Valley News - June 22, 2023

TVUSD protesters scream profanities after board ends tenure of Dr. McClay

Richard Saunders

Special to Valley News

On June 13, the majority of the Temecula Valley Unified School Board voted to end Superintendent Jodi McClay’s tenure with the district, echoing a desire for new administrative leadership in working with the school district’s policy board. TVUSD Board President Joseph Komrosky said, “We thank Dr. McClay for her long service to the school district, but the majority of the board determined that it was time for new leadership, with new ideas.”

Old Town Music Festival returns and brings thousands to Temecula Stampede

RIVERSIDE COUNTY – With the goal of preventing wildfires and injuries resulting from Fourth of July celebrations, the Riverside County Board of Supervisors is continuing the “If You Light it, We’ll Write it” illegal fireworks enforcement activity and education campaign.

Soboba Tribal Preschool kindergartners are promoted

Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians

Special to the Valley News

The Soboba Sports Complex gymnasium was filled with excitement as family members waited for kindergarten students from the Soboba Tribal Preschool to enter the room Monday, June 5. Before that moment arrived, a slideshow featuring all 21 youngsters in their caps and gowns followed by group photos of them in classroom activities was punctuated by cheers and applause.

national headlining country artists to perform. Beyond the boundaries of the Temecula Stampede, cars lined front street, and businesses were crowded with people. Many of the attendees dawned

their cowboy boots and hats for the occasion. The aroma of barbecue and beer drifted about the grounds, no thanks to the cooling summer breeze. People were seen dancing and clapping along to the music

brought

brought on by this year’s lineup of musicians. Security was also plentiful, with sheriffs, the fire department, and festival security

Lake Elsinore City Council has short but productive meeting

News

Members of the Lake Elsinore City Council met on June 13 and quickly worked through its agenda. City Council Consent Calendar items 1-22 were on the agenda for a vote. Item No. 16, a change order to United Carports LLC for the Stadium Facility Project, was pulled to be continued so no action was taken on it. Item No. 12, regarding the 2023 annual Consumer Price Index increase for refuse collection services provided by CR&R was held for public comments of which there were two.

Mayor Pro Tem Steve Manos then motioned to approve the remaining balance, which was

seconded by Council Member Brian Tisdale. It passed 4-0, with Council Member Timothy “Tim” Sheridan absent from the meeting. Item No. 12 was then passed unanimously after comments had been heard.

Three items on the Successor Agency Consent Calendar were passed with a 4-0 vote.

A Public Hearing to discuss the second extension of time request for the Wasson Canyon project began with a staff report by Interim Assistant Community Development Director Damaris Abraham on behalf of the Planning Department. A concerned resident said the lack of progress on the

see FESTIVAL, page A-2 see COUNCIL, page A-5

Lake Elsinore Council Member Robert “Bob” Magee offers an important reminder that fireworks are illegal throughout Riverside County and encourages residents to attend professional Independence Day shows to enjoy the lights. Valley News/Courtesy photo

Murrieta mayor provides city’s State of the City address at the Murrieta Hot Springs Resort

Tony Ault Staff Writer

Murrieta Mayor Lisa DeForest gave this year’s State of the City address before a large crowd of civic leaders and residents at the soon-to-be reopened Murrieta Hot Springs Resort Thursday, June 15.

“Murrieta Connected by Community” was her theme, highlighted with a number of video

presentations on the city’s accomplishments and opportunities for the 119,000 residents and numerous businesses coming to the community. She praised her city staff for helping to make Murrieta one of the most sought after locations for business and medical centers in the state and the nation. The city’s own police and fire and rescue departments were lauded for keeping

Murrieta one of the safest cities in the state and nation.

DeForest, in the beginning of her presentation, praised the city staff for, “Creating a healthy and thriving place where citizens want to live.” She had City Manager Kim Summers along with current and former city staff stand before city council members and be recognized to rounds of applause.

A video presentation with each

of the council members speaking about the current accomplishments and amenities in their given districts featured DeForest, Mayor Pro Tem Lori Stone, Cindy Warren, Jon Levell and Ron Holliday. Each of the council members have long lived in the city and were pleased with the amenities available to them as residents for their safety

see MURRIETA, page A-5

Big Kenny from Big & Rich takes the stage at the Old Town Music Festival in Temecula Saturday, June 17. Shawna Sarnowski photo

Diane A. Rhodes Special to Valley

This Independence Day, remember if you light it, we’ll write it

TVUSD protesters scream profanities after board ends tenure of Dr. McClay

Richard Saunders Special to Valley News

On June 13, the majority of the Temecula Valley Unified School Board voted to end Superintendent Jodi McClay’s tenure with the district, echoing a desire for new administrative leadership in working with the school district’s policy board. TVUSD Board President Joseph Komrosky said, “We thank Dr. McClay for her long service to the school district, but the majority of the board determined that it was time for new leadership, with new ideas.”

However, Temecula Valley Educators Association union members who packed the auditorium voiced their opposition stating that the union has always supported McClay because she supported them in years past with their wants and needs. The superintendent had a relationship with the union where the members appreciated her full cooperation.

At times during the three-hour long meeting, there was screaming, yelling and obscene language used by TVEA members. Komrosky queried for clarification if some members were actually issuing threats. According to the reading of the rules at the beginning of the meeting, no persons were allowed to disrupt the procedures and interfere with the board meetings.

Trustee Schwarts, who watched the meeting remotely while on va-

cation, responded, “The audience was upset at the actions of the three newly elected board members, and rightly so.”

The meetings are set up for observation for the public’s benefit with some comments afforded by the public only. According to the rules of procedures for the school district, the rules have been established to ensure orderly communication and to assist the board in its efficiency in conducting policy.

Despite this, screaming accusations and calling board members fascists, racists, anti-gay and comments attacking faith-based individuals and other epithets continued throughout the meeting.

In support of solidarity for TVEA, some members displayed rainbow flags. They stated that their organization, along with supporters for previous members who were voted out, were organizing to recall the elected officials. This is as a result of the board not approving curriculum with support materials including the biography of gay activist Harvey Milk.

Komrosky stated personally, and not on behalf of the entire board, “The district is steadfastly committed to complying with all state laws regarding the adoption of the new curriculum, including compliance with the FAIR ACT. The district is also steadfastly committed to, when allowed, discretion as to what curriculum to adopt that is appropriate for the grade level and

that it will be a compulsory part of the student’s education.”

He further stated, “My personal comments have been misappropriated as an attack on the LGBTQ community. Absolutely not. My comments were non-gender specific, non-sexual orientation specific, and the view of the California legislature: That 33-yearold adults should not have sexual relationships with a 16-year-old minor, regardless of gender.”

Milk’s biographer Randy Shilts wrote about Milk’s underaged lover Jack McKinley in his biography, “The Mayor of Castro Street: The Life and Times of Harvey Milk.” He wrote, “Sixteenyear-old McKinley was looking for some kind of father figure. … At 33, Milk was launching a new life, though he could hardly have imagined the unlikely direction toward which his new lover would pull him,” Shilts wrote.

At an earlier press conference, Komrosky said, “My remarks about Mr. Milk were not based upon him being a homosexual but rather based upon his being an adult having a sexual relationship with a minor. That is the source of my objection to his example to TVUSD K-5 children, not his sexual orientation.”

Komrosky further asked at this press conference, “Do you approve of any 33-year-old person, regardless of their gender identity or sexual preference, having a sexual

relationship with a minor?”

Trustee Steven Schwartz wrote to Valley News, “With respect to Mr. Milk, I have seen articles indicating the young man in question was over 18. The fact that Mr.Milk was ‘mentioned,’ in a supplement to the textbook has no bearing on the value of the curriculum.”

Komrosky mentioned that when he was a member of the U.S. Army, he swore to defend the U.S. Constitution and also swore an oath to the State Constitution when he was elected Trustee to TVUSD.

“The protection of LGBTQ kids is required by both constitutions and I am committed to that,”

Komrosky said. He followed up by saying these remarks were his own opinion and not the opinion reflecting the entire board and that individuals could reference those comments at the very end of his June 14 meeting where he referenced the LGBTQ students at TVUSD and their protections.

On behalf of union members, Governor Gavin Newsom personally dispatched State Attorney General Rob Bonta as his emissary of support for the opposition against the new board members which also include Jen Wiersma and Danny Gonzalez, along with Komrosky. Newsom just recently had the Attorney General also investigate Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco’s actions in his operation of Riverside County jails. Bianco

is also an elected official.

Through Bonta, Newsom also dispatched a letter of possible action against the City of Temecula for considering possibly declaring the municipality a sanctuary city for women who are struggling and need help with resources for having their babies.

One observer named Melinda, who didn’t want to give her last name, felt threatened at board meetings by individuals in the crowd. She said, “I was even called a racist by someone just because I had a different opinion from them.”

One woman, who gave comment at the meeting, stated that she voted Democrat and had more liberal views than most but “as a parent, I don’t want anyone talking about any kind of sexual content to my children. That right should only be reserved for parents.”

Some parents in the audience, who were supportive of the new board, wanted to know why the lawsuits occurring in the district are always in closed session. As parents, they wanted to know, “What’s really been going on in our schools? That’s why many of us voted for the new officials,” one person said. She also mentioned there are actually many union members who quietly support Komrosky and the other newly elected members. The next board meeting is scheduled for June 27.

FESTIVAL from page A-1

guards continuously spectating the area.

Local businesses offering handmade goods on the grounds included Weld + Wool: A Legacy Brand, Kelsey’s Korner, and Temecula Crowns, known for their handpainted and burned hats.

Even when the sun began to settle against the hills, the energy from the crowd outside never depleted. Inside the Stampede building, folks were seen line-dancing, grabbing drinks at the bar, and riding the mechanical bull. All the while, the dance-floor was aglow with colorful lights.

In-between acts, people would restock on both drinks and food, or happily talk amongst their parties. The vendors providing drinks and food included Wilson Creek Winery, Michelob Ultra, Peltzer, and Da Big Show BBQ. Had it not been for the help of The Stampede's owner, Brandie Newman, and the production folks working behind the scenes, the festival would not have been possible.

Redneck Rodeo from Orange County, was the first group of

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the festival’s lineup. They were high-energy and possessed strong musicality. Following them was Runaway June. The trio’s take on the song “The Devil Went Down to Georgia,” combined with their harmonies and fiddle solos, entertained the audience.

Each of the artists singing that day held true to the patriotic theme of the festival. This was evident in Creed Fisher’s performance, as he passed around the United States flag. Coffey Anderson, dedicated his performance of “Mr. Red White and Blue” to those fighting for the country, and also held the American flag high. He specifically mentioned the military, Navy, his father’s Air Force, and the police officers.

For Anderson’s encore performance, he sang “Sweet Home California,” a unique take on the “Sweet Home Alabama,” and tossed roses out into the audience.

Much to everyone’s delight.

American country artist, Eddie Montgomery, started off his performance by singing “Where I Come From,” whilst twirling a microphone stand in an engrossing manner. He encouraged the audi-

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ence to sing along if they knew the words, continuing with pieces like “Lonely And Gone,” “She Couldn’t Change Me,” “Lucky Man,” “Ain’t No Closing Me Down,” “One In Every Crowd,” before concluding with “My Town”. He shared gracious words for Troy Gentry, as well as the heroic individuals who protect the country, and for the nation itself.

Montgomery effortlessly worked the crowd, hyping them up through sharing stories and remaining conversational. The audience was especially receptive to his music, raising their hands up high, mirroring the energy on-stage.

The presence of country music superstars, Big Kenny and John Rich, of the Big & Rich duo, felt like a momentous occasion in itself. The crowd had raced towards

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the center of the area to get a better view of the closing act. Cameras were out and recording, stagelights flashed sporadically. The duo commented on how good it was to see the American flag, and to be back in California, that it felt alive and well.

Big & Rich were openly appreciative of those coming out to attend the festival. They even commented on how California’s heartland is the farmlands, far beyond big cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco. To them, that is where the heart of California is.

Some of the songs they performed included, “Rollin’,” “Wild West Show,” and “Look At You,” which was dedicated to all country girls in the audience. In addition, they sang a cover of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers’ “I Won’t Back Down.”

At one point during the performance, Big & Rich welcomed

three veterans onto the stage. Brian Foster, USMC, Eric Mencha, USN, and Ron Morales, USMC, were offered time to speak about the specifics of their service, and personally thanked by the duo. All three men reaffirmed their devotion to the country and everyone’s freedom.

Before performing “8th Of November,” the duo elaborated on the origins of the piece. It was inspired by a bartender they met in Deadwood, South Dakota. He was a Vietnam veteran, who spent two years healing from injuries he sustained, only to embark on three more tours for the USA immediately after getting out of the hospital. They labeled him a hero, dedicating the song to him, and those who didn’t make it home. Ava Sarnowski can be reached by email at valleystaff@reedermedia.com.

Country musician Coffey Anderson performs at the Old Town Music Festival.

Country fans enjoy a performance from Coffey Anderson at the Old Town Music Festival presented by the Stampede Saturday, June 17. Shawna Sarnowski photos

Eddie Montgomery stands center stage during his performance.

Wildomar to purchase two parcels for a new park or civic building

Tony Ault Staff Writer

The Wildomar City Council authorized the purchase of two undeveloped portions of land from the Anne Sullivan School adjacent to a flood control channel located near 21776 Palomar Street, that will be a proposed site of a future park and/or civic building.

The Anne Sullivan School property currently has a school and private residences for members of the Cafh religious order. The city plans to purchase a 25,511 square foot portion of the Anne Sullivan School property, referred to as the “Vacant Parcel,” along with another parcel across a flood channel separating the two pieces of land called the “Vacant Sliver.” The parcels are connected via two bridges, one for vehicles and the other for pedestrians. The Vacant Parcel is the proposed site of a park or civic building while the Vacant Sliver is the proposed site for a possible small parking lot for the park or civic building. The proposal presented to the council at the June 14 meeting determined that the parcels, with a purchase price of $2,104,000, would be easily accessible to the residents of Wildomar.

As part of its efforts to study and further consider such potential developments on the Vacant Parcel

and Vacant Sliver, the city plans to seek approval from Riverside County Flood Control District to construct a third, new pedestrian bridge to allow pedestrians to access the Vacant Parcel from the proposed parking lot on the Vacant Sliver. It was also found that the parcel, if used for the intended purpose, would be exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act.

Before making a unanimous approval to allow City Manager Daniel York to make the purchase on behalf of the city, with Council Member Dustin Nigg absent, the present council members expressed their pleasure to approve the purchase and the work of the city staff in locating the parcels. The decision to make the purchase was important enough to move it up on the agenda for the council decision.

A CR&R Environmental Services spokesman appeared before the council to explain the firm’s current status in collecting trash in the city and informing the commercial businesses using the service that their fees will not go up in the near future until some of their pickup delays are resolved. He noted that the firm, along with many other service providers, are having difficulty in recruiting qualified drivers, even at $80,000 per year, ever since the COVID-19

pandemic. He also said the company has replaced many of its older trash trucks with newer ones that won’t leak, but others have been on backorder that are due to arrive soon. He urged residents who have pickup or pay problems to call his office for resolutions.

Wildomar has franchise agreements with both CR&R and Waste Management to pick up refuse in the city with both being subject to California’s newest ruling on organic waste disposal which is reportedly now being reviewed in Sacramento for deficiencies.

The council heard from Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District that more than 500 residents in the Sedco Hills area of Wildomar have signed on for a planned septic to sewer conversion in the area that will be installed at no cost to them in the next few years. As a result of the number of signups (74%) EVMWD will be receiving grants from state agencies to build the lines. The spokesman said there are still some signups available. Residents can call 951-200-4136 for details.

In a report by Adam Jantz from the Administrative Services Department, the council was asked to approve the fiscal years 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 budgeted revenues and expenses and schedule of authorized positions during those fiscal years..

He said the proposed revenues for the city’s operating expenses for the fiscal year 2023-2024 are at $16,474,500 and for FY 20242025 seen at $16,717,500 just slightly higher with a downturn in some revenue streams expected in the next few years. The General Fund budget is proposed for 2023-2024 at $3,409,675 and $3,481,975 in FY 2024-2025 giving the fire and police a 2.5% increase. The budget would add five full time staffers by 2024 and three in 2025 that would be needed as the city grows.

Measure AA funding (1-cent sales tax) will add $3,200,000 in pavement repairs, two code enforcement officers and new road maintenance vehicles. He noted that out of 250 resident surveys, their desire was mostly for street and road repairs which the city is trying to meet.

Wildomar’s Capital Improvement Program, which is separate from the General Fund budget, is anticipated to be $30,148,800 for FY 2023-2024 and $55,024,000 for 2024-2025 with much funding coming from a number of grants and shared costs from the county, state, federal government agencies and developers. (TUMP, DIF, etc.)

Looking ahead, in FY 20232024, Jantz identified seven major CIP projects. They include: continuing road rehabilitation and

slurry seal; Palomar Street widening (Phase 2); cemetery improvements (Phase 1); an Interim Field Operation Center; a 20-acre passive park opening; Clinton Keith Road widening and Bundy Canyon Road Improvements (Segment 2).

Jantz pointed out the accomplishments made in FY 2022-2023 included: the Bundy Canyon storm drain; a Road Safety Plan, the Palomar/Clinton Keith sidewalk, trails and bike lanes; Sellers Road/ Bundy Cyn. traffic signal; Monte Vista/Bundy Cyn. traffic signal; and the yet to be accepted Bundy Cyn. Road Widening project (Phase 1). He said the city is working with the developers on the completion of the Bundy Cyn. Phase 1 widening with some deficiencies identified.

The council adopted a bingo Ordinance Amendment with its wording compliant with the state codes on games of bingo. It previously followed the original Riverside County ordinances that were never changed in the city. An Elks Club representative expressed his club’s hope it would not change their nonprofit bingo games that offer many donations to city and nonprofit groups in the community. The council praised the Elks for their many contributions to other nonprofits. Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com.

This Independence Day, remember if you light it, we’ll write it

RIVERSIDE COUNTY – With the goal of preventing wildfires and injuries resulting from Fourth of July celebrations, the Riverside County Board of Supervisors is continuing the “If You Light it, We’ll Write it” illegal fireworks enforcement activity and education campaign.

“It’s critical that everyone understands that illegal fireworks are just that – illegal,” county Board Chair Kevin Jeffries, First District Supervisor, said. “These fireworks have serious costs to homes, hillsides and pets. Now there are also

serious costs to the individuals transporting or setting them off.”

Enforcement activity targets the sale, transportation and use of illegal fireworks – with fines ranging up to $5,000. In recent years, the increasing number of displays of dangerously illegal fireworks and explosives prompted calls countywide to stop this dangerous activity.

The public education portion of the campaign launches today and runs through the Fourth of July holiday, will focus on delivering critical messages to the public

through multiple mediums, including road signs, social media graphics and public service announcements.

Key county departments in this effort included the Sheriff’s Department, County Fire Department, Code Enforcement, Department of Animal Services, Veterans Services and Riverside University Health System.

“Illegal fireworks are dangerous and cause serious injuries – sometimes fatal injuries,” Riverside County Fire Chief Bill Weiser said. “The fires ignited by the ember and

remains of these fireworks damage property and cause devastating wildland fires. Across the county, great efforts are made to provide safe and enjoyable public fireworks shows. Please visit http:// www.rvcfire.org to find a safe, professional and public fireworks show near you.”

By local ordinance, Californiaapproved “safe and sane” fireworks are only permitted within the city limits of Indio, Coachella, Blythe and Desert Hot Springs.

Residents can report illegal fireworks on Riverside County

Valley News/Courtesy image Sheriff’s app, website or by calling their non-emergency toll-free number at 800-950-2444. Submitted by Riverside County

Christopher H. Wright appointed as Chief Probation Officer

The County of Riverside welcomed its newest Chief Probation Officer in May. Christopher H. Wright was unanimously affirmed as the twelfth Chief Probation Officer by the Riverside County Board of Supervisors. Chief Wright proudly became the first African American to serve in this capacity in the county’s history.

The swearing-in ceremony was held at the Riverside Historic Courthouse at 4050 Main Street. Chief Wright’s multiple accomplishments over the years with the Riverside County Probation were acknowledged during the event. He has been instrumental in leading multiple department projects and initiated the department’s first fiveyear strategic plan to be completed and presented in June.

Wright fills many roles, and his duties include a position as Chairman of the Riverside County Community Corrections Partnership Executive Committee, Chairman of the Juvenile Justice Coordinating Council and memberships on multiple Riverside County Law Enforcement Associations.

Community Outreach Ministry

Co-founder Dr. Mona SalomoDavies was appointed to the JJCC in January 2021. She is a representative and voting member for Chairman Kevin Jeffries District 1 Riverside County Board of Supervisors. The council operates to unite community leaders with experience in providing communitybased services to at-risk youth.

Salomo-Davies and her husband

Coach Bob have helped thousands of at-risk youth for more than 20 years, specifically helping youth impacted by parental incarceration who have limited resources and lack family support. Coach Bob congratulated Chief Wright at his swearing-in ceremony and

Ministry for their strong support.

Salomo-Davies explained the JJCC consists of multi-agencies collaborating to develop comprehensive resources and strategies for the prevention, intervention, supervision, treatment and incarceration of juvenile offenders, including strategies to develop and implement local-out-of-home placement options for the offender. She is

one of four team leaders serving on the Pathways to Success Subcommittee; “dedicated to creating collaborative re-entry pathways alongside youth to promote healing, healthy and resilient lifestyles, as well as strengthen families, and restore safety to the community.”

Community Outreach Ministry is focused on early intervention to increase the capacity for at-risk youth to become first-generation high school graduates and skilled

workers. The ministry’s successful treatment and intervention programs through their Mentor Protégé Workshops and Career Exploration are helping at-risk youth in various ways including reducing recidivism. The programs are “giving at-risk kids a second chance to be winners and champions,” according to Salomo-Davies. The nonprofit ministry welcomes readers to visit its website where donations can also be made

Lane closures announced among Menifee project and construction updates

Menifee has project and construction updates to share with the community. For a current list of street projects and construction updates, visit its interactive mobile and web map at www.cityofmenifee.us/traffic.

Audie Murphy Ranch Road –Lane Closures between Destry Drive and Sagebush Lane Menifee Union School District is continuing to perform sidewalk repairs and street pavement restoration along Audie Murphy Ranch Road. Lane closures will be in place in support of the improvement work and flaggers will be present to direct traffic during

the duration of the project. Traffic delays should be expected through the end of June 2023.

Holland Road Overpass – City Capital Improvement Project The City is actively performing work related to the Holland Road Overpass project. Holland Road between Hanover Lane and Antelope Road will remain closed for the duration of the project, which is expected to last 17 months.

There will also be alternating lane closures on the I-215 Freeway from Newport Road to Scott Road during the week of Monday, June 19.

Up to two lanes will be closed and one lane will remain open as work

is being completed. On Friday, June 23, southbound I-215 will have lane closures between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. and northbound I-215 will have lane closures between 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. For additional information and to sign up for project updates, please visit www.hollandoverpass. com

Newport Road at Murrieta Road – Nighttime Lane Closures

Southern California Edison continues nighttime work to underground utility lines at the intersection of Newport and Murrieta roads. Night work will be performed from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. and is expected to continue through June. Lane closures will be in place while this project is active.

Bradley Road at Holland Road – Storm Drain Construction Work

Storm drain facilities are currently being installed adjacent to Holland Road as part of the Menifee 80 residential housing tract. Work has been temporarily delayed, and updates for this project will be provided when work proceeds. Holland Road is cur-

rently open in all traffic directions at this time.

Valley Boulevard between McCall Boulevard and Ridgemoor Street

The developer of Cimarron Ridge continues installing underground improvements in the area of Valley Boulevard between McCall Blvd. and Ridgemoor Street. This portion of Valley Blvd. will be subject to lane closures during this work and traffic delays should be expected in the area through the end of June.

SCE Work on Menifee Road –Newport to Holland

SCE continues trenching new power lines in the right-of-way/ shoulder along Menifee Road, from Newport Road to Holland Road. Work is currently active during daytime hours at the intersection of Newport and Menifee roads. 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. Completion of work in this area is now expected to continue through the end of June.

at www.communityoutreachministry.org. Checks may also be mailed to the organization and made payable to Community Outreach Ministry at 23905 Clinton Keith Road, Suite 114 and 116, Wildomar, California 92595. For more information, email info@ communityoutreachministry.org or call 951-698-7650 (office) or 951-231-5515 (cell). Submitted by Community Outreach Ministry.

Normandy Road Lane Closure – La Ladera Road to Berea Road

SCE work on Normandy Road between La Ladera Road and Berea Road has been temporarily delayed. All traffic lanes have been reopened. Traffic updates will be provided once work resumes. Murrieta Road Improvements – City Capital Improvement Project

The City’s roadway improvement project on Murrieta Road began Monday, June 5. Intermittent traffic control will be in place along Murrieta Road from the Salt Creek Chanel to San Quintin Drive to support the construction work. Improvements include road widening, storm drain improvements, pedestrian curb ramps and a center median. The project is anticipated to be completed in mid-September. Traffic delays should be expected in this area during the project work. 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

Temecula Creek Society is accepting members

TEMECULA – A new organization has been given its official blessing to begin accepting members by The National Society of the Children of the American Revolution, and its name is Temecula Creek Society. Any young person under the age 22 is eligible for membership in The National Society of the Children of the American Revolution. Members range in age from birth to age 21. The prospective member must be lineally descended from a man or woman who rendered material aid to the cause of American Independence as a soldier, sailor, civil officer or recognized patriot in one of the several Colonies or States of the United States.

Temecula Creek Society’s organizing senior president is Cindy Greer of Fallbrook. Greer put together a proposal for the new society, and received approval and sponsorship by the Luiseño Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution. She sent her proposal to the state society president who presented it to the board of management; she notified Greer of

their decision Sunday, June 4.

The Children of the American Revolution’s objectives for its members are to acquire knowledge of American history, to preserve places of historical importance associated with men and women who forwarded American Independence and to learn about and honor the memories of people who rendered service to the cause of the American Revolution. C.A.R. further promotes patriotic anniversaries, honors the flag of the United States of America above every other flag, and loves, upholds and extends the principles of American liberty and patriotism.

Membership in C.A.R. provides an opportunity for children to participate in historical, educational and patriotic activities. All children who can prove lineage to a patriot of the American Revolution are welcome. C.A.R. membership is a very special way of learning about family heritage and history.

Each child is a member of the National Society upon verification of the application. Currently, Temecula Creek

Society is in the process of building their membership. For more information, contact Cindy Greer at cindy.greer@luiseno.californiadar.org. Meetings of the Temecula Creek Society will begin in fall 2023.

N.S.C.A.R. has a 128-year-old history. At the Fourth Continental Congress, Feb. 22, 1895, held in Washington Harriett Mulford Lothrop, the Regent of the Old Concord Chapter, Massachusetts, in a response to the address of President Gen. Mrs. Stevenson, referred to the advisability of forming a young people’s society to be called Children of the American Revolution. A decision was made April 5, 1895, by the founders that C.A.R. should be incorporated as a separate organization of the NSDAR, but that its officers should be members in good standing in the DAR. For more information, visit http://www.nscar.org.

Submitted by The National Society of the Children of the American Revolution.

Christopher H. Wright’s Oath of Office was performed by the Honorable Judith C. Clark.

Chief Probation Officer Christopher H. Wright makes closing remarks. Valley News/Courtesy photos the Chief thanked Bob and Community Outreach

EMWD board ratifies Seventh Street repair contract

Joe Naiman

Writer

Although a city or county is responsible for pavement repair on a public road, a utility including a water district whose projects impact that road is responsible for repair of the road. The Eastern Municipal Water District was thus responsible for repairs to a portion of Seventh Street in San Jacinto, and an EMWD board action Wednesday, June 7, ratified an emergency contract for subsidence and pavement emergency repair.

The 4-0 vote, with Randy Record absent, ratified a $446,437 contract with Downing Construction Inc. to replace and reinforce approximately 350 feet of pave-

MURRIETA from page A-1

and health.

DeForest said the city has been able to “make wise investments, essential city services, infrastructure and community development with a fiscally responsible approach, maintain stability with sustainable growth and plans for long term prosperity.” She said the financial team for the city has made these things happen and made it possible for the city to reach a large 30% reserve out of its $172 million operating budget in the event of an emergency or catastrophe.

She said that “partnerships are the lifeblood of the community… and we value the collaboration with organizations, schools and nonprofits.” She said these collaborations bring diversity and aid to the population.

High among the city’s goals are communication and transparency efforts through many programs online and through other media.

She introduced the audience to the city’s newest publication “Murrieta Southern California,” a magazine that was provided to each member attending the State of City and will be available to all residents periodically with the purpose of letting readers keep up with the city’s accomplishments and new amenities.

The city’s focus on mental health and well-being is shown by its 52 public parks and many nearby hospitals and medical facilities, DeForest pointed out.

She reported on some special announcements about the Golden Triangle development and other economic development projects coming by 2025. Included in those is the expansion of the auto mall area, additional fast food and sitdown restaurants, another Home Depot, an Aldi Market and other projects.

“Things just keep picking up,” DeForset said. She said the city now has a direct, 24-hour online method for requesting building permits and other services.

DeForest was pleased to announce the city’s unique Innovation Center startups for the biotech industry with the business corridor expanded to over 220 acres, providing more facilities for entrepreneurs and new business enterprises along Madison Avenue. Videos showing some of the economic gains, special events and infrastructure improvements the city has experienced in the last few years were shown.

COUNCIL from page A-1

property has led to fire and safety concerns due to overgrown weeds and towering eucalyptus trees. He said granting an extension will just delay the cleanup and contribute to a hazardous environment. The applicant said they will pay very close attention to any abatement needed on the 75-acre parcel and will “maintain the property per fire code.” The Council then voted unanimously to adopt a resolution approving a one-year extension of time to May 14, 2024 for both Tentative Tract Map areas.

The next regular meeting of the Lake Elsinore City Council and Successor Agency is scheduled for Tuesday, June 27 at 7 p.m.

ment along Seventh Street between Winners Circle and Kirby Street. The board action also ratified contracts with Cozad & Fox and with Inland Foundation Engineering Inc. for construction support services and authorized a total budget of $490,000 for the emergency repair project.

The San Jacinto Valley Interceptor gravity sewer along Seventh Street was constructed in 2008. The contractor encountered difficulty constructing the pipe trenches due to soil conditions and implemented a construction method to achieve the required soil compaction; however, uneven pavement and surface cracks became visible on Seventh Street soon after the construction was completed.

“Murrieta is the leader in innovation,” DeForest said in the video. In that regard, Rob Saunders, managing director of Murrieta Hot Springs Resort redevelopment, who introduced the resort as the host for this year’s State of City address along with the Murrieta-Wildomar Chamber of Commerce, is expected to open this winter, intent on being “one of the best health and wellness retreats in America” and a great addition to the community as a whole. He said the resort, now undergoing a complete rejuvenation with a hotel, warm springs, meeting and conference rooms and spas will soon begin taking reservations for

In 2015, Inland Foundation Engineering performed a geotechnical evaluation of the observed pavement failures including subsurface soil investigations and testing. The recommended repair solution included a pavement section with three alternating base and geogrid layers extended across the full roadway width. EMWD and the city of San Jacinto staff discussed the recommended solution, and the city agreed with the proposed repair approach. The EMWD board awarded a pavement replacement contract in September 2016. The settled areas were repaired successfully, but Inland Foundation Engineering identified additional areas to be continually monitored for future settlement. EMWD staff

January stays. She turned her attention to the city’s Code Enforcement team that will be increased in the coming year and the police and fire departments’ technical upscaling ensuring even more safety in the community. In a surprise to the audience, a quiet small drone rose above the stage showing its photo images of the crowd on the hall’s big screens, one of the new devices the police department has on hand, with more coming. The drone showing brought much applause from the audience. The Murrieta Police Department now has five FAA certified drone pilots that can

subsequently monitored those areas. The winter 2023 rainfall created subsidence adjacent to a previously-repaired location between Winners Circle and Kirby Street. The city of San Jacinto closed that portion of Seventh Street and notified EMWD staff March 22.

EMWD operations staff inspected the subsidence and confirmed that other previously-repaired sections did not show signs of uneven pavement or failures. The success of the other pavement sections led EMWD staff to conclude that the Inland Foundation Engineering repair solution should be replicated. EMWD staff developed an emergency repair plan and solicited bids from the district’s on-call

be used jointly with Murrieta Fire and Rescue.

The department is also expecting a new Emergency Mobile Command Unit thanks to a federal government grant. DeForest noted another goal of the police department will be additional staffing to provide one officer per 1,000 residents as recommended across all nationwide departments. Police

Chief Anthony Conrad narrated a video about how far the police department has come from its beginnings and the dedication his officers are showing to the community, with most of them living in the city. In the video he introduced a part of

contractors. A request for proposals was issued March 30 and had an April 7 deadline. Five bidders responded. Downing Construction, which is based in Redlands, had the low bid of $446,437, and the bid was deemed to be responsive. The emergency repair work was completed, and that section of Seventh Street was reopened to traffic May 4.

Cozad & Fox, whose headquarters office is in Hemet, performed pre-construction and post-construction surveying. Inland Foundation Engineering, whose office is in San Jacinto, performed geotechnical observation and compaction testing services. Joe Naiman can be reached by email at jnaiman@reedermedia. com.

the department’s officer wellness team, Mr. Simpson, a 2-1/2 year old Labrador service dog that suddenly walked up to the stage with his handler, wagging his tail to greet the mayor.

DeForest said the city has five fire stations assuring Murrieta’s Fire and Rescue response times stay low and are now looking for another fire station at the southeast side of the city and to have another 25-foot longer ladder truck in order to meet the needs of the thriving city.

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

Peripheral Neuropathy Breakthrough!

“My feet feel like they’re on re.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ey’ve been everywhere else.

ey’ve been told there’s no hope.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Murrieta’s 52nd Father’s Day Car Show brings the best in classics, hot rods and customized vehicles to Cal Oaks Sports Park

Tony Ault Staff Writer

“There is no other place I would rather be,” one classic car driver on Father’s Day weekend said as he entered his tricked-out convertible into the 52nd Father’s Day Car Show at California Oaks Sports Park in Murrieta on June 17.

“We have preregistered about 300 pre-1980 cars and specialty vehicles with probably about another 50 not registered,” Laura D. Fasso, recreation supervisor for Murrieta’s Special Events, said. She said the city gives out 46 trophies for the best in a number of categories from best Dad’s Day cars to the Mayor’s Choice at the signature event.

“The top Best of Show trophy is in memory of the late Gil Losi, who started the car show with Radio Controlled cars. Next year the Best of Show tribute car will be pictured on T-shirts given out to the registered entrants,” Fasso said.

Hundreds of spectators walked through the field of cars oohing and ahhing at the many brightly colored, unique and powerful vehicles, especially one like Mark Goodacre’s Cummings high powered diesel truck and mounted rat mobile that boosted over a total of 1200 horsepower. In showing off his creations he could not help but talk about Murrieta’s and Temecula’s love for showing off cars and trucks rebuilt and modified for show and racing now and in the past.

Little Harper Berge, 2, speaks of her love of old and unusual cars by riding in her father’s T-bucket Rat Rod built from a Radio Flyer wagon at the event.

More that two dozen food, service club and merchandise vendors backed up the lines of cars while Candy-O, a Cars tribute band from Los Angeles, played Rock & Roll music echoing over the park.

Murrieta’s own police and fire and rescue vehicles flashed their red and blue lights for spectators to visit and know they were provided the best in public service in the community.

The event was one of the first Murrieta Recreation signature events with its spectacular Birthday Bash and Fourth of July Fireworks show.

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

Harper Berge, 2, and her father with brother Nathan Berge from Berge’s Garage in Murrieta, who actually built the real Chevy LS engine powered Rat Rod at the Murrieta Father’s Day Car show.

Carlos and Danielle Garcia proudly stand by their 1964 shiny Volkswagen bug awaiting entrance into the 52nd annual Murrieta Father’s Day Car Show.

Mark Goldacre from Temecula, who still remembers the early Great Temecula Tractor Races, with his father Grand Marshal Eric Goldacre. Mark shows off his unique 700 hp Cummings Diesel powered 1954 cabover with air bags carrying a 500 hp Cummings Diesel engine 1932 Ford Rat Rod, a new entry into the Murrieta Father’s Day Car Show.

Juan Soto with his hydraulic lifted green-striped 1963 Chevrolet 350 hp Impala awaits his opportunity to win a trophy in the Jacked-up car category at the Father’s Day Car Show at Cal Oaks Sports Park in Murrieta.

A car show couldn’t be a car show without a fleet of the latest privately owned Chevrolet Corvettes with their uplifted doors and rear engines on display by Vettes Out West (VOW) at the Murrieta Father’s Day Car Show on June 17.

California Oaks Sports Park in Murrieta becomes a field of hundreds of classic cars, hot rods, muscle cars, rat rods and passenger vehicles of every description Saturday, June 17 at the city’s 52nd Annual Father’s Day car show. Valley News/Tony Ault photos

One of America’s and Canada’s best Jeep off-road vehicles is shown at the Murrieta Father’s Day Car Show.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

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

CHILDREN’S EVENTS

June 26 – 6-7:30 p.m. Smash Book DIY at the Ronald H. Roberts Temecula Public Library, 30600 Pauba Road. Smash books are a creative, low stress and fun way to collect together different thoughts, dreams, feelings and interests. Participants will be provided with examples, blank journals and art supplies to begin their own smash book. Program is for grades 7-12 and limited to 25 participants. Register by calling 951-693-8940.

June 30 – 7 p.m.Murrieta Public Library hosts Pinto Bella and her hula hoops at Murrieta Town Square Park and Amphitheater, 1 Town Square in Murrieta. Get ready to learn about different kinds of hula hoops and movements, watch a performance with multiple hoops and practice your “air hoops.” Pinto Bella is a movement artist, musician, fire performer, visual artist and educator who is touring the U.S. this summer.

July 3 – 6 to 7:30 p.m. Come compete in Magical Trivia & Pizza at the Ronald H. Roberts Temecula Public Library, 30600 Pauba Road. The teen program is for grades 7-12. Enjoy a magical evening of themed trivia, games, prizes and pizza. Costumes are welcome. Sponsored by the Temecula Teen Library Council. Registration required, which can be made at the library reference desk or by calling 951-693-8940. Limited to 40 participants. For more information, visit https://TemeculaCA.gov/ Library.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Now to July 27 – 7 p.m. Temecula’s Summer Concert Series begins with a great lineup of local bands at the Temecula Amphitheater, 30875 Rancho Vista Road. Gates open Thursdays at 5 p.m. with the final outdoor concert at Temecula’s Civic Center, 41000 Main Street, starting at 6:30 p.m. Bring blankets, lawn chairs and snacks. First concert June 22 features Jumping Jack Flash.

June 24 – 2-9 p.m. Attend the 32nd Murrieta Birthday Bash at California Oaks Sports Park, 40600 California Oaks Road, with vendors, food and music. K-Tel All Stars is headlining the musical

performances with 70s hits. For more information, contact the Murrieta Community Services Dept. at 951-304-7275.

June 24 – 4-9:30 p.m. City of Menifee invites the community to celebrate our nation’s independence at the annual Independence Celebration presented by Temecula Valley Toyota and TemeculaValley

Lexus at Wheatfield Park, 30627 Menifee Road. Many activities for all ages including a community parade, kids’ zone ($15 wristband required), food and craft vendors, beer garden, and live music. The evening will conclude with a spectacular fireworks display starting at 9 p.m.

June 30 – 7 p.m. Attend a hula hooping class at Murrieta Town Square Park and Amphitheater in Murrieta. Get ready to twist, twirl and learn tricks with hula hoops. Discover this playful activity for all ages. Bring chairs, blankets and hula hoops.

July 4 – 10 a.m. Temecula’s annual Fourth of July Extravaganza begins with a parade, beginning in the south end of Old Town Temecula and traveling from arch to arch. Fireworks at 9 p.m Ronald Reagan sports Park, 30875 Rancho Vista Road, Temecula.

July 12 to Aug. 23 – 5-9 p.m. Sunset Market every second and fourth Wednesday of the month. The market will feature live entertainment, a gourmet food court and some of the finest artisans and craftspeople in Southern California. The family friendly event is located in Town Square Park in Old Town Temecula.

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 – Line dancing classes are held Wednesdays at Lake Elsinore/Wildomar Elks

Lodge, 33700 Mission Trail, in Wildomar across from the Animal

Friends of the Valleys. Classes have a DJ with learning levels beginning to intermediate. Have fun and exercise at the same time at $5 per lesson. Contact Joyce Hohenadl at 951-674-2159.

ONGOING – Sun City Civic Association Monthly Square Dance sessions are held Sundays

from 1:30-5 p.m. at 26850 Sun City Boulevard.

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

Local symphony stirs writer’s soul

Tim O’Leary Special to the Valley News May I please introduce you to the magic of music and those who make it? In this case, the chimes are classical, and the makers populate the Temecula Valley Symphony. Those professional music makers stir my soul with angelic sounds, all steeped in melody, unity, history, beauty, tradition and poise. It is perfection, pure and

simple with 60 or so instruments often punctuated by stirring solos and blended voices.

But once again, dear friends, I am getting ahead of myself. I know that I need to start at the beginning. And in this case, the window to this world was opened by a high school pal, Ed Castelano. My experiences with music were limited when he and I became co-workers as teenagers.

My move to the suburbs came on the heels of my father owning a bar and restaurant which, of course, came with a Wurlitzer jukebox. I fell in love with Johnny Cash and Roy Orbison there, but I was baffled by the Beatles. The Rolling Stones were raucous. Nat King Cole was my mother’s favorite crooner. Elvis was the king and Patsy Cline was the queen.

But, alas, I was musically inept. My drum lessons were a bust. I struck a bad chord with guitar lessons. For me, speaking Russian would have been easier than reading music.

Castelano played the rock guitar when we met, but he soon drifted into symphonic music. From him I learned of Arturo Toscanini, whom many consider history’s greatest conductor. From Castelano, I also learned of the beauty of the music that traces nature’s whims and has kept humanity’s pulse through wars, pain and pleasure.

He was admitted to the prestigious Eastman School of Music and later went on to play in the Syracuse Symphony Orchestra. He was my best man at my first wedding, but we lost touch when I moved to Texas. Fast forward to California, a divorce and a new relationship. Margaret lived in Hillcrest and I lived in Menifee when we met on the internet. She had season tickets

low the Old Town Temecula Farmers Market on Facebook to stay updated. No pets allowed.

WORKSHOPS, MEETINGS, NOTICES

June 24 – 5-8 p.m. Attend the opening night of the Nature Education Foundation at the Santa Rosa Plateau’s summer Art Show and Summer Kick-Off with local artists, receptions and no-host wine and craft beers. A youth ballet by Junior Company Showcase highlights the event. Tickets required. See www.the-nef.org for details and prices.

June 26 – 6 p.m. Temecula Valley Historical Society Free Presentation by Aditi Wocester. Worcester will present information regarding conducting research at the San Diego County Archives, a collection that holds an estimated 65,000 recorded maps, 250 cubic feet of historic birth, death and marriage records, 600 cubic feet of official records, and an estimated 40,000 rolls of microfilm. Presentation will take place at the Little Temecula History Center, the red barn at the corner of Redhawk Parkway and Wolf Store Road. Questions or info on the presentation may be addressed to Rebecca Farnbach at info@temeculahistory.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 Commu-

to the San Diego Symphony. We spent many dreamy evenings in Symphony Hall and the orchestra’s outdoor venues by the bay. Eventually we married and split the distance, settling in Fallbrook. But making round trips on trafficchoked Friday nights more and more became a chore. Thus, and with great joy, we discovered the Temecula Valley Symphony.

I have always loved it more than San Diego’s symphony. Temecula’s symphony has always had a bootstrap feel, a blue collar slant that is closer to my roots than the snooty set in San Diego.

My recent freedom from caregiving, as Margaret is now settled in a Boston-area dementia facility near her son and his extended family, has allowed me to return to this beloved art form.

I have attended several concerts as well as the Saturday, April 8, talk by conductor John Mario and cellist Ruslan Biryukov. The two teased each other over tales of composers Mozart, Brahms, Tchaikovsky and Shostakovich. Their talk attracted about 45 avid listeners to the Ronald H. Roberts Temecula Public Library.

I also have reconnected with Susan Miyamoto, who oversees the orchestra. Many locals know her as a stalwart foe of the Liberty Quarry proposal. She is also a professional piano teacher who shares a Temecula studio with other local music teachers.

Having struggled to survive the coronavirus pandemic lockdowns, the symphony capped its 20222023 Season of Hope on a high note, with four standing ovations at the Temecula Valley High School auditorium Saturday, April 22. The nonprofit has charted its future with a strategic plan that aims to spur “a new beginning.” It does not

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

ONGOING – 10-11:30 a.m.

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

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

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

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

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

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

gloss over the challenges, which have become more obvious as the public’s music tastes have drifted away from the classics.

Time magazine might have first written about the trend in June 2001 with a piece headlined: “Is

The Symphony Orchestra Dying?”

According to the article, “the nation’s 1,600 symphonies today face the greatest challenge ever to their existence.” It ticked off a few big cities – Oakland, New Orleans, Denver and Birmingham, Alabama, among them – that had folded in previous years.

It reeled off the financial difficulties that the surviving symphonies face, noting: “The numbers are grim.” It warned that “orchestras are in danger of becoming cultural dinosaurs.”

The New York Times did a similar analysis in June 2005. The New Republic followed suit in August 2013, and “ABC News” echoed the lament in April 2017.

Yet Temecula survives on a shoestring. The orchestra had a $171,574 budget during the last fiscal year. Of that, nearly $48,000 was paid to the musicians and soloists. Concert tickets covered $50,850 of the total operating expenses. The rest of the funds came from grants, donations and tuition payments from the symphony’s youth program.

According to the group’s strategic plan – released in October 2022 – the organization has the vision, strengths, talents and abilities to become a regional symphony that can partner with businesses, schools and local governments.

“TVS has served the Temecula Valley for 25 years and now stands poised to grow into the symphony orchestra the Temecula Valley community deserves,” according to the plan.

Idyllwild Arts’ ‘Jazz in the Pines’ fundraiser to return in July

IDYLLWILD – Idyllwild Arts

Academy announced the return of its popular annual fundraiser, Jazz In The Pines, marking its 29th year with a lineup of live performances and workshops. The 2023 iteration will feature performances by famed artists and students, taking place on the art school’s 205-acre campus at 52500 Temecula Road in Idyllwild as well as select venues in the town of Idyllwild, including FERRO, Middle Ridge Winery, the Grand Idyllwild Lodge, Creekstone Lodge, Harvey House and Cafe Aroma. Two special events will be featured off the mountain at The Merc in Old Town Temecula.

This year’s Jazz In The Pines is curated once again by New York Times-featured jazz vocalist Rose Colella, who has performed at the festival for many years. Headliners include Grammy awardwinning trumpeter John Daversa and Marshall Hawkins’ Seahawk MOJO, along with Euphoria Brass Band, Joshua White, Sherry Williams, Yve Evans, Rose Colella, Tom Hynes, Dan St. Marseille, Bob Boss, Frank Fontaine, Tina Raymond and The Idyllwild Arts All-Star Student Jazz Combo. The festival will feature 13 venues

Jazz in the Pines will feature live performances and workshops for students. Valley News/http://idyllwildarts.org photos

hosting 27 public performances, open master classes, book readings/signings and live podcast recordings, where guests are invited to join the conversation as Idyllwild Arts President Pamela Jordan interviews world-renowned artists for her podcast, “One World. One Idyllwild. The Series.”

The new Jazz In The Pines Festival and Student Clinic restores the original vision of festival cofounder Marshall Hawkins, bassist, teacher and walking treasure

trove of jazz. Centering around the Student Clinic, the two-week line-up of concerts builds a bridge between the professionals and the next generation of jazz artists. Guests can purchase tickets for individual events as well as an allaccess pass: https://idyllwildarts. org/jazz-in-the-pines/. Submitted by Idyllwild Arts Academy.

Pala Casino Spa Resort to present country star Clay Walker July 6

PALA – Pala Casino Spa Resort will present American country star Clay Walker Thursday, July 6, performing live outdoors at the Starlight Theater. The show will start at 8 p.m.

There’s more to the duality of Clay Walker’s debut “Show Dog Nashville” album “Texas To Tennessee” than the title. Certainly, the realities of place are as central as this comeback album’s name implies: Nashville busily working toward the next fresh hit; Texas moving at its inimitable and familiar pace. There’s also a mix of songwriting and production approaches, evident and more nuanced relationships between the songs themselves and the overarching presence of a natu-

rally gifted vocalist who relentlessly pursues his own development as a singer. But don’t mistake those dualities for dichotomy – and certainly not polarity. In a storied career dotted with smash singles, platinum albums and countless honors and acclaim, maybe the connection between country’s timeless themes and music-of-the-moment timeliness has been there all along.

Many of the country fans behind the almost 20 million on-demand and video streams for his latest single “Need A Bar Sometimes” – who may also be among his 750,000 TikTok followers – are wholly unaware of Walker’s history. Discovered in a Beaumont area bar by noted

producer and head of Giant Records James Stroud – Toby Keith, Tracy Lawrence, Tim McGraw, Kenny Rogers – Walker was in his early twenties when he started rattling off a string of smash hits. His self-titled debut album rocketed to platinum status, the first of four to cross the million-sold mark.

Tickets prices are $25, $35 and $55 and are on sale at the Pala Box Office, http://www.palacasino.com or http://www.etix.com. This show is one of the lineup of headliner and tribute concerts that will be held at the Starlight Theater and Events Center.

Submitted by Pala Casino Spa Resort.

Clay Walker.

Valley News/Courtesy photo

Movie review: ‘Transformers: Rise of the Beasts’

Bob Garver Special to the Valley News

Few blockbuster franchises are as reviled by critics as “Transformers.” The 2007 original and its 2009 sequel “Revenge of the Fallen” both have special places among the worst movies of all time. Later sequels weren’t exactly improvements –though 2018 spinoff “Bumblebee” was surprisingly well reviewed – but they didn’t inspire the same vitriol, if only because everyone knew to lower their expectations. Still, the “Transformers” brand is associated with eyesore special effects, nauseating mechanical whooshing noises and unfunny comedy. Director Michael Bay is out, as apparently even he’s sick of these movies, but Steven Caple Jr. steps in seamlessly to ensure that the new movie is still a blemish on the summer movie calendar.

Having said that, I’ll start off with a compliment: at least I like the main human this time. Original lead Shia LaBeouf was almost as insufferable on screen as he was off, and all-American bohunk Mark Wahlberg was bland. But Anthony Ramos manages to inject enough charm into underwritten, down-onhis-luck ex-soldier Noah Diaz that he sails right over that low bar to be the most affable human yet. Danielle Fishback as artifacts expert Elena Wallace isn’t quite the best second banana in the series – that would be Isabel Moner from “The Last

Knight” – but at least she’s better than the sleazily objectified love interests from the LaBeouf era. Noah and Elena soon find themselves in the middle of a war between the good Autobots, this time aligned with a new race called Maximals and the evil Terrorcons.

The Autobots, as always, are led by Optimus Prime, played by Peter Cullen, and feature load-carrying member Bumblebee, though this time the human’s entry point isn’t Bee, but Mirage, played by Pete Davidson, a trickster that likes undercover work. The Maximals are led by gorilla-like Maximus Primal, played by Ron Perlman, though the show is stolen by recent Oscar winner Michelle Yeoh as the falcon-esque Airazor. They’re all banding together to stop worlddevourer Unicron, played by Colman Domingo, and his army, led by Scourge, played by Peter Dinklage. The interplanetary war comes down to a battle over an artifact, and the various heroes aren’t on the same page about whether to protect it or destroy it, so they all need to learn a lesson about teamwork and sacrifice. Once they do, it’s just a matter of the usual clanging and whooshing.

The movie makes the odd decision to set itself in 1994, which gives the filmmakers an excuse to throw some mid-90’s hip-hop on the soundtrack – Bumblebee gets the best music cue, big surprise – but there’s little reason other than that.

Cook cucumbers? Why not!

Not that Earth is likely to get eaten by Unicron anyway, but the stakes seem lower knowing that we made it to 1995. Similarly, we know that Optimus Prime and Bumblebee are going to make it to 2007, so there’s no need to worry about their fates here, even when Bumblebee is apparently killed for the umpteenth time before whatever resurrection they have planned for this installment.

“Transformers: Rise of the Beasts” gives people exactly what they expect from a “Transformers” movie, but much less than what they should expect from a blockbuster. It had the bad fortune to come out the week following the best blockbuster of the year in “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse,” a film that will probably overtake it at the box office next weekend because this movie is so disposable. The film ends with a promise to soon cross over with another franchise, one whose last installment was “Transformers”-level bad without the admitted commercial success. It might not be so bad if they bring Ramos along for the ride, but I know better than to hold these movies to a high standard.

Grade: C-

“Transformers: Rise of the Beasts” is rated PG-13 for intense sequences of sci-fi action and violence and language. Its running time is 127 minutes. Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@ nyu.edu.

Homemade sauces for beef and pork are simple and satisfying

Judith Bell

Food Editor

Somewhere in my culinary experiences, I was taught “you can cook anything.” Add to that admonition was the caveat: how it tastes will tell you if you ever want to do that again!

Thus, when I was given the opportunity to braise cucumbers, I did it and was pleasantly pleased with the result. The cucumbers must not be overcooked. Remove from the heat while still crisp-tender and you’ll likely enjoy a “new” veggie. It also is an unusual veggie to accompany delicate foods such as grilled fish and roasted chicken. Guests may seem a wee bit surprised by the cooked cucumber. Simply reassure your guests that you, too, were once a skeptic.

Braised Cucumbers

• 3 medium cucumbers

• 1/3 cup water

• 1 tsp fresh chopped dill

• 1 chicken bouillon cube

Peel cucumbers and trim ends. Slice peeled cucumbers on the bias into medium-thick slices.

Bring water to a boil. Add bouillon cube. Add cucumbers and cook only until cucumbers are crisply tender (al dente). Drain and toss with dill. 3-4 servings

Food manufacturers keep com-

ing up with so many new packaged foods, it seems the home cook doesn’t have to do anything but shop and buy their creations. The following two sauces repudiate that idea. Both have such interesting and intriguing flavors they’d likely to not appeal to the national palate.

At our house, the Smokey Sauce for Beef has probably been used with almost every cut of beef imaginable…from a beef brisket that is very slowly cooked at a very low temperature to a quickly seared steak. We simply love its flavor (I always double the recipe.)

Smokey Sauce for Beef

• ¼ cup vinegar

• ½ cup water

• 2 tsp. brown sugar

• 1 tsp. yellow mustard

• ½ tsp. pepper

• 1 ½ tsp. salt

• 2 thin slices lemon

• 1 thick slice onion

• ¼ cup butter

• ½ cup catsup

• 2 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce

• 1 ½ tsp. liquid smoke

Mix vinegar, water, brown sugar, mustard, pepper, salt, lemon, onion and butter. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes. Strain. Add remaining ingredients and bring to a boil. Use as a basting sauce

Bob’s Favorite BBQ Sauce for Spareribs

• 2 (4 ½ ounce) jars apricot baby food

• ½ cup brown sugar

• 1/3 cup catsup

• ½ cup vinegar

• 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice

• 2 tsp. soy sauce

• 2 tsp. ground ginger

• ½ tsp. salt

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ cup hickory-flavored bottled barbecue sauce (Open Pit recommended)

Valley News/Adobe Stock photo or roasting sauce for beef. Makes about 1 ½ cups of sauce. (Recipe can be doubled.) When my husband and I were dating, I made this BBQ sauce with the unlikely ingredient of apricot baby food. He loved it. We married and I am still making this sauce and he is still loving it. Need I say more?

Combine baby food, brown sugar, catsup and vinegar. Heat and blend well. Remove from heat. Add remaining ingredients. Bring to a simmer. Use for pork spareribs or other grilled pork cuts. (Recipe can be doubled.)

TEMECULA – Old Town Temecula Association announced its annual Summer Sunset Taste of Old Town, which will be held Tuesday, July 25, from 5-8:30 p.m. Tickets are $30 per person and available at http://OldTownTemecula.org or $40 at the door while supplies last.

Attendees will stroll through Old Town Temecula enjoying food samplings from a variety of Old Town restaurants and retailers. Live music will be at select locations from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Participating stores will be open late for shopping.

For more information, email info@OldTownTemecula.org or call 951-350-4413. Submitted by Old Town Temecula Association.

Valley News/Courtesy photo

Summer Sunset Taste of Old Town tickets now available

The Coaches Couch Summer fun for children out of school

Heidi

Simmons Special to the

Valley News

It’s summertime, and the living is crazy.

The weather is perfect for barbecues, days at the pool and trips to the beach. Sound too perfect? Well, it is.

The children are also out of school for several months now, so the above diversions are only going to last so long. If parents want to keep their sanity this summer, don’t despair. There is a plethora of amusements to pursue right in their own backyard. So, before their children can say, “I’m bored.” They will be armed with an arsenal of adventures, for all budgets.

Camping or on a safari

For the younger set, ages 3 and up, let their imagination and not your wallet lead the way to creative play. Your children might not be aware of the “magical” times that can happen with a clothesline and clothespins. Help them build an outdoor tent for a camping experience or safari. Take a standard clothesline and tie it from one tree to another or fence post about 6-8 feet apart. Next take two blankets – one for each side – securing them to the clothesline with pins at the top making an “A” shape. Now pound in several clothespins into the ground on both sides to anchor the bottom of the blankets in place. Next, lay down several blankets inside your tent with pillows for the floor and bedding. Safe in their own backyard, prepare a meal your children can eat in their tent served on “pie-tins” to make it more rustic. Give them a flashlight, books to read, etc. so when it gets dark, they will feel like they’re on a grand adventure but still close to you.

Two cans and a string

RIVERSIDE COUNTY – Riverside University Health System-Behavioral Health invites community members to learn more and contribute to its Mental Health Services Act Three-Year Plan by attending a public forum and hearing, in-person or online.

MHSA is a funding source for local mental health services, directly impacting the care available in Riverside County. By participating in the public hearings, community members have a unique opportunity to influence how these funds are used, shaping the future of mental health care in their region.

In-person forums and hearings will be held at two locations.

The first is Tuesday, June 27, at Moreno Valley Conference Center, 14075 Frederick St., in Moreno Valley. The forum will be held from 3-5 p.m., followed by the hearing from 5:30-7 p.m.

The second is Thursday, June 29, at Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa, 32-250 Bob Hope Drive, in Rancho Mirage. The forum is scheduled from 3-5 p.m., followed by the hearing from 5:30-7 p.m.

Simultaneously, public hearing videos will be available until Friday, June 30, on RUHS-BH’s

Another favorite is making your children an old-fashioned version of a “telephone.” Take two empty soup cans, remove the labels and clean. First, make a hole in the bottom center of each can, attach a 3-foot string and secure it with a knot to the bottom of the hole, so the string cannot come loose, making it as taut as possible. As your children talk to each other, the string transfers the sound of their voices through air vibrations traveling to the bottom of the can, it causes the string to vibrate to the other can, so their voice will be heard.

Down on the farm

Ever go to an alpaca farm? Well, there is one right in Temecula. The Alpaca Hacienda is a place for children of all ages to learn about these animals, how to spin alpaca fiber into yarn and feed one by hand. All tours are private, so book one in advance. 951-440-9021.

Kenny’s Strawberry Farm in Fallbrook gets your child out in the sunshine, picking berries to work up an appetite. The entrance fee for each child is a purchase of a small container for picking at $8. The restaurant on the property offers strawberry lemonade, shortcake and ice cream bars. For more information, call 951-212-5808.

It’s a zoo.

Sugar Plum Zoo in Temecula is a family friendly petting zoo for all ages. Kids 3 and under are free, and those 3 to 12 are $5. There is also a chocolate shop on the premises. For more information, call 951-390-3566.

Movies in the park

Harveston Community Park in Temecula offers free, family movies at dusk, along with free concerts and paddle boats for rent on their lake. For more information, call 951-694-6411.

Movies in the park are a fun and entertaining summer event that is family friendly.

Regal Cinema offers a 2023 summer movie discount program for children the first showing Tuesday and Wednesday of every month. All tickets are $2 each. For more information, call 844462-7342.

Mind games

Outdoor Escape Room Scavenger Hunt Old Town Temecula, by Mind Trap Escape Rooms, offers a one of a kind excursion and brings an “escape” element into the open air where children and adults can solve puzzles, find clues and hunt for answers as they unravel a mystery. With three more indoor locations, two in Temecula and one in Murrieta, this experience is $20 per person, and up. For more information, call 951-506-5565. Lights, camera…action.

JDS Studios in Temecula is offering a visual and performing arts summer camp for ages 10 and up, which is hands-on, creative and educational from June 19-30, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Learn improv, script writing and backstage production. Other acting classes are also available. For more information, call 951-296-6715.

Limelight Acting School is opening a new Temecula campus. Starting Friday, June 30, children can take acting lessons, voice over techniques, how to audition, private lessons and more. For more information, call 661-505-2990.

With much to offer in the way of local entertainment, there are still those who for many days this summer will have their children with them at home. Looking back to

when that was me, I learned to be very creative early on. From teaching my children how to bake, to plant a vegetable garden, to playing hopscotch, it was always the best of times when we did things together. So enjoy my friends, they won’t be young forever.

Heidi Simmons is a certified life coach with over 14 years of coaching experience in Southern California and a background in working with women with major health issues and life transitions. As a certified life coach, end of life traditional coach and reiki healing practitioner, she specializes in chronic diseases, such as cancer, family estrangement, end of life transitioning and those experiencing bereavement.

Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube channels and on http:// www.rcdmh.org/MHSA/MHSAPlan-Update.

Through these forums, both inperson and online, residents can delve into the MHSA Plan and associated programs, ask questions and share their feedback. Every comment made is incorporated into the plan submitted to the Riverside County Board of Supervisors and the California Department of Health Care Services. In this way, Riverside County ensures that the voices of its residents directly influence local mental health services.

Dr. Matthew Chang, director of RUHS-Behavioral Health, underscored the importance of public participation.

“Every voice in Riverside County is essential,” Chang said. “This public hearing is an excellent opportunity for the community to contribute to the future of mental health care in Riverside County. We strongly encourage everyone to participate.”

For more information, call 951955-7198 or visit http://www. RUhealth.org.

Submitted by Riverside County Behavioral Health.

Valley News/Adobe Stock photo

Riverside County Behavioral Health seeks feedback on 3-year plan

Take a dive into swimming pool safety

Fire Chief Sam DiGovanna

Special to the Valley News

Summer is upon us, and temperatures are heating up this week. Many people are spending their time in pools to beat the heat. Unfortunately, there is the dangerous side to summer and swimming pools.

Drowning incidents are dramatically on the rise locally a nd statewide. Parents whose children have drowned say the day of the tragedy started out just like any other day. No matter how the drowning happened or where it happened – pool, spa or any other body of water – one thing was the same, the seconds that claimed their child’s life slid by silently, without warning, it happens just like that and can never

be brought back.

Drowning is preventable.

Children drown without a sound. Drowning is a quiet event. There is no splashing, no screaming and no noise at all. What can you do to prevent drowning incidents?

Follow the ABC’s of water safety.

A is adult supervision. Assign an adult as “Water Watcher” to keep their eyes on the water at all times. Never swim alone or leave the children in a pool at any time unattended.

B is barriers such as fences, selfclosing and self-latching gates, pool motion sensors, window and door alarms.

C is classes. Parents and caregivers should take CPR and first aid training, and swimming courses that are available for both children

and adults.

No drinking and put away that cell phone. Keep your attention at all times on the children.

Visit http://www.poolsafely.gov for more drowning prevention and safety tips.

When adults are paddle boarding, ocean swimming or surfing, make sure you tell someone when you are leaving, when you are returning and your destination.

Contact your local fire department. for more pool safety tips.

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.

EMWD awards environmental services contract for Calle Medusa sewer repair

Joe Naiman

Writer

The Eastern Municipal Water District board approved an environmental services contract for the Calle Medusa sewer and access road emergency repair project.

The board voted 4-0 Wednesday, June 7, with Randy Record absent, to award a $125,000 contract to Helix Environmental Planning Inc. Total appropriations of $202,963, which will fund the project through the bid and award phase, were authorized, and EMWD general

Joe Naiman

Writer

Lee + Ro Inc. has been awarded

the Rancho California Water District contract to design turbine generators at two RCWD facilities.

The RCWD board voted 7-0 June 8 to award Lee + Ro, whose office is in the City of Industry, a $349,920 contract to design in-line turbine generators at the Upper Valle de Los Caballos recharge and recovery facility and on Washington Avenue adjacent to the Elm Street Pump Station and the Santa Rosa Water Reclamation Facility. The turbines will generate hydroelectric power by using flow and water pressure from existing imported and recycled water deliveries.

The Upper Valle de Los Caballos recharge and recovery facility is located in the 42100 block of Winchester Road in Temecula. The facility has two main sources of recharge water: untreated imported water from the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California which is delivered through the Eastern Municipal Water District at Rancho Water’s EM-21 turnout facility and surface water released from Vail Lake which is subject to availability. The UVDC facility has five large percolation ponds which supply the underlying groundwater basin from the water sources and extract the groundwater from onsite and down-gradient wells. The in-line turbine will connect to an existing 48-inch diameter pipeline which delivers the untreated water to the UVDC percolation ponds. Energy generated from the in-line

manager Joe Mouawad or his designee was authorized to execute necessary design contracts or other agreements. The Calle Medusa sewer provides service to approximately 700 residences in the Solana Vista, Tierra Brisa and Saddlewood homeowners association neighborhoods in the City of Temecula.

The sewer alignment originates at Calle Medusa within the homeowners association neighborhoods and crosses undeveloped land adjacent to an unnamed creek before discharging into a sewer

within Nicolas Road. The gravity sewer 10 inches in diameter was installed in 1991.

Recent storms caused erosion and migration of the creek, which impacted the sewer access road and also created the risk of exposing the sewer and creating potential damage. EMWD staff requested an emergency repair project to expedite replacement of the soil and to install riprap which would protect the existing sewer and restore the maintenance access road. The repair work will require

coordination with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Regional Water Quality Control Board, and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife for the necessary permits to support the emergency repair activities. EMWD staff asked Helix Environmental Planning, which is headquartered in La Mesa, for a scope of work and cost estimate to prepare environmental reports and applications and to assist the district with agency consultation. A fee of $125,963 was negotiated. Helix Environmental Planning had previously

been competitively selected for as-needed environmental services, and the company has previously performed environmental services for EMWD emergency repair projects.

A request for proposals for the actual work will be sent to Eastern’s pre-qualified on-call contractors. EMWD staff will return to the board to request approval of that construction contract after obtaining the environmental permits. Joe Naiman can be reached by email at jnaiman@reedermedia. com.

RCWD approves new Rancho Glenoaks

turbine will be used to supply a portion of the energy demands for the wells and future pump station. The annual power savings are estimated at $232,000.

The Santa Rosa Water Reclamation Facility in the 26200 block of Washington Ave. in Murrieta is managed through a joint powers agency which includes the Rancho California Water District, the Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District and the Western Municipal Water District. The facility treats wastewater sludge to make it less toxic. Recycled water is delivered from the facility into an existing pond which supplies water to the Elm Street Pump Station for distribution to recycled water customers. A 12-inch diameter pressure reducing valve from the EMWD connection connects to the existing 16-inch diameter pipeline which feeds the pond. The planned in-line turbine inlet will connect to either the 12-inch diameter piping near the pressure reducing valve or somewhere downstream on the 16-inch diameter pipeline. The annual power savings are estimated at $50,000.

RCWD staff developed a work scope for the preparation of a preliminary design report and final construction drawings for both proposed in-line hydroelectric facilities. A request for proposals was issued April 5. The scope of work includes preparing a preliminary design report to confirm the project ’s feasibility and design considerations for each site including hydraulic and power calculations and recommendations for proposed turbine types

and vendors. It also includes a cost/benefit analysis utilizing existing and anticipated Southern California Edison power rates, the anticipated return on investment, annual power production, utility research and verification (potholing) at points of connection and at all utility crossings, preparation of construction contract documents including plans and specifications for each site, preparation of an engineer’s estimate for the construction cost for each site, bid phase support services and engineering support during construction.

Three consulting firms responded by the May 4 deadline. The California Government Code requires professional services agreements to be awarded based on demonstrated competence and the professional qualifications necessary for t he satisfactory performance of the services required rather solely on the lowest price. Lee + Ro had the middle price proposal but was deemed to be the highest qualified firm. The Lee + Ro proposal demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of the project, a detailed project approach and due diligence with potential in-line hydroelectric equipment vendors.

The proposal performed preliminary energy calculations which estimated avoided energy costs and net revenue generally consistent with RCWD estimates. The in-house project team in the Lee + Ro proposal includes two electrical engineers with a combined 45 years of experience.

The design of the two turbine generators is scheduled to be completed in March 2024.

service agreement

Joe Naiman Writer

The Rancho California Water District board approved a new interagency service agreement with the Eastern Municipal Water District for service of the Rancho Glenoaks area.

The board’s 5-0 vote June 8 approves the new agreement for Rancho Water to convey treated water supplied through Eastern to Rancho Glenoaks. The agreement is for 20 years and revises the cost reimbursement structure of the original agreement which expired this year.

After the domestic wells in the Rancho Glenoaks area failed, the Rancho Glenoaks Homeowners Association petitioned to annex the area into the Eastern Municipal Water District and the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California in 1991. Eastern had no facilities in the area to provide that requested water service, considered potential alternatives, and recommended “wheeling” of MWD water through Eastern’s EM-13 service connection through facilities owned by Rancho Water. An interagency agreement replaced the annexation proposal. The agreement included Rancho Water installing a water service connection including a master meter with Eastern providing the funding for that along with the design and

Answers for puzzle on page B-4

construction of all facilities in the RCWD service area needed to serve Rancho Glenoaks. Eastern agreed to pay Rancho Water for the wholesale water rate Eastern charged for domestic customers, the RCWD energy costs associated with pumping the water to Rancho Water’s 2350 Pressure Zone and the RCWD monthly service charge.

The January 1993 agreement had a term of 30 years with a clause that it would end earlier if Eastern could develop delivery of a domestic water supply directly to the Rancho Glenoaks area. The agreement also noted that if Eastern still didn’t have a water supply system to the area at the end of the 30-year period Eastern and Rancho Water would negotiate a new agreement prior to terminating water service to Rancho Glenoaks. A February 2006 amendment to the agreement addressed buy-in capacity, limitations on service and construction water.

The new agreement will expire in January 2043. The new agreement also adds system operations and maintenance costs and capital facilities cost recovery reimbursement to the wholesale rate, energy costs and monthly service charge Eastern will pay Rancho Water. The additional reimbursement is anticipated to be approximately $35,000 annually.

We

Valley News/Adobe Stock photo

Lee + Ro awarded RCWD turbine generator design contract

Menifee economic development director receives national certification

MENIFEE – The City of Menifee announced that Economic Development Director Gina Gonzalez has been recognized as a certified economic developer by the International Economic Development Council. Menifee is the only city in southwest Riverside County to have a certified economic developer on its staff leading city economic development efforts and strategies.

The certified economic developer is the top designation for the economic development profession in the world and is difficult to achieve. Certification recipients must have at least four years of consecutive full-time economic development-related work experience within the past six years and must also take several professional development courses in varying economic development concentrations to test the skill and proficiency of each candidate. The

final step is a three-part exam that tests against several disciplines including business retention, credit analysis, finance and real estate development and reuse.

“Gina has a proven track record of encouraging quality businesses and projects to come to our community and this achievement further exemplifies her expertise in economic development for our city and region,” City Manager Armando G. Villa said. “From new restaurants and retail to new hotels, corporate headquarters and booming industrial development, Gina and her nationally recognized economic development team, along with Menifee’s award-winning development team, continue to have great success with new business attraction efforts.”

In addition to being a certified economic developer through the IEDC, Gonzalez has also been recognized as one of only 150

accredited california economic developers in California through the California Association for Local Economic Development.

“Earning these accreditations is extremely important for cities as they help to ensure that they remain current on emerging trends, tools, and resources in the economic development industry, while also developing an integral economic development network and enhancing the performance and knowledge in economic development,” Gonzalez said. “I truly value the opportunity to work with our city leadership and local business community to continue growing our robust and thriving economy.”

For more information, visit http://www.menifeebusiness.com or email econdev@cityofmenifee.

us Submitted by the City of Menifee.

Entrepreneurial Resource Center launching in Temecula

SAN BERNARDINO – A distinct new resource to serve as a catalyst for the creation of new businesses and the growth of existing small businesses in southwest Riverside County has been created in the city of Temecula and slated to launch in fall 2023.

The Entrepreneurial Resource Center is the result of a partnership with the Inland Empire Center for Entrepreneurship at California State University San Bernardino, the Riverside County Office of Economic Development and the city of Temecula.

The ERC will be an easily accessible hub for small business training and technical assistance services at the Temecula Valley Entrepreneurs Exchange located in the City of Temecula.

“The ERC in Temecula is exemplary in bringing together public education and local government to support the economic dynamism of our region through the creation of new companies and the growth of existing ventures,” Jack H. Brown College Dean Tomas Gomez-Arias said.

Occupying the entire second floor of the TVE2, the ERC will bring together a wide range of entrepreneurial support organizations to provide a complete set of training, technical assistance, and access to resources for small business owners and entrepreneurs in the city and adjacent communities, Paul Nolta, program director of the IECE Inland Empire Small Business Development Center, said.

“The City of Temecula is thrilled to be a partner and facility host to such a forward-thinking effort,” Temecula Mayor Zak Schwank said. “Small businesses are the backbone of our local economy, and the ERC will raise the bar in providing the utmost in access and availability to partners and resources to help local business in the Temecula Valley grow and thrive.”

The new center will improve access to resources for all aspiring and existing entrepreneurs, increase the rate of business creation, and foster greater success and long-term sustainability for local small businesses. The ERC will also seek to address disparities in small business ownership and entrepreneurship through a deliberate focus and outreach to underrepresented groups in the region, Nolta said.

“Small business growth and entrepreneurship are the past, present and future of Riverside County’s economy,” Riverside County Supervisor Chuck Washington said.

“The county has a long history of supporting innovative programs for our small businesses and the ERC will be a significant asset to those efforts. The ERC is the first center of its kind in the inland region and will create a hub of diverse regional partners working together for business growth.”

The ERC will leverage the longstanding relationship of the three partners, who share a significant commitment to delivering innovative programs and resources that support entrepreneurship in the region.

The IECE, housed at the Jack H. Brown College of Business and Public Administration at CSUSB, is one of the largest university-based centers in the world and has a 20+ year track record of providing business assistance programs, having served more than 173,000 business owners and achieving an economic impact of more than $534 million.

The ERC represents another step in the evolution of the IECE. Already widely regarded as the “go-to” resource for entrepreneurs in the Inland Empire, the new ERC will serve as an anchor for local entrepreneurs seeking the coordinated assistance of more than a dozen varied entities that offer support for those looking to launch or expand a new business. This will include training, technical assistance, funding, marketing and other services needed by owners and managers of new enterprises, Mike Stull, a professor of entrepreneurship and director of the IECE and the CSUSB School of Entrepreneurship, said.

E ach partner is making a significant commitment to ensure the success of the ERC, including the Riverside County Office of Economic Development’s investment of $1.725 million over three years, the IECE is bringing in its major business assistance programs including the Inland Empire Small Business Development Center and Inland Empire Women’s Business Center and the city of Temecula providing more than 10,000 square feet of physical space at the TVE2.

The Inland Empire Center for

Entrepreneurship at California State University San Bernardino is the largest and most experienced organization in the Inland Empire dedicated to supporting small business

and entrepreneurship on campus for the Jack H. Brown College of Business & Public Administration’s see CENTER, page B-8

Temecula State of the City to highlight achievements and future goals

TEMECULA – The Temecula

Valley Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the city of Temecula will host the 2023 State of the City Address Thursday, Aug. 10, from 7-10 a.m. at Pechanga Resort Casino. Mayor Zak Schwank will discuss the current achievements of the city, as well as projections for the forthcoming and future years.

The event will include a Nonprofit Expo with approximately 40 local nonprofit organizations that will advertise their resources. Past years events have hosted over 800 city officials and guests in attendance.

“It is truly an honor to serve Temecula and to be part of a team that places the safety and a high quality of life for all of its residents at the forefront,” Mayor Zak Schwank said. “Our great city has enjoyed 33 wonderful years, and I am confident that 2023 will be another year of growth and progress in which we continue to build upon Temecula’s reputation as an exceptional place

to live, work and play.”

Reservations are $70 per attendee or $650 per corporate table of 10. Registration and sponsorship opportunities can be found at htt ps://bit.ly/40lnx0E. For more information, visit http://www. temecula.org or call 951-676-5090.

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

Follow the Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce on social media: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn.

Submitted by the Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce.

Gina Gonzalez, director of Menifee’s Economic Development Department, is recognized as a certified economic developer by the International Economic Development Council. Valley News/Courtesy photo

Review of all things Real Estate: The slowmotion trainwreck everyone sees coming

Story by Katy O’Donnell

From Politico

As the federal government strives to contain financial market turmoil, the next risk looming over the nation’s banks is in plain sight: the $20 trillion commercial real estate market.

Some $1.5 trillion in mortgages will come due in the next two years, a potential time bomb as higher interest rates and spiraling office vacancies push down property values. And because 70% of bank-held commercial mortgages sit on the balance sheets of regional and smaller lenders, a write-down in commercial loans could spell big trouble for the financial system and spill over into the larger economy.

With the country careening toward a possible recession, the financial system is especially vulnerable to shocks as the turbulence sparked by the collapse of three regional banks showed. Adding a commercial real estate market slide to the mix would be particularly perilous.

“Am I worried? The short answer is yes,” said Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), a senior member of the Senate Banking Committee, “I hope the Federal Reserve and the banking regulators are worried as well, and I hope they won’t be caught flat-footed like they were with the bank failures that we’ve

had so far.”

Chair Jerome Powell has largely downplayed a threat posed by the commercial real estate market, describing the banking system as “strong and resilient.” But FDIC Chair Martin Gruenberg stressed at a May 31 press conference that it’s a significant risk and said his agency is urging lenders to prioritize managing their exposure to the sector

And the Fed itself flagged commercial real estate as an area of concern in its May Financial Stability Report, warning that “the magnitude of a correction in property values could be sizable and therefore could lead to credit losses” by banks and investors holding commercial real estate debt.

“Right now, we have the double whammy of much higher interest rates and the commercial real estate market going through a shock post-Covid,” Sen. Mark Warner (D-Va.) told Politico. “I don’t think we can presume that we’re going to be able to simply glide through without a crash.”

“I have encouraged the White House that we need to do some more intervention on these regional banks right away,” said Warner.

Sen. Elizabeth Warren says regulators have a key role to play in heading off any crisis. They

Pool Home Coming Soon

need to “insist that banks and other lenders appropriately hedge against the risks of a significant downturn in commercial real estate.”

The pandemic-induced rise of remote work has hammered offices. The office vacancy rate hit 18.6% in the first quarter of 2023; well above the pre-pandemic level, according to an estimate from Cushman and Wakefield which doesn’t expect vacancy rates to stabilize until 2024.

“That could be a train wreck waiting to happen,” warned Dan Tarullo, a former top Fed official who overhauled bank regulations in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis. “All you have to do is walk through the downtown of a major American city.”

According to Stijn Van Nieuwerburgh, a Columbia Business School professor of real estate and finance, “The way these loans are structured, you’re mostly paying interest, not principal, so you have to roll over most of the loan when it comes due.”

“Then the bank will say the interest rate is now 6% instead of 3% 10 years ago, which means that your building is now worth 40% lower.”

Van Nieuwerburgh said he wouldn’t be surprised if 10% of commercial real estate loans can’t be refinanced, especially as banks grow more cautious about lending against real estate.

Commercial real estate stocks are down this year: An index of publicly traded commercial real estate investment trusts had fallen 18.1% in a year as of June 2.

Roughly 5.4% of office properties with commercial mortgagebacked securities were managed by special servicers meaning they were in some stage of delinquency in April, up from 3.4% a year before, according to Trepp data.

And because so few commercial buildings are being sold right now, it’s not clear how bad it could get, since there’s uncertainty surrounding how far office property values have fallen.

Commercial mortgage loan originations in the first quarter of 2023 were down 56% from a year before, having fallen 42% from the fourth quarter of 2022, according to MBA.

Sen. Jon Tester (D-Mont.) said he’s not hopeful that the office sector will recover, given the ease of remote work. “We are where we are, it’s going to be this way forever,” he said. “I think the logical solution: We need to develop policies that would help convert commercial to housing, apartments, whatever it might be.”

CENTER from page B-7

Turnkey Senior Home

Buyers may opt into Seven Hills Members Club that includes amenities such as a pool, spa, gym, clubhouse. Offered at $430,000

School of Entrepreneurship, and within the community throughout the Inland Southern California region. Established in 1999, the IECE has served over 173,000 individuals and business owners with comprehensive business counseling, mentoring, innovative training programs and engaging events. These services have resulted in the creation and retention of nearly 42,000 jobs and an economic impact of $534 million. The center is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion and continues to expand its reach to all business owners to support them through the postpandemic repopulation and beyond.

The top-tier segments of the IECE include the Women’s Business Centers at http://IEWBC.org and http:// CVWBC.org, the Small Business Development Center at http://ociesmallbusiness.org and the Cross Border E-Commerce-Asia program at http://cbecasia.com and the Spirit of the Entrepreneur Awards at http:// spiritawardsie.com.

To learn more about IECE and all of the programs available, visit http://entre.csusb.edu.

Submitted by Inland Empire Center for Entrepreneurship.

June 23 – 29, 2023

Murrieta’s Fowler finishes fifth after record breaking start at U.S. Open

JP Raineri

Sports Editor

LOS ANGELES – It might not have been the finish he wanted after his electric opening-round 62, but former Murrieta native Rickie Fowler showed off just about everything during the 123rd U.S. Open that once made him one of the most compelling figures in golf.

Fowler and Xander Schauffele became part of U.S. Open history Thursday, June 15, in a most unfathomable manner. No one had ever shot 62 in the previous 122 editions of golf’s toughest test until they did it some 15 minutes apart.

Rickie made 10 birdies, believed to be a record for most holes under par for any round in the U.S. Open, and can always say he was the first with a 62.

Two groups behind Fowler, who now resides in Florida, Schauffele capped off his 8-under 62 without a bogey on the North course at the Los Angeles Country Club. The U.S. Open had never had more than two players at 65 or better in the opening round. There were six such rounds at LACC.

Fowler’s remarkable round included two bogeys when he missed the green on the 254-yard 11th and missed the fairway on the 17th on his front nine. Starting with

a 15-foot birdie putt on the 18th, he ran off four straight birdies. He set the record with a two-putt from just under 60 feet on the par-5 ninth. They now share the major championship record with Branden Grace, who had a 62 in the third round at Royal Birkdale in the 2017 British Open.

Their record day also came on the 50-year anniversary of Johnny Miller posting the first 63 in U.S. Open history. Since then, five players have shot 63 in a U.S. Open, most recently Tommy Fleetwood in 2018 at Shinnecock Hills.

Fowler once finished in the top five of all four majors, but that was back in 2014. A recent slump has brought about many challenges just to get in them. He was the first alternate last year at Brookline and had to go home without hitting a shot.

“It’s definitely been long and tough,” Fowler, who spoke to the press after his round, said. “It was a lot longer being in that situation than you’d ever want to be, but it makes it so worth it having gone through that and being back where we are now.”

Rickie went back to instructor Butch Harmon in September of last year and has played well enough to get back into the top 50 in the world

Former Murrieta Valley Nighthawk standout Rickie Fowler, pictured here earlier this year, had an opening-round 62 during the 123rd U.S. Open at the Los Angeles Country Club. Valley News/David Canales photo after being in danger of falling out of the top 200 a year ago. Harmon is a renowned golfer and golf teacher, most famous for coaching Tiger Woods from 1993 to 2004. Fowler took at least a share of the lead in each of the final three

rounds this past weekend and was alongside eventual champion Wyndham Clark on the last day, but he ended up five shots back with the worst final round among the top 19 finishers. Wearing his signature orange attire, Fowler would card a

75, finishing in a three-way tie for fifth place. The former Murrieta Valley Nighthawk has played in the final group three times in a major but has yet to claim a trophy.

see FOWLER, page C-2

Temecula resident hits Petco Park with National Anthem on Filipino Heritage Night

JP Raineri Sports Editor

SAN DIEGO – Major League Baseball has been celebrating Filipino Heritage Nights across the country for quite a few years now, which is the annual celebration of Filipino heritage and culture, as saluted by those playing professional baseball. Last week, one local talented member of the Filipino American community got to live out a dream come true when she was selected to sing at Petco Park, delivering the national anthem on Filipino Heritage Night, June 15.

Temecula’s Arlynn Casanada, who, along with her family, are bigtime Padres fans that relish in their Filipino Heritage, was the perfect match when the Padres reached out to her back in April.

“They actually reached out to Pasacat Philippine Dance Company asking if they had anyone to submit for consideration of singing the national anthem for Filipino Heritage Night,” Casanada said. “A friend of mine (since kindergarten), Kathlyn Cancel, is a Pasacat board member and is the

one who approached me asking my permission to submit my video to entertainment liaison Dennis Michael Broussard.”

On April 11, Casanada received the awesome news that the Padres picked her to sing before the game, which took place Thursday, June 15, before they took on the Guardians. And, to make it even more special, the Pasacat Philippine Dance Company were selected to perform for the preshow.

The Casanada family has been embedded in the youth baseball scene for a number of years with both their sons playing through the ranks of the Temecula Youth Baseball Pony League, as well as the Great Oak High School program where their youngest currently plays.

As for singing, Arlynn, who is also a local realtor, has been doing that since she was little, “All because of my parents buying the karaoke machine with 8 tracks,” she laughingly admitted. “Did that age me?”

When asked about the experience, she confessed that she loved the VIP status. “Jesi and Justin of the

the start of

Valley News/Courtesy photos

Pad Squad were so hospitable and accomplished,” she said. “I was so excited that I was allowed to have a ‘plus one’ join me throughout the experience, so, of course I picked my awesome hubby to be my wingman.”

Arlynn and her husband Cedric were born and raised in San Diego, so there is no other team she said she would rather cheer on and sing for. With about 200 friends and family there rooting her on, the experience was surreal she said. With a Sun headpiece created by designer Marharlika, and after sewing her very first Filipiniana blouse to wear and represent the Philippine culture, Arlynn nailed the anthem while wearing red, blue and gold to represent The Philippines flag. The Filipiniana is a traditional outfit, usually with puffy oversize sleeves, a blouse (baro or camisa), a long skirt (saya) and a panuelo (a piece of fabric worn as a head covering or as a scarf around the neck) draped over the shoulders.

“That was the biggest platform I’ve ever performed for with see ANTHEM, page C-3

Temecula’s Arlynn Casanada prepares to sing the national anthem prior to the Padres versus Guardians game Thursday, June 15.

The San Diego Padres Friar gives Temecula’s Arlynn Casanada a hug as she prepares to sing the national anthem for Filipino Heritage Night.

As a part of Filipino Heritage Night, Temecula’s Arlynn Casanada sings the national anthem prior to

the Padres versus Guardians game Thursday, June 15.

Temecula’s McGowan second in Firefighter Demolition Derby Lackey takes fourth with Wagner winning Best Looking Car honor

Joe Naiman Writer SAN DIEGO – Ken McGowan of the Riverside County Fire Department placed second in the Firefighter Demolition Derby on June 11 and was part of the San Diego County Fair. “I’m excited. That’s a great job,” McGowan said.

Kyle Lackey of the Murrieta Fire Department was fourth and said, “It was intense. I didn’t think I was going to make it that far.” Riverside County Fire Department firefighter/paramedic

Tyler Wagner received the BestLooking Car recognition.

In 1995, the Cajon Speedway, the Burn Institute and local fire departments collaborated for an annual night which included fundraising and promotions for the Burn Institute and a Firefighters Destruction Derby, which was renamed the Firefighter Demolition Derby in 2017. The Burn Institute and local firefighters also collaborated on an annual exposition at Qualcomm Stadium.

Cajon Speedway closed after the 2004 season and there was no Derby for five years. In 2010, the Fire and Safety Exposition was moved to the San Diego County Fairgrounds although the configuration of the Del Mar Arena necessitated some changes. The current format has three early afternoon heats with the last two running cars in each heat advancing to the final. Two lastchance heats in the late afternoon allow the final remaining car from each heat to compete in the main event. The driver from the fire department which raises the most money for the Burn Institute is also allowed to drive in the final if he has an operational car.

McGowan and Wagner are

both with Station 61 in Wildomar.

Last year Wagner drove a 1972 Cadillac Sedan de Ville in his Firefighter Demolition Derby driving debut. The car had been in Ramona before Battalion 2 of Station 61 found the car on Craigslist and acquired it. Station 61 acquired the Cadillac in January 2020, but the 2020 San Diego County Fair was not held and the Del Mar Arena was not part of the 2021 fair footprint so the crew, which consisted of 10 firefighters, began transitioning the Cadillac into a demolition derby car in February 2022.

The track is banked, and during last year’s heat Wagner was stuck on a berm near the entrance. A driver is eliminated either when he takes down the flag on his car to signal that he can no longer continue or when he is “timed out” if he has not moved for two minutes. Wagner was unable to move on the surface and took down his flag, putting him into the last chance heat but with no damage to the Cadillac. He then won his last chance qualifier heat which allowed him to compete in the main event. However, the front brakes locked, and the car was stuck in a rut in the dirt, so the main event began without Wagner although the Cadillac remained in suitable shape for this year’s Firefighter Demolition Derby.

“We just had a few things to fix on it,” McGowan said.

The plan was altered when Valley Wide Towing donated a 1964 Chrysler Imperial to the fire department. That allowed Station 61 to have two cars. Wagner took the Imperial and McGowan, who was part of Wagner’s pit crew last year, volunteered to drive the Cadillac. “I thought who would be better to drive it than the engineer of the fire engine?” McGowan said.

Wagner and McGowan are both Temecula Valley High School graduates. Wagner joined the fire service in 2009 with the U.S. Forest Service and has been with the Riverside County Fire Department since 2015.

McGowan has been with the fire service for 12 years; he started as a volunteer with the San Diego County Regional Fire Authority (now the San Diego County Fire Protection District) at Station 69 in Warner Springs and has been with the Riverside County Fire Department for four years.

Lackey is a Murrieta Valley High School graduate who has been in the fire service for 11 years including seven with the Murrieta Fire Department. He began his fire service career with the Riverside County Fire Department’s Station 71 in Palm Desert.

The Murrieta Fire Department had not previously participated in the Firefighter Demolition Derby, but after Lackey learned of the event, a 1993 Buick LeSabre was donated to the fire department. Approximately 10 firefighters spent a couple of months preparing the car for demolition derby status. Because Lackey was the initiator of the fire department’s participation, he received the right to drive the vehicle.

This year, the Riverside County Fire Department was one of five fire departments with two vehicles. The 16 fire departments combined to raise approximately $100,000 for the Burn Institute, with Riverside County providing approximately $7,200 and Murrieta accounting for about $2,600.

“We couldn’t have done it without our sponsors and our pit crew,” Wagner said. “We’ve had the best pit crew around.”

The fans voted by cheer for the Best Looking Car prior to the first heat. Wagner’s Imperial was

selected.

“It’s just a great car,” Wagner said. The 21 drivers were divided into three heats. Wagner was one of seven drivers in the first heat. The Imperial was one of five cars remaining before smoke appeared underneath its hood. Wagner removed his flag.

Lackey and McGowan were in the third heat. After National City firefighter Dan McGuire and Miramar firefighter Justin Fite took down their flags, Lackey and McGowan became the final two survivors from the heat and advanced to the final.

“Just use the rear of the car, that was my strategy, save the front of the car,” Lackey said.

Six drivers, including Wagner, were in the first last chance qualifier. Wagner was the second driver to break his flag, ending his driving activity in the Derby. “It’s all going to a good cause,” he said.

When Nate Diaz of the Coronado Fire Department broke his flag, four cars remained in the final. After Lackey broke his flag, only McGowan, Carlsbad firefighter/ paramedic Matt Newlin and Encinitas firefighter/paramedic Donnie Butz had running cars.

“I was just happy to be at the final and happy to be at the top,” Lackey said.

Newlin’s car stopped responding, so McGowan and Butz became the final two drivers. Smoke appeared underneath McGowan’s hood. He was timed out and Butz won the Firefighter Demolition Derby for the second year in a row.

McGowan suspects the motor was the cause of the car’s failure to operate. “It took some pretty hard hits to the front,” he said. “There wasn’t a whole lot you can do about it.”

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

was available to be caught while he steadily persevered to an even-par 70. Fowler was gracious in Clark’s big moment, hugging his playing partner and telling Clark his late mother would have been proud.

Alas, Fowler still has never won a major, and his only win anywhere since early 2017 was at the 2019 Phoenix Open. Fowler’s game isn’t all the way back, but he’s also a new father with an improved perspective on the game, and life. Last weekend was another sign of revitalization for the player who was once thought to be the future of the sport. Starting at Torrey Pines this past January, he has nine top-15 finishes in his last 12 tournaments, including three straight top 10s as he heads to the Travelers Championship in Connecticut this week.

While he is still waiting for his own chance to celebrate a major with family and friends, he had a legion in the galleries at the U.S. Open, just 90 minutes from his native courses in Murrieta. He also made many friends in Los Angeles by staying after to sign autographs after his rounds.

FOWLER from page C-1

“After the last few years, being in this position, how comfortable I felt this week, this is great,” Fowler said. “As much as it sucks to not be in the position I wanted to be after today, we’re just continuing to build and continuing to move forward.”

Certainly, Fowler capped his comeback from several years of disappointing play with his best result at a major since his runnerup finish at the 2018 Masters and even set a U.S. Open record with 23 birdies over his four rounds at LACC, playing phenomenal golf for long stretches. “I just didn’t have it in the end,”

Fowler said. “Iron play was very below average and didn’t make any (putts). That’s a big thing in majors, especially on a Sunday, making putts and keeping it fairly stress-free. It was kind of the opposite. I was fighting through it all day.” Clark also posted his worst score of the tournament Sunday, and he

“I definitely think we’re heading in the right direction,” Fowler said. “It’s been nice to be back and have chances in tournaments, or at least getting solid finishes. We had a lot of good stuff happen this past weekend.”

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

Rickie Fowler, pictured here earlier this year, finished tied for fifth place at the 123rd U.S. Open at the Los Angeles Country Club. Valley News/David Canales photo

Pit crew and family members join Ken McGowan and Tyler Wagner after the Firefighter Demolition Derby, June 11.

Ken McGowan and the Cadillac after the Firefighter Demolition Derby. Valley News/Joe Naiman photos

Temecula’s Quincee Lilio wins National Championship with Oklahoma California tops list with most softball players in College World Series

JP Raineri Sports Editor

While eight teams qualified for this year’s Women’s College Softball World Series, it all came down to the University of Oklahoma and Florida State for the title. Their best-of-three series started Wednesday, June 7, at the USA Softball Hall of Fame Complex in Oklahoma City, which is widely regarded as the mecca of softball. Oklahoma softball won its third consecutive title, taking Game 2 of the 2023 Women’s College World Series championship series against Florida State, 3-1, Friday June 9.

Although Stanford University was the sole representative from California, the Golden State dominated the tournament in terms of representation and Temecula had their own ties to the series finale as well. Quincee Lilio, a 2021 Great Oak graduate, got to ride the emotional roller coaster with Oklahoma every step of the way.

Lilio, who was a redshirt freshman last year, hit .275 with eleven hits and one home run this season. Other schools with players that made the big tournament and have ties close to the Valley News coverage area included Norco and Santiago.

If you are a player, or coach,

and aspire to compete for the championship, it would be wise to recruit talent from California. Each of the eight participating programs in the final tournament featured at least one former California player. Florida State, who were hoping to end the Sooners’ three-peat chances only had one California alumna, and is coached by Loni Alameda, who played her high school softball at Oak Ridge (El Dorado Hills, Calif.). Ten California high schools have two or more players who competed in this year’s tournament as Los Alamitos and O’Connor (Phoenix) each have three players.

Overall, the Women’s Softball College World Series had 50 players competing in Oklahoma City that played prep ball in California, including these players from LA, San Diego and Riverside County:

Giulia Koutsoyanopulos, Capistrano Valley (Mission Viejo)

— Tennessee

SilentRain Espinoza, Christian (El Cajon) — Washington

Ella Nadeau, Citrus Valley (Redlands) — Stanford

Hannah Coor, Esperanza (Anaheim) — Oklahoma

Julia Jimenez, Etiwanda — Utah

Madison Huskey, Gahr (Cerritos)

— Washington Quincee Lilio, Great Oak

Temecula’s Quincee Lilio, a 2021 graduate of Great Oak, won a NCAA Softball National Championship with Oklahoma Friday, June 9.

(Temecula)— Oklahoma

Aly Kaneshiro, Hart (Newhall)

— Stanford

Jordyn Gasper, Hart — Utah

Shelbi Ortiz, Huntington Beach

— Utah

Jadelyn Allchin, Huntington

Beach — Washington

Lair Beautae, JW North (Riverside) — Tennessee

Claire Timm, Kennedy (La Palma) — Oklahoma State

Hailee White, King (Riverside)

— Utah

Leilani Melendez, La Mirada

— Utah

Kendall Lundberg, Lakewood

— Utah

Sophia Nugent, Los Alamitos —

Oklahoma

Sarah Ladd, Los Alamitos —

Utah

Aliya Belarde, Los Alamitos —

Utah

Kinzie Hansen, Norco — Oklahoma

Abby Dayton, Norco — Utah

Allison Morikawa, Northwood (Irvine) — Stanford

Brooklyn Carter, Notre Dame (Sherman Oaks) — Washington

Grace Green, Oakdale —

Oklahoma

Sydney Sandez, Olympian (Chula Vista) — Utah

Alyssa Brito, Pacifica (Garden

Grove) — Oklahoma

Sydney Steele, Poway —

Stanford

Rylie West, Roosevelt (Eastvale)

— Tennessee

Cydney Sanders, San Marcos —

Oklahoma

Stella Bennett, Santiago (Corona) — Utah

Kaylah Nelsen, Santiago

(Corona) — Utah

McKenna Gibson, Saugus —

Tennessee

Grace Keene, Saugus —

Tennessee

Avery Weisbrook, South

Valley News/Courtesy photos

(Torrance) — Florida State

Tiare Jennings, St. Anthony (Long Beach) — Oklahoma

Zaida Puni, St. Anthony’s (Long Beach) — Tennessee

Kyra Chan, Torrey Pines (San Diego) — Stanford

Emily Capobianco, Upland — Utah

Ally Shipman, Valencia — Alabama

Kylie Chung, Westlake (Westlake Village) — Stanford

Emily Jones, Westlake — Stanford

Brooklyn Carreon, Whittier

Christian (La Habra) — Utah

Kaitlyn Lim, Woodbridge (Irvine) — Stanford

Complete info from the 2023 College Softball World Series can be found online at www.ncaa.com/ championships/softball/d1

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

Live MMA fights take place courtesy of Dan Henderson’s Fight Night 12

JP Raineri

Sports Editor

Hendo’s Fight Night 12 took place Friday, June 16, with 10 fights at Dan Henderson’s Athletic Fitness Center. Country Singer Coffey Anderson was in attendance and got the night started by singing the national anthem. Also set to make appearances during the evening was the man himself, UFC legend Dan Henderson, as well as UFC fighters Joe Stevenson, Jared Vanderaa, Ashley Yoder and Farid and Javid Basharat. Also there was Amir Albazi, who just won the UFC main event two weekends ago and was there to corner his little brother that was fighting on the card, and MMA fighter/Tik Tok-er Jarred “Bear” Fiorda. Results from the event were not reported prior to this article going to print, but will be made available online.

Dan Henderson’s Athletic Fitness Center is located at 27901 Jefferson Avenue in Temecula. Hendo Sports Management is owned and operated by Dan Henderson. HSM assists and manages the fighters from the gym as well as Team Quest. JP Raineri can be reached by email at sports@reedermedia.com

ANTHEM from page C-1

the biggest audience,” she said. “When I did my very first sound check, my knees were trembling.” I was anxious, nervous and excited all at the same time. I was very grateful for this opportunity to represent my Filipino heritage and my hometown of San Diego. I’m especially thankful to all my friends and family that came to support me, which included some that were Dodger fans.”

As for the game, the Padres fell to Cleveland 8-6, but not without some early fireworks when Manny Machado launched a three-run homer in the first inning. Unfortunately, the Padres were unable to overcome an early 5-0 deficit. San Diego, which had won five of six, was looking for its first three-game sweep this season. Going into this week, the Padres (35-36) are 7.5 games back from first place and will be on the road to face San Francisco.

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

Former Great Oak standout Quincee Lilio hit .275 with eleven hits and one home run for Oklahoma this season en route to a National Championship.

Cole “the grappling cowboy” Lunde, blue headgear, fighting out of Henderson kicks his opponent during a recent bout in Temecula.

Valley News/Action Captures Media Group photos

Sarah Valencia, red tape, lands a punch to the head of Ariel Zeigler during their bout at Hendo’s Fight Night 12.

Tod Stafford, red corner, fighting out of Dan Henderson’s AFC, defeated Kevin Stark by knockout.

Cody Watson, blue corner, and Billy McNair grapple during their recent bout at Dan Henderson’s Athletic Fitness Center in Temecula Friday, June 16.

Lawrence Petway, red corner, and Yassin Saededdin exchange punches during their bout at Hendo’s Fight Night 12.

Joshua Cervantes, red corner, and Devin Gallardo go toe-to-toe during their bout Friday, June 16, at Hendo’s Fight Night 12 in Temecula.

Soboba Tribal Preschool kindergartners are promoted

Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians Special to the Valley News

The Soboba Sports Complex gymnasium was filled with excitement as family members waited for kindergarten students from the Soboba Tribal Preschool to enter the room Monday, June 5. Before that moment arrived, a slideshow featuring all 21 youngsters in their caps and gowns followed by group photos of them in classroom activities was punctuated by cheers and applause.

After the children were seated on the stage, teacher Laura Aldrete welcomed families and friends to the kindergarten class of 2023 celebration.

“First, we would like to thank Tribal Council for helping and supporting our kindergarten,” Aldrete said. “Thank you to all of our families for their love, support and encouragement. We would like to thank the staff and the teachers. This year has been one to remember but we made it.”

Even though Aldrete and teacher’s aide Mayra Barrientos were only with the class for the past couple of months, due to personnel changes, they said it was a privilege to have worked with such an amazing group of kindergartners.

“Ms. Mayra and I wish the kindergarten class all the best in their new journey and what awaits them,” Aldrete said. “We know you will achieve great things because we know you can.”

Students who completed kindergarten and are headed off to first grade in the fall include Penelope Alcala, Aaron Arenas, Joseph Bentiste, Xwáyish Briones, Demi Cervantes, Jena Davis, Freddie Duran, Koba LindseyGallardo, Manalice Garcia, Zeppelin Godinez, Liam Grant, Charlie Mae Hunter, Nikolas Lara, Luciano Marquez, Hailey Medina, Mila Nunez, Notóomo Salgado, Samuel Shaheen, Journey Silvas, Kenai Silvas and River Valenzuella.

Preschool Director Donovan Post welcomed everyone to the ceremony. He thanked families for choosing to enroll their children at the school and for supporting them and the school throughout the year and thanked staff for all their efforts.

“Our number one goal was to be here for these kids day in and day out,” he said. “I’d also like to thank Sierra Vivanco who was our kindergarten teacher at the start of the year. She worked with us for a few years, and she did an amazing job. We appreciate all the efforts that she gave to us during the time she was with us this year.

Ms. Laura and Ms. Mayra are an amazing team that have stepped

up and taken over so now we have a great foundation for how everything can be better in the future.”

Wayne Nelson provided a blessing and with the Intertribal Bird Singers invited the children to join in during two social songs.

Young boys played gourd rattles they had made earlier in the school year and many of the young girls were wearing bird skirts under their graduation gowns that Noli Indian School students had helped them create.

The class performed a song about how they had learned to read, write, listen, tie their shoes and be kind to friends this past year. Then each student was called to the front of the stage to receive their diploma and a personalized certificate to showcase what made them shine. Their favorite memories and future plans were also shared. Some aspire to be superheroes and others are looking to become firefighters or police officers.

Not surprisingly, most students cited playing with friends outdoors or in the classroom as their favorite

memory about school. Some said they enjoyed the bus rides they took to the Soboba Sports Complex for special events throughout the school year and several others said doing their homework was their favorite part of school.

Graduates and their individual accolades are Penelope, Rockstar Reader; Aaron, All-Star Athlete; Joseph, Master Mathematician; Xwáyish, Perfect Penmanship; Demi, Fabulous Friend; Jena, Future Teacher; Freddie, Loyal Listener; Koba, Thoughtful Thinker; Manalice, Delightful Dancer; Zeppelin, Spectacular Scissor Skills; Liam, Handy Helper; Charlie Mae, Stellar Smile; Nikolas, Incredible Illustrator; Luciano, Splendid Storyteller; Hailey, Numbers Ninja; Mila, Alphabet Ninja; Notóomo, Outstanding Observer; Samuel, Technology Wiz; Journey, Happy Heart Hero; Kenai, Enthusiastic Explorer, and River, Incredible Imagination. Gloria Vivanco had a front-row seat to watch her great-grandson Aaron Arenas graduate from kindergarten. With two children

and seven grandchildren, Vivanco said Aaron is the oldest of her 11 great grandchildren, with three more babies expected soon.

Soboba Elder Alice Helms watched her great-great-granddaughter Manalice Garcia receive her diploma and be laden with balloons and plush toys by many family members after the ceremony.

Soboba Tribal Preschool Office Manager Amber Lopez said if she had one word to use to describe this year’s class, it would be perseverance.

“They had a lot of changes this year and still came out on top. I am very proud of them for all their hard work and focus,” she said. “I will miss my morning chats with them as I walked them down the hall to their classrooms; it was one of the many highlights of my day. I wish them all the happiness and success for their future.”

MSJC culinary arts instructor serves up food and fun with a focus on regenerative practices

She received the honor during a ceremony Monday, March 27. Her farm-to-table eatery serves up meals with a “food as medicine” focus.

As part of her instruction through MSJC’s Adult Education program, Di Bernardo teaches whole systems theory and agile food systems. Whole systems theory is an approach to creating long-term sustainability and profitability that considers issues like reducing greenhouse gases and protection of water quality and habitats. The agile food systems approach focuses on creating flexible and sustainable food systems that can withstand disruptions.

SAN JACINTO – There’s more to Leah Di Bernardo’s culinary arts class at Mt. San Jacinto College than lectures, reading and recipes. Di Bernardo serves up lessons about what farm-to-table means for people and the planet.

To close the spring semester, Di Bernardo took her class to Perennial Pastures in Santa Ysabel located in San Diego County for hands-on education in regenerative practices, what “grass fed” on a label really means and how delicious a meal becomes when prepared with locally sourced foods. The students hiked the sprawling ranch, observed the cattle and grazing practices and sat at tables under the towering oaks for a delicious farm-to-table beef

stew, arugula salad and homemade bread.

Student Rebecca Stewart-Wilson of Menifee said the visit to Perennial Pastures showed her the importance of proper feeding, grazing and care of the animals and the health benefits of food grown from using regenerative farming practices.

“Individuals who are trying to stay in a healthy body are interested in knowing what’s going into their body,” Stewart-Wilson said. “It’s good to know and makes us wiser in choosing what we eat.”

Di Bernardo, founder and chef of Extraordinary Artisan Table, or E.A.T. Marketplace, in Temecula, was named this year’s Citizen of the Year by the Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce.

Di Bernardo is helping to develop whole systems concepts further at MSJC as a member of an MSJC advisory group that is currently in development on a regenerative agriculture program at the college. Collaborating with other MSJC instructors and the MSJC Foundation, the advisory group is exploring an interdisciplinary program that would bring together studies that include environmental sciences, culinary arts and business.

Mt. San Jacinto College, a California Community College, serves 25,000 students annually in a district covering 1,700 square miles from the San Gorgonio Pass to Temecula. Follow MSJC on social media – Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Submitted

Kindergartners wearing beaded mortar boards wait for their commencement ceremony to begin at the Soboba Sports Complex Monday, June 5. Valley News/Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians photos

Kindergarten students Aaron Arenas, Joseph Bentiste and Xwáyish Briones look for family members in the audience at the Soboba Sports Complex after taking the stage.

Alice Helms celebrates with her great-great-granddaughter Manalice Garcia after she receives her diploma.

Notóomo Salgado is pretty in pink as she shows her diploma to family members at the class of 2023 kindergarten commencement ceremony.

Pat Placencia poses with his grandson Liam Grant after the youngster received his diploma.

by Mt. San Jacinto College.

Leah Di Bernardo, instructor for Mt. San Jacinto College’s culinary class and chef at E.A.T. Marketplace in Temecula, is a member of an MSJC advisory group that is currently in development on a regenerative agriculture program to be offered at the college. Valley News/MSJC photos

Leah Di Bernardo, Mt. San Jacinto College culinary arts instructor and chef at E.A.T. Marketplace in Temecula, talks to students in her class about the importance of regenerative agriculture practices and the relationship to healthy foods.

Students in Mt. San Jacinto College’s culinary class are treated to a home cooked meal prepared by Perennial Pastures that featured grass-fed beef from the ranch, arugula salad and homemade bread.

Highway Update

Caltrans begins Idyllwild road project and announces a major Highway 74 Improvement in Hemet

Tony Ault Staff Writer

Beginning next week, Idyllwild and Pine Cove residents will see the beginning of California Department of Transportation begin work on the $470,000 emergency project to rehabilitate and repave State Route 243 within the boundaries of Mount Jacinto State Park.

SEMA Construction of San Diego was awarded the project sought by the local residents. Crews will be working on SR-243 from just south of North Circle Drive to just north of Pine Crest Avenue. Construction begins on June 26. Hours of operation will be Monday through Friday from

6 a.m. to 4 p.m. Crews will be paving the roadway and replacing the pavement delineator markers and striping.

Motorists can expect oneway traffic control with flagging throughout the construction zone. Use caution and follow all instructions from flagging officers for safe passage. The California Highway Patrol will be on scene to assist with traffic control and safety. Speeds will be reduced by 10 mph in the project parameters.

Hemet

Another huge Caltrans project announced this week will be a $51.6 million corridor improvement project on State Route 74 otherwise known as Florida Ave in Hemet which will begin July 24. The project will

repave and rehabilitate 49 lane miles, install Traffic Management Systems, upgrade curb ramps, sidewalks and driveways to Americans with Disabilities Act standards, enhance bike lane signage and striping, and upgrade 29 bus pads within the project parameters. Weather permitting. The project was awarded to Griffith Company of Brea. Crews will be working in and near Hemet on SR-74 from Winchester Road to Fairview Avenue with a project length of 11.2 miles. Work will occur Monday through Friday from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m., with occasional weekend work. SR-74 will remain open for the duration of the project. One-way flagging operations will be primarily during the nighttime along with temporary signals

operating 24/7 at various locations. Expect delays up to 15 minutes.

There will be intermittent, short term closures for equipment relocation and construction staging purposes. No long term closures are planned. Be advised, speed limits will be reduced by 10 mph throughout the construction zone. San Jacinto This project in the Hemet and San Jacinto area accompanies a continuing Caltrans project that is winding down. The safety project was to construct a median concrete barrier and rumble strips on State Route 79 near San Jacinto. Weather and temperature dependent.

Monday through Friday 7 p.m. to 5 a.m. All lanes have been moved back to their original locations. The left hand turn lanes

at Ramona Expressway have also been opened. Remaining work will require inside and outside (alternating) lane closures and shoulder closures for completion of newly installed guardrail system, installation of dike, rumble strips, roadway signage and pavement delineators, in both directions. At least one lane will remain open in each direction at all times. Use caution. CHP will be on site to assist with traffic safety. Watch for signage alerting motorists of upcoming construction locations and remember to reduce your speed in and surrounding the work zone. Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com

Bill to give jobless benefits to foreigners prompts debate over cost, equity

Paul J. Young City News Service

RIVERSIDE (CNS) –

A bill seeking to provide unemployment benefits to noncitizens in California will ensure that “excluded workers” have access to compensation to which they’re entitled, according to a Riverside County lawmaker, while an opponent of the measure counters it will expand the state’s “failing unemployment insurance program” when there’s no money for it.

Senate Bill 227, the Excluded Workers Program, was ratified by the state Senate at the end of May and is now under consideration by the Assembly Committee on Insurance.

Sen. Maria Durazo, D-Los Angeles, authored the bill, saying

“California’s economy suffers by excluding undocumented workers from the (unemployment insurance) program.”

“Immigrant workers make up a significant percentage of workers in many of the industries that experienced the highest rates of joblessness and low wages predating COVID-19,” Durazo wrote. “Without the support of essential safety net programs, like unemployment insurance, many immigrant families are forced to exhaust their savings ... and compromise their health and safety to afford basic necessities.”

Assemblyman Eduardo Garcia, D-Coachella, is among the chief backers of SB 227.

“Access to unemployment benefits can make all the difference in a family affording rent and food to feed their children,”

Cal Fire’s Hemet Ryan-Air Attack Base houses ‘exclusive use’ firefighting helicopter

PERRIS – The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, known as Cal Fire, entered an exclusive-use contract that strategically places multiple “EU” helicopters throughout the state to assist with the anticipated surge in fire activity Friday, June 16. These helicopters are owned by private vendors and provide aircraft that meet a forecasted demand and fill a unique role or mission set.

This year, helicopter “ThreeSeven-Sierra” will be based out of Hemet-Ryan Air Attack Base and will be available to assist firefighters in combating wildfires. “Three-Seven-Sierra” is a Sikorsky S-64 – more commonly referred to as a “Skycrane,” and has a tank mounted to the belly of the helicopter that can deliver

more than 2,000 gallons of water per drop.

“Having access to these additional firefighting aircraft significantly aid the Department in meeting its goal of keeping 95% of fires contained at 10 acres or less,”

Dave Rodriguez, battalion chief of Cal Fire’s Hemet-Ryan Air Attack Base, said. “In addition to our air base’s aerial firefighting fleet, the S-64 will be beneficial in slowing the spread of dangerous wildland fires and keeping Riverside County residents, visitors and our firefighters safe.”

The exclusive-use helicopter at Hemet-Ryan Air Attack Base will be on contract for a minimum 90 days and may be extended, based on wildland fire activity in the region.

Submitted by Riverside County.

County’s jobless rate rises marginally in May

City News Service

Special to Valley News

Despite some gains in various sectors of the regional economy, Riverside County’s unemployment rate rose slightly last month, according to figures released by the California Employment Development Department.

The countywide jobless rate in May, based on preliminary EDD estimates, was 4.4%, compared to 4.2% in April.

According to figures, the May rate was a full percentage point higher than the year-ago level, when countywide unemployment stood at 3.4%.

An estimated 50,200 county residents were recorded as out of work in May, and 1,091,600 were employed, according to EDD.

Mecca had the highest unemployment rate countywide last month at 10.8%, followed by Coachella at 8.5%, Cherry Valley at 8%, Hemet at 6.4% and Rancho Mirage at 6.2%.

The combined unemployment

rate for Riverside and San Bernardino counties (the Inland Empire) in May was also 4.4%, up from 4.1% in April, according to figures.

Bi-county data indicated payrolls expanded by the widest margin in the construction sector, which added 3,400 positions.

Additional gains were recorded in the agricultural, financial services, hospitality, government, professional business services and transportation sectors, which altogether grew by an aggregate 5,000 jobs.

Miscellaneous unclassified industries added another 800 positions.

Payrolls declined in the manufacturing sector, which shed a total 400 jobs. The information technology, health services and mining sectors were unchanged, officials said.

Data showed that the statewide non-seasonally-adjusted unemployment rate in May was 4.5%.

Garcia told City News Service.

“Our immigrant communities are Californians, who contribute millions to our unemployment program and economy.” SB 227 calls for providing up to $300 a week, for a maximum of 20 weeks, to those workers who cannot provide proof of U.S. citizenship, nor documentation establishing lawful residency, but can show that they were in the California labor market for a minimum of 93 hours in a given three-month period, receiving $5,200 in gross wages.

Applicants for benefits under the program could exercise a number of options to show they were employed, including wage statements, tax returns, direct deposit confirmation slips, parking receipts for a specific work site, supervisors’ testimonials, “emails, text messages, social media messages or other written communications relating to delivery orders sheets (and) work schedules,” according to the legislation.

The bill would prohibit the Employment Development Department from inquiring about an applicant’s immigration status or retaining any records beyond the term required for the duration of benefits payments.

“California is a broke state with a $32 billion budget deficit,”

Sen. Brian Jones, R-Escondido, leader of the California Senate Republican Caucus, told CNS. “On top of that, we already owe the federal government $17 billion in unemployment insurance debt from COVID. This disastrous new policy (SB 227) is ripe with loopholes for fraud.”

Members of the caucus include Sens. Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh, R-Beaumont and Kelly Seyarto, R-Murrieta. Ochoa Bogh abstained from voting and declined to comment on the bill. Seyarto joined Jones in voting against it but did not respond to requests for comment.

Sen. Richard Roth, D-Riverside, voted in favor but did not respond to requests for comment.

The bill dovetails with other “sanctuary state” measures intended to facilitate foreign nationals’ access to benefits administered by California agencies, including the California Food Assistance Program, the California Dream Act, Healthy California and some Medi-Cal provisions.

“This policy is not the message our state or country needs to be sending to those seeking to illegally enter,” Jones said. “We

are essentially saying, ‘Come to California, get free money for not working.’ Now is not the time to further expand our failing unemployment insurance program. California is facing countless issues from homelessness to crime to affordability. We should be ... using our precious tax-dollar resources for people lawfully in California.”

According to Garcia, the issue is not workers’ immigration status, but whether they should enjoy equal access to jobless benefits. “These excluded workers deserve and have earned access to unemployment relief,” he said. “This measure is vital to ensuring the wellbeing of our entire economy. We are all impacted.”

Senate analyses of SB 227 did not address the potential for fraud and its costs. EDD disbursed an estimated $32 billion in response to fraudulent unemployment benefits claims during the COVID public health lockdowns, according to published reports.

The Excluded Workers Program is intended to run on a trial basis until Jan. 1, 2027. Annual administrative costs are projected to run between $40 million and $54 million, while payouts to claimants could reach $330 million annually, according to the EDD.

Lee + Ro to design Matthews and Romoland Booster Station

Joe Naiman Writer

The Eastern Municipal Water District will be constructing a dual booster station at the intersection of Ethanac Road and Antelope Road in Menifee, and Lee + Ro Inc., was given the design contract for the Matthews and Romoland Booster Station.

The EMWD board voted 4-0 June 7, with Randy Record absent, to award Lee + Ro a $1,622,905 contract for the design work. The board also authorized EMWD general manager Joe Mouawad or his designee to execute other necessary contracts and agreements for final design of the Matthews and Romoland Booster Station and appropriated a total of $2,023,915 to fund the project costs through the completion of the final design and bid award phases.

The dual booster station will consist of the Matthews Booster Station and the Romoland Booster Station on EMWD-owned land. The Matthews Booster Station will accommodate water system demand growth and improvements in fire flow capacity within the 1720 Longview Pressure Zone.

The existing Romoland Booster Station presents challenges for EMWD operations and maintenance personnel both because it is approaching the end of its useful life and because it is partially below grade. The new Romoland Booster Station will replace the existing station and will serve the 1627 Perris Valley Pressure Zone.

The $98,000 cost to commence initial planning, develop a scope of work and conduct property research and appraisals for the

replacement of the Romoland Booster Station was low enough that the expense could be approved administratively rather than requiring board action. That amount was authorized in April

2015. A Jan. 2017 board action authorized an additional $193,000 for preliminary design and an Aug. 2017 board vote authorized $578,000 for the purchase of two parcels located near the existing Romoland Booster Station. This was to provide sufficient space for the relocation of the Romoland Booster Station and also allow the co-location of the Matthews Booster Station. A July 2020 board action authorized a $428,000 contract with Krieger & Stewart Inc., for preliminary design services and authorized a total of $635,200 to fund the project costs through completion of the preliminary design phase.

EMWD staff issued a request for proposals for final design engineering services on Feb. 21. Three companies submitted bids. The California Government Code requires professional services agreements to be awarded based on demonstrated competence and the professional qualifications necessary for the satisfactory performance of the services required rather on the lowest price. Lee + Ro, whose office is in the City of Industry, had both the lowest bid amount and the highest ranking. The evaluation panel noted that Lee + Ro understood the project well, provided an approach for potential added efficiencies, had a realistic schedule which still had the shortest duration, and had experience in delivering similar booster pumping station facilities. The actual fee proposal

included a base fee and optional tasks, and a fee of $1,622,905 was negotiated with Lee + Ro which is commensurate with the necessary level of effort.

The Lee + Ro scope of work includes project management, data gathering and analysis, preliminary design review and refinement, field investigations, cathodic protection design, hydraulic evaluation and surge analysis, electrical design, acoustical analysis, permitting support, final design, preparation of contract documents including plans and specifications along with a cost estimate, bidding support, and updating engineering booster station design guidelines.

The subconsultant tasks will have Leighton Consulting of Temecula handling geotechnical engineering activities, Cozad & Fox of Hemet performing the surveying work, ABC Acoustics of La Jolla conducting acoustical analyses, BOA Architecture of Long Beach providing architectural design, Converse Consultants of Rancho Cucamonga undertaking the hazardous materials testing, NUVIS Landscape Architecture of Newport Beach addressing landscape architecture tasks, RF Yeager Engineering of El Cajon being used for corrosion engineering services, Underground Solutions of Escondido taking care of potholing work and West Yost of Davis responsible for cybersecurity and for the hydraulic analysis.

A document meeting California Environmental Quality Act requirements will be prepared once enough information becomes available to identify potential impacts.

Deep-sea craft carrying 5 people to Titanic wreckage reported missing, search underway

Ben Finley and Holly Ramer

Associated Press

A rescue operation was underway deep in the waters of the Atlantic Ocean on Monday in search of a technologically advanced submersible vessel carrying five people to document the wreckage of the Titanic, the iconic ocean liner that sank more than a century ago.

The vessel was reported overdue Sunday night, June 18, about 435 miles (700 kilometers) south of St. John’s, Newfoundland, according to Canada’s Joint Rescue Coordination Centre in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Lt. Cmdr. Len Hickey said a Canadian Coast Guard vessel and military aircraft were assisting the search effort, which was being led by the U.S. Coast Guard in Boston.

Rear Adm. John Mauger, a commander for the U.S. Coast Guard, said additional resources would arrive in the coming days.

“It is a remote area — and it is a challenge to conduct a search in that remote area,” he said. “But we are deploying all available assets to make sure we can locate the craft and rescue the people on board.”

According to the Coast Guard, the craft submerged Sunday morning, and its support vessel, the Canadian research icebreaker Polar Prince, lost contact with it about an hour and 45 minutes later.

The Polar Prince will continue to do surface searches throughout the evening and Canadian Boeing P-8 Poseidon reconnaissance aircraft will resume their surface and subsurface search in the morning, the Coast Guard reported on Twitter.

The submersible was operated by OceanGate Expeditions.

David Concannon, an adviser to OceanGate, said the submersible had a 96-hour oxygen supply starting at roughly 6 a.m. Sunday. In an email to The Associated Press, Concannon said he was supposed to be on the dive but could not go due to another client matter. He said officials were working to get a remotely operated vehicle that can reach a depth of 3.7 miles (6 kilometers) to the site as soon

as possible.

OceanGate’s expeditions

to the Titanic wreck site include archaeologists and marine biologists. The company also brings people who pay to come along, known as “mission specialists.” They take turns operating sonar equipment and performing other tasks in the five-person submersible.

The Coast Guard said Monday that there was one pilot and four “mission specialists” aboard.

OceanGate said its focus was on those aboard and their families.

“We are deeply thankful for the extensive assistance we have received from several government agencies and deep sea companies in our efforts to reestablish contact with the submersible,” it said in a statement.

British businessman on board British businessman Hamish Harding, who lives in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, was one of the mission specialists, according to Action Aviation, a company for which Harding serves as chairman. The company’s managing director, Mark Butler, told the AP that the crew set out on Friday.

“There is still plenty of time to facilitate a rescue mission, there is equipment on board for survival in this event,” Butler said. “We’re all hoping and praying he comes back safe and sound.”

Harding is a billionaire adventurer who holds three Guinness World Records, including the longest duration at full ocean depth by a crewed vessel.

In March 2021, he and ocean explorer Victor Vescovo dived to the lowest depth of the Mariana Trench. In June 2022, he went into space on Blue Origin’s New Shepard rocket.

Harding was “looking forward to conducting research” at the Titanic site, said Richard Garriott de Cayeux, the president of The Explorers Club, a group to which Harding belonged.

“We all join in the fervent hope that the submersible is located as quickly as possible,” he said in a statement.

The expedition was OceanGate’s third annual voyage to chronicle the deterioration of Titanic, which struck an iceberg and sank in 1912, killing all but about 700 of the roughly

2,200 passengers and crew. Since the wreckage’s discovery in 1985, it has been slowly succumbing to metaleating bacteria. Some have predicted the ship could vanish in a matter of decades as holes yawn in the hull and sections disintegrate.

The initial group of tourists in 2021 paid $100,000 to $150,000 apiece to go on the trip. OceanGate’s website had described the “mission support fee” for the 2023 expedition as $250,000 a person.

Unlike submarines that leave and return to port under their own power, submersibles require a ship to launch and recover them. OceanGate hired the Polar Prince to ferry dozens of people and the submersible craft to the North Atlantic wreck site. The submersible would make multiple dives in one expedition.

The expedition was scheduled to depart from St. John’s, Newfoundland, in early May and finish up at the end of June, according to documents filed by the company in April with a U.S. District Court in Virginia that oversees Titanic matters.

CBS journalist David Pogue, who went on the trip last year, noted his vessel got turned around looking for the Titanic. No GPS on board

“There’s no GPS underwater, so the surface ship is supposed to guide the sub to the shipwreck by sending text messages,” Pogue said in a segment aired on CBS Sunday Morning. “But on this dive, communications somehow broke down. The sub never found the wreck.”

The submersible, named Titan, is capable of diving 2.4 miles (4 kilometers) “with a comfortable safety margin,” OceanGate said in its court filing.

It weighs 20,000 pounds (9,072 kilograms) in the air, but is ballasted to be neutrally buoyant once it reaches the seafloor, the company said.

The Titan is made of “titanium and filament wound carbon fiber” and has proven to “withstand the enormous pressures of the deep ocean,” OceanGate stated. OceanGate told the court that Titan’s viewport is “the largest of any deep diving

This undated photo provided by OceanGate Expeditions in June 2021 shows the company’s Titan submersible. On Monday, June 19, 2023, a rescue operation was underway deep in the Atlantic Ocean in search of the technologically advanced submersible vessel carrying five people to document the wreckage of the Titanic, the iconic ocean liner that sank more than a century earlier. (OceanGate Expeditions via AP, File) submersible” and that its technology provides an “unrivaled view” of the deep ocean.

In a May 2021 court filing, OceanGate said the Titan had an “unparalleled safety feature” that assesses the integrity of the hull throughout every dive.

At the time of the filing, Titan had undergone more than 50 test dives, including to the equivalent depth of the Titanic, in deep waters off the Bahamas and in a pressure chamber, the company said.

Past battery issue

During its expedition in 2022, OceanGate reported that the submersible had a battery issue on its first dive, and had to be manually attached to its lifting platform, according to a November court filing.

“In the high sea state, the submersible sustained modest damage to its external components and OceanGate decided to cancel the second mission for repairs and operational enhancements,” the filing stated.

More missions, however, followed. The company reported that 28 people visited the wreck site last year.

Experts said Monday that rescuers face steep challenges.

Alistair Greig, a professor of

Gavin Newsom poised to run for president, timing unclear

“I think everybody believes Newsom is full-court press positioning himself,” he told The Epoch Times.

LaMalfa certainly sounded similar to California Assembly Republican Leader James Gallagher.

“How could any Democrat not see that there’s a problem with Joe?” said Gallagher, who told The Epoch Times in a June 12 interview that Newsom is “working overtime” to ensure that he’s the natural replacement should Biden drop out.

Gov. Gavin Newsom speaks at a news conference in Oakland, Oct. 27. Newsom cruised to an easy victory in the June 7 California State Primary. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu, File)

Nathan Worcester

The Epoch Times

California Gov. Gavin Newsom could be setting himself up for a 2024 presidential run, but a bid in this election cycle is far from guaranteed.

That was what multiple high-level politicians in California told The Epoch Times.

“He’s certainly running a shadow campaign right now to be in position,” said Rep. Doug LaMalfa (R-Calif.) in an interview with The Epoch Times on June 13.

“I think they’re just trying to keep the options open for if and when [President Joe] Biden blows up,” he continued.

Newsom pledged he wouldn’t contest the 2024 presidential nomination with Biden, according to November 2022 reporting from Politico. That leaves open the possibility of a Newsom run if Biden is out of the picture before November 2024.

“I don’t see when I look at their bench a whole lot of options,”

LaMalfa added, saying he did not consider Vice President Kamala Harris or Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg particularly viable.

LaMalfa said there’s “speculation” that Harris will be pushed out of the vice president slot in the upcoming election, potentially opening up another avenue for Newsom to enter the Oval Office.

LaMalfa said he believes his perspective is similar to that of other political insiders in California.

“He [Newsom] is doing these nationwide campaigns. He’s going to other states. He’s going on Sean Hannity … Those are all things that someone running for president does,” Gallagher said.

Newsom sidestepped Hannity’s 2024 questions during his June 12 appearance on the commentator’s Fox News program.

“I’m not answering,” he said when asked about the level of interest in a Newsom 2024 campaign he has gotten.

Newsom’s high-profile appearance on Fox News comes after he rolled out an ambitious new proposal: a 28th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution that would expand and standardize gun control nationwide.

“The 28th Amendment will enshrine in the Constitution common sense gun safety measures that Democrats, Republicans, Independents, and gun owners overwhelmingly support–while leaving the 2nd Amendment unchanged and respecting America’s gun-owning tradition,” the governor said in a statement outlining the proposal.

Newsom has also sparred with Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. Until just weeks ago, DeSantis was engaged in what some consider his own shadow campaign for 2024. DeSantis formally announced his candidacy for president on Twitter on May 24.

Gallagher suggested Newsom’s farsighted goals have made the here and now a little blurry.

“People want him to focus on his own state, and we have some really big problems here: homelessness, crime, gun violence, fentanyl that’s killing far too many of our citizens every day. And he’s more interested in trying to grow his national exposure,” he said.

Eric Schickler, a University of California at Berkeley political

scientist, agreed that homelessness could be costly to Newsom in a national run in an April interview with The Hill

“It would be surprising if he were doing nothing to burnish a national campaign,” Schickler said in his interview with the publication.

Yet, Newsom’s repeated victories at the ballot box by landslide margins could argue for his electability, at least on the West Coast.

LaMalfa suggested that Newsom stands a chance to win the presidency “if California’s track record is something that appeals to U.S. voters.”

Doubts in Sacramento on 2024

Few would disagree that Newsom has national and specifically presidential ambitions.

Yet, others in California politics are more skeptical that Newsom could make his move as soon as this cycle.

After all, a Quinnipiac University poll several months ago found that 70 percent of voters in the Golden State oppose a Newsom presidential bid in 2024.

“It would be very difficult to be governor of California and run for president at the same time,” a Republican official in Sacramento told The Epoch Times in a June 9 interview.

“If he does run, it would be in ’28,” the official added.

That would be two years after Newsom leaves the governorship; term limits prevent him from going for a third term.

After 2026, Newsom “could just campaign full time” with his growing war chest, the official said, noting that the governor is adept at picking up the national headlines that keep his name in the news.

The official suggested the consensus in Sacramento is that Newsom is “playing the long game” by waiting a few more years to make his move.

Gallagher offered a clashing perspective, suggesting that 2028 could be a little late.

“I think Newsom sees this time as the most opportune time, while he’s just been reelected as governor of California. His popularity is at a peak, at least among Democratic voters,” he told The Epoch Times.

The Republican official in Sacramento said California’s wildfire season could also conflict with a

Newsom presidential campaign while he’s still governor.

“It would be very difficult to be in one of those swing states … while towns are getting wiped off the map here,” the official said.

LaMalfa disagreed.

“He [Newsom] hasn’t paid a price for California’s wildfire season. He hasn’t paid a price at all,” he told The Epoch Times.

LaMalfa argued that Newsom has remained politically “impervious” to what he sees as the governor’s failures on forest management.

“It doesn’t seem to matter to anybody,” he said.

‘No Parallel … Whatsoever’ Newsom wouldn’t be the first California governor to reach the presidency. Former actor Ronald Reagan reached the White House after leading a very different Golden State from the one that exists today.

While the two aren’t very similar ideologically, they share at least some superficial characteristics.

Like Newsom, Reagan made himself a familiar name in the years before his 1980 presidential run. In fact, his 1976 attempt to wrest the Republican nomination from incumbent President Gerald Ford could offer a foretaste of conflict between Newsom and others in his party in this or a coming election cycle.

Like Reagan, Newsom is an unusually telegenic politician–out of place in some parts of America, perhaps, but perfect for Hollywood’s home state.

In addition, both men have won some degree of respect from another former California state executive, Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Then-California Gov. Schwarzenegger described Reagan as “a source of inspiration” in a Fox News interview after Reagan’s death in 2004.

“President Reagan was one of my idols and I think that I got inspired by him, and you know, I will continue on having the kind of positive attitude that he had,” he told Hannity and Alan Colmes in 2004.

In a May 2023 interview with Hollywood Reporter, Schwarzenegger suggested that a Newsom run for high office is “a no-brainer.”

“I would run things differently [than Newsom], but I’m a Republican, so of course I would. I don’t criticize

marine engineering at University College London, said submersibles typically have a drop weight, which is “a mass they can release in the case of an emergency to bring them up to the surface using buoyancy.”

“If there was a power failure and/ or communication failure, this might have happened, and the submersible would then be bobbing about on the surface waiting to be found,” Greig said.

Pressure leak in hull?

Another scenario is a leak in the pressure hull, in which case the prognosis is not good, he said.

“If it has gone down to the seabed and can’t get back up under its own power, options are very limited,” Greig said. “While the submersible might still be intact, if it is beyond the continental shelf, there are very few vessels that can get that deep, and certainly not divers.”

Even if they could go that deep, he doubts they could attach to the hatch of OceanGate’s submersible.

Associated Press writers Danica Kirka, Jill Lawless and Sylvia Hui in London, Robert Gillies in Toronto, Olga R. Rodriguez in San Francisco, and Jon Gambrell in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, contributed to this report.

him for not doing it my way,” he said.

One man who doesn’t buy the Reagan comparison is Craig Shirley, a historian and political consultant. Shirley has written four books about the two-term Republican president.

“There is no parallel between [Newsom] and Reagan whatsoever, the 1976 challenge of Ford notwithstanding,” Shirley told The Epoch Times in a June 7 email.

“Reagan had deep roots in the GOP, plus crossover appeal among Democrats. Thus the ‘Reagan Democrat.’ [Newsom] has no crossover appeal whatsoever and only limited appeal in his own party outside of California. There is no such thing as a ‘[Newsom] Republican’ culturally or otherwise,” Shirley added.

Shirley said Newsom doesn’t strike him as electable, but he had a more positive take on another Democratic hopeful: Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

“RFK Jr. is filling several interesting lanes; anti-Bidenism in the party, a populist distrust of bigness, and the lasting nostalgia of the Kennedy name,” Shirley said.

LaMalfa agreed that the son of slain Democratic politician Robert Kennedy would be an “interesting” 2024 prospect. “I don’t think their party’s even happy about it. Kind of like how Tulsi Gabbard caused them problems a little bit until they squashed her,” he added.

The Republican official in Sacramento doesn’t expect RFK Jr.’s candidacy to go far.

“Once people get educated about what his policy positions are, I think the Democratic electorate is just going to say, ‘Man, you’re running in the wrong primary. You will be better off in the Republican primary,’” the official told The Epoch Times.

Yet, the insider didn’t rule out the possibility of a Kennedy victory.

“If Kennedy caught fire and Biden got sick–like I say, never say never,” the official said.

The Epoch Times reached out to Newsom and other California political insiders, including Schwarzenegger and various Democrats in the state. None of them commented by press time.

Former California congressman Devin Nunes and presidential historian Allan Lichtman also declined to comment.

Friends of the Anza Library host 2023 Summer Reading Program Kick-off event

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

Firemen let children play with the fire hose at the Friends of the Anza Library 2023 Summer Reading Program Kick-off event. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo Elizabeth Gardner and Jennifer Savino were on hand to meet, greet and sign their

Vendors, a book and DVD sale, music, book signings and mingling with library staff and supporters

were highlights of the Friends of the Anza Library 2023 Summer Reading Program Kick-off event Saturday, June 10. KOYT 97.1 LPFM Community Radio provided musical

entertainment, while boba drinks, jewelry, glass art, ceramics, fresh organic foods and unique apparel were offered by vendors at the festive event. Inside the library, Friends of

Annual Sage community pancake breakfast serves hundreds

the Anza Library members, as well as staff, gave guided tours of the facility and answered questions. Children were all over the room, seeking books and special activities. Authors

Living Hope Christian Fellowship hosts Family Fun Day at Lake Hemet

books for excited fans as guitarist Matthew Dodge

ANZA’S UPCOMING EVENTS

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

Regular Happenings

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

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 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 www.hamiltonmuseum. org. Find them on Facebook at “Hamilton-Museum-and-RanchFoundation.”

Backcountry Horsemen

Redshank Riders – Meetings 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 – 10:30-11:30 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.

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, Anza. For more information, 951-7634759.

Food ministries

F.U.N. Group weekly food ministry – Deliveries arrive by 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.

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 (6 to 12 grade) meets for games and Bible study.

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 www.squadron59.org.

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

Redshank Riders – 7 p.m. Backcountry horsemen meet at the Little Red Schoolhouse in Anza, the second Thursday of each month. Visit www.redshankriders. com or call Carol Schmuhl for membership information at 951663-6763.

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Narcotics Anonymous

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

Veterans’ Gathering Mondays

– 9-11 a.m. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 39075 Contreras Road in Anza. Men and women veterans come to share and help each other deal with posttraumatic stress disorder and other difficulties. Call John Sheehan at 951-923-6153. If you need an advocate to help with VA benefits, call Ronnie Imel at 951-659-9884.

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

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

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

Bereaved Parents of the USA

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

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.

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’s Sunday Sacrament is at 10 a.m.; Sunday School is 11 a.m. Priesthood/Relief Society meets at 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, 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.

Upcoming July Elec�on for Anza Electric Board of Directors

Anza Electric Coopera�ve, Inc. is governed by seven directors represen�ng the three districts of the coopera�ve’s service area for both electric and internet services Three seats on the Anza Electric Coopera�ve board of directors will be open for elec�on this July, each for a three-year term.

The following individuals are running for the three open seats.

DISTRICT I

W.A. (Chilli) Ainsworth Steven Leash, Jr.

DISTRICT II Hope Adams

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

Clubs

Anza Valley VFW Post 1873, Capt. John Francis Drivick III Post – The Ladies’ and Men’s Auxiliaries are located at 59011 Bailey Road in Anza. Mail P.O. Box 390433. Request monthly newsletter and or weekly menu by email at vfw1873anzaca@ gmail.com. For more information, call 951-763-4439 or visit http:// vfw1873.org

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

Anza Valley Artists Meetings

– 1 p.m. Meetings are the third Saturday of each month at various locations. Share art, ideas and participate in shows. Guest speakers are always needed. For more information, call president Rosie Grindle at 951-928-1248. Find helpful art tips at 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 www.facebook. com/LionsofAnzaValley. For more information, email president Greg Sandling at President. AnzaLions@gmail.com or Chris Skinner at Secretary.AnzaLions@ gmail.com

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

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

From the Heart Christian

Women’s Ministries – Noon. Monthly luncheon and guest speaker are held the second Saturday of each month. The $5 charge covers lunch at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 56095 Pena Road, 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 on hall rentals, swap meet booths and save on propane gas from Ferrellgas. Mail membership to: Anza Community Building Inc. at P.O. Box 390091, Anza, CA 92539. The hall is located at 56630 Highway 371 in Anza. Swap meet held each Saturday of the month, weather permitting, early morning to 1 p.m. Vendors wanted. For more information, call 951-2824267.

Anza Civic Improvement League – 9 a.m. meets the first Saturday of each month at the Little Red Schoolhouse. The league maintains Minor Park and the 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 www. anzacivic.org

Anza Electric and CoBank partner to support local charities

DISTRICT III

Stephan Lauzier

Since only one pe��on was received for both Districts II and III, incumbent Hope Adams will be seated for District II and incumbent Stephan Lauzier will be seated for District III, each for a three year term, per AEC bylaw, Ar�cle IV, sec�on 4(e).

Annual Mee�ng informa�on, candidate resumes and the Annual Report will be part of the July Currents magazine arriving in mail boxes the first week of July. Elec�on materials will be arriving in member’s mail and e-mails in the coming weeks.

An independent elec�on processor will handle the elec�on and the elec�on results will be announced at the Annual Membership Mee�ng on Saturday, July 15th, 2023.

• 951-763-4333

www.anzaelectric.org

58470 Hwy 371/PO Box 391909, Anza, CA 92539

ANZA – Anza Electric Cooperative Inc. joined forces again with CoBank to contribute funds to area charitable organizations in support of the group’s missions.

CoBank’s Sharing Success program has helped communities served by their banking partners since 2012, with $76 million in combined donations, according to their website. These funds go to local groups to assist with community focused programs.

“We are grateful to CoBank for their continuing help with our local community,” Kevin Short,

general manager of AEC, said. “These funds help with our hunger relief programs and community charities, and the need has never been greater.”

This year’s recipients include Anza Civic Improvement League, High Country Recreation, Anza Lions Club, Hamilton Museum, Anza Community Building and FIND Food Bank. For further information, visit http://www.anzaelectric.org or call 951-763-4333.

Submitted by Anza Electric Cooperative.

Mountain residents prepare for Anza Days 2023

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

Mountain residents are awaiting the annual Anza Days events the first weekend in July. Residents are getting ready as the funfilled weekend approaches, with traditional festivities planned for Friday, June 30 and Saturday, July 1. For decades, the actionpacked celebration has been an essential part of the community and its history. It never fails to be a entertaining, humorous, colorful and fun combination of wholesome activities put on by civic organizations and a great number of volunteers.

The Miss Anza pageant will take place Thursday, June 22, in Minor Park beginning at 6 p.m. The Anza Days committee is still accepting applicants for the popular contest held every year the week before Anza Days. More information is available by calling Lorraine’s Pet Supply at 951-763-0033. The Miss Anza contest is open to all girls from newborn to adult, divided into six divisions.

Friday, June 30, starting at 5:30 p.m., the Anza Community Hall will host the traditional Anza Days kickoff dinner and dance. A sit-down barbecue meal will be served until 6:30 p.m., with to-go dinners being offered until 7:30 p.m.. Adult entry is $10, with children 12 and under free.

After the meal, an old time country hoe-down will commence, featuring the Barnyard Boyz playing country and rock favorites from 7 until 10 p.m. Tickets may be purchased at the door. Sometimes the subject of rave reviews, the event is one of the highlights of the weekend.

Saturday, July 1, from 7 to 10 a.m., the Anza Thimble Club ladies will be creating a pancake breakfast at the Anza Community Hall, which will include fluffy pancakes accompanied by scrambled eggs, sausage links, coffee and orange juice. Adult tickets are $6, and children under 12 are $3. Always a success, the charity event is a great start to the day’s activities. The Club ladies

prepare the meal and all proceeds collected are dispersed to local charities in need.

Floats, equestrian groups, vintage cars and more will line up along Bahrman Road starting at 7 a.m. Float registration will be from 7 to 10 a.m., with judging taking place at 10 a.m. State Highway 371 will be closed to traffic at 10:30 a.m. and the parade will begin at 11 a.m. Anza Electric Cooperative general manager Kevin Short has been named the Grand Marshal of the event.

The parade will travel along Hwy. 371 between Bahrman and Contreras roads, through the heart of Anza.

Parking is encouraged off the highway in the open fields and parking lots, to keep the side of the road open for spectators.

Sunscreen and plenty of drinking water is advised.

Some families stake out their parade-viewing spots the night before. Good-natured competition occurs as people jockey for the best positions and the celebration is on.

Besides the fun floats and groups, the children may be delighted in getting hosed by the fire trucks and scrambling after hard candies thrown by the parade participants all along the route.

After the parade, the party will continue at Minor Park with live music, food, vendors, a beer garden, playground and more from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Lions Club of Anza Valley is planning to host an Anza Days Gymkhana and bucking bull event at the Lions Field located at 39551 Kirby Road in Anza. Sign

ups start at 3 p.m. with events starting at 4 p.m. However, due to concerns about an equine disease outbreak, caution is being taken in the decision to proceed with the games.

“We are closely monitoring the Vesicular Stomatitis outbreak in Southern California,” Lions Club of Anza Valley secretary Christopher Skinner said. “We will be making a decision if the gymkhana will be postponed again. However, bull riding and mutton busting will still be held.”

The bucking bull event will be from 4 to 9 p.m. Vendors are being sought for the event. Spaces are $40 each. For vendor information, please contact Stace at 843-263-0474. Vendors are responsible for properly securing their equipment. The venue is outside and the wind can be

unpredictable.

The Anza Days festivities have been a highlight in the community for decades without exception.

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

For more information regarding the Lions Club of Anza Valley, please email Greg Sandling at President. AnzaLions@gmail.com or visit them at www.facebook.com/ LionsofAnzaValley.

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

Fishing is a popular activity at the Living Hope Christian

LAKE from page D-1

camaraderie provided a relaxing time for parishioners.

Living Hope is an active Christian church that values tradition and family values. Watson, his wife Cindy and church members are active in the community, volunteering and assisting local nonprofit charities with their events.

Living Hope Christian Fellowship meets weekly at the Community Hall for its services.

To contact Living Hope Christian Fellowship of Anza, visit www.facebook.com/LivingHope-Anza-268791509833485 or www.livinghopeanza.com/home

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

Vocalist Kathy Blair opens the 2022 Anza Days parade with the national anthem, flanked by the AxleBenders 4x4 Club SoCal displaying flags. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo

Fellowship Family Fun Day at Lake Hemet.

Children play games in the crisp fresh air at the Living Hope Christian Fellowship Family Fun Day Saturday, June 10.

Anza Valley Outlook/Amy Procop photos

provided his unique renditions of popular tunes, picked on his acoustic guitar.

“This was a great day for the library,” Friends of the Anza Library president Jill Roberts said.

Special guest Riverside County Supervisor Chuck Washington signed up as a member of the Friends of the Anza Library and gave a sizable donation to the organization on behalf of the county.

“We talked about different ways to embrace finding your voice and how the community is helping individuals do so throughout the summer at their many events,” Washington said.

The Friends of the Anza Library annual membership is only $10. Supporters that join now get 10 free books from the library’s bookstore.

The Anza Valley Library is a joint-use public library, located inside Hamilton High School, but a separate entity. It is part of the Riverside County Library System, located at 57430 Mitchell Road, Anza.

The library’s hours are Thursday and Friday from 4 to 7 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday noon to 4 p.m.

Staff may be reached by calling 951-763-4216.

Please join the Friends of the Anza Valley Community Library at www.facebook.com/ groups/223224583610311.

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

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

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

Local musician Matthew Dodge croons rock and blues hits at the Friends of the Anza Library 2023 Summer Reading Program Kick-off event Saturday, June 10.

Artist Christi Harnen Pomije enjoys socializing as she offers her handmade jewelry and other creations at the Summer Reading Program Kick-off event.

Food and beverage vendor Allison Crumly, owner of Bofa Boba, does brisk business at the Friends of the Anza Library 2023 Summer Reading Program Kick-off event.

Children could be seen taking time to appreciate their new books at the 2023 Summer Reading Program Kick-off event, June 10.

Author and illustrator Jennifer Savino signs her books at the Friends of the Anza Library 2023 Summer Reading Program Kick-off event.

Riverside County Supervisor Chuck Washington fills out a membership form for Friends of the Anza Library at the Summer Reading Program Kick-off event.

Children take turns sitting in a fire truck outside at the 2023 Summer Reading Program Kick-off.

Jill Kemerer-Roberts, left, Kay Mackay and Riverside County Supervisor Chuck Washington pose after Washington announces the County’s generous donation to the Friends of the Anza Library at the 2023 Summer Reading Program Kick-off event.

Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photos

PANCAKES from page D-1

fundraising activities to help raise money to benefit our Sage community,” Eleni Malandrinos, Sage Roadrunners Ladies Auxiliary president, said.

Friends and neighbors mingled with firefighters, law enforcement officers, community activists and government representatives. Bake sale goodies, raffles, arts and crafts and fire and police giveaways greeted visitors as they entered the fire department building for the breakfast.

This event is part of fundraising activities to help with community projects and to fund local nonprofits.

Sage Fire Department No. 28 is located at 35655 Sage Road, which is about eight miles south of Hemet.

For more information about the Sage Roadrunners Ladies Auxiliary, please contact Eleni Malandrinos at emalandrinos@ aol.com

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

Detransitioners – A new need for community

own flag that is in pinks, blues and white. North American Man Boy Love Association (NAMBLA) has been around for over 50 years. They lobby to free young people to love who they wish, including of course, older adults.

Across the country laws are changing, biological men are coming into girls’ shower rooms after swimming, etc. Women, who fought long and hard for equal rights, are now having to step down or step aside for biological men to take their places on the podium in the first place position for sports.

not accept it just because it’s “inclusive” language. If someone wants to be called something different, OK, but if you are a mother and a breastfeeder, wear those traditional names and roles proudly.

There are all kinds of new rules, while women watch men, like actor Dylan Mulvaney put on makeup and women’s clothes, prance around like a squealing 10-year-old little girl and say he’s a woman. He is not a woman. He is a man dressed as a woman and it makes a mockery of women.

life, climax, or pregnancy. It’s extremely sad.

Where do they turn? Once they decide to detransition back to their biological sex, many say their LGBTQ community is just toxic and shuns them. It leaves them very lonely.

June is Pride Month, and the efforts continue to normalize transgender and non-binary culture. But obviously, not everyone is on board. Boycotts on businesses like Anheuser-Busch and Target, have caused billions of dollars in losses.

For decades, most people I know treated all people respectfully and just said, “It’s not my business or concern what people do behind closed doors as long as they don’t try to push it on me or my children.”

Well, we are long past that now. Parents across the country are being encouraged to have their children read to and entertained by trans women, who are biological males. Sometimes story hour includes dancing which is suggestive and inappropriate.

Young boys are given accolades for cross dressing, dancing and entertaining adult men. In California, if a parent doesn’t go along with their child’s new trans identity they’ve discovered on social media or at school, they could be brought up on child abuse charges and lose their child. Counselors aren’t allowed to actually treat what may be depression. If they do, they could lose their license for not automatically “gender affirming.”

There’s a movement underway to rename pedophiles as Minor Attracted Persons (MAPs) to make it more acceptable. Is that part of the + in LGBTQ+? They have their

I fully expect coaches to start “recruiting” biological boys and men to compete on girls teams so they can have an edge, break records and win. Isn’t that what coaches are pressured to do? What is stopping them? Does it matter that girls are now getting hurt from their male competitors?

There’s also a lot of pressure for regular people, or “Cis” people, to compromise being true to themselves. What they know to be true scientifically and biologically doesn’t matter; they are being coerced to say things that aren’t true. It is called “compelled speech” and is quite the opposite of free speech because you are expected and possibly forced to say things that you don’t believe. This pressure is typical in Communist China.

So women aren’t free anymore to identify as they always have. This is again, for men, so that the trans people can be more comfortable. Women are not supposed to identify as mothers anymore, but be “birthing people” which is more “inclusive” language. Our feelings and rights are again second class. We like “identifying” as mothers, because we are mothers, real mothers and real women. Motherhood is likely the most significant and fulfilling identity we have.

We can’t breastfeed anymore because we are now “chestfeeders.”

It’s all ridiculous, and we should

Why is it offensive to put on blackface, but not womanface? Now there are videos where men, dressed as women are making fun of menstruation, tampons, etc. These guys have no clue of what women have to go through. Honestly, it’s just so sad. I’m glad to see a few men stepping up to defend womanhood. I don’t understand how such a small group of people can bully the rest of the population with such political backing, not to mention the theatrics.

But aside from those realities, as mothers, friends and counselors, we have a whole new reality to think about and prepare for. There are tens of thousands of mostly young people who have tried this lifestyle and realized it was a grave mistake for them. They have varying degrees of permanent damage that’s been done to their bodies. They are grieving the loss of a normal life and have a high suicide rate.

They have lost their feminine or masculine voice and normal hair patterns. Children have taken hormone blockers and will never be able to have children. Some women are now bald and have beards from hormone therapy. Some young people have permanently removed their genitals and breasts. Some have replaced their sex organs with surgically created ones that don’t work like “real” ones. They will never know a normal sex

I was reading through subreddits for detransitioners this weekend. There are over 50,000 people who have a community dedicated to detransitioning through Reddit. That is a huge number. There is also a growing group of detransitioners talking about their struggle on Youtube and TikTok. Many of them regret making such serious permanent life altering decisions.

I listened with empathy while they said they wished their therapist or doctor would have slowed it down and their parents wouldn’t have been so supportive.

Many detransitioners take responsibility for their decisions, but they wish someone would have tried to address the root of the problem rather than just providing hormone therapy and prescribing

surgery. Both men and women were sorry that they would never be able to have children, and women how they would never be able to breastfeed their babies. Excuse me, “chestfeed” their babies. It is so sad. It’s overwhelming. It made me consider what we could do as a community to help. The churches could work together to create a place of peace and acceptance to help them. The church and the community could come together. It is common for churches to have drug and alcohol recovery groups, pregnant mom groups, single parent support groups, pornography recovery groups, etc. How could we support this new and growing group of hurting people?

The more the politicians, schools, and social media introduce this ideology, normalize it and push it on young people, we are going to see a growing group of people who need love, acceptance and support while they do the really hard work to get their lives back.

A virtual solution could improve the student housing shortage

Rick Benbow Regional Vice President of Western Governors University

The moment when a student learns they’ve been accepted into college, especially one on their shortlist, can be filled with excitement and pride. Those emotions can soon shift to frustration and panic when they ask, “Where will I live?”

Across the U.S., student housing availability and cost continue to move in opposite directions.

According to a 2022 survey by StudentBeans, about one-fifth of U.S. students have experienced housing insecurity, which makes them “twice as likely to want to

drop out of college.” With the rising cost of tuition and increasing enrollment rates, universities and colleges have not kept up with the demand for on-campus housing. Communities cannot totally fill the gap, with limited off-campus housing pushing rental costs beyond what many students can afford.

While nearly 45% of U.S. students continue to live with their parents, an option not universally available, too many students resort to long commutes, substandard housing conditions, couch surfing or even sleeping in their car. Over 200,000 see

Mary Wright tends the raffle booth at the annual Sage community pancake breakfast Saturday, June 10. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photos

The traditional history table is organized by James Phillips, who answers questions at this year’s Sage community pancake breakfast.

Volunteers Irene Tehran, left, Armins Bazagani and Maryanne Malandrinos serve guests at the annual Sage community pancake breakfast.

A pancake and egg meal is provided at the annual Sage community pancake breakfast, June 10.

Julie Reeder Publisher