Valley News - March 22, 204

Hemet Police

Chief reports city violent and property crime rates down in 2023

Tony Ault Staff Writer

Hemet police Chief Michael Arellano shared a report with the Hemet City Council Tuesday, March 12, that the city’s violent

Arellano said the Hemet crime statistics, in comparison with previous years when the rates were higher, will soon be available for review on the city website.

Local students devote their time to civic engagement

Diane A. Rhodes

Special to Valley News

Crystal Rubnerth teaches AP Government & Politics and Economics at Temecula Valley High School. She also coordinates the California Seal of Civic Engagement Seal program at her school for the third year and has been on the Temecula Valley Unified School District’s planning board from the start of the program in September 2020.

RivCo Board of Supervisors passes two resolutions to save cat lives

RIVERSIDE COUNTY –The Riverside County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously Tuesday, March 12, to support two resolutions by Animal Services officials: one that would see healthy, uninjured cats returned to their native environments and the other providing support for the 5,000 Cat Challenge – an initiative that seeks to improve live outcomes for cats in Riverside County in 2024.

Temecula Marine marches in remembrance of Bataan Death March

Julie Reeder Publisher

Against the backdrop of dark early morning Temecula skies at 5:30 a.m., Retired Marine Sgt. Maj. Emilio Hernandez embarked on a 26-mile journey commemorating The Bataan Memorial Death March from Capt. Aaron J. Contreras Memorial Park in Temecula. The march is to give honor and tribute to the veterans both alive and deceased who braved the events of 1942, and in particular the Bataan Death March that took place in the Philippines during World War II.

This is the 13th annual march for Hernandez who marches locally each year for the virtual event, while thousands march at White Sands, New Mexico. Last year the Las Cruces Sun newspaper reported that about 5,000 arrived for the annual march. In 2019, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, there

were 10,000 participants reported.

In 2019, former POW Valdemar De Herrera, age 103, reported to be the last survivor of the Bataan Death March, was present at the opening ceremony and was recognized by WSMR Commander Brig. Gen. Eric Little.

“While you’re marching through the high desert this morning, likely into the afternoon, remember those who were forced to participate in a very different march 81 years ago, many to the death. When your feet hurt, knees, hips, whatever the body part, think about them. Use that as fuel to reinforce your remembrance of these great heroes. We, everyone marching, really are privileged with the opportunity to honor sacrifice today,” Little said. Why does Hernandez do this every year? He said, “For many reasons, but the main one, because I have the privilege to do see MARCH, page A-4

SpaceX rocket launch wows SoCal residents with spectacular sunset views

Kim

SpaceX

Many

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as far away as Arizona and Utah reportedly witnessing the event.

Ret. Sgt. Maj Emilio Hernandez finishes his 26-mile Bataan Death March memorial walk with neighbors. It is his 13th annual march in remembrance.

Valley News photo

Supervisor Yxstian Gutierrez proclaims Cyndi Lemke Riverside County’s 5th District 2024 Woman of the Year

RIVERSIDE – Fifth District

Riverside County Supervisor

Yxstian Gutierrez proclaimed

Cyndi Lemke the Fifth District 2024 Woman of the Year for her outstanding contributions to the Hemet-San Jacinto Valley. The Women’s Inspiration Awards Woman of the Year award is presented annually during Women’s History Month to women who have made a positive impact on their communities, with different themes being highlighted each year.

The award was introduced by the County of Riverside in 2021 to align with International Women’s Day and to celebrate the outstanding contributions of women in the county who have made a commitment to improving their communities through innovation and advocating for social and economic change.

Throughout the month of February, each district witnessed a hefty sum of nominations for the Women’s Inspiration Awards 2024 Woman of the Year, a reflec-

tion of the many female leaders throughout the county who are dedicated to the welfare of their communities.

In the Fifth District, Cyndi Lemke was selected for this award by Supervisor Gutierrez for embodying this year’s themes of inspiration and inclusion. Cyndi is the Executive Director of the Hemet-San Jacinto Valley Chamber of Commerce, which, under her leadership, has seen a significant increase in business memberships in the San Jacinto Valley. She also devotes her time to volunteering at public events and nonprofit organizations like Care-A-Van, a nonprofit dedicated to providing transportation to seniors. The Woman of the Year award is a testament to Cyndi’s achievements and recognizes her commitment to inspiring others in the community to get involved.

“It was a difficult decision to make because there were a lot of nominations, but when you look at that theme, to inspire and to include those most vulnerable popu-

lations, it was an easy decision to make,” Gutierrez said. “Cyndi has a lot of history in the Hemet-San Jacinto area…She realized her passion was to truly help community members, and that’s what you see her do each and every day.”

“I am so humbled…Hearing the stories and knowing how wonderful you all are, we have some amazing leadership in Riverside County, and I’m just honored to be a part of it,” said Cyndi Lemke upon receiving the award.

Lemke was also selected by Gutierrez to lead the Employer Connect program in the San Jacinto Valley as well as the rest of District 5. The Employer Connect program is a program that will provide businesses with a three-month wage subsidy to hire residents in the Fifth District, addressing labor shortages while tackling homelessness in our communities.

For more information about Employer Connect, please contact the Office of County Supervisor Gutierrez at 951-955-1050.

Hemet Police Chief reports city violent and property crime rates down in 2023

Tony Ault Staff Writer

Hemet police Chief Michael Arellano shared a report with the Hemet City Council Tuesday, March 12, that the city’s violent crime rates and property crime rates in 2023 went down and are now close to the national average.

Arellano said the Hemet crime statistics, in comparison with previous years when the rates were higher, will soon be available for review on the city website.

He said that the department received 72,897 calls in 2023, including 70,530 emergency calls, and officers made 2,571 arrests,

which is a lower number than the arrests in 2022.

“That might be good,” he said.

Arellano explained to the council that the reduction of crime rates last year was due to several changes in the department’s beat assignments, additional FLOCK cameras, a department separation of the ROC Quality of Life officers and the Traffic Division that helped officers concentrate on their specialties.

He said in 2023, ROC’s team officers with other agencies cleared 196 homeless encampments and found housing for 119 homeless people. In their operations, they made 133 felony arrests and 187

misdemeanor citations and arrested 38 trespassers.

He indicated that the current FLOCK cameras and the additional FLOCK cameras that were recently approved by the council will number 104, along with four special moveable surveillance cameras that can be placed in higher crime and illegal traffic areas when needed.

A change in beat assignments this year will allow more officers to be in areas where more calls are being received as needed, especially in the nighttime hours.

He said the department’s response time for Priority 1 calls is faster, and he is “excited for this year’s efforts” when new officers are hired.

plete housing and transportation program is estimated at $15 million in infrastructure projects. In other business, the Hemet City Council reviewed and considered the allocations for the 20242025 Community Development Block Grant funding by an Ad Hoc Committee. The allocation for this fiscal year totals $827,276 which will be combined with the unallocated funding of $228,160.28 from fiscal years 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 for $1,029,029.

MURRIETA - Sunday, around 2:30 a.m., officers learned of a possible stolen U-Haul vehicle in the area of Clinton Keith Road and Grand Avenue on the MurrietaWildomar border.

Murrieta Police responded.

The vehicle was observed traveling west on Clinton Keith Road and accelerated away at a high rate of speed toward La Cresta. With favorable road conditions and a little help from Riverside County Sheriffs, the vehicle was safely disabled by spike strips and the pursuit was brought to an end in Temecula. Two occupants were arrested without incident and booked on numerous charges including felony evading and felony warrants.

The council, following the approval of 15 consent items, adopted a resolution authorizing the submission of a joint application to the Department of Housing and Community Development for the Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities Program to fund Transportation Infrastructure Capital Projects and amenities.

Leading the way for an agreement with the Riverside County Transportation Commission to construct and maintain a bike lane and pedestrian walkway along the railroad right away between Menlo Avenue and Palm Avenue and a cooperative agreement between the city and Riverside Transportation Agency to support the project.

Basically, it would allow residents of a planned low-cost housing project to use the bike and walkway into the downtown area of the city instead of other costly transportation. Cost of the com-

A total of 15% of that amount can be allocated to local nonprofit community programs to help them with the underserved and low income residents of the community. The rest of the annual Federal Housing and Urban Development grant requires the city to “carry out a wide range of community development activities directed toward revitalizing neighborhoods, economic development and providing improved community facilities and services, with maximum feasible priority given to activities that benefit low and moderate-income persons.” Thus Hemet is responsible for developing its own programs and funding priorities within CDBG and HUD requirements, as well as monitoring sub-recipients of the funds awarded under this grant.

Staff said, “During this year’s annual CDBG funding process, the city received 28 applications requesting over $2.9 million in grant funds by the Dec. 11, 2023, due date. Of these 28 applications, seven are from city operations and 20 are from nonprofit agencies and one for-profit agency.”

The applications were reviewed

to ensure HUD’s established criteria were met. On Feb. 8, the Ad Hoc City Council Committee, including Council member Carole Kendrick and Council member Malcolm Lilienthal, reviewed applications and provided funding recommendations for full council consideration.

The recommendations made by the AD Hoc Committee were listed in a project description, now available in the Hemet City Council meeting minutes with most of the funding going into city infrastructure needs like sidewalks, ADA programs, transit systems, property repairs and Police Explorer program. The Community Pantry was recommended to receive $15,000 and the EXCEED program $9,000 same as last year’s allocation. The council allotted $46,000 for the Fair Housing Council of Riverside County, while nonprofit community programs like the Hemet Library, Voices for Children and the Community Feed program received approximately $186,000 combined. This year, the Ad Hoc Committee dropped Michelle’s Places Cancer Resource Center’s allocation and added allocations for Hemet Theater Gives Back at $10,000 and Black Voices of the Valley at $7,500. The list of fund recommendations can be found in the Hemet City Council’s general meeting video presentation on YouTube.

The council proclaimed March to be American Red Cross and Women’s History Month.

Tony Ault can be reached by email at tault@reedermedia.com.

Supervisor Yxstian Gutierrez, left, honors Cyndi Lemki, right, as the Fifth District 2024 Woman of the Year.

Valley News/Courtesy photo

Wildomar joins with local Indian bands to preserve their resources in building transitional housing units

Tony Ault Staff Writer

The Wildomar City Council gave its approval for Assembly Bill 168 Cultural Resource Treatment and Disposition between the city and the Pechanga and Soboba bands of Luiseño Indians allowing the construction of a proposed 85bed transitional housing complex by Project T.O.U.C.H. in the area for the homeless.

The agreement with other cities will allow the tribes to monitor the excavation of a transitional complex for the “treatment and disposition of all Tribal Cultural Resources, ceremonial items, items of cultural patrimony, artifacts and Native American human remains and associated grave goods, in the event that any are found in conjunction with development of the Senate Bill 35 affordable and transitional housing projects, including archaeological studies, excavation, geotechnical investigations, grading, trenching and any ground disturbing activities.”

Wildomar recently joined the city of Murrieta in contracting with Project T.O.U.C.H. to provide transitional housing for any homeless individuals located in the two cities which complies with the state mandates SB 35 to help all cities to find homes for the homeless.

A Project T.O.U.C.H. representative was at the council meeting Wednesday, March 13, to explain their program that provides a temporary shelter for homeless people in Riverside County for up to 28 days. Murrieta has one transitional housing unit that can house 220 to 250 homeless daily. Police, sheriff and code enforcement officers can

call Project T.O.U.C.H. 24 hours a day to find shelter for the homeless on the streets. The representative said at times the home is filled up to capacity during inclement weather.

The representative said the project has been in operation for 15 to 20 years in the cities and manages four housing units for homeless men and women in the Inland Empire with another being sought. The council, with Council member Dustin Nigg excused, voted unanimously to make the agreement. The cities of Murrieta, Temecula, Menifee and Lake Elsinore also have agreed or may agree to the proposal. The Wildomar Council unanimously agreed to also work with God’s Fan Club also known as Project T.O.U.C.H., which stands for Together Our Unity Conquers Homelessness, for a $41,940 fee coming out of 2024 in the Measure AA Fund.

The Wildomar Council agreed to object to the State Constitutional Initiative No.21- 0042A1 The Taxpayer Protection and Government Accountability Act on the request of the City Manager Daniel York. York said the passage of the +50% majority vote could jeopardize many needed community facilities district special taxes that help the city bring needed infrastructure facilities to construction projects for water, sewers, landscaping and police and fire protections over the long term. A letter from the city council, explaining their objections to the initiative, will now be sent to Sacramento and provided to the public. One such new CFD exists with the planned Tres Lagos Apartments, Phase 2 project passed that same evening with the necessary approval vote of the developer.

There were no public hearings before the city council that evening.

On the earlier agenda were the presentations of recognition given to 11 students from first through eighth grades at the Julia Lee Performing Arts Academy in Lake Elsinore who won a place in the upcoming Southern California Inventors Convention for coming up with inventions in STEM classrooms. Four of the academy students live in Wildomar. It is a free public charter school. Each student named their invention that will be shown at the convention. It is the only school in Riverside invited to the event.

Aaron Hake, executive director of the Riverside County Transportation Commission, gave a presentation of the proposed 2024 Traffic Relief Plan that hopefully will find a place on the November ballot to vote on by county residents. Approving the plan would bring $25 million to relieve traffic problems on the area highways in the next decade with the help of a one-cent county sales tax. The money raised from the measure will stay in Riverside County.

Hake outlined the specific traffic relief projects seen for the city of Wildomar in that time if the measure is passed in November for new freeway offramps, highway widenings and traffic control and other roadway additions.

Hake is appearing at other city council meetings in the Valley hoping to get their support for the measure that will also benefit other county regions like the Coachella Valley. The council took it under advisement.

Tony Ault can be reached by email at tault@reedermedia.com.

Carolyn Anne Baustian, 92, peacefully passed away on March 5, 2024, in Rogers, Arkansas. She was born on May 15, 1931, in Little Rock, Arkansas to the late

James Everett and Sallie (Heilman) Jones.

Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Kenneth Frank Baustian; sister Barbara Deivert; and daughter-in-law Claudia Baustian. Carolyn is survived by her sister, Charlotte Calvin of California; son Philip Baustian of Ohio; daughters Suzanne Clinard (Mark) of Arkansas and Rebecca Perdue (Bill Lightfoot) of North Carolina; four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be April 13, 2024, at 11 a.m. in Miller Jones Menifee Memorial Park and Mortuary, Menifee, Calif. Online condolences can be made at www.miller-jones.com.

Murrieta Fire & Rescue releases annual report, highlighting achievements and continued commitment

MURRIETA – Murrieta Fire & Rescue (MFR) is pleased to announce the release of its 2023 Annual Report, which details the department’s significant accomplishments, achievements, and key statistics from the past year. The report underscores MFR’s ongoing commitment to continuous improvement while serving the residents of Murrieta.

“Murrieta Fire & Rescue provides this report to show the incredible work our team does for our citizens every day,” said Fire Chief Bernard Molloy of Murrieta Fire & Rescue. “It is truly an honor to highlight our entire organization in such a positive light to our elected officials, the public, and city staff.”

The 2023 Annual Report highlights several key achievements, including:

• Efficient response times for fire and emergency medical service (EMS) calls.

• Successful re-accreditation by the Center for Public Safety Excellence (CPSE).

• Continued focus on community outreach and risk reduction.

In addition, the comprehensive report details MFR’s diverse range of activities, including:

• Fire suppression

• Emergency medical services

• Technical rescue

• Hazardous materials response

• Community outreach programs

• Community risk reduction initiatives

The 2023 Annual Report is available for public viewing on the City of Murrieta website at https:// bit.ly/48EnAbQ. Submitted by the City of Murrieta.

it.” He shared the importance of remembering the sacrifices of those who paved the way before us. He recounted the brutal conditions of the Bataan Death March.

“The rain today reminds us of the unpredictable and harsh conditions faced by those who marched through Bataan,” he remarked, acknowledging the rain as both a physical challenge and a poignant reminder of the hardships endured by the prisoners of war.

Hernandez continued, “If you read about the Bataan Death March, I mean, that’s exactly what it was. It was a march where the Japanese moved U.S. Marines and Army prisoners of war, Filipino Marines as well as thousands of Filipino civilian prisoners of war and some Air National Guard. They moved them for about 60 miles through a triple canopy jungle. Some were very malnourished, some were sick, had malaria, you name it. They literally were marching them to death. It got to the point where they were very, very slow as I was, here in some of the hills, but what happened to them is that the Japanese would stack them in three and use a bayonet to kill three in one stroke so that they could save bullets.”

The American and Filipino forces had surrendered after seven months of fighting. There were reported to be as many as 75,000. “So I do this because I can, because of men like them,” Hernandez said, while pointing to his neighbor, veteran Michael Higgins, who made the trek with him that day, carrying a flag as well.

“Men like him who paved the road for our freedoms and our liberty.

So my pains don’t come close to their families - the Gold Star families and also law enforcement.”

Marching with Hernandez and Higgins was Higgins’ guide dog,

two other neighbors Lily and Djan Stekovic, as well as an unnamed person who joined somewhere en route with their dog. Hernandez’s wife Nary Hernandez, is a nurse. She provided support and encouragement throughout the day and refreshments and a cake at the end of the march. Hernandez spoke of supportive members in the community being crucial as well. “You have nurses, you have doctors that put others before themselves. I would like to bring the community together because again, everybody’s important. I would like to one day get to where we come together and do something bigger than us.”

He shared how gratifying it is, during the march, for people to be waving at him from their cars or maybe walking alongside for a little while in a show of support. He hopes to grow the march into a community event that transcends individual participation, bringing together civilians, veterans and active-duty military personnel in a shared act of remembrance and respect. He expressed a desire to bring the community together, to do something bigger than oneself, and to honor not just the military but also those in public service who put others before themselves.

The interview revealed Hernandez’s deep military background and his extensive service, which has shaped his views on leadership, duty, and the importance of remembering the sacrifices of others. His early years started at Camp Pendleton for 11 years to his challenging but rewarding time at Twenty-Nine Palms, and his service as a drill instructor back at Pendleton as well as the chief instructor for the pre-Sniper School.

During the march, Hernandez carries a 35-lb rucksack filled with personal items and symbols of remembrance, including a flag flown in Iraq to honor Marines he

At the end of the march, everyone was wet from the rain.

knew and lost, and bullet casings to represent their service. “It’s got a story, and it’s my story, and I show that story,” he said. “So I take her (the flag) everywhere that I go. I have three casings of bullets in there to represent their service near and dear to me.” His conversation also touched on the broader experiences of those who serve in the military, from the places they’ve been stationed to the challenges and triumphs of their service. The importance of connection, whether through a honk of support from a passerby or the shared experiences of service, was a recurring theme, highlighting the human aspect of military service and the enduring

bonds it creates, as opposed to just connection through a phone or electronic device.

In sharing his story and the reasons behind his annual march, Retired Marine Sgt. Maj. Emilio Hernandez illustrates the power of remembrance and the impact of individual actions to honor the past. His dedication to commemorating the Bataan Death March and ensuring that the sacrifices of those who suffered are never forgotten serves as a poignant reminder of the costs of freedom and the resilience of the human spirit.

For more information, visit https://bataanmarch.com.

Nary Hernandez is wearing a shirt with the Waves Project for veterans, another good cause.

Veterans and neighbors join the team at 5:30 a.m. to start their journey.

People join for part of the marching journey.

Marcher Emilio Hernandez.

Marchers Hernandez and Stekovic.

Valley News/Nary Hernandez photo

Valley News/Nary Hernandez photo

Valley News photo

Valley News photo

Valley News/Courtesy photo

Valley News/Courtesy photo

Murrieta Fire & Rescue appoints new fire marshal

MURRIETA – Murrieta Fire & Rescue announced the appointment of Doug Strosnider as the department’s new fire marshal.

“It is an honor to serve as Murrieta’s next fire marshal,” Strosnider said. “Prevention is the most effective way to keep our community and firefighters safe. My fire service career started in 1991, and my passion and love for the job has not waned. I look forward to using my expertise to protect Murrieta.”

Strosnider assumed the role Sunday, March 10. He brings his experience and expertise to Murrieta Fire & Rescue, serving as the

department’s deputy fire marshal and acting fire marshal. “In the past two years that I have worked with Deputy Fire Marshal Strosnider, I have found him to be a dedicated professional whose knowledge of the fire code and commitment to Murrieta’s citizens’ safety is unparalleled,” Murrieta fire Chief Bernard Molloy II said. “Doug has proven that he has the character it takes to manage the difficult task of balancing the priorities of fire prevention and community risk reduction. The fire department must provide our citizens with a safe community, ad-

hering to all required regulations, while at the same time providing our development community with a pathway to ensure their projects are successful; Doug has undoubtedly mastered this skill.” Strosnider was hired in 2015 as a fire inspector with the city of Murrieta. He has over 36 years of experience in the fire service, having served in various capacities, including deputy fire chief in Nampa, Idaho, before relocating to Southern California.

Submitted by Murrieta Fire & Rescue.

Doug Strosnider is Murrieta Fire & Rescue’s new fire marshal.

Valley News/Courtesy photo

$39.3M federal funds secured for

the Murrieta Creek Flood Control Project (Phase 2B) through uptown Temecula

TEMECULA – Temecula Mayor James “Stew” Stewart announces, “Temecula businesses and residents located along Murrieta Creek will soon have critical flood protection.” Properties near Murrieta Creek will become the beneficiaries of the muchneeded Murrieta Creek Flood Control Project (Phase 2B). The Federal Government allocated $39,334,000 toward the construction of Phase 2B of the Murrieta Creek, which can now proceed due to the Fiscal Year 2024 House Energy and Water Development Appropriations Bill that was approved by the House and Senate last week and signed into law on Saturday, March 16.

“The Murrieta Creek Flood Control Project has been making progress in phases since the tragic flood of January 1993 that put parts of Old Town Temecula under water,” states Temecula Mayor Stewart. “We can now be relieved this won’t happen again thanks to US Representative Darrell Issa who advanced this important project to the Appropriations Committee with unwavering commitment throughout the years to protect businesses, landowners, and residents in our region who are vulnerable to flooding. We are grateful to Congressman Issa who ensured this Appropriation made it to the finish line.” Mayor Stewart led a coalition of City officials to Washington DC last week to advocate for continued support of this critical funding ahead of the Appropriation approvals. Mayor Stewart adds, “The City also expresses our gratitude to US Representative Ken Calvert who has been engaged since the beginning to secure funding for the phased improvements of Murrieta Creek, and to US Senator Padilla and US Senator Butler for their strong support of this project’s federal Appropriation.”

The City of Temecula has worked collaboratively for over

locations

three decades with Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District and the US Army Corps of Engineers to complete Phases 1 and 2A through Old Town. Phase 2B transverses through Uptown Temecula between Rancho California Road and Winchester Road and is anticipated to begin construction in 2025. The project is expected to change what the flood maps look like in Temecula; protecting the City’s local economy and infrastructure from future flooding.

City Manager Aaron Adams states, “We applaud our dedicated partners at Riverside County Flood Control and Army Corps of Engineers for their tireless efforts leading this project and we look forward to our ongoing collaboration.”

Murrieta Creek is recognized as one of the last high-quality and minimally disturbed riverine environments in Southern California. The Murrieta Creek project includes environmental and wetland restoration.

Submitted by the City of Temecula.

This diagram depicts

of the different phases of the Murrieta Creek Flood Control Project.

Valley News/Courtesy photo

Menifee’s Wright Family Rock House featured in presentation

Tony Ault Staff Writer

A small gathering of Menifee residents and history buffs met to hear about Menifee’s Wright Family Rock House during a slide presentation Saturday, March 16 at the Antelope-Menifee Rural Center presented by the Menifee Valley Historical Association.

Making the presentation about Menifee William Wright Rock House off Keller Road in Menifee were docents from the Menifee History Museum on Garbani Road.

Slides of the rock house and the Wright family in the 1930s at the house and inside of the house were shown and explained on slides.

An excerpt from the Wright family 1973 biography showed young Paul Wright in a family photo sitting on his donkey “Old Joe.” The biography says, “The rock house was built using Rose Quartz mined from nearby Crowfoot Mountain.

The walls of the house were 2-3 feet thick and kept the house cool in the summertime. Kerosene lamps

“Dazzling display of SpaceX rocket launch seen in Utah,” SLCScanner tweeted with a photo of the launch on X, the social media site formerly known as Twitter.

“I caught a SpaceX Falcon 9 launch from Arizona,” Nathan La Rue tweeted. “Looked really cool.”

“Crazy!!!! Just saw this launch from AZ!!!” Tempe, Arizona resident, DeVon Burgess said on a Facebook post along with a photo of the rocket moving through the sky. According to a replay of the

and candles were used for light. In the kitchen was a Majestic Wood Range on which all the cooking, baking and ironing was done.” It was learned Paul’s mother used everything; nothing went to waste in her household. She was a true believer in “Waste not. Want not.”

Complete details about the Wright Family and the Rock House can be seen at the Menifee History Museum, open on Sundays from 1-4 p.m. Special group tours are also available.

Every other month the museum presents a public program about Menifee’s early history from the 1880s to the present time.

Hundreds of historical photos and many farm implements used by the early Menifee settlers used in those times are on display when the Menifee Valley was mainly an agricultural community located north of the huge Vail Ranch that became the cities of Temecula, Wildomar and Murrieta. Many of the early Menifee Valley settlers’ names are seen on street signs bearing their names like Domenigoni, Garbani,

launch on the website, the Falcon 9’s first stage came back to Earth about 8 and a half minutes after liftoff, landing vertically on the droneship “Of Course I Still Love You,” stationed in the Pacific Ocean.

The launch and landing were the 10th for the booster, according to the SpaceX mission description. You can watch the full mission by visiting https:// www.spacex.com/launches/ mission/?missionId=sl-7-16 or on SpaceX’s post on X, where the successful deployment of the Starlink satellites was confirmed.

Condensation trails left behind following a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launch carrying 22 Starlink satellites line the skies above Murrieta Monday, March 18. The rocket lifted off from Vandenberg Space Force Base at 7:28 p.m. carrying the 22 satellites to low Earth orbit where they were deployed about an hour after liftoff.

Valley News/Kim Harris photo

Holland, Evans, Zieders, Newport and McCall. The museum itself is operated by the Menifee Valley Historical Association, a nonprofit organization. Admission to the museum is free, but donations are welcome. For more information, 951-708-6842 or https://menifee-

history.com/history-museum

Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com.

This photo, dated from 1936, shows Paul Wright as a young boy sitting on his donkey “Old Joe” in front of the Rock House. His father Edward is on the left and his mother Christine is second from the right.

Valley News/Menifee Valley Historical Society photo

LAUNCH from page A-1

March 22 – 28, 2024

Noli Indian School gives back with Bingo for Books

Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians Special to the Valley News

For more than 10 years, the Noli Indian School has organized a Bingo for Books night where the community is invited to join in the fun. The free event, held at the multi-purpose room adjacent to the Soboba Tribal Preschool, is made possible through a reading grant the school receives. Noli Principal Donovan Post, who was joined by his son at the event Friday, March 8, said it was great to see a lot of his students there but also to see them with their siblings and other family members.

A graduation requirement for seniors at Noli is the completion of 20 hours of community service, and a few students pitched in at the event to earn some of those hours. Suzette Almada and Brianna Caserez helped out by dispensing bingo cards and plastic chips, verifying winning cards and more. Caller Raymond Russell, with the help of a megaphone, kept the numbers rolling along.

Science teacher Sabrina Sobel and AVID/ASB coordinator Lorin Alvarez were on hand to keep things on track as more than 60

players awaited their turn to call out “BINGO!” Math teacher Kekai Bryant-Williams said she was happy to participate as were other staff members from the Soboba Reservation school that serves Native American students in grades 6-12. Noli Indian School board members Lucille Briones, Johnna Valdez and Antonia Venegas also brought family members to enjoy the event.

Soboba Tribal Preschool teacher Lenora “Ponie” Mojado was joined by her two sons and her mother. The family went home with lots of prizes, with Mac Pineda, 9, being the night’s first winner. His brother Eli, 7, won a few rounds later, as did his mother and grandmother.

The preschool hosted a Bingo Night fundraiser Thursday, March 21, and Mojado said this event was good practice for that one.

Prize packages contained STEM toys and games related to the books inside that had been purchased at Barnes & Noble. Each contained popular titles for all ages and the Noli students helped staff bundle them together. With Legos and Squishmallows galore, it was hard for young children to decide which plastic-wrapped package they most

wanted to take home.

Guests were also treated to a spaghetti dinner that included garlic bread and salad that was prepared in-house by community lead cook Jacob Rivera.

Bingo numbers were called, and cards were filled until five players won. Then the cards were cleared, and another five games were played, or less if there were five winners. No one could win more than once so there could be more winners throughout the evening.

“This event has been going on for years,” Post said. “We receive $35,000 to $60,000 a year through a reading grant that allows us to restock our library, provide necessary textbooks for our students, give awards and prizes for meeting reading goals and to celebrate Dr. Seuss week.”

He said under the grant, they are always looking for ways to celebrate reading and are happy they developed a way to give back to the families and community members that support the students and Noli school. The annual event started as a small venture but with the help of Noli reading teacher Jacquelin Phillips, it has grown immensely over the years.

Eli Pineda, 7, picks out a prize after winning a round of Bingo at Soboba, Friday, March 8. Valley News/Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians photos

Senior Raymond Russell of Noli Indian School calls bingo numbers during a free community event.

Senior Suzette Almada, standing, of Noli Indian School verifies winning numbers at Bingo for Books night.

Senior Suzette Almada of Noli Indian School helps a young winner reach his choice of prizes during her school’s Bingo for Books night.

Squishmallows were popular prizes with the bingo winners during the Bingo for Books at Noli Indian School at the Soboba Indian Reservation.

[Left] Donovan Post, at right, principal of Noli Indian School joins in the fun at Bingo for Books night, which was presented by the school to give back to the community.

[Right] Some of the bundled prizes await game winners attending Bingo for Books at Soboba.

EDUCATION

Lake Elsinore area students honored in March

Diane A. Rhodes

Special to Valley News

The Lake Elsinore Valley Chamber of Commerce Student of the Month program, celebrating its 28th season of honoring students who make a difference in their schools and communities, held its most recent recognition ceremony at the Lakeside High School Lancer Round Table Café on March 5. Lunch was prepared and served by members of the Lakeside Culinary Academy.

Sally A. Myers, founder of the nonprofit, welcomed everyone to the local high school program that acknowledges and honors college or trade school bound seniors for their character, love of learning and commitment to academics, in addition to participation in athletics, school activities and community service. It also commends those who have persevered through challenging life circumstances, all in a setting that honors God, country, family, community and free enterprise.

“We’re going to hear your stories, learn your passions and how you have made life better for others around you and that’s what we call the spirit of Student of the Month,” she said.

Large tote bags filled with gifts, certificates of recognition and much more donated by the program’s sponsors were given to the award recipients. Each student received a commemorative medallion and was invited to the podium to share their personal story, past challenges and future goals with a room full of supporters that included principals, teachers, peers and family members, as well as community and school district dignitaries.

March’s students of the month are Elsinore High School’s Natalie Lares Alonso and Lorenzo Perez, Keith McCarthy Academy’s Sergio Estrada, Lakeside High School’s Arianna Murray and Aidan Phommasa, Ortega High School’s Bostyn Copley and Temescal Canyon High School’s Xion Gordon and Matthew Yutuc.

Elsinore High School

Natalie Lares Alonso is the senior class salutatorian with a 4.64 GPA. She is a member of cheer (sideline, competition, stunts), Earth Club, California Scholarship Federation and National Honor Society. Natalie said, “Being bilingual, I have loved having the ability to communicate with so many people.” She plans to pursue law school and then maybe go into the field of criminology “It has come to my attention that so many families have struggled in terms of law and not being able to speak English, so I plan to use my ability of speaking two languages for the greater good and provide equal opportunities to non-English speaking families and individuals.” She said she learned to never be too hard on herself and to be proud of what she has accomplished. Crystal Hofmann, who teaches Honors English, said Natalie pushes herself to go over and beyond. “She’s humble enough to admit when she doesn’t know something and bold enough to pursue the knowledge until she has it. And that dedication didn’t end in the classroom,” Hofmann said, adding that she has been part of varsity cheerleading all four years and is a captain this year. Lorenzo Perez was described by Assistant Principal Brandon Stephens as a scholar athlete who is also a leader. He plays football and is on the track and field team. He is ASB Vice President and a member of CSF and NHS. Lorenzo said, “I’ve been very blessed to not have had to face any major struggles like some of the other students here today and I consider myself very lucky for that.” He has committed to play football and attend Hamline University in St. Paul where he will study history and education with the hope of returning to the community as a teacher and a coach. Lorenzo said not being the top player on the football team taught him to take advantage of any opportunities to improve and helped him learn the true meaning of the phrase “good things come to those who wait.” He said, “I think not having instant gratification all the time isn’t necessarily a bad thing; it allows you to appreciate your accomplishments even more.” Head

football coach Randy Kirschman has known Lorenzo since his freshman year and said, “He is extremely committed to excellence and brings his best when the best is needed.”

Keith McCarthy Academy singled out Sergio Estrada as March’s honoree. Principal Peter Hopping said it is notable that the honored student is graduating a year early, which is a testament to his hard work and dedication to his studies. “His passion for learning extends beyond the classroom as he has expressed a desire to pursue a degree in psychology with aspirations of become a pastor and/ or a private practices psychologist,” Hopping said. Sergio was homeschooled most of his life and transferred to KMA a year ago. He said his parents are pastors and volunteerism has always been an important part of his life. “The lesson I will take to college is that no matter how difficult life becomes, Jesus directs your path and if you put your faith and trust in him, he will carry the heavy load,” Sergio said. Alicia Payne, his homeroom and chemistry teacher, said, “Sergio truly is a role model for other students. He is very professional.” His father said a core value they’ve been able to establish in their home while Sergio was growing up is to be faithful in the little and God will bless you in the much. “If you understand the process, there is always promise and that’s what we live by,” he said.

Lakeside High School

Arianna Murray was introduced by Lakeside Principal Jason Eldridge, who said it is an honor for his school to host this event every month and welcome everyone to its beautiful campus. Arianna, who was celebrating her birthday that day, is vice president of the ASB Leadership program and Varsity Dance Team captain. She describes herself as a “military kid” whose father has been activeduty military for 17 years. “This

has given me the privilege of living in different parts of the United States including Tennessee, North Carolina, Arkansas and California,” Arianna said. “Growing up, I learned to adapt quickly to new environments and make friends easily but it also presented me with many challenges including saying goodbye to my friends and starting over in a new place and being the new girl at school.” She said being a military kid has taught her the importance of sacrifice and service and she plans to major in psychology at college. “My most important life lesson is that things take time, and it might not happen when you want it but it’s when you need it,” she said. English teacher Courtney Gonzalez said Arianna has a sparkle that everyone is attracted to.

Aidan Phommasa is Lakeside’s choice for this month. Eldrige said Aidan is known as “The Motivational Man” and is full of energy and wise beyond his years. He plans to attend UCLA to study business with hopes of becoming an entrepreneur. He is a member of the boys’ tennis team, Garden Club, Advanced Medicine Club and has been involved with AVID for eight years. He said during the pandemic, he felt isolated but learned that whenever you feel hopeless, you always have a redemption because you don’t stay at the bottom forever. Aidan said he started to find himself when in-person learning resumed in his sophomore year and he was able to find his purpose, which was to help others and spread kindness and happiness. In his junior year, he developed the persona of “The Motivational Man” and began posting motivational quotes and messages on social media. This led to him getting noticed and well known as this character he created for himself. Aidan said his senior year has been a transformative experience filled with many fun activities and added, “Live your

life to the fullest, never have any regrets and leave your biggest footprint (legacy) behind.”

Ortega High School chose to recognize Bostyn Copley Principal Greg Cleave said, “His intentionality always comes out in positive ways, in ways that support his colleagues, his classmates and his teachers around him.” Bostyn said that thanks to Ortega he was able to rekindle his passion for his education with a determination to get things done. He is part of the Leadership program on campus and serves as a TA for the College and Career Center. He hopes to study 3D animation at college, an interest he has had since he was 10 years old. “School has taught me that there is no such thing as being perfect so just be the best possible version of yourself,” Bostyn, the youngest of eight children, said. His ceramics teacher Bryan Cottriel said, “This month we have the privilege of recognizing a student who not only demonstrates academic excellence but also embodies the resilience and dedication that we value at Ortega.

In the world of ceramics, patience is not just a virtue, it’s a necessity. Bostyn has demonstrated exceptional patience and attention to detail, consistently producing work that showcases his technical skills. His ability to translate ideas into tangible, beautiful creations speaks volumes about Bostyn’s talents and growth he has achieved during his time in my class.”

Temescal Canyon High School

Xion Gordon was introduced by Temescal Canyon Principal Joshua Hill who said, “She’s an artist, she dances, she acts, and she’s a member of drama club and Key Club” and her ambition is to become an author and a librarian after earning her bachelor’s degree in sociology. Xion said, “When not immersed in my studies, you’ll find me engrossed in the pages of a good book or lost in the world of creative writing.” One of the

obstacles she had to overcome was moving from Georgia to California four years ago. She had to adjust to a new school, a new climate and learn to make friends in an unfamiliar place.

“However, through resilience and adaptability, I have navigated these hurdles and emerged strong,” Xion said. “The life lesson I’ve learned from this experience is the importance of doing your best and nothing less.” AP/IB English teacher Christina Lofquist said, “One of the things I can say with 100 percent certainty is that when Xion entered my classroom this year, she immediately shifted the energy of that room into this element of positivity and beauty.”

Matthew Yutuc was described by Principal Hill as a member of the Health and Medical Careers Academy, the varsity baseball team, Asian Student Union and Key Club. Matthew plans to study pre-med biochemistry and eventually attend medical school to become a cardio-thoracic surgeon. The outstanding senior said that growing up he was always indecisive about what he wanted to do but cited one good thing that has come from his excessive overthinking. “The one thing that I have learned is that it is very important to find the things in life you are most passionate and enthusiastic about and stick with them,” Matthew said. His U.S. History teacher and baseball coach Neal Post said, “In the baseball program we always talk about trying to lift while we climb. I have had the privilege of watching this young man grow up and his dedication is second to none.” To Matthew, he said. “You make me want to be a better educator, a better coach and a better person and I thank you dearly for that.”

For more information on the program, please contact Kim Joseph Cousins at 951-245-8848 or Donna Romo at Donnajromo@ aol.com

Jeffery Harmon to give presentation about Murrieta founder Juan Murrieta

Jeffery

TEMECULA – Anyone who wants to know more about Juan Murrieta, the founder of the present town of Murrieta, is invited to attend Jeffery Harmon’s presentation on the subject at the Little Temecula History Center, the red barn next to Kohls in south Temecula Monday, March 25, at 6 p.m.

The presentation will be livestreamed on the society’s Facebook page and later archived on the Temecula Valley Historical Society’s YouTube Channel.

For any questions regarding this presentation, contact Rebecca Farnbach at info@temeculavalleyhistoricalsociety.org Submitted by Temecula Valley Historical Society.

At this free presentation, Harmon will give a comprehensive picture of Juan Murrieta’s life before, during and after his life in Temecula. Harmon is a graduate of Azusa Pacific University, certificated substitute teacher for the Murrieta Valley Unified School District and president of the Murrieta Valley Historical Society, which he helped to found in 2016. He is the editor of the Murrieta Valley Historical Society monthly newsletter and a founding member of the Historic Route 395 Association. He wrote “Tales from Southwest Riverside County,” co-wrote “Images of America: Old Town Temecula” and was a past contributing author to the High Country Magazine.

Recipients of the Lake Elsinore Valley Chamber of Commerce Student of the Month award for March are, standing from left, Sergio Estrada, Matthew Yutuc, Lorenzo Perez, Aidan Phommasa and Bostyn Copley; and seated from left, Xion Gordon, Natalie Lares Alonso and Arianna Murray. Valley News/John P. Hess photo

Harmon is president of the Murrieta Valley Historical Society.

Local students devote their time to civic engagement

Diane A. Rhodes

Special to Valley News

Crystal Rubnerth teaches AP Government & Politics and Economics at Temecula Valley High School. She also coordinates the California Seal of Civic Engagement Seal program at her school for the third year and has been on the Temecula Valley Unified School District’s planning board from the start of the program in September 2020.

“This is a state seal issued by the California Department of Education,” Rubnerth said. “Students can earn it by completing various civic engagement projects which are actions that have long-term impact and improvement on our communities. So, this goes beyond community service and is intended for students to leave a legacy, if you will, on their community with their projects.”

She said last year, about six students earned it and this year about 40 project proposals were approved. Each group works with a staff advisor to help navigate the process needed to accomplish their goals.

“I’m working with a group who is trying to bring broader awareness of various cancers to TVHS students by implementing annual and monthly cancer awareness and fundraising events,” Rubnerth said. “My other group is working to obtain recycling and composting bins and procedures to our campus so that cans, bottles and food waste can be more sustainably processed.”

She is aware of other students and their projects that cover a broad range of community involvement. She said last year, students arranged the Bear Necessities clothing pantry to provide clothes and school supplies including formal dresses to TVHS students who may not be able to afford those items. The lead student arranged donations, a space and a group to continue it after she graduated.

“The emphasis is longevity,” Rubnerth said. “They must work towards a project that will outlast their involvement and continue after they graduate or move on, thus leaving a long-term impact on the community.”

Madeleine Sleeper’s civic engagement project, which doubled as her Girl Scout Gold Award project, is Orchestra Summer Peer Tutoring. During summer break, students in fifth through eighth grade from Title I schools in the Temecula Valley region meet at Miyamoto Music Studio in Old Town Temecula for one-on-one peer tutoring music lessons. The two-hour weekly lessons take place for about eight weeks. High school musicians from the region tutor the younger student musicians and earn community service hours and leadership opportunities.

“This project was implemented and executed by me, but it would not have been possible without Ms. Susan Miyamoto and her studio, Mrs. Leanne Lugo, the TVHS Orches tra Director who advised me, and certainly the high school students who put their time and effort into assisting the young student musicians,” said Sleeper, 18.

She said music has always been an integral part of her life the past eight years as she studied the violin and played in the TVHS Chamber Orchestra and the Temecula Valley Youth Symphony.

“I knew I wanted my Girl Scout Gold Award and civic engagement project to be based around my passion for music,” Sleeper said. W hen Lugo explained to her that student musicians from Title I schools are economically disadvantaged and often cannot afford private music lessons during the summer, leading them to discontinue their enrollment in their respective school orchestras the following fall semester, Sleeper wanted to address this root cause through a summer peer tutoring program that would bridge the gap between the spring and fall semesters.

“I did a lot of community outreach and met with Ms. Miyamoto and Mrs. Lugo to discuss how I would obtain an area for practice and instruments for students to use,” the senior explained. “Ms. Miyamoto has allowed me to use her studio for the past two summers and Ms. Lugo directed me to the Temecula Valley Conservatory of the Arts which rented out instruments for students to use. I met quite often with Mrs. Lugo to design announcements for students

and parents to advertise the program and secure all of the resources I would need.”

Sleeper earned her Girl Scout Gold Award in September of 2022 and is looking forward to receiving the state seal. “Having the State Seal of Civic Engagement on my diploma is very important to me because I have been in Girl Scouts the last 10 years and community service and engagement has always been an integral part of my life,” she said. “Having the state seal on my high school diploma reminds me of my duty and commitment to serve my community and I will continue to uphold these values as I study Public Policy and Law in college.”

The Title I school orchestra programs in the Temecula Valley have strongly benefited from this program as every single student musician who participated in the Orchestra Summer Peer Tutoring program, which totaled more than 100, continued their enrollment in their respective school orchestras in the fall semester.

“I am proud to say that the Temecula orchestral community is flourishing, and many young students have had the opportunity to take lessons and pursue any string instrument of their choice,” Sleeper said.

Ryan Ruse, 18, is promoting engineering to middle school students

for his civic engagement project. Working with three friends who are helping, the group shares with younger students the benefits and opportunities of taking CTE engineering at TVHS. He discovered the need for this after talking to his engineering teacher, Candy Drabek “She mentioned that her class was not recognized as much as some of the other classes we have at our school, and I can remember a year back, that I didn’t even know that TVHS had an engineering class until the end of my sophomore year,” Ruse said. “I wanted to find a way to help inform students what Engineering is at TVHS so they did not go into high school without knowing of the possibilities and the benefits that CTE engineering offers to students.”

He said it is important for him to earn the state seal because it will show that he and his partners do not give up easily, work hard to achieve their goals and keep pushing until they are satisfied.

“When my group and I presented to the middle schoolers, the teachers thanked us for our effort to try and give opportunities for the children that don’t know about engineering at TVHS,” Ruse said.

Avery Steele, a recent Student of the Month recipient from Temecula Valley High School, has two civic

engagement projects. One is the Temecula-Murrieta Scholarship Opportunity, whose goal is to help students attend college with diminished debt so higher education is more affordable and accessible, which she is working on alone. For her efforts on this project, she was recognized by the Murrieta Chamber of Commerce’s “20 under 20 award.”

“I first discovered the problem with college debt when my neighbor, who is practically family, went off to college and became severely in debt,” Steele, 17, explained. “I saw how the pressure of paying off the debt was crushing and causing constant anxiety. I never wanted a person to feel this pressure again. I love doing charity work around my community, I find comfort in comforting.” This quality is what steered her to often volunteer at local animal shelters, leading to her second project. Paws for a Cause is a program to establish a booth at a Temecula flea market to promote local shelter animals in hopes of increasing adoption rates and inspiring future animal lovers. Her best friend is assisting her with this project.

“Every time I saw the look on a dog’s face who had yet to be adopted as they entered the crate, it made my heart melt,” she said.

“My best friend also volunteered at local animal shelters, and we looked into adoption rates and euthanasia rates. We found that the euthanization rates were startlingly high. In a day and age where we can mix any breed, essentially ordering puppies, rescues have become neglected. My partner and I decided to try and change this.”

Students who successfully complete their projects after spring break earn a stole with the district symbol and the Civic Engagement seal as well as a seal affixed to their diploma. The process is intense and includes many benchmarks to meet. Project proposals are made to Civic Engagement staff in the fall. Students work on the project(s) throughout the year with at least monthly meetings with staff advisors. They must complete the state’s content competency requirements, letters of recommendation requirements, a final project presentation to the staff team and a written Project Reflection.

Rubnerth said, “With the final project presentation and reflection, we ask them to talk about their actions that contributed to impacting t heir community long-term. We like to see their journey, their successes, and their challenges. We are also looking to see they were consistently working on the project throughout the year, making progress, seeking help/guidance when needed, etc.”

She said students learn firsthand about the roadblocks of bureaucracy and are often surprised to encounter the slow wheels of trying to get things done such as paperwork, following laws/guidelines/ procedures, interacting with many different people or departments who oversee something, learning different approvals processes, and more.

It really is a big learning process; we have many who don’t complete it, often because their schedules don’t allow it or they realize they’ve taken on more they can manage with school, sports, clubs, etc.,” Rubnerth said. “It is such a valuable life lesson for them and having a designated adult staff advisor helps them navigate the hurdles. The process of learning how to navigate bureaucracy and still get things done combined with seeing their pride in leaving a legacy behind them are my two favorite things about this program.”

Steele said it is not the seal itself that has propelled her to work on her projects, the first one since her freshman year of high school.

“While it is nice to be recognized for my accomplishments, the actual projects themselves are more meaningful to me,” s he said. “I think that the work we’re doing to try and positively impact our local community means so much and the real reward is being able to see the faces of the people or animals you’ve helped. I plan to continue community service throughout the entirety of my life. It’s like William Osler said, ‘we are here to add what we can to life, not to get what we can from life’ and this is my chance to add to other people’s lives and make them better.”

For more information, www.cde. ca.gov/pd/ca/hs/hssstateseal.asp.

Temecula Valley High School senior Madeleine Sleeper helps other musicians hone their talents through her civic engagement project. Valley News/Courtesy photos

Avery Steele and her dog on their way to a volunteering opportunity. The high school senior is involved in two civic engagement projects for her community.

An advertisement created by Ryan Ruse and his friends to garner interest from incoming freshmen for Engineering classes at Temecula Valley High School.

To submit an upcoming community event, email it to valleyeditor@ reedermedia.com, put “attention events” in the subject line.

CHILDREN’S EVENTS

March 23 – 9-11 a.m. Murrieta’s Spring Extravaganza and Recreation Expo at Town Square Park, in Murrieta 10,000 eggs to pick up for children ages 10 and under. There will be info on city classes and other offerings. Meet the teachers.

March 23 – 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Lake Elsinore children’s egg hunt begins at Lake Elsinore City Park., 243 S. Main St. See dreamcenterle.org/ easter-festival.

March 23 – 8 a.m. Wildomar’s Community Eggstravaganza will take place at Marna O’Brien Park, 20505 Palomar St. followed by a teen egg hunt that evening with flashlights.

March 23 – 9 a.m. to noon Menifee Spring Fest at Underwood Park, 28251 Rouse Road, Menifee. Family friendly event with egg hunts, food vendors, bounce houses.

March 25 – Temecula Valley Unified School District’s Spring Break. Begin to register your child for fun and exciting camps from basketball, art, tennis, cooking, eggciting tiny tots class, teen art and anime and others. Please register soon at TemeculaCA.gov/Classes or contact Temecula’s Community Services Department at 951-6946480 for further information. Space is limited.

March 30 – 8:30-10:30 a.m. Menifee Easter Egg Hunt at Wheatfield Park, 30627 Menifee Road, Menifee.

March 30 – 9 a.m. Easter Egg Hunt at Rancho Bella Vista Park, 31757 Browning St., French Valley, for children 12 and under. ValleyWide Recreation and Park District event.

March 30 – 10:30 a.m. Easter egg hunts begin at Diamond Valley Lake Community Park, 1801 Angler Ave., Hemet. Presented by Valley-Wide Recreation and Park District. Children need to bring their own baskets.

April 2-4 – 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Menifee Spring Break Camp for children 8-13 two sessions at the Valley-Wide Recreation’s Menifee

Gym. 28545 La Piedra Road, Menifee. Call 951-672-6744 for information.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

March 21 – 5-9 p.m. Murrieta

Downtown Market Nights by Murrieta Downtown Merchants and Property Owners Assn. between Juniper and Washington streets. Many local vendors and businesses participate every first and third Thursday of each month. Memberships and Murrieta vendors welcome $50 to $25. More info, contact DowntownMurrieta@gmail.com.

Location 24810 Washington Ave.

Murrieta.

March 21 – 6-7:30 p.m. The Science of a Solar Eclipse presented by the Temecula Valley Astronomers presentation at the Ronald H. Roberts Temecula Public Library, 30600 Pauba Road, Temecula. Astronomers will explain the coming solar eclipse event. This program is open to all ages. No registration is required, but space is limited.

March 23 – 8 a.m. 5K Family Fun Run presented by the Boys and Girls Club of Inland Valley beginning at the March Field Air Museum, 22550 Van Buren Blvd., Riverside.

March 23 – 9:30 a.m. Official Grand Opening of the Margarita Recreation Center (MRC) at 29119 Margarita Road. A new intergenerational facility with demonstrations, children’s activities, giveaways, refreshments and more and groundbreaking.

March 25 – 6 p.m.Jeffery Harmon will present a talk on Juan Murrieta’s Life at the Little Temecula History Center at the Red Barn next to Kohls in south Temecula. A no cost presentation, Harmon will give a comprehensive picture of Juan Murrieta’s life before, during, and after his life in Temecula. Harmon is president of the Murrieta Valley Historical Society. The presentation will also be shown by live stream on the society’s Facebook page and YouTube Channel. For more info, email info@temeculavalleyhistoricalsociety.org

March 28 – 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. Art Show at the Hemet Public Library. Join us to celebrate the work of EXCEED Program participants

from the “Art in the Park” sessions. This is a free public event and all are welcome. Hemet Public Library is located at 300 E. Latham St. in Hemet.

March 28 – 10 a.m. Welcome

Home Vietnam Veterans reception with a formal ceremony at 10:30 a.m. at Paloma Valley High School, 31375 Bradley Road, Menifee.

March 31 – 6:30 a.m. Easter

Sunrise Service at the Ramona Bowl in Hemet presented by the Kiwanis Club of Hemet and Bible Fellowship Church. Gates will open at the Bowl at 5:30 a.m. Easter morning on Ramona Bowl Road.

April 5 – 5-9 p.m. Foodie Fridays, at Mt. San Jacinto College’s Menifee Campus, 28237 La Piedra Road. The event is presented by Made Local, in “flavorship” with the City of Menifee and Mt. San Jacinto College. It is an incubator for small businesses to gauge the community’s interest in their unique offerings. Foodie Fridays often hosts over 60 food vendors.

April 13 – 5-8 p.m. Loaded Baked Potato Fundraiser sponsored by the Hemet Lions Club. Includes a baked potato, beverage & assorted toppings. $10 per person, $6 for kids 12 and under. Benefits the San Jacinto Valley. Event takes place at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 26410 Columbia St., Hemet. For more info, call 530-913-4351.

May 18 – 10 a.m.- 3 p.m. In commemoration of World Day for Cultural Awareness, Temecula will host the third annual Temecula CultureFest in Town Square Park, 41902 Main Street, Temecula. Free event showcasing live music, dancing, special performances, and fun activities for the entire family.

ONGOING – Saturdays, 8 a.m. to noon. Sun City Farmers Market (every Saturday) at the Sun City Civic Association at 26850 Sun City Blvd., Sun City. Local vendors and crafts.

ONGOING – Riverside Transportation Commission is offering Park and Ride lots to connect with carpools, vanpools and transit systems in Beaumont at 600 E. Sixth Street; in San Jacinto at 501 S. San Jacinto Avenue and in Temecula at Grace Presbyterian Church, 31143 Nicolas Road, open from 5 a.m. to

10 p.m. but not on weekends.

ONGOING – Line dancing classes are held Wednesdays from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at Lake Elsinore/ Wildomar Elks Lodge, 33700 Mission Trail, in Wildomar across from the Animal Friends of the Valleys. Classes have a DJ with learning levels beginning to intermediate. Have fun and exercise at the same time at $5 per lesson. Contact Joyce Hohenadl at 951-674-2159

ONGOING – Sun City Civic Association Monthly Square Dance sessions are held Sundays from 1:30-5 p.m. at 26850 Sun City Boulevard.

ONGOING – If you know a homebound older adult, resources in Menifee are available, including grab-and-go, cooked and frozen food for pickup. Courtesy pantry items and meals delivered with no contact. Three days of emergency food can be delivered immediately or restaurant meal delivery for those who don’t qualify for food assistance programs. Call the California Department on Aging at 800-5102020 for help.

ONGOING – The Riverside County COVID-19 Business Assistance Grant Program is accepting online applications for business grants up to $10,000 at www.rivcobizhelp.org that can be used for employee retention, working capital, personal protective equipment purchases, rent or mortgage payments and paying vendor notices. Eligible businesses, including nonprofits, must be in Riverside County, with a minimum of one but less than 50 employees and operating for at least one year since March 1. For more information, call Riverside County Office of Economic Development at 951-955-0493.

ONGOING – 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

The Temecula Winchester Swap Meet continues, 33280 Newport Road in Winchester. Saturdays and Sundays only. The small local swap meet is only 50 cents for entry, and anyone under age 10 is free admission. No dogs allowed.

ONGOING – 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Every Sunday, Murrieta Village Walk Farmers Market is at Village Walk Place in Murrieta. The Sunday morning farmers market at Village Walk Plaza is a place to buy fruits and veggies, gourmet food and crafts. Come to the center in the northwest corner of Kalmia/ Cal Oaks at the Interstate 215 exit in Murrieta.

ONGOING – Temecula’s Farmers Markets are offered in Old Town Temecula Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to noon, 4100 Main Street in Temecula; at Promenade Temecula, 40640 Winchester Road, outside JCPenney every Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and at Vail Headquarters, 32115 Temecula Parkway, every Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

In compliance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Riverside County Public Health orders, the farmers markets will be restricted to agriculture products only. Follow the Old Town Temecula Farmers Market on Facebook to stay updated. No pets allowed.

WORKSHOPS, MEETINGS,

NOTICES

March 22 – City of Menifee now hiring lifeguards, water safety instructors and pool managers. Visit cityofmenifee.us/jobsor aquatics@ cityofmenifee.us

March 29 – Monthly Temecula Arts Night on the last Friday of each month at The Lot at the Merc, 42051 Main St., Old Town Temecula. Visitors can view a variety of artwork for sale from artists exhibiting in multiple mediums and enjoy live music at The Lot. A free reception is held in The Merc each month for the featured artist where guests can enjoy refreshments while admiring the art gallery. Event is free.

April 16 – 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Southwest Riverside County Quick Pitch Competition presented by Menifee, Temecula, Riverside, Lake Elsinore and Wildomar partnering with Riverside County Innovation Month at the Storm Stadium-Diamond Taproom, 500 Diamond Drive, Lake Elsinore. $1,000 grand prize. Email SAgajanian@MurrietaCA.gov

April

History Research Assistance Program. Interested in learning more about your family roots? Temecula Valley Genealogical Society offers free research assistance through this volunteer program. Appointments are available in person or via Zoom. Contact the TVGS Family Research Coordinator at tvgs.research.assist@gmail.com for more information.

ONGOING – Temecula’s Path of Honor at the Temecula Duck Pond, 28250 Ynez Road. A program to give a place to remember and honor Veterans from the US Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard, and the WWII Merchant Marines who served our country with a permanent paver. Pavers cost $185. Orders may be placed year-round and are consolidated, engraved, and placed on the path annually each November. For more information visit TemeculaCA.gov/ Veterans or contact the Temecula Community Services Department at 951-694-6480.

ONGOING – Want to help deployed American troops remotely? Help shop for the most needed items without leaving home as an easy way to help support deployed men and women by purchasing items remotely and having them delivered to MilVet at designated drop-off locations for packing. All items on the list are special requests from deployed military men and women. MilVet is a nonprofit organization that holds monthly packaging events at different community locations in the area. For drop-off locations and packaging locations, visit www.milvet.org/ military-care-packages.

ONGOING – Sons of Norway/ Scandinavia meets at noon the first Saturday of every month, September to June, at the Heritage Mobile Park Clubhouse, 31130 S. General Kearny Road, in Temecula.

ONGOING – Menifee Community Services offers online driver’s education courses for a $21.95 fee. The course includes animated driving scenarios, instructional videos, sample tests, licensed instructor available to answer questions, DMV-approved certificate of completion with all lectures and exams completed from home. Designed for students and does not include behind-the-wheel instruction or a California driver’s permit. Contact 951-723-3880 or visit the city of Menifee to register at www.cityof menifee.us.

ONGOING – 10-11:30 a.m.

Michelle’s Place Cancer Resource Center and The Elizabeth Hospice host a virtual support meeting for caregivers every second and fourth week of the month via Zoom. Get helpful tips and learn from others who are also dealing with similar challenges. For more information and to register, contact The Elizabeth Hospice Grief Support Services at 833-349-2054.

ONGOING – Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous, a free 12step recovery program for anyone suffering from food obsession, overeating, undereating or bulimia, has meetings throughout the U.S. and the world. Contact 781932-6300, or for local meetings, call 925-321-0170 or visit www. foodaddicts.org.

ONGOING – The Murrieta Garden Club meets each month at the Murrieta Community Center, 41810 Juniper St. Anyone who likes to garden or is interested in plants is welcome. Membership is $10 per year. Find more information about the monthly event or project on Facebook.

ONGOING – Temecula Valley Rose Society meets each month. For more information and new meeting dates and places, visit www.temeculavalleyrosesociety. org

ONGOING – Menifee Toastmasters meets every Thursday at noon for one hour at a designated place to have fun, enhance speaking capabilities, gain self-confidence and improve social skills. For new dates, call 760-807-1323 or visit www.MenifeeToastmasters.org for more information.

ONGOING – Homeless veterans can receive free help by dialing 877-424-3838 for 24/7 access to the VA’s services for homeless, at-risk veterans. Chat is confidential for veterans and friends. Visit www. va.gov/homeless.

Vagabond Theatre Group of Menifee launches with its first production

Sarah Kristen Gibbon had a dream of opening her own theater company for years, but it wasn’t until 2021 that she started founding her Menifee nonprofit, Vagabond Theatre Group.

“Over two years of paperwork and dialing in all the 501(c)3 particulars has got us to where we have hit the ground running in 2024,” Gibbon said. “We are so happy to bring this art form to the community.”

March Field Air Museum is

the Title Sponsor for the group’s inaugural play, “Censored on Final Approach,” written by Phylis Ravel and directed by Eric Ruiter The cast features Jeff Gadigan, Adam McMorris, Daisy Posadas, Gia Rueda, Jon Schaller, Stephanie Smarker, Dellamaria Underwood and Kellie Ward. Gibbon said the group’s choice for its official launch came about more than a year ago when she and board member Monica Reichl were discussing the type of plays they wanted to produce. “I have a soft spot for telling stories for women, about women,

by women, and Monica had recommended the script,” Gibbon said. “I bought it and gobbled it up in an hour. It sings to my soul. The story is about some amazingly strong, daring and capable women in our own American history, and as a daughter whose mother was in a career where women weren’t always warmly welcomed, this story just spoke to me. It’s a story I think deserves to be told, a story that needs to be heard.”

After the board voted on the choice, Gibbon said she was pleased to find out that it also contains a local connection. The March Field Air Museum, near Riverside National Cemetery, has a display dedicated to the Women’s Airforce Service Pilots that was formed in World War II.

“After some research by one of my board members, Larry Sichter, we learned that Gen. Hap Arnold who was a major contributor to the March Field base was also the man who, more or less, started the WASPs along with Jacqueline Cochran,” she said. “How amazing to choose a show that happens to have significant cultural and historical relevance right in our own backyard?”

Gibbon said the humble beginnings of Vagabond Theatre Group started in 2020 when the theater industry, like many others, was shut down because of the pandemic.

“We had to get creative,” she said. “Us theater folk are already creative, so we simply pushed forward and explored new mediums, particularly Zoom. I started a group on Facebook where a collective group of thespians got together online to read Shakespeare. We would use a virtual randomizer to cast the show, and we would spend three-plus hours together reading the works of the Bard.”

The name Vagabond Theatre Group resulted from those Zoom meeting beginnings as there was no actual home where they could meet.

“Since we still do not have a permanent home to call our own, I feel like it honors our roots and I am content with that,” Gibbon said.

The nonprofit’s mission and goals are to offer everyone an opportunity to be involved in theater, from young to old.

“We have a passion for connecting our community,” she said. “We have dreams to bring performing arts to senior facilities and include young people to connect with communities they may not normally connect with. We want our shows to be a safe place for everyone. While we have no intention of being a children’s theater company, as there are many amazing companies that exist in the area already, we do hope to offer outreach programs and classes to elementary ages and beyond.”

She said that beyond the nonprofit’s mission statement, they are looking for Vagabond Theatre Group to become a respected black box theater company. A black box theater is a performance space, which consists of a square room with black walls and a flat floor. It used to create a variety of configurations of stage and audience interaction with minimal sets.

“Currently, most of the companies within our neighboring cities focus solely on musicals, classical, bedroom-farce or children’s theat er, and we are interested in bringing more contemporary theater to the area using a venue in a more intimate way,” Gibbon said. “We also would really like to expand on our senior outreach

see VAGABOND, page B-8

Diane A. Rhodes

Special to Valley News

Sarah Kristen Gibbon presents Vagabond Theatre Group, a newly formed theater group in Menifee. Valley News/Shawna Sarnowski photos

Sarah Kristen Gibbon performs as Emilia in a Shakespeare in the Vines 2019 production of “Othello” in Temecula.

Allergy season projected to be more intense due to recent rains resulting in heavier vegetation and anticipated pollen increase

CALIFORNIA – As California experienced prolonged heavy rains this winter, health officials are projecting a more intense allergy season due to an anticipated explosion of vegetation and an increase in airborne pollen that promise to result in a more intense allergy season this year.

As many people welcomed spring Tuesday, March 19, with feelings of renewal, new beginnings, budding leaves and blooming flowers, they will be less intent in welcoming seasonal allergies, which are likely to be more difficult and bothersome.

“It’s fairly certain that things are likely to get worse before they get better, mainly due to the weather conditions we’ve experienced that will result in more pollen in the air,” Dr. Lien Lai, an allergy, asthma and immunology physician with Kaiser Permanente Riverside, said.

According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, more than 50 million Americans experience various types of allergies each year. Additionally, allergies are the sixth leading cause of chronic illness in the U.S.

With the arrival of spring, Lai noted allergies are likely to increase as the weather gets warmer and drier. That’s because trees, grasses and weeds will release tiny grains into the air to fertilize other plants, and as they breathe them in, those who have allergies are likely to suffer, she explained.

If you suffer from outdoor seasonal allergies, Lai recommended taking certain actions to decrease symptoms.

Avoid spending too much time outdoors when pollen counts are high. Check local counts online.

Close windows and stay indoors during pollen season as much as

possible, especially early morning and late afternoon.

Keep car windows closed when driving.

After spending time outdoors, change your clothes. Bathe before going to bed to wash pollen away.

Pollen is normally worse in the morning or early afternoon and on windy days, so if you must be outside, calm evenings may be best.

Limit outdoor activities on hot and windy days.

Consider buying a HEPA air filter to clean the indoor air of any airborne allergy triggers in your home, including pollen, airborne dust and airborne animal dander.

Try to keep shoes out of the bedroom, ideally outside of home.

Don’t hang clothing outdoors to dry; pollen may cling to towels and sheets.

If you struggle with eye symptoms due to seasonal allergic reactions, Lai recommended not rubbing your eyes, as rubbing can cause mechanical mast cell degranulation; using cool compresses as they can help reduce eyelid edema; using refrigerated tears that can help to dilute and remove allergen and wearing glasses or sunglasses when outdoors to minimize the amount of pollen getting into your eyes.

Although there’s no cure for seasonal allergies, Lai said there are several medications, including antihistamines and nasal steroids, which can provide relief and help you breathe a little easier. Over the counter antihistamines that can be effective include loratadine, fexofenadine or cetirizine.

She advised those with allergies to take their 24-hour allergy medication before going to bed to maximize the effect when they need it the most.

“That’s because allergy symp-

This year’s seasonal allergy season is expected to be more difficult due to recent rains resulting in more vegetation and pollen.

Valley News/Courtesy photo toms – such as a runny nose, weepy eyes and sneezing – typically peak in the morning hours,” she said.

If you have a history of moderate or more severe allergy symptoms, Lai recommended starting

a steroid nasal spray and continuing it through the allergy season. These medicines are available over the counter without a need for a prescription and include fluticasone or triamcinolone. Kaiser Permanente offers infor-

mation on how to better handle allergy season at https://healthy. kaiserpermanente.org/healthwellness/health-encyclopedia/ he.allergies.center1001.

Submitted by Kaiser Permanente Southern California Region.

Perris Behavioral Health Clinic launches new ecotherapy program with the Gardens of Hope

RIVERSIDE COUNTY – Under the Riverside University Health System, the Perris Behavioral Health Clinic has launched a new ecotherapy program that includes nature as part of the behavioral health therapy sessions for individuals who are receiving services at the clinic.

The new program utilizes the Gardens of Hope to provide an optimum environment for group therapy sessions. The Gardens of Hope, 26521 Hammack Avenue, in Perris is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established in January 2023 for the purpose of providing therapeutic gardening programs and workshops that support re-

covery for individuals with mental health and substance abuse issues.

Joe Grumbine, CEO of the Gardens of Hope, said that the 2.5 acres of botanical gardens will be used for the Perris Behavioral Clinic Ecotherapy Program and that he regards the ecotherapy program as the ultimate use of the resources that the gardens provide for the benefit individuals with mental health and substance abuse issues.

Thaddeus Wicki, a licensed marriage and family therapist at the Perris Behavioral Health Clinic, said that the ecotherapy program benefits individuals with mental health issues by using all

the senses to promote wellness, relaxation and sense of gratitude. Exploring nature and outdoors allows clients to decrease anxiety, lift sadness and improve motivation. Some of the activities consist of gratitude walks, listening to birds and different sounds, nature journaling, meditation, planting and wilderness walks. This new program offers an exciting new therapeutic resource for those who are receiving services at Perris Behavioral Health Clinic.”

Submitted by Riverside University Health System and Gardens of Hope.

Kaiser Permanente seeks to address health

disparities: The impact of plant-based diets on African American communities

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA –Kaiser Permanente emphasized the significance of nurturing one’s heart through lifestyle adjustments that pave the way for enhanced well-being. The health care provider said it is crucial, given that approximately half of all Americans exhibit at least one of the primary risk factors for heart disease: high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol levels or smoking.

“Focusing on what you’re eating for your health is a great start,” Dr. Columbus Batiste, who is an interventional cardiologist and lifestyle advocate with Kaiser Permanente Southern California, said. “Increasing fiber-rich plant food will have great benefits to your health. A plant-based diet is nutritious and can be tasty as a traditional American diet that includes meat. For many of my patients, it’s been a lifesaver.”

Health impacts to African American communities

In the United States, African American communities face a disproportionate burden of health inequalities compared to their white counterparts.

These disparities manifest across various health conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, heart disease and specific cancers. Dietary habits play a pivotal role in shaping health outcomes. Growing evidence suggests that adopting plant-based diets can help alleviate some of these disparities and enhance overall health outcomes within African American communities.

Batiste underscores the consistent correlation between nutrition

Valley News/Pexels.com photo

and disease outcomes. Diets lacking in essential nutrients, characterized by excessive sodium intake and inadequate consumption of fruits, vegetables and whole grains, contribute to a spectrum of health issues. According to Lancet, inadequate diets result in more global fatalities than tobacco smoking, emphasizing the urgent need for dietary interventions to enhance public health.

Dietary change and health outcomes

Batiste highlights research findings regarding the influence of dietary adjustments on health outcomes among African American populations. Initiatives such as the whole-food plant-based Jumpstart program have improved metabolic health indicators among African American participants, leading to

weight loss, lowered blood pressure and improved cholesterol levels, according to Kaiser Permanente. Additionally, large-scale studies like the Million Veterans Study affirm the universal benefits of plant-based diets in reducing heart disease risk across various racial and ethnic groups, including African Americans.

Research indicates that adherence to a healthy plant-based diet correlates with reduced risks of mortality, cancer and heart disease.

“Individuals who closely adhere to this dietary regimen demonstrate a 16% lower mortality risk compared to those with less adherence,” Batiste said. “Furthermore, they exhibit reduced susceptibility to heart attacks and strokes.”

Plant-based diets offer a promising avenue for enhancing health outcomes and alleviating the burden of chronic diseases that disproportionately affect African Americans. According to surveys, an increasing proportion of Black Americans are embracing vegan or vegetarian diets, with around 8% identifying with these lifestyles, in contrast to only 3% of the broader population. By embracing culturally rooted dietary practices and opting for healthier food choices, African American communities can make significant strides toward achieving health equity and overall well-being.

For more information on the benefits of a whole food, plantbased diet, visit http://kp.org.

Submitted by Kaiser Permanente, Southern California Region.

Menifee Valley Chamber of Commerce celebrates 45th annual Business Awards ‘Under the Sea’ Gala

MENIFEE –The 45th Menifee Valley Chamber of Commerce Business Awards Gala celebrates the businesses, organizations and individuals who have gone above and beyond to improve the community. The festivities Saturday, April 27, at 6 p.m. will be held at the Fairfield Inn and Suites Ballroom in Menifee and this year’s theme, Under The Sea, will be the backdrop for the awards ceremony. Traditional categories over the years have included Small Business of the Year, Nonprofit Business of the Year, Large Business of the Year, Ambassador of the Year and Spirit Award presented by last year’s winners. Last year’s Spirit Award winner, Mayor Bill Zimmerman, will be presenting the award to this year ’s winner that was hand selected by the chamber’s Board of Directors. New categories have

TEMECULA – In commemoration of World Day for Cultural Awareness, Temecula will host the third annual Temecula CultureFest Saturday, May 18, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., in Town Square Park, 41902 Main Street. The free, communitywide, special event will also showcase live music, dancing, special performances and fun activities for the entire family Temecula’s Community Services Department is looking for diverse vendor booths – measured 10 foot

TEMECULA – Attention all startups; seize the opportunity to showcase your business idea before a panel of judges. In celebration of Riverside County Innovation Month, the cities of Temecula, Murrieta, Menifee, Lake Elsinore and Wildomar are partnering to host the Southwest Region’s Quick Pitch Competition. It will take place at the Lake Elsinore Storm StadiumDiamond Taproom, 500 Diamond Drive, in Lake Elsinore, Tuesday, April 16, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The Southwest Region Quick Pitch Competition offers emerging startup businesses a unique platform to present a concise, 5-minute pitch to a distinguished panel of judges. Participation in this competition provides an opportunity to showcase innovative ideas, foster-

been added to broaden the scope of the awards and include Emerging Business of the Year for businesses one year or younger, Legacy Business of the Year for those that have been in business 10 years or over and Culinary Business of the Year. The new awards will be presented by members of the Menifee Valley Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

The evening’s themed cuisine will be catered by Storm Stadium with dessert provided by Sweet Red Peach, one of Menifee’s newest bakeries. The show will be hosted by Tony Reverditto, event producer for the chamber’s board of directors, and the live auction will be conducted by First District Councilmember Bob Karwin. Newly elected Chair Jason White will open the show with a welcome speech and break into a song. Three other

by 10 foot or 10 foot by 20 foot –to sell international foods, cultural crafts or event related products, as well as booths promoting education and raising awareness. Vendors can be, but are not limited to, local restaurants or caterers, community nonprofit organizations, high school clubs, religious and faith-based organizations and/or local businesses. Vendors selling items will need to show proof of liability insurance, a Temecula business license and a California seller’s permit. Food,

accomplished local singers will perform throughout the evening, as well as Yuko Inoue, a renowned marimba player from Japan. Those in attendance will have the opportunity to “Unlock the Buried Treasure” in which they will buy a skeleton key with the potential to win $2,000 worth of wine. There will be a silent auction, and during the live auction, guests will have the opportunity to bid on experiences such as a “Ride Along with t he Police Chief” and a “Chefs Table of Four provided by Savage Chef and prepared exclusively by Chef Dylan Sorro and Chef Mario Amari.”

Sponsorship opportunities are available: $1,000 for Swashbuckler includes two tickets, $2,500 for Navigator includes five tickets, $5,000 for Voyager includes one table of 10 and $10,000 for Treasure

Chest includes two tables of 10. All sponsorships include program space and branding throughout

The Menifee Valley Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to supporting and promoting local business enterprise, encouraging communication and cooperation between businesses and residents within the area, and initiating programs for the development and economic growth

This year’s nominees are:

ing greater recognition and potential rewards. Furthermore, it serves as an occasion for entrepreneurs to connect with like-minded individuals, expanding their network and contributing to the forefront of innovation. The first-place winner of the competition will be awarded a $1,000 grand prize, courtesy of DIY Divorce/Family Law Mediator Kristen Harrison and Barrett Business Services Inc. The victorious startup will also advance to the Riverside County Innovation Month Grand Finale scheduled for Tuesday, April 30, where a larger grand prize awaits. This grand finale presents a unique prospect for participants to present their projects to a broader audience, including industry experts, potential collabo-

product and promotional booth fees are $25 each, and fees are waived for school clubs. Vendor applications are available online at http://TemeculaCA.gov/FestVendor. Space is limited. The deadline to submit applications is Friday, March 29.

For more information on the upcoming Temecula CultureFest and other upcoming TCSD signature events, visit http://TemeculaCA. gov/Events. Submitted by city of Temecula.

rators and investors.

This event is an opportunity for individuals to share their vision, connect with fellow innovators and position themselves at the forefront of innovation. The potential impact of their ideas on shaping the future cannot be understated, making this a prime moment to showcase their ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit.

To apply, download the Southwest Riverside County Region Fast Pitch Startup Application at https://www.menifeebusiness.com/ wp-content/uploads/2024/02/2024Innovation-Month-SWRCRegional- Application.docx and email your application to SAgajanian@murrietaCA.gov by Tuesday, April 9.

Submitted by Temecula Valley Entrepreneur’s Exchange and city of Temecula.

Ten must-have gardening tools

RIVERSIDE COUNTY

Though gardening outdoors may not be an option in winter months, one thing you can do is take stock of your tools. If any of the following essentials are missing from your shed, put them on your list.

Bypass pruning shears and long-handled loppers

Look for hand pruners that are ergonomically designed for comfort and can easily cut through

Valley News/Courtesy photo

branches that are 1 inch in diameter. If you have just one type of pruner, make it a bypass (rather than anvil) type. Bypass pruners cut through live growth without crushing it. For bigger jobs, longhandled loppers, particularly those with gears, will provide the power you need to cut through thicker branches.

Digging spade Look for a digging spade with

a relatively narrow blade. Sometimes referred to as a transplanting spade, this type of spade sinks easily into the heaviest soils, and is perfect for digging in tight spaces.

Digging fork A four-pronged digging fork is a garden workhorse. Use it to loosen or aerate soil, mix in amendments, harvest crops, turn compost, and more. You can spend a lot or a little on a garden fork. A good tool will have strong steel tines and a comfortable handle made of wood or another durable material. Test different handle lengths to find one that’s comfortable for you.

Soil knife

A good soil knife has a serrated edge; some may have a twine cutting notch as well. If the soil knife you choose does not come with a sheath, purchase this useful accessory. Use this multi-purpose tool for weeding, planting, cutting roots, dividing perennials, and more. It will last virtually forever!

Hand weeder

If you do a lot of weeding, a tool

designed specifically for the task is easier on your wrists than a trowel or soil knife. Look for a tool that you can wield with the weight of your arm, such as a CobraHead weeder or a hand hoe. The business end of a good weeder can be used to extract taproots, break up soil, create planting furrows, and more.

Hand pruning saw

There are many pruning saws out there—some fold, others come with a sheath. If sharpening a saw is a task you’d rather not tackle, look for a blade with impulsehardened teeth, which will stay sharper for longer.

Gloves: sturdy yet not clumsy

Many gardeners swear by nitrile gloves. Tough, yet thin and flexible, they protect your hands while allowing you to do all but the most delicate gardening tasks. Plus, they’re machine washable!

Sun hat A good garden hat is an essential part of your sun protection plan Choose one that is wide-brimmed

and washable, with chin straps. Not only will it protect the skin on your face, head, and neck from the sun’s harmful rays, it will also shade your eyes and reduce glare.

A lightweight hose

If you find yourself dragging heavy hoses around in mid-summer, do yourself a favor. Treat yourself to a less cumbersome model. A 5/8 inch x 50 ft flexible polymer hose can weigh as little as 8 pounds. A coiled hose can be a good option also, but be sure to spring for one with heavy-duty brass fittings.

5-gallon bucket (or 3)

This may seem obvious, but having a few 5-gallon buckets on hand in the garden is always a good idea. You’ll find multiple uses for them, from collecting weeds, to measuring rainfall amounts, to watering newly planted trees. You can even drill holes in the bottoms and plant tomatoes in them!

Reprinted with permission of the Home Garden Seed Association (HGSA)

Property tax deadline draws near for Riverside County property owners

RIVERSIDE – Riverside

County’s Treasurer-Tax Collector

Matthew Jennings is notifying property owners that all secured property tax bills were mailed on or before Nov. 1, 2023, in accordance with the Revenue and Taxation Code. Property owners are encouraged to pay the second installment by Wednesday, April 10, to avoid being assessed a 10% penalty in addition to an applicable administrative cost.

“Property owners were notified

Temecula’s Community Services Department announces spring break camps

TEMECULA ─ Spring break is just around the corner The Temecula Community Services Department has a variety of educational and recreational spring break camp offerings for children to enjoy.

Temecula Valley Unified School District’s Spring Break begins Monday, March 25. This year, register your child for one of these options: Basketball Camps, Bigfoot’s Amazing Art Camps, Complete Tennis Camp, Egg-Citing Tiny Tots Class, Enchanted Fairy-Tale Camp, Sports Saints Camps, Bigfoot’s Teen Art & Anime Camp, Breakfast & Brunch Cooking Camp, Field Hockey Camps, First Tee Golf Camp, Flag Football Camps, Jr. Pickleball Camp, Kids Cook Lunch Camp and/or Temecula Glitz Cheer Camps. Space is limited. Register soon at http://TemeculaCA.gov/Classes or contact Temecula’s Community Services Department at 951-6946480 for more information.

Submitted by Temecula Community Services Department.

VAGABOND from page B-5

programs which intend to bring our performing arts to senior communities and senior facilities. My own personal big, big dream is to have our very own space that is a black box theater with a coffee shop by day.”

The all-volunteer board of directors consists of theater members, business members, educators, retirees and Menifee residents, who all bring invaluable input, experience and talent to the nonprofit, she said. Gibbon said she gained their support through networking.

“I have had the greatest pleasure of being involved in multiple nonprofit theater groups in the area over the last 10-plus years. With that, I have met amazing people,” she said. “When I initially started this journey, I reached out to people, specifically to help set the foundation, and then when we were ready to expand, we put out applications and invited everyone to apply. Our board spent time

of the second installment during our annual mailing in October,” Jennings said. “I encourage those property owners to utilize the various options available, such as the secure online payment system at http://www.countytreasurer.org or using the toll-free automated payment line 877-748-2689 or calling 951-955-3900.”

Property tax bills were sent out to all property owners at the address on the tax roll. If the property is owned within the county, and

you did not receive a bill by Nov. 1, 2023, contact the Riverside County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s office immediately. Failure to receive a bill does not relieve the liability to pay taxes nor the addition of penalties attached by law. The first installment of the 20232024 fiscal year taxes was due and payable Nov. 1, 2023, and became delinquent if it was not paid by Dec. 11, 2023. The second installment of the 2023-2024 fiscal year taxes were due and payable Feb. 1, 2024, and will become delinquent if they are not paid by April 10, 2024. Payment for both installments could be made on or before the first installment is due; however, the second installment can only be paid separately once the first installment is paid. The Treasurer-Tax Collector’s offices are generally open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and closed on all weekends and legal holidays. The Treasurer-Tax

ENTERTAINMENT

Movie review: ‘Arthur the King’

Arthur the King. Valley

Bob Garver

Special to the Valley News

I’m not going to sugarcoat it: this was not a good week for new releases. The battle for the top spot at the domestic box office was a fierce one, with “Kung

reviewing applications and I held meetings with each person and then we voted. Our board, I am delighted to say, is both filled with people that I knew and didn’t know. It is also filled with passionate human beings that simply want to share stories and grow our community through the lenses of our chosen art.”

As a nonprofit, crowdfunding is the most common way that the group supports its productions and programs. Donations are always encouraged and accepted, Gibbon said. There are also sponsorships available, and they have utilized some for their first production, “Censored on Final Approach.” Vagabond Theatre Group will also be teaching classes with the Menifee Community Services Department and all the proceeds from those classes will go directly to both production and operating costs.

“We are also hoping to apply for grants as we gain traction and support,” Gibbon said.

Fu Panda 4” in its second weekend narrowly edging out “Dune: Part Two” in its third. But after those two holdovers, the box office fell off a cliff, with newcomer “Arthur the King” taking a weak third place with barely a quarter of either’s take. Granted, the relatively smallscale production is not one that has ambitions of conquering the box office. It’s okay with being a nice little crowd-pleaser, which would be fine if it were actually more pleasing.

Mark Wahlberg stars as Michael Light, the captain of a team of “adventure racers,” four-person teams that participate in multi-day races of over 500 miles across various treacherous terrains. He blew a big race three years ago, and he’s been stuck in a rut ever since. He stakes his family’s savings on one more shot at glory. His team-

Gibbon has lived in Menifee since 2017 and began her own theater journey at Murrieta Valley High School where she was involved in acting, backs tage, drama club, talent shows and the like. At California State University San Marcos, she found her way to theater every semester until she declared it as her major and graduated with her bachelor’s degree in visual and performing arts with an emphasis in theater. She also volunteered with Shakespeare in the Vines in Temecula.

“For a decade I worked as an actor, stage manager, board secretary and more for SITV while also working with Fine Arts Network and Temecula Valley Players, among others,” Gibbon said. “Most of my work experience is in stage management, but I have a broad range of experience in all of it. I have had the pleasure of directing and acting at Ramona Hillside Players in Hemet, Full Circle Players in Riverside, Upland’s Ophelia’s Jump for an online show,

mates are veteran navigator Chik (Ali Suliman), pretty-boy social media influencer Leo (Simu Liu), and rock-climbing prodigy Olivia (Nathalie Emmanuel). I’m not sure if it’s intentional or not, but Olivia gives one of the most awkward line deliveries I’ve ever heard. It’s very serious subject matter, and I felt bad laughing at it, but the timing is just crazy. A similar mistake was made by bad-movie classic “The Room,” but honestly, it’s even more egregious here.

The race is grueling and frustrating and includes a truly harrowing zipline sequence. As predictable as it was that the characters were going to get out of it, I couldn’t help but put myself in their place and wonder if I might die of fright even before the risky rescue. The movie gets this scene right, even if it’s more heart-pounding than heart-warming.

About halfway through the race, Michael notices that a stray dog has been following the team. He admires its perseverance, and since they can’t really stop it from following them at its own discretion, they adopt him as an unofficial fifth member. The dog treats Michael’s much-maligned meatballs like a meal fit for a king, so Michael calls him Arthur. The dog is good at sniffing out danger, and the

and I have also played King Lear for an online production company based in Texas.”

The production team for “Censored on Final Approach” is Stage M anager Alicia Panicucci, Producer/Executive Director Sarah Kristen Gibbon, Artistic Director Laurel Anderson Mueller, Technical Director Josh Somers, Dramaturg Lawrence Sichter and Diversit y, Equity and Inclusion Committee Chair Kevin Clark.

The play will be performed at the Menifee United Church of Christ Community Center, 27070 Sun City Blvd., in Menifee, Friday and Saturday, April 19-20, at 6:30 p.m. and Sunday, April 21, at 3 p.m. General admission is $20, student/military is $15 and seniors 55+ is $10. The United Church of Christ Community Center will be selling concessions before and after the show. Gibbon said this venue can be rented out to the public, and she is fortunate they were willing to work with Vagabond Theatre

Collector’s has three offices to serve residents. The downtown Riverside location is on the fourth floor of the County Administrative Center, 4080 Lemon Street, in Riverside. The Temecula office is located at 40935 County Center Drive, Suite C, in Temecula. The Palm Desert office is located at 38-686 El Cerrito Road, in Palm Desert. The Palm Desert and Temecula offices do not accept mail.

Submitted by Riverside County Treasurer-Tax Collector.

whole team owes him a life debt after about two minutes. But he’s also very sickly, and probably has only days – maybe hours – to live.

The rest of the movie is the dog-centric adventure we’ve been promised. Arthur brings a unique set of strengths and weaknesses to the team. They’re soon in first place, but hindrances from both man and beast mean that they may not hang onto it for long. Even after the race is over, there’s still a lengthy portion of the film devoted to the dog’s health. I wasn’t sure which way the movie was going to go until it put so much effort into misleading me that I knew it had to go the other way.

“Arthur the King” is your typical inspirational dog movie mixed with your typical inspirational sports movie, although the sport in question happens to be several sports at once. It’s hard to get truly mad at a movie like this, but I can’t say it delivered a lot of bang for my buck, and that clunky bit of dialogue, just… woof. I definitely recommend the two movies at the top of the box office over this one.

Grade: C-

“Arthur the King” is rated PG13 for some strong language. Its running time is 90 minutes.

Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@ nyu.edu.

Group and sponsor the show in their newly renovated facility that seats up to 80 people.

The show will have two acts and should fall under two hours including the intermission. Guests can park in the Provident Bank parking lot, 27010 Sun City Blvd, as well as the UCC parking lot.

Gibbon said while the play is suited for teens and older, she asked parents to use their judgment on what they think their younger children can handle. While there are some scenes with mature themes such as death, bullying, sexual innuendo, language, drinking, etc., there is also an entire “in-flight” sequence that her 10-year-old son is excited about, she said.

“He loves everything about the Air Force, and I am OK with him attending,” she said.

For more information, visit http://www.vagabondmenifee. org or email vagabondmenifee@ gmail.com

News/Courtesy photo

Temecula’s 16th annual Special Games: A celebration of inclusivity and sporting spirit

JP Raineri Sports Editor

Temecula’s commitment to fostering an inclusive community was brightly showcased during the much-anticipated 16th annual Special Games at Great Oak High School’s football field. The spirit of unity and athleticism, paired with the laughter and cheers of participants, underscored a successful event held on Saturday, March 16.

It was a burst of energy and excitement as athletes of all ages with developmental disabilities took part in the non-competitive games and activities designed to celebrate their talents and abilities. The essence of the day was perfectly captured in the opening ceremonies, where joy and enthusiasm set the tone for an unforgettable experience.

“This is the best event of the year,” exclaims Don Skaggs, Great Oak Activities Director. “I had an opportunity to see former students of Great Oak and one mom even mentioned to me how much her special-needs son looks forward to this event each year. It is like a reunion for him.”

“Our city consistently encourages and advocates on behalf of special needs populations through programming, activities and services,” Mayor James “Stew” Stewart said in a news release.

“Temecula’s Special Games is the place where all ages and abilities can gather together to celebrate

accessibility, inclusion and a sense of belonging.”

The tapestry of the day’s events was woven by collaboration between the City of Temecula and the Temecula Valley Unified School District, showcasing a stellar model for public service. The inclusion and active involvement of every athlete, thanks to dedicated friends and adult volunteers, brought to life an empowering narrative for the participants and the city at large.

Each participant’s contribution was celebrated with a participation medal, engraining a sense of accomplishment and each story unfolded on the field was a testament to human resilience and the power of inclusivity.

“These high school students, demonstrating a remarkable example of volunteerism and camaraderie, partnered with the athletes to ensure everyone could participate to the fullest,” added Skaggs. “This partnership not only exemplified the spirit of community engagement but also nurtured bonds between the volunteers and athletes that reverberated well beyond the field.”

Touching lives and breaking barriers, the Temecula Special Games championed the notion that sports can transcend differences and foster a place of belonging for everyone.

JP Raineri can be reached by email at sports@reedermedia. com.

Josiah Sugai celebrates after shooting a basketball into a bucket during the annual Temecula Special Games at Great Oak High School, March 16.

Temecula Special Games participants and volunteers play a game of volleyball. Valley News/Shane Gibson photos

Ella Vollmer, 15, plays frisbee golf during the Temecula Special Games at Great Oak High School.

Blake Sessler, 15, plays badminton during the Temecula Special Games.

Stephan Bradford plays catch with a volunteer during the Temecula Special Games at Great Oak High School.

Temecula Special Games participants play a game of bowling on the track at Great Oak High School.

Murrieta Mesa bests Vista Murrieta softball on the road in 7-4 victory

JP Raineri Sports Editor

MURRIETA – In a Southwestern League showdown on Tuesday, March 12, the Vista Murrieta Broncos fell to the Murrieta Mesa Rams 7-4 in their home conference game. The Rams set a relentless pace by lighting up the scoreboard in the first inning, and steadily building their lead. Despite a valiant effort, the Broncos were left chasing shadows as the Rams capitalized in successive innings.

Murrieta Mesa (14-2, 5-0) took the lead with a single run in the first, consolidating their advantage with three more in the second off a Lilly Hauser 3-run blast, followed by a consistent performance that saw them score in the fourth and sixth innings. Vista Murrieta (5-4, 2-1) answered back in the latter half of the game when Mia Powell launched a three-run homer

of her own in the fifth inning, briefly igniting hopes of a Broncos resurgence. However, the initial momentum gained by the Broncos’ spirited fight was mitigated by three costly errors.

The game saw impressive individual performances, notably by sophomore Lilly Hauser of Mesa. Not only was she successful at the plate, but she also triumphed on the mound, achieving nine strikeouts in the complete game win. Victoria Prado, Paige Bambarger, and Macy Clark contributed valuable RBI’s, with Bambarger also notching a stolen base for the Rams.

The Broncos were poised for redemption when they confronted Chaparral (4-8, 1-3) in a conference game on Thursday, March 14. Both teams were ready to emerge from the middle of the pack as they clashed, bearing contrasting records into the contest. The Broncos would emerge victorious with an overpowering 20-3 victory.

Simultaneously, Murrieta Mesa prepared to face off against Great Oak (3-4-1, 2-1), who were also undefeated in Southwestern League play. This confrontation promised to be pivotal in shaping the League standings, but it went the way of the Rams, 9-0. The other two teams, Temecula Valley

(1-6, 0-5), and Murrieta

(8-8, 2-2),

JP Raineri Sports Editor

MENIFEE – On Saturday, March 23, at Santa Rosa Academy, one of the top prep basketballs showcases will hit Southern California as top high school talent will play across four games. From fresh talent to seasoned seniors, witness potential future legends battle it out on the court.

Event Lineup: 3:45 p.m. Rising Stars for the Freshman & Sophomore classes (Class of 2026/2027)

5 p.m.: Elite Juniors game (Class of 2025)

6:15 p.m.: All-California Showdown featuring standouts from across Southern California

Nightcap: The famous Desert Valley All Star game spotlighting the best Senior players (Class of 2024) from San Bernardino/ Riverside Counties.

“This is not just a game, but a stepping stone,” says event coordinator Todd Malecki. “Over 32 Division 1 players have graced

sports@reedermedia.com

Murrieta Mesa’s two-way threat, Lilly Hauser hit a 3-run homer in the second inning against Vista Murrieta Tuesday, March 12. Valley News/Action Captures Media Group photos

Valley

round out the other two teams in the standings. Send local sports updates to

Lilly Hauser (30) pitched a complete game for Murrieta Mesa, picking up the win in a 7-4 victory over Vista Murrieta.

Murrieta Mesa’s Madi Lardizabal (8) makes the throw to first base for the double play during Southwestern League action against Vista Murrieta.

Vista Murrieta’s Mia Powell (12) celebrates hitting a 3-run homer against Murrieta Mesa.

Paige Bambarger (51) makes the throw to first base for an out in Murrieta Mesa’s 7-4 victory over Vista Murrieta.

Linfield baseball triumphs over Woodcrest Christian with 9-3 victory

JP Raineri Sports Editor

TEMECULA – The Linfield Christian Varsity Boys Baseball team clinched a decisive 9-3 win against Woodcrest Christian High

School last Thursday, March 14.

The game showcased the skill of the Lions as they fought to improve their standing in the Ambassador League.

Sophomore Drew Taylor revealed his growing potential,

going 1 for 3 with a triple that galvanized the team. On the batting front, freshman Kai Carson left a strong impression, hitting 1 for 1 with a powerful double, driving in two RBIs, and securing two walks that reflected

his keen eye for the ball. Freshman Carson Root and junior Carter Stidman both contributed significantly to the scoreboard, with two RBIs each. Their confident batting not only boosted the team’s morale but also dented the hopes of the opposing side. On the defensive end, senior Ryan McCalmont dazzled with his speed and agility, swiping three bases over the course of the game. His efforts didn’t go unnoticed and played a vital role in keeping the momentum in favor of the Lions.

The pitching mound saw its share of glory with senior righthander DJ Kerr delivering a winning performance. Over six innings, Kerr threw precisely, giving up seven hits and three earned runs while sending five batters back to the bench with his strikeouts. Notably, he managed to limit his walks to just two.

Providing support from the bullpen, senior Ryan McCalmont stepped in and pitched in relief,

giving up only a single hit in his inning on the hill. McCalmont’s appearance was brief but essential, ensuring the game remained firmly in the Lions’ grip.

Looking ahead, the Lions have an intense week lined up, with two pivotal conference games against Ontario Christian, who currently hold a 3-1 league record and a 6-5 overall scoreline. Aquinas High School leads the pack with a flawless 4-0 league record, putting extra pressure on the Lions, who are currently 1-3 in the league and 7-6 overall.

The upcoming home match on Tuesday and the away game on Thursday will be critical as they present Linfield Christian with an opportunity to gain ground in the league standings. Both games are scheduled to commence at 3:15 p.m., promising another round of exciting baseball action in the Ambassador League.

Send local sports updates to sports@reedermedia.com

Golden Bears baseball triumphs over Capistrano Valley Christian

JP Raineri Sports Editor

TEMECULA – In a game that had the echoes of last season’s CIF Southern Section Division 2 playoff heartbreak, the Temecula Valley Golden Bears were not about to replay history. On

Tuesday, March 13, they seized a strong 5-1 win against Capistrano Valley Christian.

It wasn’t until the top of the fourth inning that the Eagles capitalized on an error, marking the scoreboard first. The Golden Bears, however, weren’t shaken, responding with ferocity in the bottom of the same inning. Josh Pinnell’s sacrifice fly scored a crucial run, before Taden Krogsgaard’s double dropped another two runs, raising the score to a reassuring 3-1.

Krogsgaard, just a sophomore, was nothing short of stellar on the opposite side of the field, pitching six innings, conceding just six hits and an unearned run while striking out seven. Closing up shop for the Golden Bears, Cody Liscio mastered a hitless relief inning, adding another two strikeouts to the team’s tally.

Chase Hilt’s bat spoke loud and clear as he went 2-for-2, and the united offensive effort saw both Krogsgaard and Connor Christie notch up two RBIs each. Christie’s superb .600 and Will Bandel’s .529 batting averages continue to shine as they are amongst the overall preseason leaders in batting averages, both with 9 hits on the season.

On the opposing side, Braden Butler braved the plate admirably with two hits, but his efforts could not tilt the scale in Capistrano Valley Christian’s favor.

The victory surges the Golden Bears forward, fueling their confidence going into their next challenge against Valley View on Friday, March 15, which they won

Chase Hilt went 2-for-2 at the plate to lead the Temecula Valley Golden

11-3. That was the final preseason game that remained for Temecula Valley before Southwestern League action gets underway. The Golden Bears will have a threegame series this week against Vista Murrieta. The games will alternate locations, starting at Temecula Valley. Southwestern League play promises to be enthralling for the six area teams, with the first pitch slated for a 3:15 p.m. start on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday for them all. Send local sports updates to sports@reedermedia.com

Murrieta Valley Youth Basketball summer league registrations now open

Get ready to hit the courts, because the Murrieta Youth Basketball League (MVYB) is back in action! After a hiatus due to the pandemic, MVYB is returning with a slam dunk, inviting all young ballers to join the summer season for some hoop action. Registration has officially opened for the highly anticipated summer league. Here’s all anyone needs to know to get in the game as registration is open now through April 15. This

summer league is friend-friendly as there is no draft or tryouts and players can be on teams with their buddies. The season Duration runs June 8 through August 3. Signups are online at www. murrietavalleyyouthbasketball. com or call them at 951-837-7364 for more details. Join the Murrieta Youth Basketball community and experience the adrenaline and teamwork that only basketball can offer. Whether a seasoned player or just looking for a fun way to spend your summer, MVYB welcomes players to a season of growth, competition and lots of fun!

Linfield Sophomore, Drew Taylor (3), connects for a triple during his first up vs rival team Woodcrest Christian.

Senior Pitcher, and first baseman, DJ Kerr (2), threw a brilliant game keeping Woodcrest to only 3 runs in the 9-3 rivalry battle.

Valley News/Rob Davis Photography Valley News/Rob Davis Photography

Senior left fielder, and pitcher, Ryan McCalmont, was consistent for the Lions scoring three runs in the game. Valley News/Rob Davis Photography

Taden Krogsgaard had 2 RBIs at the plate and struck out seven batters over six innings in the Golden Bears win over Capistrano Valley Christian on Tuesday, March 13. Valley News/Time Stood Still Photography photos

Bears in hits.

Temecula Valley’s Josh Pinnell hits a sacrifice fly to score an RBI against Capistrano Valley Christian on Tuesday, March 13.

JP Raineri Sports Editor

Aftermath of the Pandemic and the need for transparency

Julie Reeder Publisher

As the world slowly recovers from the grip of the COVID-19 pandemic, the conversation has not ceased but rather shifted toward evaluating the measures taken during the crisis, particularly the deployment of mRNA vaccines and the burgeoning culture of mass vaccination.

The dialogue surrounding these topic is not just a scientific or medical debate but it is also a societal and ethical discourse, reflecting deep-seated and understandable concerns about public health, corporate influence, governmental/corporate policies, informed consent, transparency, government corruption and

corporate greed.

The CDC recently released a study that they conducted on the instances of myocarditis after the COVID vaccine. When Congress requested it, they received it with all 148 pages redacted.

Remember during the COVID-19 pandemic when doctors received vaccine inserts? These should have listed all potential side effects and information, yet they were blank?

No informed consent. You can’t make the best decision for yourself, children, or loved ones without information.

The narrative of vaccines being pushed for everything from influenza to the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and human papillomavirus (HPV) raises questions about the role of pharmaceutical companies and government agencies in shaping public health policies.

The skepticism toward an everexpanding vaccine schedule is fueled by concerns over potential profit motives overshadowing genuine healthcare needs. The HPV shots, especially, have many lawsuits pending for severe damage to young people, including death.

Despite calls for transparency, both in the products as well as the handling of mandates and

Letter to the editor: Banning TikTok… the U.S. Constitution is not a suicide pact

In a rare bipartisan vote, Congress is correctly advancing a bill that would ban TikTok if the digital platform continues to be owned and influenced by the despots running the People’s Republic of China.

While some free trade libertarians and China apologists may protest this bill by citing the U.S. Constitution, our Constitution is first and foremost an American blueprint for governance.

The Constitution provides no guarantees for the “free speech” rights of foreign totalitarian regimes. Any bizarre suggestion that the Chinese Communist Party is entitled to exercise First Amendment freedoms in the U.S. comes off as both perverse and politically suicidal to our American enterprise.

The CCP is a totalitarian regime that currently utilizes fascist and corporatist policies to advance

its hegemony. America has no obligation whatsoever to offer such offensive regimes anything that even closely resembles the breadth of freedoms and privileges entitled by our own citizens.

Notable legal scholars and even Supreme Court Justices have proclaimed that our Constitution is not a “suicide pact.” But to allow the Orwellian CCP to continue to own and influence corporations here in the U.S. will only lead to further subversion, surveillance, spying, manipulation and weakening of our country. TikTok, and any similar foreign corporations here in America, must be compelled to divest from its owners or face a permanent ban. The Chinese Communist Party is neither a friend nor an ally to the United States.

Rick Reiss Temecula

mandated vaccines, Pfizer wanted to take over 50 years to release their data. Then we found out that some of the vaccines were never tested on humans, just animals.

Dr. McCullough, a worldrenowned cardiologist, and many other doctors believe that we are experiencing a cover up of colossal proportions, as he testified to in a recent congressional hearing. Transparency is what is needed more than anything, not only to analyze the good and the bad of government response during the pandemic, but also to address the known links between the vaccine in chronic disease, cancer, disabilities, strokes, heart attacks, and 17 million deaths worldwide. Especially as it relates to children and young people that have been hurt by a vaccine that they didn’t need in the first place.

Shame on everyone involved. Professionals and government officials need to do the right thing and stand up and fight against corruption.

Dr. McCullough makes the point during hearings that it’s standard procedure for any company like Pfizer to record any side effects and report them the first 90 days after the release of their product. While Pfizer recorded over 1,200 deaths in the first 90 days, they

neglected to report it and the FDA, NIH and the CDC are all complicit in running cover.

But they are too involved in corporate capture, being funded by pharma and executives, contemplating their next cushy job at a pharmaceutical company.

Transparency is needed. Not censorship. We need to be responsible for our own health and we can’t do that without transparency and informed consent.

This discussion extends beyond vaccines to address the broader issue of health in America, where chronic conditions such as obesity, hypertension, and diabetes are prevalent. The reliance on pharmaceutical interventions for these conditions, often at the expense of addressing root causes like diet and lifestyle, mirrors the concerns raised about the mass vaccination strategy.

The implication that vaccines may contribute to chronic illnesses and allergies adds another layer of complexity to the debate, challenging the one-size-fits-all approach to public health.

The criticism of entities like the CDC for their handling of the pandemic and chronic disease epidemics points to a deeper distrust in public health institutions

and their ability to regulate and safeguard the well-being of the population.

The call for transparency, accountability and a reevaluation of vaccination policies and healthcare strategies reflects a desire for a more nuanced, individualized approach to medicine that prioritizes long-term health over immediate intervention.

Also, spoiler alert - there are studies showing links between autism and vaccines, despite the rhetoric. And studies showing unvaccinated children are healthier than vaccinated, overall.

The Amish community is a good example. In addition to their avoidance of vaccines, their food is grown organically on their own farms, therefore pesticide free and is consistently sustained as such over many generations. The incidence of autism and chronic diseases are far fewer there.

As we navigate the aftermath, the lessons learned should inspire a more thoughtful, inclusive dialogue on health that respects the diversity of perspectives and needs within our society, rather than censorship, name-calling and pejoratives. But it all starts with transparency.

The I-15 Traffic Crisis: A call for immediate action

ABC7 published an article Monday afternoon, March 4, revealing the idea of “Smart Freeway” technology, intending to enhance traffic flow on Interstate 15. Yet, in its portrayal of a $25 million investment as a congestion solution, the article doesn’t talk about how the road work on I-15 has been going on for over a decade. The I-15 corridor is a vital artery for commuters as it winds its way from San Diego County through Temecula and into Riverside County, serving as a crucial lifeline for military personnel and residents. Pressing infrastructure issues on the I-15, however, are not only threatening the safety and wellbeing of the community but have been causing congestion, delays and frustration.

The congestion and delays in traffic are symptoms of a bigger problem that affects everyone who lives in our area. For years, residents have been dealing with traffic delays and frustrations, and it has been nearly a decade since a major project began designated as the French Valley Parkway Improvements. Nine years and eleven months of construction, and we are only halfway through Phase two. The plan was ambitious: the widening and adding of off-ramps as well as the promise to tackle the bottleneck at the northbound I-15/Interstate 215 junction. Present day, the real heart of the problem, the bottleneck remains untouched. It’s time to address the broader issue head-on: the need for accelerated solutions through increased manpower and funding.

The heart of the crisis

A path forward: more hands, more funds

As we look ahead to the current phase of construction slated to be completed in May 2025, there’s a sense of uncertainty in the air. Neon green outlines on maps of the I-15 provide more insight to the grand plans of what’s to come, but the details are scarce. The solution to this crisis is twofold: increase the workforce dedicated to road construction and allocate additional funding to support these efforts. Accelerating the pace of construction will not only expedite the completion of vital projects like the French Valley Parkway but also serve as a model for tackling similar infrastructure challenges across the state.

Increasing the workforce and boosting funding

Increasing the number of skilled laborers on this project can significantly shorten completion timelines. Utilizing round-the clock shifts maximizes non-peak hours and reduces disruptions during heavy traffic periods. The second aspect of this strategy involves securing additional funding. Large-scale infrastructure projects require substantial

At the core of the I-15 traffic crisis is a chokepoint that affects not just daily commuters but the very fabric of our national security. Military personnel commuting to nearby bases such as U.S. Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Marine Corps Air Station Miramar and March Air Reserve Base navigate the I-15. Additionally, military units tasked with the critical duty of safeguarding our nation find their mobility severely hindered when traveling to more distant bases like Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms and naval bases in the Port of San Diego. These military installations are not just points on a map; they are key nodes in our defense network. The current state of congestion disrupts the operational readiness of our armed forces, presenting a clear and present danger to our national security.

investment, but the benefits such as improved traffic flow, enhanced safety and national security are immeasurable. State and federal governments must prioritize these investments, leveraging both public and private funds to bridge the financial gap.

Military, community and economic benefits

By addressing the traffic crisis, we not only improve the quality of life for our service members but also ensure that they can fulfill their duties without undue hindrance. Easing the I-15 traffic congestion holds significant advantages for the broader community, it is about the promise of progress and the hope for a better future Temecula. Improved traffic flow translates to reduced commute times, lower stress levels and a healthier worklife balance for the community as a whole.

As we witness the construction entering its 11th year, it is time for us to pause and consider the path we’ve taken and the road ahead. Instead of being dazzled by a “Smart Freeway,” we must demand accountability and transparency in infrastructure investments. The language describing the fancy technology is masking the fundamental question: are we investing in infrastructure that truly addresses the root causes of congestion? Temecula, with its unique position at the crossroads of San Diego and Riverside counties, has the opportunity to be a beacon of change. Imagine the impact on our community if we could alleviate the bottleneck at the I-15/I-215, reduce congestion and create a safer and efficient freeway.

Brian GarciaCardona and Kimberly Chavez MSW students at the University of Southern California

REGIONAL NEWS

Highway Updates

RCTC seeks support for the proposed 2024 Traffic Relief Plan: 1 cent sales tax needed

Tony Ault Staff Writer

In the past several weeks, Aaron Hake, executive director of the Riverside County Transportation Commission, appeared before a number of Southwest Riverside County cities with a presentation in support of a proposed RCTC 2024 Traffic Relief Plan to raise approximately $25 million in unfunded county highway projects. The funding for the plan would come from a proposed one cent sales tax in Riverside County.

He explains if the measure is placed on the November ballot and approved by a two-thirds majority vote, the money raised from the measure would remain within the county areas where it is collected and placed into the 2024 Traffic Relief Plan for the next decade.

RCTC hosted an online webinar on Wednesday, March 20 to provide information on the draft 2024 Traffic Relief Plan (TRP). Residents across Riverside County gave their feedback.

It was explained the TRP is a comprehensive countywide “strategic blueprint” to help reduce traffic congestion by constructing highway improvements, repairing potholes on local roads and streets, increasing the frequency of public transportation, and fortifying Riverside County’s transportation infrastructure against natural disasters.

Projects that could be funded include the construction of the mid-county expressway from Menifee to Lamb Canyon in

RIVERSIDE COUNTY –

The Riverside County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously

Tuesday, March 12, to support two resolutions by Animal Services officials: one that would see healthy, uninjured cats returned to their native environments and the other providing support for the 5,000 Cat Challenge – an initiative that seeks to improve live outcomes for cats in Riverside County in 2024.

“Many cats impounded in county shelters are unsocial ‘feral’ cats and lost cats,” Dr. Kim Youngberg, assistant director at Riverside County Department of Animal Services, said. “These cats have few opportunities for adoption or placement. Also, fewer than 2% of shelter cats are reclaimed by their owners. We can help save cats’ lives by returning those cats that are healthy and not injured to where they were found.”

San Jacinto, the construction of more I-15/215 offramps and interchanges, and widened highways between southwestern Riverside cities, improving traffic flow.

The complete RCTC draft 2024 TRP can be found on the RCTC website rctc.org.

The week of March 18 through March 22 RCTC announced there will be nighttime alternating lane closures scheduled on eastbound and westbound Highway 60 in the Badlands between Moreno Valley and Beaumont. The lane closures will allow crews to safely perform roadway maintenance. The lane closures will take place from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. each night. However, the construction is subject to change. Follow @60TruckLanes on social media for the latest project information.

Caltrans bridge projects

The California Department of Transportation announced contractor crews will begin the $4.24M bridge work on State

Route 74 at Morrill Canyon Bridge located east of Riverside County Line, between Ortega Oaks Candy Store and Tenaja Truck Trail on Monday, April 8 during the nighttime hours. However, a closure of SR-74 at the bridge is scheduled to occur from Friday, April 12 through Monday, April 15. That work activity will begin at 10 p.m. and last through Monday at 5 a.m. Signage will be placed at various locations informing drivers about closures ahead.

The crews will perform work on k-rail installation, structure work,

paving, excavation, abutment and various other work activities. Weekday work may occur in shoulder areas. All work is weather and material dependent meaning delays and changes may occur in the work schedule.

In the Strawberry Bridge project on SR-74 between Hemet and Mountain Center, contracted crews have completed pouring the eastbound abutments and retaining wall but other work now includes upgrades with slab overlay and new guardrail systems to bring lane and shoulder widths up to current standards. Traffic control will remain the same Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. and possibly some weekends. Drivers are again reminded that temporary traffic signals are in place at each end of the bridge with k-rail, making the bridge single lane access only. Do not proceed if the light is red.

There is other bridge upgrading and maintenance work being done in Riverside on Interstate 15 from Murrieta Hot Springs to Ontario Ranch; State Route 71 near Pomona Rincon Road; and State Route 91 from Green River Road to University Avenue, all weather permitting. Nighttime work will occur Wednesday through Friday.

Other Caltrans projects

Caltrans, in partnership with RCTC, is still doing some work on the 4.5-mile section of Route 60 from Gilman Springs Road to 1.4 miles west of Jack Rabbit Trail in the Badlands between Moreno Valley and Beaumont. Motorists are to be careful to watch out for

crews still working on that project that includes the new truck lanes.

In the Lake Elsinore area, Caltrans is also working on the Ortega Highway (SR-74) from the Riverside and Orange County border to Monte Vista Street bringing some weeknight full closures with one-way traffic control; escorts will be in place from 8 to 9:59 p.m. During the hours of 10 p.m. to 5 a.m., the route will be closed to through traffic with residents and commuters needing to utilize the alternate routes to go around the closure each night beginning at 10 p.m. Motorists on that highway are asked to please wait for a designated escort through the construction zone. Please obey all posted signs and traffic instructions, including the escort, as CHP will be on location and citing any offenders. Residents will be escorted in and out of the construction zones from their designated areas of access.

Caltrans crews are also working in a number of locations on and off the Interstate 15 and Interstate 215 in the Murrieta, Temecula and Wildomar areas. Those include from the I-15 North and South from Murrieta Hot Springs to Bundy Canyon Road. The work includes upgrading facilities to the Americans with Disabilities Act. From the I-15 at SR-79 to Kalmia Street and California Oaks Road and from Baxter Road to Bundy Canyon Road the crews will be working on installing trash capture devices. Watch for signage alerting motorists of upcoming

lane closures and construction zones.

Also from Interstate 215 to Clinton Keith Road in Wildomar and Murrieta, crews will be performing shoulder work on both the Northbound and Southbound on-ramp and off-ramp of California Oaks and Kalmia, as well as at the abutments of the Southbound I-15 and I-215 connector. Watch for signage alerting motorists of upcoming lane closures and construction zones. Drivers should anticipate traffic delays and plan ahead.

From Florida Avenue in Hemet between Winchester Road in west Hemet to Fairview Ave. in Valle Vista, Caltrans crews are busy working on corridor improvement projects at many intersections. Those improvements include installing better traffic management systems, upgrading curb ramps, sidewalks and driveways to ADA standards, enhancing bike lane signage and striping, and upgrading 29 bus pads within the project parameters.

Motorists on that Hemet highway should expect some delays during nighttime operations. Please use alternate routes to avoid any delays. More rain could delay work. The driveway, curb ramp, sidewalk construction and micro trenching is taking place throughout the week. Watch for alternate route signage for business access.

Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com

Riverside County Board of Supervisors passes two resolutions to save cat lives along with spay/neuter services, if available, so that they can then be adopted, fostered or returned to their owner. The initiative to improve the outcomes and promote the health of Riverside County cats is part of a larger, countywide effort called the 5,000 Cat Challenge, a resolution also unanimously accepted by the county board of supervisors March 12.

There are no state laws that restrict cats from roaming. In fact, it is believed that many of the lost, healthy cats brought to the shelter by well-meaning residents are someone’s pet, Youngberg said. Cats that are sick or injured will be accepted into the shelter system where veterinary staff will work to restore the animal’s health,

include reducing barriers to adoption, a robust community cat program, foster, rescue, foster and spay/neuter opportunities, as well as managing intake in a way that aims to keep cats out of local shelters.

Since the January launch of the challenge, Animal Services officials have begun partnering with local community TrapNeuter-Return groups to spay/ neuter more than 100 cats at

the San Jacinto Valley Animal Campus and Western Riverside County Animal Shelter.

“This is about saving cats’ lives at a time when our shelters are extremely overcrowded with lost pets and strays,” Youngberg said. “The longer an animal languishes in the shelter system, the more at risk it is of not having a live outcome. We are looking forward to working with our partners to meet that challenge.”

To view adoptable pets from any of Riverside County Department of Animal Services shelters, visit https://rcdas.org/adoptable-pets.

To learn more about foster opportunities, email foster@ rivco.org

For more information on Animal Services, visit http://www.rcdas.

org

Submitted by Riverside County Department of Animal Services.

Action items for the challenge

SAN BERNARDINO – The San Bernardino National Forest and San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department is seeking information about individuals allegedly transporting and dumping engine oil near the forest in December 2023.

A tall, white Dodge van was observed and photographed with several dozens of five-gallon containers of used engine oil that came from tractor-trailers. The van belongs to the Jinhong mobile truck repair and oil changing service.

The forest is asking the public for leads on the identity of the individuals, who drove the van and allegedly dumped the oil last year.

“Dumping is something we take very seriously,” USDA Forest Service Law Enforcement Officer Ishmill Lett said. “We are asking for the public’s help in finding the

Supreme Court denies Peter Navarro’s bid to delay prison term

The former Trump White House aide is slated to report to prison on March 19, as of press time

Samantha Flom

The Epoch Times

The Supreme Court’s chief justice on March 18 rejected former Trump White House aide Peter Navarro’s emergency petition to delay his prison sentence.

The decision came a day before Mr. Navarro was to report to federal prison to serve his four-month sentence for defying a congressional subpoena.

In issuing the order, Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts said he had “no basis to disagree” with the appeals court ruling, though he added that the finding wouldn’t affect the outcome of Mr. Navarro’s appeal.

Mr. Navarro was convicted in September 2023 on two counts of contempt of Congress after he failed to comply with a subpoena from the House Jan. 6 select committee.

His initial request to delay his sentence pending appeal was denied in February by U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta, who held that the trade adviser to former President Donald Trump failed to present any substantial questions of law in his motion that would likely yield a better result.

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit upheld that ruling on March 14.

Appellant has not shown that his appeal presents substantial questions of law or fact likely to result in reversal, new trial, a sentence that does not include a term of imprisonment, or a reduced sentence of imprisonment that is less than the amount of time already served plus the expected duration of the appeal process,” the threejudge panel ruled.

But in his March 15 petition to Chief Justice Roberts, Mr. Navarro argued that his appeal “will raise a number of issues on appeal that he contends are likely to result in the reversal of his conviction, or a new trial.”

“For the first time in our nation’s history, a senior presidential advisor has been convicted of contempt of Congress after asserting executive privilege over a congressional subpoena,” Mr. Navarro’s attorneys wrote.

Peter Navarro to Appeal Contempt Conviction: ‘There’s

Very Much a Constitutional Disconnect Here’

“Navarro is indisputably neither a flight risk nor a danger to public

safety should he be released pending appeal.”

In response to Justice Roberts’s ruling, Mr. Navarro released a statement on March 18 saying he would continue to appeal his case, even if a resolution comes after the end of his prison sentence, as “the constitutional separation of powers will be irreparably damaged and doctrine of executive privilege … will cease to function,” if the appeal fails, he said.

He said his “partisan” imprisonment should “chill the bones of every American.”

“In Joe Biden’s weaponized justice system, a Democrat controlled Congress and Justice Department together with an Obama-appointed District Judge and three Obama-appointed Appeals Court judges drove the Navarro railroad right into prison.

“If anybody thinks these partisans and politicians in robes aren’t coming for Donald Trump, they must think twice now,” Mr. Navarro added.

On Capitol Hill, Mr. Navarro’s conviction and sentencing has sparked calls for an investigation into the Jan. 6 select committee’s work.

In a March 15 letter, Rep. Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.) urged fellow Rep. Barry Loudermilk (RGa.), chairman of the House Administration Oversight Committee, to “conduct further oversight” over the committee’s decision to recommend contempt of Congress charges against former Trump administration officials.

“As you are likely aware, former White House Director of the Office of Trade and Manufacturing Policy Peter Navarro has been ordered to report to prison next week based on his refusal to comply with the demands of the committee that has been shown to be illegitimately constituted and hopelessly tainted,” Mr. Biggs wrote.

The congressman told The Epoch Times last week that his concern was that the committee’s work was influenced by political bias.

“That Mr. Navarro is required to report to federal prison for refusing to comply with an illegitimate committee’s demands is indicative of our nation’s two-tiered justice system,” Mr. Biggs said.

“Throwing political opponents behind bars is a cruel move more

likely to be seen in communist China and banana republics around the world. We must swiftly bring this practice to an end if we hope to protect our republic.”

Mr. Navarro has been ordered to surrender himself to the Federal Correctional Institution in Miami no later than 2 p.m. on March 19.

Meanwhile, the high court is set to hear oral arguments next month in another case involving Jan. 6— President Trump’s federal election obstruction case.

The former president’s legal team holds that presidential immunity exempts him from prosecution in the election case being brought against him by Justice Department special counsel Jack Smith. They also contend that based on double jeopardy principles, President Trump can’t be prosecuted over conduct for which he was already impeached and acquitted by the U.S. Senate.

The Supreme Court will hear those arguments during the week of April 22.

Sam Dorman, Savannah Hulsey Pointer, Zachary Stieber, and The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Putin issues warning of ‘Full-Scale World War III’ in post-election speech

French President Emmanuel Macron recently asserted that he believes sending NATO troops to Ukraine could be a realistic prospect should the war persist.

Jack Phillips

The Epoch Times

Russian President Vladimir Putin on March 18 warned that the Ukraine-Russia conflict could morph into a “full-scale” war with NATO that could spark World War III. He made the remarks shortly after securing another six-year term in office.

Mr. Putin said he would continue the conflict even if NATO gets involved.

French President Emmanuel Macron recently asserted that he believes sending troops to Ukraine could be a realistic prospect should the war persist.

“I think anything is possible in today’s world and it’s clear to everyone that this would be one step from a full-scale World War III,” Mr. Putin said, blaming the West for providing military aid to Kyiv.

The Russian president also said he believes that NATO personnel are already inside Ukraine and engaged in combat, claiming that Russian intelligence has spotted

French and English being spoken during fighting.

“There is nothing good in this, first of all for them, because they are dying there and in large numbers,” he said, according to reports.

“It seems that France could play a role. All is not lost yet. I’ve been saying it over and over again and I’ll say it again. We are for peace talks, but not just because the enemy is running out of bullets,” he said.

The comments about a Third World War come as Mr. Putin and other top Russian officials repeatedly have warned that the Ukraine conflict could turn into a nuclear war. Days after the February 2022 invasion of Ukraine, Russia placed its nuclear forces on a higher alert, sparking concerns from U.S. officials at the time.

This past week, the Russian leader again warned the West that Moscow is “of course, ready” for a nuclear conflict. He said that if the United States deploys troops in Ukraine, it would significantly

escalate tensions.

Also in his speech, which was given to crowds at Moscow’s Red Square, Mr. Putin said that Crimea—which is internationally recognized as a part of Ukraine— would always be part of Russia.

In 2014, Russian forces invaded the Crimean Peninsula before annexing it in the immediate aftermath of Ukrainian mass protests that led to the ouster of a former Ukrainian president.

“They have never separated themselves from Russia,” Mr. Putin said of the peninsula located in the Black Sea. “And this is exactly what made it possible for Crimea to return to our common family.”

Ahead of the Russian election that ended on March 17, Ukraine stepped up attacks against Russia, shelling border regions and even using proxies to try to pierce Russia’s borders.

Asked if he considered it necessary to take Ukraine’s Kharkiv region, Mr. Putin said that if the attacks continued, Russia would create a buffer zone out of more Ukrainian territory to defend Russia.

“I do not exclude that, bearing

in mind the tragic events taking place today, we will be forced at some point, when we deem it appropriate, to create a certain ’sanitary zone’ in the territories today under the Kyiv regime,” Mr. Putin said.

He declined to give any further details but said such a zone might have to be big enough to preclude foreign-made armaments from reaching Russian territory.

Election Criticized

After early results showed that Mr. Putin would win with more than 87 percent of the vote, the White House and other Western countries said the elections were a sham because all the opposition candidates were either dead, jailed, or prevented from running.

Notably, a key Russian opposition activist, Alexei Navalny, died in a Russian prison earlier this year.

“The elections are obviously not free nor fair,” a White House National Security Council spokesperson told news outlets on March 17, adding that political opponents have been imprisoned while others were prevented from running.

A spokesperson for the UK

Foreign Office blasted Russia for having held elections in “Ukrainian territory,” referring to the regions of the Donbas that, in part, sparked the Ukraine–Russia conflict in 2022.

“By illegally holding elections on Ukrainian territory, Russia demonstrates that it is not interested in finding a path to peace. The UK will continue to provide humanitarian, economic, and military aid to Ukrainians defending their democracy,” the UK spokesperson said.

Germany’s Foreign Ministry echoed those claims, saying that the election should not have been held in “occupied territories of Ukraine” and is “another breach of international law.”

But Mr. Putin dismissed the criticism, saying that the U.S. elections in 2020 were not held fairly.

“The whole world is laughing at what is happening there,” he said, referring to the United States. “It is just a catastrophe—it is not democracy—what on earth is it?”

Reuters contributed to this report. Reprinted with permission.

Copyright 2024-Epoch Times.

If you have an upcoming community event, email it to valleyeditor@reedermedia.com, put “attention events” in the subject line. Readers should call ahead on some listed events for the latest updates.

Regular Happenings

Anza Community Hall Swap

Meet - Every 1st and 3rd Saturday of the month. $15 for a spot with membership. $18 for a spot without membership. Vendors wanted. The hall is located at 56630 Highway 371 in Anza. See membership information under “Organizations.”

ONGOING – Anza Electric

Cooperative and F.I.N.D. Food

Bank offers a free mobile food pantry the second Saturday of every month at the AEC office, 58470 Highway 371, from 10:3011:30 a.m. All are welcome. CalFresh application assistance and free community health services are also available. Bring your own reusable bags to take food home. Volunteers welcome. For more information, contact the AEC office at 951-763-4333.

Friends of Anza Valley Community Library – Anza Valley Community Library is located at Hamilton High School, 57430 Mitchell Road. The library is open to the public, but not during school hours. Hours are 4-7 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday and 12-4 p.m. on Sunday. Closed Monday through Wednesday.

Hamilton High School – Find out what is happening using Hamilton’s online calendar at www.hamiltonbobcats.net/apps/ events/calendar

Hamilton Museum – 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Open Wednesdays and Saturdays at 39991 Contreras Road in Anza. For more information, call 951-763-1350 or visit www.hamiltonmuseum. org. Find them on Facebook at “Hamilton-Museum-and-RanchFoundation.”

Backcountry Horsemen

Redshank Riders – Meetings on the second Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. Locations change, so please contact Mike by email at stumblinl55@gmail.com or by calling 951-760-9255.

Health, exercise, resources and recovery meetings

Fit after 50 – 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Tuesday and Friday mornings at Anza Community Hall. Free. Wear comfortable clothes and supportive shoes. Call or text instructor Teresa Hoehn at 951751-1462 for more information.

Narcotics Anonymous Meeting – 6 p.m. Every Tuesday at Shepherd Of The Valley Church, 56095 Pena Road in Anza. Open participation.

Veterans’ Gathering

Mondays – 9-11 a.m. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 39075 Contreras Road in Anza. Men and women veterans come to share and help each other deal with post-traumatic stress disorder and other difficulties. Call John Sheehan at 951-9236153. If you need an advocate to help with VA benefits, call Ronnie Imel at 951-659-9884.

The Most Excellent Way – A Christ-centered recovery program for all kinds of addiction meets Fridays from 7-8:30 p.m. and Tuesdays from 8-10 a.m. Program is court approved; child care is provided. Transportation help is available. The group meets at 58050 Highway 371; the cross street is Kirby Road in Anza.

AA Men’s Meeting – 7 p.m. Meetings take place Thursdays at 39551 Kirby Road in Anza, south of Highway 371.

Alcoholics Anonymous – 8 p.m. Wednesday evenings at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 56095 Pena Road in Anza. For more information, call 951-763-4226.

Bereaved Parents of the USA – The Aguanga-Anza Chapter of BPUSA will hold its meetings at 6 p.m. on the first and third Wednesday of each month at 49109 Lakeshore Blvd. in Aguanga. For more information, contact chapter leader Linda Hardee at 951-551-2826.

58581 Route 371, Anza. For more information, 951-7634759.

Food ministries

F.U.N. Group weekly food ministry – Deliveries arrive by noon Thursdays at the Anza Community Hall. To order a paid box and help feed those who can’t afford to pay, drop off payment and cash donations by Thursday at 1:30 p.m., to ERA Excel Realty, 56070 Highway 371 in Anza. Pay inside or drop off during the day in the red box outside. To drop it off, put name and request on an envelope with payment inside. A $30 box has about $100 worth of food and feeds six people. Half boxes are available for $15. Food is delivered once a week to those who cannot find a ride. For more information, call Bill Donahue at 951-288-0903.

Living Hope Christian Fellowship Community Dinner – Dinners at 1 p.m. are held the last Sunday of the month at the Anza Community Hall. All are welcome. Donations of time, money, etc. are always welcome.

Food for the Faithful – 8 a.m. The food bank hands out food the last Friday of the month until the food is gone. The clothes closet will be open too. Emergency food handed out as needed at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. FFF is a non-denominational nonprofit. All in need are welcome; call Esther Barragan at 951-763-5636.

Bible studies

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Anza’s Sunday Sacrament is at 10 a.m.; Sunday School is 11 a.m. Priesthood/Relief Society meets at noon; Wednesday, Boy Scouts gathers 6 p.m. and Youth Night is 7 p.m. For more information, call Ruiz at 951-445-7180 or Nathan at 760-399-0727. The Wednesday Genealogy/Family History Class, 5-8 p.m., is open to the public at 39075 Contreras Road in Anza.

Native Lighthouse Fellowship

– 10 a.m. The group meets the first Saturday of the month, and breakfast is served. All are welcome to fellowship together at the “Tribal Hall” below the casino in Anza. For more information, call Nella Heredia at 951-7630856.

Living Hope Bible Study

8-10 a.m. Tuesdays at Living Hope Christian Fellowship, 58050 Highway 371, Anza. All are welcome. For more information, call Pastor Kevin at 951-763-1111.

Anza RV Clubhouse – 7 p.m., the second Wednesday of the Month, Pastor Kevin officiates at 41560 Terwilliger Road in Anza.

Monthly Christian Men’s Breakfast – 9 a.m. Breakfast takes place the fourth Saturday of each month and rotates to different locations. Contact Jeff Crawley at 951-763-1257 for more information. Shepherd of the Valley

Lutheran Church – 10 a.m.

Weekly Wednesday Bible study takes place at 56095 Pena Road in Anza. Call 951-763-4226 for more information. Valley Gospel Chapel – 7 a.m. Saturday Men’s Study meets weekly with breakfast usually served at 43275 Chapman Road in the Terwilliger area of Anza. For more information, call 951763-4622. Anza First Southern Baptist Church – Begin your week with Sunday School for all ages at 9 a.m., followed by Sunday morning worship at 10:30 a.m. On Sunday nights, the church has prayer on the 1st and 4th Sundays from 6-7 p.m. and Bible study on the 2nd and 3rd Sundays from 6-8 p.m. On Monday evenings, from 6-8 p.m., the youth group (6 to 12 grade) meets for games and Bible study. Anza Baptist Church also offers Men’s and Women’s Ministries, a Homeschool Support Group, Summer Vacation Bible School and a Seniors’ Ministry. The church office is open Wednesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The church is located at 39200 Rolling Hills Road in Anza. For more information, contact the church at 951-763-4937 or visit www. anzabaptistchurch.com

Clubs

Anza Valley VFW Post 1873, Capt. John Francis Drivick III Post – The Ladies’ and Men’s Auxiliaries are located at 59011 Bailey Road in Anza. Mail P.O. Box 390433. Request monthly newsletter and or weekly menu by email at vfw1873anzaca@ gmail.com. For more information, call 951-763-4439 or visit http:// vfw1873.org

High Country 4-H Club – 6:30 p.m. Meetings are on the third Wednesday of the month, except February, at Anza Community Hall. 4-H Club is for youth 5 to 19 years old offering a variety of projects. High Country 4-H Club is open to children living in the Anza, Aguanga and surrounding areas. For more information, call Allison Renck at 951-663-5452.

Anza Valley Artists Meetings

– Meetings at 1 p.m. are the third Saturday of each month at various locations. Share art, ideas and participate in shows. Guest speakers are always needed. For more information, call president Rosie Grindle at 951-928-1248. Find helpful art tips at www.facebook.com/ AnzaValleyArtists

Anza Quilter’s Club –Meetings are held at 9:30 a.m. on the first Tuesday of each month at the Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 56095 Pena Road, Anza. For more information see our Facebook page or contact Pat Sprint at jpsprint@gmail.com or Ellen Elmore at luvtoquilt2@gmail.

com

Anza Valley Lions Club – The Anza Valley Lions Club has been reinstated and is open to all men and women who want to work together for the betterment of the community. The group is working on securing a new venue for meetings. Meetings and events are posted on the Anza Lions Club of Anza Valley Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ LionsofAnzaValley. For more information, email president Greg Sandling at President. AnzaLions@gmail.com or Chris Skinner at Secretary.AnzaLions@

gmail.com

Civil Air Patrol – Squadron 59 is looking for new members of all ages. For more information, call squadron commander Maj. Dennis Sheehan from the Anza area at 951-403-4940. To learn more and see the club’s meeting schedule, visit www.squadron59.

org

Fire Explorer Program – 6 p.m. The program meets every second, third and fourth Tuesday of the month at Fire Station 29 on state Route 371 in Anza. Call 951-763-5611 for information.

Redshank Riders – 7 p.m. Backcountry horsemen meet at the Little Red Schoolhouse in Anza, the second Thursday of each month. Visit www. redshankriders.com or call Carol Schmuhl for membership information at 951-663-6763.

Anza Thimble Club – The club meets the first Thursday of the month at the Anza Community Hall, 43275 Chapman Road in Anza. The social hour is 11:30 a.m., and lunch is served at noon. Contact Carol Wright at 951-7632884 for more information.

Organizations Terwilliger Community Association – 6 p.m. Second Monday of the month at VFW Post 1873, 59011 Bailey Road, in Anza. Potluck dinner open to all. For more information, call Tonie Ford at 951-763-4560.

From the Heart Christian Women’s Ministries – Noon. Monthly luncheon and guest speaker are held the second Saturday of each month. The $5 charge covers lunch at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 56095 Pena Road, Anza. From the Heart helps the area’s neediest children and invites all women and men to join in their mission. Donate or help with the rummage sales twice a year to raise funds for the cause or other events. For more information, call president Christi James at 951-595-2400.

Anza Community Hall – 7 p.m. General membership meetings are held the fourth Thursday of the month. Single memberships are $30 and include discounts to events for one person and 1 vote in elections and meetings. Family memberships are $50 and include discounts for a family up to 5 members and 1 vote in elections and meetings. Business memberships are $50 and allows an employer to receive discounts for up to 5 people, including themselves, and includes 1 vote on elections and meetings. No government funds are allocated for the Hall, which pays its bills through memberships and swap meets. Mail membership to: Anza Community Building Inc. at P.O. Box 390091, Anza, CA 92539. The hall is located at 56630 Highway 371 in Anza. For more information, call 951282-4267 or email achageneral@ gmail.com or visit www. anzacommunitybuilding.org

Anza Civic Improvement League – 9 a.m. meets the first Saturday of each month at the Little Red Schoolhouse. The league maintains Minor Park and the Little Red School House, which are both available to rent for events. No government funds are allowed; the membership pays the bills – $10 a person, $18 family or $35 business membership. For more information, visit www. anzacivic.org

Sheriff’s Blotter

report taken

Follow-up - address withheld, Anza, handled by deputy March 14

Public disturbance - 4800 *** block Valley Dr., Anza, handled by deputy

Danger to self/other - 5900 *** block Anzanita Ln., Anza, report taken

Attempt warrant serviceaddress withheld, Anza, warrant Alarm call - 5600 *** block St. Hwy. 371, Anza, handled by deputy March 15

Miscellaneous criminal - 3700

The Sheriff’s Blotter enables residents to know what criminal activity is occurring in their communities.

Hwy. 371 Anza, handled by deputy

Harrassing phone calls - address withheld, Anza, handled by deputy

Battery - 3900 *** block

Tamscott Dr., Anza, report taken

Suspicious circumstance - 3900 *** block Boulder Hill Dr., Anza, handled by deputy

Area check - address undefined, Anza, handled by deputy

March 17

Follow-up - address withheld, Anza, handled by deputy

Fraud - 3700 *** block Jack Ln., Anza, handled by deputy

Burglary - 3800 *** block

Boulton Rd., Anza, handled by deputy

Suspicious person - 5300 *** block Cahuilla Rd., Anza, handled by deputy

Follow-up - address withheld, Anza, handled by deputy Check the welfare - 5900 *** block Rincon Ridge Rd., Anza, handled by deputy

Assist other department - address undefined, Aguanga, handled by deputy

Assist other departmentaddress undefined, Anza, handled by deputy

Suspicious circumstance - 4600 *** block Jojoba Rd., Aguanga, handled by deputy

Suspect info - address withheld, Anza, handled by deputy Noise complaint - 3900 *** block Howard Rd., Anza, handled by deputy

Trespassing - 5600 *** block St. Hwy. 371 Anza, handled by deputy No assumption of criminal guilt or affiliation should be drawn from the content provided in the Sheriff’s Blotter.

Residents with information regarding any crimes are encouraged to contact the Hemet Sheriff’s Station at 951-791-3400.

Criminal activity can also be reported through the We-Tip Crime Reporting Hotline, 909-987-5005 or https://wetip.com.

Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia. com *** block Regal Blue Tr., Anza, report taken Follow-up- address withheld,

Anza Valley Library hosts book and DVD sale

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

The Anza Valley Library continues to provide books, services and inspiration to the residents of Anza. Recently, the Friends of the Anza Valley Library organized a book and DVD Sale at the facility to both provide great deals to the public and raise funds for the library.

“Pick up a paw-full of interesting books and DVDs fur next to nothing and support your local public library at the same time,” said Steve Merritt, Friends of the Anza Valley Library member, whose cat, Loki, appeared in social media posts about the event.

The sale will be held weekly - Thursday and Friday 4 - 7 p.m.

Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Sunday 12 - 4 p.m.

Sale Prices include hardbound books 3 for $1, paperback books 5 for $1, DVDs 3 for $1 and complete season DVDs $1 each collection.

“Loki got four great books to

climb onto, don’t miss out,” said Merritt.

The Anza Valley Library is a joint-use public library, located inside Hamilton High School at 57430 Mitchell Road in Anza. It is part of the Riverside County Library System and a completely separate entity from the high school.

The public may visit the library Thursday and Friday from 4 - 7 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. and Sunday 12 - 4 p.m..

Staff may be reached by calling 951-763-4216.

Please join the Friends of the Anza Valley Community Library on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ groups/223224583610311

Don’t have a library card? Go to www.rivlib.net to sign up online for free. Visit the library on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ AnzaLibrary/ Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia. com

TAXES from page D-1 alert for unauthorized transactions.

at risk for other types of identity theft. According to Equifax, an American multinational consumer credit reporting agency, this can include other types of financial, medical, employment, child, estate, criminal and synthetic identity theft. Government agencies are urging consumers to be on guard against tax-time identity theft. Tax fraud is one of the most common ways consumers report their identities being stolen in recent years. Some people reported that when they went to file their taxes in 2021, someone had already used their Social Security number to file. This is the most common form of tax fraud; the tips below will help consumers protect their refund and personal information this tax season:

• Store personal information like birth certificates, credit cards, and social security cards in a safe place.

• Attempt to collect mail every day, and place a hold on mail when away from home for several days.

• Review credit card and bank account statements monthly and be

• Watch out for IRS and tax imposter scams. Fraudsters often pose as the IRS to scare and trick their victims into disclosing personal information or sending them money. Scammers take advantage of tax season and target those who have tax related debt. Remember: the IRS will not call about taxes without sending a notice through the mail first.

• File taxes as early as possible. The IRS began accepting 2024 Individual Income Tax Returns Monday, Jan. 29. Identity thieves use consumer information to file fraudulent tax returns and steal refunds before the individual files.

• File online in safety. When filing online, use anti-virus software and ensure the computer is connected to a secure internet connection. Use strong and unique passwords and enable multi-factor authentication whenever possible. Do not use public Wi-Fi. There are several websites that allow certain taxpayers to prepare and file their taxes for free, such as the IRS Free File program.

• Get an Identity Protection Personal Identification Number. Taxpayers who can verify their

identities may opt into the IRS IP PIN program, a free added layer of protection. The ID Protection PIN is a six-digit code known only to the individual and the IRS. Use the Get an Identity Protection PIN tool on the IRS website to immediately get an IP PIN. Never share the IP PIN with anyone but a trusted tax provider.

• Use a legitimate tax preparer. Consumers should make sure their preparer is reputable, licensed and has a Preparer Tax Identification Number from the IRS. Visit www.irs.gov or call 800-9069887 to qualify for free tax prep services provided by IRS-certified volunteers.

If taxpayers suspect that they have been a victim of tax identity theft, it can be reported to the Federal Trade Commission online at www.identitytheft.gov or by phone at 877-438-4338. Report IRS imposter scams to the Treasury Department at https:// home.treasury.gov/services/ report-fraud-waste-and-abuse/ report-scam-attempts.

Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia. com

handled by deputy Public disturbance - 4100 *** block Terwilliger Rd., Anza, handled by deputy March 16 Area check - 5600 *** block St.

Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo

Are you?

Zachary Elliott

Special to the Valley News

Have you ever noticed how you don’t have to teach a child to take things? Taking another child’s toy comes naturally to them. We are all born selfish and want more for ourselves than others have.

From childhood to our last days on earth, we will all struggle to be generous. Chances are, it’s a battle you fight every day.

While waging the battle for generosity, here are six truths you should know.

Everyone wants to be generous. No one wants to be known as a selfish and stingy person.

Most people think they are generous. Remember that one time you gave in 2007, you’re

generous, right?

Most people who think they are generous aren’t. If you were to audit your life, would it come back with a balance of generosity?

No one becomes generous by accident. You don’t wake up one day and presto-chango, you’re a generous person. You must plan for it and do it.

We serve a generous God. No one is more generous than God. You would do well to follow his example.

God wants all his people to be generous. The Bible is full of commands for his people to live lives of generosity. There are zero commands for his people to be selfish.

Did any of these truths ring true for you? I know they did for me. It’s time to make a change.

If you’re wondering how to live a life of generosity that’s pleasing to God, here are three steps you can take today.

God’s people are generous with their time.

The funny thing about time is you can only use it once. You have one life to live, and God wants you to use your time for his glory. Not for selfish gain.

Ephesians 5:15-16 said, “Look carefully then how you live, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.”

God’s people are generous with their talent.

God made you a gifted and talented person. Not many things are as bad as wasted talent. Don’t waste yours. God wants you to use your talent generously and for his glory.

The Bible said, “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms,” in 1 Peter 4:10-11.

God’s people are generous with their treasure.

You will spend most of your time trying to make money. It will consume a lot of your time and talent. But what you plan to do with that treasure matters to God.

The Bible said, “Generous people plan to do what is generous, and they stand firm in their generosity,” in Isaiah 32:8.

It won’t happen by accident. You must plan to be generous. In fact, you’re supposed to excel at it.

The Bible said, “Since you excel in so many ways… I want you to excel also in this gracious act of giving,” in 2 Corinthians 8:7.

So, are you?

Zachary Elliott is the lead pastor of Fusion Christian Church in Temecula. For more information, visit http://www. fusionchristianchurch.com, http:// www.encouragementtoday.tv or find them on Instagram.

Fusion Christian Church Easter Celebration Events

Easter encompasses more than the symbols of the Easter Bunny and eggs; it holds profound significance. It represents the most pivotal event in history – the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

March Easter Series, daily at 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.

Family Picture Day, Sunday, March 24. Take family pictures with the Easter Bunny.

Easter Egg Hunt, Sunday, March 31. During each of our services, we have something special in store for your little ones, from infants to 5th graders.

Easter Day Services, Sunday, March 31, at 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.

For more information, visit http://fusionchristianchurch.com/ easter. Fusion Christian Church is located at 26700 Ynez Court, in Temecula.

n

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LIVE AT PALA CASINO SPA & GOLF RESORT

Lea Salonga

Showtime: 8PM

$85/$65/$45

APRIL 19

Nirvana & Green Day

Tribute

APRIL 12

Selena Tribute

by Anything for Salinas

Showtime: 8PM

General Admission $25

by Smells Like Nirvana & NOT.GREENDAY

Showtime: 8PM

General Admission • $25

APRIL 20

Morgan Wallen

Tribute

by 7 Summers

APRIL 26

Showtime: 8PM • $25

Michael Jackson

Tribute by This Was It

Showtime: 8PM • $25

Bruno Mars

Tribute by 24K Magic!

Showtime: 8PM · $25