Valerie Spearman, Nancy Ogrod
SPRING FOOD DRIVE for INTERFAITH
Nancy Ogrod / Resident
Please Mark your calendar
Saturday, March 15, 2025, from 9 am to 2 pm at the Golf Course Clubhouse, 10333 Meadow Glen Way East, Hidden Meadows
It has been over six months since the last food drive, but the need for non-perishable food has not decreased, unfortunately. Mr. Kim will again allow us to be in front of the Golf Clubhouse for the spring food drive. Please bring your non-perishable, unexpired, canned, bagged, or boxed food items or toiletries to the clubhouse between the hours of 9:00 am and 2:00 pm on Saturday, March 15th. Like the summer food drive, you can stay in your car; I will be happy to take your donation out of your back seat or trunk.
Your generosity in the past has helped many fami-
lies by filling Interfaith’s cupboards. Please, help again.
Some food items that are always needed are • Mac & Cheese (Box or Individual Serving) • Spaghetti Sauce & Pasta (Dried) • Pasta Meals, Spaghetti O’s (Canned Only) • Hearty Soups, Stew, Cup of Noodles • Canned Meat, Beans , Chili & Tuna • Canned Fruits or Vegetables (Corn or Green Beans) • Rice & Beans (Dried) • Peanut Butter & Jelly (or Jam) • Cereal in Family-sized Boxes • Microwavable Foods & Meals (Packaged to heat and serve.) • Pop-lid Canned Foods • Nuts, Raisins, Cheese ‘n Crackers, Granola Bars & Can Openers. Other items that are always needed are diapers, baby food, & toiletry items like shampoo, soap, deodorant, lotion.
If you would like to help, or if you are unable to deliver your donations to the drop site, please contact Nancy Ogrod by calling at 760-749-7023 or e-mail at n.ogrod@yahoo.com before March 14th
Hawthorne Country Store celebrates Chicktopia, March 8
Hawthorne Country Store hosts its annual spring Chick Day on Saturday, March 8, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Escondido, Fallbrook, and Santee. This annual celebration will host more than 100 varieties of baby poultry. It is a great way to learn about raising a home flock of backyard chickens. Hundreds of families typically attend each year.
“More and more families are finding that chickens are pets that come with great benefits, such as producing protein, creating fertilizer, and recycling waste,” says Heather Thelen, owner of Hawthorne Country Store. “We are excited to once again bring this popular event to our communities Escondido, Fallbrook and Santee]and share all our chicken knowledge.”
There will also be a Peep Show on Friday, March 7, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at all three locations. The $55 charge covers two adults, 21 and over. There will be hors d’oeuvres and beverages. This will give customers the first pick of rare, exotic, and the best egg-laying breeds.
There will be more variety of chicks than ever before. This pre-show event sells out every year and is only available by ticket. To purchase Peep Show tickets and access more information, email Heather@HawthorneCountryStore.com, call (760) 746-7816.
For more information on Chick Day, visit HawthorneCountryStore.com or check out their FaceBook Events Page.
HMWSG Galentine’s Dinner: A Night of Love, Laughter, and Delicious Food
By Pat Tanabe / Resident
Valentine’s Day is often celebrated with a romantic partner, but the Hidden Meadows Women’s Social Group, honored women’s friendship with their Galentine’s Dinner on February 13th. Galentine’s Day came into existence from a 2010 episode of the comedy show Parks and Recreation.
Co-hosted by the dynamic duo Maria Templeton and Diana Procter, the event was a wonderful celebration of women, food, and the spirit of camaraderie.
A Beautifully Decorated Setting
As guests entered Maria’s home, they were greeted by tables that radiated the galentine spirit. Maria and Diana spared no detail in creating an inviting atmo-
sphere, with Valentine-themed decorations adorning every corner. The table itself was a feast for the eyes, with Valentine garlands transformed into charming napkin rings around red napkins and a number of red flowering potted plants as centerpieces. Bouqets of red balloons decorated the room, adding a playful and festive vibe to the night. The finishing touches included heart-shaped or -decorated plates and snack cups.
A Fun and Interactive Cooking Demonstration
One of the evening's standout moments was the interactive cooking demonstration. Maria shared her culinary skills by teaching the guests how to prepare delicious Mexican rice. As she prepared the dish, everyone eagerly jotted down notes on heart-decorated recipe cards and pencils. The demonstration was both fun
County of San Diego Program
The County of San Diego’s Purchase of Agricultural Conservation Easement (PACE) Program supports local agriculture by preventing agricultural lands in the unincorporated county from being developed for other uses.
Agricultural property owners receive a one-time payment from the County for voluntarily placing an easement on their property. As a result, the agricultural land is preserved for continued agricultural use for future generations.
To learn more, visit us at www.sandiegocounty.gov/ pds/advance/PACE
and informative, encouraging guests to engage with the cooking process while learning new techniques.
A Delicious Feast
The party began with a pretty red Valentine’s Day cosmo punch that could be made non-alcoholic or with alcohol. There were appetizers of chips, salsa and guacamole.
The dinner itself was a culinary delight. The menu included heartshaped quesadillas, which added a whimsical twist to a classic favorite. DIY tacos filled with shredded chicken and a variety of tasty toppings allowed each guest to build their ideal taco, with zesty salsa, creamy guacamole and/or lettuce and cheese. The tacos were complemented by perfectly seasoned refried beans and mexican rice, adding a savory and comforting touch to the meal.
Guests also contributed salads and desserts. Highlights included rich, fudgy brownie bites, a beautifully prepared apple tarte tatin, and a tangy-sweet lemon curd blueberry cake that perfectly balanced the savory meal.
A Celebration of Friendship
Throughout the evening, laughter and conversation filled the air as women gathered to celebrate their bond of friendship. Thanks to the thoughtful planning and generous hospitality of Maria Templeton and Diana Procter, the Hidden Meadows Women’s Social Group’s Galentine’s Dinner was an unforgettable night filled with delicious food, heartfelt moments, and a whole lot of love. It was the perfect occasion to celebrate the amazing women in our neighborhood, who make our lives richer, funnier, and more fulfilling.
How the insurance crisis impacts our communities
By JIM DESMOND
It’s extremely concerning how the insurance crisis in California is impacting our communities. Many homeowners are finding themselves without coverage or facing skyrocketing premiums due to the policies implemented by the Insurance Commissioner’s office. Last week, I wrote a letter to Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara, urging him to take immediate action to fix the mess that has been made. This issue is leaving countless residents vulnerable, especially as wildfires become more frequent and severe.
For today’s column, I wanted to share
Clockwise L-R: Pat Tanabe, Pia Courser, Maria Templeton, Vicky Long, Diana Procter, Eveline Bustillos, Karla Fernandez, Lisa Saget, Dannielle Milliken, Robin Raben, Carrie Hartwick, Meredith Kifer, Pat Buntin, Debbie Lai and Karen Soriano.
SUPERVISOR JIM DESMOND
Hidden Meadows Women’s Social Group Lunches at The Golden Egg Omelet House
By Pat Tanabe / Resident
The Hidden Meadows Women’s Social Group recently gathered for lunch at The Golden Egg Omelet House, a beloved local gem owned by Hidden Meadows residents Karleen and John Lovett. This res-
taurant opened in1980 – so 2025 marks their 45th year in business!
The Golden Egg Omelet House is known for its warm hospitality and great service. We experienced this first-hand as Karla, our waitress was warm and welcoming.
Clearly the staff love to work at this restaurant, as noted in a 2016 San Diego Union Tribune article - John Lovett remarked that the children of past employees now work at the restaurant! Karleen, the owner, was unable to join us for lunch, but she made sure we were
welcomed by her staff and offered a complimentary mimosa. We all happily had a mimosa with our brunch/ lunch. Known for their warm hospitality and commitment to quality, the Lovetts have built a reputation for creating a cozy and welcoming dining experience that draws locals and visitors alike.
A Tasty Variety of Options
The Golden Egg Omelet House is famous for its extensive breakfast, brunch, and lunch offerings, but it’s their omelets that steal the show. With an impressive menu featuring 90 different omelet varieties, there’s truly something for every taste.
From classic combinations to more inventive options, guests can order from a variety of protein (bacon, ham, corned beef, beef chili, Italian sausage, Polish sausage, chicken, turkey & shrimp) and/ or vegetables/fruits (green chilies, mushroom, tomato, potato, broccoli, zucchini, avocado, spinach, green onion, bell peppers, olives, pineapple) in different combinations along with a choice of cheese and topping (salsa, marinara, mushroom). In addition to omelets, there are the usual breakfast fare of French toast, pancakes, waffles, and eggs. They offer Dudley’s date nut raisin bread from Santa Ysabel – one reviewer noted that this is the best bread in San Diego County! LUNCH See Page 7
Linda Collins, Susan Crandell, Lisa Saget, Pat Tanabe & Karla Fernandez
On the reverse side of the breakfast menu are the lunch items. All the sandwiches include a choice of soup, salad or fries. There is a listing of “Natural Sandwiches” which all include avocado, sprouts & tomato alone and in combination with a protein. In addition to the standard sandwiches (beef, corned beef, grilled cheese, tuna salad, egg salad BLT), there are “Very Special Sandwiches which includes a variety of melts (mushroom, tuna and chicken), other hot sandwiches (Reuben, French dip and hot beef) as well as cold sandwich combinations. There are also hamburgers and a patty melt, and salads complete the lunch menu.
But that’s not all. The Lovetts have also curated a separate menu that features potato casseroles— like Minnesota’s beloved “hotdish.” What is a hotdish? It's a complete meal that typically contains meat, vegetables, starch, and creamy sauce or cream soup. The potato casseroles are named after various states, oddly, there is no potato casserole named Minnesota. There are twelve different potato casseroles –
one is a New York Style (including Italian sausage, marinara sauce, olives, etc.) and another is a California Style (including broccoli, ham, tomatoes, hollandaise sauce).
A Cozy, Eclectic Atmosphere
The restaurant’s decor is a charming blend of country-inspired touches and eclectic finds. The warm, rustic atmosphere makes for a perfect setting for a relaxed breakfast or lunch with friends. From vintage signs to other country pieces, every corner of The Golden Egg feels homey. And if you happen to fancy one of the decor pieces, you're in luck—most of the decorations are available for purchase, allowing guests to take a piece of the restaurant’s unique charm home with them.
The Hidden Meadows Women’s Social Group enjoyed their lunch with mimosas as well as the conversation with the ladies. The group appreciated the opportunity to support our neighbors’ local business while enjoying a special moment together.
‘Girls just wanna have brunch!’
By: E.M. Trivoli / Resident
February can be fickle. Some days (like last week!) it’s cold and constantly raining. Other days are 100% gorgeous; warm and sunny. Yesterday was just like that when we (the Hidden Meadows Women’s Social Group) met up at TERI: Campus of Life, in San Marcos.
It was a nice little daytime group: Lisa, Laurie, Linda, Vickie, Dawn, Danielle, Michelle and EV. We also welcomed a new person! Maria, originally from Rochester, New York, just moved to our community. Many of us can relate to the sometimes challenging feeling of making a move, meeting new people and trying to feel at home; that’s where joining a group like ours really shines.
TERI (an acronym for Training, Education, and Resource Institute) is on a 20-acre spread along Deer Springs Road among the rolling hills of the Twin Oaks Valley. Over the past few decades it’s grown a lot, yet remained focused on its original goal: to improve the quality of life for children and adults with developmental and learning disabilities, and to change the way the world sees them, allowing for inclusion within the community.
One way TERI does this is by running an inviting food and beverage place called Common Grounds Café & Coffee Bar. Seated on their spacious, east-facing patio, I’m pretty sure I could see Mountain Meadow
Road winding up the hill to our slice of paradise.
The daytime menu has a nice variety of salads, sandwiches and breakfast items; plus sweet treats and a full coffee & smoothie bar. Overwhelmingly, we were super impressed by how good the food was. Around our table there was a breakfast burrito, cinnamon roll, egg-cheese bagel, avocado toast, turkey club and Cubano sandwiches, a parfait, and very fresh salads. All big hits!
A few of us had been to TERI before, in early evening. And once our version of winter is finished, the early evening menu and live entertainment on the patio will be back. (Sidenote: one of our members, Robin, has a musical group that often performs at TERI. I learned yesterday that Laurie is her sister. Who knew? Everyone but me.)
Monthly lunches (or brunches!) are just one of the many social events enjoyed by members of the Hidden Meadows Women’s Social Group. We also get together for Evening Socials at different homes, Mexican Train and Poker Nights, Mah Jong and more. As I was saying to Maria, when you’re in our group there’s always something to do, someone to chat with and great food and drinks to be had.
Find out more about TERI Campus of life: www.camputoflife.org
Find out more about our Hidden Meadows Women’s Social Group: hmwsg92026@gmail.com
Valley Center Art Gallery: celebrating a legacy of artistic excellence
By FABIOLA GUZMAN
Nestled in the heart of Valley Center, the Valley Center Art Gallery stands as a testament to the vibrant artistic spirit that has thrived in this community. Established in 2019, the gallery has quickly become a beloved institution, showcasing the diverse talents of local artists and fostering a deep appreciation for the arts.
The inception of the Valley Center Art Gallery was driven by a group of passionate art enthusiasts, including founding members Barbara Scharnau and Gloria Warren. They recognized the need for a dedicated space to celebrate and promote the creative endeavors of the community.
Despite not having a building to call “home” throughout all these years, the gallery has persevered and currently shares space with the Valley Center Public Library. This collaboration has enabled the gallery to host countless exhibitions, workshops, and events, providing a platform for both emerging and established artists to share their work with the public. Throughout its history, the Valley Center Art
Gallery has been a cultural hub, attracting visitors from near and far. The gallery’s commitment to excellence is evident in its carefully curated exhibitions, which span a wide range of artistic mediums, from painting and sculpture to photography and mixed media. Each exhibition tells a unique story, reflecting the rich tapestry of creativity that defines Valley Center.
As the Valley Center Art Gallery looks to the future, it continues to evolve and adapt to the changing landscape of the art world. We are excited to announce that new board members will soon be unveiled, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to guide the gallery’s continued growth and success. Their dedication and vision will ensure that the Valley Center Art Gallery remains a cornerstone of our community, inspiring and enriching the lives of all who visit.
Stay tuned for more updates and join us in celebrating the enduring legacy and promising future of the Valley Center Art Gallery.
Hidden Meadows Women’s Social Group at the Common Grounds Café & Coffee Bar
Common Grounds Café & Coffee Bar
Barbara Scharnau, founder of Valley Center Art Gallery.
Gloria Warren, co-founder of Valley Center Art Gallery.
Established 21 years in Hidden Meadows
Great Referrals!
the letter I sent and let you know that I’m going to keep fighting for insurance solutions.
Dear Commissioner Lara,
I’m writing to express my deep concern about the current state of fire insurance coverage in California. Many residents in my district and across the state are being left vulnerable and uninsured due to the policies under your jurisdiction.
The regulatory decisions you’ve overseen have driven major insurance providers out of the market or forced them to drastically reduce coverage in high-risk areas. This has left thousands of Californians with no choice but to rely on the FAIR Plan, which offers limited coverage at extremely high rates. For example, when State Farm dropped approximately 1,600 policies in Pacific Palisades before the recent devastating fires, many homeowners were left unprotected. Now, I’m reading that the California Fair Plan is on the brink of insolvency, due to fires in Los Angeles.
The temporary moratoriums you issued on policy cancellations after disasters are simply a short-term fix. Homeowners need long-term, sustainable solutions, not just yearly delays that fail to encourage insurers to return to the market or expand their offerings.
I urge you to take a stronger, more effective approach to fix this crisis:
• Foster Participation: Allow
insurance companies to price risk accurately without excessive restrictions that discourage market participation. Revisiting Proposition 103’s ratesetting policies could help attract competition and innovation.
• Encourage Market Entry: Provide incentives for new insurers to enter the market, such as tax breaks, streamlined approval processes, and subsidies for covering high-risk properties.
• Promote Innovation: Support the use of advanced technology and data analytics for risk assessment. This could lead to fairer pricing models that reward homeowners for fire prevention efforts rather than punishing them for their location.
• Increase Transparency : Ensure regulatory changes are made with full public disclosure and input. Premium increases should be clearly justified and publicly reviewed.
• Support Consumers: Launch educational initiatives to help homeowners understand their insurance options, negotiate coverage, and implement safety measures that can lower their insurance costs.
Commissioner Lara, the
current insurance crisis isn’t just a policy failure—it’s a failure of public trust. Californians deserve better than facing the threat of losing everything with inadequate coverage. I urge you to take immediate action to protect our communities by pursuing a more balanced and market-friendly approach that serves all residents, not just the insurance industry.
I look forward to your response and to seeing meaningful reforms that prioritize the well-being of Californians.
Jim Desmond is a member of the San Diego County Board of Supervisors. He represents the 5th District, which includes Escondido, Valley Center, Pauma Valley, Palomar Mountain and much of the Backcountry.
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 drafts and photos to Patricia Fox 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
Heather Davila, Director
Rob Enfield, Director
Kathy Moore, Director
Pat Tanabe, Director
Melissa Tomaszek, Director
Pete Tomaszek, Director
Jack Weber, Director
Lynn Wheeler, Director
Editor Patricia Fox
Median Maintenance
Paul Schoos, Chair
Donate via Zelle: HMCFDonate@yahoo.com
Donate online: www.HiddenMeadows.news/donate
HELPFUL PHONE NUMBERS
211: Emergency and non-emergency
Animal Services: 619-299-7012
CAL FIRE/Fire Information hotline: 619-590-3160
California Highway Patrol: 858-637-3800
Deer Springs Fire Protection District
Station 1 Headquarters: 760-749-8001
Station 2 Deer Springs: 760-741-5512
Station 3 Hidden Meadows: 760-751-0820 Burn Permits: 760-749-8001
Road Conditions/ Closures:
Cal Trans 800-427-7623 or www.traffic.com
Hidden Meadows Community Resources and Organizations
Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)
Contact Marc Weissman at 760-525-5170 or marcweissman11@gmail.com.
Community Sponsor Group
Contact Chairman Jim Chagala, at 760 751-2691 for more information.
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
Deer Springs Fire Safe Council
Contact Steve Kerrin at 760-807-1141.
Homeowners 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 760-749-4796
Organizations
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
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
Women’s Golf Club
Contact Ellen at 760-749-1190
Women’s Social Group email to hmwsg92026@gmail.com
This year, the Seller’s Faire is making an exciting transition into a Farmer’s Market, bringing you even more delicious and locally sourced goodies. In addition to the 60+ vendors featuring homemade crafts, jewelry, artisanal wood products, hand-sewn aprons, blankets, and more, we are welcoming food vendors offering pre-packaged food, fresh produce, jams, honey, spices, and even decadent chocolates. It’s the perfect place to stock up on fresh and flavorful local treats while supporting small businesses.
And that’s not all—each Seller’s Faire event in 2025 will also feature a Hidden Meadows Bake Sale. Our talented local bakers will be whipping up creative and delicious seasonal treats that perfectly complement the theme of each event. Be sure to stop by and pick up something sweet!
Lilac West showing off their inspired designs
Katie Freese learning more about the Assistance League from Sherry Horton. Please brings your clothes and small household items to donate to this worth cause. Donations are accepted at the Faire
Vendor who makes custom dresses for the little princess in your life
Local Sellers Faire volunteers welcoming neighbors into the Faire: Diane Heath, Vicky Long, Michelle Zipse, Sima Kashani
Cooks needed for Irish Stew Cook-off
The Valley Center Business Association is once again sponsoring the Valley Center Irish Stew Cook-off on Thursday, March 13 at St. Stephen Catholic Church hall, 31020 Cole Grade Rd.
Here’s your chance to cook up the winning stew for the 29th annual event.
This event is open to the public. Folks from the community come to the Irish Stew Cook-off in their finest shades of 40 greens and for a small ticket price can try all the Irish Stews they can eat, meet the judges and enjoy the evening with friends and neighbors and purchase a pint and be Irish for the evening.
It’s also the day when candidates for Honorary Mayor introduce themselves to the public.
Sign up today: www.VCIrishStew.com
Entry Category:
• Business
• Individual
• Service Club/Group
• Youth
Showcase your business, group, etc., while having a great time with neighbors.
If you have any questions, please contact Kathleen at 760-497-7007 or email info@VCIrishStew.com
From Page 11
Spring Fling Fun on April 13
To kick off the season, our April event will feature Spring Fling festivities for the whole family! Bring the kids and meet Peter Rabbit, who will be on-site from 11 AM to 1 PM, handing out special eggs stuffed with springtime surprises. Children and their parents can participate in a fun Easter Egg Hunt while visiting our vendors, collecting eggs along the way. Plus, there will be games and activities around Peter Rabbit to add to the festive atmosphere.
A Must-Visit Market for All
In addition to the fresh produce and handmade goods, don’t forget to bring your dull blades—the knife sharpener from Bladeworks will be on-site to get all your knives, garden tools, and other bladed items back to their best condition. Whether you’re in need of fresh food, unique artisan products, or expert sharpening services, there’s something for everyone at the Seller’s Faire/Farmer’s Market.
Mark your calendars for all the 2025 Seller’s Faire dates: April 13, June 8, September 14, October 12, and November 16. Each event will feature something new and exciting, so be sure to stop by and experience it all.
So don’t miss out—Hippity hop your way down to the Hidden Meadows Seller’s Faire/Farmer’s Market on April 13! Enjoy a day of shopping, delicious food, family-friendly fun, and the best our community has to offer! Please check us out on the Hidden Meadows Foundation website at: www.hiddenmeadowsfoundation.org
SELLERS