Thank you to the men that make a difference!
When we talk about community, we’re really talking about the people who shape it—and this month, we’re honoring a group that often shows up quietly, yet leaves a lasting impact: the men in our lives.
Fathers, brothers, husbands, coaches, mentors, friends—so many of the men we know lead not just with strength, but with a steady, consistent presence. They provide, protect, teach, build, and show up in a thousand different ways that often go unspoken.
In this issue, we pause to recognize them. Not just with a tie or the latest gadget, but with something more meaningful: appreciation. For the sacrifices made without complaint. For the long days and late nights. For the quiet support and loud cheers along the sidelines.
We also reflect on what it means to be a good man—not perfection, but purpose. Not bravado, but integrity, and true strength shown in gentleness. We’re inspired by the men who lead with their hearts, who build with intention, and who understand that true legacy is measured not just in success, but in the lives they touch.
So here’s to the men who show up every day and give their best. This one’s for you.
SEAN
ARNETT,
June 2025
PUBLISHER
Sean Arnett | sean.arnett@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Desiree Allen | desiree.allen@citylifestyle.com
SALES DIRECTOR
Sean Arnett
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Desiree Allen
INTERNS
Jaedyn Barajas, Seth Haden
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Ava Sarnowski, Helena Lambert, Desiree Allen
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Shawna Sarnowski, Chelsea Cantwell, Ada Rey
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
inside the issue
Exploring
Respecting
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: I AM A MAN exhibit at the Temecula Valley Museum, honors history, resilience, and the fight for equality. 2: Through powerful imagery and firsthand narratives, visitors are immersed in the lived experiences of those who stood boldly in the face of injustice. 3: Every photo, every quote, every moment captured tells a story of strength, sacrifice, and enduring hope.
Photography by Shawna Sarnowski Photography
CAPTURING LIFE’S GREATEST ADVENTURES
Lifestyle photography for the Temecula Valley and Beyond! Let us capture the special moments in your family’s life! The big game, that special performance or a day at the beach. We’ll capture your Star’s Big Moment!
business monthly
Temecula Valley Balloon & Wine Festival
The Temecula Valley Balloon & Wine Festival Returns June 20–22, 2025! Enjoy breathtaking hot air balloon launches, premium wine tastings from local vineyards, live music, gourmet food, and family-friendly fun. Held at Lake Skinner in Winchester, this iconic three-day event offers something for everyone. Main Festival Hours: Friday: 12 p.m. – 10 p.m. Saturday & Sunday: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. Hot Air Balloon Launches: Saturday & Sunday: 6 a.m. – 10 a.m.
Vendor Info: TemeculaValleyFestival.com/vendors
General Questions: mail@tvbwf.com
Whether it’s for a wedding, anniversary, housewarming, or something special for yourself, our beautifully engraved creations add warmth and elegance to any home
BRENDEN KALFUS
The People's Mayor
Exploring Mayor Brenden Kalfus’ on Leadership, Family, and Local Favorites
ARTICLE BY AVA SARNOWSKI
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHAWNA SARNOWSKI
Born and raised in Temecula, Mayor Kalfus wishes to be a relatable and approachable mayor, someone who makes good change by putting his best foot forward. A former fireman and devoted family man, he’s committed to being a visible, approachable presence—someone who listens, connects, and works for positive change.
“Being visible and engaged with the community is one of the most important parts of my role,” Kalfus says. From his favorite reflection spot—the Mayor’s Balcony at City Hall, overlooking the city —to family dinners at 1909 in Old Town, Kalfus stays deeply connected to Temecula’s pulse.
When dining out, 1909 is a family favorite. Once home to various businesses, the historic space now thrives as a cornerstone of Old Town’s culinary scene. Kalfus is a fan of the Smoked Old Fashioned and Bison Burger.
He also frequently visits Wilson Creek Winery for its family-friendly feel, scenic vineyards, and standout summer concerts. Kalfus and his wife frequent these shows, delighted to see big-name artists perform within a smaller, more intimate setting. The winery is a family-owned and operated establishment, headed by one of the original families that created Temecula’s beloved vineyards.
Whether he’s making decisions in City Hall or soaking in a summer concert with his family, Mayor Kalfus leads with humility, heart, and a deep appreciation for the city—and the people—that shape it.
Temecula Mayor
Bottom Photo: Lunch break at 1909—Kalfus’ go-to for Old Town flavor and family time.
TEMECULA'S
courageous heroes
ANSWERING THE CALL: LOCAL HEROES ON THE FRONT LINES
ARTICLE BY AVA SARNOWSKI PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHAWNA SARNOWSKI
When the Eaton Fire broke out, it moved fast—driven by high winds and dry vegetation—threatening homes near the north end of Pasadena and parts of Altadena. The terrain was difficult to access, and a dwindling water supply put homes at even greater risk. But the fire met a stronger force: the resilience and resolve of the Riverside County Fire Department, including heroes from right here in Temecula.
Among them was Fire Captain Will Smith of Engine 73, leading a strike team of five engines. On board were Fire Apparatus Engineer Gabriel Hernandez, Firefighter II Paramedic Austin Gracia, and Firefighter II Cameron Cable—each prepared to protect lives and property under the most extreme conditions.
Their initial assignment brought them to Valleylights Drive on the fire’s east side, where they worked tirelessly to defend a cluster of homes. Smoke, wind, and embers filled the air— what Gracia described as “a sandstorm filled with embers.” Hernandez called it one of the fastest-moving fires he had ever seen. With visibility low and chaos all around—burning homes, exploding gas tanks—the team pressed forward.
“Our initial assignment was structure defense in Altadena. Once the wheels stopped, we knew it was time to get to work,” Gracia said. When hydrants ran dry, they turned to garden hoses and even pool water—whatever it took to hold the line.
“We passed dozens of burning homes on our way in,” Cable recalled. “We defended a group of about seven homes, constantly patrolling as wind and debris caused yard furnishings and decking to reignite within minutes.”
Cable remembers watching the homes across the street, and up the hill, burn to the ground with ferocious intensity as the wind howled. “It’s hard to describe the emotions that moment left me with,” he said. Later, they were reassigned to the fire’s western edge, near L.A. County Fire Station 12. Two homes on Mendicino Avenue were already consumed. But with the help of an off-duty firefighter and local resident, Darren Lloyd, the team held the line, flowing water until sunrise to protect the surrounding homes.
After a brief moment to refuel and hydrate in Pasadena, they returned to Altadena. Daylight revealed the devastation—charred landscapes, collapsed houses, and a silence that felt surreal. “It felt like we were alone,” Cable said.
When approaching their next assignment, they were waved down by homeowner, Debra Ross, asking for help in saving their home. The team stopped the engine, coming to their aid. Cable tried to extinguish a home on the other side of a fence that had begun to burn. His attempt was unsuccessful, meaning he had to reevaluate the situation by checking the other side of the house to see if the fire was quickly spreading into the neighboring home.
Just as they began to make progress, a nearby telephone pole began to collapse, forcing the crew to withdraw. When they returned two days later, they saw what they had feared—every home past the pole had burned. But miraculously, Ross’s home and others they defended still stood.
“Structure protection in a fire like this is always a team effort,” Gracia said. “We worked closely with CAL FIRE units, local departments, and hand crews. That collaboration kept the fire from jumping into neighborhoods and saved countless homes.”
The destruction was staggering: melted cars, blackened homes, smoke-choked streets. But amidst the loss, residents expressed overwhelming gratitude. And the firefighters remained, continuing to serve long after the initial flames were gone.
“These incidents take a toll,” Cable admitted. “We work long hours under extreme stress—physical, emotional, and mental. But the support we get from the community really does make a difference.”
He also emphasized the broader network of responders: “Without dispatchers, law enforcement, ambulance crews, and support teams, we couldn’t do our job. Everyone who serves plays a role in protecting our communities.”
“I can’t express the appreciation we have. Thank you, but we are just doing our job. Although tough at times, it’s what we do,” Hernandez said.
“We don’t do this job for recognition. We do it because we care about our communities, and we want people to be safe. Every call we go on, we’re putting ourselves between danger and the people we serve. It’s not easy, but we train for this, and we’re proud to stand alongside our brothers and sisters in the fire service. Whether it’s fighting flames or saving lives, we’re always ready to answer that call,” Gracia said.
First responders, Temecula’s protectors, do it because they care about the job. “We want to do the best job for the situation that we are called to. I'm also glad to live in the community that I protect,” Smith said. The men of Engine 73 remind us that courage isn’t the absence of fear—it’s the will to show up anyway, again and again. They don’t just respond to emergencies. They defend neighborhoods, safeguard families, and embody the very best of our community. To the heroes who stand between the fire and our homes—thank you.
Vince Mendoza
While visiting Temecula Wine Country, you can’t have wine without live entertainment–and no one does it better than Vince Mendoza. A solo guitarist and vocalist with more than a decade of performances under his belt, Vince has become a familiar name (and sound) throughout the valley. Whether it’s a weekend crowd at a vineyard or an intimate evening set, his smooth vocals and masterful guitar work bring a vibe all their own.
With a genre-spanning setlist of rock, pop, and jazz favorites, Vince delivers soulful renditions of hits across the decades. From classic 80’s hits by Hall and Oats to Santana’s “Europa,”—a genius of an instrumental composition that Vince
Temecula Guitarist Knows How to Set the Mood
ARTICLE BY HELENA LAMBERT | PHOTOGRAPHY
BY SHAWNA SARNOWSKI
Top: From Hall & Oates to Santana, Vince’s setlist is a journey through three decades of iconic music.
Mid: “I absolutely love what I do”—Vince Mendoza
Bottom: A seasoned professional, Vince performs up to 250 shows a year across wineries, casinos, and intimate venues.
ARTIST’S PALETTE
captures every time he strums his guitar. Let’s not forget soft rock ballads like Lionel Richie’s “Hello” hitting many of us at our core.
His impressive music journey began while living in North Hollywood, where he recorded with Michael Jackson, toured throughout Asia with American pop singer Tiffany, and jammed with Journey’s lead guitarist, Neal Schon. Despite those early highlights of his music career, Vince now calls Temecula home, performing 200 to 250 shows a year at local wineries, casinos and restaurants.
The traveling man recently performed in a country legends tribute show with artists including: Glen Campbell, Dolly Parton, and Kenny Rogers at The Bornemann Theater in San Marcos and the historic Yuma Theater in Yuma, Arizona.
Vince attributes his career longevity to his professionalism, punctuality, and ability to read the room— ensuring a seamless night of music tailored for every audience. But more than that, it’s the genuine connections he builds—with venue owners and audience members alike—that keep his calendar full and his spirit high.
“I absolutely love what I do and I hope that resonates through my music,” Vince said. When he’s not performing, he cherishes his time with his wife, daughter, and beloved horses in Warner Springs, California.
So, the next time you’re sipping in wine country, raise your glass—and let the melodies of Vince Mendoza set the tone for your evening.
A legacy of quality, service, & care.
From
father to son, tradition lives on.
Scott Youngren was born to build.
From the early years of his construction career, working alongside his father Bob he had a deep commitment to doing things the right way.
When Scott founded Youngren Construction in 1992, he brought this same commitment to every client, prioritizing honesty, craftsmanship, and care. Now, Scott passes this legacy to his son, Nash. Day by day, Nash learns the family business, helping his parents serve and support each and every client toward the home of their dreams.
At Youngren Construction, we believe in building more than homes.
We build trust. We build community. And we build lasting relationships, because people matter most. Every blueprint, every beam, every brushstroke reflects our promise to treat your home like our own.
Building well isn’t just what we do, it’s who we are. Let’s build something extraordinary together.
A EL G ACYOFPASSIONANDPUR
NEW GYM CONCEPT WITH INDOOR PICKLEBALL, STATE-OF-THE-ART EQUIPMENT, AND COMMUNITY
ARTICLE BY HELENA LAMBERT
“Don’t follow the money. Follow something that you truly love.”
For Franco Giordanengo, excellence isn’t just a goal—it’s a way of life. Raised in Córdoba, Argentina, by a tight-knit ItalianArgentinian family, Franco grew up with discipline in his bones and a soccer ball at his feet. His passion for movement evolved into a career in professional rugby—until a life-altering injury changed everything.
In 2015, a new chapter began. Franco met his wife Abigail, and together they moved to Temecula with a shared vision for the future. With relentless dedication, Franco became a personal trainer, earning and building a reputation at EOS Fitness and Self Made Training Facility. His dream to own a gym crystallized over breakfast with a client, Eric Curran of West Coast Exotic Cars, who simply asked, “When are you opening your own gym?”
That conversation became the catalyst for Oasis Training Facility, which officially
opened in Murrieta in October 2024. The state-of-the-art space blends elite training with German-engineered Gym80 equipment, private coaching, group sessions, and indoor pickleball courts. But at its core, Oasis is about connection.
In partnership with Oak Grove Center, Oasis recently hosted at-risk youth for a day of workouts, pickleball, fitness and fun, underscoring their mission: give back while helping others move forward.
Franco’s advice for aspiring business owners and entrepreneurs?
“Don’t follow the money. Follow what you love. Stay focused on your passion and your goals. The money will come.”
With a third child on the way and a business rooted in family, faith, and service, Franco is building more than a gym—he’s building a legacy.
Visit: OasisFacilityTraining.com
"Built on faith, family, and grit—Oasis is where the dream finally came to life."
A clean, modern space built for high achievers and go-getters.
ARTICLE BY DESIREE ALLEN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHELSEA CANTWELL
DEALER’S CHOICE
Inside Temecula’s Favorite Speakeasy
Bold, bright, bitter, or smooth—every drink is crafted just for you.
Tucked away in Old Town Temecula, behind rustic wood-planked walls and a soft glow of lamplight, Thompson & Twain Prospecting Co. feels like stepping into another era. Since opening in 2017, this intimate speakeasy has become a favorite among cocktail lovers and in-the-know locals.
Designed by acclaimed tiki architect Notch Gonzalez—whose work includes Smuggler’s Cove in San Francisco and False Idol in San Diego—the space is moody and intentionally small, seating just 45 guests. The vibe is laid-back yet magnetic, the kind of place that draws you in and makes time feel slower in the best way.
For those who crave more than just a drink—for those who seek a moment —Dealer’s Choice is a cocktail ritual unlike any other. Here, there’s no menu to scan, no signature cocktail to order. Instead, guests are invited into a playful, bespoke exchange with their bartender. You choose your spirit—vodka, tequila, gin, whiskey—and answer a few simple questions. Do you prefer citrusy or
From whiskey-forward to citrus-refreshing, there’s no wrong answer at the bar.
smoky? Refreshing or spirit-forward? Allergies? Preferences? Then…you trust.
And that’s where the magic happens.
With practiced hands and a touch of showmanship, the bar team crafts a drink that reflects not just your taste, but your mood, your moment, your evening. Whether it’s shaken, stirred, floral, bitter, or a liquid dessert, the result is a drink that feels uniquely yours—and at $17, it's worth every penny. Feeling adventurous and on a budget? Opt for the $8 twist: a curated version of Dealer’s Choice from a rotating list of preset concoctions.
The doors open at 5 p.m. daily (3 p.m. on Sundays), with seating on a first-come, first-served basis and a two-hour limit per visit. But once inside, you’ll understand why guests need the gentle nudge to move on. “People would stay here all night if we let them,” a bartender laughs. “Trust me—we’ve learned!”
Weekends are lively, with the waitlist forming just before open, especially on Fridays and Saturdays. And yet, despite its growing popularity, Thompson & Twain retains its unshakable sense of cool. It’s not trying to be the loudest place in town— it’s just the one you remember.
“People would stay here all night if we let them,” a bartender laughs.
“Trust me—we’ve learned!”
Whether you’re a Temecula regular or a San Diego visitor searching for something slower, quieter, and a bit more refined, this hidden bar offers an experience that’s playful, personal, and undeniably unforgettable.
So next time you’re wandering Old Town, slow down. Look closer. Behind that unmarked door might just be your new favorite ritual. And if you hear the words, “What’s your spirit of choice?”—you’re in the right place.
Because sometimes, the best stories begin with a drink and a little mystery.
Zarka Cigar Lounge
Where bold flavors, great conversation, and the perfect cigar come standard.
In a world that rarely slows down, Zarka Cigar Lounge offers a rare reprieve—a space where time stretches out, stories linger, and the simple act of savoring becomes a lifestyle. Local entrepreneur Zack Abou envisioned something different—something slower, richer, and steeped in connection. Where seasoned aficionados and curious newcomers could share stories, relax deeply, and enjoy life’s finer things side by side. And in May 2007, that vision came to life with the opening of Zarka Cigar Lounge—a space that would become one of Temecula Valley’s best-kept secrets. More than cigars, Zarka Cigar Lounge is a destination where tradition, taste, and timeless style converge. This hidden gem blends old-world sophistication with modern hospitality—creating a space where cigar lovers, curious newcomers, and refined adventurers gather under one smoky roof.
The rich scent of aged tobacco mingles with notes of leather and cedar, welcoming you into a space crafted for gentlemen who understand that indulgence isn’t about excess—it’s about experience.
The walls are lined with wood-accented charm—home to an impressive selection of premium cigars from around the world.
ARTICLE BY DESIREE ALLEN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHELSEA CANTWELL
At the heart of the lounge is a state-of-the-art walk-in humidor, home to what is now the largest cigar selection on the West Coast. It’s a haven for cigar enthusiasts, with a lineup that includes rare and coveted labels like Diamond Crown, Padron, Opus X, and Liga Privada—a curated collection that reflects Zack’s decades of knowledge and passion for the craft. Whether you know exactly what you’re looking for or need guidance, the team at Zarka is ready to help you discover the perfect smoke.
Conversations spark easily over shared appreciation. Deals are made, toasts are raised, and moments are remembered long after the last ember fades.
The Man Behind the Magazine
Temecula City Lifestyle Publisher Sean shares what it means to show up, build something meaningful, and leave a lasting mark.
ARTICLE BY DESIREE ALLEN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADA REY
You’ve probably seen him around town—maybe shaking hands at a networking event, chatting with a small business owner over coffee, or being stopped mid-walk because someone just had to tell him how much they love the magazine. That’s Sean. He’s the guy behind the scenes, the voice in the room that says, “Let’s make something that matters.”
For Sean, Temecula City Lifestyle is about connection, not just content. "Every page is a story waiting to be told. And every story is someone's legacy," he says. This belief in people fuels his work, making the magazine a platform for impact.
As we celebrate the June Gentlemen’s Issue, it felt only right to turn the spotlight around. Because Sean isn’t just a publisher. He’s a community-builder. A mentor. A guy who shows up, stays curious, and never stops dreaming about what this city—and the people in it—can become.
You won’t find Sean chasing attention, but you’ll always find him paying it forward. Whether he’s encouraging a young entrepreneur, brainstorming with a local nonprofit, or helping a business owner find their voice, he’s doing it with quiet confidence and genuine care.
And in a world that often rushes past the meaningful moments, that kind of presence is rare.
Here's to the man building something bigger than himself, choosing integrity over ego, telling stories not to be seen—but to ensure you are.
JUNE 5TH
Temecula Chamber - State of the City Address
Pechanga Resort | 7:00 AM
Join us for the State of the City Address, where city leaders and community members come together to discuss Temecula’s progress, future plans, and exciting developments. This is a key opportunity to hear about the city’s vision, upcoming projects, and how you can get involved in shaping Temecula’s future.
JUNE 7TH
Doffo Winery
36083 Summitville Street Temecula, CA 92592 | 7:00 PM
Kick off the Summer Concert Series with Boys of Summer, an electrifying Eagles tribute band! Enjoy iconic hits like Hotel California and Take It Easy under the stars. Enjoy a night of music, memories, and summer vibes!
JUNE 20TH
Wilson Creek’s Friday Night Late Nights
Wilson Creek Winery - 35960
Rancho California Rd | 5:00 PM
Dance the night away at Wilson Creek’s Friday Night Late Nights with UNDFYND on June 20th from 5:00pm to 8:30pm. Enjoy wine, delicious food, and live music. UNDFYND is known for their electrifying performances and unique style, featuring a variety of genres ranging from Rock to Funk.
Want to be featured? GET IN TOUCH AT
Experience the Aromatic Breeze of Lavender, Eucalyptus, and Protea in Deluz Valley!
LIFESTYLE | HOME | GARDEN
Join us for our Daily Blooms U-PICK Lavender Season June 7, 8, 21, and 22 at our family farm.
Explore our lush fields of lavender, eucalyptus, and protea while enjoying: • Local vendors • Delicious food • Family-friendly fun • Nature walks in the oak trees • Live music
Our farm comes to life once a year, and we’d love for you to be a part of this vibrant event. For more information and to plan your visit Dailybloomsfarm.com
760.990.9076
