Neighbors Newspaper December 2019

THE PAPER THAT BRINGS COMMUNITIES TOGETHER

Supporting Independent Businesses in Southwest Riverside County Since 1998

DECEMBER 2019 - FREE Holiday Celebrations, Events, Entertainment Breakfast with Santa Santa on Wheels Icefest at Galway Downs Taste of Old Town Temecula Social Media IQ – Linked in Profile - 2 History of the Poinsettia Safety Tips for Pets Decorating for the Season Table of Contents Page 6

“…But the angel said to them, Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy which will come to all the people. For to you is born this day in the town of David a Saviour, Who is Christ( The Messiah) the Lord!...” ~ Luke 2:10-11

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DECEMBER 2019

City of Temecula’s Pump Track Now Open

The City of Temecula is celebrating the new Pump Track located at the Ronald Reagan Sports Park (30875 Rancho Vista Road) next to the Temecula Skate Park.

A pump track is a continuous loop of rollers, and banked turns (berms) designed to be ridden completely by riders without having to pedal. Pump tracks are relatively simple to use and cater to a wide variety of skill levels of all ages. The City of Temecula’s new Pump Track has an asphalt surface to help reduce maintenance. It provides the ideal access to cycling from toddlers through professional cyclists, and is fun for the whole family. You don’t need a special bike to ride a pump track. In fact, you can ride BMX Bikes, Mountain

Bikes, Skateboards and Scooters (non-motors only). It’s a great workout, and lots of fun! Please note that safety helmets are required when riding in the pump track.

For more information, please call the Community Services Department at 951-694-6480.

DECEMBER 2019

PAGE 5

Mt. San Jacinto College Unveils ‘Blueprint for the Future’ at State of the College

Mt. San Jacinto College (MSJC) shared news about student successes, initiatives and programs, as well as new building projects at its State of the College at its Menifee Valley Campus.

“It’s an exciting and transitional time at Mt. San Jacinto College, with many important milestones on the horizon,” Dr. Roger Schultz, Superintendent/President of MSJC, told about 100 community leaders and residents. “Because of our partners, you and MSJC’s hardworking faculty, classified staff, and administrators, we truly do Transform Learners, Transform Communities, Transform Lives.”

Schultz and other college administrators unveiled plans for the new Temecula Valley Campus, which opens in Fall 2020; two STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) buildings at the San Jacinto and Menifee Valley campuses; a Student Center at the Menifee Valley Campus; and a new 5,000-seat stadium in Menifee that would host games and community events beginning in 2023.

Schultz also discussed the college’s free tuition program.

“Because we know the cost of tuition can prevent students from attending college, we created the MSJC Promise earlier this year that allows firsttime, full-time students to attend MSJC tuition free,” he said. More information can be found at msjc.edu/free.

He also shared information about the MSJC Foundation’s Pledge for Success, a basic-needs initiative that helps students with emergency food; books and supplies; professional clothing; basic, essential hygienic items; and emergency funding.

“The Pledge for Success has already made a difference in students’ lives and it’s growing thanks to dozens of generous donors, including many of my colleagues here at MSJC,” Schultz said. “If you’re interested in donating to this very worthy cause, please visit msjc.edu/PledgeforSuccess. Thank you for anything you can do to help us remove further barriers to our students’ success.”

Mt. San Jacinto College serves about 27,000 students in a district covering 1,700 square miles from the San Gorgonio Pass to Temecula, with campuses in San Jacinto, Menifee, Banning and Temecula.

In May 2019, Mt. San Jacinto College awarded a record-breaking 3,314 degrees and certificates to 1,707 graduates.

MSJC STATE OF THE COLLEGE LEADERS PANEL: The MSJC State of the College on Friday, Nov. 8, featured a question-and-answer portion that featured panel members (from left to right) Beth Gomez, Vice President of Business Services; Joyce Johnson, Executive Dean of Career Education; Dr. Jeremy Brown, Vice President of Instruction; and Dr. Roger Schultz, Superintendent/President of Mt. San Jacinto College. Photo ourtesy of Mt. San Jacinto College

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THANK YOU DECEMBER 2019

Support Our Local Businesses 24/7 Family Home Care .......................................8 Accipiter Marketing ............................................17 Animal Friends of the Valley...............................20 Artistic Expressions Permanent Makeup............24 Azuza Pacific University .....................................4 Au Savon de Provence French Soap ..................32 Barn Yard, The ...................................................33 Bingo for the Symphony ....................................37 Blissed Out Spa .................................................14 California Technical Academy .............................5 Calvary Murrieta- Women's Event......................27 Calvary Murrieta Christmas Eve Services...........28 Canyon Lake Choralers ......................................37 Cleaning & Moving Help......................................7 Decompress Express .........................................14 Doug Foster Holiday Art.....................................41 Elevate Lighting - Christmas Lights ...................12 Farmer's Wife, The.............................................34 First Light Home Care ........................................24 Galway Spirits Holiday Gifts .............................22-23 Grace Evangelical Free .......................................26 Harmony Gifts Angelz Design ............................35 Historic Hemet Theater ......................................29 Honey Cutt Farms ..............................................31 Hospice of the Valleys .........................................9 JDS Digifest ......................................................18 Jennifer Smart Foundation.................................37 Jeweler by Design ...............................................2 Jewel Scene .......................................................15 Lake Elsinore Outlets Christmas Event...............41 Lienzo Charro Mexican Restaurant ....................30 Little Burlap Barn ...............................................12 Menifee Bible Church .........................................27 Magic on Main St...............................................35 Mitchell Place Apartments .................................11 Mt. San Jacingo College......................................4 My Grannys' Attic ..............................................32 Naughty Pig Gourmet Meats ..............................30 Overflow Works .................................................3 Plumber- Ron Dumas..........................................7 Pole Position Carting .........................................18 Professor Pennypicles Holiday Events ...............42 Promenade in Temecula.....................................44 Rady's Children's Alexa's Playc .........................17 Revival Christian Fellowship Events ...................28 Rock the Oaks Fundraiser for Oak Grove ...........37 Santa on Wheels ................................................43 Searer Insurance Service ....................................9 Sizzler ................................................................31 Skydive Perris ....................................................10 Studio 395- Village on Grand ..............................7 Sweet Cheeks Skin Care.....................................13 Swim to Shore ...................................................16 Taste of Old Town ..............................................34 Teen Panel..........................................................19 Temecula IceFest at Galway Downs ...................43 Temecula Newcomers Club................................37 Temecula VIP Shuttle .........................................21 Temecula VIP Shuttle .........................................13 Temecula Valley Symphony................................29 Wickerd Farm Christmas Trees ..........................43

24

Ice Skating at Galway Downs

COMMUNITY

Murrrieta Friends of Library Kicks off 2020 .......................8 Holiday Light Exchange Program....................................14 History of the Poinsettia ..................................................15 Community Events ..........................................................37 Volunteering at the Temecula Police Dept.......................38

DINING

Taste of Old Town ............................................................34

EDUCATION

HOME

36 Seasonal Decorating

Simple Seasonal Styling..................................................36

KIDS

Temecula Opens Pump Track............................................4 Childrens’ Book Signing ..................................................19 Youth Symphony .............................................................16

PETS

Safety Tips for the Holidays ............................................10 Pets for Adoption ............................................................20

MSJC Unveils ‘Blueprint for Future’ ..................................5

ENTERTAINMENT

RECIPE

Apple Rose Tart ...............................................................30

Temecula Symphony Concerts .......................................12 Elton John Tribute ...........................................................32 Performances at the Old Town Theater...........................35

FAITH

VISITING OUR VINEYARDS

TemeculaVIPShullte .........................................................13 5 Adventures in Wine Country.........................................21

Joseph’s Prayer ...............................................................26 His Name is Jesus ...........................................................28

FAMILY

Social Media IQ – Linked In Profile 2.................................7 Parenting: Rekindling Christmas Joy ..............................16 What is Emotion Coaching? ............................................17 Christmas is Sharing and Caring.....................................25

HOLIDAY EVENTS

Icefest at Galway Downs.................................................24 Holiday Events, Santa, Bazaars etc. ...............................40

ABOUT US | CONTACT US

Publisher Diane Simones Director of Business Development Gino Simones Contributing Editors Susan Montgomery Carol Malin Tracy Williams Pastor John Stewart Joshua Straub PhD Aubrey Masters Chef Daniel Johnson

Dick Cronberg Rita Wood Dara Bowers Nellie Hathorn Julianne Neustel Lynn Effinger

Winterfest in Lake Elsinore ................................42 Word Search ......................................................19 Word Search Answer Key...................................19

32 Elton John Tribute

Art Director Dorina Blythe, GranDesigns

Contact Us Info@NeighborsNewspaper.com 951-244-7025 Fax: 951-848-9733

Mailing 31566 Railroad Canyon Road, Suite 2-575 Canyon Lake, CA 92587 View current and archive issues at Facebook.com/Neighbors.News

Neighbors Newspaper, a subsidiary of Simones Holdings Inc., is a monthly publication. Reproduction of any material without the expressed written consent of the Publisher is prohibited by law.

Opinions contained within are those of the authors and may not reflect the views of the Publisher or any staff members of Neighbors Newspaper and does not constitute any endorsement of information products or services. Neighbors Newspaper is not affiliated with any other publication.

Neighbors Newspaper has the right to refuse advertisement and editorial submissions.

FEATURE

History of Poinsettia Page 15

DECEMBER 2019

PAGE 7

What is Your Social Media IQ? Does Your LinkedIn Profile Need Help? Part 2

By Nellie Hathorn

Does your LinkedIn account need refreshing or do you want to set up an account to help yourself network or look for a job? Perhaps you don't know where to start. Let me point you in the right direction. You begin either on your computer www.linkedin.com or downloading the app from your app store. You will need an email and password to open your account. LinkedIn will guide you through the preliminary sections you will need to start your profile. Here are a few guidelines that can help you get the most out of your LinkedIn profile.

Tip #6 - Create your vanity URL Your default LinkedIn profile URL is likely long, and will include some strange combination of numbers. Thankfully, LinkedIn makes it very easy for you to create a customized vanity URL instead. make sure to update the URL anywhere you’re linking to your page, such as on your other social media pages like Facebook or in your email signature.

Tip #7 - Optimize for mobile character limits Make sure that everything on your profile, including any images and videos, look professional, still function and look good on the mobile app.

In March 2018, Google rolled out mobile-first indexing for search results. While you know this impacts your website, it’s important to remember it also impacts your LinkedIn presence. This is because both your LinkedIn profile and articles can rank in SERPs (Search Engine Results Page).

This is why it’s critical for your LinkedIn profile to be mobile friendly if you want people to find and engage with you. View your profile on mobile to make sure your character limits aren’t impacting your 'at a glance' information.

Tip #8 - Turn viewers into followers Strangers who come across your profile on LinkedIn are more likely to follow you than to connect with you. This is why it’s useful to change your default CTA (Call To Action) button on your profile to ‘Follow’ instead of ‘Connect.’

Changing the button can grow your network faster, and lead to more engagement. Plus, once people follow you, you can personally reach out and invite them to connect as well.

Tip #9 - Highlight your skills LinkedIn offers a number of optional sections that you can use to pad your profile. These include: • Languages spoken • Volunteer work

• Honors and awards • Publications

• And many more

Adding more elements to your profile creates new opportunities for people to connect with you. One particularly valuable section is ‘Skills and Endorsements’ - in fact, LinkedIn members who list at least five skills on their profiles will experience up to 17x more views.

Make sure you order your skills so that the top three are the most relevant, as these ones will get the most visibility. Also, you should look to regularly clean up your endorsements and get rid of any that you no longer want to showcase (or maybe never planned on sharing at all).

Make sure you maximize your profile page content for search results, focus on relevant and engaging messaging for viewers to encourage connections, and don’t be afraid to seek out endorsements and recommendations to help you establish yourself as an experienced leader.

We hope you find this information helpful. If you have any social media questions, please email them to socialmediaiq@neighborsnewspaper.com.

Have a great day!

Source: Social Media Today

Part 1 of this article can in the August 2019 issue. You can review this article by going to Facebook.com/neighbors-news. A link for the August issue is available there.

DECEMBER 2019

PAGE 8

Friends of the Murrieta Library Kick Off the 2020 Season

The Friends of the Murrieta Library kick off their 2020 season on January 21 at 10:00 am with guest speaker, Jeri Westerson. A Los Angeles native , Ms Westerson is the author of eleven Crispin Guest Medieval Noir novels, a series nominated for 13 national awards from the Agatha to the Shamus. Her first in the series, VEIL OF LIES was named Editor's Choice by the Historical Novel Society Review; her third THE DEMON'S PARCHMENT received a coveted starred review by Library Journal; and her sixth, SHADOW OF THE ALCHEMIST, was named Best of 2013 by Suspense Magazine. Also in 2013, her fifth novel BLOOD LANCE was named one of the "Ten Hot Crime Novels for Colder Days" by Kirkus Reviews. For her debut paranormal romance series, BOOKE OF THE HIDDEN, Jeri was invited as a paneled author to the fan convention DragonCon, and the book was a finalist for RT Magazine's Seal of Excellence Award.

Publishers Weekly said of it, "Readers sad about the ending of Charlaine Harris's MIDNIGHT, TEXAS trilogy will find some consolation in Moody Bog." A prolific writer, she has served as president for two terms for the Southern California Chapter of Mystery Writers of America, as vice president for the Los Angeles Chapter of Sisters in Crime, and twice president of the Orange County Chapter of Sisters in Crime. She frequently guest lectures on medieval history at local colleges and museums, and lives in southern California with her home-brewing husband, a complacent desert tortoise, and 40,000 bees. This is a return visit to the Friends for Ms. Westerson.

The Friends invite you to come and meet Ms. Westerson, visit with new friends and neighbors and enjoy the lovely refreshments provided. The public and guests are invited.

Not only do the Friends of the Murrieta Library provide support to the Murrieta Public Library through fund-raising, advocacy and volunteerism, they promote awareness of and support for the Library as it serves the informational, educational, cultural and recreational needs of our Community. Their monthly meetings serve as a lowkey cultural event for our local residents, providing the opportunity to meet, first hand, with established and published authors.

The Library is located at 8 Town Square, on Adams between Juniper

and Kalmia. For further information, please call Rita Nastri 698-8640. Or visit our website at www.murrietalibraryfriends.org

DECEMBER 2019

PAGE 9

The City of Temecula Community Services

Winter/Spring 2020 Guide to Leisure Activities is Available Now!

This book is your guide to the many classes, events, and programs offered through the Community Services Department. Registration for classes is open now. To browse content and to access or create an account, visit TemeculaCA.gov/TCSD. The City of Temecula brings classes of all kinds to the community!

Try out painting, dancing, yoga, and more! Or, sign your child up to participate in the many classes and camps in the subject that interests them.

While you are browsing the catalogue, be sure to check out offerings from the Community Services Department Facilities, including the Community Recreation Center, Aquatics, the Old Town Temecula Community Theater, and the Temecula Valley Museum, to name a few.

For more information, please visit TemeculaCA. gov/TCSD or call the Community Services Department at 951-694-6480.

DECEMBER 2019

PAGE 10

PAWS - Pet Advocacy, Welfare & Safety Holiday Safety Tips for Pets – Part 2: The Christmas Holidays

By Lauri Julian

With CHRISTMAS comes lots of decorations, trees and plants… all of which can be hazardous to your pets’ health. Here are some tips for keeping your pets safe this Holiday season.

Be Careful with Seasonal Plants. Holly, mistletoe, and poinsettia plants are poisonous to dogs and cats and should be kept out of their reach. You may consider using artificial plants. The ASPCA offers lists of plants that are toxic to both dogs and cats.

The Christmas tree: Securely anchor your tree so it doesn’t fall, causing possible injury to your pets. Don’t let them drink from the tree water, it’s a breeding ground for

bacteria. Pick up any fallen pine needles – if ingested, they can puncture your pet’s intestines.

Keep your cat from attempting to jump on the tree by placing aluminum foil, a plastic drink bottle filled with pennies, or anything else that creates

noise on the tree’s bottom limbs.

If you put lights on the tree’s lower branches, your pet could get tangled up and they may inadvertently get shocked by biting through the wire.

Ornaments need to be kept out of reach. In addition to being a choking and intestinal blockage hazard, shards from broken ornaments may cause injury to paws, mouths, and other parts of your pet’s body.

To prevent accidental electrocution, any exposed indoor or outdoor wires should be taped to the wall or the sides of the house.

Gift wrapping hazards: Keep your pet away from wrapping paper, string, plastic, or cloth which could cause intestinal blockages. Scissors should be kept off floors or low tables.

When tinsel is not so pretty. Kitties love this sparkly, “toy” that’s easy to play with, but if swallowed, it can lead to an obstructed digestive tract, severe vomiting, dehydration and possible surgery.

Holiday Glow: Don’t leave lighted candles unattended or in the reach of pets.

They may burn themselves or cause a fire if candles are knocked over by a wagging tail. If you leave the room, put the candle out!

Wired: Keep wires, batteries and glass or plastic ornaments out of paws’ reach.

A wire can deliver a potentially lethal electrical shock and a punctured battery can cause burns to the mouth and esophagus. Extension cords and holiday lights, if chewed, can cause mouth and throat burns.

PRECAUTIONS FOR PARTIES

Visitors can upset your pets; create a safe haven. Some pets are shy or excitable around people and holidays bring more visitors and higher noise/activity levels. Create a safe, quiet and comfortable space to reduce stress on your pet and keep them from running out the door. And your guests may appreciate your dogs not jumping or slobbering on them!

Leave a festive note for guests on the food table to remind them not to share holiday treats or alcohol with your pets.

Plates and cups should be kept out of pets’ reach.

DECEMBER 2019

PAGE 11 Careful with Cocktails: Be sure unattended alcoholic drinks are not accessible to pets. If ingested, your pet could become weak, ill and may even go into a coma, possibly resulting in death from respiratory failure.

Cannabis candies are especially dangerous as THC is toxic to dogs. Keep any type of marijuana out of reach – if you suspect your pet has ingested this substance in any form, call your vet immediately. You can also call the Animal Poison Control Center (888) 426-4435.

SKATE, SNAP & SHOP FOR THE ANIMALS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON Animal Friends of the Valley offers local animal supporters several opportunities to ‘paw it forward’ and raise funds for the lost, homeless and abandoned pets in Southwest Riverside

Tis the season for giving…and giving back! The howlidays are officially here and this December kicks off a month-long series of festive events and promotions benefitting Animal Friends of the Valleys and the lost, homeless and abandoned pets in Southwest Riverside.

Skate for the Animals Saturday, December 21 – IceFEST at Galway Downs IceFEST will “paw it forward” on Saturday, December 21 from 3-9pm by donating $1 from every ice skating ticket sold to Animal Friends of the Valleys. In addition, patrons bringing a can/bag of Purina cat or dog food November 22, 2019 thru January 6, 2020 will receive $1 off their skate admission.

Snap for the Animals Saturday, December 7, 14 & 15– Pet Photos with Santa at Petco Get your pet’s picture snapped with Santa and “paw it forward” at Petco’s annual Christmas photo fundraiser on Saturday December 7th, 14th and `15th from 1-4pm. For a donation of $9.98, pet parents will receive a commemorative digital photo of their fur baby while helping homeless animals find loving homes.

Shop for the Animals November 26 thru January 6 – Purchase a Plush Puppy, Raising Cane’s Now through thru January 5, 2020, chicken finger lovers can “paw it forward” when they purchase a limited-edition Jingle Cane Plush Puppy at any Raising Cane’s Southwest Riverside location.

For more information about the Animal Friends of the Valleys and their howliday events, visit https://animalfriends ofthevalleys.com/event-calendar/.

Watch the exits. Make sure you watch pets closely so they don’t escape. Notify neighbors you’re having a party and ask them to call you right away if they see one of your pets outside alone.

ID tags and microchips reunite families. Make sure your pet has proper ID with your current contact information.

The garage is not the best retreat. Antifreeze, even in very small amounts, can cause rapid kidney failure in dogs and cats.

NEW YEAR’S NOISE: Keep in mind strings of thrown confetti can get lodged in a cat’s intestines, noisy poppers can terrify pets and cause damage to ears, and many pets are scared of fireworks. So, as midnight approaches, secure them in a safe, quiet, escape-proof space.

Being prepared for these potential hazards may help your furry family members stay safe through the holidays and will help you keep your peace of mind.

YAPPY HOWLIDAYS!

DECEMBER 2019

PAGE 12

Temecula Valley Symphony’s 25th Season Continues!

Get Tickets Now at www.TemeculaValleySymphony.org or call 951-587-1536

Dec. 14, 2019 – Sat. 2pm – “JOYOUS CELEBRATION!” featuring Jonathan Hawkins and VOCI, an amazing male vocal quartet in the style of Il Divo. An uplifting concert full of Holiday Favorites including “Joy to the World,” “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” “A Carol Symphony,” “Christmas Overture,” Prokofiev’s “Troika.” VOCI will perform several exciting vocal works with the symphony!

Feb. 1, 2020 – Sat. 2pm – “A TRIBUTE TO BARBRA!” Back by popular de-

mand Sharon Owens’ breathtaking salute to Barbra Streisand will no doubt sell out. A real showstopper!

2020 – HOLD THESE DATES for more exciting concert programs: • Mar. 15, 2020 – Sun. 3pm – “CARNIVAL OF MUSIC” a free kids concert at Temecula’s Community Recreation Center.

• Apr. 11, 2020 – Sat. 2pm – “THE WINNERS!” featuring winners of the 2020 Concerto Competition along with “Pictures at an Exhibition,” Adagietto from Mahler, and the “2001 Space Odyssey Theme!” by Strauss.

• May 23, 2020 – Sat. 6:30pm – “A TRIBUTE TO HEROES” – Free concert at Temecula Civic Center.

• May 30, 2020 – Sat. 2pm – “COURAGE” (with Symphony & Chorus) – the Season’s Grand Finale!

TEMECULA VALLEY SYMPHONY is a 60-member orchestra under the baton of Music Director and Conductor, John Mario Di Costanzo and Associate Conductor Dr. Zun-Hin Woo.

CONCERT VENUE FOR TICKETED PROGRAMS: Golden Bears Theater, Temecula Valley H.S., 31555 Rancho Vista Rd., Temecula.

Call 951-587-1536 for more info or visit www.TemeculaValleySymphony.org

Enjoy symphonic music with a new twist! Come and join the experience of Music, Art, & Passion!

DECEMBER 2019

PAGE 13

Introducing Temecula VIP Shuttles Just in time for the holidays, Temecula VIP Shuttles is locally owned and operated by longtime local residents, Ralph and Lori Allen. Their vision is to provide professional transportation to help fill a growing need for families and business to get from Hotels, Airports, Wineries, and events such as holiday parties, weddings, concerts, wine tours, etc. Temecula VIP Shuttle’s 2 black Suburban SUV's and can carry up to 7 passengers each with luggage. The company has commercial TCP authority with the Public Utilities Commission, Airport Authority for pick-up and drop off from all Southern California airports and a $1,000,000 liability policy for passenger protection.

Ralph and Lori have been active with local Chambers of Commerce and service clubs in the past and are hoping for local community support as well as

Batter up!

Murrieta vs Temecula Creative Companies Compete for a Cause The Creative Bar and 60 Grit go head to head in a softball game to benefit local non-profit organizations

The teams will meet at Los Alamos Hills Sports Park, field #4, on December 7th, 2019 for a friendly, yet highly competitive, game of softball.

The softball game is about more than just fostering relationships and bragging rights though.

As a result, each company has selected a non-profit organization based in Murrieta and Temecula and will donate a set amount based on who wins and loses. The winner’s designated non-profit will receive $2,500 and the losing team’s designated non-profit will receive $1,000.

The Creative Bar has selected Oak Grove Center. Oak Grove Center is a nonprofit residential, educational and treatment Center (with multiple campuses) for children throughout California with psychological, emotional and behavioral problems and special needs.

60 Grit Studios has selected Charity for Charity, a non-profit organization raising funds to fulfill the wishes of local residents with life threatening illness or traumatic injury.

The softball game is open to members of both Murrieta and Temecula communities, with a concession stand open during the game for refreshments and all proceeds will be donated to the designated non-profit organization.

If you would like more information about this event, please call Meghan Burch at 866-7966307 x708, or email Meghan@thecreativebar.com.

By Diane Simones

support from the growing number of visitors to the area. “Living in the community since 1988, we have seen our communities explode with new opportunities,” added Ralph. “There is an expected boom in wine country tourism and expansion with many new wineries and hotels.”

Reserve yours your dates now by calling 951.757.1758, by email at valleyonline63@gmail.com or visit the website at www.TemeculaVIPshuttles.com.

Visa, MC and Amex accepted.

DECEMBER 2019

PAGE 14

FREE Holiday LED Light Exchange & Energy Efficiency Kit Giveaway

Come join the Western Riverside Council of Governments (WRCOG) at its 6th annual Holiday LED Light Exchange & Energy Efficiency Giveaway!

This holiday season save energy and water by attending one of five Holiday LED Light Exchange & Energy Efficiency Giveaways at a participating city including the Cities of Calimesa, Eastvale, Hemet, Murrieta, and Wildomar. Through the Western Riverside Energy Partnership, WRCOG provides the opportunity for Southern California Edison (SCE) and SoCalGas customers to attend and participate in one or both giveaways.

To take part in the Holiday LED Light Exchange participants must bring:

1. Up to two strands of functioning, incandescent lights, with 50 bulbs or more 2. A copy of SCE monthly bill (or proof of electronic payment)

3. A license or picture identification matching the customer name on the SCE bill

In addition to the light exchange, participants can also receive a free Energy Efficiency Kit from SoCal Gas that contains a low flow showerhead and three faucet aerators. To participate please bring: 1. A copy of monthly SoCalGas bill (or proof of electronic payment)

2. A license or picture identification matching the customer name on the SoCalGas bill

Only 150 holiday light strands and 50 Energy Efficiency Kits will be distributed at each event! Each participant may exchange up to two strands.

Check out one of the 2019 Holiday LED Light Exchange & Energy Efficiency Kit Giveaway events: •

•

Sat., Dec. 7 – Festival of Trees at City of Murrieta, Town Square Park from 5pm to 7pm.

Saturday, Dec. 14- Breakfast with Santa at City of Wildomar Fire Station 61, 32657 Gruwell St., Wildomar from 8am – 11am

For additional information or questions, please view the flyer or contact Anthony Segura at (951) 405-6733 or asegura@wrcog.us

DECEMBER 2019

PAGE 15

The History of Poinsettias at Christmas

and made them into a small bouquet. She felt embarrassed because she could only give this small present to Jesus. As she walked through the chapel to the altar, she remembered what Pedro had said. She began to feel better, knelt down and put the bouquet at the bottom of the nativity scene. Suddenly, the bouquet of weeds burst into bright red flowers, and everyone who saw them were sure they had seen a miracle. From that day on, the bright red flowers were known as the 'Flores de Noche Buena', or 'Flowers of the Holy Night'.

The shape of the poinsettia flower and leaves are sometimes thought as a symbol of the Star of Bethlehem which led the Wise Men to Jesus. The red colored leaves symbolize the blood of Christ. The white leaves represent his purity.

The Poinsettia is also the national emblem of Madagascar.

Poinsettia plants are native to Central America, especially an area of southern Mexico known as 'Taxco del Alarcon' where they flower during the winter. The ancient Aztecs called them 'cuetlaxochitl'. The Aztecs had many uses for them including using the flowers (actually special types of leaves known as bracts rather than being flowers) to make a purple dye for clothes and cosmetics and the milky white sap was made into a medicine to treat fevers. (Today we call the sap latex!)

The poinsettia was made widely known because of a man called Joel Roberts Poinsett (that's why we call them Poinsettia!). He was the first Ambassador from the USA to Mexico in 1825. Poinsett had some greenhouses on his plantations in South Carolina, and while visiting the Taxco area in 1828, he became very interested in the plants. He immediately sent some of the plants back to South Carolina, where he began growing the plants and sending them to friends and botanical gardens.

One of the friends he sent plants to was John Bartram of Philadelphia. At the first Philadelphia flower show, Robert Buist, a plant-man from Pennsylvania saw the flower and he was probably the first person to have sold the poinsettias under their botanical, or Latin name, name 'Euphorbia Pulcherrima' (it means, 'the most beautiful Euphorbia'). They were first sold as cut flowers. It was only in the early 1900s that they were sold as whole plants for landscaping and potted plants. The Ecke family from Southern California were one of, if not, the first to sell them as whole plants. It is thought that they became known as Poinsettia in the mid-1830s when people found out who had first brought them to America from Mexico.

There is an old Mexican legend about how Poinsettias and Christmas come together, it goes like this: There was once a poor Mexican girl called Pepita who had no present to give the baby Jesus at the Christmas Eve Services. As Pepita walked to the chapel, sadly, her cousin Pedro tried to cheer her up.

'Pepita', he said "I'm sure that even the smallest gift, given by someone who loves Him will make Jesus Happy."

Pepita didn't know what she could give, so she picked a small handful of weeds from the roadside

DECEMBER 2019

PAGE 16

Conscious Parenting ~

Rekindling Christmas Joy

By Traci L. Williams

Are you anticipating the Joy of Christmas or expecting the stress that often accompanies it? Do your children feel the excitement of decorating and planning or are they bogged down with life? Christmas Joy is not only possible, it is something we need to be passing on to our children.

Let’s look at three things that steal Christmas Joy and see what we can do to resolve them:

1) Money. Everyone goes through financial ups and downs; it’s part of life.

If this is a season of financial abundance, find a way to share it. That will bring you tremendous joy! If this is a season of less financial abundance, simplify. Focus on love, quality time and handmade gifts from the heart. They are meaningful and do not create debt. You and your children can paint ornaments, make cards, write poems and bake cookies. A sweet handmade ornament will be cherished by your child’s teacher, a friend, or a grandparent for years to come. There are so many creative and inexpensive ways to let people know you care about them this Christmas.

2) Time. We all get the same 24 hours. It’s all about how each person chooses to spend those hours. Sometimes it feels like we don’t have a choice, but we do. Who will you choose to spend time with over the holidays? What will you choose to spend your time doing? Make a list of people and things that bring you joy at Christmas and a list of people and things that allow you to bring joy to others. Add them to your calendar and teach your children the value of joy. Joy is good for the soul.

3) People. Every family has that aunt or uncle, grandparent or family friend that rubs people the wrong way. If it is inevitable that you will be with such a person over the holidays, try one of two things: (1) Limit your direct contact. Focus on the people you enjoy while at that family event. (2) Listen from a different perspective. What has

happened in that person’s life to contribute to their challenges? You may not enjoy being around them, but could you have compassion for them? How can you love them, even though it’s hard and uncomfortable? You may not be able to do this for everyone, but could you do it for one person this year?

Each generation has a choice to leave the generation that follows with more or less love, values and connection. What footprint are you leaving for your children and grandchildren? Not just at Christmas, but all throughout the year.

Your children are watching your every move. They take mental notes without even realizing it. They see your heart. They see your integrity. They see your Joy. You have influence over their future every time you choose between Joy and stress. You have influence every time you make choices around money, time and people. Rekindle your Joy at Christmas so your children get to experience it. This can be a wonderful time for family, sharing and love.

Wishing you and your family the most Joy-filled Christmas yet!

Traci L. Williams is the Founder of A Loving Way to Parent. She provides parenting classes, teen programs and individual coaching. She is known for her practical parenting style and can be reached directly at 951-240-1407 or traci@alovingway.com. www.alovingway.com

Temecula Valley Youth Symphony is the region’s premier orchestra for aspiring young musicians who want to be part of a creative, educational, and fun-filled musical learning experience!

Temecula Valley Youth Symphony (TVYS) enriches the lives of student musicians with outstanding educational and performance opportunities for music students at all levels, in a nurturing and challenging environment. TVYS is a tuition-based program. A few scholarships are available for students in need. New students should call the number below to set up an audition and discuss enrollment.

BEGINNING STRINGS CLASS is also available for those beginning level string players! (Violin, Viola, Cello, String Bass)

FALL SEMESTER has begun and new students may audition on any Monday. Rehearsals are held every Monday afternoon and evening in Murrieta at Warm Springs Middle School. On occasion we use a different venue.

• 4:00 to 4:30 pm – Prelude I, Beginning Strings – for first time beginners.

SCHEDULE – Ensembles for ALL Student Levels

• 4:30 to 6:00 pm – Prelude II, Beginning Strings – for children who have played their instrument for at least one year. – Gina Wingfield, instructor • 4:30 to 6:00 pm – Jr. Youth Symphony conducted by Dr. Sylvia Lee Mann

• 6:15 to 8:30 pm - Youth Symphony conducted by Dr. Zun-Hin Woo

CONCERTS: The group performs five concerts per season, in addition to various civic performances. Next up: • Monday - DEC. 16, 2019, 7:00 PM – WINTER WONDERLAND • Monday - MAR. 16, 2020, 7:00 PM –THE SOUNDS OF SPRING

• Monday - MAY 11, 2020, 7:00 PM – GRAND FINALE

Temecula Valley Youth Symphony - (951) 587-1536 www.TemeculaValleyYouthSymphony.org Contact: Alana Joos • alana@temeculavalleyyouthsymphony.org Note: Auditions are available throughout the season.

DECEMBER 2019

Kids

PAGE 17

What Is Emotion Coaching, and How Might It Help Your Child?

By Nora Camacho, MA, BCBA, LMFT

Children of all ages experience emotional ups and downs. For instance, a child may cry hysterically over being given the “wrong” cup at breakfast, while a teenager may protest profusely when told they cannot stay out late with friends. Although these situations may seem irrational to a parent or caregiver, to a child, their reactions feel important and justified. Parent responses to this type of behavior can vary greatly depending on their parenting style, which psychological researcher Dr. John Gottman categorizes into the following four major areas: • A dismissive parent reacts by telling the child to “get over it,” leaving the child feeling ignored and withdrawn • A disapproving parent sends the message that the child should not be upset, shaming the child for having the emotional reaction • A laissez-faire parent gives in to the child’s demands, promoting a sense of entitlement that can lead to impulsiveness • An emotion coaching parent empathizes with the emotion that the child is experiencing while also setting expectations, helping the child to learn and trust their emotions

At Alexa’s Playful Learning Academy for Young Children (PLAYC), Rady Children’s early childhood education program with locations in San Diego and Murrieta, staff believe that utilizing an emotion coaching response with children is the most ideal style a family or educator can adopt. Children often feel very strong emotions without having a good grasp on what the emotion means, where it is coming from or what to do with it. Through emotion coaching, we ensure that children learn how to understand and manage their emotions, in turn supporting positive self-image and relationships with others as the child grows. The following tips from Dr. Gottman can help you use the emotion coaching approach with your child: • Be aware of your child’s emotions and try to determine what they may be feeling, thinking about the situation from their perspective • Encourage your child to talk about an emotion when the situation arises, and think about using a time when you may have felt the same emotion as way to connect • Empathize with the emotion that your child is describing without judging or criticizing • Help to label what the child is feeling, which will support growth in their vocabulary and emotional intelligence • Aid your child in finding a solution to the problem while still setting and maintaining limits

In the cup example above, a parent who uses emotion coaching can notice that their child is upset and take advantage of the opportunity to teach the child about their emotional experience. They might say, “I noticed that you’re feeling upset. Can you tell me what you are feeling?” The parent can then support the child in understanding their emotion and can also work to expand emotional vocabulary by suggesting that the child might be feeling “disappointed” or “unhappy.” Finally, the parent might work to help the child find a solution without simply giving in to what the child wants. For instance, while the parent will not get the child the preferred cup, they can tell the child when the favorite cup will be available again. Through this experience, the child learns to be confident in their experience of different feelings and begins to gain greater control of them.

Nora Camacho is a behavior specialist at Alexa’s PLAYC. For more information on Alexa’s PLAYC Murrieta, please call 858-966-8797.

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Kids

DECEMBER 2019

2019…A CREATIVE YEAR IN REVIEW ®

From a Successful DigiFest to Collaborative TV Partnerships…and Beyond!

Putting together a year in review article for any business can seem a bit daunting, and that’s especially true when talking about all that goes on at JDS Studios…events, visual, performing and digital arts classes, a News Magazine Program, a growing Digital Media Festival and Conference, Partnerships with several cities’ and their TV stations, and including the County

of Riverside and their TV outlet. 2019 also featured our biggest Haunted Studio yet - top that off with our growing video training program for adults with developmental disabilities, one would think we’d be exhausted…instead, we can hardly wait to see what 2020 will bring!

By looking back over the year, we can’t help but look forward to the next chapter for each of our programs and entities. At JDS Studios, we’ve taken a vision where creatives of all types can find a place to grow their craft. From budding actors to set designers, musical theater prodigies, to fashion designers, students of the digital arts to tomorrow’s news reporters, camera operators, producers, editors and directors are all able to find a visual, performing or digital arts program within the walls of JDS Studios.

2019 kicked off with our spring classes, our 4th episode of Spectrum of Innovation, an industry showcase, and a chamber mixer, all leading up to the April three-day festival, conference and competition celebrating the digital media world. DigiFest® Temecula 2020 season has already begun with open submissions in the following categories: Animators, Short Film & Video, Podcast and Vloggers, Photographers, Illustrators, Musicians, Gamers and Website Developers to compete for the much sought after DigiAward! With the full support of the City of Temecula, this is a vehicle for the community and region to come together and experience digital media in many creative and artistic forms.

“JDS Creative Academy has seen tremendous growth in 2019. We are now a staff of 17, and have 22 Inland Regional Consumers enrolled in our training program.” Diane Strand, Founder JDSCA Our Spring, Summer Camp, and Fall programs feature the youth of The Valley who participate in live theater productions to develop their creative skills from acting to backstage production with plays and musicals designed to showcase their experience. The public is always invited to these FREE performances. Please keep your eye on our social media for details, and reserve your seat today for the December 21st & 22nd Winter Showcase.

RSVP at JDSActorsStudio.com to see JDS Studios’ collaboration from JDS Creative Academy and JDS Actors Studio in the productions of Little Scrooge & Little Shop.

One of our most exciting programs is our Video Production hands-on training program incorporating students from Mt. San Jacinto College as apprentices and adults with developmental disabilities from Inland Regional Center. Participants in the program are fully immersed in producing, writing, editing, operating cameras, a tri-caster, and teleprompter for their LIVE weekly SOI Update show, a spin-off of our monthly magazine-style show Spectrum of Innovation News & Information for Riverside County. To learn more about JDS Creative Academy’s DigiFest$ Temecula visit JDSCreativeAcademy.org, or DigiFestTemecula.org, or phone 951-296-6715.

DECEMBER 2019

Kids

PAGE 19

New Children’s Book to be Introduced at the Temecula Barnes and Nobel Kayak Jack and Amico Go to Baja Local children’s book author, Susan Diorio, will be featured at the Temecula Barnes and Noble’s ‘Sit & Sign’ Event on Saturday, January 11, 2020. She will be reading her recently published book, Kayak Jack and Amigo Go to Baja, at the 11:00 a.m. story time and will participate in a “Sit and Sign” event from 12 – 4 p.m. The event provides an opportunity for customers to speak with the author and take home a personalized book.

Susan’s debut work is about a young boy and his best friend and traveling buddy who paddle into the fascinating waters surrounding the Baja, Mexico peninsula. Together they encounter the amazing animals, birds and sea life of the Sea of Cortez and Pacific Ocean. The book is based on the author’s personal kayaking experiences.

Diorio has lived in the Temecula/Murrieta valley area for over 40 years and is a retired teacher. She was inspired by her many trips to Baja and books she read about Baja written

Did you find all of the words that have to do with

So Cal Mountains from djr

Christopher Columbus Sir Francis Drake John Cabot Francis Xavier Ferdinand Magellan Abel Tasman Willem Janszoon

Samuel de Champlain Jacques Cartier Hernando Cortes Vasco Nunez de Balboa Pedro Alvares Cabral Henry Hudson Willem Barentsz

WORD SEARCH FOR KIDS FROM A KID

Can you find all of the words that have to do with

Santa Around the World

dedt moroz mikulas papai noel

hoteiosho julenisse pere noel

noel baba joulupukki weihachtsmann

from djr

daidina nollag pai natal father christmas

DECEMBER 2019

PAGE 20

PETS

Pet Adoptions of the Month

Retrievers and Friends

Cole is a beautiful, 5 month old kitten. He’s very friendly.

Tiger is a 4 month old Chihuahua, about 4 lbs. He’s a sweet little guy with a great temperament and personality.

To find out more about these and other pets available for adoption, and to fill out an online application, please visit: www.retrieversandfriends.com.

Spottie is a cute, 4 year old Doxie mix. He’s good with other dogs, friendly with kids, walks well on a leash and is about 17 lbs. Spottie is a very loving, happy boy.

Ryder is a handsome, 3 year old Red Heeler/Terrier mix. He’s house-trained, loves to go for walks, is about 40 pounds and will be a wonderful companion.

Ryder would be best with adults.

The Gift of a New Pet

Rather than picking out an animal to give based on what you think they’d enjoy, prepare an “adoption kit” filled with supplies like toys and food, along with a gift certificate that covers adoption fees at a local shelter.

DECEMBER 2019

Visiting Our Vineyards

5 Adventures in Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country

PAGE 21

By Annette Brown

This winter area residents and their guests can visit beautiful Temecula Valley to check off five bucket list worthy activities from their must-do adventure list from a hot air balloon flight to limo rides, exploring wine country by foot or on horseback, and watching the California sun set behind the mountain range.

Float in a Hot Air Balloon

For the ultimate airborne adventure, check a hot air balloon flight off your bucket list while in Temecula Valley. Visitors can take in a panoramic view of Southern California’s unique topography, beautiful estates, and awe-inspiring scenery with sunrise flights, available year-round (weather-permitting). Passengers float above the vineyards and citrus groves with the scent of fresh oranges filling the skies.

Ice Skate Under Sunny Skies

One of the great parts of living in California is that the winter season provides some beautiful outdoor weather. During this time, Old Town Temecula, Galway Downs, and Peltzer Farms all provide outdoor ice-skating rinks for those who want the thrill of throwing on skates and braving the slippery ice. As Temecula Valley rarely gets snow, this provides families the opportunity to enjoy a day ice-skating in some beautiful settings.

Take a Wine Country Tour

Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country features nearly 50 local wineries! Yes, there are 50 wineries to choose from including boutique and full-service wine resorts, for an adventure to enjoy with friends, family, and to celebrate special occasions. When was the last time you visited wine country?

Watch a Sunset

As the California sun sets behind Temecula Valley each evening, the hills of wine country come alive with shimmers of light reflecting the yellows, oranges, purples, and pinks of the sun’s last moments. Fantastic sunset viewing locations are available at Callaway Vineyard and Winery and Bel Vino Winery.

Ride Horseback

Saddle up for a bucket-list adventure atop a gentle steed. Horse trails in Temecula Valley’s wine country are perfect for exploration and wine tasting on horseback. Firsttimers can book lessons or introductory trail rides for both guided group tours and onyour-own endeavors. For a breathtaking view, consider taking trails to Vail Lake.

About Visit Temecula Valley

Laid back, picturesque Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country welcomes more than three million visitors each year. It is a year-round vacation destination.

Visit Temecula Valley is the region’s official tourism marketing organization and resource for visitors. The Visitors Center is located in Old Town Temecula.

For visitor information and assistance, please call (888) 363-2852 or go to VisitTemeculaValley.com.

PAGE 24

DECEMBER 2019

Local Families Return to Galway Downs with Ice Skating Rink and Christmas Festival to Celebrate the Holiday Season The Temecula IceFEST at Galway Downs will produce the ultimate holiday experience and ice-skating rink for families to enjoy this winter season.

The Temecula IceFEST at Galway Downs, a new and local family-run holiday festival, will provide fun and joy to Southern California families eager for a new way to celebrate the season. The event – complete with ice skating, community events, live music, food and beverage – is nestled in Temecula Wine Country at the legendary Galway Downs equestrian property. This all-in-one winter festival promises to be the perfect setting for building lifelong family traditions, fostering friendships, and making memories to last forever. The local Tompot and Smith families behind the project hope to spread the Christmas spirit throughout Temecula’s fun, family community in an all-new way.

“We had such an amazing time connecting with our community during our previous Christmas festival that even through all of our ups and downs, we always knew we’d find a way to come back.” says co-owner and operator Ronny Tompot. “We love our home town of Temecula, and we see the IceFEST as a way to build our own family traditions and grow deep roots within our remarkable community. The joy on the kids’ faces makes it worth all of the hard work that goes into a production of this caliber. From the school fundraisers and Girl Scout patch program, to the Holiday Bazaar and community stage, we feel that everyone from our community can enjoy and benefit from the IceFEST in their own way.”

Beyond the 7200-square-foot rink at the center of the action, holiday revelers can expect to see performances by local artists and choirs, hay rides, movie nights, a craft fair, open-air ice skating under the stars, and photos with Santa.

The festival is also offering fundraising opportunities for local schools and partnering with local charitable organizations.

The Temecula IceFEST will provide Temecula’s largest ice rink and full family festival for six weeks. They will kick off the 2019-2020 holiday season on November 22nd at 4pm with ice skating and food available from Handler Hospitality. The New Year’s Eve party will provide a family-friendly countdown at 9pm, and an adults-only midnight celebration.

Parking and admission to the Temecula IceFEST are free. Ice skating admission is $17, and skate rental is included. Children 3 and under are free with paid adult admission. Skate-aids will be available free of charge. The Temecula IceFEST at Galway Downs will be open daily November 22, 2019 to January 6, 2020. Hours will vary by day, with limited hours on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, and subject to change due to weather. They will be supporting local charities and volunteer and sponsorship opportunities are available.

About Temecula IceFEST at Galway Downs Temecula IceFEST at Galway Downs is an all-new holiday festival coming this Christmas season to Temecula, CA. The brainchild of two local Temecula families, Temecula IceFEST will provide an all-in-one family Holiday festival experience in one beautiful and spacious setting.

Details and calendar updates are at w w w. t e m e c u l a i c e f e s t . c o m . www.facebook.com/temeculaicefest and Instagram @temeculaicefest Phone: (951) 595-2145.

About Galway Downs Opened in 1968 as the Rancho California Track and Training Center, this expansive property spans 242 acres and a lifelong legacy of Equestrian excellence.

DECEMBER 2019

PAGE 25

Christmas is Sharing and Caring

By Judith Scharfenberg

Let’s face it. Christmas can be downright overwhelming. So many of us dread the hustle and bustle, the commitments, the shopping, the parties……. And now we’re reminded of the upcoming holiday before Halloween is even over. My daughter Jennifer shared a simple plan that she has used in her family for years. Jennifer is a teacher and her ideas are creative, tried and tested. I think you will find them refreshing.

Want - Family trip to Disneyland trip in February

Need - New athletic shoes, a jacket or sweater, that favorite T-shirt they’ve been asking for or a special backpack. Save the socks and underwear for another day.

Wear - New PJ’s for Christmas Eve. Treats and a movie. Their favorite is Elf with Will Ferrell. They wear their new PJ”s, get their favorite treats ready and watch the movie together. Depending on the age of your children, other great classics might include, It’s a Wonderful Life, The Muppet Christmas Carol, Miracle on 34th Street, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, The Polar Express, Home Alone, A Christmas Story, White Christmas, Frosty the Snowman, Holiday Inn, A Charlie Brown Christmas, Santa Buddies, Prancer and the list goes on and on. Search online and you will find enough movies to keep you going all month long.

Read – Jennifer has a basket of Christmas books that she only brings out in December. Some they read on their own, others they will read together as a family. They love re-reading these classics year after year. A few suggestions include • The Best Christmas Pageant by Barbara Robinson • The Gift of the Magi by O. Henry

• The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg

• How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss • One Wintry Night by Ruth Bell Graham

• Jotham’s Journey, A Storybook for Advent by Arnold Ytreeide • The Legend of the Poinsettia by Tomie dePaola

• Twas’ the Night Before Christmas by Sandra Magsamen

• A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens (For older children)

Another family I know wraps 24 books and puts them under the Christmas tree.

They let their kids choose one book each night before Christmas, open the gift and then they spend some time reading to them.

Building your library of Christmas books can cost a little bundle, so begin early by checking books out at the library, searching through thrift stores and buying used books on Amazon.

More ideas. Choose a fun family activity for each day of December until Christmas week. Examples might include: • Make a Christmas ornament • Decorate the house • Trim the tree

• Bake cookies for a neighbor - Better yet deliver them after dinner and have your whole family go with you and do some Christmas caroling.

• Volunteer to take or serve meals to the elderly or shut-ins. The senior center in your city has a number of events you can help with.

• Spend time in prayer for those you have received Christmas cards from. Send them a note to let them know you prayed; it will encourage them.

• Invite your children’s friends in to bake cookies. One mother I know tells the Christmas story using the shape of cookie cutters to get things going. She asks the questions, “What do you think of when you see the Christmas tree, who do you think gave the very first Christmas gift, who received it, etc. Cookie cutters could include a star, an angel, a cross, a candle, a dove, a musical note. Any one of these lends itself to a wonderful segue into sharing the Christmas story from the Bible. (The Gospel of Luke, Chapter 2) She encourages the children to take their cookies home and share the story with their families.

• Dress up as Santa and Mrs. Claus and visit children who are in the hospital over the holiday. If you’re children are still at home have them dress as elves and pass out toys you’ve picked up at the Dollar Store or other inexpensive places. It is amazing what you can find in thrift stores today.

• Have a Christmas tea for the women in your neighborhood. Many women do work outside their home, but you would be surprised to see there are still some who are at home and would love nothing better than to gather for an afternoon of tea and conversation.

Send them home with one of the Christmas ornaments you and your family made. Or you could have supplies available and all make an ornament together. It’s amazing how quickly you can connect with someone while making a craft or sipping on tea.

These are just a few suggestions to enhance your holiday season. I am sure you have ideas of your own. Whatever you do, take time to make this season of giving a real game-changer by giving your time, your talents and your love to others. Don’t let the “busyness” take the heart out of your Christmas. I have an idea this may be your best December yet.

Judy Scharfenberg is an author, mentor and speaker at conferences, retreats and other women’s events. Her newest book, Secure Families in a Shaky World is available at www.redemption-press.com or from the author herself.

Married to Richard for 42 yrs., mother of six and grandmother to sixteen, Judy lives in Murrieta, California. If you would like to know more about a relationship with God or book her for an event, email her at: judyspeaksandwrites@gmail.com, or call 951-310-1421.

THE GOOD NEWS

PAGE 26

DECEMBER 2019

“Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel” (which means, God with us). ~ Matthew 1:23

Joseph’s Prayer (Christmas)

By Max Lucado

When You’re Confused by God’s Actions “Joseph … did what the Lord’s angel had told him to do.” Matthew 1:24 The white space between Bible verses is fertile soil for questions. One can hardly read Scripture without whispering, “I wonder …”

“I wonder if Eve ever ate any more fruit.”

“I wonder if Noah slept well during storms.”

“I wonder if Jonah liked fish or if Jeremiah had friends.”

“Did Moses avoid bushes? Did Jesus tell jokes? Did Peter ever try

water-walking again?”

“Would any woman have married Paul had he asked?”

The Bible is a fence full of knotholes through which we can peek but not see the whole picture. It’s a scrapbook of snapshots capturing people in encounters with God, but not always recording the result. So we wonder: When the woman caught in adultery went home, what did she say to her husband?

After the demoniac was delivered, what did he do for a living?

After Jairus’s daughter was raised from the dead, did she ever regret it?

Knotholes and snapshots and “I wonders.” You’ll find them in every chapter about every person. But nothing stirs

so many questions as does the birth of Christ. Characters appear and disappear before we can ask them anything. The innkeeper too busy to welcome God—did he ever learn who he turned away The shepherds—did they ever hum the song the angels sang? The wise men who followed the star—what was it like to worship a toddler? And Joseph, especially Joseph. I’ve got questions for Joseph.

Did you and Jesus arm wrestle? Did he ever let you win?

Did you ever look up from your prayers and see Jesus listening?

How do you say “Jesus” in Egyptian?

What ever happened to the wise men?

What ever happened to you?

We don’t know what happened to Joseph. His role in Act I is so crucial that we expect to see him the rest of the drama—but with the exception of a short scene with twelve-year old Jesus in Jerusalem, he never reappears. The rest of his life is left to speculation, and we are left with our questions.

But of all my questions, my first would be about Bethlehem. I’d like to know about the night in the stable. I can picture Joseph there. Moonlit pastures. Stars twinkle above. Bethlehem sparkles in the distance.

There he is, pacing outside the stable.

What was he thinking while Jesus was being born? What was on his mind while Mary was giving birth? He’d done all he could do—heated the water, prepared a place for Mary to lie. He’d made Mary as comfortable as she could be in a barn and then he stepped out. She’d asked to be alone, and Joseph has never felt more so.

In that eternity between his wife’s dismissal and Jesus’ arrival, what was he thinking? He walked into the night and looked into the stars. Did he pray?

For some reason, I don’t see him silent; I see Joseph animated, pacing. Head shaking one minute, fist shaking the next. This isn’t what he had in mind. I wonder what he said…

This isn’t the way I planned it, God. Not at all. My child being born in a stable?

This isn’t the way I thought it would be. A cave with sheep and donkeys, hay and straw? My wife giving birth with only the stars to hear her pain?

This isn’t at all what I imagined. No, I imagined family. I imagined grandmothers.

I imagined neighbors clustered outside the door and friends standing at my side. I imagined the house erupting with the first cry of the infant. Slaps on the back. Loud laughter.

Jubilation. That’s how I thought it would be.

The midwife would hand me my child and all the people would applaud. Mary would rest and we would celebrate. All of Nazareth would celebrate.

But now. Now look. Nazareth is five days’ journey away. And here we are in a … in a sheep pasture. Who will celebrate with us? The sheep? The shepherds? The stars?

This doesn’t seem right. What kind of husband am I? I provide no midwife to aid my wife. No bed to rest her back. Her pillow is a blanket from my donkey. My house for her is a shed of hay and straw.

The smell is bad, the animals are loud. Why, I even smell like a shepherd myself.

Did I miss something? Did I, God? When you sent the angel and spoke of the son being born—this isn’t what I pictured. I envisioned Jerusalem, the temple, the priests, and the people gathered to watch. A pageant perhaps. A parade. A banquet at least. I mean, this is the Messiah!

Or, if not born in Jerusalem, how about Nazareth? Wouldn’t Nazareth have been better? At least there I have my house and my business. Out here, what do I have? A weary mule, a stack of firewood, and a pot of warm water. This is not the way I wanted it to be! This is not the way I wanted my son.

Oh my, I did it again. I did it again didn’t I, Father? I don’t mean to do that; it’s just that I forget. He’s not my son … he’s yours.

The child is yours. The plan is yours. The idea is yours. And forgive me for asking but … is this how God enters the world? The coming of the angel, I’ve accepted. The questions people asked about the pregnancy, I can tolerate. The trip to Bethlehem, fine. But why a birth in a stable, God?

DECEMBER 2019

THE GOOD NEWS

Any minute now Mary will give birth. Not to a child, but to the Messiah. Not to an infant, but to God. That’s what the angel said. That’s what Mary believes. And, God, my God, that’s what I want to believe. But surely you can understand; it’s not easy. It seems so … so … so … bizarre.

I’m unaccustomed to such strangeness, God. I’m a carpenter. I make things fit. I square off the edges. I follow the plumb line. I measure twice before I cut once. Surprises are not the friend of a builder. I like to know the plan. I like to see the plan before I begin.

But this time I’m not the builder, am I? This time I’m a tool. A hammer in your grip. A nail between your fingers. A chisel in your hands. This project is yours, not mine.

I guess it’s foolish of me to question you.

Forgive my struggling. Trust doesn’t come easy to me, God. But you never said it would be easy, did you?

One final thing, Father. The angel you sent?

Any chance you could send another? If not an angel, maybe a person? I don’t know anyone around here and some company would be nice. Maybe the innkeeper or a traveler? Even a shepherd would do.

I wonder. Did Joseph ever pray such a prayer? Perhaps he did. Perhaps he didn’t.

But you probably have.

You’ve stood where Joseph stood. Caught between what God says and what makes sense. You’ve done what he told you to do only to wonder if it was him speaking in the first place. You’ve stared into a sky blackened with doubt. And you’ve asked what Joseph asked.

You’ve asked if you’re still on the right road. You’ve asked if you were supposed to turn left when you turned right. And you’ve asked if there is a plan behind this scheme. Things haven’t turned out like you thought they would.

Each of us knows what it’s like to search the night for light. Not outside a stable, but perhaps outside an emergency room. On the gravel of a roadside. On the manicured grass of a cemetery. We’ve asked our questions. We questioned God’s plan.

And we’ve wondered why God does what he does.

The Bethlehem sky is not the first to hear the pleadings of a confused pilgrim.

If you are asking what Joseph asked, let me urge you to do what Joseph did.

PAGE 27

Obey. That’s what he did. He obeyed. He obeyed when the angel called. He obeyed when Mary explained. He obeyed when God sent.

He was obedient to God. He was obedient when the sky was bright.

He was obedient when the sky was dark.

He didn’t let his confusion disrupt his obedience. He didn’t know everything. But he did what he knew. He shut down his business, packed up his family, and went to another country. Why? Because that’s what God said to do.

What about you? Just like Joseph, you can’t see the whole picture. Just like Joseph your task is to see that Jesus is brought into your part of your world. And just like Joseph you have a choice: to obey or disobey. Because Joseph obeyed, God used him to change the world. Can he do the same with you?

God still looks for Josephs today. Men and women who believe that God is not through with this world. Common people who serve an uncommon God. Will you be that kind of person? Will you serve … even when you don’t understand?

No, the Bethlehem sky is not the first to hear the pleadings of an honest heart, nor the last. And perhaps God didn’t answer every question for Joseph. But he answered the most important one. “Are you still with me, God?” And through the first cries of the God-child the answer came. “Yes. Yes, Joseph. I’m with you.”

There are many questions about the Bible that we won’t be able to answer until we get home. Many knotholes and snapshots. Many times, we will muse, “I wonder...”.

But in our wonderings, there is one question we never need to ask. Does God care? Do we matter to God? Does he still love his children?

Through the small face of the stable-born baby, he says yes.

Yes, your sins are forgiven.

Yes, your name is written in heaven.

Yes, death has been defeated.

And yes, God has entered your world.

Immanuel. God is with us.

This passage excerpted from: He Still Moves Stones. Max Lucado ©1999. Word Publishing: Nashville.

PAGE 28

THE GOOD NEWS

DECEMBER 2019

His Name is Jesus

By Max Lucado

The Christmas tree hunt is on! The preferences are different, but the desire is the same. We want the perfect Christmas tree! You search for the right one. You walk the rows. You examine them from all angles. This one is perfect!

God does the same. He has picked you. He knows just the place where you’ll

be placed. He has a barren living room in desperate need of warmth and joy. A corner of the world needs some color.

He selected you with that place in mind.

God made you on purpose with a purpose. He interwove calendar and character, circumstance and personality to create the right person for the right corner of the world, and then he paid the price to take you home. 1 Corinthians 6:20 says, “God bought you with a high price.” The Christmas promise is this: we have a Savior and his name is Jesus!

Taken from: Because of Bethlehem.

Upwords.com

DECEMBER 2019

PAGE 29

Valley Resource Center Named “2019 Top-Rated Non-Profit” by GreatNonprofits Award Based on Outstanding Online Reviews

Valley Resource Center announced today it has been named a “2019 Top-Rated Nonprofit” by GreatNonprofits, the leading provider of user reviews of charities and nonprofits.

Valley Resource Center provides military care packages and community support in SW Riverside County, CA, resulting in a stronger community and more support for our nation’s heroes.

“We are honored to be named a 2019 Top-Rated Nonprofit,” says Raven Hilden, Founder/CEO of the Valley Resource Center. We are proud of our accomplishments this year, and the support from our community through reviews and partnerships is a direct reflection of this.

The Top-Rated Nonprofit Award is the based on the rating and number of reviews that the Valley Resource Center received from volunteers, donors and aid recipients.

Christina M, a volunteer with the Valley Resource Center says, “The work we do is

amazing! We not only help out Military on deployment with care packages, we seek out seniors, veterans, and anyone in need.”

“The Valley Resource Center is a great example of a nonprofit making a real difference in their community,” said Perla Ni, CEO of GreatNonprofits, “Their award is well-deserved recognition not only of their work, but the tremendous support they receive, as shown by the many outstanding reviews they have received from people who have direct experience working with The Valley Resource Center.”

GreatNonprofits is the leading website where people share stories about their personal experiences on more than 1.6 million charities and nonprofits. The GreatNonprofits Top-Rated Awards are the only awards for nonprofits determined by those who have direct experience with the charities – as donors, volunteers and recipients of aid.

The complete list of 2019 Top Rated Nonprofits can be found at: https://greatnonprofits.org/awards/browse/Campaign:Year2019/Issue:All/Page:1

DECEMBER 2019

PAGE 30

DINING

Apple Rose Tart From Martha Stewart

Apple tarts deliver a more concentrated apple flavor than the more common double-crust pies, and you don't have to wait hours for them to cool.

Using different apple varieties pays off in both taste and beauty here. A peeled Granny Smith makes a tart center; unpeeled Pink Ladies give the outer petals a delicate blush. A mandolin makes quick work out of thinly (and evenly!) slicing the apples, and a little grated ginger mixed with apricot jam provides a spicy-sweet base that lets the fruit truly blossom.

Ingredients

2 teaspoons unbleached all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting

1 recipe Deep-Dish Pâte Brisée dough

3 tablespoons apricot jam

1/4 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

2 Pink Lady apples (12 ounces), halved, cored, and sliced a scant 1/8 inch thick (about 2 1/2 cups) 6 tablespoons sugar

2 teaspoons apple-cider vinegar 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1 Granny Smith apple (6 ounces), peeled, halved, cored, and sliced a scant 1/8 inch thick (about 1 cup)

Directions

Step 1 Preheat oven to 425°F with a rack in bottom position. On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough 1/8-inch-thick. Trim dough to a 12-inch round; fit into a 10-inch fluted tart pan with a removable bottom. Trim edges to 1 inch, then fold under to double thickness of edge. Stir together jam and ginger; spread over dough in pan. Refrigerate 20 minutes.

Step 2 Meanwhile, toss together Pink Lady apple slices, 3 tablespoons sugar, 1 1/2 teaspoons flour, 1 teaspoon vinegar, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Starting from outside, tightly shingle apples over dough in pan in concentric circles, covering two-thirds of dough.

Step 3 In another bowl, toss together Granny Smith apple slices and remaining 3 tablespoons sugar, 1/2 teaspoon flour, 1 teaspoon vinegar, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Shingle apples over dough in pan in center, leaving any excess juice and sugar in bowl. When you get to the very center, roll up a very thin apple slice or two to create center of "rose". Stir a few drops of water into bowl with residual fruit juices and sugar to create a glaze; set aside.

DECEMBER 2019

PAGE 31

DINING Step 4

Bake 15 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 375°F and continue baking until apples are tender and crust is golden brown, 40 to 45 minutes more, brushing with glaze from bowl once during cooking and once after removing from oven. Transfer pan to a wire rack; let cool 15 minutes. Remove sides of pan and transfer tart to rack; let cool at least 15 minutes more. Serve warm or room temperature. Tart can be stored, covered with parchment-lined foil, at room temperature up to 1 day.

Cook’s Notes

You can also toss both apple types together before shingling, rather than separating them.

Pâte Brisée Dough Ingredients

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon sugar

1 stick cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes

3 to 4 tablespoons ice water

Directions

Step 1 Pulse flour, salt, and sugar in a food processor until combined.

Add butter and pulse until mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-size pieces remaining. Drizzle with 3 tablespoons ice water and pulse until mixture holds together when pressed between fingertips. Add additional 1 tablespoon ice water, if needed; do not overprocess.

Step 2 Transfer mixture to a piece of plastic wrap. Knead once or twice. Form into a disk and wrap in plastic. Refrigerate at least 1 hour and up to overnight.

PAGE 32

OLD TOWN.TEMECULA

DECEMBER 2019

Elton John and Bruno Mars Tribute Shows to Perform on Temecula Stage

Tributes to Elton John and Bruno Mars perform at the Old Town Temecula Theater on Friday, February 28 and Sunday March 1, respectively. Tickets

are $25 - $35 and tickets may be discounted $5 for bundling two shows.

Senior, student and military discounts are available.

More than just a tribute show, Elton: The Early Years is a pitchperfect look at the life of a musical legend. Kenny Metcalf stars as Elton in this showcase, which has appeared on the AXS show The World’s Greatest Tribute Bands. This electric concert at the Old Town Temecula Community Theater features a technically accurate Vegas-style production with the wildly popular music, costumes and antics of one of music’s most flamboyant personThe Elton John photos show Kenny Metcalf; alities.

The Bruno Mars photos show Evan Saucedo.

Elton: The Early Years performs at the Old Town Temecula Theater on Friday, February 28 at 8:00 pm. Tickets are $25 - $35 and may be purchased online at www.temeculatheater.org, by calling 866 653-8696 or at the theatre box office. Old Town Temecula Community Theater is located at 42051 Main Street, in Old Town Temecula. The show is appropriate for all ages.

Nobody gets a party going like Bruno Mars. With infectiously funky hits like “That’s What I Like,” “Locked Out of Heaven” and the smash “Uptown Funk,” Mars has conquered record charts and dance floors around the world.

Now you can experience all the fun and stylish R&B swagger of the superstar live in concert when tribute band 24K Magic performs at Old Town Temecula Community Theater.

These consummate entertainers reproduce the complex sound and choreography of the original tunes with plenty of charm, style and spoton musicianship to spare.

24K Magic – Tribute to Bruno Mars performs at the Old Town Temecula Theater on Sunday, March 1 at 7:00 pm. Tickets are $25 - $35 and may be purchased online at www.temecula theater.org, by calling 866 653-8696 or at the theatre box office. Old Town Temecula Community Theater is located at 42051 Main Street, in Old Town Temecula.

The show is appropriate for all ages.

PAGE 34

OLD TOWN.TEMECULA

DECEMBER 2019

NOTE: REVISED DATE

Holiday Taste of Old Town Stroll through Old Town Temecula enjoying the festive season and menu samples from participating restaurants

The 10th annual Holiday Taste of Old Town will be on Tuesday, December 10, 2019, from 5pm-9pm. The evening will attract more than 200 people that will stroll through Old Town Temecula enjoying food samplings from a variety of Old Town restaurants. This event has become a holiday tradition for many couples and friends. Tickets are $25 per person and proceeds go to the Old Town Temecula Association. Tickets are available online at OldTownTemecula.org. The event sells out every year, so be sure to purchase tickets early. The event will be held rain or shine.

In addition to Holiday Taste of Old Town, shops will be open late for gift buying. Many of the merchants are offering holiday treats, as well as special sales for the evening. The evening provides a festive experience with holiday dĂŠcor, lights, and the spirit of the season.

DECEMBER 2019

OLD TOWN.TEMECULA

PAGE 35

Holiday Performances at the Old Town Temecula Theater A CHRISTMAS CAROL 2019

PERFORMANCES: NOV 29 & 30 2019 & DEC 3, 4, 5 & 7, 2019 @ 7:30pm NOV 30 & DEC 7 & 8, 2019 @ 2pm

Ebenezer Scrooge is a prosperous curmudgeon who believes that personal wealth is far more valuable than the happiness and comfort of others. He is forced to face his selfish ways when three ghosts on Christmas Eve lead him through his Past, Present, and Future.

Scrooge recognizes his faults and greets Christmas morning with a cheerful "Happy Christmas" sharing his love with those that mean the most to him.

TICKETS: $17 Groups 10 or more for all shows, all seats* $12 Thursdays all seats $22 Orchestra $17 Parterre/Balcony Fridays $27 Orchestra $22 Parterre/Balcony Saturdays & Sundays *Please call ticket office for group orders: 866-653-8696

For Tickets: www.temeculatheater.org

THE NUTCRACKER BALLET 2019

PERFORMANCES: December 13 & 20, 2019 at 7:30pm December 14 & 21, 2019 at 3pm & 7pm December 15 & 23, 2019 at 3pm December 22, 2019 at 1pm & 5pm

Having starred in the award-winning feature documentary film, The Making of The Nutcracker at the Temecula Valley International Film Festival, The Ballet Studio offers their renowned version of the mostperformed ballet in the world. This enchanting tale of a girl's first love, a

Rat King, a Nutcracker, and a Prince, is set to Tchaikovsky's classic score.

Experience the magic in Clara-Marie's journey of joy, fear, her first love and with that... excitement, trepidation and fantasy!

This is the Perfect Holiday Outing for the whole family! Join us for our 15th Season!

TICKETS: $39 Orchestra Front • $35 Orchestra $31 Parterre • $29 Balcony $3 Discount off pricing for Senior 65+, Military, and Groups of 10 or more*

DECEMBER 2019

PAGE 36

Simple Seasonal Styling

By Rita Wood, The Room Arranger

December is here and so begins the holiday season. It’s time to start thinking about what kinds of delicious food to make and time to start shopping for gifts . . . unless you’re one of “those” that are done shopping

by Thanksgiving. (Not me!) As we make a to-do list, let’s not forget to include decorating our home, because after all, it is where many of our memories are made. As for me, adding a festive feel to my home is one of my favorite parts of the entire season. But no worries, if it’s not your area of expertise, read on. This month I’m sharing a few home decorating and gift-wrapping ideas that will make it simple for you to get into the holiday spirit!

In my opinion, one of the most enjoyable aspects to holiday decorating is unpacking all my ornaments. It’s nice to see them again and it brings back good memories. I think about where I bought it (usually as a vacation souvenir) or who gave it or made it for me. Although I enjoy hanging them on my tree, I’ve discovered that I have accumulated more than will fit! Luckily, there are other ways to use ornaments aside from putting them on a tree. For example, you can hang them from a dining room chandelier (see photo) put them inside lanterns, a clear vase or decorative bowl and add twinkle lights. Corral them in a tray and add pine sprigs and/or candles.

A few years ago, I attached all my son’s child hood handmade ornaments onto an evergreen wreath. Instead of getting “lost” with all the other tree décor, they became a focal point and topic of fun conversation for the family, especially for my son! (Note: when you display “like” things together, you create more impact.)

• Purchase inexpensive miniature trees and spray paint them different colors. Put them on a mantle or use as tabletop décor. (Remember to display them together for maximum impact. ;) • Hang wreaths in front of mirrors.

• Bring out your fancy crystal bowls and glass vases. Fill them with pinecones, candy canes or Hersheys Kisses. Even something as simple and inexpensive as cranberries or red apples, when placed in a pretty container will add a festive touch.

• Use Christmas/Holiday cards as décor instead of stacking them on your kitchen counter. Contain them in a basket, or a special tray. Suspend ribbon across a window or door and attach cards with tiny clothespins. Use a hole punch, add ribbon, raffia or yarn and hang on your tree or a wreath.

• Holiday-ize a throw pillow. Use stick-on block letters on a premade pillow to spell out something festive.

You can peel them off at the end of the season and use the pillow year around. Or, wrap ribbon around a pillow and turn them into temporary “gifts”.

Thoughtful gifts make the holiday season special. You spend time finding just the right present, so why not wrap it with the same level of detail? Consider using something unique to wrap them in. Have you tried fabric? Check the remnant section at a fabric store for inexpensive yardage - just fold and secure with double stick tape. Add a colorful satin ribbon and a gift tag made from last year’s Christmas cards and voila . . . gift wrap that is different and good for the environment!

Any finally, let’s not forget our sense of smell. Nothing makes a home feel like Christmas more than the scent of a fresh cut tree. Many of us, me included, enjoy the ease of an artificial tree. To add an “authentic” smell, burn a pine scented candle to add that Christmas tree aroma. Swap out your every day soap too. The smell will transport you to a snowy forest each time you wash your hands.

I wish you all happy holidays and happy home decorating!

Murrieta resident Rita Wood, The Room Arranger has been a certified member of the Interior Redecorators Network since 1999.

Her specialty is helping clients transform their home using the furniture and accessories they already own. To learn more, visit her website www.theroomarranger.com or attend one of her decorating classes at Hobby Lobby.

Call 315–481–9659 for details.

DECEMBER 2019 Temecula Valley Newcomers Club Meeting Temecula Valley Newcomers Club Meeting and Luncheon Monday, December 16 at 11:00 a.m. Everyone is welcome. Enjoy good food, great company and make some new friends. If you have recently moved to the Temecula Valley or have lived here for many years and want to get out more, meet new people and have fun, Temecula Valley Newcomers Club (TVNC) is for you. Come see what it's all about at the TVNC monthly luncheon at Wilson Creek Winery, 35960 Rancho California Rd, Temecula. Paid reservations are required 10 days prior to luncheon. Please call Anne (951677-7149). This club is a social organization with many activities for members such as book clubs, card groups, mahjong, bunco, dominoes, golf, lunch and happy hour groups, theater trips and much more. For Club information call Isa (951-255-1818) Hope to see you at our next meeting!

PAGE 37 from any Choraleers member, or on Brown Paper Tickets. General admission tickets will be available at the CLPOA office.

Don’t miss it!

Meet the Author: Da Chen at the Ronald H. Roberts Temecula Public Don’t miss your chance to meet a New York Times Bestselling author! Join us for Meet the Author: Da Chen on Monday, December 16, 2019 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the Ronald H. Roberts Temecula Public Library (30600 Pauba Road). Come see Da Chen as he reads from his new young adult book Girl Under a Red Moon.

The book describes the deeply moving and intense account of his older sister, and their childhood growing up together during the tumultuous Chinese Cultural Revolution. At its heart, it is the story of a young girl's resolve in the midst of turmoil. Author signing will take place at the end of the program. Sponsored by the Friends of the Temecula Libraries, this program is for Grades 4-8 (adults welcome). No advance registration.

Space is limited. For any questions, please call (951) 693-8900 with questions.

Community Events and Activities

Holiday Fun at the Find Your VoiceCenter Create holiday gifts, including green screen video greetings & t-shirts. Find Your Voice radio workshop for kids/teens December 15th. Holiday open house December 22nd. Find us in Outlets at Lake Elsinore G165. Listen to kid & teen radio shows and other family-friendly music & entertainment + 48 hours of festive music on Christmas Eve & Day – 101.7 FM and JENNiRADIO.com. For registration & sponsorships, plus studios available for business & personal audio/video needs, creative center & more, visit FYVcenter.org. Contact info@FYVcenter.org or (951) 395-1017 with questions.

Canyon Lake Choraleers Holiday Concert Canyon Lake Choraleers will perform “The Colors Of Christmas” on December 15, 2019 at 3pm in the Canyon Lake Lodge. The ensemble, under the direction of Lorilee Bajema, will be accompanied by pianist Lynda Salina, as well as orchestral and band members. A newly formed Children’s Choir will also perform.

Tickets will be available for sale at $25 for premium reserved, $20 for reserved, and $15 for general admission, Tickets go on sale November 1 and can be purchased

Food Waste & Wasted Food: Organic Waste Reduction Join us for Food Waste & Wasted Food: Organic Waste Reduction at the Ronald H. Roberts Temecula Public Library (30600 Pauba Road) on Thursday, January 23, 2020, from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm. Over one third of what goes to the landfill is organic waste, and nearly half of that is food. Can some of it be rescued? Yes! Join James Rowland of Riverside County Department of Waste Resources as he teaches the difference between food waste, and wasted food. James will discuss programs and strategies that will not only help reduce and divert this waste stream, but will also help the environment, as well as local families who are food insecure. Come and learn how you can be part of the solution.

Sponsored by the Friends of the Temecula Libraries, this program is open to adults 18 years and older. Carpooling is encouraged. For additional information, please call (951) 693-8900.

DECEMBER 2019

PAGE 38

Coffee Moments Recognizing Good People

Left to right Volunteers: Bruce Brunn, Payman Sedighian, Greg Eastwood, Temecula PD Volunteers, and Temecula PD Posse Volunteers and Rich Cattivera

Philanthropy —when one hears the word Philanthropy most people often think it refers to the large amounts of money the wealthy donate to causes such as world hunger or organizations like museums or animal shelters, but Philanthropy also refers to the desire to help people, the actual deeds a person does to benefit mankind.

This month let me share with you a story about philanthropist Temecula Police Department Volunteers who are residents of Temecula. There are approximately 30 volunteers in the Temecula Police Department. The following comments are from 7 of them. Also comments about the Volunteers by Lieutenant Bruce W. Smith from the Riverside Sheriff’s Department Southwest Station Temecula Police Department.

Q How did you arrive at your philanthropic priorities?

Darren Jump: I have served the public for my entire adult life. In 2002, I retired as a Lieutenant Colonel after twenty years on active duty in the United Sates Marne Corps. At that time, I served as the Staff Judge.

Bruce Brunn: After being retired for over a year I had done most of the chores I had planned for retirement, and I missed my previous work in intelligence.

Greg Eastwood: I have always been committed to serving, from my 7 years in the Marine Corps, to volunteering my time coaching sports and giving back to my community.

Paymann Sedighian: I believe that helping others is at the forefront of one’s life.

Rich Cattivera: To help make a difference for others in the community and at the same time give me a sense of purpose knowing that I will be doing something that matters.

Ed Rushing: I choose the Temecula Police Department because I live in the area.

Jill Martin: I went with my heart and family history.

How did you decide on the Temecula Police Department?

Darren Jump: I attended a community meeting with the Temecula Police Department Community Action Patrol volunteers, and I immediately became interested in the program. I was also once certified to teach in any school district in Ohio (grades 7-12). So, as an educator and one familiar with criminal justice issues, I saw service with the Community Action Patrol as opportunity to continue serving the public based on my strengths.

Bruce Brunn: While volunteering appealed to me, I also wanted to use my specific skill sets. Most people can work in a soup kitchen, but only a few

have the skill sets to work in potentially dangerous situations. When Deputy Chief Aveling picked me to do the Terrorism Liaison work in 2014, it was a good fit for my skill sets and the needs of the Sheriff. I joined the TCC CERT program and the Blue and Gold officers for the same reason

Greg Eastwood: My son is a Deputy Sheriff for RSO and it gave me the opportunity to spend time and work with him at the Temecula station.

Paymann Sedighian: I chose to volunteer because most people would not want to get involved with the Sheriff’s Department. It’s the hardest and most challenging thing one can do.

Rich Cattivera: While serving on Jury Duty, I saw information on volunteering with the Temecula Police Department and thought that this would be a challenging and rewarding volunteer program.

Ed Rushing: I have a degree in criminal justice. I wanted to be a Police Officer as a profession. Unfortunately, it didn’t work out. So, 10 years ago I choose to become a Sheriff Department volunteer to get a chance to use those skills learned and give back to the community. It has been very rewarding.

Jill Martin: I was a volunteer with the Sheriff’s Department in San Clemente for 13 years. I wanted to pay back the City for all the kindnesses they showed my mom. prior to her passing. She loved to call 9-1-1 and the Sheriff or Fire responders would always have a smile and were so polite and respectful every time they came to the house.

Q How long have you been volunteering, what do you specifically do and how many hours do you volunteer?

Darren Jump: Approximately 25 hours per month. I work full time, so most of my service is on weekends, holidays, and days off from work. I typically support special events, logistics, and emergency callouts.

Bruce Brunn: Unlike a regular job, I can pick the time and place where I volunteer. If my family does not have anything planned, I often work up to 80 hours a month. If there are family plans, I cut those hours down as needed.

Greg Eastwood: I have been volunteering for 9 years and average around 70 hours a month.

Payman Sedighian: I have been volunteering for 5 years for Temecula Police Department, 3 years for California Highway Patrol and average 60 hours a month.

Ed Rushing: I volunteer approximately 20 hours a month.

Jill Martin: I’m still training so I don’t have a set schedule yet. I’ll be assisting the Volunteer Coordinator two days a week with maybe 4 hours a day. During my time in San Clemente, I volunteered 4,000 hours/year.

DECEMBER 2019

Q Have there been moments or experiences that have affected you emotionally where you said, “This is too much to handle”?

Darren Jump: While balancing work and volunteer service remains a challenge, it is not too much to handle. This is because I am blessed with an understanding family, collaborative and dedicated professionals, within the Temecula Volunteer office and I serve in trust with the approval of the Counsel for the Commandant of the Marine Corps.

Bruce Brunn: Yes; if you find a good fit with an organization, they often want more hours than your family wants you to do. This year I had to cut back on the Blue and Gold work due to the increase in the Sheriff workload. I also limit my TCC CERT activities to those linked to my RSO Crime Prevention, TLO, and Neighborhood Watch duties.

Greg Eastwood: No, being a combat veteran in Vietnam, I’ve seen a lot.

Also, my faith keeps me strong emotionally.

Payman Sedighian: Not at all!

Rich Cattivera: No, I am enjoying every aspect the program has to offer. It is rewarding knowing others can count on us.

Ed Rushing: No, I have always been able to process the situation and compartmentalize it. I enjoy being able to help people.

Jill Martin: No, the nice part of volunteering is that you are a VOLUNTEER. You should be able to slow down or pick up the amount of work you can handle so you do a good job while still enjoying it.

Q What advise would you give someone who is thinking of volunteering and they are not sure where to start or what to do?

Darren Jump: Talk to you family and if you’re employed, talk with your supervisor. Then if they are accepting of your intent to serve, talk with a volunteer coordinator to identify any service requirements, like background checks and mandatory training.

Bruce Brunn: If you like to “give back. Think about the specific skills that you have developed over your lifetime and match it with a charitable organization.

Greg Eastwood: I would tell them to give it try, there are many aspects of what we do as a volunteer and you can carve your niche based on what you believe best serve the organization and the community.

Payman Sedighian: Service to Humanity is Service to God.

Rich Cattivera: Find an Organization that perhaps has impacted your life directly or indirectly where you would like to donate your time and maybe make a difference.

Ed Rushing: It takes a certain individual to do this type of volunteer work. If interested contact your local police or Sheriff’s Department.

Jill Martin: If you have friends that volunteer, pick their brain. Do something you like. Or, try something new. As long as you enjoy doing whatever it is.

Remember you are not getting paid – so you need to be somewhere that you enjoy! Do it! It is so rewarding I LOVE WHAT I DO!

Q How long have you been volunteering, what do you specifically do and how many hours do you volunteer?

Darren Jump: Approximately 25 hours per month. I work full time, so most of my service is on weekends, holidays, and days off from work. I typically support special events, logistics, and emergency callouts.

Bruce Brunn: Unlike a regular job, I can pick the time and place where I volunteer. If my family does not have anything planned, I often work up to 80 hours a month. If there are family plans, I cut those hours down as needed.

Greg Eastwood: I have been volunteering for 9 years and average around 70 hours a month.

Payman Sedighian: I have been volunteering for 5 years for Temecula Police Department, 3 years for California Highway Patrol and average 60 hours a month.

PAGE 39 Ed Rushing: I volunteer approximately 20 hours a month.

Jill Martin: I’m still training so I don’t have a set schedule yet. I’ll be assisting the Volunteer Coordinator two days a week with maybe 4 hours a day. During my time in San Clemente, I volunteered 4,000 hours/year.

Comments about the volunteers from Lieutenant Bruce W. Smith from the Riverside Sheriff’s Department Southwest Station Temecula Police Department

• I’m in awe and a better person being around them. They are so willing to commit their service.

• I think of the volunteers as family. They are all in the same group as the deputies.

• This city is better off with having them in the community.

• The volunteers bring work and life experience that benefits the department.

• They are the most robust and personally group of people I have met.

I feel privileged to be associated with them. They make life better for the people in the community.

• The service the volunteers provide is a massive cost savings to the department. I can’t put a dollar amount on it, but we could not afford to pay them for all the experience and service they provide.

• I am very proud and love them!”

If you are interested in volunteering for the Temecula Police Department, Contact: Tony Merlo at tmerlo@riversidesheriff.org or (951) 696-3483.

If you know of someone who should be recognized contact me at coffee4compassion@gmail.com or at (951) 541-3569.

PAGE 40

DECEMBER 2019

Holiday Events

Holiday Events, Santa Sightings, Bazaars, & Holiday Entertainment Holiday Events in Temecula

City of Temecula Hosts 22nd Annual Christmas Tree Lighting at the Duck Pond on Monday, December 2, 2019 at 7:00 pm

Get into the Christmas spirit with a sparkling evening of holiday magic. Enjoy a cup of hot chocolate, tell Santa what you want for Christmas, and sing along with a celebratory performance by Resonate! Vocal Group as we count down the tree lighting. Bring the entire family, all your neighbors, and friends to join the City of Temecula Community Services Department for this cheerful, annual tradition.

For more information, please contact the Community Services Department at (951) 694-6480.

New Year’s Celebration

Temecula Hosts Annual New Year’s Eve Grape Drop on Tuesday, December 31, 2019 Friends and family of all ages are invited to Temecula’s annual New Year’s Eve Grape Drop on Tuesday, December 31, 2019, beginning at 6:00 pm at Town Square (41000 Main Street). Temecula’s customcrafted, illuminated cluster of grapes will descend 65-feet from the third-story patio of the beautiful Civic Center clock tower. Temecula’s signature celebration

invites New Year’s Eve revelers to dance to live music, step into the Fun Zone, enjoy activities, and welcome the New Year with two countdowns: East Coast (9:00 pm) and West Coast (12:00 am), both led by City officials. Fun Zone activities include hat making, face painting, carnival games, and a giant slide. Bring your family, your friends, lawn chairs, and warm blankets to enjoy celebrating together at this free event.

Stellar, family-friendly entertainment will perform on the steps of Temecula’s City Hall: 6:00 pm Jillian Calkins 7:00 pm Jill & Leo Trio 8:30 pm Chris Fast Blues Blast 10:30pm Mrs. Jones Revenge

For more information, please contact the Community Services Department at (951) 694-6480.

Holiday Market At Europa Village in Wine Country Through Sunday, December 8th Daily 10 AM - 5 PM

Our holiday wonderland will be open daily from 10am - 5pm. We will have extended hours on November 29th until 7pm. Discover seasonal gifts and decorations showcasing European fine craftsmanship, nutcrackers, ornaments, decor, imported kitchen items, and wine-inspired gifts for everyone on your list. Experience the magic of the season and celebrate a holiday tradition with us!

Photo: Shawna Sarnowski Photography

Open Daily 10am-5pm Daily giveaways from 10am - 1pm Cassiano Designs Jewelry December 7

Holiday Events at Vail HQ, Temecula Parkway Sunday Funday - December 1

Sunday Funday & Vendor Market presented by Synergy Social Socal will take place from 11am to 4pm: This is the busiest Holiday shopping weekend! Come support small local businesses here in Temecula! We will have Live music playing to put you in the spirit! Elsa from Arendale will be visiting as well!!! The fun celebrations are here with us at Vail Headquarters!

Always free attendance for all of your friends and family members including the four-legged ones! Sunday Funday Activities always include, Fun Train rides, Picnic Games, awesome local eateries, arts, exclusive Vendors and more!

Temecula Chilled Family Faire • Saturday December 14, 4pm to 8pm

Clear Charity and Vail HQ invite you to our Winter Wonderland This is a Fun Family Event featuring: FREE Snow Play area, Arts & Crafts, Holiday Movie screenings, Bubble Dance Party , Backyard style Games. Food & Drinks by The Daisy, Cheflavor, Cookhouse Food Hall at Vail HQ, Vail Pizzeria, Augie’s Coffee + MORE. Shop Local & Unique Vendors. Train Rides by Vail Historical Society *separate fee for Train Rides

Sunday Funday - December 15, 11am to 4pm

Always free attendance for all of your friends and family members including the four legged ones!

Sunday Funday Activities always include, Fun Train rides, Picnic Games, awesome local eateries, arts, exclusive Vendors and more!

Ramble On Holiday Car Show: Saturday December 21, 3pm to 8pm

Us Versus Them and Vail Headquarters present: Ramble On at the Ranch A classic car show featuring pre-1980 customs, low riders, hot rods and bikes.

Family friendly show with: 100+ classic cars and bikes • Live music • Food & brews • Vendor booths.

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Holiday Events in Murrieta

Hometown Holiday Children’s Parade – Dec. 7 at 5pm

The parade will begin at Washington/B St and end at Town Square. The event is FREE. This is a non-motorized parade. Participants are encouraged to walk, ride a bike, push a stroller or push/pull a float. Electirc Golf Carts are also allowed. All entries must be in same way! For more information: 951-304-7275 or register your team/group/ family at https://tinycurl.com/murrietaholidayparade

Festival of Trees - Dec 7, 5-7pm

Come to Town Square Park for an evening of fun: Photos with Santa, Carrige Rides, Tree Lighting and Music. Join Santa and his friends as they magically light the City tree at the Tree Lighting Ceremony. For more information call 951-304-7375 or visit www.murrietaca.gov/events

Holiday Events in Menifee

Menifee Christmas Tree Lighting and Holiday Bazaar

Saturday, Dec 7 from 4-8pm at Mt. San Jacinto College, 28737 la Peidra Road.

Join us for an evening of holiday magic and family fun. Take photos with Santa, help countdown the lighting of the tree, play in the fun zone snow and enjoy shopping at more than 20 craft and business vendors.

Breakfast With Santa, Saturday, Dec 14

Crafts, Breakfast, Live Music, Photo with Santa. Bring your camera. $7 pp. The event is held at Kay Ceniceros Senior Center, 29995 Evans Rd., Menifee. Purchase tickets in advance at www.cityofmenifee.us or call 951-723-3880. No tickets will be sold at the door.

Santa on Wheels – Dec 16-20

See advertisement this secton for details.

Kids Holiday Workshop – Dec 20 from 1-4pm

For ages 6-12. Children can make and take home various crafts, ornamnets and gifts and play fun holiday-themed games. Fee is $10. Lazy /creek Recreation Center.

Holiday Events in Wildomar Breakfast with Santa Dec. 14 from 8-11am

Location - Fire Station 61 - 32627 Gruwell Street For more information contact Janet Morales at jmorales@cityofwildomar.org or 951-677-7751 x210

Holiday Events in Lake Elsinore Winterfest – Dec 7 from 3-7pm

Downtown Main Street will be packed with people in the holiday spirit for the 5th annual Old Fashioned Christmas Parade at 3pm traveling from the corner of Library & Main to Heald & Main.

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Cookies and Cocoa with Santa – Saturday, Dec. 14 6:30 – 8:30 pm Come to Fire Station 97 at 41725 Rosetta Canyon Drive and bring your camera to take a photo with Santa, sip cocoa, decorate cookies and enjoy making a fun holiday craft. Tickets are $5 pp. Tickets are not available at the fire station. For tickets: 951-245-0442 for event registration information.

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Holiday Events in Hemet

CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING- Friday Dec 6.

5:30 pm – 7:30 pm, Valley-Wide Regional Park, 901 W Esplanade Ave, Hemet Free. Join in the 13th Annual Tree Lighting to kick off the Holiday Season. Experience a movie under the stars. Enjoy music and complimentary refreshments as we count down to the tree lighting. And don’t forget to bring a camera for your picture with Santa! Tree lighting at 6:00 pm. (951) 487-9234.

KIDS ART JAM – Saturday Dec 7

10:00 am – 11:30 am, Hemet Valley Art Gallery, 144 N Harvard St, Hemet $5 per student. Kids from age 6 to 12 will learn a variety of art techniques and occasionally, a craft project. All materials are provided. Call for more information (951) 927-2556.

HOLIDAY GINGERBREAD HOUSE NIGHT- Tuesday, Dec 10

6:00 pm – 8:00 pm, Valle Vista Community Center, 43935 E Acacia Ave $3 per person. Advance registration required. Tis’ the season for making Gingerbread Houses! Bring the whole family for a fun filled evening. We will be serving hot cocoa and cookies and we may even have a special visit from Santa. (Limited to the first 200 children) Advanced registration is required. (951) 927-6673.

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA -Satuday, Dec 14

8:00 am – 11:00 am, Valley-Wide Sports Center, 901 W Esplanade Ave, Hemet $3 per person. Come see Santa and have breakfast. At this 11th annual event, there will be lots of activities such as children’s games, vendors, music, opportunity drawings, arts and crafts, and much more. And don’t forget to bring a camera for your picture with Santa! Food will be served 8:00 to 10:30 a.m. Tickets are limited. (951) 487-9234.

VALLEY VOCAL ENSEMBLE ~ CELEBRATE THE SEASON

3:00 pm, St John’s Lutheran Church, 26410 Columbia St, Hemet $10 general admission. The Valley Vocal Ensemble celebrates the holiday season with two performances of their Christmas Concert, featuring “Sing We Now of Christmas,” a compilation of over 20 familiar carols originally recorded by the Harry Simeone Chorale. Second performance is at DVAC on Sunday December 15th. (951) 660-5798.

VALLEY VOCAL ENSEMBLE ~ CELEBRATE THE SEASON

Sunday Dec 15, 3:00 pm, Diamond Valley Arts Center, 123 N Harvard St, Hemet

$10 general admission. The Valley Vocal Ensemble celebrates the holiday season with two performances of their Christmas Concert, featuring “Sing We Now of Christmas,” a compilation of over 20 familiar carols originally recorded by the Harry Simeone Chorale. First performance is at St John’s Lutheran on Saturday December 14th. (951) 660-5798.

STONE SOUL CHRISTMAS – Satuday Dec 21

7:00 pm, Historic Hemet Theatre, 216 E Florida Ave, Hemet $22 presale, $25 day of show. A very special Christmas concert featuring the best of Motown and Soul, performed by the amazing STONE SOUL. Appearing at HHT for the first time, come celebrate the holidays with us! (951) 658-5950.

Holiday Events Valley-Wide

From making gingerbread houses to Breakfast with Santa, Valley-Wide Recreation and Park District has a number of holiday-themed events planned in December.

Gingerbread House Building

There will be gingerbread house building events at three Valley-Wide facilities – 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 4 at the French Valley Community Center; 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 10 at the Valle Vista Community Center; and 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12, at the Marion V. Ashley Center in Menifee.

Christmas Tree Lighting

The annual free Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony at Regional Park in San Jacinto will be from 5:30-7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6. Cocoa and cookies will be served. There also will be a film and visits with Santa.

Breakfast with Santa

Breakfast with Santa will be from 8-10:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 14 in the Sport Center at Regional Park. The event includes a pancake breakfast.

The Great Grinch Candy Cane Hunt

6:00 pm – 7:30 pm, Winchester Park, 32665 Haddock St, Winchester Free. The Second Annual Great Grinch Candy Cane Hunt. Santa’s elves have hidden red candy canes in Winchester Park, but The Grinch is turning them green. Find the green candy canes to win a prize! (951) 926-5917.

There is a minimal charge for all activities except the tree lighting. Space is limited and many of the events sell out in advance. For cost, reservations and other details, visit a facility, call 951-654-1505 or go to gorecreation.org.