Trump proposes major cuts to environmental programs
By JP Crumrine Correspondent
Earlier this month, President Donald Trump released his proposed Fiscal Year 2026 budget for the Federal government. Overall spending would be reduced $163 billion.
“This is the lowest non-defense spending level since 2017. Savings come from eliminating radical diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and critical race theory programs, Green New Scam funding, large swaths of the Federal Government weaponized against the American people and moving programs that are better suited for States and localities to provide,” according to the accompanying White House press release.
“Defense spending would increase by 13 percent, and appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security would increase by nearly 65 percent, to ensure that our military and other agencies repelling the invasion of our border have the resources they need to complete the mission,” it added.
One of the major guidelines was the
effectiveness and need for federal action according to the President’s May 2 letter to the Senate Appropriations Committee.
“We also considered, for each program, whether the governmental service provided could be provided better by State or local governments (if provided at all). Just as the Federal Government has intruded on matters best left to American families, it has intruded on matters best left to the levels of government closest to the people, who understand and respect the needs and desires of their communities far better than the Federal Government ever could.”
Among the domestic agencies whose budget is expected to be less is the U.S. Forest Service, which will be significantly slimmer if the proposed reductions are approved. Also, all federal wildland fire service activities will be merged into one agency in the Department of the Interior.
The President’s letter to the Senate
See Trump, page A4
Emergency Preparedness Workshop to focus on elders and the mobility impaired
By David Jerome Correspondent
A special workshop is planned for 1 p.m. Wednesday, May 21 at Town Hall to focus on individual emergency preparedness for elders and those with access and functional needs. The workshop will be presented by members of Community Organized Relief Effort (CORE) in partnership with Mountain Communities Fire Safe Council (MCFSC), Mountain Disaster Preparedness (MDP), and Idy Elders and Others.
We spoke with Gabriela Gonzalez, Program Coordinator of CORE’s climate resilience and disaster preparedness program, about the organization and what to expect at the workshop. She explained that the workshop materials were developed in partnership with the state Office of Emergency Services and the Listos California grant program. “The main goal is to reach populations at extreme risk of disaster, and within those populations, people who don’t have access to all the information about disaster preparedness. Our partnerships with fire safe
councils make it possible to expand our message. Callie Squires (MCFSC Executive Director) reached out to us, that’s why we’re coming to Idyllwild.”
CORE is a global humanitarian organization founded in the aftermath of the 2010 earthquake in Haiti, “dedicated to providing immediate relief and longterm recovery support to communities in crisis.” In addition to rebuilding after disasters, they work to prepare communities and help them “become self-reliant, ensuring they are better prepared for the future.” Their website emphasizes their “community powered approach…informed and fueled by local hands.”
At the workshop, Gonzales says that attendees will “learn how to personalize their emergency plan, including communication and evacuation plans. We are also going to be talking about ‘go bags’ and emergency supplies. What to pack in your go bag and what to have in your home in case you can’t leave.” Being prepared to shelter in place can be as important as being prepared to evacuate.
Gonzalez noted that CORE’s work in California started during the pandemic. The experience pointed out that the state is “rich in resources but with great disparities in food and health care access.
See Emergency, pageA4
State Supreme Court denies Oyler’s appeals
By JP Crumrine Correspondent
Last week, the California Supreme Court denied Raymond Oyler’s appeal for a new trial.
In March 2009, Raymond Lee Oyler was found guilty of arson, igniting the Esperanza Fire in October 2006. The jury also found him guilty of the murder of five U.S. Forest Service firefighters. Three died at the fire site and two, including Mark Loutzenhiser of Idyllwild, were taken to the hospital where they died. Oyler’s jury imposed the death sentence. All of the convictions and the death penalty were upheld in June 2009.
In its 140 page opinion, the Court simply concluded, “We affirm the judgment in its entirety.”
The seven justices agreed on all but one issue presented in the defendant’s appeal documents. Associate Justices Kelli Evans and Goodwin Liu dissented on the issue of whether the trial court had appropriately dismissed a prospective juror because of her views of capital punishment.
They felt the trial court had not adequately weighed both her written and verbal responses to the questions regarding making a decision to impose the death penalty. They felt the trial court misinterpreted her opinion and inappropriately dismissed her.
While they concurred in the decisions on all of the other appealed issues, they stated that they “. . . would vacate the judgement of death and permit the People another opportunity to seek the death penalty before a properly selected jury.”
The other issues, which Oyler’s attorney, Michael Clough, raised in his
written and oral appeals were all rejected unanimously. Among these were the following: rejecting the request for a change of venue; replacing the original trial judge; and the admission of several pieces of evidence, such as the Anarchist’s Cookbook, found at Oyler’s home.
A more recent state law was also the basis of an appeal issue. In 2018, the State legislature passed Senate Bill 1437, which amended the State’s definition of murder. Its intent was to ensure that accomplices in a crime in which a murder was committed were not charged unless they were personally involved in the act of murder.
Clough had argued that without proof that Oyler started the Esperanza Fire, he could not be held accountable for the death of the five firefighters. Based on S.B. 1437, he maintained that the jury should have been — but was not — instructed that it could find him guilty of murder “only if” it “is proven” that he was “the actual killer.”
However, the court found that this error was harmless and rejected this issue, too.
In an email to the Town Crier, Clough shared his opinion of the Court’s decision, “I greatly respect the Supreme Court’s work, but I have no doubt once the new evidence I have obtained over the past six years is presented in habeas proceedings in the Riverside Superior Court, it will be clear Mr. Oyler did not start the Esperanza fire (and that he did not start most of the other fires he was charged with starting).”
California law grants an automatic appeal to death sentence convictions and this is the appeal that the Supreme Court ruled on. Clough is preparing a separate appeal of the facts used to try Oyler.
Emma Isaac and Nadia Henry top-ranked seniors at Hemet High. SEE STORY ON PAGE A3
PHOTO BY MIKE ISAAC
Idyllwild Scholarship Fund recognizes local scholars
By David Jerome Correspondent
The Idyllwild Scholarship Fund has been supporting local scholars since 1969. This year, the group awarded $26,5000 to seven local high school graduating seniors. The funds will help them with their continuing education—whether at university, community college, or trade school—and the recognition for exceptional achievements will also distinguish them as they set out into the world.
This year’s recipients were all young women and included, in another first, Hemet High’s Valedictorian and Salutatorian: Nadia Henry and Emma Isaac. The other five winners were Samantha Hoggan, Sofia Ramirez Rivas, Alana Pimental, Calista Nowell, and Lyliann Johnston.
Members of the Idyllwild Scholarship Committee made the presentations: Molly Maples (current ISF president), Shannon Ng, Tim Poseley (principal of Idyllwild School) Janet Keller, Mary Zimmerman, Jayn Davis, and Lindsay Baldwin.
The committee acknowledged the generosity of the local organizations and businesses that funded the scholarships, including the Rotary Club of Idyllwild, Soroptimist of Idyllwild, the Idyllwild Community Fund, PEO Chapter UE, Santa Rosa Pit Stop, Village Hardware, Woodland Park Manor, So Cal Renovations, and Sandlin and Son. This year’s donations also included one in memory of Patty Carratello,R who taught for over 20 years at Idyllwild School.
Normal chance of wildfire in May but increasing in summer
By JP Crumrine Correspondent
The recent spring rains have reduced last month’s extreme drought conditions to severe in much of Riverside County. In May, through Tuesday, rain continued to fall --nearly three-quarters of an inch of rain fell in the northern San Jacinto range (Poppet Flats), a half inch in the Pine Cove and Idyllwild areas, and less than a quarter inch to the south, according to the National Weather Service. Consequently, the higher chance of larger than normal wildfires has fallen to the near normal range for the rest of the month.
Nevertheless, as summer’s heat begins the chances of larger than normal wildfires in Southern California will increase according to Cal Fire’s Southern Operations Predictive Services. Idyllwild set a record on Friday, May 9. The high temperature reached 91 degrees beating the old record of 88 degrees set in 2018. The NWS forecast Saturday to the hottest day of 2025 so far.
“The marine layer is likely to decrease its influence during July and August which would allow for grassy areas closer to the coast to cure. Increased drying across the mountain [Predictive Service Areas] will result in drying of the timber fuel types, as well. These factors contribute to above normal significant fire potential,” said the South Ops May Outlook
Despite winter precipitation, as noted above,
Southern California continues to be in drought conditions, and according to Cal Fire, Riverside and San Bernadino Counties have incurred the driest anomalies.
As summer temps warm, the low-lying grasslands, which have benefited from the recent rains, will cure and present a greater potential for wildfire starts that could move into the local mountains.)
From January through the first week of May, the number of wildfires in California (1,083) has been about 40% greater than the same period in 2024, but 20 % less than the five-year average. However, what is alarming is the number of acres burned. In about four months of 2025, wildfires have burned 61,205 acres compared to only 1,132 last year and 5,000 acres average for the past five years.
AccuWeather predicted that the total number of California 2025 wildfires will between 7.500 and 9.000 and burn about 1.1 million acres. Both greater than last year and the 20-year average.
“There is still strong multi-model consensus that the closer we get to June, the more likely we will see a pretty large shift toward much warmer than average conditions across California and the broader Southwest,” Dr. Daniel Swain, meteorologist and climate scientist at the Institute of the Environment and Sustainability at the University of California, Los Angeles, wrote on April 28 on his website.
Life Tribute
In Loving Memory of Donald Stone Baird & Ann Dee Polakoff Baird
With
Donald, 89, was born in Norwalk, Ohio. Ann Dee 77, was born in Dallas, Texas.
Their paths first crossed in a San Diego classroom, and they married October 11, 1968. They began a remarkable journey of loving and learning together that spanned over five decades.
Donald, a professor of English literature, dedicated 27 years of his career to Southwestern College. Ann Dee, also an educator, taught gifted students for 35 years in the San Diego Unified School District.
Donald, the quiet introspective Professor, and Ann Dee, with her charismatic spirit and humor, complimented each other perfectly. They shared a passion for reading, art and music, Donald with the cherished classics, Ann Dee with the latest psychological thriller filled with twists and intrigue. Donald was an intellect devoted to Ann Dee, and she in turn married her mentor, creating a beautiful balance and unending mutual admiration.
In 2017, after fulfilling careers and raising their two sons, they retired to the quiet charm of Idyllwild, California. They embraced the serenity of mountain life.
They are survived by their sons, Geoffrey Russell Baird and Benjamin Simon Baird, and Ann Dee’s brother, Gary Lewis Polakoff. Their four-legged companions—Bruno, their loyal St Bernard and Emerick, the charming mischievous domestic shorthair cat—were cherished members of the family and a testament of their deep love for animals.
Their memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved them. Family will continue to feel the quiet strength of their unwavering commitment; as Ann Dee would say, “I will be with you in spirit.”
A memorial service will be held Sunday, June 1, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at St Hughes Episcopal Church, 25525 Tahquitz Drive.
ISF recipients Sofia Ramirez Rivas, Calista Nowell, Alyna Pimental, Nadia Henry, Emma Issac, Samantha Hoggan, not pictured Lyliann Johnston
PHOTO BY DAVID JEROME
profound sadness, we share the passing of Donald Stone Baird and Ann Dee Polakoff Baird. Their sudden departure came as an unimaginable sorrow for those who knew and cherished them.
“ASK SPIRITUAL WORKOUT”
By Steven Morrison, M.A.
• Editor’s Note: Spiritual Workout is a practice of these 15 concepts: Be Compassionate • Beliefs Matter • Be Present • Choices Abound • Everything Is Energy • Have an Attitude of Gratitude • Intentions Matter • Judgments Separate Us • Listen to Inspiration • Mind & Body Are Connected • Take Responsibility • The Law of Attraction Is Always On • We Are All Connected • We Are Here for a Reason • We Belong to the Planet, Not the Planet to Us. More at spiritualworkout. com.
Dear Spiritual Workout:
My boyfriend and I are probably going to get married but there is a glitch that may be developing between us. I received a lead on a new job, something that is way better than what I have because it’s more interesting and more about what I really love to do but the pay is not as good. My boyfriend is not supportive of my taking this kind of job but it’s pretty much my dream job being delivered to me and I’m torn about what to do. I don’t want to lose him but I also don’t want to just work for money and I’m confused about what to do.
Dear Reader:
If you are truly confused, I promise you that shiny, clear intentions will pull you out of confusion every time. Intentions are guides that remind of us where we’re going, not where we’ve been; of what we want, not of what we don’t want and “I don’t want to just work for money” is the seed of an intention. But I hear a profoundly problematic issue of compassion inside your question. When we are being compassionate, we champion the lives and experiences of others, especially the ones we profess to love. It is not a loving act to deprive anyone of pursuing their passion(s). As spiritual beings, here on purpose for a purpose, this is the imperative: to follow our hearts. I’d think twice about spending my life with someone who believes it’s OK to curtail my enthusiasm — for anything. But that’s just me.
Dear Spiritual Workout:
I am starting to feel overcome with stress and anxiety. I know it’s something we all deal with and I’m not alone in this. But it’s getting worse and I can’t seem to relax because of intrusive thoughts and fear. Do you have any words of wisdom about this?
Dear Reader:
Indeed yes and I’m going to answer in very general terms because you’ve given me the opportunity to remind readers that “stress and anxiety” are not conditions that are rained down upon any or all of us, willy-nilly. Rather, they are byproducts of certain ways of thinking and certain ways of believing. We see evidence of this when we see people who don’t seem to suffer stress and anxiety at all. If we look at them and think, well, “I’m not like that” or “their life is so easy” or “anxiety is just part of life,” we will continue to forever experience stress and anxiety. Thus, as always, cultivating whatever the opposite is for you (e.g., peace and calm) would be essential. And it would be extremely helpful to learn about using E.F.T./tapping. It’s a highly effective tool that costs nothing and really helps to re-wire your system so that “intrusive thoughts” ultimately don’t intrude. It addresses issues of stress and anxiety on a physical level which is where the re-wiring takes place such that a default of stress and anxiety becomes a default of what you’d prefer like peace and calm. It can be done with some practice and commitment. Like anything.
Dear Reader
Send your questions to dearspiritualworkout@ spiritualworkout.com. (Confidentiality assured.) When you’re ready for more, find cutting-edge counseling Spiritual Workout-style for $50/month at spiritualworkout.com
Years Later, the Fence Is Still Broken
Dear editor:
For several years the state park fence along HWY 243 between the Idyllwild bunkhouse and the entrance to the San Jacinto State Park campground has caved in and is missing much of it that slid down the hill behind where the fence used to be, creating a huge eyesore on our community. I have spoken a few times with those that are in charge or work for the State Park about that fence and what it will take to get it fixed and the answer is “we need to get the ok from CalTrans as it runs along the state highway”.
Sad excuse and it doesn’t fly! Unacceptable: completely! As a member of the local Rotary club I have even volunteered to get our club involved in a solution to assist in any way we could. “I’ll get back to you” has been the response. Well folks, it’s been several years now and what’s been done? NADA! The cave in was partial before the February flooding several years ago, and the flooding made the situation worse.
What an embarrassment that the State Park and CalTrans can’t communicate and get that fence fixed rather than make the entry into our beautiful little town look like the entry to an inner city slum! I’d even contact our county supervisor Mr. Perez however that is like getting through and talking to a deaf ear: he doesn’t want to be bothered: doesn’t care, and has no time for us until he wants something from us!
What will it take to get that fence fixed once and for all?
Chuck Weisbart (Cheeze) Idyllwild
Trump continued from A1
recommending his budget changes stated that the consolidation of Federal wildland fire responsibilities into a single new Federal Wildland Fire Service at DOI, including transferring USDA’s current wildland fire management responsibilities will result in better coordination, create operational efficiencies and reduce cost inefficiencies.
“This new service would streamline federal wildfire suppression response, risk mitigation efforts, and coordination with non-federal partners to combat the wildfire crisis,” commented the International Association of Fire Chiefs.
This recommendation is also consistent with legislation “Fit for Purpose Wildfire Readiness Act of 2025” that Senators Tim Sheehy (R MT) and Alex Padilla (D CA) introduced in February. Senate Bill 441 was referred to the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry. It requires a plan to consolidate the federal firefighting efforts into one agency, a National Wildland Firefighting Service, to be located in the DOI.
Trump proposes to reduce the total Forest Service funding by nearly $1.4 billion, or nearly 16%. The new budget now supports the agency’s revised priorities, which are now timber sales, hazardous fuels removal, mineral extraction, grazing, and wildlife habitat management.
About half of the proposed funding reduction would be for salaries. The justification said, “This is in line with the President’s goal of restoring federalism, by increasing State authority over land management within their borders.”
These funding changes, according to the letter, fully support Trump’s Executive Order 14225, which directs the Secretary of Agriculture to increase timber production on. Forest Service lands.
In a separate announcement affecting 2025 funding, not the proposed budget Brooke Rollins, Secretary of the Agriculture, has provided $23 million in grants to support transporting hazardous fuels – such as dead or downed trees – from national forests to processing facilities.
“President Trump has directed his cabinet to unleash domestic production of our natural resources, including timber. Our nation is blessed with an abundance of resources and there is no reason we cannot responsibly harvest and use these products right here at home, she said in her press release. “Investments like these are delivering on our commitment to protect communities, make forests healthier and more resilient. Removing hazardous fuels not only reduces wildfire risk but also creates opportunities for businesses and workers in the wood products industry.”
The State, Local and Tribal programs were reduced by $300 million. The intent is to shift responsibility to these partners from the Federal government, including funding for their programs. The justification also mentioned oversight issues for the program. “Including allegations of impropriety by both the Agency and State governments.”
Also funding for research of forest and rangelands was cut by $300 million because these projects are inconsistent with increased timber production.
Following the release of the President’s budget re-
Emergency continued from A1
We work in public health and mental health awareness, but the focus is on environmental restoration, disaster preparedness and wildfire mitigation.” This includes home assessments with local Fire Safe Councils like MCFSC, with the goal of helping residents abate and “harden” their homes. The workshop will be informed by the experience of their project in Siskyou County. “It is a small team collaborating with various community organizations to have a big impact.”
CORE also works with local groups to create urban shade and green spaces, and community gardens. Gardens are “a way to connect individuals with the land that we grow our food on. It is so important for people to be in touch with that, as well as the effects that gardening has on our planet and our climate.”
The meeting will be begin with a welcome by Idy Elders and others. Chairwoman Mary Morse noted that this group is an “offshoot of Spirit Mountain retreat. Five years ago, Virginia Crowder asked me if I would facilitate the first meeting.” There will be a presentation from MDP on their role in emergencies, and their Disaster Aid Stations prepositioned throughout the community. MCFSC will provide information on their grant funded programs, mitigation and home hardening. There will be time for questions, and light refreshments will be provided.
Emergency Preparedness Workshop, Wednesday May 21, 1 p.m. Idyllwild Town Hall, 25925 Cedar St. Free rides to and from the event are being offered in partnership with the Forest Folk Idyllwild Shuttle. To secure a ride, please call 951-659-6208 or sign up at www.mcfsc.org/elders.
quest, Rollins, strongly endorsed these proposals. “We have a once in a generation opportunity to save our country from fiscal ruin. President Trump’s budget will put us on the path to reducing our deficit and lowering the national debt,” she said in her press release. “We have to act now. . . At USDA we have already started by eliminating wasteful spending, reprioritizing our services to put farmers first, and cutting red tape.”
Changes at the DOI agencies will also affect management of federal lands and native species.
The Bureau of Land Management’s recommended budget would be $200 million less. This would partially be for the purpose of undoing the lands designated as National Monuments via the Antiquities Act.
The Fish and Wildlife Service would see a $170 million reduction. Much of this funding would have been for grant programs to fund the conservation of species managed by States, Tribes, and other nations. The letter says these funds are “. . . wasting taxpayer dollars on species better managed by local or international interests. These dollars are also duplicative of other Federal programs in USDA and the Department of Commerce. . .”
The National Park Service recommendation included a $900 million reduction for staffing smaller parks with less or little national relevance, according to the President’s letter. These areas are “. . . better categorized and managed as State-level parks. The Budget would continue supporting many national treasures, but there is an urgent need to streamline staffing and transfer certain properties to State-level management to ensure the long-term health and sustainment of the National Park System.”
Other reductions that will affect California’s clean air programs include the cancelation of more than $15 billion in Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act funds provided to the Department of Energy for unreliable renewable energy, removing carbon dioxide from the air, and other costly technologies that burden ratepayers and consumers. The Budget also cancels an additional $5.7 billion in IIJA funding provided to the Department of Transportation for failed electric vehicle charger grant programs.
“This budget outline would dangerously slash funding to protect our air and water, disinvest in the clean energy manufacturing boom that has powered our economic recovery, and raise costs for working families who are already struggling to get by amidst the chaos and uncertainty that this administration has created in just three short months. It would steal more than $1 billion from our National Park Service and outright end the home energy assistance program that low-income seniors and families rely on—as extreme weather and rising temperatures endanger and threaten millions more,” said Melinda Pierce, Sierra Club Legislative Director, in a press release.
The Center for Western Priorities also expressed opposition to the proposed budget. “President Trump and Interior Secretary Burgum just revealed a bleak vision for America’s parks and public lands,” Executive Director Jennifer Rokala said in a press release. “Handing over national park sites to states is a non-starter — states can’t afford to manage them, so the inevitable outcome is the closure, then privatization of our most treasured public lands. If this wishlist becomes reality, Americans will lose access to millions of acres of their public lands.”
P.O. Box 157,
N. Circle Dr. Unit F, Idyllwild, CA 92549. Standard postage paid at Idyllwild, CA. Send subscription and change of address requests to the above address. Please allow up to two weeks for requests to take effect.
It’s fun to play in water, whether at a pool, beach, lake, river or water park, but it is important to know your limits and stay safe. Remember, drowning can occur in less than two minutes.
Swimming Pool Safety Rules
Put a check mark next to the rules that make swimming in a pool safer. Cross out rules that do not make pools safer.
Never go in the water alone. Always be sure an adult who can swim is watching you.
Do not depend on in atable toys or water wings to keep your head above water.
Dive only from a diving board, not the side of the pool.
Don’t crawl or walk on a pool cover.
Stay in the shallow end of the pool if you are not a strong swimmer.
ANSWER: Did you check them all? Great job!
SAFE BOATING WEEK
National Safe Boating Week is in May. If you’re going to be enjoying boating, be sure to check out the great info and activities at safeboatingcampaign.com
Find these things hiding in this picture: a
After nding the hidden pictures, sort each object by the number
Gather some friends and try playing some of these games.
They’re good exercise and a great way to beat the heat!
Water Cup Relay Race
Two-player teams each have a full bucket and an empty bucket. Place the full bucket at the starting line and the empty bucket at the nish line.
The rst team member scoops a plastic cup of water from the full bucket and must walk quickly to the nish line, holding the full cup over their head.
The team member pours the water from the cup into the nish line bucket and runs back to the start, handing the cup to his teammate, who repeats the process.
The rst team to move the most water from start to nish is the winner.
Splashy Search
Water Balloon Freeze Tag
The person who is IT must protect a bucket lled with water balloons. If other players get soaked by a water balloon, even if one drop hits them, they must remain frozen until another player is able to snatch a water balloon from the bucket and unfreeze them by soaking them with it!
Sponge Volley
String a rope between two trees. Hang a tarp so that players can’t see the other side of the court. Have full water buckets and big sponges on each side. Toss soaked sponges over to the other side to see if you can hit the other players.
of
exercise.
© 2025 by Vicki Whiting, Editor Je Schinkel, Graphics Vol. 41 No. 24
Memorial Day Weekend Yard SaleTreasureMap
1
Costco outdoor table and 6 chairs, A large CATIO, quilt fabric and supplies, small furniture, vintage wood desk. kitchen and household items, clothing and more-plus a FREE area with books and treasure
2 Estate Sale. Garage full of tools and equipment; household items and jewelry; 14’ aluminum fishing boat; lots of misc. 7 am to 2 pm Fri, Sat. 5/23-24. 54555 Memory Lane (off Saunders Meadow Rd.)
3 Yard Sale Sat/Sun 5/24 and 5/25 8am-12pm 26800 Meadow Dr. Bikes, Music Gear, Music Toys 4 kids, Telescope, Housewares, Goodies Galore!
4 We’re back & we always sell out on day one! Vintage and MCM Items available, household, kitchen & unique items, and items from our Vintage Store in Rancho Mirage. This is the yard sale you don’t want to miss! NO early birds! 454205 Strawberry Valley Drive. FRI. 5/23, 8 am–3 pm.
5 Yard Sale close to town! 54640 Marion View Dr. Sat-Mon, 5/24-26, 8am-5pm. Men’s and women’s clothing, holiday decorations, bicycles, patio furniture/umbrella, games (electronic and board) household items (kitchenware, bedding, etc.) queen bed w/mattress topper, more.
6 Yard Sale 26190 Hemstreet Place. Motorcycle ramps, scaffolding, tools and other items all in good condition and priced to sell. Fri. and Sat. 5/23-24 after 7am.
7 Idyllwild’s StopLight annual Memorial Day sale! 10-50% off throughout the store. Way too much to list! Fri Sat Sun Mon, 10-6. 25965 Highway 243
8Uttermost Yard Sale at Idyllwild Bible Church, 25860 Highway 243/Pinecrest Ave. Thurs.-Fri. 5/vv22-23, 7am7pm, Sat. 5/24, 7am-2pm.
9Uttermost Yard Sale at Idyllwild Bible Church, 25860 Highway 243/Pinecrest Ave. Thurs.-Fri. 5/22-23, 7am-7pm, Sat. 5/24, 7am-2pm.
10Yard Sale Friday and Saturday May 23-24, 8am to noon-ish. 25455 Palomar Rd. All kinds of stuff! Good Quality! Come See
11Huge moving sale! Quality from every room & garage! 9am-2pm Sat/Sun. Beds, chairs, lamps, tableware,, kitchen, bar stools, décor, bedding, art, huge book collection, cookbooks, bookshelves, stunning canopy bed, picnic tables, bathtub, outdoor furniture & more!25270 Cougar Rd.
12Huge moving sale! Quality from every room & garage! 9am-2pm Sat/Sun. Beds, chairs, lamps, tableware,, kitchen, bar stools, décor, bedding, art, huge book collection, cookbooks, bookshelves, stunning canopy bed, picnic tables, bathtub, outdoor furniture & more!25270 Cougar Rd.
13Estate sale. Hunting trophies/taxidermy; vintage clothing, games, books, other various household items including original Tupperware; furniture; paintings. 10-3 Sat, 10-1 Sun, no early birds. 25461 Shadow Oaks Dr, cross street Golden Leaf Trail.
14Moving. Family garage sale. Furniture, tools, clothing, kitchen, patio furniture. 54935 Strong Dr.Friday and Saturday 5/24-25, 9am-2pm. No early birds.
15Grasons Estate Sale 25229 Fern Valley Rd. Fri-Sat 5/23-24 8:30am- 1:00pm Native jewelry, Kachina dolls, Pottery: Baur, Hull, Fiesta. Antiques and collectibles, furniture, tools, kitchen utensils, We accept cash, credit, debit.
16Estate Sale Fri/Sat 8am-4pm Sun 8am-1pm. 54385 Pine Crest Ave.
Students of the Week
This week we would like to celebrate our 6th graders with the highest GPA.
Congratulations to:
Kayson Adams
Beau Dillon
Makai Githaiga
Hazel Mocerino
Kinsey Kretsinger
Quinnlyn Carpenter
Oliver Paliy
We are so proud of you. Great job Mountain Lions!!
Creature Corner
Last week in Days of Our Nine Lives, the ARF cats celebrated Bella's adoption and Noella, ARF's newest member of its feline community.
Pepper: A rather quiet week we've just had.
Harley: And some very interesting weather!
Marlowe: Did you hear that Harley has a partner in the office now?
Harley: It's true! Of course, I've been the office cat for a while, but now I have a partner.
Noelle: That's right! I'm Harley's assistant, making sure the office is properly maintained.
Harley: Rather unexpectedly, Noelle and I have struck up quite a good friendship.
Noelle: I think we will give visitors quite a good impression. We're both always happy to have visitors.
Marlowe: And did you happen to notice that we now have a mamma cat and her litter?
Noelle: I did! Those five kittens are so very little, and mamma cat is so very, very friendly.
Marlowe: The kittens are only a few weeks old, and if they follow in their mom's footsteps, they will be wonderful family members.
Noelle: Maybe they'll also model their Auntie Noelle's charming behavior.
Pepper: A lot of cats have been adopted recently.
Past Tense
75 years ago - 1950
Mildred Thorn, Theda and Bob Simpson and Emsy Dunn were selected as leaders of the Chamber of Commerce’s July 4th celebration. The event was called Wild Idyle Days.
70 years ago - 1955
The Idyllwild Library moved to new quarters at Fern Valley Corners.
65 years ago - 1960
Seeking seclusion in the mountains, Erle Stanley Gardner, famous writer of mystery stories and creator of the Perry Mason series, bought a home on the Hill.
60 years ago - 1965
The possible inclusion of the Banning-Idyllwild county road in the state’s scenic highway system was advanced when the Assembly Transportation and Commerce Committee approved a bill adding the route to the list.
Noelle: And I believe the kittens, their mom, and I will help continue the good streak.
Harley: And how could anyone resist an ARF cat after being greeted by us?
This week's Creature Corner is sponsored by Lois Shepard. 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.
55 years ago - 1970
One climber was killed and another badly injured in a fall on Tahquitz Rock. Members of the Riverside Mountain Rescue Unit, wearing headlamps to guide themselves, worked 12 hours through the night to bring the injured man and the body of his friend off the mountain.
50 years ago - 1975
It was announced that Eiler Larsen, the famous “Laguna Greeter,” who was the Idyllwild Greeter for a year in the 1960s, had died. A nature lover, he had been active in the Izaak Walton League.
45 years ago - 1980
Riverside County fire officials in Perris formed a new firefighting battalion, headquartered in Pine Cove.
40 years ago - 1985
More than 30 varieties of lilacs were in bloom at the Emmanuel home on Idyllmont Drive. The garden had become an attraction on the Hill and visitors to it were welcomed to tour free of charge.
35 years ago - 1990
The Idyllwild Transfer Station lifted its ban on the open dumping of pine needles and slash.
30 years ago - 1995
A steady, drenching rain caused the sixth-annual Idyllwild Earth Fair to be held indoors.
25 years ago - 2000
Luther Weare, former Town Crier owner, publisher and editor from 1972 to 1978, died at the age of 84.
20 years ago - 2005
The Hill was besieged by the media after Garner Valley resident and investigator in the Riverside County District Attorney’s Indio office, David McGowan, was found dead in his home, along with the bodies of his wife, mother and three children — an apparent murder/suicide.
15 years ago - 2010
A winter of near-average rainfall was not enough to eliminate drought concerns, but was more than adequate to raise fire concerns.
11 year ago - 2014
At least temporarily, a federal judge restricted the U.S. Forest Services Adventure Pass program. On April 28, Judge Terry Hatter of the U.S. District Court in the Central District of California, sided with four hikers who objected to paying
for an Adventure Pass solely for parking.
10 year ago - 2015
The announcement of Conor O’Farrell’s second-place award was made at the California Newspaper Publishers Association Press Summit in Coronado last Saturday. Conor and his wife, Holly, had attended the event.
5 year ago - 2020
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Mara Schoner and Mark Yardas founded the Mountain Communities COVID-19 Mutual Aid group to support Idyllwild residents in need. With the help of volunteers and local organizations, they distributed weekly food boxes and created a network of mutual support during the crisis.
1 year ago - 2024
In early 2024, water usage declined across all three Hill water districts, with Fern Valley showing the largest percentage drop. Despite past increases during drought years, local residents demonstrated continued awareness of conservation, especially following the state’s improved groundwater conditions in 2023.
Churches & Spiritual Centers
ICC staff and Feeding America volunteers Johnny Wilson Stephanie Yost Marilyn Sears Tree Lafo Margie Perales, Roland Perales, Nanci Killingsworth, David Reid-Marr. Seated: Daryl Crocker, Kenny Lee
PHOTO BY DAVID JEROME
By Johnny Wilson ICC Sport Director TEE-BALL LEAGUE
Wednesday May 7th
Last week was opening week of the ICC Tee-Ball League for the little ones, ages four to six.
After a few weeks of spring training, the players, coaches, and spectators were all ready for the opening games of the season at Top Field of Idyllwild School.
Since there were so many young players in this league, Top Field was split into two smaller fields (the “Main Field” and the “Outer Field”) where two games were played simultaneously.
In the Outer Field, it was the Mini Bears (sponsored by Build-A-Bear) going against the Tee-Rexes (sponsored by Wild Imaginations). The players did well, though many it was their first time taking the field, ever.
I will let the coaches describe the atmosphere and who shined bright last week in their very first game of the season.
Here is Coach Cory Lavy of the Mini Bears: “With a natural athleticism, Lilly Lehmann cranked a grounder to the outfield during her very first swing, of her very first at bat! She is quickly going to earn her place as a home run queen!
“With unrivaled dedication to improvement, Olivia Carruth fielded multiple baseballs hit her direction throughout the game! The future is bright for this shining star!
“Jack Baldwin runs the bases like a track! Like a roadrunner sprinting through the desert, Jack leaves the bases in the dust as he makes his way towards home plate!”
Coach Derek McDevitt of the Tee-Rexes also had some great things to say of some of his rising stars:
“Matthew Smith rounded the bases at amazing speed when his fellow tee-ballers hit the ball, showing a great sense of focus and game sense. Matthew just might be the speediest kid on the field!
“Faye Barats had her biggest hit of the season when she stepped up for her second at bat. This tiny slugger is quickly climbing the ranks of the batting order!
Theodore Hopper was a double threat playing
“pitcher” and hitting some blistering balls at the tee.
Theodore is off to a strong start this season, and we’re all looking forward to seeing him out there again!”
Meanwhile, next door at the “Main Field”, it was
the Wildlings (sponsored by Idyllwild Dental) taking on the Super Sonics (sponsored by Dutch Design & Landscaping) in their first game of the season, and for many players, the first game of their young careers.
In the Tee-Ball League we do not keep official score, however we do keep track of those who stand out - whether it’d be athleticism at-bat, being a team player in the infield, having a positive attitude in the dug out, or all of the above. Like Brooks Adams, for example, hitting a 3-run home run in the second inning for the Wildlings.
Or Kevin Freer’s positive energy while running the bases for the Super Sonics.
Here is Wildlings coach Mel Norman about last week’s the opening game: “Everyone was excited and ready to play. 2 players that stood out this week: JJ Ruiz can sure hit a ball, getting his team to score multiple runs. He also played a great defense during the 2nd inning covering first base. Multiple plays he hustled to get the ball and slid back to first base to complete 2 outs for his team. Thea Chapman also has a great swing assisting with another run for the Wildlings. She also covered 2nd base for the first inning and home plate during the 2nd inning keeping a sharp eye on the ball and successfully assisting her team with a great game! Go Team Wildlings.”
MAJOR LEAGUE
On Wednesday, May 7, the Mambas (sponsored by Fairway Foods Market) faced off against the OG Glitter Sparkles (sponsored by Kenyon Electric) in last Wednesday’s Major League match up.
This was a stout defensive battle as both teams showcased their talented pitchers plus a very coordinated group of infielders, making it a challenge to score runs for both teams.
After one inning, it was the Mambas who were up 1-0. After two innings the OG Glitter Sparkles turned the tables with a 2-run home run by Noah Klauk, who gained the one-run lead for his team.
As the sun was setting and the temperatures dropping, the final inning was a scoreless one; both teams held the batters to zero runs. Final score: OG Glitter Sparkles 2, Mambas 1.
Mambas coach Nick Gillot shined the spotlight of one his players: “Luke Olivier is ‘player of the game’s for Mambas. He pitched a complete game allowing only two runs and struck out 5 batters. He also had one RBI.”
On Thursday May 8 the OG Glitter Sparkles were the home team in the second game of their doubleheader last week, taking on the other team who won their
opening game: the Blue Crew (sponsored by Adams Electric), who were the visiting team.
Thursday’s game saw a lot more action from the plate as runs were batted in from the very start. Smart batting and excellent base-running by the Blue Crew put them ahead right away as they reached the “5-run maximum per inning” rule in the first inning. (This rule was created in the previous years to keep the game moving, as it is only one hour long. There is no 5-run maximum in the final inning, which is limitless.)
OG Glitter Sparkles answered with 3 runs, then the Blue Crew scored another 5 runs - we were in the middle of the second inning with a score of 10-3 for the Blue Crew. In their second at-bat the OG Glitter Sparkles scored another 4 runs, narrowing the gap with a the score 10-7 with two outs.
Then Chance Griffin came up to the plate, with the bases loaded. Their star hitter was focused. He swung at the third pitch - WHACK! - a wailing high fly ball into center field that sent the outfielders on a scramble. All four baserunners, including Chance, rounded third base and came into home for the score- a Grand Slam! The crowd went wild.
But wait - the OG Glitter Sparkles already scored 4 runs in that inning - Chance Griffin’s Gland Slam only counted for one run! One dugout was in a state of disbelief - the other dugout was in a state of relief, as the Blue Crew retained the lead 10-8.
Into the final inning we went. With this back-andforth shift in momentum, the Blue Crew could not extend their lead in their final at-bat.
We were at the bottom of the final inning, where the OG Glitter Sparkles needed to bat in three runs for the win. The Blue Crew needed to get three outs to earn their W.
OG Glitter Sparkles continued their excellent batting and brought in two runs. However the third out came before they could score the game-winner.
Final score: Blue Crew 10, OG Glitter Sparkles 10. As the sun set over the mountains, the game ended in a 10-10 tie. What a game!
Here is OG Glitter Sparkles’ coach David Kenyon after the game: “Chance Griffin is our ‘player of the week’. Chance held down four solid innings behind the plate, keeping all the balls in front of him. He got an opportunity late in the game to bring the Sparkles up from behind and boy did he deliver. “Grand Slam Chance” is what we’re calling him now. I’m very proud of that kid - he’s got what it takes.”
Current Standings: Blue Crew: 1 Win, 0 Loss, 1 Tie.
OG Glitter Sparkles: 1 Win, 0 Loss, 1 Tie.
Mambas: 0 Win, 2 Loss, 0 Tie.
