Vol. 78, No. 31 edition of the Idyllwild Town Crier newspaper

Another point of view

…PAGE A4

County roadwork planned for four

busy Idyllwild roads

By JP Crumrine Correspondent

Driving through Idyllwild for the rest of the summer will be different, if not difficult at times. As many know from the recent postal box fliers, Riverside County is planning extensive road work, mostly resurfacing, which will begin this month and continue into the last of October.

Motorists can expect lane closures during construction with flaggers assisting vehicles through the closures. Residential and business driveway access will remain open.

The first work is planned from early August, probably near Idyllwild School, and expected to continue through October at the entrance to Humber Park. But weather and other events could alter the schedule, Andrea Suarez, the county’s information consultant, stressed.

Four local and heavily trafficked roads and two locations will be involved. The roads are Saunders Meadows Drive, both North and South circle drives, and Fern Valley Road. The County Transportation Maintenance Yard and Lawler Lodge are the two specific locations where resurfacing will be done and may affect traffic passing near them.

Roads

All of the road work should begin this month on Saunders Meadow Road, which the county plans to reconstruct from Highway 243 to Clubhouse Drive, about half a mile in distance. Reconstruction involves “… completely removing all of the asphalt and replacing it,” according to Suarez.

The work on North and South circle drives is mostly resurfacing, which is only grinding out the top layer of asphalt and then repaving it.

The work along South Circle Drive will cover about 1.8 miles, from Highway 243 (just beyond Idyllwild School) to Pine Crest Avenue near Fern Valley. Most of the work on South Circle will be resurfacing but one section will need reconstruction in order to “reprofile and improve existing drainage,” the county’s transportation website indicated.

The county plans to resurface about .7 miles of North Circle Drive from Village Center Drive to the top at Pine Crest Avenue.

Fern Valley Road will be resurfaced from South Circle Drive to Humber Park, about 1.7 miles. However, just before the entrance to Humber Park, the county needs to construct a retaining wall below the road edge.

Currently, this is expected to occur in late October. Because of the equipment and narrow area, the county will need to close access to Humber Park for vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians for about two weeks when this portion of the work commences. Also, parking will not be permitted on Fern Valley Road during the closure.

When this occurs, the U.S. Forest Service will post signs on the Pacific Crest Trail, especially at the juncture with Devil’s Slide Trail, so hikers will know they can still get into town for food, rest or mail via the Ernie Maxwell Trail, which has access in the Humber Park parking lot.

A wildfire near Saunders Meadow and May Valley roads Thursday afternoon is under investigation. It burned less than 5 acres and was quickly extinguished. The U.S. Forest Service and Idyllwild Fire Station crews, along with helicopters, helped get the blaze under containment quickly.

Local property assessments grow

By JP Crumrine Correspondent

Last week, Peter Aldana, Riverside County’s assessor-county clerk-recorder, announced that the county’s total real estate assessment valuation has exceeded $400 billion for the first time. The 2023 assessment of $404 billion is $35 billion more than the 2022 total.

Real estate assessments’ growth on the Hill was greater but below the countywide increase of 9.6%. The assessed value for all Hill properties contributed to the overall county increase of $35 billion.

The greatest percentage increase was in Mountain Center real estate. This year, the total real estate assessment in Mountain Center was $21.2 million, an increase of 10.4%. This compares to a 1% increase in 2021-22.

Residential property, valued at $16.3 million, is the largest component of the Mountain Center total. This represents 48 parcels. Three valuations were between $1 million and $3 million. Another three properties were assessed between $750,000 and $1 million. Forty-four properties were valued at $300,000 and lower. Twelve vacant parcels, assessed at $1.6 million, were the second largest.

Idyllwild and Pine Cove have 5,341 properties with a total assessed value of $1.4 billion, which was an increase of 8.5%. In the previous year, the Idyllwild and Pine Cove total assessed value grew 10.4%. Over the past four years, the total value of real estate assessments in Idyllwild and Pine Cove has grown 7.5%.

Residential property has the greatest assessed value of $1.2 billion in these communities. Commercial properties, of which there are 153, have been assessed at $108.5 million.

In the Idyllwild and Pine Cove neighborhoods, one parcel assessed at between $10 million and $50 million Another assessed at between $5 million and $10 million and 75 between $1 million and $5 million. At the lower end of the assessed valuations, 3,458 properties were at $300,000 and lower.

Garner Valley’s total real estate assessments were $219.1 million. This area had the lowest percentage increase of assessed valuation of Hill communities. This year the total valuation grew 4.9% and an average increase of 4.6% in the past four years.

The 372 residential properties, valued at $164.7 million, were the largest component. However, six commercial properties had a valuation of $33.8 million. And 84 vacant parcels were valued at $9.8 million.

The total assessment for three properties was between $5 million and $50 million. The 27 properties had valuations between $1 million and $3 million. More than 200 parcels had assessment valuation between $300,000 and $1 million and another 259 properties were valued at $300,000 or less.

Aldana’s news release provided information for property owners who may have questions. A review of the 2023 assessment roll value is available on the Riverside County Assessor’s public access online services website at ca-riverside-acr.publicaccessnow.com/ or by calling (951) 955-6200.

For concerns about a valuation, owners may file a free decline-in-value application online at ca-riverside-acr.publicaccessnow.com/E-Forms/DeclineinValueApplication. aspx. The decline-in-value objections are due by Nov. 1.

Property owners also may request a formal hearing before the Assessment Appeals Board. The deadline to file is Nov. 30. The application is available on the clerk of the board’s website at aao.countyofriverside.us/.

For more information, visit www.rivcoacr.org

…PAGE B5

Steele to play at Greenbrier

Record heat temperatures cover the Hill

By JP Crumrine Correspondent

Hot, hot weather was coming to California, many forecast in the middle of July. And that has proven true. While some cooler temperatures are expected this week, Sunday, July 30, the National Weather Service (NWS) forecast was, “Heat is likely to return again by next weekend.”

In the past two weeks, Idyllwild has suffered five record high temperature readings — four for maximum temperatures and one for a minimum. Saturday, July 15, a three-digit temperature of 100 degrees was recorded, This was 3 degrees greater than the previous high of 97,

which occurred July 15, 2003.

About a week later, on Friday, July 21, the temperature only reached 95 degrees in Idyllwild. This was a degree higher than the previous high of 94, which occurred 63 years ago in 1960.

Six days later on Thursday, July 27, the 94-degree high tied the previous high set only five years ago in 2018. Idyllwild Fire Station and Keenwild Ranger Station also recorded 94-degree highs that day.

Then, only two days later, two record-high temperatures were set. Another 95-degree day was a degree greater than the high temperature July 29, 2016. But Keenwild only got to 94 degrees. However, the nighttime temperature fell to 65 degrees, which tied the pre-

vious minimum high for July 29, which occurred in 2021. This heat was not dissipating quickly. Sunday, NWS issued another heat advisory for the Hill. While some monsoonal rains may abet the cooling early this week, NWS stressed that “a preponderance” of its models predict hot weather will return by the first weekend of August. Monday morning’s long-term forecast said, “a warm-up over the weekend, sending daytime highs back above normal, at least for a few days. This is followed by cooling again next week.”

In anticipation, both the county and the state posted warnings and suggestions for dealing with the temperatures. The state created a website, heatreadyca.com/.

Local roadwork

Continued from A1

Locations

At the county Transportation Maintenance Yard, which is at the intersection of Johnson Road and Maranatha Drive, the work will involve reconstructing the maintenance yard, as well as Johnson Road, and improving the existing drainage.

At Lawler Lodge and Alpine Cabins on Highway 243, interior roads, access roads and the parking area also are set to be repaved.

The approximate cost for all the roadwork is $5.1 million.

For more information before and during the project work, a Construction Hotline (877-277-5343) is available to call. Also ,Riverside County Transportation has a website with project information at: rcprojects.org/ Idyllwild.

Idyllwild Weather

IFPD busy with fire abatement and wildfires

By David Jerome Idyllwild

The Idyllwild Fire Protection District (IFPD) Board of Commissioners met July 25.

Secretary Rhonda Andrewson was unable to attend, but participated through Zoom, as did Legal Counsel Stephen Graham. Also present were 18 members of IFPD’s Crew 621.

Chief Mark LaMont noted that having legal counsel participate in meetings gives the district a discount with its liability insurance. He also explained the changing post-pandemic rules for Zoom meetings. A state law effective Jan. 1, 2023, changed how Zoom can be used at Brown Act compliant meetings. A board member must have a “qualified” or “justified” reason for their absence. Contagious illness, family caregiving, and travel on district business qualify, but just being on vacation does not.

Without a qualified reason, they cannot vote, or add to a quorum, but can have their “intention to vote” yes or no entered into the record. If they are voting, their physical address must be open to the public and posted 72 hours in advance, and a witness must sit with them.

President Dan Messina described a visit to the Thomas Mountain control burn, calling the visit “very educational” and the operation “textbook” and “going perfect.”

Commissioner Henry Sawicki used his report to discuss a family matter that the district has become involved in. Three years ago, his son-in-law, Steve Smith, was working as an electrical lineman and fell 40 feet. He survived, undergoing “numerous therapies at numerous facilities.” At this point he is reentering active life, and the workers comp process encourages volunteer work to rebuild the structure of everyday working life, but allow for setbacks. So, Smith has begun volunteer work with IFPD. Sawicki wished to extend his family’s thanks and express gratitude to LaMont, the full-time firefighters, and the crew members for furthering his son-in-law’s recovery. LaMont called the opportunity to help “a blessing.”

Commissioner Stephanie Yost began by thanking IFPD for sending a fire truck to the Idyllwild Summer Concert Series at the Butterfield Amphitheater. She noted that the personnel were very helpful, although the truck had to be moved three times to find the right spot. Concert-goers, she said, “enjoyed the flag” suspended from the truck’s ladder. Yost also raised the issue of the prayer or invocation that, after the “Pledge of Allegiance,” precedes IFPD commissioners’ meetings. Would it be possible to have faith leaders from the community rotate through this activity to provide some “diversity?” She offered to reach out to various community faith leaders to facilitate this. LaMont said IFPD has a chaplain, Don Hales, who is presently unavailable and may be stepping down. He is

talking with individuals who might take that position. LaMont made his report. He explained that the members of Crew 621 arrayed around the perimeter of the meeting room were about half of the full crew. He mentioned the “whirlwind” of training to “onboard” them. Some already had fire academy training, but all are “better off for the experience and education.”

During the meeting, the crew was called to an incident; dry lightning in Garner Valley had sparked a vegetation fire.

LaMont listed recent mutual aid calls to fires; Johnson in Thermal, Ramona in Hemet, Rabbit near Gilman Springs Road, Ave 66 in Mecca and Highland in Banning. Fuels reduction projects included one near Lake Elsinore and the Thomas Mountain control burn.

He recently met with Chief Mike Noble of the San Bernardino National Forest. The San Bernardino heat index is a primary concern. LaMont told the board that the prediction was for three more days at 105°, two at 104°, and finally a period at 100°. At that point, perhaps as early as Saturday night, (the 29th) the district’s “prepositioning strategy” was to be reexamined.

Presently, IFPD is keeping three engines fully staffed and pre-positioned at Alandale, Kenworthy and Keenwild ranger stations. The crews, 43 people, are there from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week, and return to Camp Maranatha for meals and sleeping. LaMont expressed thanks to Camp Maranatha for its part in making this possible. This is another aspect of IFPD’s Mutual Aid agreement operations: as well as providing an extra ring of early response protecting the communities. It is a source of income. This year the excess of revenue over expenditures was 48% higher than expected, over $657,000. Projects like the Thomas Mountain burn and the Cleveland National Forest burn are part of a growing network of cooperation to make “all of our communities fire safe.” He is “currently working on a participation agreement with USFS that will allow us to go out and treat several thousand acres in the San Bernardino, Cleveland and Angeles national forests.” Annual abatement inspections have been completed, with 121 properties failing. The day before, IFPD began a “big push” to re-inspect the failed properties. Citations can include a $1,000 fine. “I don’t want to cite anyone. What I want is to have partnerships.” The district does not have the resources to abate all the property in the jurisdiction, but “if you need help, call us,” La Mont added, “The only way we can survive another big fire is to get the abatement done.”

Yost asked about the timing of the inspection process. LaMont responded that the process began late this year due to snow on the ground in April. There are five stages to the process, described by ordinance, and each takes weeks. The first stage generally begins by April 15th, but this is not “by ordinance.” He reiterated that people who have questions should call IFPD’s non-emergency office number. “We will send someone

out” to explain what the inspectors want to see. “We will work with people” to find solutions. Sawicki noted that this year there are 36 fewer failed inspections than last year. Andrewson added that “anyone who lives in the mountain area and does not get the concept of abatement should not be living there.”

LaMont reported on the new communications site (fully operational, still awaiting a few pieces of repeater equipment) and the visit by a Riverside County grand jury. The district expects to host these visits every two years. They jury members were briefed on budget, policy, Brown Act compliance and operations. The visit included a field trip. The grand jury used information from the visit to write a paper about ambulance patient offload delays. LaMont described the visit as “enjoyable.”

The district completed the purchase of a new pickup truck, a Dodge Ram 3500. The price came down from the budgeted $65,000 to $60,000 after some “armwrestling” with the dealer and the builder providing the outfitting.

The board approved financials for May and June showing a year-to-date excess of revenue over expenditures of over $485,000, almost five times what was expected. The board also voted on a pro forma item: the annual reaffirmation that the district’s Unit Fee or Parcel Fee Assessment on improved property ($65 per “unit”) is in compliance with Prop 218. It also voted to request the county advance $400,000 on taxes collected by the county on behalf of the district.

As in previous months, the board’s packet includes a number of items of “correspondence.” These are brief notes or longer letters thanking IFPD for services rendered. One elderly resident thanked IFPD for helping them after a fall, and included what LaMont called a large donation. Another thanked IFPD for its response when a local youngster, who had suffered many health challenges, died. This note came with sandwiches.

Hemet Fire’s chief sent thanks after IFPD manned one of its stations so on duty crew could attend a memorial service for a city council member. Other brief notes said “Thank you for saving my life,” and “Idy would be lost without you guys.” LaMont also noted a letter from Astro Camp’s director, Michelle Peterson, who is moving away. The letter thanked IFPD for 12 years working together and included a recipe for the biscotti that have accompanied previous correspondence.

The board discussed possible dates for an IFPD fundraising spaghetti dinner and possibly a hoe down. Idyllwild Pines has no Saturdays available, so the dinner would have to be on a Friday or Sunday, and may be pushed into November. LaMont also noted that National Night Out, a community-building event for law enforcement and first responders, was to happen Tuesday, Aug. 1, at the Lake Hemet station.

Commissioner Dennis Fogle asked that the agenda for the September board meeting include a consideration of personnel bonuses.

U.S. Forest Service and Idyllwild Fire crews work together laying hose and building hand lines to suppress a wildfire Thursday afternoon in Mountain Center near May Valley Road. PHOTO BY IDYLLWILD FIRE CHIEF MARK LAMONT

How to get a letter published

The Town Crier welcomes letters reflecting all opinions.

• Letters should be concise and to the point.

• They should be no longer than 600 words.

• Letters must be typewritten, double-spaced and in upper/ lower case (not in all caps).

• Letters must be identified with the author’s name, address and weekday phone number.

• The Town Crier will not publish

“thank-you” letters, consumer complaints, form letters, clippings from other publications or poetry.

• Political letters during election season cost 10 cents per word but are not accepted the week before an election.

• We reserve the right to reject or edit letters for length, taste, clarity or frequency of submission.

Another point

Dear editor:

of view

By Dennis McGuire soon to celeBrate BeinG a 50-year, full-tiMe resiDent

Residents, regular visitors, and home, cabin, and property owners, to whom it may concern, hoping that it concerns everyone:

Stick with me if you can, as the Arizona Republic and USA Today are about to add an exclamation point to the case some of us have been making now for a couple of years with regards to short-term rentals (STR) on this mountain, how many of them there are and where they are.

In her recent letters to the editor, Kristy Frazier has made the case clearly enough about the limited fire evacuation options we have here, and I have experienced what she and her family has.

I was in Pine Cove for and part of the mandatory evacuation for the Soboba Fire of August 1974 and from the deck I was working on, I was able to watch that fire grow all day and into the night. Ditto for the Bee Canyon Fire that took off just before the July 4 weekend in 1996. And lucky we were that the fire didn’t show up four days later with an extra 10,000 people up here. Ditto for the Mountain Fire of July 2013 when the fire worked its way around the back of Tahquitz Peak and threatened to spill down into Fern Valley like a lava flow. Ditto for the Cranston Fire of July-August 2018 when if there had been some wind from the west behind it, it could have rolled through the Banana Belt. And we were here for the Fairview Fire that started on Labor Day of last year down the mountain south of Valle Vista, though if the winds hadn’t been consistently out of the northeast and east, that fire might not have wound up roiling its way around the back of Rouse Ridge, but headed up here instead.

And for those of you who like to see things mapped out, I recommend you visit “DataBasin.org” and then to “California Fire Perimeters,” where you can see all the fires I mentioned mapped, and those that threatened and affected Idyllwild in 1943 and in 1914. The people at Cal Fire did an amazing job putting this together. But if you are doing the math, then you’ll note that the fires threatening us are showing up more often.

Which brings me to an analysis of the wildfire risks to nearly 5,000 mountain communities in the Southwestern and western United States, put together not long after the Camp Fire of 2018 destroyed the mountain community of Paradise, California.

If you type into “search” “The Arizona Republic and USA Today Publish Major Data Analysis of Wildfire Risks,” and then when you get to the USA Today overview page, you send your mouse to the “Ahead of the Fire” line, you will arrive at the deepest dive into a subject that you have never seen, read and experienced — and if you scroll down and down, you will come to a fine overview of Idyllwild, and with a fine 2019 interview with Mark Yardas from the Idyllwild Forest Health Project. Though you can cut to the chase and go to the image below, where you will see that on a 1 to 5 rating scale, with 5 being the most at risk, Paradise had a fire risk rating of 3.81 and Idyllwild has a fire risk rating of 4.81.

Now, of the 500 mountain communities that have a worse rating than Paradise, six have a worse rating than we do, though only six. And why have we received such a terrible rating? It’s not because we don’t have great fire departments with support in depth, it’s because IdyllwildPine Cove has one, two-lane through-road and only one. So, only two ways out of here by car. Paradise, with a larger full-time population, had six, though three of them were unusable within an hour, and some of us have been here when we were reduced to just one exit route.

The only rational conclusion to be reached from all of this is obvious: not one mountain community in the west-

• Only one letter per author within a 14-day period.

• Letters do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Town Crier staff.

• Letters may be submitted by e-mail to editor@towncrier.com and must include “Letter to the Editor” in the subject line.

• The deadline is 10 a.m. Monday.

ern United States should be looking to intensify its use, except maybe in the winter, especially the 500 with a worse fire rating than Paradise, and especially Idyllwild-Pine Cove (not meaning to slight Mountain Center). And yet, that is exactly what we on this mountain have been doing by allowing STRs to be located everywhere and still with no limit on how many are to be allowed.

For over two years now, I have been pressing the county Planning Department, the county fire marshal, and the county board of supervisors to, at the least, limit these STRs to county-maintained roads, meaning ones that meet county standards in width, so that a fire truck can drive up or down that road while other vehicles are escaping, and if it is a road with a cul de sac, then that cul de sac also has to be to county standards, thus allowing a full-sized fire truck to easily and safely turn around there.

And further, even if an STR house or a cabin is off a county-maintained road, its access should meet the 2020 county fire marshal fire access requirements for new house construction: 100 feet to the dwelling from where a fire truck will park, no more than 150 feet from the roadway, along a 15-foot-wide driveway with a 13% slope up or down (not a very steep slope).

And what’s the worst case scenario for those houses and cabins that cannot meet this criteria? One obvious option is that they become month-to-month rentals. For over a year, I and a close friend of ours looked for such a rental and couldn’t find one, not one. Now that COVID is not as rampant and (post vaccines) not as deadly as before, some of those are showing up and for monthly rates much higher than in years past.

And I don’t know about any of you, but I would trust someone who actually lives here to be more considerate of our fire danger than someone who is coming up for a fun few days, maybe even as part of a large group for a party weekend. We’re already at greater risk of fire than we were 20 or 40 years ago and we should be looking for ways to mitigate that risk, not intensify it.

And for those who see this mountain and this town primarily as an exploitable resource, consider the following: No one’s vested self interest or investment will be enhanced if some swath of the community and this valley burns.

When I started working in 1976 with Spark Schnitzer, Ernie Maxwell, Charles Carey, and John Wanmaker, and especially with Kay Ceniceros, first as our point person at the Planning Department and then as our county supervisor, we all wanted to find ways to limit the growth of Idyllwild-Pine Cove. And in our presumptuousness, we thought that given the nature of this place, a mountain valley that in most states of this country would be a national park (we know why our valley is often referred to as “the Yosemite Valley of Southern California’’), maybe there should be one town in Southern California that wasn’t like every other town, maybe there should be one town with no sidewalks or street lights of consequence, no stop lights, no condominiums or medium rise hotels, no name brands (though we did once have a Chart House). And maybe that community should be this one.

In those days, the county planners could see that Riverside County was going to experience tremendous growth and that in a mostly desert county, this mountain was a jewel, one to be preserved and as a place, a place that people down below could escape to, a place for renewal, a place to take a hike, a place to lean against a tree or a granite outcrop and read a book, a place to relax. And those of us who lived here then knew that we were privileged to live in a place like this, and we saw protecting the mountain and preserving the small town feel of Idyllwild as worthy goals. And the county supported those goals, which is why, to give one example, the Fort in the center of town is not a three-story wall against the street, with a two-story parking lot behind it. Some of you will remember that fight and the Town Hall meetings that went with it.

The forest I am looking out at now is so much denser than when I moved here in late 1973. It’s very beautiful, but I can’t help thinking that every one of those tall pines and cedars need to have all their lower limbs removed, so a fire will not get up into their canopies, which is not something I was thinking about in the early 1970s.

Let us pay close attention, as there will one day be another fire and another evacuation, and avoiding reality is not a survival strategy.

Subject: “The Arizona Republic and USA Today Publish Major Data Analysis of Wildfire Risks,” Aug. 16, 2019.

Interactive project “Ahead of the Fire” helps people understand wildfires risks for thousands of communities in Western states: www.usatoday.com/story/news/ pr/2019/08/16/arizona-republic-and-usa-today-publish-major-data-analysis-wildfire-risks/2029833001/

Jury trial reset in Solis’ sex charges case

By Becky Clark Editor

Local restaurateur Luis Solis Delgado, 44, of Idyllwild, had his jury trial moved to Aug. 11 in the Riverside County Superior Court after it was moved from July 14 and then to July 25.

He is incarcerated at the Southwest Detention Center on $5 million bail.

He is charged with eight felony sex charges involving two minor female children beginning in August 2015 and ending Wednesday, April 26, 2023, the day before he was arrested. One of the felonies has an enhancement that the victim was particularly vulnerable, which he has denied. He has pleaded not guilty to all eight felony charges. He faces life imprisonment if found guilty.

Composter volunteers needed

Are you interested in helping the environment? Do you like to compost or recycle? Become an outreach volunteer with the Riverside County Department of Waste Resources and help the earth by helping others become better recyclers and composters.

Outreach volunteers assist with classes or events by interacting with the public, answering questions on outreach programs and distributing materials. The ideal volunteer enjoys meeting people, likes to learn new things and is passionate about the environment. The total volunteer commitment is attendance at the orientation and training meeting, and 10 hours of volunteer time donated each year while participating in the program.

Opportunities to volunteer at classes and events exist across the entire county. Plus, the volunteers select the events, dates and times that work best for them. Bilingual volunteers are needed.

Outreach volunteers also can choose to attend extra training and volunteer more hours to become certified as a master composter. Once a volunteer reaches master composter status, the volunteer is allowed to teach classes on their own or work with schools and community gardens as a composting mentor.

Orientation and training is from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Aug. 5, at the Riverside County Department of Waste Resources, 14310 Frederick Street, Moreno Valley.

For more information or to register, visit www.rcwaste. org/volunteer or call 951-486-3200.

New feature on Caltrans app

Caltrans launched a new push notification feature on its QuickMap app that allows drivers to automatically receive real-time notifications about nearby road closures, emergencies and other traffic updates.

“With this new QuickMap upgrade, Californians now can receive instant traffic notifications based on their location,” said Caltrans Director Tony Tavares. “Drivers can use this information to adjust their plans when needed, compare route options, save time and travel safely to their destinations.”

QuickMap is a mobile app and website available to the public at no cost for travel planning.

When a device with the QuickMap app enters an area within 10 miles of a road closure or other traffic-related event, a pop-up message will appear alerting travelers of the incident, including time, location and reason for closure.

Caltrans reminds drivers to use their mobile device responsibly, including only in hands-free mode when operating a vehicle.

For more information, and to use the new feature, download the QuickMap app onto your phone or visit QuickMap. dot.ca.gov.

Asset limit increased for Medi-Cal

July 1, a new law in California increased the asset limits for Medi-Cal programs requiring an asset determination. This will improve the quality of life of many vulnerable residents in Riverside County.

These programs provide health care for adults ages 65 and over, individuals with disabilities, and residents of long-term care facilities whose eligibility is partially based on a determination of their countable assets. These increased limits will allow more applicants to become eligible for Medi-Cal benefits statewide.

The asset limits increased from $2,000 to $130,000 for a single person. For a couple, it has gone from $3,000 to $195,000. For each added person in the household, the limit rose to $65,000.

In California, assets are also known as resources or property, which can include cash, checking or savings accounts, or vehicles.

Applicants who were previously denied Medi-Cal or terminated due to being above asset limits during the 90 days before the effective date of change (July 1) will be notified and encouraged to reapply. Those already enrolled in Medi-Cal will not have to take any action.

In January of 2024, the asset test will be eliminated completely for these Medi-Cal programs.

Editor’s note: Organizations, please read your listings carefully and email becky@towncrier.com with any changes.

Wednesday, Aug. 2

• Rotary International of Idyllwild meeting, 7:30 a.m. American Legion Post 800, 54360 Marian View Dr.

• Codependents Anon, noon. St. Hugh’s Episcopal Church, 25525 Tahquitz Dr.

• Fit After 50, noon-1 p.m. Town Hall, 25925 Cedar St.

• Idyllwild Elders, 1-2 p.m. Idyllwild Library, 54401 Village Center Dr.

Thursday, Aug. 3

• Fit After 50, 10-11 a.m. Town Hall, 25925 Cedar St.

• Idyllwild Historic Preservation District Local Review Board, noon. Idyllwild Library, 54401 Village Center Dr.

• AA discussion & birthdays, noon. St. Hugh’s Episcopal Church, 25525 Tahquitz Dr.

• Mountain Communities Mutual Aid food distribution, 1-2 p.m. Camp Maranatha, 54162 Maranatha Dr.

• Idyllwild Community Zen, 6 p.m. Text/call Valerie Velez at 951-392-6507 for information.

Friday, Aug. 4

• Idy A’s (AA, NA, Alanon, CODA, etc.), noon. St. Hugh’s Episcopal Church, 25525 Tahquitz Dr.

• Women’s Writing Group with fellow writers, 2-4 p.m. Spirit Mountain Retreat. Call 951659-2523 for Zoom info.

Saturday, Aug. 5

• American Legion Post 800 meeting, 10 a.m. Post 800, 54360 Marian View Dr.

• Healing Rooms, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Shiloh Christian Ministries, 54295 Village Center Dr. AA, discussion, noon, St.

Hugh’s Episcopal Church, 25525 Tahquitz Dr.

• Dog Park Saturdays, 3-4 p.m. Rick Barker Dog Park, 26375 Hwy. 243.

• Narcotics Anonymous, 4 p.m. St. Hugh’s Episcopal Church, 25525 Tahquitz Dr. or Zoom. Call Mary, 951-634-4048.

• AA happy hour & birthdays,

NEWS OF RECORD

Idyllwild Fire

The Idyllwild Fire Protection District responded to these calls from Sunday to Saturday, July 23 to 29.

• July 23 — Good intent call, 4:11 p.m. Hwy. 243 & Stonewood Canyon Rd.

• July 23 — Good intent call, 8:58 p.m. Cedar St.

• July 23 — Rescue & EMS, 9:15 p.m. Saunders Meadow Rd.

• July 23 — Walk-in rescue & EMS, 11:15 p.m.

• July 24 — Walk-in service call, 10:05 a.m.

• July 24 — Walk-in rescue & EMS, 3:25 p.m.

• July 24 — Good intent call, 9:17 p.m. Hwy. 243.

• July 25 — Good intent call, 10:08 a.m. Unknown location.

• July 25 — Rescue & EMS, 6:16 p.m. Fern Valley Rd.

• July 28 — Walk-in rescue & EMS, 9:52 a.m.

• July 30 — Rescue & EMS, 11:52 a.m. Hwy. 243.

• July 18 — Service call, 1:30 p.m. Pine Crest Ave.

• July 19 — Service call, 8:02 p.m. Hwy. 243.

• July 20 — Rescue & EMS,11:50 a.m. Cassler Dr.

• July 20 — Rescue & EMS, 12:50 p.m. Hwy. 243.

• July 21 — Walk-in Rescue &

EMS, 5:59 p.m.

• July 21 — Rescue & EMS,11:13 p.m. Hwy. 74.

• July 22 — Good intent call, 3:41 a.m. Hwy. 74.

• July 22 — Rescue & EMS, 5:55 p.m.

• July 23 — Good intent call, 4:11 p.m. Hwy. 243.

• July 23 — Good intent call, 8:58 p.m. Cedar St.

• July 23 — Walk-in rescue & EMS, 11:15 p.m.

Riverside County Fire/ Cal Fire log

The Riverside County Fire Department/Cal Fire responded to these recent dispatches from Monday to Sunday, July 24 to 30.

Pine Cove

• July 24 — Breathing problems, 9:17 p.m.

• July 25 — Assist with fire, 3:44 p.m.

• July 27 — Hemorrhage, 3:26 p.m.

• July 27 — Assist with fire, 3:31 p.m.

• July 28 — Unknown medical, 12:38 a.m.

• July 28 — Traffic crash, unknown situation, 4:17 p.m.

• July 28 — Sick person, 8:08 p.m.

• July 29 — Vegetation fire, 12:13 a.m.

• July 29 — Fainting, 12:48 p.m.

5:30-6:30 p.m. Behind Idyllwild Water District, 54255 Pine Crest Ave. (bring chair)

Sunday, Aug. 6

• Peace Meditation Practice, 10 a.m. Tibetan Buddhist Dharma Center, 53191 Mountain View, Pine Cove.

• AA, discussion, noon, Idyllwild Water District, 25945 Hwy. 243. Mixed Nuts, 5:30-7 p.m., Spirit Mountain Retreat, 25661 Oakwood St.

Monday, Aug. 7

• Friends of the Idyllwild Library board meeting, 9:30-11 a.m. Library, 54401 Village Center Dr.

• Fit After 50, noon-1 p.m. Town Hall, 25925 Cedar St.

• Codependents Anon, 6 p.m. Zoom. Call Mary, 951-6344048.

Tuesday, Aug. 8

• Fit After 50, 10-11 a.m. Town Hall, 25925 Cedar St.

• Mountain Quilters of Idyllwild, 10 a.m. Calvary Chapel Mountain Center, 29430 Highway 243, Mountain Center.

• Tai Chi for Seniors, 10 a.m. Spirit Mountain Retreat, 25661 Oakwood St.

Garner Valley

• July 24 — Sick person, 9:08 a.m.

• July 25 — Traffic crash, unknown situation, 10:02 a.m.

• July 25 — Traffic crash, extrication, 2:26 p.m.

• July 25 — Assist with fire, 3:44 p.m.

• July 26 — Chest pain, 4:39 p.m.

• July 27 — Breathing problems, 11:44 a.m.

• July 27 — Vegetation fire, 2:49 p.m.

• July 27 — Assist with fire, 3:31 p.m.

• July 28 — Sick person, 8:08 p.m.

• July 29 — Vegetation fire, 12:13 a.m.

• July 29 — Fainting, 12:49 p.m.

Pinyon

• July 27 — Vegetation fire, 6:49 p.m.

• July 29 — Vegetation fire, 7:3 a.m.

Sheriff’s log

The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department Hemet Station responded to the following calls Monday to Sunday, July 24 to 30.

Idyllwild

• July 24 — Check the welfare, 3:45 a.m. 25000 block of Hwy. 243. Handled by deputy.

• July 24 — Alarm call, 9:24 a.m. N. Circle Dr. Handled by deputy.

• July 24 — Public disturbance, 9:46 a.m. 54000 block of Village Center Dr. Handled by deputy.

• AA, noon. St. Hugh’s Episcopal Church, 25525 Tahquitz Dr.

• Death Cafe, 2-4 p.m. Spirit Mountain Hill House, 25661 Oakwood St..

• Lovingkindness Meditation Group, 5-5:30 p.m. Spirit Mountain Retreat, 25661 Oakwood St. Call 951-659-2523.

• Al-Anon, 7 p.m. Town Hall, 25925 Cedar Street.

Wednesday, Aug. 9

• Rotary International of Idyllwild meeting, 7:30 a.m. American Legion Post 800, 54360 Marian View Dr. Pine Cove Water District board meeting, 10 a.m. PCWD, 24917 Marion Ridge Rd., Pine Cove.

• Grief Support Group, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Spirit Mountain Retreat, 25661 Oakwood St.

• Codependents Anon, noon. St. Hugh’s Episcopal Church, 25525 Tahquitz Dr.

• Fit After 50, noon-1 p.m. Town Hall, 25925 Cedar St. Community Church Guild, 2 p.m. Idyllwild Community Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall, 54400 N. Circle Dr.

• Idyllwild Chapter of Citizens’ Climate Lobby, 6 p.m. Zoom link will be sent to those who

• July 24 — Danger to self/other, 11:18 p.m. N. Circle Dr. Report taken.

• July 25 — Trespassing, 10:40 a.m. Address undefined. Handled by deputy.

• July 25 — Suicide threat, 3:53 p.m. Address withheld. Handled by deputy.

• July 25 — Vandalism, 6:54 p.m. 54000 block of Marian View Dr. Handled by deputy.

• July 25 — Battery, 8:57 p.m. Address undefined. Handled by deputy.

• July 26 — Follow-up, 9:20 a.m. Address withheld. Handled by deputy.

• July 26 — Follow-up, 10:22 a.m. Address withheld. Handled by deputy.

• July 26 — Check the welfare, 3:34 p.m. 25000 block of Hwy. 243. Handled by deputy.

• July 26 — Barking dog, 10:23 p.m. 25000 block of Manzanita Dr. Handled by deputy.

• July 27 — Noise complaint, 10:08 p.m. 25000 block of Glen Rd. Handled by deputy.

• July 28 — Area check, 7:32 a.m. N. Circle Dr. Handled by deputy.

• July 28 — Danger to self/other, 8:27 a.m. N. Circle Dr. Report taken.

• July 28 — Battery, 11:48 p.m. 54000 block of S. Circle Dr. Handled by deputy.

• July 29 — Follow-up, 1:46 p.m. Address withheld. Handled by deputy.

• July 29 — Alarm call, 4:29 p.m. 25000 block of Hwy. 243. Handled by deputy.

• July 29 — Public disturbance, 10:11 p.m. 54000 block of S. Circle Dr. Handled by deputy.

sign up at https://citizensclimatelobby.org/. Community service hours

• California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (bark beetle issues), 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Fri. Mountain Resource Center, 25380 Franklin Dr., 659-3335.

• Idyllwild Area Historical Museum, 54470 N. Circle Dr., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Fri., Sat. & Sun. (Mon. holidays.) Group tours by appt. 659-2717.

• Idyllwild Help Center, 26330 Hwy. 243, 10 a.m.-noon & 1-4 p.m. Tues.-Fri. 659-2110.

• Idyllwild Library, 54401 Village Center Dr., Strawberry

• July 24 — Check the welfare, 3:45 a.m. 25000 block of Hwy. 243. Handled by deputy.

• July 31 — Alarm call, 4:40 a.m. 24000 block of Upper Rim Rock Rd. Handled by deputy.

Mountain Center

• July 27 — Missing person, 5:42 p.m. 52000 block of E. Hwy. 74. Handled by deputy.

Pine Cove

• July 24 — Missing person, 5:42 p.m. 25000 block of Rosaline Rd. Report taken.

• July 25 — Battery, 9:39 a.m. 23000 block of Hwy. 243. Handled by deputy.

• July 26 — Follow-up, 9:19 a.m.

Address withheld. Handled by deputy.

• July 26 — Follow-up, 4:01 p.m.

Address withheld. Handled by deputy.

• July 27 — Follow-up, 8:52 p.m.

Address withheld. Handled by deputy.

• July 28 — 911 call, 5:45 a.m. 53000 block of Overlook Dr. Handled by deputy.

• July 28 — Alarm call, 6:42 a.m. 24000 block of Sherman Dr/coulter Dr. Handled by deputy.

• July 28 — Alarm call, 9:29 a.m. 24000 block of Sherman. Handled by deputy.

• July 29 — 911 call, 5:50 p.m. 53000 block of Overlook Dr. Handled by deputy.

• July 30 — Vandalism, 8:45 a.m. 52000 block of Sylvan Wy. Report taken.

• July 28 — 911 call, 5:45 a.m.

Town Crier Membership Application:

NAME(S): _________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Creek Plaza, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Mon., Wed.; noon-8 p.m. Tues.; noon-5 p.m. Thurs. & Fri.; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat., 6592300.

• Idyllwild Nature Center, 25225 Hwy. 243, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Wed.-Sun. 659-3850.

• Idyllwild Ranger Station, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Fri.-Mon., 8 a.m.noon Tues.

• Idyllwild Transfer Station, 28100 Saunders Meadow Rd., 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Thurs.-Mon. (Closed New Year’s Day, Easter, Fourth of July, Thanksgiving and Christmas Day); Grinding Facility, 8 a.m.-noon & 1-4 p.m. Mon., Wed. & Fri.

53000 block of Overlook Dr. Handled by deputy.

• July 28 — Alarm call, 6:42 a.m. 24000 block of Sherman Dr/coulter Dr. Handled by deputy.

Garner Valley Pine Meadows

• July 25 — Area check, 9:34 a.m. 63000 block of Pimlico Dr/Wood Bine Rd. Handled by deputy.

• July 26 — Suspicious person, 1:04 a.m. Address undefined. Handled by deputy.

• July 28 — Noise complaint, 10:24 p.m. 60000 block of Table Mountain Rd. Handled by deputy.

• July 29 — Alarm call, 7:19 p.m. 60000 block of Devils Ladder Rd. Handled by deputy.

Poppet Flats

• July 29 — Public disturbance, 11:08 a.m. 18000 block of Cryer Dr. Handled by deputy.

• July 29 — Check the welfare, 9:55 p.m. 46000 block of Poppet Flats Rd. Handled by deputy.

San Bernardino National Forest

• July 24 — Follow-up, 10:41 a.m. Address withheld. Handled by deputy.

• July 25 — Fraud, 1:15 p.m. 92000 block of Mcgaugh Rd/E. Hwy. 74. Handled by deputy.

• July 29 — Trespassing, 8:21 p.m. 28000 block of Saunders Meadow Rd. Handled by deputy.

• July 30 — Suspicious circumstance, 10:49 a.m. 51000 block of Old Mine Trl. Handled by deputy.

MAILING ADDRESS: __________________________________________________________________ CITY: ___________________ STATE: _______

ZIP: ___________________

TELEPHONE NUMBER(S): ______________________________________________________________________________________

EMAIL ADDRESS: ______________________________________________________________________________________

I (We) want to keep the Town Crier as a real newspaper for the benefit of our community, as follows:

Angels: Other amount unlimited above $1,000 annually – $___________

Heroes: $1,000 annually – $_______

Patrons: $500+ annually – $_______

Sponsors: $250+ annually – $_______

Sustaining Readers: $100+ annually – $_______

All Memberships may be paid for by the month, if you wish, by using a pre-submitted credit card, debit card, or PayPal account with the addition of a 3% fee. Contact Becky at the Town Crier office to make arrangements. 951-659-2145.

Subscribe

PLEASE NOTE: The Town Crier is NOT an official “nonprofit organization.” (For practical reasons involving the likelihood of local factional efforts to dominate a nonprofit’s board so as to gain editorial control of the paper, it could not be.) Therefore, your Membership contributions are NOT tax deductable.

Members have no ownership or voting interest in the Town Crier. And we know our Members appreciate that we cannot allow the fact of their Memberships to influence or control the paper’s ongoing editorial policies and decisions.

MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS:

• Subscriptions to both printed and online issues of the Town Crier.

• Nice-looking “Idyllwild Town Crier Member” car-window decals, which we very much hope you will display so as to encourage others to join us.

• Recognition of your Membership in the Town Crier, unless you request anonymity.

• Occasional offers, special to our Members, from local businesses.

• And most important and valuable of all: You will receive the satisfaction and pleasure of knowing that you are doing your part to support a real newspaper on our Hill for the benefit of our entire community.

Send completed form to Idyllwild Town Crier, P.O. Box 157, Idyllwild, CA 92549. Checks may be made payable to “Idyllwild Town Crier.” | You may contact Becky at 951-659-2145 or membership@towncrier.com.

Jennifer Singer performing Aug. 10 at summer concert

By David Jerome Idyllwild

Idyllwild’s free Summer Concert Series continues Thursday, Aug. 10, when the Butterfield Amphitheater will host Jennifer Singer, with locals Bryan and Lareé Goodhead opening. The music begins at 6:05 p.m. with the headliner taking the stage at 7 p.m.

Singer was a special treat at the end of last summer’s series. Series producer Ken Dahleen managed to add a ninth concert to the series, and invited Singer to close the season. As last year, Dahleen will call upon members of his network, the same pros that make up his Big Band Staff, to put together a seven-piece band to back her up. The program promises “A Touch of Broadway.”

Singer (her real name) earned her degree in drama and education at University of California Irvine (UCI), and as a participant in UCI’s New York satellite program, had the opportunity to study under Broadway professionals. She has credits as a singer, actor, dancer and songwriter, and her career has taken her from Equity Theaters to cruise lines and the big stages in Las Vegas. On dry land she enjoys traveling and performing with Live It Up Productions, road trips, hiking and teaching yoga.

Last year, Royal Caribbean chose her to be the “signature artist” aboard its Wonder of the Seas. The world’s largest cruising vessel, it has the biggest theatrical venue at sea. She told the Crier then that the program she is bringing to Idyllwild is “semi-scaled down” from a show she was doing in Europe, minus the hydraulics, lifts and backup singers, but still a musically big show.

Locals and visitors may have heard the Goodheads, the warmup band, with their “Heavenly 70’s” program at Middle Ridge Wine Tasting Gallery and around town.

Arts & Entertainment

Event charges may apply. See ads throughout the issue. Email editor@towncrier.com.

Wednesday, Aug. 2

• Niños & Nature, 10 a.m.noon. Idyllwild Nature Center.

• Preschool Story Time, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Idyllwild Library.

• Coed pickleball, 11 a.m. Idyllwild Pines Camp.

• Shaolin Qi Gong & Chicks with Sticks, 11 a.m.-noon & 4-5 p.m. Spirit Mountain Retreat.

• Minecraft & Scratch Coding Class, 2-3 p.m. Mt. San Jacinto Room, Camp Maranatha.

• Lego Club, 3-4 p.m. Mt. San Jacinto Room, Camp Ma-

They plan to play tribute material from James Taylor, Carole King and Carly Simon, as well as original songs by Lareé. “Bryan does fabulous impressions of various musical artists and loves the complexities of James Taylor’s music; he enjoys the more sophisticated guitar parts,” she said. Over the last few years, she has stepped up the songwriting, and has produced recordings at her brother’s Orange County studio. A lot of this has been posted to YouTube.

The couple met while working on a Holland America cruise ship, performing independently. He was headlining a musical comedy act while she worked as a piano-bar entertainer. “We became fast friends and then a romance developed,” she said. They realized that they had been living near each other, in Venice Beach and El Segundo, but had to go to Central America to meet.

The duo combines musical skills with comedy and impressions. Recent runs include Marvyn’s Magic Theater in La Quinta, doing a musical variety/comedy act.

The Goodheads plan to take their show beyond Idyllwild, booking shows throughout California and the Southwest. “We look forward to some road trips,” she said.

Lareé had her sights on Idyllwild for a while before moving here. Childhood family camping trips to the Sequoias gave her a taste for mountains and forests. “I knew that one day I wanted to set down some roots again.” She introduced Bryan to Idyllwild in 2009 while they were on a break from cruise ship work. “He fell in love as well,” she said. “We knew we had a future together here. We were very tired of the city. Being here in Idyllwild and getting our house is a dream come true. We’re really happy in Idyllwild. We love our home and have some great friends. We’ve lived a lot of our dreams and we’re not done yet.”

Lareé also wanted to say she is “grateful for the oppor-

Saturday, Aug. 5

• Coed pickleball, 11 a.m. Idyllwild Pines Camp.

tunity to give” and looks forward to the crowd at the Butterfield. This will be her third date with the series; in past years she joined Roger Dutton and Eric Lindgren. “This will be the first with Bryan, and we’re doing something different.”

These free concerts, funded completely by donations from local businesses, groups and individuals, are among the high points of summer life here in Idyllwild. The “hat” is passed at the event, and those who can are invited to give to keep this tradition alive. Contributions also may be sent, checks payable to “Idyllwild Summer Concert Org,” to P.O. Box 1542, Idyllwild CA 92549-1542. For more information, call Dahleen at (760) 413-4638.

Remember that temperatures drop in the summer evening. Come prepared with an extra layer to Butterfield Amphitheater, 54201 Ridgeview Drive, access through the Idyllwild Community Center Playground parking lot on Highway 243 just south of town.

ranatha.

• Idyllwild Chess Club, 5-9 p.m. Alpaca Brunch Cafe.

Thursday, Aug. 3

• Women’s pickleball, 9 a.m. Idyllwild Pines Camp.

• Lego Play, 10 a.m.-noon Idyllwild Nature Center.

• Summer Concerts: Sandii & Friends, 6:05 p.m.; The Ghost Notes, 7 p.m. Butterfield Amphitheater.

Friday, Aug. 4

• Women’s pickleball, 9 a.m. Idyllwild Pines Camp.

• Bridge Club, 1-4 p.m. Idyllwild Library.

Eggs, Sausage, Pancakes, Juice & Coffee

• Art Alliance of Idyllwild Plein Air Festival, 4-6 p.m. Oakwood Village.

Sunday, Aug. 6

• Idyllwild Chess Club, 5-9 p.m. Alpaca Brunch Cafe.

Monday, Aug. 7

• Women’s pickleball, 9 a.m. Idyllwild Pines Camp.

• Cribbage games, 10 a.m.noon. Idyllwild library.

Tuesday, Aug. 8

• Sewing Club, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. & 3-5 p.m. Mt. San Jacinto Room, Camp Maranatha.

• Mah Jongg, 12:30-3:30 p.m. Idyllwild Library.

• Jam session/song circle,

5:30 p.m. American Legion Post 800.

Wednesday, Aug. 9

• Niños & Nature, 10 a.m.noon. Idyllwild Nature Center.

• Summer Reading Program Awards & The Wacko Show, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Idyllwild Library.

• Coed pickleball, 11 a.m. Idyllwild Pines Camp.

• Shaolin Qi Gong & Chicks with Sticks, 11 a.m.-noon & 4-5 p.m. Spirit Mountain Retreat.

• Minecraft & Scratch Coding Class, 2-3 p.m. Mt. San Jacinto Room, Camp Maranatha.

• Lego Club, 3-4 p.m. Mt. San Jacinto Room, Camp Maranatha.

• “A.I., Enhancing Everyday Life in Surprising Ways,” 4-5:30 p.m. Idyllwild Library.

• Idyllwild Chess Club, 5-9 p.m. Alpaca Brunch Cafe.

Thursday, Aug. 10

• Women’s pickleball, 9 a.m. Idyllwild Pines Camp.

• Lego Play, 10 a.m.-noon Idyllwild Nature Center.

• Summer Concerts: Bryan & Lareé Goodhead, 6:05 p.m.; Jennifer Singer, 7 p.m. Butterfield Amphitheater.

Friday, Aug. 11

• Women’s pickleball, 9 a.m. Idyllwild Pines Camp.

• Bridge Club, 1-4 p.m. Idyllwild Library.

Saturday, Aug. 12

• RMRU Breakfast in the Forest, 8-11:30 a.m. Town Hall..

• Butterfly Daze, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Idyllwild Nature Center.

• Idyllwild Library Story Time, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Idyllwild Nature Center.

• Coed pickleball, 11 a.m. Idyllwild Pines Camp.

• Idyllwild Area Historical Society annual meeting & presentation, 2-4 p.m. Idyllwild Library.

Sunday, Aug. 13

• Idyllwild Chess Club, 5-9 p.m. Alpaca Brunch Cafe.

Monday, Aug. 14

• Women’s pickleball, 9 a.m. Idyllwild Pines Camp.

• Cribbage games, 10 a.m.noon. Idyllwild library.

Tuesday, Aug. 15

• Mah Jongg, 12:30-3:30 p.m. Idyllwild Library.

• Jam session/song circle, 5:30 p.m. American Legion Post 800.

Jennifer Singer performs Thursday, Aug. 10, for the Idyllwild Summer Concert Series at Butterfield Amphitheater. PHOTO COURTESY OF SINGER

Are you an eagle-eyed reader?

Circle the nine errors in the article below. Then, rewrite it correctly.

This sumner, I bilt a lemonaid stand. My freind Ricky helped me. We had a lot of customers on a very hot day. That day we make over $7.00 in profitt!

We got the lemons from the lemun tree in my backyard. We made signs and the neighbors let us put them in there yard.

Even our mail carrier, Molly, stopped for a kool glass of our delicious lemonade!

You will need to invest a little cash to get started. Visit or call a local store to find out what the things you need cost. Add up your costs to determine your price and profit. Here is what the math looks like:

EXPENSES:

12 lemons cost ...............................

1 3/4 cups of sugar cost ..................

20 paper cups cost ..........................

$1.20 .20 .60

Total cost for 20 cups of lemonade: $2.00

INCOME:

20 cups of lemonade at 50¢ each ....

PROFIT:

$10.00

(The money you make after covering your expenses) ................. $8.00

On a hot day, in the right spot, you might sell 100 cups of lemonade! How much money would you earn? Make a big, bold sign to attract people to your stand. If it is OK with your neighbors, put up several colorful signs to direct people to your stand.

Kevin and Melanie have everything they need for their lemonade stand—except customers. Draw some customers purchasing lemonade to complete this picture.

Here is a recipe for making 20 cups of fresh lemonade.

INGREDIENTS:

1 3/4 cups white sugar

8 cups water

1 1/2 cups fresh-squeezed lemon juice

ADULT SUPERVISION REQUIRED!

DIRECTIONS:

Offer your lemonade in cups made out of oranges. To make one, cut the top off of an orange and scoop out the insides with a spoon. Pour in the lemonade and serve with a straw. Give your lemonade-in-an-orange a snazzy name, like CITRUS TREAT, and charge more!

Remember! Add the cost of an orange and a straw to your expenses to determine the price of your “Citrus Treat.”

1.

Look through the newspaper for: a number divisible by 3 a price greater than $100 a number between 200 and 500

A “Weighty” Puzzle

One glass of lemonade weighs the same as four big cookies. If three spoons weigh the same as a cookie and a half, how much will a glass of lemonade and a spoon weigh?

In a small saucepan, combine sugar and 1 cup water. Bring to boil and stir to dissolve sugar. Allow to cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate until chilled.

2.

Remove seeds from lemon juice, but leave pulp. In pitcher, stir together chilled syrup, lemon juice and remaining 7 cups of water.

An old-fashioned lemonade stand makes cents in busy, modern times! Few people take the time to squeeze fresh lemonade. Follow our “recipe” for success and start a lemonade stand of your own! Standards Link:

There are six lemons in this bag. Can you figure out how to give one lemon to six different kids and leave one in the bag? Answer:

How many lemon slices can you nd on this page in one minute?

They’re fun to make and to eat! Thread some of your favorite treats onto a string of licorice. Hint: Use a toothpick to make a hole if necessary.

Jewels to string:

Lifesavers

Cereal Mini marshmallows

Raisins

Fruit snacks

Gum drops Jelly beans

Jenny is making an edible necklace with a pattern. Can you finish her necklace?

Standards Link: Math/Data Analysis: Identify and extend simple patterns.

Good Cents Advertising

In order to attract customers, a business needs to advertise. Look through the newspaper at ads that you like. Then create an ad for a business you would like to own.

Standards Link: Writing Applications: Write brief expository descriptions.

How I Earn Money

Help other kids by sharing what you do to earn money. Your ideas may inspire others!

Thank

ATTENTION CONTRACTORS

California Business and Professions Code 7071.13 reads: “Any reference by a contractor in his advertising, soliciting, or other presentments to the public to any bond required to be filed pursuant to this chapter is a ground for the suspension of the license of such contractor.”

This is a contractor’s responsibility, not a newspaper’s, and we are not responsible for it. However, as a courtesy, we will remove references to a bond in contractors’ advertising, if we notice it.

CLUBS

Pine Cove Property Owners

The Pine Cove Property Owners Association will take a recess in August. The next PCPOA meeting is at 9 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 9, at the Pine Cove Water District board room.

By Stephanie yoSt idyllwild Community Center

Idyllwild Community Center (ICC) has opened registration for its youth soccer program. The soccer season begins Monday, Aug. 21, and ends Friday, Oct. 27.

There are three age brackets for children, who will attend practice and play games at different times: ages 4 to 6 (practices and games will be from 4:15 to 5:15 p.m.); ages 7 to 9 (practices and games will be from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.), and ages 10 to 14 (practices and games will be from 6:45 to 7:45 p.m.).

All practices are Mondays and/or Tuesdays and all games are Thursdays and/or Fridays, based upon team sizes and parent input.

All practices and games are held at Idyllwild School. Sign-ups are open until Wednesday, Aug. 16.

The registration fee, which includes team T-shirts and medals for all participants, is $75 per child.

ICC also is seeking community volunteer coaches. The coaches do not need to be parents, but the registration fee will be waived for a coach’s child or other relative who participates in the soccer season.

Those interested in registering to play or volunteering to coach may do so online at idyllwildcommunitycenter.org. ICC notes that financial aid is available on a case-bycase basis. With more than 20 children already enrolled since registration opened July 25, ICC is looking forward to a great youth soccer season.

Nelson Mandela

Lost and Found LOST PET (Dog or Cat) Call ARF, 659-1122. Also, you may call Living Free Animal Sanctuary at 659-4687 or Ramona Animal Haven at (951) 654-8002, 1230 S. State St., San Jacinto, CA 92583.

Announcements

CRISISLINE, 683-0829 or 1 (800) 339-7233. Alternatives to Domestic Violence (ADV) provides information, counseling and shelter services for battered women and their children.

or visit www.idyllwildtowncrier. com or email Suzanne at suzanne@towncrier.com

For Rent FOR RENT 2 BD /1.5 BA, washer/dryer $2800 per month. 949-637-4331

4-bedroom, 2-bath furnished or partially furnished log house for rent. Great Idyllwild location, close walk to downtown. Pets upon approval. $3200/mo. Call 951-2954108 for details.

For Sale

Forest Knoll A Frame: Walk to Town. Lily Rock view. Open living space, 2 bedrooms plus loft. Master bedroom with full bath and 3/4 bath upstairs. $540k. For sale by owner. Call/text Kristin @ 213-840-6978.

Pro road bike. No longer used. 2015 Cannondale Synapse Carbon Ultegra. DI2 Disc. With extras. Bluebook value: $1,317. For sale at $1,200. Text Barry at 650.889.9181 to arrange a viewing.

Help Wanted

Place your classified line ad in the Town Crier, Call (951) 659-2145 or email: suzanne@ towncrier.com to get your ad in front of thousands of people!

Firewood Blowout - Get ready for the next cold winter. Eucalyptus $360/ cord. Hard mix $325/cord. Hard & soft mix $295/ cord. Pine $260/cord. Buy 3 cords, save $10/cord. Delivery included. 909800-1352.

Abatement. Big truck hauling. Trash pick-up 4 times a month for $100. Pine needles, yard clearing. Call for estimate (951) 659-5404. PETSITTING, will visit your pets in your home. Walk your dogs, cuddle your cats, tweet with your birds. All critters welcome. Exp. with livestock too! Pet First Aid/ CPR instructor. Local refs. Barb, 951-6632480. reverenceforlife3@gmail.com Caring for your Idy pets since 2004. Yardbirds are back! Rake, haul, we do it all. Just give us a call. (951)867-2938 Firewood also.

TAX PREPARATION

On the Hill

Individual ◆ Corporate Non-Profit ◆ Bookkeeping

Amy Aronson Call-Text-Email 951-571-8116 amy@yourtaxesaredone.com

D&H FIRE ABATEMENT SERVICES

• Yard Clean Up

• Tree Trimming/Removal

Deadline: noon Monday for Thursday publication

• No charge for Found ads: 4x maximum insertion.

Hauling • Snow Plowing

• General Clean UP Window

Washing

• Prompt Service Reasonable Terms

Idyllwild • Garner Valley Since 1993 CALL FOR ESTIMATES

• LIC#938982 Cell: (951) 445-1125

• 951-659-1986 • dh4527@ymail.com • Humberto & Daniel Tlacomulco • PO Box 3314, Idyllwild, CA 92549 BRIAN’S PAINTING. Int. Ext. Decks, Fire Proofing. Many references. 10% Discount for Seniors and Military. 951-467-8373.

• Please read your ad. We assume no responsibility for errors after first insertion.

• Information other than what is placed in ad is confidential. No advance information is given on ads.

• We reserve the right to reject classified and display ads that are considered by the editor to be libelous, in bad taste or personal attacks.

• For display advertising, call (951) 659-2145 or toll free 1-888-535-6663 or visit 54391 Village Center Dr. Suite 5, Idyllwild, and ask to speak to an Advertising Representative.

• For Classified advertising questions call Town Crier at (951) 659-2145 or Email: suzanne@towncrier.com

Eli Giampa of the Storm fields the ball Sept. 24, 2021, at Idyllwild School’s upper field.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ICC

Associates of Idyllwild Arts Foundation (IAF) President Michael Slocum handing IAF President Pamela Jordan a $10,000 check for school scholarships from the organization’s fundraising efforts. The donation was made at the group’s annual meeting, a Hawaii-themed event on campus.

PHOTO BY BECKY CLARK

Wednesday evening, July 26, Soroptimist International of Idyllwild inducted two new members, Byron Mejia and Mary Knab, into their club. This event was held in Spirit Mountain Retreat garden. From left, Past President Teresa Teel Mejia Knab, and current Co-President Diana Kurr

PHOTO BY LYNNE EODICE

Steele to play at the Greenbrier

By Jack Clark Pro Golf Correspondent

Brendan Steele is entered this weekend in LIV Golf’s tournament on The Old White golf course at The Greenbrier golf resort in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, a town with a smaller population than Idyllwild.

The native Idyllwilder currently is ranked 186th in the Official World Golf Rank ing.

The tournament can be fol lowed all three days — Fri day through Sunday — using the LIV Golf app. Currently, Channel 5, Los Angeles is no lon ger available on DirectTV, but this is a contract dispute so the situation may change.

Creature Corner reature

By Janice Murasko

Last week in “Days of Our Nine Lives,” ARF cats and kittens shared ideas for keeping felines safe during the hot summer.

Harley: We talked about ways to keep us cats safe during this unprecedented heat, but what about dogs?

Phil: ARF folk are always upset to see people walking their dogs on hot concrete.

Harley: Even worse is when dogs are left in cars on warm or hot days.

Rosy: I’ve heard that the heat of summer can lead to anything from sunburn to heat stroke. Most of the conditions caused by summer heat are relatively easy to prevent, so why do dogs suffer in the summer?

Katnis: Good question.

A dog guardian simply needs to be cautious and exercise prevention. Knowing signs and symptoms of heat stroke and sunburn is crucial.

Phil: They should know to phone the vet right away for signs of heat stroke. Dogs who are exposed to ambient heat that causes heat exhaustion and heat stroke will show signs such as excessive panting, bright red gums and tongue, and a lack of coordination that may be accompanied by the signs of dehydration such as tacky gums, lethargy, loss of skin elasticity and rapid breathing.

Pepper: Wow! And if a guardian wants to walk her dog, she should first put the back of her hand on the cement or concrete for seven seconds. If it is uncomfortable, then the dog should stay home and stay cool.

Don: Walking a dog on hot cement, rocks or gravel can lead to contact burns on the paws.

Katnis: Years ago, ARF took in a dog who had been left to wander during a heat wave. The poor pup had third-degree burns on all four paws. He couldn’t even walk, and bandages on his burns had to be changed daily.

Pepper: Let’s work to prevent this.

Be sure to keep up with the animal antics of Days of our Nine Lives each week. And please stop in to say hello to the entire adoptable cast at the ARF House, 26890 Hwy 243. ARF is open Saturdays 10-3, Sundays 10-2, and during the week by appointment. Please call 951659-1122.

For those interested in sponsoring future weeks or months of Creature Corner, contact ARF at 951-659-1122 or info@idyllwildarf.org.

Sproul, 17, competed in Hollywood for the Miss California role in the Miss World pageant to be held in the fall.

55 years ago - 1968

75 years ago - 1948

Formal opening ceremonies were to be held to mark the completion of the Banning-Idyllwild Highway.

70 years ago - 1953

The U.S. Department of the Interior’s Geological Survey Division began a project to map inaccessible areas in the local mountains.

65 years ago - 1958

The Idyllwild Chamber of Commerce announced it would be sponsoring “the greatest deer hunters’ festival in the West” during the upcoming Daniel Boone Days.

Past Tense - -

60 years ago - 1963

Miss Idyllwild, Judy

A Valle Vista man was killed when the air tanker he was piloting crashed north of Highway 74 near the Strawberry Creek junction. The tanker was one of five being used to halt a fast-spreading blaze. The plane crash started another fire that was quickly extinguished.

50 years ago - 1973

Actor Will Geer, best known for his role as Grandpa on “The Waltons,” was one of the entertainers at the Bowman Theatre on the ISOMATA campus.

45 years ago - 1978

The first thunderstorm of the summer season dumped 1.4 inches of rain and hail in the Idyllwild area to make it the wettest July in 10 years.

40 years ago - 1983

More than $6,000 of

medical supplies were given to the Idyllwild Disaster Preparedness group by the Hemet Valley Hospital District. The supplies were to meet the local needs of residents in case of an emergency.

35 years ago - 1988

About 100 local residents, along with numerous fire and law enforcement officials, participated in the dedication ceremony of WNKI, the new Idyllwild-area emergency radio station.

30 years ago - 1993

Four Idyllwild students were chosen to have their art displayed along Highway 74 between Hemet and Mountain Center. The exhibits were part of a U.S. Forest Service program.

25 years ago - 1998

Soroptimist International of Idyllwild celebrated its 25th anniversary.

20 years ago - 2003

Riverside County Fire Department and Mountain Community Fire Safe Council received

$412,000 in grants from the U.S. Forest Service for dead tree removal.

15 years ago - 2008

Pine Cove residents Bob and Pat Parish received the President’s Volunteer Service Award for more than 4,000 hours of lifetime volunteer service.

10 years ago - 2013

The Mountain Fire posed hardships on people who did not have gas money to evacuate and people who lost wages due to the evacuation. The Help Center was challenged in giving enough aide to these people.

5 years ago - 2018

Residents, business owners and employees in Mountain Center and Apple Canyon, with proof of employment or residency, could access those places through Garner Valley during the arson-started Cranston Fire.

1 year ago - 2022

Mayor Max II died just after 11 p.m. Saturday, July 30, following sudden health issues.

Carrie

Glessy Rosy

h d h h d b d More than $300 was raised for the Idyllwild Library in July 1983. The event was a wine and cheese reception, and an autograph party honoring 18 local authors and their published works. Among the authors were, from left, Luther Weare Dorothy Bryant Spark Schnitzer

Bea Krone and Ray Strait FILE PHOTO

Ramon Medellin presented The Wacko Show at Idyllwild Library Wednesday morning, July 26, in celebration of the end of the Summer Reading Program. Medellin had 64 people in attendance.

Olsen and The Perfect Blend entertained the crowd at the Idyllwild Summer Concert last Thursday night at Butterfield Amphitheater.

WORD SEARCH

(Answers on previous classifieds page)

Idyllwild Community Center (ICC) has repaired the toddler slide at the playground that ICC owns and maintains. The slide was vandalized a few weeks ago by someone stomping their foot through it. Local residents Tom Marino and his daughter Cheryl enjoy the repaired slide on last Saturday.

Become a Town Crier Member!

Less than $9 per month.

http://www.IdyllwildTownCrier.com/membership-signup/

CROSSWORD

(Answers on previous classifieds page)

August 2023 — Week 1

March 21 – April 19

Aspects favor new romances for unpaired Ewes and Rams. Already-paired Arian twosomes experience renewed harmony in their relationships. Money matters also take a bright turn.

April 20 – May 20

Use that strong Bovine determination to help you keep the faith with your convictions while you move through a period of uncertainty. Things begin to ease by the week’s end.

May 21 – June 21

Pay attention to your intuition. It could be alerting you to be more careful about accepting a “statement of fact” simply on trust. Don’t be shy about asking for more proof.

June 22 – July 22

Concern for the well-being of someone in need is admirable, but don’t forget to take care of yourself as well. Ask a family member, close friend or colleague to help you.

July 23 – August 22

It’s OK to focus on the demands of your career, but try to avoid misunderstandings by also reaching out to family and friends. Your sharp intuitive sense kicks in by midweek.

August 23 – September 22

(Answers on previous classifieds page)

Keep a rein on that green-eyed monster. Jealousy is counterproductive. Instead of resenting a colleague’s good points, concentrate on developing your own abilities.

September 23 – October 22

Spending time on a creative project during this high-energy week can pay off both in emotional satisfaction and in impressing someone who is glad to see this side of you.

October 23 – November 21

Now is a good time to start planning that trip you’ve put off because of the demands on your time. Be sure to choose a destination that is new and exciting.

November 22 – December 21

That upbeat mood in the first part of the week makes you eager to take on new ventures. A more serious note sets in later to help you assess an upcoming decision.

December 22 – January 19

A high energy level gives the Goat the getup-and-go to finish outstanding tasks before deadline, leaving time for well-earned fun and games with friends and family.

January 20 – February 18

Dealing with disappointment is never easy, but the wise Aquarian will use it as a vital lesson and be the better for it. On another note, a close friend has something important to say.

February 19 – March 20

Your best bet is not to get involved in an argument between colleagues until you know more about who started it and why. Even then, appearances could be deceiving. Be alert.

Jeri

PHOTO BY PETER SZABADI

PHOTO BY JACK CLARK

Terri

PHOTO BY JOEL FEINGOLD

PHOTO BY STEPHANIE YOST A doe and fawn off Saunders Meadow Road last week.

PHOTO BY JOEL FEINGOLD

PHOTO BY PETER SZABADI