FREE Newspaper Visit us online for breaking news
FREE Online Business Directory
FREE Online Classifieds
FREE Online Archiving Find Us on:
Volume 5
Issue # 8
December, 2015
INSIDE THREE LEGAL CONCEPTS EVERY BUSINESS OWNER SHOULD KNOW
CHRISTMAS DINNER, TREE LIGHTING AND CONTESTS AWAIT US IN DECEMBER
by C.J. Leger Christmas is just around the corner, so it's time to start thinking about how you're going to spend your holiday season around the city. The city has a few community interactions that are highly anticipated and unique for adults, children and families to spend time together and enjoy the Christmas season. The first event in the city is the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, which will be held on December 12 in the roundabout located at the town center. The ceremony will include some activities and will also be the location of the Christmas Decoration Contest announcement, which we will get to further in this article. There is a good lineup of live entertainment for the tree lighting ceremony, which includes the LDS Church Menifee Stake Choir, which will be performing spiritual music to tie the evening together. Also performing will be The Paloma Valley High School Choir and the St.
Vincent Ferrer Catholic Choir. Expect much more live entertainment including Dance 4 Gina, starlight performers and the Santa Rosa Academy Cheer. Family fun will also be ramping up at the event with $5 wristband for kids at the Snow Play Zone. Santa will be present and available to take pictures with children, and the whole family can visit the elve’s craft workshop. The event will also be playing a live holiday movie outdoors via projection screen. If you're wondering about food, there are arrangements for food vendors to be onsite and also craft vendors for souvenirs and any other gifts you’d like to purchase at the event. The event starts at 4:00 pm and ends at 8:00 pm, so be sure to come early. Toy Drive - If you’re not donating to Toys for Tots this year, consider bringing unwrapped toys and non-perishable items to the tree lighting ceremony, as there will be a toy and food drive for those less fortunate. For more information, you can contact the event organizers at (951) 723-3880. This year, Menifee is running their Christmas home decoration con-
test again. It was such a great hit last year, that it came back by popular demand. The premise of the contest is to decorate the outside of your house and lawn as best you possibly can and email photos of your home, your address and description to the event organizers. The winners will be announced on December 12 at the tree lighting ceremony in the city center, and the homes will be judged between December 3rd and December 10th. The winners will also be officially recognized on December 16. Also on December 12, the Hope Christian Church is hosting a Christmas dinner at Ethan A. Chase Middle School. You still might be able to catch the event if you're also attending the tree lighting ceremony, as it will take place between 5:15 pm and 9:30 pm, but you'll miss dinner, which takes place at 6:00 pm. The event will include, of course, a dinner and commence with some games that focus on clues in order to build interaction between the guests at each table.
Scan with your smart phone app and see what happens.
CITY NEWS
LOCAL BUZZ
PARK APPROVED FOR MENIFEE WITH DEFERRED DELIVERY DATE
Page B7
LOCAL NEWS
More and more individuals are giving up high-paying positions to start their own small businesses, seeking the opportunity to be their own bosses, have total control for their achievements, and have time for their families. Some say they are tired of long commutes, office politics, stressful and demanding deadlines, which leave no time for family life and extra-curricular activities. For many, the ability to live a balanced life surpasses the quest for money. Page B8
Menifee Wildcat Junior All American Football Micro D-2 team has come a long way this season. The team totals 24 boys with 19 of them who never played tackle football before. The team has over 500 yards rushing from the running back’s.
WHAT’S BUZZ’N PHOTO PAGE
Happy Nails & Spa A staple in our community, Happy Nails, is offering an affordable spa package deal for just $29. The recipient will receive an allin-one inclusive deal that awards them four services at one of their locations: an incredible relaxing foot massage, hot oil for a manicure treatment, their choice of an array of nail polish pigments, and the golden deal - a full European manicure and pedicure while sitting in one of Happy Nails’ self massaging relaxing chairs. Happy Nails does offer gift certificates, so be sure to clip our coupon and include that with your gift certificate for your recipient to get the most out of their spa treatment service. Visit Happy Nails & Spa at: 30134 Haun Road, Suite 440, Menifee, CA 92584 Page A2
FINANCIAL NEWS
STEP OUT AND STEP INTO YOUR OWN BUSINESS ON THE MARK WITH ROBBIE MOTTER
Page A4
HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS THAT CAN’T GO WRONG by C.J. Leger Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year, a time for family, for home cooked meals and the joy of friendship. But sometimes Christmas can be a huge headache when you have to decide on gifts for every special person in your life. Thankfully, there are quite a bit of ideas around Menifee that can't go wrong with either gender or relationship. Spa Packages When in doubt, you can never go wrong with a spa package. Spa packages include nail salon services and massage/ facial parlors, and we have a few coupons offered in our newspaper that expire at the end of December. So if any of these catch your eye, be sure to cut them out, as they can make great stocking stuffer gifts for loved ones.
Most entrepreneurs or small businesses don’t have a team of lawyers following them around to help make every decision. Just as entrepreneurs need to know the basics of accounting and marketing, they also need to understand the basics of business law to avoid the potential liability and costs that follow costly litigation. Page B1
The Menifee Buzz invites amateur and professional photographers to Take Your Best Shot. We are especially interested in images that showcase the beauty of nature in our area, peak action in sports, dramatic or touching moments of local citizens and striking compositions featuring local landmarks. Each month the Buzz selects a Photo of the Month contest winner - submit your photo for a chance to win!
Page A7
BIZ BUZZ
DON’T WAIT FOR HOLLYWOOD HOLIDAY SPENDING - CAN HERE THEY COME! LATER! What a joy to see so much talent “I want to wait…” HELP TEACH in our own town, here in Menifee So often I hear this and Murrieta. A few weeks ago, statement coming out CHILDREN I was offered a position with of someone’s mouth Murrieta Buzz to write ABOUT MONEY Menifee in the Entertainment Section of but really what they
Page B4
their paper.
PageA3
are saying is “I need an excuse at this moment.” Page B4
See page B7
TECH NEWS HOW TO KEEP YOUR SEXY SELFIES (AND OTHER SENSITIVE FILES) SAFE IN THE CLOUD As some starlets found out the hard way, just because you upload private files to the cloud it doesn’t mean they’re safe. Computer systems can (and will) be broken into, and that cool, convenient cloud can quickly become the storm that rains on your parade.
Page B3
Page A 2 Continuation page A1
CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS THAT CAN’T GO WRONG
by C.J. Leger Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year, a time for family, for home cooked meals and the joy of friendship. But sometimes Christmas can be a huge headache when you have to decide on gifts for every special person in your life. Thankfully, there are quite a bit of ideas around Menifee that can't go wrong with either gender or relationship. Ikon Salon If you or someone you know is into style and fashion, you'll know that the current trend is all about Brazilian style and techniques to keep up with beauty regimens. The most talked about Brazilian styling topics are full Brazilian Blowouts inclusive of light highlights to complete the look. Ikon Salon has an incredible deal on Groupon to get a complete Brazilian Blowout and trim for just $99. The salon has also opened up two more offers, which are great for the holiday season and affordable. For $59 you can gift someone a haircut, deep conditioning, blow dry and partial highlights at Ikon Salon. We all know someone who's been thinking about redoing the style of their hair, but either hasn't had time or hasn't found a good deal. This would be the perfect gift for them. Their final deal on Groupon includes a Balayage for $79. These services have a value of up to $275; and remember that Groupon does have the option to gift these
Menifee Buzz—www.menifeebuzz.com deals to friends and family, which makes this an excellent way to shop local and avoid the ruckus of holiday shopping. You can visit Icon Salon at: 27701 Scott Road, Suite 301, Menifee, CA 92584 5 Star Nails & Spa Getting your nails done is always a treat for women. 5 Star Nails & Spa offers gift certificates for the holiday season, and all year round, with great deals to accompany them. If you purchase a $100 gift certificate, you will get 10% off of your complete spa experience with a minimum purchase of $55, and you even have the option to break up that $100 into separate gift certificate denominations that can be gifted to multiple people. Visit 5 Star Nails & Spa at: 26900 Newport Road, Suite 107, Menifee, CA 92584 Home & Family Security One Alarm Give your loved ones the gift of security with a Security One Alarm system at a discounted rate. For a limited time on Groupon, Security One Alarm is offering 3 home security options with values up to $925 with savings of up to $776 through Groupon. The company is also offering the monthly subscription rates at a lower price for Groupon customers. Options available include the Simply Security Package with color touch screen keypad for just $49, the Ultimate Home Security Package with the same color touch screen keypad for $99, or the $149 package, which includes the Ultimate Home Security Kit with image sensor and the touch keypad included in the previous two packages. These prices include the cost of installation. Visit Security One Alarm for more information at: 29875 Menifee Lakes Drive, Menifee, CA 92584 Mulligan Family Fun Center If you're unsure about what to get someone for Christmas, why not try getting a complete family gift that everyone can use? Mulligan Family Fun Center has a great deal available for $14.99 that includes unlimited use of the center’s activities. The all-day pass package is good for rock wall climbing, laser tag, go karts, mini golf, the Kiddie Korral and the rookie go kart activities, but you have to purchase the package before December 24th at 4 p.m. to get the deal. So act fast. Visit Mulligan Family Fun Center at: 24950 Madison Avenue, Murrieta, CA If none of these feel right, you can always opt for a visa prepaid gift card. With a visa prepaid gift card, the recipient can do anything from shop for clothes, start up a new movie or music streaming subscription, shop online or eat at any restaurant of their choice. Merry Christmas and happy shopping!
Menifee Buzz—www.menifeebuzz.com
Art
TALENTED ART TEACHER JIM TAYLOR RECEIVES AWARD
By Arts Council Menifee Jim Taylor uses his creative energy to produce works of art that are strongly influenced by the French Impressionists. “I like to blend my images with color and texture so that most come out of the background as a sort of surprise,” said Taylor, who has lived in Menifee since 2007. “I believe the word is pareidolia. An example of this would be looking at the clouds and seeing or recognizing shapes.” He joined Arts Council Menifee earlier this year and although it is not the first art group he has belonged to, it is one that
has generated the most involvement. And it is this engagement that led to Taylor being chosen as Arts Council Menifee’s Artist of the Month for December. “The board of trustees selected Jim not only for his artistic talents, but for his willingness to roll up his sleeves and assist behind the scenes to set up our gallery receptions and events. He’s a real team player,” said Bill Zimmerman, Past President of the art organization. Born in Oakland on Thanksgiving day, Taylor has lived in California since 1961. His family lived at various military bases while his father served in the U.S. Navy. Taylor was a self-described “band geek” and played trumpet in high school and French horn in college. He was also in choir and
Page A 3 played tenor banjo with a Jazz Festival camp in Mammoth Lakes. “Music has always been part of my life as it is with almost everyone,” said Taylor. “With that in mind, we all seem to have some connection with the arts in an emotional or thoughtful way.” Taylor has created a series of artworks with dance and music themes and plans to do more. He has painted horses and landscapes, too. Taylor is also a photographer and has taught the subject at Calvary Murrieta Christian School. “Mostly, I’m painting. But the desire for photography is still there and if I can capture something and then paint it, all the better,” he said. Taylor uses photographs for ideas, applying his paint style to the work. “I work to create something other than classical/photographic work,” he said. “Most artists are trained to do realistic work and then we have to break from that to create our own style. So if I get too realistic, I paint over it.” Taylor remembers copying cartoons such as Huckleberry Hound when he was young and his mother had him take some painting lessons. He took art classes in high school and majored in art in college. “I work in just about every medium except welding and bronze. Not that I can’t do those; I’ve just not had the opportunity,” Taylor said. Taylor is glad to be part of Arts Council Menifee, which he feels is “supportive of all the artists.” He has worked hard to devote much more time to painting in the past year because he felt he had to prove himself. “There is an old saying: ‘Those who can, do, and those who can’t, teach’ and that just makes me boil a little bit because I’m a teacher,” said Taylor, who has taught all aspects of art to students in grades 6 through 12. “So when I wasn’t teaching it, I wanted to prove I could do it.” He currently works as a substitute teacher for Nuview School District. He spends time with his wife of 42 years and their five grandchildren, who live nearby. Taylor has a gauge for his art. “If I walk into the room where the painting is and it makes me smile, I know I’ve done it right. If I look at the work and I see something not quite right, it needs a repaint,” he said. “I hope anyone who has my art smiles the same way. It should make you feel something.” For more information, please visit www. artscouncilmenifee.org or call 951-2902781.
HOLLYWOOD HERE THEY COME! What a joy to see so much talent in our own town, here in Menifee and Murrieta. A few weeks ago, I was offered a position with Menifee Murrieta Buzz to write in the Entertainment Section of their paper. I was thinking who should I feature in my first article? Then, snapping my fingers, I got it. Last year, I posted on my facebook page KJ KARAOKE NICOLE that I was going to perform along with other artists at the Menifee Arts Showcase. Artists, musicians, singers, dancers and authors perform for the public outdoors at the Countryside Marketplace founded and chaired by Linda Denver. There, we had different stages throughout the Shopping Center . Mary Cregger contacted me inquiring about it, humbly mentioning that her kids were pretty talented. After talking with her for awhile, I could see some very good potential and I gave her the contact number. Long story short, they did perform at that event. Her son Michael, 15 years old, asked his parents for a guitar last Christmas and his wish came through. Within 3 months, he was performing in public. He never had lessons, he learned to play on his own. Cameryn “ Cami ”, 8 years old, is a very talented young singer “with braces”, cute as a button, taking lessons since the tender age of 4 with Tiffany Taylor who teaches singing, acting, theater, and piano lessons. I had read throughout the year that they were performing here and there, winning contests, etc. Cami even got to perform for Latoya Jackson recently. Cami is so tiny, you would not think of her singing Pat Benatar Song “Hit Me With Your Best Shot”. She is very comfortable on stage prancing around like a star! Upon getting this position as a reporter to feature our local talent, I called up their mother Mary Cregger asking her if I could feature them in our local paper. She was thrilled. Coincidentally, Cami and Michael were to perform at a Fundraiser in Hollywood November 15th later that week. This event was taking place at the historical landmark the Avalon Theater in Hollywood, the stage where Judy Garland, Bob Hope, Bing Crosby, and Frank Sinatra performed, to name a few. That's where the Beatles had their very first concert in the U.S. What a thrill, Hollywood here they come, yes, Cami and Michael performed at the the 2nd Annual Beautiful Soulz Music Awards, produced and directed by Brandy Sanders with the Nu Skool Sings Old School, which she is the producer as well. This is a non-profit organization benefiting local and grassroots charities around the world. Here, we have a brother and a sister performing at this stars studded event. In attendance were Lenny Williams, Marla Gibbs “ Louise ” from the Jefferson's show. Also John Sly Wilson, entertainer, writer of numerous movies, composer, winner of the BMI Award for his song “Suit and Tie”, with Justin Timberlake, etc. Cami and Michael paid tribute to Chuck Berry as they rocked the house with their electrifying rendition of Johnny B Good.This was followed by Michael doing a solo, setting the place on fire where he got a well deserved standing ovation after he paid tribute to Jimi Hendrix with “Purple Haze” and then performed a bombshell “Star Spangled Banner” finish. The crowd went wild. Way to go Michael! We also had a star Maya Navarro, from Murrieta, doing a sensational rendition of “Let's Hear it From The Boys” from Deniece Williams’ release in 1984. I must say, I could just see her on “The Voice” or “American Idol”. Maya is so talented! Nu Skool Sings Old School, what a concept, our young kids learning songs from the legends, our new generation, our future legends. Nicole Farrell Reporter
COUPON SPOTLIGHT
Menifee Nafe meets the 2nd Wed of each month 11;30 am at Merna's Cafe & Grill Merna's Cafe & Grill 26850 Cherry Hills Blvd, Menifee
Success Up Menifee NAFE Affiliate Network NAFE Meets the 2nd Wed of each month at 11:30 am
Meetings have a dynamic speaker, time for networking and the opportunity to meet other dynamic Women. Call Robbie Motter 951-255-9200 or rmotter@aol.com to RSVP or for information
ow?
Does your computer run sl Freeze up? Display Errors? Pop-ups?
Call Now: 951.643.7663
FOR MORE LOCAL NEWS & EVENTS VISIT US AT: WWW.MENIFEEBUZZ.COM
Page A 4
Menifee Buzz—www.menifeebuzz.com
MENIFEE WILDCAT JUNIOR ALL AMERICAN FOOTBALL MICRO D-2 TEAM HAS COME A LONG WAY THIS SEASON By Sharon Otis The team totals 24 boys with 19 of them who never played tackle football before. The team has over 500 yards rushing from the running back’s. Head Coach, Matt Narcisse of Menifee is very proud of his boys and how far they have come in such a short time. His philosophy includes teaching his boys to keep their heads up, be ready for the next play, instilling confidence as a person and a player. He states that it takes something special to be a football player. It takes heart and the ability for a player to test himself beyond what he thinks is possible. Coach Matt
to share time with his son, and pass on the love of football with his son. He feels team has come a long ways from when the team started. The boys hardly knew each other and started out timid. Now they play harder and have learned to work together. Burton feels it to be beneficial to teach the fundamentals of the game, teaching that hard work will pay off whether its football or any other area in life. Jared Wells, assistant coach also has a son on the team. This is his first year as a coach for JAAF. Wells has been playing and coaching basket ball and softball for several years. Wells played
and his wife, Rebecca raise their 2 children in Menifee. Matt went to the local Paloma Valley High School as well as Mt. San Jacinto Jr College where he played football. His father, was an inspiration to him. As a youngster Matt and his father worked together breaking down film and Matt learned a great deal as his fathers assistant coach. Jim Burton, assistant coach with Matt resides in Menifee and has been in the surrounding area for 12 years. Burton played football at Perris High. He started coaching his step son’s team 10 years ago and started coaching with his younger son’s team this year with the JAAF. Burton is inspired to coach,
football, basketball, and baseball for Norco in his high school years. Married with 2 kids Wells enjoys Menifee as a home for his family. Wells would like for the players to walk away with basic skills in football as well as learning to be part of a team. Coach Nate is a brother to one of the players and enjoys helping his brother learn as well as all the other boys. The JAAF Wildcat Micro D-2 team made it to playoff ’s and faced Corona in their first play off game. Although they did not walk away with a win they had an amazing experience and gained new friends, knowledge, and a spirit of team work.
Menifee Buzz—www.menifeebuzz.com
Page A 5
WEATHER
Can you find the hidden words? They may be horizontal, vertical, diagonal, forwards or backwards.
BLIZZARD, BREEZE, CHINOOK, CIRROCUMULUS, CIRROSTRATUS,CIRRUS, CLOUDY, COLD, CUMULONIMBUS, CUMULUS, CYCLONE,DOLDRUMS, DRIZZLE, DRY, FAIR, FOG, FREEZING, FROST, HAIL,HARMATTAN, HEATWAVE, HOT, HUMID, HURRICANE, LIGHTNING,MILD, MIST, MISTRAL, MONSOON, NIMBUS, OVERCAST,PRECIPITATION, RAIN, SHOWER, SIROCCO, SLEET, SLUSH,SNOW, STORM, STRATUS, SUNSHINE, THUNDER, TORNADO, TYPHOON, WIND, ZEPHYR.
DECEMBER'S FUN FACTS: 1. 2. 3. 4.
The Kangaroo Rat can last longer without water than a camel. If you keep a goldfish in the dark, it will eventually turn white Taphephobia is the fear of being buried alive! According to scientific studies, a rat's performance in a maze can be improved by playing music written by Mozart. 5. 'Vodka' is Russian for 'little water'. 6. Jackie Chan’s mother was an opium smuggler and his father was a spy. 7. Jimmy Hoffa's middle name is, appropriately, Riddle. 8. Lindsay Lohan was approached to star in The Hangover, but she declined because the screenplay "had no potential". 9. Mexican Jumping Beans jump because of moth larvae inside them. 10. The three wealthiest families in the world have more assets than the combined wealth of the forty-eight poorest nations.
Page A 6
Menifee Buzz—www.menifeebuzz.com
Local MEET LAURA JORGE A GREAT LADY
By Robbie Motter I always say: “It’s All About SHOWING UP” and because Laura Jorge showed up to a Nafe meeting, she met lifetime friends that took care of her for over 9 years. Nafe women are women of heart and that is why I want to share this SHOW UP story that helped this woman have lifetime friends and saved her from being on the streets of Menifee when she became ill. Laura used to work for Fox Entertainment in Burbank, retired early and was living in Los Angeles. Her apartment was sold for condominiums. She did not know where she would go as she had very little funds. Since she was a Nafe member attending a LA Network, I helped her get a home in my mobile home park. She had a small retirement and did computer-related work. She had been an Executive Secretary to one of Fox’s top executives and was very good in using the computer. This helped supplement her income. She made and sold beautiful jewelry. She volunteered at
Crystal Cathedral and at many local events in Menifee, in addition to Nafe, like the Menifee Valley Chamber, the GFWC Menifee/Sun City Women’s Club and more. When she moved, she transferred her Nafe membership to the local group in Menifee. Nine years ago, Laura had a stroke with no insurance. Nafe members helped Laura to be treated at the hospital. She was in the hospital for almost 30 days, completely paralyzed on one side and unable to do anything for herself. We got her a wheelchair. A Nafe member who was a former Nursing and Hospital Administrator, knew someone who owned several nursing homes in Hemet who would take her. Since Laura
had no money and had to use what little she had, the nursing home owner said not to worry. She has a home here. Another Nafe member who owned a Medi-Cal Consulting business, jumped in to help us get her Medi-Cal papers completed and approved. Laura was not able to stay current with her mail for almost 2 years. Days were spent going through all the mail and writing letters to the companies telling them she had no money to pay anything. ALSUP is a company that helps people receive Social Security Disability payments. Doing Laura’s paperwork was a challenge. We found along the way she was not an American citizen. While she had come to this country from South Africa on a student visa, she did have a bona fide Social Security card and had worked for years in America. After much communication and data back and forth, she was approved and got her Social Security Disability payments. We handled all of her finances through a Power of Attorney. We now had the funds to start paying the nursing home each month. A few years later the nursing home was sold, and the new owners were wonderful to Laura. They loved her. In the beginning, she could get around in a wheelchair and loved to play Bingo and was always winning. We called her the Bingo Queen and that made her laugh. But as the years progressed, she was not able to do much and spent most of her days in bed and
back and forth between Hemet Hospital in ICU and the nursing home. Several Menifee Nafe members would visit her at the nursing home and to the hospital when she was admitted. We were her only family. She has a sister in South Africa, but she was not able to come. A few months ago we put Laura on Hospice. Over the years she had gotten worse with diabetes, heart problems, could not stand, or dress herself. She had to be fed through a feeding tube. Laura died November 18, 2015 at the age of 63. Her burial was planned years ago. She wanted to be cremated and her ashes sent to her sister in South Africa to be scattered over her parents' grave. We called and gave her sister the news and got her address to ship the ashes. If Laura had not "SHOWN UP" at a Nafe meeting, she would have had no one and what would have happened to her? Laura could have ended up on the street, since she had no family of her own, never married or had any children. Her Nafe sisters were important to her, they were her family. They went through a lot to help her. Nafe women care and help one another professionally and personally. Remember, no matter what organization you belong to, they are there for you too!
For more Local News visit us at: www.menifeebuzz.com
Menifee Buzz—www.menifeebuzz.com
Page A 7
Buzz’n Around Menifee Photo of the month To have your picture en tered for the photo of the month please send your picture with your cont act information to Melanie@ menifeebuzz.com . If yo ur picture is chosen you will receive a prize an d be showcased in the next issue of the Menifee Bu zz.
www.MenifeeBuzz.com
Page A 8
Menifee Buzz—www.menifeebuzz.com
About Us ~ Buzz Bylines
Serving the communities of Menifee, Quail Valley, Romoland, & Sun City
Call us @ 951.588.5558 Editor - Jocelyne Valois info@MenifeeBuzz.com News - news@MenifeeBuzz.com
PRODUCTION Yanik Gozlan - yanik@menifeebuzz.com ART DEPARTMENT Elmir Isakovic - info@menifeebuzz.com SALES Frank Mateo- Account Manager sales@MenifeeBuzz.com
The Perris Valley Chamber of Commerce and the Menifee Valley Chamber of Commerce kicked off the 2015-2016 Student of the Month program in September 2015. The students are nominated by their teachers and staff at their respective school sites and are chosen for their character, integrity, love of learning, ability to persevere and overcome challenging circumstances, community service, and how they make a difference on their high school campus. October’s students and their families attended a breakfast sponsored by the Perris and Menifee Chambers of Commerce along with local businesses and organizations. Principals and teachers from each high school shared stories about the students and they each received certificates of recognition, numerous gifts, congratulations and encouragement from local, county, state
model student at Perris Lake. According to Principal, Dean Hauser, Allen has overcome some major obstacles and is now a student who performs at the highest levels. He helps others and seeks no reward in return. His teacher, Ms. Gonzales, states that he is very mature, classy, and dignified all without saying a word and has become a positive presence on campus. Allen plans to either become an iron worker, like his father was, or attend the University of Colorado Springs and major in architecture. Jocelyn Munoz is Heritage High School’s Student of the Month. According to Principal, Frank Arce, Jocelyn is currently in the running for valedictorian as well as one of the 38 FFA students who will be in Washington D.C representing the Southern California region. This demonstrates her perseverance, since at the age of 11 her family moved to America to escape the regional violence in Mexico. She was so determined to learn English that she would stay up until 2 am doing homework with her Spanish/ English dictionary and now that hard work has now paid off. According to her teacher, Mr. Perotti, Jocelyn has taken every AP class possible and has succeeded in all of them. When he asked her how she does it with so much that she is involved in, she replied “when everybody else is asleep, I put in the work.” Jocelyn plans to attend UC Berkeley and major in mathematics with an emphasis on education. She would like to return to Heritage to
WRITERS Robbie Motter , Writer news@menifeebuzz.com
Natalie Gozlan—Kidz Buzz Natalie@menifeebuzz.com
SOCAL MEDIA networking@menifeebuzz.com
DELIVERY Tyler Andersen—Distribution Manager
The opinions expressed in the Menifee Buzz do not necessarily re�lect those of the staff. Advertisements are accepted, and believed as factual. It does not constitute endorsement of its sponsors or the products offered. We will not knowingly publish fraudulent, libelous or misleading advertisements. We reserve the right to reject any advertisements and editorial we �ind unsuitable to the format of the publication.
Buzz Us
Check out how social we are, plus get Breaking News, and Events in Menifee:
Pictured are October’s Students of the Month; Dr. Jonathan Greenberg, Superintendent, Perris Union High School District; Michelle Runnells, Menifee Valley Chamber of Commerce; Allen Flock, Perris Lake High School; Angel Carrillo, Perris High School; Jocelyn Munoz, Heritage High School; River Recatto, Paloma Valley High School; and Cindy Espinoza and Matt Johnson, Perris Valley Chamber of Commerce. and federal dignitaries. Paloma Valley High School’s Student of the Month is River Recatto. Principal, Don Williamson, describes River as the perfect student. He has all the qualities including high academia, varsity basketball player, and is just a really nice guy. River’s teacher, Mr. Lundstrom, also commented on his academic performance as well as his contribution to the community, including being involved on the Youth Advisory Committee with the City of Menifee. River shared that he attributes his success in education to his parents, who are both educators, and the lessons they taught him on the importance and value of education and hard work. River started these practices at a young age while working to overcome a severe speech impediment and it has continued to serve him well. River plans to attend UC Riverside and major in bio medical science to become a surgeon. Perris Lake High School’s Allen Flock is October’s Student of the Month. Allen’s journey towards graduation has not been an easy one. He admits to struggling through school, especially after the death of his father. However, after some time Allen made the decision to better himself and not worry too much about the things he couldn’t control. Since then he has worked hard to become a
teach math and make her own teachers proud. Perris High School’s Student of the Month is Angel Carrillo. Angel participates in yearbook, journalism, and FFA where he shines as an outstanding role model. According to Principal, Nick Hilton, Angel’s teachers describe him as disciplined, respectful and hard-working. He serves as the Section President for the Riverside FFA Chapter as well as Southern Region Vice President. And, according to his teacher, Ms. Thomas, many students look to Angel for leadership and guidance which makes him a very positive influence among his peers. Angel shared that he credits his mom for him being the person that he is. Her example of hard work and never give up attitude has helped him not only in his own life, but has encouraged him to help and influence others to bring out their full potential. Angel plans to attend either Cal Poly San Luis Obispo or Chico State and major in agricultural education to become a teacher. All of these students demonstrated a desire to work hard and have a drive to exceed others and their own expectations. The Perris Valley Chamber and the Menifee Valley Chamber wish them the best in their endeavors. If you wish to learn more about the Student of the Month Program, please contact founder, Sally Myers at (951) 506-8024.
Menifee Buzz—www.menifeebuzz.com
CHOWSOME IN MURIETTA I guess you can't win them all, up until now, I have reviewed restaurants that I either liked or that were recommended to me by others. So far I have not been disappointed. Well, not so much this time. I know a food critic reviewing a buffet is a bit like taking the Goodyear blimp to a Pop Warner football game. The reason I decided to review this buffet was because I discovered Chowsome buffet located at 24640 Madison Ave Murietta over a year ago and thought it was great. With a variety of sushi, a Korean barbecue, a desert bar, and numerous other typical buffet offerings. I had recommended it to friends with good feedback. Lately however, those same friends have been telling me how disappointed they were. It had been quite a while since I had been there so I decided to see what had happened to my favorite buffet. The first thing I discovered was a pleasant surprise. The last time I was there, the lunch buffet was priced at $12.95 with a $2.00 discount available for seniors. Now it was down to $8.95. A good start right? After entering the restaurant
I realized why they had to lowered the price. I ordered my diet drink grabbed a plate and went to fill it up. My first stop was the Nigiri area. To my dismay out of six plates only one had any Nigiri on it the rest were totally empty. Moving on I proceeded to the sushi rolls. Again half the plates were empty and the remainder were about the size of a quarter. I thought I would have something else and wait for them to prepare more sushi and moved on to the other varieties of Asian food. Things did not get any better. Some dishes once again were empty others cold and nothing that looked appetizing. Even the steamed rice pot was empty and remained so for our entire lunch. So sad. I found myself wishing they would raise the price and in turn raise the quality. I would have to say, this is one place that won't be seeing me again. Even after mentioning some of the problems to management we were more or less ignored. A shrug of the shoulders and a that's the way it is, look was the response. It really hated to write this article because I had once truly enjoyed eating there and worse yet I had recommended it to friends. I wish I knew what had happened and hope they will wake up before it's to late.
Page A 9
Page A 10
Menifee Buzz—www.menifeebuzz.com
FREE Newspaper
Menifee Buzz—www.menifeebuzz.com
Page B 1
Visit us online for breaking news
FREE Online Business Directory
FREE Online Classifieds
FREE Online Archiving Find Us on:
Volume 5
THREE LEGAL CONCEPTS EVERY BUSINESS OWNER SHOULD KNOW Most entrepreneurs or small businesses don’t have a team of lawyers following them around to help make every decision. Just as entrepreneurs need to know the basics of accounting and marketing, they also need to understand the basics of business law to avoid the potential liability and costs that follow costly litigation. As a lawyer and business owner I have experienced the struggles of business on both
Issue #8 sides. Most business owners are not also business attorneys, so they end up feeling lost and uninformed when making decisions. You don’t need to go to law school to be a successful entrepreneur. As most things in life you must build a good community or team. In addition, any successful business person should not be afraid to ask questions whether it’s legal or otherwise. However, all business people should have a general understanding of the following when operating or starting their business. 1. Vicarious liability Most business owners understand they’re responsible when employees cause harm to themselves or others while on-the-job or while using company equipment. That would make common sense, but did you
know that employers can be liable for harm caused by an employee anywhere at any time if that employee caused harm within the course and scope of their employment. Course and scope of employment is a fairly broad brush and could encompass a wide variety of situations. Asking your employee to stop at the UPS store or run an errand is the common example. This is a good situation is where having a good general liability policy would help protect your business. In addition, you should have a defined and concise job description contained in your employee manual that clearly defines the scope of employment of each employee. 2. Overtime and break rules Working long hours for little pay is a part of life at a startup or most small businesses for that matter. Most business owners have the general understanding that working more than 40 hours entitles the employee to overtime. Did you know how that is calculated? There are certain rules covering different types of employees. It is even more important to understand that you understand the law concerning rest periods/breaks. You should know when each employee is entitled to breaks (rest periods) and build your business in a way to allow those rest period to take place.
December, 2015 is merely an agreement, it does not need to be in writing (with exceptions of course). However, you know verbal contracts are only worth the paper they are written on. When it comes to building and operating a business you should always put it in writing. Understanding the value and nuances of contracts is essential to being successful. In conclusion, don’t be scared in operating your business; just be aware of how the law interacts with your daily operations and planning. Every business owner needs to be prepared for common legal situations. Extended, expensive litigation can drag down even the most promising business and the moral. Educate yourself on relevant laws as they pertain to your business. A moment of preparation is much less expensive than obtaining legal education via a long and protracted legal dispute. I wish you all success in the upcoming year!
RAXTER LAW Jeremiah Raxter, Esq. 27851 Bradley Rd, Suite 145 Menifee, Ca 92586 951-226-5294
3. Contracts As you may know, a contract is a legally enforceable agreement between two or more people. As the statement says the contract
HOLIDAY GIFTS WITH A LASTING IMPACT
If you’re in search of meaningful gifts this holiday season, consider giving a gift that has a lasting impact. Here are some ideas for thoughtful presents that never need to be exchanged or returned and are rewarding to give. Make a charitable donation. Family and friends who are passionate about social causes will appreciate your donation on their behalf. Many charitable organizations are savvy about holiday giving and publish “holiday catalogs” that describe gift levels in terms of how they further the charity’s work. Most charities have an online presence, making it easy to do your holiday shopping from the convenience of home. Keep in mind that a gift of this kind may be tax deductible as well. Give tickets to a charitable event. Buying and gifting tickets to charitable events are another way to make your holiday shopping do double duty for the causes you and your loved ones care about the most. A gift of this sort provides a night on the town that may include enter-
tainment, a silent auction, dinner, and drinks. Give socially conscious stocks. Select socially responsible companies that could positively impact the community or make a difference in an initiative that’s important to your family member or friend. You’ll be investing in a good cause while giving a gift with the potential to pay dividends and grow. Fund an education savings plan. The cost of attendance at a fouryear college has skyrocketed. Students (and their parents) will appreciate any amount that can be applied toward tuition, room and board and textbooks. Education expenses paid directly to an institution may be tax deductible. For grandchildren who are still years away from attending college, consider contributing to a 529 savings plan in the student’s name. Contributions to a 529 savings plan are made with after-tax dollars. Buy gift savings bonds. A savings bond is a great way to help someone establish a financial safety net or start saving toward a larger goal. The U.S. Treasury sells bonds online and requires buyers to set up an account and link it to the recipient to make a gift purchase. You’ll have the option to print a gift certificate or simply have your gift delivered electronically. Don’t underestimate the value of a cash gift. The gift of cash is universally appreciated and gives recipients the freedom to save or spend according to their needs. The 2015 and 2016 gift tax exclusion allows individuals to give up to $14,000 per person annually without the recipient having to treat your gift as income on their tax returns.
Explore all of your options for charitable giving. Talk to a financial advisor to learn more about making financial gifts to the people, organizations and causes you care about. Jeremy Taylor is a Financial Advisor with Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. in Menifee, CA. He specializes in fee-based financial planning and asset management strategies and has been in practice for 11 years - To contact him, please call 951-679-2222, 29826 Haun Rd #206, Menifee, CA 92586.
http://www.ameripriseadvisors. com/jeremy.i.taylor/profile/ Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates do not offer tax or legal advice. Consumers should consult with their tax advisor or attorney regarding their specific situation. Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2015 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved. File # 1331561
Page B 2
Menifee Buzz—www.menifeebuzz.com
DOUBLE DECEMBER MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
MENIFEE UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT The Menifee School District was formed in 1890 when, on March 31, 1890, William W. Snoddy gave one-and-a-half acres for the new school site on the southwest corner of Newport and Bradley Roads. This 1890 building had a spacious entry on the north, a large glass room on the west, another large room on the east and a stage in between. The Vale Union High School used this east room beginning in 1891. The first Paloma school was located on the north side of Scott Road about one half-mile east of Briggs Road. This building was later moved east to one of the Holland places on Scott Road. In the diary of George Davenport the new Everton School is mentioned. The school was opened September 14, 1891. It is believed that the name Everton was changed to Antelope. Antelope School was used until the highway was improved to make Highway 395. The Antelope building was later moved to Briggs and Holland Roads where it fell into disrepair. No classes were held at this site. The second Paloma school was located at Garbani and Leon Roads in the early 1890s and then
WELCOME NEW MEMBERS AMERICAN SPIRIT HOTDOGS IRMA MANZANARES REAL ESTATE CHERISHING THE SCENT Independent Scentsy Consultant BELLEZZA SALON ALL ROADS CONVERGE CREATIVE SHIFT MEDIA
moved to the Antelope site. Antelope and Menifee graduates attended Perris Union High School. For a short time Antelope children attended the Menifee School on Newport until the new Menifee School on Garboni (now Garbani Road) opened in 1952. The Menifee and Antelope School Districts unionized in December 1951 and resolved that the new school district should be called "Menifee Union Elementary School District," according to the Menifee school board minutes dated December 7, 1951 Menifee Union School District is opening their 10th elementary school in August of 2016 in the south/eastern portion of Menifee. South of Scott between Leon/ Winchester. As the District continues to expand in number of students, from 300 students in 1981, to 9,740 today, the Curriculum and Instruction Department has made every effort to ensure a world class education for all MUSD students. Upgrades in Technology have been made to keep pace with the ever-growing demands of a tech savvy generation.
Crossfit 951
"We work hard, play hard" Crossfit 951 located at 29723 New Hub Dr. #G in Menifee opened in 2009. Owner Rachel Bruin has always been active but tore her ACL playing soccer and during physical therapy she was introduced to Crossfit. She started training under the previous owner and when the opportunity to purchase Crossfit951 presented itself she jumped at the opportunity. Crossfit951 is a High Intensity Functional Fitness program centered on meeting the goals and needs of customers. The number one misconception about Crossfit in general is intimidation. The hardest part about Crossfit is walking in the door. All workouts can be scaled to the athletes ability regardless of age or physical ability. Everyone does the same work out but scaled to your personal needs. Crossfit951 offers an average of 8 classes per day and is open after work hours, on weekends, and offers childcare. Stop by and check them out! You wont be disappointed!
Visit us at: www.menifeevalleychamber.com
I wanted to personally reach out and write a letter to let you all know how much I appreciate each and every one of you and Thank you for your membership and continued commitment to the Menifee Valley Chamber. If you have been here a while , you have realized what a great place Menifee is with rich history and a bright future. If you're new, I hope that you're looking forward to discovering what Menifee and the Chamber of Commerce has to offer. Your membership is not only a key tool to grow a successful and plentiful business, but you are also investing in your local economy and the surrounding region. With Members like you, we are able to provide a sustainable business community. as well as foster growth and positive change. The Chamber strives to help you utilize your membership to the fullest, and add continued value. I encourage you to reach out, and give your ideas, thoughts, or concerns as I am here to help contribute to the success of your business. I would like to Thank the Board of Directors for their hard work, dedication, and continued support. They are truly an amazing group of individuals who are committed to the business community of Menifee and the surrounding areas. This year has brought on many new changes and we look forward to the upcoming year with all of you, our members. Happy Holidays, and I wish you all a wonderful and prosperous New Year! Michelle Runnells Executive Director
LAPTOP LUNCH SERIES Thursday, December 3rd World Pay Credit Card Processing TopicSmart chip, how it works, online payments, finding your effective credit card rate.
Thursday, December 17th The Health Insurance Agency Topic- How to afford health insurance for your employees and offer it to your employees
Thursday, January 14th US Bank Topic-Business Banking and how to get a Business Loan
2014—2015 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Andrew Vallejos - Chair Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians
Yanik Gozlan - Director Menifee Buzz
Vicki Carpenter - 2nd Vice Chair Coldwell Banker
Margarita Castillo - Director Castillo Heating &Air Condion/ Margarita Style
Karen Nolan - 1st Vice Chair LCL Realty- Property Management Adam Eventov - Secretary Well Said! Communications
Darci Castillejos -Treasurer French Valley Cafe' Tony Amatulli -IPP Amatulli Auto Parts
Cynthia Nemelka - Director RE/MAX Diamond Realty
Debbie McClure - Director Edward Jones Investments
Stu Blaze - Director New York UpperCrust Pizza
Jeremiah Raxter - Director Raxter Law
Rick Riegler - Director Lake Elsinore Storm Baseball
Dorcas Shaktman - Director Assistance League of Greater Temecula
NEW ADDRESS: 29737 NEW HUB DRIVE, SUITE #102, MENIFEE, CA 92586 - PHONE NUMBER: (951) 672-1991
SHOP LOCAL & SAVE - WWW.SHOPINMENIFEE.COM
Menifee Buzz—www.menifeebuzz.com
Biz Buzz
what they are saying is “I need an excuse at this moment.” 2016 will be here momentarily, are you ready or are you going to wait? (Just kidding you can’t) Wait to hit your business goals? Wait to take the next step? Wait until…? It’s time to start preparing for the New Year and start by setting your goals. Not New Year By Brian E. Walker, CEO, MBA, resolutions, not someday when LUTCF, DTM Jupiter, Uranus and Earth align, “I want to wait…” So often I actual goals and rungs to reach hear this statement coming out for in your business. of someone’s mouth but really A quote going around Facebook
DON’T WAIT FOR LATER!
Page B 3
today is: “Good things come to those that wait WORK THEIR TAIL OFF.” Fitting for current events and with all things considered going on in the world. The Economy is recovering (so ‘they’ say), gas prices are down and it’s the dawn of a new year. Why not take advantage of your time and talents and start to put the pieces together for your life puzzle. Make the move today, physically or mentally, but take more than a moment to plan, act, and attack your goals with no limitations to hold you back. The regular excuses don’t apply today, because tomorrow is a new day and there isn’t time to wait for the New Year. Take your business Up One Level.
Brian Walker 27070 Sun City Blvd. ~ Menifee, CA 92586 Office (951) 934-0338 Fax (951) 672-3427 CA License #0D76384
HOLIDAY SPENDING - CAN HELP TEACH CHILDREN ABOUT MONEY
During this holiday season, you’ll likely be spending money, in various amounts and in various ways. And you can use this experience to teach your children about money management. Here are a few ideas for doing just that: Stick to a budget. Tell your children you’ve set aside a certain amount of money for gifts and holiday events, such as hosting parties, and that you won’t exceed it. And if you have saved money throughout the year in a special holiday fund, let your kids know about that, too. This information should help impress upon them the importance of sticking with a budget and saving for a goal. Discuss credit and debt. Ideally, you won’t have to use your credit cards to an unusual degree during the holiday season. If you do, though, explain to your children that using a credit card is not the same thing as “free” money, and that your goal is to pay off the card as soon as possible, so that you won’t have to pay even more for your purchases in the form of interest payments. Compare short- and long-term goals. Explain to your children that your holiday spending is the result of having saved for, and met, a short-term goal, but that you are also saving for long-term goals, such as retirement. Depending on the age of your kids, you might want to go into somewhat more detail, such as describing, in general terms, the different ways you save for the different goals. For example, for your holiday spending, you might be drawing on money from your checking account – or, as mentioned above, a holiday fund, possibly kept in a low-risk, liquid vehicle – while for your long-term goals, you might be relying in part on your employer-sponsored retirement plan, such as a 401(k). The key point to get
across is that you have various financial goals in life with various means of working toward achieving them. Introduce your children to investing. If you’ve already brought up the topic of saving for long-term goals, why not take it a step further and give your children a doorway into the investment world? Specifically, consider giving them a few shares of stock, possibly in companies with which they are already familiar, and help them follow these stocks. One way of giving stocks to children is through a custodial account, which can be opened under the Uniform Transfer to Minors Act (UTMA) or the Uniform Gifts to Minors Act (UGMA). Keep in mind, though, that once your child reaches the age of majority – usually 18 or 21 – he or she gets full control of the money in the account. Plus, your gift is irrevocable. Be generous. If you’re going to make charitable gifts, let you kids know about it – or even let them help pick the charities. It will show them that one purpose of wealth accumulation is to give back to the world. By providing some financial education to your kids this holiday season, you’ll be giving them a gift that can last long after the festivities have ended. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.
Page B 4
Menifee Buzz—www.menifeebuzz.com
TECH TALK
Hello, my name is Yanik Gozlan from The Computer Repair Experts and I write “Tech Talk”. My goal is to give tips and information on the latest gadgets or common issues you may have with your technology. I have been helping people solve their technology problems since 2002. With multiple certifications and over 10 years of experience in this industry, I will try to educate and share common interests that most of the surrounding areas are talking about.
HOW TO KEEP YOUR SEXY SELFIES (AND OTHER SENSITIVE FILES) SAFE IN THE CLOUD As some starlets found out the hard way, just because you upload private files to the cloud it doesn’t mean they’re safe. Computer systems can (and will) be broken into, and that cool, convenient cloud can quickly become the storm that rains on your parade. Everyone has sensitive files they’d like to keep private: medical records, love letters, tax documents, and, yes, maybe even the occasional image of you or a loved one au naturale. The problem is, once you upload files to the cloud, you give up some control over who can see them. But there are some steps you can take to keep your most private data safe from prying eyes. All it requires a little diligence and time. Check your phone’s settings If you have cloud apps installed on your phone, there’s a good chance they are automatically uploading every photo you take to the cloud. Dropbox, Google+, and iCloud do this by default. That sounds scary, but it’s actually meant to be a convenience: If your phone gets wiped, destroyed, or stolen, you still have the pho-
tos online. But this means you really have to think before you take each shot. If the subject matter of your images isn’t something you'd share, open your app settings, look for automatic photo upload, and toggle it off. And remember deleting an image from your phone doesn’t necessarily mean it’s gone from the cloud, too. We had some of the my staff test various services, and Google+ kept a photo in the cloud even after it was deleted from the phone’s gallery. If you want that photo to be gone for good, be sure to log into the cloud service and check manually. As a wise Marine sergeant once said to me: Inspect, don’t expect. And while you’re at it, encrypt your phone's storage so that if it's stolen, the data stored on it stays private. Encrypt your sensitive files Sure, you could keep all your files locally, but sometimes you have to share them or otherwise make them available online. Encryption offers the best protection when you do. There are many ways to encrypt files nowadays, but I’ve got one method you should be aware of. Each has its own features, uses, and limitations.
Easy mode: 7-Zip 7-Zip is a quick-and-dirty way to encrypt your files in an archive. The 7z format supports AES 256-bit encryption, which is plenty strong for most purposes. The files in the archive are encrypted using a passphrase. For Windows, download the 7-Zip software from the project’s website. The installation should only take a few seconds. Once installed, Windows’ File Explorer (Windows Explorer for Windows 7 users) will have a 7-Zip submenu added to the context menu. 7-zip add archive 7-Zip can encrypt both the files in the archive and the filenames. Be sure to use the 7z format for compatibility across devices. To encrypt one or more files, select them, right click and select 7-Zip > Add to archive… In the dialog that opens, give the archive a name and enter a passphrase to encrypt it. You can opt to encrypt the filenames as well if you fear they might reveal the file contents. When you’re done, click OK and 7-Zip will create and encrypt the archive. All you have to do is put the archive in the cloud or in an email.
7 zip decrypt When you try to open an encrypted archive, 7-Zip will prompt you for the password. If you need to share a password with someone else, you must make sure the sharing method is secure as well. (And no, a private Facebook message is not secure.) Use an encrypted email or write it down on a scrap of paper instead. If that’s not an option, keep reading. Every website asks you to use a strong passphrase, but sadly, not everyone does. A passphrase like “pa$$word” is not strong, no matter what CNN says. I don’t even like the term “password” because it implies it should only be one word. That’s a recipe for disaster. Passphrases should be long, contain several words or fragments, and include a mix of capitalization, numbers, and special characters. And don’t use one passphrase for multiple accounts. On top of all that, swap out your passphrases every six months or so. That’s a lot to remember, so consider using a password manager for all of your account credentials. Use two-factor authentication If you haven't already, turn on two-factor au-
thentication for every service that uses it. This ensures that even if someone has your password, they won't get access to your account without the code that's sent to your phone. Keep it offline If a file's compromise would be devastating, it probably doesn't belong in the cloud in the first place. Though we frequently use cloud services to store our data, there’s no guarantee your service won’t be broken into. The security of cloud servers is completely out of your hands, so if one is hacked, there’s not much damage control you can do. Additionally, when you delete a file from your cloud service, you’re trusting that service to remove all copies of the file from its servers. Be sure to read and understand the company’s terms of service (ToS) and priva-
cy policy before you use it to store sensitive information. If after reading the ToS and privacy policy you don’t feel the company prioritizes the security of your data, don’t store your sensitive files there. You still need somewhere to keep your files, though. Removable media devices are a relatively safe option—provided you don’t plug them into strange computers or networks—and they give you more physical control over your data. Treat it like you would a backup and don’t keep it connected to your computer. Keeping your digital life private isn’t that hard, but it does take a little effort. If you use good judgement, keep aware of your device settings, and follow the security measures outlined here, you won't get caught with your pants down.
Menifee Buzz—www.menifeebuzz.com
Local 'FURNISHING HOPE' GIVES THANKS TO MILITARY FAMILY IN MENIFEE
By Michelle Mears-Gerst www.sunnewsandreview.com A military family in Menifee are counting their blessings this holiday season. After having a series of setbacks transitioning out of the United States Marine Corps, SMC Staff Sgt. Willis Howard Jones and his family are putting their lives back together with the help of organizations like, Furnishing Hope. On Saturday, November 21, a team from a non-profit called Furnishing
Hope brought a truckload of new furniture and decorations to the Jones’s home. A military organization called Semper Fi at Camp Pendleton heard of the families struggles and the organization stepped in to help the veteran and his family. Jones and his wife moved to Menifee from North Carolina this summer in an effort to better their family’s life. The couple has four children under the age of 14. Although they found a home to live in they couldn’t afford furniture. Their children were sleeping on blow up mattresses and dinners were served sitting on the floor. Furnishing Hope is a non-project based in Orange County. Since 2003, the organization has been
helping give people a step up to get back on their feet. The project helps people by providing items like a bed, clean sheets for a good night sleep. They also stock up the kitchen with the essential items to prepare a meal, a dining room table where they can share those meals, and comfortable furniture for relaxing at the end of the day. “We wanted to have the opportunity to set up this wounded warriors home before Thanksgiving and put some joy in their life,” said Beth Phillips, founder of Furnishing Hope. Mayor of Menifee Scott Mann stopped by to meet the Jones family. “Menifee really cares about the military,” said Mann. “We don’t just talk about supporting our troops, we take action.” The Jones family is getting back on their feet. Staff Sgt. Jones recently finished truck driving school and his wife landed a job as a loan officer, but the couple was still unable to provide their children furniture to live on. “We are so grateful for this blessing,” said the wife, Gaby Jones. “We just needed a step up a little helping hand. It was so hard to not have beds for our children or a table to sit at for dinner.” “We feel like we are finally getting two steps forward instead of two steps backward,” said Gaby Jones. Staff Sgt. Jones said he doesn’t like to ask for handouts and appreciates Furnishing Hope helping his family. “My wife loves it and since it makes her happy it makes me happy,” said Staff Sgt. Jones. Click the following link to learn more about Furnishing Hope, http://www.furnishinghope.org/
Page B 5
Page B 6
Menifee Buzz—www.menifeebuzz.com
City MENIFEE RECEIVES $1.14 MILLION DEBT RELIEF. EASTVALE RECEIVED NONE by C.J. Leger Over the past year, controversy over the debt three particular Riverside County cities have incurred have resulted in various propositions to provide a form of debt relief or forgiveness. An agreement has finally been reached, and the cities of Jurupa Valley, Menifee and Wildomar will finally see that request met. The debts were incurred over time as Riverside County provided services to the three cities named when they did not have enough funds to pay for the services of their own accord. Many of the services included assistance from county fire safety crews. The decision, which was met unanimously in November by the Board of Supervisors, did not come without opposition. There was an additional municipality that began legal action, claiming that it had been shortchanged in the county's decision to not provide them with debt relief as well. Eastvale’s decision to file legal suit was a publicly announced attempt to stop the county’s debt relief program for Menifee, Jurupa Valley and Wildomar. During the vote, the Board of Supervisors gave validity to Senate Bill 107,
signed by Governor Jerry Brown in September, which focused on the redistribution of money once redevelopment agencies had dissolved. Included in the bill was a clause dedicated to crediting Riverside County with $24 million to be used towards a contract the county held with Cal Fire. The $24 million for the county did come with conditions. According to the bill, Riverside County would have to forgive debts incurred by the three cities during the time they were actively transitioning from County Assistance to self-sustaining city agencies after their incorporation. After their incorporation, however, all three cities relied on county services such as fire, police, and on occasion, maintenance and repair until they ran into a financial roadblock in the summer of 2011 when legislators significantly shifted budgets once meant for cities incorporated between 2004 and 2011. Under Senate Bill 89, funds that were previously reserved for cities incorporated within that time frame, where redistributed to meet the realignment of public safety, stripping $20 million from the cities and depositing them into a Law Enforcement Grant Account where grants would be awarded to public safety department on a statewide scale.
One of the more recent grants was awarded to Murrieta Police Department in the sum of $135,833 to continue a traffic safety program to alleviate the influx of traffic related accidents in the area. The debt relief program also received opposition from the governor, who refused to take action on two separate occasions to provide debt relief to the three cities, both of which were brought forth by Senator Richard Roth, a Democrat for Riverside County, who spearheaded Assembly Bill 113 and Senate Bill 25 aimed at directly replacing the funds lost by the cities. Each were vetoed by the governor. Eastvale’s request to be included in the debt relief program was denied by the Board of Supervisors, because according to Supervisor Kevin Jeffries, Eastvale did not have the significant hardships in paying back money owed to the county as did the other three cities. According to county records, Eastvale regularly made payments to the county for services they used until 2015. The supervisors made insinuating claims that Eastvale was conveniently ceasing their payments in anticipation of being included in the debt relief program and receiving a credit on its original financial loss due
to Senate Bill 89. The final count states that Menifee will receive a credit of $1.4 million, Jurupa Valley for $21.32 million and Wildomar a credit for $1.18 million. However, these credits are all dependent on the expected Cal Fire credit being issued to the Board. No credit was reserved for Eastvale and its $5 million debt owed to the County, which was incurred between January and June of 2015. In response, the City Council of Eastvale met in a closed session in November and agreed to sue Riverside County. Bill 107 effectively gives the California Department of Finance the authority to distribute the $24 million, which County Chief Counsel Greg Priamos stated would resolve the issue between Riverside and Eastvale. However, if the City of Eastvale continues to refuse payment to the County for monies owed, the County does have the right to seek a court order demanding payment or withhold property taxes from the City.
Menifee Buzz—www.menifeebuzz.com
Page B 7
PARK APPROVED FOR MENIFEE WITH DEFERRED DELIVERY DATE by C.J. Leger November was a big month for Menifee, not only did the County vote to approve the $1.14 million debt relief for the city, but now the City Council has also came to a resolution on the proposition for a new park near the Newport Estates. The proposition has been under scrutiny, and it has been debated for a very long time, starting in 2001 when the park’s developer, Pacific Communities, entered into an agreement with the city to build on the land. According to the agreement, at the mark of the 200th building permit issued to Pacific Communities, the developer should have had the park already delivered and complete. Currently, Pacific Communities has been issued 197 building permits as noted in a city staff report. The park is designed to span 2.5 acres and be placed near the city center. Although the developer presented construction plans for the final design of the park in March, the resolution reached with the City Council means that the park’s deadline will be deferred until the developer is issued their 300th occupancy permit. The park has been backed by many community leaders including Matt Liesemeyer, the representative for district 2, and anticipated by many of the residents in the area who are forced to cross one of the city’s
busiest roads, Newport Avenue, just to reach the closest park in distance to their residence, which is Lazy Creek Park. Although Liesemeyer is in favor of the completion of the park, he casted a “no” vote at the City Council Meeting in preference to direct negotiations with the developer by offering incentives to complete the park instead of deferring its completion to the finalized condition. There are a few factors surrounding the construction of the park at the moment. The issue of agreement also lies within technicalities that have arisen as a result of the city's incorporation. The initial agreement was reached in 2001 under the Riverside County Integrated Plan (RCIP), which was roughly 7 years prior to the city being incorporated, changing the rules. A new plan was adopted in December of 2013, which ef-
CRIME MAP BREAKING & ENTERING 10/26/2015 8:52 HAUN RD & NEWPORT RD ROBBERY 10/23/2015 17:59 BRADLEY RD & NEWPORT RD THEFT 10/2/2015 8:24 PORTAL WAY & WOODEN BOAT DR 10/7/2015 12:11 MURRIETA RD & NEWPORT RD 10/16/2015 12:22 MENIFEE RD & NEWPORT RD 10/25/2015 18:55 HAUN RD & NEWPORT RD
THEFT OF VEHICLE 10/11/2015 18:11 EL RANCHO DR & LAKE FOREST DR 10/18/2015 17:46 BRANDYWINE DR & MURRIETA RD VEHICLE RECOVERY 10/3/2015 5:43 CAMDEN WAY & MANCHESTER DR 10/27/2015 21:16 BRADLEY RD & NEWPORT RD 10/28/2015 11:33 EL PICO LN & ENCANTO DR
MENIFEE CRIME WATCH "THE EYES AND EARS OF THE SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT" 27851 BRADLEY RD. #190 | MENIFEE, CA 92586 (951) 679-7031
fectively replaced the RCIP plan to serve as the reigning blueprint for all subsequent development in the city. Financial struggle has also been cited as part of the reason for why the construction of the park has taken so long with the developer blaming the economic downturn for the hardship. The city also addressed the factor of finance with regards to the park, addressing their concerns for the feasibility of allocating funds for the continued maintenance of the park. The new plan adopted in 2013 is said to address this issue. Further reassurance comes from City Manager Rob Johnson who also stated that plans have been set in motion to ensure that developers follow through with their promises to develop parks as well as ensure that the city has the proper funds to maintain them.
Page B 8
Menifee Buzz—www.menifeebuzz.com
STEP OUT AND STEP INTO YOUR OWN BUSINESS ON THE MARK WITH ROBBIE MOTTER More and more individuals are giving up high-paying positions to start their own small businesses, seeking the opportunity to be their own bosses, have total control for their achievements, and have time for their families. Some say they are tired of long commutes, office politics, stressful and demanding deadlines, which leave no time for family life and extra-curricular activities. For many, the ability to live a balanced life surpasses the quest for money. This really hit home for me, as before I decided to become an entrepreneur. I was a Deputy Director for a very large Federal Agency in Crystal City, Virginia. Although I was well paid, my job was very demanding and I was supervising more than 400 people. In addition, I did special projects for the Commissioner and also did the event planning for all the social gatherings. I was so stressed out that I often went home with pains in my chest and arm, and had trouble sleeping. The additional responsibilities of being a single parent only added to my stress. I kept telling myself that the money and the benefits were too good to give up, but when I really looked at the situation, I knew that if I continued working that hard, I probably would not be around to collect the great retirement plan. One day, I had finally had enough and turned in my letter of resignation in and decided to become an entrepreneur doing marketing, public relations and event planning, something I have been doing ever since. Over the years, added writing for magazines and books and speaking and loving every minute of it. Now I was in control of what I wanted to do. Needless to say, at first, being on my own was a pretty scary step. There were days that I wondered why I had made the decision, but I never gave up. Everyday I meet people with similar stories. Individuals who were presidents of top corporations and one day decided to trade it in for a more balanced life. Reaching that decision can be very difficult, but more and more people are leaving corporate America and moving to small towns and doing something completely unrelated to what they had done in the past. A top New York Executive I knew for years when I worked in New York, in a top position myself, who
was making a very high salary with great built-in perks decided to leave the company and move to Maine to build furniture and enjoy his children. He is loving every minute of it. A dear friend of mine worked for a top government official in California and was responsible for contract negotiations on most items needed for the Air Force Space Program. When her Air Force Base closed and was offered a transfer, she decided it was time to make a change. She left the contract negotiation business and now provides corporate training, writes great articles and coaches other people on how to find balance in their lives. Many people like my friend had very little funding to start, but believed in themselves and their talents and ultimately achieved their goals. More and more companies and organizations are looking at offering their employees time management and life balance training. In fact I have been booked to speak for a large Meeting Planners Conference in Ventura, CA in early 2016 on Time Management/Life Balance Strategies. Are you one of those people staying in a job that you dislike because you are scared to take the step to see what else might be out there? Perhaps you can’t make the change because you cannot afford to lose your monthly salary. If that is true, why not start some planning so that before long, you can be in a position to make it happen? Making any change is scary, but if you can surround yourself with positive people, so that when it gets scary you have someone to call to keep you motivated and uplifted, it will be easier. You can start the process by setting some goals and defining your vision for your small business. Get the training you need to run a business if you do not already have the experience. Look at your local colleges and see what courses they might offer. Check with the Small Business Administration. Talk to people that have businesses like you are interested in and learn from them some of the issues they had to overcome. People like shar-
ing, so remember, the power is in the ASKING. Remember achieving a healthy work/life balance requires managing your professional and personal life in sustainable ways that keep your energy flowing, your mind and body healthy and your whole self happy and content. It means giving due attention to all the things that enrich and fulfill you including work and career, health and fitness, family and relationships, spirituality, community service, hobbies and passions, intellectual stimulation, rest and recreation. Robbie Motter is the Global Coor-
dinator for NAFE (National Association of Female Executives) a PR/ Marketing Consultant, Event Planner, Author, writer for the Menifee & Murrieta Buzz and the Inland Empire Business Review, Certified National Speaker. She is also Board Member- Temecula Valley Symphony, PR Chair for the Menifee Valley Lions Club, Member GFWC/Menifee Sun City Women’s Club and Menifee and Wildomar Chamber of Commerce.
For more Local News visit us at: www.menifeebuzz.com
Menifee Buzz—www.menifeebuzz.com
Page B 9