march / april neighbors newspaper 2021

MARCH/APRIL 2021

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Michelle’s Place Phase 1 is Open After two and half years of construction, a lot of blood, sweat and tears, Michelle’s Place Cancer Resource Center is proud to announce the completion of phase one of their Center. Michelle’s Place purchased their forever home in June of 2018. It was a 10,000 sq. ft. shell of a building. Staff and volunteers moved into one portion of the building while construction started on the other portion.

While under construction, Michelle’s Place continued serving cancer patients, expanded their resources to serve all cancers and launched a massive fundraising campaign to build the regions first cancer resource center.

Phase one includes the completion of a Reiki room, the Creative Space that will house the expressive art class, future cooking classes and other creative events. The new construction also houses staff offices, a fitting room, new bathrooms and a spacious workroom.

Phase two is now under construction! Demolition of the old space began the

first of the year and Michelle’s Place hopes to start construction on the space in early February. This space will include a new fitting room for wigs and prosthesis, the volunteer welcome station, multipurpose room and patient navigator offices.

Upon completion of phase two, Michelle’s Place will open the regions only cancer resource center serving families facing cancer.

Michelle’s Place looks forward to the day when they can offer multiple classes, support groups, yoga and much more. The Center is currently open by appointment for wigs, prosthesis and patient navigation services.

All support groups and classes are hosted virtually.

Visit www.michellesplace.org for meeting dates and times. Call 951-699-5455 from 9-3:30, M-F to make an appointment. If you or someone you know would like to help Michelle’s Place reach their fundraising goal to build the second phase of the building, please contact Kim Gerrish, 951-699-5455.

MARCH/APRIL 2021

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Benefits of Hiring Vets and Military Spouses Throughout January, the Southwest Riverside County Military Affairs Committee (SWRC MAC) will be highlighting the benefits to local businesses of hiring veterans and military spouses as their employees. The campaign is focused on bringing awareness to the region’s employers on the many talents, benefits, and varied experiences that veterans and spouses bring to the table. Riverside County’s veteran and active-duty population is remarkably high, averaging at 7% throughout the County but with areas of higher concentration, showing that the issue is both timely and important so employers can utilize the labor force to its fullest potential while benefitting and retaining more veterans and their families in the area.

Some employers have already discovered the benefits that comes with an active focus on hiring veterans and military spouses. CarMax in Murrieta says they are “committed to providing career opportunities to our military service members, veterans and their families. Our values of doing the right thing, putting people first, winning together and going for greatness align with those in the military community. Military experience, as well as the varied work experiences of Military Spouses, can often line up with a range of positions across the company. Their adaptability and willingness to learn fit in well with our evolving business model and continue to add tremendous value for our customers and communities. Once we get to know them and they learn about our people-first culture, work environment and career opportunities, they are amazed at how they can redefine their career journey with us.”

The campaign is the first of its kind in SW Riverside County and will surely bring attention to the positive attributes veterans and their families bring to the community. For more information on how and why to hire veterans and military spouses, please visit murrietachamber.org/swrcmac/ and the Facebook page facebook.com/swrcmac.

MARCH/APRIL 2021

Run Hike Ride the Santa Rosa Plateau Virtual or Live – Your Choice Join us virtually as we make history in our first annual Run Hike Ride event to benefit the Santa Rosa Plateau Nature Education Foundation (SRPNEF).

Run, hike or ride anywhere, anytime or through the winding oak-lined trails at the Sylvan Meadows trail area on the Santa Rosa Plateau. The event offers a 5K or 10K for runners, hikers, and riders (bike or horseback). The event also includes a Half Marathon, Family Event, and Team Event. The Family Event also includes a children’s “Passport through the Plateau” activity guide for elementary-age youth and their families to learn in a fun and immersive way about the hidden gems that the Plateau has to offer. With one adult registration, children 12 and under are free for the Family Event. We are also offering a special team event rate of $15 per person for teams of 20 or more.

With 30 days to complete the courses, participants can design their own courses or on the designated courses at Sylvan Meadows. The designated courses will be provided at registration. The virtual event kicks off on Thursday, March 18, 2021 and concludes on Sunday, April 18, 2021. All participants, except for teams, will receive a t-shirt, bib number and medal by mail or at the pick-up site April 17 and 18 at the Sylvan Meadows trailhead.

Team events will receive a medal and bib and will also be able to receive these at the Sylvan Meadows pick up site. These times are to be announced on the event Facebook page and by email. If you sign up to become a member of SRPNEF, you also receive a limited-edition member decal and $10 off your race price. Join and register for the event at: https://runsignup.com/Race/ CA/Murrieta/SantaRosaPlateau RunHikeRide.

SRPNEF members receive discounts on all events except for the Team Event The Santa Rosa Plateau Nature Education Foundation (SRPNEF) is a nonprofit formed in 2003, with the goal to help guide our young citizens towards a life of environmental stewardship. The Mission: To educate and empower youth to appreciate, preserve and protect nature. SRPNEF provides programs, funding, and support of nature education in our schools and the community. The mission is supported be special events, grant, and membership.

The Santa Rosa Plateau is a uniquely stunning ecological preserve that offers an intricate trail system and showcases the natural beauty that is right here in our backyards.

“Let’s come together virtually and on the trails to support the SRPNEF as they continue to instill environmental stewardship in an effort to preserve the Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve and places like it for generations to come”, Amanda Stambersky-Rogers, Event Manager.

Site: Anywhere, anytime OR at Sylvan Meadows on the Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve, 39400 Clinton Keith Road Murrieta 92562 Date: March 18 - April 18, 2021 Cost: 5K,10K Run Hike Ride $40 General Public, $30 SRPNEF Members Half Marathon & Family Event, $45 General Public $35 SRPNEF Members Specialty Team Pricing for teams of 20 more $15 per person Register: www.srpnef.org https://runsignup.com/Race/CA/Murrieta/ SantaRosaPlateauRunHikeRide

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MARCH/APRIL 2021

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Here’s How Gardening Benefits Your Health Stay fit, stress less, and make friends in your own yard.

It's easy to scoff at the idea of gardening as exercise — until you've actually grabbed a trowel and dug in. More and more, scientists are confirming what avid gardeners have always known: Wrestling with stubborn weeds, trimming hedges, and spreading mulch are all good ways to work up a very respectable sweat. Working around the garden is also mentally and emotionally rewarding. We talked to horticulture and fitness experts about five big benefits of getting down and dirty in your flowerbed or vegetable patch.

It Keeps You Fit and Healthy You don’t have to log miles on a treadmill to get some cardio in.

"Gardening has all-around physical benefits in terms of cardiovascular, muscle, and bone health,” says Melissa Roti, professor and director of the exercise-science program at

Westfield State University in Massachusetts. Tasks strenuous enough to leave a gardener feeling slightly winded—pushing a hand mower or raking, for example—will improve cardiovascular fitness.

Most gardening falls under the category of “moderate physical activity,” making it an effective way to shed some pounds or maintain weight, says Barbara Kreski, director of horticultural therapy services at Chicago Botanic Garden. "The more you exert yourself, the greater the benefits.”

Like traditional forms of exercise, gardening 30 minutes five days a week has been shown to lower risk for heart disease and several cancers, and helps maintain good function as the body ages, says Steven Blair, a retired professor of exercise science at the University of South Carolina and coauthor of "Active Living Every Day.” And there’s more good news: Research also suggests that people who do heavy, weight-bearing gardening activities like raking and digging may have higher bone density than those who do not, according to Amy Wagenfeld, adjunct assistant professor at Western Michigan University department of occupational therapy and author of “Therapeutic Gardens: Design for Healing Spaces.” www.marthastewart.com Photography by: Getty Images

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MARCH/APRIL 2021

EST. 1859

Museum At Home The Temecula Valley Museum is currently closed due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. In the meantime, please enjoy these fun “Do At Home” activities. All can be done with simple things usually found around the house. Also below is a children’s book created by a museum in Italy that explains the Corona Virus in terms relatable to children. We encourage you to read and share!! Here is one of the projects for fun at home.

the design, and then cut with the scissors until the entire piece has been cut out from the paper. You should have one shape for each section that has been designed. For example, if you are creating a daisy you will have several ovals for the petals and a long rectangle for the stem. The resulting piece of paper should have empty (or negative) space where the flower design once was, outlined with the black lines of the construction paper (positive space) that are left behind. Younger children may need a parent to help with this step.

OLD TOWN TEMECULA

Stained “Glass" The European artisans of the middle Ages crafted intricate works of stained glass to light up windows in castles, cathedrals, and other special places. These amazingly crafted pieces were originally constructed from molten metal and other non-kid friendly items. Seize the spirit of these old-world treasures to design and create a mock stained-glass masterpiece that stays true to the look of the art, but is easy enough to make with materials you've got around the home.

What You Need: •Black construction paper•White crayon •Colored acetate or cellophane •Clear drying, non-toxic glue •Scissors What You Do: 1. Once your child has decided what they will make, have them use a white crayon to draw the design onto the construction paper. To create a leaded glass effect, each line outlining design should be made into a double line that's at least oneinch thick. Be sure not to draw all the way to the edges of the paper. Leave at least a two-inch border.

2. Help your child cut out the design. This is a great opportunity to discuss positive and negative space. Cut a small slit in the center of each shape that makes up

3. Turn the construction paper over to the back side, the side that doesn't have the white crayon lines. This will now be the front of your stained-glass flower.

4. Cut different colors of acetate or cellophane to fit each empty space flower segment. Decide which parts you want to be which colors. Make sure that the cutouts are big enough to cover the entire part of the design that will be colored with the cellophane, but also small enough so that the colors won't cross over into different parts of thedesign.

5. On the back side (the side that had the white crayon lines on it) glue the acetate/cellophane to the thick paper lines that separate the different shapes of the flower. Set aside to dry.

6. Once the glue has dried, turn the paper over to reveal your "stained glass" work of art!

MARCH/APRIL 2021

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Visiting Our Vineyards

The Pinnacle Restaurant at Falkner Winery The Pinnacle offers great panoramic views, outstanding Mediterranean style food, and high-quality service. This outstanding restaurant is open for lunches 5 days a week.

Best of all, it offers the finest Temecula wine, craft cocktails and beer.

Set on a 1,500-foot hilltop, The Pinnacle offers customers seating in the air conditioned indoors or on the open-air outdoor balcony. The restaurant also serves as an evening wedding and banquet venue.

The Pinnacle Restaurant located at Falkner Winery was recently voted “#1 Top Lunch Restaurant” in the greater San Diego area by diners of Open Table. This beautiful, hill-top restaurant located in the heart of Temecula Wine Country specializes in Mediterranean/American cuisine and provides numerous dishes consistent with a Mediterranean diet. Twice last year Chef Jason’s “Lobster Mac & Cheese” was recommended by Sunset Magazine.

Executive Chef Jason has been Executive Chef since 2017 and was sous chef previous to that. Before that, he was Chef de Prate at the five-star Amaya Restaurant at Grand

Creekside Grille at Wilson Creek Winery The Creekside Grille’s menu offers the best in cuisine to compliment the selection of excellent wines. The menu changes seasonally to savor the bounty of the local Temecula Valley farms and newly released wines. The setting is warm and friendly, with an amazing staff to anticipate your every need. Enjoy one of the best of Temecula’s restaurants.

Open Mon-Fri 11-4, Sat 11-5, Sun 10-4, restaurant offers al fresco dining.

Reservations are highly recommended.

Executive Chef Steve Stawinski brings to Wilson Creek 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry. He has earned his culinary experience under the guidance of some highly seasoned chefs at a number of four-star venues. He has shared his passion and vigor in the kitchen at such establishments as Porter’s Prime Steakhouse, Misty’s and the Smokehouse at Ponte Winery, as well as being Chef de Cuisine for the Hilton Hotel Corporation.

The winery’s Courtyard Bar And Grill is also open for bottle sales, wine club pickups, wine slushies, a limited food menu. The tables in the courtyard are on a first come, first serve basis. No outside food and drinks are permitted.

Del Mar Resort. He was trained at the California Culinary Academy “Le Cordon Blue” in San Francisco.

“Jason is a great Chef with a flair for imaginative ideas. We look forward to his great ideas on some new menu items,” says co-owner Loretta Falkner.

Dining in Wine County Perfect on a Warm Spring Day When you enter Temecula Wine Country it is impossible not to feel the beautiful, relaxed atmosphere of the grape vine covered rolling hills. So, why not enjoy an afternoon away by having lunch at one of the many interesting and unique outdoor bistros, trattorias, delis or hilltop patios?

Here are some to consider for your next getaway.

Mama Rosa’s Trattoria at Robert Renzoni Winery – Italian Cuisine, Wood Fired Pizza Baba Joon’s Kitchen at Fazelli Cellars – Contemporary Persian Cuisine The Cave Café’ at Oak Mountain Winery – Casual California Cuisine The Restaurant at Leoness Cellars – Seasonal Selections Sangio’s Deli at Cougar Winery – Salads, Pizza, Decadent Desserts The Bistro at Monte De Oro – Casual Lunch Far, Pizza, Appetizers Carol’s Restaurant at Baily Winery – Salads, Appetizers, Entrees Meritage Restaurant at Callaway Winery – Fresh from the Garden Fare Bistro at Bel Vino Winery – Sandwiches & Snacks The Restaurant at Ponte Winery – American Cuisine The Vineyard Rose at South Coast Winery – Contemporary California Cuisine Café’ Churon at Churon Winery B & B – Salads, Appetizers, Flatbreads Maurice Carrie Winery – Serving World Famous Brie Bread Café’ Champagne at Thornton Winery – Lunch & Dinner

Bon Appetite!

MARCH/APRIL 2021

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theGoodnews

Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding.

Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.

Proverbs 3:5-6 NLT

God Craciously Guides the Foregiven

By Pastor John Stewart

“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye.” (Psalm 32:8)

“I will instruct you,” Although David is most noted, as the Psalm writer, many scholars believe these are actually God’s Words, to give needed direction to His children. It is the Lord alone, Who, gives to His children right direction and understanding

As we approach the Easter celebration of the glorious

for Godly living. By the Lord’s personal guidance and oversight in human circum-

resurrection of Jesus Christ, we are living in a season of time

stances, He instructs His children thru life’s tests and trials, but He primarily teaches

where the hope and promise of The Cross and the Empty

His children by His Spirit and His Word. “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God,

Tomb are to many, their greatest source of wisdom, strength

and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness,

and encouragement. Or as Billy Graham has declared, “Our

that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (2

hope is not in our own ability, or in our goodness, or in our physical strength. Our hope

Timothy 3:16-17). The Bible is the primary way God “instructs” His children as to, Who

is instilled in us by the resurrection of Christ. “The Lord God hasn’t called His people

God is, what God is like, and God’s will for how His redeemed children should live

to do for Him, but to trust Him to work thru them for His Glory”.

their lives.

Psalm 32:8 declares a great Promise of the Lord to personally provide His chil-

“I will teach you in the way which you should go”; God’s redeemed children should

dren with the wisdom and guidance needed to uprightly navigate the perils of this

carefully follow the path of Godly living and Godly duty, from which men are so prone

fallen world. “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide

to wander. Therefore, the centerpiece of Christian teaching, preaching, discipling,

you with My eye.”(Psalm 32:8) The Lord Himself promises to teach his children to

counseling and training is to personally follow and carefully point others to the person

walk in His ways of integrity, by the leading of the Holy Spirit and the Light of His Holy

and work of Jesus Christ. The Apostle Paul declared this truth: “Him we preach, warn-

Word. Our Lord does not forgive and redeem us that we might live by our own devices

ing every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man

and ways, but that He Might direct the lives of His redeemed children in “paths of

perfect in Christ Jesus. To this end I also labor, striving according to His working which

righteousness for His Name’s sake”.

works in me mightily.” (Colossians 1:28-29). Christ’s purpose, example, teaching, sacrificial death and unparalleled resurrection, all have left His example and pattern for God’s children to learn from and live by. “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.” (John 15:13) Christ’s sacrificial life and shining example has left His followers a well defined path to follow.

“I will guide you with My eye” Our Savior is not only our Teacher, but also our “Good Shepherd” Who by His ever, watchful eye, His tender mercies and His Almighty power, lead us in right paths, for ‘His Names sake.’ The beauty of His promise, is that our Lord and Savior not only saves His children from their sin, but He also continually watches over His children, unfailingly leading them in “paths of righteousness, for His Name’s sake.” (Psalm 23:3b). The biblical principle is of One who faithfully offers direction to another so he can follow a certain path and reach a certain place. This One promises as well to keep an eye on him as he travels so he will not get lost or go astray. Albert Barnes explains it in this way: “The idea is that of one who is telling another what way he is to take in order that he may reach a certain place; and he says he will watch him, or will keep an eye upon him; he will not let him go wrong.”

As Easter draws near, believers in Jesus Christ must thankfully and faithfully remember His Glorious Resurrection! Jesus Christ, lived a sinless life, but died for the sin of the world, so that those who will believe in Him, may find forgiveness and new life by faith in Him. His resurrection is the Triumph of His life given for the sin of the world. May the Lord lead His Church in a humble and thankful celebration of the Most Glorious event in History. May God guide His redeemed children, to lead others to a saving faith in The Savior, Jesus Christ. Easter is the time we celebrate new life and hope in Jesus. “Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12). Christ's death and resurrection are a believer’s daily hope of how the Almighty Power and Good Will of God has overcome every evil way, of how truth will prevail over all deception, of how love will triumph over sin, and how the blessed hope of eternal life will one day put an end to death.

Pastor John Stewart is the Executive Pastor at Revival Christian Fellowship in Menifee.

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MARCH/APRIL 2021

theGoodnews

Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.”

Luke 23:34 NKJ

Resurrection Morning An Easter story, by Max Lucado

“He is not here. He has risen from the dead as he said he would.”

Matthew 28:6 “When I first saw Him being led up the hill, I noticed He was different. He didn’t demand we let Him go. He didn’t shout or resist. And we hammered the spike into His hand“ Claudius paused, wondering if he should have mentioned this. An encouraging nod from one of the women told him to continue.” --when we placed the spike in His hand, He held His hand still. He didn’t fight.”

“Sounds like something He would do,” a man in the back stated. Several nodded in agreement.

“He never seemed angry.” Claudius’s voice grew softer as he continued. “He never blamed anyone. People were cursing and laughing at Him, but not once did I see His eyes lose their calm.”

No one moved as Claudius spoke. When he shared these events with his superiors earlier in the day, they had scoffed. It didn’t matter to the Romans how Jesus had acted.

But it mattered to these people. They wanted to know every detail. For the first time Claudius felt a camaraderie with his listeners – a camaraderie based on a fascination with one Man. He continued, “Forgive them, ‘I heard Him say. And when He spoke, I looked up, He was looking at me. His face was a mask of blood and spit. But He was praying for me.” The only movement in the room was the nodding of heads.

“After the crucifixion I helped lower His body and lay it on the ground. I waited as these women–“He motioned to several near the front. “I waited as they prepared the body, and then I saw that it was placed in the tomb. I thought my day was over. It took four men to close the grave’s opening with a huge stone. When we turned to leave, word came that Pilot and the Temple leaders were nervous that someone would still the body.

We were told to seal the tomb and stand guard all night.”

There were several of us, so we built a fire and took turns. I was the first to sleep.

When they woke me for my turn, it was an hour before dawn. The night was black – as black as any night I can remember. The moon was small, and the stars were hidden by the clouds.”

“I stood on one side. Another soldier stood on the other. He laughed about how easy it was to guard a tomb. Not often does a soldier get guard duty in a cemetery. Maybe we dozed off, because at first I thought I was dreaming. The ground began to shake – violently. It shook so hard I fell to the ground. Rocks fell from the walls behind us. Sparks flew from the fire. The soldiers asleep on the ground jumped up. I know they were standing because when the light hit them, I could see their faces like it was broad daylight.”

“What light?’ someone asked.

“You tell me!” Claudius demanded. “Where did that light come from? The rock rolled back and light roared out. A burst of fire with no heat. A gust of wind blew from the tomb, put out the fire, knocked us back, and the next thing I knew, the tomb was empty. I looked at the soldiers. They were stunned. About that time these two women appeared.”

“That’s when we saw the angel!” Mary blurted. “He was sitting on the rock! He told us that Jesus was not here. He told us that…”

“He told us that Jesus is no longer dead!”

His words rang in the room like the peal of a bell. No one dared speak. Finally, one did. A clean shaven younger man said softly, but firmly, “Just like He said He would.”

“You mean, He said He would do this?” Claudius asked.

“More than once. But we didn’t understand. We didn’t believe. Until today.”

“John,” one of the women asked the man speaking, “you were there. You went to the tomb. Is that what you saw?”

“Peter and I saw the tomb. We saw it open and empty. But we didn’t see Jesus.”

Once again, the room was quiet. Then Claudius broke the silence. “I have a question. I’ve told you what you wanted to know. Now you tell me what I want to know. This has been on my mind all weekend. It’s been on my heart ever since I struck the nail into Jesus’ hand. Who is this man? Who is Jesus?”

If any head hung before, it lifted at this moment. If any thoughts had wandered, they wandered no more.

“Is there any doubt?” Mary said. Her eyes were bright. She jumped to her feet as she spoke. “I saw Him! I saw Him risen from the dead. He is who He said He was. He is the Son of God!” With that statement the room broke into chaos.

“Impossible!”

“No, she is right. Let her speak!”

“Why did He let them kill Him if He is the Son of God?” “It doesn’t make sense.”

“What doesn’t make sense is why you can’t believe!”

Claudius was silent. What he was hearing, he could not handle. But what he had seen at the grave, he could not deny. He leaned over and put his elbows on his knees and buried his face in his hands. Thoughts rumbled in his head. He was so intent that he didn’t notice the sudden silence. Stillness reigned for several seconds before he raised his head. A light filled the room. He looked at the door and the window; they were still closed.

Faces that had been cast in shadows now beamed. All eyes stared in his direction – not at him, but behind him. But before he could turn to see what they were seeing, a hand was on his shoulder. When Claudius turned to look at the hand, he found the answer for his heart.

The hand was pierced.

If we’re honest, we’ll realize that Claudius’s story is our own. Each of us, through our own sin, played a figurative role in nailing Jesus to the cross. The glory of Easter is that the same hands that were pierced by our rebellion now reach out to us in compassion and forgiveness.

Truly, we can say with the prophet Isaiah, “He was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed” (Isaiah 53:5).

This story is a reproduction of Max Lucado’s Resurrection Morning, taken from a Focus on the Family news letter.

PAGE 14

Kids

MARCH/APRIL 2021

City of Temecula Introduces Parent & Me Busy Bags for Fun and Educational Activities Delivered Directly to Your Home Are you searching for something fun and educational to do with your toddler or preschooler? The City of Temecula Community Services Department is proud to introduce Parent & Me Busy Bags for families looking for enriching activities without the hassle of planning, shopping, and prepping. Jessica Walker, an instructor with the Community Services Department, has taken her experience as a toddler/preschool enrichment instructor, and created fun packages that will be mailed directly to your home!

Registration is available for one or multiple months. Packets will be mailed out the first week of every month, and will include four busy bags with instructions. Activities change each month and will encourage your child to work on skills such as hand-eye coordination, fine motor, alphabet recognition, counting, shape and color recognition. These activities will be reusable, so that children can play with them over and over again.

If you are looking for in-person instruction, the City of Temecula Commu-

nity Services Department has a variety of classes for a variety of ages.

Current in-person classes are held outdoors and include: Pre-K Fitness Fun Class, Ballet Folklorico, Field Hockey, Glitz Cheer, Karate, Pickleball, and Tennis. Classes are constantly being evaluated and planned in accordance with current State and local safety mandates. Updates on classes and newly added classes are posted online regularly.

Please visit TemeculaCA.gov/ TCSD to register for a Busy Bag or for more information on other classes. For additional questions, please contact the Classes Team at Classes@TemeculaCA.gov or 951-694-6480.

MARCH/APRIL 2021

PAGE 15

Kids

Hands on Arts and Education When you mix hands-on training, education and empowerment you get the perfect concoction for students to be set up for employment success. When you add art into the equation, you are paving the way for wellrounded, well-prepared learners and leaders. This is the mantra behind JDS Creative Academy’s mission and the many classes and programs they offer. Alongside their job-training program tailored to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, they offer year-round opportunities for the community that includes visual, performing and digital art classes and workshops, live-theater productions and special events such as DigiFest Temecula, a Haunted Studio production and summer camp activities.

Engaging with art is essential to one's development, which is why JDSCA aims to increase awareness and access to the arts and use it as an educational tool. JDS Creative Academy believes that art incorporated into education helps to develop problem-solving skills and boosts critical thinking, allowing for a new perspective within the global world. Arts in education has been proven to have a positive impact on students’ academic, social and emotional outcomes. JDS Creative Academy wishes to contribute to these remarkable findings by offering structured curriculum classes that meet the California Educational Codes for 4th-12th graders in Visual, Performing and Digital Arts. Other classes and workshops are designed to teach specific industry on-the-job training skills and needs through the California state-approved apprenticeship program. However, classes can also just be taken for creative enrichment, fun or a challenge! Classes are open to youth, teens and adults!

Know someone who is up on the latest fashion trends and is interested in designing clothes? We have a fashion design class! Sewing is a fantastic trade to learn and something that will always come in handy. There are many benefits to the skill such as improved hand-eye coordination, brain growth and stress relief. Do you have an aspiring actor/actress in the family? Check out our acting classes offered for all ages. Maybe you want to brush up on your photography skills because, let's face it, we all live in the virtual social media world. Our photography class accommodates all levels of experience.

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you. your father corrects My child, listen when mother’s instruction.

Don’t neglect your ~ Proverbs 1:8

Find us on

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Beyond the screen, we host a scriptwriting class where students have their work read by professional actors, as well as a musical theatre program and backstage production classes for those who crave the stage! JDS Creative Academy is truly for anyone who seeks hands-on education, training and enrichment in the arts.

JDS Creative Academy’s spring classes are currently offered in-person and virtually, via zoom. The studio the nonprofit calls home is a 7,000 sq. foot creative space, so practicing social distancing is effortless. Let your creativity shine in our all-inclusive environment! You can set up your tour at JDSCA by visiting www.jdscreativeacademy.org.

Classes and corresponding times: • Youth Acting - Monday, 5-7 PM (month to month commitment) • Teen Acting - Tuesday, 5-7 PM (month to month commitment) • Fashion & BackStage Design - Wednesday, 4:30 -6:30 PM (4-month commitment) • Script Writing - Thursday, 5-6:30 PM (4-month commitment) •

Photography - Thursday, 4:30-6 PM (4-month commitment)

•

Musical Theater - Thursday, 5-6:30 PM (4-month commitment)

•

Adult Acting - Thursday, 7-10 PM (Month to month commitment)

“It is art that makes life, makes interest, makes importance, and I know of no substitute whatever for the force and beauty of its process.” ~Henry James. JDSCA looks forward to helping you enrich your education, call now!

PAGE 16

MARCH/APRIL 2021

Kids

The Rainbow Hen

By Professor Kidsbrary

With two weeks before Easter, Looking far and wide, Every bunny was now hunting, For eggs that they would hide!

But before this huge job Could ever be complete, All the eggs must be dyed, Which was not an easy feat!

So, they went to every farm, Where hens gathered round And told them that they needed, Every egg that hit the ground!

First, they must be boiled, Then all eggs were dip-ed in dye, Using every color, that they had, Like a rainbow in the sky!

So, the hen’s started cackling, As they squatted where they stood, These were “free range” birds, That's why their eggs were good!

Now while this was going on, Colors poured into every pot, Millions of eggs had to be dyed, And dear friend... that is a lot!

But just eats and stays in bed!

Until one fateful day, When everything would change, What I'm about to tell you now, Sounds impossible and strange!

Purple, orange, yellow, green Lavender and blue, The colors were spectacular, Displaying every hue!

It seems that the night before, A tornado had touched down, Sucking up each egg prepared, In every single town!

When a hen laid an egg It was stored then in a bin, Except, one bird in a corner, Who would not even begin!

The Easter bunny’s panicked, There were no eggs they could hide, An Easter without Easter eggs?

Every bunny and hen cried!

They called her “lazy” bird, Because no egg had she laid, She ate, she slept, then ate again, With no egg attempting made!

Expect for lazy hen, This time there was no doubt, That she could make a difference, So, her eggs came popping out!

They cheered and hugged each other!

And when the day had ended, Much to their surprise, Each Easter basket had been filled, They could not believe their eyes!

The other hens would laugh, What use was she they said?

She won’t even help us out,

But to everyone’s amazement, They were each a different color, Dropping out already dyed,

And now for our hero?

She was given a new name, Known now as Rainbow hen,

WOW Words Com-plete to finish something.

Eg. The boy was told to complete the puzzle.

Gath-ered to collect or bring together.

Eg. The girl gathered all her dolls together to play with them.

Spec-tac-u-lar to see or do something amazing.

Eg. Grandma could tell amazing stories!

A-temp-ting to try and do something Eg. Attempting to run as fast as he could the boy won the race!

Diff-er-ent when something is not the same.

Eg. The two girls wore different dresses to the party.

WOW Wisdom Sometimes, when we look at other people, we think we know what there like. But, by not getting to really know them, we could be wrong! In our story, The Rainbow Hen, all the other hens on the farm, made fun of her. They called her “lazy” hen” because, all she did was eat, sleep and never lay an egg! Not one of the hen’s, ever came up to her to talk, or try to get to know her. They just thought, she was lazy…but that was not true at all. The hen just thought that she was not needed, because the other hens gave the farmer, all the eggs he could ever want. Until one day, when the other hen’s (and bunny’s) did not know what to do, when all their dyed eggs, disappeared into a tornado. When that happened, she felt needed and wanted to help. Little did she know that she could lay colored eggs and save Easter!

Have you ever walked by a classmate that was quiet or ate lunch alone?

Why not try to get to know that person, they could turn out to be funny, smart, kind and just maybe…your new best friend!

MARCH/APRIL 2021

Kids

PAGE 17

Stephen Michael Linen, Jr. Memorial Park’s New Playground Honors Temecula’s First Responders Temecula’s Community Services Department announces a new playground at Stephen Michael Linen, Jr. Memorial Park (44935 Nighthawk Pass in Redhawk) made possible by our residents’ support of Measure S. This newly renovated project honors Temecula’s First Responders with a public safety-themed playground with many new features, including a police station play structure for children 5-12 years old with a twostory enclosed tower, two 12 spiral slides, a double slide, several climbers, ladders, and a hex pod climber.

Kids are also sure to enjoy the 33 ft. long Sky Run Zip Track, fourperson police car seesaw; and a police dog climber named after Temecula’s very own K-9 officer, Dayka.

Younger kids can play on the firehouse-themed 2-5

Temecula Valley Elks #2801 Drug Awareness Winners for 2020-2021 The Temecula Valley Elks #2801 held its annual Drug Awareness Contests for the 2020-2021 year. There were three contests: Poster Contest for grades 3rd, 4th and 5th, Essay Contest for grades 6th, 7th and 8th and a Video Contest for Pre-High School, High School and Post-Graduate Students.

Entry forms were sent out through the Peach Jar Program to the Murrieta and Temecula Schools. The theme for all three contests was “Drug Abuse – No Excuse.”

The winners for each of the contests were: Poster Contest 1st Place - Journee Garcia from Van Avery Prep 2nd Place – Kirsten Craig from Van Avery Prep 3rd Place – Kayla Crecpin from Van Avery Prep Honorable Mention: Lilly Desire from St. Jeanne De Lestonac Essay Contest 1st Place – Haley Kitzerow from Van Avery Prep 2nd Place – Alison Chapin from Van Avery Prep 3rd Place – Meagan Barry from Van Avery Prep Video Contest 1st Place – Isabella Medici from Temecula Valley High School The winners received certificates of recognition and a gift card from Barnes and Noble. We were unable able to hold an ‘in-person’ Award Ceremony, so the certificates and awards were delivered to their school, if the school was open and mailed to winners at their home, if their school was not open. As always, we had had some outstanding entries. The 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners in each division were forwarded to the District Level for additional judging. The top entries at the District Level will be forwarded onto to the State Level.

year old play structure, which has multiple platforms, slides, and climbers. For the adults, there is also a Thrive 450 Fitness Station located just outside of the playground area.

The park was dedicated in honor of Highway Patrol Officer Stephen Michael Linen, Jr. who was killed in the line of duty on August 12, 2001, when he was struck by a drunk driver during a traffic stop in San Diego.

Mayor Maryann Edwards commented, Stephen Michael Linen, Jr.’s memory and legacy lives on right here in Temecula.

Michael was admired and awarded for acts of bravery and heroism performed while rescuing a man trapped in a burning vehicle and for his efforts to stop drunk drivers in San Diego.

All Temecula playgrounds remain open for families to get outside and responsibly enjoy parks and recreation, but remember to please Play It Safe by socially distancing when possible, and being respectful of the safety of those around you.

Please stay connected for more information by following @TemeculaParksAndRec on all social media channels.

MARCH/APRIL 2021

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SENIORS

Committed to Patient Safety Temecula Valley Hospital Temecula Valley Hospital has received its eighth ‘A’ grade and second Top General Hospital Award from The Leapfrog Group, a national healthcare watchdog organization. These awards signify our commitment to providing the highest-quality and safest healthcare to the Temecula Valley community.

Throughout a difficult year plagued by a global pandemic, the physicians, nurses, staff, administration and volunteers at Temecula Valley Hospital never wavered in their dedication to patient safety. We continue to provide highquality, trustworthy care to every patient who comes through the doors of the hospital.

Temecula Valley Hospital is honored to receive these awards and will continue to advance healthcare services and meet the highest standards of patient safety.

If you need to find a doctor, call us at 855-859-5203.

To learn more about the award-winning care, visit temeculavalleyhospital.com

12 New Videos from the Menifee Valley Historical Association The Menifee Valley Historical Association is pleased to announce the first of twelve educational videos that highlight Historical Markers placed at locations of historical significance in Menifee. The first video features the Hans Christensen Family as they made their way from Denmark to Menifee Valley. Today a Historic Landmark marks the location of the Christensen Family Farm.

Viewers can go to MenifeeHistory.com to mark the spot of this landmark and then follow along as additional videos reveal more historical landmarks and the stories that fill in the rich history of the Menifee Valley. https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=2OHhEAHSHiY&list =PLzh6Vg6hKt3oldgjFi1FH8tqhIQRhvil

MARCH/APRIL 2021

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DINING

How to Make Corned Beef Hash

By Elise Bauer, SimplyRecipes.com Wondering how to make corned beef hash? It's easy. Just sauté some onions, add chopped boiled potatoes and chopped cooked corned beef, and let them sizzle in the pan until browned and crispy at the edges. So good!

2.

Add potatoes and corned beef.

Mix in the chopped corned beef and potatoes. Spread out evenly over the pan. Increase the heat to high or medium high and press down on the mixture with a metal spatula.

3.

Cook until browned, then flip.

Do not stir the potatoes and corned beef, but let them brown. If you hear them sizzling, this is good.

4.

Use a metal spatula to peek underneath and see if they are browning. If nicely browned, use the spatula to flip sections over in the pan so that they brown on the other side. Press down again with the spatula. If there is too much sticking, you can add a little more butter to the pan. Continue to cook in this manner until the potatoes and the corned beef are nicely browned.

5.

Stir in parsley, black pepper to serve.

6.

Remove from heat, stir in chopped parsley. Add plenty of freshly ground black pepper, and add salt to taste.

7.

Serve with fried or poached eggs for breakfast.

ADD A FEW EGGS You can't have corned beef hash without a few eggs, right? You can add eggs in two ways: 1.

Fry or poach a few eggs in a separate pan and serve them alongside your hash.

2.

Make a few nests in your pan of corn beef and crack the eggs into them. Cover the pan for a few minutes until the whites are set, and then serve the eggs and the hash together.

NOTE: If you have leftover cabbage from corned beef and cabbage, feel free to chop that up as well and add that to the hash.

INGREDIENTS 2 to 3 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 medium onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup) 2 to 3 cups finely chopped, cooked corned beef 2 to 3 cups chopped cooked potatoes, preferably Yukon gold Salt and pepper Chopped fresh parsley 1.

Sauté onions in butter.

Heat butter in a large skillet (preferably cast iron) on medium heat. Add the onion and cook a few minutes, until translucent.

Prep Time 5 mins Cook Time 20 mins Total Time 25 mins Servings 4 to 6 servings

St. Patrick’s Day Virtual Concert Everyone is Invited!

March 12 – 7:00PM Feeling lucky? Grab your fiddle and get ready to jig, because the City of Temecula is hosting the very first Virtual St. Patrick’s Day Concert featuring Celia & Mulligan Stew, on Friday, March 12 at 7:00 pm premiering on Facebook @TemeculaParksAndRec. This free concert is sure to put you in the mood for shamrocks and shepherd’s pie! Remember to play it safe, and celebrate responsibly! Happy St. Patrick’s Day from the City of Temecula.

Temecula Community Service District President and City Council Member, Zak Schwank stated, “Hey Temecula! St. Patrick’s Day is almost here. Are you ready to Shamrock & Roll? If so, be sure to tune in and enjoy our Virtual St. Patrick’s Day Concert! Despite the pandemic, the show goes on, and public health and safety continue to be our top priority. Irish everyone a happy and safe St. Patrick’s Day!” Please stay tuned for more information by following @TemeculaParksAndRec on social media, and visiting TemeculaCA.gov regularly for new updates.

MARCH/APRIL 2021

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DINING

Slow-Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage Recipe compliments of Martha Stewart

This St. Patrick's Day favorite couldn't be simpler to make. By making your corned beef and cabbage in a slow cooker, all of the hard work is done for you.

To prevent overcooking and overflowing, your slow cooker should be at least halfway but no more than two-thirds full when you start cooking. Need even more time than a recipe allows? Chilling the crock and ingredients buys 1 to 1 1/2 more hours of cooking time. Don't peek (too often), every time you open the lid it increases cooking time by about 15 minutes.

INGREDIENTS 2 celery stalks, cut into 3-inch pieces 3 carrots, cut into 3-inch pieces 1 small yellow onion, cut into 1-inch wedges (root end left intact) 1/2 pound small potatoes, halved if large 6 sprigs thyme 1 corned beef brisket (about 3 pounds), plus pickling spice packet or 1 tablespoon pickling spice 1/2 head Savoy cabbage, cut into 1 1/2-inch wedges Grainy mustard, for serving DIRECTIONS In a 5-to-6-quart slow cooker, place celery, carrots, onion, potatoes, and thyme. Place corned beef, fat side up, on top of vegetables and sprinkle with pickling spice; add enough water to almost cover meat (4 to 6 cups). Cover and cook on high until corned beef is tender, 4 1/4 hours (or 8 1/2 hours on low). Arrange cabbage over corned beef, cover, and continue cooking until cabbage is tender, 45 minutes (or 1 1/2 hours on low). Thinly slice corned beef against the grain and serve with vegetables, cooking liquid, and grainy mustard. prep: 15 mins total: 5 hrs. 15 mins Servings: 6 Based on some of the comments about this recipe, you may want to add more spices: Celery Salt, Rosemary, Bay Leaf, added salt, black peppercorns. It seems that you can use the spices that you love most to add to the flavor.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day

Bain taitneamh as!

(Enjoy)

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HEALTHYLIFESTYLE

MARCH/APRIL 2021

Ask The @Nu_Tristanist Q. I have heard it is best to eat seasonally for nutrition. Is this different than buying organic food? Which is better, what does this mean and how do I start?

- Diane C. A. The term “eating seasonally” refers to eating foods that are being grown locally, right now. This is a healthier way of eating because the food is fresher since the produce is both grown nearer the place of distribution and the place of consumption. Food that is not grown locally is typically locked in cargo holds and shipping containers and is often done so before the peak of freshness so that it can survive the weeks traveling to your grocery store without over-ripening. While it is easiest to buy seasonal produce at a farmers market because the food that is sold there is grown locally (and therefore grown seasonally by default), you can buy seasonally grown produce in your neighborhood grocery store with a little work.

Here is a list of food that is seasonal in southern California in December: Artichokes, Basil, Green beans, Beets, Brussels Sprout, Cabbage, Carrots, Cauliflower, Celery, Chard, Chili, Pepper, Lemons,, Valencia Oranges, Collards, Corn, Cucumber, Eggplant, Grapes, Guava, Pineapple, Kale, Kiwi, Kohlrabi, Lettuce, Mushroom, Mustard, Okra, Onion, dry, Onion, Green, Peppers, Pomegranates, Potatoes, Spinach, Summer and Winter squash, Tomatillos, Tomatoes, Turnips, and Yams.

As you make eating seasonally habitual you will notice that dishes associated with holidays for that specific time of year reflect the foods “in season”.

Just off this list for December I see many foods I am used to eating specifically this time of year… green beans for casserole, baked acorn squash, potatoes for latkes, and pumpkin for pie.

Now, to insure the item you buy off this list is grown locally, you need to

read the label. As stated by the U.S. department of agriculture, Country of Origin Labeling (COOL) is a consumer labeling law that requires retailers to identify the country of origin on certain foods referred to as “covered commodities” (this list includes fruits and veggies). So, unless it says “grown in California” ect. You can’t be sure it’s local or even grown in your country.

This brings us to organic food. Eating organic food is different than eating seasonally and both have its benefits. By choosing to eat organic produce we reduce the risk of pesticides we consume. According to the Organic Trade association a conventionally grown apple may be sprayed up to 16 times with over 30 different chemicals. After conducting a nine-year study, the FDA reported that between 33-39% of our food contains detectable amounts of pesticides, including 54% of our fruits and 36% of our vegetables (this has everything to do with the skin of the fruit or vegetable. A non-organic banana stores almost no pesticides in the edible part of its flesh). Professionals in the medical and health fields are concerned about the long-term effect of these chemicals on our health as exposure to pesticides has been linked to headaches, fatigue, nausea and neurological disorders. Yikes! It seems like a pretty easy choice to make but here’s where it gets tricky… Just because something is organic in your grocery store does not mean it’s grown locally as we now have “Big Organic” which saw the demand for organic foods and cashed in by developing huge farms and factories to fill the need. Hence every market having its own unique line of organic foods specific to that location. This is not necessarily a bad thing because we as the consumer still get to make the choice, and these Big Organic companies provide organic foods that we sometimes can’t source locally.

By now you might be thinking: “this is too much work Tristan!” and I don’t blame you. When it comes to the health of myself, my family and my clients, I request that they eat organically as I feel this is the more important of the two. It is my firm belief that lifting weights, getting fresh air and eating organic food is the key to remaining youthful and healthy forever! Thankfully, I have found that often times by eating seasonally, I am eating locally by default. I have also found that some of my local markets are actually featuring a “locally grown” section. It seems as though the benefits of eating this way are catching on and becoming increasingly easier and accessible. It is commonly thought that by eating locally and/or organic food is more expensive and this is true, but ONLY BY AN AVERAGE OF 7.5%! The more often you practice shopping this way, you will find organic food of the season is often on sale and the same cost as its nonorganic counterpart. Two pounds of organic blueberries for $4, please and thank you!

The benefits of eating this way far exceed the negatives. In today’s economic and health climate it is as important to eat fresh, organic produce as it is to support your local community’s economy. The easiest way to do both is to shop at your local farmers market, talk to the farmers, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Or if you choose to shop at grocery stores, bring your list of seasonal foods and read those labels!

For a list of local farmers markets go here: www.rivcoawm.org/resources/farmers-markets-events Got a question for Tristan? Email her at faceoffitness@gmail.com, subject line: Ask the @Nu_Tristanist Tristan LeClair is a mother of two, title holding bodybuilder, certified trainer and nutritionist who has been transforming people’s lives and bodies in southern California for the past 11 years.

MARCH/APRIL 2021

PAGE 26

PETS

Animal Friends of the Valley

This is SHADOW she is a fixed 7-year-old cat that is looking for an older family or to be the only cat in the house. She uses a litter box and loves being held. She is definitely a lap cat.

Retrievers and Friends PETS RYDER is a very nice, 18-month-old Husky. He’s the nicest Husky we have had in the rescue. He’s good with other dogs, walks nice on a leash, settles down very nicely indoors and is friendly with everyone he meets.

Ryder will be a wonderful companion.

RAY RAY is a 3-year-old Corgi mix. He is the most friendly, loving dog towards all people. He does have a chip on his shoulder towards other male dogs and would be best as an only dog. He loves to go for walks, is active and is about 45 lbs.

He came to us from Mexico.

MAX on the left, is a nice, 4-year-old Chihuahua and his pal SPARKLE is a lovely 4-year-old Terrier. They would like to stay together.

They love each other.

Their owner adopted them from the shelter and is no longer able to keep them.

They have excellent temperaments, friendly with everyone they meet, very easygoing and well behaved.

GERTI is sweet goat who lived alone in dirt field when her owner passed and she has been desperate for a companion.

She became fearful of people, but we are working on gaining her trust.

Gerti is 11-12 yrs. old. She needs a home with at least one more goat.

We are also looking for a goat that needs a home to be adopted with her.

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

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MARCH/APRIL 2021

PETS

10 Things to ConsiderPETS Before Adopting a Pet

By Lauri Julian

During the past year, we’ve all been mostly sheltering in place. As a result, pet rescue groups and animal shelters have seen unprecedented adoptions. Since people may continue working from home after restrictions are lifted, mass adoptions could continue. If you’re thinking about adding a furry family member, here’s a list of 10 things to consider. The reason some pet adoptions do not go well is due to unrealistic expectations and lack of research. Matching a pet with your lifestyle and personality makes for a more successful adoption. #1 – Reasons for Adopting Have you asked yourself why you want a pet? Is it to offer a good home or to have some companionship? If it’s for companionship, look for a pet that isn’t too independent. Do you want a dog that can go on long walks, or a cuddle buddy on the couch? Do any of your family members have health issues related to animal allergies?

There are some dogs that are hypoallergenic. #2 – How much Available Time do you have?

Consider how much time you have to care for an animal on a daily basis. Any type of pet takes up some of your time. Once you have a pet, who will take care of it during vacations or last minute weekend getaways? #3 – Reality vs. Fantasy What are your expectations? Do you think the pet will suddenly make your life more fulfilling? Whatever your expectations, envision life with a pet before you adopt.

Not all pets fit what you have in mind. Share your expectations with the group you are adopting from so they can help find the best match. #4 – Responsibility = Emotional, Physical and Financial There may be times when your new pet has accidents in the house or chews up your favorite shoes! Are you able to train a dog or hire someone to break them of bad habits? Are you able to provide exercise, discipline, and affection? Most dogs love you unconditionally and ask for very little in return. But they need exercise (depending on the breed/), they need structure, and daily love and attention. #5 – Type of Animal to Adopt Do you have a specific breed or animal in mind? Do you have an active or sedentary lifestyle? Have you considered a senior pet? They are less active, typically housetrained, and make loyal and loving companions. If you want a puppy, do you have the time, energy, and patience for training? Do you have kids? Do you have other dogs or pets in the house? It’s important to consider all of this when adopting a new pet. Whatever pet you choose, give yourself, your family, your other pets, and the new animal time to adjust. #6 – Animals and Training Will the animal need training? Most dogs will need some training when they come into a new home. How about the pet’s age? Are you prepared to modify your home a bit to accommodate a puppy, kitten, or aging pet? #7 – Space and Location Some pets need a lot of space and others do well even in a one-bedroom apartment with walks or visits to the park. Also, consider the area where you live -- are there coyotes and hawks? Do you have adequate fencing? Are you prepared for pee pad training if your small dog can’t go out at night due to prey animals? #8 – Current and Future Financial Situation If you get a pet from a rescue group or shelter, the good news is they’ll already be spayed/neutered, vaccinated, vetted for current health problems, and microchipped, so you will save on those costs. But even if you have the financial resources to care for a pet now, you’ll need to prepare for unexpected medical costs.

One option is Care Credit. Ask if your vet clinic accepts this form of payment, and you can apply instantly. There are payment plans that include no interest if the bill is paid in full by a certain time. You can also check into pet insurance or set up a savings account for your pet’s future needs.

#9 – Living with the Animal for a Lifetime Having a pet is a LONGTERM commitment, not to be done on impulse, or to be done as a gift for someone who isn’t fully prepared. They are part of your family from the day they come into your home and you’re responsible for their welfare for their entire lifetime. Make sure everyone in the family agrees 100 percent. If not, it causes stress on the pet and the family. The goal of pet adoption is to have a forever home.

Returning a pet is a difficult task and can be hard on everyone in the family, especially the pet. #10 – Do Your Research Not doing enough research is one of the top reasons why animals are surrendered. Research the pros/cons about the pet you’re getting such as the breed’s needs, grooming, common health issues, temperament, energy level and how wellsuited they are with children, if applicable. Ask about the most current medical history and any issues or special needs.

Whenever you choose to get your next pet, please keep in mind these 10 considerations to help ensure a more successful adoption. You’ll be glad you did!

The shelter and AFV Clinic have remained open throughout this unprecedented time. The community has really responded by assisting us with fostering, volunteering, and donations. AFV appreciates your time, love, and dedication.

We are excited to announce! Mad Mike, and his Small Business, Mad Mike’s American Gourmet, have invited us to join their Community Club.

Mike has offered us an opportunity to Fundraise, every week 52 weeks a year, just by enjoying Great Take-out Meals once per week. NO COMMITMENT NECESSARY. Help us Receive Fundraising by Eating Great Food……it’s that Easy!

This is how you can help us out!

Order from Mad Mike on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday and you pick up your Refrigerator Ready Meals on Tuesday or Wednesday between the hours of 11:00 and 4:00 at Mad Mike’s American Gourmet! The Menu Changes every week so Mad Mike will email you a New Menu to order from each week.

Step 1: Contact Mad Mike's by emailing theclub@madmikesstore.com Let them know that you support Animal Friends of the Valleys! There is no charge to be a member and no commitments to make to be a member.

Step 2: Mad Mike will Email you a Weekly Community Club Menu, if you like one or a few of the Meals, just email theclub@madmikesstore.com with your choices and you may pick them up the following Tuesday or Wednesday. If you do order a meal or two to take home, you will be supporting Animal Friends of the Valleys. theclub@madmikesstore.com Animal Friends of the Valleys is a 501(c)(3) organization that depends on donations for support of programs that benefit lost and homeless animals in our valleys. Our Tax ID # is 33-0276892

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HEALTHYLIFESTYLE

MARCH/APRIL 2021

Healthy Alternatives to Mashed Potatoes These vegetable mash recipes are colorful, packed with nutrients, and super delicious.

By Victoria Spencer

Who doesn't love mashed potatoes? They're creamy and comforting, but you're likely well aware of the fact that white potatoes—especially when mixed with cream or milk and lashings of butter—is not the healthiest side dish option. Is there a way to get the smooth comfort of mashed potatoes but up the nutrition or make your recipes a little lighter? Actually, there are lots of ways to do just that, and we're here to share our best mashed vegetable side dishes that you can enjoy at any meal.

Once you're on board with these colorful vegetable mash recipes, don't stop at using them as sides, swap them for mashed potatoes in other favorite family recipes like Shepherd's Pie or Cottage Pie.

Sweet Potato Mash Sure, you can make sweet potato mash like you make regular white mashed potatoes, with boiled tubers, and it's a better-for-you option that tastes great. But if you really want to get the sweetness, roast your sweet potatoes (as opposed to boiling them) before mashing. It takes longer but requires less hands-on work since the oven takes care of the cooking. All you have to do is tackle the mashing.

INGREDIENTS 5 pounds sweet potatoes Extra-virgin olive oil 4 tablespoons melted unsalted butter 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper Using a fork, pierce sweet potatoes all over. Rub with oil; roast at 375 degrees until very soft, 1 to 1 1/2 hours. When they're cool enough to handle, halve and scoop flesh into a bowl. Mash with butter, nutmeg, and salt and pepper.

Kabocha-Cauliflowewr Mash Not only is this recipe colorful and packed with nutrients from that anti-inflammatory and antioxidant powerhouse the cauliflower, and the beta-caroteneand fiber-packed kabocha squash, it's also dairy free. Creamy coconut milk produces a luscious, smooth mash.

INGREDIENTS 2 1/2 pounds kabocha squash (from 1 medium), halved, peeled, seeded, and cut into 2-inch pieces Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper 2 pounds cauliflower (from 1 medium), cored and cut into large florets 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil 2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger (from a 1-inch piece) 2 teaspoons minced garlic (from 2 cloves) 3/4 cup light coconut milk Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, or water, if needed Cook squash in a large pot of simmering (not boiling) salted water 6 minutes.

Add cauliflower; continue simmering until vegetables are very tender, 10 to 12 minutes more. Drain, then return vegetables to pot. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until vegetables appear dry and a film forms on bottom of pot, 3 to 4 minutes. Pass vegetables through a ricer, food mill, or chinois strainer; cover to keep warm.

Heat oil in a saucepan over medium. When it shimmers, add ginger and garlic; cook until fragrant and sizzling, about 30 seconds. Add coconut milk; season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then remove from heat and stir into vegetable mixture until smooth. If mash is too stiff, add broth or water, a few tablespoons at a time. Season with salt and pepper and serve warm.

Credit: Bryan Gardner

Credit: Lennart Weibull

Rutabaga-Sweet Potato Mash with Garlic & Sage Why mash one vegetable when you can make a delicious hybrid that brings twice the nutrition to the table? This velvety mash brings together two of our favorite root vegetables: underrated rutabaga and crowd-pleasing sweet potato. Enriched with butter and cream and flavored with garlic and sage, this is sure to become your new goto winter side dish.

INGREDIENTS 2 pounds rutabaga, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch pieces 2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper 4 tablespoons unsalted butter 2 tablespoons minced garlic (from 5 to 6 cloves) 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh sage leaves 1/2 cup heavy cream In a pot, combine rutabaga and sweet potatoes; cover with water by a few inches and season generously with salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium and cook until easily pierced with the tip of a knife, about 15 minutes. Drain.

Step 2Return pot to medium heat; add butter. When it melts, add garlic and sage; cook 1 minute. Add cream; bring to a simmer, then remove from heat. Return rutabaga and sweet potatoes to pot; mash to desired consistency and season with salt and pepper. Serve.

Cauliflower-Broccoli Mash In case you think vegetable mash is always cream or orange, there's this verdant combo. It's not as smooth as sweet potato or squash mash but it's a delicious way to ring the changes. Bonus: It's dairy-free, but you can feel free to add in cream or butter to make a richer mash if you like.

INGREDIENTS 3 T extra-virgin olive oil 1 large head cauliflower, cut into ¾ inch chunks Chunks 1 small bunch broccoli, trimmed and cut into ¾ inch florets 1 t coarse salt pepper Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add cauliflower, broccoli, and salt.

Cover, and cook, stirring occasionally, until partially tender, about 8 minutes. Add 3/4 cup water, cover, and simmer over medium-high heat until tender and water has mostly evaporated, about 5 minutes. Mash with a potato masher. Season with pepper.

MARCH/APRIL 2021

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IN THE Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve Seeking Volunteers We've received the OK from RivCoParks to share the following information regarding their preparation towards partial re-opening of the Reserve: Volunteer Age Restriction Lifted The earlier COVID-related age 65+ volunteer restriction has been lifted! All individuals 18 and older are welcome, and encouraged, to become a volunteer in support of the Reserve and the Santa Rosa Plateau Nature Education Foundation (SRPNEF).

Allvolunteers must complete an application and be fingerprinted. If you have never volunteered at the Reserve and want to help support the Reserve's partial reopening, send an email today to programs@santarosaplateau.org Subject: Volunteer Partial Reopen If you are a current volunteer with SRPNEF...and have not been fingerprinted, send an email to volunteer@srpnef.org. Subject: I Need to be Fingerprinted Partial Re-Open Can Happen Soon IF More Volunteers Sign Up That's right.... more of the trails can be partially re-opened IF a few more volunteers sign up for 3-4 hour shifts at various external and internal trail stations. Details will be emailed to you. Office - 951-319-2998, 800# - 833-651-1533

Enroll Now for Late-Start Classes that Begin on March 22 at MSJC It's not too late to sign up for Spring 2021 classes at Mt. San Jacinto College (MSJC).

Dozens of 8-week, late-start classes begin on March 22 in varying subjects such as English, math, art, biology, communications, computer information systems, digital media, environmental science, geology, history, music, nutrition, photography, and psychology.

Check out the entire list of the late-start classes at MSJC and enroll now. New students can register here https://www.msjc.edu/enroll/new-students.html Please call (951) 639-5313 or visit www.msjc.edu/latestart. Kick off the spring by transforming your life at MSJC!

Short-Term Vacation Rental Web Portal The City of Murrieta has launched its Short Term Vacation Rental (STVR) web portal, at www.MurrietaCA.gov/stvr, providing 24-hour access to a wide range of tools for STVR hosts and residents.

This follows last October’s City Council adoption of a new STVR ordinance that allows hosted rentals in all residential areas. It also limits non-hosted (whole-house) rentals to Rural Residential (RR) and Estate Residential 1 and 2 (ER-1) and (ER-2) zones and requires a 300-foot separation as measured from all property lines, for the proposed establishment of non-hosted STVRs in the ER-1 and ER-2 zones. The ordinance also establishes enforceable guidelines on parking, noise and the number of guests to protect neighborhood quality-of-life, and caps the number of rentals at 300 citywide.

“Over the past two months, we have invited more than 100 existing STVRs to pre-apply while we worked with our partners at Host Compliance to put the finishing touches on web tools designed to streamline STVR management and ensure that community concerns are addressed,” explains Assistant City Manager Ivan Holler.

Through the City’s web portal, community members and potential hosts can learn about the new City ordinance, view zoning maps, apply for required permits and much more. In addition, neighbors can submit concerns online through the STVR website, or via a 24-hour hotline. Hosts that incur repeated violations may face fines or permit loss.

WildLights is Back - with a Spring Twist!

At the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens Nightly, March 15 - 28 • 6:30 pm - 9:30 pm WildLights of Spring, will delight guests of all ages with light displays, delicious fare, and memorable moments. Tickets are now on sale!

WildLights of Spring will take guests on an illuminated journey around the Zoo with vantages of select animal habitats including the emus of the new Australian Adventures, and new for Spring, a portion of the African Safari loop will be open for guests to see cheetahs, zebras, African wild dogs, and more. Plus, there will be new music for the light zones – including the Tunnel of Lights, Dazzling Gift, and Discovery Center. Guests can take a spin on the carousel and make s’mores around a fire, for an additional fee. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase.

PURCHASE TICKETS: events/wildlights-of-spring/

https://www.livingdesert.org/events/upcoming-zoo-

• Adults $14 | Members $12 | Children $10 - Children (under 3) FREE • Children strollers and adult wheelchairs available for $5 under a first come, first served basis.

• Select WildLights of Spring activities require an additional fee. This event will sell out. All proceeds benefit The Living Desert’s animal care, conservation, and education programs.

The Living Desert will honor unused WildLights 2020 tickets during the WildLights of Spring event. Guests will need to call The Living Desert to exchange their unused ticket(s) for a new date/time. For tickets, exchanges, and more information visit LivingDesert.org or call (760) 346-5694.

Timed-entry tickets help us regulate how many people are in the Zoo at any given time. This helps us provide a safe, socially-distanced evening for all. Once inside the event, guests may stay until the event ends.

A limit has been placed on attendance each evening to ensure proper social distancing, as well as provide a better experience for guests ensuring that large crowds do not form.