Father dies after kayak capsizes at Lake Perris; 7-year-old son survives
PERRIS — A 54-year-old man helped keep his 7-year-old son alive but was unable to save himself after their kayak capsized on Saturday, Dec. 6, at Lake Perris State Recreation Area (SRA).
Murrieta Valley students honored in November
Diane A. Rhodes Special to Valley News
The Murrieta/Wildomar Chamber of Commerce Student of the Month program held its most recent recognition breakfast at the Murrieta Valley USD Early Learning Center on Nov. 20. Emcee Mary Walters welcomed everyone to the breakfast and explained that the program, founded by Sally Myers of BMW Management/Sizzler restaurants, celebrates and honors outstanding students who make a significant difference in their schools and community.
Hemet-Ryan Air Attack Base: e desert air eld that helps hold the line on SoCal wild res
North San Diego County. For nearly seven decades, Hemet-Ryan Air Attack Base has been one of California’s most important hubs for fighting wildfires from the air, launching tankers and helicopters that protect more
Winterfest
to
in
Wine Country at Galway Downs
include ice skating, Santa and movies
Julie Reeder Publisher Galway Downs has transformed its sprawling equestrian grounds into a sparkling seasonal
attraction this year, welcoming families, friends, and visitors to its Winterfest in Temecula. Running through early January, the event offers a festive escape where holiday lights, seasonal
music, and outdoor activities set the tone for winter celebrations in Southern California. Winterfest was built for families: the tiny ones, the grown-up ones, the chaotic ones, and every
The roots of the base go back to the 1950s, when what is now
version in between. Ice skating, roller skating, twinkling lights, music, holiday treats, and perfect photo moments make it an easy than 17,000 square miles of public and private land across Southern California.
Dr. Joseph Komrosky voted TVUSD Board President
(TVUSD) board at the district’s annual organizational meeting, held on December 4, 2025. The vote followed several tense exchanges between board members.
Dr. Komrosky, who previously served as board president, thanked Trustees Dr. Melinda Anderson and Jennifer Wiersma for their support. He also referenced the vote in a social media post,
writing that he was “grateful” to be selected and attributing the outcome to their “faith and confidence.” Valley News/Courtesy photo see WINTERFEST, page A-2
BOARD, page A-5
Valley News/Brian Briggs photo
A CAL FIRE Sikorsky S-70i Black Hawk, which was purchased brand new by the State, which is used for fire or rescue.
Winterfest at Galway Downs in Temecula features an ice skating rink for visitors.
Father dies after kayak capsizes at Lake Perris State Recreation Area; 7-year-old son survives
PERRIS — A 54-year-old man helped keep his 7-year-old son alive but was unable to save himself after their kayak capsized on Saturday, Dec. 6, at Lake Perris State Recreation Area (SRA).
At approximately 4:13 p.m., California State Park peace officers at Lake Perris SRA responded to reports of screaming and persons in distress in the water near Moreno Beach.
The father and son had been k ayaking offshore when their
place to slow down, laugh, and enjoy the Christmas season together. Bring the people you love and make a night of it.
At the heart of the festival are two inviting areas: one for traditional ice skating and another for roller skating. Ice skating is offered every day at 4 p.m., and both rinks are open to all ages, with rental skates available onsite. Children glide alongside parents, couples enjoy slow laps under the lights, and groups gather for a seasonal outing that feels far from the busyness of the holidays. Ice skating is $25, including skates and admission, and general admission starts at $15.
The Light Fest adds even more magic on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, beginning at 4 p.m. Twinkling displays, glowing
kayak capsized. Neither was wearing a life jacket when the vessel capsized, but one was on the vessel. State Park peace officers quickly arrived on scene via patrol vessel and immediately recovered the man, who was unconscious and partially submerged. The 7-year-old boy was in distress but conscious and holding his father, helping to keep himself above water. Investigators noted that the father he roically kept his son afloat
paths, and festive décor turn Galway Downs into a winter wonderland. The festival closes at 8:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and at 10 p.m. Friday through Sunday, giving plenty of time for families to wander, snack, and take photos. Sunday and Friday movie nights bring a festive film series under the Winterfest lights, with movies beginning at 6:30 p.m. Titles in December include “Elf,” “Christmas Vacation,” “The Polar Express,” “The Santa Clause,” “Frozen” and “Toy Story.” In January, “Gremlins” and “Ice Age” keep the winter fun going. Santa Claus appears on weekends, giving children a chance to share their wish lists and pose for photos. On Dec. 14, cowgirls will perform as part of the festivities, adding a Temecula twist to the holiday fun. Photo booths
throughout the ordeal, supporting him until rescue personnel arrived.
Of ficers pulled both individuals from the lake and immediately began CPR on the father. Paramedics arrived and transported both to Riverside University Health System, where the father was pronounced dead. The 7-year-old was being treated at the hospital for evaluation.
California State Parks extends its deepest condolences to the
family and loved ones affected by this tragedy. The incident remains under investigation by California State Parks law enforcement and the Riverside County Sheriff-Coroner’s Office. For additional case details, including identification of the deceased, please contact the Riverside County Sheriff-Coroner’s Office.
State Parks urges all visitors to wear a properly fitted, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket
at all times while recreating near or on the water. California law requires children 12 and under to wear a life jacket on a moving recreational vessel of any length. For safety tips when recreating in the outdoors, visit parks.ca.gov/ SafetyTips. Submitted by the California Department of Parks and Recreation.
December13,2025
and private cabanas offer cozy spaces and great backdrops for families, date nights, and groups of friends. Single-day festival tickets, weekend festival tickets, and VIP options are available for those who want an upgraded experience. Winterfest is closed on Dec. 25 for Christmas. On Dec. 31, Galway Downs will host a special New Year’s Eve celebration as a private, ticketed event. With its blend of skating, lights, music, movies, Santa visits, and special attractions, Galway Downs Winterfest is poised to become an annual tradition — an event families and friends look forward to returning to year after year. Plan your visit at WinterfestinWineCountry.com.
Ceremony starts at 10:00 am Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025
Sponsor a wreath today to be placed on a veteran’s grave this December at Temecula Public Cemetery District. Scan the QR code to make a donation online or visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/ CATPCD
An ice skating rink is featured at Galway Downs Winterfest, and admission includes access to skate rental.
blend
skating, lights, music, movies, Santa visits,
special attractions, Galway Downs Winterfest is poised to become an annual tradition.
Town Square Park twinkles at night with holiday lights
Menifee road repairs to cause delays
Menifee has a project update on the Underwood Development Project.
KB Homes will be performing road repairs in the adjacent neighborhoods near Rouse and Antelope Roads. Work is expected to continue through mid-December.
Motorists should anticipate traffic delays during construction.
For a current list of street projects and construction updates, visit our interactive mobile and web map at www.cityofmenifee. us/traffic
Electric car catches fire after crash, killing solo occupant
MENIFEE — Officers from the Menifee Police Department responded to the area of Lindenberger Rd and Scott Rd in reference to a witness calling and reporting a vehicle crashing into a streetlight pole and catching on fire early Sunday, Dec. 7, at approximately 12:26 a.m.
Officers arrived on scene and observed a Mercedes-Benz vehicle fully engulfed in flames.
When officers spoke to the witness on scene, they stated the vehicle was driving eastbound on Scott Rd, approaching Lindenberger Rd. The vehicle drifted to the south side of the roadway as it approached the intersection, then collided with a streetlight pole. The vehicle immediately caught fire. The witness did not see a driver exit the vehicle.
CAL FIRE responded and began to extinguish the fire. It
was discovered the vehicle was an all-electric vehicle, and due to the batteries of the vehicle, it took several minutes to extinguish the fire. Once the fire was fully extinguished, officers observed the deceased, a solo occupant in the driver’s seat.
The Menifee Police Department Traffic Unit responded and assumed the investigation. At the time of this release, investigators have not yet identified the deceased and the County Coroner’s office responded to assist with the investigation. The contributing factors to the collision are currently unknown. This is an ongoing investigation. Anyone with information related to the crash is urged to contact the Traffic Unit main line at (951) 723-1500.
Submitted by Menifee Police Department.
The holiday season kicked off in Murrieta on Saturday, Dec. 6 with the Festival of Trees tree lighting at Town Square Park. Visitors can now walk through the park when it gets dark and enjoy the holiday lights on the trees. Town Square Park is located at 11 Town Square, Murrieta.
Valley News/Shane Gibson photos
AIRFIELD from page A-1
Hemet-Ryan Air Attack Base was part of the Ryan School of Aeronautics. This World War II training site helped prepare thousands of military pilots, including future test pilot Chuck Yeager.
CAL FIRE began using the field as an air attack base in 1957, making Hemet-Ryan one of the earliest permanent air-tanker bases in the state. In those early years, state and federal agencies relied on privately owned, World War II–era aircraft converted for firefighting duty.
“As those airframes aged and parts grew scarce, CAL FIRE acquired surplus U.S. Navy Grumman S-2A submarine-hunting planes and converted them into retardant tankers using a design developed by Hemet Valley Flying Service in Hemet. The first two converted S-2 aircraft were tested right here at Hemet-Ryan, and that basic design has been in continuous service since 1975,” said Hemet-Ryan Air Attack Base CAL FIRE Capt. Brian Wagner.
In speaking about the S-2s, which started life as Navy submarine hunters in the mid-1960s, Capt. Joseph Donovan said. “CAL FIRE leases them from the federal government for a dollar a year. We’ve converted them to carry about a thousand gallons of retardant, and the pilots put that load down with incredible precision.”
In 1977, Hemet-Ryan expanded again when CAL FIRE launched a pilot “helitack” program with a contracted helicopter and a small crew. The test was so successful that it became a full-time helitack base with a permanent helicopter and dedicated firefighting crew based at the airfield. By the early 1990s, the base received upgraded Bell UH-1H “Super Huey” helicopters and a more capable OV-10 Bronco to serve as the air-attack and coordination platform over large fires.
For decades, Hemet-Ryan was statistically the busiest air tanker base in the United States, at one point delivering an average of 1.5 million gallons of retardant each year onto wildfires across the region.
“There are only three bases in California where a CAL FIRE helitack program and a fixed-wing air attack base share the same ramp. Hemet-Ryan was the first,” Capt. Wagner explained. “Most places, there’s a line in the sand—helicopter guys on one side, tankers on the other. Here, it’s all one team.”
“Our firefighters are interchangeable,” Capt. Wagner said.
“On a three-day shift they might spend one or two days on the air base and one or two days on the helicopter. Everybody learns both jobs. At a lot of other bases, there’s a hard line—helicopter folks don’t go to the fixed-wing side and vice versa.”
“Once dispatch gives the voiceout, the clock starts,” Capt. Wagner said. “In the OV-10, we can be taxiing in about three minutes and airborne a couple of minutes after that. The Black Hawk is usually off the ground in around ten. For the S-2s, we shoot for about a five-minute turnaround—land, reload with retardant, and back in the air. During fire season, they sit full, so they’re ready to go.”
“Once we confirm the fire’s coordinates, we establish a Fire Traffic Area—a five-mile ring where every firefighting aircraft is under our control,” Capt. Wagner said. Helicopters work from the surface up to about five hundred feet. Then we are managing the whole picture from the back seat of the OV-10 at 1000 feet above the ground. Above us are tankers at another thousand feet. We’re managing the whole picture. Any aircraft coming within twelve miles has to call us, and if we haven’t talked by seven miles, they’re not allowed to enter. We’re usually listening to ten or more frequencies at once. Everything is coordinated verbally—no pointing—so you have to be very clear and very calm.”
What flies out of Hemet-Ryan today
Today, Hemet-Ryan is one of roughly 20 CAL FIRE air attack bases strategically placed around the state. From its location on Hemet’s western edge, the base covers a vast initial-attack zone that stretches across Riverside County and into San Diego, San Bernardino, and, when needed, neighboring counties.
A typical lineup at the base, according to Fire Capt. Donovan, includes: Two S-2T air tankers, each capable of carrying about 1000 to
1,200 gallons of fire retardant for rapid initial attack on new starts.
An OV-10A Bronco used as the “air attack” ship, orbiting above fires to direct tankers, helicopters, and ground crews.
A CAL FIRE Sikorsky S-70i Black Hawk, which was purchased brand new by the State, which can be used for fire or rescue.
During peak fire season, the base also hosts contract aircraft. In 2023, for example, Riverside County funded an “exclusive use” Sikorsky S-64 Skycrane—call sign “Three-Seven-Sierra”—that can drop more than 2,000 gallons of water in a single pass and quickly refill from lakes, rivers, or portable tanks using a belly-mounted snorkel.
Beyond CAL FIRE, Hemet-Ryan is also home to a Riverside County Sheriff’s aviation unit, Mercy Air medical helicopters, and a Civil Air Patrol squadron, making the field a year-round aviation hub for emergencies of all kinds.
CAL FIRE and Hemet Ryan Air Attack Base invests heavily in training to keep the team ready.
According to Fire Captain Martinez, “Captains don’t have to be pilots, but they must be ‘front seat qualified’ and complete the ‘Hellac Captain’s Academy’, a 7-day training course. They also need to complete a 2-week course to operate the air rescue hoist.”
“Captains are trained, however, to fly the aircraft and land it safely in case something happens to the pilot, even though they are not pilots themselves,” said Capt. Martinez.
”Captains have to maintain currency through regular training, including flying at night with night vision goggles.” Martinez also said that the use of lasers is essential for night water drops, allowing the captain to precisely direct the drops.
The department has invested heavily in infrastructure like water tanks to support air rescue operations.
Black Hawks bring new power and rescue capability to Hemet-Ryan Capt. Donovan said his favorite aircraft at Hemet Ryan was the Sikorsky S-70i Black Hawk. They are 64’11” long. Black Hawks have evolved as a result of all the lessons learned by Huey pilots during Vietnam and Korea. They were adjusted for more space and more power. They are also used for rescue if needed.
Fire Capt. Martinez explained that firefighters are trained to do both fire and rescue. With a hoist on the Black Hawk, they are able to rescue victims from terrain like Santa Margarita River Valley or Santa Rosa Plateau, where trucks aren’t able to reach. He said, “We just got a basket, everyone in Cal Fire just got it. Most of the crew chiefs were just trained on it. The rescues use either an ARV (Arial Rescue Vest) or a Stokes Basket. He said that the victim is packaged to be extracted from the terrain and a firefighter is hoisted through the air with the victim to the helicopter.
A critical role in regional fire seasons
Because of its central location between the San Jacinto Mountains, Santa Ana foothills, Inland Empire and North San Diego County backcountry, Hemet-Ryan aircraft often arrive first over new wildfires. In many cases, that early air attack makes the difference between a small incident and a major disaster.
CAL FIRE’s aviation program is designed so that S-2T tankers, when available, can reach most fires in state responsibility areas within about 20 minutes of dispatch. Aircraft from Hemet-Ryan have played key roles on some of Southern California’s most infamous wildfires, including the Old and Cedar fires in 2003 and the Esperanza Fire in 2006, when tankers and air-attack aircraft helped support ground crews working in steep, wind-driven terrain.
On any bad fire day, Hemet-Ryan’s tankers may make multiple “turns” from the base to a nearby incident, landing briefly to reload retardant before heading back into the smoke. At the same time, the helitack crew may be shuttling firefighters onto remote ridgetops or making water drops to cool hotspots and protect homes. Because the base is designated as an interagency hub, its aircraft can be dispatched to assist local fire departments, federal agencies, and neighboring counties when fire activity spikes, effectively see FIREFIGHTING, page A-5
Valley News/Brian Briggs photos
CAL FIRE FIre Captain Bud Martinez, Fire Captain Brian Wagner, and Fire Captain Joseph Donovan stand in front of an OV-10A Bronco which started life as a submarine hunter in the 60s.
Two S-2T air tankers, each capable of carrying up to 1,200 gallons of fire retardant for rapid initial attack on new starts.
“Disney’s animators actually camped out here for a few months when they made Planes: Fire & Rescue,” Captain Wagner said. “The tower and our old Quonset hut are in the movie, and they modeled some of the characters’ faces and mannerisms from our captains. They even used our old helicopter number and recorded aircraft sounds right here.”
FIREFIGHTING from page A-4
turning Hemet into one of Southern California’s airborne fire stations.
In addition to the Hemet area, the Hemet-Ryan Air Attack firefighters have frequently fought fires from the air in DeLuz, Rainbow, and Fallbrook over the last few years, knocking down fires in amazing times and averting larger disasters.
Modernization for a hotter, drier future
The importance of Hemet-Ryan has only grown as California’s fire seasons have become longer and more intense. Recognizing that, state and county leaders have pursued major upgrades to the aging facilities for more than a decade.
In the mid-2000s, the Riverside County Board of Supervisors and the State of California approved tens of millions of dollars in planned improvements, including lengthening the primary runway so the base could safely support heavier large air tankers, building new barracks and operations buildings, expanding retardant loading pits and constructing modern hangars. Funding delays slowed those plans, but CAL FIRE and the county have continued working on a comprehensive replacement project.
Aging facilities and long-delayed replacement In November 2025, a new environmental document was released for the Hemet-Ryan Air Attack Base Replacement Project, which would rebuild the base with updated operations, maintenance and support facilities to meet today’s and tomorrow’s wildfire demands.
“This base has been around a long time,” Capt. Wagner said, gesturing toward a 1950s-era Quonset hut and a control tower that have seen generations of
BOARD from page A-1
The meeting ended early after two separate altercations — one outside the board room that reportedly became physical, and another inside involving trustees. Dr. Anderson, at one point, contacted her attorney by phone from the dais because of a threat from fellow Trustee Emil Barham.
While agonizing over being the deciding vote on who becomes president of the board, Dr, Anderson openly discussed how she couldn’t vote for Barham as president because of actions she considered disingenuous, including an accusation that he had reported a local law firm that had done work for the board to
crews. “We’ve had full blueprints for a new facility drawn up twice in the last twenty years. Each time, by the time the plans were ready, we were already outgrowing them. We make it work, but we’re operating out of buildings from the ’50s and ’80s and a triple-wide that serves as our kitchen and day room.”
Some of those aged facilities, like the Quonset hut, were modeled in a Disney movie, according to Capt. Wagner. “Disney’s animators actually camped out here for a few months when they made Planes: Fire & Rescue,” Captain Wagner said. “The tower and our old Quonset hut are in the movie, and they modeled some of the characters’ faces and mannerisms from our captains. They even used our old helicopter number and recorded aircraft sounds right here.”
A quiet neighbor with a big impact
Most days of the year, Hemet-Ryan looks like any other small regional airport. Local pilots taxi out for practice flights, Civil Air Patrol cadets may attend weekly meetings, and mechanics service aircraft in low hangars along the field.
But when the humidity drops and the winds shift, the airfield’s purpose becomes clear. Sirens sound, engines roar to life and the red-and-white aircraft that call Hemet-Ryan home head out again over local hills and canyons, helping to protect local communities and beyond.
For residents who see those tankers and helicopters overhead on smoky afternoons, Hemet-Ryan Air Attack Base is more than a dot on the map. It is one of the region’s first and most powerful lines of defense—an experienced, battle-tested force in California’s ongoing fight against wildfire.
the State Bar, which she regarded as highly inappropriate.
District staff advised the board to adjourn and postpone the remaining agenda items, including choosing a Board Clerk, until January, given the actions of members of the audience and the possible threats to the safety of the meeting.
Dr. Komrosky said the next regular meeting was scheduled for Jan. 13 and that public speakers who were not heard on Tuesday will be allowed to address the board at that time. He encouraged parents, students, staff, and community members to continue participating, saying their voices are important to district leadership.
Valley News/Brian Briggs photos
Tanks full of chemicals to make Phos-Chek, the red liquid that is seen dropping from planes and helicopters to fight fires.
The tower used for training.
The white board has everyone's duties for the day.
An old Quonset hut houses equipment.
Night vision goggles allow the firemen to fight fires at night.
Vista Murrieta alum Claire Little-Chambers battles in NCAA thriller as BYU falls to Cal Poly
Four Bobcats given allleague volleyball honors
Joe Naiman Special to Valley News
The Arrowhead League girls volleyball coaches bestowed all-league recognition upon four Hamilton High School players.
Evalina Hernandez and Kaitlynn Barreto were placed on the all-league first team. Danica Saul and Laura Palma Vega received second-team designation.
“This was the best season we’ve had, certainly in the last several years,” said Hamilton coach Lance Fogle. “Being able to recognize them in that way was good.”
Hamilton placed second in the Arrowhead League with a 6-3 record (one game was canceled due to weather). The Bobcats were 19-10 overall, including a loss in the first round of the CIF Southern Section’s Division 9 playoffs. Hamilton had not had a winning league record since any of Hamilton’s players were born and had not posted an overall winning percentage above .500 since 2015, which was also the Bobcats’ previous season in the CIF playoffs.
Hernandez and Barreto are both seniors, and both were outside hitters. Barreto joined the varsity as a sophomore and Hernandez was a junior when she first played varsity volleyball for Hamilton.
During the 2025 league season Hernandez had 113 digs, 81 kills, 24 serving aces, six solo blocks, and 14 assisted blocks for a total of 20, and two assists. For the overall season, she had 258 digs, 169 kills, 37 aces, 36 blocks consisting of nine solo and 27
assisted ones, and 12 assists.
“She was pretty much the anchor for our team. Because of her skill level, she elevated the team,” Fogle said.
Barreto had 93 digs, 41 kills, nine aces, one solo and 14 assisted blocks, and one assist during league matches. Her overall season activity included 204 digs, 102 kills, 25 aces, two solo and 30 assisted blocks, and three assists.
“She was probably our most consistent player all year,” Fogle said.
Barreto is a three-sport athlete who also plays soccer and softball for the Bobcats. During her junior softball season in 2025 her .745 batting average ranked 30th nationally, her on-base percentage of .790 was the 39th best in the nation, and her 1.961 slugging percentage was fourth among all American high school softball players and first among California hitters.
“It’s not even her primary sport,” Fogle said of volleyball for Barreto.
Saul and Palma Vega are both juniors, both played as setters, and both have been on the team since their 2023 freshman seasons. This year, Saul had 83 assists, 43 kills, 35 digs, 11 aces, and 17 assisted blocks in league play and 169 assists, 84 kills, 66 digs, 26 aces, and two solo and 39 assisted blocks for the overall season. Palma Vega had 117 assists, 89 digs, 39 aces, 13 kills, three solo blocks, and five assisted blocks against league opposition and 243 assists, 138 digs, 83 aces, 22 kills, four solo blocks, and 14 assisted blocks for the overall season.
JP Raineri Sports Editor
LOS ANGELES – The NCAA Division I Women’s Volleyball Championship dreams for Brigham Young University and local star Claire Little-Chambers came to an unexpected end Thursday night at the Galen Center. In a gripping first-round match, the fifth-seeded BYU Cougars were defeated by the twelfth-seeded Cal Poly Mustangs in a dramatic five-set battle.
Little-Chambers, a former standout from Vista Murrieta High School and a two-time Southwestern League MVP, returned to Southern California as a key player for a strong BYU team. The Cougars entered the national tournament with high expectations, looking to make a deep run. Their journey, however, was cut short by a determined Cal Poly squad that engineered a stunning comeback.
The match was a back-andforth contest from the start. Cal Poly claimed the opening set 25-19, signaling their intent to challenge the higher-seeded Cougars. BYU responded with authority, taking the next two sets 25-17 and 25-20. With a 2-1 lead, it appeared BYU was on track to
advance to the second round.
However, facing elimination, the Mustangs elevated their performance in the fourth set. They took control midway through and held on for a 25-20 victory, pushing the match to a decisive fifth set. In the final frame, Cal Poly seized the early momentum and never let go, securing the upset with a 15-10 win and ending BYU’s season.
The match statistics reflect the intensity of the competition, which featured 26 tie scores. Cal Poly’s offense proved to be the difference-maker, as the team posted 64 kills and a .313 hitting percentage. Kendall Beshear led the Mustangs with an impressive 20 kills, while setter Emme Bullis directed the offense with 52 assists.
For BYU, the loss concluded a season that saw them earn a No. 5 seed in the national tournament.
The team fought hard but ultimately could not hold off the late surge from Cal Poly.
Little-Chambers’ participation in the tournament was a significant moment for the Temecula and Murrieta volleyball communities. Her journey from a dominant high school player at Vista Murrieta to competing on a major stage in the NCAA championship highlights the level of talent developed in the region. Her success at the collegiate level continues to inspire local athletes. Cal Poly’s victory sends them to the second round against the host, fourth-seeded USC. The Mustangs now look to continue their surprising run in the tournament, while BYU heads into the offseason after a hard-fought match brought their promising season to a close. Send local sports tips and info to sports@reedermedia.com.
Hoffarth wins Trailer Figure 8 season championship
Second in overall Night of Destruction points
Joe Naiman Special to Valley News
San Jacinto driver Lane Hoffarth won the 2025 Trailer Figure 8 season championship at Perris Auto Speedway while finishing second in the overall Night of Destruction points standings. Hoffarth also drove in the regular Figure 8 races and in the Demo Cross class. He finished the season sixth in the Demo Cross standings and had the seventh-most regular Figure 8 points. The Night of Destruction season as well as the overall Perris Auto Speedway season was
BYU faces a first round match up with Cal Poly SLO in the NCAA Division 1 Women’s Championship at Galen Center in Los Angeles. Valley News/David Canales photos
Former Vista Murrieta standout and 2x Southwestern league MVP Claire Little-Chambers playing for the BYU Cougars in the NCAA Division 1 Women’s Volleyball Championships.
Murrieta’s Claire Little-Chambers receives a serve for BYU.
During a Demo Cross race Lane Hoffarth and his minivan encounter a boat on the track.
Lane Hoffarth and his minivan in a Trailer Figure 8 race. Valley News/Doug Allen photo
Valley News/Kenny Lonngren photo
Juana Chodakauskas Registered Dietitian, Kaiser Permanente Southern California
With the holiday season in full swing, many of us find ourselves moving from one celebration to the next, surrounded by generous meals and festive spreads. But let’s be honest: later in the evening or the morning after can sometimes feel less like gratitude and more like regret. That “food coma,” uneasy stomach or weight gain is a reminder that indulgence has its limits.
The good news? You can savor every bite of your holiday meal without sacrificing your health or your joy. Remember that you can absolutely enjoy all those holiday meals without overeating, gaining significant weight or sacrificing your enjoyment this season.
Instead of approaching the table with guilt, focus on enjoying festive dishes in a way that leaves you satisfied and refreshed. Here are some practical tips to make holiday dining both enjoyable and mindful:
Fuel up early: Don’t skip breakfast or lunch. Eating earlier helps prevent overindulging later.
Portion with purpose: Try to fill half your plate with colorful veggies like green beans or roasted vegetables, a quarter with lean protein such as turkey breast, and
MENIFEE – As the holiday season approaches, the Menifee Police Department reminds drivers to celebrate responsibly by choosing a sober way to travel. Use a designated driver, public transit or call a taxi or rideshare service to get to and from your destination safely. Every day, about 34 people in the United States are killed in drunk-driving crashes — that’s one person every 42 minutes.
“Our priority is keeping the community safe this holiday season,” said Menifee Police Chief Chris Karrer. “If you’re heading out to celebrate, don’t risk it. Plan ahead for a safe drive with a designated driver or by arranging alternative transportation.”
Drunk driving continues to be a major factor in fatal traffic crashes in the United States, especially
during the holidays. During the month of December from 20192023, there were 4,931 people killed in alcohol-impaired crashes according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. In California, 1,355 people died in alcohol-impaired traffic crashes in 2023.
While drunk driving is a significant traffic safety problem, impairment is not limited to alcohol. Prescription drugs, overthe-counter medications, cannabis products, and other drugs may also impair your ability to drive. If you plan on drinking or taking medications with a driving warning label, let someone who is sober drive. If you see someone who appears to be driving while impaired, call 9-1-1.
Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the Cal-
the last quarter with comforting carbs like mashed potatoes.
Savor the moment: Eat slowly, pace yourself, put your fork down between bites and truly taste the flavors.
Skip the second round: That’s a tough one. Instead of piling on more, treasure the first plate which is often enough to satisfy both body and soul.
Stay hydrated: Drink water throughout the meal and the day. Proper hydration helps digestion and prevents overeating.
Every calorie in excess we consume is stored as fat, which over time can increase risks for chronic health conditions. But even beyond the science, overeating can take away from the energy needed to fully enjoy gatherings. It’s also important to give yourself grace. Indulging occasionally doesn’t make you a failure - it’s part of living fully. If you do go a little overboard, consider going for a walk, stretching, or engaging in light activity with friends or family to help your digestion and to feel better.
Holiday gatherings aren’t about restriction – they’re about gratitude. By eating mindfully, you give yourself the gift of feeling your best, enjoying the moment, and creating memories that last far longer than the leftovers.
Submitted by Kaiser Permanente Southern California. Savor
Valley News/Anete Lusina photo (pexels.com)
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
Dec. 11 – 4:30-6 p.m. Make Mason Jar Lanterns at the Temecula Public Library, 30600 Pauba Rd., Temecula. Create winter scenes using tissue paper and mason jars while enjoying hot chocolate. The program is designed for students in grades 7 through 12. Registration is open now. Call 951-693-8900.
Dec. 12 – 5:30-7 p.m. K-Pop Winter Wonder Land at the Lab, Murrieta Public Library, 8 Town Square, Murrieta. Listen to K-pop while snapping selfies, playing games, crafting fan art, and winning prizing. All ages. Register for this activity online at https://bit.ly/ mplclasses, category “Library.”
ONGOING – MilVet Jr. is a MilVet program for our youngest heroes in training. Meetings take place on the first Tuesday of the month. Locations will vary between the MilVet office and local venues. Activities that focus on learning teamwork, leadership, and community are geared for ages 5-11, but all children are welcome to join. Limited spots available so sign up at milvet.org/ milvetjr
COMMUNITY EVENTS
Now–Jan. 4 – WinterFest in Wine Country at Galway Downs, 38801 Los Corralitos Rd., Temecula. Santa, holiday movies (Fri/Sun), carolers, kids zone, roller skating, holiday crafts, food, vendors, full bar, music, dancing & more! Ice skating daily. More info and tickets at winterfestinwinecountry.com.
Dec. 11 – 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Shop Small, Shine Bright in Old Town Temecula. Guests are invited to explore local shops offering unique finds, exclusive promotions, and fun activities. Carolers will perform throughout Old Town from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. and again from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., bringing cheerful melodies to the streets. Santa will greet visitors from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Cookie Time at the Christmas Tree on Main Street begins at 2 p.m., accompanied by holiday carolers. Dec. 12 – 5:30-7:30 p.m. Crui-
sin’ & Cocoa-ing in Old Town Temecula. The event features a lighted car cruise from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., showcasing vehicles decorated in dazzling holiday lights as they travel down Old Town Front Street. Guests can enjoy complimentary hot cocoa at participating candy and coffee shops while supplies last. Carolers will also be performing from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., adding festive harmony to the evening.
Dec. 13 – 1:30-4 p.m. Holiday Fun Unlocked at Town Square Park, 41905 Main Street, Temecula. Kids Roll & Stroll takes place from 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., inviting children to decorate their wagons, bikes, trikes, or scooters and parade through Town Square Park. Santa will return to Town Square Park from 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. for photo opportunities and holiday-themed activities led by local nonprofit organizations. Carolers will once again spread holiday cheer throughout Old Town from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Dec. 13 – 4-8 p.m. RambleOn at the Ranch Car Show: Christmas Edition at Vail Headquarters, 32115 Temecula Parkway, Temecula. Classic car show featuring pre-1975 hot rods, lowriders, and custom cars. Mr. & Mrs. Claus will be visiting. This family-friendly event will have festive lights, decorations, giveaways, cool vendors, DJs and more surprises.
Dec. 13 – 6-10 p.m. Teddy’s Private Academy presents the 2nd annual Holiday Concert & Fundraiser, 27695 Coyote Circle, Quail Valley. This free event is open to the public. Bring your picnic blankets or lawn chairs and cuddle up to enjoy a wonderful Christmas concert under the stars, Caribbean style. Food vendors & trucks, holiday treats, photos with Santa, and the band Upstream will be performing wonderful holiday music. Donations will be collected for Spark of Love Toy Drive, Animal Friends of the Valleys, and Menifee Valley Community Cupboard.
Dec. 13 – 7 p.m. Holiday Bike Ride, starting at Harveston Community Park, Temecula. Bike Temecula Valley in partnership with the City of Temecula, is hosting the Holiday Bike Ride, a family-friendly event designed for riders of all ages and skill levels.
Meet at Harveston Community Park at 6:30 p.m. Tour begins promptly at 7 p.m. and will ride through the Harveston neighborhood. Pre-registration is encouraged online at TemeculaCA.gov/ Register
Dec. 14 – 12-4 p.m. Holiday at Vail HQ, 32115 Temecula Parkway, Temecula. Find the perfect holiday gifts with local small businesses while enjoying live music at the historic Vail Headquarters. Dec. 18 – Downtown Murrieta Market Nights. Support local small businesses and stroll along Washington Avenue. Visit the Alleyway at Juniper & Washington to browse local artists’ works as well as live music and dance performers. More information at https://murrietamarketnights.com
Dec. 18 – 7 p.m. Glade Jul: A Program of Scandinavian Christmas Music presented by Southern CA Damekor, at Temecula Music Teacher, 27649 Commerce Center Dr., Temecula. Free admission. Donations welcome. For more information, call director Lynne Bradley at 760-505-8758.
Dec. 22 – 3 p.m. Jigsaw Puzzle Competition: Friends and Family Edition at the Murrieta Public Library, 8 Town Square, Murrieta. All ages welcome. Bring your own team of up to 4 members or team up with others for a fun-filled afternoon. Each team will receive a 500-piece puzzle and have 90 minutes to complete it. The first team to finish will win an Amazon gift card. Space is limited to 8 teams, so registration is required: https://bit.ly/mplclasses, category “Library.”
ONGOING – Wednesdays, 7 a.m. Grandfathers for Golf is holding weekly fundraiser golf outings at Golden Era Golf Course in San Jacinto (19871 Gilman Springs Road). Cost to play is $25, which includes 18 holes of golf and a golf cart, and supports the Grandfathers for Golf nonprofit that teaches area children golf for free. NOTE: Golden Era will be closed the month of October for reseeding, but Wednesday golf outings will resume in November and run indefinitely.) Book a tee time at 951-604-1312.
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 – 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 intermediate. $5 per lesson. Contact Joyce Hohenadl at 951674-2159.
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 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.
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
Dec. 11 – 7:30 a.m. Murrieta/ Wildomar Chamber of Commerce Networking Breakfast at The Cove Bar & Grill. Chamber president & CEO Patrick Ellis will be reporting on the State of the Chamber. Register at bit.ly/ mwcnbdec25.
Dec. 11 – 4 p.m. 2025 State of the County: A Culture of Winning, at Acrisure Arena, 75702 Varner Rd., Palm Desert. Event program will focus on current year updates as well as highlight future projects and goals. To register, visit https://www.eventbrite. com/e/2025-state-of-riverside-county-registration-1743666967839.
Dec. 11 – 6:30 p.m. Winchester-Homeland Municipal Advisory Council Meeting at Francis Domenigoni Community Center, 32665 Haddock St., Winchester. All meetings are open to the public. We generally have speakers representing Supervisor Washington’s office, local elected officials, various county departments, utility providers, public safety agencies, and others addressing items of local and regional interest. We also give continuing updates and information presented about several projects within the boundaries of our MAC area.
ONGOING – 10 a.m. The Temecula Valley Republican Women meet each month at the Wilson Creek Winery, 33960 Rancho California Road, Temecula. For questions, please contact info@ tvrwomen.org
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
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 – Assistance
League of Temecula Valley hosts a meeting for its member volunteers and guests every first Tuesday of the month (dark in July) at their facility at 28720 Via Montezuma, Temecula at 9:30 a.m. social and 10 a.m. meeting. The meeting room is adjacent to the thrift shop. Anyone interested in exploring volunteering or learning more about the organization is welcome to attend. Email altemecula@ yahoo.com for more information.
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 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 833349-2054.
ONGOING – Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous, a free 12step recovery program for anyone suffering from food obsession, overeating, undereating or bulimia, has meetings throughout the U.S. and the world. Contact 781932-6300, or for local meetings, call 925-321-0170 or visit www. foodaddicts.org ONGOING – The Murrieta Garden Club meets each month at the Murrieta Community Center, 41810 Juniper St. Anyone who likes to garden or is interested in plants is welcome. Membership is $10 per year. Find more information about the monthly event or project on Facebook.
ONGOING – Temecula Valley Rose Society meets each month. For more information and new meeting dates and places, visit www.temeculavalleyrosesociety. org ONGOING – 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, memoirs, and screenwriters. We host writing-craft discussions; attendees may read up to a five-minute excerpt from their work for feedback/critique. RSVP at www.dorlandartscolony.com/ sunday-scribblers.html.
Accept on verge of 50th anniversary with Dec. 20 Pechanga concert with Queensryche
Joe Naiman
Special to Valley News
Wolf Hoffmann is the last original remaining member of the band Accept, which will be in concert Dec. 20 along with Queensryche at Pechanga Casino’s Pechanga Theater. The Pechanga Casino concert will be the last on Accept’s current tour, which will be followed by a 50th anniversary tour for the band.
“I think it’s going to be fantastic,” Hoffmann said.
Hoffmann was 16 when he joined Accept in 1976. At the time he didn’t think about the band still touring 50 years later. “Who could have anticipated that?” he said.
Accept made the transition from a garage band to a studio album band with a 1979 self-titled album. The German band first reached a national chart with its 1982 album Restless and Wild, which peaked at #7 on the Swedish charts and #98 on the British charts. The 1983 album Balls to the Wall was the first to reach the top 100 in Germany or the United States, while the 1985
Temecula
Metal Heart album peaked at #13 in Germany and #4 in Sweden.
The 1986 album Russian Roulette reached #5 on the German charts.
With the exception of a 2005 European tour, the band members worked on solo projects from 1997 to 2010. Current vocalist
Mark Tornillo joined Accept in 2010 after original lead singer Udo Dirkschneider opted not to rejoin the band. The six albums
with Tornillo peaked at different positions among the German top six, with the 2014 album Blind Rage reaching #1 and the most recent album Humanoid peaking at #5.
“We couldn’t have lasted as a band if the fans didn’t support it,” Hoffmann said. “The fans are still there, and they come to see us.”
Humanoid, which is also the band’s first album with Napalm
Records, was released in 2024.
“It did really well, and we’re basically still touring on that album,”
Hoffmann said.
Accept had a Humanoid tour in 2024, and next year the band will have its 50th anniversary tour.
“This year is sort of in between,” Hoffmann said.
The 2025 tour, which will conclude with the December 20 concert at Pechanga, does not
have an official name, but this year is the 40th anniversary of the Metal Heart album and the 15th anniversary of the new era of the band with Tornillo. “We have all kinds of reasons to celebrate, even this year,” Hoffmann said.
The Humanoid tour didn’t include Pechanga Casino. “We just never made it to Temecula,” Hoffmann said.
The concert will be Accept’s first in Temecula. “I’ve been to a lot of places, but not there,” Hoffmann said.
Bookings for the 50th anniversary tour have not yet been finalized so Accept may or may not play in Temecula next year.
The Dec. 20 concert will allow fans to see the band this year at Pechanga Casino.
“I hope everybody comes out, and it’s going to be a blast,” Hoffmann said.
“This band’s going stronger than ever. It’s crazy after all these years,” Hoffmann said. “I’m just grateful for the fans that they’re still coming to see us, and we’re having a ball every night.”
Joe Naiman can be reached at jnaiman@reedermedia.com.
6 and runs through Feb. 8, 2026, features portraits and landscapes that subvert the typical romanticized narrative of Native peoples. She Sang Me a Good Luck Song is based on the Heyday Books publication of the same name, edited by Theresa Harlan (Kewa Pueblo/Jemez Pueblo).
The late Aguilar (Mountain Maidu/Pit River/Walker River Paiute) spoke his heart through these 28 photographs, depicting Native basket makers and dancers as well as military veterans and motorcyclists. These images provide an intimate look into the lives of contemporary Native peoples and document the perseverance and renewal of Native California’s living, vibrant cultures.
As Larry McNeil, Tlingit photographer, scholar, and professor of photography at Boise State University notes, “Dugan’s photography embodies the ancient spirits of giving and sharing: it’s visual poetry that resonates through time with the land and the people gently, yet assertively…Beautiful and insightful photographic storytelling for all people of the world.”
Photographer Aguilar documented Native cultures for over 40 years and exhibited his work throughout the United States and
Movie review: ‘Five Nights at Freddy’s 2’
Bob Garver Contributor
From its ridiculous opening scene, there is little denying that “Five Nights at Freddy’s 2” is one of the stupidest movies of 2025. Its only real competition comes from Disney’s live-action “Snow White” remake thinking that its Dwarfs were fit for human eyesight. And it’s not even the fun kind of stupid horror movie. It was never really on the table for this to be a “good” horror movie like “Sinners,” but it could have at least been an interesting flavor of stupid. The potential for such flavor is at least present in the opening scene, but the movie squanders even that prospect fairly quickly.
In the opening scene, set in 1982, morose young Charlotte (Audrey Lynn Marie) eschews every other entertaining aspect of children’s pizza emporium Freddy Fazbear’s to wait for her favorite animatronic character. She turns her attention long enough to notice a boy being abducted (as would later become common at Freddy’s) and tries to alert parents at nearby tables, but none will listen to her. If her warnings had caused a deadly panic, then maybe that could have been a
plausible foundation for a horror movie, but no, the movie seriously has all the adults just blow off a girl who is screaming about witnessing a child abduction. She has no choice but to try to rescue the boy herself, which costs her her life. She dies onstage as her aforementioned favorite animatronic – the Marionette – a character not in the first movie because it did not carry over to the subsequent Freddy’s franchise location where that movie was set, appears to take her soul. In the present day, first-movie protagonist Mike (Josh Hutcherson) is trying to move on with his life. He’s got a good thing going, now with uncontested custody of his younger sister Abby (Piper Rubio) and a budding relationship with cop friend Vanessa (Elizabeth Lail). But Vanessa is still haunted by dreams of her villainous father William (Matthew Lillard, only used for a cameo for the sake of a cameo) and Abby is being bullied by her loathsome science teacher (Wayne Knight).
Plus Abby just has to be obsessed with her old “friends” at Freddy’s, which leads to Mike giving her a radio that lets her talk to the possessed robots. It turns out that the radio lets her talk to the “wrong” possessed robots, as
Valley News/Courtesy photo in the ones at the old Freddy’s location, which includes The Marionette, now possessed by Charlotte. Charlotte, who can possess the Marionette animatronic, but also humans, including a viral ghost chaser (McKenna Grace, actually quite scary on the few occasions that the movie lets her be) is on a mission to rid the world of adults. Not just the adults that ignored her in 1982 – all adults. Some see FREDDY’S, page A-10
in Europe. For 30 years, he was the staff photographer for the California Indian Basketweavers Association and the California Indian Storytellers Association.
She Sang Me A Good Luck Song: The California Indian Photographs of Dugan Aguilar is a partnership with Exhibit Envoy, Heyday Books, and the Native Fund, curated by Theresa Harlan and artist Dugan Aguilar.
This exhibition is presented in partnership with Exhibit Envoy. These works are on loan from ExhibitsUSA, a national program of the Mid-America Arts Alliance. Please contact the Temecula Valley Museum at 951-694-6450 or visit TemeculaCA.gov/TVM for more information on this exhibit. Be sure to follow @TemeculaValleyMuseum for updates.
Southern California Damekor to present ‘Glade
Jul’ in Temecula on Dec. 18
TEMECULA — Southern California Damekor will present Glade Jul, its annual concert of beloved Scandinavian Christmas music, on Thursday, Dec. 18 at 7 p.m. The performance will take place at Temecula Music Teacher, 27649 Commerce Center Dr., Temecula.
Now in its 16th year, Glade Jul opens with the traditional Lucia procession and features classic jul songs from Norway, Sweden, and Finland, sung primarily in their original languages. The program includes a cappella selections as well as pieces accompanied by flute, violin, viola, guitar,
hammer dulcimer, and harp, performed by the ensemble’s talented musicians. There is no admission fee for the concert; a freewill offering will be accepted. Audiences can follow the group on Facebook and Instagram for updates. Southern California Damekor—whose name means “women’s choir”—performs throughout Southern California. For more information about the concert or to inquire about booking a future performance, contact director Lynne Bradley at 760-505-8758.
Accept is a German Heavy Metal band with legendary impact and an iconic reputation spanning over four decades. Valley News/AcceptWorldwide.com photo
A photography exhibit featuring work by Dugan Aguilar is currently showing at the Temecula Valley Museum. Valley News/Courtesy photo
TEMECULA – Filled with stunning photographs revealing the richness and vibrancy of contemporary Native Californian cultures, She Sang Me a Good Luck Song: The California Indian Photographs of Dugan Aguilar is a statewide traveling exhibition. The exhibit, which opened at Temecula Valley Museum on Dec.
Rose Care FUNdamentals for December
Frank Brines Master Rosarian (ARS)
December is a relatively quiet month in our gardens as we let our roses take some “dormancy downtime” marshalling their resources for the burst of growth they’ll go through in the spring. Nonetheless, roses were still actively growing and blooming in many Temecula Valley gardens during the Thanksgiving holiday, as most areas haven’t had low temperatures near frost which, on average, occurs in mid-November. Normally, lower nighttime temperatures cool the soil and reset the roses’ biological clock to slow down and go into a kind of dormancy.
Roses need a four- to six-week dormant period during the winter months to allow them to undergo
natural hormonal changes that prepare them for the next growing season, including forming buds at the base of the plant to produce new canes.
At this point, aside from pruning away dead or diseased branches, I encourage you to only remove wilted petals, but do not deadhead or prune until late January to early February.
Be sure to monitor your plants when daytime temperatures are warm: They still need to be kept hydrated. Also, do not fertilize until after your major pruning in January or February – I’ll provide thorough information on all that early next year. Watch for announcements of in-person pruning demonstrations in the area.
Now is a good time to get ready for spring by investing in a soil test, especially if you feel that some parts of your garden did not flourish this year despite providing the basics.
We all know about providing the basics – the so-called “macronutrients” (nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium, or “NPK”) – but neglect minerals that are needed in much smaller amounts, the “micronutrients,” such as sulfur, calcium, magnesium, sodium, iron, manganese, zinc, copper, boron, and others.
Editorial
ROGER
Advertising
A deficiency of micronutrients can retard plant growth no matter how much of the macronutrients you provide. When this happens, the missing nutrients are called “limiting factors.” This column doesn’t endorse specific products, but if you do a web search for “soil test kits” you may find a product that’s right for you. Be careful: You want a kit that will test for micronutrients (see above), not simply macronutrients.
There is still time to order that new rose you have been dreaming about. Garden stores may still be adding to their list of orders or go to your favorite online nursery and make your order. There are many fine new roses that you simply must have. Many are more disease resistant than in the past.
Most nurseries or wholesalers no longer print catalogs, so for a list of current roses available from each, you will have to go
online. You can view the varieties that each will be stocking by going to their website.
It’s been a busy year – and the holidays can be hectic! If you
need a respite, visit TVRS’ Rose Haven garden at 30592 Jedediah Smith Road, Temecula, as well as our web site at https://www. temeculavalleyrosesociety.org/.
Enjoy the holidays of your choice as best you can – and spread the joy of roses!
EMWD approves contracts to update San Jacinto Groundwater Basin hydrogeologic modeling
Joe Naiman Special to Valley News
The Eastern Municipal Water District will update the hydrogeologic conceptual model and groundwater flow model for the San Jacinto Groundwater Basin.
The EMWD board voted 5-0 Nov. 19 to authorize four contracts for the work. INTERA, Inc., will update models for the Hemet North, Hemet South, San Jacinto Upper Pressure, and Canyon groundwater management zones. GSI Environmental, Inc., will update the Lakeview, Perris South, and Menifee zones. Geoscience Support Services, Inc., will handle the Perris North and San Jacinto Lower Pressure zones. Jacobs Engineering Group, Inc., will provide overall quality assurance and quality control and ensure the data and interpretations from all consultants are synthesized, especially along zone boundaries.
The State of California adopted the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA) in 2014 to strengthen local groundwater management. The state Department of Water Resources designated the San Jacinto Groundwater Basin as a high-priority basin, requiring formation of a Groundwater Sustainability Agency (GSA) by 2017 and adoption of a groundwater sustainability plan by 2022, with implementation by 2042.
Eastern is the sole participant for the San Jacinto GSA, which covers about 256 square miles, including Menifee, Moreno Valley and Perris, and the unincorporated communities of Lakeview, Nuevo and Winchester. About 95% of the plan area is under Eastern’s jurisdiction; the remaining 5% is federal land not subject to SGMA. The plan outlines how to achieve sustainable groundwater management within 20 years.
To implement the plan, EMWD
staff identified five components: grant administration; work on data gaps, groundwater-dependent ecosystems and domestic well assessments; design and installation of monitoring wells and equipment upgrades; updating the hydrogeologic conceptual and flow models; and development of a data management system.
SGMA also requires annual reports to DWR on groundwater conditions and plan implementation, with plan updates submitted at least every five years.
The last hydrogeologic conceptual model for the basin was developed about 25 years ago. The model provides a three-dimensional understanding of the basin’s aquifer materials, their properties, structural boundaries such as faults and barriers to flow, and the basin’s water budget, including recharge and discharge areas and non-native inputs like managed recharge or injection.
Updating the comprehensive
hydrogeologic model is needed before refining the overall groundwater flow model, which is expected to be completed by 2028. The updated flow model will support SGMA compliance, help evaluate past and future groundwater conditions, identify potential groundwater development or conjunctive use projects, and assess groundwater storage as part of sustainable and safe yield evaluations. Recent data collected across the basin will be incorporated into the update. Consultant selection was based on recent or historical work within specific management zones and on spatial grouping for continuity and consistency. INTERA, Inc., will be paid $263,563; GSI Environmental, Inc., $243,250; Geoscience Support Services, Inc., $171,124; and Jacobs Engineering Group, Inc., $78,080. Joe Naiman can be reached at jnaiman@reedermedia.com.
FREDDY’S from page A-9
manipulation of Abby and boom, Charlotte now has a whole fleet of Freddy’s robots at her disposal. Characters jockey for control of the robots, who are descending on a
celebration of Freddy’s legacy. The movie looks like it’s ready for a big festival showdown around crowds of people for its climax and then… it ends. Is it an unwelcome spoiler to say that the movie ends with only one robot at the festival and more on the way? Maybe so, but it was an unwelcome spoiling of my moviegoing experience for the movie to end where it did. And the sequel-bait ending is only one of the movie’s problems. The pacing is horrendous, the acting is stiff, cheap jump scares are way
overused, the robots can supposedly sneak up on people despite being giant metal monstrosities, we’re expected to keep track of which robots are under whose control despite there being multiple versions of the same robots, and Matthew Lillard doesn’t share any screentime with fellow “Scream” killer Skeet Ulrich (as Charlotte’s father) despite the movie’s advertising heavily implying a reunion. With very little time left to lose its lead, “Five Nights at Freddy’s 2” is the worst movie of 2025.
Grade: D
“Five Nights at Freddy’s 2” is rated PG-13 for violent content, terror and some language. Its running time is 104 minutes. Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@ nyu.edu.
AnzA VAlley
Valley News/Nadiye Odabaşı photo (pexels.com)
Supervisor Gutierrez to host free produce distributions amid federal assistance uncertainty
BANNING – With recent developments surrounding federal SNAP benefits, the Office of Supervisor Yxstian Gutierrez continues its monthly free produce distribution events to support families facing potential food insecurity.
To date, the initiative has provided tens of thousands of pounds of fresh, nutritious produce to hundreds of families in need across the Fifth District. Last month, the program was able to provide fresh, nutritious produce to approximately 600 families in San Jacinto, 400 families in Banning, and another 300 families in Cabazon.
Distributions in Cabazon and Banning will be held monthly, while distributions in Nuevo and San Jacinto will occur every other month. To register online,
visit https://rivcodistrict5.org/ free-food-distribution and fill out the registration form. Additionally, produce distributions funded by IEHP are being held in the cities of Moreno Valley and Hemet. A calendar for those specific events is available at: https:// www.bienestariswellbeing.org/ calendar-locations.
“These times have brought stress and hardship for working families,” said Supervisor Gutierrez. “Our commitment is to ensure that while we navigate these challenges, no resident has to wonder when their next meal will be, and these produce distributions bring much-needed relief.”
For more information, contact the Office of County Supervisor Gutierrez at (951) 955-1050 or District5@Rivco.org
Prevent Christmas
tree fires with safety tips
you know that half of those who purchase live Christmas trees fail to keep them properly watered?
Other factors can cause Christmas tree fires. Here are some tips
County
Joe Naiman Special to Valley News
The Riverside County Board of Supervisors approved a wildlife management agreement for the five county-operated airports, including French Valley Airport and Hemet-Ryan Airport.
The supervisors’ 5-0 vote on November 18 approved a fiveyear agreement between the county’s Transportation Land Management Agency and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The agreement also includes work plans for the French Valley, Hemet - Ryan, Jacqueline Cochran, Chiriaco Summit, and Blythe airports.
In September 2014, the Federal Aviation Administration gave the county a grant to conduct a wildlife assessment at French Valley Airport, Hemet-Ryan Airport, and Jacqueline Cochran Regional Airport (which is in Thermal).
The assessment identified signif-
icant wildlife presence at each of the three airports, and the FAA required the implementation of a wildlife hazard management plan for those airports.
A wildlife hazard management plan outlines specific measures the airports will take to manage the wildlife hazards. A certified airport wildlife biologist professional must implement those efforts to ensure that the plan is in full compliance with Federal and state wildlife management laws. Airport staff may be able to implement limited deterrence measures.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture employs certified airport wildlife biologists who support airports throughout the United States. The Aviation Department of the Transportation Land Management Agency sought full-time wildlife services from the USDA to implement the wildlife hazard management plan at all five county airports.
to keep you and your family safe. Many will use artificial trees, so when purchasing an artificial tree, look for the label “Fire Resistant.” When purchasing a
live tree, check for freshness. When setting up a tree at home, place it away from fireplaces and radiators.
Heated rooms dry live trees out rapidly. Be sure to keep the stand filled with water and make sure you do not block doorways. These are the main thoroughfares if there is a home fire.
We love those lights; make sure you use only lights that have been tested for safety by a recognized testing laboratory. Check each set of lights, new or old, for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires, or loose connections, and throw out damaged sets. Always replace burned-out bulbs promptly with the same wattage bulbs. Use no more than three standard-size sets of lights per single extension cord. Never use electric lights on a metallic tree because the tree can become charged with electricity from faulty lights, and a person touching a branch could be electrocuted.
Before saying goodbye or goodnight, turn off all lights when you go to bed or leave the house. The lights could short out and start a fire. Never use lighted
candles on or near a tree or near other evergreens, such as wreaths. In homes with small children, take special care to avoid sharp, weighted, or breakable decorations. Keep trimmings with small removable parts out of the reach of children who could swallow or inhale small pieces, and avoid trimmings that resemble candy or food that may tempt a child to eat them. It’s cold outside, and we love our fireplaces. Do not burn wrapping papers in the fireplace and keep your trees away from the fireplace. They can ignite, and the heat from the fireplace dries them out quickly. For additional holiday safety information, contact your local fire department. Sam DiGiovanna is a 37-year fire service veteran. He started with the Los Angeles County Fire Department, served as fire chief at the Monrovia Fire Department and currently serves as chief at the Verdugo Fire Academy in Glendale.
In January 2021, the Board of Supervisors approved a five-year wildlife management agreement with the USDA, which included work plans for the airports. The agreement was retroactive to October 1, 2020, and expired on September 30, 2025.
The director of the Transportation Land Management Agency was given the authority to execute the new cooperative services agreement; the Board of Supervisors’ action did not approve a specific contract. The TLMA director and the USDA will determine whether the contract period will be based on the Federal fiscal year, which runs from October 1 through September 30, the county fiscal year, which is July 1 through June 30, or the calendar year. In no case will the contract period exceed five years. The USDA will be paid $764,838 over the five-year period.
Joe Naiman can be reached at jnaiman@reedermedia.com.
Answers to puzzle on page A-8.
Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna Contributor
By now, most of us have our Christmas Trees up. However, did
Supervisor Gutierrez hands out bags of produce at a distribution event earlier this year. Valley News/Courtesy photo
Valley News/Cottonbro photo (pexels.com)
supposed to conclude November 22, although rain earlier in the week made the track unsuitable for the final scheduled night. The Night of Destruction season thus concluded October 25 after eight race nights.
Hoffarth had 516 Trailer Figure 8 points. Orange resident Rob Multhaupt had the second-place total of 408 points.
“I’m pretty surprised I beat those guys in a minivan,” Hoffarth said. “I guess consistency is key.”
After having occasional Night of Destruction races at the track, Perris Auto Speedway implemented season points in 2015. The 2025 season was Hoffarth’s first in the Trailer Figure 8 class but his third in Night of Destruction races.
“The fun of it is just meeting all of the people and having a good time,” Hoffarth said. Being able to crash into someone with no legal consequences is a contrast from the freeway driving Hoffarth often endures. “At least you get to go and take it out on other people,” he said. Cooperstown, North Dakota, is about 75 miles west of the Minnesota border. The 49-yearold Hoffarth spent his early childhood there after being born in Fargo. The family moved to California in 1987, initially living in Fountain Valley before moving to Wildomar in 1989. Hoffarth attended Elsinore Middle School and Elsinore High School after the family moved to Wildomar. About 20 years ago he moved to San Jacinto.
Professionally Hoffarth owns So Cal Junk Car Removal. “I got
a car that was made for Perris, and my son wanted to race it,” he said.
Hoffarth has three sons. Lane Hoffarth Jr. is now 29, Kyle Hoffarth is 26, and Nick Hoffarth is 23. Nick Hoffarth began driving in the Demo Cross class in 2022. “My middle son, he started driving it, too,” Lane Hoffarth Sr. said.
Hoffarth, who had previously ridden dirt motorcycles but had not raced, began Perris Auto Speedway racing the following year. “We used to do just the Demo Cross one,” he said.
When his business resulted in Hoffarth picking up several minivans in Arizona, approximately half a dozen were converted into Night of Destruction vehicles. The group is now called the “Minivan Mafia”.
The minivan Hoffarth uses for Trailer Figure 8 races is a 2000
Toyota Sienna. For regular Figure 8 races he drives a former Street Stock vehicle he calls a custom built car. “None of it’s factory any more,” he said.
In this year’s final Trailer Figure 8 standings Kyle Hoffarth accumulated 372 position points to share third place with Whittier driver Michael Schattilly. Nick Hoffarth placed seventh with 204 points while Lane Hoffarth Jr. had the eighth-place total of 162 points.
“I hope somebody in the family wins, but I’m not slowing down for them,” Lane Hoffarth Sr. said. “We obviously care about each other, but when it’s racing there’s no rules.”
In one race Hoffarth hit one of his sons in the intersection. A more pleasant 2025 memory was the August 9 Trailer Figure 8 race in which Lane Hoffarth Sr. won,
Lane Hoffarth Jr. finished second, and Kyle Hoffarth took third.
“It’s pretty cool. That doesn’t happen every day,” Lane Hoffarth Sr. said.
Hoffarth also won the May 3, June 14, and September 20 Trailer Figure 8 races.
Multhaupt won the overall Night of Destruction championship with 1,122 points. Hoffarth was second with 1,065 points. “I didn’t even know I was that close,” Hoffarth said.
Riverside driver Austin Kinnane was third in the overall standings with 789 points.
“It’s pretty wild,” Hoffarth said of driving three different classes in one night. “I’m trying to get four classes next year if I can get a Mini Stock.”
The Mini Stocks were added to the Night of Destruction in 2018. Drivers are also allowed to spin, push, hit, and block competitors in the Mini Stock class which utilizes the road course rather than a Figure 8 course or the oval and a red flag may be thrown for safety purposes but the yellow flag is not used. Any 1970 or newer American or foreign twodoor or four-door hardtop car with a four-cylinder engine can be driven in the Mini Stock class provided that it also meets Perris Auto Speedway safety and stock specification standards; sport utility vehicles and high-performance cars are not allowed.
Perris Auto Speedway opened in 1996. “I don’t think anyone else has won a championship with a minivan,” Hoffarth said. Winning the overall Night of Destruction championship next year would thus have additional significance. “That would be cool to win the championship in the 30th year,” Hoffarth said.
(Perris had one racenight in 2020 before the coronavirus outbreak canceled the rest of the season. The track opted not to have an official championship for the 2020 season.)
Hemet resident Larry Wells was Hoffarth’s crew chief this year and also set up the car. Hoffarth’s sons also assisted with some of the work. Hoffarth is engaged to Sylvia Estrada. Long-time friends resulted in several of Hoffarth’s sponsors being in Georgia. Auto Extremes, Bobby James Voodoo Lounge, and Robert Robinson are Hoffarth’s Georgia sponsors. In addition to So Cal Junk Car Removal his California sponsors are Maximum Diesels of San Jacinto and Tremrr Wheels of Riverside.
“I’d just like to thank the people who helped me out this year,” Hoffarth said.
Joe Naiman can be reached at jnaiman@reedermedia.com.
Anza gathers for festive Christmas Tree Lighting celebration
Diane Sieker Staff Writer
Anza Valley families and friends came together Saturday, Dec. 6, at the Community Hall
the annual Anza Christmas Tree Lighting, filling the evening with music, laughter and holiday cheer. The Hamilton/Cottonwood Choir set the tone with a lively
Knöppelåsen invites the community to a special outdoor event, Trail Wanderings & Wonderings, Sunday, December 14 at 10:00 a.m.. This family-friendly gentle one-mile walk offers an opportunity to connect with nature while exploring one of the region’s hidden treasures: the old-growth chaparral at the base of Cahuilla Mountain.
The easy, family-friendly journey will begin at the Old Ranger Station, located off Tripps Flats Rd. in Anza and loop around for one mile, ending up at the same location.
“Living in Anza, we are surrounded by native chaparral - a rugged, beautiful landscape that many may take for granted,” said Knöppelåsen founder Annika Knöppel. “Often misunderstood or overlooked, old-growth chaparral ecosystems are not only stunning but vital to the health of our local environment.”
Through this easy-paced walk, she aims to deepen appreciation
Santa, Mrs. Claus and a spunky elf greet guests at the Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony at the Anza Community Hall Saturday, Dec. 6.
Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo
Sieker Staff Writer
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 CA-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 certified farmers market. Market
JULIE
MALINA GUGEL,
JENNA ORTIZ,
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
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 CA-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 CA-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 951-9236153. If you need an advocate to help with VA benefits, call Ronnie Imel at 951-659-9884.
The Most Excellent Way – A Christ-centered recovery program for all kinds of addiction meets 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 CA-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 951-551-2826.
Free Mobile Health Clinic – Open every third Wednesday of the month from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. No appointment is needed. Uninsured may only be seen in the Anza Community Hall’s parking lot or inside the hall.
Medication Assistance and Treatment for Opioid Dependence – Get treatment for heroin addiction. Transportation to the clinic is provided. For more information, contact Borrego Health’s Anza Community Health Center, 58581 CA-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 CA-371 in Anza. All are welcome.
Living Hope Christian Fellowship Sunday Service –10 a.m. at the Anza Community Hall, 56630 CA-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 951-763-0856.
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 951763-4937 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
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 CA-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, 56630 CA-371, Anza, CA 92539. 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 CA-371 in Anza. For more information, call 951-2824267 or email achageneral@ gmail.com or visit www. anzacommunitybuilding.org. Anza Civic Improvement League – 9 a.m. meets the first Saturday of each month at the Little Red Schoolhouse. The league maintains Minor Park and the Little Red School House, which are both available to rent for events. No government funds are allowed; the membership pays the bills – $10 a person, $18 family or $35 business membership. For more information, visit www. anzacivic.org
ANZA VALLEY OUTLOOK
The twinkle that started it all: How electric lights changed Christmas
Diane Sieker Staff Writer
Twinkling from living room trees to neighborhood light shows, electric Christmas lights are so entwined with the season it’s easy to forget how new the tradition is - and how deliberate its beginnings were.
The story starts with two familiar names: Thomas Edison and his colleague Edward H. Johnson. Edison, who perfected a practical incandescent bulb in 1879, is credited with stringing electric lights outside his Menlo Park laboratory around Christmas 1880, a publicity-minded glimpse of what electric illumination could do.
It was Edward H. Johnson, however, who is commonly credited with the first electric Christmas tree inside a home. On Dec. 22, 1882, the vice president of Edison’s company “handwired 80 red, white, and blue light bulbs” and wound them around a revolving tree in his
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 Nov. 30 through Dec. 6. Nov. 30
Unlawful entry - 000 block Cooper Cienega Truck Trl./ Homestead Rd., Cahuilla Public disturbance - 3900 block Anza Rd., Anza Area check - 5800 block McArthur Rd., Anza 911 hangup from cellphone4100 block Gassner Rd., Anza
Dec. 1
Trespassing - 1000 block Hog Lake, Anza, report taken
Danger to self/other - 6100 block Covered Wagon Trl./Broken Wheel Trl., Anza, report taken
Suspicious person - address undefined, Anza
Dec. 2
Resist arrest - 5300 block St. Hwy. 371, Anza, arrest made
Vandalism - 5300 block St. Hwy. 371, Anza
Vandalism - 5300 block St. Hwy. 371, Anza, report taken
Public disturbance - 3900 block El Toro Rd., Anza
Public assist - 4100 block Terwilliger Rd., Anza
Public intoxication - 5200 block Cahuilla Rd., Cahuilla, arrest made
Dec. 3
Fraud - 4800 block Lake Canyon Dr., Lake Riverside
Dec. 4
Trespassing - 4400 block Terwilliger Rd., Anza
Emergency notification - address withheld, Anza
Miscellaneous criminal - 5700
block Mitchell Rd., Anza
Dec. 5
Suicide threat - address withheld, Anza
Unknown trouble - 3900 block Anza Rd., Anza, report taken 911 call from business - 5700 block Mitchell Rd., Anza
Miscellaneous criminal - 3900 block Anza Rd., Anza, report taken
Harassing phone calls - address withheld, Anza
Dec. 6
Unknown trouble - address
New York parlor - an image that must have felt like holiday magic in an era that still used candles on evergreens. However, adoption of the festive advance was slow. Early electric lighting was expensive and electricity itself made many people uneasy. For decades electric displays remained a novelty for the wealthy, for department-store windows and for electricity advocates who used seasonal displays to promote the new technology.
The National Christmas Tree lighting ceremony - begun in 1923 in Washington, D.C. - was, in part, organized to encourage Americans to accept and adopt electric lighting.
Commercial availability followed technological and industrial steps forward. By the 1890s and early 1900s manufacturers such as General Electric began producing miniature lamps and kits designed specifically for trees and displays, turning a hand-wired parlour curiosity into a consumer product. One historian notes that early commercial strings used carbon-filament bulbs and were sold in multiples of sockets suited for the tiny lamps.
The 20th century brought wider electrification, lower costs and competing innovations: colored bulbs, plastic-coated bulbs for safety, and eventually, in the late 20th and early 21st centuries,
LED technology that slashes energy use and extends bulb life. Those technical shifts helped move lights from occasional ornament to civic spectacle - whole towns and public trees now glow for weeks each year. There’s also a thread of safety and commerce in the tale. Candle-lit trees caused fires; electric lights were sold as a safer alternative and marketed that way. Industry, civic boosters and advertisers all nudged the tradition into the mainstream, and by midcentury the sight of a lit tree or a brightly outlined house was a familiar part of the season. Today, whether a family favors a modest string of colored bulbs or a synchronized LED show choreographed to pop holiday hits, every strand traces back to a few curious entrepreneurs and inventors who saw in bright little bulbs a way to celebrate - and to sell - a brighter, safer holiday. As the Library of Congress puts it, that first hand-wired tree was “presenting a most picturesque and uncanny aspect” - and the world has been brightening December ever since.
Sources: Library of Congress; History.com; Smithsonian Magazine; Wired; Time. Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia.com.
The Sheriff’s Blotter enables residents to know what criminal activity is occurring in their communities. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo undefined, Aguanga Assist other department - address undefined, Anza Disoriented subject - 3800 block Contreras Rd., Anza Disoriented subject - address
undefined, Anza No assumption of criminal guilt or affiliation should be drawn from the content provided in the Sheriff’s Blotter. Residents with information
Anza Electric Cooperative provides gifts for the children of the community
AEC understands the struggles that families can face during this time of year. With this awareness, the organization called upon its close-knit community to help support families experiencing difficult times. AEC expressed pride in the neighbors who showed compassion and contributed donations, making it possible to bring joy to 53 children on Christmas morning. The benevolence of the community, AEC noted, demonstrates that the true meaning of Christmas is alive in local neighborhoods.
AEC employees also expe -
rienced the spirit of the season by adopting 14 families, including 32 children who received gifts this year. Motivated by the Seventh Cooperative Principle, “Concern for Community,” employees enjoyed shopping for the children and taking part in the effort.
AEC also expressed gratitude to the organizations that have provided similar assistance in the past. For further information, visit www.anzaelectric.org or call (951) 763-4333. Submitted by Anza Electric Cooperative.
AEC employees adopted 14 families this year, including 32 children that will receive gifts. Valley News/Courtesy photo
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.
The Christmas lights enjoyed today have a fascinating history spanning over 140 years.
Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo
LIGHTING from page B-1
gifts. Erinne Roscoe of KOYT 97.1 LPFM Community Radio delighted guests with a spinning prize wheel, where every turn brought a winning surprise.
Santa and Mrs. Claus, joined by a cheerful elf, greeted children and handed out candy canes as young visitors shared their carefully whispered Christmas wishes.
“This event was a great start to the holidays,” said Anza resident David McCracken. “It was our first time and we loved it. Everyone seemed to be having a wonderful time.”
As night settled over the valley, representatives from the Anza Electric Cooperative gathered the crowd for the much-anticipated lighting of the trees. With the flip of a switch, colorful lights shimmered to life across two towering cedar trees in front of the Hall, drawing smiles and applause as the beloved local tradition once again lit up the start of the holi-
day season. Many of Anza’s charitable organizations come together each year to organize the celebration, which continues to grow in size and spirit.
The Anza Community Hall succeeds with the support of the community. Hall board meetings are open to the public and everyone is encouraged to attend.
Members of the Anza Community Hall enjoy event discounts and support the Hall with their dues and ticket purchases.
Anyone interested in becoming a member of the Anza Community Building, Inc., or to discover upcoming events can call Pebbles Lewis at (951) 760-9244, visit the Hall’s website at https://anzacommunitybuilding.org/ or their Facebook page https://www.facebook. com/groups/337754646415866
The Anza Community Hall is located at 56630 CA-371 in downtown Anza. Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia.com.
Cookie decorating is a favorite activity at the Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony at the Anza Community Hall
Saturday, Dec. 6. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photos
Santa comforts a first-time Christmas visitor at the Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony at the Anza Community Hall Saturday, Dec. 6.
Little Clowey enjoys precious dad time at the Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony at the Anza Community Hall.
KOYT 97.1
LPFM Community Radio producer Erinne Roscoe announces winners as they spin the wheel at the Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony at the Anza Community Hall.
Vendors offer their holiday treats outside the building at the Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony at the Anza Community Hall.
The Hamilton/Cottonwood Choir sets the tone with a lively performance of seasonal favorites at the Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony at the Anza Community Hall.
The pajama contest is a real crowd-pleaser at the Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony at the Anza Community Hall Saturday, Dec. 6.
Representatives from the Anza Electric Cooperative switch on the lights amid enthusiastic cheers at the Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony at the Anza Community Hall.
California among states most vulnerable to identity theft & fraud
Adam McCann WalletHub Financial Writer
In recent years, significant data breaches have compromised many Americans’ personal information. U.S. consumers reported losing 25% more money due to fraud last year compared to the previous year, totaling nearly $12.5 billion in losses nationwide.
This year, a major data breach involving AT&T has exposed sensitive information from nearly 86 million customer accounts, including over 44 million Social Security numbers in plain text. The leaked data, now circulating on the dark web, affects a wide range of individuals and poses significant risks of identity theft and fraud.
Each new year brings new strategies by identity thieves and fraudsters, but older schemes, such as tech support scams and fake IRS calls, still abound. Some Americans are more susceptible than others to such crimes, however
In order to determine who is most likely to be exposed to and affected by identity theft and fraud, WalletHub compared the 50 states and the District of Columbia across 15 key metrics. Our data set ranges from identity theft complaints per capita to the average loss due to fraud.
“In an age where we have sensitive data online in a multitude of places, we risk falling victim to identity theft and fraud whenever there’s a data breach. Living in a state with robust legal protections against identity theft and fraud, such as identity theft passports
and cybersecurity task forces, can decrease your risk of falling victim to these crimes, though staying vigilant and protecting yourself online is still the most important,” said Chip Lupo, WalletHub analyst.
In-depth look at the places most vulnerable to identity theft and fraud
Florida Despite being a vibrant and populous state, Florida remains notably vulnerable to identity theft and fraud. One of the big reasons for this is a lack of suitable laws protecting against these crimes. For example, Florida doesn’t have an identity theft passport program, which is a way to help prove your identity if it gets stolen, and the state doesn’t have laws against spyware on computers either.
Florida had 528 identity theft complaints and 2,163 fraud complaints for every 100,000 residents last year – the highest and second-highest rates in the nation, respectively. It also had the fifth-highest median loss due to fraud, at over $500.
California California ranks second in the nation for exposure to identity theft and fraud, in large part because its residents have the fourth-highest average loss due to identity theft, at over $28,000. Residents also have the third-highest median loss due to fraud, at $542.
In addition, Californians also lost an average of over $71,000 to fraud involving cryptocurrency, the fourth-highest amount in the country.
For every 100,000 residents, California had 356 identity theft complaints and 1,291 fraud complaints last year, the eighth-most and 18th-most in the country, respectively. In addition, California has the fifth-highest fraud rate for e-commerce when considering shipping addresses and the seventh-highest for billing addresses located in the state.
While California does have most of the essential laws necessary for addressing identity theft and fraud, there is still room for improvement. For example, the state still lacks an identity theft passport program to help people prove their identities after an incident.
Georgia Georgia ranks third for vulnerability to identity theft and fraud, and one contributing factor is that it has a relatively high number of people arrested for fraud per capita. It also has the sixth-highest and fifth-highest rate of fraud for e-commerce, based on shipping addresses and billing addresses located in the state, respectively.
Although laws in Georgia are comprehensive in most areas relating to identity theft and fraud, the state lacks an identity theft passport program that would assist victims in verifying their identities after an incident.
Finally, Georgia had 2,108 fraud complaints and 517 identity theft complaints for every 100,000 residents last year, the third-most and second-most in the nation, respectively. The state also had the 15th-highest average loss amount due to identity theft, at over $13,000.
Quick tips for avoiding identity theft & fraud
Emphasize email security:
Using strong passwords for all financial accounts is important, but you may not realize how essential it is to focus on email. Your primary email address will likely be your username and means of resetting your password on other websites. If it’s vulnerable, all of your other accounts will be, too.
As a result, use an exceptionally secure password and establish two-step verification for this account.
Sign up for credit monitoring: Credit monitoring is the best way to keep tabs on your credit report. It provides peace of mind through alerts about significant changes to your file, including potential signs of identity theft. WalletHub offers 24/7 monitoring of your TransUnion credit report if you sign up for a free account, and you can also get advanced identity theft protection with WalletHub Premium.
Leverage account alerts & update contact info: Setting up online management for all of your financial accounts (e.g., credit cards, loans, Social Security), and keeping your phone number, email address, and street address up to date will make them harder for identity thieves to hijack. Establishing alerts for changes to your contact info and other suspicious account activity will safeguard you.
Use Common Sense Online: Don’t open emails you don’t recognize. Don’t download files from untrustworthy sources. Don’t send account numbers and passwords via email or messenger applications. And don’t enter financial or personal information into websites that lack the “https” prefix in their URLs. For more tips and information, check out WalletHub’s Identity Theft Guide, https://wallethub. com/edu/identity-theft/17120 Submitted by WalletHub.
FBI releases ‘Reported Flash Mob Shoplifting Incidents: 2020-2024’ special report
CLARKSBURG, West Virginia – On Dec. 3, the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting Program released “Reported Flash Mob Shopli fting Incidents: 2020-2024” on the FBI’s Crime Data Explorer. Flash Mob, also known as Flash Rob, is a form of shoplifting that occurs when an organized group, usually teenagers, collectively steal from one retail store. Flash mob shoplifting is not
for these often underappreciated habitats and foster a sense of wonder and respect for the natural world that surrounds residents in the Anza Valley.
Trail Wanderings & Wonderings is designed for all ages and levels of ability, offering a relaxed, informative stroll along a quiet dirt road through this ancient landscape. The walk is a chance for attendees to slow down, ask questions, and gain a deeper understanding of the plants, animals, and seasonal changes that define this unique ecosystem.
“Whether you’re a long-time resident or new to the area, you’ll be guided through the magic of the chaparral while learning about its importance and how it supports local wildlife,” Knöppel added.
Why Attend?
Old-growth chaparral is more than just a scenic backdrop. It provides critical habitat for local
a specific offense for law enforcement agencies to report in the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS); however, the versatility of the data collection can be used to compile data that characterize as a flash mob.
For this report, the FBI analyzed shoplifting offenses reported at a location defined as a store, with six or more offenders, and no more than one business re-
wildlife, conserves water, and helps maintain the balance of thr regional ecosystem. Yet, despite its importance, this natural treasure is often underappreciated. By joining this event, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the environmental benefits of chaparral ecosystems and how they contribute to the broader health of the region.
“At Knöppelåsen, we are passionate about sharing the beauty and value of our environment with the community. Whether you’re a long-time resident of Anza or a first-time visitor, this walk will offer a fresh perspective on the landscape we live in,” Knöppel said. “All are welcome. Please bring your curiosity, comfortable walking shoes and a sense of adventure. There is no need to RSVP, as participation is free.
To attend, take St. Hwy. 371, turn onto Cary Rd. north, and continue as it becomes Tripp Flats Rd. for 1.8 miles. Keep an eye out for the Forest Service sign mark-
ported as a victim over the 5-year period of 2020 through 2024. T he data shows more flash mob shoplifting incidents were reported in 2024 than in 2020, although there was not a continuous year-over-year increase. Offenders participating in reported flash mob shoplifting incidents stole more than $8,000,000 worth of goods and destroyed more than $51,000 worth of property.
ing the trail to Cahuilla Mountain, turn left, and drive another 0.9 miles to the Old Ranger Station.
For more information, please contact Annika Knöppel at (951) 595-5930 or email admin@knoppelasen.org
Clothes/furs were the most targeted stolen property in reported flash mob shoplifting incidents. Flash mob shoplifting incidents were more likely to involve weapons or force than non-flash mob shoplifting incidents, and victims were more likely to be injured in flash mob shoplifting incidents than in non-flash mob shoplifting incidents.
More than 3,600 people were arrested in connection with
“We look forward to sharing a peaceful and inspiring morning with you as we explore the wonders of old-growth chaparral,” said Knöppel.
About Knöppelåsen
reported flash mob shoplifting incidents over the examined 5-year period. Although these crimes represent a small portion of all shoplifting incidents, the results can be dangerous to individuals and result in financial harm to businesses. Better understanding the events can help law enforcement, and businesses, deter these thefts.
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
Knöppelåsen is a community-focused nonprofit organization dedicated to environmental education and fostering a deep connection between people and the natural world. Through guided hikes, educational events and outdoor activities, Knöppelåsen works to engage people in meaningful conversations about nature conservation, local ecosystems, and the beauty of the Anza Valley region.
B USINESS D IRECTORY
Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia.com.
Valley News/Tima Miroshnichenko photo (pexels.com)
HIKING from page B-1
Holiday family craft and game night brings joy to Railroad Canyon community
LAKE ELSINORE – Railroad Canyon Elementary School welcomed families and community members on Friday, Dec. 5 for its annual Holiday Family Craft and Game Night, a free seasonal celebration that filled the school with festive cheer, creativity, and community spirit.
From 5 to 7 p.m., the school’s multipurpose room and surrounding outdoor area were transformed into a winter-themed wonderland. Guests entering the event were greeted by massive holiday-themed inflatables displayed both inside and outside the campus, creating a magical, picture-perfect atmosphere. The exterior of the school shimmered under snowflake projector lights, casting playful patterns across the building and lighting the way for families as they arrived.
Inside the multipurpose room, children and families enjoyed complimentary crafts, games, and photos with Santa, all provided
at no cost. To make the evening even more festive, three local food trucks—Kona Ice, a popular funnel cake vendor, and a local Mexican food truck—offered delicious meals and treats. Families were able to enjoy their food comfortably at the indoor and outdoor seating areas arranged around the event space.
The night featured five holiday craft stations, each offering two to four themed projects. Children enthusiastically created snowflakes, Chri stmas trees, candy canes, gingerbread characters, elves, festive gift bags, and a variety of snowmen crafts. Tables were filled with glitter, ribbons, markers, paint, and holiday stickers, and students proudly displayed their creations to friends and family.
Adding to the cozy holiday atmosphere, the school played seasonal music throughout the event. Inside the multipurpose room, families gathered to watch a beloved children’s Christmas
movie projected on a large screen, giving parents and children a warm, shared moment to relax and enjoy the magic of the season.
The event drew a wonderful turnout from families and local community members. Parents connected with one another while children moved excitedly between crafts, games, food trucks, and photo opportunities—each moment contributing to an evening full of joy, celebration, and togetherness.
“We are absolutely thrilled with the turnout,” organizers shared. “Seeing so many families creating memories, laughing, and celebrating the season is exactly what this event is meant to inspire. We’re already looking forward to next year’s celebration.”
Railroad Canyon Elementary School, located at 1300 Mill Street in Lake Elsinore, extends its heartfelt gratitude to the volunteers, staff, and local vendors who helped bring this magical night
Kathryn Newport Middle School student engineers sweep 1st and 2nd place spots in regional MESA Roller Coaster Challenge
MENIFEE – Kathryn Newport Middle School (KNMS) in Menifee is celebrating an unprecedented achievement after its student teams secured both First and Second Place in the highly competitive 2025 University of California, Riverside (UCR) Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement (MESA) Roller Coaster Challenge. The competition featured over 170 submissions from middle schools across Riverside County and Southern California. The grand prize for both winning teams is a trip to the prestigious Disney Imagineering Campus to meet the creators who design and build Disney rides, followed by a Park Hopper day at Disneyland, scheduled for December.
The winning students are: 1st Place (Team Solar Storm): Claire M., Tegan P., Emily S., and Fenix S.; and 2nd Place (Team Lilo & Stitch): Isabella D., Nia E., Nadine M., and Talia W. KNMS recognized this accomplishment as a profound reflection of the students’ hard work and the power of the MESA program.
Principal Jon Mitchem stated, "At Kathryn Newport Middle School, we take great pride in the way our students engage with learning, explore their potential, and push themselves to new heights. Our commitment to providing a high-quality STEM education is seen most clearly through our MESA program. MESA means belonging to a team that values curiosity and excellence, and it reflects the pride we have in showcasing the talents of our school community. This accomplishment reflects our commitment to equity, ensuring that every student, regardless of background, can access experiences that prepare them for high-demand fields."
Dressed in their holiday best, Railroad Canyon Elementary School teachers, from left to right, Mrs. Rosa LugoTrujillo, Ms. Holly Boytim, Mr. Mauricio Guido, Mrs. Lori Kame, and Mrs. Laura Gonzalez, take a moment and pose for the camera. Valley News/Courtesy photos
Families take part in decorating paper Christmas trees during the craft and game night at Railroad Canyon Elementary School on Friday, Dec. 5.
Family, students and staff fill the multipurpose room at Railroad Canyon Elementary School during the craft and game night. to life—and to the community, whose support and enthusiasm make events like this so special.
Submitted by teacher Holly Boytim, Railroad Canyon Elementary School.
KNMS MESA Team Solar Storm members (L-R) Tegan P., Claire M., Emily S., and Fenix S. proudly display their First Place certificates in the 2025 UCR MESA Roller Coaster Challenge.
KNMS MESA Team Lilo & Stitch members (L-R) Nadine M., Nia E., Isabella D., and Talia W. stand next to their prize-winning, beach-themed roller coaster, which secured Second Place in the regional competition.
Team Solar Storm display their Roller Coaster Challenge submission.
Team Lilo & Stitch show off their Roller Coaster Challenge submission.
EDUCATION
Murrieta Valley students honored in November
Diane A. Rhodes
Special to Valley News
The Murrieta/Wildomar Chamber of Commerce Student of the Month program held its most recent recognition breakfast at the Murrieta Valley USD Early Learning Center on Nov. 20. Emcee Mary Walters welcomed everyone to the breakfast and explained that the program, founded by Sally Myers of BMW Management/Sizzler restaurants, celebrates and honors outstanding students who make a significant difference in their schools and community.
The organization’s mission is to acknowledge college and trade school bound seniors for their character, their love of learning and their commitment to academics in addition to their participation in athletics, school activities, community service and/or their ability to persevere and overcome difficult life circumstances in a setting that honors God, country, family, community and free enterprise.
Large tote bags filled with gifts, certificates of recognition, and more were donated by the program’s sponsors to the award recipients. Each student was invited to the podium to share their personal story, past challenges and future goals with a room full of supporters that included principals, teachers, peers and family members, as well as community and school district dignitaries.
November’s students of the month are Murrieta Canyon Academy’s Amora Ovalles, Murrieta Mesa High School’s Fionn Strath, Murrieta Valley High School’s Thomas Hao, Oak Grove School’s Desiree Page, Springs Charter School’s Ashenett Castro Sanchez and Vista Murrieta High School’s Nomaan Maqbool.
Amora Ovalles
Murrieta Canyon Academy Principal Matt Bean said he was honored to recognize Amora. After a medical condition necessitated her having to be homeschooled during her freshman year, she enrolled at MCA at the end of her sophomore year, determined to get her social and academic life back on track.
“She maintains an optimistic attitude and approaches each day as an opportunity for personal growth, inspiring those around her with a positive mindset,” Bean said. Amora is involved with Leadership and is co-president of the Bring Change to Mind club. She is on the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council and has represented MCA at community events.
Amora said treatment for the rare bone disease she was diagnosed with as a freshman put her significantly behind at school and completely lost about which steps to take next. “My family and I made the decision to try Murrieta Canyon Academy because of its small supportive environment,” Amora said. “I immediately knew this school was the perfect fit for me and my particular needs.” When she initially enrolled at MCA, she was told she might need a fifth year of high school to complete all her graduation requirements, but she worked hard and was highly motivated and is on track to graduate on time. She plans to pursue a career in rheumatology.
“I want to help kids like me get diagnosed and bring direction back to their lives,” Amora said.
from page B-6
Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Root commented that "this incredible success by our Kathryn Newport students demonstrates the amazing project-based learning taking place in our MESA program. Seeing our students apply real-world science and engineering skills to earn the top two spots in such a major regional competition confirms that we are preparing the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers.
of the
Fionn Strath
Murrieta Mesa High School
Principal Scott Richards introduced Fionn as someone who “might love school more than any other student I have personally met in my life, and I don’t say that lightly.” He is one of the leaders in the school’s medical pathway, planning to major in biochemistry and hopefully go into internal medicine after medical school. He is in the top five of his senior class, serves as Model UN co-president, Interact Club president, is a member of National Honor Society and California Scholarship Federation, is founder of the Chess Club and is a member of the Principal’s Advisory Council. He plays on the varsity tennis and soccer teams and attends Japanese school every Saturday in San Diego. Since the age of five, he has attended summer school in Japan to continue his cultural awareness. “The biggest lesson I have learned is the importance of exploring interests and pursuing passions,” Fionn said. He said trying to find fun things to do when he was younger led him to playing video games and scrolling on TikTok. “Excessiveness in these things took me away from exploring things,” he said. When he returned to sports, it led to him doing well in everything he pursued. “I learned that I don’t do the things that I do because I am Fionn Strath but that I am Fionn Strath because of the things that I decided to do,” he said. Teacher Stephen Chitaroff said, “Fionn has helped me to find confidence in this generation of students through his daily commitment to living an exceptional life.”
Thomas Hao Murrieta Valley High School
Principal Stephen Diephouse said, “Thomas’ accomplishments are nothing short of extraordinary.” Academically, he is among the most elite students at MVHS and is pursuing a full IB Diploma. He has completed
We are immensely proud of them and of all of the hard work and passion that Ms. Wood puts into this project."
Board President J. Kyle Root added that "the Board is thrilled to celebrate these Mustangs and their groundbreaking achievement. This dual victory highlights the value of investing in high-quality STEM pathways that inspire creativity and excellence, ensuring our students have the competitive edge needed for high-demand careers. Their
the CTE engineering pathway and is just one course shy of completing the CTE computer science pathway. He has taken numerous AP courses and Mt. San Jacinto College courses. He is a dedicated athlete currently on the varsity tennis team and previously on the cross-country team. He is also a standout member of the school’s competitive robotics team. Thomas said a key takeaway from his high school career happened this year when he was searching for a robotics team project. He discovered that education isn’t just about getting the transcript that helps you get to college to earn a degree. “Education is about the impact that we have on the world,” he said. That led to him choosing a project he called Bottles for Brilliance where he recycled plastic drinking water bottles found on campus and used the money to fund the education of a girl in Uganda. He said turning trash into treasure that would affect someone’s life forever was very rewarding. “If you put your mind to something, you can make unseemingly impossible things happen,” Thomas said.
Desiree Page Oak Grove School Director of Education Athene Banche said Desiree has come a long way in the short time she has been in the program. “She has put in so much effort and really focuses on being a strong leader and is truly deserving of this award,” Banche said. She said fellow staff members and teachers talk about the impact Desiree has on students and peers and that when she commits to something she sticks with it and follows through, always giving it her all. Although she’s faced struggles in her life, Desiree has learned there is a strength in independence and has persevered. She plans to pursue a career in the healthcare field. “I’ve been through a lot in my 18 years of life and it’s an honor to be standing here before
trip to Disney Imagineering is a well-deserved recognition of their dedication."
MESA Advisor Jessica Wood was instrumental in leading the teams to success. "Leading the students in this competition was such a fun and inspiring experience! They dove right in, using physics, engineering, and creativity to design unique roller coasters with imaginative stories and videos. Watching their teamwork, problem-solving, and excitement grow throughout the process was
you today,” Desiree said. She explained there was a time when she thought things would not get better but learned that “everything happens for a reason, but you can recover.” Struggling with depression for the past five years, Desiree said she is just beginning to see that not everything is gray and gloomy. “Now I can see that everything has a color,” she said. Her homeroom and math teacher Jason Lagardere recalled that when he was Desiree’s English teacher during summer school she shared some emotional, passionate poems and excelled in the study of Greek mythology. Ashenett Castro Sanchez Springs Charter School’s Temecula Student Center Principal Valerie Walker said Ashenett, who has attended the school since kindergarten, was her second-grade student. Walker said the outstanding senior describes herself as the oldest of four and someone who holds herself to high standards as the daughter of hard-working parents who have always encouraged her to pursue opportunities. She plans to attend San Diego Mesa College to earn a certificate in fashion design and hopes to build a career as a tailor or seamstress, using her creativity, skills and love of handcraft work. Ashenett is a proud Jehovah’s Witness. “I had some struggles when I was growing up,” she said. After negative comments about being overly extroverted when she was young, she retreated into her shell and started skipping recess and lunch, preferring to stay inside with her teacher during those times.
Teacher Kristina Valencia said, “Being a K-12 campus, we have had the honor of watching Ashenett grow from a curious child into the remarkable and responsible senior we celebrate today. Ashenett is the kind of student every teacher hopes to have—responsible, grounded, and guided by a strong sense of morals and values. In our classroom she is
incredible," said Ms. Wood. The students themselves shared their pride in the rigorous competition and the joy of collaboration.
Tegan P., a member of the winning Solar Storm team, expressed the excitement of the challenge: "We knew the competition was tough, but focusing on the physics and working together to overcome every building challenge made the win feel completely earned.
The Disney trip is just the perfect reward for our whole team." Nadine M., from the second-place
often the voice of reason among her peers. She is dependable and she represents our school with grace and authenticity.”
Nomaan Maqbool Vista Murrieta High School Principal Celeste Scallion explained that Nomaan was unable to attend the ceremony because he is currently participating in a clinical trial aimed at improving treatment options for individuals with impaired vision in Philadelphia. “His involvement in this important work speaks to his courage, his hope and his unwavering commitment to helping others,” Scallion said. “While certain limitations kept him from participating in traditional activities, he chose instead to redefine what is possible. With creativity, motivation and intellect, he has found meaningful ways to lead, serve and inspire on campus.” Nomaan has been a dedicated member of concert band for three years as a clarinetist. He serves as president of the Healthy Eating Club and has served as a special education tutor, offering both academic guidance and genuine encouragement. Beyond VMHS, Nomaan serves on Vanderbilt University’s student advisory panel, working to create equitable spaces for blind and low-vision students nationwide. He also contributes locally as a student for the Riverside County Office of Education’s Community Engagement Initiative, helping to strengthen partnerships and to improve special education curriculum. Teacher Sarah Hartman said of Nomaan, “His empathy, his insight, remind us all, students and educators alike, that accessibility is not simply an accommodation—it is a shared responsibility. He has been a leader in showing us what that truly means.”
For more information or to participate in the program, please contact Rhonda LaVigne at 951696-1600, ext. 1026 or rlavigne@ murrieta.k12.ca.us
Lilo & Stitch Team, reflected on the process: "Participating in and building our marble roller coaster out of paper was a long, challenging process; however, it was nonetheless one of the most fun experiences I've ever had! I had a blast collaborating with my teammates to bring our captivating ideas and creative dreams to life. I couldn't be more ecstatic to be a finalist for the MESA Roller Coaster Competition."
Submitted by Menifee Unified School District.
Recipients
Murrieta/Wildomar Chamber of Commerce Student of the Month award for November are, from left, Thomas Hao, Amora Ovalles, Desiree Page, Ashenett Castro Sanchez, and Fionn Strath. Not pictured, Nomaan Maqbool. Valley News/John P. Hess photo
COASTER
Noli Indian School students honor Tribal Elders
Each year, students and staff at Noli Indian School collaborate to present a potluck lunch at their campus, “Honoring Our Elders.”
The afternoon of singing, dancing, and delicious food brought out the best among the students as they tended to all aspects of the event on Nov. 24.
The school is located on the Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians reservation and currently serves nearly 100 students in grades 6-12. Principal Donovan Post welcomed everyone and said he really liked seeing the student involvement that was evident throughout the event.
After a blessing from Damon Miranda, students lined up in the cafeteria to pick up plated lunches of turkey, ham, macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes and gravy, rolls, and a variety of tamales. Tanya Briones-Rivera and Camille Diaz stayed busy filling the plates that the gloved students delivered to the Elders.
Seated under the shade-covered table area off the campus’s grassy quad, seniors visited with
each other and enjoyed the performances. Marian Chacon said, “I think it’s great that the students show their appreciation that we came.” She added that it gives Elders the chance to meet with others if they wanted to do so, but hadn’t been given the opportunity.
Monica Madrigal, from Cahuilla, was invited to attend the event. “I think it’s important to do this for the Elders; to share and preserve our culture,” she said. Her husband, Bill Madrigal, used to teach culture and language at Noli. He shared stories about how bird songs came about, explaining that the bird songs come from the beginning. “These songs were given to us, and we carried them forward; we didn’t change them,” he said. “We will sing songs for the Elders who are present and those who are no longer with us.”
He added that the songs are powerful and are sung for a reason. “They give us strength and the power to care for each other,” Madrigal said. “I sing them at gatherings like this to tell the story from the beginning and carry them into the future. We have
songs for everything to keep us strong and going forward.”
Romell Mojado was enjoying the afternoon with her cousins Connie Briones and Sharon Modesto and her friend Raina Maciel.
“I think it’s great that the kids are so involved,” Mojado said. “Even though they are coming from all different Tribes, they come together and respect each other’s cultures.”
Maciel has served on the Noli School Board in the past. Her granddaughter, Elizabeth Lehuede, now attends the school.
“This is the first opportunity I’ve had to come to this event,” she said.
Briones enjoyed the bird singing and seeing the girls dancing. Modesto agreed and added that the food was good. English teacher Summer Herrera provided spare bird skirts for any students who had not brought their own that day.
Bill Madrigal’s Creation stories and songs continued as he said, “We’re all the same people, same culture; we have a lot in common. If you know one story, you can relate to others.”
Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians Special to Valley News
Valley News/Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians photos
Elders enjoy lunch as Noli Indian School students ensure they have everything they need during the Honoring Our Elders event, Nov. 24.
Noli English teacher Summer Herrera welcomes Elders to campus as Damon Miranda prepares to give the blessing.
Students serve up baked goods and other desserts during the Honoring Our Elders luncheon at Noli Indian School.
Bird skirts are available for students who want to join the bird singers and dance while Elders continue their lunch.
Bill Madrigal and his wife Monica, participate in bird singing and dancing at the Honoring Our Elders lunch at Noli Indian School, Nov. 24.
Noli senior Edgar Gladin, left, joins his fellow students in delivering plates of turkey, mashed potatoes, tamales and more to the Elders seated at the campus’ quad area.
Noli students dance with bird singers from the Pechanga Band of Indians and Cahuilla’s Bill Madrigal during the Honoring Our Elders event.
Tanya Briones-Rivera and Camille Diaz chat with Noli Principal Donovan Post as they prepare plates for the students to deliver to the Elders.
Soboba Elders Romell Mojado, Connie Briones, Sharon Modesto, and Raina Maciel are treated to lunch at Noli Indian School, Nov. 24.
OPINION
As 2026 approaches, we invite you to help sustain local news
Julie
Reeder Publisher
As we look to 2026, our team at Village News and Valley News is filled with genuine excitement and gratitude, and yet we are at a pivotal point. For nearly three decades, we have worked to offer a trusted source of independent, local journalism in a world that grows noisier, more polarized, and more confusing by the day. I was amazed at the number of stories I saw this week that are just clearly created to entertain and get traffic at the expense of the truth. We will never do that.
You can trust our stories to be as accurate as possible, and yet, even we grow weary as we work day and night, often without compensation. Our mission has not changed. Our commitment has never wavered. When people ask, “Why does real, local journalism still matter?” our answer is simple: because truth matters, community matters, and people matter. And that is why we continue to do what we do, whether it’s delivered by print or digital formats. And, when it comes to free speech, we invite all opinions to participate.
The year ahead holds tremendous hope for us. We plan to continue providing even more award-winning reporting and meaningful coverage of our community—from the inspiring good news to the hard news that helps keep government accountable. We cover traffic accidents and fires, yes, but we also highlight innovation in our schools, spotlight local nonprofits doing lifesaving work, celebrate youth accomplishments, and share the stories
of our businesses and neighbors who make our communities special. Local news is not only about crisis; it is also about community, dignity, belonging, and providing a proper history of our town.
One of the greatest privileges of our work is helping develop the next generation of thinkers, writers, and journalists. Every year, our newsroom welcomes and pays young interns and student contributors eager to learn real-w orld reporting, critical thinking, ethical journalism, and the importance of local involvement. We work diligently to help them earn and experience success. Some go on to communications careers. Some go into public service. All leave with a deeper knowledge of where they live and how their community works. This is not simply an internship; it is a public service in itself.
But like most independent journalism organizations nationwide, we face very real challenges. We are making due with a fraction of the staff we’ve enjoyed in prior years. The cost of reporting continues to rise. The
demands on our newsroom and administration grow every year. And we simply cannot sustain this essential mission alone. To continue doing award-winning journalism, we urgently need the means to expand our business, including attracting more subscribers, advertisers, and volunteers. We need to hire more employees and purchase updated equipment. We need salespeople, writers, photographers, videographers, administrative help, bookkeeping support, and affordable financing. We would love the resources to hire the staff that our expanding responsibilities now require, even to do more digital.
We could use generous donations now, and in 2026, we will have a limited number of fundraising efforts to help raise money to finance our operation and grow our newsroom. Our goal is to raise several hundred thousand dollars to secure the vital infrastructure, personnel, and tools necessary to continue serving this region with excellence. These funds are not for extravagance; they are for survival and future growth. They are for the community. If you believe in independent journalism—true journalism—in an age of misinformation and disinformation, we invite you to partner with us. If you have the means to donate, I would be honored to speak with you. If you own a business, consider advertising with us— local advertising supports local journalism in addition to being able to expose you to hundreds of thousands of loyal local residents. If you or someone you know has a few hours a week to volunteer at our office, we would be grateful for your time. Any contribution, large or small, helps ensure that future generations inherit a stronger, smarter, more informed community.
We love what we do—and we love this community. We believe that trustworthy information is a cornerstone of a healthy democracy, and your partnership keeps that foundation strong. Thank you for supporting us, believing in us, and helping us continue this calling. Here’s to a bold, hopeful, community-centered 2026.
A message from Yxstian Gutierrez, District 5 County Supervisor
Dear Residents of District 5, This week, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the back-
bone of our great district: volunteers. December 5 is International Volunteer Day, a day that many hard-working volunteers are celebrated and thanked for their sincere efforts in uplifting our community. In a time of holidays and joyful spirits, it’s important to acknowledge all the volunteers who spread holiday cheer to those who need it most. Here in the County of Riverside, we have many ways for people to contribute their time to support our community. A few to highlight are through our very
More than a feeling
Zachary
Elliott Special to Valley News
Have you ever stopped to think about the word Thanksgiving? It’s really two words combined — Thanks and Giving. At its core, it’s the blend of gratitude and generosity. Both of these words should be deeply exciting to anyone who loves Jesus. Gratitude reminds us of what God has done, and generosity reflects His heart through our actions.
Thankfulness and generosity should be our constant companions — two inseparable parts of our lives.
Recently, my wife and I re -
turned from visiting our kids and grandkids in Japan. Japan is an incredible culture, full of honor and respect. One of the most visible ways they express that is through the bow — a simple gesture that communicates apology, respect, and gratitude.
Usually, it’s just a small nod of the head. But the deeper and longer the bow, the greater the respect and thankfulness being shown.
One day, while waiting in a store, I noticed an elderly woman standing with no available seats. I stood up and offered her mine. She turned and bowed so deeply that it shocked me. I later came to learn that the deeper and more pronounced the bow, the greater the gratitude and respect.
The gratitude she showed that day reminded me of how we should treat God.
What does my bow of gratitude to God look like?
Do you live in such a way that my life continually bows before Him in thanks? Because here’s the truth — you can’t talk about being thankful without talking
own animal shelters. Our Animal Shelter Volunteer program brings in people to support our furry friends through many avenues. We also partner with the American Red Cross, where volunteers make up 90 percent of humanitarian work in the organization. In my very own office, I host three produce distributions every month in partnership with Bienestar is Wellbeing. In these distributions, we have wonderful volunteers from the organization and from community partners who show up and provide their
FAITH
about giving. They go hand in hand.
When Thanks meets Generosity
Let’s be honest. Talking about giving can make people squirm a little. Some think, “Here we go again… pastors always talk about money.” But generosity is not just about money — it’s about the heart.
According to God’s Word, giving is supposed to be a joy and a blessing. After everything God has done for us, no Christian should ever have a problem being generous.
Jesus said it best: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
— Acts 20:35
We often act like our blessings belong to us — our life, our success, our future. But Scripture reminds us otherwise: “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.” — Psalm 24:1
Everything we have belongs to Him. Even the “luggage” we carry through life — our time, talents, and treasures — really aren’t ours. They’re His.
So, what does your generosity look like? Does your thankful-
time to support our community. We couldn’t do our food distributions without our wonderful volunteers! I share these amazing opportunities because I want to encourage everyone to volunteer when and where they can. To have a great community, we must have great people, and with your support, we can thrive in D5. Whether it’s for an hour, many days, or weeks, your time is invaluable at these organizations. I see the impact our volunteers make, and it’s powerful. Thank
you to all our volunteers across the district, county, and the world whose work makes our communities brighter.
Sincerely, Yxstian Gutierrez County Supervisor Riverside County’s 5th District includes the cities of Banning, Beaumont, Calimesa, Hemet, Moreno Valley and San Jacinto and the unincorporated communities of Cabazon, Cherry Valley, Lakeview, Nuevo, Reche Canyon, San Timoteo Canyon, as well as parts of Valle Vista and Whitewater.
ness overflow into giving toward God and others?
Jesus: The ultimate example of giving There’s no greater example of generosity than Jesus. “Though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich.”
— 2 Corinthians 8:9
He owned everything. He was rich in power, authority, and life itself. Yet He left heaven’s wealth to walk earth’s dust. He became poor — born in a manger, taking the form of a servant, dying on a cross.
Why? So that we might become rich — not in worldly possessions, but in grace, forgiveness, and eternal life.
We weren’t just poor before Christ — we were spiritually bankrupt. But in His love, He paid our debt in full.
Love always gives At the heart of it all is love.
“For God so loved the world that he gave…” — John 3:16 True love always gives. It’s not just a feeling; it’s an action. God’s love moved His hands toward generosity — the giving
of His Son. If we claim to love God, then that same love should move us to give — of our time, our resources, our service, and our hearts.
Generosity: Not an option, but obedience
Generosity isn’t just a nice thing Christians do; it’s obedience to the God who gave everything for us. “See that you also excel in this grace of giving.” — 2 Corinthians 8:7
As followers of Jesus, we should strive to excel in gratitude and generosity. Not because we have to, but because love compels us to.
Your challenge
Take the Thanks & Giving Challenge: Every day, thank God for something — and give something. It could be a kind word, an act of service, or a gift. Because gratitude isn’t just a feeling — it’s a lifestyle.
Zachary Elliott is the lead pastor of Fusion Christian Church in Temecula. For more information, visit http://www.fusionchristianchurch.com, http://www.encouragementtoday.tv or find them on Instagram.
