Valley News - March 15, 2024

San Jacinto

Unified unites its support services

Diane A. Rhodes

Special to Valley News

To better serve families in the San Jacinto Unified School District, a centrally located Student, Community and Personnel Support center has been completed.

The official grand opening took place with a ribbon cutting on March 6, which included tours of each of the four buildings that total 7,200 sq.ft. Dr. Courtney Hall, a former San Jacinto High School principal, will serve as its executive director.

Dedication of memorial wall to be held April 6 in Anza

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

High Country 4-H and the Anza Civic Improvement League will hold a dedication ceremony for a memorial wall erected to commemorate those who have lost their lives on local highways

Saturday, April 6, at Minor Park in Anza, beginning at 10:30 a.m..

see page D-1

Women’s Day March 8

Tony Ault Staff Writer

“Hold your nose and keep on going,” was the advice Riverside County 2nd District Supervisor

Karen Spiegel shared with more than 400 women at “A Day in Her Shoes” women’s conference

Friday, March 8, as a part of International Women’s Day at Murrieta Hot Springs Resort.

Spiegel was one of more than a dozen noteable and successful women in science, public safety, politics and from the SAFE Family Justice Centers that sat on various panels at the conference. The women encouraged fellow women to pursue their dreams and keep on achieving their goals, no matter what the obstacle, be it mental or physical abuse, frustration, family, career challenges and loss.

Topping the encouraging words was special guest Jennifer Turpin, who along with her 12 siblings, escaped from an extreme life of abuse and physical pain in 2018, making nationwide news. Turpin has flourished since then, through a successful career as a phlebotomist and an author of encouraging words for women.

The conference, held at the newly opened Murrieta Hot Springs Resort conference center, included a breakfast created by the culinary students at Oak Grove at the Ranch, designated beneficiaries of the event. Lunch was provided by numerous food and catering vendors in the Valley.

The day-long conference included a great deal of time for

see SHOES, page A-4

Valley

Families celebrate wildlife appreciation at park grand opening

vendors who offered many close encounters of the animal kind. Along with the wildlife meet and greet experiences, visitors could learn about conservation, habit restoration, recycling and more or simply enjoy the park’s covered playground and other amenities.

families.

Despite intermittent rain sprinkles and wind gusts, children of all ages were excited to interact with

Wild Wonders showcased several different types of creatures, including a desert tortoise, Madagascar hissing cockroach, hedgehog, rosy boa and a Honduran Curly Hair tarantula. Handlers answered questions about all of them. Ashley Stroh said the wildlife sanctuary in Bonsall offers onsite tours where visitors can learn more about

see PARK, page A-6

Scarlett Gibson, 8, holds a snake at an exhibit during the Wildlife Appreciation Day event during the Quartz Ranch Park grand opening event in Menifee, March 2. Valley News/Shane Gibson photo

Murrieta assistant city manager announces retirement

Valley News/Courtesy photo

City introduces new Assistant City Manager Justin Clifton

MURRIETA – After nine years with the city of Murrieta and as the culmination of a 40-year career, Assistant City Manager Ivan Holler is retiring in April. Holler started his career with the city as the development services director in 2015. His talents earned him the title of assistant city manager in 2017. He has been the driving force behind several pivotal projects that have positioned Murrieta for longterm success and growth including the entitlements for CarMax, the Kaiser Medical Campus, Costco

and the Murrieta Hot Springs Resort. “It’s been an honor to work for the city of Murrieta, and a privilege to contribute to several challenging, but also very rewarding projects,” Holler said. “I’m thankful for the opportunity to work alongside City Manager Kim Summers and many other talented individuals. I will miss them all. I look forward to what the next chapter brings.”

Before joining the city, Holler served in a variety of roles for the Rancho Santa Fe Association,

including assistant manager, and acting manager. Prior to that he also spent over 10 years working for the county of San Diego with his last role as the deputy planning director. His last day with Murrieta will be Thursday, April 4.

Murrieta will welcome Justin Clifton as its new assistant city manager. Clifton has over 15 years of city management experience, overseeing and building high-performing organizations to improve

see MANAGER, page A-2

Ivan Holler, assistant city manager of Murrieta, is retiring in April.

Designers of Menifee Civic Center Parking Lot project gain more funding

Tony Ault Staff Writer

Menifee city’s reason for increasing the design cost of the planned Civic Center parking lot by $33,440 was brought into question by members of the Menifee City Council Wednesday evening, March 6, at City Hall.

The city earlier approved approximately $330,000 to be paid to the architectural firm of KimleyHorn and Associates to plan and design the parking lot that would temporarily help the parking situation at Menifee’s Central Park. The lot will be located north of City Hall Drive and east of Civic Center Drive and south of the Fairfield Inn hotel in portions of the soccer field. Central Park is just south of the proposed parking lot.

First raising the question about the extra cost of $33,440 was former Council member Matt Liesemeyer and an engineer in a public comment. He questioned the cost as higher than that of other similar parking lot projects and asked why it is termed “temporary.” Following his comment, Council member Lesa Sobek said it should be further discussed before being approved in the night’s

consent items. The discussion brought Nick Fidler, director of city Public Works, to explain the reason for the extra cost associated with the design contract. Fidler first explained the parking lot would ultimately be used for the new parking areas for the park and future City Hall needs and would not be temporary. He said the added costs were requested when it was learned there will be more work needed to coordinate with Southern California Edison, Charter and Frontier cable companies, Eastern Municipal Water District and the Riverside County Flood Control and other reviewing agencies in its construction that would conflict with other facilities like Fairfield Inn, thus the higher cost. He said those discussions are ongoing. With that explanation, the council voted 5-0, including Mayor Bill Zimmerman, but they still raised some questions about how the future City Hall might be accessed from the parking lot and the effect on the hotel parking.

Fidler said those questions would be answered in the final plans. Fidler said there will also be much more planned in the parking lot including a possible park, electric

vehicle charging stations, a place for events like Menifee’s Foodie Fridays and other uses.

The council approved the appointment of representatives to attend meetings and join the Southwestern Riverside County Higher Education Coalition to expand higher education institutions in this part of the county.

The coalition is working with California State University San Marcos to bring a satellite university to Temecula on the third floor of the MSJC college building in Temecula.

Council member Ricky Estrada said he was in favor of bringing the university into Menifee rather than Temecula. He learned, however, from Gina Gonzalez, director of the city’s Economic Development who will soon be leaving her post, that the invitation for California State University San Marcos has already been extended to lease the satellite school. And as of now, the city of Menifee does not have the needed 35,000 square feet of building space to accommodate the university like Temecula, she said. The space in Temecula could accommodate the current 4,200 university students in the region, but more than 5,000 students

would need to be attending before the university would consider a permanent facility, according to Gonzalez. If that is the case, Menifee might be considered as a location to reduce the area’s “brain drain.” It would allow those students to remain near their homes while attending school instead of commuting long distances to a university.

An outline of who might be presented a “key to the city” for their achievements or notoriety was presented by Gonzalez at the meeting, but it was given a lower approval by the council. While the criteria for the presentation of a key to the city was generally approved by a 3-2 vote, Council member Bob Karwin and Council member Estrada were not in favor of giving such recognition to residents at this time. Karwin saw it as a “waste of time” and “duplicative” of other methods of recognition already given by the city. Estrada said it was a kind of city “fluff,” and there were other more important priorities in the city.

During public comments, Menifee resident Monica C. asked the council and the city to be on the lookout for rowdy teens partying in the foothills and setting bonfires

Green space passive park seen in Sun City’s future

Tony Ault Staff Writer

A Sun City Community meeting called by the city of Menifee to discuss what should be done with a smaller passive park brought nearly 100 local residents to express their views at the Faith Lutheran Church in Sun City Monday, March 4.

Pleased with the community turnout, Menifee Council member Bob Karwin, the contracted designers from BLMA Landscape Architects and Mayor Bill Zimmerman appeared at the meeting to hear the residents’ comments.

The city purchased the 1.8-acre piece of land behind the church for just under $500,000. It is sandwiched between Sun City residents living near the church on Portsmouth Drive. The purchase from Faith Lutheran came with a promise it would be used as a passive park or green space for the surrounding residents.

Karwin, who represents Sun City, said, “This discussion has nothing to do with either the movie theater or the golf course… It is just an idea. We are looking for what you want or don’t want in this open space that can help this

MENIFEE – Additional officers from the Menifee Police Department will be out on patrol Friday, March 15, from 7 p.m. to 3 a.m. looking for drivers suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

part of the neighborhood.”

The city received funding from the California Natural Resource Agency through an urban greening grant to help build a park that had to remain passive, with no ballfields or restrooms like other city parks. With that in mind, the city parks representatives called for the meeting to receive comments from the local residents on what they would like to see in the park.

Many of the residents responded by telling the designers they most would like to see it become safe from the homeless camping in the area, with proper fencing and proper disposal of animal waste and trash. They wished to see some walking paths, not necessarily concrete, around the park.

A round of applause came from the attending residents when one said the name of the park should signal that it is a Sun City community park, even though it is in Menifee.

The city staff assured the residents that the park would be safe with patrols from the police department, public services and park rangers with the proper hedging around the park to assure residents’ backyard privacy.

The suggestions were taken into

at night above Melmore Road in Menifee on private land near a conservation area. She was assured the police department and public works are aware of the illegal teen parties and are taking steps to close off the road to the area and better patrol the location.

In presentations, Anne Mayer, executive director of the Riverside County Transportation Commission, called upon the council to support the county’s effort to soon place a new sales tax on the county ballot to raise funds to help complete a Highway 79 road alignment project from Newport Road in Menifee to Gilman Springs Road in San Jacinto leading to Lamb Canyon. She said it will cost approximately $25 million to complete, but no funding is available to pay that cost. Rights of way, however, are being procured for the future project.

The Paloma High School girls’ wrestling team was brought before the council to be presented certificates of recognition for recently winning the CIF high school girls’ wrestling championship.

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

Map of the planned 1.8 acre passive park in Sun City behind the Faith Lutheran Church on Portsmouth Drive in Menifee.

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

Valley News/Tony Ault photo consideration by the city staff and will be implemented as the new community park is designed and developed.

“DUI’s are 100% preventable and when somebody makes the bad decision to drive impaired; it can potentially have lifelong effects,” Chief Chris Karrer said. “Driving while under the influence of alcohol, and/or drugs, is dangerous, potentially deadly. It not only affects the driver but so many families and friends too.”

Arrange for a ride if you plan on drinking or designate a sober driver when going out, otherwise you may get arrested and face legal challenges.

The Menifee Police Department reminded the public that impaired driving is not just from alcohol. Some prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving. Always follow directions for use and read warning labels about driving or “operating heavy machinery,” which includes driving a car. While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under

communities. He previously served in the private sector and before that served as the city manager in Palm Springs.

“I’m excited to be the new assistant city manager,” Clifton said. “My commitment to the organization and community of Murrieta is to pursue excellence in every area. I pride myself on being an innovative thinker who is thoroughly prepared and eager to surpass expectations. I truly love being an integrated part of a community, bringing passion, vision, and excellent leadership; working together to create a product for which we can all be proud.”

As assistant city manager, Clifton will assist the city manager with the daily operations of the city, achieving the city council’s goals, strategic planning, implementing best practices, refining policies and procedures, assisting in plan-

ning, organizing, and directing the services and activities of city departments and programs, and providing oversight of the city in the city manager’s absence. Clifton is filling one of two assistant city manager roles.

“We are thrilled to bring Mr. Clifton onboard,” Summers said. “He has a passion for service yet is datafocused, bringing a balanced set of skills to the city. I know his talents will help ensure our city continues to develop while maintaining a high quality of life.”

Clifton holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and philosophy from the Fort Lewis College and holds a master’s degree in political science and public policy from Colorado University in Denver. In addition, he holds the designation of credentialed manager from the International City/County Management Association.

Submitted by city of Murrieta.

Aquablation therapy is a robotic procedure that removes prostate tissue using the power of water. The treatment is performed in a hospital and is done under anesthesia. The procedure typically takes less than an hour and involves an overnight stay.

Aquablation therapy is the only procedure that uses a camera (cystoscope) in combination with ultrasound imaging to view the prostate. This enables the surgeon to see the entire prostate so he or she can create a surgical map of the areas of the prostate to remove and those to avoid. In every other available surgical procedure, the surgeon’s view of the prostate is limited to a single camera (cystoscope). This limits the surgeon’s ability to see the parts of the prostate that control erectile function, ejaculatory function, and incontinence.

0% impact on erectile function, orgasmic function, sexual desire, intercourse satisfaction or overall sexual satisfaction

Low rates of irreversible complications

View of the entire prostate with ultrasound imaging heat-free waterjet technology.

~90% of men with BPH preserve ejaculatory function with Aquablation therapy

Confidence in the procedure

This robotic technology minimizes human error in removing prostate tissue and ensures the tissue is removed precisely.

99% of men with BPH did not have incontinence after Aquablation therapy

Long-term relief

In clinical studies, Aquablation therapy has been shown to provide long-term relief at three years.

networking where the attendees learned about the many business opportunities and careers available to them where women took th elead. They were able to hear in person about the achievements of successful local women.

The conference was broken into six special moderated sessions, beginning with a presentation of successful women in science and ending with a special ceremony that presented Jennifer Turpin and her sister Jordan, who could not attend, with the inaugural Resilience Award by the SAFE Family Justice Center.

Women in Science

The first panel of the day, Women in Science, was moderated by Judy Zulfiqar, Chief Strategist of Watermark Associates. She brought Rebecca Driscoll, CEO and founder of the Cancer Help Desk at the Murrieta Innovation Center, who advised women to “Find your Passion” and pursue their dreams in the health field of their desire. She said she believed that no one should “leave a doctor’s office confused about cancer.” Cancer Help Desk helps patients navigate cancer treatment options and resources.

In a different life situation, Kitty Loduvica Hiert, originally from the Netherlands, found herself with a son challenged with developmental language disorder (DLD). She began her career as a microbiologist but was met with challenges with her family. She eventually earned her MBA, all while navigating healthcare and education solutions for her son.

Using that life knowledge, Hiert started “Super Family,” a company founded in 2018 that helps other parents find treatment, support, and educational needs for children with DLD. She took it upon herself to learn all she could in order to help other families struggling with the same disorder and became an expert on DLD. She said by surrounding herself with people that were better than her, she could learn from their expertise, and advised the crowd to do the same. She said, “Learn more, keep learning and stay eager,” and “never give up.”

Then came Helen C. Harrison, M.A. Founder and CEO of Genetic Research who said women should learn everything they can about their chosen career. She began her career in the medical field but soon was weighed down with her family. But, later took her life in hand and soon earned her MBA in business and turned it into her own marketing business. She said no matter what age or circumstance in life to “Take the leap. It is really good on the other side.”

Women in Public Safety

Moderator Misty Reynolds, Riverside County Sheriff Chief Deputy, brought retired Riverside County Undersheriff Valerie Hill and Murrieta Police Officer Amber Ruzek, along with Julie Ngo from State Farm Insurance and retired businesswoman Marcy Thompson to the stage. The audience watched a video with Ngo and Thompson going through a simulation of what officers come across while in the field. Moderator Reynolds then asked the ladies about their experience, spreading some civilian awareness about what law enforcement officers face in their line of work.

Reynolds said she brought three generations of police officers to the panel and in that time, “We have come a long way.” She began with Officer Ruzek, the newest member to law enforcement. Ruzek said she grew up in Murrieta and whenever she interacted with the local police officers, “I always left smiling.” She said she had a retired law enforcement officer as a high school teacher that often served as a mentor.

Hill said she saw her career coming in law enforcement after an accident in 1957 where an officer was very kind to her as a sevenyear-old and told her if she wanted to be a police officer they, “would be proud to have you.” Even though her parents said “Women can’t be police officers,” she still decided to pursue the career and 20 years later, she not only became one of the first women officers in Riverside County, but also achieved other career distinctions including becoming a training officer, hostage negotiator, assistant sheriff and the first female undersheriff in Riverside.

Reynolds said her story of becoming a police officer was different because she had a mixed childhood experience and found out she had a different mother who was a truancy officer. That experience changed her life, and she went into law enforcement.

Hill shared on the panel that her hardest case was that of a threeyear-old girl she met on a call waiting for an individual to arrive at a residence, and while waiting, Hill played “peek a boo” with the little girl from a neighboring property. Later, on a different call to that neighboring property, Hill discovered she had been severely hurt from a beating by her parents who were cooking drugs. She said there were some hard days but she wouldn’t change anything in the world being a woman police officer. “Absolutely nothing!”

Reynolds said in law enforcement, mentorship is very important. And encouraged women interested in law enforcement and becoming an officer, to think, “If she can do it. I can do it.” Reynolds shared that working with men all day has its challenges, but they “love working with me and they don’t see me as a female, but as a coworker.”

Ruzek recalled her worst day was on her 25th birthday in 2022. When she was in training, a call came in for medical aid for a motorcycle accident in the desert where, sadly, Ruzek witnessed the death of the injured woman despite performing CPR. The woman happened to be the same age as Ruzek had just turned that day. “It was tough,” she said.

Reynolds said that today, there are resources available at law enforcement agencies to help officers when struggling with traumatic calls or overall mental health, instead of just having to, “Tough it up.” Hill said in her day it was much harder without the resources they have today like counselors and comfort animals.

Ruzek shared that Murrieta Police Department has officer wellness and peer support teams to help in those circumstances.

Reynolds said the work as a law enforcement officer isn’t easy but it’s rewarding.

Two local residents, Julie Ngo and Marcy Thompson, recalled a special visit they made to the Ben

resulting in not being able to save her, and Thompson not getting a firearm shot off before the burglar attacked her with a hammer because of indecision.

residents said their

to the center changed their attitude toward the job of being a police officer today and they developed a much greater respect for the training they receive before going out in the field.

Yet, sympathy is still a part of being an officer who has to make split second decisions on when to save a life or their own lives in the field.

C. Clark Law Enforcement Training Center when they went through some situations officers might face in their duties. A video documenting their reactions was played showing how they engaged different scenarios, including armed subjects with various weapons, a suicidal person injuring themselves with a knife, and a burglary. Ngo and Thompson were armed with different tools depending on the situation, including a firearm, a Taser or stun gun, and a baton. The women reacted differently, with Ngo struggling to act out of sympathy for the suicidal person,

Both

visit

SHOES from page A-1

Regina Casini of Michelle’s Place Cancer Resource Center, left, provides information to Teri Currie during A Day in Her Shoes event at Murrieta Hot Springs Resort on International Women’s Day, March 8. Valley News/Shane Gibson photos

A “women in politics” panel discussion is given by from left, Riverside County District 2 Supervisor Karen Spiegel, Murrieta Mayor Lori Stone, Attorney and Riverside County Community College Board Trustee Virginia Blumenthal and Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District Board Member Darcy Burke at the “A Day in Her Shoes” event.

Karen Spiegel, Riverside County District 2 Supervisor, speaks during A Day in Her Shoes event on International Women’s Day, March 8.

Members of SAFE Family Justice Centers, an organization that provides help and resources to victims of domestic violence, prepare to participate in a panel discussion during “A Day in Her Shoes” event.

Reynolds encouraged women to apply for work in law enforcement as more are needed.

Mentorship

Kimberle Smith Austin led the mentorship portion of the discussion explaining how important it is for women in business and other professions to take advantage of all mentorship opportunities they may have to help their careers and professions.

Smith Austin, a business growth, communication and lifestyle strategist, invited the women participants to come to her table and talk about the value of being a mentor or mentee as a woman seeking to grow in their own professions. “Mentorship will maximize your potential,” she said.

“Be sure to have more than one mentor in your life,“ Smith Austin added. A number of women on video explained how mentors in their lives helped them become attorneys and experts in other fields. She encouraged the audience to say “wow” and think about those who help mentor them in their professions. She said, “Look around, your next mentor may be standing or sitting next to you.”

Smith Austin said the conference has brought so many women with the same interests together and they have the ability to help each other. After the mentorship presentation, the attendees enjoyed lunch and networking in the conference hall with numerous food options provided by different area vendors.

Women in Politics

Murrieta Mayor Lori Stone became the moderator of the Women in Politics portion of the program, introducing Supervisor Karen Spiegel; Virginia Blumenthal, from the Riverside Community College Board of Trustees, and Darcy M. Burke, a member of the Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District Board to speak of their life in the political arena. Spiegel was first to be called on by Stone. She explained at first she didn’t even know what a county supervisor was but was on the Corona city council for some time. When she decided to run she thought she knew everything but learned how much broader a supervisor’s duties are. But, she said, “It’s always different when you wear the shoes.” She admitted she “ate a lot of crow” when she first started as a supervisor.

Burke explained her job as a water district director was mainly about keeping thousands of people alive through the treatment and distribution of drinking water and wastewater the agency handles.

Blumenthal said her job is bettering the thousands of students in their advanced learning journeys so they can continue their education at other universities or trade schools and professions they choose. She emphasized the growing need to teach technical and computer skills today after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Burke said her expertise in water

When asked what she would change in her life’s journey or advise her younger self, Blumenthal said she would not do anything different in her younger life. “Get over it,” she said. She acknowledged being the first woman to do many things in the Riverside area, including opening the first womanowned law firm in Inland Southern California. “You just put one foot in front of the other and just keep on going.”

Burke was asked how a female adjusts her seat at a table of all men in the industry. She earned her recognition at the table with the help of mentors who magnified her skill sets. She said she was the one who worked to build the Western Science Center near Metropolitan Water District’s Diamond Valley Lake in Hemet but the attention about her feat went to someone else during the opening ceremony: Senator Dianne Feinstein. However, later she met with the MWD director and Senator Feinstein and took the situation as a learning moment. She learned about the history of Diamond Valley Lake from the MWD Director and later came to work for him. “You need to prove your worth” to everyone in the male-dominated industry and engineers.

Stone said the difficult job as an elected official is to navigate with all the people in a jurisdiction and think about what is in the best interest of the entire community. As a nonpartisan representative, she highlighted that her position was to improve the quality of life for many constituents in her district, saying it’s important to, “do the best for all you can.”

Spiegel said the nation needs more elected women to make the decisions of today. She suggested women find mentors to help reach their goals. “You can do it!”

The Need for Journalism

A video shown in between two of the panels featured Julie Reeder, owner and publisher of the Village News and Valley News, and the presenting sponsor of “A Day in Her Shoes.” Reeder encouraged women to succeed in their careers and professions. “I like what I do and one of things I would like to instill in you ladies is whatever happened in your past does not necessarily dictate the future. You can do anything you want and what has happened to you is not what you are. It does provide you with the experience in your amazing life, and you are in charge of your life and you can do whatever you want to do.”

She explained she had grown up in a broken home and ran away when she was 11 years old.

“I didn’t follow the traditional path of going to school. I really knew what I wanted the most in life was family. So I started with my first goal,” she said. Reeder said that going to church and her belief in God and her family formed a good foundation to find a career that she loves.

helped in her job with the water district, particularly in earning respect in a very male-dominated field. She said her education and knowledge paved her path from having male coworkers say, “Go bring some coffee” and instead asking, “Let’s have a coffee together.”

As an elected official, Spiegel said she needed to learn to balance her home life and five children with the job. She said for women to set their priorities. “Those five kids were never my excuse,” she said. “They were my reason” for doing the job. Spiegel was driven to public service due to not wanting to sit around and complain but to “stand up and do something about it.” She said choosing to include her children in her work helped immensely. Her children would attend the meeting to learn about government, service and the job itself. She advised working mothers to include their children in their work if feasible. She advised to constantly check in with oneself and reprioritize as circumstances change. She said don’t go too far in a task so you can switch back when needed. “If it’s not working, fix it!” Her advice as an elected official is, “Don’t criticize. Be honest and do your homework.” She said in regards to compromise, “Pick your battles; don’t do them all.” And not to die on the wrong hill. Sometimes, “You have to hold your nose and do it.” And overall, when confronted with challenges, “Feel the fear and do it anyway.”

journalism to talk to me or someone at our table and we can give you information and see how we can work with you,” Reeder said.

SAFE Family Justice Centers

Stone also moderated the discussion about the SAFE Family Justice Center with Marshall Hamilton, Supervising Family Specialist; Adriana Moreno, chief executive officer; Debra Pearce, family specialist and Diana Portillo and Luz Sotelo, bilingual family specialists.

Hamilton explained the centers serve and protect families who are at risk of abuse or violence. Currently there are four locations in the Inland Empire. He said the centers work with the district attorney and law enforcement to provide a safe place for the victims of abuse. He said the center is currently looking for volunteers who would like to be trained to help those victims and children, in hopes for them to thrive in a trusted and safe environment.

“We really do need volunteers to step in and help with that,” Hamilton said. Types of abuse take on many forms, including physical, mental, financial, and technological via social media and controlled internet and mobile phone use. Their clients can learn how to recognize these abuses in their lives and have someone there to help when needed. The center also monitors helplines for victims in abuse situations with trained operators to assist and provide guidance.

Resiliency Award recipient

The audience was then introduced to Jennifer Turpin who lived in an extremely abusive situation in Perris for many years before her sister Jordan bravely escaped to make an emergency call, resulting in the siblings being freed from the situation. Jennifer has since become a successful young woman in the medical field.

On the stage she said, after her escape, she found herself feeling she knew nothing, having the education level of a young teenager despite being 29 years old. She said she had to learn so much “in the little time I had been out.” The first thing she wanted was an education. “I wanted to learn. I had that passion to learn…I wanted a career.”

“It’s something I am very passionate about. I love community and community news, and love telling people stories in our line of work. We face giants and monsters but also highlight the beauty of community: the great things that are happening, and the people who are doing wonderful things. There is far more good that is going on in our communities,” she said. “But we do have report the news. We do have to watch the government and we have to cover the everyday things that are going on to have an informed electorate.” Reeder expressed journalism’s significant role to inform and touched on the importance of the founding fathers giving Americans free speech protections in the First Amendment.

“It’s awesome to have a career that is badly needed in the community that you can be passionate about and also be profitable. So I would encourage anyone who thinks they might be interested in

She succeeded in getting her GED despite the difficulty with language. Turpin initially entered Riverside Community College, but felt getting a career would take too long, explaining that she had missed so much of her life already, and now as a woman in her 30s, she didn’t have the patience to go to school for years. So instead she found a trade school nearby and looked to do something in the medical assistant program. She became interested in phlebotomy, but knew she would have to draw blood of which she was very afraid. Even though she could not stand the sight of blood in the first few difficult months of school, she was able to overcome it with determination and support from others. She has been a phlebotomy technician for over “two years now and I absolutely love my job.” She said her own initial fear of blood now helps others facing the same difficulty when their blood is being drawn. “I am better able to help them,” she said. She praised a medical doctor who recently died in helping her get her needed externship to finish her job training and start her career. Initially she didn’t want to accept his help because she was determined to achieve success herself, but was grateful that she did eventually accept his help. “I advocated. He connected with the school and I got the ball rolling, even though at first I was headstrong and didn’t want the help,” Turpin said. “Advocating for yourself is very important today. It’s only you… and no one will do it for you.”

With that, she was presented the first “A Day in Her Shoes” resiliency award.

Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com

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

Jennifer Turpin, a victim of decades-long parental abuse along with her 12 siblings that became an international story, speaks at “A Day in Her Shoes” event at Murrieta Hot Springs Resort.

Jennifer Turpin, a victim of parental abuse along with her 12 siblings, speaks about her life today as a phlebotomist during a panel at “A Day in Her Shoes” event.

A Day in Her Shoes event organizers Tammy Wilson, left, CEO of the Oak Grove Center and Lori Stone, Mayor of Murrieta, thank guests for attending the event on International Women’s Day.

Murrieta Fire Department reports final 2023 year activities to Murrieta City Council

Ault

Murrieta fire Chief Bernard Molloy told the Murrieta City Council that the fire department received 11,628 calls for service with 154 actual fire incidents, 528 traffic accidents and 7,877 emergency medical calls in 2023.

The year-end report was given to the council in full session Tuesday, March 5, at Murrieta City Hall. Molloy, following his report on the five city fire station’s activities, received an OK for the fire department to purchase and order a replacement Pierce Type 1 fire engine for $1,168,684 and its equipment for $230,000.

Molloy said once the new engine is ordered, it will take almost four years to build and deliver. In the meantime, the current Type

1 Engine will be maintained and deployed with reserve engines available when needed. The money to buy the new engine will come from Measure T fire department reserve funds.

He said that in the past year of the 71.6% emergency medical aid calls made, 175 were cardiac arrests and 147 were strokes. Murrieta Fire & Rescue was rated one of the best in the state for handling those life threateni ng calls and saving lives. He also said that one of the fire department dispatchers helped a mother deliver her baby during the year because of her first aid and medical training received by all fire personnel.

He announced that the department’s Murrieta Citizens Fire Academy will be reopened in May after years of delay

The council adopted the 2024

Legislative Platform that will keep the council informed of what legislation is being brought before the state Legislature and Congress that might affect the city government in either a positive or negative way.

It gives the council the authority to render their views to the state’s elected officials before its passage or disapproval, seeing how recent unfunded mandated laws have been passed reducing the city’s authority and financial stability.

The council heard the fiscal year 2023-2024 second quarter financial report that showed the city, as expected, slightly below its anticipated revenues and higher expenditures, but still within the budget expectations. The decrease in revenue was expected to come up in the next quarter, as the city’s sales and property taxes are received from the state after a usual two-month

delay. The finance department did request the council approve the appropriation of $83,000 Measure T Facility Repair Reserves for an addition to City Hall. The council gave their approval.

In another action, the council gave their support for southwest Riverside County cities’ efforts to expand public higher education facilities by bringing a four-year university, like California State University San Marcos, to the area. It was mentioned that one floor of the Temecula campus of Mt. San Jacinto College had a 35,000-square-foot floor that could accommodate a university tenant at this time. The council was unanimous in their approval of the effort and will do so in any correspondence with other cities.

A presentation was given about the French Valley Airport and what

PARK from A-1

wildlife conservation. She asked and answered questions about all the animals on display as well as 13-year-old Sally, a common snapping turtle, that she brought out to show. Learn more at www. wildwonders.org. A small shark, stingray, spider conch and other ocean species were an instant hit with the crowd, thanks to Traveling Tidepools, an educational institution based in Temecula. As the sea creatures moved around inside the saltwater-filled glass tank, guests were allowed to reach into the water and touch them.

Captain Shelley Hazen said they do many school visits and community events and even appear at birthday parties. After getting her degree in Marine Biology, Hazen said she has been happy working for the institution for the past six years.

“I like the kids’ reactions to everything,” Hazen said. “I love that they are able to interact with everything, especially the cat shark and Cortez stingray. We have several different species we take out. We also do reptiles and bugs.”

More information is available at www.travelingtidepools.com.

Ruby, a red-tailed hawk, was brought out by Critter Encounters handler/presenter Connor Hoyt and wowed those who gathered around the covered staging area. He has been working with animals for about 10 years and said he loves what he does. Hoyt explained a little about all the animal ambassadors he shared, such as their eating habits, life span, predators and more.

“I get to spend time one-onone with visitors and pass along

it offers to aircraft owners and businesses. It was announced that, while the airport offers 240 hangars and more than 300 tie downs and a landing and takeoff strip for private pilots and private business planes, its authority ends with any inflight aircraft which is controlled by the Federal Aviation Administration. It was also shared that French Valley Airport is considering the construction of a contracted air traffic control tower within the next three years.

City Manager Kim Summers said in her report that she was delighted to see more than 2,000 Murrieta residents drop off their ballots for the Tuesday, March 5, primary election at City Hall. She said the turnout was much better than expected.

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

which is illegal to import.

Sierra Club representatives shared the national grassroots organization’s mission to protect wild places through inclusiveness, solidarity and a community-based approach. They offered tips on how to design a butterfly garden guide using Southern California native plants. More information can be found at www.sierraclub. org/san-gorgonio/santa-margarita/ butterfly-garden-guide

Lauren Niezgodzki, Director and Editor-in Chief for Great Oak Press at Pechanga, talked about the different books available that showcase the local area and culture. Every half hour, a story time was presented by some of their published authors, such as Desiree Wetz.

educational information,” Hoyt said, who often presents for afterschool programs. “I get to pass on my passion.”

Petunia, an opossum, brought giggles and smiles from the crowd with her crossed eyes and crazy ears as Hoyt offered some fun facts about the nocturnal marsupial. He pointed out the value of opossums in controlling pests such as rodents and bugs despite their limited eyesight.

Critter Encounters is a nonprofit wildlife sanctuary that cares for rescued and adopted animal ambassadors. As a live animal education company, it offers private tours of its sanctuary in Ramona and offsite programs to schools, retirement communities, birthday parties and special events. For more information, www.critterencounters.org.

Volunteers from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife Region 6 shared what they do to protect California’s wildlife resources through conservation and e nforcement education. Roland Rodriguez has been a volunteer for about two years after being a fire captain for 30-plus years. He said his team supports the scientific side of things such as helping to keep fish healthy in the wild and conducting surveys of wildlife found in his region, such as bighorn sheep. He is glad there are preserves such as the 20,125-acre San Jacinto Wildlife Area that are set aside and protected from inevitable development. To learn more, please visit https://wildlife.ca.gov/ Volunteering/NRVP.

Nick Molsberry is a Lt. Specialist for the Department of Fish and Wildlife and he was joined by K-9 Officer Scout, an English Springer Spaniel who has been specially trained to sniff out contraband from smugglers and traffickers. The pair do lots of foot patrols near mountains and lakes but also have a specially designed truck with many safety features should Scout have to sit it out while Molsberry explores on his own. Scout was trained by Molsberry with pure source odors so he can identify unique items, such as the Chinese mitten crab,

Brett Mills, District Manager for the San Jacinto Basin Resource Conservation District, was on hand to explain how the group works closely with both private landowners and public agencies to develop alternatives for off-site mitigation needs, if required to protect sensitive habitats. The Quartz Ranch Park project is a perfect example of how the Lennar home builders worked closely with them and the City of Menifee to develop the park that is situated near its new Quartz Ranch housing development. Those interested in forming a habitatwatch group in their neighborhoods are encouraged to contact their local Resource Conservation District, www.sjbrcd.org.

Parks Manager Bryce Howell said the new five-acre park will be monitored by park rangers, just as the other 21 parks are. Amanda Trogdon, a park ranger for the city of Menifee, said her team is responsible for patrolling park trails and open spaces. She enjoys her job because she gets to spend her time in nature.

“One of my jobs is to help others be stewards of the land,” she said. “We have a beautiful park system here in Menifee.”

Before the ribbon cutting, Mayor Bill Zimmerman thanked Lennar for being great partners for this project. “It’s all about quality of life and we know there’s demand for sports and athletics here in Menifee,” he said.

Mayor pro Tem Dean Deines said, “There is not a better sound than to hear kids playing and laughing and having a good time; that’s what Menifee is all about, family and having fun and being a great place to live.”

Councilmember Lesa Sobek thanked all the commissioners who volunteered their time to work with the developers to get all the amenities like the pickleball courts. She encouraged everyone to enjoy the park for many years and to enjoy making family memories there.

Councilmembers Bob Karwin and Ricky Estrada also thanked those involved in providing more parks and open spaces in the community.

Tony

Staff Writer

Visitors to the Quartz Ranch Park in Menifee enjoy learning about sea creatures at the Traveling Tidepools booth. Valley News/Diane A. Rhodes photos

A covered playground is just one of the amenities available at the new Quartz Ranch Park in Menifee.

Ashley Stroh with Wild Wonders wildlife sanctuary introduced snapping turtle Sally to the crowd at the Quartz Ranch Park grand opening, March 2.

Critter Encounters’ Connor Hoyt with red-tailed hawk Ruby, one of the nonprofit’s animal ambassadors.

Sally Myers honored with Brilliance in Action award

Diane A. Rhodes

Special to Valley News

Riverside County Superintendent of Schools Edwin Gomez pres ented the Riverside County State of Education address at the Riverside Convention Center, March 6. This event showcased how students and educators in the county’s 23 school districts are inspiring brilliance, which served as this year’s theme.

The highlight of the event honored community leader Sally Myers with the first-ever Brilliance in Action award. Myers founded her nonprofit Student of the Month program more than 30 years ago in Temecula. She then expanded the program to Murrieta, Lake Elsinore and Menifee/Perris. As other community leaders fell in love with the program, through Sally’s mentorship 13 additional programs were started in Riverside and San Diego counties.

In 1992 Myers was inspired to establish the Student of the Month Program Inc. to honor outstanding high school college-bound

seniors for their character, love of learning and persevering through challenging life circumstances while making a difference in their home, school and community. Her inspiration came from a similar program she attended as a sponsor in Moreno Valley in the late 1980s.

Sally and her husband, Gary, began their hospitality career in 1983 by bringing Sizzler restaurants to Riverside County. Their first Sizzler was the 13th restaurant in Temecula, and they promptly built additional locations in neighboring cities. Today, the Myerses operate 22 restaurants throughout California, including Richie’s Real American Diner in Rancho Cucamonga.

Dr. Gomez introduced Myers at the event by saying, “Brilliance is not attained as a singular event but by a collective effort. And we could not have the impact we have without an entire community of passionate individuals. It takes all of us in this room to advance the brilliance of our students to the forefront, yet there is one person in particular who represents brilliance in action. She is someone

TEMECULA – The city of Temecula announced the official grand opening of the Margarita Recreation Center will be held Saturday, March 23, from 9:30 a.m. to noon. Come explore Temecula’s new intergenerational facility and learn about the exciting programs being offered. Visitors will be treated to demonstrations, children’s activities, giveaways, refreshments and more.

The recreational facility is designed for people of all ages and abilities. It will serve as an intergenerational site that aims to bring innovation, recreation, enrichment, health and wellness, education and more to all its participants. The goal of the community’s new facility is to bring all walks of life together to enjoy a wide range of activities, programs and services that are most important to the quality of life for all our residents.

“The opening of the new Margarita Recreation Center is a mo-

who exudes love, compassion and kindness and she has supported our students for more than three decades.”

A short video of Myers talking about the Student of the Month program’s development was shown. In it, she shared that she has had the opportunity to hear more than 9,000 stories from incredible high school, college bound seniors. Their stories are of victory, some heartwarming and some heart wrenching. Myers said that every story is inspiring and gives joy to her and all the sponsors and attendees at each of the monthly events. She is delighted to say the program runs deep and wide and continues to grow throughout the state. It recognizes and encourages those attributes in students that are good, right, true and honorable, regardless of social-economic status.

She said the program shines a light on students that are truly making a difference and that thanks to program sponsors, more than $900,000 in college scholarships have been awarded to those chosen as Students of the Year.

“When I think about marrying this award with some of my own character, it just means a great deal that the Riverside County Office of Education thought of me for this award,” Myers said. “I’m truly humbled and very grateful for this honor.”

During her acceptance of the award, Myers explained that at her events, she always reads something from one of the books by John Maxwell, who is an acclaimed author and motivational speaker on the subject of leadership. She chose to read what he wrote about the word generosity.

“No person was ever honored for what he received; honor has been the reward for what he gave,” she read, adding, “So thank you for investing in our students and thank you for continuing to give the special gifts that God has given you. May God richly bless you. Thank you.” Gomez thanked Myers again for all her hard work and dedication to

supporting students.

Riverside County Deputy Superintendent of Schools Ruth Pérez described Gomez as someone who works to ensure high quality education that invests in all students while developing and sustaining strong collaborative relationships with education partners. “He leads the fourth largest county office of education in the state, according to student enrollment,” she said.

Gomez began his address to approximately 600 in attendance by saying, “We felt that it was important for us to shine a very powerful light on the positive endeavors unfolding all across the county with our programs and our school districts.”

Each district was highlighted for a unique program or accomplishment. Gomez said the Temecula Valley Unified School District is one of only 900 on the planet that has locations that have been deemed an Apple Distinguished School for its use of innovative technology. They are Abby Reinke and Vail elementary schools.

“Another district shining a light on success through technology is Lake Elsinore Unified School District where middle school students at Lakeland Village School are taking coding classes,” Gomez said.

Alessandro Continuation school, which serves students in grades 11-12 in the Hemet Unified School District, was cited for “blazing a trail towards brilliance” through its first responder career pathway. Various Career Technical programs are offered at many area schools for students who want to go directly into the workforce.

“Providing students with opportunities for work experience is also something the San Jacinto Unified School District does in a variety of ways, including their Workability program,” Gomez said. “Sahid Aguilar, a senior at San Jacinto High School, is not only in the International Baccalaureate program, but he is also dual enrolled at Mt. San Jacinto College, and he is an exceptional Workability student.”

mentous occasion,” Temecula Mayor James “Stew” Stewart said. “We are committed to providing our community with high quality public amenities which ultimately raise the quality of life here in Temecula. I encourage our residents to come to our open house and see everything this facility has to offer.”

The Margarita Recreation Center is located at 29119 Margarita Road. This new facility has a zero depth, warm water, wheelchair accessible six-lane pool; dance/ fitness studio; multipurpose room and a classroom. While visiting the MRC, check out the mosaic mural created by artist Troi Follansbee with the help of local Temecula Elementary School students, parents and faculty For more information about the

The introduction was followed by a short video that showed how this program has allowed Sahid’s light to shine beyond the classroom. The young man has a genetic condition, Freeman Sheldon Syndrome, that affects his muscles. He said, “One message I think everyone should learn is the importance of helping; helping others and receiving help yourself because none of us can go through it alone, whatever we’re going through. And providing help for others creates a community for all of us and I think that makes the world a better place.”

Not surprisingly, Sahid was his high school’s Student of the Month choice in November as part of the program Sally Myers helped Karena Zermeno start in the San Jacinto Valley about 10 years ago.

Gomez said Murrieta Valley Unified School District’s commitment to excellence extends to ensuring that every student enjoys nutritious meals throughout the day. “Their ‘Meet and Eat’ partnership is an impressive program that serves an average of 865 students at no additional cost to their families,” he said.

Menifee Union School District was singled out as one of the districts that has found unique ways to introduce young students to the importance of financial literacy. Gomez said the county is also home to 31 charter schools that consistently provide innovative programs and services to students seeking an alternative to traditional educational environments.

In closing, Gomez said he thinks everyone has learned that brilliance is inspired with a word of encouragement and good instruction with care and compassion. “I believe that the light within our county will continue to shine for our students and we’re hopeful for their continued success.”

To view a video of the event, please visit www.rcoe.us/stateof-education. For more information on the Student of the Month program, feel free to email Sally. Myers@bmwmanagement.com

The Margarita Recreation Center in Temecula is hosting a grand opening and open house.

Sally Myers of Temecula accepts the first ever Brilliance in Action award from Riverside County Superintendent of Schools Edwin Gomez, March 6.

Line dancing instructors Aleigha Elston and Joel Bartlett lead a group of dancers during The Edge Dance Event at

Dancers practice a variety of swing dance moves during The Edge Dance Event at CRC Ranch in Temecula.

Dancers practice many swing dance moves during The Edge Dance Event at CRC Ranch in Temecula.

Classes from beginner to advanced line dancing are offered at The Edge Dance Event.Dancers practice line dancing at The Edge Dance Event at the CRC Ranch in Temecula.

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

CHILDREN’S EVENTS

March 16 – 10 a.m.The Ronald

H. Roberts Temecula Public Library, 30600 Pauba Road, is hosting Little Sprouts Seed Library. Community members are encouraged to visit the Children’s Library Section to pick up a variety of free organic seed packets including melons, carrots, squash, peppers, and more. After selecting their favorite fruit and vegetable seed packets, they can grow at home for families and cook a healthy meal with their children. See TemeculaCA.gov/Library and follow @ TemeculaLibrary on social media for updates.

March 30 – 9 a.m. Easter Egg Hunt at Rancho Bella Vista Park, 31757 Browning St., French Valley, for children 12 and under. One or more Valley-Wide Recreation and Park District park egg hunts to be announced.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

March 15-16 – Valley-Wide

Recreation and Park District Fundraiser with Golf Tournament and other special events to benefit local youth sports programs at district parks sponsored by the San Jacinto Exchange Club and Friends of Valley-Wide Foundation. With a golf tournament Friday at Soboba Springs Golf Course in San Jacinto and an auction and awards dinner

Saturday. Call 951-665-8261 for information and times. $50 for Saturday western theme casual dinner. Visit friendsofvalleywide.org.

March 21 – 5-9 p.m. Murrieta

Downtown Market Nights by Murrieta Downtown Merchants and Property Owners Assn. between Juniper and Washington streets. Many local vendors and businesses participate every first and third Thursday of each month. Memberships and Murrieta vendors welcome $50 to $25. More info, contact DowntownMurrieta@ gmail.com. Location 24810 Wash-

ington Ave. Murrieta.

March 21 – 6-7:30 p.m. The Science of a Solar Eclipse presented by the Temecula Valley Astronomers presentation at the Ronald H. Roberts Temecula Public Library, 30600 Pauba Road, Temecula. Astronomers will explain the coming solar eclipse event. This program is open to all ages. No registration is required, but space is limited.

March 23 – 9 a.m. to noon Menifee Spring Fest at Underwood Park, 28251 Rouse Road, Menifee. Family friendly event with egg hunts, food vendors, bounce houses.

March 23 – 9:30 a.m. Official Grand Opening of the Margarita Recreation Center (MRC) at 29119 Margarita Road. A new intergenerational facility with demonstrations, children’s activities, giveaways, refreshments and more and groundbreaking.

March 23 - 4 p.m. Temecula Valley Symphony Concert “Elgar and Tchaikovsky” at Grace Presbyterian Church, 31143 Nicolas Rd., Temecula. Tickets: $25 for adults, $20 for seniors (60+) and military, $15 for students 25 and under, and free for children 11 years old and under. Tickets can be purchased online at https://www. tix.com/ticket-sales/temeculavalleysymphony/1683/event/1343787 or at the door. Conducted by John Mario Di Costanzo. More info, email tvsinfo@TemeculaValleySymphony.org

March 25 – 6 p.m. Jeffery Harmon will present a talk on Juan Murrieta’s Life at the Little Temecula History Center at the red barn next to Kohls in south Temecula. A no cost presentation, Mr. Harmon will give a comprehensive picture of Juan Murrieta’s life before, during, and after his life in Temecula. Harmon is president of the Murrieta Valley Historical Society. The presentation will also be shown by live stream on the society’s Facebook page and YouTube Channel. Fore more info, email info@temeculavalleyhistoricalsociety.org

March 28 – 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. Art Show at the Hemet Public Library. Join us to celebrate the work

of EXCEED Program participants from the “Art in the Park” sessions. This is a free public event and all are welcome. Hemet Public Library is located at 300 E. Latham St. in Hemet. April 5 – 5-9 p.m. Foodie Fridays, at Mt. San Jacinto College’s Menifee Campus, 28237 La Piedra Road. The event is presented by Made Local, in “flavorship” with the City of Menifee and Mt. San Jacinto College. It is an incubator for small businesses to gauge the community’s interest in their unique offerings. Foodie Fridays often hosts over 60 food vendors.

ONGOING - Saturdays, 8 a.m. to noon. Sun City Farmers Market (Every Saturday) at the Sun City Civic Association at 26850 Sun City Blvd., Sun City. Local vendors and crafts.

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

ONGOING – Line dancing classes are held Wednesdays from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at Lake Elsinore/ Wildomar Elks Lodge, 33700 Mission Trail, in Wildomar across from the Animal Friends of the Valleys. Classes have a DJ with learning levels beginning to intermediate. Have fun and exercise at the same time at $5 per lesson. Contact Joyce Hohenadl at 951-674-2159

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

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

California Department on Aging at 800-510-2020 for help.

ONGOING – The Riverside County COVID-19 Business Assistance Grant Program is accepting online applications for business grants up to $10,000 at www.rivcobizhelp.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 Office of Economic Development at 951955-0493.

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 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.

ONGOING: TVGS Family History Research Assistance Program. Interested in learning more about your family roots? Temecula Valley Genealogical Society offers free research assistance through this volunteer program. Appointments are available in person or via Zoom. Contact the TVGS Family Research Coordinator at tvgs.research.assist@gmail.com for more information.

WORKSHOPS, MEETINGS, NOTICES

March 16 – 9:30 a.m. History program about Menifee Valley’s Wright Family and their 1940’s Rock House. At the AntelopeMenifee Rural Center (Haun Road, just north of Garbani Road) or join live on Facebook. Light refreshments provided. For more info, call 951-708-6842 or visit menifeehistory.com. March 19 – 10:15 a.m. Temecula Valley Republican Women will present “No Farmers No Food: Will You Eat The Bugs?” an Epoch Original documentary exposing the hidden agenda behind global “Green Policies.” Held at the Wilson Creek Winery, 35960 Rancho California Road.,Temecula. Reservations must be in by March 14. More info at info@tvrwomen.org or www.tvrwomen.org.

March 29 – Monthly Temecula Arts Night on the last Friday of each month at The Lot at the Merc, 42051 Main St., Old Town Temecula. Visitors can view a variety of artwork for sale from artists exhibiting in multiple mediums and enjoy live music at The Lot. A free reception is held in The Merc each month for the featured artist where guests can enjoy refreshments while admiring the art gallery. Event is free.

ONGOING – Temecula’s Path of Honor at the Temecula Duck Pond, 28250 Ynez Road. A program to give a place to remember and honor Veterans from the US Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard, and the WWII Merchant Marines who served our country with a permanent paver. Pavers cost $185. Orders may be placed year-round and are consoli-

dated, engraved, and placed on the path annually each November. For more information visit TemeculaCA.gov/Veterans or contact the Temecula Community Services Department at 951-694-6480.

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

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

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

ONGOING – Menifee Community Services offers online driver’s education courses for a $21.95 fee. The course includes animated driving scenarios, instructional videos, sample tests, licensed instructor available to answer questions, DMV-approved certificate of completion with all lectures and exams completed from home. Designed for students and does not include behind-the-wheel instruction or a California driver’s permit. Contact 951-723-3880 or visit the city of Menifee to register at www.cityof menifee.us.

ONGOING – 10-11:30 a.m.

Michelle’s Place Cancer Resource Center and The Elizabeth Hospice host a virtual support meeting for caregivers every second and fourth week of the month via Zoom. Get helpful tips and learn from others who are also dealing with similar challenges. For more information and to register, contact The Elizabeth Hospice Grief Support Services at 833-349-2054.

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

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

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

ONGOING – Menifee Toastmasters meets every Thursday at noon for one hour at a designated place to have fun, enhance speaking capabilities, gain self-confidence and improve social skills. For new dates, call 760-807-1323 or visit www.MenifeeToastmasters.org for more information.

ONGOING – Homeless veterans can receive free help by dialing 877-424-3838 for 24/7 access to the VA’s services for homeless, at-risk veterans. Chat is confidential for veterans and friends. Visit www.va.gov/homeless.

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

March is Riverside County Arts & Culture Month

Diane A. Rhodes

Special to Valley News

The Riverside County Office of Economic Development has declared March as the inaugural Riverside County Arts & Culture Month. The month-long celebration is set to illuminate the diverse and vibrant arts and cultural landscape across the county. Cities and organizations were invited to unite in a coalition dedicated to art, education and enrichment.

In partnership with The Riverside Arts Council, California Desert Arts Council, Corona Art Association, Murrieta Arts Council, the Temecula Valley Art League and Arts Council Menifee, this collaborative initiative aims to bring together communities and celebrate the diverse arts and cultural experiences that make Riverside County a distinctive and enriching community.

Anyone can take part in the festivities by obtaining a commemorative “Exploration Pass” available at any Riverside County Library System branch and designated locations. Each cultural destination is a unique treasure waiting to be discovered. As each location is explored, the pass will be stamped, creating a lasting memento of the experiences. Certain locations will also host special events on specific days, offering attendees the chance to engage in enjoyable activities. It’s important to note that the Exploration Pass is not a free entry ticket to participating locations; instead, it serves as a cherished keepsake designed for year-round use.

Pachia Chongtua, Development Specialist II with the Office of Economic Development in Riverside, said the initiative was developed by Director Suzanne Holland prior to the pandemic.

“Suzanne recognized the importance of arts and culture and how it could help the economic impact through tourism,” Chongtua said. “The goal was to inform Riverside County residents of all the available museums and cultural venues throughout the county. Riverside County Economic Development wanted to recognize the diverse and cultural impact that each city offers to the community. By gathering support from the 28 Riverside County cities, we were able to bring attention to these locations that residents may not know about.”

The office partnered with art councils, Rachael Dzikonski of Riverside Arts Council and Kristin Dolan of California Desert Arts Council to help gather support from museums and cultural centers. Chongtua and Rebeckah Ross planned and implemented the program by working with and gathering support from municipal governments. They also worked with the Riverside County Library Systems to implement the Exploration Pass element.

Of the more than 50 locations that are included in this unique celebration, several are in the southwest region of Riverside County. Menifee offers the Motte Historical Museum and the Menifee History Museum. The latter, at 26301 Garbani Road between Murrieta and Evans Roads, is open most Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. Since opening in 2016, its mission has been “to identify, preserve and promote the historic legacy of the Menifee Valley.”

Menifee Mayor Bill Zimmerman, who is also vice president of the Menifee Valley Historical Association, said, “Menifee is fortunate that unique historical communities help make up the city such as Quail Valley, Romoland and Sun City, each with its own special story. Displays at the museum offer details about those early places and their founders.”

The museum has repurposed a former classroom from the Menifee Elementary School that was taken out of use about 15 years ago. Admission is always free.

“When we heard about the Riverside County Arts & Culture Month program, we were pleased that Arts Council Menifee was being showcased, and saw the opportunity for residents to be made aware of the History Museum where they can see displays that depict life in Menifee over 100 years ago,” Menifee Valley Historical Association President Julie Zimmerman said. “We enjoy sharing about our rich heritage because it gives residents a sense of pride as they learn about early pioneer families that founded our unique neighborhoods and our hometown.”

The museum also hosts special field trips for third grade students and other organizations. To make arrangements, please visit https:// menifeehistory.com.

The Old Town Temecula Community Theater is a contemporary, state-of-the-art proscenium theater in the heart of Old Town and is accessed on Main St. through the historic landmark Mercantile Building from the 1890s. The Merc is a popular entertainment venue.

In the Temecula Valley, there is the Duck Pond & Veterans Memorial, Art League and museum and the Art Mural Project. The City of Temecula, Community Services Department, and the Temecula Valley Museum seek to support emerging artists by providing a space to showcase their craft. Each month or two, student artists will have the opportunity, facilitated by Bigfoot Graphics, to paint a mural on varying topics. For information on how to get involved, call 951694-6450.

Perris has the SoCal Railway Museum and the Lake Perris State Recreation Area. Studio 395 in Lake Elsinore offers a variety of art classes. There are street murals to be explored in San Jacinto

TEMECULA – The city of Temecula is egg-cited to host the annual Easter Egg Hunt Saturday, March 30, at 10 a.m. Egg hunts are taking place simultaneously at three separate locations: Harveston Community Park at 28582 Harveston Drive; Patricia H. Birdsall Sports Park at 32380 Deer Hollow Way and Temeku Hills Park at 31367 La Serena Way.

Residents should arrive between 9-9:30 a.m. to be prepared to spring into action and hunt at 10 a.m. This event is for all children

from infant to 12 years of age, and every park location includes a special needs area. Remember to bring a basket when attending one of the three egg hunt sites. Pop in early to enjoy music and have your picture taken with the Easter Bunny. Visit http:// TemeculaCA.gov/Events to view the layout map with the age zones identified for each park.

For teenagers, the Teen EggStravaganza will be held Friday, March

The Menifee History Museum is just one of more than 50 locations participating in the inaugural Riverside County Arts & Culture Month. Valley News/Courtesy photo

Bill and Julie Zimmerman at the Menifee History Museum which is one of more than 50 locations that can be visited as part of March’s Riverside County Arts & Culture Month.

A portion of a street mural in San Jacinto showcases the talent of artist Alberto Ahumada and his Studio OneXtreme team, who are included in the month-long celebration.

Valley News/Courtesy photo Valley News/Diane A. Rhodes photo

Part of a street mural in San Jacinto that is included in Riverside County Arts & Culture Month celebration. Valley News/Diane A. Rhodes photo

Movie review: ‘Kung Fu Panda 4’

Bob Garver

Special to the Valley News

Since Po (Jack Black), the main character of the “Kung Fu Panda” movies, is known for his corpulent eating habits, it makes sense to compare the animated franchise to a sort of comfort food. These movies aren’t exactly “healthy” choices that send the imagination soaring, but they aren’t “junk” that people outside the target audience are likely to detest. They’re agreeable, but not spectacular.

Fortunately for “Kung Fu Panda 4,” it’s arriving at a time when kids haven’t had a decent movie for a while. Even though it coasts on preexisting goodwill at times, it’s not the painful, phoned-in effort it could have been.

At the start of the movie, Po is basking in his fame as the legendary Dragon Warrior. He does his job well, fulfilling all his duties as protector of his village, but he’s also become complacent, using his standing in the community to endorse the noodle restaurant run by his adoptive goose father Ping (James Hong) and biological panda father Li (Bryan Cranston). His mentor, red panda Master Shifu (Dustin Hoffman) tells him his time as Dragon Warrior is coming to an end and he needs to pick a successor, but all he wants to do is continue to be the Dragon Warrior. And eat, of course, be the Dragon

Warrior and eat.

One day Po catches a fox named Zhen (Awkwafina) stealing artifacts from his temple. He battles her and she holds her own, but ultimately he wins and throws her in prison. But it turns out she may know something about a series of attacks that have been going on in nearby Juniper City. It seems Po’s old nemesis, the snow leopard Tai Lung (Ian McShane) has returned from the Spirit Realm and is seeking to regain power. Zhen knows to put emphasis on the “seems” part, because it’s really shapeshifting villain Chameleon (Viola Davis) plotting to steal power from the entire Spirit Realm. Zhen agrees to help Po in exchange for a lighter sentence, and the two reluctantly set out on a mission to save the village.

I’m not going to pretend that the movie aspires to be anything more than standard “reluctant buddies road trip” fare. As a matter of fact, it’s two “reluctant buddies road trip” movies in one because Ping and Li set out on their own mission soon after Po and Zhen leave. But the Po/Zhen story has all the twists and turns you expect. Of course the too-trusting Po will have hard time navigating the city’s criminal underbelly and need the streetwise Zhen to bail him out. Of course Zhen’s duplicitous nature will get the two of them in trouble (my favorite sequence of the movie sees

Canyon Lake Lodge updates its hours

– noon to 10 p.m.; Saturday – noon to 10 p.m. and Sunday – noon to 8 p.m.

The Sunset Lounge and Terrace will boast a new lunch menu that includes many menu items that are only available during lunch hours, such as the patty melt, classic Reuben and fish sandwich.

open an hour later for dinner

Wednesday through Saturday, while the Sunset Lounge and Terrace will open at noon for lunch in addition to staying open an hour later. Lunch hours on Saturday and Sunday will remain the same.

With the spring time change

Sunday, March 10, the modified hours allow diners to better capture the sunset views that these Lodge venues offer, according to the Canyon Lake POA.

The new hours for the Lighthouse Restaurant include Monday and Tuesday – closed; Wednesday – 4-9 p.m.; Thursday – 4-9 p.m.;

Friday – 4-10 p.m.; Saturday –noon to 10 p.m. and Sunday – noon to 8 p.m.

The new hours for the Sunset Lounge and Terrace include

Monday and Tuesday – closed;

Wednesday – noon to 9 p.m.;

Thursday – noon to 9 p.m.; Friday

In addition to the newly expanded hours, Happy Hour at the Sunset Lounge and Terrace is now from 3-6 p.m. During Happy Hour, customers can enjoy $2 off all appetizers, $6 well drinks, $6 martinis, $6 margaritas, $4 domestic draft beers and $5 imported draft beers.

With the expansion of the new outdoor terrace, there is a full lineup of scheduled entertainment featuring a wide array of local talents. The schedule is available online at http://www.canyonlakelighthouse.com/sunset-entertainment. Entertainment at the Lodge is scheduled to take place outdoors on the Sunset Terrace; however, in the event of inclement weather or other unforeseen circumstances, entertainment may be moved indoors.

Submitted by Canyon Lake Property Owners Association.

Po try to return money stolen by Zhen while simultaneously fighting the victims). Of course Po’s good-heartedness will rub off on Zhen. Of course there’s a secret that makes things complicated. And of course Po will eat everything he can along the way.

But as unambitious as “Kung Fu Panda 4” is in its storytelling, it’s ambitious in its humor. What can I say – the jokes just hit. Black’s energy is infectious as always (he sings a new take on a pop song that might just be more earwormy than the original), and everyone else manages to steal at least a few scenes. The visual gags work too, and it’s hard not to have your heart stolen by some psychotic bunnies. As an overall effort this movie may be just as complacent as Po is in the first act, but the “Kung Fu Panda” franchise knows what brings audiences comfort. The concession stand can handle the food.

Grade: B-

“Kung Fu Panda 4” is rated PG for martial arts action/mild violence, scary images and some mild rude humor. Its running time is 94 minutes. Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@ nyu.edu.

Run through the Vineyard to bring runners to Temecula Valley Wine Country

TEMECULA – The Rotary Club

of Temecula Sunrise announces its 36th annual Run through the Vineyard Saturday, April 27, at the Maurice Car’rie Vineyard and Winery, which has hosted the run for many years. The first Vineyard Run ever in Southern California beginning in 1987, this challenging 2K/5K/10K is run through the rows of the winery’s beautiful vineyards six miles east of Temecula, 34225 Rancho California Road. The event draws hundreds of runners for all classes from all over southern California, from San Diego to Los Angeles and beyond. Registration is limited to the first 800 entrants. The event will take place rain or shine. To sign up for the race, visit https://raceroster.com/82405. Or log on to http://www.temeculasunriserotary.com and click on the link Run through the Vineyard. Team discounts are available. Online registration closes Friday, April 26, at 11:59 p.m. or whenever the race is sold out, whichever comes first. Race day registration opens from 6-7 a.m. Saturday, April 27. Runners may also pick up racing bibs and/or do pre-race day registration a day ahead at The Running Center in Temecula from 4-6 p.m.

Friday, April 26. Race times are: 10K at 7:30 a.m.; 5K at 7:45 a.m. and 2K at 8 a.m. Awards will be given for first, second and third place in each age group for 5K and 10K only, and presentation will begin after the completion of the 5K race. Finisher medals will be given to all walk/run participants, as well as a commemorative T-shirt. Adults will receive a coupon for 2-for-1 wine tasting, to be used on race day from 9:30-11 a.m.

Each year, an art contest is held to choose a design which will be used on the 10K T-shirt and to promote youth art as a service of the Rotary Club of Temecula Sunrise. Contestants are students in ninth through 12th grade only, and the deadline for submission this year was late February.

The nonprofit fundraiser has two major sponsors, Pechanga Resort Casino and Maurice Car’rie Winery, plus many more supporters whose names will be included on the T-shirt. Proceeds from the race are used by the Temecula Sunrise Rotary Club to benefit its many community service projects, vocational and academic scholarships, third grade literacy program at Vail and Temecula elementary schools, youth leadership camps, Chaparral

High School Interact Service Club and many other youth and community programs. The club also provides Safety Town for children ages 5 to 8, to be held in June in Temecula.

“To date, more than $500,000 has been contributed back into our community from the proceeds of this event,” Mark Sitar, president of Temecula Sunrise Rotary, said. Temecula Sunrise Rotary Club holds a breakfast meeting at 7:30 a.m. each Tuesday at Journey’s End at Pechanga, the golf course restaurant. The club welcomes prospective members to attend the meetings, which always feature interesting programs. The club is a member of Rotary International, which is the oldest service organization in the world, having been formed in Chicago in 1905. Rotarians serve their communities and the world.

For information about Rotary or the race, contact race director Myra Allen at 949-433-8612 or myallen5330@gmail.com or cochair Frank Appice at 949-6325667 or frankappice@earthlink.

net

Submitted by Rotary Club of Temecula Sunrise.

Submitted by Riverside County Treasurer-Tax Collector.

City of Murrieta finance department honored with multiple budget awards

MURRIETA - The City of Murrieta is a recipient of three distinguished awards that highlight the importance of transparent and accurate financial reporting. The Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) awarded both the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for the Fiscal Year 2023/24 and 2024/25 Biennial Budget report and the Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for the Fiscal Year 2021/22 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report. In addition, the California Society of Municipal Finance Officers (CSMFO) awarded the City their Capital Budget Excellence Award for the Fiscal Year 2023/24 Capital Improvement Plan and Budget report.

“The awards and certificates represent the highest form of recognition for governmental agencies in

financial reporting and budgeting,” noted Javier Carcamo, who is the City of Murrieta Finance Director. “This is the City’s fifteenth consecutive Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting award and 25th in City history. This is the City’s second consecutive award for the Biennial Budget report. This recognition reflects the commitment of the City Council, management, and finance staff to constant improvement in transparency and financial reporting.”

Biennial Operating Budget Report

These awards recognize the Murrieta Finance Department’s effective efforts to clearly communicate its financial story and motivate constituents and user groups to read the financial reports. It reflects the commitment of the City Council and staff to meeting

the highest principles of governmental budgeting. To receive the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award, the City of Murrieta had to satisfy nationally recognized guidelines for effective budget presentation. These guidelines are designed to assess how well an entity’s budget serves as the following elements:

• A policy document

• A financial plan

• An operations guide

• A communications device

Budget documents must be rated “proficient” in all four categories and in the fourteen mandatory criteria within those categories to receive the award.

Annual Comprehensive Financial Report

Local governments are required to produce and distribute an Annual Comprehensive Financial

Canyon Lake POA employee wins industry award

CANYON LAKE – Harmony McNaughton, public information officer of Canyon Lake Property Owners Association and Clerk of the Board, received the 2024 California Association of Community Managers Innovator Award Thurs day, Feb. 29, at the 2024 CACM Law Seminar & Expo held in Anaheim. The award recognizes a community manager or industry partner who uses their unique resources to kickstart innovation and solve critical issues.

T he 2024 CACM Innovator Award recognized McNaughton for her implementation of a robust orientation and human resources training program for new and returning board members, the creation of an efficient records management program, assisting in the protection of millions of dollars’ worth of common interests and property for the membership and her help in the nearly $1.4 million sale of the Canyon Lake POA’s Fire Station property to the city of Canyon Lake.

McNaughton has exceeded the expectations of the Canyon Lake POA Board and senior management, according to the board.

According to her nomination, “she started at the Canyon Lake POA more than 15 years ago and has since worked up to be a thriving corporate superstar” with exemplary office management skills, negotiation expertise and professionalism. McNaughton has contributed to the organization through public information initiatives, policy writing and records management, the board said.

Valley News/Courtesy photo

McNaughton has proven herself in crisis communications, navigating difficult situations with skill and earning a reputation as a reliable media liaison. She has been critical in improving organizational processes by spearheading administrative projects that helped modernize outdated provisions in the governing documents. Her experience in records management is evident through her shining record in ensuring compliance with governing laws, policy implementation, and management of meeting minutes, resolutions, and agendas.

In addition to her office administration and specialized skill sets, McNaughton supervises corporate office personnel and provides training in record management, employee development, event planning and budget forecasting. She plays a pivotal role at board meetings, providing essential information and insights to support decision-making. McNaughton

is adept in contract negotiation, project management, risk management and vendor management, the board said.

McNaughton’s list of accomplishments includes certifications as a certified manager of community associations and large-scale community association manager, showcasing her dedication to the Canyon Lake POA. Her impact on the Canyon Lake POA and the Canyon Lake community continues to unfold in positive, indelible ways.

“We are proud of the accomplishments made in 2023 and of Harmony for this monumental achievement. It has been a personal goal of mine to support employees through their continued education in the industry. All of which helps us better serve our members.” Eric Kazakoff, general manager of Canyon Lake POA, said..

Submitted by Canyon Lake Property Owners Association.

Report each year to meet generally accepted accounting standards established by the Government Accounting Standards Board. The Annual Report is a thorough and detailed presentation of the City’s financial condition, including financial activity for a fiscal year and its end-of-the-year financial position. The data reported in the Annual Report encompasses all the City’s programs and departments.

The comprehensive document contains three sections:

• Introductory section

• Financial section, including financial statements, an independent auditor’s report, and management’s discussion and analysis

• Statistical section, which includes additional financial, economic, and demographic information

County

Capital Improvement Plan Budget

The Capital Budget Excellence Award recognizes agencies with well-presented budget documents, best practices, processes, and procedures. Submissions undergo rigorous reviews, and the City of Murrieta is proud to have earned this acknowledgment. This is the City’s second consecutive award from CSMFO. Recipients of these awards have pioneered efforts to improve the quality of budgeting and financial reporting and provide an excellent example for other governments throughout North America. To learn more about the City of Murrieta’s Finance Department and to view these reports online, visit the City’s website at www.MurrietaCA.gov/Finance.

Submitted by the City of Murrieta.

to present 7th annual Coachella Valley Business Conference & Economic Forecast in Indio

RIVERSIDE COUNTY – The Riverside County Board of Supervisors and Riverside County Office of Economic Development invited the business community to attend the Coachella Valley Business Conference & Economic Forecast

Thursday, April 18, at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino’s Special Event Center in Indio.

The event starts at 7:30 a.m. with registration, breakfast, networking and exhibitor booths to visit. The main program will take place from 8:30-10:30 a.m., featuring keynote speaker Christopher Thornberg, founding partner of Beacon Economics. A renowned economist with deep expertise in economic and revenue forecasting, regional economics, economic policy and labor and real estate markets, Thornberg has consulted globally for private industry, cities, counties and public agencies. Additional speakers for the conference line-up include Master of Ceremonies Brooke Beare, Emmy-winning journalist; Doug Welmas, chair of Cabazon Band of Cahuilla Indians, and V. Manuel Perez, Fourth District Supervisor of Riverside County.

The Coachella Valley Business Conference & Economic Forecast will provide business professionals with insight and knowledge in learning about current trends, the

health of the region’s economy, as well as the economic outlook for the Coachella Valley. Riverside County is California’s fourth most populous county and encompasses 28 cities, tribal governments and numerous major universities and community colleges. The area is also home to the March Air Reserve Base and the Naval Surface Warfare Center – Corona Division, offering entrepreneurial opportunities with military research, development and technology.

Riverside County has built an ecosystem of Innovation Centers to welcome and attract entrepreneurs and support innovation. There are 10 Innovation Centers to support the entrepreneurial and tech ecosystem in Riverside County, including the Palm Springs iHub & Accelerator Campus, Inland Empire Tech Bridge, the Murrieta Innovation Center, Riverside ExCITE, Southern California Energy Innovation Network and Temecula Valley Entrepreneurs Exchange, among others.

To purchase a ticket and register for the Coachella Valley Business Conference & Economic Forecast, visit http://bit.ly/cvbc2024.

For more information, contact bizinfo@rivco.org or 951-9550493.

Submitted by Riverside County.

Harmony McNaughton, the Canyon Lake Property Owners Association Public Information Officer and Clerk of the Board, wins the 2024 California Association of Community Managers Innovator Award.

Dr. Seuss is on the loose at Soboba Tribal Preschool

Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians Special to the Valley News

The students and teachers at Soboba Tribal Preschool on the Soboba Indian Reservation started off the month of March by celebrating Dr. Seuss Day. They continued the festivities during the week of March 11-15 with special days to salute Dr. Seuss. In between, the school will be hosting its annual Scholastic Book Fair, with many Dr. Seuss titles for sale.

Theodor Seuss Geisel, known as Dr. Seuss, was born Saturday, March 2, 1904, and his first children’s book “And to Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street” was published in 1937. The author and illustrator, a favorite among young readers for his deft use of nonsense words, playful rhymes and unusual characters, was celebrated by Soboba’s young students Friday, March 1.

The preschoolers did crafts centered around “One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish,” which was released in 1960. Pre-kindergarten students listened to a book edited by Dr. Seuss and written by Robert Lopshire called “Put Me In the Zoo” about a polka-dotted leopard who could change its spots. Afterwards they broke into small groups to do crafts. One was to make their own spotted leopard. Another group made Truffula trees out of marshmallows, similar to the ones found in “The Lorax” and the final group colored red and white striped hats just like the one worn by “The Cat in the Hat.”

Kindergarten students were kept busy with many STEM activities that involved mathematics and building. There was a table full of outlines of characters from various Seuss books for the children to color and they had to cut out red and white rectangles of different sizes to create their own hats.

Snacks fit right into the theme as they enjoyed Dr. Seuss juice, Lorax oranges, green Grinch grapes and Cat in the Hat kabobs made with layers of white bananas and red strawberry slices.

For Dr. Seuss Silly Week, the students were asked to participate in various ways. Monday, March 11, was “I Am Not Going to Get Up Today,” and the students were encouraged to wear their pajamas to school. Tuesday celebrated “Fox in Socks,” and the children could wear whatever silly socks they wanted to wear. Wednesday was “Wacky Wednesday,” and students wore mismatched clothes, fixed their hair in a crazy style or expressed themselves in whatever creative way they wanted. Thursday was all things “Cat in the Hat,” and students were encouraged to wear something with stripes or their favorite hat. For “Green Eggs and Ham” Friday, the children could wear something green and enjoy actual green eggs and ham cooked by the school chef during their nutrition break. For more information on the upcoming book fair, visit https:// bookfairs.scholastic.com/content/ fairs/home.html. More on the Soboba Tribal Preschool can be found at https://preschool.soboba-nsn.gov.

Answers for puzzle on page B-2

Kindergartners Tuukut Silvas, left, and Marla Bigsby enjoy sharing a book during Dr. Seuss Day at the Soboba Tribal Preschool, Friday, March 1. Valley News/Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians photos

Kindergarten students are all decked out in Cat in the Hat outfits on the classroom’s bulletin board in celebration of all things Dr. Seuss.

Oranges made to resemble The Lorax are just one of the festive treats that kindergartners enjoyed during Dr. Seuss Day at the Soboba Tribal Preschool.

Loovi Burton shares a craft sample she and her pre-K classmates are working on during Dr. Seuss Day at Soboba Tribal Preschool.

Kindergartners are welcomed to their classroom by one of the most famous Dr. Seuss characters, the Cat in the Hat. The school will continue the celebration of all things Seuss during the week of March 11-15.

Gabriel Herrera, left, and Ignacio Alcala count and stack mini cups during some STEM activity free time in their kindergarten classroom.

After making Thing 1 and Thing 2 hats earlier in the day, kindergarten students cut out red and white rectangles to assemble a striped hat like the one worn by Dr. Suess’ Cat in the Hat character.

San Jacinto Unified unites its support services

Diane A. Rhodes

Special to Valley News

To better serve families in the San Jacinto Unified School District, a centrally located Student, Community and Personnel Support center has been completed. The official grand opening took place with a ribbon cutting on March 6, which included tours of each of the four buildings that total 7,200 sq.ft. Dr. Courtney Hall, a former San Jacinto High School principal, will serve as its executive director.

Hall welcomed those that attended the open house, including Board of Trustees and Cabinet members, families, community partners and district employees.

She said, “From student enrollment and parent classes to health services and attendance support, no matter the location, the SCPS Team is proud to be able to provide support and resources to our educational and community partners.”

She thanked the facilities and operations team for their work with contractors and architects to make this dream a reality. Designs and other initial preparation began about three years ago to improve support services for the approxi-

mately 10,400 students enrolled in the district.

SJUSD Superintendent David Pyle said, “This takes a team and I’m so excited to be able to have this facility open for our families.

If you’re familiar with how student support services looked in the past in San Jacinto, it was really a mishmosh of different offices spread out and really didn’t have that feeling of unity that this facility is going to bring to our community and to our families. To be able to have that one-stop shop for our student services is something that we’ve been looking forward to; it has been a vision of our board of trustees, and we’re excited that it came to fruition.”

He then introduced two SJUSD staff members that have helped to build SCPS to what it is today.

First was the district’s School, Family & Community Liaison Sheila Blythe, who was recently recognized by Black Voices of the Valley, a local nonprofit, with the “It Takes a Village” award.

“For those of you who do not know Sheila, she truly is the epitome of San Jacinto Unified,” Pyle said. “When I first arrived at the district, I fondly remember Sheila as one of the first few people

that I met, and she welcomed me with a big hug. I was so grateful that I felt so welcomed by what you had done, Sheila. And I can only imagine how many families are going to be walking through those gates having that same exact experience of being welcomed to our district because you’re here, so thank you.”

Next to be recognized was SJUSD Facilities Project Manager Barry Mulcock who is retiring this month. Pyle said, “He has done so much for our district and was the lead project manager on this project. He came to us in 2016 after a time with the City of San Jacinto.”

Mulcock’s children went through the SJUSD schools, and he has been responsible for many modernizations done at existing schools such as DeAnza and Park Hill elementary schools and San Jacinto High School.

“Barry’s guidance and leadership is going to be missed but we are excited for him to enter the next chapter of his life in retirement,” Pyle said.

Hall, who said Mulcock has been the go-to person for SCPS staff as they moved into the new location, told him he had one last duty to perform before he left and that was the unveiling of the dedication plaque inside the new Enrollment Center.

“Barry, we are proud to have you permanently as part of the San Jacinto Unified Support Center with your name there,” Hall said.

Hall said one thing that has already proven to be a huge plus is the classroom space within the Family Engagement Center. Previously, parent classes had to be conducted at a school site where they were held to the availability of the space. She said the new location allows for the classes to be more engaging because there are no logistical conflicts so as things organically happen, they can be accommodated.

“Enrollment will be more efficient and there is more confi-

dential space should they need to have conversations about sensitive issues,” Hall said. She said the quad area will be great for holding outdoor parent events such as one to encourage timely enrollment or immunization education and events for foster youth and parent advisory councils. Cinthia Chavez-Torres is the Enrollment Center supervisor and is thrilled with the new offices. She said they were previously located in a portable classroom which was not conducive to offering privacy for families. She said there have been 150 new families enrolling

Temecula Valley students honored in February

The Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce Student of the Month program, recognizing and inspiring academic excellence since the 1992-1993 school year, held its most recent recognition breakfast on Feb. 22 at the Murrieta Sizzler restaurant, 40489 Murrieta Hot Springs Road. Sally A. Myers, founder of the nonprofit organization, welcomed everyone and shared the mission of the local high school recognition program which sets the criteria for the students who are chosen.

College or trade school bound seniors are honored for their character, their love of learning and their willingness to participate in numerous activities such as campus events, athletics and community service as well as how they have persevered through challenging life circumstances. They accomplish all this in a setting that honors God, country, community, family and free enterprise.

Backpacks filled with gifts, certificates of recognition and much 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.

February’s students of the month are Chaparral High School’s David Toschak, Great Oak’s Bradley Morgan, Linfield Christian’s John Lee, Rancho Vista’s Papa Kwesi Ogoe-Anderson, Susan H. Nelson’s Austin Halley and Temecula Valley High School’s Geneva Davisson.

David Toschak

Chaparral High School Assistant Athletic Director Donald Forhane stood in for Principal Tina Miller and said he met David when he came out for the swim team. “He exudes PUMA pride,” he said, adding that David has broken some long-standing swim records, including the butterfly. David said he learned a lot from a book about leadership that his mother gave him called “Wisdom of the Bullfrog,” written by a retired U.S. Navy SEAL. One of the lessons

their children in the district in the past week, confirming that the enrollment department is busy year-round.

The new center, at 1050 N. Ramona Blvd. in San Jacinto, has 21 staff members, but the department supports nine more staff members that also work at school sites when not at the new location. There are 94 parking spaces in the shared parking lot with De Anza Elementary School, making accessibility much easier. For more information, www. sanjacinto.k12.ca.us.

Diane A. Rhodes Special to Valley News

Executive Director Courtney Hall cuts the red ribbon that marks the official grand opening of the San Jacinto Unified School District’s Student, Community and Personnel Support center, March 6. Valley News/Diane A. Rhodes photo

SCPS Executive Director Courtney Hall, left, and SJUSD Superintendent David Pyle congratulate School, Family & Community Liaison Sheila Blythe on recently being recognized by Black Voices of the Valley with the “It Takes a Village” award. Valley News/Diane A. Rhodes photo

SCPS Project Manager Barry Mulcock reacts to seeing his name on the dedication plaque during the March 6 open house for Student Support Services’ new Enrollment Center. Valley News/Diane A. Rhodes photo

A new Enrollment Center is just one of several support services now offered in a central location for San Jacinto Unified School District students and their families. Valley News/Carrie Best courtesy photo

School, Family & Community Liaison Sheila Blythe is set to welcome visitors to her office at the new Student, Community and Personnel Support center in San Jacinto. Valley News/Carrie Best courtesy photo

Recipients of the Temecula Valley Student of the Month award for February are, from left, Geneva Davisson, Bradley Morgan, Austin Halley, Papa Kwesi Ogoe-Anderson, John Lee and David Toschak.

Valley News/John P. Hess photo covered in the book that David feels epitomizes his high school career is: the only easy day was yesterday. “I’ve seen the truth of these words in my academic and

other endeavors and within my school community,” David said.

His AP Government and Politics teacher Aaron Slojkowski praised David for enrolling in a new course

at Chaparral this year, AP Comparative Government. David’s father said his son makes things see TEMECULA, page B-8

Vitamin D could help treat young people with Type 1 Diabetes, improve insulin production

Amie Dahnke

The Epoch Times

A high dose of vitamin D could improve the function of insulinproducing beta cells in children and young adults recently diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes.

The discovery, published in JAMA Network Open, could mean that a more cost-effective way of managing the disease affecting 1.45 million Americans has been on pharmacy shelves all along.

“Type 1 diabetes affects millions of people and treatment options can often be costly,” Dr. Benjamin Nwosu, chief of endocrinology and director of the diabetes center at Cohen Children’s Medical Center and the principal author of the research paper, said in a press release. “It is exciting to know that vitamin D could protect the beta cells of the pancreas and increase the natural production of good and functional insulin in these patients.”

People with Type 1 diabetes do not make enough insulin, the hormone responsible for producing and moving blood sugar into the body’s cells for energy. Without enough insulin, blood sugar can’t get into the cells and stays trapped in the bloodstream, which causes diabetes symptoms. Complications of Type 1 diabetes include heart disease, stroke, circulatory problems, eye issues, nerve damage, kidney disease, and gum disease.

How Vitamin D Helps Manage Type 1 Diabetes Dr. Nwosu and his team uncov-

ered vitamin D’s effects on diabetes by conducting a 12-month trial with 36 youths between the ages of 10 and 21. The average age of the participants was 13. Most of the participants were boys (24).

During the trial, Dr. Nwosu and his team randomly provided the participants with either a dose of ergocalciferol—a form of vitamin D, also known as vitamin D2—or a placebo. The research team found that taking the vitamin D supplement helped the body reduce the proinsulin to C-peptide ratio and delayed the loss of C-peptide more than the placebo. When Cpeptide is present, the body is still producing insulin; in other words, the young people’s bodies made insulin that worked the way it was supposed to work.

Dr. Nwosu said slowing down C-peptide loss and improving the function of insulin-producing cells could extend the “honeymoon phase” of Type 1 diabetes.

The “honeymoon phase” is the critical time of Type 1 diabetes when treatment options determine the long-term outlook of the disease, especially for a young person. Typically, after the honeymoon phase, beta cells, which are located in the pancreas, retain between 30% and 50%of their function, according to Dr. Nwosu’s research. The beta cells can continue to produce insulin for years after the initial diagnosis, which is why prolonging the partial remission phase can help reduce long-term complications of the disease.

Vitamin D Could Benefit Type 1 Diabetics, but More Treatment

Needed

The discovery builds upon Dr. Nwosu’s previous work, which showed that high doses of vitamin D are safe and effective in improving glucose control. Dr. Nwosu’s research has also shown that vitamin D prolongs the remission phase of Type 1 diabetes in children and adolescents.

Dr. Nwosu and his team noted that while vitamin D supplementation could elongate the honeymoon phase, more treatment options are likely necessary for those managing Type 1 diabetes.

“Repurposing commonly used supplements such as vitamin D, which is known to be safe and effective for other ailments, presents an opportunity to continue developing other therapies needed to treat type 1 diabetes,” Dr. Charles Shleien, senior vice president and chair of pediatric services at Northwell Health, said in the press release.

Vitamin D is a readily available supplement that comes in several forms. Ergocalciferol, or vitamin D2, is particularly common and has little to no side effects. Too much vitamin D could cause high calcium levels, which can lead to nausea, vomiting, constipation, unusual tiredness, and potential mental or mood changes, but this only happens with extremely high levels of vitamin D of about 10,000 international units (IUs) per day for an extended period.

Individuals with Type 1 diabetes

Colorectal cancer screenings matter

LAKE ELSINORE – Vista Community Clinic wants to talk about something important –colorectal cancer and life-saving screenings. Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the colon or rectum. It is also known as “colon cancer.” And there are things that can be done to catch it early and even prevent it.

Screenings for colorectal cancer can be simple, and some can be

TEMECULA from page B-7

look easy but works very hard, taking nine AP classes this school year. “His hard work has resulted in opportunities,” he said.

Bradley Morgan Principal Aimee Ricken from Great Oak said of the 3,000 students on campus, Bradley is the kindest. “He’s the MVP of teamwork,” she said. Bradley said he has an internal passion for learning and always wanted to be involved with his community. He is a founding member of the school’s Cybersecurity Club because of his

The

done from the comfort of home. These screenings can possibly catch problems early on, before they turn into something bigger.

When colorectal cancer is caught early, it is easier to treat and to beat. Colon cancer is currently listed as the fourth most common cancer in men and women, and the fourth leading cause of cancerrelated deaths in the United States.

It is important to remember that

Mayors Cyber Cup 2023 competition. This year, Bradley serves as president of Teens Teaching Tech where members provide computational help for senior citizens in the community. He plans to major in mechanical engineering.

Melissa Casady, who is the AP/ TB Coordinator at Great Oak as well as his Theory of Knowledge teacher said Bradley approaches learning with an innate curiosity and a gritty positive spirit. “He’s at the top of his class and he has elevated the learning for everyone due to his energy and curiosity,” Casady said.

John Lee

Linfield Christian High School Principal Carrie Washburn said

colorectal cancer doesn’t always show symptoms at first, making these screenings important for maintaining health. If a clinician catches it early, they can work to stop it in its tracks, but if it goes unnoticed and untreated, it can be life threatening.

A new study shows vitamin D improves the function of insulinproducing cells and extends the ‘honeymoon phase’ of the condition in young people. Valley News/Pexels.com photo or prediabetes need to connect with their physician or health care provider before beginning any new type of medication or supplement.

Copyright 2024 The Epoch

Times. Reprinted with permission. To subscribe, go to: https://subscribe.theepochtimes.com.

and needs. VCC Lake Elsinore Health Center is located at 31361 Riverside Drive and VCC Lake Elsinore Dental and Specialty Care is located at 30195 Fraser Drive. To schedule an appointment, call 844308-5003 or visit http://www.vcc. org to learn about more services.

Submitted by Vista Community Clinic.

VCC has two clinics in Lake Elsinore to assist with medical care

So what can people do to keep themselves healthy and safe? It really comes down to talking to their clinicians about colorectal cancer screenings. They can help people figure out when and how often they should get screened and which type of screening is right for them. The clinicians at VCC are available to all members of the community to support their health journey with several locations and convenient evening and weekend hours.

John does the school’s announcements and is involved with ASB and plays lacrosse. He shared one of the obstacles he faced being an international student. “When I first entered Linfield as a freshman, I had a fear I’d be rejected,” John said. “I chose to push myself and reveal myself to others and show them who I am by being supportive, humorous and encouraging.” He said the more he interacted with his peers, he realized that the obstacle had not been his culture or language. “My biggest obstacle was myself, for holding the incorrect belief that being international and different was bad and wouldn’t be accepted,” John said. “I stepped forward and introduced my Korean cuisine and Korean holidays to my school community and the more I shared my culture with my community, I realized I wasn’t just sharing culture, but I was also offering unique and memorable experiences people never had before which later became my passion.” He plans to major in hospitality and said he hopes to help other international students. “Treat your differences as a tool and not as an obstacle that will isolate you from others,” he said.

Papa Kwesi Ogoe-Anderson

Principal David Schlottman of Rancho Vista High School said Papa, who came here from Ghana in eighth grade, is a straight A student who is very active in ASB and is a student representative at school board meetings because he wants to help the school. Papa said it was a challenge to meet new people when he enrolled at Rancho Vista but joining ASB helped. “I’m an introvert but not shy to express

what I think,” he said. He plans to study psychology in college as he thinks it is a great subject that will help him understand people better. STEM teacher Lori Fuijoka said Papa was voted as Student of the month for February by the entire staff, unanimously. “He’s a great student who is kind and inquisitive,” she said. Papa creates and edits the school’s announcements. Being the first generation in his family to attend college, he plans to follow in his father’s footsteps and join the United States Navy after he earns his college degree.

Austin Halley Schlottman, who is also principal of Susan H. Nelson High School, said Austin is a go-getter and that the learning format at the school has allowed him time to work on his many interests while being an excellent student. Austin said two of his best qualities are pushing himself through anything and seeking out the hardest possible challenges. “Overcoming obstacles is a shared human experience and today I’d like to share some of the hurdles I’ve faced in my own life,” he said. At the age of 12, he leaped into the world of stock market trading. “It was there that I discovered my passion for finances and the intricacies of the U.S. economy,” Austin said. “Despite inevitable bumps along the way, I found success in my first year and have continued to grow my investment portfolio ever since.” Another accomplishment he is proud of is that at age 14 he was competing in Fortnite gaming tournaments and consistently placing in the top ranks among millions of other players around

the world. “Now at the age of 18, I find myself balancing working for my father, pursuing game development, investing, and building a following on my streaming platform while also trying to graduate early with the credits I have amassed,” Austin said.

Geneva Davisson

Temecula Valley High School Principal Donna Lione introduced Geneva as a well-rounded student who participates in marching band, water polo, swim team and has explored every single CTE pathway offered. She asked Geneva to provide three adjectives her friends would use to describe her, and they are unselfish, caring and smart. The advice she would give to incoming freshmen would be to explore and not settle for one thing because you can change your mind and also to try to connect with everyone. As president of the American Sign Language Honor Society, Geneva said that for as long as she can remember, she struggled with central auditory processing disorder and Irlen Syndrome. “This affects my ability to process information and it causes discomfort in the brain and eyes,” she said. Her current plans are to attend Mt. San Jacinto College for her associate’s and diagnostic medical sonography degree. Her ASL teacher Stevie Collins said Geneva never lets any challenge show her down and that she positively influences everyone she encounters.

For more information, please contact Program Chair Amber Poncy at 951-676-5090 or http:// temecula.org/student-of-themonth.

Southwestern League baseball teams heating up; Great Oak looks to be the team to beat

JP Raineri Sports Editor

The echoes of a somewhat quick winter season have faded, and with them, basketballs and soccer cleats have been exchanged for the timeless allure of ball diamonds, as well as the cheers from fans that follow a variety of other spring sports.

Looking at prep baseball in our area, the Southwestern League usually boasts the most overall talent, but a new layout of games will bring about some challenges.

Finally, after 20 years, the league has gone to a 3-game format during the week, so now the challenge for coaches will surround how to manage their pitching staffs. This approach mimics a true next level schedule and will be more like a strategic game of chess. With teams starting their series on Monday and ending on Thursday, a starting pitcher’s rest period will matter now more than ever.

Currently, the early season standings reflect a collective strength among the teams, with none having lost more than a

single game leading up to the start of this past week. Murrieta Mesa (7-0) leads the charge with an undefeated record, the Wolfpack fell in a Saturday game to San Juan Hills, but looking at the stats, the question hanging in the diamonddusted air is straightforward – Is Great Oak (7-1) the giant among the contenders? It’s not only about how these teams start but how they adapt, endure, and possibly, outrun the marathon towards the postseason.

Great Oak appears the most formidable on paper, thanks to a couple of their nationally ranked players and an emerging coaching philosophy, but in a league swarming with talent and the unpredictability of sport lurking, it’s anyone’s game.

Amidst the league’s talent pool, coaching transitions in the league are making waves, especially for Great Oak’s TJ Salinas, who has recently taken the helm. Salinas is inheriting a legacy from Eric Morton, and a first-class baseball knowledge that came with a brief showing from former MLB player Tony Tarasco last season, as well

as the insights from his six-year tenure within the program. Salinas’ connection with the players and his vision for a winning culture could be the foundational stones for a compelling season.

Salinas speaks with gratitude and deference to his coaching mentors, stating, “I will forever be indebted to him [Coach Morton] for helping me develop into the coach I am today.” Such homage to experience (and the promise of continuity with returning staff) suggests a seamless transition, potentially leading to the quick establishment of a successful team culture.

“The relationship that has been established between the players and I should help and with Ryan, Wally, Tony, and Kevin returning to coach, the players will have a lot of familiar faces to help bridge the gap as we move forward.” Being branded the team to beat is a flattering nod to past achievements, but as Coach Salinas and his contemporaries know, each game is a fresh seven innings where past

achievements are just that – past Ranked No. 21 in the latest LA Times poll, and cracking the PBR National rankings at No. 23, Great Oak flaunts commendable firepower in its roster with key players to watch. That list includes top-ranked junior Reagan Ricken, who has an arm destined for LSU with roots tracing back to the New York Yankees; The Fien Brothers, both top-ranked: Dylan, with UCLA in his sights, and Gavin, a USA Baseball alumnus headed for Texas, both carry a family legacy as rich as the dirt on the diamond. University of Hawaii bound Kaysen Raineri, who has sat down 25 batters so far this season, and freshman Roy Kim (13 K’s) should fill any voids in the pitching rotation for the Wolfpack. This season Great Oak will compete in the Division 2 post season brackets, if all goes accordingly, and are ranked No. 6 in the current CIF coaches’ polls.

Breathing down Great Oaks’ neck, ranked No. 22 in the recent LA Times poll, stands

Vista Murrieta (4-2; Division 1; Ranked in the Top 15 of the current CIF coaches’ polls). While the Broncos’ preseason strength of schedule far surpasses that of those ahead of them in the current standings, this squad isn’t lacking in star quality. Vaughn Neckar, a junior that is also committed to LSU, is an alumnus of USA Baseball’s 18U National team, and brings heat to the hill every time he’s on it.

Other key players include Kardiff Black, a sophomore sensation proving himself with a hot bat, DC Ruth (a University of San Diego commit) and Ryland Duson, who are both painting a hopeful future for the Broncos. With an entire spread of promising and committed players that decorate the rest of the league, here are some players to watch:

The revival of excellence: POD Basketball’s grand return

see BASEBALL, page C-2

woven by their mentor – Coach Derrick. These athletes, shaped through gritty competition and an unyielding will to improve, have not only been imparted with Coach Derrick’s perspicacious basketball acumen but his ethos

see POD, page C-3

Murrieta Mesa (Division 5; Ranked No. 5 in the current CIF coaches’ polls) – While the Rams don’t necessarily have top-ranked from his tutelage to collegiate triumphs. The roster of distinguished names speaks volumes of his impact: Sydney Moran (‘19, Linfield), Nazrin Urel (‘16, Vista Murrieta), Gabby Stoll (‘18, Vista Murrieta), to name just a few, all share the common thread

Great Oak’s new head coach, TJ Salinas (right), has been with Great Oak for six years as the former freshman head coach, and JV head coach. Valley News/File photo

Great Oak senior, Gavin Fien, is ranked as one of the top catching prospects in California. Valley News/Time Stood Still Photography

JP Raineri Sports Editor

With the winter high school season gone, and the echoes of sneakers against the hardwood still resonant in our collective memory, Prospects On Deck (POD) has initiated a stirring resurgence in the community. It is with electrifying enthusiasm for basketball fans that POD Basketball recently announced that they are back, heralding a new era for talented players across the Inland Empire. Coaching aficionado and architect of success, CIF championship Coach Derrick O’Neil, is the beacon guiding this

revival. Coach O’Neil, lauded for leading the Linfield Christian girls basketball team to its maiden championship victory in 2019, boasts an illustrious resume that extends well beyond the reaches of the game. The accolades amassed under his tenure from 2015 to 2024 are nothing short of inspiring, with over 40 student-athletes leaping

With Coach Derrick O’Neil at the helm, Prospects On Deck is reigniting the community’s passion for basketball in the Inland Empire. Valley News/File photos

Guided by the visionary CIF champion Coach Derrick O’Neil, Prospects On Deck (POD) brings back the thrill to the Inland Empire, powering a new era of basketball excellence.

CIF Southern Section spring sports polls, highlights, and updates

JP Raineri Sports Editor

The skies above Southern California may have been grim for sports with rain last week, but that did nothing to dampen the vibrant spirit of high school sports in our local area. The CIF Southern Section athletes and coaches carried on, marking notable standings in the latest polls, and looking ahead to promising encounters on the fields and gymnasiums around the area. Quite a few local teams have blazed a trail through the CIFSS polls, displaying a relentless pursuit of victory.

In the arena of prep baseball, Vista Murrieta has made an impressive jump into the Top 15 in Division 1, demonstrating their preseason proficiency on the diamond. Not far behind,

AnzA

in Division 2, Paloma Valley and Great Oak secure the No. 5 and No. 6 spots, respectively. Chaparral’s dedication has earned them a No. 9 spot in Division 3, while Tahquitz also graces the Top 15. Murrieta Valley holds a commendable position at No. 2 in Division 4, further cementing their dominance.

Other notable mentions include

Murrieta Mesa coming in at No. 5 in Division 5, along with Lakeside at No. 9, Orange Vista is No. 4 in Division 6, Cornerstone Christian is No. 7 in Division 7 while

Rancho Christian cracked the Top 15 in the same division. No local teams were in the Division 8 polls.

On the softball circuit, Murrieta Mesa stands tall at No. 5 in Division 1 with Great Oak clinching No. 9.

Temescal Canyon stands in at No. 6 in Division 2, while Liberty’s team takes a strong stance at No. 4 in Division 5. In Division 6,

Tahquitz and Santa Rosa Academy carve their niches at No. 7 and No. 14, respectively. No local teams were reported in Division 7 while

Temecula Prep came in at No. 7 in the bed rock of Division 8.

Transitioning our gaze to the field of lacrosse, while local boys’ teams have yet to make their mark in CIF-SS polls, the girls have battled their way into recognition.

Murrieta Mesa secures the No. 10 rank in Division 1 and 2, with Murrieta Valley at No. 3 and Temecula Valley following closely at No. 4 in Division 3.

The finesse and agility of boys’ tennis cannot go unnoticed - Great Oak boasts the No. 8 position in Division 1 while Murrieta Valley stands strong at No. 6 in Division

BASEBALL from page C-1

players, their lefty artillery on the mound is backed up with an offense led by SDSU commit CJ Moran. As the Rams chase excellence with an unblemished record thus far, their lefties have done an excellent job at keeping teams at bay early in the season, although with no stats on MaxPreps, it’s hard to say who the players to watch are.

Chaparral (6-1; Division 3; Ranked No. 9 in the current CIF coaches’ polls) – The Pumas will be displaying high velocity with their ace Braylon Doughty, who brings along a gallery of MLB scouts to every outing. The Oklahoma State commit tops the radar gun in the upper 90’s at times and is primed for the 2024 MLB Amateur Draft in July, assuming he stays healthy. Brady Pavlosky is another top hurler for Chaparral, the senior is committed to San Jose State next season while Kayden Winfrey, Masaki Brey, Chase Blackwell, and Darin Osterloh are all putting up offense numbers worth noting.

Murrieta Valley (6-1; Division 4; Ranked No. 2 in the current CIF coaches’ polls) – The Nighthawks are another team that might not have much in the top-ranked player department, but former Division 1 championship coach Bryn Wade, who won it all with Murrieta Mesa in 2016, has this scrappy team built for combat. A unique face to this year’s lineup includes one highly recruited quarterback in Bear Bachmeier, who is hitting over .500 this season so far. Other standout players to watch include Jesiah Generoso, Rainn McMillan, and Jacob Loving. As for which pitchers to focus on, it’s still too early to gauge who their top performers will be.

Finally, Temecula Valley (21-1) has a promising lineup with Logan Long and Cody Liscio being names to watch when they take the mound for the Golden Bears. While Temecula Valley has no current college commits that have been announced out of their senior class just yet, offensively some names to look for include Conner Christie and Will Bandel, who seem to be leading the way with their sticks. Could any of these teams be a David to Great Oak’s Goliath? Can Vista Murrieta win a third straight title? Or, will another team rise to the occasion when the Southwestern League dogfights get under way next week? Only the play on the fields will ink the definitive story. Week one matchups, starting March 18, include Great Oak vs. Murrieta

3, a testament to their meticulous training and tactical precision.

Looking forward toward the diamond, we anticipate electrifying face-offs. Prep softball fans are particularly encouraged to mark their calendars for Thursday, March 14, as they could be witnesses to a thrilling encounter where Great Oak hosts Murrieta Mesa at the golden hour of 3:15 p.m. For baseball enthusiasts, the undefeated Paloma Valley Wildcats plan to demonstrate their unyielding grit in who have backto-back day games Friday and Saturday against Heritage and JW North. Game times are 3:15 p.m. and 10 a.m. Honoring the Legacy of Ray Plutko

With heavy hearts, we take a moment to honor the memory of Ray Plutko, the distinguished fifth commissioner of the CIF-SS who died at the age of 85 last week. His extraordinary leadership spanned from 1980 until 1986, guiding one of the nation’s most esteemed

high school sports organizations through its formative years and leaving an indelible imprint on its legacy. His lifelong dedication to school sports underscores a chapter of passion that continued well into retirement, enriching the community with his profound expertise in basketball.

To find out the latest polls, which will be released prior to this article going to print, or for more CIF Southern Section updates, visit www.cifss.org.

Valley, Murrieta Mesa vs. Chaparral, and Vista Murrieta vs. Temecula Valley. So, get the popcorn ready as the season’s script is still being written. Send sports updates by email to sports@reedermedia.com

Great Oak’s Josephine Burke pictured here as the Wolfpack comes in at No. 9 in the Division 1 CIF Southern Section polls last week. Valley News/Time Stood Still Photography

Vista Murrieta shortstop, DC Ruth, is a University of San Diego commit hoping to keep the Broncos in the running for a third straight Southwestern League title. Valley News/David Canales photo

Murrieta Valley’s Rainn McMillan hopes to help the Nighthawks contend for a Southwestern League title this season. Valley News/David Canales photo

Murrieta Mesa’s artillery of lefthanded pitchers have helped them jump out to an undefeated start as Southwestern League play gets set to start on March 18.

Valley News/File photo

Linfield Christian roars past Rancho Christian, Santa Rosa in weekend doubleheader

JP Raineri Sports Editor

TEMECULA – The Linfield Christian Lions demonstrated exceptional prowess on the baseball diamond this past Saturday, clinching a decisive 11-3 victory over the Rancho Christian Eagles in a gripping nonconference encounter in Temecula.

From the onset, the Lions established dominance, leveraging the remarkable pitching skills of starter DJ Kerr and the explosive power of catcher Drew Taylor, who blasted a 2-run homer that propelled the team forward.

Despite the challenging opposition, sophomore Braden Williams of the Rancho Christian Eagles displayed his talent, impressively going 3 for 3 at the plate and crossing the plate twice himself. Teammates Cylis Proffitt, AJ Garza, and Dylan Cookson all contributed to the scoreboard by driving in runs, demonstrating the Eagles’ determination and resilience.

The victory was a crucial morale booster for Linfield Christian, improving their overall record to 6-5 and offering some solace

JP Raineri Sports Editor

In an eye-catching display of sports philanthropy, Friends of Golf (FOG), in collaboration with the chic sportswear brand G/FORE, recently set the stage to outfit young athletes with some slick new gear. 2,000 pairs of cuttingedge golf shoes were delivered early last month to their eager new owners, transforming the greens with style and sustainability.

The wave of generosity first washed over the astroturf at the Birmingham Community Charter High School in Lake Balboa. Student athletes had their game upped considerably as they laid their hands on G/FORE’s finest. The partnership continued its purposeful stride, extending from Orange to the stretches of San Luis

for their 0-2

the Ambassador League. In contrast, Rancho Christian’s defeat brought them to a 2-5

standing, though they maintain a balanced 1-1 in the Inland Valley League. The day’s baseball festivities didn’t end there for Linfield Christian, who continued their winning streak into the afternoon.

In a powerful display of skill and teamwork, they also triumphed

Obispo County Saturday, Feb. 3.

CIF Southern Section Commissioner of Athletics, Mike West, isn’t shy to share his gratitude, “The relationship we’ve cultivated with Friends of Golf over the years is priceless. They’ve been instrumental in nurturing the love for golf in numerous communities by supporting thousands of athletes. This initiative is a testament to their unyielding dedication to the sport.”

In what might just be their most audacious move yet, FOG and G/ FORE doled out these shoes gratis, making quite the statement about investing in the future of the sport. The fairway to opportunity has never looked more stylish.

Founded in 1979, FOG has swung its way to over $10 million in donations to golfer-focused

JP Raineri Sports Editor

Calling all Temecula families and health enthusiasts! Are you ready to sprint toward an amazing offer that’s set to score big this week? Pink Poke is thrilled to join forces with Dynamic Fitness HPK and Athletes NIL to bring you an event that’s all about community spirit and mouthwatering goodness. It’s a grand slam of flavor and value, but act quick as this only lasts for one week, March 11-16 Gear up for this promotion where customers can buy one exquisite poke bowl and get another on the house—yes, it’s a BOGO deal that knocks it right out of the park! Poke bowls are marvels of culinary finesse, inspired by the Hawaiian tradition, and tailored to fuel both athletes and fans alike. Each bowl is a harmonious blend of premium rice, fresh vegetables, and succulent raw fish, artfully

organizations, advocating for integrity and camaraderie in the game. Their mission is crystalclear: guide youth through their golfing ventures, from grade school to college, regardless of their wallets’ weight.

Cultivated by the seasoned fashion creator Mossimo Giannulli, G/FORE takes a swing at blending sophistication with a genuine adoration for golf. Bringing a little extra oomph onto the greens, they stand apart with their intricate eye for detail and fresh, lively spirit.

The titan of high school athletics, CIF-SS holds the reins to sports in Southern California. Its rich legacy, dating back to 1913, encompasses a diverse range of schools and districts. With over 560 members, they’re not just big; they’re colossal, steering the sports saga for a range of varsity sports,

seasoned with oils and flavors that dance in your mouth.

Former 2015 Chaparral graduate and Atlantic League professional baseball player Gavin Johns endorses this flavor fiesta with genuine enthusiasm, “This is a fantastic chance to back a hometown business while enjoying some top-notch fare. I mean, come on, who isn’t a fan of a good poke bowl?”

Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to connect with local families and fellow sports aficionados and contribute to a small business where you can grab healthy food close to home. The doors are wide open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. where they will welcome you with open arms at 27315 Jefferson Ave. in Temecula, on the corner near the Winchester intersection.

Rally behind many of the area’s top local athletes, and indulge in a delicious, nutrition-packed meal

Linfield centerfielder Gavin Malcomson comes up just short of making a diving catch off the bat of a Rancho Christian hitter.

Linfield Christian senior DJ Kerr picks up the win for the Lions Saturday, March 9, in Temecula.

Linfield catcher Drew Taylor watches the ball leave the yard as he connects for a 2-run homerun in the fourth inning against Rancho Christian.

Despite their loss, Rancho Christian’s Dylan Cookson allows no runs in his appearance for the Eagles Saturday, March 9, in Temecula.

Valley News/David Canales photo

Valley News/David Canales photo

Valley News/David Canales photo

Valley News/David Canales

WPATH report shows failure to prioritize long-term outcomes

Julie Reeder

Publisher

Mia Hughes, a researcher at Environmental Progress, has released a 250-page report following the revelation of leaked files from the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH). It appears a seismic shift in the perception of “gender-affirming care” is imminent.

The documents, now publicized by the think tank Environmental Progress, cast a long shadow over what has been considered progressive and compassionate healthcare for transgender individuals, including children. These files are rife with discussions of improvisational treatments and point out a glaring absence of informed consent, challenging the

very foundation of ethical medical practice.

It appears that “gender-affirming” care is more influenced by activism, culture, and political correctness than by science.

At the heart of this controversy is the acknowledgment by WPATH members that the ramifications of gender-affirming treatments, especially for minors, are not fully comprehensible to the patients and, in many instances, their parents. This revelation not only undermines the principle of informed consent but also raises profound ethical questions about the treatment of vulnerable populations in the realm of gender medicine.

The case examples cited, ranging from minors undergoing lifealtering surgeries to individuals with significant mental health challenges receiving hormonal treatments without adequate oversight, are particularly alarming. They suggest a systemic failure to prioritize the well-being and long-term health outcomes of patients.

The discussions around procedures such as “nullification” (cutting off perfectly good body parts) and other extreme modifications further push the boundaries of medical ethics, venturing into territories that seem more experimental than therapeutic. Many patients are left infertile and

many don’t experience normal sexual function.

Women who have mastectomies as teenagers or young people and later in life decide to give birth, are unable to breast-feed their babies. The other possible long-term medical issues, such as recurring infections, tumors, and death are typically not disclosed ahead of time with the patient.

Hughes draws comparisons between current practices in transgender medicine and historical medical scandals, such as the acceptance of lobotomies and ovariectomies, the latter of which were performed to ‘cure’ what was once referred to as ‘female hysteria’.

She also compares it to a time when doctors would give hormone treatments to girls who were growing “too tall” or boys who were “too short.” These parallels draw attention to a disturbing pattern of medical interventions carried out without solid grounding in evidence-based medicine, and many times without informed consent.

The treatments caused permanent or long-term damage and were eventually seen as a violation of the person’s rights. The long-term consequences were only fully appreciated in retrospect.

Hughes believes this period of gender transitioning medicine,

which has rocketed into a hugely profitable sector of “medicine,” will be seen as one of the darkest periods in our medical history.

The WPATH Files could very well represent a moment of reckoning for the field of gender medicine, prompting a reevaluation of practices and ethical standards.

The response – or lack thereof – from the individuals named in the leaks, coupled with the internal discussions within WPATH’s forums, reveals a community at a crossroads. On one hand, they have a steadfast belief in the importance of gender-affirming care; on the other hand, a growing realization of the need for rigorous scientific scrutiny and ethical responsibility.

Journalist and best selling author Michael Shellenberger wrote, “Advocates of gender-affirming care say it’s evidence-based. But now, newly released internal files from the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) prove that the practice of transgender medicine is neither scientific nor medical.

“The American Medical Association, The Endocrine Society, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and thousands of doctors worldwide rely on WPATH. It is considered the leading global authority on gender medicine. And yet WPATH’s internal files, which

include written discussions and a video, reveal that its members know they are creating victims and not getting ‘informed consent.’

“Victims include a 10-year-old girl, a 13-year-old developmentally delayed adolescent, and individuals suffering from schizophrenia and other serious mental illnesses. The injuries described in the WPATH Files include sterilization, loss of sexual function, liver tumors, and death.

“WPATH members indicate repeatedly that they know that many children and their parents don’t understand the effects that puberty blockers, hormones, and surgeries will have on their bodies. And yet, they continue to perform and advocate for gender medicine.

“The WPATH Files prove that gender medicine is comprised of unregulated and pseudoscientific experiments on children, adolescents, and vulnerable adults. It will go down as one of the worst medical scandals in history.”

The raw files have been published in a report called “The WPATH Files: Pseudoscientific surgical and hormonal experiments on children, adolescents, and vulnerable adults”, which contains analysis by Hughes that puts the WPATH Files in the context of the best available science on gender distress, https://t.co/ yZBjyvKA8B,

NAACP Branch 1034 opposes Perris Union High School board’s vote to eliminate programs

NAACP Branch 1034 stands with local parents, students and teachers in opposition to the recent Perris Union High School board vote to eliminate Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and mental health programs.

On March 5, NAACP Branch 1034 President Myles Ross and Branch Treasurer Mary Venerable were present at the Perris Union High School board meeting and spoke of the need to keep these programs for the benefit of the students.

In a school district whose student body is overwhelmingly BIPOC, removing successful programs will adversely affect students of color. These programs are significant to the well-being of students and have been able to reduce school suspensions, among other benefits.

To cut programming and staff positions which are succeeding is wrong and does not consider the needs of the students or the teachers who serve them.

Numerous supportive positions will be cut including the director

of DEI programs who was also pursuing grant funds to continue the services that Covid-funding provided. With the elimination of these positions (which are largely staffed by People of Color), there will be a greater burden on school counselors and teachers to meet the DEI and mental health needs of students.

“The Perris Union High School District by cutting the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion program are, in a sense, engaging in academic apartheid,” said Myles Ross,

President NAACP Branch 1034, Southwest Riverside County.

The NAACP Branch 1034 has been in operation locally since 1977, originating in Lake Elsinore, and now represents the communities of Lake Elsinore, Murrieta, Temecula, Corona, Canyon Lake, Perris, Norco, Wildomar, and Menifee.

The mission of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) is to achieve equity, political rights, and social inclusion by advancing

policies and practices that expand human and civil rights, eliminate discrimination, and accelerate the well-being, education, and economic security of Black people and all persons of color.

For more information on Branch meetings, activities and membership, visit the Branch 1034 website: https://www. naacpbranch1034.org.

Submitted by NAACP: Branch 1034 Lake Elsinore/Southwest Riverside County

Forays into friendship lead trio to “The Old Man & the Queer” book

Tim O’Leary

Writer

This is a story about friendships and how vastly different lives can drift together, apart and then back again.

I have but a bit part in this tale, a mere fly on a wall covered by a colorful tapestry. I am blessed to write about the people who carve paths through our shared places.

Jeff Comerchero is at the core of this chronicle. Alongside him is E.J. Radford, a lifelong Temecula resident who has quietly, but boldly, broken barriers in a unique transition from a “she” to a “they.”

So now, kind readers, may I introduce you to their forthcoming book titled: “The Old Man & the Queer – The transformative story of a retired mayor and the barber who freed him from bigotry.”

Jeff is the old man. E.J., or Eli, as they has become known, is the queer.

Let me begin with Jeff. He is a descendant of Jewish Holocaust survivors who grew up poor as he was raised by a single mother. He survived the Vietnam War, worked a series of odd jobs, became the “boy wonder of the toy industry,” and then accomplished great deeds amid a meteoric rise in the worlds of business and regional government.

I watched and wrote as Jeff served Temecula as the fast-growing community coalesced into a city and evolved into one of Southern California’s shining stars. I watched with awe as Jeff was named to the parks commission, elected to the City Council, repeatedly served as mayor, and played a key role as massive developments took shape and crucial public infrastructure projects were built.

Along the way, he crisscrossed the globe in such professional and political roles as CEO, consultant, aide to a county supervisor, investor and nonprofit chairman.

His wife, Pat, is an accomplished visionary who helped create, and still guides, Temecula’s awardwinning children’s museum, Pennypickles Workshop.

Jeff and I would often cross paths at government and political functions. We formed a mutual respect for each other. Then I became a member of the club nobody wants to join – that of being a spousal caregiver for someone with a disease. In my case, the disease was dementia.

I spent nearly a decade caring for my sweet Margaret, whose decline from dementia forced her to leave our beloved nest. My spouse of nearly 22 years now lives in a care facility near Boston, close to her son and his extended family. Her departure allowed me to reunite with my first love – writing. As it turns out, Jeff and Eli have been toying with my mistress.

Jeff, 77, served a total of 25 years in various government roles. Eli, who is 25, stayed out of the public eye while growing up in Temecula and spending short stints in Hawaii and San Diego. Given the name Elizabeth at birth, Eli is now taking testosterone and transitioning to male. Eli is a barber who lives with Faith and is a step-parent to her child. Jeff and Eli first crossed

paths when the retired mayor got a haircut at a new shop in town and wondered to himself whether the other cutter was a man or a woman. In addition to being puzzled, Jeff was aghast at the other barber’s tattoos and body piercings.

Feeling convicted by his own prejudices, Jeff subsequently swapped barbers in the shop and embarked upon a journey of discovery. He and Eli have since forged a tight friendship, and now they have parented a book that is a blend of autobiographies and crossover chronicles.

My takeaway from reading a downloaded version is that the 246-page effort – which includes an array of photos – is engaging, entertaining and enlightening.

The self-published book is available on Amazon or, if you are interested, you can probably meet Jeff and Eli and buy a copy at a local event. I’ll try to keep you posted as to where and when they occur I’ll let Jeff take over from this point on. He wrote this excerpt after their second encounter:

In my youth, if you called someone queer it was sure to start a fight. Apparently, the word has come full circle and queer has become acceptable to use, especially in their own culture… Even at that early stage of our growing friendship, I was beginning to realize that different didn’t mean wrong. Basic stuff, right? Unfortunately many people don’t see life that way. I may have been one of those

people, but I knew I didn’t want to be. I needed a catalyst, and for me that took the form of a young, queer barber… When I went home after that second haircut, I realized it was no longer about shedding my biases, it was about finding a friend. From that day on, I found myself looking forward to our appointments.

I’ll let another of Jeff’s excerpts bring this story to a close now.

My education began with that first haircut appointment and continues each time Eli and I get together… I wish I could say I fully understand this gender issue now, but I still don’t. I have learned enough to know that those who are in the LGBTQ+ community deserve the same love and support we all need in our lives.

In 2020, as the world grappled with the uncertainty ushered in by a global pandemic, Coach Derrick made a heartfelt choice to step away from the limelight of the courts and veered toward anchoring his family through tempestuous times. His hiatus, while keenly felt within POD from page C-1

the basketball fraternity, was a poignant testament to his core values.

of perseverance and strategic play.

Fast forward four years and Coach Derrick is returning, and POD Basketball is reinventing itself with a vision even more grandeur than before. This call is an invitation to girl basketball players straddling the lengths of the 215 and 15 freeways. It’s an opportunity of a lifetime to train, contest, and showcase their verve among the crème de la crème of the IE’s talent pool. For those ready to take their game to unrivaled heights, reach out to Coach Derrick at prospectsondeck@gmail.com JP Raineri can be reached by email at sports@reedermedia. com

E.J. Radford, left, and Jeff Comerchero, right. Valley News/Courtesy photos

The Old Man & the Queer.

Verdant dreams: Designing the backyard garden

Sandy Lindsey

The Epoch Times

Formal or relaxed, a garden should be personal—a space that reflects and fulfills the needs of the homeowner as well as family and friends. Whether starting fresh or making a few key changes, there are some crucial factors to consider before planting, and most definitely, before installing any hardscaping. The first aspect to consider is the desired goals.

More specifically, how will the garden be used? Make a list of activities (sunbathing, meditating, barbecuing/dining, playing touch football games, etc.). Take into account the needs of children and pets and be sure to include longterm plans as well as immediate ones. No one wants to discover years later that a patio or builtin planters impinge on the ideal location for a pool. Create an ultimate wish list.

The fun part

Get the entire family involved in the ideas phase. Items can be easily removed from a list, but adding them once the actual garden building gets underway can be nigh impossible. Things to consider are sitting areas, entertaining areas, play areas, paths, and steps. Consider specialty sub-gardens—a rock garden, wildlife habitat, vegetable garden, etc.

Also, will there be a pergola for shade, a tinkling fountain or watercourse to add ambience and provide water for birds and wildlife, or a sculpture or two? Perhaps the garden will be anchored by an outdoor kitchen. Write it all down. Figuring out what will realistically fit comes at the next stage—drawing a landscape plan.

Creative bubbles

The next step is to start putting the ideas on paper, starting with existing structures, trees, and other plants that cannot or will not be moved. Make several photocopies—or scan and print several copies—of the “existing” diagram. One can go immediately to a free landscape design software such as Landscape Planner 5D, but at this point, working on paper and making a few quick bubble plans is easier, particularly if several people are involved.

By using circular, oval, rectangular, and freeform bubbles to represent different use areas—from ornamental beds, screening hedges, open lawn and rock, wildlife, rock or vegetable garden areas, to patios and other

hardscapes—one can more easily visualize how different areas will join, overlap, and work together.

Be sure to incorporate space for less-attractive features including garbage cans, firewood storage for an outdoor fire pit, a compost bin, an HVAC unit, a pool pump, etc. The idea is to create several bubble plans and choose the best one, which will then be used to create a more detailed plan. Also, keep irrigation needs in mind. Is hand-watering convenient, or will a sprinkler system need to be installed?

If the garden is spacious enough, consider creating “rooms,” just like inside the home. A Zen garden or hot tub is a delightful “surprise” when hidden behind a lush planting that also gives the area additional privacy. A dedicated children’s play area gives them their own territory for adventures. These “rooms” help maximize space and can actually make a yard seem larger.

Fine tuning

Depending on the complexity of the design, it may not be necessary to spend the time and effort required to input the existing garden and design plans into landscape software; a detailed drawing may be all that’s needed. Either way, a few more decisions need to be made.

Will the garden have a theme?

A theme can be as simple as using consistent geometric shapes, forms, or colors throughout the yard to create a unifying feel. This—and in fact all garden design—should take into account the house’s architecture, as the garden should flow out from the home.

Some other popular choices are a butterfly garden, a Zen garden, and a tropical jungle. Rather than being a burden, a theme can actually make plant and material decisions easier by narrowing down the selection.

Plant partners

Valley News/Courtesy photos

Landscape plants do triple duty in a garden, offering aesthetic, structural, and utilitarian benefits, and fall into four categories: ground layer (up to six inches tall), foreground (six to 24 inches), mid-ground (two to five feet), and background/trees (five feet or taller). They can be used to modify light and temperature (shade trees), control noise (privacy shrubs and hedges), perfume the air (scented flowers), and provide food for the homeowner and wildlife alike.

Background shrubs and hedges are excellent when it comes to blocking an area for privacy or to hide an unwanted view. They also make a good wind block. Lower plantings, on the other hand, excel at defining a space without completely cutting off the rest of the garden. Plantings should be examined from several visual planes and angles before ordering the first one, which is where landscape software that can provide a 3D rendering proves useful.

Stay grounded

Before removing any old hardscaping, determine what can be reused. Chipped patio bricks may make an excellent “vintage” base for garbage cans.

Future vision

Planting a garden involves thinking about not just now, but the future as well. Be sure to allow enough room in the design for growth. Take into account that plant sizes are normally based on average growing conditions and may grow smaller or even larger in one’s area.

Beat the heat

Properly planted on the east, west, or south side of a house (depending on its site placement), deciduous trees can help save money on summer cooling bills by providing valuable shade, then lose their leaves in fall to allow the sun in to help with winter heating.

Water, Water Everywhere Consider incorporating a

Pick up free seed packets at the Ronald H. Roberts Temecula Public Library

TEMECULA – The Ronald H.

Roberts Temecula Public Library, 30600 Pauba Road, will once again host the Little Sprouts Seed Library this spring, beginning Saturday, March 16.

Community members are encouraged to visit the Children’s Library Section to pick up a variety of free organic seed packets including melons, carrots, squash, peppers and more. After selecting their favorite fruit and vegetable seed packets, families will journey together as they plant, cultivate,

grow and harvest produce in their home gardens. Parents can prepare and cook a healthy meal with their children using their fresh home-grown ingredients. These educational experiences will promote agriculture, sustainability and wellness to the youth of the Temecula Valley. The Little Sprouts Seed Library is made possible through partnership with Vlada’s Seeds of Life, a nonprofit organization, and through sponsorship by the Friends of the Temecula Libraries.

rainwater catchment system for a budget-friendly, sustainable, and chlorine-free (spider plants, Ti plants, and dracaenas are

particularly sensitive) source of irrigation. It can be as simple as a decorative rain barrel to catch roof runoff.

Visit http://Vladaseedsoflife.com to learn more about the program or call the Ronald H. Roberts Temecula Public Library at 951693-8900 for more information.

For a full list of programs and offerings at the Ronald H. Roberts Temecula Public Library, visit http://TemeculaCA.gov/Library and follow @TemeculaLibrary on social media for updates. Submitted by Ronald H. Roberts Temecula Public Library.

Valley News/Pexels.com photo

REGIONAL NEWS

Highway Updates

Caltrans bridge work continues throughout Riverside County

Tony Ault Staff Writer

The California Department of Transportation is working on a number of bridges throughout Riverside County in a $3.7 million bridge upgrade project on State Route 74 in Hemet, State Route 79 in Aguanga, State Route 111 in Palm Springs, State Route 243 near Idyllwild and on Interstate 10.

Those upgrades will most likely take less time as the better weather approaches. However motorists are to be cautious of the road crews working on the bridges in various locations throughout Riverside County.

The projects include concrete overlay, replacement of joint seals on the bridges, and repair/ replacement of approach slabs. Work will take place in multiple locations in and near the cities of Riverside, Beaumont, San Jacinto, Perris, Hemet, Palm Springs and various unincorporated areas.

Hours of operations are Monday through Friday from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. Work may require weeknight traffic control. Currently bridge deck work is scheduled just east of Dillon Road in Coachella on I-10 and near Thomas Mountain on SR-74. Construction schedule is subject to materials availability

and weather conditions.

Motorists traveling on SR-74 from Hemet to Highway 243 leading to Idyllwild should be especially careful coming up to the Strawberry Creek bridge where a temporary traffic light is in operation throughout the week. The road narrows to one lane with the light controlling the traffic going up or coming down the highway. Obey the traffic signal and go only on green.

Aguana and Anza Caltrans continues work on the $5.2 million slurry seal and rumble strips maintenance project on State Route 371 from Aguanga through Anza in Riverside County. Crews continue work in various locations on SR-371 from the junction of State Route 79 and SR-371 to the junction of State Route 74 and SR-371. Work is weather and temperature dependent. Hours of operation: Monday-Saturday, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Traffic control: Watch for intermittent short term lane closures throughout the project zone. Speed limits are reduced throughout the construction zone. The California Highway Patrol will be on scene to assist with traffic control and safety.

Wildomar Caltrans is alerting the public

that construction will be taking place in the City of Wildomar, on the I-15 South offramp from Bundy Canyon Road to the Olive Street bridge. Daytime operations scheduled Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. All work is dependent on the contractor receiving proper materials for each job function. It can be changed or canceled at any time. Work includes installing a guardrail system and terminal end system along the roadway. Right shoulder will be closed. Watch for signage alerting motorists of upcoming lane closures and construction zones. Drivers should anticipate traffic delays and plan ahead.

Murrieta/Temecula

Caltrans is alerting the public that construction will be taking place in the cities of Murrieta and Temecula. Daytime operations are scheduled Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. Commuter access remains from the I-15 from SR-79 to Kalmia St. The crews will be working on installing trash capture devices. Watch for signage alerting motorists of upcoming lane closures and construction zones. Drivers should anticipate traffic delays and plan ahead. All work is dependent on the contractor receiving proper materials for each job function.

It can be changed or canceled at any time.

Hemet Caltrans continues work on a $51.6 million corridor improvement project on SR74 (Florida Ave.) in Hemet. The project will repave and rehabilitate 49 lane miles, install Traffic Management Systems, upgrade curb ramps, sidewalks and driveways to Americans with Disabilities Act standards, enhance bike lane signage and striping, and upgrade 29 bus pads within the project parameters. Weather permitting. Work zone is in and near Hemet on SR-74 from Winchester Road to Fairview Avenue for the project length of 11.2 miles. Expect delays during nighttime operations. Use alternate routes to avoid any delays. Driveway, curb ramp, sidewalk construction and micro trenching will take place throughout the week if weather permits. Watch for alternate route signage for business access. Regular hours include day and nighttime operations, Sunday through Thursday from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m.

Lake Elsinore Caltrans is working on SR74 (Ortega Highway) from the Riverside and Orange County border to Monte Vista Street just

west of Lake Elsinore. Crews are performing work in various locations throughout the project zone. One-way traffic control with escorts will be in place from 8 p.m. to 9:59 p.m. During the hours of 10 p.m. to 5 a.m., the route will be closed to through traffic. Residents and commuters will need to utilize the alternate routes to go around the closure each night beginning at 10 p.m. Access through the work zone will be prohibited during the previously stated hours. Work will take place nightly, east of the county line on SR74, Monday through Friday. Weeknight work is weather dependent and subject to change or cancellation at any time. Residents on Tenaja Truck Trail or west of Tenaja Truck Trail, including the Ortega Oaks RV Park and Campground and The Candy Store, will be directed to Lake Elsinore, and will not be given access to go through to Orange County during the hours of 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. Residents at Long Canyon and Decker Canyon will be directed to Lake Elsinore and will not be given access to go through to Orange County during the hours of 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.

Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com

County Supervisor Karen Spiegel hosts annual Homeless Symposium

TEMESCAL CANYON

– Supervisor Karen Spiegel of Riverside County’s Second District hosted the annual Homeless Symposium Thursday, Feb. 29, at the Terramor Terrace Club in Temescal Valley. The event, a collaborative discussion on homelessness solutions within the 2nd District, was facilitated by Heidi Marshall, county director of housing and workforce solutions.

The symposium brought together experts and stakeholders from various departments, including Riverside University Health Systems including Behavioral Health, Adult Protective Services, Housing & Workforce Solutions and Riverside County Regional Parks & Open Space District. Their contributions foster a comprehensive dialogue on the multifaceted issue of homelessness.

The roundtable discussion included contributions from Behavioral Health’s Dr. Matthew Chang, Regional Park & Open Space District’s Christian Sanchez, Adult Services’ Barry Dewing and Housing & Workforce Solutions’ Greg Rodriguez. This discussion allowed for a deep dive into the various aspects of homelessness, from mental health to housing solutions, showcasing the district’s holistic approach to addressing this critical issue.

The symposium concluded with an insightful recap and closing remarks from Michael Walsh of Housing & Workforce Solutions, encapsulating the day’s discussions and setting a forwardlooking tone for continued action and collaboration.

“Our annual Homeless Symposium has once again highlighted the critical importance of coming together as a community to address one of the most pressing issues of our time,” Spiegel.

“I am deeply grateful for the invaluable contributions from

Tanya Torno, deputy director of housing and workforce solutions, provided a presentation, sharing data and insights on the county’s current homelessness challenges and initiatives. The event also featured voices from the cities of Corona, Norco, Eastvale, Jurupa Valley, Lake Elsinore and Canyon Lake, further emphasizing the symposium’s inclusive and collaborative approach.

our dedicated departments, as well as the active participation of the cities of our district. Their insights and collaborative spirit are instrumental in paving the way toward sustainable solutions for homelessness. We are creating a roadmap for change and hope in our district.”

The 2nd District’s annual Homeless Symposium stands as a testament to the community’s commitment to finding innovative and sustainable solutions to homelessness. Through collaborative efforts and shared knowledge, the district continues to make strides toward creating a future where every individual has access to safe and stable housing.

Spiegel has been an elected public servant since 1996, serving in several positions in Corona, including city treasurer and council member, and serving four times as mayor. She was first elected to represent the 2nd District in November 2018 and was sworn into office for her second term Jan. 10, 2023. For more information, visit https://rivcodistrict2.org/ about-supervisor-karen-spiegel.

Riverside County’s Second

District is a vibrant community committed to the well-being and prosperity of its residents. It encompasses the cities of Corona, Norco, Eastvale, Jurupa Valley, Lake Elsinore, Canyon Lake and many unincorporated communities

working tirelessly to address social issues, including homelessness, to ensure a high quality of life for all its constituents. For more information, visit https:// rivcodistrict2.org.

Submitted by Riverside County.

Karen Spiegel, 2nd District supervisor of Riverside County, hosts the annual Homeless Symposium at the Terramor Terrace Club in Temescal Canyon, which included roundtable discussions with directors of various social service agencies addressing mental health and housing solutions.

Valley News/Courtesy photo

Cell

phone radiation research was halted after worrisome findings:

Expert questions why

Federal agencies are cancelling research, differing significantly from Europe’s more precautionary approach to cell phones

George Citroner

The Epoch Times

Decades of animal research point to serious health risks from cell phone radiation exposure, but examining a possible link stops now.

The National Toxicology Program (NTP), tasked with studying potential toxins, recently announced it would no longer investigate evidence that cell phone radiation can harm animals or people. The move stunned scientists like Devra Davis, a former senior adviser to the assistant secretary for Health in the Department of Health and Human Services, who called the abrupt reversal scientifically unjustified.

There’s “no scientific explanation or justification for this sudden reversal,” Ms. Davis told The Epoch Times.

Unpublished NTP research undermines decision to halt cell phone radiation studies

The NTP recently claimed that additional radiofrequency radiation (RFR) studies are not planned, stating the research was “technically challenging and more resource-intensive than expected.”

Ms. Davis criticized this decision, noting that technical challenges are not a reason to avoid studying something that appears to cause cancer in animals.

“Everything that we know for sure causes cancer in people will produce it in animals when adequately studied,” she added.

Despite admitting to developing a novel small-scale RFR exposure system in 2019 to clarify earlier

findings, the NTP canceled further investigations. This system only studied older 2G and 3G devices, not newer 4G or 5G technologies.

Ms. Davis, a former NTP advisor, said she helped recommend smaller test chambers. The agency takes years to plan studies, so scrapping this project is “beyond my comprehension at this point,” given millions of children’s daily exposure, she noted.

In an emailed statement, the NTP confirmed that although work on the small-scale exposure system and accompanying research has been completed, the results will be publicly available and posted on the agency’s webpage only “when internal reviews are finished.” As of this writing, the 2019 research remains unpublished.

Court finds FCC illegally ignored 5G health risks

The NTP published results in 2018 from two-year toxicology studies showing “clear evidence” of associations between 2G/3G cell phone radiation and tumors in male rats. Follow-up research in 2019 revealed DNA damage in the brains, livers, and blood cells of exposed rats and mice.

Despite originally requesting and overseeing these studies, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has since dismissed the NTP’s findings, Ms. Davis said.

In 2019, the Federal Communications Commission affirmed outdated 1996 radiation exposure standards for new 5G technologies, which did not even exist then. To justify this, the FDA anonymously produced an unreviewed document in 2020.

The Environmental Health Trust (EHT) sued the FCC.

In 2021, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit ruled against the FCC. The court said the FCC acted improperly and illegally by keeping its 1996 wireless radiation exposure limits. The court found the FCC ignored evidence that radiation below its current limits can cause adverse health effects besides cancer, noting that the FCC also failed to respond to comments about the environmental harm caused by radiation.

The court ordered revised standards accounting for EHT’s

records on risks to children and the environment. FCC let carriers abandon landlines

Since 2019, France has mandated cell phones include warnings to keep such devices away from teens and pregnant women’s lower abdomens because of radiation risks. The European Union also funds extensive research on RFR hazards. “So why are we ignoring animal study results showing harm?” Ms. Davis said. “There’s only one reason: because there’s so much money involved.” Landlines offered an alternative

to cell phones, but the FCC’s 2019 order let carriers abandon copper lines. Companies like Verizon have begun retiring landlines, leaving consumers with only wireless options. People can still reduce RFR exposure by:

• Not carrying phones in pockets or bras

• Us ing speakerphone and holding phones away from the head/body

• Keeping devices away from reproductive organs

• Using wired over WiFi internet

• Not sleeping near phones

Inflation comes hotter than expected for second straight month

Andrew Moran

The Epoch Times

The U.S. annual inflation rate has risen to a higher-than-expected 3.2 percent, underscoring the challenges policymakers face in reducing it to the 2 percent target.

Economists had projected the consumer price index (CPI) to climb 0.4 percent in February, up from the previous month’s 0.3 percent reading.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the monthly inflation rate rose 0.4 percent for the second straight month slightly higher than the consensus estimate of 0.3 percent.

Core inflation, which omits the volatile energy and food indexes, eased from 3.9 percent to 3.8 percent. This also came in a bit higher than the market forecast of 3.7 percent.

The core CPI jumped 0.4 percent, unchanged from January and topping the 0.3 percent projection.

The two biggest contributors to the hotter-than-expected inflation reading were gasoline and shelter.

Energy prices have played a sizable role in inflation readings remaining elevated.

The energy index advanced 2.3 percent monthly but is still down 1.9 percent compared to the same time a year ago. Gasoline surged 3.6 percent, electricity rose 0.3 percent, and utility (piped) gas service swelled 2.3 percent.

Since the beginning of the year, the price for a barrel of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil has surged 10 percent to around $78. The average cost of a gallon of gasoline has also risen nearly 10 percent to $3.39.

Middle East tensions and tighter supply conditions have mainly fueled the jump in energy commodities in the first three months of 2024. Oil’s gains have been limited, though, based on concerns surrounding China’s economy and disappointment over the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and its allies, OPEC+, not extending their production cuts until the year’s end.

Shelter continues to remain elevated despite forecasts that it would ease by now. Instead, shelter increased 0.4 percent monthly and is up 5.7 percent year-over-year.

Meanwhile, there continues to be progress on food inflation, with the index unchanged at 0 percent month-over-month. Both supermarket and food away-fromhome prices were flat.

New vehicles dipped 0.1 percent, while used cars and trucks increased 0.5 percent. Apparel surged 0.6 percent.

The services index, which continues to be a driving factor behind the reacceleration in inflationary pressures, rose 0.5 percent. On an annualized basis, it is up 5.2 percent.

Transportation services rocketed 1.4 percent last month and soared 9.9 percent in the 12 months ending in February.

In addition, the Fed’s widely watched supercore inflation, which excludes energy, food, and housing, slowed to 4.28 percent. Supercore also rose 0.5 percent, down from 0.8 percent.

Market Reaction

The U.S. financial markets reacted positively to the hotter inflation numbers. Analysts say traders were relieved that it was not higher.

Giuseppe Sette, the president of investment research firm Toggle AI, called this a “stable” inflation report. However, there is a caveat: The numbers will allow the central bank to remain patient.

“With strong employment and CPI not budging from the 3% handle, the Fed will not be in a rush to cut,” he said in a note.

Ahead of the March 12 opening bell, the leading benchmark indexes were up as much as 0.6 percent.

U.S. Treasury yields were mostly red across the board, with the benchmark 10-year yield sliding below 4.09 percent. The 2-year yield dipped to 4.52 percent, while the 30-year bond eased to 4.255 percent.

The U.S. Dollar Index (DXY), a gauge of the greenback against a basket of currencies, was flat at around 102.9.

Peter Schiff, the chief economist and global strategist at Euro Pacific Asset Management, wrote on social media platform X that the February inflation numbers confirm “that the disinflation trend ended months ago.”

“Inflation has bottomed and is on the rise. Rather than falling back down to the Fed’s 2% target,

the rate is far more likely to head back up to 9%, then ultimately breaking into the double digits,” he wrote.

Some economists believe there could be a reacceleration of inflation.

Economists at ITR Economics told The Epoch Times that the United States could see the annual inflation rate back to 4 or 5 percent by next year.

Looking Ahead

As for the next CPI report, the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland’s Inflation Nowcasting model estimates the annual inflation rate will rise to 3.3 percent.

Despite the annual inflation rate easing from its June 2022 peak of 9.1 percent, there is ostensibly a long road ahead to returning it to the Fed’s 2 percent target. Inflation expectations, whether from economists or consumers, suggest a sluggish last mile in the fight to vanquish price pressures from the U.S. economy.

The New York Fed’s recent Survey of Consumer Expectations (SCE) showed median one-yearahead inflation expectations stuck at 3 percent. The SCE data also highlighted an increase at the three-year-ahead horizon, from 2.4 percent to 2.7 percent. The fiveyear outlook also jumped from 2.5 percent to 2.9 percent.

White House officials also revealed that bringing the CPI sustainably toward 2 percent will be challenging. President Joe Biden’s fiscal year 2025 budget framework projects the CPI will be stuck at 2.3 percent from 2025 to 2034.

Following three consecutive months of improving sentiment, consumers are signaling frustration.

Last month, The Conference Board’s Consumer Confidence Index fell for the first time since November, and January’s reading was revised downward. Additionally, the University of Michigan’s Consumer Sentiment Index slipped in February amid a higher inflation outlook and labor market concerns.

Ultimately, the latest numbers will be more information for the data-dependent Fed to sift through, says Mark Hamrick, the senior economic analyst at Bankrate.

“Officials have said they

can afford to be patient as they consider when and if to cut rates. They’d feel more comfortable about rate reductions if inflation were to be less sticky,” he said in a statement. “The slightly stronger than expected CPI doesn’t do much to add to their confidence, but they can still ponder the possibilities for May, June, and July.”

Even if the road to 2 percent hits a roadblock, investors are optimistic that the policymaking Federal Open Market Committee will cut interest rates at the June meeting, with odds at around 60 percent, according to the CME FedWatch Tool.

Appearing before the House Financial Services Committee and the Senate Banking Committee last week, Fed Chair Jerome Powell told lawmakers that the first rate cut was on the horizon.

Small Businesses Under Pressure

Small businesses have witnessed an upward trend in prices over the last 30 days, a new RedBalloonPublicSquare report found.

According to the February

Freedom Economy Index, 75 percent say supplier prices have risen in the last month, and onethird have transferred the price hikes to consumers.

Additionally, 88 percent think inflation will remain a factor for some time.

Likewise, new data from the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) showed that nearly a quarter (23 percent) of small business owners reported inflation to be their single most important problem in operating their business.

The March Business Optimism Index fell to a nine-month low of 89.4, falling short of the consensus estimate of 90.7.

“While inflation pressures have eased since peaking in 2021, small business owners are still managing the elevated costs of higher prices and interest rates. The labor market has also eased slightly as small business owners are having an easier time attracting and retaining employees,” said Bill Dunkelberg, the NFIB chief economist.

Centenarian World War Two vet to be married on 80th anniversary of D-Day

One-hundred-year-old WWII veteran Harold Terens of Florida will marry his sweetheart Jeanne Swerlin on the upcoming 80th anniversary of D-Day.

Terens was a corporal in the US Army Air Forces during the war. He was a radio repair technician repairing the P-47 Thunderbolt aircraft returning from France on D-Day.

Both Terens and Swerlin are widowed and grew up in New York. This still playful and lively couple has been dating since 2021. They enjoy dancing and spending affectionate moments together.

“Being in love is not just for the young,” says Swerlin. “We get butterflies just like everybody else.” The bride-to-be is 96.

When Terens proposed a few months ago, he got down on one knee. Swerlin later said, “I thought I’d have to help him up, but he’s so macho.”

“He’s the greatest kisser,” she added.

Of her, Terens says, “I love this girl — she is quite special.”

Following a commemoration celebrating the French liberation from the Nazis 80 years ago, the couple will exchange nuptials in France. The ceremony will take place in Carentan-les-Marais and be witnessed by the mayor JeanPierre Lhonneur, as the United Business Journal states.

Going back to France will be special for this WWII veteran, both to remember his service to his country as well as to become a husband once more.

Natalie Morris Contributor, The Daily Caller

Valley News/Courtesy photo

Luis Castillo, Program Coordinator

Santiago, MPH, Health Education Assistant

Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo

Anza’s in-person polling place for the March presidential primary election is

First

Baptist Church,

Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo

Valley

Sieker photo

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

Anza Community Hall Swap

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

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.

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

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

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

Backcountry Horsemen

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

Health, exercise, resources and recovery meetings

Fit after 50 – 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Tuesday and Friday mornings at Anza Community Hall. Free. Wear comfortable clothes and supportive shoes. Call or text instructor Teresa Hoehn at 951751-1462 for more information.

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

Veterans’ Gathering

Mondays – 9-11 a.m. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 39075 Contreras Road in Anza. Men and women veterans come to share and help each other deal with post-traumatic stress disorder and other difficulties. Call John Sheehan at 951-9236153. If you need an advocate to help with VA benefits, call Ronnie Imel at 951-659-9884.

The Most Excellent Way – A Christ-centered recovery program for all kinds of addiction meets 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

– 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, Anza. For more information, 951-7634759.

Food ministries

F.U.N. Group weekly food ministry – Deliveries arrive by 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 – Dinners at 1 p.m. are held the last Sunday of the month at the Anza Community Hall. All are welcome. Donations of time, money, etc. are always welcome.

Food for the Faithful – 8 a.m. The food bank hands out food the last Friday of the month until the food is gone. The clothes closet will be open too. Emergency food handed out as needed at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. FFF is a 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’s Sunday Sacrament is at 10 a.m.; Sunday School is 11 a.m. Priesthood/Relief Society meets at noon; Wednesday, Boy Scouts gathers 6 p.m. and Youth Night is 7 p.m. For more information, call Ruiz at 951-445-7180 or Nathan at 760-399-0727. The Wednesday Genealogy/Family History Class, 5-8 p.m., is open to the public at 39075 Contreras Road in Anza. Native Lighthouse Fellowship – 10 a.m. The group meets the first Saturday of the month, and breakfast is served. All are

welcome to fellowship together at the “Tribal Hall” below the casino in Anza. For more information, call Nella Heredia at 951-7630856.

Living Hope Bible Study –8-10 a.m. Tuesdays at Living Hope Christian Fellowship, 58050 Highway 371, Anza. All are welcome. For more information, call Pastor Kevin at 951-763-1111. Anza RV Clubhouse – 7 p.m., the second Wednesday of the Month, Pastor Kevin officiates at 41560 Terwilliger Road in Anza.

Monthly Christian Men’s Breakfast – 9 a.m. Breakfast takes place the 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 (6 to 12 grade) meets for games and Bible study. Anza Baptist Church also offers Men’s and Women’s Ministries, a Homeschool Support Group, Summer Vacation Bible School and a Seniors’ Ministry. The church office is open Wednesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The church is located at 39200 Rolling Hills Road in Anza. For more information, contact the church at 951-763-4937 or visit www. anzabaptistchurch.com

Clubs Anza Valley VFW Post 1873, Capt. John Francis Drivick III Post – The Ladies’ and Men’s Auxiliaries are located at 59011 Bailey Road in Anza. Mail P.O. Box 390433. Request monthly newsletter and or weekly menu by email at vfw1873anzaca@ gmail.com. For more information, call 951-763-4439 or visit http:// vfw1873.org High Country 4-H Club – 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 – Meetings at 1 p.m. are the third Saturday of each month at various locations. Share art, ideas and participate in shows. Guest speakers are always needed. For more information, call president Rosie Grindle at 951-928-1248. Find helpful art tips at www.facebook.com/ AnzaValleyArtists Anza Quilter’s Club –Meetings are held at 9:30 a.m. on the first Tuesday of each month at the Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 56095 Pena Road, Anza. For more information see our Facebook page or contact Pat Sprint at jpsprint@gmail.com or Ellen Elmore at luvtoquilt2@gmail.

com

Anza Valley Lions Club – The Anza Valley Lions Club has been reinstated and is open to all men and women who want to work

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

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

Fire Explorer Program – 6 p.m. The program meets every second, third and fourth Tuesday of the month at Fire Station 29 on state Route 371 in Anza. Call 951-763-5611 for information. Redshank Riders – 7 p.m. Backcountry horsemen meet at the Little Red Schoolhouse in Anza, the second Thursday of each month. Visit 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 the Anza Community Hall, 43275 Chapman Road in Anza. The social hour is 11:30 a.m., and lunch is served at noon. Contact Carol Wright at 951-7632884 for more information.

Organizations

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

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, 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. Single memberships are $30 and include discounts to events for one person and 1 vote in elections and meetings. Family memberships are $50 and include discounts for a family up to 5 members and 1 vote in elections and meetings. Business memberships are $50 and allows an employer to receive discounts for up to 5 people, including themselves, and includes 1 vote on elections and meetings. No government funds are allocated for the Hall, which pays its bills through memberships and swap meets. Mail membership to: Anza Community Building Inc. at P.O. Box 390091, Anza, CA 92539. The hall is located at 56630 Highway 371 in Anza. For more information, call 951282-4267 or email achageneral@ gmail.com or visit www. anzacommunitybuilding.org

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

March 5

The Sheriff’s Blotter enables residents to know what criminal activity is occurring in their communities. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo

Harper Ln., Anza, report taken

- 3800 *** block

Howard Rd., Anza, report taken

Suspicious circumstance4200 *** block Daisy Ct., Lake Riverside, handled by deputy

Grand theft - 4600 *** block

Jojoba Rd., Aguanga, handled by deputy Public disturbance - 3900 *** block Tamscott Dr., Anza, handled by deputy

Public disturbance - 4100

*** block Terwilliger Rd. Anza, handled by deputy

Follow-up - address withheld, Anza, handled by deputy Fraud - 5800 *** block St. Hwy.

371 Anza, unfounded March 8

Suspicious circumstance - 5300

*** block Old Stage Rd., Anza, handled by deputy

Petty theft - 4100 *** block

Terwilliger Rd., Anza, report taken Public disturbance - 5300 *** block St. Hwy. 371, Anza, handled

Harassing phone calls - address withheld, Cahuilla, handled by deputy March 6 Public disturbance - 3900 *** block Tamscott Dr., Anza, handled by deputy Public assist - 5200 *** block St. Hwy., 371 m, Cahuilla, handled by deputy Assist other department - 5200 *** block St. Hwy. 371 Cahuilla, handled by deputy Alarm call - 5600 *** block Valley View Ln., Anza, handled by deputy Area,check - address undefined, Anza, handled by deputy Assist other department- 5300 *** block Cave Rock Rd., Anza, handled by deputy March 7 Assist other department - 3800 *** block Boulder Hill Rd., Anza, handled by deputy Public disturbance - 5300 *** block Cahuilla Rd., Anza, handled by deputy Assist otherdepartment - 5400 *** block Bautista Rd., Anza, handled by deputy Grand theft - 3800 *** block

Thursday, April 4.

more information and

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

by deputy 911 call - 4100 *** block Wildwood LNn., Lake Riverside, handled by deputy March 9

Suspicious person - address undefined, Anza, handled by deputy

Assist other department - 5600

*** block St. Hwy. 371 Anza, handled by deputy Unlawful entry - 3800 *** block Manzanita Mountain Ln., Anza, handled by deputy

Civil dispute - 4100 *** block

Terwilliger Rd., Anza, handled by deputy

Suspicious vehicle - 4100 *** block Terwilliger Rd., Anza, handled by deputy Suspicious vehicle- address undefined, Anza, handled by deputy Public assist - 3700 *** block Lanik LNn., Anza, handled by deputy March 10

Public disturbance - 5200 *** block Cahuilla, Cahuilla, arrest made Assist otherdepartment - address undefined, Cahuilla, handled by deputy Suspicious circumstanceaddress undefined, Anza, handled by deputy

No assumption of criminal guilt or affiliation should be drawn from the content provided in the Sheriff’s Blotter. Residents with information regarding any crimes are encouraged to contact the Hemet Sheriff’s Station at (951)791-3400. Criminal activity can also be reported through the We-Tip Crime Reporting Hotline, (909)987-5005 or https://wetip.com.

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

VOTERS from page D-1

Local

For

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

CLINIC from page D-1

Staff is ready to check in patients at the Riverside County Public Health Immunization Program held at the Anza Community Hall Tuesday, March 5. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photos

[Right] Staff welcomes patients to the Riverside County Public Health Immunization Program held at the Anza Community Hall Tuesday, March 5.

Support 4 Paws to host free pet immunization clinic March 16

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

Support 4 Paws will host a free pet immunization and microchip clinic Saturday, March 16 at the Lions Club of Anza Valley’s gymkhana arena from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.. Both cats and dogs will be served. No appointment is necessary. No breeders will be accepted, however.

“This will be our first free clinic in Anza but we have done many in Landers and Desert Hot Springs,” said Support 4 Paws co-founder Debbie McCurry. “We are now branching out to Anza and Coachella.”

The organization will have free DA2PPV and FVRCP vaccines to help prevent distemper and parvo in dogs, as well as rabies vaccines and microchips. Vaccines and microchips for cats will also be offered.

“We will have a vet onsiteDr. Brenna Timmerman, DVM, who is graciously coming from Yucca Valley for the event, as well as our faithful volunteers,” said McCurry. “We are an allvolunteer organization that always endeavors to do the right thing for the animals.”

Support 4 Paws co-founders McCurry and Kim Raney are

dedicated to providing these free services to unserved and underserved communities to help curb preventable diseases and reunite lost animals. The distemper/parvo vaccines are generously donated through a grant from Petco Love.

“We go a step further than other organizations and register the microchips ourselves,” said McCurry. “An unregistered microchip is useless and by doing this we are giving lost animals their best chance at being reunited with their owners. Support 4 Paws is the only organization in the Coachella Valley and surrounding areas that provides these free services at every event.”

Support 4 Paws is a 501(c)3 taxexempt organization that relies on small dollar donations and grants. They also save euthanasia-listed dogs from the Riverside County and Apple Valley shelters. Follow them on Facebook and visit their website www.support4paws.org for information on upcoming clinics and to learn more about this small but mighty organization.

The Lions Club of Anza Valley’s gymkhana arena is located at 39551 Kirby Road in Anza. Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia. com

in Anza, beginning at 10:30 a.m..

The brick wall honors the victims of fatal vehicle crashes that have occurred on State Routes 371 and 79 in the communities of Anza and Aguanga.

“High Country 4-H members

Ariana and Rachael Madrid wanted to do something for their rural community,” said 4-H leader Allison Renck. “My husband had been killed in a collision on State Route 79, along with a passenger in the other car. A permanent memorial seemed to make all the accidents and those crosses on the roads very real; it was no longer just a story someone had told them about.”

According to Rencke, over the past two years, Ariana and Rachael designed the wall, asked for donations, requested and received permission for a site on which the wall would be built, recruited volunteers to help with the construction, obtained the materials and built the wall with the help their parents Ed and Susan Madrid and other High Country 4-H members.

High Country 4-H will be selling plaques to be placed on the wall to commemorate those who lost their lives in vehicle collisions on the local highways. Order forms will be available at the ceremony and on an ongoing basis through the organization.

“High Country 4-H would like to thank the sponsors of the wall: Anza Civic Improvement League, Anza Electric Cooperative, Inc. and their employees, the Anza Thimble Club, From the Heart Women’s Christian Ministries, JAL Masonry and EM Estate Management,” said event organizer Debbi Dangelo.

Following the ceremony, light refreshments and cookies will be served. For further information contact Dangelo at (951)7644296.

Minor Park is located at 56481 State Route 371 at the corner of Contreras Road in Anza.

Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia. com MEMORIAL from page D-1

[Right] Dogs and cats can be served by the Support 4 Paws pet immunization clinic Saturday, March 16 in Anza.

Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo

Reliance Church to host 37th annual Community Crosswalk on Good Friday

TEMECULA – The 37th annual Community Crosswalk, scheduled for Good Friday, March 29, will begin at Reliance Church, as a testament to the enduring spirit of communal faith and celebration in the Temecula area. Inspired by the journey of Arthur Blessit, who traversed the globe with a 12-foot cross, a group of 19 individuals from the community initiated their own Crosswalk tradition.

Commencing in 1987,

participants congregated at the original Stater Brothers, which is now Temecula Lanes, before embarking on a 2.2-mile pilgrimage to the original Hank’s Hardware, which is now Temecula Stampede. Carrying crosses and guitars, they infused the journey with song and fervor, culminating in a vibrant gathering at Hank’s Hardware. The inaugural walk sparked an annual tradition, with subsequent years marked by a post-walk praise and worship celebration at Sam Hicks Monument Park and hosted by various local churches.

Ten Healthy Habits – Part 5

Zachary Elliott Special to the Valley News

You can’t change your past habits, but you can change your future ones.

Today, we will examine the final three of the “Ten Healthy Habits.” If you want to grow in your faith and achieve all God has for you, strive to master them.

I will be a faithful witness for Jesus.

If you think about it, you promote many of the things you like; a good movie or restaurant, a great discount, your favorite vacation spot or sports team, just to name a few. You might even drone on and on about your favorite dog breed.

Promoting something means advancing, supporting or encouraging participation in

something or someone. In other words, when you promote your favorite whatever, you’re actually being a good witness for that thing.

What about Jesus?

The Bible is full of commands that say we should be faithful witnesses and promoters of the Good News.

Jesus said that we are to “Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone,” in Mark 16:15.

When we make being a witness for Jesus a habit in our lives, it changes the eternity of others. And that’s an excellent habit to get into.

I will be a person who cares about the next generation.

In my opinion, one of the saddest verses in the Bible is found in Judges 2:10-11, “After that generation died, another generation grew up who did not acknowledge the Lord or remember the mighty things he had done for Israel. The Israelites did evil in the Lord’s sight and served the images of Baal.”

We have an awesome and wonderful responsibility to love and serve the next generation and make sure they never forget the good things God has done.

It should be a habit in all our lives. Let me ask you. What are you doing to serve and care for the next generation? It’s time to make it a habit in your life.

I will be a person who doesn’t quit.

To quit is to give up and stop trying. Often, we have a hard time

Over the past 36 years, the Community Crosswalk has grown into a tradition, drawing tens of thousands of individuals from diverse backgrounds. Families arrive with wagons, strollers and wheelchairs, creating a vibrant tapestry of multigenerational participation. This event has become a family affair, symbolizing unity and devotion as congregations from across the valley converge to honor the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. All are invited to join the 37th annual Community Crosswalk. Note the change in location for this year’s event, however. Participants will gather at Reliance Church, 29825 Santiago Road, at 11 a.m. on Good Friday, embarking on a .9-mile journey through Old Town Temecula to Sam Hicks Monument

quitting bad habits. But we’re excellent at quitting when we try to create good ones.

Good things take time, and they are often challenging. That’s what makes quitting so enticing. It’s easy.

Especially when we don’t see the instant results we were hoping for. Galatians 6:9 teaches us to “not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.”

God is not a microwave. He often doesn’t give us instant results, even when we’re doing what is good. It takes time for a harvest to sprout.

So whatever good thing you’re close to quitting, don’t. Make faithfulness your habit even when it’s a bit rough. The best things always grow after a storm.

The Ten Healthy Habits:

I will be a person of prayer. I will be a person who reads my Bible.

I will be a generous person.

I will be a person who serves others.

I will be a faithful church member.

I will be a worshiper.

I will be a person who speaks well of others.

I will be a faithful witness for Jesus.

I will be a person who cares about the next generation.

I will be a person who doesn’t quit.

Park, 41970 Moreno Road.

Following the walk, attendees will unite with fellow worshippers from churches throughout the valley for a heartfelt praise and worship celebration. A return shuttle bus will be provided for the convenience of participants.

Submitted by Community Crosswalk.

Fusion Christian Church Easter Celebration Events

Easter encompasses more than the symbols of the Easter Bunny and eggs; it holds profound significance. It represents the most pivotal event in history – the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

March Easter Series, daily at 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.

Family Picture Day, Sunday, March 24. Take family pictures with the Easter Bunny.

Easter Egg Hunt, Sunday, March 31. During each of our services, we have something special in store for your little ones, from infants to 5th graders.

Easter Day Services, Sunday, March 31, at 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.

For more information, visit http://fusionchristianchurch.com/ easter. Fusion Christian Church is located at 26700 Ynez Court, in Temecula.

Zachary Elliott is the lead pastor of Fusion Christian Church in Temecula. For more information, visit http://www.

fusionchristianchurch.com, http:// www.encouragementtoday.tv or find them on Instagram.

Jehovah’s Witnesses launch invitation campaign to two events in March

SAN DIEGO – While the date

Sunday, March 24, may pass imperceptibly for many, millions around the world will gather at sundown to commemorate the death of Jesus Christ.

Considered the most important day of the year for Jehovah’s

Valley News/Courtesy photo world, over 20 million people attended the event last year.

Witnesses, the Memorial is observed annually on Nisan 14 of the Jewish calendar in adherence to Jesus’ statement found at Luke 22:19, “Keep doing this in remembrance of me.”

Though there are over 8.6 million

Jehovah’s Witnesses around the

“Each year, people who are not Jehovah’s Witnesses attend the Memorial. We welcome members of our local community with open arms, to join us in remembering the death of Jesus Christ and to show gratitude for his sacrifice,” LaVell Anderson, local representative for Jehovah’s Witnesses, said. “While this is a solemn event, it is also a joyous occasion that offers comfort and hope.”

The one-hour event will feature a talk highlighting the significance of Jesus’ death and what it means for all of mankind.

In San Diego, a special campaign

will be launched during March 2024 to invite local residents to attend the annual observance of the Lord’s Evening Meal as well as a special public talk that will be delivered the week before. Titled “The Resurrection –Victory Over Death,” the special talk will be delivered at local Kingdom Halls, March 16-17. The 30-minute, Bible-based public discourse will focus on the scriptural hope of a resurrection of the dead in the near future.

“Knowing that there are millions worldwide sharing in this unified event is very moving for me,” Eric Montalvo of San Diego, who has attended the Memorial for years

with his wife Monique, said. “We look forward to inviting the public, friends and family to both special occasions.”

To learn more about how Jehovah’s Witnesses observe the Lord’s Supper, visit the event’s Frequently Asked Questions page found on http://jw.org, the official website of Jehovah’s Witnesses. For more information about the 2024 Memorial and special talk and how to attend, visit http:// jw.org.

Submitted by Jehovah’s Witnesses.

LIVE AT PALA CASINO SPA & GOLF RESORT

Sublime Tribute

by Badfish

Showtime: 8PM • $25

APRIL 12

MARCH 22

Lea Salonga

Showtime: 8PM $85/$65/$45

Nirvana & Green Day Tribute

by Smells Like Nirvana & NOT.GREENDAY

Showtime: 8PM

General Admission • $25

Selena Tribute by Anything for Salinas

Showtime: 8PM

General Admission $25

APRIL 19

Morgan Wallen Tribute by 7 Summers

Showtime: 8PM • $25

APRIL 20

Michael Jackson Tribute

by This Was It

Showtime: 8PM • $25