Murrieta rings in the season with festive events and ways to give back
MURRIETA — The City of Murrieta is kicking off the holiday season with a festive lineup of events for families, neighbors, and visitors to enjoy throughout the month. From Santa sightings to community traditions, there’s something for everyone to help make the season bright.
County reminds property owners: Tax deadlines approaching
RIVERSIDE – Property owners are reminded that the first installment of property taxes becomes delinquent if not paid by December 10, 2025, and the second installment becomes delinquent if not paid by April 10, 2026. Late payments will incur a 10% penalty. In addition, an administrative cost will be added on late second installment payments.
New Temecula archway welcomes visitors to Wine Country
was lifted into place overnight Monday and Tuesday, Nov. 24–25, marking the completion of a long-antic-
Massive Somali welfarefraud cases in Minnesota— Here’s what we know
Janice Hisle The Epoch Times Reporter
Networks of fraudsters, many from Minnesota’s Somali community, exploited welfare programs—and raked in billions of taxpayer dollars, authorities say. At least three major scandals are involved, one of which has been developing for years. Two others recently surfaced. Then came new revelations that inspired presidential action and touched off calls for further investigation.
ipated entry monument along Rancho California Road just east of Butterfield Stage Road. The project was awarded last summer when the Riverside County Board of Supervisors
approved a $744,100 construction contract with US Builders and Consultants, Inc.. All submitted bids exceeded the engineer’s
see ARCHWAY, page A-2
Massive search for missing person conducted in Santa Margarita River Valley
Julie Reeder and AC Investigations Valley News Staff
Saturday, the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department, with support from its Search and Rescue (SAR) teams, conducted an extensive search of the Santa Margarita River area in the De Luz canyon after women’s clothing was discovered earlier this week that raised concern whether it might be related to a missing or
deceased person. However, no remains were found.
Friday, Nov. 28, drivers were noticing some activity by Search and Rescue in the Valley as they drove through DeLuz. Tony Campbell, of AC Investigations, was on the scene talking to detectives and sergeants who were explaining that the area was being “checked out” in preparation for the full-scale search the next day, which was Saturday, Nov.
29, 2025. Roughly 50 personnel took part in the effort, according to San Diego Sheriff Sergeant Kenneth Seel from the Major Crimes Division Homicide Unit. SAR volunteers were on foot with dogs and drones sweeping the terrain, and mounted units on horseback.
Teams scoured from the “Horse Trail Park” region, down through the riverbed, across the river, and up to the road above the canyon.
Sgt. Seel said, “So there’s nothing I can disclose at this time, but I can tell you that nothing was located during today’s search.” When asked about clothing that was supposedly found earlier last week, the Sgt. said, “At this point, it’s an ongoing investigation.”
After a full day of coordinated effort, searchers found no sign of a body or remains, and the items
The new Temecula Valley WIne Country Archway was installed last week after a year in planning. Valley News/Shane Gibson photo
Search and Rescue utilized horses to help with the search in the Santa Margarita River on Saturday, Nov. 29, 2025.
Valley News/AC Investigations photo
County to resurface New Chicago Avenue and Ramona Expressway in Valle Vista
Joe Naiman Special to Valley News
A contractor will be resurfacing portions of New Chicago Avenue and Ramona Expressway in the Valle Vista area of Greater Hemet.
The Riverside County Board of Supervisors voted 5-0 November 18 to authorize the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors to advertise the resurfacing project for bid. The action also approved the plans and specifications, set a December 10 bid opening date, and found the resurfacing, which will not create additional traffic lanes and involves negligible or no expansion of use of the existing roadway, to be categorically exempt from California Environmental Quality Act review.
The resurfacing will cover the full width of an approximate 0.26-mile segment of New Chi-
from page A-1
estimate at the time, prompting the board to approve a revised total project budget of $1.112 million to cover construction, design, environmental review, engineering, inspection, and surveying, along with a contingency for potential change orders.
County transportation officials described the new structure as both an infrastructure improvement and a branding investment for one of Riverside County’s signature destinations.
“We’re excited to share that the new Temecula Valley Wine Country archway sign was successfully installed Tuesday night, right on schedule and just in time for Thanksgiving,” a spokesperson for the Riverside County Transportation Department said. “We’re proud to help bring this beautiful new landmark to the community.”
The monument replaces the earlier pillar-style sign that was removed during intersection improvements at Rancho California Road and Butterfield Stage Road. The new arch stands about 100 feet east of Avenida Biona and spans 75 feet across the roadway.
Constructed entirely of metal, the archway is supported by steel pipe columns and reinforced
cago Avenue from East Florida Avenue, which is part of State Route 74 at that point, to Lincoln Avenue and a 1.3-mile segment of Ramona Expressway between Highway 74 and Lake Street at the City of Hemet limit line. The two projects were combined into a single bid project to obtain cost efficiencies by eliminating multiple bidding and administrative procedures and to seek more favorable pricing associated with larger bid quantities. New Chicago Avenue is a twolane road that handles northbound and southbound traffic. The width ranges from 27 to 53 feet. The circulation element of the county’s general plan classifies New Chicago Avenue as a Local Road. Ramona Expressway is classified as an Arterial Highway and has northwest and southeast travel lanes; the portion of the road to be resurfaced has four lanes with
concrete pile foundations, each four feet in diameter. The scope of work also included minor pavement widening, installation of asphalt concrete dikes, and new concrete curb and gutter to integrate the sign into the roadway corridor.
In April, supervisors unanimously approved final plans and specifications and determined the project was categorically exempt from review under the California Environmental Quality Act. Five bids were received by the May deadline, with US Builders and Consultants submitting the lowest.
WakeCo, Inc., of Temecula submitted the second-lowest bid at $848,127.
A portion of the funding — $370,000 — came from the county’s Unincorporated Communities Initiative Fund, established in 2020 to address infrastructure and service deficits in unincorporated areas. The remaining costs were covered by district area improvement funds.
Wine Country lies within the county’s Third Supervisorial District.
At the time of approval, county staff told supervisors the monument was intended to do more than mark a boundary.
a painted and raised median and a road width ranging between 57 and 86 feet. Deteriorated pavement conditions require the resurfacing of the two roads.
The New Chicago Avenue resurfacing will remove the existing asphalt concrete pavement and underlying material and place hot mix asphalt on the roadway.
The Ramona Expressway work will cold plane a portion of the existing asphalt concrete pavement, seal existing cracks, install an asphalt rubber aggregate membrane (which is a pavement treatment using a mixture of asphalt and ground-up tire rubber to create a flexible, waterproof, and crack-resistant membrane), and overlay the membrane with rubberized hot mix asphalt. The work on the two roads will also include reconstruction of concrete cross gutters and spandrels, curb and gutter, sidewalks and a
curb ramp, safety edge to protect the outside edge of the pavement, safety features including thermoplastic crosswalk and pavement marking, and roadside signs.
The bid package will be structured with a base bid for the resurfacing and associated improvements and two alternative bids to adjust Lake Hemet Municipal Water District facilities, which will become part of the contract if the alternative bid sections of the low responsible bid are approved by the water district. One alternative bid is for the New Chicago Avenue resurfacing, while the resurfacing of Ramona Expressway is a separate alternative bid. The director of the county’s Transportation Department has the authority to sign reimbursement agreements of up to $100,000 without Board of Supervisors approval, so if the water district accepts the alter-
native bids, the reimbursement agreement will be approved administratively.
The Road Repair and Accountability Act was passed by the state legislature in 2017 and raised the gas tax by 12 cents per gallon while raising annual vehicle registration fees from $25 to $175 based on vehicle value, and revenue from that as well as other gas tax revenue, will be used to fund the resurfacing. Including the anticipated Lake Hemet Municipal Water District reimbursement, the estimated cost of the contract is $3,338,685. The resurfacing work is scheduled to begin in spring 2026. The work will be phased to keep the road open during construction as much as possible and will take approximately three months to complete.
Joe Naiman can be reached at jnaiman@reedermedia.com.
“The Temecula Valley Wine Country and its many award-winning wineries is a major tourism draw for the county,” staff wrote in a report. “The installation of the archway monument across Rancho California Road will create an improved and inviting gateway.”
compasses roughly 33,000 acres, with about 9,000 acres planted in vineyards and just over 50 wineries operating throughout the rolling hills east of the city.
The arch serves as a symbolic front door to an industry that defines the region’s economy and identity. Wine Country en-
A tourism assessment district, formed three years ago, continues to promote the area, though officials stressed that the archway was not funded by that district and did not draw from the county’s general fund.
cess showed stone pilasters and vine-covered columns flanking the structure. County officials said those finishing touches are expected to be added as a final phase.
A rendering presented to supervisors earlier in the pro -
For now, the towering arch spans Rancho California Road with a simple message — “Temecula Valley Wine Country” — offering travelers a new visual welcome to one of Southern California’s most visible agricultural destinations.
The new Temecula Valley Wine County sign stands above Rancho California Road. Valley News/Shane Gibson photo
Murrieta rings in the season with festive events and ways to give back
MURRIETA — The City of Murrieta is kicking off the holiday season with a festive lineup of events for families, neighbors, and visitors to enjoy throughout the month. From Santa sightings to community traditions, there’s something for everyone to help make the season bright.
Sensory Santa December 2, 6-9 p.m. at the Murrieta Youth Center
This free event welcomes neurodivergent individuals and people of all ages with adaptive needs. Come enjoy photo opportunities with Santa, hot cocoa, crafts, and more, all in a calm and low-sensory environment.
Holiday Home Decorating Contest
Think your holiday lights outshine the neighborhood? Enter this year’s Holiday Home Decorating Contest. Entries must be received by December 4 at 11:59 PM. Online voting will run through December 18, with winners announced shortly after. One entry per home, or get your neighbors together and enter your block.
Letters From Santa Little ones can send a letter to the North Pole and receive a response from Santa himself.
that triggered the search have yet to be definitively linked to any missing person.
Tony Campbell from AC Investigations noted that the search organizers carried a flyer for 83-year-old Fallbrook resident Elena Roy, who has been missing for roughly four years. Investigators wanted to rule out the remote possibility that the discovered clothing or any possible remains might have belonged to her. According to detectives on scene, the family said they believed the clothing did not belong to their mother, Elena Roy.
The Elena Roy disappearance is a case that still haunts the community. Sgt. Seel reiterated
Download the letter template on the City’s website and get those wish lists early!
Donuts With Santa December 6, 9-10:30 PM at Town Square Park & Amphitheater
Start your morning with treats and a meet-and-greet with Santa. Enjoy free donuts for the first 500 kids, meet Santa, plus Animal Friends of the Valleys will be on site for pet adoptions! Admission is one non-perishable food or pet item per child (Dog/cat food, treats, or cat litter accepted).
Festival of Trees
December 6, 5-8 PM at Town Square Park & Amphitheater
Stroll through beautifully decorated trees from local families and businesses, enjoy treats, festive entertainment, and soak in the holiday spirit at one of Murrieta’s most heartwarming seasonal traditions. The City’s official tree lighting will take place at approximately 6 p.m.
Santa Stops
December 2-4 & December 8-11
Santa will be cruising through Murrieta neighborhoods to wave hello, spread cheer, and bring the magic of the season right to your street. For the live Santa Tracker,
that just because Homicide is still working on the case, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it was a murder, as they are given all instances of people missing over 30 days, and it is not unusual for them to carry out searches whenever any new information or a new piece of evidence comes to light. In this case, it was the clothing that triggered the search; however, Sgt. Seel couldn’t give any more details as it is still an open case. When asked if Sgt. Seel could verify that the missing person was Elena Roy, or if it was a new person, he said, “Yes, ma’am. Anytime we get any additional investigative leads, however small they may be, of course, we need to take the appropriate measures.
visit www.murrietasantastops.org
Citywide Toy & Food Drive December 1-19
In the spirit of giving, the City is collecting new, unwrapped toys and non-perishable food items to support local children and community food pantries. Donations will be accepted Monday, December 1, through Friday, December 19.
Collection boxes are located at:
City Hall
Murrieta Community Center
Murrieta Public Library
Murrieta Police Department
Senior Center
Youth Center
Residents are encouraged to donate what they can—every contribution helps brighten a family’s holiday season.
The City of Murrieta invites the entire community to come together, celebrate, and make memories throughout December.
For full event details, registration links, and updates, visit the City of Murrieta website or follow Murrieta Community Services on social media.
For more information about upcoming City of Murrieta Special events, visit www.MurrietaCA.gov/Events
Unfortunately, nothing came of today, but we’ll continue to work the investigation.”
Elena Roy was last seen on Nov. 3, 2021. At the time, she lived in Fallbrook with her partner, Chris Cataldo. According to Cataldo, Roy left their home at about 1:30 p.m., following an argument, for what was described as a routine walk - but she never returned.
Roy, described as 5′4″ tall and around 120 pounds, had been suffering from gradually worsening dementia, according to her husband. The family wasn’t so convinced.
The day before disappearing, she was reportedly captured on security video at a local store - the last time anyone besides Cataldo
saw her. Her absence triggered a region-wide search effort involving hundreds of volunteers, law-enforcement teams, and SAR resources combing streets, rural roads, and wilderness areas in and around Fallbrook. Despite sweeping searches, including helicopter flights when weather permitted, dogs and ground crews, nothing was ever found.
In the years since her disappearance, Roy’s family continues to press for answers. They have expressed suspicion over several details - including what they consider delays and odd decisions by Cataldo, and the fact that someone under her name may have used her identity for housing or credit shortly after she vanished.
clothing in a remote section of Santa Margarita River area underscored the unpredictability of wilderness terrain and how easily evidence - even critical evidence - might go unnoticed for decades. By carrying Roy’s missing-person flyer during the search, authorities demonstrated they are treating the discovery with the utmost caution. Given that Roy’s last confirmed sighting was nearly four years ago, even a slender chance that the clothing belonged to her or someone else lost in the canyon warrants a thorough investigation.
A $10,000 reward remains in effect for information leading to her whereabouts.
Although the search turned up no remains, the discovery of
For the community - especially in Fallbrook, De Luz, and surrounding areas - today’s search renews hope that Elena Roy is not forgotten and long-term missing-person cases like Roy’s might yet find resolution.
Santa will be cruising Murrieta neighborhoods to say hello and spread cheer throughout the season. Visit www.murrietasantastops.org to track him. Valley News/Petra Nesti photo (pexels.com)
Tony Campbell and Danielle Ratigan both contributed to this report.
SEARCH from page A-1
San Diego Sheriff’s Search and Rescue teams and mobile unit were on scene, participating in a search for a possible missing person in the Santa Margarita River Valley on Nov. 29, 2025. Valley News/AC Investigations photos
Lake Elsinore announces Grand Marshals for the 11th Annual Winterfest Christmas Parade
LAKE ELSINORE — The City of Lake Elsinore is proud to present the 11th Annual Winterfest Christmas Parade on Saturday, Dec. 6, in Historic Downtown Lake Elsinore.
This year ’s Grand Marshals are State Assemblywoman Natasha Johnson (District 63) and longtime Lake Elsinore Unified School District educator Sue Moore—both honored for their outstanding dedication, service, and lasting contributions to the Lake Elsinore community.
This year’s parade will showcase festive holiday floats, nine m arching bands, local performance groups, giant Macy’s-style parade balloons, and a special appearance by Santa Claus and his cheerful team of elves.
For those who cannot attend in person, the parade will be broadcast live beginning at 5:15 p.m. on the City’s social media platforms and Public Access Channels—Spectrum 29 and Frontier 31. The broadcast will be hosted by Jovanny Rivera
Huerta and Alejandra Handcock, bringing the holiday spirit directly into homes across the region.
Supervisor Gutierrez to host ‘Decisions and Directions’ event for youth and families
HEMET – Riverside County Fifth District Supervisor Yxstian Gutierrez, in collaboration with the Riverside County Probation Department, will host a Justice System Symposium focused on empowering the justice-impacted community, including youth, with resources and opportunities.
The event, themed “Decisions and Directions,” marks the second Justice System Symposium for the district this year, building on the success of a previous symposium held in Moreno Valley. It will take place on Thursday, Dec.
17 from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Hemet Public Library. This initiative is designed to provide guidance, resources, and insights to help the community and youth make informed choices and chart successful courses for their lives.
Supervisor Gutierrez championed this event by contributing $5,000 in Unincorporated Communities Initiative (UCI) funds, underscoring a commitment to youth development and community well-being. The “Decisions and Directions” event will serve youth and families in Hemet
and surrounding unincorporated areas.
“As an educator, I believe in empowering people with the tools and guidance they need to navigate life,” said Supervisor Gutierrez. “Our Justice System Symposium will provide a space for justice-impacted community members to learn from others, discover new opportunities, and build a strong foundation for their future.”
“In partnering with Supervisor Gutierrez, we’re opening doors, offering guidance, and showing
what’s possible when the right support is in place. Together, we can empower youth and community members to turn challenges into opportunities and possibilities into success.” said Chief Probation Officer Christopher H. Wright. This free event will offer valuable support, share stories of individuals who have embraced positive paths, and connect attendees with vital community programs, services, and like-minded individuals. Attendees will have the opportunity to
engage with various community partners, hear from speakers and panelists, and learn more about county resources.
To join us, please RSVP by visiting this link: https://www.eventbrite. com/e/1852768282809?aff=oddtdtcreator
For more information, contact the Office of County Supervisor Gutierrez at (951) 955-1050 or District5@Rivco.org
State Assemblywoman Natasha Johnson is one of the Grand Marshals of Lake Elsinore’s Winterfest Christmas Parade.
Longtime LEUSD educator Sue Moore is the other Grand Marshals of Lake Elsinore’s Winterfest Christmas Parade. Valley News/Courtesy photos
The free, family-friendly Winterfest Festival opens at 4 p.m. in downtown Gediman Square, featuring vendors, live entertain-
ment, sledding, photos with Santa, and plenty of festive holiday treats.
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. 6 – 9-10:30 a.m. Donuts with Santa at Murrieta Town Square Park, 11 Town Square, Murrieta. Enjoy free donuts for the first 500 kids, meet Santa, plus Animal Friends of the Valleys will be on site for pet adoptions! Admission: One non-perishable food or pet item per child (Dog/cat food, treats, or cat litter accepted).
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
Dec. 4 & 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. 5 – 7 p.m. Santa’s Electric Light Parade in Old Town Temecula. The parade starts at Jefferson Avenue and Del Rio Road, then travels south into
Old Town Temecula. Bring your chairs and blankets to enjoy the twinkling lights, festive floats, and joyful community spirit. For more details, visit TemeculaCA. gov/SantaParade
Dec. 6 – 5-8 p.m. Murrieta Festival of Trees & Tree Lighting at Town Square Park, 11 Town Square, Murrieta. Kick off the holiday season at this magical community celebration filled with twinkling lights, music, and sweet treats.
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. Cruisin’ & 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. 14 – 4 p.m. Temecula Valley Symphony performs timeless holiday classics and selections from the Nutcracker, featuring the Temecula Ballet. At Temecula Valley High School’s Golden Bear Theater, 31555 Rancho Vista Rdl, Temecula. For tickets, call 951-587-1536 or email tvsinfo@ TemeculaValleySymphony.org
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 funfilled 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 951-674-2159.
ONGOING – Sun City Civic Association Monthly Square Dance sessions are held on Sundays from 1:30-5 p.m. at 26850 Sun City Boulevard.
ONGOING – If you know a homebound older adult, resources in Menifee are available, including grab-and-go, cooked, and frozen food for pickup. Courtesy pantry items and meals delivered with no contact. Three days of emergency food can be delivered immediately, or restaurant meal delivery for those who don’t qualify for food assistance programs. Call the California Department of Aging at 800-510-2020 for help.
ONGOING – Saturdays and Sundays only, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The 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 – 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 951-6946480.
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 dropoff 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 833-349-2054.
ONGOING – Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous, a free 12step recovery program for anyone suffering from food obsession, overeating, undereating or bulimia, has meetings throughout the U.S. and the world. Contact 781932-6300, or for local meetings, call 925-321-0170 or visit www. foodaddicts.org.
ONGOING – The Murrieta Garden Club meets each month at the Murrieta Community Center, 41810 Juniper St. Anyone who likes to garden or is interested in plants is welcome. Membership is $10 per year. Find more information about the monthly event or project on Facebook.
ONGOING – Temecula Valley Rose Society meets each month. For more information and new meeting dates and places, visit www.temeculavalleyrosesociety. org
ENTERTAINMENT
Movie review: ‘Zootopia 2’
Bob Garver Contributor
2016 was a great year for animation. Disney gave the world a new musical masterwork in “Moana.” Pixar had its biggest hit up to that point in “Finding Dory.” Even underdog Laika came out with cult classic “Kubo and the Two Strings.” But the winner of the Best Animated Feature Oscar that year wasn’t any of those films (“Finding Dory” wasn’t even nominated), it was another Disney movie, “Zootopia.” It wasn’t a terribly controversial choice either, with critics and audiences alike praising the film for its morethoughtful-than-usual look at race relations, symbolized as relations between various species of animals, though usually taking the form of predators vs. prey. The film was so successful, funny, and poignant that at time I advised Disney to add a whole Zootopia section to their Animal Kingdom theme park. To date, the property has only gotten a single attraction – a 3D movie in the park’s Tree of Life – but it’s in a key location. Anyway, here’s a look at the less-poignant sequel.
Following the events of the first “Zootopia,” bunny police officer Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin) was hailed as a hero, along with her unlikely ally, former con-artist fox Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman). Now the two are both officially cops, and partnered
together as a mismatched-on-paper duo that Judy is determined to turn into the superstars of the station. She decides that the best way for the team to make its mark is to bust a smuggling operation without consulting buffalo police chief Bogo (Idris Elba) or even Nick. Poor communication turns the desired bust into, well, a bust, and Judy and Nick soon find themselves at the bottom of the department’s figurative food chain.
Nick wants to wait patiently to get out of the (again, figurative) doghouse, but Judy wants to turn things around immediately, so she doubles down and drags Nick into another unauthorized mission, this time to protect the theft of a book that details how the weather accommodates all the animals in Zootopia. The book belongs to the powerful Lynxley family (of lynxes, naturally), and patriarch Milton (David Strathairn) has graciously decided to display the book at a fancy gala, where Judy interacts with his son Pawbert (Andy Samberg), the most charmingly awkward runt of a family since Hans from “Frozen.”
The book does indeed get stolen by Gary (Ke Huy Quan), a venomous snake. This is a big deal for the city, as for all its supposed inclusivity, reptiles, especially snakes, have been banished from Zootopia for the last century. Judy and Nick naturally want to stop Gary, but there’s more to the story than a simple book
theft. If Gary can just use the book for its intended purpose, he can end the reptile ban and make life better for himself, his family, and his whole class of animals. But the city at large, including the Lynxleys and stallion mayor Winddancer (Patrick Warburton), are more interested in protecting the accepted truth than the actual one. Judy and Nick have to rely on unconventional resources like beaver conspiracy theorist Nibbles Maplestick (Fortune Feimster), all while questioning if they really belong as partners after all.
“Zootopia 2” is a fine movie, if missing some of the magic of the first. A few too many gags take the form of terrible puns or played-out schtick, but there are more than enough funny jokes to balance them out. What really dinged the film for me was the idea of the acceptance of the reptilian race hinging on a single piece of information. The Zootopia of the first movie was too complex to rely on outdated concepts like “banishment.” Prejudice, sure, maybe mistreatment, but not black-and-white banishment. Oversimplified shortcuts like these are why this film can’t measure up to its predecessor. Then again, the worldbuilding is still creative and the chemistry among the cast still sharp. It’s a movie that I’m happy to recommend, but as with last year’s “Moana 2,” that happiness is somewhat dulled by remember-
Make your days merry with Ronald
Library’s free December programs
What’s in your portfolio?
Zachary Elliott Special to Valley News
I once talked with a guy who told me he’d lost $30,000 in Bitcoin. When I asked how he felt about it, he shrugged and said, “That’s just how it goes.” Maybe you’ve felt that same pain — the regret of putting your time, energy, or money into something that didn’t pay off. We all want to make good investments. Whether it’s in finances, relationships, or careers, nobody wants to pour into something that won’t last. But Jesus reminds us of a truth that kingdom generosity is the only investment that lasts.
Jesus said, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven... For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:19–21)
Jesus really only gives us two options for investment. We can have an earthly portfolio, but that won’t last. It will eventually get spent, stolen, or destroyed because it’s worldly.
Our second investment option is to invest in God’s kingdom. Jesus promises that whatever investment we make there will never be wasted, stolen, or destroyed because it’s heavenly. Big difference.
Which one are you investing in?
Our kingdom portfolio says everything about what matters to us.
If your heart loves material things, your focus will always be temporary. But when your heart loves God’s kingdom, your life begins to reflect eternal values.
Investing in God’s work — His mission, His people, His church — is the only investment with everlasting returns.
What’s in your portfolio?
Jesus continues in Matthew 6:22–23: “The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light.”
At first, that might seem unrelated, but Jesus is reemphasizing the point. He’s using an earthly example to help us understand a heavenly dynamic.
What your eyes focus on determines what fills your soul. If your eyes are fixed on heaven, your life is full of light and purpose. But if you’re obsessed with the world — wealth, possessions, comfort — darkness begins to cloud your vision.
The only reason you can see anything is because of light. When your eyes are full of light, life is good. But when your eyes are filled with darkness disguised as light — when you chase comfort over calling — you start building the wrong kingdom.
That’s why Jesus calls us to expand our capacity for light — to widen our spiritual iris. As the world grows darker, we must let more of God’s light into our hearts. Who do you serve?
Jesus doesn’t stop there. Just in case we were too thick to get what he was talking about, he makes it crystal clear with his next statement. He said, “No one can serve two masters... You cannot serve
ing the heights that the franchise reached before.
Grade: B“Zootopia 2” is rated PG for
H.
TEMECULA – The Ronald H. Roberts Temecula Public Library, located at 30600 Pauba Road, is hosting festive and unique programs this December 2025 to get you into the Winter spirit. Mason Jar Lanterns Thursday, Dec. 11 | 4:30 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Create Winter scenes using tissue paper and mason jars while enjoying hot chocolate. This program is designed for students in
action/violence and rude humor. Its running time is 108
Join us for a holiday hijinks adventure when Santa ends up in Halloweentown. This program is for all ages. Winter Whimsy String Art Thursday, Dec. 18 | 6 p.m. –7:30 p.m.
The final craft night will be Thursday, Dec. 18, where participants will be making winter-themed designs out of string. Valley News/Courtesy photo
FAITH
both God and money.” (Matthew 6:24)
We all serve something. For some, it’s money. We will all spend the vast majority of our lives trying to earn money. It’s easy to let it become the god we serve. But Jesus says you can’t serve both. It’s one or the other.
There’s a story about Sam Houston, the first president of the Republic of Texas. He was a wild man before he met Jesus — known for his temper and drinking. But after giving his life to Christ, his life radically changed.
He stopped drinking, swearing, and living with pride and started being faithful to church. He also became extremely generous. He paid for his church to build a new building and personally paid for the pastor’s salary. He became a generous person.
When asked why he was so generous, Sam said, “When I was baptized, my wallet was baptized too.”
His conversion changed everything — his habits, his words, and his generosity. He made it clear that every part of his life was dedicated to serving Jesus and building His kingdom.
How to build your kingdom portfolio:
If you want to start making eternal investments, start here:
Give first instead of last. Put God at the top of your priorities, not the leftovers.
Give to what advances God’s Kingdom. Invest in what Jesus is building.
Live with an open hand. Everything you have belongs to God; you’re just managing it.
Expand your vision. Ask God to help you see opportunities for generosity every day.
When you invest in God’s Kingdom, you’re not losing anything — you’re laying up treasures in heaven that can never be taken away. So, what does your kingdom portfolio look like? Kingdom generosity is the only
Join us for our final craft night of this year! We will be making winter-themed designs out of string. This program is specifically for ages 18+. Registration begins Thursday, Dec. 4. All programs are free and sponsored by the Friends of the Temecula Libraries. Registration is available in person at the Library Reception Desk or by phone at 951-693-8900. For a full list of programs and offerings at the Ronald H. Roberts Temecula Public Library, please visit TemeculaCA.gov/Library and follow @TemeculaLibrary on social media for updates.
investment that lasts.
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.
Valley News/Courtesy photo
minutes.
Three-Peat Champs: Murrieta’s Tri City Gators punch ticket to Nationals
JP Raineri Sports Editor
SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO
– For the third year in a row, the Tri City Gators, Orange team, an exceptional group of 11-year-old football players from Murrieta, has earned the title of Wescon regional champions. After a hard-fought 26-12 victory over Saddleback Valley last Saturday, Tri City secured its spot at the National Championships in North Carolina, which begin Dec. 5.
The Tri City Gators, which competes in the 11U Division 1 of the Mt. Baldy Conference, has put together a perfect 14-0 season. Their journey to the
regional title was marked by determination and a powerful team dynamic that has set them apart.
The road to the championship was not an easy one. The Gators first had to conquer their own conference, finishing the regular season with an undefeated 10-0 record. Their quest for a conference title culminated in a tense championship game against the Fontana Wolves, where they emerged with a 20-16 win.
“I’m blessed to coach such a talented and dedicated group of athletes,” Head Coach Matt Nunez said. “These boys are hungry for a National Championship.”
That hunger has been a driving force for the Tri City Gators, which has experienced national-level competition before. In previous years, as a 9U and 10U squad, the Gators reached the national semifinals, only to fall just short of the final game with close losses of 6-0 and 7-2. According to Nunez, this year is different.
The team is determined to bring a national title back home to California.
ROGER
This level of focus is rare for young athletes, but it defines the Tri City Gators. Their commitment was clear on Halloween night. Instead of going out for trick-or-treating, the players collectively decided to have an early team dinner and get a good night’s sleep ahead of a critical game. This discipline has been a key ingredient in the Gators’ success.
After winning the Mt. Baldy conference, the Tri City Gators, advanced to the Wescon regional playoffs. In the first round on Nov. 8, they faced the West Coast Conference champion, the El Cajon Wildboys, and won decisively with a 32-12 score. The following week, in the regional semifinal, the Gators delivered a dominant performance, shutting out the Arizona Snakes 28-0 to advance to the regional final.
Their final regional test came on Nov. 22 at San Juan Hills High School against a tough Saddleback Valley team. With a trip to Nationals on the line, Tri City rose to the occasion, securing a 26-12 victory and their third straight regional crown.
Now with an unblemished record, the Tri City Gators will
Soboba Tribal Preschool hosts Fall Feast
Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians Special to Valley News
As a way to thank families for supporting their children at the Soboba Tribal Preschool, the staff and teachers hosted a Fall Feast at the Soboba Sports Complex, Nov. 21. Those who attended were treated to performances by the mostly three-year-old preschoolers, students in Pre-K and those in kindergarten.
After being treated to enthusiastic singing and dancing, everyone was treated to a lunch with delicious Mexican fare, ranging from beef or chicken enchiladas to Pozole prepared by the preschool kitchen staff headed by Chef Anita Morillo. The desserts table was laden with sweet treats provided by the students’ family members and preschool staff.
The walls were decorated with colorful images of all things fall as well as comments about what the young ones are most thankful for this time of year.
Talla Grant said she is thankful for, “My whole family. Everybody, like Papa Joe too. And learning how to be strong, too.” Jaxton Vivanco’s gratitude is for, “My mom, my dad, Jameson, Ka’uush, Rex, Spiderman, and Jericho.”
“Pete the Cat, mom, dad, and grandma” made the list for Eshash Shuullaw, while “Family & noodles” are what Erika Yazzie said.
Most of the kindergartners were thankful for their family members who they love very much. Paxaa Lindsey wrote, “I am thankful for…my parents, my friends and pets.”
The love goes both ways as
AnzA VAlley OUTLOOK
AnzA VAlley OUTLOOK
Our local Tri City Gators (Orange team), the 11U Division 1 Mt. Baldy Conference champions, from Murrieta,
celebrate their third consecutive Wescon regional title after defeating Saddleback Valley 26-12.
Valley News/Courtesy photos
Players and coaches of the Tri City Gators, Orange team, pose with their championship rings, ready to represent California at the National Championships in North Carolina. prepare for the biggest stage in youth football. They will travel to North Carolina with the goal of
finally capturing the national title that has narrowly eluded them for the past two seasons.
Send local sports tips and info to
The youngest students from Soboba Tribal Preschool perform three songs to an appreciative crowd of family members at the school’s annual Fall Feast, Nov. 21.
Pre-K students receive applause and much support from smiling family members at Fall Feast 2025, held at the Soboba Sports Complex. Valley News/Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians photos
Local volleyball standouts face off as Aztecs sweep Fresno State, secure Mountain West tournament berth
JP Raineri Sports Editor
SAN DIEGO – With a postseason berth on the line, the San Diego State volleyball team delivered a decisive 3-0 victory over Fresno State on Saturday afternoon, securing its spot in the Mountain West Championship.
The straight-set win (25-13, 25-21, 25-21) at Aztec Court at Peterson Gym was an emotional Senior Day triumph and another homecoming of sorts, featuring two local standouts on opposite sides of the net.
The match put the spotlight on San Diego State senior setter Sarena Gonzalez, a Temecula Valley High School graduate, and Fresno State freshman outside hitter Madison Pulsipher, an alumna of Rancho Christian High School.
For Gonzalez, the victory was a storybook ending to her final regular-season home match. She played a pivotal role in orchestrating the Aztecs’ offense, contributing a season-high 26 assists. Her precise sets were instrumental in San Diego State achieving its second-highest hitting percentage of the year at .359, with 55 kills against only 13 errors. Gonzalez also added eight digs on the defensive end.
On the other side, Pulsipher and the Bulldogs fought to close their season on a high note. The freshman finished the match with four kills for Fresno State.
The Aztecs (14-15, 9-9 MW) entered the contest needing a win and a loss by San José State to clinch the final tournament seed. They left nothing to chance. San Diego State dominated the opening set, racing to a 12-5 lead and never looking back. The team’s powerful offense, guided by Gonzalez, was overwhelming as the Aztecs took the first frame 25-13.
evidenced by the parents and grandparents who attended the event and enjoyed spending time with their children and extended families.
Maria Vivanco is thankful for her 10, and soon to be 11, grandchildren of all ages. Three of them currently attend the Soboba Tribal Preschool and she enjoyed seeing them on stage performing their songs and dances.
Christian Graduate Madison Pulsipher and her Fresno State Bulldogs visited SDSU in a Mountain West Conference match up.
Fresno State (7-22, 3-15 MW) adjusted in the second set, improving its production at the net. The Bulldogs jumped out to an 18-14 lead, looking to even the match. However, the Aztecs surged late, sparked by three consecutive service aces from Campbell Hague, to fuel a 9-3 closing run and take the set 25-21.
The third set remained tight, but San Diego State maintained
control. The Aztecs posted an exceptional .514 hitting efficiency in the final frame, crushing 22 kills. Despite a late push from Fresno State that narrowed the score to 24-21, San Diego State closed out the match with a final kill to complete the sweep.
Individually for the Aztecs, Madison Corf led all players with 14 kills on a .478 hitting percentage. Ella Schabort added 10 kills, while Talea Mitchell contributed seven kills on a .700 hitting clip.
For Fresno State, Addison Haluska and Jenna Legault tied for the team lead with nine kills each.
The win not only snapped a four-match losing streak for San Diego State but also completed a season sweep over Fresno State for the first time since 2022.
Prior to the match, San Diego State honored its senior class, celebrating the careers and con-
Answers to puzzle on page A-6.
tributions of Gonzalez, Cara Braun, Madison Corf, Keira Herron, Amber Keen, and Taylor Underwood.
With the victory, sixth-seeded San Diego State advances to the Mountain West Championship in Las Vegas. The Aztecs are set to face No. 3 seed Wyoming in the first round on Wednesday, Nov. 26.
Send local sports tips and info to sports@reedermedia.com.
Temecula Valley Grad Sarena Gonzalez is recognized by the Aztecs on Senior night at SDSU. Valley News//David Canales photo
Former Golden Bear and current Aztecs setter Sarena Gonzalez helps SDSU sweep Fresno State 3-0. Valley News//David Canales photo
Rancho
Valley News//David Canales photo
Former Rancho Christian standout, Madison Pulsipher, goes up for a block. Valley News/David Canales photo
FEAST from page A-8
Kindergartners in their handmade turkey costumes perform two songs and a dance at the Fall Feast, Nov. 21.
This poster made by the preschoolers is one of several decorations that welcomed guests to the Soboba Tribal Preschool’s Fall Feast.
Handprints from Pre-K kids fill up the huge acorn that hung on the wall at the Soboba Sports Complex.
Valley News/Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians photos
Lorenzana claims title, Pacquiao debuts in electric night at Pechanga
JP Raineri Sports Editor
TEMECULA – Manny Pacquiao Promotions made a powerful statement in its United States debut, delivering an electric, soldout night of boxing Saturday at Pechanga Resort Casino that saw a new regional champion crowned and the next generation of a legendary name step into the professional ring.
In the main event, Tijuana’s Lazaro Lorenzana kept his perfect record intact, improving to 19-0 with a commanding 10-round unanimous decision over veteran Luis Arias to capture the WBC Regional Middleweight Championship. Lorenzana, who was born and raised in nearby San Diego, applied relentless pressure from the start, winning decisively on the judges’ scorecards.
The bout was only the second in the U.S. for Lorenzana, but he fought with the confidence of a seasoned headliner. He effectively controlled the pace of the fight against Arias (22-6-1), a former IBF USBA Middleweight Champion. The judges scored the contest 100-90, 99-91, and 98-92, all in favor of Lorenzana.
“It was a tough fight getting in there with a veteran. It was an honor to share the ring with him,” Lorenzana said. “This fight was a steppingstone. My team and I know that we have big fights in the future. We are climbing to get to those.”
The co-main event featured one of the night’s most anticipated moments: the professional debut of Jimuel Pacquiao, the eldest son of boxing icon Manny Pacquiao. Facing Chicago’s Brendan Lally, also making his pro debut, Pacquiao fought to a thrilling four-round majority draw that brought the capacity crowd to its feet.
The lightweight contest was a non-stop affair, with both fighters trading significant shots throughout. Two judges scored the bout an even 38-38, while a third saw it 39-37 for Pacquiao. The fight saw numerous momentum shifts as Pacquiao and Lally, a high school English teacher, stood toe-to-toe for all four rounds.
Manny Pacquiao, who was ringside, expressed pride in his
son’s performance. “This is good for experience for Jimuel,” he said. “It’s not the ideal outcome, but I know he can do better and he will do better. My plan is to have him fight on my undercard so I can train with him throughout the whole camp.”
Jimuel Pacquiao acknowledged the pressure of the moment but welcomed the challenge. “During my ring walk, all I could think about was how many people were here,” he said. “Next time I fight, I’m going to push the pace much harder. I’m happy I was able to experience this.”
The night also featured several other compelling matchups. In the first title bout of the evening, San Bernardino’s Terry Washington (6-0) remained undefeated and won the WBC USA Light Flyweight Championship with a shutout unanimous decision over Ricardo Astuvilca (23-5). Washington, a decorated amateur, won every round on all three judges’ scorecards.
“I felt good out there,” Washington said. “He was in survivor mode. He was trying to survive and not win, so I wasn’t able to catch him. He was running too much.”
Tijuana’s Jose Russell (17-1) made a successful U.S. debut, stopping Saleto Henderson (10-3) in the sixth round of their flyweight bout. Russell scored two knockdowns in the first round and another in the fourth before the referee halted the contest at the request of Henderson’s corner after the sixth.
In an all-California super featherweight clash, Michael Bracamontes (14-2-1) of Garden Grove earned his fifth straight victory, securing a dominant unanimous decision over William King (6-32) of Lynwood.
The undercard delivered its own share of action. Las Vegas’ Rodrigo Mosquera III (2-0) stayed unbeaten with a four-round unanimous d ecision over Bryan Domingo. Victorville’s Sheldon Payne (1-1) earned his first professional win via a majority decision against Adil Gadzhiev (3-2). Following the main event, Javier Zamarron (110) defeated Alejandro Meniano by unanimous decision, and Hollywood’s Alexis Alvarado (9-1-1) also won by unanimous decision over Garen Diagan. The successful
event marked a new chapter for Manny Pacquiao Promotions as it establishes its presence in the American boxing scene. Send local sports tips and info to sports@reedermedia.com.
a
the
Legendary fighter, Manny Pacquiao (middle), looks on at Ringside in support of his son Jimuel Pacquiao’s pro debut fight.
Jimuel Pacquiao, the son of boxing legend Manny Pacquiao, made his professional debut against Brendan Lally in Temecula. Valley News/Rob Davis Photography
Valley News/Rob Davis Photography
Legendary coach Freddy “Papa” Roach accepting the WBC CENTURION AWARD at Pechanga Resort and Casino. Valley News/Rob Davis Photography
Jimuel Pacquiao, left, and Brendan Lally, right, trade blows during their thrilling four-round majority draw in Temecula. Valley News/Rob Davis Photography
Jimuel Pacquiao made his professional debut against Brendan Lally in Temecula on Saturday, Nov. 29. Valley News/Rob Davis Photography
Terry Washington (L) lands an uppercut on Ricardo Astuvilca (R) during the Pacquiao Promotions event held at Pechanga Resort Casino. Valley News/Andrez Imaging
[Right] Javier Zamarron (L) takes
punch to
midsection from opponent Alejandro Meniano (R) during the Pacquiao Promotions event held at Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula on Saturday, Nov. 29. Valley News/Andrez Imaging
Guests
at the Anza Community Thanksgiving
Anza Valley Outlook/Enji Zuo photo
limited, and reservations are requested. To RSVP, contact Lewis at (951) 760-9244 or Barbara Keller at (951) 282-4267.
The gathering is part of ongoing efforts by the Riverside County Office on Aging to connect local seniors with resources while offering opportunities for fellowship and community.
For more information about the Riverside County Office on Aging, visit them on the web at https://rcaging.org.
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.
The Anza Community Hall is located at 56630 CA-371 in Anza.
Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia.com.
Get ready for a holly jolly day at the Cahuilla Casino & Hotel’s Christmas Craft Fair Saturday, Dec. 13. The event will be held at Cahuilla Casino Hotel patio next to the main building. The free event will be held from 12:00 noon until 4:00 p.m..
This event is a great way of kicking off the holiday season with a magical afternoon filled with local craft vendors, handmade treasures, festive treats and plenty of Christmas cheer. Whether guests are searching for unique gifts, looking to enjoy a cozy winter outing, or just love
the holiday atmosphere, this event is the perfect place to spend a December Saturday.
“Bring your friends, your family, and all your holiday spirit,” said Julia Hawthorne, Marketing Coordinator for the Casino. “Come support local creators, shop small, and enjoy a festive day out under the twinkling lights. We can’t wait to see you there.”
For vendor information or additional details, please contact JHawthorne@Cahuilla Casino. com.
Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia. com
ANZA’S UPCOMING
EVENTS
JULIE REEDER, Publisher
MALINA GUGEL, Ind. Contractor
JENNA ORTIZ, Office Manager
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
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 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 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.
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. 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 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.
Serving Anza, Aguanga, Garner Valley, Sage, and surrounding Southwest Riverside County communities.
Unique gifts and more will be offered by vendors at the Cahuilla Casino & Hotel’s Christmas Craft Fair Dec. 13. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo
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. 22 through Nov. 29.
Nov. 22
Grand theft - 5500 block
Kearsarge Rd., Anza, report taken Miscellaneous criminal - 4500 block St. Hwy. 79, Aguanga
The Sheriff’s Blotter enables residents to know what criminal activity is occurring in their communities.
Noise complaint - address undefined, Anza
Danger to self/other - 4200
block Riverdale Dr., Lake
Riverside, report taken Assist other department - 3800
block Fisher Rd., Anza
Public assist - 5400 block
Mitchell Rd., Anza
Assist other department - 5400
block Mitchell Rd., Anza
Danger to self/other - 4800
block Deer Haven Wy., Lake
Riverside
Nov. 27
Fireworks - address undefined, Anza
Shots fired - 5200 block
Browns Rocky Rd., Anza
Public disturbance - 3900
block Anza Rd., Anza
Suspicious circumstanceaddress undefined, Anza
Assist other departmentaddress undefined, Cahuilla
Nov. 28
Suspicious circumstanceaddress undefined, Anza
Unknown trouble - 3900 block Anza Rd., Anza
Barking dog - 4100 block
Terwilliger Rd., Anza
Unknown trouble - 3900 block Anza Rd., Anza
THANKSGIVING from page B-1
was because of these people who volunteered and helped prepare the dinner, set up the tables and chairs, play beautiful music, bring baked goods, and sit and talk with new people to help everyone feel blessed, warm, appreciated, and loved,” said Garrison.
Olivet University Riverside students and staff worked sideby-side with other volunteers throughout the day, reflecting the school’s emphasis on service and community engagement. Many new students, just beginning their academic quarter, were especially grateful for the chance to meet local residents and
build new friendships beyond the classroom.
The spirit of Thanksgiving was felt throughout the hall as volunteers, families, and neighbors shared food, conversation, and fellowship. Olivet University expressed its gratitude to the Anza community and its leaders for modeling a heart of service and creating an opportunity to put faith and learning into action, embracing the values of compassion and generosity taught by Jesus. The event’s successful return has renewed hope that the Anza Community Thanksgiving Dinner will continue as a cherished local tradition in the years ahead.
block Rim Rock Canyon Rd., Anza No assumption of criminal guilt or affiliation should be
drawn from the content provided in the Sheriff’s Blotter.
Residents with information regarding any crimes are encouraged to contact the Hemet Sheriff’s Station at (951)7913400.
Criminal activity can also be reported through the WeTip Crime Reporting Hotline, (909)987-5005 or https://wetip. com. Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia. com
Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo
Generous portions of holiday favorites are served at the Anza Community Thanksgiving Dinner Thursday, Nov. 27.
Olivet University student musicians provide seasonal music at the Anza Community Thanksgiving Dinner Thursday, Nov. 27. Anza Valley Outlook/Enji Zuo photos
Abi Gibbons, left, assists Teri Crutchfield in greeting guests as they enter the Community Hall at the Anza Community Thanksgiving Dinner.
Volunteers fill plates with holiday goodness at the Anza Community Thanksgiving Dinner.
Many of the volunteers gather for a photo at the Anza Community Thanksgiving Dinner Thursday, Nov. 27.
Animals can help reduce thoughts of suicide
Scott Knight The Jason Foundation
Dec. 4 is National Celebrate Shelter Pets Day. It is a day dedicated to honoring animals waiting in shelters for loving families. The day brings warmth and hope, creating a moment for people to pause and see how special these friends can be. Not only do these animals find homes, but they also bring joy, comfort, and, in many cases, help their new owners with mental health struggles such as PTSD and suicidal ideation.
Service animals can reduce suicidal ideation through emotional support, a sense of purpose, and trained tasks that interrupt distress. They provide companionship and a reason to live, while having the ability to interrupt symptoms of PTSD, such as nightmares or flashbacks, as well as physically intervene in a moment of crisis.
These animals serve as emotional anchors, providing stability and a sense of safety. Caring for these animals provides a strong sense of purpose and responsibility to their owners. Training the animals can help reduce panic attacks before they happen, reduce anxiety through physical touch, help wake up their owners from nightmares, alert others if their owner is incapable of doing so, and improve overall well-being.
According to a 2022 article by
American Service Pets, animals have gained a lot of traction as a holistic accompaniment to treatment plans for those with mental illnesses. The simple act of caring for an animal’s dayto-day needs can be an effective distraction from overwhelming thoughts. Having something that depends on them for food, water, and exercise may help individuals overcome feelings that their life is insignificant.
The article goes on to say that pet therapy draws on the connection between the animal and the owner because animals aren’t biased and can love us under any circumstances. The bond with the animal can also boost the owner’s self-esteem.
Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) involves interactions between individuals and trained animals. Dogs are highly valued for their loyalty and ability to provide emotional support. Cats are known for their purring sounds, which can help soothe anxiety and stress. Horses can provide a unique kind of therapy that can help people feel more connected to their emotions. Even rabbits and guinea pigs can be therapeutic, providing comfort and a sense of companionship.
The Jason Foundation is dedicated to the awareness and prevention of youth and young adult suicide by providing educational programs and resources to assist individuals in recognizing the
A legacy of excellence.
warning signs and risk factors for at-risk individuals. Consult your physician or therapist to see if Animal-Assisted Therapy is an option for you or a loved one. To find the closest Jason Foundation Affiliate Office, visit JasonFoundation.com.
Public health officials confirm first flu-related death of the season in Riverside County
RIVERSIDE – Health officials with Riverside University Health System – Public Health (RUHS – PH) are reporting the first influenza-related death of the 2025-26 flu season, while reminding residents that vaccination is one of the best ways to protect against flu and other respiratory viruses.
The individual, who was over 65 and from Western Riverside County, is not believed to have been vaccinated.
“This death is a sad reminder of the dangers that influenza can pose, especially among older adults and those with underlying conditions, and the impact it can then have on families who suffer the loss,” said Riverside County Health Officer Dr. Jennifer Chevinsky. “To protect our loved ones, it is important to make sure those at higher risk don’t delay getting a flu shot.”
Current data, including emergency department statistics, hospitalizations and wastewater testing, show influenza activity is low in Riverside County. Historic trends show flu season could ramp up through the Thanksgiving and winter holiday travel season. Flu season typically runs from October to April.
Influenza cases can be serious for individuals considered atrisk for severe disease, including adults over 65 years, children under 5 years, pregnant women and those who are immunocompromised or have certain health conditions such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease.
Even for those who are otherwise healthy, flu can lead to extended illness with uncomfortable symptoms such as cough, fever, sore throat, stuffy nose, muscle aches and fatigue. Flu spread can also lead to missed school days,
lost work wages and out of pocket medical costs.
Vaccines can reduce complications, minimize life interruptions and offer protection for all.
“Now is the perfect time to protect against influenza. Vaccination is safe and flu vaccines are widely available. It is a simple step we all can do to protect those we care about as the holiday season ramps up,” Dr. Chevinsky said.
According to the California Department of Public Heath, everyone over 6 months of age should receive the flu vaccine each year.
In addition to vaccination, the public is encouraged to take the following steps to protect themselves and others against flu, COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses:
Wash hands thoroughly and frequently.
Cover coughs and sneezes. Stay home from work or school when sick.
Consider indoor masking in crowded places.
Improve ventilation by opening windows or moving events outdoors.
Disinfect frequently used surfaces.
For those at higher risk who do get sick, get tested and talk with your healthcare provider about treatment options.
Flu vaccines can be accessed at your healthcare provider’s office and many local pharmacies. Public Health vaccination clinics can be found online at https://www. ruhealth.org/upcoming-vaccination-clinics
For more information, visit RUHealth.or g/ruhs-publichealth.
Valley News/Ron Lach photo (pexels.com)
RIVERSIDE – Property owners are reminded that the first installment of property taxes becomes delinquent if not paid by December 10, 2025, and the second installment becomes delinquent if not paid by April 10, 2026. Late payments will incur a 10% penalty. In addition, an administrative cost will be added on late second installment payments.
payments made directly from a bank are free of charge. Payments can also be made in person at any County Treasurer-Tax Collector office. A self-service kiosk at the County Administrative Center (4080 Lemon St., 1st Floor, Riverside) offers a quick, secure way to pay by check, cash, or card.
Office locations
in Southwest Riverside County.
Regular Office Hours: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday through Friday (except Palm Desert and Temecula, closed to the public on Fridays).
Extended Collection Hours: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. from December 1–10, 2025, and April 1–10, 2026, at all offices.
The County Treasurer-Tax Collector is responsible for the billing and collection of property taxes, and, for the receiving, processing, investing and most importantly, safeguarding of public funds, as mandated by the laws of the state of California. The combined office is led by County reminds property owners: Tax deadlines approaching Residents encouraged to use alternative payment methods to avoid long lines
“We want to make it as easy and convenient as possible for taxpayers to meet their property tax obligations,” said Treasurer-Tax Collector Matthew Jennings. “With multiple payment options, we encourage residents to use online, phone, or kiosk services to avoid long lines. These dollars go directly toward essential services across Riverside County.” Property taxes can be paid online, by phone, by mail, online
Riverside (Downtown) – 4080 Lemon St., 4th Floor, Riverside, CA 92501 (Includes a cash payment kiosk)
Palm Desert – 38-686 El Cerrito Rd., Palm Desert, CA 92211 (No Mail Accepted). No cash payments.
Temecula – 40810 County Center Dr., Suite 110, Temecula, CA 92591 (No Mail Accepted) No cash payments- Earlier this year, the Temecula office relocated to a newer, more accessible location to better serve residents
CLASSIFIEDS
Annual tax bills were mailed in October. Not receiving a bill does not exempt property owners from payment or penalties.
For more information, visit www.countytreasurer.org.
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Temecula Valley students honored in November
Diane A. Rhodes
Special to Valley News
The Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce Student of the Month program, recognizing and inspiring academic excellence since the 1992-1993 school year, held its most recent awards breakfast on Nov. 13 at the Murrieta Sizzler restaurant, 40489 Murrieta Hot Springs Rd.
Sally Myers, founder of the nonprofit program that partners with the Chamber, welcomed everyone and shared the mission of the local high school recognition program which sets the criteria for the students who are chosen.
Supported by the community, college or vocational/trade school bound seniors are acknowledged and honored for their character, their love of learning and their willingness to participate in numerous activities such as campus events, athletics and community service or the ability to persevere and overcome difficult life circumstances. They accomplish all this in a setting that honors God, country, community, family and free enterprise.
Backpacks filled with gifts, certificates of recognition and much more were donated by the program’s sponsors to the award recipients. Each student was invited to the podium to share their personal story, past challenges and future goals with a room full of supporters that included principals, teachers, peers and family members, as well as community and school district dignitaries.
November’s students of the month are Chaparral High School’s Melissa Chai, Great Oak’s Charles Zhang, Linfield Christian’s George Silverman, Rancho Christian’s Matthew Toy, Saint Jeanne de Lestonnac Catholic High School’s Anthony Simon, Temecula Preparatory High School’s Hector Torres, and Temecula Valley’s Elizabeth “Lizzie” Shedd. Melissa Chai Chaparral High School Principal Tina Miller introduced Melissa as the first student board member at Temecula Valley Unified School District. She is editor-in-chief of the school newspaper, a Mock Trial captain and attorney, author of two published books, president or co-president of multiple clubs on campus such as Women in Law, National Honor Society and Asian Pacific Culture. Melissa said an unexpected schedule change in her sophomore year led her to journalism, working with the school newspaper, leading to one of the most meaningful experiences of her high school career. “Over the past three years I have spent countless late nights editing pages, writing stories, and working alongside some of the most passionate and creative students I have ever met,” she said. “The newsroom taught me that when people care deeply about their work and about each other, they can create something truly powerful. To me, real leadership is about listening, it’s about amplifying others, it’s about building something that outlasts yourself.” Teacher Ryan Leonhardi nominated her for her steadfast commitment to activism and her determination to ensure that every
voice is heard. “Melissa Chai is a change maker, a storyteller, and a force for good,” he said.
Charles Zhang
Great Oak High School Principal Amber Lane said Charles’ passion goes beyond being a full IB Diploma student and involvement in many clubs, including the CyberPatriots. “He embraces his unique personally and continues to grow and reflect on his journey over high school,” she said. He plans to go into the field of AI research. “The life lesson I’d like to bring to college is just to be nice to people,” Charles said. “I’m a math nerd by trade.” He said he enjoys being involved with NHS and other clubs due to the people he has met as a result. “At the end of the day, I think that what really matters is the people that you meet, the people that you touch and a lot less about what score you get at a math competition,” Charles said.
Teacher Steve Maxey said the outstanding senior values friendships and is always meeting people across the country at various math competitions. “He is brilliant and humble,” Maxey said. “One thing he’s done on campus that is so amazing is his leadership. He doesn’t carry the team; he inspires them and makes everyone better.”
George Silverman Linfield Christian High School Principal Ty Nichols introduced George as an intelligent, perceptive debate team captain who models a great strength rooted in his very deep faith. George plans to study political science before attending law school. “A life lesson that has taught me well is the lesson of never,” he said. “To me, never isn’t a negative word but a challenging one. It challenges me to be better every single day. To me, this is what never looks like. It looks like never letting someone be alone at lunchtime, it looks like never settling for good enough, never giving up on someone or
something, never letting go of who I am and where I’ve come from.”
Teacher and debate team coach
Michelle Ueno addressed George. “It is due to your leadership that for the first time in my career the ownership of the team has fallen more squarely in the hands of the captain than the hands of the coach,” she said. “Your presence as captain has led our team to new levels of excellence, has given me a new depth of love for my job as debate coach and has instilled a deep love of the sport as well as a strong sense of camaraderie in each member of your team.”
Matthew Toy Rancho Christian High School
Principal Doris Jackson said Matthew has attended the school since preschool and is kind, thoughtful and reverent in his academics and sports. He said an obstacle he has overcome and how it inspired him to give back to his community was when his older sister was diagnosed with leukemia when he was only seven. “Obviously it was a tougher battle for her than me, but my life changed as well,” Matthew said. He explained that during the time his sister was hospitalized in San Diego, his mother stayed there to give her comfort while his father took him to a friend’s house who then took him to school and went back there after school until his father picked him up after work so they could drive to San Diego to visit his sister.
“One of the toughest parts of this was I hardly ever saw my mom at home,” Matthew said, adding that thankfully his sister is all better.
“Seeing all the love and support she got while she was sick meant so much to my family. Since then, I have joined my school’s Interact Club whose main goal is to give back to the community.” Matthew plans to become a chiropractor.
Anthony Simon Saint Jeanne de Lestonnac Catholic High School Assistant
Principal Jodi Brown said Anthony has the kindest heart, always has a smile and brightens any room he is in. He plans to go into the field of cybersecurity. A lifelong challenge he has had to overcome is having ADHD and anxiety. It was controlled through medication until his sophomore year when he experienced heart problems while playing basketball. It was collectively decided that he stop his meds. This was difficult because he had to work through withdrawal and subsequent side effects from that. His grades suffered because he couldn’t focus. “I found new coping mechanisms,” Anthony said. “I had to learn how to study and focus.” In his junior year, his GPA was back to 4.0. He said the experience taught him that limitations should not hold you back.
His English and Video/Media Arts teacher Melissa Colombo said, “It’s been such a gift to see Anthony’s growth over the last four years. He’s taken on challenges, he stepped up as a leader, and he’s really started to find his creative voice. He puts forth his best efforts and rises above as an example to others.”
Hector Torres Temecula Preparatory High School Upper School Dean Garrett Corduan said he met Hector two years ago when about 40 students and parents took a trip to Europe. “He showed his passion for new experiences, always brings calm to the group, and is a great representative of the type of student we try to develop at Temecula Prep,” he said. Hector, who plans to study economics, said, “I believe we are shaped by our environment. One lesson I learned is to not be afraid of hard work and find pleasure in what you do.” He plays varsity soccer and co-founded the National Hispanic Honor Society.
“I often see people avoid doing the hard things because it makes them uncomfortable. The problem
with that is that these hard paths are usually very necessary. The only person you hurt by avoiding these things is yourself so you might as well find some pleasure in doing it.” He addressed his peers by saying, “I know a new environment such as college can be very difficult and it can seem very daunting and scary, but I just want you to know that there’s a lot of fun and good times to have at college; we find ourselves and learn who we want to be.”
Elizabeth “Lizzie” Shedd Temecula Valley High School
Principal Donna Lione introduced Lizzie as a student who is “involved with everything” such as Unified Sports, varsity flag football and basketball teams, and is senior class president and ASB president. Lione said three words friends would use to describe Lizzie are “genuine, confident and humble.” Lizzie plans to study neuroscience because she loves to see how the mind works. She likes to read people and adapt to what they need because she said, “I understand when you adapt and adjust and understand people, you provide them with an environment where they can thrive.” Lizzie also said, “All the lessons I’ve learned from the teams I’ve been on and the community I’ve been around and classes I’ve taken have shaped my understanding of what true leadership is. It’s about service, connection, and helping others grow alongside you.” Nominating teacher Eric Burlingham said Lizzie is an amazing leader in that she can do the two things that are necessary. “She has a great vision for the world, and she has the skills to make that vision a reality,” he said. “She wants everyone to be involved. She inspires me and the people around her.” For more information, please contact Program Chair Liz Schuch at 951-676-5090 or liz@temecula. org
Riverside County Office of Education to offer first Seal of AI Readiness program for free to high school students
Verified artificial intelligence skills will provide Riverside County students with a competitive edge in job applications and college admissions
RIVERSIDE – Graduating seniors from Riverside County high schools will soon have the opportunity to demonstrate their artificial intelligence expertise to employers and college admissions offices with the launch of the firstof-its-kind Seal of AI Readiness and Next Generation Intelligence offered by the Riverside County Office of Education.
Starting in January 2026, juniors and seniors in Riverside County high schools can apply for the free program through a partnership with Alludo, which will host online course materials for students. The new program offers a range of valuable benefits designed to prepare students for a rapidly evolving digital world. Participants will receive free access to online coursework focused on artificial intelligence, data literacy, and emerging technologies. The curriculum is delivered through Alludo’s interactive micro-learning platform, allowing students to learn at their own pace while engaging with flexible, self-guided lessons.
Students will also have the chance to apply their new AI skills through real-world projects and problem-solving challenges that reinforce practical understanding. Those who complete the program will earn a Seal of AI Readiness and Next Generation Intelligence on their high school diploma, recognizing their achievement. Additionally, participants are invited to attend AI Literacy Day on March 28, 2026, joining higher education and industry partners for hands-on learning and collaboration.
The new seal is the latest in RCOE’s focus on preparing students and educators for the future with artificial intelligence. Earlier in 2025, RCOE hosted the AI Summit, a first-of-its-kind event in K-12 schools with content by OpenAI, the creators of ChatGPT. Other activities have included the Next Gen Intelligence AI Summit for migrant education students, and a partnership with Khanmimgo to offer online tutoring instruction. RCOE recently partnered with Alludo to offer an AI-Ready Educator Certification that provides educational professionals with tools to navigate teaching and learning with artificial intelligence. “The arrival of artificial intelligence in the workplace reflects what employers have always
expected from the educational system—to prepare students to meet current and future workforce needs,” said Riverside County Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Edwin Gomez. “The Seal of AI Readiness and Next Generation Intelligence represents another competitive edge that students from Riverside County can bring to every professional and academic endeavor they pursue following graduation.”
Since launching the Riverside County Seal of Multiliteracy in 2013, 40,062 high school students have proceeded to earn the California State Seal of Biliteracy, which provides evidence of mast ering multiple languages for students in college and career pursuits. The State of California also offers the State Seal of Civic
Engagement. Recognition of these accomplishments is added directly to the diplomas of graduating students, showcasing a competitive advantage in college and career pursuits.
Organized by RCOE’s Innovation and Competitive Advantage Unit and the Instructional Services Unit at the Riverside County Office of Education, the Seal of AI Readiness and Next Generation Intelligence will be available starting in January 2026. For more information on the new program as a student, or as an educator seeking to bring this program to a Riverside County high school campus, sign up for the early interest list at https://bit. ly/aireadyseal or by contacting Dr. Heidi Baynes at hbaynes@rcoe.us
Recipients of the Temecula Valley Student of the Month award for November are, from left, Elizabeth “Lizzie” Shedd, Melissa Chai, George Silverman, Matthew Toy, Hector Torres, Anthony Simon, and Charles Zhang. Valley News/John P. Hess photo
MSJC honors students shine at 59th Annual National Collegiate Honors Council Conference
TEMECULA – Six students from Mt. San Jacinto College’s (MSJC) Honors Enrichment Program joined Program Co-Directors Christina Yamanaka-Vu and Erik Ozolins, along with Honors Biology Faculty member Michael Plotkin, at the 59th Annual Conference of the National Collegiate Honors Council (NCHC) in San Diego, held November 7-9.
The annual NCHC Conference brings together honors educators and students from across the nation to share innovative practices, research, and community-building strategies. MSJC’s delegation actively contributed to the event by attending sessions, presenting original research, and showcasing the college’s thriving honors community.
Two MSJC Honors students, Matt Piercy and Christian LaMattery, presented research posters based on projects completed in the college’s Honors coursework.
Four additional Honors students delivered a group oral presentation titled “Communities within Communities: How Honors Mentors at a Two-Year College Build Partnerships Across the College Campus,” highlighting the impact of peer leadership within the program and across MSJC.
The presentation was given by Elissa Ferguson, Abby (last name withheld upon request), Isabella Munoz, and Noah Burley.
MSJC Honors Co-Directors Christina Yamanaka-Vu and Erik Ozolins also served as presenters and facilitators in multiple sessions, further demonstrating MSJC’s leadership in Honors education.
In addition, Professor Erik Ozolins was formally recognized during the National Collegiate Honors Council (NCHC) annual conference with the prestigious Ron Brandolini Award for Excellence at a Two-Year Institution.
This national honor, announced earlier in October, celebrates
outstanding faculty and administrators at two-year institutions who demonstrate distinguished leadership, innovation in honors education, and significant impact on student success.
At its core, the recognition highlights Ozolins’ multifaceted contributions as an inspiring mentor whose work is deeply entwined with student achievement, program growth, and institutional excellence.
MSJC Superintendent/President Dr. Roger Schultz praised the accomplishment, stating, “Professor Ozolins exemplifies the very best of MSJC—dedicated, student-centered, and relentlessly committed to academic excellence. His leadership in the Honors Program has transformed opportunities for our students and elevated the college’s reputation on a national stage. We are extremely proud to see his outstanding work recognized with this well-deserved honor.”
The award shows MSJC’s commitment to creating a vibrant academic environment in which students develop research capabilities, intellectual curiosity, and readiness for transfer, and underscores the college’s national reputation in honors scholarship and equity-minded leadership.
Mt. San Jacinto College (MSJC) is a comprehensive community college serving a diverse student population of approximately 30,000 annually across a 1,700-square-mile area. With campuses in San Jacinto, Menifee Valley, Temecula Valley, and San Gorgonio Pass, MSJC provides accessible, equitable, and innovative educational programs. The college offers a wide range of courses and programs designed to meet the transfer requirements of four-year colleges and universities, supporting students in achieving their academic and career goals.
BATON ROUGE, LA – Lory-
mar Cruz-Sanchez of Winchester was recently elected to membership into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation’s oldest and most selective all-discipline collegiate honor society, at the University of Montana.
Cruz-Sanchez is among approximately 20,000 students, faculty, professional staff, and alumni to be initiated into Phi Kappa Phi each year. Membership is by invitation only and requires nomination and approval by a chapter. Only the top 10 percent of seniors and 7.5 percent of juniors are eligible for membership. Graduate students in the top 10 percent of the number of candidates for graduate degrees may also qualify, as do faculty,
professional staff, and alumni who have achieved scholarly distinction.
Phi Kappa Phi was founded in 1897 under the leadership of undergraduate student Marcus L. Urann who had a desire to create a different kind of honor society: one that recognized excellence in all academic disciplines. Today, the Society has chapters on more than 300 campuses in the United States and its territories. Its mission is to “cultivate a community that celebrates and advances the love of learning.”
The Society’s mission is to “cultivate a community that celebrates and advances the love of learning.” For more information, visit www.PhiKappaPhi.org.
CLAREMONT – Harvey Mudd College senior Emily Kendrick of Winchester was part of an award-winning student team that designed and optimized a sensor to measure the transverse profile of NorthStar Medical Radioisotopes’ electron beam, helping improve power delivery and product quality. With additional funding from the first BeamNetUS grant, the students tested their sensor at SLAC’s NLCTA accelerator, gaining rare undergraduate access to high-energy beam facilities and validating their design under more demanding conditions.
Their successful May 2025 tests led to a submitted manuscript describing a student-built SEM grid with broad diagnostic applications for industrial and medical MeV-range electron beams. Harvey Mudd College is a liberal arts college specializing in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The College’s mission is to prepare engineers, scientists and mathematicians to become leaders in their fields and understand the impact of their work on society. Students learn to problem-solve in a hands-on, collaborative en-
vironment; do research alongside outstanding faculty; and develop leadership skills to benefit an increasingly technological world. Named a top research college by the American Council on Education and the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, the College ranks No. 2 in the country for producing research doctorates per capita in science and engineering. Located in Claremont, Calif., Harvey Mudd College is a member of The Claremont Colleges Consortium.
From left, Christina Yamanaka-Vu, Noah Burley, Elissa Ferguson, Isabella Munoz, Abby, and Erik Ozolins.
From left, Noah Burley, Elissa Ferguson, Isabella Munoz, and Abby. Valley News/MSJC photos
MSJC student Matt Piercy, left, describes the results of his work with Michael Plotkin.
MSJC student Christian LaMattery, left, shares his research with Michael Plotkin.
OPINION
Intentional thankfulness
Julie Reeder Publisher
As Thanksgiving came and went, it reminded me of something we sometimes forget to do in the rush of daily life. Every morning I intentionally take time to pause, reflect, and give thanks. Not in passing, not out of habit, but with intention. Thankfulness, when practiced deliberately, has a way of steadying the heart, building mental health, and strengthening the spirit.
Last week as we drove home from the mountains and descended from Big Bear into San Bernardino through the thick brown air, and then came into the clear air in Temecula and then Fallbrook, I am reminded of why we chose this place to move and start our family decades ago. There’s something special about the shift in air quality, the widening sky, the soft rolling hills, the Santa Margarita River Valley, the birds, flowers, and the groves welcoming you back. It still moves me, decades later. This is home. And it is beautiful beyond words. We are blessed.
I am thankful for family and friends who make life rich beyond measure — and we are especially grieving one dear friend who helped in the office and passed away far too suddenly over a week ago. Loss has a way of sharpening our gratitude. It reminds us not to postpone love or appreciation. We never know how much time we’ll have with
the people who matter most. It’s a daily practice that has kept me grounded through life’s many storms. Also, while the office is super busy (and now we could use a couple volunteers) it is such a joy to be visited by subscribers, new people to the community, and advertisers who stop in. I really enjoy those interactions, especially before the day begins with its inevitable “crush.” Yes, I choose thankfulness. Before emails, obligations, and worries, and I thank God. It doesn’t erase hardship, but it reframes it. Gratitude helps separate what is temporary from what is eternal — and suddenly, the breeze feels sweeter, the sunlight warmer, the world kinder.
We have faced our trials. Everyone has. But even in difficulty, blessings abound. The trees. The birds. The changing sky. The privilege of living where we live, in a community that — while not perfect — is truly remarkable. In a country that still offers oppor-
California’s budget: Smoke, mirrors, and a $35 billion cliff
For the fourth straight year, California faces a massive deficit: $18 billion in 2026-27, exploding to $35 billion annually by 2027-28, even while tax revenues pour in from the AI boom and soaring stock market.
The nonpartisan Legislative Analyst’s Office confirmed it this week: the “balanced” budget Governor Newsom signed in June was never balanced.
tunity and hope. This time of year also makes me especially grateful for our work. As we wrap up our annual Sourcebook magazines — a project that continues to grow and thrive — I smile at the persistent question I hear almost weekly: “Isn’t print dead?” The answer is simple: no. People still read. They still hold books. They still flip through pages. They still pause over stories. This year, our Sourcebook’s readership exceeded 200,000 across homes, chambers, medical offices, and hotels. We are thankful for our valuable partnership with Sourcebook included in the 500 Pala Casino Spa Resort Hotel rooms and in the 200 Pala Mesa Hotel rooms. With our digital editions, we reach even outside the area. In 2026, we will reach even farther beyond Fallbrook and Bonsall. I am deeply thankful for that — and for the dedicated team who makes it possible. Our loyal subscribers, our committed
advertisers, and our ever-growing online audience.
I’m thankful for our nonprofits that shape the soul of this town. For the volunteers who quietly give their time and energy to make life better for others. For leadership across our planning group, school boards, fire board, community organizations, churches, and libraries. Our local businesses and farmers. These are the people who carry our town on their shoulders — often without recognition.
And finally, I’m thankful for you — our readers, our neighbors, our supporters. You are the reason this all matters.
So this Thanksgiving and Christmas, may we remember that gratitude is not just a holiday idea — it’s a daily discipline. One that brings peace. One that builds perspective. And one that reminds us how truly blessed we already are.
It was propped up with duct tape and desperation: $7.1 billion stolen from the rainy day fund, $11 billion in fake “cuts” that vanish next year, and billions more in accounting tricks any honest bookkeeper would call fraud. Reserves meant for real emergencies have been looted to fund permanent new spending. Transparency is nonexistent. Sacramento tells the public everything is fine while quietly emptying the state’s savings account.
Governor Newsom and the elected representatives in Sacramento who voted for every one of these budgets own this mess. One-party rule for over a decade has produced unchecked spending, gimmicks instead of discipline, and the fastest depletion of state reserves in California history. Newsom will leave office having burned through the surplus he inherited and the rainy da y fund voters demanded.
His successor will inherit the wreckage: slash Medi-Cal and schools, raise taxes again on the highest-taxed state in America, or watch services collapse. Californians deserve leaders who live within the billions we actually have, not the billions they pretend are coming. The gimmicks must end now. The cliff is real, and the bill is coming due on Newsom’s watch and with Sacramento’s full approval. Respectfully, Jonathan Ingram Murrieta
REGIONAL NEWS
Multiple individuals were convicted on felony charges for orchestrating an auto-fraud collision targeting a rideshare driver
SAN BERNARDINO - Four people have pleaded no-contest to felony insurance fraud and assault charges for their role in staging a collision targeting a rideshare driver. Fifth individual, alleged co-conspirator, Deshawn Perater-Nickson, 26, of Adelanto, faces additional charges of false imprisonment, pimping, and pandering and is due in court January 26, 2026.
Ledontae Pope, 30, of San Bernardino, and Kalil Davis, 27, of Hesperia, were arrested on January 24, 2025, for insurance fraud and assault with a deadly weapon related to a staged collision involving a rideshare vehicle.
Investigators from the Inland Empire Automobile Insurance Fraud Task Force (IEAIFTF) found on November 23, 2024 a collision involving Pope, Davis, and John Murillo, 37, of San Bernardino, occurred on the I-215 in San Bernardino. The suspects ordered a rideshare, and during that ride, a separate vehicle driven by Murillo intentionally collided with the rideshare vehicle driven by the victim. Perater-Nickson was the registered owner of the vehicle that Murillo was driving. The suspects intended to file bodily injury claims against the rideshare driver’s insurance and collect the insurance payout.
The incident was originally reported to the California Highway Patrol (CHP) as a hit and run and the suspects traveling in the rideshare vehicle claimed injuries and were transported to
the hospital via ambulance. The CHP then reported the collision to the IEAIFTF after the rideshare driver came forward and suspected they had been intentionally hit by the other vehicle.
On January 27, 2025, the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office charged Pope, Davis, and Perater-Nickson with assault with a deadly weapon and insurance fraud. At the time of their arrests, two of the three suspects were on probation for previous convictions for narcotics trafficking, assault with a deadly weapon, and felony possession of a firearm.
Additional search warrants were conducted after the arrests of Pope, Davis, and Perater-Nickson, which led to the discovery of the identities of two additional suspects. The driver, Murillo, and co-conspirator Klydale Moses, 24, of Fontana, were arrested on May 19, 2025 on felony charges of insurance fraud and knowingly causing or participating in a vehicle collision/insurance claim. Moses was not in either vehicle at the time of the collision, but was identified as a co-conspirator and participant of the fraud scheme.
Between September 30, 2025, and October 30, 2025, the following defendants pleaded no contest to felony charges: Pope pleaded no contest to knowingly cause or participate in a vehicle collision/Insurance Claim and Assault by means of force likely to produce great bodily injury. Pope was sentenced
to 90 days in county jail and two years of felony probation.
Davis pleaded no contest to Insurance Fraud and Assault with a deadly weapon. Davis was sentenced to 180 days in county jail and two years of felony probation.
Murillo pleaded no contest to knowingly cause or participate in a vehicular collision/Insurance Claim. Murillo has not been sentenced and remains in custody, but agreed to two years of state prison as part of his plea.
Moses pleaded no contest to Insurance Fraud. Moses was sentenced to 90 days in county jail and two years of felony probation.
Perater-Nickson was arrested on January 24, 2025, for insurance fraud and assault with a deadly weapon. His case remains in court. While in custody, on March 13, 2025, he was charged with additional charges related to false imprisonment, pimping, and pandering as a result of evidence discovered during the IEAIFTF investigation.
The IEAIFTF is comprised of peace officers from the California Department of Insurance, the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office, Riverside County District Attorney’s Office, and California Highway Patrol. This case is being prosecuted by the San Bernardino District Attorney’s Office.
Submitted by California Department of Insurance.
NCFPD reopens renovated Station 3 in Rainbow
Joe Naiman Special to Valley News
The North County Fire Protection District’s Station 3 in Rainbow reopened Nov. 3 following a major renovation, with a dedication ceremony held Nov. 19.
“It’s a good day for Rainbow. It’s a good day for the Fallbrook area,” Fire Chief Keith McReynolds said at the event. NCFPD Board President Chris Shaw said the project will “shorten response times and lead to a more effective response,” adding that supporting first responders is essential to public safety.
The project included enlarging and remodeling the station, which has been on the site since 1982, and adding a barn to house a CAL FIRE bulldozer. The upgraded station provides modern living quarters for firefighters—now required after Rainbow’s transition from a volunteer department to full-time staffing—while the dozer’s relocation improves access during wildfires.
“This isn’t just about a new building,” Division Chief Pete August said. “It’s also a symbol of progress.” Rainbow’s fire services originated in the 1960s as a volunteer department under County Service Area 7. The local volunteers used a station at a different site until 1982, when the department relocated to land donated by Ross Daily, a longtime resident. The district became part of the North County Fire Protection District in a 1986 consolidation; Rainbow’s volunteer department was merged into NCFPD in 2018, making professional staffing standard and accelerating the need for a major facility upgrade.
The renovation added dormitories, restrooms, a gym, gear storage and laundry facilities to
enable 24-hour staffing. Interior spaces were reworked to include a new kitchen, day room and offices, and exterior improvements added fencing, parking upgrades, a flagpole and landscaping. A critical change also enclosed the path between living areas and the apparatus bay, eliminating the need for firefighters to go outside to reach engines.
The CAL FIRE dozer, a regional asset deployed as far north as Lake Elsinore, had previously been stored at the former Rainbow Conservation Camp. Locating it at Station 3 improves response on the steep, winding roads of the Rainbow area. CAL FIRE will pay up to $1 million toward the construction of the dozer barn and lease the space for $1,560 per month. Construction began in September 2024. The project encountered a series of upgrades and site conditions—including elevation changes for flood protection, electrical system improvements to support new HVAC equipment and future EV charging, and paving repairs to eliminate hazards—which ultimately extended the schedule. In August 2024 the board approved guaranteed maximum prices of $5.75 million for the station renovation and $949,587 for the dozer barn; subsequent change orders raised the total contract to $7.53 million. Funding included $900,000 in state support secured in 2021, $494,000 in federal ARPA funds from the county, and local fire mitigation fees.
Station 3 will be staffed daily by a captain, engineer and firefighter—all paramedics—and will house both a structure/paramedic engine and a brush engine.
“Station 3 reflects our continued commitment to protecting lives and property,” McReynolds said. Joe Naiman can be reached at jnaiman@reedermedia.com.
Massive Somali welfare-fraud cases in Minnesota—Here’s
what we know
Janice Hisle
The Epoch Times Reporter
Networks of fraudsters, many from Minnesota’s Somali community, exploited welfare programs—and raked in billions of taxpayer dollars, authorities say
At least three major scandals are involved, one of which has been developing for years. Two others recently surfaced. Then came new revelations that inspired presidential action and touched off calls for further investigation.
Here’s what we know about the multifaceted controversy drawing national attention—and greater scrutiny—to the North Star State. Biggest scandal of its kind
The Department of Justice (DOJ) said a Minnesota nonprofit called “Feeding Our Future” and its affiliates stole more than $240 million in federal funds, in what constituted the nation’s largest COVID-19 pandemic-relief scheme.
“This was a brazen scheme of staggering proportions,” thenU.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger said in 2022 when the first 47 people were charged.
The defendants’ quarter-billion haul was used to buy “luxury cars, houses, jewelry, and coastal resort property abroad,” Luger said.
Since then, dozens more have been charged; on Nov. 24, the DOJ announced it had charged a 78th defendant connected to Feeding Our Future.
So far, about 50 defendants, including the nonprofit group’s founder, Aimee Bock, have been convicted ; Bock is being held in federal custody awaiting sentencing.
All but a handful of Feeding Our Future defendants have Somali names; at least one formed a company called “Minnesota’s Somali Community.” The state is home to the nation’s largest group of Somalis, constituting about 1 percent of its population, according to multiple sources, including World Population Review.
Those immigrants come from a nation steeped in public-sector corruption. Somalia ranks as the world’s second-most-corrupt nation, according to the 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index That ranking, compiled by Transparency International, gave Somalia 9 points on a scale where 100 means “very clean;” only South Sudan was worse, with 8 points. The United States scored 65, while the world’s least corrupt country, Denmark, earned 90 points.
How could this happen?
Because schools were closed during the pandemic, officials relaxed rules for the Federal Child Nutrition Program and began
allowing non-educational organizations to feed needy children.
Bad actors figured out how to take advantage. Feeding Our Future recruited people to open more than 250 nutrition-program sites throughout Minnesota. These locations “fraudulently claimed to be serving meals to thousands of children a day within just days or weeks of being formed,” the Justice Department said in 2022 when announcing the first wave of defendants.
To enroll in the program, and to receive and launder proceeds of the scheme, the defendants “created dozens of shell companies” in attempts to hide their fraud, which included submitting fake documentation, the Justice Department alleged.
Alarm bells started ringing after officials saw how fast the program was expanding for Feeding Our Future. In 2021, the organization received and disbursed $200 million—59 times more than the $3.4 million it handled in 2019, pre-pandemic.
A 2024 special review, conducted by the Minnesota Office of the Legislative Auditor, found that the state Department of Education “failed to act on warning signs … prior to the start of the alleged fraud.” Those warning signs included numerous complaints and red flags raised about Feeding Our Future, which began operating in 2016. The department also did not enforce program requirements and “was ill-prepared” to take effective action, the report said.
The state’s education commissioner, Willie L. Jett II, defended his agency’s oversight of the programs. He said the agency reported suspicions and concerns to law enforcement.
“What happened with Feeding Our Future was a travesty—a coordinated, brazen abuse of nutrition programs that exist to ensure access to healthy meals for low-income children,” Jett said in the report, adding, “The responsibility for this flagrant fraud lies with the indicted and convicted fraudsters.”
Second scandal surfaces
Two months ago, the Justice Department released information on a separate scandal. It centers around millions in fraudulent Medicaid claims submitted through a program called Housing Stabilization Services. Eight initial defendants are accused, a Sept. 18 DOJ news release says.
In 2020, Minnesota became the first U.S. state to offer Medicaid coverage for finding and maintaining housing for senior citizens, people with disabilities, and those struggling with mental or substance-abuse disorders.
The program was intended to
combat homelessness.
But crooks gamed the system. They obtained names of eligible people from places such as addiction-treatment centers, then used that information to submit inflated, fake reimbursement claims, the Justice Department said.
The initial cost of the program was expected to be $2.6 million per year. But in 2021 alone, the program paid out nearly 10 times that amount, $21 million. That figure increased each year exponentially, reaching $104 million in 2024—nearly 40 times more than originally estimated.
Housing Stabilization Services ended Oct. 31 because of “largescale fraud,” the state Department of Human Services website says.
Third scheme targeted autism-care funding
Six days after announcing the Housing Stabilization Services accusations, Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph Thompson revealed c harges in a third major welfare-fraud case. In that case, a 28-year-old woman is accused of illegally reaping $14 million from an autism-care program.
Prosecutors say that, from 2019-2024, Asha Farhan Hassan and her associates would recruit parents to get their children checked for autism. Every recruited child got that diagnosis, the DOJ said, unlocking federal reimbursements.
In exchange for cooperating with the scheme, parents received a monthly “kickback” of $300 to $1,500 per child, depending on how much money the federal government authorized for that child, the DOJ said.
The defendant and her partners allegedly split their ill-gotten gains, and Hassan “sent hundreds of thousands of dollars in fraud proceeds abroad, some of which she used to purchase real estate in Kenya,” the DOJ said.
Hassan is also accused in the Feeding Our Future case—an example of the intertwined nature of the Minnesota scandals, the DOJ said.
During 2020-21, she “claimed to have served nearly 200,000 meals to children,” which was untrue, and fraudulently obtained $465,000 in Federal Child Nutrition Program funds, the DOJ said in its Sept. 24 news release. Massive caseload overwhelms DOJ prosecutors
Many more defendants are expected to be charged in the latest two scandals, whose contributing factors have not yet been assessed.
Together, the three scandals “form a web that has stolen billions of dollars in taxpayer money,” Thompson said, lamenting
“schemes stacked upon schemes, draining resources meant for those in need.”
“I have spent my career as a fraud prosecutor and the depth of the fraud in Minnesota takes my breath away,” Thompson said in one of the recent news releases.
During a news conference in September, a reporter asked Thompson whether the DOJ was getting extra help to handle the workload.
He replied that a small, dedicated team was working “extra hard.”
“We can’t prosecute our way out of this problem. These cases are resource-intensive,” Thompson replied.
“But can we charge everyone? No,” he said.
State Rep. Walter Hudson called that “an astounding statement,” which means that “injustice will stand.”
“People are going to get away with this because there’s so much fraud, so much fraud, that they don’t have the capacity to administer justice in response,” Hudson said in a Sept. 22 video posted on X along with clips of Thompson’s remarks.
Are Somali terrorists benefiting?
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) said Nov. 21 that a new report revealed “truly disgusting” facts: “Millions in stolen Minnesota welfare dollars have been funneled to [Al-Shabab]— an ISIS-aligned TERROR group.”
Johnson, in comments on X, called the situation “a national security problem,” to which Americans deserve answers and accountability immediately.
His comments were linked to a report in City Journal, a publication of the Manhattan Institute for Policy Research.
A uthored by Ryan Thorpe and Christopher Rufo, the Nov. 20 investigative article alleges that millions of the Minnesota welfare-fraud dollars “have been sent back to Somalia, where they ultimately landed in the hands of the terror group [Al-Shabab].”
The article cites “federal counterterrorism sources,” and said, As one confidential source put it: ‘The largest funder of [AlShabab] is the Minnesota taxpayer.’”
In the article, Glenn Kerns, a retired Seattle police detective who worked 14 years on a federal terrorism task force, said a Somali money network runs from Seattle to Minneapolis.
Investigators noted a pattern: Somalis sending money to their native land were all U.S. welfare recipients, Kern said; people told law enforcement that they believed the money was reaped
from welfare fraud before being sent overseas. Regardless of whether the money was intended for Al-Shabab, that terrorist group was taking a cut from it, the article said.
Actions taken and requested
In the wake of those revelations, President Donald Trump on Nov. 21 halted temporary protected status—a deportation shield—for Somali immigrants in Minnesota.
A Somali-born congresswoman, Rep. Ihan Omar (D-Minn.), Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, and other Democrats criticized Trump’s action. The state’s attorney general, Keith Ellison, questioned the legality of the president’s move and said he was considering what options he might pursue in response.
Omar, along with other Somalis, gathered to protest Trump’s order at the State Capitol Rotunda on Nov. 24.
Republican delegations in Minnesota and in Congress called upon the new U.S. Attorney for Minnesota, Daniel Rosen, to see whether the stolen welfare money could have gone to foreign terrorists.
“If confirmed to be true, immediate action must be taken at the state and federal level to crack down on remittances and other payments that are making their way to terrorist organizations,” Minnesota state lawmakers said in a Nov. 24 letter to Rosen. “We are asking the DOJ to immediately launch an investigation into these claims so Minnesotans can have clarity as soon as possible.”
State Rep. Kristin Robbins, a Republican candidate for Minnesota governor, has said that she and her constituents are concerned that additional welfare programs have been defrauded, too, including food stamps and child-care assistance.
In an X post on Nov. 25, Robbins said she requested a full federal audit of the state’s welfare department months ago, and said she remained hopeful that the examination would be done.
Meanwhile, a third-party audit is already underway for some Department of Human Services Medicaid programs considered to be at high risk for fraud. Walz recently ordered a 90-day pause on payments for 14 programs that “have become the target of criminal activity.”
“If you attempt to defraud our public programs and steal taxpayer dollars out from under the people who need them most—you will be stopped, and you will be held accountable,” the governor said in an Oct. 29 news release.
Trump says he’s already picked Powell’s replacement as Federal Reserve Chair
Tom Ozimek The Epoch Times Reporter
President Donald Trump said on Nov. 30 that he has already decided on his pick to replace Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, adding that an announcement is forthcoming, but declining to identify his nominee.
“I know who I am going to pick, yeah,” Trump told reporters on Air Force One on his way back from Florida to Washington on Sunday.
When asked whether he would nominate National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett, the current frontrunner to replace Powell according to betting markets, Trump smiled and replied, “I’m not going to tell you, we’ll be announcing it.”
Trump appointed Powell to lead the Fed in 2017. The president has become increasingly critical of the central bank chief in recent months, however, repeatedly lambasting Powell and Fed policymakers for refusing to lower interest rates even though inflation has fallen substantially from its 2022 peak of 9 percent and signs of strain are emerging in the economy.
“Frankly, I would love to get the guy currently in there out
right now, but people are holding me back,” Trump remarked to reporters about Powell on Nov. 18 in the Oval Office. “He’s done a terrible job.”
Lowering interest rates would make borrowing cheaper and boost growth at a time when labor markets have cooled, and consumer confidence has slumped.
Trump has said on several occasions that he believes the Fed is stifling the economy by being too slow to cut rates. Powell and some other Fed policymakers have defended their interest rate decisions, saying that price pressures remain and more time is needed to determine that inflation is moving sustainably towards the central bank’s 2 percent target.
The Fed trimmed rates by a quarter point in September, its first cut since last year, and repeated the move in October, pushing the benchmark rate down to 3.75–4 percent. Whether the central bank cuts again in December is uncertain. While markets put the odds of another 25 basis point reduction at nearly 88 percent, Fed officials at their October meeting were split over another round of easing, struggling to reconcile signs of labor-market weakness with renewed inflation pressures.
With Powell’s term ending in May 2026, speculation has been building about his successor.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said previously that Trump had narrowed his search to five candidates: Hassett, BlackRock executive Rick Rieder, former Fed Governor Kevin Warsh, and Fed Board members Michelle Bowman and Christopher Waller.
Predictive markets have Hassett as the odds-on favorite, with a 72 percent chance of becoming the next Fed chief. This is followed by Warsh (11 percent), Waller (11 percent), Rieder (13 percent), and Bowman (1 percent).
Hassett has downplayed reports that he’s the front-runner to lead the Fed. Instead, in interviews on CBS News’ “Face the Nation” and on “Fox and Friends Weekend“ on Nov. 30, Hassett focused on market reactions to news that Trump is getting closer to announcing Powell’s replacement.
“Once it became clear that the president was getting closer to making a decision, the markets really celebrated, interest rates went down, we had one of our best Treasury auctions ever,” Hassett said on Fox.
“I think that the market expects
that there’s going to be a new person at the Fed, and they expect that President Trump’s going to pick a new one. And if he picks me, I’d be happy to serve.”
“I’m really honored to be amongst a group of really great
candidates,” Hassett told CBS.
“I think that the American people could expect President Trump to pick somebody who’s going to help them, you know, have cheaper car loans and easier access to mortgages at lower rates.”
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell speaks at a news conference following the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting in Washington on Oct. 29, 2025.
Madalina Kilroy/The Epoch Times
Families are thankful for Soboba turkey distribution events
Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians Special to Valley News
The Soboba Foundation once again supported local families through its annual Soboba Gives Back turkey distribution events for Hemet and San Jacinto Unified School District families. Families identified by school parent liaisons received vouchers and picked up their turkeys at drive-through events ahead of Thanksgiving.
Soboba Foundation President Andy Silvas said the event reflects the Foundation’s mission of giving back and strengthening the community.
The Hemet Unified distribution took place Nov. 19 at the district office parking lot, where 1,000 turkeys were handed out with help from about 70 volunteers, including school staff, law enforcement, and Soboba Foundation members. San Jacinto Unified served about 800 families during its Nov. 21 distribution at San Jacinto High School, with site liaisons from 16 schools helping identify recipients. An additional 200 turkeys were donated to local nonprofits and food pantries.
Volunteers said the event was especially meaningful, with many noting the gratitude and relief shown by families. School officials praised the effort and thanked the Soboba Foundation for its continued generosity and community support.
to
Soboba Foundation members are among the volunteers distributing turkeys at the Hemet Unified School District, Nov. 19. From left Albert Parcero, husband of Board Vice President Julie Arrietta-Parcero; Board President Andy Silvas; Board Secretary Joseph Placencia; and Board Member Daniel Valdez, who also serves as Tribal Council Sergeant-at-Arms.
Soboba Foundation and volunteers help with the turkey distribution event at San Jacinto High School, Nov. 21. From left, Board Secretary Joseph Placencia, Board Treasurer Dondi Silvas, Board Member Daniel Valdez, Board President Andy Silvas, Naomi Silvas, Bernadette Jones, Cyndi Lemke, and Andrew Vallejos. Valley News/ Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians photos
San Jacinto Unified School District Superintendent David Pyle, center, and Principal Ken Swanson, at right, wait for the next vehicles at the drivethrough turkey distribution event at San Jacinto High School, Nov. 21.
The school site liaison team from Hemet Unified School District volunteers to help things go smoothly at the annual Soboba Gives Back turkey distribution event.
[Left] Frozen turkeys, weighing 20-24 pounds each, wait to be unpacked and given to identified families during the Soboba Foundation’s annual turkey distribution event at Hemet Unified School District’s office, Nov. 19.
[Right] Volunteers await the next vehicle
arrive at the annual drive-through turkey distribution event at San Jacinto High School. From left, Joseph Placencia, Andrew Vallejos, Bernadette Jones, and Daniel Valdez.
