We Love Temecula: Where History, Community, and Hallmark Charm Meet
You’ve heard the saying “six degrees of Kevin Bacon”; well, in Temecula, it’s two degrees to Stew. If you don’t know me, I guarantee someone you know does. I was Mayor of Temecula for 2020 and 2024, and the owner of Stews Barbershop. I moved my family here in 1991 and and have fallen in love with this Valley from the moment we arrived.
Just like any small town, our kids married other local kids just as they might have in the 1900s. Local life in Temecula is one of familiar faces we have known for decades, but also welcomes people who have moved here recently and fallen in love just as we did. The instant kinship with these new transplants makes this community so unique in this world we live in.
Along with being the mayor twice and serving on city council for eight years, I have taken on the role of local historian. When I was Mayor in 2020 I wanted to introduce the people of the Temecula Valley to its past residents. I created a Facebook page called Temecula Valley Fun Facts, and almost immediately it took off with everyone so intrigued with the absolutely fascinating history of the Temecula Valley.
From the Pechanga Tribe, which has lived here for more than a thousand years, to the first settlers, and the massive Vail cattle ranch that evolved into what we know as De Luz, Temecula, and the wine country—this connection to our past unites us and makes us feel connected to a long history of immigrants that has always been a part of Temecula.
So whether you’ve just moved here or have lived here your whole life, the love for this community unites us in a way that is hard to describe. I tell people all the time: Temecula is a town straight out of a Hallmark movie, from its charming Old Town to the magic of enjoying a glass of wine in our incredible wine country.
Literally every who comes to visit Temecula, leaves with that same sense of awe of our amazing city. It is such a honor and a privilege to be called a local.
James "Stew" Stewart
JAMES "STEW" STEWART, MAYOR OF TEMECULA 2024 & 2020
February 2025
PUBLISHER
Sean Arnett | sean.arnett@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Desiree Allen | desiree.allen@citylifestyle.com
SALES DIRECTOR
Sean Arnett
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Ashly Sandoval
MANAGING EDITOR
Desiree Allen
PHOTO EDITOR
Scott Downing
MARKET SUPPORT MANAGER
Wynter Creative Group
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Melissa Colombo, Ava Sarnowski, Christina Verhagen, Rebecca Farnbach
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Scott Downing, Ada Rey, Shawna Sarnowski
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
inside the issue
Departments
Temecula Chamber Champions Small Businesses
The City of Temecula Chamber of
Practice Self-Love with Pilates
Mental and Physical Love at The Pilates Co.
The emergence of Salty Honey, a modern blend.
Salty Honey founders, Taylor Leigh and Dianna Dahlgren, have been friends for twenty years. In this photograph, they celebrate Galentine's Day together, baking cookies in the kitchen and laughing heartily.
city scene
1: The Great Taste of Europa 2024 2: The first sip—wine that tells the tale of Europa’s rich heritage. 3: A day where flavors danced and stories unfolded at Europa's breathtaking vineyard. 4: Behind every great taste is an incredible team—cheers to the heart of Europa! 5: Culinary artistry on a plate, crafted to delight every sense. 6: Laughter echoed as glasses clinked, and strangers became friends. 7: Ironfire Brewing brought bold flavors to the table, pairing perfectly with Europa's unforgettable festival.
business monthly
ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Michelle's Place - Fallbrook Be Well Yoga
Weekly Classes offer a peaceful refuge for students navigating life with cancer. Here, they find stillness, community, and support while rediscovering their "new normal." No prior yoga experience is required, but students must safely transition between standing and seated on the floor. Loved ones or caregivers are welcome to join for extra support. Please RSVP by visiting: https://www. bewelltherapy.net/allclasses
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Holistic Health Expo
Vendor Opportunity
Join us at the Holistic Health Expo on Saturday, March 1, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Summit at Silverhawk’s Parking Lot, 29995 Technology Dr., Murrieta, CA! We’re seeking vendors offering food items or wellness products. $75 vendor fee – Space is limited. Apply now to secure your spot! Contact us to register: HealthFestLive.com/#Register
DeCosimo Law - Wine & Wills - February 8
Sip & Secure Your Legacy – Estate Planning Seminar
Join in for an informative seminar designed to help you plan your legacy while enjoying fine wine. Learn essential estate planning tips in a relaxed setting. Location: Altisima Winery
Seating is limited, so reserve your spot today! Registration is required, and all attendees must be 21+. Register now: decosimolaw.com/wine-wills-temecula
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ARTICLE BY MELISSA COLOMBO
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SCOTT
DOWNING PHOTOGRAPHY
TEMECULA VALLEY CHAMBER CHAMPIONS SMALL BUSINESSES
THE CITY OF TEMECULA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE LEADS THE WAY TO CREATING A COMMUNITY BUILT ON SMALL BUSINESS SUCCESS.
Temecula stands out as more than just a city north of San Diego these days. It has become a thriving hub of small business. With the unwavering support of the City's Chamber of Commerce, entrepreneurs, start ups and more have found the city to be a haven of resources, connections and opportunity to flourish.
Temecula’s business community stands out for its spirit of collaboration. Businesses genuinely root for each other’s success, which creates a sense of unity and purpose.
The mission of the Chamber is to partner with the business community to connect people, solve business challenges, support business-friendly initiatives. With 984 members amassed in 58 years, they have flourished in this goal. From food and coffee to apparel to wine tasting experiences to antiques and niche hobbies, there is a place for all.
The Chamber sponsors a number of initiatives and events directed at helping foster growth and success for businesses. The "Shop Local" initiative helps to not only highlight local shops but also remind residents how important it is to keep spending dollars local so the whole community benefits.
Other events, such as State of the City, sponsored luncheons and Coffee Connection, allow members the opportunity to network, educate themselves on the city's resources and most importantly, cheer on one another's success.
In addition to the main Chamber which offers membership options for business owners, the city also invests in the Young Valley Professionals group, which aims to empower young professionals (ages 21-40) to connect, collaborate and become community leaders.
But what truly sets Temecula apart as a gold standard for local entrepreneurs? A carefully cultivated environment of dedication, hard work and community support for one another.
"There is a true camaraderie between our local business and I truly believe we look out for each other," says Jackie Steed, the upcoming 2025 Chair of the Board and successful local realtor. She adds that her involvement on the Chamber has helped her gain perspective as to the importance and work of the small business community. CONTINUED >
"Truly understanding how our business community works behind the scenes gives a greater perspective of what it takes to be successful within your own business," she says.
The feeling of togetherness is a common theme among members and business owners.
"It’s rare to find a place where competitors are also cheerleaders for one another. Here, businesses genuinely root for each other’s success, which creates a sense of unity and shared purpose," says Bhavani Vajrakarur, the Valley Young Professionals Co-Chair and Marketing Manager of Grapeline Wine Tours. "That unique dynamic fosters innovation, support, and growth across all industries."
For budding movers and shakers curious about why they should invest in Chamber membership, many successful members highlight the immense resources and connection opportunities.
"The relationships I have built in this community because of my involvement in the Chamber for the last 18 years have superseded any expectations I had about joining," says Steed.
Supporting local businesses means investing in the people who make Temecula vibrant and unique. Every dollar spent locally strengthens our community, fostering growth and sustainability.
"Temecula is all about relationships, and the Chamber is the perfect place to start. Attend events, meet fellow business owners, and don’t be afraid to ask questions," advises Vajrakarur. "The community is incredibly supportive, and the more you engage, the more opportunities you’ll find."
Loving local isn’t just a slogan; it’s a commitment to ensuring our city remains a thriving place for families and businesses alike. It’s a motto that the Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to upholding.
2025 Chairman of the Board Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce
Brooke Nunn serves as the President/CEO of the Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce
Practice Self-Love with Pilates
Mental and Physical Love at The Pilates Co.
Pilates is a low impact workout that anyone can do at any age. It focuses on core strengthening, which can help ease aches and pains. Both Olivia Scira and Katie Picazo can attest to how beneficial it has been for them. Together, they co-own The Pilates Co.
The company’s founding was sparked by a need for a locally owned Pilates studio. One that catered to all bodies and walks of life. Built out of a love for the community and a desire to bring people together through health and wellness, the studio welcomes everyone.
All group classes are leveled, ensuring there is something for everyone. Beginners can start with the Reformer 1 class, while those with Pilates
ARTICLE BY AVA SARNOWSKI | PHOTOGRAPHY
BY ADA REY
experience can join Reformer 2. One-on-one sessions are also available for those seeking personalized instruction.
“It is so fulfilling to be a part of our community's everyday lives. Knowing that we are making a positive impact on the health and wellbeing of people gives us the motivation to constantly strive to be better in all areas of our business,” they said. They recognize the importance of exercise and the sense of accomplishment it brings after a class. It provides a mental boost and builds confidence—values their company ensures. Strengthening one’s body is a form of self-love.
ELEVATE YOUR REAL ESTATE EXPERIENCE
CELEBRATING COMMUNITY AND STYLE
The emergence of Salty Honey, a modern blend.
ARTICLE
BY AVA SARNOWSKI
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY ADA REY
So often, clothes are associated with memories: a voluptuous, puffy jacket worn in the snow, reliable activewear for an early morning jog, or a set of flannel pajamas paired with bedsheets fresh out of the dryer. Whether for comfort or style, everyone deserves to feel good in the clothes they purchase. For women in Southern California and beyond, Salty Honey has them covered. Their products, including loungewear, accessories, swimwear and much more, are the salt sprinkled onto an already honied day. Clothes that are guaranteed to sweeten a girl's memories, simplistic or grandiose.
Women attired in Salty Honey's activewear products.
Photo: More women attired in a variety of Salty Honey's clothing.
Women attired in Salty Honey's outerwear.
Behind the lens, Ada Rey captures the magic -but her golden retriever Atreyu, steals the shoot!
One of Salty Honey's activewear set, colored fuchsia.
Women attired in Salty Honey clothing.
Salty Honey's Grace Jumper product, covered in reindeers.
Taylor Leigh and Dianna Dahlgren are the founders of Salty Honey. Their friendship has prospered over the course of twenty years, and within that time, both have seen the other at their highest and lowest points. Through marriage and motherhood, their long-lasting bond is the kind that most women yearn to have.
Their hearts desire was to build a clothing brand that represented everyday women. With their combined backgrounds in fitness and fashion, their business has transformed into a mainstay of the local community. Their growth and authenticity have been showcased across social media, and in turn, resonated with women by the dozens. Both are elated to regularly engage with their customer base, and make it feel like a family.
For Leigh and Dahlgren, establishing a brand alongside the other has been a blessing. Their partnership has thrived because of their love and respect for one another, as well as maintaining self-control. Developing a brand from the ground up can be a fluctuating journey, and emotions can run high during low periods. Yet they ensure respectful communication and are always on the same page when making new choices.
Rest assured; Salty Honey’s products come from likeminded women. Their clothes embody womanhood and double as a statement. Each garment is crafted with love, intention and prayed over. Leigh and Dahlgren wish for any woman that wears their clothes to also know her worth and value. Salty Honey’s staff is
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Salty Honey
To support Salty Honey and learn more about what is currently in stock, visit https://saltyhoney.co/. From their catalogue of garments, including slippers, purses and intimates, any girl is bound to find something that aligns with their personal stye.
A look at Salty Honey's patriotic swimwear.
Photo: Taylor and Dianna celebrating Galentine's Day with cookies, flowers and balloons.
Another look at Salty Honey's patriotic swimwear.
all females, consisting of their close friends, previous customers, and previous ambassadors. Though the business is on a smaller scale, they operate with big ambitions. Everything they do is completed in house.
Considering the rapid expansion of the Salty Honey community, girls have seen other girls wearing their hoodies when visiting the beach or attending a concert. For many consumers, a shared appreciation for the brand has sparked the beginning of newfound friendships. Leigh and Dahlgren have been informed about the instant connections between some of their customers, and it makes them feel honored.
New goals for the company are made every year, and the founders work hard to turn those aspirations into reality. In 2025, they will work towards expanding into stores, meaning people finally see the brand in person. The sky’s the limit, and they could not be more excited for what comes next.
SNICKERDOODLES RECIPE
BY JENNIFER REUTGEN
Ingredients:
Dough
• • 3 cups all-purpose flour
• • 2 tsp cream of tartar
• • 1 tsp baking soda
• • 1 ½ tsp cinnamon
• • ½ tsp salt
• • 1 cup softened butter (unsalted)
• • 1 cup granulated sugar
• • 2 large eggs
• • 2 ½ tsp vanilla extract
Topping
• • 1/3 cup sugar
• • 1 ½ tsp cinnamon
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Combine topping ingredients in a small bowl and set aside.
3. Using a stand mixer or by hand, cream together softened butter and sugar. Add eggs and mix until creamy.
4. Add in cream of tartar, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and vanilla. Mix well.
5. Gradually add in flour.
6. Scoop dough into balls, about 1 heaping tablespoon each.
7. Roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
8. Sprinkle extra sugar on top if desired.
9. Bake at 375°F for 10 minutes.
10. Let cool on a wire rack. Enjoy!
Taylor and Dianna surrounded by friends for Galentine's Day.
FIVE STAR SERVICE
ARTICLE BY CHRISTINA VERHAGEN
Destinations to Match Your Journey
Exploring Together
While enjoying my birthday—and coincidentally Thanksgiving—in the aromatic sauna at the Murrieta Hot Springs Resort & Spa, I met a couple looking for an unconventional holiday experience. During our conversation, they shared that they had postponed their honeymoon, as many couples have had to do. They asked for destination suggestions, and my immediate advice was to first discuss their goals as a couple and ask themselves a few key questions.
Are they planning to start a family? Are they feeling disconnected from each other, their jobs, or themselves? Do they want to explore destinations to discover new cultures and ways of living? I shared my perspective on destinations based on how they have influenced me during different phases of my personal journey.
As humans, we have the capacity to evolve and transform. Life’s situations can shape us into who we aspire to be—or we can choose to stay the same. Regardless of your path, destinations can serve as companions on your journey, meeting you where you are and guiding you toward who you’re becoming.
FORESTS
Forest bathing invites us to connect with the earth beneath our feet and the moss on trees. It creates a surprising sense of home and safety, making it a perfect environment for grounding yourself before planting your own roots—whether through buying a home, starting a family, or finding a community. Suggested forests: Jeffersonville & Stowe, Vermont; Forest Park, Portland, Oregon; and the Redwood Forest, Northern California.
BEACHES
Watching ocean waves can be hypnotic, reflecting the ebbs and flows of life. The beach is ideal for meditation and clearing away the debris of the past. Whether alone or with others, the ocean offers space for renewal and fresh perspectives. Suggestions for extended stays: cruises, all-inclusive resorts, or campgrounds with beach access.
CITIES AND CULTURES
Leaving familiar environments can feel liberating. Immersing yourself in a new city or country invites exploration without judgment. You can pick up accents, learn new languages, and rediscover aspects of yourself. Suggestions: theme parks, East Coast cities, Europe, and Asia.
Wherever you are on your journey, there’s a destination waiting to guide you to your next chapter. See you there!
WHEREVER YOU ARE ON YOUR JOURNEY, THERE’S A DESTINATION WAITING TO GUIDE YOU TO YOUR NEXT CHAPTER. SEE YOU THERE!
THE
BOB MORRIS
ARTICLE BY REBECCA MARSHALL FARNBACH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SCOTT DOWNING PHOTOGRAPHY
A thirty-six-year-old Bob Morris rode into Temecula on horseback in 1969 when the population of Temecula and Murrieta together was less than 3,000. The undisturbed charm of the sleepy town grabbed him. He determined in a moment to move his family to Temecula where it would be his home for the remaining fifty years of his life.
At the time Bob fell in love with Temecula, Old Town was a rundown area bypassed by the state highway, but he and his new friend Tommy Hotchkiss determined to breathe life back into Temecula by updating it to an 1890s look, hoping to make it like the authentic cowboy town it once was. They started by changing the façade on Hotchkiss’s Swing Inn restaurant and moved on to other projects that continue to give Old Town its distinctive vibe today.
Bob said, “I wanted to keep Temecula as a fun place to walk through.” Now hundreds of residents and tourists have fun walking through Old Town each week enjoying the touches of the Old West with a wink of whimsy that he placed throughout.
You cannot enter Old Town without passing under one of the arches Bob designed with cutout images of Temecula’s past. Each person who passes the corners of Old Town Front Street and Main steps across the four medallions imbedded in the sidewalk that Bob created to celebrate eras of Temecula’s past. Throughout Old Town where you see a historic flourish, it was made by Bob Morris. He designed the Clocktower Building on Main Street, and the Tank Building and Antique Faire on Old Town Front Street.
Inspiration came to Bob at random times, and he drew his concepts on what was at hand, sometimes a napkin or a piece of board. Bob had a compulsion to salvage discarded architectural pieces and to design new and usable structures from the incredibly interesting historic parts. Bob savored not just the beauty of the rustic pieces, but also the stories the pieces told of places demolished and barely remembered.
Bob poured his heart into the construction of the Butterfield CONTINUED >
Square shopping center that dominated the corner across from the Swing Inn. It was a delightful and intriguing collection of rustic shops and restaurants. To construct it, Bob salvaged historical materials to reuse to extend their lives. Some of the components were the pressed metal ceiling from the Alberhill Post Office, wood remnants from the Hemet stock farm and an old Vail barn, a wood packing crate used to ship one of the Palomar telescopes, and windows from Murrieta Hot Springs. After being the cornerstone for activity in Old Town for forty years, a new owner demolished Butterfield Square in 2019 to make room for an ambitious hotel project that never came to fruition.
One of his lasting masterpieces is his home in DeLuz where he let his imagination run wild. Imagine using the bell of a tuba attached to a length of chain to drain water from the eaves, building a bedroom around a tree, and placing a clawfoot tub in the center of a room with a bay window looking out to oak woodlands.
Besides his artful additions to Old Town, Bob was also the main instigator for an annual event in Temecula. When asked how the famed Temecula Tractor Race started, he said he was visiting with his friend Warner Stewart from Murrieta.
“I remember the day … we stood looking at the old Dodge cars that had been converted into tractors during the Depression years which his relative had used to farm this valley. They had been sitting in the field for many, many years. You could tell that they had been touring cars at one time. Both were shortened and had Model T truck rear ends with bigger tires on the
GEMINI MOON RANCH
With so much of Bob Morris's vision being embedded in the character of his former property, the new owners of the ranch are proud stewards of his legacy and are happy to share this timeless treasure for filming, retreats, and events. For more information contact Tracy Finch at Info@ GeminiMoonRanch.com / www.geminimoonranch.com .
Now hundreds of residents and tourists have fun walking through Old Town each week enjoying the touches of the Old West with a wink of whimsy that he placed throughout.
back. Both were covered with rust and dirt. Hardened black rubber tires with weathered wood boxes used as seats and the grass that grew around them was as tall as the hoods. But I saw beauty especially in one. I think now because it was a little lower-slung. I asked Warner, ‘Do you think these will still run?’ Warmer put his arm on my shoulder and said, ‘You d*mn right they will,’ or something like that. I said I would like to buy this one, and Warner made me a heck of a deal.
And that day we made our wager that we would make them run and race from Murrieta to Temecula, so we met with Tommy Hotchkiss and told him of our plan and that is how the Great Temecula Tractor Race began.”
The Temecula Tractor Race became an annual event each fall that ran from 1977 to the mid-2000s. They started in the Murrieta Creek bed where participants came out wet and covered with mud. As word spread about the event, audiences of as many as 25,000 came to witness the ruckus. Bob drove his famous “Sodbuster” and Tommy Hotchkiss drove the “Sharecropper.”
When Bob died, a couple hundred people gathered to remember him at Vail HQ for a homey service under the shadow of the water tank he once owned. Friends were told to bring their own chairs, dress in Western garb, and to bring a plate of cookies to share. Well-behaved horses and dogs were also invited and some mingled with guests. Few of us are immortalized by monumental work that we have done, but Bob Morris, a gifted artist in the medium of historic architecture, will long be remembered for imbedding historical features into the ground we walk upon and the arches we walk under in Old Town Temecula.
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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 SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
EVERY FRIDAY & SATURDAY
Temecula Stampede - Line Dance Lessons
Temecula Stampede - 28721 Old Town Front Street, Temecula, CA 92590 | 6:30 PM
Put on your boots and two-step your way to fun at Temecula Stampede! Perfect for all skill levels, their line dance lessons offer a lively, upbeat atmosphere where you can learn new moves, meet friends, and enjoy the local country spirit. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, it’s the perfect way to kick up your heels!
EVERY FRIDAY & SATURDAY
The Comedy Club at Pechanga
Pechanga Resort Casino - 4500 Pechanga Parkway
Every Friday and Saturday, three comics take the stage at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Tickets are $25 for general admission and $35 for VIP seating. Tickets may be purchased through Pechanga Resort Casino’s website – Pechanga.com/entertain, at the Pechanga Box Office or at the door. Pechanga’s comedy shows are open to anyone 21 and older.
EVERY SUNDAY
Two Traveler’s Wine Bar + Merchant - Cellar Sunday
41911 5th Street, Suite 100, Temecula, CA 92590
Every Sunday night there’s a new wine selection, and a new story to share! Doors open at 4:30 pm and we pour until 9:00 pm. Prices vary per Cellar Sunday selection. These bottles are not on the shelves. In fact, they aren’t even on the wine list.
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FEBRUARY 1ST - 2ND
2025 Temecula Valley Barrel Tasting
Participating Wineries
Unfinished barrel and tank wine samples, as well as finished and newly released wines at this once-a-year barrel tasting event. Wineries will perfectly pair delectable food samplings with their wine. Two-day event! Ticket includes a one-time visit to each participating winery and includes wine and food samplings between the hours of 11:00am - 4:00pm.
FEBRUARY 4TH
Savage Chef - Happy Hour
30145 Antelope Road, Suite 106 Menifee, CA | 3:00 PM
Years ago, Dylan dreamed of a partner chef, and Mario sought a new venture. Fate reunited them in Temecula, where they built Savage Chef Bar & Grill—a haven of flavor and friendship. Experience their passion firsthand during Happy Hour every Tues & Thurs, 3-5 PM, with drink specials and 25% off select apps. Taste the story!
FEBRUARY 14TH & 15TH
Valentine’s Day Dinner
Ponte Family Estate Winery - The Barrel Room - 35053 Rancho California Road | 6:00 PM
Celebrate love with an enchanting Valentine’s Day dinner in the warm glow of candlelight, surrounded by the rustic charm of aging oak barrels. Ponte Winery invites you and your special someone to indulge in an unforgettable evening of fine dining and romance.
