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Local COVID-19 hospitalizations reach new lows

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Volume 21, Issue 12

Hemet ﬁre Chief Scott Brown announces retirement

Will Fritz ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Local Riverside County eyes coronavirus red tier movement next week City News Service SPECIAL TO VALLEY NEWS

Local Temecula 13-yearold is a winning playwright through Playwrights Project

Hemet ﬁre Chief Scott Brown, seen speaking to a crowd in 2019, retires from service, Friday, March 12.

Tony Ault STAFF WRITER

Hemet’s ﬁre Chief Scott Brown, after serving the city for the past six years, announced his retire-

ment Wednesday, March 10, according to Hemet oﬃcials. “After much deliberation and discussions with my family, I have decided to retire from the ﬁre service in order to spend more

time with my family and to pursue other interests,” Brown said in a news release. “I am very proud of the men and women of the Hemet Fire Department who have worked tirelessly to help us raise the level

Anza Valley Outlook ......AVO-1 Business ............................... C-6 Business Directory............... C-8 Calendar of Events .............. B-7 Classiﬁeds ............................ C-3 Education ............................ B-1 Entertainment ..................... B-4 Faith ..................................... C-8 Health .................................. C-5 Home & Garden .................. B-6 Local .................................... A-1 National News ..................... C-7 Opinion................................. C-3 Pets ..................................... C-4 Regional News ..................... C-7 Sports ................................... C-1 Wine & Dine ........................ B-3

see BROWN, page A-2

District will start with TK-K students April 5, move to reopen for other grade levels throughout April Will Fritz ASSOCIATE EDITOR

INDEX

of professionalism and operational readiness of the department. “Together, with the support of the community, we have achieved

Lake Elsinore elementary schools to begin reopening next month

Lexington Howe STAFF WRITER

see page A-5

Valley News/Shane Gibson photo

Lake Elsinore Uniﬁed School District is preparing for students to return to in-person instruction in April. Valley News/Shane Gibson ﬁle photo

With Riverside County on the verge of moving into the secondhighest “red” tier of the state’s coronavirus reopening framework, the Lake Elsinore Uniﬁed School District Thursday, March 11, approved an updated reopening calendar that calls for elementary schools to be open for part-time, in-person learning next month. Anticipating approval of the

district’s COVID Safety Plan by the Riverside County and state of California departments of public health, LEUSD’s board voted Friday, March 12, to approve a plan that will begin in-person instruction for TK-K students April 5 – the Monday after spring break – to be followed by ﬁrst and second grades April 12; third and fourth grades April 19, and ﬁfth and sixth grades April 26. see SCHOOL, page A-5

Lake Elsinore looks to amend added dwelling units code, continues hold on new cannabis business applications Lexington Howe STAFF WRITER

The Lake Elsinore City Council looked at amendments to Title 17 of the Lake Elsinore Municipal Code related to accessory dwelling units at the meeting Tuesday, March 9. Justin Kirk, assistant community development director of Lake Elsinore, came forward and gave a presentation on the topic on behalf of the staﬀ. “The update to our municipal code is related to several pieces of state legislation that were adopted throughout the year of 2020 and 2021,” Kirk said. “These actions limit the abilities of local jurisdictions to regulate speciﬁc aspects of accessory dwelling units related to size, quantity, setbacks and parking. see ELSINORE, page A- 6

Lake Elsinore City Council passes a motion to extend the moratorium on applications submitted for Valley News/Courtesy photo cannabis related land uses.

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• M arch 1 9 , 20 21

LOCAL

COVID-19 hospitalizations reach new lows Will Fritz ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Coronavirus hospitalizations in the Temecula and Hemet valleys now stand at their lowest points in months, according to the latest data released by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. A data release from March , based on statistics from hospitals across the nation for the seven days preceding Feb. 26, individuals with COVID-19 now make up just 10 of patients at Temecula Valley Hospital, 11 of those at Southwest Healthcare System which includes Inland Valley and Rancho Springs medical centers in Wildomar and Murrieta, respectively , 11 of those at Loma Linda University Medical Center Murrieta, and 7 of those at Hemet lobal Medical Center. Meanwhile, Menifee lobal Medical Center did not report any coronavirus patients. As recently as January, many local hospitals were reporting that upward of half of all patients were coronavirus-positive. At the peak of the third wave of the pandemic in January, Loma Linda University Medical Center Murrieta reported more than two-thirds of its patients were coronavirus-positive. Here is a more detailed look at some of the most recent HHS data on local hospitals

Temecula Valley Hospital Total beds Seven-day average 13 .7 130.1 last week Total inpatient beds used Seven-day average 129.0 120.4 last week Total adults hospitalized, confirmed COVID-19 positive Seven-day average 12.4 1 .7 last week ICU beds Seven-day average 20.1 20.6 last week ICU beds used Seven-day average 1 .7 20.0 last week Southwest Healthcare System ( Inland Valley and Rancho Springs medical centers) Total beds Seven-day average 210.7 224 last week Total inpatient beds used Seven-day average 200.9 211.4 last week Total adults hospitalized, confirmed COVID-19 positive Seven-day average 20.4 27.7 last week ICU beds Seven-day average 25.6 24.9 last week ICU beds used Seven-day average 23.0 23.3 last week Loma Linda U niversity M edical Center M urrieta Total beds Seven-day average 145 132.6 last week Total inpatient beds used Seven-day average 131.6 121.1 last week Total adults hospitalized, confirmed COVID-19 positive Seven-day average 14.6 17.9 last week ICU beds Seven-day average 20.3 21 last week ICU beds used Seven-day average 17.0 17.7 last week Hemet Global M edical Center Total beds Seven-day average 21 same as last week Total inpatient beds used Seven-day average 10 .7 116.9 last week Total adults hospitalized, confirmed COVID-19 positive Seven-day average 10.7 14.3 last week ICU beds Seven-day average 26 same as last week ICU beds used Seven-day average 19.3 same as last week M enifee Global M edical Center Total beds Seven-day average 4 same as last week Total inpatient beds used Seven-day average 43.1 51.1 last week Total adults hospitalized, confirmed COVID-19 positive Seven-day average one reported 7.4 last week ICU beds Seven-day average 10.0 10.7 last week ICU beds used Seven-day average 6.7 9.1 last week W ill F ritz can b e reached b y email at wfritz @ reedermedia. com.

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Temecula City Council approves contract to reconstruct Margarita Recreation Center The city of Temecula approved an agreement Monday, March , with a contractor to reconstruct the Margarita Recreation Center. The .6 million agreement with De La Secura Builders was on the Temecula City Council’s consent agenda March and was approved without discussion. Back in February, the city council authorized the Department of Public Works to begin soliciting proposals for the Margarita Recreation Center reconstruction project – to be constructed in a “design-build” process, meaning a single contractor will both plan and construct the building – from six approved contractors. The city issued a request for proposal to the six firms in July, but according to a staff report, the city was not able to issue a contract as the budget was insufficient to build the new recreation center in a single phase. The city council approved an increase to the budget in ovember and received three proposals, Dec. 23. De La Secura was the firm that won out, as city staff determined their proposal to have the “best value,” according to a staff report. The .6 million design-build agreement with De La Secura, approved March , includes about 565,000 for design, 7.4 million for construction and profit of around 643,000 for the company. According to the city, the agreement provides for the design, environmental clearance and construction of the new recreation center and demolition of the existing one. The new recreation center will

be about ,600 square feet of indoor space, including a classroom, a multipurpose room, dance fitness room, kitchen, administrative office, aquatic and first aid rooms, locker rooms and restrooms. The new center will also include multiple outdoor patio spaces as well as an accessory structure for pool equipment. The existing, approximately 14,000-square-foot recreation center building was originally a YMCA facility, but the city acquired it when YMCA Riverside City and County went bankrupt and defaulted on its lease with the city – the building sits on cityowned land in Margarita Community Park, adjacent to Temecula Elementary School. City officials were originally leaning toward purchasing the facility from the YMCA for about 1.5 million before their default, but talks fell through when an inspection of the building turned up construction defects, including a crack in the facility’s pool, the Press-Enterprise reported several years ago. The building only opened in 2009; the city ended up with it in 2012. Since then, several assessments of the building regarding retrofitting, repair and expansion have taken place since the city purchased the building “to address building deficiencies along with the need to expand uses of the facility,” the staff report said. A needs assessment completed in 2017 determined that a complete demolition of the existing building and replacement with a new structure and pool was the best possible path forward. W ill F ritz can b e reached b y email at wfritz @ reedermedia. com.

BROWN f rom page A-1 many important milestones that have greatly improved the Fire, Rescue and Emergency Medical Services we provide to the community,” he said. Brown was selected as interim fire chief for the Fire Department, Dec. 3, 2014, and appointed as the city’s permanent fire chief, April 15, 2015. Brown came to Hemet with extensive fire service experience, previously having served with the Orange County Fire Authority for 35 years. He started his career with the California Department of Forestry and also worked for the Orange County Fire Department before the Orange County Fire Authority was formed in 1995. While leading the Hemet Fire Department, Brown has been instrumental in providing plans to the city council that expanded the delivery of fire-based paramedic services at Station 5 in East Hemet, and Station 4 in West Hemet. He was instrumental in formulating plans for the department’s expansion after Measure U was passed by the residents including the hiring of additional firefighter paramedics and administrators. The city instituted paramedic services under Brown’s tenure, and two comprehensive operational strategic studies were completed during Brown’s tenure. The city prioritized front-line safety equipment replacement including self-contained breathing apparatus, fire hose and rescue equipment. Enhancements and upgrades to fire apparatus have been ongoing, and a new fire apparatus scheduled for delivery in 2021 will promote a focus on firefighter safety and emergency response. Implementation of a formal

command structure, which included the establishment of the battalion chief position, provided the necessary management structure for day-to-day administrative and emergency incident management. Most recently, and in conjunction with the Police Department, Brown helped lead the charge to replace the antiquated 911 emergency radio system and the department began budgeting for a portion of its share of dispatch operations. Brown extended his thanks to the community members of the city. “Together, we have enhanced firefighter safety and operational readiness and the Department will continue to strive to improve community safety,” Brown said. “ one of this would have been possible without the steadfast support of our community who overwhelmingly supported Measure U’ in 2016 which enabled us to fund critical public safety priorities for the fire department. It is on that note that I would like to personally thank the Hemet community, as it has been the highest honor to serve you. “Each and every day I have felt privileged to lead our team on your behalf, I am forever grateful to have been given that honor,” he said. “The city would like to extend our thanks to Chief Brown for his service to the community,” Christopher Lopez, Hemet city manager, said. “The city offers its best wishes in his well-deserved retirement.” Brown’s last day with the department was Friday, March 12, and the city will begin a recruitment for its next fire chief in the near term. Tony Ault can b e reached b y email at tault@ reedermedia.c om.

Will Fritz ASSOCIATE EDITOR

M arch 1 9 , 20 21 • www. m yva lleynews. co m

• Valley News

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• M arch 1 9 , 20 21

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Riverside County eyes coronavirus red tier movement next week City News Service SPECIAL TO VALLEY NEWS

Indoor dining should soon return to Riverside County, with health officials confirming Sunday, March 14, they will permit restaurants to again welcome customers into their dining rooms at limited capacity if the county moves into the lessrestrictive tier of the state’s reopening plan by midweek as expected. If current trends continue, the county is headed toward the red tier of the state’s “Blueprint for a Safer Economy” Tuesday, March 16, after press time, with loosened restrictions slated to go into effect beginning Wednesday, according to the Riverside University Health System. “We welcome these loosening restrictions on our businesses and urge everyone to practice the necessary safety precautions,” county Board of Supervisors Chair Karen Spiegel said. “We’re getting closer

to the red tier when even more businesses can reopen or increase operations. We can safely do so when we’re wearing masks, avoiding gatherings and practicing good hygiene.” Under the new designation, indoor operations will also be allowed to resume at gyms, zoos, museums, movie theaters, places of worship and more, also with capacity restrictions. Under ov. avin ewsom’s latest guidelines, counties will be able to move out of the most restrictive, purple tier of the blueprint when their average rate of daily new COVID-19 infections reaches 10 per 100,000 residents – a looser standard than the current seven per 100,000 residents. Riverside County’s state-adjusted infection rate hit .3 per 100,000 residents this week, compared to 11.3 per 100,000 last week. This downward shift in infection data previously prompted loosened re-

strictions on youth and adult sports, and allowed for in-person learning to resume in some school districts. With 191 additional infections reported Friday, March 12, the aggregate number of coronavirus cases recorded since the public health documentation period began in March 2020 was 291, 66, compared to 291,675 on Wednesday. Friday’s data includes figures from the previous day as well due to the California Department of Public Health’s Reportable Disease Information Exchange portal experiencing an issue Thursday. RUHS does not provide updated coronavirus statistics on weekends. Officials said there were 3,971 deaths from virus-related complications in the past 12 months, 30 more than two days ago. The fatalities are trailing indicators because of delays processing death certificates. The number of known active virus cases countywide was 5,009

Friday, down 557 from Wednesday. The active count is derived by subtracting deaths and recoveries from the current total – 291, 66 – according to the county Executive Oﬃce. Veriﬁed patient recoveries countywide are now at 2 2, 6. RUHS data showed COVIDpositive hospitalizations numbered 234 on Friday, down 20 from Wednesday, and that included 56 intensive care unit patients – two more than Wednesday. The coronavirus positivity rate in Riverside County hit 4.1 this week, the lowest it has been since early October. The rate was 5. last week. Countywide ICU bed availability was roughly 20 , back to where it was at the end of ovember and before the governor’s stay-at-home order impacting the entire Southern California region. The threshold established for triggering the order was 15 or less overall ICU availability.

Vaccination of seniors continues to be a priority, but others who qualify under the CDPH Phase 1 guidelines include hospital workers, ﬁrst responders, food service workers, teachers and some agricultural workers. RUHS’ Dr. eoﬀrey Leung told the board of supervisors Tuesday, March 9, that beginning March 15, residents 1 to 64 years old with underlying medical conditions, as well as most people with disabilities, will be eligible for vaccinations. Leung said conditions might include “type-2 diabetes and lung disease.” “The CDPH is continuing to work on the guidelines,” he said. The portal to make an appointment for vaccination can be accessed via http www.rivcoph.org COVID-19-Vaccine. Anyone who needs assistance may also call the county’s 211 help line.

Hemet council returns Rancho Diamante specific plan amendment to planning commission Tony Ault STAFF WRITER

A speciﬁc plan amendment requested by Rancho Diamante was sent back to the Hemet Planning Commission for further review on questions of traﬃc ow made by the Hemet City Council at the

regular council meeting, March 9. The continuation of the second reading of the amendment was made after Councilmember Linda Krupa and others questioned the “new” Warren Road, wanting to eliminate the current planned alignment of the roadway and create a commercial site in the area

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and extending Mustang Way from Warren Road to Stetson Avenue. It also includes a general plan amendment that would change the classification of Warren Road from a six-lane highway to a four-lane secondary highway. The question revolved around how the traffic would be increased considering the new housing developments and if the reduction of the six-lane primary highway to a four-lane secondary highway that was previously planned. The council questioned if enough traffic studies had been made to determine how the change would affect the traffic pattern. A developer representative said as far as he knew it had been done and was approved by the commission and Riverside County Transportation Commission. The planning commission was asked to look into the question before returning it for a continuation of the second reading and final approval by the council. Rancho Diamante is on the Page Ranch is located south of Stetson Avenue, west of Solera Warren Road and east of the San Diego Aqueduct. It would include the subdivision of 245.07 acres into 5 6 single-family residential lots having a 5,000-square-foot minimum lot size on 6.56 acres, and 19.67 acres to support up to 100,000 square feet of commercial

use. The subdivision also includes a 5.62-acre public park, 21 pocket parks totaling 5.12 acres, 21 open spaces totaling 54.15 acres for drainage purposes, 2.5 acres for public street landscaping and 71.37 acres for public street dedications. The pocket parks and drainage system lots will be owned and managed by an HOA. Lot sizes would range from a minimum 5,000 square feet to 10,990 square feet. The pocket parks and drainage system lots will be owned and managed by an HOA in the specific plan according to the report. In other action the council joined with Riverside County Transportation Department in rehabilitating the pavement 1.5 miles of San Jacinto Street south of Florida Avenue. The project could be completed by next year. There was a question if the work would interfere with other street resurfacing and the slurry seal of other streets in the city. The engineering report said the project was not currently identified within the city’s capital improvement program for rehabilitation and funding for the proposed project is not currently identified. By joining with the city, the funding could be reappropriated from current Measure “A” balance toward this project. This reallocation would delay the completion of

the 2020-2021 Citywide Pavement Rehabilitation project to a future year; however, the council was assured those city streets would still be finished. The council in its first reading also decided they would obtain the services of a qualified investment counseling firm to help the city treasurer determine the best places to invest the city’s investment capital in the future. It directed the city manager to solicit proposals and return them to the council within 60 days with a recommendation for a qualified firm to handle the investments and reporting of the city of Hemet along with proposal for these functions to be performed by city staff and appoint an ad hoc committee to review the proposals and to make recommendations to the city council. Earlier in the meeting the council proclaimed March as American Red Cross Month, recognized the Hemet Women’s club 115th anniversary, and Councilmember Malcolm Lilienthal presented several residents who helped clean up city streets without compensation and a number of city nonprofits that have helped it citizens through the years with certificates of appreciation from the city. “There will be more,” Lilienthal said. Tony Ault can b e reached b y email at tault@ reedermedia.c om.

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Temecula 13-year-old is a winning playwright through Playwrights Project Lexington Howe STAFF WRITER

Declan Kallberg, 13, from Temecula recently won the 36th annual festival of Plays by Young Writers through Playwrights Project for his play “Dub Thee Fear.” Kallberg’s play was one of ﬁve to win out of 243 submissions by students statewide. “I was looking for more ways to stay involved with the theater community with reduced opportunities for actors, and so I saw that the Old lobe was doing a playwriting workshop called Community Voices,” Kallberg said. “I took that workshop and eventually Dub Thee Fear’ came out of that workshop.” The workshop was six weeks long. “I didn’t actually start writing Dub Thee Fear’ until a few weeks in,” Kallberg said. The play followed the story of a young boy named Dylan who is at home during the pandemic with his mother, Beth. “They’re both struggling with their own ways of coping, and Dylan has manifested a character whose name is Fear, who is the embodiment of fear, and fear is protecting Dylan and he is sort of a knight in armor in a very homespun way,” Cecelia Kouma, executive director of Playwrights Project, said. “Fear comes to life and we see Dylan and Fear interacting, and then we also then see Beth, Dylan’s mother worrying about him trying to help him move forward but also taking care of all of the necessary things around the house that need to get done as a single mother and her manifestation is worry. “We see Worry following her around as a character and it’s just, it’s comic, it’s sweet and it’s seriSCHOOL f rom

page A-1

All students will attend classes in a part-time “cohort” model in which they will be on campuses for half-days. The board approved an “a.m.p.m.” cohort model for elementary students back in October, which will, once in-person classes begin again, have one group of students sent to school in the morning and another will attend school in the afternoon, ﬁve days a week, minimizing the number of students on campus at any given time. Students would still participate in a period of asynchronous learning – that is, learning that does not take place in real time with an instructor – during the part of the day when they are not on campus. Only sixth grade students who attend classes on elementary campuses will return for in-person learning – all students on middle and high school campuses will remain in a distance learning model for now.

ous too in the sense of how hard these times are, how we kind of let our emotions get the better of us sometimes,” she said. It is the first time Kallberg has entered into the contest. “I’m planning on entering the contest this year too, and I do plan to write more plays at some point in the future,” Kallberg said. Rachael VanWormer, who is the contest coordinator, a past winning playwright and Kallberg’s dramaturge writing mentor, said that Kallberg was an absolute joy to work with. “ He was very, very interested and curious which makes my job so much more fun because there’s so much more to talk about and to explore, and to get all of that into his writing and into the play,” VanWormer said. “I read every single play that comes in and manage all of the scoring and judging and all of that, so the first time I came across the play was probably in June or July when I read it with all the other submissions. “It immediately struck a chord with me. I just was so interested and I was so curious and I was so impressed at the way that these ideas were being expressed through the writing,” she said. VanWormer said she wanted to do a live production of the play. “Before the winners were officially selected, they had oom calls with the playwrights, with the finalists to talk to them a little bit about the possibilities of their script, maybe adding new ideas that they had to improve upon it,” Kallberg said. “They were talking in such a way that they were implying that if I got selected I would get a full production rather than a stage reading, which was a little confusing because according to the contest rules, ages 14 and under

got stage readings rather than full productions, and I’m only 13,” Kallberg said. “As we were talking to Declan, we realized, only halfway in we realized that he hadn’t understood that we were looking at it for a full production as opposed to just a reading, and so it was delightful to see his face light up with surprise,” Kouma said. Since the Playwrights Project decided to move forward with making “Dub Thee Fear” a full production, Kallberg was a part of it every step of the way. “I’ve been to every rehearsal, most of the production meetings, had several meetings with my dramaturg as we gradually revised the script throughout the process,” Kallberg said. “I have at least bore witness to pretty much everything and had a hand in a lot of it.” The play is about 15 minutes long and will be presented virtually with several other plays that also won, March 11-13. Kallberg’s play was be featured Thursday, March 11, for Program A, recommended for audiences 11 and older, and will be featured again Saturday, March 13, when all full productions are performed. For more information, visit https www.playwrightsproject. org productions pbyw . “I really feel like the plays overall this year as a whole are incredibly strong and such a wonderful and accurate re ection of what the last year of the experience of the shutdown and then the pandemic and everything has been across the country,” VanWormer said. Kallberg said he is grateful for all of the support for his play. “I really loved working with The Playwrights Project,” he said. “The feedback of everybody in the project from the director, to the

Some local school districts like Temecula Valley Unified, Murrieta Valley Uniﬁed and Coronaorco Unified are reopening their elementary schools as early as mid-March; those districts, however, applied for waivers to reopen schools while still in the highest “purple” tier of the state’s reopening framework, while Lake Elsinore Uniﬁed did not and is now planning to reopen schools as Riverside County heads into the red tier as is allowed without a waiver. On March 11, LEUSD was expecting its COVID-19 safety plan to be approved by Riverside County health officials Friday, March 12, and by the California Department of Public Health Tuesday, March 16, after first submitting its plan to the county Feb. 26 and receiving revisions in early March. “It was very much like trying to hit a fastball that morphed into a curveball and as it got to home

plate, even the home plate and the ball moved to another location altogether. Very diﬃcult,” school operations director James Judzie-

Declan allberg, 1 , from emecula wins the th annual festival of lays by oung riters through laywrights ro ect with his play Dub hee Fear. Valley News/Shawna Sarnowski photo

actors, to the costume designer has been invaluable, and I’m immensely grateful for their support. The play would not be anywhere near where it is today without all

of them.” Lex ington H owe can b e reached by email at lhowe@ reedermedia. com.

wicz told LEUSD’s board during their March 11 meeting, attributing many of the diﬃculties to shifting guidance and requirements from

the state and county during February and March. W ill F ritz can b e reached b y email at wfritz @ reedermedia. com.

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LOCAL

Menifee Council approves midyear budget increases Tony Ault STAFF WRITER

The Menifee City Council after hearing a midyear budget review made seven new project adjustments amounting to 2.5 million for capital improvements projects including 2.015,729 for the longsought Central Park Amphitheater Project. The council at its March 3 meeting showed approval of the city’s 2020 and 2021 ﬁscal year budget that was well above predictions because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The budget could be increased more, according to the council, since Congress passed the 1.9 trillion bill that will help cities and counties overcome their unanticipated pandemic costs. The report showed the actual revenues were up from what was expected after the pandemic struck, particularly with the sales taxes and the builder development impact fees or developer infra-

structure funds. Sales tax revenues from Measure DD funds were also coming in higher than expected. The building in the city continued during the pandemic which brought positive comments to the staff from the council for their work during the pandemic. Mayor Pro Tem Matt Liesemeyer said the staﬀ acted “above and beyond” in their work. The report showed the other added costs in the CIP budget included 479,99 for the Paloma Wash Trail Improvements and the Paloma Wash Bridge Project for 57,273. Before the pandemic, the city authorized a 65 million budget, and after it was pared down, the budget was set at 5,411, 566, according to the report. With the unanimously approved budget and midyear adjustments in place, it is now at 57,072,729. Other projects outside of the CIP that required adjustments included Holland Road overpass planning,

Fire Station o. 5 improvements, Lazy Creek campus and pavement improvements. Councilmember Dean Deines said he was particularly happy with the improvements coming to Fire Station 5 in his district that was now very overcrowded. The council discussed at length the conceptual design of the Central Park Amphitheater which is estimated to cost approximately 3.9 million when completed sometime by the end of the year. “Wow,” was the general comment from the council after seeing the design proposed. The dome which will cover the already existing cement stage located in the city’s Central Park oﬀ ewport Road. When it is complete according to the design, it will be 25 feet to 30 feet high and 60 feet to 70 feet wide. Specially designed lighting will illuminate the stage at night with a green room for the performers at the rear. Liesemeyer, who was the sec-

ond to speak on the design of the project said, “Wow This is going to be huge.” Councilmember Lesa Sobek said, “I am so proud of it... It will be a signature event for the city.” Bob Karwin, the council’s newest member expressed his concern for the general upkeep of the cover and stage in the future. He heard there would be some, but the materials used were generally weather improved and should last for a long time. Mayor Bill immerman spoke as well, saying he generally approved of the design but was concerned about its cost. “It’s spectacular, but the price is a little high for me,” he said. He asked if there is any way to cut the cost down since the initial idea would only have been a few thousand dollars. He also asked about a 75,000 environmental study and why that had to be done. The environmental study was made according to the city engi-

neer, because of the nearby Paloma Wash and the residents behind the park that were concerned about the noise. The council, after discussion, finally approved the budget adjustments with a unanimous vote. The council, on the request of Sobek, heard three options for some type of memorial for the now 17 residents as of March 3 who had died because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The options included a fish net and rose memorial that would be displayed in the city and taken to Washington by an artist, a kiosk in a city park or rocks or ribbons on trees in the city. After discussion, the council decided on the third option but wanted another interfaith or other organization to take the lead in the project and was finally approved by the full council. Tony Ault can b e reached b y email at tault@ reedermedia.c om.

Hemet City treasurer questions Hemet Council action on finance investment policy Tony Ault STAFF WRITER

Hemet city treasurer ladys Savage voiced her intention to legally halt the Hemet City Council from hiring an investment firm and allowing the city to determine its own investments Thursday, March 4. Savage, recently elected as the city’s treasurer, emailed a letter that she intended to forward to the Riverside County district attorney’s public integrity unit her objection to the city approving an ordinance that allowed the city staﬀ, with the help of an investment counseling ﬁrm, to determine

what and where the city should invest its surplus funds, if any. In particular she questioned an investment, Jan. 12, made by the ﬁnance director with the city manager’s approval to invest in California’s Local Agency Investment Fund that was not introduced to her. She alleged the Hemet city council, not unlike other city councils, is seeking to halt the election of city treasurer’s that have been elected by the people of the communities, using what is called an “emergency ordinance.” Savage was elected by the voting residents of Hemet as the city’s newest city treasurer in ovember.

On March 9, the Hemet City Council voted to have the city manager and staff seek out a reputable investment company to help them, and the city treasurer, determine what the best investments would be for any surplus money. Cities must use any surplus money for needed city projects and can include it in its reserves since they are a nonproﬁt organization. It was recently determined the city had more than 1 million in surplus money to invest. Savage, in her letter to the district attorney’s oﬃce, said the city was not “complicit with CA Code 53607 Resolution 2020-0 3 The investment policy section

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IV A reads Hemet City Council, as permitted under California government coded section 53607 delegates, the responsibility to invest or reinvest the surplus public funds of the city to the city treasurer who shall be responsible for all transactions.’” She argued the local agency’s code that reads “the director of finance is authorized to make investments” can be more restrictive than California code, but it cannot be expansive. She said the council went ahead the move to hire the investment company without informing her. She is asking the court to remove the section about the director of finance and rescind the council’s decision on the finance director’s

ELSINORE f rom

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“The city does retain some limited discretion with the ability to restrict the maximum quantity, size and location and can establish objective standards to govern their design,” he said. He added that the planning commission took unanimous action to recommend approval of this code amendment. This ordinance would repeal and replace in its entirety the entire section, 17.415110 in order to avoid future incompatibilities with certain definitions or some processes as identified in the municipal code and relevant code sections within the government code, Kirk said. “We’ve replaced those specified definitions with reference definitions to circle back to the government code sections,” he said. After distributing the council agenda, the city received correspondence requesting clarification and further modification of the accessory dwelling unit regulations. “The first would be the deletion of the last sentence in section C.4.e,” Kirk said. “This section of code specifically carves out a ministerial process; the last sentence creates a little bit of ambiguity as to its applicability, by removing this sentence it eliminates that ambiguity. Lastly, section D.1 of the same code section talks about a limitation on the number of dwelling units permitted on any one lot. It is a leftover code that should have been eliminated and is recommended to be eliminated as part of the action, according to Kirk. Staff is recommending an adoption of the ordinance incorporating the two reference modifications. The motion passed unanimously. The next item looked at was in regards to an extension of a previously approved sevenmonth, four-day moratorium on the acceptance and processing of entitlement applications for cannabis-related land uses for an additional four months and 24 days. Kirk came forward to make a presentation, and he quickly touched on the background. The council originally adopted an interim urgency ordinance Aug. 11, 2020, imposing a 45-day moratorium on the processing and the acceptance of new applications. That urgency ordinance was

responsibility. She said she would pass the letter on to the council, city manager Christopher Lopez, and finance director Lorena Rocha in an email to the Valley ews. The city council in its March 9 closed session meeting did discuss the item, but nothing came out of the report to the public since it was a legal matter. In an earlier city council meeting, before the ordinance was passed, it was reported Savage did question why the city does not appoint an assistant for her. ow the district attorney’s public integrity unit to determine whether it goes to court or not. Tony Ault can b e reached b y email at tault@ reedermedia.c om. confirmed Aug. 25 and was subsequently extended Sept. 22. The expiration of the moratorium was slated to expire Tuesday, March 16. Staff met previously with the council cannabis subcommittee to discuss the current cannabis program and the current cannabis licensing. The circumstances and conditions that led to the adoptions of the original ordinances to create a moratorium on the processing and acceptance of applications have not been alleviated and continue to create concern, according to staff. There are a limited number of facilities in operation. Currently only seven of 1 permitted facilities are operational. There are three additional licenses pending to be completed – two new applications and one modification. Based upon the findings, the subcommittee recommended to extend the moratorium for an additional four months and 24 days. Further direction was provided to continue monitoring and studying the uses; complete code revisions and present to the subcommittee and complete the processing of an ordinance to amend the municipal code’s provisions regarding cannabis uses to better prevent and protect against the impacts of concentration and proliferation before the expiration of the moratorium and to continue to process the remaining applications. Pursuant to government code section 65 5 , the council may extend the interim ordinance for the balance of one year. The council may extend the moratorium for an additional four months and 24 days. Any extension would require a four-fifths vote, at a noticed public hearing. The proposed extended moratorium would expire Aug. 9. This proposed extension would represent the final extension afforded to the moratorium. The recommendation of staff was to extend the ordinance for the time period as specified in the report previously. The motion passed unanimously. For more information on agenda items, visit http lake-elsinore. granicus.com MediaPlayer. php view id 2 clip id 1455. Lex ington H owe can b e reached b y email at lhowe@ reedermedia. com.

M arch 1 9 , 20 21 • www. m yva lleynews. co m

• Valley News

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Section

EDUCATION March 19 – 25, 2021

www.myvalleynews.com

Volume 21, Issue 12

Soboba bookmobile inspires reading

A young student looks over available books at Soboba Tribal Preschool during Read Across America Day Tuesday, March 2.

Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians SPECIAL TO VALLEY NEWS

Noli Indian School in San Jacinto chose national Read Across America Day to roll out its new bookmobile service for students. Noli principal Donovan Post and staff members made their way to several students’ homes Tuesday, March 2, to offer a wide selection of age-appropriate book titles. “We only served one household at a time,” Post said. “We set up the tables next to our vehicle and used cleaning wipes and other sanitation supplies after each visit. It is a slow process to ensure safety is met but, in the end, we do get to see students again even if it is from 6 feet away.” Noli, which serves students in grades six through 12, has benefited from a reading grant for many years allowing the school to purchase several thousand books to keep its library fresh. Jacquelin Phillips works with middle school students at Noli’s Reading Department and assisted with this year’s book purchases. “We bought books for all ages – preschool to adults,” she said. “We wanted to make sure not just students and their siblings got books, but parents and guardians as well.” oli staff worked at the campus to separate books by age group and reading level so when a student requests a book through their teacher, a presorted box of books they can choose from is loaded into the vehicle for a run to their house. “The entire staff and I believe in the importance of reading at a young age,” Post said. “It sets the tone for a young student’s success in school. If a child has difficulties reading by the fourth grade, it will carry through with them well into high school. If we can create a culture at the school where students do not fear holding books that are a lower grade level, and we have a great support system in place, we

can help any student find a love of reading. This is what we have been trying to do for the past five years.” Phillips added that literacy is important for all ages, no matter one’s reading stage. “Literacy helps develop our reading skills, writing skills and social skills which helps us become well-rounded individuals in society,” she said. As acting preschool director, Post took boxes of books to Soboba Tribal Preschool to help staff and students celebrate Dr. Seuss’ birthday, also March 2. It was the young children who got the benefit of a gift by choosing a free book to take home with them. There were also some mystery gifts they earned by playing a fishing game with teacher Amber Lopez, based on the Seuss classic: “One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish.” Kindergarten teacher Antonia Venegas said the bookmobile gave staff the opportunity to see their students in person and ask them questions about what they would be interested in reading. Only two families were allowed into the tabled books area at a time. The three-hour event, attended by about 50 students and their families, was part of the school’s weeklong celebration of Dr. Seuss. Melissa Vera teaches 3-yearolds and said her favorite part of the bookmobile’s visit was seeing the children come and watch how excited they were to see all the books that were available to them. Post said reading with children at a young age is vital. “If we can provide great books for parents to read to their children, all the better,” he said. “It just makes for a great partnership between the school and the community that we serve.” Read Across America, the nation’s largest celebration of reading, was launched in 1998 by the National Education Association. To learn more, visit http://www. nea.org.

Soboba Tribal Preschool teacher Ana Garcia guides young readers to Dr. Seuss books provided by the Noli Indian School bookmobile.

Soboba ribal reschool sta celebrate a week of Dr. Seuss by highlighting a book giveaway from oli ndian School s bookmobile, including from left, Anita utierre , Lenora onie Mo ado and Donovan ost, Noli principal and preschool director. Valley News/Soboba B and of L uiseñ o I nd ians photo

Riverside County honors Educators of the Y ear with surprise virtual visits RIVERSIDE – Edwin Gomez, Riverside County superintendent of schools, named a high school principal and a school nurse as the next two recipients of the 2021 Riverside County Educators of the Year awards in virtual surprise visits held Friday, March 5, and a confidential administrative assistant as the final 2021 Riverside County Educator of the Year in a virtual surprise visit held Wednesday, March 10. The surprise virtual visits were attended by colleagues, family members, board members, superintendents and school and district employees. Principal of Y ear Esteban Lizarraga is the principal at Citrus Hill High School in the Val Verde Unified School District. He has served 16 years in education, including eight years

as a principal. During his time at Citrus Hill High School, he has been instrumental in developing and implementing the first International Baccalaureate Program in the Val Verde Unified School District. “Esteban’s leadership vision is to build a healthy culture of trust to sustain systematic processes, grow through collaboration, and support student and staff needs,” omez said. “He ensures that every student is challenged by relevant and rigorous instruction by developing and sustaining teams that are able to build trust, master conflict, make commitments, embrace accountability and focus on results.” Site Support Employee of the Y ear Candy Jonasson is a credentialed school nurse serving all school sites within the Moreno

Valley Unified School District. She has worked in education for 20 years and was previously recognized by the Riverside University Health System-Public Health for implementation of a TDaP vaccine program for MVUSD. In her role, she intervenes with student health problems, provides case management services and stays up-to-date on information and trends to improve health care for students and staff. “It’s not why we do our jobs, but it’s really great to be recognized,” Jonasson said. “It is so great to receive this wonderful honor.” Confidential m lo ee of the Y ear Consuelo Rodriguez is a confidential administrative assistant for personnel services at Desert Sands Unified School District. She has worked in education for 12

years with five of them serving as a confidential employee. Her work has afforded her the opportunity to directly connect with employees – whether it be in good times such as assisting with leaves to bond with their newborns, leaves to pursue higher education and promotions and bad times such as their time of loss, mourning, illness and discipline processes. At the end of her career, Rodriguez said she hopes to have made every single employee feel heard, valued and part of the team. Visibly moved by the surprise announcement, Rodriguez said, “I am honored by this recognition and so very grateful. I look up to people; they motivate me to be a better employee, and there are many I look up to in this district. I am so grateful and this is so unexpected.”

The superintendent honored each 2021 educator of the year in surprise visits in February and March. The full list of categories and honorees for the 2021 Riverside County Educators of the Year included Classified Employee of the Year, Aven Callahan, library assistant at McAuliffe Elementary School in Alvord Unified School District; Classified Administrator of the Year, Matt Snellings, executive director of operational support services at the Riverside County Office of Education; School Counselor of the Year, Esther Martinez, school counselor at Monte Vista Middle School in San Jacinto Unified School District; Certificated Administrator of the Year, Timothy see ED U CA T ORS, page B -2

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• M arch 1 9 , 20 21

EDUCATION

How children benefit from being read to TEMECULA – Reading aloud to children is one of the joys of parenting. All children, whether they’re infants, toddlers or schoolaged, can benefit from being read to, and parents whose youngsters have grown up often look back on story time as some of their favorite moments as parents. Reading aloud to children is about more than just establishing a bond between parent and child. According to Reading Rockets, a national public media literacy initiative, children as young as infants can benefit from being read to. Infants can look at pictures as their parents point to them and say the names of the various objects within them. By drawing attention to the pictures and associating words with them and real-world objects, parents are helping infants learn the importance of language. Children of all ages can benefit from being read to, even after they learn to read on their own. The

following are a handful of ways that reading aloud to children can benefit them. Reading to children expands their vocabulary. A 2019 study published in the Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics found that young children whose parents read them five books a day enter kindergarten having heard roughly 1.4 million more words than children who were never read to. The disparity is even significant when comparing children who are periodically read to each day with children who are read five books per day. Children who are read to daily may hear slightly less than 300,000 words before entering kindergarten, while those read five books per day will hear more than 1.4 million words. Reading to children expands their imaginations. The Northern Virginia Family Services said that research has

shown that children who activate their imaginations through being read to develop higher activity in the area of their brain that’s responsible for cultivating mental images and deciphering and comprehending verbal cues. That heightened activity bolsters youngsters’ imaginations and instills in them a greater fondness for reading. Reading can help children learn to focus. Parents of young children no doubt know that such youngsters rarely sit still for any signiﬁcant length of time. However, when being read to, young children, even those who are initially reluctant to engage in story time, will learn to sit still for the duration of the book. That practice can help them learn to focus, a beneﬁt that will pay dividends when children begin school. Reading to children can speak to children’ s interests or

Valley News/Courtesy photo

emotional needs. Reading Rockets said that children’s favorite stories may speak to their emotional needs and interests. That’s why so many youngsters insist on reading a favorite book over and over again. Though

it’s often boring for parents, it can beneﬁt youngsters, who will eventually move on to other books. Reading to children can beneﬁt them in myriad ways and provide a great way for parents to bond with their youngsters.

Evan Batte of Wildomar makes dean’s Thania Rose Villano of list at RIT Winchester named to University ROCHESTER, N.Y. – Evan completed, at least 12 credit hours. computing, engineering, imaging of Hartford dean’s list Batte of Wildomar was named Rochester Institute of Technol- science, liberal arts, sustainability to the dean’s list at Rochester Institute of Technology for the 2020 fall semester. Batte is in the environmental science program. Undergraduate students are eligible for dean’s list if their GPA is greater than or equal to 3.40 for nine credits of traditionally graded coursework; they do not have any grades of “Incomplete,” NE, D or F; and they have registered for, and

ogy is home to leading creators, entrepreneurs, innovators and researchers. Founded in 1829, RIT enrolls about 18,600 students in more than 200 career-oriented and professional programs, making it among the largest private universities in the U.S. The university is internationally recognized and ranked for academic leadership in business,

and ﬁne and applied arts. RIT also offers unparalleled support services for deaf and hard-of-hearing students. The cooperative education program is one of the oldest and largest in the nation. Global partnerships include campuses in China, Croatia, Dubai and Kosovo. Submitted by Rochester Institute of Technology.

WEST HARTFORD, Conn. – The University of Hartford announced Thania Rose Villano of Winchester has been named to its dean’s list for fall 2020. Spread across seven dynamic schools and colleges, the University of Hartford has been guiding the purpose and passion of students for over six decades. On the 350-acre campus, approximately 4,600 undergraduate and 2,000 graduate students representing

49 states and 47 countries come together for a common purpose: to collaborate across different disciplines, diversify perspectives and broaden worldviews with degree programs spanning the arts, humanities, business, engineering and technology, education and health professions. For more information, visit http://hartford.edu. Submitted by University of Hartford.

TEANECK, N. J. – Samantha Cortez of Temecula and Cassidy Triska of Murrieta have been named to the honors lists for the spring 2020 semester at Fairleigh Dickinson University in Teaneck, New Jersey. To qualify for the honors list, a student must carry a 3.5 or better GPA out of a possible 4.0 and be enrolled in a minimum of 12 lettergraded hours. The university features a university atmosphere with an international perspective, attracting students from the U.S. and around the world. Undergraduates have access to the resources of a major

graduate center and New York City as an integral part of their learning experience. Devoted to the preparation of world citizens through global education, Fairleigh Dickinson University is New Jersey’s largest private university and features more than 100 liberal arts and professional degree programs, two international campuses, dozens of partnerships with internationally renowned institutions and special programs and status within the United Nations. For more information, visit http://www.fdu.edu. Submitted by Fairleigh Dickinson University.

Local students make Western New England Students named to the University’s fall 2020 president’s list Having recently celebrated its honors list at Fairleigh SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – More during the unique challenges of our than 500 students have been named fall semester. It is an honor to salute centennial, Western New England to the fall 2020 president’s list our students who have demonstrat- University is a private, indepen- Dickinson University at Western New England Uni- ed an unwavering commitment to dent, coeducational institution. versity. To qualify for the president’s list, students must achieve a GPA of 3.80 or higher, including Lake Elsinore resident Grant Manley, who is working toward a bachelor’s degree in political science and Canyon Lake resident Riley Franzo, who is earning a bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering. “Making the president’s list is a notable achievement under any circumstances, but particularly so

academic excellence,” university president Robert E. Johnson said. “Of the roughly 3,000 colleges and universities tracked by the College Crisis Initiative, Western New England University was among just 27% nationwide that resumed primarily ‘in-person’ teaching last fall. Our president’s list students stayed focused and engaged; they should be very proud of their accomplishments. Well done, Golden Bears.”

Located on a 215-acre suburban campus in Springfield, Massachusetts, Western New England serves 3,690 students, including 2,486 full-time undergraduate students. Undergraduate, graduate and professional programs are offered through Colleges of Arts and Sciences, Business, Engineering, Pharmacy and Health Sciences and the School of Law. Submitted by Western New England University.

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Temecula resident graduates from Kansas State University MANHATTAN, Kan. – More than 1,415 students completed degree requirements from Kansas State University in fall 2020, including Temecula resident Brett Lockwood, who earned a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology. The university awarded 1,139 bachelor’s degrees, 229 master’s degrees, 5 doctorates and ﬁve associate degrees to graduates from 87 Kansas counties, 39 states and 32 countries. Several students earned multiple degrees. ED U CA T ORS f rom

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Walker, assistant superintendent of pupil services/SELPA and Special Education at Riverside Unified School District; Principal of the Year, Esteban Lizarraga, principal of Citrus Hill High School at Val Verde Unified School District; Site Support Employee of the Year, Candy Jonasson, credentialed school nurse at Moreno Valley Unified School District and Confidential Employee of the Year, Consuelo Rodriguez, confidential administrative assistant for personnel services at Desert Sands Unified School District. The Riverside County Educators of the Year were selected from the more than 36,000 educational employees in the county. The application process starts with nominations by teachers, classified employees and school district administrators throughout the county. Applications are then submitted to the Riverside County Office of Education, where an outside selection committee selects the honorees before the county superintendent announcement.

For outstanding academic performance, 209 students earned graduation honors. Of those, 64 students graduated summa cum laude with a GPA of 3.95 or above, 67 students graduated magna cum laude with a GPA of 3.85 to 3.949, and 78 students graduated cum laude with a GPA of 3.75 to 3.849. For more information, visit http://k-state.edu. Submitted by Kansas State University.

The 2021 Teachers of the Year were named in mid-2020 to align with the 2021 California State Teacher of the Year competition. The 2022 Riverside County Teachers of the Year will be announced in May/June 2021, and 2021 Riverside County Teachers of the Year were named in mid-2020. They included Anne-Marie (Annie) Bravo, a third grade teacher at Railway School of Math, Science, and Technology in Perris Elementary School District; Keisa Brown, a seventh and eighth grade teacher of “Intro to Science” and AVID at University Heights Middle School in Riverside Unified School District; Allison Cyr, a third grade teacher at Lyndon B. Johnson Elementary School in Desert Sands Unified School District; Krysten Gonda, a ninth and 12th grade teacher of English language arts and AVID at Desert Mirage High School, Coachella Valley Unified School District. Keisa Brown and Allison Cyr were named 2021 California Teachers of the Year in October 2020. Subm itted by R iverside C ounty Office of Education.

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WINE & DINE

Chef Deden Putra becomes Pechanga Resort Casino’s new executive pastry chef

Chef Deden utra is the new executive pastry chef at echanga Resort Casino. Valley News/P ech anga R esort Casino photo

TEMECULA – Pechanga Resort Casino welcomes pastry and bread artist, cookbook author and wellknown pastry chef Deden Putra as its new executive pastry chef. With more than 20 years of experience as a chef, Putra’s background in the culinary scene brings a diverse set of ideas and creations to the breads, pastries and confections served throughout Pechanga, according to the resort casino. At Pechanga, Putra said he will lead his team of 22 on a journey to ﬁnd the freshest ingredients and

add creative air to some of the guest favorite pastry items. “It’s not how you start; it’s how you ﬁnish. It’s about putting your mind into it and ﬁne-tuning until you get what you want,” he said. Putra competed in several pastry competitions and won many awards throughout the years. Select accolades include runner-up at the Chicago Restaurant Pastry Chef Competition, where he introduced his take on traditional Indonesian desserts to the world, and runner-up and Audience Favorites

Desserts at the Gateaux Pastry Competition, which doubled as a fundraiser to raise money for New Orleans nonproﬁt organizations. Before Pechanga, Putra held pastry chef positions at luxury ﬁve-star resorts such as the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills and the Ritz-Carlton Bacara. His passion for desserts and how they are presented has taken him from Indonesia to some of America’s top tourist destinations such at New York City, Beverly Hills, Santa Barbara and Hollywood. “Pechanga is a great opportunity for me to continue on with my culinary experience,” Putra said. “I’m excited to create that extra surprise and delight to guests through fresh and creative pastries. This is what I do best. I want my team to be a family and inspire each other with our creations and experiences. This is the vision I have for the Pechanga Bakery, and I plan to make this vision come to life. Working for the largest casino and resort property on the West Coast is a dream.” “We’re incredibly excited to have Chef Deden on our team. As a cookbook author who has made national television appearances on the ‘Rachel Ray’ show and others and has been featured in magazine articles such as Esquire, Chef Deden’s credibility and knowledge in the kitchen is unmatched,” Pam Toscano, vice president of food and beverage at Pechanga Resort Casino, said. “Known mostly for his creative air and quality baking, we know he can take Pechanga to another level of culinary excellence in the pastry arena.” Putra graduated with a culinary degree from the National Hotel Institute of Indonesia. He is a member of the American Chef Federation. When he is not creating new takes on the crowd favorites or managing his team of confection-

Give spring salads a fresh spin Family Features SPECIAL TO VALLEY NEWS

With spring and warmer weather comes salad season, offering a perfect canvas for creating refreshing meals and appetizers centered around tasty greens, juicy tomatoes and crave-worthy dressings. Give your salads an update by avoiding the same tired mixes and instead create tasty meals fit for the season. One easy way to up your salad game is by starting with quality ingredients like Fresh Express salad blends, NatureSweet Cherubs Tomatoes and Litehouse refrigerated salad dressings. These fresh, avorful ingredients can be combined in a dish like this Chimichurri Chickpea Salad, a perfect way to go green this spring for nearly any occasion. Part of the appeal of dishing up a homemade salad is the unlimited options you have at your fingertips to make the bowl of greens uniquely “yours.” For many, it means one thing: the more toppings, the better. With grilled chicken, crispy bacon, tomatoes, ripe avocado, hard-boiled eggs, blue cheese and a bed of fresh lettuce, this classic Cobb Salad offers an ideal lunch or a quick family meal. Because both these recipes can be made in 20 minutes or less, they provide simple solutions when short on time. Plus, the fresh ingredients sum up everything spring meals are made of. Find more ways to create easy yet delicious salads at http://litehousefoods.com/iheartsalad. Chimichurri Chickpea Salad Start to finish 15 minutes Servings: 4 Ingredients: • 1 cup fresh cilantro • 2/3 cup fresh parsley

ary artists, he said he likes to spend time with his 2-year-old son playing outdoors. With his recent move to Temecula, he said he is looking forward to becoming active in the local community. Putra also enjoys reading to his son, crafting and drawing with him and playing sports. Putra said his favorite item

to bake for his family are chocolate chip cookies. Baking for his family and company is a Putra family tradition, and he has started to show his son how to bake as well, he said. Submitted by Pechanga Resort Casino.

Wine Country Calendar of Events FRIDAY, MARCH 19 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Reserved Wine Tastings, Ponte Winery

10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Wine Tastings, Wilson Creek Winery

4-7 p.m.

Live Music, Crazy Creek Lite, Lorimar Loft in Old Town Temecula

4-8 p.m.

Fri-Yay! at Danza del Sol Winery

6-9 p.m.

Live Music, Kings of Karma, Lorimar Winery

10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Reserved Wine Tastings, Ponte Winery

10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Wine Tastings, Wilson Creek Winery

SATURDAY, MARCH 20

Noon to 4 p.m.

Live Music, Kings of Karma, Bel Vino Winery

4-7 p.m.

Live Music, JD Priest, Lorimar Loft in Old Town Temecula

6-9 p.m.

Live Music, Kicking Giants, Lorimar Winery

10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Reserved Wine Tastings, Ponte Winery

10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Wine Tastings, Wilson Creek Winery

Noon to 4 p.m.

Live Music, Daring Greatly, Bel Vino Winery

Noon to 4 p.m.

Home Grown Market, Bel Vino Winery

1-4 p.m.

Live Music, David Kopatz, Lorimar Winery

1-4 p.m.

Live Music, Tony Merlo, Prelude at Europa Village

SUNDAY, MARCH 21

UPCOMING: March 25 is Killer Dueling Pianos at Lorimar Winery from 7-10 p.m. March 27 is the UNOde50 Spring 2021 Trunk Show at the Brio Boutique at Bolero at Europa Village. ADVERTISE YOUR EVENTS WITH THE VALLEY NEWS and get exposure to over 140,000 readers! (only $25 per event, calendar items due Friday noon of the week before print)

Music • Bistro • Wine & Beer Winery Hours Sun-Thurs 11-5, Fri 11-8, Sat 10-8 Bistro Hours Sat 12:30-6 & Sun 11-4

20% OFF WINE FLIGHT

Cannot combine with any other offer. Expires 3/31/21.

An Old World Classic

951-676-6414 33515 Rancho California Road Temecula • 92591

www.belvinowinery.com

20% OFF

WINE & GIFT SHOP PURCHASE Cannot combine with any other offer. Expires 3/31/21.

15% OFF BISTRO PURCHASE

Cannot combine with any other offer. Expires 3/31/21.

art of the appeal of dishing up a homemade salad is the unlimited options you have at your ﬁngertips to make the bowl of greens uni uely yours. Valley News/Courtesy photos

• • • • • • •

2 tablespoons dried oregano 2 garlic cloves, minced 1/4 cup red wine vinegar 2/3 cup olive oil 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper 1 can (14 1/2 ounces) chickpeas, drained • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper akes • 1 bag Fresh Express Baby Kale Mix • 1 cup NatureSweet Cherubs Tomatoes, diced • 1 medium avocado, diced • 4 tablespoons Litehouse Avocado Ranch Dressing Directions: In food processor, combine cilantro, parsley, oregano, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt and pepper. Pulse until sauce is smooth. Place chimichurri sauce in small

ive your salads an update by avoiding the same tired mixes and instead create tasty meals ﬁt for the season.

bowl with chickpeas and crushed red pepper flakes; toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate overnight, if possible. Divide kale, tomatoes and avocado between four bowls. Top each bowl evenly with marinated chickpeas. Drizzle with avocado ranch dressing and serve. Cobb Salad Start to ﬁnish 20 minutes Servings: 4 Ingredients: • 3-4 eggs • 1/4 pound bacon • 1 bag Fresh Express Sweet Butter Lettuce • 1 pound grilled chicken • 1 cup NatureSweet Cherubs Tomatoes, halved • 1 ripe avocado, sliced • 1/4 cup blue cheese • 1/4 cup Litehouse Homestyle Ranch Dressing Direction: Bring pot of water to boil. Use slotted spoon to place eggs in water. Boil 10 minutes then transfer to ice bath to stop cooking process. Peel eggs and slice. Heat skillet over medium heat. Dice bacon and add to pan. Sauté until bacon is crispy and fat is rendered, about 7 minutes. Remove from pan with slotted spoon. To assemble salad, start with bed of lettuce. Top with hard-boiled eggs, grilled chicken, tomatoes, avocado, bacon and blue cheese; toss in ranch dressing.

O ne co upon per guest. Coupon ca n not be used with any othe o e pi es / /

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ENTERTAINMENT

There are several workshops to choose from the week of March 19-25 Lexington Howe STAFF WRITER

Editor’s Note: Due to current state and county health orders, residents should call ahead and see if an event is still available before registering or attending. Please comply with county and state health orders, including washing your hands, wearing a face mask and staying 6-feet away from other people while social distancing. Chunky Blanket Workshop The Craft House in Temecula is hosting a chunky blanket workshop Friday, March 19, from 6-9:30 p.m. In this workshop, guests will be shown how to hand knit their own blanket. By the end of this threeand-a-half-hour workshop, guests will have a ﬁnished product. The workshop is B.Y.O.Y. – Bring Your Own Yarn – which means guests can choose the color of their liking. For tickets or more information, visit http://thecrafthousetemecula. as.me/chunkyblanketbyoy. Tiered Tray Workshop AR Workshop in Temecula is hosting their newest specialty

workshop, Farmhouse Tiered Trays, Saturday, March 20, at 11 a.m. The Tiered Tray Workshop includes a two-tiered tray and three DIY accessories of choice to decorate your tray for spring. For tickets or more information, visit http://www.arworkshop.com/ event. M acrame Dog Leash Workshop The Craft House in Temecula is hosting a Macrame Dog Leash Workshop Sunday, March 21, from noon to 2 p.m., where guests will learn how to make their own macrame dog leash. All levels welcome. For more information, visit http:// thecrafthousetemecula.as.me/macramedogleash. Weekend Train and Trolley Rides The Southern California Railway Museum is hosting weekend train and trolley rides throughout March. For more info, visit http://socalrailway.org/scrm-events/weekendrides. Lexington Howe can be reached by email at lhowe@reedermedia. com.

Temecula Valley Historical Society presents Korean War veteran Sgt. Reckless TEMECULA – The Temecula Valley Historical Society invites the public to attend at Zoom presentation Monday, March 22, at 6 p.m. when Richard Leste, a trustee, and docent at the Rancho Santa Margarita y Las Flores, will speak about Sgt. Reckless, a decorated veteran of the Korean War. What is remarkable about this veteran is that she was a packhorse that performed acts of service for the United States Marine Corps. Leste served in active duty for

the U.S. Marine Corps from 1964 through 1967 and was discharged from active service as a sergeant. The link to the Zoom presentation will be available at http:// www.temeculahistoricalsociety. org. For any questions regarding this presentation, contact Rebecca Marshall Farnbach at info@temeculahistoricalsociety.org or at 951-775-6057. Submitted by Temecula Valley Historical Society.

JDS Creative Academy celebrates women’s ‘Spirit of Innovation’ and encourages awareness

DS Creative Academy honors ational omen s History Month in March by working to diminish female and disabled stigmas in science, technology, engineering, arts and math careers. Valley News/Courtesy photo

TEMECULA – March offers many reasons to celebrate. In fact, JDS Creative Academy started the month oﬀ by raising a glass to all women past, present and future as March is National Women’s History Month. The nonproﬁt said they recognize all women’s achievements and encourages empowerment far beyond the observed holiday. JDS Creative Academy, which was co-founded by Diane Strand, is made up of more women than men in a male-dominated industry. JDS Creative Academy said that women should have the same opportunities as men and work toward diminishing workplace stigmas, especially in science, technology, engineering, arts and math careers. Not only do women experience discrimination because of their gender, so do adults with disabilities. The unemployment rate among people with disabilities remains high and is down by about 2% since the previous year. According to the website Workology, 35% of young adults with autism are employed. With the right education and awareness, the world could help break down existing barriers, especially when months like March and April come around. Developmental Disabilities

Awareness Month is observed in March, and Autism Awareness Month is in April. Both events are close to the heart of those at JDS Creative Academy, Strand said, because these two celebrated populations are the main motive behind their successful job-training program. The program is in place to provide a safe place for adults with intellectual disabilities to learn and advance their education, training and opportunities in visual, performing and digital arts. It also enriches workforce development to provide career pathways in a competitive high-tech industry marketplace. As Riverside County continues to grow and develop, JDS Creative Academy provides sustainable work opportunities for an underrepresented population. The county also continues to support individuals who provide workforce development and aims to bring awareness to innovation and entrepreneurship in Riverside County by dedicating April as Innovation Month. JDS Creative Academy showcases innovation through collaborating with mainstream and special needs individuals through their hands-on job-training program. Innovation is also displayed at their

annual digital-media festival, DigiFest Temecula. DigiFest, a three-day annual digital arts festival held April 1618, celebrates all things digital by presenting screenings and entertainment, celebrity guest speakers, ra e prize drawings and of course, a competition open to all creative levels. DigiFest will feature three women as speakers, including one with disabilities. Tickets for DigiFest went on sale Monday, March 15. The submission deadline for the digital competition is Monday, March 22. JDS Creative Academy said it hopes to encourage community members to spread awareness and kindness wherever they go as April is Random Act of Kindness Month. In the “Spirit of Innovation” and in an effort to make a difference, JDS Creative Academy invited the community to support their efforts by telling friends and family about JDS Creative Academy and DigiFest. Share, like and/or comment on JDS Creative Academy’s social media content, use the hashtag #JSDFamily or attend one of the many events happening throughout the year. By supporting JDSCA, you are helping a creative, innovative and inclusive community of all people. Submitted JDS Creative Academy.

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Submissions Close March 22, 2021

DigiFest Temecula April 16, 17, 18, 2021

Temecula-based Digital Media Festival welcomes the community and creators alike to immerse themselves in a virtual digital experience. DigiFest Temecula, a stakeholder event in Riverside County’s Innovation Month, is brought to you by nonprofit JDS Creative Academy. 2021 marks the fifth year of this event celebrating all things digital. This three-day festival kicks off April 16, 17, 18, 2021. The virtual festival will offer screenings and entertainment, noteworthy celebrity guest speakers, amazing raffle prizes, and of course, a

competition, open to all creative levels! Submissions close on March 22, 2021. The event will start at 7:00 PM on Friday, April 16th with our Key Note presentation and Live Q&A featuring G. Anthony Joseph, an A-list actor on many top Television network series and the Executive Producer at Tritan NorthStar Entertainment, with several motion picture box office successes under his belt, followed by amazing entertainment and raffles. Saturday, April 17th, will feature Ashley Eakin, a filmmaker with a physical disability

who is achieving success in a competitive industry by fighting for more disability representation, and Hayden Evans, an Artist, Illus-

brings 10 years of experience in digital, editorial, and social media to the table, and Tommy Wilson, a professional baseball player for the

love that our festival has ”Igrown as quickly as it has.

While we are all looking forward to in-person events again, being virtual has allowed our reach to grow not only nationally but also internationally.

”

– Diane Strand, DigiFest Founder

trator & Caricaturist! On Sunday, April 18th, we have a presentation from Erin La Rosa, a marketing guru who

Mets and an amazing Digital Artist. Film and video screenings will be shown each day. We will wrap up Sunday, April

18th, with a grand prize raffle, People’s Choice Awards, honorable mentions, and our acclaimed Digi Awards. The three-day experience was created when there was a void in the community after Temecula’s International Film and Music Festival ended. Founded in 2017, DigiFest Temecula is a vehicle for the community and region to come together to learn about industry advancements, how to pursue a career in the industry and the opportunity to truly experience digital media in many creative and artistic forms.

Get your tickets starting March 15, 2021 at DigiFestTemecula.org and mark your calendars for April 16, 17, 18, 2021

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HOME & GARDEN

Take on do-it-yourself vehicle maintenance TEMECULA – During the COVID-19 pandemic, many people looked for ways to save money, taking on more do-it-yourself projects. In addition to lawn and garden upkeep and minor home improvements, people may tackle some auto repair and maintenance jobs at home. Perform routine vehicle maintenance tasks on one’s own to reduce automotive expenditures. The following are several vehicle maintenance jobs that skilled DIYers could handle on their own or with a friend’s help. e lace the air filter An air filter should be changed annually or more frequently if you reside in a dry, dusty climate. A clogged filter can stress the vehicle’s air conditioning system and reduce heat capacity in the winter. Check the location of the air filter in the owner’s manual; pay attention to how it is placed before removing. Then replace it with a w

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clean ﬁlter that can be purchased for around $15. Replace the wiper blades. When wiper blades are wornout, visibility in rainy or snowy weather is reduced. Choose a quality wiper blade, as they usually are made with high-quality rubber, clean better and have more UV protection than manufacturerprovided blades. Follow the installation instructions on the package, and be sure to refer to the particular manufacturer’s buying guide to get the right size for your make and model of vehicle. Replace spark plugs. The money management site Money Crashers said spark plugs need to be replaced after around 30,000 miles or as indicated by your owner’s manual. Vehicles will have four, six or eight plugs, depending on how many cylinders the car has. The plugs need to be changed in a certain order, so only remove the ﬁrst wire and

spark plug. Remove and replace plugs one by one with a spark plug socket, wrench or ratchet. Chan e the oil and oil filter Because changing the oil in a vehicle requires jacking up the car or truck and getting a little dirty, some people prefer to leave it to an oil change center. At an estimated cost of $20 versus nearly double or more what you’ll spend elsewhere, however, it can save money to do it yourself. Never change the oil while the engine is hot. And remember to lubricate the rubber gasket on the new oil filter and allocate enough oil to fill the filter with about two-thirds of new oil in addition to what is put in the engine. Replace headlight bulbs. Replacing headlight bulbs is a fairly easy project and will only take around 10 minutes to replace after purchasing the right bulbs for the vehicle. Each vehicle is different, but many bulbs are housed

erform routine vehicle maintenance tasks on one s own to reduce Valley News/Courtesy photo automotive expenditures.

inside of a bulb holder, which is shaped like a trapezoid with three wires coming out of it, according to U.S. News & World Report. Remove the old bulb and put in the new. Plug the wires back in and

test to see if the headlight works. Basic automotive tasks are some that people can try to complete themselves to save time and money.

ANZA VALLEY

OUTLOOK

NFPA addresses arc flash events in ‘Faces of Fire’ electrical hazard awareness video campaign series

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

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WILL FRITZ, Associate Editor STEPHANIE PARK, Copy Editor J.P. RAINERI, Sports Editor SHANE GIBSON, Staff Photographer TONY AULT, Staff Writer DIANE SIEKER, Staff Writer LEXINGTON HOWE, Staff Writer JOE NAIMAN, Writer ROGER BODDAERT, Writer

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MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. BOX 391353, Anza, CA 92539 PHONE: (760) 723-7319 PHONE: (951) 763-5510 FAX: (760) 723-9606 ANZA VALLEY OUTLOOK (ISSN 0883-6124) is a legally adjudicated paper, AKA AMERICAN OUTLOOK, is published weekly by the The Village News, Inc., 1588 S. Mission Rd. #200, Fallbrook, CA 92028. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Anza Valley Outlook, P.O. Box 391353, Anza, CA 92539. A N Z A VA L L E Y O U T L O O K I S N O T RESPONSIBLE FOR THE CORRECTNESS OF OPINIONS OR INFORMATION OR ERRORS PRINTED IN THIS PAPER, OR FOR ANY JOB, SERVICE OR SALES ITEM. IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO CHECK OUT ALL ADS. Anza Valley Outlook is a newspaper of general circulation printed and published weekly in the City of Anza, County of Riverside, and which newspaper has been adjudged a newspaper of general circulation by the Superior Court of the County of Riverside, State of California, March 14, 1986; Case Number 176045

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QUINCY, Mass. – The National Fire Protection Association and the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors introduce an additional, ﬁnal video interview of its “Faces of Fire/Electrical series,” which features personal stories of people impacted by electrical incidents and demonstrates the need for continued education and awareness about electrical hazards in the workplace and at home. In August 2004, Don Johnson, an electrician from Florida, was at work connecting a client’s backup generator for use during an impending hurricane when a failure of his rotation tester or a loose clip shorted out in a 4,000 amp/480volt switchgear section he was working on, creating an arc ash event that destroyed much of the equipment and blew him against a wall nearly killing him. Johnson survived but suﬀered third-degree burns on his face, neck and arms and spent years recovering from his injuries. Arc ash, also known as ashover, is the light and heat produced as part of an arc fault, and a type of electrical explosion or discharge that results from an unintended electrical connection through the air to ground or another phase of the electrical system. An arc ash is one of the most devastating and deadly electrical hazards present in today’s workplace; it can produce

temperatures as high as 35,000 degrees and cause severe burns, hearing loss, eye injuries, skin damage from blasts of molten metal, lung damage and blast injuries. An NFPA report estimated that ﬁve to 10 arc ash incidents occur every day, and more than 2,000 people are treated annually in burn centers with arc ash injuries. “Electrical professionals face numerous hazards every day on the job, including shock, electrocution, arc ash and arc blast, therefore it is critical that employers and workers take a shared responsibility for safety protection including the creation and implementation of an electrical safety program,” Lorraine Carli, vice president of outreach and advocacy of NFPA, said. “The ‘Faces of Fire’ electrical campaign reminds us that ignoring even basic safety rules can lead to serious injuries and death.” Both shock and arc flash, in addition to other electrical hazards have been the focus of NFPA 70E, Standard for Workplace Electrical Safety and Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards since the late 1970s. NFPA 70E emphasizes the importance of performing a solid risk assessment that examines all aspects of the hazards to which employees are exposed

and provides a tool to determine how best to mitigate the potential danger. “Faces of Fire” electrical campaign features personal stories of electrical burn survivors whose lives have been forever altered and how more understanding, training, and a change in work culture could have significantly impacted these outcomes. Woven into these stories of resilience is an additional interview with a physician dedicated to the complete physical and emotional healing of patients suffering from a burn injury. A recent NFPA podcast featured three renowned doctors whose research and work with electrical burn patients helps explain what a powerful shock can do to the body, the treatments available and how an understanding of these injuries is continuing to evolve. Through these interviews, written profiles and related information, “Faces of Fire/Electrical” is a resource for electrical and non-electrical workers, and the general public to learn more about the importance of electrical safety. While many electrical injuries prove fatal, those that are not can be particularly debilitating, oftentimes involving complicated recoveries and lasting emotional and physical impact. The “Faces of Fire/Electrical” campaign ultimately works to help build a

safer world by teaching others and supporting the burn survivor community in advancing lifelong healing, optimal recovery, and burn and injury prevention. Since his injury, Johnson has returned to his company as a service manager and continues to advocate for electrical workplace safety. Visit http://www.nfpa.org/ facesoﬃre to watch the videos. Free resources are now available to download and share, and additional information about the “Faces of Fire/Electrical” campaign can be found on NFPA’s website. Founded in 1896, NFPA is a global self-funded nonprofit organization devoted to eliminating death, injury, property and economic loss due to fire, electrical and related hazards. The association delivers information and knowledge through more than 300 consensus codes and standards, research, training, education, outreach and advocacy and by partnering with others who share an interest in furthering the NFPA mission. For more information, visit http://www.nfpa.org. All NFPA codes and standards can be viewed online for free at http:// www.nfpa.org/freeaccess. Submitted by National Fire Protection Association.

How to sell a car safely TEMECULA – More and more auto buyers are considering and purchasing preowned vehicles. According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, used vehicle sales in the United States have risen every year since 2013. The increase in used car sales over the last decade reflects a growing confidence among consumers that preowned vehicles are reliable and worth buyers’ investment. Though many dealerships now offer sizable inventories of preowned vehicles, private citizens can still sell vehicles on their own. Car owners hoping to do so can consider the following tips to ensure the process is safe and smooth. Fix any issues with the vehicle. The competition to attract buyers’ attention will be steep. Private sellers will have to contend with the hesitation buyers naturally have about preowned vehicles as well as dealerships that specialize in used car sales. Dealerships typically offer preowned vehicle warranties that guarantee the life of certain components. To compete against such offerings, private sellers must make every effort to fix issues with their vehicles before putting them up for sale. Mechanical issues must be addressed, but cosmetic issues like cracks in the windshield, dents or scratches on the vehicle exterior and even aging tires should be fixed replaced as well. Prepare a maintenance portfolio. A portfolio of maintenance receipts can impress buyers and reassure them that the car has been

well-maintained. Receipts for oil changes, annual tuneups, repairs that were made and receipts for new tires can be included in the portfolio. Screen prospective buyers. The automotive experts at Kelley Blue Book recommended that sellers insist on speaking with serious buyers over the phone before scheduling a test drive. Such conversations give sellers a chance to vet buyers about what they’re looking for and whether or not they’ve arranged financing. KBB advised sellers to be wary of buyers who offer to purchase vehicles sight unseen. Contact your insurance provider. Prospective buyers will want to test drive the vehicle, so contact your insurance provider to confirm that your coverage extends to other drivers. Some companies may request that you get a copy of prospective buyers’ driver’s licenses. If such a request is made by your provider, mention that to buyers when speaking with them on the phone. M eet at a public location. When scheduling a test drive, insist on meeting at a public location away from your home, such as a grocery store parking lot. The test drive can begin and end at this location. This measure is designed to keep sellers safe. nsist ers ma e financial arrangements on their own. When a buyer agrees to purchase the vehicle, KBB recommended that sellers insist they make financial arrangements on their own. In addition, KBB sug-

Car owners hoping to sell their vehicles can ensure the process is safe and smooth for buyers. Valley News/Courtesy photo

gested asking buyers to put down a deposit and get back in touch when they’re ready to conclude the sale.

Private sellers can take various measures to ensure the process of selling their vehicles goes safely and smoothly.

M arch 1 9 , 20 21 • www. m yva lleynews. co m

• Valley News

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS N o t i c e t o o u r r e a d e r s : Events and businesses are under state orders for social distancing and recommendations to wear face masks to reduce the spread of COVID-19, please contact event sponsors before attending for the latest updates. CHILDREN’ S EVENTS: M arch 19-25 – 4 p.m. Murrieta Flag Football Clinic, directed by Kaseem Jones, will be held at Los Alamos Hills Sports Park, 37000 Ruth Ellen Way, in Murrieta. Open to boys and girls, ages 7 to 12, the clinic program will focus on skills development, building and improving the fundamentals. It is not a league. The cost is $85. For more information, call 951-696-5030. M arch 2 3 – 2-3 p.m. and 4-5 p.m. Tasty Tuesdays offers free cooking lesson through the Temecula Teen Zone Tuesdays, March 23, April 6 and April 20 on Zoom. Participants will learn how to make recipes that are available on Teen Zone Google Classroom. The week before the Zoom cooking lesson, participants will receive a link to a video identifying the ingredients and supplies needed, as well as the Zoom login link. To register, visit http://TemeculaCA. gov/Register. For additional information, call 951-694-6410. COM M U NITY EVENTS: M arch 19 – Daytime. Enjoy a free photo shoot at Rose Haven Heritage Garden, 30592 Jedediah Smith Road, in Temecula. Capture yourself, your loved ones and your furry family members with a photoshoot at Rose Garden. Open certain hours. For more information, call 951-693-2814. M arch 19 to April 18 – Participate in a Virtual Run Hike Ride on the Santa Rosa Plateau in Murrieta to benefit the Santa Rosa Plateau Nature Education Foundation. Run, hike or ride anywhere, anytime or through the winding oak-lined trails at the Sylvan Meadows trail area on the Santa Rosa Plateau. The event offers a 5K or 10K for runners, hikers and bicycle or horseback riders. With one adult registration, children 12 and under are free. Registration fees for the 5K or 10K are $40 for general public and for $30 SRPNEF members. The half-marathon and family event is $45 for general public and for $35 SRPNEF members. Teams of 20 more are $15 per person. Register at SRPNEF at http://www.srpnef. org or https://runsignup.com/Race/ CA/Murrieta/SantaRosaPlateauRunHikeRide. M arch 19 to April 4 – 9 p.m. Residents can participate in the Step into Spring 5K Run sponsored by the Temecula Community Services Department. A swag bag pickup will be held March 19 from 5-7 p.m. at the Temecula Community Recreation Center, 30875 Rancho Vista Road. To register, visit http://TemeculaCA. gov/Register. For more information, call 951-694-6410 or email FIT@TemeculaCA.gov. M arch 20 – 8 a.m. to noon Attend the Hemet Farmers Market at 135 E. Florida Ave. in Hemet. Find food trucks, food vendors, fresh

flower baskets, local produce, handmade soaps, hand sewn items, custom T-shirts, body creams, pet clothes, face masks, self-defense tools, handmade jewelry, and more. M arch 2 2 – 6 p.m. The Temecula Valley Historical Society invited the public to attend a Zoom presentation as retired Marine Sgt. Richard Leste, trustee and docent at the Rancho Santa Margarita y Las Flores, will speak about Sgt. Reckless, a packhorse and a decorated veteran of the Korean War in the U.S. Marine Corps. The link to the Zoom presentation will be available at http://www.temeculahistoricalsociety.org. For more information, contact Rebecca Farnbach at info@temeculahistoricalsociety.org or at 951-775-6057. M arch 2 8 – 2 p.m. Eq-Wine Trail Riders will tour Vail Ranch Headquarters, 32115 Temecula Parkway, in Temecula. For more information, call 951-395-0904. Face masks are required. April 23 – 11 a.m. Register for the 11th annual FORE the Animals Golf Tournament at Canyon Lake Golf and Country Club, 32001 Railroad Canyon Road, presented by Vincerzo’s Olive Tree Restaurant. Enjoy 18 holes of golf, live and silent auctions to beneﬁt Animal Friends of the Valleys. Visit their website to sponsor play. 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 800510-2020 for help. ONGOING – The Riverside County COVID-19 Business Assistance Grant Program is accepting online applications for business grants up to $10,000 at http://www.rivercobizhelp.org that can be used for employee retention, working capital, protective equipment purchases, rent of mortgage payments and paying vendor notices. Eligible businesses, including nonproﬁts, must be in Riverside County, with less than 50 employees and a minimum of 1 and operating for at least one-year since March 1. For more information, call Riverside County Business and Community Services at 951-955-0493. ONGOING – 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The Temecula Winchester Swap Meet continues at 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 at 4100 Main St. in Temecula; at Promenade Temecula, 40640 Winchester Road, outside JCPennys 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 of Disease Control and Prevention and Riverside County Public Health orders, the farmers markets will be restricted agriculture products only. Follow the Old Town Temecula Farmers Market on Facebook to stay updated. No pets are allowed. WORK SHOPS, M EETINGS and ANNOU NCEM ENTS: M arch 19 – 10 a.m. “Branding your small business” is a threeweek webinar presented by the city of Menifee. See http://cityofmenifee.us or call 951-672-6777. M arch 19 – San Bernardino National Forest seeks comments on two state grants to fund off-highway vehicle operations. Comments must be submitted to California State Parks via their website under the “Grants” by 5 p.m. Monday, May 3. Forest Service staff will review the public comments and submit their final grant applications by June 7. M arch 19 – 2:30-3:30 p.m. Chess Club meets at the Wildomar Library, 34303 Mission Trail, in Wildomar. All ages and experience are welcome. Learn how to play chess or practice your chess skills. It’s never too late to learn. Call or email the Wildomar Library to register. M arch 19 – Go-Biz is hosting webinars for businesses interested in applying for millions in tax credits. The deadline is upcoming. Applications are available at http:// www.calcompetes.gov. For more information, visit the website or call 916-322-4051. M arch 19 – Menifee Coronavirus Memorial and Peace Garden opened at 30268 Civic Center Drive in Menifee, sponsored by the Interfaith Council and local businesses. M arch 20 – 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Craft Brewing Company celebrates its food trailer grand opening. The public is invited to 530 Crane St., in Lake Elsinore. The CBC is releasing a Double Dry Hopped Double Hazy IPA. M arch 20 – 8:30 a.m. to noon. Take a First aid and CPR class at the Little Red Barn indoor playground at 33050 Antelope Road, Suite 210, in Murrieta with instructor Diana for children age 9 and up and adults. The cost is $50. Find more information on Facebook M arch 2 0 – 8:30-11:45 a.m. Hear “Insights on Christian Patriarchy” by Phil Chavez at Holy Martyrs Catholic Church, 39022 Sky Canyon Drive, in Murrieta. M arch 2 2 – 12:30-1:30 p.m. Professional Women’s Toastmasters in Temecula celebrates its fifth anniversary with a virtual celebratory meeting Monday, March 22. In honor of the occasion, Suzanne Leonard, program quality director of the Toastmasters District 12, will be a guest speaker. For more information, email Brooke Nunn,

vice president of public relations, at vppr-5077319@toastmastersclubs.org or visit http://www. professionalwomen.toastmastersclubs.org. M arch 2 2 – 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Learn how to harvest and prepare recipes from wild edible plants growing all around with Sand n’ Straw Community Farm, 625 Mar Vista Drive in Vista. Register for the class at https://www.sandnstraw.com/. M arch 2 2 – 6:30-9:30 p.m. Comfort for Labor Class for pregnant women at Rancho Springs Medical Center, 25500 Medical Center Drive, in Murrieta is taught by an active doula. The one-time class allows expectant parents to spend time practicing labor comfort techniques. Emphasis is placed on breathing, relaxation, massage and other methods. The cost is $50, pay at the door. Register with instructor Sheri Brodie, RN, CCE, CD, at https://www. ranchospringsmedcenter.com/ or call 800-879-1020. April 13 – 10 a.m. Menifee Community Partners will meet on Zoom. Use the link to join at https://cityofmenifee-us.zoom. us/j/88078133176?pwd=bDl0NW hsRFNZcXFwVEdTMHFMR1A1 UT09 with Meeting ID: 880 7813 3176 and Password: 868646. Dial in with +1 669-900-6833 US (San Jose) For more information, email Chelsea Bollinger at cbolliner@ cityofmenifee.us. ONGOING – Noon to 1 p.m. Attend Murrieta Wildomar Chamber of Commerce’s weekly business briefing via oom or watch live on Facebook every Wednesday. Register required at https://bit. ly MWCBizBriefing. The chamber business briefing is an opportunity to hear from city, county and business leaders about current and relevant business information. ONGOING – Everything KETO classes. These interactive step-by-step workshop and classes on Zoom will guide students to begin this new way of eating and learn how to easily steer their decision-making for effective results. For more information and to register, visit http://www. cityofmenifee.us/register or call 951-723-3880. ONGOING – Menifee Community Services offers online driver’s education courses with a $21.95 fee. The course includes animated driving scenarios, instructional videos, sample test, licensed instructor available to answer questions, DMV approved certificate of completion with all lectures and exams completed from home. Designed for students and does not include behind-the-wheel instruction or a California driver’s permit. Contact 951-723-3880 or visit the city of Menifee to register at http:// www.cityofmenifee.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 – Local National Association of Female Entrepreneurs group helps women grow both personally and professionally and meets monthly. Contact Robbie Motter, the NAFE global coordinator, at 951-255-9200 or rmotter@aol.com for information about future meetings after the coronavirus restrictions are lifted. ONGOING – Hemet/Winchester National Association of Female Entrepreneurs meets monthly. For new meeting dates and destinations, contact director Joan Wakeland at 909-721-7648 or email Joanewakeland@gmail. com. Lake Elsinore/Murrieta/ Wildomar NAFE also meets each month in Lake Elsinore with director Sandie Fuenty. Call Fuenty at 714-981-7013 or email sandiesldy@aol.com to learn when meetings will resume. 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 http:// www.foodaddicts.org. ONGOING – The Murrieta Garden Club meets each month at the Murrieta Community Center, 41810 Juniper St., in Murrieta. Anyone who likes to garden or is interested in plants is welcome. Memberships are $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 http://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 http://www.MenifeeToastmasters.org for more information. ONGOING – Sons of Norway/Scandinavia meet the first Saturday of every month from September to June. The virtual meetings are held on Zoom, at 11 a.m. Join Zoom meeting at https:// us02web.zoom.us/j/4232348177? pwd=eDd1SDlDdW5sdVowWUp 1N3pBYmpGZz09 with the Meeting ID: 423 234 817 and passcode: yCp0js. Everyone is welcome to enjoy some virtual company with fellow Scandinavians. For more information, call 951-849-1690. ONGOING – Parent Support Group is available for parents whose children of any age struggle with addiction. Education, skills and support are available in Temecula. For more information, call 951-775-4000 or email info@ thecenter4lifechange.com. ONGOING – The city of Menifee offers a fitness class on Zoom Mondays through Fridays at 7 a.m., at 9 a.m. and at 12:30 p.m. For more information, contact 951-723-3880 or visit http://www. cityofmenifee.us/register.

59. Two very diﬀerent islands 63. Tuesday, in Quebec 67. Toe the line 68. Narrated 69. Debaters’ positions 70. Thirteen popes 71. Shelter grp. 72. Slick 73. Coastal raptor 74. Sounds of disapproval

27. Prone to cheekiness 29. Diamond stat. 30. Roaster’s spot 32. “On the Beach” actress, Gardner 33. Opposite of pushes 34. Have ___ (bathe) 35. Coast on the Atlantic 37. ash 38. How some Perrier tastes 41. Neither Rep. nor Dem. 42. Mich. locks, for short 43. Put on 48. Narcissistic person 49. Microscopic crime scene clue, brie y 51. Not marked up 54. Stuck, after “in” 55. Taro, for example 57. Paint thinners for short 58. One way to be taken 60. Many millennia 61. Wall Street Journal subj. 62. “Sad to say ...” 63. Billy goat’s bleat 64. Common connector 65. Way to go, for short 66. Go down a bit

‘Who’s for Tennis?’ Crossword puzzle by Myles Mellor

Across 1. Revs, as an engine 5. Grade to graduate 9. Bucolic writings 14. “Indeed!” 15. It may bounce oﬀ the wall 16. Having a bump 17. Lady of pop 18. In __ of (instead of) 19. Hurried 20. Ireland 23. Dana of “The Help” 24. Brew of Polynesia 25. Some patient responses 28. Defunct 31. Birthplace of pizza 33. __ gow poker 36. To no ___ (fruitlessly) 39. Grocery chain owned by Albertsons 40. Caribbean vacation spot 44. Crackpot 45. Treasured Paciﬁc island country 46. Gentleman 47. Coated with bacon 50. Star Wars Jedi 52. Shade of blue 53. Swarm insect 56. Ms. James

Down 1. Revolutionary War general Thomas 2. Japanese taste type 3. Israeli desert 4. Trapped 5. Student grant named for a senator 6. It has a low pH 7. Islamic oﬃcial 8. “Stars and Stripes Forever” composer 9. Ready to mate 10. Meg Ryan remake of 1988 11. Lgths. of tape 12. No. that’s zero at the equator 13. Shrewd 21. Per annum 22. Year in Nero’s reign 25. Beside 26. Gandhi was one

Answers on page C-5

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Valley News • www. m yva lleynews. co m

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Section

SPORTS March 19 – 25, 2021

www.myvalleynews.com

Volume 21, Issue 12

Great Oak tops all at Southwestern League cross-country finals

Senior Austin Monte places ﬁrst for Downs in emecula.

reat

ak High School at the Southwestern League ﬁnals at

alway

Valley News/T im e Stood Still P hotography photo

Great O ak H igh School sw eeps both the boys’ and girls’ cross- country races at the Southwestern League ﬁnals hursday, March 11, at alway Downs in emecula. Valley News/Courtesy photo

JP Raineri SPORTS EDITOR

The final meet of the shortened high school cross-country season took place Thursday, March 11, at alway Downs in Temecula. reat Oak High School finished their season by sweeping both the boys’ and girls’ races, wrapping up yet another unbeaten season as the top program in the area. Wolfpack seniors Brianna Weidler and Austin Montez took first place and top honors leading the way for their programs in the Southwestern League. Here are the results featuring scores and the top 10 runners, or top placing runner from each school G irls’ R esults: 1. Great Oak High School ( SS) – 1: 29: 2 – 20 p oints 2 . Vista M urrieta ( SS) – 1: 33: 27 – 54 p oints 3. M urrieta Valley High ( SS) – 1: 36: 19 – 83 p oints 4. Temecula Valley High ( SS) – 1: 38: 17 – 105 p oints 5. Chaparral High School ( SS) – 1: 41: 29 – 120 p oints 6. M urrieta M esa ( SS) – 1: 46: 09 – 150 p oints I ndividual G irls’ R esults:

1. Brianna Weidler 12 – reat Oak High School SS – 17 35.1 2. Ameya Teli 10 – reat Oak High School SS – 17 41.3 3. Isabel Rosales 9 – Murrieta Valley High SS – 17 42.6 4 Aishling Fabian 10 – reat Oak High School SS – 17 44.7 5. Isabella Smith 11 – Vista Murrieta SS – 1 05.2 6. Kelli aﬀney 10 – reat Oak High School SS – 1 07.4 7. Joelle Upshur 10 – reat Oak High School SS – 1 12.7 . Hannah Miller 10 – reat Oak High School SS – 1 16.1 9. Kali Kraus 10 – reat Oak High School SS – 1 22.5 10. Amari uzman 11 – Vista Murrieta SS – 1 22.6 12. Paige Thamer 11 – Temecula Valley High SS – 1 4 .0 1 . Emily Schwank 12 – Chaparral High – 19 27.7 Boy s’ results: 1. Great Oak High School ( SS) – 1: 14: 56 – 24 p oints 2 . Vista M urrieta ( SS) – 1: 16: 13 – 44 p oints 3. M urrieta Valley High ( SS) – 1: 18: 33 – 82 p oints 4. Chaparral High School ( SS) – 1: 2: 27 – 108 p oints 5. Temecula Valley High ( SS) – 1: 26: 08 – 145 p oints

reat ak High School senior, Brianna eidler, takes ﬁrst place and top honors for the season at the Southwestern League cross-country ﬁnals. Valley News/T im e Stood Still P hotography photo

6. M urrieta M esa ( SS) – 1: 26: 26 – 150 p oints I ndividual Boy s results: 1. Austin Montez 12 – reat Oak High School SS – 14 4 .3 2. Jacob Bustamante 12 – Chaparral High School SS – 14 49.6 3. David Kankowski 10 – reat Oak High School SS – 14 50.3 4. Cameron Smith 11 – reat

Oak High School SS – 14 53.4 5. Lance Denhalter 11 – Vista Murrieta SS – 14 59.0 6. oah Murasmith 12 – Vista Murrieta SS – 15 04.7 7. Carson Smith 11 – reat Oak High School SS – 15 11.5 . abe Jasperson 12 – Vista Murrieta SS – 15 12.1 9. Brandon Wilk 11 – reat Oak High School SS – 15 12.3 10. Mark Cortes 10 – reat

Oak High School SS – 15 12.4 12. Juan Rosales 12 – Murrieta Valley High SS – 15 27.5 16. Alex Kalmar 12 – Temecula Valley High SS – 15 39.0 23. Riley Menter 12 – Murrieta Mesa SS – 16 3 .1 * F ull results can b e found at http: www. nishedresults.com. J P R aineri can b e reached b y email at sports@reedermedia. com.

Former Linfield standout, Lorenzo Burns, invited to scaled-down NFL Draft combine posing quarterbacks avoiding his presence in 2020. His mirror-skills and instincts are two attributes that will make him an appealing prospect to FL teams. Burns was named Defensive Team MVP in 2019 and selected to the FLPA Collegiate Bowl roster this past

year. The 5-foot-11, 175-pound Burns opted to return for a fifth season, where he had 24 tackles, two tackles-for-loss and one PBU over five games. In his first season in 2016, Burns appeared in the first two games but gained a redshirt year after suf-

fering a season-ending injury. In 2017, Burns started all 13 games at “boundary” cornerback, including the Wildcats’ loss to Purdue in the Foster Farms Bowl. After ﬁve years in Arizona, he is ready to put see BU RNS, page C-2

Loren o Burns, who graduated from Linﬁeld Christian High School in 201 and played under his father, Dechon Burns, has entered the 2021 FL Draft, set to take place in April. Valley News/Courtesy photo

JP Raineri SPORTS EDITOR

Murrieta native, Lorenzo Burns, who graduated from Linfield Christian High School in 2016, is gaining traction to the FL Draft this year. Burns spent the last five years playing for the Arizona Wildcats, but before that

was coached and catapulted to college level play by his own father, Dechon Burns, head football coach at Linﬁeld Christian. Burns was a four-year starter that ﬁnished his Wildcats career with 42 games, 192 tackles – eight of them for a loss, two sacks, nine interceptions and an impressive 35 pass de ections, all the while op-

Murrieta native, Loren o Burns, earns All- ac-12 honorable mention honors during the shortened 2020 C D-19-a ected season. Valley News/Courtesy photo

C-2

Valley News • www. m yva lleynews. co m

• M arch 1 9 , 20 21

SPORTS

Local combine for football, lacrosse and soccer players comes to Murrieta

Elite rep ecruiting plans to deliver a uality look at what each athlete has to o er in the classroom and on the athletic ﬁeld to college recruiters and coaches.

he local Standardi ed Athlete esting Combine for football, soccer and lacrosse athletes will be o ered Valley News/Courtesy photos Sunday, March 21, at Murrieta Mesa High School.

JP Raineri SPORTS EDITOR

The college athletic recruitment process can be intimidating for students and families trying to navigate it, and the coronavirus pandemic caused upheaval across the board for student athletes. In the past, high school student-athletes depended on playing a full regular season for their respective sport, along with getting in front of college coaches at showcases, tournaments, and clinics and physically visiting college campuses. With the return of high school

sports, the current seasons are nothing like what they normally would be. Current juniors and seniors have dealt with canceled showcases all over California, and most CAA Division I coaches have not been allowed to conduct in-person recruiting since the pandemic started. COVID-19 budget woes prompted some colleges to cut sports programs, reducing recruiting spots. While it will be harder for college coaches to see student athletes, it is still possible. One such opportunity is coming to Murrieta in the form of a combine taking place Sunday, March 21, at Mur-

Local prep sports scores

rieta Mesa High School. The local Standardized Athlete Testing Combine will be for football, soccer and lacrosse athletes. The two companies hosting the event are Elite Prep Recruiting and ybek Sports, which does the timing at the FL Combine and they host pro days at major universities all over the country. Elite Prep Recruiting was formed by a team of local coaches and high school administrators with the goal to work with student-athletes and families to ensure they are receiving proper and relevant guidance during the recruiting process. “We provide the roadmap and

tools, but the ultimate success depends on the desire and commitment of the student-athlete,” Jason Hamm, EPR representative and assistant principal at Murrieta Mesa High School, said. Hamm coached an all-star football game in Mexico where they put the athletes through an FLstyle combine conducted by ybek Sports. He took the reports that both coaches and student-athletes received from the combine and showed his EPR team how these could be used to help student athletes get real numbers for college coaches. “This is an incredible opportunity to get real numbers and measurements for those studentathletes wishing to continue their careers after high school,” Hamm said. “We sent emails to over 1,500 college head coaches of various sports, and we learned that if a class of 2021 athlete really has the desire to play in college, there are

still spots. We also learned that it is already competitive for the 2022 class and that the 2023 and 2024 athletes need to start making a recruiting plan now.” MVUSD gave permission to the two companies to hold the combine at Murrieta Mesa, but it is not a district event and is open to athletes from all over the area. Space will be limited. The cost for athletes to do the combine is 50, which covers the facility, insurance and supplies. “My major message is to help kids, and what I found is that if a student-athlete wants to continue playing he she can,” Hamm said. To register for the combine visit https elitepreprecruiting. com and to learn more about ybek Sports, the official electronic timing partner of the FL Combines, visit https www. zybeksports.com . J P R aineri can b e reached b y email at sports@reedermedia.com.

High school football begins Week 1 schedule

he Murrieta Mesa boys water polo team defeated ista Murrieta for the ﬁrst time in school history ednesday, March 10. Valley News/Courtesy photo

JP Raineri SPORTS EDITOR

With the return of high school sports competition, and with action ramping up, it is go-time across the Temecula Valley. Here is a look at some of the most recent scores from matches and games taking place in the area. Boys’ Water Polo Murrieta Valley – 24 Vista Murrieta – 3 Chaparral – 1 Vista Murrieta – 10 Murrieta Valley – 21 Murrieta Mesa – 3 Chaparral – 13

Temecula Valley – 9 Murrieta Mesa – 17 Vista Murrieta – 7 Chaparral – 16 Murrieta Mesa - 15 Girls’ Lacrosse Murrieta Mesa – 16 Orange Lutheran – 6 Murrieta Valley – Yorba Linda – 12 Girls’ Tennis reat Oak – 2 M.L. King - 16 * P hotos and sports scores/ stats can be submitted to sports@ reedermedia.com.

For the ﬁrst time in a year, high school football teams across southwest gridiron to compete.

JP Raineri SPORTS EDITOR

High school football is back, with precautions. Due to COVID-19, many state high school athletics associations moved their football seasons to the spring and the long wait is finally over for many teams in southwest Riverside County. It might be the shortest season ever, there may not be playoffs, or aptly named league champs, but school officials did a great job navigating an ever-changing sea of health and safety guidelines, and coaches did their best to both encourage children to play, and to also be patient. Though last BU RNS f rom

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Tucson in the rear view and has officially entered his name in the 2021 FL draft. In the 201 season, Burns only missed the Arizona State and Colorado games with injury but started 10 contests in head coach Kevin Sumlin’s first year at UA. As a redshirt senior in 2019, Burns was named Arizona’s Defensive MVP after recording 46 tackles and four interceptions and earned All-Pac-12 honorable mention honors. After opting to stay with the Wildcats in 2020 rather than declare for this past FL draft, Burns earned All-Pac-12 honorable mention honors and started every game during the abbreviated COVID-19-affected season. Valley ews photographer, Rob Davis, recently sat down with Burns to learn more about his

iverside County will be hitting the Valley News/AC Sports photo

week saw the official start for many schools in counties around the state that met the pandemic guidelines, for the ﬁrst time in a year, high school football teams across our area will be hitting the gridiron to compete this week. Here is a schedule of games for schools in the Temecula Valley, starting this Thursday. To report any additions or changes, email sports@reedermedia.com. THU RSDAY , M ARCH 18 ames at 7 p.m. unless noted Sunbelt League Valley View at Hemet Non-League Temescal Canyon at Ayala Rancho Verde at orth FRIDAY , M ARCH 19 ames

at 7 p.m. Southwestern League Chaparral at Vista Murrieta reat Oak at Murrieta Mesa Non-League Heritage at Murrieta Valley SATU RDAY , M ARCH 2 0 Inland Valley League Lakeside at Elsinore, 5 p.m. M ountain Pass League San Jacinto at Tahquitz, 10 a.m. Non-League Santa Rosa Academy at West Valley 10 a.m. Riverside Poly at Citrus Hill, 10 a.m. J P R aineri can b e reached b y email at sports@reedermedia. com.

decision to take on the FL draft. RD: How have you been holding up during the pandemic Burns: I have been holding up pretty well. There have been a few obstacles, but my family has helped me through them. RD: How do you think the draft will go for you Burns: I am keeping a positive outlook on the process. If I get drafted or go undrafted it is still a blessing to have an opportunity. RD: Which FL team do you think will beneﬁt most from your skill sets Burns: I think any team that takes a chance on me will beneﬁt from what I can bring to the table. RD: Do you have your sights on any particular team Burns: I do not, in my eyes I am willing to go wherever and play for whoever takes a chance on me. RD: If drafted, what do you

expect as a rookie Burns: I expect myself to perform to the best of my ability day in and day out. I also expect myself to play a big role on special teams. A total of 323 draft prospects were invited to participate in this year’s FL Combine, which took on a complexly diﬀerent format amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Also on the list of draft invites was former reat Oak standout and UCLA wide receiver, Demetric Felton. The 2021 FL Draft will be the 6th annual meeting of ational Football League franchises to select newly eligible players. The draft is scheduled to be held from April 29 to May 1, in Cleveland. The Jacksonville Jaguars will select ﬁrst overall. R ob ert Davis can b e reached b y email at davis 007@veri on.net. J P R aineri can b e reached b y email at sports@reedermedia.com.

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OPINION Editor’s Note: Opinions do not necessarily reﬂect the views of the Valley News staff. We invite opinions on all sides of an issue. If you have an opinion, please send it as an e-mail to v alleyeditor@ reedermedia. com, or fax us at (760) 723-9606. Maximum word count 500. All letters must include the author’s name, address and phone number. The Valley News reserves the right to edit letters as necessary to ﬁt the publication’s format.

Non-COVID death epidemic of the future Dr. Parvez Dara AMERICAN INSTITUTE FOR ECONOMIC RESEARCH

Consider the possibility that science is a process of questions and answers. Not all answers are correct and not all questions are valid. Yet all need to be considered and evaluated separately and carefully. Within that context we broach the subject of this COVID-19 debacle that stands in our way to a free and productive life. The draconian measures undertaken have had profound and lasting impressions on the American psyche that will not be washed away any time soon. But we wish to explore the unscientific labors of a few minds that compelled the nation and indeed the world to point to a far worse intermediate term future of the health of our citizens. Although, non-COVID-19 related deaths include the psychological trauma to the society as a whole, including suicides, drug addiction and harm related to physical abuse and their future impact, we will focus on the non-psychological medical harm to the people as a whole. as this awed science What has COVID-19 wrought on our nation and the entire planet? What has become a daily treadmill of fear and peril at every fork in the road? While we do not minimize the enormous loss of life from the pandemic, we certainly argue against the mechanics used to mitigate the pandemic. We have climbed through the hoops of shutdowns and lockdowns and found that wanting. The fact that lockdowns have done harm is not in question. Entire companies have gone bankrupt, and households have lost loved ones via the egregious efforts of confinement and proximity. Restaurants have closed, movie theaters are threatened and brick and mortar stores have shuttered. Millions have lost their jobs, and most others are skating on thin ice that keeps getting thinner by the day. We were told that masks were not helpful once, not too long ago, but then they suddenly defied all previous principles of apolitical science and became helpful in mitigating the viral onslaught. But that was not enough because what one mask couldn’t seem to do in regards protecting the individual, two were recommended as “common sense.” Suddenly we were told “science” had proven the fidelity of such a declaration. More policy mandates were promulgated, and schools were shutdown to “protect the young.” Dr. John Ionnadis from Stanford University linked such arbitrary, yet draconian shutdowns to a greater harm on society. Skepticism of such motives would be considered blasphemy, after all the policy was made to protect the young from acquiring the infection. Somewhere in the new science world, the whole idea of facts was lost. The data showed that children less than 10 years of age had a 0.002% chance of severe illness and those under 20 years of age had less than 0.1% chance. Even UNESCO reiterated that school closures cause harm to the young. And the 1.9 billion children were directly impacted by such measures, harming the lower income far worse. Within this dichotomy of action and reaction was buried the 1840 Farr’s Law about pandemics that everyone seemed to have missed: “Epidemics (also holds true for pandemics) events rise and fall in a roughly symmetrical pattern. The time-evolution behavior could be captured by a single mathematical formula that could be approximated by a bell-shaped curve.” Further irregularities in reporting occurred in February and March 2020, when the infection fatality rate was con ated with case fatality rate. The difference between IFR and CFR is in the denominator: infections or cases. All cases are infections, but not all infections are confirmed cases related to the virus, so the number of infections always exceeds the number of cases, making IFR less than CFR. The IFR for the seasonal u is 0.13 (0.1-0.18%) yet in March 2020 that number was reported by the media and confirmed by Dr. Anthony Fauci in his testimony to be 3 . The difference between the numbers is an order of magnitude that not only was alarming but overnight created enormous fear. he failin dia nostics In all this hubbub of the “new science” where the previous research was considered to not add to the current vogue concepts, something was lost: facts. The data mining of

the COVID-19 infections was cluttered with miscues. The data mined, created a bucket of “cases both asymptomatic and symptomatic,” “hospitalizations” and “deaths.” The “cases,” we have come to know are not as were assumed in the early phase of the pandemic. Not everyone with a fever, a cough or those feeling listless was infected with the virus. Even those tested positive with the reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction or RT-PCR method were not truly infected, were based on diagnostic methodology and did not represent the actual incidence of infection. We discovered that the thermal cycle threshold used in the PCR method was the hidden arbiter determining an infection “case.” The higher the number of thermal cycles used for amplification of the R A, the higher the degree of probability that the test would be rendered positive. In other words, a person with a noninfectious fragment of an RNA from a previous coronavirus infection could be counted positive due to the high sensitivity and low specificity based on high amplification cycles. This inherent weakness brought into question the very accuracy of the case-count. But what of the deaths? Since deaths are considered the “lagging indicator” in the disease and determine the deadly virulence of the virus itself. What did that number actually represent? And this is where we lay our tale. cess mortalit data The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data suggested and continues to show the “excess mortality numbers” on a weekly basis. Any spike above the mean is considered excess and suggests that the increased mortality is from the virus itself. Science again asks us to remain skeptical. So, we are going to question with rational arguments and factual data these questions that hound us. Excess mortality depends on the structure of the population demographics. The older the population, the higher the excess mortality numbers. These age structures, however, can be standardized to make valid comparisons. Based on this standardization the United States has an excess mortality of 12.9% with expected age-standardized mortality in 2020 per 100,000 of 1,020; agestandardized total excess mortality per 100,000 of 1,152 and excess age-standardized mortality per 100,000 of 132. hat constit tes C death How does a physician categorize death on a death certificate If a person has a diagnosis of terminal cancer but on the last day of their life, the organ failure from the ravages of the cancer ends their life. How would one account for that death? Is it the organ failure, such as heart failure, kidney failure or liver failure etc.? Or is it the cancer itself? Any logical mind would say the latter. But then if the physician would write heart failure as the cause and cancer as the extenuating secondary causal event, would he be wrong? The answer is simple, yes. And that problem has been circulating in the medical world for a long time. Death certificates are full of errors, as much as 51% based on the data, both by interpretation and sometimes by intent. We have over the past year seen COVID-19 being labeled as the cause of death in car accidents, in gunshot-related traumatic deaths and other organ failure maladies. Were these all COVID-19 deaths? The answer is no. Was it contributing in nature, perhaps But definitely not as a proximate cause. It is a fairly remarkable statement to make, yet the facts seem to agree with that assertion. Several cases in the newspaper articles account for such blatant incongruities. We have also ascertained over the similar one-year period of time that normal causal reasons of death have decreased dramatically. The numbers of deaths related to cancer have plummeted as have heart attacks, diabetes and other chronic diseases related events. In a similar vein, the number of in uenza cases have also dramatically been reduced. And in the latter case, one wonders if we are testing the RNA fragments common to other coronaviruses and calling every in uenza-like illness a COVID-19 infection? Since data exists that the SARs-CoV2 shares 96.2% homology to other coronaviruses including the bat virus and other

coronaviruses such as MERS and in uenzas. A question that should keep experts researching? he declinin screenin mea s res Non COVID-19 deaths are taking a back seat in counting these days. There is a large price yet to pay and has been paid if we place this concept in the crucible of reality. We have unfortunately turned back the time on preventative medicine. Several studies have identified a substantial drop in health care utility in March and April as most medical offices closed or dramatically scaled back operations, and people have generally avoided interactions with the health system in the hopes of not contracting the virus. It included reductions in outpatient visits, emergency department visits, and elective surgeries like lower joint replacement. Lesser number of colonoscopies are being performed. It is a proven fact that colonoscopy examinations save lives by removing a polyp that will over time turn into cancer. Colonoscopies declined by almost 90% at one point in midApril 2020 compared to 2019 and as of November 2020 are still down about 10-15% compared to last year. Similarly, mammogram and breast examinations have been reduced to a trickle. Mammograms and Pap smears were down nearly 80% in April 2020 compared to 2019. Both services, however, recovered throughout the summer and fall, with Pap smears and mammograms rebounding above 2019 levels in August and November, respectively. And for males, PSA tests, which are used for prostate cancer screening, while down approximately 70% in early April, have seen a strong rebound, with delivery of PSA tests returning to 2019 levels starting in June and reaching 25% above 2019 levels in September 2020. What follows is that a treatable and potentially curable malignancy, with delay, will usually reveal itself as late stage incurable cancer. In fact, the legal profession prides itself in suing physicians for negligence due to delay in diagnosis. Our fear of catching a virus is leading us inexorably to the fate we dread the most. Who or what one faults is not the premise that we intend to uncover? We are merely bringing the conscience of all to bear on this potentially formidable looming tragedy. he act al harm and the sci ence A Lancet study from the U.K. revealed: “We collected data for 32,5 3 patients with breast cancer, 24,975 with colorectal cancer, 6,744 with oesophageal cancer and 29,305 with lung cancer. Across the three different scenarios, compared with pre-pandemic figures, we estimate a 7· 9–9· 6% increase in the number of deaths due to breast cancer up to Year 5 after diagnosis, corresponding to between 281 (95% CI 266295 and 344 329-35 additional deaths. For colorectal cancer, we estimate 1,445 1,392-1,591 to 1,563 1,534-1,592 additional deaths, a 15.3 to 16.6 increase; for lung cancer, 1,235 1,220-1,254 to 1,372 1,343-1,401 additional deaths, a 4. to 5.3 increase; and for oesophageal cancer, 330 324-335 to 342 336-34 additional deaths, 5. to 6.0 increase up to five years after diagnosis. For these four tumour types, these data correspond with 3,291-3,621 additional deaths across the scenarios within five years. The total additional YLLs across these cancers is estimated to be 59,204 to 63,229 years.” What is even more appalling is that these non–COVID-19 excess deaths are most apparent in the 25to 44-year age group for women and 15- to 54-year age group for men as revealed. “There are several potential reasons for this undercount,” Dr. Steven H. Woolf said in a university news release. “Some of it may reect underreporting; it takes a while for some of these data to come in. Some cases might involve patients with COVID-19 who died from related complications, such as heart disease, and those complications may have been listed as the cause of death rather than COVID-19. “But a third possibility, the one we’re quite concerned about, is indirect mortality – deaths caused by the response to the pandemic. People who never had the virus may have died from other causes because of the spillover effects of the pandemic, such as delayed medical care, economic hardship

or emotional distress. “The demographic and time patterns of the non-COVID-19 excess deaths point to deaths of despair rather than an undercount of COVID-19 deaths. The ow of CEDs increased steadily from March to June and then plateaued. They were disproportionately experienced by working-age men, including men as young as 15 to 24. If deaths of despair were the only causes of death with significant net contributions to CEDs after February, 30,000 NCEDs would represent at least a 45% increase in deaths of despair from 2018, which itself was high by historical standards,” Woolf said. The fears projected onto the public by the public health policy experts and the Media may have created the greatest tragedy of our times. “Due to fears of contracting COVID-19 or taking up space in hospitals, patients experiencing a heart attack or stroke are delaying their essential care, causing a new public health crisis,” Dr. Martha Gulati, editor-in-chief of CardioSmart. org, said. S.H. Jacobson and J.A. Jokela discussed non–COVID-19 report on excess deaths by age and gender in the United States during the first three months of the COVID-19 pandemic in Public Health in 2020; 189: “At COVID-19’s peak for March and April, diabetes deaths in those five states rose 96 above the expected number of deaths when compared to the weekly averages in January and February 2020. The five states also had spikes in deaths from heart disease (89%), Alzheimer’s disease (64%) and stroke 35 . In ew York City, there was a 39 increase in heart disease deaths and a 356 increase in diabetes deaths. “ To complicate the picture, the British Medical Journal suggested, “During March, while age standardised death rates for COVID-19 show it was the third most common cause of death, ischaemic heart disease was 26% lower than the five-year average for March, and cerebrovascular and chronic lower

respiratory diseases were 18% and 10% lower, respectively.” That conclusion is emerging from new research showing deaths are increasing from causes such as heart disease, stroke and diabetes – while emergency room visits for those conditions are down. A JAMA study found huge increases in excess deaths from underlying causes such as diabetes, heart disease and Alzheimer’s disease in Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania – the five states with the most COVID-19 deaths in March and April. New York City experienced the biggest jumps, including a 39 rise in heart disease deaths and a 356 increase in diabetes deaths. In May 2020, Bob Anderson, chief of the mortality statistics branch at the CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics, said, “The data, based on death certificates from states, shows a spike in socalled ‘excess deaths’ in the United States, split between confirmed COVID-19 fatalities and undiagnosed or unrelated deaths. Amid the pandemic, at least 66,081 more people in the United States have died than expected since Jan. 1. More than 32,300 of the excess deaths have not been attributed to COVID-19. When you put it in context with the weekly deaths over the last couple of years, you see quite a remarkable jump.” The CDC reported in late June 2020 that in the 10 weeks after the pandemic was declared a national emergency March 13, hospital emergency department visits declined by 23 for heart attacks, 20% for strokes and 10% for uncontrolled high blood sugar in people with diabetes. Another JAMA study in July 2020, found approximately 781,000 total deaths in the United States from March 1 to May 30, 2020, representing 122,300 95 prediction interval, 116,800-127,000) more deaths than would typically be expected at that time of year. There were 95,235 reported deaths officially attributed see EP ID EM IC, page C-4

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Issa opposes one-sided and partisan election legislation, declares H.R. 1 ‘most misleading political bill in history’ WASHI TO – Rep. Darrell Issa, CA-50, released the following statement March 3, in opposition to House Resolution 1 “States made sweeping changes to election practices leading up to Election Day 2020, even circumventing state legislatures in favor of executive decrees and court-ordered variations. There is no dispute some of these changes were done in violation of state constitutions and state law. “Mistrust of election integrity is at an all-time high. Rather than tackling the flaws in the system that we know exist, H.R. 1 is an end-run around common sense laws and a full sprint to give Democrats

an unfair and illegal advantage. If signed into law, this strictly partisan legislation will only ensure that tens of millions of Americans will lose even more conﬁdence that our elections are as fair as they are said to be free,” Issa said. H.R. 1 cements some of the worst election practices of California, including its pandemic response and other troubling components including banning state voter ID requirements; creating a FEC “Speech Czar;” forcing states to automatically register convicted felons upon release from prison; mandates states automatically register 16and 17-year-olds despite federal

law requirements that voters be 1 years of age; removing bipartisan makeup of the FEC; giving taxpayer dollars to political candidates, even if the taxpayer does not support a candidate; mandating states to allow ballot harvesting and weaponizing the IRS to investigate the political beliefs of organizations seeking nonproﬁt status. “H.R. 1 is a federal power grab that only beneﬁts politicians,” Issa said. “It mandates unconstitutional changes that are designed to ensure that one political party has overwhelming advantages in all future elections. Congress must turn away from something as destructive as

H.R. 1 and instead work to restore trust in our elections by ensuring the sanctity of one man, one vote, one time.” Darrell I ssa is the representative of California’s 50th Congressional District. The district encompasses the central and northeastern parts of San Diego County and a portion of Riverside County, including the communities of Fallbrook, San arcos, Valley Center, Ramona, Escondido, Santee, Lakeside, El Ca on, Temecula and the mountain and desert areas of the San Diego-Imperial County line. I ssa served as the chair of the House Committee on Oversight and overnment Reform from 011- 015.

for tuition, being financially stable and buying textbooks that are not being affordable. Textbooks have become expensive for students, and we know there needs to be a change in this action. The pandemic had shown the despair students have to go through when students can’t afford textbooks. The research provided explained five large companies completely monopolize the textbook marketplace, driving prices up by 1041 since 1977. Also, college textbooks can cost up to 1,000 a year and this cost can affect student’s success

academically because they have no choice to buy the textbook for their course. With this additional cost, students have to decide whether to drop the class or not buy the textbook at all, and the reason given is because the textbook is too expensive. As a fourth-year student from the University of California Riverside, I’m a part of the organization called CALPIR Students that focuses on seeking better options for students by asking professors to use open textbooks. The Aﬀordable Textbooks campaign focuses

on all UCR students being able to aﬀord their textbooks. The goal is to transition to open textbooks and ask the schools, the professors and the chancellor to take an important action to help us, students, achieve our goals. We need to move away from the broken textbook marketplace and move towards “open textbooks.” Open textbooks allow students to have free access to digital forms of their textbooks that can be revised, remixed and reused. The campaign is now getting support from getting thousands of petitions for everyone

to take notice of the real problems students face. With this option, students wouldn’t have to be overwhelmed with the thought of not aﬀording a textbook. ot only would it beneﬁt students, but professors can adjust to using open textbooks and make their classes more attainable for students. It would help all students in the United States have better opportunities in their education.

and April 11 APC, 5.1 95 CI, 0.2-10.2 , driven by the spring surge in COVID-19 cases. Mortality rates for Alzheimer disease dementia increased twice, between weeks ending March 21 and April 11 APC, 7.3 95 CI, 2.9-11. and between weeks ending June 6 and July 25 APC, 1.5 95 CI, 0. -2.3 , the latter coinciding with the summer surge in sunbelt states.” ew data from a research letter showed that U.S. deaths per month – a commonly consistent rate – increased by 20 from March to July 2020. COVID-19 was a documented cause of death in twothirds of these excess cases. Woolf

sought to update previous analysis which showed COVID-19 was cited in just 65 of excess deaths in March-April from this year, while non-coronavirus causes of deaths increased sharply in the ﬁve states reporting the most COVID-19 deaths. From March 1 to Aug. 1, investigators observed 1,333,561 excess deaths in the U.S. – a 20 increase over the estimated expected 1.1 million deaths 1,111,031; 95 CI, 1,110,364 – 1,111,697 . Of the 225,530 estimated excess deaths, 150,541 67 were attributed to COVID-19. The three states to account for 30 of all excess deaths in this period – ew Jersey, ew

York and Massachusetts. In October 2020, a Stat ews article showed, “There were also differences among different age groups, with the largest increase occurring among people ages 25 to 44, who saw excess deaths that were 26.5 higher than average. People 45 to 64 had 14.4 more deaths, while those 65 to 74 had 24.1 more deaths. Deaths among people 75 to 4 were 21.5 higher and 14.7 higher for people 5 and above. Deaths this year for people under 25, however, were 2 below average.” A more recent article in January 2021 conﬁrmed that 7 of cancers

were missed due to lack of screening. Dr. Scott Atlas extrapolated this percentage to 1 million people in the U.S. to be impacted from such lack of detection. Estimates from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and reported in The ew York Times, revealed that,“40,000 extra deaths from diabetes, Alzheimer’s, high blood pressure and pneumonia. ationwide, deaths from Alzheimer’s disease, which usually affects older adults, are 12 above normal this year, with several Southern states seeing larger increases. 40,000 extra deaths from diabetes, Alzheimer’s, high blood pressure and pneumonia.” The total deaths make the virus look deadlier. But so far this year, three times as many people have died of heart ailments. “I’ve got about 1 million deaths from January to April,” Bob Anderson, chief of the mortality-statistics branch of the ational Center for Health Statistics, said. “About 230,000 are from heart disease. early 200,000 are cancer deaths, 61,000 are chronic lower-respiratory diseases, 55,000 are accidents and 52,000 are strokes.” Recent research confirms that excess all-cause mortality was 2.4 per 10,000 individuals in the United States in April 2020 – the first full month of the pandemic – which represents about 30 more deaths than the number of COVID-19 deaths reported in that month Meanwhile in the United Kingdom, according to the Imperial College data, “Around 9,000 nonCOVID-19 deaths in England during three months of the pandemic would not have occurred had the pandemic not happened.” It brings us back to the question of reason and reality. Masking reality without reason lays bare the profundity of the harm that is before us. All this will be accounted for as the doctors are allowed to go back to their business of saving lives. There will be a rash of deaths that could have been prevented in the recent past and more so in the coming future, from not-screening, not diagnosing and not being able to care for. We might all rue the day when the public health policy experts did not consider the ramifications of their singular tunnel-vision focus. Dr. Parve Dara is a medical hematologist oncologist. His certi cations include in Internal medicine and medical oncology. He has a master’s degree in business administration with honors. He focused on medical genetics, biologics and intracellular signal transduction mechanics. He continues to explore the issues in b iostatistics and relevancy of the medical literature. Parve also explored mechanics of aviation safety and lectures extensively on advanced decision making, loss of control, risk mitigation and aviation physiology. Copyright and reprinted with permission. 0 1 American Institute for Economic Research. AIER is a nonpro t organi ation.

Darrel ssa

Valley News/Courtesy photo

The Affordable Textbooks campaign College textbooks have become substantially expensive over the years. Students across the world have dealt with the hardships of trying to have an education but deal with the consequences of spending too much money on textbooks. Especially once COVID-19 became known in the United States, students were aﬀected deeply with losing their jobs, having to take care of their family and not having enough money to take care of themselves. Students across the world have gone through the challenges of maintaining their education, paying EP ID EM IC f rom

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to COVID-19 from March 1 to May 30, 2020. The number of excess allcause deaths was 2 higher than the oﬃcial tally of COVID-19-reported deaths during that period. More data from the JAMA etwork Join Point analysis revealed October 2020, “Of the 225,530 excess deaths, 150,541 67 were attributed to COVID-19. The analyses revealed an increase in deaths attributed to causes other than COVID-19, reaching statistical significance. U.S. mortality rates for heart disease increased between weeks ending March 21

Pets of the Week Animal Friends of the Valleys Hello m ona, a 1 -year-old female kitty. m a beautiful older gal w ho is good w ith dogs and seniors. m looking for a friendly older companion to take naps with and give me lots of love and attention. Let s meet ntake umber 1

Hi m Sky, a 2-year-old female Husky mix. m a very smart and sweet lady with gorgeous blue eyes. m looking for a family with land for me to run and a good fence. need tons of exercise, so let s get running. Come meet me today ntake umber 0 19 ebsite www.animalfriendsofthevalleys.com Address 1 Mission rail, ildomar, CA 92 9 hone 9 1-0 1 Hours of operation Monday, uesday, hursday and Friday from 10 a.m. to

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Ramona Humane Society Hi m reland, -year-old female itbull mix. m a cutie pie and a sweetheart who s waiting for my furever family. would love to be the center of your world. Let s go ﬁnd adventures together. Come meet me today ntake umber 1 9 0 Hs2 2

Hi m enny, a -year-old female kitty. m a radiant lady with luxurious long hair. am pretty easygoing and sweet once you get to know me. ill you give me a second chance at my furever home Let s meet ntake umber 1 Hs2 29 0

Foster pet parents wanted Contact volunteer ramonahumanesociety.org for more information. he shelter is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to p.m. for adoptions. For more great pets available for adoption, contact the amona Humane Society at 9 1- 002 or visit www. ramonahumanesociety.org.

Living Free Animal Sanctuary Hello m ideon, an -year-old male Border Collie mix. m a smart, curious dog who loves going on walks, exploring the dog park and visiting with people. m ready to become a loving, loyal companion to an experienced adult adopter. would do best as an outside dog, as tend to mark. m an independent fellow with a gentle and loving nature. Come meet me today

Hi m oph, a -month-old female dilute Calico kitty. m a beautiful and curious girl who is a ectionate and loves to play. en oy looking for new things to examine and explore. m looking for a home with other friendly and playful cats. Let s meet today

For more information on ideon, oph and other pets up for adoption at Living Free Animal Sanctuary, call the kennel at 9 1- 21-99 2, the cattery at 9 1- 91-1 9 or visit https living-free.org.

Retrievers & Friends Hi m Ashley, a -year-old female Shepherd mix. m a beautiful, sweet lady. My pups are grown up, and m ready for my furever home. Come meet me today! For more great pets up for adoption, visit etrievers and Friends of Southern California at www.retrieversandfriends.com.

Valley News / Courtesy photos

Kiani Taylor Menifee

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HEALTH

Spray, don’t bake: The Skin Cancer Foundation suggests indoor tanning alternatives this spring EW YORK CITY – Spring is around the corner, and for many young women, it means memorable events like prom, even if they may be socially distant or virtual this year. It may be tempting to achieve a bronzed, “sun-kissed” look for occasions like these, and studies show women are more likely to use indoor tanning devices than men. However, any young women considering indoor tanning should think twice. Ultraviolet radiation is a proven human carcinogen, and there has been plenty of research linking melanoma incidence in young women to tanning bed habits. One study shows just how closely the two are connected according to researchers, 97 of women diagnosed with melanoma before age 30 have engaged in indoor tanning. Additionally, a woman doesn’t even need to use tanning beds frequently for them to pose a threat to her health. Just one indoor tanning session before the age of 35 increases a person’s risk of melanoma by 75 . “There is no such thing as a healthy UV tan. Whether you’re laying out on the beach or in a

tanning bed, the damage your skin sustains can lead to skin aging and potentially deadly skin cancer,” Dr. Deborah S. Sarnoﬀ, president of The Skin Cancer Foundation, said. “It’s so important that young women avoid UV tanning beds and opt for a sun safe beauty routine.” Tanning doesn’t only increase one’s risk of developing a melanoma – it increases the risk of developing other types of skin cancer as well. A single session causes a 67 increased risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma and a 29 increased risk of developing basal cell carcinoma. Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer, but BCC and SCC are the two most common forms of cancer. If an increased risk of skin cancer isn’t enough of a reason to steer clear, indoor tanning also contributes to premature skin aging, wrinkles, leathery skin, sagging and age spots. Still can’t resist that bronzed look Opt for sunless self-tanners or spray tans. These are available in many forms, including lotions, sprays and creams. The Skin Cancer Foundation advocated that “no tan is a safe

tan,” and that regardless of whether women decide to go with their own glow or use sunless tanning methods, they avoid UV tanning. Try these tips for properly applying sunless tanner. Prep your skin. Exfoliate skin with a scrub or loofah and follow up with a moisturizer. It ensures that the sunless tanner will be absorbed evenly. Follow the package directions closely. For example, wait at least 12 hours after shaving to apply to avoid dark spots in hair follicles and don’t use it on skin with active eczema. Be patient. Self-tanners can take 30-60 minutes to produce visible color on the skin, and this color typically lasts about ﬁve days. Repeat as necessary. enerally, the product should be reapplied daily for two to three days, until the desired shade is achieved. Then, reapply about three times a week to maintain the shade. o to a pro. Professional spray tans are an option for those who want to safely achieve a bronzed look in a hurry. Many salons provide automated application of high concentration, no-rub, aerosolized non-UV tanning products,

ne indoor tanning session before the age of increases a person s Valley News/Courtesy photo risk of melanoma by .

while others provide a customized airbrush tan. When receiving a professional spray tan, wear protective gear for the mouth, eyes and nose to prevent ingestion or inhalation. Don’t rely on sunless tanners for sun protection. Even if your self-tanner contains sunscreen, reapply a separate broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher every two hours when outdoors. Sunscreen alone

isn’t enough, however. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommended that everyone take a comprehensive sun protection approach that includes seeking shade and covering up with clothing, including a wide-brimmed hat and UVblocking sunglasses, in addition to daily sunscreen use. For more information visit http SkinCancer.org. Submitted by The Skin Cancer F oundation.

Blood donation remains essential amid COVID-19 pandemic RIVERSIDE – A year ago, many things in the world paused due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but the need for blood never stopped. The American Red Cross urged individuals who are healthy to make an appointment to donate blood as the blood supply continues to face challenges from the pandemic and the extreme winter weather that impacted much of the U.S. in February. More donors, especially those with type O blood, are needed now to ensure that patients have lifesaving blood products available for emergencies and everyday medical treatments. Schedule a blood donation appointment by downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor app, visiting http RedCrossBlood.org, calling 00-733-2767 or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device. March is Red Cross Month, and the Red Cross is celebrating blood, platelet and plasma donors for stepping up to meet the constant need for blood amid the pandemic. In thanks for being a vital part of the organization’s lifesaving mission, all who come to give until

March 26 will receive an exclusive Red Cross T-shirt, while supplies last. U pcoming blood donation opportunities M arch 19 to April 3 Christ the King Lutheran Church, 1620 Stage Coach Lane, in Fallbrook will host a mobile blood drive Tuesday, March 23, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Hemet San Jacinto Masonic Lodge 33 , 150 Laursen St., in Hemet will host a mobile blood drive Wednesday, March 24, from 1-7 p.m. Canyon Lake Community Church, 30515 Railroad Canyon Road, in Canyon Lake will host a blood drive Tuesday, March 30, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Calvary Chapel Bible Fellowship, 341 0 Rancho California Road, in Temecula will host a blood drive Tuesday, March 30, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. American Legion Post 53, 124 . Ramona St., in Hemet will host a blood drive Thursday, April 1, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Temple Baptist Church, 745 . Perris Boulevard, in Perris will host a mobile blood drive Thurs-

day, April 1, from 1-7 p.m. Walmart, 32225 Route 79 South, in Temecula will host a blood drive Friday, April 2, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Temecula Valley Hospital, 31700 Temecula Parkway, in Temecula will host a blood drive Saturday, April 3, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Important COVID-19 information for donors The Red Cross is testing blood, platelet and plasma donations for COVID-19 antibodies. Red Cross antibody tests will identify individuals who have COVID-19 antibodies and may now help current coronavirus patients in need of convalescent plasma transfusions. Convalescent plasma is a type of blood donation collected from COVID-19 survivors that have antibodies that may help patients who are actively ﬁghting the virus. COVID-19 antibody test results will be available within one to two weeks in the Red Cross Blood Donor app or donor portal at http RedCrossBlood.org. To protect the health and safety of Red Cross staﬀ and donors, it is

What is your cancer risk?

Dr. enna LeComte-Hinely of Health Assessment and esearch for Communities identiﬁes the risk of cancer based on di erent demographics. Valley News/Courtesy photo

Dr. Jenna LeComte-Hinely, HEALTH ASSESSMENT AND RESEARCH FOR COMMUNITIES

An important part of cancer prevention is knowing your personal level of risk. While there is no way to tell with absolute certainty whether you will develop cancer, doctors do know that age, gender, race and ethnicity are useful in gauging the level of risk each patient faces. Individuals who are at higher risk based on their demographics should increase the frequency of their cancer screenings. Age Increasing age is the most important risk factor for cancer, according to the ational Cancer Institute. The majority of new cancer cases strike older adults; in fact, about half of all new cancer cases are found in individuals between the ages of 55 and 74. Cancer is relatively rare for young people; only 3.7 of new cancer cases are diagnosed in people younger than age 35. The types of cancers that tend to strike young people are dif-

ferent from those who strike elderly people. For example, bone cancer, leukemia and neuroblastomas are more common in children and young adults than in older adults. While cancer diagnoses are less common among younger people, cancer can certainly strike at any age. Young people, however, tend to be diagnosed with different types of cancer than those who are older. People under 20 years-old are most commonly diagnosed with cancers such as bone cancer and leukemia. Gender Cancer incidence, or the number of new cancers diagnosed per year, is substantially higher for men than it is for women. Specifically, the incidence rate for men is 502.0 per 100,000 persons, while it is 420.6 per 100,000 persons for women. This overall gender difference holds true for all types of cancer and for people of all racial and ethnic groups. For example, cancer of the lung or bronchus is the second-most common type of cancer for both men and women, falling behind breast cancer for women and prostate cancer for men. The lung or bronchus incidence rate for men, however, is 73.2 cases per 100,000 people, while for women it is 53.3 cases per 100,000 people. Similarly, cancer of the colon and rectum is the third most common type of cancer for both men and women, but men’s incidence rates are 46.5 cases per 100,000 people, while women have an incidence rate of 35.2 cases per 100,000 people. Men are not only more likely to be diagnosed with these types of cancer, but they are also more likely to die from cancer. Specifically, the mortality rate for lung or bronchus cancer is 53. deaths per 100,000 for men, but only 35.4 deaths per 100,000 for women. Similarly, men are more likely to die from cancer of the colon and rectum than their

female counterparts; 17.3 deaths per 100,000 versus 12.2 deaths per 100,000, respectively. Race and ethnicity Black men and women have the highest overall cancer incidence rates, meaning they are more commonly diagnosed with cancer than individuals of other racial groups. Specifically, there are approximately 467.5 new cancer cases per 100,000 for black people. Asians and Pacific Islanders have the lowest rates of cancer incidence overall with 299.1 cases per 100,000 people. Black men and Black women also have the highest cancer death rates of any racial group at 1 9.9 deaths per 100,000 people, while once again, Asians and Pacific Islanders have low mortality rates at 101.3 deaths per 100,000. Hispanic people are less likely to be diagnosed with cancer and less likely to die from cancer. That is, their incidence rate is significantly lower than it is for non-Hispanics at 356.2 cases per 100,000 versus 465.7 cases per 100,000, respectively, as is their mortality rate, which is 167.7 deaths per 100,000 versus 114.6 deaths per 100,000, respectively. Thus, when discussing cancer, the term “people of color” is not a useful grouping, because some people of color fall into the highest risk brackets, while others fall into the very lowest risk brackets. Variables like age, gender, race and ethnicity are things you can’t control. But they do help to identify the potential need for screening. So, if you are a Black male over the age of 55, you need to be especially vigilant, while a young Asian or Pacific Islander female would not need to worry as much. Overall, everyone should receive regular check-ups and screening as recommended by their primary care provider.

important that individuals who do not feel well or believe they may be ill with COVID-19 postpone donation. Each Red Cross blood drive and donation center follows the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention standards of safety and infection control, and additional precautions – including temperature checks, social distancing and face coverings for donors and staﬀ – have been implemented. Donors are asked to schedule an appointment before arriving at the drive and are required to wear a face covering or mask while at the drive, in alignment with CDC public guidance. Download the American Red Cross Blood Donor app, visit http RedCrossBlood.org, call 00-733-2767 or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identiﬁcation are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states, weigh at least 110 pounds nswe s o

and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at http RedCrossBlood.org RapidPass or use the Blood Donor app. The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-proﬁt organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, visit http redcross. org or http cruzrojaamericana. org. Submitted by American Red C ross.

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BUSINESS

Rancho Water announces selection of Robert Grantham as general manager TEMECULA – The Rancho California Water District board of directors announced at their Thursday, March 11, board meeting that Robert rantham has been selected as the new general manager. Richard Aragon and Eva Plajzer, who have been acting as interim general managers for the past five months, will continue in their positions of assistant general manager – chief financial officer treasurer and assistant general manager – engineering and operations, respectively. rantham’s employment will begin March 22. rantham joins Rancho Water with more than 11 years of executive leadership and 16 years of management experience including five years as the vice president at Carollo Engineers in Walnut Creek and four years as the assistant general manager at the

Santa Margarita Water District in Orange County. rantham’s private consulting background has allowed him extensive experience in water and wastewater management and regional planning, sustaining relationships with local, state and federal agencies across California and the United States. “After the careful review of many qualified candidates for the general manager position, the Board is excited to announce the selection of Robert rantham,” Carol Lee onzales-Brady, president of the Rancho Water board, said. “We’re conﬁdent that his leadership skills and impressive background in water and wastewater will be an excellent ﬁt for Rancho Water. The Rancho team welcomes Robert as he builds upon their commitment to excellence in serving our community, and the board believes that Robert

is the right choice to lead the district as we continue to progress towards a sustainable future and reliable water supply.” In previous positions, rantham has supported water and wastewater agencies across the country with master planning eﬀorts including ﬁnancial sustainability processes and rates, inter-governmental agreements for wastewater treatment and the sale of recycled water and a 1 billion regional water supply project in the Chicago area. “I appreciate the board’s confidence in choosing me as the next general manager for Rancho Water and am looking forward to working with this exceptional team,” rantham said. “Rancho Water plays a critical role providing an essential service to over 150,000 people in this community, and its businesses

and agriculture that make up the local economy. I welcome the opportunity to work hand-in-hand with the board of directors and the talented staﬀ at Rancho Water to deliver high-quality, reliable water service in a ﬁscally responsible and sustainable manner.” rantham has a bachelor’s degree in government and history from Franklin Marshall College in Pennsylvania and post-baccalaureate studies in engineering science from Rutgers University in ew Jersey The mission of Rancho Water is to deliver reliable, high-quality water, wastewater and reclamation services to its customers and communities in a prudent and sustainable manner. Rancho Water is a local, independent special district, organized Aug. 16, 1965, servicing approximately 150 square miles and about 45,000

obert rantham is the new general manager of ancho California ater District. Valley News/Courtesy photo

service connections in Temecula, Murrieta and parts of unincorporated areas of Riverside County. Submitted by Rancho California W ater District.

Mountain Mike’s Pizza opens two new Riverside County locations TEMECULA – Mountain Mike’s Pizza, a leading familystyle pizza chain known for its crispy, curly pepperoni, 20-inch Mountain-sized pizzas and dough made fresh daily for over 40 years, announced the opening of two new Riverside County locations. Located in Temecula and Jurupa Valley, both locations are owned by franchisee and developer agent, Robby Basati, who owns and operates 1 Mountain Mike’s locations throughout California, making him the brand’s largest multi unit franchisee. The new Temecula location at 3962 Winchester Road., Suite I-J, is open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. For more information, call 951-699-0020. The Jurupa Valley location at

6237 Pats Ranch Road., Suite B, in Jurupa Valley. Basati has been franchising with Mountain Mike’s Pizza for over 15 years and has been at the helm of expanding the brand’s footprint in Southern California’s Inland Empire. Within the past three years, Basati has opened nine restaurants throughout San Bernardino and Riverside counties and has two more Mountain Mike’s locations slated to open under his leadership by the end of 2021. “Although we’re not able to open our dining rooms just yet, we are proud to begin serving even more Riverside County residents the Mountain Mike’s signature experience we’re known for, including our legendary 20-inch Mountain-sized pepperoni pizza

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featuring over 200 mini crispy, curly pepperonis,” Basati said. “Opening two new restaurants, in the same county, in the same week, was no small feat but we could not be prouder to have our doors now open in both Temecula and Jurupa Valley. The past year has brought many trials, but it has also given us the ability to continue building momentum toward what we feel will be incredibly successful year for the brand.” Once dining rooms are permitted to reopen, the two new expansive restaurants will oﬀer the welcoming environment Mountain Mike’s is known for to Riverside County locals. Serving up pizzas for everyone’s taste buds, the menus include fan-favorite signature combinations like The Everest and Pikes Peak, including the fan-favorite pepperoni pizza covered from edge to edge with mini crispy, curly pepperonis. All signature pizzas are made with high-quality ingredients like 100 real whole milk mozzarella cheese and dough that’s made fresh in-house daily. Additionally, the new locations feature arcade games, expansive outdoor patios and big screen TVs throughout,

making them the ideal dining destinations for families, sports teams, group fundraising events and celebrations. Whether it’s carry-out or contactless delivery, guests can always count on Mountain Mike’s to deliver on safety, freshness, quality and value. uests may also place orders through any of Mountain Mike’s third-party delivery partners, DoorDash, rubhub, Uber Eats and Postmates, according to the owners. “Mountain Mike’s is known for giving guests a nostalgic feeling, whether it’s through our amazing pizzas, or the memorable dining experience we create,” Basati said. “As a father of two, I’m so proud to be able to bring the fun, family-friendly atmosphere we’re famous for to families throughout Riverside County, and I’m looking forward to having both of these locations be integral parts of these neighborhoods for many years to come.” To view a full menu, to order online or ﬁnd a location, visit http www.mountainmikespizza.com. Since 197 , Mountain Mike’s Pizza has been serving “Pizza the Way it Oughta Be ” up and

down the West Coast. Known for its pepperoni pizza covered from edge to edge with mini crispy, curly pepperonis and its 20-inch Mountain-sized pizzas, Mountain Mike’s has been a popular choice for families for over 40 years. Each of the brand’s more than 200 locations across California, Oregon and Utah feature a welcoming yet modern family-friendly atmosphere complete with big screen TVs throughout and a children’s activity area with arcade games, making it a location for sports teams, family gatherings, group fundraisers and private parties. With a menu of signature pizzas, oven-roasted wings, garlic bread, mozzarella sticks and a selection of beer and wine, there’s something for everyone. Whether dine-in, carry-out or contactless delivery, guests can always count on Mountain Mike’s to deliver on safety, freshness, quality and value. For a complete list of locations and the full menu, visit http www.mountainmikespizza.com or follow Mountain Mike’s on social media. Submitted by ountain ike’s Pi a.

Temecula opens registration for spring break camps TEMECULA With spring break right around the corner, Temecula’s Community Services Department offers spring break camps to the community. Whether they want to learn how to cook, paint, draw cartoons or participate in other fun activities over spring break, the city has something to

May Be Looking for YOU! Opening available in our distribution department: • Do you value being connected with your community? • Would you enjoy providing people the ability to get award-winning hyper-local independent news at their fingertips 24/7 online for as little as $1 and then $4.99 a month? • Do you understand the importance of diverse and free speech, an independent media and the value of also celebrating the great things happening in our community?

keep everyone in the family busy. So, grab that calendar and start penciling in these fun and enriching spring break camps. For more information, to register or search the catalog, visit http TemeculaCA.gov Register. Attend Bigfoot’s Crazy Cartoon Art Camps for ages 7-13 at Old Town Temecula Community Theater courtyard. The camp will be ﬁlled with fun drawing projects and activities. The Class o. 2050.101 runs March 22-24, from 9 a.m. to noon, and Class o. 2050.102 runs March 29-31, from 9 a.m. to noon. Check out “Yes, You Can Draw Paint” Camps for ages 6 and up Community Recreation Center Amphitheater. Welcome in the spring season making amazing art. ain valuable knowledge, skills and conﬁdence to make art. Take Birds of Spring, Class o. 2525.102, March 22-24, from

9 a.m. to noon, or Desert Spring, Class o. 2525.103, March 2224, from 1-4 p.m. The Spring Baking Camps will take place on the city of Temecula Civic Center patio for ages 7-13. These spring baking camps will teach campers easy skills to make their favorite foods and desserts. Sign up for Sweet Treats, Class o. 1640.101, March 22-25, from 9-10 30 a.m. or Class o. 1640.102, March 22-25, from 11 30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Check out Savory Treats, Class o. 1640.103, March 29 to April 1, from 9-10 30 a.m. or Class o. 1640.104, March 29 to April 1, from 11 30 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, registration, full class details and current safety guidelines relating to COVID-19, visit http TemeculaCA. gov TCSD, call 951-694-64 0 or email Classes@TemeculaCA.gov. Submitted by city of Temecula.

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REGIONAL NEWS

Supervisors create Temecula Valley Wine and Agriculture Heritage District Joe Naiman WRITER

The Riverside County Board of Supervisors established the Temecula Valley Wine and Agriculture Heritage District. The supervisors voted 5-0, Tuesday, March 2, to conduct a public hearing on the creation of the district and to adopt a resolution declaring the results of a protest hearing and establishing the district. The protest hearing was a statutory requirement, but the support of the area vintners eliminated that potential obstacle to the district’s creation. The Temecula Valley Wine and

Agriculture Heritage District will be a beneﬁt assessment district, and the assessment of 1 on gross sales revenue from winery sales will be used to fund marketing, brand awareness, event programming, business improvements and special programs for the assessed wineries. Winery owners sought to establish the Temecula Valley Wine and Agriculture Heritage District to create a revenue source which will promote Temecula Valley as a wine destination and increase demand for visits of the assessed wineries. The assessments are expected to provide 1,270,000 of revenue annually to promote the Temecula Valley winery businesses.

An agricultural heritage district is similar to a business improvement district which allows business owners to organize efforts to increase promotion and sales. The assessment funds may not be diverted for other purposes, the district is customized to meet the needs of each destination, and they provide a stable funding source for business promotion. An agricultural heritage district or business improvement district allows for a wide range of services including marketing programs, business promotion activities, and infrastructure improvements. The district is designed, created and governed by those who pay the

assessment. The most notable difference between a business improvement district and other beneﬁt districts is that business improvement district funds are managed by a private nonprofit corporation which governs the business improvement district. In the case of the Temecula Valley Wine and Agriculture Heritage District a third-party collection entity will collect the assessment from each winery on a quarterly basis. The assessment collection may include delinquency fees, penalties, and interest if payments are not received in a timely manner. The assessments for the Tem-

ecula Valley Wine and Agriculture Heritage District will be eﬀective April 1. Each year on the anniversary of the district a 30-day period will allow winery owners paying more than 50 of the total assessment to protest and begin proceedings to terminate the district. The district itself will expire March 31, 2026, unless renewed. Because no beneﬁt is received for purchases made outside of the state of California, wine purchased from outside of the state is not subject to the 1 assessment. Joe Naiman can be reached by email at naiman@reedermedia. com.

LAFCO terminates Murrieta municipal service review contract with West Yost Associates Joe Naiman WRITER

Riverside County’s Local Agency Formation Commission terminated the LAFCO contract with West Yost Associates for the city of Murrieta focused municipal service review. The 7-0 LAFCO board vote, Feb. 25, rescinded the amendment to the contract with West Yost Associates which had been approved at the January LAFCO meeting and rescinded the agreement with

West Yost for the work beyond the expiration date of the original contract. A municipal service review evaluates services and anticipated needs for a city or special district. A focused municipal service review addresses those services and needs for a designated area within the jurisdiction. The focused municipal service review for the city of Murrieta will determine the water service delivery infrastructure requirements, costs, ﬁnancing requirements, revenue and rate

projections needed for the city to plan for future redevelopment and new development within the focus area. The original agreement with West Yost expired Dec. 31, 2020. The coronavirus restrictions prevented the ﬁnal public presentation and the subsequent LAFCO public hearing, so the amendment approved Jan. 2 , 2021, by the LAFCO board extended the agreement until June 30, 2021. The original agreement included a project management team in the

West Yost proposal, but Stephen Dopudja and Jon Wells left West Yost in early January and formed the Dopudja Wells Consulting firm. The amended agreement with West Yost called for Dopudja and Wells to be retained as subcontractors to West Yost through a subconsultant agreement. West Yost sought to include Dopudja Wells as a subconsultant but was unable to reach an agreement, and Feb. 10 West Yost notified LAFCO executive officer ary Thompson that West

Yost was not able to conﬁrm the services of Dopudja and Wells. LAFCO staff is now determining whether to complete the focused municipal service review by retaining Dopudja and Wells through a separate LAFCO agreement or whether to complete the focused municipal service review using LAFCO personnel only. Joe Naiman can be reached by email at naiman@reedermedia. com.

Flood control district grants 3rd Street Channel easement to SCE Joe Naiman WRITER

The Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District granted an easement along the district’s Third Street Channel property to Southern California Edison. A 5-0 vote, March 2, by the Riverside County Board of Supervisors, who are also the board members of the Riverside County Flood Control and Water Con-

servation District, authorized the conveyance of the easement, authorized the district’s general manager-chief engineer or his designee to execute the necessary documents and take any other necessary actions to complete the transaction and found the conveyance of the easement for existing facilities exempt from California Environmental uality Act review. Although the district is not asking compensation from Southern California Edison, SCE will be

ﬁnancially responsible for all of the district and county’s transaction processing costs. The Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District owns property within the Lake Elsinore city limits which is associated with the Third Street Channel. In 1933 Southern California Edison was granted an easement for the transmission of power and for associated transmission lines and poles. That easement is along a southeasterly access road.

The commercial property adjacent to that road has been developed and thus requires electrical service. The existing SCE easement is approximately 33 feet from the property line. SCE requested that the county dedicate a 4-footwide easement for the installation and maintenance of underground power conduits which will provide electrical service and be connected to the existing transmission line. The total easement area is approximately 132 square feet.

Staff from the flood control district determined that conveying the easement to SCE would not interfere with the district’s use of the property. The district also reviewed the utility improvement plans and approved those plans, and an encroachment permit has been issued to SCE. Joe Naiman can be reached by email at naiman@reedermedia. com.

NATIONAL NEWS

How Cuomo investigation, possible impeachment could play out Michael R. Sisak and Marina Villeneuve THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

ov. Andrew Cuomo has urged ew Yorkers to “wait for the facts.” Patience, though, has grown thin. The state’s two U.S. senators, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Sen. Kirsten illibrand, and most of the 27 other members of ew York’s congressional delegation have called for his resignation. In the state legislature, more than 120 lawmakers have called on the Democrat to quit. Leaders in the state Assembly Thursday, March 11, announced an impeachment investigation, a first step toward potentially removing Cuomo from office. Cuomo has rebuffed calls to resign and staked his political future on the outcome of an independent investigation by Attorney eneral Letitia James, who is examining allegations that the governor sexually harassed or inappropriately touched several female aides. Here’s a look at the next steps on a possible road to impeachment Attorney general’ s investigation James, an independently elected Democrat, hired former acting U.S attorney Joon Kim and employment discrimination attorney Anne Clark to lead her inquiry into the governor’s workplace conduct. The investigative team will have the power to subpoena documents and interview witnesses. Its findings will go in a public report. Cuomo has since said that he will “fully cooperate.” James lacks power to unilaterally remove Cuomo from office, but any findings corroborating the allegations could sway potential impeachment proceedings – or add pressure for Cuomo to leave voluntarily. Kim and Clark may choose to limit their scope to allegations that are already public, or broaden it to look for other women who might have complaints about Cuomo’s behavior. James’ office sent a letter last

week instructing the governor’s office to preserve all evidence related to the harassment allegations. It could include documents and emails to and from Cuomo’s staff, calendar entries and communications involving the transfer of one of his accusers to another office. There is no deadline for completing the investigation, and James hasn’t said how long she expects it to take. A 2010 investigation that Cuomo oversaw as attorney general into his predecessor, ov. David Paterson, lasted about five months. Andrew . Celli Jr., who was chief of the civil rights bureau in the office of attorney general from 1999 to 2003, said that while James is a Democrat, her independence would allow her to “do what she thinks is in the best interest of all the people, even if that means an adverse finding to the governor.” The judiciary committee The Assembly’s Judiciary Committee will also have power to subpoena documents and witness testimony. It could rely on work done by the attorney general’s team of investigators or gather its own evidence. The scope of its inquiry might go beyond Cuomo’s conduct with women. The governor is also under fire for his handling of the COVID-19 crisis in the state’s nursing homes. Many lawmakers have been outraged that the Cuomo administration declined, for months, to release the full number of nursing home patients killed by the virus. The governor’s office said some of the data, related to deaths of nursing home patients who had been transferred to hospitals, was unreliable. But in a recorded conference call with lawmakers, Cuomo’s top aide said the administration withheld the data in late summer because it was afraid the fatality numbers could be “used against us.” Federal investigators are scrutinizing how the Cuomo administration handled data about nursing home deaths. The committee’s work could result in the drafting of articles

his photo from ednesday, Feb. 2 , 201 , shows ew ork ov. Andrew Cuomo, left, and Lt. ov. athy Hochul during a cabinet meeting at the Capitol in Albany, ew ork. photo/ i e G oll ile photo

of impeachment against Cuomo, though that outcome is far from certain. One of the women who has reportedly accused Cuomo of groping her has not spoken publicly about what happened, and it is unclear whether she would be willing to offer public testimony in an impeachment trial. The impeachment process ew York’s process for impeaching and removing a governor from office has some parallels – and some important differences – to the process the U.S. Congress uses for impeaching presidents. Like at the federal level, ew York impeachments starts in lower house of the legislature – in this case, the Assembly. If a majority of members vote to impeach Cuomo, a trial on his removal from office would be held in what’s known as the Impeachment Court. The court consists not only of members of the state Senate, but also judges of the state’s highest court, the Court of Appeals, who would also cast votes. There are seven appeals court judges and 63 senators, though not all would serve on the impeachment court. Lt. ov. Kathy Hochul and Senate Majority Leader Andrea

Stewart-Cousins are also members, but they are excluded when a governor is on trial. At least two-thirds of the jurors must vote to convict to remove Cuomo. Democrats control both chambers of the Legislature. Many have joined Republicans in calling for Cuomo’s resignation or impeachment in recent days. Cuomo has appointed all seven members of the Court of Appeals. ew York has only impeached a governor once, in 1913, when ov. William Sulzer was bounced after 2 9 days in oﬃce in what he claimed was retribution for turning his back on the powerful Tammany Hall Democratic machine. Sulzer, accused of failing to report thousands of dollars in campaign contributions and commingling campaign funds with personal funds, blasted the court’s secret deliberations, complaining “A horse thief in frontier days would have received a squarer deal.” Sidelining Cuomo If Cuomo were impeached by the Assembly, state law might force him to step aside immediately – a diﬀerence from what happens when the U.S. president is impeached. A section of the state’s judicial

code regarding impeachment states “ o officer shall exercise his office, after articles of impeachment against him shall have been delivered to the Senate, until he is acquitted.” According to the state constitution, the lieutenant governor would then take over. “In case the governor is impeached, is absent from the state or is otherwise unable to discharge the powers and duties of the office of governor, the lieutenantgovernor shall act as governor until the inability shall cease or until the term of the governor shall expire,” according to the state’s constitution. When Sulzer was impeached, Lt. ov. Martin lynn was appointed acting governor. If Cuomo were to be acquitted in an impeachment court, he would return to office. If the Impeachment Court were to remove him from office, Hochul would serve out the remainder of Cuomo’s term – through the end of 2022. The court could also opt to disqualify him from holding office in the future, on top of removing him. Villeneuve reported from Albany, New ork.

Valley News • www. m yva lleynews. co m

• M arch 1 9 , 20 21

FAITH

How to resolve a conflict

Zachary Elliott SPECIAL TO VALLEY NEWS

I’m pretty sure we’ve all been there. Dealing with diﬃcult situations within relationships is hard and sometimes downright aggravating. The question is, how do we deal with it Here are six steps on how to resolve con ict in your relationships. Decide to be kind. You would think it would be conflict resolution 101, but it’s not. It’s almost so fundamental that people forget it. Here’s the truth. It’s hard, if not impossible, to be in continual con ict when

you choose to be kind. Kindness is a con ict killer. Ephesians 4 31-32 said, “ et rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ od forgave you.” otice how kindness is the nemesis of con ict. You get to decide which one you use. Have a soft answer. Have you ever made a situation worse by just opening your mouth Yep, me too. And it usually happens when I respond harshly. Proverbs 15 1 said, “A gentle answer de ects anger, but harsh words make tempers are.” What you need to remember is tone matters. It can either be gas on the ﬁre or water. You decide by the sound of your voice. Choose not to e o ended Let’s be honest. A fair amount of the con icts you face in life are because you decided to be offended. Am I right Proverbs 19 11 said, “A per-

son’s wisdom yields patience; it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense.” Did you catch that It’s to your glory to choose not to be offended. Let me help you with this in four words. Ju st let it go. Proverbs 17 9 said, “Love prospers when a fault is forgiven, but dwelling on it separates close friends.” Remember, you might be wrong. I know there is a small, minuscule chance of it, but it’s possible you could be the reason for the con ict. Yikes Ecclesiastes 7 21-22 said, “Do not pay attention to every word people say, or you may hear your servant cursing you – for you know in your heart that many times you yourself have cursed others.” Is it possible that the con ict you’re facing right now is because of your pride, stubbornness or bad attitude It’s worth a look. Be the one to ma e the first move. The question is, how long are

you going to let the con ict go on Days, weeks, months, or a year It’s time to end it if you can. That con ict is hindering your relationship with od. Jesus said, “If you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift,” in Matthew 5 23-24. Reconciliation is a godly thing. Do it if you can. Be the bigger person and act like Jesus. I realize that not all relationships can be reconciled. That’s where Step 6 comes in. Let go of unforgiveness. Some people just won’t reconcile, and some relationships are difficult. Whatever your case is for your con ict, forgiveness is an absolute must. Jesus said, “When you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may

Good Friday ood Friday commemorates the trial, punishment and crucifixion of Christ. Though the official presiding over the trial of Jesus, Pontius Pilate, found no evidence of Jesus’s guilt in relation to the charges filed against him, he ultimately agreed to Christ’s crucifixion to appease the crowd and avoid a riot. As a result, Christ was stripped, ogged and crowned with thorns before being made to carry his cross through the streets to the place where he was ultimately crucified. On ood Friday, the tabernacle inside Catholic churches is left empty to symbolize that Christ is departed. Holy Saturday The final day of Holy Week,

Holy Saturday is a day to remember that Christ descended into hell, where he preached the gospel and opened the way to heaven for all those who were worthy. It is a day of prayer, remembrance and thankfulness. Resurrection Sunday Resurrection Sunday celebrates the resurrection of Jesus from the tomb on the third day after his cruciﬁxion. It is the fulﬁlled prophecy of the Messiah who would be persecuted, die for each person’s sins and rise on the third day, according to Crosswalk. Remembering the resurrection of Jesus is a way Christians renew daily hope that they have victory over sin.

forgive you your sins,” In Mark 11 25. It’s time, don’t you think Time to give it to od and to stop dwelling on it. It’s time to stop letting the hurt and unforgiveness eat you from the inside out. Give it to God and be at peace. Think about it How can you act like Jesus in your con ict Who do you need to forgive Who do you need to ask for forgiveness Verse of the Day “ et rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ od forgave you,” Ephesians 4 31-32. Z achary E lliott is the lead pastor of F usion C hristian C hurch in Temecula. For more information, visit https: / / www. fusionchristianchurch.com, http: / / www. encouragementtoday.tv or nd them on Instagram.

Explaining Holy Week TEMECULA – Easter is a significant holiday for Christians across the globe. Though Easter Sunday is when Christians gather to celebrate their faith, the week preceding Easter Sunday is full of significant events as well. Known as Holy Week, the week preceding Easter begins with Palm Sunday, March 2 , and ends with Resurrection Sunday, April 4. Holy Week commemorates different events that unfolded over the final days of Jesus Christ’s life. Palm Sunday According to Catholic Online, Palm Sunday celebrates the entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem. On the day of Christ’s entry into Jerusalem, residents laid palms before him, which is why palms

are distributed to the Christian faithful each year during Palm Sunday Mass. Palms are blessed at Mass, and many Christians turn their palms into crosses upon arriving home. The palms are eventually returned to the church, where they are burned, and the ashes of the palms are then used during the following year’s Ash Wednesday services. Holy Thursday Holy Thursday commemorates the Last Supper, when Jesus celebrated the Passover feast with his disciples and washed their feet in an example of humility and service. In the story of Jesus Christ, the night of the Last Supper was the same night that Jesus was betrayed by his disciple, Judas.

Holy eek commemorates di erent events that unfolded over the ﬁnal days of esus Christ s life. Valley News/Courtesy photo

Families can navigate Easter celebrations in the era of social distancing TEMECULA – Holidays have been celebrated differently since the outbreak of COVID-19 in late 2019. Easter was among the first major holidays to be celebrated differently in 2020, and celebrations likely won’t return to normal in 2021. Celebrations and social distancing make strange bedfellows; however, it’s possible for people to safely celebrate Easter with their loved ones. Watch virtual church service together or attend an outdoor service. Though it might not be the

same as attending Mass or church in person together as a family, watching virtual service together can allow families to engage with their faith alongside one another. If the weather permits, attend an outdoor church service or use a projector and set up church outside so families can safely watch in the backyard. Make sure everyone wears masks and keeps their distance. If the weather is not cooperating, families can still watch the service together, even if they’re not gathered in the same space. Set up a family oom call

via a smartphone or laptop and then ask all on the call to watch a livestream on another device. Take Easter brunch outside. An outdoor brunch also provides a way for families to gather this Easter without compromising their health. Brunch makes more sense than dinner since it can be eaten in early afternoon when the weather is likely to be warmer than it will be at dinnertime. Heat lamps can add some warmth to outdoor Easter brunches. Host an egg hunt in the backyard. The Easter egg hunt is one

tradition that need not be sacriﬁced during the pandemic. Easter egg hunts traditionally take place outdoors, and children can wear masks like when they attend school or participate in sports and other extracurricular activities. Find new egg hunt ideas for children online. Host an Easter movie night. Families isolating and spending the day with only those in their own households can watch a movie that commemorates their Christian faith. Various ﬁlms are set around Easter, including the

classic “The reatest Story Ever Told” from 1965, starring Max von Sydow and Claude Rains and the more recent “Risen” in 2016, which focuses on eﬀorts by a Roman military tribune named Clavius, played by Joseph Fiennes, who is tasked with investigating what happened to Jesus Christ’s body after the cruciﬁxion. Families can embrace some old and new traditions as they celebrate Easter in the era of social distancing.

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Local

Bo illed vehicle in Pine Cove

Volume 21, Issue 12

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HU SD board votes to transition to hybrid learning model

City News Service SPECIAL TO ANZA VALLEY OUTLOOK

A boy was killed by a vehicle in the unincorporated community of Pine Cove Sunday, March 14. Michael Rigg, a 7-year-old from Beaumont, was struck about 2 50 p.m. in the 5200 block of Sylvan Way, according to the California Highway Patrol. see page AVO -2

Local

ro sec res rant for senior food program Diane Sieker STAFF WRITER

The Friends Uniting eighbors roup Inc. announced that they have secured much needed funds to continue feeding older adults in the Anza Valley. see page AVO -3

Local

Children can participate in the hybrid model of learning at the H amilton and Cottonw ood schools in Anza and Aguanga. Anza Valley O utlook/ D iane Sieke r photo

Diane Sieker STAFF WRITER

The Hemet Uniﬁed School District’s governing board approved the staff’s recommendation of

beginning the transition to a hybrid learning model at their meeting Tuesday, March 9. HUSD’s COVID-19 Safety Plan was submitted Wednesday, March 10, to the Riverside County

ollar eneral ﬁnall

n a Comm nit Hall to host COVID-19 vaccination clinic

Department of Public Health and California’s Safe Schools for All. The district said it anticipated that its plan will be approved by the county and the state before Monday, March 29.

A hybrid learning model is where a portion of face-to-face instruction and learning activity is replaced by web-based online see HU SD , page AVO -3

rea s ro nd in n a

Diane Sieker STAFF WRITER

The Anza Community Hall will host a COVID-19 vaccination clinic Tuesday, March 23, from 30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Riverside County Health Department will be providing the vaccines eligible groups as supplies allow. see page AVO -4

After an almost nine-year process, the variety store Dollar eneral broke ground at the lot next to the Community Hall in Anza Thursday, March 11. Residents noticed construction fencing being erected on the property beside the Community Hall and across Route 371 from the Circle K. “The original documents proposing a dollar store on the parcel next to the Community Hall were submitted to the county in 2012,” Bill Donahue said. “Ultimately that developer walked away.” In 2015, a developer for Dollar eneral approached the board of directors of the Anza Community Building Inc. with a proposal that would allow the development

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID HEMET, CA PERMIT #234

see G ENERA L, page AVO -4

The new

Dollar General store breaks ground in Anza .

Anza Valley O utlook/ D iane Sieke r photo

Snow eo le in ade n a The winter storm system that blew through the Anza Valley Wednesday, March 10, through Friday, March 12, left several inches of snow, creating a winter wonderland. As the flurries came to an end and the sun shone through the fast-moving clouds, fun-loving children of all ages emerged from their warm homes to create unique snow people. Some residents reported up to inches of snow, while Lake Riverside Estates experienced 1-2 inches in places. o matter the depth of the snow, snow people popped up in many neighborhoods. Diane Siek er can be reached by email at dsiek er@ reedermedia. com.

ANZA VALLEY OUTLOOK

USPS POSTAL CUSTOMER

Diane Sieker STAFF WRITER

see m ore SNOWP EOP LE, page AVO -5

The B ranco f amily engineers an early morning snow man Thursday, March 1 1 .

Anz a Valley O utlook /Courtesy photo

AVO -2

Anza Valley O utlook • www. anza va lleyoutlook. co m

• M arch 1 9 , 20 21

A N Z A’ S U P C O M I N G E V E N T S Due to the ongoing C O V I D-1 9 pandemic and changing health orders, visitors to any event should contact the event organiz er to determine if the event is b eing held and what safety measures are in place to protect attendees from the virus. I f y ou have an upcoming community event, email it to anz aeditor@ reedermedia. com, put “ attention events” in the sub j ect line. ONGOING – Anza Electric Cooperative and F.I. .D. Food Bank oﬀers free mobile food pantry the second Saturday of every month at the AEC oﬃce, 5 470 Highway 371, from 10 30-11 30 a.m. All are welcome. Cal-Fresh application assistance and free community health services are also available. Bring your own

. a n z a v a l l e y o u t l o o k . c o m

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A A VALLEY OUTLOOK ISS 0 36124 is a legally adjudicated paper, AKA AMERICA OUTLOOK, is published weekly by the The Village ews, Inc., 15 S. Mission Rd. 200, Fallbrook, CA 9202 . POSTMASTER Send address changes to Anza Valley Outlook, P.O. Box 391353, Anza, CA 92539. A A VALLEY OUTLOOK IS OT RESPO SIBLE FOR THE CORRECT ESS OF OPI IO S OR I FORMATIO OR ERRORS PRI TED I THIS PAPER, OR FOR A Y JOB, SERVICE OR SALES ITEM. IT IS YOUR RESPO SIBILITY TO CHECK OUT ALL ADS. Anza Valley Outlook is a newspaper of general circulation printed and published weekly in the City of Anza, County of Riverside, and which newspaper has been adjudged a newspaper of general circulation by the Superior Court of the County of Riverside, State of California, March 14, 19 6; Case umber 176045.

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d ertisin olic Acceptance of an advertisement by Valley ews does not necessarily constitute an endorsement of its sponsors or the products offered. We will not knowingly publish advertisements that are fraudulent, libelous, misleading or contrary to the policies of Valley ews. We reserve the right to reject any advertisement we find unsuitable. Please direct all advertising inquiries and correspondence to the address below. etters to the ditor Please submit all correspondence to our corporate office by e-mail to anz aeditor@ reedermedia. com or by fax to 760 723-9606. All correspondence must be dated, signed and include the writer’s full address and phone number in order to be considered for publication. All letters are submitted to editing to fit the the publication’s format. Bac ss es aila le A limited number of previous issues of Valley ews and Anza Valley Outlook prior to current week are available for 1.50 each, plus 1.00 postage and handling 2.50 total cost . Call 760 723-7319 to order.

Anza Valley Outlook and Valley News Published weekly Mail to Corporate Oﬃce 111 W. Alvarado St. Fallbrook, CA 92028 (951) 763-5510 FAX (760) 723-9606 Corporate Oﬃce: (760) 723-7319 OUR E-MAIL ADDRESSES: anz aeditor@reedermedia.com info@reedermedia.com sales@reedermedia.com circulation@reedermedia.com

reusable bags to take food home. Volunteers welcome. For more information, contact the AEC oﬃce at 951-763-4333. e lar Ha enin s Hamilton High School – Find out what is happening using Hamilton’s online calendar at http www.hamiltonbobcats.net apps events calendar . Hamilton se m 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Open Wednesdays and Saturdays at 39991 Contreras Road in Anza. For more information, call 951-763-1350 or visit http www.hamiltonmuseum. org. Find them on Facebook at “Hamilton-Museum-and-RanchFoundation.” Health e ercise reso rces and recovery meetings arcotics non mo s eet ing – 6 p.m. Every Tuesday at Shepherd Of The Valley Church, 56095 Pena Road, in Anza. Open participation. Veterans’ Gathering M ondays – 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 951-923-6153. If you need an advocate to help with VA benefits, call Ronnie Imel at 951-659-9 4. The M ost Excellent Way – Christ-centered recovery program for all kinds of addiction meets Fridays from 7- 30 p.m. and Tuesdays from -10 a.m. Program is court approved; child care is provided. Transportation help is available. The group meets at 5 050 Highway 371; the cross street is Kirby Road in Anza. en s eetin 7 p.m. Meetings take place Thursdays at 39551 Kirby Road in Anza, south of Highway 371. lcoholics non mo s p.m. Wednesday evenings at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 56095 Pena Road in Anza. For more information, call 951-763-4226. Berea ed arents of the S – The Aguanga-Anza Chapter of BPUSA will hold its meetings 6 p.m. on the first and third Wednesday of each month at 49109 Lakeshore Blvd. in Aguanga. For more information, contact chapter leader Linda Hardee at 951-551-2 26. Free M obile Health Clinic – Open every third Wednesday of the month from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. o appointment is needed. Uninsured may only be seen in the Anza Community Hall’s parking lot or inside the hall. edication ssistance and Treatment for Opioid Dependence – et treatment for heroin addiction. Transportation to the clinic is provided. For more information, contact Borrego Health’s Anza Community Health Center, 5 5 1 Route 371, in Anza. For more information, call 951-763-4759. Food ministries ro wee l food

ministry – Deliveries arrive noon Thursdays at the Anza Community Hall. To order a paid box and help feed those who can’t afford to pay, drop off payment and cash donations by Thursday at 1 30 p.m., to ERA Excel Realty, 56070 Highway 371, in Anza. Pay inside or drop off during the day in the red box outside. To drop it off, put name and request on an envelope with payment inside. A 30 box has about 100 worth of food and feeds six people. Half boxes are available for 15. Food is delivered once a week to those who cannot find a ride. For more information, call Bill Donahue at 951-2 -0903. Living Hope Christian Fellowshi Comm nit inner – 1 p.m. Dinners are held the last Sunday of the month at the Anza Community Hall. All are welcome. Donations of time, money, etc. are always welcome. ood for the aithf l 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. Bi le St dies he Ch rch of es s Christ of atter da Saints in n a – Sunday Sacrament is held 10 a.m.; Sunday School is 11 a.m. Priesthood Relief Society meets noon; Wednesday Boy Scouts gathers 6 p.m. and Youth ight is 7 p.m. For more information, call Ruiz at 951-445-71 0 or athan at 760-399-0727. The Wednesday enealogy Family History Class, 5- p.m., is open to the public at 39075 Contreras Road in Anza. ati e i htho se ellow ship – 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 ella Heredia at 951-763-0 56. i in Ho e Bi le St d -10 a.m. Tuesdays at Living Hope Christian Fellowship, 5 050 Highway 371, in Anza. All are welcome. For more information, call Pastor Kevin at 951-763-1111. n a Cl ho se 7 p.m., the second Wednesday of the Month, Pastor Kevin officiates at 41560 Terwilliger Road in Anza. M onthly Christian M en’ s Brea fast 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. She herd of the alle theran Ch rch 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. n a irst So thern Ba tist Ch rch 9 a.m. The church offers Sunday school for all ages with a 10 30 a.m. worship service and 6 p.m. for prayer and Bible study. Youth ministry meets Mondays from 6- p.m. The women’s Bible study meets Thursdays at 10 a.m., but it is on hiatus through the summer. Celebrate Recovery meets Fridays; doors open at 5 30 p.m. with large group meeting, 6-7 p.m.; small group share, 7- p.m. and Cross Talk Cafe, - 30 p.m. Church is located at 39200 Rolling Hills Road in Anza. For more information, contact at 951-7634937, anz ab ptistchurch@ gmail. com or http www.anzabaptistchurch.com. Cl s TOPS M eeting – Take Off Pounds Sensibly support group meets Wednesdays weekly. Weigh in at 30 a.m., meeting at 45 a.m. at Thompson Hall at the Anza Baptist Church, 39200 Rolling Hills Road, in Anza. For more information, visit http www.TOPS.org. Hi h Co ntr ecreation Second Monday of the month attend committee meetings at ERA Excel Realty in Anza. For more information, call Albert Rodriguez at 951-492-1624 or Robyn arrison at 05-312-0369. HC Bin o f ndraisers 6 30-9 30 p.m. second and fourth Fridays at Anza Community Hall. n a alle ost – 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 vfw1 8 7 3 anz aca@ gmail. com. For more information, call 951-763-4439 or visit http vfw1 73.org. Hi h Co ntr H Cl 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. n a alle rtists eetin s – 1 p.m. Meetings are third Saturday of each month at various locations. Share art, ideas and participate in shows. uests speakers are always needed. For more information, call president Rosie rindle at 951-92 -124 . Find helpful art tips at http www.facebook.com AnzaValleyArtists . n a ilter s Cl 9 30 a.m. to noon. Meets the first and third Tuesday of each month at the Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 56095 Pena Road, in Anza. n a alle ions Cl The Anza Valley Lions Club is open to all men and women who want to work together for the betterment of the community. uest meetings with dinner are held 7 p.m. on the first Monday of each month at Anza Valley VFW Post 1 73, 59011 Bailey Road, in Anza. Meetings and events are posted on the Anza Lions Club website, http www.anzalionsclub.org. For more information, call president Michele Brown at 760-637-9173. Bo Sco ts roo Cub Scouts meet 6 p.m. every Tuesday, and Boy Scouts meet 7 p.m.

every Wednesday at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Contreras Road, south of state Route 371, in Anza. For more information, call Richard Hotchkiss at 951-551-3154. Bo s Sco ts roo Boy Scouts meet at Lake Riverside Estates. For more information, call inny Kinser at 909-7027902. Ci il ir atrol Squadron 59 is looking for new members of all ages. For more information, call squadron commander Maj. Dennis Sheehan from the Anza area at 951-403-4940. To learn more and see the club’s meeting schedule, visit http www. squadron59.org. Fire Explorer Program – 6 p.m. The program meets every second, third and fourth Tuesday of the month at Fire Station 29 on state Route 371 in Anza. Call 951-763-5611 for information. edshan iders – 7 p.m. Backcountry horsemen meet at the Little Red Schoolhouse in Anza, the second Thursday of each month. Visit http www. redshankriders.com or call Carol Schmuhl for membership information at 951-663-6763. n a him le Cl The club meets the first Thursday of the month at Valley ospel Chapel, 43275 Chapman Road in Anza. The social hour is 11 30 a.m., and lunch is served at noon. Contact Carol Wright at 951763-2 4 for more information. r ani ations erwilli er Comm nit s sociation – 6 p.m. Second Monday of the month at VFW Post 1 73, 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 M inistries – oon. Monthly luncheon and guest speaker are held the second Saturday of each month. The 5 charge covers lunch at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 56095 Pena Road, in Anza. From the Heart helps the area’s neediest children and invites all women and men to join in their mission. Donate or help with the rummage sales twice a year to raise funds for the cause or other events. For more information, call president Christi James at 951-595-2400. n a Comm nit Hall 7 p.m. eneral membership meetings are held the fourth Thursday of the month. Memberships cost 20 per person or 35 per business, and both get one vote. o government funds are allocated for the Hall, which pays its bills through memberships and swap meets. Voting members receive discounts oﬀ hall rentals, swap meet booths and save on propane gas from Farrell as. Mail membership to Anza Community Building Inc. at P.O. Box 390091, Anza, CA 92539. The hall is located at 56630 Highway 371 in Anza. Swap meet held each Saturday of the month, weather permitting, early morning to 1 p.m. Vendors wanted. For more information, call 951-2 2-4267. n a Ci ic m ro ement ea e 9 a.m. meets the ﬁrst Saturday of each month at the Little Red Schoolhouse. The league maintains Minor Park and Little Red School House, which are both available to rent for events. o government funds are allowed; the membership pays the bills – 10 a person, 1 family or 35 business membership. For more information, visit http www.anzacivic.org.

Boy killed by vehicle in Pine Cove City News Service SPECIAL TO ANZA VALLEY OUTLOOK

An air ambulance was initially requested and paramedics on the ground performed CPR on the boy while the helicopter was en route, according to a CHP log; however, the Riverside County Coroner’s Oﬃce was later called to the scene. The boy was pronounced dead at 3 45 p.m.. according to the county coroner’s oﬃce, at the Cal Fire Keenwild Station in Idyllwild.

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• Anza Valley O utlook

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F.U.N. Group secures grant for senior food program Diane Sieker STAFF WRITER

The Friends Uniting eighbors roup Inc. announced that they have secured much needed funds to continue feeding older adults in the Anza Valley. “We just had another 20,000 grant approved by the Riverside County Office on Aging, which will allow us to restore the Senior Food Box Program for the next few months,” Bill Donahue said. The program resumed Thursday, March 1 , and will continue until the funds are exhausted. The money should provide boxes of nutritious food for people 65 and older through the end of May. “Our primary funding mechanism is through upgraded food boxes given out in exchange for recommended 30 donation. They are ordered using the same process as the senior boxes,” Donahue said. The F.U. . roup has been seeking additional county, state or federal grants to continue to help feed local older adults in the Anza Valley and surrounding areas. In 2020, Bill and oel Donahue said that a significant number of older people in the area were not coming for the free food boxes available at the weekly distribution event at the Anza Community Hall. The F.U. . roup’s resources were already stretched thin due to the pandemic and increased need, while during the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for food assistance increased greatly, the couple said. “Thanks to our county supervisor Chuck Washington and his staff, the F.U. . roup was given some grant money aimed at helping out nonprofit corporations with the increased costs associated with COVID-19,” Donahue said. “That helped Friends Uniting eighbors cover the increased food costs until about ovember 2020.” Then the Riverside County Office on Aging provided a grant specifically to offset the costs of providing food boxes to people over 65 years of age. “We understood that this grant would be a one-time source of revenue. The response from seniors taking advantage of this program was greater than was anticipated and the grant funds were consumed in only two months. The senior food box program, paid for by these grant funds ended this January,” he said. Other grants have been applied

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learning. An online course is one in which all instruction and learning activities occur online. The hybrid learning reopening dates are Monday, March 29 preschool, transitional kindergarten through second grade; Monday, April 12 third through sixth grades and ninth grade and Monday, April 19 seventh, eighth and 10th through 12th grades. HUSD has provided additional information to families regarding the learning options that will be available so that families can make an informed decision about which learning model is best for their family. “We understand your concerns and know that each family’s situation is diﬀerent, which is why we wanted to provide options for our families,” according to a HUSD representative. “Please reach out to your child’s principal, as they can address your concerns further. We would like to thank HUSD’s risk management team, who have been working very closely with Riverside County Public Health to provide our staff with information about vaccine opportunities, should they want to receive one. The collaboration between ourselves and Public Health has provided vaccination and testing opportunities to not only HUSD staﬀ but our community as well. We would also like to recognize

A F riends U niting Neighbors Group volunteer loads boxe s of f ood into a recipient’ s truck.

for, including some Community Block Development rant funds from Riverside County. Many organizations are seeking bigger pieces of the smaller pool of grant resources, he said. “We lacked the funds needed to reach the senior population group. We sought out and obtained permission to accept EBT payments for the paid food boxes we give out in exchange for 15 or 30 donations,” Donahue said. Washington made a personal donation from his campaign funds to help the nonprofit bridge the gap, Donahue said. They also received a financial assistance grant from Riverside County. “We still felt that we were not reaching part of the at-risk senior population,” Donahue said. With the assistance of Washington’s legislative assistant, Opal Hellweg, Donahue contacted the Riverside County Office on Aging with a new proposal on how to more efficiently get food assistance to the older adult population. “We were awarded a 20,000 grant for our pilot program,” Donahue said. “ ov. 19, 2020, was the first day of that program. At that time, we had 37 new senior

families sign up with an additional 25 senior families already being added for Thanksgiving week.” Besides grants, the F.U. . roup also accepts EBT, credit and debit cards as well as cash for donations and box purchases to help fund the program. Anyone interested in a paid food box should text oel Donahue at 626-347-2701 by the close of business Wednesdays and come pick up their box at 11 15 a.m. at the single door of the Community Hall Thursdays. People and older adults wanting a free food box should line up in their vehicles at 10 a.m. Thursdays. The free food boxes are given out through the double doors. The F.U. . roup was established as a collection of like-minded people that joined together to beneﬁt the community. Members from multiple area churches, civic organizations and other groups come together as friends and neighbors united for the good of the community. Thanks to the F.U. . roup, the county of Riverside, the Community Pantry, as well as countless volunteers and community activists, Anza’s older adults are getting

our custodial and maintenance and operations employees for all of their hard work since the pandemic began. They have been deep cleaning, sanitizing and updating various cleaning procedures to protect our students and staff.” Since ovember, 14 of HUSD’s schools have had students on campus under small cohorts and have had staff reporting to work at each school site every day. School principals can provide answers to parent’s questions regarding their specific cleaning processes. Riverside County’s COVID-19 positivity case rates have declined significantly in the last few weeks. During this time, HUSD has been modifying its plan and identifying its options for a return to a hybrid learning model. These options were presented at the district’s governing board meeting Tuesday, March 9. “We ask all families to update their contact information in Aeries, including their emails, so they can receive all important information regarding next steps. We look forward to providing you with updated information as it becomes available,” according to the HUSD website. Riverside County Public Health clarified that all guidelines are directives by the California Department of Public Health. The guidance will apply to all public and private schools operating in California. The governor ordered

this public health directive in multiple executive orders that require that all California residents heed the guidance and directives of the state public health officer. Schools may comply with guidance from other federal, state, local and non-governmental sources to the extent those guidelines are consistent with state and local public health directives. In 2020, the district began significant planning efforts beginning with parent surveys. Based on emerging information for state and local authorities, significantly influenced by parent feedback on teaching and learning, the district convened work groups composed of teachers, administrators and classified employees to begin building a continuum of instructional and operational plans preparing for reopening schools in one of several configurations, including hybrid models. All HUSD board meetings are available to the public on YouTube through an audio livestream. The link is available on the district website and hard copies of the agenda are posted at the district office with directions on how to access the audio livestream. For more information, visit the HUSD online at https www. hemetusd.org or call 951-7655100. Diane Siek er can be reached by email at dsiek er@ reedermedia. com.

Anza Valley O utlook/ D iane Sieke r photo

the food they need. To learn more about the F.U. . roup, email them at friendsunitingneighbor s@ gmail.c om.

Diane Siek er can be reached by email at dsiek er@ reedermedia. com.

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Anza Community Hall to host COVID-19 vaccination clinic Diane Sieker STAFF WRITER

The Anza Community Hall will host a COVID-19 vaccination clinic Tuesday, March 23, from 30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Riverside County Health Department will be providing the vaccines to the following groups as supplies allow health care workers, long-term care residents, individuals 65 and older, sector populations in agriculture, food, education, child care and emergency services. According to Riverside County Public Health, a safe and eﬀective COVID-19 vaccine is one of the most important tools to end the COVID-19 pandemic. While the initial vaccine supply is limited, and California is making sure that these ﬁrst vaccines are distributed

and administered equitably, according to the state. The ﬁrst vaccines were provided to health care workers and residents of long-term care facilities. The continuing availability of the vaccines are enabling other groups to be vaccinated. Those with the highest risk of becoming infected and spreading COVID-19 will receive vaccines ﬁrst. While experts learn more about the protection vaccines provide, residents should continue wearing masks, washing their hands and staying 6 feet apart when in public. For questions about the COVID-19 vaccine, visit https covid19.ca.gov vaccines or email rivco. vaccines@ ruhealth. org to learn more. Diane Siek er can be reached by email at dsiek er@ reedermedia. com. Anza Community H all, seen during a f ood delivery f or F .U .N. Group, w ill host a CO V ID- 1 9 vaccination clinic Tuesday, March 23 , and eligible residents can sign up through the county w ebsite. Anza Valley O utlook/ D iane Sieke r photo

Movie Review: ‘Raya and the Last Dragon’ Bob Garver SPECIAL TO VALLEY NEWS

“Raya and the Last Dragon” was the first movie I saw in a ew York City theater in nearly a year. o testing the waters with small-scale releases, audiences got a major Disney animated feature on the first day theaters were reopened. And I’d like to take this moment to thank the staffs of the reopening theaters for jumping into action on less than two weeks’ notice to ensure a smooth moviegoing experience. While I’m at it, I want to thank the staffs of the theaters in central Pennsylvania that similarly answered the call back in August. And the staffs of other theaters at dates and places in between. And the ones yet to come. Ah, hooray for everybody Having the theaters back has me in a celebratory mood. The film takes place in a fictional kingdom somewhere in Southeast Asia. 500 years ago, evil spirits ran amok and turned the humans of the kingdom to stone. The magical dragons of the land concentrated all their power into an orb that brought the people back and imprisoned the spirits, but it turned the dragons to stone. It has been up to one family to protect the stone ever since, a difficult task considering the once-prosperous kingdom has since splintered into five tribes that all distrust one another.

Raya, played by Kelly Marie Tran, is the daughter of Chief Benja, played by Daniel Dae Kim, of the Heart Tribe. The beginning of the film sees her pass a test that makes her the newest guardian of the orb. Her first job comes when her father invites the other four tribes for a peace summit. Raya makes the mistake of showing the orb to amaari, the daughter of the chief of another tribe. amaari immediately turns on Raya, and the squabble causes the orb to be broken into five pieces – one for each tribe. The shattering also releases the evil spirits that were defeated 500 years ago. They set right back to turning people into stone, including Raya’s father. After an “Avengers Endgame”style six year wait, Raya finally finds a dragon that can turn things around for humanity. Sisu, played by Awkwafina, is a big blue magical creature that comes along at about the one-third mark and injects ill-fittingly modern comedy into the movie. Somebody high-up on this movie’s creative team was big fan of the genie from “Aladdin.” Together Raya and Sisu travel around to the different tribes collecting pieces of the orb to reassemble. They make friends along the way, like a 10-yearold restaurateur, played by Izaac Wang; a gruff softie barbarian, played by Benedict Wong, and a con-artist baby. On their tail is

amaari, played by emma Chan, who is determined to not let them reassemble the orb, because once people come back from being stone, they’ll turn on her and her tribe for breaking the orb in the ﬁrst place. The message of the movie is a nice one about trust and nonviolence. The animation is amazing as always, with lip and facial movements so realistic they’d fall into the Uncanny Valley if the animation around them wasn’t so competent. The action sequences are frantic and funny, and Sisu always has some creative trick up her sleeve. The only area where the movie lacks is in its script and dialogue. I’ve already mentioned the out-ofplace comedy stylings of the very of-her-time Awkwafina – she’s much better in serious scenes – there are also problems with low stakes as knowing that the people turned to stone can be brought back just turns the movie into a waiting game and predictability as the movie ticks all the Disney boxes about animal sidekicks, magical quests and lesson-learning. It turns what could have been a great Disney animated movie into an OK one. But after a year away, the big screen makes even an OK Disney movie like “Raya and the Last Dragon” seem like a great one. rade B

“Raya and the Last Dragon” is playing in theaters and available on Disney Plus with Premier Access for 29.99 in addition to the subscription fee. The ﬁlm is rated

P for some violence, action and thematic elements. Its running time is 107 minutes. C ontact Bob G arver at rrg2 51 @ ny u.e du.

Low-maintenance lawn alternatives TEMECULA – A traditional lawn may not be right for every property nor desired by every homeowner. Lawns take time and effort to establish and daily or weekly maintenance to thrive. Homeowners who find that a traditional lawn is not practical can explore some low-maintenance alternatives. ild ower meadow Homeowners with wide swaths of property may discover meadows are cost- and time-efficient. Stores sell special wildflower meadow mixes of seeds or homeowners can use wild ower plug plants throughout areas where grasses are left to grow longer. This natural area can be a home to wildlife and an idyllic backdrop to a home. Most meadows only require a spring or summer and autumn cut to thrive and look good. Ornamental grasses Partition areas of the property for ornamental grasses to grow. The gardening resource Elemental reen said ornamental grasses tend to be drought-resistant and G ENERA L o

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without violating the court order against commercial development in the US v. Fallbrook water rights suit. While the Community Hall is privately owned by the nonproﬁt corporation, Anza Community Building Inc., the state water boards listed their well as a transient public water system. There are a number of these existing water systems in the Anza Valley area. The court order allows such existing systems to add new connections. “In exchange for allowing the connection, the developer for Dollar eneral was going to make major improvements at the

low-maintenance. They won’t need much fertilizer and are often resistant to pests as well. Ornamental grasses grow in tufts or sprays and will not require mowing; however, they are not ideal for areas that get foot traﬃc. M oss Moss can thrive in shady areas and ones where the soil tends to stay a bit damp. Moss is velvety soft and green, so it can mimic the look of a traditional lawn but won’t require mowing and other upkeep. Because it spreads quickly, moss can take over quite rapidly. You will need to protect areas where you do not want moss by creating barriers to stop spread. Gravel Stone and gravel areas can reduce maintenance in the landscape and require very little upkeep. When gravel is installed correctly, weeds may not grow readily. ravel installation may include laying heavyduty, semi-permeable landscape fabric, which is available in home improvement centers. ravel is

cheaper than pavers and can be just as beautiful. rtiﬁcial t rf If the desired look is a lawn without all the upkeep, there are

various artiﬁcial grass options on the market. Homeowners who opt for artiﬁcial turf can save money and space devoted to lawn mowers and other lawn tools.

rass may be ideal for some, but there are alternatives for people who have troublesome landscapes or desire a low-maintenance product for their homes.

Community Hall,” Donahue said. “However, that developer failed to close the deal, and by 2019, it looked like the whole project was going down the drain.” At that point, Dollar eneral contracted with the developer SimonCRE to salvage the stalled project, which meant renegotiating the entire deal. oel Donahue, president of the Community Hall, was sure that Dollar eneral would make enough proﬁt on a store in Anza that she held out for SimonCRE to pay for all the upgrades and repairs to the well, along with paying all cost of a new septic system and the associated easement. “Last summer it looked like the deal was set to close when sud-

denly someone realized that the 1-acre lot SimonCRE was buying had never been separated from the 9-acre lot it was part of. That process took us through December 2020, when escrow closing looked imminent. But someone forgot to submit a single document to the county, so the whole process had to be repeated. Finally in March 2021, escrow closed,” Donahue said. “Many people have already noticed that construction fencing has gone up. Construction is ﬁnally starting.” The Dollar eneral’s developer has agreed to make major upgrades to the Community Hall’s well and water system, as well as removing the existing, undersized bathroom septic system and the temporary

holding tank for the kitchen drain. They will then design and install a new, properly sized, combined septic system including a grease interceptor and new leach ﬁeld. Once that is completed the Community Hall will use grant funds to complete Americans Disabilities Act compliant upgrades to the parking and entry ramps. Dollar eneral Corporation is an American chain of variety stores headquartered in oodlettsville, Tennessee. As of January 2020, Dollar eneral operates over 16,000 stores in the continental U.S. The company was created in 1939 as a family-owned business called J. L. Turner and Son in Scottsville, Kentucky, owned

by James Luther Turner and Cal Turner. In 1955, the name changed to Dollar eneral Corporation, and in 196 , the company went public on the ew York Stock Exchange. Dollar eneral has grown to become one of the most proﬁtable stores in the rural United States with revenue reported at about 27 billion in 2019. Community Hall Board meetings are open to the public, and everyone is encouraged to attend. Information on the progress of the Dollar eneral is shared at these meetings. The next open board meeting will be Thursday, April 22, at 7 p.m. Diane Siek er can be reached by email at dsiek er@ reedermedia. com.

Homeowners who ﬁnd that a traditional lawn is not practical can explore some low-maintenance alternatives. Valley News/Courtesy photo

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