Valley News - July 7, 2023

Wildomar announces new, rst hotel

WILDOMAR – The developers for the hotel portion of the Baxter Village project on Wildomar Trail closed escrow Tuesday, June 27 on the site and have secured the rights to construct Marriott TownePlace Suites in that location.

e Nature Education Foundation, Temecula Valley Woman’s Club present grant awards

Tony Ault Staff Writer

The Nature Education Foundation at the Santa Rosa Plateau and the Temecula Valley Woman’s Club presented four nonprofit agencies and schools small grant awards totaling $10,000 during the annual TNEF membership mingle, Wednesday, June 28.

ousands of hotel workers in SoCal are on strike for better pay and bene ts

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Thousands of hotel workers in Southern California walked off the job on Sunday, July 2, demanding higher pay and better benefits in what the union is calling the largest strike in its history.

Murrieta’s Rickie Fowler wins Rocket Mortgage Classic, ends 4-year drought

Prosecutors to seek death penalty for man accused of killing deputy

City News Service

Special to the Valley News

Prosecutors intend to seek the death penalty for a 43-year-old man accused of gunning down a Riverside County sheriff’s deputy, who went to the defendant’s Lakeland Village home to investigate a domestic disturbance, it was announced Monday, July 3.

Jesse Ceazar Navarro allegedly killed 30-year-old Deputy Darnell Calhoun on the afternoon of Friday, Jan. 13, 2023.

“Deputy Calhoun showed incredible courage during a terrifying situation that unfolded in a matter of seconds,” District Attorney Mike Hestrin said Monday. “His dedication to the community culminated in a ruthless attack by Navarro that also put the lives of many others at extreme peril.”

Navarro is charged with firstdegree murder, attempted murder, special circumstance allegations

of lying in wait and taking the life of a peace officer, as well as sentence-enhancing gun and great bodily injury allegations.

The D.A.’s office customarily waits until after a preliminary hearing to announce whether capital punishment will be sought in murder cases with special circumstances. However, when the cases involve law enforcement personnel or other unusual elements, the decision can come early in the process, years ahead of the trial.

A penalty trial will only go forward after a conviction of murder with at least one special circumstance.

Navarro is being held without bail at the Robert Presley Jail in Riverside. His next court appearance is a mental competency hearing set for Sept. 1 at the Southwest Justice Center in Murrieta.

According to a sheriff’s arrest see CALHOUN, page A-3

Plans underway to reopen San Jacinto Animal Campus

Riverside County Board of Supervisors recently voted to provide funding that would make it possible to reopen the San Jacinto shelter to the public and efforts are underway to reopen the shelter after it was shuttered in 2020 due to budgetary concerns.

“The work being done at our Riverside County animal shelters is critical for the safety and health of pets and their families countywide. Reopening the San Jacinto Animal Campus broadens that work to meet the needs of residents,” said Fifth District Supervisor Yxstian Gutierrez.

While the facility, located at 581 S. Grand Ave., in San Jacinto, has provided animal control services to unincorporated areas of the county, the $3.4 million budget adopted and ratified by the Board on June 20 will now allow for a fuller spectrum of public amenities to

Rickie Fowler, who grew up in Murrieta, holds the winner’s trophy after winning on the first playoff hole on the 18th green during the final round of the Rocket Mortgage Classic golf tournament Sunday, July 2, in Detroit. See story on page C-1.

Photo/Carlos Osorio

San Jacinto Valley Animal Campus was closed down in 2020 due to budgetary concerns. Valley News/Courtesy

Riverside County sheriff’s deputy Darnell Calhoun was shot to death while responding to a domestic disturbance on Jan. 13.

County renews fire protection and emergency medical services agreement with City of Lake Elsinore

Joe Naiman

Writer

The County of Riverside renewed its agreement with the City of Lake Elsinore to provide fire and emergency medical services for the city.

The Riverside County Board of Supervisors voted 3-0 June 13, with Karen Spiegel and Manuel Perez absent, to approve a new agreement with the City of Lake Elsinore. The agreement will be for a three-year period ending June 30, 2026.

Lake Elsinore has contracted with the county for fire protection and emergency medical services since 1990. The previous contract took effect on July 1, 2021, and expired June 30, 2023.

The county will provide 36 full-time personnel including three vacation relief positions. Two engineers, two firefighter paramedics, and one engineer paramedic will be assigned to Station 10 in the 400 block of

SHELTER from page A-1

include licensing, sheltering, fostering and adoption opportunities.

“We are very pleased with this news and are working quickly to open the shelter and provide assistance to our mid-county residents and their pets,” said Erin Gettis, Riverside County Department of Animal Services director.

Gettis added: “Reopening the shelter will improve the Department of Animal Services’ ability to provide comprehensive services to people and their pets in the mid county area. It’s an important step in addressing the overcrowding of our shelters here in Riverside County, much as we have seen

West Graham Avenue. Two captains, two engineers, and two firefighter paramedics will be based at Station 85 in the 29400 block of Grand Avenue.

Two captains, two engineers, and two firefighter paramedics will work out of Station 94 in the 22700 block of Railroad Canyon Road. Three engineers, three firefighters, and three firefighter paramedics will be at Station 97 in the 41700 block of Rosetta Canyon Drive. Three truck captains do not have assignment to a specific station. The vacation relief staff will consist of two firefighter paramedics and one engineer medics. The county will also provide a battalion chief, a fire safety supervisor, a fire safety specialist, and a fire safety inspector. An administrative services assistant will be shared with the City of Menifee.

The city’s reimbursement for fire protection and emergency medical services also includes shares of support services and fire engine expenses. The esti-

across the nation.”

A projected timeline for opening the facility with expanded capabilities is slated for later in fall, but Gettis and her team are currently working to recruit staff and reaching out to mid-county residents regarding services.

Staff at the shelter will include animal control officers, animal care and shelter operations. Veterinary care is also being explored at the facility to support the growing public interest for services.

For information, visit www. rcdas.org or email shelterinfo@ rivco.org.

Submitted by Riverside County Department of Animal Services

mated City of Lake Elsinore cost will be $10,573,885 for Fiscal Year 2023-24, $11,377,244 for Fiscal Year 2024-25, and

CHP:

City News Service

Special to the Valley News

A 69-year-old motorcyclist who was killed in a collision with a sedan in Valle Vista hit the car when the driver turned in front of him, authorities said.

Stanley Summers of Hemet was fatally injured about 6:20 p.m. Wednesday, June 28 in the 43000 block of Mayberry Avenue, at Pleasant Street, according to the California Highway Patrol.

The agency said Summers was riding his 1997 Honda mo-

$11,938,341 for Fiscal Year 2025-26.

The May 26 Lake Elsinore City Council meeting included

the city’s approval of the cooperative agreement.

torcycle eastbound on Mayberry at an unknown speed when the driver of a 2018 Honda sedan approached from the opposite direction and initiated a left turn to head southbound on Pleasant.

The motorist, identified only as a 56-year-old Hemet man, was going about 25 mph and apparently did not notice Summers’ motorcycle coming toward him as he started his turn, the CHP said.

The bike collided with the passenger side of the car.

“The motorcyclist was ejected

and succumbed to his injuries at the scene,” the CHP said.

The driver of the sedan suffered minor injuries in the collision and was taken to a hospital for treatment. He was later released. Officers questioned the motorist but did not arrest him.

“Alcohol or drugs are not believed to have been a contributing factor in the collision,” according to the CHP.

Anyone with information was asked to contact the CHP San Gorgonio office at 951-769-2000.

Valley News/Adobe Stock photo

Collision that killed rider caused when driver turned in front of him

Children and adults learn the art of hula hooping at the Murrieta Town Square Amphitheater

Tony Ault Staff Writer

It was hard to tell who was having more fun on the Menifee Town Square Amphitheater stage, Miss Pinto or the more than 30 children of all ages on June 30 learning how to hula hoop.

The children ranging in age from 2 to 16 and their parents joined in with internationally known hula hoop performer, “Miss Pinto,” otherwise known as Katie Pinto LeBrun to spin, sway and twirl the colorful hula hoops, a round plastic exercise tool.

The exhibition and learning experience was a part of the ongoing Murrieta Public Library children and adult programs held throughout the year at 8 Town Square Park in Murrieta.

The children, sitting on the stage many with their own hula hoops, and their attentive parents watched as Miss Pinto explained how to properly twirl the hula hoop, sometimes doing three at a time. Miss Pinto then showed her appreciative audience her own moves with the hula hoop that have taken her to many libraries across the nation and even to different countries in her life. Following that, the stage was filled with children twirling and swaying with their hula hoops, some for the first time. It was a combination of intent and joy for most.

“I have worked with libraries, teachers, and dance classes across 30 states with tots to adults and overseas,” Miss Pinto said with a hula hoop held across her arm. “To me, performing (with hula hoops) is where I find the most joy. I love to see the kids’ faces when they learn how to hula hoop.”

She praised using the hula hoop as a great exercise and entertainment method and urged all able bodied children and adults to learn how. She said she first learned how to hula hoop at the age of 20 and has gone on to become an expert hula hoop performer.

She said she has videos on Instagram @katiepintobellafish for

those interested in learning more.

The Murrieta Public Library current programs include a Family Game Night at 6 p.m. on July 7, Line Dancing at the Park at 7 p.m.

July 14, a Family LEGO Derby on July 21 at 5 p.m., The Magic of Justin Rivera at 7 p.m. July 28 and Dog Tales of Summer coming on Aug. 7 at the Murrieta Library.

For more information on the Murrieta Public Library call 951304-BOOK (2665) or visit https:// www.murrietaca.gov/library.

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

CALHOUN from page A-1

warrant affidavit filed with the criminal complaint, Calhoun went to the residence in the 18500 block of Hilldale Lane, near Grand Avenue, about 4:30 p.m. Jan. 13 after 911 dispatchers received a call giving indications of what sounded like a domestic altercation at the location, without certainty because the caller abruptly hung up.

Calhoun arrived alone in his patrol vehicle and “contacted several individuals in the driveway of the residence,” according to the declaration.

“Navarro partially concealed himself behind an open door of his (pickup) truck, holding a handgun out of sight of Deputy Calhoun,” the document said. “Within 17 seconds of Deputy Calhoun arriving on scene, Navarro began shooting at him. Navarro fired multiple rounds at Deputy Calhoun, as Deputy Calhoun fled on foot. Navarro then entered his truck, drove in the direction that Calhoun had fled and continued to fire at him from the truck.”

The affidavit indicated Calhoun fired back at the defendant, but “none of the rounds appeared to injure him.”

Calhoun was hit several times and collapsed in the street.

Within three minutes, a backup deputy reached the location and encountered Navarro sitting in his pickup at the end of the street.

The lawman ordered Navarro to surrender, but the assailant allegedly ignored the commands and instead “exited his truck still armed with the handgun, (firing) multiple times toward this deputy,” according to the declaration.

“The deputy fired multiple times toward Navarro, eventually striking Navarro multiple times,” the document stated.

Calhoun was taken to Inland Valley Medical Center in Wildomar, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. The other deputy was not injured.

Navarro was initially taken to the same trauma center, but later transferred to the University of San Diego Medical Center, where he underwent surgery and spent weeks in recovery.

He has no documented prior felony convictions in Riverside County.

Calhoun had been with the sheriff’s department and assigned to the Lake Elsinore station less than a year, previously serving with the San Diego Police Department. His parents are business owners in Temecula.

He left behind a pregnant wife

and two sons, ages 2 and 4. Exactly one week prior to Calhoun’s slaying, Deputy Isaiah Albert Cordero was laid to rest. The 32-year -old motorcycle deputy was shot to death on the afternoon of Dec. 29 by a convicted felon during a traffic stop in Jurupa Valley. The man was killed

two hours later during a gun battle with deputies attempting to arrest him after a lengthy pursuit that ended on southbound Interstate 15 in Norco.

Cordero’s death was the first deputy line-of-duty death in Riverside County in 15 years.

Since Calhoun’s death, another

deputy, 27-year-old Brett Michael Harris, died while on patrol. Harris was responding to a call in San Jacinto when he was involved in a collision with a motorist on the morning of May 12. Harris was laid to rest a month ago.

The Murrieta Town Square Amphitheater stage is filled with children and adults learning the skill of hula hooping following a hula hoop performance by Miss Pinto at the Murrieta Public Library, June 30. Valley News/Tony Ault photos

After learning how to hula hoop children filling the Town Square Amphitheater stage sway and swirl the hoops as their parents happily watch, some joining in.

Children and adults sitting on the Murrieta Town Square Amphitheater stage watch as Miss Pinto, Katie Pinto LeBrun performs her hula hoop skills at the Murrieta Public Library event.

Laren Garrison, 8, gets a personal lesson on how to twirl a hula hoop from instructor Miss Pinto at the Murrieta Public Library hula hoop lessons event.

Menifee street project and construction updates for July

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

Normandy Road Street Improvements – Capital Improvement Project

The City will begin constructing pedestrian access improvements along Normandy Road over Salt Creek on Wednesday, July 5. Traffic delays should be expected between La Ladera Road and Berea Road while the project is active. The project is anticipated to be completed in August 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. For additional information and to sign up for project updates, please visit

www.hollandoverpass.com.

Murrieta Road and La Piedra Road – New Traffic Signal

The developer of Quartz Ranch is currently installing a new traffic signal at the intersection of Murrieta Road and La Piedra Road. Lanes may be reduced to a single lane with flaggers present during construction. Detours will be posted. Traffic delays should be expected through the end of July.

SCE Work on Menifee Road

– Newport to Holland Southern California Edison (SCE) has completed trenching for new power lines in the rightof-way/shoulder along Menifee Road. Work will continue during daytime hours at the intersection of Newport Road and Menifee Road. 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 into July.

Audie Murphy Ranch Road –

County renews Lakeland Village Community Center operating agreement

Joe Naiman

Writer

The County of Riverside renewed its agreement with Studio 395 Foundation to operate the Lakeland Village Community Center.

A 5-0 Riverside County Board of Supervisors vote June 27 approved a new three-year agreement with Studio 395 Foundation. The agreement covers the period from July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2026.

The Lakeland Village Community Center in the 16200 block of Grand Avenue opened in June 2016. The property had previously been Butterfield Elementary School before the Lake Elsinore Unified School District closed the school in 2010, and the county purchased the land from the school district in 2015. The community center includes a multi-purpose room, a performance stage, an arts and crafts room, a dance studio, a children’s activity room, meeting space, and administrative offices. The master plan approved by the county supervisors in June 2019 will phase improvements as funding becomes available and includes playgrounds, other recreational activities, athletic field rehabilitation, upgrades of amenities to Americans with Disabilities Act standards, paving and

building upgrades, water quality improvements, pavement removal, and landscaping.

In April 2017 the county supervisors approved the initial agreement with Studio 395 Foundation to operate the Lakeland Village Community Center. Studio 395 was required to provide community center services including youth and senior programs. The scope of the services includes recreational and park, healthcare, and food services and programs. The agreement also has an annual reimbursement for services performed.

The initial agreement had a June 30, 2020, expiration. In July 2019 amendments to the original agreement refined the agreement and addressed background checks and confidentiality.

In June 2020 the county supervisors approved a new three-year agreement with Studio 395. That agreement expired June 30, 2023. An amendment approved by the Board of Supervisors in October 2021 added that Studio 395 will be responsible for managing the calendar for reservations and use of the sports amenities in the Lakeland Village Community Center common areas.

Studio 395 Foundation, which is a nonprofit corporation, will be reimbursed $120,000 annually for the three-year term of the new agreement.

Lane Closures between Destry Drive and Sagebush Lane Menifee Union School District is continuing 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 mid-July 2023.

Newport Road at Murrieta Road – Nighttime Lane Closures SCE continues nighttime work to underground utility lines at the intersection of Newport Road and Murrieta Road. Night work will be performed from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. and is expected to continue for the next several weeks. Lanes closures will be in place while this project is active.

Murrieta Road Improvements – City Capital Improvement Project The City’s roadway improvement project continues on Murrieta Road. July 1 and 2 weekend work included contractor installs

of cross gutters in the roadway. Traffic lanes were reduced to one lane in each direction. Intermittent traffic control will continue to be in place along Murrieta Road from the Salt Creek channel to San Quintin Drive to support remaining construction work. Northbound and southbound traffic lanes will be reduced to one lane in each direction through the end of July for completion of roadway resurfacing and striping. Traffic delays should be expected the project area through midSeptember 2023.

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 Boulevard and Ridgemoor Street. This portion of Valley Boulevard will be subject to lane closures during this work and traffic delays should be expected in the area through the end of July. 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 currently open in all traffic directions at this time.

Normandy Road Lane Closure – La Ladera Road to Berea Road

SCE’s 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.

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. Submitted by the city of Menifee.

EMWD approves Golden Triangle Sewer Project, adopts MND

Joe Naiman Writer

The Eastern Municipal Water District board approved the Golden Triangle Sewer Project and adopted an environmental Mitigated Negative Declaration for the project.

The 5-0 vote June 21 also approves the environmental Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program. The project will construct a sewer pipeline 15 inches in diameter from north of Murrieta Hot Springs Road to Madison Avenue.

A gravity sewer system for the Golden Triangle and the surrounding area will be at the confluence of Interstate 15, Interstate 215, and Murrieta Hot Springs Road and will include new sewers across Murrieta Hot Springs Road and across Interstate 15. The new sewer system will allow the district to abandon the existing Golden Triangle Lift Station.

Kennedy/Jenks Consultants initially received a preliminary design contract in September 2019, and in December 2019 the EMWD board awarded Kennedy/

Jenks the final design contract.

The Golden Triangle Sewer Project will consist of three segments: the Murrieta Hot Springs Road Crossing segment approximately 230 feet long, the Golden Triangle segment approximately 1,417 feet long, and the I-15 Undercrossing segment approximately 2,070 feet long. Eastern will be responsible for constructing the Murrieta Hot Springs Road Crossing and I-15 Undercrossing segments and the developer of the adjacent Golden Triangle land will construct the Golden Triangle segment. Constructing the Murrieta Hot Springs Road Crossing segment first will allow the developer to use the Murrieta Hot Springs Crossing segment to pump sewage flows to the Golden Triangle Lift Station. The I-15 Undercrossing segment will be the final section.

The mitigation and monitoring measures will reduce biological, cultural, and tribal resources impacts to less than significant levels. Vegetation removal should occur outside the general bird breeding season. If vegetation removal must occur during that period a pre-construction survey

will be necessary to confirm the presence or absence of breeding birds in the impact area. If nests or breeding activities are located on the survey area an appropriate buffer area around the nesting site must be maintained until the young have fledged. If no nesting birds are detected during the preconstruction survey, no mitigation will be required. A pre-construction take avoidance survey for the Western burrowing owl will be required within all suitable habitat located within the project footprint plus 500 feet. If burrowing owls are detected the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) must be notified within 48 hours and avoidance measures and/or mitigation will be required. Potential mitigation measures include preparation and CDFW approval of a Western burrowing owl relocation plan. The district and an appropriate Indian tribe will develop a cultural resources treatment and monitoring agreement. A cultural resources monitoring plan will also be developed.

Crossword puzzle: Movie Animals

* denotes Movie Animals clue

Councilwoman Clarissa Cervantes arrested for alleged DUI

City News Service Special to the Valley News

Riverside City Councilwoman

Clarissa Cervantes was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence Saturday, July 1.

The 32-year-old Cervantes was arrested by the California Highway Patrol at around 1:20 a.m. Saturday on Eighth Street and Interstate

10 in Banning, according to jail records.

“Last night, I made an irresponsible decision that I deeply regret. I take full responsibility, and I want to apologize to my family, my community, and the residents of the district that I represent,”

Cervantes said in a statement provided to the Southern California News Group.

Menifee Police Department to conduct DUI patrols

Cervantes was booked at the Larry D. Smith Correctional Facility on $5,000 bail and was released the same day. Her next court date was listed for Aug. 30.

Cervantes represents Ward 2, which includes the campus of UC Riverside and Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park.

Police: Repeat thief tied to multiple burglaries in Riverside

City News Service

Special to the Valley News

On Friday, June 30, Riverside police said they will request that numerous charges be filed against a known serial burglar suspected of breaking into multiple properties, including government offices, in Riverside and stealing thousands of dollars.

Michael Aria Javdani, 27, of Riverside, is in custody at the Byrd Detention Center in Murrieta, being held without bail.

The probationer i s awaiting disposition of two burglary cases stemming from alleged break-ins in March and mid-June. However, according to Riverside police spokesman Officer Ryan Railsback, detectives have since linked Javdani to at least seven other burglaries in the area, and they intend to request that the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office file additional charges.

“It was good old-fashioned police work that led our detectives to identifying this repeat offender breaking into our local businesses,” police Chief Larry Gonzalez said.

According to Railsback, after investigators positively identified Javdani as the alleged perpetrator

of a burglary in the 2000 block of Iowa Avenue, during which several thousand dollars was extracted from an ATM, they probed further into similar break-ins and found evidence tying the felon to each.

“He would break into the business and steal money from the cash register, steal money from the safe, and in two cases, steal the safe,” Railsback said. “These businesses included a sushi restaurant, local tea spot and sandwich shop. He struck the Riverside County Department of Child Support Services building and the VIP Nightclub twice, stealing several thousand dollars from an ATM machine and safe, and causing significantly more in damage to the buildings.”

Railsback alleged that Javdani used a stolen $2,000 motorized skateboard to make his getaway on several occasions.

While the probationer was in jail for the earlier alleged offenses, detectives served search warrants at his residence in the 4000 block of Sedgwick Avenue and discovered evidence pointing to his involvement in the seven burglaries, “as well as a loaded and unregistered handgun,” Railsback said.

Gonzalez said the property in the residence was confirmed stolen thanks in large part to owners keep-

CELEBR ATI NG

Michael Aria Javdani in his booking photo.

Valley News/Riverside Police Dept. photo ing meticulous records.

“It’s an important reminder to keep records on expensive and unique property, just in case anything were to happen,” the chief said. “Because the owner of the skateboard kept a receipt with his serial number, along with his tenacity (posting alerts about the theft) on social media, he’s back riding it again.”

According to court records, Javdani has multiple burglary convictions in Riverside and San Bernardino counties.

MENIFEE- Additional officers from the Menifee Police Department will be out on patrol Friday, July 7 from 7 p.m. to 3 a.m. looking for drivers suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol and/ or drugs.

“DUI’s are 100% preventable and when somebody makes the bad decision to drive impaired; it can potentially have lifelong effects on so many people besides the impaired driver,” said Chief Pat Walsh. “Driving while under the influence of alcohol, and/or drugs, is dangerous, potentially deadly.”

Please arrange for a ride if you plan on drinking or designate a sober driver when going out, otherwise you may get arrested and face legal challenges.

Menifee Police Department reminds the public that impaired driving is not just from alcohol. Some prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs may inter-

fere with driving. Always follow directions for use and read warning labels about driving or “operating heavy machinery,” which includes driving a car. While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal.

If you plan on drinking or taking medications that may impact your ability to drive safely, plan on staying at home. Driving sober is your safest bet.

Drivers caught driving impaired and charged with DUI will pay a stiff price: an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license. Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Submitted by Menifee Police Department.

Pedestrian killed on Highway 74 in Homeland identified

City News Service

Special to the Valley News

A man killed while walking along Highway 74 in Homeland was identified Monday, July 3 as a 75-year-old resident of the unincorporated community.

Julio Leiva was fatally injured about 6 p.m. Sunday on the westbound 74, just west of Leon Road, according to the California Highway Patrol.

The agency said that Leiva was struck by a Toyota Camry whose driver may have been traveling well in excess of the 25 mph posted speed limit along the four-lane corridor, which passes a housing

tract on a relatively straight, flat surface.

No other details were immediately available regarding the circumstances.

Riverside County Fire Department paramedics reached the location minutes later and pronounced the victim dead at the scene.

The driver, who was not injured, stopped and was questioned by CHP officers, but it was unclear whether the party was arrested. The Toyota was towed from the location, according to the CHP.

Anyone with information was asked to contact the Temecula CHP office at 951-506-2000.

Second Murrieta/Wildomar Chamber of Commerce Mega Mixer draws many chambers and guests

Tony Ault

Staff Writer

Chambers of commerce members, schools, colleges, universities and businesses all met from as far away as Orange County to show off their services and merchandise Thursday, June 29, for a Mega Mixer at Mt. San Jacinto College’s Temecula campus.

The Mega Mixer, hosted by the Murrieta/Wildomar Chamber of Commerce, was held at the college campus and drew about 12 other chambers of commerce and many of their members to meet and greet each other and boast about their businesses, school offerings, medical services, foods, for-profit and nonprofit services. It was the second Mega Mixer held in the past year by the Murrieta/Wildomar Chamber of Commerce.

Murrieta/Wildomar Chamber

President CEO Patrick Ellis was there greeting the many other chamber guests arriving for the special event held on the second floor or MSJC’s newest campus off of Motor Parkway in Temecula.

“We do (Mega Mixers) typically every January and June, one at the Lake Elsinore Storm Stadium and the other here at the MSJC campus,” Ellis said. “I think we ended up with about 12 different chambers this time - basically from Moreno Valley to Fallbrook. We have about 120 businesses here today. We’ve got a lot of new businesses here from many areas which is very interesting. I think getting new blood in is really an asset for those who look at it in a different way.

“I believe we have a company here from Orange County but most of them are from Southwest Riverside County,” said Ellis.

One of those was a nonprofit called the CRPS Warriors who advocated for the treatment and care for those with the rare disease Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, where people suffer from severe undetermined pain throughout their lives. The CRPS mascot, an orange panda named Ruddy, roamed from table to table drawing attention to their cause.

Many special treats were offered by many of the participants with their brand named items, pastries, foods, drinks, pens, notebooks and offers of free checkups or services, much to the delight of the visiting chamber members and guests. Admission to the special event was a business card or a $1 donation. Raffle prizes were offered by some businesses from business card drawings or signups.

Each of the chambers touted their upcoming events in the city they represent all to improve their customer and business relationships. For many it was hard to escape their presentations and sometimes take advantage of their offerings.

Ellis urges all businesses and organizations in every community to take advantage of the many services offered at their local chamber of commerce to improve their customer traffic and always advocate for a better business economy with fair business laws and practices.

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

City of Murrieta sign welcomes guests coming to the Murrieta/ Wildomar Chamber of Commerce held at Mt. San Jacinto College’s Temecula campus, Thursday, June 29. Valley News/Tony Ault photos

Patrick Ellis, president and CEO of the Murrieta/Wildomar Chamber of Commerce welcomes Murrieta City Councilman Ron Holiday to the chamber’s Mega Mixer on the second floor of the MSJC Temecula Campus.

Ruddy, the CRPS Warriors Foundation’s red panda mascot and CRPS CEO and President Deborah Jankowski tell visitors at the Mega Mixer about the rare painful disease and how they can help improve its treatment and hopeful cure.

We Got Your Back office and business service firm representative shows visitors that most bottled water brands and soft drinks contain acids, unknown to many at their booth at the Mega Mixer.

Walking away with a cut of a delicious Sizzler steak and vegetables is a visitor at the Mega Mixer on the MSJC campus.

Veterinarian assistant and a member of the Canine Support Team meet this little Welsh Corgi support dog in front of the California Veterinary Specialists booth at the Murrieta/Wildomar Chamber of Commerce Mega Mixer.

A Frontwave Credit Union representative reminds her fellow worker of the upcoming Fourth of July Celebration during a break at the Murrieta/Wildomar Chamber Mega Mixer in Temecula.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

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

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.

July 7 - 5-7 p.m. Menifee

Foodie Fridays at Mt. San Jacinto College, 28237 La Piedra Road, Menifee. Festivities will take place at Mt. San Jacinto College’s Menifee Campus the first Friday of each month through October.

July 7 - 6 p.m. Herrkooled VW Club meet up Local Vail Women’s Club meet at Vail Ranch, at 32115 Temecula Parkway, Temecula. See www.vailhq.com

July 14 - 4-8 p.m. Summer Nights Market at Vail Ranch Headquarters at 32115 Temecula Parkway, Temecula. See www. vailhq.com. Local crafters, food vendors, live music and a petting zoo. Free open to the public.

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.

July 17- 21 - 3 p.m. School of Rock Summer Camp. 30630 Rancho California Rd Suite 501F, Temecula. Come learn the music of 60s and 70s rock icons such as The Beatles, Led Zeppelin and The Rolling Stones in our Classic Rock Rewind summer camp. Information and tickets at Schoolofrock. com

July 29 – 4 p.m. Water Lantern Festival at Elm Grove Beach, 500 Lakeshore Drive, Lake Elsinore.

July 30 - 3 p.m. Temecula Wine and Beer Garden Rock, 28464 Old Town Front St. , 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 from 3:30 to 5 p.m. 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 951674-2159.

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 http://www.rivercobizhelp.org that can be used for employee retention, working capital, personal protective equipment purchases, rent or mortgage payments and paying vendor notices. Eligible businesses, including nonprofits, must be in Riverside County, with a minimum of one but less than 50 employees and operating for at least one year since March 1. For more information, call Riverside County Business and Community Services at 951-955-0493.

ONGOING – 7 a.m. to 3:30

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

ONGOING – 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Every Sunday, Murrieta Village Walk Farmers Market is at Village Walk Place in Murrieta. The Sunday morning farmers market

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

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

WORKSHOPS, MEETINGS,

NOTICES

July 7 - 6 p.m. Local Vail Women’s Club meet at Vail Ranch, at 32115 Temecula Parkway, Temecula. See www.vailhq.com

July 8- 2-4 p.m. Call to Artists by Dorland Community Arts Center off Highway 79 in Temecula. Associate Artists are invited to submit up to three pieces of art, framed and ready to hang (maximum 30 inches on any side). Intake Saturday, July 8 or Wednesday, July 12. Reception and sale Sunday, July 16, 2 - 4 p.m. Art must be in excellent condition. email to reenierin@gmail.com with any questions and with title/ medium/price.

July 10 - 8 a.m. Fore the Animals Golf Tournament event at Bear Creek Golf Club in Murrieta . Help Animal Friends of the Valleys in their effort to save pets by participating in the annual golf tournament. Sponsors sought. Shotgun starts. Join at event@afv.org

July 13 - 6 a.m to 5 p.m. You can stop Human Trafficking Campaign at 41000 Main St, TemeculaThis free event will educate you on how to identify possible victims of human trafficking and how to report that information to RCAHT

July 18 – 6 p.m. The Temecula Valley Republican Women Summer Soiree will present talks form Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco and Assemblyman Essayli focusing on Public Safety at RJ’s

Sizzlin Steer, 41401 Kalmia St. in Murrieta $35. Reservations limited to 18. RSVP by July 12. See tvrwomen.org or email at tvrwomen.org

July 29 - 12:30 - 2:30 p.m. See Disney’s The Little Mermaid at Old Town Temecula Community Theater 42051 Main St, Temecula. Beautiful mermaid Ariel should be a happy girl – she lives in an enchanted undersea country, her father is a King, and she has the most beautiful singing voice. Tickets $5 to $65. See https://tickets. temeculatheater.org/eventperformances.asp?evt=1459

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 http://www.milvet. org/military-care-packages.

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

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

ONGOING – Menifee Community Services offers online driver’s education courses for a $21.95 fee. The course includes animated driving scenarios, instructional videos, sample tests, licensed instructor available to answer questions, DMV-approved certificate of completion with all lectures and exams completed from home. Designed for students and does not

include behind-the-wheel instruction or a California driver’s permit. Contact 951-723-3880 or visit the city of Menifee to register at http:// 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 http:// 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 http://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 http://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 http://www.va.gov/homeless.

Pala Casino Spa Resort presents Kool & the Gang on July 28

PALA – Pala Casino Spa Resort

is excited to present iconic R&B, soul, and funk band, Kool & The Gang, on Friday, July 28, performing live outdoors at the Starlight Theater. The show will start at 8 p.m. Tickets prices are $35, $55, and $65 and are on sale now at the Pala Box Office, www.palacasino. com, or www.etix.com. This show is just one of the impressive lineup of headliner and tribute concerts that will be held at the Starlight Theater and Events Center.

Kool & the Gang, officially launched in 1969, after performing for five years under various band titles, has influenced the music of three generations and, at the age of 50, the band has become true recording industry legends.

Thanks to iconic songs like “Celebration,” “Cherish,” “Jungle Boogie,” “Summer Madness” and “Open Sesame,” they’ve earned two Grammy Awards,

seven American Music Awards, 25 Top Ten R&B hits, nine Top Ten Pop hits and 31 gold and platinum albums.

From Nairobi to Newark, Kool & the Gang has performed continuously longer than any R&B group in history and their bulletproof funk and jazzy arrangements have also made them the most sampled R&B band of all time. A reviewer recently called their performance “a 24-karat show” and every year, even after a half-century on the road, yields a non-stop schedule of shows across the globe.

Tickets are on sale now, with no service charge, at the Pala Box Office, www.palacasino. com and 1-877-WIN-PALA (1877-946-7252). Tickets are also available at www.etix.com and 1-800-514-3849. Must be 21 or older to attend.

Submitted by Pala Casino Spa Resort.

Grammy Award-winning Kool & the Gang are bringing their music to Pala Casino Spa Resort on July 28. Valley News/Courtesy photo

Elton John, The Early Years tribute band warms the hearts of visitors to The Nature Education Foundation at the Santa Rosa Plateau

Tony Ault

Staff Writer

Singer Elton John played by Kenny Metcalf brought a sold out crowd to its feet in applause for his renditions of Eltons’ famous songs at the first summer tribute band concert hosted by the The Nature Education Foundation at the Santa Rosa Plateau July 1.

Metcalf and his band played a number of Elton John’s best known songs like “Rocket Man,” “That’s What Friends are For” and “Little Jeannie” that brought friends, visitors and children to the dance area in front of the Pavilion stage behind the Plateau’s Visitor Center. Other songs from the era, such as Beatles hits, were also performed.

The Early Years Band accompanying Metcalf on the piano included Larry Hampton on guitar, Brian Paulson on bass, Rolly Devore on drums and vocalists Sharlene Lupton and Stefanie Bringnoni who showed their musical skill throughout the performance.

The dance area was filled with smiling dancers, some in glittering costumes and shiny colorful battery lights for the occasion. Many wore costume glasses like Elton uses that were handed out at the entrance.

Little children held in their parents arms or holding hands danced in delight to the music.

Jon Hunneman, a new member of the TNEF board of directors and former radio announcer acted as the night’s emcee announcing the winners of a 50-50 drawing and an auction that offered an interpreted VIP tour for six people of the Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve. The night’s performance was sponsored by Semnar & Hartman’s Jared Hartman and co-sponsored by Winchester and Associates Insurance Brokers.

The hour before the performance, early visitors looked over the many wildlife paintings and pieces of art for sale by local artists which bring generous donations to the TNEF. Each performance of the TNEF Summer Concert Series for the next five Saturdays will feature the art show before the show. All the net proceeds from the art show and concerts will be used to further the nonprofit foundation’s purpose to “educate and empower youth to appreciate, preserve and protect nature.”

Thousands of 3rd grade students from area school districts have had the opportunity to personally visit the plateau with their teachers while

National Charity League members offer popcorn to a visitor at the Elton John, The Early Years tribute performance at the Santa Rosa Plateau. The teens and their mothers volunteer to help at the event and others in the community.

high school students have received scholarships and are engaged in nature studies for credit on the reserve.

This Saturday, July 8, the TNEF will be presenting the Highwayman tribute show featuring Tony Suraci and his large band performing music from many great “Outlaw’ ‘country singers such as Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings and Merle Haggard. It will be a 2-hour encore for the group that has appeared before on the Plateau

Valley News/Tony Ault photos

Pavilion to the pleasure of many Tickets are on sale for the event at $55 per person.

Other tribute bands performing this summer will be Private Eyes, the Premier Tribute to Hall & Oates on July 15; Uptown a Tribute to Motown,Soul, and R&B on July 22; Surf’s Up, a premier Beach Boys tribute band on July 28 and Bee Gees Gold, a Bee Gees tribute band on August 5. VIP tickets for tables at the out-

door performances are available wi th TNEF suggesting visitors bring their own lawn chairs, a warm jacket and hard toed shoes since they are outdoor performances. VIP visitors are offered tables for their own groups. Call 951-319-2998 or email info@srpnef.org for more information and membership offers. Beer, Wine and soft drinks are offered for sale.

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

Kenny Mecalf playing the famous singer composer Elton John, plays his grand piano and sings at the start of the Summer Concert series at the Santa Rosa Plateau.

Visitors happily dance to the music at The Nature Education Foundation’s Summer Concert at the Santa Rosa Plateau.

Kenny Metcalf on Piano as Elton John and his Early Years Band, Larry Hampton, Brian Paulson, Sharlene Lupton, Stefanie Brignon and Rolly DeVore at the Summer Concert at the Santa Rosa Plateau.

Talent shines at the 15th annual Lip Sync Contest

Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians Special to the Valley News

As Soboba Tribal Council Vice Chairwoman Geneva Mojado welcomed hundreds of guests to the annual Lip Sync Contest presented by Soboba Casino Resort and the Soboba Foundation, she reflected on how it all began. “None of this would be possible without Rose Salgado who started this event 15 years ago and was one of the first performers, lip syncing to a Supremes tune,” she said. Soboba Foundation President Dondi Silvas echoed the tribute to Salgado by saying she had the vision to support many nonprofits in the valley that needed help with funding for their services and support. “Rose envisioned bringing the community together for a fun, friendly night of lip-sync competition,” Silvas said. “Organizations could compete for cash prizes and bring awareness to the community of the services they have to offer.”

In the beginning, the event was held at AC’s Lounge at the old Soboba Casino. Rose entertained everyone with memorable performances and co-hosting antics with her friend Andrew Vallejos, who co-hosted this year’s event with Soboba Foundation Vice President Catherine “Cat” Modesto.

A dozen nonprofits got to show off the culmination of hours of rehearsal in front of a packed Soboba Casino Resort Event Center and four judges. Julie Arrietta-Parcero serves as Soboba Foundation treasurer and has always been passionate about giving back to the community. Soboba Casino Resort Assistant General Manager Jason Cozart was looking forward to seeing which nonprofit would come out on top. Soboba Tribal Executive Officer Steven Estrada appreciates the creativity demonstrated by the performers. Michelle Modesto returned by popular demand as one of the most charismatic judges in Lip Sync Contest history. Having previously served on the Soboba Foundation board, she knows the importance of community involvement.

Participants were American Cancer Society-Relay for Life, Boxing for Christ, EEK Fitness, EXCEED, Global Society for Female Entrepreneurs, Greater San Jacinto Valley Chamber of Commerce, Hemet-San Jacinto Chamber of Commerce, Let Them Be Little Feline Rescue, MilVet, San Jacinto Education Foundation, San Jacinto Unified School District and Valley Community Pantry.

To add to the evening’s excitement, 15 lucky audience members won cash when their ticket numbers were randomly called during the night. They won $100 to $500 each, based on their blind envelope selection. As in previous contests, there were many raffle prizes available but this year, drawn numbers were posted in the lobby and winners picked up their prizes at the SCR Gift Center.

Each organization performed in random order and gave their all during their time on stage. The first-place winner of $10,000 was American Cancer Society-Relay for Life. The popular group also earned the $1,000 Crowd Favorite award, voted on through QR codes available at each table.

Cathi Hill, Senior Development Manager for ACS-Relay for Life, said her heart skipped a beat with the greatest feeling ever when the announcement was made. “I truly believe that being named people’s choice is by far the top award a team can win; such an honor.”

The group put together an intricate and fun skit that featured several music genres from the past and played homage to the “Back to the Future” film franchise. The act was created by Daniel Aponte, who “retired” his “boy band” routines that consistently placed first through the years. This year, the foursome included Ralph, Samuel and Travis but the overall skit showed the added talents of Roman Gutierrez as Dr. Emmett Brown and Fel McCoy who played Marty McFly.

Judge Modesto said, “I love to laugh and I’m literally in tears right now – you did a great mash-up of songs with movie moments in between.” Arrietta-Parcero said, “You brought a great act back and you are always entertaining.”

Hill said when Daniel decided to retire the act last year, she just couldn’t let him and the boys go.

“With a lot of pleading and his big heart for the American Cancer Society, Daniel made the decision to come back in a different way, and that he did,” she said.

Aponte said the decision to retire was because he didn’t want people to get tired of the act and it takes a lot of time and work to put these shows on. “I decided to come back because I love performing and being creative and most of all the feeling of helping American Cancer Society raise money is priceless,” he said.

“I have lost family members to cancer, so this means a lot to me personally.”

Hill said the group’s winnings will go to the mission of the Society for research, education, patient services and advocacy

Second place and $5,000 was awarded to MilVet, a nonprofit that provides resource information, veteran assistance and military care packages to deployed troops. Performing “The Greatest Showman,”

Daniel “DJ” Aponte took the role of ringmaster and led this group as well. Others were Jackie Aponte, Danny Kessler, Aika Kessler and Mayra Lewis.

Modesto said, “Every single one of you owned your spot; this is what we came for.” Estrada said from their costumes to their facial expressions, everything was on point and Cozart said it was amazing and they just set the bar for the evening.

Raven L. Hilden, MilVet Founder and CEO, said the winnings will help the organization continue shipping military care packages to deployed men and women serving our country overseas. “We send care packages every month to more than 100 individuals in all branches of the military, filled with special request items and letters from youth and the community,” she said.

This was the nonprofit’s third year competing in the contest, which placed fourth during their first and second appearances. Hilden said they look forward to doing even better next year.

“I love that Soboba supports local nonprofit organizations through this event. All of the performers are always so entertaining, and we appreciate the opportunity to take part in such an amazing event,” Hilden said. “We all had a great time while supporting such important causes in our valley.”

Third place and $2,500 went to Let Them Be Little Feline Rescue who performed a steamy version of “He Had it Coming” from the musical “Chicago.” Diane Hockenberry, Christine Bauder, Diana Serrano, Maria Serrano, Dina McLain and Carol Orozco each took a frontand-center solo. Orozco said Diane Hockenberry loves the song and thought it would wow the crowd, which it did. “As for the props and dancing, others within our group were giving us ideas on props, Dina worked on our moves to sync to the song at the end, and each performer came up with their own moves during their part,” she said.

Once they decided on the song, they rehearsed twice a week after work. Orozco said the winnings will be used to spay and neuter felines within the rescue to get them ready for adoption. This is the group’s third year competing and first time making the top four.

“The highlight for us is getting together as a group to raise money for the rescue that we all are involved with and having family and friends supporting us,” Orozco said. “After we performed, we all thought, this is something we never thought we would do for our foster kittens – being up on stage and performing for over 600 people.

As for most of us, it’s out of our comfort zones, but we will continue to submit every year. We all love the energy from all nonprofits and the overall show. Every group brings everything to the stage.”

Fourth place and $1,500 was earned by the Greater San Jacinto Valley Chamber of Commerce. Taking on Bruno Mars, they brought their “Uptown Funk” to the stage and wowed the crowd. There were eight performers in all: Rick Baker, Valerie Vandever, Sharon Durbin, Veronica Hawkes, Gerry Castro, Clarisa Sanchez and the husbandand-wife team of Ed and Brenda Krietz.

Rehearsing the moves crafted by Baker, the group spent 125 hours rehearsing every Wednesday night since January. “We plan on using the $1,500 towards office supplies and scholarships for local high schools for 2024 graduates,” Vandever said.

Judge Arrietta-Parcero said they “brought a lot of energy to the room” and Cozart commented they “blew it out of the water” with their performance. “We loved the audience response to our song and enjoyed the judges’ reaction and

positive feedback,” Vandever said. “We are already putting together 2024’s lip sync act, so watch out! We plan on going from fourth place to first!”

Those who didn’t place in the top four received $500 and a certificate for what made them stand out. Boxing for Christ, Most Entertaining; EEK Fitness, Best Song; EXCEED, Most Original; Global Society for Female Entrepreneurs, Best Choreography; Hemet-San Jacinto Cham-

ber of Commerce, Most Creative; San Jacinto Education Foundation, Best Props; San Jacinto Unified School District, Best Costumes; and Valley Community Pantry, Most Dramatic.

The Hemet Concert Association submitted an application to appear in the Lip Sync Contest for the first time, but President Tom Garnella said two ladies who initially were interested and willing to perform decided it was more than they

would feel comfortable doing once they realized all that was involved – choreography, props, costumes, etc. “The HCA is busy preparing for its 50th Anniversary season with our first 2023-2024 concert on Oct. 15,” he said. This goes to show the dedication of all the organizations that were able to put in the time and effort to entertain everyone at the 15th annual Lip Sync Contest.

MilVet performs The Greatest Showman at the 15th annual Soboba Lip Sync Contest on June 16. They took home $5,000 for their second-place win. Valley News/Robert A. Whitehead photos

Valley Community Pantry was voted Most Dramatic for their rendering of “Lean on Me” and depicting “I’ll share your load, if you just call me” and other lyrics so meaningfully.

American Cancer Society-Relay for Life performers are joined by Soboba Foundation members to claim their $10,000 first-place finish and $1,000 for being named people’s choice.

Members of the Greater San Jacinto Valley Chamber of Commerce channel their inner Bruno Mars during this year’s Soboba Lip Sync Contest at the Soboba Casino Resort Event Center.

Three tips to help men make health a priority this summer

Dr. Amit Arwindekar Medical Director UnitedHealthcare Global

Summer is a great time to focus on fitness, especially for men. While for some men, their health may be a secondary concern, the summer months offer an opportune time to help raise awareness of the health challenges men face and encourage them to take action to improve their well-being.

For instance, compared to women, men may experience some health conditions at higher rates, including heart disease, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. By highlighting this fact and encouraging men to take an active role in their well-being, it is possible to help address these health issues earlier and avoid complications that may diminish quality of life.

Here are three tips men can consider to help improve their wellbeing this summer and throughout the year.

Stay active and enjoy the summer weather

Getting active may be a great way to prioritize your physical health and mental well-being, and you may have fun while doing it. Federal guidelines recommend men ages 18 to 64 get 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity, 75 minutes of vigorous activity or a combination of both per week, along with strength training.

For men 65 and over, it’s good to add in balance activities that may help reduce the risk of falls. To help make physical activity as fun as possible this summer, consider golfing, kayaking, tennis, swimming or hiking to get moving and spend time with family and friends. Along with the physical benefits, an active lifestyle may have positive impacts on your mental well-being too.

Know when to take it easy

Taking time to de-stress may be a beneficial part of any healthy lifestyle, whether it’s a backyard barbecue, a staycation or working on a hobby. Taking time to rest and recover may support physical and mental well-being. Importantly, research shows that men may be less likely to get care for mental health concerns, so it’s important to look for signs that you or someone you love may need support.

Potential indicators of depression may include irritable or angry moods, unexplained aches and pains, self-criticism and bad or dangerous behavior. Additionally, some men may be more inclined to push themselves during physical activities. Whether you’re engaging in a friendly pickleball match or training for an upcoming endurance race, like a 10K, listen to your body and take it slow if you need to.

Don’t forget about preventive care

In a recent survey, 50% of men said annual wellness visits are part of their regular care routine. In fact, men across all ages may be less likely to engage with a primary care physician compared to women, with this gap most pronounced among men in their 20s and 30s. Preventive care is an important addition to any wellness routine, even if you feel healthy, and can help detect potential health

issues earlier. Men should be on the lookout for a variety of health issues that tend to increase in frequency as they age, including kidney stones, gout and certain cancers. If getting to the doctor is a challenge due to a packed schedule or other issues, consider a virtual visit, which may be a good option for both primary and urgent care. Virtual visits can help manage chronic

conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes as well as common acute issues such as fever or rash, making it possible to get medical support from the comfort of home or on the go.

As we celebrate summer and the important role men play in our families and our communities, considering these tips may be a good way for men of all ages to make health a priority this year.

Why National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month is important

Scott Knight, Education Specialist and Division Director

The Jason Foundation

We observe National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month each July to bring awareness to the unique struggles that racial and ethnic minority communities face regarding mental illness in the United States. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health encourages state, tribal, and local leaders, community-based organizations, faith leaders, healthcare providers and individuals to educate their communities regarding mental health stigma.

According to data from the CDC, suicide was the third leading cause of death for African Americans ages 10-24 in 2020. The suicide rate is four times greater for African American men than women. African American females in grades 9-12 were 60% more likely to attempt suicide than white females.

In 2020, suicide was the second leading cause of death for Native Americans ages 10-24. The overall rate of death from suicide for Native American adults is about 20% higher than for white adults.

Native Americans had the highest suicide rate of any ethnic group in 2021. In 2019, adolescent Native American females, ages 15-24, had a death rate that was five times higher than white females in the same age group. In that same period, Native American males 15-24 had a death rate by suicide that was twice that of white males in the same age group.

In 2020, suicide was the second leading cause of death for Hispanics ages 10-24. Suicide attempts for Hispanic girls, grades 9-12, were 30% higher than that of white girls of the same age.

From 2018-2021, suicide rates among youth aged 10-24 increased by 36% among African Americans, 16% for Native Americans, and 8.2% for Hispanics. By comparison, the suicide rate for white Americans decreased by 3.9%.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness reports that despite the need, only one in three African American adults with mental illness receive treatment. Socioeconomic factors can also play a key role. In 2020, 10.4% of African American adults had no health insurance. Among Native Americans, suicide remains highly stigmatized and may be affected by myths and misunderstandings such as: talking about suicide will make it happen, suicidal ideation is a cry for attention, and the belief

that a person with a strong family would never end their life. Each of these are false. More than half of all Hispanic adults ages 18-25 will not receive treatment for mental illness. Reasons for this may include language barriers, less health insurance coverage, legal status, the stigma that goes with mental illness, and acculturation.

For more information about National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, please visit National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month — Health Dis-

parities (hhs.gov). The Jason Foundation is also a valuable resource. The Jason Foundation is dedicated to the prevention of suicide prevention through education and awareness programs. For more information on how you can help a loved one or friend struggling with mental illness or suicidal ideation, please visit www.jasonfoundation. com. All programs that The Jason Foundation offers are available at no cost.

Submitted by The Jason Foundation

Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District undergoes regional water reclamation facility expansion

LAKE ELSINORE – Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District continues to undergo a major wastewater treatment plant expansion of the Regional Water Reclamation Facility. At the June 8 board meeting, the Board of Directors approved a $217 million contract for the expansion of the RWRF by 4 million gallons per day, allowing for future growth in the EVMWD service area, and meeting updated State of California regulatory requirements.

“The EVMWD Board’s approval awarding a contract for the plant expansion will help the district meet the area’s increasing growth and position us for future needs,” shared EVMWD General Manager, Greg Thomas. “Our service area is only 35% built out, as state and federal regulations continue to change.”

In 2019, EVMWD completed a variety of necessary upgrades to the plant and to its distribution control system. EVMWD is now moving into the next phase of the RWRF project, with Shimmick Construction Company, Inc. from Irvine, heading up the expansion project.

EVMWD is committed to improving and expanding aging infrastructure to ensure reliability of services now and into the future. Key RWRF improvements include:

• Addition of a new fine screen facility

• Two new aeration basins

• A new membrane bioreactor facility

• A new ultraviolet disinfection facility

• A new belt press building

• Expansion of headworks

• Expansion of the influent pump station

• New odor control facilities

In 2021, EVMWD’s board of directors secured $129.8 million in state low-interest loan funding for the expansion of the RWRF. These funds ensure that the community’s wastewater treatment and recycled water needs are met through 2025 and beyond. The funding saves approximately $50 million dollars in interest expenses over the next 30 years that leads to direct long-term savings for ratepayers.

First constructed in 1985, the RWRF has undergone expansions in 1998 and 2003. Currently, the

EVMWD approves major investment in infrastructure expansion

LAKE ELSINORE - The Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District board of directors approved $1.65 million in capital improvement projects aimed at improving and expanding vital services for the communities within the District. These projects have also received funding from grants and lowinterest loans secured by EVMWD, helping reduce impacts to rates.

Recognizing the vital importance of reliable and sustainable water service, Andy Morris, President of the EVMWD Board of Directors, emphasized the significance of investing in critical infrastructure. “By prioritizing these projects now, we can continue to guarantee our communities will have access to uninterrupted water and sewer services 24/7,” Morris stated.

In the next several months, EVMWD plans to commence work on the B-Series sewer Lift Station project. This project will evaluate the current conditions of the lift stations and recommend appropriate improvements to enhance their effi-

ciency and long-term effectiveness.

Several other improvement projects have also been scheduled, including the Tomlin Pipeline Improvement Project, the Backflow Device Replacement Project, and the Summerly Well Rehabilitation Project.

Over the next five years, EVMWD is committed to investing over $586 million into local infrastructure projects, aiming to significantly improve water and sewer services.

“Water and sewer services are vital for any community’s wellbeing,” said EVMWD General Manager, Greg Thomas. “Through the approval of these projects and utilization of grant funding and low-interest loans, EVMWD will continue to support thriving communities with robust water and sewer systems.”

For m ore information about EVMWD projects and services, please visit www.evmwd.com.

Subm itted by Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District

plant can treat 8 million gallons of wastewater per day, once plant expansion is complete it will be able

to handle up to 12 million gallons per day. The plant expansion is expected to be completed in 2026.

Favorites for summertime meals include fresh corn pudding and easiest chocolate torte ever!

Judith Bell

Food Editor

When you have the time, please consider making fresh corn pudding as an accompaniment to any grilled meat, fish, or shellfish. The time you’ll need is in the baking as putting it together might take 10 minutes...tops!

One tip: to cut corn from the cob, place one piece of corn in a medium bowl. Cut the kernels off starting halfway down the cob. Then turn corn and remove the remainder.

The baking casserole might be your fanciest as the pudding will go from the oven to the table for serving.

Fresh corn pudding

• 2 cups fresh corn cut from the cob*

1 tablespoon flour

1 tablespoon sugar

1 tablespoon butter, melted

3 eggs, slightly beaten

1⁄2 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon pepper 1 1⁄2 cups

half and half

*About 5 ears of corn

Combine all of the ingredients in the order given. Butter a 1 1⁄2 quart round casserole dish.

Pour mixture into the casserole dish. Set the casserole in a shallow pan of very hot water. Set the pan with the casserole into the middle of a 325-degree oven. Bake for 1 to 1 1⁄4 hours or until a knife inserted midway between the edge of the casserole and center comes out clean (like a custard). Remove from the oven. Allow to set about 15 minutes. 4 servings

A fancy easy torte is elegant. It is so good looking that you’d never expect it to be a frozen pound cake simply “dressed up” with a spreadable chocolate sauce. This torte rescues the busy cook. Give it a try next time you want an impressive dessert.

Fancy easy chocolate torte

1 Regular Sara Lee frozen classic pound cake (10.75 ounces)

1 (6-ounce) package semisweet chocolate morsels

• 1/3 cup boiling water

• 4 egg yolks

• 2 teaspoons cognac, rum, or vanilla

• 1 stick unsalted butter, softened

Slightly thaw pound cake and cut into 3 or 4 layers (4 layers most impressive). Melt chocolate morsels in boiling water.

In a medium glass or metal bowl, beat egg yolks until light and lemon colored. Blend in melted chocolate morsels and cognac or other flavoring. Beat in softened butter until light and fluffy (If mixture has cooled, warm just enough over simmering water so that the butter can be beaten in).

Beat mixture over ice water until mixture is of spreading consistency.

Use mixture to fill layers and top of sliced pound cake. Decorate the top of the torte as desired. Refrigerate until 20 minutes prior serving. 6-8 servings.

EVMWD RWTF expansion will increase plant capacity and recycled water production at its Lake Elsinore location. Valley News/Courtesy photo

Submitted by Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District.

Monsta Snow selected as Menifee’s June Business Spotlight

MENIFEE – The City of Menifee announced “Monsta Snow” as the June Business Spotlight, a program that is a part of the Economic Development Department’s B3 (Building Better Businesses) program.

Monsta Snow is a family-owned boba tea and dessert shop. Owners Brian and Laura Spencer opened its flagship location in Murrieta in 2017. In 2022, they opened their second location, “Monsta Snow too,” to bring their love of boba tea and Asian desserts to their hometown of Menifee. Monsta Snow offers cold brew tea, milk tea, freshly made boba soaked in brown sugar and honey, as well as a variety of creamy and milky-flavored Taiwanese snow (similar to ice cream, but lighter). Monsta Snow also offers a bubble waffle, which is a popular egg waffle street snack that can be found throughout Hong Kong. They use this as a base for the Taiwanese snow, almost like a waffle cone.

Additionally, they serve savory eats such as fries, cheese curd, lumpia, crispy tofu, and much more.

Laura Spencer, like many after college, was not certain of what her future entailed and began working at a boba shop. Ten years later, after starting a family and moving to Menifee, Laura still felt a strong connection to working in the boba industry. The calling to share the Asian culture and its delectable desserts with their beloved community became evident to her, and Menifee presented an opportunity to fulfill this passion.

Monsta Snow’s sweetness extends further through their support of the younger generation, and they have also created a space for those with interests in Asian culture.

Monsta Snow has hosted multiple school and club fundraisers, donated rewards for students and school programs, as well as supported local sports programs. The business has

also hosted multiple events including K-pop (Korean Pop Music) cup sleeve events and anime/car meets.

“Monsta Snow has been a valuable addition to our city. They have created a place for those with similar interests, allowing them to form a tight-knit community,” said District 2 Councilmember Ricky Estrada. “Thank you for contributing to a more united Menifee and for always going above the call of business.”

Fo r more information about Monsta Snow, please visit www. monstasnow.com . To view their Business Spotlight video, please visit https://youtu.be/aebHFSlCKog.

The City of Menifee Business Spotlight is a free business recognition program to create awareness for the variety of local businesses and their contributions to the Menifee community. Chosen applicants, who are nominated by the

Menifee’s adopted budget makes investments in public safety and infrastructure enhancements Commissioner

MENIFEE – To meet the challenges of the Top Boomtown in California, the City of Menifee’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2023/2024 and 2024/2025 Operating and Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Budgets make impactful investments in enhancing services to the community while ensuring the funding of critical projects that will enhance the overall quality of life of Menifee residents and businesses. At $266 million over 2 years, the city’s first biennial budget represents the largest in the city’s history. The budget also reflects a cautiously optimistic financial outlook, with steadily increasing revenues against the backdrop of an overall uncertain national and local economy.

Balancing the diverse needs of the Menifee community, while ensuring strategic and fiscally responsible financial management, remains a fundamental element of the city’s approach in the development of its budget. To that end, the newly adopted two-year budget aligns with strategic priorities identified in the 2023-2028 Strategic Plan approved by the Menifee City Council in April 2023, with a strong focus on public safety and infrastructure.

Public safety continues to be a high priority for the city and represents approximately 55% of the total budget. Since its launch in July 2020, the Menifee Police Department has become an award-winning agency that has attracted experienced officers from across the country. The two-year budget allocates the funding

and resources necessary for Menifee Police Department to continue providing exceptional service with over 90 sworn officers and 24 non-sworn employees.

“Our goal is to make Menifee one of the safest cities in the nation,” said Councilmember Lesa Sobek. “This budget reflects our City Council’s support for our first responders and gives them the resources necessary to continue protecting and serving our community.”

Infrastructure is also a key priority and the budget reflects strategic investments in projects that will help alleviate traffic congestion and improve the quality of life for residents in Menifee. The city has adopted a very aggressive five-year Capital Improvement Program that has identified 191 projects totaling over $700 million dollars. The newly adopted two-year budget allocates $33 million in funding for 53 total projects, which include the continued construction of the Holland Road Overpass, the Bradley Bridge over Salt Creek, and the Civic Center (Central Park) parking lot.

“As one of the fastest growing cities in California, we must continue to invest in our infrastructure and ensure that we plan for the future of Menifee,” said City Manager Armando Villa. “This budget lays the foundation for our City staff to continue building a safe, attractive, interconnected, and economically prosperous community.”

Submitted by the city of Menifee

SACRAMENTO - Insurance

Commissioner Ricardo Lara announced on Thursday, June 29, he has awarded $50,545,239 in grants to 34 district attorney offices representing 44 counties in California to combat insurance fraud. Under Commissioner Lara’s leadership, these grants, funded through annual employer assessments, support law enforcement efforts in investigating and prosecuting fraud and increase outreach to our communities. Commissioner Lara also awarded an additional $400,000 in grants to protect consumers, the majority of whom are seniors, from abuse involving the sale of individual life and annuity products as part of the Life and Annuity Consumer Protection Program.

“Insurance fraud continues to be a drain on our economy. Partnership between my department’s i nvestigators and local law enforcement is crucial in fighting fraud and educating the public,” said Commissioner Lara. “These annual grants continue to show my department’s long-standing commitment to investigating and working with our law enforcement partners to combat fraud and protect consumers, businesses, and the insurance marketplace.”

Since Commissioner Lara took office in 2019, the department has particularly focused these grants on increasing outreach throughout the state, especially to our

state’s diverse and underserved communities. These grants also fund essential outreach programs for individual district attorney offices to deter fraud and increase consumer awareness. Consumers are sometimes unaware of their rights or are reluctant to exercise them. Outreach programs will educate them of those rights and of best anti-fraud practices to protect themselves and their loved ones. Visit https://www.insurance. ca.gov for information on scams consumers and businesses may be susceptible to.

The other focus for these grants is combating workers’ compensation fraud. A large part of these grants will go to the investigation and prosecution of medical provider fraud in the workers’ compensation system, protecting Californians who are unwittingly ensnared in schemes to bill for unnecessary or profit motivated medical treatment. A recent example of this type of fraud was the sentencing of former doctor, Julien Omidi, to 84 months in federal prison after a joint investigation with the Department and law enforcement partners found that he de frauded insurance companies by fraudulently submitting nearly $120 million in claims.

Department investigators also work with law enforcement partners to target employer premium fraud, employer defrauding em-

ployee fraud, insider fraud, claimant fraud, uninsured employers operating within the underground economy, and exploitation of workers. These investigations level the playing field for honest businesses and discourage future fraudulent activity, and protect all Californians. A recent example of this was the plea agreement reached with Golden Foods Inc. where the company admitted to a litany of labor violations, which includes over $437,000 in stolen wages ultimately paid back to more than 30 California workers.

The grants awarded through the Life and Annuity Consumer Protection Program protect all California consumers through the investigation of life and annuity transactions i nvolving theft, embezzlement, twisting and churning, forgery, material misrepresentations, advanced commission schemes, and identity theft. The successful investigation and prosecution of these insurance crimes play an important role in protecting consumers and deterring fraudulent activities. In a recent investigation, two co-conspirators were convicted of grand theft and ordered to pay a total of $500,000 in restitution to the family of their victim, who they defrauded and convinced to purchase unnecessary annuities.

Submitted by Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara.

Lara announces over $50.5 million in grants awarded statewide to assist law enforcement in fighting fraud

Wildomar announces new, first hotel

WILDOMAR – The developers for the hotel portion of the Baxter Village project on Wildomar Trail closed escrow Tuesday, June 27 on the site and have secured the rights to construct Marriott TownePlace Suites in that location.

This hotel will be the first one for Wildomar, and a big win for the city.

“This is very exciting news for Wildomar,” said Mayor Joseph Morabito. “Not only did we get to

announce Marriott, but it has already been announced that Sprouts will start construction soon in another part of the city; these are big names for Wildomar and we could not be happier. We anticipate this will set the pace for even more high-end names coming to town.”

American Redevelopment Solutions (ARS), based in Irvine, California, will be developing the 102-room hotel, which will sit adjacent to an 84,000 square

foot Kaiser Permanente medical office building currently under construction. ARS purchased the property from Strata Equity Group, a family-owned real estate investment company based in San Diego, California.

“We are excited to have secured the development rights to a Marriott Hotel in partnership with the City of Wildomar.” Ronald Darling, CEO, American Redevelopment Solutions, LLC said.

Metropolitan Water District grants pipeline easement to EMWD

Writer

The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California has granted an easement to the Eastern Municipal Water District for an EMWD water pipeline.

The June 13 MWD board action authorizes the granting of a permanent 40 foot wide easement northeast of Diamond Valley Lake. Eastern will pay MWD $60,000 for the fair market value for the easement area and another $6,000 for processing fees.

The 4.1-acre easement area is south of the intersection of Chambers Avenue and Palm Avenue in the City of Hemet. In October 2003

MWD granted approximately 1.7

acres to EMWD for a 20 foot wide utility easement to accommodate a 24-inch potable water pipeline at the location. The additional 40 foot wide easement will accommodate future construction, operation, maintenance, repair, and replacement of a pipeline which would run parallel to Eastern’s existing pipeline.

MWD staff determined that granting the easement would not interfere with MWD water operations, since there are no existing or future facilities proposed in this area and the surrounding land has been declared surplus by the MWD board. Any improvements proposed within the easement area will be subject to MWD review and written approval to ensure

operational compatibility. MWD will continue to own the fee simple interest in the land.

The granting of the easement itself was determined to be categorically exempt from California Environmental Quality Act review. When a pipeline is planned for construction Eastern will prepare the necessary environmental documentation and will be the lead agency for the environmental statement. In addition to MWD reviewing and approving the plans to construct the pipeline, MWD will also review and approve all plans for maintenance, major repair, or replacement work prior to the commencement of that work

“Having financed and developed several Marriott branded hotels throughout Southern California, we are keenly aware of how selective Marriott International Inc. is in the hotel site-selection process and their swift approval of the Wildomar Trail site is a testament to the city’s strong fundamentals and robust forward-looking planning and potential. We look forward to working closely with the City of Wildomar in the coming months

to finalize the design details and bring this project to fruition as soon as possible.”

The Baxter Village Project is an approved, 35-acre mixed-use project that includes the hotel and medical office building and future development of 204 apartments and 67 single family homes. Submitted by the city of Wildomar

Wine Country land rezoned for winery

Joe Naiman Writer

Four Temecula Valley Wine Country parcels totaling 53.28 acres were rezoned to allow winery use on that land.

The Riverside County Board of Supervisors approved the rezone on a 3-0 vote June 13, with Karen Spiegel and Manual Perez absent.

The supervisors also found that the previous Environmental Impact Report for the Temecula Valley Wine Country Policy Area covers the rezone and no new environmental documentation is required. The zoning of the parcels was changed from Light Agriculture, 10 acre minimum (A-1-10) to Wine Country – Winery (WC-W).

Pool Home Coming Soon

The Board of Supervisors created the Temecula Valley Wine Country Community Plan in 2014. The creation of the Temecula Valley Wine Country Community Plan amended the county’s general plan, updated design guidelines, and created new zoning classifications. Although the new zoning classifications were created, the zoning of parcels within the Temecula Valley Wine Country Policy Area was not changed. Rezoning parcels to WC-W thus brings consistency to the plan area.

The rezone approved June 13 is for 5.53-acre, 11.73-acre, 14.88acre, and 21.14-acre parcels north of Bella Vista Road, east of East Benton Road, south of Calle Jojoba West, and west of Mesa Road. None of those four lots have developed structures and all four are currently generally used for agricultural purposes.

The Rural Residential (RR) land use designation for the parcels allows for one single-family residence per five acres along with agricultural activities, limited animal keeping, limited recreational uses, compatible resource development, governmental uses, and neighborhood-serving smallscale commercial uses which are compatible with the surrounding area. The property is within the Temecula Valley Wine Country – Winery District Policy Area of the Southwest Area Plan, and the primary purpose of the Winery District is to promote the establishment of additional commercial activities which support tourism and ensure the long-term viability of the wine industry. The WC-W zone is considered highly consistent with the RR designation. The county’s Planning Commission heard the proposed rezone May 17 and voted 5-0 to recommend approval.

The rezone application did not include plans to build actual winery or accessory facilities. Any future development will require a separate application which will be reviewed and will have a public hearing if a discretionary permit is required.

Turnkey Senior Home

acres of very private land. Zoned A-2! Bring a mobile home, modular, manufactured home, or traditional build. Enjoy the tranquility and great views for a great price. They will also allow a SOLAR farm (with approved CUP).

of potential here!

offers a well designed floor plan that includes both formal living & dining rooms w/vaulted ceilings and a comfortable, spacious kitchen and family room that all open out onto the covered backyard patio, perfect for entertaining. Buyers may opt into Seven Hills Members Club that includes amenities such as a pool, spa, gym, clubhouse.

Offered at $430,000

Joe Naiman

United States wins 2023 World Lacrosse Men’s Championship in San Diego

Former Great Oak goalie has front row seat with Latvia

JP Raineri

Sports Editor

SAN DIEGO – The 2023 World Lacrosse Men’s Championship, which was presented by Rady Children’s Hospital, concluded

at Snapdragon Stadium Saturday, July 1, after eleven days of action. More than 82,000 fans attended the 107 games over 11 days of competition, which was broadcast in a record 190+ countries. This was the 14th edition of the

Team USA’s Blaze Riorden was named to the All-World team as a Goalkeeper.

international men’s field lacrosse tournament for national teams organized by World Lacrosse. Initially scheduled for 2022, it was postponed to 2023 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The 14th edition of the men’s championship featured the top 30 teams from around the world. The big story was the United States defending its title on home soil with a 10-7 victory over archrival Canada in front of a crowd of 15,112. The more local story was that former Great Oak

goalie (2020 graduate), Ryan Richters, was there to see the tournament first-hand, as a player for the Latvian team.

First things first, much like their pool play game, the gold medal game was another back-and-forth epic battle and marked the USA’s first back-to-back title since 2002 and third clinched on home soil.

World Lacrosse CEO Jim Scherr said, “Congratulations to the United States, and all of the participating teams on an incredibly competitive and

compelling world championship. People around the globe consumed this event at record levels, showing us truly how far the sport has come. Thank you to the city of San Diego, San Diego State University, and the University of San Diego for being stellar hosts, and to Joe Tsai and the entire organizing committee for their tireless work on behalf of the sport.”

Brennan O’Neill, the lone collegiate player on the USA’s

Murrieta’s Rickie Fowler wins Rocket Mortgage Classic, ends 4-year drought

JP Raineri Sports Editor

It’s been awhile since his fans have seen it, yet they, like him, have stayed the course. With the sinking of a 12-foot birdie putt on the first playoff hole of the Rocket Mortgage Classic, all Murrieta native Rickie Fowler could do was tilt his head back, exhale and smile. It was a relief for the former local sensation when he beat Collin Morikawa and Adam Hadwin Sunday, July 2, two weeks after squandering a chance at the U.S. Open.

“It’s just nice to have this one out of the way,” Fowler told the media after winning for the first time in four years. “I’m obviously going to soak this one in and celebrate a bit. It’s just been a long road.”

Fowler, who grew up as a fixture on the Temecula and Murrieta golf courses and now owns the Murrieta Driving Range, ended a career-long, 96-start championship drought after missing out on two

chances to win in June, closing with a 75 at the U.S. Open to tie for fifth and with a 69 last week at the Travelers Championship to drop into a tie for 13th.

Followed all day by a sea of orange at Detroit Golf Club, Fowler was knocked down on the leaderboard by a near recordtying-round from Morikawa. He responded on his 72nd hole of the tournament with an approach from 145 feet that left him with a 3-foot birdie putt to pull into a three-way tie with Morikawa and Hadwin at 24 under.

Fowler hit an errant tee shot that went way right in the playoff and after a drop, his approach from 184 yards out, landed just twelve feet from the cup. Morikawa was inches long on his approach and instead of having the ball spin back to the hole, it bounced into the rough.

“I truly thought I hit the perfect shot,” Morikawa said. “It just was a little juiced, went

The 2023 World Lacrosse Men’s Championship was won by Team USA at Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego with a 10-7 victory over archrival Canada.

Tournament MVP, Brennan O’Neill from Team USA, had a hat trick in a 7-5 pool play win over Canada.

a little far and

Team Latvia goalie Ryan Richters (7), a former Great Oak standout, intercepts a pass attempt by Ireland in a Pool F match during the World Lacrosse Men’s Championship tournament Saturday, June 24.

Valley News/David Canales photo Valley News/David Canales photo

Valley News/David Canales photo Valley News/Andrez Imaging

page C-2

Former Murrieta Valley Nighthawk, Rickie Fowler, drives off the ninth tee during the final round of the Rocket Mortgage Classic golf tournament at Detroit Country Club Sunday, July 2, in Detroit. Valley News/AP Photo/Carlos Osorio

Cho uses stellar play around the greens to win final start on American soil

Derryl Trujillo

Sports Writer

MURRIETA – Rak Cho does not consider himself to be the most skilled player around the greens. However, when he needed his short game the most it was there and that allowed him to overcome a shaky ball striking day, winning the 123rd California State Open at Murrieta’s Bear Creek Golf Club on Thursday, June 29 with a fourday total of 203 (-13). He prevailed by two shots over Canyon Lake’s Chad Hambright as the pair shot matching even par rounds of 72. This win also marks Cho’s final event on American soil as he will be moving to Korea next month to pursue full time status on the various Asian tours overseas. It is also Cho’s second straight top five finish at Bear Creek as he recorded a T3 finish at last year’s Korn Ferry Tour second stage qualifying event. After birdie at three, which stretched his two-shot lead to four after a Hambright bogey, Cho made a pair of impressive up and downs on the fourth and fifth holes to keep it there. At four he missed the green long and hit a severely downhill chip shot to tap in distance. Then after nearly hitting his tee shot into the right penalty area on five Cho punched out sideways and made a testy putt for par. Hambright made his first birdie of the day at five but it only gained him a stroke. Cho bogeyed the short par three sixth hole and found his lead cut to three shots after Hambright got up and down from just off the green’s left edge.

“Rak did such a good job of making those up and downs that he just had to have to keep his round going and I just didn’t hit it close enough to give myself many good opportunities,” Hambright said. “I’ve had a good year (an ASHER Tour win and a pair of course records along with this runner up) so far but without status anywhere the opportunities are few and far between to get starts. My main goal is to be ready for Q-School in a couple of months and they set the course up in a manner similar to how it’ll play that week which is an encouraging sign.”

Perhaps Cho’s best up and down was on the par five ninth which shares a green with the 12th hole. He went for the green and reached but was faced with a 90-foot

downhill eagle opportunity which he would chip to tap in distance, restoring a four shot lead when Hambright failed to get up and down from the front bunker for

his birdie.

“I had basically no chance with a putter to get it within 10 feet at nine which made me decide to chip from there and I surprised myself with how close I was able to get it,” Cho said. “This is a huge confidence boost for me after battling a back injury which forced me to withdraw from the Korn Ferry Tour finals at the end of last year.”

Hambright got up and down at the par five 14th for his second birdie of the day which cut Cho’s lead to three again. With three holes to go, Cho was hanging onto a two-

shot lead after he failed to get up and down from the right greenside bunker at 15.

However, the duo traded hard fought par’s down the stretch as Cho secured the win, earning $10,500 for his victory.

Anaheim’s Brannon Farhny, a Cal State Fullerton golfer, earned low amateur honors after shooting a one under par total of 215. He beat Temecula’s Ryan Abuan by one shot for those honors, earning $1,000 in the process.

Derryl Trujillo can be reached at socaltrekkie@gmail.com

Baseball teams from Hawaii hit the area this week for BRG showcase event

JP Raineri Sports Editor

The Baseball Resource Group, which is a California nonprofit corporation founded by former MLB scouts and coaches, is providing another local opportunity for student baseball athletes to display their talent.

An inaugural tournament, dubbed the Hawaiian Baseball Classic, is happening July 5-9 in the Murrieta/Temecula area, which will give local teams an opportunity to play against teams from Hawaii’s Big Island Wood Bat Academy. Owned by Kaha Wong, father of Seattle Mariners Kolton Wong, who is a Major League Baseball infielder, The Big Island Wood Bat Academy will be bringing teams in the 14U, 16U and 18U divisions.

Local teams and players will have a chance to compete with

LACROSSE from page C-1

star-studded team, was the story of the championship game with five goals, including the go-ahead goal to make it 5-4 in the third quarter and a clutch goal with just over two minutes remaining to restore a late two-goal lead. He was named the MVP for the championship, finishing with 15 goals and five assists to tie for the most points on the U.S. team. Michael Sowers added two goals in the championship match, and goalkeeper Blaze Riorden slowed the potent Canada attack with eight saves.

Speaking of saves, that is where Richters, the former Wolfpack standout, comes in to play. While he still has ties to the Temecula Valley area, and is currently a student and player at Concordia University in Irvine, the Great Oak graduate has deep ties to the country of Latvia as well. While the small Baltic country of Latvia has become internationally famous for its volleyball, hockey, and basketball talent, the sport of lacrosse is up and coming in Latvia

some of Hawaii’s best players and be seen by MLB scouts and college recruiters. So far, according to Mishael Israel, one of BRG’s founding members, MLB teams that will be providing scouts for the event include the Pittsburgh Pirates, Arizona Diamondbacks, Chicago Cubs, San Diego Padres, New York Mets, Los Angeles Dodgers, Toronto Blue Jays, Chicago White Sox, Boston Red Sox, Atlanta Braves, and the Detroit Tigers. Colleges in attendance will be Hope International, Cal State Dominguez Hills, CSU San Bernardino, Chaffey College, MSJC, Cal State Northridge, USC, and CBU.

The tournament kicked off with a college showcase on Wednesday, July 5, at 2 p.m. at Murrieta Mesa High School. Tournament play started on Thursday, July 6 and will continue through July 8 at the Murrieta Mesa and Murrieta

with Richters saying that players will drive hours for a chance to play at the nearest field.

According to online reports, Richters hails from an athletic Latvian dynasty himself, with his family escaping during World War II, and eventually playing at the highest level all across the country.

Richters’ Latvia team finished 19th after pool play but lost to France in the first round of the placement bracket and eventually played for 21st place. As for the former Southwestern League goalie, Richters had the highest save percentage (minimum 200 minutes played) through the tournament at 65.

Also noted for their performances during the 11 days of play were USA’s Brennan O’Neill (Best Midfielder; All-World Team), Michael Sowers (Midfield; AllWorld Team), JT Giles-Harris (Defense; All-World Team), and Blaze Riorden (Goalkeeper; AllWorld Team).

Valley High School baseball fields. The Championship game is set to be played Sunday, July 9, at Temescal Canyon High School.

“On Saturday, July 8, there will be a Luau with dinner and an authentic performance from Hawaiian dancers,” says Israel. “There will also be paintball activities.”

The Luau and paintball competitions will be held at Jungle Island in Lake Elsinore. BRG’s goal is to provide optimum competition, training, and development to expose players to some of the industry’s best talent, college recruiters, and pro scouts.

For more information, please contact Coach Izzy at misrael@ baseballresourcegroup.com , or go to www.baseballresourcegroup. com.

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

high school and pro scouts during BRG’s Hawaiian Baseball Classic this week in Southwest Riverside County.

About World Lacrosse World Lacrosse is the IOCrecognized international governing body for lacrosse, responsible for providing effective

JP

Former Great Oak goalie, Ryan Richters, playing with Team Latvia, looks for an open teammate during the World Lacrosse Men’s Championship Saturday, June 24. Valley News/Andrez Imaging

Rak Cho with the 2023 California State Open Trophy at Murrieta’s Bear Creek Golf Club. Valley News/Courtesy Bryce Seiver (SCPGA Communications Director)

2023 California State Open champion Rak Cho with his winner’s check

Thursday, June 29, at Murrieta’s Bear Creek Golf Club. Valley News/Courtesy Bryce Seiver (SCPGA Communications Director)

Rak Cho hits a putt in final round action of the 123rd California State Open at Murrieta’s Bear Creek Golf Club. Valley News/Andrez Imaging

Canyon Lake’s Chad Hambright hits a tee shot in Thursday’s final round of the 123rd California State Open at Murrieta’s Bear Creek Golf Club. Valley News/Andrez Imaging

Local prep baseball players will get the opportunity to display their skills in front of dozens of

Valley News/Time Stood Still Photography

Men’s Baseball College World Series:

Where every player went to California high schools

Thirty-seven players that competed in Omaha played prep ball in California

Academy (Sunnyvale) — Oral

While there was no direct representation from Southwest Riverside County, thirty-seven players that competed in Omaha played prep ball in California, including seven for the champion LSU Tigers.

JP Raineri

Sports

Editor

OMAHA, NE – While eight teams qualified for this year’s Men’s College Baseball World Series, it all came down to Louisiana State University and the University of Florida for the title. In what was a historic series, where both teams collectively scored more runs than any other College World Series before them, LSU blew out Florida 18-4 in a

Valley News/NCAA Courtesy photo

winner-take-all Game 3 Monday, June 26. The LSU Tigers had a chance to do this the day before, but instead lost by 20 runs. With just a night’s sleep to shake off the loss, LSU handed the Florida Gators the same treatment until the final out. Consider the 2017 finals loss against the Gators officially avenged, too.

The state of Florida, with the University of Florida representing to the fullest, was the hotbed of this year’s College World Series

showcasing 48 players hailing from the Sunshine State, including 30 playing for the Gators. As for West Coast representation, seven of the eight teams had at least one California player as well, with 37 overall. While no there was no direct representation from Southwest Riverside County, there was plenty from Orange County and the Los Angeles area. As for future local LSU Tigers, Vaughn Neckar of Vista Murrieta (2025) is a verbal commit, though his MLB draft stock could supersede that commitment when the time comes. That situation would be much like that of Menifee’s Mikey Romero, who was an LSU commit that was drafted last year in the first round by the Boston Red Sox.

Listed below is the breakdown of the number of players, including their names, high schools attended and the colleges where they play.

Temp Becerra, Buchanan (Clovis) — Stanford

Karson Bowen, Orange Lutheran (Orange) — TCU

Drew Bowser, HarvardWestlake (Studio City) — Stanford

Nic Bronzini, California (San Ramon) — LSU

Blake Burke, De La Salle (Concord) — Tennessee Joshua Caravalho, King’s

Roberts

Bryce Collins, Hart (Newhall)

— LSU

Riley Cooper, Clovis North (Fresno) — LSU

Drew Dowd, Serra (San Mateo)

— Stanford

Nick Dugan, St. Bernard’s (Eureka) — Stanford

Nathan Fleischli, Sacred Heart

Prep (Atherton) — Stanford

Carter Graham, Chaminade (West Hills) — Stanford

Trevor Haskins, Valley Christian (San Jose) — Stanford

Chase Hoover, San Marcos (Santa Barbara) — TCU

Thatcher Hurd, Mira Costa (Manhattan Beach) — LSU

Kyle Joye, Saint Francis (Mountain View) — Wake Forest

Nicolas Lopez, Serra (San Mateo) — Stanford

Quinn Mathews, Aliso Niguel

(Aliso Viejo) — Stanford

Gabe Miranda, Orange Lutheran (Orange) — TCU

Malcolm Moore, McClatchy (Sacramento) — Stanford

Jaden Noot, Sierra Canyon (Chatsworth) — LSU

Toran O’Harran, Rocklin — Stanford

Eddie Park, Valley Christian (San Jose) — Stanford

Alberto Rios, St. John Bosco (Bellflower) — Stanford

Louis Rodriguez, Orange

Lutheran (Orange) — TCU

Jake Sapien, Buhach Colony (Atwater) — Stanford

Charlie Saum, Thousand Oaks — Stanford

Paul Skenes, El Toro (Lake Forest) — LSU

Braeden Sloan, Woodcreek (Roseville) — TCU

Sam Stoutenborough, Palma (Salinas) — TCU

Matt Swartz, Edison (Huntington Beach) — Stanford

Jordan Thompson, Helix (La Mesa) — LSU

Angelo Tonas, Sacred Heart Prep (Atherton) — Virginia

Tommy Troy, Los Gatos — Stanford

Ty Uber, Ponderosa (Shingle Springs) — Stanford

Jacob Widener, San Marcos — Oral Roberts

Tommy Wilcox, Corona del Mar (Newport Beach) — Tennessee

Complete info from the 2023 Men’s College Baseball World Series can be found online at www. ncaa.com/live-updates/baseball/ d1.

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

Carnish wins Father’s Day Weekend race hours after father’s heart transplant

Writer

PERRIS – After making the decision to race at Perris Auto Speedway the day his father had a heart transplant, Menifee driver

Kris Carnish won the Factory Stocks main event on Father’s Day Weekend.

Carnish took the lead in the fifth lap of the 20-lap main event June 17 and remained in first place. He finished second in his heat race that night.

Kris Carnish is 41. His father, Mat, is 64. Two years ago, Mat Carnish had a stroke, and in July 2021 he underwent a quintuple heart bypass operation.

“It didn’t heal like they were hoping it would,” Kris Carnish said.

On June 10 Mat Carnish was notified that he had been approved for a heart transplant, and on June 13 his insurance company notified him that his insurance would cover the procedure. On June 15 he was notified that a heart was available and told to go to UCSD Hospital in the La Jolla area of San Diego, but Carnish was subsequently told to hold off on the trip. On June 16 Carnish was notified that two hearts which were better options were available. He arrived at UCSD Hospital about 3 p.m. on June 16 and was prepped for surgery.

The actual surgery began about 3:30 a.m. June 17. Kris Carnish had to make the decision whether to race the day of his father’s surgery. “It was up in the air,” he said.

Carnish’s father recommended that Carnish race if he needed to clear his head. The drive from UCSD Hospital to Perris Auto Speedway is approximately one and a half hours.

Other drivers and crew members and the track itself ensured that

Carnish would be ready to race if he desired. Carnish’s 1975

Camaro was taken to the track the morning of June 16, and Perris Auto Speedway promoter Don Kazarian ensured that the car could remain on the premises.

Larry Well unloaded the car June 17 and Well, David Stites, David Uraine, Chuck Becker, and Lanny Savage attended to the Camaro in Carnish’s absence.

“They were all looking over my car and adjusting a few things,” Carnish said. “If it wasn’t for those guys looking out for me, I don’t know how well my car would have done.”

The June 17 race was the first Factory Stocks race at Perris Auto Speedway since April 29, when Carnish finished third. The Factory Stocks also raced at Perris on April 8, and Carnish was second in that night’s main event. The Factory Stocks are known as the Pure Stocks at Barona Speedway, and Carnish took his Camaro to Barona for the May 27 races. He was fourth in his heat race and finished third in the B main to advance to the main event. On the seventh lap of the main event the right rear

axle of the Camaro snapped.

“I had to swap the whole rear end out,” Carnish said.

Carnish’s goal in the June 17 heat race at Perris was thus to determine how the car was handling and to ensure that all elements of the car were suitable. Heat races on the Perris half-mile dirt oval are six laps, and Carnish was satisfied with finishing second.

Buena Park driver Peyton Griffin began the June 17 main event on the pole with Ethan Kintop of Nuevo starting on the outside of the front row. Carnish took the green flag on the inside of the second row.

“I was trying to stay out of the other cars and trying to get the lead,” Carnish said. “During lap five I finally took over the lead and just stretched that lead to where I won by three-quarters to a full straightaway.”

Kintop had the lead before Carnish took over first place. In the fifth lap Carnish passed Kintop on the outside exiting turn four. “He gave me room,” Carnish said. The main event had no yellow flag cautions and restarts. “We went green to checkered,” Carnish said.

During much of the main event Carnish was thinking about racing rather than his father. “For the most part I was looking straight forward,” he said. “I was just focusing on getting my mark.”

Stites, who lives in Canyon Lake, finished second. (The previous race’s winner starts in the back, and Stites won the April 29 main event to give him the rear starting position June 17.) Kintop was the third driver to see the checkered flag. Uraine, who lives in Menifee, was the fourth racer across the finish line.

With the win not assured but under his control, Carnish’s thoughts turned to his father.

“When I got to about five laps to go it started sinking in,” he said. “The last three laps my eyes were all watery.”

Carnish also had to discuss his father’s situation during the postrace interview. Carnish was able to visit his father on Father’s Day and took his 1st place trophy with him.

Carnish showed the trophy to his father. “He instantly had a big old smile on his face,” Carnish said.

Mat Carnish also smiled when he watched the video of his

FOWLER from page C-1

just didn’t have the putter in the hand. Not that the chip wasn’t possible but would have been nice to have the putter in the hand.”

Hadwin missed a 22-foot putt and Morikawa his chip, opening the door for Fowler to close out the tournament before thunderstorms rolled over Detroit.

“I knew it was just a matter of time with how I’ve been playing,” said Fowler, who has eight top-10 finishes this season. “I’ve had a couple tough weekends where I had a chance.”

Even though Morikawa was disappointed in coming up short on a victory he has been shooting for since winning the 2021 British Open, he was happy for Fowler.

“He’s been playing phenomenal golf, it’s great to see,” he said.

“People love him.”

Morikawa’s 8-under round put him one shot back from the course record of 63. Hadwin shot a 67 and

son winning the race and being interviewed.

Kris Carnish was born in Vista and was in Escondido as a kindergarten student before moving to Murrieta prior to first grade. He graduated from Murrieta Valley High School in 2000 and moved from Murrieta to Menifee shortly afterward.

Mat Carnish never raced. Kris Carnish began his Perris Auto Speedway career as a pit crew member for Menifee driver Ken McWilliams and first drove at Perris in the four-cylinder Hornet Stocks class with a 1985 Toyota Celica. Carnish became solely a pit crew member after the Hornet Stocks division was discontinued, but the acquisition of another 1975 Camaro allowed him to return as a driver in the Factory Stocks competition. Carnish won his first main event in August 2015. He has owned the Camaro he now races for five years and has raced it since 2021.

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

Fowler a 68.

Fowler had a share of the 54hole lead last month at Los Angeles Country Club with an opportunity to win his first major and was at least a co-leader after three rounds in one tournament in each of the previous two years.

Before his breakthrough in Detroit, he had won just two of the 10 times he was the third-round leader or co-leader.

The 34-year-old Fowler physically and mentally did what was needed to earn his sixth PGA Tour victory and his first since winning the 2019 Waste Management Phoenix Open.

The fan favorite Fowler, a longtime ambassador for Rocket Mortgage, was cheered with chants of “Rick-ie! Rick-ie!” as crowds of people gathered around the 18th green hoping he would win it, and he did.

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

Joe Naiman

Kris Carnish takes the checkered flag in the Factory Stocks main event Saturday, June 17, at Perris Auto Speedway.

Kris Carnish, a former Murrieta Valley Nighthawk, racing out of Menifee, celebrates during the post-race interview. Valley News/Doug Allen photos

Murrieta’s Rickie Fowler, pictured here earlier this year at the Farmers Insurance Open. Valley News/David Canales photo

The Nature Education Foundation, Temecula Valley Woman’s Club present small grant awards

The Nature Education Foundation at the Santa Rosa Plateau and the Temecula Valley Woman’s Club presented four nonprofit agencies and schools small grant awards totaling $10,000 during the annual TNEF membership mingle, Wednesday, June 28.

In addition to the small grant awards from the Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians, Pechanga Development Corporation presented a $15,000 donation to the TNEF’s nature education programs that teach children and teens from 3rd grade through high school to preserve nature and the environment around them. The Pechanga Development Corp. was also presented the TNEF Board of Directors Special Recognition plaque during the evening for helping the TNEF financially for the past 20 years..

Receiving the special grants and their totals were; Cultivating Inclusion with a $3,900 grant; Paloma Valley High School’s Green House and ecology program, $3,900; Bundy Canyon Christian School for their nature programs, $700 and the Temecula Valley Rose Society for their classes in rose and plant care, $1,500.

Nearly 100 TNEF members at the mingle heard about the progress the TNEF at the Santa Rosa Plateau has made during its last 20 years and the more than 100,000 students who have enjoyed classes and special presentations at the Plateau Reserve on 9,000 acres above Murrieta and Wildomar. Those

classes and programs continue today with 3rd grade student visits and special nature conservation and climate change studies for high schoolers.

It was announced the Riverside County Parks and Open Space District, who manage the plateau in collaboration with California Fish and Wildlife, The Nature Conservancy and the Metropolitan Water District, have granted a long-term lease on an older manufactured home on the reserve for a future TNEF headquarters and education building. Donations are being accepted to help the TNEF refurbish the building that was once used as a ranger’s home and storage area. Visit the-nef.org/ donate to help.

The TNEF also presented a thank you recognition plaque to member Bob Inman for his many years serving on the board and being an outstanding committee chair and volunteer. TNEF member Steve Bussen was presented TNEF’s “Spirit of Gordon House Docent of the Year” Award for his many years of service and contributions.

The Nature Education Foundation at the Santa Rosa Plateau for the past 20 years has been instrumental in developing and supporting programs and projects focused on environment education, teachers who teach it and the students to learn about it through on site visits, scholarships, classroom videos, student hikes with a RivCo Parks Santa Rosa Plateau Reserve interpreter, teachers and docents.

Learn more about the TNEF at the Santa Rosa Plateau, memberships, events and programs at their website at the-nef.org.

Local students make Dean’s List at their respective schools

Evan Battle of Wildomar has been named to the Dean’s List at Rochester Institute of Technology for the 2022-23 spring semester. Battle is in the environmental science program. Students are eligible for Dean’s List if their term GPA is greater than or equal to 3.4 and have registered and completed at least 12 credit hours. Rochester Institute of Technology is a private university, located in Rochester, NY.

Amy Ellis of Sun City and Victoria Torres of Menifee have been named to Ohio University’s 2023 Spring Dean’s List. Both Ellis and Torres are students of the College of Health Sciences and Professions. Ohio University

Two local students graduate from Wichita State University with distinction

recognizes undergraduate students who complete a particular semester with a GPA between 3.5 and 3.999 with a minimum of 12 credit hours attempted for letter grades that are used to calculate GPA. Ohio University is located in Athens, OH.

Riley Franzo of Canyon Lake has been named to Western New England University’s Dean’s List for the 2023 Spring semester. Franzo, majoring in Biomedical Engineering, is one of over 570 students who achieved this mark of academic excellence. Students are named to the Dean’s List for achieving a semester GPA of 3.30 or higher. Western New England University is located in Springfield, MA.

WICHITA, KS ‒ Kevin G.

Danh from Temecula and Nathan R. Gonzalez from Winchester graduated this past spring from Wichita State University in Kansas. Danh graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, and Gonzalez earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, graduating Cum Laude.

More than 2,060 students completed a total of 2,293 degrees in spring 2023.

Undergraduate students who have attained a grade point average of 3.9 out of a possible 4.0 received the summa cum laude award; those

with an average of 3.55 received the magna cum laude award; and those with an average of 3.25 received the cum laude award.

Wichita State University is Kansas’ only urban public research university, enrolling almost 22,000 students between its main campus and WSU Tech, including students from every state in the U.S. and more than 100 countries.

Wichita State and WSU Tech are recognized for being student centered and innovation driven.

Located in the largest city in the state with one of the highest concentrations in the United States of jobs involving science, technology, engineering and math

(STEM), Wichita State University provides uniquely distinctive and innovative pathways of applied learning, applied research and career opportunities for all of our students.

The Innovation Campus, which is a physical extension of the Wichita State University main campus, is one of the nation’s largest and fastest-growing research/innovation parks, encompassing over 120 acres and is home to a number of global companies and organizations.

For more information, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter. com/wichitastate and Facebook at

Tony Ault

Staff Writer

Temecula Valley Woman’s Club member Barbara Purdy presents a $3,900 donation to Mary Ann Tams of the Cultivating Inclusion nonprofit, a special education mentor, with her daughter at The Nature Education Foundation’s member mingle June 28 at the Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Preserve.

Bundy Canyon Christian School Middle School students and their teachers are presented a $700 donation for their efforts in teaching environmental responsibility at the school by the TNEF and Temecula Valley Woman’s Club.

Heather from the Pechanga Development Corp. presents to members of the Temecula Valley Rose Society a check for $1,500 for their efforts in teaching classes for the proper rose and plant care at their facility as a part of the TNEF’s Small Grant Program.

Heather from the Pechanga Development Corp. holding a TNEF recognition award presents a $15,000 donation to TNEF President Austin Linsley and TNEF CEO Ginger Greaves for the Foundation’s work in educating young people to preserve the plateau, its heritage and the environment during Member Mingle at the Plateau Visitor Center’s patio June 28. The Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians has been a strong supporter of the TNEF since its inception more than 20 years ago.

Paloma Valley High School Science Teacher Maria Schmidt and her students receive a $3,900 small grant from the Pechanga Development Corp. and the TNEF for their work to further the study of environment and climate positive plant growth at the school.

Valley News/Tony Ault photos

Highway Update

RCTC announces CTC help for the Mid County Parkway Romona Expressway to bring major highway access to desert communities

Tony Ault

Staff Writer

Because of the tremendous growth in the mid county region, more people are traveling to and from the desert communities for housing and work. The demand for faster and better routes has been strong with preliminary work on Interstate 215 intersections already underway.

The project requires a tremendous amount of money locally that will take years to raise.

However, this past week

the California Transportation Commission set aside $44.5 million from its 2023 MPO Active Transportation Program for the region’s Mid County Connectivity Enhancement Program that includes two projects; the Mid County Parkway Ramona Expressway Project and the Metrolink Double Track Project.

“Together, these projects will provide greater access to multimodal transportation options, relieve traffic congestion, improve roadway safety, and promote clean air,” a RCTC news release says. These funds come from the Road Repair and Recovery Act of 2017, also known as SB 1.

The Mid County Parkway Ramona Expressway Project runs along the Ramona Expressway and will add one lane in both directions for 8.6 miles between

Warren Road near San Jacinto and one mile east of Rider Street near Lake Perris.

The project will also include medians, a bridge over the San Jacinto River, upgraded traffic signals, and a wildlife crossing, which should all dramatically improve safety on a road known for fatal traffic collisions.

Notably the project will help relieve traffic in the growing San Jacinto community by bolstering connections to Metrolink service on the western side. The Metrolink Double Track Project will add a second track to the Metrolink 91/Perris Valley Line between the Moreno Valley/ March Field Station and the PerrisDowntown Station allowing for increased service frequency in the future by Metrolink’s commuter trains.

California Transportation Commission

The California Transportation Commission also in announcing its $2.3 billion transportation and infrastructure bill may bring other future projects to Southwest Riverside County, particularly in the trails and bikeways program.

With that funding CTC reported it “adopted the 2023 MPO Active Transportation Program, totaling $540 million for future investments. The 134 projects approved for funding include a broad range of active

transportation infrastructure improvements, including more than 120 miles of new bikeways, 60 miles of new sidewalks, and many other improvements to intersections, crosswalks, shade and signage. More than 90% of the funding, $494 million, will fund projects benefiting disadvantaged communities, and $290 million (54%) will fund Safe Routes to School projects.”

Caltrans

The California Department of Transportation will begin work on a $4.9 million asphalt pavement rehabilitation project on State Route 62 (SR-62) between Twenty-Nine Palms and Vidal Junction, weather permitting.

The project was awarded to Calmex Engineering, Inc. of Bloomington. Crews will be working on SR-62 from State Route 177 (SR-177) in Riverside County to 1.7 miles east of Iron Mountain Pumping Plant Road near Vidal Junction in San Bernardino County. Construction will begin on July 10. Crews will be working both day and nighttime hours. The schedule of operations is Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 5 a.m.

One way traffic control with flagging and pilot vehicles will be in place. Motorists must wait for the pilot vehicle to escort motorists through the construction zone. Expect delays up to 15 minutes.

Idyllwild In Idyllwild, Caltrans begins work on a $470,000 emergency project to rehabilitate and repave State Route 243 (SR-243) in Idyllwild within the boundaries of Mount Jacinto State Park.

The project was awarded to SEMA Construction of San Diego. Crews will be working on SR-243 from just south of North Circle Drive to just north of Pine Crest Avenue.

While the project begins this month the schedule is dependent on weather and materials availability.

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.

Expect one way 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. Watch for signage alerting motorists of upcoming lane closures and construction zones.

The project duration is expected to be three weeks.

Hemet

In the Hemet and Valle Vista area beginning July 24 Caltrans

will begin work on a $51.6 million corridor improvement project on State Route 74 (Florida Ave.) . This project will repave and rehabilitate 49 lane miles, install Traffic Management Systems (TMS), upgrade curb ramps, sidewalks and driveways to ADA standards (Americans with Disabilities Act), 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 Hemet on SR-74 from Winchester Road to Fairview Avenue with a project length of 11.2 miles. Work will occur Mondays through Fridays from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m., with occasional weekend work.

Lake Elsinore Caltrans is continuing work on State Route 74 from the Riverside and Orange County border to Monte Vista Street just west of Lake Elsinore. Crews will perform work in various locations throughout the project zone.

There may be some weeknight full closures with one-way traffic control with escorts will be in place from 8 p.m. to 9:59 p.m. During the hours of 10 p.m. to 5 a.m., the route will be closed to through traffic.

Riverside County Board of Supervisors approve budget, provide new funding for short term rental ordinance enforcement, and award $316,900 to third district community organizations

RIVERSIDE COUNTY – On

Tuesday June 27, the Riverside County Board of Supervisors approved an $8.6 billion budget for the next fiscal year that will increase access to county services and ensure the continuation of vital programs for residents. In the approved budget, $1.8 million was specifically included to improve enforcement of the County’s short-term rental ordinance, a need identified by Supervisor Chuck Washington and Supervisor V. Manuel Perez.

“I support short term rentals as an option for those visiting Riverside County. We want to be confident that property owners are operating in good faith with the County and that we do our best to minimize impacts to nearby neighbors,” said Supervisor Washington. “These dollars will ensure rentals are managed properly with safety at the forefront and will allow

officers to respond to calls for assistance in a timely manner without sacrificing service to other unincorporated neighborhoods.”

The budget provides $825,000 to Code Enforcement to create a 10-person countywide team, four of whom will be dedicated to short term rental ordinance enforcement in Wine Country. To assist with this effort, $662,000 is allocated to the Sheriff’s Department to form a four-deputy dedicated “problemoriented policing” (POP) team to extend enforcement hours beyond 10 p.m. and respond to shortterm rental complaints, such as after-hours complaints of noise, disturbances of the peace, and public safety concerns.

In addition to these priorities, the approved County budget was increased 15.1% over the previous fiscal year and will provide $2.5 billion for Health Services, $2 billion for Public Safety, $1.9

billion for Human Services, and $977 million for Public Works and Community Services.

At the meeting, the Board of Supervisors also approved $2,486,000 in ARPA funding to Riverside County’s Murrieta Innovation Center (MIC), as well as the distribution of $316,900 in Third District Community Improvement Designation (CID) funds to 18 organizations whose work directly benefits residents of the Third District.

Organizations who received funding recently include: Habitat for Humanity Inland Valley for the “Home Repair & Preservation” program that offers home repairs to qualified low-income homeowners; the Community Food Pantry of Murrieta, who assists 200 families weekly, to purchase nutritious food for lowincome residents; Mil Vet for the “Military Care Packages” program

Thousands of hotel workers in Southern California are on strike, demanding better pay and benefits

LOS ANGELES (AP) —

Thousands of hotel workers in Southern California walked off the job on Sunday, July 2, demanding higher pay and better benefits in what the union is calling the largest strike in its history.

Cooks, room attendants, dishwashers, servers, bellmen and front desk agents at hotels were picketing outside major hotels in Los Angeles and Orange counties just as the summer tourist season is ramping up.

Last month, members of Unite

Here Local 11 voted 96% in favor of authorizing the strike. The union is seeking better wages, improved health care benefits, higher pension contributions and less strenuous workloads.

In addition, the union wants to create a “hospitality workforce housing fund” to help workers deal with the soaring costs of living in greater Los Angeles. Many employees report commuting hours

to work because they can’t afford to live near their jobs.

“Our members were devastated first by the pandemic, and now by the greed of their bosses,” union co-president Kurt Petersen said in a statement. “The industry got bailouts while we got cuts.”

Contracts expired midnight on Friday, June 30 at more than 60 hotels, including properties owned by major chains such as Marriott and Hilton. The strike affects about half of the 32,000 hospitality workers the union represents across Southern California and Arizona.

Last week, a deal was reached with its biggest employer, the Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites in downtown Los Angeles, which has more than 600 union workers. Union officials described the tentative agreement, which provides higher pay and increased staffing levels, as a major win for workers.

Talks with other hotels were at

a stalemate. A coalition of more than 40 hotels involved in talks accused union leaders of canceling a scheduled bargaining session and refusing to come to the table. The hotels have offered wage increases of $2.50 per hour in the first 12 months and $6.25 over four years, the group said.

“From the outset, the Union has shown no desire to engage in productive, good faith negotiations with this group,” the hotel coalition said in a statement Sunday. “The Union has not budged from its opening demand two months ago of up to a 40% wage increase and an over 28% increase in benefit costs.”

The work stoppage was expected, and the properties are “fully prepared to continue to operate these hotels and to take care of our guests as long as this disruption lasts,” said Keith Grossman, a spokesperson for the coalition.

to provide monthly care packages to military staff who are deployed overseas; the City of Murrieta Public Library for the Murrieta Public Library children’s library expansion; and First 5 Riverside County to expand service capacity for So Cal Water Babies by increasing the number of swim instructors and scholarships for children in the “Survival Float” program.

“We are extremely grateful for Supervisor Washington’s continued support of Habitat for Humanity Inland Valley,” said CEO, Tammy Marine. “With this funding and the help of our amazing volunteers, the ‘Home Repair & Preservation’ program will be able to provide home repairs to qualified low-income homeowners in unincorporated Third District communities.”

The new budget took effect on July 1, and Code Enforcement

and the Sheriff’s Department are expected to form these dedicated teams in the coming months. For more information about CID funding, visit www.rivcodistrict3. org/nonprofit-grant

Supervisor Chuck Washington represents the Third Supervisorial District on the Riverside County Board of Supervisors. The Third District covers the southwest portion of Riverside County, stretching from Anza to Temecula, and includes the cities of Menifee, Murrieta, Temecula, and Wildomar. The Third District also includes the unincorporated communities of Aguanga, Anza Valley, East Hemet, French Valley, Green Acres, Homeland, Romoland, Lake Riverside, Sage and Winchester, as well as parts of Valle Vista. For more information, visit www.rivcodistrict3.org. Submitted by Supervisor Chuck Washington

White House report says blocking sunlight can prevent global warming

Naveen Athrappully

The Epoch Times

The White House is suggesting the “possible deployment” of radical climate change techniques like artificially blocking sunlight as part of its climate change agenda despite expert warnings that such initiatives can have devastating effects on the planet.

Solar radiation modification (SRM), also known as solar geoengineering, is aimed at preventing sunlight from accelerating the warming of the planet.

“Greenhouse gasses warm the climate by blocking a portion of outgoing longwave radiation that would otherwise be emitted into space,” states the report ( pdf ), published by the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy on June 30. “By contrast, SRM cools the climate by reflecting a greater amount of incoming solar (shortwave) radiation back into space … SRM offers the possibility of cooling the planet significantly on

a timescale of a few years.”

The findings are part of a report the White House prepared in response to a mandate from last year’s $1.5 trillion spending bill. The White House said in a June 30 statement that the report “does not signify any change in policy or activity by the Biden-Harris Administration.”

Instead, “this report fulfills a Congressional mandate, and there are no plans underway to establish a comprehensive research program focused on solar radiation modification.”

Though such artificial cooling could “reverse many of the negative consequences of climate change,” the report admits that these developments can come with “ramifications which are now poorly understood.”

The document acknowledged that the research program could help the United States prepare for a “possible deployment” of SRM through public or private actors.

SRM will not undo the consequences of greenhouse gas emissions. For instance, “SRM would not ameliorate most of the impacts of ocean acidification … nor eliminate the tendency for fossil fuel burning to worsen air quality.”

In addition, “SRM might halt but

would not result in the rapid reversal of some important manifestations of climate warming, such as loss of land ice and greenhouse gas emissions from thawing permafrost.”

The report also warns about several potential negative consequences of SRM. The procedure can trigger changes in stratospheric temperatures, a rise in sea levels, acidification of oceans, and alteration in precipitation patterns. It can also affect terrestrial vegetation, biodiversity, ecosystems, crop production, and coral reefs. “Model simulations show that the chemistry of the stratosphere may change, and atmospheric circulations may intensify in ways that may lead to seasonal-scale impacts such as more frequent extreme drought or precipitation events,” the report stated. “Gaps remain in our understanding of how SRM deployments might irreversibly alter the Earth’s climate system.”

In an open letter published in January last year, a group of scientists and scholars called for an international non-use agreement on solar engineering, arguing that such a deal will “inhibit further normalization and development of a risky and poorly understood set of technologies that seek to

intentionally manage incoming sunlight at planetary scale.”

The signatories include Frank Biermann from the Copernicus Institute of Sustainable Development in the Netherlands, Melissa Leach from the Institute of Development Studies at the University of Sussex in the UK, and David Schlosberg from the University of Sydney in Australia.

“There are serious concerns about ‘locking in’ solar geoengineering as an infrastructure and policy option as well as about militarization and security,” the letter warned.

“Solar geoengineering is not necessary. Neither is it desirable, ethical, or politically governable in the current context. With the normalization of solar geoengineering research moving on with rapid speed, a strong political message to block these technologies is needed. And this message must come soon.”

Methods of SRM, US Implementation

The White House document details multiple methods to deploy SRM initiatives. One method is stratospheric aerosol injection (SAI), which involves boosting the amount of aerosols in the stratosphere to reflect sun rays away from the earth.

The effect is akin to what happens during volcanic eruptions, which is followed by a cooldown of the planet.

Another method is marine cloud brightening, which involves increasing the reflectivity of certain clouds so that sunlight is reflected back.

Efforts to implement solar geoengineering are already happening. Last year, a startup called Make Sunsets launched weather balloons capable of releasing reflective sulfur particles into the earth’s atmosphere, which theoretically is believed to potentially cool down the planet.

In an interview with MIT Technology Review, Make Sunsets CEO Luke Iseman said that he expects to be characterized as a “Bond villain” for what the company is doing, but insists that climate change is a threat.

Other experts have issued warnings against wantonly deploying solar geoengineering projects. David Keith, a leading expert on the subject, explained in a 2018 blog that “solar geoengineering is largescale climate modification which inherently has global consequences that are difficult to quantify even after deployment.”

National Archives releases most, but not all JFK files:

Samantha Flom

The Epoch Times

More than 99 percent of the classified documents surrounding the 1963 assassination of the late President John F. Kennedy have been publicly released following the conclusion of a National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) review, according to the White House. Sharing the news at a June 30 press briefing, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said the review’s conclusion demonstrated the Biden administration’s commitment to government transparency and accountability.

“Under President Biden’s leadership, agencies have fully declassified over 16,000 records since 2021,” Jean-Pierre said. “This action reflects his instruction that all information related to President Kennedy’s assassination should be released, except when the strongest possible reasons counsel otherwise.

“As a result, over 99 percent of the records in the collection are now publicly available at the National Archives. In keeping with the president’s direction, the National Archives will be digitizing the entire collection to make it more accessible to the public.”

Earlier that day, in a memo to executive department and agency heads, President Joe Biden revealed that NARA had notified him of the review’s completion on May 1, requesting that the release of certain redacted information be further postponed.

Biden obliged, certifying the specified information’s continued redaction for the time being and requiring all releasable information to be publicly disclosed by June 30.

Future reviews, he added, would be conducted by the National Declassification Center (NDC) at NARA, as per the transparency plans submitted by federal agencies.

‘We protect what we must’

The new releases follow Biden’s

December 2022 directive that relevant agencies and departments review the remaining redactions in the collection and disclose all information “except when the strongest possible reasons counsel otherwise.”

Entities that sought the postponement of certain disclosures included the CIA, FBI, State Department, Defense Department, and NARA itself.

Since the December memo, NARA has published an additional 2,672 documents in full or with fewer redactions on its website.

“At the National Archives, we believe in the importance of government transparency and the accessibility of information,” National Archivist Colleen Shogan said in a statement. “The dedicated and detailed work completed by NARA staff and by our partners and stakeholder agencies is an excellent representation of how we can collaborate together to ensure that the maximum amount of information is made available to the American people, while we protect what we must.

“I have every confidence that the NDC’s implementation of these plans offers a clear path forward for public transparency and the timely release of additional information as circumstances warrant,” she added.

‘What are they hiding?’

But not everyone shares Shogan’s confidence.

Among those harboring doubts is Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the nephew of the late 35th president.

“It’s not about conspiracy—it is about transparency,” Kennedy wrote on Twitter on Sunday, mourning the “bad news” that the president was allowing some records to remain secret.

“The assassination was 60 years ago,” he added in another post. “What national security secrets could possibly be at risk? What are they hiding?”

Kennedy charged that the postponement was an “unlawful” violation of the President John F.

Kennedy Assassination Records Collection Act of 1992 (pdf), which required that each such record be “publicly disclosed in full, and available in the Collection” no later than 25 years after the date of the law’s enactment. That date came and went on Oct. 26, 2017. However, the law does include an exception in instances where the president certifies that a continued delay is “made necessary by an identifiable harm to the military defense, intelligence operations, law enforcement, or conduct of foreign relations” and the harm is “of such gravity that it outweighs the public interest.”

But Kennedy, who is seeking the Democratic presidential nomination, stressed that releasing the rest of the records would likely boost public trust in the federal government, which he held to be at “an all-time low.”

The candidate has been outspoken about his theories as to who was behind his uncle’s assassination, telling multiple media outlets in May that he blames the CIA.

“There is overwhelming evidence that the CIA was involved in his murder. I think it’s beyond a reasonable doubt at this point,” he told John Catsimatidis on WABC 770 AM’s “Cats

Roundtable” on May 7.

The ne xt day, Kennedy made the same allegation during an interview with Fox News’s Sean Hannity, pointing to “millions of pages of documents,” transcripts, and the accounts of individuals who have claimed involvement over the years.

The Democrat added that it was also the “first instinct” of his father, then-U.S. Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy Sr., that the CIA had orchestrated the killing.

“The first phone call that my father made after J. Edgar Hoover told him that his brother had been shot was to the CIA desk officer in Langley [Virginia] … and my father said, ‘Did your people do this?’”

Kennedy said his father subsequently posed the same question to Enrique RuizWilliams—a Cuban leader in the failed Bay of Pigs invasion, which was directed by the CIA—and then-CIA Director John McCone. Less than five years after his brother’s murder, Robert F. Kennedy Sr. was assassinated on June 6, 1968.

The CIA has long denied any involvement in the 35th president’s death.

Jack Phillips and Ryan Morgan contributed to this report.

Employment

Now hiring at Jojoba Hills RV Resort located in high desert surrounded by beautiful mountains 20 miles east of Temecula. The front office position is responsible for creating a positive experience for members visitors and guests. Board members and community residents the role performs a variety of clerical administrative computer copying book keeping deposits and other duties are required a high level of confidentiality superb customer service. Ability to meet deadlines. While multi tasking in a collaborative environment. Hours are 7:30am to 4pm Monday through Friday with occasional Saturday. 3 years customer service front office preferred. High school diploma with some collage a plus. Please email resume to office manager at jojobahills.com

Military Stuff

Old military stuff bought Buy old military stuff - all types & condition. Call or text Bob 760-450-8498 historybuyer.com

Real Estate - For Rent

Rancho Monserate Country Club/55+ community $2,350 x month includes all appliances with 1 deck, 2 storages units/potential office. 2 bd/2ba. 1,700 sq.ft. Includes full free golf course plus heated pool/spa, tennis. New flooring. No HOA which includes utilities. Rental available.Call to see(760) 728-1971/ Jan Carver (714)315-0993

Real Estate - For Sale

NATURAL SPRING FOR SALE ON 26 ACRES OF LAND LOCATED IN THE NORTH SIDE OF BANNING. IT PRODUCES 20K GALLONS OF ARTESAN WATER A DAY $349K AGENT ROBERT JOHN DAVIDSON 951-756-4395 LISTING IV22114592

Rooms for Rent

DOES ANYONE HAVE A ROOM TO RENT TO A SENIOR? (Murrieta/ Temecula) Call Nancy at 951-4919344.

Services Offered

Wellspring Herbs and VitaminsOffering a large selection of high quality Herbs and Herbal Combinations, Vitamins, CBD Oils, Salves and Capsules, Essential Oils, Homeopathic Remedies, Bach Flower Emotional Essences, Teas, Organic Lotions and Skin and Hair Care products, etc. We offer Nutritional Consultations with Iridology and Live-Cell Analysis. Come on in for a FREE Bio Scan. We are open from 10-5 Monday thru Friday and 10-4 on Saturday. We are located at 1223 S. Mission Rd.

‘We protect what we must’

Cahuilla Gathering and Earth Day features cultural learning, entertainment, food and vendors

The annual Támit Témal Píyik Pén Kéwet, or Earth Day & Gathering, was held Saturday,

June 24 at the softball fields on the Cahuilla reservation in Anza. This event was organized by the Cahuilla Cultural Committee, which is made up of five tribal members and is coordinated

Anza Community Hall announces open member meeting

July

12

out

in conjunction with the Tribal Environmental Protection Office known as CTEPO. Having this celebration is important to the Tribe, as it is a time to honor their rich culture and resiliency

during the Cahuilla Gathering & Earth Day event in Anza, June 24. Valley News/Shane Gibson photo beverage offerings were a crowd favorite as arts and crafts vendors offered a huge variety of items for sale. The grounds were vibrant

and share it with others in the community. There were informational booths which included Tribal Programs doing outreach for a variety of services. Food and

Hamilton Museum

see CAHUILLA, page D-4

Founders

Day Celebration to be held

July 29

The Anza Community Hall will hold an open membership meeting Wednesday, July 12, at 6:30 p.m.. The public, as well as members of the Hall, are encouraged to attend.

A gourmet hot dog dinner will be served that is free for current Community Hall members and $5 for nonmembers.

Besides addressing new and old business, the meeting will focus on a membership drive, with multiple options available. All proceeds from

membership fees support the Anza Community Hall and ensure that it is available to the community.

Membership packages include:

Annual Personal Membership - $30. This package includes one voting right, valid for one person, and good for one year from the date of purchase.

Annual Household Family Membership - $30. This package includes one voting right per family member up to five people, and good for one year from the date of purchase.

Lifetime Personal

Membership - $500. This package includes one voting right. No renewal ever needed. Not valid for businesses, not transferable and non-refundable.

Annual Business Membership - $50. Valid for one business and good for one year from date of purchase. A single person can vote for a maximum of 2 combined voting rights: one personal membership and one business membership, no matter the number of business memberships purchased by the personal

Step back in time at the Hamilton Museum Founders Day Celebration Saturday, July 29. The event will recognize longtime historian and museum founder Margaret Wellman Jaenke, who was a fifthgeneration member of three intertwined pioneer families that settled in Garner Valley and Anza. She spent most of her life collecting family

and local history and was instrumental in the creation of the Hamilton Museum. Jaenke wrote several books on the history of the valley and volunteered countless hours at the museum educating and sharing with people about the history of the mountain communities.

“We are also asking the community to share written memories of Mrs. Jaenke to add to the museum’s historical archives,” said museum volunteer Allison Renck.

According to Rencke, history is such an important part of Anza and it is important to share the experiences of the past.

“It’s seen in all the local see MEETING, page D-2 see MUSEUM, page D-3

The county fair-style event is free from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m., with a BBQ from 5 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. and a dance starting at 6 p.m. at a cost of $25 per

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

Nesune Madrigal (left) and her brother Andrew Madrigal make brushes

of a soaproot plant

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

The Anza Community Hall will hold an open membership meeting Wednesday, July 12. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photos

Museum volunteers show off the tee-shirt design that the museum will be selling at the Hamilton Museum Founders Day Celebration to be held Saturday, July 29. Anza Valley Outlook/Courtesy photo person.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

MEETING from page D-1

membership. Cash, PayPal and checks are accepted as payment.

Each Anza Community Hall member shall be eligible to cast one vote for their personal membership and a maximum of two votes if they have purchased a business membership, in the elections held for board of directors or in any other vote put before the membership. A board of directors election will be held in September at a day to be determined.

Those interested in becoming a nominee for the board of directors must have and maintain a personal membership in good standing for at least 30 days prior to nomination to the board. Additionally, memberships must be in good standing the entire length of time served on the board.

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.

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.

The Anza Community Hall succeeds with the support of the community. Community Hall board meetings are open to the public and everyone is encouraged to attend.

Anyone interested in becoming a member of the Anza Community Building, Inc., or to discover upcoming events can call Pebbles Bartlett-Lewis at (951)760-9244, email ACHAGeneral@gmail. com , visit the Hall’s website ar https://anzacommunitybuilding. org/ or Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/ groups/337754646415866.

To donate, please click https:// anzacommunitybuilding.org/ donations/.

The Anza Community Building, Inc. is located at 56630 CA-371 in Anza.

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

Valley Gospel Youth fundraising event huge success

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

A youth group fundraising spaghetti dinner, raffle and auction was held at Valley Gospel Chapel Saturday, June 24, providing fun, food, camaraderie and donations for a special backpacking adventure for the kids.

Spaghetti and meatballs, chicken alfredo and Italian olive oil pasta main courses were served by the Valley Gospel Chapel Youth Group, with salads, green beans, toasted garlic bread, brownies, ice cream and root beer floats to top it all off.

Funds and donations from the dinner will go toward a hiking trip in the Sierras, called Over the Edge and put on by Bending the Bow Ministry. According to organizer KC Neer, the hike helps children grow a strong foundation in Christ and to know they have a purpose for life. So far, a total of 11 teenagers from Anza want to go on this trip, but still have to raise $3,690 in order to attend. They have managed to raise half the funds so far, but still have a way to go.

The hiking hopefuls are comprised of teens from Valley Gospel Chapel, Anza Valley Christian Fellowship and Anza Baptist Church. They will be led by Valley Gospel’s Youth Ministry leaders, Scott and Lydia Schultz. The adventure begins Wednesday, July 19. Donations are being gratefully accepted.

“Over the Edge is a backpacking/

discipleship program to equip junior high through collegeage students,” said Neer. “Our students are challenged physically, emotionally, and spiritually as they embark on a guided journey into the beautiful Sierra Nevada Mountains. It is intended to inspire students to experience the pleasure of accomplishment by giving them opportunities to do hard things.”

The children learn to work together with other individuals and also as a team, and will have the opportunity to sharpen their leadership skills. They will be challenged to grow in their character and integrity.

“This trip is life-changing,” added Neer. “These youth will come home with a new appreciation for creation, the value of hard work, community, and their relationship with Jesus. The mission of Bending the Bow Ministries is to serve the leaders in the Body of Christ by releasing encouragement, healing and hope by equipping and developing strength in Believers and by providing loving support through consistent relational connection. Their vision is to see flourishing leaders serving from a place of spiritual abundance and overflow, prospering in every area, as they fulfill the calling of God in their lives.”

To donate to the trip, please contact Valley Gospel Chapel at (951)763-4622.

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

Valley Gospel Chapel youngsters gather for a photo after a successful fundraising event Saturday, June 24.

Sheep come to the AEC solar field

MUSEUM from page D-1 events from Anza Days, which is a patriotic celebration held the Saturday before the 4th of July, to the many events held at the historic Anza Community Hall built in 1952 by Anza residents,” she said.

“On July 29, the community, as well as visitors will be celebrating Anza’s history with a Founders Day Celebration at the Hamilton Museum.”

The Hamilton Museum Founders Day Celebration will feature local artisan’s vendor booths, competitions and tours of the museum. The Anza Quilters Club and Idyllwild Quilters will be on hand, displaying quilts created by their members. The displays will emphasize the timehonored traditions of times past and how women would work together to create quilts that were passed down from generation to generation.

Opening ceremonies will include William “Bill” Madrigal performing bird singing, a timehonored ritual of singing where tribal members of the Cahuilla Indians share their story and spirit.

Guests may enter numerous competitions and show off their

talent. Categories include: Fruit Pie Contest; Preserved Food/ Pickles contest; Best Dressed Pet Rock; Photography Contest, Beauty in the Mountain Communities; Sewing - Apron; Quilted Article, Placemat; Best Dressed Dog; Rubber Chicken Throwing Contest; Corn Hole games and more.

“In the evening the museum is hosting a BBQ dinner and dance, which will encourage socializing and meeting your neighbors the old-fashioned way. The music entertainment is the notorious and revered Barnyard Boyz band, so be prepared to dance until you drop,” added Rencke.

The Hamilton Museum and Ranch Foundation is located at 39991 Contreras Road in Anza.

For more information, please visit www.hamiltonmuseum.com, email hmrf.Anza@gmail.com or call Allison Rencke at (951)6635452. Send memories of museum founder Margaret Wellman Jaenke via email to hmrf.Anza@gmail. com

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

Sheep assist with weed abatement at the AEC solar field.

On Thursday, June 29, some special visitors arrived at the Anza Electric Cooperative office.

AEC has contracted with local businessman Brandon Kooiman to hire his flock of sheep for weed abatement in our solar field. The sheep arrived ready to start grazing. Among the first flock of seven to arrive there are six adults and one lamb.

“This is a win-win situation because it helps a local business and is also a way for AEC to utilize some natural weed control,” said AEC General Manager Kevin Short. “We’re very excited to work with Brandon on this project and recommend this natural form of vegetation control for all our members at home. It’s great to know that Brandon’s services are

available to everyone locally.”

If you visit the AEC office you may just see them, along with their companion, Jade, the bloodhound, roaming about the field. For further information, please contact Anza Electric Cooperative at (951)763-4333. Submitted by Anza Electric Cooperative.

Valley News/Courtesy photo

Anza Valley Outlook/Courtesy photo

CAHUILLA from page D-1

with color, energy and a festive atmosphere.

“We had such an amazing time,” said Anza resident Bryan Sanders. “Thank you to everyone for making us feel like part of the family. So much tradition was shared with us along with some amazing home made food.”

Throughout the event there was birdsinging and dancing by several different groups. The birdsongs are the Tribes’ social and celebratory songs.

Childrens’ activities and a petting zoo featuring chickens, a hedgehog, a bearded dragon and birds entertained the little ones while a softball tournament was held for the adults.

This event is held on the fourth Saturday in June every year.

For more information on the Cahuilla Gathering & Earth Day events, please visit https://www. facebook.com/CahuillaGathering/

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

Native American brushes made from material of the soaproot bulb at the Cahuilla Gathering & Earth Day event in Anza.

Adrian Salgado shows the soaproot plant that he collects and uses to craft tools with. Soaproot has also been used by Native Americans for its medicinal properties. Valley News/Shane Gibson photos

Anthony Smith tosses a horseshoe during the Maurice Chacon Memorial Horseshoe Tournament during the Cahuilla Gathering & Earth Day event in Anza.

Wizard Anzaldua participates in the Maurice Chacon Memorial Horseshoe Tournament during the Cahuilla Gathering & Earth Day event in Anza.

Participants compete in a horseshoe tournament during the Cahuilla Gathering & Earth Day event in Anza.

People view a variety of animals including a small petting zoo at the Cahuilla Gathering & Earth Day event in Anza.

From left, Nazario Rodriguez, 10, Jamisun Jaime, 9, and Daymon Magee pet rabbits in a small petting zoo at the Cahuilla Gathering & Earth Day event in Anza.

From left, Alylah Salgado, 9, Adona Salgado, Abigail Garcia, 13, and Darla Moss, 10, work on making a pinch pot taught by Tony Soares at the Cahuilla Gathering & Earth Day event in Anza.

OPINION

Will the Supreme Court ruling on free speech be a crack in the dam of compelled speech?

to create a website for a samesex couple’s wedding, which she claimed violated her own free speech.

The Supreme Court majority ruled that it did, indeed, violate her right to free speech.

The justices all agreed during the arguments that products off the shelf, even ones with messages, must be sold to everyone. Software that merely provides a template, Ms. Waggoner said, does not express the designer’s views about same-sex marriage.

Publisher

In a narrow ruling last Friday, June 30, the Supreme Court majority ruled to protect artists and content creators’ free speech. Will compelled speech be challenged next?

While free speech advocates hailed the decision, LGBTQ advocates are afraid it is part of a larger agenda.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg claimed Sunday on CNN’s “State of the Union.”that the Supreme Court had an “agenda” other than keeping to the Constitution after it ruled in favor of a Christian web designer.

Lorie Smith, of 303 Creative, represented by the Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF), was arguing that a Colorado law would force her to create messages that violate and ignore her deeply held religious belief that marriage is between one man and one woman. This was despite a state law that forbids discrimination based on sexual orientation. The law would have forced her

“If it’s a plug-and-play website where the couple, for example, is putting in their names and using their website, then you don’t have compelled speech because you don’t have a speech creator,” she said.

While this decision seems to be narrow in scope and applies to artists and content creators, one has to wonder if this is also a crack in the dam of “compelled speech” laws in California?

Compelled speech laws may make it against the law to not call someone their preferred pronoun if you are a healthcare worker, or if you are a counselor, you may have to provide “affirmative care,” agreeing with a minor child’s diagnosis of gender dysphoria, or if you are a doctor, maybe you have to prescribe to your patient according to the guidelines that the state or CDC, or WHO dictates, rather than your own diagnosis from the history of your patient.

As to the Supreme Court ruling, Justice Neil Gorsuch’s majority opinion stated that if the court had ruled the opposite way, the government would have the power

to force individuals to violate their religious beliefs.

During an interview on CNN’s “State of the Union,” Buttigieg said Gorsuch’s decision had no merit and that it’s part of a conspiracy on the part of courts and Republican state legislatures, who are “chipping away” at the rights of LGBT Americans, but the justices saw that it was a bigger issue.

But what if it was an opposite situation?

While the Civil Rights laws protect you from discrimination, what if you are a devoted Muslim or a Jewish person and someone wants you to do a Christian baptism cake, or a Christian church website that claims “Jesus is the only way” or similar messaging, that they

believe is false and dangerous?

Shouldn’t they have the right to refuse the business and keep a clear conscience? There are thousands of cake bakers and website designers who would appreciate the business.

Justices Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan and Ketanji Brown Jackson dissented, with Sotomayor writing Smith’s view is “profoundly wrong.”

Time will tell if this is a crack in the dam of “Compelled Speech.” Canadian and U.S. governments (state and federal) have started to legislate speech, forcing people to say things they don’t really believe, which is the first time in history that western common law governments have legislated compelled speech,

forcing people to “say” things, whether they believe them or not, or whether it is against their religion or “deeply held beliefs.”

Where you do see compelled speech is in China, North Korea, and authoritarian countries that don’t value individual rights and free speech. Something can be factually false as it relates to history, science or politics, but you are forced to say what you know to be untrue to please the “supreme leader” or the government.

This compelled speech is, in my mind, also a violation of free speech.

And, free speech is just a beginning. Next you could be forced to wear something, like a uniform. Is that constitutional? I don’t believe it is.

Two senate Republicans tapped for key infrastructure committee

SACRAMENTO – Senator Shannon Grove (R-Bakersfield)

and Senator Scott Wilk (R-Santa Clarita) have been appointed to the Senate Select Committee on Infrastructure Streamlining and Workforce Equity to hear a variety of issues, including CEQA reform (California Environmental Quality Act) which has long been advocated by Senate Republicans.

“California Senate Republicans remain eager to collaborate with the governor and our colleagues across the aisle to fix California with bipartisan solutions,” said Senate Minority Leader Brian W. Jones (R-San Diego). “I am encouraged by this bipartisan

Select Committee, which will hopefully help streamline infrastructure permitting for the benefit of all Californians.”

Senator Grove, Vice Chair of the Senate Rules Committee, said, “From housing to water infrastructure, California is facing one manufactured crisis after another. I look forward to addressing these serious issues on the Senate Select Committee.”

“As Vice Chair of the Problem Solvers Caucus, I am pleased to join this bipartisan committee to find common ground in order for us to move the needle for all Californians. As I’ve said in the past, good ideas don’t have party

lines, and I’m ready to roll up my sleeves and get to work for our citizens,” said Senator Wilk.

In May, Governor Newsom announced sweeping proposals to the problematic California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the purpose of the Select Committee is to hold an informational hearing to discuss issues from housing to water infrastructure.

The Republican appointments follow decades of efforts by Legislative Republicans on key infrastructure measures, including many CEQA reforms.

Submitted by California Senate Republicans.

Cahuilla Tribal members perform traditional birdsongs at the Cahuilla Gathering & Earth Day Saturday, June 24. Valley News/Courtesy photos by Christi Pomije and Rachel Leash

A petting zoo allows children to handle Silkie chickens at the Cahuilla Gathering & Earth Day.

Children enjoy interaction with a bearded dragon lizard at the Cahuilla Gathering & Earth Day.

Horseshoe tossing contests are competitive at the Cahuilla Gathering & Earth Day Saturday.

[Right] Softball games are a main event at the Cahuilla Gathering & Earth Day.

Julie Reeder

Stop making worship about you

a drum while the others were clapping and singing. So intent were they in what they were doing they barely looked up to notice my team of 13 people. Since I don’t speak Spanish (unless I’m ordering at Alberto’s), I asked our translator what they were singing. She said, “they are singing worship songs.”

I just stood there stunned. It was like I couldn’t move. All I could do was just watch them as they worshiped.

There were no stage lights. No background tracks. No trendy outfits. No views on social media. No amazing vocalist with side mic singers. No album cover… Only one little drummer. It was one of the most beautiful things I have ever seen. It was there the Lord reminded me of the scriptures that say, “From the lips of children and infants you, Lord, have called forth your praise.”

(Matthew 21:16)

And there it was. In that little orphanage in the middle of nowhere Guatemala, those words were a reality.

I was convicted for how many times I’ve made worship about my preferences and priorities instead of about Jesus. Maybe you’ve been guilty of that too.

If so, like me, you need a worship shift in your life. Here’s how: Make worship about God, not about you.

The moment you start thinking about yourself in worship is the moment it stops becoming about God. The Bible tells us to “ascribe to the Lord, all you families of nations, ascribe to the Lord glory and strength.” (Psalm 96:7) Worship is not for you. It’s for God. As you focus your worship upward toward him, he changes you on the inside.

Make worship about God, not what other people might think.

I’ve had people tell me they don’t like to sing out loud because other people might hear them. Isn’t it better that other people listen to you praise God instead of God never hearing you?

The Bible tells us that “through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—

the fruit of lips that openly profess his name.” (Hebrews 13:15)

Those precious children in the orphanage did not care one bit what other people thought. They just worshiped. We have much to learn from them. Make worship about God, not the world. Worship has more to do with the supernatural than the natural. We often reverse the two.

Jesus said, “The time is coming—indeed it’s here now— when true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth. The Father is looking for those who will worship him that way. For God is Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth.” (John 4:23-24)

The moment you start viewing worship as routine is when it stops being what it’s meant to be. A spiritual act in which you give God all the glory due his name. Make worship about God, not your comfort. I get it. We all have different musical styles and preferences. And I’ve heard ALL the excuses.

The music is too loud. The music is too quiet. The songs are too contemporary. We don’t sing enough hymns. I don’t like the way the musicians look. The excuses just keep coming.

It’s time we stopped looking at worship as a performance and instead looked at it as an intimate time with God. Do I believe we should have a worship service of the highest quality possible? Yes! But most churches, including mine, are working with volunteers who just have a heart to worship. You should have that same heart. Take a good hard look at your worship. And take the necessary steps to make it more about Jesus and less about you. You’ll get more when you give more.

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