HMN - July 2026

July/Aug 2026

NEWS

Vol 10 No 4

District 5 Supervisor Jim Desmond Ribbon cutting ceremony

Deer Springs Fire Protection District Celebrates Grand Opening of New Fire Station 2

By Michelle Zipse/Resident On Saturday, June 13, the Deer Springs Fire Protection District welcomed community members, elected officials, firefighters, and distinguished guests to celebrate the Grand Opening of the new Fire Station 2, one of three fire stations serving the district.The morning’s

festivities included an official bell ringing ceremony, remarks from local leaders and fire officials, a ribbon cutting, and guided tours of the new three-bay fire station. The state-of-the-art facility will serve as both a home and workplace for firefighters while also functioning as a command center during major

emergencies.

The new station is located at 1321 Deer Springs Road in San Marcos, on the same property where the district’s previous Station 2 stood. The original facility consisted of several portable buildings on land that was donated to the fire district in 1982. After

years of planning and collaboration, Deer Springs Fire Protection District secured the funding and approvals needed to construct a permanent fire station. District officials credited the efforts of retired State Assemblywoman Marie Waldron, Fifth District Supervisor Jim Desmond, and numerous community partners for helping make the project a reality.

District Fire Chief Thomas Shoots welcomed attendees and thanked the public for their support before introducing Deer Springs Fire ProtecFIRE STATION See Page 2

Grand Marshal Royce Williams enjoys seeing parade For maybe the first time in the history of te Valley Center Western Days parade, Saturday morning May 23, the grand marshal got to see the parade itself.

Usually, the grand marshal, because he is riding near the front, doesn’t get to see the entries. That changed when Grand Marshal Royce Williams, Medal of Honor winner, was given a tour of the parade by his driver, Paul Majchrzak.

Majchrzak described the mood of the 101-year-old retired Navy captain: “He thoroughly enjoyed himself yesterday. It turns out he was very comfortable in my passenger seat. And didn’t want to leave until it got too hot in the sun.”

Later: “At the end of the parade, I drove back out of fire station into middle of intersection at Lilac. The police patrol smiled at us as we sat in middle of intersection pointing north looking at parade coming at us.”

Majchrzak asked Royce if he wanted to see more of the parade. “And he gleefully said yes. So I drove us back out there. Which was great because it allowed all sorts of veterans to walk over and thank him. Plus we had visits from John Franklin and Rebecca Jones. She actually pulled her horse up next to my car, got off and hugged Royce. It was so cool.”

Majchrzak added, “I think this should become a tradition. The Grand Marshal never sees the parade itself. Royce LOVED seeing all the bands. And the dancing horses. And the floats. The ‘front row’ seats were awesome.”

He concluded, “If I happened to drive the Grand Marshal again, like I did with Lori [Gonzalez] last year, I will do this again. The Grand Marshal deserves to see parade since they never see much at all.”

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A tickled Grand Marshal Royce Williams is greeted by San Marcos Mayor Rebecca Jones, who got off her horse to give him a hug.

2 — Hidden Meadows News • July/Aug 2026 www.HiddenMeadows.news

HM neighbors at the opening ceremony FIRE STATION From Page 1

tion District Board President Mark Jackson. Jackson spoke about the importance of the new station and the improvements it will bring to the district and surrounding communities. He also recognized the many individuals and organizations involved in the project, including lead architect Christie Jewett of COAR (Community Architects).

COAR partnered with EC Construction Company to design and build the modern facility. Cal Fire Assistant Chief Robert Reynolds highlighted the long-standing partnership between Deer Springs Fire Protection District and Cal Fire, which began in 1994. Through a cooperative agreement, Cal Fire staffs district fire stations and provides emergency services throughout the region.

“This station is the perfect example of what can happen when local, county, and state agencies work to-

wards a common goal,” Reynolds said. “Deer Springs Fire provides local governance and community leadership, Cal Fire provides the personnel, operational support, and wildfire protection, and the San Diego County Fire helps strengthen regional response capabilities and specialized rescue equipment and resources. Each agency brings something different to the table.”

Supervisor Jim Desmond emphasized the broader significance of the project.

“Today is about more than just the ribbon cutting of a new building,” Desmond said. “It’s about the safety of the people who live in North County and the future of North County.”

Following the remarks, Fire Captain Anthony Watters of Station 2 rang the ceremonial bell. Dignitaries gathered for photographs before retired Assemblywoman Marie Waldron officially cut the ribbon.

After the ceremony, visitors toured the facility and met firefighters who serve the region. Representatives from the Deer Springs Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and the Deer Springs Fire Safety Council staffed informational booths and shared resources with residents. CERT members encouraged community members to participate in volunteer training programs and become involved in emergency preparedness efforts.

The new station includes numerous features designed to support firefighter health, safety, and operational readiness. The facility houses fire engines, search-andrescue equipment, and specialized emergency response resources.

It also includes crew quarters, a workout room, and the ability to serve as a command center during major incidents.

To ensure continuity during emergencies, the station is equipped

with a backup generator that can maintain operations during power outages.The building was also designed with firefighter health in mind. Climate-controlled and well insulated, the station incorporates specialized ventilation systems that remove vehicle exhaust and other contaminants from the building, helping reduce exposure to harmful fumes and chemicals linked to cancer and respiratory illnesses.

A key component of the new station is its advanced fire alerting technology. Deer Springs Fire Protection District partnered with Radio Mobile, a local company that has worked with the district on several projects, to install a sophisticated alerting system that notifies personnel when emergency calls are dispatched.The system can selectively alert only the firefighters needed for a particular response, minimizing disruptions throughout the station.

Notifications begin with tones and gradually escalate through lighting and other alert mechanisms, helping personnel transition safely from rest to response mode.Radio Mobile also integrated communications technology within district vehicles, allowing dispatch information to be transmitted directly to iPads carried by firefighters. This ensures personnel continue receiving emergency alerts even when they are away from the station.

The new Fire Station 2 represents a significant investment in public safety and emergency preparedness for North County communities.

Deer Springs Fire Protection District serves approximately 13,000 residents and responds to emergencies throughout portions of Valley Center, Escondido, San Marcos, and surrounding areas across San Diego County.As residents toured the facility and met the firefighters who serve them, the event showcased not only a new building but also a continuing commitment to protecting the communities of North County for generations to come.

Community Foundation Update By: Hidden Meadows Community Foundation

We are coming to the close of the Hidden Meadows Community Foundation’s annual fundraising drive for 2026. So far, the returns have been decent, and we have received just a little under $10,000 in contributions from 80+ households in Hidden Meadows and Rim Rock. On behalf of the Foundation Board of Directors and the community at large we want to sincerely thank all who contributed. Your donations are essential in allowing us to provide ongoing support for four areas of community life: Scholarships, Beautification, Community Events and Neighbors Helping Neighbors.

expand our reach by engaging new donors - residents who have not participated in the past – and encouraging them to support this effort. While we hugely appreciate our regular supporters, those folks make up less than 10% of the households in Hidden Meadows/ Rimrock. If you are reading this article and have not donated previously, please consider making a small contribution. Your support is needed if we are going to fulfill our charter and “help our neighborhood thrive by connecting neighbors, preserving what makes it special, and supporting the people who make it home”.

Although $10K is a good number, that still leaves us some thousands of dollars below the historical average, and what is necessary to support traditional program spending. We hope to close that gap in the next 60 days.

We will be reaching out directly to some of our regular donors whom we haven’t heard from yet. More importantly our hope is to

At the foundation we feel we have an obligation to ensure the funds you generously contribute are efficiently spent on programs which provide benefit to the community. In calendar year 2025 Foundation expenses totaled $22,353 with 86% of the spending returned directly to the community. Program expenses for 2025 totaled $19,150 includ-

ing $7,500 for scholarships granted, $5,150 spent on median maintenance, $3,000 for Neighbors Helping Neighbors grants and $3,499 on community events. 2025 events included the Spring Kids Carnival, Volunteer Appreciation, July 4th Celebration, Vintage Car Show, Trunk or Treat, Turkey Trot, Toys for Tots, and various Seller’s Faires.

An additional $3,203 was spent on administration, the majority of that going for insurance $1,950 (expensive but necessary), and the remainder: $623 for the annual fundraising drive, $210 for rental of the Foundation P.O. box, $203 on website expenses and $217 for other admin.

Thanks again to all who contributed this year and to those who may have missed the solicitation but still desire to help, you can always donate by visiting our website https://hiddenmeadowsfoundation.org.

Hidden Meadows News • July/Aug 2026 www.HiddenMeadows.news — 3

HMGC at Linda Collins’ yard. Linda Collings with her dog, Owen.

HMGC Tours Linda Collin’s Mostly Native Garden

By Pat Tanabe/Resident At the Hidden Meadows Garden Club’s June event, members toured Linda Collin’s 4.5-acre property, where a once largely ornamental landscape is steadily being transformed into a habitat-rich native garden. Collin has begun replacing succulents, cacti and traditional ornamentals with California native plants in the front yard and San Diego County natives in the back, creating a landscape designed to conserve water while supporting birds, insects and other wildlife.

During the tour, Collin shared information about the plants growing across her expansive property, including their value as food sources, their flower colors, drought tolerance, propagation methods, traditional uses and lesser-known facts.

She also challenged a common misconception: native plants, she noted, can be both practical and ornamental.

Among the flowering natives featured were three types of native sunflowers—San Diego sunflower, California sunflower and canyon sunflower—as well as California fuchsia, often described as a hummingbird “fast food stop” because it blooms in late summer when many other native plants are dormant. Red flowering buckwheat supports blue butterflies, seedeating birds and beneficial predators, while woolly blue curls attract hummingbirds and bumblebees and

are known as fire followers, with seeds that respond to heat or smoke from wildfire. Other highlights included the brilliant orange California poppy, the state flower; bush poppy, with showy yellow blooms; monkeyflower, with red and yellow trumpet-shaped flowers; and ceanothus, or California lilac, whose blue flowers can produce a soapy lather when crushed with water.

The garden also includes Cleveland sage, black sage and white sage, plants valued for nectar, fragrance and traditional uses, along with chaparral mallow, chaparral yucca and common sunrose. Chaparral yucca stands out for its tall stalk of white flowers and fibers historically used for baskets and sandals, while common sunrose serves as an important host plant for the caterpillars of the Common Gray butterfly.

Beyond the flowering plants, Collin’s property features native shrubs and trees that offer wildlife support, erosion control and seasonal food. Mexican elderberry produces flowers and berries for birds, insects, animals and people, and has been nicknamed the “tree of music” because its stems have been used for flutes, whistles and blowguns. Mountain mahogany creates a silvery haze after flowering because of its feathery seed tails, while sugar bush provides evergreen habitat and edible sugary fruit. California sagebrush offers aromatic foliage and key habitat for

the federally threatened California gnatcatcher, and Mission manzanita is valued for its form, flowers and bark.

Other native shrubs and trees on the tour included Engelmann oak, a relict species and primary host for acorn woodpeckers; lemonade berry, known for drought tolerance and sour red berries; toyon, whose bright red winter berries provide important food for wildlife; and summer holly, with white flowers and red berries. Hollyleaf cherry was noted as a cornerstone of California chaparral and a useful choice for defensible-space landscaping, while hollyleaf redberry provides high-energy berries for birds and

dense, protective nesting sites.

Hoaryleaf ceanothus adds another benefit with its ability to fix nitrogen, enriching the soil for nearby plants.

Collin’s garden tour offered members both inspiration and practical guidance for adding native plants to their own landscapes. Known for generously sharing information, clippings and seedlings, she also recommended the San Diego Native Plant Sale, hosted by the San Diego Chapter of the California Native Plant Society, and Moosa Creek Nursery as sources for native plants.

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HIDDEN MEADOWS NEWS Founded 2017

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Hidden Meadows News is a free monthly publication mailed directly to approximately 1700 addresses within and near the Hidden Meadows area of postal route 92026. Hidden Meadows News is published in affiliation with the community of Hidden Meadows and Hidden Meadows Community Foundation. Our liability for errors and omissions on ads is limited to the price of the ad for a single issue run.

Opinions expressed by Hidden Meadows Community Foundation, columnists and articles are those of the writers and not necessarily those of the newspaper.

Accuracy of content submitted to Hidden Meadows News by Hidden Meadows Community Foundation is the responsibility of Hidden Meadows Community Foundation. Hidden Meadows News reserves the right to edit any content provided to the newspaper. Contact Hidden Meadows News with any questions.

SUBMIT CONTENT Deadline for local article submission: 20th of the month for the next issue. Photographs submitted for publication should be hi-resolution (300DPI), unmodified originals, jpeg format. We cannot accept photos taken from social media sites such as Facebook. Email content and photos to LocalEditor@HiddenMeadows.news Advertising Joshua Sibelius Advertising@HiddenMeadows.news

4 — Hidden Meadows News • July/Aug 2026 www.HiddenMeadows.news

2026 HIDDEN MEADOWS COMMUNITY FOUNDATION’S SCHEDULED EVENTS FOR Hidden Meadows and Rim Rock Residents Please visit our Website at www.hiddenmeadowsfoundation.org for additional information regarding Events and Programs here in the Meadows.

Donations can be made via Zelle at HMCFDonate@yahoo.com or www.HiddenMeadows.news/donate EXTRA, EXTRA READ ALL ABOUT IT

_______________________________________________________________ HMCF 4th of July Event • 10am -1pm Location: Home Smart, The Market and Side Yard Parking Lots

HMCF Hot August Bingo Night Fundraiser Wednesday, August 19th • 5pm – 8pm Location : Side Yard Public House _______________________________________________________________ HMCF Maker’s Market, Saturday September 19th • 10am - 1pm Location to be determined Fun for all local Hidden Meadows and Rim Rock members, local businesses and vendors.

If you would like to participate as a Hidden Meadows vendor, please contact Dawn at the HMSellersFaire@gmail.com _______________________________________________________________ Additional Events being planned *Trunk or Treat -Saturday, October 24th - 10am – Noon *Turkey Trot - Thursday, November 26th - 8am *Toys for Tots/Car Show Saturday, December 5th - 10am – Noon

Native Elderberry, a Treat for Anything that Eats

By Linda Collings/resident To talk about elderberries, I need to tell you about the shaggy bush I found in my yard. I thought the leaf was interesting. It looked a lot like a rose leaf, but it never had rose flowers. I almost took it out. Boy, am I glad I didn't take it out.

One day a friend of mine came over and told me it was Mexican Elderberry or blue elderberry and my eyes popped open. I know Elderberry from the health food stores!

Elderberry syrup is reputed to be good for boosting the immune system. It's often called Sambucus, which is its botanical name. I take it whenever I have a cold or the flu to, theoretically, get well quicker. The Elderberry that is generally used in those syrups is a black elderberry.

The European black elderberry has high levels of flavonoids. Mine is blue elderberry, which is high in anthocyanins. These also boost the immune system and help manage inflammation.

It wasn't until more recently when I started working with native plants that I really learned about the Mexican Elderberry and how beneficial it is. It's an amazing plant for the environment supporting pollinators of all kinds, birds, insects, and animals because of its flowers and its fruit. In the spring, FebruaryMarch, it has lacy clusters of tiny

white flowers that are very pretty.

It will be early summer before the fruit is ripe. The berries look like tiny blueberries. While they can be eaten raw, mine have a slightly bitter edge. They are tastier when cooked into muffins and breads or cooked down into syrups and jams.

They can also be used in making beer. It is important to avoid high heat, which could destroy the health benefits. (Note: Many other elderberries cannot be eaten!)

It is a challenge to get enough berries to do anything because the critters get there faster than you can to eat the berries. My tree is usually loaded with berries, and I can get a few handfuls from the part of the tree that I can reach. This year I may see if I can get enough to make some muffins.

The Blue Elderberry is a very large bush or tree and can reach 30 ft.

But it can be trimmed to most any size. It is a low maintenance and low water California native plant.

In locations where they receive no water, they will drop their leaves during the peak summer heat recovering after the first rain. (Dropping leaves or having branches die back is very common among our local chaparral native plants.)

So feed the birds! Feed nature!

Plant an elderberry!

Hidden Meadows News • July/Aug 2026 www.HiddenMeadows.news — 5

NOTEABLE NEIGHBORS.. Get to know Vickey and Jeff Ciarlanti!

Interview by E.M. Trivoli, resident Vickey and Jeff are some of those long-term, involved neighbors who seem to be built into the very framework of Hidden Meadows. They moved here 24 years ago from the San Jose area, and right away loved the views, peaceful atmosphere, and community events that brought (and continue to bring!) neighbors together.

Here’s a little Q & A with this fun-loving, involved couple!

Why did you and Jeff decide to buy here?

The home and area just checked all our boxes.

A calmer pace; plenty of space but not far from freeways either. Breathing room, you know?

We’ve got almost 2 acres – perfect for my farm animals, AND gardening – a big passion of mine Wait.. Farm animals?!

Yes, we’ve got our dog Gino, Charger the horse, our goat Oreo… and a bunch of laying hens.

I’ve heard you run a daycare. Tell me about that.

I’ve been a licensed childcare provider – for children 2 months to 5 years - since 2009. Mine is a “different kind of daycare”; safe, nurturing and educational. With all the engaging, handson activities, the children are happy and thriving; learning so many independent skills so they’re ready for what’s next.

And Jeff? He and his team did my cabinets and ceilings awhile back. What can you tell me about “Jeff the Painter”?

He’s been a painting contractor for over 40 years! Painting, sheetwork, wood repair.. big and small jobs. He takes a lot of pride in his work; using quality products and making sure the customer is happy; whether it’s a home or a commercial project.

Besides your businesses…, you’re everywhere in Hidden Meadows. Really involved in the community.

Yes I’m a VP with the Hidden Meadows Community Foundation. My main focus is the prepping and planning of all the events you read about. Trunk or Treat, 4th of July, Scholarship Program, Toys for Tots… all of it. We just did the 2026 “Spring Fling” and that was a big success! I help establish and maintain relationships with local businesses, and I’m always grateful for the volunteers. It takes a village to pull off these events! It’s a lot of work but I love it. I also enjoy being on the Foundation’s Welcome Committee; sharing my enthusiasm for Hidden Meadows with new residents.. the “newbies”. 12 Is Jeff involved as well, with the events?

What does he like to do?

You’ll always see Jeff around, he’s super supportive. My right-hand man! He loves road trips; exploring all over California.

As long-term residents, what do you think Hidden Meadows could improve on?

We’d love to see a nice, “garden-park” type place where families can just gather and enjoy spending time together. Maybe somewhere for the kids to play. Wouldn’t that be cool?

What does FREE TIME look like?

You know, after spending all week with “my kiddos”, it’s ADULT TIME on the weekends— social events and seeing friends and family.

We’ve got 2 children and 2 grandchildren. Since I work from home it’s a treat to “get off the hill”, so sometimes I hit up The Sideyard and Boulder Oaks. We always have fun at Trivia! Our friends Dave and Awara run that. (I second that! Me and my team have won a couple times..)

Evacuate!

By Linda Collins/Resident

That is a dreaded word up here in fire country. But we have heard it here in Hidden Meadows.

In the 28 years we’ve lived here, we have had 2 really scary incidents. The first was a warning to prepare to evacuate, which didn’t happen. Whew! The second, in 2007, was an evacuation notice. Go now!

What we learned from the first incident is that we had no idea what to take or how to prepare.

In a very short amount of time, you need to GET OUT! After that first scare, neighbors were comparing notes on the things they loaded up. I stood in my house looking around to try to decide what was important to take. I chose to box up all my books in Spanish. If the fire had been more threatening, there wouldn’t have been time to think. Another friend of mine loaded up his snow shoes. I

Jeff and Vickey Ciarlanti Vickey, what’s something people would be surprised to learn about you?

I was born in San Francisco, which isn’t unusual, but I ran cattle with my father in Napa for 14 years.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?

“Embrace your discomfort for growth, and prioritize action over perfection” (I like that! Sometimes it’s better to be DONE than be perfect).

And, what’s YOUR best advice to others?

Don’t confuse the obvious! Believe in – and be true to – yourself. You’re the driver of your own bus.

guess he was thinking he would need them if the ash fall was too heavy.

So the next time we were more prepared. But we still had a lot to learn. I now have a room-byroom list with critical items and Salton Sea and I had no signal! an “if there is time” list. I start Sometimes the best laid plans . . . with the Laundry room pick- What did we learn? By the time ing up the dog leash and some we hit Rainbow, the sky was clear snacks to help keep him calm. and there was no sign of a fire. no traffic management at Gopher Some bottled water from the All the store, hotels, services you Canyon, so cars were stacked up pantry. A change of clothes and might need were available. So for miles. Had the fire moved just critical meds from the bedroom no need to take food or much of a little further south, they would and bath. And, now in plastic anything. Keep it light and GET have been sitting ducks. easy-to-carry boxes some critical OUT! Another thing we learned As I drove north on the freedocuments and photo albums. was to get out early. Don’t drag way (we were only allowed to go Almost any document is avail- your feet. I got out fairly easily, north due to the fires in Rancho able on the internet these days. but people who left later were Bernardo), we could see the fire I converted most my photos stacked up on Mountain Mead- on both sides of the freeway. We to online photo albums. But I ow Road from the freeway all could feel the heat even being grabbed my trust and the couple the way back to the golf course. three lanes over. bins that I’ve set up for emergen- And don’t think you’re smart tak- It’s been a while since the last cies. And, I grabbed my laptop. ing some backroad. My husband scare, but don’t rest too easy. Be A laptop is a lot easier to grab went through Rimrock to get out. prepared! than a desktop model.

He’d stayed to help a neighbor The Fire Safe Council has lots And don’t forget your cell load his horse. When they got of good information available phone! I had mine. But we went to the frontage road, they were and occasionally has workshops. out to stay with relatives at the forced to go north. There was https://www.dsfsc.org/

6 — Hidden Meadows News • July/Aug 2026 www.HiddenMeadows.news

HMGC at Mary Truby’s

Hidden Meadows Garden Club Tour of Local Gardens

By Idalia Rewar The Hidden Meadows Garden Club event this month was touring 3 local gardens.

Tour #1 Our first garden was a property where the resident has lived for 6 years. The property consists of 4 acres with lots of trees and vegetation. Walking around for me was a difficult – up and down, rocks, and turns, but there were many ladies younger than me that extended their arm for me to hold onto. Gracias. We walked around and were in an area where some goats were waiting to welcome us. Someone asked “what are their names? “and the answer was “Goat #1 and Goat #2”. The resident fed them some monkey bush, and they were happy. As we were walking admiring all the vegetation and trees, a “sausage tree” was pointed out. Never hearing about such a tree, I went on Google - “The sausage tree (Kigelia africana) is a sub-Saharan African tree known for producing long, poisonous, sausage-shaped woody fruits that hang from its branches.

Thriving near water, it features dark red, nighttime-blooming flowers and is used in traditional medicine, for making local beer, and as a medicinal, culinary, or construction resource. The garden contained many magnificent rocky areas, viewpoints and areas for sports. On to the next tour.

Tour #2 – Mary Truby’s garden Situated on the other side of Hidden Meadows close to Cougar Pass is the next stop on our tour - Mary Truby’s home. Mary has lived in her home for 42 years.

At that time, there were no other houses around. She was a real pioneer when she bought 5 acres and moved in with her 6-month-old baby. She still marvels at the progress she has made over the years.

We then walked to an area that she developed including the mosaic pathways. Her circular garden area has a mosaic pathway of flagstones salvaged from a neighbor’s unused flagstone. This circular garden is filled with plants and flowers. It

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is a peaceful little park in which to relax. Mary claims the property is

still “a work in progress”. We went around the corner where there’s

a patio that she also created from flagstone. A huge 50-year-old fern GARDEN CLUB See Page 7

Hidden Meadows News • July/Aug 2026 www.HiddenMeadows.news — 7 GARDEN CLUB From Page 6

originally belonging to her mother sits in a wine barrel at the entrance.

Across from this fern is a 40-yearold fern that had belonged to her sister. Across from her home’s entrance are two tall palm trees hugging a 50-year-old staghorn fern, where all the members gathered smiling to take a group photo. The property also has a 21-tree grove

of fruit trees and views of Escondido. She also built a southwestern style detached garage. The pathway around this structure is a flagstone mosaic rattlesnake with four stone rattles! Mary has spent years developing this truly remarkable garden and mosaic flagstone patios and paths from a property that was a complete blank slate when she purchased it.

GARDEN CLUB See Page 9

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8 — Hidden Meadows News • July/Aug 2026 www.HiddenMeadows.news

A Place That Sparks Curiosity

Visitors are often struck by the number of tools and machines in the shop.

For Ernesto, those questions are part of the fun. “They always ask what the machines do,” he said. “I enjoy explaining the tools and giving people a little tour.”

From Hobby to Lifelong Craft

Today, Ernesto is working on custom doors for a Hidden Meadows customer while also wrapping up another kitchen project. After nearly three decades in the trade, the work still feels meaningful to him.

“It started as a job about 27 years ago,” he explained. “A friend introduced me to woodworking. Before that, I did small projects as a hobby, but once I started working in the industry, I learned more every day and really started enjoying it.”

A Quick Laugh Before We Left

Before wrapping up, I asked Ernesto what the most unusual thing in his workshop might be. Without hesitation, he smiled and answered, “My neighbor.”

It may have been the quickest answer of the day—and the perfect way to end the visit.

Ernesto Loya in his garage workshop

What’s In Your Garage

By Pete Tomasek/Resident Every neighborhood has stories tucked behind garage doors, sheds, and workshop benches. In this new feature, we’re highlighting Hidden Meadows neighbors with talents, hobbies, and creative spaces worth sharing.

Neighbor Spotlight: Loya’s Woodworking Workshop

Until Next Time

And with that, we wrapped up the first edition of What’s in Your Garage?

Thank you, Ernesto, for opening your workshop and sharing a little of your story. Let’s catch up again soon at the Side Yard Public House.

Know a Neighbor We Should Feature?

If you know someone in Hidden Meadows with a talent, hobby, collection, workshop, or creative space worth sharing, we would love to hear about it. This feature is all about celebrating the people and stories that make our community special.

To contact Ernesto, please feel free to reach out to me for his information.

Petetomaszek@gmail.com | 760.815.2959

For the first edition of What’s in Your Garage? - I had the pleasure of visiting the workshop of my friend and neighbor, Ernesto. Behind the garage door, I found the warm scent of cedar and redwood, a well-used collection of tools, and a friendly handshake waiting at the entrance.

Ernesto has called Hidden Meadows home for the past seven years after moving from San Pedro. When asked what he enjoys most about the community, he did not hesitate. “The people,” he said. “People are so great, kind, and friendly. That’s what I love here in this community.”

Inside the Workshop

Step inside Ernesto’s workshop and it is immediately clear that woodworking is more than a pastime. The space is filled with machines, hand tools, and projects in various stages of completion. From kitchens and cabinetry to tables, cutting boards, chairs, doors, and one-of-a-kind custom pieces, Ernesto builds just about anything made from wood.

“I enjoy doing woodwork,” Ernesto said. “Anything that’s related to wood, that’s what I do here.”

Craftsmanship Close to Home

Many Hidden Meadows residents may already know Ernesto from community events and local seller fairs, where he occasionally shares his handcrafted cutting boards, holiday decorations, and other wooden pieces. Around Christmas, he especially enjoys making ornaments and seasonal items that bring a handmade touch to the holidays.

A Buzz-Worthy Book for Hidden Meadows

By Linda Collins/resident If you enjoy the natural beauty of Hidden Meadows, you may love The ABCs of California’s Native Bees

by Krystle Hickman. Published in 2025, this visually stunning book takes readers on an A‑to‑Z journey through the remarkable diversity of California’s native bees—many of which are rarely noticed but play a vital role in healthy ecosystems.

Each letter of the alphabet highlights a different bee species, paired with close‑up photography and short, en-

gaging stories about how these bees live, where they nest, and the native plants they depend on. Unlike honeybees, many native bees are solitary, nesting in soil or resting inside flowers, and some rely on just one type of plant for pollen.

Written by National Geographic Explorer and community scientist Krystle Hickman, the book blends science, storytelling, and conservation in an approachable way for readers of all ages. It’s a wonderful reminder that the small pollina-

Linda Collins with The ABCs of California Native Bees tors we see around our homes and trails are essential—and worth protecting.

A thoughtful read for nature lov-

ers, gardeners, and families alike, and a perfect fit for our Hidden Meadows community.

Hidden Meadows News • July/Aug 2026 www.HiddenMeadows.news — 9

A Day of Mindfulness at Deer Park Monastery

By Pat Tanabe/Resident

Preparing for your visit

Nestled in the quiet hills of Escondido, Deer Park Monastery offers a monthly Day of Mindfulness – a pause from the pace of everyday life.

Rooted in the Plum Village tradition of Thích Nhất Hạnh, the day invites visitors to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with themselves and the world around them.

To support a harmonious atmosphere, the monastery recommends:

Michelle Zipse and I decided to visit Deer Park Monastery and participate in the Day of Mindfulness. I’ve always wondered about this monastery which I could see when hiking in Daley Ranch. I’ve also heard about it from friends who have attended their music festival. This music festival showcases live music performed at breathtaking natural locations throughout the 400-acre monastery. Attendees of the music festival also engage in mindful activities throughout the day - walking meditation as you progress from one performance to the next, mindful eating, land blessing, and sitting meditation to close the evening in silence.

A Day of Mindfulness is a retreat distilled into a single, nourishing day.

Whether someone is brand‑new to meditation or a long‑time practitioner, the experience is designed to be accessible, gentle, and deeply restorative. Participants practice being fully present—walking, breathing, listening, and eating with awareness.

The flow of the day typically includes: •

Walking Meditation — A slow, intentional walk through the monastery grounds, allowing each step to become an anchor of peace.

•

Dharma Talk — A teaching offered by a monastic, offering insight into mindful living and compassionate awareness. (dharma refers to ultimate truth or true nature of reality)

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Dharma Sharing — Small‑group reflection where participants speak from the heart and listen deeply.

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Mindful Lunch — A silent, plant‑based meal enjoyed in community.

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Bookshop Visit — Time to explore books and practice resources inspired by Thích Nhất Hạnh’s teachings.

The day usually concludes early in the afternoon, leaving participants refreshed and grounded.

Why People Return Visitors often describe the Day of Mindfulness as a reset—a chance to step out of their day-to-day life and into clarity. The combination of silence, nature, and community creates a rare kind of spaciousness. Many leave with a renewed sense of ease and a reminder that peace is available in each moment.

On select Sundays, Deer Park offers a Children’s Program for ages 6–12, giving young practitioners a joyful introduction to mindfulness through stories, nature, and creative activities.

GARDEN CLUB From Page 7

Tour #3 – Faraj and Yasuko Tavangari’s garden Faraj has a fantastic home and grounds. Around the house, he has several tomato gardens. There are tomatoes growing hydroponically, as well as tomatoes growing in ground and in several different “test gardens”. There are raised garden beds where basil, parsley, onions, and herbs are thriving. The backyard has avocado, orange, lemon and other fruit trees growing. They have many areas where they are experimenting with cherry trees or are growing saplings of fruit trees.

There were also tiny Japanese maples with which they are trying to start bonsai trees. What great gardeners are the Tavangaris’!

Lunch & Plant Exchange – Kim Marin’s home Finally, our last stop was at Kim Marin’s house. Aahh, so nice to get a rest. Kim had a huge spread awaiting us. She really goes all the way out to please all –turkey and tuna croissant sandwiches, Caesar salad, huge bowl of blueberries

and strawberries, chips, cookies and other sweets for dessert, and drinks. Some members sat outside and enjoyed the food and the fantastic view from the house. Many members brought plant clippings, fruit and/or seeds for exchange.

Our big thanks go to Pat Tanabe and Kim Marin for their coordination and putting this event together, and to all the members who outdid themselves. The sun was hot and some terrain uneven, but they are like Agent 007 – an assignment is given “Tour Gardens”, and they go at it - nothing stops these ladies from a horticulture adventure. A bucketful of thanks to the garden tour hosts for giving us tours of their beautiful gardens and thank you for all your hard work to make your gardens look so spectacular. These tours provide aesthetic enjoyment and of course environmental improvement to the community. If you are interested in joining the Hidden Meadows Garden Club, e-mail Kim Marin at Kimgroggmarin@gmail.com or pat.tanabe@3zconsulting.com.

•

Modest Clothing that covers shoulders and knees

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Comfortable walking shoes

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Layers for changing weather

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A spirit of openness and curiosity

Offered by Donation There is no fee to attend. The monastery is sustained entirely by the generosity of visitors and friends who wish to support the continuation of the practice.

If you wish to find out about their events or learn more about the monastery, go to their website: https://deerparkmonastery.org/visit/events/.

I was impressed that there was no pressure to donate, purchase anything or sign up for paid retreats. The most difficult part of the day is to do activities in silence. It forces you to turn inwards and to think about your surroundings. I bought a purse embroidered with “Deer Park Monastery in the great hidden mountain” which I found amusing because we live in Hidden Meadows in Escondido which means hidden, concealed or secret. I am glad that I have found all of these hidden places and enjoyed a mindful day and live in a tranquil place!

10 — Hidden Meadows News • July/Aug 2026 www.HiddenMeadows.news

RESOURCES

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)

Hidden Meadows Neighborhood Watch

Contact Marc Weissman at 760-525-5170 or marcweissman11@gmail.com.

Deer Springs Fire Safe Council

Contact Steve Kerrin at 760-807-1141.

Please join our facebook group: Hidden Meadows Neighborhood Watch We’ll share neighborhood information, safety tips, and news of future events.

Contact Info: Erik Tyler 442-235-9060 erikdtyler@gmail.com

Community Sponsor Group

Contact Chairman Jim Chagala, at 760 751-2691 for more information.

Garden Club Contact Kim Marin kimgroggmarin@gmail.com or Pat Tanabe zlotanabe@gmail.com Hidden Meadows Bridge Group We play bridge at the MHA Pavilion every Wednesday from 10:00AM to 2:00PM. Please call Curt Bruce at 442-222-0821 if you’d like to join us.

Hidden Meadows Community Foundation (HMCF) Contact Michele Zipse at HMCF2023@gmail.com. www.hiddenmeadowsfoundation.org

HOMEOWNER ASSOCIATIONS The Meadows Homes Association (MHA) 760-749-7278 Rimrock Homeowners Association 760-749-4008 Hidden Meadows Ranch Homeowners Association 760-407-7575 Silverado Management Services Oak Meadows Glen Homeowners Association

HIDDEN MEADOWS ORGANIZATIONS

760-749-4796

April HMWSG Dinner: A Twist on Tradition

By Pat Tanabe/Resident For our April Hidden Meadows Women’s Social Group (HMWSG) dinner, we introduced a new element to the gathering. Along with sharing a favorite dish, each participant was encouraged to bring one to three kitchen or household items they no longer used. The purpose was to swap these items among ourselves or donate them to the Soroptimist International Group. Soroptimist International Group is a global volunteer organization focused on empowering women and girls through education and training, helping them achieve economic independence.

The event took place at Dawn Korinek’s home, where members arrived carrying their potluck dishes, drinks, and items for the swap. Upon arrival, we created name tags and arranged our donated items on several tables. The evening began with a delicious potluck dinner, featuring highlights such as a chicken pasta dish, vegetarian pad thai, meatballs, assorted salads, hummus, and delectable desserts.

After dinner, we drew numbers to determine the order for the swap, trade, and donate activity. With our numbers in hand, each person was called up to select a beautiful handmade tote bag crafted by Dawn, who is known in the community for her sewing talents. The bags featured coordinated fabrics for the straps and bottoms, making each one unique. Once equipped with our new bags, we went “shopping” for items from the tables, which displayed appliances, decorative household pieces, and pots and pans.

Participants eagerly chose their treasures—I was fortunate to pick up a nonstick stock pot!

This dinner provided a wonderful opportunity not only to enjoy a meal together but also to clean out unused kitchen and household items, all while supporting a worthwhile organization.

If you are interested in joining the Hidden Meadows Women’s Social Group, email us at HMWSG92026@gmail.com. The group offers a chance to meet new friends, try local restaurants for lunch, or attend potluck dinners that may feature cooking demonstrations, trade/donate events, or other engaging activities.

Ladies Bible Study Contact Debbie Hamer at 760-297-1278 or Sue Shepard at 760-213-0325 Tennis Club Contact Katy Freeze at 760-749-9722 or clarkfreese@gmail.com.

Pickleball Club Contact Holly Pobst at 858.349.4403 or thehollypobst@gmail.com Women’s Golf Club Contact Ellen at 760-749-1190 Women’s Social Group email to hmwsg92026@gmail.com.

SUBMIT CONTENT FOR HMN Deadline for local article submission: 20th of the month for the next issue. Photographs submitted for publication should be hi-resolution, unmodified originals, hi-res/300dpi. We cannot accept photos taken from social media sites such as Facebook.

Send drafts and photos to LocalEditor@HiddenMeadows.news

HIDDEN MEADOWS COMMUNITY FOUNDATION HiddenMeadowsFoundation.org HMCF2023@gmail.com Michelle Zipse, President Vickey Ciarlanti, Vice-President Shannon Antekeier, Secretary Paul Schoos, Treasurer Rob Enfield, Director Debbie Lai, Director Pat Tanabe, Director Melissa Tomaszek, Director Pete Tomaszek, Director Lynn Wheeler, Director Median Maintenance Paul Schoos, Chair Steve Fritzenkotter Communications Director Pat Tanabe - Hidden Meadows News Local Editor

Top L-R: Laure, Lou, Robin, Melisa, Vicky, Rochelle, Laurie Bottom L-R: Dawn, Dannielle, Helen

Donate via Zelle: HMCFDonate@yahoo.com Donate online: www.HiddenMeadows.news/donate

Hidden Meadows News • July/Aug 2026 www.HiddenMeadows.news — 11

May HMWSG Dinner and Cooking Demonstration at Sima’s

By Pat Tanabe/Resident Sima Kashani and her sister, Vida, hosted the May HMWSG dinner and began the evening with a cooking demonstration.

They showed guests how to make Persian spaghetti, or “Makaroni,” with tahdig—the crisp layer that forms at the bottom of the pot as a dish steams. Although tahdig is often made with rice, it can also be prepared with potatoes or pita bread. Sima said the recipe came from her maman (mother), and she calls it Maman’s spaghetti. During the cooking demonstration, several cooking tips were shared including: how saffron is procured, where she purchases saffron & how to make saffron water; using tomato paste from a jar and not a can (high acidity of the tomatoes can react with metal altering its flavor; and how to make tahdig using pita bread, oil & saffron water, cooking over a heat diffuser and wrapping a towel around the pot lid (to absorb condensation from dripping into food). Sima and Vida had prepared a pot of Persian spaghetti which was ready to serve. Serving a dish with tahdig is not for the faint of heart. It requires confidence and commitment as you place a platter atop the pot and flip the pot over onto the platter in one swift motion! In addition to the Persian spaghetti, they also demonstrated how to prepare spaghetti squash as a side dish. The squash was boiled and the flesh was shredded and seasoned with butter, garlic, and spices. The centerpiece of the dinner was the Persian spaghetti. It was accompanied by potluck dishes brought by the HMWSG and included a variety of green salads and fruit salads, veggie sides (red cabbage, cauliflower), corn & bean dip, quiche, and dessert. Gwen Dana baked a beautiful and delicious cherry chocolate cake.

The dinner also welcomed new guests, including Rimrock resident Allegra Martins and Gwen’s daughter, Jennifer. Sima arranged seating throughout her home in the kitchen, dining room, and living room, where guests enjoyed beautiful views of the neighborhood and distant mountains. If you would like to attend one of our monthly HMWSG dinners – with themes, cooking demonstrations or other activities, please email HMWSG92026@gmail.com.

Chefs Vida and Sima

Attendees

Persian Spaghetti with Tahdig

12 — Hidden Meadows News • July/Aug 2026 www.HiddenMeadows.news

Come see what everyone i

Thank You, North County San Diego!

Two Businesses. One Amazing Community. One Incredible Honor.

SIDE YARD PUBLIC HOUSE Gold Winner

SIDE YARD PUBLIC HOUSE Silver Winner

• Best Date Night Spot • Best French Fries • Best Specialty Cocktails

• Best Chicken Wings • Best Chicken Tenders • Best Outdoor Dining

THE MARKET AT HIDDEN MEADOWS Gold Winner

THE MARKET AT HIDDEN MEADOWS Silver Winner

• Best Breakfast Burritos • Best Bagels

• Best Breakfast • Best Dog Friendly

THE MARKET AT HIDDEN MEADOWS Bronze • Best Deli • Best Sandwiches • Best Salads We invite you to come with us and expe celebrate rience why North County vo ted us

BEST OF THE B

EST!

We are incredibly honored and humbled to announce that Side Yard Public House and The Market at Hidden Meadows have been recognized with Gold (First Place) honors in the Best of North County San Diego awards!

With Hundreds of Thousands of votes cast throughout North County, being nominated alongside so many outstanding local businesses was an honor in itself. To earn multiple Gold Awards is something we could never have achieved without the incredible support of our customers, friends, family, and community.

Although we’re two separate businesses, we’re truly one destination. Located side by side, many of our guests enjoy lunch, dinner, drinks, and live entertainment at Side Yard Public House, then wander next door to The Market at Hidden Meadows for handcrafted coffee, fresh deli favorites, gourmet treats, unique gifts, and so much more. Others begin at the Market and end their visit relaxing at the Side Yard. Together, we’ve created a place where our community can gather, connect, and enjoy the best Hidden Meadows has to offer.

Thank you for believing in us, supporting local businesses, and making this dream possible.

10326 Meadow Glen Way E., Escondido, CA 92026 • 760.297.1051 • sideyardph.com •

SideYardPublicHouse •

@SideyardPH