Valley News - January 24, 2025 by Village News, Inc.

Temecula Valley Hospital achieves regional first in robotic lung cancer treatment

TEMECULA – Southwest Healthcare Temecula Valley Hospital (TVH) has become the first facility in Southwest Riverside County to successfully diagnose and treat stage 1 lung cancer using a groundbreaking combination of Ion and da Vinci robotic technologies.

EMWD launches ‘Fix-A-Leak’ video contest for students

Car totaled after crashing into fuel tanker on I-15 near Mission Road Fallbrook

northbound Interstate 15 north of Mission Road, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP).

A traffic collision involving a white vehicle that ran into the back of a fuel tanker semi-truck occurred late Sunday night on

The incident was reported at 11:24 p.m. to NCFPD and the CHP when a white vehicle reportedly rear-ended a semi-truck, blocking

the slow lane. A separate vehicle, described as a white Toyota hatchback, was possibly involved and may have fled the scene, per CHP communications, however, the tanker driver said that it was just one car.

Emergency personnel were dispatched, with the first units arriving on the scene at 11:41 p.m.

The #4 lane remained blocked during the response, with traffic control measures initiated near State Route 76. Tow services

from Adams Tow were requested at 11:29 p.m., and the scene was cleared by 11:53 p.m.

It didn’t appear that anyone was transported to the hospital and it is unknown if there were drugs or alcohol involved.

Unpredictable Santa Ana winds shorten Wildomar City Council meeting agenda

Tony Ault Staff Writer

The record-breaking Santa Ana winds in recent days caused intermittent power outages at Wildomar City Hall on Wednesday, Jan. 15. As a result, the city mayor called for a limited City Council meeting that evening.

While there were no power

FOOD from page A-1

help restock their spoiled foods.

On Jan. 13, the Menifee Valley Community Cupboard, 26808 Cherry Hills, Blvd., called for volunteers to help fill the packages of relief foods to the needy Quail Valley residents who learned SCE would not pay for any food losses due to necessary PSPS power shutoffs.

The outstanding volunteer response included many residents and some city council members, who assisted with the packaging and rapid delivery efforts.

Council Member Bob Karwin at the latest city council meeting praised the community for helping package the foods at the for the Quail Valley residents who saw firsthand how Menifee community residents help others in the community during a crisis. There is still a need to continue to replenish the non-perishable foods in the Menifee Community Pantry for more wind-related PSPS food spoilage problems and other emergencies and holiday food and other item giveaways to residents. The cupboard does have a thrift shop that can be contacted at 951672-3278 for current hours and information. Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com

failures during the shortened meeting call by Wildomar Mayor Ashlee DePhilippo and approved by the other council members, the council did appoint new planning commissioners and approved a lengthy 12-item consent calendar.

However, presentations, a Biennial Budget Goals Discussion, cannabis code changes, and naming the criteria for the development of future parks were held until a new meeting or the scheduled February council meeting could be held.

Among the new commissioners named by the individual council members were Rene Cambero, Charles Goldman III, Nolan King, and Brianna Bernard who still need to be sworn into the Planning Commission. Each

member of the council can name their choice for a person to have a limited term as a Planning Commissioner. This year the Planning Commissioner applicants numbered 26.

Among the consent items approved was a resolution for the city manager to execute a fundsharing contract with the Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District to construct the widening of Palomar Street Phase 2; between Wildomar Trail and Lone Lane and a contract with RRM Design Group for the design of the planned 27-acre Park Project on the northeast corner of La Estrella Street and Susan Drive. Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com

Julie Reeder and Brian Briggs Staff

A car is totaled after crashing into the rear end of a

Valley News/Brian Briggs photos

The rear end of the tanker which shows little damage after a car crashed into the rear end of it on Sunday night, Jan. 19.

FEBRUARY

MARCH

Soboba seeks nonprofits and sponsors for charity golf tournament

chosen to be a beneficiary of the 13th Annual Soboba Foundation & Soboba Casino Resort Charity Golf Tournament.

The 13th annual Soboba Foundation & Soboba Casino Resort Charity Golf Tournament is just around the corner and organizers are offering opportunities to get involved with this popular event. Through the generosity of sponsors and partners, the Soboba Charity Golf Tournament has contributed several million dollars to support numerous local nonprofit organizations since its inception.

The Soboba Foundation is now accepting applications from nonprofit organizations to be considered as beneficiaries of this year’s tournament. The Foundation board will choose 10 organizations to receive $10,000 each in funding.

To be eligible for consideration, the entity must be a nonprofit or Tribal organization located within the San Jacinto Valley or one that provides services for the Hemet and San Jacinto communities.

Organizations must complete and submit a nonprofit beneficiary application that can be found at soboba-nsn.gov/sponsorship and submit it via email to Sponsorship Coordinator Andrew Vallejos at avallejos@soboba-nsn.gov

Along with a completed application, each organization must prepare and submit a 30- to 60-second video detailing why the Foundation should consider the organization as a beneficiary and what the funding will be utilized for, if selected.

It is highly recommended that the video be completed as soon as possible because upon submission of a completed application and ensuring all criteria are met, the Sponsorship Coordinator will email a link to the Dropbox. Video submissions must be uploaded to that link by 5 p.m. on Feb. 1, with no exceptions.

Submitted applications and videos will be reviewed by the Soboba Foundation Board of Directors. The Board will choose 10 organizations they deem appropriate to receive $10,000 in funding. All eligible organizations will be notified in writing whether or not they were

All chosen organizations will be required to promote the tournament in addition to providing volunteers for the days of the event for which they will be assigned.

This year’s tournament will be April 7-9 at the Soboba Springs Golf Course.

For those who would like to offer support to the selected nonprofits, there are multiple sponsorship opportunities available. “As we continue to grow, we are thrilled to offer the tournament over three days once again this year, providing even more flexibility for your team,” Tournament Director and SCR General Manager Jason Cozart said. Participation will be on a first-come, first-served basis with only 36 teams accepted each day.

An awards banquet at the SCR Event Center will follow each day’s play, where a grand prize winner of $13,000 in cash will be announced as well as winners of on-the-course games. This is in addition to a huge array of outstanding raffle prizes.

All participants are eligible for a reduced room rate at the Soboba Casino Resort Hotel, providing the perfect opportunity to enjoy the course, festivities, and everything SCR has to offer.

Available sponsorships include the Premium Package that offers for each of four players tournament entry, a $500 Amazon gift card, a $100 SCR gift card, a $100 free slot play voucher for the casino, a 13th-year anniversary premium gift package, and a Tee sign to advertise your support.

A Pair Package includes all the same fantastic items for each of the two players. Tee and Green Sponsorships are also available as well as outright donations and/ or raffle items. To sign up, please visit www.soboba-nsn.gov/sponsorship.

All sponsorships will support the many charitable organizations that are served by the Soboba Foundation throughout the year.

The 13th annual Charity Golf

Tournament is just one way that local nonprofits can be rewarded for the selfless work they do on behalf of their communities. Providing them with much-needed funding is a great way to promote goodwill and help them with the meaningful causes they represent.

Talent shines at Rotary Club of Hemet Music Competition

Diane A. Rhodes Contributor

A dozen high school students took to the stage at St. John’s Lutheran Ministries on Jan. 14 to participate in the 2025 Music Competition, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Hemet. Curt Welshon, a Rotarian since 2012, served as Rotary Chair for the competition. He has served many roles at the club including president from 2014-2016 and again in 2018. The Hemet chapter has been hosting a club-level music competition for five years with a break during COVID.

The competition was open to all high school students in the Hemet and San Jacinto school districts.

The Rotary Club of Hemet provided cash awards of $200 for first place, $100 for second place and $50 for third place in each of the three categories: piano, instrumental and vocal.

Pianist Aster Byrd attends Idyllwild Arts Academy and will move on to the District finals on March 22 at the University of Redlands. The top Instrumentalist, who played the flute, was Shirley Yy and she also attends Idyllwild Arts Academy; she will attend the District finals on March 15. Vocalist Sunny Duane was awarded first place and will compete in the District finals on March 8; she is a student at Tahquitz High School in Hemet.

“A big shout out to St. John’s Lutheran on Columbia to offer up their facility to allow Rotary to have the event,” Welshon said. “Linda Krupa did a great job assisting me with organizing the judges. She was a big help.”

A few areas of focus the judges were looking at were tone quality, technique, interpretation, and general effect stage presence. All three of them were volunteers who were asked by Rotarian Krupa to participate this year. They were Sylvia Alonzo, a club member who enjoys community involvement; Tina Batchelder-Schwab, who works for the Hemet Unified School District as a Performing Arts Coordinator, has a master’s in music education, a Bachelor of Music Education in performing opera and has directed many musicals; and Alexander Yepremian, General Manager of the Historic Hemet Theatre, who has a rich background in performing arts and made significant contributions to both Broadway and the luxury cruise industry.

Welshon said the number of entries varies every year. He depends on local teachers distributing the information to their students and the passion of each student to perform. He was in communication with the local choir and band directors as well as private tutors who expressed interest.

“I send many reminders to those on my distribution lists, encouraging students to express themselves, show off their talent and just maybe win money,” he said. “I depend heavily on the teachers to

encourage their students to show off their individual passion with playing their instrument or vocal skills.”

Along with the winning artists, there were four guitarists, a bass player and a violinist as well as another flautist and two other singers.

“It was a night to remember, and these students performed very well,” Welshon said. “Rotary also gave out $25 participation checks to those contestants that did not place.”

Aside from performing, students went through an interview process where some students suggested they were looking to become professional musicians, while several others showed interest in real estate and mechanical engineering.

Rotary has 61 clubs in District 5330 which covers Indio to Running Springs to Riverside to Temecula and Murrieta and all cities in between. Not all 61 clubs participate in the music competition, but about 15 have active club chair members that take on the responsibility of putting together the music competition.

At the local Rotary Club level,

contestants were required to perform a piece that best demonstrates their talent and musicality. Performances were recommended to be approximately 5-7 minutes in length but could be longer. At the District finals, pianists and instrumentalists must play at least one piece of classical music and singers must perform songs from musical theater and/or classical music. A second piece of music can be the contestant’s choice. However, judges will not accept songs from the country-western, popular, jazz and Christian music genres at the finals. Additionally, pieces must be memorized, and the music score may be requested to be provided to the judges. The entire performance should not exceed 12 minutes for pianists and instrumentalists. Generally, vocal performances should be about two minutes shorter. Rotary Club of Hemet will also pay the finalists’ entry fee for the District-level competition. For more information about Rotary Club of Hemet, please visit www.hemetrotary.org.

Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians

Special to Valley News

Players are welcomed to the 2024 Soboba Foundation & Soboba Casino Resort Charity Golf Tournament before the 10 a.m. shotgun start.

Valley News/Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians photos

Tournament Director and Soboba Casino Resort General Manager Jason Cozart welcomes everyone to the banquet that followed a day on the golf course in 2024.

Aster Byrd took first place in the piano division at the Rotary Club of Hemet Music Competition on Jan. 14 and will compete at the District finals in March. Valley News/Courtesy photos

Shirley Yy played the flute to earn first place as the top instrumentalist at the Rotary Club of Hemet Music Competition and is headed to the District finals.

ness and how even small acts can change someone’s day,” she said.

Being selected as a 2025 Cameron Impact Scholar, Kristi will continue her education to do even more in the future. The prestigious award is a four-year, full-tuition, impactdriven undergraduate scholarship awarded annually to only 10 to 15 exceptional high school students who have demonstrated excellence in leadership, community service, extracurricular activities, a nd academics. The Cameron Impact Scholar is unique among their peers in their desire to directly impact their communities and the world at large. These Scholars aspire to contribute to positive forces for change and plan to tailor their education to that end. The Cameron Impact Scholarship covers the full tuition, fees, and books at any accredited U.S. based college or university that the recipient chooses to attend. To learn more, visit www. bryancameroneducationfoundation.org

“I never thought I’d be a competitive applicant for opportunities like this, but I decided to apply anyway because you never know what could happen,” Kristi said. “Winning the scholarship was more than just an honor – it built my confidence in my work and reminded me that taking a chance on myself can lead to incredible opportunities.”

She hopes to attend UCLA to major in biology as a first step to becoming a pediatrician. Born and raised in San Jacinto, the 17-year-old senior at San Jacinto Leadership Academy has made a huge impact at the campus she has attended since sixth grade.

“In fifth grade, I wanted a school where I could stand out and challenge myself – and honestly, I was a lso really excited about wearing a uniform because it meant I wouldn’t have to pick out outfits every day,” she said. “SJLA felt like the kind of place where I could grow and push myself, and it turned out to be exactly that.”

Kristi founded the Diversity Club and Guiding Lions program during her sophomore and junior years, inspired by a desire to create spaces where students could feel seen, supported, and empowered. She said the Diversity Club began as a way to celebrate and embrace the unique cultures within the school, fostering a sense of belonging and understanding among students.

“Guiding Lions was born from a passion for mentorship – I wanted to connect struggling younger students with upperclassmen mentors to help them succeed academically and personally,” she said. “My goal for both initiatives was to leave a lasting impact on our school community by building a culture of inclusivity and support that would continue even after I graduated. The most rewarding part has been

Altie Holcomb who also ran for that seat in the 2022 election. The majority won the vote with Estrada voting no.

The argument that Diederich was the best choice out of seven applicants for the council seat was because of his long years on the city’s Planning Commission who knew the issues now facing the city, and because of that, would be up-to-date on those issues. Estrada argued that Holcomb, who has lived in the district a long time, was more aware of the citizens’ needs in the Quail Valley area and would not be afraid to bring those issues up to the council as a whole in the future. He would be amicable to changes in the city government to govern the newest arrivals to the city, which now numbers close to 120,000 people.

At the start of the city council meeting, Gloria Sanchez, by the council, was given the honor of becoming the 2024 Citizen of the Year out of the 12 Citizens of the Month named last year. Sanchez is most likely known by residents in Menifee and the valley for her untiring work, not only with the seniors of Menifee in Sun City but the youth and other residents throughout the city. She was in attendance at every important event taking place in the city for many years.

As an example, Sanchez serves on the city’s Senior Advisory Board, works as an instructor and department co-chair at Mt. San Jacinto College, is a member of the Rotary Club, and has received numerous awards for the service from the California Highway Patrol and the California Office of Traffic Safety.

watching students grow into confident leaders and knowing these programs have truly made a difference in their lives.”

Kristi said the school’s structure helped her learn discipline in ways she had not experienced before, such as managing her time to balance leadership responsibilities with academics and knowing how to stay composed under pressure.

“It also taught me when to take things seriously, like showing respect during flag ceremonies or presentations, and when it was okay to let loose and have fun with my peers. That balance has been invaluable,” she said. “Leadership, to me, isn’t just about taking charge; it’s about recognizing opportunities to make a positive difference and taking action.”

Since January 2024, she has served as vice president of the Graduation Committee, as this spring will mark SJLA’s first senior class commencement ceremony. But Kristi’s willingness to help others goes beyond her campus.

When she learned a peer was struggling with food insecurity, she decided to do something about it. After researching the issue, she found that a large percentage of residents in the San Jacinto Valley are either low-income or unhoused, and she felt called to help in the best way that she could. She created Supplies for Humanity, a student-led nonprofit focused on addressing food insecurity in her community. She works with a dedicated team of student volunteers from schools throughout the valley.

“We’ve been able to help with the needs of our own neighbors and in turn strengthen the bonds within our community,” Kristi said.

“So far, we’ve donated thousands of nonperishables to Valley Community Pantry, around 40 fully equipped backpacks, and 60-plus completely stuffed Christmas stockings to San Jacinto Unified School District for their foster or homeless students, and we’ve serviced 70-plus families with essential resources. Seeing the genuine relief and gratitude in a parent’s eyes when they receive the essentials their family desperately needs, knowing we’ve made a real difference in their lives, is so rewarding.”

During February, Supplies for Humanity is partnering with a local transitional housing nonprofit that provides housing and support for young adults from 18-21 as they work toward independence. Kristi said her group will be collecting items and assembling self-care baskets for about a dozen people the program serves.

“This event is inspired by our hygiene kits initiative but with a more p ersonal touch,” she said. “We thought to use thoughtful, personalized self-care baskets instead of our usual plastic bags. The baskets will include items like shampoo, conditioner, body wash, skin care products, cozy socks, journals, and

That evening she was presented proclamations, not only by the city council but also by state and federal elected officials. At the end of the ceremony, Sanchez said she was humbled by the honor of being the Citizen of the Year and gave a shout-out to many others in the community who helped her in her efforts to make Menifee a better place. She said, “It is you who make things happen.”

Nine residents shared public comments on the night’s agenda or non-agenda items that ran from requesting the new council take an active role in the efforts of Habitat for Humanity to weed abatement issues in Romoland and wasteful spending in the city budget.

A slate of new commission and committee members were named by the sitting council members. The new commission and committee members were sworn in by the city clerk that evening.

Mayor Estrada pulled two consent items for discussion regarding upcoming street repairs in the city. Those items, 10.5 and 10.6 included a planned flood control culvert needed on Garbani Road to be constructed by TKE Engineering for $297,789 to be paid for with federal and state flood control money and and the construction of a needed westbound turn pocket extension on McCall Blvd. and Sun City Blvd. Currently more than half dozen cars at a time crowd McCall Blvd. in busy times of the day creating a traffic hazard. That pocket will be extended to handle as much as a dozen cars at a time. Work on that extension may start next month.

Both items were approved by the council. Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com.

even small gift cards – things that help these young adults feel cared for and supported as they transition into the next stage of their lives.”

If anyone in the community is interested in donating or participating in this event, they can send an email to suppliesforhumanity@ gmail.com to learn more.

“I’m most looking forward to spending my final semester with the younger students I’ve mentored and seeing them grow into leaders,” Kristi said. “It’s bittersweet to pass the torch, but I’m excited to finalize the next generation of board members for Supplies for Humanity and the other clubs I’ve started. Knowing these programs will continue to thrive and make an impact after I graduate is the perfect way to close this chapter and step into the next.”

She credits her mother, psychologist Toni Ellis-Chadha, with greatly shaping her outlook on life through her examples of resilience, perseverance and bravery. “She has taught me that success is attainable with determination and hard work, no matter the obstacles,” she said. “Through her impactful actions and support, my mother has instilled in me the belief that I can overcome any challenge. Her commitment to enhancing my family’s life and her tireless pursuit of greater opportunities for her children have profoundly influenced me.”

Kristi’s mother was born and raised in Los Angeles and her father, Dharm Chadha, became the CEO of a wholesale market in Los Angeles after being born and raised in Northern India.

When Kristi is not in school or busy with her community projects, she takes advantage of every opportunity to learn. Last September, she was accepted into the New York Academy of Sciences: Junior Academy Program (NYASJA).

This is a highly selective internationally remote STEM program with a global acceptance rate of only 8 percent.

In NYASJA, applicants are required to create a solution to a challenge assigned by the NYAS with a team of six, using STEM.

One of the Fall 2024 challenges was Ethical AI and Kristi chose it because she had taken online machine learning, coding, and AI programming courses at MIT, where she learned that many AI systems used in healthcare have socioeconomic biases.

“Additionally, I had conducted prior research during the Summer of 2024 as an intern with ThinkNeuro,” she said. “My research findings revealed that rural and underserved areas suffer the most from disadvantaged healthcare. Combining my MIT knowledge with my ThinkNeuro findings, I proposed the idea of ‘Docubot’ to NYASJA.”

Docubot is a telehealth tool designed to provide remote healthcare resources to underserved communities, specifically focusing on eliminating racial and economic bias within AI systems.

“What motivates me to keep reaching out is the ripple effect – knowing that even the smallest act of kindness can create waves far beyond what I’ll ever see. When I help someone, whether it’s through a care package or a word of encouragement, I know it doesn’t stop there. They carry that kindness forward, impacting others in ways I might never know. That thought keeps me going – believing that every action, no matter how small, has the potential to change a life and inspire others to do the same.” For more information, www. suppliesforhumanity.com , on Facebook at Supplies for Humanity and on Instagram @ suppliesforhumanity.

As part of the Supplies for Humanity Hygiene Kit Initiative, volunteers collected donations and assembled kits with more than 1,000 hygiene items for Valley Community Pantry clients in September. Valley News/Courtesy photos

Supplies for Humanity volunteers filled and

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

To submit an upcoming community event, email it to valleyeditor@reedermedia.com, put “attention events” in the subject line.

CHILDREN’S EVENTS

Please check the webpages for the city you live in for the latest events happening for children and youths in your community this summer. There are many youth sports programs, educational programs, city park entertainment and more to keep children of all ages occupied and interested. ValleyWide Recreation also has many children’s activities. Please visit www.gorecreation.org.

Jan 29 – 2-3 p.m. Middle School Hangout for grades 6-8 at the Menifee Library. 28798 La Piedra Road, Menifee

Feb. 14 – 7-9 p.m. Teen Activity Night for Valentines Day at Lazy Creek Recreation Center, 26480 Lazy Creek Road, Menifee. $5 per teen. Includes Pizza, games and cookie art. See www.cityofmenifee.US/teens

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Jan. 23 – 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Familyland Resource Fair at Harvest Elementary School, 29955 Watson Road, Romoland. Family resource center, family fun activities. Email hopecollab@fsaca.org or call 951686-3750

Jan. 24 – 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Warm Center at Mary Phillips Senior Center, 41845 6th St. Temecula is now open through the Riverside Community Action Partnership for a safe place for vulnerable individuals, seniors, people with disabilities and others for temporary relief of the cold. Monday through Friday.

Jan. 24- 25 – 9 a.m. to noon City of Temecula is partnering with Mission of Hope in honoring Martin Luther King Jr. in hosting a weeklong donation drive for residents to give back to those in need through generous contributions of both non-perishable food items and essential personal care products. Donations will be accepted at the Welcome Center, located at 28690 Mercedes Street, Suite 101, during designated hours. The hours vary but will accept non-perishable foods and essentials that will be distributed to individuals and families in need throughout the community.

Jan. 27 – 6 p.m. Searching for Ameilia Earhart’s Plane will be the subject of a Temecula Valley Historical Society Program at the intersection of Margarita Road, one block south of the Temecula Parkway in the little red schoolhouse. Lloyd Romero, project manager for Deep Sea Vision will make the presentation with photos and information.

Jan. 28 - 10:30 a.m. Library for All including an event for special needs residents at the Menifee Library. 28798 La Piedra Road, Menifee. Jigsaw puzzles and decorations.

Jan. 28 - March 25 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Free English classes for parents of children 2 to 12 to begin through the Romoland School District and the Riverside University Health System at Mesa View Elementary School, 27227 Heritage Lake Drive in Romoland. Registration through RUHS or Romoland School District.

Feb. 4 - March 16 – 10 a.m.

I Am a Man photographs of the Civil Rights Movement 19601970 offered at the Temecula Valley Museum, 28314 Mercedes Street, Temecula. to view a special exhibit in honor of American Black History Month hosted by the museum and the City of Temecula Community Services Department.

Feb. 6 – 7:30-8 p.m. Chloe Arnold’s Syncopated Ladies: live at the Old Town Temecula Community Theater, 42051 Main Street, Temecula. A mixed media concert featuring a diverse all-female cast celebrating sisterhood, the power of joy, and tap dance! Created for theatergoers of all ages,Chloé Arnold’s Syncopated Ladies will offer a free, ninety-minute master class during their residencySpace is limited, so please contact the Ticket Office to register at 1.866.

OLD.TOWN .866.653.8696.

Feb. 12 – 8-10 a.m. Coffee With a Cop in Menifee at Starbucks, 27559 Newport Road. Menifee.

Feb. 15 – 12 noon - Joy Miller will give a gallery talk on the I Am A MAN photographs of the civil rights movement at the Temecula Valley Museum, 28314 Mercedes Street, Temecula Winter 2025 – Adult Class offerings through the Menifee Community Services at www. cityofmenifee.us/register for more information. Includes: Ballet Folklorico, driving lessons, Hula

Tahitian dance, piano lessons, pickleball lessons, and Taekwando.

ONGOING – Saturdays, 8 a.m. to noon. The Sun City Farmers Market meets every Saturday at the Sun City Civic Association at 26850 Sun City Blvd., in Sun City with local vendors and crafts.

ONGOING – Riverside Transportation Commission is offering Park and Ride lots to connect with carpools, vanpools and transit systems in Beaumont at 600 E. Sixth Street; in San Jacinto at 501 S. San Jacinto Avenue and in Temecula at Grace Presbyterian Church, 31143 Nicolas Road, open from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. but not on weekends.

ONGOING – Line dancing classes are held Wednesdays from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at Lake Elsinore/ Wildomar Elks Lodge, 33700 Mission Trail, in Wildomar across from the Animal Friends of the Valleys. Classes have a DJ with learning levels beginning to intermediate. Have fun and exercise at the same time at $5 per lesson. Contact Joyce Hohenadl at 951674-2159.

ONGOING – Sun City Civic Association Monthly Square Dance sessions are held Sundays from 1:30-5 p.m. at 26850 Sun City Boulevard.

ONGOING – If you know a homebound older adult, resources in Menifee are available, including grab-and-go, cooked and frozen food for pickup. Courtesy pantry items and meals delivered with no contact. Three days of emergency food can be delivered immediately or restaurant meal delivery for those who don’t qualify for food assistance programs. Call the California Department on Aging at 800-510-2020 for help.

ONGOING – Saturdays and Sundays only, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The Temecula Winchester Swap Meet continues, 33280 Newport Road in Winchester. The small local swap meet is only 50 cents for entry, and anyone under age 10 is free admission. No dogs allowed.

ONGOING – 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Every Sunday, Murrieta Village Walk Farmers Market is at Village Walk Place in Murrieta. The Sunday morning farmers market at Village Walk Plaza is a place to buy fruits and veggies, gourmet food and

in the northwest

of Kalmia/ Cal

Crossword Puzzle - Theme: Super Bowl

in Murrieta. ONGOING – Temecula’s Farmers Markets are offered in Old Town Temecula Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to noon, 4100 Main Street in Temecula; at Promenade Temecula, 40640 Winchester Road, outside JCPenney every Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and at Vail Headquarters, 32115 Temecula Parkway, every Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. In compliance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Riverside County Public Health orders, the farmers markets will be restricted to agriculture products only. Follow the Old Town Temecula Farmers Market on Facebook to stay updated. No pets allowed.

WORKSHOPS, MEETINGS, NOTICES

Jan. 25 – 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Free hands-on rose pruning workshop at Rose Haven Heritage Garden, 30592 Jedediah Smith Road, Temecula . Learn how to properly prune your roses and care for your tools. Hosted by the Temecula Valley Rose Society.

Jan. - May – 10 a.m. or 6 p.m.

The new free Thrive Temecula program by the Community Services Department begins on various dates in an effort to improve the wellness of the community offering methods to live a healthy lifestyle through active living, education and community resources. The free classes and workshops will be at different parks and locations. The first will be held at 10 a.m. during a E Bike Safety Workshop with other workshops through May 17 ranging from self defense to a kids healthy cooking workshop. For times, dates and locations make contact @TemeculaParkandRec on Instagram and Facebook. Want to receive electronic newsletters to stay informed on events, programs, and offerings? Visit TemeculaCA.gov/ TCSDNews to sign up.

ONGOING – 10 a.m. The Temecula Valley Republican Women’s Club meets each month at the Wilson Creek Winery, 33960 Rancho California Road, Temecula. Memberships are now open. For questions, please contact Membership Chair Janine Plano at info@ tvrwomen.org

ONGOING – Temecula Valley Genealogical Society hosts the Family History Research Assistance Program for those interested in learning more about their family roots. The society offers free research assistance through this volunteer program. Appointments are available in person or via Zoom. Contact the TVGS Family Research Coordinator at tvgs. research.assist@gmail.com

ONGOING – Temecula’s Path of Honor at the Temecula Duck Pond, 28250 Ynez Road. A program to give a place to remember and honor veterans from the U.S. Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard and the World War II Merchant Marines with a permanent paver. Pavers cost $185. Orders may be placed year-round and are consolidated, engraved and placed on the path annually each November. For more information, visit http://TemeculaCA.gov/ Veterans or contact the Temecula Community Services Department at 951-694-6480.

ONGOING – Want to help deployed American troops remotely? Help shop for the most needed items without leaving home as an easy way to help support deployed men and women by purchasing items remotely and having them delivered to MilVet at designated drop-off locations for packing. All items on the list are special requests from deployed military men and women. MilVet is a nonprofit organization that holds monthly packaging events at different community locations in the area. For drop-off locations and packaging locations, visit www.milvet.org/

military-care-packages.

ONGOING – Assistance

League of Temecula Valley hosts a meeting for its member volunteers and guests every first Tuesday of the month (dark in July) at their facility at 28720 Via Montezuma, Temecula at 9:30 a.m. social and 10 a.m. meeting. The meeting room is adjacent to the thrift shop. Anyone interested in exploring volunteering or learning more about the organization is welcome to attend. Email altemecula@ yahoo.com for more information.

ONGOING – Multiple Sclerosis Support Group meets the third Monday of each month at the Mary Phillips Senior Center, 41845 Sixth Street, in Temecula from 10 a.m. to noon. For more information, email gaugustin206@gmail. com or join the meeting.

ONGOING – Sons of Norway/ Scandinavia meets at noon the first Saturday of every month, September to June, at the Heritage Mobile Park Clubhouse, 31130 S. General Kearny Road, in Temecula.

ONGOING – Menifee Community Services offers online driver’s education courses for a fee of $21.95. The course includes animated driving scenarios, instructional videos, sample tests, licensed instructor available to answer questions, DMV-approved certificate of completion with all lectures and exams completed from home. Designed for students and does not include behind-thewheel instruction or a California driver’s permit. Contact 951-7233880 or visit the city of Menifee to register at www.cityof menifee.us ONGOING – 10-11:30 a.m. Michelle’s Place Cancer Resource Center and The Elizabeth Hospice host a virtual support meeting for caregivers every second and fourth week of the month via Zoom. Get helpful tips and learn from others who are also dealing with similar challenges. For more information and to register, contact The Elizabeth Hospice Grief Support Services at 833-349-2054.

ONGOING – Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous, a free 12step recovery program for anyone suffering from food obsession, overeating, undereating or bulimia, has meetings throughout the U.S. and the world. Contact 781932-6300, or for local meetings, call 925-321-0170 or visit www. foodaddicts.org.

ONGOING – The Murrieta Garden Club meets each month at the Murrieta Community Center, 41810 Juniper St. Anyone who likes to garden or is interested in plants is welcome. Membership is $10 per year. Find more information about the monthly event or project on Facebook.

ONGOING – Temecula Valley Rose Society meets each month. For more information and new meeting dates and places, visit www.temeculavalleyrosesociety. org

ONGOING – Menifee Toastmasters meets every Thursday at noon for one hour at a designated place to have fun, enhance speaking capabilities, gain self-confidence and improve social skills. For new dates, call 760-807-1323 or visit www.MenifeeToastmasters.org for more information. ONGOING – Homeless veterans can receive free help by dialing 877-424-3838 for 24/7 access to the VA’s services for homeless, at-risk veterans. Chat is confidential for veterans and friends. Visit www.va.gov/homeless.

ONGOING – The Dorland Scribblers meet the second Sunday of each month from 1-3 p.m. at 36701 Highway 79 South, Temecula. We welcome fiction, non-fiction, poets, memoir and screenwriters. We host writingcraft discussions; attendees may read up to a five-minute excerpt from their work for feedback/ critique. RSVP at www.dorlandartscolony.com/sunday-scribblers. html.

Temecula celebrates American Black History Month at the Old Town Temecula Community Theater and the Temecula Valley Museum

TEMECULA – The City of Temecula Community Services Department, including the Temecula Valley Museum, and the Old Town Temecula Community Theater, join the nation as we recognize and commemorate American Black History Month with programming to provide a meaningful opportunity for our community to reflect on the past, honor the legacy of those who fought for change, and celebrate the ongoing contributions of African Americans to our society.

Chloé Arnold’s Syncopated Ladies: Live is a groundbreaking mixed media concert featuring a diverse all-female cast celebrating sisterhood, the power of joy, and tap dance! Created for theatergoers of all ages, it is an electrifying oneof-a-kind dance and storytelling experience. Get to know the ladies as they each share their inspiring journeys to reach for their dreams through the art of tap dance. With their fierce footwork and spectacular pop concert production, the ladies motivate audiences to pursue their dreams with courage, determination, and love, no matter the obstacles.

Founded by Emmy Nominated Choreographer, Chloé Arnold, whose choreography has been featured in hit television shows such as So You Think You Can Dance, Good Morning America, and The Ellen Show, to name a few. Don’t miss the pre-talk show from 7:30 to 7:45 p.m. in the Dance Studio.

Chloé Arnold’s Syncopated Ladies will offer a free, ninety-minute master class during their residency on Saturday, Feb. 8 at 1 p.m. This is your opportunity to study with world-class, professional dancers. This class is open to all dance experiences and levels. Space is limited, so please contact the Ticket Office to register at 1-866-OLDTOWN (1-866-653-8696).

The City of Temecula Community Services Department and the Temecula Valley Museum are

proud to host the exhibition, I AM

A MAN: Photographs of the Civil Rights Movement, 1960–1970 in honor of American Black History Month. This exhibition, which opens Feb. 4 and will remain on display until March 16 can be viewed in the second-floor gallery of the Temecula Valley Museum. The City of Temecula is dedicated to acknowledging the importance of this month and the poignant history of the Civil Rights Movement. I AM A MAN: Photographs of the Civil Rights Movement, 1960–1970 display a wide range of photographs taken by amateurs, local photojournalists, and internationally known photographers. Together, they provide a vivid visual

story of the evolution of the civil rights movement and shed light on the movement’s integration into daily living in the American South.

In conjunction with this exhibit, the Museum will be hosting a gallery talk about the Civil Rights Movement featuring Joy Miller, a lecturer at CSU San Marcos and current doctoral student at UC San Diego specializing in African American History on Feb. 15 from 12 to 1:30 p.m. at the Temecula Valley Museum.

Temecula’s Celebration of American Black History is a collective celebration and remembrance of the many important contributions African Americans have had in every chapter of our

nation’s story. Please support the Temecula Valley Museum, Old Town Temecula Community Theater, and Temecula’s Community Services Department as we continue to grow this engaging, entertaining, and educational celebration.

For information on all upcoming events, activities, and programs from Temecula’s Community Services Department, please visit TemeculaCA.gov/TCSD and follow @TemeculaParksandRec on social media for updates.

Chloé Arnold’s Syncopated Ladies: Live will be performing on Saturday, Feb. 8 at the Old Town Temecula Community Theater.

The exhibit “I AM A MAN: Photographs of the Civil Rights Movement, 19601970” will be hosted at the Temecula Valley Museum and will run from Feb. 4 to March 16. Valley News/Courtesy photos

Top scams to watch out for this tax season

tics, the goal is the same – to have you give them money or access to it. Here are scams to look out for this tax season:

The days of filing paper tax returns are gone, and criminals are taking advantage. With taxpayers managing their sensitive information online, thieves are finding new ways to scam victims. In 2023 alone, the IRS reported $5.5 billion lost to tax fraud schemes. And the increased prevalence of artificial intelligence means tax scams this year will likely be more sophisticated than ever. Scammers have an arsenal of weapons, but no matter their tac-

prompting the victim to share information – and possibly bank account numbers – to claim it.

the victim’s personal information for tax forms they never intend to file.

Social media scams . Social media serves as a great place for criminals to find potential victims and carry out tax scams, fraudulently claiming to offer different types of services or possessing unique knowledge or access.

Recovery scams. Once a victim is scammed, criminals will try to strike again – believing the victim is gullible. Exploiting a time of vulnerability, they’ll contact the victim with promises of helping them recover their losses and will leverage this as an opening to commit additional crimes.

While it is not always easy to pick out a scam, here are indicators to watch for:

Promise of a big pay-out. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Request for your account information. The IRS will never ask for your credit or debit account information over the phone.

links can take you to harmful sites instead of IRS.gov.

The IRS recommends these best practices to protect against tax fraud:

Get an early start. File early so criminals have less time to impersonate you.

Set up a verified account. Set up your own IRS account before someone else can and use an Identity Protection PIN – a sixdigit number known only to you and the IRS.

Wait for written notice. Do not respond to any supposed communications from the IRS if you haven’t first received official notification through U.S. mail.

If you get a call from someone claiming to be the IRS, hang up and call the official number on the website before engaging. Further, never click a link sent digitally as initial contact.

Apply good cyber hygiene

Do not use public Wi-Fi when filing your tax returns. Do use strong passwords, secured network connections and multif actor authentication. Run all software updates and keep systems current.

Tax avoidance scams. These scams often promise rewards too good to be true. Scammers claim to have specialized knowledge on exploiting loopholes to avoid taxes or maximize returns. Highincome filers are heavily targeted through offers of seemingly legitimate annuities or tax shelters. Refund scams. In this scam, a criminal will claim to be someone official notifying of an unclaimed or incorrectly calculated refund,

Violation scams. This is a fearbased scam, where the criminal poses as an IRS official threatening some punitive action, claiming the victim committed a violation and needs to contact them to resolve the situation.

Random contact . The IRS contacts taxpayers by mail first and will never contact via random phone calls or digital means. The IRS will not leave prerecorded, urgent, or threatening voicemails.

Demands or threats. The IRS can’t revoke your driver’s license, business license or immigration status and cannot threaten to immediately bring in local law enforcement. Taxpayers are allowed an appeals process, so any message of “now or else” won’t come from an official channel.

If you fall victim to a tax scam, report it to the IRS. For more scam protection tips, visit PNC’s Security & Privacy Center at pnc.com.

One wrong click can cause tremendous damage that ends up earning bad guys a windfall. However, a little caution can go a long way in helping you avoid a costly tax scam.

Filing support scams. Similar to tech support scams, criminals offer to help create IRS accounts to assist with the online filing process. Frequently posing as tax preparers, scammers will go through the motions of gathering

Requ est for you to click a weblink. Odd or misspelled web

meetings a month.

The per diem pay for Eastern Municipal Water District directors has been increased.

A 5-0 EMWD board vote January 15 approved an increase from $258 to $267 for each board meeting or other meeting involving EMWD business a board member attends. Board members can collect per diem pay for up to 10

Eastern’s Administrative Code allows for a per diem increase of up to 5% each calendar year, and the per diem pay may be rounded up to the nearest whole dollar. Rather than utilizing the entire 5% increase, which would have equated to $271 per meeting, the board opted to use the 3.3% cost of living increase which is utilized for EMWD employees.

EMWD staff surveyed 11 other

water and sanitation districts in Riverside County, Orange County, and southern Los Angeles County to determine board member per diem for those districts. The $258 EMWD directors had been receiving was the fourth-lowest. Rancho California Water District members received $245 for each board or other meeting involving RCWD business they attended, Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District directors had a per diem pay of

$244.13, and the Coachella Valley Water District per diem was $223. The next-highest amount above the new EMWD figure is the $296.40 Beaumont-Cherry Valley Water District board members receive, and the Western Municipal Water District and Orange County Sanitation District per diem of $300 is immediately above that. Joe Naiman can be reached at jnaiman@reedermedia.com.

TEMECULA – Rancho California Water District announces its first-place win in the prestigious 2024 Civic Experience Awards, presented by CivicPlus. This annual program honors exceptional local government leaders, departments, and municipalities that elevate civic experiences to drive greater community participation, improve satisfaction, and foster stronger, safer, and more sustainable communities.

Rancho Water was recognized for its innovative emergency water shutdown alert system, launched in December 2023, which has significantly improved communication with custom -

ers during critical water outages. The initiative includes a user-friendly website feature that allows customers to track the status of repairs in real time. By integrating visual graphics and multilingual icons, Rancho Water has empowered residents to stay informed without the need for phone calls, streamlining operations and reducing stress during water shutdown emergencies.

As part of the award, Rancho Water received a $1,500 charitable contribution, which it has proudly pledged to Inland SoCal United Way. This organization, serving over one million residents in Riverside, San Bernardino,

and East Los Angeles Counties, mobilizes communities to promote resiliency, financial security, and health. The contribution will support Inland SoCal United Way’s impactful programs, including rental and utility assistance for Riverside County residents through its United Lift program, one of several programs that Rancho Water recommends for customers facing financial difficulties.

“Winning the Civic Experience Award is an incredible honor, and we’re thrilled that our efforts to improve customer communication during emergency water shutdowns have been recognized on a

B USINESS D IRECTORY

national scale,” said Brian Brady, Rancho Water Board President. “We are equally proud to contribute to Inland SoCal United Way, which shares our commitment to building a stronger, more resilient community.”

The Civic Experience Award underscores Rancho Water’s dedication to delivering exceptional service and fostering a culture of innovation. By continuously improving its systems and prioritizing transparency, Rancho Water sets a high standard for public service in the water utility sector.

Submitted by Rancho California Water District.

Joe Naiman Special to Valley News

Valley News/scyther5 photo (iStock via Getty Images Plus)

Southwest Healthcare Temecula Valley Hospital achieves regional first in robotic lung cancer treatment

The milestone case involved patient Kipp Petry, whose earlystage lung cancer was detected through a coordinated effort between primary care physician Dr. Curtiss Combs, pulmonologist Dr. David Lee using the Ion robotic bronchoscopy system, and thoracic surgeon Dr. Samer Kanaan performing the da Vinci robotic surgical resection.

“That Ion robot caught this so quick, that’s why I’m sitting here now,” says Petry. “If it wasn’t for this technology, I wouldn’t be here. These guys saved my life.”

The Ion robotic bronchoscopy platform enables physicians to detect lung cancer at its earliest stages through minimally invasive biopsy procedures. When combined with the da Vinci surgical system, this technology provides

patients with advanced diagnostic and treatment options previously unavailable in the region.

“This achievement demonstrates our commitment to bringing cutting-edge medical technology to our community,” says Hong Min, CEO of Temecula Valley Hospital. “Early detection and treatment are crucial in fighting lung cancer, and these robotic systems help make that possible.”

To watch Kipp Petry’s full video testimony, visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JlYKUN6fctI

The hospital encourages community members to assess their lung cancer risk through their online assessment tool.

Temecula Valley Hospital, part of Southwest Healthcare, brings advanced technology, innovative programs, patientcentered and family-sensitive care to area residents. The hospital features 140 private patient rooms; emergency care; advanced cardiac and stroke care; orthopedics; general and surgical specialties.

For more information, please visit SWHtemeculavalley.com.

Michelle’s Place invites the community to its inaugural annual meeting

TEMECULA — Michelle’s Place Cancer Resource Center is excited to announce its Inaugural Annual Meeting on Feb. 13 and cordially invites the community to join us for an informative and uplifting morning. The event will take place at the City of Temecula Civic Center, located at 41000 Main Street, Temecula, CA 92590.

From 8:30 to 10 a.m., enjoy a warm cup of coffee or tea and light breakfast refreshments while we take a moment to reflect on the impactful work Michelle’s Place has accomplished in 2024, thanks to the unwavering support of our generous donors and community partners.

This event will provide a comprehensive overview of our organization’s financial standing, program updates, and inspiring client stories that highlight the significant difference Michelle’s Place continues to make in the lives of individuals and families affected by cancer. We are committed to sharing our progress, as well as future goals for 2025 and beyond.

The Inaugural Annual Meeting is a vital opportunity for stakeholders, supporters, and community members to engage with the organization, ask questions, and learn

how we are advancing our mission to provide compassionate support and resources for those impacted by cancer.

RSVP is required by Feb. 10.

Please reserve your spot by visiting MichellesPlace.org/Events.

“We are thrilled to come together with our community to celebrate the successes of the past year and share the vision we have for the future,” said Kim Gerrish, Executive Director of Michelle’s Place. “This meeting allows us to connect with those who have been integral to our mission and provide transparency about the impact of their support.”

For more information about the event or Michelle’s Place, please visit MichellesPlace.org..

Michelle’s Place is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and the only All-Cancer resource center serving the Counties of San Bernardino, Riverside, North San Diego County, and surrounding areas. Founded in 2001 as a breast cancer resource center, Michelle’s Place expanded in 2018 to offer support to individuals and families impacted by any type of cancer.

The organization is dedicated to providing comprehensive cancer resources, including educational programs, emotional support,

6 lawsuits target fluoride overexposure, marketing of children’s toothpaste

Matt McGregor

The Epoch Times

Parents filed multiple lawsuits on Jan. 13 against toothpaste companies alleging that fluoride in their children’s dental products poses dangerous health risks.

Michael Connett, lead attorney with law firm Siri and Glimstad, is representing parents on six class action complaints.

Two of the complaints are against Colgate-Palmolive Company over its toothpaste “aggressively marketed to children” and another is against Hello Products for its candy- and fruit-flavored fluoride mouthwashes conveying the impression that they’re safe for children while being highly toxic if swallowed.

The other four of the six lawsuits, which Connett posted about on social media platform X, make similar arguments that the products designed to appeal to children bring hazardous risks.

“These companies are responsible for over-exposing millions of young children to dangerous levels of fluoride,” he said.

The companies named in the lawsuits didn’t respond to requests for comment by publication time.

“These lawsuits are not about whether fluoride toothpaste should be available to those who want

it,” Connett said. “They are about companies that mislead consumers into believing these products are harmless to young children.”

The lawsuit against Colgate-Palmolive argues that the company’s toothpaste marketed to children is deceptive in that it leads parents to believe that the product is safe.

The lawsuit cites the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, which has stated that fluoride toothpaste must be kept “out of the reach of children under 6 years of age” and that it must be used under supervision to “minimize swallowing.”

It cites the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which has stated that children under age 2 should not use fluoride.

It also cites the American Academy of Pediatrics and other dental associations that agree with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on the protocol for 2-year-old children using only a “smear,” and children ages 3 to 6 using only a “pea-sized” amount of fluoride toothpaste.

Although Colgate agrees with the associations’ recommendations, the company still resorts to using “misleading and aggressive” marketing tactics “to encourage kids, and their caregivers, to use far more than the safe and recomsee TOOTHPASTE, page A-10

wellness services, comfort, and practical assistance, all aimed at improving the quality of life for those facing cancer.

Currently, Michelle’s Place serves approximately 4,000 cancer patients and provides more than 14,000 no-cost programs and resources annually. All programs and services are offered at no cost to the community, empowering cancer patients and their families with a network of services designed to make their cancer journey a little bit easier. Michelle’s Place remains committed to being a vital support system for those affected by cancer in Southern California.

Submitted by Michelle’s Place.

Patient and Veteran Kipp Petry, with service dog Maggie during filming at Temecula Valley Hosptial.

Valley News/Courtesy photo

Basso, Bowers Ladouceur play in first Sockers alumni game in Oceanside

Joe Naiman

Special to Valley News

The San Diego Sockers’ first alumni game at Frontwave Arena in Oceanside was held Jan. 5 and included Temecula resident Carlos Basso and Murrieta residents Sean Bowers and Jacques Ladouceur.

Team Gold which included Basso and Bowers played Team Blue during halftime of the 2024-25 Sockers’ game against the Chihuahua Savage. A total of 21 former Sockers players participated in the alumni game.

“That was very nice,” Basso said.

“It was awesome. It was great to have everybody back,” Bowers said.

“It was a great experience,” Ladoudeur said. “The organization always does a great job.”

The San Diego Sockers began in the outdoor North American Soccer League in 1978 and first played indoors at the San Diego Sports Arena in 1980. The Sockers ceased operations in 1996, but a new San Diego Sockers franchise began play in 2001. That team was terminated in 2004 and the current Sockers franchise began

TOOTHPASTE from page A-9

mended amount of fluoride toothpaste,” the lawsuit states.

“One of the misleading and aggressive marketing tactics that Colgate uses is to show ‘pictures of fruit with flavoring to match,’ which is a common signal to a child that toothpaste is intended to be consumed as if it were a food,” the lawsuit states. “It is well recognized that presenting drugs as ‘candy-like’ products increases the risk of overdose, particularly for young children.”

Nausea, stomachache, and vomiting are among the symptoms of acute fluoride toxicity.

Another side effect of fluoride

in 2009. The most recent Sockers played at the Del Mar Arena for three years before returning to the Sports Arena in 2012.

The Sockers moved to Frontwave Arena for the 2024-25 Major Arena Soccer League season and played their first home game there Dec. 14. The game which included the halftime alumni game was the third for the Sockers at Frontwave Arena.

“It’s going to be the start of something special. The location is going to attract a lot of people from Riverside County,” Basso said.

“It’s much more intimate, I think,” Bowers said.

“It’s a tighter environment,” Ladouceur said.

Neither Basso nor Ladouceur had previously been to Frontwave Arena. Bowers, who had previously been the Sockers’ general manager, is now the executive vice president of sports management for Frontwave Arena and handles the developmental league San Diego Clippers basketball team as well as the Sockers.

“I think they did a really good job,” Ladouceur said of Frontwave Arena.

“It’s great to see guys who

is a mineralization disorder called dental fluorosis, which is defined in the lawsuit as “increased porosity and less than normal amounts of calcification in the teeth.”

“This disorder causes visible, and sometimes disfiguring, staining of the enamel,” the lawsuit states.

According to the lawsuit, it’s a condition that has only escalated since the marketing of candy-like toothpaste began in the 1980s.

“In 1986–87, approximately 23% of U.S. children had fluorosis,” the lawsuit states. “This rate tripled to a staggering 68% of U.S. children by 2015–2016.”

The lawsuit states that there is a growing concern that exces-

ANSWERS for crossword puzzle on page A-6

played decades ago coming to the new building,” Bowers said.

Basso, who is now 60, was born and raised in Brazil and came to the United States when he was 20. In 1986 he signed a developmental contract with the Sockers and was on their reserve team, although he didn’t play with the primary team during his first stint with the Sockers. He played for the Milwaukee Wave and the Tulsa Ambush before becoming a member of the Sockers in 1993. Basso moved from San Diego to Temecula in 2000. He currently coaches teams for City SC Southwest in Temecula and the Futsal Club of Temecula.

Bowers, who is now 56, was raised in San Diego and began following the Sockers as a fan. He played on the 1991-92, 2003-04, 2004-05, and 2009 10 Sockers. After being traded back to the Sockers in 2003 he relocated to Murrieta. Bowers became the Sockers’ general manager in July 2016 and held that position until being named to his Frontwave Arena position handling other sports as well last year.

Ladouceur, who is now 65, was born in Haiti. He moved to New York City when he was 10

sive fluoride exposure is causing other health problems, including endocrine disruption and neurodevelopmental disorders.

‘An unreasonable risk’

In a case also represented by Connett as a lead attorney for Food and Water Watch, a federal judge ruled in September 2024 that the level of fluoride added to municipal drinking water systems deemed “optimal” by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency poses “an unreasonable risk” of lowering children’s IQ.

A JAMA study published on Jan. 6 echoed the judge’s ruling with its findings that high fluoride exposure in children led to lower

and became an American citizen when he was 18. Ladouceur began his professional soccer career in Greece. After three seasons in the Greek league former Greece national team coach Alkis Panagoulias, who had become the United States national team coach, recommended Ladouceur for the U.S. national team. Following a tournament in Los Angeles, Sockers coach Ron Newman approached Ladouceur about playing for the Sockers. Ladouceur played for the Sockers from 1984-85 to 1991-92. He moved to Murrieta in 2002. Ladouceur is currently coaching the newly-formed California Football Academy club in Orange County.

The 2024-25 Sockers held a 5-2 halftime lead over the Savage when the alumni took over the pitch. When the alumni were playing for the Sockers six men from each team including the goalkeeper were on the field at one time in the absence of a penalty.

All alumni players were on the field during the ten-minute game if they did not go to the bench for rest. The initial alumni rosters were of equal size but were not adjusted after cancellations, so Team Gold had 12 players and

IQ scores.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Presidentelect Donald Trump’s nominee for secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, said in November 2024 that the Trump administration will “advise all U.S. water systems to remove fluoride from public water” on Jan. 20.

“Fluoride is an industrial waste associated with arthritis, bone cancer, IQ loss, neurodevelopmental disorders, and thyroid disease,” he wrote on X.

Reprinted with permission from Epoch Times. To subscribe to Epoch Times, go to subscribe. theEpochTimes.com.

Team Blue had nine. Ladouceur and his team thus faced an opponent with greater numbers. “Those guys pulled a new trick on us,” he said. He still enjoyed the game. “I thought it was fun,” Ladouceur said.

“It’s nice to see the legends,” Basso said. “They’re in great shape.”

“No one got hurt, which was great,” Bowers said.

The 2024-25 Sockers finished with a 6-4 victory to improve their season record to 4-1.

Joe Naiman can be reached by email at jnaiman@reedermedia. com.

Jacques Ladouceur played during the San Diego Sockers alumni game on January 5.

Valley News/Joe Naiman photo

Local Anza churches gather for United Praise Night

Attendees celebrate with prayer and song at the United Praise Night event Sunday, Jan. 12, at the Anza Community Hall. Anza Valley Outlook/Courtesy photo Pastor Jon Runnfeldt from Anza Valley Gospel co-hosted the event, leading the audience in prayer and sharing messages of God’s word

Sieker Staff Writer

ANZA LOCAL

ANZA’S UPCOMING EVENTS

If you have an upcoming community event, email it to valleyeditor@reedermedia.com , put “attention events” in the subject line. Readers should call ahead on some listed events for the latest updates. Please also email us if any of these listings have new or updated information. Thank you!

Regular Happenings

Anza Farmers’ Market

Located at 56333 SR 371, Anza farmers’ market hours are every Thursday from 4 p.m. to 8pm through October. Various farmers, musicians, artisans and food vendors set up weekly. Ample parking in the field and lot to the west and east of the field. The market is operated by the High Country Conservancy, a 501(c)(3), and is a California

JULIE REEDER,

MALINA GUGEL,

Editorial

J.P. RAINERI,

TONY AULT, Staff Writer

DIANE SIEKER, Staff Writer

JOE NAIMAN, Ind. Contractor

ROGER BODDAERT, Ind. Contractor

Advertising Sales

JOSEPHINE MACKENZIE

ANNA MULLEN

CINDY DAVIS

ANDREW REEDER

Production

KARINA YOUNG, Art Director FOREST RHODES, Production Assistant, IT

SAMANTHA GORMAN, Graphic Artist

certified farmers market. Market

Manager Annika Knoppel can be reached at 951-234-1314 or email anzafarmersmarket@gmail.com

Anza Community Hall Swap

Meet - Every 1st and 3rd Saturday of the month. $15 for a spot with membership. $18 for a spot without membership. Vendors wanted. The hall is located at 56630 SR 371 in Anza. See membership information under “Organizations.”

Mobile Food Pantry – Anza Electric Cooperative and F.I.N.D. Food Bank offers a free mobile food pantry the second Saturday of every month at the AEC office, 58470 SR 371, from 10:30-11:30 a.m. All are welcome. Cal-Fresh application assistance and free community health services are also available. Bring your own reusable bags to take food home. Volunteers welcome. For more information, contact the AEC office at 951763-4333.

Friends of Anza Valley Community Library – Anza Valley Community Library is located at Hamilton High School, 57430 Mitchell Road. The library is open to the public, but not during school hours. Hours are 4-7 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m.4 p.m. Saturday and 12-4 p.m. on Sunday. Closed Monday through Wednesday.

Hamilton High School – Find out what is happening using Hamilton’s online calendar at www.hamiltonbobcats.net/apps/ events/calendar.

Hamilton Museum – 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Open Wednesdays and Saturdays at 39991 Contreras Road in Anza. For more information, call 951-763-1350 or visit www. hamiltonmuseum.org. Find them on Facebook at “HamiltonMuseum-and-Ranch-Foundation.”

Backcountry Horsemen Redshank Riders – Meetings on the second Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. Locations change, so please contact Mike by email at stumblinl55@gmail.com or by calling 951-760-9255.

Health, exercise, resources and recovery meetings Fit after 50 – 10:30-11:30 a.m. Tuesday and Friday mornings at Anza Community Hall. Free. Wear comfortable clothes and supportive shoes. Call or text instructor Teresa Hoehn at 951751-1462 for more information.

Narcotics Anonymous Meeting – 6 p.m. Every Tuesday at Shepherd of The Valley Church, 56095 Pena Road in Anza. Open participation.

Veterans’ Gathering Mondays – 9-11 a.m. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 39075 Contreras Road in Anza. Men and women veterans come to share and help each other deal with posttraumatic stress disorder and other difficulties. Call John Sheehan at 951-923-6153. If you need an advocate to help with VA benefits, call Ronnie Imel at 951-659-9884.

The Most Excellent Way – A Christ-centered recovery program for all kinds of addiction meets once a week on Fridays from 6-8 p.m. Program is court approved. The group meets at Valley Gospel

Chapel, located at 43275 Chapman Road, Anza.

AA Men’s Meeting – 7 p.m. Meetings take place Thursdays at 39551 Kirby Road in Anza, south of SR 371.

Alcoholics Anonymous – 8 p.m. Wednesday evenings at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 56095 Pena Road in Anza. For more information, call 951763-4226.

Bereaved Parents of the USA – The Aguanga-Anza Chapter of BPUSA will hold its meetings at 6 p.m. on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month at 49109 Lakeshore Blvd. in Aguanga. For more information, contact chapter leader Linda Hardee at 951-551-2826.

Free Mobile Health Clinic –Open every third Wednesday of the month from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. No appointment is needed. Uninsured may only be seen in the Anza Community Hall’s parking lot or inside the hall.

Medication Assistance and Treatment for Opioid Dependence – Get treatment for heroin addiction. Transportation to the clinic is provided. For more information, contact Borrego Health’s Anza Community Health Center, 58581 SR 371, Anza. For more information, 951-763-4759.

Food ministries

Living Hope Christian Fellowship Community Dinner – Dinners at 1 p.m. are held the last Sunday of the month at the Anza Community Hall. All are welcome. Donations of time, money, etc. are always welcome.

Food for the Faithful – 8 a.m. The food bank hands out food the last Friday of the month until the food is gone. The clothes closet will be open too. Emergency food handed out as needed at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. FFF is a nondenominational nonprofit. All in need are welcome; call Esther Barragan at 951-763-5636.

Bible studies The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Anza’s Sunday Sacrament is at 10 a.m.; Sunday School is 11 a.m. Priesthood/Relief Society meets at noon; Wednesday, Boy Scouts gathers 6 p.m. and Youth Night is 7 p.m. For more information, call Ruiz at 951-445-7180 or Nathan at 760-399-0727. The Wednesday Genealogy/Family History Class, 5-8 p.m., is open to the public at 39075 Contreras Road in Anza.

Native Lighthouse Fellowship – 10 a.m. The group meets the first Saturday of the month, and breakfast is served. All are welcome to fellowship together at the “Tribal Hall” below the casino in Anza. For more information, call Nella Heredia at 951-7630856.

Living Hope Bible Study

8-10 a.m. Tuesdays at Living Hope Christian Fellowship, 58050 Hwy 371, Anza. All are welcome. For more information, call Pastor Kevin at 951-763-1111.

Anza RV Clubhouse – 7 p.m., the second Wednesday of the Month, Pastor Kevin officiates at 41560 Terwilliger Road in Anza.

Monthly Christian Men’s

Breakfast – 9 a.m. Breakfast takes place the 4th Saturday of each month and rotates to different locations. Contact Jeff Crawley at 951-763-1257 for more information. Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church – 10 a.m. Weekly Wednesday Bible study takes place at 56095 Pena Road in Anza. Call 951-763-4226 for more information.

Valley Gospel Chapel – 7 a.m. Saturday Men’s Study meets weekly with breakfast usually served at 43275 Chapman Road in the Terwilliger area of Anza. For more information, call 951763-4622.

Anza First Southern Baptist Church – Begin your week with Sunday School for all ages at 9 a.m., followed by Sunday morning worship at 10:30 a.m. On Sunday nights, the church has prayer on the 1st and 4th Sundays from 6-7 p.m. and Bible study on the 2nd and 3rd Sundays from 6-8 p.m. On Monday evenings, from 6-8 p.m., the youth group (6 to 12 grade) meets for games and Bible study. Anza Baptist Church also offers Men’s and Women’s Ministries, a Homeschool Support Group, Summer Vacation Bible School and a Seniors’ Ministry. The church office is open Wednesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The church is located at 39200 Rolling Hills Road in Anza. For more information, contact the church at 951-763-4937 or visit www.anzabaptistchurch.com.

Clubs Anza Valley VFW Post 1873, Capt. John Francis Drivick III Post – The Ladies’ and Men’s Auxiliaries are located at 59011 Bailey Road in Anza. Mail P.O. Box 390433. Request monthly newsletter and or weekly menu by email at vfw1873anzaca@ gmail.com. For more information, call 951-763-4439 or visit http:// vfw1873.org.

High Country 4-H Club – 4 p.m. Meetings are on the third Tuesday of the month, except February, at Anza Community Hall. 4-H Club is for youth 5 to 19 years old offering a variety of projects. High Country 4-H Club is open to children living in the Anza, Aguanga and surrounding areas. For more information, call Allison Renck at 951-663-5452.

Anza Valley Artists Meetings – Meetings at 1 p.m. are the third Saturday of each month at various locations. Share art, ideas and participate in shows. Guest speakers are always needed. For more information, call president Rosie Grindle at 951-928-1248. Find helpful art tips at www. facebook.com/AnzaValleyArtists

Anza Quilter’s Club –Meetings are held at 9:30 a.m. on the first Tuesday of each month at the Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 56095 Pena Road, Anza. For more information see our Facebook page or contact Pat Sprint at jpsprint@gmail.com or Ellen Elmore at luvtoquilt2@ gmail.com

Anza Valley Lions Club –The Anza Valley Lions Club has been reinstated and is open to

all men and women who want to work together for the betterment of the community. The group is working on securing a new venue for meetings. Meetings and events are posted on the Anza Lions Club of Anza Valley Facebook page at www.facebook. com/LionsofAnzaValley. For more information, email president Greg Sandling at President. AnzaLions@gmail.com or Chris Skinner at Secretary.AnzaLions@ gmail.com

Civil Air Patrol – Squadron 59 is looking for new members of all ages. For more information, call squadron commander Maj. Dennis Sheehan from the Anza area at 951-403-4940. To learn more and see the club’s meeting schedule, visit www.squadron59.org.

Fire Explorer Program – 6 p.m. The program meets every second, third and fourth Tuesday of the month at Fire Station 29 on SR 371 in Anza. Call 951-7635611 for information.

Anza Thimble Club – The club meets the 1st Thursday of the month at the Anza Community Hall, 43275 Chapman Road in Anza. The social hour is 11:30 a.m., and lunch is served at noon. Contact Carol Wright at 951-7632884 for more information.

Organizations Terwilliger Community Association – 6 p.m. Second Monday of the month at VFW Post 1873, 59011 Bailey Road, in Anza. Potluck dinner open to all. For more information, call Tonie Ford at 951-763-4560.

Anza Community Hall – 7 p.m. General membership meetings are held the fourth Thursday of the month. Single memberships are $30 and include discounts to events for one person and 1 vote in elections and meetings. Family memberships are $50 and include discounts for a family up to 5 members and 1 vote in elections and meetings. Business memberships are $50 and allows an employer to receive discounts for up to 5 people, including themselves, and includes 1 vote on elections and meetings. No government funds are allocated for the Hall, which pays its bills through memberships and swap meets. Mail membership to: Anza Community Building Inc. at P.O. Box 390091, Anza, CA 92539. The hall is located at 56630 SR-371 in Anza. For more information, call 951-282-4267 or email achageneral@gmail.com or visit www.anzacommunitybuilding. org

Anza Civic Improvement League – 9 a.m. meets the first Saturday of each month at the Little Red Schoolhouse. The league maintains Minor Park and the Little Red School House, which are both available to rent for events. No government funds are allowed; the membership pays the bills – $10 a person, $18 family or $35 business membership. For more information, visit www. anzacivic.org.

ANZA VALLEY OUTLOOK

Little League registration now open for 2025 season

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

Registration for Anza Little League’s 2025 season is officially open, with opportunities for young athletes and their families. Opening Day is tentatively scheduled for Saturday, April 5, marking the start of an eight-week season filled with practices, games and community fun.

Is Little League baseball right for your family? Here’s what you need to know before signing up:

• Time Commitment: The season runs approximately eight weeks (weather permitting),

TANKERS from page B-1

as the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, contracted private services to deploy converted World War II aircraft. The Grumman S-2 aircraft, originally designed as carrier-based anti-submarine planes for the U.S. Navy, entered the firefighting fleet in the 1970s.

In 1996, CAL FIRE began acquiring 26 S-2E/G planes from the Department of Defense and converting them into modern firefighting aircraft. These upgraded planes, known as S-2Ts, feature powerful turboprop engines, enhanced safety features and greater maneuverability. The first 12 S-2Ts entered service during the 2001 fire season, with plans to replace older models entirely with a fleet of 23.

The S-2T is a cornerstone of CAL FIRE’s air attack program, delivering rapid, initial strikes on forest and brush fires. Each plane is piloted by a single crew member and has a cruising speed of 305 mph. Equipped with twin Garrett TPE331-14GR turbine engines, each rated at 1,650 horsepower, the aircraft can carry larger payloads of fire retardant than their predecessors.

Weighing 29,150 pounds, these agile planes continue to patrol the skies over California, delivering critical support in the battle against wildfires. Their speed, efficiency, and precision are instrumental in curbing the spread of destructive blazes in areas like the Anza Valley.

Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia. com

with activities scheduled three days a week.

• Practices : Once a week, determined by the coach, lasting about an hour.

• Games: One weekday game and one Saturday game each week.

• Cost Breakdown:

- Registration Fee: $35 per child.

- Uniform: Jerseys and hats are provided by the league. Families are responsible for additional items:

- Pants: $10–$20

- Belt: $10–$15 (or $12.99 for a belt and sock combo at Big 5)

- Socks: $10

- Cleats: $25+ - Glove: $20+

- Optional gear includes a bat bag, batting gloves and a bat. Families can find more information and register online at Anza Little League - High Country Recreation, Little League. Follow this link to the registration page: https://leagues.bluesombrero.com/ Default.aspx?tabid=1647620.

2025 Divisions:

• Tee Ball: Ages 4–7

• Minors (Coach/Machine Pitch): Ages 5–11

• Minors (Player Pitch): Ages 9–11

• Majors: Ages 10–12

• Intermediate (50/70): Ages 12–13

Important Dates:

• Assessment Days:

• Saturday, March 8, 8 a.m.–1 p.m.

• Saturday, March 15, 8 a.m.–1 p.m. (Mandatory for all players except Tee Ball; players must attend one of the two dates.)

• Opening Day Ceremonies: Saturday, April 5. Sponsorship Opportunities Anza Little League welcomes sponsorships to help make the 2025 season a success. For more information, email anzalittleleague@gmail.com

The HCR ballfield, located at 58230 Mitchell Road in Anza, will host practices and games.

Stay updated on league news by following Anza Little League - High Country Recreation on Facebook - https://www.facebook. com/profile.php?id=61569441235 625&mibextid=ZbWKwL. Thank you, volunteers The league extends its gratitude to the volunteers who help make each season possible. For questions, email anzalittleleague@gmail.com The organization looks forward to a fantastic 2025 season. Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia. com

Players, both boys and girls, are eager to begin the 2025 Little League season in Anza.

Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo

One of CAL FIRE’s Grumman S-2 airtankers displays Phos-Chek stains on its belly as it finishes drops onto a brush fire. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photos

Fighting brisk winds, a CAL FIRE Grumman S-2 airtanker drops its load of Phos-Chek onto a wilderness area fire.

A CAL FIRE Grumman S-2 airtanker orbits a fire, waiting for the goahead to drop its load of Phos-Chek onto a wildland blaze.

Sheriff’s Blotter

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

The Anza Valley Outlook Sheriff’s Blotter is a list of calls that allows residents to see what law enforcement activity is occurring in their communities.

The Sheriff’s Blotter data is obtained from the official calls for service records kept by the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department. However, calls where the release of the information could cause harm to an individual or jeopardize the investigation of a criminal case are excluded.

All calls listed are for service within the Sheriff’s Department jurisdiction in the unincorporated areas of Anza, Lake Riverside Estates, Cahuilla and Aguanga from Jan. 12 through Jan. 18.

Jan. 12

Suspicious vehicle - address undefined, Anza Suspicious vehicle - 3900 block Terwilliger Rd., Anza Trespassing - 5000 block St. Hwy. 371, Anza Check the welfare - 5300 block St. Hwy. 371, Anza Public assist - 3800 block Contreras Rd., Anza Petty theft - 4600 block St. Hwy. 79, Aguanga, report taken Unknown trouble - 3900 block Anza Rd., Anza Check the welfare - 3900 block El Toro Rd., Anza Alarm call - 5600 block St. Hwy. 371, Anza Suspicious person - address undefined, Anza Jan. 13 Illegal lodging - address

undefined, Anza Public disturbance - 5900 block Rincon Ridge Rd., Anza

911 call from business - 5700 block Mitchell Rd., Anza Unattended death - address withheld, Anza, report taken Miscellaneous criminal - address undefined, Anza Follow-up - address withheld, Lake Riverside Suspicious person - 4100 block Terwilliger Rd., Anza Jan. 15

Civil dispute - 5400 block Mitchell Rd., Anza, report taken Recovery of stolen vehicle5500 block Tule Peak Rd., Anza Follow-up - address withheld, Anza Petty theft - 5500 block Tule Peak Rd., Anza Jan. 16

Vandalism - 3800 block Fisher Rd., Anza Unknown trouble - 3800 block Fisher Rd., Anza Battery - 3800 block Fisher Rd., Anza Check the welfare - 4400 block Breiner Valley Rd./Ramsey Rd., Anza

Suspicious circumstance - 4400 block Mountain Circle/Paui Rd., Anza, report taken Public disturbance - 3800 block Fisher Rd., Anza, report taken Follow-up - address withheld, Anza Alarm call - 5800 block St. Hwy. 371, Anza Jan. 17 Public assist - 5400 block Mitchell Rd., Anza Jan. 18 Unknown trouble - 3900 block Anza Rd., Anza Business & professions code violation - address undefined, Aguanga Vandalism - 4400 block Fargo Wy., Anza, unfounded Check the welfare - 5200 block Elder Creek Rd., Anza No assumption of criminal guilt or affiliation should be drawn from the content provided in the Sheriff’s Blotter. Residents with information regarding any crimes are encouraged to contact the Hemet Sheriff’s Station at 951-791-3400. Criminal activity can also be reported through the We-Tip Crime Reporting Hotline, 909-987-5005 or https://wetip.com.

Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia. com

Legal Advertising

n Application Order for Publication of Summons/Citation ..........$400 for 4 Weeks

n Notice of Petition to Administer Estate ....................................$300 for 3 Weeks

n Order to Show Cause for Change of Name................................. $90 for 4 Weeks

n Fictitious Business Name Statement ..........................................$58 for 4 Weeks (Each additional name after two $3.00 each)

n Abandonment of Fictitious Business Name Statement ..............$48 for 4 Weeks

n Notice of Sale of Abandoned Property .......................................$80 for 2 Weeks

Deadline: Fridays at 3pm for following week’s publication.

The Sheriff’s Blotter enables residents to know what criminal activity is occurring in their communities.

Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo

between musical sets.

“The event brings us a sense of community and family in Christ. It’s always special to see friends and pray together even though we’re attending separate churches,” said an Anza churchgoer. “It’s an evening to unite and be reminded that we are all part of the body of Christ.”

The United Praise Night began last year and is held every two months. Organized by local community pastors, it serves as a platform to unite Christians in Anza, fostering a shared experience of worship across different congregations. The popularity of the event has steadily grown, with this session filling the Anza Community Hall to capacity. Initially held outdoors at Anza Minor Park, the event moved indoors due to weather conditions. Organizers hope to return to the park once the warmer season approaches.

For more information about future United Praise Nights, please contact Pastor Kevin Watson with Living Hope Christian Fellowship at 951-763-1111.

ANZA LOCAL

Living Hope Christian Fellowship pastor Kevin Watson preaches to a packed room at the United Praise Night event Sunday, Jan. 12, at the Anza Community Hall. Anza Valley Outlook/Courtesy photos

Anza Valley Christian Fellowship pastor Mark Neer leads the congregation in song at the United Praise Night event at the Anza Community Hall.

Churchgoers enthusiastically worship at the United Praise Night event at the Anza Community Hall.

Friends and neighbors enjoy the celebration at the United Praise Night event at the Anza Community Hall.

Olivet University students perform worship music at the United Praise Night event at the Anza Community Hall.

Pastor Jon Runnfeldt from Anza Valley Gospel Church celebrates with the crowd at the United Praise Night event at the Anza Community Hall.

Pastor Kevin Watson gives a sermon at the United Praise Night event Sunday, Jan. 12, at the Anza Community Hall.

[Left] Olivet University students discuss and enjoy the sermons and worship music at the United Praise Night event at the Anza Community Hall.

EDUCATION

Three Southwest Riverside County school leaders making a difference for students are named 2025 Riverside County Educators of the Year

MURRIETA/TEMECULA/

LAKE ELSINORE – A staff

meeting, a Zoom meeting, and an all-school assembly with more than 1,000 people, were what appeared on the calendar of three Riverside County educators on the morning of Friday, Jan. 17. Shortly after each activity got underway, each gathering was interrupted by the announcement of three newly named 2025 Riverside County Educators of the Year.

With students, colleagues, and family members in attendance, Felipe Zanartu, Dr. Kimberly Velez, and Jennifer Camargo were surprised in three different locations on Friday, January 17, by Riverside County Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Edwin Gomez, with the news that they had been selected as top educators in the county.

“All of our 2025 Educators of the Year exemplify what it takes to serve the needs of students and families in our public schools,” said Riverside County Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Edwin Gomez, “Ensuring the success of students inside the classroom and on their journey to become healthy, productive citizens in their community requires a team approach. From school counselors and classified staff members to teachers and administrators, we are excited to honor that collaboration and commitment with every surprise visit and award.”

Three additional surprise visits are planned throughout January and early February. Palm Springs Unified School District Executive Assistant Erika Barragan was named as the 2025 Confidential Employee of the Year on Thursday, January 16. All honorees will be recognized at the 2025 Celebrating Educators Luncheon set for May 13, at the Riverside Convention Center.

Felipe Zanartu – 2025 Riverside County School Counselor of the Year

In his role as a school counselor at Cole Canyon Elementary School in Murrieta for the last six years, Felipe Zanartu is far more than an outstanding support for the success of all students. He also trains new counselors and facilitates professional development locally, statewide, and nationally to grow exemplary model counseling programs. His work has elevated the profession within his district to the extent that counselors were added to support each elementary school in the district.

Felipe is a member of the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) and the California Association for School Counselors. He believes that exemplary school counselors are those who prioritize measurable outcomes, equity, and studentcentered growth. In just the last five years, Felipe has guided 18 schools to achieve Recognized ASCA Model Program (RAMP) recognition in Riverside County, California, and across the country. He is a frequent presenter at the National School Counselor Leadership Conference and serves as a RAMP reviewer for schools that are aligning their counseling focus with best practices and national standards.

One of Felipe’s innovative creations is the House Challenge Program. This initiative encourages kindness, respect, good citizenship, teamwork, and sportsmanship through structured play via intramural sports competitions. For students who might not otherwise participate in competitive extra-curricular sports programs, this program builds confidence, social skills, and connections with their peers while teachers, staff, parents, and community members support them as coaches and referees. One parent described the program as “saving my child’s 5th grade year.”

Felipe earned a Master’s degree in School Counseling from San Diego State University, and his Preliminary Administrative Services Credential from the Riverside County Office of Education’s School of Education.

“Today I have a very special announcement because it is important that in this county, we honor, celebrate, and acknowledge our great educators and team members that work with all of you students,” said Riverside County Superintendent of Schools, Dr.

Edwin Gomez, to the more than 1,000 students and educators gathered at an outdoor assembly on the campus of Cole Canyon Elementary School. “Mr Zanartu works for many of you. He’s visible. He’s on the playground. He’s in the classroom. He’s working with your teachers, and he’s working with the team—all because he cares for every single one of you. Just like all of your teachers, and all of your staff members here in your educational family, Mr. Zanartu always goes above and beyond the call of duty.”

This was incredibly unexpected,” said Felipe Zanartu immediately following the surprise announcement. “My biggest thing is for all of you here is to really have fun. Make school the best experience it can be. I know if you have fun, and you love school, and make really good friends, and good relationships, you’re going to be successful. I’m just really hoping that I can be one step in helping your life be successful. Thank you so much.”.

Dr. Kimberly Velez – 2025 Riverside County Certificated Administrator of the Year

In her 30 years in education, Dr. Kimberly Velez has served as a teacher, special education teacher, assistant principal, principal, special education director, executive director of student services, assistant superintendent, and interim superintendent.

In her current role as Assistant Superintendent of Educational Support Services for Temecula Valley Unified School District, she describes herself as a servant leader and transformational leader where she builds the expectation that excellence is not an occasional achievement, but an everyday standard.

Her focus on creating a culture of reflection and adaptation has led to the district’s increased focus on traditionally underserved populations. Among her achievements are the development of the Aspiring Principals Academy, Strategic Plan Steering Committee, the Superintendent’s Council, and a merging of educational and support services teams that ultimately benefit all students.

Dr. Velez earned her bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees from the University of Arizona.

She is a resident of Temecula.

“Dr. Velez is an exemplary educator with extraordinary resiliency who always keeps students at the forefront of everything she does,” said Riverside County Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Edwin Gomez. She is a visionary leader who truly believes in the cause of supporting all students—regardless of the circumstances or the situation.”

“I’m 100% speechless right now, and I don’t want to cry, but as I look around this room, I’ve worked with some people for two years, and some for 25 years,” said

Dr. Kimberly Velez to a room full of colleagues immediately after the surprise visit. “It’s the work that all of you do in every department that helps me shine in my role. This district has come together as a unified staff to support the needs and kids in this district.”

Jennifer Camargo – 2025 Riverside County School Site Support Employee of the Year

Every day, Jennifer Camargo uses social-emotional learning (SEL) tools in her role as a SocialEmotional Learning Support Provider in Lake Elsinore Unified School District to ensure that every child receives the resources and environment they need to thrive emotionally and academically.

Serving at two schools (William Collier Elementary School and Wildomar Elementary School), Jennifer’s responsibilities include collaborating with teachers, administrators, playground staff, and all educators to implement SEL strategies and provide professional development sessions to ensure every child deserves to feel valued, supported, and empowered to achieve their full potential.

Specifically, Jennifer empowers students to incorporate the valuable tools of empathy and active listening with strategies for self-regulation and managing stress or frustration—skills that may address immediate challenges but also lay the foundation for lifelong emotional intelligence. Since 2020, Jennifer has also served as a facilitator for the Parent Project, a 10-week parenting class that provides tools, insights, and support to strengthen skills and enhance family relationships.

Colleagues describe how “her patience, empathy, and persistence have enabled countless students to thrive, even in the face of adversity” and that “beyond her technical expertise, she is known for her problem-solving, thoughtfulness, positivity, and dedication to the mission of education.”

Jennifer holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice administration and a master’s in education. She is a resident of Menifee.

“Today we are here to celebrate and honor our amazing educators—people who are doing an outstanding job working with our students, supporting them, loving them, showing compassion, and especially working with social-emotional learning as Ms. Camargo does and has done coordinating, leading, and impacting students across the district,” said Riverside County Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Edwin Gomez at the surprise visit. “Jennifer’s work is grounded in her commitment to create learning environments that foster excellent emotional intelligence, resilience, and a supportive community for all students.”

“I love my job, I love my team and all the opportunities that being in it has provided to me. Thank

you. Thank you,” said Jennifer Camargo immediately following the surprise announcement.

The Riverside County Educators of the Year are selected from the more than 36,000 educational employees in the county. The rigorous application process starts with nominations by teachers, classified employees, and school district administrators throughout the county. Applications are then submitted to the Riverside County Office of Education, where an outside selection committee selects the honorees before the county superintendent’s announcement.

Along with the 2025 Riverside County Teachers of the Year named previously, all 2025 Riverside County Educators of the Year will be honored at the Celebrating Educators Luncheon,

set for Tuesday, May 13, at the Riverside Convention Center.

Clarification: The 2025 Riverside County Teachers of the Year were named in mid-2024 to align with the 2025 California State Teacher of the Year competition. The 2026 Riverside County Teachers of the Year will be announced in May/June of 2025 and will vie for the 2026 California State Teacher of the Year award that will be named in the fall of 2025 by the California Department of Education and State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Tony Thurmond. The 2026 Riverside County Teachers of the Year will be honored at the 2026 Celebrating Educators Event in May 2026.

Submitted by Riverside County Office of Education.

Area students graduate from University of Jamestown

JAMESTOWN, ND -- Students from Southwest Riverside County have graduated from the University of Jamestown after the fall 2024 semester. Tommy Beringer of Murrieta graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Health and Fitness Administration. Damian Otero of Winchester graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication. All fall 2024 graduates will be honored during the commencement ceremonies on May 3 in UJ’s Harold Newman Arena. Baccalaureate is scheduled for 9 a.m., followed by Graduate and

Felipe Zanartu is named 2025 Riverside County School Counselor of the Year. Valley News/Courtesy photos

Dr. Kimberly Velez is named 2025 Riverside County Certificated Administrator of the Year.

Jennifer Camargo is named 2025 Riverside County School Site Support Employee of the Year.

Temecula Valley students honored in January

Diane A. Rhodes Special to Valley News

The Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce Student of the Month program, recognizing and inspiring academic excellence since the 1992-1993 school year, held its first awards breakfast of 2025 on Jan. 9 at the Murrieta Sizzler restaurant, 40489 Murrieta Hot Springs Rd. Sally Myers, founder of the nonprofit, welcomed everyone and shared the mission of the local high school recognition program which sets the criteria for the students who are chosen.

Supported by the community, college or vocational/trade schoolbound seniors are acknowledged and honored for their character, their love of learning, and their willingness to participate in numerous activities such as campus events, athletics, and community service or the ability to persevere and overcome difficult life circumstances. They accomplish all this in a setting that honors God, country, community, family, and free enterprise.

Students received backpacks filled with gifts and certificates of recognition, among other things, which were all donated by sponsors of the program. Each student shared their personal story, past challenges, and future goals on stage with an audience of supporters, including principals, teachers, peers, family members, and community and school district dignitaries.

January’s students of the month are Chaparral High School’s Taryn Mitchell, Great Oak’s Macklin Jakuttis, Linfield Christian’s Abby Bi, Rancho Christian’s Navaeh Berry, Saint Jeanne de Lestonnac Catholic High School’s Haley Holder, Temecula Preparatory High School’s Nicholas Stein, and Temecula Valley’s Brian Tek.

Taryn Mitchell

Chaparral High School Principal

Tina Miller credits Taryn with helping to spearhead a new program on campus called PLUS (Peer Leaders Uniting Students). “This is a club and a class that fosters student voice and helps with a sense of belonging for students,” Miller said. “In PLUS, Haley found her passion, her confidence, a voice and I hope, a home. Through student-led forums, she has helped other students on campus have a voice and has made an impact on our school’s culture and climate.” Taryn said that although she was outgoing, she struggled with the lack of a sense of belonging during the first two years of high school. She associated with peers who made poor choices. “Trying to fit in only held me back and school became something I had to endure rather than something I looked forward to,” Taryn said. “Everything changed when I decided to step away from influences that were harming my growth. It’s then that I was introduced to PLUS.” She said being a part of the program, and now serving as president, helped her realize that anyone can become a leader and that everyone has a quality within themselves that can contribute to positively influencing others. “Seeing the potential in others is extremely important,” Taryn said.

Macklin “Mac” Jakuttis Great Oak High School Principal Amber Lane asked “Mac” what words her friends would use to describe her and she replied, “mature, honest, kind.” When

American

Tony Ault Staff Writer

asked what advice she would give to her ninth-grade self, Mac said she would spend more time focusing on moments. As editor-in-chief of yearbook, she captures many of those moments through photographs and other content. She plans to attend Baylor University to study psychology and forensics. “From a young age, I’ve always sought ways to give back, whether it’s to family, school or community,” Mac said. “Being an only child, I’ve definitely learned independence. As president of the National Honor Society, I lead projects that impact our local community.” She said her faith has always been very important to her and she considers her church, where she works as a youth leader, to be her home away from home.

“As for my greatest contribution, I’d say it’s how I’ve chosen to serve others in all areas of my life, whether it’s through leading, creating, or simply showing up.

I’ve learned that living a life of service doesn’t just impact others, but it strengthens me as well.”

Teacher Melissa Casady said the yearbook club has a saying of “if better is possible, good is not enough” and she said Mac personifies that statement every single day in everything that she does.

Abby Bi Linfield Christian High School Principal Ty Nichols introduced Abby as bright, determined and courageous. “Academically, she is unparalleled, having earned nothing less than an A throughout her high school career,” he said.

“She is a gifted musician, mastering the piano and flute and percussion as a member of our high school jazz band and band.” She is also the only girl fiercely competing on the school’s all-male golf team. Abby hopes to attend medical school to become an anesthesiologist.

“One way I’d like to give back to my community is by sharing my passion and determination for everything I do with others,” Abby said. “I hope to inspire the next generation just as I’ve been inspired by those who came before

me.” She has enjoyed being part of Linfield Christian’s mission trips to an orphanage near Tijuana, Mexico. Several students and a few chaperones drive down there for a few days at a time where they assist with whatever is needed as they interact with the children. “Through these trips, you learn so much about yourself,” Abby said. “The group you came with and a community in need. When you see things through a different lens, you learn.”

Navaeh Berry

Rancho Christian High School

Principal Doris Jackson has known Navaeh for many years and said she is a student who loves to learn and grow. She is a fierce competitor in varsity soccer, and she is also on the cheerleading team. She plans to major in business and pursue entrepreneurship, eventually hoping to have her own law practice one day. “There are a few life lessons that I want to carry with me to college and beyond,” Navaeh said. “The first is the importance of balance. In a fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in school and work and forget about the importance of maintaining good relationships, a healthy state of mind and simply enjoying life.”

Another lesson is learning that the most meaningful competition is with yourself. “Our generation often finds itself comparing accomplishments and successes, especially on social media where we only see the highlights in others’ lives,” Navaeh said. “True growth comes from focusing inward and striving to be the best version of yourself. It’s not about perfection, it’s about progress.” She said her pastor gave her a very reflective and beneficial mindset that she also shared. “He said you’re never not making an impact, you’re just choosing what type of impact you make.”

Haley Holder Saint Jeanne de Lestonnac Catholic High School Principal Annette Zaleski said Haley has attended the K-12 school since kindergarten and has always been involved with many activities.

She said the most important and valuable characteristics are the intrinsic gifts that Haley shares – the words of encouragement she gives her classmates on an everyday basis and the inclusive invitations to events and clubs, offering that helping hand. “Over the past four years, I have had the incredible opportunity to participate in many extracurricular activities that have helped me grow as both a leader and as a person,” Haley said. “Whether it’s through my role as varsity volleyball team captain, serving as ASB secretary or leading Key Club as president, each experience has taught me valuable lessons in teamwork, responsibility and service.” She is also a member of the National Honor Society and California Scholarship Federation, which has helped be a servant leader and humbly offers her time, talents, and compassion to uplift and inspire those around her. She hopes to channel her passion for service into a career that brings hope and healing to others. “For me, nursing is the intersection of personal experience, passion, and purpose,” Haley said. “As I work toward becoming a licensed nurse practitioner in the future, my goal is to provide more than clinical expertise. I want to be a source of comfort, a compassionate listener, and a healing presence for each and every one of my patients.” Nicholas “Nick” Stein Temecula Preparatory High School Upper School Dean Garrett Corduan introduced Nick as an amazing athlete who is also section lead in the chamber choir. He plans to attend UC, San Diego as a human biology major and pursue a career in orthopedics. “A major lesson I have learned in my life is how limiting it can be to live our lives based on what other people think about us,” Nick said. “We all have something that we are hesitant to do because it might change the way our peers view us.” He did not let that stop him from joining choir while being captain of the football team, which is not something you see very often at a high school. “There’s a big lack of participation in the arts by athletes and vice versa,” he said. If he had given into the stigma of only doing one thing or the other, he said, “I would have missed out on so many opportunities that were truly some of the greatest experiences of my life.” Choir teacher Michelle Risling said Nick began to study music in middle school and has a beautiful baritone voice. She said he has taken a leadership role in the choir program, demonstrating students can really do it all if they want to.

Brian Tek Temecula Valley High School Principal Donna Lione said when Brian was asked what his philosophy on life was, he said it is the story of physics. He is a member of the Physics Club, Math Club, CyberPatriots and Science Olympiad. He boasts a 4.61 GPA and is MIT or Berkeley-bound in the fall. He believes that “If you’re not having fun in what you’re involved in, you’re doing it wrong.” Brian said, “Being born to two Cambodian immigrants, I’ve always been taught the value and importance of education.” He took an Advanced Placement physics class in his sophomore year, and it changed his life. He said the class opened his mind because it’s not about the teacher giving information; it’s about student discovery and critical thinking. “It taught me to think critically and analyze problems, lessons I carry with me to every single class. I see kinematics and energy transfer in everything I do,” Brian said. Teacher Ziba Mayar said Brian is a student with a rare combination of intelligence and altruism, which makes him a true standout. “Brian seeks to make education equitable to all students. He wants to level the playing field for future generations, providing opportunities to those who might otherwise be left behind,” she said. For more information, please contact Program Chair Amber Poncy at 951-676-5090 or http:// temecula.org/student-of-themonth

Association of University Women hosts 8th-grade girls at MSJC

Eighty 8th-grade girls from Hemet and Banning Middle schools were invited to the 31st annual American Association of University Women (AAUW) STEM Conference at Mt. San Jacinto College in San Jacinto, on Thursday, Jan. 9.

The event, according to Andrea Pasolini, MSJC Director of Public Information, Marketing & Strategic Communications, was held in the newly dedicated STEM building. For the girls it was a day of inspiration and exploration, giving them a firsthand look at the possibilities of a future in science, technology, engineering, and math. For many of these young

students, it was their first time stepping onto a college campus.

The day began with a welcome in the campus theater from Dr. Heather Abushanab, president of AAUW Redlands and physicist. She encouraged the girls to envision the futures they could create. “You can succeed despite adversity,” she said, setting the theme for the event.

MSJC’s Vice President of Student Services, Rebecca Teague, a former Hemet middle school student herself, reminded the students of the resources available to them. Teague in the MSJC STEM building said. “We are here to prepare you for your journey ahead, whether through dual enrollment or other programs that help you get ahead with your dreams. You are important to the

future, and we need strong, bright, and independent women to lead us forward.”

Erica Alfaro, best known for her book Harvesting Dreams, shared her powerful story as the daughter of migrant farmworkers who overcame significant obstacles to achieve her educational goals. “It took me six years to complete my bachelor’s degree, but every step was worth it,” Alfaro said. “There are no limits if you believe in yourself. Remember, 80% of your conversations are with yourself, so make sure to be your own best friend.”

The AAUW members have a commitment to young women’s futures and organized and carried out the conference.

Workshops included animatronic prototyping, forensic science,

physics, and financial literacy for women, with hands-on activities designed to inspire curiosity and confidence in students who may have never considered careers in these fields.

Pam Ford, a retired MSJC anthropology professor, emphasized the importance of introducing young girls to women thriving in STEM professions.

“This event is a labor of love—not just through the heart, but also through the mind,” Ford said.

“We want these girls to see that education can make the impossible possible.”

The AAUW women said thanks to the generosity of sponsors, including the Morongo Band of Mission Indians, Sun Lakes Country Club Charitable Trust Board, Laura May Stewart

Foundation, Sorenson Engineering, and Suzanne Cranston, the students enjoyed a lunch during their day of exploration.

One 8th grader from Hemet summarized the day: “I didn’t know so many women did such amazing things in science. It made me feel like I could do it, too.”

Mt. San Jacinto College (MSJC) is a comprehensive community college serving a diverse student population of approximately 30,000 annually across a 1,700-square-mile area. With campuses in San Jacinto, Menifee Valley, Temecula Valley, and San Gorgonio Pass, Information courtesy of MSJC San Jacinto.

Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com

Recipients of the Temecula Valley Student of the Month award for January are, from left, Abby Bi, Brian Tek, Macklin “Mac” Jakuttis, Nicholas “Nick” Stein, Navaeh Berry, Haley Holder, and Taryn Mitchell. Valley News/John P. Hess photo

Eastern Municipal Water District launches ‘Fix-A-Leak’ video contest for students

Eastern Municipal Water District (EMWD)announces its “Fix-A-Leak” video contest, inviting students to creatively explore ways to combat excessive water usage due to household leaks. The contest is open to high school students and is a teacherdirected project where students can work individually or in groups of up to three. The deadline for submissions is Friday, March 7. Household leaks are a major contributor to water waste in homes across the country. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), nearly one trillion gallons of water are wasted annually due to common household leaks. The contest challenges students to research and develop a three-minute video that educates EMWD customers on how to identify and fix leaks in their homes, helping to conserve water and reduce costs.

Participating students will craft videos that not only explain what leaks are but also offer practical steps for detection and repair.

Videos must:

Align with EMWD’s brand

Joe Naiman Special to Valley News

The Eastern Municipal Water District board approved a community facilities district for the La Ventana development.

The board’s 5-0 vote Wednesday, Jan. 15 adopts resolutions to establish the CFD, to incur indebtedness, and to certify the results of the election. The board also approved an ordinance establishing the special tax. The maximum bonded indebtedness that can be issued is $17,000,000.

The La Ventana property is east of La Ventana Road, west of Leon Road, north of Olive Avenue, and south of Simpson Road. In March 2019 the Riverside County Board of Supervisors approved a rezone for the Winchester development which did not change the land use designation for the 149-acre area but established legal boundaries for seven planning areas within the Winchester Hills Specific Plan.

guidelines.

• Briefly introduce EMWD and its services.

• Feature an engaging storyline that captivates viewers rather than simply presenting facts.

• Clearly demonstrate actions EMWD customers can take to detect and fix leaks.

Maximum length of three minutes. Include student and teacher biographies, as well as a student dedication, in the end credits.

Exclude any trademarked or copyrighted material.

Students are encouraged to think outside the box, using creative storytelling, live-action footage, or animation to produce a captivating and informative video.

The winning video will be published by EMWD, and winning students will have the option to select either a $500 Amazon Gift Card or a Meta Quest 3 Mixed Reality Headset as their prize. If the headset is unavailable, students will receive a gift card of equivalent value. The prize will be divided among a maximum of

A community facilities district includes a special tax (sometimes known as Mello-Roos taxes due to the state legislators who authored the option for services on new development to be funded by an annual assessment) to fund the services and/or infrastructure.

A Joint Communities Facilities Agreement stipulates the collection and distribution process for the taxes. If the one percent property tax is not sufficient to pay for maintenance, fire protection, and other services a CFD may be formed for those services and that CFD would be perpetual. A CFD may also pay for infrastructure including capacity fees which are charged to developers to cover the new development’s share of existing infrastructure, and that assessment ends when the bonds are paid off. The CFD may also pay for the reimbursement to government agencies for their staff time and other expenses to form the CFD, the cost to issue bonds, and the annual costs to administer the CFD.

three students. Additionally, the teacher of the winning entry will receive a gift card.

To submit, students must complete the entry form to receive uploading instructions via email.

An assessment must be approved by a majority of property owners, although a developer who owns a property before it is subdivided may cast the sole vote in favor of a CFD which will be binding upon subsequent property owners.

D.R. Horton Los Angeles Holding Company, Inc., is currently the sole landowner of the area and requested formation of the CFD. Eastern’s November 20 board meeting approved a resolution of intent to form the CFD and set the January 15 hearing date. The CFD covers two tracts where 292 single-family homes are planned.

Eastern has a Comprehensive Debt Policy that stipulates a minimum of 100 lots and $1 million of debt for a CFD along with an estimated minimum value to lien ratio of 4:1 and an effective tax rate of no more than 2% of the home’s value. The estimated value-to-lien ratio for the La Ventana CFD is 12.32:1 and the effective tax rate is estimated at 1.99%.

For more details or assistance, please contact Consuelo Arias with EMWD’s Public and Governmental Affairs team at 951928-3777 ext. 4894 or via email at ariasc@emwd.org

The CFD will finance EMWD improvements and facilities costs in lieu of fees and Valley-Wide Recreation and Park District improvements. The EMWD improvements eligible for CFD financing include the construction, purchase, modification, expansion, improvement, or rehabilitation of water and sewer facilities including the acquisition of capacity and all appurtenances and appurtenant work.

The cost of engineering, planning, designing, materials testing, coordination, construction staking, construction management, and supervision for those improvements may also be paid with CFD revenue.

The cost for the park and recreation facilities which will be owned and operated by Valley‐Wide Recreation and Park District will include engineering, planning, designing, materials testing, coordination, construction staking, construction management, and supervision related to the construction, acquisition, modification,

emwd.org/videocontest.

expansion, or rehabilitation of those improvements. The proceeds may also pay for costs associated with the creation of the CFD and the issuance of the bonds including legal fees, consultant fees, engineering, planning, designing, and annual administration. The special tax cannot be levied after Fiscal Year 2069-70.

Although $17,000,000 of debt has been authorized, the total estimated project costs for those facilities are only $13,044,675. That amount covers $3,020,275 for water improvements, $3,000,000 for park improvements, a water participation fee of $2,165,472, a sewer treatment plant capacity fee of $1,923,988, a sewer financial participation fee of $1,014,992, a water supply development fee of $117,676, and a meter fee of $114,464. The incidental financing expenses are estimated at $1,687,808.

Joe Naiman can be reached at jnaiman@reedermedia.com

EMWD

Joe Naiman Special to Valley News

The State Water Resources Control Board has a State Revolving Fund which provides 20-year loans at interest rates between 1.5% and 3%. The Eastern Municipal Water District will be seeking a pair of State Revolving Fund loans for the district’s Purified Water Replenishment Advanced Water Purification Facility.

A single 5-0 EMWD board vote on January 15 approved two separate resolutions authorizing State Revolving Fund loans for the project. One of those resolutions requests $50 million for the facility itself while the other resolution seeks $35 million for the project’s conveyance pipelines and blending facility. The Eastern Municipal Water

District’s Groundwater Reliability Plus Program is intended to improve the quality and yield of water from the San Jacinto groundwater basin and includes the Purified Water Replenishment Project. The Purified Water Replenishment Project will include recharge ponds, an advanced recycled water treatment facility, a blending station, and conveyance infrastructure. Phase 1 of that project will recharge up to 4,000 acre-feet per year of a blend of advanced treated water and recycled water into recharge ponds along the San Jacinto River corridor.

The Purified Water Replenishment Advanced Water Purification Facility will be located adjacent to the San Jacinto Valley Regional Water Reclamation Facility. Infrastructure will convey recycled water from the San Jacinto Valley Regional Water Reclamation Facility to groundwater

recharge ponds in the upper San Jacinto groundwater basin, where it will be blended with diluent water for infiltration. A portion of the recycled water will receive additional treatment through an advanced water purification facility prior to groundwater recharge. The capacity of the project will be phased and ultimately will be 15,000 acrefeet per year.

In November 2021 the EMWD board awarded Brown and Caldwell the final design contract for the Purified Water Replenishment Advanced Water Treatment Facility Project. The estimated cost for the project including the conveyance system is $166 million.

The State Water Resources Control Board also provides Recycled Water Funding Program grants. EMWD staff identified components of the project eligible

for those grants, and in December 2023 the board approved resolutions seeking $15 million for the Purified Water Replenishment Advanced Water Purification Facility and $11.2 million for the project’s conveyance pipelines and blending facility. Each of those projects was allocated $3 million of Water Recycling Funding Program grant funding. The United States Bureau of Reclamation has approved a $30 million WaterSMART Water Recycling and Desalination Planning Grant award for the project. The maximum amount of a State Revolving Fund loan is $50 million.

The State Water Resources Control Board will work with EMWD staff on the actual interest rates and other terms of the loans. Joe Naiman can be reached at jnaiman@reedermedia.com

approves recoating contract for Searl II tank

Joe Naiman Special to Valley News

Three Eastern Municipal Water District tanks will be re-coated including the Searl II Tank in Hemet.

The EMWD board voted 5-0 January 15 to award a $290,900 contract to Advanced Industrial Services, Inc., for the re-coating of the Searl II tank and of the Ellis and Motte tanks in Perris. The board authorized a total appropriations amount of $424,500 which also covers inspection, EMWD staff time, and a $38,600 contingency. The Searl II Tank is in the 39800 block of Cactus Valley Road. It is a welded carbon steel tank and was constructed in 2003. The reservoir has a capacity of 3.2 million gallons. It is one of 92 water tanks throughout the EMWD service area which range from recently constructed to more than 65 years old. Eastern’s ongoing maintenance program re-coats several tanks annually to improve their aesthetics and extend their service life.

EMWD staff solicited bids for the re-coating of the three tanks October 29. Four companies submitted proposals. Advanced Industrial Services, whose office is in Paramount, had the low bid of $290,900. The four companies were also rated on their ability to accomplish the 10,000 pounds per square inch pressure washing and re-coat work, and past performance re-coating EMWD tanks gave Advanced Industrial Services a significant advantage in the rating element.

Coating Specialists and Inspection Services, Inc., whose corporate office is in Santa Clarita,

Valley News/minan photo (pexels.com)

Highway Updates

Winds temporarily subside in the Valleys bringing Caltrans and RCTC projects back into focus

Tony Ault Staff Writer

With a lull in the fierce Santa Ana winds that hit the Valley cities in the last few weeks California Department of Transportation and Riverside County Transportation Commission workers and contractors are back at work catching up on the work lost. Still more, but less strong Santa Ana winds have been predicted this week, so more delays may be possible.

During the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday weekend, Caltrans did not close any lanes through Jan. 21. The unpredictable wind events predicted this week still could cause more highway project changes. Be aware of the changing conditions. Also motorists should be advised, due to the prolonged period without rain in our area, resulting in the extreme fire danger, Southern California Edison again may elect to make Public Safety Power Shutoffs in our area that could affect the highway traffic signals again bringing about necessary 4-way stops at major intersections.

Menifee/Murrieta

Caltrans is alerting the public that construction will be taking place in and near the city of Menifee and city of Murrieta along Inter state 215. Weather permitting.

Daytime work is scheduled from Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., with shoulder closures in place. Nighttime work

will take place from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. concluding in the early hours of Fridays.

Crews will be working in the area, but no lane closures will be necessary. Crews are scheduled to work on both the southbound and northbound directions of Interstate 215. The project aims to improve road surface, update shoulder rumble strips, enhance culverts, upgrade guardrails, stabilize slopes, and boost highway worker safety along the stretch near Murrieta, from 1 mile north of Clinton Keith Road to 1 mile north of Newport Road.

All work is dependent on the contractor receiving proper materials for each job function. It can be changed or canceled at any time. This week, daytime work is scheduled focusing on landscaping, rock blanket installation, and related tasks. Night work may involve lane closures as crews install guardrails. Construction continues in both directions between Clinton Keith Road and McCall Boulevard (postmiles R12.51– R20.842). Commuter access will remain available during daytime work, while lane closures will be necessary for night work. Drivers should anticipate traffic delays and plan-ahead. Watch for signage alerting motorists of the construction zone.

Lake Elsinore

Caltrans is alerting the public that construction contractors on State Route 74, the Ortega Highway, are doing $4 million emergency

Jose Medina sworn in as Riverside County First District Supervisor

Jose Medina was sworn in as Riverside County’s First District supervisor on Wednesday, June 8, 2025, at the first board meeting of the year. Riverside County Judge Jorge Hernandez administered the oath of office to Medina, who previously served as Assemblymember for California’s 61st Assembly District. With Medina’s appointment, the majority of the Board of Supervisors is now Latino, joining Supervisor V. Manuel Perez and Supervisor Yxstian Gutierrez, who joined the board in March 2017 and January 2023, respectively.

The First Supervisorial District includes the cities of Riverside and Perris, and the unincorporated areas of Good Hope, Highgrove, March Air Reserve Base, Mead Valley, and Meadowbrook.

“This is a defining moment for Riverside County, and I’m eager to collaborate with my colleagues to deliver meaningful results for our communities,” said Supervisor Jose Medina. “I’m excited to work alongside my colleagues to make Riverside County more equitable, prosperous, and the best in California. I’m ready to get to work.”

Medina’s passion for public service comes from his family. His father, a Panama native,

work due to last year’s Airport Fire requiring daytime flagging and lane closure operations.The repair project location is from Grand Avenue to Decker Canyon Road near El Cariso Village. Daytime flagging will occur from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., dependent on contractor availability.

The work is all part of an emergency project to repair damages sustained from the recent Airport Fire. Work will initially occur to clear drainage and remove trees for the safety of drivers and the roadway.

Caltrans asks drivers, please be mindful when passing through the construction zone. Flagging operations are scheduled to occur at daytime hours at various locations. This may cause delays, so plan ahead, as flagging will be performed in both directions and may take up to 15-minutes of wait time per side.

Please reduce your speed when near work areas for the safety of crews and other drivers on the route. Signage will be placed ahead to indicate approaching roadway work. Use alternate routes including I-5 and SR-91 to avoid delays. Visit quickmap.dot. ca.gov and download the mobile application to better plan your route. All work is planned for completion by summer 2025.

Hemet

Caltrans continues work on SR-74 (Florida Ave.) in Hemet. The work zone is from Winchester Road (PM 34.3) to Fairview

Avenue (PM 45.1) for the project length of 11.2 miles.

Driveway, curb ramp, sidewalk construction, paving and micro trenching is still taking place. This past week with much of the repaving work complete lane reflectors and stripping lines have been installed making it easier for drivers to see where the striping will be taking place.

Still watch for alternate route signage! Working hours are usually from Sunday nights through Thursdays from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. Night work ends Friday morning. The daily work is from Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

With work still continuing motorists should be alert for more concrete pours at different locations as needed. These pours may require some temporary driveway and lane closures.

Other work throughout the work zone includes electrical and pothole repairs.

Motorists are also required to reduce their speeds in the work zones which will be reduced to 10 mph. The construction, barring no more unexpected weather conditions, should be complete by this summer.

San Jacinto RCTC reminds motorists in San Jacinto and Moreno Valley a portion of Gilman Springs road from Highway 74 (Sanderson Ave. to Lamb Canyon) to Bridge Street remains closed. The work is straightening out lanes and adding

more safety improvements. San Jacinto motorists can stay on the Ramona Expressway until they reach Bridge Street on the right that is still open to Gilman Springs where they can make a left turn at the light on to Gilman Springs leading to Moreno Valley and Highway 60.

Perris

Caltrans contractors are working on both northbound and southbound I-215 in the Perris area that will be taking place until the fall of 2026. The work is between the San Jacinto River Bridge and the Ramona Expressway.

The project will refurbish the existing roads with new pavement, enhance safety, and improve accessibility on the well traveled thoroughfare. The scheduled work will take place from Monday through Friday. The daytime activities are planned from 6:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with commuter access remaining open. Activities include construction and related tasks at Redlands Avenue, such as backfilling the mow strip, excavation, and installation. Motorists are advised to anticipate potential delays and plan ahead. This project is anticipated to be completed in fall 2026. It is hoped the pavement rehabilitation project will help improve safety, ride quality, reduce traffic disruption, and extend pavement life.

Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com

Senator Seyarto receives committee assignments for 2025-26 Legislative Session

SACRAMENTO – Senator Kelly Seyarto (R-Murrieta) announces that Senate President pro Tempore Mike McGuire has appointed him to serve on seven Senate committees for the 2025-2026 legislative session, four of which include the leadership role of Vice-Chair. The committees include: Appropriations (ViceChair), Budget and Fiscal Review (Subcommittee #5 on Corrections, Judiciary, Labor, and Transportation), Housing (Vice-

TANK from page B-8

will provide daily independent inspection services daily. The inspections will include the abatement of heavy metals, surface

immigrated to the U.S. to study civil engineering, while his mother worked as a Spanish translator for the state government. Both encouraged him to pursue education and use it to highlight the importance of history and culture.

After earning a bachelor’s degree in Latin American studies and a master’s degree in history from the University of California, Riverside, Medina built a career in education. His professional background includes teaching for the Riverside Unified School District, participating in the Riverside City Teachers Association, and serving as a representative on the state council of the California Teachers Association. Additionally, he held a position on the Jurupa Unified School District Board of Education and completed three terms on the Riverside Community College District Board of Trustees. Medina is married to Linda. He has two adult children and two grandchildren. Also during the meeting, Supervisor V. Manuel Perez was selected by the board to serve as the 2025 Chair, and Supervisor Karen Spiegel was named Vice Chair.

Chair), Local Government, Natural Resources (Vice-Chair), Public Safety (Vice-Chair), and Transportation. “I am honored to continue serving on these key committees which address a wide range of critical issues directly impacting the communities of our 32nd Senate District,” said Senator Seyarto. “I look forward to working with my colleagues to develop practical and meaningful solutions that reflect the trust and priorities of the people

preparation, and the application of the high-performance coating system. The inspection services will also ensure that technical and contractual requirements are properly met and that quality and

we serve.”

Senator Kelly Seyarto has served in the State Senate since 2022, after serving two years in the State Assembly. He is a former Mayor and Councilmember for the City of Murrieta and served numerous communities during a fire service career that spanned 35 years. He retired at the rank of Battalion Chief from the Los Angeles County Fire Department in 2015.

Senator Kelly Seyarto represents California’s 32nd Senate District.

regulatory standards are achieved. The company will be paid $80,000 to inspect all three water tanks. Joe Naiman can be reached at jnaiman@reedermedia.com

Jose Medina is the newest Riverside County District Supervisor, representing the First District.

Valley News/Courtesy photo

OPINION

A warning from firefighters and SCE: More high Santa Ana winds may occur. Be prepared!

Tony Ault Staff Writer

While the predicted high Santa Ana winds did not hit the Inland Valleys last week, the winds in Los Angeles continued, although at a slower pace, giving firefighters a chance to reduce those raging fires that have destroyed thousands of structures and many homes.

The National Weather Service is predicting an uptick in those dreaded Santa Anas again this week, but they may again miss us. Such may not be the case in Los Angeles and San Bernardino.

Even though those winds have

died down, the weather service and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) are keeping the area under a severe fire watch because of the long period of lack of rain in the Inland Empire and our Valleys resulting in very low humidity.

Credit is due to many of the Temecula, Menifee, Murrieta, Lake Elsinore, Wildomar, and San Jacinto Valley firefighters who have been called to help quell those raging Los Angeles area fires. Even with the drawdown of area firefighters to Los Angeles, those remaining U.S. Forest Service and local first responders in our valleys

have been quickly responding and knocking down any potentially destructive wildfires breaking out in the nearby super dry foothills.

Thanks goes out to the many thoughtful residents in our area who have responded to offer help and goods to those Los Angeles fire victims, many who have lost everything they owned. More help is needed.

With the low humidity and rainless days the Southern California Edison company, often criticized by their own customers for the recent Public Service Power Shutoffs in the area, had this to say in messages to its customers

in the area.

“We are closely monitoring this wind event, with strong winds expected through Thursday (January 23). Your safety is our top priority. Crews are working hard to restore power and protect communities.” The result has been a series of PSPS in many areas throughout our valleys causing food spoilage, traffic congestion because of outed or reduced traffic signals and many temporary business closures. Many of those businesses are now open and the traffic lights are working correctly.

The Weather Service points out that these conditions in the area

are unprecedented, where instead of the average 4 inches of rain we receive during this rainy season, less than 0.3% has been recorded. These conditions may continue with only a slight chance of rain expected late this week.

SCE and other power companies have been shutting down some of their transmission lines in the highest fire-prone areas bringing about the area PSPS, Fortunately, few power lines have been knocked down by the winds thus far. Be aware this still is the time of the Santa Ana wind and earthquake season and be prepared and be patient.

Movie review: Double feature – ‘Wolf Man’ and ‘One of Them Days’

Bob Garver Contributor

Since two new releases made about $11 million each at the domestic box office this past weekend, and since I don’t have much to say about either movie, I’ve decided to throw them both a quick review.

Wolf Man January horror movies are a special breed. The studio knows they can’t compete with blockbusters in the summer or better horror at Halloween, so they dump them in January hoping that the lack of competition will lead to a minor hit. This year’s offering is “Wolf Man,” a film whose trailer was so spiritedly derided that the film was practically declared a bomb before it even opened. The film follows the Lovell family – father Blake (Christopher Abbott), mother Charlotte (Julia Garner) and daughter Ginger (Matilda Firth) – as they head to the home of Blake’s estranged father (Sam Jaeger) in the mountains of Oregon. Before they can arrive, the family is involved in a harrowing car crash and Blake is attacked by a… his closest approximation is a wolf, but this creature stood on two legs. They seek refuge in the old house while hiding from the beast outside, but Blake starts going through a terrifying transformation that presents a danger on the inside.

Early parts of the movie show promise. Abbott is putting in a sincere performance, good decisions are made with editing and special effects, and the themes of intergenerational trauma are taken surprisingly seriously. I was thinking that maybe horror fans had been too quick to dismiss the movie, but then the family started making stupid horror movie decisions, the movie started getting cheaper with its scares, and by the end all its life was drained and it isn’t even a vampire movie. “Wolf Man” wasn’t the outright bomb I was expecting, but I can see why it was stuck in January.

Grade: C

“Wolf Man” is rated R for bloody

violent content, grisly images, and language. Its running time is 103 minutes.

One of Them Days

“One of Them Days” follows two roommates and best friends, Dreux (Keke Palmer) and Alyssa (SZA), as they struggle to raise an emergency $1,500 to avoid eviction. Dreux is the responsible one, on the verge of a big promotion at work. Alyssa is the irresponsible one that trusted her no-good boyfriend (Joshua David Neal) with their rent money in the first place. Together they’ll

get into some increasingly crazy and desperate adventures involving predatory loans, blood donation, abandoned sneakers, and more.

The good news is that Palmer and SZA have given life to two very funny and likeable characters that play extremely well off each other. The bad news is that they’re only funny with each other, the film fails to create any other funny or memorable characters. This wouldn’t be a problem if the story could emphasize the mains more, but this is a movie that requires

From the desk of Chuck Washington, District 3 County Supervisor

Dear Third District Resident,

As we turn the page to a new year, I am excited about the opportunities ahead and the continued progress we can achieve together in the Third District. Our commitment to fostering a stronger, more vibrant community remains steadfast as we work to enhance partnerships, expand access to resources, and support initiatives that drive success for all.

As we move into January, it is important to take time to reflect on several significant observances that shape our values and remind us of our shared concerns.

National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day serves as a moment to express gratitude to the brave men and women who work tirelessly to protect and serve our community. Their dedication is vital to ensuring our neighborhoods remain safe and secure.

Martin Luther King, Jr., National Day of Service encourages us to honor Dr. King’s enduring legacy of equality, justice, and unity by giving back to those in need.

It is a powerful reminder of the impact we can have when we come together in service.

Holocaust Remembrance Day

reminds us to reflect on the past and reaffirm our unwavering commitment to combating hate and intolerance in all its forms, ensuring that such atrocities are never repeated.

Let us carry these lessons of gratitude, service, and unity with us, as we move forward. By working together, we can continue to create a Third District that is safe, inclusive, and resilient—a place where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Wishing you a happy and prosperous New Year.

Sincere regards, Chuck Washington County Supervisor

its leads to interact with a whole wacky neighborhood that can never find quite the right way to be wacky. It’s not even that the auxiliary characters are annoying or actively unfunny, they’re just so bland that they make no impression.

Watching “One of Them Days,” I thought about the film’s obvious influences, from “Clerks” to “Friday” to “Do the Right Thing,” and I thought about how those films would have gotten the most out of the clearly-eager supporting cast and put together a more memorable

film as a whole. As it is, we have a comedy where I’d estimate that a third to half of the gags work. I’ve had some painful experiences with worse ratios, but I can’t say this one made me feel fulfilled.

Grade: C

“One of Them Days” is rated R for language throughout, sexual material and brief drug use. Its running time is 97 minutes.

Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@ nyu.edu

A message from Yxstian Gutierrez, District 5 County Supervisor

Dear Residents of District 5,

As a proud rescue dog owner, I understand the need to take care of our furry friends. That’s why I am excited to announce a new program, launching on January 29th, dedicated to doing just that: the D5 Furry Pets Foster Care Program.

I created this program to help reduce the amount of pets in our shelter and increase adoptions. We will provide eligible residents with a stipend of $25 for every night they foster a pet in need, up to $50 per night if they foster a pair of dogs or cats, or a litter of puppies or kittens. During this time, we will also cover basic supplies needed for the care of the pet, such as food.

If eligible, you can foster the pet for up to 21 days, a value of $525-$1050. Plus, if you can get the pet adopted into a new home within two weeks or less, you can get a $150 bonus! I can personally attest to the joy and companionship our furry friends bring into our lives. They

offer us unwavering loyalty, endless affection, and family. By fostering a pet, you will not only make additional income but will also help reduce the amount of pets in the San Jacinto Valley Animal Campus while helping our furry friends find a home.

So, if you are interested or know someone who may be, please stay tuned and visit www.RCDAS.org/ furry-pets on January 29th! Sincerely, Yxstian Gutierrez County Supervisor

Alcala Statement was

County on 01/14/2025 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411 ET SEQ., BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE). I HEREBY CERTIFY THAT THIS COPY IS A CORRECT COPY OF THE ORIGINAL STATEMENT ON FILE IN MY OFFICE. PETER ALDANA RIVERSIDE COUNTY CLERK. LEGAL: 4311 PUBLISHED: January 24, 31, February 7, 14, 2025