Valley News - July 14, 2023

Council upholds recommendation to deny application for new massage business

Tony Ault Staff Writer

The Menifee City Council, after hearing an appeal from a local massage parlor owner to open his business in the city, upheld a finance department director and police department decision to deny it at the regular Wednesday, April 5, meeting.

Deadly wreck in Menifee likely result of intoxicated driver

City News Service

Special to the Valley News

A rollover crash at a Menifee intersection that killed a passenger, severely injured the driver, and caused another passenger to be ejected onto the roadway was likely the result of drunken driving, authorities said.

Valley Restart expands shelter space

HEMET – Valley Restart Shelter announced the expansion of their shelter through the addition of six brand-new Pallet Houses. These shelter houses will add to their current shelter space and provide temporary housing of 30-90 days to homeless seniors (priority), veterans and other homeless individuals currently looking for long term housing opportunities.

Soboba Fire Explorers earn second state certification

Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians Special to the Valley News

The seven members of the Soboba Fire Explorers recently earned their certification for completing a 24-hour long vehicle extrication

Tony Ault Staff Writer

course, which included two 10hour days of hands-on instruction. This is the second certification they have had the opportunity to earn since the inception of the program about a year ago. Most of the current Explorers, who range

in age from 13 to 18, have been enrolled since it began.

Soboba Fire Explorers

Abigail Arres, Kuamai Banks, Levi Herrera, Ronnie Morillo, Wayne Nelson, Raya Salgado, Rhianna Salgado and Daniel

Wall That Heals’ brings

“The Wall That Heals” brought many veterans and local families who lost their loved ones in the Vietnam War to see the names on the memorial at the Miller-Jones Menifee Memorial Park and Mortuary, April 5-9. There were many tears shed and hugs made for the lost Vietnam War soldiers’ families and friends.

For many Vietnam War veterans, the time at the Wall brought back many memories of their fellow soldiers and Marines who lost their lives in the long conflict. Many found solace knowing their fallen friends would always be remembered on the Wall with the respect that some from former generations did not bestow. One Vietnam vet at the Wall remembered when he came back from the war, he dared not wear his uniform or

see WALL, page A-4

to

Valdez Jr. worked with training Capt. Howard Maxcy Jr. and lead instructor Capt. Curtis Carter to complete approximately four hours of classroom instruction

see EXPLORERS, page A-2

Vandalism at Hamilton Elementary School leads to

criminal

investigation

Editor’s note: The accompanying photographs contain language or imagery that may upset or offend some people.

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

Grafitti vandalism discovered at Hamilton Elementary School in Anza last week has lead to a criminal investigation by the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department. The vandalism consisted of racist symbols and words, with

see VANDALISM, page D-5

Brody Owens uses a Holmatro hydraulic spreader to stretch the metal frame of a wrecked car to help gain safe access to the passenger/patient. Valley News/Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians photo

‘The

a peace

many Vietnam War veterans and families in Menifee

Valley News/Shane Gibson photo

Guests view the names of military service men and the 8 service women’s names on The Wall That Heals Vietnam War traveling memorial during its exhibit at Miller Jones Menifee Memorial Park.

Menifee City Council upholds recommendation to deny an application for a new massage business in the city

Tony Ault Staff Writer

The Menifee City Council, after hearing an appeal from a local massage parlor owner to open his business in the city, upheld a finance department director and police department decision to deny it at the regular Wednesday, April 5, meeting.

It was somewhat of an emotional appeal by the massage parlor owner’s wife to overrule the commission and police department recommendations for denial on the grounds of past businesses alleged illegal activities and business practices in other cities. In the past the council, commission and police department approved other massage businesses in the city as no evidence of illegal activities and application falsifications were found in background checks and fingerprinting required of those applicants.

Businesses like massage parlors, drug sales and other potentially questionable companies must

undergo fingerprinting and background checks by city departments as required by Menifee city ordinances before their approval for opening in the interest of public safety and health.

The appeal was filed by the applicant/appellant Yihai Ace Inc., dba Happy Seven, filed by representative Fangkai Jiang, which appeals the deputy finance director’s Dec. 2, 2022, denial of a business license application for a massage business at 27701 Scott Road, Suite 204, in Menifee. A second revised application was also made and denied.

The massage business owner and his wife, through an interpreter, in their personal appeal to the council said since they did not speak English they still did their best to fill out the application and to fulfill its requirements, arguing the background check made by the city was based on hearsay by a client on a webpage dissatisfied with their massage efforts and an arrest for prostitution that was reduced to a simple misdemeanor for disturb-

ing the peace in another city where they have a massage business.

The appellant’s wife, almost in tears, said she hoped the council would approve of their business since they had already spent almost all her life savings, $150,000 on refurbishing the location of their hoped-for business on Scott Road.

Menifee police Chief Chris Karrer presented the council with copies of an arrest sheet showing the wife of the appellant was initially arrested for prostitution in Chula Vista by an undercover officer that was later reduced to a simple disturbing the public misdemeanor and other information about the case leading up to the arrest. The police report details were redacted so the public could not see the details on the report at the meeting while the council could see them.

The finance director said the appellant had lied about some other information on the two applications he made leading to the denial. The appellant has since filed a lawsuit against the city in the case.

The council did not have a discussion after the appeal was made to uphold the massage business denial.

The council approved and authorize the city manager to execute a professional services agreement with Dokken Engineering for a feasibility study of the Salt Creek Trail construction and maintenance in the amount not to exceed of $141,735; and adopt a budget amendment resolution authorizing the appropriation of expenditures in the amount of $41,735 from available Community Services Department operating funds.

The council in other business unanimously approved the latest housing development report to the state Housing Unit Development code with some comments about how unfair the state was required for the number of low income housing units required in smaller cities without any compensation offered for its implementation and the threat of high state penalties.

The staff was asked by the council to come back with some

type of city enterprise zone overlay for preferred new businesses and the possible incentives for those hoped for business openings. It was agreed by the council the enterprise zone overlays would not be without the approval of the property owner and no particular type businesses be forced upon them.

The possibility of the council designating historic areas of the city was also discussed and the possible ramifications to property owners if they were designated national historical sites, Again it was decided such a designation would not be made without the property owners’ full consent, but the council encouraged those property owners to seek some of their property as historical.

The Menifee council approved 10 consent items without discussion during the meeting.

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

Police: Deadly wreck in Menifee likely result of intoxicated driver

City News Service

Special to the Valley News

A rollover crash at a Menifee intersection that killed a passenger, severely injured the driver, and caused another passenger to be ejected onto the roadway was likely the result of drunken driving, authorities said.

The deadly wreck happened just after 1 a.m. Saturday, April 8 at Goldenrod Avenue and Goetz Road, according to the Menifee Police Department.

Sgt. Matthew Bloch said a man at the wheel of a Cadillac CTS was going southbound on Goetz and had just reached Goldenrod when he lost control and struck a curb.

“The collision caused the vehicle to become airborne and come to rest approximately 100 yards south of the original point of impact,” Bloch said.

He said that a teenager in the backseat was thrown from the Cadillac, tumbling onto the roadway, suffering various non-lifethreatening injuries. The youth’s identity was not disclosed.

The front-seat passenger, identified only as a 20-year-old Menifee man, suffered massive physical

Menifee PD focuses on distracted driving enforcement

April is Distracted Driving

Awareness Month and on April 20 the Menifee Police Department will be actively looking for drivers in violation of the state’s hands-free cell phone law.

“Holding your phone and using it while driving is not only dangerous, but also illegal,” Chief Chris Karrer said. “Before starting the car, silence your phone or put it in the glove box, trunk or back seat. Anywhere you can’t reach.”

According to the 2022 California Statewide Public Opinion Survey, nearly 72% of drivers surveyed said that distracted driving because of texting was their biggest safety concern. In 2021, the California Highway Patrol issued nearly 56,000 citations for distracted driving.

Under current law, drivers are not allowed to hold a phone or electronic communications device while operating a vehicle. This includes talking, texting or using an app. Using a handheld cell phone while driving is punishable by a fine. Violating the hands-free law for a second time within 36 months of a prior conviction for the same offense will result in a point being added to a driver’s record.

If you have an important phone call, text, email, or in a situation with other distractions, pull over to a safe parking spot. Other distractions can be eating, grooming, reaching for something that fell on the floor, putting on or taking off clothing, talking with passengers, or children in the back seat.

Funding for distracted driving enforcement is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

trauma and was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics, according to the sergeant.

The driver, identified only as a Menifee man, suffered major inju-

ries and was taken with the teen to a regional trauma center for treatment. He’s expected to survive.

“Further investigation at the hospital revealed the driver may

have been under the influence of alcohol,” Bloch said. “The collision is being investigated as a DUI. Speed is also believed to be a factor.”

Anyone with information was asked to contact the Menifee police Traffic Bureau at 951-7231690.

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.

Stops’ program may return to Murrieta during the winter holidays

Tony Ault Staff Writer

The return of the traditional Santa in the City events over the winter holidays was discussed at the Tuesday, April 4, regular Murrieta City Council meeting with further discussions to come.

The Santa in the City event including the visits by Santa Claus by fire trucks and trailers with singing choirs was discontinued during the coronavirus pandemic and has not returned, much to the disappointment of many residents. Councilmember Ron Holliday brought the question to the council of returning the events and the holiday tradition again with some modifications.

It was a receive and file item on the night’s agenda that also included a discussion on sending out more requests for information to bring more private entertainment events to the city using the Town Square Amphitheater.

Out of the various Santa in the City events, Holliday said it was really the “Santa Stops” event he sought discussion about. He found on a Facebook page “Bring Santa Stops Back,” residents talking about ways to bring the Santa Stops event back and discussion on how to accomplish it.

“I agree with them 100%,” he said.

And he joined them, reaching out to some nonprofit groups asking if they would be able to provide transportation and choirs for the event. He said he believed the council should put some staff time to put this event on again and move it forward.

Several residents in a public comment portion of the discussion said they too would like to see the events come back into the city as it was a unique tradition in the city that should be continued. One said it was especially important because residents at the Santa Stops could give non-perishable food to the city’s fire department to distribute it to those in need during the holidays. They saw it as a reason to better “connect with the community.”

“I would love to see this project continue, even though we have grown,” Council member Lori Stone said.

“I would firmly support this, especially for the moms and dads out there,” Council member Jon Levell said.

Brian Ambrose, director of Murrieta’s Community Services, responded to a question by Council member Cindy Warren. He said the department could put the program back together by December if so required by the council; however, he said the city would have to buy three new trailers since those used

before were out of service. The pandemic was not the only thing that stopped the Santa Stops program when asked about its cancellation by Mayor Lisa DeForest, he said.

Ambrose said there was a lack of volunteers that needed background checks via Live Scan, which took time, and there was not enough staff at the police department where the background checks are done.

The city would have to replace the three trailers that were “decrepit” along with purchasing new audio equipment.

City Manager Kim Summers said it was not COVID-19 alone that caused her to cancel the program because the “program had been creeping along for years,” and the staff was becoming more and more involved in keeping up with the city’s growth and the time available needed to continue the program. She indicated that if the council wants to bring the program back it would need to provide more temporary staff and equipment. “It just comes down to money,” said Summers; Holliday said he would be willing to help bring the Santa Stops back without the trailers and equipment and have the council members pa rticipate in its visits but still would need some staff time from the police department.

Ambrose said the cost would

require about $100,000 to start it again.

The council asked the staff to return with some costs and needs to restart the program by December to be reviewed by the council again and possibly budgeted. Discussion moved on to the use of the Town Square Amphitheater by private entertainment firms, the number of people it would reach, the type of entertainment, parking and public safety needs. Any private event in the amphitheater would not cancel any regular city events held at the facility that are free to the residents.

A RFI was sent out asking for firms who might be interested in sponsoring events at the amphitheater with only one firm responding to the request that met all the use provisions specified by the city. They requested a better explanation of what the city would expect. Since then, the staf f has been refining the city requirements that would allow events for only up to 2,500 spectators. The firm would provide needed transportation and public safety guarantees and other requirements with liability and clean up assurances under the city’s use and operation plan.

The council was introduced to the draft use and operations plan for the amphitheater, reviewed by a city council ad hoc subcommittee.

comforting him, The Wall That Heals was even more important to him since he was in a wheelchair and despite two earlier visits to Washington DC, he never got to see the original wall because of his immobility.

The plan would be in place for 18 months to see how well it works. The council voiced its approval for the more detailed plan and suggested that the review of the plan be extended for a 24 month period. They also suggested with the more detailed use and operation plan for the amphitheater private events, that another RFI be sent out to any other interested private special event management firms in the hope of receiving more proposals to choose from. The draft was approved by the council with the staff to return to the council with the possible use fees and RFI responses.

In other business, the council proclaimed it to be “Donate for Life” month by highlighting the importance of the Department of Motor Vehicles organ donation option listed on drivers licenses in case of accidental death.

They approved nine consent items recorded and discussed at earlier meetings and gave their approval for a resolution supporting the “Oak View Ranch, Murrieta Apartments Phase 1, Adams Avenue Affordable Housing Project” for $40 million in financing. The city has no liability in the payment of the bonds by the developer.

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

for the freedom of the Vietnamese people and securing America.

WALL from page A-1

he would have to face protestors’

taunts and jeers.

Dennis Blessman was an Air Force veteran who was in Vietnam from 1967 to 1968 at Bien Hoa Air Base, training South Vietnamese pilots. He said he saw two of his ground crew chiefs-in-training

USMC Vietnam veteran Marcello Gonzalez is consoled while getting emotional over his fallen comrades at The Wall That Heals Vietnam War traveling memorial. Valley News/Shane Gibson photos

killed in a single mortar explosion. Blessman said he will never forget the unfortunate incident. He is an independent volunteer for The Wall That Heals and 90 other similar memorials.

“It’s kind of a healing experience for me every time,” Blessman said. “I think the people here are very grateful for the Wall because

they will never be able to make that trip to Washington DC where the original wall is.”

His observation was supported by another Marine veteran in a wheelchair in front of the wall bowing his head in tears, remembering six of his fellow soldiers killed in his unit in Vietnam. According to several staff volunteers

At the Wall, a mother whose father had served in Vietnam, explained to her daughter that her existence is due to her grandfather who served but was lucky enough to still come back home. The young daughter, being hugged by her mother, seemed deep in thought and grateful to the men who served and died for her very existence.

Dafney Bachneiaeobo and Paul Chassey from Murrieta made a rubbing of a name on the Wall of a 17-year-old Marine, Stephen Forrest, who died less than 30 days after arriving with his unit in Vietnam. They knew the young Marine who was Chassey’s nephew. They too saw it as a healing moment.

The memorial was opened and set up by many volunteers in the Menifee community at the MillerJones Menifee Memorial Park and Mortuary, who hosted the exhibit. The memorial wall and Education Center were open under the lights 24 hours a day and free to the public until Sunday afternoon, April 9, when it was taken down and stored in a 53-foot trailer, ready to travel to its next appearance.

The Wall That Heals honors more than three million Americans who served in the U.S. Armed forces in the Vietnam War and it bears the names of the 58,281 men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in Vietnam.

Cathy Miller, site manager with The Wall That Heals veterans group traveling with Jim Knotts, president and CEO of the threequarter size replica traveling memorial, said, “This is the fourth stop in California. It has been in San Luis Obispo, Citrus Heights, Hawaiian Gardens and now Menifee.We send messages back to our teams in D.C. to see how everything is going. We just sent them a picture of all the volunteers putting up the Wall. Wow! These volunteers… they are second to none.”

She said when people come to visit The Wall That Heals, the Education Center provides pencils and paper they can use to rub the names of their fallen relatives or fellow soldiers who died fighting

The replica is 375 feet in length and stands 7.5 feet high at its tallest point. Visitors can experience the Wall rising above them as they walk toward the apex, a key feature of the design of the original Wall in Washington D.C.

The mobile Education Center exhibit includes digital photo displays of “Hometown Heroes,” service members whose names are on the Wall that list their home of record within the area of the selected hosting city; digital photo displays of Vietnam veterans from the local area honored through VVMF’s In Memory program which honors veterans who returned home from Vietnam and later died; video displays that teach about the history and impact of The Wall; educational exhibits told through items representative of those left at The Wall in D.C.; a replica of the In Memory plaque; a map of Vietnam and a chronological overview of the Vietnam War. The exhibits tell the story of the Vietnam War, The Wall, and the era surrounding the conflict, and are designed to put American experiences in Vietnam in a historical and cultural context.

The 2023 national The Wall That Heals tour is generously sponsored by USAA. Through a partnership with the Truckload Carriers Association, the trucking industry and Blue Beacon, the exhibit is able to travel across the country. The local exhibit in Menifee was a coordinated partnership between MillerJones Menifee Memorial Park and Mortuary, the City of Menifee and Menifee VFW Post 1956.

Since its debut in 1996, the exhibit has been on display in more than 700 U.S. communities including Temecula, in addition to an April 1999 tour of the Four Provinces of Ireland and a visit to Canada in 2005. It is the last stop in California with the next stop in Texas.

The Wall That Heals is a program of VVMF, the nonprofit organization that built the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. in 1982. The Wall That Heals is the only traveling exhibit affiliated with The Wall in Washington, D.C. Two VVMF staff members lead volunteers on site to educate visitors and students and ensure the reflective atmosphere of The Wall.

‘Santa

US Navy Vietnam veteran James Coulston points at the name of a loved one on The Wall That Heals Vietnam War traveling memorial during its exhibit at Miller Jones Menifee Memorial Park, April 8.

April 14 – 20, 2023

Soboba Switch charity event scores a win for all involved

Soboba Band of Luiseño

Indians

Special to the Valley News

Despite rainfall rendering the Soboba Springs Golf Course unusable for the 11th annual Soboba Charity Golf Tournament, most players who had signed up to support the event were not disappointed. Thanks to some great teamwork, the Soboba Switch Cornhole Tournament was created as an indoor alternative.

This year’s golf tournament director Jason Cozart, who is also the assistant general manager of the Soboba Casino Resort, said he was fortunate to have recently met William Howell, co-owner of Pitch Bags and part of the American Cornhole Organization and the West Coast Conference Commissioner. Howell is a certified official, a former professional player and a broadcaster. His company, Left Coast Cornhole, is an affiliate of the ACO.

The tournament was run with a software called Scoreholio. Howell, who began organizing cornhole tournaments locally in 2013, said he participates or organizes about 100 events annually. For the Soboba Switch tournament, he served as director and provided the Pitch Bags.

“In the past 10 years, I’ve run about 1,500 tournaments,” Howell said. “I really didn’t have any concerns. I only wanted to provide the best service possible for such a prestigious event. The Tribe took a big chance on hiring me at the last minute, and I wanted to earn their respect.”

He explained that the game is similar to horseshoes except it utilizes wooden boxes called cornhole platforms and corn bags instead of horseshoes and metal stakes. Contestants take turns pitching their corn bags at the cornhole platform until a contestant reaches the score of 21 points. A corn bag in the hole scores three points, while one on the platform scores one point.

Howell said scoring can be swift and the lead may change hands several times in a match before the winner is decided. The game is generally played tournament style with an individual or team being named the champion at the end of the tournament.

Cozart said in the days leading up to the tournament, they were obviously worried about finding a group or individual with access to enough pro-style bags and boards, as well as the response from those who have grown to love the annual golf tournament.

“The one thing I wasn’t worried about was our team’s ability to adapt and overcome,” he said. “Our SCR staff, Soboba Tribal staff, foundation and council members, along with all of our volunteers, once again showcased their resourcefulness and resiliency.”

Although some of the players who had originally signed up for the golf tournament were unable to attend due to the weather or other factors, the event was still a huge triumph. The tournament was held on seven courts indoors at the Soboba Springs Golf Course.

“I love to golf and look forward to our charity tournament each year to have fun playing with so many supporters for our local nonprofit community,” Soboba Tribal Council Vice Chair Geneva Mojado said. “So, when the heavy rains threatened our event, I was disappointed. But to see everyone on Tribal Council, the Soboba Casino Resort and the Soboba Foundation work together to find a way to move forward made me proud of the employees and leadership we have. I was thrilled to see everybody make it work and just go with the flow, no pun intended.”

Two people make up one team so there were 154 teams that played during the two-day event. Each day had a round robin (random play) with two games into a single elimination bracket. There were a total of 243 matches during the tournament, which lasted a combined total time of 10 hours. The top four teams from each day received great prizes.

“With 150 players the first day and 158 players the second day, we

had a 72% and 75% response rate respectively,” Cozart said. “That actually ended up being a pretty ideal number, ensuring we could run the event in the same or less time than it would have taken to play an entire round of tournament golf.”

And the 10 nonprofits that ben-

efited from the event were more than happy to volunteer their time at the two nights of awards banquets Tuesday and Wednesday, March 21-22.

Since they were held at the Soboba Casino Resort Event Center, they were not affected by the inclement weather. And representatives from

Soboba Switch Cornhole Tournament, March 21-22, was a last-minute alternative to the 11th annual Soboba Charity Golf Tournament. said. “We were all on board and so amazed by the vision he had and the dedication of his team to pull it off. The nonprofits were so grateful that we were able to pivot so they could still benefit from our amazing participants and sponsors, who blessed us with their support despite the change of plans.”

each of the organizations were on hand to receive a $10,000 check to help them fulfill a dream project or program that will further their service to the community.

“When it looked as if the weather might impact our annual charity golf tournament, Jason brought us this alternate plan at an emergency meeting the morning before the first day of the tournament,” Soboba Foundation President Dondi

Nonprofits who were chosen as see CORNHOLE, page B-2

Silvas

Player reacts to a good pitch at the Soboba Switch Cornhole Tournament Tuesday, March 21.

Valley News/ Robert A. Whitehead photos

William Howell explains details to a participant in the Soboba Switch Cornhole Tournament.

Food and beverage vendors set up stations inside the Soboba Springs Golf Course and on its balconies to keep players occupied during the two days of competition.

Jason Cozart, assistant general manager of Soboba Casino Resort, welcomes guests to the Soboba Switch Cornhole Tournament awards banquet at the SCR Event Center, amid many available raffle prizes.

The Four Directions Club at San Jacinto High School is one of 10 nonprofits that received $10,000 from the 11th annual Charity Golf Tournament that was switched to a cornhole tournament due to heavy rainfall, including from left, Vince Record, Melissa Vera, club president Su’la Arviso, Geneva Mojado, club vice president Rhianna Salgado and David Pyle, superintendent of San Jacinto Unified School District.

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

April 22 – 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. 2023 Science Fair for 6th, 7th and 8th graders to showcase their creativity, inventiveness and analytical skills at our 2023 Science Fair. The fair celebrates enrichment and education in STEM in our region. Prize packages will be given to the top three finalists. Learn more and sign up here at http://bit. ly/3G4JObQ. Held at the Temecula Valley Entrepreneur’s Exchange, 43200 Business Park Drive. For questions, please contact TVE2 by email TVE2@TemeculaCA.gov or by phone at 951-506-5180.

April 29 – 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Youth Fair at Menifee’s Lazy Creek Park Recreation Center, 26480 Lazy Creek Road, in Menifee.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

April 13 – 1:30 p.m. Two bells will ring, signaling 100 years of the “Ramona” Outdoor Play at the Ramona Bowl Hacienda, Ramona Bowl Road in Hemet. Attend the informal ceremony and moment of silence for all former actors.

April 13 – 7-8:30 p.m. Enjoy a free stand-up comedy event at the Old Town Community Theater, 42051 Main St., in Temecula. The stand-up comedy workshop will teach how to get started doing stand-up comedy with professional comedians.

April 14 to May 21 – Temecula

Valley Museum reprises “Through Darkness to Light: Photographs

Along the Underground Railroad” at the Temecula Valley Museum, 28314 Mercedes St., in Temecula. The photos recall the time between 1830 and 1865 at the end of the Civil War when clandestine groups of American settlers helped fleeing slaves from the south find freedom in the north.

April 16 – March of Remembrance a Holocaust Memorial Service at the Murrieta Mesa High School Performing Arts Center, 24801 Monroe Ave., Murrieta. Support the Jewish people. Speakers from Israel and Murrieta city officials. March sign ups at 1 p.m. For information contact HRFV at 855-955-5017 or email janflournoy@gmail.com

April 17 – 6-7:30 p.m. Blackout

Poetry will be held at the Ronald H. Roberts Temecula Public Library, 30600 Pauba Road, in Temecula, celebrating Library Month and Poetry Month. Come for a night of poetry, communion and conversation and share poetry and support the arts in the community. Expert and amateur poets are welcome.

April 19 – 4:30 p.m.Youth Innovators Program is a high school student-run committee that plans and hosts community-based youth programs. Youth Innovators will meet on April 19 and April 26, 43200 Business Park Drive, Temecula. Interested in joining? Complete your application at http:// bit.ly/42QSyvQ . For questions

benefactors this year are the 7G Foundation, Boxing for Christ, Carol’s Kitchen, EEK Fitness, Four Directions Club, Friends of ValleyWide Foundation, Grandfathers for Golf, Inter-Tribal Sports, Oak Grove Center and the San Jacinto Mountain Bike Team.

Vivanco said the dynamics were different for this event, but participants were complementary to the changes.

“I talked to people who were unsure about coming out in the bad weather but when they heard we were having a Cornhole Tournament, they were on their way,” Vivanco said. “Many said it turned out to be a great way for them to network.”

He added that although this is Soboba’s first cornhole tournament, it certainly won’t be the last.

“We were happy that we were able to turn this into a different type of opportunity for everyone,” Vivanco said.

One of those players was Keith Kauffman, a project executive with general contractors C.W. Driver, a company that has been a major sponsor of the charity golf tournament for many years. Although he wasn’t sure how the switch in sports would turn out, he said it was a lot of fun with many more opportuni-

contact TVE2 by email TVE2@ TemeculaCA.gov, or by phone at 951- 506-5180.

April 20-21, 27-28 – 7 p.m.

April 22 & 29 – 2 p.m. Join the drama students of Chaparral High School for their first theater performance of the school year. “Anything Goes” will be performed at the newly remodeled Performing Arts Center, 26215 Nicolas Road in Temecula.

April 22 – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 10th annual Mottes Big Barn and Classic Motorcycle Show at the Motte Historical Museum, 23820 Highway 74 (Florida Ave.), Menifee. Free and open to the public. Many classic cars and motorcycles, entertainment and food.

April 22 – 7 a.m. to noon.

Menifee’s 11th annual event, Better Together & Earth Day, will be hosted at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 29725 Bradley Road, in Menifee. This event gives residents and volunteers the opportunity to come together to help beautify Menifee. Volunteers and registration needed; visit www.cityofmenifee. us/MBTvolunteer. Many projects are available and will include Habitat for Humanity senior home revitalization.

April 22 – 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Earth Day and Plant Trade. This free family event will feature speakers, vendors and food stalls. At the Plant Trade, participants can trade their plants, seeds, knowledge or tools with event partners “Plant Traders Inland Empire.”

This year’s event also includes a local electric vehicle showcase. Event takes place at Memorial Way, outside of the back entrance to the Murrieta Public Library, 8 Town Square, Murrieta.

April 22-May 7 – The “Ramona” Outdoor Play will be performed April 22-23, 29-30 and May 6-7. A classic love story of life in early California during the 1850s, Ramona authentically depicts the cultural diversity of emerging settlers and native peoples at the Ramona Bowl and Museum, 27400 Ramona Bowl Road, in Hemet. Tickets are $18$44. For more information, call 951-658-3111 or email Ramona@ Ramonabowl.com

April 29 – 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The 11th annual Menifee Arts Showcase at Menifee Countryside Marketplace, I-215 and Newport Road. The free event features an “Art Walk” along the storefronts at the retail center where local artists display and sell their artwork. Live performances will be offered at three sound stages. For more information, www.artscouncilmenifee.org.

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, at 951-672-6777 or businesslicensing@cityofmenifee.us

ONGOING – Riverside Transportation Commission is offering Park and Ride lots to connect with carpools, vanpools and transit sys-

tems in Beaumont at 600 E. Sixth Street, in San Jacinto at 501 S. San Jacinto Avenue and in Temecula at Grace Presbyterian Church, 31143 Nicolas Road, open from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. but not on weekends.

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

ONGOING – If you know a homebound older adult, resources in Menifee are available, including grab-and-go, cooked and frozen food for pickup. Courtesy Pantry items and meals delivered with no contact. Three days of emergency food can be delivered immediately or restaurant meal delivery for those who don’t qualify for food assistance programs. Call 800510-2020 for help.

ONGOING – The Riverside County COVID-19 Business Assistance Grant Program is accepting online applications for business grants up to $10,000 at www.rivercobizhelp.org that can be used for employee retention, working capital, personal protective equipment purchases, rent or mortgage payments and paying vendor notices. Eligible businesses, including nonprofits, must be in Riverside County, with a minimum of one but less than 50 employees and operating for at least one year since March 1. For more information, call Riverside County Business and Community Services at 951-955-0493.

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

ONGOING – 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

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

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

WORKSHOPS, MEETINGS,

NOTICES

April 14 – The California State Fair Home Wine Competition invites people seeking to show-

case their winemaking skills and receive professional feedback join the home winemaking contest.

To enter, contact State@calexpo. com The fair will be held in Sacramento, July 14-30, at 1600 Exposition Blvd.

April 14 to May 5 – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dorland Mountain Arts Associated Artists will exhibit at the Dorland Community Arts Center, 36701 Highway 79/S. Temecula Parkway, in Temecula.

April 14-20 – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

a.r.t.e.r.y.ʼs 2023 The Eclipse Project – Flight presented at the Mt. San Jacinto College Art Gallery. California Family Life Center and Worth Visual Arts present the exhibition made up of hundreds of images of birds in flight at the MSJC Art Gallery, 1499 N. State St. Building 1400, San Jacinto.

April 22 – 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 pm. Attend the Nature Education Resource Forum at the Dove Ranch on the Santa Rosa Plateau in La Cresta. Reservations are required. For those engaged in nature, science and environmental education programs and projects from public, private, nonprofit, home school and farm school teachers and providers. Tickets are $25, including continental breakfast, lunch and resource materials. Space is limited; visit http://NatureEduForum. eventbrite.com.

April 22 – 7-11 p.m. Great Gatsby Casino Night will be presented by the Knights of Columbus at 29976 Technology Drive in Murrieta. Tickets are $100 for drinks, casino play and best dress prizes. Contact tinyural.com/3wrrp889 or Michael Bacho at 760-525-2780.

April 29 – 8:30 a.m. Attend the Run for Life colon cancer awareness, family-friendly run/walk event at Temecula Valley High School, 31555 Rancho Vista Road, in Temecula. By pledging a fixed amount of money for each lap you walk or run – 5K/3.1 mile max or 12 laps around the track – all money raised will be donated to the California Colorectal Cancer Coalition. Participants must register online.

April 29 – 6 p.m. The 44th Menifee Chamber Awards Gala: Unlock the Secret Garden will be held at the Fairfield Inn, 30140 Town Center Drive, in Menifee. The event will unveil the winners of the chamber’s business and ambassador awards, along with other secrets, mysteries and surprises throughout the interactive evening. Register for seats and all sponsorships, except the Bar Sponsorship, by email info@ menifeevalleychamber.com or by calling 951- 672-1991 for tickets. Dress chic or black tie.

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

packaging events at different community locations in the area. For drop-off locations and packaging locations, visit www.milvet.org/ military-care-packages.

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

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

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

ONGOING – 10-11:30 a.m.

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

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

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

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

org

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

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

ties for networking.

“I played in the tournament and the other half of my team won the grand prize (on the first day); everything turned out amazing,” Kauffman said.

Cozart said, “I loved the fact that I was able to connect with everyone at the event, rather than my own foursome and maybe a couple oth-

ers, which is more typical of golf tournaments. You always have the chance to catch up at the banquet and during registration pre-round, but this event provided an extended opportunity to meet with old and new friends alike.”

Howell said that many of the participants had not played cornhole before so he made it a point to

make himself available the entire time so everyone felt comfortable and had fun.

“Personally, this is the greatest tournament that I’ve ever experienced on a charitable level,” he said. “My cheeks hurt from smiling after the first day. I met so many great people that had such a blast. There were zero complaints, and

everyone was so gracious.”

For more information on cornhole tournaments, visit http://www. Americancornhole.com or contact William Howell at 951-392-4167 or pitchbags@gmail.com. He said that folks who would like to purchase corn bags can use the code “PITCHACO” at http://www.pitchbags.com for a big discount.

Players vie for the win at the Soboba Switch Cornhole Tournament at the Soboba Springs Golf Course.

CORNHOLE from page B-1

Soboba Tribal Council Chair Isaiah Vivanco pitches a corn bag during the first day of action at the Soboba Switch Cornhole Tournament, an event that replaced the 11th annual Charity Golf Tournament which benefits local nonprofits. Valley News/ Robert A. Whitehead photos

Menifee’s Got Talent lineup announced

Arts Council Menifee will host its annual Menifee’s Got Talent variety show once again. On May 5, more than 20 acts will take the stage at Liberty High School to entertain the audience. The last live show was presented in 2019 due to pandemic restrictions in subsequent years.

The performers were chosen from about 40 hopefuls who were given the choice to audition in person at the Antelope-Menifee Rural Center on March 25 or submit a video online. Those selected offer variety with a capital V as singers encompass many genres from country to jazz and opera and range in age from 10 to 80-plus. A rock group will get the crowd pumped up and dancers and musicians will have them tapping their feet and swaying to the sounds.

Alphabetically, the performers are, Hannah Butler, Aryana Campos, Raymond Carpenter, Benjamin Cooper, David Davis, Emanuel Esparza, Abishay Forys, Lorena Hancock and Ballet Folklorico of Menifee, Jasmine Iliescu, Richard Ketcham, Grace Kyte and her rock band, Joseph Luna Jr., David Mallory, Angela Mona, Daniella Moroz, Gabby Nicole, Christine Park, DeAndre Pullen,

J.R. Ramos, Alicia Rinaldi, Aaron James Schaffer, Barbara Shawcroft and Audrey Woisin.

When it was first launched by the nonprofit in 2013, Menifee’s Got Talent was a competition, similar to the popular reality television shows. Current ACM President Colleen Ackerman said she initiated the change to a non-competitive variety show to more closely match the organization’s mission of “bringing the arts to Menifee and local artists to the public.”

All ages welcomed “I felt it was important to provide a place where people of all ages could showcase their unique talents,” she said. “And this is a great night out for families to come and enjoy some good, clean and fun entertainment.”

Several past MGT performers have gone on to have successful professional careers, including Chelsea Snow, Angela Mona and AnAhi Garcia-Rodriguez. Mona, now 22, will be singing at this year’s event.

Ackerman said she called on some trusted and good-hearted friends to help out with this year’s judging. Joining her were Bill Ackerman, Nicole Farrell, Johnathan Greenberg and Larry Sichter. Assisting with check-in and logistics for the onsite auditions from 9

a.m. to 3 p.m. were Gina Guilkey, Lucille Harrington and Lori Reese. Ackerman said she felt those who auditioned online might be at a disadvantage if the sound quality was not up to par. She prefers to see in-person performers to judge their stage presence as well as their talent. Each act was rated with a score from 1 to 5 for presentation, quality, pitch (if applicable) and overall quality of performance.

“They were asked to perform the selection they would do at the show so we know what to expect and can plan the flow of the program,” Ackerman said.

Ray Carpenter, 82, sang the Willie Nelson classic, “My Heroes Have Always Been Cowboys.” He accompanied himself on guitar, which he has been playing since he was 14. For a requested encore, he sang the Webb Pierce standard, “Drifting Texas Sand” to another standing ovation by the judges.

Judge Nicole Farrell, a French vocalist who also has an entertainment business specializing in karaoke, said she likes holding auditions because she feels that everyone needs a chance. She feels that online submissions are hard to judge because even though the person is probably more relaxed at home, the eye contact is not there.

Farrell was the first MGT win-

ner in 2013 when it was still a competition-based show. She said, “My heart has always been with MGT. I don’t want to compete, but I like to volunteer.”

Career interest?

Judge Larry Sichter is a stage actor who spent many years in the television production and management industry. He said with the Menifee’s Got Talent show, variety is key. “We’re interested in people that want to get into this business, that want to get the experience of doing this in front of people.

I’m proud to help people find this artistic path,” he said. “Because it’s non-competitive, the performers aren’t stressed out. It’s about entertaining; you have to think of the audience.”

Sichter added, “I prefer inperson auditions because you can get their backstory, but online is fine. I don’t mind if they audition that way as long as there are no barriers with lighting and sound so they can really show their true talent. Either way, we welcome anyone that wants to try out; this is a no judgment zone.”

Menifee Mayor Bill Zimmerman, a longtime supporter of Arts Co uncil Menifee who oversaw MGT in its earliest years, said, “This is one of my favorite an-

nual events and I’m pleased to see it happening again this year. For some, especially the younger performers, it is their first time on stage in front of a live audience. I’m grateful for Arts Council Menifee and the team effort to put on such a wonderful show.”

Menifee’s Got Talent will take place on May 5 from 7-9:30 p.m. at Liberty High School, 32255 Leon Road, Winchester. There are several ticket options available. Online presale tickets available now are discounted at $8 for adults, $5 for students with ID and for seniors 62-plus, and $25 for a family pack which covers two adults plus two children aged 6-17 from the same family. All children under 5 are free. Tickets can be purchased at the door for a slightly higher amount. For more information, www.artscouncilmenifee.org or 951-290-2781.

Arts Council Menifee is also preparing for its 11th annual Menifee Arts Showcase on April 29 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Menifee Countryside Marketplace, I-215 and Newport Road. The free event features an “Art Walk” along the storefronts at the retail center where local artists display and sell their artwork. Live performances will be offered at three sound stages.

Diane A. Rhodes Special to Valley News

Country singer Ray Carpenter auditions for the Menifee’s Got Talent variety show.

Judges responsible for selecting performers for this year’s MGT variety show are, from left, Johnathan Greenberg, Larry Sichter, Colleen Ackerman, Nicole Farrell and Bill Ackerman.

Valley News/Diane A. Rhodes photos

Aryana Campos sings in Spanish for her Menifee’s Got Talent audition at the Antelope-Menifee Rural Center on March 25.

MSJC Art Gallery, CFLC and Worth Visual Arts presents a.r.t.e.r.y.’s

2023 The Eclipse Project – Flight

SAN JACINTO – The Mt. San Jacinto College Art Gallery, California Family Life Center and Worth Visual Arts presented a.r.t.e.r.y.’s 2023 The Eclipse Project – Flight.

This exhibition marks the 18th collaboration with California Family Life Center, a.r.t.e.r.y, and Worth Visual Arts. The Eclipse Project, on display in the Art Gallery on

the MSJC San Jacinto Campus, is made up of hundreds of images of birds in flight. The artists created and carved birds symbolizing the moment in life when they felt the feeling of flight and freedom. These birds symbolize release, clarity, peace, vision and independence. These collaborative works have inspired the senior citizens and a.r.t.e.r.y mentors alike, to think about their lives in new and exciting ways. Senior artists working with youth mentors have felt a sense of rejuvenation and are inspired to share their life stories with them. Likewise, as the a.r.t.e.r.y mentors worked with seniors, it has inspired youth mentors to think beyond their current lives while motivating them to think about how they can be of service to others. We hope that their collaborative exchange has brought a sense of understanding and appreciation between generations. Together and

sharing, they can build meaningful bridges between generations and understand each other’s life stages.

This feeling of freedom is gained within the stages of an individual’s life - much like a bird’s life cycle.

Life situations, trappings and challenges in life draw not only an analogy to the bird world but symbolize the world of a confined and/or caged bird. Once the individual or bird is released the true feeling of freedom can be felt, a feeling of release, no restraints, peace.

Mentoring, art and community service are key elements to CFLCʼs a.r.t.e.r.y. Programs. CFLC and Worth Visual Arts were awarded the 2015 Americans for the Arts, National Association of Counties and Honorable Mention from the Association of Counties Arts & Culture. The Eclipse Project exhibit emphasizes mentoring skills, focused on the transference of creative energy and goals through art within

Movie review: ‘Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves’

Bob Garver

Special

Let me begin by saying that I did not go into “Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves” familiar with the source material. I certainly knew “of” the famous tabletop game and that it takes place in a world of wizards and magic, but I only knew the broadest strokes. If more education on the game would have helped me enjoy the movie more, then I’m sorry I didn’t do my homework. Then again, I see and enjoy movies based on unfamiliar source material all the time. I’ve never once bought a Marvel comic, and even with the MCU’s more subpar efforts,

I usually feel that they do a good job establishing the characters and their worlds. But I spent almost all of “Honor Among Thieves” feeling left in the dust by all the fantasy creatures, spells and rules. That feeling, combined with derivative characters and unfunny humor, made the movie a slog. We first meet Edgin, played by Chris Pine, and Holga, played by Michelle Rodriguez, in prison, which explains the “Dungeons” portion of the title. They go to a parole hearing, where Edgin fills us in on backstory as he nervously awaits a specific board member. He used to be a professional peacekeeper until he started turning to light thievery

to support his wife and daughter. His wife was killed, so he turned to heavy thievery along with Holga, aspiring sorcerer Simon, played by Justice Smith, and con artist Forge, played by Hugh Grant. The team did a risky job for witch Sofina, played by Daisy Head, that led to Edgin and Holga’s capture, though Forge was able to escape, promising to take care of Edgin’s daughter Kira, played by Chloe Coleman. The conclusion of the hearing does admittedly make for a funny gag.

Edgin and Holga reunite with Forge, now a powerful lord that basically rules the kingdom. He kept his word about protecting Kira, but has otherwise turned on his old friends, joining forces with Sofina for an upcoming scheme to create an army of the undead. Sofina tries to have Edgin and Holga eliminated, but they escape and start working on a counter-scheme to get Kira back, along with a relic that can bring back Edgin’s wife.

Edgin and Holga’s scheme requires more members on the team. Simon can do a scant little magic, which barely rises above the level of parlor tricks. Doric, played by Sophia Lillis, can transform into any animal, and single-handedly carries the best action sequence of the movie. Xenk, played by RegèJean Page, is a mighty, benevolent warrior that Edgin doesn’t trust. The movie doesn’t want to admit it, but with these three on the team, the movie barely needs Edgin and Holga. Actually, the movie doesn’t need anyone besides Doric. This movie could have been called “Doric & Dragons” and things probably would have been wrapped up much more efficiently.

The team goes through adventures where they encounter various creatures and deal with a series of obstacles and enchantments. The film falls into the trap that many fantasies do, where everything is magic, so the rules and stakes aren’t clearly defined. There are several points where the team is faced with

their communities. A.r.t.e.r.y. opens opportunities to future career paths to youth mentors, while bridging all program objectives to positive endeavors within their community. By exhibiting their artwork at the MSJC Art Gallery, youth are exposed to college as a more attainable path for their future while assimilating comfortably in a college atmosphere.

Senior and mentor introspective journals will be displayed and are a crucial part of the a.r.t.e.r.y. program. The journal entries help reveal the artists’ thoughts on their past and present as their lives change and grow beyond their homes and comfort zones.

The exhibit is on display through Thursday, April 20, at the MSJC Art Gallery, 1499 N. State St., Building 1400, in San Jacinto. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Submitted by Mt. San Jacinto College.

Valley News/Courtesy photo a challenge and Edgin will ask, “Is there a spell for that?” We don’t know magic, so the answer is strictly at the mercy of the movie’s writers or the game’s creators.

“Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves” is a perfectly average fantasy movie, dragged below average by bland characters – the ones with useful skills have no personality, and vice versa – and painful humor, especially with Simon, Justice Smith is a specialist at the sort of forced awkwardness that plagues many a movie of this era. It doesn’t make me want to take up the game

or see any more movies in this series. We’re getting a new “Guardians of the Galaxy” movie in a few weeks, hopefully that will be a better movie about supposedly loveable thieves where the self-appointed leader is an unremarkable smooth-talker played by a guy named Chris.

Grade: C-

“Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves” is rated PG-13 for fantasy action/violence and some language. Its running time is 134 minutes.

Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@ nyu.edu.

Warner Springs Wine & Art Trail brings local artists & businesses together

The Warner Springs Artisan Guild and local businesses will collaborate in presenting the Warner Springs Wine & Art Trail on May 20-21. Professional artists and talented artisans will be stationed at 10 venues along scenic Highway 79 South. Original art and handmade, one-of-a-kind crafts will be available at artists’ studios, galleries, four wineries and a craft beer emporium.

The Wine & Art Trail will showcase paintings, jewelry, woodwork, p hotography, ceramics, textiles, hand-crafted purses, artisanal bread, handmade musical instruments and more. Featured artists include painter Sacha Hope, photographer Linda Todd-Limon and scratchboard artist Heather Lara. Multimedia artist Kristen Cameron takes the unexpected to new heights like transforming a Yucca stalk into a mythical goddess or transforming a desiccated cactus pad into a fairy dress.

The event offers an opportunity to enjoy a self-guided driving tour, exploring the little-traveled, picturesque corridor between Santa Ysabel and the North boundary of San Diego county. Visitors can spend the day or weekend browsing art, viewing unique vistas, hiking beautiful trails, picnicking and sipping award-winning w ines at

boutique family wineries (Emerald Creek, Hawk Watch, Sierra Roble and Shadow Mountain) as well as craft beer at Garage 79. Mad Mike’s will be offering samples and sausage sandwiches at its Warner Springs Clubhouse. Sky Sailing will be offering tours of the Gliderport and discounts on glider rides.

“This started as an idea for a neighborhood studio tour,” oil painter Laurie Roberts said. “And wow, has it grown! We are partnering with local businesses and other SoCal art guilds to offer a bigger, better event. Together, we are creating something fun and new. People can shop for art and crafts, sip some wine or beer, have a picnic, explore the area, go hiking and see what Warner Springs has to offer. Hopefully this is something that will become an annual event.”

Mike and Lisa Schnell, owners of Hawk Watch Winery, agreed.

“As a small business in our quaint, rural community of Warner Springs, we’re delighted to be part of this amazing community and to be participating in this event. The artists in North County San Diego are incredibly talented, and we’re excited to see their work!”

Organizing the event has been a huge, grassroots, volunteer effort.

Participating artists are pulling double duty, painting event banners, sorting logistics and promoting the event. “It’s been a lot of work but it’s also been delightful to connect with creative people in the area, both artists and entrepreneurs,” metal artist Liisa Kyle said. “And we’re proud that, unlike other art shows or galleries, 100% of art sales go to the artists. The Guild isn’t taking any commission. That’s incredibly rare.”

If you would like to support local artists and businesses, the Warner Springs Wine & Art Trail offers a unique way to do so. For a map and details about the event, visit www. warnerspringsartisanguild.com/ events

About the Warner Springs Art Guild

The Warner Springs Art Guild is a nonprofit group of professional artists and talented artisans working in many media. We are painters, sculptors , glass artists, jewelers, woodworkers, photographers and textile artists. The Guild was formed to provide opportunities for local artisans to connect, collaborate and market their work as well as to foster creative and business opportunities in the community. For more information, www.warnerspringsartisanguild.com

The Eclipse Project – Flight is made up of hundreds of images of birds in flight. Valley News/MSJC photo

to the Valley News

RIVERSIDE – California’s metro areas are the nation’s ultimate hotspot s for those considering a battery-powered car. According to StorageCafe’s latest ranking of the largest 100+ metro areas based on their electric-vehicle friendliness, California claims half of the spots in the top 20. In fact, the West Coast swept every category of Storage Cafe’s study, leading the charge toward the EV trend.

A beacon of sustainability, the state of California has the most infrastructure to support an electric automobile community. Overall, EV ownership in California increased 27% in 2021 compared to 2020 and now counts over 878,000 electric vehicles.

Some key stats make California metros stand out from the rest.

With a host of things to do within a small radius and many charging stations, the San Diego metro stands out as the fifth best city for electric cars in 2023. EVs are a common sight in San Diego with over 73,000 electric cars, the fifth-highest EV presence across the 100 largest metros. San Diego has more than 1,000 public charging stations. Renters who drive their EVs through town also have cause to celebrate – 4.8% of apartments are located in multifamily buildings that offer charging capability.

Sacramento is another spot where electric vehicles are thriving. The metro ranked as the nation’s sixth

leading city for EV-friendliness.

Sacramento is No. 7 for its public charging stations correlated with population – 0.8/1,000 households.

It also boasts about 123 HOV lane miles, or 13% of the highway mileage, which support EV driving.

R anking ninth overall for EVfriendliness, Riverside is shaping up to be a contender in the electric vehicle race. The city offers over 100,000 EVs, which brings the number to about seven electric cars per 100 households. The high EV ownership is matched by local efforts to deliver in terms of infrastructure with 800-plus public charging stations. Additionally, a sizable chunk of the highway system, or 13.4%, is dedicated to EVs among other categories of vehicles.

Stockton rounds out the top 10 best places for electric cars. While the area is home to fewer EVs overall at 17,000 than other cities in the state, distribution per population indicates that they’re highly popular. There are over 7.2 electric vehicles per 100 households.

To find the full StorageCafe report, together with how experts answered some questions about the future of electric vehicle adoption, visit https://www.storagecafe.com/ blog/the-best-places-in-the-us-forelectric-vehicles/.

Submitted by StorageCafe.

War, water affect state plantings of sunflower crop

Ching Lee California Farm Bureau Federation

Despite the continuing war between Russia and Ukraine, major seed companies are not turning their backs on farmers in the two nations. Ukrainian growers may still face considerable difficulty amid the conflict, but both countries remain destinations for California-grown seeds.

That means California farmers can expect to produce contract seeds for the Black Sea region, including sunflowers, which remain a major crop in Russia and Ukraine. With more rainfall this winter, California sunflower acreage is expected to rise.

Nearly all sunflowers grown commercially in California are harvested as certified planting seeds used by other farmers who grow the crop. Sunflowers grown elsewhere are most often used to make cooking oil by crushing the seeds.

California farmers planted 33,500 acres of sunflowers last year, a 27% decline from 2021, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The plantings represent the lowest on record going back to 2009. Yields dropped about 18% last year compared to 2021. Farmers also left some 500 acres unharvested.

The state’s multi-year drought takes much of the blame for the reduced plantings, as farmers faced severe water cutbacks. Having to prioritize their limited supplies, they chose to water higher-value crops such as tree nuts, fruit, wine grapes and processing tomatoes. Though sunflowers were still profitable, “it’s probably more like middle of the pack,” said Garrett Driver, a Yolo County farmer who works as supply chain manager for Nuseed, a global seed company that sells sunflower seeds worldwide.

In addition to the reduced acreage last year, Driver said he thinks some fields that didn’t get enough water were abandoned early, as seed companies did not want to take a meager crop to harvest, especially with the higher cost of production.

Despite its drought-related chronic water problems, California remains an attractive location for certified seed production, especially sunflowers, Driver said. The Golden State’s “very favorable weather” lends to seed crops with low disease pressure, which means better yields. Being free of disease also allows companies to ship their seeds anywhere in the world, he added.

This time of year, seed companies are finalizing their planting contracts with farmers who will grow their seeds. Driver said he expects most of the sunflower acreage will be decided in the next week or two. He said he thinks state acreage could increase by 10% to make up for less production last year and the shorter inventory coming into this season.

Colusa County farmer Mitchell Yerxa said he’s growing more sun-

flowers this year because seed companies are offering more money. That was not the case last year, he noted, despite the rise in cost of water, labor, fertilizer and other inputs that farmers had to bear

Even though sunflowers require less water and fertilizer to grow, he said, the base price offered last year was not as attractive as other contracted crops such as vine seed and processing tomatoes.

“A lot of times what gets planted is based on what price they’re offering,” Yerxa said. “What’s nice about California is we have such a specialty niche of what we can grow. We know we can hold out for a higher price.”

A big factor influencing contract price is the overall commodity market, Driver said. Right now, wheat, rice, and forage and feed crops are all fetching higher prices. Tomatoes and vine seeds also remain lucrative options for farmers.

With all these crops competing for ground, seed companies are now willing to pay more for sunflower contracts, so they can secure the acreage they need, said Sutter County farmer David Richter. Like Yerxa, he is increasing his sunflower acreage this year

Where he farms in the Sutter Basin, Richter said he can usually irrigate the ground before planting and skip irrigations on the crop during the growing season because sunflowers don’t require much water. This year, “the rain gives us all of our moisture,” he said. This will allow him to use his water allocation on other crops such as rice and tomatoes.

“It’s been a profitable crop for us,” Richter said of sunflowers.

Although California farmers produce certified sunflower seeds for growers worldwide, Ukraine and Russia have been the biggest markets. Ukraine is normally the world’s top producer of sunflowers, but because of challenges from the war, it dropped to second place behind Russia last year, according to USDA. Together, Russia and Ukraine accounted for 53% of total world production in 2022.

When the Russia-Ukraine war broke out around this time last year, companies that produce certified sunflower seeds were uncertain about the future of their largest buyers, Driver said. Though seeds were still being sold, he said, a lot of seed companies pulled back production.

This year, they are looking to fill their shelves and to keep seed supplies flowing to farmers globally, especially to regions that have increased sunflower acreage, including the U.S., Canada, South America and Western Europe, Driver said.

U.S. farmers planted 1.69 million acres of sunflowers last year, a 31% increase from 2021, USDA reported.

Companies also continue to supply seeds to Russia and Ukraine. Sunflower production in Russia rose 2.7% last year, while Ukraine’s pro-

duction plunged more than 40%, according to USDA. Driver said even with the war continuing to upset the sunflower market, “there has been a little bit of a reset right now seeing what all Ukraine’s been able to do. They’ve quite remarkably been able to fight and still farm some of their acres, which is impressive,” he said.

As for Russia, Driver said he thinks each seed company is handling that market differently. Corteva, for example, last year said it was stopping its business activities in Russia. Driver said the company may be supplying seed to Russia through a distributor. He noted all major seed companies that produce sunflowers have been working to get products from ports to farmers’ fields.

“Ultimately, companies will find a way to get to the market, even in Ukraine,” he said. “At the end of the day, everyone’s got to eat, and from a humanitarian perspective, you’re trying to keep people fed and food

Valley News/California Farm Bureau Federation photo on the table.”

Being able to supply seed to even conflict regions of the world helps to stabilize markets, Driver said, which is key to long-term development and for creating “more sane geopolitical decision making.”

The age of electric vehicles ruling the roads is still dawning, but some cities are powering the charge

Nearly all sunflowers grown commercially in California are harvested as certified planting seed used by other farmers who grow the crop.

Ching Lee is an assistant editor of Ag Alert. She may be contacted at clee@cfbf.com. Permission to use this article was granted by the California Farm Bureau Federation.

Edward Jones offers investment ideas for business owners

need to invest in more than inventories and payroll to help achieve the future you’ve envisioned.

Here are a few investments you may want to consider.

Fund your retirement account. Depending on the nature of your business and how many employees you have, you can choose from a variety of tax-advantaged retirement plans, such as an owner-only 401(k), an SEP-IRA and a SIMPLE IRA. By contributing regularly to one of these accounts, you can avoid being entirely dependent on the sale of your business to pay for your retirement years.

To fund your 401(k) or other retirement plan, you’ll have many investment options – stocks, bonds, mutual funds and so on. And if you

“max out” on your retirement plan, you could build a separate investment portfolio. In any case, keep in mind that you’re already putting

a lot of money into your business, so, to achieve a level of diversification. You may want to concentrate your investment choices in areas outside your industry. While diversification can help reduce the impact of market volatility on your portfolio, it can’t guarantee profits, however, or protect against losses in a declining market.

Invest in property.

Your physical space is a key part of your business’ success. So, you may want to invest some time in comparing the pros and cons of renting versus owning. Of course, owning your building may require a big financial commitment, and it may not be feasible, but it could free you from worrying about untimely rent increases.

Consider disaster protection plans. If a fire or a weather-related disaster should strike your busi-

ness, would you be prepared?

It’s important for you to create a disaster recovery plan, which can include business interruption insurance to pay for your operating costs if you’re forced to shut down for a while.

Build emergency savings.

While a disaster protection plan with appropriate insurance can help keep your business afloat, it’s unlikely to cover other types of emergency needs, such as a major medical bill or an expensive repair to your home. For these unexpected costs, you may want to build an emergency fund covering at least a few months’ worth of living expenses, with the money kept in a liquid account. Without such an emergency fund, you may be forced to dip into your 401(k), IRA or other long-term investment vehicle. You’ll also want to invest the

time and energy into creating a business succession plan. Will you keep the business in your family?

Sell it to outsiders or a key employee? If you do sell, will you do it all at once or over time? Clearly, the answers to these types of questions will make a big difference in your ultimate financial security.

Invest in help.

Enlist the services of a financial adviser and business-planning professional, so you’ll be making decisions that work best for your business and you.

Your business may well be a lifelong endeavor; make sure you’re investing whatever it takes to earn a lifetime of benefits.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones financial adviser, Darion Haggerty, who can be contacted at 951-695-8844. Edward Jones, Member SIPC

Growing Inland Achievement President and CEO, Dr. Carlos Ayala, to retire

Empire; collectively, they work towards a shared vision of educational and economic success.

“It has been an honor to serve the students of the Inland Empire,” Ayala said. “I have learned a great deal about the affordances and constraints our students, families, institutions and community-based organizations face when it comes to student success.”

Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to participate in its Intermediaries for Scale program, also known as Higher Endeavor, bringing $10 million of support to the region for postsecondary transformation reforms.

forward,” Dr. Kim Wilcox, GIA Board Chair and Chancellor of UC Riverside, said. “I’m personally grateful for his efforts.”

and Riverside Counties as a regional, cross-sector network of education, government, nonprofit and business partners in the Inland

Dr. Carlos Ayala speaks at GIA’s annual Toward a Shared Vision Summit. Valley News/Growing Inland Achievement photo President and CEO of Growing Inland Achievement, Dr. Carlos Ayala, will retire in June. GIA serves both San Bernardino

Ayala, 62, has more than 25 years of service in public education. During his tenure as CEO, Ayala is credited with working with the network’s partners to establish GIA as a 501(c) (3), taxexempt organization, more than doubling the size of the organization and raising millions of dollars for Inland Empire education.

Under his guidance and working with the network members, GIA was accepted as one of only six organizations in the U.S. by the

“I want to thank the GIA Board of Directors and employees for their commitment to the people and students of the Inland Empire,” Ayala said. “I also wish to thank the vast array of people who are committed to changing the economy of the Inland Empire through education. Their work is notable and I remain convinced that the path forward is at your doorstep, engage collectively.”

The Board of Directors for GIA will oversee the process of choosing Ayala’s successor.

“As its first CEO, Carlos established the organization, including a set of processes to help us move

“Dr. Ayala brought a deep knowledge of the education landscape, strong leadership, and a passion for positively impacting student lives to our organization,” Ann Marie Sakrekoff, COO of Growing Inland Achievement, said. “He is leaving GIA in a great position to succeed in our next chapter. Under Dr. Ayala’s leadership, GIA has become nationally recognized.”

GIA’s shared vision is that by 2035, San Bernardino and Riverside counties will be widely recognized for their educated workforce, thriving communities and vibrant economy that creates prosperity for all.

SBA offers disaster assistance to California businesses and residents affected by the Fairview Fire

SACRAMENTO – Low-interest federal disaster loans are available to California businesses and residents affected by the Fairview Fire that occurred from Sept. 5 to

Oct. 3, 2022, announced Isabella Casillas Guzman, administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration. Fo llowing the denial of the

state’s request for a major disaster declaration, SBA acted under its own authority to declare a disaster in response to a request SBA received from Gov. Gavin

Newsom’s authorized representative, Nancy Ward, director of the California Office of Emergency Services, Monday, April 3.

“SBA’s mission-driven team stands ready to help California’s small businesses and residents impacted by the Fairview Fire,” Guzman said. “We’re committed to providing federal disaster loans swiftly and efficiently, with a customer-centric approach to help businesses and communities recover and rebuild.”

The disaster declaration makes SBA assistance available in Imperial, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino and San Diego counties in California and La Paz County in Arizona.

“Low-interest federal disaster loans are available to businesses of all sizes, most private nonprofit organizations, homeowners and renters whose property was damaged or destroyed by this disaster,”

Tanya N. Garfield director of the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Disaster Field Operations C enter-West, said. “Beginning Wednesday, April 5, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the following Disaster Loan Outreach Center to answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help each individual complete their application.”

The center will be open on the days and times indicated below until 5 p.m. Tuesday, April 18. No appointment is necessary.

Local outreach center

The Riverside County Disaster Loan Outreach Center is located in the Western Science Museum, Building 2 Museum Office Conference Room, 2345 Searl Parkway, in Hemet. It will be open Mondays through Fridays, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Businesses of all sizes and private nonprofit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory and other business assets. SBA can also lend

additional funds to businesses and homeowners to help with the cost of improvements to protect, prevent or minimize the same type of disaster damage from occurring in the future.

For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations of any size, SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic injury assistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any property damage. Disaster loans up to $200,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $40,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property.

Low interest rates

Interest rates can be as low as 3.04% for businesses, 1.875% for private nonprofit organizations and 2.188% for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition. Applicants may apply online, receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications at https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@ sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability, dial 711 to access telecommunications relay services. Completed applications should be mailed to U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155.

The deadline to apply for property damage is Monday, June 5. The deadline to apply for economic injury is Jan. 4, 2024. Submitted by the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Murrieta Assistant City Manager Kristen Crane credentialed by international local government management organization

integrity and lifelong learning and professional development.

Murrieta City Manager Kim Summers, who earned her credential city manager status in 2018, expressed her pride in Crane’s accomplishment. “Earning the ICMA Credentialed Manager designation is especially meaningful because it represents years of dedication to the city management profession. I am proud knowing that the City of Murrieta’s leadership values professional development and staying abreast of the issues facing local governments so we can best serve our residents,” Summers said.

Crane is qualified with nearly 30 years of professional local government executive experience. Prior to her appointment as Assistant City Manager at the City of Murrieta, she served as the Assistant City Manager of the City of Del Mar. In addition, she has worked in various capacities in both Northern and Southern California, leading a multitude of major initiatives, including water conservation, a city hall construction and utility undergrounding.

Crane, a member of ICMA for more than 25 years, has also made significant contributions to

a number of other organizations, including as a Past President of the Municipal Management Association of Northern California, a longtime member and former region chair of the Municipal Management of Southern California, Girl Scouts San Diego, and other school/youth-oriented organizations in her community.

For more information regarding the ICMA Voluntary Credentialing Program, contact Jenese Jackson at ICMA, 777 North Capitol Street, N.E., #500, Washington, D.C. 20002-4201; jjackson@icma.org; 202-962-3556.

Kristen Mignone Crane, assistant city manager of the City of Murrieta, recently received the Credentialed Manager designation from ICMA, the International City/ County Management Association. Crane is one of over 1,300 local government management professionals currently credentialed through the ICMA Voluntary Credentialing Program.

ICMA’s mission is to advance professional local government through leadership, management, innovation and ethics and by increasing the proficiency of

appointed chief administrative officers, assistant administrators, and other employees who serve local governments and regional entities worldwide. The organization’s 13,000 members in 27 countries also include educators, students and other local government employees.

To receive the prestigious ICMA credential, a member must have significant experience as a senior management executive in local government; have earned a degree, preferably in public administration or a related field; and demonstrated a commitment to high standards of

Temecula recognizes Innovation Month

TEMECULA – To highlight and celebrate the efforts of local innovators and entrepreneurs, the city of Temecula recognizes April as Innovation Month. Along with Riverside County and cities throughout the region, the city will be hosting a series of events throughout the month of April and invited the community to join them.

The Youth Innovators Program is a high school student-run committee in Temecula that plans and hosts community-based youth programs. Youth Innovators will meet Wednesdays, April 19 and April 26. Meetings begin at 4:30 p.m. Interested in joining? Complete an application at http://bit. ly/42QSyvQ

Those who are new to digital marketing and current users can attend “Digital Marketing for Your Small Business” Thursday, April 20, from 9-11 a.m. to learn about

digital marketing key components, goal setting and key metrics, and developing and measuring a sustainable digital marketing strategy. Register at https://bit.ly/42uveE3.

Check out the 2023 Science Fair, which calls all sixth, seventh and eighth graders to showcase their creativity, inventiveness and analytical skills Saturday, April 22, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The science fair celebrates enrichment and education in science, technology, engineering and math in the region.

Prize packages will be given to the top three finalists. Learn more and sign up at http://bit.ly/3G4JObQ.

All events will be held at the Temecula Valley Entrepreneur’s Exchange, 43200 Business Park Drive, in Temecula. For questions, contact the exchange by email TVE2@TemeculaCA.gov or by phone at 951-506-5180.

Submitted by city of Temecula.

City Manager Kristen Crane.

Valley News/Courtesy photo

Exterior renovations that boast the best ROI

TEMECULA – Remodeling with a return on investment in mind can be a smart strategy for homeowners, whether one is thinking about moving in the next few months or further down the road. Though this approach is an inexact science, in many instances, it’s savvy for homeowners to consider what buyers may want when planning home improvements.

Homeowners may be surprised to learn which renovations garner the best Return On Investment at resale. The home loan and refinancing company RenoFi indicates that overall home improvement projects provide a 70% ROI on average. Many high-ROI projects add functional space and improvement. The following are some exterior renovations that help homeowners recoup the most money at resale, according to Remodeling

magazine’s “2022 Cost vs. Value Report.”

The No. 1 change was garage door replacement at 93.3% recouped of $4,041 spent. In second place, adding manufactured stone venee r saw 91.4% recouped of $11,066.

Siding replacement with fiber cement was third with 68.3% recouped of $22,093, and vinyl window replacement was next at 67.5% recouped of $20,482.

The next four renovations were vinyl siding replacement at 67.2% recouped, wood window replacement at 66.3%, wood deck addition at 64.8% and steel entry door replacement at 63.8%, respectively.

The majority of renovations on Remodeling magazine’s list of the best investments are exterior renovations, making this area of a

home a particular point of interest for homeowners. The only interior project that cracked the Top 10 ROI for projects was a minor midrange kitchen remodel.

Exterior renovations perhaps add the most bang for your buck because they’re not only functional, but also because they add immediate curb appeal. Much in the way it has been said people eat with their eyes first, which is why chefs spend so much time on elaborate plating, buyers will judge a property by how it looks when they arrive, even before they’ve stepped inside a home. In essence, home buyers often judge a book by its cover. A worn exterior may indicate to potential buyers that the home was not maintained, however false that assumption may be.

It’s important for homeowners to consider all factors before

Valley Restart expands shelter space

HEMET – Valley Restart Shelter announced the expansion of their shelter through the addition of six brand-new Pallet Houses. These shelter houses will add to their current shelter space and provide temporary housing of 30-90 days to homeless seniors (priority), veterans and other homeless individuals currently looking for long term housing opportunities. Each pallet structure is 64 square feet for single occupancy. All include shelves, smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, fire

extinguishers, emergency egress opening and storage space. They are earthquake resistant and able to withstand winds of up to 110 mph. Also included is a separate structure housing two fully functional community bathrooms with two toilets, one shower, wash stations and complete privacy. All structures are ADA compliant.

“Our new, onsite Pallet Neighborhood is only the beginning of greater things to come,” VRS

Executive Director Javier Lopez said. “We work with homeless

Turnkey Property

families that want to get back on their feet. We provide a hand up, not a hand-out.”

Valley Restart Shelter was founded in 1989 and continues serving the homeless population throughout the San Jacinto Valley and surrounding communities. It currently has 15 dormitories with up to 49 beds serving families with children and single women. Residents receive three meals per day and are assisted with money management, credit counseling, life skills development and case

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Exterior renovations add the most bang for your buck because they add immediate curb appeal. Valley News/Metro Creative photo

beginning a renovation. Certain projects offer a stronger return on investment than others, and that’s

a significant consideration for homeowners thinking of selling their homes.

The Valley Restart shelter houses provide temporary housing (30-90 days) to homeless seniors, veterans and other homeless individuals currently looking for long term housing opportunities.

Valley News/Courtesy photo

management. Community referrals include housing, workforce development, mental and behavioral health, education and other “wrap-around” services. Dinner is provided every evening by local church groups, community-based organizations and individual providers.

VRS Board President Tim DeBolt, owner of DeBolt Pest Control said, “We are very excited to add these pallet homes to our existing supply of options for the underserved veterans, homeless seniors and individual homeless population of Hemet and surrounding areas.” He added, “We are actively working hard on finding solutions for homelessness and need the community’s ongoing help and support.”

VRS Vice President and founder of affordable housing developer Lamas Housing Project Sonia Lamas said, “Having the ability to simplify means to eliminate the unnecessary so that the necessary may speak for itself. The adoption of the Emergency Housing Ordinance is The City of Hemet at its Finest! Welcome to the beginning of the end.”

Besides adding the pallet homes, VRS has completed reroofing its current facilities, removed trees along Menlo Avenue, and added new flooring to its commercial kitchen, multipurpose room and one of its laundry rooms. Other short- and long-term goals include adding new fencing with security gates, upgrading restroom facilities, developing affordable housing opportunities through tiny home neighborhoods, multi-family units, adding a boutique store, and new administrative offices, all on its current campus.

“Valley Restart is poised to become the national model for homeless services, rapid rehousing and community re-entry referrals,” Lopez said. “Our work continues through strong collaboration with affordable housing developers, our friends in the Riverside County’s Continuum of Care, workforce development providers, educational institutions, our donors, city, county and state officials, Congressman Raul Ruiz, Supervisor Yxstian Gutierrez, and countless community and church partners.”

For more information, or a tour of the facility, please contact Javier H. Lopez at 951-766-7476 or execdirector.valleyrestart@yahoo. com. To learn more about Valley Restart, visit www.valleyrestart. info.

April 14 – 20, 2023

Perris boxer shows off her skills in recent bout

JP Raineri Sports Editor

PERRIS – Fighting out of P-Town Boxing Academy, female boxer María “La Imparable”

Santizo boxed on the undercard of the Showtime Boxing event Saturday, April 8, which featured Sebastian Fundora vs. Brian Mendoza in the main event.

The second fight of the evening was a flyweight bout between the younger sister of Fundora, Gabriela “Sweet Poison” Fundora (11-0, 4 KOs), who took on Santizo (11-3, 6 KOs). Battered and bloodied in round 6, Fundora dropped Santizo, who recovered well, but couldn’t record a knock down of her own. The fight would ultimately go to the judges as they scored a unanimous decision victory 79-72 ,79-72 and 77-74, all in favor of Fundora.

“Didn’t come out with the victory today but Maria did amazing,” a member of the Santizo camp said afterwards. “She is a true warrior, and we are very proud of her. We want to thank all our sponsors and we appreciate all the love and support we had from everyone. This is just the beginning; we will be back.”

In the main event, Sebastian Fundora did not fare as well, losing by knockout in a stunning defeat in the seventh round. Mendoza uncorked a left hand that landed on the chin of Fundora leaving him hurt and staggering.

Local speedway promoter strikes gold, at the right time

accusations as it is a hard business that few get rich from. However, one promoter now admits to literally sitting on a gold mine.

JP Raineri

Sports Editor

PERRIS – It’s no secret that the Perris Auto Speedway had been battling a dry spell prior to Mother Nature saturating the southland recently. It wasn’t so much due to a drought, but it did have to do with water issues, namely the Perris Dam Modernization Project. Many fans may be familiar with a publicity campaign using the social media hashtag #saveperris, which got some real traction, even at the State and local government level.

With pending construction lawsuits for the project, possible closures due to not having access to water for the track, worries of losing space to heavy equipment being stored at their parking lot, and the wear and tear on their area from the constant movement of that equipment, some good news was bound to strike. And strike it did, in the form of gold.

That’s right. Don Kazarian, managing member of the company that owns the speedway, who has been at the fairgrounds for 27 years, struck gold, real gold, under his track. On Friday, March 31,

while working on the track surface of his famous speedway, some strange hues were spotted on a portion of the track’s clay surface. Kazarian hopped out of the grader to get a closer look, and when he got near, he could not believe what he was seeing.

“Who would ever believe this?,” an excited Kazarian said. “From the grader, some of the clay looked strange and as I got closer it seemed to shine and I figured it was just glitter that blew down from the grandstands or something. I got to where I saw it and I pushed a screwdriver into the track. About nine inches down it stopped. I moved it around to a different spot and it was still there. I thought it was a massive rock, so I dug down and lo and behold, there is a very sizable vein of gold.”

Once he made his discovery, Kazarian halted all work on the track and rushed to his office. He went on YouTube and watched several reruns of the old “Gold Fever” television show. He then jumped on his computer to buy a gold prospecting kit on Amazon.

“I mean, it was big,” he exclaimed. “I knew I needed to confirm the find, so I got a kit that

came with three sniffer bottles, and I covered the area where the gold is and when the kit came the next day, I got out there on my knees and gathered up all the flecks. Now I carry one of those bottles everywhere I go.”

Kazarian will not say how big the vein is, where it is located on the track, and how or when he is going to remove it, but the plan is to not dig it up until the end of the season.

“Do you think I am crazy?” he shrieked when asked where the vein is located on the track and to see a photo. “I am not telling anyone or showing anyone as they will be out there digging. The last thing we need are holes in the track.”

He did say that the track will be altered and there will be a fifth corner where the vein is located. He plans to put up pylons and yellow police tape so drivers will follow the new dogleg in the track.

“I always knew that one day I was going to make a lot of money from owning a racetrack and it is finally happening,” Kazarian said.

It is said that most entertainment venues are sitting on gold mines, but promoters have strongly

While he has not told anyone of his find, word has begun to seep out. One former driver (at least one) has gotten a sniff of the story and he thinks he knows where the vein is located. That driver is past Oval Nationals and USAC/CRA Series champion and current USAC/CRA race director Tony Jones.

“I believe I know where it is,” Jones confidently said. “I flipped pretty darn hard there several years ago. When I finally stopped, I thought I was seeing stars. Now I think it may have been gold. You know, I think it is time for a thorough track inspection before our next race there on April 15. I will probably do it in the middle of the night, so I do not disturb anyone.”

When asked where on the track he flipped in the incident he was referencing, Jones said, “Do you think I am crazy? I am not telling anyone, or they will be out there digging it up.”

Kazarian is not sure what he will do with the gold after it is dug up. Obviously, he plans to sell some of it and said he will use some to spruce up the facility. He is waiting to decide what to do with a lot of it, but he did say he will replace all the handles in the restrooms with

gold ones before the start of the 2024 season.

“When fans come out for the start of our 28th season next March, they will be able to use the only gold restroom handles in all of racing.” He then added with his signature wink and a smile, “as always, we hope everyone had a fun-filled April Fool’s Day.

Racing action returned to action last Saturday when the track hosted the PASSCAR Super Stocks, Street Stocks and Factory Stocks along with the IMCA Modifieds and Sport Compacts. Results can be found online where advanced tickets for every race are available until noon on race day at www.tix.com/ticket-sales/ pas/7 or by calling 800-595-4849. For fans who do not wish to buy advance tickets, there will be plenty available for everyone at the ticket window each race night.

Perris Auto Speedway is conveniently located on the Lake Perris Fairgrounds, home of the Southern California Fair, one-hour east of Los Angeles and one-hour North of San Diego. To get to the track, take the 215 freeway, exit on the Ramona Expressway, and go three miles east to the fairgrounds. For directions online, the address to enter is: 18700 Lake Perris Drive, 92571. Special thanks to Scott Daloisio for contributing to this article.

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

Perris boxer María “La Imparable” Santizo took on Gabriela “Sweet Poison” Fundora, in red trunks, in an undercard bout of the Showtime Boxing event held Saturday, April 8. Valley News/Action Captures Media Group

A vein of gold, much like this one, was said to be found under the track at Perris Auto Speedway. Valley News/Courtesy photo

Tyler Gitmed won his first ever main event in the Super Stocks Saturday, April 8. Valley News/Doug Allen photo denied the

Lions golf finishes marathon week with narrow win over Arrowhead Christian

Derryl Trujillo

Sports Writer

TEMECULA – A marathon is 26.2 miles and that’s what this first week in April must’ve felt like for the Linfield Christian golf team.

Monday and Tuesday of last week saw the Lions participate in

Long Beach Wilson’s prestigious Champions Invitational in Palm Springs, which gives participants a taste of college golf with its five play, four count scoring format.

Linfield Christian finished 34th out of 45 teams in the event.

Regular high school golf in California, for those unfamiliar,

is played in teams of six with five scores counting toward the team total.

“We set a goal to shoot 310 each day, thinking that would give us a chance to finish mid pack. So, to not achieve that objective was disappointing,” Lions coach Mark Moore said. “I have a group of kids

that love to play golf and I know they’ll be working on their games over the break after taking some well-earned time off.”

Then on Wednesday and Thursday, April 5 and 6, the Lions returned to Ambassador League play with home matches against Woodcrest Christian and a much-anticipated matchup against defending league champion Arrowhead Christian at Temecula’s Cross Creek Golf Club.

After Thursday’s 200-205 victory over Arrowhead Christian, the Lions will take their spring break at 9-0 overall and 4-0 in Ambassador League play. They hold a one-match lead over the Eagles with a return match at Redlands Country Club scheduled for April 18.

“Both sides really took advantage of some excellent scoring conditions,” Moore said.

“We’re really excited to play the return match at Redlands Country Club, which is another excellent venue, against a quality program.”

Arrowhead Christian’s (6-1, 3-1) Sebastian Carrillo earned medalist honors with a one over par round of 37 while Daniel Guerra and Luke Bohmer also posted sub 40 scores with a pair of 38s to lead Linfield Christian.

Bohmer was steady in his round of 38 with seven pars and a pair of bogeys but had a save at the par three eighth hole that might

make some touring professionals jealous. His tee shot to the 200yard par three found the water and after taking a drop under penalty of one stroke, his wedge shot came to rest about 15 feet from the hole. It was a putt the junior rolled right in the center of the hole and in a match like this one can be a difference maker.

Meanwhile, Kim’s 40 was an eventful one as he started out double bogey and bogey at one and two (three putting from less than three feet). He then strung together birdies at three, six and seven with an impressive display of ball striking before struggling on the way in.

Linfield Christian is in pursuit of the program’s first Ambassador League title since 2018 and as a team currently averages a 204.8 in nine-hole dual matches.

At Cross Creek Golf Club (Par 36):

Linfield Christian Scores

Luke Bohmer - 38, Daniel Guerra - 38, Ben Kim - 40, Alfredo Guerra - 41, Charlie Li - 43, *Abby Bi - 51

Arrowhead Christian Scores

Sebastian Carrillo - 37, Drew Young - 41, Diego Carrillo - 42, Scott Woo - 42, Reuben Coke - 43, *Caden Rossi - 50

*Not counted towards team score Derryl Trujillo can be reached at socaltrekkie@gmail.com

Mendoza jumped in with a right left combination that floored and stopped his sluggish opponent, who took the ten count. Also on the card was former heavyweight title contender and Riverside area boxing fan favorite Chris Arreola (39-7-1, 34 KOs). Arreola defeated Mathew McKinney (13-7-3, 9 KOs) by

Perris boxer María “La Imparable” Santizo exchanges punches during her recent bout that was won by Gabriela “Sweet Poison” Fundora, in red trunks.

Chris Arreola stands over his opponent following a knockout punch. Valley News/Action Captures Media Group

BOXER from page C-1 knockout, connecting with a right hand at the 1:01 mark of round two. The ref gave McKinney the ten count and then raised Arreola’s hand in victory. Article contributions made by Action Captures Media Group. JP Raineri can be reached by email at sports@reedermedia. com

[Right] Brian Mendoza landed a combination knocking out Sebastian Fundora in the seventh round.

Linfield Christian defeated Arrowhead Christian last week in an Ambassador League golf match. Valley News/Courtesy photos

Linfield Christian’s Luke Bohmer tees off in a recent golf match.

Linfield Christian’s Abby Bi follows through on her swing at a recent golf match.

Woolsey rallies for first victory in ASHER Tour’s PGA Tour Canada qualifying tune-up event

Derryl Trujillo

Sports Writer

SAN JACINTO – There was a win to be had on Friday afternoon, April 7, at Soboba Springs Golf Course in the ASHER Tour’s Soboba Springs Shootout and learning what has to be done in preparation for the PGA Tour Canada qualifier (April 11-14).

In that event, the winner will earn full 2023 playing privileges in that circuit and an opportunity to chase the Fortinet Cup.

In consecutive starts, Eric Hagen held the overnight lead just to come up short of victory.

At Bear Creek Golf Club on March 28, he struggled to an opening

nine of 41 (+5) and fell by a pair of shots to Joshua Matz. For much of last Friday’s round he was the sole leader…using precise iron play to set up short birdies at four and seven and a long bomb from 30 feet to make another birdie at eight. Hagen made the turn with a three under par round of 33 and held a one or two shot lead for fourteen holes on Friday, April 7. He fell back into a tie for the lead after a double bogey seven at the par five 15th hole and missed a playoff by a shot as his attempt to reach the par five 18th in two missed in the greenside penalty area.

“Twelve months ago I was working in an office,” Hagen said.

“So to have the overnight lead in back to back starts with so little time back in competitive golf, even coming up short, gives me a lot of confidence heading into next week. I was definitely a lot calmer with the lead this time around then I was at Bear Creek which is a product of reps in that situation and that’s what I take into the next time I have a lead.” Hol es four, five and six are where players expect to make their score on the front nine and Noah Woolsey was no different. The former University of Washington Husky birdied all three holes in that stretch and went out in two under par 34. He’d add another bogey free back nine of 34 to the

card with birdies at 11 and 18 to post 68 and wait as Devon Horne, Matt Wilson and Hagen attempted to match him at -8. After an even par front nine Horne made three birdies in five holes on his back nine to pull within a shot but missed an opportunity for birdie and a playoff at 18. Wilson, the 2019 California State Open Champion, nailed a fairway metal over the back of the green in two at 18 but trailing by two needed an eagle which he needed to capitalize on Hagen’s misfortune at 18, mentioned above. With those last three threats gone, Woolsey earned his first professional victory and a winner’s check of $5,000.

“I turned pro about nine months ago and had expectations of winning pretty quickly at this level,” Woolsey said. “When things didn’t pan out that way, I had to reset my expectations at the beginning of the year. I was more relaxed this week than I have been and am excited about this win along with next week’s qualifier.”

PGA Tour Canada qualifying began Tuesday, April 11, at Soboba Springs Golf Course and finished before the weekend. Live scoring is available at www.pgatour.com/ canada/leaderboard.

Derryl Trujillo can be reached at socaltrekkie@gmail.com

Titans struggle with runners in scoring position, fall in early Ivy League softball game

Derryl Trujillo

Sports Writer

LAKE ELSINORE – Early in 2023 the Temescal Canyon softball team showed a penchant for dramatic wins by recording two walk offs earlier this season against Vista Murrieta and Hemet.

That’s why Riverside Poly coach Robert Sakaguchi took comfort in a fifth inning solo home run from Emilie Castillo to the deepest part of center field with his team holding a 2-0 lead. As it was, the extra run wasn’t needed with Bears starting pitcher Miranda De Nava’s ability to consistently work out of trouble against a Titans lineup that averaged 9.2 runs per game.

De Nava scattered five hits, struck out four, walked five and hit two but did not allow a run against Temescal Canyon in a 3-0 victory Tuesday, April 4, in Lake Elsinore.

For the Titans it was a game of missed opportunities as they had a runner or runners aboard in six of seven innings but failed to capitalize, stranding 12 and having another thrown out at home.

“I trust this defense to make plays behind me because I know there are going to be days where I don’t rack up the strikeouts and the ball is put into play,” De Nava said. “It’s been tough to find a rhythm this year with all the rainouts but I know this team will have my back, good day or bad.”

In the second inning Temescal Canyon (10-2-1, 1-1) loaded the bases with two outs on a hit batter, Marissa Sanchez’ single to right field and a walk from Natalie Castro before De Nava struck out Mya Tucker to escape trouble. The Titans again loaded the bases with two outs in the sixth inning as De Nava hit Sanchez with a

pitch and then allowed walks to both Tucker and Castro before striking out Mary Cabrera to end the inning.

By the seventh inning Temescal Canyon had two on with one out on Xiane Romero’s single and a walk from Violet Garcia before Jessenia Moore ended the game with another popup. Also, in the fifth Cabrera led off with a double to straight away center field that hit the upper portion of the fence but was called out trying to score as Romero reached on a misplayed fly ball in right field and Garcia flew out to left field.

“It’s been awhile since we’ve seen live pitching with the rainout situation, but we’ve got to be able to make adjustments and unfortunately today we weren’t able to do that against her (De Nava’s) riseball,” Titans coach Sarah Kretschmar remarked. “I thought both of our pitchers threw a good game as Poly didn’t square up too many balls but they did get the biggest hit of the game in that

home run.”

Riverside Poly (13-0-1, 1-0) got two runs in the top of the fourth as De Nava led off with a single to left field, swinging on the first pitch and Castillo walked. After a sacrifice bunt Reina Gonzalez

scored the game’s first run on an RBI groundout and the other scored as Corina James recorded an RBI infield single.

WP: Miranda De Nava - CG, 5 hits, 4 Ks, 5 BBs, 2 HBP and 0 Runs

LP: Garcia, Violet - 5+ IP, 5 hits, 1 K, 4 BBs, 2 HBP and 3 runs

Leading Hitter: Cabrera (TC) 2-4

HR: Castillo, Emilie (Poly-1) Derryl Trujillo can be reached at socaltrekkie@gmail.com

Yin tops LA Open to become LPGA’s second Chinese winner

JP Raineri

Sports Editor

PALOS VERDES ESTATES –

Ruoning Yin became the second Chinese winner in LPGA Tour history Sunday, April 2, holding off Georgia Hall in the DIO Implant LA Open. The 20-year-old Yin closed with an eventful 1-under 70 for a one-stroke victory over Hall, the English player whose 5-foot birdie try on the 18th to force a playoff slid by the right side. Recently retired Shanshan Feng is the only other Chinese champion, winning ten times on the LPGA Tour.

Noah Woolsey holds the check from his first professional victory on Friday, April 7, at Soboba Springs Golf Course in the ASHER Tour’s Soboba Springs Shootout.

First round leader Eric Hagen attempts to reach the 18th green in two shots on Friday, April 7, at Soboba Springs Golf Course in the ASHER Tour’s Soboba Springs Shootout.

2019 California State Open Champion Matt Wilson hits his second shot into the 18th hole on Friday, April 7, at Soboba Springs Golf Course in the ASHER Tour’s Soboba Springs Shootout.

Devon Horne hits a tee shot on the par 3 16th hole in Friday’s final round of the ASHER Tour’s Soboba Springs Shootout. Valley News/Andrez Imaging photos

Temescal Canyon starting pitcher Violet Garcia throws a pitch during last Tuesday’s Ivy League softball game against Riverside Poly.

Temescal Canyon’s Mary Cabrera attempts to score in a recent Ivy League softball game against Riverside Poly but is tagged out at home.

Riverside Poly’s Emilie Castillo running the bases following a solo home run against Temescal Canyon.

Riverside Poly starting pitcher Miranda De Nava throws a pitch during an Ivy League softball game against Temescal Canyon Tuesday, April 4. Valley News/Andrez Imaging photos

Ruoning Yin held a two-shot lead as she tees off at No.10 at the DIO Implant LA Open held at the Palos Verdes Golf Club Sunday, April 2.

Georgia Hall set a tournament scoring record with a nine under 62 third round, putting her in the lead group for the final round. Valley News/David Canales photo

Students take video production to the next level with new studio

Diane

Students at San Jacinto High School are now able to get a feel for top-notch video production with the recent completion of an $800,000 studio on campus. The soundproof recording studio is flanked by audio and visual control rooms where students are learning the ins and outs of creating broadcasts that go out to classmates and others.

Jeremy Murphy, who teaches three introductory courses for Video Production and two capstone courses called Advanced Video Production, has been at the school since the fall of 2020. His courses are a part of the Arts, Media and Entertainment pathway, which is one of the career cluster pathways in Career and Technical Education.

Murphy’s old classroom had an adjacent storage room that contained a green screen, folding table and folding chairs. In the spring of 2021, he asked if the wall could be moved out about eight feet to accommodate a professional desk or at least a multiple-camera setup.

“From there, district leaders wanted to know my ultimate vision and so we began to design an ideal space for student creation and production. District officials had a long-term plan of updating all of the CTE pathways and it coincided with my request to renovate our media space,” Murphy said. “I’m not an architect or engineer. My role was just to provide insight into what an ideal environment would look like and share that with the team.”

Vince Record, Director for CTE and Special Programs for SJUSD, said it was a great collaborative effort on the part of many departments and individuals during the past two years to see this project realized. “Because of the high student interest in Digital

The visual control room is a crucial part of the new Video Production studio. Valley

Media and Video Production and the success of the Tiger Media Network, the Video Production Studio was written into our Career Technical Education Incentive Grant as part of our CTE pathway enhancement plan,” Record said.

The two original classrooms were separated by a wall and each room had its own storage area. The two classrooms were combined with a door, some cabinets were removed, and the original storage rooms were widened to create studio space and production rooms. No additional classrooms were impacted.

Studio specifications

The final result was a 340-sq.ft. studio, 60-sq.ft. visual production room, 60-sq.ft. audio control room and 160-sq.ft. storage room. The space is equipped with industrystandard equipment which Murphy said allows students to practice the same skills they would need in a professional environment. He said everything from the lights, operating boards, microphones, teleprompters, sound mixers, studio cameras and video switchers are meant to develop students into versatile, career-ready candidates.

The official launch of the studio was on March 29, when dignitaries were invited to a ribbon cutting ceremony and tour of the studio. Murphy thanked key staff who helped make the studio possible.

“The San Jacinto Unified School District facilities team did a great job working with the designers to make this as much of a reality as possible within the current building infrastructure,” Murphy said. “There was honestly never a time where I was told that something was impossible or would not work, which is a testament to the facilities staff and district officials and their collaboration with the architects.”

It was important to Murphy to

provide an authentic production environment, which meant creating a soundproof space with multiple rooms for visual and audio control capabilities. The soundproof doors and windows allow for students to still be working in the classroom lab during a live production. The 40 computers and monitors in the classroom lab were a part of the upgrade so students now have 32inch, high resolution monitors to assist with video and photo editing.

It was also important that students have the capability to control multiple components during the course of a broadcast, including audio inputs, video inputs, prompters, graphics and lighting. Murphy said it all replicates a professional production and requires students to communicate clearly and collaborate with each other in real time.

Mimics pro spaces

Specific features that help mimic a professional space include the use of multiple video inputs, both pre-recorded and live; the ability for students to communicate during a live production, including earpieces for the talent; the updated lighting grid with LED lights controlled by a DMX Operator; professional teleprompters; studio backdrop and desk with four television monitors for graphic support; and a 16-channel audio mixer for multiple live audio inputs.

The graphic design courses within the SJHS Arts, Media and Entertainment pathway, including yearbook, take place in an adjacent classroom. Murphy is hoping students in all digital media pathway courses will be able to work collaboratively in this new space to create authentic products for the Tiger Media Network. The TMN, which now has a state-of-theart studio to create broadcasts and

Valley News/Diane A. Rhodes photo share content with the community, was created by Murphy’s students during distance learning in the fall of 2020.

“Since then, students have worked to create and develop their own content for their platforms,” Murphy said. “Tiger Media Network is a student-run media group, meaning the students make all content decisions and manage their own media platforms. The Editorial Board meets weekly and manages the student group.”

TMN Board TMN board members are Alex Díaz, Assistant Editor; Ezekiel Gonzalez, Executive Producer; Abraham Jimenez, Content Editor; Teresita Salazar Cienfugos, Editorin-Chief; Matthew Wade, Technical Director; and Zane Worthington, Creative Director.

Senior Alex Díaz said he joined the video production course after the CTE engineering pathway he was on was discontinued. One of his friends said good things about the course and he was running a YouTube channel called Díazvlogz. Since he was starting to utilize the social media network, he felt the course could help him learn how to boost the way he presents and thinks, as well as teach him more about the creative side of the business.

Alex said the video production class has taught him how to be better and why it’s important to respect the chain of command because if someone doesn’t do their job, it affects everyone else’s jobs and things won’t work correctly. He is enjoying the new space and likes the look of everything. He is part of the on-air talent for broadcasts.

“I feel like a million bucks walking into the studio,” Alex said. “The lights, the people I work with, they make it special. I like anchoring. If we had a special spot for someone specifically to go around the school live and interview people, I’d do it.”

During the video production studio construction, which began in March 2022, students worked in a temporary classroom space.

The first official TMN10 broadcast was able to be done when the students moved into the new space in February.

“Students had prepared a schedule and show template, but we were waiting until we moved before we actually broadcast a show to the student body,” Murphy said. “We have been creating content for our media platforms all year, including live streams of events as well as the logos and graphics seen on our platforms. Before the first TMN10 broadcast, the Tiger Media students came up with and developed the TMN10 name and graphics.”

The students said they chose the name because they grew up watching CNN10 in their English classes once a week and they figured it would be relatable to students. They also liked the graphic options with it.

Real experiences

Murphy said the goal of the program and new space is to provide students with a variety of professional experiences in a structured environment to help make them more marketable as they pursue their desired careers.

“Within the structure of the student-run media program, they are also developing essential soft skills that can be applied to any professional work environment,” he said. “In an industry-standard studio space such as this, students are thinking critically, collaborating, constantly communicating and applying creativity in all of their tasks. This space also allows them to create authentic products for public consumption, so instead of just another ‘homework’ assignment, students are developing public projects.”

The students manage social media accounts on all platforms. They also have a website and run a YouTube channel. Instagram: @tigermedianetwork, Fa cebook: @sjhstigermedia, TikTok: @sjhstmn, Twitter: @ sjhstmn, YouTube: www. tigermedianetwork.com and Web: www.sjhsnews.com

Three Murrieta High School students going to Rotary Four-Way Speech Contest and Music Competition district finals

The Rotary Club of Murrieta will send three Murrieta High School students to Rotary District 5330 competitions this spring.

Anna Pham, an 11th grade student at Murrieta Valley High School, will represent Murrieta Rotary in the Four-Way Speech

LA OPEN from page C-3

“I dreamt about this for so many times and it finally came true today,” Yin said. “Wasn’t easy at all and it means a lot, not just for me, also for China. Shanshan is always my goal here, and she has ten tour wins here, and, yeah, it is just my first one. She is definitely the person I look up to.”

Yin finished at 15-under 269 at Palos Verdes Golf Club, making six birdies and five bogeys in the final round in her 20th tour start.

She had a nine-hole stretch without a par, making a birdie on No. 2, three straight bogeys, four straight birdies and a bogey on No. 10. After dropping a stroke on 13, she birdied 14 and parred the final four.

“I fought so hard to stay ahead,” Yin said. “I just made three bogeys in a row on the front nine. I am so happy that I fought back.”

Georgia Hall set a tournament scoring record with a nine under 62 third round, putting her in the lead group for the final round. Patty Tavatanakit of Thailand and Hyo

Competition on April 22 in Beaumont. Clubs from throughout the two-county district will be competing for cash prizes in the contest. Murrieta Rotary’s FourWay Speech Contest was held Feb. 21, at Murrieta Valley Unified School District Headquarters. The

Club’s Four-Way Speech contest was directed by Linda Lunn. Christina Park, a violinist and Vista Murrieta High School junior, and vocalist Jenna Rutz, a Murrieta Valley High School senior, represent Murrieta Rotary in the Rotary District 5330 music competitions this year. Murrieta Rotary held its music competition in partnership with the Temecula Noon Rotary Club at the Merc Theatre on Feb. 23.

President-elect Rob Haskins, chair of the Club’s music competition, said the district’s music competitions are held at the University of Redlands, Frederick Loewe Performance Hall, 1200 E. Colton Ave., Redlands, at 9 a.m. The instrumental competition will be held Saturday, May 13. The vocal competition was held Saturday, March 11 and Jenna Rutz placed third.

The Four-Way Speech Contest and Music Competitions are one of many community activities that Murrieta Rotary Foundation conducts with funding from Murrieta Field of Honor sponsorships. The 2023 Murrieta Field of Honor will be held Nov. 4-11 in Town Square Park.

DIO Implant LA Open Champion Ruoning Yin. Valley News/David Canales photo

A. Rhodes Special to Valley News

San Jacinto High School’s Tiger Media Network board members celebrate the official launch of the video production studio on March 29. From left, Zane Worthington, Matthew Wade, Ezekiel Gonzalez, CTE instructor Jeremy Murphy, Alex Díaz, Teresita Salazar Cienfugos and Abraham Jimenez.

News/San Jacinto Unified School District photo

Joo Kim of South Korea tied for third at 12 under, with Tavatanakit shooting 65 and Kim 71. Nelly Korda (67) and Carlota Ciganda (66) were 11 under. Valley News photographer David Canales contributed to this article.

Murrieta Valley High School junior Anna Pham with Linda Lunn, Murrieta Rotary’s Speech Contest chairperson.

Music Contest Chair Rob Haskins presents Christina Park with the winning prize.

Jeanna Rutz receives her prize check from Rob Haskins.

Valley News/Courtesy photos

A way to less stress: Foods that calm the body and the mind

INDIANAPOLIS , Ind. – Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious or stressed out? You’re not alone.

In today’s fast-paced world, many people struggle to find a healthy work-life balance, manage their emotions and take care of their mental health. There are many natural ways to reduce stress, including exercise, meditation and spending time in nature. But did you know that the food you eat can also play a significant role in your stress levels?

April is Stress Awareness Month, the perfect time to focus on the importance of stress management and self-care. In celebration of this year’s Stress Awareness Month, Isaac Robertson, a health expert from TotalShape.com, talks about some of the best foods to eat when you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed, as well as some of the real mechanisms behind their stress-relieving magic.

Look for these foods that can help fight stress.

Enjoy foods high in vitamin B.

Known as the stress hormone, cortisol plays an important role in your body during stressful times or when your body is under physical stress, like inflammation. It is released by the adrenal glands, which are located above your kidneys, and it is crucial for how your body deals with the infamous fight-or-flight instinct.

Although cortisol is good for you in the sense that it provides you with enough energy to manage stress, too much cortisol in your body will actually create more stress, which can happen during prolonged periods of stress. It is where the B vitamins come into play as they are excellent for regulating cortisol levels.

Foods rich in vitamin B include organ meats, beef, chicken, eggs, as well as fortified cereal, like whole grains.

Eat foods high in omega-3 fatty acids.

One of the ways in which omega-3 can help fight stress is through their anti-inflammatory properties. By reducing inflammation, omega-3 fatty acids help improve your mood and reduce stress. Moreover, they promote healthy brain function, and they also play a role in reducing cortisol levels.

Some of the best dietary sources of omega-3s include salmon, tuna, sardines and oysters, as well as avocados, flaxseeds, chia seeds and walnuts.

Consume foods rich in magnesium.

Magnesium is a natural muscle relaxant and can help promote relaxation in the body. When the body is relaxed, it is better able to cope with stress and anxiety.

Magnesium also supports brain function, and, just like vitamin B and omega-3, it helps regulate cortisol levels.

Magnesium can be found in a variety of foods, including spinach, kale, broccoli, pumpkin seeds and dark chocolate.

Seek out protein-rich foods.

Protein-rich foods can help

• Certain foods can help reduce stress and anxiety, including those high in vitamin B, omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, protein and vitamin C.

• These foods can help regulate cortisol levels, reduce inflammation, promote relaxation and improve immune system function.

• On the other hand, it’s best to avoid alcohol, caffeine, high-sugar foods and soda during stressful times, as they can exacerbate stress, anxiety and disrupt sleep.

Images from Adobestock

reduce stress levels in multiple ways. They tend to be more fi lling than carbohydrates or fats, reducing stress-related cravings. Combining proteins with carbohydrates can slow glucose absorption, stabilizing blood sugar levels and preventing spikes and crashes, which tend to make stressful situations even more difficult.

Some of the best sources of protein include lean meats, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, nuts and seeds.

Eat foods rich in vitamin C.

Vitamin C is important for the healthy function of the adrenal glands, and, as previously mentioned, they play an important role in your body during stressful periods because of cortisol production. Also, vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can improve immune system function, which can be weakened during stressful periods. Finally, vitamin C is involved in the production of dopamine, which can help improve mood and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.

Foods that are high in vitamin C include citrus fruits, berries, kiwi, pineapple, red and green peppers, broccoli, Brussels sprouts and spinach.

There are also foods to avoid as they can make a stressful situation worse.

Skip alcohol.

Alcohol can disrupt sleep and impair cognitive function, which can exacerbate stress and anxiety. Avoid caffeine.

Caffeine can increase heart rate and blood pressure, leading to feelings of jitteriness and anxiety. It can also disrupt sleep, making it harder to manage stress.

Avoid simple carbs and foods high in sugar.

High-sugar foods and simple carbs can cause blood sugar spikes and crashes, leading to mood swings and fatigue, which can exacerbate stress.

Skip soda.

Soda is often high in sugar and caffeine, which can cause similar effects as high-sugar foods and caffeine.

“Stress can be managed through various natural ways, including exercise, meditation and spending time in nature,” Robertson said. “However, the food we eat also plays a crucial role in our

stress levels. Eating foods rich in vitamin B, omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, protein and vitamin C can help regulate cortisol levels, reduce inflammation, promote relaxation and improve mood.

“On the other hand, foods high in alcohol, caffeine, high-sugar, and simple carbs, as well as soda, should be avoided as they can worsen stress and anxiety.

This Stress Awareness Month is

a great time to start focusing on stress management and self-care, including the right kind of diet,” Robertson said. Submitted by totalshape.com.

Local Doctor Helps Legally Blind to See Again!

Dr. Richard Shuldiner helps macular degeneration sufferers with reading, driving, TV, and maintaining independence.

Pete T., an 83 year-old retired engineer from Palm Springs thought that his driving days were over. “I could not read the street signs soon enough and it made me nervous.”

Helen T. retired teacher, 74, from San Diego wanted to be able to read and write more easily. She wanted to see her grandchildren singing in the church choir. But she thought those days were over when she was diagnosed with macular degeneration. Neither of these patients knew that a low vision optometrist could help with some of those issues.

“Bioptic telescopic glasses can be used to see signs further down the road,” said Dr. Richard Shuldiner, Low Vision Optometrist and Founder of the International Academy of Low Vision Specialists (IALVS).

“This can allow some people with conditions like macular degeneration to continue driving.”

“Amazing!” said Pete. “I can read the street signs and even see the television better!”

Lee K, 71, of Anaheim called on the advice of a friend. “I wanted to be able to keep driving and do the fun things in life. One of those fun things is baseball. I can see those close plays again,” said the patient.

Bioptic telescopic glasses were prescribed to read signs and see traffic lights farther away. As one patient put it, ‘’These telescopic glasses not only allow me to read signs from a farther distance, but make driving much easier. I’ve also used them to watch television so I don’t have to sit so close; definitely worth the cost. I don’t know why I waited two years to do this.”

Macular degeneration is the most common

eye disease amongst the senior population. As many as 25% of those over 65 have some degree of degeneration. The macula is one small part of the entire retina, but it is the most sensitive and gives us sharp images. “Our job is to figure out everything and anything possible to keep a person functioning visually,” said Dr. Shuldiner. “Whether it’s driving, reading, watching television, or seeing faces, we work with whatever is on the persons ‘wish list.”’ Low Vision glasses start at around $600. It is a small price to pay for the hours of enjoyment you can have with better vision and more independence.

For more information and a FREE telephone consultation to determine if you are a candidate for our services, call:

TOLL FREE:

888-610-2020

TV, playing card games and more! www.LowVisionCare.com

Paid Advertisement

Veronica K. driving with bioptic telescope glasses.

Jury seated in trial of felon accused of killing man in transient camp

City News Service

Special to Valley News

A jury was seated Thursday, April 6 in the trial of a probationer accused of fatally shooting a Good Hope man during a confrontation in a homeless encampment stemming from a prior feud.

Gerardo Duenas Jimenez, 42, is charged with first-degree murder, being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm and sentence-enhancing gun and great bodily injury allegations for the 2019 slaying of 29-year-old Rafael “Rafa” Quintero.

Jury selection began Tuesday, April 4 and concluded Thursday morning, April 6 at the Southwest Justice Center in Murrieta. Riverside County Superior Court Judge Timothy Freer directed jurors to return to the courthouse Monday, April 10 for opening statements by the prosecution and defense.

Jimenez is being held in lieu of $1 million bail at the nearby Byrd Detention Center.

According to a trial brief filed by the District Attorney’s Office, Jimenez resided in a transient encampment on a five-acre parcel known as “The Hills,” in the area of Phillips Street and Robles Lane, northeast of Lake Elsinore.

Sheriff’s investigators said illegal activity was known to occur at the site, including unlicensed outdoor marijuana cultivation, in which Jimenez was allegedly involved.

Court papers stated that Quintero was a regular visitor to the encampment, where he had several friends. In mid-January 2019, the victim drove his pickup onto the site and incurred Jimenez’s

wrath for driving too fast near the defendant’s RV, prosecutors allege.

According to the brief, there was a confrontation, during which Jimenez told Quintero to stop driving near his residence, prompting the victim to reply that it wasn’t Jimenez’s place to tell him what to do.

“To make his point, Quintero pulled out his handgun and fired it either in the air or at the ground, near Jimenez’s feet,” according to the brief. “Quintero then drove off, only to return later to collect the bullet casings.” Jimenez was incensed, telling neighbors that “he was going to get (Quintero) back, and that he should not have messed with him,” according to the prosecution.

On the afternoon of Jan. 21,

2019, Quintero returned to the location to visit his friends, and after the victim parked his pickup, Jimenez approached him and confronted him with his hands in his pockets. Several witnesses later told sheriff’s detectives that the two men briefly spoke face to face before Jimenez allegedly pulled a handgun from his jacket pocket and fired twice into Quintero’s chest, the brief said.

The victim staggered back to his pickup, got inside and managed to “put the truck into drive and put his foot on the gas, when the defendant shot him a third time, in his head,” court papers alleged.

“Quintero slumped over the wheel as his truck lurched into another pickup parked in front of it,” according to the brief.

With the help of at least two unnamed and unknown parties, Jimenez allegedly drove the dead man’s pickup into a drainage canal near the intersection of Cakes Place and Keystone Drive, in an unincorporated area southwest of Perris, where Quintero’s body was dumped, according to prosecutors. His remains were discovered a week later, as was the pickup, culminating in a two-month homicide investigation that resulted in criminal charges against Jimenez. According to court documents, the defendant has prior convictions for possession of controlled substances and receiving a stolen vehicle.

Pedestrian struck, killed on San Jacinto street

City News Service Special to Valley News

A pedestrian was fatally injured when he attempted to run across a San Jacinto street and was hit by two cars, authorities said.

stopped and called 911.

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

San Jacinto avenues, according to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department.

handling ($2.50 total cost). Call (760) 723-7319 to order.

The fatality occurred about 7:40 p.m. Wednesday, April 5 near the intersection of Esplanade and

Sgt. Patrick Lynch said that the man, whose identity was not immediately released, tried to dash across San Jacinto Ave. in traffic and was hit by the two vehicles on the four-lane corridor. Both drivers immediately

Lynch said that patrol deputies and paramedics reached the location within a few minutes, after which the victim was taken to a regional trauma center, where he died Wednesday night. San Jacinto Ave. was completely shut down just north of Esplanade Ave. for several hours while a

preliminary investigation was conducted, according to the sergeant.

The two motorists, whose identities were not disclosed, were questioned by deputies but not arrested.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the sheriff’s San Jacinto station at 951-766-2366.

New road closure in Menifee by housing developers seen

Tony Ault Staff Writer

A new project in Menifee will be taking place this week by the developers of the Menifee 80 and Quartz Ranch residential housing developments on Evans Road between Holland Road and Corson Ave. through April 17.

The developer is performing required improvements on the road to accommodate more traffic expected from the developments.

Also in Menifee, Southern California Edison work is continuing on Menifee Road from Newport to Holland roads and will be active in both daytime and nighttime hours at the intersection. Traffic control will be in place during the project work and messages containing contact information for the project will also be placed in the project area. Work in this area is expected to continue through the middle of April.

The City Capital Improvement Project is progressing on construction work related to the Holland Road Overpass project. Holland Road between Hanover Lane and Antelope Road will remain closed for the duration of the project, which is expected to last 18 months. For additional information and to sign up for project updates, please visit www. hollandoverpass.com.

Another Menifee City Capital Improvement Project taking place on Menifee Road between Holland Road and Camino Cristal was temporarily delayed due to weather. Active project construction will resume April 15. Traffic signal and median work continues at McCall Boulevard and Ranch Road as part of the McCall Square project. The construction schedule for this project has been extended and is now expected to continue through April. Traffic control will remain in place for the duration of the project.

SoCal Gas Company continues the installation of new gas pipeline infrastructure in the vicinity of Evans Road and Lazy Creek Road. Lane closures will remain in place for the next several months to support the project.

SoCal Gas has closed Matthews Road at Menifee Road during daytime hours while improvements are completed. Due to weather delays, work on this project has been extended and is expected to continue through April. Traffic control will be in place during active construction.

For questions on the project/ construction updates listed, please contact Philip Southard, Public Information and Legislative Affairs Officer, at 951-746-0654 or at psouthard@cityofmenifee.us RIVERSIDE California Department of

Transportation and Riverside County Transportation improvement work is still continuing along the Highway 60 truck lanes between Beaumont and Moreno Valley although most of the work has been completed adding the greatest safety of other motorists on the busy highway.

Follow @60TruckLanes for the latest construction updates.

Also, RCTC and Caltrans are reconstructing the 71/91 Interchange Project in Corona. Construction will take place from early 2023 to 2025.The 71/91 Interchange serves as a gateway between Riverside, Orange and San Bernardino counties and is a vital link for commuters and freight vehicles that travel along the 91 and the 71.

SAN BERNARDINO

Caltrans began a $2.25 million emergency project on State Route 189 near Lake Arrowhead because of the latest severe storm activity in the area with the roadway showing signs of stress and beginning to slip out. Caltrans GeoTech and Maintenance crews promptly closed the route and were able to finalize evaluations.

An emergency director’s order was given with the contractor, Sukut Construction LLC, and given the approval for immediate operations. The contractor was on scene since April 4.

Crews are bringing in additional

equipment, changeable message signs, and have begun removing snow, existing guardrail, loose rock wall and damaged pavement. The repair will be similar to the SR-18 Red Rock Wall. Operations include roadway excavation, slope repair, retaining wall repair, pavement operations and striping.

Currently, SR-189 remains closed from Lodge Road, to slightly west of SR-173. Motorists still have access to Lake Arrowhead Village but will not be allowed directly through the work zone. You must go around to get to the Village using SR-18 to SR-173. Crews will be working from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, and possibly weekends to assist in reopening the route as quickly as possible.

Know before you go! To stay on top of roadwork in the Inland Empire go to Caltrans District 8 and sign up for commuter alerts. Follow them for the latest information on Facebook and Twitter. To assist in planning your commute, view live traffic conditions using QuickMap and planned lane closures. For those with sensory disabilities requiring alternate formats (i.e., Braille, large print, sign language interpreter, etc.) and those needing information in a language other than English, please contact Caltrans Public Affairs at 909383-4631 or TTY.

Seeking To Rent

I’m an active, healthy woman who is seeking to rent a first floor unfurnished/ furnished bedroom and private bathroom in a quiet, residential home. I need to stay in North County San Diego for work purposes. I have enjoyed being a tenant as a congenial, quiet and non-intrusive housemate for a number of years. I am organized, clean, non-smoking, and make timely rent payments. I have excellent references and good credit. I look forward to hearing from you. Please call me or email me. Patricia (Trish) pkidd816@ gmail.com (760) 468-5716

Services Offered

Anza Valley Outlook and Valley News Published weekly Mail to Corporate Office 111 W.

www.myvalleynews.com OUR E-MAIL ADDRESSES: valleyeditor@reedermedia.com info@reedermedia.com sales@reedermedia.com circulation@reedermedia.com

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Anza’s annual Community Easter Egg Hunt entertains many children

toddler scours the

Diane Sieker

Staff Writer

Over 30 civic groups, businesses and churches and countless volunteers, united to present Anza’s annual

Community Easter Egg Hunt at the Lions Club of Anza Valley’s Minor Field gymkhana arena Saturday, April 8. The free event attracted hundreds of visitors to hunt eggs, enjoy free food, play games and shop craft

and gift vendors. The Easter Bunny, Hamilton Bobcat, local firefighters and sheriffs arrived to mingle with the crowds. Opening events included four church pastors speaking briefly about the meaning of Easter.

KOYT 97.1 Community Radio and ACIL events slated for April 22

Staff Writer

Both the Anza Civic Improvement League and KOYT 97.1 Community Radio have fun and educational events planned for Saturday, April 22.

The day begins with an Earth Day and grounds clean up at Minor Park in Anza, organized by ACIL. The event runs from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. and includes a seed exchange, crafts and games for the children and lunch for volunteers.

“Come join us at Minor Park for the festivities and bring your gardening tools to help make the park look nice for all of the community to enjoy. We hope to see you there,” ACIL director Tabitha Dawes said.

From 5 until 9 p.m., KOYT 97.1 Community Radio will present Koyote Karaoke and dinner at the Anza Community Hall. A hamburger dinner will be served for $8 and a hot dog dinner will be available for $5. Karaoke entries will be $5 each, with Community Hall/KOYT members discounted to $2. Childrens’ entries are free.

“Help support your nonprofit, all-volunteer Anza Community Hall and KOYT Radio Station,” KOYT president and programming chair Erinne Roscoe said.

The mission of the Anza Community Broadcasting KOYT 97.1 LPFM radio is to provide an inclusive public broadcasting forum to educate, inform and entertain the local community and the general public.

For more information about

Pastors Jon Runnfeldt with Valley Gospel Chapel, Mark Neer with Anza Valley Christian Fellowship, Matt Nevills with Anza Baptist Church and Kevin Watson with Living Hope delivered messages of hope before the Easter egg

hunts and games commenced. Games such as roping a rolling plastic cow, jenga and other popular activities kept children busy. Balloon artist GeriLyn

see EASTER, page D-2

Wildflower super bloom occurs in Anza

Blue, yellow and gold mix with green as Ed Wall captures the floral beauty with his camera. Anza Valley Outlook/Courtesy photo shared the colorful images with the Anza Valley Outlook.

Torrential late winter and early spring rain and snow have enhanced the annual wildflower bloom in the Anza Valley. Brilliant yellow, orange, blue and purple flowers dominate the landscape as Mother Nature swishes her colorful paintbrush among the fields and canyons.

Local winery owner Ed Wall and his wife Alice recently went on a hike in the hills surrounding their vineyards and gardens, snapping pictures of the natural beauty that surrounded them. The Walls

Springing forth from March into May, these tiny spots of color coalesce into huge meadows of contrasting purple and yellow, forming patchworks of bright and vibrant tones over the Anza Valley. The prevalent flowers forming the huge swaths of cheeriness are yellow Common Goldfields, golden poppies and purple Indian Paintbrush.

A favorite of Wall is the California poppy, blooming in many local wildlands, roadsides,

see EARTH, page D-4 see WILDFLOWERS, page D-3

A

field for eggs at Anza’s annual Community Easter Egg Hunt Saturday, April 8.

Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo

Diane Sieker

Anza Civic Improvement League director Tabitha Dawes will welcome residents to the Minor Park cleanup and Earth Day Saturday, April 22. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

EASTER from page D-1

Blanton Mellin created balloon animals for the children, the Lions Club of Anza Valley served up free hot dogs, nachos and water as KOYT 97.1 Community Radio personality Erinne Roscoe provided music and commentary.

“Many years ago, when I first moved up here, my kids and I went to Anza’s Christmas tree lighting ceremony,” organizer Christi James said. “It was magical and my kids loved it. I instantly fell in love with the community because it reminded me of what it was like growing up in a small town myself. Anza always has something to do. So many groups are constantly putting on events and the majority of the time, the events are free with the community in mind. We have the opportunity to give back to the town we live in, and what a gift that is, for all who are involved. Thank you to all of the many people who donated candy and stuffed eggs and of course the volunteers and vendors.”

Egg hunts were organized by age as the competitors searched for a total of 10,000 plastic candy-filled eggs this year.

“It was wonderful to see so many folks from different organizations and churches in the community roll up their sleeves and help to make this community event happen,” organizer Stacy Kuhns, with the About That Horse You Rode In On social group, said. “The kids and adults all had big smiles and enjoyed the day.”

The Lions Club of Anza Valley, Anza Community Hall, Anza Civic Improvement League, Living Hope Church, Valley Gospel, Anza Valley Christian Church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, High Country 4-H Club, Hamilton High School, Hamilton Elementary School, About That Horse You

serve free hot dogs

Rode in On, High Country Youth Center, ERA Realty, Anza Gas, Cali Produce, HCN Bank, Anza Apostolic Church, Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Food for the Faithful, From the Heart Christian Women’s Ministries, Lorraine’s Pet Supply, Anza Electric Cooperative, KOYT 97.1 Community Radio, Hamilton ASB, Anza Valley Christian Fellowship, Cal Fire, Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, the Anza Thimble Club and many more pitched in to make this a memorable Easter egg hunt.

“Thank you to all of the people who helped clean up the field prior to the event: Dennis McQueary with DDI Plumbing, Niel McQueary with Unstuck Towing, Leslie Price, Pastor Kevin Watson, Jazmyn McCammon with the Aanza Civic Improvement League, Robin Cambell, Lion Greg Sandling and Lion Chris Skinner,” James said.

Social media came alive with pictures of happy children and praise for the event and organizers.

“My kids range in age from 7 to 17 and they came to the event thinking they’d be bored,” Anza resident Amanda Lozano said. “They all had a great time. It was a fantastic day. Thank you very much.”

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

Parents and children prepare for the signal to rush the field scattered with plastic eggs filled with treats at Anza’s annual Community Easter Egg Hunt Saturday, April 8. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photos

Chaos ensues as toddlers are released on the hunt area at Anza’s annual Community Easter Egg Hunt.

Eggs are discovered by the tiniest of hunters at Anza’s annual Easter egg hunt. High Country 4-H sponsored a petting zoo featuring rabbits, sheep, goats and lambs at Anza’s annual event.

Vendors offer gifts, jewelry, food and plants at Anza’s annual Community Easter Egg Hunt Saturday, April 8.

The Easter Bunny hops along the bunny trail in Anza on Saturday, April 8.

Lions Club of Anza Valley president Greg Sandling, left, and secretary Chris Skinner, along with other Lions,

and nachos at Anza’s annual Community Easter Egg Hunt.

Riverside County Department of Animal Services plans patrols in Anza for roaming dogs

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

In response to concerns by residents about a recent incident involving roaming dogs harming livestock in Anza, Riverside County Department of Animal Services will be patrolling the area for free-ranging dogs.

According to the Department, there will be an increased presence of Riverside County Animal Services’ officers in the Anza region.

Any free roaming dogs found will be picked up by officers. If the dogs are not wearing identification tags, are not microchipped and an owner cannot be contacted, they will be transported to a Riverside County animal shelter facility. For safety, and due to the characteristics of the landscape, it may be necessary for Animal Control officers to use tranquilizers to capture dogs.

Residents can play a role in reducing the stray dog population by making sure their pets are licensed, spayed/neutered and tagged/microchipped so that they

may safely be returned home should they become lost or loose, advised the Department.

California law and a county ordinance requires that pet dogs must be secured in a yard, vaccinated for rabies and microchipped.

Additionally, Riverside County Department of Animal Services would like to ensure the following information is available to all constituents:

“The Department has a fulltime dedicated officer who responds to calls in Anza. Calls for service may be requested during the normal business hours of 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday by calling 951358-7387. If a stray can be safely contained, please contain them, and call the Animal Services office immediately.”

If stray dogs cannot be contained safely, or are a repeated nuisance, the Department has dog traps available that can be loaned out to residents free of charge with all supplies included. An officer will help set up the trap and pick it up when no longer needed. Please contact

Stray dogs like this feral pack will be the target of a Riverside County Department of Animal Services sweep in the Anza Valley in the coming weeks. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo Animal Services at 951-3587387 to request a trap. Please call or email

shelterinfo@rivco.org with any questions or concerns. Diane Sieker can be reached by

email at dsieker@reedermedia. com

WILDFLOWERS from page D-4 pastures and fields. The golden petals of the official state flower of California heralds springtime and mild weather to come.

Ed Wall snaps Common Goldfield flowers carpeting a meadow in Anza. Anza Valley Outlook/Courtesy photo

California poppies are one of Ed Wall’s favorite wildflower subjects.

Ed Wall gets a rare picture of a bee buried head first in a flower. Flowers mix with cactus and sugarbush in a photo by Ed Wall.

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

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

Hamilton Museum – 10 a.m.

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

Backcountry Horsemen

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

Health, exercise, resources and recovery meetings

Fit after 50 – 10:30-11t: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 posttraumatic stress disorder and other difficulties. Call John Sheehan at 951-923-6153. If you need an advocate to help with VA benefits, call Ronnie Imel at 951-659-9884.

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

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

Alcoholics Anonymous – 8 p.m. Wednesday evenings at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 56095 Pena Road in Anza. For more information, call 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 951-5512826.

Free Mobile Health Clinic

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

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

For more information, call 951763-4759.

Food ministries

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

Living Hope Christian Fellowship Community Dinner

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

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

Bible Studies

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

Native Lighthouse Fellowship

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

Living Hope Bible Study –8-10 a.m. Tuesdays at Living Hope Christian Fellowship, 58050 Highway 371, in Anza. All are welcome. For more information, call Pastor Kevin at 951-763-1111. Anza RV Clubhouse – 7 p.m., the second Wednesday of the Month, Pastor Kevin officiates at 41560 Terwilliger Road in Anza. Monthly Christian Men’s Breakfast – 9 a.m. Breakfast takes place the fourth Saturday of each month and rotates to different locations. Contact Jeff Crawley at 951-763-1257 for more information.

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

Valley Gospel Chapel – 7 a.m. Saturday Men’s Study meets

weekly with breakfast usually served at 43275 Chapman Road in the Terwilliger area of Anza. For more information, call 951763-4622.

Anza First Southern Baptist Church - Begin your week with Sunday School for all ages at 9 a.m., followed by Sunday morning worship at 10:30 a.m. On Sunday nights, the church has prayer on the 1st and 4th Sundays from 6-7 p.m. and Bible study on the 2nd and 3rd Sundays from 6-8 p.m. On Monday evenings, from 6-8 p.m., the youth group (6th to 12th grade) meets for games and Bible study.

Anza Baptist Church also offers Men’s and Women’s Ministries, a Homeschool Support Group, Summer Vacation Bible School, and Senior’s Ministry. The church office is open Wednesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The church is located at 39200 Rolling Hills Road in Anza. For more information, contact the church at 951-763-4937 or visit www. anzabaptistchurch.com

Clubs Anza Valley VFW Post 1873

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

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

Anza Valley Artists Meetings – 1 p.m. Meetings are the third Saturday of each month at various locations. Share art, ideas and participate in shows. Guest speakers are always needed. For more information, call president Rosie Grindle at 951-928-1248. Find helpful art tips at http://www. facebook.com/AnzaValleyArtists/ Anza Quilter’s Club – 9:30 a.m. to noon. Meets the first and third Tuesday of each month at the Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 56095 Pena Road, in Anza.

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

Boy Scouts Troop 319 – Cub Scouts meet 6 p.m. every Tuesday, and Boy Scouts meet 7 p.m. every Wednesday at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day

Saints on Contreras Road, south of state Route 371, in Anza. For more information, call Richard Hotchkiss at 951-551-3154.

Boys Scouts Troop 371 – Boy Scouts meet at Lake Riverside Estates. For more information, call Ginny Kinser at 909-702-7902.

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

Fire Explorer Program – 6 p.m. The program meets every second, third and fourth Tuesday of the month at Fire Station 29 on state Route 371 in Anza. Call 951763-5611 for information.

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

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

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

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

Anza Community Hall – 7 p.m. General membership meetings are held the fourth Thursday of the month. Memberships cost $20 per person or $35 per business, and both get one vote. No government funds are allocated for the Hall, which pays its bills through memberships and swap meets. Voting members receive discounts off hall rentals, swap meet booths and save on propane gas from Ferrellgas. Mail membership to: Anza Community Building Inc. at P.O. Box 390091, Anza, CA 92539. The hall is located at 56630 Highway 371 in Anza. Swap meet held each Saturday of the month, weather permitting, early morning to 1 p.m. Vendors wanted. For more information, call 951-2824267.

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

EARTH from page D-1 the radio station, call 951-7635698, email info@koyt971.org or visit them at www.facebook.com/ koyt97.1 or https://koyt971.org.

To learn more about upcoming ACIL events, visit them at www.facebook.com/ AnzaCivicImprovementLeague or www.anzacivic.org , or write PO Box 391000, Anza, CA 92539, call 951-330-4411, or email anzacivic@gmail.com

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

what many perceive as a hate crime with a death threat towards three students.

According to Sergeant Wenndy Brito-Gonzalez with the RCSO Media Information Bureau, deputies from the Hemet Sheriff’s Station received a report of a past graffiti vandalism in the 57400 block of Mitchell Road in Anza Monday. April 10.

“It was reported the incident occurred on Thursday, April 6,” said Brito-Gonzalez. “By the time the report was made, the graffiti had been cleaned up, however, photographs were taken and turned over to deputies. Investigators are taking over the investigation and no additional details are available at the moment.”

Parents took to social media to ask why they had not been notified of the perceived hate speech sprayed on walls and the driveways of the elementary school.

“I was told that the school wasn’t sure if they were going to notify the parents because they didn’t want to scare us,” said Jamie Thein, mother of three students enrolled in Hamilton schools. “It’s incidents like this that make me lose trust in our school.”

Jeremy Parsons, Governing Board member with the Hemet Unified School District representing Trustee Area 7, told the Anza Valley Outlook, “There is a criminal and a school investigation in progress regarding the tagging over spring break.”

It was late afternoon on Monday when the school’s principal Alyssa King sent out a statement to parents regarding the incident.

“Over break we had some graffiti happen on campus. It was handled swiftly and continues to be investigated. We have KTLA 5 news here today. If you are approached please direct all media questions to Sonia Ramirez at the district office,” she wrote.

Almost simultaneously, the HUSD emailed additional information.

“We regret to inform you that Hamilton School experienced an act of vandalism on April 4 over Spring break. The vandalism resulted in damages to some of the school’s property and involved disturbing language. The school was made aware of the incident on April 5 and law enforcement was contacted the same day,” the email stated.

But the Sheriff’s department reported that the incident occurred on April 6 and was reported to them April 10. Such discrepancies have caused parents even more concern.

“We got text messages from other parents Friday with the pics of the

graffiti,” said Jason Imbimbo. He continued, “The Sheriff’s department was not called until today. All of the graffiti was cleaned up last week before reporting the hate crime and school shooting threat. The principal had all the evidence destroyed before reporting the crime in what I think was the intent to sweep this under the rug. The Sheriff was contacted only after parents started asking questions this morning. There were three students named in the graffiti. The school never contacted staff or parents to inform them of this incident, and there was no police presence at either the high school or elementary school. A parent asked the Hamilton Elementary principal this morning what was being done. She said there was no threat. TV station reporters were in front of Hamilton Elementary interviewing parents this afternoon.”

The District assured families that all was well.

“There is currently an active investigation underway by the Riverside Sheriff’s Department. We take all matters such as these very seriously and want to assure you that we

are dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of our students and staff,” the district email said. “We ask for your cooperation and support during this time. If you have any information regarding the incident, please do not hesitate to contact the Riverside Sheriff’s Department.” Parents are not satisfied and continue to ask questions. They are not convinced that the shocking racist words, swastikas and death threat graffiti are being handled appropriately by the HUSD or the school.

“I find it disturbing that parents and staff weren’t informed and there is no police presence. Especially since 3 students were specifically named in graffiti that said ‘ya’ll finna die’,” said Imbimbo.

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

If you have information regarding this crime, please contact the River-

side County Sheriff’s Department at 951-791-3400 or Non-Emergency Dispatch at 951-776-1099.

Criminal activity can also be reported through the We-Tip Crime Reporting Hotline, 909-987-5005 or

https://wetip.com

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

Newsom continues to cut press access while lecturing Red States on ‘Campaign for Democracy’

Julie Reeder Publisher

This week I am forfeiting much of my editorial space to CalMatters. They have done an excellent job of documenting the frustrations of journalists up and down the state in dealing with Gov. Newsom’s office and administration. This is left leaning and right leaning journalists with specific examples of how they are being stonewalled. This piece is only 30% of the entire story which can be read in its entirety online at MyValleyNews. com and VillageNews.com.

This is important right now because as Gavin Newsom left his duties in California behind and went on his pre-presidential announcement tour, he is accusing, lecturing and telling all the Red States how they should be more like California. All the while, he and his administration and state agencies continue to stonewall journalists, not giving them access to information they need to do their jobs.

Who does he think he’s kidding here?

He knows journalists can’t do their righful jobs if we aren’t given access to him, government, information, reports, meetings, etc. We can’t expose to what degree our state is failing either, which is the first step to make it better.

Under his control, not only were many authoritarian-style mandates instituted under the guise of COVID-19 which have had to be overturned in courts,

but also our homeless problem has exploded, crime has spiked, school grades have dropped after keeping children who have little to no risk of dying from COVID-19 at home, taxes have increased, and Californians have lost civil liberties, civil rights, etc. While he and the Democratic super controlled majority passes an unprecedented amount of bad legislation.

He has driven a record number of residents from the state to other free Red States like Florida, Idaho and Texas that are doing much better. For the first time, California has less residents than it had last year.

Red states know better. They understand that crime should still be illegal. Criminals have become more violent and brazen, largely because of decriminalization laws in the bigger cities, the backlog of criminal court cases and the number of cases dismissed. Then there’s the crack down on legal activities which don’t fall in line with leftist ideologies, so innocent people are punished.

It’s more important than ever that journalists have their 1st Amendment rights to have access to Gov. Newsom, his administration and state agencies.

The Campaign for Democracy?

You have to be kidding me.

It’s what he says he’s fighting against in the Red States that he is perpetrating in California. Or is he encouraging a civil war by accusting the Red States of what he is bringing about in California?

He is the picture of authoritarianism control in a one party state, shutting down personal freedoms, liberty, civil rights, democracy and the freedom to control what goes into your own body.

A failure to communicate: California government cuts back press access

Alexei Koseff CalMatters

Like so much else about California, its state government is large: A $300 billion budget. More than 230 departments and agencies. More than 234,000 employees. Keeping the public apprised of everything that’s happening in that massive bureaucracy requires its own small army of communications staff, who craft messages, write press releases and answer questions from journalists covering everything from the governor to welfare programs, prisons to water policy.

Lately, however, the information isn’t flowing as freely — raising transparency concerns among the press corps that acts as a watchdog for Californians. Last month, the Capitol Correspondents Association of

California, which represents journalists who cover the state Capitol and advocates for improved press access, distributed guidelines to its members about how to handle some of the increasingly common hurdles they encounter, including government agencies asking for questions in advance and refusing to attribute information to their spokespeople.

Ashley Zavala, president of the correspondents association who covers state government and politics for Sacramento television station KCRA, said the extraordinary step was prompted by years of complaints from Capitol press about problems reporting on Gov. Gavin Newsom, his administration and the Legislature. These have been exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic, which accelerated a shift to digital communication that has transformed how the state government discloses its work.

“The pandemic did cause some bad behavior,” Zavala said. “It let some of these agencies and some of these offices get lackadaisical in how they handled the media.”

Many of the standard features of government beat reporting — including in-person press conferences, with an opportunity for follow-up questions, and media phone lines where journalists could talk to a live staffer — disappeared three years ago with the shutdown orders and have been slow to return, if at all.

Changes that reporters and public information officers adopted to do their jobs virtually in a strange new stay-at-home world became ingrained, encouraging practices, such as written statements instead of interviews, that offer less clarity and greater distance between state government and the people it serves.

see NEWSOM, page D-6

Graffiti sprayed at Hamilton Elementary School in Anza consists of racist symbols and words and what many perceive as a death threat towards three students. Anza Valley Outlook/Courtesy photos

Editor’s note: The accompanying photographs contain language or imagery that may upset or offend some people.

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