The Hidden Vine

DISCOVER THE HIDDEN GEMS OF TEMECULA’S WINE COUNTRY

New Year

Editor's Letter

Welcome to 2025!

A year filled with hope, promise, and the opportunity for massive growth.

In truth, the same hope and opportunities were available in 2024, but for whatever reason, 2025 seems to have a ring to it that 2024 just doesn’t.

Perhaps it’s the roundness of the five or the clean feeling of a perfectly halved decade. Whatever it is, I’m here for it and the whole Hidden Vine team is getting buzzed off the half-decade energy!

Want some of that energy for yourself? Begin flipping these pages and you’ll feel it.

New faces, new energy, and a buzz that seems to give you that New Year, New Opportunity feeling.

I am willing to bet that if you ride the wave of that energy, you will find that your next few months just hit different. Doors open easily that you thought would take tremendous effort. Folks you didn’t know you needed in your life suddenly appear out of nowhere. Answers to questions randomly reveal themselves to you and you can’t explain why.

But it isn’t actually random. This is simply what happens when we’re all buzzing from the same energy.

So go ahead and begin reading, catch the wave, and let’s ride this thing together.

With love always,

~Porsché Mysticque

Who we are

BRIAN LEMAR Founder & Publishing Director

ADRIENNE MARIE

Executive Administrator

PORSCHÉ MYSTICQUE

STEELE Editor-in-Chief

JENNY ZULBAATAR Head of Business Development

EDUNJOBI OLUWASEUN

Graphic Designer

MICHAEL ANGELO CHAVEZ

Photography/Videography

NATALIE PIGA

Photography / Events

FRESH SCOOP STUDIO

Where Ideas Turn Into Binge-Worthy Content

• Pro Video Podcast & Content Studio Cameras, lights, mics—everything’s set. Just show up, and we’ll handle the tech.

• Made for Everyone Business owners, creators, or just friends with great stories—this space makes you look and sound your best.

• We’ve Got Your Back

New to this? No worries. Stop by, see the space, and let’s chat over coffee.

• More Than a Studio

Schedule your tour or strategy session today at https://freshscoopmedia.com/

| THE HIDDEN VINE

Temecula Winnelson

Quality Plumbing Wholesale Solutions for Businesses That Demand Excellence

• Comprehensive Inventory: Access a wide range of plumbing parts and supplies tailored for plumbers, plumbing companies, wineries, hotels, and water filtration systems.

• Up-to-Code Assurance: Ensure your plumbing components meet the latest industry standards and regulations.

• Expert Guidance: Rely on our knowledgeable team for personalized support and recommendations to fit your specific needs.

• Reliable Supply Chain: Count on timely deliveries to keep your operations running smoothly without interruptions.

Don’t settle for less when it comes to your plumbing needs.

Partner with Temecula Winnelson for reliable, high-quality solutions that keep your business flowing.

Phone: (951) 894-4098

Address: 41740 Reagan Way, Murrieta, CA 92562

Spotlight BRENDEN KALFUS

Embracing Temecula, One Step at a Time

Under the soft glow of orange and blue lighting at Fresh Scoop Studio in Temecula, Brenden Kalfus, the city’s newly elected mayor, sat in a comfy chair, seemingly ready for his interview.

The studio’s calm atmosphere, punctuated by perfectly positioned microphones and the gentle hum of conversation, set the stage for an unguarded dialogue. Brenden, dressed in a crisp button-up and tie, maintained a straight, disciplined posture that relaxed ever so slightly as he settled in. His baby blue eyes sparkled with an intense, genuine smile, a reflection of a man deeply connected to his roots in Temecula. He let out a soft sigh before he began.

“I’m Brenden Kalfus, your newest Temecula mayor, born and raised in Temecula,” he introduced himself confidently, his voice steady yet warm. “I’ve been here since 1991. I went to Hillcrest Academy Elementary School, which is no longer a school here in Temecula, then to Vail Ranch Middle School and Temecula Valley High School. I’m homegrown Temecula, and now I’m lucky enough to raise my five kids here with my wife. I’m excited to be your mayor, excited to get to know everyone in the city and tell you a little about myself.”

paused with a polished smile. But if you looked closely enough, you could see that beyond the polished exterior, every word was saturated with genuine pride.

As the conversation unfolded in a spontaneous, unscripted manner (where neither question nor answer was preplanned) Brenden’s natural charisma emerged. His fingers moved with a subtle rhythm as he enunciated each word, and his eyebrows rose when emphasizing points of importance. Even as he adopted the measured tone expected of a public official, there was an unmistakable spark of the familiar, approachable man from Temecula shining through.

When asked why he ran for mayor, Brenden’s expression grew reflective, and his voice took on a thoughtful cadence. “I ask myself that all the time,” he admitted. “I’ve never been someone who’s super political. I’ve always been very opinionated. I’m a full-time firefighter, and with five kids, life is already incredibly busy. But during COVID, my eyes really opened up to local control and how much our elected officials affect our everyday lives. I started looking into who was on our school board, who was on our city council, and I felt that those people didn’t really reflect the current age demographic of Temecula. I wanted someone approachable and relatable in that seat. So I put my hat in the ring.”

The humility in his voice was balanced by an unwavering determination. “When I found out I won, I felt amazing,” Brenden recalled. “I beat an individual who had been in office for over 17 years. I gave it 100% effort—if I did lose, at least I’d know I did it my way, using my failures as

Brenden

Spotlight BRENDEN KALFUS

propellers upward. But in the end, coming out on top was a great feeling.”

In truth, being elected to Mayor at just 33 is a remarkable feat; but it made us wonder, how was he as a child?

Brenden chuckled lightly at the question before responding, “I’d say I was the class clown. I was always good in school—always had a strong GPA, on the Dean’s List, all that stuff—but I was definitely the funny kid. I always made people laugh.” Though he confessed that he still retained that humor, he added with a slight furrow in his brow and a flat tone, “In this position, I have to reel myself in.”

Yet, when asked when he gets to just be himself, Brenden admitted that the constant recognition challenges that freedom.

“Everywhere I go, someone recognizes me,” he said. “Even at the supermarket or when I fill up my gas tank. It’s hard to just be myself. But I still go out with my wife, on dates, and with friends. This position has been a huge learning curve. I’ve grown so much in just a little over two years—listening to people I normally wouldn’t have a chance to sit with and really opening myself up to new perspectives. It’s helped me grow as a man, a husband,

and a father.”

One of the most profound shifts he described was the development of empathy. “The biggest shift has been empathy,” he explained. “As a firefighter, we help people in immediate crises, we don’t always see the long-term outcome. Now, as mayor, I can see the impact of our decisions over time. Fixing a pothole, trimming overgrown trees, issuing a proclamation that brings a smile to someone’s face, you see the long-term effects. It’s all about helping people on a bigger scale.”

It was clear that Brenden has experienced a series of life changes after taking on the position of Mayor and it begged the question: What is your biggest challenge now?

His tone grew earnest. “Creating time for my family is the biggest challenge,” he confessed. “I’m a full-time firefighter, my wife is a full-time teacher, and with five kids in sports, the chaos is real. I make it a priority to block off time for date nights and one-on-one time with each child. Family comes first. Without them, everything else is meaningless.”

There was a slight twinkle in his eye as Brenden spoke about his family. Putting them first while also caring

BRENDEN KALFUS

Spotlight

for an entire city is undoubtedly challenging, but he managed to find the middle ground and his smile said as much.

The conversation then turned to the future. “Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?” we asked. Brenden paused thoughtfully before replying, “That’s a hard question,” he admitted with a side smile, indicating that he needed a moment to answer. His eyes shifted to the side as if looking into the future for the answer.

He looked back to the front and flicked his fingers upward as he explained. “I set goals and write them down, but when you start fixing one problem, you see more problems, each bigger than the last—county, state, federal. Right now, I’m focusing on fixing what needs to be fixed in Temecula. I’m focusing on my role as mayor, my career as a firefighter, and being a father and a husband. I take it one day at a time.” He let out a small breath at the end of the statement as if to settle the answer within his own heart.

“I love Temecula,” he said, his voice deep and sincere. “I was born and raised here. Even though I left for a few years, this is home—not just for me, but for my five kids. Every decision I make is with the future generation in mind. I want Temecula to be the best place for you, now and for years to come.”

“I want people to know I’m extremely approachable,” he continued. “I’m a firefighter with a full-time job and a family; not a career politician.”

In that softly lit studio, amidst the gentle interplay of orange and blue hues, Brenden Kalfus revealed not just his political persona but the man at his core: a dedicated public servant, a loving family man, and a true son of Temecula. His story, punctuated by moments of genuine humor, quiet resolve, and an ever-present empathy, resonated deeply—a promise that the future of Temecula is in caring, capable hands.

You can reach out to Brenden on Instagram and Facebook (search: Brenden Kalfus). For issues or information relating to the city of Temecula, you can email him at brenden.kalfus@temecula.ca.gov.

LOVE LETTER TO Temecula

Dear Temecula,

Let me start by saying—I love you. My name is James Stewart, but everyone calls me Stew. I’ve had the honor of serving as your mayor twice, and I was the last city councilman elected by your entire community. I moved here from a suburb of Chicago, straight to your open arms, with my wife and three small kids in tow. Some might think that was a huge lifestyle change, but for me, it felt like coming home. You were a young city then, barely 18 months old, but even in those early days, I could see the potential, the heart, and the resilience that make you special.

You sure didn’t make our first few years boring. A massive wildfire nearly reached our new home that first year. The next year, you endured the worst flooding you’ve ever seen, wiping out parts of Old Town and claiming lives. And then the year after that, the Northridge earthquake hit. I halfexpected a hurricane or a plague to roll in next. But through it all, you stood strong, and we knew we had made the right choice putting down roots here.

In 1991, just a week after Murrieta became a city, I opened my second Stew’s Barbershop there, eventually growing to seven locations throughout the valley and Orange County. But what really makes this place special isn’t just the opportunities—it’s the people. The diversity of this valley is what makes it thrive. Immigrants have been drawn here since the 1850s, stopping along the Southern Immigrant Trail and deciding to put down roots. That same spirit of opportunity and community is alive and well today.

For me, it was love at first sight. I got involved right away, meeting people, learning the history, and rolling up my sleeves wherever I could. As a Rotarian since 2004, I’ve lived by the motto “Service Above Self.” Once my kids were grown, I stepped into city politics—not because I had to, but because I wanted to protect the city that had given so much to my family.

Cruising through Old Town every Friday night is my guilty pleasure. I see tourists waving as I pass by in my ‘29 Model A or my Mayberry-style police cruiser, and it makes me smile. The history of this valley is something I love to celebrate, which is why I created the Temecula Valley Fun Facts page to share the stories that make this place so unique.

To say I love my city is an understatement. Every single day, I do my best to prove it.

Yours truly,

- JAMES “STEW” STEWART

Hidden Gem

ZEN CURRY & GRILL

Among the bustling businesses near Temecula’s Promenade Mall, Zen Curry and Grill shines as a culinary diamond, offering a heartfelt journey through authentic Indian flavors, guided by the passion of owner Hari Sharma.

Hari’s path to Zen Curry and Grill began over 20 years ago during his university days, where he first stepped into the restaurant industry. After years in hospitality, including time in Dubai’s luxury hotels, Hari found his way to Southern California. It was Temecula’s family-oriented community and thriving winery scene that caught his attention. Recognizing the absence of fine Indian

dining in the area, he knew this was where his dream would take root.

Since opening in February 2024, Zen Curry and Grill has quickly become a beloved staple in the Temecula Valley. In just one year, the restaurant garnered accolades like “Best Indian Restaurant in Southern California” and “Restaurant of the Year” in the Indian category. But awards aren’t what sets Zen apart—it’s the love for authentic, home-style cooking and the warm, welcoming atmosphere.

At Zen Curry and Grill, each dish is crafted fresh to order, emphasizing organic ingredients and steering clear of

preservatives and artificial colors. The menu is thoughtfully designed to accommodate every palate— from those who crave bold, spicy flavors to diners who prefer a milder experience. With spice levels ranging from mild to extra spicy, there’s something for everyone at Zen.

Signature dishes like the butter chicken and chicken tikka masala are crowd favorites, but Hari’s personal recommendations shine just as brightly. The mixed grill, rack of lamb, and the crispy roasted cauliflower are standouts, offering a flavorful twist on traditional favorites. And for those seeking something truly special, the lamb kebabs are a must-try.

Zen Curry and Grill isn’t just about food—it’s about community. Hari’s dedication to providing an exceptional dining experience is evident in every detail, from the freshly prepared dishes to the personalized service that makes every guest feel at home.

Whether you’re a long-time local or just passing through, Zen Curry and Grill is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Stop by 41653 Margarita Rd #104, Temecula, CA 92591, and experience the rich, authentic flavors that have made Zen a beloved part of the Temecula restaurant scene.

Watch the full interview here:

ZULBAATAR Jenny

Spreading Financial Education

 Life Insurance Planning

Protect

Retirement Planning

Build

 Investment Strategies

Maximize

 College Savings Planning

Create

 Financial Education

Gain

Wendy Mondragon

Wake Up Flawless, Every Day! ✨

Innovative Beauty Designs by Wendy Mondragon oﬀers expert esthetic experiences and services designed for eﬀortless beauty that lasts.

Whether you want naturally lifted brows & lashes, ﬂawless permanent makeup, or glowing skin, Wendy is your Estie Bestie!

✅ Low-Maintenance Beauty: Wake up looking put-together without the daily hassle.

✅ Personalized for You: Every treatment is tailored to enhance your natural features.

✅Long-Lasting Results: No smudging, no fading—just beauty that stays.

✅ Safe & Effective Solutions: Advanced techniques for stunning, skinfriendly results.

�� Located at Suite #20 inside Sola Suites, Promenade Mall, Temecula �� Limited Spots Available – Book Your Glow-Up Experience Today!

�� Call/Text: 619-371-8086

�� Visit: InnovativeBeautyDesigns.com

Black Tie Productions

Capturing Moments. Creating Legacies

Where

•

DR. DAVE POMMERENCK

A Chiropractic Journey

Back in the softly lit Fresh Scoop Studio, suffused with gentle orange and blue hues, Dr. Dave Pommerenck sat tall in a black suit and tie. He showed barely a flicker of amusement when humor arose in conversation as he cracked one joke to the next. Yet beneath that calm exterior glimmered an undeniable wit. His voice was rich, warm, and resonant, the kind one might expect from a seasoned audiobook narrator, adding a sense of comfort to his every word.

From the beginning, he introduced himself simply and succinctly: “My name is Dr. Dave Pommerenck. I’m a chiropractor. My office is located at 25095 Jefferson Avenue, Suite 203.”

Although his hands remained still during most of the interview, his steady eye contact and impressive storytelling would captivate anyone within earshot. Now, three weeks into the grand opening of his new practice, he expressed gratitude and relief at the positive response from the community. “It’s better than I thought it was ever going to be,” he said matter-of-factly.

When asked how he discovered the world of chiropractic, Dr. Dave’s expression remained as measured as ever, yet his story was anything but ordinary.

At 19, Dave Pommerenck was in a harrowing automobile accident. A bald tire blew out late one night, sending the car tumbling through a chain-link fence. He emerged with only a few stitches, but the repercussions of that accident would unfold over the next few years. Chronic headaches, sinus troubles, and an eventual diagnosis of pneumonia left him in a dire condition. Rather than accept a hospital admission, he sensed might end badly (as his own father had passed away in that facility the year before), he instead listened to a friend’s suggestion: “Why not see a chiropractor?”

On his first visit, he had a fever of 105.5 degrees, which the doctor explained stemmed from injuries in his neck that were affecting his lungs. Nonchalantly, Dr. Dave recounted how, “He told me I’d be back to work in two weeks.” The improbable became real; with a specific chiropractic regimen and vitamins, his fever subsided, his headaches disappeared, and his sinus problems resolved. A year later, a football-related injury brought him to another

chiropractor, the dean of a chiropractic college, who saw Dr. Dave’s potential and encouraged him to join the profession. The rest, as he phrased it with understated conviction, was history.

In conversation, Dr. Dave displayed an intriguing habit: whenever he said something remarkable, he might shrug slightly or turn his palms upward as if to say, “That’s just what happened.” He recounted practicing in Italy for three and a half years, where he partnered with top neurologists and orthopedic surgeons, often seeing up to 150 patients a day. In normal Dr. Dave fashion, he nonchalantly detailed how he had also served as past president of multiple organizations, including a Chamber of Commerce, speaking of these achievements as casually as though they were routine.

Eventually, Dr. Dave and his wife, Deborah, moved to Temecula. After 33 years in a Torrance-area practice, he discovered that many longtime friends had passed away, prompting Deborah to insist he retire. For a time, he worked in other doctors’ offices all over California, but it was not enough. He missed the calling he had come to see as his life’s purpose: “I have to finish what I was meant to do—get sick people well and get people out of pain,” he told us.

Deborah, who had started her own cookie business, could see Dave was out of his element and not following his purpose. Putting her love for her husband first, she encouraged him to follow this passion. Now, with a new office bustling with patients, he observed in that same unhurried tone, “It’s just been a blessing.”

When asked about his motivation, he shrugged gently, as though the answer were obvious: “I see people in a lot of pain, and they don’t know what to do about it.” He insisted on the importance of thorough examinations, including X-rays.

“Not to see is to guess,” he explained in a tone that left no doubt about the seriousness of his words; like one misstep could be the difference between healing and harm. He shared stories of patients who arrived with severe headaches,

Spotlight DR. DAVE POMMERENCK

numb limbs, or chronic backaches and left with relief after a precise adjustment. One patient, experiencing constant bloating, discovered that the nerves in her lower back were affecting her intestines. Another arrived barely able to lift her head, only for X-rays to reveal bone cancer that made certain maneuvers far too risky. “If I had adjusted her without those images, she might have been paralyzed or worse,” he said.

The topic of trendy, social-media-famous adjustments, like the so-called Y-strap that violently jerks a patient’s neck, elicited a shift in Dr. Dave’s facial expression, an internal eye roll that even he couldn’t hide. The annoyance was real.

“That’s very non-specific and can be dangerous,” he said sternly, citing the potential for serious arterial damage in the neck.

In that stern tone, he encouraged anyone suffering from unexplained pain to seek a proper diagnosis. “Even if you don’t know how to describe the pain, at least come in for an exam,” he offered.

His newest practice aims to be accessible, with an introductory $49 examination and X-ray for new patients, a conscious effort to make care affordable to as many people as possible.

Throughout the interview, his gaze never wavered, and his humor remained as deadpan as ever. Yet his empathy was unmistakable, revealed in the countless stories of patients who arrived in despair and left feeling hopeful. When asked what people should know about him, he simply replied, “I love what I do. This is where I’m meant to be.”

His gentle confidence made it clear: Dr. Dave Pommerenck is indeed a man on a mission; though one might never suspect from his quiet composure and dry wit just how profound his impact has already been. Call Dr. Dave to make your appointment at (951) 894-5006.

the full interview here:

Community SPOTLIGHT NOMINEE

Congratulations to Waleed Soro of Babati’s Bakery!

They’re amazing. Their food is heaven and their passion for cooking and love for people shine through. It is at its best, serving their community with love and passion

~Nominated by Jessica Smith

Scan here to nominate a business

THE RESULTS ARE IN...

What’s your favorite way to celebrate the holidays in Temecula Valley?

JOIN IN ON OUR NEXT POLL!

THIS POLL’S QUESTION:

What’s the best way to embrace a “New Year, New You” in Temecula Valley?

OPTIONS

■ Exploring a new local restaurant

■ Joining a new wellness program

■ Attending networking events to meet new people

■ Trying a new outdoor adventure, like hiking or wine tours

Scan here to vote

Strolling through the beautifully lit Old Town Temecula.

Ice skating at Temecula On Ice. Attending the Temecula Chilled Winter Wonderland events. Driving Through Decorated Neighborhoods.

Spotlight

FELICIA HARRIS

A Radiant Heart and a Giving Spirit

From the moment Felicia Harris entered Fresh Scoop Studio, she seemed to illuminate the room like a beacon of spring sunshine. Though clouds and drizzle lay just beyond the studio walls, her bright smile and softly patterned floral dress countered the gloom outside. She wore a white half-sweater over her dress, and her skin glowed under the studio lights. Throughout the interview, her hands remained calmly folded in her lap, revealing a gentle tranquility. Yet, beneath that poise, a lively energy showed through each joyful laugh and every animated nod.

Felicia spoke with a subtle southern accent that brightened further whenever she smiled as she spoke.

“Felicia Harris here,” she said, her voice carrying a musical twang, “and I’m a Mary Kay independent beauty consultant and sales director.” She then recounted the highlights of her life: her husband, Arvelta Sr., whom she fondly called the love of her life; their three adult children; and four “glamdaughters,” an endearing term that conveyed how deeply she treasured her family.

In her melodious voice, Felicia explained how she came to Mary Kay, weaving a story that began on a cruise ship twenty-three years ago. At the time, she worked in mortuary science, serving as a funeral director and a licensed embalmer. Despite the somber nature of her day job, her personal disposition was anything but grim. She described meeting a “Mary Kay lady” on that cruise, recalling the woman’s certainty:

“She said, ‘You’re going to be on my team,’ and I was like, “What team is that? I already have a full-time job. But we connected, I joined, and we’ve been doing life ever since. She’s watched my kids grow up, I’ve watched her kids grow up, and it’s just been a wonderful partnership. So I love what I do. I really do.”

After two decades of balancing her mortuary work with Mary Kay, Felicia found herself laid off, right before the onset of COVID. She revealed how her mentor advised her to write a resignation letter in advance, just in case. Although she never dated the letter, Felicia said with a resonant laugh that she now believes a higher power intervened. On the last day of July, she was unexpectedly let go, entering August—the eighth month, which she associated with new beginnings.

FELICIA HARRIS

Spotlight

“So I decided to promote myself to directorship,” Felicia affirmed, as though channeling the warmth of a Tennessee summer into each word. “I’m just so fortunate that I had built a part time business to help with our bills. We never lost a home, never lost a payment. I mean, it’s been great, but I have fun and the flexibility.”

She never looked back. Although her husband’s health challenges initially made the decision seem risky, she discovered that the flexibility of direct sales brought both financial stability and personal fulfillment. “And I get to teach men and women how to care for their skin,” she said, beaming.

Felicia’s giving nature also extended beyond cosmetics. She spoke about Greater Works Today, a nonprofit organization in Texas with which she is deeply involved. Her two major fundraisers included chemo-care kits for cancer patients and the Adopt the Elderly program.

Her voice rose in empathy as she explained the joy of handing gifts to seniors who might otherwise receive nothing at all. “I want them to know they’re not forgotten,” she said, unclasping her hands for emphasis. Then she gave a hearty laugh when describing how some seniors, surprised by the generosity, asked if they needed to pay. “Oh no,” she’d say. “This is a gift for you, free and clear.”

That desire to serve others, she revealed, stemmed from her upbringing. “My parents raised me to give back. If you’ve been blessed, then bless others,” she said, voice dipping momentarily in reminiscence. “If more people did something like that, the world would be a better place.”

Originally from Union City, Tennessee, she had moved to California in 1986. The transition was especially startling for her husband, who had never traveled far from his home state.

“He asked, ‘Where’s the grass?’” Felicia recounted with a laugh. “In Tennessee, grass is everywhere, but here, it’s different. You buy sod!”

Settling in Winchester in 2004, Felicia found a community that aligned well with her expansive heart and collaborative spirit. She quickly became a fixture at local chamber events and volunteered wherever she could.

In her final remarks, Felicia conveyed her heartfelt message to the people of Temecula: she wanted them to know she was

Spotlight FELICIA HARRIS

a woman of her word, always striving to serve others without seeking attention. “I believe that if you are a person of your word, then people will support you. And wherever your heart is, go for it. If it’s to be your own boss, go for it. If it’s to be of service, go for it.”

With eyes shining, she offered her contact details for those interested in Mary Kay or sponsoring her nonprofit initiatives.

“I’m here,” she stated simply, hands folding back together in her lap. “And I’m ready to help.”

In that softly lit studio, Felicia’s spirit shone as brightly as her radiant smile. Through her southern warmth, unwavering commitment, and sincere laughter, she showed that caring for others is a vocation on par with any profession. Her calm voice and glowing complexion seemed to embody everything she stood for—hope, kindness, and an unbreakable faith in the good that comes from helping another human being.

Felicia received her Honorary Doctoral Degree on June 17, 2023 awarded by Global International Alliance with a Doctoral Degree in Humanitarianism.

If you want to donate to Greater Works Today, Inc., or learn how to sponsor any of Felicia’s initiatives, text her at 619-8431301 or email her at fharris749@gmail. com. If you’re

Spotlight

VICTOR MONTERO

Leading With Heart at Karl Strauss Temecula

The private event space at Karl Strauss Temecula carried a comfortable buzz that afternoon, the scent of craft beer mingling with the savory aroma of grilled specialties. Sitting inside a booth adorned with an image of gleaming Karl Strauss bottles, General Manager Victor Montero folded his hands beneath the table, reflecting a calm confidence. He wore a Karl Strauss hoodie, and his smile was as warm as the atmosphere he helped cultivate.

Victor had joined Karl Strauss barely a year prior, but his swift rise to general manager suggested a level of commitment and leadership experience that was anything but ordinary.

“I’ve been the general manager here at Karl Strauss Temecula since October of 2023,” he stated, voice steady despite admitting he felt a bit of nervousness talking on camera. With a genuine laugh, he mentioned how conversation was essentially his job, and any apprehension quickly melted away as he started speaking passionately about his journey.

Before Karl Strauss, Victor had been working at Starbucks, poised to become a store manager. He described how he initially took on a side gig at Karl Strauss, but soon realized that the brewery’s environment and core values resonated with him more deeply than the corporate path he had followed.

“I ended up moving up really fast,” he explained. “I was offered a supervisor role, then an assistant manager position in Costa Mesa. Within months, a general manager position opened up in Temecula, and my boss said, ‘Here’s the job if you want it, but you have thirty days to move.’” Victor chuckled softly at the memory, recalling his scramble to relocate from Orange County. “I did it in record time. I moved in twenty days,” he said, a hint of pride in his tone.

Though the transition felt sudden, he was grateful to share the experience with his fiancée, a milestone he was proud to be celebrating during this new chapter. Victor shared that Temecula made him feel right at home. The slower pace, cleaner streets, and sense of community stood out. “Going to the grocery store or Costco in Orange County was shoulder to shoulder,” he recounted. “Temecula’s a blessing. I love it here.”

Slightly pivoting in his seat, he reflected on his lifelong background in leadership. From his first job at Knott’s Berry Farm onward, Victor found himself in supervisory or managerial roles. Yet he resisted labeling himself a “badass,” a label that we felt befitting given his background. “I learned by making mistakes and taking risks. I used to speak my mind no matter what, but now I realize timing is everything. Being a leader means knowing when to speak and when to listen.”

His time at Karl Strauss hasn’t been without its challenges. Arriving from the Costa Mesa location, he initially assumed the same strategies would apply in Temecula. “That didn’t work out too well,” he said with a subdued laugh.

“My employees said, ‘No, you just got here. You don’t know how we do things at this store.’ I had to set aside my ego, acknowledge I was new, and earn their respect rather than force it.”

When asked how his employees might describe him, Victor’s earnest nature surfaced. “I think they’d say I’m all about accountability,” he answered. “But it’s not just for them; it’s for me, too. If I make a mistake, I own it. The key is admitting there’s a problem before we can fix it.”

His approach as a manager mirrors his role as a mentor and coach. With two managers recently transferred to help open Karl Strauss’ new Corona location, Victor faces the task of developing a new managerial team. He emphasized the importance of self-awareness, humility, and learning from errors. “Even good leaders make bad decisions, but the best leaders, own them and improve.”

Spotlight VICTOR MONTERO

Slight amusement flickered in his eyes as he detailed the qualities that set Karl Strauss apart from other companies he had worked for, including big-name brands like Starbucks.

“Karl Strauss feels less corporate. We have these core values that really mean something—K is for ‘Kare for each other, our community and the environment,’ A is for ‘Authentic relationships based on trust and integrity,’ R is for ‘Respect, share and enjoy our craft,’ L is for ‘Learn, improve and grow.’ I’m passionate about them because it’s more than just selling beer; it’s about making real human connections. We might talk about sales numbers, sure, but at the end of the day, we’re here to make people happy, one beer at a time.”

He nodded toward a wall displaying framed photographs of Karl Strauss’ signature ales. “When people come in, I don’t just want them to think of the brewery. I want them to think of Temecula, to think of a place they can share stories, meet great staff, and enjoy good food. My boss, Michael Brooks, always says, ‘We don’t take ourselves too seriously.’ We come in, we do our jobs with integrity, but we also have fun. And that’s exactly what I love about it.”

His respect for the crew echoed in every statement. He saw them as collaborators, not subordinates, a reflection of his personal leadership skills. “Happy employees make happy guests,” he offered, as though it were the most natural logic in the world. And for Victor, it was.

When asked about the future, he leaned forward. “I don’t see myself going anywhere else. This is my home right now.” He smiled, a calm assurance in his gaze, as though he were envisioning the years ahead in Temecula. “I’m excited about what’s next, but in the meantime, I’m here.”

With a final pause, he wanted to invite the community to experience Karl Strauss first-hand. “Come meet me, come meet Andrew, my assistant manager, come meet all our amazing employees. We’re about good food, great beer, but most importantly, about making real connections. You’ll feel it the second you step inside.”

In the warmly lit booth, Victor’s blend of amiable friendliness and professional acumen seemed to epitomize what Karl Strauss strives for; authentic relationships, mutual respect, and a promise to keep growing. And just as he spoke about accountability and humility, he raised his glass for a celebratory cheers, a fitting gesture for a leader whose dedication to both his team and his patrons shines through in every interaction.

Watch the full interview here:

The Connect

Connect. Collaborate. Grow. Join The Connect and Karl Strauss Brewing Co. for three months of strategic networking, collaboration, and growth.

�� Event Dates: February 26 | March 26 | April 30 | 6–8 PM

What to Expect:

✔ Connect with industry leaders & entrepreneurs

✔ Collaborate on innovative projects

✔ Grow your network & professional reach

�� Showcase Your Business – 10 exclusive vendor tables available!

�� Free Admission – Just make a purchase at Karl Strauss Brewing Co.

�� DM @the.connect.ca to secure your spot!

Hitprint works closely with companies to ensure their message is clear and their brand is noticed visibley by their customers. Consumers want brands that share their values, so we make sure we understand yours. This is what sets us apart from our competition and why we are the most trusted name in print & promotional products throughout the Temecula Valley area.