Valley News - March 25, 2023

Electric vehicle comments spark Lake Elsinore City Council meeting

The regular meeting of the Lake Elsinore City Council and Successor Agency on March 14 was brief and brisk as consent calendar items 1-9 were passed unanimously, as were Successor Agency Consent Calendar items 10-12.

Local schools, districts seeking to ll over 650 openings at education recruitment event

RIVERSIDE – From Murrieta to Blythe, Lake Elsinore to Palm Springs and nearly every district in-between, recruiters from Riverside County’s public school system will be seeking to fill more than 650 positions at the 2023 Countywide Education Recruitment Fair set for Saturday, March 25, at the Riverside County Office of Education Conference Center, 4280 Brockton Ave., in Riverside. The event is free and will be held from 9 a.m. to noon.

FBI, DOJ investigating TikTok over surveillance of Americans

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Justice are investigating Chinese company ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, for surveilling Americans, according to Forbes.

Valley News Staff

A vehicle fire was reported through 911 on Saturday, March 18 at 10:21 a.m. on SB-15 just north of SR-76. North County Fire Protection District was dispatched at 10:22 a.m. and arrived at 10:31 a.m.

On arrival, units located a fully engulfed foodliner semi with an attached tanker that had been carrying liquid sugar. Firefighters were quickly able to extinguish the fire and contain it to just the truck itself. A HAZMAT crew from San Diego was called to help with runoff. Two saddle tanks had ruptured, dumping fuel. “San Diego Fire-Rescue HAZMAT assisted with containment and disposal of the diesel fuel spill,” said NCFPD PIO John Choi.

“Firefighters were able to keep the fire contained to the truck. The trailer normally carries liquid sugar, but was empty at the time of the fire,” said Choi.

At around 11 a.m. a sig alert was issued due to the heavy traffic and emergency vehicles that were on the scene, as the truck needed to be towed and HAZMAT was still on the scene.

Lanes 3 and 4 were impacted.

There were no injuries reported.

The cause of the fire is unknown. Choi said it is under investigation and there is no additional information at this time.

Community leaders honored by San Jacinto Rotary

Valley News

The San Jacinto Rotary Community Foundation held its 14th annual community recognition dinner at a filled-to-capacity dining room at Emilio’s Restaurant in San Jacinto on March 13. Rotary President Vince Record said the awards are the club’s way of saying thank you to those who make outstanding contributions to the community.

Those honored were San Jacinto High School Coach Aric Galliano, San Jacinto Unified School District Classified Employee Valentin Sanchez, Sheriff’s Deputy Dennis Postle, Firefighter Richard Tovar, Nonprofit Soboba Foundation and its president Dondi Silvas, Business of the Year Arrow Printing and owner Kevin Walker and Citizen of the Year Debra Willis.

Each honoree was introduced and presented with a plaque. Willis will have her name added to the perpetual plaque that is displayed

see ROTARY, page A-4

Darell

Farnbach, Vail Ranch

Headquarters restoration champion, dies at age 80

Rebecca Marshall Farnbach

Special to Valley News

Darell Farnbach, who oversaw the restoration of Vail Ranch Headquarters in Temecula, died Tuesday, March 14, at the age 80. Farnbach was a fourth-generation Californian who had lived in the mountains, in the desert and in the city in this state. He experienced life in California as far south as Temecula to near the northern border in Alturas.

Darell Joe Farnbach’s story begins when the two men who would become his grandfathers began working on the Red Line in Los Angeles in the early 1900s. Albert Cash, who was a New Englander from Nantucket Island and worked as a motorman on the Red Line, began to homestead some land in the San Gabriel Mountains near Wrightwood in 1916 but found it was too much

work for him. He offered to split the land with his coworker Joe Farnbach, a first-generation German born in America who was a conductor on the Red Line if he would help him with the mandatory improvements on the homestead.

The teamwork made the two families grow close. After their children Alberta Cash and Gerald Farnbach met as children, their friendship grew into love. Gerald and Alberta attended Life Bible College in Los Angeles, founded by the famous female evangelist Aimee Semple McPherson. They were joined in marriage in 1929 in a double wedding ceremony performed by McPherson.

Three children were born to Gerald and Alberta, with Darell coming last at White Memorial Hospital in Los Angeles on April 14, 1942. For a while, the family lived in Los

Angeles and then they moved to the family homestead, the rustic Wrightwood Lazy B-J-F Ranch.

After a while, the Farnbachs’ marriage dissolved, and Darell went to live with his father, stepmother and stepsiblings Sheila and David Brooks in Ukiah, where they soon welcomed Darell’s baby brother Bob. Later, Darell lived with his grandmother and grandfather Farnbach in Auburn.

Darell wanted to live with his mother, and after some persuasion, he got his way. He lived with her on the Lockhart Ranch near Barstow, where she was a cook. His mother eventually married a cowboy named Cliff Johnson who gave Darell an extended family with aunts and uncles and cousins.

Temecula resident Darell Farnbach, who died at home Tuesday, March 14 following a long illness, was instrumental in the restoration of Vail Headquarters with his wife Rebecca Marshall Farnbach.

photo see FARNBACH, page A-5

Darell moved with the Johnsons to Valley

Honorees at the San Jacinto Rotary’s annual community recognition dinner are, from left, Dondi Silvas, Valentin Sanchez, Debra Willis, Dennis Postle, Kevin Walker, Aric Galliano and Richard Tovar. Valley News/Diane A. Rhodes photo

News/Rebecca Marshall Farnbach

Diane A. Rhodes Special to Valley News

Laurel Duggan Daily Caller News Foundation

The truck was fully engulfed when crews arrived, but they were able to contain the fire to just the truck.

Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve agencies announce the reopening of the 9,000 acre reserve once the weather permits

Tony Ault Staff Writer

The Santa Rosa Plateau Management Committee, comprising Riverside County Regional Park and Open-Space District, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the Nature Conservancy and Metropolitan Water District voted to completely reopen the reserve in a March 1 meeting.

The reopening, announced to residents on the plateau by the Plateau Management Committee, follows a three and half-year closure due to the devastating September 2019 Tenaja Fire. The official date of the reopening will depend on the weather, and will be posted on the RivCoParks website, according to the PMC.

The Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve is owned by CDFW and RCP. Other properties that are part of the Plateau Lands are owned by RCP. The reserve is jointly managed by the Center for Natural Lands Management. The agencies involved, while different, have compatible missions, all focused on the existence of the reserve since it began 40 years ago above Murrieta.

Before announcing the reopening, the Plateau Management Committee managers and biologists carefully watched the recovery of the destroyed and damaged biological and natural resources. The purpose of the reserve is to provide longterm protection for those valuable biological resources, specifically oak woodlands and grasslands containing vernal pools, and riparian areas containing natural water basins called tenajas. This year’s abundant rains are adding to those tenajas and their unique fairy shrimp population.

The plateau lands also support large areas of rare Engelmann oak woodland, native grassland and vernal pool complexes with reasonably intact hydrology. Combined with large areas of high‐quality chaparral, the reserve provides excellent habitat for a wide range of species, including

mountain lions and mule deer who often visit the plateau.

Riverside County Parks is responsible for management related to public access, including public outreach, trail maintenance and environmental, historical, and cultural interpretive and educational activities on all the reserve and plateau lands. CDFW holds conservation easements on some plateau lands, and The Nature Conservancy owns property within the corridor lands. The purpose of the conservation easements is to help ensure that the property will be retained in perpetuity in open space conditions and to prevent use of the property that will impair or interfere with the conservation values of the reserve. Since 2019, Center for Natural Lands Management is the manager for the reserve, responsible for professional stewardship of the diverse conservation values and working with the agency partners toward protection of the natural resources and providing for public access that is safe, compatible with conservation, and provides an important connection with nature.

The plateau lands offer wildlifecompatible recreational and educational opportunities for the public, opportunities for research and scientific study, as well as the protection of important historical and cultural resources.

Working with the plateau agencies, the Nature Education Association at the Santa Rosa Plateau offers field trips of elementary school students with teachers on the plateau or classroom research projects associated with the natural world in an effort to teach them to become “environmental stewards” in the future to protect wildlife, trees, plants and the lands and the habitats they live in.

The Nature Education Foundation at the Santa Rosa Plateau mission is “educating and empowering youth to become environmental stewards; to appreciate, preserve and protect nature.”

Latest General Plan, Land Use Housing report required by state, heard by Menifee City Council

Tony Ault Staff Writer

The Menifee City Council heard about changes to the general plan land use and housing plan required by the state of California by Saturday, April 1, during the Wednesday, March 15, meeting. The plan shows the number of very low to moderate income homes finished or being built in the city

Since the state reported there was a housing shortage for many families making under $104,000 a year who couldn’t afford to buy a home at today’s prices and the increasing homeless population, the Legislature mandated every city and county had to build a certain number of affordable housing units by 2029.

The mandated affordable housing units brought consternation with many cities across the state as it forced cities to amend General Plan zoning and land uses to make room for the affordable homes, sometimes in higher income neighborhoods, much to the dislike of residents living nearby. Menifee was under the Regional Housing Need Allocation or RHNA and required to build 6,608 affordable homes.

To date, Doug Darnell, principal city planner, making the report on the RHNA portion of the report

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said the city has built 1,193 of the 6,608 units the state requires, leaving 5,416 to be made available by 2029 – homes for those making under $104,000 a year. The average yearly income of all families in Riverside County is estimated to be a little over $87,000.

In Menifee, 1,179 of those were built for the Above Moderate income families while only 10 in the other lower level income families have been built to date,

But, Darnell said the city was “off to a good start” with 905 of those units approved for construction in the next year which is considered the 6th cycle by RHNA.

In addition, he reported the city has completed the housing unit rezone program to accommodate the required RHNA, many low income family and senior homes have been repaired, the multifamily home design standards has been updated and permit ready additional dwelling unit plans have been launched.

Mayor Bill Zimmerman, before Darnell gave his report, made somewhat of a wry comment to the RHNA housing and land use requirements, by saying it is due to the state April 1. During the discussion on the housing report he said the city likes to have its own local control over planning and zoning,

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“but it is frustrating we have to have a certain number of this or that and we lose that local control, and that’s why I made the jest about April 1, because I just think this is the wrong way going about, or accomplishing what the intended goal is, and that’s to have more affordable housing for people.”

Councilmember Lesa Sobek and Mayor Pro Tem Robert Karwin said they were concerned about meeting the RHNA goals by 2029 and the possibility of having fines lodged by the state against the city. The cities and counties were warned they might be fined $10,000 per day if they did not comply with the housing mandates.

The council took the report under advisement with more discussion planned on the report in April.

The council on the request of Sobek heard what advantages the city could see if they joined Sister City International that helps coordinate cities in America with other similar cities worldwide. Temecula adopted a sister city in Japan along with a number of other cities in Southwestern Riverside County who have sister cities in other countries. The membership in the SCI would cost the city $1,030.

Karwin saw having a sister city might not be a good fit with Me-

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nifee at this time, while Sobek saw it would have good educational advantages for the younger people living in the city. Councilmember Dean Deines said he was concerned with the cost of any travel by city council members to the sister city that might be construed as a personal vacation. Councilmember Ricky Estrada saw spending on a sister city shouldn’t be done.

“We should focus on Menifee, not foreign cities,” Estrada said.

Zimmerman said he liked the opportunity but it should be revisited at a future date.

The request was held for a later time.

Philip Southard, public information and legislative relations officer of Menifee, said he was pleased to announce the launch of Menifee TV, a public, educational and governmental access Channel that will deliver local programming, public meetings and service announcements from the city of Menifee both closed captioning in English

and Spanish. He said Menifee TV will also link to Riverside County’s PEG channel.

Menifee TV can be viewed on Spectrum Channel 1301, Frontier Channel 25 and via livestream online at http://www.cityofmenifee.us/ menifeetv. Some Spectrum viewers, however, may have to wait for up to 90 days to see Menifee TV. The city is also in discussions with Mediacom to provide their local subscribers with Menifee TV in the near future.

Earlier Jackie Aponte, active in MilVet, Santa’s Workshop and the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life was named the Outstanding Citizen of the Month by Karwin and the city council.

Joyful Noise Coffee shop, 26924 Cherry Hills Blvd. in Sun City was given Menifee’s Business Spotlight for March along with a city-created commercial.

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

Menifee teen fatally shot during horseplay with firearm

City News Service Special to the Valley NEws

MENIFEE - A 17-year-old boy was fatally shot in Menifee while he and three friends were playing with a handgun they were not aware was loaded, authorities said.

The victim, whose identity was not immediately released, was shot around 8:30 p.m. Sunday, March 19 at a residence in the 27700 block of Watson Road, near Bruner Road, according to the Menifee Police Department.

Capt. Dave Gutierrez said that the boy was at the location with 19-year-old Jesse Garret Duncan of Menifee, as well as an 18-yearold friend and another 17-yearold boy, neither of whom were identified.

“A preliminary investigation revealed the four of them were horseplaying with the firearm,’’ Gutierrez said. “While horseplaying, and believing the firearm was not loaded, (Duncan) pulled the

trigger, striking the victim in the upper torso. Duncan and the other two teenagers immediately called for help.’’

The police captain said that Riverside County Fire Department paramedics reached the location a short time later and attempted resuscitative measures, but the teen died at the scene.

All of the parties were questioned by detectives, culminating in Duncan being arrested and booked into the Byrd Detention Center in Murrieta on suspicion of involuntary manslaughter.

The suspect is being held on $25,000 bail. Background information on him was unavailable.

Gutierrez said that the firearm was seized, but he did not disclose to whom it belonged.

“On behalf of the Menifee Police Department, we would like to send our deepest condolences to the family of the victim during this very difficult time,’’ he said.

Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve will be reopening soon, depending on current weather conditions. Official opening day will be posted on the RivCoParks website. Valley News/Karina Young photo

Electric vehicle comments spark Lake Elsinore City Council meeting

Diane A. Rhodes

Special to Valley News

The regular meeting of the Lake Elsinore City Council and Successor Agency on March 14 was brief and brisk as consent calendar items 1-9 were passed unanimously, as were Successor Agency Consent

Calendar items 10-12.

As always, the meeting ended with city council member comments and Brian Tisdale used the opportunity to share what he learned at the most recent annual meeting of the California Association of Councils of Governments. He sits on its board, representing the Western Riverside County Council of Governments. He said that at the Riverside Convention Center meeting, there was much conversation about electric vehicles and what is going to happen in 2035 when there will be no more gas vehicles allowed in California.

Tisdale encouraged anyone who is concerned about this issue to act now to voice their opposition by writing to their assembly members, senators, governor and anyone else who might listen because he said

the state is simply not ready for this. He said, “The people that are going to be impacted the most by this are the poor and there’s no real resolution for that.”

The ramifications of deciding to go completely green with electric vehicles have not been fully explored. Tisdale went on to say that the state plans to study this year how to close gas stations. “I don’t know what that’s going to do for our tourism industry when folks drive in (from other states),” he said. “I don’t know what it’s going to do for our military and other federal employees because most of the time they’re exempt from state rules so it’s going to be interesting.

I don’t think the people up in Sacramento care or even understand.”

Those interested in tracking all bills that are looked at by local governments can visit www.calcog.org.

Council Member Robert “Bob” Magee agreed with Tisdale, stating, “The infrastructure definitely needs some work. We are not ready for an all-electric fleet of vehicles.”

On the subject of the building of mega warehouses, Magee said he and Mayor Pro Tem Steve Manos

recently met with some representatives from the development community at a meeting sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce to discuss the City’s proposed “Good Neighbor Policy.” He said it “outlines the requirements the City Council would like to see, should developers seek to build mega warehouses near single family dwellings and other sensitive receptors.” Magee said they would like more input from homeowners and reminded everyone that the item, which was continued from a prior city council meeting, has been agendized for March 28 when it will be put up for a vote. “If people come here to speak, we will take their comments,” Magee said.

“We need your comments; whether you’re a builder, a property owner or a renter, we need to hear from you about what you think about mega warehouses in our valley.” Magee then reported that someone had stolen a 10,000-pound equipment trailer that Sports Car Club of America’s San Diego chapter parked at the Storm stadium parking lot in preparation for an upcoming event there on March 24 and 25. “This organization is run by volunteers, people who sacrifice in order to enjoy their hobby,” Magee said. Anyone who sees the trailer is

at the restaurant. John Norman Sr., current SJUSD board president, has a long history with San Jacinto High School and its sports department. He congratulated Galliano for his outstanding season. “To be a coach nowadays is a very difficult thing because you’re working with a very culturally diverse group of young people,” Norman said. “You’ve got to be able to motivate these athletes in order for them to succeed and do a good job. And since Aric has been at San Jacinto, the players know that he truly cares about them, and they play to the highest level that they can because of that.” Galliano said, “Being recognized is both an honor and a privilege, but I am most proud of the kids.”

Valentin Sanchez was recognized for his work at Estudillo Elementary by its Principal Keri Wales. “I’ve always been impressed with his ability to handle multiple tasks, emergency situations that arise, and how well he interacts with his coworkers and our students,” she said. “He’s always a pleasure to work with and he’s always looking for ways to help. He goes above and beyond for all of us.” Sanchez worked throughout the district with Facilities & Operations before going to Estudillo about two years ago. He was also voted by the district as Classified Employee of the Year. Wales said, “He’s a true team player, a great worker and a great leader to our students.”

Lt. Jeremy Harding of the San Jacinto Sheriff’s station said that all sergeants at the station got together to nominate who they felt was most deserving of this recognition and Dept. Postle was chosen. Throughout 2022, he worked the graveyard shift and Harding said, “Because of deputies like him who keep the city safe at night, we can rest easy knowing things are being handled.” Harding noted Postle’s impressive record of responding to 922 calls for service in 2022 and leading the way in DUI arrests at 40-plus. He was Field Training Officer for new deputies “and did a phenomenal job.”

Riverside County Fire Department Division Chief Dan Olson said San Jacinto Battalion Chief Tovar has been with the department since 1998 and has lived in the city for 33 years. Olson said, “He navigated, through leadership and commitment, our firefighters through the COVID time when our staffing levels were critical. His ability to mentor was a huge success. I’m proud to have him as one of my chiefs, one of my colleagues, one of my partners and I consider him a friend.”

Andrew Vallejos, sponsorship coordinator for the Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians, works closely with Dondi Silvas and the entire Soboba Foundation team. He said Silvas has served on the Foundation board for 10 years and has been its president for the past four. Silvas said, “I am truly honored for being selected as Rotary Club’s recipient on behalf of the Soboba Foundation. We are a board of seven that work together, giving back to our community. I am very humbled to be recognized for the

asked to notify the sheriff’s department and share any information with the group at info@sdrscca. com. Magee said the organization plans to borrow equipment from the Los Angeles chapter to enable them to host their event at Diamond Stadium as planned.

Manos echoed Magee’s comments about the subject of mega warehouses. “I think this city has done a fairly good job of communicating to the business community and to the development community when we want a certain standard,” he said.

Mayor Natasha Johnson shared that the City Council as a whole wrote a letter of support for Senate Bill 602, which was introduced by Bob Archuleta. It is an act to amend Section 602 of the Penal Code, relating to trespass, basically allowing non-trespass letters from owners of businesses and homes to have their requests on file for three years rather than just one and to be able to submit them electronically. “This will allow law enforcement to properly do their job and enforce the law,” Johnson said, adding that the bill is set to be heard on April 11. “We asked our colleagues up and down the corridor in Riverside County to band together and out of 16 cities, we got 16 yesses, so

along with four of the five county supervisors, we all sent letters of support. I think together we can do some big things.”

City Manager Jason Simpson reported that Pulte Homes has been asked to post a 35 MPH speed limit sign on Nichols Road, where construction is taking place.

There was one Public Hearing item earlier in the meeting which was a request for approval of a tentative tract map to subdivide a 2.14-acre parcel into one lot for condominium purposes and to subdivide an industrial building currently under construction into six condominium units. A short presentation by Kevin Beery on behalf of the planning division provided some background on the project, noting that on Feb. 21, the Planning Commission held a public hearing and voted 3-0 recommending city council approval. After the presentation, a motion was made by Tisdale to approve which was seconded by Manos. It was passed unanimously, 5-0.

The next regular meeting of the Lake Elsinore City Council and Successor Agency is scheduled for Tuesday, March 28 at 7 p.m. For more information, www.lakeelsinore.org.

years of dedication I have served on the Soboba Foundation and I’m eternally grateful to have had this opportunity.” Vallejos and Silvas were joined at the event by Soboba Foundation Vice President Catherine “Cat” Modesto, Secretary Antonia Briones-Venegas, Treasurer Julie Arrietta-Parcero and Member-at-Large Daniel Valdez, who is also Tribal Council Treasurer.

Record said San Jacinto Unified School District students have long benefitted from the generosity of the Soboba Foundation and pointed out that Silvas was a graduate of San Jacinto High. As was Kevin Walker, who Record introduced next. Aside from being a third generation owner of Arrow Printing, Walker was deeply involved with the Riverside Mountain Rescue Unit which was founded by his father, Walt Walker. Record noted that Kevin is always generous with his time and printing skills while working with many local organizations and businesses. Walker said, “I am reaping the benefits of what my grandfather started, and my dad worked at, and I’m grateful that I can continue their legacy.

San Jacinto is my home and always has been. I’m thankful for all the people who are customers, but it’s the relationships I’ve been able to build with those in this community throughout the years that have been the most fulfilling to me.”

Craig Shultz, immediate past president of SJ Rotary, introduced Willis by saying that once her name was put forth to the voting members, there was no further discussion. “Debra is a special member of our small but mighty club,” he said. “We do a lot of charity work and most of that work is led by Debra.” Shultz said she organizes the club’s many food, clothing

and book drives. A longtime and tireless volunteer, Willis is always willing to step in and step up when and where needed and serves as Community Service Chairperson. She said, “I love working with the community and touching different aspects of it, from veterans to seniors and children.” Willis herself is a Marine Corps veteran and her late husband was a career Marine, serving 21 years. “When I joined Rotary in 2012, I was trying to find my way living in the valley,” Willis said. “My husband had just passed away so I had no family out here. I was working for Hilton and our jobs were outsourced so I was feeling kind of lost. I just want to thank everybody here because they took me in and we became not just fellow Rotarians but we became family. I’m just so humbled to receive this award.”

Willis was joined at the event by her longtime friend and fellow Rotarian Stacy Fifield, who is a member of the Indio chapter. The two met when both were serving their chapters as president in 2016. Willis, the mother of three, was also joined by one of her daughters, who is a teacher at Monte Vista Middle School in San Jacinto.

Rotary International’s mission is to “provide service to others, promote integrity, and advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through our fellowship of business, professional, and community leaders.”

The San Jacinto Rotary Club meets every Wednesday at 12:15 p.m. at Emilio’s Restaurant, 2340 S. San Jacinto Ave. Guests are always welcome. For more information, visit www.SanJacintoRotary. org or www.Rotary.com or call Dr. James Roeder at 951-306-0970.

Lake Elsinore City Council Member Robert “Bob” Magee shares that the public’s help is being sought to recover the Sports Car Club of America equipment trailer that was stolen while it was parked at the Storm stadium parking lot.

Valley News/Courtesy photo

ROTARY from page A-1

Craig Shultz, immediate past president of San Jacinto Rotary, introduces this year’s Citizen of the Year, Debra Willis. Valley News/Diane A. Rhodes photos

Dondi Silvas accepts the San Jacinto Rotary Nonprofit of the Year award on behalf of the Soboba Foundation.

STAT Horse Sanctuary draws hundreds to St. Patrick’s Day Open House in Winchester

Tony Ault Staff Writer

The STAT Horse Sanctuary became a very busy place Saturday, March 18, with more that 150 visitors at the ranch’s St. Patrick’s Day Open House at 31530 Scott Road in Winchester.

Greeting visitors was Pattie Roberts, founder and director of the nonprofit sanctuary housed at a 20-acre leased ranch that currently serves 19 horses and has handled up to 47 in the past. In addition to the horses, there are goats, chickens, a donkey and a very old llama named Jeremiah that wanders aimlessly around the grounds and is loved by all the volunteers.

“What we do basically, is we take old horses that are no longer rideable but are healthy and loveable, and we use them as companion and therapy animals. We work with licensed therapists and call it ‘carrot therapy.’ We (also) invite the special needs community to come

Kelsey, in the Placerville area, where Cliff Johnson worked for the Forest Service. Some of their adventures in Kelsey included building a cabin and an outhouse, interacting with odd neighbors, and attending a two-room school where Darell was valedictorian of a class of three students. Aft er a few years, the family moved to Alturas on Highway 395 at the Oregon border and before Darell’s senior year of high school they moved to Monrovia where Darell graduated in 1960.

Having an income was always important to Darell. Trying to earn some spending money, Darell bought 100 baby chicks when he was 12 years old. He raised them and sold them dressed, and afterward he decided he did not ever want to raise chickens again.

Darell always loved cars. He started driving when he was about six years old. He drove a Model A to the end of their long country lane where he and his brother and sister caught the school bus. Darell would stand on the seat to steer while his brother worked the pedals. Also, as a child, he would drive across the desert while his stepfather and uncle lay on the running boards shooting rabbits.

Darell’s first job was washing cars for an auto sales agency. He remembers the thrill of driving the cars that he washed. In Monrovia, he worked in a convalescent hospital, a pharmacy and a gas station. He considered going into mortuary science but decided instead to attend beauty college.

He excelled as a hairstylist and earned credentials to teach at the beauty school. It was there that he met his first wife, Ramona Rubio. They married in 1965. Darell was drafted into the Army in 1966 and was a battery clerk stationed in Schweinfurt, Germany, where their daughter Darya was born. After returning to California, Darell purchased a salon in Arcadia and his son Todd was born in 1971.

In 1981, the family moved to Temecula where Darell and his first wife formed the Farnbach Aldstadt Design Company with another couple from the Arcadia area. They did commercial and residential interior design in the fast-growing area, while Darell continued traveling to Arcadia every other week to work in his salon.Darell also collected and restored antiques and had an antique store inside the Temecula Mercantile building.

When Darell’s and Ramona’s marriage ended, an Arcadia hair client introduced Darell to Rebecca Marshall. They married seven months later and Darell persuaded her to move to Temecula. Darell helped her to raise her teenage children Andrew and Abigail Marshall.

Anyone who knew Darell knows he loved cars. Until recently he had a Model A pickup, a Model T roadster, a 1938 Cadillac LaSalle and 1970 and 1972 Ford Mustang convertibles. Before he moved to Temecula, he owned two of his favorite cars, a Packard convertible and a Mercedes convertible. His salon in Temecula

“The Pink Caddy” featured the front clip of a 1969 Fleetwood Cadillac as the reception desk. He owned about 70 cars during his lifetime.

Through the years, Darell became a close friend to others who enjoyed classic cars, most notably the Drifters Car Club members.

A high point in Darell’s life was going with some of the Drifters to drive exotic cars onto the auction block for Mecum Auto Auctions.

In 2019, Darell’s red 1972 Mustang Convertible was featured in Mus-

out, senior citizens and moms with teenagers,” Roberts said. “It’s an amazing bonding experience. We are totally staffed by volunteers. We are totally supported by donations.”

Volunteers at the ranch range from teens to seniors. One volunteer, Kim Rhodes, is a well-known Disney Channel actor, playing Carey Martin on the Disney Channel sitcoms The Suite Life of Zack & Cody and The Suite Life on Deck. She is constantly tending the horses and other animals at the sanctuary. “It’s heaven,” she said. “I can’t articulate a reason that would properly illustrate what this place does for my soul. It is everything I have ever wanted. Knowing that I’m being of service, making a difference, working with animals... Working in a place that we need and giving back to the community I’ve fallen in love with.”

Rhodes is one of the many volunteers working at the nonprofit sanctuary. Feeding the horses some treats was senior volunteer and contributor Teresa Matthews who the horses

tang Monthly magazine.

When the Farnbachs became empty nesters, they began to advocate for the Vail Headquarters historic site that was threatened with demolition. Darell was a plaintiff in the suit that settled favorably. Darell spent many hours each week overseeing the restoration, as well as setting up a small museum called the Little Temecula History Center with others in the Vail Ranch Restoration Association.

Darell’s faith in God was a guiding force in his life. When Darell was

seem to love. Some of the teenage volunteers who sought solace with a visit to the sanctuary in the past, are now helping whenever they can.

The St. Patrick’s Day Open House at the sanctuary was the first after the COVID-19 pandemic. In prior years it was held at local restaurants according to Roberts, who was almost overwhelmed by the day’s turnout. The event included gift baskets from many businesses that were offered in a silent auction, a bounce house for children, a DJ with music, booths hosted by various organizations like Foresters Group, Lemon Quest products, Denise Gregory clothes and others. But the most popular attractions were the horses and animals living at the sanctuary, especially with the younger teen guests. Food offerings included Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers and special corned beef hash slider dishes. Roberts said donations will help keep the horses healthy and away from euthanasia for many years.

about six years old, he responded to an altar call at a Nazarene Church he attended with his Grandma Farnbach. His heart and behavior were changed after he asked Jesus to come into his life and he never forgot what a difference knowing Christ made in him. Darell specified that old hymns including “The Old Rugged Cross” be sung at his memorial gathering. The Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce named the Farnbachs the 2019 Citizen of the Year, and in 2021, their names were placed on the Wall of Honor

Donations will also help buy the medicines and feed for the animals, fly controls, dewormers, shelters and corrals and tractor work. Corporate sponsors are welcome as

in the Temecula City Hall.

Darell died at home Tuesday, March 14, in Temecula after a long illness. His brother Garry Farnbach preceded him in death. Darell is survived by his wife Rebecca, sister Donna Reese of Bishop, brother Robert Farnbach of Ukiah and stepsiblings Sheila Brooks of Ukiah and David Brooks of Sacramento. He leaves children Todd of Medford, Oregon, Darya of Fairhaven, Vermont, and their spouses, stepson Andrew Marshall of Temecula, stepdaughter Abigail Juarez and her

well as sponsors for veterinary services and ranch insurance. To help with the STAT Sanctuary, visit STATHorseSanctuary.org or call 951-733-3000.

husband of Wildomar, grandchildren Terran and Taj Farnbach and Natalia Kartaszynska, five stepgrandchildren and many nephews and nieces. Darell loved Temecula and was proud to have been part of the restoration of Vail Headquarters, but he said his best legacy was his children, which included his stepchildren and grandchildren. He was loved by many in the community and will be long remembered, especially by the third-grade students who took bumpy rides in Darell’s Model A at Vail Headquarters during field trips.

Peripheral Neuropathy Breakthrough!

“My feet feel like they’re on re.”

“Each step feels like I’m walking through wet paint.”

“I live in constant fear that I’ll fall.”

“I can’t sleep, my hands and feet tingle all night.”

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

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

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

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

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

ey’ve been everywhere else.

ey’ve been told there’s no hope.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Menifee Mayor Bill Zimmerman, right, visit with STAT Horse Sanctuary Founder Pattie Roberts and volunteer Kim Rhodes feeding a rescue horse.

Valley News/Tony Ault photo

FARNBACH from page A-1

March 24 – 30, 2023

Menifee’s first Wildlife Appreciation Day delights children and parents

Tony Ault Staff Writer

Dozens of excited and curious children touched live aquatic animals, scaly reptiles and desert tortoises, watched hunting hawks and owls and played games at Menifee’s first Wildlife Day in Central Park, Saturday, March 18.

The inaugural event, jointly sponsored by Menifee’s Park Rangers and the Sierra Club, was to familiarize and protect the many wild creatures in their community and was termed a success by city leaders.

Menifee City Council Members

Ricky Estrada and Dean Deines and Mayor Bill Zimmerman were on hand with two Menifee Park Rangers to welcome children and their parents to the special event. Sierra Club representatives offered free raffles for the children along with games and fun challenges for the young participants at the park stage.

“This is a great event because we’re giving the city of Menifee an opportunity to enrich themselves with wildlife. We are so excited that this is the first year we’re doing this, and we hope to bring everyone a new positive experience and education on the wildlife in Menifee,” Estrada said.

Menifee Park Ranger Brandon Samson said he and partner Amanda Ingraham “want people to come out and learn about nature conservation and appreciate wildlife in our area.” He said the Wildlife Appreciation Day is a way

for people to come out to see what the city of Menifee has to offer. He said the event is “a kickoff for the spring” events planned in the city.

The event included a number of information and display booths from TEAM Temecula, Elsinore, Anza and Murrieta with the San Jacinto Basin Conservation District, San Diego Humane Society Project Wildlife Rehab Hospital, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Discover the Desert Coachella Valley Preserve, California Traveling Tidepools, the Sierra Club, LLLReptile and Supply Company Inc., California Hawkers Club, Menifee Park Rangers, Riverside University Health System and Bureau of Land Management. Food trucks from Missy’s Hotdogs, 4N1 Cafe Coffee and Quiroz Tacos were also on hand.

Zimmerman said, “We have so many kids that are here today meeting our park rangers and state game wardens, where they’re learning about that job and hopefully will help us recruit people interested in a great career.”

Pam Nelson, Chair of the Sierra Club’s Santa Margarita Group said, “Our focus is getting native plants and rewilding places and managing the native plant sphere. We want to get more native plants in and work on more wildlife crossings on I-15, particularly in Temecula and in the San Jacinto Basin and Wildlife area.”

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

Curious children carefully touch living small sea creatures in the simulated tide pool at the Traveling Tidepools display during Menifee’s Wildlife Appreciation Day in Central Park. Valley News/Tony Ault photos

A child carefully reaches out to touch this live desert lizard on display at Menifee’s Wildlife Appreciation Day. Other harmless desert creatures there for children to touch were on display by the LLLReptile and Supply Company Inc.

Members of the California Hawking Club with their different birds of prey, from hawks to owls, explain the birds’ instincts to hunt other small game in the wild to the crowd at the Menifee’s Wildlife Appreciation Day.

The Sierra Club booth, cosponsors of Menifee’s Wildlife Appreciation Day, pictures the many endangered animal species, wildlife crossings and other creatures found in the wilds surrounding Menifee.

Menifee Council Member Ricky Estrada with Council Member Dean Deines and Menifee Park Ranger Brandon Samson greet children and their parents at the first Wildlife Appreciation Day in Central Park.

Smiling Coraline Robles, 4, with her mother Katherine Martinez, shows the Curious George raffle basket she won in the Sierra Club free opportunity drawing at the Menifee Wildlife Appreciation Day event.

It’s a game of “hot potato” with rubber balls for the youngsters at Menifee’s Wildlife Appreciation Day. Every child who participated, even after getting caught with a hot potato, won a prize.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

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

CHILDREN’S EVENTS

March 24 and 25 – 7:30 p.m.

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

March 24 – In-N-Out Cover to Cover reading program at the Murrieta Public Library, still open for children from 4 to 12 with a free In-N-Out hamburger for finishing the book readings, 8 Town Square, Murrieta.. Call 951-364-BOOK for details.

March 25 and 26 – 2 p.m. The Spongebob Musical at the Old Town Temecula Theater, 42051 Main St., Temecula. Tickets at the box office or online at tickets.temecula theater.org. For information call 866-653-8696.

April 1 – 10 a.m-noon. STEM

Adventures for children at the Kid-

die Academy of Murrieta, 41755 Juniper St. You and your children can participate in activities that show how we make learning about Science, Technology, Engineering and Math fun, relevant. 951-6000545.

April 29 – 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Youth Fair at Menifee’s Lazy Creek Park Recreation Center, 26480 Lazy Creek Road, Menifee.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

March 24 – 6-9 p.m. Murrieta

Alternative Recreation Program for adults 18+ with intellectual and developmental disabilities holding a “Fun Science Party Murrieta Community Center, 41810 Juniper Street, Murrieta. $2 per participant. Contact 951-304-7275.

March 25 – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Multicultural event at Menifee’s Central Park. 30268 Civic Center Dr., Menifee. An event that promotes cultural awareness and engagement! This family-friendly event will exhibit cultural diversity and traditional heritage.

March 30 – 3:30-6:30 p.m. Art Show at the Hemet Public Library.

Valley-Wide Recreation offers spring fun run, Easter egg hunts

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

April 4 - 6 – The Wall That Heals, a replica of the Vietnam Memorial Wall, is coming to the Miller Jones Menifee Memorial Park and Mortuary in partnership with the city of Menifee and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1956 and will be open to the public at 26770 Murrieta Road, Menifee. For information, please contact Miller Jones Mortuary at 951-6720777 or visit www.cityofmenifee. us/wallthatheals. Vietnam veterans to be honored. April 4 – 9 a.m. to noon. Menifee Spring Fest and Remington Park Grand Opening at 37101 Junipero Road, Menifee. Includes an Egg-stravagant morning for children of all ages with plastic egg surprises and a visit by the Spring Bunny. Ribbon cutting at 10 a.m.

ONGOING – The city of Menifee offers in-city or out-of-city special event vendor applications online or at Menifee City Hall to apply for signature and other special events. Contact Menifee City Hall, 29844 Haun Road, 951-6726777, or online at businesslicensing@cityofmenifee.us.

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

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

The 34th annual Bunny Hop Family Fun Run will take place Saturday, March 25, at Diamond Valley Lake Community Park.

HEMET – Valley-Wide Recreation and Park District is celebrating spring with two Easter-related activities.

The 34th annual Bunny Hop Family Fun Run will be Saturday, March 25, and Easter egg hunts are scheduled for three Valley-Wide facilities Saturday, April 8.

The Fun Run will be at Diamond Valley Lake Community Park, 1801 Angler Ave., in Hemet. It begins with the Tot Run for ages 3-5 at 9 a.m., followed by a 1K run for ages 6-12 at 9:15 a.m., the 5K walk at 9:30 a.m. and 5K run at 10 a.m. The 5Ks have categories from ages 8 and younger to 70+.

The cost is $5 for tots and $10 for others until Thursday, March

23, and $10 and $15 on race day.

The first 50 people to sign up will get a race T-shirt.

The Easter egg hunts Saturday, April 8, are free and open to children 12 and younger, who must bring their own basket.

The hunts will be held at 9 a.m. at Rancho Bella Vista Park, 31737, Browning Street, in Murrieta; at 10 a.m. at Marion V. Ashley Community Center, 25625 Briggs Road, in Menifee and at 10:30 a.m. at Diamond Valley Lake Community Park, 1806 Angler Ave, in Hemet. For information on either activity, call 951-654-1505 or visit http://gorecreation.org.

Submitted by Valley-Wide Recreation and Park District.

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

ONGOING – 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Every Sunday, Murrieta Village Walk Farmers Market is at Village Walk Place in Murrieta. The

Sunday morning farmers market at Village Walk Plaza is a place to buy fruits and veggies, gourmet food and crafts. Come to the center in the northwest corner of Kalmia/ Cal Oaks at the Interstate 215 exit in Murrieta.

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

WORKSHOPS, MEETINGS, NOTICES

March 24 - May 5 – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dorland Mountain Arts Associated Artists Exhibit of Fine Art at the Dorland Community Arts Center, 36701 Hwy 79 S. Temecula Parkway, Temecula.

March 25 – 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Wildomar Litter Pick-up begins at the Wildomar Trail, location TBA. For more information, please contact Bridgette Moore at 951-440-6796 or #WildomarBeautification.

March 28 – 9-11 a.m. Free monthly food for any age through the Murrieta USDA/TEFAP SMP Program held at the Murrieta Senior Center, 5 Town Square, Murrieta. Food boxes provide a selection of protein, grains, fruit, vegetables, milk and much more.

March 29 – 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Free VCC Dental Screenings at the Wildomar Library parking lot, 34303 Mission Trail, Wildomar.

March 30 – 2-3 p.m. Health and Safety Resource Forum with 3rd Dist. Supervisor Chuck Washington and Menifee Mayor Bill Zimmerman at Kay Ceniceros Senior Center, 29995 Evans Road, Menifee.

April 6 – 5:30-7 p.m. Visit the new Murrieta Wildomar Chamber of Commerce office and learn about its visions at the Murrieta Innovation Center, 26442 Beckman Ct., Murrieta. Free to members, $35 for nonmembers.

April 8 – 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Hemet Woman’s Club is sponsoring the Car Seat Safety Clinic with the California Highway Patrol. Get car seats inspected and learn how to properly install them at this free

event, taking place at the Hemet Valley Mall parking lot. 2204 W. Florida Ave, next to Polly’s Pies.

April 22 -23 – Menifee Better Together (volunteer registration begins on Monday,April 17) to help with the cleanup in the city that will be organized at the Church of Jesus Christ of LatterDay Saints Church, 29725 Bradley Road in Menifee. Free bulky item drop-off program. see www. cityofmenifee.us/959/MenifeeBetter-Together.

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

ONGOING – Multiple Sclerosis Support Group Meeting meets the third Monday of each month at the Mary Phillips Senior Center, 41845 6th Street, in Temecula from 10 a.m. to noon. For more information, email gaugustin206@ gmail.com or join the meeting.

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

ONGOING – 10 to 11:30 a.m. Michelle’s Place Cancer Resource Center and The Elizabeth Hospice host a virtual support meeting for caregivers every second and fourth week of the month via Zoom. Get helpful tips and learn from others who are also dealing with similar challenges. For more information and to register, contact The Elizabeth Hospice Grief Support Services at 833-349-2054.

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

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

Regional nonprofit “Rolling for a Cause,” announces sponsorship opportunities for April event at Wilson Creek Winery

TEMECULA – Rolling for a Cause, a Temecula-based nonprofit organization, announced the results of its most recent “Bunco in the Vines” fundraiser. The event, held Sunday, Sept. 25, 2022, at Wilson Creek Winery in Temecula, attracted more than 130 attendees and generated a net revenue.

Easter egg hunts are scheduled for Saturday, April 8, at parks in Murrieta, Menifee and Hemet. Valley News/Courtesy photos

Menifee Foodie Fridays is Back!

Join

Friendly to families!

Made Local and the City of Menifee are co-hosting this event.

available for sale Monday, April

3. The ticket price includes a buffet lunch and glass of wine, as well as participation in three rounds with six games in each round of bunco, a popular dice game. Raffle tickets for gift baskets will also be available for purchase, and attendees will have the opportunity to bid on silent auction items.

“I continue to be amazed and blessed by the support we receive at our events, which typically sell out within hours of tickets going on sale,” Dorothy “Dot” Hawthornesaid, founder and president of Rolling for a Cause, said. “Everyone is always excited to hear about how our proceeds are directly helping those in our immediate community.”

Proceeds from the event benefited more than 20 people in need from the local community and were used for such initiatives as paying rent and utilities, providing shelter in hotels, purchasing food and receiving Christmas gifts.

“What a lovely way to spend a Sunday afternoon,” Linda Holibonich, attendee at the September 2022 event, said. “My friends and I love this fundraiser and the impact made by its proceeds within our community. It’s a well-organized event that’s really a blast, and the food and wine is always delicious. There are also always many beautiful silent auction items.”

The organization’s next event will be held Sunday, April 30, at Wilson Creek Winery in Temecula. Fifty-five dollar tickets will be

“I still remember being invited to one of the first Rolling for a Cause events,” attendee Kym Russell said. “I was impressed at the organization of the group, with a friendly presence. They are known in the community for their work. I am touched with the stories of the people who are blessed by them, and look forward to the latest stories of care and love toward their recipients. I am always excited to attend their upcoming events as I know I’ll meet new people, have so much fun and participate in an excellent cause that serves our community well.”

Alison Bailey, a known singer from the local Temecula area and an upcoming contestant on the 2023 season of “The Voice,” which is available for viewing on NBC and The Peacock streaming network, will also perform at the event.

RFAC is actively seeking event sponsors to offset overhead and other hard costs, at $250, $500 and $1,000 levels, as well as at the champion event bar or $1,500 level. Current sponsors include: Southland Paving, the $3,000 champion

event luncheon sponsor; Refocused Business Consulting, the $1,000 diamond sponsor; Anita’s Custom Tailoring and Law Tigers, the $500 ruby sponsors, and Quality Chevrolet and Temecula Stampede, the $250 pearl sponsors. Ardent Realty, Badmom Creations and Wilson Creek Winery and Vineyards are also in-kind sponsors of the April event.

“We could not operate without the teamwork and generosity of our volunteers and donors,” Hawthorne said. “We are each a part of the puzzle, fitting perfectly together to provide those in need with a hand up.”

More information on sponsorship opportunities can be found by visiting the organization’s website at http://www.rollingforacause. com, or by contacting Hawthorne at 951-302-3088.

Established in 2020, Rolling for a Cause identifies and supports those in the Temecula Valley and North San Diego County regions who are struggling with immediate need. Without other avenues of assistance, RFAC beneficiaries receive micro-funding to help them as they otherwise face homelessness, terminal illness, domestic harm and a variety of other critical challenges. For additional information, visit http://www.rollingforacause.com, email rollingforacauseca@gmail. com or call 951-302-3088.

Submitted by Rolling for a Cause.

Temecula Sunrise Rotary sponsors annual vineyard 5K/10K run

The Temecula Sunrise Rotary Club announces its 35th annual Run through the Vineyard on Saturday, April 29 at the Maurice Car’rie Vineyard and Winery, which has hosted the run for many years. The first Vineyard Run ever in Southern California was held in 1987. The challenging 2K/5K/10K is run through the rows of the winery’s beautiful vineyards six miles east of Temecula beginning at 34225 Rancho California Road. The event draws hundreds of runners for all classes from all over Southern California, from San Diego to Los Angeles and beyond. Because of the way the course is set up, it has gained a “must” reputation among many of the runners who love the wine country layout.

This is Temecula Valley’s Premier Running Event. Run or walk this challenging course through Maurice Car’rie Vineyards and enjoy Temecula’s scenic wine country. It is a destination race one will never forget! Registration is limited to the first 800 entrants. The event will take place rain or shine.

To sign up for the race, go online to https://raceroster.com/71745 or log on to www.temeculasunriserotary.com and click on the link Run through the Vineyard. Team discounts are available. Online registration closes on Wednesday, April 26 at 11:59 p.m. or whenever the race is sold out, whichever comes first. Race Day registration is from 6 to 7 a.m. on April 29.

Runners may also go to pick up bibs and/or do pre-race day registration a day ahead at The Running Center in Temecula from 4 to 6 pm on Friday, April 28.

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

This is a nonprofit fundraiser and

has two major sponsors, Pechanga and Maurice Car’rie Winery, plus many more supporters whose names will be on the T-shirt. Proceeds from the race are used by the Temecula Sunrise Rotary Club to benefit its many community service projects, vocational and academic scholarships, third grade literacy program at Vail and Temecula elementary schools, youth leadership camps, Chaparral High School Interact Service Club, and many other youth and community programs. The club also provides Safety Town for children ages 5 to 8, to be held in June in Temecula.

“To date, more than $400,000 has been contributed back into our community from the proceeds of this event,” Temecula Sunrise Rotary President Roger Weber said.

Temecula Sunrise Rotary Club holds a breakfast meeting at 7:30 am each Tuesday at Journey’s End at Pechanga, the golf course restaurant. The club welcomes prospective members to attend the meetings, which always feature interesting programs. The club

The 35th annual Run through the Vineyard will take place April 29 at Maurice Car’rie Vineyard and Winery. Valley News/Courtesy photo is a member of Rotary International, which is the oldest service organization in the world, having been formed in Chicago in 1905.

or the race, contact Race Director Frank Appice at 949-632-5667 or frankappice@earthlink.net, or CoChair Myra Allen at 949-433-8612 or myallen5330@gmail.com

Rotarians serve their communities and the world.

For information about Rotary

Murrieta partners with Murrieta Market Nights to expand downtown street market

MURRIETA -- The City of Murrieta and local nonprofit Murrieta Market Nights announced their partnership to host twice-monthly markets in Downtown Murrieta.

Established in October 2020, Murrieta Market Nights gained notoriety as a community attraction. A mixture of artisan vendors, food vendors, artists, activities, and entertainment provide a wellbalanced and enjoyable familyfriendly atmosphere on the first and third Thursday of each month in Downtown Murrieta.

“I have been a passionate advocate for this partnership between the city and Murrieta Market Nights. These events create a space for residents and visitors to come and engage with vendors and local

businesses. Market Nights create a true heart for our city and are a perfect way to support our special and connected community here in Murrieta,” Murrieta Mayor Lisa DeForest said.

Organized by the Murrieta Market Nights nonprofit in partnership with the Downtown Murrieta Merchants and Property Owners Association and MAC Arts Council, the city of Murrieta has supported the events with road closure assistance since summer 2021, and they have expanded their partnership with Murrieta Market Nights in an official capacity. Both organizations believe in celebrating Murrieta’s small town feel and unique ambiance with Market Nights. In fall 2022, the

Murrieta City Council approved an agreement between the city and Murrieta Market Nights organization to host the events. Since the agreement was finalized, the city purchased multiple barriers to safely close roadways to vehicle traffic so vendors can utilize downtown street space and visitors can enjoy the artisans, entertainment, and activities.

Murrieta Market Nights are held on the first and third Thursday of each month, between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m., in the heart of Downtown Murrieta. Each event brings hundreds of shoppers to downtown, with street closures for vendors and entertainment occurring along Washington Avenue and Juniper Street.

Visitors enjoy a diverse range of vendors, music, food and activities. Artisans, crafters, local businesses, musicians and artists bring creative energy to the night. An important goal of Murrieta Market Nights is supporting small and local businesses, as well as participating artists, according to organizers. For more information about Murrieta Market Nights, visit http://www.DowntownMurrieta395.com and follow @DowntownMurrieta395 on social media. The city of Murrieta will also share updates about the Murrieta Market Nights on the city’s social media, website and monthly eNewsletter.

Submitted by city of Murrieta.

High school sports fans –send us your photos, news & updates to sports@reedermedia.com. You may be featured in print and online.

Pala Casino Spa Resort presents Third Eye Blind on April 15

Movie Review: ‘Scream VI’

Bob Garver Special to the Valley News

PALA – Pala Casino Spa Resort will present best-selling American rock band Third Eye Blind Saturday, April 15, performing live indoors at the Events Center. The show will start at 8 p.m. General admission tickets are $59, and reserved tickets are $79. This show is just one of a lineup of headliner and tribute concerts that will be held at the Events Center and Starlight Theater.

Since 1997, San Francisco’s Third Eye Blind, led by Stephan Jenkins, has recorded five bestselling albums and assembled one career retrospective. Some of their most well-known hits include “Semi-Charmed Life,” “Jumper” and “How’s It Going To Be,” with

all three debuting in the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100.

Most recently, Third Eye Blind released a new album, “Unplugged,” in 2022. The band’s 2021 album, “Our Bande Apart,” was recorded alongside Bethany Cosentino of Best Coast and Ryan Olson of Poliça. The band has continued to gain artistic clarification over the years – and, alongside it, a fanbase that is larger, younger and more dedicated than ever.

Third Eye Blind is supporting SeaTrees on its tour, an organization that helps restore a portion of the Palos Verdes Kelp Forest. Submitted by Pala Casino Spa Resort.

Grandfathers for Golf to host memorial tournament

I’m willing to argue that “Scream” is the greatest slasher movie franchise of all time. Not only is the 1996 original a metahorror classic, but before “Scream VI,” three of the five movies in the series were halfway decent. Can any other slasher property with at least five installments boast that kind of ratio of good to bad? “A Nightmare on Elm Street” got too silly with jokes that didn’t land; “Friday the 13th” was overrated in the first place and fans got sick of “Halloween” constantly reinventing itself. “Scream” has thus far needed only one clear reboot, and last year’s fifth installment was a rousing success. A mere 14 months later, we’ve got a sixth chapter, and it… keeps the property out of trouble. After a prologue where the audience follows a film professor, played by Samara Weaving, and a student, played by Tony Revolori, and their encounters with the latest incarnation of the terrifyingly masked killer known as Ghostface, it’s time to catch up with some familiar faces. Sam Carpenter, played by Melissa Barrera, has moved to New York City to be with her sister Tara, played by Jenna Ortega. Yes, I can finally reveal a twist I was keeping under wraps in my review of the last movie: after an impressive performance by Ortega in the opening scene, Tara survived the Ghostface attack and, in fact the whole movie, a rarity for this series. Will Weaving or Revolori be so lucky? Also returning are twins Chad, played by Mason Gooding, and Mindy, played by Jasmin Savoy Brown, from the fifth movie; Kirby, played Hayden Panettiere, from the fourth and reporter Gale Weathers, played by Courtney Cox, from every single one of these.

New characters include Tara’s roommate Quinn, played by Liana Liberato; Quinn’s cop father Wayne, played by Dermot Mulroney; Sam’s boyfriend Danny, played by Josh Segarra; Mindy’s girlfriend Anika, played by Devyn Nakoda, and Chad’s roommate Ethan, played by Jack Champion. I wasn’t really digging the new

characters, but I said that about Chad and Mindy in the last movie, and they’ve since grown on me. Sam and Tara remain compelling as the new faces of the franchise. It was the right decision for the series to shift to them as leads when it did.

I was looking forward to the heavily-promoted change of setting from small-town California to New York City, where I live. Sadly, the city’s atmosphere only comes into play in two scenes, one in a bodega and one on a subway. I didn’t like the bodega sequence because Ghostface uses a gun, which goes against the rules of the slasher genre. And I didn’t like the subway sequence because it invokes a station and line that I use at least five days a week, but it doesn’t look familiar, so it just draws attention to the fact that the movie wasn’t filmed in New York. It was actually Montreal. But the characters mostly have all the space they need to hide, stalk and chase, especially in the case of an Easter egg-filled abandoned movie

theater that this Ghostface uses as a home base.

“Scream VI” is just OK. It isn’t groundbreaking like the original or reinvigorating like last year’s reboot. My jury is still out on whether it has the charm of the second movie. But it isn’t making me wish the franchise would just die like the third or fourth. It was probably a good idea to rush this movie out, so fans wouldn’t have time to get their hopes up for a better movie and then be disappointed. I’m sure there will be a seventh “Scream,” and I will be eagerly anticipating another installment in the greatest slasher movie franchise of all time. But hopefully that one will be a better reminder of why this franchise is so great.

Grade: B-

“Scream VI” is rated R for strong bloody violence and language throughout, and brief drug use. Its running time is 122 minutes. Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@ nyu.edu.

Wine Country Classic Golf

SAN JACINTO – Grandfathers

for Golf, the nonprofit charity dedicated to teaching at-risk children how to play golf for free, announced its major fundraiser for 2023. The Grandfathers for Golf Memorial Tourney at Soboba Springs Resort Golf Course will take place Friday, April 28. The four-man scramble format is open to all golfers of any skill level.

Cost is $150 per player or $140 for signups made before April 10, and is tax deductible. Entry fee includes 18 holes of golf, gift bag, prizes, food and a raffle. The tourney will begin at 11 a.m. with a shotgun start. To sign up, call Tony Viola, president of Grandfathers for Golf, at 909-7544148. Field is limited to 144 players, and the tourney sells out fast, so get your foursomes together and make sure to sign up early.

The memorial tournament, which was formerly called the Marty Finn Memorial, is the only fundraiser the group holds each year. Grandfathers for Golf is a volunteer organization, with no salaries for organizers and no fees charged to students in the program. Grandfathers for Golf has been operating for years in the Hemet/San Jacinto area, teaching hundreds of children from all walks of life not only golf, but life skills such as sportsmanship, etiquette, camaraderie and honor. Grandfathers for Golf gives every child a golf bag, clubs, balls, a uniform and lessons for free.

Fundraising for the past few years has been limited by COVID-19, and the nonprofit asked the community to help out if they can.

Submitted by Grandfathers for Golf.

TEMECULA – The Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce announce the annual Wine Country Classic, named Temecula’s premier golf tournament, will be held Friday, May 5, at Temecula Creek Inn Golf Course. Golfers will experience 18 holes of the championship golf course surrounded by over 300 acres of rustic beauty, dramatic elevation changes and sweeping mountain views.

The Wine Country Classic Golf Tournament is a unique event that combines networking opportunities with a competitive spirit, allowing participants to meet new prospects while having fun in a relaxed setting. The chamber is extending its special thanks to The Law Offices of Rosenstein & Associates for their sponsorship of the tournament –entering their sixth consecutive

year as the title sponsor.

Reservations to play can be made by visiting http://www. temecula.org. Individual, as well as foursome reservations, are available. Individual golfers will be assigned to a team of four. Every two golfers will have a dedicated golf cart reserved for their gameplay. Each player will receive a golfer goodie bag full of promotional items donated by local businesses and are invited to the after-tournament, Cinco de Mayo-inspired awards reception provided by Temecula Creek Inn Golf Course.

Reservations made by Friday, March 17, received early bird pricing. Regular pricing started Saturday, March 18, with single reservations at $225 and foursomes at $850. Temecula Creek Inn Golf Course is located at 44501 Rain-

bow Canyon Road in Temecula. For more information, contact Amber Poncy at Amber@temecula.org or call 951-676-5090.

The Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce is a nonprofit organization based in Temecula. The mission of the Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce is to promote positive economic growth while protecting the environment for all businesses and by doing so, support the programs which preserve and improve the quality of life for the entire community. To learn more about the Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce, visit http://temecula.org. For more information, contact the Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce at 951-676-5090 or email info@ temecula.org Submitted by Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce.

Third Eye Blind will be performing at Pala Casino Spa Resort in April.

Valley News/Courtesy photo

Valley News/Courtesy photo

Krieger & Stewart given RCWD well design contract

Joe Naiman

Writer

Krieger & Stewart Inc., will design two of Rancho California Water District’s Upper Valle de Los Caballos recharge and recovery facility wells.

The RCWD board approved the contract with Krieger & Stewart, which is headquartered in Riverside, on a 7-0 vote March 9. The contract will be for $838,400, and Krieger & Stewart will provide design, bid phase and construction support services for the drilling, equipping and construction of Well No. 174 and Well No. 175.

The Upper Valle de Los Caballos recharge and recovery facility is located in the 42100 block of Winchester Road. Four new production wells along with monitoring wells

are planned as part of the district’s UVDC Optimization Program.

The four new wells are expected to increase recovery capacity at the UVDC by at least 5,000 acre-feet per year.

A 7-0 RCWD board vote Jan.

12 awarded Southwest Pump & Drilling a $1,361,399 construction contract to drill and construct Well No. 172 and Monitoring Well No.

512. Well No. 173 is in the design phase. On Nov. 8 RCWD staff issued a request for proposals for final design, bid phase and construction support services for Well No. 174 and Well No. 175. The deadline for the design proposals was Jan. 12, and two proposals were received. The California Government Code requires professional services agreements to be awarded based on demon-

‘Splash Into Spring’ event welcomes community for a day of family-oriented activities

LAKE ELSINORE – Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District’s annual open house event returns Saturday, March 25, from 9 a.m. to noon, at EVMWD headquarters, 31315 Chaney Street, in Lake Elsinore. “Splash Into Spring” is a free family event where attendees will learn about the process EVMWD uses to treat more than 5.5 million gallons of sewer water per day, the construction and maintenance of more than 700 miles of pipeline throughout the EVMWD service area and saving money and water with a more water efficient home and landscape.

Attendees will get a peek into the daily work at the district through a variety of demonstrations and interactive displays. Activities include fixing a leaky water main, performing a valve exercise, self-guided water-wise garden tours and more.

Visitors can also get a tour of EVMWD’s sewage treatment plant

to see how wastewater becomes recycled water. Local landscape and irrigation experts as well as University of California Cooperative Extension Riverside County Master Gardeners will be available to answer questions about outdoor irrigation, California friendly plants, gardening and water-saving appliances and devices.

A special addition this year includes the Wyland Aquatic Lab on Wheels, which showcases water, watersheds and the impact of the most precious resource in people’s day-to-day lives.

Children can enjoy a fully immersed bubble experience and a child’s construction experience with children-sized backhoes and the chance to climb in big equipment.

For more information, visit http://www.evmwd.com/splash.

Submitted by Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District.

strated competence and the professional qualifications necessary for the satisfactory performance of the services required rather than on the lowest price, but Krieger & Stewart had both the highest-ranked proposal and the lowest bid. Hazen & Sawyer, which is headquartered in New York but has a regional headquarters in Los Angeles and offices in Irvine and San Diego, submitted a bid of $913,934.

The scope of work includes preparation of contract documents including plans and specifications for all civil site work design for the graded well pads and access roads, preparation of contract documents for well drilling and all related hydrogeologic services, preparation of contract documents for well equipping (including pumping equipment, mechanical,

conveyance piping, and electrical, instrumentation and controls), hydrogeologic field inspection and construction support services during the drilling of both wells, and full engineering support services during the bidding and construction phases. The decision of the staff review panel to recommend Krieger & Stewart was based on the identification of specific project challenges and discussion of how they will be addressed, projectspecific items to be incorporated in the special provisions such as environmental mitigation, monitoring, and reporting requirements, a nd the company’s successful completion of previous similar RCWD projects. The Krieger & Stewart proposal also included a project schedule. Well No. 175 will be designed first

Loving your pets

Dr. Dawn Love, Veterinarian Special

to Valley News

Loving the pets you bring into your household may start with something other than puppy love. It may start with something more critical: finances.

Many would-be pet owners neglect to consider the true costs of pet ownership. Pet ownership comes with responsibility. Make plans to include your pet in your budget. The first expense is nutrition. Good pet food is not cheap. Next are vaccinations and protections your pet(s) need.

There also are preventive veterinary services that may be suggested for certain breeds. For example, you may want to be sure an American Kennel Club certified Doberman is screened for certain cancers the breed is known to have. Labradors are known to have hip problems. An AKC breeder can document that the parents of the pup you are considering has been screened for this malady.

Essential preventative services in our area include protection from flea infestation and heartworm. While the warmer months produce more fleas,

anytime the temperature reaches 50 degrees fleas can hatch. We have seen that. The products from a veterinarian which require a prescription have produced significantly better results than over-the-counter items. It is much better to prevent fleas than to try to get rid of them.

To gather reliable information to help make decisions prior to bringing a pet into your home, there are two websites to look at: AKC. com and the American Veterinary Medicine Association’s website. For general questions you may call the office,760-728-2244, and our staff will do their best to help you.

A decision that will surface in the first several months is whether to neuter or spay. This is especially true for cat owners as cats are almost always fertile and can become pregnant when they are 65 days old.

Two unaltered female and male cats can produce or be responsible for 250,000 animals in a seven-year period.

Purchasing your pet(s) from an AKC breeder or SPCA shelter is possibly your best decision. You might also ask a veterinarian. What you want is a breeder who is doing their

with final design for the graded pad and access anticipated to be complete by April, final design for the well drilling expected by July, and final design for well equipping planned for July 2024. Construction for the graded pad and access is expected to occur between August and October, the well drilling construction schedule is from November to May 2024, and the well equipping construction has a timeline of October 2024 to May 2025. Well drilling design for Well No. 174 will take place from March 2024 to June 2024 with construction planned between November 2024 and May 2025. The design for the equipping of Well No. 174 has a timeline of June 2025 and July 2025 with construction expected from October 2025 to May 2026.

job with love and professionalism. Others are known as “puppy mills’” or “backyard breeders.” Beware and proceed with caution when breeders will not meet with you on-site and do not belong to professional associations. Also, proceed with caution with pets being sold on Craig’s List or any online-only pet sales group.

Shelters can be a great place to find a pet that benefits the owner and pet alike. Shelter workers are committed to the pet’s welfare and a “forever home” so they can tell you about the pet’s disposition, likes, etc. They also have veterinarians who have done basic blood workups and vaccinations that are needed by the age and breed of the animal. If you fall in love with a shelter animal, the staff can alert you to any ongoing care such as antibiotics or other medical care to keep the pet in optimal health. SPCA has a good website with excellent information.

Dr. Dawn Love is a doctor of veterinary medicine and proprietor of North Orange Veterinary Clinic in Fallbrook. For more information or to book an appointment, call 760728-2244 or visit northorangevet. com

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CHIMNEY SWEEPS, INC., one of the leading chimney repair and maintenance companies, is here to help protect you and your home from losses due to structural damage and chimney fires.

Family owned and operated and having been in business for over 30 years, Chimney Sweeps Inc. is a fully licensed and insured chimney contracting company (License # 976438) and they are certified with the National Chimney Sweep Guild and have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.

For a limited time, readers of this paper will receive a special discount on a full chimney cleaning and safety inspection package with special attention given to chimney water intrusion points in preparation for the wet & rainy season.

“The three menaces to any chimney, fireplace, or stove.”

Every year there are over twenty thousand chimney / fireplace related house fires in the US alone. Losses to homes as a result of chimney fires, leaks, and wind damage exceeds one hundred million dollars annually in the US.

Innovation Month celebrates entrepreneurship in Riverside County

RIVERSIDE COUNTY – The Riverside County Board of Supervisors adopted a proclamation Tuesday, March 14, declaring April as “Innovation Month.” The Riverside County Office of Economic Development announced the return of Riverside County’s Innovation Month, which has taken place every April, since its launch in 2017 and excluding 2020.

Riverside County Innovation Month is a celebration of innovation, entrepreneurship and the ecosystem that supports small business. Innovation Month is designed to foster the entrepreneurial spirit by connecting innovators and entrepreneurs to workshops, panels, business leaders, investors and more. During April,

stakeholders throughout the county will host many events including regional fast pitch competitions that will showcase local business ideas. Riverside County innovators and entrepreneurs who are interested in showcasing their own business or product concept are urged to register for a regional fast pitch event. Contestants who participate in a regional fast pitch will showcase their ideas in front of a live audience including judges that are business investors, local elected leaders and successful business owners. Winners of the regional events will advance to the fast pitch finale to be held in downtown Riverside at the University of California Riverside Arts Block Thursday, April 27, where the top

three contestants will take home cash prizes.

The Riverside County Office of Economic Development welcomed a new website, http://www.RivCoInnovation.org, that will highlight innovation happening all year long in the county, from biotech to cleantech, as well as the county’s Innovation Incubators and much more. The website features a webpage dedicated to Riverside County Innovation Month, which can be visited for more detailed information on Innovation Month and how to participate at these events. For more information, contact bizinfo@rivco.org or 951-955-0493.

Submitted by the Riverside County Office of Economic Development.

Inland Empire Education and Workforce Summit wraps with record attendance and strong collaboration among business, education and community leaders

RIVERSIDE – Think

Together,California’s leading nonprofit provider of afterschool, expanded learning and school improvement programs, in partnership with the Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce, hosted the 2023 Inland Empire Education and Workforce Summit at Loft 84 in downtown Riverside Wednesday, March 15, bringing together nearly 200 leaders in the private, public and nonprofit sectors. This year’s summit convened a diverse set of stakeholders to discuss ways to improve education and workforce development in the Inland Empire, with a focus on increasing access to quality education, preparing students for the job market and creating equitable career pathways. “ We have a responsibility to provide our youth with the re -

sources needed to succeed in t oday’s economic landscape,” Randy Barth, founder and CEO of Think Together, said. “The turnout and engagement from fellow educators, business executives and community leaders is a sure sign that together, we can give students the tools, and businesses the talent needed for success.”

The event opened with Riverside Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson emphasizing the need for access to meaningful career pathways, college readiness and job opportunities that allow youth to achieve their full potential regardless of zip code or circumstance. The summit transitioned to Think Together alum Diego Martinez who shared his first-hand experience in Think Together’s Hack Club and his post-graduation work with Think Together to help expand Hack Clubs to additional program sites.

“Afterschool programs like the ones I was able to participate in inspired me to dream big,” Martinez said. “Today, I’m proud to share those same dreams with other students as a Hack Club leader and be a positive change to my school and community.” Bank of America’s Inland Empire Market Executive Cathy Paredes led the panel to showcase regional perspectives on how today’s current economic environment impacts workforce development and what educators are doing to prepare students for today’s job market. Panelists included Ted Alejandre, county superintendent of San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools; Randy Barth, founder and CEO of Think Together; Dr. Angelo Farooq, chair at California Workforce Development Board; Dr. Edwin Gomez, Riverside County superintendent of

schools at Riverside County Office of Education and Charles Henkels, executive director of LAUNCH Apprenticeship Network.

“The Inland Empire is poised to experience tremendous economic growth, and businesses have a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between classroom education and workforce needs,” Paredes said. “This is why Bank of America makes it our top priority to invest into workforce education programs and summits like this one that help create pathways to careers in the region.”

The 2023 Inland Empire Education and Workforce Summit was proudly sponsored by Bank of America with Think Together and the Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce partnering to produce the annual summit.

“The Inland Empire Education and Workforce Summit has become

a vital platform for building connections and driving change in our community,” Edward Ornelas, Jr., president and CEO of the Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce, said. “The energy, enthusiasm, and commitment of everyone involved was truly inspiring.”

The summit closed with a networking reception to provide a forum for collaboration among peers, exchange of ideas, and exploration of potential partnerships to support education and workforce development in the region.

For more information about the Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce and its programs, visit http://www.iechamber.org.

Those looking to get involved with Think Together can visit http://www.thinktogether.org/getinvolved.

Submitted by Think Together.

Temecula’s TVE2 announces new business incubator tenants

TEMECULA – The Temecula Valley Entrepreneur’s Exchange recently welcomed two new business incubator tenants – IatrixAir Inc. and Terra Network Solutions. IatrixAir Inc. is a health tech startup using machine learning to stop airborne pathogens and biothreats. They design and sell their products and services through independent representatives; contractors; small-, mid- and large-sized companies and government agencies on a subscription or product basis. Their technology of fast detec-

tion, protection and information is based on aerodynamics of air; air chemistry; photonics; mechanical and electrical engineering and internet-connected device design and connectivity to cloud databases.

Terra Network Solutions is a veteran-owned, information technology managed service provider that launched in May 2022. They provide IT consulting to smalland-medium-sized businesses and work together to streamline workflows, boost productivity

and maximize product and service delivery for its customers. Their goal is to understand and simplify their customer needs so they can maintain focus on their businesses.

TNS also provides IT procurement services that provide the hardware and software requirements that a company would need to keep up with today’s IT advancements.

“I met the owners of IatrixAir Inc. and Terra Network Solutions in November 2022. As we toured the center and briefly discussed the programs and services at TVE2,

their eyes lit up,” Mary Cervantes, manager of TVE2, said. “They expressed that this ecosystem and support network is exactly what they had been looking for. Over the last few months, I have been connecting these teams with the resources they need and working with them through the tenant onboarding process, and they have been a pleasure to work with. I look forward to watching their businesses launch-and-grow and ensuring that they have the tools and support to bring their visions

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to life and ultimately more jobs to the region.”

The Temecula Valley Entrepreneur’s Exchange is a business incubator and regional resource center that fosters business growth and economic vitality for entrepreneurs and innovative early-stage companies, by providing access to technology and high-quality resources and leveraging a strong network of community partners. For more information, visit http:// TVE2.org or call 951-506-5180. Submitted by city of Temecula.

Riverside County Board of Supervisors adopts a proclamation declaring April as Innovation Month. Valley News/Courtesy photo

Local schools and districts seeking to fillmore than 650 job openings at countywide education recruitment event

RIVERSIDE – From Murrieta to Blythe, Lake Elsinore to Palm Springs and nearly every district in-between, recruiters from Riverside County’s public school system will be seeking to fill more than 650 positions at the 2023 Countywide Education Recruitment Fair set for Saturday, March 25, at the Riverside County Office of Education Conference Center, 4280 Brockton Ave., in Riverside. The event is free and will be held from 9 a.m. to noon.

“Pursuing a career in the public education system is more than just a job with great benefits, competitive pay, and a strong retirement system,” Edwin Gomez, Ed.D., superintendent of schools for Riverside County, said. “We want to connect professionals who have a passion for serving students with opportunities to shape the future success of the Inland Empire – one student at a time.”

School and district representatives from across Riverside

County will be ready to discuss employment opportunities in certificated positions and classified positions.

The Riverside County Office of Education, Rivers Springs Charter School and 17 Riverside County districts are scheduled to participate in the event and be available to answer questions about employment opportunities. Those districts included Alvord USD, Banning USD, Beaumont USD, Coachella Valley USD, Desert Sands USD,

Hemet USD, Lake Elsinore USD, Menifee USD, Moreno Valley USD, Murrieta Valley USD, Palm Springs USD, Palo Verde USD, River Springs Charter School, Riverside COE, Riverside USD, San Jacinto USD and Val Verde USD. Internship eligibility will be considered.

For those interested in pursuing a career as a teacher, local colleges/universities and RCOE’s School of Education will be available to provide information about

credentialing programs.

Participating universities and partners include Altura Credit Union, California State Teachers Retirement Systems, Riverside City College, California State University, San Bernardino, Alliant International University and SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union. More information is available at http://www.rcoe.us/EducationJobFair

Submitted by Riverside County.

EMWD amends design contract for Purified Water Replenishment Advanced Water Purification Facility

Joe Naiman

Writer

The design phase of the Purified Water Replenishment Advanced Water Purification Facility the Eastern Municipal Water District is planning resulted in an expanded scope, and the EMWD board approved amendments Wednesday, March 1, to the design contracts for the project.

The board’s 5-0 vote amended the scope of work while adding $280,174 to the design contract with Brown and Caldwell. The geotechnical studies contract with Converse Consultants was amended to add $35,013 to the amount and to stipulate the extra tasks. Cozad & Fox Inc., which is headquartered in Hemet, is responsible for survey work and that payment will be $16,734.

The Eastern Municipal Water District’s Groundwater Reliability Plus Program is intended to improve the quality and yield of water from the San Jacinto groundwater basin and includes the Purified Water Replenishment Project. The

Purified Water Replenishment Project will include recharge ponds, an advanced recycled water treatment facility, a blending station and conveyance infrastructure. Phase 1 of that project will recharge up to 4,000 acre-feet per year of a blend of advanced treated water and recycled water into recharge ponds along the San Jacinto River corridor. The Purified Water Replenishment Advanced Water Purification Facility will be located adjacent to the San Jacinto Valley Regional Water Reclamation Facility.

In November 2021, the EMWD board awarded the final design contract for the Purified Water Replenishment Advanced Water Treatment Facility Project to Brown and Caldwell, which is headquartered in Irvine. The original amount was $3,178,723, including subconsultants for brine management e ngineering, membrane design, acoustical engineering services, corrosion engineering, fire protection, geotechnical studies, plumbing and ventilation, landscaping and surveying.

During the development of the

design, EMWD management identified the need to re-evaluate the building and site layout to address necessary updates to building size and function including public access and tours as well as an increase in operation and maintenance staff.

The building layout was expanded to include office space, a shower and locker rooms, conference rooms, sufficient mechanical maintenance room and architectural features, which match the San Jacinto Valley Regional Water Reclamation Facility Control Building.

A decision was also made to separate the Advanced Water Purification Facility final design phase from the Purified Water Replenishment conveyance pipeline design. As the detailed design of the Advanced Water Purification Facility advanced, EMWD staff also determined a requirement to expand the scope for reverse osmosis permeate piping through the San Jacinto Valley Regional Water Reclamation Facility site due to the extensive and overlapping coordination with facility operations and existing underground utilities. EMWD staff

also expressed a preference for onsite generation due to the increasing cost of bulk chemicals and supply chain delivery issues.

Brown and Caldwell’s expanded scope includes evaluation and additional plans and profiles to route the reverse osmosis permeate pipeline through the existing San Jacinto Valley Regional Water Reclamation Facility to a location suitable for transition to the future conveyance pipeline project design. Brown and Caldwell will also add the facilities to accommodate on-site generation of sodium hypochlorite, which will require additional vendor coordination and equipment selection, resizing of the chemical feeding and storage system and modifications to associated equipment layout. EMWD staff and Brown and Caldwell negotiated the $280,174 fee amount for the additional design tasks.

In April 2022, Converse Consultants, which is based in Redlands, received a $94,020 contract to perform a fault investigation. All features encountered were confirmed to be secondary seismic features

rather than primary faulting, so no additional design mitigation measures were necessary. The September 2022 storm, however, flooded the excavated trench, which increased time and costs for Converse Consultants. A fee of $35,014 was negotiated for additional costs to complete the investigation and to backfill the trench.

The addition of the permeate piping evaluation and design requires additional topographic and field surveys. Cozad & Fox has performed multiple surveys to support work at the San Jacinto Valley Regional Water Reclamation Facility site. A fee of $16,734 with Cozad & Fox was negotiated to perform the additional survey.

The final design previously had a May 2023 completion estimate, and the changes create a new expected completion date of December 2023. The project is expected to be advertised for construction in February 2024.

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

Ardurra to design Redhawk Parkway recycled water pipeline replacement

Joe Naiman

Writer

Ardurra Group Inc., will design the replacement of the Rancho California Water District’s Redhawk Parkway recycled water pipeline.

The RCWD board voted 7-0 March 9 to award Ardurra, which is headquartered in Tampa and has an office in Temecula, a $249,841 professional services contract for the design and bid phase engineering services. The board also approved total new appropriations of $375,000 which will cover RCWD staff labor costs, permitting, and bid advertisement expenses along with a $40,000 contingency amount.

The project will replace approximately 3,600 linear feet of 16-inch diameter polyvinyl chloride recycled water pipeline

which is located within Redhawk Parkway. The section of pipe has experienced three pipe failures since 2017, including two within the last 20 months. RCWD staff issued a request for proposals for final design and bid phase support services on Nov. 22 and received three responses by the Jan. 12 deadline.

The Ardurra bid amount was $249,841. Krieger & Stewart had the lowest bid at $228,000, but the California Government Code requires professional services agreements to be awarded based on demonstrated competence and the professional qualifications necessary for the satisfactory performance of the services required rather than on the lowest price.

RCWD staff deemed that Ardurra provided the best and most complete proposal for the work because Ardurra’s proposal demonstrated a

strong understanding of the project including identifying potential issues with proposed solutions along with a detailed scope of services, Ardurra’s project manager has successfully worked with the district on five relevant projects, the Ardurra proposal highlighted the importance of selecting a pipeline alignment which minimizes traffic-

related issues during construction and provided an appropriate level of effort to prepare detailed traffic control plans, and Ardurra’s project team includes an in-house traffic engineer with 36 years of experience who will be responsible for developing a traffic control strategy which minimizes impacts on the community.

options

We can talk through your financial goals and find the option that works best for you.

The current estimated cost for the actual construction is $2.7 million. California Environmental Quality Act analysis and documentation will be prepared during the final design, although the replacement of an existing facility with no expanded use will likely result in a Notice of Exemption.

John Wayne’s former 2,000-acre ranch listed by Coldwell Banker Realty

Rancho Pavoreal, the former 2,000-acre ranch of John Wayne, has been listed for $12,000,000 by Tatiana Novick, an agent affiliated with the Rancho Santa Fe office of Coldwell Banker Realty. Located at 43000 Stanley Road in Hemet, the approximately 3,000-squarefoot residence has three bedrooms and three bathrooms.

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get your hands on the former ranch of the iconic western film star John Wayne,” Novick said. “As an action hero to many, John Wayne’s presence still lives on in Rancho Pavoreal’s very masculine and western aesthetic.”

Located in Sage, a small agricultural community just 20 minutes from Temecula Wine Country, this incredible ranch sits about halfway between San Diego to the south and Palm Springs to the northeast. The ranch is entirely fenced and cross-fenced with plenty of room for horses and cattle. In addition to a stucco ranch house and old barn, there are three wells, horse trails and panoramic views of the surrounding valley and Palomar Mountain. An outdoor enthusiast’s dream, the surrounding area contains acres of wildlife habitat, desert plateaus, river gorges, high alpine county, blue skies and starry nights.

“Upon John Wayne’s passing, this property was transformed into a dude ranch, where visitors saw it as a ‘home away from home’

Valley News/Courtesy photos

SACRAMENTO – Sen. Kelly Seyarto, R-Murrieta, introduced Senate Constitutional Amendment 4 to fight for taxpayers’ rights to leave homes and businesses to their children after their passing.

After Proposition 19’s narrow passage in 2020, voters discovered a lesser-known implication of the law, which capped the value of family homes that can be inherited without additional taxation at one million dollars and held a contingency that a family member must reside in the home for the remainder of their life, severely limiting property, land and business inheritances in California.

SCA 4 would reinstate Propositions 58 and 193, which protected families and their rights to keep their childhood homes when parents or grandparents pass away and undo the damage done by Proposition 19.

“We should be making it easier for Californians to inherit property without asking them to pay through the nose in additional taxes,” Seyarto said. “Tax reassessments on inherited property often lead to the family being forced to sell their homes or close down their business, which is an unacceptable consequence for hard-working families who are trying to set themselves and future generations up for success. Economic mobility cannot be achieved unless we let people own what they create through decades of hard work.”

“For more than 30 years, hardworking California families had a constitutional protection that helped them climb the economic ladder. And now, it’s gone,” Jon Coupal, president of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association, said.

“Proposition 19 took away the right to transfer property between parents and children without a massive tax increase. We must fix this before more families are forced to sell the properties their parents worked so hard to acquire.”

If SCA 4 passes both the Senate and Assembly, it will go to the governor for signature and put to the voters for ratification.

Sen. Kelly Seyarto, R-Murrieta, represents California’s 32nd Senate District, which includes the cities and communities of Aguanga, Anz a, Borrego Springs, Canyon Lake, Cathedral City, Chino Hills, Corona, Desert Edge, Desert Hot Springs, El Sobrante, French Valley, Good Hope, Hemet, Homeland, Idyllwild, Julian, La Cresta, Lake Elsinore, Lake Mathews, Lakeland Village, Menifee, Mead Valley, Meadowbrook, Murrieta, Norco, Palm Springs, Sage, Sky Valley, Riverside, Temecula, Temescal Valley, Thousand Palms, Valle Vista, Whitewater, Wildomar, Winchester, Woodcrest and Yorba Linda.

Submitted by the office of Sen. Kelly Seyarto.

Pumas remain atop Southwestern League baseball standings with off ensive surge

more runs in the seventh as backto-back singles from Caleb Udell and Burrow along with a bunt single from Osterloh loaded the bases for Rasmussen who came through with a two RBI single.

With a five-run lead, Brady Pavlovsky entered in relief of Doughty and immediately found trouble, allowing a leadoff double, hitting a batter, and walking another to give the Wolfpack a bases loaded situation with two outs. Pavlovsky walked in a run and gave way to Cayden Goebel who came in and got a groundout from senior first baseman Riley Ricken.

“Innings like the seventh are why you don’t get satisfied offensively and keep scoring,” Dress added. “I would’ve let Brady try to finish the inning except for the fact that we’re playing a makeup doubleheader tomorrow and he’s one of the scheduled starters. Cayden came in, knew he had a cushion, and trusted the defense to get that last out. We’re happy with where we’re at in the league so far, but we also know there’s a long way to go.”

Doughty has recorded 49 strikeouts while allowing just 13 hits and a half dozen walks in five appearances so far this year. The Pumas, who beat Vista Murrieta

last week for the first time since 2017, are the only remaining team that have not won a Southwestern League title since the league originated in 2004.

WP: Doughty, Braylon 6 IP, 4 H, 9 K’s, 1 BB, 1 run scored

LP: Wauschek, Braden 5 IP, 4 H, 6 K’s, 2 BB, 3 runs scored

Leading Hitters: Fien (GO) 3-3 with a walk; Doughty (Chap) 2-4 with an RBI

In other SWL baseball news this past Friday, Vista Murrieta (5-4 overall) moved to 2-1 in league play with their 6-0 shutout win over Murrieta Valley (5-5, 2-3), and Temecula Valley (5-1-1 overall) also moved to 2-1 with their 3-1 win over Murrieta Mesa (2-5, 0-4).

While the rain took over during the past two weeks on the fields for local baseball and softball teams, there were a load of preseason tournament makeup games that took place around the area Saturday, through the early part of the week. Scores from those games can be found online. Southwestern League play resumed Wednesday, March 22. Article contributions made by Valley News Sports Editor JP Raineri. Derryl Trujillo can be reached by email at socaltrekkie@gmail. com

Derryl Trujillo

Sports Writer

TEMECULA – Baseball is a game of adjustments…to pitchers, umpires, and weather conditions among other things. Great Oak starting pitcher Braden Wauschek had Chaparral (7-1, 3-0) stymied in their first trip through the batting order on Friday afternoon, recording five strikeouts without allowing a hit.

But things quickly unraveled for Great Oak as the Pumas scored three runs in the fourth and took a 3-0 lead. It was a lead Chaparral would not relinquish, although the Wolfpack loaded the bases in the bottom of the seventh inning, as they prevailed 6-2 to stay undefeated in Southwestern

League play.

“We tried our best to get our field playable for this game but there wasn’t enough turface (quick dry infield conditioner) in the city to get it into a playable condition,”

Pumas head coach Chris Dress said laughingly. “We haven’t been on our field since Monday due to the rain, but our guys have done an excellent job of just rolling with things as they come.”

In the top of the fourth inning, Zack Burrow led the Pumas off with a single and Darin Osterloh drew a walk. Burrow scored on an RBI fielder’s choice from Cooper Rasmussen to take a 1-0 lead.

Pumas starting pitcher Braylon Doughty then hit an RBI triple, scoring Osterloh. A bloop single, which just got into right field,

scored Doughty as Wauschek limited the damage to a trio of runs.

“It’s definitely been weird to get the ball this many times this early in the season but I’m just out here having fun with my opportunities,” Doughty said. “Once we made the adjustments, we did a nice job of timing him (Wauschek) and putting the ball into play.”

Great Oak (5-2, 2-2) struck for a run in the bottom of the fourth inning as Dylan Fien led off with a single and came around to score on a wild pitch to make it 3-1 Chaparral after four innings. Doughty led off in the sixth with a double off the left center field wall and came around to score as Mikey Ong reached on an error with two outs, making it 4-1 Chaparral after six innings. Chaparral added two

First female college baseball

player makes her debut

Olivia Pichardo becomes first woman to play in Division 1 baseball game

JP Raineri

Sports Editor

With Temecula’s Kelsie Whitmore helping pave the way for women playing at higher levels of baseball and becoming the first female to play in the Atlantic League, which is associated with Major League Baseball, Brown University’s Olivia Pichardo is following quickly behind.

With a pinch-hit appearance late in Brown’s contest against Bryant Friday, March 17, Pichardo made history as the first woman to appear in a Division I baseball game.

Pichardo, a freshman from Queens, New York, was added to the team roster in the fall as a walk-on after impressing in a tryout. Listed on the team roster as a utility player, she wasted no time at the plate, swinging at the first pitch and putting the ball in play toward first base. The Bears would go on to lose the game, 10-1.

Like Whitmore, Pichardo has played for the USA Baseball Women’s National Team, a feat she accomplished just before joining the Brown roster. According to Baseball for All,

Pichardo is one of eight women on a collegiate baseball roster in 2023, but she’s the only one at the DI level.

After the game, Pichardo said she wants more girls to know it is possible for them to play baseball.

“I just hope that young girls can watch and see that this is possible; that it’s not just a dream but it is a tangible goal they can have,” she said, according to the team website. “I really hope that there is a whole new wave and generation of girls that come around and try to make it as far as I have, and further in baseball.”

“Kelsie Whitmore has been an inspiration for me for a long time,” Pichardo said. “She was the first female baseball player I had ever heard of and ever since, I have been following her journey.”

The Brown University freshman had the chance to play on the same team as Whitmore this past season on the USA Baseball Women’s National Team.

After the game, Brown coach Grant Achilles told ESPN that he hoped Pichardo’s debut with the team shows people that the only factor that is important to play NCAA Division I baseball is whether a player is talented

Valley News/Brown University courtesy photo enough to get the opportunity.

“They should be judged solely on their baseball abilities,” he said. “Liv is an example of that.”

Achilles added that while Pichardo has put “all the work and effort” into making the team, the support she has received from

her teammates has also been invaluable.

“Her teammates are a special group to be able to both realize how historic this moment is but also to hold her accountable as a teammate to our standard as a baseball player,” he said. “I think that’s been the most beautiful

part of it for me is that she is a teammate.”

Fans can follow the action online at www.brownbears.com/ sports/baseball.

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

Pictured here earlier this season, Braylon Doughty picked up his third straight Southwestern League win after pitching the Pumas to victory over Great Oak Friday, March 17. Valley News/Courtesy photos

Cooper Rasmussen, pictured here earlier this season, had 3 RBIs for the Pumas against Great Oak Friday, March 17.

Olivia Pichardo became the first woman to play in a Division I baseball game when she made a pinch-hit appearance late in Brown University’s contest against Bryant Friday, March 17.

Southwestern League announces First and Second team soccer selections

JP Raineri

Sports Editor

John Harney, the athletic director from Temecula Valley High School, met with the Southwestern League girls’ soccer coaches recently to go over the selections for the First and Second All-League teams. The first-place team always hosts the meeting with their school’s athletic director, which went the way of the Lady Golden Bears, for the sixth straight year. Harney also helped facilitate the selections for the boys’ teams.

Based on where the SWL team placed also determines how many selections that team will get. For the girls’ teams, Temecula Valley showcased both the MVP in the Offense category with sophomore Cassidy Drago, as well as the Defensive MVP for the second straight year, which was senior Zoe Willis.

With their first-place finish, Temecula Valley was granted eight selections overall: four First Team, four Second Team; Murrieta Valley received six selections: three First Team and three Second Team; Vista Murrieta High School got four selections: two First Team and two Second Team; Great Oak received three selections: One First Team and one Second Team; Murrieta Mesa got two selections for First Team, and one for Second Team; Chaparral received one Second Team nominee.

2023 All Southwestern League

Girls Soccer Team

Offensive MVP: Cassidy Drago (10), Temecula Valley

Defensive MVP: Zoe Willis (12), Temecula Valley

FIRST TEAM

Annika Jost, Temecula Valley (11) – Midfielder; Elizabeth Ludwig, Temecula Valley (12) Goalkeeper; Juliet Thrapp,

Temecula Valley (10) – Defender; Sloane Phillips, Temecula Valley (9) – Midfielder; Presley Henry, Murrieta Valley (9) – Forward; Taylor Kessler, Murrieta Valley (11) – Center/Mid; Madison Ford, Murrieta Valley (11) – Defender; Anai Olmedo, Vista Murrieta (12) – Goalkeeper; Kylie Walker, Vista Murrieta (12) – Midfielder; KK Mikayla Abrenica, Great Oak (12) – Midfielder; Grace Hamm, Murrieta Mesa (10) – Midfielder; Sam Uribe, Murrieta Mesa (12) –Defender.

SECOND TEAM Camryn Vehlow, Temecula Valley (12) – Midfielder; Chaleigh Depner, Temecula Valley (12) – Defender; Lorena Jimenez, Temecula Valley (12) – Forward; Carly Radke, Temecula Valley (10) – Forward; Payton Henry, Murrieta Valley (9) – Center; Malia Bell, Murrieta Valley (10) – Defender; Paisley Mclaughlin, Murrieta Valley (11) – Defender; Destiny Cabrera, Vista Murrieta (10) – Forward; Brayden Ellis, Vista Murrieta (12) – Defender; Savannah Spielman, Great Oak (11) – Defender; Rili Tull, Murrieta Mesa (11) – Forward; Skylen Goebel, Chaparral (10) – Center Back.

For the boys’ teams, Vista Murrieta showcased the Offensive MVP in Cole Walker, and Great Oak had the Defensive MVP in Mikie Castanon. With their first-place finish, Vista Murrieta was also granted eight selections overall (4 First Team, 4 Second Team). Vista Murrieta received nine selections (5 First Team, 4 Second Team), Great Oak High School took four selections (3 First Team, 3 Second Team), Chaparral had four selections (2 First Team, 2 Second Team), Murrieta Mesa and Temecula Valley received two selections each (1 First Team,

1 Second Team), and Murrieta Valley received one Second Team nominee.

Offensive MVP: Cole Walker (12), Vista Murrieta

Defensive MVP: Mikie Castanon (11), Great Oak

FIRST TEAM

Isaac Owusu Banahene, Vista Murrieta (12) – Midfield; John Schwartz, Vista Murrieta (12) – Defender; Jonathon Torres, Vista Murrieta (11) – Midfield; Eliot Moulton Rhodes, Vista Murrieta (10) – Defender; Caden McNamara, Great Oak (12) –

Midfield; Jack Vazquez, Great Oak (11) – Forward/ Mid; Hector Villegas-Valenzuela Great Oak (11) Midfield; Breckon Robirds, Chaparral (12) Goalkeeper; Naseem Abedsalam, Chaparral (11) Mid/Forward; Makhel Vasquez, Murrieta Mesa (10) Midfield; Kyle Riley, Temecula Valley (12) – Midfield; Mason Page, Vista Murrieta (10) – Defender.

SECOND TEAM

Pablo Diaz Romero, Vista Murrieta (12) – Forward; Roman Rodriguez, Vista Murrieta (10) –Forward; Logan MacLeod, Vista

Murrieta (11) – Goalkeeper; Aiden Karrer, Vista Murrieta (11) –Midfield; James (JT) Trevino, Great Oak, (11) Midfield; Brett Koser, Great Oak (11) Mid/ Forward; Tyler Paglialonga, Great Oak (12) – Defender; Andrew Ramirez, Chaparral (12) Midfield; Angel Parra, Chaparral (12) –Midfield; Gavin Lane, Murrieta Mesa (11) – Center-back; Anthony Robert-Curatolo, Temecula Valley (12) – Midfield; Angel Razo, Murrieta Valley (11) – Defender. JP Raineri can be reached by email at sports@reedermedia.com

Canyon Lake’s Hambright wins rain shortened ASHER Tour stop in Fallbrook

Derryl Trujillo

Sports Writer

FALLBROOK - Southern California weather has been anything but typical these past several weeks with many storms hitting the area. In fact, three straight ASHER Tour events have been reduced in length by a round due to weather with the cancellation of the final round of the Fallbrook Open.

In an eight-hour span from 10 p.m. on Tuesday, March 14 to 6 a.m. on Wednesday, March 15, Fallbrook received 1.76 inches of rain which rendered the host Golf Club of California at Fallbrook layout unplayable.

As a result, ASHER Tour officials reduced this week’s event to the 36 holes already completed through Tuesday.

Canyon Lake’s Chad Hambright, the overnight leader by two shots over Franklin Huang after rounds of 65-66=131 (-9), was declared the winner and took home $7,500 for his week’s work.

Over the course of 36 holes, Hambright made just one bogey on the 6,713-yard par 70 layout

Valley

and ten birdies. It’s his third career victory on the tour.

Hambright is a 2013 graduate of Temescal Canyon who played collegiately at RCC, winning Orange Empire Conference Player of the Year honors in 2015.

Braeden Koran, playing out of Bear Creek Golf Club in Murrieta, finished T17 after rounds of 7465=139 (-1) and earned $530 for the week.

Christian Rajcic, also a Bear Creek member, finished T24 after rounds of 68-72=140 (E) and just

missed out on the money by a shot. Nick Berry (Bear Creek member) and Aiden Canada (Vista Murrieta graduate) both missed the cut. The tour has two more local stops on its schedule starting with the Bear Creek Shootout March 27 and 28 (36 holes on day 1) along with another stop at Soboba Springs Golf Course on April 6 and 7.

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

Zoe Willis, a senior out of Temecula Valley, was named the Defensive MVP of the Southwestern League for girls’ soccer.

Temecula Valley sophomore Cassidy Drago was named the Offensive MVP of the Southwestern League for girls’ soccer.

Junior Mikie Castanon from Great Oak was named the Defensive MVP of the Southwestern League for boys’ soccer.

Valley News/File photo

Fallbrook Open champion Chad Hambright of Canyon Lake prepares to play a shot in ASHER Tour competition.

Valley News/Courtesy Nick Bland (ASHER Tour official)

Fallbrook Classic champion Chad Hambright stares down an iron shot during the tournament. Valley News/Courtesy Nick Bland (ASHER Tour official)

News/Courtesy Nick Bland (ASHER Tour official)

Valley News/Rob Davis Photography

Valley News/File photo

McCalmont helps boost Linfield Christian over West Valley with a four RBI day

JP Raineri

Sports Editor

Linfield Christian (5-2, 0-1) defeated Hemet’s West Valley by a score of 17-2 this past Saturday thanks in part to Ryan McCalmont, who drove in four runners on the day. The Lions secured the victory thanks to nine runs in the second inning. Elijah Butler, Jake Valencia, McCalmont, Matthew Rezkalah and Cody Emig all drove in runs in the frame.

Chris Allen led things off on the hill for Linfield Christian, lasting one inning and allowing zero hits and zero runs while walking one. Linfield used the game as more of a bullpen game as Hunter Wilson, Chris Allen, Butler, Valencia and McCalmont all got their work in.

Joey Sanchez was on the mound

for West Valley. The righthander allowed eight hits and 12 runs over one inning, striking out one. Nate Navarrete and AJ Martinez entered the game as relief, throwing three innings and one inning, respectively.

The Lions tallied 13 hits in the game with McCalmont, Butler, Valencia, and Rezkalah each collecting multiple hits. McCalmont went 3-for-4 at the plate with 4 RBIs and a stolen base to lead Linfield Christian on offense. Travis Favorite led West Valley with one hit in three at bats. The Lions are currently in fourth place in the Ambassador League and will take on Aquinas this week when league play begins.

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

Linfield Christian’s Ryan McCalmont (32) delivers a pitch against West Valley Saturday, March 18.

Valley News/Action Captures Media Group

Soto awarded Southwestern League girls’ water polo MVP; Area locals selected to All-CIF team

JP Raineri

Sports Editor

The Southwestern League water polo coaches and Darin Mott, athletic director of Murrieta Valley High School, recently announced the selections for the First and Second All-League teams. The first-place team always hosts the meeting with their school’s athletic director, which, again, went the way of the Nighthawks for the girls’ teams. Garnishing an undefeated Southwestern League record, Murrieta Valley still has not been challenged for a league title since before 2014. The Nighthawks not only won league, but also swam their way to a CIF Southern Section Division 2 title this past season, giving them their sixth overall, and first since 2016. Based on where the SWL team placed also determines how many selections that team will get. For the girls’ team, Murrieta Valley showcased senior Jaden Soto as the league MVP, and by coming in first place, was granted five selections overall: three First

Team, two Second Team. League standings were not completed for this past season on MaxPreps, but it looks as if Great Oak, Vista Murrieta, Chaparral, Temecula Valley and Murrieta Mesa placed in that order.

The complete list of girls’ water polo players selected as All-League for the SWL are as follows:

GIRLS’ MVP: Jaden Soto –Murrieta Valley – 12

GIRLS’ FIRST TEAM Mackenzie Wood, Murrieta Valley (11); Elizabeth Hernandez, Murrieta Valley (12); Amy Pearce, Murrieta Valley (12); Jill Rumph, Great Oak (11); Paige Ellinger, Great Oak (12); Aleria Valenzuela, Vista Murrieta (11); Hailey Munoz, Vista Murrieta (12); Mallory Benedict, Chaparral (12); Kayla Tweed, Temecula Valley (12); Ariah Martinez, Temecula Valley (10).

GIRLS’ SECOND TEAM

Kristin Alexander, Murrieta Valley (12); Grace Boyer, Murrieta Valley (9); Maddie Turner, Vista Murrieta (12); Celeste Gonzalez,

Vista Murrieta (12); Amber Morgan, Great Oak (12); Larissa Mendiburo, Great Oak (11); Natalia Ferrette, Chaparral (11); Aiden Mante, Chaparral (11); Brooke Davis, Temecula Valley (12); Nicole Allbee, Temecula Valley (12); Savannah Sollie, Murrieta Mesa (12); Kristen Maag, Murrieta Mesa (12).

As for All-CIF Southern Section selections, Soto was named the Player of the Year in Division 2, and was joined by three teammates, as well as head coach Bryan Lynton, who was selected as the Coach of the Year. The three Nighthawks also selected were Mackenzie Wood, Elizabeth Hernandez, and Amy Pearce.

In Division 4, representing the area was Reagann Elders, a senior from Temescal Canyon, and in Division 6, Marianna Smith and Brooke Bimbo, both juniors from Lakeside High School, represented from the Elsinore area.

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

Murrieta Fire & Rescue celebrates 76th anniversary with Firefighter’s BBQ

MURRIETA – Murrieta Fire & Rescue will host its popular annual Firefighter’s BBQ Saturday, April 15, from noon to 6 p.m. at Murrieta’s Town Square Park. This year’s event will be bigger than ever, with live music at Murrieta’s Town Square Park Amphitheater, a variety of activities throughout the day, vendors, and other activities.

The Murrieta Firefighter’s BBQ is one of Riverside County’s longestrunning events, with the first barbecue held in 1948. As is the tradition, barbecue guests will enjoy a smoked tri-tip lunch, music, beer and wine garden, cornhole tournament and a vendors’ market. The event is open to the public and free to attend. Attendees will get to cheer on fire explorers from throughout Southern California in the annual Fire Explorers “Muster” Competition.

The day will be filled with fun, food and entertainment and is a way for the community to show

their support for the dedicated public safety personnel serving at MFR. It is also a way for MFR to show its appreciation for the community it has served the past 76 years. In addition to the traditional barbecue fare, the event will feature additional food options and general vendors, live music and a DJ. Fun for all ages, this is an event the community won’t want to miss.

Fire Chief Bernie Molloy expressed his pride for the service that Murrieta Fire & Rescue provides to the community.

“I am incredibly proud of Murrieta Fire & Rescue and the service that our team provides. We have a strong culture that has been built over the last 76 years, and it is an honor to share part of that culture with the community,” Molloy said.

Murrieta Fire & Rescue celebrates its 76th anniversary the day after this year’s Firefighters

BBQ, Sunday, April 16. It was on that day in 1947 that the citizens of Murrieta voted to form the Murrieta Fire Protection District. With $1,400 donated by the community, the fire district purchased a 1941 International four-wheel-drive crash truck. At the toll of a bell atop the Methodist Church, the 10 fire district volunteers responded to six calls that first year. In 1987, Murrieta Fire & Rescue changed from an all-volunteer fire district to a combined career and volunteerstaffed fire district. Always on the cutting edge of fire protection, in July 1990, it was the first fire department in Riverside County to implement the emergency medical technician – defibrillator. In August 2018, MFR became the first accredited fire agency in Riverside County and the 18th in the state. Attending the event is free and open to the public, with a nominal fee for the barbecue lunch. MFR is

currently accepting applications for event vendors. Interested vendors should visit http://MFRBBQ.com to access the vendor application. The website also provides general

information about the event. Follow @murrietafire on Instagram and Facebook.

Submitted by Murrieta Fire & Rescue.

Simpson Park returns to normal hours of operation

On Sept. 5, 2022, the Fairview Fire broke out impacting Simpson Park. As a result of the fire, the City of Hemet closed Simpson Park for public access to decrease danger to the public. As the threat of fire danger subsided, the park was reopened with the modified hours of 6 a.m. to noon, Monday through Sunday. Due to the recent weather events, fire danger in the area of Simpson Park is considered to be extremely low. As a result of decreased fire danger, the City of Hemet has restored the park hours to the normal

schedule of 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Sunday.

Hemet Fire recommends the public exercise caution in the area of burn scars that have been heavily impacted by rain and be aware of other washout conditions.

The City is extremely grateful for the overwhelming support offered by residents during and after the Fairview fire.

For additional information, please contact the Fire Administration at 951-765-2450.

Submitted by the City of Hemet.

Linfield Christian shortstop Elijah Butler (14) is forced out at second base as West Valley’s Westin Bridwell looks to make the throw to first.

Linfield Christian’s Cody Emig (23) reacts to hitting a double.

Linfield Christian’s Hunter Wilson (7) throws against West Valley Saturday, March 18.

Valley News/Action Captures Media Group photos

Southwestern League girls’ water polo MVP and CIF-SS Division 2 Player of the Year Jaden Soto will be attending and playing next season at Concordia University in Irvine. Valley News/Courtesy photo

Freedom Crest Elementary learns how it got its name

MENIFEE – Freedom Crest Elementary held its weekly Freedom Friday assembly, March 10, that brought together students and faculty in a celebration of school culture and pride. The assembly was made all the more special by the attendance of John O’Donnell, the son of Menifee Union School District board Trustee Bob O’Donnell and a key

contributor in the naming of the elementary school.

“We had a large naming committee, and we started with about 20 names,” Trustee Bob O’Donnell said. “We narrowed it down to two names. Freedom

Crest felt the most patriotic.”

At the school assembly, O’Donnell spoke briefly about the school’s history, part of which

is memorialized on a plaque in the front office of the school. The description on the plaque explains how the school’s name was meant to pay tribute to those who serve in the name of freedom.

“They help build the foundation and instill core values of citizenship, respect, and commitment in our children who, in truth, are ‘freedom’s crest,’” according to

the plaque description.

As a Menifee native, John O’Donnell grew up in Menifee and attended Menifee Elementary School. He eventually joined the United States Marine Corps, and 22 years later, he retired as gunnery sergeant.

In reflection on the naming of the school, John O’Donnell shared, “It was a unique time in

Menifee Valley students honored in February

Sarah Rico

Special to Valley News

The Perris Valley Chamber of Commerce and the Menifee Valley Chamber of Commerce kicked off the 2022-2023 Student of the Month program in September. The students are nominated by their teachers and staff at their respective school sites and are chosen for their character, integrity, love of learning, ability to persevere and overcome challenging circumstances, community service, and how they make a difference on their high school campus.

February’s students and their families attended a breakfast sponsored by the Perris and

Menifee Chambers of Commerce along with local businesses and organizations. Principals and teachers from each high school shared stories about the students and they each received certificates of recognition, numerous gifts, congratulations and encouragement from local, county, state and federal dignitaries.

Genesis Morales

Heritage High School’s Student of the Month is Genesis Morales. Genesis plays on the girls’ basketball team and is a video director/producer of various events including the Student of the Month program. She has had a passion for videography since the sixth grade and has developed her craft while at Heritage. Genesis shared that

she initially struggled when she first started at Heritage feeling very alone and not wanting to get involved with anyone or anything at school. However, through some encouragement from her PE teacher she tried out, and made, the basketball team which helped her come out of her shell. She then got involved in film production which changed everything for her, giving her the courage to move forward with her passion of videography. Genesis is currently undecided as to where she will continue her education. However, she does have an opportunity to start her videography career right after completing high school.

American history, there was a lot going on. We wanted to find a school name that would remind students that freedom is not free.”

He even shared with students lessons learned from his father:

“Ten Things That Require Zero Talent.”

Submitted by Menifee Union School District.

is February’s Student of the Month.

Ella currently holds a 4.5 GPA. She is involved in AVID and is part of the Student Gospel community. Ella is amazing in academics earning nothing less than an A, according to Principal Dr. Jennifer Thomasian. Many teachers agreed with Thomasian, as there were over 10 of them supporting her nomination giving many accolades on her behalf. Her AP Calculus teacher Ryan Lundstrom quoted from a number of comments about Ella including the following, “Ella is a great choice. She is so kind and joyful, also an exceptional student academically. When I had a new student in my class very late in the semester, she took her under her wing and really made her feel welcome.” Ella plans to further her education at either UC Davis or Texas A&M to become a veterinarian and also minor in American Sign Language.

Cherylann Burke

Cherylann Burke is Perris Lake High School’s Student of the Month. Perris Lake is a unique campus in that this is one of the last opportunities students have to complete their high school credits and earn their diploma.

Cherylann’s high school journey did not start off positively. She attended multiple schools before coming to Perris Lake and received negative feedback from some of her prior teachers that affected her confidence. However, after coming to the “Lake,” she was met by a loving and attentive staff and now, she is thriving in school. Cherylann shared that her confidence has increased, and she is very grateful for the staff at Perris Lake. “I’m on the

Valley News/Courtesy photo

Honor Roll, I’m Student of the Month, I have great grades, and I have the most amazing people and teachers I could ask for,” she said. Cherylann plans to continue her education at Mt. San Jacinto College and then transfer to a fouryear university to major in animal science to become a veterinarian.

German De Lara Perris High School’s Student of the Month is German De Lara. German’s story is a story of success, according to Principal Juan Santos. He has overcome a number of obstacles and has grown immensely in the last couple of years. German shared some of his struggles and how he came to the realization that if he wanted something to change in his life, he had to be the one to initiate that change. “It came to a point in life that I realized that my choices were not taking me anywhere,” he said. “I stopped hanging out with these bad influences, and now I’m 73 school days from graduating from high school.” German’s case carrier, Ms. Cintia Osuna, shared how proud she was of him, seeing him now being an example for others and making an impact at Perris High School. German plans to attend trade school after graduation with an interest in electrical or auto mechanics. All of these students demonstrated a desire to work hard and have a drive to exceed others and their own expectations. The Perris Valley Chamber and the Menifee Valley Chamber wish them the best in their endeavors. If you wish to learn more about the Student of the Month Program, please contact founder Sally Myers at 951-506-8024.

Ella Stenerson Paloma Valley’s Ella Stenerson

John O’Donnell sharing the school’s history at the Freedom Friday assembly.

From left, Menifee Union School District board Trustee Bob O’Donnell, former military and son of Bob O’Donnell; John O’Donnell and Freedom Crest Elementary Principal Eli Orr attend the Freedom Friday assembly.

Valley News/Menifee Union School District photos

Recipients of the Menifee Valley/Perris Valley Chamber of Commerce Student of the Month award for February are, seated from left, Genesis Morales, Ella Stenerson, Cherylann Burke and German De Lara. Standing behind them are SOM program founder Sally Myers and PUHSD Superintendent Grant Bennett.

Soboba Indian Health Clinic opens new expanded location

Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians

Special to the Valley News

After much planning and designing, the new Soboba Indian Health Clinic opened its doors at the Soboba Indian Reservation with an official ribbon cutting ceremony Friday, March 3.

Bill Thomsen, CEO of Riverside-San Bernardino County Indian Health Inc., said the new clinic, which replaces the previous one located on Donna Way in San Jacinto, sits on just over eight acres.

“We have 13 exam rooms, 10 dental operatories, about 70 staff members from physicians, nurses, dentists, several registered dental assistants, a hygienist, nutritionist, optometrist, optician, two lab technicians, two X-ray staff, a facilities coordinator who is responsible for the dayto-day operations of the clinic and numerous front office staff,” Thomsen said. “We realized we needed a much larger clinic in 2015.

“Our patient numbers were increasing; we added additional staff and the existing clinic became too small overnight. Through the support of our board of directors, we created a capital projects program which mapped our plan to construct new San Manuel, Soboba, Morongo, Torres Martinez, Pechanga, Santa Rosa and Cahuilla Indian Health clinics. Each of these clinics are on reservation land, except for the San Manuel clinic, and a replacement for an aged clinic building. The Santa Rosa and Cahuilla clinics replaced a leased office which was located in the town of Anza. These two clinics are the first for these tribes on their reservations. All these new clinics have been completed and are open for services. Our remaining capital project is the Morongo clinic, and we are in the early stages of the schematic design planning,” he said.

Soboba Tribal Council Chair Isaiah Vivanco said, “We appreciate the RiversideSan Bernardino Indian health consortium’s willingness to bring this new facility to our reservation. It’s been almost 10 years in the making and we are truly excited to finally open its doors.”

Vivanco said the Soboba clinic originated on the reservation but in the 1980s, the facility was too small to accommodate Tribal members’ needs and was moved to a location in San Jacinto. In the late 1990s, there was another move to an even bigger facility that was about 14,000 square feet.

“Now, here we are, around 40 years later, coming back home to the Soboba reservation in a new state-of-the-art 40,000-squarefoot health clinic,” he said. “It’s awesome to see all the new amenities here for our members and those of surrounding reservations.”

Some of the new services and improved past services include medical, dental, eye care, behavioral health, pharmacy, lab, WIC, nutrition, x-ray, mammography, ultrasound and a fitness center, to name a few.

“Also located on the same property is our new Commodities Food Distribution warehouse,” Thomsen said. “This is a USDAfunded program which we have had for over 40 years. Previously we leased a warehouse in Beaumont.”

Currently, the Soboba clinic is the newest, with the Cahuilla clinic having opened in November 2022. It is the largest as the Torres Martinez, Pechanga and Cahuilla Clinic are each about 11,605 square feet. The Santa Rosa clinic is about 3,500 square feet. The new Morongo clinic’s size has not been determined but will only be larger than Soboba’s clinic because it will include a board of directors conference room and some administrative offices at that location.

Soboba Delegate Julie ArriettaParcero has been representing the Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians on the RSBCIHI board since 2013. She enjoys helping to write policies, attend conferences and assist with hosting conferences. She welcomes the many opportunities she is given to communicate with other reservations regarding keeping all the clinics up to date and ensuring everything is running as smoothly as possible.

“I feel seeing this clinic completed has been a big accomplishment for the employees and the patients and I’m glad to see it back on the reservation,” Arrietta-Parcero said. “I was so proud to be a part of it from start to finish.”

Camille Diaz, also a Soboba Delegate, began serving on the board two and one-half years ago because she felt it was important to give back to her Tribe.

“Health care has always been a priority to me and quality care for the wellbeing of our Tribal members is crucial,” she said. “It’s an honor to be part of ensuring that Tribal members get the care that they need.”

Diaz has been the school nurse at Noli Indian School on the Soboba Reservation for nearly seven years. She said the new Soboba Indian Health Clinic will better support the community due to its convenient location and increased staffing levels.

“Most of all, I am impressed by all of the hard work and dedication from staff and board members to make this a reality,” Diaz said.

Thomsen, who has been with RSBCIHI since February 1996, said the Soboba clinic has consistently been RSBCIHI’s busiest clinic for all clinical services, adding, “We expect this new clinic to accommodate more patients based on the additional

medical examination rooms, dental operatories and behavioral health office space.”

In 2022, there were 4,416 patients seen with 17,876 visits across all clinical departments at the Soboba site. Healthcare services are available to any eligible federally recognized Native American or Alaskan Native who resides within the two-county service area of RSBCIHI. The Soboba Indian Health Clinic, 23119 Soboba Road, is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday; 8 a.m.to 7 p.m. Wednesday and 8 a.m.to 2 p.m. Friday. For more information, contact 951-654-0803, 951-487-9627 or 800-851-5816 or visit http://www. rsbcihi.org.

Hospice of the Valleys earns 5-star rating in survey

MURRIETA – Hospice of the Valleys, 25240 Hancock Ave., Suite 120, in Murrieta has been recognized as a five-star organization, placing it in the top hospices in the country and the only five-star hospice in Riverside County.

“This recognition means so much to us at Hospice of the Valleys. It demonstrates that our compassionate patient-centered care, attention to detail and focus on quality improvement is recognized and valued by the

families we serve,” Marta SarverMartinez, RN, administrator and director of nursing at Hospice of the Valleys, said. The rating is scored through the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ Consumer Assessment of the Healthcare Providers and Systems. The survey is given to the family members of the patients cared for, focusing on a variety of categories, including communication with family, getting timely help, treating patients with respect, emotional

and spiritual support, help for pain and symptoms, training family to care for the patient, rating of the hospice and willingness to recommend this hospice. For more information, visit http://medicare. gov/care-compare. Only 10% of hospices nationally have earned five stars. And only 195 hospices of the 2,026 hospices in the United States have been awarded the rating that gives them the five-star status. Submitted by Hospice of the Valleys.

The new Soboba Indian Health Clinic on the Soboba Indian Reservation is much larger and offers more services than the old building on Donna Way in San Jacinto. Valley News/Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians photos

A ribbon cutting ceremony Friday, March 3, marks the opening of the new Soboba Indian Health Clinic. Soboba Tribal Council Chair Isaiah Vivanco and Riverside-San Bernardino County Indian Health Inc. Board President Sherri Salgado both do the honors of cutting the ribbon.

A proclamation by Riverside County Supervisor Yxstian Gutierrez is presented at the ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Soboba Indian Health Clinic with from left, Soboba Vice Chair Geneva Mojado, Soboba Sergeant-at-Arms Kelli Hurtado, Soboba Chair Isaiah Vivanco, RSBCIHI Board of Directors President Sherri Salgado, Riverside County Supervisor Yxstian Gutierrez, RSBCIHI CEO Bill Thomsen, Soboba Delegate Julie Arrietta-Parcero and Soboba Delegate Camille Diaz.

One of 10 dental operatories at the new Soboba Indian Health Clinic available to serve Tribal members.

Highway Update

Caltrans street sweeping taking place on I-215 through Murrieta and Menifee

Tony Ault Staff Writer

This week motorists may be seeing California Department of Transportation street sweeping crews performing work operations on Interstate 215 in Murrieta and Menifee.

Work will occur through Friday, March 24 from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The following are planned work and alternating closure locations: northbound and southbound I-215 right shoulder and No. 3 lane from I-15/I-215 interchange to McCall Blvd.; northbound and southbound I-215 center median, left shoulder and No. 1 lane From I-15/I-215 interchange to McCall Blvd.

www.myvalleynews.com

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

Hemet Caltrans work continues on State Route 79 in Hemet. The project will modify and upgrade a traffic signal, reconstruct and upgrade sidewalks, curb ramps and driveways to current Americans with Disabilities Act standards. This will take place at the intersection of E. Latham and Florida avenues. Crews continue with digging, set up and installation of foundations for signal posts.

Temporary pedestrian access will be provided as soon as weather conditions allow. Use caution in and around the construction zone through Friday, March 24 from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

San Jacinto Caltrans continues work on the $4 million safety project to construct a median concrete barrier and rumble

strips on State Route 79 near San Jacinto, weather and temperature dependent. The schedule is Monday through Friday, 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. All work will take place in the median behind the k-rails. Crews will sawcut, break existing asphalt, and excavate for the installation of a new drainage pipe.

Moreno Valley

The City of Moreno Valley, in partnership with Caltrans, is replacing the Moreno Beach Drive two-lane bridge with a sevenlane bridge and reconfiguring the north side of the interchange to allow easier access to and from State Route 60. Improvements will include a new westbound auxiliary lane, as well as a dedicated southbound Moreno Beach Drive to westbound State Route 60 on-ramp.

Palm Springs Caltrans continued work on the project to construct and upgrade curb ramps to ADA standards and modify signal and lighting systems on State Route 111 in Palm Springs, weather permitting. Crews will continue work from Lawrence Crossley Road to West Gateway Drive. A minimum of one lane will be open in each direction at all times through Friday, March 24 from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily.

Desert Center

The California Department of Transportation continues operations on a pavement rehabilitation project from Desert Center to west of Wiley’s Well Rest Area (PM 134) on Interstate 10, weather permitting. Daytime closures are Monday through Friday from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Crews will be removing k-rail and relocating k-rail on the eastbound I-10. Lane 1 will be closed (quarter mile closures) from Corn Springs Road to Wiley’s Well Road.

San Bernardino Caltrans continues its work to rehabilitate 59 miles of lanes, ramps and drainage systems on Interstate 15 in San Bernardino County. The project spans from Oak Hill Road in Hesperia to just south of Bear Valley Road in Victorville. Be alert for work trucks entering and exiting from the center median in the project area.

To avoid delays, use SR-138 to SR-18 in Phelan back to I-15 as a detour. Please use caution and remember to reduce your speed when approaching and driving through the construction zones.

RCWD endorses Gonzales-Brady for LAFCO position

Joe Naiman Writer

Carol Lee Gonzales-Brady is on the Rancho California Water District board, and she is also seeking a seat on the board of Riverside County’s Local Agency Formation Commission. A 7-0 RCWD board vote March 9 gave Gonzales-Brady the RCWD vote for the position.

“We need to unite our voices and find common ground and not work against one another,” GonzalesBrady said. “You can either sit back and complain, or you can step up and participate in the process.”

LAFCO handles jurisdictional boundary changes including incorporations, annexations, consolidations, latent powers expansions and detachments.

The LAFCO board consists of two county supervisors, two city council members, two members from special districts and one public member. LAFCO commissioners have four-year terms.

Special districts include independent special districts, which have independently elected directors, and dependent special districts, whose members are the Riverside County Board of Supervisors or in some cases a city council. The boards of independent special districts choose the two special districts’ representatives on the LAFCO board. One of the Riverside County special districts’ commissioners is from the Western Region and the other is from the Eastern Region.

The Eastern Region commissioner elected will serve a term through May 6, 2024, while the elected Western Region commissioner’s term will expire on May 4, 2026.

Gonzales-Brady is one of six candidates for the Western Region seat. The others are Stephen Corona of Eastern Municipal Water District, Angela Little of Valley-Wide Recreation and Park District, Steve Pastor of Lake Hemet Municipal Water District, John Skerbelis of Rubidoux Community Services District and Larry Smith of San Gorgonio Pass Water Agency. Each class of commissioners has an alternate and Pastor is currently LAFCO’s alternate special districts member, so if he is elected, the alternate special districts member seat will become vacant and a subsequent election will choose that alternate commissioner. Ballots must be received by March 27.

The mission statement of LAFCO includes encouraging public involvement. “I think that’s a component that could be improved upon,” Gonzales-Brady said.

Sometimes that need for more involvement includes considering the situations of agencies other than the larger ones. “It would be a huge plus if there’s an emphasis on the part of LAFCO to encourage that engagement,” she said. “Listening is going to be a very important aspect as well.”

That would bring her to Temecula in 2004. “I want to be on land,” she said.

Her parents bought land in Fallbrook in 1962. Her father had been a U.S. Customs agent who was in charge of San Pedro Harbor, and the plan was for her parents to move to Fallbrook after her father retired. “My dream was to move to Fallbrook and have horses,” Gonzales-Brady said.

Although her parents never moved to Fallbrook, GonzalesBrady planted vines on the Fallbrook property. When she and her husband moved from Irvine to Temecula in 2004, she sold the Fallbrook property to Homes for Our Troops, which builds houses for severelywounded veterans. Gonzales-Brady grows several red varietals on her De Portola Wine Trail property.

Gonzales-Brady had previous utility experience prior to being elected to the RCWD board. She worked for Southern California Edison for 15 years, including the Mission Power and Energy subsidiary which produced geothermal energy.

Her personal experience as a grape grower also contributed to her water background. “I had always been in some regards in the water world,” she said. “I never really dreamed that I would become such a part of water.”

is a member of the Temecula Winegrowers Association and the California Farm Bureau Federation, was appointed to serve on the Temecula-Elsinore-Anza-Murrieta Resource Conservation District’s board before she ran for the RCWD office.

At one time, RCWD board members were elected in oddnumbered years. The Nov. 2017 election was for a five-year term, as the transition to even-numbered years would take place during that time.

“I was ready to do something in the service arena,” Gonzales-Brady said. “It just started to become a real passion.”

She was encouraged to run for the RCWD board. “I got to thinking about it, and the rest is history,” she said.

The Rancho California Water District has at-large seats which are staggered. Four board positions were subject to the Nov. 2022 election. Gonzales-Brady had the highest vote total of the five candidates and was thus elected to a second term.

When Gonzales-Brady stresses transparency and public involvement she notes that customers should initiate participation when warranted. “The communication goes both ways,” she said. “I appreciate hearing about their concerns.”

to valleyeditor@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.

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

Both special district seats are currently vacant. Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District director Phil Williams passed away Nov. 20. Nancy Wright had been on the board of the Mission Springs Water District (Desert Hot Springs) but lost her Nov. 2022 re-election campaign.

Gonzales-Brady was raised in El Monte and attended Arroyo High School before majoring in business administration at Pepperdine University. After she completed college she lived both in South Pasadena and in the Chapman Woods area of unincorporated Pasadena. “I always grew up on wide open spaces,” she said. “I always had a love for open space and land.”

A resource conservation district does not have regulatory power but is classified as a special district. Resource conservation districts were formed to control water runoff and prevent soil erosion. They are now also involved in watershed management, recreational area management, urban and agricultural irrigation and water use, water quality, forest land productivity, and public education for children and adults. Gonzales-Brady, who

Riverside County is in Region 9 of the Association of California Water Agencies. The Region 9 board has five members, and she is one of those. She is also on the board of the Southern California Water Coalition and the Urban Water Institute.

Gonzales-Brady is also involved in various equestrian activities. She and her husband have three children, six grandchildren and three greatgrandchildren.

RCWD to seek desal, recharge feasibility grants

Joe Naiman Writer

The March 9 meeting of the Rancho California Water District board included a 7-0 vote to approve two resolutions in support of grant applications. Both grants would be awarded by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation. One resolution expresses support for a grant to help fund the Western Riverside County Regional Desalination Feasibility Study while the other resolution acknowledges the RCWD interest in a groundwater recharge feasibility study. The board action also approved negotiation between staff and the Bureau of Reclamation and authorized RCWD staff to execute cooperative agreements for the grants if awarded. Both grants seek $1 million with the amount being divided equally among the partners in each project.

Anza Valley Outlook and Valley News

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The feasibility studies would explore opportunities for enhancing regional water supply reliability.

The Western Riverside County Regional Desalination Feasibility Study would be developed by Rancho Water, Eastern Municipal Water District, Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District and Western Municipal Water District. The study would evaluate potential options for conveying desalinated water from the Pacific Ocean to western Riverside County for use by the partnering agencies’ customers.

The Regional Desalination and Groundwater Recharge Feasibility Study involves Rancho Water, Fallbrook Public Utility District, Rainbow Municipal Water District, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton and city of Oceanside and would evaluate options for advanced recycled water treatment, including brine disposal and storage of water

in local groundwater basins for later potable use.

Rancho Water hopes to implement an indirect potable reuse project to maximize the use of recycled water, to reduce the amount of recycled water disposed outside of the Santa Margarita Watershed, to increase water supply reliability and to reduce the salinity and thus improve the water quality of supply from the Santa Margarita River Watershed. The RCWD project requires the disposal of brine from the demineralization of recycled water, and the district desires to dispose of the brine to the Pacific Ocean by utilizing available capacity within the Oceanside and Fallbrook outfall lines.

The grants would be funded through the Bureau of Reclamation’s WaterSMART Water Recycling and Desalination Planning Grant program which has a 1:1 match

requirement. The $1 million match would be divided equally between the partners in each project, so Rancho would be responsible for a $250,000 match on the Western Riverside County Regional Desalination Feasibility Study grant and a $200,000 match on the Regional Desalination and Groundwater Recharge Feasibility Study funding. The match amount may include staff time and may also include state grant money.

A November 2022 RCWD board action approved a grant application to the state Department of Water Resources for a groundwater banking feasibility study which would be a decision support tool for potential groundwater banking in the Temecula Valley Groundwater Basin.

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

Public comment period opens for off-highway vehicle grants

SAN BERNARDINO – Officials with San Bernardino National Forest are seeking comments from the public on two preliminary grants submitted to the state of California to help fund the forest’s off-highway vehicle operations. The draft applications, based on public and staff feedback given in February, seek to enhance ground operations and law enforcement functions, including

ground operations requests funding for route monitoring and maintenance; facility operations and maintenance at five staging areas, six trailering sites and three campgrounds; habitat monitoring; soil conservation; archaeology site steward program and new equipment to monitor trails and restoration requests funding for staffing and equipment to restore natural habitats in and around

OHV trails and staging areas. Comments are required to be submitted to California State Parks via their website under the “grants.” Comments will be accepted until Monday, May 1, by 5 p.m. PDT. Forest staff will review and consider the public comments and submit their final grant applications by Monday, June 5.

The full proposals can be

read at California State Parks’ OHV website at https://ohv. parks.ca.gov/?page_id=1140 on the Grants and Cooperative Agreements Program webpage. Use the “Public Review Instructions” guide on the left sidebar menu for help searching for applications and submitting comments.

Submitted by the U.S. Forest Service.

Hamilton High School baseball team off ers sponsorship opportunities

A Hamilton High School Bobcat baseball player slams the ball at a recent away game.

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

The Bobcat Country Boosters are offering sponsorship opportunities for the 2023 Hamilton High School

Bobcat baseball season. The purchase of sponsorship banners and plaques not only help local businesses advertise at games, but it also benefits the athletes and the baseball program overall.

Anza Apostolic Church hosts traditional Mexican

taco feast

“Do you own a local business and are interested in sponsoring our Hamilton High School baseball team?” sponsorship organizer Shannon Aanestad asked. “This is a great program with some

amazing kids. We really want to make this year special for them.”

To become a sponsor, there are two different options available. One is the Plaque Sponsorship that includes a plaque to be displayed

Anza Valley Outlook/Shannon Aanestad photo at the school and social media mentions for a $300 donation. The second option is the Banner Sponsorship that includes a banner

see BOBCATS, page D-4

Hamilton High School boys varsity volleyball team off to a

promising 2023 season

Latin American burritos, street tacos and chili verde are on the menu at the Anza Apostolic Church’s traditional Mexican taco sale Saturday, March 18.

The Anza Apostolic Church hosted a traditional Mexican taco sale Saturday, March 18. The event served as a way to fundraise while warmly welcoming visitors to the church. A festive atmosphere was

Anza Valley Outlook/Adrian Campos photo seen with smiles, laughter and chitchat.

Traditional street tacos, burritos and chili verde were served with all the extras such as guacamole, cilantro, chopped onions, tender Mexican rice, homemade refried see SALE, page D-4

The Hamilton High School Bobcats square up against their opponents at the varsity volleyball game Tuesday, March 7.

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

The Hamilton High School boys varsity volleyball team is off to a promising 2023 season. The players showed off their team talent as they hone their skills.

In a competition against Liberty High School in Menifee Wednesday, March 8, the Bobcats held their ground until finally succumbing to their opponents in a dramatic tie-breaker game.

Coach Lance Fogle is propelling the team forward. Sale Faleona (23), Cody Fogle (3), Gabriel Garcia Magallon (34), Painter Hildahl (15), Felipe Valdovinos Valencia (1), Kevin Gomez (2), Tobby Kounlabout (00) and Hunter Edminsten (43) showed exceptional promise during the five games that night.

The Bobcats’ diligence paid off Thursday, March 9, as the team won their away non-conference match against Cathedral City by a

Anza Valley Outlook/Trond Hildahl photo

score of 3-2. With several games now under their belts, the Bobcats will play 2-3 games a week throughout the season.

For more information about the Hamilton High School boys varsity volleyball Bobcats, www. maxpreps.com/ca/anza/hamiltonbobcats/volleyball/boys.

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

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

ANZA’S UPCOMING EVENTS

If you have an upcoming community event, email it to valleyeditor@reedermedia.com, put “attention events” in the subject line. Readers should call ahead on some listed events for the latest updates.

Regular Happenings

ONGOING – Anza Electric

Cooperative and F.I.N.D. Food Bank offers a free mobile food pantry the second Saturday of every month at the AEC office, 58470 Highway 371, from 10:3011:30 a.m. All are welcome. CalFresh application assistance and free community health services are also available. Bring your own reusable bags to take food home. Volunteers welcome. For more information, contact the AEC office at 951-763-4333.

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

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

Backcountry Horsemen Redshank Riders – Meeting monthly on the second Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. Locations change, so please contact Mike by email at stumblinl55@gmail. com or by calling (951) 7609255.

Health, exercise, resources and recovery meetings

Fit after 50 – 10:30-11t:30 a.m.

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

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

Veterans’ Gathering

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

The Most Excellent Way

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

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

Alcoholics Anonymous – 8 p.m. Wednesday evenings at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 56095 Pena Road in Anza. For more information, call 951-763-4226.

Bereaved Parents of the USA

– The Aguanga-Anza Chapter of BPUSA will hold its meetings at 6 p.m. on the first and third Wednesday of each month at 49109 Lakeshore Blvd. in Aguanga. For more information,

contact chapter leader Linda Hardee at 951-551-2826.

Free Mobile Health Clinic

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

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

Food ministries

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

Living Hope Christian Fellowship Community Dinner

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

Food for the Faithful – 8 a.m.

The food bank hands out food the last Friday of the month until the food is gone. The clothes closet will be open too. Emergency food handed out as needed at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. FFF is a non-denominational nonprofit. All in need are welcome; call Esther Barragan at 951-7635636.

Bible Studies

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

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

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

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

Monthly Christian Men’s Breakfast – 9 a.m. Breakfast takes place the fourth Saturday of each month and rotates to different locations. Contact Jeff Crawley at 951-763-1257 for more information.

Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church – 10 a.m. Weekly Wednesday Bible study takes place at 56095 Pena Road in Anza. Call 951-763-4226 for more information.

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

Anza First Southern Baptist Church - Begin your week with Sunday School for all ages at 9 a.m., followed by Sunday morning worship at 10:30 a.m.

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

Clubs

Anza Valley VFW Post 1873

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

High Country 4-H Club – 6:30 p.m. Meetings are on the third Wednesday of the month, except February, at Anza Community Hall. 4-H Club is for youth 5 to 19 years old offering a variety of projects. High Country 4-H Club is open to children living in the Anza, Aguanga and surrounding areas. For more information, call Allison Renck at 951-663-5452.

Anza Valley Artists Meetings – 1 p.m. Meetings are the third Saturday of each month at various locations. Share art, ideas and participate in shows. Guest speakers are always needed. For more information, call president Rosie Grindle at 951928-1248. Find helpful art tips at http://www.facebook.com/ AnzaValleyArtists/

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

Anza Valley Lions Club – The Anza Valley Lions Club has been reinstated and is open to all men and women who want to work together for the betterment of the community. The group is working on securing a new venue for meetings. Meetings and events are posted on the Anza Lions Club of Anza Valley Facebook page

at https://www.facebook.com/

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

Boy Scouts Troop 319 –Cub Scouts meet 6 p.m. every Tuesday, and Boy Scouts meet 7 p.m. every Wednesday at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints on Contreras Road, south of state Route 371, in Anza. For more information, call Richard Hotchkiss at 951551-3154.

Boys Scouts Troop 371 – Boy Scouts meet at Lake Riverside Estates. For more information, call Ginny Kinser at 909-7027902. Civil Air Patrol – Squadron 59 is looking for new members of all ages. For more information, call squadron commander Maj. Dennis Sheehan from the Anza area at 951-403-4940. To learn more and see the club’s meeting schedule, visit http://www. squadron59.org

Fire Explorer Program – 6 p.m. The program meets every second, third and fourth Tuesday of the month at Fire Station 29 on state Route 371 in Anza. Call 951-763-5611 for information.

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

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

Organizations

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

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

Anza Community Hall – 7 p.m. General membership meetings are held the fourth Thursday of the month. Memberships cost $20 per person or $35 per business, and both get one vote. No government funds are allocated for the Hall, which pays its bills through memberships and swap meets. Voting members receive discounts off hall rentals, swap meet booths and save on propane gas from Ferrellgas. Mail membership to: Anza Community Building Inc. at P.O. Box 390091, Anza, CA 92539. The hall is located at 56630 Highway 371 in Anza. Swap meet held each Saturday of the month, weather permitting, early morning to 1 p.m. Vendors wanted. For more information, call 951-282-4267.

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

Friends of the Anza Community Library announce Lego drive

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

Friends of the Anza Community Library announced they will be hosting a Lego drive to collect the building toys so children can use them to learn colors, problem solving and more at the Anza Community Library.

The project follows the example of many other regional libraries in making Legos available as a teaching tool to encourage youngsters to learn and have fun at the same time.

“Our local library needs your gently used or even brand new Lego sets and unique pieces for the children and community to use while at the library,” Friends of the Anza Community Library organizer Jill Kemerer-Roberts said. “The Anza Library currently borrows a small set of Legos from another library but would like its own set. You can bring Legos to the library, new or gently used are greatly appreciated.”

According to Kemerer-Roberts, playing with Legos promotes five major skills in children.

She explained in the early ages of life, most learning happens through the senses. A child observes the surroundings, reacts to voices and smells and adopts the basic understanding of object permanence and other concepts. Legos stimulate the sense of sight and touch.

Motor Skills after sensory skills, are the most important thing. A child learns how to hold, grasp and attach materials. Legos give an experience of learning through concrete objects while developing better functions of movement and increasing motor activity.

Cognitive Skills along with

Problem-solving is another significant skill set an individual needs. It is the ability to solve problems. While playing with Legos, a child faces minor

challenges, like having two pieces that do not go together. Upon practicing, a child gets better at merging the structures and finding the right connections. This ability intrigues the insights and expands the solution circles of the mind.

In organizations and uniformity chlldren learn color names with Legos while placing things in the correct spots and sorting colors that go together.

To donate new or previously used Lego sets, please drop them off at the Anza Community Library

Living Free Animal Sanctuary dog of the week: Meet Shasta

Shasta is a 9-year old male Siberian Husky. He is one of the goofiest dogs in the kennel and always ready to play with someone. Like a typical husky, Shasta loves to “talk” to you. His distinct, loveable and friendly personality will make you fall in love with him. He gets along with other dogs and loves going on walks to the dog park to play with his kennel mate.

Shasta will make a wonderful companion to any home. He is

looking for a loving family that is ready for fun and adventure.

Living Free is a nonprofit animal sanctuary whose primary mission is to rescue dogs and cats whose time is up at public shelters.

Living Free Animal Sanctuary is located on 155 acres in the San Jacinto Mountains near Idyllwild.

A diamond in the rough, the property is home to a kennelin-the-round, Give Life Park, catteries and protected open-air “catios,” breathtaking scenery

and wide open fields for the wild mustangs and rescued burros to run free.

Open by appointment. For dog adoptions, call 951321-9982, for cat adoptions, call 951-491-1898, and for all other inquiries, call 951- 659-4687.

To book a tour, visit www. living-free.org/visit-us. Living Free is located at 54250 Keen Camp Road in Mountain Center.

at 57430 Mitchell Road in Anza.

The library has its own separate entrance on the east side of the main Hamilton High School building.

Friends of the Anza Community Library are hosting a Lego drive to collect the building toys so children can use them to learn colors, problem solving and more at the Anza Community Library. the ability to do physical work, a person needs to think correctly and smartly. Interacting with Legos stimulates creativity, the functions of creating new models and aligning pieces in multiple shapes and structures. Legos also help a child understand how everything begins from the basics and progresses over time.

The Anza Valley Community Library is a joint-use public library, located inside Hamilton High School, but a completely separate entity. It is part of the Riverside County Library System.

The library’s hours are Thursday and Friday from 4 to 7 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday noon to 4 p.m. Staff may be reached by calling 951-763-4216.

Please join the Friends of the Anza Valley Community Library at www.facebook.com/groups/ friendsofanzapubliclibrary.

To learn more about the Anza Valley Community Library, please visit www.facebook.com/ AnzaLibrary.

Don’t have a library card? Go to www.rivlib.net to sign up online for free.

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

Anza Valley Outlook/Courtesy photo

Anza Valley Outlook/Courtesy photos

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

BOBCATS from page D-1

that will be displayed as well as social media shout-outs for a $500 donation.

Donations for any amount are welcome as well. All donations, whether as a sponsorship or any other contribution, are tax deductible. Checks may be made payable to Bobcat Country Boosters, Tax ID 61-1691561.

To donate or purchase a sponsorship, please contact Shannon Aanestad by email at ShannonAanestad@gmail.com

Hamilton High School is located at 57430 Mitchell Road in Anza. The school may be reached at 951763-1865.

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

Stop judging and start loving

idiot, moron, or worse when they couldn’t hear me. How many times have I judged someone because they weren’t doing or living how I think they should be?

Shamefully, I would have to say, way more than I can count. How about you? Could you keep track of all the times you’ve thought less of someone or judged someone because they didn’t measure up to your standard? I’m guessing we’re in the same boat here. It’s a flaw we all share.

That’s why Jesus said, “Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. For you will be treated as you treat others. The standard you use in judging is the standard by which you will be judged.”

(Matthew 4:11-12)

FAITH

In his wisdom, Jesus knew our human propensity for slander, gossip, malice and pride. So, he simply says, don’t do it, or it will come back to bite you.

The Bible says you are not to “speak evil of each other… if you criticize and judge each other, then you are criticizing and judging God’s law.” (James 4:11-12)

To speak evil of someone is a serious issue. It means to have malicious intent and to attack someone’s good name. In other words, you’re placing yourself above them by talking down about them. In short, you’re judging them when only God’s word can do that without bias.

Next time, before you let

Church volunteers help guide motorists to the traditional Mexican taco sale Saturday, March 18.

beans and more. The reasonablypriced fare was expertly prepared by Christina Monjaraz Soriano and her talented crew.

“It was the most excellent food,” Trish Benson said. “I had carne asada tacos with rice and beans. My hubby had a chorizo burrito.”

As patrons enjoyed their meals, Anza Apostolic Church pastor Walter Quinteros mingled with the crowd, kindly introducing himself to each and every one.

“We are planning to do this taco sale every Saturday,” he said.

Church members flagged motorists into the event with sign waving and shouting to passing

motorists on the street. Passersby honked as a continuous line of cars and trucks came for the feast.

“Great food is a wonderful way to bring people together,” one visitor said.

The Anza Apostolic Church is located at 58801-1/2 Wellman Road in Anza. The traditional Mexican taco sales will be held from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. every Saturday, weather permitting.

For more information or directions, please visit www. facebook.com/profile. php?id=100089950778974.

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

your mouth or thoughts run to judgment, remember that you are to “Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.”

If you follow Jesus, slander has no place in your life. Instead, you are to “be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

(Ephesians 4:31-32) When you treat others this way, you’re acting how God wants you to act as his representative.

But “If you claim to be religious but don’t control your tongue, you are fooling yourself, and your religion is worthless.” (James 1:26)

Don’t let your faith be worthless. Instead, “be devoted

to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” (Romans 12:10)

When you devote yourself to loving others, even those people who annoy you and get under your skin, you’re acting like Jesus. He loved you when you were seriously unlovable. He loved you to his death.

How much more should you love others? I think we all have some work to do on this one. But with God’s help, we can do it.

Zachary Elliott is the lead pastor of Fusion Christian Church in Temecula. For more information, visit www.fusionchristianchurch. com, www.encouragementtoday. tv or find them on Instagram.

Anza Valley Outlook/Shannon Aanestad photo

Coaches teach techniques and the rules of the game, as well as act as mentors to the players involved in Hamilton High School baseball.

Hungry people flock to the Anza Apostolic Church’s traditional Mexican taco sale Saturday, March 18. Anza Valley Outlook/Adrian Campos photos

Authentic fare is offered at the Anza Apostolic Church traditional Mexican taco sale.

SALE from page D-1

Zachary Elliott

Special to Valley News

I wonder how often I’ve rolled my eyes at someone behind their back or called them an

Nationwide recall of frozen strawberries issued after Hep A outbreak

NTD News Special to the Valley News

A nationwide recall was issued by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on March 17. The recall affects frozen strawberries that are potentially linked to a Hepatitis A outbreak and have been sold across various retailers.

According to the Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention, a possible link was established after five cases related to an outbreak of Hepatitis A have been reported since March 13. In all cases, the affected individuals reportedly consumed frozen organic strawberries.

The reports of illnesses range from Nov. 24 to Dec. 17, 2022. Although no deaths have been reported, two people were hospitalized, according to the CDC.

The affected strawberries were distributed by California Splendor and Scenic Fruit Company of Gresham, Oregon, under various brand names in stores, including Costco, Aldi, KeHE, Vital Choice Seafood, and PCC Community Markets. A tropical fruit blend sold at Trader Joe’s is also subject to the recall.

Although the Hepatitis A virus has not been detected on the products, the company and the FDA issued the recall as a precautionary measure following the reports to the CDC. Scenic Fruit Company and

the FDA have cautioned consumers not to eat the strawberries if they have them in their freezer.

“Although Hepatitis A has not been detected on this product, out of an abundance of caution, consumers should stop consuming the product and return it to their local store for a refund. The company has ceased the production and distribution of the product as FDA and the company continue their investigation as to what caused the problem,” the FDA stated on its website. California Splendor and some of the other associated retailers also issued statements.

“California Splendor Inc., in cooperation with the FDA, is voluntarily recalling select lot codes of this product due to an outbreak of Hepatitis A illnesses. Although Hepatitis A has not been detected in this product, out of an abundance of caution, consumers should stop consuming the food and return it to their local Costco for a full refund.”

“According to the latest information we have, there are no reported illnesses related to the recalled product. No other ALDI products are affected by this recall.”

“No illnesses have been reported to date, and all potentially affected product has been removed from sale and destroyed. If you purchased any Organic Tropical Fruit Blend, please do not eat it. We urge you to discard the product or return it to

any Trader Joe’s for a full refund,”

Trader Joe’s posted.

An investigation into the cause of the outbreak and how it could have contaminated the affected products is underway.

According to the FDA, the current outbreak may be linked to a previous recall by California Splendor in February. The company voluntarily recalled specific packs of 4-pound bags of Kirkland

Signature Frozen Organic Whole Strawberries sold at Costco stores in Los Angeles, San Diego and Hawaii.

The possible link was established as the current strain of Hepatitis and the previous strain are genetically identical, making the previously imported strawberries a likely source.

The expiration dates of the affected strawberries range from April 25, 2024, to Nov. 20, 2024, and were across multiple states.

Simply Nature Organic

Strawberries: 24 oz. size; UPC: 4099100256222; Best by date: 6/14/2024. Sold in Aldi stores in Arizona, Arkansas, California, Illinois, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Dakota, South Dakota, Ohio and Wisconsin. Vital Choice Organic St rawberries: 16 oz. size; UPC: 834297005024; Best by date: 5/20/2024. Sold in Washington. Kirkland Signature Organic

A nationwide recall affects frozen strawberries that are potentially linked to a Hepatitis A outbreak and have been sold across various retailers. Valley News/Courtesy photo

Strawberries: 4 lbs. size; UPC: 96619140404; Best by date:10/8/2024. They were sold in Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Utah and Washington.

Made With Organic Strawberries: 10 oz. size; UPC: 814343021390; Best by date: 11/20/2024. Sold in Illinois and Maryland.

PCC Community Markets Organic

Strawberries: 32 oz. size; UPC: 22827109469; Best by date:

10/29/2024. Sold in Washington.

Trader Joe’s Organic Tropical Fruit Blend Pineapple, Bananas, Strawberries and Mango: 16 oz. size; UPC: 00511919; Best by dates: 04/25/24, 05/12/24, 05/23/24, 05/30/24, 06/07/24. Sold nationwide. Hepatitis A is a contagious liver

disease that results from exposure to the Hepatitis A virus. Symptoms can range from short-term and mild to severe, lasting several months. In some rare cases, those with pre-existing conditions or who are immune-compromised could experience liver failure.

According to the FDA, infection typically occurs within 15 to 50 days of ingesting contaminated food or water. Symptoms include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, jaundice, dark urine and pale stool.

Consumers may contact Scenic Fruit via email at customer. service@scenicfruit.com with any questions.

From NTD News.

FBI, DOJ investigating TikTok over surveillance of Americans

Laurel Duggan

Daily Caller News Foundation

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Justice are investigating Chinese company ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, for surveilling Americans, according to Forbes.

The DOJ Fraud Section and the Office of the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia subpoenaed information from the

company about its employees’ efforts to access the location and other private information of American journalists through TikTok, Forbes reported, citing an anonymous source. The FBI is conducting interviews on the same subject.

ByteDance employees used TikTok data last year to track the location of journalists who were reporting on the company and gained access to their IP

addresses in an attempt to see if they had been in the same location as ByteDance employees. The company has acknowledged the surveillance and condemned the employees responsible for it.

“We have strongly condemned the actions of the individuals found to have been involved, and they are no longer employed at ByteDance. Our internal investigation is still ongoing, and we will cooperate with any official investigations

OPINION

when brought to us,” a spokesman told Forbes.

TikTok previously pledged to spend $1.5 billion storing Americans’ data in the U.S. with an American team overseen by the U.S. government in order to allow its continued ownership by ByteDance, but ByteDance’s admission that its employees surveilled American journalists contradicted promises it had made to the government as part of that

plan, according to Forbes. TikTok is considering cutting ties with ByteDance over national security concerns about its ties with the Chinese Communist Party in order to continue operating in the U.S. TikTok, ByteDance, the DOJ and the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District for Virginia did not respond to the Daily Caller News Foundation’s requests for comment. The FBI declined to comment.

Editor’s Note: Opinions do not necessarily reflect the views of the Valley News & Anza Valley Outlook staff. We invite opinions on all sides of an issue. If you have an opinion, please send it as an e-mail to valleyeditor@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 & Anza Valley Outlook reserves the right to edit letters as necessary to fit the publication’s format.

Federal judge delivers major setback to Biden admin in pivotal censorship case

Harold Hutchison

Daily Caller News Foundation

A federal judge ruled against the Biden administration’s efforts to dismiss a case involving online censorship Monday, March 20, saying that the states of Missouri and Louisiana had “plausibly alleged” First Amendment violations.

United States District Judge

Terry A. Doughty of the Western District of Louisiana denied the Biden administration’s motion to dismiss a suit brought on May 5 by Republican Attorneys

General Erik Schmitt of Missouri and Jeff Landry of Louisiana. Schmitt and Landry said the Biden administration colluded with social media companies to censor debate on multiple issues, including the 2020 presidential election and the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Plaintiffs have plausibly alleged joint action, entwinement, and/or that specific features of Defendants’ actions combined to create state action,” Doughty wrote in the ruling.

“Plaintiffs have clearly and plausibly alleged that Defendants engaged in viewpoint

Seyarto introduces legislation to prevent early criminal court dismissals

SACRAMENTO – State Sen. Kelly Seyarto, R-Murrieta, has introduced Senate Bill 453 to address the mass court dismissals of backlogged criminal cases.

Existing law guarantees criminal defendants’ right to a fair and speedy trial, and therefore certain deadlines need to be met in order for a criminal case to move forward, or it may be dismissed. While current California law allows extensions to be made in criminal cases where there is “good cause,” it does not define what “good cause” actually means. Unfortunately, this legal ambiguity has led to the release of defendants charged with violent and dangerous crimes. In Riverside County alone, over 1,000 criminal matters were dismissed in a 10week period in late 2022, including charges of attempted murder, assault with a deadly weapon, sex crimes, DUIs, child abuse and domestic violence.

SB 453 would clarify that the term “good cause” may extend to instances of insufficient courtroom and/or staff availability, a problem that has long plagued the state.

“The courts have faced an immense uphill battle since the pandemic hit, which, combined with the shortage of presiding judges, has resulted in thousands of cases being dismissed and criminals let back into our

communities,” Seyarto said. “This is dangerous and unacceptable. By clarifying the definition of ‘good cause,’ we ensure public safety and accountability, and give victims their chance for justice.”

“We have experienced thousands of case dismissals in Riverside County due to a backlog of cases from the COVID-19 pandemic,” Riverside County District Attorney Mike Hestrin said. “SB 453 will assist our prosecution efforts by extending statutory due dates for criminal proceedings when needed for good cause, without infringing on constitutional speedy trial rights. SB 453 would be a valuable law for public safety, as it furthers the goal of our state constitution to resolve cases on their merits and would help ensure that victims receive justice in court for the crimes committed against them.”

As an additional call to action, the Inland Empire Republican Caucus has extended an invitation to Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero to visit the region and witness how the Inland Empire counties are impacted by the lack of fully staffed courts. Riverside and San Bernardino counties currently need 52 judges, which is over half of the statewide gap of 98, according to the 2022 Judicial Needs Assessment by the Judicial Council.

discrimination and prior restraints. As discussed in great detail above, Plaintiffs allege a regime of censorship that targets specific viewpoints deemed mis-, dis-, or malinformation by federal officials,” Doughty added. “Because Plaintiffs allege that Defendants are targeting particular views taken by speakers on a specific subject, they have alleged a clear violation of the First Amendment, i.e., viewpoint discrimination. Moreover, Plaintiffs allege that Defendants, by placing bans, shadow-bans, and other forms of restrictions on

Localism

Douglas V. Gibbs

Constitution

Mr.

Localism is defined as local government handling the local responsibilities and revenue through locally elected public officeholders. Localism is a principle foundational feature of what became The American System. Localism is a key component in the decentralization of authority, guarding against despotic control from more centralized governmental entities, and against restrictions or mandates that may attempt to be issued by higher levels of government.

In the United States Constitution, the Federal Government has been granted no powers over local issues, leaving the discretion over local issues to local governments. When localism is properly followed, communities historically tend to operate more smoothly, successfully, and with a membership that is more active in civic duties. Local government thrives when it operates individually with no threat of overreach by another governmental body perceived.

In today’s society, controversy over issues like local law enforcement policies, local land development, internal improvement policies and activities, and school curricula agitate communities across the country. Some communities have voted

Plaintiffs’ social-media accounts, are engaged in de facto prior restraints, another clear violation of the First Amendment.”

Documents posted on Twitter by Landry included an April 14, 2021 email from White House Director of Digital Strategy Rob Flaherty to an unidentified Facebook employee, demanding the company censor Fox News host Tucker Carlson’s video about vaccines. Carlson is a co-founder of the Daily Caller and Daily Caller News Foundation.

“Since we’ve been on the phone – the top post about vaccines today

to disallow Critical Race Theory in their schools, while others have elected to rename schools named for historic figures or pull down statues and other historical markers that do not fit the narrative of the loudest protest group pounding their fists on governmental desks and daises demanding that they “get their way.”

Localism often includes democratic formats including ballot initiatives, petition drives, and town hall meetings. Issues that affect the electorate on all sides of the political aisle have spurned intense interest in local government, largely because in the modern political climate, voters realize that local politics can profoundly affect one’s immediate quality of life.

More important than individual local votes and cultural trends is a concept often forgotten or ignored as an archaic and obscure aspect of American political culture.

Localism has a crucial effect on the culture, and the other components of the American System, because politics resides downstream from the culture.

Localism serves as a critical indicator regarding where the culture might reside on the scale as compared to The Laws of Nature and of Nature’s God (Rule of Law, as presented by the Declaration of Independence). In short, while we scream for our representatives to operate in favor of our political

is [T]ucker Carlson saying they don’t work. Yesterday it was Tomi Lehren [sic] saying she won’t take one,” Flaherty wrote to the Facebook employee, according to the email released by Landry. “This is exactly why I want to know what ‘Reduction’ actually looks like – if ‘reduction’ means ‘pumping our most vaccine-hesitant audience with [T]ucker Carlson saying it doesn’t work’ then… I’m not sure it’s reduction!”

The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment from the DCNF.

demands, the primary duty of officeholders, whether they be local, or members of other governmental bodies, is to serve the rule of law.

The rule of law is often interpreted in a manner that is tied to the culture, which is driven by local policies and tendencies. The whims of culture can have an incredibly powerful effect on the grand scheme of things.

Officeholders begin their careers at the local level, trained by the local culture, and guided by local influences. If the culture has abandoned the rule of law as prescribed by virtuous ideals, then the lack of ethical and upright standards will simply multiply as that official moves up through the levels of government.

A virtuous cultural foundation at the local level ensures a better opportunity for a virtuous government at higher levels. Corruption, deceit, and viciousness in our culture and local governmental offices leads to a corrupt, deceitful, and despotic government at the upper levels.

Localism is the foundation from which our entire culture and political system begins. A firm foundation provides a firm culture and government. A shaky foundation leaves all other parts of the American System at risk to collapse should the culture falter, and the government abandon the rule of law.

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