Valley News - April 28, 2023

Women receive life sentences for robbing, killing senior at Pechanga Resort

City News Service Special to Valley News

Two women who robbed and fatally assaulted an octogenarian in a restroom of the Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula were both sentenced Friday, April 21 to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

Caltrans introducing new highway signs across California; first in six years

Tony Ault Staff Writer

Motorists will soon see Caltrans’ new “Rebuilding CA” highway signs highlighting the record levels of state and federal infrastructure funding being put to work on projects statewide to create a safer, more sustainable and more resilient transportation system.

Menifee’s Outstanding Citizen of the Year serves several communities

Diane A. Rhodes

Special to Valley News

Community service has always been second nature to Paige Stowe. The 14-year-old has been volunteering for so long she can’t even recall the first time she helped out. “It’s just something that has always been part of my life,” she said. In October 2022, she was chosen as Menifee’s Outstanding Citizen of the Month after being nominated by City Councilmember Lesa Sobek.

“I chose Paige for all of the charity work she has done and been involved with for many years, starting in elementary school,” Sobek said. “She is an example to all of us on what it means to put service above self. At her young age, Paige has learned one of the most important

Donate Life flag honoring organ donation is raised at Rancho Springs Medical Center

The Menifee 2022 Outstanding Citizen of the Year is honored at January’s City Council meeting. From left, Councilmember Dean Deines, Councilmember Ricky Estrada, Councilmember Lesa Sobek, honoree Paige Stowe, Liberty High School Principal Erika Tejeda, Mayor Bill Zimmerman and Mayor Pro Tem Bob Karwin. Valley News/Courtesy photo

family of Lance Chavez gather

Teachers, conservationists and and others attend a Nature Education Resource Forum at the Santa Rosa Plateau

Tony Ault

Staff Writer

Local school teachers, those dedicated to preserving nature, students and others joined together at the Nature Education Resource Forum sponsored by the Nature Education Foundation at the Santa Rosa Plateau April 22.

Presenters at the forum included NEF Education Manager Marianne Lancaster, Chair of the NEF Foundation Committee Ginny Kishbauch and CEO Of the NEF Ginger Greaves.

More than 60 people attended the forum designed to help teachers and others to better understand and teach nature preservation to students and the general public, especially climate change amid a growing human population.

“What we are really trying to do today is to promote citizen scientists, sometimes known as community scientists, with our keynote speaker, (Krystie Hickman) who is not a trained scientist, but rather a person who is self-trained about everything there is to know about native bees. She’s a fine example of how everyday citizens and children in elementary classes can become real scientists,” Lancaster said.

In that same thought she said NEF at the plateau is also working with two local high schools pioneering a program called “Nature’s Notebook.” The program features a team of students responsible for observing five different plant species and different animal species on the plateau, and how climate change is affecting their survival. Their data is shared in their classroom and on the internet. The programs now are at NuView Bridge High School and Hemet’s Western Center Academy with more planned.

The teachers were learning more about being community scientists simply by going outside in their own backyard and making their observations in that setting. The hope is for those teachers to employ other such programs in their schools.

The forum attendees also had the opportunity to take a tour of the Cedar Dove Ranch and observe how its owners are employing all means possible to promote the growth of native plants and better care for their animals naturally along with the land they graze. They had the opportunity to see an organic garden on the ranch growing fruits and vegetables used by

the owners and neighbors. In her keynote address, “Bee Lady” Hickman relayed information on how she studied and photographed many of the native bee species in the area and what specific plants they pollinate. She relayed the fact that there is no shortage of the common honeybee found in homes and farms as they are considered more of a domestic animal or insect but there is indeed the loss of many native bees because of the growing human population and climate change.

The forum encouraged conversation circles with colleagues to connect and share resources.

The NEF at the Santa Rosa Plateau is dedicated to “Fostering youth environmental stewardship by educating and empowering youth to appreciate and preserve and protect nature.” Membership is open to all interested in that goal and can find information on joining at srpnef.org or by visiting the Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Center Visitors Center for applications. Membership to the nonprofit foundation is $35 for individuals and up to $1,000 for Plateau Patrons with dues used for educating youth.

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

Leading a discussion at the Nature Education Resource Forum on how to better teach science students about the value of retaining land, plants and animals in nature is retired Murrieta Valley Unified School District Superintendent Guy Romero. Valley News/Tony Ault photos

Live native plants are displayed for teachers at the Nature Education Resource Forum sponsored by Santa Rosa Plateau’s Nature Education Forum at the Cedar Dove Ranch in La Cresta, April 22.

As the keynote speaker, Krystie Hickman, sometimes referred to as the “Bee Lady,” talks to teachers and students about the pollinating honeybees and different bee species at the Nature Education Resource Forum.

Teachers, students and nature-loving attendees to the Nature Education Resource Forum see busy honeybees at work making honey and cooling the hive at the special event, April 22.

Kyle Johnson from the Cedar Dove and Perfect Chaos ranches in La Cresta, who prides himself and his family as community scientists determined to keep nature as it is expected to be, talks at the Nature Education Resource Forum for teachers and students.

Rob Hicks, Riverside County Parks Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve, talks to a class at the Nature Education Resource Forum about the native plants found and attempting to be revived at the Plateau and many once used by Native Americans as medicine and food source.

Murrieta Fire & Rescue provides community risk assessment, possible solutions

Tony Ault Staff Writer

The Murrieta City Council met in a workshop to review an update from Murrieta Fire & Rescue on a community risk assessment, and during the regular meeting, the council looked at the statemandated annual fire inspections among other businesses Tuesday, April 18.

Fire Chief Bernard Molloy led the department’s community risk assessment and shared how it might improve its current deployments and services to the public. The lengthy document showed in detail where and how the department’s calls were handled during the past five years and listed the issues of concern and possible improvements.

Among the concerns, the de-

partment does not meet the current response time on calls as provided in the city’s General Plan; Emergency Medical Dispatch has increased call handling time; the Emergency Medical dispatch time needs to improve; the current automatic aid agreement is not sufficient to take advantage of updated technology available and data analytics training is lacking in redundancy.

Molloy presented some possible ways to overcome the deficiencies by the city. He sought to improve response times in the Hunter Road area and the upper east side of the city. He suggested the city begin the process to open a new station on the east side, which encompasses some of French Valley. In that respect, he said the city should negotiate new automatic aid agreements.

In the other suggestions, he said the department needed to look into modern traffic preemption systems. He suggested monitoring the new dispatch system to find ways to improve them and sought better EMD training for the paramedics and for the dispatchers as well. He said the department needed more training in doing risk assessments in prevention and suppression and needed to refine the current software. He said all the improvement requests were being reviewed and would be placed in the city’s new departmental budget requests.

The council heard the report and expressed their concern for having better fire services in the east side of the city. City Manager Kim Summers said there are plans for a new Station 6 in the

east side of the city which would be forwarded to the council soon.

The complete video presentation of the 165-page document can be found on the city fire department’s website.

In regular city council business Mayor Pro Tem Lori Stone was excused because of illness.

The four remaining members took time to honor the volunteer city commissioners for providing their services for the community.

The council, without comment, approved nine consent items and continued on with a public hearing on the Appeal for a Development Plan Permit for the Sandstone Valley Apartments which was continued until Tuesday, May 16.

The council discussed the state-mandated Senate Bill 1205 annual fire inspection compliance

RCWD adopts Vail Dam modification EIR

Joe Naiman Writer

The Rancho California Water District is planning what is called the Vail Dam Seismic and Hydrologic Remediation Project in order to remediate seismic and hydrologic hazards associated with the existing Vail Dam. The project would include construction of a straight-axis concrete gravity dam structure immediately downstream of the existing arch dam, partial demolition of the existing dam, and improvements to support construction and operation of the new dam. These would include improvements to on-site access roads, provision for construction staging and material disposal areas, and electrical utility relocations. On April 13 the RCWD board voted 7-0 to adopt the final Environmental Impact Report for

the Vail Dam Seismic and Hydrologic Remediation Project.

The board action adopts a resolution adopting the environmental findings required in the California Environmental Quality Act, certifies the final Environmental Impact Report, adopts a Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program, adopts a Statement of Overriding Consideration and approves the project. The draft EIR had been released on Dec. 19 for a 45-day public comment period which ended Feb. 3, and the only comment received was from the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians which stated that the project was located outside of their traditional use area and deferred to local Tribes. No revisions to the EIR were required based on the comment received.

Remediation of seismic and hydrologic hazards would allow the

Rancho California Water District to increase the reservoir level up to the spillway elevation. Vail Lake is used for recreational purposes and is visible from public areas. Public views of Vail Dam include the abutments and parapet walls and portions of the dam above the current water level which are visible along the edges of Vail Lake and the recreational trails surrounding Vail Lake. The Vail Dam Seismic and Hydrologic Remediation Project would replace an existing dam and would not impede or obstruct existing views from Vail Lake or the surrounding recreational trails. The faces of both the existing arch dam and the proposed gravity dam would be primarily visible from the canyon below the dam, which is not accessible to the public. The area surrounding the dam is undeveloped, and the face of the

existing dam is not visible from residential or commercial areas. The proposed gravity dam would thus not result in a substantial change to a scenic vista.

The Vail Dam Seismic and Hydrologic Remediation Project would include security lighting as appropriate. The dam site is within Zone A of the Mount Palomar Lighting Zone (areas within 0 to 15 miles of the Palomar Observatory), and the security lighting would be selected and installed in accordance with County of Riverside light pollution regulations applicable to Zone A. Security lighting would be directed downward or appropriately shielded and would not result in visible glare in the surrounding areas. The security lighting would be similar to existing conditions and is not expected to affect wildlife.

Construction of the Vail Dam

report with Molloy. The inspection compliance is reported to the council and the state each year. Molloy said Murrieta’s report is in complete compliance with the mandate. He said during the year the department inspected 35 schools, five hotels and 335 multi-family residences for 100% compliance.

The fire chief thanked the city for allowing resources to meet the mandate that takes a considerable amount of staff time. The council received and filed the report.

The council meeting concluded with Mayor Lisa DeForest and the council honoring Karlee Meyer, a Hemet City Council member who died of cancer earlier in the week.

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

Seismic and Hydrologic Remediation Project could require approximately 31 months total and would use a variety of heavy equipment and vehicles. Electrical energy will be supplied to the construction site during construction activities through the operation of diesel-fired generators.

Menifee City Council and Community Services thanks sponsors of The Wall That Heals visit

Tony Ault Staff Writer

The Menifee City Council in a short meeting Wednesday, April 19, thanked many veterans, veterans’ groups and volunteers for helping bring the three-quarter size Vietnam War memorial replica “The Wall that Heals” to the city.

The event, held at the Miller Jones Mortuary and Memorial Garden over five days, drew more than 300 Vietnam veterans, many families and others who paid their respects to fellow soldiers lost in the war. The event was highlighted by a Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans special event held at the wall display on April 6, that the council

CITIZEN from page A-1

secrets of having a happy life, love of neighbor.”

Her monthly recognition qualified Paige to be considered for the Outstanding Citizen of the Year award. She was ultimately chosen by the city’s Citizen Advisory Committee among the 11 other honorees, who were all adults. “I was very surprised and honored to have won the award,” Paige said. “I don’t understand how I could have won over so many adults that do so much good for our community.”

Paige’s mother, Leeann Stowe, is a stay-at-home mother that has always been part of her five children’s schools. She said this is the first time in 15 school years that she is not serving on the Callie Kirkpatrick PTA. Paige’s father, Gregory Stowe, is Vice President of Operations for his family-owned janitorial franchising system, Octoclean.

“P aige is someone who will always give until she has no more to give,” Leeann said. “She loves to help others anyway she can. That could be helping someone with schoolwork, a teacher that needs help or a lost child at Disneyland; they always find her. I think helping others helps her see the world in a better place.”

The Liberty High School freshman has always been at her parents’ side, whether it was volunteering at the family’s church or assisting her older sisters with their Girl Scouts’ projects. She eventually became an American Legion Auxiliary member and helps with many programs and

said they hope to bring to the city every year.

Three special sponsors who gave $1,000 to The Wall That Heals program were recognized by the Menifee Community Services Department. They were Briseno Law Firm, Get Loaded Guns and Ammo and Clark Construction Group who is also building the Menifee Justice Center. Their donations helped with lighting, generators and setup for visitors to see the Wall 24 hours each day it was open.

The Council also recognized teacher Heather Rickman as the Menifee Outstanding Citizen of the Month. Rickman is active in many nonprofit groups in the

projects that assist veterans.

Paige’s father was in the Army and Navy, her maternal grandfather served in Vietnam and other family members on both sides of the family have served in the military.

Leeann said the first big thing she recalls Paige wanting to do was work with the Honoring Our Fallen project after Marine Corps Sgt. Eric M. Seaman died in a helicopter crash while on a relief mission in Nepal. Paige was among those who were on hand to honor the fallen Marine as his body was returned home to Murrieta and she then sent gifts to his family. The month she participated in that event in June of 2015, Paige turned seven years old.

This is around the time Sobek first met Paige, who was attending city events as a reigning representative of community service-based pageants, including as USA Ambassador Preteen Miss Southern California. She participated in pageants for many years where she won the Success through Leadership, Integrity, Character and Confidence award three times.

Menifee’s outstanding citizen nominees must possess leadership skills, have a positive impact and commitment to the community and be actively involved in g iving back to the community through volunteerism or other nonprofit organizations. Sobek wrote in her nomination application for Paige that she “always strives to make the world a better place around her for others.” She has made a positive impact

city including MilVet, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1508, RAD services and other groups. She was nominated by Council Member Ricky Estrada. Los Jilbertos Taco Shop, which set up shop in Menifee only one year ago, was placed in the City’s Business Spotlight for the month.

The taco shop takes part in many Menifee events and serves authentic Mexican food. It is located at 37511 McCall Blvd. and is visited by many local business leaders.

Cal Fire Captain Bill Law from the Menifee Fire Department made his quarterly update before the council. He noted in the three-month period from January through March the department an-

swered 3,282 calls, mostly medical services, responded to 13 structure fires and responded to a number of traffic accidents with the Menifee Police Department.

In general business, the council approved 17 previously discussed consent items and gave their approval to a resolution to the formation of a Community Facilities District at Cimarron Ridge that will provide bonded indebtedness for the development in the city for needed infrastructure and other items through a special tax to the new homeowners over time.

In the consent calendar items, the council gave its final approval to adopt an amendment to the city’s Development Code to add

provisions to review its progress in providing 20% of its new homes and multifamily units to low to moderately low income families as required by state law. California approved the city’s efforts in working to meet those goals and approved the new Housing Element while many other cities in the state are falling behind in their efforts. The council also terminated the COVID-19 Local Emergency executive orders related to the pandemic which was earlier lifted by the nation and the state. Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com.

Paige Stowe volunteers at a 9/11 remembrance event in Menifee, September 2022. Valley News/Courtesy photo

on others and is selfless and inclusive.

In 2018, Paige and her family began working with PossAbilities at Loma Linda University Health, which is a nonprofit, community outreach program that provides those with permanent physical disabilities and veterans free support and resources to stay active and healthy in life. “They do so many wonderful things for people,” Leeann said. Paige serves as a youth ambassador for the program.

Paige’s interests are varied, and her school has also benefited from her volunteerism. She is active with the girls’ golf team and is in the theater department’s production of “The SpongeBob Musical.” She has plans to help Big Brothers, Big Sisters with a few things and possibly some things at her church soon. Her mother said Paige loves spending time volunteering at two of her “happy places” – the local library and Animal Friends of the Valleys.

Already with her eyes to the future, Paige said she would love to attend Virginia Tech after high school graduation to study geology. “I love rocks and everything about them,” she said. “My sister and I joke that we will make a TV show about rocks together when

we are both done with school.”

Leeann said, “Our whole family finds it important to give back. Thinking of others helps you not be so in your head about what you have going on. When you go to a Homes for Our Troops event and help put a huge yard in with hundreds of others in just a few hours, it’s hard to be unhappy with your life; it helps with depression and whatever else you have going on.”

Pa ige said she enjoys going anywhere there is a need for a helping hand. “I like to see people smile and do something to make their day just a little better,” she said.

For more information, www. hfotusa.org, https://teampossabilities.org and https://usaambassador.com

Supervisors convey aerial easement to SCE for Salt Creek Channel

Joe Naiman Writer

Last year the Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District approved an easement agreement allowing Southern California Edison to use two district-owned legal parcels along Salt Creek Channel for a new subtransmission line. The Riverside County Board of Supervisors, whose board members are also the board of the Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District, voted 5-0 Tuesday, April 4, to approve an aerial overhang easement agreement with SCE. The easement area totals approximately 27,661 square feet. The properties are parallel to Leon Road between Olive Avenue and Domenigoni Parkway. SCE plans to construct a 27-mile electric 115,000-volt subtransmission line from the Valley substation in Menifee to the Ivyglen substation in unincorporated Temescal Valley. The California Public Utilities Commission has already given SCE a permit to construct, and SCE is currently obtaining the necessary right of way for the subtransmission line.

A 5-0 district board vote in August 2022 approved the conveyance of the easement along two

legal parcels to SCE. Although the flood control district conveyed the easement at no cost, SCE is responsible for all processing charges. SCE will use the easement area to construct, operate and maintain power poles as well as the transmission lines. Flood control district staff had determined that conveying the easement interest would not interfere with the district’s necessary use for the property.

SCE will pay the flood control district $21,000 for the aerial overhang easement. The utility may construct, operate, use, maintain, alter, add, reconstruct, enlarge, repair, renew, replace, inspect, improve, relocate and/or remove electrical systems consisting of crossarms, wires and other fixtures and appliances with necessary equipment for conveying electric energy.

The flood control district board also found that the easement conveyance itself will not have a significant adverse effect on the environment and that any potentially significant environmental effects have been adequately analyzed in the environmental impact report for the Valley-Ivyglen and Alberhill substation projects. Joe Naiman can be reached by email jnaiman@reedermedia.com.

MilVet joins Carry the Load fundraising walk from Riverside National Cemetery May 11

Tony Ault Staff Writer

MilVet will join Carry The Load, a nonprofit partner for the 2023 Memorial Day campaign, with plans to participate in a 3.6mile walk from Riverside National Cemetery to Riverside City Fire Station No. 13.

This year’s event is scheduled for Thursday, May 11, at 5:15 p.m. MilVet is a nonprofit headquartered in Menifee that sends gifts and necessities to troops deployed overseas and helps their families living in the community.

“As a part of Carry The Load’s Continuum of Care program, this partnership helps raise awareness and funds that are vital to helping support and care for our military, veterans and their families,” MilVet CEO Raven Hilden said. “MilVet will have Gold Star mothers, each of who lost a child, joining us to keep their memory alive. We will have our MilVet Juniors participating too, so all children are welcome to join.”

Supporters are encouraged to join MilVet’s team and participate in the event to raise funds throughout the month of May, with 100%

of funds raised through MilVet’s team page now through Memorial Day going directly back to the organization to provide essential services for veterans and activeduty military men and women. To participate, go to carrytheload.org/ goto/milvetorg.

Those who register for this year’s event need not participate in the walk or even attend the event but are more than welcome to join if they are able to, according to Hilden, who adds, “Whether you choose to join us in the walk or simply help by raising muchneeded funds and awareness,

we encourage you to join us in honoring and remembering those who sacrificed so much for our freedom.”

All registrants with donations of $35 or more will have a Carry the Load t-shirt mailed to them.

“We exist to unite the country through one common purpose of honoring the lives of those who have gone before us,” Stephen Holley, co-founder, president and CEO of Carry The Load and veteran U.S. Navy SEAL, said. “This spirit of collaboration among our nonprofit partners helps improve the lives of so many today and for

years to come.”

Carry The Load is a 501(c)3 nonprofit founded in 2011 by veteran U.S. Navy SEALs Clint Bruce and Stephen Holley. Carry The Load’s mission is to provide active ways to honor and remember the sacrifices made by our military, veterans, first responders and their families. It focuses on three outreach programs: Awareness, Continuum of Care and Education.

Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com

Menifee’s Sun City Park Project receives $524,000 from Urban Greening Grant Program

MENIFEE – Residents of the Sun City community in Menifee will soon have a new place to play. The California Natural Resources Agency recently awarded Menifee’s Sun City Park project with a $524,700 grant as part of the Urban Greening Grant Program, which provided funding to 22 other projects across the state. Projects were selected based on their ability to create more sustainable communities by using natural and green infrastructure approaches.

Menifee’s Sun City Park will be a new 1.87-acre park located adjacent to Faith Lutheran Church on Portsmouth Drive. Key features include a quarter-mile walking path, solar walkway lighting, water-efficient landscaping, a rose garden and covered age-appropriate workout stations. The park will also include benches, drinking fountains and trash cans with dog bag dispensers.

“This park will be a great addition to the Sun City community

Man shot several times in officer involved shooting in Fallbrook

and provides a great outdoor space for our residents to enjoy,” Mayor Pro Tem Bob Karwin said. “City staff did an amazing job to secure this competitive funding grant and bring state dollars here for the benefit of Menifee.”

Senior staff from the Community Services Department, along with members of the Parks, Recreation and Trails Commission and the Senior Advisory Committee met with state officials in November to provide background on the project

and to tour the proposed site. After finalizing their review in April, the CNRA announced Menifee as one of the grant recipients.

CNRA was allocated $50 million from the general fund by Senate Bill 170 to fund projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and provide multiple benefits to Californians, including expanding access to parks and green spaces in communities across the state.

Benefits of Sun City Park that align with CNRA’s requirements

include the expansion of tree canopies, park accessibility within walking distance of residents, and the addition of free recreational amenities, among others.

Sun City Park is expected to take approximately 18 months to complete from land acquisition to full construction. For more information, contact the Community Services Department at 951-7233880 or by email at communityservices@cityofmenifee.us

Submitted by city of Menifee.

Editorial Department Valley News Staff

A call for service in Rainbow from the wife of a man making suicidal threats, was answered by Fallbrook Sheriffs just before 1 a.m. this morning to the 4900 block of White Lilac Road. A Hispanic man in his 40s produced a rifle with a scope.

The incident resulted in the officer shooting the suspect several times, according to San Diego Police Lt. Steve Shebloski, who gave a press conference this morning. The suspect was transported to a local trauma center and was currently undergoing surgery. His condition or where he was shot is unknown at this time. There don’t appear to be any other casualties. There were two children in the home at the time of the shooting, a girl aged 5 and a boy 9 years old. Both children and the officers were unharmed.

During the response, a “Shots fired/Officer Involved Shooting” call went out. Deputies from neighboring cities responded code 3 with lights and sirens. The suspect was transported to a local trauma center in an unknown condition.

San Diego Police Lieutenant Steve Shebloski spoke with the media at a press conference at Rainbow Oaks Restaurant at 6:40 a.m. this morning. The officer involved in the shooting is believed to be placed on paid administra-

tive leave while the investigation continues.

Jason Kendall from Kendall Farms issued this statement to Village News. “We had a tenant at one of the houses we rent on the farm (non-employee), last night who was distraught and armed and was shot by deputies during an incident. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, and the officers involved, and we wish him a speedy and thorough recovery. Kendall Farms is a tight-knit family and we are doing everything we can to support his family during this tragedy. This is obviously devastating, not only to this man’s family but to our entire company. We are thankful that there were no additional casualties.”

Troy Connor, who manages the Kendall Farms business, clarified that “While the incident did occur on the farm, it was at a rental house near the western edge, but the individual involved is not an employee or related to any of the operations of the farm. This rental home is managed by an outside, third-party, rental property management company. We don’t have any direct contact with the tenant or their family.” He said they have offered full cooperation with the Sheriff’s Department but nothing has been needed from them at this time.

Connor also reiterated that their “hearts go out to the family as well as the deputy in this difficult time.”

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

San Diego Sheriff’s deputies roped off the entrance to Kendall Farms off White Lilac Road during a deputy related shooting. Valley News/SoCal News Outlet photo

Third annual Summer Benefit Bash supports scholarships in Lake Elsinore

Honoring the memory of their daughter, who died in a car accident, Harvey and Kimberly Ryan founded the Kennedie June Von Ryan Foundation. A senior at Temescal Canyon High School in Lake Elsinore when she died in October 2018, Kennedie had a passion for playing water polo and supporting her teams, fellow students and friends through her inspiration, commitment, respect, love and compassion. The goal of the KJVR Foundation is to provide like-minded student athletes with college scholarships.

“You take a bad and you make it good,” Kimberly Ryan said. “We’ve raised all of our kids to be givers and to get involved and our daughter Kennedie was a shining example of that.”

The nonprofit organizes a signature fundraising event called Summer Benefit Bash that debuted the year the nonprofit was founded in 2019. This year marks the third such event since it was suspended in 2020 and 2021 due to the coronavirus pandemic. Held at Launch Po inte in Lake Elsinore, it also features a weekend of camping opportunities punctuated by the Summer Benefit Bash dinner Saturday, May 20, from 4:30-9:30 p.m.

Serving on the KJVR Foundation board of directors are President Harvey Ryan, Vice President Kimberly Ryan, Treasurer Aaron Manley, Secretary Sarah Stiver, Scholarship Chair Heidi Dodd, event coordinator Laura Manley and board member Karynne Ryan.

To date, 28 scholarships, totaling $28,000, have been awarded to graduating seniors from Elsinore, Lakeside and Temescal Canyon high schools. Recipients must be accepted as a full-time student in the upcoming academic year as the scholarship money is sent directly to the school on behalf of the student. Successful applicants must have been involved in a high school sport and involved with activities, clubs or programs on campus.

“By providing scholarships to local, deserving students, we get to help young adults emulate our daughter’s traits and goals and give to the community that she helped and loved,” Harvey Ryan said.

Aaron Manley said he got in-

volved with the nonprofit because his son, Grant Manley, played water polo at Temescal Canyon and was good friends with Kennedie. Also, her sister Karynne was Grant’s freshman water polo coach and she currently coaches varsity water polo at Temescal Canyon.

In addition to being a member of the girls’ swim and water polo teams, Karynne was active with ASB on campus. Kennedie’s other siblings were also scholar athletes. Her brother Levi was part of football, baseball, track and mock trial while her brother Garrett participated in football, wrestling and mock trial.

Ke nnedie herself was part of ASB, swimming and was a fouryear starter and captain of the girls’ water polo team, playing as No. 5, which along with the design of a water polo ball is a prominent part of the KJVR Foundation’s logo. She had already been accepted to Marist College in New York to play Division 1 water polo.

“We knew the Ryans from being involved with the local community,” Aaron Manley said. “It is important for us to give back as well, and this foundation was a great opportunity to help local youth.”

The Ryan family has lived in Lake Elsinore for the past 28 years. Manley said they collaborated with Launch Pointe for the foundation’s annual fundraiser because it is reminiscent of the family’s yearly camping trips.

“Plus, it is operated by the city, which gives the family an opportunity to give back to the community,” he said. “The entire family has been heavily involved in the community since day one.”

At Launch Pointe, a No. 5 pool tile was installed at the 5-foot depth by the city of Lake Elsinore in memory of Kennedie. It is another reason the recreation destination and RV park is so special to the family, the Ryans said.

The 2023 Summer Benefit Bash ticket price is $85 and features dinner, appetizers, a cash bar, silent a uction, DJ and dancing, while spending time with the KJVR family. The Launch Pointe event, at 32040 Riverside Drive in Lake Elsinore, is for those 21 years of age and older.

For those that want to celebrate and honor Kennedie’s memory all

weekend long, a Summer Sleepover RV package can be booked through the foundation for $410. It allows guests to park their RV or trailer at Launch Pointe from Friday, May 19 at 3 p.m. through Sunday, May 21, at 11 a.m. and includes admission for two to the Saturday night event. A welcome basket with exclusive KJVR swag is available only for donors staying the whole weekend who will also be offered fun-filled activities such as a cornhole tournament, plus free dinner on Friday, breakfast and lunch Saturday and breakfast Sunday. There will be a Saturday morning yoga session to get everyone conditioned and relaxed.

The weekend package is only available to reserve until April 30 through the foundation. Weekend events for guests are open to all ages; only the Saturday night Summer Benefit Bash dinner is restricted to 21 and older. Those who do not book their campsite directly through the foundation will not receive the perks mentioned above.

“Thanks to our amazing event and silent auction sponsors, this year’s Summer Benefit Bash promises to be the most fun and successful one yet,” Manley said. “We are so grateful to Willy’s Tacos, Stadium Pizza, Dejong’s Dairy, Vincenzo’s Olive Tree, Bloom Ice Cream & Coffee, 86d Axe, Tulips Trophies and Treasures, EVMWD, Phoenix Rising Yoga, Grapeline Wine Tours, Susan and David Wiens and Spinning Ink for their support this year.”

Manley said attendees of the annual event love to hear previous scholarship winners who return and speak about their college experience and what the scholarship has meant to them. Each $1,000 scholarship recipient also receives a pair of black checkerboard Vans, which were Kennedie’s favorite shoes, and free admission to the annual event for life once they turn 21 years old.

The foundation hosts an annual blood drive every January on Kennedie’s birthday. This event is not held to raise funds but to give back, as Kennedie was a blood donor herself. Manley said the signature fundraising event will be renamed Benefit Bash when it is held in September 2024; however, dona-

tions will continue to be accepted all year long.

Kimberly Ryan said operating the KJVR Foundation doesn’t make the family’s healing process easier.

“It makes it harder, which makes us stronger,” she said. “It helps keep Kennedie’s memory and name

alive which doesn’t just help in the community, it also sets an example for our grandchildren.”

For more information, visit http://www.kjvrfoundation.com kennedie@kjvrfoundation.com or contact Harvey Ryan at 909-2635056.

Diane A. Rhodes Special to Valley News

Harvey and Kimberly Ryan attend the 2022 Summer Benefit Bash at Launch Pointe in Lake Elsinore. Valley News/Courtesy photos

A Summer Sleepover RV package is available for Summer Benefit Bash attendees.

About 100 guests attend the 2022 Summer Benefit Bash dinner at Launch Pointe in Lake Elsinore.

Kennedie June Von Ryan is at the heart of the KJVR Foundation that benefits Lake Elsinore student athletes.

A pool tile at Launch Pointe is the work of the city of Lake Elsinore, who had it placed in Kennedie’s memory.

Donate Life flag honoring organ donation is raised at Rancho Springs Medical Center

Staff at Rancho Springs Medical Center observe an organ donation flag presentation Tuesday, April 18.

Peripheral Neuropathy Breakthrough!

“My feet feel like they’re on re.”

Lori Chavez, wife of Lance Chavez, attends the organ donation flag raising ceremony at Rancho Springs Medical Center. The Chavez family has created the Live Aloha Foundation to raise awareness about veteran suicide and to offer resources to veterans and family members who may be suffering with PTSD.

Mother and child killed in DUI suspected accident

Valley News staff

San Marcos residents Courteney Taylor, 29, and her daughter Amaya Taylor, 4, were killed Sunday, April 23, in a multi-vehicle head-on collision on the I-15 southbound in Fallbrook. The accident was called in at 3:13 p.m. and occurred just north of the Pala Road/76 offramp. In addition to the fatalities, there was one major injury and three minor injuries reported. All were transported to local trauma centers.

Erick Arambula from Oceanside was driving a black Toyota Tacoma traveling in the northbound lane of Old Highway 395. For reasons still under investigation, the driver of the Toyota veered onto the right shoulder and collided into a chain link fence.

The Tacoma then traveled down an embankment where it continued onto the southbound lanes of Interstate 15. Unfortunately, this resulted in a headon collision with a black Kia Forte and white Tesla 3.

According to NCFPD PIO John Choi, the California Highway Patrol, Sheriff, and several North County Fire engines and ambulances responded to the scene.

Despite lifesaving efforts, the 29-year-old driver of the Kia and a her 4-year-old daughter succumbed to their injuries while on scene. The driver and two passengers in the Tesla were transported to a local area hospital for minor injuries. The driver of the Tacoma was transported to a local area hospital with major injuries. Due to the nature of the collision, the roadway was temporarily affected for scene investigation and processing. All four lanes of the southbound I-15 were closed at the Mission Road southbound onramp and cars were directed to drive on the shoulder, backing up traffic into Riverside County.

There is evidence to indicate that DUI was a factor in this crash. The driver of the Tacoma, Erick Arambula, was placed under arrest and faces multiple charges related to this incident including felony driving under the influence (DUI) and gross vehicular manslaughter. As traffic continued for hours, many cars departed the freeway and drove through the grass onto 395.

“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.

Gina Cloyd speaks at a OneLegacy organ donation flag raising ceremony at Rancho Springs Medical Center, April 18. She is the sister of Lance Chavez, a Marine Corps veteran who suffered from PTSD and ultimately took his own life on September 11, 2022. Organs from Chavez were donated to patients needing life-saving tissue.

OneLegacy CEO Prasad Garimella speaks at an organ donation flag raising ceremony at Rancho Springs Medical Center in Murrieta.

Valley News/Shane Gibson photos

Women receive life sentences for robbing, killing senior at Pechanga Resort

City News Service

Special to Valley News

Two women who robbed and fatally assaulted an octogenarian in a restroom of the Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula were both sentenced Friday, April 21 to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

Candace Tai Townsell, 42, and Kimesha Monae Williams, 39, both of Moreno Valley, were convicted in February of the 2019 slaying of 84-year-old Afaf Anis Assad of Long Beach.

A Murrieta jury deliberated only two hours before finding the pair guilty of first-degree murder, robbery and elder abuse, as well as finding true a special-circumstance allegation of killing during the course of a robbery, with sentence-

enhancing great bodily injury allegations.

During their sentencing hearing at the Southwest Justice Center Friday, April 21, Riverside County Superior Court Judge Timothy Freer imposed the terms of imprisonment required by law.

According to the District Attorney’s Office, Townsell and Williams were trawling the casino in the predawn hours of Aug. 31, 2019, stealing a woman’s mobile phone and trying to scope out other targets for theft.

“Both have a long-documented history of theft crimes throughout Riverside County,” according to the prosecution’s trial brief.

ladies restroom, prosecutors said. Pechanga security cameras captured all of the goings-on outside the lavatory, including images of Townsell and Williams “diverting their path (to the exit) to follow Mrs. Assad into the restroom,” the brief stated.

The women stationed themselves inside the bathroom, near the exit, as the victim walked into a stall. They were observed by two casino patrons, one of whom described them as loitering for “no real purpose,” according to the brief.

such force as to leave a severe bruise on her left arm, and the other knocked the senior to the bathroom floor, where the back of her head impacted with the kind of severity comparable to “a motor vehicle accident, or an unprotected fall from standing height,” according to the brief.

The witness in the stall heard the commotion and what sounded like “vomiting or throwing up,” followed by a loud thud, court papers stated.

medical personnel, who attempted to render aid until fire department paramedics reached the location.

The victim was taken to Inland Valley Medical Center in Wildomar, where she died three days later, never having regained consciousness. She had suffered a brain hemorrhage, prosecutors said.

The defendants’ gain from the robbery was between $800 and $1,200, investigators said.

The defendants were preparing to leave at 7:30 a.m., and about the time they reached the front exit, they observed Assad arrive with her 92-year-old husband, who walked toward a gaming room while the victim stepped into a

One witness went into a stall, and the other left, after which the two defendants, Assad and the remaining witness were the only parties in the restroom.

The defendants prevented a custodian from entering the restroom before bolting out of the space, all of which was caught on security cameras.

“Townsell was observed skipping and waving her hands in a celebratory fashion,” according to the brief.

Sheriff’s Sgt. Steve Brosche said detectives relied on the surveillance camera images and other leads to identify Townsell and Williams as the assailants. Both were taken into custody less than a week later, Townsell in Hemet and Williams in Perris.

According to court papers, as Assad left her stall and headed toward a sink, the defendants pounced on her. One ripped her pink purse from her grasp with

The custodian found Assad bleeding and unconscious, prompting her to alert casino security and

Williams has prior convictions for grand theft, burglary and auto theft. Townsell has priors for theft and driving on a suspended license.

Menifee police issue 29 citations for hands-free cell phone violations

MENIFEE – The Menifee Po-

lice Department cited 29 drivers for hands-free cell phone violations during a distracted driving enforcement operation Tuesday, April 18, from 3-7 p.m.

“Despite repeated efforts to warn drivers about the handsfree cell phone law, some drivers continue to use their phones while operating a vehicle,” police Chief Chris Karrer said. “Our ultimate goal is to change behaviors that help make our roads safer.”

California has had distracted driving laws in the books since 2008. Under current law, drivers are not allowed to hold their phone or other electronic device while driving. It includes talking, texting

Charges expected against San Jacinto senior accused of killing wife

City News Service

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 previous conviction for the same offense will result in a point being added to a driver’s record. If you have an important phone call or need to program directions, pull over to a safe parking spot. Before driving, either silence your phone or put it somewhere you can’t reach.

Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Submitted by city of Menifee.

Special to the Valley News

Felony charges are expected to be filed tomorrow against a 70-year-old man suspected of fatally stabbing his wife in their San Jacinto home.

Lorenzo Salciedo Liera Jr. was arrested and booked into the Robert Presley Jail in Riverside Thursday, April 20 on suspicion of murder for the slaying of 71- yearold Ruth Liera. The case has been submitted to the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office for review.

According to sheriff’s Sgt. Ben Ramirez, patrol deputies were sent to Liera’s apartment in the 1700

block of South Santa Fe Avenue, near Esplanade Avenue, about 7:30 a.m. Thursday to investigate reports of an assault.

Ramirez said that upon entering the residence, deputies found Ruth Liera dead as a result of “multiple sharp force injuries.”

Her husband was outside the apartment and was detained without incident, the sergeant said.

After he was questioned at length by Central Homicide Unit detectives, Lorenzo Liera was formally arrested and jailed Thursday night.

A possible motive for the alleged attack was not disclosed. Background information on the suspect was unavailable.

the publication’s format.

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

AnzA VAlley OUTLOOK WITH CONTENT FROM AnzA VAlley OUTLOOK

MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. BOX 391353, Anza, CA 92539 PHONE: (760) 723-7319 PHONE: (951) 763-5510 FAX: (760) 723-9606

ANZA VALLEY OUTLOOK (ISSN 0883-6124) is a legally adjudicated paper, AKA AMERICAN OUTLOOK, is published weekly by the The Village News, Inc., 111 W. Alvarado St., Fallbrook, CA 92028. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Anza Valley Outlook, P.O. Box 391353, Anza, CA 92539. ANZA VALLEY OUTLOOK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THE CORRECTNESS OF OPINIONS OR INFORMATION OR ERRORS PRINTED IN THIS PAPER, OR FOR ANY JOB, SERVICE OR SALES ITEM. IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO CHECK OUT ALL ADS. Anza Valley Outlook is a newspaper of general circulation printed and published weekly in the City of Anza, County of Riverside, and which newspaper has been adjudged a newspaper of general circulation by the Superior Court of the County of Riverside, State of California, March 14, 1986; Case Number 176045

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

MENIFEE – Two drivers arrested for DUI and eight drivers arrested for suspended/revoked license or without a license while conducting a DUI/DL checkpoint on Saturday, April 22.

The checkpoint was held near the intersection of Scott Road, Breighton Wood St and Road from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Eight drivers were cited for operating a vehicle unlicensed or with a suspended/revoked license. Additionally, 17 drivers were issued a citation for various vehicle code violations.

Checkpoint locations are based on a history of crashes and DUI arrests. The primary purpose of checkpoints is not to make arrests, but to promote public safety by deterring drivers from driving impaired.

The Menifee Police Department is 100% committed to preventing, deterring, and arresting impaired drivers in Menifee and will continue to be a top priority.

Menifee Police Department were to hold another DUI/Driver’s License checkpoint April 22, 2023

Funding for this checkpoint was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Submitted by Menifee Police Department

Visit myvalleynews.com Stay connected.

Fallbrook Avocado Festival brings thousands to the friendly village

People shop for a bag of avocados from one of a variety of produce vendors during the 2023 Fallbrook Avocado Festival, April 23. Valley News/Shane Gibson photos

Lianna Leysack, 15, has her likeness drawn by caricature artist Drew Astehgo at the Fallbrook Avocado Festival.

Boxes of Linda-Vista brand avocados are sold at a booth during the Fallbrook Avocado Festival.

The Bart Bridge Clothing booth sells hats with custom patches representing many Southern California communities at the Fallbrook Avocado Festival.

Jasmine Vang, 10, helps sell large bags of popcorn at her family’s kettle corn booth at the Fallbrook Avocado Festival.

Servers in the Holy Guaca-Moly booth prepare chips and guacamole trays for the many thousands of guests attending the annual Fallbrook Avocado Festival.

Isabella Perez, 5, pets a lamb at the Fallbrook 4H booth during the Avocado Festival.

Ralph Foster displays an educational avocado exhibit showing the many different varieties and sizes of avocados.

Thousands of people gather on Main Avenue in Fallbrook where a wide variety of vendors and all things avocados are celebrated during the annual Avocado Festival.

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

CHILDREN’S EVENTS

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 29 to May 21 – Temecula

Valley Museum reprises “Through Darkness to Light: Photographs

Along the Underground Railroad” at the Temecula Valley Museum, 28314 Mercedes St.. 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 27-28 – 7 p.m.Youth Innovators Program: a high school student-run committee that plans and hosts community-based youth programs. Interested in joining? Complete your application here: http:// bit.ly/42QSyvQ. 43200 Business Park Drive, Temecula. For questions contact TVE2 by email TVE2@ TemeculaCA.gov, or by phone at 951-506-5180. 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 29-30 and May 6-7 – The “Ramona” Outdoor Play will be performed April 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 27 – 5-7 p.m. Temecula Middle School Jazz Band performance on stage at Vail Headquarters, 32115 Temecula Parkway.

April 29 – 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Temecula Community Services Expo at the Civic Center, 41000 Main Street. Participants will learn about the summer camps, classes, and other events offered by Temecula’s Community Services Department. It is a chance to meet-and-greet class instructors face-to-face and learn more about the activities offered in

Temecula’s Guide To Leisure Activities before registration officially opens on May 1 for the summer fall seasons.

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

ONGOING – Sun City Civic Association Monthly Square Dance sessions are held Sundays from 1:305 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 800-510-2020 for help.

ONGOING – The Riverside County COVID-19 Business Assistance Grant Program is accepting online applications for business grants up to $10,000 at www.rivercobizhelp.org that can be used for employee retention, working capital, personal protective equipment purchases, rent or mortgage payments and paying vendor notices. Eligible businesses, including nonprofits, must be in Riverside County, with a minimum of one but less than 50 employees and operating for at least one year since March 1. For more information, call Riverside County Business and Community Services at 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 28 – Temecula’s 13th annual Health & Community Resource Fair Vendor applications and guidelines are now available! Seeking vendors in the fields of health and wellness that can provide free health screenings, community resources, emergency preparedness, public safety awareness, and more. The fair will be held on Sept. 30 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Temecula Civic Center and Town Square, 41000 Main Street.

April 28 – The California State Fair Home Wine Competition invites people seeking to showcase 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 28 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 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. 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.

May 2 – 1 p.m. Myles Ross to speak at Lake Elsinore Historical Society meeting. Mr. Ross is the recently elected president of the Lake Elsinore-Southwest Riverside County NAACP as well as a director on the Board of Directors of the Lake Elsinore Valley Chamber of Commerce. His community involvement is extensive. Join us as he speaks about his ideas for the future growth of Lake Elsinore and the programs he represents. Meeting is at the Lake Elsinore History Museum in the Cultural Building, 133 N. Main St. Lake Elsinore. For more information, visit www.lakeelsinorehistoricalsociety.org

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, DMVapproved 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 781-932-6300, 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

Tenth annual Motte’s Big Barn Classic Car/Motorcycle Show brings best classic and

custom vehicles to Menifee

Barn Classic Car/Motorcycle Show.

Tony

It was hard for neighbors and passersby to ignore as the very loud headers sounded from hot rods and custom cars at the 10th Annual Big Barn Classic Car/Motorcycle Show that drew more than 1,000 visitors to Menifee April 22.

It was a show of shows for every type of vintage, classic, muscle, custom and foreign cars, trucks and motorcycles, with more than 150 entries and free visits to the Motte Historical Museum at 28380 Highway 74 East in Menifee. Greeting the entrants and guests were members of the pioneering Motte family. The creators of the shiny older vehicles lined up for judging proudly talked about how they restored and customized their hot rods, custom and classic cars and trucks. Motorcycle riders from many clubs shared their experiences with friends and visitors with the

Restored trucks of various makes and years on display at the 10th Annual Big Barn Classic Car/Motorcycle Show.

Free Indeed Christian Motorcycle Ministry directing the riders. The meeting included an array of food trucks, vendors and entertainment from the American Made band belting out classic country music and Jereome Robinson’s mu-

sic venue. DJ Mark Barnett helped collect the contest voting slips and the raffle booth. Enjoying the show and showing off her rare cam over 1967 Pontiac Firebird was Reyna Tom. “I love this show. It’s my first

Reyna Tom from Menifee is proud of her unique 1967 overhead cammed Pontiac Firebird with only about 200 made, showing it at the Big Barn Classic Car/Motorcycle Show.

show and my first classic car. It’s just so nice and a really good show for a female to show her first car,” Reyna said with a big smile. There were many other first timers entering a car and motorcycle show, while others had the opportunity to once again show their prized vehicles and vie for yet another trophy.

Other awards were given out to the final contest winners including pedal cars, tricycles and more. Everyone had the opportunity to enter drawings for other prizes and those over 21 could enter the 50/50 opportunity drawing.

For more information, www. mottemuseum.com.

Ault Staff Writer

Tricked out motorcycles, Harley Davidson hogs and other bikes form a line for judging at the 10th Annual Big Barn Classic Car/Motorcycle Show at Mottes Historical Museum, April 22. Free Indeed Christian Motorcycle Ministry is a key sponsor of this show. Valley New/Tony Ault photos

Ron Adler from Murrieta proudly shows off his father’s 1965 Volkswagen crew cab he carefully restored for show in the Foreign Car category at the 10th Annual Big

Temecula Blues Festival returns to Temecula Civic Center Plaza

Ava Sarnowski Valley News Intern

Held at the Civic Center Plaza, the Temecula Blues Festival featured eight bands and brought in a crowd to the all-day blues concert Saturday, April 15, in Old Town Temecula. Those in attendance danced, consumed meals provided by food trucks and kicked back in beach and camp chairs to listen. The lineup included Bonita & The Blues Shacks, The Disciplez, The Fabulous Thunderbirds, Len Rainey & The Midnight Players, Susan Santos, Chris Thayer & The TCB, Little A & The Allnighters and The Honey Lickers. The event was sponsored by the Old Town Blues Club and club owner Andrew Doty. He said he hopes to make the event an annual production. The coronavirus pandemic postponed his plans until this year, when it was finally brought back. He said the festival will return again next year, considering how successfully it went this year.

“No hiccups, the weather was stellar. The lineup was great. I have an amazing group of people that support me. My staff, volunteers, vendors, musicians and the city of Temecula were all outstanding,” he said.

When hiring musicians to perform, Doty said he seeks eclectic groups that are true to the blues and can transfer stage energy to the audience. Each festival lineup represents local, regional, national and international acts, including two European performers this year. According to Doty, the first festival, which occurred in 2018, was a smashing success.

Having grown up during the sixties and seventies, at a time when rock ‘n’ roll was still fresh, Doty said he was always drawn to music. For the better part of his youth, he played the piano and saxophone, before he traded in both instruments for guitars. He currently plays in two bands at his club, which he has owned for seven years, and his third group will debut later this summer.

“It was the peak of Motown, the British invasion,” Doty said. “I feel so fortunate to have grown up during this period in music history. It most likely will never happen again.”

Doty said he considers music a universal language and believes that live music can unite communities despite their differences. He said that people come to the club to get away from “all the nonsense out there in the world.” He enjoys sharing the music he loves with others, and he said he hopes that they will enjoy it as much as he does.

While Doty loves many different genres of music, his most memorable live music experiences occur at intimate blues clubs. Similarly to jazz, blues as a genre offers artists ample opportunity for improvisation. They can play standards in their own style, and Doty wanted blues in his own club. He chose to bring the “Blues to the Burbs.”

He said that many who live in see BLUES, page B-4

The steps of Temecula City Hall draws a crowd at the Temecula Blues Festival to hear Bonita and The Blues Shocks, The Disciplez, The Fabulous Thunderbirds, Len Rainey and The Midnight Players, Susan Santos, Chris Thayer and the TCB, Little A and the Allnighters, on stage, and The Honey Lickers.

Chris Thayer, center, performs with his band Chris Thayer and the TCB at the Temecula Blues Festival Saturday, April 15, in Old Town Temecula. Valley News/Shawna Sarnowski photos

Drummer from Little A and the Allnighters keeps the beat during their performance at the Temecula Blues Festival on the steps of Temecula City Hall.

Guitar player from Little A and the Allnighters performs during the Temecula Blues Festival.

Syttende Mai, Norway’s Constitution Day

Constitution Day is the national day of Norway and is an official public holiday observed on May 17 each year. Among Norwegians, the day is referred to as syttende mai (“Seventeenth of May”), Nasjonaldagen (“National Day”) or Grunnlovsdagen (“Constitution Day”), although the latter is less frequent.

Sons of Norway Vinland Lodge will be celebrating Syttende Mai on May 6, at the Heritage Mobile Park Clubhouse, at 31130 S. General Kearney Road, Temecula. Please join us at noon for a potluck

Come Celebrate Culture at the 2nd Annual Temecula CultureFest

luncheon, followed by a cultural presentation on Syttende Mai traditions.

To get to the clubhouse, exit the I-15 at Rancho California Road, east to Moraga Road, turn left, then at Margarita Road turn right, at La Serena Way turn left. Turn right off La Serena Way onto S. General Kearney Road. Continue to Azalea Lane, turn left and continue up Azalea Lane to Rose Lane Turn left to the clubhouse. Call 951-309-1597 or 760-650-6281 for more information.

Country music artist Frank Ray to perform at Wiens Family Cellars’ ‘New Country Night Out’

TEMECULA – Grab those boots and cowboy hats as a new country concert series featuring some of the best up-and-coming country artists is coming to Temecula Valley Wine Country. “New Country Night Out” begins Friday, April 28, with Frank Ray at Wiens Family Cellars, 35055 Via Del Ponte, in Temecula.

“Our new series is bringing hot, new country musicians to boutique venues across Southern California with the goal of helping connect these bands with fans,” Soundskilz CEO Steve Clayton said. “Country music appeals to listeners of all ages and we hope this new series will help elevate those musicians just starting out in the industry.”

Texas recording artist Frank Ray will kick off the New Country Night Out concert series with an engaging, high-energy performance at Wiens’ Mountain View Amphitheater Friday, April 28.

Best known for his vocal talent and cross-cultural appeal, Frank Ray’s 2018 release of his solo debut EP and a title track of the same name, “Different Kind of Country,” skyrocketed his popularity almost instantly as one of only a few Hispanic country music artists. His celebrated debut single, “Streetlights,” similarly featured classic storytelling infused with bilingual lyrics that stretched country music’s cultural boundaries. His success continued in 2021

BLUES from page B-3

the area come from all over America, and he thought that opening a blues club would be a great way to set Temecula apart. Once the club was up and running, it naturally flowed into the idea of conducting a festival, Doty said.

His goal for next year’s festival is the same as ever: He’ll work so,

with the release of his hit single, “Country’d Look Good on You,” which held onto the No. 17 spot on the Billboard Country Airplay Chart for 55 consecutive weeks.

In the five short years since committing to being a full-time artist, he has achieved several notable accomplishments. He has secured two No. 1 singles and three top 10 singles on Texas Country Radio, he was named an “Artist to Watch” by Rolling Stone, and most recently he performed on the Grand Ole Opry stage. He has also toured with artists such as Luke Combs, Kane Brown, Brett Eldredge, Luke Bryan, Kip Moore, Hunter Hayes and many more.

Ray, a former Las Cruces, New Mexico, police officer, uses his platform as a singer to raise awareness of first responder’s mental health through his organization FRAY. The organization aims to equip first responders with tools, resources and education that promote mental wellbeing for them, their families and the communities that support them.

Upcoming performances include Leaving Austin Saturday, May 13, Redneck Rodeo Saturday, June 24, and Joe Peters Friday, July 7. For more information about the concert series and to purchase tickets, visit http://newcountrynightout.com. Submitted by New Country Night Out.

the day after, it will be the talk of the town. The Old Towns Blues Club can be found on Facebook and Instagram. For more information, visit http://www.oldtownbluesclub. com/. Ava Sarnowski can be reached by email at valleystaff @reedermedia.com.

TEMECULA – Temecula will host the second annual Temecula CultureFest Saturday, May 20, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in commemoration of World Day for Cultural Diversity. This free communitywide, signature special event will take place in Old Town Temecula at Town Square Park, 41902 Main Street; Civic Center Quad, 41000 Main Street, and Sam Hicks Monument Park, 41970 Moreno Road.

Experience various cultures, heritages and traditions from around the world through live music, dancing, special performances and fun activities for the entire family. The expansive vendor booths will promote cultural appreciation, educational experiences and intercultural engagement through food, crafts, activities and meaningful exchanges. Temecula CultureFest will showcase nonprofits, school clubs, religious organizations, local businesses and delicious food vendors. Be sure to pick up a passport at the Community Services info booth. Once all the vendors have stamped that passport – visitors can bring it back for a free giveaway.

“We live in a multicultural society and embracing the values of various cultures only strengthens our understanding and appreciation for the world,” Temecula Mayor Zak Schwank said. “Temecula’s signature events provide our community with a safe space to share their unique traditions and family heritage at Temecula CultureFest.”

“Temecula CultureFest launched just last year and welcomed over 5,000 attendees,” James “Stew” Stewart, mayor pro tem and president of Temecula Community Services District, said. “This special event really brings people together to experience, honor, and celebrate many different cultures, traditions, and heritages that ultimately enhances our social cohesion and mutual respect for fellow citizens.”

Visit the photo stream from our

Bob Garver

Special to the Valley News

When I first heard that there was a movie called “The Pope’s Exorcist,” I thought maybe it was about a guy that performs an exorcism on the pope. That could be a cool idea – the holiest man in the Catholic Church himself needing an exorcism. But no, it’s just about the pope’s preferred exorcist going off and performing an exorcism on yet another possessed teenager. Ho hum.

Russell Crowe plays the Rev. Gabriele Amorth, a real-life figure in the Catholic Church whose story, I’m sure, is more interesting than anything in this movie. He’s described in movie advertising as “wisecracking,” but that’s a stretch. He offers a few dry remarks, plays some head games, makes some goofy noises and is flippant with a review board, but I never felt that “wisecracking” was a particularly accurate descriptor. Maybe because I never found any of his “jokes” to be funny.

The pope, played by Franco Nero, sends Amorth to Spain to investigate the possession of young Henry, played by Peter DeSouzaFeighoney. Henry, along with his mother, played by Alex Essoe, and sister, played by Laurel Marsden, just moved into an abandoned abbey, and soon enough the boy is hissing vulgarities and throwing around local priest Esquibel, played by Daniel Zovatto. Since the abbey is in Spain, it’s not hard to guess the dark secret of the house’s history. Supposedly, nobody expected it, but I did. The literal demon forces Amorth and Esquibel to confront their figurative demons. Amorth feigned death during World War II and has survivor’s guilt. He also botched the treatment of a young woman in his care. Esquibel is guilty of something much sleazier if the demon is to be believed. I suppose these sins are necessary for character development so that we know these men are flawed, but the scenes of flashbacks and confessions just scream “padding the runtime” to me. How can a movie this short seem to take so long? Roger Ebert said that no good movie is too long and no bad movie is short enough. I’ve seen some

Temecula CultureFest is a free community event that will take place Saturday, May 20 in Old Town Temecula. Valley News/Courtesy photo inaugural Temecula CultureFest to see what you can expect. For more information, visit http:// TemeculaCA.gov/CultureFest Keep updated on all upcoming Temecula Community Services’

events, activities and programs, by visiting http://TemeculaCA. gov/TCSD and following at @ TemeculaParksandRec on social media.

Submitted by city of Temecula.

Movie review: ‘The Pope’s Exorcist’

decent movies that could use some trimming – “John Wick: Chapter 4,” anyone? – but there are far fewer exceptions to the latter rule.

Name a tired element of the exorcist genre, and it’s probably in this film. Veteran exorcist teaming up with a novice priest? Check. Possessed child speaking in a voice that clearly isn’t theirs? Check. Crab walk? You know that’s a check. Head spinning around? It doesn’t do a 360-degree spin, but one does go backwards for a bit, so a faint check. Ineffective jump scares? Check, if the movie even thinks it’s doing jump scares. Lame finale with bad CGI and a lot of thrashing? I’d almost be disappointed if this movie got better in the last 10 minutes and that wasn’t a check.

“The Pope’s Exorcist” is a hacky horror movie with Oscar-winner Crowe supposedly lending it cred-

Valley News/Courtesy photo

ibility, though it really just makes me feel sorry for how far his star has fallen. It managed to make a meager $9 million at the weekend box office, getting dominated by “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” with nearly 10 times that amount – that movie gets two more weekends to lay waste to everything in its path. You’d be better off giving your money to almost anything else, including fourth-place weekend finisher “Renfield,” which has a few funny ideas and is at least good for a “C” grade. It’s hard to forgive this movie for wasting so much of my time.

Grade: D

“The Pope’s Exorcist” is rated R for violent content, language, sexual references and some nudity. Its running time is 103 minutes. Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@ nyu.edu.

EVMWD Director Darcy Burke to advise on US EPA Committee

LAKE ELSINORE – Elsinore

Valley Municipal Water District announced that one of its own board directors, Darcy Burke, has been appointed to the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s Local Government Advisory Committee.

Established in 1993, the LGAC is a critical advisory body for the U.S. EPA, providing guidance on a wide range of environmental policies and programs. Composed of local elected officials and appointed representatives from across the country, the LGAC helps ensure that the voices of local communities are heard in the development of national environmental policies. The LGAC is chartered under the Federal Advisory Committee Act, which regulates and governs its operation.

Burke has served on the EVMWD Board of Directors since 2018, and during that time, she has been a vocal advocate for responsible water management and environmental stewardship. Her extensive knowledge of local water issues and her commitment to protecting the environment make

her an ideal representative for local government on the LGAC.

“I am honored to have been appointed to the LGAC,” Burke said.

“I look forward to working with other local leaders shaping policies that will protect its environment, public health and the vibrancy of our communities.”

“The appointment of Darcy Burke to the LGAC is a testament to her hard work and dedication to public service,” Greg Thomas, general manager of EVMWD, said. “EVMWD is proud to have her represent the district and the local community on this important advisory committee.”

In addition to her time on the EVMWD board, Burke has served in water in a variety of roles, including as the director of public affairs for the Municipal Water District of Orange County; former executive director for The Center for Water Education, Metropolitan Water District of Southern California’s nonprofit, and former executive director of the California Nevada Section, American Water Works Association. She is a past member of the California

Department of Public Health Services Title 22 Technical Advisory Committee and founder of the California Nevada Section, American Water Works Association’s Water College. Burke received her bachelor’s degree from Mount St. Mary’s University Los Angeles in international economics and marketing as well as her master’s degree in business administration with an emphasis in organizational leadership.

For more information about the Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District and its services, visit http://evmwd.com.

Submitted by Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District.

Darcy Burke, board director of Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District, is appointed to the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s Local Government Advisory Committee.

Earthquakes: It’s not a matter of if, but when

Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

Special to Valley News

Southern California already experiences about 30 earthquakes every day. While most of them are too small to be felt, the U.S. Geological Survey estimates a serious chance of being struck with a magnitude 7.5 earthquake in the next couple of decades.

April is declared Earthquake

Preparedness Month by the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services, Chief Sam DiGiovanna said. He offers tips on how to prepare before, during and after strong earthquakes.

Before a quake: Prepare 72 hours of food and water; Learn how to control utilities such as gas, water and electricity; Practice

emergency drills with family and neighbors; Place a flashlight next to your bed; Prepare sturdy shoes in your car and under your bed; Have an earthquake preparedness kit in your car

If quake hits while you’re in bed: Curl up into a ball and put a pillow over your head; Wait until shaking stops; Put on sturdy shoes to protect your feet.

If quake hits while at work or school: Duck, cover and hold; Hide under a desk or table; Put one arm over the head while holding onto the cover with the other hand; Wait until shaking stops.

If quake hits while you’re driving: Pull over to the side of the road; Stay inside the vehicle; Watch out for falling objects, including power lines; Use quake

preparedness kits and put on sturdy shoes.

After shaking stops: Stay calm; Be prepared for aftershocks; Make sure to shut off power, gas and electricity especially if you smell something; Check yourself and others for injuries.

It’s not a matter of if a quake strikes, but when. We are long overdue for a quake. If you are not prepared now, you are not prepared and your chances for survival diminish.

Sam DiGiovanna is a 35-year fire service veteran. He started with the Los Angeles County Fire Department, served as fire chief at the Monrovia Fire Department and currently serves as chief at the Verdugo Fire Academy in Glendale.

Canyon Springs Enterprises given Brewer Tank demolition contract

equipment.

Top causes of household water damage and how to prevent it

GREEN BAY, Wisconsin –

Some Californians have had to cope with another round of severe flooding, but around 14,000 people are impacted by water damage to their households daily. Water damage is one of the most common problems you can face as a homeowner. If not taken care of immediately, water can cause expensive damage to a home. It can also lead to the growth of hazardous mold.

ServiceMaster Restore, a global leader in natural disaster response and restoration services for both residential and commercial clients, is an expert in helping homeowners properly clean-up water damage. Here are some of the top causes of water damage at home and how to prevent it.

Broken or leaking pipes

Joe Naiman

Writer

Canyon Springs Enterprises has been awarded the Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District contract to demolish the Brewer Tank.

The EVMWD board voted 5-0 Thursday, April 13, to approve a $342,000 public works contract with Canyon Springs Enterprises, which is headquartered in Temecula. The board authorized a total expenditure of $383,232, which also includes $39,522 for staff time and $1,710 for overhead. Because the action involves an existing facility rather than a new facility or an expansion of use the board also found the project categorically exempt from California Environmental Quality Act review.

The Elsinore Water District was

consolidated into the Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District in 2011. EVMWD staff subsequently evaluated the combined water system to determine areas in the system which could be abandoned due to redundant infrastructure. The Reservoir Demolition Program was implemented to demolish six reservoir sites. The Brewer Tank, which is off Landerville Boulevard in Lakeland Village, will be the first of those demolition projects. The Brewer Tank demolition project will demolish the existing 1,000,000-gallon steel structure along with associated foundation and piping which was abandoned during the water district consolidation. The project will also restore the site to its pre-existing condition including grading, drainage and relocating existing communication

A January 2022 EVMWD board action awarded a professional services contract for design engineering services to Dudek, which is headquartered in Encinitas and also has an office in Riverside. The design for the Brewer Tank demolition was completed in December 2022. EVMWD staff advertised the demolition contract for bid, Dec. 8, and set a Jan. 26 bid opening date. Three bidders submitted proposals. Canyon Springs Enterprises had the low bid at $342,000. SCW Contracting Corporation, which is based in Rainbow, had the second-lowest bid of $397,400. Joe Naiman can be reached by email at jnaiman@reedermedia. com.

EVMWD adopts blue living drop water logo

Joe Naiman Writer

The Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District adopted a new logo recently.

A 4-1 EVMWD board vote Thursday, April 13, with Harvey Ryan opposed, adopted the new logo and brand. The blue living drop water logo and brand will be implemented in late spring or early summer.

“Our EVMWD brand effort was thoughtfully managed from start to finish to include feedback from the community and our staff to be truly reflective of EVMWD’s mission and values. We are looking forward to launching our new brand,” said EVMWD general manager Greg Thomas. EVMWD staff reviewed the current brand to determine if it encompasses the district’s updated vision, mission, values, culture and promise to deliver. A request for proposals for a potential new brand was issued, and a team

of district staff members along with a representative from another agency which had recently rebranded reviewed the ten proposals received. The Charette Agency, which is in Virginia, was selected. The Charette Agency conducted research and outreach and in conjunction with EVMWD staff reviewed numerous designs before selecting three finalists. The branding study also led to the new EVMWD mission: “The EVMWD Team delivers total water management that powers the health and vibrancy of its communities so life can flourish.”

Two of the finalists were living water drop versions. One had a multi-color palette and one had a blue variant palette which can be customized for various holidays or other events throughout the year. The blue palette was the preferred option. The rebranding will also involve a Brand Guide to help the district maintain continuity of the brand and logo colors, to include how the brand and logo will be

used, specific font and color usage, visual identity guidelines and how to best display the logo in multiple media.

The estimated costs of the rebranding total $166,988 including $56,300 for signage, $53,163 for uniforms and $28,875 for vehicle decals and wraps. Some of the cost would occur regardless of whether the logo was changed when supplies are exhausted or new vehicles are purchased. EVMWD staff will use local vendors to create the updated logo items whenever possible.

An internal launch date of Wednesday, June 7, is planned for the rollout with an external launch to occur shortly afterward. The rollout will include logo placement, key messaging, packaging and design, social media, website application, promotional items, customer and stakeholder information and customer experience.

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

Leaking or broken water pipes are one of the most common causes of water damage to a home. If a pipe ruptures in a home, serious water damage can occur. Even a minor dripping leak can lead to substantial water damage over time. However, not all water damage is visible, plumbing or drain damage can often be unseen and can go unnoticed within the walls of the home. If one suspects there may be an unseen leak, there are some signs of water damage to watch out for including listening at night for any sounds of dripping water or looking out for water.

Water overflow

Forgetting to turn off the sink or tub faucet can lead to a soggy problem fast. Water overflow caused by sinks or toilets can destroy flooring and carpeting, and even break through a downstairs ceiling. If not completely cleaned up right away, the homeowner may experience permanently damaged

wood and mold growth. If they’re unable to reach the faucet or the taps won’t close, turn off the main water supply lines to the home to avoid further damage.

Faulty household appliances

Malfunctions and clogs can cause appliances to leak. A dishwasher leak, for instance, can cause water damage to cabinetry and lead to warped wood or mold growth. Refrigerators may have a clogged pipe or leaking defrost pan that needs to be fixed. The fact is, if there is water where it can be seen, there is very likely water where it can’t be seen. If an appliance has a leak, clean up the leakage as quickly as possible and have it repaired or replaced.

Clogged gutters

Gutters are meant to direct water away from the home during a severe storm. A clogged gutter can cause water to overflow and slowly seep into the property. Periodic cleaning is important to ensure that gutters are free of any debris. Twice a year, remove any leaves, twigs, seed pods, and other blockage from the gutters.

Sewer backup

Sewer backups are either caused by intense storms or tree roots blocking the home’s pipes. Both of these instances can lead to catastrophic water overflow, especially if the homeowner isn’t able to act fast. While they can’t combat a storm, contacting one’s insurance agent to discuss which homeowner policy can protect against water damage caused by sewer backups is recommended.

For more water damage information and tips see https://www. servicemasterrestore.com/blog/ water-damage/. Submitted by ServiceMaster Restore.

Valley News/Courtesy photo

Soboba Casino Resort gets boost from solar project

Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians

Special to the Valley News

Building on its past success with solar projects at the Soboba Indian Reservation, the Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians partnered with Scale Microgrids for a project at its Soboba Casino Resort. The company will build and install a renewables microgrid, pairing 1.5 megawatts of rooftop solar and a 6 megawatts per hour energy storage system.

Scheduled to be completed in June 2024, Scale is building a microgrid with solar photovoltaic energy production and battery energy storage. The advanced microgrid controls know when the utility costs are highest or if there is an outage, proactively selecting the optimal energy source. In addition to reducing the facility’s greenhouse gas emissions footprint by the equivalent of 4,800 passenger vehicles, the system will enable mission critical operations to continue during utility outages.

The company said that Tribal communities historically suffer from higher service costs, higher interconnection fees, more blackouts or brownouts and remote and distant service locations.

Insures sovereignty

“The impact of the Soboba Microgrid project goes beyond kilowatt-hours and savings,” Guillermo Gomez, business development manager at Scale Microgrids, said. “It secures the community’s longterm energy sovereignty and will inspire more public and private sector distributed energy development efforts on Tribal lands.”

Gomez has led the project development, designing the microgrid around the needs of Soboba Casino Resort and the community. He has also obtained grant funding for the project and continues to work

on obtaining additional funding to support the project costs with assistance from Shea Hughes, director of business development, and Bryan Curtis, who provided project management and engineering support throughout the development process.

Gomez said the microgrid will substantially decrease the casino’s electricity expenditure, increase energy independence, reduce carbon footprint and provide energy backup for long- and short-term power outages.

“SCR is looking to be prepared for the energy future,” he said.

“As electricity prices continue to increase drastically in the future, SCR will be prepared for increases by having its own onsite source of electricity generation.”

Soboba Tribal Council members said this project serves its mission to strengthen the Tribe’s sovereignty, self-sufficiency and prosperity. “We are responsible for helping our people and our land thrive for generations to come, and we believe this microgrid system is an important step towards advancing our objectives,” they said.

Jason Cozart is the assistant general manager at Soboba Casino Resort and a Tribal member. He said this project represents another step towards sustainability.

Cuts electric costs

“Producing our own energy means removing at least some of the increasing uncertainty surrounding rising electricity costs,” he said.

“When we can control inputs, especially those concerning utilities, we are better positioned to increase efficiencies and overall profitability.”

Cozart said the project will help control energy costs and re-allocate resources for other improvements. Having solar and battery backups will also help improve emergency response plans not only for SCR,

An artist’s rendering shows an aerial view of the Soboba Casino Resort after completion of the Scale Microgrids installation. Valley News/Scale Microgrids photo but the Tribe as a whole.

“All new projects are exciting. However, I am looking forward to the learning opportunity that this project will present, not only for myself, but for the organization as a whole,” Cozart said. “I know the Tribal Council is committed to projects that will open up new revenue streams, protect Tribal sovereignty and secure a future for all Soboba Tribal members. For me, I’m extremely grateful to have an opportunity to contribute to this, as well as future projects.”

First for tribal leaders

The project was recently highlighted at the 2023 Reservation Economic Summit, a multifaceted event from the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development featuring unparalleled access to respected tribal leaders, members of Congress, federal agency representatives, state and local elected officials and top CEOs on a national platform.

Soboba Tribal Council Chair Isaiah Vivanco was among the panelists for a breakout session, Wednesday, April 5, that presented the challenges, solutions and funding opportunities of transitioning

from a mostly centralized power generation system to a highly decentralized, resilient and independent renewable energy production system, including potential nexus solutions for Tribal gaming establishments and life-preserving medical facilities.

Energy trade leaders

Moderator Chris Deschene, owner of a tribal energy and legal firm based out of Washington, is also the co-founder and current executive director for the National Inter-Tribal Energy Council, a national tribal energy trade association. Scale’s Gomez was also a panelist, as were David Conrad, deputy director of the Office of Indian Energy and the U.S. Department of Energy, and Christabelle Mull, general manager for San Carlos Apache Tribe. The panel also presented lessons learned from their microgrid planning, development and financing goals to support next generation applications of microgrid technologies for Indian Country.

Gomez said an important goal of the Soboba project is to encourage more development of sustainable energy projects on Tribal lands.

“Tribal lands must lead the en-

ergy transition and cannot be left out of electrification opportunities as they historically have,” he said.

“It is going to take a major push from both the public and private sectors to make sure businesses and communities on Tribal lands have equal access to sustainable energy. Our goal with our Soboba partnership is to lead the way and inspire many more of these types of projects regardless of which company or entity is building the microgrid. This project should be a model of what collaboration from private sector companies like ours and Tribes should look like.”

With local offices in Los Angeles and San Diego, the New Jerseybased Scale Microgrid Solutions is a vertically integrated distributed energy platform, with a core focus of designing, building, financing and operating cutting-edge distributed energy assets that offer cheaper, cleaner and more resilient power. With a team of energy and financing experts, Scale enables customers to take charge of their energy infrastructure and futureproof their businesses. For more information, visit http:// www.scalemicrogrids.com.

Give your small business a spring cleaning with these 3 financial tips

Joseph Mishriki

Special to the Valley News

Spring cleaning season has arrived. It’s not just about scrubbing baseboards and washing windows but an important time for small business owners to get organized financially. From reviewing business expenses to managing cash flow and revising business plans, every business owner can benefit from a financial refresh. Three financial tips could help you stay on track this season. Review your business expenses. As a small business owner, you’re likely responsible for filing your taxes on a quarterly basis. If you don’t already do it, consider establishing a separate bank account dedicated to your taxes and use it to set aside a monthly amount toward estimated taxes.

Also, keep business checking and credit accounts separate from personal accounts. This separation can help you maintain accurate and complete records of all businessrelated income and expenses and can help you plan accordingly for when tax payments are due.

If you’re unsure about your estimated tax obligations, it’s wise to consult a tax specialist who can advise you on the best calculation method for your business. They can also help you to properly track and record your earnings and deductions.

Stay in the green.

Business owners know there are two essentials to keep a business running: profits and available cash. As spring can be a great time for growth, take action to ensure you are both profitable and maintaining a healthy cash flow. One best practice is to check your business

cash flow every week and use this checklist, found at https:// smallbusinessresources.wf.com/ eight-tips-for-small-businesscash-flow-management/. You may be profitable, but the profits may be stuck in accounts receivable. Focus on the timing of income and expenses to identify potential gaps and plan ahead to determine how much cash you’ll need to cover potential challenges. Nearly every small business will face a time when it needs more cash than it has on hand. During spring cleaning, you may want to consider if a business line of credit would help bridge any gaps your business encounters in cash flow. Consider making time to meet with your banker for a spring financial review that includes an assessment of your credit needs. A banker can walk you through the available options and help you

Menifee opens streamlined film office

MENIFEE – Menifee partnered with Inland Empire Film Services recently to offer a streamlined approach to attracting the film industry to the city. Menifee’s Film Office provides a one-stop location to obtain the resources necessary to film in the city, including filming permits, location assistance, traffic control, neighborhood notifications, police, fire, security and more.

Menifee’s diverse landscape, unique communities and breathtaking backdrops offer many opportunities within the city to use for featured films, shows and commercials. Industry professionals selecting Menifee for their filming

locations will also have the benefit of being located off Interstate 215, centered between Los Angeles and San Diego.

The partnership with IEFS allows Menifee to get in front of leading location managers within the industry. Since the 1990s, $1.4 billion in revenues have been added to the economy within the Inland Empire via the film industry and film crews have expressed a piqued interest in the area in recent years, citing the region’s rapidly growing development, scenery and unique landscapes as attractive for production.

“We are excited to work with the city of Menifee to attract

filming. Film productions bring significant economic benefits to cities through facility and hotel rentals, purchasing for the location vendors, utilizing local eateries, renting local equipment and hiring local crews,” Dan Taylor, president of Inland Empire Film Services, said. “Our focus is to showcase Menifee to the film industry while creating lasting economic impacts locally and assisting them with a film-friendly reduced permit fee and simplified permit process.”

Menifee is also actively working with IEFS in developing a film location catalog consisting of private, public and commercial locations throughout the city available for filming opportunities. The film catalog will be available on the city’s Economic Development website at http://www.menifeebusiness.com/film and at http:// www.cityofmenifee.us/film

“The entertainment industry is a catalyst for economic development as it supports thousands of service and supply industries including advertising, print media, makeup, costumes, craft talent and services, while benefiting local hotels, restaurants, caterers, apparel, tailor and floral shops,” Gina Gonzalez, director of Menifee’s Economic Development Department, said.

choose the right credit options that make sense. Remember: the more you talk about your business, your needs and your goals, the better guidance you’ll receive.

Dust off your business plan.

Every small business should have a formal written business plan to help with business decisions and strategic planning. If you have one already, spring is the time to do a quick review and consider updates to reflect your current business needs and goals.

If you don’t have one, set aside time to draft this important document. From start-up to succession planning, a business plan serves as a guide through the entire lifecycle of a business. An effective plan can help business owners prioritize how to spend their time and money, and how to set measurable goals. It also can help identify current or future obstacles so you

can better anticipate and avoid potential risks. In addition, a business plan may help you obtain business financing. For example, to obtain a Small Business Administration loan or some larger business loans and lines of credit, lenders may require a formal business plan before extending credit. Giving your small business a good spring cleaning is not only refreshing, but it’s also a strategic and productive use of time. By updating your business plan, managing cash flow and organizing your finances, you’ll find that your small business is ready to head into spring better prepared to grow and succeed.

Joseph Mishriki is Wells Fargo’s branch banking region director for the San Diego Region. His region consists of branch locations and employees in San Diego County and the Imperial Valley.

“This powerful economic engine can bring in millions of dollars in spending related to tourism for a city like Menifee.”

For more information on filming in Menifee, visit http://www. cityofmenifee.us/film , contact Menifee’s Film Office at Inland

Empire Film Services at 909-4608100, ext. 101, or email menifee@ iefilmpermits.com. For more information on Menifee’s Office of Economic Development, call 951-672-6777 or email econdev@ cityofmenifee.us Submitted by city of Menifee.

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

Vendor applications available now for Temecula’s 13th annual Health & Community Resource Fair

TEMECULA ─ Temecula’s 13th annual Health & Community Resource Fair vendor applications and guidelines are available. The city is seeking vendors in the fields of health and wellness that can provide free health screenings, community resources, emergency preparedness, public safety awareness and more.

Temecula’s Health & Community Resource Fair will be held Saturday, Sept. 30, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Temecula Civic

This year’s Temecula Health & Community Resource Fair will take place Saturday, Sept. 30. Valley News/Courtesy photo

Center and Town Square Park, 41000 Main Street. This event is designed to provide the community with the latest information on health-related resources and services around the Temecula Valley and offer a wide range of nonprofit organizations from our region, exhibiting services from health, wellness, special needs and veteran/military services.

If you are an organization that meets these criteria and would like to be part of this year’s Health &

Community Resource Fair, be sure to complete and submit an application. Applications are available online only at http://TemeculaCA. gov/HealthFair.

For more information, call 951-694-6464 and stay tuned for additional Community Service programming by following @ TemeculaParksAndRec on social media.

Submitted by city of Temecula.

Animal Friends of the Valleys asks

donations toward

low-cost spay/neuter and vaccine clinic

munity donors, are helping the nonprofit animal shelter meet its goal of raising $2.7 million for the new clinic.

In 2022, AFV veterinarians performed nearly 13,000 shelter and community pet spay/neuter surgeries, yet the demand keeps rising. Surgeries are currently performed by our veterinarian and RVT staff in a mobile clinic. The facility is too small for the number of pets needing services.

AFV’s goal is to unite the AFV shelter and clinic campuses to make it more convenient for the six cities they serve. The new clinic

is currently under construction. The new clinic will service the growing communities and will include modern procedure rooms and equipment, spacious air-conditioned lobby and an increased capacity to meet the demands of the pet community.

Every dollar counts. AFV said it is so appreciative of its current supporters but also needs the support from local businesses and community members. Mo Middleton, executive director at AFV, encouraged local businesses to give at least $1,000 so the goal can be reached.

Animal Friends of the Valleys has been serving the community since 1987. Last year alone, AFV welcomed over 8,600 dogs and cats and was pleased to report they are at the highest adoption rate in its 36-year history. Leave a legacy and support the animals by contacting Beth Soltysiak, director of development at AFV, at beth@afv.org or 951676-0618, ext. 218, or visit http:// animalfriendsofthevalleys.com/ capitalcampaign.

Submitted by Animal Friends of the Valleys.

nation clinic. Donors, including Terry and Cindy Gilmore with Paradise Chevrolet Cadillac, Petco Love Foundation and other com-

do more than just build your business –we help build your

LOS ANGELES — Insurance

Commissioner Ricardo Lara announced that an insurance company offering home warranties will refund Californians deceived by a misleading mailer sent to hundreds of thousands of consumers. An investigation by the California Department of Insurance found that Response Indemnity Company of California worked with an unlicensed marketing company that mailed a “final notice” to consumers falsely warning that their home warranty was expiring. Because of the Department’s action, Response Indemnity will allow consumers to cancel the home warranty and receive a refund if the consumer purchased the warranty because of the mailer.

“This insurance company allowed fake marketing tactics to be used in order to garner more business and deceive consumers,” Lara said. “My Department’s investigation stopped these illegal actions and Californians who bought home warranties they did not need will receive the refunds they deserve.”

The Department served an Order to Show Cause to Response Indemnity after discovering it had entered into an agreement with Integrity Admin Group Inc., an unlicensed marketing company, that resulted in Integrity Admin Group creating fake home warranty brand names and sending out

the “final notice” mailers to hundreds of thousands of California consumers. The fake brand names included Home Warranty Direct, Home Warranty Resolutions, Home Warranty Solutions, New Home Warranty and Like New Home Warranty, and would appear in the upper lefthand corner of the mailer. The Department served a Cease and Desist Order to Integrity Admin Group that included the fake brand names. Under the terms of the settlement agreement, consumers who received the mailer and purchased home warranties as a result are permitted to cancel the warranty and receive a full refund. To request a refund, eligible consumers should email carefunds@integrity.car with the subject line “Refund Request (policy number, last name, first name)” by October 9.

The Department of Insurance protects consumers by investigating illegal sales of home warranties and making sure that claims are properly paid. Before purchasing a home warranty (also known as a “home protection contract”), we urge homeowners to visit our website where they can view the company’s performance and complaint data, and make sure the company has a valid license to sell insurance.

The website is www.insurance. ca.gov/01-consumers/105-type/ Home-Protection-Contracts.cfm

Lovers

Right Home - Right Price

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

Offered at $880,000

Offered

In Up Market Audi Murphy Ranch! Open modern-concept layout. Laminate hardwood floors & recessed lighting thruout. Family room w/fplc. Adjacent chef’s kit w/ custom hardwood cabinets, granite counters/backsplash,

Offered

Joe Naiman Writer

The area of the planned Whitewood Condo/Apartment Project development is not within the boundaries of the Eastern Municipal Water District or the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, so annexation into the EMWD and MWD boundaries is required. The annexation into MWD was approved by the MWD board Tuesday, April 11.

The 31.67-acre parcel within the city of Murrieta is along Clinton Keith Road east of Whitewood Road. The plan is for 483 multi-family dwelling units. Because 2.49 acres of the 31.67 acres will be public roads, the net area of 29.18 acres would create a density of 16.55 dwelling units per acre. The construction would be phased with 27 condominium buildings totaling 153 units being built during one phase and the 11 apartment buildings totaling 330 units being constructed in the other phase. The construction is expected to begin in mid-2023, and the units are expected to be ready for occupancy in mid-2024.

A February 2022 Eastern Municipal Water District board meeting requested the annexation of the area. The annual projected water demand is 167.7 acre-feet.

MWD has an annexation fee which is currently $6,875 per net acre. If the annexation is completed during 2023, the total fee will be $205,612.50, which includes a $5,000 processing fee. The developer would be financially responsible for the annexation fee which does not include EMWD or Local Agency Formation Commission annexation fees.

After the annexation is complete, the land would also be subject to MWD property tax and standby charge rates. The current MWD property tax is 0.0035% of the assessed valuation of each parcel. MWD’s annual water standby charge is $6.94 per acre and $6.94 for a parcel of less than one acre.

The city of Murrieta was the lead agency for the environmental mitigated negative declaration. The mitigated negative declaration was initially adopted in October 2022 and an addendum was adopted in December 2022. The Metropolitan Water District board action also included certifying that MWD reviewed and considered the information in the environmental documentation.

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

Misleading mailers like this one were sent to many California residents falsely warning that their house warranty was expiring.

Murrieta’s Autumn Pease selected 10th in Women’s Professional Fastpitch softball draft

Derryl Trujillo

Sports Writer

MURRIETA – Monday, April 17, was a dream come true for 24 women selected in the inaugural Women’s Professional Fastpitch softball draft including one with local ties.

Autumn Pease, a 2018 graduate of Murrieta Mesa, with collegiate stops at Idaho State and the University of Minnesota, was selected 10th overall (second pick of the second round) by the Texas Smoke, who are making their debut in 2023 with an impressive roster.

“Being drafted is absolutely amazing and is giving me an opportunity that I never thought I was going to have,” Pease said. “I’m kind of starstruck with some of the big names that I will be surrounded by…from owners to players. This is going to be the experience of a lifetime and a great step for women’s sports.”

WPF (Women’s Professional Fastpitch) is the official professional fastpitch league in the United States, founded by USA Softball, USSA and Smash It Sports, with their goal being to showcase the best athletes in softball, provide a world-class experience for fans, and connect young fans to their idols.

“Twenty-four athletes got to watch a professional team write their name down on a card, and hear their name called out on stage,” Commissioner Lauren Chamberlain said in a league release. “As a former draftee (NPF 2015), I know that feeling well, and to be a part of another athlete getting to experience that…I can’t put it into words how special that is.”

In 105 career appearances for Minnesota, Pease has pitched a 2.59 ERA with 509 strikeouts in 475.1 innings. She’s posted a 44-25 record, including 16 wins this season placing her second in the Big Ten conference for victories. So far this season in Minnesota the Golden Gophers are 25-16 and 6-6 in a very competitive Big Ten conference.

As their ace going into this week, Pease is sporting a 17-6 record with 22 starts and 27 total appearances in 142.1 innings of work. She also has thrown three shutouts this season, as well as two the year before, which is when she added a no-hitter to her resume against Nebraska.

With a healthy recovery from bicep surgery two years ago, Pease was fourth in the Big Ten last season for ERA at 1.75 in 116 innings of work, which also placed her 57th nationally. Minnesota was 31-13

overall and 29-11 in the Big Ten, falling in the Los Angeles Super Regional (hosted by UCLA).

Pease was told she might not be able to pitch after her surgery, based on the very little experience they have with underhand throwing athletes, so with that behind her, the rebound has been nothing short of amazing. Her previous stop was at Idaho State in 2019 where as a Bengal she led their staff with a 2.42 ERA, recording 15 starts and 24 appearances with a 10-5 overall record in just under 122 innings of work. The Bengals were 20-27 and 10-7 in Big Sky Conference play during her lone season in Pocatello.

“The southern heat might get to me at first, after my cold years in Minnesota, but I’m super excited to finish my final college season strong, then focus on the next chapter,” Pease said.

While at Murrieta Mesa, Pease was part of their 2017 CIF-SS championship team and finished her career with a 1.76 ERA, 53 wins, and had 539 strikeouts, two of which are records she still holds to this day.

“I have known and coached Autumn since she was 10 years old and from the first time I saw her on a field I knew she was destined to be great,” Murrieta Mesa coach Tony Romero said via text message. “Her work ethic and drive to be the best has gotten her to the next level and beyond. She’s set the standard and paved the way for future Rams.”

The Smoke will open their campaign on June 15 in Texas, to which Pease tweeted, “Yeehaw.”

As of Monday, April 24, after pitching two shutouts over the Iowa Hawkeyes, Pease has been named Big Ten Pitcher of the Week, the conference office announced. Pease made two starts and three appearances against Iowa, not allowing a single run through 16 innings of work. The Murrieta native picked up all three wins, tossing 24 strikeouts and allowing three walks from opposing batters. Autumn now ranks first in the Big Ten in strikeouts (206), second in victories (20), and third in both ERA (1.55) and opposing batting average (.196).

This marks her third weekly honor from the league and second this season, with her first of 2023 coming on March 13 following Minnesota’s undefeated weekend at the Gopher Indoor Classic.

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

Former Murrieta Mesa pitcher Autumn Pease in action during a Southwestern League softball game circa 2018.

Valley News/Time Stood Still Photography

On Monday, April 17, Murrieta native and current University of Minnesota standout, Autumn Pease, was selected 10th in the inaugural Women’s Professional Fastpitch draft in Oklahoma City by the Texas Smoke. Valley News/Courtesy photo

[Left] Murrieta Mesa 2018 graduate Autumn Pease, seen here in action this season for the University of Minnesota, will be playing professionally in June for the Texas Smoke. Valley News/Courtesy photo

[Right] Murrieta Mesa alum and current pitcher for the University of Minnesota, Autumn Pease, was drafted 10th overall by the Texas Smoke. Valley News/Courtesy photo

Ninth green heroics propel Nighthawks to win over Wolfpack and take league title

Derryl Trujillo

Sports Writer

MURRIETA – A roughly threehour Southwestern League golf match between Murrieta Valley and Great Oak on Thursday afternoon, April 20, came down to a few putts on the ninth green at Bear Creek Golf Club in Murrieta. Both putts went the Nighthawks’ way in a 187188 win which secured a shared league championship for Murrieta Valley who can win an outright title on Tuesday, April 25, against Murrieta Mesa. It’s their first league title since 2018.

Murrieta Valley sophomore

Jayden Alden, playing in the second group for Nighthawks coach Chris Mitchell, reached the par five ninth hole in two and then drained a 60-foot putt for eagle. He earned medalist honors with a bogey free three under par round of 33 which also included a birdie at the par five third hole.

“For a majority of that putt I actually thought it was short,” Alden said. “But it was online and over those last few feet kept its speed, eventually falling. I’m so proud of our team for winning the league title but there’s still more out there for us to do.”

After the first groups from each side posted a combined score of 77, that putt gave the Nighthawks a six-shot lead with two groups of three in.

Sam Amoroso shot a one under

par round of 35 for Great Oak in that last group, which included back-toback birdies at the eighth and ninth holes that nearly brought the sides to a deadlock. However, Murrieta Valley’s Clay Yarbro reached the par five final hole in two and two putted from a nearly identical spot to Alden’s eagle putt for a birdie which gave his team the win.

“We’ve talked about finishing

strong all year and seeing Clay and Jayden come through like they did today was the difference in this match,” Mitchell said. “We were the team to beat in the mid-2000s when we had guys like Rickie Fowler and Josh Anderson. So, it’s nice to see another group of guys win another banner. Great Oak is a very classy program that has set the standard down here for the last 15 years or so

and we always appreciate the times we get to play them.”

At Bear Creek Golf Club (Par 36)

Scores listed in group order:

Murrieta Valley scores

Rocco Judge - 37, *Brayden

Gilpin - 40, Jayden Alden - 33, Travis McSparran - 39, Clay Yarbro

- 39, Dominic Taverrite - 39

Team Total - 187

Great Oak scores

Linfield Christian downs Lakeside at Storm Stadium

Ryan Abuan - 37, *Bobby Erling - 40, Nathan Sampson - 38, Koa Baur - 40, Sam Amoroso - 35, Sebastian Glenn - 38

Team Total - 188

*Not counted towards team score

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

JP Raineri

Sports Editor

LAKE ELSINORE – On

Saturday, April 15, Linfield

Christian and Lakeside High School had “The Diamond” all to themselves, along with their families and fans, cherishing every play made on the same field the Single-A affiliate of the San Diego Padres play on.

It would be the Lions who claimed a 10-4 victory, despite a big push by Lakeside in the seventh inning. AJ Farnell, Nolan Hill, Roman Peralta and Christian Ulloa all drove in runs in the frame for the Lancers. By that time, Linfield had enough breathing room to secure the victory thanks to a six-run second inning. Gavin Malcomson,

Elijah Butler and Jake Valencia all moved runners across the plate with RBIs in their big inning.

Noah Getz picked up the win as he toed the rubber for Linfield Christian going four innings, allowing zero runs on four hits, striking out one and walking one.

Eric Quintero started the game for Lakeside and lasted two innings, allowing 11 hits and nine runs while striking out two. Ulloa threw four innings out of the bullpen to keep the Lions at bay the best he could.

When the dust settled, the Lions tallied 16 hits on the day with Jordan Simon, Gavin Kramer, Butler, Malcomson and Drew Taylor each managing multiple hits. Simon led Linfield with three hits in four at bats while Valencia went big fly with a homerun in the

second inning.

Christian Rodriguez went 2-for-2 at the plate to lead Lakeside in hits. The game between the two was a non-league bout between the two neighbors. Lakeside, in the Inland Valley League, is currently in second place behind Orange Vista, who they play twice this week before the playoff brackets come out Monday, May 1, from the CIF Southern Section offices.

Linfield, who are three games behind Aquinas, will look to remain in the second-place spot of the Ambassador League as they have a busy week with two games against their first-place foes as well as one final game with Western Christian to wrap up the regular season. JP

Murrieta Valley’s Jayden Alden hits a tee shot in the April 20 Southwestern League match against Great Oak at Bear Creek Golf Club in Murrieta. Valley News/Andrez Imaging

Great Oak’s Nathan Sampson tees off on the sixth hole of last Thursday’s Southwestern League golf match against Murrieta Valley at Bear Creek Golf Club in Murrieta. Valley News/Andrez Imaging

Great Oak’s Ryan Abuan hits a tee shot in Southwestern League golf match against Murrieta Valley at Bear Creek Golf Club in Murrieta Thursday, April 20. Valley News/Andrez Imaging

Murrieta Valley’s Clay Yarbro and Dominic Taverrite walk up the ninth fairway at the Southwestern League match against Great Oak at Murrieta’s Bear Creek Golf Club on Thursday, April 20.

Murrieta Valley golfers gather around Nighthawks coach Chris Mitchell after a 187-188 victory over Great Oak, which clinched a league title for the first time since 2018.

Valley News/Andrez Imaging Valley News/Derryl Trujillo photo

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

Linfield Christian players celebrate just outside their dugout at The Diamond in Lake Elsinore Saturday, April 15. Valley News/Courtesy photo

Linfield Christian’s DJ Kerr laces a 2 RBI single against Lakeside at The Diamond in Lake Elsinore Saturday, April 15. Valley News/Rob Davis Photography

Luke Waddell (5) goes airborne to make the play on a hard-hit ball at second base. Valley News/Rob Davis Photography

Linfield Christian’s Jordan Simon (21) gets held up at third base by his coach in the Lions 10-4 victory over Lakeside at The Diamond in Lake Elsinore Saturday, April 15. Valley News/Rob Davis Photography

Vista Murrieta ahead of the pack, with one week to go

JP Raineri

Sports Editor

With one week left in the regular season, and two games to go, except for Vista Murrieta and Murrieta Mesa who have a game to make up due to rainouts earlier this month, the Broncos sit atop the Southwestern League standings after winning their rubber match last week against Great Oak (Friday, April 21).

It was a bit of a heartbreaker for Great Oak as they lost the lead late in a 9-2 defeat. The game was tied at two runs apiece with Vista Murrieta batting in the top of the fifth when Kaden Spencer singled on the first pitch of the at bat, scoring one run. The Broncos would then pile it on with back-to-back three run innings, distinguishing any hopes the Wolfpack had of getting out of second place in the standings.

Lucas Pirko led Vista Murrieta to victory on the mound. The hurler allowed nine hits and two runs over seven innings, striking out nine and walking zero. Vista Murrieta gathered 11 hits with Spencer and Vaughn Neckar paving the way with their multiple hits on the day. Spencer went 3-for-4 at the plate with 3 RBIs to lead the offensive charge.

Braden Wauschek led things off on the pitcher’s mound for Great Oak as he went four innings, allowing two runs on four hits, striking out eight and walking zero. Wyatt Toth, Matthew Vadaboncoeur and Cade Johnson each contributed in relief for the Wolfpack, who also tallied nine hits behind Brenden Shanahan, Ryan Lee and Nate Smith who all collected multiple hits.

The season concludes this week with a tight race for the playoffs, and as we all know, anything can happen. The top three spots from league will advance, and maybe a fourth, should the brackets need an at-large team to even out wild card play. Right now, those three teams are Vista Murrieta (9-3), Temecula Valley (8-5), after they also fought off the Wolfpack in a Saturday matchup 9-0, which dropped Great Oak to third place at 7-6.

With only two games remaining, that’s how many games separate Murrieta Valley and Chaparral from a date with the postseason. Also, as it stands now, Murrieta Mesa would need to win out this week (one game versus Vista Murrieta, two games against Temecula Valley) to have any sort of chance to even talk about the playoffs. Murrieta Valley wraps up with Vista Murrieta, and Great Oak welcomes Chaparral, so things could get very interesting as the week progresses.

*League leaders (overall season stats, taken from MaxPreps): Batting Average: Dylan Fein, Great Oak – .500, 33 for 66; Braylon Doughty, Chaparral –.486, 28 for 61.

Home Runs: Gavin Fein, Great Oak – 3; Braylon Doughty, Chaparral – 2 ERA : Adler Cecil, Temecula Valley – 0.67, 42.0 innings

pitched, 4 earned runs; Braylon Doughty, Chaparral – 0.97, 43.1 innings pitched, 4 earned runs; Ian Mowad, Murrieta Valley –1.43, 44.0, 9 earned runs; Cody Liscio, Temecula Valley – 1.66, 46.1 innings pitched, 11 earned runs; Tanner Blackmon, Murrieta Mesa – 1.68, 33.1 innings pitched, 8 earned runs.

Strikeouts : Braylon Doughty, Chaparral – 71; Adler Cecil, Temecula Valley – 55, Cody Liscio, Temecula Valley – 50. Braden Wauschek, Great Oak – 43; Ian Mowad, Murrieta Valley – 42. Wins : Adler Cecil, Temecula Valley – 5, Braylon Doughty, Chaparral – 5; Brady Pavlovsky, Chaparral – 3; Cody Liscio, Temecula Valley – 3.

*Must be consistent and averaged with top stats reported. Photos and sports scores/stats can be submitted to sports@ reedermedia.com

Boys volleyball playoff brackets announced by CIF-SS office

Derryl Trujillo

Sports Writer

MURRIETA - On Sunday, April 23, the CIF-SS office in Los Alamitos revealed playoff brackets for the boys’ volleyball playoffs to commence Monday, April 24 and Tuesday, April 25, with wildcard matches and Thursday, April 27, with opening round contests.

In Division 3 there will be a firstround matchup that doesn’t happen all that often with a matchup between league champions in Vista Murrieta and Elsinore. That is a Thursday night matchup at Bronco Arena with a 6 p.m. first serve. Twenty of the 38 teams, including wildcard entries, in this division were league champions necessitating the odd matchup.

Before we get to Thursday’s first round there was Monday and in some cases Tuesday wildcard matches to get through. With updates that will be posted online, here are the matches involving Valley News area teams.

Tuesday, April 25

*Torrance at Paloma Valley (Division 3) with the winner

playing at second seeded Mission Viejo on Thursday.

*Perris at Murrieta Mesa (Division 4) with the winner playing at Santa Monica Crossroads on Thursday.

*Temecula Valley at Orange Vista (Division 5) with the winner playing at Magnolia on Thursday.

Thursday, April 27 Division 3: Elsinore at Vista Murrieta (winner to play Valencia/ Valencia or Oak Park)

Division 5: Wildcard “I” winner at Nuview Bridge (winner to play Wildcard “G” winner or fifth ranked Woodcrest Christian), Wildcard “T” winner at Temescal Canyon (winner to play Wildcard “S” winner or Samueli Academy), Wildcard “Y” winner at Hemet West Valley (winner to play Wildcard “Z” winner or Hawthorne)

Division 6: California Military Institute at Cathedral City (winner to play second seed Glendale Adventist or Bloomington)

Second round matches are scheduled for Saturday, April 29, with the quarterfinals set for Wednesday, May 3 and semifinals

If there are any changes in time, date or site of a playoff match please email Derryl Trujillo, who can be reached at socaltrekkie@

gmail.com, or send info to sports@ reedermedia.com

Paloma Valley boys’ volleyball players in action during a match earlier this season. Valley News/Action Captures Media Group Saturday, May 6. Championship matches will be either at Cerritos College or designated venues on Saturday, May 13.

Liberty softball looks to go undefeated in Mountain Pass League

Four RBI day for Attiana Thompson brings victory for Liberty over West Valley

JP Raineri

Sports Editor

HEMET – Liberty’s Attiana

Thompson helped lead her Bison past Hemet’s West Valley 17-3 on Friday, April 21. With four runs batted in off two doubles, Thompson ensured Liberty would stay undefeated in league play. Currently, with an 8-0 record, the Bison have two games left in the regular season to accomplish something not many first-year programs can, a perfect league season.

Up until their game against West Valley, Liberty had held every league opponent scoreless, and even then, they mercy ruled their Hemet neighbors with an offensive surge that could not be contained. The Bison ladies fired things up in the first inning when they scored two runs on a Kaylee Fraund double and an Andi Clabough RBI single.

A four-run second inning, threerun third inning, two-run fourth

and six-run sixth inning would put Liberty back on the bus, headed home early in the afternoon.

Yasmine Lopez, Miah Watson, Lissette Quiñones, Sam Roman and Brianna Longaker powered the big six-run inning with RBIs.

Clabough was the winning pitcher for Liberty with her three innings toeing the rubber. She allowed one run on four hits, striking out four and walking zero. Longaker and Aubrie Gosy entered the game out of the bullpen and helped to close out the game in relief. The Bison scattered ten hits in the game with Thompson, Fraund and Alex Guerrero all managing multiple hits with two each.

West Valley had eight hits in the game with Liliana Mahan and Trinity Castleberry collecting two hits each on the day, including an RBI from Castleberry.

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

Broncos shortstop DJ Ruth attempts to turn a double play as Vista Murrieta defeats Great Oak 9-2 in Southwestern League action Friday, April 21. Valley News/David Canales photo

Great Oak’s Nate Smith makes a diving catch as the Wolfpack falls to the Broncos 9-2 last Friday afternoon. Valley News/David Canales photo

Liberty’s Brianna Longaker (10) races home scoring a run against West Valley Friday, April 21.

pitcher Andi Clabough (2) winds

Lake Elsinore area students honored in March

Diane A. Rhodes

Special to Valley News

The Lake Elsinore Valley Chamber of Commerce Student of the Month program, celebrating its 27th season of honoring students who make a difference, held its recognition ceremony Tuesday, March 14, at the Lakeside High School Lancer Round Table Café.

Lunch was prepared and served by members of the Lakeside Culinary Academy.

Program founder Sally Myers welcomed everyone to the local high school recognition program which acknowledges and honors college or trade school bound seniors for their character, their love of learning and commitment to academics in addition to participation in athletics, school activities and community service. It also commends those who have persevered through challenging life circumstances, all in a setting that honors God, country, family, community and free enterprise. Large bags filled with gifts, certificates of recognition and much more donated by the program’s sponsors were given to the award recipients. Each student received a medallion and was invited to the podium to share their personal story, past challenges and future goals with a room full of supporters that included principals, teachers, peers and family members, as well as community and school district dignitaries.

March’s students of the month are Elsinore High School’s Jericho Trey Lapitan and Leslie Valadez, Lakeside High School’s Adan Lupercio and Eisha Singh, Ortega High School’s Matthew Collaso Brown and Temescal Canyon High School’s Grace Carney and

Cesar Ruiz.

Elsinore High School

Jericho Trey Lapitan was chosen to represent Elsinore High School this month. Interim Principal Shawna Pedretti shared that Lapitan boasts a 4.36 GPA and is a member of the Earth Club and Cool Socks Club and volunteers with Habitat for Humanity projects.

Lapitan “is determined and does not allow failure as an option,” she said.

He said an obstacle he had to overcome occurred when he was chosen as Student of the Month and learned he would have to make a speech since he feared public speaking.

“I dreaded having to make this speech, but I came here today with a different mindset,” Lapitan said. “Prior to arriving here, I told myself that whatever happens, happens, and if I make a mistake or stutter a bit it’s okay because I’m only human. I told myself feeling nervous and anxious about public speaking is a normal feeling and it is a valid feeling.”

His Advanced Placement World History teacher Marni Druck said that during online learning, Jericho “went over and beyond on every assignment.” He plans to attend University of California Irvine’s School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences.

Pedretti said that Leslie Valadez, like Lapitan, also carries on the Elsinore High School foundation of tradition, caring and respect. She is ASB president, National FFA Organization vice president and serves as a student athletic trainer in the school’s sports medicine program. Valadez attends school board meetings at the Lake Elsinore Unified School District to present the board report and speak on behalf of the student body.

She is also a member of Student Congress, Students in Action and the Vet Team. Valadez is a youth leader at St. Frances of Rome Catholic Church.

“I have a passion and love for animals,” Valadez said.

She plans to major in animal sciences at college to work toward her dream career as a veterinarian. Her dedicated involvement with FFA has earned her the California State FFA Degree pin which demonstrates that a student has put an exceptional amount of time into their supervised agriculture experience, developed leadership skills and provided service to the community. Valadez is working on her American FFA Degree pin which shows dedication to

Temecula Valley students honored in March

a student’s chapter and state FFA association. It reflects the outstanding leadership abilities and community involvement exhibited throughout their FFA career.

Lakeside High School

Adan Lupercio was introduced by principal Henry Romero as one of two exceptional Lakeside High School Lancers chosen for the month of March. Lupercio has been in the AVID program all four years, vice president of the AP Spanish Club, varsity boys’ soccer team captain and is on the varsity boys’ cross-country team. He hopes to continue his soccer career at the college level. His Spanish teacher and coach for both sports, Juventino Morfin, said he

“He has a lot to be proud of, in the classroom and on the baseball field, but my favorite thing about Matthew is the way he uses his influence and wraps it around everyone in the group.”

Homeschooled before enrolling at Linfield for his high school years, Rezkalah said there was a lot of adjustments he needed to make. The recent death of his grandmother was an obstacle he faced.

“My grandmother was the glue of our family,” Rezkalah said. “I did take from her a great life lesson which is to value what is in front of you at the moment, never take for granted what God put in front of you.”

His nominating teacher, Ryan McKenzie, said he thinks all Rezkalah’s teachers would agree that “he is the most mature student we have ever had, and we absolutely appreciate that. He makes my job fun; he’s teachable, respectful and helpful to his peers.”

Diane A. Rhodes Special to Valley News

The Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce Student of the Month program, recognizing and inspiring academic excellence since 1993, held its monthly recognition breakfast Thursday, March 9, at the Murrieta Sizzler restaurant, 40489 Murrieta Hot Springs Road. Sally Myers, founder of the nonprofit program, welcomed everyone and shared the mission of the local high school recognition program which sets the criteria for the students who are chosen.

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

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

March’s students of the month are Chaparral High School’s Marinne Sheldon, Great Oak High School’s Allison Dobron, Linfield

Christian High School’s Matthew Rezkalah, Rancho Christian High School’s Lainey Hoopingarner, Temecula Preparatory School’s James Trutalli and Temecula Valley High School’s Elizabeth Ludwig.

Chaparral High School Principal

Tina Miller said that despite suffering from social anxiety, Marinne Sheldon puts herself out there to spread school spirit on campus every chance she gets.

Sheldon was in fourth grade when her family moved to Temecula and she described herself as a smart, shy, quiet child who pretty much let her grades speak for themselves.

“When I got to high school, I wanted to push myself to get and be more involved and that means I needed to overcome my social anxiety,” Sheldon said.

“My greatest contribution to my school and community is just the effort I put into promoting school culture and spirit on campus and the endless hours I have dedicated to being involved in different facets of Chaparral, from sports to clubs.

“I take pride in dressing up for every Spirit Day, attending as many sports games and school events that I can and just trying to create a sense of community among our students,” Sheldon said.

A life lesson she has learned in her eagerness to be so involved is that it’s OK to let go of some things to spend more time on things that you love and are passionate about. She plans to attend Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, to study various media arts such as photography, graphic design and film production.

Great Oak High School Principal

Aimee Ricken said Allison Dobron embraces all three facets of the school: academics, athletics and activities. With 3,000 students on campus, Ricken said student stamina was very low last year and “teacher fatigue was at an all-time low.” She said Dobron took the initiative to learn about the “5-Star Students” app and implemented it campuswide. This program enabled students to become more engaged with alerts, events and announcements at their fingertips.

“This provided a system for us to know where every student is at all times on campus,” Ricken said, which in turn eased teachers’ stress.

Dobron said she was very grateful to have been chosen as Student of the Month.

“Honestly, it is one of the best feelings in the world to know your hard work doesn’t go unnoticed by other people,” she said.

Admitting she struggled with anxiety, Dobron said a life lesson she took away from that is that feeling uncomfortable can be a good thing and she learned to take every opportunity that came her way. Her father said his favorite word in the English language is grit, which he thinks of as an acronym for guts, resilience, integrity and tenacity.

“Allison is a perfect exemplar of grit,” he said.

The entire faculty at Linfield Christian High School has a voice in choosing the Student of the Month and for March it was Matthew Rezkalah. Principal Carrie Washburn said,

Rezkalah will be attending Loyola Marymount University on a baseball scholarship.

Rancho Christian Principal Doris Jackson said Lainey Hoopingarner attended the school since preschool and she has personally known her since she was in the third grade. She boasts a high GPA, is captain of the girls’ soccer team, serves as ASB Vice President, is a member of the National Honor Society and is very involved with school activities.

“I have lived a very blessed life, but this is not to say my life has been perfect,” Hoopingarner said. “I’ve definitely had my share of obstacles, from familial issues to scholastic bumps in the road. I’ve had to be strong many times.”

After she began her first job at a local restaurant in summer 2021, she was the victim of ongoing sexual harassment and eventual assault from a much-older coworker.

“This changed me and caused me to grow,” Hoopingarner said. “I’m now a stronger woman because of this situation. A lesson I learned from this experience is to speak up. No matter how scared you are, do not be afraid to speak up for yourself or for others. Always go with your gut feeling because it’s always trying to tell you something.”

Hoopingarner plans to major in political science or criminal justice so that one day she can help other people who feel they can’t stand up for themselves.

James Trutalli has been at Temecula Preparatory School since kindergarten, making him a “heritage student,” and Head

met Lupercio as a freshman who wanted to be goalkeeper on the soccer team. He showed such promise that he was a starter in his freshman year and helped the team win back-to-back League titles.

“Adan had 21 shutouts in his career, a record for our school,” Morfin said.

Under his leadership, as captain of the cross-country team, they won a league title.

“Adan is a great student athlete and I’m looking forward to seeing him do great in his career of choice,” Morfin said. “It’s been my pleasure to have him in my classroom and on the field.”

Lupercio will graduate with

page C-8

of School Julie Fuller said he exemplifies being a lifelong learner. He serves as ASB president and is one of the few students to take Advanced Placement Latin.

Playing soccer since second grade, Trutalli was sidelined mentally and physically when he suffered a “semi-severe” concussion while playing on the varsity soccer team. It happened during one of the first League games, and as a result of the injury, Trutalli was out for the rest of the high school and club seasons. He could not do sports of any kind during his recovery.

“It was a difficult few months for me but I was lucky to have amazing teachers to support me and help me through,” Trutalli said.

One of those teachers was his Latin teacher, Shoh Ueno, who read a statement provided by another teacher, Joseph Arreola, who could not be present for the ceremony.

“To James: There are few things in my career that make me feel as fulfilled as the trust that you have placed in me, and that’s because I think so highly of you. In fact, I have a hard time wrapping my mind around how someone that I think so highly of should look to me for wisdom and advice, not only academically but also personally,” Arreola said in the statement read by Ueno.

Temecula Valley High School

Principal Donna Lione said Elizabeth Ludwig is a true scholarathlete. She has been on the varsity girls’ soccer team all four years and carries a 4.45 GPA. She has helped her team win state and CIF championships.

“She is the perfect Golden Bear,” Lione said, adding that Ludwig’s athletics tutoring contributed to the team having a 4.04 overall GPA.

“One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned in four years of high school is that you have to seize every opportunity that comes your way no matter how small or obscure you may think it is,” Ludwig said.

Soccer coach Jennifer Guinn said as a starting goalkeeper she has found Ludwig to be a reliable, balanced and detail-oriented person.

Serving as team captain last year, Guinn told the senior, “You have left major legacies at Temecula Valley High School.”

Ludwig will attend Westmont College in Santa Barbara to play Division 2 soccer and major in engineering and physics.

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

Recipients of the Lake Elsinore Valley Chamber of Commerce Student of the Month award for March are, standing from left, Matthew Collaso Brown, Jericho Trey Lapitan, Adan Lupercio and Cesar Ruiz; and seated from left, Leslie Valadez, Eisha Singh and Grace Carney.

Recipients of the Temecula Valley Student of the Month award for March, including from left, Marinne Sheldon, Matthew Rezkalah, James Trutalli, Lainey Hoopingarner, Allison Dobron and Elizabeth Ludwig.

Valley News/John P. Hess photo

Valley News/John P. Hess photo see STUDENTS,

Firefighters learn to overcome stress symptoms at CTEX training session at Pechanga Resort and Casino

Tony Ault Staff Writer

The underlying method of helping a firefighter or police officer under stress from frightening and traumatic experiences they have experienced is to listen carefully and say, “That must have been terrible.”

For them, it was and will likely be, a traumatic experience hitting so hard that they will try coping with drinking, drugs or other extreme methods, such as suicide. It will stay with them, unless they prepare themselves on how to work through the experience.

These topics are the focus of a documentary film called “Florian’s Knights” about a motorcycle club initially formed in Toronto, Canada and now spreading across all of North America from New York to San Diego. It is a motorcycle club whose sole purpose is to help fellow firefighters and police officers reduce the effects of their posttraumatic stress disorder.

Wind therapy

Florian’s Knights, with its mission of “We Ride to Survive,” provides what its members like to call “Wind Therapy” where within minutes a ride will reduce the PTSD stress symptoms up to 37%. This is according to a unique psychological study with brain scans made by a Canadian psychologist. While not a solution to the root cause of PTSD, it is showing favor among firefighters across the nation and overseas.

The viewing of “Florian’s Knights,” produced by Panayioti Yannitsos with a number of firefighters featured in the film, was seen by Eddie Sells, Hemet’s newest Fire Chief and president of the California State Firefighters’ Association who admittedly said he has some PTSD. It was Yannitsos who suggested bringing four of the firefighters in the film to a CSFA Training & Education Expo at

the Pechanga Resort and Casino Wednesday, April 19.

“I certainly feel that having more awareness about PTSD and behavioral health is very, very positive,” Sells, who emceed the event, said. “Throughout my 30plus year career PTSD wasn’t really discussed and probably within the last 5 to 10 years it’s more a regular topic. There are actually proactive steps and programs that firefighters in this generation seem to be more vocal in participating, which is a good thing.

“I think it’s important to listen. Especially as leaders and as somebody that’s a leader of fire service, somebody that now has a bit of influence; it’s important to make sure we are reaching back and making sure that firefighters have the support and the tools that they need to effectively do their jobs every day but still have balance, life, mental health, wellness and all of that,” Sells concluded.

Followed many firefighters Yannitsos said the film is about firefighters across North America.

“We followed firefighters from Detroit, Toronto, Vancouver and New York City. We found that post-traumatic stress injuries are prevalent in the fire services across North America and cases they haven’t spoken about for generations. The groundbreaking thing about this movie is that senior firefighters from some of the largest departments in America have spoken the truth about posttraumatic stress and how it has affected their lives and their families and how they are trying to heal from it. And one of those ways they are trying to heal is through wind therapy, riding their motorcycles. We found out it’s not just the wind therapy. It’s also scientifically proven to lower stress levels even after just a 20-minute ride. Then the camaraderie of these motorcycle clubs kind of act as peer support groups for like-minded men and

women of service and it provided an incredible backdrop for a true coping mechanism for PTSD.”

More than 100 current or retired firefighters and some of their spouses and partners watched the film, which was followed by a panel of invited firefighters from across the country including Florian’s Knights Motorcycle Club’s Rod MacDonald from Vancouver; Fire Captain Darnell McLaurin from the Detroit Fire Department and Axemen Motorcycle club; Toronto Fire Department Captain Jack Cooper; and the psychologist who made the special brain scan test in Vancouver.

Cooper, featured in the film, who loves to ride his motorcycle said, “I’m one of the motorcycle riders and found that stress was being relieved by riding motorcycles. The doctor in the film found that the cortisone levels were lowered by riding motorcycles. There is a lot of PTSD in the fire department and it was helping us.”

Talk about it

He explained people are talking about PTSD unlike veterans of the first and second world wars where people didn’t talk about it. “Now we do and our message is we want all people to talk about it all the time because there are some dark things that go on and it takes one vision of darkness to hurt us for the rest of our lives.”

The CTEX attendees learned it is best to take advantage of what department resources they may have from psychologists, social workers and simply a friend or fellow worker who has or is experiencing that same traumatic experience day after day.

The documentary “Florian’s Knight’s” can be seen on Amazon Prime Video and other online streaming outlets.

History

In April of 2018, director Panayioti Yannitsos met with Crowbar Pictures founder Shawn

Children, older adults share love of books

MURRIETA – When 88-yearold Peggy Scarborough reads a book, she enters the world within the pages. She and other older adults who are diagnosed with dementia and live at Vineyard Place, an Anthem Memory Care community in Murrieta, shared their love of adventure recently by reading with 20 second grade students from Cole Canyon Elementary School. Vineyard Place is located at 24325 Washington Ave., in Murrieta.

“Many of our seniors have enjoyed reading all their lives, and it’s a fun and engaging way to connect with the youngsters,” Christopher Balmes, life engagement director for Vineyard Place, said. “Everyone benefits from this creative interaction, and we hope new friendships will result.”

The older adults and students also practiced their golfing skills together at the community. Submitted by Anthem Memory Care.

Galvao to discuss the Florian’s Knights, a new firefighter motorcycle club making waves across North America. Driving home from that meeting, Pan found himself bumper-to-bumper with retired Vancouver Battalion Chief Rod MacDonald, who was riding his motorcycle, a Florian’s Knights patch on his back. Staring at the patch for several minutes in traffic, the serendipitous event convinced Yannitsos to sign on to direct the film.

Over the course of three years,

Yannitsos and a core team of only four fellow filmmakers slept in fire halls across North America, often in 24-hour shifts, responding to emergencies in real time. “Florian’s Knights” is directed, edited and produced by Yannitsos, executive produced by Shawn Galvao, with cinematography by Jon Thomas (“The Angel Tree”) and Blake Davey (“Someone Like Me,” “Rupture”), and sound design by Jamie Spittal (“Freedom Besieged”).

Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com

Adult Day Care

Valley News/Courtesy photo

A second grade student reads with a group of older adults from Vineyard Place, an Anthem Memory Care community in Murrieta.

Storytime with the second grade students and older adults from Vineyard Place in Murrieta is a welcome interaction for participants.

Valley News/Courtesy photos

Caltrans introducing new highway signs across California; first in six years

Tony Ault Staff Writer

Motorists will soon see Caltrans’ new “Rebuilding CA” highway signs highlighting the record levels of state and federal infrastructure funding being put to work on projects statewide to create a safer, more sustainable and more resilient transportation system.

The sign unveiling took place as Caltrans and local partners broke ground on a $36.8 million project to replace three aging bridges on State Route 99 in Madera County. This project was made possible by $26 million in funding from the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act 2021 and $10 million from Senate Bill 1, the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017.

“With unprecedented infrastructure investments at the state and federal level, along with the necessary policy alignment, California is making once-in-a-generation upgrades to our transportation system up and down our state,” California Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin said. “These new signs, starting with this important project in Madera County, will serve as reminders that we’re Rebuilding

California for a safer, cleaner, more equitable and more prosperous future for all Californians.”

The IIJA, also known as the “Bipartisan Infrastructure Law,” is seen as an investment in the nation’s infrastructure and competitiveness. California receives federal infrastructure funding based on formula and competitive grants. Based on formula funding alone, the IIJA will bring California an estimated $41.9 billion over five years.

A major update

This is the first major update to California’s highway construction signs in six years. Caltrans will not replace current construction signs and will only install the new signs on future projects, maintaining a common element in the state’s highway work zones.

To provide Californians with the latest news and information on state and federal infrastructure investments, Caltrans expanded RebuildingCA.ca.gov, the website tracking the progress of SB 1, to contain data on the increased federal funding. Website visitors can learn more about the different federal infrastructure programs, track the amount of funding California is receiving and find projects on an

updated interactive map.

Menifee

Menifee motorists will see new construction at Valley Boulevard between McCall Boulevard and Ridgemoor Street by the developer of Cimarron Ridge. Construction crews began installing underground improvements on the week of Monday, April 24.

As a result, the area of Valley Boulevard between McCall Boulevard and Ridgemoor Street will be subject to lane closures during this work. Traffic delays should be expected in the area through mid-May.

The Holland Road Overpass Capital Improvement Project will result in the closure of Hanover Lane and Antelope Road for the duration of the project, which is expected to last 17 months.

There will also be alternating lane closures on the I-215 Freeway from Newport Road to Scott Road on Friday, April 28 that will include Northbound I-215 from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. and the Southbound lane from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m.

Evans Road is now open as the developers of The Menifee 80 and Quartz Ranch have completed roadway improvements.

The city’s Menifee Road Capital

Board votes to initiate updates to the county’s noise ordinance

The Board of Supervisors unanimously voted Tuesday, April 18 to initiate amendments to the County’s noise ordinance in response to community concerns about enforcement of the existing ordinance, particularly by operators of Ranchos in the Coachella Valley.

The Board directed the Planning Department to analyze different ways to measure and regulate noise and bring back recommended ordinance changes.

Community members who would like to comment on amending the noise ordinance are encouraged to contact the Riverside County Planning Department at Planning@rivco.org . Residents are also encouraged to subscribe to the Planning Department newsletter for updates on their website at https://planning.rctlma. org

“I do look forward to meeting with folks in our communities to really discuss what an ordinance

will look like from the ground up, not from the top down. That’s what I’m hoping for,” Fourth District Supervisor V. Manuel Perez said during the Board meeting. “Mind you, this is an ordinance that’s countywide and even though we have our struggles in the eastern Coachella, there are other struggles in the Fifth District … in the Third District, in the Second District, in the First District, so whatever we come up with needs to have some sort of balance.”

The Board will also be looking to create a clear and effective noise ordinance that preserves the opportunity for nighttime events while also balancing the public’s right to peaceful enjoyment of their property. Specifically, the amended ordinance will establish regulations that will fairly enforce a noise ordinance that relies on sound level readings; appropriate sound level standards for the County’s variety of communities;

and special circumstances and special requirements for events.

In March, Perez directed the Planning Department to create a new County ordinance that could be a first of its kind in establishing a new land-use category for Ranchos in the Coachella Valley. Ranchos are large agricultural properties, date palm ranches, which include a primary residence. The properties are used by families to hold birthday parties, quinceañeras, weddings, baptisms and other family and cultural celebrations.

The County is preparing a draft ordinance that would define Ranchos, where these are located within the Fourth District, and determine what types of activities would be allowed, to give more options beyond those that exist in the countywide temporary events and zoning ordinances. Submitted by the County of Riverside.

Diamond Valley Lake data acquisition systems to be upgraded

Joe Naiman Writer

An April 11 Metropolitan Water District of Southern California board action will result in an upgrade to the data acquisition system at Diamond Valley Lake.

The MWD board authorized an agreement with Canary Systems California LLC, for an amount not to exceed $1.95 million to upgrade the data acquisition systems at Diamond Valley Lake and at Garvey Reservoir in Monterey Park. The planned upgrades include replacement of the existing remote monitoring units, piezometer, seepage weir sensors, radio equipment, power systems and communications components.

Diamond Valley Lake was completed in 2000 and is the state’s largest surface water reservoir with a storage capacity of 810,000 acre-feet. The reservoir provides emergency storage in the event of a major disaster, carryover storage to supply water under drought conditions, and seasonal storage to meet annual demands of MWD member agencies.

The lake was formed by the creation of three rock-filled earthen dams. The dams are monitored continuously by the dams’ monitoring network which includes weir level sensors, strong motion accelerographs and a geodetic deformation monitoring system as well as the automated data acquisition system.

(Garvey Reservoir was constructed in 1954 as a component of the Middle Feeder system, receives treated water from the F. E. Weymouth Water Treatment Plant in La Verne and has a maximum storage volume of 1,600 acre-feet.)

The data acquisition systems at Diamond Valley Lake and Garvey Reservoir automatically collect data from instrumentation in and around the dams. The dam monitoring systems provide early warning signs of potential dam distress and monitor

the real-time performance of the embankments and foundations. The systems typically use data acquisition systems which automatically read, store, and transmit measurements from piezometers, settlement sensors, seepage weirs, inclinometers, extensometers, anchor load cells, and strong motion accelerographs.

The data is transmitted through MWD’s wide area network to MWD headquarters in Los Angeles and to the Operations Control Center at Eagle Rock, which allows for continuous monitoring of dam performance, detection of potential conditions requiring a prompt response, and compilation of regulatory reports required by the state’s Division of Safety of Dams.

The Diamond Valley Lake data acquisition system collects data from approximately 300 instruments including seepage weirs, accelerographs, piezometers, and anchor load cells installed in the inlet/outlet tower. Approximately 50 instruments at Garvey Reservoir including piezometers, underdrain flow transducers, and liner drain flow meters collect data. The current instruments, monitoring equipment, and data acquisition software and hardware were installed at Diamond Valley Lake in the late 1990s and at Garvey Reservoir in 2011 and are reaching the end of their service life.

Hardware and power components of the systems have been deteriorating with an increasing frequency of failures at both facilities, resulting in incomplete or inaccurate data sets which require extensive manual corrections. Repair of the system components has become increasingly difficult because the units are no longer manufactured, and spare parts are no longer readily available. The original electronic hardware components including radios, motherboards and power regulators are also showing signs of deterioration.

MWD staff issued a Request for

Improvement Project to pave the roadway between Holland Road and Camino Cristal is now in progress with striping expected to be completed by the end of April.

Traffic signal improvements at Garbani and Menifee roads have been completed. The new traffic signal is in operation and lanes are open in all directions.

SCE utility trenching on Menifee Road from Newport to Holland to put in new power lines is active during daytime and nighttime hours at the intersection. Traffic control will be in place during project work. Message boards containing contact information for the project will also be placed in the project area. Work in this area is expected to continue through the end of April.

McCall Square 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 gas line installation continues 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 work will close Matthews Road during daytime hours to make the gas line improvements. Due to weather delays, work on this project has been extended until May. 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

Caltrans Caltrans alerts the public that Riverside Maintenance crews will perform various maintenance operations on Interstate 215 and State Route 91 in Riverside, weather permitting. Work will occur on Friday, April 28 from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m. The following are planned: work and closure at the East-bound SR-91 Van Buren Blvd on-ramp for a Hazmat Clean-up Friday, April 28 and for NB I-215 Blaine St. on-ramp Lanes No. 3 and No. 4 for paving along EB SR-91 connector lanes No. 1, No. 2 and No. 3 paving and NB I-215 Columbia and Center St.

Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com

MWD issues contracts for Lake Skinner outlet tower valve replacement, seismic analysis

Joe Naiman Writerr

An April 11 action of the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California board approved two contracts for the Lake Skinner outlet tower.

A $1,114,475 contract will be given to B&K Valves and Equipment Inc., for the replacement of two valves at the Lake Skinner outlet tower. The contract with Stantec Consulting Services Inc., will be for up to $900,000 (the actual amount will be based on work performed, and if more than $900,000 is needed, MWD staff can return to the board for the additional appropriation authorization) and will provide a detailed seismic analysis of the Lake Skinner outlet tower.

design and construction met the seismic criteria at the time, the preliminary structural analysis showed high stresses at the lower portion of the tower which could result in damage during a large seismic event.

MWD staff recommended a detailed structural analysis of the outlet tower to characterize tower performance under a major earthquake using current seismic evaluation tools. The results of the assessment will facilitate the decision-making process as to the extent and type of potential seismic upgrades, if any.

Qualifications to establish a pool of qualified candidates to replace the automated data acquisition systems. Each firm was evaluated based on its qualifications and staffing plan, costs, record of past performance, references, technical approach and methodology, guarantee of support and spare parts, environmental sensitivity and project schedule. Canary Systems California LLC, which is headquartered in Glendale, was selected to provide the services. The upgraded systems will utilize a cloud solution which will host the software for storing and post-processing the data as well as providing a dashboard for realtime data reporting and continuous monitoring. The upgraded systems will include the ability to alert staff if any instrumentation measurements exceed pre-defined thresholds.

Canary Systems will design the new and upgraded system, provide the new instrumentation and automatic data acquisition equipment, and program and commission the new system.

MWD staff will remove the obsolete system components and perform construction work including grading, excavation and installing equipment. MWD staff will also provide geotechnical support, perform related structural and electrical design, conduct overall project management and perform technical reviews.

The planned activities for Canary Systems at each site include field evaluations, workshops with MWD staff to assess the existing monitoring systems and computer database along with historical data migrations, developing design criteria along with data flow diagrams and deployment requirements, furnishing the required hardware, system programming and commissioning which will include testing, and real-time data management and dashboarding. The upgrades are expected to be completed by June 2024.

The Lake Skinner outlet tower is the primary means of drawing water from the lake for treatment at the Robert A. Skinner Water Treatment Plant or for conveyance to downstream users which include the Fallbrook Public Utility District, the Rainbow Municipal Water District and the Rancho California Water District. The outlet tower was built in 1973 and has four levels of outlet ports which allow water to enter or exit the tower from different lake elevations.

The circular free-standing outlet tower is a reinforced concrete structure 28.5 feet in diameter. It is equipped with five tiers of 42-inch diameter valves. The top four tiers contain six valves apiece and feed the Skinner plant and the San Diego pipelines. The lowest tier, called Tier Five, has two valves which are designed for dewatering the reservoir and are not intended for daily operation.

In February 2017 heavy rainfall damaged the main and emergency spillways at Oroville Dam and forced the evacuation of more than 180,000 downstream residents. The incident led to measures by the state’s Division of Safety of Dams to prevent a similar situation in the future. DSOD now requires that agencies which own and operate dams assess the condition of spillways to confirm that they meet minimum safety standards. In July 2017 DSOD issued an initial list of 93 dams which will require comprehensive spillway assessments to evaluate hydraulic capacity, geotechnical stability, structural integrity and potential erosion from dam release.

Lake Skinner was directed to have the comprehensive assessments and DSOD set a December 2018 deadline to submit the draft report. MWD submitted a work plan to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the Lake Skinner spillway and appurtenant dam structures. In December 2017 the MWD board authorized a preliminary seismic analysis of the outlet tower and conduit in conjunction with the spillway assessment. The spillway investigation confirmed the adequacy of the spillway and resulted in minor repairs of the concrete spillway. Those repairs were completed in 2018 and meet DSOD requirements. Although the tower’s original

The preliminary outlet tower seismic investigation also discovered hairline cracks on the valve actuator for the valves at the bottom of the tower. Those two valves ensure that Lake Skinner can be fully dewatered in the event of a potential dam safety issue. The actuators for the valves were repaired to ensure that the valves are operable, but replacement of the valves and actuator was recommended to ensure the long-term reliable and repeatable operation.

The scope of the procurement contract includes furnishing two 42inch diameter butterfly valves and actuators. MWD staff will receive and off-load the new valves at the Skinner site, remove the existing valves, shut down the outlet tower for the installation, install the new valves, disinfect the facility and return the tower to service.

A request for bids for the two butterfly valves was advertised Aug. 1. Three bids were received by the Oct. 29 deadline. Veteran Distribution and Supply, which is in the southwest Florida town of Ellenton, had the low bid of $484,357.80, but that bid was deemed non-responsive due to bidder exceptions. The $1,174,475.00 bid from B&K Valves and Equipment, which is in Carlsbad, complied with the requirements of the specifications and was also within the estimated budget range of $1 million to $1.25 million. Cascade Consultants LLC, of Yorba Linda, submitted a bid of $1,875,892.79.

The planned scope of work for the seismic analysis includes a detailed seismic evaluation of the tower. This includes assessment of soil conditions, soil-structure interactions, ground motion and structural analyses of the tower along with identification of feasible retrofit approaches and preliminary cost estimates, if necessary. Stantec, which is headquartered in San Diego, was selected based on the company’s experience with similar structures. The planned study activities include development of a finite-element model of the Skinner outlet tower, development of analysis criteria, a seismic analysis of the tower, development of performance acceptance criteria and development of conceptual strengthening options and costs, if necessary.

The outlet tower seismic analysis is expected to be complete by May 2024. The installation of the two valves is expected to be complete by February 2025.

Jeff Louderback

The Epoch Times

After months of hints and comments that he would seek a second term, President Joe Biden officially announced his 2024 reelection campaign in a video on April 25, four years to the day after he launched his 2020 presidential bid.

In the video posted early Tuesday, April 25, Biden, 80, said: “The question we are facing is, whether in the years ahead, we have more freedom or less freedom. More rights or fewer.

“This is not a time to be complacent … That’s why I’m running for reelection,” he said.

“We believe that everyone is equal that everyone should be given a fair shot to succeed in this country.”

In his video, while showing images of events on Jan. 6, 2021, Biden took aim at Republicans, saying, “Around the country

MAGA extremists are lining up to take on those bedrock freedoms.”

Drawing on the theme of his 2020 election, Biden said: “When I ran for president four years ago, I said we were in a battle for the soul of America. And we still are.”

“Every generation of Americans have faced a moment when they have to defend democracy.”

Challenges Ahead

Unlike four years ago, when he was a former vice president running against incumbent President Donald Trump, Biden faces challenges that were not present during his initial campaign.

Biden’s handling of the nation’s economy has been a source of concern for many Americans since late 2021 because of stubbornly high inflation and ongoing recession fears.

A legal inquiry continues into Biden’s handling of classified documents from his time as vice president that were discovered at his Wilmington, Delaware, home earlier this year, following the finding of classified materials at the Washington-based Penn-Biden Center in November 2022.

The escalating crisis at the U.S.–Mexico border, the Russia–Ukraine war, and communist China’s growing influence and its potential invasion of Taiwan are among the other challenges Biden is facing.

One of his most urgent matters is the debt ceiling standoff with the Republican-controlled House of Representatives.

On April 19, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) introduced legislation to increase the nation’s debt ceiling by $1.5 trillion or until March 31, 2024, whichever comes first, in exchange for returning discretionary spending to 2022 levels, among other cuts.

The “Limit, Save, Grow Act” of 2023 is intended to ease concerns about a possible default on U.S. obligations and encourage a more permanent resolution of the debt crisis into the election season.

Biden has refused to negotiate with House Republicans over the debt ceiling.

Government spending is expected to be a widely discussed issue in both parties’ primaries and the general election.

Inflation, which reached its post-pandemic peak in June 2022 at 9.1%, is now at 5%. Yet rising interest rates implemented by the Federal Reserve to combat inflation have increased the risk of a recession, many economists believe.

Biden has approved trillions in spending since taking office. Among the legislation that he proudly publicizes are the $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan, the $1.2 trillion Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the $745 billion Inflation Reduction Act, and a $1.7 trillion government spending bill that he signed when in St. Croix in December 2022.

Republicans have long blamed this spending for the rise in consumer prices and have said since the 117th Congress that cutting spending would be a top priority for the party if they took the House.

Wes Farno, a Republican campaign strategist in Ohio, said he believes that Biden’s messaging that “all is well” will “fall flat,” and that Republicans are wellpositioned to take back the White

House in 2024.

“It’s absurd when he stands up there and claims that the economy is doing well and inflation is under control. Go into a grocery store and tell that to anyone picking something up off the shelves.

“Ronald Reagan once asked, ‘Are you better off today than four years ago?’ Regardless of where they stand politically, very few Americans can say ‘Yes’ to that question,” Farno said.

Approval Rating Polling suggests that many Americans are displeased with Biden’s job performance, prefer former President Donald Trump in a head-to-head matchup, and have concerns about Biden’s age.

A Harvard Youth poll released on April 24 by the Harvard Kennedy School Institute of Politics showed that Biden’s approval rating among voters between the ages of 18 and 29 has dropped from 41% to 36% since last spring.

An April 20 Harvard-Harris poll indicated that, in a one-onone matchup between Biden and Trump, registered voters would vote for the former president by a 45 to 40% margin.

The survey also illustrated that 67% of voters think Biden is “too old” to be president and 56% have doubts about his mental fitness for the job.

Biden ran for president in 2020 amid the COVID-19 pandemic and delivered multiple addresses from a TV studio built in the basement of his Delaware home.

Aides say that his 2024 campaign will be more vigorous, and his 2023 schedule to date is an example.

Biden gave a speech to the Irish Parliament on April 13, and he mentioned his age while also making the case for a second run.

“I’m at the end of my career, not the beginning,” Biden said. “The only thing I bring to this career after my age—as you can see how old I am—is a little bit of wisdom.”

“I come to the job with more experience than any president in American history,” he continued. “It doesn’t make me better or worse, but it gives me few excuses.”

Other Potential Candidates Democrats who were considered potential contenders for the party’s 2024 presidential nomination— like Gov. Gavin Newsom of California and Gov. J.B. Pritzker of Illinois—have publicly expressed support for Biden. Other high-profile Democrats— including Gov. Phil Murphy of New Jersey, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan, and Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.)— have also voiced their backing of the president.

“Strength comes from unity. Even if some of these appointees decide to run against the president, at least the Democrats will come to the general election with a robust, transparent, and unified message,” David Carlucci, a former New York state senator who’s a Democratic political strategist, told The Epoch Times.

“This is how Democrats will win. On the other hand, as seen with the appointment of Speaker [Kevin] McCarthy, Republicans struggle immensely with their fringe members,” Carlucci added.

During its February winter meeting, the Democratic National Committee (DNC) unanimously passed a resolution declaring its “full and complete support” for a second term for Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris.

Earlier in April, Biden and the DNC announced that the 2024 national convention would be held in Chicago.

Top Democratic donors will reportedly meet with Biden in Washington this week.

“Running for the president the first time is aspirational. You can make all sorts of big bold promises,” Jen Psaki, Biden’s former press secretary, said on April 23 on her MSNBC show.

“Running for reelection is when you actually get your report card from the American people.”

“Part of the case President Biden will make to the public after he announces his reelection campaign is that he needs more time to do more and build on the things he has done during his first term,” Psaki added. “That’s the message: ‘Let me finish the job I started.’”

Democrat who currently

presidential race.

On March 4, self-help author and spiritual adviser Marianne Williamson began her 2024 presidential campaign at Union Station in Washington.

Last week, before an enthusiastic crowd in Boston, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. officially announced his 2024 presidential campaign.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announces his 2024 presidential bid and Democratic primary challenge to President Joe Biden in Boston on April 19, 2023. (Madalina Vasiliu/The Epoch Times) Kennedy, 69, is the son of Sen. Robert F. Kennedy and the nephew of President John F. Kennedy.

He is an attorney, the founder of advocacy group Children’s Health Defense, and a widely known medical freedom and environmental activist.

“I have known and liked Joe Biden for many years, but I disagree with him profoundly about issues like corporate influence in government, censorship, civil liberties, poverty, corruption, transparency, health policy, and war policy, among others,” Kennedy told The Epoch Times.

“I look forward to presenting my views plainly so that the people can decide what kind of America they will live in and debating these issues with President Biden.”

As Kennedy announced his presidential campaign, a USA TODAY/Suffolk University Poll discovered that he quickly generated 14% support from respondents who voted for Biden in 2020. Biden received 67% backing while Williamson was third with 5%. Another 13% were undecided.

“In 2020, Joe Biden received more votes than any other president in U.S. history, yet the poll tells us that those same voters are open to other Democrats to wage a spirited primary,” said David Paleologos, director of the Suffolk University Political Research Center. “Kennedy, although a long shot at this point, starts in double digits and can’t be ignored.”

No Democrat Debates

Jan Jekielek. “And if the DNC goes through with this—its plan to not have debate—I think that will serve as … an unfortunate confirmation to a lot of Americans that the system is indeed rigged.”

If Biden wins the Democratic primary, and Trump prevails in the Republican primary, history will be made in the general election. There has never been a rematch between the same two candidates in back-to-back American presidential elections.

NBC News released a poll on April 23 that indicated 70% of respondents didn’t want Biden to seek another term and 60% said that they don’t want Trump to run. Trump has consistently held a significant advantage over the second most popular candidate, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, in the polls. DeSantis has yet to announce if he is running for president.

On April 24, the DNC decided to forego primary debates. This drew criticism from Kennedy, who said it confirms that the nation’s elections are “rigged.”

“Americans think the entire system is rigged against them,” Kennedy told The Epoch Times’

Biden can defeat Trump, Rep. David Cicilline (D-R.I.) believes. “People recognized he was the one candidate who could defeat Donald Trump and protect American democracy,” Cicilline said about Biden. “It’s still the case.” Do

Please consider supporting your local independent Valley News for just $1 a week.

It’s a smart investment. Our editorial staff alone puts in 400 to 500 hours a week reporting on what is happening. For exclusive content and early access, sign up at myvalleynews.com/subscribe or call 951-763-5510.

Please don’t wait, this is important and timely, we need our community to stand with us while we report truthfully the news of our day.

President Biden officially announces 2024 campaign Biden says the question is “whether in the years ahead, we have more freedom or less freedom”

President Joe Biden speaks during a ceremony honoring the Council of Chief State School Officers' 2023 Teachers of the Year in the Rose Garden of the White House, Monday, April 24, 2023 in Washington. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)

Former President Donald Trump speaks at the Lee County Republican dinner in Fort Myers, Fla., Friday, April 21, 2023. (AP Photo/Chris Tilley) holds an office has entered the 2024

We must address the fentanyl crisis now

In 2022, 28,765 pounds of fentanyl were seized in California, enough to kill the entire population of North America – twice. A fatal dose can be as little as two milligrams.

Fentanyl poisoning is the leading cause of death for young adults in the US, surpassing suicides and car accidents. More must be done to deter the sale and trafficking of this deadly drug.

My colleagues and I have introduced several bills that would help address this dire situation. Sadly, the following bills have all failed to pass through the Public Safety committee, only delaying the state’s response to the problem we are facing.

Senate Bill 44, written by Sen. Tom Umberg, also known

as Alexandra’s law, and its companion bill, Assembly Bill 18, written by Assemblymember Joe Patterson, in the Assembly, would have required a statement to be read to individuals convicted of drug offenses to deter from further crimes.

Senate Bill 62, written by Sen. Janet Nguyen, would have added fentanyl to the list of controlled substances – currently heroin, cocaine base and cocaine – which are eligible for an additional prison term such as a sentence enhancement, ranging from three to 25 years, based on the volume of the controlled substance.

Senate Bill 237, written by Sen. Shannon Grove, would have increased criminal penalties for the

AB 742: Proposed state bill to ban the use of police canines

Dear Sheriff Bianco, I’ve been quite repelled by the asinine Assembly bill to ban the use of police canines by California police agencies for the arrest and apprehension of criminal suspects and for crowd control. I am certain that you find this bill quite disturbing as well.

If this utterly stupid and shortsighted Assembly Bill 742 is indeed passed, then I suggest that as sheriff you merely trump this bill and raise the political ante by reaching for a new law enforcement tool. I would hope that you would seriously consider procuring and deploying robotic dogs as possible replacements

for any retired sheriff’s canines that may occur due to a possible passage of AB 742. The NYPD recently reacquired a robotic dog as yet another tool to their law enforcement tool kit.

The naive and low information Assemblymember who introduced this regressive public endangerment bill quite effectively exemplifies Abraham Maslow’s famous quote about cognitive bias: “If the only tool you have is a hammer, it is tempting to treat everything as if it were a nail.”

Assemblymember Corey Jackson, the author of AB 742, seems to have a dull and rusty hammer for a brain and sees

everything as a bunch of nails. Perhaps it would be fun and exciting if the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department performed a public demonstration of these robotic dogs outside the assembly member’s 60th District office.

Lastly, most everyone recognizes that the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department canines both serve and have sacrificed to the benefit of all residents of Riverside County. Thank you for your time and attention, and thank you for your service and the service of your sheriff’s department to our county.

Rick Reiss Temecula resident

STUDENTS from page C-4

a Seal of Biliteracy from the California Department of Education and a Multiliteracy Seal from the Riverside County Office of Education.

Romero said, “Eisha Singh has also participated in our awardwinning AVID program all four years.”

Singh has completed three college courses while concurrently enrolled at Mt. San Jacinto College and has many extracurricular activities that keep her busy. She is founder and president of the Future of Success Club, president of the Medic World club that her older sister founded and serves as president of AVID Club, Asian Student Union, Spanish Honor Society and Black Student Union. She is a member of the National Honor Society and has been on the girls’ volleyball team the past two years.

“Being involved in these clubs made me realize how much experience one can gain by being involved in the community. By starting a club, I gained a leadership skill that I can take into college,” Singh said. “I look forward to making an impact on others at college, just like I did here at Lakeside.”

Singh plans to attend University of California Irvine, majoring in psychology and entering medical school with the goal of pursuing a career in anesthesiology.

Ortega High School

Matthew Collaso Brown was recognized in March for making the most of this time at the alternative high school. Counselor Victor Bond introduced him with

sale, transport and importation of fentanyl.

Senate Bill 325, written by Grove, would have imposed an enhancement on sentences for drug sale and transport related offenses involving fentanyl that is designed or packaged in such a way as to resemble food or candy.

It’s clear that legislative leadership needs to adjust its priorities.

We need to pass legislation that holds drug dealers accountable, increases criminal penalties and gives local law enforcement and agencies the tools they need to keep communities safe. Fortunately, one of my bills is still making its way through the legislative process.

Senate Bill 19, which I wrote, would establish the California Anti-Fentanyl Abuse Task Force to increase public education and mobilize state and local resources to evaluate the best practices for combating fentanyl.

We cannot let politics ruin our chance of fixing this important issue. We must come together and do whatever it takes to control this dangerous epidemic that has only grown in past years.

As your representative, I will not remain silent on this critical concern for our community, and my colleagues and I will continue the fight to work to keep our communities safe.

RE: Opinion: Newsom continues to cut press access while lecturing Red States on ‘Campaign for Democracy,’ April 14, 2023

Once again Julie, you prove yourself and your fine newspaper to be a beacon of fair and balanced journalism, which by the way, is not followed by all of your contemporaries. Though your Op-Ed piece may be focused in one direction, we can rest assured that the balance is achieved by the bounty of extant journalism which widely swings the other way. I am speaking of how the majority of the media would never dare to criticize a Democrat governor regardless of his or her faults. How dare any politician lecture any

a statement written by principal Greg Cleave, who could not attend the event. Collaso Brown arrived at Ortega at the start of his junior year with zero credits due to a number of mental health setbacks.

“We assured his mom that we would get Matthew back on track and that he would be supported here,” Cleave said in his statement.

Collaso Brown said he would not have been able to restore his credits without the help of his teacher, Dana Dunfee.

“The first two years of high school, I was struggling with depression and anxiety and on top of that it was during the pandemic,” Collaso Brown said.

He admitted he had zero motivation to log onto classes.

Dunfee described his arrival on campus by saying, “What I read in his academic file did not match up with who was standing in front of me on his first day of class. He had a history of anxiety and living with Tourette’s syndrome but in front of me was an outgoing, funny, slightly nervous but overall wellrounded individual.”

Collaso Brown has participated in leadership, yearbook, Safe Space and is general manager of the student store, all while earning honor roll or high honor roll each academic quarter.

Temescal Canyon High School

Grace Carney was introduced by Temescal Canyon High principal Joshua Hill as ASB vice president, captain of the championship varsity girls’ soccer team and a youth group volunteer. She is determined and outgoing and possesses a leadership she carries onto the field. Carney was named Athlete of the Season in her junior

other on how they should address the issues of the day. Make your point if you will Newson, but to lecture your contemporaries as if you are some sort of professor on all subjects public, demonstrates the hubris and ill-placed conceit on your part. I hope the Demos do put you up in 2024. The material available to your Republican adversary will be abundant and a pleasure to watch demonstrated.

residents

and senior years and was named Defensive MVP for the Sunbelt League.

“A lesson I learned is to make the most of every moment,” Carney said. “I know everyone has found roadblocks and for me it’s not about the type of roadblock that you face but rather the way you deal with it. Whether you turn around and try to suppress the issue or deal with it head on to solve the issue then and there. I strive to make the most of every moment.”

She has been accepted to multiple universities but has not made a final decision. Carney plans to continue playing soccer at college while studying kinesiology to have a career as a physical therapist.

Cesar Ruiz has made an impact at the school by being a member of the Titan Engineering Academy who wrestles, plays football and is on the track team.

Hill said Ruiz feels “that physical health impacts mental health and that if you take care of your body, you take care of your mind.”

Ruiz said his parents raised him to be nothing but kind to others.

“A big lesson I’ll take with me through life is to not care what others think about you and not live in fear,” he said. “Fear is usually the number one reason people don’t accomplish their goals.”

He plans to attend Utah Tech University on a scholarship to work on a degree in mechanical engineering while hopefully playing football.

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

Michael F. & Barbara C. Sullivan Murrieta

Kelly Seyarto Senator, California 32nd District The

ACIL Earth Day cleanup readies Minor Park for spring festivities

photo

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

The Anza Civic Improvement League participated in Earth Day and park cleanup day Saturday,

April 22. Volunteers flocked to the park to mow, weed whack, pick up and bag trash, and make dump runs, while children took part in crafts and games. Garden beds were reworked, fertilizer

added and seeds and young plants placed in the warming soil. A seed exchange connected gardeners with different plants to focus on this growing season. Hot dogs, chips and beverages

Owl poisonings on the increase in Anza

were provided for those attending.

“Eighty bags of trash and debris went to the dump,” ACIL director Tabitha Dawes said. “Gerilyn took another 25 bags of grass clippings for her sheep. We planted

strawberry plants in planters that were donated and mint and sage in the garden. There were about 40 people that helped out. Community

see PARK, page D-4

Music, fun and food headline at KOYT’s Koyote

Karaoke

Owlets are discovered dead in Anza and rodenticide poisoning is suspected.

Staff Writer

There has been a dramatic increase in the discovery of dead owls and their young in the Anza Valley in recent weeks and residents believe rodenticide poisoning is to blame.

Throughout California, poison bait used to kill rodents has inadvertently hurt, killed or maimed countless pets, wild animals and birds of prey.

Biologists warn that if the predators that feed on squirrels, rats, mice and gophers, such as owls, hawks, raccoons, bobcats,

Anza Valley Outlook/Courtesy photo

mountain lions, foxes, skunks and coyotes consume dead or dying poisoned rodents that have eaten these baits, they will also be poisoned. Dogs and cats may also eat these dead or dying small mammals and even bait that is within their reach, with often fatal results.

The anticoagulant chemicals used in rodenticide products can be transferred to an animal eating the dead or dying pest. Predators and scavengers such as owls are exposed when they eat rodents that have been poisoned with these baits.

see OWLS, page D-3

Writer

Anza’s KOYT 97.1 Community Radio presented a Koyote Karaoke and dinner fundraiser at the Anza Community Hall Saturday, April 22. Patrons enjoyed excellent food, beverages and desserts, all the while listening to and taking part in a nonstop karaoke experience encouraged by music programmer Kathy Blair. KOYT staff, board members and volunteers decorated, served and cleaned up after the successful event.

“Thank you to everyone who came out for Koyote Karaoke at the Anza Community

Hall,” KOYT president and programming chair Erinne Roscoe said. “A huge thanks to all of the volunteers, from decorating to barbecuing, you guys rocked it today. It takes a lot to put on an event like this and you all did a great job today. Thanks, Kathy, for letting us sing our hearts out, and great job to all the singers who serenaded us tonight.”

Guests took turns singing their favorite rock, blues and country hits to peals of encouraging applause and cheers.

“Karaoke at the Community Hall in

see KOYT, page D-4

Diane Sieker Staff

Diane Sieker

Debbie Szabo and Jerry Eggering enjoy the evening at KOYT’s Koyote Karaoke and dinner at the Anza Community Hall Saturday, April 22.

Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo

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.

Friends of Anza Valley Community Library – Anza Valley Community Library is located at Hamilton High School, 57430 Mitchell Road. The library is open to the public, but not during school hours. Hours are

4-7 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, and 12-4 p.m. on Sunday. Closed Monday through Wednesday.

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

Hamilton Museum – 10 a.m.

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

Backcountry Horsemen Redshank Riders – Meeting monthly on the second Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. Locations change, so please contact Mike by email at stumblinl55@gmail. com or by calling (951) 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 post-traumatic stress disorder and other difficulties. Call John Sheehan at 951-923-6153. If you need an advocate to help with VA benefits, call Ronnie Imel at 951-659-9884.

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

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

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

Bereaved Parents of the USA

– The Aguanga-Anza Chapter of BPUSA will hold its meetings at 6 p.m. on the first and third Wednesday of each month at 49109 Lakeshore Blvd. in Aguanga. For more information, contact chapter leader Linda Hardee at 951-551-2826.

Free Mobile Health Clinic

– Open every third Wednesday

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

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

Food ministries

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

Living Hope Christian Fellowship Community Dinner

1 p.m. Dinners are held the last Sunday of the month at the Anza Community Hall. All are welcome. Donations of time, money, etc. are always welcome. Food for the Faithful – 8 a.m. The food bank hands out food the last Friday of the month until the food is gone. The clothes closet will be open too. Emergency food handed out as needed at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. FFF is a non-denominational nonprofit. All in need are welcome; call Esther Barragan at 951-763-5636.

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 951928-1248. Find helpful art tips at http://www.facebook.com/ AnzaValleyArtists/

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

Anza Valley Lions Club – The Anza Valley Lions Club has been reinstated and is open to all men and women who want to work together for the betterment of the

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

Boy Scouts Troop 319 – Cub Scouts meet 6 p.m. every Tuesday, and Boy Scouts meet 7 p.m. every Wednesday at The Church of Jesus Christ of 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 909-7027902.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sacred Heart Catholic Church hosts live Easter Passion play

An actor, as Jesus, is forced to carry his cross in the live Passion play hosted by Anza’s Sacred Heart Catholic Church Saturday, April 8.

Jesus is depicted hanging on the cross, forgiving his tormentors in the live Passion play Saturday, April 8.

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

Anza’s Sacred Heart Catholic Church hosted an experienced

Rodents are important food sources for many local predators, especially owls. According to biologists, one barn owl family may consume 1,300 mice and rats in a year.

“Please, if you are using poisons to control rodents, stop. You may have contributed to killing these beautiful birds,” Anza resident Dave Dolan, who saw several owlets raised in his owl boxes succumb to poisoning in 2020, said.

The use of non-chemical rodent controls, such as exclusion, trapping, encouraging natural predators and sanitation, are safer choices.

The consumption of poisoned rodents is suspected in the sudden owl deaths being reported on social media in Anza and Aguanga. Local raptor expert Dominique Routan took to social media to vent her frustration and try to create awareness for local residents.

“I am angry and tired of seeing these senseless killings,” she said. “Humans can have a devastating effect on wildlife. Two beautiful Great Horned owlets, just weeks away from fledging, were killed by consuming the rodents that their parents brought to the nest. Some humans opted to use rodenticides to get rid of rats and mice with no regard to the consequences. They died an agonizing slow death while bleeding out internally before ever leaving the nest.”

The California Department of Pesticide Regulation has restricted public access to rodenticide

band of role players that performed a live Easter Passion play for the church’s parishioners, visitors and friends Saturday, April 8. Conducted entirely in Spanish,

products containing the active ingredients brodifacoum, bromadiolone, difethialone and difenacoum. These poisons may only be used by licensed professional exterminators for use in and around man-made structures. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has also implemented a nationwide ban on consumer use of some rodenticide products.

According to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, they have also seen an increase in the number of strychninerelated wildlife losses in recent years. Strychnine is only legally used to control pocket gophers and must be placed underground in gopher burrows. Any aboveground use of this chemical may lead to unintentional poisoning of wildlife and pets, and may lead to enforcement action by CDFW, the County Agricultural Commissioner, or both.

According to the Center for Biological Diversity, California Assemblymember Laura Friedman (D-Burbank) is spearheading a bill to expand restrictions on toxic rat poisons and increase protections for children, pets and wildlife from unintentional poisoning.The California Ecosystems Protection Act of 2023, or Assembly Bill 1322, would extend an existing moratorium on second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides to include a deadly first-generation anticoagulant rodenticide. The proposed legislation creates safeguards from the most toxic rat poisons until state regulators develop stronger restrictions for

the performance reenacted the crucifixion of Jesus Christ followed the Bible scriptures during the emotional performance. The talented troupe of actors were from Saint Elizabeth of Hungary Church in Desert Hot Springs.

Father Kien opened the play with words and a short prayer. The actors then began their performance and held the audience’s hearts in their hands for the duration of the almost hour-long show.

their use.

“Despite our hard work passing legislation to curb rodenticide use, California’s most iconic wildlife like mountain lions and eagles are still needlessly poisoned. We must do more,” Friedman said. “This common-sense bill will expand restrictions on some of the most dangerous rat poisons so we can better protect wildlife and families.”

Meanwhile, residents can abstain from using any poisons as a rodent control option.

“There should also be some awareness before people put owl boxes up on their property. Something like checking with their closest neighbors and asking if they use rodent bait. If the answer is yes, they shouldn’t put up an owl nesting box. Of course, it won’t stop the deaths, but it may reduce the amount of nests getting poisoned,” Routan said.

Poisonings reverberate down the food chain, with unintended results, she added.

“Once the owl dies, the coyote, bobcat, vulture or your own pet consumes that carcass and they then also get poisoned and die,” Routan explained. “Once you’ve eliminated the predators that keep the number of rodents down, the pests’ population explodes.”

While welcoming the owls’ natural pest control abilities, we must also protect their food source from harm. Their owlets are depending on all of us for their very survival.

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

A Passion play is a dramatic presentation depicting the Passion of Jesus Christ, including his trial, suffering and death. These plays originated in Europe during the Middle Ages to teach people about Christianity. They were usually performed in Latin by monks, but eventually church members started taking over the roles and speaking in the native language.

The Saint Elizabeth of Hungary Church actors were outstanding

Dirt bike rider rescued in

City News Service

Special to the Anza Valley Outlook

Firefighters from the Riverside County Fire Department rescued a dirt bike rider in Anza Saturday, April 22.

The report of a fallen dirt bike rider with a possible broken leg was made around 2:35 p.m. near Thomas Mountain Road.

A Riverside County Sheriff’s Department helicopter also responded and together, they loaded the patient into the helicopter.

The unidentified rider was flown to an awaiting ground ambulance and taken to a hospital in unknown condition.

in their performances, with the audience showing great emotion of the moments they portrayed. For more information about the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, www.facebook. com/Sacred-Heart-ofAnza-172200349497797.

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

Anza Valley Outlook/Tara Butchart photos

Roman soldiers beat the character of Jesus in the live Passion play hosted by Anza’s Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

The Saint Elizabeth of Hungary Church actors take a moment for a group photo with Father Kien at the live Passion play hosted by Anza’s Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

OWLS from page D-1

Anza tonight was a blast,” Jerry Eggering said. “There were custom cheeseburgers and hot dogs that you could build your own way, and my burger was delicious. It’s one of the best burgers I’ve had in a long time. The karaoke hostess was great. I have a pretty big list of cover songs by other bands, and she had them all. Debbie and I were able to sing many of our favorite songs tonight. If you weren’t there, then you missed out.”

Another Koyote Karaoke is being planned for next month.

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 the radio station, 951-763-5698, info@ koyt971.org, www.facebook.com/ koyt97.1 or https://koyt971.org.

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

PARK from page D-1

turnout was great, and now the park is ready for spring.”

A handmade quilt donated by the Anza Quilters Club was displayed during the event. The beautiful quilt will be auctioned off at the Anza Days festivities in the park this July, with funds donated to ACIL to help toward funding repairs to the foundation of the Little Red Schoolhouse.

To learn more about upcoming ACIL events, visit them at www.facebook.com/ AnzaCivicImprovementLeague , www.anzacivic.org, write PO Box 391000, Anza, CA 92539, call 951330-4411 or email anzacivic@ gmail.com

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

Seeds are planted as an activity for children at the ACIL Earth Day and grounds clean up at Minor Park Saturday, April 22. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photos

A quilt donated by members of the Anza Quilters Club to be auctioned off during Anza Days to benefit the park is on display at the ACIL Earth Day and grounds clean up.

Children make peanut butter and seed pine cones to feed wild songbirds at Minor Park.

Gardens are reworked and planted during the ACIL Earth Day and grounds clean up Saturday, April 22.

Volunteers Pebbles Bartlett-Lewis, left, Robyn Garrison and Barbara Ann Keller serve up salads, burgers, hot dogs, cake and more at KOYT’s Koyote Karaoke and dinner. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photos

Christina Carlin takes to the stage at KOYT’s Koyote Karaoke and dinner Saturday, April 22.

Allison Rencke, left, and Annika Knöppel greet guests at KOYT’s Koyote Karaoke and dinner at the Anza Community Hall.

Tim Jahelka belts out Joy to the World by Three Dog Night at KOYT’s Koyote Karaoke and dinner at the Anza Community Hall.

Sharon Evans sings Don’t Stop Believin’ by Journey at the Anza Community Hall Saturday, April 22.

Jerry Eggering performs rock and roll favorites at the Anza Community Hall Saturday, April 22.

Kathy Blair runs the music program at KOYT’s Koyote Karaoke and dinner April 22.

Holocaust survivor speaks to youth at Murrieta March of Remembrance

Tony Ault Staff Writer

“Out of despair comes hope,” was the message relayed by dozens of Jewish and Christian families at the March of Remembrance Sunday, April 16, along the streets of Murrieta. The hope of the Jewish community was that young people would learn never to repeat the horrible atrocities of Nazi Germany in World War II that took the lives of over 6 million Jews and others.

The 10th annual March of Remembrance was sponsored by the Holocaust Remembrance Foundation of the Valley, and it brought one of the few still living survivors of the Holocaust, Yetta Kane, along with Amit Mekel, deputy chief of mission of the Consulate General of Israel to Pacific Southwest, and rabbis from local Jewish congregations to Murrieta Mesa High School, the starting point of the march.

Clark Van Wick of Calvary

Chapel Bible Fellowship and Randy Denham of Calvary

Chapel French Valley are both local pastors and strong supporters of the annual March of Remembrance. The two pastors were on hand to greet guests and families.

“Today we remember the victims of the Holocaust,”

Murrieta Mayor Lisa DeForest said at the event. “I am moved by the countless stories of resilience and courage from victims who formed a friendship with others in concentration camps and to the individuals who bravely risked their lives to share their homes and shelter for people in hiding.”

Kane shared her story of how she survived the Holocaust, which began when she was 8 years old and living in Poland. When the Nazis invaded Poland, they began rounding up all the Jewish people and many others of different races and nationalities and sending them off to concentration camps, gas chambers or to be shot to

You are not an accident

me carrying a tray of marinated chicken.

In her effort to carry the chicken and walk with some sort of elegance, she accidentally snagged her heel on the curb. One moment she was standing, and the next, she was lying on the ground face first in the chicken. That’s when she looked at me, with chicken juice dripping from her face, and said, “Don’t I look beautiful?” and she blew me a kiss.

Accidents are never beautiful because they are almost always associated with harm, injury or loss. They are the “whoops-adaisy” of the world.

death. Kane and her parents fled to a nearby forest in freezing temperatures to escape the Nazi wrath with no home or belongings. Soon after that, she witnessed people shot in front of her by the Nazis.

“The pain was so great,” she said. “We had nobody to help us.”

Neighbors who tried to help them were shot. In their flight, she said her grandmother was caught and shot.

Her uncle who was in the underground helped her to escape, and she ended up in Siberia in Russia. There she recalled they had nothing but a mere shelter with a little horse as a roommate that they finally had to eat to stay alive.

“I survived because God was with me,” she said. “God is with me every day. I am not afraid: through the pain, the agony and abuse.”

She continued, telling a story about a friend who the Nazis conducted experiments on and

tried to replace her breasts with those of a monkey. She said there are no words in a book that could capture the horrors of the torture placed by the Nazis on the Jewish captives in the camps, both young and old.

She shared advice to students who come to speak with her.

“Be kind. Be compassionate and remember all the teachings,” she said.

She reminded students that everyone is created in God’s image no matter their race, color or creed.

Mekel said it was humbling to be in the presence of Holocaust survivors and their families.

“We will not be silent about the Jewish people doing the harvest,” he said. “We come together to ‘Never Forget.’”

He urged the Jewish people to show their solidarity with the Jewish people in Israel and America.

The March of Remembrance divided into two groups with one

group walking down Monroe Avenue, before returning to hear the history of the Holocaust from docent Shirley Bragss, while the second group heard the history first, followed by the march. Marchers also witnessed a memorial menorah candle lighting performed with Kane, the families of other Holocaust survivors and rabbis. Rabbi Susan Singer recited the Kaddish, a hymn praising God that is recited during Jewish prayer services, and with all participants joining, placed a stone on an altar of remembrance for all Holocaust survivors. Rabbi Steve Epstein gave El Malei Rachamim, a Jewish prayer for the departed.

At the end of the march and presentation, guests were encouraged to give donations toward the Holocaust Educational Memorial which will be constructed in Murrieta’s Town Square Park soon.

“Have you ever read an autobiography of a survivor and not wept? Or watched a Holocaust documentary and not reeled with horror and grief? Or listened to a Holocaust survivor’s testimony and not been overwhelmed by the depth of their trauma and suffering as they shared their story? Like you, I haven’t,” the late Pastor Jack Flournoy, founder of the HRFV, wrote on the group’s website. “Even after years of being involved with Holocaust Remembrance Day events, I still can’t read a Holocaust history book for more than 30 minutes at a time. “Unfortunately, many of our younger generations don’t share the same awareness of the Holocaust. And this means they can’t share the same depth of empathy or are committed to not letting anything like the Holocaust ever happen again,” he once said.

To help partner with the Holocaust Educational Memorial, send mail to Holocaust Remembrance Foundation of the Valley, 23905 Clinton Keith Road, Suite 114-263, Wildomar, CA 92595. Online donations can be made at http://www.HRFV.org

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

have even been told that you are your entire life. But, regardless of what you feel and what others say, God said you are not.

Here’s what God has to say about you.

God said you are made in his image.

The Bible said, “God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them,” in Genesis 1:27.

God said you are the work of his hand.

The Bible said, “We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand,” in Isaiah 64:8.

for making me so wonderfully complex. Your workmanship is marvelous – how well I know it.

You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb,” in Isaiah 139:13-15.

God said he is the one who gives you life.

The Bible said, “The Spirit of God has made me; the breath of the Almighty gives me life,” in Job 33:4.

God said you are his masterpiece.

of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed. How precious are your thoughts about me, O God. They cannot be numbered. I can’t even count them; they outnumber the grains of sand! And when I wake up, you are still with me,” in Psalm 139:16-18.

None of those sound like accidents, do they?

It all comes down to this thought: God made you; he loves you and he has a plan for your life. Now, you just need to believe it.

An accident is an unfortunate incident that happens unintentionally. Like when I was standing outside a wedding and a well-dressed lady walked past

You are not an accident. God didn’t happen to bump his almighty elbow on the counter of his lab and spill you out into the universe.

You might feel like an accident, a mishap or a mistake. You might

God said he formed you in your mother’s womb.

The Bible said, “You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. Thank you

The Bible said you “are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago,” in Ephesians 2:10.

God said he thinks about you constantly.

The Bible said, “You saw me before I was born. Every day

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

Zachary Elliott Special to the Valley News

The first group of participants during the March of Remembrance’s 10th anniversary marches down Monroe Avenue in Murrieta in memory of the Holocaust survivors and the 6 million Jews who died in World War II at the hands of the Nazi regime in Europe.

Members of the SojournerSong band and dancers from Kehilat Ariel Messianic Synagogue in San Diego perform Israeli worship songs in English and Hebrew at the March of Remembrance event in Murrieta.

Valley News/Tony Ault photos

This sign reminds those participating in the March of Remembrance how anti-Semitic incidents are growing in America in the last 10 years.

Holocaust survivor Yetta Kane tells of her horrific experiences as a child caught up in the terror and suffering she and her fellow Jews endured from the Nazi Party in Germany during World War II.

You

You have 30 calendar days after this Summons and Petition are served on you to file a Response (form FL-120) at the court and have a copy served on the petitioner. A letter, phone call or court appearance will not protect you.

If you do not file your Response on time, the court may make orders affecting your marriage or domestic partnership, your property, and custody of your children. You may be ordered to pay support and attorney fees and costs.

For legal advice, contact a lawyer immediately. Get help finding a lawyer at the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www.courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp), at the California Legal Services website (www.lawhelpca.org), or by contacting your local county bar association.

NOTICE-RESTRAINING ORDERS

ARE BELOW: These restraining orders are effective against both spouses or domestic partners until the petition is dismissed, a judgement is entered, or the court makes further orders. They are enforceable anywhere in California by any law enforcement officer who has received or seen a copy of them.

FEE WAIVER: If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the clerk for a fee waiver form. The court may order you to pay back all or part of the fees and costs that the court waived for you or the other party.

The name and address of the court:

Riverside Family Law Courthouse

4175 Main Street

Riverside, CA 92501

The name, address and telephone number of plaintiff’s attorney, or plaintiff without an attorney is:

Swati Desi 213825 / Angel Camino

296054

Desai Camino APC

4887 E. La Palma Ave., Suite 708 Anaheim CA 92807

714-637-1712

Date: 7/9/2021

Clerk, by: T. Tucker, Deputy

STANDARD FAMILY LAW

RESTRAINING ORDERS

Starting immediately, you and your spouse or domestic partner are restrained from:

1. removing the minor children of the parties from the state or applying for a new or replacement passport for those minor children without the prior written consent of the other party or an order of the court;

2. cashing, borrowing against, canceling, transferring, disposing of, or changing the beneficiaries of any insurance or other coverage, including life, health, automobile, and disability, held for the benefit of the parties and their minor children;

3. transferring, encumbering, hypothecating, concealing, or in any way disposing of any property, real or personal, whether community, quasicommunity, or separate, without the written consent of the other party or an order of the court, except in the usual course of business or for the necessities of life; and

4. creating a nonprobate transfer or modifying a nonprobate transfer in a manner that affects the disposition of property subject to the transfer, without the written consent of the other party or an order of the court. Before revocation of a nonprobate transfer can take effect or a right of survivorship to property can be eliminated, notice of the change must be filed and served on the other party.

You must notify each other of any proposed extraordinary expenditures at least five business days prior to incurring these extraordinary expenditures and account to the court for all extraordinary expenditures made after these restraining orders are effective. However, you may use community property, quasi-community, or your own separate property to pay an attorney to help you or to pay court costs.

NOTICE—ACCESS TO AFFORDABLE

HEALTH INSURANCE: Do you or someone in your household need affordable health insurance? If so, you

should apply for Covered California.

Covered California can help reduce the cost you pay towards high quality affordable health care. For more information, visit www.coveredca.com.

Or call Covered California at 1-800300-1506.

WARNING—IMPORTANT

INFORMATION

California law provides that, for purposes of division of property upon dissolution of a marriage or domestic partnership or upon legal separation, property acquired by the parties during marriage or domestic partnership in joint form is presumed to be community property. If either party to this action should die before the jointly held community property is divided, the language in the deed that characterized how title is held (i.e. joint tenancy, tenants in common, or community property) will be controlling, and not the community property presumption. You should consult your attorney, if you want the community property presumption to be written into the recorded title to the property.

PETITION FOR DISSOLUTION

Case Number: FLRI2104690

PETITIONER: Tamur Mastafa

RESPONDENT: Hina Fayyaz Khan

1. LEGAL RELATIONSHIP:

a. We are married.

2. RESIDENCE REQUIREMENTS:

a. Petitioner has been a resident of this state for at least six months and of this county for at least three months immediately preceding the filing of this Petition.

3. STATISTICAL FACTS (1) Date of marriage: 3/11/2009

(2) Date of separation: 2017

(3) Time from date of marriage to date of separation: 8 years

4. MINOR CHILDREN

The minor children are:

b. Child’s name: Mehak Khan

Birthdate: 7/1/2013

Age: 7 Petitioner requests that the court make the following orders:

5. LEGAL GROUNDS

a. Divorce of the marriage or domestic partnership based on irreconcilable differences.

6. CHILD CUSTODY AND VISITATION (PARENTING TIME)

a. Legal custody of children to Joint

b. Physical custody of child to Joint

c. Child visitation(parenting time) to be granted to Petitioner, Respondent As requested in Attachment 6c(1)

7. CHILD SUPPORT

a. If there are minor children born to or adopted by Petitioner and Respondent before or during this marriage or domestic partnership, the court will make orders for the support of the children upon request and submission of financial forms by the requesting party.

b. An earnings assignment may be issued without further notice.

c. Any party required to pay support must pay interest on overdue amounts at the “legal” rate, which is currently 10 percent.

8. SPOUSAL OR DOMESTIC PARTNER SUPPORT

a. Spousal or domestic partner support payable to Petitioner

b. Terminate (end) the court’s ability to award support to Respondent

9. SEPARATE PROPERTY

b. Confirm as separate property the assets and debts in Attachment 9b

10. COMMUNITY AND QUASICOMMUNITY PROPERTY

b. Determine rights to community and quasi-community assets and debts. All such assets and debts are listed in Attachment 10b.

11. OTHER REQUESTS

a. Attorney’s fees and costs payable by Respondent

12. I HAVE READ THE RESTRAINING ORDERS AND I UNDERSTAND THAT THEY APPLY TO ME WHEN THIS PETITION IS FILED.

I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing is true and correct.

Date July 9, 2021 Tamur Mastafa

Date July 9, 2021 Swati Desai

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Read

Legal Steps for a Divorce or Legal Separation (form FL-107-INFO)

and visit “Families Change” at www. familieschange.ca.gov – an online guide for parents and children going through divorce or separation.

NOTICE: You may redact (black out) social security numbers from any written material filed with the court in this case other than a form used to collect child, spousal or partner support.

NOTICE–CANCELLATION OF RIGHTS: Dissolution or legal separation may automatically cancel the rights of a domestic partner or spouse under the other domestic partner’s or spouse’s will, trust, retirement plan, power of attorney, pay-on-death bank account, survivorship rights to any property owned in joint tenancy, and any other similar thing. It does not automatically cancel the right of a domestic partner or spouse as beneficiary of the other partner’s or spouse’s life insurance policy. You should review these matters, as well as any credit cards, other credit accounts, insurance policies, retirement plans, and credit reports, to determine whether they should be changed or whether you should take any other actions. Some changes may require the agreement of your partner or spouse or a court order.

Attachment 9b to Petition

SEPARATE PROPERTY ASSETS AND OBLIGATIONS

ITEM:

1. All items acquired by gift, bequest, devise, or inheritance.

CONFIRM TO: PETITIONER

2. All item acquired prior to marriage and after date of separation.

CONFIRM TO: PETITIONER

3. PETITIONER respectfully requests that HE be granted leave to amend HIS PETITION to set forth the exact nature and extent of said additional separate property and debts when the same has been ascertained.

CONFIRM TO: PETITIONER

Attachment 10b to Petition

COMMUNITY PROPERTY ASSETS AND OBLIGATIONS

ITEM:

1. One half interest in the community savings accounts of the parties

2. One half interest in the community checking accounts of the parties

3. One half interest in the community the pension/profit sharing or retirement plans of the parties.

4. Any and all community debts and obligations in joint names and/or individual names.

5. PETITIONER is informed and believes and based on said information and belief alleges there is additional real and personal community and/or quasi-community property assets and debts of the parties the exact nature and extent of which is unknown to HIM at the present time PETITIONER respectfully requests that HE be granted leave to amend HIS PETITION to set forth the exact nature and extent of said additional community and quasicommunity property assets and debts when the same has been ascertained.

AMENDED DECLARATION UNDER UNIFORM CHILD CUSTODY JURISDICTION AND ENFORCEMENT ACT (UCCJEA) Case

Tamur Mastafa

Hina Fayyaz Khan

1. I am a party to this proceeding to determine custody of a child.

3. There are One (1) minor children who are subject to this proceeding, as

NOTICE OF DECLARANT: You have a continuing duty to inform this court if you obtain any information about a custody proceeding in California court or any other court concerning a child subject to this proceeding.

NOTICE OF DEPARTMENT ASSIGNMENT

Case Number: FLRI2104690

Case Name: MASTAFA & KHAN

The above entitled case is assigned to Department F402, currently assigned to Commissioner Wendy Harris for all purposes.

This case has been assigned to the Commissioner, sitting as Judge Pro Tempore, whose appointment as Commissioner is in accordance with Article Six, Section Twenty-two of the Constitution of this state, and who has been appointed as a Temporary Judge pursuant to an order of the court under the authority of Article Six, Section Twenty-one of the Constitution and Section 259 of the Code of Civil Procedure of this State.

Within ten (10) days of the date of any party’s first appearance, that party must file a Non-stipulation if he or she does not stipulate to the hearing of pretrial, and all subsequent post-trial law and motion matters by the assigned commissioner. Failure to file such notice within ten (10) days of the party’s first appearance shall be deemed an acceptance of the assignment.

It shall be the policy of this Court that if either party files a Notice of Nonstipulation to the assigned Family Law Court Commissioner to serve as Judge Pro Tempore for any proceeding, all preliminary matters will be heard by the Commissioner pursuant to Code of Civil Procedure section 259€, with findings and conclusions to be reported to the designated Family Law Judge for approval.

Any disqualification pursuant to C.C.P. Section 170.6, subdivision (2), shall be filed in accordance with that section.

Petitioner (or moving party) is hereby noticed at this time and is required to serve all other parties with notice forthwith.

The court encourages parties to resolve their case through informal dispute resolution instead of court hearings and trial. One option is private mediation with an experienced family law attorney. For information, visit the court’s website at www.riverside.courts.ca.gov/adr/ famlaw_privatemediation.shtml.

Interpreter services are available upon request. If you need an interpreter, please complete and submit the online Interpreter Request Form (https:// riverside.courts.ca.gov/Divisions/ InterpreterInfo/ri-in007.pdf) or contact the clerk’s office and verbally request an interpreter. All requests must be made in advance with as much notice as possible, and prior to the hearing date in order to secure an interpreter. Assistive listening systems, computerassisted real time captioning, or sign language interpreter services are available upon request if at least 5 days notice is provided. Contact the Office of the ADA Coordinator by calling (951) 777-3023 or TDD (951) 777-3769 between 8 am and 4:30 pm or by emailing ADA@riverside.courts. ca.gov to request an accommodation.

A Request for Accommodations by Persons With Disabilities and Order (form MC-410) must be submitted when requesting and accommodation. (Civil Code section 54.8)

Dated: 07/20/2021

W. Samuel Hamrick Jr., Court Executive Officer/Clerk of Court

FAMILY LAW CASE MANAGEMENT

ORDER

TAMUR MASTAFA and HINA FAYYAZ

KHAN CASE NUMBER: FLRI2104690

Pursuant to California Rules of Court, rule 5.83 the court makes the following

Case Management Order:

Do you have information about, or have you participated as a party or as a witness or in some other capacity in another court case or custody or visitation proceeding, in California or elsewhere, concerning a childe subject to this proceeding? No

I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing is true and correct.

Date: 07/23/2021 Tamur Mastafa

e-mail address, or telephone number. (Form MC-040), B. NOTICE TO THE PETITIONER

– YOU MUST DO ALL OF THE FOLLOWING:

1. Serve the petition and case management order on the Respondent, and file proof of service within sixty (60) days after the petition is filed.

2. Serve your preliminary declaration of financial disclosure (Forms FL-142 & FL-150) within sixty (60) days after the petition is filed, and file the Declaration Regarding Service of Declaration of Disclosure (FL-141)

3. If the Respondent does not file a response within thirty (30) days after the service of the petition, you must file a request for entry of default (Form FL165).

4. After filing the request for entry of default, you must file additional paperwork to get a default judgement and finish your case with sixty (60) days. Workshops are available to help you complete your final paperwork. Go to: www.riverside.courts.ca.gov

C. NOTICE TO THE RESPONDENT – YOU MUST DO ALL OF THE FOLLOWING:

1. Complete your response (Form FL120) and serve it on the Petitioner. Then file your response and the proof of service with thirty (30) days after you are served with the petition.

2. Serve your preliminary declaration of financial disclosure (Forms FL142 & FL-150) within sixty (60) days after you file your response, and file the Declaration Regarding Service of Declaration of Disclosure (FL-141).

3. If you do not file a response with thirty (30) days a default may be taken against you and prevent you from participating in this case.

D. OPPORTUNITIES TO RESOLVE YOUR CASE WITHOUT GOING TO COURT:

1. Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): ADR is a voluntary process where the parties work with a neutral mediator to try to resolve their disputes without court hearings or a trial. Mediators help the parties work out voluntary agreements that promote individual and common interests through understanding and cooperation. For more information go to: www.riverside.courts.ca.gov/adr/ famlaw_privatemediation

2. Collaborative Law: Involves a team approach where the parties agree to cooperate with one or more attorneys, advisors, such as accountants, appraisers, and child custody professionals, or any other person to resolve their differences and develop positive communication skills for future contact. Through the collaborative law practice parties reach voluntary agreements on all of the issues in their case without court hearings or trial. For more information go to: www.riverside.courts.ca.gov/ selfhelp/collaborativelaw.pdf.

E. IF YOU NEED COURT ORDERS:

1. File a Request for Order (FL-300) with the court, serve it on the other party and file the proof of service.

2. Meet and Discuss Issues Before the Hearing:

Unless there is a court order involving domestic violence in your case, before any hearing on a Request for Order, you and the other party must meet, discuss, and try to settle all of the issues raised in the request for order. If you reach an agreement on all issues you must file a Stipulation Re: Hearing Resolution, Local Form RI-FL010, as soon as possible.

3. Financial Issues:

If your hearing involves financial issues, such as child support, spousal support, or attorneys’ fees, you must complete, file, and serve on the other party a current and accurate Income and Expense Declaration (Form FL150), including copies of your current paystubs for the last two months. If you need help, please visit the Family Law Facilitator. For more information go to: www.riverside.courts.ca.gov/ selfhelp/fl_facilitators.

F. SANCTIONS: If you do not comply with this case management order you could be subject to sanctions, which may include but are not limited to payment of costs and fees incurred by the other party, court costs, restrictions on what evidence can be presented at any hearing or trial, and/or dismissal of your case.

IT IS SO ORDERED

A. NOTICE TO BOTH PARTIES

1. You should finish your case within 18 months after the petition is filed.

2. If your case is not finished within 18 months, you will be noticed to attend a hearing in order for the court to review the status of our case and determine what steps are needed to finish the case.

3. You must notify the court in writing if you change your mailing address,

Dated: 07/20/2021

Judicial officer

LEGAL #: 3859

Published: April 21, 28, May 5,