My murrieta magazine issue3

Passion for Pets Runs in the family

HISTORIC DOWNTOWN MURRIETA | Salvation Army; Putting the 'Giving' in Thanksgiving

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D a y s ’ P n a a r r a e t d e e V

Take Note /////////

“Thank you for being my American Hero!”

A Note from Your Neighbor,

Mayor Rick Gibbs Murrieta has always impressed me because of the small town feel even though we have 106,000 residents. It is a veteran friendly patriotic community and the prime example is the Veteran’s Day Parade. Every year the parade attracts around 100 entries from girl scouts to WWII vets and 10,000 plus people turn out to watch and applaud. The parade has a quintessential small town America feel. It is pure admiration and patriotism but it’s also genuine. It’s something that just would not feel the same in the big city.

The people on the sidelines are a part of the small town feeling. Moms and Dads lining the sidewalks with their children, thanking the veterans for their service, fill me with appreciation to live here. One year I received a handmade star that said “Thank you for being my American hero,” from a group of little girls.

Mayor Rick Gibbs & family

It was a stark contrast to my return from Vietnam.

It means a lot to me, personally, to see the support we have for our troops in Murrieta.

On Monday, November 11th, the Murrieta Veterans Day Parade will begin on Washington Avenue at 10 AM. It will finish up by Town Square Park where the Murrieta Rotary Club will have over 2000 American flags on display. There will be a concert with patriotic music at the amphitheater and a short ceremony to unveil the new Honor Garden, located by the Veterans Memorial, where citizens have purchased tiles to honor family members who have served their nation. I invite all of you to come enjoy the pride in our nation that is so amply displayed in Murrieta on Nov/11.

MyMurrietaMag.com |

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Contents

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departments 5 Publisher's Note

Cover Story 6 Old Town Veterinary Hospital

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27

Ask the Expert 10 Giving 14 Wellness 23 Insurance

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13 Mark Meyers

features

Blazing Tales

11 Benefits of reading to your little ones

Meet Your Neighbor

21 Turkey Time

Students of the Month 26 September & October

Rising Star 27 Suchi Amin

Community Corner 28 The 411 on Murrieta

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15 School Memories 16 Historic Downtown Murrieta

I do NOT

have an accent!

22 Turkey Soup Recipe

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pg.

Publisher’s Note /////////

//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Hello again, friends. It’s Thanksgiving time and I love the chance Publisher

Tracy Blanscet Editor

Rachael Shay Contributors

Stephanie Constantino Jan Duran

Mayor Rick Gibbs William Joyce

Heather Rawlings Karen Robertson

Dr. Terry A. Rondberg

Lois Templan

Photographer

Terina Matthews photography

Janice Rumsey

Art Director/Graphic Design Fara Asay

MyMurrieta Magazine

27890 Clinton Keith Road, D-306 Murrieta, CA 92562 cell | 951.265.3173

office | 951.801.5332

www.mymurrietamag.com

www.facebook.com/mymurrietamagazine

To contact editor:

tracy@mymurrietamag.com

Editorial content is provided by advertisers and is expressly intended as general information and for entertainment purposes only. Editorial content is not offered as advice, recommendations, or as an endorsement. Editorial content is intended only as statements of opinion, not statements of fact. The publisher makes no representations or guarantees, express or implied, to the accuracy of any information contained in editorial content or advertisements. The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the publishers. Express written permission must be granted to re-print or copy any material contained herein.

to pause and reflect on the things I’m grateful for. Of course this doesn’t have to be only once a year. Thanksgiving is an attitude, so feel free to express your gratitude all year round. One year I made it a goal to look for things to be grateful for and express my gratitude often. It was a fantastic year! I wrote many ‘thank you’ notes on Sundays besides being much more verbal with my positive feedback. These weren’t just empty thank yous… I learned to look for and recognize people’s contributions that I never noticed before.

This month I want to thank YOU, readers. Your positive feedback on the magazine has been rolling in. You have been fantastic in spreading the “positive gossip” and I’m so excited every time it comes back to me. Thank you for all who shared the online magazine too! We’ve got over 22,000 online readers already! It’s been amazing to meet so many remarkable people right here in Murrieta.

But then again, we all have an amazing story. Each of us has strengths and weaknesses… tragedies and victories. For me getting a glimpse into the life of someone else is empowering. When I see the extraordinary things that regular people (just like us) are doing, it makes me feel like I can do great things too!

Another thing I’m grateful for is my big family. It’s national adoption month and I just want to say, you people who make room in your hearts and homes to raise children in need of parents, are just amazing. My own parents adopted three of my siblings after the first five of us were in our 30s! Yes, five plus three is eight. And at a time when most seniors are winding down, my parents are volunteering at the elementary school and driving to gymnastics.

Thank you parents! Speaking of adoptions, get ready to “adopt” a family for Christmas from the Salvation Army.

Read about this on page 28.

I’m excited too for you to meet Mark Meyer in this issue. Just turn to page 13. He’s been a “bright spot” in our community for over 16 years. Plus, I know you’re curious to see what antics Blaze is up to this month. As usual, keep in touch. I’d love to have your ideas on neighbors to feature, recipes to share, and local places you love to go. Send them to me at tracy@mymurrietamag.com Your Neighbor,

Tracy

Passion for Pets

//////// Feature

Runs in the family

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Staying in Murrieta was important to me.

I want my clients to be my neighbors, my kid’s teachers and coaches, and my friends

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Feature /////////

ebecca Black has always had a passion for animals. Beyond her excellent medical care, knowledge and service, she is never without a friendly smile and a caring touch. Her story is one of hard work, devotion, and a passion to help others.

Rebecca’s father, Robert Merlo, has always been an inspiration to her. Robert owned McHenry Animal Hospital in McHenry, Illinois, giving Rebecca the opportunity to be around animals and watch her father’s compassion and skill as a veterinarian. In fact, for a time, part of her family home was an animal clinic, and she often crept down to that that part of the house at night, and would crawl in to the kennels to sleep with the furry “patients.” Through her father, she learned that being a veterinarian included many diverse medical specialties including dentistry, radiology, surgery, nutrition and behavior. It didn’t take long for everyone to notice how much she cared about animals, and she was engulfed with a passion to help.

Robert’s creative innovation and desire to help inspired him to turn his business into a mobile veterinary clinic. His office consisted of a 34-foot RV that traveled to small towns throughout the Midwest.

Roberts three sons are each successful in what they do, but it was his daughter, Rebecca, who chose to follow in his footsteps, and become a veterinarian. She attended the University of California, San Diego, and graduated in 2003 with her Bachelor’s Degree in Biochemistry and Cell Biology. Up to this point Rebecca wasn’t sure whether she wanted to practice medicine for people or animals. It wasn’t long until she knew that her future must include both medicine and animals. She obtained her Doctorate through the Western University of Health Sciences, School of veterinary medicine as part of the charter class of 2007.

Her career led her to Riverside County where she worked as an associate veterinarian for six years, but there was a lot she wanted to do differently. “I found myself constantly thinking about improving different aspects of the hospital,” she said. She eventually began entertaining the idea of opening a family-oriented animal hospital that had a welcoming environment, along with personalized, compassionate care for both animals and owners.

“It’s no secret that most veterinarians are not natural businessmen (or businesswomen). At least not the ones that practice with a heart,” Rebecca admitted. “I knew it would be my biggest challenge.” In 2013, in an effort to MyMurrietaMag.com |

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//////// Feature support his daughter, Robert moved to Murrieta to help her open her very first clinic. Her father’s experience and guidance have helped her to create the practice she envisioned.

Last month, they opened Old Town Veterinary Clinic in Historic Downtown Murrieta.

Rebecca’s dream of creating a warmhearted environment played a big role in deciding on a location for her business. Staying in Murrieta was important to her. “I want my clients to be my neighbors, my kid’s teachers and coaches, and my friends.” Providing old-fashioned service is extremely important and paired with an ideal location in the Historic Downtown Murrieta created the perfect feel she wanted for her her practice.

Personal, caring service is the goal of the staff at the clinic. “We’re not here just for the animals. When the furry members of families are sick or in need of medical care, it can be tough or painful for our clients and we are here for them as well.” Having a close, friendly relationship with our clients is important and it helps build trust that allows us to care for their pets and educate them so their animals can live longer.

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The hospital provides many services beyond most veterinary clinics.

A house call is an option if the pet or owner is unable to travel and they will deliver medications.

Rebecca believes educating pet owners is the key to having happy, healthy pets. She will assess, diagnose and give treatment options that fit a family’s needs and goals.

Rebecca employs a small staff and together, they help to provide excellent care and treatment to patients and their owners. Along with herself and her father, the team includes Emily, the receptionist, and two veterinary technicians, Glori and Kathryn. Additionally, she has a silent partner, her biggest supporter, and mom, Vicky Gilbert. Rebecca is proud of her staff. “Our team members are like a family,” say Rebecca.

“It’s amazing how much effort they put in each day because they believe in why we are here, and they care about what we do.”

In her personal life, Rebecca has

been married for eight years to her husband, Houston, a middle school math teacher. They have two boys; Charlie is six, and Liam is three.

Her work life came home with her in the form of her two rescued dogs, Jack and Bella. Murrieta is where she chose to settle down with her family and to build their future and the future of her business and she is proud to be a part of this community.

41891 Kalmia Street, Ste. C Murrieta, CA 92562 951.698.3200 oldtownvethospital.com Mon-Fri: 8:30am - 5:30pm Sat: 8:30am - 2:00pm

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//////// Ask the Expert / giving

By: Stephanie Constantino

“No one has ever become poor by giving”

Anne Frank was wise beyond her years when she wrote this. Even as an adolescent, she realized that it is not money that creates wealth. True wealth is created by the generosity of self and others.

The Salvation Army understands and promotes this concept very well.

The organization originated as an Evangelical group, and they have continued to spread their beliefs about the church while providing struggling members of society a way to make ends meet. The Salvation Army aims “to meet human needs in His name without discrimination,” as noted in The Salvation Army Mission Statement.

What most people don’t know is what goes on behind the scenes.

They are extremely dedicated to keeping their company running as efficiently as possible. They will take practically any donated items, regardless of condition: New, used… even broken. They never throw away anything that can be used: old clothes that are no longer wearable become cleaning rags, boxes and bags become storage containers to help keep the facility organized, old hangers help stock the clothing racks. They are continuously doing their part to keep this world a clean, healthy place.

But people are buying these refurbished and gently used items, right? They pay money in exchange

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for goods. Where does this money go?

The items that are in good condition are sold in the Salvation Army stores while auctions are held for items that aren’t in good condition.

Salvation Army is the largest recycler in the world. Donors trust Salvation Army to “do the most good” with their donations, and the Salvation Army takes that responsibility seriously.

The Salvation Army has created many programs to help the surrounding communities. They provide disaster and emergency relief to all areas of the country, run youth services and summer camps, and have a large campaign against human trafficking. They provide services for the elderly, disabled, homeless, and addicted. They are not afraid to get their hands dirty dealing with some of our society’s most challenging problems.

SO HOW CAN YOU HELP?

First, there are a few ways to donate goods. You can bring your goods to the store, to a certified collection center, or to one of the drop off donation boxes. If you’ve got a lot to donate, you can set an appointment time for goods to be picked up from your location. If you would like to schedule a pick-up appointment, simply dial 1-800-SA TRUCK. You can also donate vehicles, whether or not they are in working condition. This is a win-win, as you will receive a tax-deductible receipt for your donations.

Overall, The Salvation Army proves time and again that they are dedicated to the well being of our society as they reach out to many different kinds of people in need with their programs. Their generosity and altruism sets an excellent example for a society focused on material things, and we can all benefit from supporting programs such as this.

After all, true wealth is created by generosity.

Donations collected throughout Riverside County support the Riverside County Adult Rehabilitation Center in Perris. This program has been instrumental in helping men overcome addiction and develop work skills. Families can be reunited when these challenges are navigated.

Reading /////////

By: Heather Rawlings, AKA “Miss Heather”

The Benefits of Reading to Your Little Ones.

So, I was one of those moms. I read to my children out loud before they even escaped my womb. I read poetry, Dr. Seuss and chapter books for hours…it was something I dreamt of doing when I was young because I had this crazy fascination with storytelling and I loved being read to. (I secretly still do…don’t tell) It was just something I did.“Kids that read or are read to, do better in school, period.”

As a preschool teacher, I see the fruits of those who have someone reading to them at home. They can sit still a little bit longer, they have a love of books and have a strong imagination and vocabulary. Kids that read or are read to, do better in school, period.*

As a Murrieta resident, we are so fortunate to have a library that is invested in our littlest ones. The staff, the facility and all the books are top notch! They have programming year round that fosters the love of literature and stimulates their creativity. On Wednesdays, the library has their fall storytelling series. Check out the Murrieta Public Library Facebook Page for specific times and other important information. All activities are free, all the time. Take a trip around the world, one book at a time. Thanks Murrieta! *Check out www.rif.org for all sorts of statistics on the benefits of early reading!

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Mark Meyer: A SILVER LINING ON A CLOUDY DAY

Meet your Neighbor /////////

By Tracy Blanscet

It’s been said that every cloud has a silver lining and Murrieta seems to have one in the Historic Downtown Post Office, where Mark Meyer has been brightening days for 16 years.

Mark grew up in Minnesota, the seventh of nine children. The family struggled financially, but they were a tight-knit Catholic family with a strong bond. Family influences gave Mark the ability to work hard and always do his best. At the age of 18, Mark joined the Air Force spending many of the following years overseas. Living abroad in Italy, Australia and Portugal helped him to learn that all people are similar at the core.

After 20 years of military service, Mark retired and started his second career with the Post Office.

The respectful and caring nature Mark has cultivated since youth has allowed him to connect with people in all different walks of life.

Customers have reported that over the course of several years, they have heard him give positive tips on life, love, and happiness and even

make business connections between customers. He seems to be tuned in to how he might help each person along their way as they cross paths.

He seems to be tuned in to how he might help each person Not everyone comes to his counter with a smile, but that doesn’t discourage him. He finds a way to interact with most everyone, noticing details most would overlook. Mark has taken what would normally be a dreary atmosphere and created a place of joy. He’s even been known to get a group of waiting customers to join in a chorus of “Happy Birthday,” when he observes a birth date on a driver’s license.

“Occasionally, you get someone who appears to be sour,” explains Mark. “I don’t let it prevent me from interacting.” Wisely, he knows that people are often dealing with their own struggles: sadness, loneliness, or personal problems. He doesn’t assume anyone is unkind or

unfriendly. “You never know when you’ll make the difference for someone else,” says Mark.

Mark has been married “forever” to his lovely wife, Sheri. Their two grown daughters are both married; one lives in Murrieta, and the other lives in Germany. He credits his solid family life to the Christian principals they not only believe, but try to live by each day.

Mark is planning to retire from the USPS in January 2014. This would normally be a happy event, but a major change has cast a shadow over the occasion. His younger sister, Annie Meyer, went missing in February 2013 in Colorado. Mark has made several trips in order to keep law enforcement active on the case. Her remains were found in July, and her roommate is being investigated.

The Annie Meyer Foundation was founded to give support and guidance to other families involved in similar crises. Their mission is to educate survivors about victim’s rights and steps to keep law officials focused on a case. Mark explains that people going through this terrible experience don’t always realize that they have ‘victim’s rights.’

The sadness on Mark’s face is unmistakable. However, he’s now been the one lifted by the thoughtful expressions of others. He’s received so much kindness and support conveyed in the hundreds of cards, e-mails, and calls from friends and strangers. In the midst of this painful time, Mark is grateful for the silver linings he’s discovered in his darkest clouds.

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//////// Ask the Expert / wellness

Bioenergy Therapy

By Dr. Terry A. Rondberg

E

very part of your body – from bottom of your big toe to the top of your skull – is organized and self regulated by the wisdom that made your body. But there’s one area that is the center of much of our nerve function. It’s called the sub-occipital triangle, in the upper neck area.

Suboccipital Triangle

It’s the region of the neck bounded by four powerful pairs of muscles covered by dense tissue that help the larger muscles provide fine motor control for the head. These muscles are connected to the base of the skull.

This area has the most concentrated amount of mechanoreceptors in your entire body. Mechanoreceptors respond to physical pressures and

allow you to detect touch, monitor the position of your muscles, bones, and joints, and detect sounds and the motion of your body.

Recent research has proven that when these muscles are tight or tense they affect the membrane covering the brain and the spinal column, called the dura mater. This can lead to muscle contractions that can cause headaches (including migraines), back and neck pain, and referred pain throughout the body.

Even more serious is that muscle tension can cause mechanical deformation of the brain stem, which can affect functioning of the cardiac and respiratory control centers located there. Conditions such as skin disorders, asthma, and various digestive disorders have been associated with dysfunction of the musculature in this area. The objective of Bioenergy Therapy is to reduce tension, correcting dysfunction of muscles, fascia, nerve and blood vessels in the upper neck.

Bioenergy Therapy is an advanced innovation in wellness care that starts with gentle vibrations applied to the sub-occipital, upper trapezius, and posterior cervical muscles, including the smallest of these muscles, which control the movement of the vertebrae.

TEMECULA WELLNESS CENTER 28780 Old Town Front St. Ste. D-7 951-699-5000 www.temeculawellnesscenter.com 14

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It’s totally non-invasive and drugfree and uses a specially designed percussor instrument that produces 12 gentle percussions per second; this frequency is known as the sensorimotor rhythm and it is associated with an alert, attentive state coupled with relaxed motor activity.

Ultimately, the brain changes one’s levels of pain, postural distortion, stress levels, and stiffness. Yet, for the brain to accomplish this, it must receive incoming, sensory information that can reach the highest cortical regions of the brain.

The gentle vibratory and rocking motions from the percussor do not cause reflexive muscle guarding, and over time, will retrain both muscles and nerves to allow for improved movement and relief from pain and tension.

By working directly on the muscles in the sub-occipital triangle region, Bioenergy Therapy directly affects the brain, where all pain, stiffness and dysfunction originate.

After relaxing this area, the brain can return to doing what it does best: helping us to better adapt to internal and external stressors and making possible our highest expression of health and vitality.

Dr. Rondberg experiences: • Diplomate of the College of Energy Medicine • Diplomate of the College of Mind-Body Medicine • Certified Massage Therapist • President of World Chiropractic Alliance • Doctor of Chiropractic

Flashback /////////

teacher in small town Murrieta Elementary School in the from a

By: Karen Robertson I was pretty low when I drove through Riverside in the summer of 1971. My only job offer had been in Blythe, enough said! I was on my way to accept the job when the Riverside County Office of Education told me there was a little country school that needed an elementary teacher who could also coach P.E. A week later, I found myself in Murrieta, California being interviewed by three board members at a local goat farm. Murrieta had only one school, Murrieta Elementary K-8, with 6 teachers and 150 students. That first year I was hired I taught third and fourth grade and had 39 students, 22 of which were boys. It was a tough year for me.

In the afternoon, the 7th & 8th grade teacher took my class and I coached the 5th – 8th grade girls P.E. Other than taking high school P.E., I had never been involved in girls’ sports to any extent, and had no idea what I was doing. Often the teacher who coached the boys 5th – 8th grade would meet us on the soccer field and we’d have a free-for-all soccer game. Neither of us knew the rules and it was wild crazy fun with the students trying to zero in on the teachers rather than the ball.

We often ended up on the ground. The other teacher, Greg Lockett, once ended up in the hospital for 28 days after one of our games and it resulted in never being allowed that freedom again. In fact, we were told to learn the rules and play with the right amount of people on the field.

It wasn’t unusual to see a few parents bringing their kids to school on horses. The principal could spank kids and did when it was needed. If it was about fighting, he would sometimes drag out the wrestling mats and let the kids go at it until they worked things out. From that, Principal Charles Van de Wetering, aka “Mr. Van,” developed a great wrestling program that produced some wonderful athletes, like our present City Councilman, Alan Long, his brothers, and many others.

Teachers weren’t so isolated from the public back then. Kids would call me if their parents stayed too late at the bar and ask me to go and get them. One year, the Pyatt family’s mobile home burned down and I took one of the family’s children, who was in my class, home with me.

He ended up living with us for 9 weeks! He said, “It was the only time in my life I got my homework done and turned in on time.” Living with the teacher will do that.

At one point, each teacher got one grade and I took 4th. I ended up with only 14 students. There were disgruntled teachers who thought it was unfair. Mr. Van assured them, “Just wait. Every new student we get this year will probably be a 4th grader.” It was the best bunch of selfmotivated students. More like a family. On Friday, if every one had their assignments finished, we all piled in my big Buick and Marsha Kempf’s long station wagon and took fieldtrips to parks, wineries, businesses, publishing houses and anywhere that sounded interesting.

After several months, Mr. Van caught us and put a stop to our impromptu excursions.

Permissions slips? Sure, I had them all sign one at the first of the year hoping that would cover everything.

One Halloween, we had a scarecrow contest. Each classroom entered their creation. My class made a 7-foot scarecrow out of Coors beer cans. After the contest, our scarecrow was displayed in front of the Murrieta Market. It caught the attention of the Coors distributors who bought it for $50. Do you suppose that would be allowed these days?

Kids often had their dogs follow them to school. There was a pen where you could leave your dog while you were in class. Mr. Van got fed up with dog sitting and told the secretary, Marie Curran, to call the dogcatcher the next time someone left a dog at school. Mr. Van lived ½ block away on Adams. The next dog on campus was his and it cost him a trip to Riverside and a bundle of money to get his pet back. There was no more talk of dogcatchers.

I loved teaching in Murrieta. I am grateful every day that I came here and got to raise my kids here so they could grow up in a little country town when life was a little easier and there weren’t so many rules.

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Interesting fact

Did you know Murrieta was originally spelled Murrietta? Look at the sign above. Old photographs and documents show the original spelling.

Denny Scales – The Old Photo Company since 1976 200 E. Florida Ave., Hemet, CA • 951-929-6565

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Historic Downtown /////////

Visit Historic Downtown Murrieta

Slow down, Take a step Back in Time to a place where people slow down to talk to each other and clocks seem to tick slower. Support your Historic Downtown District, shop local.

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The evolution of the

//////// Business Buzz

toupee

Which man is wearing a hairpiece?

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By Rachael Shay

emember what it felt like to run your fingers through your hair?

(Or even better, how it felt when someone else did?) Hair Associates provides a high-quality, non-surgical hair restoration process that re-creates the look and feel of your own, natural hair. You can brush & style your hair, swim, and even get sand in your hair.

Jan Ruiz truly loves her work.

After working as a hairstylist at South

Hair Associates Customized Hair Systems 24910 Washington Ave. Ste. 302 Murrieta CA 92562 Phone: 951-348-0595 Hairbyjan.com By appointment only 18

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Coast Plaza for several years, she received a phone call from a gentleman wanting to recruit her to work for his hair replacement business. He invited Jan to tour his men’s hair salon whose primary clientele were balding men with hairpieces, or hair systems.

Upon her visit to the shop, Jan was surprised by what she saw. She couldn’t believe the hair she was seeing on these men was not their own. The hair replacements were better than she thought possible. Jan spent time speaking to several men at the shop individually and many expressed their embarrassment of balding. These men felt more confident and at ease with their hairpieces.

This was a pivotal moment for Jan. She knew women would be sensitive to balding and now understood men weren’t so different. This began her mission to help balding men feel secure and confident in their appearance.

After some time, Jan teamed up with a very successful businessman in Long Beach who was looking to retire. This man mentored Jan for a year, to get her comfortable running the business, and then retired. “He was the most honest and caring person I had ever worked with,” remembers Jan. She is grateful to have trained with someone who was truly focused on clients and not production – focused (aka profit-focused).

Fast-forward 20 years… Hair Associates is still thriving in Long Beach and Jan opens a second location in Murrieta. “My clients are from all over Southern California, so it’s

Answer: both

great to give them an option that may be closer to home,” explains Jan. The quiet and quaint location in the Historic District of Murrieta has been a great choice.

Today’s hair replacement systems look so authentic. They are made of real hair and are colored, cut and styled to blend flawlessly with a man’s own hair. The scalp portion is see-thru mesh blending completely with ones own skin tone. Many are custom made with a spattering of grays that perfectly blends with the client’s hair. A special medical grade, hypoallergenic adhesive is used to affix the hair system to the scalp.

Then it’s just like your own: wash it, blow dry it, style it… It’s yours!

Jan offers private, confidential, one-at-atime appointments.

The client comes back each month to have the hairpiece serviced and the adhesive reapplied. In a regular salon or barbershop, this process is typically done in front of other clients; Jan, however, provides private, confidential, one-at-a-time appointments.

“Making men look their best and feel confident is my business!” says Jan. Come and see Jan in Historic Murrieta for your free hair consultation.

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//////// Blaze Tales

Turkey Time

It’s me, Blaze! I’m so excited!!! Aaahhoooo!

The holidays are arriving and that means it’s feast time! Thanksgiving is my favorite day ever!

Every year on Thanksgiving, my people invite other people to the house and they all come in carrying bowls and plates of food. The wonderful smells of delicious treats fill the air. All day long everyone eats and eats and eats… and everyone drops and drops and drops! It’s a tortuous day, but if played right, can be filled with great reward.

In the morning, mom wakes up early to stuff a turkey. The house begins to fill with smells that make my mouth water. The visitors don’t realize that I can reach the edge of the counters and they usually place their dishes within my tongues reach.

One year, I couldn’t hold back. I put my paws up on the counter and I lost it! I couldn’t help myself, I ate a whole pie and most of the mashed potatoes before they realized. All of the dishes got moved to the center of the counter where I couldn’t reach and I got sent to my kennel with no more treats for the day. Every time they looked my way they’d shake their heads making me wish I could hide my head. But, I’ve learned to keep control: if I’m patient my reward will come.

I’m a master at feast time now… My strategy is the key. First, I go for the easy targets. Little kids are the best. I can slip tasty morsels right from their little hands and even train them to fetch pieces of food from the buffet to feed me. Eventually if mom catches on, she bans everyone from feeding me and I am left to scavenge dropped pieces of food from the floor. Yum, yum!

Turkey, stuffing, bread, and more.

Next I go hang with the teens. I know lots of tricks and if I park myself directly in front of one of them with my ears perked up just right, they’ll ask me to perform. I lie down, roll over, spin circles, jump: whatever it takes to get my snacks.

Once the people sit down at the table to eat, if mom hasn’t seen how much I’ve already eaten, I can work one more angle. If I sit quietly, off to the side with very sad eyes and maybe even add a little whimper, mom will hook me up with nice chunks of turkey when dinner’s over.

At the end of the day, I curl up for a nap: fat and happy. I’ve done well. I’ve got these people trained, but as any smart dog knows, I’ve gotta let them think it’s they who have me trained.

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Turkey Soup §

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//////// Recipe

Hearty, Healthy,

§

§

A recipe from your neighbor

{ Jan Duran

ingredients:

2 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 5 Shallots, chopped 3 Carrots cut into 1/2” pieces 1 Red Bell Pepper, cut into 1/2” pieces 12 oz. ground Turkey 1Tablespoon herbs de Provence One 32 Oz chicken broth One 15 Oz diced tomatoes, in juice, drained 1 cup cooked brown rice 1 bunch Kale, chopped (about 4 cups) 1 teaspoon sea salt ½ teaspoon black pepper Chopped Italian parsley (for garnish) Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

}

directions:

Heat oil over medium heat; add shallots, carrots, bell pepper and sauté, stirring frequently until the vegetables begin to soften slightly, 8–10 min.

Add ground turkey and stir until meat turns white, (or leftover Thanksgiving turkey shredded) 5–7 min.

Add herbs de Provence and stir 1 min.

Add chicken broth, tomatoes and rice.

Bring to a boil.

Stir in kale and season with salt and pepper.

Reduce heat to medium/low and cover, simmering until the vegetables are tender, about 15 min.

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Serve bowls and top with chopped parsley and fresh grated parmesan cheese. Enjoy!!

Serves 4 – 6

Ready or not…

Ask the Expert / insurance /////////

Health Care Reform

Like it or not, the new federal health care law, The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act appears to be a reality. As a life and health insurance professional I have been overwhelmed with calls from people looking to change their existing plan or get information about how the new system works. If you have an existing plan, I encourage you not to cancel it until you talk to your agent. Your coverage versus premium may be better than anything you can purchase on an exchange.

The new marketplace is designed to get health insurance companies to compete for your business.

Exchanges opened on October 1, 2013 for enrollment for coverage beginning January 1, 2014.

Individuals that want to purchase health insurance with immediate coverage can contact health insurance carriers or agents directly to obtain a policy.

According to new guidelines, all plans must be sold with certain coverage mandates. They must cover essential health benefits including doctor’s office visits, hospital stays, emergency room care, children’s care and prescriptions.

There will be four basic levels for coverage – Platinum, Gold, Silver and Bronze. This will make it easier to compare plans. As the policy coverage increases, so does the premium level. However, your costs may be lower when you receive medical care depending on the plan you choose.

Essentially, the lower the premium the higher the deductible and out of pocket expense.

The Affordable Care Act requires most adults to have some form of health insurance by January 1, 2014.

If you do not have coverage in place by then you will face a financial penalty. The fine is 1% of your annual income or $95, whichever is greater.

In California, the state is operating an online system to assist residents with information on what the requirements are and how to purchase health insurance. The program is called Covered California.

Residents can shop for plans online, and Covered California will provide in-person and telephone assistance to anyone that needs it.

For more information visit the Covered California website at www.CoveredCA.com.

“

By William Joyce Insurance Professional

”

If you do not have coverage in place by 01/01/2014 you will face a financial penalty.

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//////// Local Event

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Murrieta Auto Services /////////

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//////// Students of the Month

SEPTEMBER SENIORS RECOGNIZED Dean Suchy, Vista Murrieta High School Kezia Cunalata, Murrieta Mesa High School Josiah Nauert, Calvary Murrieta Christian High School Allison McNeel, River Springs Charter School Suchi Amin, Murrieta Valley High School (see Suchi’s story on page 27)

E

ach month a senior from each of five Murrieta high schools is recognized for their hard work and dedication. Many of these students are at the top of their class academically or involved in sports or leadership while others have overcome difficult challenges in order to succeed. Often Kleenex is necessary when those gathered hear what some of these students have had to overcome. This program recognizes effort and sees these students as future leaders.

At the monthly event students share personal stories of

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OCTOBER SENIORS RECOGNIZED Dominique Conway, Murrieta Mesa High School Yasmeen Eid, Vista Murrieta High School Michael Robles, Murrieta Valley High School Shiloh Valdez Wolfe, River Springs Charter School Jessica Bolouri-Rad, Creekside High School Keimi Fujii, Calvary Murrieta High School

their most important life lesson, how they plan to ‘pay it forward’ when they return from college and stories of victory through challenging life circumstances. Students receive numerous gift certificates from community businesses along with certificates of recognition, congratulations and encouragement from local, county, state and federal dignitaries.

For more information please call Margaret D. Jones, Chair of the Murrieta Student of the Month Program at (951) 677-4856.

Rising Star /////////

Suchi Amin:

A Leader with a Purpose “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” ~Gandhi Not many average teens today are actively trying to change their world for the better. But, Suchi Amin is not your average 17-year-old, and her drive comes from an unusual place. Suchi has been traveling to India every few years since childhood. During a visit in ninth grade, something changed in her. “It was then that I could understand,” explains Suchi, “not all families lived as Americans did.”

Suchi watched children in tattered clothes, playing in the dirt outside of her grandmother’s house in India. “They didn’t have anywhere to go,” she recalls.

Her heart was touched with a strong desire to serve those children who had nothing. Suchi decided, on that trip, that she wanted to become a pediatrician to be able to help children with no resources. Her hope is to someday work with the organization called Doctors Without Borders.

From the time she and her sister, Shruti, were toddlers, their parents taught them to be mindful of the needs and feelings of others. They have always saved their outgrown clothing to bring to India on their visits. Even now, Suchi creates 3-D greeting cards, which she sells to raise money for things like vitamins, first-aid, school supplies, and toiletries in order to give to the poor in India. She and her sister, also, save their Halloween candy because they love to watch the children’s faces light up when they hand it out.

To the poor in India, it is a luxury, since every coin must be used for true necessities.

Suchi is also doing her best to help out in her community. Her amazing time-management ability allows her to be involved in multiple activities including ASB leadership, Science Olympiad Team, Youth Advisory Committee, National Honors Society, California Scholarship Federation, varsity tennis, teaching piano to children, and volunteering at a hospital. She has over 550 hours of community service

accumulated during high school, and holds a 4.4 cumulative GPA so far.

Along with all of this, Suchi remains dedicated to her dream of working as a pediatrician. In preparation for her future, Suchi has started assisting with research at a local medical center. Her father has provided an excellent role model, as well. Dr. Jatin Amin, a cardiologist, has allowed his daughter to shadow him during rounds since she was six years old.

However, Suchi’s confidence and leadership abilities were not always so strong. In sixth grade, Suchi was subject to teasing and bullying and ate lunch alone. One day a girl from ASB (Associated Student Body) invited Suchi to eat with her and some friends. She ate at that table for the rest of the school year. What’s more, Suchi’s newfound friendships led her to become an active leader in ASB. As this year’s ASB president at Murrieta Valley High School, Suchi has the ability to help others. She dons a fairy outfit and grants wishes to fellow students at school assemblies; this is a far cry from the timid girl she once was.

During registration, she had kids fill out a survey in which one question asked, “If you could have one wish, what would it be?” One girl wished for her dearly departed pet parrot. A parrot wasn’t in the budget, but Suchi presented this girl with a new pet parakeet (cage and all) in front of the entire school.

Suchi is thoughtful and caring, with a great deal of maturity. Witnessing the poverty in India and the experience of being accepted among her peers after years of exclusion has amplified her need to make a difference in the world. Suchi makes small steps here where she can, but, eventually, on a larger scale, she hopes to make a big impact working for Doctors without Borders.

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//////// Community Corner

Positive Music from Murrieta Based Band

Ascension, a Murrieta-based band recently won the Band Wars hosted at the Vault in Temecula. “This was really their first time out,� says manager Bryan Lee. The group formed in February 2013 and writes positive lyrics with no place for foul language. Band members range from 18-21 years old and include guitarist/singer, Kyle Hudson; drummer, Anthony Necerato; lead guitarist, Zachary Dismukes; and basist/vocalist, Timothy Chafin. It’s terrific to see that there is a fan base that will support positive music in an industry that seems rather dark. www.facebook.com/TheAscensionBand

Murrieta: Eighth Safest City in the U.S.

Murrieta has long been on the list of the nations safest cities, but a 2012 crime report from an FBI survey ranks our city as the eighth safest city in the U.S. Cities with a population over 100,000 were compared and our city along with 5 other California towns ranked in the top 10.

Even more comforting, is knowing that Murrieta had the second number of violent crimes in the nation. Temecula joined us in the 10 cities ranked lowest in violent crimes at number seven. Find the report at www.fbi.gov 28

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Giving the Gift of Joy

This is the season for giving and the Salvation Army Adopt-A-Family program is a perfect way to help those in need. The program matches families in need of helping hand with generous sponsors to assist in providing a Christmas. Families are screened through an application process and selected based on their circumstance and needs. Sponsors are given gift guides that include options of toys, clothing, & household items and gift cards for a holiday dinner. The base cost for a family of four starts at $200.

Many participants in the program have struggled through difficulties such as divorce or job loss, and this gesture of giving can get them through a challenging time with dignity and normalcy. Others live below the poverty line and day-to-day expenses are challenging, let alone the expense of the holidays.

Sponsors come in many shapes and sizes. They can be individuals, families, social groups, businesses or large corporations. When an Adopt-A-Family match is made, the family information is sent to the sponsor along with a wish list.

The Salvation Army distributes the items to adopted families the week prior to Christmas ensuring joyous holiday for all.

Contact: Major LeAnn Trimmer leann.trimmer@usw.salvationarmy.org To join the program, please call: (951) 677-1324

Community ///////// Corner

Flags for 1 Critical Heart Field of Honor Attack Care Southwest Riverside County’s st

Loma Linda University Medical Center in Murrieta was recently accredited to treat the most lethal type of heart attacks. This is great news for the community as this allows a person suffering from this type of heart attack to be treated more quickly. Before now, the closest hospital able to treat a STEMI heart attack was 30-45 minutes away. A STEMI heart attack means there is a blockage in the coronary artery that deprives the heart muscle of oxygen and the muscle starts to die.

Quicker treatment means less damage to the heart.

STEMI heart attack is not always sudden because the blockage may be only partial. In this case there may be days or weeks of symptoms including: 1) Unexplainable fatigue 2) A feeling of heartburn 3) A general feeling of malaise Often people with these symptoms are embarrassed to call 911. These symptoms should not be ignored; call 911 or go to the emergency room. Once the artery is fully blocked, there is usually sudden pain and you must act quickly.

LLUMC serves a broad area in which 20-30,000 STEMI heart attacks are reported per month.

An unmatched spectacular sight -- 2,013 full-sized American flags -- will be on display in Murrieta’s Town Square Park from Saturday, Nov. 9 through Saturday, Nov. 16. The Murrieta Field of Honor – celebrating its fifth year – recognizes those who served or are serving in the United States armed forces, in law enforcement, fire and other first responder posts as well as other personal heroes.

Several special events are planned during the week the flags are flying. The City’s annual Veteran’s Day parade will be held Monday, Nov. 11, starting at 10 a.m. Opening day ceremonies are scheduled for 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9, and the day will also honor first responders. Thank you to the Murrieta Rotary Club for putting together such a touching display.

Flags can be purchased on the Field of Honor website, www.murrietafieldofhonor.com, from nonprofit affiliates or by going to the Field of Honor during the week it is on display.

Rotary Club of Murrieta Patsy Orr, President - 951-693-5589 Linda Dozier, PR Director Linda_dozier@verizon.net 951-679-4782; 310-594-4437 (cell)

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Accent /////////

I do NOT have an accent!

by Lois Templin I’m from the Midwest, born and raised, and I do not have an accent.

People from the south have accents.

People from the east have accents.

And people from the west definitely have accents. But in Minnesota, we’re right in the middle, and except for a few people in the far north of the state who still have a bit of a Scandinavian brogue (possibly some members of my extended family, but not me), the rest of us don’t have accents.

When I first met my husband, he was still fresh from California, and he definitely had a West Coast accent. I pointed this out to him the first time I heard him say the word “couch.” It came out more like cay-ouch, like he was starting to say cat, but then cut off to say ouch.

“Cay-ouch.” Definitely an accent.

Now, after 42 years in Minnesota, 20 of them with my California-boy, we’ve moved to Southern California. Home-sweethome for my husband. So Cal, where West Coast accents abound, along with suntans, palm trees, and surfboards strapped to car roofs.

So how is it, on my first full day in Southern California, that just from saying “Venti unsweetened black iced tea, please,” the woman behind the counter at Starbucks asked “Where are you from?” Then she smiled at me and said “You’re from the Midwest. Wisconsin?

Minnesota?” I responded with Minnesota, my eyes wide with surprise. “How did you know that?”

I asked, thinking maybe it was because I said “please.”

And then she said it: “You have an accent.”

I do not have an accent! Given a glass of wine and a little warm up, I can do a mean impression of Marge Gunderson from Fargo, but you can betcha’ I don’t speak like that the rest of the time. Marge and I may share some other Scandinavian traits, like not wanting to offend anyone no matter how uncomfortable they are making us, but we don’t share an accent.

So when the woman from Starbucks accused me of having an accent, I promptly responded with, “No, I don’t! We don’t have accents in Minnesota.” The “o” may have

been just a smidge long in “don’t,” and sometimes I think I might say “Minnesow-ta,” but I didn’t think it was that obvious.

Until the woman imitated me with her lips in a perfect O and said “You doe-en’t?” Then she smiled and winked.

What could I do but concede?

“Maybe I do sometimes,” I said through tight lips. Then I gave her my best Minnesota-nice smile and thanked her for my iced tea.

I should have asked her to say “couch.”

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