HMN - June 2026

NEWS

June 2025

Vol 9 No 5

Brandon Keiser, Brandon Lee, Logan Lee, Preston Welch, Kaileiya Rodriguez, Vanessa Cruz, Simona Orona

Seven Outstanding Local Students Receive Scholarships for Academic and Personal Excellence

By Michelle Zipse / Resident

community involvement, and inspiring personal achievements.

These young scholars represent a bright future, with interests ranging from medicine and music to robotics and environmental science.

ar and athlete, is set to pursue a degree in biochemistry with plans to eventually attend medical school.

Balancing academics with his role as a varsity rower, Preston’s commitment extends beyond the class-

Preston Welch, a dedicated schol-

SCHOLARSHIP / See Page 3

By Tom Fragala / Resident The Hidden Meadows Community Foundation held a combined Spring Fling and Sellers Faire Sunday April 13 at the golf course lower lot.

The kids could earn tickets for playing various games and activities and turn them in for prizes.

There were a lot of amazing sellers, offering everything from handmade crafts to natural soaps from goat milk.

One seller of note was 14 year old entrepreneur Ryder Burgner. His company is called RydeRealm. He owns four 3-D plastic printers and sells amazing creations including a several foot long dragon. And lots of cute trinkets. Ryder is home schooled and has built an impressive business!

His Instagram is @ryderealm.

The Event Director was Vickey Ciarlanti, with additional help from her husband Jeff.

HMCF also held a bake sale fundraiser. The bake sale volunteers were Pat, Olivia, Emma, Simona, Marco and Heather.

The kids activity station volunteers were Vickey, Wyatt, Brayden, Olivia and Emma.

Michelle Zipse, HMCF President, was helping out everywhere as usual.

Setup and teardown volunteers included Pete, Melissa, Vickey and others.

We also had a Peter Rabbit character (thank you Miles.)

Thank you to all our volunteers! You are appreciated!

Please consider a donation to the HMCF. Go to HiddenMeadows.News and click the donate button.

The Escondido Creek Conservancy Hosts Free Yoga and a Guided Hike Just Minutes Away From Hidden Meadows!

**************** ECRWSS EDDM ** POSTAL CUSTOMER ESCONDIDO, CA 92026

PRSRT STD ECRWSS U.S. POSTAGE PAID ESCONDIDO, CA PERMIT NO. 2900

HMCF Spring Fling and Sellers Faire

Hidden Meadows is beaming with pride this spring as seven exceptional students from our community have been awarded the Hidden Meadows scholarship in recognition of their academic excellence,

By Laurel Perun / Education and Outreach Coordinator The Escondido Creek Conservancy is thrilled to offer free yoga coupled with a beautiful guided hike twice monthly in 2025, just minutes away from the Hidden Meadows community. This new program, called Connect to Nature: Yoga +

Guided Hike takes place at Mountain Meadow Preserve in Escondido from 9AM to 11AM on the second Friday and third Saturday of each month in 2025. Sign-up is required on the Conservancy’s Eventbrite page.

The 693-acre Mountain Meadow Preserve was created by a partnership of the Conservancy, San Diego County Parks and Recreation, and

Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton.

The Conservancy manages the preserve to protect native plants and wildlife.

This new program was funded by the Conrad Prebys Foundation’s Healing Through Nature Initiative.

The Conservancy’s goal is to create opportunities for people across San CREEK / See Page 5

JUNE/JULY HIDDEN MEADOWS EVENTS Hidden Meadows Community Foundation Garage Sale Saturday, June 21st, 2025 Contact Jen Hill for Additional Information JennHill68@gmail.com Hidden Meadows Community Foundation Volunteer Appreciation Night Wednesday, June 25th, 2025 6pm - 9pm Side Yard Public House 10326 Meadow Glen Way East Theme – Saturday Night Fever Fourth of July Celebration Parade & Events Friday, July 4th,, 10am – Noon Parade Starts at 11am Lower Lot - Boulder Oaks Golf Course

2 — Hidden Meadows News • June 2025 www.HiddenMeadows.news

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Hidden Meadows News • June 2025 www.HiddenMeadows.news — 3

SCHOLARSHIP / From Page 1 room. He intends to minor in either physics or music while continuing rowing at a collegiate level. With an eye on reducing future debt, he plans to combine scholarships with part-time work. His disciplined approach to academics and life positions him for great success in the medical field.

Logan Lee, a graduate of the Cambridge School, has been accepted to the Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology to study electrical engineering. Logan’s accomplishments extend far beyond academics. As a former Boy Scout who achieved the rank of Life and earned approximately 120 merit badges, he was awarded the prestigious National Outdoor Gold Medal Award. He is also a recipient of the Congressional Gold Medal— the highest civilian youth award given by the U.S. Congress—an extraordinary recognition of his dedication and leadership.

Brandon Lee wants to attend Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology where he plans to major in Chemical Engineering. He is currently a senior at the Cambridge School, maintains an impressive 4.42 GPA and has been immersed in a rigorous classical education. His academic coursework includes Latin, Mandarin, ancient history, rhetoric, and advanced math and science. A member of the Speech & Debate Club, Track Team, and Student Tutor program, Brandon was honored with a Faculty Commendation for his outstanding character and positive influence on campus. He is also a member of the National Speech & Debate Honor Society.

Kaileiya “Kai” Rodriguez, a recent graduate of Escondido Charter High School, will attend Colorado Christian University this fall to study vocal performance with a minor in musical theatre. A passionate performer, Kai has graced local stages in roles such as Mary Poppins and Torrey in Freaky Friday.

She is also intrigued by urban environmen-

tal planning and business, which she hopes to explore further in her academic journey. A familiar face to many in Hidden Meadows, Kai has worked at the local market, building relationships with residents while making lattes and sandwiches.

Miles Keiser, a senior at Del Lago Academy, has demonstrated excellence in both academics and technology. With a GPA of 4.26, Miles has also earned a black belt in Taekwondo and completed an internship at the computational chemistry department at UCSD’s San Diego Supercomputer Center.

He serves as Vice President of his school’s robotics team and is the founder of a studentled computer programming club. Miles will be heading to UC Berkeley to study Electrical Engineering and Computer Science.

Simone Orona, a senior at Poway High School, moved to Hidden Meadows two years ago. Since then, she has proven herself to be a focused and hardworking student.

Simona will be studying Zoology at Oregon State University. A passionate equestrian since the age of six, her love for animals and science will serve her well in her pursuit of a career in Zoology.

Vanessa Cruz, will be attending Grand Canyon University majoring in Biology/PreMed. After college she is hoping to continue her education in Medical school and would like to someday become a Surgeon. She is thankful for meeting the Hidden Meadows community and wants to thank her parents for always supporting and believing in her.

These seven remarkable students exemplify the spirit of Hidden Meadows: driven, compassionate, and committed to making a difference. The entire community joins in congratulating them on their achievements and wishes them the best as they embark on the next chapter of their academic and personal journeys.

What happened to May? Readers of the Hidden Meadows News may have noticed the May paper was missing in action last month.

The answer is simple:

We just didn’t have enough content sent to us to justify printing the paper or advertising to cover the production, printing and postage costs.

If you’d like your community paper to continue, please consider submitting content to your local editor Pat Fox: LocalEditor@HiddenMeadows.news If you’d like to advertise or know someone that would benefit from reaching every household in Hidden Meadows, please contact Joshua at: Advertising@HiddenMeadows.news

Justin Salter Roadrunner Publications, Inc. HIDDEN MEADOWS NEWS

In Case We Missed You By: Hidden Meadows Community Foundation First, thanks to all of you who have so generously contributed during the first months of our fundraiser. Our annual campaign, which runs from March through May, has raised over $7,000 to date and is drawing to a close, but there is still time to make your donation if you haven’t done so already.

We have heard from some of our neighbors that they were unable to find the Foundation remittance envelope that had been inserted in the April Hidden Meadows News. We apologize to those who may have had that happen and want to remind you there are still other ways you can donate. You can go online at www.hiddenmeadows.news and click on the “donate” button to contribute using PayPal or a credit card, you can send a Zelle transfer to HMCFDonate@yahoo.com, or a direct PayPal payment to 2018hmcf@gmail.com. You can also drop by the Foundation booth at the Seller’s Faire or any one of our community events to make a check or cash donation. Finally, you can find an envelope and stamp and send your tax-deductible contribution to: HMCF, P.O. Box 462333, Escondido, CA 92046.

The Hidden Meadows Community Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to serving and enhancing our community via four primary areas of focus: · College Scholarships: Our annual scholarship program makes an investment in the future by giving scholarships of $1,000 to qualified college bound students currently living in Hidden Meadows. With this year’s awards we will be approaching $100,000 in Scholarships granted since the program’s inception.

Founded 2017

www.HiddenMeadows.News

· Community Programs and Events: Foundation sponsored family-oriented events and more, including the Spring Fling, Community Independence Day Parade, Halloween Trunk or Treat, Holiday Toys for Tots Toy Drive, Turkey Trot, Sellers Faire, and Welcome Committee visits. · Beautification: Completed major projects include the media re-landscaping and pine tree removal/trimming with on-going efforts now focused on median maintenance and repair. · Families in Crisis: The Foundation’s Neighbors Helping Neighbors program steps in to help if one of our neighbors has a serious emergency.

This year we have already presented the Spring Fling, our first Seller’s Faire and the Scholarship Awards Night. We hope you were able to attend one of these events. Coming up in July we will have the Independence Day Parade, in October Trunk or Treat, in November the Turkey Trot and December Toys for Tots. We hope to see you there.

Thank you, in advance, for helping to keep Hidden Meadows the unique, wonderful place it is to live.

The Hidden Meadows Community Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization. Your gift to the Foundation is tax deductible and will be used to support people and projects within our community. Visit our website https://hiddenmeadowsfoundation.org to learn more about the Foundation.

Publisher JUSTIN SALTER Published monthly by ROADRUNNER PUBLICATIONS, Inc. Street Address 29115 Valley Center Road, Suite L Valley Center, CA 92082 Postage Paid at Escondido, CA PERMIT 2900 Mailing Address Hidden Meadows News PO BOX 2300 Valley Center, CA 92082

(760) 297-2900 ©Roadrunner Publications, Inc. All rights reserved.

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 Patricia Fox LocalEditor@HiddenMeadows.news Advertising Joshua Sibelius Advertising@HiddenMeadows.news

4 — Hidden Meadows News • June 2025 www.HiddenMeadows.news

Most nominated artist at SD Music Awards is Western Days headliner Kimmi Bitter, the most nominated artist at this year’s San Diego Music Awards, will be the headliner at this year’s Western Days’s Saturday night entertainment. She will play from 8-10:30 p.m. on Saturday night of the festival.

The four nominations followed the release of her 2024 debut album “Old School” and included Artist of the Year, Album of the Year, Song of the Year (for “Cowboy Kind of Girl”) and Best Country or Americana Album.

After being nominated in four categories, she won in Song of the Year and Album of the Year.

Pat & Heidi Helly (of the local band band Heidi and the Hurricane), as Western Days entertainment coordinators are the people responsible for bringing Friday and Saturday night entertainment to Western Days. They talked about how lucky the festival is to get Bitter.

“She’s all over the news in San Diego,” said Heidi Helly. “We tried to get her for last year, but she wasn’t available. The song she won for in the April Music Awards was ‘Cowboy Kind of Girl,’ and the album was ‘Old School.’ ” She and her five-piece band plays a mixture of Retro-Country and Americana. “She’s been playing in San Diego forever,” said Heidi, adding, “She had a breakout song called ‘My Grass is Blue.’”

About Kimmi Bitter (from her website) Dubbed “the future of classic country” by Saving Country Music, Kimmi Bitter is painting a whole new tapestry that drapes golden-era Countrypolitan with coastal desert twang.

Imagine the sun-soaked charm of Palm Springs circa ‘62 mixed with a dash of surfy weirdness, all wrapped up in a mod-inspired dreamscape. Drawing comparisons from Patsy Cline to a Quentin Tarantino soundtrack, Kimmi Bitter is a paradox that echoes from the traditions of classic country, yet feels like it’s breaking all the rules

at once.

A rising force in the underground Americana scene she’s mixing the old school with the new cool by capturing the attention of music fans and critics alike. That boundary-pushing spirit came alive in her debut album Old School, which dropped in 2024 and came out swinging. It landed solidly on the Top 25 Americana Album Radio Chart and racked up a jaw-dropping eight nominations and three wins. But it didn’t stop there … her album dominated the Alt. Country Specialty Charts for four weeks in a row, and earned an Album of the Year nod from Saving Country Music alongside Sierra Ferrell, Red Clay Strays, and Billy Strings. Her single “Aquamarine” claimed the coveted Song of the Year title at the 2024 San Diego Music Awards, beating high-profile nominees like Jason Mraz and P.O.D. If that wasn’t enough, her breakout year keeps rolling with a field-leading four nominations for the 2025 San Diego Music Awards, including Artist of the Year, Album of the Year for “Old School,” and Song of the Year for “Cowboy Kind of Girl,” and Best Country or Americana Album. That’s not just a sign of success—that’s a signal that Kimmi’s about to kick into high gear.

Kimmi isn’t just winning awards; she’s earning her stripes on the road the old-fashioned way. After over 120 shows nationally in 2024, she and her band, The Westside Twang, are doing what they do best—pouring their souls across the U.S.A. Guitarist Willis Farnsworth’s signature twangy tone, which somehow makes a Gretsch guitar emulate pedal steel, has not only built him a cult following but has also defined the band’s live sound. With bassist Ben Neal and drummer Justin De La Vega in tow, the band delivers a live performance that hits right in the pocket.

If Americana music had a highlight reel for the past year, Kimmi would be in it. She was named one of Americanafest’s biggest musical takeaways,

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Start off the evening with the Sazon Tumbao Band, a spicy band from Mexico by way of Orange County and LA. “They were here last year,” said Heidi. “They are a fun blend of music, they sing in Spanish and English and they are a lot of fun. It was an attempt to reach out to a diverse audience—and it succeeded.”

Sazon Tumbao Band plays some songs made famous by Santana and some in the style of Celia Cruz from the 1960’s. “They were one of the first ones to play ‘Oye Como Va,’ made famous by Santana and previously recorded by her. They cover all the Latin and rock genres.

As the band describes itself: “We are proud to be the #1 Tumbao Pop Latin Versatile Salsa/Cumbia and Rock en Español Band in all of Southern California! With our dynamic and incredibly talented singers Pamela, Krystal, Laura and Albert, leading the way, we’re all about that electrifying Tumbao energy.

Our phenomenal band brings a dazzling mix of Latin music in both Spanish and English, ensuring every performance is an unforgettable fiesta!”

Their music spans Cuban rhythms to Top 40 English hits, showcasing the band’s expertise in Salsa Cumbia, Merengue, Bachata, Rock en Español, Classic Rock, Banda, Norteño, Mariachi, and the best of Top 40 (in both Spanish and English). Three of their talented musicians, including their lead female vocalist, are infused with authentic Cuban spirit, while their bassist, drummer, and timbales/conga players guarantee infectious Salsa beats that will keep your party alive!

and her album “Old School” also made it to Whiskey Riff’s Top Debut Albums list and was mentioned on Billboard’s 8 Must-Hear New-Country songs. With four major nominations already locked in for 2025, building a buzz for a sophomore album on the way, and a reputation for constantly pushing boundaries, it’s clear: Kimmi Bitter is just getting started.

Hidden Meadows News • June 2025 www.HiddenMeadows.news — 5

New VC resident magician will bring show to Just Put Your Jeans On! Western Days

By Elizabeth Cook / Resident

By DAVID ROSS A young professional magician who literally just moved to Valley Center (the day before I interviewed him for this article) will be doing a magic show at this year’s Western Days festival.

His name is Noah Bentz, he is 24, and his show (and website) is called The Wonders Show.

He will do an hour show on the Saturday of Western Days and then spend some time walking around the festival doing magical tricks. Bentz’s show Saturday afternoon will include his celebrated and fun steam “explosion.”

Originally a native of Bulverde, Texas, he just moved to Valley Center from Fallbrook to one of the more rural parts of Valley Center, near Lilac Road.

Although he is 24, Bentz has been a magician since he was 13, when the theater director of a show he was in —“The Music Man”— asked him to do a performance during intermission.

He was hooked! “My first show was at 13 and I’ve been performing ever since,” he said. “I just hit the ten year mark on my magic career.”

But he’s really launched his magic career in a big way in the last two years.

Currently magic is about half his living.

He is also a coach and works for Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) at Valley Center Community Church with Paul Behneman, this year’s Valley Center Person of the Year.

He visits Valley Center High School with Behneman, something he has done for three years. That is how he came to know Valley Center, before moving here.

He said, “I’ve been working in Valley Center for two days a week but just moved here. I love youth and helping kids and coaching kids and teaching them magic tricks when I get a chance.”

In his bio on his website (www.wondersshow.com) Bentz writes: “Over the last 10 years I have had the opportunity to travel America performing for groups, conventions, churches, schools, ranches and more! I never want to leave an audience without sharing passion, joy, connection and genuine entertainment. I perform for corporate events, parties, and more!”

Bentz is going to visit the legendary Magic Castle in Los Angeles in a couple of weeks and I asked him to write an article about his experience for The Roadrunner. “It’s for members only or guests of members,” he said. “All the members are magicians or enthusiasts.” The Castle has about twenty magic shows going every night and he plans to visit each of them.

Bentz now lives in Valley Center with his wife of three months, Allison, who also works for FCA. “On the side I like to run and I’m an ultra-marathoner, and the longest I’ve run is 100 miles.,” he added.

The article from Hidden Meadows News sat on my kitchen counter — just in case I wanted to call and find out what the volunteers of Mountain Meadow Preserve did there. The article sat there. Quietly. For weeks. Maybe months? Occasionally, I thought, “I should call.” But I didn’t.

Then early one Wednesday morning, the article stared back at me – with attitude – and said, “Just put your jeans on and go see what they’re doing.” And that’s exactly what I did.

Upon arrival at the Preserve, I was immediately put to work in what I soon dubbed “The Plant Factory.”

It’s a shade-cloth nursery situated on the slopes of south-eastern Hidden Meadows. You’ve driven past the road to “heaven” if you’ve ever driven up Mountain Meadow Road.

Right now, the Plant Factory is filled with nearly 800 hundred native plants collected by volunteers; potted and repotted by volunteers; and watered and weeded by volunteers. Another 200 plants are needed. In the fall, the plants will be put in the ground. Think about that. 1000 plants will need 1000 holes and watering to tide them over the dry season. Then the cycle of collecting, nurturing, and planting will begin again.

Two hundred of the 693 acres need restoration after being used as an avocado grove years ago. Hopefully, one day, all of it of Mountain Meadow Preserve will provide natural habitat for native animals, especially those classified as threatened or endangered.

My husband got into it, too. But being an engineer, he wanted to help with anything that required glue, primer, or a drill. He jumped right in to fix the electriCREEK / From Page 1 Diego, especially those from the Escondido area, to heal in nature.

Friday’s yoga session is led by the Conservancy’s very own Preserve Manager, Donna Leon. Saturday’s yoga session is led by a variety of Certified Yoga Instructors who each specialize in a unique healing practice – from yoga, to sound healing, to reiki, and more! Everything from yoga mats, straps, blankets, and bolsters is provided by the Conservancy. Participants are welcome to bring their own supplies from home too.

The 1-mile guided hike that follows the gentle yoga session is led

by Conservancy staff or dedicated volunteer naturalists. While on the guided hike, attendees learn about the Conservancy’s ongoing conservation projects, including a recently installed MOTUS wildlife track-

cal conduit to the nursery, expand the watering system, and he created a temporary shade structure for the plants along the perimeter of the nursery.

You can come, too! If you’re curious about what’s going on in this pocket of Hidden Meadows, just put your jeans on. Join the Wednesday Crew for an hour or two on any Wednesday morning and get a glimpse of this unique project to see if it’s a fit for your time and energy. This is a rare opportunity to make a difference right out your back door. You’ll also meet some of your nature loving neighbors.

Lead Plant Wrangler, Linda Collins, can be contacted for more information: linda_j_collins@sbcglobal.net Text or Call: 760-212-2601 The 693-acre Mountain Meadow Preserve, here in Hidden Meadows, is home to The Escondido Creek Conservancy. The office is the home base for all Conservancy staff, including those who are in the field a lot of the time taking care of nature and providing outdoor education programs for Escondido students.

This preserve was acquired in partnership with San Diego County Parks and Recreation and the Navy/ Camp Pendleton. It is part of a larger effort by the conservation partners to preserve natural open spaces in the Escondido Creek watershed and North County.

Escondido Creek begins in Bear Valley (east of Lake Wohlford), then travels 26 miles west emptying into the San Elijo Lagoon.

Caption: Pictured: The Wednesday Crew reorganizing the nursery at the Mountain Meadow Preserve to accommodate more plants

ing system, native plant nursery and habitat restoration volunteer opportunities, an Outdoor Classroom for community and student events, and more!

Register to attend this program by visiting the Escondido

Creek Conservancy’s Eventbrite page, or visit our website, www.escondidocreek.org to learn more about all our upcoming events!

6 — Hidden Meadows News • June 2025 www.HiddenMeadows.news

Judy Taylor’s Wild West Show is coming to Western Days

Judy Taylor, who can be described as a modern day version of Annie Oakley, will be bringing her Wild West Show to Western Days, Saturday, May 31, 4-6 p.m.

In addition to her show, she will also give a demonstration on how to do line-dancing, so that attendees to the evening’s music will be able to take full advantage of the entertainment!

Asked if she was comfortable being compared to Oakley, a legendary performer at Buffalo Bill’s famous Wild West Show of more than a century ago, she replied, “Absolutely, she and I have a lot in common.”

Taylor, who performed at the 2020 Rose Bowl Parade, has a variety show that consists of a musical concert with herself as a solo on guitar, harmonica, ukulele and banjo.

She performs this act in vintage cowgirl costume or sleek modern rodeo glitz with upbeat music to showcase the trick roping, gun spinning and bull whips.

Her fancy trick roping is done with a special cotton rope that is flexible and soft. It requires much skill to keep it spinning to do tricks and manipulation. The art comes in the form of jumping in and out of the loop and a variety of tricks with vertical and horizontal loops while keeping the rope spinning.

Gun spinning is a visual treat with a skilled handler who can spin one or two pistols around their fingers while doing a display of moves. “The guns I use are a replica designed and balanced specifically for entertainment and do not shoot bullets,” she said.

“Bull whips were a cowboy and cowgirl’s handy tool. A routine of cracks would allow a horse rider to manage a herd of cattle or horses. In a show these tricks are fun and fascinating to watch and hear!”

28246 Lilac Road, Valley Center

Hidden Meadows Community Garage Sale 2024 DON’T MISS OUT!!!

There will be dozens of homes participating in the yearly Hidden Meadows Community Garage Sale!

We will be distributing maps on the days of the event. You can get your map at the HomeSmart Office, or in a designated bin at the 4-Way Stop!

In Conjunction with the Hidden Meadows Community Foundation

What: Remove old treasures & pick up new ones!

When: Time:

Saturday, June 15th 8am - 2pm

Add your home to the Garage Sale Map: Just call or email Jennifer Hill at 760.484.4121 <or> JennHill68@gmail.com

Hidden Meadows News • June 2025 www.HiddenMeadows.news — 7

Cindy Payne, Pat Tanabe, Dannielle Milliken, Meredith Kifer, Lisa Barr, Nancy Wybel-Davis, Dana Rose.

Hidden Meadows Women’s Social Club Lunch Bunch: A Flavorful Lunch at Ten Gu Ramen

By Pat Tanabe / Resident The Hidden Meadows Women’s Social Club (HMWSG) recently enjoyed a delightful lunch outing to Ten Gu Ramen in Escondido.

Ten Gu Ramen opened in January in the Del Norte Plaza shopping center. This is the third Ten Gu Ramen restaurant in California. The other restaurant in North County is in Oceanside and its original namesake restaurant is in Bakersfield.

Ten Gu Ramen’s menu features a variety of authentic soups in a fastcasual setting. Their menu includes various ramens (tonkatsu, spicy miso, vegetable), udons (tempura, beef, curry chicken) and rice bowls (eel, curry, bbq pork, pork katsu, fried chicken). They have a number of non-ramen dishes including: edamame, seaweed salad, tempura, dumplings, sushi rolls (spam musubi, rock’n roll) and spring rolls.

Ten Gu Ramen also offers daily lunch specials.

You may be wondering what is

DISCOVER THE

ramen and how does it differ from udon? Ramen is a popular Japanese noodle soup that typically features a rich broth base, wheat noodles, and various toppings like meat, vegetables, and eggs. The broth is made with meat, fish or vegetables.

Udon soup broth is usually lighter and thinner. Ramen and udon noodles are both made with wheat. The noodles in ramen are thinner and yellow in color whereas the udon noodles are thick and white.

The HMWSG started the meal with a couple of rounds of vegetable spring rolls, which were perfectly crispy and served with a dipping sauce. We had to order extra dipping sauce, so we had enough for the generous serving of spring rolls (5 rolls). Two of us ordered curry chicken udon. It was a standout dish, featuring thick, chewy noodles immersed in a rich and aromatic curry broth with tender chicken pieces. Several women ordered rice bowls with beef or bbq LUNCH / See Page 9

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8 — Hidden Meadows News • June 2025 www.HiddenMeadows.news

TASTE OF THE TROPICS… Hidden Meadows Women’s Social Group

By E.M. Trivoli and Pat Tanabe / Residents For this month’s gathering, Michelle Zipse volunteered to host the group and decided on a tropical theme. Michelle (also the president of the Foundation) has lived here since 2018. The amazing,

tranquil backyard - with the pool, palapa bar, multi-tiered patios and all kinds of palm trees - was a big reason for buying this particular home.

In keeping with the theme, plenty of members “got the memo”! Pineapple was well-represented in de-

licious fried rice, on skewers with cheese, in Danie’s saucy meatballs, and in half-pineapples generously filled with a spicy, savory salad.

Other dishes included snack-portions of caprese salad, zucchini fritters, Karla’s chicken-cheese-enchilada casserole, lumpia, tropical

fruit and a charcuterie display. For dessert, we raved about Dannielle’s bread pudding! Complete with rum sauce!

The drinks were a hit, too. Karen Soriano showed up with pina coladas and margaritas… everyone enjoyed those. To top it all off, Laurie Wrona brought big colorful leis for everyone; not only decorating the people, but all around as well.

At these dinner-mixers, it’s all about chatting with friends, catching up, and welcoming new people.

Lately our group is growing in exciting ways. Nancy Blanco is new to the group, but not to Hidden Meadows. They’ve lived here awhile, but we all know how busy a young family can be. Now that the kids are more independent, Nancy looks forward to getting more involved socially, and we couldn’t be happier about that!

For most of the evening, it was warm enough to be outside and enjoy “the tropics”. After awhile, we congregated in the kitchen, around the expansive “island” (get it?). And isn’t the kitchen the heart of the home and parties, anyway?

Next up, we’re off to the home of Frances Munk, and likely an Italian theme to honor where she started.

With the Hidden Meadows Women’s Social Group, there is always something to do, and people to meet.

Find out more on Facebook (Hidden Meadows Social Group) and email HMWSG92026@gmail.com, so Dannielle can get you on the list.

HMGC: Member Tours

By Idalia Rewar Here it is, Friday, in my dreams, as a respite from a busy week, I was going to be by the pool in a bikini sipping a pina colada on a hot sweltering day in Hidden Meadows? Pop, there goes the dream no, no, not today, because, oh my gosh, it’s Hidden Meadows Garden Club scheduled event of visiting three member gardens in the Meadows.

And what a treat! We first had the pleasure of visiting the gardens of Pat Tanabe & Joe Zlotnicki’s home. An experience I will not forget – why, because of the trek up her driveway – long and real steep – Whoa, I was not expecting that!

But being in good health I did it, climbed up, huffing and puffing all the way and so did the 21 members who attended.

The house sits atop an area overlooking a spectacular view of the surrounding acreage and beyond.

The gardens are nestled in the boulder slope on rough terrain with rustic paths.

Succulents and cacti populate the lower driveway garden, then there is a citrus grove halfway up the driveway, and a more manicured garden surrounding the house. She also has a vegetable garden where herbs and over-wintered vegetable plants are thriving.

This garden is a relatively young garden with most areas less than 2 years old. The architecture of the

house is also unbelievable! I’m sure it must be breathtaking sitting on her covered patio overlooking the vast acreage with such a view.

Our next stop was the gardens at Karen & Brian Henderson’s home.

Since the walk was a bit tricky, our always dependable club member, Mike Quandrozzi, was available to lend a helping hand to assist us navigate tricky parts on the path. It was an adventure, wondering what was around the next bend. We were touring Karen’s lower garden, which is her native garden consisting of oak and Manzanita trees as well as wild hyacinth. Karen is working to remove the non-native plants in this area.

Last year, we toured her upper gardens which are populated with succulents, flowers, ornamental and fruit trees. Karen shared corms (similar to bulbs) from her crocosmias with the garden club members. At the beginning of the tour, the garden club stopped to look at something – there was a tree that had engulfed a meat grinder – positioned in the middle of the trunk.

That was weird! And there was Marlene laughing at a tree that had lichen on it – she said it “liken it”.

Very funny, Marlene.

It was then on to our last stop – the gardens at Kim and Rich Marin’s home. As you walk up the driveway both sides have huge cacti, succulent plants, and boulders. Mr. Marin was the tour guide.

Meat grinder - tree growing around it

As you go to the right, there is a huge tree that looks like a pregnant pineapple – it’s a Queensland Bottle Tree – one of a kind, 30 years old. Unbelievable! I wondered that if Rich & Kim decided to move and take the tree, it would be a bit of a problem.

Then on to view the hillsides and gardens around the house. They divided their gardens into specific areas: at the front mostly succulents,

then the patio, the Cecil garden, the native wild flowers, and the whimsical area.

There are guard rails to hold on to, and when you go down a slight slope and look beyond you will notice a Joshua tree – fake news, they do not sell them, so he had one made out of iron. It sure looked real to me. As you survey the land you will notice in the distance a HMGC / See Page 9

Hidden Meadows News • June 2025 www.HiddenMeadows.news — 9

BOOK REVIEW

By Lynn Clark This book touches on a part of WWII history that I was not familiar with, and I have read many books concerning WWII. I can honestly tell you I was a little stunned that I knew nothing about the POW camps that were constructed in the United States during the war. The subject matter this book covers will probably not appeal to everyone, but it is a part of our history.

“The Fifteen” by William Geroux - nonfiction When the United States entered WWII they realized they had nowhere to incarcerate prisoners of war. They hastily constructed over 500 camps all over the United States. Most of them were built in the South. The buildings housed around 400,000 German prisoners. Unlike many of the camps in foreign countries, the ones in the U.S. were relatively comfortable, and the food was

plentiful, but it wasn’t long before the troubles started.

Some of the prisoners were glad they were out of the war zone and in a somewhat comfortable environment. The trouble began when a prisoner became friendly with his captor. Nazi inmates that controlled the prisons felt this was treason, and punished the inmate with a severe beating.

Sometimes the beating resulted in death, and sometimes death resulted when an inmate was pushed to commit suicide. Witnesses to the incidents refused to talk so it was difficult to prosecute the perpetrators.

The Americans were in a difficult position knowing that they needed to keep control of the situation by prosecuting the killers, but they feared retaliation from the Germans holding American prisoners. By the end of the War there were 15 Nazi prisoners sit-

HMGC / From Page 8 huge colorful rooster, a bison, a ram and other whimsical metal sculptures. So much to see and mention.

After the tour there were plant cuttings contributed by members to take home.

Kim & Rich had a light buffet waiting. There was nothing light about it - a grand pasta salad, croissant sandwiches, super delicious egg rolls, a large bowl of strawberries/blueberries, and to top it off, some meltin-your-mouth cookies and brownies accompanied by sodas and water. That was a light lunch??

On this tour we encountered searing heat, treacherous paths, a steep driveway, a variety of garden settings and a sumptuous lunch buffet.

These Garden Club members are a hearty and adventuresome group.

If you are interested in joining the Garden Club, email Kim Marin at kimgroggmarin@gmail.com

LUNCH / From Page 7 pork toppings. One of the women ordered the shrimp tempura, which I had sampled in my tempura udon during a previous visit. If you order the tempura udon, I recommend you ask for the tempura to be served separately from the bowl of udon, otherwise, the crispy tempura will become soggy from being in the udon broth. One in our group ordered the vegetable ramen. The vegetable ramen is in a veggie broth topped with vegetables (bean sprouts, bok choy, corn, carrots, broccoli) and tofu. We did inquire whether there were any gluten-free noodle options but were told there were not.

As we savored our meals, the members of HMWSG engaged in lively discussions, sharing stories and laughter. The HMWSG lunch group explores local restaurants.

It’s a great way to learn more about our hometown, our neighborhood, and to get to know one another. If you are interested in joining the social group, email: HMWSG92026@gmail.com

ting on death row for murder.

What happened to them is the basis of this story. **************** I can always depend on JoJo Moyes to write a book that has touches of humor in the story that oftentimes lifts my spirit and reminds me that life is good. This one has characters that might even remind you of someone in your own family.

“We All Live Here”

by JoJo Moyes Lila Kennedy is living on the “edge”. She has written a successful book about how to keep a marriage “alive” and is working on a second followup ... sometimes. She is now divorced, and her ex husband has remarried and is expecting a child. So much for her advice in the last book.

Her agent is pushing to read the first 3 chapters of the followup that she hasn’t completed. She is trying to work on it because money is scarce, and she needs income from another successful book.

She’s living in a house with 2 teenage girls that might be on the verge of becoming adolescent nightmares. She has two “fathers” that are not on the best of terms with each other and both have moved in with her. Neither one is financially able to help much in the rent department, but she really can’t tell them to leave because they have nowhere else to go.

Don’t worry...it all works out in the end.

10 — Hidden Meadows News • June 2025 www.HiddenMeadows.news

GUNS AND HOSES: Law vs. Firefighters

The 7th annual Guns & Hoses chili cookoff will be held Friday, May 30, beginning at 5 p.m. on the VC Community Ballfields, near the beer garden of the Western Days festival, under the big tents.

Members of law enforcement, fire and community members are encouraged to bring their best chili recipe for a judged chili contest, with first place cash prize of $350.

This is the first time there has been a cash prize for the winner, Valley Center Fire Chief Joe Napier said. This prize will be awarded by a panel of judges who will do blind tasting, similar

to the way the Irish Stew Cook-off is judged.

There will also be a People’s Choice Award of $150. As implied, this will be judged by the people who taste the chilis and vote for their favorite recipe.

“This brings the best of both worlds to the event,” said Napier.

Napier said, “We are encouraging all law enforcement commanders, chiefs, lieutenants, captains to cook against the fire chiefs for the prize of a dinner for two at the Black & Blue restaurant at Valley View Casino.”

The new Sheriff’s Lt. Michael Tingley will be

representing the local substation in that challenge and Sheriff’s Sgt. Cook will be cooking to represent the substation in the regular contest.

Proceeds will go to the Valley Center Fire Protection District Explorer Post 1600. “The benefit of supporting our youth program is that some of our Explorers will go into the fire service and some of them will go into law enforcement,” said Chief Napier. “The training they receive provides an experience that will help make them great public safety employees.”

Support local growers at Western Days farmers market

By DAVID ROSS For the second year in a row Bellani Floral & Events will be putting on the Western Days Farmers Market. You’ll find them at the Western Days Festival located at the Community Ballfields.

This time the vendors include Delfino farms, selling honey, produce, strawberries and citrus trees; Yellow Brick Bakery, offering freshly baked breads & desserts; flower farmers with protea, pin cushions, wax flower and eucalyptus; a succulent farm

with succulents and plants; local artisans and Bellani floral with local wrapped floral bouquets from local farms who couldn’t make it.

“Our dream is to share the story of every farmer in this town and help support our local farms, said Jenelle Nino of Bellani Floral & Events Farmers Markets.

Nino is an advocate for supporting local growers. “If people show more support for local farmers they might get more farmers who are not yet on board.” On board for starting

SUBMIT CONTENT FOR HMN Deadline for local article submission: 17th 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

a regularly scheduled farmers market that operates weekly or monthly.

Nino’s enterprise derived last year from the Valley Center Farm to Florist Facebook Group she formed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Nino is very passionate about the survival of local flower farms and the growth of future farms. She started the Facebook group VC Farm to Florist “to create a forum for local farmers or aspiring farmers to collaborate and help each other.

We would meet for coffee or happy

Hidden Meadows Community Resources and Organizations Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)

Garden Club

Community Sponsor Group

Contact Kim Marin (kimgroggmarin@gmail.com) or Pat Tanabe (zlotanabe@gmail.com)

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

HIDDEN MEADOWS COMMUNITY FOUNDATION HiddenMeadowsFoundation.org HMCF2023@gmail.com Michelle Zipse, President

Organizations

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

drafts and photos to Patricia Fox to LocalEditor@HiddenMeadows.news

hour once a quarter,” she said, adding, “My dream is to have a place where our community can come meet our farms and our local artisans. To learn from them and— most importantly— support them. Our local farms are on survival mode and I would like to change that. If you received a local farm bouquet, eucalyptus shower bouquet, or succulent gardens in a handmade wooden boxes painted by local artisans, then this is the place to come meet them in person.”

Hidden Meadows Neighborhood Watch 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

Vickey Ciarlanti, Vice-President

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)

Shannon Antekeier, Secretary

Deer Springs Fire Safe Council

Contact Michele Zipse at HMCF2023@gmail.com.

Paul Schoos, Treasurer

Contact Steve Kerrin at 760-807-1141.

www.hiddenmeadowsfoundation.org

Homeowners Associations

Ladies Bible Study

The Meadows Homes Association (MHA) 760-749-7278

Contact Debbie Hamer at 760-297-1278 or Sue Shepard at 760-213-0325

Heather Davila, Director Rob Enfield, Director Debbie Lai, Director Pat Tanabe, Director Melissa Tomaszek, Director

Rimrock Homeowners Association 760-749-4008

Pete Tomaszek, Director

Hidden Meadows Ranch Homeowners Association 760-407-7575

Lynn Wheeler, Director

Silverado Management Services

Editor Patricia Fox Median Maintenance Paul Schoos, Chair Donate via Zelle: HMCFDonate@yahoo.com Donate online: www.HiddenMeadows.news/donate

Oak Meadows Glen Homeowners Association 760-749-4796

Tennis Club Contact Katy Freeze at 760-749-9722 or clarkfreese@gmail.com.

Women’s Golf Club Contact Ellen at 760-749-1190 Women’s Social Group email to hmwsg92026@gmail.com.

Hidden Meadows News • June 2025 www.HiddenMeadows.news — 11

Hidden Meadows Women’s Social Group: A Night of Fun and Funk at Disco Night Dinner

By Pat Tanabe / Resident In April, the Hidden Meadows Women’s Social Group (HMWSG) transformed the Hidden Meadows Pavilion into a vibrant disco haven for their much-anticipated Disco Night Dinner. Hosted by the dynamic duo Amanda DeRisi and Lynn Wheeler, this special event served as a heartfelt thank-you to the women who graciously opened their homes throughout the year to host the monthly dinners.

As attendees arrived, they were greeted by a dazzling array of disco decorations (inflatable disco balls, metallic streamers & tablecloths and disco themed plates & cups) that set the tone for a night of nostalgia and fun. The optional disco costume party encouraged members to don their best 70s-inspired outfits, with sequins, bell-bottoms, and boots making a colorful appearance.

There was a lot of big hair, make-up in bright colors and shimmering finishes and sparkling nail polish. We also had a disco protester - a flower child carrying a sign reading “Make Love Not Disco”. The atmosphere was electric, filled with laughter and excitement as everyone embraced the spirit of the disco era.

The evening kicked off with a potluck dinner - 70’s appetizers (pigs in a blanket, meatballs, chex mix), the main course was BBQ pulled chicken sliders, salads, and some retro desserts (Twinkies & Hostess cupcakes). The hostess was serving Tequila Sunrises (tequila, orange juice and grenadine) - the current version of this cocktail was created in the early 70’s in Sausalito, California. As members gathered around the tables, they enjoyed not only the delectable food but also the camaraderie that comes from sharing a meal with friends. The Pavilion buzzed with conversation, as stories and laughter flowed freely, creating a warm and inviting environment.

One of the highlights of the night was the disco photo booth, complete with fun props and backdrops that encouraged members to capture the spirit of the evening. From oversized sunglasses, metallic boa and microphones, the photo booth provided a perfect opportunity for attendees to let loose and create lasting memories.

As the dinner concluded, the real fun began with a dance party fueled by classic disco tunes. The Pavilion came alive with the sounds of the 70s, as members hit the dance floor to groove to hits from legends like Donna Summer, the Bee Gees (Saturday Night Fever), and Gloria Gaynor. The infectious energy of the music had everyone dancing, laughing, and reliving the carefree spirit of disco.

Amanda and Lynn’s thoughtful planning of the Disco Night Dinner was a perfect way to express gratitude to those who have contributed to the group’s success throughout the year. The Hidden Meadows Women’s Social Group’s Disco Night Dinner was a blast from the past. Looking forward to future dinners with our neighbors and friends where we can share laughter and make memories.

12 — Hidden Meadows News • June 2025 www.HiddenMeadows.news