Valley News - March 3, 2023

La Cresta fatal shooting victim identified

The deceased victim from the Feb. 26 shooting in La Cresta has been identified as 35-year-old Andrew Cisneros of La Cresta.

Menifee announces road and construction project online map

Menifee’s street project and construction update can now be found on a new online map that will exchange motorists’ travel information, providing a digital representation of where trafficrelated activities are occurring throughout Menifee.

Assistance League supports LCAP counselors and their students

Assistance League of Temecula Valley recently received a grant from the City of Temecula to be used to support children and families within the city, and to support local businesses. Assistance League members are working with Local Control and Accountability Plan counselors in local middle and high schools to provide some welcome items for the children served by these counselors. LCAP counselors, along with the school social workers, aid homeless youth, children of low-income families and newly arrived immigrants.

Petco Love shares some with Animal Friends of the Valleys

help Animal Friends of the Valleys’

Capital Campaign to build its low cost spay and neuter clinic, according to the Wildomar nonprofit.

Petco Love is a national nonprofit that is leading change for pets by harnessing the power of

love to make communities and pet families closer, stronger and healthier. Since its founding in 1999, Petco Love has invested $330 million in adoption and other lifesaving efforts. Petco Love also

helps find loving homes for pets in partnership with Petco and more than 4,000 organizations, such as AFV, across North America, with

SW Riverside City Managers outline achievements at SRCAR breakfast

Tony Ault Staff Writer

Real estate agents and brokers, their associated financial representatives and interested residents heard the latest economic news from Southwest Riverside County cities at the Southwest Riverside County Association of Realtors Breakfast with City Managers Feb. 23.

The annual SRCAR meeting with city managers filled every table of the Grand Ballroom at Pechanga Resort and Casino with paid members, chambers of commerce officials and residents interested in the area economies of Temecula, Murrieta, Lake Elsinore, Menifee, Wildomar and Canyon Lake.

Sharing the different cities’ latest achievements were city managers Aaron Adams from Temecula, Kim Summers from Murrieta, Jason

Murrieta Valley High School named champions at annual Riverside County Mock Trial Competition

RIVERSIDE - The verdict is in, and Murrieta Valley High School from the Murrieta Valley Unified School District emerged victorious after seven rounds of competition concluded at the 41st Annual Riverside County Mock Trial Competition on Thursday, Feb. 23. At the final round held at Riverside’s Historic Courthouse, Martin Luther King High School played the role of the prosecution and Murrieta Valley High School filled the role of the defense.

Murrieta Valley High School will now represent Riverside County at the California Mock Trial competition in Los Angeles,

see COMPETITION, page A-2

Camille Battelle (left), GM of Petco in Lake Elsinore presents a big $500,000 check from the Petco Love nonprofit to Animal Friends of the Valleys Beth Soltysiak, Director of Development, to help fund a new spay/neuter facility.

Valley News/Shane Gibson photo

Hundreds of Southwest Riverside County Realtors, Chamber of Commerce members, city officials, businessmen, finance officers and others fill every seat at the Southwest Riverside County Association of Realtors Breakfast with City Managers Feb. 23 at Pechanga Resort and Casino’s Grand Ballroom. Valley News/Tony Ault photo

Valley News Staff

Tony Ault Staff Writer

Murrieta City Council reviews second quarter fiscal year budget reports

Tony Ault Staff Writer

The Murrieta City Council reviewed the 2022-2023 fiscal year’s second quarter budget update and approved the 2023 Legislative Platform at the Feb. 21 regular meeting at city hall.

With all the council members present, Javier Carcamo, finance director, and Jennifer Terry, finance manager, presented the City of Murrieta’s General Fund Revenue adopted budget for the fiscal year that totaled $56,810,893 and amended upward at $59,521,400.

Dr. Michael H. Momeni passed Feb. 17, 2023, in Temecula, California. Michael was born in Tehran, Iran on March 22, 1938. He became a U.S. citizen in 1966. He then went on to earn a Ph.D. in Biophysics from the University of Iowa. While a student in Iowa City, he met his beloved wife of 53 years, Jo Ann Hafner.

He is survived by his wife, Jo Ann Hafner Momeni; children

Kevin Momeni (Amery, Wisconsin), Dr. Catherine Sandhofer (Robert) (Los Angeles), Richard Momeni (San Diego), and Carrie Momeni (Boulder, Colorado); grandchildren Amanda Momeni, Ashly Ninke (Andrew), Simon Sandhofer, and Maya Sandhofer.

A memorial gathering is planned for Saturday, March 4 between 1 and 4 p.m. at the England Family Mortuary, 27135 Madison Avenue, Temecula. A short service of remembrance will be held at 2:30. Interment of ashes will be at a later date at the Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque, Iowa.

The family wishes to thank Michael and Jo Ann’s neighbors for their kind support over the years. Michael was so happy to spend his retirement in his Temecula home and community. In particular, they want to thank their neighbor, Sindica Wade, for her incredible help during a very difficult day.

If friends or family wish to make a donation in Michael’s honor, they could consider a donation to the Sierra Club Foundation, the Temecula area Santa Margarita Group Sierra Club Organization or the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation.

for

The city received $28,116,846 of the projected revenue through Dec. 31, 2022 with additional revenues not expected until the end of this fiscal year. With the city expecting an additional $2,890,059, it puts the amended 2022-2023 fiscal year General Fund budget at $62,411,259, a $1,440,095 increase.

Carcamo spoke to Council Member Ron Holliday, who questioned the adoption of the currently lower revenue projections for the year. He

said those are expected, but were not all in as of yet, with them coming from property taxes and other revenue collected by Riverside County. The county distributes them to the city within the fiscal year. The expenditure budget increases of $2,890,059 are primarily in Personnel Costs, Operations & Maintenance, and Transfers Out according to the report.

The finance team went on to review the expected Measure T Funds for the fiscal year at $20,083,000 with $9,330,295 collected through Dec. 31. The proposed amendments totaled $5,995,500, bringing the expected revenue budget to $25,968,500 as a result of the increase in spending by residents in the city in the recent fiscal year. With the increase, the city is looking to purchase a new fire tiller truck with a 100-foot ladder and make improvements needed at various city fire stations, according to the city manager.

Current Measure T budgeted and amended expenditures totaled

$21,502,872 with $10,828,314 spent through Dec. 31. The proposed adjustments amount to $721,087, bringing the total fiscal year budget to $22,223,959 with a contribution of $3,744,541 from previous reserves to balance the budget.

Revenue budget increases are a combination of increases and decreases in various expense categories including reductions in Capital Outlay, increases in operations and maintenance and increased operating transfers for the Fire and Community Services Districts.

The report explained, “The changes reflect an estimated net contribution to the Unassigned Fund Balance of $3,277,667 as of June 30, 2023. Fire District Fund

Proposed Changes Revenue budget increases of $358,298 in Property Taxes and Reimbursements from the State related to Strike Team Mutual Aid (excluding increases in the Operating Transfer). Expenditure budget increases of $1,078,928 is due to regular and Strike Team overtime with Worker’s Compensa-

tion more than budgeted.”

More details of the second quarter financial report can be seen on the Murrieta City Council meeting reports from Feb. 21 at the Murrieta City website onbase.murrietaca. gov

The council followed the finance presentation with discussion and praise for the current federal and state legislative team for keeping the council well informed about current legislation that would affect the city and its residents, particularly the unfunded mandates. They approved and adopted the 2023 Legislative Platform that will continue to provide the city an opportunity, through letters and visits to the state and federal capitals, to approve or deny the current legislation going through the legislature and congress, and the local elected government representatives.

The council delayed planned recognition ceremonies for the many city commissioners until a later time and approved or adopted 10 consent calendar items and heard a few public comments.

Assistance League supports LCAP counselors and their students

Assistance League of Temecula Valley recently received a grant from the City of Temecula to be used to support children and families within the city, and to support local businesses.

Assistance League members are working with Local Control and Accountability Plan counselors in local middle and high schools to provide some welcome items for the children served by these counselors. LCAP counselors, along with the school social workers, aid homeless youth, children of lowincome families and newly arrived immigrants. They serve as a lifeline for these families within the community, helping them navigate the social services that are available, and making sure that students are supported and celebrated for their academic progress.

The Assistance League met with the counselors, explained the parameters of the grant, and asked for ideas to support students. Recently Assistance League members Connie Harris and Electra Demos met with Ms. Mirimanian, LCAP counselor for Margarita Middle School, and Ms. Avila, the school social worker, to deliver some of their requests. Harris and Demos arrived with new backpacks, boxes of healthy snacks, a flat of water, fidgets, and small gift cards to local, student-favorite restau-

on March 17-19. The National Mock Trial Competition will be held on May 18-20, in Little Rock, Arkansas.

rants. Because so many families are experiencing food insecurity during this time of high inflation, the Assistance League also ordered “Food Only” gift cards to the Aldi grocery store.

“It has been so much fun to meet Ms. Mirimanian and Ms. Avila; we love being their ‘personal shoppers’ to fulfill their wish lists,” Demos said. “These ladies shared that they have been purchasing the snacks and other needed items for their students out of their own personal money, so we are thrilled to have this grant to help. The gift cards will be used as incentives to recognize student achievement in academics and attendance. We are very grateful to the City of Temecula for awarding this grant, and we are delighted to support the counselors and the businesses in our community in this way.”

The Temecula Valley chapter is hosting a New Membership Open House “Mocktails & Charcuterie” on March 22 at 11 a.m. in the chapter meeting room adjacent to the thrift shop. Anyone interested in learning more about the chapter and its programs, is welcome to attend.

Assistance League Thrift Shop, 28720 Via Montezuma, Temecula, is the main source of revenue for all chapter programs. Assistance League of Temecula Valley is a nonprofit, all volunteer phil-

In the semifinal round held on Tuesday, Feb. 21, defending champion Notre Dame High School was defeated by Martin Luther King High School, and Murrieta Valley High School eliminated Hemet High School to earn a spot in the championship round.

This year’s case, People vs. Franks, revolved around the trial of Jordan Franks, a young actor who finished a run of performances of the Shakespeare-adaptation Macbeth at Sea on the cruise ship Heart of the Ocean. Franks was charged with robbery and battery of Franks’ fellow actor, Billie Scher. The alleged crime was the subject of the fictional court case that nearly 400 students from high schools in Riverside County

anthropic 501(c)(3) corporation dedicated to serving the needs of families in Southwest Riverside County for the last 30 years. For more information about philan-

had been arguing during multiple rounds of competition in Indio, Murrieta and Riverside courtrooms since January 26.

Mock Trial involves students arguing cases in front of real judges, and scored by real attorneys. The competition is open to all students in grades 9 through 12 enrolled in public and private high schools in Riverside County. Teams consist of 8-25 students filling the courtroom roles of defense and prosecution attorneys, witnesses, clerks and more. For the first time in the history of Riverside County Mock Trial, the role of courtroom artists was integrated into the competition. On February 11, more than a dozen students were honored for top performances with blue rib-

thropic programs or membership information, call 951-694-8018 or visit the chapter website at www. assistanceleague.org/temeculavalley.

bons and prestigious internships at local legal organizations after the fourth round of competition. In 2022, first-time winner Notre Dame High School defeated Poly High School (Riverside USD). For a complete listing of the schedules and locations for all rounds of the competition, visit www.rcoe.us/ student-events/mock-trial.

The Riverside County Mock Trial is sponsored by the Riverside County Office of Education, the Riverside County Bar Association and the Riverside County Superior Courts, in cooperation with the Constitutional Rights Foundation. Since 1983, more than 13,500 Riverside County students have participated in Mock Trial.

Top left is Lauren Moreno, Paloma Elementary; top right is Inna Peart with gift cards for Susan H. Nelson High School; Bottom right is Suezanne Jerez, social worker, Vail Ranch Middle School; and bottom left are Ms. Mirimanian, LCAP Counselor for Margarita Middle School, and Ms. Avila, the school social worker.

Valley News/Courtesy photos

Simpson from Lake Elsinore, Dan York from Wildomar, incoming city manager Nicole Dailey from Canyon Lake and Assistant City Manager Rachel Clayton for Menifee. She represented City Manager Armando Villa who was ill and unable to attend that morning.

Presiding over the event as emcee was SRCAR government affairs director Adam A. Ruiz, who followed the managers’ updates and led an interesting question and answer session with each speaker seated together on stage after their city introductions.

First at the podium to speak was Nicole Dailey from Canyon Lake who introduced the private community between Menifee and Lake Elsinore, which is home to 11,000 people living in lakefront homes on 4,800 parcels. Managed by the Property Owners Association, Canyon Lake opened the city’s first fire department in the last year. She said it was the hope of the newer Riverside County city to open some of its surrounding Bureau of Land Management land for new homeowners. Canyon Lake is located on 4.6 square miles of land with a large lake in the center. She invited boater groups to come visit and enjoy the private lake community.

Jason Simpson from Lake Elsinore followed Dailey’s talk to say thousands of new homes were either under construction or soon to be in his city. He said

Lake Elsinore is at the forefront of large land and water entertainment, especially with the lake and Storm Stadium, home of the minor league baseball team. He said the lake is now open after being closed with a major algae bloom. Measures are now being taken to overcome the algae growths in the future. He said there are 57 community Capital Improvement projects underway that were planned to better improve the good quality of life for the residents. A new city hall will soon be coming to the city Rachel Clayton from Menifee,

with a new highly-qualified police department, said the city is now at 109,000 residents and is expected to reach 150,000 (by buildout) with a high quality of life. The city boasts of $60 million in new projects with the Holland Bridge one of the largest, now under construction. She said the city is expected to build 5,000 new living units, mostly multifamily, in one project, with a Boys & Girls Club in the middle. She envisioned Menifee becoming the hub of Southwest Riverside County.

Kim Summers from Murrieta shared some of the city’s latest projects including the recent

completion of Kaiser Hospital Phase II and the upcoming opening of the Murrieta Hot Springs resort, looking to become one of the finest wellness centers in the nation. Along with the opening of the resort comes the widening of busy Murrieta Hot Springs Road. These projects are expected to bring in $50 million in revenue to the city by next year. She said the community is enjoying the growing historic downtown area with Village Walk and other events, and an expanded city library. Eight new playgrounds are opening in neighborhoods, and the school district is considered one of the best in the state. An additional medic squad has been activated in Menifee Rescue & Fire, the city’s own award-winning public safety department.

Aaron Adams, one of the longest serving city managers in Southwest Riverside County at over 10 years, praised Temecula’s latest revenue increase of $8 million. He was especially delighted to see the city start the $138 million French Valley Parkway Phase II that will prevent the huge traffic tie ups at the I-15/215 Interchange, benefitting not only the city but the entire region. It is expected to be completed in 24 months. He said five new deputies have been added to the police force manning the Old Town and City Hall area. He said the city is enjoying a strong working population with only a 2.8% unemployment rate. A new community center is being built

along with a new sports park, both of which are completely funded. Temecula residents will soon see a new bike trail that surrounds the entire city. He proudly said the $60 million city hall mortgage has been completely paid off with the help of the city’s estimated $1.1 billion economy.

Daniel York from Wildomar reported his city as having some of the most desirable land in the area with several hotels eyeing the community. He said the city has had a very good year in 2022 and now has a balanced budget with a 15% reserve already after only eight years. He said the Inland Valley Medical Center is under construction and Mt. San Jacinto College is looking at establishing a first of its kind agricultural research center on 80 acres of land. A long-awaited state-of -the-art shooting range and academy is soon to come to the city as well.

Summation

Emcee Ruiz said after the managers introductions that it appeared all of the cities in Southwest Riverside County are working together on many of the area’s problems including homelessness, mental health issues, improving traffic flow, growth outpacing infrastructure, and improving higher education and employment opportunities. He opened the floor to questions from those attending, calling each of the managers to have a seat on the stage, where many questions were asked.

Southwest Riverside City Managers answer questions at SRCAR meeting

Tony Ault

Staff Writer

Following the city managers’ 20-minute updates at the annual SRCAR Breakfast with City Managers Thursday, Feb. 23, a question and answer session was opened with questions directed to all or one of the managers on some serious issues facing the area’s cities. Moderating the Q&A was the Realtors association government a ffairs director Adam A. Ruiz. Here are just a few of the questions and answers fielded by the city managers.

Question: Are short-term rentals currently permitted in each of your cities, and if not, do you expect that to change in the future?

Answers: “For Temecula we do not allow short-term rentals. I don’t expect us (the city council) to revisit that at this point,” City Manager Aaron Adams said.

“In Wildomar we probably have about $50,000 in vacation rentals… This year we are going to bring to our council a mid-year policy on short-term rentals, but at this point nothing has been approved,” City Manager David York said.

“In Lake Elsinore, we do allow them,” City Manager Jason Simpson said. “To process them, it’s a simple process.”

“We do not allow them at this time,” Menifee Assistant Manager Rachel Clayton said. “At this time we do see them in the foreseeable future.”

“In Murrieta we do allow shortterm rentals,” City Manager Kim Summers said. “It does require a permit…there has to be an owner on the property.”

“In Canyon Lake they are not

permitted either,” Nicole Dailey, incoming Canyon Lake city manager, said. And at this time there is no interest in changing that policy.”

Question: Is there any interest in any of the cities in annexing any part of the Winchester, French Valley area?

Answers: “Is there an interest in annexing in the French Valley area, no…it really didn’t make any financial sense to annex it, “ said Adams for Temecula.

“We did have some information on it in our five year strategic plan and to remove any plan to annex Menifee’s future plans,” Clayton said. “And only to partner with the Winchester Plan in any areas of influence and in the county that are key to that area.”

Question: With the growth of the medical field and the expansion of hospitals in Menifee what are the plans to accommodate those services?

Answer: “There are no specific plans for that, but we are exploring that,” Clayton said.

Question: In Murrieta, “What about the opening of the Hot Springs Resort to the public?”

Answer : “We are looking at November,” Summers said. “It will be the first stage of the project. It will be split in two. They want to say, ‘Wherever you are on your road to wellness, we want to be the top in living,’ or something like that…They are moving right along.”

Question: In Temecula, “What is going on in the Promenade?”

Answer: “The Promenade Mall holding company has done a really good job in reinventing itself,” Adams said. “We have seen multiple expansions. I am confident

in the next decade or two they will be looking to bring in that next tenant.”

Question: “What are the city’s concerns about SB9 (affordable housing mandates) and local control?”

Answers: “We were one of the first cities proudly announcing a SB9 project,” York, from Wildomar, said. “We are expecting construction to begin this next year and we have a second application.”

“The City of Temecula came out strong that we were opposed to Senate Bill 9,” Adams said. “We spent an enormous amount of our energy master planning our city, land uses and where people should build… SB9 undermines all of that. So for Temecula, we have been back and forth with the city council a number of times for updates… We have put a moratorium on this for a year.”

“The legislature is really removing opportunities for us to control our community and our land use,” Simpson said. “Legislation like that may help some larger metropolitan areas but usually creates issues for smaller communities like us. It’s not a good thing, but we have little say in it.”

“The only thing that we do control is the design, so with that, our planning department has standardized the ADU (additional dwelling units) plans to streamline the process and work with the community when we do receive those applications,” Clayton, from Menifee, said.

“We haven’t seen a huge demand,” Murrieta’s Summers said.

“We don’t like it and are pushing that on the legislature, but trying to be prepared when they do start

coming in and we know they will.”

“Well, I’m not 100% sure,” Dailey said. “I know the council has adopted ADU changes as required…but I will look into that.”

Question: What kind of four year universities or trade schools would you like to see come into the communities?

Answers: “I think all of us up here agree we all have partnerships with each other and different institutions and anything that is great to the region, that fits all of us,” Summers said. “There is some interest in establishing relationships with Cal State San Marcos potentially for all our cities.”

“We all recognize that higher education is important to all our cities,” Adams said. “Those relationships with Cal State San Marcos are strong and the 2 plus 2 programs that are going on…I think we are going to circle all of those things real well.”

Question: “What is the status of the new Krikorian Theater in Menifee?”

Answer: “We are working with Mr. Krikorian…We know he has made progress and is beginning with the retail work and restaurant retail before moving forward with the theater..But his credit fell through and triggered the loss of other funding sources,” Clayton said. “We are looking forward to an update in the next couple of months.”

Question : What about the homeless situation in the communities?

Answers: “We are meeting with county supervisor Washington right now,” York said. “There is a meeting with the county working

very closely with the Governor’s Office to bring more money to our region. That’s really where we have been short…. Yep, that is a problem.”

“It is probably the most socially complicated issue that crosses our desk,” Adams said. “But I do think we are doing a really good job as a state and the region. We have invested heavily in this. We have learned a lot. We have made mistakes but have done some things really well.”

“ For our city we have done well. We know where they are. The approach we take is pretty simple with the Task Force,” Lake Elsinore’s Simpson said. “We have a transitional housing center that is actually full right now with 14 beds in it.”

“We do have a dedicated police officer that partners with a health clinician with the county,” Clayton said. “We are expanding that, but at this time we also know where the regular players are and we work with them.”

“We are trying to work together as a region and find the best way to do it,” Summers said. “Because we are just pushing people from one place to another and that just doesn’t work…It’s just a challenge.”

Ruiz, at the conclusion of the breakfast, thanked the many sponsors ot the the meeting including, Realty One Group, CR&R, All Dry cleaners, WeLease, City of Murrieta, Move Home Realty, myNHD, ERA Donahoe Realty, First Team Real Estate, Rancon Group, Lake Elsinore Chamber of Commerce and Willdan investments..

Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com.

Campaign of Jonathan Ingram for Riverside County Supervisor raises nearly $80,000

The campaign of Jonathan Ingram, candidate for Supervisor of Riverside County’s newly redrawn Third District, announced today that nearly $80,000 has been raised, three times that of his incumbent opponent.

“With 2023 underway, my campaign for Supervisor is rapidly gaining momentum,” Ingram said.

“I’m humbled by the support after just getting started and look forward to the coming months.”

“Support of Ingram’s campaign ranges in donations from the thousands of people he served while on the Murrieta City Council to independent businesses and landowners,” campaign spokesperson Dennis Hollingsworth said. “In-

gram’s tenure on the council was characterized by his support for small businesses and the people and organizations that form a strong community.”

To view the list of donations, visit https://public.netfile.com/ pub2/?aid=CTRIV.

Jonathan Ingram served as a council member and mayor of

the City of Murrieta from 20142022. “As a longtime community member and small business owner, I understand our local issues and will work tirelessly to find resolutions for the residents of the Third District,” Ingram pledged.

The new boundaries of the Third Supervisorial District were recently adopted and include the cities

of Menifee, Murrieta, Temecula and Wildomar. The Third District also includes the unincorporated communities of Anza, Aguanga, Lake Riverside, Sage, French Valley, Winchester, Green Acres, Homeland, Romoland, East Hemet and part of Valle Vista.

Submitted by Jonathan Ingram for Supervisor.

SRCAR government affairs director Adam A. Ruiz introduces each of the Southwest Riverside City Managers at the SRCAR Breakfast with City Managers before their presentations at the Pechanga Resort Ballroom.

Valley News/Tony Ault photos

Incoming Canyon Lake City Manager Nicole Dailey speaks at the SRCAR Breakfast with City Managers.

Lake Elsinore City Manager Jason Simpson talks at the SRCAR Breakfast with City Managers.

Assistant Menifee City Manager Rachel Clayon, in City Manager Armando Villa’s absence due to an illness, speaks at the SRCAR Breakfast with City Managers.

Aaron Adams, Temecula’s city manager, talks about the city’s greatest achievement in the past year at the SRCAR Breakfast with City Managers.

Murrieta City Manager Kim Summers, gives a somewhat humorous talk about her city’s achievements at the SRCAR Breakfast with City Managers.

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As established long time local real estate professionals, we are proud and honored by this new affiliation, and look forward to being our communities voice on this TV show. It will air on Cable TV, as well as several streaming locations.

If you see us filming in the community, please feel free to come and say hello.

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Ken’s Corner

With our First Class marketing and pricing strategies, we are seeing excellent results! Two open houses this week-end on two separate properties and over 30 groups through each one. We know what it takes to create exceptional results like this that ultimately get your property SOLD for more money!

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Business Spotlight

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Welcome home to your luxury gated estate in highly desirable Gird Valley of fabulous Fallbrook. Truly a one level masterpiece meticulously detailed with the highest quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. Dramatic entry doors will welcome you to the picturesque views across the valley and to the mountains beyond. You will enjoy spaciousness and volume in every room of this magnificent home. Entertain your friends and family indoors or out with the sunken outdoor kitchen, pool and spa, covered patio or inviting family room all while enjoying the spectacular panoramic views. Enjoy a movie in your private Home Theatre, work out in the home gym area of the garage, or better yet, just enjoy the peace and quiet and soothing ocean breezes we are known for in south Fallbrook. Offered at $1,998,747

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Offered at $1,098,747

Sharon’s Corner

Based on this weekend’s Open House results, there are MANY people interested in finding out more about Fallbrook Real Estate, Lifestyle and Culture. I am happy to share everything I know about “Lovin life in Fallbrook” and I am proud to be able to share so many things that a life here could look like… truly endless possibilities!

Part of our job not only to sell your home, but help buyers envision THEIR LIFE HERE!

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Charity Spotlight

Darlene Osborn

Realtor® | DRE# 02093115

760-521-4277

“Darlene is an absolute dream to work with!! As first time home buyers, she really went above and beyond to make sure we understood and were comfortable every step of the way. There were multiple offers on our home, but Darlene fought to make sure ours was the one that was accepted!”

- Kristen and Gracie L.

John Graef

Realtor® | DRE# 01012451 john.graef@compass.com

760-453-1491

in today’s everchanging and more competitive Real Estate environment.

John lives and works in Fallbrook. As a Realtor® for over 34 years, he is proud to have served a number of Fallbrook homeowners. Some were already here, and many others came to our town through his hard work and local knowledge of all things Fallbrook. He stands ready to serve you!

Real Estate Done Right!

Fallbr k F d Pantry

Dos Lomas, Fallbrook

AFV from page A-1

pet adoptions of 6.5 million and counting.

“Our inves tment in Animal Friends of the Valleys is part of more than $15 million in investments recently announced by Petco Love to power local organizations across the country as part of our commitment to create a future in which no pet is unnecessarily euthanized,” Susanne Kogut, president of Petco Love, said.

“Our local investments are only part of our strategy to empower animal lovers to drive lifesaving change right alongside us. We also launched Petco Love Lost, a national lost and found database that uses pet facial recognition technology to simplify the search for lost pets.”

Peripheral Neuropathy Breakthrough!

“My feet feel like they’re on re.” “Each step feels like I’m walking through wet paint.”

“I live in constant fear that I’ll fall.” “I can’t sleep, my hands and feet tingle all night.”

What do all of these people have in common? ey su er from peripheral neuropathy. It’s estimated that more than 20 million people in the United States have peripheral neuropathy. Unfortunately this gure may be signi cantly higher as the disease is o en misdiagnosed because of its wide array of symptoms.

Sarika Connor, L.Ac, of Soma Acupuncture & Wellness in Temecula shares this belief. “I’ve been treating neuropathy, in all its various forms, for about a decade now and so o en my patients come to me because of the symptoms, not because of a diagnosis. ey see me on television, or read the testimonial of another patient and say to themselves ‘hey, I feel the same thing’.”

Frankie M. of Murrieta testi ed to this. “I remember my husband driving me to my consultation and I saw a woman running just outside our neighborhood. I was so envious - I just kept thinking ‘I would give anything just to walk again’. My primary care doctor told me my troubles with pain and balance were just symptoms of old age and gave me a prescription. I was so depressed.”

Fortunately Frankie would eventually see Sarika on the local news talking about similar symptoms and how she o ers a real solution at Soma Acupuncture. “I just knew I had to see her. She was my last hope.”

“Almost all of our patients come to us with a story similar to Frankie’s.

ey’ve been everywhere else.

ey’ve been told there’s no hope.

ey’ve been told ‘it’s just part of getting older’.” shares Amanda, a Patient Care Technician at Soma Acupuncture. “It just breaks my heart but I know how much we can help people like Frankie so I’m always so happy when they walk through our door.”

ose diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy o en face a very grim reality; Western medicine declares that there is no solution while most alternative therapies carry large price tags and o er little to no resolve. Which is why Sarika and the sta at Soma Acupuncture pride themselves on being ‘the last resort with the best results.’

Peripheral neuropathy is a result of damage to the nerves and this damage is commonly caused by lack of blood ow in the hands and feet. A lack of blood ow results in a lack of nutrients; the nerves then begin to degenerate and die which causes pain ranging from discomfort to debilitation. Because neuropathy is a degenerative condition, once those nerves begin to deteriorate they will continue to do so until they are completely expired, leaving those su ering with crippling balance issues. “In this case, the absence of pain is not necessarily a good thing,” shares Sarika. “ is usually indicates that your nerves are hanging on by a fragile thread.”

So how exactly is Sarika able to reverse the e ects of this degenerative disease? “Acupuncture has been used to increase blood ow for thousands of years which helps to get the necessary nutrients to the a ected nerves. But the real magic happens when I integrate ATP Resonance Bio erapy™. is is tech that was originally developed by NASA to expedite recovering and healing.”

“I just can’t say enough about Soma Acupuncture,” Frankie shared through tears of joy. “My husband and I moved here 3 years ago and he’s gone hiking almost every day. I always stayed home because of the pain and discomfort. Yesterday I walked the trail with him! And next week we’re starting ballroom dancing lessons. I am truly living life these days.”

“According to Frankie’s test results, she has seen a 74% improvement in pain and functionality, which is on par with a majority of our patients.” shares Amanda. “But more important than those test results is the joy she’s expressed being here and hearing

about all the amazing things she’s able to do because she feels great!”

By seamlessly blending the ancient science of acupuncture with modern medical solutions Sarika has achieved a 90% success rate in reversing the e ects of neuropathy. She starts each patient with an initial consultation during which a sensory exam is performed. “ is not only aids in making a proper diagnosis but it helps to de ne just how much nerve damage has occurred” tells the practitioner. “ is is important because if a patient has su ered more than 95% damage, there is little that I can do to help them. I’m familiar with the medical miracle but I know my limits as a practitioner and the limits of my medicine.”

When it comes to treating peripheral neuropathy, regardless of its origin, early detection greatly improves your chances of a full recovery.

If you or someone you love are su ering with chronic pain that presents as burning, tingling or ‘pins and needles’ or you’ve recently been diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy, it’s important to know that there are options. ere is hope.

Call (951) 597–0488 to schedule an initial consultation or visit SomaAcuWellness.com to read more incredible success stories.

AFV is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the humane care of animals through education and proactive animal service programs serving the cities of Lake Elsinore, Canyon Lake, Wildomar, Menifee, Murrieta, Temecula and surrounding rural county areas since 1987.

“This generous grant from Petco Love towards our new low cost spay/neuter clinic will allow AFV to continue our mission of saving lives by reducing pet overpopulation,” Monique Middleton, AFV’s executive director and chief animal control officer, said.

The clinic, which broke ground Nov. 14, 2022, and is scheduled to be completed in summer 2024, will serve shelter animals and community pets. It will be built on the property adjacent to the shelter at 33751 Mission Trail Road in Wildomar, replacing the existing spay/neuter clinic located in Lake Elsinore. The estimated cost for the new clinic is $2.7 million.

In 2021, AFV veterinarians performed nearly 13,000 shelter and community pet surgeries, yet demand keeps rising. The current modular facility is too small for the number of pets needing services. Also, during heavy rains the property floods and has often required the facility to close. When the clinic closes, animals in need must be turned away. The new facility will remain open seven days a week, despite challenging weather conditions. The goal is to unite the shelter and clinic campuses to make it more convenient for the communities AFV serves. Once fully staffed, the new clinic will be able to accommodate up to 120 surgeries per day with its four surgical areas.

“We are well on our way to securing funding for the new low cost spay/neuter and vaccination clinic,” Beth Soltysiak, director of development at AFV, said. “Terry and Cindy Gilmore made a substantial donation on behalf of their dog Bentley, who passed last year. Paradise Chevrolet Cadillac matched that funding which is so appreciated.”

Soltysiak said Petco Love has been a major partner with Animal Friends of the Valleys since 2017. She continued to encourage support from all avenues. Corporate and local businesses, along with thoughtful animal lovers, will help the organization reach its vision to end pet overpopulation and find a loving and forever home for all adoptable pets in its shelter. AFV is still seeking help to raise the “woof” on its new clinic and generous donors can have their names permanently etched into the clinic’s walls for future generations to see. The nonprofit can accept donations of cash, stocks, qualified charitable distributions, recurring gifts and/or estate planning gifts.

The new clinic will help community members care for their precious pets by promoting responsible pet ownership through spaying, neutering, microchipping and vaccination services.

Soltysiak can be reached at beth@afv.org or 951-805-6239.

For more information, contact 951-674-0618, http://www. afv.org, http://www.AFV.org/ capitalcampaign and http://www. petcolove.org.

Beth Soltysiak, Director of Development at Animal Friends of the Valleys welcomes guests at Petco in Lake Elsinore where a $500,000 grant investment from the Petco Ove nonprofit to help fund a new spay/neuter facility for Animal friends of the Valleys, Feb. 24.

Mo Middleton, Animal Friends of the Valleys animal control chief speaks about the importance of spay/neutering to avoid euthanizing animals due to overcrowding at shelters. Valley News/Shane Gibson photos

Guests gather at the Lake Elsinore Petco for a $500,000 check presentation from Petco Love to Animal Friends of the Valleys.

An artist’s rendering shows what the new Animal Friends of the Valleys spay/neuter facility will look like once completed.

Snow, rain and rainbows sweep through the Valley regions

Snow levels drop near the base of mountains around Hemet seen along Domenigoni Parkway after a series of cold storms move through the region, Feb. 26. Valley News/Shane Gibson photo

San Jacinto Peak is seen in a thick blanket of snow from Highway 74 after a series of cold storms move through the region.

Icicles are formed on the eaves of roofs in Idyllwild after a series of cold storms move through the region.

Vibrant rainbows appear over the Warm Spring Knolls community in Murrieta during the early morning of Feb. 24.

A double rainbow arches over Warm Spring Knolls in Murrieta on Feb. 24.

The warmth of the sunset shines through a wintry scene below Mount San Jacinto.

Valley News/Staff photo

Valley News/Staff photo

Valley News/Shane Gibson photo

Valley News/Shane Gibson photo

Valley News/Shane Gibson photo

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

CHILDREN’S EVENTS

March 4 – 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Family Day with Cornerstone Church, 34570 Monte Vista Drive, Wildomar. Gale Webb will be in attendance. Free eye exams for children, carnival games and a car show. Blood drive with Lifestream goes to 3 p.m. March 6 – 4:30 p.m. Dog Tales for children ages 3 to 12. Read to a certified therapy dog. Bring a book or choose a library book. Space is limited, please arrive

www.myvalleynews.com

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Serving the communities of Temecula, Murrieta, Wildomar, Menifee, Sun City, Lake Elsinore, Hemet, San Jacinto, and Anza weekly.

early. Murrieta Public Library

Community Room, 8 Town Square, Murrieta. Every Monday in March.

March 7 – 10:30 a.m. Toddler

Storytime. Ages newborn to 2. Register weekly at murappointments.as.me. A fun and interactive introduction to storytime for wriggly toddlers, followed by play time. Murrieta Public Library Community Room, 8 Town Square, Murrieta. Every Tuesday in March.

March 8 – 10:30 a.m. Preschool Storytime. Ages 3 to 5. Register weekly at murappointments.as.me. An independent group activity designed to prepare preschool-aged children for kindergarten. Children will attend on their own while their adults wait in the Garden of Verses. Murrieta Public Library

Community Room, 8 Town Square, Murrieta. Every Wednesday in March.

March 10, 11, 17, 18, 23, 24 and 25 – 7:30 p.m. The Spongebob Musical at the Old Town Temecula Theater, 42051 Main St., Temecula. Tickets at the box office or online at tickets.temeculatheater.org. For information call 866-653-8696.

March 12, 18, 19, 25 and 26 –

2 p.m. The Spongebob Musical at the Old Town Temecula Theater, 42051 Main St., Temecula. Tickets at the box office or online at tickets.temeculatheater.org. For information call 866-653-8696.

March 23 – 4 p.m. Art Studio at the Murrieta Public Library Community Room Room and Garden, 8 Town Square, Murrieta. Designed to help your child embrace their inner artist. Geared towards elementary-aged children.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

March 10 – 6 p.m. The 19th annual Black History Month Awards Ceremony will be held at Center for Spiritual Living, 40460 Stetson Ave., in Hemet. For more information, contact Mary Morse at marymorse@ humanrelationscouncil.com

March 10 – 6-9 p.m. Murrieta

Alternative Recreation Program for adults 18+ with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Theme is “Crazy Hair Night.” Murrieta Community Center, 41810 Juniper Street, Murrieta.

$2 per participant. Contact 951304-7275. Next program on

March 24, 6-9 p.m. Theme is “Fun Science Party.”

tion by an equine therapist. A $25 donation gives a free raffle ticket and drink. Children under 10 are free.

March 30 – 3:30-6:30 p.m.

Art Show at the Hemet Public Library. Join us in celebrating the work of Exceed Program participants from the “Art In the Park” sessions at the Hemet Public Library, located at 300 E. Latham St.

ONGOING – The City of Menifee offers in-city or out-of-city special event vendor applications online or at Menifee City Hall to apply for signature and other special events. Contact Menifee City Hall, 29844 Haun Road, 951-672-6777, or online at businesslicensing@cityofmenifee.us

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 – 1:30-5 p.m. Sun City Civic Association Monthly Square Dance sessions are held Sundays 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 800-510-2020 for help.

ONGOING – The Riverside County COVID-19 Business Assistance Grant Program is accepting online applications for business grants up to $10,000 at www.rivercobizhelp.org that can be used for employee retention, working capital, personal protective equipment purchases, rent or mortgage payments and paying vendor notices. Eligible businesses, including nonprofits, must be in Riverside County, with a minimum of one but less than 50 employees and operating for at least one year since March 1. For more information, call Riverside County Business and Community Services at 951955-0493.

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

March 1 to April 4 – Menifee needs volunteers for the Vietnam Memorial Wall coming to the Miller Jones Menifee Memorial Park and Mortuary in partnership with the city of Menifee and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1956. The two-thirds size replica of the Vietnam Memorial Wall will arrive in the city Tuesday, April 4, under escort and parade. Volunteers are needed for various work. Please contact Miller Jones Mortuary at 951-672-0777.

March 3-4 – 7 p.m. and 2 p.m. respectively. Canyon Lake Community Theater presents “Into the Woods” at the Lake Elsinore High School, 21800 Canyon Dr, in Wildomar with limited engagement. Tickets are $20-$30. For more information, visit www. MTIShow.com

March 4 – 8-11 a.m. Terrain Race at Diamond Stadium at 500 Diamond Drive, Lake Elsinore. Jump, climb, roll, and crawl your way through this one-of-a-kind obstacle course. Tickets and information at https://terrainrace. com/locations/san-bernardino

March 4 – 8-11 a.m. Temecula Valley Motoring Enthusiasts meet at the Lazy Dog Restaurant and Bar, 40754 Winchester Road, Temecula on the first Saturdays of the month. Local car group dedicated to friendship with anything on wheels.

March 7 and 21 – 6 p.m. Murrieta City Council meeting. Watch in person or online. Details at murrietaca.gov/agenda

March 9 – 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Temecula Valley Hospital and Southwest HealthcareWomen’s Expo 2023. Held at the Pechanga Resort Casino, 45000 Pechanga Parkway, Temecula. Women’s health information.

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-carepackages

ONGOING – Multiple Sclerosis Support Group Meeting meets the third Monday of each month at the Mary Phillips Senior Center, 41845 6th 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. A potluck lunch is followed by a cultural program and short business meeting. Please come and enjoy company with fellow Scandinavians. Call 951-309-1597 or 951-849-1690 for more information.

ONGOING – Noon to 1 p.m. Attend Murrieta Wildomar Chamber of Commerce’s weekly business briefing via Zoom or watch live on Facebook every Wednesday. Registration required at https://bit.ly/MWCBizBriefing. The chamber business briefing is an opportunity to hear from city, county and business leaders about current and relevant business information.

ONGOING – Menifee Community Services offers online driver’s education courses for a $21.95 fee. The course includes animated driving scenarios, instructional videos, sample test, 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-the-wheel instruction or a California driver’s permit. Contact 951-723-3880 or visit the city of Menifee to register at www.city of menifee.us

or by fax to (760) 723-9606. All correspondence must be dated, signed and include the writer’s full address and phone number in order to be considered for publication. All letters are submitted to editing to fit the the publication’s format.

Back Issues Available: A limited number of previous issues of Valley News and Anza Valley Outlook (prior to current week) are available for $1.50 each, plus $1.00 postage and handling ($2.50 total cost). Call (760) 723-7319 to order.

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March 11 – 1-2:30 p.m. 1885

Murrieta History Walking Tours presented by the KEA Mill at Clay Avenue in Murrieta. Led by Murrieta Historical Society President Jeffery Harmon. Walk the streets of the original Murrieta town site.

March 16 – 5-9 p.m. Murrieta Market Nights at Downtown Murrieta. Family-friendly fun, music, food and shopping from local vendors.

March 18 – 2 p.m. Wildlife

Appreciation Day presentation at Menifee’s Central Park, 30268 Civic Plaza Drive, Menifee.

March 18 – Noon--4 p.m.

STAT horse sanctuary presents a St. Patrick’s Day party fundraiser at 31530 Scott Road, Menifee.

Saving horses’ lives changes people. Music, raffles, presenta-

ONGOING – 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The Temecula Winchester Swap Meet continues, 33280 Newport Road in Winchester. Saturdays and Sundays only. 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 crafts. Come to the center in the northwest corner of Kalmia/Cal Oaks at the Interstate 215 exit in Murrieta.

ONGOING – Temecula’s Farmers Markets are offered in Old Town Temecula Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to noon, 4100

March 16 – 11 a.m. Healthy Menifee Programs at the North Annex Facility in Menifee at 29995 Evans Road.

April 8 – 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Hemet Woman’s Club is sponsoring a Car Seat Safety Clinic with the California Highway Patrol. Get car seats inspected and learn how to properly install them at this free event, taking place at the Hemet Valley Mall parking lot. 2204 W. Florida Ave, next to Polly’s Pies.

ONGOING – Want to help deployed American troops remotely? Help shop for most needed items without leaving your home! This is 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

ONGOING – 10 to 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 12-step recovery program for anyone suffering from food obsession, overeating, undereating or bulimia, has meetings throughout the U.S. and the world. Contact 781-932-6300, or for local meetings, call 925321-0170 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

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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. See www.va.gov/homeless

Movie review: ‘Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania’

Bob Garver

Special to the Valley News

I suppose it’s appropriate that movies starring Ant-Man aka Scott Lang, played by Paul Rudd, have always been rather “small” in the scheme of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Yes, he showed up for Captain America in 2016’s “Civil War” and played a role in saving the universe in 2019’s “Avengers: Endgame,” but those were parts of a team effort. In movies where he’s been the lead, the character’s contributions to the MCU have mostly been selfcontained, with action localized to San Francisco and villains like the miserable Yellowjacket, played by Corey Stoll, never getting off the ground to affect other heroes. New installment “Quantumania” throws that small scale out the window in favor of a whole new world to explore and a villain with long-term ramifications. I liked the smaller movies better, because even with the deceptive strength of an ant, the character isn’t cut out for this sort of heavy lifting.

The film sees Lang; his daughter Cassie, played by Kathryn Newton; girlfriend Hope van Dyne aka The Wasp, played by Evangeline Lilly, and her parents Hank, played by Michael Douglas, and Janet, played by Michelle Pfeiffer, all shrunken down and sent to the mysterious Quantum Realm. Yes, it’s technically infinitesimally small, but to the

characters, it’s a big mysterious world. The crew meet some new characters, like hole-obsessed gelatinous blob Veb, played by David Dastmalchian; exasperated psychic Quaz, played by William Jackson Harper; smarmy former freedom fighter Krylar, played by Bill Murray, and a repackaged old character that I believe now holds the title of “Worst in the MCU.”

One look at this character, and the entire movie became instantly irredeemable. I like the actor, but this role is going to haunt him for the rest of his career.

In trying to escape the Realm, Scott and company encounter villain Kang the Conqueror, played by Jonathan Majors. Advance word for this movie has told me that the MCU has big plans for Kang down the line, so it is just our first taste of him. I can’t say I’m terribly impressed – not with his character development, not with his ability to carry out a plan and not with his track record. I suppose he’s intimidating and dangerous enough, but his motivations go little beyond a need to “conquer” everything. He twice gets sloppy in concealing his megalomaniacal nature, which twice leads to his twice taking losses that will hurt his perception as a threat going forward. Then again, I will say that he’s off to a better start than Thanos, who spent six years as a vague grimacing presence dependent on underlings to do his bidding before he became a decent character

The special effects are unusually subpar for a movie of this importance. Of course, they’re at their worst when it comes to a certain henchman, but they’re unconvincing elsewhere too. There’s an overreliance on greenscreens, especially when characters are running away from falling rubble. Maybe it’s just that the Quantum Realm environment is so phony that the characters wouldn’t look like they’re in danger anyway. No wonder everyone wants to get out of the place so badly, it’s not worth staying or even conquering.

“Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania” shows early promise with Rudd’s effortless charm and Newton – of the surprisingly heartfelt horror movie “Freaky” – as the new-and-improved activist version of his daughter, now grown-up thanks to surviving the snap/blip. But once the movie stops taking place in a recognizable plane of existence, it loses its relatability. Its legacy in the MCU will be that it marked the first big-screen appearance of Kang, but I’m waiting for the movie that marks the first “good” appearance of Kang.

Grade: C-

“Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania” is rated PG-13 for violence/action and language. Its running time is 125 minutes. Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@nyu.edu.

Pala Casino Spa Resort presents STAIND on March 31

PALA – Pala Casino Spa Resort will present rock band STAIND Friday, March 31, performing live indoors at the Events Center. The show will start at 8 p.m. General admission tickets are $65, and reserved tickets are $125. The show is just one of a lineup of headliner and tribute concerts that will be held at the Events Center and Starlight Theater.

Over the course of their career, STAIND has released seven studio albums and eight Top 10 singles, selling over 15 million albums worldwide. “Break The Cycle,” released in 2001 and RIAA certified

five-times platinum, featured the smash single, “It’s Been Awhile,” one of the most played songs in modern rock radio history, spending 20 weeks at No. 1.

STAIND is composed of lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist Aaron Lewis, lead guitarist Mike Mushok, bassist and backing vocalist Johnny April and drummer Sal Giancarelli. The band was formed in 1995 in their hometown of Springfield, Massachusetts. In 2019, after a five-year hiatus, STAIND reunited for some unforgettable festival performances and a hometown reunion show

at Foxwoods Casino in Mashantucket, Connecticut, where their upcoming album, “Live: It’s Been Awhile” was recorded. For more information, visit http://www. staind.com.

Tickets are on sale now, with no service charge, at the Pala Box Office, http://www.palacasino.com and 877-946-7252. Tickets are also available at http://www.etix.com and 800-514-3849. Must be 21 or older to attend.

Submitted by Pala Casino Spa Resort.

Upcoming happenings at the Temecula Valley Genealogical Society

Cindy Greer

Special to the Valley News

Genealogy and family history. These subjects are no longer the “poor relatives” of history, either American history or international history. Genealogists and family historians have vital records, census reports, land documents and other primary sources online. Digitized items and the internet have opened up a world of resources to researchers, and archives and historical groups are adding data every day.

Genealogical podcasts are available to millions of internet listeners. During the coronavirus pandemic, speakers increased in number, covering myriad essential topics.

No longer does a genealogist need to drive miles to libraries, historical societies or archives to gather information, nor does one need to write letters and wait for answers. Those options are still available, but they are not the only two methods of gaining source documents anymore.

Video conferencing services, such as Zoom, have brought inter-

nationally known genealogists into local work spaces and living rooms. These presentations are equal to or surpass a college professor’s talk: well-researched, well-documented and well-presented with follow-up handouts.

The Temecula Valley Genealogical Society provided many such speakers throughout the pandemic, and the next three scheduled historians are no exception. During the March meeting, the TVGS presenter will be Sara Cochran, who spoke before the membership in 2022. Cochran is a full-time professional genealogist with over 28 years of research experience. Her research has taken her into nearly every state in the USA and Ireland, Italy, Austria, and Britain. Cochran holds a Boston University Genealogical Research Certificate and a bachelor’s degree in library science and is an alumnus of the ProGen Study Group.

The April presentation will be given by Melissa Barker who is a certified archives manager and public historian currently working at the Houston County, Tennessee Archives. Affectionately known as The Archive Lady to the genealogy

community, Barker lectures, teaches and writes about the genealogy research process, researching in archives and records preservation. Besides giving virtual presentations across the United States, she writes a popular blog entitled “A Genealogist in the Archives” and is a well-known published book reviewer. She has been a professional genealogist for the past 17 years.

Bonnie Martland will speak in May. “In Their Own Words” is the title of her talk. She earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism and history at California State University Long Beach and a Secondary Teaching Credential. She has an master ’s degree in history and has taken graduate classes at California State University Fullerton, University of California Irvi ne, University of California Riverside, University of California Berkeley Extension and Chapman University where she additionally earned an Elementary Teaching Credential, certification in the visual arts and an master’s degree in educational administration. Martland currently serves as a Riverside County Historical Commissioner and in a number of other capacities

that testify to my interest in history. She is the president of the board of directors for the Temecula Valley Museum, serves on the board of directors for the Temecula Valley Historical Society and is a docent at the Lincoln Memorial Shrine and Research Center in Redlands. As a member of the Lincoln Forum, Martland attends their symposium in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, every November.

Members of the Temecula Valley communities are invited to learn from the speakers at the monthly meetings with or without a TVGS membership.

On the immediate horizon,

TVGS continues to assist persons interested in their family history with the new library volunteers program at the Ronald H. Roberts Temecula Public Library. Six TVGS members who are local genealogists will be available to meet one-on-one with visitors to share resources and give guidance in research. Watch for more information as to the April commencement date, and how to make an appointment – free of charge. TVGS will celebrate its 25th anniversary in October. For more information, visit http://TVGS.net.

Valley News/Courtesy photo

Valley News/Courtesy photo

Barons Market selected as Menifee’s February Business Spotlight

MENIFEE – Menifee announced Barons Market as the city’s February Business Spotlight, a program that is a part of the Economic Development Department’s B3 Building Better Businesses program.

Ba rons Market is a familyowned, neighborhood grocery store specializing in providing organic, natural, specialty and locally sourced products. To ensure its standard is upheld, Barons Market holds a food panel meeting with staff and managers every Wednesday to select which items will be stocked at all locations. Products are evaluated by various categories such as taste, quality, ingredients and value. The store also offers a fresh salad bar with a large variety of toppings such as an olive bar, a hot soup bar and a hot foods bar.

The company said its high standards influence everything they do, including where they choose to expand their business. According to the local grocery, it admired Menifee’s community-focused mission and its advocacy for small businesses and community success. With those assurances, Barons Market has called Menifee home since 2019.

Barons Market is also passionate

about championing future generations, supporting local schools such as Callie Kirkpatrick Elementary School, Evans Ranch Elementary School and Santa Rosa Academy. Additionally, they have worked with local organizations including Lake Menifee Women’s Club, Menifee Valley Little League, Menifee Valley Community Cupboard, Animal Town Sanctuary and Mrs. B’s Table.

“Barons Market has become an essential part of the Menifee community and has set itself apart by providing quality and healthy products while also supporting our local schools and nonprofits,” District 3 Councilmember Lesa Sobek said. “Thank you, Barons Market, for always going above the call of business.”

For more information, visit http://baronsmarket.com. To view their Business Spotlight video, visit https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=AWew676sXGA.

The Menifee Business Spotlight is a free business recognition program to create awareness for the variety of local businesses and their contributions to the Menifee community. Chosen applicants, who are nominated by the community, are honored during a special

Cheri Zamora, fourth from right, store manager of Barons Market Menifee, and marketing manager Nancy Kennedy, third from right, display the award for the city’s February Business Spotlight with Menifee City Council members and Gina Gonzalez, right, director of economic development for Menifee.

Valley News/Courtesy photo presentation at a city council meeting and receive a free 30-second professional video developed by the Economic Development Department showcased on the city’s b usiness website, http://www. menifeebusiness.com.

The Menifee Business Spotlight is part of the Economic Development Department’s B3 Building

Better Businesses program, which aims to showcase local businesses that go above and beyond the call of business, foster pride in Menifee’s thriving business community and promote diversity in Menifee’s local economy.

Nominations are encouraged to recognize businesses in Menifee that contribute to the betterment

Police department offers grant to Riverside businesses

Cit y News Service

Special to Valley News

The Riverside Police Department announced they are offering funding to local businesses to assist with the costs involved with improving safety and security Riverside city businesses are eligible to apply and are subject to review and approval by the Riverside Police Department.

“The Safety & Security Program offers grant funding for security

cameras, security lighting, fencing and other security related items,” the police department announced.

Each awarded grant will be up to $10,000 funded through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.

Eligible upgrades to businesses included improved or new lighting to parking lots, adjacent alleyways and/or areas immediately around business; video camera systems that monitor activity inside the business or directly surrounding the business; landscaping; fencing

and any other devices that improve the safety and security of the business that have been approved after a Crime Prevention Through Environment Design inspection conducted by Riverside Police Department personnel.

“CPTED is a multi-disciplinary approach to crime prevention through building safety, architectural design and the management of build and natural environment,” according to the police department.

A member of the police depart-

of the Menifee community. Visit http://www.cityofmenifee.us/BusinessSpotlight to apply.

For more information on the Business Spotlight program, or other resources available to Menifee businesses, contact the Economic Development Department at econdev@cityofmenifee.us Submitted by city of Menifee.

Grant funding can be used for security cameras, security lighting, fencing and other security related items.

ment who is qualified to conduct CPTED inspections will meet with the business owner to evaluate safety and security improvement in accordance with best CPTED practices.

“We are excited to announce this opportunity for our local businesses to enhance their security measures that not only better protect their property, but help reduce crime in their neighborhood,”

Riverside Police Chief Larry Gonzalez said.

To apply, the business must meet general qualifications that include being a for-profit business within Riverside city limits (home-based businesses are eligible, though owner residency is not required), having proof of a valid city of

Riverside business license and be in good standing with the city (no liens or judgments unless demonstrated to be a direct COVID-19 impact), being a small or microenterprise with no more than 50 employees, having no more than $2.5 million in annual revenue and being registered with the California Secretary of State and having valid County Health Department licenses, if required based on business type.

City employees and elected and appointed officials are not eligible to participate in this program. Visit www.RiversideCA.gov/RPD/ ARPA-Grant-Application for more information and to access the grant application.

Cell: (760) 644-7541 MBM@McDonaldWestern.com

Valley News/Riverside Police Dept. photo

Rose Care FUNdamentals for March

Frank Brines, ARS Master Rosarian

Special to the Valley News

Boy, has it been crazy weather?

Depending on your location – or more specifically, that of your garden – you may have experienced frost damage to your roses and tender young plants recently. Keep an eye on your roses: If you see that frost has actually killed new growth that came out after pruning, you may need to re-prune, making your cuts just above the next outward-facing bud down the cane. But don’t be too hasty – wait until the threat of frost damage has likely passed.

The thing is, even gardens in the same general vicinity may have different effects due to their prevailing micro-climates. The next few days of March have slightly below-normal nighttime temperatures, with predicted daytime temperatures near average. Overall, temperatures predicted for March are near average and rain is likely. Roses enjoy this weather – it encourages them to jump into life.

If your roses experienced fungal diseases last year and you haven’t yet done so, you might think of applying a copper dormant spray soon – but only if you can be fairly certain it won’t rain for 24 hours. You can mix Horticultural Oil with the dormant spray for better adherence – but read the label to make sure you can mix different sprays. These will reduce the likelihood of early fungal and pest issues. Oh, and as a note of caution: Be prepared for chilli thrips as temperatures warm up.

St eps to take when ready to spray: First, make sure the garden is free of left-over debris and dispose of it in the green garden waste bin – do not compost rose debris in your yard. Backyard composting doesn’t get hot enough to kill any pathogens. Second, if you didn’t do it already for pruning, remove all old leaves that may be left on the bush. This cleanliness will help keep down disease. Third, read the spray label completely to

ings, which are available at garden stores and nurseries.

I highly recommend organic type fertilizers versus inorganic or “chemical” ones. Organics foster better soil development, a richer, livelier, more viable community of soil organisms that break the elements into easily absorbed form and release them slowly. They will “build” soil structure into a healthy component and when used regularly will develop a soil rich in reserve energy, allowing you to use less product with the same results.

Frost can kill new growth so you may need to re-prune.

systems are the most efficient, and they avoid problems created by above-ground sprayers and sprinklers, which waste water and can foster molds such as mildew and rust. If possible, avoid any over-spray or misting applied elsewhere in your garden that may hit your roses; but if you use overhead watering systems, avoid doing so when there is any wind to avoid moisture evaporating or collecting on leaves which could result in sunburn or add to conditions favorable for fungal diseases. For best results and efficiency, be sure to schedule irrigation so it is complete before the day gets hot – preferably by mid-morning, that is, 8- 9 a.m. Avoiding afternoon or evening watering prevents excess ground moisture into night time.

Too wet soil can lead to unhappy roots and/or fungal diseases.

Roses do love food and water for the best blooms. Rule of thumb: When new growth is 2-3 inches long it is time to begin a fertilizing program. I suggest an initial feeding be higher in nitrogen (N) to encourage new stem and leaf growth. In about two weeks, apply fertilizer that is higher in phosphate (P) and potassium (K) to give roots a boost at the start of the season. New information suggests that continued use of fertilizer higher in P and K will foster greater root development and lead to better growth, disease resistance and healthier plants. Look for fertilizers rated as 8-10-8 that include micro elements for greater results. Also, you can apply worm cast-

Stock photo ensure the proper strength of the mixture for “growing season instructions” as the new growth has begun. Fourth, saturate all canes and the soil surface of the entire bed. Fifth, maintain a minimum of 2 inches to 4 inches of organic composted mulch over the entire garden surface to insulate the upper 8 inches to 12 inches of the soil zone where most rose roots feed and to reduce evaporation and conserve water, while still providing sufficient moisture. It will also supply nutrients to build the soil for your roses over the season. Take time now to inspect and make any necessary repairs to your irrigation system while there is little to no new foliage. Then you’ll be prepared to begin a regular irrigation schedule. Drip

If you have completed your pruning it is likely all your pruning tools need sharpening. Sharp pruners make for clean cuts and the prevention of diseases or otherwise damaged weak canes. The best files to use are thin flat types with diamond grit material. This type allows easier sharpening for the tight spaces between the cutting blade and bar. Attempt to follow the current/original bevel/ angle of the sharp blade. Felco said that the angle for their pruners is 23 degrees. Keeping pruners clean can be done using 70% isopropyl alcohol, WD-40 soak or Lysol sheets. If heavy plant “juice” is a problem a small brass bristle brush will help remove it. Lubricate the mechanism with a light oil like 3-in-One.

There will be an American Rose Society Pacific Southwest District Rose Show and Convention Saturday and Sunday, April 22-23, in San Diego. As in past years it will be at the Ronald Reagan Center, 195 E. Douglas Avenue, in El Cajon. Make plans to attend.

Be sure to visit the Rose Haven Heritage Garden, 30500 Jedediah Smith Road, in Temecula. The 3.4-acre rose garden is owned and maintained by the Temecula Valley Rose Society, a nonprofit organization supported with donations. Look for the donation box when you visit. Also, visit http://www. TemeculaValleyRoseSociety.org regularly for a schedule of events.

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Valley News/Adobe

Lake Elsinore chamber honors area students in February

Diane A. Rhodes Special to Valley News

The Lake Elsinore Valley Chamber of Commerce Student of the Month program, celebrating its 27th season of honoring students who make a difference, held its most recent recognition Tuesday, Feb. 7, at the Lakeside High School Lancer Round Table Cafe. Lunch was prepared and served by members of the Lakeside Culinary Academy.

Program founder Sally Myers welcomed everyone to the local high school recognition program which acknowledges and honors college or trade school bound seniors for their character, their love of learning and commitment to academics in addition to participation in athletics, school activities and community service. It also commends those who have persevered through challenging life circumstances, all in a setting that honors God, country, family, community and free enterprise.

Large bags filled with gifts, certificates of recognition and much more donated by the program’s sponsors were given to the award recipients. Each student received a medallion and was invited to the podium to share their personal story, past challenges and future goals with a room full of supporters that included principals, teachers, peers and family members, as well as community and school district dignitaries.

February’s students of the month are Elsinore High School’s Katelyn Dwelley and Trevor Masters, Kevin McCarthy Academy’s Ashley Leyva, Lakeside High School’s Kiana Ambriz and James Sera and Temescal Canyon High School’s Cara Cheng and Oliver Niroumand.

Elsinore High School

Katelyn Dwelley was chosen to represent Elsinore High School this month. She is captain of the swim and water polo teams and she coaches and mentors youth water polo at Elsinore Aquatics.

“This past summer, I was able to have the opportunity to take our first 12U team to the Junior Olympics, one of the biggest water polo tournaments in the United States,” Dwelley said. “In preparation, I spent countless weekends and days after school to help prepare these kids for this tournament.”

They placed 13 among teams from throughout the nation. Her teacher Rachel Carroll said Dwelley leads by example and serves as a beacon of hope for young women in the community and empowers everyone around her. She plans to attend the University of Redlands and study elementary education.

Principal Robbin Hamilton said watching Trevor Masters on the co-ed cheer team takes her breath away. She described him as a strong gymnast, athlete and scholar.

“The greatest life lesson I’ve learned through my teenage years is that my tendency to dream big will only help me in the long run,” Masters said. “I will always strive for the best version of myself, however difficult that may be to attain.”

He plans to study computer science and technology at college. He has applied to Harvard and many other colleges and universities. His English teacher, Dana Coogan, said Trevor is “enthusiastic about life and his future. He fills up the room wherever he goes with positivity and light.”

Keith McCarthy Academy

Ashley Leyva was recognized in February for being the embodiment of what a KMA independent study student should be and bringing great energy to the school. Counselor Larissa Jefferson said she is a great artist who started an art club at the school. She plans to go into the field of mycology, the study of fungal biology. Leyva said she learned a valuable lesson at KMA when she fell behind in her junior year. She learned the importance of responsibility, selfcontrol and most importantly, the persistence and determination it takes to get back up after failing.

“I learned to not be ashamed of past mistakes,” Leyva said.

Lakeside High School

Kiana Ambriz was one of two exceptional Lakeside High School Lancers that principal Henry Romero cited for being involved with many programs on campus. She is a member of AVID and takes Advanced Placement and dual-enrollment courses through Mt. San Jacinto College. She was chosen as a Girls State representative and is involved with book club and robotics on campus. Ambriz is in the top 10 of her graduating class and is on the path to study industrial and organizational psychology at college. Her teachers

describe her as being “highly accountable to herself and others.” Ambriz credits her friends and family with helping her through so much.

“I’m proud of my parents who work hard every day so that I can live a life where I’m content and satisfied,” she said. “My parents have taught me the most important thing in my life is to find a future where I’m happy. I need to find a job where I’m happy and can have stability, whether it’s financial or emotional.”

James Sera is involved in AVID, AP, MSJC dual-enrollment courses and varsity volleyball. He wants to be a laboratory scientist. Sera grew up in The Philippines but moved to America to live with his mother when he was a high school freshman. Sera said he grew up believing there was only right and wrong, with no gray areas but then he learned to believe in himself and not doubt himself.

“As I gained confidence in myself, I found that I am capable of doing things I did not know I was capable of doing,” Sera said. “As an immigrant with no knowledge of where I was headed, I felt anxious and fearful. Not knowing what my future held, I was petrified.”

His AVID teacher, Michelle Hendricks, said he entered Lakeside as an English Language Development student but was able to test out of the program the following year. She said James challenged himself with dualenrollment college courses along with Honors Chemistry.

“As a senior, he is in Advanced

Placement English Literature, which is a testament to this young man’s efforts,” Hendricks said, adding that Sera has already been accepted to several California State universities.

Temescal Canyon High School

Cara Cheng was introduced by Temescal Canyon High principal Joshua Hill as being captain of the girls’ wrestling team who are recent Ivy League champions. She was noted as being part of the first graduating class of the Engineering Academy. She is a member of National Honor Society, ASB, mountain bike team and the Society of Women Engineers and Scientists. She wants to continue competing in wrestling at the college level while studying biomedical engineering or cyber operations. She recently was nominated by Rep. Ken Calvert of California’s 41st District for admission to the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis. Cheng gives back to her community by helping out with a youth wrestling program and being a pen pal to fourth grade girls, encouraging them to get involved in STEM fields. Registrar Christina Dykstra said Cheng is someone who cares more about her wrestling teammates than herself. Her mother said one of the biggest challenges Cheng had to overcome was being born as a premature twin at only 4.5 pounds. She had to wear braces on her legs as an infant and worked hard to become a state champion mountain biker and wrestler.

Oliver Niroumand has made an impact at the school by being part of the International Bac -

calaureate program as well as a member of the concert and jazz band and president of the chess and checkers club. He participates in combat sports such as boxing and taekwondo and wants to study computer science at college with hopes to start his own business in the technology field where he can assist others who struggle to remain current in this rapidly expanding area. After being part of many programs and activities at school, Oliver said the two that will leave an impact on him are IB and band.

“IB, being a very rigorous program, has taught me a lot about hard work and time management and with proper time management came a good work ethic,” he said. “I no longer wanted to just put in enough effort to get the job done; I wanted to work to the best of my ability in everything I did academically.”

Niroumand said combat sports have been part of his life since he was nine years old and he spent many years growing his passion and surrounding himself with very talented people that he could learn from.

Closing remarks Myers closed the event with some remarks for all the recipients.

“I know I leave this event every month just full of great admiration, great joy and great hope in our future because of what you students are gifted with and passionate about,” Myers said.

For more information on the program, contact Kim Joseph Cousins at 951-245-8848.

Two local students earned Dean’s List honors for Emerson College’s fall 2022 semester. The requirement to make the Dean’s List is a grade point average of 3.7 or higher for that semester.

Dean’s list honoree Scott Herrera of Temecula is majoring in Comedic Arts and is a member of the Class of 2024.

Dean’s list honoree Lauren Smith of Murrieta is majoring in Writing, Lit & Pub: Publishing and is a member of the Class of 2025.

Emerson College educates individuals who will solve problems and change the world through

engaged leadership in communication and the arts, a mission informed by liberal learning.

About Emerson College

Based in Boston, Massachusetts, opposite the historic Boston Common and in the heart of the city’s Theatre District. The College has approximately 4,161 undergraduates and 554 graduate students from across the United States and nearly 70 countries. Supported by state-of-the-art facilities and a renowned faculty, students participate in more than 90 student organizations and performance groups. Emerson is known for its

experiential learning programs at Emerson Los Angeles, located in Hollywood, and at its 14th-century castle, in the Netherlands. Additionally, there are opportunities to study in Washington DC, London, China, the Czech Republic, Spain, Austria, Greece, France, Ireland, Mexico, Cuba, England and South Africa. The College has an active network of 51,000+ alumni who hold leadership positions in communication and the arts. For more information, visit www.emerson.edu.

Tony Ault Staff Writer

Local science teachers will soon have an opportunity to learn about the nature education efforts being made by the Santa Rosa Plateau Nature Education Foundation at a Nature Education Resource Forum at Cedar Dove Ranch in La Cresta, Murrieta on April 22.

The theme of this year’s forum is “Caring for Our Earth by Beeing A Community Scientist.” It is designed for all those engaged in environmental, nature and science education. It is sponsored by Winchester & Associates Insurance Services.

Special guest speaker will be Krystle Hickman, who will speak about how to engage in the study of bees that are now becoming more scarce and affecting our environment. Also appearing will be a TedX speaker, a conservation photographer and a community scientist.

Teachers and educators will learn how to help their students become “community scientists” and observe what’s happening to the bees in their own backyard, and why certain plants and animals on the nearby Santa Rosa Plateau are important to be studied.

The program will organize conversation circles with colleagues in order to connect and share resources along with other nature educators.

The forum will be hosted at the exclusive Cedar Dove Ranch in the La Cresta community on the Santa Rosa Plateau. The registration fee is $25 and includes lunch and resource materials. Reservations are required and available at https:// NatureEduForum.eventbrite.com

Once confirmed, attendants will be provided with an event schedule. No walk-ins will be permitted on the day of the event.

Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com.

Recipients of the Lake Elsinore Valley Chamber of Commerce Student of the Month award for January are, standing from left, Oliver Niroumand, Trevor Masters and James Sera and seated from left, Cara Cheng, Katelyn Dwelley, Ashley Leyva and Kiana Ambriz. Valley News/John P. Hess photo

Murrieta Valley chamber honors students in January

She said she plans to pursue a career in public health. Pozanski explained that the Bronco Bleacher Creatures started as a mall club for spirited students and has grown into one of the most well-known student sections in the area.

“When you walk through the gates of BBC, you become something great,” Pozanski said. “When I joined the BBC leadership class of almost 50 students, I learned just how much time and effort goes into maintaining school spirit on campus. I learned that it takes a full week to prepare for a 2-1/2 hour football game, that mascot costumes are unbearably hot and that cleaning the bleachers after thousands of teenagers have plowed through is no easy task. But I loved the feeling like I was part of something bigger than myself, that I could help continue traditions 20 years in the making and leave a legacy for those that come after me. I stepped into the role of president because I knew I wanted to grow the program and support as many students as possible.”

Closing remarks

As the breakfast came to an end, Myers said, “You have to be given permission to be a leader and the only way you’re given permission is when people know you care.”

She applauded all the students who have stepped into leadership roles at their schools and in their communities.

The Murrieta/Wildomar Chamber of Commerce Student of the Month program held its most recent recognition breakfast Thursday, Jan. 19, at the Murrieta Sizzler restaurant, 40489 Murrieta Hot Springs Road. Mary Walters, assistant superintendent of the Murrieta Valley Unified School District, served as master of ceremonies and introduced Sally Myers, founder of the first of four area Student of the Month programs more than 30 years ago.

“All your stories are so different, which makes this program unique and inspiring because we can come for 31 years and never hear the same story, but every one is truly special and very motivational,” Myers said.

She explained the nonprofit’s purpose is to celebrate and honor outstanding students who make a significant difference in their school and community. Its mission is to provide a local high school recognition program which will acknowledge college and trade school bound seniors for their character, their love of learning and their commitment to academics in addition to their participation in athletics, school activities, community service or the ability to overcome difficult life circumstances in a setting that honors God, country, family, community and free enterprise.

Backpacks filled with gifts, certificates of recognition and more were donated by the program’s sponsors to the award recipients. Each student was invited to the podium to share their personal story, past challenges and future goals with a room full of supporters that included principals, teachers, peers and family members, as well as community and school district dignitaries.

January’s students of the month were Murrieta Canyon Academy’s Reina Diaz, Murrieta Mesa High School’s Kaitlyn Carrillo, Murrieta Valley High’s Noah Benavides, Springs Charter School’s Bryanna Centeno Rios and Vista Murrieta High School’s Brooke Poznanski.

Reina Diaz

Murrieta Canyon Academy

Principal Matt Bean explained that although Diaz experienced a rather chaotic and unstable childhood, she is an amazing young woman who has definitely found her stride while attending Murrieta Canyon Academy.

“After a series of unfortunate events, including the tragic passing of her mom in eighth grade and then the onset of this crazy worldwide pandemic we all lived through, Reina struggled a little bit in her transition to high school,” Bean said.

Enrolling at Murrieta Canyon gave Diaz the opportunity to make up two years of high school credits in one year with all As and Bs, and Bean said she quickly became a role model for her classmates.

Diaz said her older sister, who is her legal guardian, inspires her every day and her teacher Nicholetta Perez is her favorite person on campus.

“From the time I started at MCA in August of 2021, no one has made me feel more seen than she has,” Diaz said. “With these two by my side, I’ve learned I am so much more than my struggles and insecurities. I now have the confidence that I can and will do amazing things if I stay true to myself.”

She said she would to become an English teacher or professor and loves writing.

“I think it’s ironic her name is Reina, which in Spanish means queen, because that’s exactly what she is,” Perez said.

Turning to Reina, Perez said, “Whenever you are having a really bad day, just remember to adjust your crown, OK?”

Her sister said that when Diaz was in preschool she was named Student of the Month and no one was there to see her accept her award or take pictures with her.

“So I have tailored my life to be next to her and have been able to watch her soar past all the struggles,” she said.

Kaitlyn Carrillo

Murrieta Mesa High School chose Carrillo to be honored in January. Principal Scott Richards said she currently sits in the top five of her senior class with a 4.46 GPA and takes a full load of Advanced Placement and dual enrollment college courses.

“She challenges herself with courses such as Environmental Engineering 4 and Cybersecurity,” Richards said.

She is the oldest of four children and her mother is a chemistry teacher at Vista Murrieta High School and her father is a counselor at Murrieta Mesa. Carrillo is a member of the National Honor Society and the Principal’s Advisory group. She is a four-year varsity golf team member, a brown belt in karate and volunteers at her church. She has logged more than 390 community service hours and has been part of Girl Scouts for the past eight years. She earned her Gold Award and went on to earn an Eagle Scout award through the Boy Scouts of America. Carrillo plans to pursue degrees in computer science and math to eventually work in the film or animation industry as a software developer or an editor working for a streaming media company.

Noah Benavides

Before introducing Benavides, Murrieta Valley Principal Ryan Tukua told the students and their families that “you are the reason we have a strong community.”

Benavides carries a 4.3 GPA and has been a baseball program member four years and in the football program for three. He has been involved with the school’s leadership program and is a student advocate for Project 99, a nonprofit dedicated to suicide prevention and awareness.

“He carries himself with pride, has high expectations for himself and truly does things the right way, with integrity, respect, teamwork and excellence,” Tukua said.

Benavides said as a lifelong resident of Murrieta he is grateful

“to have grown up in a Christian household with a dad

in the U.S. Marine Corps and a mom who is the strongest woman I know.”

He said he found his passion and career goal at a young age.

“My goal since seventh grade has been to go to the Keck School of Medicine at USC and become a primary care physician,” he said.

He plans to play collegiate baseball while earning a degree in kinesiology in a pre-med program. He credits his freshman football coach, David Munn, with helping him reap the benefits of camaraderie, competition and family that football provides.

“This man gave me my first family at Murrieta Valley and I will be forever grateful,” Benavides said. “Coach Munn is living proof that giving someone a chance can go a very long way.”

He said he is grateful that when he graduates he will look back at his four years of high school and say he had a positive impact on the people of this community.

“I know in 18 years, I don’t have much life experience but I do want to leave you with something,” Benavides said. “Metaphorically, there is a reason your windshield is bigger than your rear view (window). If we get too caught up in what is behind, we get distracted from what is ahead. The dream we see through the windshield is bigger and of more importance than the past we see in the rear view. We have to remember where we came from but above all else, we have to focus on where we’re going.”

Bryanna Centeno Rios

Springs Charter School Principal Jackie Dee said Centeno Rios transferred to the school’s online learning component right before COVID-19 and has been very selfmotivated with independent study. She excels at school but has also been a full-time nanny for three children, ages 4, 7 and 10 since she was a freshman. Her passion is children, and her goal is to get her bachelor’s degree in nursing to become a nurse practitioner. Born in Puerto Rico, Centeno Rios moved to California when she was three years old. She said she has always had an interest in the medical field and has enjoyed helping her grandmother in recent years. She has been taking advantage of dual enrollment courses at MiraCosta Community College.

“I would love to stay here but maybe spend two to three years in Puerto Rico due to the lack of (good) healthcare there,” Centeno Rios said, adding that being bilingual will help her in that endeavor.

Brooke Poznanski

Pozanski was chosen to represent Vista Murrieta High School and Principal Celeste Scallion said she felt the theme for this month’s SOM breakfast has been hope and possibility. She said Pozanski is highly engaged as she takes on new challenges with enthusiasm. She epitomizes scholarship and service through her involvement in the Principal’s Advisory program, NHS, cheer and her involvement with the Bronco Bleacher Creatures.

“Brooke has served as a strong leader with a clear vision,” Scallion said. “Brooke’s teachers

describe her as a student who makes teaching fun, makes positive contributions to the campus culture and climate and never has a disparaging remark about anyone.”

For more information on the program, contact Student of the Month Chair LouEllen Ficke at 951-415-2250 or louellenficke@ gmail.com

Diane A. Rhodes

Special to Valley News

Photo: Recipients of the Murrieta/Wildomar Chamber of Commerce Student of the Month award for January are, from left, Noah Benavides, Reina Diaz, Bryanna Centeno Rios, Kaitlyn Carrillo and Brooke Poznanski.

Valley News/KC Photography photo

Patrinely Group and Dune Real Estate Partners break ground on speculative industrial project in Menifee

HOUSTON, Texas – Patrinely Group, in partnership with affiliates of Dune Real Estate Partners, announced the groundbreaking of a 544,115-square-foot speculative industrial project consisting of three Class A buildings located near Interstate 215 and Scott Road in Menifee.

“We are pleased to announce this significant milestone,” Matt Chamberlain, Patrinely Group’s executive vice president responsible for the western U.S. said. “This project represents the only remaining industrial development site in Menifee’s Southern Gateway that has been approved for pure industrial use, making it a highly sought-after development.”

Patrinely Group will market the project as Gateway at Menifee.

Spanning 36.44 acres, the three rear-load buildings will feature 32- to 36-foot clear heights, 107 total dock-high doors and 130to 190-foot truck court depths. These features cater to industrial and logistics tenants that require access to regular shipments and arterial transportation options. The project represents the second and final phase of the industrial park, consisting of Buildings 3, 4 and 5 – 229,934 square fe et, 220,606 square feet and

93,575-square-feet, respectively. With a strategic location within southern Riverside County and the broader Inland Empire, these best-in-class buildings provide highly visible freeway frontage and immediate access to I-215 within close proximity to the I215/I-15 interchange.

“We are offering today’s modern industrial users a premier location to service all of Southern California, including the Inland Empire, Temecula Valley, Greater Los Angeles metro, Orange County and North San Diego County,” Dennis Tarro, executive vice president/principal of Patrinely Group, said. “It’s truly a one-of-a-kind opportunity for prospective tenants.”

“We believe strongly in the fundamentals of the Southern California industrial market and are pleased to be able to add Gateway at Menifee to Dune’s portfolio. We are also excited to partner once again with Patrinely Group, a best-in-class firm with a strong track record of developing distinguished Class A buildings, to jointly deliver this project, which will be one of the last of its kind in this prime location”

Aaron Greeno, partner and head of West Coast for Dune, said.

“We look forward to working with the talented development

The rendering of Gateway at Menifee shows a 544,115-square-foot speculative industrial project consisting of three Class A buildings located near Interstate 215 and Scott Road in Menifee.

team that has been assembled for the execution of this project to bring much-needed industrial real estate capacity to Southern California.”

The project will be developed

by Patrinely Group and constructed by KPRS. KBC Advisors, led by Ryan Bos and Colin MacMillan, and Lee Associates, led by Scott Stewart and Gordon Mize, will handle the leasing under the

CLASSIFIEDS

Attention Horse Lovers

Pride of Ownership

We are selling a large horse ranch in west Hemet. This has everything you need to operate a horse business, 5 acres 36 stalls in covered barn. Large house and apartment. Make an offer! Must be sold today!

Offered at $1,200,000

Not Age Restricted

2 bedroom, 2 bath completely remodeled, new

Family Home

Offered at $375,000

direction of Phillip Moore and Dennis Tarro of Patrinely Group. Submitted by Patrinely Group.

Eagles win first-ever CIF-SS girls’ basketball championship, defeat Chino 91-29

Historic season not over yet

Rancho

ONTARIO – Saturday marked two CIF-SS girls basketball championship game appearances in the past five years for the Rancho Christian girls’ basketball team. However, unlike in the COVID spring season of 2021, where the Eagles fell on the road at Newport Harbor, this time around brought about a different feeling for Rancho Christian.

Behind a 20-0 first quarter run, covering just over four and a half minutes, the Eagles raced out to a 58-16 lead at halftime and prevailed by a final score of 91-29 in the CIF-SS Division 3A title game at Ontario’s Colony High School. Julia Wilson hit a pair of three pointers in the run which culminated on a layup by Jada Tiggett created by her own steal.

“We knew it would be a tough road to climb, especially after losing Lyndsey (Valverde) to a knee injury yesterday, but I’m so proud of how far these girls have come this year,” Chino coach

Sandra Van Embricqs

“I don’t leave here sad that we lost but proud that we got this far.”

Kaitlyn Carrillo’s layup broke the shutout for Chino (24-6) and Kimberly Day converted a threepoint play to make it 27-7 Rancho Christian after a quarter.

“Nobody thought we’d get here except the girls in that locker room and our coaches,” Day remarked.

“We got here with heart and we played with heart today until that final horn. This is something I will never forget.”

“We’ve been locked in all playoffs and were ready to go today,” Eagles coach Marlon Wells said. “These girls have been getting after it all year and I can’t be prouder of them. A lot of people don’t know too much about our school outside the Mobley brothers, so we’re putting the program on the map. We’re struggling with numbers right now

Rancho Christian boys’ defeat La Mirada in CIF-SS Division 2A championship game

Eagles bring home title despite big game from Gomez

Derryl Trujillo Sports Writer

ONTARIO – Earlier this month, when the Rancho Christian boys’ basketball team found out they had fallen short of their goal of earning a CIF-SS Open Division bid, Eagles coach Ray Barefield asked his team what the next great thing they could do was. The answer was to bring home a CIF-SS Division 2A title. So, their focus was set on winning the program’s second championship in seven years.

At Colony High School, this past Saturday afternoon, the Eagles had to survive 32 points from La Mirada sophomore guard Julian Gomez and did just that, prevailing

63-55 over a Matadores team that just would not go away.

Down 5-4 at the midway point of the first quarter, Rancho Christian went on a 9-0 run to take a 13-5 lead. Rodney Brown’s layup and a three-pointer from Bailey Chambers finished the run. Gomez’ layup with under a minute left closed La Mirada’s deficit to five at 16-11.

“Julian’s been doing it all year for us and played a really good game tonight,” Matadores coach Randy Oronoz said. “We’re a third quarter team and have been all year but we had a number of mental lapses that you just can’t afford to have against a team of that caliber. Credit to Rancho Christian for

just enough plays to get the job done.”

A Gomez three-pointer tied the game at 19 with just over five minutes to go before the half. From there, the Eagles outscored La Mirada 19-8 to take their largest lead at 38-27 after two quarters. Brown connected on a pair of three-pointers and a Kevin Patton Jr. layup at the buzzer closed the run.

“Even though he (Gomez) had 32 points, there was a concerted effort to limit his touches. He’s a really good player who found a way to get his scoring and yet keep his guys involved,” Eagles coach

see EAGLES, page C-2 see RANCHO, page C-3

Christian players celebrate winning the CIF Southern Section Division 3A girls’ basketball championship over Chino Saturday, Feb. 25, at Colony High School.

Rancho Christian is the CIF Southern Section Division 3A girls’ basketball champion.

Aaliyah Stanton scores 30 points to lead Rancho Christian to a 91-29 victory and the CIF Southern Section Division 3A girls’ basketball championship over Chino Saturday, Feb. 25.

Valley News/David Canales photo

Valley News/David Canales photo

Valley News/David Canales photo

said.

Rancho Christian’s Martin Gumwel hoists their CIF Southern Section Division 2A championship plaque in celebration after the Eagles defeated La Mirada Saturday, Feb. 25, at Colony High School.

Rancho Christian players celebrate winning the CIF Southern Section Division 2A boys’ basketball championship over La Mirada Saturday, Feb. 25, at Colony High School.

Rancho Christian are the CIF Southern Section Division 2A boys’ basketball champions. Valley News/David Canales photos making

All-CIF-SS 2023 Traditional Competitive Cheer athletes recognized

Wrestlers take the mat at the CIF wrestling championships

JP Raineri Sports Editor

BAKERSFIELD – The 2023 CIF State boys wrestling championships started last Thursday afternoon at Mechanics Bank Arena in Bakersfield, and a handful of local male and female wrestlers advanced to the quarterfinals.

JP Raineri Sports Editor

The Southern Section offices of the California Interscholastic Federation recently announced the names for the top student athletes that were recognized as All-CIF for the sport of Traditional Competitive Cheer. These lists are presented by the LA84 Foundation, selected by the Traditional Competitive Cheer Coaches Association.

On top of the list of local selections, the school with the most local standouts from this past season came from Temescal Canyon High School, who also housed the Coach of the Year, Autumn Crawford. Tahquitz and Elsinore also had multiple players honored with two apiece. Murrieta Valley, Paloma Valley and Liberty were the other local schools with players honored.

Division 1

and hopefully this will help in that regard.”

Leaving no doubt as to the outcome, Rancho Christian used a 17-5 second quarter run to further extend the lead to 44-12. Shaylynn De Yager’s three pointer from the top of the key at the halftime buzzer capped off a 58-point half.

“To play at the pace we play at requires a lot of conditioning in practice,” Aaliyah Stanton, who led the Eagles with 30 points, said. “It definitely felt good to grab that early lead, but we knew we couldn’t take the pedal off the metal until the clock said zero.”

Rancho Christian and Chino will both find out their CIF-State SoCal regional tournament pairings Sunday, Feb. 26, and will begin play on the evening of Tuesday, Feb. 28. Visit www.ciftstate.org for more information.

Rancho Christian scoring:

A. Stanton - 30, J. Tiggett - 16, J. Wilson - 14, S. De Yeager - 12

Three-pointers: Wilson - 3, De Yeager - 2, Stanton - 1

Next up: No. 4 seeded Rancho Christian will host Crenshaw (No. 13 seed) in the opening round of the CIF State SoCal Division 1 regional tournament Tuesday, Feb. 28, at 5 p.m.

Derryl Trujillo can be reached via email at socaltrekkie@gmail. com

Xavier Gonzales (12) - Tahquitz

Ashlyn Fellows (12) - Tahquitz

Dominic Mulato (12) - Murrieta

Valley

Division 2

Coach of the Year - Autumn Crawford, Temescal Canyon

Mya Jones - Paloma Valley

Kailani Rjuehahh - Temescal

Canyon

Mila Crawford - Temescal

Canyon

Madison Lenart - Temescal

Canyon

Division 3

Kaley Pelton (12) - Elsinore

Julia Zitzke (12) - Elsinore

Elizabeth DeVore (11) - Liberty

Division 4 No local competitors recognized

A complete list of athletes selected from the entire Southern Section can be found online at www.cifss.org.

JP Raineri can be reached by email at sports@reedermedia. com

Lakeside had two of its male wrestlers reach the quarterfinals of the 126-pound weight class, Ryan Lobato and Justin Wells. Lobato advanced after he pulled out a 3-0 decision in a pigtail match, and then registered a pin and major decision in the ensuing rounds. Wells also had to pigtail to start off his day. He opened with an 8-0 major decision, followed by a 6-2 decision. He then advanced to the quarterfinals with a 1-0 decision over Atri Feizi of Concord De La Salle. Wells scored the point with an escape early in the second period.

The 2023 CIF State girls wrestling championships also started last Thursday morning at Mechanics Bank Arena, and a few of the top female wrestlers from the area advanced to the quarterfinals and remain in contention for state championships.

Liberty freshman Anna Bozanic was the top story of the day as she scored the biggest victory in her weight class. Bozanic pinned top-seeded Gemma Templeman of Rocklin in the opening minute of a second-round match in the 235-pound bracket. She also won her opening match via pinfall. The local area also has two quarter finalists in the 101-pound bracket. Hamilton’s Olivia Lopez recorded first-period pins in each of her first two matches Thursday to advance to the quarterfinals. Lakeside’s Jillian Wells pinned her first opponent and then moved on to the quarterfinals with a 9-6 decision

in the second round.

Other female wrestlers include:

Paloma Valley’s Karissa

Turnwall pinned two opponents in the opening minute to reach the 111-pound quarterfinals. Turnwall is the No. 2 seed in the 111-pound division.

Orange Vista’s Addison Ellis pinned her first opponent in the 131-pound bracket and pulled out a 13-8 decision in the second round to advance to the quarterfinals.

Temescal Canyon’s Cara Cheng

advanced to the 137-pound quarterfinal with a victory by pinfall in the first round and a 4-1 decision in the second round. Quarterfinal matches took place the following day and will be updated in next week’s issue. All postseason brackets and updates can be found by going to the top of the CIF Southern Section website at www.cifss.org. Please email sports@reedermedia.com if there are any changes in times, dates and/or sites.

The CIF Southern Section offices recently announced the names for the top student athletes that made All-CIF for the sport of Traditional Competitive Cheer, which includes a few standouts from Temescal Canyon and their coach. Valley News/Courtesy photo

Julia Wilson, pictured here hitting a three-point shot, had 14 points in Rancho Christian’s 91-29 win over Chino Saturday, Feb. 25, at Colony High School.

Jada Tiggett dropped 16 points on Chino in the CIF Southern Section Division 3A girls’ basketball championship Saturday, Feb. 25, at Colony High School.

Tia Barefield takes a wide open 3-point shot against Chino in the CIF Southern Section Division 3A girls’ basketball championship Saturday, Feb. 25, at Colony High School. Valley News/Time Stood Still Photography

Aaliyah Stanton scores drives against Chino in the CIF Southern Section Division 3A championship game Saturday, Feb. 25. Valley News/Time Stood Still Photography

Valley News/David Canales photo Valley News/David Canales photo

EAGLES from page C-1

Anna Bozanic, a freshman wrestler from Liberty, pinned top-seeded Gemma Templeman of Rocklin in the opening minute of a second-round match in the 235-pound bracket.

Valley News/Courtesy photo

Nonprofits profit from Soboba Charity Golf Tournament

Murrieta Valley girls’ water polo can’t get past JSerra in CIF State SoCal regional final

JP Raineri Sports Editor

After winning the Division 2 title two weekends ago, marking their sixth CIF Southern Section title, and first since 2016, the Nighthawks received the No. 2 seed in the Division 2 regional host Grossmont from the San Diego Section in a first-round match, Tuesday, Feb. 21.

It wasn’t the best start for Murrieta Valley, who were facing a three-goal deficit early on. But the Nighthawks didn’t stress out. Instead, they toughened up their defense and put their faith in goalie Jaden Soto and shooter Elizabeth Hernandez, who scored a match-high five goals. Soto would have 10 saves in the match while teammate Mackenzie Wood led Murrieta Valley with six steals in their 8-6 win.

The 1 1th annual Soboba Foundation & Soboba Casino Resort Charity Golf Tournament, which will be held Tuesday and Wednesday, March 21-22, will provide area nonprofits with $10,000 each to continue their endeavors. While most organizations have a specific project in mind for the funds, others are looking to continue offering much-needed scholarships to youths and others who don’t have the financial means to participate in educational and recreational programs

One of those nonprofits is the San Jacinto Mountain Bike Team, led by Team Director Randy Wood, who is also a teacher at San Jacinto High School. The SJMTB Team provides students with coaching

both competitive and non-competitive cross-country goals while promoting fitness, recreation and health.

The SJMBT was founded in 2013 by two San Jacinto High School teachers. These two teachers were passionate about the sport of mountain biking and wanted to share the experience with young people . The team formed a High School Mountain Bike Team and later formed a Middle School Mountain Bike Team. The governing SoCal League was established in 2008.

“We are extremely honored to have been chosen as a beneficiary,” Wood said, who added that the team typically receives funding from fundraising, individual donations and business sponsorships. “Our see CHARITY, page C-6

The Nighthawks then welcomed Millikan back in a regional semifinal bout last Thursday, which would be a rematch of the CIF Southern Section’s Division 2 championship they played six days earlier. The first few minutes saw intense action as goalkeepers Soto and Avery Reyes (Millikan), each registered four saves to keep the match scoreless.

Murrieta Valley was the first to strike when Wood hit for her first goal. Millikan’s Larsen Jensen would then score on the ensuing possession to level the score, but Elizabeth Hernandez countered when she got in scoring position. She would put one through the back of the net to give Murrieta Valley a 2-1 advantage after the first period.

As the match ended, the Nighthawks would never trail, and with the same 7-6 final result, it would be the third straight match where Murrieta Valley (22-14) would successfully protect a one-goal lead as time ran out. Soto finished the match with fourteen saves

Murrieta Valley’s Kaili Boyer (13) sets up to take a shot over two Grossmont defenders during CIF Playoff action Tuesday, Feb. 21. and three steals.

Next up, Murrieta Valley would host JSerra for the CIF State SoCal Division 2 regional championship Saturday, Feb. 25, which would be a showdown between two CIF Southern Section champions. Murrieta Valley won the CIF-SS Division 2 title, and JSerra claimed the Division 3 title. It was a defensive battle from the beginning as both teams combined for only four goals in the opening half. From there, JSerra turned on

the heat, scoring the final four goals to swim away with an 8-5 win over the Nighthawks. Scores for Murrieta Valley came from Wood (1 goal), while Hernandez and Pearce both had two goals apiece. Soto finished the match with twelve saves, and Kristen Alexander had four steals for the Nighthawks. Match info can be found online at www. cifstate.org

JP Raineri can be reached by email at sports@reedermedia.com

Ray Barefield said. “La Mirada runs a lot of good stuff and despite having a week to prepare for it we didn’t execute in some spots defensively. This group was 8-17 a year ago and took our lumps early on this season but those adverse situations and a tough schedule prepared us for this stage.”

Coming out of the half, Gomez, a sophomore who is garnering Big West attention, put La Mirada on his back and scored all 13 of the Matadores’ points. The 11-point lead was chopped to two points at 40-38 with 3:10 left in the quarter as Gomez was able to get to the basket and finish almost at will against Rancho Christian’s defense. A 9-2 run gave the Eagles some cushion with a 49-40 lead after three quarters.

“We knew that they were going to come out with energy after the half,” Patton said. “We’ve been in spots like that before and it’s about sticking together as a team, getting stops defensively, and executing offensively to answer them.”

On a pair of occasions at the midway point of the fourth quarter, La Mirada closed the gap to three points (Christopher Cuevas’ layup with 4:30 left made it 52-49 Rancho Christian while Gomez converted in the paint with four minutes left to make it 54-51 Eagles) but they’d get no closer. The Rancho Christian boys’ followed their girls’ team, on the same court, winning a CIF Southern Section championship, on the same day. A first for Eagles, putting them in an elite category in the CIF Southern Section history books.

Rancho Christian scoring:

K. Patton Jr - 18, R. Brown - 16, B. Chambers - 8, K. Murphy - 8, M. Gumwel - 6, A. Nassar - 4, T. Davis - 3

Three-pointers: Brown - 4, Davis - 1, Chambers - 1

La Mirada scoring:

J. Gomez - 32, S. Cervantes - 7, A. Sierra - 6, M. Torres - 4, C. Cuevas - 2, M. Smith - 2, A. Castillo - 2

Three-pointers: Gomez - 2, Sierra - 2, Cervantes - 1

Next up: No. 7 seeded Rancho Christian will host Carlsbad (No. 10 seed) in the opening round of the CIF State SoCal Division 2 regional tournament Tuesday, Feb. 28, at 7 p.m.

Derryl Trujillo can be reached via email at socaltrekkie@gmail. com

RANCHO from page C-1

Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians Special to the Valley News

Elizabeth Hernandez (3) scores a goal against Grossmont during CIF State regional playoff action Tuesday, Feb. 21. Valley News/Andrez Imaging

Rodney Brown Jr. drives to the hoop for two of his 16 points for Rancho Christian in their CIF Southern Section Division 2A title game against La Mirada Saturday, Feb. 25.

Kevin Patton Jr. added 18 points to help Rancho Christian capture the CIF Southern Section Division 2A title over La Mirada at Colony High School Saturday, Feb. 25.

Another view of Rancho Christian’s Martin Gumwel dunking the ball over two La Mirada defenders.

Rancho Christian’s Martin Gumwel dunks the ball over two La Mirada defenders Saturday, Feb. 25, at Colony High School.

Valley News/David Canales photo

Valley News/David Canales photo

Valley News/Time Stood Still Photography Valley News/David Canales photo

Members of the San Jacinto Mountain Bike Team, one of the beneficiaries of the 11th annual Soboba Foundation & Soboba Casino Resort Charity Golf Tournament March 21-22, pose for a group photo Valley News/Courtesy photo and camaraderie that will help them achieve

HEALTH

Southwest Healthcare Rancho Springs Hospital achieves SRC’s Center of Excellence in Robotic Surgery Accreditation

MURRIETA – Southwest Healthcare Rancho Springs Hospital recently achieved accreditation from Surgical Review Corporation as a Center of Excellence in Robotic Surgery. This accreditation recognizes Rancho Spring’s commitment and high standard of delivery of quality patient care and safety. The hospital is also celebrating its 10th anniversary of being the first hospital in the region to offer robotic surgical procedures to the surrounding communities. Status as an accredited Center

of Excellence means that Rancho Springs Hospital has met nationally and internationally recognized standards. Not all hospitals and surgeons seek accreditation; not all that undergo the rigorous inspection process are granted accreditation.

“The entire surgical team is to be commended for this outstanding achievement. With over 3,000 procedures performed since its inception, the commitment to quality has been second to none,”

Jared Giles, CEO of Southwest Healthcare Rancho Springs

Hospital and Southwest Healthcare Inland Valley Hospital, said.

Robotic techniques are used at Rancho Springs Hospital in general, gynecologic and urologic surgery, for procedures such as hysterectomies, nephrectomies which is removal of part of, one or both kidneys, prostatectomies which is removal of the prostate gland and removal of the gallbladder. The major advantages of using robotic technology are in most cases shorter hospital stays, significantly less pain postoperatively, quicker recovery

times, fewer complications, less risk of infection and less scarring.

Health care facilities and surgeons seeking an SRC accreditation undergo an extensive assessment and inspection process to ensure the applicant meets SRC’s proven standards and requirements. These requirements include surgical volumes, facility equipment, clinical pathways and standardized operating procedures, an emphasis on patient education and continuous quality assessment.

Inspectors educate staff in the accredited departments on best

Extra pandemic relief food benefits to expire in March

RIVERSIDE COUNTY – The additional emergency CalFresh food benefits that millions of Californians relied on to put food on the table during and after the pandemic are expiring soon.

For the past three years, Californians receiving CalFresh impacted by pandemic shutdowns qualified for extra benefits to

supplement their monthly grocery budgets. Known as CalFresh emergency allotments, Riverside County households received an average of $192 in additional food benefits each month since March 2020.

The extra pandemic relief ended in February, and the state will issue its final allotment Sunday,

March 26. The change follows the end of the federal public health emergency and means approximately 165,279 households in Riverside County will no longer receive the additional emergency portion of their CalFresh food benefits, according to the state’s CalFresh data dashboard.

“The extra benefits have been a great help in providing our customers with nutritious food throughout the pandemic and during the recovery,” Allison Gonzalez, assistant director of the Self Sufficiency program at the county’s Department of Public Social Services, said. “The reduction in benefits may have a significant impact for some families. We urge customers to contact us with any changes to

their household or income to ensure they receive all CalFresh benefits they are eligible for.”

Customers can contact the Department of Public Social Services at 877-410-8827.

Customers who qualify for CalFresh will continue receiving their regular monthly benefits, which are based on an individual or family’s household size, income and deductions. Since the elimination of emergency CalFresh is due to a change in federal regulations, current CalFresh recipients do not need to take any further action.

CalFresh is the state’s largest food program and issues monthly electronic benefits which can be used to buy groceries at many stores, farmers markets and online

SPORTS

practices to help an organization improve its care and services.

“We’re proud to recognize Southwest Healthcare Rancho Springs Hospital for its commitment to advancing and providing quality care for all patients,” Gary M. Pratt, CEO of SRC, said. “This accreditation signals that this facility is among the best in this specialty and is dedicated to delivering the highest level of care possible.

Submitted by Southwest Healthcare.

through retailers including Amazon and Walmart. Some recipients may use their CalFresh benefits to buy meals at participating restaurants. County residents who need food assistance and not already receiving CalFresh are encouraged to apply by at http://BenefitsCal. com or by calling 877-410-8827. For additional support, residents can also go to local food pantries. To find the nearest one, dial 211 or visit http://www.cafoodbanks. org/find-food . Anyone with questions about the end of the emergency allotments should call the California Department of Social Services outreach helpline at 888-445-1955. Submitted by the state of California.

Vista Murrieta baseball getting ready to defend league title

before the start of the regular season. The Southwestern League coaching carousel, which seems to happen around the area every three to four years, with the replacing of a head coach, hit quite a few local teams this school year. None had to adapt as quickly as the Broncos had to.

George Jones, who took over for Gary Matlock in 2018, an interim coach at the time replacing Matt Mosiello (now at Elsinore), was the head coach for the last three years at Vista Murrieta. Jones, who recently resigned, got the Broncos through the 2020 COVID year, and two seasons later would lead them to last year’s Southwestern League title with a 13-2 record, 17-12 overall. They also advanced to the postseason but fell in the first round of the Division 1 playoffs to Yucaipa.

While the details are nonexistent to the media as to why Jones resigned just before the season, an assistant coach in the program, Michael Tousignant, was handed the keys. Tousignant will be given the “interim” title according to Carl Galloway, Vista Murrieta’s Athletic Director.

So far, the Broncos, who had to fight through the last week of wet weather like every other local team, are off to a good start. They are 3-1, and battling their way through the Loara tournament, a top preseason tournament for teams looking to play outside their local area, and usually against stronger opponents. While they will have to make up some of the canceled games from the past

Valley News/Action Captures Media Group

week, Vista Murrieta will have one more preseason game this week before they open league play against Murrieta Mesa Friday, March 3.

Last week, before the rain hit, the Broncos took one from Fountain Valley in tournament action, beating the Barons 7-6 behind a solid offensive performance by first baseman Joseph Castillo. The senior slugger went 4 for 4 with 2 runs scored, and an RBI double. Niko Urquidi got the win on the bump for Vista Murrieta with his two-shutout innings, striking out 3 batters and holding Fountain Valley at bay. The Barons put six runs on the board in the bottom of the fifth inning, which got them within one run before Urquidi was able to come in and close the door.

Sophomores Brady Luyben and Vaughn Neckar contributed at the plate as well for the Broncos. Luyben was 2 for 4 with 3 RBIs and Neckar went 1 for 3, driving in two runs early in the game. This week Vista Murrieta will take on Rancho Cucamonga before welcoming the Rams to start Southwestern League play. Currently, in the Southwestern League, Great Oak is 1-0, Murrieta Mesa is 1-0, Chaparral is 3-0, Temecula Valley is 3-0-1, Vista Murrieta is 3-1, and Murrieta Valley is 3-2. Looks like it could be a very competitive year in what once was one of the nation’s toughest leagues (circa 2014–2017).

JP Raineri can be reached by email at sports@reedermedia. com

The Vista Murrieta baseball team is off to a great start with a 3-1 record as Southwestern League play gets underway this week.

JP Raineri Sports Editor

The Vista Murrieta Broncos baseball team had to adjust quickly to the changes made at the top, which took place just a few weeks

Menifee announces new road and construction project online map

Tony Ault Staff Writer

Menifee’s street project and construction update can now be found on a new online map that will exchange motorists’ travel information, providing a digital representation of where trafficrelated activities are occurring throughout Menifee.

The new City of Menifee Geographic Information System team, in collaboration with the Public Works Department, has developed the interactive online map with easy-to-read, visual representation of construction projects, road closures and other traffic-related activities.

The map, located on the City of Menifee website, features a dropdown display of active projects and updates which are also represented by icons on the map. Users can scroll either through the project list or manipulate the map to see where projects are occurring throughout the city. A list of current projects in PDF format will also remain available on the website. The map will be updated regularly but may not reflect the latest traffic conditions, unplanned maintenance work or emergency road closures.

The Street Projects and Construction Updates Map is available for viewing at www. cityofmenifee.us/traffic

Caltrans projects

Caltrans reports the unusual weather that brought large amounts of rain and snow in some places has stopped or slowed down work in recent weeks.

The $4 million safety project to construct a median concrete barrier and rumble strips on State Route 79 near San Jacinto was one of those affected, especially last week. More inclement weather was in the future forecasts.

Motorists are encouraged to watch for signage alerting motorists of upcoming construction locations and reminded to reduce speed in and surrounding the work zone. The project is expected to be complete in Spring of 2023. For more commuter and road information, visit https://dot. ca.gov/caltrans-near-me/district-8

Follow the latest information for Caltrans on Facebook and Twitter. To assist in planning your commute, view live traffic conditions using QuickMap and planned lane closures on the website.

Work was slightly delayed on the State Route 79 signal, sidewalks and Americans with Disabilities Act upgrades in Hemet. The project will modify and upgrade a traffic signal, reconstruct and upgrade sidewalks, curb ramps and driveways to current ADA standards at the intersection of E. Latham Ave. and SR-79. Crews have completed surveys at the project site and will begin work the week of March 27. Hours of operation and potential impacts to commuters and pedestrians will include: Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Intermittent lane closures in each direction will take place daily and may change weekly. There will be no full closures.

Caltrans I-15 Pavement Rehabilitation project from

The new online map will enhance the City’s street project and construction updates by providing a digital representation of where traffic-related activities are occurring throughout Menifee. Valley News/Courtesy photo

Hesperia to Victorville was delayed by snow in the area last week with CHP escorts.

Meanwhile, work continues to rehabilitate 59 miles of lane, ramps and drainage systems on Interstate 15 in San Bernardino County. The project spans from Oak Hill Road in Hesperia to just south of Bear Valley Road in Victorville.

Crews will continue excavation and paving operations, weather permitting, on the north and southbound lanes through March 4. But this is subject to change in the event of significant rain. The NB and SB lanes No. 1 and No. 2

will close due to the potential rain.

Northbound I-15 from Oak Hill Road to Bear Valley Road from 7 p.m. to 9 a.m. with alternating lane closures, possibly bringing lanes down to one. All on and off ramps are subject to intermittent closures for crew safety and related roadwork. Southbound I-15 from Bear Valley Road to Oak Hill Road from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. also with alternating lane closures, possibly bringing lanes down to one.

Work continues on the I-10 irrigation upgrades in Banning. The $2 million project plans to rehabilitate existing planting

and landscaping, and upgrade irrigation facilities to current water efficient technology as well as provide erosion control on Interstate 10 at 8th Street. Crews continue working on landscaping and irrigation facilities in and near the I-10 from .25 miles west of 8th Street to South San Gorgonio Avenue. Weather may affect work schedules. Shoulder and ramp closures on the westbound I-10 at 8th Street and the westbound I-10 SR-243 at 8th Street on and off ramps may be seen.

Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com

County’s financial position at midyear better than previously projected

City News Service

Special to Valley News

Riverside County government’s financial position going into the second half of the current fiscal year is better than predicted, with discretionary revenue now on track to beat initial estimates by almost $100 million, though cost pressures are impacting operations, according to a report that the Board of Supervisors reviewed the week of Feb. 27.

“Although the near-term outlook appears stable, we have challenges looming in the coming fiscal years,” county Chief Executive Officer Jeff Van Wagenen said. “While we continue to project increased revenues, the pace of growth is slowing significantly while costs continue to rise to maintain the status quo, let alone increase service levels or initiate new programs.”

The Executive Office said that discretionary revenue will likely exceed initial projections by $89 million at the end of 2022-2023, topping out at $1.102 billion,

rather than the $1.013 billion originally projected at the outset of the current fiscal year on July 1, 2022.

The gains are mostly the result of higher tax receipts, as residents shelled out more for goods and services, as well as greater earnings from the county’s investment pool.

Property tax receipts are expected to expand by $21.5 million more than what officials estimated before, while the county will likely take in $6.2 million in additional sales and use taxes, and separately, the county’s share of statewide Property 172 Public Safety Sales Tax revenue is projected to be $13.4 million greater than first estimated, according to the midyear budget report, which will be scrutinized as part of the board’s policy agenda.

Interest earnings within the Treasurer-Tax Collector’s investment pool, containing a range of fixed instrument products, are expected to be $35 million to $45 million more than earlier estimated, officials said.

The returns stem directly from

the Federal Reserve Bank’s ongoing hikes to the benchmark lending rate that are pushing interest rates higher on the county’s investments. The process that began last May is part of a liquidity pullback strategy to attack 40-year high inflation. The Executive Office said that the fund balance will probably continue to benefit from the Fed’s new monetary policy, which is “expected to continue ... within the forecast horizon.”

At midyear, multiple county agencies were contending with higher cost pressures, requiring bigger outlays to deal with them, the Executive Office stated. Most of the budgetary challenges were driven by revised or renewed collective bargaining agreements guaranteeing cost-of-living and merit pay hikes, as well as more county obligations to pay health insurance. However, some of the costs were tied to building maintenance and expansions, officials said.

The Riverside University Health System announced the largest

New California bill would impose limits on school board campaign donations

Micaela Ricaforte

The Epoch Times

A California legislator introduced a bill in February that would limit campaign contributions to school and community college board candidates as well as to those for special district offices such as water or electric authority boards.

Senate Bill 328, introduced by state Sen. Bill Dodd (D-Napa), would cap individual contributions at $5,500 for a person, business, or committee – equal to the limits set for state, city, and county offices. Local governments may adjust the limits under the bill, but the default would no longer be unlimited as it is currently.

Dodd said the bill aims to ensure fairness in local elections related to such boards and encourage more grassroots candidates and minority candidates to run.

“Too often, we’re seeing eyepopping amounts donated to candidates for smaller community offices,” Dodd said in a Feb. 8 statement. “These well-financed campaigns favor the wealthy at the

exclusion of grassroots candidates and people of color. Putting a cap on the money in these races will help ensure fairness in local elections while encouraging a more diverse field that is more reflective of the population.”

Dodd also said the bill aims to ensure accountability and transparency in such local elections, which, he said, “often receive little media coverage and even less scrutiny of campaign donations.”

U.S. Rep. Kevin Mullin (D-South San Francisco), who introduced a similar bill limiting donations for city and county offices when he served as a state assemblymember in 2019, praised Dodd’s bill.

“This is a good governance measure that will help maintain the public trust in our local elections,” Mullin said in a Feb. 8 statement.

“I appreciate (Dodd) carrying on that legacy and I’m proud to support this important reform.”

Gloria Romero, an education reformer and previous state senator, told The Epoch Times

Dodd’s bill was a “step in the right direction.”

However, Romero pointed out, the bill would not place limits on independent expenditures, which are campaign communications advocating independently for or against candidates.

In local school board elections, special interest groups, such as teachers’ unions and lobbyists, often form independent expenditures to fund advertising, for example, in large amounts for candidates that would advance their interests.

“The bill is a positive step toward accountability, transparency, and more opportunities for other candidates,” Romero said. “But it really doesn’t solve the problem of special interest groups increasingly trying to control local school board elections … special interest groups are still in the campaign arena.”

The bill is expected to be heard in committee this month, according to Dodd’s office.

Dodd was not immediately available for comment.

appropriations need at $105.45 million. RUHS runs the only public hospital in the county, and the bulk of patients are at or near the poverty level. The agency said that “increased patient demand” had required “additional staffing and supplies to provide the necessary patient care.” Essentially all of the increased appropriations for what remains of 2022-2023 will be covered through federal and state reimbursements, the EO said.

Among public safety agencies, the Fire Department had the largest appropriations request at $8 million. But the lion’s share of the expense will be covered via municipalities’ payments to the department under contracts with the county.

Of the $155.95 million in new appropriations requests at midyear, only $11 million will be drawn directly from the general fund, according to the EO.

Officials said that the county reserve pool is now projected to be $537 million, compared to $511 million projected in November.

The original estimate in June was

$368 million.

The board approved a $7.45 billion budget for 2022-2023, roughly 8% larger than the 20212022 budget of $6.88 billion. Most of that money is comprised of non-discretionary, or programmed, budget appropriations and includes “pass-through” revenue streams from the state and federal governments.

The county received almost $500 million in 2020 Coronavirus Aid, Relief & Economic Security Act allocations and another $480 million in 2021 American Rescue Plan Act money, and Van Wagenen acknowledged in June that just under 10% of the federal infusions were being applied to “budget stabilization” in 2022-2023.

The funds have been used for homeless and rental assistance programs, along with other social welfare efforts, but they’ve also been appropriated for multiple infrastructure or capital improvement projects.

La Cresta fatal shooting victim identified

Valley News Staff

The deceased victim from the Feb. 26 shooting in La Cresta has been identified as 35-year-old Andrew Cisneros of La Cresta.

Deputies from the Lake Elsinore Station were dispatched to the report of a shooting at a residence in the 38000 block of Via Majorca, La Cresta.

There were at least two suspects involved, who fled the location in an unknown vehicle on Sunday, Feb. 26, at about 6:22 p.m.

According to a Riverside County press release, upon arrival to the call, deputies found an adult male with gunshot wounds. Deputies attempted life saving measures

until paramedics arrived. The male victim succumbed to his injuries at the scene. Deputies secured the area as a crime scene and investigators from the Lake Elsinore Station responded. The Central Homicide Unit also responded and assumed the investigation.

The investigation is currently ongoing with no further information available.

If anyone has information regarding this investigation, they are encouraged to call Investigator Rodriguez at the Lake Elsinore Sheriff Station 951-245-3300 or Investigator G. Gonzalez with the Central Homicide Unit at 951955-2777.

sex

Laurel Duggan

The Daily Caller

Lawmakers have proposed several measures expanding the statute of limitations for medical malpractice lawsuits related to child sex changes in order to hold medical professionals financially liable for harm done to children through these procedures.

Advocates for these measures believe they could halt the child sex change industry by tying massive financial risk to the performance of irreversible medical procedures that children may grow up to regret.

“These large organizations are extraordinarily sensitive to what the lawyers tell them,” Dr. Stanley Goldfarb, board chair of Do No Harm, told the Daily Caller News Foundation. “This would be a real chilling effect on any of these large institutions that house gender clinics.”

Legislators are looking to combat the child sex change industry by expanding patients’ rights to sue medical professionals who performed sex change procedures on them as minors.

Supporters of these measures believe that lawsuits from detransitioners — people who once identified as transgender but now regret medically transitioning — could bring the child sex change industry to a halt by making it too financially risky to administer cross-sex medications and surgeries to minors. Most states impose a statute of limitations for medical malpractice of around two years, making it impossible for some detransitioners to sue their medical providers by the time they come to regret medically transitioning, but lawmakers have proposed

extending the statute of limitations for childhood sex changes and creating a private right of action for individuals in such cases.

One lawsuit seeking damages for medical malpractice related to childhood sex change procedures is already underway: Chloe Cole, a young woman who underwent puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones and a double mastectomy between the ages of 13 and 17, is suing Kaiser Foundation Hospitals, the Permanente Medical Group and several doctors who were involved in her transition. Her attorneys allege that medical professionals unquestioningly affirmed her transgender identity and failed to address her many mental health issues including anxiety, depression, speech difficulties, autism spectrum symptoms and body image issues.

Robert Weisenburger, an attorney at LiMandri and Jonna LLP who is representing Cole, told the Daily Caller News Foundation that the firm had been contacted by 10 or more patients who are interested in suing over medical transitions they underwent as minors, but he said statutes of limitations were preventing other detransitioners from pressing charges. He believes lawsuits can drastically reduce the size and scope of the child sex change industry, but said it will take more than one case to bring about change.

“[Lawsuits] would eliminate, in a significant way, the financial incentive to experiment on children in this way. And it would reduce the financial viability of operating these types of facilities. And successful malpractice lawsuits can affect licensure of doctors,” he said.

“These are children that are being experimented on, they may be under

the influence of hormones for a long period of time, and that itself has an impact on their psychology. The desistance and detransition rates are very high for children who experience gender confusion, but it often takes four or five or more years for them to desist or realize that they need to detransition,” Weisenburger told the DCNF. “It takes even longer for them to process what happened and realize that they should take legal action. So expanding statute limitations is a critical and necessary step to ensure that the rights of these children are protected.”

Dr. Stanley Goldfarb, board chair of Do No Harm and former Associate Dean for Curriculum at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, told the DCNF that creating a private right of action and expanding statutes of limitation would sharply curtail the child sex change industry. Most pediatric gender clinics are part of large hospital institutions which are highly sensitive to litigation, he said.

“These large organizations are extraordinarily sensitive to what the lawyers tell them. That’s because most of them are self insured, so they have to put reserves down each year to cover any malpractice lawsuits that they may encounter,” he said. “And if they had to now worry about a trial that might be 20 years out, for example, where they could be sued over not giving proper informed consent or not explaining the the potential complications of these gender related surgeries or medications, this would be a real chilling effect on any of these large institutions that house gender clinics.

“A child who undergoes a procedure at 15 may wake up at age 30 and realize they made a terrible

mistake. Or, more likely, it’s going to happen by four or five years out from their surgery or their initiation of hormones,” Goldfarb told the DCNF. “It takes it takes a long time for them to appreciate that they may have made a mistake.”

Republican Missouri Sen. Josh Hawley introduced a bill Feb. 15 which would create a private right of action for lawsuits against the individuals and entities responsible for child sex changes that harm the mental or physical health of patients; the legislation would hold medical professionals and clinics liable for damages until 30 years after a patient turns 18.

“Children who are harmed by these dangerous procedures, which are often irreversible and sterilizing, will now be able to fight back against those who perpetrated their abuse. And federal taxpayers will no longer be forced to foot the bill for abusive treatment,” Hawley said in a press release.

Arkansas is considering legislation that would allow patients who are physically or mentally harmed by sex change procedures they undergo as minors, including puberty blockers, crosssex hormones and surgeries, to sue health care providers for damages and injunctive relief for 30 years after turning 18. The bill makes several exceptions, including for medical professionals who documented two years of continuous transgender identification in a minor prior to their procedures and for cases in which the child’s parent offered informed consent.

The Arkansas bill was introduced Feb. 6 and is in committee.

Utah is considering a bill that would allow patients to sue providers over sex change procedures they

recieved as minors until the patient turns 25.

“Once sizable damages have been awarded in a malpractice suit, we believe it will force medical service providers, health insurers, and employers offering coverage for so-called ‘affirmative care’ to revise their positions,” Joseph Burgo, vice director of Genspect, an organization that’s critical of youth gender transitions, told the DCNF. “Greatly increased exposure will encourage a re-assessment of the risks involved. Genspect believes that outright bans on affirmative care for minors may act as a deterrent, but extending malpractice liability windows and allowing more lawsuits for the recovery of damages will do far more to curtail these dangerous procedures.”

The child sex change industry is massive and growing: There are around 100 gender clinics in the U.S., according to Reuters, and each of those clinics is likely seeing 100 to 300 children annually, Goldfarb told the DCNF. About 300,000 children in the U.S. identify as transgender, according to the University of California Los Angeles Williams Institute, though not everyone who adopts a transgender identity seeks a medical transition.

All content created by the Daily Caller News Foundation, an independent and nonpartisan newswire service, is available without charge to any legitimate news publisher that can provide a large audience. All republished articles must include our logo, our reporter’s byline and their DCNF affiliation. For any questions about our guidelines or partnering with us, please contact licensing@ dailycallernewsfoundation.org

CHARITY from page C-3

goal is to grow and get as many kids on bikes as possible.”

He said the Charity Golf Tournament funding will be used for race fees, bikes, jerseys, transportation, overnight stays, equipment and insurance fees that are all ongoing expenses for the team. He said it will also help

“Managing

One of the requirements of

the organizations that are chosen as beneficiaries is to provide volunteers to assist with all the logistics on and off the course during tournament days, which are March 21-22. Early morning check-ins, hosting games and resting points set up throughout the golf course, meeting the needs of all the players and helping out at the evening banquets at the end of each day are just some of the ways that volunteers are asked to contribute to the success of the tournament.

“My team of volunteers is looking forward to giving back,” Wood said. “A donation of $10,000 is a lot of money; we want it to be extra clear that we are very grateful for being chosen as a beneficiary.”

Another first-time recipient of the generous funding generated from this annual tournament is the Oak Grove Center, based in Murrieta. Tammy Wilson, CEO of Oak Grove Center, shared the mission of the nonprofit, which is “to rebuild the lives of at-risk children and their families through educating, healing, restoring relationships, building character and instilling hope.”

Oak Grove Center was founded in 1989 to provide treatment and care for children and teens struggling with severe behavioral and emotional problems. It provides residential care, education and treatment to an average of 1,000 youths each year who are at risk or have special needs. Its programs touch families throughout Southern California.

In 2022, 55 San Jacinto Valley children and teens were served through its multiple programs. Development Director Kristi Piatkowski said the Center’s

vision is “to be a premier treatment center that successfully prepares youth for healthy, productive and responsible lives.”

She said Oak Grove has a diverse funding stream with treatment, housing and educational costs paid through contracts that include school districts, insurance and Department of Social Services as well as adoptions.

Regarding the Soboba donation, Wilson said, “The funding will help us complete the replacement of two playgrounds. Playgrounds are important in a child’s physical and social development as well as mental health. Physically, outdoor playgrounds help improve overall health. Mentally, playgrounds support developing relationships with peers and encourage the discovery and development of other talents. They are especially important to children with special needs. It will provide a place to play, grow and thrive, and a special, safe environment where they can “just be a kid.” Additionally, partnering with a well-respected, impactful organization such as Soboba Foundation will bring attention to Oak Grove Center, spreading more awareness of what we do for the community and how others can help.”

Piatkowski said it is the fundraised dollars that go directly to the unique needs of the youth and that includes art and music, sports and recreation and vocational programs as well as special campus needs, such as the new playgrounds Soboba is helping to build. She said that without Soboba’s help, it would have taken Oak Grove Center longer to raise the funds as $10,000 will cover a significant portion of the funds

needed to build the playgrounds. Wilson said that Oak Grove volunteers are excited to be a part of the two-day event.

“It will be interesting to see how the event is organized, meet the other nonprofits and learn about those also benefiting, and being a part of this community,” she said. “We appreciate those that give back and greatly admire the generosity of Soboba.”

Rounding out this year’s selections are the 7G Foundation, Boxing for Christ, Carol’s Kitchen, Four Directions Club at San Jacinto High School, Friends of ValleyWide Foundation, Grandfathers for Golf Inc. and Inter-Tribal Sports.

Soboba Foundation members voted on the nearly 50 qualified applications received this year to find those that matched best with the Foundation’s mission and vision to support education, health, economic development and special projects within Southern California. Throughout the year, the Soboba Foundation provides financial assistance for educational and charitable activities that preserve the cultural heritage of the Soboba Band and support Native American and local community programs.

“It was difficult to narrow down our choices as all the nonprofits under consideration do such meaningful and valuable work in our communities,” Soboba Foundation President Dondi Silvas said. “We hope this year’s recipients will reap many benefits from this event and we look forward to them and others applying again next year.”

It may be painful to think about your funeral, but it doesn’t have to be painful to pay for it.

Oak Grove Center plans to build new playgrounds with the $10,000 grant received from Soboba’s 11th annual Charity Golf Tournament.

Members of Oak Grove Center’s basketball team are some of those who benefit from the nonprofit’s youth programs.

A golfer takes a swing during the 2022 Soboba charity golf tournament.

‘Chilling effect’: Here’s how lawsuits could take down the child

change industry

recruit new riders who may not have the means to purchase the necessary equipment to participate in the sport.

the costs and continued growth of the sport is difficult,” Wood said. “We do our best to find a way to get kids on bikes if they show an interest in riding.”

Valley News/Carlos Puma/Puma Images photo

Valley News/Courtesy photo

Valley News/Courtesy photo

Sheriff ’s deputies apprehend alleged burglar in Aguanga

21. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo of the truck was arrested and the alleged stolen items were returned to the owner. The Hemet Sheriff Station is

‘Snow people’ appear in Anza after hard-hitting winter storm

Monica Parsons poses next to her wintry snowman creation during the recent winter storm in Anza.

Diane Sieker Staff Writer The winter storm system that blew through Southern California Thursday, Feb. 23 into Tuesday,

Feb. 28 left a winter wonderland of several inches of snow in the Anza Valley. As the flurries and graupel showers descended upon the high country, fun-loving children of all ages emerged from

Anza pets enjoy the snow following recent storm

Anza Valley Outlook/Courtesy photo

their warm homes to create unique snow people. Some residents reported up to 12 inches of snow, while Lake

Alexis Perez captures this image of John and his dog Stevie playing in the snow. Anza Valley Outlook/Courtesy photo

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

The historical winter storm that blew into the Anza Valley and dropped several inches of snow over the course of several days

last week offered outdoor fun and adventure for local pets.

Dogs and puppies frolicked, while sheep, alpacas and other outdoor animals, mystified by the

see BURGLARY, page D-3 see SNOW, page D-5 see PETS, page D-4

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.

Regular Happenings

ONGOING – 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 Highway 371, from 10:3011:30 a.m. All are welcome. CalFresh 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 951-763-4333.

Hamilton High School – Find out what is happening using Hamilton’s online calendar at http://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 http:// www.hamiltonmuseum.org. Find them on Facebook at “HamiltonMuseum-and-Ranch-Foundation.”

Backcountry Horsemen

Redshank Riders – Meeting monthly 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 Christ-centered recovery program for all kinds of addiction meets Fridays from 7-8:30 p.m. and Tuesdays from 8-10 a.m. Program is court approved; child care is provided. Transportation help is available. The group meets at 58050 Highway 371; the cross street is Kirby Road in Anza.

AA Men’s Meeting – 7 p.m.

Meetings take place Thursdays at 39551 Kirby Road in Anza, south of Highway 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 first and third Wednesday of each month at 49109 Lakeshore Blvd. in Aguanga. For more information, contact chapter leader Linda Hardee at 951-5512826.

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 Route 371, in Anza. For more information, call 951763-4759.

Food ministries

F.U.N. Group weekly food ministry – Deliveries arrive noon Thursdays at the Anza Community Hall. To order a paid box and help feed those who can’t afford to pay, drop off payment and cash donations by Thursday at 1:30 p.m., to ERA Excel Realty, 56070 Highway 371, in Anza. Pay inside or drop off during the day in the red box outside. To drop it off, put name and request on an envelope with payment inside. A $30 box has about $100 worth of food and feeds six people. Half boxes are available for $15. Food is delivered once a week to those who cannot find a ride. For more information, call Bill Donahue at 951-288-0903.

Living Hope Christian Fellowship Community Dinner

1 p.m. Dinners 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 non-denominational 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 Sunday Sacrament is held 10 a.m.; Sunday School is 11 a.m. Priesthood/Relief Society meets 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 Highway 371, in 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 fourth 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 (6th to 12th 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 Senior’s 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 – 6:30 p.m. Meetings are on the third Wednesday 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 – 1 p.m. Meetings 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 http://www. facebook.com/AnzaValleyArtists/

Anza Quilter’s Club – 9:30 a.m. to noon. Meets the first and third Tuesday of each month at the Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 56095 Pena Road, in Anza.

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 https://www.facebook. com/LionsofAnzaValley. For more information, email president Greg Sandling at President. AnzaLions@gmail.com or Chris Skinner at Secretary.AnzaLions@ gmail.com

Boy Scouts Troop 319 – Cub Scouts meet 6 p.m. every Tuesday, and Boy Scouts meet 7 p.m. every Wednesday at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Contreras Road, south of state Route 371, in Anza. For more information, call Richard Hotchkiss at 951-551-3154.

Boys Scouts Troop 371 – Boy Scouts meet at Lake Riverside

We always appreciate any and all donations from you directly or through our participating Community Rewards Program!

Estates. For more information, call Ginny Kinser at 909-702-7902.

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 http://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 state Route 371 in Anza. Call 951763-5611 for information.

Redshank Riders – 7 p.m. Backcountry horsemen meet at the Little Red Schoolhouse in Anza, the second Thursday of each month. Visit http://www. redshankriders.com or call Carol Schmuhl for membership information at 951-663-6763.

Anza Thimble Club – The club meets the first Thursday of the month at Valley Gospel Chapel, 43275 Chapman Road in Anza. The social hour is 11:30 a.m., and lunch is served at noon. Contact Carol Wright at 951-763-2884 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.

From the Heart Christian Women’s Ministries – Noon. Monthly luncheon and guest speaker are held the second Saturday of each month. The $5 charge covers lunch at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 56095 Pena Road, in Anza. From the Heart helps the area’s neediest children and invites all women and men to join in their mission. Donate or help with the rummage sales twice a year to raise funds for the cause or other events. For more information, call president Christi James at 951-595-2400.

Anza Community Hall – 7 p.m.

General membership meetings are held the fourth Thursday of the month. Memberships cost $20 per person or $35 per business, and both get one vote. No government funds are allocated for the Hall, which pays its bills through memberships and swap meets. Voting members receive discounts off hall rentals, swap meet booths and save on propane gas from Ferrellgas. Mail membership to: Anza Community Building Inc. at P.O. Box 390091, Anza, CA 92539. The hall is located at 56630 Highway 371 in Anza. Swap meet held each Saturday of the month, weather permitting, early morning to 1 p.m. Vendors wanted. For more information, call 951-2824267.

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 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 http:// www.anzacivic.org.

Anza High Country Recreation Little League gears up for 2023 season

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

High Country Recreation is looking forward to another Little League season with tryouts in March with opening day April 15. Registration for Little League closed Tuesday, Feb. 28.

The HCR board of directors said they are confident that this will be a great season and will welcome any help from the community as they move forward.

“We’ve been updating the fields,” HCR member Monica Parsons said. “This year we even offered free registration with over 100 kids signed up. All registered players will be placed on a team.”

Age divisions are as follows: T-Ball, 4-6 years of age; Minors, 7-9 years of age; and Intermediate (50/70), 10-13 years of age.

Some players may play in a lower or higher division, depending upon experience and age. Tryouts are scheduled for Saturday, March 11 and Saturday, March 18. Coaches will contact their players during the week of March 20.

“The minors and intermediate players try out so that coaches can draft players to their teams. This helps level the teams,” Parsons explained. Coaches, assistant coaches, team managers and parent volunteers are needed to ensure another terrific season for the kids.

“We want to thank our volunteers

who play their part, so that Little Leaguers everywhere can live their own epic series,” Parsons said. For more information, please

contact Monica Parsons at 760609-8904. Anyone interested in learning more about HCR and the sports programs

or want to volunteer or simply donate funds, please contact HCR www. facebook.com/HCRecreation or www.AnzaHCR.com.

BURGLARY from page D-1

committed to the safety of the residents they serve.

The goal of the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department is to keep all citizens safe while also improving the quality of life for those residing within the community. Criminal activity negatively impacts the community. The Riverside County

Anza

Outlook/Diane

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

Sheriff’s Department has a zerotolerance policy for these offenses. If you suspect criminal activity in your area, please contact the Hemet Sheriff’s Station at 951791-3400. Crimes 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

Little League athletes, girls and boys, look forward to the 2023 season.

Valley

Sieker photo

Riverside County Sheriff’s deputies perform a stop on an alleged stolen trailer with a car and quad inside in Aguanga.

This Ford truck is reported by a neighbor for being involved in an alleged burglary in Aguanga Tuesday, Feb. 21.

Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photos

Riverside County Sheriff’s deputies are alerted to a possible burglary in progress and stop a Ford truck pulling an alleged stolen trailer in Aguanga, Feb. 21.

The alleged stolen trailer is opened by Riverside County Sheriff’s deputies to reveal reported stolen vehicles inside.

PETS from page D-1

new snow, apparently also enjoyed themselves as the animals’ owners snapped pictures.

From wonderment and curiosity to excitement, many of Anza’s pets were entertained by the results of the record snowfall.

The storm system that pushed through Southern California Thursday, Feb. 23, into Tuesday, Feb. 28, produced periodically intense wind, rain and snowfall combined with below-average freezing temperatures.

Several feet of fresh snow fell in the higher elevations, with Anza and Aguanga reporting between 4 and 12 inches of the frozen rain. The dangerous weather conditions prompted the California Highway Patrol to enforce snow chain requirements to reduce the risk of people becoming stranded and blocking the two-lane mountain corridors.

Pets and livestock, oblivious to their humans’ weather troubles, enjoyed the white snowdrifts to play and explore. This has been the third episode of snowfall in the Anza Valley so far this winter.

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

Patti Taylor’s little dog Mini, awaits her human and canine playmates during the winter storm last week in Anza.

Petey, Monica Squires’ three-year-old registered Shetland ram, is comfortable in the cold snow last week in Anza.

Saki, front, Stacey and Bodie wonder why the grass disappeared during the winter storm last week in Anza.

Chrystie Murphy’s dogs look confused by all the white stuff during the winter storm last week.

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Daniel Huish’s dog patrols the property in the snow in Anza.

Janene Edmisten’s rooster doesn’t seem to mind the snow after the storm.

Gem Ann Garner snaps these ducks fluffed-up during the winter storm in Anza.

Patti Taylor’s pup Jake wears his cute snow suit in Anza.

Makiya Walters’ dog is not sure what to make of all the cold, white snow during last week’s winter storm.

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SNOW from page D-1

Riverside Estates experienced a recorded 4 inches of snow at one point during the storm. As a result of the freezing fluffy precipitation, clever snow people popped up in almost every neighborhood. From extra tall to diminutive snowmen to plump snow people and snow cats, fun was had and memories made. “I make a snowman everytime it snows here,” Tao Bowen said. Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia. com

Detransitioner lawsuits seek to slow gender ‘affirming’ care for children

doubt their own self-image. This does not mean that gender identity is within the school’s purview to manage. To the contrary, it shows a school overstepping its role and confusing children rather than protecting them.”

I was recently watching a training for teachers and administrators. An openly trans teacher defended hiding information about students who were experimenting with changing their names and gender identity from the parents.

to. The teacher may be there for a year, but the parents will be there until they die. They have given of themselves to create the child and have committed their lives, their fortunes and many years and sleepless nights to the child’s welfare. They will be the ones responsible and dealing with potentially tragic damage long after the teacher is gone.

in North America. Today there are over 400. It’s becoming a huge business and California wants to become the Trans tourism state for minors.

Julie Reeder Publisher

The Defense of Freedom Institute for Policy Studies released a new report last week titled “Pills and Pronouns” that found eight of the nation’s 20 largest school districts allow students to use names and pronouns at school aligned with their gender identity without parental knowledge and consent. Yet these same districts, including San Diego Unified School District, Los Angeles Unified School District, New York City Department of Education and Chicago Public Schools, require parental permission to dispense over-the-counter medication to students at school.

“There are more than 3 million students in America from kindergarten all the way through their senior year of high school who are allowed to change their name and pronouns at school without their parents knowing, but not to take an Advil from the school nurse,” DFI spokesperson Angela Morabito said.

The report also stated, “These districts treat medical concerns as needs children bring with them from home to school. Issues of sex and gender identity, conversely, are treated as needs that arise in school that may or may not be brought home to the parents. These issues may very well develop at school, especially if a teacher delivers age-inappropriate lessons about gender and cause children to

The teacher always referred to the parents as “caregivers.” I thought that was interesting and denigrating to parents. I would suspect that this teacher probably isn’t a parent and doesn’t have a full understanding of what it means, or costs in terms of years of emotional, capital and financial investment of what it takes to raise a child.

Good teachers can impact a student for a lifetime. They can also do great damage for a lifetime, especially if there is any abuse, or the student is taught ideology rather than education.

This is what our local parents are vigilantly watching for and fighting against. During the last Fallbrook High School board meeting, there was a lot of public comment about the books available on Chromebooks or in the library. Some were very graphic and seemed to normalize sexual abuse of a young boy who then performed sexual favors for the men in the neighborhood and it was portrayed as pleasurable and OK. Parents who spoke described the book as child abuse and something that should be reported to CPS.

The teacher introducing gender ideologies may think they are doing the students a favor, but there is more and more evidence that it may just be introducing sexual confusion which could have dire consequences, especially into an age group that feels awkward anyway. Parents need and have the right to know what their child is being exposed

The same parent that nurtured that child as a baby will be the one dealing with a minor who is deciding to have perfectly good parts of their body permanently removed. The parents will be the ones consoling the child after they realize that they may not be able to conceive after all the puberty blockers, sex hormones or surgery. Their voice may never return to its feminine tones after taking testosterone. The same students who aren’t legally able to take an Advil or aspirin at school likely won’t understand the scope of what it means that not only will they be sterile, but they may never achieve sexual climax if they’ve mutilated their biological sex organs.

Parents, not “caregivers,” are the ones who really love that child. They are the ones responsible; legally, financially and emotionally, and they are the ones left holding the bag and trying to pick up all the pieces and nurture their children or young adults who were “affirmed” and decide to make radical medical decisions before they were adults, emotionally, physically. They may be immature and unable to really understand the breadth and depth and finality of what they are doing.

The lawsuits are starting. Some children claim they were given puberty blockers or sex hormones during their first medical appointment and no consideration was given to the possibility that they may have had gender dysphoria, trauma, etc. or were just being influenced by friends or TikTok influencers.

Two years ago it was claimed that there were 60 gender clinics

But some detransitioners realize, after years of living as a trans person, that they are instead lesbian, gay or bisexual. Other detransitioners come to discover that what they thought was only gender dysphoria may have instead reflected a more complex picture – perhaps including a neurodivergence, the aftermath of a past trauma, or some other mental health challenge.

In the UK, the Tavistock Clinic, the premier genderaffirming treatment center under the country’s National Health Service, was closed because there were over 1,100 lawsuits filed by detransitioners and their parents who alleged “multiple failures of duty of care” with regard to its pediatric patients suffering from gender dysphoria. The clinic was also charged with having “recklessly prescribed puberty blockers with harmful side effects and adopted an ‘unquestioning, affirmative approach’ to children identifying as transgender.”

Children were rushed through without consideration of their age, maturity level or mental and emotional state.

Tavistock’s “affirming” care meant that any questioning of whether this rush to treatment is appropriate for a particular person expressing gender dysphoria was considered inappropriate.

One of the first lawsuits was filed by Keira Bell who was treated at Tavistock. She claimed she was fast-tracked for gender affirmation treatment even though, as a minor, she had little understanding of the longterm consequences of what she was consenting to. She is now detransitioned and is fighting for other children who she says are being rushed along a treatment plan to irreversible changes that they can’t possibly understand.

The court found in her favor that much of the treatment is

not based on solid evidence and children under 16 can’t consent to a treatment with such major irreversible consequences.

The High Court of England ruled on Dec. 1, 2022 that a minor child does not have the capacity to consent to treatments that cause sterility, sexual dysfunction, short stature, decreased bone density and increased risk of heart attacks and blood clots. These are adult decisions that shouldn’t be entered into by children.

Another well-known detransitioner in the United States is Chloe Cole. She is represented by Harmeet Dhillon and is suing Kaiser Permanente.

Additional law firms are gearing up for class action lawsuits and some states are banning these treatments on minors. Other laws are being passed giving detransitioners the right to sue parents and their doctors, which may slow the fervor for permanently altering children.

The AFI Report stated, “They think parents can be cut out of the conversation, and that they should be the ones in charge of major decisions in a child’s life. And that’s just not true. This report is really about the acute need to put control back in the hands of parents.”

What may seem like a small thing to a teacher or administrator could have long-term dire consequences for students and their families.

Emily Crouch snaps this photo of her very proud child and the snowman she made during the winter storm last weekend in Anza.

Gem Ann Garner’s daughter created a unique snow cat during the recent winter storm. Anza Valley Outlook/Courtesy photos

Janene Edmisten’s daughter Sawyer, left, and son Hunter stand next to an over six-foot-tall snowman they made in Anza.

Mateo, left, and Diego show off their snowman during the winter storm in Anza.

Tao Bowen makes a personable snowman last weekend in Anza.

Any one of these categories would be worth supporting. We hear weekly how important our work is, but we can’t do it without the support of our community.