Neighbors Newspaper June 2021 by Simones Holdings

JUNE 2021

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SENIORS

Now Open in Temecula

Temecula Memory Care New to the community, Temecula Memory Care is a 64-bed memory care facility serving patients suffering from Dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and other diagnoses of mental health. As part of the 80,000 sq. ft. Temecula Healthcare Center campus, the patients will also have access to all of the services of a skilled nursing facility. Temecula Memory Care is one the few memory care providers in California to share a campus with a skilled nursing facility. Without having to relocate, our residents can call Temecula Healthcare home and access all the benefits of a skilled nursing facility, with elevated care and all the healthcare services they might need.

A secure environment is provided for patients who tend to wander. Close monitoring ensures their safety. The staff’s 24-hour nursing care includes assistance with the activities of daily living (dressing, bathing, grooming, transfers, ambulation, etc.), feeding or assistance with meals, diabetic management, giving of medications, treatments, etc. Built to ensure patient success and comfort, Temecula Memory Care is centered around patient wellness, physically and emotionally. There are areas around the facility perfect for familypatient visits. We encourage families to share meals with residents’ as much as possible in facility’s private dining room.

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SENIORS

Do You Believe in Miracles? The First Miracle: Elena is 72, and, after a 50-year delay, is completing her Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management on May 31st. She had to quit college over 50 years ago due to health and family reasons. But the COVID quarantine occurred and, with encouragement, she enrolled in the University of Phoenix to try and complete her education. She completed 28 courses in 14 months with a 3.96 GPA!

Temecula Valley Symphony musicians are excited to reignite the passion we have presented for the past 25 years. As we enter our 26th Season we look forward to sharing some exciting concert programming with our audiences. We are currently planning to present two outdoor concerts to kick-off our 2021-22 Season “IGNITE.”

The Second Miracle: Because our family is scattered around the country, we decided to attend the graduation ceremonies of UOP in Chicago on June 26th. We set up all the flights and hotel rooms for our family and everyone was so excited. But then the University CANCELLED all live ceremonies. Her disappointment was huge. She and I wrote letters and even posted her disappointment on Facebook. She received a call from the head of the university department of graduation ceremonies, a woman named Jessica. Jessica spoke to the Provost and they agreed that they will be coming to Chicago on June 26th, renting a venue, creating a program, purchasing her regalia, and performing a graduation for ONE! With a luncheon afterwards for our family. “Brings tears to my eyes as I write this,” exclaimed Elena’s husband, Richard Shuldiner, OD.

The first program is titled “THE DAYS OF WINE & ROSES” and will feature a vocalist and selections from romantic movies. Another concert will focus on “TIMELESS CLASSICS” – classical music selections that have become popular standards with symphony orchestras worldwide. To sign up for our mailing list please send an email to tvsinfo@temeculavalleysymphony.org or call 951-587-1536. As details are finalized for these concerts, we will update our website and include you on our email blasts. We look forward to seeing you at one of our concerts this season! Thank you for supporting live music. – Alana Joos, Managing & Artistic Director, Temecula Valley Symphony

An Opportunity to Enjoy a Presentation by Rebecca K. O’Connor Writings are about wildlife in the Inland Empire Meet Author, Artist and Falconer, Rebecca K. O’Connor via zoom on Tuesday, June 15th at 10:00 am when she discusses her books and artistic animal renderings. The author of over a dozen traditionally published books as well as a few self- published books also available to her readers, Ms O’Connor frequently writes about nature, including how Inland Empire open space and animal habitats are being swallowed by development. She admits, “Even when I write fiction, animals seem to weasel their way into it.” An avid Falconer since childhood, she wrote a memoir about her own falconry experiences while earning her MFA in creative writing at UC Riverside. Her mission statement sums up her art and writings. “In every aspect of my work, I will strive to help people understand their connections to the wilder world, its animals (including other people) and to celebrate it.” The Friends of the Murrieta Library invite you to join them on zoom for this interesting presentation at 10 am. Sit back and relax with your morning coffee in the comfort of your own home. Please visit the Friends’ Website at www.murrietalibraryfriends.org for instructions to log on to the zoom meeting. (Please log in 10-15 minutes before the start of the meeting to avoid delay). For questions, please call Rita Nastri at 698-8640.

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Lake Village in Temecula Now Certified as a Wildlife Habitat

The Lake Village Community Association Board of Directors proudly announces that Lake Village has been Certified by the National Wildlife Federation as a Wildlife Habitat. Lake Village is one of the earliest home developments located in Temecula having been incorporated in 1969. It is also one of only two communities located in Temecula with fresh water lakes nestled alongside an assortment of mature deciduous and evergreen trees. Residents have long enjoyed its community's surroundings that includes giant eucalyptus, the Bishop Pine, Coulter, the ever-popular Olive tree, the flowering Jacaranda and California Sycamore. These trees have served to improve the area's air quality, lower air temperatures and humidity, helped to conserve water, preserve the soil, and support a variety of wildlife. To qualify for this certification, the Association needed to confirm it provided the required number of elements for each of the following: Food and Water (native plants and feeders), Cover (places to shelter, hide, or hunt), Places to Raise Young (reproduce, protect and nourish their young), and Sustainable Practices (ensure soil, air, and water stay healthy and clean). "Creating a wildlife habitat garden to attract birds, butterflies, and other neighborhood wildlife is fun, rewarding, and makes a big difference in our life", says Association Board Member, Erin Andrade. "The importance of becoming a wildlife habitat is doing our part in offsetting the rapid and large-scale changes to our lands and waters. Every habitat garden is a step toward replenishing resources for wildlife such as bees, butterflies, birds, and amphibians—both locally and along migratory corridors. We were so fortunate to have the assistance of Jane Payne of the Temecula Valley Garden Club. Jane provided our project team with extremely important assistance on this project." Lake Village offers the perfect scenario for a variety of species such as the Bell’s Sage Sparrow, Black-throated Sparrow and, the small, sandy colored Bur-

rowing Owl with its bright-yellow eyes. Residents are often serenaded by the Yellow-breasted Chat with its bizarre series of hoots, whistles, and clucks. The Wren, Grasshopper Sparrow, Gray Vireo, Loggerhead Shrike, Northern Harrier and the Nuttall’s Woodpecker will now be assured their Lake Village Wildlife Habitat remains a welcoming, safe sanctuary for years to come. The two lakes are home to the Mandarin Duck, Cayuga, American Coot, American Wigeon and the California Gull. On a good day, the majestic, white feathered Giant Egret can be seen soaring over the waters or prancing along the water's shore. Lake Village is home to the Belding ground squirrel, Northern raccoon, Stripe (Mephitis) skunk, and Virginia opossum. The Wildlife Habitat Certification reflects greatly on the Association's commitment to protect and preserve its beautiful plants, animals, waterfowl, birds, and aquatic species. To learn more of this Certification contact, Lake Village Community Association, Communication Committee Chair, Kenneth Dodd at 951-541-4840.

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JUNE 2021

Ideas for Home

Five Landscaping Ideas for Upgrading a Small Backyard From vertical gardens to fire pits, landscaping experts share their best recommendations. By Caroline Biggs

No matter how small your backyard may be, it's still brimming with landscape design potential. "In a smaller backyard every square foot counts," says landscape architect Edmund Hollander of Hollander Design. "Think of how you may want to use it, live in it, and look at it—al fresco dinners or sitting around a fire pit can be magical experiences." While mapping out a small backyard can be tricky, Keith Williams of Nievera Williams says with the right furnishings, it's actually a breeze. "The biggest obstacle is making a small backyard seem big, which can be achieved with appropriately scaled items," he explains. He also says to be careful not to go overboard with plants in a petite garden, because they'll further cramp the area. "A clean, less contrived garden can give an illusion and make the space feel larger." But that's not the only way to make the most of your outdoor space.

Photo courtesy: Getty / Carol Yepes

Try paving stones. Your lawn is teeming with design opportunity—you just need a few paving stones for structure. "Lay paving stones diagonally to make the space seem larger," Emery says. "Paving stones come in a variety of colors, patterns, and styles that will allow you to create a custom backyard space that is easy to maintain and will last for years to come."

Consider a portable fire pit. According to Mike Montgomery, the host of Modern Builds on Smart. Healthy. Green. Living., no outdoor space is complete without a fire pit. "Fire pits function as a great focal point in a backyard space and extend the backyard enjoyment into the evening hours and even into the cooler days of fall," he explains. For smaller backyards, he recommends either buying or DIY-ing your own portable option, since they're compact and easy to move around. Add statement décor. A little décor goes a long way in a small backyard, which is why Emery suggests incorporating functional accessories that also make a statement. "Hang LED string lights so you can continue enjoying your backyard well into the evening, or even a small water feature, like a fountain, that can provide a calming element," she says. For more helpful articles for updating and decorating your home: www.marthastewart.com

Think vertically. Whether you're decorating a bedroom or a backyard, it pays to take advantage of vertical space when you aren't working with a ton of square footage. "A raised garden bed is a great way to use vertical space and grow vegetables," says Kathryn Emery of Be The Best Home. "Elevated raised garden beds are a fantastic option for small patios or decks, and require even less bending or squatting to tend to your garden." Attract birds to your backyard. Looking for a foolproof way to turn a sliver of outdoor space into an enchanting garden? Josh Sevick, president of The Grounds Guys, recommends employing plants and décor that will attract migratory birds to your yard. "Perennial plantings, combined with bird feeders and water baths, can attract hummingbirds, red birds, blue birds and many others to a small backyard," he says.

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JUNE 2021

EST. 1859

2021 Summer Concerts Series Live and In-Person Temecula’s Summer Concert Series is back, live and in-person! This Summer’s Series begins on THU, JUN, 10, 2021 and will run through THU, AUG, 26, 2021. We have a great line-up of local bands, so please join the City of Temecula Community Services Department on Thursdays at 7:00 pm at the Temecula Amphitheater (30875 Rancho Vista Road) for eleven outdoor concerts.

New Student Art Mural in Sam Hicks Monument Park Celebrating Japan’s Children’s Day and Asian Pacific Heritage Month

OLD TOWN TEMECULA

New This Year: Pre-Registration Required Please note there is a $5 fee per registration which includes parties up to eight people. Visit TemeculaCA.gov/SummerConcerts to see the entire summer concert schedule, registration requirements, and COVID guidelines. Guidelines & fees are subject to change. Seating is limited. Some concerts will be recorded live and later posted on Facebook @TemeculaParksAndRec. Don’t forget your blankets, lawn chairs, and snacks. Remember there is no smoking, alcohol, or pets allowed in Temecula’s Amphitheater. It is sure to be a rockin’ good time for all and just another way to show #TemeculaCares! Temecula Mayor Maryann Edwards said, “While we provided all our Summer concerts in a virtual setting in 2020, we are very happy to return responsibly to hosting live, in-person concerts in 2021. Although the look may be a little different at these outdoor concerts, our main focus is to provide our residents and visitors with a safe and memorable experience demonstrating to our community how much Temecula Cares.” Summer Concert Series Schedule for June 2021: THU, JUN 10 @ 7:00 pm Stone Soul THU, JUN 17 @ 7:00 pm 80Z Allstars THU, JUN 24 @ 7:00 pm Kanan Road Please stay tuned for more information by following @TemeculaParksAndRec on social media, and by visiting TemeculaCA.gov regularly for new update

The City of Temecula, Community Services Department, Temecula Valley Unified School District, and the Temecula Valley Museum announce a new, Student Art Mural in Sam Hicks Monument Park (28300 Mercedes Street). This temporary public art piece celebrates Japan’s Children’s Day, in honor of Temecula’s Sister City DaisenNakayama, Japan and in celebration of Asian Pacific Heritage Month in May. Painted by Great Oak High School student, Ly Bucci, and UC Irvine student Amanda Le, the artists wanted to incorporate their memories of celebrating Japan’s Children’s Day in Old Town Temecula, including Koinobori (carp streamers) and origami. They also wanted to represent the connection between the two sister cities, Temecula and Daisen, by showcasing the Tori Gate at the Temecula Duck Pond, and the iconic Mt. Daisen in Japan. This specific mural can be viewed through early June. The museum will also celebrate Asian Pacific Heritage Month with its monthly Second Saturday At Home Cultural Celebration. The museum will travel virtually to celebrate the country of Japan in the month of April. Visitors can experience the beautiful country and culture of Japan through activities including crafts, cultural facts, recipes and amazing virtual tours found at TemeculaValleyMuseum.org. For more information, please call (951) 694-6450.

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JUNE 2021

Kids

Local Teens Won Golf's 8th Annual Corey Pavin Invitational Elina Kuang, a freshman at Murrieta Mesa High School, was the top girl at the invitational. Carlsbad's Kasper Verwers, 15, was even to take first place on the boy's side, besting second-place finisher Connor Williams of Escondido, who was 1 over par. The tournament was held May 1-2 at the Jack Nicklaus-designed Bear Creek Golf Course in Murrieta.

Just 4 Kids Fishing Derby Saturday, June 5th the City is partnering with William's Bait and Tackle and RIVCO Parks to host the annual Just 4 Kids Fishing Derby. This event will be from 7:30 am to 10:30 am at Launch Pointe, 32040 Riverside Dr. Lake Elsinore. Kids ages 15 years and younger are invited to fish for prizes. Participants are required to bring their own rod, reel, and tackle. Free to participate - Spots are limited Register: https://secure.rec1.com/CA/lake-elsinore/ For more information call 951-674-3124 ext 292

Sing Disney Movies Summer Day Camp Guess what!!!! Summer camp is around the corner. Can you believe it? We are getting back to what makes us really happy. CYT!!! Who doesn’t love a Disney movie song? We all do, so let’s get ready to perform some of the old favorites as well as new movie songs we just love. We will be exploring the Disney movies: starting with Snow White and ending with Raya and the Last Dragon. There will be singing, dancing acting and games galore… and, oh yes there will be water!!!! For the camp finale, students perform in a showcase that they have rehearsed over the course of their fun-filled week. Parents are invited to come (limited capacity based on Covid19 protocols) free of charge! The camp showcase is a celebration of the week’s work and gives kids a glimpse into the energy and excitement of being part of a full CYT production. Sign up now so you don’t miss the fun!!!!! Can’t wait to see you at Sing Disney Movies Summer Day Camp. To Register: cytriverside.org Summer 2021 Camp Location: 24750 Lincoln Avenue, Murrieta, CA 92562 Time: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm, Monday - Friday Starts: June 28 for Ages: 5-11 Tuition: $210.00

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Kids

Summer Stem Camps

Summer Steam Camps

Lake Elsinore (In-Person)

in Murrieta (In-Person)

These Camps are Scheduled for Summer 2021 and will be located at: The Outlets at Lake Elsinore 17600 Collier Ave #G-168, Lake Elsinore. Contact socal@includEDucation.com with any questions.

June 12 Summer Celebration Saturday 10:00-3:00 pm Ages 3-7 Students will celebrate the end of a turbulent school and the beginning of an awesome Summer Focus on arts & crafts, LEGO Engineering, and games. Your child should be able to use the restroom unassisted or attend with an older sibling who can help if needed. Price $60.00 Ages 8-14 Students will celebrate the end of a turbulent school and the beginning of an awesome Summer. Focus on Robotics, Science Experiments, and games.Price $60.00 Ages 13-17 Students will celebrate the end of a turbulent school and the beginning of an awesome Summer.Focus on learning to use Photoshop to edit images and digital photographs. Price $60.00

June 21-25 Summer Camp Monday - Friday STEM Creators Club 9:00-11:30 am Grades TK-2 Students will explore the concepts of building and construction through hands-on exploration and design. Students explore the science behind cars, planes, rockets, and more in this fun and engaging experience. Students will be bringing projects home all week. Price $140.00 Mad Scientists 12:00-2:30 pm Grades TK-2 This camp provides a project-based approach to learning about science. Students will marvel at the chemical reactions between bases and acids, solids and liquids, pH levels, and conduct cool experiments while learning about the importance of safety. We will also learn about concepts such as buoyancy, heat transfer, engineering, and electricity. This camp is full of exciting experiments and projects. Let’s get crazy with science! Price $140.00 Stay All Day Combined Camp 9:00-2:30 Grades TK-2 or Grades 3-8 Choose this option to attend BOTH of the above sessions for a discount. Bring a lunch join in all the fun. Price $250.00 Graphic Design 12:00-2:30 pm Grades 3-8 Students will walk through the visual art of design and design elements. Students will learn about drafting artwork, creating vectors, layering, typography, and detailing with a variety of projects. The goal will be clean, crisp artwork fit for any sticker or website! Price $140.00

Located at: The Gryphon Fencing Academy 24837 Jefferson Ave Suite 201, Murrieta, CA 92562 Please contact socal@includEDucation.com with any questions. Information: https://includeducation.com/upcoming-events/ for the program you desire. June 28 - July 1 Mon-Thurs 9:00 - 3:00 pm STEAM Camp Grades TK-2 or ages 3-8 Students will delight in experiencing a combination of STEAM activities, including: Art, Hands-On Science. Engineering, Drama and More! Price $275.00

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theGoodnews

9 “You parents—if your children ask for a loaf of bread, do you give them a stone instead? 10 Or if they ask for a fish, do you give them a snake? Of course not! 11 So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father ~ Matthew 7:9-11 NLT give good gifts to those who ask him.

What Makes a Good Dad? By Max Lucado

Dear God, Thanks for giving me a daddy. You knew just what I’d need! In case you need to make daddies for other kids, I thought you might like to know what I like best about the one you sent me: A good dad … 1. knows everything (like how to tie shoes and drive a car) 2.

is really smart (he even knows where the wind goes after it blows through the trees)

has a forgiving heart (for when I mess up)

is loaded with patience, patience, patience (he probably won’t need it, but just in case…)

has a comfy lap and a big laugh (you understand about that, don’t you?)

tells me all about you and your son. Your friend, A Kid

P.S. I almost left out the best part! A good dad has real strong arms (to catch me when I fall. He says you’re just like that, too).

A Good Dad Makes Godly Decisions The Lord made an agreement with Jacob and gave the teachings to Israel, which he commanded our ancestors to teach to their children. Then their children would know them, even their children not yet born. And they would tell their children. So they would all trust God and would not forget what he had done but would obey his commands. (Psalm 78:5-7) Here’s a Lucado hunch about parenting: fathers and mothers enter the childrearing business at two different times. Mothers decide to be mothers long before dads do. A mother carries a baby for nine months, giving her an opportunity to grow content with her decision to parent the new family member. Dad, however, goes about his daily routine, pretty much unaffected by what’s going on inside the womb. Oh, he’s supportive and excited, but compared to Mom, he’s an observer. Until delivery time. Then Dad’s world takes on new meaning. He looks into the face of the new life and is faced with the realization: “I’m the father of this child.” You might call it a “delivery room discovery.” At this point a good dad makes a big decision. He has to decide to become a father. And that decision sets up dominoes of decisions he will make for the rest of his life. It’s a rational choice to alter his life, schedule, direction, and priorities in order to be a good dad to the tiny life in his arms. Fathering a child is, for many, not difficult. But being a father is! It’s the first and most important decision of fathers: to make a conscientious choice to be a father. The decision to be a father is not just a delivery room decision, though. It is a daily decision. A century ago, dads were on-site parents, working the farm or running the family store. Children spent a great deal of their time alongside their parents, working together. But in our modern culture, employment distances most dads from their kids. Some dads leave home before the children are awake. Others arrive home long after the kids are home from school. Consequently, it is possible, even common, for a father to forget about fathering—to emotionally disconnect himself from his children. Throughout the day, every day, dads need to renew their “dad” decision. “Will I attend this convention?” “Is this meeting essential?” “Can I rearrange these appointments to get home earlier?” On the way home from work, dads have to decide to take off the work hat and put on the “dad” hat. It’s a decision to manage his time, carefully reconciling work with the priority of family. Being a good dad means making tough, sacrificial decisions. Decisions that tell our children what is important to us. In his book, Achieving Success Without Failing Your Family, Paul Faulkner describes the decisions of an insurance executive. Speaking at a businessmen’s convention, the man stressed the importance of being a father first. The man’s daughter was in the audience. …in the middle of his talk he had turned to her and asked, “Sweetheart, do you remember the time I won the million-dollar roundtable three years in a row?” And she said, “No, Dad, I don’t guess I do.” And then he turned to the audience to make the point that daughters don‘t remember when you sell a million dollars worth of insurance, but they do remember your special dates.1 Not only must dads decide to be involved with their kids, available and interested in what interests them, but dads must decide what kind of role models they’ll be. What an incredible privilege: the task of molding and shaping little children. Kids have a unique set of antennae—not only are they able to see much and hear more, they replay the behavior they see in their parents.

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JUNE 2021

theGoodnews Paul Harvey tells a story that’s a good example of this point: Our “For What It’s Worth Department” knows that when Grey Baker goes golfing in Jackson, Mississippi—he has taken his three-year-old grandson Trevor along as a companion… The boy has been learning the game by watching. Last week Grandpa Baker brought the lad a set of play golf clubs of his own. This past weekend—during a family cookout in the backyard—the little lad who’d learned golf by observing Grandpa announced, “Watch me!” And he said a no-no word and threw his golf club up into the pear tree.2 Of all the fathers in the Bible, one stands out for his decision to be a godly father. He consciously decided to be an adoptive father to his orphaned cousin, Esther. He could be called the father of courage, because he instilled this trait in his daughter. Do you remember the story? The small book of Esther reveals the story of the beautiful Jewish girl whose clever courage saved her people. Mordecai raised his daughter to take a stand at the right time, to do the right thing. Because of her beauty, Esther becomes Queen of Persia. Mordecai wisely advises her to conceal her heritage from King Xerxes. When Mordecai refuses

The Father’s Answer By Joni Eareckson

"From his temple he heard my voice; my cry came before him, into his ears. The earth trembled and quaked, and the foundations of the mountains shook...he parted the heavens and came down...he reached down from on high and took hold of me; he drew me out of deep waters." Psalm 18:6-7,9,16 Pain stirs the heart of a father like nothing else. My friend, Jim, knows all about this. He often has to leave his three little boys when he flies away on business. On a recent trip, as the family drove together to the airport, the seven-year-old gladly took last-minute instructions on "how to help Mommy" while Daddy was away. The five-year-old bravely tucked in his chin and promised he would do his chores. As they turned into the airport, the two-year-old, all smiles and jabber up until then, spotted an airplane on the runway. Suddenly, wailing and sobbing! "It tore my heart out," Jim exclaimed, "I almost canceled the trip right then. I just kept hugging that little boy." As I saw his eyes well up with tears, I thought, If that boy's cries tug at Jim's heart, how much more must our tears move our heavenly Father. Nothing grips God's heart like the tortured cry of one of His children. Watch what takes place in Psalm 18 after David says, "I cried to my God for help." God is roused. The earth trembles, mountains shake, heavens are parted and He reaches down. Our questions and cries powerfully move the Almighty. He parts heaven and shakes earth to respond. He reaches down. He takes hold. Jesus is God's embrace, His way of reaching down and taking hold. Can God the Father turn a deaf ear to the plea of His Son on the cross? (If Jim can't, you bet God can't). The answer resounds from an empty tomb three days later: The earth trembled, the mountains shook and God rescued His Son. And because the Father raised Jesus, there is hope for us all. Jesus felt God's slap so that we could feel God's caress. He is our Father. He hears our cry! Oh, thank you, Lord, for hearing my cry. Bless You for coming to my rescue. Taken from More Precious Than Silver. Printed with permission Joni and Friends Disability Center.

For just as the Father gives life to those he raises from the dead, ~John 5:21 NLT so the Son gives life to anyone he wants.

to bow down to the king’s officer, Haman, he places himself in jeopardy because of his convictions. He would bow before no one other than Jehovah. As a result, Haman conspires to destroy not only Mordecai, but all the Jews as well. Mordecai urges Esther to appeal to the king on behalf of their people. “… you may have been chosen queen for such a time as this.” (Esther 4:14) Esther must have trusted Mordecai greatly, for she determines to stand before the king for her people. “And if I die, I die.” (Esther 4:16) Words of faith, words of courage. Words that a daughter could say because she was raised by a father who made the right decisions. Remember this: a crisis does not develop character; a crisis reveals character. The character Esther reveals must have been learned from observing her father’s character. As the plot twists and turns, Mordecai and the Jewish nation are saved and Haman is executed. Usually, when we study the story of Esther, we see her strength and devotion to her people. But God used someone else in this story to accomplish his purpose. God used a faithful father—a father who impressed a young daughter to have courage in her convictions. At the right time, Esther did the right thing, because she had been raised by a godly father. A father who knew that the decisions he would make as his daughter grew would help her learn to make godly decisions later in life. 1

Paul Faulkner, Achieving Success Without Failing Your Family, 1994, West Monroe, LA, Howard Publishing Co., pp. 143-144. 2 Paul Harvey, Jr., ed., Paul Harvey’s for What It’s Worth, 1991, New York: Bantam Books, p. 121. 2

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Animal Friends of the Valley

PETS

PETS for Adoption Pets

Retrievers and Friends Cinnamon (#588726) is a 7-year-old Husky mix who loves to be vocal and get belly rubs. She is housebroken, easy to walk, and very friendly with people. She is a big girl and will need grooming regularly, however she seems to do great with grooming!

Rolli (#526566) is a handsome 3and-a-half-year-old Mastiff/Pit Bull mix. He has a gentle personality and adores affection from people. He is a bit shy and timid at first, but warms up quickly! This boy does well with walking and overall has a mellow attitude. For more information or to see more pets who need a home go to: www.animalfriendsofthevalleys.com

Sheeba is a stunning 4 yr. old black German Shepherd. She has an excellent temperament/personality and is very intelligent. She walks well on a leash, is friendly with everyone she meets, and wants to please. She is also house trained and crate trained.

Peanut is a precious, 8-year-old Chihuahua Rat Terrier mix. She is very well behaved and a loving little dog. She is house trained and walks on a leash. Peanut would be a wonderful companion for a senior.

Gypsy is a 4-1/2month-old Aussie mix. She is friendly, active, likes to play with other dogs and is learning to walk on a leash.

Jaxon is a 5-year-old Standard Poodle. He is friendly and has learned to walk on a leash at the rescue. He is good for the groomer.

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

Calling All Fur Family and Friends Animal Friends of the Valleys need supplies!! • Wet Kitten & Adult Food Fancy Feast or Friskies • Cat Litter – Tidy Cat Skoopable Packages are accepted from Amazon Smile, Chewy or Walmart. Thank-you for you help! 33751 Mission Trail, Wildomar animalfriendsofthevalleys.com

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JDS Offers Extracurricular Activities to Raise the Awareness of the Arts Although a rigorous academic program is important to a child’s education, stimulating the mind outside the classroom is just as powerful. Challenging children to think “outside the box” and engage different parts of the brain ultimately leads to critical thinking and the ability to uniquely problem solve; however, the importance behind extracurricular activities that engage these parts of the mind like acting, musical theater, and fashion design, are commonly under-appreciated. To encourage those to live life outside the classroom and raise awareness of the arts, JDS Creative Academy (JDSCA) has structured certain classes to meet the 4th – 12th grade California Education Code for Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA). The Creative Academy uses the STEAM model of education and demonstrates the value of the Arts through their successful job training program, summer camp and creative classes offered throughout the year. Temecula’s Unified School District CTE Program recognizes the value in JDS Creative Academy STEAM model of education as their production programs from all three high schools’ partner with the non-profit to provide hands-on learning and internship opportunities to their Capstone CTE high school population. JDSCA believes that extracurricular activities enhance one’s academic performance and creates broader opportunities. These opportunities are proven through the two-week annual Summer Camp taking place June 14-25, 2021 from 10 A.M. - 4 P.M. JDSCA is happy to announce that classes will be held in person with COVID-19 guidelines and CDC regulations strictly in place. To make sure those guidelines are met, only 10 campers will be accepted into the camp. The concept behind the camp is to let kids be kids while allowing them to gain confidence, provide a social environment, give them a chance to work on their social

skills, all while appreciating the differences of others, as the camp is open to all abilities and experience levels. The camp delves into improv, script writing and backstage production. The concept behind the two-week camp is based off of a classic, fairytale book that has a moral or an intention with the end goal of the students creating their own story with the guidance of industry professionals. JDS Creative Academy welcomes everyone, age 10+, with an interest in writing and/or theater. You might be thinking, my kid isn’t an aspiring Hollywood actor, nor are they a skilled writer, why would I sign them up? Students, regardless of their experience level, will leave with a little more confidence, a better understanding of teamwork, collaboration and the theatrical industry which is an asset to anyone. In addition, performing arts has several mental health benefits for everyone. The stage teaches self-confidence, communication, speech, reading and even literature. Behind-the-scenes teaches engineering, technology, and logistics. Extracurricular activities give students the chance to gain essential life skills far beyond their adolescent years. For example, more and more universities are only accepting those who show extracurricular experience because they want to see longevity, passion and leadership. JDS Creative Academy classes prove just that. No matter your talents, each of us is born with a desire to express. Art assists this desire and encompasses a much wider range of opportunities than one might think! Sign up today at www.jdscreativeacademy.org and for more information, call 951-296-6715.

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Tomahawk Rib Eye – Perfect for Dad If there's a steak that resembles caveman food, it is the tomahawk rib-eye. Also called a cowboy steak, the tomahawk is a bonein rib-eye that weighs between 30 and 45 ounces. It is nearly 2 inches thick and includes a long bone; this signature "handle" led to the steak's name. This is a large steak that can feed two people, and it can easily be prepared at home. While a tomahawk steak is one of the more expensive pieces of meat available, it's worth the price. The rib-eye includes some of the most flavorful and tender beef, and the cut is sure to make a big impression. The tomahawk steak is best pan seared and then finished in the oven. Just before the steak rests, it is basted with butter, roasted garlic, and fresh thyme to result in a juicy, flavorful, and tender piece of meat. Serve it with a full-bodied red wine like cabernet sauvignon and a veggie side, and recreate this classic steakhouse splurge for a fraction of the cost.

Ingredients • 1 tomahawk rib-eye steak from Naughty Pig Butchery, about 1 3/4 inches thick • Kosher salt, to taste • Freshly ground pepper, to taste • 1 small head garlic • 2 tablespoons oil, plus more for drizzling (canola or grapeseed) • 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter • 4 large sprigs fresh thyme

Meanwhile, prepare the garlic. Trim off the top 1/4 inch of the garlic bulb. Drizzle with the oil and add a pinch of salt, then wrap in a foil tent, and roast the garlic for 30 minutes, until the cloves are soft. Remove from the oven and allow to cool. Increase the oven temperature to 425 F.

Optional: Moisten a paper towel and wrap it around the steak's rib bone, then wrap aluminum foil around the paper towel.

In a large heavy-duty skillet (preferably cast-iron), heat the 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat until it's just starting to smoke. Lay the tomahawk steak into the skillet and sear for 3 minutes without touching it. (Step back a bit since it will smoke and spatter.)

Using tongs and the bone as a handle, turn the steak over and cook for another 3 minutes without touching it. Using tongs and the bone as a handle, sear the short side of the steak opposite the bone, about 1 minute.

Transfer the steak to a rimmed baking sheet and place in the oven, roasting 9 to 10 minutes, or until the desired doneness is reached. Alternatively, you can put the steak on a rack fitted into a baking sheet, which will allow air to flow evenly around the steak in the oven, thereby cooking the steak uniformly on both sides.

Use an instant-read thermometer to measure the steak's internal temperature― 125 F for rare, 135 F for medium-rare, or 145 F for medium. The meat will continue to cook while it rests and increase by 5 to 10 degrees, so take that into account when pulling your steak out of the oven.

• Use peanut, canola, or grapeseed oil for this recipe. Not olive oil. Since olive oil has a low smoke point, it will smoke too much and may impart a burnt flavor to the meat.

Cooking Directions 1.

Gather the ingredients. Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 350 F.

Pat the tomahawk steak dry with paper towels.

Season very liberally with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper. Let the steak come to room temperature.

10. While the steak is cooking, add the butter to the skillet and melt over low heat. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves into the butter, stirring with a wooden spoon to distribute, then add the thyme sprigs and continue to cook, about 2 minutes. 11. When the steak is ready, take it out of the oven, and transfer it back into the skillet. Use a spoon to baste the butter and garlic over the steak. Turn the steak, and baste again, about 1 minute total. Transfer the steak to a cutting board, tent it with foil, and let it rest 10 minutes. 12. If you've wrapped the bone in the optional paper towel and foil, remove it now. 13. Carve the steak against the grain then drizzle with more of the butter and garlic. Or, if the steak is for one person, simply spoon the butter and garlic over the steak. Serve and enjoy. Chef Daniel’s note: Use peanut, canola, or grapeseed oil for this recipe. Not olive oil. Since olive oil has a low smoke point, it will smoke too much and may impart a burnt flavor to the meat.

JUNE 2021

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Family

Temecula Olive Oil Company Ranch Tours

Temecula Olive Oil Company opens their ranch for tours. Enjoy an educational 90 minute guided tour through the olive groves learning about regenerative agriculture, growing olives, harvest techniques, milling and cold-pressing along with a tasting of our delicious current harvest fresh-squeezed extra virgin olive oils and small batch balsamico vinegars. Ranch tours are typically offered on the second & fourth Sundays of each month. Tours start promptly at 10:00 am and will last approximately 90 minutes. The cost is $20.00 per person, admission for children 12 & under is complimentary, but requires a reservation. If you plan on bringing children 12 and under, please contact our customer service department at 866-654-8396 to reserve their place on the tour. To check dates & reserve your ranch tours go to www.temeculaoliveoil.com Ranch Address: 46780 Hwy 371, Aguanga, CA 92536 Directions: Take Interstate-15 North from San Diego or Interstate-15 South from Orange County to Temecula Parkway/Highway 79 South. Follow for 18 miles east until you reach a stop with a flashing light at Highway 371. Turn left. The Ranch is immediately on your right. Turn right onto the dirt road just before the

Temecula Olive Oil Company sign. Follow the trees to the parking area. The trip takes about 25 minutes from Old Town Temecula and/or Interstate-15. Reminder:(GPS devices are not recommended for finding the ranch by its street address as it will send you about 2 miles too far).

Local Farmers Markets Murrieta Village Walk Plaza Certified Farmers' Market 24480 Village Walk Pl., off Kalmia/California Oaks Exit Sundays from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm Fresh fruits, veggies, flowers, gourmet food & handcrafted items!

Historic Murrieta Farmers Market Washington Avenue South of Kalmia Thursday Evening beginning at 4:00 pm Vendors, Farmers, Street Entertainment

Temecula Promenade Certified Farmers Market Wednesday: 9:00 am - 1:00 pm 65 vendors with California certified farmers, specialty foods and artisans. Rain or shine!

Canyon Lake Certified Farmers Market Canyon Lake Town Center 31516 Railroad Canyon Road, Canyon Lake, CA 92587 Every Sunday: 9:00 am - 1:00 pm

Perris Valley Farmers Market American Legion – 600 S. D Street Every other Saturday from 8:00 am - 2:00 pm June 12 – Theme – Discounts for High School Seniors June 26 – Theme – Shop Local

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JUNE 2021

Family

Celebrating Dads on Father’s Day By Traci L. Williams

Dads are an important part of our family structure and community. While we might not think of flowers and chocolate when we think of Father’s Day, dads do deserve to be celebrated and acknowledged for their contribution and hard work. What can you do for dads in your circle? Do you know a single dad? Maybe you can help the children plan a special treat or an outdoor adventure of hiking or throwing the ball at the park. What about helping them pack a picnic lunch or yummy snacks? Here are some additional ways to celebrate dads this Father’s Day:

• • • • •

Homemade cards Handmade certificates for fun throughout the year Sweet treats Favorite meal or BBQ Breakfast in bed

Moms, what can you do to support your kids in celebrating dad, even if you’re not together anymore? It’s a beautiful gift when children are able to love both parents freely. What a great opportunity to show kids how to be kind and give to others, even when it’s hard. Happy Father’s Day to our many wonderful dads! Thank you for everything you do! May you create memories that will be treasured for years to come.

LIVE SUMMER ORCHESTRA CLASSES BEGIN Monday, June 7 from 6:30 - 8:00 pm in Murrieta. Call 951-587-1536 for more info or send email to tvsinfo@temeculavalleysymphony.org Conductor - Dr. Sylvia Lee Mann Accepting students, intermediate to advanced.

Traci L. Williams is the Owner of A Loving Way to Parent. She is known for her practical and intuitive parenting style and can be reached at 951-240-1407 (www.alovingway.com).

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JUNE 2021

MSJC Honors Students Earn Competitive Scholarships Two Mt. San Jacinto College (MSJC) honors students have earned 2021 Honors Transfer Council of California (HTCC) Exemplary Achievement Scholarships. On March 26 and 27, five MSJC students participated in the 2021 UC Irvine Community College Honors Research Conference, where they had an opportunity to share their research from Honors classes at MSJC. Students Christian Dave of Temecula and Haylie Wilcox of Murrieta were among a group of students from across California who were awarded the 2021 HTCC Exemplary Achievement Scholarships. Such scholars must be nominated by the Honors directors at their college and are expected to demonstrate in an essay how participation in Honors has affected their education by helping to overcome challenges or create opportunities for them to be recognized as campus and community leaders. In their essays, both students mentioned how being a member of the Honors En-

Mt. San Jacinto College Celebrated a Record-Breaking Class with Drive-Through and Virtual Graduation Ceremony on May 27 Mt. San Jacinto College (MSJC) celebrated its largest graduating class in its nearly 60-year history on May 27 when it held a drive-through graduation celebration and a virtual graduation ceremony for the Class of 2021. MSJC awarded a recordbreaking 3,730 degrees and certificates to 2,091 graduates. That’s 133 more graduates than last year, when the previous record was set. The graduates will earn a total of 3,190 associate degrees and 540 career certificates, as some students earn more than one degree, certificate or a combination. The graduation theme is "Today's Resiliency is Tomorrow's Hope."

Mt. San Jacinto College (MSJC) honors students Christian Dave and Haylie Wilcox have earned 2021 Honors Transfer Council of California (HTCC) Exemplary Achievement Scholarships. CREDIT: Courtesy of Mt. San Jacinto College

richment Program at MSJC gave them a stronger connection to the college, other students, and staff, and allowed them to get much more out of their college experience than they anticipated. On May 27, both students graduated from Mt. San Jacinto College. Dave will earn associate degrees in Liberal Arts-Mathematics & Science; and Liberal Arts-Social & Behavioral Sciences. Wilcox will earn an associate degree in Liberal Arts-Mathematics & Science and will earn an Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum Breadth to transfer to UC Davis to major in Biological Sciences.

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Perris Auto Speedway Updated 2021 Schedule Perris Auto Speedway promoter Don Kazarian has announced the following changes to the 2021 racing schedule. “The July 4th Night of Destruction has been moved to Saturday, July 3rd.” Several July dates have been cancelled while races have been added to the September 2021 calendar. “Without knowing for certain what seating capacity we will be able to accommodate, it makes it a very tough choice with all the planning that goes into this event. The prudent decision is to move this event and allow all of the participants and spectators to enjoy the 4th of July and hopefully participate in a fireworks celebration at another location.”

• July 10 - PASSCAR SERIES - Super Stocks, Street Stocks, American Factory Stocks And IMCA Modifieds

• July 17 - AMSOIL USAC/CRA SPRINT CARS, PAS Senior Sprints And RUSH Western Sprint Car Series

• July 24 - PASSCAR SERIES - Super Stocks, Street Stocks, American Factory Stocks And IMCA Modifieds

• July 31 - LKQ Pick Your Part Presents NIGHT OF DESTRUCTION IV - Demo Cross, Figure 8's, Trailer Figure 8's, Mini Stocks And Double Deckers

• August 14 - PASSCAR SERIES - Super Stocks, Street Stocks, American Factory Stocks And IMCA Modifieds

• August 21t - CALIFORNIA RACERS HALL OF FAME NIGHT" AMSOIL USAC/CRA SPRINT CARS, PAS Senior Sprints And RUSH Western Sprint Car Series

• August 28 - LKQ Pick Your Part Presents NIGHT OF DESTRUCTION V – Demo Cross, Figure 8's, Trailer Figure 8's, Mini Stocks And Double Deckers

FOR THE FULL UPDATED 2021 SCHEDULE GO TO: Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/pages/Perris-Auto-Speedway/113876798686480?ref=hl

Twitter: Perris Auto Speedway on Twitter. “With the Covid testing site and the carnival equipment parked on the north side of the fairgrounds, we cannot access the normal camping area for the foreseeable future,” the longtime promoter stated regarding the cancelation of the July 16th race. Online tickets for 2021 Perris Auto Speedway races are on sale at https://www.tix.com/ticket-sales/pas/7. Fans will be able to purchase tickets online at the above tix link up until 7:00 p.m. each race night. The entire 2021 schedule is available at the bottom of this release. Perris Auto Speedway is conveniently located on the SoCal Fair and Event Center (home of October’s Southern California Fair), approximately one-hour east of Los Angeles and one-hour North of San Diego. To get to the track, take the 215 freeway, on the Ramona Expressway and go three miles east to the fairgrounds. For directions on MapQuest, the address to enter is: 18700 Lake Perris Drive and the zip code is 92571. ideo and DVD productions of all racing sprint cars events at Perris Auto Speedway are available from Loudpedal Productions. For more information on these productions you can contact them by calling (805) 844-3854, E-mailing mailto:trtruex@gmail.com or you can visit the website LoudPedalProductions.

2021 EVENT SCHEDULE FOR SECOND QUARTER • June 5 - LKQ Pick Your Part Presents NIGHT OF DESTRUCTION II - Demo Cross, Figure 8's, Trailer Figure 8's, Mini Stocks and Double Deckers

• June 12 - PASSCAR SERIES - Super Stocks, Street Stocks, American Factory Stocks And IMCA Modifieds

• June 19 - AMSOIL USAC/CRA SPRINT CARS, PAS Senior Sprints • June 26 - PASSCAR SERIES - Super Stocks, Street Stocks, American Factory Stocks And IMCA Modifieds

• July 3 - LKQ Pick Your Part NIGHT OF DESTRUCTION III Presented By Heimark/Anheuser Busch - Demo Cross, Figure 8's, Trailer Figure 8's, Mini Stocks And Double Deckers

City of Menifee Basketball Camps The camp is for kids ages 5-17 years. Students will learn the basics of the sport, including intangible skills such as sportsmanship which are necessary for success in the sport. Players will learn dribbling, passing, shooting, positioning, offense, defense and threat positions. The positive, non-competitive setting of instructional basketball is ideal for children who want to learn and improve in the sport they love. No previous basketball experience is necessary. Monthly sessions are available. Instructor: Mike Feaster. Fees: $120 (R), $144 (NR) Location: Spirit Park Basketball Courts 25507 Normandy Rd., Menifee Wednesdays | 6-7 pm (5-9 years) | 7:30-8:30 pm (10-17 years)

PAGE 27

JUNE 2021

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PAGE 28

HEALTHYLIFESTYLE

JUNE 2021

Spondylitis . . . The Invisible Disease (continuation) By Belen Diaz de Leon

As I shared last month, at age 14 my son was diagnosed with Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS), a chronic and debilitating autoimmune disorder. With AS, the immune system is working on overdrive - as a result, the body attacks healthy joints which result in pain and stiffness in the joints primarily in the lower back, sacroiliac joints (SI). The SI joints are located on each side of your spine. My son first experienced pain in his heels and knees with morning stiffness in his lower back. Initially, his symptoms were attributed to growing pain but eventually he was referred to the rheumatology department at Rady Children's Hospital. After blood work and an MRI, my son was diagnosed with AS. The morning stiffness and pain are the most common AS symptoms. At times, the pain in the spine and lower back can be so intense that moving and breathing is painful. After about 30 minutes of movement, the pain and stiffness begins to subside. This was also true for me but for many years, I was diagnosed and treated for sciatic nerve problems. For a parent, having a child diagnosed with a chronic disease is devastating. Instead of enjoying his teen and high school years, my son had to focus on trying to learn how to manage chronic pain. In order to control the progression of the disease (which can eventually lead to fusion of the spine (kyphosis)), my son had to learn how to inject himself with his medication. For the past four years, he has been on HUMIRA, a Biologic medication that is composed of live cells. Every 3-4 months, he is seen by his rheumatologist at Children's Hospital. AS is a systemic disease, meaning it can also affect other organs. For this reason, my son is also under the care of a cardiologist and gastroenterologist.

Losing your good health is devastating at any age but at such a young age, it is unimaginable. There is a strong essence of grief when confronting the diagnosis. The diagnosis itself is a confirmation of particular challenges that the person will have to endure. There is freedom in finally having an answer, but the diagnosis certainly suggests new and difficult terrain. Terrain that can feel lonely, frightening, and sometimes even hopeless. No wonder someone can feel the heaviness of grief after receiving such an answer. It feels as if you’ve lost the privilege of a normal life, especially the taken-for-granted privileges that are often overlooked by healthy, “normal” bodies. I apply Kubler Ross stages of grief when describing the emotions that arise after a diagnosis. These stages are not intended to be linear. I like to describe it as a tangled yarn that you slowly try to untangle with hope that it will eventually come undone but sometimes, you end up in the same spot. Yes, we experienced denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. The problem with chronic illness is just when you learn to assimilate a new symptom(s) and adapt to your new normal, a new symptom(s) arises. The disease is unpredictable and you are in a vicious cycle that has no ending. If you go into remission, it can be short lived or last for several years. As a mother, also suffering from a form of the disease, guilt is a common companion. There is a genetic link to AS. There is no single diagnostic blood test that is able to identify the disease however, a high percentage of people who test positive for the HLA-B27 gene develop AS. After testing positive for the gene as well as my son, the guilt began to consume me and the “What if” questions began to surface and haunt me: “What if I would have been diagnosed earlier, could the disease have been prevented?” or “What if my son would have been tested for the gene early on, I could have monitored his overall development and any unusual “growing pains” address with his pediatrician?” The fact is, the disease is not preventable. The key is early intervention. My son thankfully received early intervention, which has slowed down the progression of the disease. Along with the chronic inflammation and pain, fatigue is another unpleasant companion. Fatigue in AS results from the overproduction of cytokines proteins produced by the cells in the immune system. Too many cytokine proteins in the body increase body inflammation which in turn contribute to irreversible joint damage. Medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the first course of medications. If NSAIDs are not effective, the next course of medications are Sulfasalazine, Methotrexate, or Corticosteroids. In severe cases of AS, Biologics such as Humira would be the next course. While our family’s journey with AS has been turbulent, much growth has taken place. It has been a time where we as a family and as individuals have learned from our weaknesses and strengths. We have learned to focus on our strengths to get us through the challenging periods. My desire is to increase awareness and understanding about AS as well as spondylitis. Spondylitis, and specifically, AS, often goes undiagnosed because many doctors are unfamiliar with the disease. Like my son, the symptoms can be attributed to growing pains or seen as a psychosomatic problem. As I addressed in last month's article, spondylitis is the umbrella term used for a group of diseases that cause inflammation. “Spondy” means the vertebrae (bones of the spine) and “itis” meaning inflammation. There are several diseases that fall under the spondylitis umbrella, one being Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS). The better informed and educated we are as parents, the better we can help our children to thrive and live a long and healthy life with any type of chronic illness. This knowledge will also give us strength and hope. A chronic disease is not only physically debilitating but also emotionally and psychologically. To learn more about Spondylitis, please visit the Spondylitis Association of America - Ankylosing Spondylitis. You can also contact me at (951)764-2630, Belen Diaz de Leon.

PAGE 29

JUNE 2021

10 Ways You Should Be Using Vinegar in Your Garden By Aisha Jordan, Lifehacker.com It’s planting season, but before you head to your local garden center for fancy (and expensive) solutions to your gardening problems, consider that you might have some of what you need already in your pantry. One of those things is vinegar. We tend to rave about the endless uses of vinegar in your home, but did you know it can also help keep animals out of your garden? Here are ten ways vinegar can help you grow a healthy and vibrant garden. GET RID OF WEEDS White vinegar is five percent acetic acid, which can penetrate the membranes of plants, killing them from the leaves down. You’ll want to put the vinegar in a spray bottle—no need to dilute it—and spray the weed’s leaves just enough to coat it but not drip down the plant. Cross contamination can harm other plants, so make sure not to spray on a windy or rainy day, and don’t spray a ton. KEEP ANIMALS AWAY Animals tend to hate the smell of vinegar, so use it to keep them out of your garden. Take several old rags, soak them in vinegar, and place them along the perimeter of your garden. The smell will act as an invisible fence keeping rabbits, deer, and raccoons away, and even wards off snakes. You’ll need to re-soak the rags time and again when it rains or after the smell wears off, so set a reminder or make it part of your regular garden upkeep. GET RID OF INSECTS Slugs and snails can slowly devour your plants, but when sprayed with vinegar, snails and slugs’ bodies will dissolve. It’s gross, I know, like when we were kids and someone would pour salt on a slug, but it works. If you’re not keen on watching slugs and snails melt, though, you can keep them and other insects at bay with rags soaked in vinegar. PROMOTE GERMINATION Soaking seeds before planting them can help begin their germination, and vinegar can help. To soak, put the seeds in a small bowl or container and add just enough water to cover without completely submerging them. You can also use a Ziploc bag with enough water to keep the seeds damp. Before covering the bowl of seeds or sealing your Ziploc bag, add one to three tablespoons of vinegar. Let the seeds soak for eight to 12 hours, but no longer than 24. The acidity in the vinegar simulates what happens in an animal’s stomach, which is one way seeds germinate in the wild. The hard shells around the seeds will soften and encourage the seedling to sprout. CLEANING YOUR GARDEN TOOLS You can keep your garden tools clean and functional with just vinegar and water. Pretty straightforward for newer tools—just spray and wipe—but for tools with a bit of rust, soak them overnight in a half water half vinegar solution. In the morning, rub away the rust with steel wool and wash with soapy water. The rust will be gone, and your tools will look a lot closer to new. FEED YOUR FLOWERS We reported that mouthwash helps cut flowers last longer, but vinegar can act as flower food in your garden. For every gallon of water in your watering can, add one cup of vinegar and water your flowers as usual. This natural fertilizer works great for acidic flowers like hydrangeas, rhododendron, gardenias, hollies, and azaleas. TEST YOUR SOILS PH BALANCE Vinegar can help you test the alkaline level of your soil. Start by collecting a sample from your garden and place it in a medium-sized container. Be sure to grab soil from different parts of the garden, though, as they tend to vary. Then add half a cup of water and half a cup of vinegar to the soil. The more fizz you get, the higher the pH balance in your soil, which can help you choose the types of plants that can thrive

there. You can do the same test with baking soda and water to test the acidity of your soil. Neither are very precise, of course, but they’re cheaper and faster than a test kit or sending your soil off to a lab. GET RID OF MILDEW, MOLD AND FUNGHI Vinegar can serve as an antifungal to help save your plants from mildew, mold, and other fungi. Just mix three tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with a gallon of water, and shake it up. Add the solution to a spray bottle to spritz the affected areas. This method also removes black fungi from rose plants. For a lighter smelling option, Chamomile tea can also fight against fuzzy mold and mildew on plants. REMOVE CALCIUM BUILDUP ON GARDEN BRICKS Brick is quite tricky to clean without scraping off a layer of the stone, but vinegar is an easy, natural way to help clean off calcium and lime deposits from garden bricks and dividers. Add one cup of distilled white vinegar to every gallon of water in a bucket, and dip a scrubbing brush to scrub the bricks. Once the area is clean, rinse away the calcium and lime. CLEAN YOUR BIRDBATHS Vinegar is a perfect alternative to regular soap or detergent, which can strip birds’ feathers of essential oils. To make the natural cleaner, mix one-part distilled white vinegar to nine parts water to the birdbath basin. Scrub the bath inside and out with the solution, rinse, and let the bath dry completely. Then just refill and watch your bath attract more birds to your garden. And since birds are natural predators to insects like slugs, snails, and ants, making your birdbath an inviting place for them will give you nature’s security guards to help against bugs.