Valley News - April 12, 2024

Bomb threat leads to school lockdown in Menifee

Kim Harris Special to Valley News

Reports of a bomb threat at a Menifee charter school led to a lockdown and school closure while officers worked to investigate the threat, Monday, April 8.

DigiFest Temecula returns to JDS Creative Academy, sparking creativity this spring

Karlee Skipper Special to Valley News

JDS Creative Academy will host the eighth annual DigiFest Temecula 2024 three-day signature event Friday through Sunday, April 19-21. This multimedia event celebrates the nonprofit’s mission to advance education, training, and opportunities in visual, performing and digital arts. DigiFest is so much more than a film festival.

Creators across the digital media spectrum are given the opportunity to showcase their work while attendees immerse themselves in engaging presentations and hands-on workshops, as well as connecting with like-minded artists and reveling in the excitement of earning prestigious awards.

to that problem, Lake Elsinore Mayor Steve Manos said. “We are cautiously optimistic,” Manos said, adding that the city got a good amount of new water thanks to winter rains but that the new water doesn’t always translate into better water quality.

lake. Lake Elsinore, which has a maximum depth of 40 feet, has no outflow for the water leading to algae blooms and high levels of toxins from those blooms making it unsafe for people and pets to go into the water which in turn results in numerous

MilVet’s Raven Hilden honored as Riverside County 3rd District ‘Woman of the Year’

Raven Hilden, founder and CEO of MilVet, was honored as Riverside County 3rd District’s “Woman of the Year” during a special presentation at the Thursday, April 4, Menifee City Council meeting.

Third District Supervisor Chuck Washington made a rare appearance at the Menifee City Council to make the presentation to Hilden who makes her home in Menifee. Washington, in presenting the proclamation to Hilden said, “This is the woman more than 15 years ago that was looking for a way to give back to the community. Looking for a way to be a good volunteer and good public servant in the community. Did she find it? Yes, and she made veterans a centerpiece in her efforts, and she affected so many lives in doing so (in founding nonprofit MilVet).”

MilVet headquarters is at 33040 Antelope Road, Suite 114, in Murrieta. The organization’s primary mission is sending care packages to service members stationed overseas and helping provide for the needs of their families in the community.

Hilden also received a proclamation from Menifee Mayor Bill Zimmerman and the council for her work with MilVet for helping military service members in the Menifee community.

Hilden said, “I am incredibly honored and humbled, especially coming from Supervisor Washington who has served his country and dedicated his life to his community all these years.”

She credited him with welcoming her to the community years ago and receiving inspiration to begin her long service in the community and its veterans.

She took time to credit her team at MilVet who help keep everything running smoothly at the

organization. Many of the MilVet team members and veterans who were helped were at the meeting.

In another presentation, Menifee declared April as the California Department of Vehicles’ Donate for Life month, ambassadored by Legacy for Life representative Erika Heranic who herself is the the recipient of a heart transplant donated by a young man killed in an auto accident who left his organs to others after his death.

Heranic showed a photo of the young man who saved her life with an organ transplant as well as others in need of other organs.

She showed a slide presentation that in 2023 there were 5,290 organ transplants from DMV/Donate for Life donors, yet there were still 21,010 waiting for transplants. She pleaded with all who have not signed up with the DMV to donate their organs in the event of death and place that notification on their driver’s licenses.

In regular Menifee City Council business, a consent item seeking the approval of $91,801 for a Gale Webb Action Sports Park Restrooms Project was delayed in lieu of the city staff looking into getting a grant to provide the very busy sports park a new full service restroom with sewer services. The proposed vaulted restroom would have to be pumped out twice a month. The request to look into other ways to finance possible permanent restrooms, already served by portable restrooms at the facility, was made by Council member Lesa Sobek. The council unanimously voted to give the staff a few weeks to see if there were other avenues to finance permanent restrooms. Council discussion moved on to a possible property tax exemption for disabled veterans. The council learned there are state programs for 100% disabled veterans which number 1,400 in Menifee. The

state allows those 100% disabled veterans owning homes to exempt $170,000 to $254,000 off their home values. The only portion of the property tax the city receives, which is 13% ad valorem, might be changed or discounted.

Two veterans spoke noting there are actually about 8,100 vets in Menifee eligible for the state’s exemption with only 1,400 taking advantage of it.

Council member Ricky Estrada gave several ways the city might reduce the ad valorem tax the city receives from veterans based on the veterans’ percentage of disabilities or a 10% discount for all veterans, disabled or not. Zimmerman and Sobek indicated the subject of more veteran discounts might be reviewed with veterans themselves in a veterans advisory committee the city is in the process of forming since the city is “Veteran Friendly.” Mayor Pro Tem Dean Deines saw merit in offering more veteran discounts so long as it didn’t affect the city revenues. “Lets see what the costs are,” Deines, a veteran himself, said. Council member Bob Karwin suggested a city veteran ad hoc committee to look at the possibilities to help military families serving as a liaison group. Further conversation on the subject may come during the next meeting when a veterans advisory commission is being proposed.

The preservation of rural and historic areas in the city was also discussed. Historic areas are listed in the General Plan to protect those areas. The General Plan also establishes historic monuments in those areas in the city, but does not have any particular restrictions as a historic area other than state and federal historic area resources. Historic ordinances were to be discussed providing ways to preserve those areas. The problems that might be created by the ordinances were discussed by the staff. No action was taken on the subject that evening. Tony Ault can be reached by email at tault@reedermedia.com. Legado Project on Encanto Drive and Rouse Road. Traffic control will be in place.

Tony Ault Staff Writer

Riverside County 3rd District Supervisor Chuck Washington congratulates Raven Hilden, founder and CEO of MilVet, for being named his district’s Woman of the Year for her organization’s extensive work to help deployed overseas servicemembers and their families during the Menifee City Council meeting Thursday, April 4. Valley News/Tony Ault photos

Raven Hilden, founder and CEO of MilVet, holds a certificate of recognition from Menifee with her MilVet workers and the city council recognizing her efforts in helping local veterans and their families in the city.

The Menifee City Council presents Legacy for Life ambassador Erika Heranic for urging the public to donate their organs at the time of death to needy patients through the California Department of Vehicles Donate for Life Program on drivers licenses. Heranic herself is a recipient of a donated heart from a young man in the photo being held who died in an accident.

Aquablation therapy is a robotic procedure that removes prostate tissue using the power of water. The treatment is performed in a hospital and is done under anesthesia. The procedure typically takes less than an hour and involves an overnight stay.

Aquablation therapy is the only procedure that uses a camera (cystoscope) in combination with ultrasound imaging to view the prostate. This enables the surgeon to see the entire prostate so he or she can create a surgical map of the areas of the prostate to remove and those to avoid. In every other available surgical procedure, the surgeon’s view of the prostate is limited to a single camera (cystoscope). This limits the surgeon’s ability to see the parts of the prostate that control erectile function, ejaculatory function, and incontinence.

0% impact on erectile function, orgasmic function, sexual desire, intercourse satisfaction or overall sexual satisfaction

Low rates of irreversible complications

View of the entire prostate with ultrasound imaging heat-free waterjet technology.

~90% of men with BPH preserve ejaculatory function with Aquablation therapy

Confidence in the procedure

This robotic technology minimizes human error in removing prostate tissue and ensures the tissue is removed precisely.

Prostates come in all shapes and sizes.

Comprehensive Adult & Pediatric Urology

• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

• Bladder & Kidney Stones

• Urinary Incontinence, Pelvic Floor Disorders

• Female Urology

• Robotic Assisted Laparoscopic Surgery

99%

of men with BPH did not have incontinence after Aquablation therapy

Long-term relief

In clinical studies, Aquablation therapy has been shown to provide long-term relief at three years.

• Urological Services Offered:

• Comprehensive Cancer Care (Prostate, Kidney, Bladder and Testicular)

• Cryoblation of the Prostate

• Lapraroscopic radical and partial Nephrectomy and Laparoscopic Kidney Reconstruction

• Sacral Nerve Implants

• Laser Stone Surgery and Medical Stone Treatments

• No-scalpel Vasectomy and Vasectomy Reversals

• Pediatric Urology

L-R: Benjamin Larson, M.D., F.A.C.S., Sreenivas Vemulapalli, M.D., F.A.C.S., Monisha Crisell, M.D., F.A.C.S., Richard Conner, M.D., F.A.C.S., Philip Brodak, M.D., F.A.C.S. and new to the group, Varun Talanki, M.D. and Nemi M. Shah, M.D. Urogynecologist

Bomb threat leads to school lockdown in Menifee

Kim Harris Special to Valley News

Reports of a bomb threat at a Menifee charter school led to a lockdown and school closure while officers worked to investigate the threat, Monday, April 8.

According to a news release issued by Menifee Police spokesperson Chase Coburn, Menifee PD responded to the call at Santa Rosa Academy, at 27587 La Piedra Road, at about 11:10 a.m. and immediately put the campus on lockdown out of an “abundance of caution” while the threat was investigated.

“Our dispatch center was quickly able to identify that the number associated with the threat had a history of previous Swatting calls,” Coburn said.

Menifee police took to social media throughout the length of the incident to keep the community informed saying that school administrators and police were “on

campus working together to safely escort students and staff away from the school.” Coburn said the campus remained on lockdown while officers conducted a search of the school and surrounding area to ensure the safety of all students and staff.

The campus which serves about 1,500 K-12 students, was declared safe shortly before 1 p.m. and the school canceled classes for the remainder of the day.

“Once the campus was deemed safe, officers and school officials began their reunification protocol to reunite parents with their children,” Coburn said.

The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department and Cal Fire also responded to the scene, Coburn said.

An investigation into the threat continues and anyone with information regarding the incident, should contact the Menifee Police Department at 951-723-1500.

Kim Harris can be reached at kharris@reedermedia.com.

LOCAL

STAT Horse Sanctuary fundraiser dance and party held at Murrieta’s Cove Bar & Grill

Tony Ault Staff Writer

The sounds of whoops, hollers and line dancing music filled the Cove Bar & Grill in Murrieta as guests attended a fundraiser on Saturday, April 6, that helped the STAT Horse Sanctuary in its move to a new location in Winchester.

The STAT Horse Sanctuary managed by Pattie Roberts, founder and director, is a place where old and no longer rideable horses can live out their lives while still helping those with disabilities, PTSD and other mental problems find peace in the form of what she calls “Carrot Therapy.”

Roberts said there are 20 old horses, a number of goats, chickens and other farm animals to care for at STAT’s new 20-acre location at 32600 Flight Way in Winchester after moving from their old location on Scott Road. STAT is a nonprofit organization that depends upon corporate and community donations and is staffed by a corps of volunteers who help with the horses and give them companionship and to help other people in need of therapy. Roberts, who has managed the ranch for the horses and other animals for 17 years, said, “We are totally staffed by volunteers and supported by donations.” She said the horses at the ranch are retired show horses who were once champions. “We use most of them for therapy. We work with the special needs community. There are a few services for kids but not much for adults with special needs. That is kind of our focus.”

She does most of the medical care for the horses. “We unfortunately don’t have a vet that sponsors us, so I do it,” Roberts said. “I give my own shots and treat injuries.”

The horses at STAT do receive some of the best feed and grooming care from the volunteers. She said the cost to feed each horse and provide supplements each month is about $200. That cost comes from donations and special

event will be held in Temecula and this year will feature an allwomen veteran’s guitar building workshop. Women veterans in attendance will build an electric guitar during the event, which will be held at Total Online Protection shop at 24803 Felix Valdez, Ste. A in Temecula. Total Online Protection is owned by Navy Veteran and American Patriot Band guitar player Mike Tassineri who said he “totally supports” what APMP does.

“I think they do a lot of great things and so when the chance came up for me to host one of these guitar builds I jumped on it,” Tassineri said, adding that he had been wanting to be a part of the guitar builds, something he is now able to do thanks to the success of his business to date.

“We’ve been lucky, business has been doing pretty well so we like to give back if we can,” he said. “We are so looking forward to it.”

Scheduled for April 26 through 28, there is no cost for veterans to attend the event, only a commitment of eight hours a day, the American Patriot Music Project said.

APMP President and Chairman Tony Villegas said that the guitar

Roberts said monetary and feed donations are welcome at the nonprofit and can be made online at STATHorseSanctuary.org. There are also sponsorship opportunities for the different needs at the ranch, insurance and veterinarian help. Currently STAT is in need of tractor work, corrals, shelters and an arena at their new location. They are in their last week of the move from their former location that has been put up for sale by the owners.

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

Murrieta Mayor Lori Stone and former Murrieta Mayor Jonathan Ingram line dance with Pattie Roberts, founder and director of STAT Horse Sanctuary, at the Cove Bar & Grill in Murrieta, April 6. Valley News /Courtesy photo fundraising events like the one at the Cove. Those attending the Cove fundraiser included a number of Murrieta and Wildomar city and chamber of commerce officials who in the past have recognized the STAT as Nonprofit Organization of the Year and Roberts as Citizen of the Year. Murrieta Mayor Lori Stone and former Murrieta Mayor Jonathan Ingram took part in the activities. Members of the Winchester community were also in attendance. Providing line dancing instruction and announcing was Nita Dancing Fun who delighted in leading the fun. Participants had an opportunity to win up to $500 in raffle prizes and a 50/50 drawing. The Cove Bar & Grill also donated 20% of each participant’s meal purchased during the fourhour event.

building workshops, where each veteran will learn to construct, finish, and set up an electric guitar over a 3-day period, helps veterans to rebuild “life success skills, business soft skills and workforce skills.

“We are not just building guitars we are re-building our veterans,” Villegas said. “This event provides time to connect with other veterans, through a common activity they will share and specific training in the crafting of an instrument. To fund the workshop, APMP is asking for donations.

“We are close to reaching the goal of $10,000 that will fund the workshop,” APMP said. “Your donation of any amount would provide the materials needed to help a veteran build a guitar and be in community with other veterans.”

For more information on the event, including how to support the American Patriot Music Project, visit them online at http://americanpatriotmusic.org, call 909-9082480 or send an email to tony@ americanpatriotmusic.org.

LOCAL

Ivan Holler honored on his retirement as Murrieta’s Assistant Manager at the Murrieta City Council meeting

years, made an impression on the residents and officials of Murrieta, helping pave the way for seeing the expansion of the Kaiser Permanente Medical Campus, CarMax coming into the city, the reopening of Murrieta Hot Springs and many other projects. He was particularly active in forwarding many water projects in the city over the years through his affiliation on many Riverside County commissions and boards. Holler officially left his post Thursday, April 4.

The Murrieta City Council chambers was filled with many of Holler’s friends and officials who presented him with certificates of appreciation, gifts and well wishes on his retirement. Included in wishing him well were representatives of state congressional members, Riverside County 3rd District Supervisor Chuck Washington, Randon Lane, former U.S. Transportation official, representatives from four water districts, Kim Summers, members of the city council and public safety officers. Praises for his work came from the members of the City Council. Mayor Lori Stone said, “You were my rock.” Council member Lisa DeForest said, “You have a can-do attitude.”

Council member Ron Holiday said, “You epitomize public service.” Council member Jon Levell said, “You always have a positive attitude.”

Mayor Pro Tem Cindy Warren said she agreed with all the other members in highlighting his dedicated service. Holler and his wife were also presented with a gold watch, flowers and a street sign with his name on it for his retirement from the city and a bottle of wine from the Murrieta/Wildomar Chamber of Commerce that brought a smile to Holler’s face.

In other regular business, the council approved 12 consent items and pulled one concerning the Murrieta Police Department’s proposed purchase of three police vehicles from a Colorado car dealership and additional equipment for $145,720 that would come from the department’s own budget. It was pulled after Terry Gilmore, from Paradise Chevrolet, questioned the purchase of the Ford Interceptor cars from the out-of-state dealer instead of from the local car dealers.

Murrieta police Chief Anthony Conrad said their car of choice was very hard to get and not available in the local community, which was

the reason for the proposed outof-state purchase. Gilmore said he would see to it that the required cars would be available locally for purchase if the council and the police department would give him time to come up with them. The council unanimously agreed to give Gilmore and the local dealers a few weeks to locate and make available for purchase the proposed Ford Interceptor cars from a local dealer in the Valley.

The council approved an increase in the city employee salary schedules for the year with an amendment and approved $21,305.87 in property tax levies on three properties that had to be cleaned up by the city. The property owners did not respond to multiple notifications to clean up their properties before the city made the cleanup. One property at 29500 Via Princessa may be faced with bankruptcy which may not affect the tax levy.

Stone and Holliday were appointed to the Code Enforcement Policy Ad Hoc Subcommittee while Stone and Warren were appointed to the Southwest Riverside County Elected Leaders Collaborative.

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

Murrieta City Assistant Manager Ivan Holler retires. Valley News/Courtesy photo Tony Ault Staff Writer

A large turnout of city, county and state officials turned out at the Murrieta City Council to wish retiring Murrieta City Assistant Manager Ivan Hollar the best in his future Tuesday, April 2. Holler, who has served as the assistant city manager to City Manager Kim Summers for the past nine

LOCAL

Major ‘Menifee Better Together’ community event coming April 22

Tony Ault Staff Writer

The Menifee Better Together event promises to bring hundreds of community volunteers together Saturday, April 22, providing opportunities for Menifee neighbors to help neighbors by revitalizing senior homes, park and historical monuments, assembling and handing out “You Are Not Alone Program” bags and other projects that morning.

Both adults and children (with parents) will meet early Saturday morning at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 29725 Bradley Road, in Sun City to register and receive their free grab-andgo breakfast, a T-shirt and attend a free required safety briefing and orientation before doing their chosen tasks. Participating volunteers are asked to volunteer for only one project with some limits. Groups of residents are also welcome to join for the tasks.

Many city officials will be present at this special event to welcome the volunteers.

What are the tasks?

The Flower Pot Project creates spring color/flower bowls for seniors. The project is intended for families with young children 2 to 8. A parent/guardian will work alongside their child to create a special gift for a Menifee senior. Space is limited for this project. Volunteers will need their own transportation to the job sites for this project.

The Senior Home Revitalization project will have volunteers performing yard work for senior homeowners in Sun City. Volunteers are asked to wear closed toe shoes and clothes they don’t

the Lake Elsinore community,” Manos said last year. “Moleaer’s innovative technology is helping us take a significant step forward in our commitment to revitalize and preserve the natural beauty of Lake Elsinore for generations to come.”

When the city announced the project last year Moleaer, the company that developed the nanobubbler technology said the generators would essentially breathe new life into the stagnant water.

“The introduction of nanobubbles, which are 2,500 times smaller than a grain of salt, nonbuoyant and possess a charged surface, in an algae-filled body of water helps disturb compacted sediment layers and break down organic contaminants on an ongoing basis without the use of harsh chemicals, Moleaer explained in a news release.

According to Moleaer CEO

mind getting dirty. Sunscreen and extra water is recommended. Bring gardening gloves, otherwise they will be provided along with safety glasses as needed. All other gardening tools will be provided.

Home site project locations will be assigned during check-in.

Garden Revitalization is for volunteers of all ages. Tasks include building, painting and tilling soil to revitalize the garden. Wear closed toe shoes and clothes that may get dirty. Sunscreen and extra water is recommended.. If you have gardening gloves, please bring them. All other gardening tools will be provided.

Garden Revitalization at Lazy Creek is open to adult and children volunteers who will be building, painting and laying soil to revitalize the garden. Please wear closed toe shoes and clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. Sunscreen and extra water recommended. Please bring gardening gloves If you have them. All other gardening tools will be provided.

Welcome Bag Project is for volunteers of all ages, but children must be accompanied by an adult. Volunteers will be assembling bags for the “You Are Not Alone Program.”

Historical Monuments Project is for volunteers of all ages, but children must be accompanied by an adult. Volunteers will be cleaning, weeding and removing trash around the monuments. Monument location will be assigned at check-in. Please wear closed toe shoes and clothes you don’t mind getting dirty along with sunscreen and extra water. Bring gardening gloves, all other gardening tools will be provided.

Menifee History Museum

Nick Dyner, the technology is unlike any other surface water treatment previously used in Lake Elsinore because it addresses the root cause of the lake’s problems. “Nanobubbles are extremely efficient at transferring oxygen into the water, which decreases the amount of phosphorus released from bottom of the lake and reduces harmful algae blooms,” he said. The custom-built Titan Series NB6 nanobubble generator was installed on a floating barge in the lake and will treat 2,400 gallons of water per minute, without using any harsh chemicals, according to Moleaer.

The water treatment process physically destroys algae cells and results in the addition of dissolved oxygen to the water column, creating an environment less conducive to algae growths, Moleaer said.

“The innovative barge installation will enable the equipment to reach the greatest depths of

Cleanup at the Museum is for volunteers of all ages, and children must be accompanied by an adult. Volunteers will be cleaning, washing windows, weeding and removing trash around the museum on Garbani Road. Please wear closed toe shoes and clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty. If you have gardening gloves, please bring them. All other gardening tools will be provided.

Boys & Girls Club Cleanup will have volunteers cleaning the buildings, washing windows, weeding and removing trash around the buildings and washing the vans. Please wear closed toe shoes and clothes that you don’t mind getting

volunteers must meet at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints, 29725 Bradley Road, in Sun City, between 7-7:15 a.m. to check in. All volunteers are invited to the barbecue celebration after the work-day at the same location as check in.

Early registration at https:// www.habitativ.org/menifee-bettertogether.

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

and clothes that can get dirty. Bring sunscreen and extra water. If you have gardening gloves, please bring them. All other gardening tools and supplies will be provided.

the lake without the need for a complex piping system,” Moleaer explained. “The nanobubble installation is a critical component of the city’s comprehensive Lake Management Plan to renew and restore the ecological balance of Lake Elsinore.” Mano said since the nanobubbler was turned on the city is seeing progress with numerous residents and visitors taking to social media to post photos of the lake showing clear water, all the way to the bottom.

of being at capacity. “The lake is at 1,249.76 feet above sea level, it is considered full at 1,262 feet.”

Manos said the lake is currently at its highest point since 1993.

“IT seems to be having a great effect,” Manos said, adding that the lake is still about 12 feet shy

In addition to the use of the nanobubble technology, the Roadmap to a Renewed and Restored Lake Elsinore initiative also includes a peroxide-based algaecide and lanthanum-based water treatment all working together to improve the lake’s water quality.

Manos said that he believed with the combination of the nanobubbler, which was turned on in February, the new water, and the city’s use of an algaecide late last year, the health of the lake was improving.

“All this is coming together to work together to improve the water quality of the lake by leaps and bounds,”

Daisy Girl Scout mother Michelle Lorimar with Daisies Paige McIntyre, Charlotte Lorimar and Madison Ebner kneel before the flower pot creations made by the little scouts to be handed to older adults during the Menifee Better Together event in 2022.

Hemet police officers wear their support for autism acceptance

HEMET -- In support of Autism Acceptance Month, Hemet Police Officers and other uniformed personnel will voluntarily wear Autism patches during April. For 2024, the Hemet Police Department has Autism Acceptance Challenge coins and patches for a $10 donation.

All proceeds will be donated to the Autism Society Inland Empire (https://ieautism.org), an organization that connects people to the resources they need through education, advocacy, support,

information, referral, and community programming.

Patches and coins will be available at the Hemet Police Department Lobby, 450 E. Latham Avenue, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Currently, the department is accepting cash only for patches and coin donations.

To make a purchase, contact Officer Albert Martinez at amartinez@hemetca.gov or Records Specialist Sarah Howerton showerton@hemetca.gov.

Patches will be worn voluntarily by Hemet police officers and other uniformed personnel, and can be purchased for $10 at the Hemet Police Department Lobby, benefitting the Autism Society Inland Empire. Valley News/Courtesy photo

RUHS launches Overdose Awareness Walk and Resource Fair

RIVERSIDE – Riverside University Health System’s “One Life, One Heart” Poisoning and Over-

on three separate dates. The event is designed to heighten awareness of substance use dangers and pay tribute to those who have lost their lives to drug overdoses.

Murrieta to host Master Plan Workshop

Murrieta will host a Master Plan workshop where residents can provide input to city leaders expressing what their vision of the city’s future is.

The city’s second workshop on the Parks and Recreation Master Plan will be held Wednesday, April 17, from 6-8 p.m. at the Murrieta Senior Center, 5 Town Square, in Murrieta.

Murrieta is currently looking for input on the city’s Parks and Recreation Master Plan, which is currently being updated, the city said, adding that it is also moving forward with its first ever Trails Master Plan.

“These master plans will allow

for long-range planning that provides policy guidance for future land use, park and amenity development, infrastructure, services, programming, and events,” the city said. “As a community that values connection, the city is seeking input from its residents.”

According to the city, each master plan will have three in-person workshops where residents can learn more and contribute input on the vision, goals and direction for the plan and the city’s future, especially as it relates to multi-use trails, e-bikes and trail connectivity.

For more information, visit the city of Murrieta online at http:// www.murrietaca.gov and click on “government.”

Murrieta/Wildomar Chamber invites residents to connect over coffee

Murrieta is inviting residents to come out and share a cup of Dunkin’ coffee with the Murrieta/ Wildomar Chamber of Commerce to connect with local leadership.

RUHS extends an open invitation to the community to participate

Square Park, 1 Town Square, Saturday, April 27, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. A third event took place in Palm Desert Wednesday, March 27.

The events offer opportunities to engage, inform and support attendees, including a free 5K Fun Walk to promote health and solidarity among community members. A resource fair will provide attendees with valuable information and access to a variety of support and resources. The event will feature inspirational guest speakers who share their insights and personal stories, offering perspectives on recovery, prevention, and the im-

portance of community support in addressing the overdose crisis. Lunch will be provided.

“Addressing substance use and overdoses is not just an individual health issue; it’s a community health issue. We stand together to raise awareness, provide support, and remember those we’ve lost to this epidemic,” Chuck Washington, Riverside County’s Third District Supervisor, said.

In 2023, the United States experienced an unprecedented increase in overdose fatalities, with the national death toll exceeding 112,000 for the first time, largely due to fentanyl and other synthetic opioids, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

In Riverside County, fentanyl overdose fatalities reached 428 in 2023. A significant portion of those deaths affected the younger population, with 205 victims aged 25-44 and 38 fatalities among individuals aged 15-24.

The “One Life, One Heart” events will serve as a crucial platform for community organizations and county services to come together, offering a wealth of resources such as housing assistance, behavioral health resources, health care services and much more.

“Recognizing the signs of poisoning and overdose is crucial in our fight against this growing crisis,” Dr. Matthew Chang, director of behavioral health for RUHS, said. “At RUHS, we are deeply committed to providing comprehensive services and resources to address and prevent these tragic occurrences in Riverside County. Together, we can make a difference.”

Registration for the walk is available online at https://bit. ly/1LifeWalkRegister. For more information, email OneLife@ ruhealth.org Submitted by Riverside University Health System.

The next Coffee with the City is scheduled for Tuesday, April 23, from 8:30-9:30 a.m. at the Murrieta Innovation Center, 26442 Beckman Court, in Murrieta.

During the free event, held the fourth Tuesday of every month, those in attendance will be able to share their thoughts and concerns with city leaders. “Through these meaningful conversations, the community actively contributes to shaping Murrieta’s future and strengthening the sense of community,” the city said.

Kim Harris Special to Valley News

Valley News/Karina Young photo

Kim Harris Special to Valley News

A volunteer searches for trash during a cleanup day along the levee at Lake Elsinore. Valley News/Shane Gibson photos Torie Wheeler (right) and her granddaughter Kylie Alvarado, 13, volunteer at the Lake Elsinore levee cleanup day event.

Volunteers search for trash during a cleanup day along the levee at Lake Elsinore.

Sisters Zoey McFarland (left), 6, and Riley, pick up trash along the shore of the levee during a cleanup day event at Lake Elsinore.

A volunteer looks for trash during a cleanup day along the levee at Lake Elsinore. Volunteers put in time to cleanup trash along the levee at Lake Elsinore.

Mario Flotte removes trash along the shore of the levee at Lake Elsinore during a cleanup event.

ENTERTAINMENT

Artists share their talent at EXCEED Art Show

Diane A. Rhodes Special to Valley News

For the second year in a row, the successful Art in the Park project for adults with disabilities who are part of the nonprofit EXCEED programs culminated in an art show at the Hemet Public Library, March 28. For three hours, the artists shared their works that were gleaned from a full year of classes. EXCEED, which offers several programs to provide advocacy, educational, vocational, job placement services and life skills training, was established in 1979. The Art in the Park project began in 2021 through a successful City of Hemet Community Development Block Grant.

The purpose of the project is to provide a meaningful art experience for adults with disabilities and to foster inspiration, community integration and good health. Art also provides a viable way of expressing emotions and feelings, especially when someone can’t do so through traditional means.

Art facilitator Nancy Espensen enjoys helping participants unlock their creativity through the program that promotes the belief that everyone has the potential to use art materials and to be creative and expressive. She teaches about nine classes per month that encompass clients from the Community Integrated Services, Exploration & Enrichment Services and Adult Development Center programs.

“I feel I am the most fortunate person in the whole world to have this job,” Espensen said. After working with a local youth organization for eight years, she was happy to be given the opportunity to work with adults, which she had always wanted to do. During the pandemic, EXCEED clients were at home and were looking for something to do outdoors, which is when Art in the Park was born. Espensen was very pleased to be the artist they chose to facilitate the lessons.

She prepares materials for 30 participants at each session and said it sometimes takes more than one class to complete a particular project. Regarding how in depth she gets with art history, she said it varies with each artist they are learning about.

“If the artist has a great story, that will depend on how engaged they become. For instance, Yayoi Kusama is 95 and still creating amazing art,” Espensen said. The Japanese contemporary artist, sometimes called “The Princess

of Polka Dots,” inspired their “Flower Still Life” paintings. Clients worked with primary colors using tempera paint to put down a vase for the background table and background of their dot flowers. They then used a marker to add petals and different dimensions to their composition. Lastly, they added more polka dots to finish their Kusama masterpieces. “I show them a video or show examples of the artist’s work,” Espensen said. “With Pinterest and YouTube, there is a lot you can find online these days.”

Classes focus on different artists or techniques each session and Espensen takes the time to share the particular style of art and/or some background on the artists themselves before asking her class to create their own works of art to emulate the style. This year’s

show featured 32 different wellknown artists or art styles, offering a wide array of techniques, colors and mediums.

Friends Nicole Yoder and Elaine Morris were happy to see guests enjoying their compositions. Scott Ferrell got involved with the art program for the first time this past year and said, “it’s cool” and plans to continue.

Dean Shrader was one of the featured artists again this year and stood by his stencil of “Dubai at Night” that was displayed on an easel. Behind it was a wall containing the works created by other artists for the session on “Moments in Nature” where they used stencils on paper and dot markers to apply color.

Gerardo Avellaneda was happy to explain the detailed process he used to create his two Dale

Chihuly Inspired Hearts pieces. He said his favorite art classes are those that involve sculpting. Michael Arellanes made “Clay Textured Tiles” of Mickey Mouse

A huge variety of art styles are on display at the second annual EXCEED Art Show at the Hemet Public Library, March 28. Valley News/Diane A. Rhodes photos

Artist Scott Ferrell shares his Yayoi Kusama inspired flower still life.

Nicole Yoder’s “Lines & Landscapes” creation is one of many art pieces she is proud to display at the second annual EXCEED Art Show.

The Henri Rousseau inspired “Tigers in the Jungle” is the result of mixed media collages made by several artists.

This “Paper Relief” project, with input from 18 clients, had participants using scrap paper pieces and remnants from other projects.

and Olaf (from Frozen) as well as a clay textured turtle. Some students also created watercolor

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

April 11 – 4-5:30 p.m. National Poetry Month celebration for teenagers with Blackout Poetry using old book pages, markers and colored pencils lets teens create their own poetry art pieces at Ronald H. Roberts Temecula Public Library. Event is for students grades 7-12 and is limited to 25. Visit http:// TemeculaCA.gov/Library to follow @TemeculaLibrary on social media for updates.

April 13 – 7 a.m. The 2024 Spring Children’s Fishing Tournament will be held at the three lakes at the Golden Era Golf Course, 19871 San Jacinto Road, in San Jacinto. The tournament is from 8-11 a.m. Boys and girls from 6-15 years are invited along with parents. The tournament is limited to 200 children. Bring fishing gear; prizes awarded. Enjoy breakfast and hot hogs. Register online at http://alpost53.com

COMMUNITY EVENTS

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 children 12 and under. Benefits the San Jacinto Valley. Event takes place at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 26410 Columbia St., in Hemet. For more information, call 530-913-4351.

April 13 – 11 a.m. to 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.

April 17 – 5 p.m. Temecula Valley Museum invites art and culture unveiling of a temporary mural recognizing Arab American Heritage in Sam Hicks Monument Park, 41970 Moreno Road, Temecula, next to the museum. This free reception is open to the public. Guests in attendance will be able to meet the artists, learn more about the mural, and enjoy refreshments.

April 25 – 11 a.m. Attend the Monthly Market at the Outlets, 17600 Collier Ave, Suite A100, in Lake Elsinore.

April 27 – 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Temecula Community Services Expo returns at the Civic Center, 41000 Main Street, Temecula. Entertainment, prizes, giveaways, activities, and to meet instructors and staff. This event will include a free fun zone, crafts, face painting, and giveaways.

April 27 - 1 to 5 p.m. Hemet Police Department presents Autism Acceptance and Resource Fair. A free community event connecting Autistic children and adults to vital local resources. Sensory activities, crafts, presentations, prizes and more at Hemet Police Department, 200 N. Harvard Street in Hemet.

April 28 – 6-8 p.m. The Interfaith Council presents the free annual Night of Music, “Songs for Peace and Unity.” The event will feature uplifting music from area musicians, including jazz artist Sherry Williams. All are welcome at Rancho Community Church, 31300 Rancho Community Way, in Temecula.

May 18 – 10 a.m. to 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, 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 3:30-5 p.m. at Lake Elsinore/Wildomar Elks Lodge, 33700 Mission Trail, in Wildomar across from the Animal Friends of the Valleys. Classes have a DJ with learning levels beginning to intermediate. Have fun and exercise at the same time at $5 per lesson. Contact Joyce Hohenadl at 951-674-2159.

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

ONGOING – If you know a homebound older adult, resources in Menifee are available, including grab-and-go, cooked and frozen food for pickup. Courtesy pantry items and meals delivered with no contact. Three days of emergency food can be delivered immediately or restaurant meal delivery for those who don’t qualify for food assistance programs. Call the California Department on Aging at 800-510-2020 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, NOTICE

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 951-6395352 for information.

April 11 – Temecula Valley Women’s Republican Club reminds members to renew their memberships if they are seeking to enjoy the monthly informational meetings with elected representatives and candidates through the year. Renewals could be appreciated with a free lunch at the next regular Tuesday, April 16, meeting at Wilson Creek Winery with Chad Schnitger from Greystone Public Affairs and the Faith and Freedom Coalition of California and Joseph Komrosky of the Temecula Valley Unified School District Board. RSVP required.

April 12 – Temecula’s Summer/Fall 2024 Guide to Leisure Activities from Temecula Community Services Department is available with upcoming classes and camps, programs and fun activities through November 2024. Registration for classes opens Monday, April 29. Guides will be mailed to Temecula residents and are available online. For more information, visit http://TemeculaCA.gov/Classes, call the Class Hotline at 951-694-6480 or email Classes@TemeculaCA.go v. Follow @TemeculaParksAndRec on social media.

April 12 – Menifee is offering a public survey to residents to determine what and where a new community center should come into the city. Visit https://form. jotform.com/240815392519157

April 12 – Menifee offers Menifee is Hungry start up grants for owners, chefs and restaurateurs from $25,000 to $100,000. Contact EconDev@cityofmenifee.us or call 951-723- 3712.

April 16 – 8:30-10:30 a.m. Menifee Mayors Tech Idea Exchange is hosted at the Menifee City Hall, 29844 Haun Road, in Menifee.

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 20 – 10 a.m. Menifee’s Got Talent live auditions are scheduled for the upcoming Menifee’s Got Talent variety show at Liberty High School Monday, May 20. All types of talent considered from singers, comedians, musicians, jugglers dancers, etc. Online auditions are OK. For registration and future information, contact http://www.artscouncilmenifee. org

April 22 – 4-6 p.m. The Earth Day MSJC presentation will take place at Primal 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

April 25 – 6 to 7 p.m. Poetry Night presented by the WriteMinded Poets at the Ronald H. Roberts Temecula Public Library. Join us as we enjoy spoken work from our talented presenters. Registration is required. Register at the library reception desk or by calling 951-693-8900.

April 26 – 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 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 27 – 7 a.m to noon. Menifee Better Together seeks volunteers for many projects to help cleanup and repair senior homes, plant gardens and other projects to make Menifee Better. Adults and children with their parents are welcome to help with a barbecue at the end of day. To register, visit https://www.habitativ.org/ menifee-better-together. Volunteers will meet at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 29725 Bradley Road, in Sun City. Arrive at 7 a.m. to check in and attend the required orientation and safety briefing. A free grab-and-go breakfast and event T-shirt will be available while supplies last.

ONGOING – Temecula Valley Genealogical Society Family History Research Assistance Program. Interested in learning more about your family roots? Get free research assistance from TVGS member-genealogists through this volunteer program. Appointments are available in person or via Zoom. Contact Lynne at tvgs. research.assist@gmail.com for more information.

ONGOING – Temecula’s Path of Honor at the Temecula Duck Pond, 28250 Ynez Road. A program to give a place to remember and honor veterans from the 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 consolidated, 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 com-

munity 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.

ENTERTAINMENT

DigiFest Temecula returns to JDS Creative Academy, sparking creativity this spring

Karlee Skipper Special to Valley News

JDS Creative Academy will host the eighth annual DigiFest Temecula 2024 three-day signature event Friday through Sunday, April 19-21. This multimedia event celebrates the nonprofit’s mission to advance education, training, and opportunities in visual, performing and digital arts.

DigiFest is so much more than a film festival. Creators across the digital media spectrum are given the opportunity to showcase their work while attendees immerse themselves in engaging presentations and hands-on workshops, as well as connecting with likeminded artists and reveling in the excitement of earning prestigious awards.

DigiFest Temecula serves as a catalyst for bringing the community and region together for a weekend of creativity, networking, inspiration and entertainment. With screenings, engaging presentations and workshops held by industry professionals, entertainment, food, spirits and exhibits, there is something for everyone.

Throughout the weekend, speakers and performers will inspire audiences with their captivating narratives as they share their expertise and talent.

The doors open Friday, April 19, at 6 p.m. as guests are invited to walk the Blue Carpet, take pictures and enjoy appetizers and beverages while they explore the creative and digital exhibits. Executive Producer Evan J. Cholfin, Director/Filmmaker Daniel Robert Cohn and Digital Storyteller Richard Tiland will be sharing the road map of their work, followed by a screening of their short film, The Rise of SuperMouth. The afterparty continues with entertainment provided by singer-songwriter,

Travis Guilliams. Saturday, April 20, will be a full day from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. with more speakers and presenters. First up is Summer Helene executive producer digital marketer at Paramount Pictures/God Bradit Productions, with MMA fighter and host Jarred “Bear” Fiorda, followed by animator Michael Ruocco, and keynote speaker for the day Emmy Award-winning actress, Kelly Thiebaud. During lunchtime, El Chiro will be on site to serve street tacos, nachos and snow cones with vegan options available. The studio reopens at 6 p.m. for the DigiFest screenings, where the film, video and animation DigiFest contenders take to the big screen. One Sunday, April 21, the doors open at 11 a.m. with a day of learn-

ing and creative growth through interactive workshops led by social media YouTube expert Stephanie Garcia, and A.I. experts Robert Welish and Marni Molina. The studio remains open till 1 p.m. for attendees to view exhibits and get their People’s Choice Award ballots submitted. The studio will prepare for the awards celebration, rolling out the Blue Carpet again at 4 p.m. to welcome everyone to the DigiFest Awards Celebration.

DigiFest 2024 received over 90 submissions across various mediums from students, emerging talent and professionals. Get ready for an evening of celebration and honoring award winners. The keynote speaker for the evening is Emmy award-winning Director Matt Sellers.

Attendees will also be treated to

a performance by two-time Digi Winner singer-songwriter, Joanna Pearl.

Afterward, the JDS Creative Academy board will bestow the Digis, the Honorable Mentions and the People’s Choice Awards. Come enjoy a Digi-Rita, good food, entertainment and so much more at DigiFest 2024 Awards Celebration.

DigiFest Temecula 2024 is sponsored by several community members, with the title sponsors leading the forefront: the city of Temecula, Abbott Laboratories, the county of Riverside and Pechanga Resort & Casino.

DigiFest tickets are on sale now. There are plenty of options to choose from, including our VIP Tickets and All Access Passes. Go VIP! It encompasses everything

in All Access, plus exclusive oneon-one time with the presenters, a VIP SWAG Bag to take home, a complimentary lunch on Saturday and a beverage of their choice at each event. There are also options for a general one-day pass and tickets to individual events, including workshops, screenings and awards. DigiFest also has a virtual online experience, offers student discounts with student ID required and other discount opportunities are happening all the time. Follow on social media to stay up-to-date and visit http:// digifesttemecula.org for tickets, additional information and more.

“Our theme is ‘So Much More than a Film Festival’ because we pack so much value into these three days. It’s something for everyone. We cover so many mediums, and provide opportunity after opportunity,” Diane Strand, founder of DigiFest Temecula, said.

“DigiFest is where you get to meet directly with industry professionals and network with peers who share your interests and goals,” Lynn Cohen, chair of DigiFest Temecula, said.

JDS Creative Academy is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization based in Temecula and hosts DigiFest Temecula. The organization is dedicated to inspiring, educating and enhancing achievement in video production and workforce development. With a focus on visual, performing and digital arts, JDS Creative Academy offers programs for mainstream and diverse populations to foster an inclusive environment. For more information, visit http://www.jdscreativeacademy. org or call JDS Studio at 951296-6715.

Submitted by JDS Creative Academy.

Award-winning actress and advocate Eileen Grubba takes the stage at last year’s DigiFest Temecula. Valley News/JDS Creative Academy photo

Temecula Rod Run invites car enthusiasts to Southern California’s premier car show

TEMECULA – Time to get under the hood and tune up that engine. Temecula welcomes all car enthusiasts, novice to expert, to attend the annual Temecula Rod Run in historic Old Town Temecula Friday, May 3, and Saturday, May 4. This event draws tens of thousands of visitors and classic hot rods for miles.

The festivities kick off with the Friday Night Cruise With Stew, May 3, from 5-8 p.m., up and down Old Town Front Street. The excitement continues the next day, May 4, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. with the Show & Shine.

Come see over 500 pristine classics and under-construction projects, including Model As, T-Buckets, T-Birds and Roadsters displayed from arch to arch. Remember to visit the vendors on Main Street to enjoy hot eats and cool treats and do not forget to purchase the official Temecula Rod Run merchandise. The city thanked the event sponsors: Rightway Site Services, Rancho Water, Meza Automotive Paint, Us Versus Them, Frontwave Credit

Union, Big B’s Plumbing, The Nifty Gift, Coin-Op Temecula and Raising Canes for assisting the city of Temecula in making this free, annual, signature event one of the longest-running car shows in the West.

“As an avid classic car collector, the Temecula Rod Run is always one of my personal favorite annual events,” Temecula Mayor James “Stew” Stewart said. “The community is going to be so excited to see these amazing and unique vehicles drive up and down the Old Town Temecula strip! So, come on out and join me as I lead the ‘Friday Night Cruise with Stew’ and be sure to come back the next day for Saturday’s ‘Show & Shine.’”

For more information on the upcoming Temecula Rod Run, visit http://TemeculaCA.gov/RodRun

For additional information about all future events, activities, and programs from Temecula’s Community Services Department, visit http://TemeculaCA.gov/TCSD and follow @TemeculaParksandRec on social media for updates. Submitted by city of Temecula.

Temecula Community Services Expo returns April 27

TEMECULA ─ The Temecula Community Services Expo returns for another year of fun Saturday, April 27, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Civic Center, 41000 Main Street, for entertainment, prizes, giveaways, activities and to meet instructors and staff. This event will include a free fun zone, live entertainment, crafts, face painting, giveaways and more.

The Community Services Expo provides an opportunity to learn about all the exciting summer camps, classes and events offered by Temecula’s Community Services Department. Attendees can meet city class instructors face-toface before registration officially opens Monday, April 27, at 8 a.m. for the Summer/Fall 2024 Season.

Stay tuned for more information, events and updates from Temecula’s Community Services Department by following @ TemeculaParksAndRec on social media and by visiting http://TemeculaCA.gov/TCSD

Submitted by city of Temecula.

“The Temecula Community Services Department is the heart of our community – by hosting all our free signature events, excellent classes, valuable services and much more,” Temecula Mayor James “Stew” Stewart said. “The expo is a one-stop-shop for all things in community services. We invite local and neighboring residents of all ages to experience our annual expo to meet dedicated staff and instructors, to learn about the many programs offered at each city facility and to have some fun.”

Crossword Puzzle

Theme: National Parks

Temecula Community Services Expo is a chance to learn about all the summer camps, classes and events offered by the community services department. Valley News/Courtesy photo

Temecula displays mural in honor of Arab American Heritage Month

TEMECULA – The city of Temecula and Temecula Valley Museum invite art and culture enthusiasts to view the latest temporary mural, Arab American Heritage, located in the Sam Hicks Monument Park, adjacent to the museum. This mural celebrates National Arab American Heritage Month, focusing on the theme “Arab Cityscape” and is currently on display until the end of April 2024, at Sam Hicks Monument Park, 41970 Moreno Road, in Temecula. A mural unveiling reception will be hosted Wednesday, April 17, at 5 p.m. by the Temecula Valley Museum. The free reception is open to the public. Guests in attendance can meet the artists, learn more about the mural and enjoy refreshments. Temecula’s Mural Project supports emerging artists by providing a space to showcase their craft. Each month, artists are invited to paint a mural on varying topics, facilitated by Tony Moramarco,

TEMECULA – Summer fun and Fall festivities await within the pages of Temecula’s Summer/Fall 2024 Guide to Leisure Activities. The Temecula Community Services Department compiled another brochure full of events, classes and camps, programs and activities offered through November 2024.

Registration for classes and activities opens Monday, April 29, at 8 a.m. Guides will be mailed to Temecula residents and are avail

creative director of Bigfoot Art Classes, cultural arts facilitator to Temecula and founder of CartoonA-Paloozah!

The mural for April was painted by Hayden “Chachi” Stacey, @ fischer_art_co, and art students from Bigfoot’s Elite Advanced Art Program, including Sullivan DeVries, Cambria DeVries, Joseph Lockhart, Nina Lin and Madeline Secules.

The Temecula Valley Museum seeks to promote art and culture through public art and programs like this mural. For more information, visit http://TemeculaValleyMuseum.org/MuralProject.

The Temecula Valley Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, visit http://TemeculaValleyMuseum.org or call 951-694-6450. Follow Instagram and Facebook @TemeculaValleyMuseum, for updates on exhibits, events and programs.

Submitted by city of Temecula.

a fun zone and find out about all the offerings from Temecula’s Community Services Department before registration opens.

Highlighted in this season’s catalog are the Summer Fun Camps filled with enriching activities for children to enjoy. There are also several classes lined up for all ages and abilities

Classic and project cars will be on display at the Temecula Rod Run, Friday, May 3-4. Valley News/Shane Gibson photo

EXCEED from page B-1

turtle paintings that were inspired by a visit to the Temecula Duck Pond. Being blind, Arellanes didn’t think he would like art since it was pretty much new to him but after attending an Art in the Park session, he was hooked. “I hope it stays around,” he said.

Kelli Watson was most proud of “The Whimsy Collage” she created. Clients were given access to collage supplies, which are scraps from other projects and background papers, and were tasked to create whatever they wanted. “I really liked doing this,” she said. “I like the art classes; I like keeping my mind going and doing new things.” Watson also said she appreciates all the new ideas that Espensen comes up with on a regular basis.

Title sponsors for the Art Show, which took several months to organize with a lot of help, were the City of Hemet and the Soboba Foundation. Lowe’s Home Improvement and photographer Gina Diaz were silver sponsors for the event. Guests enjoyed refreshments, charcuterie board style, while they socialized.

Sandra Aldridge, who oversees Marketing & Resource Development for EXCEED, said one of her favorite art projects was “Hot Dogs & Cool Cats.” Clients reviewed warm and cool colors and found it interesting that colors have a temperature. Based on their own favorite color, they could be a hot or cool character. Using watersoluble oil pastels, they colored in the dogs and cats they had drawn with a black marker. They then “painted with water” to create a watercolor effect.

Kathy Bloom-Rudibaugh has been a member of EXCEED’s Board of Directors for more than 10 years. “It’s such a lovely organization that does a lot of good work in an area that is often neglected.” She said the art program is phenomenal and wouldn’t exist if clients weren’t excited to participate. One of her favorite displays at the show was the salute to Joan Miró, where clients created cat paintings in the style of Miro who had a unique style. His works featured brilliant colors, simplified forms, symbols and dream-like images that remind people of children’s art. Bloom-Rudibaugh had seen a Joan Miró exhibit on a visit to the Guggenheim Museum.

“Nancy does such a good job, providing a personal investment and appreciation of the artists,” Bloom-Rudibaugh, of Hemet, said. She has been all over Europe and visited many museums to view exhibits and was delighted with the way this art show was set up. “All the artwork they did is amazing, and I love seeing how proud they are of what they’ve accomplished, and rightfully so,” Bloom-Rudibaugh said.

Other well-known artists that were discussed and whose styles were brought to life throughout the twice-weekly sessions were Paul Klee, Georgia O’Keefe, Henri Rousseau, David Smith and Natasha Wescoat. In addition, clients were introduced to pop-art, batik and abstract methods as well as a wide variety of mediums from chalk pastels to alcohol ink pens.

Hemet City Manager Mark Prestwich said he was looking forward to this year’s show after seeing some of the pieces from last year’s show on display at City

Hall. “EXCEED does such a good service to the community; they need to be recognized,” he said. “I’m very impressed with how significant this display is and how the artists were challenged with different themes and styles.”

San Jacinto High School Assis-

tant

For those interested in supporting the Art in the Park program,

Temecula

Elaine Morris is the featured artist for the “Whimsical Trees” display, where clients explored how to use lines to create abstract and whimsical trees. At right are some of the “Hot Dogs & Cool Cats” paintings.

Artists are congratulated for their creativity at the EXCEED Art Show, March 28. From left, Hemet Mayor Joe Males, artists Gerardo Avellaneda, Christina Powell and Brian Calderon, Art Facilitator Nancy Espensen and featured artist Dean Shrader.

“The Whimsy Collage” project was a favorite for Kelli Watson, shown with one of her art pieces.

Artist Gerardo Avellaneda, left, shares Dale Chihuly inspired “Hearts” with Hemet City Manager Mark Prestwich and City Council Member Linda Krupa.

Michael Arellanes stands next to his clay textured turtle at the second annual EXCEED Art Show at the Hemet Public Library, March 28.

Principal Bill Powell said his daughter is a client of EXCEED and loves art. “I love this event as I have spent my career

Clients used melted crayons on muslin fabric for their creative “Crayon Batik” creations. “Follow Your Heart” is the title of this project that had artists making compilation pieces expressing their love and appreciation for the spirit of creativity.

Valley News/Diane A. Rhodes photos

Synthetic turf fields, forever chemicals and the safer alternative: Organic grass

Beyond Pesticides,

CALIFORNIA – A preliminary experiment conducted by Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility reveals concerning levels of toxic per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances on the skin of soccer players and coaches after playing on artificial turf fields. The Washington Post reported Tuesday, March 12, on the PEER test results, which found PFAS levels increased on the skin in three out of four participants following soccer matches on artificial turf. In contrast, no similar increase was observed after games on natural grass fields. The presence of PFAS is alarming due to their association with several serious health issues, including cancer, birth defects and developmental and immune deficiencies, among others.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency said that PFAS exposure risks are particularly concerning for young children, who are more susceptible due to their developing bodies and at risk for higher levels of exposure than adults. Known as “forever chemicals” for their persistence in the environment, PFAS continue to accumulate in the human body, posing long-term health risks.

Kyla Bennett, PhD, science policy director at PEER and a former scientist and lawyer with EPA, emphasized the need for further research.

“Although this study is preliminary, it highlights the potential risk of dermal absorption of PFAS from artificial turf,” Bennett said. She also pointed out the significant gap in the understanding of PFAS exposure through skin contact, a potentially major pathway of exposure.

Larger scale scientific studies are currently underway; as The Washington Post noted, “Wayne State University researchers are preparing to conduct a study on whether the chemicals found in turf can affect the endocrine system.”

“If the intent was to spread PFAS contamination across the globe, there would be few more effective methods than lacing pesticides with PFAS,” Bennett said.

Her remarks underscore the significant environmental impacts as these chemicals can leach into surrounding surface and groundwater, posing a threat to drinking water sources. In addition, broader systemic impacts are emerging in addition to the direct contamination of water. As Beyond Pesticides said, PFAS persistence is due to a fluorine-carbon atom bond being among the strongest ever created. PFAS contamination of drinking water, surface and groundwater, waterways, soils and the food supply, among other resources, is a ubiquitous and concerning contaminant across the globe.

With health risks including developmental and endocrine system disruption, reproductive harm, cancer and damage to the liver, kidneys and respiratory system, PFAS presents a chronic danger that demands action.

According to Dianne Woelke, a retired nurse and member of Safe Healthy Play Fields, “PFAS chemicals are so toxic that they are measured in parts per trillion.”

“For every 80,000 square feet of plastic turf, there is between one and 38 pounds of various PFAS chemicals,” Woelke said.

She said on the toxicity of the

tire crumbs in between the synthetic blades of turf – found to contain over 350 chemicals. “Parents need to be made aware… just because a consumer product has been made for sale does not mean it is safe,” Woelke said. States and local communities are taking action. The United States has an estimated 12,000 to 13,000 synthetic turf sports fields, with over a thousand new installations each year. Activists have sparked increased efforts to limit or remove artificial turf from various settings, including schools, parks and professional sports arenas, spurring states and local governments to take action.

New York has banned the sale of artificial turf with PFAS, starting at the end of 2026, and recognizes that recycling artificial turf can be a greenwashing fallacy. For more information, visit https://www. nrdc.org/sites/default/files/chemical-recycling-greenwashing-incineration-ib.pdf. Bills prohibiting the purchase of new artificial turf fields in select locations, such as schools, have also been introduced in Massachusetts and Vermont. In addition, California passed a 2023 bill banning the sale of PFAScontaining artificial turf, but it was not signed into law last year by Gov. Gavin Newsom, who sought stronger enforcement and signaled that the issue could return in this legislative year. Newsom did allow cities and counties to again ban artificial turf when he signed a new law reversing a previous law preventing, or preempting, local governments from banning artificial turf. As Times of San Diego reported in October 2023, some

California cities have already begun moving to prohibit synthetic lawns, including Millbrae in San Mateo County and San Marino in Los Angeles County.

“Emerging research is making it clear that artificial turf poses an environmental threat due to its lack of recyclability and presence of toxins such as lead and PFAS,” state Sen. Ben Allen, a Redondo Beach Democrat who wrote the state bill, said. With the new law, “Local governments will again be able to regulate artificial turf in a way to both protect our environment in the face of drought and climate change but also by preventing further contribution to our recycling challenges and toxic runoff,” Allen said.

Organically managed natural grass is an overlooked solution.

Beyond Pesticides and local advocates are fighting with a campaign to bring organically maintained natural grass into the ongoing discussions about artificial turf use. Cortney Jansen, a concerned parent from Sunnyvale, expressed her views to the Fremont Union High School District regarding this matter. Despite concerns, the district has agreed to replace six fields with new synthetic turf.

A notable conflict of interest, highlighted by the situation in Sunnyvale – the landscape consultant and construction firm engaged to provide impartial advice on turf replacement was the same entity granted a $14.5 million contract to carry out the work. This consultant was initially tasked with evaluating various alternatives for the replacement of 12 artificial turf fields due for removal before reaching their expected lifespan of eight to 10 years.

Testing for PFAS in artificial turf is a challenge.

Testing for PFAS in water is well defined. For an in-depth discussion that explains the science for a non-science audience, see Toxics Use Reduction Institute at University of Massachusetts Lowell fact sheet, “Per- and Poly-fluoroalkyl Substances in Artificial Turf Carpet.” As TURI showed, testing for PFAS presents significant challenges due to the vast number of compounds within this class and their ability to cause adverse effects at very low concentrations. While testing methods for drinking water and wastewater have been developed, there is a lack of standardized guidelines for assessing PFAS in solid materials, such as artificial turf components. One important way to overcome these challenges includes developing techniques for assessing the total concentration of fluorinecontaining organic compounds, which do not specifically target

PFAS but indicate their presence.

The importance of fluorine atoms as a proxy to measure the presence of PFAS is recognized by 20 states and is the subject of Maryland’s proposed HB1190 bill that would ban pesticides that contain PFAS.

Does the synthetic turf industry know this and harken back to the tobacco industry’s playbook? In an email to the Washington Post, Melanie Taylor, the president and CEO of the Synthetic Turf Council, a trade association for the industry, pointed to the tests showing the presence of PFAS in soil.

“STC has worked with its members to ensure their products contain no intentionally added PFAS constituents,” Taylor said.

Advocates said that the real explanation for PFAS contaminated soil could be from pesticides containing PFAS commonly used on conventional natural grass turf, the same PFAS containing pesticides that are the subject of Maryland’s proposed ban.

Given the extreme toxicity of PFAS, its alarming ubiquity, its persistence and the cost of remediating contaminated drinking water, there is an urgent need to do all we can to stop adding it to the environment. As the federal government has been slow to regulate the industry, local residents and communities have taken up the call to eliminate the use of PFAS. One impactful area that can be addressed at this level is land management.

A common and dangerous misconception is that the options for community athletic fields are limited to synthetic turf or synthetically managed natural turf. It is a false dichotomy. There is a third option that avoids both sources of PFAS: organically managed natural turf. Organic management practices build soil health, cycle nutrients naturally, enhance turf resiliency, reduce water use and do not use petrochemical pesticides or fertilizers. The organic alternative is central to a community’s discussion about its residents’ commitment to the elimination of practices and products that are petrochemical-based and the ability of organically managed soils to draw down, or sequester, atmospheric carbon as a reasonable price point – even factoring in water and labor costs.

To take action, sign up to be a Parks Advocate to encourage a community to transition to organic land management.

For more information on the Parks for a Sustainable Future program, email sustainableparks@ beyondpesticides.org

Submitted by Beyond Pesticides. All unattributed positions and opinions in this piece are those of Beyond Pesticides. Originally published March 27, 2024.

TEMECULA – Rancho California Water District announced that it has been awarded $9.1 million in funding from the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation as part of the “Investing

a nonprofit organization which works with allies in protecting public health and the environment to lead the transition to a world free of toxic pesticides, assesses that organically maintained, natural grass is a safe alternative to synthetic turf fields. Valley News/Pexels.com photo

HOME & GARDEN / REAL ESTATE

TNEF 16th annual ‘Spring into Swing’ Garden Party on the Santa Rosa Plateau coming in May

Tony Ault Staff Writer

A “Spring into Swing” Garden Party will be presented with a guided tour, garden topic discussions and other entertainment on the Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve in Murrieta, presented by The Nature Education Foundation at the Santa Rosa Plateau Saturday, May 18.

The 16th annual TNEF event this year is sponsored by the William & Stephanie Foundation, It includes a tour of a 10acre garden located in rolling hills on the Santa Rosa Plateau, Garden topic discussions led by University of California Master Gardeners, garden vendors, a wine bar provided by Plateau

Joe Naiman Writer

The Eastern Municipal Water District approved a construction contract to rehabilitate Well 33.

The EMWD board voted 3-0 April 3, with Phil Paule and Randy Record absent, to award a $355,620 contract to General Pump Company, Inc. The board action approved total appropriations of $409,000 which will also cover $16,500 for EMWD staff time and a $37,280 contingency. Well 33 is at Mountain Avenue West and 7th Street within the San Jacinto city limits. EMWD staff identified Well 33 as requiring rehabilitation during Fiscal Year 2023-24 due to the number of years since the well’s previous inspection and a loss of production capacity.

Jane Kepley Special to Village News

Spring is an excellent season for spending more time outdoors. And if your home has a sizable outdoor space, that’s even better.

A patio or yard presents so much opportunity: You can play with your kids or pets, invite the neighbors over for a cookout, or simply relax and enjoy the weather as it warms.

Before you do all of that, though, you should think about updating your outdoor space. Need help getting ready for spring? Here are some ideas: Install string lights. Give your deck or patio some ambience while also adding functionality. You can hang out and chat with neighbors long after the sun goes down, and string lights look great during the daytime, too.

Vineyards, a Spring into Spring jazz performance in the garden by Second Hand and a lunch option under ancient oak trees. Tickets are available at http:// the-nef.org.

Tickets costs for the Garden Tour from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. are $25 for TNEF members and $35 for non-members. To hear the jazz event only from 2:30 - 4:30 p.m. are $30 for members and $40 for non-members. The special VIP jazz-only event with reserve seating and complimentary wine event from 2:304:30 p.m. is $65 to $75. The Combo VIP tickets for all events from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. is $95 for members and $105 for nonmembers. Lunch is available on site by specialty and gourmet food trucks. Wine is sold separately on site. Seating for the different events may be somewhat limited; make your reservations soon at http:// the-nef.org.

General Pump Company, whose headquarters office is in San Dimas, is one of Eastern’s pre-approved well maintenance contractors. In November 2023 General Pump Company was issued a $31,724 purchase order to perform efficiency testing, obtain water samples, pull the well pump, and prepare a video log of the well casing to determine the extent of the rehabilitation work needed.

CALIFORNIA – Planning to buy a home? Let’s ensure you’re financially prepared with this Financial Checklist for Home Buyers.

Financial checklist for home buyers

Do a financial checkup. Know your credit score, debt-to-income ratio, and savings. This will give you a clear picture of your financial readiness and help you set a realistic budget for your home purchase. It’s best to reach out to a mortgage officer or financial adviser.

Get pre-approved. Submit financial documents to a lender, who will assess your creditworthiness and determine how much they are willing to lend you for a home purchase. Having a pre-approval letter gives you a plus points to sellers, letting them know that you are a serious and qualified buyer. Save for a downpayment. You don’t need 20% down to buy a home and there are options available for home buyers with smaller down payments. Explore different loan programs and down payment assistance options to find the best fit for your financial situation.

Based on the results of the well and equipment inspection, General Pump Company determined that the existing pump has reached the end of its life and requires replacement. The analysis of the water samples, the results of the video log, and the loss of production establish that Well 33 requires mechanical cleaning and disinfection to regain some of the lost capacity.

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

General Pump Company submitted a quote of $323,896 to redevelop and re-equip the well. The $31,724 for the preliminary work is included in the $355,620 contract amount for the work and the replacement equipment. Joe Naiman can be reached at jnaiman@reedermedia.com.

Review loan options. Familiarize yourself with available assistance programs for homebuyers in the county or state, such as first-time home buyer programs, and government-backed loan programs. Follow us on our social media channels to stay in the loop about these incentives.

Factor in closing costs. The cost includes fees for services such as attorney’s fees, appraisals, title insurance, escrow, etc. This is around 2-5% of the home’s purchase price.

Other homeownership costs. Aside from the mortgage payments, budget for ongoing home expenses like property taxes, homeowners insurance, and potential maintenance expenses. Understand the mortgage terms. Thoroughly review the terms of the loan, including any potential fees or penalties. Clarify and ask questions about something you don’t understand. Make sure you are 100% comfortable with the terms and fully understand your financial obligations as a homeowner.

Keep yourself in check. It might be tempting to plan on upgrades on the home right away or go on a home shopping spree before and even after closing. Go ahead if you have disposable income to do so, but if you’re someone on a tight budget, it might be best to avoid making major purchases or opening a new credit card account to maintain your financial stability. Buying a home is an exciting milestone and entails big decisions that will change your life forever. Have the pros by your side – work with a trusted real estate agent so you can navigate the home buying process with confidence and peace of mind.

This article fi rst appeared on Broadpoint Properties’ website, https://servingsandiegocounty. com. Submitted

Add elements of an outdoor kitchen . Full-on outdoor kitchens are trendy, but they can be expensive to install. For a more affordable option, consider adding a few small elements, like a highend grill or a small pizza oven. These are great to have if you like to entertain.

Invest in some yard games Having a bocce or ladder ball set can keep kids and adults busy in the yard. You could also build a small horseshoe throwing pit or a mini putting green for more fun options. Upgrade your seating. Outdoor furniture that’s been in the elements for a while is likely in rough shape. You could get new furniture – maybe a multifunctional sectional or an outdoor dining set.

If you’d like to find a new home with more outdoor space, reach out to Jane Kepley with CR Properties at 760-622-0204 or kepleyrealestate@att.net

Refinish your deck. If you’ve had your wooden deck for a while, it may look pretty worn down, especially if you live somewhere with harsh weather. Refinishing it and adding a new coat of stain is a good way to give it a facelift.

BUSINESS

Kim Harris Special to Valley News

Citing inflation, theft and other “financial difficulties,” 99 Cents Only Stores announced the closure of its stores nationwide last week.

A liquidation sale of all the 99 Cents Only stores began April 5, with thousands of employees expected to lose their jobs.

The company said it will wind down business operations at all 371 stores across Texas, Arizona, Nevada, and California, including its Temecula, Murrieta, Menifee, Lake Elsinore and Hemet.

“This was an extremely difficult

decision and is not the outcome we expected or hoped to achieve,”

Mike Simoncic, Interim Chief Executive Officer of 99 Cents Only Stores, said Friday, April 5. Simoncic said that the last several years had presented “significant and lasting challenges” in the retail environment. He said the “unprecedented impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, shifting consumer demand, rising levels of shrink, persistent inflationary pressures, and other macroeconomic headwinds, all of which have greatly hindered the company’s ability to operate.”

According to Simoncic, the

company, along with its financial and legal advisors engaged in “extensive analysis” to find a solution to the issues faced by the company but ultimately determined closing the stores was the only real solution.

"We deeply appreciate the dedicated employees, customers, partners, and communities who have collectively supported 99 Cents Only Stores for decades,” he said.

99 Cents Only Stores first opened in 1982.

Kim Harris can be reached at kharris@reedermedia.com.

Temecula unveils exciting Innovation Month for April 2024

TEMECULA – To highlight and celebrate the efforts of local innovators and entrepreneurs, the city of Temecula, along with Riverside County and cities throughout the region, recognizes April as Innovation Month. Innovation Month is an annual celebration dedicated to showcasing and fostering innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship in the region. Discover the lineup of events and activities happening at the Temecula Valley Entrepreneur’s Exchange throughout April.

Southwest Region Quick Pitch Competition will take place Tuesday, April 16, at 11 a.m. Startups can seize the opportunity to

Answers for puzzle on page B-4

showcase their business idea in a five-minute business pitch to a panel of judges. The first-place winner will be awarded a $1,000 cash prize and move on to the Regional Fast Pitch Competition scheduled for Tuesday, April 30, in Riverside. The Quick Pitch will be held at the Lake Elsinore Storm Stadium – Diamond Tap Room, 500 Diamond Drive, in Lake Elsinore. Spectators are welcome. At Selling Skills and Strategies – Best Practices for Overcoming Objections, Wednesday, April 17, at 9 a.m., acquire insights into proven sales techniques and strategies for effectively addressing sales objections. Register at

https://bit.ly/3wMkFko

Attend How to Start a Small Business Thursday, April 18, at 9 a.m. For those eager to embark on the journey of entrepreneurship but uncertain where to begin? This workshop is designed to equip you with the essential knowledge and confidence to launch your small business venture successfully. Join us to kick-start your entrepreneurial aspirations. Register at http://bit.

ly/3Tp09O8

The Youth Innovators Program is a high school student-run committee in Temecula

Kim Harris Special to Valley News

The city of Temecula announced it has once again been recognized by The Government Finance Officers Association for its annual Budget reports. The newest recognitions come on the heels of the city receiving its 32nd award for “Certificate in Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting” in September of last year for its Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for the Fiscal Year ended June 30, 2022.

The GFOA presented the city with the “Distinguished Budget Presentation Award” for its Fiscal Year 23-24 Annual Operating Budget. According to GFOA, the award represents a significant achievement by the city of and reflects the commitment of both city council and staff to meet “the highest principles of governmental budgeting.”

In order to receive the award,

Temecula satisfied nationally recognized guidelines for effective budget presentation, GFOA said.

“These guidelines are designed to assess how well an entity’s budget serves as a policy document, a financial plan, an operations guide, and a communication tool,” the city explained in a news release. “Budget documents must be rated ‘proficient’ in all four categories, and in the fourteen mandatory criteria within those categories, to receive the award.”

Temecula also received a “Special Recognition - Budget Process,” which the city earned by receiving a 4 of 4, or the highest score by all three budget reviewers. That score culminated in the highest possible rating for the category entitled, “Overall as a Policy Document.”

“We are informed that only 19 municipalities/counties/special districts received this special recognition, and that Temecula is the only city in California – and in fact

the only city west of Texas - to receive this recognition,” Temecula Mayor James ‘Stew’ Stewart said.

According to the city, the GFOA budget award and its special recognition were presented on the heels of the city receiving its 32nd award for “Certificate in Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting,” which was announced in September of 2023 for its Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for the Fiscal Year ended June 30, 2022.

“This award requires demonstrating a constructive ‘spirit of full disclosure’ to clearly communicate the city’s financial story and motivate potential users and user groups to read the report,” the city said. Stewart said that the multiple budget and financial awards were a “testament to the excellent financial stewardship and the integrity of financial and budget information provided by our city manager and finance director, and their respective teams.”

19thannual Tour de Murrieta takes to the streets

Kim

Cyclists compete in the annual Tour de Murrieta in downtown Murrieta, April 6. Valley News/Shane Gibson photos

Cyclists race around the corner of Adams Avenue and B Street during the annual Tour de Murrieta Grand Prix.

Spectators watch as cyclists race around the streets of downtown Murrieta during the annual Tour de Murrieta.

Cyclists compete in the annual Tour de Murrieta in downtown Murrieta, April 6. Another group of cyclists speed around the corner of Adams Avenue and B Street during the annual Tour de Murrieta Grand Prix.

Storm opens 2024 season with a series win against Rancho Cucamonga

The first

Miguel Mendez faced in his 2024 season made it memorable. Kendell George struck a hard ground ball directly into the Lake Elsinore Storm starting pitcher’s ankle. After a brief discussion with the training staff, Mendez resumed his night to less than optimal results. Mendez would allow two walks but just one run. However, for how tight the spot appeared to be, one run was an incredible testament to his mental fortitude. Mendez would also strike out two of three batters and refuse to allow a run in the second inning, ending his night with one earned run, four walks, three strikeouts, and the only hit being one that likely left a colorful bruise on his ankle. This navigation of misfortune allowed the Storm a

chance to answer and answer they did. They would score six runs in the first three innings, collecting five hits and two walks in that span. The Storm lineup was also helped immensely by the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes, they were the beneficiaries of two errors and nine walks. The Quakes would only get as close as three runs behind as the Lake Elsinore Storm put up 11 runs on 11 hits to leave Storm fans happy for more than just the

post-game fireworks. Five Lake Elsinore Storm pitchers entered the game that night, three of the five would not allow a single run and two of the five would not allow a hit. Thomas Balboni Jr. ended the night by striking out three batters in his one inning of work while Will Varmette struck out four in two innings of work. Romeo Sanabria and Rosman Verdugo would each earn three hits and score twice. Catcher Oswaldo Linares was the victim of three errors, and one passed ball but brought the first run home when he singled in the second inning and Nick Vogt scored. The Lake Elsinore Storm would go on to win Saturday 7-5 as they opened the 2024 season with two wins over the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes before dropping Sunday’s series finale 14-7. The Quakes used 14 walks and 4 HR’s (2 by Zhir Hope) to defeat the Storm in that final game at The Diamond.

Joe Vetrano slides past Storm catcher Colton Vincent to score a run for the Quakes in Sunday’s 14-7 loss at The Diamond. Valley News/David Canales photo

Storm second baseman Wyatt Hoffman applies the tag as Quakes runner Joe Vetrano is caught stealing. Valley News/David Canales photo

Rancho Cucamonga’s Zhir Hope watches the first of his two HR’s in Sunday’s series finale

Southwest Riverside’s own shine in wet weather as Goosen takes the Galleri Classic crown

JP Raineri Sports Editor

The verdant greens of Mission Hills Country Club in Rancho Mirage played host to a golfing spectacle that kept fans on the edge of their seats as the month of March ended. Amidst the unexpected showers that turned the final day of the Galleri Classic into a true test of resilience, it was Retief Goosen who emerged from the chaos, claiming victory in a dramatic and soggy battle against the elements—and the field.

Despite the rain, Southwest Riverside County was well represented by local talents like former Murrieta resident Tom Pernice Jr. and Temecula’s Corey Pavin (Journey at Pechanga course representative). But it was Goosen who lifted the trophy after outlasting Steven Alker in a finish fraught with stiff competition and a nerve-wracking battle with water hazards.

With the final holes echoing tension akin to the plot twists of a thriller, Goosen’s par at the last was enough to secure first place as he closed with a bogey-free 3-under 69, finishing at 13-under 203 for the tournament. Alker, Ricardo Gonzalez, and Alex Cejka, who all seemed poised to take the lead at different junctures, succumbed to the pressures of the finale, leaving them a stroke behind, and tied for second place.

“My strategy was to hold steady and aim for a respectable finish,” Goosen noted in the aftermath, pointing out that his performance was more about staying afloat than basking in the thrill of an easy win. Yet, his experience and calm under pressure served him well, as he took advantage of the misfortune that beset his rivals

over the closing holes. Goosen’s victory march, worth $330K, was almost drowned out by the sound of golf balls splashing into the waters surrounding the iconic island green of the 18th hole. Both Goosen and Alker found themselves submerged on their approach, but it was Goosen who navigated out of trouble with a putt that sealed the deal—a subdued yet poignant moment before the baffled crowd which had barely had time to process the turn of events.

The atmosphere might have been dampened by the rain, but the spirit and camaraderie among players and spectators alike were anything but. All eyes were on Alker’s solid performance up until the last few holes, but his sudden stumbles opened the door for Goosen, who grabbed the opportunity with both hands—or rather, one steady putter.

“The match came down to the wire, with less of the fanfare and more of an air of anticipation,” described a spectator, summing up the collective suspense. Goosen’s composed acknowledgment of the crowd epitomized the dignity and sportsmanship emblematic of the sport. While Goosen celebrated his win, hearts went out to Alker, who, until the penultimate hole, had the game within his grasp. But as in life, golf can be unpredictable, and the Galleri Classic was a testament to that unpredictability and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the face of adversity. Pernice would finish at T39 with a total of 216 strokes, while Pavin finished T55 with a total of 219 strokes.

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

Temecula Valley Chamber honors local students in March

Diane A. Rhodes Special to Valley News

The Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce Student of the Month program, recognizing and inspiring academic excellence since the 1992-1993 school year, held its most recent awards breakfast Thursday, March 21, at the Murrieta Sizzler restaurant, 40489 Murrieta Hot Springs Road. Great Oak Principal Aimee Ricken served as master of ceremonies, welcoming everyone and sharing the mission of the local high school recognition program which sets the criteria for the students who are chosen.

College or trade school bound seniors are honored for their character, their love of learning and their willingness to participate in numerous activities such as campus events, athletics and community service as well as how they have persevered through challenging life circumstances. They accomplish all this in a setting that honors God, country, community, family and free enterprise.

Backpacks filled with gifts, certificates of recognition and much more were donated by the program’s 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 are Chaparral High School’s Sheanna Cinco, Great Oak’s Anaya Sharee Hill, Linfield Christian’s Alyssa Lopez, Rancho Christian’s Madison Sammons, Saint Jeanne de Lestonnac’s Charlie Tippie, Temecula Preparatory School’s Miguel Maamo and Temecula Valley High School’s Annika Jost.

Sheanna Cinco Chaparral High School Principal Tina Miller introduced Cinco, an ASB leader and National Honor Society officer. When Miller asked how her friends would describe her, Cinco said “decisive,” and Miller couldn’t agree more. She has her sights set on becoming a dentist one day and will start her studies at University of California San Diego where she was recently accepted as a biochemistry major.

“The most significant life lesson I’ll take with me to UCSD is that everything happens for a reason,” Cinco said. “Every moment is part of one’s journey and while it’s important to look ahead at your future and to always keep moving forward, it is equally as important to live in the present and take

everything in.”

Chaparral’s Activities Director Jennifer Deleon said, “Sheanna puts the student body before herself and I think that is important for other high schoolers to see.”

Anaya Sharee Hill

Assistant Principal Amber Lane from Great Oak said Hill has three traits that prove she’s a great representative of the Wolfpack community.

“Anaya is smart, compassionate and dedicated,” Lane said.

The senior is in AVID, takes AP and IB courses, is a student volunteer for softball and is active in a variety of clubs. Hill shared that she was born in Las Vegas when her mother was just a teenager and said the area was not a good place to raise a family.

“It empowered me to face my challenges head on for a brighter future,” she said. “Finances have always been an obstacle in my family.”

She moved to Temecula in 2017 and said her parents worked tirelessly while she looked after her sisters who were 1 and 7 when she was just 12. Her current AVID teacher Amanda Lira said she nominated Hill because she’s determined.

“She’s used her challenges to find her passion for higher education,” Lira said.

Hill’s goal is to be an athletic trainer.

Alyssa Lopez Linfield Christian High School Principal Carrie Washburn said she has known Lopez since elementary school where she was a shy student. “She was also determined, and she still is,” Washburn said. Lopez said helping others through her involvement with ASB helped her gain confidence in herself and to be more comfortable talking to peers.

English teacher Melissa Blades said, “I can’t speak highly enough of who Alyssa is as a person and how she has blessed our school community. She’s a very hardworking student and I’m in awe of the way she continually pushes herself and challenges herself past any perceived limitations.”

Although Lopez stepped outside her comfort zone to take AP English Language, Blades said she was determined to be successful.

“As a result, I have seen so much growth in who she is as a person and as a writer and she’s knocking it out of the park now. It is 100 percent because of her determination,” Lopez said. Lopez plans to become a speech pathologist.

Madison Sammons

Principal Doris Jackson of

Rancho Christian High School said Sammons is a quiet, humble leader, an artist who loves to paint, a member of National Honor Society and California Scholarship Federation and a fierce soccer competitor.

“But most importantly she is a woman of Christ, which makes her so special,” she said. Sammons said her dream school is University of Southern California where she’d like to study business administration.

“I like to keep busy, and art ultimately is my passion,” Sammons said.

Teacher Wendy Gorham said Sammons transformed her shyness into quiet confidence and that she is a team player in and outside of sports.

“I think what’s impressed me the most with Madison over her high school career is watching her overcome setbacks and failures and learning from them,” Gorham said. “I think she’s learned that failure is not the opposite of success; failure is simply a steppingstone towards success and watching her become a better person as a result of that is huge to me.”

Charlie Tippie

Saint Jeanne de Lestonnac High School Principal Annette Zaleski explained that at her school all teachers vote for student of the month and Tippie overwhelmingly took this month’s title.

“He’s our unsung hero on campus,” she said. “He’s overcome challenges that many students do not face. He is captain of the eSports team, founded the Linguistics Club and is the epitome of Mustang pride and all it stands for.”

Noli students learn important job skills

Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians Special to Valley

News

Freshmen and sophomore students at Noli Indian School at the Soboba Reservation spent the past two weeks preparing for a day devoted to job skills. Ninth graders learned how to complete a job application, create a resume and take part in a mock interview for a proposed job as host/cashier at Soboba Casino Resort.

While the job is an actual position that is offered to those 18 and older, the students practiced their interview skills for future positions. Each was graded on a rubric that gave them 10-25 points based on four categories that are important for any job candidate to possess. They were rated on professional business attire, preparedness by arriving with application and resume in hand, speaking clearly and distinctly while exhibiting good posture and eye contact throughout the interview.

One of the volunteer interviewers was Eliza Persons, who is currently a receptionist at Morongo Casino Resort & Spa in Cabazon and previously worked as a director at San Gorgonio Memorial Hospital in Banning. Afterwards, she said her interviewees were excellent.

“I’ve had much worse interviews with full-grown adults,” she said.

Tippie said, “An important life lesson I learned is to be resilient. Even in positive moments it is important to remember that these are temporary so enjoy them to the fullest potential.”

He said adapting quickly and getting through things even when all seems lost is an essential virtue to have.

“My mom died when I was in eighth grade,” Tippie said. “This loss was a devastating challenge for me and my family and shortly after that the pandemic came.”

He said both those events led to an isolation problem but enrolling at St. Jeanne’s was good for him and he is grateful to those that helped him reach his goals.

“Had the darkness not been there, I would not have been here in the light today,” Tippie said.

Miguel Maamo

Temecula Preparatory School Upper School Dean Garrett Cordaun said Maamo is captain of the school’s track team, is a member of NHS and has a strong singing voice, taking solos while singing with the choir. Maamo is in the process of his acceptance interview after his sponsorship to the U.S. Naval Academy.

“All my life I’ve been running, but not sure what from,” Maamo said.

He has been captain of the varsity track team since joining in his freshman year and said one thing he always remembers is that you can’t do anything without your team. His teammates have inspired him to keep focused on his academics as well. “Run towards excellence and lean on others for support,” he said. “Crawl to the finish line if you have to.”

Math teacher Jamie Arreola said

Miguel is talented, committed and dedicated and reminded those who want to hear Maamo sing that he is featured in the school’s spring production of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “Cinderella,” Youth Edition Thursday, April 18, and Saturday, April 20. For tickets and more information, visit http://www.showtix4u.com/eventdetails/82834

Annika Jost

Temecula Valley High School

Principal Donna Lione introduced Jost as a four-year varsity soccer player who connects with students and teachers. She is a member of this year’s Science Olympiad team and has been a peer tutor in math and physics. Jost said three words her friends would use to describe her are goofy, honest and smart. Advice she would give to incoming freshmen is to “get connected and find people to have fun with but still do your work because it sets the tone for later.” Jost plans to continue the legacy of her father and attend the Air Force Academy.

“One thing that really stuck out to me this year is the saying, I am because you are,” Jost said, adding that it emphasizes the importance of family and pushing yourself to do your best.

She plans to study aerospace or aeronautical engineering while at the Academy before serving her country in military service. For more information, contact program chair Amber Poncy at 951-676-5090 or visit http:// temecula.org/student-of-themonth.

Recipients of the Temecula Valley Student of the Month award for March are, from left Sheanna Cinco, Anaya Sharee Hill, Charlie Tippie, Miguel Maamo, Madison Sammons, Alyssa Lopez and Annika Jost. Valley News/John P. Hess photo

High school sophomores Ronald Morillo, Edgar Gladin and Selaya Helms work on the homepage design for their imaginary business, T.A.G., or Trade and Go, at Noli Indian School, Tuesday, March 26.

Eliza Persons holds a mock interview with freshman Carlos Manzanilla during a job skills day at Noli Indian School. Valley News/Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians photos

Noli Indian School business manager Genna Santini, center, enlists the aid of Kathy Small, left, and Eliza Persons at a mandatory interview skills session for freshmen.

The team of Serena Hawk, Xavier Moreno and Shawna Rivera presents on the business they created that offers livestream and archived sporting events to subscribers. The assignment is required for Noli sophomores.

Endometriosis and fertility: Women should have hope

CALIFORNIA – Endometriosis affects 10%, or 190 million, of women and girls globally. It is a chronic disease associated with severe, life-impacting pain during periods, sexual intercourse, bowel movements and/or urination, chronic pelvic pain, abdominal bloating, nausea, fatigue and sometimes depression, anxiety and infertility. Treatment is usually aimed at controlling symptoms. Treatment depends on the extent of the disease, symptoms and whether there is desire to preserve fertility. Endometriosis may be treated with medication, surgery or both.

Melissa Money, a registered nurse and case manager in the emergency room at Kaiser Permanente Fontana Medical Center, said she had always experienced bad periods.

“Debilitating periods where I felt like I could not walk,” she said. Her monthly periods continued to get worse.

“The trigger for me finally

CA

going to the ER was when I started having bad rectal pressure and stabbing pain,” Money said. Endometriosis occurs when the endometrium, lining of the uterus, forms outside the uterus.

Dr. Marisol Flores, assistant area medical director at Kaiser Permanente San Bernardino County, said, “Many women with endometriosis have no symptoms. Women without symptoms often learn they have endometriosis when they cannot get pregnant or when they are having surgery for something else.”

She cared for Money following her visit to the emergency department. Following ultrasound, Money was diagnosed with a pelvic mass and underwent diagnostic laparoscopy, according to Flores. Money underwent surgery to remove an endometrioma cyst and lysis of adhesions.

Almost 4 in 10 women experiencing infertility have endometriosis, and inflammation from the condition may interfere

with fertilization or movement of a fertilized egg through the fallopian tubes and into the uterus. In severe cases of endometriosis, the fallopian tubes may be blocked by adhesions or scar tissue.

Money talked about her conversations with Flores regarding endometriosis pain management and surgeries.

“When I went in for surgery consultation, it was a possibility that depending on what the outcome was that I would need to have a hysterectomy at some point, and I would lose the ability to carry a child,” Money said. “I was only 29. That is not something that anybody at that age wants to figure out.”

The monthly chance of getting pregnant is approximately 1020%, while those with surgically documented endometriosis have a chance of 1-10%.

Money’s journey living with endometriosis has had her ups and downs.

“When you are going through

community colleges have handed out $5 million in aid to fake students since 2021

Micaela Ricaforte

The Epoch Times

California’s community colleges have handed out more than $5 million in financial aid to fraudulent students since 2021.

The bogus students are often bots who enroll, apply for a federal Pell grant—which can provide up to $7,600—collect it and then disappear.

Instances of financial aid fraud became widespread after 2021, when scammers began submitting fraudulent applications for federal aid and COVID-19 relief grants, according to state news outlet CalMatters.

Since then, such schemes became so prevalent that the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office began requiring in 2021 the colleges provide monthly reports regarding fraud.

NOLI from page C-4

“I got the vibe they would all like to work at the casino one day, which is exciting for the Tribe and the casino’s future.”

Also helping to give students a real employment interview experience was Kathy Small, who has worked for Soboba’s Human Resources department for three years but has been employed by the Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians for the past 12 years.

“I like to see where the kids are at and help them get ready for going out into the world,” Small said. She was impressed that the students she interviewed all referenced working at Powwows and other Tribal events. Sophomores were asked to work in small groups to create a business and design a mock homepage that would appeal to visitors to their website. They were not told what the assignment would be in advance, and they did not choose their own teammates. It required them to work together and make group decisions within the 15-minute time limit they were given. Each group was given time to present their business to judges who asked them questions they took turns answering.

Using a rubric with scores of 1 through 10, students were graded on how well they communicated with each other to figure out solutions, whether they used their time wisely, and if they exhibited knowledge and confidence during the presentation while engaging with the judges.

After a few minutes of brainstorming, the creative teams came up with very different business ideas and worked well together to execute their design and organize their page to reveal what their business offers.

Serena Hawk, Xavier Moreno and Shawna Rivera made Sports Live, a subscription service that allows customers to pick and choose which sporting event they want to watch, past and present, after a free trial.

Edgar Gladin, Selaya Helms,

It also implemented bot detection software on its websites, according to an August 2021 memo from the chancellor’s office. Colleges also report that in addition to federal Pell grants, they have collectively distributed $1.5 million in state and local aid to fraudulent students.

In January, a spokesperson for the state chancellor’s office told CalMatters that 25 percent of the system’s applicants were suspected of fraud.

Todd Coston, an associate vice chancellor with the Kern Community College District, told CalMatters that fraud has “gotten significantly worse” in recent years.

Mr. Coston said that in 2023, “something changed and all of a sudden everything spiked like crazy.” Online classes that typically

see less enrollment were suddenly packed–which, he said, was a sign that many students enrolled may be fake.

Mr. Coston attributed the increase in reported fraud numbers to improvement in detecting schemes.

The state has also allocated more than $125 million for fraud detection, cybersecurity and other changes in the online application process at community colleges since 2022, he told CalMatters.

Last month, three women were arrested for an alleged federal student aid fraud scheme that used the identities of prison inmates to enroll at a California community college and to obtain federal student loans amounting to nearly $1 million, according to the

Justice Department

Leland

Ronald Morillo and Leland Razon launched T.A.G., which stands for Trade and Go and allows customers to trade goods or services of equivalent value.

Franciso Lemus, Sandie Pimentel and Sophie Resvaloso offered an eco-friendly clothing line at Sophie’s Fashion Store, whose initials reflect their first names. The site offers all types of affordable items, including seasonal items as they also repurpose materials to manufacture

Valley News/Courtesy photo

it with endometriosis and you are not finding any relief, I would encourage people to still be proud of themselves,” she said. “You can be proud of yourself for just getting out of bed; that is an accomplishment when you are in pain and going through something so horrible. If you are in that dark, tough place, give yourself some grace and be proud of the little things that you can get done. Remember that the pain is not going to last forever. There will be relief one day, or at least I hope there will be.”

Endometriosis is far more common than is recognized. The cause of endometriosis is unknown, and there is no known way to prevent it. There is no cure, but its symptoms can be treated. To learn more about endometriosis treatments and pain, make an appointment with your doctor.

Submitted by Kaiser Permanente Southern California Region.

on DirectTV and author of the “Naturally Gourmet Cookbook,” will be conducting a cooking class focused on creating healthy recipes that taste good.

The class will be in the Fellowship Hall of the Fallbrook Seventh-day Adventist Church, 1200 Old Hwy 395, in Fallbrook Sunday, April 14, at 2 p.m. The class will include health information, cooking demonstrations and samples for class participants. The fee is $20 per person and includes recipes, food samples and handouts. Registration closes at 3 p.m. Friday, April 12.

For more information, call 760-387-7311 or email office@ fallbrookadventist.org

Submitted by Fallbrook Seventhday Adventist Church.

baskets, flowers and home decor.

“Our clothing is good for the environment and comfortable to be in,” Lemus said.

Facilitating both events was business manager Genna Santini, who has been at Noli for 10 years. The annual event is mandatory for ninth and 10th grade students to attend as it is worth a portion of their English grade. There are no make-up dates and students are encouraged to dress to impress.

Melissa Money, a registered nurse, was diagnosed with endometriosis after bad rectal pressure and stabbing pain during a period resulted in an ER visit.

Francisco Lemus, Sophie Resvaloso and Sandie Pimentel collaborate on a design for the homepage of their fashion line that offers eco-friendly clothing and other items at affordable prices.

Razon makes suggestions to the homepage design for T.A.G. while teammates discuss it before their presentation to judges.

Valley News/Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians photos

Highway Updates

Better weather may see freeway and highway construction work increasing in the

Tony Ault Staff Writer

Last week rain, wind, freeway offramp closures, and traffic accidents created havoc and time delays for many Valley residents. Better weather is predicted this week and many delayed California Department of Transportation, Riverside County Transportation Commission and city highway improvement projects will hopefully be catching up on those weather delayed projects.

Motorists in the Temecula and Murrieta area last week found Caltrans had closed a number of offramps during the nighttime hours, forcing motorists to seek alternate ways to enter and exit Interstate 15 to get to their homes or work. Traffic accidents did not help on both the I-15 and I-215.

This week may not be much better in some areas according to Caltrans, as contractors are working on installing trash capture devices on the I-15 to alleviate some increased trash along the freeway and its offramps. Trash accumulated during the recent heavy rains, and some complaints were heard from the two cities about the trash along the freeways and off-ramps which are maintained by Caltrans.

Since much better weather is predicted this upcoming week, contractors will be performing daytime operations Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nighttime operations are

Raising

scheduled for Monday from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. which may still require alternating full lane closures and lane reductions on I-15 from SR79 to Kalmia Street and California Oaks Road and from Baxter Road. to Bundy Canyon Road. Once off the freeway, motorists should still watch for construction alert signs coming from the City of Temecula whose contractors are working on the I-15/French Valley Parkway Phase 2 improvements. North of I-15 on the I-215 Menifee is continuing work on the Holland Avenue Overpass which is proceeding well and can be seen from Interstate 215.

With this much construction in the area drivers should anticipate traffic delays and plan ahead. All work is dependent on contractors receiving proper materials for each job function and the weather of course. Project schedules can be changed or canceled at any time.

This week other projects are underway: Murrieta/Wildomar Caltrans is alerting the public that construction will be taking place near Murrieta and Wildomar. Contractors will be working from Murrieta Hot Springs Road to Bundy Canyon Road. Daytime work is Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and nighttime operations are planned from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m., ensuring progress both day and night to enhance efficiency. All work is dependent on the contractor receiving proper materials for each

job function. It can be changed or canceled at any time. Work performed will include upgrading facilities to Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards and improving curbs and gutters.

Hemet

In Hemet, aside from hazardous road conditions being declared after the Easter weekend storm on Highway 74 (Florida Ave.) at Four Seasons in West Hemet and Meridian Street in East Hemet, Caltrans continues its work on the $51.6 million corridor improvement project in Hemet. This project will repave and rehabilitate 49 lane miles, install Traffic Management Systems, upgrade curb ramps, sidewalks and driveways to ADA standards, enhance bike lane signage and striping, and upgrade 29 bus pads within the project parameters.

Last week many of the bus pads at intersections being worked on were under water but should be drying up this week to allow the necessary cement pours. That work zone is in and near Hemet on SR-74 from Winchester Road (PM 34.3) to Fairview Avenue (PM 45.1) for a project length of 11.2 miles. Expect delays during nighttime operations. Use alternate routes to avoid any delays. Watch for alternate route signage for business access.

Lake Elsinore Lake Elsinore residents and those traveling between Lake Elsinore and San Juan Capistrano in Orange County on the Ortega

Highway or State Route 74 are finding travel difficult sometimes with the continuing Caltrans project to widen the highway and straighten out some dangerous curves.

That work on the west side of Lake Elsinore begins on Monte Vista Street at Highway 74 and goes into the Cleveland National Forest area leading into the beach cities near Camp Pendleton. There are some nightime closures coming this week from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. with pilot cars in place to lead when needed. Daytime work may occur in shoulder areas as needed.

The weeknight work still remains weather dependent and subject to change or cancellation at any time. Daytime work may occur in shoulder areas as needed. CHP will be on patrol on the highway.

Anza/Aguanga

Caltrans continues work on the $5.2 million slurry seal and rumble strips maintenance project on State Route 371 (SR-371) from Aguanga through Anza. 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 (SR-74) and SR-371. Work is weather and temperature dependent. Hours of operation are Monday through Saturday, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Watch for intermittent short term lane closures throughout the project zone. Motorists along this highway are urged to slow down rounding curves on that highway leading into the mountain communities.

The CHP and Riverside County Sheriff patrol these highways. Bridge work Caltrans is working on the $3.7 million bridge upgrade projects on State Route 74 (SR-74), State Route 79 (SR-79), State Route 86 (SR-86), State Route 111 (SR111), State Route 243 (SR-243), and Interstate 10 (I-10). Those bridge upgrades include concrete overlay, replacement of joint seals, and repairing/replacing approach slabs. Work hours of operations are Monday through Friday from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. Work will require weeknight traffic control. In Beaumont and Banning, bridge deck work will be taking place this week near Gilman Springs Road and on SR-111 near Cathedral City. Work is also progressing on the Strawberry Creek Bridge on the way from Hemet to Mountain Center on Highway 74 and on the Morrill Canyon Bridge near Lake Elsinore. A temporary traffic signal is in place before and after the Strawberry Bridge project that motorists are urged to obey as only one lane is open in that area. They are also being urged to be careful on the remainder of the highway and to watch for falling rocks on the highway. Snow and ice may still be on a portion of that highway and on SR 243 outside of Idyllwild leading into Banning. Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com

hope for a brighter future: Flag ceremony highlights fight against child abuse

RIVERSIDE – The Riverside County Family Service Association and the HOPE Collaborative hosted the second annual Child Abuse Prevention flag raising ceremony to honor children impacted by violence, abuse and neglect. This year’s event aimed to further educate the community on recognizing the signs of abuse and neglect, while highlighting the collaborative efforts undertaken by various organizations to safeguard the well-being of children.

“The Riverside County Board of Supervisors remains committed to safeguarding our most vulnerable children,” Second District Supervisor Karen Spiegel said. “We stand united to ensure a comprehensive system of care is available to support children who have been subjected to the trauma of abuse and neglect and to provide ample services that will empower them to heal. It remains our fundamental responsibility to protect those who cannot protect themselves.”

The ceremony recognized the critical services provided by the Riverside County Child Assessment Team and the Sexual Assault and Forensic Evaluation Team. RCAT is comprised of highly trained medical professionals who conduct comprehensive medical evaluations when abuse and neglect are suspected. SAFE provides 24/7 forensic examinations and evidence collection for victims

of sexual assault, guaranteeing children receive both necessary medical attention in a timely mater and the forensic support needed to prosecute offenders. These specialized units play a vital role in ensuring the well-being of children who have experienced abuse or trauma.

Protecting children requires a collective effort that transcends

individual organizations. In Riverside County, Family Service Association serves as the designated Child Abuse Prevention Council known as the HOPE Collaborative. “FSA strives to prevent child abuse, help families thrive and build stronger communities,” Stephanie Soto, director of community services, said. “We partner with dozens of organizations to

address the root causes of child maltreatment, such as poverty, lack of access to resources and mental health issues. Through educational programs, awareness campaigns and community outreach, we empower parents and caregivers with the knowledge and skills they need to raise healthy and happy children.”

The HOPE Collaborative convenes monthly meetings in each supervisorial district in Riverside County and engages professionals, parents and volunteers. Dozens of representatives from child welfare, schools, law enforcement, probation, medical centers, children’s advocates and local faith-based agencies collaborate on the region’s safety and wellbeing. For more information contact the HOPE Collaborative by calling 951-369-8036 or by visiting its website at http://www. hopecollaborative.org

If you have reason to believe that a child you know is experiencing abuse or neglect, report it immediately to law enforcement or to the local child welfare agency. Your voice may save a child’s life. For more information, visit http:// www.hopecollaborative.org Riverside County has approximately 40 departments serving more than 2.4 million residents. Services ranging from public safety, health and human services, public works and community services, as well as

budget and finance. The county serves approximately 1 million residents a year through its human services departments to ensure residents have critical resources and support.

For 70 years, Family Service Association has addressed poverty, hunger and health, from infancy to older adults, in families and underserved communities. Through early education, trauma-informed mental health services, obtainable senior housing, support for homebound individuals, safe senior/ community centers and nutritious meals for older adults, FSA’s team members serve over 13,000 community members each year. FSA also leads the county’s Child Abuse Prevention Council, The HOPE Collaborative. FSA’s motto is compelling, Family Strength Is Community Strength.

The HOPE Collaborative serves as Riverside County’s Child Abuse Prevention Council. With a focus on interagency collaboration, community awareness, education, policy advocacy and mandatory reporter training, the HOPE collaborative works closely with law enforcement, school districts, nonprofits, medical providers, mental health professionals, faith-based groups, community advocates and the department of public and social services towards the prevention of child abuse and neglect in Riverside County. Submitted by Riverside County.

Second District Supervisor Karen Spiegel provides remarks at the second annual Child Abuse Prevention flag raising ceremony, Tuesday, April 2. Valley News/Courtesy photo

New Yorkers silently worrying over ramifications of Trump ruling

Janice Hisle,

Catherine

Yang

The Epoch Times

The dramatic bond reduction on March 25 for former President Donald Trump did nothing to dissipate the dark cloud that his civil fraud case has cast over New York business deals.

Although investors won’t publicly admit it, the case is having a chilling effect, according to Charles Trzcinka, professor of finance at Indiana University–Bloomington.

“If you talk to people in this market, they are very, very upset ... and these are people who are neutral or even opposed to Trump,” he told The Epoch Times. “They’re just angry about it.”

In his role at the university, Mr. Trzcinka said he places students in the corporate lending market in New York, making him aware of trends in that sphere.

An appeals court’s decision to slash the bond by about 60 percent, reducing it to $175 million, still left a massive penalty intact while President Trump continues a legal challenge of Justice Arthur Engoron’s ruling.

Justice Engoron ruled that President Trump and his associates fraudulently overvalued their assets. But Mr. Trzcinka said anyone who thinks President Trump’s activities in that case were irregular or fraudulent may lack an understanding of typical New York business transactions.

A source familiar with the case told The Epoch Times that, normally, business-related cases are handled in the New York courts’ commercial division.

There, cases are decided by judges who have specific, “sophisticated” knowledge of commercial law and business practices.

But the case didn’t go that route because New York Attorney General Letitia James found a novel way to use New York’s antifraud law.

Researchers examined other alleged fraud cases in New York over a 70-year period and found that the Trump case stands alone. The Trump Organization was the only company that confronted the possibility of being forced out of business despite that no victim suffered major financial harm.

Because of Ms. James’s unusual application of the law, the case was channeled to a court that would rarely, if ever, handle businessrelated matters.

“This case proceeded in just a highly irregular fashion from the start,” the source said.

‘A Degree of Horror’ Legal scholar Jonathan Turley agreed that the case is atypical and its repercussions are far-reaching.

“This has really done great damage to the New York legal system,” Mr. Turly told Fox News.

“Businesses are looking at this with a degree of horror—that a judge could come up with a figure so large you have to sell parts of your business just to get an appeal.”

However, people who dislike President Trump are cheering on Ms. James. She ran for attorney general on a promise to prosecute the former president.

Before the court-ordered bond reduction, the original $464 million bond amount included a $363 million judgment that Justice Engoron levied against President Trump and his associates, plus 9 percent interest.

Speaking to reporters after the March 25 appellate court’s decision, President Trump called Justice Engoron’s original decision a “disservice” to New York. “Businesses are fleeing,” he said.

The case promises to continue discouraging investors from doing business in the Empire State, Mr. Trzcinka and two other knowledgeable sources told The Epoch Times.

That’s not only because of the crippling dollar amounts involved, the sources said, but also because President Trump and his associates were behaving within the bounds of normal business practice and victimized no one.

“All the parties under this civil case were satisfied,” Mr. Trzcinka said. Yet Ms. James “brought a case without a victim” and secured a judgment approaching $500 million.

“I have never heard of a victimless civil case that even won $500,” he said.

Silently Worrying Businesspeople are afraid to express concerns about the ramifications aloud. Doing so would paint targets on their

backs—an underlying reason why President Trump was unable to persuade bonding companies or banks to cover the original $464 million bond, Mr. Trzcinka and the sources said.

“I don’t think a bonding company [or a bank] is willing to be associated with Donald Trump. ... because the attorney general could turn around and sue them, go after them,” Mr. Trzcinka said.

Justice Engoron ruled that President Trump and his associates committed fraud by overvaluing his properties. Parties involved in real estate transactions tend to exaggerate values in one way or the other, and they “hit each other over the head” with dueling appraisals, Mr. Trzcinka said.

And, in a case such as this one, “everyone had the same information and just came to different conclusions” as to the valuations, he said. Then the parties negotiated figures and agreed to them.

Unaffordable for a MultiBillionaire?

Even before interest was added, Justice Engoron slapped President Trump with “the largest penalty in history” for a case of its kind, Mr. Trzcinka said.

He had never heard of such a high penalty imposed for a “syndicated loan,” which involves civil contracts between a corporate borrower and corporate lenders.

About $355 million of the total order specifically applied to President Trump. In addition, the judge ordered $4 million to be recovered from two of his sons, Eric Trump and Donald Trump Jr., and $1 million from former Trump Organization Chief Financial Officer Allen Weisselberg.

Even the ultra-wealthy would rarely, if ever, have rapid access to hundreds of thousands of dollars in liquid assets, Mr. Trzcinka and other financial experts have said.

Marshaling that much cash to post the bond in just 30 days proved to be a daunting task for President Trump; the appellate court’s ruling granted him 10 more days to post a reduced $175 million bond.

That decision moved the amount from “the realm of the impossible” into a different category. “It’s expensive, but it’s feasible,” a source said.

Delia Jimenez Cioc named Riverside County’s new Agricultural Commissioner/ Sealer of Weights and Measures

RIVERSIDE COUNTY – Delia

Jimenez Cioc was appointed as the first female Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer of Weights and Measures by the Riverside County Board of Supervisors. Jimenez Cioc offers a deep understanding of agricultural practices, environmental protection, consumer protection and weights and measures regulations to her new role after nearly two decades within Riverside County’s Agricultural Commissioner’s Office. Jimenez Cioc began her journey with the Riverside County Agricultural Commissioner’s Office in 2004 after graduating from California State Polytechnic University Pomona with a bachelor’s degree in agricultural biology. Over the years, she has showcased exemplary dedication and leadership in various capacities within the department.

“We are pleased to welcome Delia as the new Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer of Weights and Measures,” county board Chair Chuck Washington, Third District, said. “With a true passion for agriculture and public service, we look forward to working closely with her to support and innovate the county’s agricultural sector.”

Throughout her tenure, Jimenez Cioc has held pivotal roles, including Supervising Agricultural and Standards Investigator, Deputy Agricultural Commissioner/ Sealer, and most recently, Assistant Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer. In these positions, she has overseen critical aspects of departmental operations, including managing substantial budgets, supervising personnel and ensuring regulatory compliance.

In addition to her professional

Delia Jimenez Cioc is the new Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer of Weights and Measures for Riverside County.

accomplishments, Jimenez Cioc holds a master’s degree in public administration from California Baptist University, further enhancing her ability to serve the community effectively.

“As the new Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer of Riverside County, I remain committed to promoting and protecting our agriculture, the environment, and the residents of our beautiful and diverse county while upholding equity in the marketplace,” Jimenez Cioc said. Jimenez Cioc’s passion for agriculture dates back to her childhood, where she was surrounded by fields of wheat, corn, grapevines and sunflowers. This

A number of bonding companies said that the most they could shoulder would be $100 million, President Trump’s lawyers said in court filings, adding that many people worked countless hours to find possible solutions to the former president’s predicament.

Not Like a Parking Ticket

A Trump insider said it was patently unfair to pressure President Trump to come up with those funds so fast.

“This timeframe is insane,” the insider, who spoke to The Epoch Times on condition of anonymity, said. “I’ve been given more time to pay a parking ticket in New York City than Donald Trump has been given to pay a $500 million bond.”

Indeed, parking violators in the Big Apple may delay payments and late fees for “about 100 days” before facing a court judgment with interest, a city website states.

In contrast, officials granted President Trump less than onethird of that amount of time to fulfill the bond requirement of nearly $500 million.

On March 22, the former president announced that he had secured almost $500 million in cash. That was just three days before a deadline that authorities set for the bond to be posted. In a post on his Truth Social account, he strongly implied he might use that money to cover the bond.

On March 25, after the appeals court reduced the bond to $175 million, a reporter shouted a question, asking what collateral he would use for that bond. President Trump replied, “Cash.”

President Trump did not disclose the specific sources of the money but said he was planning to use a significant portion of the amassed $500 million toward his 2024 presidential campaign.

‘Devalued’ NY Property

President Trump also pointed out that, because of financial disclosure laws, Justice Engoron was aware of how much money he had available.

In a social media post, President Trump alleged that Justice Engoron set the penalty to correspond with his disclosed amount of funds.

Citing the very specific dollar amounts listed in the judgment, Mr. Trzcinka said it almost seemed as though the figures came from “a random number generator.” In court records, Justice

Engoron said he based his decision on the testimony of an expert who calculated how much the defendants benefited from “illgotten interest rate savings” resulting from the inflated value of assets.

The former president has repeatedly alleged that civil and criminal cases against him constitute “election interference”; in a recent social media post, he included a section of federal law that might apply regarding interfering with political opponents’ campaigns.

President Trump is the Republican Party’s presumptive nominee to oppose the Democrats’ apparent nominee, President Joe Biden, in the November general election.

President Biden and others have denied political motivations. However, recent evidence has surfaced showing contact between some prosecutors and the White House before President Trump’s indictments.

Ms. James was poised to begin seizing President Trump’s assets if he had failed to meet the previous 30-day, $464-million bond deadline.

Other businesspeople are looking at this situation, Mr. Trzcinka said, and asking themselves, “If they can do this to Trump, what’s going to happen to me?”

He said that if the penalty assessed had been $10 million or less, the case would be far less worrisome; but with the amount exceeding $300 million, “it just crushes the big market,” he said.

Investors have always had to consider cashflow risks and the risk of lawsuits. Because of the Trump case, the risk of adverse government action has just increased exponentially, Mr. Trzcinka said, adding, “as soon as risk goes up, investments go down.”

As a result, the case has “devalued the property in New York City,” he said.

“This now is a huge problem for them, and it came out of the blue,” Mr. Trzcinka said.

Michael Washburn and The Associated Press contributed to this report.

News/Courtesy

early connection to farming instilled in her a profound appreciation for the industry, which she continues to nurture through her personal and professional endeavors. Outside of work, she enjoys cultivating fruits and vegetables in her backyard and exploring different cuisines and cultures during her travels.

In her new role, Jimenez Cioc assumes leadership of more than 50 employees tasked with upholding the functions of Riverside County’s Agricultural Commissioner’s Office in service to the community.

This appointment follows the retirement of the former Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer, Ruben Arroyo.

Submitted by RivCo Now.

Valley

photo

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

Volunteers welcome. For more information, contact the AEC office at 951763-4333.

Friends of Anza Valley Community Library – Anza Valley Community Library is located at Hamilton High School, 57430 Mitchell Road. The library is open to the

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.

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,

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

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

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

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

Sheriff’s Blotter

The

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

DEPUTIES from page D-1

seriously, protecting sisters Trinity and Selah, as well as mom and dad. “As parents, we believe in being intentional with our children,” said father Zachary Auguletto. “It’s our priority to model important aspects like a love for learning, working hard, honoring God and country, respecting those who protect us and to work hard to build and sustain our community. Our hope is by sharing a glimpse into our lives, we can inspire other parents to know that each of us can change the world by the way we train our children.”

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

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

Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo

Five-year-old Benjamin Judge Auguletto helps prepare metal to be welded with his father Zachary, who is training him in fire safety. Anza Valley Outlook/Courtesy photos

Benjamin Judge Auguletto sits in a Riverside County Sheriff’s Rural Crime Team truck Saturday, April 6.

from page D-1

by several ladies

Thimble Club, please email

Annie Ashby at annieandjima@ yahoo.com

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

LIBRARY from page D-1

the surrounding mountain communities.

Positions available are board secretary and Social Media Director.

“As a key member of our organization, the secretary will play a vital role in maintaining accurate records, documenting meeting minutes and assisting with organizational communications,” said board president Jill Roberts. “We are looking for a detailoriented, organized individual passionate about promoting literacy and learning within our community.”

In addition to the secretary position, the nonprofit is looking for a volunteer Social Media Director to help expand their online presence and engage

with the community through various social media platforms. According to Roberts, this role is ideal for someone with experience in social media management, content creation, and community engagement. Volunteers are also needed in other areas, such as event coordination, fundraising, outreach and administrative support. “We welcome individuals of all backgrounds and skills to join us in supporting the Anza Community Library and fostering a love of reading and lifelong learning,” Roberts said.

The nonprofit’s board of directors and committee chairpersons meet one Saturday each month at the Anza Community Library, located at 57430 Mitchell Road in Anza. The library is open Thursday and

Friday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

“Our nonprofit organization is built on the dedication and passion of our volunteers,” said Roberts. “By joining our board of directors or volunteering in other capacities, you can make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals in our community.”

Those interested in volunteering with Friends of the Anza Community Library should contact Jill Roberts at 858- 7745855 or friendsofanzalibrary@ gmail.com. To learn more, please visit www.friendsofanzalibrary. org

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

A fashionable young lady exhibits perfect poise at the Anza Thimble Club’s Victorian Tea in 2018. Fashionable will be offered for sale at the Anza Thimble Club’s Victorian Tea Saturday, April 13. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photos

Victorian-era dress is encouraged at the Anza Thimble Club’s Victorian Tea Saturday, April 13.

that they may lose their jobs altogether.

It just seems that the more the government interferes, the more businesses have to get creative. So the fast food chains, McDonalds, Wendy’s, Jack in the Box, etc likely will be laying off thousands of workers and implementing automated kiosks over time, which they have been testing over the last few years. Why not? If employees aren’t

U.S.A. needs new leadership

Dear Editor; As a U.S. Navy Veteran, I find it utterly disgusting and contemptible that the Biden Administration is taking Israel to the woodshed over a mistaken and tragic drone strike resulting in the deaths of food aid workers. Especially contemptible, among Joe Biden’s rogues’ gallery of propagandists, is former Navy admiral and current White House “national security” spokeshole John Kirby.

Kirby chastised the Israeli Defense Force for the aid worker deaths, while hypocritically downplaying similar accidental deaths by U.S. Forces of innocent Afghanis during President Biden’s disastrous withdrawal from Kabul in August 2021. Yet the simple truth remains, Israel has gone to tremendous lengths to limit civilian casualties.

Meanwhile, the Palestinians’ Hamas continues its desperate reign of terror, while garnering crocodile tear sympathy from twisted international supporters, and holding both innocent Israelis and Americans as hostages. Adding insult to injury, Joe Biden delights in slandering fellow Americans, Republicans, as ”semifascist” while he and his administration pander to the true heirs of Nazism, Hamas.

I find it incredulous that John Kirby and I served in the same Navy. His prevarications

affordable, then they have to come up with a way to keep their prices down so that people will still buy their product and they can keep from losing their business.

The sad thing is that food has already become more expensive, inflation is increasing the cost of almost everything, so automation seems to be a reasonable investment. Also, the kiosks never call in sick, or talk back, or steal from you.

The manufacturers also claim that it makes the ordering process easier, tracks all the orders, sometimes increases revenue, and offers a personalized customer experience. What? A personalized customer experience? I don’t know about you, but I really appreciate

and propaganda are unbecoming for a man who wore the uniform of his country. Even the late U.S. Senator John McCain rightfully called Kirby an “idiot” some ten years ago.

Both Joe Biden and John Kirby shouldn’t throw stones in glass houses. The U.S. ought to be doing everything possible to support Israel in ending the reign of the radical Islamist Hamas, and freeing all of the innocent hostages. Any surviving members of Hamas ought to be charged with crimes against humanity. Those convicted should be hanged, just like the Nazi war criminals at the Nuremberg Trials.

Expect the Biden Administration to continue to sellout Israel, the only free democracy throughout the Middle East, while Biden desperately panders for votes among small and noxious groups of Palestinian supporters and college campus radicals. Joe Biden and his administration exemplify the Talmudic dictum that essentially states … “Those who are merciful to the cruel will be cruel to the merciful.”

The United States of America desperately needs new leadership.

Sincerely,

Rick Reiss Temecula

those human beings who offer a smile, greet me, take my order, and possibly banter a little bit.

As AI and automation starts to replace our truck drivers, our restaurant workers, and many other jobs, I just think we may be missing something more important.

I know I’ve written this before, but our jobs are more than just a place where we make money. It gives us purpose to get out of bed. The work we do for and with each other is important.

I think about the diners in town.

The work we do for each other is important. It’s part of what makes a community a great place to interact.

When you set a minimum wage that is above what is already one of the highest statewide minimum wages in the country, it is going to negatively impact the marketplace.

I wonder at what point a restaurant won’t be able to adjust anymore? At what point will the customer experience have been changed too much and the price of their food have been increased so much that people will just stop going?

How important are the servers and cooks? I wonder if the server who helps a senior for breakfast or lunch may be the only interaction and smile that senior has with someone face to face all day. I don’t believe a kiosk can ever replace that.

A message from Yxstian Gutierrez, District 5 County Supervisor

Have you filed your taxes yet? Do you need help filing your taxes? If this sounds like you, then I am eager to share some resources that may help: the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Tax Program and United Way’s My Free Taxes service. The VITA Tax Program is run by the Community Action Partnership of Riverside County and helps low- and moderateincome individuals and families with tax preparation at https://capriverside.org/ volunteer-income-tax-assistance . The program provides free tax preparation services to individuals and families with income up to $85,000. There are multiple locations throughout the county during the tax season from Jan. 30, to April 15, ready to assist people. Gather the following items for your tax preparation: identification – no copies; income and earnings; education expenses; childcare expenses; health insurance expenses and HUD-1 Form and 1098 statements.

If you don’t qualify within the financial parameters, you can learn how to prepare taxes for your tax return.

If you would like to file your own taxes

FAITH

What happened after Jesus’ resurrection?

Zachary Elliott Special to the Valley News

up all the Taco Bell drive-thrus. You know, the good stuff.

Everyone has a list of things they want to do before they “kick the bucket.” But what would you do if you died and came back to life three days later? Would you hide?

Start a new life all over under a different name? Who would ever believe you came back from the dead if you did?

After Jesus rose from the dead, he did everything on his list. “After his suffering, he presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God,” in Acts 1:4.

For 40 days and beyond, Jesus checked off his post-resurrection bucket list.

Here’s a list of what happened

after Jesus’ resurrection.

He appeared to Mary Magdalene in John 20:14-16.

He appeared to Mary, the mother of James, Salome and Joanna in Matthew 28:9.

He appeared to Peter in Luke 24:34.

He appeared to the two disciples on the road to Emmaus in Luke 24:13-16.

He appeared to the disciples without Thomas in John 20:19-24.

He appeared to all the disciples, including Thomas in John 20:2628.

He appeared to seven disciples and helped them fish on the Sea of Galilee in John 21:1-2.

He appeared to the 11 disciples on the mountain of Galilee in Matthew 28:16-17.

He appeared to over 500 people at one time in 1 Corinthians 15:6.

online, I recommend using United Way’s My Free Taxes

He appeared to James in 1 Corinthians 15:7.

He gave the Great Commission in Matthew 28:16-20 and Mark 16:15-16.

He promised the Holy Spirit in Acts 1:7-8.

He ascended into heaven to sit on the throne at God’s right hand in Acts 1:9-11 and Hebrews 1:3-4.

He sent the promised Holy Spirit in Acts 2:1-31.

He launched his church with 3,000 people getting saved in Acts 2:42-47 and Acts 4:32-37.

He appeared to Saul on the Damascus road in Acts 9.

He’s planning his return according to Revelation 22:12, 20.

With such an extensive list, there’s no denying that Jesus wanted to make his bodily resurrection and his mission for us clear and for all to see. None of

these activities were done in secret. They were public events.

The life change Jesus brought about by rising from the dead has circled the globe, offering forgiveness, grace and hope to millions of people. Fulfilling the words of Jesus, the “gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come,” in Matthew 24:14.

Do you believe it? Jesus said, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed,” in John 20:29.

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