTORNEY OR APPROPRIATE REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL IMMEDIATELY FOR ADVICE REGARDING THIS POTENTIAL RIGHT TO PURCHASE. FOR SALES INFORMATION: (855) 313-3319 CLEAR RECON CORP 3333 CAMINO DEL RIO SOUTH, SUITE 225 SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA 92108 Pub. TC: December 4, 11, 18, 2025
LIEN SALE 2019 INFI Q50 VIN# JN1EV7AP5KM540566 CA LIC# PLCZ794 LIEN SALE: 12/15/2025 AT: 10:00 AM 2065 ROBERTA ST, RIVERSIDE, CA 92507 Pub. TC: December 4, 2025 LIEN SALE On 12/16/2025 at 691 S. KIRBY ST. HEMET, CA a Lien Sale will be held on a 1990 GMC VIN: 1GKEV18K0LF528548 STATE: CA LIC: 2UNZ292 at 10:00 AM. Pub. TC: December 4, 2025 LIEN SALE On 12/16/2025 at 691 S. KIRBY ST. HEMET, CA a Lien Sale will be held on a 1994 CHEVR VIN: 1GBKP37N2R3320606 STATE: IN LIC: 320606X at 10:00 AM. Pub. TC: December 4, 2025 LIEN SALE On 12/16/2025 at 691 S. KIRBY ST. HEMET, CA a Lien Sale will be held on a 1995 CHEV
SAID SALE WILL BE HELD, BUT WITHOUT COVENANT OR WARRANTY, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, REGARDING TITLE, POSSESSION, CONDITION, OR ENCUMBRANCES, INCLUDING FEES, CHARGES AND EXPENSES OF THE
State budget problems loom ahead
By JP Crumrine Correspondent
On November 19, the State’s Legislative Analyst’s Office released its annual Fall report on the status of the current fiscal year budget and prospects for FY 2026-27 and beyond.
While revenues for FY 2025-26 are slightly better than anticipated in June when the budget was approved, the LAO’s expectations for next fiscal year, which begins on July 1, and beyond, are woefully gloomy.
In June, when Gov. Gavin Newsom signed the FY 2025-26 budget package, the projected deficit for next fiscal year, 2026-27, was $13 billion. The LAO’s current projection is $18 billion and growing in the future.
Although revenue collections from sales and corporation taxes have fallen slightly below estimates, total tax revenue has been buoyed by the recent stock market growth. This is largely due to “. . . enthusiasm around AI [artificial intelligence], which has pushed the stock market to record highs,” the LAO opined.
The LAO does not expect the AI fervor to continue. As the stock market cools, California’s revenue collections will fall since they are very dependent on upper income stack traders.
Unfortunately, unbalanced budgets are not a new dilemma for the Governor or Legislature. For the past three fiscal years, state leaders have had to create budgets while anticipating growing deficits.
Last fiscal year, the legislature had to overcome a projected $55 billion deficit. While the current budget was passed with a $13 billion deficit, the Legislature and Governor had already trimmed it by $28 billion before starting the final negotiations in May.
Two significant programs which have restricted the availability of any small revenue growth are the requirements for Proposition 98, which governs school and community college funding, and Proposition 2, which specifies reserve deposits and debt payments.
The language of these two laws results in consuming nearly all the recent revenue growth. According to the LAO, these programs have been allocated nearly 60 percent of the revenue improvement—$7 billion.
Another major contributor to the $5 billion increase in the current deficit is President Donald Trump’s tax relief, H.R. 1, “Big, Beautiful Bill.” This has added an additional $1.3 billion demand to the State’s coffers to support cuts to Medicaid and SNAP, the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Within two years, the LAO estimates these federal changes will impose annually an additional $5 billion charge to the budget.
Of course, state program costs are growing too. LAO estimates another $2.4 billion will be needed just for current programs, such as retiree health care, pension payments, and statewide administrative costs.
Beyond next fiscal year (2026-27), the LAO is projecting annual state deficits in the range of $35 billion annually due to spending growth continuing to outstrip revenue growth.
While the LAO did not offer specific expenditure reductions or tax increases, it did advise the Governor and Legislature to begin addressing this problem. It will not be easy and certainly will not solve itself and likely only worsen.
The previous budget problems were addressed mostly with temporary, rather than long term, fixes. This included using much of the “Rainy Day” funds, and one time spending cuts, such as furloughing employees.
Interfaith Alliance offers Friday Service of Solace at St Hugh’s
By David Jerome Correspondent
The Interfaith Alliance of Idyllwild is offering a special Service of Solace for those saddened by pain or loss, or moving through darkness during this “most wonderful time of year.” The service will be hosted by St Hugh of Lincoln Episcopal Church.
The service will remind participants that they are not alone and offer “an easing of sadness and a restoration of light.” St. Hugh’s Outside Events Coordinator Mary Knab told the Town Crier this will be the fifth year that the church has hosted the service.
Interfaith Alliance members who may participate include, in addition to St Hugh’s, Spirit Mountain Retreat Center, Temple Har Shalom, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, the Islamic Center of Hemet, the Center for Spiritual Living, the Buddhist community, the Hindu community, the Baha’I Faith and others. Any faith representatives who wish to participate should contact Mary Knab at (951) 634-4048.
For more information, call Spirit Mountain Retreat Center (951) 634-4048 or email info@spiritmountainretreat.org.
Idyllwild Interfaith Alliance Service of Solace, Friday December 5, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. St. Hugh of Lincoln episcopal Church, 25525 Tahquitz Dr. Light refreshments to follow.
By David Jerome Correspondent
Hawkwatch documentary is also call to local volunteers
The Idyllwild Nature Center, with the help of the Friends of the San Jacinto Mountain County Parks, held a special screening of the new documentary film, Hawkwatch, on November 22. The screening was attended by filmmakers Alicia Wszelaki and Matthew Nothelfer and by Hal Cohen, known as “the Hawk Guy.” All three are residents of Borrego Springs, where much of the film takes place. Cohen moved to Borrego Springs in 2001, where he founded a dedicated group of citizen scientists known as the Hawksters.
Also present were two local raptor ecologists and falconers, Jamie Lessie and Derrick Thrasher, who brought Pangi, an American Kestrel, and Rayla, a Harris’ Hawk. The filmmakers noted that this was the first screening with live raptors in attendance.
The film follows Cohen and his fellow “Hawksters” as they document the passage of the migratory Swainson’s hawks through Borrego Springs. There are also scenes from Antelope Valley, were the hawks nest, and Veracruz Mexico, where the hawks funnel through one narrow pathway known as “the River of Raptors,” the largest hawk migration event on Earth.
Cohen and local Hawksters watch for the arrival of the birds, and when more than 100 are sighted on a single day, an email is sent to over 500 birders throughout the southland. Many of them converge in Borrego Springs to help capture an accurate count of the migration.
The film shows how citizen scientists can provide useful data for academics support a conservation ef-
Flu season off to slow start, but may surge quickly
By JP Crumrine Correspondent
Both the California Department of Public Health and the federal Centers for Disease Control report that the current flu season, which began in October, is off to a slow start.
But the latest data indicate it may be increasing, primarily in children, according to the CDC. The CDPH data show increasing hospitalizations in the Bay Area and Southern California. While no pediatric deaths have been reported, Los Angeles County reported its first death from influenza two weeks ago.
However, there are worries that a new influenza virus, which has severely affected Southern Hemisphere countries, particularly Australia, which suffered in 2025 its worst year on record for influenza adjusted for population.
U.S. health officials are concerned this flu strain may come to North America. This could result in another dangerous flu season.
In October, the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners wrote, “While influenza case numbers are soaring, flu vaccination rates have plateaued or are trending in the opposite direction.”
The vaccination rate for children had dropped to one in four. For those over 65 years old, it was only 60 percent, the lowest since 2020.
Through the middle of November, the CDC reported that the flu season was at a low severity.
However, several sources have noted the dominant flu virus (H3N2) has evolved several mutations which could expand its infection rate. The CDC data did indicate that hospitalization rates from influenza infection are starting to increase in California.
Health officials still advise getting a flu vaccine this year, which will also help reduce the need for hospitalization. Slightly more than one-third of children or adults have gotten a vaccine this year, according to the CDC.
fort. With breathtaking views of the desert bloom in the shadow of our snowcapped mountains, it treats the importance of an entire ecosystem that supports the hawks. One volunteer notes that the desert is seen by many as “garbage land” and suitable a location for solar farms. The fields of wildflowers support grasshoppers and grasshoppers that fuel the hawks on their journey form North America to Argentina.
The filmmakers show the dedication of the Hawksters as they scurry across back roads to locate the birds, braving the elements and the unpredictable nature of the birds’ migration. The group, mostly seniors, is aging out, and Cohen would like to retire. New volunteers are sought.
The group, we learned, are hoping to buy or lease a piece of land to make a home for their project. They take inspiration from a group in Veracruz that has created a study station that is also an ecotourist destination for locals, with carnival rides and food vendors in addition to viewing platforms and classrooms for visiting school groups.
The film is not yet available on streaming platforms. The makers explained that they are spending a year taking it to film festivals before arranging wider release. But anyone can sign up to be a Hawkster and receive emails the next time the hawks arrive.
To learn more about the Hawksters visit: https:// www.borregospringshawkwatch.com/
To join in a “Volunteer Orientation Session” and learn more about volunteer opportunities.
Email hawkwatchborregosprings@gmail.com , subject: VOLUNTEER
Hawksters in action
Forestry Board moving forward with Zero Zone regs
By JP Crumrine Correspondent
On Nov. 28, the California Board of Forestry and Fire Protection posted the agenda for its December meetings. The Zone Zero Regulatory Advisory Committee will be part of that session.
The State and Cal Fire call the defensible space within five feet of a home or other structure as Zone Zero (“0”) and it applies only to property owners in State Responsibility Areas and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the Local Responsibility Area, like Idyllwild.
The posted agenda stated the following for the Zero Zone Committee. The first topic will be meeting format and guidance on stakeholder participation. Then the business will be “implementation of an ‘ember resistant zone’ in the first five feet around structures pursuant to Public Resources Code § 4291 and Government Code § 51182.”
The posted information did not include any material to be addressed during the meeting; however, the discussion from the Nov. 3 meeting is a likely guideline.
The presentation included the requirements and changes imposed when Gov. Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 1455. In addition to Newsom’s February Executive Order, AB 1455 set a December 31, 2025 deadline for the Forestry Board to establish regulations to implement Zone Zero.
However, the presentation from Jane Van Susteren, Regulations Coordinator, said that the proposed regulations could be adopted at the December 10 meeting, reviewed, and official by early February.
The Board also learned that the bill provides flexibility to local agencies by considering local variations in fire hazards, geography, development, and other conditions. This includes adoption of alternative practices to those in the state board regulations. But it requires existing structures to comply with Zone 0 upon the sale of the structure (or 3 years, whichever is less).
At the November 3 meeting, the Board discussed four options.
The first option would allow some plants in pots within Zone Zero, but no flammable landscaping materials are permitted, including grass, shrubs, mulches, etc. However, potted plants (under 18 inches tall) would be allowed if kept away from walls, windows, and vents.
Option 2 would permit some plants in pots and low, maintained vegetation. This option also allows low plants under 4 inches tall (like moss or lawns) if kept away from walls, vents, and windows.
The third option would allow some plants, in pots or planted. But it prohibits flammable landscaping materials including dead or dying plants or mulches. Plants 18 inches or less are allowed as long as they are spaced appropriately and not directly beneath, above, or in front of windows, doors, or vents.
The fourth option allows well maintained plants.
The agenda also mentions options for the inclusion of trees within Zone 0. Here only two were mentioned.
The first would allow well maintained trees within the area. Their branches must be at least 5 feet away from walls and above roofs and 10 feet from chimneys. This option would also allow exceptions for trees protected by local ordinance.
The second option would also allow well maintained trees with the Zone, but branches must be at least 10 feet away from chimneys. However, it does not mention the exception for local ordinances.
The Art Alliance Of Idyllwild Brings Christmas Cheer To Its Community
The Mission of the Art Alliance of Idyllwild (AAI) is to “create community through art.” What better way than to offer local parents and students free art kits and materials as a Christmas gift? This idea started during Covid when schools were closed, and students were at home. The first “Giveaway” took place in December of that year as an opportunity to give children something artistic to do during the holidays, hopefully to inspire their creative talents. Parents were so grateful that it became an annual event.
It is through the generosity of the Joseph C. and Ruth Reed Foundation that the AAI can offer such a wide range of age-appropriate art materials and kits. The next Giveaway is on December 5, 2025, in front of the Post Office starting at 3:30pm until all gifts have been given away. There are gifts for children aged 4-7, 8-11 and 12+ with gift wrapping available. Come early for the best selection.
SOURCE: HTTPS://BOF.FIRE.CA.GOV/PROJECTS-AND-PROGRAMS/DEFENSIBLE-SPACE-ZONES-0-1-AND-2
On the Town
Local Dining, Arts & Entertainment
IDYLLWILD, CA
Middle Ridge Winery Celebrates “Middle Ridge Artist Series III – three pines” Rosé Release
Wine Launch Features Local Artists’ Label Designs, Special Discounts & Live Music
Middle Ridge Winery Tasting Gallery will debut its newest Artist Series wine, Middle Ridge Artist Series III – Three Pines, with a special release celebration on Saturday, December 6, 2025, from 2:00–5:00 pm. Inspired by Idyllwild’s natural beauty and creative spirit, the limited-edition 2024 Rosé of Grenache (Santa Ynez Valley) showcases label artwork from seven local artists represented in the Tasting Gallery.
Steeped in forested landscapes and rich mountain history, Idyllwild has long served as a creative muse. The Three Pines collection pays tribute to the town that inspired Middle Ridge founders, Chris and Melody Johnston, to unite their love of wine and art in one welcoming community space.
“We’re all seeking a taste of the good life—those little things that put a smile on our face,” said co-founder Melody Johnston. “This rosé is a celebration of that feeling. We fondly call it a ‘happy wine’—it had us at rosé, and the labels are just so pretty! During the release celebration, we’ll even offer one-day-only special discounts on these beauties.”
Featured Label Artists
The following artists’ works were selected by jury to appear on the new Three Pines series:
• Leslie Brown – But for a Rose (Monoprint)
• Erin Dutton – David (Acrylic Painting)
• Darcy Gerdes – Morning’s First Light (Acrylic Painting)
• Tammy Greenwood – An Illusionary Barren Surface (Monotype & Linocut with Gold Leaf)
• Jessica Schiffman – Road Trip (Oil Painting)
• Greg Stogner – Cochlear (Acrylic Painting)
• Michael Squillacioti – Lily Rock (Acrylic Painting)
Guests are invited to sip, mingle, and meet the artists during the reception, which also features live music by singer-songwriter Francesca Brown (vocals, acoustic guitar) with Jeff Watson (pedal steel). Brown’s “hurts-so-good” style evokes shades of Patsy Cline and Linda Ronstadt, delivering twangy, soulful, vintage Americana.
ABOUT MIDDLE RIDGE WINERY
Middle Ridge is Idyllwild’s very own boutique winery. Its 4,000 sq. ft. Tasting Gallery, located in the center of town, features award-winning wine, rotating art exhibits, and live music in a rustic, elegant environment. With two stories of tall windows, it offers some of the best views and people watching around. Visitors are invited to relax with a glass of wine amidst beautiful works of art designed by some of Southern California’s most talented artists. www.middleridge.com
December 6, 2025 | 2:00–5:00 pm | Middle Ridge Winery Tasting Gallery, Idyllwild
Step into the Idyllwild Town Crier Newspaper Store proudly serving our community since 1946
We carry Idyllwild merchandise, Visitor’s Guides, newspapers, local collectibles, and more. Stop by and see what’s new in the heart of our mountain town!
Located in The Collective behind Raven Hill Bagels 951-659-2145 towncrier.com
Idyllwild's Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony Photos
PHOTOS BY PETER SZABADI
PHOTOS BY PETER SZABADI
PHOTOS BY PETER SZABADI
PHOTOS BY PETER SZABADI
PHOTOS BY PETER SZABADI
PHOTO BY DAVID JEROME
PHOTO BY DAVID JEROME
PHOTO BY DAVID JEROME
Classifieds
Classifieds get results
The
perform a broad range of operational and maintenance duties, including but not limited to water treatment, water distribution, facility operation and maintenance, meter reading, and vehicle and equipment maintenance.
Field Operators are required to participate in a rotating stand-by schedule and must be able to report to duty within one hour of being called out.
Minimum Qualifications: Possession of a high school diploma or GED; Successful completion of a drug screening and criminal background check prior to appointment Possession of State of California Treatment I and Distribution I Certifications; Operator-in-Training status may be considered for highly qualified candidates; Ability to obtain Treatment II and Distribution II certifications within one year of hire
Desirable Qualifications::Demonstrated mechanical aptitude ; Welding experience; Experience operating heavy equipment
The Fern Valley Water District is an Equal Opportunity Employer and offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package. Compensation will be commensurate with the selected candidate’s qualifications and experience.
Applications may be obtained at the District office located at: 55790 South Circle Drive, Idyllwild, CA 92549 or by visiting fernvalleywater. com Applications must be submitted prior to the first review on Thursday December 11, 2025
For further information, please contact the District at 951-659-2200.
For Rent
30’ Fifth Wheel for Rent in Pinyon Pines.. Electricity and water included. $650 per month. Call (760) 6366313
Services
BARTENDER Available for weddings, parties, gatherings of all kinds. 33 yrs experience. Reasonable rates. Regina Caron 951-315-1887.
FIREWOOD Seasoned Pine $350/cord; Hard/Soft Mix $385/cord; All Hard $435/cord; Eucalyptus
$525 Delivery Included (909) 800-1352
Thank You
THANK YOU to the kind person who turned in my change purse to the Idyllwild Pharmacy. Great sentimental value. Thank you! Charlie Anthony
“I can resist everything except temptation.” — Oscar Wilde
December 2025 —Week
Whether you’re selling a car, looking to hire, or advertising a service — the Town Crier classifieds help you reach your local market. Submit yours today: 951‑659‑2145 or towncrier.com FOR ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY
itself out.
April 20 – May
Ease this year’s holiday money pressures by letting your thrifty side guide you as you look for those perfect gifts that typically reflect your good taste and love of beauty.
You’ll have a good handle on potential holiday problems if you delegate tasks to family members, friends or co-workers
be careful to use your energy wisely as you go about making holiday preparations.
There’s good news coming from a most unlikely source. And it could turn out to be one of the best holiday gifts you have had in years. Remember to stay positive. May 21 – June 21
Live Music
IDYLLWILD
Nov. 12, 2025
• Alarm Call — 5400 *** BLOCK NORTH CIRCLE DR at 7:11 p.m.
Nov. 13, 2025
• Unattended Death — ADDRESS WITHHELD at 7:37 p.m.
• Unknown Trouble — 2600 *** BLOCK HEMSTREET PL at 3:53 p.m.
• Area Check — ADDRESS UNDEFINED at 2:18 p.m.
Nov. 14, 2025
• Public Assist — 5300 *** BLOCK PINE CREST AV at 6:34 p.m.
• Public Disturbance — 5400 *** BLOCK TAHQUITZ VIEW DR at 11:48 a.m.
Nov. 15, 2025
• Public Disturbance — 5400 *** BLOCK SOUTH CIRCLE DR at 4:20 p.m.
Nov. 16, 2025
• Assist Other Department — 2500 *** BLOCK ST HWY 243 at 8:22 p.m.
Nov. 17, 2025
• Check The Welfare — 2600 *** BLOCK DELANO DR at 4:25 p.m.
• Fraud — 5500 *** BLOCK DARYLL RD at 10:14 a.m.
Nov. 22, 2025
• Battery — 2600 *** BLOCK DELANO DR at 10:57 p.m.
• Unknown Trouble — ADDRESS UNDEFINED at 5:15 p.m.
• 911 Hangup From Cellphone — 5300 *** BLOCK TOLL GATE RD at 5:10 p.m.
• Narcotics — 5300 *** BLOCK TOLL GATE RD at 4:07 p.m.
• Public Disturbance — 2600 *** BLOCK DELANO DR at 1:31 p.m.
Nov. 23, 2025
• Follow-Up — ADDRESS WITHHELD at 4:42 p.m.
• Follow-Up — ADDRESS WITHHELD at 8:06 a.m.
Nov. 24, 2025
• Shots Fired — ADDRESS UNDEFINED at 9:25 p.m.
• Shots Fired — 5400 *** BLOCK PINE CREST AV at 9:03 p.m.
• Suspicious Person — ADDRESS UNDEFINED at 8:16 p.m.
• Vehicle Burglary — 2500 *** BLOCK ST HWY 243 at 5:52 p.m.
NEWS OF RECORD
• Suspicious Circumstance — 2500 *** BLOCK SILVER TIP LN at 11:49 a.m.
Nov. 26, 2025
• Noise Complaint — 5400 *** BLOCK NORTH CIRCLE DR at 11:51 p.m.
• Public Disturbance — 2600 *** BLOCK DELANO DR at 9:28 p.m.
• Barking Dog — 5500 *** BLOCK STRONG DR at 4:16 p.m.
• Alarm Call — 2500 *** BLOCK CEDAR ST at 2:21 p.m.
• Alarm Call — 2500 *** BLOCK INDIAN ROCK RD at 1:31 p.m.
Nov. 27, 2025
• Suspicious Circumstance — 5400 *** BLOCK SOUTH CIRCLE DR at 7:04 p.m.
• Area Check — 2600 *** BLOCK DELANO DR at 5:39 p.m.
Nov. 28, 2025
• Public Assist — 2500 *** BLOCK ST HWY 243 at 7:06 p.m.
• Check The Welfare — 5300 *** BLOCK PINE CREST AV at 2:42 p.m.
• Found Property — ADDRESS UNDEFINED at 2:39 p.m.
• Burglary — 2600 *** BLOCK FOREST HILL DR at 2:07 p.m.
• Check The Welfare — 5200 *** BLOCK IDYLLMONT RD at 12:34 p.m.
• Barking Dog — 5500 *** BLOCK STRONG DR at 10:57 a.m.
• Suspicious Circumstance — 2500 *** BLOCK ST HWY 243 at 2:54 a.m.
Nov. 29, 2025
• Public Intoxication — 5400 *** BLOCK RIDGEVIEW DR at 8:14
p.m.
• Civil Dispute — 2500 *** BLOCK GLEN RD at 3:33 p.m.
• Noise Complaint — 2600 *** BLOCK ST HWY 243 at 2:18 p.m.
• Public Disturbance — 5400 *** BLOCK RIDGEVIEW DR at 2:12 p.m.
• Alarm Call — 5400 *** BLOCK VILLAGE CENTER DR at 1:34 a.m.
• Public Disturbance — 5500 *** BLOCK CIRCLE WY at 12:09 a.m.
PINE COVE
Nov. 12, 2025
• Trespassing — 5200 *** BLOCK PINE COVE RD at 3:33 p.m.
Nov. 14, 2025
• Vehicle Theft — 2300 *** BLOCK ST HWY 243 at 11:01 a.m.
Nov. 17, 2025
• 911 Call From Business — 2400 *** BLOCK MARION RIDGE DR at 5:41 a.m.
• Area Check — ADDRESS UNDEFINED at 2:04 a.m.
Nov. 18, 2025
• Alarm Call — 2300 *** BLOCK OAK LEAF LN at 2:22 p.m.
• 911 Call From Business — 2500 *** BLOCK MARION RIDGE DR at 12:54 a.m.
Nov. 24, 2025
• Unattended Death — ADDRESS WITHHELD at 2:21 p.m.
Nov. 26, 2025
• Trespassing — 5200 *** BLOCK ACORN LN at 3:31 p.m.
• Check The Welfare — 5200 *** BLOCK ACORN LN at 12:15 p.m.
• Vicious Dog — 2500 *** BLOCK NESTWA TRL at 8:38 a.m.
• Alarm Call — 5300 *** BLOCK FOREST LAKE DR at 2:42 a.m.
Nov. 28, 2025
• Unknown Trouble — 2300 *** BLOCK ST HWY 243 at 11:18 p.m.
• Public Disturbance — 5300 *** BLOCK SILVER FIR DR at 9:30 a.m.
• Public Disturbance — 5300 *** BLOCK SILVER FIR DR at 12:23 a.m.
POPPET FLATS
Nov. 17, 2025
• Brandishing/WeaponPast — 4500 *** BLOCK BIG HORN ST at 5:59 p.m.
• Vandalism — 4600 *** BLOCK POPPET FLATS RD at 11:51 a.m.
Nov. 20, 2025
• Assist Other Department — 4500 *** BLOCK BIG HORN ST at 11:16 a.m.
Nov. 26, 2025
• Vehicle Burglary — 4600 *** BLOCK POPPET FLATS RD at 7:13 p.m.
Nov. 29, 2025
• Area Check — 2200 *** BLOCK SOBOBA RD at 3:34 p.m.
SAN BERDO NAT FORS
Nov. 13, 2025
• Suspicious Circumstance — 5100 *** BLOCK OLD MINE TRL at 5:13 p.m.
Nov. 14, 2025
• Trespassing — 5100 *** BLOCK OLD MINE TRL at 10:15 a.m.
Nov. 15, 2025
• Assist Other Department — ADDRESS UNDEFINED at 6:38 p.m.
Nov. 18, 2025
• Public Disturbance — 6100 *** BLOCK E ST HWY 74 at 8:27 a.m.
Nov. 22, 2025
• Assist Other Department — 5600 *** BLOCK E ST HWY 74 at 10:32 a.m.
Nov. 23, 2025
• Public Assist — 5200 *** BLOCK ROUND ROBIN DR at 2:55 p.m.
• Assist Other Department — 5600 *** BLOCK E ST HWY 74 at 12:49 p.m.
Nov. 24, 2025
• Suspicious Person — 2400 *** BLOCK CANYON TRL at 11:34 a.m.
Nov. 30, 2025
• Suspicious Person — ADDRESS UNDEFINED at 1:43 p.m.
Dec. 01, 2025
• Public Disturbance — 2400 *** BLOCK CANYON TRL at 8:54 a.m.
TWIN PINES
Nov. 15, 2025
• Alarm Call — 4700 *** BLOCK WOODCLIFF DR at 9:23 a.m.
Digital Naturalist and former Town Crier contributor still a “Digital Naturalist ”
By David Jerome Correspondent
Reader Mike Hamilton, thanked us for the recent mention in “Past Tense” of his 1990 laserdisc ecology demo, a virtual nature walk. Hamilton is now a resident of Oregon City, Oregon.
“That project has quite a backstory. In 1984, I created what became the world’s first interactive multimedia nature walk—the Macroscope Ecology Laserdisc. Pioneer Electronics had just invented consumer laserdisc players that could store 54,000 still images and be controlled by a PC. I built the interface hardware, wrote the software, and produced a custom disc combining panoramic “view maps” from 50 Reserve locations with close-ups of wildflowers, insects, birds—essentially an interactive electronic museum.
“This was pre-Internet, when CD-ROMs were rare and computers were painfully slow. The technology may seem quaint now, but the core idea—using computation to make nature more observable and comprehensible—has guided my work ever since.
“When Becky Clark became Crier editor, she invited me to write about these science adventures. My ‘Notebooks of a Digital Naturalist’ column ran for several months describing the technologies and field applications. You’ll find those pieces in (the Town Crier) archives, or feel free to explore my original blog, digitalnaturalist.com, and its AI-assisted evolution, coffeewithclaude.com.”
Grandfathers for Golf
Contributed by Jim Crandall, Grandfathers for Golf Correspondent
Every Wednesday, the Golden Era Golf Course is open to all golfers for $25 beginning at 7 a.m. The course is located at 19871 Gilman Springs Road in San Jacinto. You get a golf cart and 18 holes of golf. The clubhouse is open, and the coffee is hot! This is a great way to enjoy the game of golf while supporting the free program for the kids. The Grandfathers program, which has been active in the Hemet/San Jacinto area for decades, holds teaching sessions all year long. Kids get a free set of golf clubs along with hats and shirts and personalized instruction.
For more information, and to book a tee time, contact Grandfathers for Golf at (951) 604-1312.
Town Crier Membership Application:
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MAILING ADDRESS: __________________________________________________________________ CITY: ___________________ STATE: _______
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I (We) want to keep the Town Crier as a real newspaper for the benefit of our community, as follows: Angels: Other amount unlimited above $1,000 annually – $___________ Heroes: $1,000 annually – $_______ Patrons: $500+ annually – $_______ Sponsors: $250+ annually – $_______ Sustaining Readers: $100+ annually – $_______ All Memberships may be paid for by the month, if you wish, by using a pre-submitted credit card, debit card. with the addition of a 3% fee. Contact the Town Crier office to make arrangements. 951-659-2145.
PLEASE NOTE: The Town Crier is NOT an official “nonprofit organization.” (For practical reasons involving the likelihood of local factional efforts to dominate a nonprofit’s board so as to gain editorial control of the paper, it could not be.) Therefore, your Membership contributions are NOT tax deductable. Members have no ownership or voting interest in the Town Crier. And we know our Members appreciate that we cannot allow the fact of their Memberships to influence or control the paper’s ongoing editorial policies and decisions.
MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS:
• Subscriptions to both printed and online issues of the Town Crier.
• Nice-looking “Idyllwild Town Crier Member” car-window decals, which we very much hope you will display so as to encourage others to join us.
• Recognition of your Membership in the Town Crier, unless you request anonymity.
• Occasional offers, special to our Members, from local businesses.
• And most important and valuable of all: You will receive the satisfaction and pleasure of knowing that you are doing your part to support a real newspaper on our Hill for the benefit of our entire community. Send completed form to Idyllwild Town Crier, P.O. Box 157, Idyllwild, CA 92549.
Checks may be made payable to “Idyllwild Town Crier.” | Contact us at 951-659-2145 or membership@towncrier.com.
Students of the Week
Mary-Alice White, our 7th & 8th Grade English Language Arts
has chosen the following students as students of the week: Kellen Walke consistently shows up to school with a positive and motivated attitude. His genuine joy is contagious and is refreshing in the middle school setting. Kellen's optimistic outlook and determination lead him to have straight As in all of his classes. His effort, academic success, and positive presence set a high standard for others.
Rory Stoye brings an exceptional level of excellence to every assignment she completes. She is respectful, friendly, and knowledgeable in all academic and social situations. She is a helpful classmate to her peers and the definition of "a pleasure to have in class." PHOTOS COURTESY OF IDYLLWID SCHOOL
Creature Corner
Last week in Days of Our Nine Lives, the ARF cats celebrated Suzi's adoption.
Pepper: We had another adoption this past weekend. Darling Suzi was adopted and will be living in San Diego.
Whiskers: How wonderful! She is such a sweet little girl.
Pepper: And this last Sunday saw two found dogs. I just wish people would make certain their dogs and cats are microchipped. And a tag or a phone number written on the collar would be additionally helpful. These poor dogs and cats can't tell us where they live. It is up to pet guardians to take care of this.
Cisco: Hey! Thanksgiving is this week. I'm looking forward to some leftovers. Yummmm
Whiskers: You know, Cisco, Thanksgiving leftovers might not be a good idea for dogs and us cats.
Lilac: I suppose it is more dangerous for dogs as most of us cats stay away from busy gatherings, but lots of dogs want to be in on the action.
Sequoia: They know that under the table and near the trash can they might find delicious bits.
Cisco: I've been told that dogs should NOT have turkey skin, turkey bones, stuffing, gravy, sage, onion grapes/raisins, nuts, mushrooms, corn on the cob, chocolate, candied yams, butter, and bread dough.
Pepper: And although some people think it is funny to get a dog drunk, it is not! It can act as a poison to the poor pup.
Lilac: And cats should not have ham, fatty foods, onions, stuffing, and sugary foods.
Pepper: It is okay for four-leggeds to have light turkey meat, plain green beans, dry mash potatoes (no butter), and a little plain pumpkin.
Lilac: And keep scraps out of reach! Put the lid securely on the trash can.
This week's Creature Corner is sponsored byJaney Mason. Would you like to be a sponsor? Please let us know! Be sure to keep up with the animal antics of Days of our Nine Lives each week. And please stop in to say hello to the entire adoptable cast at the ARF House, 26890 Hwy 243. ARF is open Saturdays 10-3, Sundays 10-2, and during the week by appointment. Please call 951-659-1122.
Past Tense
75 years ago - 1950
The Idyllwild Riding Club was going to present a real “bang-up” Western show at the Idyllwild Stables arena.
70 years ago - 1955
“Music Round the Town,” the second of a series of 14 music books that Max Krone edited and Bee Krone, his wife, arranged, was published.
65 years ago - 1960
Idyllwild residents were rallying to help a family –– two adults and seven children –– whose house on Pine Crest Avenue burned. “While firemen played hoses on the ruins, neighbors invited the victims into their homes for shelter and breakfast,” said the author of the Town Crier article.
60 years ago - 1965
A young rodeo rider living in Mountain Center was termed “The Boy Who Can’t Be Thrown.” “Made about $3,000 in three months and was never bucked off,” the boy said.
55 years ago - 1970
Ending a long dry period, the Hill received 3 to 4 inches of snow. In the higher mountain elevations, the snowfall measured 12 inches.
50 years ago - 1975
County carpenter Frank Prather was blocking out steps leading down to
a centuries-old Native American rock painting in order to make a cast concrete gallery.
45 years ago - 1980
Following one of the worst fire sieges in Southern California history, the forest opened in the San Jacinto mountains and all local firefighting units returned to the Hill.
40 years ago - 1985
Idyllwild Water District was seeking a low- income water conservation loan of up to $1 million from the State Water Resources Department to replace lines.
35 years ago - 1990 Elliott-Pope Preparatory School (now AstroCamp) announced it would be closing after 60 years of preparing students for college.
30 years ago - 1995
In an effort to break away from the Hemet Unified School District, a group of organizers in Anza began collecting signatures to hold a feasibility study for a new school district.
25 years ago - 2000
The Soroptimists were starting their annual Christmas “love train” at Guaranty Federal Bank, which consisted of boxes people could fill with toys or food for needy families.
20 years ago - 2005
Local cross-country runner Franklin Coopersmith made the California Interscholastic Federation Southern Section finals, and represented Hemet High School in the 3-mile race.
15 years ago - 2010
The eagle had landed — and the bear, the mountain lion, the gecko and all the other creatures mantle carver David Roy envisioned and crafted. After more than a three-year wait, David Roy’s “Harmony” began its surprisingly brief and potentially perilous move from its carving site to the final destination in the village center.
11 years ago - 2014
After two years, Idyllwild Fire Protection District commissioners approved an agreement for the local Mile High Radio Club to operate WNKI, the local emergency radio station.
10 years ago - 2015
State Parks rescued six hikers in three separate Thanksgiving weekend
incidents, locating lost and distressed individuals, treating hypothermia, and guiding all parties safely out of the mountains.
5 years ago - 2020
Idyllwild community members created a Holiday Drive-By Decorating Extravaganza to keep spirits high during the pandemic by encouraging residents to decorate their homes for others to enjoy safely.
1 years ago - 2024
At 71, Pine Cove resident Maureen “Mo” Mullins summited Mt. Kilimanjaro after months of intense local altitude training, completing the climb without any altitude sickness and sharing a deeply meaningful journey that included humanitarian work and cultural experiences.
LILAC CISCO
JELLY BEAN
BONNIE 2 SEQUOIA MAPLE
BONNIE 1
Mrs.
Teacher,
Kellen Walke
Rory Stoye
Service Directory
