Neighbors Newspaper 2021 December

THE PAPER THAT BRINGS COMMUNITIES TOGETHER

Supporting Independent Businesses in Southwest Riverside County Since 1998

DECEMBER 2021 - FREE

Merry Christmas to All and to All a Good Night Holiday Events Breakfast with Santa Holiday Performances Temecula On Ice Opens Parenting: Prioritize Joy in Childhood God’s Greatest Surprise Hemet Theatre Celebrates 100 Years New Outdoor Markets in Menifee Holiday Recipes Table of Contents Page 4 "...But the angel said to them, Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of 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

T H A N K YO U F R I E N D S

DECEMBER 2021

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“Getting Those Angel Tree Christmas Gifts Is Important” “Giving a child hope for the future is to know they are not alone or forgotten this Christmas?” Will you help meet this big need in the lives of children of incarcerated parents

at the Elks Lodge #2591, 33700 Mission Trail, Wildomar, CA. 92595. We welcome sponsors to drop off unwrapped pajamas, hoodies, or toy gifts at Shear Expressions Hair

ages 0-18 in our community? Your Salon, 40557 California Oaks Road gifts and donations will lift these chilSuite H2 next door to Jersey’s Pizza dren’s spirit with joy and elevate their in Murrieta. Or, we have made it easexpectations for a brighter New Year. ier for those who don’t have time to Last year, Elijah then 14 said, “I was shop to text DONATE CHAMPIONS little when I became a recipient of to 609-212-0627, or, online Angel Tree gifts on behalf of my inh t t p s : / / b u y . c h i p carcerated mother. I have not seen in.us/?nonprofitId=105451 or, by QR Elijah O’Leary, Hemet, CA. or heard from my mom since I was Code. Checks can also be sent via US 3 so” “getting those gifts was important.” Elijah will be mail to Community Outreach Ministry, 23905 Clinton wrapping gifts, and volunteering at the 21st Annual Keith Road, Suite 114 #116, Wildomar, CA. 92595. We Angel Tree Christmas Party. He knows what it is like not would also be happy to pick up a check at your location. having his mom, and he is giving back because he cares For details email info@communityoutreachministry.org or and wants to make a difference in the lives of children call our office 951-698-7650 or mobile 951-231-5515. We just like him. welcome you to visit us at https://www.communityThe 21st Annual Angel Tree Christmas Party is on outreachministry.org. Upon request IRS Tax receipts will Sunday, December 12, 2021, from 12:30 pm – 3:00 pm be provided for monetary donations.

DECEMBER 2021

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THANK YOU DECEMBER 2021

Support Our Local Businesses A Christmas Carol .....................................20 Animal Friends of the Valley......................26 Barnyard, The............................................17 California Technical Academy ...................15 Christmas Light Installation .......................3 Cleaning and Moving ................................12 Falkner Winery Wedding Special...............27 Gardener's Cottage Boutique ....................19 Grace Evangelical Free ..............................23 Historic Hemet Theater .............................21 Honeycutt Farms.......................................10 Hospice of the Valleys- Silent Auctin.........12 JDS Creative Academy - Grease................28

10

Christmas Tree Cupcakes

16

Temecula On Ice

COMMUNITY

KIDS

18

Nutcracker

Farewell from the Publisher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Drug Awareness Winner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Jeweler by Design ......................................7

Horsewomen of Temecula Valley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Professor Kidsbrary – Miracle Muffins . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

Jewel Scene ...............................................2

Outdoor Markets in Menifee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Jospeh Carroll Photography.......................3

Hospice of the Valleys Award . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

PETS

Killarneys Irish Pub ...................................11

A Decade of Destiny- The Ambassador Hotel . . . . . . . . .24

Pet Adoptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

LA Pets Live ..............................................26

Community Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30

LE Outlets Holly Jolly Jamboree................32

ENTERTAINMENT

LE Outlets Craft Fair/Farmers Market ........12 Lake Elsinore Women's Club ....................30 Lienzo Charro Mexican Restaurant............10

RECIPES Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

OnStage in December at Temecula Theater . . . . . . . . . .18

Christmas Tree Cupcakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Historic Hemet Theater Celebrates 100 Years . . . . . . . .21

Easy Apple Slab Pie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

JDS Winter Showcase Presents Grease

. . . . . . .28

VISITING OUR VINEYARDS

Mc Coy Rock.............................................31 Menifee Bible Church ................................23

EVENTS

Mom & Baby Boutique..............................24

Holiday Events in the Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Mom's in Prayer .......................................30

Temecula On Ice Opens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

Ms Chevious .............................................20 My Grannys' Attic......................................16 Naughty Pig Gourmet Meats .....................11 Nutcracker, The at Bolero Winery..............27

Events in Wine Country . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

New Year’s Grape Drop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

God’s Greatest Surprise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Unto Us a Child is Born . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

Olivepipity Olive Oil Company ...................20

FAMILY

Painted Garden .........................................18

Parenting: Prioritize Joy in Childhood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Platinum Plumbing....................................13

ReMax Vanquard Real Estate ....................30 Remax- Shawn Gerritson ..........................13 Serendipity Boutique.................................18 Swim to Shore ..........................................28 Temecula Eye Center .................................15 Temecula Lavender Company ...................20 Temecula Newcomers Club ......................30 Temecula Valley Symphony Hall Concert .14 Valley Quilters Annual Quilt Show ............14 Wickerd Farm.............................................8 Word Search .............................................24 Word Search Answer Key..........................30

ABOUT US | CONTACT US

Publisher Diane Simones

Contact Us Info@NeighborsNewspaper.com 951-244-7025

Director of Business Development Gino Simones

Mailing 31566 Railroad Canyon Road, Suite 2-575 Canyon Lake, CA 92587

Contributing Editors Susan Montgomery Tracy Williams Pastor John Stewart Tristan Haller Chef Daniel Johnson

Holiday Events .........

Pages 8 - 9

FAITH

Old TownSpice & Tea Merchants...............16

Premier Carpet ...........................................3

FEATURE

Carol Malin Nellie Hathorn Taylor Pentz Laurie Julian Heidi Simmons

Art Director Dorina Blythe, GranDesigns, Inc.

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.

DECEMBER 2021

H

PAGE 5

A Farewell from the Publisher ow do I say Good-bye to you,

the needs, the fundraisers and the successes and

our readers after 20 years? That

YOU, our readers, responded. You volunteered.

has weighed heavily on my mind

YOU made contributions.

YOU opened your

for some time. I guess it would be appropriate to

hearts and YOU made a difference every day.

mention how this all started.

YOU continue to. It is heartening to hear about the

It was in the fall of 2002; I was a sales man-

generosity that is poured out from YOU, our read-

ager at the North County Times in Fallbrook when

ers.

I hired a new person named Carol Martin. Many

It has been an honor to be a part of many

of you may have known her. At the time, it was

wonderful things that have happened over these

my goal to find a way into the nursery business

20 years. It has truly been a journey; one that I

but Carol changed the course of the future for my

would have never dreamed would happen when it

husband and I, when she told me that there was

began in 2003. My husband, Gino has been here

a community publication in Temecula for sale. As

all along and when we purchased the Temecula

soon as my husband heard that, he began re-

Map Guide in 2009, he officially joined the com-

searching the business and decided that it would

pany and has led that company to growth and suc-

be ‘perfect’ for me.

cess. He will continue with the Map Guide into

On January 11, 2003, we signed a purchase

2022 and beyond.

agreement with Annette and Carl Brown to be-

The supporters of this publication have

come the new owners of Neighbors Newspaper!

been the loyal advertisers who have made this

Both of us really believed that this would be a

all possible, Thank-you to the local, independent

‘nice little part-time’ business for me. With no pub-

businesses that have been there even through

lishing experience, no layout experience and no

economic downturns and the pandemic. So many

distribution experience, we were off. Fortunately,

of the business owners have become our friends.

Carl Brown was there to give us guidance and

I can’t say good-bye just yet without thanking

those first few months were terrifying.

the faithful workers behind the scenes at Neigh-

We had no idea how our lives would change over the next 20 years. We

bors. A BIG Thank-you to our distribution team, The Temecula Valley Elks Club.

did not know that serving the communities in Southwest Riverside County would

Every month through rain, snow and heat they faithfully delivered the papers to

be so exciting or fulfilling as we witnessed the monumental growth: the Prom-

over 700 locations. Well, maybe not snow? They are the reason that people say,

enade Mall arrived, Wine Country became an acclaimed wine region, develop-

“I see that paper everywhere”.

ers recognized opportunity, cities doubled and tripled in population and

Another BIG Thank-you to Dorina Blythe, Grandesigns for creating such a

companies moved into the area creating new local jobs. The Temecula Valley

beautiful publication month after month. We receive compliments from readers

became the fasted growing area in California!

frequently who appreciate the clear, concise and attractive presentation.

The former publisher of Neighbors, Annette Brown had a vision for this pub-

Thank-you to the many columnists that have informed, educated and enter-

lication. She believed that Neighbors could support local independent busi-

tained our readers in countless issues. An especially BIG Thank-you to Traci

nesses and local charitable organizations thereby helping communities and

Williams, a Loving Way for her inciteful columns on parenting. I am confident

families prosper. We agreed and worked to emulate her heart for the area

that her counsel has helped many families reconnect and thrive. Traci has been

through the years.

writing for Neighbors since we purchased it! I guess you can say, she was part

As a result of that vision, we have personally witnessed the creation of many non-profits and charitable organizations that have helped people and changed lives in every city in our little corner of Riverside County.

Michelle’s Place has supported women’s health by coming along side so many afflicted with breast-cancer. Today, Michelle’s Place provides over 10,000 free services a year to individuals and families impacted by all types of cancers.

Oak Grove Center, a nonprofit 24-hour residential and educational treatment center serving at-risk children and families has grown and expanded, as well.

The Chef Open, as a part of the annual Golf Tournament fundraiser, brought in about 50 participants the first year. 19 years later, the Chef Open in 2021, served over 800 attendees! They also run a Culinary Arts program for the children in conjunction with the Culinary Connection in Old Town Temecula. By the way, the baked goods are delicious thanks to Chef Robin McCoy. I could go on and on with a list of the non-profits that have grown and served so many.

Communities continue to come together to help each other in ways that continually amaze us.

But the heroes in this story are the Neighbors’ readers. We published

of the package. For that we are grateful.

And, Thank-you to the Word Search Editor, David Randolph. When David was 12 years old, he came to me and said, “There should be something for the kids in the paper.” I told him to make a suggestion and he created - Word Search: For Kids from a Kid. That was in 2008. Today, David is graduated from college, working in Los Angeles in the film industry and through all of that he has never missed an issue!

The blessings have been many and we know that this publication has been sustained through the love and care of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. He has been there every step of the way guiding, directing and keeping us on course, especially during the past 2 years. He is our provider and our strength! Thankyou Lord.

OK, the time has come! So, with tears in my eyes, I say Good-Bye, Farewell as we complete this last issue! It is time for me to get back to my gardening! 😊 “If you’re brave enough to say goodbye, life will reward you with a new hello. ~Paulo Coelho

We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Gino and Diane Simones

DECEMBER 2021

PAGE 6

Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks INGREDIENTS • 12 oz Frozen chopped spinach thawed and squeezed dry • 6 oz cream cheese softened • 2 cloves garlic, minced • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder • 1/4 teaspoon pepper • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese • 1 cup grated cheddar OR mozzarella cheese • 1 tube refrigerated thin crust pizza crust • 2 tablespoons butter • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning • 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt INSTRUCTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

2. In a bowl, beat together the spinach and cream cheese.

3. Add garlic, salt, onion powder, chili powder, pepper, and Italian seasoning and beat to combine.

4. Add parmesan cheese and 1/2 of the cheddar or mozzarella cheese and beat to combine. (The other half of the cheddar or mozzarella cheese will be sprinkled over the filling when you shape the Christmas tree.)

5. Shape into Christmas tree. See image below.

• This gives you one large triangle and two smaller ones. Transfer the smaller triangles to a second piece of parchment paper, placing the long side edges together, to make another large triangle. The dough will stretch out a little as you move it around – no biggie, just gently tug it into the shape you want, pressing the two halves together in the middle. This will be the base of the breadsticks. I also gave the base a short little trunk.

• Spread the spinach dip over the base. Sprinkle on the remaining cheese, and then top with the first triangle of dough.

You’ll likely have to tug at the dough a little bit to make sure it completely covers the base triangle.

• Using a pizza cutter, cut slices from the middle to each edge about every inch down the triangle as shown below. Don’t slice all the way across; leave about an inch down the middle of the tree intact.

6. Bake for about 22 minutes until quite golden brown on top and cooked through on the bottom.

7. Melt butter and stir in garlic salt and seasoning, then brush over breadsticks.

8. Serve warm.

Recipe compliments of www.itsalwaysautumn.com

DECEMBER 2021

PAGE 7

Horse Women of Temecula Wine Country in the Rose Parade in 2022

By Lauri Julian

The 2022 Rose Parade entry will be led by a wagon filled with Civic-minded Temecula Community Leaders, followed by four officers of the Riverside County Sheriff Mounted Enforcement Detail (MED), including Sheriff Chad Bianco, and the Temecula Cowgirl Color Guard Parade and Drill Team. Our twenty three individual team members are each showcased in the “Meet the Team” album at https://www.facebook.com/media/set/? set=a.510811740300339&type=3

The theme of the 2022 Rose Parade is DREAM*BELIEVE *ACHIEVE and EDUCATION. Each statement in the album was crafted with the parade’s theme in mind. We have some AMAZING people involved. So watch us on January 1, 2022.

DECEMBER 2021

PAGE 8

Holiday Events

and

Santa Sightings

Menifee for the Holidays!

Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony The City of Menifee is kicking off the winter season with the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. The festivities will take place on Saturday, December 4 at Mt. San Jacinto College located at 28237 La Piedra Rd., from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. The event will include games, crafts for kids, a lighted wonderland with numerous photo opportunities, and snow for sliding! Entertainment for the evening will be provided by local community groups along with a special appearance from the big man himself, Santa! This event is FREE to the public and open for all ages.

Donate canned goods or unwrapped gift!

This year, the City is teaming up with the Menifee Valley Community Cupboard and Menifee Police Department to collect food and gift donations for Menifee families in need. For admission to the snow area, please bring either canned good items to be donated to the Menifee Valley Community Cupboard and/or an unwrapped gift to be donated to Santa’s Workshop. The first 500 guests will receive a free ornament.

Breakfast with Santa Save the date - Saturday, December 11, for the annual Breakfast with Santa event! Santa will be stopping by for a special appearance for Menifee residents to take photos and enjoy fun activities The event will be hosted at the Kay Ceniceros Senior Center – Palm Room located at 29995 Evans Rd. Each participant above the age of two is required to register as space is limited. The price per participant is $10 and registration is now open.

Santa on Wheels Those interested in a more personal meet and greet with Santa can register for Menifee’s Santa on Wheels program. This is a unique experience where Santa can be scheduled to stop at a private party, house, or gathering of your choosing for a 15minute personalized visit! While Santa would love to visit all the children in Menifee, he is available on December 15 – 21, not including weekends. Santa on Wheels is only available for Menifee residents and registration in now open, in-person only, at the Community Services Department located at 29995 Evans Rd. “The holiday season is a great time to come out and celebrate with one another,” said Community Services Director, Jonathan Nicks. “We are happy to bring back these events and bring joy to the Menifee community.”

For more information about the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, Breakfast with Santa, Santa on Wheels, or to get involved in any future special events, please contact the Community Services Department at www.cityofmenifee.us/specialevents, email communityservices@cityofmenifee.us, or call (951) 723-3880.

Santa in Murrieta Donuts with Santa December 4, 2021 - 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM Please join us at one of the following locations for a fun morning: Alderwood Park • Copper Canyon Park • Town Square Park Free, but please donate one non-perishable food item per person attending.

First come, first served to the first 300 kids.

DECEMBER 2021

PAGE 9

Festivities in Temecula Santa’s Electric Light Parade

Friday, December 3rd • 7:00 pm Start Have yourself a merry little Christmas when you attend the annual Santa's Electric Light Parade. The parade will begin at 7:00 PM sharp at the intersection of Jefferson Ave & Del Rio Rd. Be sure to bring your blankets and chairs as you watch the entries travel north along the parade route.

Chilled in the Park

Saturday, December 18th • 12:00 pm - 8:00 pm Ronald Reagan Sports Park To celebrate the holiday season, join us for Chilled in the Park! This event will feature magical entertainment, an ugly sweater contest, kids zone, and food vendors. Be sure to stick around for the festive fireworks display at 7:45 PM sharp.

Applications to be a vendor for this event will open online on October 1st, 2021.

Perris 33rd Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

12/03/2021 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM at City Hall. 101 N. D St. Perris Celebrate the holiday season with the City of Perris. The Christmas tree will be lit at 6:00 p.m. with performances from local community groups to follow.

Breakfast with Santa

12/18/2021 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM at City Hall, 101 N. D St. Perris Join Perris Community Services for a tasty breakfast with Santa Claus.

Bring your family and friends to meet Santa and his elves. Bring a camera or have us take a photo in a festive frame for only $3.00.

Seating 1: 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. • Seating 2: 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Bob Glass Gymnasium: 101 N. D Street Breakfast fee: Ages 5 — Adult : $9.50 Children 4 and under are free with paid adult. (one free child per paid adult). Children under 12 years must be accompanied by a paid adult. * Must be registered.

Sign up early as space is limited. Deadline to register is Wednesday, December 15, 2021. Call (951) 943-6603 for more information.

Lake Elsinore Winterfest 2021 - Annual Event Returns to Downtown Main Street

12/04/2021 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM Downtown Lake Elsinore on Main Street, Lake Elsinore Thousands of people will pack Main Street to help bring Downtown Lake Elsinore come alive with the holiday spirit for the annual Winterfest event!

FREE EVENT & OPEN TO THE PUBLIC - This event will feature: • Holiday Parade • Tree Lighting • FREE Sled Runs

Enjoy the Ice Skating Rink

12/03/2021 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM at City Hall, 101 N. D Street, Perris Skate rental and 40-minute skate session • $5.00 / person Friday, December 3: 6:00 p.m. — 10:00 p.m.

Saturday, December 4: 1:00 p.m. — 10:00 p.m.

Sunday, December 5: 11:00 a.m. — 4:00 p.m. * Pre-registration highly recommended For more information, please call the Community Service department at (951) 943-6603.

32nd Annual Christmas Parade

12/11/2021 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM at City Hall, 101 N. D Street, Perris SATURDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2021 10:00 a.m. — 12:00 p.m.

Rain or Shine | Downtown D Street Route Join the City of Perris for the 32nd Annual Christmas Parade celebration.

Enjoy school bands, equestrian units, floats, classic cars, youth and dance groups, military entries and much more.

Trophies will be awarded immediately following the parade. All entries will need to attend the mandatory pre-judging at the Bob Glass Gymnasium on December 10, 2021.

Parade entry applications are being accepted at the Bob Glass Gymnasium. $10.00 per entry and $100.00 per band.

Deadline to register is November 26, 2021.

Visit our website on www.cityofperris.org to register.

• Arts & Crafts • Food and Merchandise Vendors • Amusements for a low cost • PHOTOS WITH SANTA! The 6th annual Hometown Christmas parade will kick off the event at 3:00 p.m. traveling from the corner of Library & Main to Franklin & Main.

Looking to be a vendor? We have a variety of vendor opportunities available for crafters, activity and food vendors. For more information email mveliz@lake-elsinore.org or call 951-674-3124 ext 292.

Breakfast with Santa - NEW DATE ADDED

12/18/2021 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM Fire Station 97, 41725 Rosetta Canyon Dr., Lake Elsinore Join us Saturday, December 18, 2021, for a morning full of holiday cheer!

Santa will be posing for pictures while the elves cook up delicious North Pole pancakes. After breakfast, join the elves in the workshop for holiday crafts and letter writing to Santa!

Tickets are $5.00 per person Tickets are limited and only sold online! Tickets will not be available for purchase at the Fire Station. Kids under the age of 2 do not need a ticket.

For additional information contact mveliz@lake-elsinore.org

Merry Christmas!

DECEMBER 2021

PAGE 10

Christmas Tree Cupcakes From The Preppy Kitchen Rich, moist cupcakes topped with easy to make and quite festive Christmas trees made from ice cream cones, some buttercream and a dusting of powdered sugar for snow!

What could be more festive than little Christmas tree cupcakes? I think they look pretty good but the surprising part was HOW EASY it was to make them! You basically just pipe little star-shaped dollops onto a sugar cone with a number 30 tip. Any small star tip will do a good job really and if you don’t have any of those just use a leaf tip!

Make the cake/cupcake recipe of your choice .

Pro Tips For the BEST Christmas Tree Cupcakes • For an added surprise try adding some candy in the cone before applying it to the cupcake. Each cupcake can have a different surprise inside, no coal though!

• I like to give a really good dusting of powdered sugar “snow” to the trees for some added realism and depth.

• If you don’t have a #30 tip then try any small to medium star or leaf tip to pipe the tree.

• The trees can also look cute with little sugar or fondant ornaments and presents, too! I actually applied white ornaments to one tree with tweezers. It looked good but they kind of got lost in the snow. SO not worth the effort, for me at least. Hope you enjoy!!

• Use an ice cream scoop to get an even amount of batter NEATLY into each cupcake paper.

• You can see that the frosting applied to the cone is just a rough coat. It helps the dollops you apply adhere to the surface and prevents you from seeing any of the ice cream cone through gaps in your buttercream dollops.

Just allow the cupcakes to cool fully before applying the frosting. And by the by, these are so rich and moist, you might be making them all year round!

I really loved how the white frosting on the bottom looks like snow. A nice dusting of powdered sugar brings it all together.

1.

Use a knife or spatula to smooth a thin coat of buttercream to the cone. This will create a green base for the dollops and give a uniform appearance.

2.

Place the cone onto the cupcake and adjust as needed. I often add candy and chocolates to the cone and then place the cupcake on top so there’s a surprise waiting inside for the guest!

3.

Use a number 30 tip to pipe star-shaped dollops onto the surface of the cone beginning at the bottom and working to the top.

4.

Add the desired amount of snow by sifting confectioners sugar onto the cupcake and it’s ready to serve!

Merry Christmas!

P. S. You can use these festive cupcakes as a center arrangement with snow, ornaments or candles.

DECEMBER 2021

PAGE 11

Apple Slab Pie This recipe is simple yet elegant. You can dress it for the holidays by adding some fresh cranberries or walnuts for both.

3. Arrange apples in a tight row lengthwise down the middle of one puff pastry sheet leaving a one

INGREDIENTS

inch border on all sides. Pour re-

• 1 lb (2 large) granny smith apples, peeled, cored and cut into 1/3″ slices

maining syrup from the apples

• 4 Tbsp unsalted butter

over the top of the apples. Brush

• 1/4 cup brown sugar, lightly packed

your beaten egg around the

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

edges of your pastry. Top with

• 1 sheet (8 or 9 oz) frozen puff pastry, thawed (I used Pepperidge Farms) • All purpose flour for dusting

the second pastry sheet and press down on the edges to seal.

• 1 egg, lightly beaten for egg wash • Coarse sugar for sprinkling (I used raw sugar)

4. Cut 6 (1-inch wide) slits down the center of your pastry to create vents.

5. Brush the pastry with egg wash and sprinkle the top generously with coarse

DIRECTIONS Preheat Oven to 400˚F.

1. In a large skillet or a dutch oven, melt 4 Tbsp butter over medium heat. Add sliced apples and cook, stirring occasionally until lightly browned (6-8 min).

Reduce heat to low and stir in 1/4 cup brown sugar and 1 tsp cinnamon.

Continue to simmer, stirring occasionally until apples are soft and caramelized (5 min).

2. Lightly dust a sheet of parchment paper with flour. Place your thawed puff pastry dough over it and roll it out slightly to flatten the top (9 1/2 x 10 1/2 inches). Cut puff pastry dough in half down the center to make two pieces (each 4 3/4 x 10 1/2 inches).

sugar. Bake at 400˚F for 15-17 min or until top is golden brown.

PAGE 12

DECEMBER 2021

Outdoor Markets in Menifee Highlight Local Craftsmanship, Artistry, and Makers The City of Menifee is announced the addition of two new private outdoor markets to join the Menifee community, aimed at bringing new and fun shopping options to Menifee.

The Sun City Farmers Market and Menifee Trading Post Night Market both include a variety of local mom and pop vendors, and micro/small/cottage businesses aim at providing new shopping choices for local and regional residents and visitors.

The “Sun City Farmers Market” is a morning farmers market run that is the perfect addition to your Saturday routine. Operating every Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Sun City Civic Association (26850 Sun City Blvd.), the new farmers market is one that is growing and always looking for new vendors to help provide healthy eating options and produce for all to enjoy. There is always something new and exciting at this market, with fresh options such as home baked treats, handcrafted goods, healthy pet food and goods, delicious canned jams, Argentina empanadas, fresh organic fruit and vegetables, and more! Are you a local business or farmers market vendor

with something you’re interested in selling? Apply online at https://www.suncityfarmersmarket.com/ or contact (951) 795-0044 for more information.

Menifee’s newest night market, the “Menifee Trading Post,” will take place at Mercato Del Sole in the parking lot behind Living Spaces (30141 Antelope Rd.). The night market is on the third Friday of every month from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The new night market features over 30 curated vendors with various artisan wares, modern goods, handcrafted products, along with unique and flavorful food options. Hosted by Simply Made Local, the Menifee Trading Post has something for everyone and makes a great local option for holiday shopping! Interested in becoming a vendor? Visit Simply Made Local’s website for applications and for more information.

DECEMBER 2021

PAGE 13

Thank-you Neighbors Newspaper!

By Traci L. Williams

What an amazing opportunity and honor it has been to write for Neighbors Newspaper for the past 16 years. Thank you to Gino and Diane! Our community has been blessed with your leadership, commitment and heart. You and Neighbors Newspaper will always have a special place in the heart of our community.

In this final article shared with Neighbors’ families, I want to encourage parents. Life has gotten complicated, stressful and hurried, but it doesn’t have to be. You get to choose!

We all play a part in the lives of our children. Schools, coaches and other people have a place. Yet, more important than academics, athletics, scholarships, retirement and financial freedom are these things that our children must be learning at home: • Patience

• Gentleness

• Kindness

• Empathy

• Compassion

• Grace

• Self-care

• Encouragement

• Balance

• Boundaries

• Respect

• Their best is enough

• Perfection is not real

• Parents are in charge

• Family is the hub

• Values are important

• Priorities are chosen

• Slow is good

We live in a world where anxiety is diagnosed at 3 years old, 9-year old’s commit suicide and families rarely eat together. How does a family get off of that merry-go-round? It’s a decision that parents make to:

• Prioritize happiness and joy in childhood • Spend quality time as a family • Listen to understand • Limit the amount of homework required (reasonable amount) • Protect weekends and holiday breaks for family time • Understand what is being taught at school • Stand up for what is healthy for your family There is so much we can do to protect and nurture our children. As you take time off for the holiday season, consider discussing with your children changes your family can make for the coming year. What works? What doesn’t work? What would they like to change? Kids have great ideas!

As we complete this chapter of connecting through Neighbors Newspaper, I invite you to stay in touch. Simply go to www.alovingway.com, scroll to the bottom and sign up for our free newsletter. We would love to continue supporting you and your family!

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year filled with connection, healing and growth as a family.

Traci L. Williams is the Founder of A Loving Way to Parent. She is known for her intuitive and practical approach to parenting. Contact her for a free phone consultation at 951-240-1407 or traci@alovingway.com. (www.alovingway.com)

PAGE 14

DECEMBER 2021

Temecula Valley Elks National Drug Awareness Winner, Isabella Medici Earlier this year, Isabella Medici was the first-place video winner for the Drug Awareness Contest at the Temecula Valley Elks Lodge #2801. The theme was “Drug Abuse – No Excuse!” Her video entry was forwarded onto the Elks District Level, in which she competed with 11 other lodges and her video took 1st place at the District.

Her entry was sent on to the next level, which was the state (California and Hawaii) level, where she again took first place. Then onto to the top level, the National level and competed with Elks Lodges throughout the United States and took 1st place for the high school division. Isabella created this amazing “Winning” video on her cell phone, with the help of a special app she downloaded and her stylus! She received gift cards at the Local, District, State and National Levels, which totaled $1,470.00.

Isabella is from Temecula Valley High School and was in 10th grade (school year 2020-2021) when she submitted her entry to the Temecula Valley Elks Drug Awareness Competition. Isabella’s video centers around a man,

Left to Right – Vincent Puterbaugh, Exalted Ruler; Isabella Medici, National Drug Awareness Video Contest Winner and Diane Farrens, Lodge Drug Awareness Chairman

who has lost his loved one to drug abuse. The story shows the conflict between his love and her drug addiction and in the end, his love for her can’t help her overcome her drug addiction.

DECEMBER 2021

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Never Wait Until Christmas Eve to Wrap

By Kelly Roper Surely they should all be wrapped by now.

I went right back to my wrapping And shaking my head in doubt.

How would I finish by morning, When my fingers were about to give out?

There I sat on Christmas Eve Amid a big pile of gifts.

Waiting until the last moment to wrap Was really not too swift.

So I wrapped a bunch of presents, And then piled them on the floor.

I thought I was about half done, But suddenly it appeared there were more.

So I began wrapping faster, And my hands were really flying, But it seemed no matter how quickly I worked The unwrapped gifts kept multiplying.

And so I frantically stepped up my pace As sweat broke out on my brow.

But a look at that pile just made my heart race;

Hospice of the Valleys Named Prestigious 2021 Hospice Honors Elite Recipient Hospice of the Valleys has been named a 2021 Hospice Honors Elite recipient by HEALTHCAREfirst, a leading provider of billing and coding services, CAHPS surveys, and advanced analytics. This prestigious annual review recognizes agencies that continuously provide the highest level of quality care as measured from the caregiver’s point of view. It acknowledges the highest performing agencies by analyzing the performance of the Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (CAHPS) hospice survey satisfaction measures.

Out of 160 hospice agencies in California, Hospice of the Valleys is the only hospice to receive Elite Status. Nationwide, 58 hospice agencies out of 1,328 received this impressive recognition. Award recipients were identified by evaluating performance on a set of 24 quality indicator measures.

And that, my friends, is about the time, That the room began to spin.

I started feeling quite woozy, So I laid my head down and gave in.

And that is where they found me next morning, Passed out amid gifts on the floor.

So believe me when I make this promise; I won't wait until Christmas Eve anymore.

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DECEMBER 2021

EST. 1859

Temecula On Ice is Back Put on your skates and come down to Old Town Temecula Town Square Park on Main St and enjoy some real ‘winter’ outdoor fun. The skating rink will be open from December 9, 2021 through January 2, 2022

Daily Rink Hours: Sunday-Thursday 10:00 AM - 9:30 PM Friday-Saturday 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM

New Year’s Eve Grape Drop Ring in the new year Temecula style with the infamous Grape Drop! Celebrate 2022 twice with an East Coast (9:00 pm) and West Coast (midnight) countdown. The New Year’s Eve Grape Drop will include live music, food vendors, and kid’s activities. Free Fun Zone will be open from 6:00-10:00 pm.

Friday, December 31st 6:00 pm - 12:30 am

Holiday Hours:

Civic Center Quad on Main Street and Mercedes Next to the parking lot next to City Hall.

Christmas Day: 12:00-9:00 PM New Year’s Eve Skating Session:

Join the Celebration!

10:00 PM - 12:30 AM ($25 Admission including skates) Temecula On Ice is scheduled to return for another exciting holiday season with a state-of-theart ice rink, rental skates, Bobby skating aid and its own radio station playing the best ice-skating music. The ice rink will be open from December 9, 2021 through January 2, 2022.

The Grand Opening Show & Celebration Friday, December 10 at 5:00 PM Fees: Admission fee is $18 with skate rental Admission fee is $13 without skate rental Bobby the Seal skate aid rental is $8

PAGE 18

DECEMBER 2021

EST. 1859

On Stage this December at Temecula Theater

A CHRISTMAS CAROL The Musical Presented by Temecula Valley Players PERFORMANCES December 4, 5, 8, 9, 10 & 11, 2021 at 7:30 pm December 4, 5, 11, & 12, 2021 at 2:00 pm

An Old Town Temecula Family Favorite! It is Christmas Eve in London, England, 1850. Based on Charles Dicken’s most popular novel, this beloved tale of redemption, the damaging effects of isola-

tion, and the importance of love and compassion are displayed through Ebenezer Scrooge's transformation from a miserly, greedy, and lonely man into an empathetic and kind individual in A Christmas Carol. This story is told spectacularly by some of Broadway’s greatest composers (Disney's Beauty and the Beast, Disney's The Little Mermaid, Little Shop of Horrors, Ragtime, Seussical & Once on This Island). Join us for this festive and glorious Holiday Tradition!

Book by Lynn Ahrens & Mike Ockrent. Music and Lyrics by Alan Menken & Lynn Ahrens. Presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International.

TICKET PRICES $28 Orchestra $24 Parterre $24 Balcony $18 Wednesday & Thursday all seats $22 Groups of 15 or more* FRI/SAT/SUN only *Call the ticket office for group ticket sales.

DECEMBER 2021

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EST. 1859

THE NUTCRACKER BALLET Presented by The Ballet Studio in Association with Fine Arts Network Theater Company and Directed by Mark Erickson PERFORMANCES December 17 and 22, 2021 at 7:30 pm December 18, 2021 at 3:00 pm & 7:00 pm December 19, 2021 at 1:00 pm & 5:00 pm December 23, 2021 at 2:00 pm & 6:00 pm

Old Town Temecula Community Theater

Featured in the award-winning documentary film, “The Making of The Nutcracker" at the Temecula Valley International Film Festival, The Ballet Studio offers their renowned version of the most-performed ballet in the world…

The enchanting tale of a girl’s first love, a Magician, a Rat King, a Nutcracker, and a Prince, set to Tchaikovsky's classic score. Experience the Magic in Clara-Marie’s journey of joy, happiness, fear, her first love and with that… excitement, trepidation and fantasy!

Recognized in the LA Times as one of the best to see in Southern California and rated one of the top in KIDS GUIDE MAGAZINE for Nutcrackers to take children to. This is the Perfect Holiday Outing for the whole family!

TICKET PRICES $45 Orchestra Front • $39 Orchestra $35 Parterre • $32 Balcony * Discounts for Senior 65+ and Military.

CANDLELIGHT CLASSICS AT THE MERC Presented by California Chamber Orchestra in association with Temecula Presents PERFORMANCE Sunday, December 12, 2021, 3:00 pm

The annual Candlelight Classics celebration features brass selections for the season together with a special reception at intermission. The Merc will be decked out in its festive finery. Enjoy a glass of bubbly to help set the mood.

Amy Morris, trumpet John Tribelhorn, trumpet Bret Kelley, trombone Bruce Clausen, horn TICKET PRICES $30 Regular www.TemeculaTheater.org or 866.653.8696 Box Office: 42051 Main Street, Temecula, CA 92590

We wish you a Merry Christmas!

From the Shops in Old Town Temecula where Christmas shopping is fun not frenzied.

DECEMBER 2021

PAGE 21

Historic Hemet Theatre 100 YEARS NEVER LOOKED SO GOOD By: Emily Rand Built in 1921, the Historic Hemet Theatre is one of the oldest movie houses in the country. For decades it served as a vibrant center of the community. But back in the 1980’s, the venue closed – crushed by the popularity of the new multiplex theatres in town. And just like in so many small towns, the downtown district around it faded too.

In 2000, a couple of movie buffs Historic Hemet Theatre, circa 1936. bought the building and tried to breathe new life into the theatre. But they were not able to attract enough patrons to sustain the business. In 2010, a fire in the adjacent storefronts closed their business for good, putting the building up for sale once again.

Then in 2013, a charitable foundation took over operation of the theatre with a mission to create a community arts center. Work was begun to reverse years of neglect and revive the building’s art deco charm of the 1940s.

Focal point of the rejuvenation is a stunning new lobby featuring a series of wall murals by Dan Melendez. “Patrons are blown away with the transformation,” says CEO Susan Carrier. “But we have just begun the work of restoring the building and bringing the venue up to modern building codes. Next on the list is creating handicap seating and restrooms so that everyone in the community can enjoy this beautiful Marilyn Monroe is one of theatre.” three lobby murals Key to the center’s success is a concert series painted by Dan Melendez.

dubbed “Tribute Mania,” that brings the best tribute bands in the country to town.

Since 2013, over 100 tribute bands have performed, drawing over 35,000 fans into Hemet’s Historic Downtown District.

Within just 8 years, the Historic Hemet Theatre has become a thriving community arts center, drawing patrons from hundreds of miles away. And this year, readers of the Press Enterprise voted HHT “Best Local Music Venue” in Historic Hemet Theatre Auditorium the Inland Empire.

The success is happening just in time for the building’s 100th anniversary. The Foundation is celebrating with a series of special events that began in August with a “Century Celebration” hosted by both of the local Chambers of Commerce. In October, the party continued with a presentation on the history of the theatre and tours of the upper level that will become a Museum of Early Film dedicated to William Martin who built the theatre 100 years ago.

The pinnacle of the celebration will be a 100-year Foundation Gala on January 15, 2022. “Vintage Vegas” will feature an appearance by famed impressionist and comedian Rich Little.

Meanwhile, the next season of Tribute Mania begins in January, with tributes to The Bee Gees, Prince, Marvin Gaye, AC/DC, Maña, The Doors, Johnny Cash and Van Halen. Tickets for Tribute Mania events are $25, general admission. Showtime is 7:00 pm, with doors open at 6:15 pm.

Information on all theatre events is available at www.HistoricHemetTheatre.com or by calling the ticket office, (951) 658-5950. You can subscribe to the HHT email blast by enrolling on the website.

DECEMBER 2021

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theGoodnews

That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. 9 Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. They were terrified, 10 but the angel reassured “I bring you good news that will bring great joy them. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. to all people. 11 The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! 12 And you will recognize him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger.” ~ Luke 2: 8-12 NLT

8

God’s Greatest Surprise

By Max Lucado

He didn’t call Himself “the reverend Holiness Angelic Divinity III.” He didn’t insist on plush, royal robes or gleaming, golden scepters. He didn’t come on the wings of a heavenly host, live in a celestial palace, or march at the head of an angelic honor guard.

He was the son of a carpenter in a remote section of an oppressed nation. He was God’s greatest surprise. The heart of heaven wrapped in human flesh. If you’ve forgotten what He’s really like—or you’d like to get to know Him better— read on!

Chapter 1 – From Heaven to Earth with Love

The authenticity of the questioner didn’t allow you to regard him as a cynic nor to dismiss him as a show-off. To the contrary he seemed nervous about commanding such attention. His awkwardness betrayed his inexperience in public speaking. But his desire to know was just an ounce or two heavier than his discomfort, so he continued.

“And after the killing he was buried in a borrowed grave?”

“Yes, he had no grave of his own, nor money with which to purchase one.”

The honesty of the dialogue kept the audience spellbound. I realized I was witnessing one of those rare times when two people were willing to question the holy. Here were two men standing on opposite sides of a deep chasm, one asking the other if the bridge that stretched between them could actually be trusted.

“You mean to tell me God became a baby…

The one posing the questions was puzzled. His thick eyebrows furrowed in doubt and his eyes squinted in caution. Though there were places to sit, he opted not to do so. He preferred to stand safely behind the crowd, unsure, yet intrigued by what he was hearing. Throughout the lecture he had listened intently, occasionally uncrossing his arms to stroke his whiskered chin. Now, however, he stood upright, punching the air with his finger as he queried.… and that he was born in a sheep stable?”

He looked as though he’d walked down from one of the adjacent Colorado mountains: stocking hat, down vest, nylon leggings, hiking boots. And he sounded as though he honestly didn’t know if the story he was hearing was a mountain legend or the gospel truth.

“Yes, that is what I mean to say, “the lecturer responded.

“And then, after becoming a baby he was raised in a blue-collar home?

He never wrote any books or held any offices, yet he called himself the Son of God?” “That is right.”

The lecturer being questioned was Landon Saunders, the voice of the Heartbeat Radio program. I’ve never heard anybody tell the story of the Nazarene like Landon can.

“He never traveled outside of his own country, never studied at a university, never lived in a palace, and yet asked to be regarded as the creator of the universe?”

“That’s correct.”

I was a bit unnerved by the dialogue. I was fresh out of college, gung-ho, enthusiastic. As a volunteer helper in the lecture series, I had come with memorized verses and responses loaded in the chamber of my evangelistic six-shooter. However, I came prepared to defend a lifestyle, not a Savior. I was ready to argue morality, doctrine, heaven and hell. I wasn’t ready to argue a man. Jesus had always been someone I just accepted. These questions were a too aggressive for my virgin faith.

Then it began to dawn on me: What God did makes sense. It makes sense that Jesus would be our sacrifice because a sacrifice was needed to justify man’s presence before God. It makes sense that God would use the Old Law to tutor Israel on their need for grace. It makes sense that Jesus would be our High Priest. What God did makes sense. It can be taught, charted, and put in books on systematic theology.

“And this crucifixion story. . . he was betrayed by his own people? No followers came to his defense? And then he was executed like a common junkyard thief?”

“That’s the gist of it.”

However, why God did it is absolutely absurd. When one leaves the method and examines the motive, the carefully stacked blocks of logic begin to tumble. That type of love isn’t logical; it can’t be neatly outlined in a sermon or explained in a term paper.

There was a hint of emotion in the student’s voice as he carefully worded the next question. “And according to what’s written, after three days in the grave he was resurrected and made appearances to over five hundred people?”

“Yes.” “And all this was to prove that God still loves his people and provides a way for us to return to him?”

“Right.”

I knew which question was coming next. Everyone in the room knew it.

It could have gone without being asked. In my heart of hearts, I was hoping that it wouldn’t be asked.

“Doesn’t that all sound rather. . .” He paused a second, searching for the right adjective. “Doesn’t that all sound rather absurd?”

All the heads turned in perfect sync and looked at Landon. All the heads, that is, except mine. My head was spinning as I was forced to look at Jesus from a new angle. Christianity … absurd? Jesus on a cross. . . absurd? The Incarnation. . . absurd? The Resurrection… absurd? My Sunday school Jesus had been taken down from the flannel board.

Landon’s response was simple. “Yes. Yes, I suppose it does sound absurd, doesn’t it?”

I didn’t like that answer. I didn’t like it at all. Tell the fellow how it made sense! Diagram the dispensations. Present fulfilled prophecies. Explain the fulfillment of the Old Law. Covenant. Reconciliation. Redemption. Sure, it made sense. Don’t let him describe God’s actions as absurd!

DECEMBER 2021

theGoodnews

Think about it. For thousands of years, using his wit and charm, man

PAGE 23

It’s easy to see the absurdity.

had tried to be friends with God. And for thousands of years, he had let God

Why didn’t he give up? Why didn’t he let the globe spin off its axis?

down more than he had lifted him up. He’d done the very thing he promised

Even after generations of people had spit in his face, he still loved them.

he’d never do. It was a fiasco. Even the holiest of the heroes sometimes for-

After a nation of chosen ones had stripped him naked and ripped his incar-

got whose side they were on. Some of the scenarios in the Bible look more

nated flesh, he still died for them. And even today, after billions have chosen

like the adventures of Sinbad the Sailor than stories for vacation Bible school.

to prostitute themselves before the pimps of power, fame, and wealth, he still

Remember these characters?

waits for them.

Aaron. Right-hand man to Moses. Witness of the plagues. Member of

It is inexplicable. It doesn’t have a drop of logic nor a thread of rationality.

the “Red Sea Riverbed Expedition.” Holy priest of God. But if he was so

And yet, it is that very irrationality that gives the gospel its greatest defense.

saintly, what was he doing leading the Israelites in fireside aerobics in front

For only God could love like that.

of the golden calf?

The sons of Jacob. The fathers of the tribes of Israel. Great-grandsons of Abraham. Yet, if they were so special, why were they gagging their younger brother and sending him to Egypt?

I don’t know what happened to that inquisitive fellow in Colorado. He disappeared as quickly as he came. But I’m in his debt. He forced me to see Jesus as I’d never seen him.

At first, I didn’t recognize him. I guess I was expecting someone in a flow-

David. The man after God’s own heart. The King’s king. The giant-slayer

ing frock with silky-white hands. But it was he. The lion. The Judean Lion. He

and songwriter. He’s also the guy whose glasses got steamy as a result of a

walked out from among the dense trees of theology and ritual and lay down

bath on a roof. Unfortunately, the water wasn’t his, nor was the woman he

in a brief clearing. In his paw was a wound and in his mane were stains of

was watching.

blood. But there was a royalty about him that silenced even the breeze in the

And Samson. Swooning on Delilah’s couch, drunk on the wine, perfume, and soft lights. He’s thinking, ‘She’s putting on something more comfortable’.

She’s thinking, ‘I know I put those shears in here somewhere’.

Adam adorned in fig leaves and stains of forbidden fruit. Moses throwing both a staff and a temper tantrum. King Saul looking into a crystal ball for the will of God. Noah, drunk and naked in his own tent.

These are the chosen ones of God? This is the royal lineage of the King?

These are the ones who were to carry out God’s mission?

trees. Bloodstained royalty. A God with tears. A creator with a heart. God became earth’s mockery to save his children.

How absurd to think that such nobility would go to such poverty to share such a treasure with such thankless souls.

But he did. In fact, the only thing more absurd than the gift is our stubborn unwillingness to receive it.

God’s Greatest Surprise © 1994 by Max Lucado. Taken from God Came Near © 1987 by Multnomah Press. Printed with permission.

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theGoodnews

DECEMBER 2021

A DECADE OF DESTINY: Restoration and Transformation in Lake Elsinore

By David Baker & Cathy Cook Templeton, DCLE Volunteers & Board Members

Imagine driving down a street near your home and discovering a park that is a homeless encampment. Real people live there because they have nowhere else to go. Upon a closer look, you see dozens of needles strewn across the grassy areas as well as the playground, where children are now eerily absent. What would you do? Would you wonder why someone isn’t doing anything to help?

That’s exactly what resident and pastor Brett Masters thought that day, back in 2008. In his prayers, he asked God that question. In that moment, he felt a stirring in his heart to be that “someone”. He knew he didn’t have all the answers, but he also knew that he needed to do something. Having visited the Dream Center in Los Angeles, and catching their vision of working with the homeless-many of whom were drug addicted and had mental health challenges--he had a dream to replicate their successful program in the heart of Lake Elsinore.

You've heard the phrase, “it was an overnight success.” It's rarely the case.

It actually took six years to formulate the plan. The tiny army included his wife, Aubrey, their boys and a small handful of volunteers. Their prayers were the seedlings that needed to be planted before the ministry could make a change in the community. They went through the City Park every Saturday, cleaning up the debris from the week before. They spoke with the people and offered resources for recovery. The park began to shine with hope and families began to bring their children back to play again.

In 2014, Brett Masters was commissioned to serve as the lead pastor and executive director of the Dream Center of Lake Elsinore. With strong support from the Free Methodist Church, a downtown building was secured as a headquarters. DCLE would depend on volunteers to reach needy residents in the community, walk alongside them in faith, and help them in their transformation into independent, productive citizens. Primary ministries are the DC Pantry (formerly Hope Pantry), a Youth Ministry, Adopt-A-Block and a Prayer Ministry.

One building that caught Brett's eye early on sat across from City Park. It is the former Ambassador Hotel. It laid barren--not having been used in decades.

It was constructed in 1887 and housed the Exchange Bank of Lake Elsinore, founded by Franklin Heald. It was converted to the Ambassador in 1916. Recalling his visit to the Dream Center of Los Angeles, Brett knew it could be a place of transformation for the people that he was meeting on a regular basis. Prior to acquiring the Dream Center building, it was the place that everyone met to pray.

Pastor Chuck Klingman remembers those days well. “There were just a few of us who came every Saturday to pray. When I noticed the rusted chain and

lock on the front doors of the Ambassador, I felt led to lay my hands upon them as I prayed. Everyone joined in and we did this every week. To us it signified the lives of those in the city who were “chained” by addiction and homelessness. We prayed for God to break that very lock and chain and restore the lives of the citizens of this city. Believe it or not, today a plant is growing out of the building on the other side--this abandoned building--which is evidence to us that our prayers are being answered and that life is coming back! The chains and the plant are amazing pictures of the work we believe has already been started by God in answer to our steadfast prayers. This is an exciting time!” After 7 years of praying for this hotel, asking God for wisdom and favor, DCLE recently closed escrow and will renovate the building to current codes.

Each floor of the Ambassador will have a distinct purpose; the ground floor will house a 1950's style diner, open to the public. It will be a tribute to the hotel’s former owner who had it in full bloom when it was operational. The remaining three floors will separately house female residents, male residents and entire families. Each of the upper floors will have a live-in program coordinator to mentor their respective groups. The residents will complete various programs including recovery, basic life skills, deep spiritual formation and community service. Each will be kept busy with service projects like removing weeds and trash, planting flowers, and coming alongside volunteers to partake in projects to beautify Lake Elsinore. As residents complete their programs and are revitalized as individuals, they will continue to serve in a way that revitalizes the entire community.

Brett continues to fulfill and expand his original dream. He foresees that the former hotel will someday be recognized as "the premier life transformation center in southern California and will become a model for other cities. Truly, God is calling us into a decade of destiny! The outreach efforts we've taken so far are just a beginning - there's so much more that's needed to heal the physical, emotional and spiritual wounds that have afflicted our community. May we never forget those who are most vulnerable and marginalized right here in our own backyard.

I don't want to get to the end of this decade and find that our dreams were too small . . . that we shrank back from stepping into the potential of this new decade with the kind of big faith required to shake a city and heal an entire community!"

After reading this story you may be asking, “How can I help?” Please attend a monthly Volunteer Orientation to learn the full history of the Dream Center, the programs and people leading the organization. It is held the third Saturday of each month (excluding December) from 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm. To donate online or view more information, visit www.dreamcenterle.org.

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DECEMBER 2021

theGoodnews

His government and its peace will never end.

He will rule with fairness and justice from the throne of his ancestor David for eternity. ~ Isaiah 9:7 NLT

Unto us A Child is Born

By Pastor John Stewart

Numerous Old Testament prophecies promised a coming Savior—the Messiah, the Anointed One—who would redeem the people of God. The centerpiece of all the Christmas prophecies, Isaiah 9:6, was written nearly six hundred years before Jesus’ birth. Isaiah promised it would be a miraculous event, unlike any the world had ever known, and the details Isaiah gave were fulfilled precisely by Jesus.

“For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace”. (Isaiah 9:6) Consider the profound truths in this one verse and the attributes of this extraordinary child. To Israel, Isaiah’s prophecy was news of a coming King. To the unsuspecting world, the prophecy promised a Savior, God incarnate, who’s coming would dramatically and forever alter human history.

“For unto us a Child is born” declares His humanity. He began life like any other human being—as an infant. We know from the New Testament that Christ experienced every temptation common to man, but He never sinned (Hebrews 4:15). As a man, He felt everything we feel, hurt like we hurt, grieved like we grieved, and in His death, He even felt the weight of sin as He took ours upon Himself.

“Unto us a Son is given” speaks of the Savior’s preexistent deity. Saying “given,” not “born,” Isaiah suggests that Jesus existed before His birth. He was already God, the second Person of the Trinity, before He was given to us to be our Savior (Philippians 2:6-7). He came as the Son of God—God in a human body—to conquer sin and death forever. He is the perfect Son of God, the promise of the ages, the Holy One of Israel, the desire of nations, the light in darkness, the only hope for our lost world.

“And the government will be upon His shoulder” looks to a future when Christ shall reign over a literal, earthly kingdom encompassing all the kingdoms and governments of the world (Zechariah 14:9; Daniel 2:44). In that day, the government of the whole world will rest on His shoulders, and He will reign as sovereign over a worldwide kingdom of righteousness and peace. In the meantime, His government operates in secret. His kingdom and sovereign rule are manifest within those who trust Him as their Lord. (Luke 17:20-21).

As Wonderful Counselor, Messiah’s resolves the world’s confusion. During His incarnation, Christ demonstrated His wisdom as a counselor. When people came to Him, He always knew what to say, when to reach out to a seeking heart, and when to rebuke an impetuous soul. The testimony of those who heard Him was, “Never has a man spoken the way this man speaks” (John 7:46). Christ is the source of all truth (John 14:6), and it is to Him that we must turn to make sense of life’s confusion. Jesus is the Counselor who knows everything. He knows all about you; He knows the needs of your heart; He knows how to answer those needs. And He always gives wise counsel to those who will hear and obey Him. Mighty God leads a kingdom free from all chaos. “God is not a God of confusion but of peace” (1 Cor. 14:33) This means chaos is antithetical to who He is.

Christ deals with a chaotic world providing wonderful counsel, and by His almighty power, bringing order. He not only rightly guides as Wonderful Counselor, but triumphantly strengthens for right living—because He is the Mighty God. In Jesus we have a sovereign Lord who forgives sin, defeats Satan, frees from sins power, answers prayers, and reigns over rebuilt lives!

Everlasting Father means our God and King is “the Father of Eternity.” According to God the Father’s testimony, the Son—Jesus—is the Person of the Godhead who created time out of eternity and fashioned the universe from nothing (Hebrews 1:10-12). Nothing is too difficult for the Creator and Sustainer of everything. Infinity and all its intricacies are nothing to Him who is the Alpha and Omega, the First and Last, the Beginning and the End—the Father of Eternity.

He declares the end from the beginning (Isaiah 46:10). He is in complete control, He sees the end of everything, and He guarantees that all things will work together for the ultimate good of all His kingdom’s subjects (Romans 8:28).

Prince of Peace points to a kingdom without conflict because He is the Prince of Peace. He offers “peace from God” (Romans 1:7) to all who receive His grace. He makes “peace with God” (Romans 5:1) for those who surrender to Him in faith. And He brings the “peace of God” (Philippians 4:7) to those who walk with Him. His earthly life was heralded by angels declaring peace on earth (Luke 2:14). There has never been peace on earth in the sense we think of it. Wars and rumors of wars have characterized the history of mankind. The announcement of peace on earth was a two-pronged proclamation. First, it declared the arrival of the only One who will ultimately bring lasting peace on earth, but more importantly, it promised God’s peace is available within mankind.

Pastor John Stewart is the Executive Pastor at Revival Christian Fellowship in Menifee. For more information and messages: www.Revival.TV

DECEMBER 2021

PAGE 26

PETS

Pets for Adoption Retrievers and Friends

Libby is a beautiful, 5-month old German Shepherd. She came in with her mother, brother and sister.

She was living on a ranch. She has not had any training. She is gentle, friendly and has a very nice temperament.

Dani is a 10-month old Beagle-Pug mix, about 15 lbs. She is playful with other dogs, but shy when meeting new people. She walks on a leash and is house trained. She may do best in a home with another dog to give her some courage.

Ginger (left) and Cami (right) are precious little girls (7 and 6 lbs.)

They are shy until they get to know you and then love to be held. Both are Shih Tzu mix. Ginger is about 8 yrs. old and Cami around 2 (may be mother & daughter). We’d like them to stay together.

Logan came in with his brother Wesley. They are 8-week old Pug mix puppies. They are full of love and looking for a nice home, ready for a pup! They do not need to stay together.

For more information on these and other pets available for adoption or to fill out an online application, please visit www.retrieversandfriends.com.

DECEMBER 2021

Visiting Our Vineyards

PAGE 27

Holidays in Wine Country Europa Village Gingerbread Village Now through Sunday, January 2nd We invite you to stop by the Bolero lobby at Europa Village, to experience our dazzling gingerbread village that you might even be able to smell from a mile away. Created by Executive Chef Hany Ali and his team, the elaborately decorated gingerbread replica of the future Europa Village Wineries and Resort is covered with individual gingerbread bricks, royal icing, and festive candy and much more.

The Nutcracker Presented at Bolero Winery Thursday-Sunday, December 2nd-5th | 7 pm The Ballet Studio & Norris Performing Arts Center brings its version of the most-performed ballet in the world to the outdoor Piazza at Europa Village in the heart of the Temecula Wine Country. The enchanting tale of a girls first love, a Magician, a Rat King, a Nutcracker, and a Prince, set to Tchaikovsky’s classic score comes to life in the magical Christmas setting at Europa.

Not only will guests have the opportunity to experience this holiday classic, but we will also be offering a very special 3-course Nutcracker dinner at 5:30 PM before each show.

Book your tickets or one of our exclusive packages now as seating is limited. www.europavillage.com

Carter Estate Winery Unveils an Exclusive Méthode Champenoise Tasting Experience Featuring Grazing Theory Saturdays and Sundays, from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm A wonderful weekend activity for sparkling wine and fine cheese lovers, Carter Estate Winery has launched a special new tasting experience – a collaboration between the award-winning vineyard and Temecula-based Grazing Theory, a shop and catering company that specializes in charcuteries and cheese boards.

Guests sip and savor three sparkling wines produced in classic French méthode champenoise fermentation techniques – 2015 Blanc de Blanc, 2015 Blanc de Noir and 2015 Brut – all with delightfully unique aromas and tasting profiles. The sparklers are to be enjoyed with four delicious cheese pairing selections from Grazing Theory – Double French Brie, Truffle Tremor, Purple Haze and Mahon Manarco – cow and goat milk cheeses that each have distinctive aromas and flavor notes particularly compatible to these sparkling wines. $32 per person; reservations recommended.

PAGE 28

Kids

DECEMBER 2021

JDS Creative Academy Winter Showcase Wraps up 2021 with Grease When you think about the creative arts, what comes to mind? Perhaps musical theatre, fashion design, or scriptwriting? These are all essential components of the arts - no role in the production of a creative performance is too small. JDS Creative Academy, a Temecula based non-profit organization, prides itself on being a staple in creative-arts education.

One of JDS Creative Academy’s fundamental creative arts programs is musical theatre. The class has been working on a production of Grease since September and they will be doing two live-theatre performances in December at the JDS Creative Academy Winter Showcase.

As 2021 wraps up, all the fall classes culminate into the Winter Showcase which includes not only the production of Grease but also a fashion show from the fashion design class and scenes performed from the scripts written by the scriptwriting class.

The Winter Showcase will be a RSVP event taking place on Saturday, December 18 at 6:00 pm and Sunday, December 19 at 2:00 pm. Door donations will be accepted and appreciated as they are used to fund scholarships in the creative arts to at-risk youth, foster youth and those with financial limitations.

JDSCA also offers scholarships for advancement into higher education to graduating seniors moving on to pursue a future in the arts.

The #JDSFamily is already underway and excitedly preparing for the 2022 creative arts classes. There are a variety of classes offered at JDS Studios: youth, teen and adult acting programs; an age 10 and up musical theatre program, as well as fashion design, scriptwriting, backstage production and a specifically-designed video-production job-training program for adults with developmental disabilities.

JDS Creative Academy visual and performing arts programs work with K-12 traditional and charter school students. All classes and programs are led by trained professionals, and meet VAPA California education requirements. Our creative performing arts programs are open to adults as well. Mark your calendar for these upcoming dates in January 2022: the teen and adult acting classes with JDS Actors Studio return Tuesday, January 4th at 5pm for ages 12-17 and Jan. 6th at 7:00 pm for adults; on January 10th, JDS will kick off Little Actors Classes, ages 4-6, at 4:00 pm, followed by Youth Acting for ages 7-11 at 5:00 pm. Fashion design will begin again on Wednesday, January 26th and scriptwriting will start on Monday, January 31. Auditions for the Spring musical will take place on Thursday, January 27, 2022 at 5:00 pm.

COVID regulations have come with many changes and JDS Creative Academy was no exception to the necessary adjustments needed to protect ourselves and those around us. As the world slowly returned to doing enjoyable things, the JDS Family was excited to welcome program participants, youth, teen, and adult actors, script writers, fashion and backstage design students, and musical theatre Students back into the studio. The JDS classes serve as a safe place to pursue the arts, but also as a place to feel a sense of belonging and normalcy once again.

The Fall 2021 classes were a huge success thanks to the students and staff for their dedication to safety regulations, the creative arts, and, most importantly, to working together.

The Winter Showcase will be a wonderful representation of all the hard work the #JDSFamily has put into creating a safe, collaborative and fun environment.

We look forward to the community coming out and enjoying the JDS Creative Academy Winter Showcase with the production of Grease, a fashion show, and scenes written by the students of JDS Creative Academy and performed by JDS Actors. What better way to wrap up 2021 than by supporting the arts, seeing wonderful theatre, and enjoying creative ingenuity?

For information on enrollment opportunities visit www.jdscreative academy.org/programs. Make sure you RSVP for the Winter Showcase and Grease on the website as well. Call (951) 296-6715 for additional information.

DECEMBER 2021

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Kids

M i racl e M u f f i n s

By Professor Kidsbrary It was the most magical time of the year, When people smiled, Greeting all with good cheer!

Mrs. Jones kid's shoes Had so many holes, They stuffed them with paper, To make cardboard soles!

Miracle Muffins…

No place were they sold, Because this recipe, Was a secret and old!

A few days later...

More prayers came to bear, But these were of gratitude, Of which I'd like to share...

The stores were busy With customers bustling, As salesclerks, fast paced Now were hustling...

At the Langley house There was a family of six, Food was quite scarce, A major problem to fix!

Every muffin was made Of the finest milled flour, Fresh eggs, real butter And cooked for an hour…

Mr. Coles next store neighbor, Was moving out of state, To costly now, to ship his car A gift to the Coles to celebrate!

Lines to see Santa And sit on his lap, Were winding and long For children needing a nap!

And old Mr. Clemons Who lived down the street, Lacked the money he owed, For his furnace to heat!

But what made them special?

Each one, filled a need…

Inside every center, A real mustard seed!

Mr. Logan with no job…

Searched for work every day, When a friend called unexpectedly, Of a job offer… with great pay!

With presents to wrap This holiday season…

Those with family and friends, Were blessed with good reason

All were in great need During this holiday, Too poor to change things, They could... only pray

Faith as small as a mustard seed?

I know this to be true, With God’s help nothing, Will be impossible… for you!

But not all were fortunate Many had a great need, Like money for bills, And tummies to feed!

The Cole's had a car That no longer ran, Mr. Logan lost his job, Doing odd jobs when he can.

Not too far away...

Their voices were heard, By an elderly lady, Whose emotions were stirred...

Mrs. Moor you see Was baker by trade, But only one item Had she ever made!

So, Mrs. Moor baked All through the night, Praying into the batter…

Making each one just right!

Last Old Mr. Clemons, Who tried hard to keep warm, Had his furnace turn on suddenly From a strange electrical storm!

Were the Miracle Muffins responsible?

Too hard for you to conceive?

Try faith as small as a mustard seed, And the impossible… you will believe!

The End

Mrs. Jones children With shoes now falling apart, Were given gift cards to use, From a stranger with a heart!

The Langley family, With little vegetables and meat, Found food on their porch…

For a whole month to eat!

Then off to those who Would receive her baking A basket full of miracles, Were now in the making...

WORD SEARCH FOR KIDS FROM A KID

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

Hope optimism endurance wish

dream aspire promise

from djr faith reward goal

believe destiny beyond

DECEMBER 2021

PAGE 30

Elsinore Woman’s Club

Community Events & Activities

Elsinore Woman’s Club united in service since 1906. Our members dedicate thousands of hours each year to local, national and international programs that benefit our community and improve lives of others.

General Meeting: Every second Thursday of the month, September through June. Social Hour: 10 AM to 11 AM. Meeting: 11 AM to Noon.

Luncheon and Program: Noon.

Visit our website: www.ElsinoreWomansClub.org

21st Annual Angel Tree Christmas Party December 12, 2021 Would you give a child hope for the future to know they are not alone or forgotten this Christmas?

Please donate by clicking this link.

You can also drop off Christmas gifts at Shear Expressions Salon at 40557 California Oaks Road next to Jersey’s Pizza in Murrieta. https://buy.chip-in.us/?nonprofitId=105451 For more information about Community Outreach Ministries, the event or ways to donate contact Mona Davies at 951-231-5515 or daviesmmd1@gmail.com.

For more information: Contact our Membership Chairman, Kimberly Ryan at: 909-263-8332.

710 W Graham Ave, Lake Elsinore; CA 92530. It is an exciting time to be a member of Elsinore Women’s Club! A Sisterhood of Service Temecula Valley Newcomers Club Luncheon Please come join us for our fantastic Christmas luncheon on Monday December 20th, 2021 @11AM. Where we will be entertained by a Frank Sinatra tribute show, along with a wine bar, a huge raffle and a chance to win $100.00. It will be a good time had by all. Everyone is welcome. Enjoy good food, great company and make some new friends. If you have recently moved to the Temecula Valley or surrounding area 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

Moms in Prayer Rise up together and pray! We are moms and grandmothers who pray together impacting children and schools for Christ worldwide! You are invited to pray for your child or grandchild and their school. Join us each week as we pray for the Lord’s will in our kids’ lives through the Word of God. Temecula and Murrieta have multiple groups covering from elementary school to college. Find the local group near you! Go to momsinprayer.org or Text: Groups to 51555 Harmoneers Chorale Concerts in December Welcome Christmas Concerts will be held on December 5 at 3:00pm at the First Presbyterian Church, 515 E. Kimbell Ave., Hemet and on December 11 at 3:00pm at Grace Fellowship Circle Church at 375 N. Sanderson Avel, Hemet.

Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at the door. For more information: Phil Martinez pmtnz@hotmail.com.

Creek Winery, 35960 Rancho California Rd. Temecula. Paid reservations are required at least one week prior to the luncheon. Please call Gwen Jimenez at 951461-1525. This club is a social organization with many different activities for members such as card games, book clubs, mahjong, golf, dominos, bunco, bridge, theater trips, lunch and dinner groups and much more. For club information, please call Nancy Grider at 916-316-4398. Hope to see you at our next meeting and luncheon.

Chris Mozy, Hey, King and Nathan Jessie Performance AT the Merc in Old Town FRI, NOV 19 at 7PM Raleigh-based songwriter, Chris Mozy, came up in the Southern California music scene as the youngster of a group that included a founding member of No Doubt. Combining acoustic sensibilities with pop melodies, Mozy has now put on his singer hat to perform a collection of new and reworked original music along the same lines as Ben Rector and Kris Allen.

TICKETS: $14 Regular at www.temeculatheater.com

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

Hope from djr

optimism endurance wish dream aspire promise

faith reward goal believe destiny beyond