Temecula’s DigiFest returns for its seventh year

Ava Sarnowski

Valley News Intern

DigiFest Temecula is hosted by JDS Creative Academy, and is comprised of five events that are held over three days. The festivities are intended to inspire, educate and connect creative individuals. Having completed its 7th year on April 23, DigiFest is considered a staple in Riverside County, and intends to keep growing as an event and competition.

The event was created by Diane Strand, JDS Studios’ executive producer. She is a serial entrepreneur, best-selling author, speaker, and the co-founder of the nonprofit JDS Creative Academy. Across her entire career, she has been involved in A-List shows including General Hospital, Friends and Veronica’s Closet. She has also worked with clients like Abbott Vascular, the city of Temecula, Cal State San Marcos and United Healthcare Services.

Earth Day provides education and fun at Soboba

With more than 40 vendors offering Earth Day crafts, resources and earth-saving tips, over 600 visitors to Soboba’s 17th annual Earth Day celebration on April 20 were given much to think about. Organized by the Soboba Tribal Environmental Department, STED Environmental Director Christian Aceves said, “We extended our reach in the region and found a lot of people who are dedicated to the community and wanted to share their resources.”

Some of the youngest Earth dwellers, students from the Soboba Tribal Preschool, made musical instruments from recycled materials and paraded through the Soboba Sports Complex outdoor area where the event was held.

Teacher Ponie Mojado said the children fashioned tambourines from two paper plates sealed with pinto beans inside and then colored