Valley News - March 29, 2024

Kim

Canyon Lake, City Manager agree to part ways

The City of Canyon Lake and its City Manager, Nicole Dailey, have agreed to part ways following Dailey’s being placed on administrative leave March 14, Valley News has learned.

Dailey’s resignation will be effective March 31, the city of Canyon Lake announced in a news release.

Dailey was appointed as City Manager March 1, 2023, and “has since contributed significantly to the community’s well-being,” the city said in the news release.

The Friday Flyer broke the news of Dailey being placed on administrative leave in its Friday, March

22 edition saying the city would “not comment” on the reasons why Dailey was placed on leave.

“The reasons for the action and how long it will take to get through the process of making a decision about Nicole’s future with the city were not released due to the city’s policy of not discussing personnel issues,” The Friday Flyer said.

In the news release issued Monday, March 25, Mayor Dale Welty expressed the City Council’s appreciation to Dailey.

“We are sincerely thankful for Ms. Dailey’s dedication, hard work, and service to both the residents and staff of Canyon Lake,” Welty said. “Nicole has

EVMWD’s Splash Into Spring event delivers

family fun for everyone

Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District’s annual Annual

into Spring Event featured a plethora of family fun activities designed to teach attendees about the process EVMWD uses to treat more than 5.5 million gallons of sewer water per day.

The free event, held Saturday, March 23 from 9 a.m. until noon at EVMWD headquarters, 31315 Chaney Street in Lake Elsinore, showcased water reliability, conservation, and treatment through interactive displays.

Those in attendance at the annual open house event also learned about the construction and maintenance of more than 700 miles of pipeline throughout the EVMWD service area and how to save water

Valley News

Kim Harris Special To Valley News

Splash

Canyon Lake City Manager Nicole Dailey, pictured here at the 2023

SRCAR Breakfast with City Managers, has resigned her position with the city effective March 31.

Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District employee Bob Hartwig

Southwest County Riverside Presidential Primary Vote tally as of March 21

Arson investigation leads to arrest

The Riverside County Registrar of Voters as of March 21 gave these presidential and local vote counts showing the leaders and next runner ups of the southwest Riverside County primary races thus far. It shows 42 out of 42 voting precincts in Riverside County have been turned in and counted. There were 407,876 ballots counted at this time with 365,846 done by mail and 35,576 in person voters in the 4,033 precincts. In Riverside County there are 1,327,182 registered voters with the turnout for this Presidential Primary at 30.07%

President

The Registrar of Voters noted: “Vote counting continues and results are not final. There are estimated less than 1,300 Vote-byMail ballots, unprocessed ballots that are damaged and require duplication or require further review

Joe Biden (Democratic) with 140,083 votes (89.44%)

Marrianne Wilson (Democratic) with 5,482 votes

Donald Trump (Republican) with 151.979 votes (85.17%)

Nikki Haley (Republican) with 21,588

US Short Term Senator

Steve Garvey (Republican) 173,303 votes (44.74%)

Adam B. Schiff (Democratic) 102,053 votes (26.35%)

US Senator

Steve Garvey (Republican) 161,870 votes (42.07%)

Adam B. Schiff (Democrat) 106,582 votes (27.70%)

US Representative 25th District

Raul Ruiz (Democrat) 38,658 votes (47.42%)

Ian M. Weeks (Republican) 16,929 votes (20.76%)

US Representative 35th District

Mark Cargile (Republican) 2,949 votes (47.63%)

Norma J. Torres (Democrat) 2,419 votes (39.07%)

US Representative 39th District

Mark Takano (Democrat) 48,155 votes (55.51%)

David Serpa (Republican) 38,595 (44.49%)

US Representative 40th District

Young Kim (Republican) 1,165 votes (60.59%)

Joe Kerr (Democrat) 551 votes (28.65%)

US Representative 41st District

Ken Calvert (Republican) 85,692 votes (53.03%)

Will Rollins (Democrat) 62,109 votes (39.43%)

US Representative 48th District

Darrell Issa (Republican) 33,100 votes (66.29%)

Whitney Shananhan (Democrat) 8,119 votes (15.28%)

State Senator 19th District

Lisa Middleton (Democrat) 56,257 votes (53.27%)

Rosilicie Ochoa-Bogh (Republican) 49,350 votes (46.73%)

remain to be processed. There are less than 700 Conditional Voter Registration (CVR) ballots that we continue to research and process. The day shift will continue to work on these ballots on Monday, March 25.” The updated results may come in at 6 p.m. that day. The Valley News will give any updates in the next regular issue.

State Senator 31st District

Cynthia Navarro (Republican) 45,899 votes (45.95%)

Sabrina Cervantes (Democrat) 39,243 votes (39.28%)

State Assembly Races top vote receivers

36th District (Republican) Jeff Gonzalez

47th District (Democrat) Christy Holstege

58th District (Republican) Leticia Castillo

60th District (Democrat) Corey A. Jackson

63rd District (Republican) Bill Essayli

71st District (Republican) Kate Sanchez Judge of the Superior Court #4

Gerald Pfohl

Riverside County Board of Education TA 4

Bruce Dennis 43,433 votes (91.02%)

Sergei Vinkov 4,285 votes (8.98%)

Riverside County Board of Education TA 7

Jennifer M. Pham 31,108 votes (56.26%)

Mailha Williamson 24,190 (43.74%)

Riverside County Board of Supervisors District 1

Richard D. Roth 17,672 votes (31.70%)

Joe Medina 12,986 votes (24.82%)

Riverside County Board of Supervisors District 3

Chuck Washington 49,092 (53.33%)

Jonathan Ingram 24,582 (26,71%)

Proposition 1 Behavioral Health Portions of SB 326 and AB 531

No 201,269 votes (53.57%)

Yes 174,449 votes ((46.43%)

Measure B City of Riverside Cannabis Business Tax

Yes 27,170 votes

No 17,021 votes

Information taken from RivCoNOW on March 23 and written by Valley News staff.

MURRIETA - Friday, March

15, at approximately 4:03 p.m.,

Murrieta Fire & Rescue engines were dispatched to the area near Clearview Street and Whitewood Road, regarding a brush fire. The reporting party advised there were “several fires” in the fields near a residential area and had observed an unknown subject settng the fires.

Upon arrival, Murrieta Fire & Rescue firefighters quickly extinguished the fires and the Murrieta Police Department officers established a perimeter around a large parcel of land of where the subject was last seen running.

This area is further described as having overgrown brush, surrounded by residential homes, and properly marked as the Riverside County Wildlife Conservation Area. The Riverside County Wildlife Conservation Area is an area that has been set aside for the protection of native plants and animals.

Members of the Murrieta Police Department Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Team responded and assisted with the search to possibly locate the suspect. While on scene, the UAS drone operator observed a subject crawling in the heavy brush in what appeared to be an attempt to conceal himself. The subject matched the description of the suspect. A “Search Team” was identified and the UAS drone operator directed the officers to where the subject was hiding. He was detained pending further

exemplified a commendable level of integrity and professionalism. As a dedicated public servant, she has a promising future, and we extend our best wishes for her continued success.”

According to the news release, the city of Canyon Lakes cited “the evolving priorities of the City Council moved forward,” as the reason for Dailey’s placement on administrative leave and subsequent resignation.

“It became clear that a new direction was necessary for both the City Manager’s role and the Council’s vision,” the city said. “This mutual understanding has led to the decision that a change in leadership serves the best interest of all parties involved.”

investigation. This area was again searched for any possible additional subjects who may have been involved, however, no additional people were found.

Murrieta Police Department detectives and investigators from Murrieta Fire & Rescue responded to the scene to assist in the investigation. MFR Fire Investigator Mike Macalinao shared, “Murrieta Fire & Rescue Fire Investigators confirmed that multiple fires were intentionally set, and no additional details will be released at this time.”

Based upon the evidence obtained at the scene and the totality of the circumstances of this investigation, the suspect, identified as Francisco Villanueva (35-yearold), listed as “Transient”, was placed under arrest for 451(C) California Penal Code – Arson (x5) and 148(a)(1) California Penal Code – Resist, Delay, or Obstruct Justice. Mr. Villanueva is currently being housed at the Cois Byrd Detention Center, pending further court proceedings.

On Tuesday, March 19, this case was presented to the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office, where the above charges were formally filed. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact Detective Kris Spencer at (951) 461-6404 or KSpencer@MurrietaCA.gov or Sergeant Miguel Garcia at (951) 461-6362 or Mgarcia@MurrietaCA.gov

Submitted by Murrieta Police Department.

grateful for the warm welcome, the opportunity provided by the Council, and the unwavering support from our exceptional city staff.”

According to the news release, under Dailey’s leadership, Canyon Lake “achieved notable milestones including the acquisition of its first fire station, establishment of the first collective bargaining unit, a significant increase in reserves, enhanced communication with the Canyon Lake Property Owners Association, and the implementation of policies aimed at prioritizing community service while ensuring financial sustainability.”

Dailey said she has always been passionate about “contributing to communities where citizens and businesses thrive and feel a sense of pride.”

According to the release Dailey said that Canyon Lake City Council’s” innovative and forward-thinking approach” was “admirable.”

“While I have cherished my role within this vibrant community, it has become apparent that a new alignment is needed to best serve the evolving goals of Canyon Lake,” she said. “I am profoundly

“I hold nothing but the highest hopes for the City Council as they navigate this new path, and I look forward to continuing my service in public administration,” she said.

Dailey’s contract with the city was set to run until February 2026.

Administrative Services Director Mike Borja will act as acting city manager.

For more on this story, visit www.myvalleynews.com.

participating. Their parents and grandparents smiled and watched on the sidelines with their cameras and smartphones recording the memorable event.

Almost simultaneously at Wildomar’s Marna O’Brien Park, hundreds of children from ages 1 to 9 plus collected over 10,000 plastic eggs, some with the help of their Easter Bunny friend who wasn’t even out of breath from his city to city jumps.

In Murrieta children also had time to show off their dancing and entertainment skills in front of the Town Square Amphitheater while the Easter Bunny watched from the stage, giving out high fives and hopping in joy for other young visitors. The dancing and entertainment at the Murrieta Spring Fest and egg hunt was a part of the Murrieta Recreation Department’s Expo, where they shared information about their many annual Spring and Summer programs for children and adults.

Recreation and sport vendors stood by to explain their programs, alongside the many city programs. They included Miss April’s Dance studio, Valley-Wide Elite Gymnastics, Skyhawks, Gryphon Fencing, Vidal Kenpo Karate, the Creative Touch, Music for Young Children, Soccer Saints along with Celine’s Cuisine, Cane’s Chicken Fingers and Sam’s Club.

Nearby in the park to quench the childrens’ and parents’ hunger and thirst were Esther’s Burritos, Tikiz Shaved Ice, Cali Porker Barbecue, Kelly’s Toffee and Indulge Coffee.

The City of Wildomar’s city

council members with Mayor Bridgette Moore, Mayor Pro Tem Ashlee DePhillippo, Joseph Morabito and Carlos Marquez joined the Wildomar Beautification Group, Riverside County Library officials and volunteers to place the plastic eggs and moderate the many activities for children. There were bounce houses, breakfast donuts, CR&R, Boy Scout Troop 2011 and Angel View to support the children and parents during the special Wildomar Eggstravaganza at the Park.

Even more exciting for many of the Wildomar children was the opportunity to find one of a number of golden plastic eggs offering special prizes and gift certificates in 10 larger eggs. It could be said, “There was more than one egg in every child’s basket.”

Another highlight for the many adults in attendance was watching siblings and friends help each other in unselfishly finding and sharing the prized eggs.

Both cities offered pre-Easter egg hunts as an opportunity for very young children and youngsters with special needs to be included in the fun day. Even a few adults had a chance to pick up and enjoy any leftover eggs.

One Wildomar city volunteer, who had his children at the event, mused that there was a lesson for the children at the Eggstravaganza, saying on the microphone, “Children, do the same in picking up your rooms,” bringing a round of applause and cheers from many parents attending.

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

EASTER from page A-1

Stella Mendilla, 1, meets the Easter Bunny during the City of Murrieta’s Spring Eggstravaganza event at Town Square Park, March 23. Valley News/Shane Gibson photo

[Right] Disney characters Anna and Elsa from Frozen greet young guests attending the Murrieta Spring Eggstravaganza.

Valley News/Shane Gibson photo

Members of Miss April’s Dance perform for guests attending the Murrieta Spring Eggstravaganza. Valley News/Shane Gibson photo

Andres Ortiz, 3, grabs an Easter egg in the grass at Town Square Park during the Murrieta Spring Eggstravaganza. Valley News/Shane Gibson photo

Children prepare to race onto the field for eggs at Town Square Park during the Murrieta Spring Eggstravaganza.

Valley News/Shane Gibson photo

Kashton Sellery, 3, shows off his bucket of Easter eggs at the Murrieta Spring Eggstravaganza. Valley News/Shane Gibson photo

Murrieta Mayor Lori Stone helps distribute Easter eggs for children at the Murrieta Spring Eggstravaganza. Valley News/Shane Gibson photo

The Easter Bunny anxiously awaits children’s visits on the Murrieta Town Square Stage March 23 during the city’s Spring Fest and Recreation Expo. Valley News/Tony Ault photo

This little boy could be asking, “Why do I have to be in the second group to get my eggs?” during the Murrieta Spring Fest children’s egg hunt event. Valley News/Tony Ault photo

The Easter Bunny helps and watches the children at Wildomar’s Marna O’Brien Park gather up thousands of plastic eggs containing sweet treats and tiny toys. Valley News/Tony Ault photo

These youngsters at the Willdomar Eggstravaganza don’t have to look far to find the prized plastic eggs containing sweet treats and toys. Valley News/Tony Ault photo

Wildomar Mayor Pro Tem Ashlee DePhillippo watches as the Easter Bunny and a volunteer throw out some of the thousands of plastic eggs for children attending the Wildomar Eggstravaganza at Marna O’Brien Park. Valley News/Tony Ault photo

Wildomar Mayor Bridgette Moore and Mayor Pro Tem Ashlee DePhillippo confer with members of the Wildomar City Beautification Team to conduct the Eggstravaganza Event at Marna O’Brien City Park March 23. Valley News/Tony Ault photo

We are sad to announce the passing of Phyllis Therese Ontkean of Temecula. She died at the age of 103 on Feb. 11, 2024, after a long and happy life. Phyllis was born in Vancouver, Canada, immigrated to the U.S., raising her family in Downey, Calif. She worked at Rancho Los Amigos Hospital for 30 years and after retiring, moved to Temecula, Calif.

Phyllis was predeceased by Orville Ontkean, her husband for more than 50 years. She is survived by seven children and spouses, 12 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

A private celebration of her life will be held with only close family members attending.

EMWD approves MND for Washington Street Transmission Main Project

Joe Naiman

Wrter

The Eastern Municipal Water District board approved the environmental Mitigated Negative Declaration for the Washington Street Transmission Main Project.

The EMWD board voted 4-0 March 20, with Stephen Corona absent, to approve the MND. The action also approves the Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program and approves the project in principle, although contracts for the project will be authorized at a future board meeting.

The Washington Street Transmission Main Project involves installing approximately 6,400 linear feet of 18-inch diameter potable water main in Winchester. The pipeline would provide improved distribution capacity and improved operations for the recently-approved Belle Terre Water Storage Tank north of Fields Drive and east of the San Diego Canal. The

Washington Street Transmission Main Project would be constructed within Washington Street between Fields Drive and Abelia Avenue within existing right‐of‐way using open trench construction methods with trenchless tunneling (such as jack and bore) to be used for the drainage crossing.

The MND and the Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program were released for a 30-day public review period December 7. None of the comments received merited any changes in the significance findings of the draft MND and MMRP. Mitigation measures were identified to reduce potentially significant impacts to less-than-significant levels for biological resources, geology and soils, noise, and cultural and tribal resources. No significant unavoidable impacts would result from the project construction or operation.

Joe Naiman can be reached at jnaiman@reedermedia.com.

Murrieta City Council hears about 2024 RCTC Traffic Relief Plan

Tony Ault Staff Writer

An explanation of the Riverside County Transportation Commission 2024 Traffic Relief Plan proposition brought before the Murrieta City Council Tuesday, March 19, ended in the support of the plan with a contingency to make Murrieta’s proposed I-15/Keller Road Interchange a priority if passed.

RCTC’s administrative staff has been visiting each southwestern Riverside County city seeking their support in placing the newer 2024 Traffic Relief Proposition on the November General Election Ballot.

At this time the plan is “unfunded” as retiring RCTC General Manager Anne Mayer explained to the fivemember city council on that night.

She said the proposed new Traffic Relief Plan may require county voters to approve a one cent county sales tax by a two-thirds majority. She indicated nothing at this time in the new TRP projects has been approved by the RCTC Board, but it will be reviewed again in April and May to see if it’s feasible to place it on the November ballot and what projects would take priority if passed.

The original sales tax revenue plan was meant to raise the $25 million needed to further improve the long-time traffic congestion problems facing Riverside County that stems from its unprecedented growth. At that time it was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting economic problems. Raising taxes at that time was not reasonable, Mayer said.

Today, she said, the traffic congestion problems, now being partially relieved by the current Interstate 15, French Valley Parkway Improvement and the Menifee Holland Drive overpass project, will still not be enough to improve the future traffic congestion in the Valley area or road and commuter rail projects in other parts of the county. Added to this, she told the council, the state of California is no longer

going to expand its freeway system in favor of a statewide high speed commuter electric rail system now underway in Northern California and perhaps years later bringing it into Southern California.

Mayer outlined a number of projects now underway or coming, including the I-15 Keller Road in Murrieta and the I-215 in Menifee at Garbani Road, road maintenance, traffic management systems and safety improvements. She also said the TRP would help in the realignment of SR-79 Elsinore Ethanac expressway and expand the rapid/ commuter services to southwest Riverside County. Outside of the western Riverside County there are two other geographical areas that would be using the new TRP including the Coachella Valley and the Blythe areas.

Mayer said the residents they have surveyed so far, show that 65% of all county residents favor a one-cent sales tax with about 62% favoring it in the western Riverside County area. The TRP survey is continuing to gather the data of the desires of the residents in all areas.

Murrieta Mayor Lori Stone and other members of the city council agreed that the current area projects still will not reduce the future traffic congestion in Murrieta and the surrounding cities. The current Temecula and Menifee projects would most likely even increase the traffic congestion problems in the future unless some other RCTC and other state and federal agencies are designated and funded

for local highway improvements. Stone did not see any way out of it, but the planned 1-15/Keller Road Interchange would help and become a priority which is at this time unfunded.

A question arose about how Murrieta and the other cities in southwest Riverside County could help forward the 2024 TRP since it would be the voters who would finally approve or disapprove the measure if on the ballot. Mayer suggested the best way for the councils to help would be to stay in contact with all the state and federal elected representatives from Riverside seeking their support for funding or grants to help forward the new traffic relief plan and to encourage their residents to participate in the survey now underway at the http://Trafficreliefplan.org, http://rctc.org or trafficreliefplan@ rctc.org to provide their input on the ambitious, but necessary plan to help relieve traffic congestion in the area.

The Murrieta Council did approve a $1.834,612.50 contract to ONYX Paving Company to rehabilitate the Clinton Keith and Date Street roadways.

Up dates were heard from the Public Works, Community Services, Finance and Public Information department directors.

Earlier that afternoon the council held a workshop to update the city’s Code Enforcement goals, processes and statistics.

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

Murrieta PD to stop using LEGO heads to cover suspect faces

Kim Harris Special To Valley News

Murrieta PD will stop adding digital toy heads on suspects’ faces, something it had been doing to comply with a state law protecting offenders’ rights, after the LEGO company asked them to refrain from using its intellectual property on the department’s social media, it was reported late last week.

“The LEGO Group reached out to us and respectfully asked us to refrain from using their intellectual property in our social media content which of course we understand and will comply with,” police spokesman Lt. Jeremy Durrant told Fox News Digital.

The request came after the department posted a photo on social media last week as part of an explanation as to why they covered suspects’ faces. The photo showed a fake line-up of “suspects” with their faces hidden by the yellow heads.

social media after 14 days unless special circumstances exist.

“The Murrieta Police Department prides itself in its transparency with the community, but also honors everyone’s rights & protections as afforded by law; even suspects,” Murrieta Police said in the Facebook post explaining the new law.

“In order to share what is happening in Murrieta, we chose to cover the faces of suspects to protect their identity while still aligning with the new law.”

But the decision to cover suspects’ faces with the LEGO head showing a variety of facial expressions including crying, frowning and just plain mad, apparently wasn’t something the toy giant found funny.

Much to the amusement of its social media followers, Murrieta Police has been obscuring suspect’s faces in photos accompanying their oftentimes humorous posts in various ways, including with emojis, Ba rbie Dolls and even cartoon characters, for the past few years, but now the use of the LEGO heads will become a thing of the past.

The new law, Assembly Bill 994 & Penal Code 13665, which took effect Jan. 1, restricts how and when law enforcement agencies in California share suspect photos and mugshots, prohibiting law enforcement from sharing suspect photos for nonviolent crimes, unless specified circumstances exist.

The law also requires agencies to remove suspect mugshots from

“We are currently exploring other methods to continue publishing our content in a way that is engaging and interesting to our followers,” Durrant said.

As of press time, LEGO had not responded to Valley New’s request for comment.

A Murrieta Police Department photo showing a line-up of suspects with their faces obscured with LEGO faces in a variety of expressions, caught the attention of the toy giant who asked the department to stop adding toy heads on suspects’ faces.

Valley News/ Murrieta Police photo. Used with permission.

SPLASH from page A-1

with a more water efficient home. They also were able to see the daily work at the water district through a variety of demonstrations and interactive displays. Activities included fixing a leaky water main, performing a valve exercise, self-guided waterwise garden tours and more. Attendees were also able to take a tour of EVMWD’s sewage treatment plant to see how wastewater becomes recycled water. Local landscape and irrigation

experts as well as UCCE Riverside County Master Gardeners were on hand to answer questions about outdoor irrigation, California friendly plants, gardening, and water-saving appliances and devices.

Kid-friendly activities, including a construction experience with child sized back hoes and climb in big equipment, along with an Easter egg hunt added to the fun.

For more information on EVMWD’s conservation efforts, visit https://evmwd.com

Children play on a variety of attractions during the EVMWD Splash Into Spring event. Valley News/Shane Gibson photos

Emiliano Lopez, 5, slides into a dirt pile during the EVMWD Splash Into Spring event.

Brianna Wedge, 7, walks through a large tube during the EVMWD Splash Into Spring event.

EVMWD employee Steven Garcia uses a model to demonstrate how water is distributed and treated for the public.

March 29 – April 4, 2024

Leprechauns bring lots of green to Soboba Tribal Preschool

Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians Special to Valley News

The Soboba Tribal Preschool on the Soboba Indian Reservation was full of shamrocks, leprechauns, rainbows and all things green as the youngsters celebrated St. Patrick’s Day Friday, March 15. Since they were also celebrating a culmination of Dr. Seuss week, “Green Eggs and Ham” was read and discussed in each classroom.

The youngest preschoolers did some creative finger painting on paper plates using green to represent green eggs and orange as ham. After hearing the Seuss story, they were asked what they thought it would taste like. Answers ranged from “plants” to “just weird” and most said they wouldn’t eat it.

Like the other classes, Lucky Charms cereal was utilized quite a bit for several fun activities that also taught important lessons to the children. The youngest students filled in the letters of their printed names with the cereal shapes and all of them were encouraged to wear something green to celebrate the holiday.

Pre-K students were also welcoming springtime with a billboard stating “We are blooming” surrounded by colorful flowers created by the students. After interacting with a read-along story on the big screen about catching a leprechaun, they were asked if they thought they could catch one, unlike the unsuccessful main character in the story. Azalea MacDonald said she runs very fast and could catch him, while Notoowish Velazquez said, “I run fast like Sonic (the Hedgehog).”

Activities for the day included instructional aide Julissa Garcia teaching them how to make a shamrock hat with pieces of different shades of green construction

paper they had to tear into little pieces and glue onto a clover cutout. Using different colored Froot Loops, instructional aide Elena Arambula had the children string together a rainbow necklace after sorting the cereal circles by color.

Pre-K teacher Ana Garcia worked with students to sort, count and chart their findings on a graph using, you guessed it, Lucky Charms.

Kindergartners enjoyed many different treats, creatively curated by instructional aide Mayra Campos. They included Good Luck cucumber slices, Pot of Gold applesauce cups, Leprechaun lime Jello cups, Over the Rainbow cupcakes, green Shamrock lemonade and Shamrock kabobs made from honeydew melon chunks, green grapes and kiwi fruit pieces. They were also given a take-home treat with the message, “You’re the pot of gold at the end of my rainbow.”

Using Lucky Charms cereal pieces, teacher Laura Aldrete guided her students to sort and match marshmallow shapes to the ones on their worksheets and then count up each one and write the amount on their papers. The exercise also allowed them to learn about the concept of less and more as they compared their charts to those of their classmates since all of them had different amounts for each shape.

Earlier that morning, the children had made rainbow hats with cutouts of leprechauns and shamrocks they had colored.

Friday also marked the end of a weeklong Scholastic Book Fair. Preschool director Benita Torres said the drive was very successful with lots of parents buying popular titles for their children to have at home. A percentage of book sales is returned to the school that allows them to purchase books for classrooms to be enjoyed year-round.

Kindergartner Ignacio Alcala goes all out to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with his Soboba Tribal Preschool classmates Friday, March 15. Valley News/Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians photos

Pre-K instructional aide Elena Arambula of Soboba Tribal Preschool works with students on making rainbow necklaces during an all-day St. Patrick’s Day celebration.

Nehsoon Salas counts her Lucky Charms to complete a sorting and counting activity in her kindergarten class at Soboba Tribal Preschool.

Preschoolers in Lenora “Ponie” Mojado’s class enjoy free time while wearing green, the color of the week.

Lots of festive snacks await kindergarten students as they celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.

San Jacinto Valley students honored in March

Diane A. Rhodes

Special to Valley News

The Hemet/San Jacinto Student of the Month program held its final recognition breakfast of the 2023-2024 school year at the Maze Stone at Soboba Springs Golf Course Thursday, March 14.

Seven local high school seniors were recognized and honored for their character, love of learning and commitment to academics in addition to their involvement in school and community activities and their ability to overcome difficult life circumstances. And they do this all in a setting that honors God, country, family, community and free enterprise. Students are nominated by teachers or other school personnel for making a difference in their homes, schools and communities.

San Jacinto Unified School District Board of Trustees member John Norman, who is also a longtime supporter of the program, served as emcee. Backpacks filled with gifts, a Student of the Month award, certificates of recognition and much more were donated by community sponsors to the award recipients.

Each student 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 from Hemet Unified School District are Calvin Brown, Cayman Crayton, Emilio Francisco, Kevin Gomez and Sayra Navarro. San Jacinto Unified’s honorees for March are Michael Barranco Rivas and Lea Hope Raven Edwards.

Hemet Unified School District

Calvin Brown

Hemet High School Activities Director Lindsay Brown said that although Calvin Brown has faced many challenges, “He has chosen to remain kind, respectful and focused on his future and to take care of the people around him.”

Director Brown asked, “When you think of a parent, what is the first thing that comes to your mind?”

He said while many think of love, trust and comfort, it is important to acknowledge that not every household is filled with those traits.

“I happen to be the victim of a home filled with mental trauma,” Calvin said.

From losing his mother to cancer at a young age, suffering from a life-threatening injury, dealing with an absent father figure and being classified as a homeless student within the district, he admits to having his fair share of tribulations. Brown has been a member of the AFJROTC program at Hemet High School since his freshman year and said he identifies it as his first real home. Through the program he has already earned 160 community service hours.

“Helping others is what changed my perspective and I want to show others that through resilience and relentlessness, anything and everything is achievable,” he said.

Cayman Crayton

Western Center Academy chose to honor Crayton, and English and theater teacher Joshua Brady shared that she has won first place in acting competitions against top Los Angeles area schools and was recognized statewide by the California Educational Theatre Association.

“She’s also an amazing student,” he said.

Crayton attended the school since sixth grade.

“An important lesson that I was taught about is independence but also the strength of reaching out when help is needed,” she said.

Her mother immigrated to America from El Salvador and raised Crayton as a single parent.

“Her independence inspired me to try to handle things on my own,” Crayton said.

When she found herself overwhelmed in high school her mother let her know that she didn’t have to do everything on her own and that helped Crayton learn to emotionally rely on others.

“Independence allows me to take on challenges, but I also learned from my mother the ability to acknowledge my vulnerability and hardships and ask for help when needed,” she said.

Emilio Francisco

Tahquitz High School Principal

Andrew Holmes introduced Francisco as a student who participates in many extracurricular activities and enjoys his digital media, AVID and English classes.

English teacher Molly Otis said, “Even though Emilio has experienced tragic hardship, he has pressed on and learned skills to make his life as best as possible.”

Francisco said, “I believe my greatest contribution to everyone is being a drummer; the type of music I play is Mexican music

and I love playing. Playing an instrument feels really good in my heart because I know people really enjoy it.”

He plans to attend California State Polytechnic University to major in business and eventually earn his real estate license so he can make people’s dreams of purchasing their own home come true. When he was nine, Francisco also lost his father to cancer. It led to depression, but he said the rest of his family really helped him through that tough time.

“You just have to learn to accept it and move forward,” he said. “The most significant life lesson I will take to college is patience; having patience is a key to all things.”

Kevin Gomez

Hamilton High School Principal

Kari Sanchez said that Gomez arrived in his junior year as a newcomer English learner from Mexico and quickly became a shining star on campus. His English L anguage Development teacher Josh Martin said Gomez is always excited to talk about literature and even tackles Shakespeare.

Gomez said, “There are obstacles everywhere in life. In my case, language was my biggest obstacle. I came to the United States speaking only Spanish but for me it was motivational.”

He said he knew he wanted to go to college, so he enrolled in Advanced Placement English in his first year at Hamilton to challenge himself and to prepare for college.

“I think if you put your mind into it, anything is possible and I’m proof of that,” Gomez said. His aunt said she has been inspired by her nephew’s remarkable journey and as she reflects on his journey so far, she is overwhelmed with pride.

Sayra Navarro

West Valley High School Principal Gerardo Zavala introduced Navarro as a student who has been a motivational influence on her peers and her teachers.

“She uses life’s challenges as her motivation to work harder and to achieve her personal and academic goals,” Zavala said. “She tutors friends in math, she loves history and animals, and volunteers at a local animal shelter.”

Navarro said, “I think my greatest contribution to my school/ community and the thing I’ve been most proud of has been the club I co-founded called Student Resources.”

The program created small cubbies inside the English classrooms, stocked with hygiene products, school supplies and snacks for students who need it. Navarro was accepted at University of California Irvine where she plans to major in psychology with a minor in American Sign Language that she can implement into her future career as a clinical social worker.

San Jacinto Unified School District

Michael Barranco Rivas

Mountain View High School Principal Ken Swanson said Rivas has made a big impact at the school in the short time he has been there. His teacher Valorie Evans said he is one of her most diligent students. She said she often tells her students, “Your ‘I will’ has to be greater than your IQ.”

She said Rivas is very independent and forgiving.

“I think my greatest contribution is always lending a helping hand to others, cleaning up the environment and assisting others on tasks that are difficult to do alone,” Rivas said.

He plans to attend Mt. San Jacinto College with a goal to work

in construction, landscaping or plumbing.

“When my sister and I were young and lived with my mom we experienced many difficult challenges that no children should experience,” Rivas said. “I think the most significant life lesson that I would take to college is that if I fail, I can always try again and keep moving forward.”

Lea Hope Raven Edwards

San Jacinto High School’s Christine Thomas teaches AP Human Ge ography and is the National Honor Society adviser. She said of this month’s honoree Edwards, “We call her Hope and it’s certainly a perfect name for this young lady because hope radiates from her. Through all her obstacles, she has always had hope.”

Edward said the biggest obstacle she has faced is the loss of her father to Parkinson’s disease in February 2020.

“Before his diagnosis, my dad was the most lively person I knew but the disease quickly reduced him to an immobile state and by the time I was in seventh grade my family had become his full-time caregivers,” Edwards said. “Since his passing, I have become dedicated to applying the same loving energy I had for my dad into the betterment of my community.” She works as an activities assistant at a nursing home, and this has nurtured her passion to pursue pediatric nursing as a career.

“I made a plan for myself, and I plan to carry it out,” Edwards said. This year’s Student of the Year scholarship dinner will be held May 16 at the Soboba Casino Resort Event Center.

For more information, visit http://www.studentofthemonth.net

Recipients of the Hemet/San Jacinto Student of the Month award for March are, from left, Kevin Gomez, Emilio Francisco, Cayman Crayton, Calvin Brown, Lea Hope Raven Edwards, Michael Barranco Rivas and Sayra Navarro. Valley News/StylePhotography by Alex Tapia photo

Van Avery Prep student wins regional Zaner-Bloser National Handwriting Contest

COLUMBUS, OH - After receiving thousands of submissions from across the United States, 28 Regional Winners of the ZanerBloser National Handwriting Contest have been named. The winners come from 19 states and represent grades K-6. Regional Winners represent four regions of the U.S., and each student will receive an engraved medallion in recognition of their achievement. Arjan Sandhu from Van Avery Preparatory School in Temecula won the first grade category for the West region. As the most recognized handwriting contest in the U.S., the Zaner-Bloser National Handwriting Contest has been celebrat -

ing the best in manuscript and cursive penmanship for 33 years. Since1991, more than 2.5 million students have participated in the contest.

“Every year we receive so many incredible submissions, and we wanted to acknowledge students’ hard work with a title that truly reflects the high level of competition,” said Lisa Carmona, ZanerBloser president. “It was obvious that all of our regional winners put in a lot of Ame and effort to master this skillset, and they deserve recognition for their tenacity.”

Students who participate in the competition also profit from the numerous cognitive benefits linked to writing by hand. The handwriting process has been proven to engage more of the brain than the act of typing, provide better recall, and help younger students recognize letters more quickly as they learn to read and write. All contestants wrote the sentence “The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog” because it includes the entire alphabet. Judges selected winners for each level based on Zaner-Bloser’s Four

Keys to Legibility: the shape, size, spacing, and slant of the letters. To enter the contest, students had to first compete among their classmates. Participating private and public schools selected their own winners who then advanced to regional judging. Grand National Champions will be selected from that pool and announced at the beginning of April alongside Nicholas Maxim Winners, an award that recognizes students with cognitive, intellectual, physical, and/or developmental disabilities.

Submitted by Zaner-Bloser.

Jennifer Stackhouse inducted into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi

BATON ROUGE, La. – Jen -

TURLOCK – California State University Stanislaus congratulated more than 2,000 students who were named to the fall 2023 dean’s list, including Sophie Christopher of Winchester, Kaitlin Dykes of Murrieta and Andrea Gonzales of Menifee.

California State University Stanislaus serves a diverse student body of more than 10,000 at two locations in the Central Valley – a 228-acre campus in Turlock and

the Stockton Campus, located in the city’s historic Magnolia District. Widely recognized for its dedicated faculty and highquality academic programs, the university offers 43 majors, 41 minors and more than 100 areas of concentration, along with 16 master’s degree programs, seven credential programs and a doctorate in educational leadership.

Submitted by California State University Stanislaus.

nifer Stackhouse of Temecula was recently initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation’s oldest and most selective all-discipline collegiate honor society. Stackhouse was initiated at University of Idaho. Stackhouse is among approximately 25,000 students, faculty, professional staff and alumni to be initiated into Phi Kappa Phi each year. Membership is by invitation only and requires nomination and

approval by a chapter. Only the top 10% of seniors and 7.5% of juniors are eligible for membership. Graduate students in the top 10% of the number of candidates for graduate degrees may also qualify, as do faculty, professional staff and alumni who have achieved scholarly distinction. Phi Kappa Phi was founded in 1897 under the leadership of undergraduate student Marcus L. Urann who desired to create a different kind of honor society: one

that recognized excellence in all academic disciplines. Today, the society has chapters on more than 325 campuses in the United States, its territories and the Philippines. Its mission is “to recognize and promote academic excellence in all fields of higher education and to engage the community of scholars in service to others.”

For more information about Phi Kappa Phi, visit http://www. phikappaphi.org.

Submitted by Phi Kappa Phi.

Arjan Sandhu, a first grade student at Van Avery Preparatory School in Temecula won his category for the West region of the Zaner Bloser National Handwriting Contest.

Arjan Sandhu’s entry for the Zaner-Bloser National Handwriting Contest. Valley News/Courtesy photos

Find something to do!

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

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

CHILDREN’S EVENTS

March 30 – 8:30-10:30 a.m.

Menifee Easter Egg Hunt will commence at Wheatfield Park, 30627 Menifee Road, in Menifee.

March 30 – 9 a.m. Easter Egg Hunt takes place at Rancho Bella Vista Park, 31757 Browning St., in French Valley for children 12 and under in a Valley-Wide 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 offers two sessions at the Valley-Wide Recreation’s Menifee Gym, 28545 La Piedra Road, in Menifee. Call 951-6726744 for more information.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

March 28 – 3:30-6:30 p.m. Art Show at the Hemet Public Library, 300 E. Latham St., will celebrate the work of EXCEED Program participants from the “Art in the Park” sessions in a free public event, and all are welcome.

March 28 – 10 a.m. Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans reception will host a formal ceremony at 10:30 a.m. at Paloma Valley High School, 31375 Bradley Road, in Menifee.

March 31 – 6:30 a.m. Easter Sunrise Service at the Ramona Bowl in Hemet is 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 4 – 7:30 p.m. Jazz pianist Ben Rosenblum will appear at the Merc, 42051 Main St., in Temecula. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for students. Visit https://jazzatthemerc.com/

event/5368701/664984915/benrosenblum-sextet.

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.

April 13 – 11 a.m.-3 p.m. The Menifee Multicultural Festival at Underwood Park, 28251 Rouse Road, in Menifee will feature family friendly dancing exhibitions, children’s activities, food and craft vendors, highlighting cultural diversity and traditional heritage.

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, in Temecula. The free event will showcase live music, dancing, special performances and fun activities for the entire family.

ONGOING – Saturdays, 8 a.m. to noon. The Sun City Farmers Market meets every Saturday at the Sun City Civic Association at 26850 Sun City Blvd., in Sun City with 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

Crossword Puzzle

Theme: Shakespeare

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 951674-2159

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 800-510-2020 for help.

ONGOING – The Riverside County COVID-19 Business Assistance Grant Program is accepting online applications for business grants up to $10,000 at http://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 29 – 10 a.m.to 4 p.m. The opening of the MSJC Art Gallery’s, California Family Life Center and Worth Visual Art presents an Art, Recognition, Transition, Education, Reciprocation, Youth 2024 The Eclipse Project – Nature & Nurturing exhibit at 1499 N. State St. Building 1400, in San Jacinto. Visit http://www. msjc.edu/artgallery for details or contact Jknuth@msjc.edu through

April 18.

March 29 – Monthly Temecula

Arts Night meets on the last Friday of each month at The Lot at the Merc, 42051 Main St., in 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.

April 11 – 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

MSJC Menifee is holding a Career Fair at the Menifee Valley Campus in jobs with internships, apprenticeship opportunities. It’s free and open to the public. See rohill@ msjc.edu or call 951-639- 5352 for information.

April 16 – 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

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

April 27 – 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Arts Council Menifee presents the Menifee Arts Showcase at the Menifee Countryside Marketplace, Interstate 15 and Newport Road, in Menifee.

April 22 – 4-6 p.m. The Earth

Day MSJC presentation will take place atPrimal Pastures, 25391 Washington Ave, in Murrieta for a hands-on introduction to Regenerative Systems led by two MSJC associate faculty members, Chef Leah Di Bernardo and regenerative viticulturist Greg Pennyroyal. They will share the power of regenerative systems from the farm to the plate to the glass and beyond. New classes are scheduled. With limited seating, save a seat at communityeducation@msjc.edu

ONGOING – Temecula Valley Genealogical Society hosts the Family History Research Assistance Program for those interested in learning more about your family roots. The 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

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 U.S. Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard and the World War II Merchant Marines who served the country with a permanent paver. Pavers cost $185. Orders may be placed year-round and are consoli-

dated, engraved and placed on the path annually each November. For more information, visit http://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 http://www.milvet. org/military-care-packages.

ONGOING – Multiple Sclerosis Support Group Meeting meets the third Monday of each month at the Mary Phillips Senior Center, 41845 Sixth Street, in Temecula from 10 a.m. to noon. For more information, email gaugustin206@ gmail.com or join the meeting.

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 http://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 http:// 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 http://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 http://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 http://www.va.gov/homeless.

ONGOING – The Dorland Scribblers meet the second Sunday of each month from 1-3 p.m. at 36701 Highway 79 South, Temecula. We welcome fiction, non-fiction, poets, memoir and screenwriters. We host writingcraft discussions; attendees may read up to a five minute excerpt from their work for feedback/ critique. RSVP at http://www. dorlandartscolony.com/sundayscribblers.html.

Valley-Wide announces Easter egg hunts in Hemet, French Valley, Menifee

Harris Special to Valley News

Valley-Wide Recreation and Park District will celebrate spring with three free Easter egg hunts Saturday, March 30, the agency recently announced in a news release.

The three Easter egg hunts will be held in French Valley, Hemet and Menifee and are open to children 12 and younger, who must bring their own basket, ValleyWide said.

The hunt in French Valley will

be held at Rancho Bella Vista Park, 31737, Browning Street, in Murrieta. Activities start at 9 a.m. with the hunt at 10 a.m.

The Hemet Easter egg hunt will be held at Diamond Valley Lake Community Park, 1806 Angler Ave. Hunts on separate fields start at 10:30 a.m. for ages 1 to 3; at 10:35 ages 4-5; at 10:40 ages 6-9 and at 10:45 ages 10-12. An area for families with special needs will be open from 10:30 to 11. There will be raffles, prizes and guessing games, according to the news release.

Menifee’s egg hunt will be held at a new location this year, Wheatfield Park, 30627 Menifee Road. The event begins at 8:30 a.m. with free bounce houses and other activities. The hunt starts at 9 a.m. for children 1 to 6 and at 9:30 a.m. for ages 7-12.

For more information on ValleyWide Recreation and Park District’s egg hunts and other great programming, call 951-654-1505 or visit https://www.gorecreation.

org

Submitted by Valley Wide Recreation and Park District.

With flying fingers on the piano, Frederick Moyer thrills Hemet Concert Association concertgoers

Tony Ault Staff Writer

Concert pianist Frederick Moyer amazed the Hemet Concert Association concert goers Sunday, March 17, while performing on a Steinway grand piano as the keys were projected atop the piano.

It was not only a treat for those at the concert at the Tahquitz High School Performing Arts Center, but an opportunity for the string instrument students from Musica, who were the recipients of an HCA grant, to showcase their skills before Moyer’s performance outside the performing arts center

Moyer performed the works of classical composers and pianists Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Franz Schubert and Frederick Chopin, including a 13-minute original piece of George Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue” that brought a standing ovation from the audience.

Moyer shared a piece of history about each of the famous composers with the audience. He explained that Schubert loved to have his friends together so they could play their music together and make improvisations, much like the jazz

pianists and musicians of today. He said Chopin “never knew where his music was going,” and he would never send the same composition to his publicists. Among those compositions played by Moyer was one version of Chopin’s “Nocturne in D-Flat Major, Op. 27, No 2.”

The intermission featured a presentation about the HCA’s 50 years of concerts in the San Jacinto Valley and a giant balloon toss. The last person who held a balloon received a free 2024-2025 season ticket. Also during intermission, the audience was invited to explore the center’s foyer where guests found information tables about the HCA, the Pink Ladies cancer group that the HCA supports and an opportunity to contribute to the HCA music scholarship fund or become a HCA member.

Moyer returned to the stage, performing Sergei Rachmaninoff’s “Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, Op. 43.” He explained Hungarian music methods which were often used by composers like Franz Listz and Rachmaninoff.

Next, the entire classical theme changed into the jazz frontier as Moyer played some selected

Daffodil Days begin at Julian Farm and Orchard

JULIAN – Julian Farm and Orchard announced its annual “Daffodil Days” festival is underway. Guests visiting the farm can pick their own flowers from Julian Farm and Orchard’s flower fields.

The 25-acre, family-friendly sustainable farm grows Tahiti, Carlton, Love Day, and Dutch Master variations that will be in full bloom.

The farm anticipates up to 150,000 blooms from March through April.

During Daffodil Days, guests can visit the animal sanctuary and petting zoo and enjoy the haybale maze, hayrides, the rock-climbing wall, axe throwing and more. The gift shop features Julian Apple Cider and pies along with many locally sourced items.

The Revolutionary War reenactment, “Revolution in the Orchard,” will take place April 19-21, featur-

Julian Farm and Orchard welcomes families for its annual Daffodil Days festival and U-pick offerings.

Valley News/ Courtesy photo

ing dozens of historical interpreters representing the soldiers and civilians of the American Revolution, demonstrating all aspects of daily and military life. Educational presentations and lectures include cooking demonstrations, military drills, swordplay, axe throwing, blacksmithing and many more aspects of 18th century life. Each day of the event featured two battle reenactments with muskets and cannons.

Julian Farm and Orchard, 4381 Julian Highway, is approximately three miles west of historic Julian. Parking is free, and the farm is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. seasonally. For more information and tickets, visit http://JulianFarmAndOrchard.com

Submitted by Julian Farm and Orchard.

note-for-note transcriptions from jazz pianist Oscar Peterson. He explained how the acceptance of jazz music changed with music of Peterson, Fats Domino, Little Willie Littlefield and Marvin Gaye.

Contact @hemetconcertassociation on Facebook or see http:// hemetconcerts.org for information and tickets.

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

The HCA will feature Calle Sur with Los Llaneros Sunday, April 14, at the Tahquitz High School Performing Arts Center, 4425 Titan Trail, in Hemet. The show begins at 2:30 p.m., with doors opening at 2 p.m. Tickets are available online and at the door. Seating may be limited. It will be the last 50th season performance by the HCA, an all-volunteer, nonprofit organization that seeks to present superior music to residents of the San Jacinto Valley and surrounding areas. For 50 years, the HCA has brought many world-famous musicians and orchestras to the Hemet area stages, and it continues to grow. The HCA concerts offer free admission to anyone 24 and younger. General admission is $30 for the general public and only $20 for HCA subscribers.

REDLANDS SYMPHONY

Sunday, April 7th 2:00pm

Vivaldi: The Four Seasons Piazzolla: Four Seasons of Buenos Aires

favorite symphony is back! Afer a 10-year

American

Tickets: $20 Advance; $25 at the Door

Children 18 and under FREE

Purchase tickets at www.fallbrookmusicsociety.org

Concert location: Bob Burton Center for the Performing Arts at Fallbrook High 2400 S. Stage Coach Lane, Fallbrook

Fallbrook’s

hiatus, this much-loved symphony orchestra once again brings classical symphonic music to our local communities. Redlands Symphony, led by Conductor and Music Director Ransom Wilson, will feature violinist Lara St. John in a tour de force program that pairs the old world, Baroque style with Argentinian tango and South

dance rhythms.

James Farley photo

Kim

Valley-Wide Recreation and Park District is celebrating spring with three free Easter egg hunts open to children ages 12 and under Saturday, March 30, in French Valley, Hemet and Menifee.

Valley News/Valley-Wide photo.

Hemet Concert Association concert manager Walter Pleasnick, left, concert manager of Hemet Concert Association, poses for a photo with pianist Frederick Moyer by Moyer’s Steinway piano as a video of the piano keyboard plays along the top at the Tahquitz High School Performing Arts Center, Sunday, March 17.

Valley News/Tony Ault photos

Violin students from Musica perform, accompanied by a cello player, in front of the Tahquitz High School Performing Arts Center before concert pianist Frederick Moyer’s concert.

Tips to help parents ensure teen mental wellness

TEMECULA – In recent decades, the prevalence of depression among teens and young adults has risen by more than 35%, and the National Alliance on Mental Illness has estimated that 20% of youth, ages 13 to 18, struggle with mental health issues each year.

Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

Special to Valley News

When you see a fire truck, paramedic unit, ambulance and police officers at an incident, it’s “more than likely” they are assisting in a medical emergency. The month of March is National Nutrition Month, and now is a good time to take care of yourself by eating right.

Here are a few things we like to eat at the fire station to help keep us healthy – some that may help in preventing anything from heart disease to cancers.

Apples

Apples have so many antioxidants in them. They are also high in vitamin C which means higher iron absorption and less chance of cancer and heart disease!

Broccoli

It contains important antioxidants that reduce your chances of getting many conditions, including cataracts, heart disease, and many different types of cancers.

Salmon

Salmon is one of the top nutritious foods for improving bone health and preventing osteoporosis. It also helps with the functioning of the immune system and the body’s ability to fight against infection. Omega 3 also helps with cardiovascular health as well as the prevention of blood clots.

Such statistics can be daunting for parents; however, there are several things parents can do to instill habits that promote teen mental wellness. Moreover, they can learn to act as advocates for their teens’ long-term mental wellness and emotional health. Dr.

Beans “Beans, beans are good for the heart... The more you eat the more you fart” Who can’t remember singing that song as a kid! Well, yes, beans are good for both those things, but there’s more. Beans are great for removing cholesterol as they pass through your digestive tract. Eating 3/4 of a cup of beans daily can lower your chance of heart attack by a staggering 40%. Eating beans is also beneficial in preventing diabetes and some forms of cancer.

Mushrooms Mushrooms are an excellent source of potassium, which helps lower high blood pressure and reduces the risk of getting a stroke. The mushroom is also high in copper which has cardio-protective properties.

Walnuts They are helpful in cardiovascular protection and cognitive function. Walnuts are one of the top nutritious foods that have helpful anti-inflammatory benefits. This is helpful for people who suffer from asthma, rheumatoid arthritis and skin problems such as eczema. Walnuts also may be helpful if you suffer from hypertension.

Almonds

Yes, almonds are high in fats, but they are monounsaturated fats, which are good for you. These types of fats have been associated

Ashely Zucker, a psychiatrist at Kaiser Permanente San Bernardino County, shared some tips.

“Adolescence is a time in life when teens are figuring out their identity and who they are as a person. Often, this involves finding ways to differentiate themselves

with reduced risk of heart disease. Almonds are also high in Vitamin E and magnesium. When there is enough magnesium in the body, the flow of blood, oxygen and nutrients through your veins and arteries becomes a lot easier.

Spinach

Spinach may also help protect you against osteoporosis, colon cancer, arthritis and heart disease. Spinach is also high in antioxidants which are so important in cancer prevention.

Fish

Eating fish could help you in a variety of ways including reducing the tendency of blood clots, helping to repair arteries that have been damaged, lowering the blood pressure and lowering the risk of getting oral and digestive tract cancer.

Ice Cream

Well, ice cream is a debatable food for health, but it sure tastes good. It’s important to check with your physician or nutritionist to make sure these and other healthy food choices are right for you.

How good of shape is your plate? Stay healthy and chances are, we’ll stay out of your house.

Sam DiGiovanna is a 35-year fire service veteran. He started with the Los Angeles County Fire Department, served as fire chief at the Monrovia Fire Department and currently serves as chief at the Verdugo Fire Academy in Glendale.

from their parents and bonding more with their peer group. It’s common for teens and parents to have more conflicts as they navigate the transition from family to peer relationships,” Zucker said.

Teens may be at particular risk of mental health problems because they are experiencing new and different emotions that they may not yet be able to fully understand or process.

“As a parent, letting your teens know that you are available and willing to talk gives them the opportunity to come to you when they are struggling,” Zucker said.

Starting connections and conversations when things are going well also creates a foundation for teens to go to their parents when times are tough. Parents’ availability and support can go a long way in helping their teens feel emotionally secure. Security is the foundation of teen mental wellness. When your teen talks to you, be nonjudgmental and listen. While you may have a strong internal reaction, you do not want them to feel like they have upset you or are in trouble for opening up. Zucker shared that one of the most impactful things you can do is model how you manage your

own emotions and show your teenager how you navigate challenging t imes. Articulate when you are stressed or upset, so your teenager recognizes that parents can have tough emotions too.

One tip that can be extremely helpful for a parent trying to get a teen to open up is to have a conversation in the car while driving or when doing another activity. It takes some of the intensity out of the conversation. When you are not face-to-face, but side-by-side, you may be surprised at how much more willing they are to open up.

As a parent or caregiver, you have a good sense of your child’s normal behavior. Be sure to contact your pediatrician if you are concerned that your child is struggling with stress or anxiety or if you are worried that they might hurt themselves or someone else. Your pediatrician can help determine if underlying health conditions or medications may be causing mood problems. They can also connect you with other health professionals, such as a psychologist, psychiatrist or social worker. Visit http://kp.org to learn more about mental health resources.

Submitted by Kaiser Permanente San Bernardino County.

Movie review: ‘Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire’

Bob Garver

Special to the Valley News

What has happened to the “Ghostbusters” movie franchise?

For over a quarter century Hollywood resisted the temptation to spoil the one-two punch of the 1984 comedy classic and its decent-enough 1989 sequel. Then there came the 2016 reboot, which was controversial for its female cast, and the controversy is all anyone remembers. The 2021 legacy

sequel didn’t always nail its humor, but there were some charming new characters and a nice kick of nostalgia at the end. But now with

“Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire,” this once-mighty property has officially become, well, a ghost of its former self. After the bold decision to set the last movie in Oklahoma, this movie finds the Spengler family living in New York City busting ghosts in an urban metropolis.

Mom Callie (Carrie Coon) over-

sees overzealous daughter Phoebe (Mckenna Grace) and saner son Trevor (Finn Wolfhard), and Phoebe’s teacher Gary (Paul Rudd) is along as an unofficial husband/ father figure (“step-teacher” he calls it). They’re living in the Ghostbusters’ old firehouse (an NYC landmark, to be sure) with the financial backing of Winston Zeddemore (Ernie Hudson) and spend their days going on supernatural adventures with occasional help from classic characters Ray Stanz (Dan Aykroyd), Janine Melnitz (Annie Potts), and Peter Venkman (Bill Murray). Also back are Oklahoma friends Lucky (Celeste O’Connor) and Podcast (Logan Kim) as assistants for Winston and Ray, respectively. Oh, and their exploits constantly get under the skin of Mayor Walter Peck (William Atherton).

I know on paper this sounds like a good setup. You’ve got the likeable old characters mixing with the likeable old characters and one unlikeable old character to be their foil. But all likeability and even unlikability has been stripped away. Phoebe and Trevor have become unpleasant and rude, Gary brings nothing new to the “unsure step-parent” architype, Lucky and Podcast were never memorable in the first place, the shine is off the returning Ghostbusters (the movie lets Venkman make a grand re-entrance late in the movie, seemingly

forgetting that he was used in an earlier scene), and personal grudge or not, it’s clear from minute one that Peck is right to think that the operation is a danger to the city.

One night while sulking, Phoebe plays chess with humanoid ghost Melody (Emily Alyn Lind), who is stuck on Earth until she can cross over via unfinished business. This part of the movie is relatively tolerable, though I will say that Callie and Gary letting a teenager hang out alone at the Washington Square Park chess tables after dark is worse parenting than anything that occurs while ghostbusting. Meanwhile, Ray buys an orb with ghostly energy off the money-hungry, but unambitious Nadeem (Kumail Nanjiani). Shared recklessness leads to the unleashing of an ice demon, and Ghostbusters young and old have to band together to save the city from a danger that is 100% their fault.

I couldn’t latch onto anything enjoyable about “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire.” The jokes aren’t funny, the action sequences and special effects are all cheap CGI, and the heart-tugging moments are badly missing the sensitivity they had in the last movie. But I did hear laughing and cheering in my theater. It came from very young children. Maybe this movie is onto something there. Maybe the next “Ghostbusters” movie should

Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire.

shoot for a PG rating (and not the “80’s PG” of the original, which frankly is less family-friendly than this movie) so it can better play to kids. None of the “PG-13 humor” here is really doing the movie any favors. Of course, I don’t think any of this movie’s humor is doing it any favors, but cleaning it up so it can reach a wider audience wouldn’t be a terrible idea.

Grade: D

“Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” is rated PG-13 for supernatural action/violence, language and suggestive references. Its running time is 115 minutes. Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@ nyu.edu.

Parents’ availability and support can go a long way in helping their teens feel emotionally secure, which is the foundation of teen mental wellness.

Valley News/Courtesy photo

Canyon Lake POA assistant general manager embarks on new journey

CANYON LAKE – After over

20 years at the Canyon Lake Property Owners Association, Assistant General Manager Lynn Jensen announced her resignation to pursue the next steps in her career as a general manager with another community.

With over two decades of experience in the large-scale community association management industry, Jensen said she is poised to take her new position and lead her new team to success.

Jensen started as an associate in the member services and planning and compliance departments. In less than a decade, she ascended to supervisor in member services. Her journey continued as she took on the activities director responsibilities, overseeing the pool operations, equestrian, campground, clubs, community events, recreational amenities and senior center functions.

Her educational background is in social and behavioral sciences and liberal studies, and with 30+ y ears of customer service, the Canyon Lake community instilled in her a steadfast commitment to “the people business” – both within the community and among her employees, she said.

“I have held to the belief of

building staff up and preparing the way for those staff to grow and develop,” Jensen said. “I believe that is truly how we carry the torch and move the organization forward each year.”

As assistant general manager, Jensen was responsible for overseeing human resources, member services, planning and compliance, facility schedules, food and beverage, activities, community events and communications, in addition to other important areas within the Canyon Lake POA. She worked closely with the general manager and board of directors to develop and implement policies and procedures.

“Her selfless leadership, exemplary professionalism, and industry knowledge have left its mark on all of us in the best way,” General Manager Eric Kazakoff said.

From cultivating a working environment to dedicating herself to the continuing education and professional development of her team, Jensen has invested herself wholeheartedly into the people she serves, making her the heart and soul of the Canyon Lake POA.

Known as an honorary Canyon Lake historian, Jensen shared her knowledge both about the Canyon Lake community and the

APAPA announces new judicial appointment

successful as a judicial appointee,” Alameda County Superior Court Judge Stuart Hing, co-judicial adviser for APAPA-GAC, said.

the appointment of Sophia Choi to the Superior Court of Riverside County.

“As the daughter of immigrant parents, I am honored by this judicial appointment from Gov. Newsom, and I am deeply grateful for the support from the APAPAGAC,” Choi said. “I am very mindful that behind each case there are people whose lives are affected by courtroom decisions. I will continue to carry that mindset and act responsibly and attentively as I carefully listen to each case knowing the impact I will make on people’s lives.”

Choi has 17 years under her belt as an attorney, including working for the Riverside County district attorney, and will move to the judicial bench when she is sworn into her new position.

“Sophia is ready to move to the bench as she is more cognizant of the need to embrace diversity and to be sensitive to the differences of each person. On behalf of the APAPA-GAC, we are proud of Sophia and know that she will be

“Sophia believes the position of a judge brings with it both the ability and the responsibility to allow for underrepresented voices to be heard. She truly understands the need to be a careful listener in this growing community that reflects California’s diversity and values,” Alameda County Superior Court Judge Stephanie Sato, co-judicial adviser for APAPA-GAC, said.

APAPA, founded in 2001, has grown into a nationwide organization with chapters across the country, from Sacramento to Washington, with the national headquarters located in Sacramento. It is a community-based, nonprofit, nonpartisan organization focused on increasing API leadership and civic engagement at the local, state and national level through voter registration and education, internships a nd civic leadership programs. One important goal of the APAPA Government Appointments Committee is to cultivate and promote exceptional and diverse applicants for gubernatorial appointments.

Submitted by APAPA.

Canyon Lake POA with her team, focusing on the human element in business. She developed her work ethic while in the U.S. Navy along with a commitment to excellence, evidenced in her certified manager of community associations and large-scale community management certifications and her attention to detail.

“While we are very sad to see her go, we are extremely proud and excited for her to start this new chapter,” Kazakoff said.

Jensen leaves behind a peoplecentric legacy. The Canyon Lake POA and its staff expressed their gratitude for her years of service and wish her the best in her future endeavors.

“Many people have asked or wondered over the years: ‘What is it that makes someone stay at their job for more than 20 years?’ To me, it’s the people you work with and for,” Jensen said. “It’s when we roll our sleeves up, pitch in and get the tasks done, no matter what it takes.

“That has been the most rewarding part about working for the Canyon Lake POA. Thank you for letting me be a part of that team,” Jensen said in parting.

Submitted by Canyon Lake POA.

Beware ghost tax preparers

Promising big refunds or not signing client tax returns are some of the most common red flags.

SACRAMENTO – It is a problem that continues to haunt taxpayers each year. Self proclaimed “professional” tax preparers who lure taxpayers in with low fees, often touting big and fast tax refunds, then disappear right after the tax filing deadline hits the stroke of midnight.

“We call them ghost tax preparers. They never sign client tax returns so it makes it very difficult for enforcement teams to find them, which is, of course, their intention. Not signing is also against the law,” Lester Crawford, chair of the California Tax Education Council, a state-mandated nonprofit organization that manages the registration of 40,000 tax preparers, said. Here’s how ghost tax preparers work. They print out tax returns for clients, tell them to sign and mail it out. What many taxpayers fail to notice is the tax return will not show the tax preparer’s signature. For electronically filed tax returns, their name is also left

out. These tax returns are filed as “self prepared.” “A lot of them move from one city to another every year and reestablish their client base through word of mouth,” Fernando Angell, CTEC board member, said. “It’s senseless and targeted misconduct.”

Other typical scams include sticking a business label on the tax return instead of signing it. Clients get the label copy so it looks as though they signed it; however, a blank copy without a business label is filed. They claim they “forgot” to sign the tax return and promise to sign “later” after payment is received.

Ghost preparers will require payment in cash and not provide a receipt, invent income to qualify their clients for tax credits, claim fake deductions to falsely boost the size of the refund and direct refunds to their bank account instead of the taxpayer’s account.

“One client I helped had a ghost tax preparer block their calls after

getting notices from the IRS,” Angell said.

California is one of the few states that has set requirements for tax professionals. State law requires anyone who prepares tax returns for a fee must be either an attorney, certified public accountant, CTEC-registered tax preparer or enrolled agent. Anyone caught breaking state law may face penalties up to $5,000 or more from the California Franchise Tax Board.

Taxpayers can submit anonymous reports about questionable tax preparers to http://CTEC.org. Taxpayers can get more tips on the podcast http://taxpayerbeware.org also available in Spanish at http:// contribuyentecudese.org.

CTEC is a nonprofit organization that was established in 1997 by the California State Legislature to protect taxpayers against fraudulent and incompetent tax preparers.

Submitted by CTEC.

Lynn Jensen, assistant general manager of Canyon Lake Property Owners Association, has resigned to pursue a position as general manager with another company.

Valley News/Courtesy photo

gave at a fundraiser for his 2024 presidential campaign.

“It’s a war that should have never happened. It’s a war the Russians tried repeatedly to settle on terms that were very, very beneficial to Ukraine and us. The major thing they wanted was for us to keep NATO out of the Ukraine. The big military contractors want to add new countries to NATO all the time. Why? Then that country has to conform its military purchases to NATO weapon specifications, which means certain companies, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon, General Dynamics, Boeing and Lockheed, get a trapped market.

“We committed $113 billion. Just to give you an example, we could have built a home for almost every homeless person in this country. We then committed another $24 billion since then, two

As we approach Cesar Chavez Day, Sunday, March 31, I would like to take a moment to recognize and celebrate his legacy and the many people who advocated alongside him. Cesar Chavez was an American activist who fought hard for Chicanos and Mexican Americans who were exploited and discriminated against. Despite seemingly insurmountable odds, Cesar Chavez made tireless efforts for better

months ago, and now President Biden is asking for another $60 billion. But the big, big expenses are going to come after the war when we have to rebuild all the things that we destroyed. Mitch McConnell was asked, “Can we really afford to spend $113 billion on Ukraine? He said, ‘Don’t worry. It’s not really going to Ukraine. It’s going to American defense manufacturers.’ So he just admitted it’s a money laundering scheme. And who do you think owns (or has ownership in) every one of those companies? BlackRock.

“So Tim Scott, during a Republican debate said, ‘Don’t worry. It’s not a gift to Ukraine. It’s a loan.’ So raise your hand if you think that that loan’s ever getting paid back. Yeah, of course it’s not. So why do they call it a loan? Because if they call it a loan, they

working conditions and dignified lives for farmworkers.

Cesar Chavez was not alone in this fight; there were many others who pledged their support for this cause. In the spirit of Women’s History Month, I would like to talk about Dolores Huerta. Together with Cesar Chavez in 1962, Dolores Huerta founded the National Farm Workers Association, which later became the United Farm Workers’ Union, protecting the

BUSINESS

can impose loan conditions. And what are the loan conditions that we impose on? Number one is an extreme austerity program so that if you’re poor in Ukraine, you’re going to be poor forever. Number two, most important, Ukraine has to put all of its government-owned assets up for sale to multinational corporations, including all of its agricultural land.

“The biggest single asset in Europe, in Ukraine [is their farmland]. There’s been a thousand years of war fought over that land as the richest farmland in the world. It’s the bread basket of Europe. Almost 500,000 Ukrainian kids have died to keep that land as part of Ukraine. They almost certainly didn’t know about this loan condition. They’ve [Ukraine] already sold 30% of it. The buyers were DuPont, Cargill

rights of farmworkers nationwide. Dolores Huerta dedicated her life to social justice and civil rights, impacting young women everywhere. She was the one who created the famous motto “¡Sí se puede!” “Yes we can!” when facing tremendous challenges.

Both Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta played important roles in the United States civil rights movement. Their efforts inspired many to organize and push for bet-

and Monsanto. Who do you think owns all of those companies? Yes, BlackRock. And then in December, President Biden gave out the contract to rebuild Ukraine. And who do you think got that contract? Blackrock.

“So they’re doing this right in front of us. They don’t even care that we know anymore. They know that they can get away with it. And how do they know that?

Because they have a strategy. And that strategy is an old, old strategy, which is they keep us at war with each other. They keep hating us. They keep the Republicans and Democrats fighting each other and black against white and all these divisions that they sow.” www. Kennedy2024.com.

ter rights. Let’s honor their legacy as well as the many others who have pushed for a better today and tomorrow for our communities. May their stories be a reminder that together, “¡Sí se puede!” Yes we can.

Yxstian Gutierrez Riverside County Supervisor District 5

Black Bear Diner selected as Menifee’s March Business Spotlight

MENIFEE – Menifee announced “Black Bear Diner” as the city’s March Business Spotlight, a program that is a part of the Economic Development Department’s B3 Building Better Businesses program.

Black Bear Diner, which opened in May 2023, is owned and operated by Amit Singh and Parth Metha. They said they are proud of being an integral part of the Menifee community and strive to ensure that every visit is memorable. While the food draws visitors to their diner, the bear-themed decor and friendly staff never fail to delight both new and regular customers. The extensive menu caters to all tastes, spanning from fluffy pancakes to juicy burgers and refreshing salads.

Black Bear Diner extended its paws to Menifee, making it the second establishment in southwest Riverside County. Originating in Mt. Shasta, the diner was co-founded by Bruce Dean, Bob Manley and Laurie Manley in 1995 and has built a nationwide presence of 156 locations in 14 states. Menifee was strategically chosen as a new site for the diner due to its flourishing population and the harmonious blend of ongoing and forthcoming developments along McCall Boulevard, fostering a promising environment for

regional commerce.

Black Bear Diner’s dedication to Menifee goes beyond serving food. In addition to partnering with the Menifee Police Department for their first-ever Breakfast with Badges, they have also collaborated with the Menifee Valley Chamber of Commerce and participated in the Menifee’s State of the City address. By actively engaging with various community organizations and events, Black Bear Diner continues to demonstrate their commitment to building strong relationships and making a positive impact in Menifee.

“We are grateful for Black Bear’s commitment to excellence and for being a valued part of the growing vibrant dining scene in Menifee,” District 1 Councilmember Bob Karwin said. “It is heartwarming to see a business like Black Bear not only thrive in their endeavors, but also give back to the community that they serve.”

For more information about Black Bear Diner, visit http:// www.blackbeardiner.com/location/menifee/. To view their Business Spotlight video, visit https:// youtu.be/aSon_CMoSdk.

The Menifee Business Spotlight is part of the Economic Development Department’s B3 Building Better Businesses program, which aims to showcase local businesses

that go above and beyond the call of business, foster pride in Menifee’s thriving business community and promote diversity in Menifee’s local economy.

Chosen applicants, who are nominated by the community, are honored during a special presentation at a city council meeting and receive a free 30-second profes-

sional video developed by the Economic Development Department showcased on the city’s business website, http://www.menifeebusiness.com.

Valley News/Courtesy photo

For more information on the Business Spotlight program, or other resources available to Menifee businesses, contact the Economic Development Department at econdev@cityofmenifee.us Submitted by city of Menifee.

Nominations are encouraged to recognize businesses in Menifee that contribute to the betterment of the Menifee community. Visit the link below to apply http://www. cityofmenifee.us/BusinessSpotlight.

Members of the Menifee City Council honored Black Bear Diner owners for their fine food and assistance to many agencies in the City of Menifee putting them into the March Spotlight.

March 29 – April 4, 2024

Southwestern League baseball teams run through first week of conference action

JP Raineri Sports Editor

The Southwestern League competition kicked off with great excitement this past week as baseball teams begin to vie for supremacy in a series of threegame matchups over five actionpacked weeks. The defending champions, Vista Murrieta, are hoping to defend their title against a lineup of determined competitors including Great Oak, Chaparral, Temecula Valley, Murrieta Mesa, and Murrieta Valley, each bringing their A-game to the baseball diamond. Here’s a look at what happened in the opening week: Murrieta Mesa Rams vs. Chaparral Pumas series recap

The Murrieta Mesa Rams and the Chaparral Pumas didn’t disappoint over their three-game face-off. The series launched with a tense pitchers’ duel. On the mound for Chaparral, senior righthander Braylon Doughty displayed a commanding presence, securing 12 strikeouts across four and onethird innings. Unfortunately, he conceded a critical hit in the fourth inning, allowing Murrieta Mesa’s Trevor Anctil to single, bringing sophomore Tanner Blackmon home, marking the only run yielded by Doughty. Blackmon, in turn, held the Puma batters at bay from the pitcher’s mound as the lefty secured the Murrieta Mesa victory, which was sealed by a Keagan Kelley save.

In the turn around game, Chaparral responded fiercely handing the Rams their first season loss in a 9-5 victory. The game’s momentum shifted in Chaparral’s favor with a five-run bonanza in the fifth inning that completely unsettled Murrieta Mesa’s rhythm. Notably, the game featured Doughty and Ethan Udell hitting home runs, directly contributing to the scoreboard pressure. Jonas Ballesteros took the win, striking out nine over five innings, while Josiah Giron was tagged with the loss for Murrieta Mesa.

The final clash was another close encounter. Despite being out-hit in their rubber match, Murrieta Mesa emerged victorious with a 6-3 win over their league rivals. Nathan Box got the win for the Rams as Levi Alderete led the charge with two hits. Chaparral’s Mikey Ong suffered the loss despite a nine-strikeout game. Freshman Jameson Minnett earned the save for Murrieta Mesa as the Rams continue to assert their dominance in the league, keeping intact their record of series wins against Chaparral since 2019.

Great Oak Wolfpack vs.

Murrieta Valley Nighthawks series recap

Murrieta Valley showcased a stunning turnaround as they rallied from a 3-1 deficit to win 5-4 in the first game of the series.

The Nighthawks made their move in the climactic seventh inning, thanks to Jesiah Generoso’s single and Grant Harrison’s thrilling double, collectively driving in four runs. Riley Kujawa clinched the win as Roy Kim of Great Oak took a hard-earned loss. Closer Charlie Black sealed the deal, ensuring Murrieta Valley triumphed amid a high-octane hit fest that totaled 12 for the Nighthawks, thanks largely to Bear Bachmeier and Generoso’s three hits each.

Murrieta Valley established their dominance once more in game two of the week, claiming the series with a decisive 10-5 victory.

Kujawa was a titan at bat this time around, hitting a triple and two singles. The Nighthawks turned the tide in the second inning, stacking six runs that catapulted them into a commanding lead. Among the offensive leaders

Still Photography see CONFERENCE, page C-2

Temecula Valley’s Taden Krogsgaard was pivotal for the Golden Bears in their series opening win over Vista Murrieta. Valley News/Time Stood Still Photography

Murrieta Valley’s Rain McMillan (24) tries to break up the double play as Great Oak’s Gavin Fien makes the throw to first base.

Great Oak’s Reagan Ricken helped the Wolfpack finish their three-game series against Murrieta Valley with a win. Temecula Valley’s Cody Liscio picked up the complete game win over Vista Murrieta in game three of their opening series. Valley News/Action Captures Media Group Valley News/Time Stood Still Photography

Valley News/Time Stood

Night of Destruction returns to Perris Auto Speedway April 6

PERRIS – Racing will return

Perris Auto Speedway when LKQ Pick Your Part presents the “Craziest Show On Dirt,” Night of Destruction Saturday, April 6. The

night of racing and clean family fun will include a daring figure 8 race, no-rules mini-stocks on the challenging road course, rough and tumble demo cross, a wild figure 8 trailer race and of course, the zany double-deckers.

Spectator gates will open at 5 p.m. and the crashing will start at 7 p.m. Fans are urged to bring their children for the on track autograph session and free candy giveaway with all the drivers and cars from 5:15-5:45 p.m.

Adult tickets for the Night of Destruction are $20. For children 6-12 tickets are $5, and children 5 and under are free. Advance tickets for all races through the end of June are available online at https://www.tix.com/ticket-

sales/pas/7 Advance tickets can also be ordered by phone at 800595-4849. For those who do not wish to purchase advance tickets, there will be plenty available for everyone at the ticket window. The fairgrounds charge $10 for parking.

The Avanti Windows and Doors USAC/CRA Sprint Cars, GAS Chassis Young Guns, Senior Sprint Cars, PASSCAR Super Stocks, and American Factory Stocks will return Saturday, April 27.

Perris

Perris Auto Speedway wants to thank the following corporate partners. Ahern Equipment Rentals, Anderson Chevrolet, Battery Systems, Bud’s Tire, Tire Choice Auto Service, Chris’ Hauling, City of Perris, Communication Innovations, Daytona Boat & RV Storage, Ed Moore Bullet Proof Driveshaft, Flowdynamics, GAS Chassis, HD Industries, Heimark/Anheuser Busch, Hoosier Tires, Inland Rigging,

CONFERENCE from page C-1

was Rainn McMillan, whose two-run triple was pivotal. Riley Parkes earned the win, delivering a resilient four innings pitched, while Riley Kronenfeld from Great Oak was charged with the loss. Murrieta Valley notched 13 hits as McMillan and Kujawa drove in two runs apiece. For the Nighthawks, multiple hits came from Generoso, Julian Treadwell, and Landon Anderson, while Reagan Ricken and Dylan Fien ensured Great Oak showed some fighting spirit. Both drove in two runs as Fien went 2-for-2 at the plate to lead Great Oak in hits. In a stunning reversal, Great Oak clinched the series finale with a 2-0 shutout over Murrieta Valley. Ricken starred both at the plate and on the mound, starting the game strong for Great Oak and driving in the decisive run in the fourth.

Ricken, Clayton Hartman, Isaiah Reyes, and Wyatt Toth combined for a shutout that stymied the Nighthawks’ attack. On the flip side, Generoso took the loss for Murrieta Valley, surrendering just four hits and two runs over six innings.

Temecula Valley Golden Bears vs. Vista Murrieta Bronco series recap

The series opener set the tone with a nail-biter as the Golden Bears snatched a tight 2-1 victory over the Broncos. Sophomore right-hander Taden Krogsgaard led the charge for Temecula Valley, successfully retiring 20 batters and controlling the game into the late innings. The scoreboard remained untouched until the seventh inning when Connor Christie’s walk allowed the crucial game winning run. Krogsgaard secured the win while Cody Liscio provided the essential relief. On offense, Rocco Pugliese, Will Bandel, and Liscio managed to deliver the muchneeded hits. Despite a strong showing by Broncos’ pitcher Vaughn Neckar, it was not enough

Living Water’s Hospice, LKQ Pick Your Part, Luke’s Transmission, Moose Racing, Pepsi-Cola, Performance Online, Pole Position Raceway, PrintItNow. com, Rainbow Bolt & Supply, Rene’s Bar & Grill, Rugged Radios, Shaver Specialties, Square

H, Sunoco Race Fuels, Trench Shoring, Upland Rock, Varner Construction and Vista Paint. For information on 2024 billboard advertising at The PAS, call 951-940-0134 and ask for Charlie Watson. USAC/CRA races from Perris

Valley News/Vane Ledgerwood photo

Auto Speedway are not streamed online.

Fans can stay up to date on track and driver news on The PAS social media efforts or visit http:// perrisautospeedway.com/. Subm itted by Perris Auto Speedway.

to pull off the win. Vista Murrieta edged out Temecula Valley in the second face-off with a 1-0 victory. The game hung in balance until an opportune error in the fifth inning paved the way for the Broncos to score. Vista Murrieta’s Jorge Rodriguez had a powerful sixinning performance that left the Golden Bears scoreless. Though Logan Long of Temecula Valley demonstrated formidable resistance through seven innings, the support from the bats was not in his favor. The Broncos managed only three hits, courtesy of Ryland Duson, Brady Luyben, and Neckar as Taytum Reeves closed the game for the save.

The final match was a testament to the Golden Bears’ resilience and hunger for victory, as they overcame the reigning league champions, 3-1. Liscio shined both at the plate with his two hit day that drove in a run, and on the mound as he struck out eight batters in a complete game showing. Krogsgaard continued his impressive form, contributing significantly to the scoreboard with his two hits and an RBI as well. Despite valiant attempts from the Broncos, with Gavin Kramer pitching and Duson and RJ Holmes bagging two hits each, they fell short as Reeves managed the team’s lone RBI.

With the first week of league action all wrapped up, Vista Murrieta looks ahead to their next challenge against Great Oak, Murrieta Mesa and Murrieta Valley

will go toe-to-toe to stay on top of the standings, while Temecula Valley gears up to face Chaparral. Leading the pack is Murrieta Valley, boasting a 2-1 league record and an impressive 11-3 overall record. Hot on their heels, Murrieta Mesa mirrors the league score, standing 2-1 with a stellar 10-1 record overall. Keeping the competition fierce is Temecula Valley at 2-1 in the league and 7-2-1 overall, followed closely by the defending Vista Murrieta at 1-2 league and 6-4 overall. Chaparral is pushing through with a 1-2 league standing and 8-4 overall, and Great Oak also holds at 1-2 in league play, with a 9-3 total record. Send sports updates to sports@ reedermedia.com

Murrieta Valley’s Jesiah Generoso takes off for second base in a recent game. Valley News/Action Captures Media Group

Southwestern League high school softball update

JP Raineri Sports Editor

With only eight conference games remaining in the high-octane Southwestern League high school softball race, the standings are heating up. The Murrieta Mesa Rams are leading the charge with an impressive 7-0 league record.

Dominating the field, they’ve lost just two games all season, boasting a strong 16-2 record. The team’s offensive talent is evident, having scored 181 runs while surrendering merely 50. Taelyn Holley, a standout star for the Rams, leads the league with an outstanding 34 hits in 50 at-bats and has smashed 7 homeruns.

Notably, Murrieta Mesa has five of the top 10 hitters in the league, illustrating their deep lineup strength. In the pitching sphere, Lilly Hauser is throwing victory after victory, leading the league with 11 overall wins and 102 strikeouts. But it’s not all about Murrieta Mesa; Trista Clarke from Chaparral is also making waves as one of the next top hitters in the group with 16 hits in 32 at-bats.

The race for second place is currently led by the Great Oak Wolfpack, holding a solid 5-1 league standing with their only league loss handed to them by the formidable Rams. Their overall

record is 6-4-1. In third, the Vista Murrieta Broncos are keeping the competition tight with a 4-1 league record and an overall 7-4 record, not to be underestimated as we approach the business end of the league.

The Murrieta Valley Nighthawks are perched in fourth place with a 2-4 league record and hold an 8-10 overall record, showing they have the potential to stir the standings.

Meanwhile, the Chaparral Pumas and the Temecula Valley Golden Bears are sitting in fifth and sixth place, respectively. Chaparral is currently 1-6 in the league and 4-11 overall, whereas Temecula Valley is searching for their first league win, with a 0-7 league record and a 1-9 overall. Can the Rams maintain their flawless streak, or will the Wolfpack close in on the lead?

Don’t miss any of the action with key matchups set for this week:

Upcoming games include the series bouts between Murrieta Mesa as they take on Murrieta Valley, Vista Murrieta goes headto-head against Great Oak and Temecula Valley faces off with Chaparral. Be sure to catch these exciting encounters on Tuesday and Thursday at 3:30 pm. Stay tuned for more thrills from the Southwestern League softball field!

Send sports updates to sports@ reedermedia.com

Broncos ride to victory, take the top spot in boys’ lacrosse standings

JP Raineri Sports Editor

MURRIETA – In a historic victory that marked the growth of the sport of lacrosse in Southwest Riverside County, Vista Murrieta claimed a resounding win over Temecula Valley with a score of 17-7. The triumph was particularly sweet as it was the Broncos’ first victory over the Golden Bears since lacrosse became a CIF sanctioned sport in the area in 2018.

The match’s standout was undoubtedly Luke Files, who netted four goals, leading the offensive assault for Vista Murrieta. But the game wasn’t just about scoring prowess; it was also a testament to tenacity and teamwork, especially on defense.

Senior goalie Collin Applegate was instrumental, rallying his team at halftime with a call to intensify their efforts and not get lackadaisical. He followed through with an outstanding performance in the second half, keeping the opposition at bay.

Just days after their exceptional performance, the Broncos turned their attention to Great Oak, delivering on a nail-biting win with an 8-7 scoreline, showcasing their ability to perform under pressure

and maintain their winning streak. Despite the lack of local teams in the CIF Southern Section boys lacrosse polls last week, this win has firmly positioned Vista Murrieta at the top of the Southwestern League standings, boasting a remarkable 2-0 record in league play and an impressive 9-2 overall.

The league standings behind Vista Murrieta are tight, with the defending Southwestern League champion Golden Bears still holding a competitive 2-1 in league matches and a strong 7-4 overall. The fight for league supremacy is fierce, with Chaparral also at 2-1, Murrieta Mesa and Great Oak following closely behind, and Murrieta Valley still searching for their first league win.

Adding to the night’s spectacle was an unexpected guest—a Space X rocket launch—streaking across the sky, igniting the crowd’s excitement, and setting the stage for what would be a remarkable evening of high school lacrosse action.

Coming up this week, the Broncos will defend their home turf against Murrieta Valley, while Chaparral faces off against Great Oak in what promises to be another thrilling set of contests. Temecula

Valley will aim to bounce back on their visit to Murrieta Mesa. With the momentum firmly with Vista Murrieta, the coming games are crucial as they seek to solidify their position and head into the postseason with confidence and a commanding presence in the league standings.

Send sports updates to sports@ reedermedia.com

Murrieta Mesa’s Lilly Hauser, who leads the Southwestern League in the wins column, makes the throw to first base during a recent game. Valley News/Action Captures Media Group

Vista Murrieta’s second baseman fields a ground ball during a recent league game. Great Oak’s Josephine Burke hits a hard line drive in a recent Southwestern League game. Valley News/Action Captures Media Group Valley News/Time Stood Still Photography

Vista Murrieta’s Luke Files scored four goals against Temecula Valley in their Southwestern League matchup last week. Valley News/Files Owens Photography

Senior goalie, Collin Applegate, stepped up in the second half and challenged his teammates at halftime to not get lazy with the lead. Valley News/Files Owens Photography

A Space X rocket launch in the background helped start the excitement to begin the game between Temecula Valley and Vista Murrieta.

Valley News/Files Owens Photography

Local student athletes secure their future with National Letter of Intent signings

JP Raineri Sports Editor

The continuous surge of talent that our educational institutions nurture is once again highlighted by the latest batch of National Letter of Intent (NLI) signees recently reported to our staff. The NLI program, a beacon of hope for aspiring student-athletes, marks a pivotal milestone as it ferries them to not just collegiate sports but also solidifies their educational pursuits. It’s more than just a contract; it’s a launch pad for both their athletic ambitions and academic careers.

Kimberly Sperling of Santa Rosa Academy has made an indelible mark on her school’s history by signing with the revered soccer team of Fullerton College. This move is set to charge the player and the program with invaluable experiences on and off the pitch.

Adding to the buzz, Tahquitz baseball is beaming with pride as two of its stars: Ramone Valenzuela and Miguel Campos who avow their allegiance to Menlo College and Hope International University,

respectively. These athletes have illustrated commendable dedication to their craft, and their commitment resonates with hopes high and spirits soaring into their eminent college careers.

The stories of these aspirants reflect the vitality and authentic promise of our local sports scene. We at the Valley News are motivated by their journeys and are committed to showcasing their progress as they step confidently toward their future with bright potential.

For those in our readership network privy to the feats of other student-athletes ready to make leaps of their own, we extend an invitation to share these stories. Your contributions are pivotal in ensuring that no victory goes unnoticed. Please direct updates to sports@reedermedia.com

To the 2023-2024 cohort of student-athletes preparing to take their talents to the collegiate level, we convey our heartfelt congratulations and anticipate the thrilling chapters yet unwritten in your athletic and academic odyssey.

Paloma Valley and Tahquitz only unbeaten prep baseball teams in the area

JP Raineri Sports Editor

The competitive fire of high school baseball is ablaze as we pass the halfway marker of the season. Two behemoths, the Paloma Valley Wildcats, and the Tahquitz Titans, continue to soar in their leagues, undefeated and unwavering in their quest for perfection.

On Friday, March 22, the Wildcats reaffirmed their

dominance with a nail-biting triumph over the Temescal Canyon Titans, clinching a 10-8 victory. Holding onto a delicately poised win for the second successive game, the Wildcats displayed the grit needed to maintain a pristine season.

Amid the electric atmosphere at their home grounds, they extended a commendable winning streak to 13 games, stamping their authority on the Ivy League with a 6-0 record and

are 14-0 overall. Brody Smearer delivered an inspirational pitching performance, constraining the opposition to a solitary earned run over 4.2 innings. The offensive attack from Ayden Harrison shone through as he capitalized on every trip to the plate, ensuring consistent runs on the board. His counterpart, Gavin Garcia, matched the energy with a vital 2-for-5 effort, driving the see TEAMS, page C-5

Kimberly Sperling of Santa Rosa Academy signed her National letter of Intent to play soccer and continue her education at Fullerton College after graduating in 2024. Valley News/Courtesy photo

Tahquitz baseball players, Ramone Valenzuela and Miguel Campos, signed their National letter of Intent to play their sport and continue their education at the collegiate level after graduating in 2024. Valley News/Courtesy photo

Kimberly Sperling of Santa Rosa Academy is joined by teammates after she signed her National letter of Intent to play soccer at Fullerton College.

Paloma Valley third baseman, Ayden Harrison (44), slides safely into third base for a stolen base during a recent game against Heritage. Valley News/Action Captures Media Group

Paloma Valley’s Chapman Weber (18) delivers a pitch during a recent 3-0 win over Heritage High School. Valley News/Action Captures Media Group Valley News/Action Captures Media Group

Miguel Campos of Tahquitz raises his hands to celebrate as he comes in to score a run during a recent Mountain Pass League game. Valley News/Courtesy photo

HEALTH

Love conquers all: Dementia doesn’t diminish love for 3 Murrieta couples

MURRIETA – When Donald McCollough, 85, and Donna McCollough, 81, recited their wedding vows 61 years ago, they promised to love each other through sickness and in health. Donald, who is diagnosed with dementia, and Donna joined two other couples to reaffirm their commitment to love and honor their spouses at a vow renewal at Vineyard Place, an Anthem Memory Care community at 24325 Washington Ave., Murrieta.

“Dementia doesn’t diminish their love. The ceremony brought back good memories for them and reminded them how special it is to be with someone they love despite the challenges,” Christopher Balmes, life engagement director for Vineyard Place, said. “We are honored to be a part of this joyful occasion for these couples.”

Anthem’s core purpose is to protect, engage and love people living with memory loss and is committed to provide understanding and significance to people with Alzheimer’s disease and

other types of dementia. Anthem, based in West Linn, Oregon, operates and develops memory care communities in Arkansas, California, Colorado, Illinois, Kansas, Minnesota, Ohio,

Tennessee and Washington. The company’s website is http:// AnthemMemoryCare.com.

Submitted by Anthem Memory Care. Valley News/Courtesy photos

Vineyard Place residents and family members make Easter eggs for fourth graders to discover

MURRIETA – Fourth graders and older adults with dementia will get a jump start on the “hoppiest” holiday when they shared story time and an Easter egg hunt

Tuesday, March 26, at Vineyard Place, an Anthem Memory Care community at 24325 Washington Ave. in Murrieta. The youngsters, who are students at Cole Canyon Elementary School, will choose their favorite holiday tales to read to the seniors. The residents and families decorated the Easter eggs for the hunt.

“Our seniors are looking forward to sharing these cherished traditions from their past,” Christopher Balmes, life engagement director for Vineyard Place, said. “When the children read aloud to our seniors it will help spark memories and imagination, and it’s a great activity to connect the two generations.”

Anthem’s core purpose is to protect, engage and love people living with memory loss

and is committed to provide understanding and significance to people with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of

dementia. Anthem, based in West Linn, Oregon, operates and develops memory care communities in Arkansas,

team forward with indisputable ardor.

Despite succumbing to a third consecutive defeat, Temescal Canyon played high caliber baseball. JT Carlile and Anthony Deleon stood out as Temescal Canyon’s bats were not silent as they struck five doubles, a seasonal best, hinting at the potential for redemption in games to come.

California, Colorado, Illinois, Kansas, Minnesota, Ohio, Tennessee and Washington. The company’s website is ht tp://

AnthemMemoryCare.com

Submitted by Vineyard Place.

the Mountain Pass League. With an 11-0-1 overall season record and an 8-0 standing in league play, the Titans are averaging 8.5 runs per game highlighting their formidable batting line-up.

The Tahquitz Titans are also a team to beat as they are coming off a formidable 10-0 shutout against the Perris Panthers. Consistently outperforming and outscoring their adversaries by significant margins, Tahquitz maintains their stature as an unstoppable force in

Ayden Harrison of Paloma Valley leads the league with a .409 batting average with 18 hits in 44 at bats while teammate Joey Davis is hitting .405 with 15 hits in 37 at bats. As for pitchers in the Ivy League, despite being in last place, it is Kana Schanz of Riverside Poly with 0.49 ERA over 28.1 innings pitched while his teammate Danny Bedford is delivering a 0.93 ERA over 30.0 innings pitched. Chapman Weber of Paloma Valley has a 1.06 ERA over 26.1 innings pitched.

The Tahquitz Titans prepare to battle it out against Liberty this week, whose commendable record at just one game behind, only fuels the anticipation for an epic clash. Meanwhile, the Panthers will host San Jacinto Valley Academy, primed to protect their home turf.

Send sports updates to sports@ reedermedia.com

TEAMS from page C-4

Tyler Fiallos of Tahquitz High School delivers a pitch during a recent Mountain Pass League game.

Valley News/Courtesy photo

Vineyard Place resident Donald McCullough of Murrieta renews his vows with wife Donna after 61 years together through sickness and in health.

Rosalinda and Johnson Espino, resident of Vineyard Place in Murrieta, reaffirm their commitment to love and honor each other.

Stephanie Bosh, resident of Vineyard Place in Murrieta, and her husband Sean join their daughter Miko for their vow renewal.

Hideko Bowden and daughter Cynthia Bowden-Woods fill Easter eggs at Vineyard Place, an Anthem Memory Care community in Murrieta, in preparation for a visit from fourth grade students from Cole Canyon Elementary School, Tuesday, March 26.

Donald Edwards and Donna Edwards fill Easter eggs with treats. Valley News/Courtesy photos

Highway Updates

Motorists on state and federal highways are warned ‘Traffic Fines are Doubled in Work Zones’

Tony Ault Staff Writer

With many California Department of Transportation, Riverside County Transportation Commission projects and Temecula and Menifee highway and freeway improvements occurring in Southwest Riverside County, additional traffic patrols of those projects are made by the California Highway Patrol.

Drivers are warned as they approach many of these projects that normal traffic fines may be doubled in those zones. Since 1999 this law has been in effect, suggest that if a driver in a construction zone is speeding, driving aggressively, texting or is otherwise distracted through a work zone, they could face a fine of $1,000 or more.

For example: a person stopped and cited by the CHP or other traffic enforcement agency for speeding (22362CV) 400 feet from a construction zone could be faced with a very large fine and much higher insurance premiums in the future.

There are some highway projects that are continuing on major city streets and the warning should be heeded for the safety of work crews, pedestrians and other motorists on that roadway.

Several of those projects are listed below.

Hemet Caltrans continues work

on a $51.6 million corridor improvement project on SR74 (Florida Ave.) in Hemet. The project will repave and rehabilitate 49 lane miles, install Traffic Management Systems, upgrade curb ramps, sidewalks and driveways to Americans with Disabilities Act standards, enhance bike lane signage and striping, and upgrade 29 bus pads within the project parameters. Weather permitting.

The work zone is in and near Hemet on SR-74 from Winchester Road to Fairview Avenue for the project length of 11.2 miles. Expect delays during nighttime operations. Use alternate routes to avoid any delays. Driveway, curb ramp, sidewalk construction and micro trenching will take place throughout the week if weather permits. Other work throughout the work zone includes pothole repairs, much welcomed by drivers along that highway. Watch for alternate route signage for business access. Regular hours include day and nighttime operations, SundayThursday from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. Both Hemet Police traffic officers, the CHP and Sheriff’s officers will patrol this highway.

Aguana and Anza Caltrans continues work on the $5.2 million slurry seal and rumble strips maintenance project on State Route 371 from Aguanga through Anza in Riverside County. Crews continue work in various locations

on SR-371 from the junction of State Route 79 and SR-371 to the junction of State Route 74 and SR-371. Work is weather and temperature dependent. This project is expected to be complete by late winter 2024.

Hours of operation are MondaySaturday, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Watch for intermittent short term lane closures throughout the project zone. Speed limits are reduced throughout the construction zone. The California Highway Patrol will be on scene to assist with traffic control and safety.

Wildomar

Caltrans is alerting the public that construction will be taking place in the City of Wildomar on the I-15 South offramp from Bundy Canyon Road to the Olive Street bridge. Daytime operations scheduled Monday-Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. All work is dependent on the contractor receiving proper materials for each job function. It can be changed or canceled at any time. Work includes installing a guardrail system and terminal end system along the roadway. Right shoulder will be closed. Watch for signage alerting motorists of upcoming lane closures and construction zones. Drivers should anticipate traffic delays and plan ahead. The CHP and Sheriff’s officers will be on patrol in this area.

Murrieta/Temecula

Caltrans is alerting the public

Brunch program to feature the Hula

FALLBROOK – The Fallbrook Women’s Connection presents a professional Hula dance group and brunch at the ballroom of the Beverly Mansion at the Grand Tradition Estate & Gardens, Friday, April 19 from 10 a.m. to noon.

For the program, Halau Hula O Kanoelani Hula group will be performing some authentic island dances with four professional dancers. Lia Kamminga, AnaMarie, Trish Gundy and Maggie Raskopf. Guest speaker Maggie Raskopf, dance school owner, mentor, counselor to foster youth, shares her story “Finding my Voice.” She was born on the tropical island of Guam and though she lives here on the mainland, she stays

that construction will be taking place in the cities of Murrieta and Temecula. Daytime operations are scheduled Monday-Friday from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. Commuter access remains from the I-15 from SR-79 to Kalmia St. The crews will be working on installing trash capture devices. Watch for signage alerting motorists of upcoming lane closures and construction zones. Drivers should anticipate traffic delays and plan ahead. All work is dependent on the contractor receiving proper materials for each job function. It can be changed or canceled at any time. Murrieta Police, the CHP and Sheriff’s Department will be patrolling this area. Lake Elsinore Caltrans is working on SR74 (Ortega Highway) from the Riverside and Orange County border to Monte Vista Street just west of Lake Elsinore. Crews are performing work in various locations throughout the project zone. One-way traffic control with escorts will be in place from 8 p.m. to 9:59 p.m. During the hours of 10 p.m. to 5 a.m., the route will be closed to through traffic. Residents and commuters will need to utilize the alternate routes to go around the closure each night beginning at 10 p.m. Access through the work zone will be prohibited during the previously stated hours. This area is mainly patrolled by the CHP. Work will take place nightly,

connected to her culture through her accessories and love of dance, specifically Hula. Raskopf says, “You can take the girl from the island, but you can’t take the island from the girl!” She is very involved in her dance school and its ministry, to educate, inspire and entertain audiences of all ages. She is also a mentor and counselor working with Royal Family Kids Camp, to foster youth. Also visiting, for the first time, Little Yummies on-line bakery will be selling homemade tropical creations (doors open at 9:15 for cookie shopping). Custom cookie baker Nancie Alcock, is known for her whimsical cookies, “Little Yummies.” Alcock is a glass and ceramic artist who fell in love

east of the county line on SR-74, Monday-Friday. Weeknight work is weather dependent and subject to change or cancellation at any time. Residents on Tenaja Truck Trail or west of Tenaja Truck Trail, including the Ortega Oaks RV Park and Campground and The Candy Store, will be directed to Lake Elsinore, and will not be given access to go through to Orange County during the hours of 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. Residents at Long Canyon and Decker Canyon will be directed to Lake Elsinore and will not be given access to go through to Orange County during the hours of 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.

RCTC project

RCTC, in partnership with Caltrans, is continuing its final work on building the truck lanes by widening a 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. Some ramp closures may still be possible as this work continues to improve the safety on this highway with CHP standing by to assist.

The project is within mountainous terrain with a curving alignment and steep grades. The project was designed to improve safety and efficiency of travel between the Coachella Valley and western Riverside County.

Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com

with sugar and butter and married her love with her art.

The cost per ticket is $30, cash or check, which includes a delicious brunch prepared by The Grand Tradition, 220 Grand Tradition Way, located at the corner of South Mission Road and Grand Tradition Way . Free child care will be provided for younger children with reservations which are encouraged. To make a reservation, call Ginny at 760-723-3633 or email Fallbrookcwc@gmail. com Sponsored by Stonecroft Ministries.

Submitted by Fallbrook Women’s Connection

San Bernardino National Forest seeks concessionaire for campgrounds, day use sites

SAN BERNARDINO – The

San Bernardino National Forest started the process for solicitation of proposals for a concession special use permit for recreation facilities on the Front Country and Mountaintop Ranger districts with the publication of a prospectus.

The offering includes 33 campgrounds and six day-use sites located on the two ranger districts.

Prospective applicants can find detailed information on this business opportunity, USDA Forest Service concession program and policies, the special use permit, and the application process

by reviewing the prospectus posted on SAM.gov at https:// sam.gov/opp/c0545627965942 eabc0930b204ebb36b/view

Information is also available on the forest’s website at https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/ sbnf/?cid=FSEPRD1168271

Applicants must submit the required processing fee and business plan evaluation fee with their proposal. All prospective applicants are advised to read the prospectus carefully. Applicants must submit one hard copy and one electronic copy of their application package. Applications must be

received by close of business at 4:30 p.m., June 17. A site tour is scheduled for May 15 with a required RSVP by May 1.

Following the process, it is expected a permit will be issued and operations to begin by January 2025.

For questions, comments or concerns regarding the opportunity, or to RSVP to the site tour, contact Joseph Martin at joseph.martin@ usda.gov

Submitted by U.S. Forest Service.

Halau Hula O Kanoelani Hula group will perform some authentic island dances with four professional dancers at the Fallbrook Women’s Connection brunch, April 19. Valley News/Courtesy photo

The San Bernardino National Forest starts the process for solicitation of proposals for a concession special use permit for recreation facilities on the Front Country and Mountaintop Ranger districts including Big Bear Lake. Valley News/Emma Rosas photo

California insurance market ‘in chaos,’ says former insurance chief. Can this chief fix it?

Levi Sumagaysay

CalMatters.org

With more California homeowners just discovering their insurance policies are getting canceled — and hundreds of thousands of others stuck with a pricey option of last resort — state Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara’s efforts to fix the home insurance market can’t come quickly enough.

Lara has introduced two main regulations, with more to come. The first , unveiled last month, aims to streamline rate reviews. State law gives the Insurance Department the power to approve or deny insurers’ requests to raise premiums. Insurance companies complain the process has been holding up the increases they seek as a result of what they say are increased costs due to rising climate-change risks and inflation.

The second regulation will let insurers use catastrophe modeling — which combines historical data with projected risk and losses — along with other factors when setting their premiums. California is the last state to allow for catastrophe modeling.

“We’re undertaking the state’s largest insurance reform,” Lara said during a press conference earlier this month. “We can no longer look solely to the past to guide us to the future.”

He said catastrophe modeling will lead to “more reliable rates,” “greater insurance availability” and “safer communities,” because he said it would further encourage and reward wildfire mitigation by homeowners and communities.

Insurance Department spokesperson Michael Soller said success will mean fewer homeowners needing to turn to the FAIR Plan, the state-mandated insurer of last resort.

Insurance trade groups, which stand to benefit most from the new regulations, agree with Lara’s support for catastrophe modeling and support his socalled sustainable insurance strategy. So do fire chiefs, to an extent. But almost everyone else — homeowners, consumer groups and former insurance commissioners — has lingering concerns.

U.S. Rep. John Garamendi, a Democrat representing parts of Solano and Contra Costa counties, had two stints as state insurance commissioner in the mid-1990s and early 2000s. He says the insurance market is “in chaos” — and that Lara should be holding public hearings and demanding insurance company executives testify to explain to Californians why their premiums are rising.

“One of the critical things a commissioner does is to analyze the market and provide the public with information,” Garamendi said in an interview with CalMatters.

“(Lara) didn’t use his power to control the industry and second, to inform Californians.”

The criticism drew a retort from Soller: “Commissioner Lara is fixing decades-long neglected issues that have led to this crisis.

He is focused on safeguarding the integrity of the state’s insurance market, not second-guessing from predecessors who had their chance and failed to act.”

Dave Winnacker, chief of the East Bay’s Moraga-Orinda Fire District, said the upsides of catastrophe modeling include being able to credit what homeowners, communities and governments do to lessen wildfire risk. That includes being able to account for the numbers and proximity of firefighters in certain areas, Winnacker said.

“Depending on where you are in a state, and that’s tied to population density, the number of firefighters available could affect the outcome (of a wildfire),” he said, adding that catastrophe models should reflect that.

He also said he and other fire chiefs are working to make sure the interests of consumers, fire professionals, insurers and the state are aligned. Insurers may not know what homeowners, communities and local fire departments are doing to reduce wildfire risk.

One idea: a database to share that information.

“There is no future in which we can price our way out of this crisis with just premiums,” Winnacker said, adding that everyone needs to work together.

Dave Jones, the state insurance commissioner for eight years before Lara took over in 2019, said he is “trying to avoid looking over the shoulder of my successor.”

Jones is now director of the

Climate Risk Initiative Center for Law, Energy & the Environment at UC Berkeley School of Law. He said it is good for consumers that the catastrophe-modeling regulation could take forest management into consideration. But he said he’s not sure Lara’s actions will be sufficient.

Before the end of the year, Lara is also expected to issue a regulation that will allow insurers to factor reinsurance costs into their rates. Reinsurance is insurance for insurance companies in the event of large payouts. That plus the other new regulations may “help in the short to mid term,” giving insurance companies the ability to raise premiums, Jones told CalMatters.

But he said those actions may “ultimately be overwhelmed by our failure to stop the fossil-fuel industry, which is contributing to rising temperatures” and therefore insurance losses.

Jones also pointed out that Florida has long allowed insurers to use catastrophe modeling and has let them factor in reinsurance costs in their rates — yet its insurance market is in worse shape than California’s.

“Florida has done what insurers are asking for,” Jones said. Yet “Florida’s rates are three or four times the national average.”

Mark Friedlander, spokesperson for the Insurance Information Institute, an industry group, confirmed that the group estimates that Florida’s average home insurance premium was $6,000, or three-and-a-half times the national average, in 2023.

In addition, Jones said Florida’s version of California’s last-resort FAIR Plan — called the Citizens Property Insurance Corp. because it’s funded with a surcharge on policyholders — has more than 1 million policies. California’s growing FAIR Plan, run by a pool of insurers, has 373,000 policies, its president told state lawmakers

Major bridge collapse in Baltimore after ship collision, several missing

Valley News staff

As of press time Tuesday.

BALTIMORE — A catastrophic event unfolded early Tuesday morning just after 1 a.m. in Baltimore when a major section of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed after being struck by a container ship, sending several vehicles into the Patapsco River below. Rescuers are frantically searching for at least seven individuals amid debris and choppy waters.

The bridge, a crucial artery for East Coast shipping and a key segment of Baltimore’s infrastructure since its inauguration in 1977, was severely damaged when the vessel, identified as The Dali sailing under a Singaporean flag, collided with one of its supports. The impact caused significant sections of the roadway to break apart and fall into the river. Social media footage shows the aftermath of the collision, with the ship catching fire and appearing to sink shortly after the incident.

Maryland Governor Wes

Moore, addressing the incident, highlighted the swift action taken by emergency responders and the strategic halt of bridge traffic, which potentially saved numerous lives. “Our response teams are doing everything in our power to rescue and recover the victims,” Moore stated, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to bring the situation under control.

While initial investigations suggest the collision was accidental, authorities are meticulously examining all angles to ascertain the exact cause. According to officials, there were no reports of individuals in vehicles remaining in the water, though efforts continued to locate and rescue several construction workers who were unaccounted for following the collapse. The water temperature, recorded at 47 degrees at the time of the incident, added a critical layer of urgency to the rescue operations.

Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul Wiedefeld revealed that construction crews were actively working on the bridge when the ship made contact,

recently. “That raises the question,” Jones said. “Giving insurers (higher rates) and shifting the burden to all Californians… whether that’s going to be enough in the face of growing background risk associated with climate change.”

Meanwhile, last week State Farm said that it is not renewing policies for 30,000 California homeowners, as well as refusing to cover all commercial apartments by not renewing 42,000 of those policies.

This is happening despite California approving State Farm’s requests to levy double-digit premium increases last year.

“One of our roles as the insurance regulator is to hold insurance companies accountable for their words and deeds,” said Soller, the Insurance Department spokesperson. “State Farm General’s decision… raises serious questions about its financial situation — questions the company must answer to regulators.”

State Farm spokesperson Sevag Sarkissian would not comment beyond the statement the company put on its website last week, which read in part: “This decision was not made lightly and only after careful analysis of State Farm General’s financial health, which continues to be impacted by inflation, catastrophe exposure, reinsurance costs, and the limitations of working within decades-old insurance regulations.”

Sarkissian also referred CalMatters to the Personal Insurance Federation of California, which counts State Farm as a member. The industry group’s president, Rex Frazier, said in an email last week that allowing insurers to use catastrophe modeling would help with insurance availability. Yet in its statement, State Farm acknowledged the actions Lara is taking to try to fix the insurance availability and affordability crisis in California, even as it announced its decision not to renew tens of thousands of homeowners.

Joyce Kaufman, a retiree in June Lake in Mono County, recently got a notice of non-renewal for her homeowners insurance with Farmers, which she said she and her husband were dreading but expecting. “I’m not really sure what the

state’s trying to do, both at the commissioner and legislative level,” Kaufman said. And losing the ability to renew her policy is affecting her other insurance needs, she said. As her broker helps look for an alternative, her auto premium is now going up about $300 a year because it will no longer be bundled with home insurance.

As the new regulations give insurance companies what they had asked for, one part of Lara’s strategy — which he first laid out last year after an executive order by the governor — is conspicuously missing. Lara had said insurance companies would be required “to commit to writing at least 85 percent of their statewide market share in wildfire-distressed underserved areas.”

That provision is nowhere in the text of Lara’s unveiled regulations so far — an omission not lost on consumer groups or former commissioner Jones.

“Where is that 85 percent?” asked Carmen Balber, executive director of Consumer Watchdog. Soller, the Insurance Department’s spokesperson, said that part of the commissioner’s strategy is coming.

Balber also said she is concerned that the catastrophe-modeling regulation “appears to not comply with the transparency requirements of Prop. 103,” the voter-approved law that regulates the insurance industry.

According to the text of the regulation on catastrophe modeling, the public will be able to take part in reviewing catastrophe models before they’re deemed acceptable. But anyone who helps review the models will be required to sign a nondisclosure agreement.

“If a big chunk of your insurance rate is behind a ‘black box,’ then that’s not what the voters passed,” when they passed Proposition 103 in 1988, Balber said. “At the end of the day, if the commissioner passes something that hides something behind closed doors, we’ll have to consider challenging it.”

Levi Sumagaysay covers the economy for CalMatters.

Previously, she was a senior reporter who covered worker issues, the gig economy, inequality and corporate accountability for MarketWatch. © 2024 CalMatters.

complicating the rescue and recovery efforts. In response to the disaster, Governor Moore declared a state of emergency to marshal all available resources towards the rescue efforts and infrastructure recovery.

The Dali, embarking on a 27day voyage to Sri Lanka, met with disaster less than 30 minutes after leaving the port of Baltimore. The ship, nearly 1,000 feet in length, was crewed by two pilots and an unspecified number of personnel, all of whom have been accounted for, according to Grace Ocean Investment, the ship’s owning company.

The incident has raised concerns over maritime safety and infrastructure resilience, with the Francis Scott Key Bridge being a vital link not only for Baltimore but for the entire East Coast’s shipping and transportation network. As the community and state officials rally to respond to this tragedy, the focus remains on the ongoing rescue operations and the investigation into how such a devastating incident occurred.

The remains of a burned home in Berryessa Highlands on Sept. 21, 2020. Photo by Anne Wernikoff for CalMatters

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

Friends of Anza Valley

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 Latterday Saints, 39075 Contreras Road in Anza. Men and women veterans come to share and help each other deal with posttraumatic stress disorder and other difficulties. Call John Sheehan at 951-923-6153. 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.

Free Mobile Health Clinic

– Open every third Wednesday of the month from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. No appointment is needed. Uninsured may only be seen in the Anza Community Hall’s parking lot or inside the hall.

Medication Assistance and Treatment for Opioid Dependence – Get treatment for heroin addiction. Transportation to the clinic is provided. For more information, contact Borrego Health’s Anza Community Health Center, 58581 Route 371, Anza. For more information, 951-763-4759.

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 nonprofi t. All in need are welcome; call Esther Barragan at 951-7635636.

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 951-763-0856.

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

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 951763-2884 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 951-2824267 or email achageneral@ gmail.com or visit www. anzacommunitybuilding.org

Three

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

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

ANZA LOCAL

Sheriff’s Blotter

Diane Sieker

Staff Writer

The Anza Valley Outlook

Sheriff’s Blotter is a list of calls that allows residents to see what law enforcement activity is occurring in their communities.

The Sheriff’s Blotter data is obtained from the official calls for service records kept by the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department. However, calls where the release of the information could cause harm to an individual or jeopardize the investigation of a criminal case are excluded.

All calls listed are for service within the Sheriff’s Department jurisdiction in the unincorporated areas of Anza, Lake Riverside Estates, Cahuilla and Aguanga from March 18 through 24.

March 18

Public disturbance - 4100 ***

block Lakeshore Blvd., Lake Riverside, handled by deputy March 19

Follow up - address withheld, Anza, handled by deputy

Public assist - 4500 *** block

Spanish Spur Trl./Deer Spring Trl., Anza, handled by deputy

March 20

Assist other departmentaddress undefined, Anza, handled by deputy Battery - 4100 *** block Terwilliger Rd., Anza, handled by deputy

Public disturbance - address undefined, Anza, handled by deputy

Burglary - address undefined, Anza, arrest made

Follow up - address withheld, Anza, handled by deputy March 21

Assist other departmentaddress undefined, Anza, handled

by deputy Burglary - 5100 *** block Tule Peak Rd., Anza, report taken

Follow up - address withheld, Anza, handled by deputy

Civil dispute - 4400 *** block St. Hwy. 371, Aguanga, handled by deputy

March 22

Grand theft - 5900 *** block

Gillman Rd., Anza, report taken

Unattended death - address withheld, Aguanga, report taken

Public disturbance - 4200 ***

block Lilac Ln., Anza, handled by deputy

Follow up - address withheld, Anza, handled by deputy

911 call - 4400 *** block St. Hwy. 371, Aguanga, handled by deputy Battery - 5600 *** block St. Hwy. 371 Anza, handled by deputy March 23

Assist other department -

servant to Anza Baptist Church,” said Julie Nevills, wife of Pastor Matthew. “He was a man who truly cared for every person he met and has left behind great shoes to fill. Through God’s strength and Mike Davies’ example, we as a church will strive to fill his shoes of self sacrifice and genuine love.

Mike will be greatly missed by our church and it is a great honor to dedicate our Sunday School Wing as the Mike Davies Children’s Ministry Wing in memory of his dedicated service to this Valley and our church.”

address undefined, Anza, handled by deputy Noise complaint - 3800 *** block Howard Rd., Anza, handled by deputy Man down - 5100 *** block Cahuilla Rd., Cahuilla, handled by deputy Public assist - 3700 *** block Hill St., Anza, handled by deputy

Civil dispute - 5900 *** block Grandon Rd., Anza, handled by deputy Suicide threat - address withheld, Anza, handled by deputy

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

Assist other departmentaddress undefined, Anza, handled by deputy Assist other department - 3700 *** block Bohlen Rd., Anza, handled by deputy March 24

Assist other departmentaddress undefined, Anza, handled by deputy

911 call - 4100 *** block Terwilliger Rd., Anza, handled by deputy Area check - 5200 *** block Cahuilla, Cahuilla, 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

wishers that shared their love and respect for her late husband. She and her family began attending Anza First Southern Baptist Church around 1988, when they first arrived in Anza.

“Mike always had a smile on his face,” said church member Angela Deulen. “He had an uncommon knowledge of education and children. Mike was gripped by the love of God and it showed.”

Davies’ wife Renette attended the event, surrounded by well-

The morning dedication service was followed with a Mexicanthemed lunch served in Thompson Hall. During the meal, church members shared testimonies about how Mike Davies impacted their lives.

“The church needed a youth pastor and Mike’s gifts and personality fit the position and he served there for a number of years,” said Renette. “He taught children’s Sunday School, was the director of the AWANA Kids Club program and he and I served in rotation working in the Sunday church service nursery with the preschoolers and babies.”

When the Davies moved to Anza, Mike worked for a company in Riverside. However, after about a year the State Preschool program began in Anza. He had an early childhood education degree, so applied for the position and was

hired. He also worked at the Headstart preschool program, coached girls varsity softball, girls volleyball and boys basketball. He went back to school for his regular teaching credential to teach kindergarten and eventually get his master’s degree in education. He was a kindergarten teacher at Hamilton Elementary School until his retirement in 2019.

“If there were church socials or potlucks, after meal time was done and everyone was just socializing, if you couldn’t find Mike, you just had to let your ear lead you to where the kids were playing and that’s where you’d find him. Oh, how he loved children,” said Renette.

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

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

Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo

DAVIES from page D-1

Anza First Southern Baptist Church Pastor Matthew Nevills says kind words about Mr. Davies as he dedicates the church’s Children’s Ministry Wing to him Sunday, March 17. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photos

The plaque dedicating the Anza First Southern Baptist Church’s Children’s Ministry Wing features a photo of Mike Davies and a Bible verse.

ARREST from page D-1 Road. Riverside County Sheriff’s Aviation Unit was overhead.”

Anyone with information regarding this crime is encouraged to contact the Hemet Sheriff’s Station at 951-791-3400 or visit http://www.riversidesheriff.org

“They decided it was a good idea to burglarize a cell carrier site in Aguanga then flee from deputies,” said a post on the Hemet Sheriff’s Station Facebook page regarding

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

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Please don’t wait, this is important and timely, we need our community to stand with us while we report truthfully the news of our day.

- Sandi,” she explained. “I can’t let our community down when our products and services are so important to the residents. Our customer database is over 850 strong. We’ll rebrand, improve and grow even better in the coming years.”

BIZASSIST from page D-1 always been available, but more focused promotions like computer research, family genealogy booklets and PowerPoint presentations can pique customers’ interest about projects they’ve not considered possible,” Hughes said. “There are so many ways to engage our tools. We have barely tapped the surface of our potential.”

Vibrant new outdoor signage is also in the works, designed by Hughes.

Additions to the company’s brand will offer new diversity like customized greeting cards, a Resume Center and branding tools such as AI-generated graphics (using artificially intelligent apps), pen and ink illustrations, and professional press releases, Hughes said.

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Sandi’s BizAssist welcomes the community’s suggestions and questions, and wants people to know that the company is here for them.

Sandi’s BizAssist does copying, faxing/emailing, scanning, produces promotional print media including business cards, flyers, brochures, banners, signage, printed documentation and presentations like newsletters,

PowerPoint presentations, and stapled booklets; offers secretarial services like typing, data entry, filing, and comb binding; is a licensed Notary Public, and offers over 50 years’ experience in custom graphic design and photo retouching.

Visit Sandi’s BizAssist on Facebook at https:// www. facebook.com/SandisBizAssist? mibextid=ZbWKwL

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Gregory Stires, 59-year-old resident of Rialto and Edward Galway, 45-year-old resident of Fontana have been charged with multiple felonies.

Sheriff’s deputies apprehend this and other suspects allegedly burglarizing an Aguanga cell tower Wednesday, March 20.

Anza Valley Outlook/Courtesy photos Damage to the cell tower is apparent after an alledged burglary attempt by three men Wednesday, March 20.

A suspect’ s truck is loaded with objects taken from the cell tower Wednesday, March 20.

Interfaith Council presents annual Night of Music: Songs for Peace and Unity

TEMECULA -- The Interfaith Council will present its annual Night of Music, themed “Songs for Peace and Unity.” This event will take place on Sunday, April

Rancho United in Temecula. Featuring a stellar lineup of local talent, the Night of Music will be an evening of harmony and community spirit. Headlining the event is the jazz artist, Sherry Williams, whose mesmerizing performances have captivated audiences across the region.

Joining Sherry Williams are

talented musicians representing a diverse range of genres, including hip hop, soul, R&B, and faithbased music. From the sing along sounds of Beer and Hymns to the sweet melodies of youth choirs and bell choirs, this concert will showcase the rich tapestry of musical talent within our community.

More than just a concert, the Night of Music holds a deeper purpose: to promote peace, unity, and humanitarian aid. Proceeds from the event will benefit the International Red

Cross, supporting their critical humanitarian efforts around the globe.

“All are welcome to join us for this special evening of music and solidarity,” says Allison, the chair of this year’s event. “In a world facing so many challenges, music has the power to bring us together, to uplift our spirits, and to inspire positive change. Together, we can make a difference.”

The Interfaith Council, guided by its mission to promote interfaith cooperation and foster a more equitable society, invites people

of all beliefs, backgrounds, and walks of life to come together in the spirit of mutual respect and compassion. Admission to the Night of Music is free, offering an opportunity for everyone to experience the transformative power of music and community. Donations are welcome! Mark your calendars and spread the word. This is an event you won’t want to miss.

Rancho United is located at 31300 Rancho Community Way in Temecula. The Interfaith Council is a

diverse coalition of individuals and faith-based organizations committed to promoting interfaith cooperation, ending religiously motivated prejudice, and advocating for human rights and justice for all. Embracing the values of respect, compassion, and equality, the Interfaith Council seeks to be a unifying force in our community, fostering understanding and collaboration among people of different backgrounds and beliefs.

Legal Advertising

Run your legal notices in the Anza Valley Outlook, adjudicated for Riverside County.

n Application Order for Publication of Summons/Citation ..........$400 for 4 Weeks

n Notice of Petition to Administer Estate ....................................$300 for 3 Weeks

n Order to Show Cause for Change of Name................................. $90 for 4 Weeks

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Deadline: Fridays at 3pm for following week’s publication.

AnzA VAlley OUTLOOK

To advertise call our office at 951-763-5510 or email legals@reedermedia.com

APRIL 12

Selena Tribute

Showtime: 8PM

APRIL 19

by Anything for Salinas

General Admission $25

APRIL 26

Tribute

by 7 Summers

Showtime: 8PM • $25

Morgan Wallen

APRIL 20

Michael Jackson Tribute

by This Was It

Showtime: 8PM • $25

Bruno Mars

Tribute by 24K Magic!

Showtime: 8PM · $25

APRIL 28

Grupo Casificado

Showtime: 8PM

Tickets $55/$45

MAY 3

Journey Tribute by Journeymen

Showtime: 8PM · $25