Valley News - August 1, 2025

Murrieta Hot Springs Road widening project to start in the coming weeks

MURRIETA – A long-awaited infrastructure project will widen the roadway from four lanes to six lanes between Margarita Road and Winchester Road (SR-79). This expansion aims to alleviate congestion, improve traffic flow, and enhance pedestrian safety.

Young artists celebrated by Hemet Valley Art Association

Diane A. Rhodes Contributor

After completing a Children’s Art Exploration Week at the Hemet Valley Art Association taught by Alison Wieman and her granddaughter Opal Larkin, participants had their artwork displayed at the downtown Hemet gallery during an open house on July 19. The event showcased HVAA Junior Members who were recognized as the featured artists of the month. Other artists of all ages were also on hand to interact with guests and the young members.

Five musthave summer houseplants for your SoCal home

Andrew Almazan

Special to Valley News

Summer in Southwest Riverside County is hot, dry, and bursting with sunlight—which makes it a dream for houseplant lovers who know what to shop for. Whether you’re a seasoned plant collector or browsing the aisles of your favorite nursery, the options can be overwhelming.

Five family-friendly parks & playgrounds to visit in Temecula

Eagle Sore Playground & Splash Pad.

thrilled to know that our towns in Southwest Rivco boast some great parks and playgrounds to enjoy. Temecula isn’t just a

destination for wine lovers— it’s packed with outdoor gems that families can flock to year around. Whether your little ones love splashing, skating, fishing, or just burning energy on the

Valley News/Andrew Almazan photo playground, there’s a perfect local spot waiting for you. We’ve highlighted just a few to get your wheels turning.

Menifee mourns the loss of former Mayor John V. Denver

TEMECULA — Community leaders and local residents gathered on Thursday, July 24 to celebrate the grand opening of the Riverside County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s new Temecula office.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony, held in partnership with the Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce, marked a significant expansion of county services in Southwest Riverside County. Riverside County Treasurer-Tax Collector Matthew Jennings and County Supervisor Chuck Washington delivered remarks during the event, highlighting the importance of accessible, modernized

services for the growing region.

“The opening of this new location reflects our ongoing commitment to making government services more accessible and responsive,” Jennings said. “We’re proud to invest in this region and to continue meeting the financial needs of our communities.” Strategically located in the heart of Temecula Valley, the new office is designed to enhance customer service with upgraded facilities and easier access for residents and businesses. The expansion aims to streamline the see OFFICE, page

The City of Menifee is mourning the passing of former Mayor and Councilmember John V. Denver, a longtime public servant affectionately known as the “Father of Menifee.” Denver, who moved to Menifee in 1985, devoted decades to the community as an elected official, educator, and realtor. He began his public service with 17 years as a trustee for the Perris Union High School District before joining Menifee’s inaugural City Council. He served a total of 10 years on the council, including a term as Mayor in 2012.

A key figure in Menifee’s cityhood movement, Denver was instrumental in laying the foundation for the city’s governance and infrastructure. He helped adopt Menifee’s first General Plan and Parks Master

Plan, and he championed critical infrastructure projects, including the construction of Fire Station No. 7.

Beyond city government, Denver was a well-known figure in the community, actively participating in organizations like the Menifee Valley Chamber of Commerce and the Rotary Club of Menifee. He also worked as a real estate broker for more than 30 years. His approachable style and commitment to public service earned him the admiration of colleagues and residents alike.

In 2019, Rancho Ramona Park was renamed John V. Denver Park in honor of his lasting contributions to the city. Known for donning a Santa Claus suit each holiday season—alongside

Former Menifee mayor John V. Denver. Valley News/Courtesy photo

Vote-by-mail ballots for August 26 Special General Election on the way to voters

The County of Riverside Registrar of Voters Office has sent 315,000 vote-by-mail ballots for the August 26, 2025, Assembly District 63 Special General Election to the U.S. Postal Service on Monday, July 28, 2025. Assembly District 63 represents Canyon Lake, Menifee, Norco, and parts of Corona, Eastvale, Lake Elsinore, and Riverside.

Submission deadline

To be counted, completed ballots must be received at the

Registrar of Voters office or any vote center within the voting perimeter of Assembly District 63 no later than the close of polls at 8 p.m. on Election Day. Ballots must be postmarked on or before Election Day and received no later than seven days after Election Day, September 2, 2025. Return options Vote-by-mail ballots can be returned through the postal service. Voters who return their ballot by mail are not required to include

postage on the return envelope. Ballots can also be deposited in official vote-by-mail drop-off boxes, located within the voting perimeter of Assembly District 63. City clerk drop-off locations and hours of operation can be found on the registrar’s website at www.voteinfo.net. Two 24hour drop boxes are available outside the main entrance of the registrar’s office at 2720 and 2724 Gateway Drive in Riverside.

Additionally, vote-by-mail ballots can be dropped off in person at any vote center within the voting perimeter of Assembly District 63 before 8 p.m. on Election Day.

Early voting at the Registrar of Voters office began on July 28, 2025, and continues Monday through Friday (excluding county holidays) from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The registrar’s office will be open to voters on Election Day from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Firefighters make quick work of rural vegetation fire

Eligibility and registration information

Voters who wish to register, update their address, or update their name on their registration, must complete a voter registration application by Monday, August 11, 2025. Residents can check eligibility and register online at registertovote.ca.gov or request a paper application by calling 951486-7200.

Submitted by the County of Riverside Registrar of Voters.

structures and more acreage.

Fire crews held the burn area to about two acres with moderate to heavy fuels. There was a possible structure threat. The blaze was quickly extinguished, and crews will remain on the scene for at least four hours for mop-up.

Santa Ana Water Board strengthens nutrient contaminant levels for Lake Elsinore, Canyon Lake

RIVERSIDE – In a move designed to improve water quality in Lake Elsinore and Canyon Lake, the Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Control Board adopted stricter limits Friday, July 25, on nutrients that can lead to harmful

algal bloom eruptions, threaten aquatic habitat and restrict recreational opportunities The lakes in western Riverside County have long faced challenges related to excessive amounts of nutrients – primarily nitrogen and phosphorus – that fuel toxic algal growth and deplete oxygen needed for marine life, resulting in fish kills and posted advisories urging the public in affected areas not to participate in water-related outdoor activities.

The Santa Ana Water Board initially adopted the Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) – which define how much of a specific pollutant a waterbody can tolerate and meet water quality standards - in 2004. The revisions establish interim and final numeric targets for chlorophyll-a, ammonia and dissolved oxygen to reduce nutrient loads from both external sources (watershed runoff) and internal sources (lake bottom sediments).

“This significant step reflects our commitment to improve water quality and protect the beneficial uses of these vital waterbodies in the San Jacinto River watershed,” said regional board Chair Kristine Murray. “Through a collaboration with our partners, we have made significant strides in both Lake Elsinore, which is a natural waterbody, and Canyon Lake, a man-made reservoir.”

The TMDL is the result of extensive scientific research and a new approach that utilizes advanced water quality models to determine achievable targets. The joint effort involved the board, the Lake Elsinore and San Jacinto Watersheds Authority, and the Lake Elsinore and Canyon Lake TMDL Task Force, which includes stakeholders from municipal, state, federal, tribal agencies and agricultural interests.

“These lakes are central to the identity and quality of life in our region,” said Bob Magee, chair of the watershed authority. This revised TMDL is more than a

regulatory update. It’s a foundation for restoration, resilience and renewed recreational opportunity. We appreciate the leadership of the Santa Ana Water Board and the countless agencies and stakeholders who help bring this effort to fruition.”

To implement the changes that officially amend the region’s Basin Plan, a comprehensive set of tasks and schedules was established that includes continued and expanded nutrient control measures, in-lake projects such as the Lake Elsinore Aeration and Mixing System, Canyon Lake alum applications and monitoring programs to track progress.

The plan will be administered in three phases: Phase 1 (2005-2020) focused on initial nutrient reduction efforts; Phase II includes milestones and interim numeric targets to be achieved within 20 years; and Phase III (20-30 years) sets final numeric targets and allocations to be achieved within 30 years.

The Santa Ana region, which extends from the San Bernardino and San Gabriel mountains to the north and east, to Newport Bay along the coast, is one of the fastest growing areas of the state. Though geographically the smallest of the Water Boards’ nine regions, the Santa Ana regional staff strives to protect, enhance, and restore water quality for almost 5 million Californians.

Submitted by the State Water Resources Control Board.

Julie Reeder

Firemen make quick work of a fire on Sunset in Menifee on July 26, 2025.

Firefighters were able to keep the burn area to a couple of acres, saving structures on and around the Menifee property. Valley News/Brian Briggs photos

A kayaker enjoys Lake Elsinore in 2020. Valley News/Shane Gibson photo

AUGUST

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Harveston Lake Park

Serene and scenic, this park wraps around a 17-acre manmade lake at the heart of the masterplanned Harveston community. It offers paved walking loops, several species of bird that call the area home, turtles, paddle boat rentals, a playground, shaded picnic areas, and plenty of space to lounge on the grass with a blanket, a book, and your favorite people. Harveston is a bustling and almost surreal park in terms of its grandeur as well as the amount of locals that flock to use the grounds. Outside of the central lake attraction the neighborhood also boasts the Harveston Community Park just a short distance away. It features a children’s playground, lit baseball and football/soccer field, plenty of picnic space, and it’s also approved for inflatable bounce house use.

Fun Fact: Harveston’s lakeside development was inspired by small-town East Coast communities, bringing a bit of New England charm to Southern California living.

Best for: Lakeside strolls, catchand-release fishing, quiet picnics, and toddler-friendly play dates.

Eagle Soar Playground & Splash Pad

One of the most inclusive parks in the region, Eagle Soar was purpose-built with universal design features for children of all physical and developmental abilities. It exceeds the ADA standard for playgrounds and features interactive sensory stations, wheelchairaccessible equipment, and a splash pad for summer relief. Unfortunately, some recent underground maintenance issues have temporarily shut down the splash pad, but the dual playground setup, and Margarita Recreation Center within the same parking lot offer plenty of family-friendly options.

Temecula Parks and Rec released an official statement on the indefinite closure of the splash pad 6 weeks ago via Instagram, in a reel highlighting the splash pad portion of the playground

Temecula P&R mentioned “Just to clarify we are currently handling an emergency repair on underground components. Our hard-working maintenance team is getting estimates and once we have a firm timeline, we will let everyone know when we will be able to reopen the splash pad.”

A local resident commented on that same thread 2 weeks ago asking for updates and Temecula P&R responded, “No new updates just yet, but we’ll share something the moment we know more.”

We are optimistic and will keep tabs on new developments surrounding the splash pad portion of Eagle Soar getting back up and running.

Fun Fact: This is the first allabilities park in Temecula, and according to Temecula Community Development the playground exceeds the ADA requirements by offering unique design features to meet the physical, cognitive, and sensory needs of many different types of children in the community—including those with autism, sensory and cognitive issues, physical, and learning disabilities.

Best for: Water play, sensory exploration, and all-ages, allabilities fun.

Long Canyon Creek Park

(featuring a new skate plaza less than a year old)

This quietly tucked neighborhood park just down the street from the Promenade mall just got a major upgrade recently with the opening of a brand-new streetstyle skate plaza in 2024. The con-

crete plaza includes rails, banks, ledges, a vert ramp, and pyramid boxes—which has quickly created another skate-friendly social hub for enthusiasts within the city of Temecula. On top of that, a beautiful asphalt pump track is positioned right next to it. Combine those two attractions with a large grass field perfect for flag football or a great game of tag, a two-section kids playground, and a concrete walking / jogging path and you have yourself a worldclass standard for park recreation all for $0.

Fun Fact: Bring your own protective gear as there’s no on-site loaner station.

Best for: Scooters, skateboards, rollerblades, and kids of all ages looking for a positive, active outlet.

Ronald Reagan Sports Park

Ronald Reagan Sports Park is home to some of Temecula’s major athletic fields, the Temecula Skate Park, a newly developed asphalt pump track and plenty of public-use space for family events. Whether it’s youth soccer on the weekend or BMX after school, it’s a test piece property as far as family-friendly parks go in the city of Temecula.

The Temecula Skate Park housed within the grounds of Ronald Reagan has been a mainstay in the community for decades. Last year it was announced that renovations would occur and that the city of Temecula was in the process of finalizing next steps.

In an Instagram post by Concrete Disciples, the design concept that was approved by the city was shared. Council Member Zak Schwank was quoted, “Coming soon!! Check out the final design of the new Temecula Skate Park.”

In the post by Concrete Disciples, the page admin captioned, “This [park design] is going to replace the existing park! Councilman says he thinks construction will begin by Dec this year [2024].”

Fast forward to December 23, 2024, the City of Temecula released an official statement regarding progress, “While the original Temecula Skate Park is undergoing a full renovation, we’re keeping the good times rolling! A brand-new Skate Plaza was opened at Long Canyon Creek Park just a few weeks ago.”

While no major headway to the actual concrete portion of TSK has been done as of writing this the original design is still accessible and being used while renovation is underway. TSK is open daily from 8am-8pm and until sunset on Sundays. Safety gear is required so make sure you bring your helmet, elbow pads, and knee pads, per the posted rules Best policy of all? It’s free to use and still accessible as of right now.

Fun Fact: President Ronald Reagan personally praised the volunteerism behind this park’s creation in a 1983 speech. The community-led effort helped inspire the park’s patriotic renaming of this local landmark.

Best for: Organized sports, skating, and full-day park visits for active families.

Winchester Creek Park

This neighborhood park is a bit more low-key than the others, but it offers clean restrooms, 2 playgrounds that offer plenty of room for children to enjoy, even in a park that has a smaller footprint like Winchester Creek’s, a fenced basketball court, and perhaps the gem of this location

— a beautiful sand-filled volleyball court. The gentle inclines of the rolling hills that make up the walking path make for a great pathway if you’re looking to get a

Harveston Lake Park.

Valley News/Andrew Almazan photos

Long Canyon Creek Park.

Ronald Reagan Sports Park.

Park.

Murrieta Hot Springs Road widening project to start in the coming weeks

MURRIETA – A long-awaited infrastructure project will widen the roadway from four lanes to six lanes between Margarita Road and Winchester Road (SR-79). This expansion aims to alleviate congestion, improve traffic flow, and enhance pedestrian safety.

“Murrieta residents have been asking for a safer and less congested Murrieta Hot Springs Road from Margarita to Winchester,”

noted Mayor Cindy Warren. “This widening project will do just that but will take up to nine months to complete. That is why we are asking residents and visitors to pack their patience and, when possible, find an alternative route during this much-needed capital improvement project.”

Rove Engineering, Inc. has been awarded the $15 million contract to carry out the project.

Menifee updates residents on street projects

Menifee has project and construction updates to share with the community. For a current list of all street projects and construction updates, visit our interactive mobile and web map at www. cityofmenifee.us/traffic Valley Boulevard and Cherry Hills Boulevard – Conclave and KB Homes Development Project Conclave and KB Homes Development will have intermittent traffic control on Valley Boulevard and Cherry Hills Boulevard for underground utility work through

OFFICE from page A-1

property tax experience through improved efficiency and modern accommodations.

Guests enjoyed light refreshments and the opportunity to meet members of the TreasurerTax Collector’s team during the community-focused celebration.

The new office is located at 40810 County Center Dr., Suite 110, in Temecula.

The County Treasurer-Tax Collector is responsible for the billing

the end of August 2025. Briggs Road and Holland Road – D.R. Horton and KB Homes Development Project

D.R. Horton and KB Homes continue working on street improvements on Briggs Road and Holland Road for the Nautical Cove and South Shore development. Traffic control will be in place, and motorists should anticipate delays in the area during construction. Submitted by the City of Menifee.

and collection of property taxes, and, for the receiving, processing, investing and most importantly, safeguarding of public funds, as mandated by the laws of the state of California. The combined office is led by Matthew Jennings, a countywide, publicly elected official serving the fourth largest county in California by landmass and by population. Established May 9, 1893, the county encompasses 7,303 square miles, 28 cities, and a population of nearly 2.4 million.

This will include the installation of a new traffic signal, sidewalks, bike lanes, streetlights, and other essential infrastructure improvements to enhance safety and accessibility for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists alike.

The estimated duration of the project is approximately nine months, with work being conducted from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. Work is expected to commence in the coming weeks.

For regular updates about the

Traffic circulation on Murrieta Hot Springs Road will be impacted, with travel lanes expected to be reduced to one lane in each direction during nighttime operations, and three lanes during daytime operations (two westbound lanes and one eastbound lane). However, no full street closures are anticipated for this project.

project and anticipated upcoming traffic impacts, like lane closures, motorists who regularly use Murrieta Hot Springs Road and businesses in the area, are encouraged to subscribe to receive notifications, visit www.MurrietaCa.gov/ NotifyMe.

In addition, residents can visit www.MurrietaCA.gov/MHSR for more details on this project.

Lake Elsinore City Council accepts Country Club Heights property donation

Joe Naiman Special to Valley News

The City of Lake Elsinore received an offer to donate an undeveloped parcel in the Country Club Heights area to the city, and on July 8 the Lake Elsinore City Council approved the donation.

The city council’s 5-0 vote authorized the city manager to execute a donation agreement, joint escrow instructions, and other necessary documents to complete the real property transaction. The parcel is approximately 0.14 acres and is off of Channing Way between Franklin Street/Avenue 6 and Bancroft Way.

Los Angeles resident Michelle Hernandez owned the property but had no interest in maintaining the parcel or developing the land.

DENVER from page A-1

his wife, Linda, as Mrs. Claus— Denver brought both joy and leadership to Menifee.

The city asks residents to keep Linda and the Denver family in their thoughts during this difficult time.

She contacted the city’s Economic Development Department about donating the property to the city.

Real property transactions are discussed in closed session, and the closed session portion of the June 10 Lake Elsinore City Council meeting considered the donation offer. The City Attorney’s office was asked to prepare the documents to process the real property donation transaction. The land has R-1 Single-Family Residential District zoning which is intended to accommodate lowdensity projects comprised of quality single-family residences developed in an urban environment with available public services and infrastructure. The permissible uses for R-1 land, which are evaluated in terms of design characteristics and

specific site location, are singlefamily detached dwelling units with one dwelling unit per lot, accessory uses and structures, large and small family day care and residential care facilities, public utility distribution and transmission facilities (excluding private radio, television, and paging antennas and towers), government buildings and service facilities, and public parks and/or playgrounds. (For lots of at least one acre community centers and recreation buildings, schools, and places of religious assembly or institution are also permitted.) The parcel donated to the city may be suitable for future residential development including as an affordable housing site. Joe Naiman can be reached at jnaiman@reedermedia.com.

ENTERTAINMENT

‘Shrek

the Musical’ brings swampsized heart to the stage in Murrieta

Andrew Almazan

Special to Valley News

There’s something magical and heartwarming happening in Murrieta this August. “Shrek the Musical” is stepping onto the stage for a limited three-day run thanks to the Christian Theater Arts Project (CTAP). Audiences of all ages will be treated to a spectacular, familyfilled theatrical experience.

Valley News held an exclusive interview with some of the production’s heavy hitters, including Shrek himself who will be played by Danny Lybeck, a theater veteran with over a decade of experience teaching children and young adults the craft. Danny shared the roots of his love for the arts, “I really fell in love with being a story teller and also bringing characters to life. I was raised in a theater household and me and my dad used to do impersonations back and forth. I loved throwing my voice around and I loved the idea of personifying someone else who was completely different than me.”

The curtain rises at Murrieta Mesa High School on August 8, 9, and 10, where the show will be brought to life by a mix of seasoned performers, rising young talent, and for many—loving parents sharing the stage with their kids for the very first time.

Director Jeff Fazakerley expressed his appreciation for the unique value that the family production provides attendees, “You have this endearing quality, with parents as an example, supporting their children on stage and being a part of the production, mixed with the sheer talent caliber of our performers, it’s seriously unreal how amazing it is to see it all come together.”

Swamp lessons & heartfelt themes

Choosing Shrek for this year’s family production was influenced by several factors according to Artistic Director Nick Alexander, including what project was sure to draw a crowd while also touting themes that were in line with CTAP’s values as a theater company.

“It’s about inclusion, identity, and family,” said Nick. “That’s exactly what we’re about at CTAP. We’re not just a theater company. We’re a family. And this show celebrates that.”

Director Jeff adds, “The people on this stage aren’t here for a paycheck—but for the joy, the purpose, and the love that comes from doing something meaningful together.”

Underneath the green ogre and quirky fairy-tale creatures lies a story that hits home for many.

“There’s an incredibly moving song at the end of Act One called Who I’d Be,” said Danny. “Shrek

dreams of being something more than what the world sees him as. It explores this idea that ambition dies in silence, and that is so powerful. We want people to walk away believing they can go for it. That they deserve to try.”

Behind the curtain

CTAP’s process started back on June 1st—the literal day after school let out for many families. From then until the August 10th closing night, “The Summer of Shrek” has been a whirlwind of late-night rehearsals, community bonding, and preparation to offer surrounding communities something truly inspiring to be a part of.

Don’t miss out

Whether you’re a fan of the classic animated film, a lover of live performance, or simply looking for a night of laughter, joyful tears, and high-quality entertainment—CTAP’s Shrek the Musical is a must-see.

Bring the whole family. Bring your friends. Come celebrate the layers of life, learning, and pursuit of dreams alongside Shrek, Fiona, Donkey, and the rest of the CTAP family.

“You’ll be laughing. You’ll be crying. It’s a fantastic show and it’s worth every penny,” Jeff, Nick, and Danny confidently assured as we wrapped up our interview.

Tickets for “Shrek the Musical” are available at www.theaterartsproject.org . With only four performances over one weekend, seats are expected to sell quickly.

Performance dates and times are as follows: Friday August 8: 7 p.m.

Saturday August 9: 1 p.m.

Saturday August 9: 6 p.m.

Sunday August 10: 3:30 p.m.

Soboba Summer Bash is fun in the sun for everyone

with a cash prize. It didn’t take long for all the ducks to disappear from their hiding places.

As summer winds down and students start thinking about heading back to school, Soboba Parks and Recreation helped Tribal members celebrate with a party at the Sports Complex, July 18. From 4 to 7 p.m., activities kept everyone busy and well fed.

Tribal chef Anita Morillo and her team had the grill going full flame with hot dogs and hamburgers. Colorful plastic kiddie wading pools were filled with ice and trays of cut fresh fruit. There was plenty for everyone, and many returned for seconds. Children arrived at the event with towels, goggles, and swimsuits under their shorts and Tshirts. Water slide inflatables kept the kids cool on softball Field #1, while the pool and splash pad were open for those who wanted to cool off in other ways. Romell Mojado was happy to dip her feet into the pool as she sat at its edge.

Fourteen members of the Placencia family set up chairs and picnic blankets under the shade of trees near the splash pad so they could watch the younger ones play. They plan one more family vacation to the Lawrence Welk Resort, now known as Hyatt Vacation Club at The Welk, in Escondido, before the kids and grandkids head back to school in early August.

DJ Mike Nevarez kept the upbeat tunes spinning to add to the party atmosphere while also taking a break to announce the winners of various games and youth raffle prize winners. At least 100 backto-school items were available to win, from backpacks and insulated lunch boxes to mini treasure chests filled with crayons, colored pencils, and other practical goodies.

One of the first games was Duck Hunt. After being supplied with a bag, young explorers were told to scour the area for small plastic ducks. Whoever collected the most for each age group was rewarded

Lucky winners were Milo Arrietta, 0-5 years old, who found 62; Noot Medina, 6-8, who collected an astounding 106; Miguel Macias Jr., 9-11, found 43; and Ayashe in the 12-up category discovered 40. The horseshoe pit was set up next to the oversized tent that kept all the tables shaded for families to visit, eat, and regroup after each round of activities. The game was open to all ages, and individuals were able to try as many times as they wanted to during the allotted time. The three with the most points by 6:30 were declared the winners. They were Steve Medina, first place, Phil Basquez, second, and Anthony Valenzuela. third.

Nic Necochea, who has worked at Parks & Rec for about four years, said the entrants were playing against themselves rather than in teams playing against each other. Shannah Medina said she just plays horseshoes for fun at various events. Enrique Medina, 57, joined his granddaughter Rihanna Kashersky, 11, as they both pitched to be among the top scorers to take home some prize money.

Parks and Recreation Activities

Director Jennifer Devore Garcia said the department enjoys being able to provide some end-of-thesummer fun, which they have done for the past several years.

“It has really grown over the years; we only had about 100 people at the first one,” she said. “I love seeing the kids have so much fun and being able to provide the back-to-school giveaways.”

At 6 p.m., the Scavenger Hunt began and lasted about 20 minutes before the top three teams finished and won their share of cash prizes. The first-place team was Anaye Grant and Clover Swan, second place went to Kali Valenzuela and Jade, and Allen Silvas and Naanat Silvas worked together on the team that finished third. It was the perfect end to a fun-filled day.

Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians Special to Valley News

Cast members from the Christian Theater Arts Project rehearse for Shrek the Musical. Valley News/Courtesy photos

The CTAP crew has dedicated their entire summer rehearsing and perfecting their family-production of Shrek the Musical.

Cooling off in the pool was one of the attractions at the Soboba community’s 2025 Summer Bash, July 18.

A daring youngster stands under the pail of water that pours its contents over his head at the Splash Pad.

Valley News/Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians photos

Members of the Placencia family enjoy spending the day at the 2025 Summer Bash.

ENTERTAINMENT

Young artists celebrated by Hemet Valley Art Association

Diane A. Rhodes Contributor

After completing a Children’s Art Exploration Week at the Hemet Valley Art Association taught by Alison Wieman and her granddaughter Opal Larkin, participants had their artwork displayed at the downtown Hemet gallery during an open house on July 19. The event showcased HVAA Junior Members who were recognized as the featured artists of the month. Other artists of all ages were also on hand to interact with guests and the young members.

Wieman serves as HVAA vice president and chairperson of the annual Evening of Art program. Opal, 13, has been a Junior Member for about three years. They also teach a Saturday morning art class together twice a month.

“Alison is a former teacher who brought a new level of community involvement to the gallery,” HVAA President Lynn Throckmorton. “Alison and I are committed to mentoring all our junior members.”

Opal, whose mother teaches at the Idyllwild Arts Academy, is an award-winning artist who enjoys the medium of oil painting and the genre of portraiture. She was excited to offer a variety of projects to the participants in the weeklong art exploration program. Meeting for two hours a day, a wide range of projects were provided. Participants learned how to tie-dye t-shirts, do hand castings, make stuffed toys through needlework, create a collage journal cover, and make masks with collage and/ or acrylic paints, which was an overwhelming favorite.

“We want to give a big thank you to Kevin Robbins for donating the art kits to students in the class,” Wieman said.

Ely Garduno, 12, and Sarah Samara, 15, signed up for the class to have something to do during their summer break from school. They liked having a different project to do each day and said they would do it again because it was fun. Edwardo Guardino, 11, is a photographer who liked creating a cover for the personal journal the best. Milagros Garduno, 13, liked the freedom to express herself with each project and appreciated a new experience to learn.

“It was great to have Opal teaching because she could relate to the same perspective as us,” Milagros said.

The nonprofit organization offers classes and opportunities for all types of artists, and the event

attracted art lovers that enjoyed seeing the featured work of junior members and sharing their own displayed work with friends, families, fellow artists and the community.

“We are happy to see so many come to admire and appreciate the diverse talent these students are bringing to our art center and gallery,” Throckmorton said. “This is the future of our gallery as we support diversity in art and diversity in our membership.”

Eve Khattab is a fairly new member who has won first place in Mixed Media for several months for her amazing art beading creations. She is a self-taught artist who created the art form 20 years ago after doing a lot of cross stitch.

“I thought maybe I can do this with beads, using a screen as my canvas, wire as my needle and beads instead of thread,” she said.

“If I like something, I take a photo of it and print it out in black and white which shows the shading better.”

She keeps the photo in front of her as she works so she can get the colors the way she wants them to be. Growing up, Khattab showed her creativity in other ways like experimenting with her hair and makeup as a teenager. Working at a small family business, she was able to continue devoting time to her art beading. Now 75, she was pleased to find the Hemet Valley Art Association to be able to share her art with others.

“If you don’t explore, you can’t expose your work for others to see,” Khattab said, adding that her family is proud of her.

Stephen Packard creates unique relief acrylic pieces. He said he has always been interested in the

space between sculpture and painting, so he came up with a way to bring them together. An HVAA member since November, his first entry earned him a Best in Show award. He also enjoys woven paper making and would like to teach a class in it at the gallery someday. The retired art educator worked at Temecula Preparatory School in French Valley for 20 years and says he appreciates all the Hemet Valley Art Association does for its members.

“I like the availability of a place to hang my work because I want people to see it and I can change out my work anytime I want,” Packard said. “I enjoy the friendliness of the people here. I felt welcome immediately.”

Madison Alcauter calls her varied and distinct collection of acrylics “self-portraits” and uses her art as a way to make what she’s confused about tangible. Getting her inspiration from music, she doesn’t use any reference pieces to create her works.

“When a song is playing, I can see a facial expression and then I just play with the lights and shadows,” she said.

Madison, 23, has lived in Hemet for 10 years and learned about the HVAA through her work at the framing department of Hobby Lobby at the Hemet Valley Mall. She enjoys having a place to show her artwork because it makes her feel seen.

Darlene Woodcock is also a one-of-a-kind artist who creates “Framed Junk Jewelry” after seeing it done on social media. Before she starts to build a piece, she decides on a background color of velvet material which she lays the deconstructed jewelry pieces on to create a finished work of art.

Zallah Hobson joined HVAA about a year ago because she was looking for somewhere to display her art. She has always loved drawing and uses markers, colored pencils and graphite to produce some of her work but also creates digital fine art on her iPad, which has become her passion. She takes classes at the gallery and likes learning from other people. She is working on establishing monthly young artist meetups.

“I spend a lot of time drawing—it takes up the majority of my day,” said the 17-year-old who is headed to college in the fall where she plans to study art.

Her mother Nicola Hobson said, “I love her being able to show her work and share it with everyone.”

Throckmorton said the culture at the association is evolving with more inclusion and diversity than ever before. She said members have offered their various professional expertise in marketing and sales to help support the gallery. A recent undertaking has been an ongoing fundraising campaign started by Linda “Vivian” Baranek. Each month members meet to create something that fits the chosen theme whether it be hats, birdhouses or wind chimes.

“We supply the talent and supplies and people buy the finished pieces of art to support the gallery,” Throckmorton said.

Since 1963, HVAA has offered a welcoming environment for local artists who enjoy sharing their work, learning, and growing with the community. The Hemet Valley Art Association gallery, at 144 North Harvard Street in Hemet, hosts regular classes and workshops and is open to visitors Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, www. hemetvalleyart.com or 951-6524592.

The “First Steps” part of the title of the new “Fantastic Four” movie is misleading. We don’t see the superhero quartet take their first steps, not as changed individuals and not as a team. The movie takes place four years after a space anomaly altered the

Bob Garver Contributor

Some of the young artists who participated in an art exploration program show the masks and t-shirts they tie-dyed at the Hemet Valley Art Association gallery, July 19. Valley News/Diane A. Rhodes photos

Opal Larkin, who teaches art classes with her grandmother at the Hemet Valley Art Association, has been a junior member for three years and regularly features some of her work at the gallery.

Zallah Hobson is among the HVAA Junior Members featured at the gallery’s open house, July 19.

Stephen Packard enjoys sharing his unique artistic talents at the HVAA gallery during a recent open house.

Madison Alcauter shares several of her “self-portraits” at the HVAA open house in Hemet, July 19.

Valley News/Courtesy photo DNA of astronauts Reed “Mister Fantastic” Richards (Pedro Pascal), Ben “Thing” Grimm (Ebon Moss-Bachrach), Johnny “Human Torch” Storm (Joseph Quinn) and his sister, Sue “Invisible Woman” Storm (Vanessa Kirby). Fortunately, the alterations turned out to be mostly positive, and the team see MOVIE, page A-8

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

Aug. 2 – 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Splash Bash at Town Square Park & Amphitheater, 11 Town Square, Murrieta. For children ages 4-11. Vendors, games, music & familyfriendly fun. Admission is $1. Register at MurrietaCA.gov/Events.

Aug. 7 – 4:30-6 p.m. Beat The Heat Game Night at the Ronald H. Roberts Temecula Public Library, 30600 Pauba Rd. Teens from grades 7-12 can join us for an afternoon of fun games, snacks, and cool air. Rev up your competitive spirit without overheating. Registration begins Thursday, July 24.

Register at the library reception desk or call 951-693-8900.

Aug. 20 – 3:30-4:30 p.m. Board Game Social at the Ronald H. Roberts Temecula Public Library, 30600 Pauba Rd. Children 3 to 12 years old can make new friends and learn strategy while playing board games. Registration begins Wednesday, Aug. 13 at 3:30. Register at the library reception desk or call 951-693-8900.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

July 31 – 5 p.m. Murrieta Night at the Lake Elsinore Diamond Stadium. Enjoy expo booths hosted by Murrieta departments and local nonprofits, a ceremonial first pitch thrown by Murrieta Mayor Cindy Warren, and a great Lake Elsinore Storm baseball game. If you live, work or play in Murrieta, you are eligible for special discounted tickets at just $15 per person. For discounted tickets, visit https://www.gofevo.com/event/ CityofMurrietaNight?r=99.

mediate. $5 per lesson. Contact Joyce Hohenadl at 951-674-2159.

ONGOING – Sun City Civic Association Monthly Square Dance sessions are held on 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 of Aging at 800-510-2020 for help.

ONGOING – Saturdays and Sundays only, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The Temecula Winchester Swap Meet continues at 33280 Newport Road in Winchester. The small local swap meet is only 50 cents for entry, and anyone under the age of 10 has free admission. No dogs allowed.

in a free 3-day Certified Emergency Response Team training. Friday 5-9 p.m., Saturday & Sunday 8 a.m.-5 p.m. 20-hour course completed in one weekend at Murrieta Fire Station #1 Training Room, 41825 Juniper Street, Murrieta. Register at https://rivcoready.org/cert/registration.

ONGOING – Temecula Valley Genealogical Society hosts the Family History Research Assistance Program for those interested in learning more about their family roots. The society offers free research assistance through this volunteer program. Appointments are available in person or via Zoom. Contact the TVGS Family Research Coordinator at tvgs. research.assist@gmail.com

Park Clubhouse, 31130 S. General Kearny Road, in Temecula.

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.

JULIE REEDER,

Editorial

Advertising

Aug. 2 – 5-9 p.m. Live! @ the Plateau 2025 Sumer Concert and Art Show featuring Journey USA, a Journey tribute band. Enjoy their hits from the 70s and 80s while helping the Nature Education Foundation at the Santa Rosa Plateau. Located at the outdoor pavilion behind the Visitor Center at the Santa Rosa Ecological Reserve, 39400 Clinton Keith Rd., Murrieta. Tickets start at $45, must be purchased ahead of time. Visit www.the-nef.org for tickets and more information.

Aug. 5 – 5-8 p.m. Murrieta National Night Out at Town Square Park, located at 11 Town Square in Murrieta. Join the Murrieta Police Department at this free community event meant to strengthen the bond between law enforcement and the communities they serve. Attendees will have the chance to engage with the SWAT team and their cuttingedge equipment, the Traffic Team’s specialized resources, the Murrieta Police and Fire Command Post, Murrieta Police Explorers and volunteers, and the skilled police K-9s.

Aug. 14 – 6:05 p.m. American Legion Family Post 852 Night at the Lake Elsinore Storm, 500 Diamond Drive in Lake Elsinore. Gates open at 5:05 p.m., Game starts 6:05 p.m. Tickets $21.95, includes game ticket, free parking lot B, $5 food voucher, and a voucher for a future game. $5 of your ticket goes to ALA852. Tickets at www. gofevo.com/event/al25 Questions? Contact Althea aperrot@lestormbaseball.com.

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

ONGOING – Riverside Transportation Commission is offering Park and Ride lots to connect with carpools, vanpools, and transit systems in Beaumont at 600 E. Sixth Street; in San Jacinto at 501 S. San Jacinto Avenue and in Temecula at Grace Presbyterian Church, 31143 Nicolas Road, open from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. but not on weekends.

ONGOING – Line dancing classes are held on Wednesdays from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at Lake Elsinore/Wildomar Elks Lodge, 33700 Mission Trail, in Wildomar across from the Animal Friends of the Valleys. Classes have a DJ with learning levels beginning to inter-

ONGOING – 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Every Sunday, the 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 on 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 agricultural products only. Follow the Old Town Temecula Farmers Market on Facebook to stay updated. No pets allowed.

WORKSHOPS & MEETINGS

Aug. 9 – 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Riverside County Veterans Advisory Committee presents Serving Those Who Have Served: Townhall for Veterans, at the Temecula Conference Center, 41000 Main Street in Temecula. Perfect opportunity for veterans and their families to access critical resources and support. Topics include benefit assistance, housing support, family resources, disability services, and more.

Aug. 13 – 6-8 p.m. MilVet Military Care Packaging Event at Fairfield Inn, 30140 Town Center Drive, Menifee. Join MilVet to assemble military care packages for deployed troops overseas. RSVP required. www.milvet.org/ donate/p/August25 . A $25 suggested donation helps with shipping and includes refreshments, raffle tickets, and supplies. More info at info@milvet.org

Aug. 14 – 6-7:30 p.m. Wildfire Preparedness Seminar: Temecula’s Risk and Preparedness Activities for the Community at the Ronald H. Roberts Temecula Public Library, 30600 Pauba Rd. Learn how to create an emergency plan, build a survival kit, and protect your home from wildfire risk. No registration required. All ages welcome.

Aug. 22-24 – Murrieta CERT Training. Learn life-saving skills

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 with a permanent paver. The 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 community locations in the area. For drop-off locations and packaging locations, visit www.milvet.org/ military-care-packages.

ONGOING – Multiple Sclerosis Support Group meets on 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

from page A-7

uses their newfound gifts to better the planet of Earth-828.

The team certainly uses their powers for the greater good, but they don’t rely on them as much as you’d think. Richards is such an outstanding intellectual that he barely ever calls upon his ability to stretch. Sue uses her diplomatic talents to broker a peace deal that has nothing to do with her (admittedly poorly-defined) force-field powers. Johnny tries to prove his worth to the others by tackling problems without relying on his fire powers. Ben is more than happy to lend his rock-body to issues that require physical force, but he’s just as happy to live as normally as he can. The team is certainly good for fighting off the occasional supervillain, but they also motivate the inhabitants of Earth-828 to do good with their own lives so they don’t need to rely on superheroes.

Of course, sometimes the world needs the Fantastic Four at their most Fantastic. As couple Reed and Sue are preparing to welcome a baby, extraterrestrial being Shalla-Bal (Julia Garner), later known as the Silver Surfer, arrives on Earth-828. She’s there to herald the impending arrival of planet-eating giant Galactus (Ralph Ineson). Nice of her to give everyone a chance to say goodbye to their loved ones, though I don’t see why Galactus needs a herald to give away the element of surprise.

The Four won’t stand for their entire world to be eaten, so they go on a space mission to try to reason with the hungry humongoid. He’s willing to cut a deal: he’ll spare the planet in exchange for Reed and Sue’s baby, which may have an all-powerful combination of his parents’ powers. The team refuses to hand over the baby, of course, but that does leave them with the residual problem of Earth

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

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

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

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

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

ONGOING – The Dorland Scribblers meet on 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 writing-craft discussions; attendees may read up to a fiveminute excerpt from their work for feedback/critique. RSVP at www. dorlandartscolony.com/sundayscribblers.html.

being doomed. Can the Fantastic Four save their world from a villain the size of a skyscraper? Do the Marvel Cinematic Universe and its Disney overseers want to keep making money off of these characters?

Story-wise, there’s not much new here, other than maybe how little action there is for a superhero movie. There’s a chase scene midway through the movie, and a typical-of-the-MCU battle involving a big glow-y thing at the end, but other than that we see little more than quick bursts and highlights. The Four actually try to stop Galactus by calling upon help from civilians on a global scale. I seriously doubt that enough people on our Earth would be willing to chip in and make these sacrifices, but remember, this movie doesn’t take place on Earth, it takes place in a parallel universe on Earth-828.

The appeal of “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” doesn’t lie in the likeable-but-familiar heroes, it lies in the setting of Earth-828. The world looks like what people in the 1960’s thought the world would look like in 2025. Technology has advanced and there are things like flying cars, but style and decoration have retained what I would call a retro aesthetic. Yes, there’s even an agreeably-chirpy, charmingly-cumbersome robot servant in the team’s headquarters. It’s the most memorable MCU setting since Wakanda, and it might even have that one beat. I can see why the Fantastic Four want to work so hard to save this world. Earth-828 elevates this otherwisemiddling MCU entry into the best installment in years.

Grade: B

“The Fantastic Four: First Steps” is rated PG for action/violence and some language. Its running time is 115 minutes.

Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@ nyu.edu.

MOVIE

Accolades and achievements define Rancho Christian Eagles’ standout baseball season

JP Raineri Sports Editor

The Rancho Christian Eagles baseball team turned heads across Temecula and the Inland Valley this spring, charging through the season with energy and passion that brought them a league crown and a lasting place in local sports history. With an impressive 15-8 overall record and dominating 14-1 mark in league play, the Eagles combined clutch play, strong leadership and relentless teamwork to rise above their competition.

Guiding the team to its league title was head coach Allan Dykstra, whose background as a first-round MLB Draft pick and Tampa Bay Rays first baseman brought a high level of expertise to the program. Dykstra, known not only for his experience but for his commitment to teaching the game’s values, helped transform the Eagles into a focused, disciplined group that trusted each other both on and off the diamond. His steady leadership helped the players develop physically and mentally, keeping them composed during tight games and hungry for every win.

The Eagles’ climb to the top was built on the grit and contributions of a group determined to meet every challenge. Among them was junior shortstop Cylis Proffitt, whose stellar play led him to be named an All-CIF Southern Section standout. Proffitt’s leadership at the plate and in the field also earned him MVP honors for the Inland Valley League, a remarkable accomplishment that set a high bar for his teammates. On the mound, Cody Horner’s arm was effective all season long, as he captured the Most Valuable Pitcher award in the Inland Valley League and delivered in crucial spots for the Eagles.

Spencer Horner, Cody’s brother, along with Sean Downs and Kayson Kobayashi, were selected to the Inland Valley League’s First Team, each bringing intensity and skill that lifted the team in big moments. These players set the tone with their consistency and hustle, making plays that swung the momentum in Rancho Christian’s favor throughout the spring.

AJ Garza, Sean Kinard and Cooper Rivera earned Second Team honors for their outstanding seasons, delivering when called upon— whether as dependable fielders, timely hitters or strategic base runners. The importance of depth was on display all year, as every member was asked to step up and contribute

to the Eagles’ success.

The coaching staff also recognized the efforts of seniors Robert Vargas, Timothy Loza and Orrin Murphy, singling them out for honorable mention in the Inland Valley League. Their leadership in the dugout and their willingness to do the little things made the Eagles a rounded and unified team. Game after game, the stands at Rancho Christian filled with family, friends and local fans eager to see something special unfold. That support turned home games into mustsee events and gave the Eagles an extra push, especially in hard-fought league matchups that determined their fate atop the standings.

With the Inland Valley League title secure and a collection of individual awards in hand, the Eagles

proved what’s possible with the right mix of talent, coaching and support. Team members credited one another—and their fans—for making the spring season not just a winning campaign but a springboard for the program’s future.

Coach Dykstra’s influence set an example for returning players, “We wanted to show them what can be achieved when you play for each other and keep working on your craft,” he said. “Mission accomplished, and next season we look to continue the success.”

The season’s story wasn’t just about records or hardware. Although the Eagles were eliminated in the first round of the CIF Southern Section Division 5 playoffs, their accomplishments and teamwork made it a truly memorable year. It

cess and accolade info to sports@ reedermedia.com

Temecula FC makes history with first pro season — Owner Brandon Jantz talks stadium hopes, youth development, and local legacy

Andrew Almazan

Special to Valley News

TEMECULA — After more than a decade of grassroots development, establishing organizational infrastructure, and behind-the-scenes hustle, Temecula FC is preparing to take the field for its inaugural professional season in the National Independent Soccer Association (NISA), the third division of Pro U.S. Soccer. For club owner and former pro player Brandon Jantz, it was never just about soccer. “It’s been a wild ride,” said Jantz in an exclusive interview. “Every single day is absolutely nuts! There’s so much to the game here in this country that a lot of people might not realize.”

Jantz, who launched Temecula Football Club (FC) in 2013, has operated the club out of their headquarters tucked behind 6th Street in Old Town Temecula. Despite humble roots, the vision was always ambitious: to bring professional soccer to a city and a region that, until now, had never hosted a pro franchise.

No stadium, no problem

“Temecula doesn’t currently have a stadium that fits the minimum standards needed by U.S. Soccer to host a professional game,” Jantz explained. High school fields are too narrow, and there’s currently no designated space in town zoned for an experience like a sports venue with food, beer, and proper fan accommodations.

Still, he remains optimistic, and it’s one of the long-term visions Jantz has above and beyond the victory of stepping into the pro-tier for the upcoming season. “We’re not asking the city for handouts. What

School.

we need is to identify a property— the right property. From there, we can get a conditional use permit and then work to raise the capital by presenting the opportunity to our investors. Once that happens, we can build.”

Understanding the league structure

Temecula FC will compete in NISA, a Division III league in the U.S. Soccer system, alongside Major League Soccer (MLS) next and United Soccer League One (USL).

While the American soccer pyramid lacks promotion and regulatory unification, Jantz hopes increased attention from the upcoming 2026 season will be another step towards bringing more structure to the overall game in the United States.

“It’s all over the place right now, and that makes it hard for supporters to follow,” he said. “But change is coming.”

Local first: Tryouts, talent, and long-term goals

On August 5, the club will hold open tryouts. “The format is simple for the first day: let the players play and see what they’ve got,” Jantz said.

“From there, we’ll identify guys who have what it takes physically, mentally, and who are aligned with the values of the club and invite them into a six-week trial period,” said Jantz.

While Temecula FC plans to bring in a handful of experienced players from outside the region, the ultimate goal is to build the roster with local talent. “Ideally, we’d use all local kids. Long-term, that’s the plan—grow our youth pipeline that creates opportunities for our own youth to elevate to the pro team.”

Milestones ahead

Jantz encourages the community to watch for major announcements in the coming months: Tryouts on August 5 Signing of players to the proteam roster

• Official uniform launch at 8 Bit Brewing Co. in September

“The best stories are going to be about the local players we sign.

That’s what people are going to rally around,” said Jantz. He continued, “If you can’t make it out to a game but you can make it to one of our events, our pro uniform launch at 8 Bit Brewing is the one to be at.

They’re one of our main sponsors, and the establishment is great for the whole family.”

As Temecula FC prepares to make history as Riverside County’s first professional soccer club, Jantz remains focused on the long game: a sustainable, community-rooted club that brings pride and opportunity to the region.

“We want to represent our community well. It’s not about chasing millions, we want to build something that lasts.”

The Rancho Christian Eagles team had a successful 2025 season.

Valley News/Courtesy photos

Cylis Proffitt earned Inland Valley League MVP, and All-CIF after a standout season.

Rancho Christian’s First Team Inland Valley League players.

The Second Team Inland Valley League players from Rancho Christian.

Honorable mention players Robert Vargas, Timothy Loza, and Orrin Murphy. was about young athletes growing together, facing challenges and discovering what it means to represent their school and city with pride. As the Rancho Christian Eagles look ahead, the memories and lessons

from this spring will stay with them as they continue to make Temecula proud. Please submit high school suc-

On the current roster is Noah Mabra, who played soccer at Chaparral High

Valley News/Temecula FC photos

The Quail Army has shown up in full force for Temecula FC since 2013. Now, Riverside County’s first-ever professional soccer team is set to take the big stage. Pro tryouts begin August 5.

Forward Joshua Pinones played at West Valley High School in Hemet, where he graduated in 2021.

Orel Hershiser’s One-of-One card bounty offers local collectors a chance of a lifetime

JP Raineri Sports Editor

MURRIETA – Orel Hershiser’s search for his rare one-of-one

Topps Chrome signed Superfractor is creating excitement among collectors in Southwest Riverside County. Hershiser played for the Los Angeles Dodgers, Cleveland Indians, San Francisco Giants, and New York Mets, notably winning the 1988 Cy Young Award and leading the Dodgers to a World Series title that same year. He also earned World Series MVP honors in 1988 and ALCS MVP honors in 1995.

For anyone passionate about baseball cards and local history, this is a unique opportunity to turn a rare card into an unforgettable Dodgers experience with one of the game’s greatest pitchers.

Topps produced a single Su -

perfractor card autographed by Hershiser during spring training on March 12, 2025, making it a highly desirable item for Dodgers fans and card enthusiasts. Hershiser, known for his love of collecting and trading, is personally invested in locating this one-of-a-kind card and returning it to his permanent collection.

“Bounties have become a big thing within the card collector hobby,” says Johnny Rizo, of Rizo Sports in Murrieta. “Especially with 1/1 cards. We saw a similar bounty with the Paul Skenes Rookie Debut Patch from last year’s Topps Chrome baseball release.”

Hershiser hasn’t just issued a call to collectors across the country; he set a substantial reward for the person who brings him the card. Before handing the card over, the owner will get a trip for two to Los Angeles, flights and hotel accom-

modations at the Doubletree in Claremont, a framed and signed Dodgers jersey, a visit to Legends’ Attic collectible store, a day at Dodger Stadium, and a visit to the Spectrum TV broadcast booth. The winner will also get the chance to meet Hershiser and see the card find its forever home at Legends’ Attic, where sports fans gather to admire memorabilia and share stories of the Dodgers’ glory years.

Legends’ Attic, which recently celebrated its first anniversary in Claremont, is packed with vintage cards, memorabilia and awards from Hershiser’s own career. It’s considered a destination for sports fans seeking rare finds and a bit of baseball nostalgia. Not only does the shop host special guests and local legends, including Hershiser, who owns the shop, but it also inspires visitors to dig deeper into their own collections, hoping to turn a piece of their past into a piece of Dodgers history.

But while the search is national, the answer might be closer than you think. The Southwest Riverside County area is home to several respected card shops where collectors may stumble upon the rare Superfractor

“Going back to last year’s bounty people were buying out all of the Topps Chrome boxes we had just to hunt for the Skenes Debut Patch, so it’s going to definitely be similar with this Orel Hershiser Bounty,”

exclaimed Rizo.

In Murrieta, Rizo Sports, located at 40165 Murrieta Hot Springs Road, Suite B, offers a wide range of trading cards and collectibles, drawing collectors from across the region. With a friendly staff and an ever-changing assortment, Rizo Sports can be reached at 951319-6788.

A grinning Johny Rizo also stated, “Maybe we put our own bounty out if someone hits it here, but either way, we are ready and stocked with all the latest 2025 Topps Chrome products needed for the chase.”

Over in Temecula, Honey Hole Collectables, found in Vail Headquarters at 32123 Temecula Parkway Suite C, is also a favorite for residents looking for sports cards, collectibles and memorabilia. You can call them at 951-401-2019 for details about their current inventory and recent arrivals.

And, just south in Fallbrook, Semper Fi Sports Cards and Memorabilia is another excellent resource. The shop is well known for its impressive assortment of sports memorabilia and cards. Area collectors frequently visit in search of rare treasures or to trade with fellow enthusiasts. To learn about what’s in stock, call Semper Fi Sports Cards at 760-723-2332.

The excitement in the region is building. Collectors, both casual and devoted, are encouraged to

search through their personal collections and pay a visit to these local shops. The one-of-one Hershiser Superfractor could be sitting in a newly acquired box just waiting for its true value to be revealed. For one lucky collector, discovering it could lead to an experience unlike any other.

If you believe you have the card or need more information on how to participate in the bounty, get in contact with any of the local shops. Hershiser and his team would also like you to reach out if you have any questions. The team at Legends’ Attic stands ready to help and can be contacted through the store’s website at www.legendsattic.com or by phone at 909-929-8353.

The world of baseball cards offers more than the thrill of collecting. It helps connect fans, preserve memories and spark new adventures. Hershiser’s quest is not just about owning a rare card, but about inviting fans—especially those in Southwest Riverside County—on a journey through baseball history.

Whether you’re already sorting through your own collection or just setting out to browse at Rizo Sports and TCG, Honey Hole Collectables, or Semper Fi Sports Cards and Memorabilia, the opportunity to participate in Hershiser’s bounty is one Southwest Riverside County collectors shouldn’t miss. Send local sports tips and info to sports@reedermedia.com.

French Valley Pony 8U Machine Pitch All-Stars crowned Pinto Navy Region Champions

JP Raineri Sports Editor

FRENCH VALLEY – The French Valley Pony 8U Machine Pitch All Stars recently clinched the Pinto Navy Region championship, adding a second banner to the team’s growing legacy. Throughout five games over their victorious weekend, the boys held opponents to just nine total runs while racking up an impressive 49 runs at the plate. Their defense stayed tight, hustling for key outs, while their bats stayed hot from the first pitch to the last. This performance continues a strong tradition for the French Valley Baseball & Softball Association. All Star teams from the region have a history of advanc-

ing past district tournaments and earning top placements at sectional and regional levels. Notable age groups like Pinto Machine Pitch, Mustang and Shetland have seen rosters filled with local athletes go deep into tournament play, collecting top-three finishes at events such as the Moreno Valley Warm Up and Fallbrook, and regularly progressing to regional competition. A more complete record of past All Star teams, rosters and standout moments can be found on the association’s website, although the historical page is currently under construction. For the players and coaches, earning a second championship banner was a moment of pure excitement. Their recent run also took them to the prestigious Pony

World Series in Moreno Valley this past weekend, but results from that appearance have not yet been released. There is no doubt the team’s hard work and spirit was on full display. More information and updates about the team’s journey will be available soon at www. fvbsa.com.

Congratulations to the French Valley Pony 8U Machine Pitch All Stars for their achievement and the positive energy they bring to local baseball. The entire community looks forward to following what’s next for this talented group.

Athletes and families in Southwest Riverside County are encouraged to share their own All-Star stories with Sports Editor JP Raineri by emailing sports@ reedermedia.com.

Dodger great, Orel Hershiser, holds up the rare Topps Chrome Superfractor that he signed before it went to Topps for distribution. Valley News/Courtesy photo

The staff at Rizo Sports in Murrieta showcase 2025 Topps Chrome products that could contain the Hershiser bounty card. Pictured (L to R) are Isiah Porter, Danny DeSantis, Johnny Rizo, and Patrick Mandac. Valley News/JP Raineri photo

Orel Hershiser, nicknamed “Bulldog”, was a Major League Baseball pitcher known for his strong performance and composure under pressure. Valley News/Wiki courtesy photo

The rare Topps Chrome Superfractor signed by Hershiser is the focus of the bounty. Valley News/Courtesy photo

French Valley Pony 8U Machine Pitch All Stars celebrate with their region championship banner after a weekend of stellar defense and hot bats. Valley News/Courtesy photo

CHP urges drivers to take action during National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

July is National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month, and the California Highway Patrol has been reminding drivers to take simple, effective steps to protect their vehicles. California saw a drop in vehicle thefts in 2024, the first year-over-year decrease since 2019.

“We are proud to see fewer vehicles being stolen across the state,” said Commissioner Sean Duryee. “The CHP and our law enforcement partners are working hard every day to stop these crimes, protect California’s communities and hold criminals responsible.”

In 2024, thieves stole 176,230 vehicles in California, down from nearly 203,000 in 2023 - a decrease of more than 13 percent. Of all the vehicles stolen statewide, nearly 85 percent were successfully recovered.

Saturating key areas

With the support of Governor Gavin Newsom, the CHP expanded its efforts to fight vehicle theft through crime suppression operations in Oakland, Bakersfield and San Bernardino. These ongoing regional operations have shown positive results throughout the communities in Alameda, Kern and San Bernardino counties. Working closely with local law enforcement agencies, auto thieves, repeat offenders and organized crime groups have been disrupted and their activities have been thwarted. As a result of these public safety collaborations, each of these counties saw a significant drop in vehicle thefts in 2024:

• Alameda County: down 18% from 2023 (19,212 thefts)

• Kern County: down 28% from 2023 (6,210 thefts)

• San Bernardino County: down 11% from 2023 (10,116 thefts)

Automobiles are a vital part of daily life for work, school and family. When a vehicle is stolen, it impacts more than just property - it can take away a person’s freedom and sense of security.

Keeping your vehicle safe

Vehicle theft can happen anywhere and to anyone. The CHP encourages drivers to follow these safety tips to help protect their cars:

• Hide or remove valuables from your car

CHP off ers guidance on reporting reckless drivers

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

Reckless drivers can be reported to the California Highway Patrol by calling 911, 800-835-5247 or entering the offending vehicle’s information on their website. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo

make all the difference.

If a driver is currently posing a threat to public safety, CHP urges witnesses to call 911 immediately and provide as much detail as possible. When reporting, CHP recommends motorists provide their name, location and a clear description of the incident. This includes the vehicle’s make, model, color, license plate, the number of occupants and any injuries if known. Direction of travel and approximate speed are also helpful.

If the incident already occurred and is no longer an immediate threat, drivers should instead use the agency’s non-emergency line800-TELL-CHP (800-835-5247),

a 24-hour hotline staffed by trained dispatchers.

Citizens can also report concerns directly to their local CHP Area Office. These offices can be located by visiting www.chp. ca.gov and entering a city name or ZIP code. Local offices are staffed with officers who are familiar with the area and they’re a great resource for follow-up questions or ongoing traffic complaints. CHP emphasizes that public participation can play a key role in reducing dangerous driving behavior. It’s not just about reporting - it’s about community safety. Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia. com.

Statewide vehicle thefts drop for the first time in five years; CHP encourages continued vigilance. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo

ANZA’S UPCOMING EVENTS

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. Please also email us if any of these listings have new or updated information. Thank you!

Regular Happenings

Anza Farmers’ Market

– Located at 56333 SR 371, Anza farmers’ market hours are every Thursday from 4 to 8 p.m. through October. Various farmers, musicians, artisans and food vendors set up weekly. Ample parking in the field and lot to the west and east of the field. The market is operated by the High Country Conservancy, a 501(c)(3), and is a California

JULIE

MALINA GUGEL,

Editorial

J.P. RAINERI, Sports Editor

SHANE GIBSON, Staff Photographer

DIANE SIEKER, Staff Writer

JOE NAIMAN, Ind. Contractor

ROGER BODDAERT, Ind. Contractor

Advertising Sales

JOSEPHINE MACKENZIE

ANNA MULLEN

CINDY DAVIS

ANDREW REEDER

Production

KARINA YOUNG, Art Director

FOREST RHODES, Production Assistant, IT

SAMANTHA GORMAN, Graphic Artist

certified farmers market. Market Manager Annika Knoppel can be reached at 951-234-1314 or email anzafarmersmarket@gmail.com

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 SR 371 in Anza. See membership information under “Organizations.”

Mobile Food Pantry – Anza Electric Cooperative and F.I.N.D. Food Bank offers a free mobile food pantry the second Saturday of every month at the AEC office, 58470 SR 371, from 8 to 10 a.m. All are welcome. Cal-Fresh application assistance and free community health services are also available. Bring your own reusable bags to take food home. Volunteers welcome. For more information, contact the AEC office at 951-763-4333.

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

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

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

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

Health, exercise, resources and recovery meetings Fit after 50 – 10:30-11:30 a.m.

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

Veterans’ Gathering Mondays – 9-11 a.m. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 39075 Contreras Road in Anza. Men and women veterans come to share and help each other deal with post-traumatic stress disorder and other difficulties. Call John Sheehan at 951-923-6153. If you need an advocate to help with VA benefits, call Ronnie Imel at 951659-9884.

The Most Excellent Way – A Christ-centered recovery program for all kinds of addiction meets once a week on Fridays from 6-8 p.m. Program is court approved. The group meets at Valley Gospel Chapel, located at 43275 Chapman Road, Anza. AA Men’s Meeting – 7 p.m.

Meetings take place Thursdays at 39551 Kirby Road in Anza, south of SR 371.

Alcoholics Anonymous – 8 p.m. Wednesday and Friday evenings at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 56095 Pena Road in Anza. For more information, please email Barbara at chicasita55@gmail.com

Bereaved Parents of the USA – The Aguanga-Anza Chapter of BPUSA will hold its meetings at 6 p.m. on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month at 49109 Lakeshore Blvd. in Aguanga. For more information, contact chapter leader Linda Hardee at 951-5512826.

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

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

Narcotics Anonymous Tuesday meetings, 8 p.m. at Shepherd of the Valley Church, Anza, 56095 Pena Road, Anza. For more information, please email Barbara at chicasita55@ gmail.com

Women’s Alcoholics Anonymous –Thursdays at 12 noon. Meetings at Shepherd of the Valley Church, 56095 Pena Road in Anza. For more information, please email Barbara at chicasita55@gmail.com

Food ministries

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

Bible studies

Living Hope Thursday Men’s Breakfast and Bible Study – 8 a.m. at 58050 SR 371 in Anza. All are welcome.

Living Hope Christian Fellowship Sunday Service – 10 a.m. at the Anza Community Hall, 56630 SR-371 in Anza.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Anza’s Sunday Sacrament is at 10 a.m.; Sunday School is 11 a.m. Priesthood/Relief Society meets at noon; Wednesday, Boy Scouts gathers 6 p.m. and Youth Night is 7 p.m. For more information, call Ruiz at 951-445-7180 or Nathan at 760-399-0727. The Wednesday Genealogy/Family History Class, 5-8 p.m., is open to the public at 39075 Contreras Road in Anza. Native Lighthouse Fellowship – 10 a.m. The group meets the first Saturday of the month, and breakfast is served. All are welcome to fellowship together at the “Tribal Hall” below the casino in Anza. For more information,

call Nella Heredia at 951-7630856.

Monthly Christian Men’s Breakfast – 9 a.m. Breakfast takes place the 4th 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 Baptist Church - Begin your week with Sunday School for adults at 9 a.m. followed by Sunday morning worship at 10:30 a.m. We have an optional Children’s Church service during the main service. On Sunday nights from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. we have a rotating schedule of Bible Studies, fellowship, and prayer. We also have a prayer circle which meets on Wednesday mornings at 11 a.m. 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, just off Burnt Valley Road, in Anza. For more information, please contact the church at 951-763-4937 or visit https://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 – 4 p.m. Meetings are on the third Tuesday of the month, except February, at Anza Community Hall. 4-H Club is for youth 5 to 19 years old offering a variety of projects. High Country 4-H Club is open to children living in the Anza, Aguanga and surrounding areas. For more information, call Allison Renck at 951-663-5452.

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

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

Anza Valley Lions Club – The Anza Valley Lions Club has been

In memoriam

Deborah “Deb” Jacqueline Wangstad passed away peacefully on July 4, 2025, at the age of 66 in her home in Anza, California. She was born July 4, 1959, in Hennepin County, Minnesota,

A gifted artist, Debbie had an incredible talent for painting. Her love of nature was reflected in much of her work, capturing the beauty of the world around her with vibrant colors and emotion. She adored animals and shared her life with many furry companions

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

Fire Explorer Program – 6 p.m. The program meets every second, third and fourth Tuesday of the month at Fire Station 29 on SR 371 in Anza. Call 951-7635611 for information.

Anza Thimble Club – The club meets the 1st Thursday of the month at the Anza Community Hall, 43275 Chapman Road in Anza. The social hour is 11:30 a.m., and lunch is served at noon. Contact Carol Wright at 951-7632884 for more information.

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

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 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 SR 371 in Anza. For more information, call 951-282-4267 or email achageneral@gmail.com or visit www.anzacommunitybuilding. org

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

over the years. Her love for music was impeccable, and Debbie’s Love, Hope and Faith in the Lord absolutely Inspirational. She brought warmth and energy wherever she went.

Her kindness, creativity, and laugh left an impact on everyone who knew her. Debbie will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who were blessed to cross her path.

Deb is survived by her son JanMichel Wangstad of Bemidji, MN

and four grandchildren: Jaiden, Ariah, Brytin, and Kiana Wangstad all of Bagley, MN.

A celebration of Debbie’s life will be Sunday, August 10, 2025 at 4 p.m. at the Anza First Southern Baptist Church in Anza. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks for donations to help cover funeral costs and to bring her home to Minnesota. https:// gofund.me/13d74ccf

ANZA VALLEY OUTLOOK

ANZA LOCAL

Car power inverters: turn your vehicle into an emergency backup generator

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

In the event of an extended power outage, a car power inverter - also known as a vehicle inverter generator - can let drivers power household-style AC devices using their vehicle’s 12 - volt battery. These devices convert direct current (DC) from the battery into standard alternating current (AC) for appliances and electronics .

How they work Lower - wattage inverters (typically up to ~150 W) plug into the vehicle’s cigarette lighter or accessory port, whereas mid-to-high-wattage units (500 W and above) usually connect directly to the battery with clamps or hardwiring. Internally, an inverter flips the DC output into AC via oscillation circuitry - producing either modified or pure sine wave output, with the latter preferred for sensitive electronics. Sine wave is the fundamental waveform used in most power systems and many other electronic applications.

Some EVs, such as the Ford Lightning pick up truck, are wired to power a household from the factory.

What you can power

Typical uses range from charging phones, laptops, fans and lighting with smaller inverters (150 - 500 W), to running small refrigerators, TVs or power tools with medium-capacity units (500 - 1,500 W). Larger units (2,000 W or more) can run heavier loads but demand proper vehicle electrical infrastructure and possible design and installation by a qualified technician.

Price overview

Verified pricing generally aligns with:

Your car or truck can power appliances in your home in the event of a power outage.

Low-power units (150 - 500 W): around $20 - $100

Medium-power (500 - 1,500 W): approximately $100 - $300

High - power (2,000 W+): between $300 and over $1,000

Specialized vehicle inverter systems, such as those built for RVs or integrated into electric vehicles - range up to $2,000.

Key considerations before buying

Wattage: Add up appliance wattages and include a 10 - 20%

Sheriff’s Blotter

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

The Anza Valley Outlook

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

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

All calls listed are for service within the Sheriff’s Department jurisdiction in the unincorporated areas of Anza, Lake Riverside Estates, Cahuilla and Aguanga from July 20 through July 26. July 20

Public disturbance - 4100 block Terwilliger Rd., Anza

Suspicious vehicle - 5600 block St. Hwy. 371, Anza

Public disturbance - 3900 block Boulder Dr./Ayers Wy., Anza, arrest made

Public disturbance - 5400 block

Boulton Rd., Anza Noise complaint - address undefined, Anza

Unknown trouble - 4300 block

Cowboy Country Rd., Anza

Public disturbance - 4300 block Cowboy Country Rd., Anza

Miscellaneous criminal - 5100 block Kearsarge Rd., Anza

July 21

Civil dispute - 5200 block

Browns Rocky Rd., Anza

Public disturbance - 5200 block

Browns Rocky Rd., Anza

Suspicious circumstance - 4400 block Tule Valley Rd., Anza, report taken

Public disturbance - 5300 block

St. Hwy. 371, Anza

July 22

Unknown trouble - 5500 block

Mitchell Rd., Anza

Public disturbance - 5200 block

Browns Rocky Rd., Anza

Public disturbance - 5200 block

Browns Rocky Rd., Anza

Suspicious circumstance - 5200

block Browns Rocky Rd., Anza

July 23

Shots fired - 5900 block Everett Rd, Anza

Check the welfare - 4000 block

Lakeshore Bl., Lake Riverside

Suspicious person - 5900 block

Rim Rock Rd., Anza

Vandalism - 5300 block St. Hwy. 371, Anza, report

5100 block

margin for surge loads; choose an inverter with suitable continuous and peak ratings.

Power Output Type: Pure sine wave is cleaner and safer for sensitive devices; modified sine wave units cost less but may cause issues with some electronics.

Safety Features: Look for built - i n overload protection, short-circuit safeguards, and low battery shutdown to protect vehicle systems and devices.

Battery Limits: Running an

inverter with the engine off can drain the vehicle battery quickly; heavier loads may require the engine running or auxiliary batteries/alternator upgrades.

Why it matters

Car inverters offer portable, cost-effective and quiet alternatives to traditional gas generators, especially in residential, camping or emergency - p ower scenarios, without the emissions or noise

. However, understanding the limits of your vehicle’s battery

and wiring is essential to safe, effective use.

For households considering backup power options or people prepping for power interruptions, car inverters provide a flexible, accessible option beyond conventional generators - if used with care and proper planning.

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

Springs Trl., Anza Hazard - address undefined, Anza

Check the welfare - 5300 block

St. Hwy. 371, Anza

Suspicious circumstance - 3900

block Boulder Dr., Anza

Suspicious circumstanceaddress undefined, Anza

Suspicious circumstance - 3900 block Boulder Dr., Anza

Public disturbance - 5900 block Rim Rock Rd., Anza

July 24

Harrassing phone calls - address withheld, Anza

Check the welfare - 5700 block

Running Springs Rd., Anza

Public assist - 3800 block Hill

St., Anza Public disturbance - address undefined, Anza

Suspect info - address withheld, Anza

criminal activity is occurring in

July 25

Public disturbance - 5200 block Browns Rocky Rd., Anza

Public assist - 5400 block Cave Rock Rd., Anza

July 26

Public disturbance - 5600 block Cahuilla Rd., Anza

No assumption of criminal guilt or affiliation should be drawn from the content provided in the Sheriff’s Blotter. Residents with information regarding any crimes are encouraged to contact the Hemet Sheriff’s Station at 951-791-3400. Criminal activity can also be reported through the We-Tip Crime Reporting Hotline, 909-987-5005 or https://wetip.com. Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia. com

Anza Valley Outlook can run your legal announcements. For more information, call 760-723-7319 or email legals@reedermedia.com

Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo

The Sheriff’s Blotter enables residents to know what

their communities. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo

When public and private life collide: A timeline of the Andy Byron and Kristin Cabot controversy, 2 experts offer insights

Andrew Almazan

Special to Valley News

The story of Andy Byron, exCEO of Astronomer, and Kristin Cabot, ex-Chief Human Resources Officer, has unfolded publicly through mid-July. The events, first captured at a Coldplay concert, ignited a viral media firestorm. What began as a seemingly innocent kiss cam moment (a regular element of American entertainment and sporting events alike) has since evolved into a case study at the intersection of corporate image, emotional fallout, and public perception.

Timeline of events

July 16 – During a Coldplay concert in Massachusetts, the concert’s Jumbotron panned over to Byron and Cabot in an intimate embrace. While the act itself isn’t illegal, the public affection between two high-ranking executives — both of whom are currently married — raised immediate eyebrows.

July 18 — By Friday of the same week Astronomer announced that Andy Byron had been placed on leave. In articles circulating across the internet, it was confirmed that Andy Byron had also tendered his resignation, which the Board of Directors at Astronomer had accepted. Pete DeJoy, Co-Founder and Chief Product Officer, is appointed as interim CEO.

July 24 — News began to surface on Thursday that CHRO Kristin Cabot had resigned.

Why this happens, and what it means Jodi Silbermann, founder of From We to Me, a divorce support and legal coaching consultancy based in Southern California, says these types of stories are far more common than most people think.

“It happens all the time,” Silbermann said in an interview with Valley News. “People are at

work more than they are at home. They form bonds, and lines get crossed — especially in highpressure environments. No one wants to talk about it until it’s exposed.”

She continued, “The fact that California is a no-fault divorce state means public infidelity has little bearing on legal outcomes unless financial misconduct is involved. There’s no legal ramification for the emotional aspect of an affair unless community funds were misused or the affair puts children or dependents in harm’s way,” she said. “We all can agree that, emotionally, the fallout is enormous. But the court doesn’t account for that.”

The inner factors of executive affairs

We also spoke with a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) also based out of Southern California, who has counseled couples and families across the region. Due to the national attention of the story, they wanted to remain anonymous, but they did offer some professional insight into the matter.

“It’s not just the work environment drawing people together,” they said. “It’s often about what’s lacking inside the relationship or within themselves that they’re stepping out of — that could be intimacy, connection, or support. The workplace can sometimes become a safe space to meet unmet needs.”

When asked what prompts executives to risk it all, the LMFT emphasized internal conditions over external temptations:

“Usually, people aren’t pulled outward — they’re pushed from the inside,” they said.

He encourages readers not to villainize those involved but to instead reflect on their own relationships.

“If this story is triggering

As of the publishing of this article, both Andy Byron (ex-CEO) and Kristin Cabot (ex-CHRO) have resigned from their respective roles. A look at Astronomer’s leadership section on their website confirms the updates as well. Co-founder and Chief Product Officer, Pete DeJoy, has stepped in as interim-CEO.

Valley News/Screenshot from Astronomer.io something in you, it might be time to reflect,” they said.

“What emotional needs are being neglected — and can they be addressed before damage is done?”

A culture of curiosity or consequence?

Experts agree: the public may be too eager to reduce such complex stories to clickbait narratives.

“They’re trying to villainize the situation,” Silbermann added.

“Are these people flawed? Sure. But they’re also human. The court of public opinion rarely accounts for that nuance.”

Still, in the corporate world, perceptions do matter. Especially when the individuals at the center of the story control culture, brand identity, and HR policies for thousands of employees.

The saga of Andy Byron and Kristin Cabot has transitioned from TMZ fodder to a real HR and ethical case study. While the internet will inevitably move on, the conversations sparked — about workplace intimacy, boundaries, and the emotional terrain people must navigate who are going through the same or similar situations — are likely to echo far longer than any concert video.

Lake Elsinore City Council approves Spring Street sidewalk design contract

Joe Naiman Special to Valley News

The state’s Transportation Development Act includes a Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities Program which is funded through one-quarter of 1% of the state-level sales tax. The Riverside County Transportation Commission administers TDA funding in Riverside County, and 2% of the county’s Local Transportation Fund revenue

THEFT from page B-1

• Lock your doors and roll up all windows

• Park in well-lit, visible areas

• Use anti-theft tools like steering wheel locks or alarms

• Install a GPS tracker or recovery system

• Always turn off your car and take your keys. Never leave it running unattended. Using more than one safety step is best. Each layer adds more protection against theft.

The CHP provides the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security to everyone in California.

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

is made available each year for use on bicycle and pedestrian facility projects. The funding is available to local agencies to cover engineering expenses, right-ofway acquisition, and construction costs for bicycle and pedestrian facilities.

On June 11 the City of Lake Elsinore was notified that proposed sidewalk improvements along Spring Street between Limited Street and Lakeshore Drive were selected for TDA funding.

On July 8 the Lake Elsinore City Council approved a design contract with Dost Engineering for the pedestrian improvements. The contract is for $80,100, and the city council also authorized the city manager to execute up to $8,010 of change orders administratively.

Dost Engineering, which is based in Temecula, will develop final plans, specifications, and an engineer’s estimate of the construction costs. Guida, Inc., whose headquarters office is in

Irvine, will be a subconsultant and will provide topographic and utility surveying services. The survey base and utility mapping will be incorporated into the design which will include layout for sidewalks, curb ramps meeting Americans with Disabilities Act standards, driveway tie-ins, and areas requiring retaining wall removal. If any trees must be removed that will also be addressed, as will slope grading. Any grading transitions will be

coordinated with the adjacent private properties.

The survey and utility research is expected to be completed in late August. The final design is scheduled to be finished in late November.

The city is required to provide at least a 50% local match for the TDA grant.

Joe Naiman can be reached at jnaiman@reedermedia.com

City to replace iron fencing at Lake Elsinore Diamond

Stadium

Joe Naiman Special to Valley News

The City of Lake Elsinore approved a contract to replace the iron fencing at Lake Elsinore Diamond Stadium.

On July 8 the Lake Elsinore City Council members voted 5-0 to approve a contract with Hemet Fence Corporation, which is actually in Homeland, for the

The Southern California Corvette Club (SCCC) would like to invite Corvette car owners to our monthly lunch runs. We are looking for new members all the time.

Text (619) 665-3999 for more information or email magerkurths@yahoo.com

removal and replacement work.

The contract which will also include a new windscreen is for $45,000, and the city council also authorized a $4,500 contingency amount which will allow for change orders in the event of unanticipated circumstances.

Lake Elsinore Diamond Stadium was originally called The Diamond at Lake Elsinore. The Lake Elsinore Storm had been the Palm Springs Angels prior to moving to the team’s current ballpark in 1994. City staff has observed that the fencing near the maintenance area has been damaged due to corrosion. That damage has resulted in breaks in the posts along with rust. The fencing replacement project will address that situation, which will improve both safety and appearance.

The work will remove and replace 45 iron panels. The new panels will include a widescreen designed to match the existing windscreen on the inside of the fence. Hemet Fence will be paid $24,000 to remove and replace the iron fencing and $21,000 for the new windscreen.

Joe Naiman can be reached at jnaiman@reedermedia.com

Mercury-based Thimerosal out from U.S. vaccines

HHS Adopts ACIP Recommendation to Remove Thimerosal from All U.S. Influenza Vaccines

On Tuesday, July 22, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. signed a commitment to remove the mercury-based preservative, thimerosal, from all influenza vaccines distributed in the United States.

This followed a recommendation by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and a 5-1-1 vote at the ACIP’s June 25-26 meeting at CDC headquarters in Atlanta. The committee members voted that all children 18 years and younger, pregnant women, and adults receive only single-dose influenza vaccines free of mercury

“After more than two decades of delay, this action fulfills a longoverdue promise to protect our most vulnerable populations from unnecessary mercury exposure,” Kennedy said in a statement.

He continued, “Injecting any amount of mercury into children when safe, mercuryfree alternatives exist defies common sense and public health responsibility. Today, we put safety first.”

With Kennedy’s signature, the recommendation becomes federal health policy, fulfilling the HHS Secretary’s commitment to restore trust with Americans by removing risk and still sustaining access to vaccines.

Before he was elected to lead HHS, Kennedy edited the 2014 book, “Thimerosal: Let the Science Speak,” which emphasized how evidence proved that mercury,

Breaking

Minorities

Evita

Limon Rocha,

psychiatrist Kaiser Permanente Riverside County

Each July, National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month recognizes the importance of mental health and encourages open conversations about its challenges. July served as a reminder that mental well-being must be prioritized among minority populations, and everyone should feel they can seek support when needed.

Yet, for many in minority communities, seeking help can feel like navigating a minefield of stigma, misinformation, and fear. Cultural expectations, systemic barriers, and historical mistrust of health care systems often compound the challenges.

Among others, there are three common myths that continue to harm mental health awareness and access in minority populations.

Myth 1: Getting a mental health diagnosis means being labeled forever.

The Truth: A diagnosis is not a life sentence — it’s a tool for healing.

Many people in minority communities fear that a mental health diagnosis will define them permanently, especially in ethnic groups where mental illness is seen as a weakness or moral failing.

But in reality, a diagnosis is a starting point for understanding what’s going on and how to get better. It’s no different than being diagnosed with diabetes or high blood pressure — it helps guide treatment and support.

A diagnosis doesn’t define who you are — it helps us understand how to support your healing. Just like learning you have a cold or an infection, a mental health diagnosis creates a path towards treatment and recovery.

Myth 2: A mental health diagnosis will follow you with negative consequences.

The Truth: Confidentiality laws protect your privacy, and treatment can improve your quality of life.

Concerns about job loss, discrimination or being seen as “unstable” are real fears, especially in communities where trust in

a Neurotoxin, must be removed from all vaccines.

Efforts to remove mercury from childhood vaccines began in 1999.

HHS’s action on Tuesday marks the final step to remove mercury from all vaccines given to Americans.

An HHS press release, issued Wednesday, in part reads, “Secretary Kennedy’s newlyappointed ACIP members broke with long-standing inaction by voting to remove mercury entirely from all influenza vaccines, fulfilling the 1999 pledge and aligning U.S. policy with that of Europe, which phased out mercury additives years ago.”

The release further states:

“Vaccine manufacturers have confirmed they have the capacity to replace multi-dose vials containing mercury, ensuring the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program and adult vaccine supplies will remain uninterrupted.

The ACIP, composed of leading medical and public health experts, advises the CDC on vaccine safety, efficacy, and clinical necessity.

This historic decision marks a critical step toward enhancing public confidence in vaccines and advancing the nation’s commitment to safer immunization practices.

Secretary Kennedy added, “With the U.S. now removing mercury from all vaccines, we urge global health authorities to follow this prudent example for the protection of children worldwide.”

Submitted by The MAHA Report

HHS, FDA and USDA address the health risks of ultra-processed foods

WASHINGTON, DC – Under the leadership of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke L. Rollins, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and U.S. Department of Agriculture are accelerating federal efforts to address the growing concerns around ultra-processed foods and the current epidemic of dietrelated chronic disease that is plaguing America. The agencies are announcing a joint Request for Information (RFI) to gather information and data to help establish a federally recognized uniform definition for ultraprocessed foods—a critical step in providing increased transparency to consumers about the foods they eat.

“Ultra-processed foods are driving our chronic disease epidemic,” said HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. “We must act boldly to eliminate the root causes of chronic illness and improve the health of our food supply. Defining ultra-processed foods with a clear, uniform standard will empower us even more to Make America Healthy Again.” Currently, there is no single authoritative definition for ultraprocessed foods for the U.S. food supply. Creating a uniform federal definition will serve as a key deliverable on the heels of the recently published Make Our Children Healthy Again Assessment, which recognizes that the overconsumption of ultraprocessed foods is one of the driving factors of the childhood chronic disease crisis.

“President Trump has made it a priority to improve health outcomes for American families and communities. And this Request for Information is yet another step in seeking commonsense ways to foster improved and more informed consumer choice. A unified, widely understood definition for ultra-processed foods is long overdue, and I look forward to continued partnership

with Secretary Kennedy to Make America Healthy Again. As this process unfolds, I will make certain the great men and women of the agriculture value chain are part of the conversation,” said U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins.

“I am delighted to lead this critical effort at the FDA,” said FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, M.D., M.P.H. “The threats posed to our health by foods often considered ultra-processed are clear and convincing, making it imperative that we work in lockstep with our federal partners to advance, for the first time ever, a uniform definition of ultraprocessed foods.”

It is estimated that approximately 70% of packaged products in the U.S. food supply are foods often considered ultra-processed, and that children get over 60% of their calories from such foods. Dozens of scientific studies have found links between the consumption of foods often considered ultraprocessed with numerous adverse health outcomes, including cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, cancer, obesity, and

neurological disorders. Helping to address overconsumption of ultraprocessed foods is a key element to Make America Healthy Again. A uniform definition of ultraprocessed foods will allow for consistency in research and policy to pave the way for addressing health concerns associated with the consumption of ultra-processed foods. The RFI will be publicly available in the Federal Register on July 24 and seeks information on what factors and criteria should be included in a definition of ultraprocessed foods.

Alongside developing a uniform definition, the FDA and National Institutes of Health are investing in high-quality research to help answer remaining questions about the health impacts of ultra-processed foods through its recently announced Nutrition Regulatory Science Program. The Department will also continue to pursue developing and implementing other key policies and programs that seek to, collectively, dramatically reduce chronic disease and help ensure a healthy future for our nation.

institutions is low. However, mental health records in the United States are protected by strict privacy laws like HIPAA, which means your information cannot be shared without your consent.

Moreover, untreated mental health issues are far more likely to interfere with work, relationships, and daily functioning than a diagnosis itself. Seeking help can lead to better coping skills, improved productivity, and stronger relationships.

Myth 3: Physical health is more important than mental health.

The Truth: Mental and physical health are deeply connected — and equally important.

Sometimes, among different cultures, physical symptoms are taken seriously, while emotional or psychological distress is minimized or ignored. But mental health affects everything from sleep and appetite to heart health and immune function. Chronic stress and depression can lead to serious physical health problems if left untreated.

Mental health is not separate from physical health — it’s the foundation of it.

Moving forward: What can we do?

Talk about it. Normalize conversations about mental health in your family, community and workplace.

Educate yourself and others. Learn about mental health conditions and share accurate information. You can start at kp.org/ mentalhealth for information and tools.

Seek culturally competent care. Look for therapists and providers who understand your background and values.

Support each other. Encourage loved ones to seek help and be a source of non-judgmental support to them.

Mental health is not a weakness, label, or burden — it’s a part of being human. By breaking these myths, we can build stronger, healthier communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and be well.

Submitted by Kaiser Permanente Riverside County.

Valley News/Polina Tankilevitch photo (pexels.com)

Rose Care FUNdamentals for August 2025

Frank Brines

ARS Master Rosarian

Summer is certainly upon us!

Experience tells us that it’s only going to get hotter before it gets cooler. (I don’t need to tell you that at the beginning of August, do I?)

Since high summer temperatures and less-than-ideal conditions for roses are inevitable for the next couple of months, let’s get ready!

Stroll through your gardens in the a.m., look for leaf wilt, drying or discoloring of leaves, and the general leaf reflectance (surface luster). If it appears dull, investigate the plant for disease, drought, or pests.

Like most living things, your roses are continually perspiring, although in their case we call it “transpiring.” This draws water from the roots into the leaves, helping them keep cool.

When temperatures are in the 90º range, insufficient moisture in the root zone results in browning of the leaves, usually starting at the leaf margins, sometimes on their convex surfaces. This heat stress also limits bloom size, fades color, and crinkles petals.

This is why in summer, a rose can need as much as 12 gallons of water per week just to survive. That’s why I strongly recommend letting your roses rest and go into a faux dormancy until about mid-September. (You don’t really

want to be out there sweating and suffering either, do you??)

For now, just remove and discard the withered petals and let the hips develop, keep the bed clean of debris, and don’t fertilize. You may also remove the lower 8” to 10” of leaves to discourage spider mites (more about that later). Be sure your irrigation system is in good condition and delivers the necessary water.

If foliage becomes sunburned, you can remove some of it, but don’t remove so much that the cane becomes exposed to the sun and gets sunburned – that can kill the whole plant.

Above are a couple of pictures that I took in my garden on a summer morning. I now live in an area that isn’t quite as warm as the Temecula Valley, so I’m sure you’ve seen something like this in your garden with the recent temperature records. The heat has also stunted the size of the blossom and faded its color.

The Saw Fly is active now. It is usually a minor character, but can create havoc if left alone and becomes prolific. On new growth, it can kill the new vegetation. It’s also called the “cane borer” because (not surprisingly) it bores into a cane and lays eggs. Below is one such hole in my own garden – this happened today! Note the sawdust on the cane!

Chilli Thrips are a year-round

pest, but they love hot summer days best. They are almost microscopic, measuring 0.016 - 0.024 inches long, one-fourth the size of the Western Flower Thrip. You’ll know Chilli Thrips are present only when new foliage, buds, and blooms come out deformed, distorted, and discolored with a “bronze” tint.

Chilli Thrips love all new foliage and bloom colors, unlike Western Flower Thrips which prefer light colors. It’s astounding the amount of damage they can do in a very short time. Control is easiest in the earliest stages since a severe infestation can rapidly defoliate a rose bush and your other plants, too.

cycle, you must act at once: cut out damaged buds, blooms, and leaves, and remove fallen leaves and petals from the garden, and put them in your trash bin. Wash your hands and clean your pruner. A natural hero in the fight is the minute pirate bug, which feasts on all stages of this pest, as well as on spider mites, insect eggs, aphids, and small caterpillars. You can buy them on the internet! If mechanical and biological control fail, and you must move on to chemicals, choose the least toxic spray and follow label directions. During infestation, spray all new growth weekly. Conserve or

Captain Jack’s Deadbug Brew concentrate are two organic sprays with the active ingredient Spinosad. Spinosad will not harm ladybugs, green lacewings, pirate bugs or predatory mites. Spray early in the morning or in the evening after bees are less likely to be active and before temperatures reach the 80ºs.

During your daily tour of your garden, examine lower leaves for signs of another hot-weather pest, the spider mite. Lower leaves will be yellow or brown, with fine webbing and/or a dirty appearance. They’re found on the undersides of those leaves. Make a quick check by lightly running your fingers across the underside of the leaf. If it has a small, grainy feel, it is likely the spider mites.

A strong spray of water from below, followed by an overhead shower, should take care of the problem or, at least, hold it in check. Give the shower early in the day so the plant has time to dry before the sun becomes hot. Do this every 3 days for 10-14 days and inspect daily.

It may be necessary to repeat after a few days if the infestation is heavy. Captain Jack’s Deadbug Brew is a good product to use in this case. As I said earlier, removing the bottom leaves approximately 8” to 10” from the soil level can help to reduce (or even prevent) a spider mite infestation.

The world is dangerous enough for plants, but we gardeners face risks. One is a dangerous fungus with the scientific name Sporothrix schenckii. It afflicts humans with the fungus infection sporotrichosis, often called “Rose Thorn Disease.” This fungus lives on hay, sphagnum moss, the tips of rose thorns and in soil. It can cause infection, redness, swelling and open ulcers at the puncture site.

The fungus can also spread to the lymphatic system and move on to the joints and bones, where it ends up attacking the central nervous system and lungs, especially if the thorn is deeply embedded. An uncommon condition, diagnosis can be complicated. Physicians often mistake it a Staph or Strep infection.

Be sure to inform your physician that you are a gardener to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. I recommend that whenever you work with soils – especially native soils that develop in your garden – that you wear a face mask that can screen out potentially harmful particles; I favor an N95-rated mask (which we’re all familiar with from the Covid-19 pandemic). These are commonly available at big box stores and online. We all enjoy the fragrance and beauty of roses and have often had our skin pierced by thorns (“prickles” is the correct anatomical name). Good protective measures include wearing proper clothing (gloves, long sleeves, or gauntlets) when working among roses and thoroughly cleansing even minor scratches and punctures with an anti-bacterial soap. Apply rubbing alcohol (which you should already have handy to clean your pruners) as an immediate wash until you can use anti-bacterial soap. Be vigilant for any sign of infection in anything more than a minor puncture and seek medical attention as soon as possible if you show any of the signs described above. Even simple things in life have risks, so take precautions so you can stop and smell the roses. And when you’ve got a moment to spare, go visit Rose Haven, located at 30592 Jedediah Smith Road (the cross street is Cabrillo Avenue) in Temecula. Also, visit www. TemeculaValleyRoseSociety.org.

During hot weather, the life cycle for Chilli Thrips is 11 days. It spends part of that time in soil or debris under the plants. The larvae stage molts into a pupal stage and usually enters the soil or debris to eventually appear as adults. Only the larvae and adults are in the feeding stages. Adults disperse by wind over long distances.

Integrated pest management stresses the importance of cultural, mechanical, and biological controls before resorting to the least toxic chemical control. Since Chilli Thrips have a short life

Heat damaged roses. Valley News/Courtesy photos

Heat damaged bloom.

Cane borers, also known as saw flies, bore into a cane and lay eggs.

Chilli thrips can deform rose blooms.

Pirate bugs are beneficial to plants as they are predators of many common garden pests. If going with a chemical insect control, be sure it is safe for pirate bugs, ladybugs, green lacewings or predatory mites.

Green lacewings are beneficial to gardens because their larvae eat aphids, thrips, whiteflies, leafhoppers, spidermites, and mealybugs.

A deformed rosebud due to chilli thrip damage.

Foilage can also be affected to chilli thrips

HOME & GARDEN

Five must-have summer houseplants for your SoCal home

Andrew Almazan

Special to Valley News

Summer in Southwest Riverside County is hot, dry, and bursting with sunlight—which makes it a dream for houseplant lovers who know what to shop for. Whether you’re a seasoned plant collector or browsing the aisles of your favorite nursery, the options can be overwhelming.

If you’re looking for easycare, high-impact greenery that thrives indoors during the tripledigit season, we’ve narrowed it down to five houseplants that check the following boxes: beauty, resilience, and home design appeal. These picks won’t just survive our region’s summers with the proper care and placement—they’ll upstyle your space too.

ZZ Plant

The ZZ plant tolerates low light, dry air, and is resilient to those who might not be consistent with their watering schedule. It’s ideal for SoCal interiors year-round and thrives in corners, entryways, or bathrooms with low to moderate natural light. It features a slowgrowing upright pattern with thick stems and glossy dark green leaves. Water sparingly and let soil dry out fully between waterings.

Pet Considerations: The ZZ plant is toxic to pets if ingested, primarily due to the presence of calcium oxalates.

Home-Styling Tips: ZZ’s dark, sculptural form pops against neutral walls, minimalist interiors, and light-toned furniture. Consider a matte ceramic planter for contrast or go high-gloss for modern flair. Great for anchoring your boho or Scandinavian-inspired space.

Dracaena ‘Ray of Sunshine’

This vibrant plant otherwise known as the Madagascar Dragon Tree tolerates dry indoor air and thrives in filtered light. Ideal placement would be in bright corners in living rooms, home offices, or entryways. It features a prominent and upright canestyle growth pattern. The ray of sunshine variety features striped green and yellow leaves creating a vibrant addition to homes. Water when the top inch of soil is dry and be sure to avoid harsh sun to protect leaf color.

Pet Considerations: Dracaena are toxic to pets if ingested, primarily due to the presence of saponins.

Home-Styling Tips: The Ray of Sunshine variety is a showstopper and a must-have for those who appreciate upright tree-like structures over bushier growth patterns. Use it to brighten up moody spaces or add height to empty nooks. The brightness of the leaves contrasts beautifully with gold, rattan, and wood accents. It is perfect for tropical, modern, and mid-century spaces.

Money Tree

The Money Tree tolerates dry air, thrives in indirect light, and is highly regarded in Asian culture for symbolizing wealth and financial prosperity. Place near windows with bright, indirect light.

In its natural habitat a money tree can reach heights of 60 ft but in a houseplant setting, with proper care and cultivation they have the potential to reach 6-8 ft in height.

Pet Considerations: The ASPCA has labeled the money tree safe for pets. This includes a non- toxic rating for dogs, cats, and horses.

Home-Styling Tips: Depending on your desired vision for the Money Tree it can be a thoughtful accent on an end table or a statement piece in a large pot if maximizing growth is on your mind. Place in a pot with a bold base to draw the eye to the beautifully braided trunk. Its symmetrical growth adds balance to busy spaces or desk setups.

Rattlesnake Calathea

The Rattlesnake plant loves humidity and moderate light. Because of that it is perfect for SoCal bathrooms or shaded kitchens—areas of the home where you can capitalize on higher moisture levels. With that being said, ideal placement can be anywhere in your home where you are intentionally increasing moisture content, like near humidifiers. The uniquelypatterned rattlesnake plant boasts a bushy growth pattern, stays low to medium in height at about 1.5 to 2.5 ft in ideal indoor conditions. The highlight of this plant are its wavy green leaves with purple undersides. For watering regimen, keep soil lightly moist, mist often, and avoid drafts.

Pet Considerations: The ASPCA has labeled the rattlesnake plant (Calathea Lancifolia) safe for pets. This includes a non-toxic rating for dogs, cats, and horses.

Home-Styling Tips: The bold leaf patterns work well with eclectic, plant-filled interiors. Pair with soft pastels or jewel tones to accentuate the purple undersides. It looks great in hand-painted or terra-cotta pots to accentuate a creative and funky vibe.

Cebu Blue Pothos

This is a fast-growing, forgiving, and gorgeous trailing plant with the capability to climb if trained/supported. The Cebu blue pothos thrives in bright rooms with filtered light and is ideal for hanging baskets or accenting shelves. It showcases a fine trailing vine with narrow, shimmery bluegreen leaves. Water when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.

Pet Considerations: Cebu blue pothos is toxic to pets if ingested, primarily due to the presence of calcium oxalates.

Home-Styling Tips: The cooltoned foliage of this plant pairs well with minimal and modern spaces. Hang it in a white macrame holder or let it contrast against light stone work and concrete elements of your home. This is a great plant for breaking up your bookshelves or organization spaces by adding fun eye-catching details.

Water weekly in summer and avoid soggy soil. The unique braided trunk is highlighted by a lush, five-lobed leaf pattern that is iconic.

Southwest Riverside summers are no joke—but these options are sure to provide your indoor space with a breath of fresh air. Whether it’s a statement piece to anchor a corner, or a trailing plant to thoughtfully punctuate an organization-space, these five plants will not only thrive in your SoCal space with proper care, they’ll elevate it. Next time you’re plant-shopping around town, remember this article, and bring one (or all) five of these plants home!

Bradley Road to close Monday, August 4, for start of bridge construction

MENIFEE – Construction on the Bradley Road Bridge project over the Salt Creek Wash will begin Monday, August 4, with a full closure of Bradley Road between Pebble Beach Drive and Rio Vista Drive. The closure will remain in place for approximately 12 to 14 months while crews build a new 365-foot bridge over the Salt Creek Wash. The full road closure is necessary to safely construct the bridge within the project footprint that is flanked by homes on both ends and in an environmentally sensitive area.

The project will improve safety, ensure reliable access during storm events, and eliminate the need for motorists to drive through flowing water. The new bridge will include dedicated bicycle lanes and sidewalks and will allow emergency services to maintain response times in the area during a storm event.

Key construction-related activities include: Bradley Road will be fully closed to vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists between Pebble Beach Drive and just south of Rio Vista Drive. The Salt Creek Trail will remain open during construction, but a segment near Bradley Road will be temporarily detoured through the surrounding neighborhood. Please watch for detour notifications on the trail and check the project webpage and social media

Construction on the Bradley Road Bridge project over the Salt Creek Wash, seen here in a rendering, is beginning, with a full closure of Bradley Road in place for approximately 12 to 14

Valley News/Courtesy image channels for updates.

activities

Access to nearby neighborhoods and businesses will remain open. Drivers are encouraged to use alternate routes posted on the project map.

ZZ Plant.

Valley News/Andrew Almazan photos Dracaena ‘Ray of Sunshine.’

Money Tree.

Cebu Blue Pothos.

Rattlesnake Calthea.

OPINION

Tulsi Gabbard’s alarming allegation demands answers

Julie Reeder Publisher

Former Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, a veteran and former Democratic presidential candidate, Director of National Intelligence (DNI), has revealed what many Americans have long suspected but couldn’t prove until now.

Former President Barack Obama was not only aware of, but complicit in the use of U.S. intelligence agencies to target Donald Trump during the 2016 election and beyond. According to Gabbard, “There is irrefutable evidence that details how President Obama and his national security team directed the creation of an intelligence community assessment that they knew was false.” This isn’t just political dirty play—it strikes at the foundation of our democratic republic.

Among the declassified documents cited is a House Intelligence report dated Sept.

18, 2020, which concluded that multiple intelligence assessments suggesting Russian President Vladimir Putin supported Trump’s candidacy were “substandard.” There was no evidence. This supports Gabbard’s claim that the intelligence community was politicized from the top down.

None of this surprises me anymore.

I wasn’t shocked when the FBI altered evidence to frame Gen. Michael Flynn—a decorated patriot.

I wasn’t shocked when countless public servants like Flynn were financially ruined under the weight of drawn-out investigations, punished not by a conviction, but by the process itself.

I wasn’t shocked when the IRS was used by the Obama administration to target conservative groups.

I wasn’t shocked when the Biden administration worked with the teachers’ unions to target and punish parents that spoke up at school board meetings, or when people who were caught silently praying near abortion clinics were arrested.

Or when independent journalists like James O’Keefe were targeted by the FBI.

I wasn’t shocked to learn that the infamous letter—signed by 51 former intelligence officials claiming Hunter Biden’s laptop was a Russian plant— was fabricated. That letter, now

exposed as disinformation, was orchestrated by former CIA Deputy Director Michael Morell, following outreach from Biden campaign advisor Antony Blinken. The goal? Influence the 2020 election. Several of the signatories, we’ve since learned, were still under CIA contracts at the time.

And I certainly wasn’t surprised when the corporate media—CNN, CBS, NBC, NPR, PBS, the New York Times, and others—banded together to suppress any honest reporting on it.

Then came the unprecedented FBI raid on Trump’s Mar-aLago estate. While it was framed as another step in the ongoing investigations, I couldn’t help but wonder: was the real goal to find documents the Biden or Obama camps feared could implicate them?

Let’s be honest. If a sitting president truly manipulated federal intelligence agencies to interfere with a democratic election, or take down the president after he was duly elected, we’re not just talking about a political scandal—we’re looking at a constitutional crisisworse than Watergate.

This wasn’t just a few rogue agents going off-script. This was an administration using the intelligence community to go after a political rival. How can we criticize authoritarian regimes for the same behavior when we do it ourselves?

Then there is the complete incompetence of the agencies

who are supposed to protect the president from assassination. Is it repeated incompetence, or is it by design to finally do away with him?

Tulsi Gabbard’s credibility makes her accusation impossible to ignore. She’s a veteran who served her country with honor, has never hesitated to challenge her own party, and consistently speaks out against foreign entanglements and government overreach. Her words—especially on matters of national security—carry weight.

And she hasn’t been free from targeting herself. She was placed on the TSA’s “Quiet Skies” watchlist, a secret surveillance program that followed her on domestic flights, reportedly due to her criticism of Vice President Kamala Harris. This, combined with Hillary Clinton’s smear implying Gabbard was a Russian asset, shows a pattern: speak out, and you’re labeled, surveilled, or silenced.

To top it off, we’ve recently learned that Russian operatives allegedly had compromising material on Hillary Clinton, which they reportedly held in reserve in case she won—indicating their expectation, or hope, for a Clinton victory.

For years, any mention of a “deep state” was dismissed as conspiracy theory. But with each declassified document, each new revelation, and now Gabbard’s direct accusation, that claim is harder to ignore.

Hopefully adultery scandal will put an end to kiss cameras

Joe Naiman

Special to Valley News

I have no sympathy for somebody who cheats on his or her spouse and is caught. I do have an issue with the kiss camera, which is how two co-workers were caught with each other at a concert.

I once ended up on a kiss camera. I was at the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas and had second-row seats behind the bucking chutes. Brenda Binion, whose father founded Binion’s Horseshoe Casino in Downtown Las Vegas, was on my right. Nancy Cervi, whose husband was a stock contractor and whose daughterin-law was one of the top barrel racers at the time, was on my left. Whoever was in charge of the kiss

camera recognized either Brenda, me, or both of us, and turned the kiss camera on us. I had previously spoken with Brenda on the phone, but we had not met until that night, so she was reluctant to kiss someone she had just met.

A male and a female who are together at a concert or sporting event aren’t necessarily romantically involved with each other. I have attended concerts with my girlfriend. I have also attended concerts with a daughter. One time I invited a male friend, and when he was unable to attend, I took his wife instead. Ironically, that male friend was responsible for a fan camera photo of me in a situation I had been trying to avoid. During the coronavirus siege, I wore a Lucas

Oil gaiter mask I had been given. When I didn’t have to wear a mask, I put the gaiter mask around my neck. I was photographed a few times with the mask around my neck, but I avoided photos when the mask was covering my face. In 2021, my friend and I went to a Padres game, and we had to wear masks. During a fan camera session, my friend did a dance, and we both ended up on the stadium screen. If that photo still exists, it’s the only one of me with a mask covering my face.

Baseball games have breaks between innings, and rodeos have breaks between events. Concerts normally only have breaks when more than one band is performing.

A guitar, drum, or keyboard solo is traditionally used to give the singer

or other performers any breaks they need. The fan camera should not have been at a concert in the first place. If I was at a concert and was pictured on the kiss camera, I would sing a Kiss song. Singing a Kiss song at a concert other than a Kiss concert isn’t proper protocol. The performers, not the audience, are supposed to be the show. I once went to a Padres game with a female colleague who asked if I planned to get on the dance camera. I responded that I wasn’t being paid to be part of the show. When I am at a concert, I will focus on other fans if I’m trying to navigate an obstructed view, but my focus is on the band rather than on the audience.

It is ironic that those criticizing the co-workers caught on the kiss

If a sitting president weaponized the intelligence community against a rival campaign, that’s a betrayal of the public trust and a threat to every American’s civil liberties— regardless of political affiliation. The media and political establishment may try to dismiss this as political theater. But how can they, when so many of them were complicit?

Congress must act. The American people deserve transparency and accountability. No president—past or present— should be above the law.

If our intelligence agencies are being used as political weapons, we’re no longer functioning as a constitutional republic. We’re inching closer to becoming the very kind of regime we’ve always opposed.

It also raises another question: while many, including Trump supporters are calling for the release of the Epstein files, why the delay? Is it because the same corrupted agencies—those who buried the Hunter Biden laptop story and misled the public—have kept them in hiding and corrupted those files as well? If they’re willing to set up political enemies and shield their allies, why should we assume anything is being handled honestly?

We’re in an era where we must question everything—not because we’re cynical, but because too many of our leaders have proven themselves unworthy of blind trust.

camera are defending the sanctity of marriage, while I am complaining about kiss cameras discriminating against gay or lesbian fans. While there is a line between acceptance of homosexuals and forcing support of gay or lesbian lifestyles, acceptance of homosexuals at a sporting event or concert doesn’t require anybody to violate their own principles. The kiss camera assumes that everybody is heterosexual and thus contradicts the stated objectives of many sporting event or concert hosts. The two people caught cheating on their spouses at the concert do not deserve sympathy. However, the scandal will hopefully result in the elimination of kiss cameras at sporting events and concerts.

Girls forced to undress in front of boys unless a mental health exemption is filed -jeopardizing millions

The Temecula Valley Unified School District’s new parent notification policy has ignited public outrage. It is championed by Trustees Barham, Anderson, and the union leadership. It is opposed by Trustees Komrosky and Wiersma.

Trustee Emil Barham advised parents, “You can go to our website and get our mental health exemption for anyone feeling distressed changing in front of the opposite sex.”

At the July 22 Board meeting, as I spoke about this horrific parent notification policy, Barham kept smiling as I warned, “Shaming girls into filing a mental health exemption can jeopardize their security clearances and their careers for LIFE.”

(See CRT_Mom on Instagram)

Legal experts confirm mental health exemptions can disqualify students from careers in the military, aviation, first responders, special clearances and more, as already specified by White House eligibility.

A TVUSD parent asked online, “So let me get this straight—our kids are being told to fake a mental illness to protect their modesty?

This is beyond reckless.” Another parent shared, “This is why we pulled our daughter out. We never imagined we’d homeschool, but we’re done.”

California law allows students to self-select gender participation and seek accommodations like name or pronoun changes without parent notification under AB 1957. However, higher courts rule it violates federal laws, including

CLASSIFIEDS

Title IX, which overrides state laws and guarantees rights for girls and parents.

Barham justifies his mental health exemption as “following California law.”

It conflicts with our U.S. Constitution, and the president’s executive order reinforcing that schools can lose federal funding by violating students’ civil rights.

Trustees Komrosky and Wiersma estimate TVUSD can receive an estimated $18M –$28M in federal funds annually.

Public trust in TVUSD has eroded.

Board meetings have grown more disorderly and divisive than ever, marked by falsehoods and blatant censorship by President Anderson and Barham. Metal detector screenings are required to enter. On July 21, a woman wearing a white cap was removed after a profane rant targeting a dad who calmly expressed concerns at the podium. Union-aligned teachers and supporters mocked conservatives’ speeches, but TVUSD cameras avoided showing these Barham, Anderson, and Schwartz supporters.

One speaker said it resembled a “Jerry Springer show.”

Many voters whom Barham called “flying monkeys” after slandering a pillar of the community feel betrayed by Emil Barham and Melinda Anderson, including me.

Both drive radical ideologies they pledged to oppose.

Barham and Anderson have become union-controlled and should resign. Trustees Komrosky and Wiersma called Anderson’s leadership “a liability.” The new parent notification policy is more liability.

Chelsea Boyle speaking at the TVUSD Special Meeting on July 22, 2025, against forcing girls who don’t want to dress in front of biological boys to file a mental health exemption, which could disqualify them from future job opportunities. This screenshot is of the video that has received 1.2 million views on Libs of TikTok.

Families are pulling out. Teachers are saving thousands by leaving the union for better options like joining the Association of American Educators or Christian Educators that offer $2M in liability coverage for under $260/ year. What can you do? Share this piece far and wide.

Emil Barham smiling as Boyle is speaking against the mental health exemption that girls would have to file.

Inform parents, teachers, taxpayers, and voters. Reclaim your school district by voting and supporting leaders who prioritize safety, transparency, and commonsense academics. Push back against the teachers’ union leadership’s agenda for political and radical ideologies. Chelsea Boyle Parent & Child Advocate; Follow me on Instagram: CRT_Mom

Director

Courtesy photos

Lifting the bottom: A new look at inequality in Western economies

Daniel Waldenström

Summarized from his original essay in Human Progress

Waldenström is a professor of economics at the Research Institute of Industrial Economics and author of Richer and More Equal: A New History of Wealth in the West. Despite frequent headlines suggesting that inequality in the West is spiraling out of control, economist Daniel Waldenström argues that the full picture is far more balanced—and even optimistic. In his essay, Waldenström challenges the dominant narrative that the rich are getting richer while the rest stagnate. While concerns over housing costs, growing tech fortunes, and uneven access to services are real, he suggests

these perceptions often stem from incomplete or misleading data. To craft effective economic policy, he says, we must start with accurate facts.

The data behind the headlines

Much of the prevailing discussion on inequality is based on the work of economist Thomas Piketty, who described a “U-shaped” curve— inequality was high in the early 1900s, declined after the World Wars, and rose again from the 1980s onward. This narrative appears to match recent trends in billionaire wealth and stagnant wages for the middle class.

However, Waldenström notes that Piketty’s data largely omits key variables: taxation, public transfers, pensions, homeownership, and life-cycle changes in income.

Starting the analysis in 1980, for instance, ignores the fact that the era’s low inequality was largely the result of unusually high taxes and stifling regulation, not a sustainable benchmark.

Newer, more comprehensive data offer a very different perspective.

Economists Gerald Auten and David Splinter found that, once retirement savings, welfare transfers, and unreported income are included, U.S. income inequality has remained relatively stable since the 1960s. In Europe, the trend is even flatter.

Shared wealth, not rising disparity

According to Waldenström, the real story is not one of mass disparity, but of mass wealth

Private wealth in the West has surged since the 1950s, but this

growth has been broadly shared. Most wealth is now tied up in homes and pension accounts, not elite corporate stocks. Roughly 60–70% of households in Western countries are homeowners, and most workers have retirement funds linked to stock markets—evidence of what Waldenström calls “financial democratization.”

Wealth is also less concentrated than it used to be. In Europe, the top 1% now control only about onethird of the wealth share they held in 1910. In the U.S., while there was an increase starting in the 1970s, levels remain far below early 20th-century highs. In fact, wealth concentration in the U.S. has slightly declined since the mid-2010s.

Another critical factor is mobility. People often move in and out of

income brackets over their lifetimes. Social mobility, combined with pensions and public welfare programs, further narrows the real inequality gap. For instance, in Sweden, factoring in public pensions reduces measured wealth inequality by half. In the U.S., adding in Social Security and employer health coverage paints a much stronger picture for the middle class than income data alone would suggest.

Billionaires and broad-based growth

Critics often see billionaire wealth as a symptom of a rigged system. But Waldenström argues that many of these fortunes arise from innovations that benefit society. Tech companies, for example, have not only enriched founders but also created jobs, boosted productivity, and widened the tax base.

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Broader economic gains are evident: since 1980, life expectancy in developed nations has risen by six years, high school graduation has become nearly universal, and once-luxury goods like personal computers are now household staples. These gains reflect a system that, while imperfect, has significantly improved everyday life.

Economic growth also fuels public services. Every point added to GDP boosts government revenue, enabling better education, infrastructure, and healthcare. Thus, policies should aim not just to redistribute wealth, but to grow it—while ensuring everyone can participate.

Sensible tax policy and smarter solutions

Calls for new wealth taxes are gaining traction, with proposals being floated by the G-20 and the United Nations. But Waldenström warns that these policies are often misguided. Wealth taxes tend to target illiquid assets like private businesses or farms, forcing owners to borrow or sell to pay. Scandinavian countries experimented with wealth taxes and largely abandoned them due to low revenue, high administrative costs, and capital flight.

A more efficient alternative is to tax capital income—such as dividends, capital gains, and corporate profits—rather than wealth itself. This approach avoids penalizing ownership and supports productive investment.

Don’t misdiagnose the problem

Waldenström cautions against letting inequality become a scapegoat for other systemic issues: sluggish productivity, aging populations, and climate adaptation challenges. These pressing problems require capital, innovation, and a thriving private sector to solve.

Overreacting to inequality can also backfire. For instance, taxing housing wealth might hurt retirees who are asset-rich but cash-poor, and overburdening small businesses may force them into the hands of larger, more credit-accessible corporations. Additionally, exaggerating inequality risks fueling mistrust. When people are told the system is broken—even as their own standards of living rise—they may become vulnerable to populist rhetoric and policies that do more harm than good.

The path forward

Waldenström acknowledges that extreme wealth concentration can pose dangers to democracy. But the answer, he argues, is not to attack wealth, but to build inclusive systems that allow more people to thrive.

Governments should focus on: Encouraging entrepreneurship and reducing bureaucratic barriers

Keeping labor taxes low to incentivize work and saving

• Investing in education and infrastructure to empower individuals

• Expanding access to wealth-building tools like homeownership and pensions

Rather than obsessing over the fortunes of a few billionaires, Waldenström urges leaders to remember the progress of the many. The real success of Western economies is not their billionaires, but the millions of people now living with comforts their grandparents never dreamed of—like antibiotics, central heating, and college degrees.

Before declaring an inequality crisis, he says, policymakers should check the data—and stay focused on what works: growing opportunity, protecting markets, and lifting the bottom.

Waldenström is a professor of economics at the Research Institute of Industrial Economics and author of Richer and More Equal: A New History of Wealth in the West.

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