Happy Spring!
As we step into April and our Investment issue, I want to take a moment to talk about one of the most important, and often most difficult, things to invest in—ourselves. In a world that constantly demands our time, energy, and attention, it’s easy to forget that the best returns often come from what we put into our own growth, well-being, and passions. We’re told daily that countless objects, devices and items will improve our lives. But I’m talking about true investment.
Here in Temecula, we’re surrounded by opportunities to invest in ourselves and our community. Whether we are supporting local businesses, committing to personal wellness, or engaging with the incredible people who make this city thrive, these choices contribute to a greater sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Maybe for you, investing in yourself means taking that leap into a new business venture, prioritizing health and wellness, or dedicating time to learning a new skill. Why not this year? Maybe it’s simply about being present—with family, with friends, or in this vibrant city we call home.
Temecula is a city built on investment—the investment of dreamers, entrepreneurs, and community leaders who have poured their hearts into making it a place where people don’t just live, but truly flourish. It’s a city where you can meet interesting people, take classes and even learn about other cultures without ever leaving the city limits.
This issue is dedicated to those who are ready to take the bold steps to invest in their future, their passions, and their community.
So, as you turn the pages of this issue, I encourage you to ask yourself: What’s one way you can invest in yourself this month? No matter how big or small, every step forward matters and you’re worth the investment.
Here’s to making the most of the investments that truly count.
SEAN ARNETT, PUBLISHER
April 2025
PUBLISHER
Sean Arnett | sean.arnett@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Desiree Allen | desiree.allen@citylifestyle.com
SALES DIRECTOR
Sean Arnett
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Desiree Allen
INTERNS
Jaedyn Barajas, Seth Haden
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Shawna Sarnowski
MARKET SUPPORT MANAGER
Wynter Creative Group
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sean Arnett, Desiree Allen, Christina Verhagen, Melissa Colombo, Whitney Saxton, Ava Sarnowski
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Scott Downing, Shawna Sarnowski
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
1: Dan and Beverly Stephenson – Honorary Chairpersons of the 2025 Winter Gala, celebrating their love for the symphony and commitment to the arts in Temecula 2: Temecula’s 2025 Mayor, Brenden Kalfus, and his wife, Mia, sharing an evening of music and community at the Winter Gala with Temecula Valley Symphony Board Member Jim McLaughlin 3: An evening of music and celebration! Temecula Valley Symphony supporters, musicians, and community members come together for a joyous night at the 2025 Winter Gala, celebrating the power of the arts.
We invite you to celebrate with us! Join us to celebrate the past, present and future of local businesses and people who make this city thrive.
March 26th 11am Grass area by Temecula City Hall
FREE Marketing Lunch & Learn: The Power of Collaboration
April 29, 2025 - 10:00 AM @ Co-Working Connection, Murrieta. Free to attend - lunch available for pre-order + purchase. Every great business starts with a strong marketing strategy. Learn from Temecula’s best in everything from print to social, promotional gifts to messaging, and strategy to design. Network with local professionals and discover how collaboration can make all the difference in reaching your goals.
RSVP required—spots are limited! RSVP by email to - desiree.allen@ citylifestyle.com
Investing Wisely
Smart Strategies for Wealth Building: A Conversation with
ARTICLE BY SEAN ARNETT
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SCOTT DOWNING PHOTOGRAPHY
Jason Lund
Jason Lund shares expert insights on building financial security, no matter where you are in your journey.
Today’s economy can feel overwhelming, with rising costs making it harder to make every dollar go further. We sat down with financial expert Jason Lund to discuss practical strategies for building and preserving wealth — no matter where you are on your financial journey.
MAKING YOUR MONEY LAST
“The key to making money last is smart allocation,” says Lund. “Eliminate debt, avoid unnecessary credit, and pay yourself first—saving before anything else builds a strong foundation.”
Smart choices today, lasting wealth tomorrow.
Lund also stresses the importance of controlling lifestyle inflation. As income rises, resist the urge to increase spending at the same pace. Instead, prioritize savings and investments for long-term financial stability.
STEPS TO START BUILDING WEALTH
“Start now,” Lund advises. “Assess risks versus rewards, choose wisely, and stay disciplined. The journey to financial security begins with intentional choices.”
Developing a budget and sticking to it is essential. Tracking income, expenses, and savings goals builds financial discipline. Lund recommends automating savings contributions to ensure consistent progress.
ELECTION CYCLES & ECONOMIC IMPACT
Many believe the economy slows during election years. Lund shares, “Elections influence certain sectors, but overall, staying diversified and informed is key. Don't react to fear-driven narratives -- instead look for opportunities.”
Market fluctuations are common during election cycles, but history shows that long-term investing yields better results than short-term reactive decisions. Lund urges individuals to focus on their
Your financial future starts with a plan.
personal investment timeline rather than making impulse moves based on political uncertainty.
TAILORED FINANCIAL ADVICE
Lund offers specific advice for different financial situations:
• Young Professionals: “Understand the risks of taxation and inflation. Diversify, stay patient, and avoid ‘get-rich-quick’ schemes.”
• Families with Employer-Provided Plans: “For most, a Roth 401(k) is a strong option, but a personalized assessment is essential for maximizing benefits.”
• High-Net-Worth Individuals: “Wealth protection requires strategic planning. Consider income replacement, risk tolerance, and long-term goals as part of a comprehensive approach.”
WHEN TO START TAX PLANNING
"Immediately." says Lund. “Every untaxed dollar holds future value. Tax planning becomes especially important at the 22% tax bracket, where smart strategies can yield significant benefits.”
Tax planning includes maximizing deductions, contributing to tax-advantaged accounts, and understanding capital gains tax implications. Lund recommends reviewing tax strategies annually to adapt to any changes in tax laws that might impact wealth preservation.
INVESTMENT OPTIONS: UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENCES
Investment suitability depends on income, tax bracket, employment status, and goals. Lund outlines common options:
• 401(k) & Roth 401(k): Employer-sponsored plans with tax advantages.
• SEP IRA: Ideal for self-employed individuals.
• HSA (Health Savings Account): Offers tax benefits for medical expenses.
• Non-Qualified Investments: More flexibility but lack tax advantages.
“Start now. Assess risks versus rewards, choose wisely, and remain diligent. The journey to financial security begins with intentional first steps.” — Jason Lund
“The biggest mistake,” Lund warns, “is not realizing that time is both your greatest asset and your biggest enemy. The earlier you start, the better.”
Diversification is another key aspect of smart investing. Lund advises against putting all assets into one category, emphasizing the importance of spreading investments across various asset classes, such as stocks, bonds, real estate, and mutual funds.
FINDING THE RIGHT FINANCIAL ADVISOR
“A fiduciary advisor—who charges a fee for service and prioritizes your best interests—is usually the best choice,” Lund says. “Look for transparency, strong communication skills, references, and experience. And remember, a successful advisor-client relationship thrives on active engagement from both sides.”
Working with a financial advisor who understands your unique needs and long-term goals can play a crucial role in building and preserving wealth. Regular check-ins and adjustments to your financial plan help ensure success.
With these expert insights, Lund encourages individuals to take charge of their financial futures, emphasizing that strategic planning and informed choices can pave the way for long-term success.
Create the Perfect No-Makeup
Makeup Look ft. Colorescience: Backed by Science
INVESTING IN RADIANT SKIN: YOUR KEY TO CONFIDENCE
Flawless skin begins with effective skincare, not heavy makeup. By choosing high-quality ingredients, you create a healthy canvas that naturally glows.
That’s why Chelsea loves Colorescience, a brand that combines advanced skincare with mineral-based color technology and dermatologist-approved SPF protection. These multifunctional products enhance your beauty while improving skin health, ensuring you shine with confidence every day.
THE FOUNDATION: SKIN HEALTH
Skincare is an investment in long-term skin health. A solid regimen protects against sun damage and pollution while promoting hydration and anti-aging benefits. Nourish your skin with antioxidants and moisture-rich formulas for a youthful glow.
THE POWER OF SKIN PREP
Healthy, hydrated skin is the foundation for flawless makeup. Start with Colorescience’s Barrier Pro One Step Cleanser for gentle cleansing, followed
by the Barrier Pro Essential Moisturizer to lock in moisture. Finish with Hydrating Mist Setting Spray for lasting freshness and protection.
PROFESSIONAL SKINCARE: PERSONALIZED CARE
While at-home routines are vital, professional treatments can enhance your results. Licensed estheticians offer tailored care, from deep hydration facials to advanced skin treatments.
SPF PROTECTION: THE NON-NEGOTIABLE STEP
Sun protection is crucial for radiant skin. Colorescience No Show Mineral SPF 50 offers lightweight coverage that seamlessly blends into the skin while protecting against harmful UV rays. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to often-neglected areas like the neck and chest for youthful, glowing skin.
FLAWLESS, NATURAL MAKEUP: LESS IS MORE
Enhancing your natural beauty doesn’t require layers of heavy makeup. The goal
Invest in your skin with Chelsea C Skincare and Colorescience—the duo for radiant health!
Sarah Ankerman, was AMAZING! Book with her for all your beauty team needs! www.ankermanartistry.com
Discover how Colorescience blends skincare and beauty for a flawless, natural glow visit https://www.colorescience.com/ collections/retailer-landing-page?designate-location=20603
More than makeup--confidence backed by science.
is to let your skin’s radiance shine through while using high-quality, skin-loving products.
Start with Colorescience Face Shield Flex SPF 50 for a lightweight, tinted base that provides buildable coverage while protecting against environmental stressors. For additional coverage, Tint Du Soleil SPF 30 offers a hydrating foundation infused with peptides and antioxidants to nourish and even out skin tone.
To subtly contour and add warmth, use Face Shield Bronze SPF 50 along the cheekbones and jawline for a naturally sculpted look.
Enhance your features with Total Lash Mascara , which lengthens and defines lashes without clumping. Add a fresh pop of color with Color Balm SPF 50, a creamy, blendable tint for lips and cheeks that hydrates while providing sun protection.
Complete the look with SPF Lip Shine for a glossy, polished finish, and mist Hydrating Mist Setting Spray to lock everything in place for allday radiance.
RADIANCE STARTS FROM WITHIN
Healthy, glowing skin comes from both topical care and lifestyle choices. Staying hydrated, eating a nutrient-rich diet, and maintaining a consistent skincare routine contribute to a luminous complexion.
Investing in high-quality skincare means choosing formulas that nourish and protect. With Chelsea C Skincare and Colorescience, achieving radiant beauty is simple—great skin is always in!
Book a consultation with Chelsea C Skincare to personalize your routine and achieve a glowing complexion tailored to your needs.
THE NO-MAKEUP MAKEUP ROUTINE
Achieving a flawless, natural look starts with the right products—and expert guidance.
Chelsea brought in makeup artist Sarah Ankerman to create my perfect no-makeup makeup look using Colorescience’s skin-loving, multitasking products.
The result?
Effortless radiance that enhances my features while keeping my skin protected and healthy.
1. Even Out & Brighten – Sarah applied Total Eye Concealer (Medium) to the entire eye area, including the lids, to brighten and correct any discoloration.
2. Lightweight Coverage – She used Natural Finish Pressed Foundation (Medium Sand) for a breathable, natural skin-like finish.
3. Subtle Contour – To add dimension, she blended Face Shield Bronze SPF 50 along the cheekbones, jawline, and temples for a sunkissed glow.
4. Fresh, Natural Color – A touch of Color Balm in Violet Haze was applied to cheeks and lips for a soft flush, layered with SPF Lip Shine in Rose for added hydration and shine.
5. Defined Yet Soft Eyes – Sarah finished the look with Total Lash Mascara , ensuring naturally lifted, lengthened lashes.
6. Set & Refresh – A final mist of Hydrating Mist Setting Spray locked in hydration and extended the wear of the look for all-day freshness.
I love discovering beauty products that enhance natural beauty while protecting skin health.
Colorescience offers a variety of shades and formulas to complement all skin tones. Book a consultation with Chelsea for a custom color match tailored to your skin type and preferences.
WHY CHOOSE COLORESCIENCE?
Skincare Meets Beauty
Colorescience blends skincare with beauty, offering high-performance products that deliver both immediate and long-term results: Advanced Hydration – Hyaluronic acid and botanical extracts keep skin plump and dewy.
Barrier Support – Antioxidants, peptides, and minerals strengthen and protect.
Color Science Technology – EnviroScreen® Technology ensures seamless coverage with skincare benefits.
Broad-Spectrum Sun Protection – Mineral SPF with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide defends against UV rays, pollution, and blue light.
Achieve the perfect no-makeup makeup look with skin-loving, multitasking products.
SHOP THE MUST-HAVE PRODUCTS FOR RADIANT SKIN:
Face Shield Flex SPF 50 – A lightweight, tinted sunscreen with buildable coverage and broad-spectrum protection.
Tint du Soleil SPF 30 – A hydrating foundation infused with peptides and antioxidants for a smooth, even complexion.
No Show™ Mineral SPF 50 – An invisible, weightless sunscreen that blends seamlessly without a white cast.
Total Eye® Concealer SPF 35 – A multitasking treatment that brightens, hydrates, and shields the eye area while correcting dark circles.
Color Balm SPF 50 – A creamy, blendable balm with mineral SPF, adding a natural flush to lips and cheeks.
Colorescience's mineral SPF keeps your skin glowing while shielding it from harmful rays.
TUESDAY 10AM - 1PM
GET ACTIONABLE TAKEAWAYS AND PRACTICAL ADVICE TO SUPERCHARGE YOUR MARKETING GAME
RSVP
How Oral Health Pays Dividends for Your Well-Being
INVEST IN YOUR SMILE
Investing in your health is one of the most valuable decisions you can make, and it all begins with your oral health. Your mouth is a gateway to overall well-being, and maintaining it can lead to lasting benefits.
UNDERSTAND THE MOUTH-BODY CONNECTION
Routine dental care is essential. Certain bacteria in the mouth contribute to cavities, while others are linked to gum disease, inflammation, diabetes, heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and some cancers.
Underlying health issues, such as obstructive sleep apnea, autoimmune conditions, and digestive disorders -- including Crohn’s disease -- often first appear in the mouth.
MAKE SMART CHOICES ABOUT WHAT AND HOW YOU EAT
Prioritize whole foods and include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet. Limit sugary drinks, sticky sweets, and acidic beverages that can damage enamel.
Don’t underestimate the importance of chewing! It strengthens jaw muscles and stimulates saliva production, which helps neutralize acids and protect your teeth.
PARTNER WITH A DENTAL OFFICE THAT MEETS YOUR NEEDS
Every patient is unique. Some are cavity-prone, while others experience tartar buildup or teeth grinding. Find a dental office where you feel heard and confident in your treatment plan.
Understand that dental benefits often act as discount plans rather than true insurance. While helpful, they may limit treatment options or deny coverage for necessary procedures.
The final decisions about your care should always be made between you and your dentist—not a third party unfamiliar with your specific needs.
Consider alternative ways to manage costs, such as an FSA or HSA, or an in-house savings plan.
Investing in your oral health is an investment in your future. By understanding the mouth-body connection, making mindful dietary choices, and working with a trusted dental professional, you lay the foundation for a healthier, happier life.
Invest in Your Smile
Healthy gums = Healthy body
Whole foods = Strong teeth
Saliva = Natural defense
FSAs, HSAs & savings plans = Smart budgeting
Your best return? A confident smile!
Your dream brought to life.
With the right building partner, anything is possible.
You’ve imagined it for years: the ADU that keeps your loved ones close or the showstopping new home designed for the way you live.
This can be the year you bring that vision to life. Building from the ground up may feel overwhelming, but with the right builder, it doesn’t have to be.
At Youngren Construction, we take the stress out of the building process. Our team handles everything from permits and blueprints to the final touches that make your house a home.
The result: a beautiful home delivered seamlessly, so you can skip the worry and start living the way you’ve always dreamed of.
Your dream is possible with a trusted builder by your side.
With over 30 years of experience, we take pride in delivering expert craftsmanship and seamless project management every step of the way. Let’s build something extraordinary together.
Call today and let’s get started: (760) 728-9874
Cultivates
ARTICLE BY DESIREE ALLEN PHOTOGRAPHY BY SCOTT DOWNING PHOTOGRAPHY
Phil Noble, owner and sons of Sage Mountain Farm, work alongside his team to implement regenerative farming techniques that support soil health and sustainability.
As demand for fresh, locally sourced produce grows, Sage Mountain Farm in Anza, California, stands out for its sustainable practices and community-driven initiatives. Owned by Phil Noble, this regenerative farm is committed to organic farming and collaboration with other small farms, and providing an array of wholesome foods, including freshly harvested produce, pastured beef, pork, lamb and chicken.
Sustainability is key at Sage Mountain Farm. Recently, Noble reduced plastic use in garlic planting by planting directly into the soil instead of using plastic, speeding up the process fourfold. They cover the garlic with compost to suppress weeds, continuing this approach to minimize plastic while enhancing efficiency.
Extreme weather, present challenges, but high tunnels help protect crops.
“They capture daytime heat, safeguarding crops from freezes,” Noble explains. “A hard freeze can kill tomatoes, eggplants, and squash, but 99 or 100 degrees isn’t as damaging.”
Last season, high winds caused significant damages, underscoring the unpredictability of farming.
SOIL HEALTH AND WEED MANAGEMENT
Topsoil preservation is a major focus at Sage Mountain Farm. To maintain soil health without chemicals, Noble uses controlled burning before planting carrots.
“We irrigate, let weeds sprout slightly, then burn them off," he explains. Another method involves planting radishes with the carrots -- since radishes sprout first, early burning clears weeds before the carrots emerge.
MAXIMIZING HARVESTS AND COMMUNITY DISTRIBUTION
Unlike large commercial farms that harvest only the main head of broccoli, Sage Mountain Farm allows plants to continue producing.
“We don’t just take the main head —we let the plant grow back,” Noble says. “Big farms pull the plant immediately, but we maximize each crop.”
The farm is a key member of Foodshed, a co-op supplying local food organizations like UC San Diego and Feeding San Diego. They partner with farms in Fallbrook, Valley Center, and beyond to provide a diverse selection in their CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) boxes.
“We can’t always fill CSA boxes alone, so we work with other farms,” Noble explains. “For citrus and avocados, we source from a Valley Center farmer who’s been in the business for 25 years.”
SUPPORTING LOCAL FARMS
For restaurants and markets prioritizing farm-to-table sourcing, Sage Mountain Farm offers fresh, seasonal produce.
CONTINUED >
Fresh, locally grown produce at Sage Mountain Farm—cultivated with sustainable practices and a commitment to organic farming.
THE
“OUR COMMITMENT TO ORGANIC FARMING AND LOCAL PARTNERSHIPS ENSURES OUR COMMUNITY ENJOYS
FOODS.” –PHIL NOBLE
FRESHEST, MOST WHOLESOME
Sage Mountain Farm partners with other small farms through the Foodshed co-op, supplying fresh produce to organizations like UC San Diego and Feeding San Diego.
However, Noble acknowledges that it requires flexibility.
“A restaurant can’t just place an order overnight and expect next-day delivery,” he says. “A freeze can delay tomatoes for weeks. It's extra work, but the payoff is fresher ingredients.”
Local Chef Leah DiBernardo of Old Town Temecula's EAT Marketplace, exemplifies this commitment, sourcing exclusively from local farms.
“She works five times harder than most because she doesn’t rely on large distributors,” Noble shares. “But she’s passionate about serving truly fresh, local food.”
BRINGING FRESH PRODUCE TO THE
COMMUNITY
Sage Mountain Farm’s CSA boxes make it easy to support local farms. Available throughout Temecula and the Inland Empire, they offer fresh, seasonal produce with Wednesday and Thursday deliveries and convenient pick-up locations.
A FUTURE ROOTED IN SUSTAINABILITY
As Sage Mountain Farm evolves, its commitment to sustainability, partnerships, and high-quality produce remains strong. Noble’s dedication to innovation, plastic reduction, and collaboration ensures a bright future for farm-to-table dining. Support local farms by signing up for a CSA box, or dining at farm-to-table restaurants.
ELEVATE YOUR REAL ESTATE EXPERIENCE
In an ever-changing housing market, our team recognizes that each home purchase and sale is unique and requires a personalized approach. From luxury homes to hidden gems, we curate our process to meet your specific needs and we’re able to pivot when necessary to provide the best results. Call today, let’s turn your goals into success.
VAC A T ION BARISTA
TRAVEL ON THE GO
ARTICLE BY CHRISTINA VERHAGEN- TRAVEL ADVISOR
Planning a vacation is like ordering at your favorite coffee shop, with countless options available. You’re not just choosing for yourself; you’re catering to your whole family, each with unique preferences. As your “vacation barista,” I’ll ensure everyone’s wishes are met so you can enjoy a customized getaway together. Ready to place your order?
A NEW WAY TO GROW: LOCAL REGENERATIVE FARMING
ARTICLE BY MELISSA COLOMBO PHOTOGRAPHY BY SCOTT DOWNING PHOTOGRAPHY
Students in the Food Science class use regeneratively grown corn to make tortillas for tamales and quesadillas.
Temecula St. Jeanne Catholic FFA is growing leaders through integral ecology and hands-on learning experiences.
Students of all grade levels are involved in maintaining the farm.
One thing that sets Saint Jeanne de Lestonnac Catholic High School apart is their inclusion of the National Future Farmers of American (FFA) Organization program, a dynamic youth organization that prepares members for leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.
As the only chapter in the Temecula Valley, they have become a powerhouse within the FFA world, producing State and Regional Officers in addition to numerous competition accolades.
Most recently, the chapter had been focusing on their newest endeavora no-till regenerative farm.
The Chapter's advisor, agriculture teacher Christian Gomez, says that the farm helps students understand the impact of agriculture in the world and the importance of sustainability.
"The value of the farm is that it allows all our AG classes the opportunity to learn in a kinesthetic way. To care for the soil without disrupting the ecosystem and then to be able to use what we produce," says Gomez.
While Gomez serves as advisor, much of the day to day work is done by students. Elective classes such as Food Science and Floral Design utilize items grown on the farm in their projects.
The farm is a Riverside County Certified Producer and grows a variety of items, from corn and tomatoes to garlic, lavender, honey and cut flowers.
UNDERSTANDING NAD+ IV THERAPY
ARTICLE BY WHITNEY SAXTON
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SCOTT DOWNING AND ITS BENEFITS
Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) is a vital coenzyme in every living cell, essential for energy production and cellular repair. NAD+ boosts energy, supports brain health, enhances repair, and promotes healthy aging. Increase NAD levels through supplementation, a balanced diet, exercise, and IV therapy. Consult a healthcare provider like Whitney Saxton at Pure Glo Aesthetics & Wellness to find the best approach for your health and vitality.
CAPTURING LIFE’S GREATEST ADVENTURES
Lifestyle photography for the Temecula Valley and Beyond! Let us capture the special moments in your family’s life! The big game, that special performance or a day at the beach. We’ll capture your Star’s Big Moment!
A CLASSIC INVESTMENT
Preston driving his Pontiac GTO up a curved road.
ARTICLE BY AVA SARNOWSKI
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHAWNA SARNOWSKI
There's much to be said about the progression of automobiles throughout the years. They reflect the wishes of consumers, demonstrate technological improvements, and as time passes, encapsulate the eras they were constructed in. Larry Preston, a longtime resident of Temecula, grew up in the sixties, surrounded by classic cars that people continue to appreciate today. But throughout high school, Preston identified which car was his
The interior of Preston's Pontiac GTO, showcasing the steering column, radio and analogue dials.
favorite, and that passion manifested in a purchase further along in his life. Fifteen years ago, he bought a 1966 Pontiac GTO, which was also manufactured the same year he graduated high school.
The Pontiac GTO is credited as the first car introduced during the Muscle Car Era, which began in 1964 and ended in 1970. During this period, car manufacturers wanted to focus on horsepower and sporty designs. The acronym stands for “Gran Turismo Omologato.” When translated from Italian to English, it reads “Grand Touring Homologated.” It was designed by John DeLorean, Bill Collins, and Russ Gee, who were tasked
with transforming the Pontiac Tempest into a car that could appeal to the younger generation. The youth were done with driving their parents' car, wanting something to call their own. When the GTO was introduced, consumers both young and old went nuts for it. Its sales also caught the attention of the three big car manufacturers, Ford, Chevy and Chrysler. Even today, the GTO is desired by collectors and enthusiasts, with Preston’s model being one of them.
The car looks precisely as it would have appeared during its debut, and its Mariana turquoise paint job is one of the fourteen original stock color options. Classic cars
Preston ascending a hill while seated inside his Pontiac GTO.
have become a reasonably good investment, though only if one buys them right, as the prices fluctuate due to their lowering quantity. Though, Preston's personal investment toward his car has been out of the enjoyment of driving it.
He recalls a slower-paced time, when drivers reserved their Friday and Saturday nights for cruising downtown. Each town had areas reserved for people to cruise along. "It takes you back to that time when you were young," he says. According to him, automobiles were an important possession to have during that era. They brought a sense of pride and stacked on to one's multifaceted identity.
"IT TAKES YOU BACK TO THAT TIME WHEN YOU WERE YOUNG."
“Everyone was protective and dependent on their cars. That was our ultimate freedom, and we took care of them. People would keep their cars clean and polished. They were always working on the mechanics to keep them running, and a lot of mechanically inclined people did their own services. Today, things are far more advanced, and with the complexities of the new cars, most people don’t have the ability to work on them. They don't have the desire to," Preston shares.
Preston often drives down in his GTO to attend classic car shows, including Old Town's annual Rod Run. Seeing the streets lined with automobiles that represented
their eras is guaranteed during the event, specifically those from the 70s and below. Be it roadsters or hot rods, tourists get to learn about them all. Though, visitors are not the only ones who get excited. So do owners themselves, and just like Preston, their cars are a major investment. They have knowledge to share and are friendly among their fellow enthusiasts.
“There’s a sense of comradery between people who show up in their cars and the crowds who visit. A lot of people have spent so much money and time toward their cars, as it’s both their priority and their passion. That’s what they do with their time off, improve upon their classics as much as they can. It gives you a connection to the past."
The emblem of Preston's Pontiac GTO, which shows the engine size.
The hood scoop and driver over-under headlights of Preston's Pontiac GTO.
MARCH 26TH
Temecula City Lifestyle's 1-Year Anniversary & Ribbon Cutting Celebration
In front of the fountain near the Temecula sign in front of City Hall | 3:00 pm
Join us as we celebrate one incredible year of Temecula City Lifestyle! Celebrate one year of Temecula City Lifestyle with our Ribbon Cutting at the City Hall fountain! Mingle with partners, friends, and community leaders as we toast to a year of community, connection, and storytelling. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
APRIL 6TH
Altisima Winery - Feria De Abril
37440 De Portola Rd. | 11:00 AM
Experience an authentic Spanish fiesta filled with vibrant flavors, music, and dance. Enjoy exquisite wine pairings, savor special menu items, and be captivated by the passion of Flamenco dancers and live Spanish music. Don’t miss this unforgettable celebration!
APRIL 13TH
Peltzer Family Funday
40275 Calle Contento | 11:00 AM
All ages! Activities 11am - 6pm (Tickets for activities available for purchase). Gem Panning, Cookie Decorating Kits, Caricature Artist, Petting Farm, Bunny Pics, Scavenger Hunt, Train Rides, Shaved Ice Truck. Adult Eggs - 10 Lucky Winners! With the purchase of a glass of wine, beer or sangria get a chance to win a golden egg with a prize inside.
Calling All Trivia Lovers!
