Valley News, July 21, 2023

Four fires burn over 9,000 acres in Riverside County

Jen Wiersma

TVUSD Trustee, Area 3

Standing up for parental rights over our children’s education is more than a campaign slogan; it is essential. I speak personally here and not on behalf of the entire TVUSD board.

Courts & Crimes

Trustee responds to Assemblyman Jackson’s legislative agenda Riverside doctor accused of sexually assaulting patients pleads not guilty

City News Service

Special to the Valley News

RIVERSIDE - A physician and operator of a Riverside skincare clinic accused of sexually assaulting four female patients pleaded not guilty today to multiple felony offenses and was released from jail after posting a $1 million bond.

Caltrans I-15 slab replacements slow traffic in Murrieta; More possible in other areas

Tony Ault

Staff Writer

Area motorists traveling the Interstate 15 in Murrieta during the evenings last week were disrupted by major Caltrans work replacing a number of damaged concrete slabs, with more still possible on the freeways in the coming weeks. One lane access may slow traffic in the evening but will not close the entire freeway.

Firefighters have had to battle four different fires over the last

week, including the largest of the four, the Rabbit Fire in Lakeview. The Rabbit Fire burned almost 8,300 acres and was still a threat as of Tuesday with 45% contain-

ment and evacuation orders and warnings still in effect.

Riverside County Fire Officials were reporting extreme heat and low humidity were creating chal-

lenging conditions for firefighters battling the fire which had one civilian injury with no details. see FIRES, page A-5

CHP: Motorcyclist run over, killed by semi, which left scene

City News Service

Special to the Valley News

TEMECULA - A 76-year-old

motorcyclist was killed on Interstate 15 in Temecula when his Harley-Davidson tipped over as he tried to thread his way between two tractor-trailers and one of them rolled over him, then left the scene, authorities said Monday, July 17.

The rider, who was not immediately identified, was fatally injured shortly after 6 p.m. Thursday on northbound I-15 near Winchester Road, according to the California Highway Patrol.

CHP officials said the victim was in heavy commuter traffic and began “lane splitting’’ to get

see FATALITY, page A-6

Newsom tweets threatening message to Temecula parents and TVUSD school board

Julie Reeder Publisher

July 13, five days before a regular TVUSD board meeting to consider the proposed curriculum for adoption, Governor Newsom posted a tweet calling TVUSD school board members extremists and threatened to fine them for their incompetence for not adopting the curriculum favored by Sacramento. He said, “California is stepping in.”

His tweet charged that the school board rejected a specific book because it mentioned Harvey Milk, which, according to TVUSD Board President Dr. Komrosky, isn’t true and Milk is not mentioned in the school book. Milk is actually mentioned only in the support materials. Milk is reported in a biography to have been a 33-year-old pederast with a 16-year-old boyfriend, Jack Galen McKinley Dr. Komrosky said, “ What is also unfortunate is that…he has

elected to publish this threatened action ahead of the District’s hard work on this matter that will be come to fruition in just a few days.”

In a press release, Newsom wrote, “Cancel culture has gone too far in Temecula: radicalized zealots on the school board rejected a textbook used by hundreds of thousands of students and now children will begin the school year without the tools they need to learn.”

Dr. Komrosky explained that this, as well, is not true in a submitted response to Governor Newsom’s July 13, 2023 Tweet: “I speak personally here and not on behalf of the entire board when I say, it is unfortunate that Governor Newsom and others have seized upon an action by the Temecula Valley Unified School expressly authorized by the California Legislature and mischaracterized not only what has occurred, but why.

CHP work the scene of an accident involving a motorcyclist that was killed Thursday, July 13, on the northbound 15 Freeway at the Winchester overpass. The semi-truck that ran over the victim left the scene, possibly not knowing he ran over the man. Valley News/JP Raineri photo

Valley News/Mario Sevilla photo

Julie Reeder Publisher

The Rabbit Fire in Lakeview has burned nearly 8,300 acres.

Wildomar Councils identifies street rehabilitation and slurry seal projects

Tony Ault Staff Writer

Many streets in Wildomar to be either rehabilitated or slurry sealed in the coming months were identified in a report by the Public Works Engineering Department at the Wildomar City Council meeting Wednesday, July 12.

In addition, the fourth quarter budget review presented by Administrative Analyst Adam Jantz showed overall increases in revenue for the city of Wildomar were also heard at the city council meeting, in the absence of Councilmember Bridgette Moore who was out ill.

Showing the upcoming roadway rehabilitation projects was city public works engineer Jason Farag. He said the total cost of the upcoming rehabilitation projects

will be approximately $3.8 million. The streets that are scheduled to be more in need of rehabilitation are Cherry Street, all of Walnut Street, Gafford Road, Canyon Ranch Road, Sellers Road, Waite Street, Wildomar Trail, Grand Avenue and portions of Clinton Keith. He said while there are 130 streets in Wildomar that are in need of slurry sealing – patching cracks and top coating, some of those are now scheduled with work beginning as early as next week. The city cemetery will be the temporary staging area for the upcoming rehab and slurry seal work.

The administrative and testing costs for the road rehab and slurry seal were also included and approved by the council.

The council was told the residents of those streets and the adjacent streets will be notified by the

contractors when the rehabilitation projects will begin.

In the fourth quarter budget reports, Jantz showed the different revenue increases for both the general fund and the non-general fund and what the expenditures will be for the increased revenues.

The overall general fund increases totaled $803,200. Those increases included $306,400 from property taxes, $70,000 from building permits, $10,000 in encroachment permits, $181,200 in private development fees and $56,000 vehicle taxes.

General fund expenditures totalled $181,200 for private development, $40,000 in city attorney fees, $42,400 in administrative services and $14,100 for code enforcement.

The non-general fund revenues totalled $500,000 for cannabis

development, $80,000 from federal ARPA interest, $94,400 for franchise agreements, $72,500 property tax remittances and $386,000 in DIF fees.

Non-general fund expenditures totalled $84,000 in Measure AA Bundy Canyon Road costs, $60,000 in Measure AA SEDCO costs; $61,700 in Measure Z expenditures for park security and safety, a registered decrease of $104,000 from ARPA funding and $101,400 in Measure AA funds for community services.

The consent items included a precise grading agreement, stormwater management facilities, onsite and offsite improvements and parkway maintenance agreement for the coming construction of the Tres Lagos Apartments Phase 1 project. There were approvals of new

Oversight Advisory Committee members. The Ad Hoc Public Parks, Facilities and Trails subcommittees and for the California Intergovernmental Risk Authority board of directors.

Jantz said the fourth quarter budget fell within the yearly city budget plans.

The council proclaimed July “Parks Make Life Better Month” and honored employee Tina Roney for her work for the city since its incorporation and her retirement.

Wildomar City Manager Daniel York in his reports said the city was proud to welcome Marriott Hotels to the city who is expected to build a four story hotel in the city for the first time. He said more hotel plans will be coming in the future.

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

Rotary Club of Menifee to host school supplies donation event

MENIFEE – The Rotary Club of Menifee will host an evening “Back to School” social at the Buffalo Wild Wings in Menifee from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 26. The Rotary will be collecting school supplies to donate to the students of Menifee Union School District, Romoland School District and Santa Rosa Academy. Before the event community members may drop off school supplies at the local libraries, the Coldwell Banker Office on New Hub, as well as the night of the event at

Buffalo Wild Wings. Originated by Rotarians George Mills and Ben Diederich, this event began in 2022 to support the needs of the students in our local community. Community members are encouraged to bring school supplies for students and enjoy food in a social scene.

In sharing why they were motivated to hold this event, George Mills said, “We want kids to have one less thing to worry about. We want every child to feel like they have everything they need to be

successful.” Event co-chair Ben Diederich said, “Every child should have the supplies they need to do their work and reach their full potential, we want to help make sure they do.”

Buffalo Wild Wings has partnered in supporting these goals by donating finger foods for the event.

The school supply drive is just one example of how the Rotary Club of Menifee works to meet the mission of Rotary International in the local community.

“Rotary clubs by nature ‘stand

in the gap.’ We fill unmet needs in the communities we serve,” Kristina Mills, president of Rotary Club of Menifee, said. “Being the child of a single mom raising four kids, I knew the struggles my mom met each year. It warms my heart to know so many children will have the tools to have a successful year.”

Following the event all school supplies donated will be given to Menifee Union School District, Romoland School District and Santa Rosa Academy to be pro-

vided to children in need. These supplies will support the students throughout the 2023-2024 school year. The Rotary Club of Menifee was established in 1963. Part of the larger organization of Rotary International, the Rotary Club of Menifee looks to serve both locally and around the world. The Rotary Club of Menifee meets two Thursdays a month at Mt. San Jacinto College.

Submitted by Rotary Club of Menifee.

Temecula Valley Museum unveils mural celebrating Japanese

Marine Day

TEMECULA – The city of Temecula, Community Services Department and Temecula Valley Museum announce a new emerging artist mural in Sam Hicks Monument Park, 28300 Mercedes Street. This temporary, public art piece honors Japan’s annual celebration of Marine Day with a mural featuring an ocean scene depicting Japanese maritime culture painted by artist Clarissa Lee and her students. The mural was installed in early July and will be on display through the month of August, in celebration of Japanese Marine Day Monday, July 17, and to honor Temecula’s

Sister City, Daisen, which is located next to the ocean in Tottori Prefecture in Japan. The mural was a joint effort of students from Temecula Preparatory School, Murrieta Valley High School and James L. Day Middle School, under the direction of art teacher Clarissa Lee. Participating student artists included students from Temecula Preparatory School: Sabrina Del Val, Kenna Steffan, Sophia Patterson, Samantha Greener, Kaitlyn Green, Shiloh Hernandez, Izzy Newport, Bella Stradnick, Colin Reyes, Zara Del Gaiso, Aiden Abalos, Brooklyn Goetze, Jessica Lu, Hanna Witherby, Brooklyn

Horspool, Kye Stone, Minh Tran, Faith Cie, Sascha Bush, Jyllina R, Twila Majam, Jaiden Anonical, Alex Assaad, Juliette, Kayla Bautista and Brenna Robinson; students from Murrieta Valley High School: Joelle Nguyen, Skyli Anderson, Zoe Ruiz, Sarah Lee, Claire Shen and Erin Coleman and students from James L. Day Middle School: Abby Lee. Clarissa Lee said that the students “wanted to convey the beauty of Japan’s islands and ocean. We depicted the ocean swirling around famous Japanese landmarks.”

The mural is displayed in Sam Hicks Monument Park and was

Temecula Valley Museum unveils a new emerging artist mural Wednesday, July 12, at Sam Hicks Monument Park, celebrating Japanese Marine Day.

unveiled Wednesday, July 12.

The emerging artist mural project seeks to support emerging artists by providing a space to showcase their craft. Artists can paint a mural on varying topics,

Valley News/Courtesy photo

facilitated by Bigfoot Graphics. For more information, including how to become a participating artist, call 951-694-6450. Submitted by city of Temecula.

Kabian Memorial Park, Lakeland Village Community Center sewer connection given ARPA funding

Joe Naiman Writer

The actions of the Riverside County Board of Supervisors

Tuesday, July 11, included American Rescue Plan Act funding for Roy W. Kabian Memorial Park and for a sewer connection for the Lakeland Village Community Center.

The supervisors’ 5-0 vote allocated $1,300,000 for Kabian Memorial Park infrastructure improvements and $578,635 to connect the Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District sewer system to the Lakeland Village Community Center. The action also appropriated $1,500,000 for the Mead Valley Community Center.

The American Rescue Plan Act

of 2021 included $350 billion of Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds allocations for eligible state, territorial, tribal and local governments. The funding addresses the public health emergency and economic impacts of the coronavirus epidemic and can be utilized for four eligible categories: mitigation of negative economic impacts, premium pay for eligible workers performing essential work, provision of government services lost revenue would have eliminated and necessary infrastructure investments including water, sewer and broadband.

The county board of supervisors approved $82 million of ARPA funding for infrastructure projects and another $36 million for eco-

nomic recovery programs.

Roy W. Kabian Memorial Park is in the 28000 block of Goetz Road. Approximately one acre of the park established in 1968 is developed and another 639 acres provide hiking and equestrian trails through Quail Valley. The ARPA funding will be used to improve parking, playgrounds and restrooms at the park.

The Lakeland Village Community Center currently utilizes a septic system. The ARPA funding will allow sewer facilities to be constructed and connected to the EVMWD system, demolition of septic tanks and leach lines and an on-site sewer lateral for a possible future restroom at the community center’s lower field.

The funding for the Mead Valley Community Center will replace the existing lawn with artificial turf on the sports field and add trees and upgraded lighting around the field. The county’s Facilities Management department is the lead department for the Mead Valley Community Center project. The Riverside County Regional Park and Open-Space District is the lead agency for the Kabian Memorial Park infrastructure improvements. The lead departments will return to the Board of Supervisors in the future to implement the projects. Joe Naiman can be reached by email at jnaiman@reedermedia. com.

Two deputies added to county law enforcement contract with Lake Elsinore

Joe Naiman Writer Riverside County’s law enforcement contract with the city of Lake Elsinore has been amended to add two law enforcement officers.

The Riverside County Board of Supervisors voted 5-0 Tuesday, June 20, to approve the amendment to the law enforcement contract with the city. The increased level of service will add one deputy sheriff’s position and one community service officer.

An August 2020 county board of supervisors action approved a law enforcement contract with Lake Elsinore covering fiscal years 2020-2021 to 2024-2025. That contract called for the sheriff’s department to provide 14 dedicated officers along with lake patrol which is not a dedicated position. The contract does not prevent the city from hiring unarmed code enforcement officers. In 2021, the contract was amended to add two traffic officers, one special enforcement officer focusing on parks and

one community service officer.

The Lake Elsinore City Council approved the most recent amendment to the law enforcement services agreement June 13. The additional fiscal year 20232024 expense for the city will be $459,000 which will cover salaries and benefits including retirement contributions.

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

A trustee responds to Assemblyman Jackson’s anti-parent legislative agenda

Jen Wiersma

Trustee, Area 3

TVUSD

Standing up for parental rights over our children’s education is more than a campaign slogan; it is essential. I speak personally here and not on behalf of the entire TVUSD board.

As parents are taking action to regain control of their children’s education, we are seeing disinformation campaigns launched to upend their efforts. As a newly seated Temecula Unified School District (TVUSD) board member, I’m compelled to address the inaccuracies perpetuated by Assemblyman Corey Jackson, author of Assembly Bill 1078 and the co-sponsor of the bill, Tony Thurmond, California Superintendent of Public Instruction.

Since the November 2022 general election, where two colleagues and I won seats on the TVUSD board, we have been in the crosshairs of those who are losing control over the state’s educational system. There are several bills working their way through the legislature meant to curtail school boards’ power; AB 1078 is chief among them. Thurmond recently implied that the TVUSD school board has engaged in:

• Threatening, bullying and mistreating students throughout the district;

• Banning books specifically designed to target LGBTQ+ and persons of color;

• Wielding local control to avoid inclusive education.

Yet, none of this is true. I have nothing but love, compassion, and

concern for the families of our district who deserve the very best educational resources. As such, local school boards are uniquely positioned to engage with and obtain important insights about the educational experience of our communities. The law requires all students to have equal access to education, free of pervasive vulgarity, obscenity, pornography, and sexual harassment, which is not protected speech under the First Amendment. Recently, the play “Angels in America,” was assigned to a group of students in a TVUSD drama class. It included over 100 “F—words”, sexual violence and descriptions of explicit sex and drug use.

During Superintendent Thurmond’s June visit, he met with school activists, but neglected to speak with a family whose daughter was traumatized by this sordid material aimed at sexualizing our students. After alerting her parents, who testified at a TVUSD board meeting, this student suffered mistreatment and subsequent, retaliatory abuse on campus. She should have been Thurmond’s primary concern. State leaders, schools, teachers, and local board members should be making unbiased, ethical decisions in the classroom and designing policy to support and protect all stakeholders as per California Education Code, section 233.5:

“Each teacher shall endeavor to impress upon the minds of the pupils the principles of morality, truth, justice, patriotism, and a true comprehension of the rights, duties, and dignity of American citizenship, and the meaning of equality and human dignity, including the promotion of harmonious relations, ...to teach them to avoid idleness, profanity, and falsehood... and foster an environment... free from discriminatory attitudes, practices, events, or activities.”

While evaluating our recent K-5 social studies pilot, my colleague and I noted the lack of parental and citizen involvement required by the Education Code section 51100, “Specifically, involving parents

and guardians of pupils in the education process is fundamental to a healthy system of public education.” We initially paused the decision to adopt the curriculum because the district bypassed the requirement to “promote the involvement of parents and the other members of the community in the selection of instructional materials.” Sec. 60002. The curriculum committee was comprised of 47 teachers and zero parents.

Our primary focus was to seek a robust, collaboratively chosen history curriculum, rich in civics and geography. During this process we were given cause for concern upon discovery of Harvey Milk’s biography in the proposed supplemental material for 4th grade. We learned this controversial historical figure was an adult who engaged in an intimate, long-term sexual relationship with a minor. This was reported by Randy Shilts, an award-winning gay reporter for the San Francisco Chronicle, who covered Harvey’s activism and political career.

After five months, we have finally received full access to the teacher’s edition to finish a comprehensive review of the curriculum. The board has both the right and responsibility to exercise authority and discretion when adopting materials that will be in circulation in the district for 7-10 years. This is how every district in the state curates books. It is not ”book banning” as Jackson’s bill lazily asserts. We are working diligently to provide the best educationally suitable materials for our community in our elementary school classrooms while adhering to Fair Act guidelines in the K-12 setting.

This school board was elected to protect and oversee the education of every student regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation, or ethnicity. I specifically voted to ban racism and supported a resolution disallowing Critical Race Theory to prevent students from being judged by the color of their skin instead of the content of their character. TVUSD is committed to education which learns

Page 61 of “Angels in America.” To see more pages from this play, go to myvalleynews.com and search “trustee.” Valley News/Courtesy photo from past injustices, racisms, and discrimination and rejects current discrimination threatening to undermine our shared humanity. In a recent Supreme Court decision striking down racial discrimination in college admissions, Justice Neil Gorsuch wrote, “The words of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 are not like mood rings; they do not change their message from one moment to the next.” AB 1078 is one bill of many designed to limit the authority and autonomy of school boards.

Trustees are elected by constituents in their community as fiduciaries and are bound by law to make the best decisions in educating and protecting kids while upholding parent’s rights. If AB 1078 were to become law, it would use bullying techniques to threaten trustees who make good, but unpopular

decisions, for their schools; this is how a democratic republic works. The bill would also levy fines, dox school board members, and seek to remove local control over curriculum decisions if they were to get on the state’s bad side for any arbitrary reason. This bill is flatly unconstitutional and will be challenged in court should the governor sign it. This bill proposal is also a direct attack on voters. Parents have a duty to connect with their legislative representatives and remind them that the school boards need to be protected from state control so they can provide the best content for their children’s education.

Jen4tvusd.com

@jen4tvusd media@jen4tvusd.com

“The Board of Education of the Temecula Valley Unified School District did not ‘ban’ a book at its May 16, 2023 regular meeting. Instead the Board of Education determined not to adopt as curriculum a history-social science program for District-wide use that had been part of a pilot study conducted by the District.

TWEET from page A-1 FAIR Act, before the next school year is set to begin. That proposed curriculum will be presented to the Board of Education for consideration and adoption on July 18, 2023 at its next regular meeting. What is also unfortunate is that the Governor knows this and has elected to publish this threatened action ahead of the District’s hard work on this matter that will be come to fruition in just a few days.

“Members of the Board of Education did state concerns about a supplemental material, not a textbook, that was part of that curriculum related to a lesson for fourth graders about Mr. Milk. But what the Governor has conveniently ignored is that members of the Board of Education expressed other significant concerns about the District’s process, including whether it had adequately engaged the community regarding the adoption of curriculum, as well as whether the proposed curriculum adequately addressed the needs of English learners and special education students.

“What has followed is an intense effort by a significant number of stakeholders within the District to resolve these concerns and assemble a curriculum that meets all state standards, including the

“It should also be noted that the contention by State Superintendent Tony Thurmond that the students of the District are “slated to begin the school year on August 14, 2023 without enough textbooks for every student” is categorically false.

“Following the decision by the Board of Education in May not to adopt the pilot curriculum, the District made arrangements with the publisher of its currently adopted curriculum to provide enough textbooks for every single K-5 student of the District (which are the grade levels effected by this issue). That plan is in place and can be implemented should a new curriculum not be adopted by the Board of Education.

According to a press release from Go, the rejected curriculum was one of four programs ap-

proved by the state and is used in hundreds of school districts in California.

Assemblymember Dr. Corey Jackson has introduced Bill1078, which would require a ⅔ supermajority vote for any school board who chooses not to use a books recommended by the state and allows parents to bypass the local school boards and appeal the decision to county boards of education. Jackson was quoted in the press release, “Book banning is not acceptable and will not stand in

California,” This sends a clear message that such actions will not be tolerated. We stand united in our commitment to protect our students’ access to diverse educational materials and ensure an inclusive educational environment. We will not go backward. We will meet this historical moment.”

“As I stated in my response to the Attorney General on June 22, 2023: “The Board remains steadfastly committed to compliance with all laws, providing a safe-learning environment for all

students, prohibiting any activity that is discriminatory towards any student or staff member, and fulfilling its statutory duty to comply with all mandates of the Education Code related to the adoption of curriculum. The Board is charged with meeting the needs of its local community, and believes it is doing so appropriately and lawfully, and free from unlawful discrimination, said Dr. Joseph Komrosky – School Board - 4th District (R, N), A.R.R.T., Ph.D.

Rotary Club of Menifee names new president

she is a facilities property manager. Mills is setting the picture for the Rotary Club of Menifee for the 2023-2024 year with the theme of “bridging the gap.”

Mills joined the Rotary Club because she felt that the Rotary Club encompassed what her heart has always felt. “Service Above Self,” which is the Rotary motto, or “do unto others as you would have them do unto you” is the motto by which she lives. Her goal for the year is to bring a fun, project-filled year to the Menifee community.

To increase the amount of service the Rotary Club can accomplish; Mills encourages people to join the Rotary. She feels that through joining Rotary people can build relationships and grow their ideas with other service-oriented people. Three of her favorite events as a Rotarian have been the Rotary Leadership Institute, the Rotary Club of Menifee School Supply Drive and the first Ignite Event which brought multiple Rotary Clubs together.

If you are interested in learning more about the Rotary, meetings are held the second and fourth Tuesday of the month at 11:45 a.m. at Mt. San Jacinto College Menifee Campus, 28237 La Piedra Road, in the 3000 Building.

Submitted by Rotary Club of Menifee.

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

Kristina Mills is Rotary Club of Menifee’s new president for the 2023-2024 year.

Valley News/Courtesy photo

CDs can be part of your investment strategy

deservedly so, because they often form the core of a portfolio. But to help achieve your goals, you may also want to consider a broader array of investments, one of which may be a certificate of deposit (CD).

As you may know, a CD earns interest on a lump sum for a designated period. You can purchase CDs whose maturities range from a few months to 10 or more years.

been seen in more than 15 years. Later in 2023, though, if the Fed eases up on rate hikes, or perhaps even starts reversing them, CD rates could fall again.

In the financial world, stocks and stock-based mutual funds often get a lot of attention. And

Generally, the longer-term the CD, the higher the interest rate, although this isn’t always the case. In recent years, CD rates have been pretty low, reflecting the overall interest-rate environment. But now, as the Federal Reserve has repeatedly raised interest rates to combat inflation, CD rates are rising, too. In fact, one-year CDs can currently be found paying in the 5% range, a rate that hasn’t

You can purchase a CD from a bank or buy a “brokered” CD from a financial services provider. The income you receive from a CD may be its main attraction, especially if the rates remain elevated for a while. But there’s another key advantage to owning CDs: They can help diversify a portfolio of stocks and stock mutual funds that are generally more susceptible to movements in the financial markets. A portfolio that contains CDs, as well as bonds and government securities, can help reduce the effects of market volatility. Keep in mind, though, that diversification can’t guarantee profits or prevent losses in a declining market.

While adding individual CDs can be valuable, you might get a greater benefit from a more strategic approach known as laddering. You can build a CD ladder by buying a series of CDs that mature at different dates in the future, perhaps one month, three months, six months, nine months and 12 months out, or an even longer-term ladder of one to five years. In either case, as one CD matures, you can use the money if you need it or reinvest it to another “rung” on your ladder. If interest rates are up, the reinvestment option might be appealing, but if the available CD rates are lower than your maturing CDs, you could find better uses for your money. And you’d still have your longer-term CDs, possibly paying higher rates, working for you. You must evaluate whether a CD ladder and the securities held

within it are consistent with your investment objectives, risk tolerance and financial circumstances.

The amount of space occupied by CDs in your portfolio should depend somewhat on your stage of life. If you’re a long way from retirement, you may want to own a larger percentage of growthoriented investments. But once you’re retired and getting more income from your portfolio becomes more important, you might find a greater need for CDs.

In any case, CDs may prove useful to your overall financial strategy, so give them some thought.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor, Nima Helmi, who can be contacted at 951-972-3071. Edward Jones, Member SIPC

‘Kool Summer Nights’ begin at the historic Estudillo Mansion Aug. 2

Staff Writer

Many residents of San Jacinto and the neighboring communities in August will have another escape from the expected heat waves with the city’s annual Kool Summer Nights concerts held on the grassy grounds and shady trees of the historic Estudillo Mansion on Wednesday nights.

Five top local bands that will be appearing have been announced by the city and the sponsoring

Hemet/San Jacinto Chamber of Commerce.

Beginning Wednesday, Aug.

2, Endeavor will perform their timeless classics, followed by the Mickie Arnett Band, Aug. 9, with more classic rock and some good old country music. The mood will change Aug. 16, with the Echoes of Cadence and their 70s and 80s mixed with progressive rock sounds. The stage will rock Aug. 23 with Thunder bringing country music to the forefront with dance and fun.

Cheez Whiz will put on some of the favorite 80s music Aug. 30, mixing rock, country and folk together.

All and all, this year’s Kool Summer Nights at the Estudillo Mansion, 150 Dillion Ave., in San Jacinto “will be bigger and better than last year,” Tara Magner of San Jacinto’s Economic Development and Special Projects Department, said.

In August 2022, for the first time since the pandemic disrupted entertainment across the country,

about 200 residents showed up for each event.

“This year we expect 1,000,” she said.

Coming with the outdoor entertainment that starts at 6:30 p.m. each Wednesday evening will be The Mac Truck, So Cheesy Grilled Cheese, Wood Fire Pizza Wagon and other vendors offering a variety of items, cooling drinks, shaved ice, ice cream and kettle corn. Adults 21+ can enjoy the beer and wine garden.

Family activity and community

organization booths are expected as well. For safety’s sake, there will be no outside alcohol, no smoking and no dogs or pets permitted on the grounds.

Visitors to the outdoor concert are urged to arrive early, bring lawn chairs and warm clothing for the cooler part of the evening. Parking is available in the parking lot of the Mansion or on the surrounding streets, where permitted.

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

3-year-old accidentally fatally shoots 1-year-old sibling

Julie Reeder

Publisher Tony Campbell

Ac Investigations

A Fallbrook family’s life was changed forever on Monday morning, July 17, when their 1-year-old girl was accidentally shot and killed by her 3-year-old brother.

Sheriff’s deputies responded to the 1100 block of South Stagecoach Lane around 7:30 a.m. Monday, July 17, after a report regarding an accidental shooting.

The San Diego Sheriff’s Department reported that deputies arrived and confirmed a 3-year-old got hold of an unsecured handgun. The family’s 1-year-old, whose name is not being released at this point out of respect for the family and the fact she is a juvenile, had a head injury

Fire Department personnel ar-

rived on scene and transported her to Palomar Hospital with a Sheriff escort. Despite lifesaving efforts, she was pronounced dead at about 8:30 a.m. NCFPD PIO John Choi said, “A patient was confirmed a GSW (Gun Shot Wound) and in CPR status, and was pronounced at the hospital.”

According to Tony Campbell of AC Investigations who was on the scene for Village News, the father was outside on the front porch and was visibly in distress. The mother seemed in shock as she walked to an unmarked Sheriff’s vehicle. It is not known if she was being taken to the hospital to be reunited with her son. According to an unnamed source, “The big brother didn’t realize what had happened.”

The case is being investigated by homicide, however, it’s being investigated as a death investiga-

tion and not a homicide.

In a press release from the sheriff’s department, they said,”The sheriff’s department extends our sympathies to the family and those affected by this death. Sheriff’s homicide investigators are working to gather more information to determine the circumstances of the death.”

According to the sheriff’s department, the medical examiner’s office is also investigating to determine the cause and manner of death.

An yone with information regarding the shooting is urged to call the Homicide Unit at 858285-6330. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 888-580-8477. During after-business hours, calls should be directed to 858-565-5200.

FIRES from page A-1

The fire broke out around 3:30 p.m. Friday northeast of Gilman Springs Road and Jack Rabbit trail. There were 152 structures threatened, but no structures destroyed or damaged.

An evacuation center for people and small animals was set in place at Beaumont High School at 39139 Cherry Valley Blvd. Large animals were being accepted at the San Jacinto Animal Shelter, 581 South Grand Ave.

A total of 88 fire engines, seven water tenders and numerous air tankers were utilized to suppress the spread of the fire.

“Our goal is to strengthen and improve our containment lines and get around the body of the fire, most notably up in the head of the fire where we have several housing communities,” Incident Commander and Division Chief Josh Janssen said Sunday. The

cause of the fire was still under investigation.

The next largest fire was the Reche Fire, which started Friday, July 14, in the 9400 block of Reche Canyon Road, Moreno Valley. It burned 437 acres as of Tuesday with 90% containment.

The Gavilan Fire started Saturday, July 15, near Gavilan Road and Smith Road in Lake Matthews. It burned 338 acres as of Tuesday and was 60% contained. The cause is still under investigation.

The smallest fire, the Highland Fire in Beaumont, was holding at 105 acres and was 98% contained as of Tuesday with no road closures or evacuations. It broke out

dale Street, according to Riverside County Fire. The cause of the fire was not known as of press time. City News Service contributed to this report.

Valley News/Courtesy photo

Nima Helmi

Tony Ault

Riverside doctor accused of sexually assaulting patients arrested again, arraigned

City News Service

Special to the Valley News

RIVERSIDE - A physician and operator of a Riverside skincare clinic accused of sexually assaulting four female patients pleaded not guilty today to multiple felony offenses and was released from jail after posting a $1 million bond.

Dr. Sam Sannoufi, 52, of Newport Beach was arrested for the second time in less than two weeks last Friday and booked into the Robert Presley Jail, where he initially was held without bail.

Sannoufi is charged with five counts of sexual battery of an unconscious person, three counts of sexual penetration of an unconscious person and one count of oral copulation of an unconscious person.

He was arraigned before Riverside County Superior Court Judge Mark Johnson, who scheduled a felony settlement conference for Aug. 29 at the Riverside Hall of Justice.

Sannoufi’s attorney, Paul Grech, submitted a motion arguing for a bail reduction based on his client’s lack of prior criminal history, and the judge agreed, removing the defendant’s no-bail hold and setting his surety at $1 million, which Sannoufi promptly provided, securing his release from custody.

He was arrested for the first time on June 27 in connection with an earlier investigation involving a woman who had visited his Timeless Skincare Laser Clinic Primary Care at 6900 Brockton Ave.

“The investigation continued, and additional victims (came)

forward with similar allegations they were sexually assaulted by Dr. Sannoufi,’’ Riverside police spokesman Officer Ryan Railsback said last week.

One victim, identified in court documents only as “C.F.,’’ alleged she was assaulted in 2017. Another woman, “S.A.,’’ was allegedly assaulted in January and March 2020, as well as last June. The third victim, “J.V.,’’ alleged she was assaulted in March and June 2021. The last victim, “K.T.,’’ was allegedly assaulted on June 12, according to the criminal complaint.

Railsback said the latter victim contacted the agency’s Sexual Assault-Child Abuse Unit soon afterward, alleging that she was assaulted during a consultation, Railsback said SACA detectives gathered sufficient evidence

to obtain an arrest warrant, and Sannoufi was summoned to the department’s Orange Street station, where he was taken into custody without incident last month. He posted a $1 million bond and was released from jail a couple of hours later.

Sannoufi has no documented prior misdemeanor or felony convictions in Riverside County.

According to the Medical Board of California, the defendant has been a licensed doctor in the state since March 2009. He’s a graduate of the Ukrainian State Medical University in Kiev and has no listed disciplinary actions, administrative citations or malpractice suits on file with regulators in California.

Dr. Sam Sannoufi, 52, of Newport Beach was arrested for the second time for sexual assault on a patient. Valley News/Courtesy photo

Man who killed boys in rage over doorbell prank sentenced

City News Service

Special to the Valley News

A Corona-area man who chased down and rammed a car occupied by six teenagers, causing the vehicle to crash and kill half of the boys, was sentenced Friday, July 14, to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

A Riverside jury in April convicted 45-year-old Anurag Chandra of three counts each of murder and attempted murder, along with special circumstance allegations of taking multiple lives and sentenceenhancing great bodily injury allegations, for the January 2020 attack.

“The lives of countless families will never be the same because of one man’s anger, callousness

and outrageous conduct, and I am grateful to Judge Valerie Navarro for imposing the maximum sentence in this case,’’ District Attorney Mike Hestrin said Friday.

During the sentencing hearing at the Riverside Hall of Justice, Craig Hawkins, father of Daniel Hawkins, who was among the teens killed, read a letter to the court, saying “Every day, we sense the absence of this young man.

The hole in our hearts and lives from the taking of our son’s life is staggering.’’

In addition to Dan Hawkins, Chandra killed Jacob Ivascu and Drake Ruiz on Jan. 19, 2020. Ivascu was from Riverside; the other two were from Corona. All of the boys who died were 16.

A 13-year-old boy, 14-year-old

boy and 18-year-old man, who was driving the car that was struck, suffered moderate to major injuries and were treated at Inland Valley Medical Center in Wildomar. They have since recovered to varying degrees.

According to prosecutors and California Highway Patrol investigators, the boys were having a Sunday night sleepover at one of their homes and decided to try a “doorbell ditch’’ prank in the neighborhood, on Modjeska Summit Road in the Temescal Valley, just south of Corona.

Shortly after 10 p.m., five of them piled into a Toyota Prius parked on Modjeska Summit Road, while another went to Chandra’s residence and rang the bell several times, investigators

said. The youth then ran to the Prius, which raced away from the location.

According to a District Attorney’s Office statement, Chandra “chased after the Prius in his 2019 Infinity Q50.’’

“As Chandra pursued the victims, he rear-ended the Prius and sideswiped the vehicle until they were forced to stop,’’ according to the agency. “The Prius made a Uturn to escape; however, Chandra continued his pursuit.’’

Investigators said that the defendant bore down on the Prius at 99 mph along Temescal Canyon Road, approaching Squaw Mountain Road. Chandra rammed the Prius, causing it to spin out of control and slam into a tree on the side of the road.

Family members told reporters that the boys were fleeing out of fear and were trying to avoid a confrontation with Chandra. There was no prior dispute between him and the teens, according to prosecutors.

Witnesses followed Chandra back to his residence and alerted CHP officers, who arrested him roughly four hours after the deadly collision.

Chandra had no documented prior felony convictions, but at the time of his arrest, he did have an unresolved misdemeanor case for battery on his wife and child endangerment. Those charges were folded into the murder case and disposed with it but did not factor into his sentence.

Man who caused Elsinore resident’s fentanyl-induced death headed to prison

A man who sold a deadly dose of fentanyl to a 26-year- old Lake

Elsinore resident was bound for state prison Monday, July 17, to serve an 11-year sentence.

Everardo Martinez Rodriguez, 31, of Lake Elsinore pleaded

guilty in May to voluntary manslaughter and sentence-enhancing allegations of targeting a vulnerable victim and taking advantage of a position of trust.

In exchange for his admissions, the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office dropped a seconddegree murder charge against Rodriguez.

During a hearing Friday at the Southwest Justice Center in Murrieta, Superior Court Judge John Monterosso certified the terms of the plea agreement and imposed the sentence stipulated by the prosecution and defense.

The defendant was arrested last year following a sheriff’s investigation into the death of Gavin Battle.

According to Sgt. Ryan Marcuse, on Jan. 5, 2021, deputies and paramedics were called to the victim’s residence in the 29000 block of Central Avenue, near Conrad Avenue, to investigate reports of a possible drug-related cardiac arrest.

Battle was found dead at the location, Marcuse said, adding that an autopsy revealed “fentanyl poisoning” as the cause of death, prompting an investigation that ultimately pointed to Rodriguez as the dealer who supplied an undisclosed quantity of the synthetic opioid.

An arrest warrant was obtained and served by deputies on March 4, 2022 at the defendant’s home

FATALITY from page A-1

between slower vehicles.

He was mainly going between traffic in the No. 3 and 4 lanes, riding the Harley at 15 mph.

“The motorcyclist attempted to pass between two big rigs,’’ according to a CHP statement.

“For an unknown reason, he laid his motorcycle down, and he was ejected from his motorcycle. He went into the No. 3 lane, and he was run over by the rear trailer wheels of the big rig.’’

The trucker apparently never realized that he had rolled over the motorcyclist and continued forward, with witnesses behind him unable to get his attention, the CHP said.

on Limited Avenue, where he was taken into custody without a struggle.

Rodriguez had a misdemeanor vandalism conviction from 2012, but no felony convictions, according to court records.

Since February 2021, more than two dozen people countywide have been charged in connection with fentanyl poisonings.

According to public safety officials, there were 503 confirmed fentanyl-related fatalities countywide last year, compared to just under 400 in 2021, a 200-fold increase from 2016, when there were only two.

Fentanyl is manufactured in overseas labs, principally in China, according to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. The agency said it’s smuggled across the U.S.-Mexico border by cartels. The drug is 80-100 times more potent than morphine and can be mixed into any number of street narcotics and prescription drugs, without a user knowing what he or she is consuming. Ingestion of only two milligrams can be fatal.

Fentanyl is now the leading cause of death for Americans between the ages of 18 and 45 years old, statistics show.

Riverside County Fire Department paramedics reached the location about 20 minutes later and pronounced the victim dead at the scene.

CHP officers attempted to find the tractor-trailer but never did. One witness said the semi had the words “Pan American Cargo’’ painted on the trailer, which was white. No license plate number was recorded.

Northbound I-15 was partially shut down for over two hours while a preliminary investigation was conducted.

Anyone with information about the 18-wheeler or its driver was asked to contact the Temecula CHP office at 951-506-2000.

Hall & Oates Private Eyes tribute band entertains crowd at TNEF at the Santa Rosa Plateau benefit

Tony Ault

Staff Writer

Oh-oh… Here they come! Private Eyes, one of the best Hall & Oates tribute bands in the country, performed live at the Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve Saturday, July 15 during The Nature Education Foundation’s third benefit concert.

Mark Wilson as Daryl Hall and Nate Beausoleil as John Oates led the Private Eyes band in the songs and antics by the famous 1970s pop-rock duo to a crowd of TNEF supporters, their guests and friends. With the strong beat and vocals of songs like ”Maneater,” “One-on-One” and “Private Eyes,” some of Hall & Oates 1970s chart

Valley News/Tony Ault photos

Mark Wilson as Daryl Oates, right, and Nate Beausoleil as John Oates lead the Private Eyes band with “Out of Touch,” one of Hall & Oates top hit songs during the TNEF benefit concert, Saturday, July 15.

Nate Beausoleil as John Oates plays one of the duo’s top hit songs on his guitar at the TNEF benefit concert.

Stephen Herring, Private Eyes saxophonist gets down on the rhythm of a Hall & Oates saxophone-backed hit song at the TNRF concert.

[Top left] Andre Ribeior on the saxophone leaves his keyboard to join Chris Wilshire on bass guitar. [Top right] “Cowboy” Jon Reuter. TNEF sponsor from Electrical Work Inc., congratulates the 50-50 Drawing winner Ilka Siegmund and the winner of a tour of the Plateau Kelly Smith.

[Middle] Getting in the mood to hear Private Eyes is Danny McCall, 6, putting on a John Oates stick-on mustache like the pop rock star wears.

[Bottom left] Private Eyes saxophonist Andre Ribeior leads a line of dancing concert goers with his rendition of the song “Love Train.”

[Bottom right] Teen volunteers working at the summer concert take a break to enjoy dancing to the band.

see CONCERT, page B-7

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

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

CHILDREN’S EVENTS

July 21 - 6 - 10 p.m. Menifee Amazing Animals at Moonlight Markets at Centennial Park, 31161 Shire Horse Way, Menifee with the movie Puss & Boots.

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 22 12-2 p.m. MilVet puts together CARE packages for troops overseas with members of the Storm staff and Players at the Diamond Taproom at the Diamond Stadium. 500 Diamond Drive, Lake Elsinore. A joint care package packing event with MilVet and Thunder Cares, a charitable arm of the Storm baseball team both nonprofit 501c3 agencies. RSVP required see milvet.org/storm23.

July 26 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 24 - 6 p.m. Educational talk on what prehistoric creatures roamed the area presented by Brittany Stoneburg from the Hemet Science Center. The presentation will take place at the Little Temecula History Center, 32075 Wolf Store, Temecula, or watch the program livestreamed on the Temecula Valley Historical Society’s Facebook page. Email info@temeculahistory.org.for more information.

July 28 to Aug. 11 - 10:30 a.m.

to 3:30 p.m. City of Temecula’s

16th Annual Ralph Love Plein Air Competition begins. Local artists are invited to enjoy two weeks of painting scenic Temecula locations. The city honors him, and emerging local artistic talent, with this annual competition between Plein artists.

Plein Air artists are invited every year to paint different locations around the city. Those locations include Old Town Temecula. Temecula Wine and Temecula Parks.

New to the competition is the Youth Category. Artists aged 17 and under are encouraged to participate for a chance to win a large prize basket of art supplies! Stamps for canvas submissions are available inside the Temecula Valley Museum (closed

Mondays)/

July 28 - 6 p.m. Menifee’s Arts in the Park taking place at Audie Murphy Ranch Sports Park, 30376 Lone Pine Dr., Menifee. Comedy of Errors by William Shakesphare played by the Full Circle Players and presented by the Menifee Arts Council and City of Menifee. Bring lawn chairs, warm clothing and a sense of humor. Food vendors and childrens games.

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 951-674-2159

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

ONGOING – If you know a homebound older adult, resources in Menifee are available, including grab-and-go, cooked and frozen food for pickup. Courtesy pantry items and meals delivered with no contact. Three days of emergency food can be delivered immediately or restaurant meal delivery for those who don’t qualify for food assistance programs. Call the California Department on Aging at 800-5102020 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 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, Septem-

ber 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 – Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous, a free 12step recovery program for anyone suffering from food obsession, overeating, undereating or bulimia, has meetings throughout the U.S. and the world. Contact 781-9326300, 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

Registration is open for the 16th annual Ralph Love Plein Air Competition, presented by the city of Temecula’s Arts & Culture Division

through Friday, August 11.

The late Ralph Love painted his masterpieces from his “Art Shack” art studio in what is now Old Town Temecula. His work is highly collectible, and we honor him, and emerging local artistic talent, with this annual competition.

Best in show for the 15th annual Ralph Love Plein Air Competition was a piece by Vicki Pederson.

TEMECULA – Local artists are invited to enjoy two weeks of painting scenic Temecula loca-

tions in the City of Temecula’s 16th Annual Ralph Love Plein Air Competition from Friday, July 28

Plein Air artists are invited every year to paint different locations around the City of Temecula during the competition. New to the competition is the Youth Category. Artists aged 17 and under are encouraged to participate for a chance to win a large prize basket of art supplies! Canvas submissions must be stamped from

Spirit of Innovation brings its grand finale

Chelsey Romano

Special to the Valley News

There may not be fireworks, but there will be a grand celebration as local news program Spirit of Innovation, presented by JDS Creative Academy, is wrapping up its 5th season of the regularlydistributed feature-style newscast for Riverside County with a great lineup. Chock full of informative and impactful segments, Spirit of Innovation is ready to close out the season with a bang, sharing all the good-to-now, need-tonow, and did-you-know local news, events, and information.

Did you know Riverside County is considered a media desert?

In 2018, Spirit of Innovation became the first locally distributed TV show to help to improve this scarcity for the County’s 2.5 million residents. While other mainstream local newscasts mainly concentrate on Los Angeles and San Diego Counties, Spirit of Innovation is produced by the Temecula-based award-

winning nonprofit JDS Creative Academy and covers local news and information for Southwest Riverside County in a magazinestyle monthly broadcast. The award-winning broadcasted and live-streamed television show sets out to inform the public on topics that affect residents and businesses regarding governmental happenings, procedures, and economic concerns, along with heartwarming stories about nonprofits and citizens who make a difference. Spirit of Innovation and its micro-show, SOI Update, bring the news, weather, sports, events, activities, and impactful information which a county of 2.5 million residents needs and expects. The show creates awareness and excitement about the county and shares opportunities the public wants to know about.

JDS Creative Academy not only supplies news and information about Riverside County, but they also use the production of the program as a training vehicle for adults with develop-

mental disabilities, interns, and entry-level profess ionals in a cross-collaborative fashion; these diverse populations learn video production, multimedia, and how to be a part of an inclusive creative company that gives back to its community and profession.

During the first several seasons, the show had a dedicated host, but this past season Spirit of Innovation began highlighting county stakeholders and having them serve as guest hosts. This has been a positive experience for the show’s viewers and for the stakeholders themselves to gain exposure for their business and service of the region. Spirit of Innovation plans to continue this tradition, as it is important to connect with those who want to make change occur and spread the word about what’s happening in the community.

July’s season closer of Spirit of Innovation will be guest hosted by JDS Creative Academy’s cofounders and Spirit of Innovation’s creators, Diane and Scott

Friday, July 28 through Friday, August 11, to qualify for judging.

Stamps for canvas submissions are available inside the Temecula Valley Museum from 10:30 am – 3:30 pm (closed Mondays).

Artists may choose to paint any of the following locations:

• Old Town Temecula

• Temecula Wine Country

• City of Temecula Parks

All eligible entries will be on display at the Temecula Valley Museum in the Ralph Love Plein Air Exhibition from Friday, August 18 through Sunday, Oct. 29.

A public reception with live music and refreshments will be held

at the Temecula Valley Museum on Friday, Sept. 22, at 5:30 p.m.

Competition Awards include: Best of Show / City Purchase Award ($500); 1st Place ($200); 2nd Place ($100); 3rd Place ($75); and Best of Youth Category (art supplies basket). Awards will be announced at the reception.

Plein Air artists may apply online at TemeculaCA.gov and register for activity #9030.201.

There is a non- refundable application fee of $30. For additional information, please contact the Arts & Culture Team at 951-6946450, or email ArtsAndCulture@ TemeculaCA.gov

Strand. The episode shares segments on the business of nonprofits and includes Mona Davies, PhD, founder of the Community Outreach Ministry and a 2023 Nonprofit of the Year honoree. The show also includes a compelling segment on Riverside County’s Regional Conservation Authority with Aaron Hake, Deputy Executive Director. He talks about how this organization came about and its function. We also hear from Philip Southard, City of Menifee’s Public Information and Legislative Affairs Officer and Jeff Monford, Senior Advisor of Corporate Communications with SoCal Edison in a followup story about the cutting-edge energy-saving technology in a new KB Homes community. Spirit of Innovation will also bring you a new segment from one of JDS Creative Academy’s video production job-training students called Corina’s Corner; it is a good-to-know segment in which Corina Corona shares upcoming local music events. The

music culture in Riverside County has blossomed throughout the years and is a staple activity in the warmer months. Moreover, Spirit of Innovation loves to promote access to the arts and music community, sharing fun local events with the county

The season closer drops on July 20 and will air with current good-to-know and need-to-know information until the 6th season opener drops in September. You can find the newest episode of Spirit of Innovation continually airing and streaming on RivCoTV, Murrieta TV, Temecula TV, and Menifee TV, as well as on Youtube and the Spirit of Innovation website at https:// spiritofinnovation.org.

For more about Spirit of Innovation, visit the website, follow SOI_NewsInfo on Instagram, and follow the new Facebook page, Spirit of Innovation Local News. Be in the know and tune in to watch local with Spirit of Innovation.

Valley News/Courtesy photo

Movie reviews: ‘Elemental,’ ‘Insidious: The Red Door,’ ‘Sound of Freedom’

Bob Garver

Special to the Valley News

A quick explanation about this week’s movies: with an estimated $40 million at the domestic box office, “Sound of Freedom” had the most money at the end of the weekend. But because it made it a point of opening Tuesday, July 4, instead of the usual Friday, it had a three-day head start over “Insidious: The Red Door,” which finished with $32 million. I’ve decided to give attention to both movies. I’m also throwing in “Elemental,” which I would have reviewed two weeks ago had I not been on vacation.

“Elemental”

After the streak-breaking disaster that was last year’s “Lightyear,” Pixar is back to making decent movies. Not great movies – this one isn’t on the level of “Toy Story” or “Up” – but solid, enjoyable movies.

Fire-person Ember, played by Leah Lewis, lives in Element City

with her immigrant parents. She meets water-person Wade, played by Mamoudou Athie, and the two work toward a shared goal of saving her parents’ store. The two become friends and eventually fall in love, but for various reasons, fire-people and water-people are forbidden from touching.

The clunky metaphor sometimes gets in the way of the message of racial and cultural harmony – because yeah, fire and water shouldn’t mix if the goal is anything other than extinguishment – but the movie still serves up an imaginative, funny world and heartfelt performances. It’s familiar and occasionally predictable territory for Pixar, but “Elemental” represents a welcome return to the familiar.

Grade: B-

“Elemental” is rated PG for some peril, thematic elements and brief language. Its running time is 101 minutes.

“Insidious: The Red Door”

I’ll be honest; I had retained

very little about the “Insidious” series going into “The Red Door.” That’s partly because this franchise has been dormant for over five years, and partly because it’s easy to confuse it with similar supernatural horrors from the “Conjuring” universe, which also stars Patrick Wilson, who here serves as director.

Returning characters Josh Lambert, played by Wilson, and his son Dalton, played by Ty Simpkins, underwent hypnosis to forget the events of the first two films. Nine years later, as Dalton is entering college, the two have a strained relationship to go with their shared foggy past. The two characters, in their own ways, are forced to confront their pasts and their connection to the world known as “The Further” and the demons and spirits that live within.

Aside from one admirably claustrophobic sequence in an MRI machine, “Insidious: The Red Door” is content to settle for startles when it should be striving for scares. I’ll

no doubt be back to forgetting all about this series in no time.

Grade: C“Insidious: The Red Door” is rated PG-13 for violence, terror, frightening images, strong language and suggestive references. Its running time is 107 minutes.

“Sound of Freedom”

The depraved world of child trafficking is the setting for “Sound of Freedom,” a film that is disturbing to its core, yet manages to stay within the confines of the PG-13 rating.

Jim Caviezel, who is no stranger to challenging subject matter since taking on the ultimate highpressure role in “The Passion of the Christ,” stars as Homeland Security agent Tim Ballard, who switches his career aspirations from merely catching child predators to actually rescuing children. The story follows him on both a well-backed sting operation and a rogue lone mission as he attempts to reunite a family whose two children have been taken.

Flaws like poor pacing are balanced out by the dedicated performance by Caviezel and the film’s obvious good intentions in raising awareness of an uncomfortable, yet important issue. That is, until a mid-credits “special message” where Caviezel directly implores the audience to encourage others to spend money on the film. This spot could have been used to promote an anti-trafficking organization of some kind instead of the film itself which has done a great job of raising awareness of the issue, as well as make the project a financial success, far surpassing the $14 million spent to create the film.

Grade: C-

“Sound of Freedom” is rated PG-13 for thematic content involving sex trafficking, violence, language, sexual references, some drug content and smoking throughout. Its running time is 131 minutes.

Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@ nyu.edu.

Pala Casino Spa Resort presents Smokey Robinson Aug. 19

PALA – Pala Casino Spa Resort will present acclaimed singersongwriter, Smokey Robinson, Saturday, Aug. 19, performing live outdoors at the Starlight Theater. The show will start at 8 p.m.

Smokey Robinson’s career spans over four decades of hits. He has received numerous awards, including the Grammy Living Legend Award, NARAS Lifetime Achievement Award, Honorary

Doctorate from Howard University, Kennedy Center Honors and the National Medal of Arts Award from the President of the United States. He has also been inducted into the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame

Crossword Puzzle: On the road

Smokey Robinson will perform at the Starlight Theater Saturday, Aug. 19. Valley News/Courtesy photo and the Songwriters’ Hall of Fame.

Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, Robinson founded The Miracles while still in high school. The group was Berry Gordy’s first vocal group, and it was at Robinson’s suggestion that Gordy started the Motown Record dynasty. Their single of Robinson’s “Shop Around” became Motown’s first No. 1 hit on the R&B singles chart.

In the years following, Robinson continued to pen hits for the group, including “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me,” “Ooo Baby Baby,” “The Tracks of My Tears,” “Going to a Go-Go,” “More Love,” “Tears of a Clown,” which was co-written with Stevie Wonder, and “I Second That Emotion.”

In addition to writing hits for the Miracles, Robinson wrote and produced hits for other Motown greats, including The Temptations, Mary Wells, Brenda Holloway, Marvin Gaye, and others. “The Way You Do the Things You Do,” “My Girl,” “Get Ready,” “You Beat Me to the Punch,” “Don’t Mess with Bill,” “Ain’t That Peculiar” and “My Guy” are just a few

of his songwriting triumphs during those years. He later turned to a solo career where he continued his tradition of chart-topping hits with “Just to See Her,” “Quiet Storm,” “Cruisin’,” and “Being with You,” among others.

Following his tenure at Motown, Robinson continued his impressive touring career and released several successful solo albums. Throughout his 60-year music career, Robinson has accumulated more than 4,000 songs to his credit and continues to thrill sold-out audiences worldwide with his high tenor voice, impeccable timing and profound sense of lyric and style.

Tickets prices are $85, $110 and $135 and are on sale now at the Pala Box Office, 877-946-7252, http://www.palacasino.com, 800514-3849 and http://www.etix. com. This show is one of a lineup of headliner and tribute concerts that will be held at the Starlight Theater and Events Center. Must be 21 or older to attend.

Submitted by Pala Casino Spa Resort.

Pre-planning and when to start

Mark Bailey Special to Valley News

One of the primary reasons for pre planning final arrangements is to alleviate the burden and stress on loved ones during an already difficult time. By taking the initiative to plan ahead, individuals can ensure that their wishes are known and respected, sparing their family and friends from making potentially difficult decisions on their behalf. This preparation can provide a great sense of peace and comfort, knowing that their final wishes will be carried out according to their desires.

Preplanning for final arrangements refers to the process of making decisions and arrangements for one’s own or a loved ones’ funeral or memorial service in advance. It involves considering various aspects such as burial or cremation, location of the service, type of ceremony, how you want to pay for all the services and other specific details that can be decided upon well before the actual need arises.

In the context of event planning, pre planning is a step in organizing any successful gathering, whether it’s a wedding, a conference or a birthday party. It involves determining the budget, selecting the venue, creating a guest list, and arranging for catering, entertainment and transportation. By carefully considering these aspects well in advance, event planners can address any challenges or obstacles that may arise and make the necessary arrangements to ensure a memorable occasion for all. Substitute the word “event” for a “funeral service,” and all the same things apply as to what goes into making a great plan for funeral arrangements.

Additionally, pre planning allows individuals to personalize their final arrangements, tailoring them to their preferences and reflecting their unique personality and values. It can include choosing specific readings or music, opting for a particular location or

venue and selecting the style of their memorial marker or urn. By taking control of these decisions, individuals can leave a lasting legacy that accurately represents who they were.

Pre planning also provides an opportunity to consider the financial implications of final arrangements and make necessary arrangements to cover these costs.

Funeral and memorial services can be expensive, and pre planning allows individuals to explore different options and make financial arrangements in advance. It can help prevent loved ones from facing unexpected financial burdens at an already emotionally challenging time.

Furthermore, pre planning final arrangements can help ensure that all important documents and paperwork are in order. It allows individuals to gather and organize important legal and financial documents, including wills, insurance policies and beneficiary information. It can facilitate the settlement of their estate and help streamline the administrative processes after their passing, reducing stress and additional workload for their loved ones.

Overall, pre-planning for arrangements is about considering the future and making preparations to ensure a smooth and successful outcome. By thinking ahead, identifying potential challenges and taking necessary actions early on, individuals and organizations can save time, resources and energy in the long run. Whether it’s organizing events, managing projects, or handling personal affairs, pre-planning is an essential skill that facilitates efficient decisionmaking, improves outcomes and reduces unnecessary stress. So, next time you have an important event or project coming up, remember the value of pre-planning to set yourself up for success.

Pre-planning for final arrangements is a thoughtful and proactive step that allows individuals to make decisions about their funeral

Deciding to pre plan a funeral or memorial service depends on a few factors that should be discussed with family.

or memorial service in advance.

It offers peace of mind, personalization, financial considerations and the organization of important paperwork. By taking the initiative to pre-plan, individuals can ensure that their final wishes are respected and relieve their loved ones of unnecessary burdens during an already challenging time and plan financially to alleviate the burden being placed on any other loved one.

When is the right time to start finding a counselor to put your own plan in place? The answer depends on your personal circumstances and preferences. Here are some factors to consider.

Age

While there’s no hard and fast rule, many experts recommend starting preneed planning in your 50s or 60s. If you have significant health concerns or a family history of health problems, however, starting earlier may be wise.

Family situation

Do you have a spouse or partner who will be involved in your end-of-life planning? Children or other family members who may need to be consulted or included in the process? Depending on the complexity of your family situation, it may be wise to start the conversation and planning process earlier rather than later.

Financial situation

Pre-need planning can involve significant financial decisions, such as deciding whether to prepay for funeral expenses. If you have the means to do so, prepaying can be a wise decision to ensure that your wishes are carried out without burdening loved ones with unexpected expenses. If you’re not in a position to pre-pay, however, there are options to spread the payments over as long as 10 years while still locking in the prices and guaranteeing the services desired.

Planning counselor

Once you’ve decided that pre planning is right for you, the search for a counselor can begin. Look for someone who is licensed and experienced in preneed planning, and with whom you feel comfortable working. They should be able to answer any questions you have about the pre-need planning process and provide guidance on making key decisions about your end-of-life arrangements.

There’s no set timeframe for when to find a preneed planning counselor. It’s all about your individual circumstances and comfort level; however, it’s important to start the preneed planning process sooner rather than later to ensure that your wishes are carried out and your loved ones are not left with difficult decisions or financial burdens upon your death.

Mark Bailey is the chief operating officer of The Burial Plan.

Valley News/Adobe Stock photo

Cognitive decline: How home care can help

ment and supervision.

Felicia Horton

Special to the Valley News

As families watch their loved ones age, they naturally become more attuned to the changes that come with the process. One of the most concerning issues is the possibility of memory and thinking problems. It can be challenging for the person to learn new things, concentrate or make decisions that affect their daily life. Unfortunately, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are the most common causes of cognitive impairment among older people. Families should be aware of the signs and symptoms of these conditions so that they can

take the appropriate steps to help their loved ones maintain their quality of life.

It’s common for older adults to experience a decline in cognitive abilities, leading to various challenges and difficulties. Fortunately, mental care is available to provide specialized support and assistance to older adults struggling with cognitive impairments like dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Through cognitive care, older adults can receive the help they need to maintain their cognitive abilities, promote mental well-being and live in a safe and nurturing environment.

Cognitive impairments can significantly impact an older adult’s

daily life, relationships and wellbeing. That’s why mental care is crucial in enhancing cognitive function, providing emotional support and ensuring safety by tailoring interventions and activities to individual needs. Cognitive care helps older adults maintain and improve their cognitive abilities, memory and problem-solving skills. Cognitive care professionals also offer emotional support, creating a calm and reassuring environment that promotes mental well-being. Additionally, cognitive care includes measures to ensure the safety of seniors with cognitive impairments, from fall prevention strategies to medication manage-

In-home caregivers are trained to assist with physical exercise, mental workouts, planning a brainboosting diet and other activities that can help support memory retention and cognitive functions. But equally important is their companionship and friendship, which can provide emotional support and help older adults feel more connected and engaged. Basic cognitive care techniques may require special preparation, such as improving diet, exercising and getting more mental stimulation. In-home caregivers will work these into an older adult’s daily life along with other resources. With the proper care and support, older adults with cognitive impairments can continue to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives.

One of the most significant advantages of in-home care is that it allows older adults to remain in their own homes for as long as possible, which may be less disorienting for someone with dementia than a move to an assisted living facility, a memory care unit, or a nursing home.

Caring for a person with cognitive impairment can be challenging as families encounter communication difficulties, repetition, aggressive or impulsive actions, paranoia, memory problems, in-

continence, poor judgment and wandering. It’s essential to remember that the illness, not the person, causes these behaviors. Patience, compassion and a sense of humor help families cope with these challenging behaviors.

Try employing these helpful tips for managing these issues. Use communication techniques like speaking in simple language and asking one question at a time. Break down tasks and questions into simple statements. Allow time for the person to respond to each question and request.

If you notice wandering or poor judgment, it may be necessary to provide 24-hour supervision. Create a home safety checklist and know who to contact in an emergency. If walking or aggressive behaviors are a concern, don’t hesitate to contact emergency, police, fire or medical systems. Home care can be an excellent option for older adults who want to stay in their homes for as long as possible. It can help them feel more comfortable and less confused. Caregivers can monitor symptoms, ensure patients take their medication and encourage them to stay active. The most important thing to look for in any in-home care agency must be the safety and happiness of their patients.

Temecula Valley Hospital is nationally recognized for its commitment to providing high-quality cardiovascular care

The American Heart Association presents the Get With The Guidelines and Mission: Lifeline awards for proven dedication to best practices and life-saving care

TEMECULA — Temecula Valley Hospital, part of Southwest Healthcare, has received three achievement awards bestowed by the American Heart Association

Get With The Guidelines and Mission: Lifeline achievement awards for demonstrating commitment to following up-to-date, researchbased guidelines for the treatment

of heart disease and stroke, ultimately leading to more lives saved, shorter recovery times and fewer readmissions to the hospital. Every 40 seconds, someone in

Favors for Neighbors

Favors for Neighbors is a 501(c) (3) certified Non-Profit focused on helping the senior community AT NO COST to them and to help them avoid getting ripped off, scammed, and have less risk of injury. One lady was charged $100 just to change smoke alarm batteries, another $120 to change HVAC filters. We help seniors with things they can’t do for themselves or can’t afford - like home repairs, weed abatement to minimize fire, home cleaning, household organization, incorrect billing issues and much more. We provide a repair service, but what we’re really delivering is KINDNESS, companionship, compassion if only for a few hours – to change their state from isolation and depression to A BIG SMILE OF GRATITUDE - every time

Too good to be true – Yes, it is. We do it anyway!

But we need your help with Donations and Volunteers.

Nobody else does this at no cost to the senior. Please take the opportunity to build something special with us.

Call Michael Saiz to learn more at 951-239-6953 www.favorsforneighbors.org

Email mike at: mikesaiz33@gmail.com

Pacific Manufactured Homes makes it easy to add a rental or A.D.U. by managing the process from start to finish – including financing, permits, utilities, and more. Increase your monthly income! Floorplans of all shapes and sizes to choose from!

Donations Needed

Please open your hearts and help cover the costs. Use the QR code below.

Volunteers Needed

We cannot do it alone, we need help to help others.

the U.S. has a stroke or heart attack, and heart disease and stroke are the No. 1 and No. 5 causes of death in the United States, respectively. Studies show patients can recover better when providers consistently follow treatment guidelines.

Get With The Guidelines and Mission: Lifeline put the expertise of the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association to work for hospitals nationwide, helping ensure patient care is aligned with the latest evidenceand research-based guidelines. As a participant in both programs, Temecula Valley Hospital qualified for these awards by demonstrating how its organization has committed to improving quality care.

“Temecula Valley Hospital is honored to be recognized by the American Heart Association for being committed to improving care by adhering to the latest treatment guidelines and streamlining processes to ensure our patients have the best chance of survival when it comes to heart disease and strokes,” said Darlene Wetton, Chief Executive Officer at

Temecula Valley Hospital. “The Mission: Lifeline and Get With The Guidelines quality improvement programs make it easier for our teams to put proven knowledge and guidelines to work on a daily basis, which helps us ensure more people in the communities we serve experience longer, healthier lives. To receive the Gold award level in all three categories is a testament to the commitment and dedication our teams have to providing the highest level of quality patient care.”

This year, Temecula Valley Hospital received these achievement awards: Get With The Guidelines®Stroke GOLD PLUS with Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite and Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll Mission Lifeline® - STEMI Receiving Center – GOLD PLUS Mission Lifeline® - NSTEMI – GOLD

“We are pleased to recognize Temecula Valley Hospital for its commitment to caring for those in their community who need cardiovascular care,” said Dr. John Warner, M.D., FAHA, past president of the American Heart Association and CEO of The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. “Hospitals that follow the American Heart Association’s quality improvement protocols often see improved patient outcomes, fewer readmissions and lower mortality rates – a win for health care systems, families and communities.”

Submitted by Temecula Valley Hospital.

Valley News/Courtesy photo

Board of Supervisors approve future Wellness Village relocaton from Hemet to Mead Valley

MEAD VALLEY – The Riverside County Board of Supervisors approved the location of the future Wellness Village to move to Mead Valley Tuesday, July 11. The action allows Riverside County to use $80 million in state grants already secured for the project, with the potential for an additional $250 million in available government funding.

Mead Valley is an ideal location as it is an underserved area in a populous region of the county that will significantly benefit from

comprehensive health services for all ages that will be offered at the Wellness Village. In addition, the health hub will provide an economic driver for the area, creating 600 jobs and generating activity for local businesses. The community benefits available at the Wellness Village will include a public market and cafe, pharmacy, WIC office, dental and medical services and veterans support, as well as onsite therapeutic services. The project will also include much needed recreation

Nutrition offers a holistic path to wellness

FALLBROOK – North County

Parkinson’s Support Group Fallbrook invites anyone interested to join its monthly Parkinson’s Support Group meeting, Friday July 28, 10 a.m. to Noon, at the Fallbrook Regional Health and Wellness Center 1636 E. Mission Road. The speaker will be Shelly Cobb, founder and CEO of Thrive Wellness and Research Corporation in Temecula.

Cobb will talk about “Nutrition, A Holistic Approach to Wellness.” She is a board-certified holistic health educator specializing in nutrition and exercise. She embarked on a personal health journey due to a health crisis and autoimmune issues. She understands first-hand what it takes to thrive well. Now she uses her passion for health and nutrition to help others achieve optimal health, fitness, and wellness.

Cobb has degrees in education and holistic nutrition; she is a holistic nutrition professional, holistic health practitioner, certified personal trainer and wellness coach as well as an autoimmune paleo coach and certified gluten free practitioner. She has had autoimmune issues ever since she was a baby. She

CONCERT from page B-1

toppers, many of the concert goers could not stop coming to the dance area in front of the plateau’s Pavilion stage.

The audience danced and swayed while helping with the vocals of arguably one of Hall & Oates most famous songs. “Oh-oh, here she comes. She’s a maneater.”

Another crowd pleaser was a surprise performance by Private Eyes saxophonist and keyboard player Arthur Pruitt Jr. with his saxophone rendition of “Love Train,” leading many of the concert goers to join shoulderto-shoulder weaving with the music through other cheering onlookers. Adding another touch to the special fundraiser event were volunteer Riverside County Sheriff’s deputies handing out stick on mustaches to both children and adults in order to look like John Oates with his famous mustache.

For those attending the third TNEF fundraiser outdoor summer concert, a cool breeze on the plateau was a welcome break to the 100 plus degree Fahrenheit temperatures in the valley. It was even more of a treat with wine from Plateau Vineyards, major sponsor of the TNEF events, beer from Garage Brewing, and soft drinks and water available to the younger guests and non-drinkers. Food from Naughty Pig Butchery in Murrieta was also enjoyed and is available to preorder at every TNEF summer concert.

An art show with some of the

also had childhood epilepsy from age 1-23 and currently has Celiac disease. A holistic doctor helped her turn her health around and encouraged her to become a nutritionist. “I love helping people improve their health through nutrition, lifestyle education, and exercise. Seeing clients succeed in improving their health and reaching their goals is one of the best joys, and I am thankful to be part of it,” Cobb said. “If a person understands their health and what is needed to improve it, they will apply that advice.

I t is here at this junction where change can take place and lives are changed,” she added.

In addition to the speaker presentation, breakout groups held for a time of sharing, coffee and refreshments will follow the program.

Meetings are held in support of persons with Parkinson’s disease, care partners and people interested in improving the world of those affected by Parkinson’s disease, on the fourth Friday of every month.

For more information, call Irene, 760-731-0171 or Lorie, 760-4533045 or email NCPSGF@gmail. com.

Submitted by the Fallbrook Parkinson’s Support Group.

area’s best wildlife and plateau artists preceded the concert. Featured artists donate 30% of all their sales to the foundation to further its nature preservation programs for 3rd graders through high school students.

Jon Hunneman, a member of TNEF board of directors and a former radio announcer, acted as the night’s emcee announcing this week’s winners of a 50-50 drawing and an auction that offers an interpreted VIP tour for six people of the Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve. The night’s Private Eyes performance was sponsored by the family of Janet and John Webb and co-presented by Winchester and Associates Insurance Services.

Other tribute bands performing this summer will be 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. Tickets for the TNEF summer concerts are only available online and can be purchased for $55 per person at www. plateauconcertsandart.org

The Nature Education Foundation at the Santa Rosa Plateau offers VIP tickets for tables suitable for groups at the outdoor performances. TNEF suggests visitors bring their own lawn chairs, a warm jacket and hard toed shoes since they are outdoor performances. Call 951-319-2998 or email info@srpnef.org for more information and membership offers.

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

areas, gardens, rest areas and trails for community members using services.

“I am very pleased to bring the Wellness Village, and these critical services, to an underserved area of the county, where there is only one doctor and one dentist,” county board Chair Kevin Jeffries of the First District said. “The community has been vocal about the need for more support and services, and I’m happy we’re making it happen.”

The new Mead Valley site will be 20 acres, compared to 13 acres at the previously identified location in Hemet. The Wellness Village was relocated from Hemet because of a variety of concerns relating to water supply, fire-life safety design, off-site improvements and compatibility with existing surrounding land uses.

The services of the wellness village are critical for all communities in Riverside County,” county

Supervisor Yxstian Gutierrez of the Fifth District said. “While we ultimately did not move forward in Hemet, I’m grateful we can still bring this crucial project to a region where many local residents can get the critical services they need.”

Future items on the Wellness Village will return to the county board of supervisors for additional community input and review.

Submitted by Riverside County.

Our

Habitat for Humanity given funding for six Temecula homes

Joe Naiman Writer

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development provides Neighborhood Stabilization Program funding to local governments including counties which administer the NSP program for incorporated cities. The Riverside County Board of Supervisors has authorized the use of $1,379,087

Answers for puzzle on page B-4

of NSP funding for six singlefamily homes to be built by Habitat for Humanity Inland Valley in Temecula.

The supervisors’ 5-0 vote Tuesday, July 11, approved a loan agreement with Habitat for Humanity Inland Valley for the use of the NSP funds. The interest-free loan is for $1,313,417, and the supervisors’ action also allocated $65,670 for county staff and deliv-

ery costs. Because federal funding is involved the project is subject to the National Environmental Policy Act as well as the California Environmental Quality Act, and the supervisors made a Finding of No Significant Impact for the NEPA documentation.

The development will be on two legal parcels totaling approximately 0.46 acres in the 28700 block of Pujol Street. Each single-family

townhome unit will be approximately 1,255 square feet with three bedrooms and 2 1/2 bathrooms.

The homes will be sold to and occupied by qualified very-low income or low-income, first-time homebuyers within the designated Neighborhood Stabilization Program target area in Temecula. The income of the homebuyers may not exceed 80% of the area median income for Riverside County, and

the occupancy of the units will be income-restricted for a period of at least 15 years. The maximum purchase price may not exceed $551,000 for new homes and may not exceed the appraised value of the property. Habitat for Humanity will provide each homebuyer with a fixed-rate mortgage loan.

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

County assessment valuation reaches $400 billion milestone

Riverside

RIVERSIDE COUNTY – Continued strong demand for real estate and a resilient economy overcoming interest rate hikes led to a 9% increase in assessment valuation in Riverside County going into 2023, according to the Riverside County AssessorCounty Clerk-Recorder. It marks the second year in a row of strong growth in assessed value as values also rose 9% the year previous.

Assessor-County Clerk-Recorder Peter Aldana announced recently that the total taxable value of all Riverside County property for the current year grew to over $400 billion for the first time ever, totaling $404 billion, a $35 billion increase. This year’s tax roll – a list of all taxable property, its owner and its value as of Jan. 1 – will

Upgraded Home Ranch Property

are very spacious. Fully enclosed patio, community pool, clubhouse, and much more. All appliances are included, and some furniture can also stay for the right price.

Offered at $390,000

PRICE REDUCTION

From the moment you step into this 6.57 acre horse ranch property and view the 4 bedroom, 4 bath, 3700 square foot, single story home, you will want it, guaranteed, and in an exclusive area. Highly upgraded, with new painting, inside and out Extensive RV storage. Call for immediate private showing.

Offered at $999,000

Ranch Style Home

3 bedroom, 2 bath and detached 2 car garage. Spanish tile throughout. Large living room, formal dining room with fireplace, huge bedrooms. All appliances are included. Workshop in the garage, inside laundry room.

Offered at $475,000

generate roughly $4 billion for local government services.

“Surpassing the $400 billion mark is a historic achievement for Riverside County,” Aldana said. “It signifies the remarkable growth of our county and reflects the confidence individuals, businesses and investors have in our region. Plus, once again, I have to give credit to the coordinated team effort that completed a growing assessment roll on time during another busy year.”

The median home price in Riverside County grew to $615,000 in 2022, a 9.1% increase from 2021, according to the California Association of Realtors.

Property owners may review their 2023 assessment roll value by visiting the Riverside County

Unparalleled Views

UNBELIEVABLE OPPORTUNITY! Mountain top custom home estates and/or excellent mountain top transmitter tower location - run! You won’t want to miss this! TV, RADIO, CELL TOWER LOCATION or perfect for Contractor, Developer, Entrepreneur, Owner-Builder > Four ten-acre parcels with Southern California’s best views! City close / Country feel.

Offered at $249,000

Turnkey Senior Home PRICE REDUCTION

55+ SENIOR golf community 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 $425,000

Assessor public access online services website at https://cariverside-acr.publicaccessnow. com/Home.aspx or calling 951955-6200. Although the assessor works to enroll fair-market values, an owner might disagree with the valuation. Those owners may file a free decline-in-value application online. Applications are due by Nov. 1 and are available at https:// ca-riverside-acr.publicaccessnow. com/E-Forms/DeclineinValueApplication.aspx.

Property owners also may request a formal hearing before the Assessment Appeals Board. The deadline to file is Nov. 30. The application is available on the Clerk of the Board’s website at https:// aao.countyofriverside.us.

For more information or to contact the Riverside County Assessor-Clerk-Recorder, visit http://www.rivcoacr.org.

Submitted by Riverside County.

MENIFEE – Menifee Police Department will conduct a bicycle and pedestrian safety enforcement operation Monday, July 24, directed at keeping people who need to go out to exercise or run essential errands safe.

The Menifee Police Department recognizes the need to protect the public by looking for violations made by bicyclists, drivers and pedestrians that make roads unsafe. Residents of Menifee enjoy getting out of the house to ride bicycles and going on walks. The Menifee Police Department said it wants to ensure they are safe when they do so, and they are going to be on the lookout.

These violations include drivers speeding, making illegal turns, failing to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, failing to stop for signs and signals or any other traffic violation. Officers will also look for pedestrians who cross the street illegally or fail to yield to drivers who have the right of way. Bike riders will be stopped when riding on the wrong side of the road, not complying with stop signs and signals or other violations of the same traffic laws that apply to them as drivers.

“Just because individuals are on bicycles and walking doesn’t mean traffic rules go out the window for them,” former Chief Pat Walsh said. “To protect you and your family, we want to make sure those that are out are following rules intended to keep them safe.”

The safety of bicyclists and pedestrians remains a top priority for the Menifee Police Department. In 2022, the Menifee Police Department investigated two deadly and 24 injury collisions involving bicyclists and pedestrians.

To keep you and your family safe, the Menifee Police Department offered the following tips when out biking, driving or walking: Only cross at marked crosswalks or intersections with a stop sign or signal; look for cars backing up. Avoid going between parked cars; make eye contact with drivers. Don’t assume they see you and wear bright clothing during the day and use a flashlight when walking at night.

Submitted by Menifee Police Department.

Local players taken in the 2023 Amateur MLB Draft

JP Raineri

Sports Editor

SEATTLE – The 2023 Major League Baseball Amateur Draft wrapped up Tuesday, July 11, coinciding with All-Star week in Seattle this year, where a total of 614 selections were made over a three-day process.

The Pittsburgh Pirates selected LSU’s Paul Skenes as the No. 1

overall pick, a slot worth $9.7 million, but as of Monday, July 17, of the top five picks, only one player had actually agreed to terms with the club that chose them. Max Clark’s slot value was worth $8.3 million, but the high schooler from Indiana signed for $7.7 million to the Detroit Tigers.

As mentioned last week, one never knows what will happen in the war rooms (aka draft rooms),

and while we noted there may be some semi-local players that could have heard their names called, we also cited there was no one from the immediate Valley News coverage area that we thought was on the radar to be picked. Boy, were we wrong! Our list included Grant Grey and Cameron Kim of Norco High School, as well as Eric Bitonti of Aquinas, and Luke Scherrer of

Yucaipa. Of the four, we know they all received phone calls during the draft, and we know in all but three of the cases, the slot money, or lack thereof, seemed to make sense, in their own right. Bitonti was picked in the third round by the Milwaukee Brewers, a slot value worth almost $800,000. The other three want to hopefully increase their draft stock by playing in college.

Our list did not include former Great Oak standout Zach Arnold, who was drafted out of high school in 2019 to the Baltimore Orioles in the 34th round (back when the draft was forty rounds, prior to COVID). Arnold Chose to go to LSU, before transferring to Houston two years ago and was picked up this year in the 14th

Temecula 12-year-old grabs baseball gold with Team USA

a walk-off drag bunt.

“It was an awesome experience,” says Miller. “In the Mexico qualifier, we played against other international teams from nine different countries where it was very loud and exciting during the games. I did my best to block out the noise and stayed focused when I was pitching. I also got to make new friends on our USA Team with players from all over the US and got to experience the culture in Mexico and traveling there.”

The battle between the WBSC U-12 Baseball World Cup Americas Qualifier’s two highest scoring teams lived up to the hype. Team USA led 15-6 in the third before Venezuela scored 19 unanswered runs to lead by 10 in

the fifth, 25-15. The U.S. added two in the bottom of the fifth, but Venezuela added three in the sixth to earn the game’s largest lead at 28-17 headed into the final inning. With three outs left in the game, Team USA stayed calm, collected, and patient at the plate to score seven until it had one out to go. Zaylon Johnson stepped up to the plate with the bases-loaded and hit a grand slam to tie the game. One inning later, an error on a sacrifice bunt allowed Team USA to win gold and set a 12U National Team record for most runs scored in a single game.

Team USA had five players earn honors at the WBSC U-12

see USA, page C-3

JP Raineri Sports Editor AGUASCALIENTES, Mexico

–

It’s been a summer to remember for Temecula’s Jacob Miller, a 12-year-old that stormed onto the scene recently, representing the United States on the baseball field. Miller was selected to join Team USA after attending a tryout through their National Team Identification System about 18 months ago. In total, he attended

three different tryouts before being selected for the USA 12UNational Team. It’s a challenging process that starts with about 5,000 youngsters, before they get to the final selection for the 18-man roster.

The first stop for Jacob and Team USA was the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) U-12 Baseball World Cup Americas Qualifier, held in Aguascalientes. After pool play and making their way through

the winners bracket, it all came down to Team USA (9-0) where they overcame an 11-run deficit to win gold with a 29-28 win over Venezuela (6-3) in seven innings on Sunday, May 28.

When Team USA faced Venezuela in the Opening Round, nearly a week earlier, the 25-24 game ended with a U.S. walk-off home run. Fast forward to Sunday and the two teams combined for eight more runs scored in the contest, but this time it ended with

Former Great Oak standout, Zach Arnold, who played this past season at the University of Houston, was picked up in the 14th round of the 2023 MLB Amateur Draft by the Philadelphia Phillies. Valley News/Courtesy photo

Former Temecula Valley standout, Cole Urman, who just finished his junior year at Cal State Fullerton, was taken in the 16th round of the 2023 MLB Amateur Draft by the Baltimore Orioles.

Recent Temecula Valley High School graduate, Adler Cecil, was selected by the San Diego Padres in the 19th round of the 2023 MLB Amateur Draft. Valley News/David Canales photo Valley News/Courtesy photo see DRAFT, page C-2

Temecula’s Jacob Miller warms up to pitch for Team USA during the WBSC U-12 Baseball World Cup Americas Qualifier in Aguascalientes, Mexico, earlier this summer. Valley News/USA Baseball photos

Team USA’s Jacob Miller was named the best pitcher and earned AllTournament honors at the WBSC U-12 Baseball World Cup Americas Qualifier this past May.

Temecula’s newest indoor golf club takes Swing at improving your game

JP Raineri Sports Editor

TEMECULA – How’s your golf game these days? Is it good enough to play Torrey Pines, Pebble Beach, Pine Valley or even Augusta? Maybe it is, maybe it isn’t, but it could always be better, right? Courses like those obviously cost a pretty penny and aren’t close to home, but what if they were? And, what if you could play them for a fraction of the cost, and on your own time? Well, guess what?

The new Swing Indoor Golf Club in Temecula can put you right in the action of big-time courses, while helping you improve your game, all the while staying out of the heat. Let’s face it, it’s been hot lately, and it’s only going to get hotter in the summer months ahead…so, why not golf with the air conditioner on.

In the last decade, indoor golf has gained almost as much popularity as regular golf, and

local business owner Joseph Bortfeld, along with his family, jumped at the opportunity to join in on one of the fastest growing golf trends. The Swing Indoor Golf Club is Temecula’s newest indoor golf venue that offers a virtual golf experience for golfers of all abilities and ages. Though, Bortfeld says that it’s better to have some experience when visiting his establishment since it isn’t like what you would find at those light up arcade style venues, or even your typical driving range.

“Yes, it has all the feels of a being in a life size video game, but this is for those who wish to improve their game while having fun,” says Bortfeld. “We are pulling real time data for you, from swing speed and launch angle, to rotation and distance, and so much more.”

Like any other skill-based game, golf requires relentless practice. You will need to spend hours refining your techniques and perfecting your swings. However, not everyone is fortunate enough to live near a golf course or driving range that you can visit anytime.

Even if you are one of the lucky people, there are still concerns over those harsh weather days.

That’s not a worry at The Swing Indoor Golf Club because when you step inside the temperaturecontrolled facility, you will feel right at home with the setup. There are four bays with gigantic screens and well-padded turf areas, as well as optional tee sizes for club preference. There is even a separate driving range area, which is available at a low hourly rate.

“It’s all real time, so you get your data immediately, which allows you to fix something in your swing on your very next approach,” says Bortfeld. “I love seeing the look people get when they experience our version of simulator golf. Everyone is so eager to return.”

Bortfeld’s son, Brando, who is on the golf team at MSJC, was the deciding factor for this business venture, he said. “When COVID hit, he (Brando) was on the football team at Temecula Valley High School and was going through the recruiting process to play at the next level. That was a tough time for a lot of student athletes when their worlds got turned upside down by the changing landscapes of what colleges were doing. I’m not knocking what they did, but with more and more college athletes staying on for a fifth or sixth year, we knew that was going to hurt the chances of getting play time for younger college athletes.”

Golf was always something the Bortfeld family did for fun, but according to Joe, while his oldest son Santino liked the game, his youngest son really took to the game during his down time of the pandemic.

“All of the sudden Brando was all about golf, and I loved it,” Joe says. “He was playing with his friends, and asking me for tips, and while I always took my game seriously, I golf for leisure, so when he (Brando) wanted to take his game to the next level, we agreed he should aim his sights at MSJC.”

While sitting around the living room one day after work, which involves owning a logistics management company, Joe’s wife, Jen, had gotten on the topic of how hot it was that day, and wondered if there was a place where Brando could go to swing indoors. It was then that after doing some research, and learning

DRAFT from page C-1

round by the Philadelphia Phillies.

Also, not on our list were two Temecula Valley alumni in Cole Urman, and recent graduate, Adler Cecil. Urman graduated in 2019 and was a junior on the Cal State Fullerton baseball team this past season where he caught 49 of 56 games behind the plate for the Titans while hitting .270 with thirty runs, thirty RBIs and four home runs. He was taken as the 481st overall pick in the 16th round by the Baltimore Orioles. Cecil, a lefty pitcher and 2023 graduate had a good year on the mound with five wins and one loss with a 1.33 ERA over 50 innings and was a complete draft surprise.

The Golden Bear pitcher was a First team Southwestern League selection who had yet to announce a collegiate commitment, but managed to impress someone

there wasn’t much of an option here locally to practice golf inside, Joe’s imagination ran wild.

“We looked up at-home golf simulator options, and it seemed to be a business on the rise, but then I thought about how many more families there were like us, and that’s when we agreed to see what we could do to bring an indoor swing facility to the golfers of the Temecula Valley,” said Joe. With the concept on paper, and his construction skills on point, Joe met with designers of the electronic kind, got some finances together and brought his family’s idea to life over the past year. The outcome is something to be proud of as this isn’t a franchise in itself but has all the components to be one should they ever choose to branch out.

over in the Padres organization as he was taken in the 19th round as overall pick No. 581.

The Temecula Valley coaches must be doing something right with MLB scouts as three players have been taken in the last two drafts. Chris Paciolla was selected in the third round by the Chicago Cubs (No. 86 overall) in 2022 and is still active in the player development pipeline for the club, playing in the Arizona Complex League this year. So, what is next?

After an amateur player is drafted by a Major League Baseball team, he is given a period of a few weeks to negotiate a signing bonus and agree to a contract. That is where each of these local players stand currently. Though negotiated contracts will be public knowledge soon enough, each club has until 5 p.m. ET on Tuesday, July 25, to come to

With every ball strike the ambience is like being on a reallife golf course, allowing you to play in various locations. Every trip you take to the facility, can be like a new unique experience and there isn’t a group of golfers pressuring you from behind.

From the bird calls to the sounds of waterfalls, ocean waves, rain, wind or even the roar of the crowd, it’s easy to get lost in the game. There is even plenty of seating and room to enjoy your own snacks and drinks while waiting your turn. It’s also recommended you bring your own clubs, though they do have some to rent if needed.

“With the heat turning up, avoid the sunscreen, and come swing inside,” says Bortfeld. “We want to be an alternative choice to help improve anyone’s game or be an

terms with its Draft selections. If a player has exhausted his collegiate eligibility, he can sign at any time up until one week prior to the next year’s Draft.

Draft-and-follow picks for high school and junior college players selected after the 10th round who attend a two-year college after the Draft, can sign with their selecting teams for up to $250,000 up until a week before the following year’s Draft.

Each choice in the first 10 rounds comes with an assigned monetary value, with the total for a club’s selections equaling what it can spend in those rounds without incurring a penalty. If a player taken in the top 10 rounds does not sign, his pick’s value gets subtracted from his team’s pool.

In order to be eligible for the MLB first-year player draft, a player must be a resident of the United States or Canada and must

option for a fun trip out of the house for the family.”

To find out more information about The Swing Indoor Golf Club, or to book your tee time online, visit www.theswinggolf. com . Another great way to stay up to date is by following their Instagram page (@ theswingindoorgolfclub) to see if there is last-minute tee time available, or to check on discount rates and promotions. The facility is located at 27576 Commerce Center Dr., Ste. 101, in Jefferson Court, and while their hours vary, they are open most days by appointment only.

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

have never previously signed a contract with an MLB franchise. Players can be drafted right after graduating from high school, but if they have already begun to attend a 4-year university they must wait until after their third year or 21st birthday in order to take part in the draft.

Even though this year’s 20-round MLB draft has concluded, many organizations will continue to add college talent in the coming days as nondrafted free agents. NDFAs can sign deals up to $125,000. As of press time, the Valley News was unaware of any local SoCal players that have signed on as nondrafted free agents, but we will keep our ear to the ground as to what contracts get signed, or don’t get signed in the coming weeks.

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

Owner, Joe Bortfeld, left, goes over ball launch data from a customer as she prepares to hit a ball at the new Swing Indoor Golf Club in Temecula. Valley News/JP Raineri photos

After striking a ball, Joe Bortfeld, right, owner of The Swing Indoor Golf Club in Temecula, goes over launch angle data with a client.

Top Gun passing tournament adds Big Man competition to its inaugural showcase

several fields around the campus.

JP Raineri

Sports Editor

build on an excellent 2022 season under new head coach Juan Merida?

MENIFEE

– In preparation for the upcoming high school Football season, which begins Thursday, August 17, teams from the Inland Empire and the surrounding areas converged at Paloma Valley High School for the inaugural Top Gun Passing Tournament and Big Man Competition. The event was held Saturday, July 15, at Paloma Valley High School and was organized by the Wildcats new head coach, Juan Merida, and coach Christian Ruiz. Local teams participating included host school Paloma Valley, Chaparral, Orange Vista, Perris, Tahquitz, Temecula Valley and Vista Murrieta.

The 7-on-7 tournament games were timed as 20 minute games, with pool play taking place on

The Big Man Competition events included a Big Man Relay, Tractor Tire Flip, 5-man Sled, Prowler PUSH and weight lifting amongst the events. Cypress High School won the passing tournament portion while Chaparral High School won the Big Man Competition.

The 2023 football should be an interesting one for the local teams with a few questions to be answered such as:

Will the Liberty Bison improve on their success of last season and bring home a CIF championship now that they have experienced seniors on their roster?

Can returning head coach Coley Candaele duplicate his previous success with the Vista Murrieta Broncos in his second stint as head coach?

Will the Paloma Valley Wildcats

Will the Heritage Patriots rebound from a losing 2022 season and reclaim the Menifee Bowl Trophy in the neighborhood rivalry game versus Paloma Valley?

Was the Big West split really a good decision for the former Southwestern League teams that found parity is still an overwhelming issue? Stay tuned!

For more information on the inaugural Top Gun passing tournament and Big Man competition, the link for the brackets results can be found at www.tinyurl.com/TopGunPassing Article contributions made by Action Captures Media Group.

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

TVGSA 14U All-Stars prepare for Nationals

JP Raineri

Sports Editor

TEMECULA – With a load of talent, a great fan base, and some outstanding coaching, the 14U TVGSA All-Star Gold team has been grinding their way through the summer tournaments, in hopes of playing on a national stage. Those hopes recently turned into reality when they placed fourth, out of 22 teams, at the USA Softball State tournament last weekend. Not only did they compete well there, but the hardware has also been rolling in as they were 2023 Corona Diamond 14u Gold Champions, the 2023 USA Softball 14u Gold Districts Finalists, and as the 2023 Escondido Freedom 14u Gold Champions.

Adding to all their success, the team has qualified to represent the area in the USA Softball Western National Championships in Roseville, CA, starting next week from Monday, July 24, through Saturday, July 30. USA Softball of Sacramento will host this prestigious tournament.

Program Director Karla Burket says she takes deep pride in hosting a National Championship of this caliber and anticipates an incredible week for all to enjoy some of the best fastpitch softball in the country. “We hope your team takes home memories that you can treasure for many years to come.”

The TVGSA 14U Gold team will be in Northern California for a full week, which is the longest they have had to be on the road for a tournament this summer according to coach Fernando Cortez. “Our tournaments have only taken place over the course of a weekend up until this point, so they are pretty excited for this opportunity to

USA from page C-1

Baseball World Cup Americas Qualifier with Jacob Miller earning the tournament’s Best Pitcher award, recording the most wins (3) and lowest ERA (0.50). With the top-four finish at the WBSC U-12 Baseball World Cup Americas Qualifier, Team USA will head to the WBSC U-12 Baseball World Cup in Tainan, Taiwan, later this summer. The U.S. is the defending champion after defeating Venezuela in the 2022 edition. This will be the sixth World Cup appearance for the 12U National Team after winning four of the five that it has previously participated in.

“The most exciting part was just getting to represent our Country and wear the USA uniform,” added Miller. “Playing for Team

compete to take home another Softball title.”

Cortez is no stranger to teaching what it takes to compete at a high level, in fact, if the name sounds familiar, it is because Fernando is a former Major League Baseball player that spent his career with the Tampa Bay Devil Rays and Kansas City Royals organizations. Cortez was drafted to the Rays in 2001 with the 259th pick overall, out of Grossmont College.

While he last played for the Royals in 2007, Cortez and his family relocated to the area a few years back where he opened his own facility to help train players and also found himself getting into real estate. His daughter, Madison, took to the game and has excelled on the softball field, making this her third

USA has been a dream and goal of mine. I was nervous at first but once the games started, our team came together and we won the gold medal, going 9-0. We helped the USA qualify for the upcoming 12u World Championship in Taiwan.”

After returning home to Temecula, Miller, who started his playing days as a T-Baller with French Valley Pony, was invited back out to train in Cary, North Carolina in hopes of making the final 18-man roster for the next leg of the 12U National team’s journey in Taiwan from July 28-August 6.

Fourteen players on that Training Camp roster, with Miller in tow, were reunited after just helping Team USA win gold.

The roster was selected after an extremely competitive week of training and when USA Baseball named the final 18-man roster

time being an all-star. Fernando stepped up to the plate to help coach when she was in 12U and while he focused more on older teams this past year, he decided to help out with this year’s 14U Gold team.

“I didn’t want to let this opportunity get past me,” said Cortez. “She will be headed off to Temecula Valley High School this year, and who knows how busy she will be as a student athlete.”

The TVGSA All-Star team is currently looking for any help from the community that will help the families with costs to help cover expenses for traveling, eating and hotel accommodations while they take care of business on the field.

“Please know that no amount is too small,” added Cortez. “Your ongoing backing and support of our

for the 2023 12U National Team, Miller’s name was called yet again. Jacob says prior to being with Team USA, his competitive drive grew while playing with ZT National Prospects from Anaheim. “The major tournaments we go to helped me to compete against the best players at my age group in the Country.”

As for the team trials, Miller says they were incredibly challenging as it had 36 of the best players from around the US competing for only 18 spots. “I feel extremely fortunate and blessed to make the USA Team twice in 2023. I have a lot of people to thank, including my parents, coaches, my ZT organization, and USA baseball for the opportunity.”

The U.S. has a world-best four world titles at the U-12 level, having won three-consecutive gold

players is truly appreciated.”

The complete roster for the Sacramento bound all-stars from Temecula includes: Madison Clark, Julia Handschumacher, Imani Jaylynn Hill, Chloe Kosch, Charlotte Lampkin, Linda Leon, Paige Linehan, Carmella Mahoney, Samantha Myers, Brooklyn Najar, Blue Putman, and Kailah Smith.

For more information on helping the TVGSA All-Stars, visit www.app.99pledges.com/fund/ tvgsa14uallstarsnationals. To find out more information about the USA Softball National Championships, visit www.usasoftballsacramento. org JP Raineri can be reached by email at sports@reedermedia.com

medals in 2013, 2015, and 2017. It will look to defend its title this summer after taking home the title of World Champion in 2022.

This year’s roster features 11 players who were a part of the 12U National Team that won gold at the WBSC U-12 Baseball World Cup Americas Qualifier in May and will open up World Cup play against the Czech Republic on July 28 at 2:30 a.m. ET. The full 2023 12U National Team schedule can be found online, but as for California kids the roster also includes Micah Delosreyes (Moreno Valley), Ty Glaus (Son of former MLB slugger Troy Glaus; Del Mar), Gavin Gomez (Long Beach), Bryant Ju (Cerritos), Julian Knudsen (Los Angeles), and Michael Ohman (San Francisco). Jacob also said it was important to him to share this once-in a

lifetime experience with his parents, who have supported him in his baseball journey every step of the way since he was 4 years old. While Team USA pays for his travel, he wanted to start a GoFundMe page to help his parents, which can be found at www.gofund.me/c60a81ad.

“The funds I raise will be used to help with my family’s travel expenses to Taiwan and the hotel and expenses associated with our trip,” says Miller. “I really appreciate any help for an experience I will never forget.”

To follow Jacob and Team USA, visit www.USABaseball.com for the most up-to-date information or follow @USABaseball and @ USABaseball12U on Twitter. JP Raineri can be reached by email at sports@reedermedia. com

The 14U TVGSA All-Star Gold team qualified to represent the area in the USA Softball Western National Championships in Roseville, CA, starting Monday, July 24. Valley News/Courtesy photos

Blue Putman, a member of the 14U TVGSA All-Star Gold team, pitches in a recent tournament.

Brooklyn Najar, a member of the 14U TVGSA All-Star Gold team, waits for her pitch in recent tournament action.

A Temecula Valley player catches a pass against Vista Murrieta defenders during the inaugural Top Gun Passing Tournament and Big Man Competition held Saturday, July 15, at Paloma Valley High School.

Valley News/Action Captures Media Group photos

A wide receiver from Tahquitz catches the ball for the touchdown during the inaugural Top Gun Passing Tournament and Big Man Competition held at Paloma Valley High School.

Vista Murrieta linemen compete in competitions at the Top Gun Passing Tournament and Big Man Competition.

Tahquitz competed against Paloma Valley in the inaugural Top Gun Passing Tournament and Big Man Competition last weekend at Paloma Valley High School.

The heat is on: How to keep pets cool during heat waves

and bathroom breaks are fine in extreme heat but try to keep pets in the shade.

Be aware of the temperature of the sidewalk, asphalt, sand or even packed dirt as these can cause burns to your pet’s paw pads if they are too hot.

If pets do spend time outside during the day, ensure that they have access to shade at all hours of the day. Dogs on tethers are especially vulnerable because they could become tangled out of reach of shade or water.

Provide pets with fresh, cool water at all times as most dogs won’t drink hot water no matter how thirsty they are.

Dogs who are older or overweight, have a thick coat or a pushed-in nose are especially at risk of overheating.

Dogs with bald patches or minimal coats may need sunscreen. Consult a veterinarian.

inside a car, recycling hot air, panting gives no relief, and heat stroke can occur quickly.

“Heat stroke can occur when an animal’s temperature rises to a critical level,” Dr. Erin Katribe, medical director of Best Friends Animal Society, said. “Normal body temperatures for dogs and cats range from 100 to 102.5 degrees. When a dog’s temperature rises to 108 degrees, or to 106 degrees for a cat, they can suffer irreparable organ damage, or worse.”

According to Katribe, signs of heat stroke include heavy panting that does not resolve as the pet rests, increasing distress, a tongue color that is dark red to almost purple, weakness or collapse, hyper-salivation, vomiting and labored breathing.

LOS ANGELES – Summer is in full swing, and with that, temperatures across the country are reaching alarmingly high levels.

It’s hard to beat the heat even with easy access to air conditioning, icy drinks and

swimming pools. And it can be just as hard for dogs and cats on hot days.

To help pet owners keep their pets cool despite the rising temperatures, Best Friends Animal Society, a leading animal welfare organization working to end

the killing of cats and dogs in America’s shelters by 2025, is offering some tips. Exercise dogs during the cooler morning or evening hours, not in the intense afternoon heat. Keep pets indoors during the hottest parts of the day. Quick walks

Supervisors approve architect contract for Winchester and Lakeland Village fire station expansions

Joe Naiman

Writer

The Riverside County Board of Supervisors approved an architectural contract for the expansion of the Winchester and Lakeland Village fire stations.

The supervisors’ 5-0 vote Tuesday, July 11, authorized a professional services agreement between the county and Holt Architects Inc. The Palm Desert architectural firm will be paid $558,200.

Station 34 in Winchester is in the 32600 block of Haddack Street; it was built in 1999 and is currently 7,000 square feet. Station 11 in Lakeland Village is in the 33000 block of Maiden Lane, was built in 2001, and currently has 6,770 square feet of space. Both fire stations have single-room open sleeping quarters with no walls or partitions.

A June 2022 county board of supervisors vote approved the projects to expand the fire stations in principle, approved a preliminary budget of $6,100,000, authorized Developer Impact Fee funding for the projects, authorized the county’s Purchasing Agent to execute pre-qualified consultant service contracts, delegated project management authority to the director of the county’s Facilities Management department including the ability to utilize pre-qualified consultants and found the projects to be categorically exempt from California Environmental Quality Act review. The expansion projects will include six to eight dualoccupancy sleeping rooms for each station as well as larger kitchens and day rooms. The scope of the expansion will include but is not limited to grading, mechanical,

electrical, plumbing, masonry, concrete, framing, finishes and landscaping work.

Facilities Management advertised a request for qualifications to design the fire station expansions. Eight responses were received, and three architectural design firms were interviewed by facilities management and the Riverside County Fire Department. The selection committee determined that Holt Architects best met the program requirements.

After the design phase is completed, facilities management will return to the county board of supervisors for approval of an updated project budget and a request for a construction contract.

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

Never leave your pet in a parked car when the outside temperature is above 70 degrees. Many studies show that the temperature inside a car on a 70 -degree day can rise to 89 degrees in ten minutes, and to 104 degrees in as little as a half hour. Dogs and cats can’t sweat like humans, so they pant to lower their body temperature. If they’re

If you suspect a dog or cat is suffering from heat stroke, move them to a cooler environment immediately and apply cool water to the abdomen, ears and footpads. Once they are stable, bring them to a veterinary clinic as quickly as possible. Katribe said, things may be happening internally that are not obvious from the outside.

Submitted by Best Friends Animal Society.

Park district conveys Green Acres property to flood control district

The Riverside County Regional Park and Open-Space District approved the transfer of 1.04 acres in the Green Acres area of unincorporated Hemet to the Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District.

The Riverside County Board of Supervisors members are also the board members of the Riverside County Regional Park and OpenSpace District, and the county supervisors voted 5-0 Tuesday, July 11, to approve the real property conveyance. The county supervisors are also the board members of the Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District although no flood control district vote was necessary to accept the real property.

The property consists of three legal parcels which are vacant and are along state Route 74. The Riverside County Regional Park and Open-Space District was created in 1990, and at the time it acquired land adjacent to the Double Butte Landfill in Green Acres. The property has not been altered since its acquisition. The

Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District has an easement on the land, and a flood control channel exists on the property and is maintained by the flood control district.

When Riverside County Regional Park and Open-Space District staff reviewed potential surplus property the Green Acres land was identified. Discussions were held with the flood control district due to that district’s ownership of the flood control channel. Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District staff expressed an interest in acquiring the parcels. The flood control district intends to integrate the properties into the Green Acres Dam Project which would provide greater flood management capabilities in the area.

The county board of supervisors acting as the Riverside County Regional Park and Open-Space District board, May 2, voted 5-0 to declare the land surplus and approve a notice of intent to convey the property to the Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District.

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

EVMWD increases Delinquent Notice Fee

Joe Naiman Writer

The Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District has increased its Delinquent Notice Fee.

A 3-0 EVMWD board vote July 13, with Chance Edmondson and Jack Ferguson absent, approved an increase in the Delinquent Notice

Fee from $0.78 to $0.91 per notice effective August 1. The fee will increase to $0.93 per notice as of July 1, 2024. The changes also add that the $21.45 Delinquent Processing Fee for a service interruption warning letter physically placed at the service address is the maximum amount, as the district may be able to take advantage of parcel carrier agreements to place such notices.

If a residential water account bill is delinquent for at least 60 days service can be discontinued for non-payment. The district will attempt to contact an adult resident of the property by telephone or in writing at least seven days prior to disconnecting service. A written notice is provided to both the mailing address and the service address.

State law requires that the notice be provided in English, Spanish, Chinese, Tagalog, Vietnamese, Korean, and any other language spoken by 10% of the population in the service area. The written notice includes the customer’s name and address, the amount of delinquency, the date by which a payment arrangement is necessary to avoid discontinuation of service, a description of the procedure to petition for bill review and appeal, and a description of the procedure

by which the customer may request a deferred, reduced, or alternative payment schedule including an amortization of the delinquent charge. The need to cover printing costs, the language notification, and postage led to the EVMWD decision to increase the Delinquent Notice Fee to recover the estimated future costs.

A notice of imminent discontinuation of service for nonpayment along with a copy of the district’s discontinuation policy will be left in a conspicuous location at the residence at least 48 hours prior to the interruption of service. The notice is also provided in the six mandated languages. The Delinquent Processing Fee recovers the cost of the delivery and physical placement of the Final Service Interruption Warning letter.

The district’s Final Service Interruption Warning letters had been processed through Infosend, which contracted with Federal Express for delivery. However, the National Association of State Procurement Officials has a ValuePoint Master Agreement based on Utah’s agreement with Federal Express, and that master agreement allows California state agencies or local governments to obtain specialized rates for small package delivery services. The Elsinore Valley district had been utilizing that lower rate and charging $15.05, and the need to recover future processing, printing, and delivery costs has led to an increase to $17.51 for Fiscal Year 2023-24.

Dog Kali stays cool during a swim to chase her toy. Valley News/Best Friends Animal Society photo

Joe Naiman Writer

BUSINESS

Menifee’s Economic Development team receives two awards for innovative programming

MENIFEE – Menifee’s awardwinning Economic Development team continues to gain state and national recognition from industry leaders for their innovative programs that help spark business growth and prosperity in the community. At the recent California Association for Local Economic Development annual conference, the Economic Development Department received two Awards of Merit for the Menifee Workforce Development Center and the city’s Business Incentive Program. The Menifee Workforce Development Center, hosted in partnership with Riverside County Workforce Development, is available for free to qualifying residents and provides job candidates with several services including career coaching assistance, resume writing, job search assistance, skills development, specialized recruitment events and workshops.

The center also features a stateof-the-art computer lab staffed by Riverside County Workforce Development personnel.

“Prior to the Menifee Workforce Development Center, there was no local branch of its kind in all of southwest Riverside County and residents would have to travel to outside cities to receive these services,” Gina Gonzalez, director of Economic Development Department, said. “Thinking outside the box and partnering with the County’s Workforce Development Department and developing a pilot program, the city utilized Community Development Block Grant funds to open a pilot local workforce development center at the Senior Center and Menifee Library providing vital workforce services directly on both ends of the city.”

The city’s Business Incentive Program was also recognized by CALED for its success in helping to attract Savage Chef

Bar and Grill to Menifee. The Business Incentive Program was approved by the Menifee City Council in 2014 and is aimed at assisting in the acquisition of the most sought amenities, restaurants and entertainment requested by residents and visitors.

The Economic Development Department used this resource to develop a limited sales tax reimbursement agreement with Chef Dylan Soro, approved by the Menifee City Council, to bring a high-end, upscale restaurant to Menifee. Since opening in 2022, Savage Chef Bar and Grill continues to be a regional favorite and culinary success.

For more information about the City of Menifee Economic Development Department or to learn more about resources available to Menifee businesses, visit http://www.menifeebusiness. com or email econdev@ cityofmenifee.us

Submitted by the city of Menifee.

RCWD awards Carollo contract for rate and capacity fee study

Joe Naiman Writer

The Rancho California Water District board has commissioned Carollo Engineers Inc. to conduct updated cost of service studies which will be used for setting rates and capacity fees.

conducted in 2021 and updated the existing rate model, with minor adjustments, to reflect cost projections for the three-year study period. The most recent approval of a new water and wastewater capacity structure was in 2018; since then capacity fees have been annually updated based on the Construction Cost Index.

Naturopathic Doctor is sought to diagnose, treat, and help prevent diseases using a system of practice that is based on the natural healing capacity of individuals. Req: Doctoral degree in Naturopathic Medicine or related fields. California Naturopathic Doctor License is required. Worksite: Menifee, CA. Salary: $82,098 per year.

Send resume: C&C Natural Health Inc, 26820 Cherry Hills Blvd, Suite 4, Menifee, CA 92586.

Caregiver with 15 years of experience. References upon request. Maria DeCampos 203-841-7547. Looking for fulltime employment.

Stuff

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

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.

763-5510

ATTORNEY / LAW

THE LAW OFFICE OF JOHN M. BEALL Probate & Trust Administrations

Trust Litigation

Elder Abuse Litigation Conservatorships

Wrongful Death Litigation Wills & Trusts (877) 539-0444 (951) 894-1731

Free Consultations www.probatelegalservices.com

CONTRACTORS

MICHAEL B. McDONALD General Engineering Contractor

Excavating & Grading for New Homesites, Roads, Barn Pads, Ponds & Agricultural Developments License #359625-A

Cell: (760) 644-7541

MBM@McDonaldWestern.com

A 5-0 vote Thursday, July 13, with William Plummer and Bill Wilson absent, approved a $216,269 contract with Carollo to conduct a comprehensive five-year water, recycled water and wastewater rate cost of service study and a water and wastewater capacity fees and zone of benefit study. Carollo, which is headquartered in Walnut Creek and has an office in Costa Mesa, is scheduled to complete the updated rate study in May 2024 and the capacity fee study in January 2025.

In November 1996, the state’s voters passed Proposition 218, which requires a public vote on benefit assessments but exempts water and sewer rate increases if a cost of service study shows a relationship between the rates and the agency’s cost to provide service. A rate setting policy can be in effect for up to five years and must include a rate design and public review.

Rancho Water’s most recent rates and charges study was

LANDSCAPING

DOMINGO YARD MAINTENANCE Landscaping, Irrigation Systems, Hauling, Cleanup & more! FREE ESTIMATES

Reasonable Prices (760) 468-4467

FERNANDEZ LANDSCAPE Tree Service, Tree Removal, Stump Grinding, General Cleanups & Hauling, Gardening Service, Grass Removal, Sod & Re-seeding, Rock Yards, Walk Ways, Patio Slabs, Wood & Iron Fence Repair, Sprinkler & Sprinkler Repairs, Landscape & Renovation. Free Estimates (951) 368-8265

RCWD staff issued a request for proposals to conduct the cost of service studies. The request for proposals was posted May 3, and submissions were due by June 2.

Three companies responded. An evaluation team reviewed each proposal, conducted interviews with each firm and contacted references which were included in each proposal. The three proposals were ranked. The California Government Code requires professional services agreements to be awarded based on demonstrated competence and the professional qualifications necessary for the satisfactory performance of the services required rather than on the lowest price, and although Carollo had the highest fee the company’s proposal had the highest ranking.

Cost accounted for 10% of the total ranking with firm qualifications and experience, proposed staffing and work plan methodology each being worth 30% of the total ranking.

The scope of work for the water, recycled water, and wastewater rate cost of service study includes preparing a five-year financial plan and rate program which evaluates and recommends changes to support ongoing maintenance and operating costs along with capital needs, maintains appropriate reserve balances, evaluates and affirms the appropriateness of existing water rates and tiers including a review of drought rates and indoor and outdoor water budgets, evaluates the current wastewater rate methodology and alternatives and develops rates which meet the district’s financial needs while recognizing local and state policy considerations. The water and wastewater capacity fees and zone of benefit study will review the existing water and wastewater capacity fees and zone of benefit fees, develop an appropriate approach and methodology to calculate fees, and develop a financial model and provide an administrative record which recovers the costs of infrastructure assets, provides equability recovery costs from new connections and complies with government codes and industry-standard practices.

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

THRIFT SHOPS

ASSISTANCE LEAGUE OF TEMECULA VALLEY

Assistance League is a nonprofit service organization of volunteers committed to identifying and serving the needs of the Southwest Riverside communities through philanthropic programs developed and administered by our members.

28720 Via Montezuma Temecula, CA 92590

Thrift Shop Hours Wed & Fri 10am-4pm Thurs & Sat 1pm-4pm (951) 541-4429 assistanceleague.org/temecula-valley/

Kayla Charters, left; Gina Gonzalez, director of Menifee’s Economic Development Department and Daniella Milloy, right, display the awards the team won at the California Association for Local Economic Development annual conference. Valley News/Courtesy photo

Caltrans I-15 slab replacements slow traffic in Murrieta; More possible in other areas

Tony Ault Staff Writer

Area motorists traveling the Interstate 15 in Murrieta during the evenings last week were disrupted by major Caltrans work replacing a number of damaged concrete slabs, with more still possible on the freeways in the coming weeks. One lane access may slow traffic in the evening but will not close the entire freeway.

On the brighter side this week

$11 million was awarded to Riverside County Transportation Projects to address the continuing freeway traffic congestion, air pollution, and equity.

The RCTC will receive a $3 million grant from the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) to evaluate enhanced transit services on I-15, I-215, and along the San Jacinto Branch rail line in western Riverside County.

The planning grant is one of five Regional Early Action Planning grants (REAP 2.0)

awarded to projects in Riverside County, totaling more than $11 million. The state funded program accelerates progress toward the state’s housing and climate goals.

“REAP 2.0 provides vital funding to strategic transportation planning efforts that address traffic congestion, pollution, and equity across Riverside County,” said Commission Chair and Lake Elsinore City Councilmember

Robert “Bob” Magee. “RCTC and our partners will continue to work on implementing microtransit, Coachella Valley Rail, and active transportation projects with the help of the grant. We are grateful to SCAG and the State for spotlighting Riverside County transportation needs.”

The grant aims to reduce vehicle traffic and air pollution by encouraging housing closer to where people live and work.

The projects that will receive funding range from extending RTA’s GoMicro service in the San Jacinto/Hemet areas and studying ways to reduce vehicles’

miles traveled and construct more active transportation projects in the desert communities.

Temecula

Machinery and other equipment is moving alongside I-15 as work on the $139 million Infrastructure project begins that will within the next two years relieve traffic congestion seen every morning and afternoon in Temecula on a stretch of the freeway.. The project, the largest highway project in Temecula, will include adding two to three lanes on the northbound side of the freeway from Winchester Road to the Interstate I-15/215 split with a new flyover bridge and other bridge expansions at Santa Gertrudis Creek and Warm Springs Creek.

Hemet

Still scheduled is Caltrans work starting July 24 on the $51.6 million corridor improvement project on State Route 74 (Florida Ave.) in Hemet. This project will repave and rehabilitate 49 lane miles, install Traffic Management

Systems (TMS ), upgrade curb ramps, sidewalks and driveways to Americans with Disabilities Act standards, enhance bike lane signage and striping, and upgrade 29 bus pads within the project parameters. Weather permitting.

Crews will be working in and near Hemet on SR-74 from Winchester Road (PM 34.3) to Fairview Avenue (PM 45.1) 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.

San Jacinto

Caltrans still continues work on the $4 million safety project to construct a median concrete barrier and rumble strips on State Route 79 (SR 79) near San Jacinto. Schedule is dependent on weather and materials availability. Nighttime work is Monday through Friday - 7 p.m. to 5 a.m The Remaining work may require inside and outside (alternating) lane closures, in both directions. One lane will always remain open.

Idyllwild

Caltrans is working on the $470,000 emergency project to rehabilitate and repave State Route 243 in Idyllwild within the boundaries of Mount Jacinto State Park. Weather permitting.

Crews are working on SR243 from just south of North Circle Drive to just north of Pine Crest Avenue. Caltrans notified residents crews will be working on Saturday, July 22 as well as on July 24 - July 28: MondayFriday, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. They will be paving the roadway and replacing the pavement delineator markers and striping.

Expect one way traffic control with flagging throughout the construction zone. Caltrans urges motorists to use caution and follow all instructions from flagging officers for safe passage. CHP will be on site to assist with traffic safety. Speeds will be reduced by 10 mph.

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

Riverside County increases homeless shelter bed capacity and surpasses

5-year Homeless Action Plan goal in the first year

RIVERSIDE COUNTY –

The Riverside County Board of Supervisors approved $7.6 million of American Rescue Plan Act funding to support emergency shelter projects in Riverside County Tuesday, July 11. These dollars will support the development of eight new housing projects located across all five supervisorial districts.

The county’s Homeless Action Plan, a five-year timeline that identifies areas to address homelessness, set a goal to increase the number of shelter beds across the region by 25%. With the development of these projects alone, the county will supersede this goal by creating 241 new emergency shelter beds, which is a 28% increase in emergency shelter beds in Riverside County.

“We need to create as many opportunities as possible to address the needs of families who are experiencing homelessness in our county,” Karen Spiegel, supervisor of the county’s Second District and member

of the Homeless Continuum of Care Board of Governance, said.

“This investment is building our system’s capacity so individuals in crisis are not turned away because of space shortages.”

Emergency shelter beds provide a critical transition from street homelessness into housing. It is also a preventive tool to avoid street homelessness for individuals experiencing homelessness for the first time. During their stay, individuals are provided with essential items and services, including case management and assistance with resolving their homelessness.

Heidi Marshall, deputy director of the county’s Department of Housing and Workforce Solutions, emphasized the need for this investment.

“Housing is a critical tool we need for our unhoused residents here in Riverside County,” Marshall said. “Each of these projects will expand our existing infrastructure and support individuals who are struggling

with a housing crisis.”

For more information about the projects or to learn more about the

Candidate filing opens for Nov. 7 general election

RIVERSIDE COUNTY –

Anyone interested in running for offices on the Tuesday, Nov. 7, general election ballot may take out candidate filing papers beginning Monday, July 17. Papers must be filed by 5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 11. If an incumbent fails to file, the deadline for that office will be extended to 5 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 16, for everyone except the incumbent.

The following special districts have open seats: De Luz Community Services District, Cabazon Water District, Chiriaco Summit Water District and Pinyon Pines County Water District.

The Registrar of Voters’ staff is available to help prospective candidates complete the necessary paperwork and to answer questions. Candidates unsure about the local district offices for

which they are eligible, based on residency, should contact the Registrar of Voters office for help. Candidates will receive informational handbooks at the time they obtain their papers. For more information about this election, contact the Registrar of Voters office at 951-486-7200 or 800-773-8683.

Submitted by Riverside County Registrar of Voters.

Passenger rail service through San Clemente resumes

City News Service

Special to the Valley News

Passenger rail service through San Clemente, which has been halted since early June due to debris and dirt falling on the tracks from an unstable hillside above, resumed Monday, July 17.

Metrolink and Amtrak Pacific Surfliner trains will again be able to travel through the area thanks to emergency construction of a temporary barrier wall protecting

the tracks from debris, transit officials said.

The board of the Orange County Transportation Authority, which owns the tracks, voted June 12 to declare an emergency to expedite construction of the barrier.

San Clemente officials have been working for months to stabilize the hillside above the track near Casa Romantica Culture Center and Gardens, which have also been affected by the sliding hill. The first mudslide near Casa

Romantica happened on April 27. Rail service was shut down, but resumed again on May 27. But another mudslide on June 5 compelled another closure.

The temporary barrier wall is 250 feet long and 12 feet high, with pilings dug 32 feet into the ground, according to transit officials. Officials noted that the reopening will occur as summer travel season heats up, and days ahead of the Comic-Con Convention in San Diego.

coordination of homeless services in Riverside County, contact Tanya Torno at ttorno@rivco.org

or at 951-955-7728.

Submitted by Riverside County.

RIVERSIDE – The Riverside County Nonprofit Roundtable is accepting applications for the $14.5 million Riverside County Nonprofit Assistance Fund. Grants are available for local nonprofits to support direct funding, programs and technical assistance. These grants aim to support and empower nonprofit organizations across Riverside County, enabling them to continue their valuable work in serving the community.

Grants will be distributed equally amongst the five supervisorial districts within Riverside County. Preference will be given to nonprofit organizations with operating budgets under $1 million, recognizing the unique challenges faced by smaller organizations and their importance within the local nonprofit sector.

Nonprofits address critical needs and improve the quality of life for individuals and communities, according to the county. These grants will provide resources to support programmatic initiatives, direct assistance and technical guidance to enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of nonprofit organizations. To access additional

information about the fund and to apply for funding, interested parties should visit the nonprofit roundtable website at https:// rivcohws.org/riverside-countynonprofit . Comprehensive details about eligibility criteria, application requirements and timelines are available on the website. The application process is user-friendly and designed to ensure a transparent and streamlined experience for all applicants.

“We are thrilled to launch the Riverside County Nonprofit Assistance Fund and offer this significant financial support to our local nonprofit community,” Supervisor Karen Spiegel of Riverside County’s Second District said. “These grants will enable nonprofits to expand their impact, enhance their capabilities, and continue their outstanding work in serving the diverse needs of our county residents.”

The deadline for submitting applications is Thursday, Aug. 10, at 6 p.m. Nonprofit organizations can apply to access funding that can make a transformative difference in their ability to create positive change within Riverside County.

Submitted by Riverside County.

Riverside County Nonprofit Roundtable announces availability of $14.5M in grants

Anza blaze doused by AEC employees and neighbors

The quick action of friends, neighbors and Anza Electric Cooperative employees averted

Bee boxes were damaged during a quick moving fire that ignited in Anza Thursday, July 14. Anza

Outlook/Hope Adams photos spots at a moment’s notice.

disaster as a sudden blaze threatened Hope Adams’ ranch Thursday, July 14. The fire occurred on the ranch property, located at Mitchell Road and Regal Blue Trail in Anza.

“Siergo, who is a cousin of AEC employee Yuri Gudino, was headed home on his motorcycle and saw the fire,” said Adams. “He ran to the nearest hoses and hooked them up together and called Yuri,

who called me. I was in town here, so I flew back to the house.”

Within minutes, Anza Electric Cooperative crews arrived on scene with their truck specially designed and rigged to fight hot

“They were amazing,” said Adams. “Don and Sandy showed up, then Brian and Donald, and

welcomed to the Anza Valley Community Library’s Summer Reading Program activities Saturday, July 8. The community law enforcement officers read to children, listened to the children

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

Greg Bruce creates a fire break with his tractor during a quick moving fire that ignited in Anza Thursday, July 14.

Valley

Diane Sieker Staff Writer Riverside County Sheriff’s Sergeant Jeremy Parsons and CSO Jeff Funkhouser were

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 “HamiltonMuseum-and-Ranch-Foundation.”

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 951-751-1462 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 951-7634226.

Bereaved Parents of the USA

– The Aguanga-Anza Chapter of BPUSA will hold its meetings at 6 p.m. on the first and third Wednesday of each month at 49109 Lakeshore Blvd. in Aguanga. For more information, contact chapter leader Linda Hardee at 951-5512826.

Free Mobile Health Clinic

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

Medication Assistance and Treatment for Opioid

Dependence – Get treatment for heroin addiction. Transportation to the clinic is provided. For more information, contact Borrego Health’s Anza Community Health Center, 58581 Route 371, 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 951-763-0856.

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 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

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 951403-4940. 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.

Living Free Animal Sanctuary cat of the week: Meet Phoenix

Anza Valley Outlook/Courtesy photos

Phoenix is a 6-year-old black and white spotted tabby and is such a doll! He loves attention from any and all visitors and will gladly let you know with his purr. He is good with other cats and can often be found exploring or playing with the others. When he’s not active, Phoenix enjoys cuddling up in a comfy spot for a long cat nap. Phoenix is good with dogs and most children. He’s the purrfect

companion. Schedule an appointment to meet Phoenix today.

All available cats are spayed or neutered, microchipped and up to date on vaccinations. The two main requirements for adopting a cat are the cat must be indoors only and declawing is not allowed.

Living Free is a nonprofit animal sanctuary whose primary mission is to rescue dogs and cats whose time

is up at public shelters. Living Free Animal Sanctuary is located on 155 acres in the San Jacinto Mountains near Idyllwild. A diamond in the rough, the property is home to a kennel-in-the-round, Give Life Park, catteries and protected openair “catios,” breathtaking scenery and wide open fields for the wild mustangs and rescued burros to run free. Open by appointment.

For dog adoptions, call 951321-9982, for cat adoptions, call 951-491-1898, and for all other inquiries, call 951- 659-4687.

To book a tour, visit www.livingfree.org/visit-us . Living Free is located at 54250 Keen Camp Road in Mountain Center.

Submitted by Living Free Animal Sanctuary

California Department of Fish and Wildlife reports system security breach

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife reported a recent cybersecurity incident that involved recreational fishing license data.

In an email sent out to fishing license recipients Friday, July 7, the CDFW stated that the department was made aware of a cybersecurity breach within the network of a third-party vendor who uses fishing license information to conduct the Automated License Directory Online Survey necessary to produce recreational ocean fishing catch and effort estimates. The breach was detected Thursday, March 30.

“I am writing to inform you of a recent cybersecurity incident that involved recreational fishing license data. This notice provides information about the incident, what information may have been exposed, and what you can do to protect yourself,” wrote Craig Shuman, CDFW Marine Regional Manager.

According to Shuman, the following fishing license information may have been included within the documents saved on the compromised network:

the license, such as license type and sales date.

“Upon notification of the incident,” Shuman explained, “CDFW ceased sharing any additional license data with the vendor. CDFW is considering a suite of options to better protect the license data from future incidents. We are also taking the additional step, out of an abundance of caution, to alert you to the fact that your personal information may have been viewed by an unauthorized person so that you can determine what further actions you would like to take to prevent any potential personal harm.”

Anglers that have concerns about any potential harm may consult the resources below; these websites have helpful information to protect users from potential identity theft, including how to receive a free copy of your credit report either through the Fair Credit Reporting Act or as a result of placing a fraud alert on your credit files:

• California Office of Attorney General

• Social Security Office

• Free Credit Report

“If you suspect you may be a victim of identity theft, you should place a fraud alert on your credit file,” advised Shuman. “You can also place a security freeze on your account to help prevent unauthorized access to your credit reports.”

they soaked it down good. It was just so coincidental that it was the guys from the Co-op that showed up, and a cousin of my next-door neighbor, who works at the Coop, and this all happens two days before the big annual meeting of the Anza Electric Cooperative on one of the directors’ properties.”

Firefighters also rushed to the ranch to take part in the battle and the fire was out in record time. The cause of the blaze is still under investigation.

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

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife reports a system security breach involving recreational fishing license data. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo Fraud alerts and security freezes must be initiated at each of the three credit bureaus: Equifax (800) 525-6285 www. equifax.com Experian (888) 397-3742 www.experian.com

• TransUnion (800) 680-7289 www.transunion.com

When you receive your credit reports, carefully look them over for the following: Accounts you did not open; Inquiries from creditors that you

did not initiate; Personal information, such as your home address and Social Security number, that is not accurate. If you see anything you do not understand, call the credit reporting agency at the telephone number on the report. If you do find suspicious activity on your credit reports, call your local police or sheriff’s office and file a report of identity theft. Get a copy of the police report as you may need to give copies to

creditors to clear up any issues.

“We offer our sincerest apology that this unfortunate incident occurred,” said Shuman. “Please be assured that protecting and safeguarding your personal information is one of our highest priorities.”

Please send any questions or concerns regarding this matter to ALDOS.Help@wildlife.ca.gov

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

FIRE from page D-1

[Right] Fire trucks arrive quickly during a quick moving fire that ignited in Anza Thursday, July 14. Anza Valley Outlook/Hope Adams photos

Firefighters douse a tree that burns in a quick moving fire that ignited in Anza Thursday, July 14.

AEC crew members spray water on a hot spot with their specialized fire fighting truck equipped for just such emergencies during a quick moving fire that ignited in Anza Thursday, July 14.

READING from page D-1

“The day brought two very special visitors to the Anza Valley Community Library,” said librarian Kay Mackay. “The sheriffs stopped by to spend time with the children participating in the Summer Reading Program. This year’s theme is Find Your Voice and the July 8 program was about the importance of being a good friend.”

The officers talked about their friendship both on and off duty, and what it was like doing their job. They took turns reading books chosen by the children and invited a child to share a book as well. Afterwards they shared coloring books, bracelets, stickers and whistles.

“A special treat of donuts were included,” said Mackay. “We are so grateful to have such wonderful friends and to know they serve our community and keep us safe.”

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

SIGN from page D-1

using a bucket truck to reach the location.

“Thank you Anza Electric Co-op for the rapid reply for the installation, and to Debbi Vesey for the excellent layout and fabrication. We are so proud of our little radio station,” said KOYT director Annika Knöppel. The mission of the Anza Community Broadcasting KOYT 97.1 LPFM radio is to provide

Library System and is located at 57430 Mitchell Road in Anza. The library’s hours are Thursday and Friday from 4 to 7 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and

an inclusive public broadcasting forum to educate, inform, and entertain the local community and the general public.

For more information about the radio station, call (951)763-5698, email info@koyt971.org , visit them at https://www.facebook. com/koyt97.1 or https://koyt971. org/. Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia. com

Sunday 12 to 4 p.m.. Staff may be reached by calling (951)763-4216.

To learn more about the Anza Valley Community Library, visit

https://www.facebook.com/ AnzaLibrary. Don’t have a library card? Go to www.rivlib.net to sign up online for free.

Diane

can

reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia. com

[Right] The shiny new sign is a welcome addition to the signage for the Country Corner center along State Hwy. 371 in Anza. Anza Valley Outlook/Annika Knöppel photo

Sieker

be

Riverside County Sheriff Sergeant Jeremy Parsons shows the kids his Interceptor and explains some of the gadgets inside at the Summer Reading Program activities at the Anza Community Library Saturday, July 8. Anza Valley Outlook/Courtesy photo

Sometimes you just have to clutch your pearls and push forward

parents. It’s very graphic and the “f” word is used over 100 times. This is just one example.

The Valley News or the Village News doesn’t typically publish foul language. It’s usually not necessary.

When we are covering school curriculum, that’s the point. If it’s too graphic to put in a newspaper that mostly adults read, how appropriate is it for school children?

It’s an important discussion as our culture changes. It’s a local decision. All the grown ups in the room need to be an example to the children and carefully consider the options without rhetoric, name calling, yelling, or screaming.

Supervisor Gutierrez announces a comeback for the San Jacinto Animal Shelter

adoption, spaying and neutering services, and public education on animal care. In fact, many presidents have had to travel to our Coachella or Jurupa animal campuses to find their pets.

As we prepare to open the doors once again, we anticipate a significant positive impact on our local community and the overall well-being of our animal population. The official reopening dates have not been announced, but there will be a soft reopening in September, followed by a grand reopening ceremony in October. The public is welcome to attend.

In the Valley News this week we have a screenshot of a play that a parent has objected to having assigned to her daughter at TVUSD. It’s part of a larger discussion that parents, board members, teachers, and now Sacramento is having about what is appropriate and helpful in children’s education. This play very openly describes a man having sex with what appears to be a minor or a young guy who still lives with his

So, keep pressing forward to do the hard work of facing people who may not like you, call you names, accuse you of being horrible, racist, homophobic, nazi’s, right wing, left wing, etc. Big deal. It’s just bullying and name calling. It seems to me that people resort to name calling when they can’t have an articulate conversation. It makes people angry when they feel trapped, fearful or powerless. That’s why the First Amendment is so important. Open discussion empowers both sides if everyone is discussing intelligently. Send letters to the Valley News editor. Clutch your pearls and make your voice heard.

How to stand for God

How did he stand for God when his family was most likely killed, and he was forced to be a eunuch before entering the king’s service?

How did he keep standing for God even when it was illegal and he would face the lion’s den?

Daniel wasn’t afraid of political opposition, and you shouldn’t be either.

Daniel’s contemporaries weren’t happy that he wouldn’t play their political game. He wouldn’t let them skim from the top, and he wasn’t inclusive enough.

Zachary Elliott

Special to the Valley News

The biblical account of Daniel in the lion’s den has been read, told and retold for thousands of years. It’s a real-life historical account of a man, Daniel, who was taken captive by a foreign power, the Babylonians.

How did he do it? How did he keep standing for God, even when his life was turned upside down?

Joe Naiman

Writer

The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California has added replacing the Robert A. Skinner Water Treatment Plant chemical storage tanks and upgrading the Auld Valley Control Structure to MWD’s two-year Capital Investment Plan.

The MWD board vote June 13 amends the Fiscal Years 202223 and 2023-24 CIP to add the Skinner chemical storage tanks replacement, upgrades to the Auld Valley Control Structure and the Red Mountain Control Structure in Fallbrook, and column panel replacement at the Jensen Administration Building in Granada Hills. The board action also awarded a construction contract for the Jensen Administration Building panels while the addition to the CIP will allow design activities for the Skinner storage tanks and the control structure upgrades.

The Robert A. Skinner Water Treatment Plant treats both Colorado River Aqueduct and State Water Project supply and delivers that treated water to the Eastern Municipal Water District, the Western Municipal Water District, and the San Diego County Water Authority. When the plant began service in 1976 its treatment capacity was 150 million gallons per day (mgd), and subsequent expansion of the plant now allows for a capacity of 350 mgd.

The Skinner treatment plant uses two cross-linked high-

To try and eliminate their political problem, they persuaded King Darius to enact an irrevocable law saying Daniel couldn’t worship God for 30 days. Instead, he had to worship the king. But Daniel was having none of it.

The Bible said, “When Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done

As your new County Supervisor, I’m excited to share that the San Jacinto Valley Animal Campus, a critical part of our community, is slated to reopen in Fall 2023. In listening to your requests and in my dedication to animal welfare and community services, I secured a $3.4 million allocation for our District to reopen the facility.

The reopening of this facility is very important to me and our community. For many years, residents of San Jacinto, Hemet, Nuevo, and the Pass area have been unable to access Riverside County’s affordable pet

FAITH

before,” in Daniel 6:10.

The political games didn’t change his love for God.

Daniel did everything for the glory of God, and you should too.

The Bible said, “Daniel so distinguished himself among the administrators and the satraps by his exceptional qualities that the king planned to set him over the whole kingdom,” in Daniel 6:3.

Even while serving an ungodly king, Daniel’s godliness set him apart and elevated him above the rest. Could the same be said about you?

God said, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving,” in Colossians 3:23-24.

The only way Daniel could deal with working as an enslaved person was to give his service to God and not man. He needed to work for a higher purpose in the face of his opposition. Can that be

I believe the revival of the San Jacinto Valley Animal Campus underscores the strength of our community’s commitment to animal welfare and exemplifies what we can achieve when we work together. The reopening of this beloved facility will undoubtedly mark a new chapter in our collective effort to ensure every animal in our county has the opportunity to lead a safe and cared-for life.

Sincerely, Yxstian Gutierrez County Supervisor, 5th District

said of you? Are you doing what you do for God or man?

Daniel wasn’t afraid to take his faith public, and neither should you.

He wasn’t afraid, ashamed or embarrassed to be seen praying from his window. His faith was public even when he was told to keep it quiet.

Jesus promised that when you put your faith in him, you would receive the power of the Holy Spirit to be a witness for him, “telling people about me everywhere,” in Acts 1:8. That’s taking your faith public.

Is your faith public?

Daniel created a precedence of prayer before the problem, and you should too.

Prayer shouldn’t only be done during problems. It should also be done during the plenty. Daniel knew this principle.

When his faith was tested, he was already protected by prayer. And he knew where to go for prayer during the problem because he had already been there. It wasn’t

a shock to his system.

You need to create a precedence of prayer before the problem. It will help you stand for God in the face of opposition.

Daniel trusted God to shut the mouth of his lions, and you should too.

Because Daniel refused to bow to anyone but God, he was thrown into the lion’s den. But God shut the mouth of the lions.

What lion is trying to consume your life and your faith? God has the power to shut its mouth. Trust him to stand for you when you stand for him.

And you, just like Daniel, can say, “My God sent his angel, and he shut the mouths of the lions. They have not hurt me, because I was found innocent in his sight,” in Daniel 6:22.

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.

density polyethylene (HDPE) tanks for the storage of sodium hypochlorite, which serves as initial backup disinfection to ozone treatment and ensures that the primary disinfection requirements are continuously met during unexpected events such as power outages. The tanks are ten feet in diameter and 12 feet tall with a storage capacity of 6,250 gallons apiece. The tanks have a recommended service life of 15 years and have been in service since 2007.

Inspections conducted after the April 2022 approval of the initial 2022-23 and 2023 - 24 CIP discovered leakage from a growing crack in one of the two tanks. The tank’s leak was repaired on a temporary basis, but MWD staff recommended that both tanks be replaced at the earliest possible time.

The two existing sodium hypochlorite tanks will be replaced with tanks of the same size constructed of extrusion-molded linear HDPE, which provides improved structural properties.

The design and procurement phase activities will include the preparation of drawings and specifications for procurement and installation of two sodium hypochlorite storage tanks. The tank procurement contract is expected to have a low enough value to be awarded under the MWD general manager’s authority. The installation of the tanks and all other construction work will be performed by MWD staff.

The initial change to the capital budget adds $600,000 for the Skinner treatment plant tank replacement. That amount covers $230,000 for tank and instrumentation procurement, $98,000 for design activities, $90,000 for environmental support and project management, $60,000 for fabrication inspection, $57,000 for field investigations, and $65,000 for contingencies. The total estimated cost including construction is in the range from $1.35 million to $1.5 million. Procurement of the hew sodium hypochlorite tanks is expected to occur by November 2024.

Six MWD pipelines carry water along the San Diego Aqueduct from the Skinner treatment plant. Pipelines 1, 2, and 4 convey treated water while Pipelines 3, 5, and 6 deliver untreated supply. (Pipeline 6 currently carries untreated water for seven miles from Lake Skinner to Anza Road and De Portola Road; the southern portion which would serve San Diego County is not expected to be needed in the near future so that part of the project has been deferred.) Flows to Pipeline 3 are regulated at the Auld Valley Control Structure and flows to Pipeline 5 are regulated at the Red Mountain Control Structure. Each control structure includes two 66-inch diameter pipes each fitted with two 42-inch diameter throttling sleeve valves. The valves are used to regulate flows within the pipelines. The Auld Valley Control Structure was built in 1975 and the Red Mountain Control Structure was

constructed in 1981.

Inspections of the control structures conducted after the initial CIP was approved found that the sleeve valves have extensive wear and tear and require rehabilitation. One of the valves on the Red Mountain Control Structure was discovered to be structurally compromised. MWD staff attempted to repair that valve, but the deterioration was beyond repair. Isolation bulkheads were utilized in the interim to resume operation of the Red Mountain Control Structure at reduced flows. The other sleeve valve at the Red Mountain Control Structure was refurbished under the Minor Capital Program in 2022.

The original design of the control structures did not include isolation valves so Pipelines 3 and 5 cannot be operated without the sleeve valves in service. A complete shutdown of the pipelines is required if one of the sleeve valves must be removed for maintenance. MWD staff recommended installation of eight new butterfly valves upstream and downstream of the sleeve valves at the Auld Valley and Red Mountain control structures to allow for isolation to allow the pipelines to remain in service during maintenance of the sleeve valves and recommended that work to rehabilitate the remaining three sleeve valves begin at the earliest possible time. The planned work will include replacing a sleeve valve at the Red Mountain Control Structure, refurbishing or replacing two sleeve valves on the

Auld Valley Control Structure, and installing eight 42-inch diameter isolation butterfly valves (four at each control structure).

The planned design activities for the control structure upgrades include preparation of procurement documents for one sleeve valve for the Red Mountain Control Structure, performing alternative evaluations for refurbishing or replacing sleeve valves for the Auld Valley Control Structure, field investigations, topographic survey and mapping, geotechnical analysis, and site layouts for the installation of the isolation valves at both control structures.

The change to the 2023-24 budget adds $550,000 for the control structure upgrades which will cover $420,000 for the design activities, $80,000 for project management and project controls, and $50,000 for contingency. The total estimated cost to complete the project, including future procurement and construction, ranges from $13 million to $15 million. MWD staff will return to the board to request a construction contract after the design is complete.

Including the Auld Valley and Red Mountain control structure rehabilitation in the CIP will allow for completion of the project in early 2025. Complete field investigations and sleeve valve alternative analysis of the control structures are expected by May 2024.

Julie Reeder Publisher

MWD

adds Skinner tank replacement, Auld Valley Control Structure upgrade to CIP

Russia and China reportedly begin joint air and sea drills in Sea of Japan

Alexander Pease

Contributor to the Daily Caller

Russia and China are reportedly teaming up and carrying out joint air and sea drills in the Sea of Japan Sunday, according to Reuters.

A Chinese naval fleet reportedly set sail to join Russian Navy vessels as well as Kremlin air assets to carry out exercises in the Sea of Japan as part

of a mutual interest in “safeguarding the security of strategic waterways,” Reuters reported, citing a statement issued by China’s defense ministry. China sent out a total of five warships as well as four ship-borne helicopters to join the Russian military. The codename for the combined operations is North/ Interaction-2023:

This is the sixth time Russian and

Chinese militaries have patrolled the area since 2019, according to The Moscow Times.

The weekend exercises mark the first time that both Russian air and sea military branches have engaged with Chinese maritime defense forces bilaterally.

The Chinese and Russian navies have been recently functioning in conjunction with each other

regularly. Earlier this year the United States Coast Guard unexpectedly came across a joint drill carried out by the two militaries less than 100 miles off the coast of Alaska in the waters of the Bering Sea.

In February 2022, the Russian and Chinese governments agreed to a strategic partnership geared toward “countering the influence of the United States,” Reuters noted.

“Friendship between the two States has no limits, there are no ‘forbidden’ areas of cooperation,” the two countries stated in a joint press release, according to a separate Reuters report. Beijing and Moscow have elevated their partnership since the war in Ukraine kicked off, describing it as having “no limits.”

Biden escalates US military response to Ukraine War by authorizing activation of 3,000 reserve troops

Diana Glebova

The Daily Caller

President Joe Biden on Thursday, July 13, granted the U.S. military permission to activate upwards of 3,000 reserve troops to augment its response to the war in Ukraine.

Biden authorized the secretary of defense and the secretary of homeland security to activate “any units, and any individual members not assigned to a unit organized to serve as a unit of the Selected Reserve, or any member

in the Individual Ready Reserve mobilization category.”

The unit groups are “not to exceed 3,000 total members at any one time, of whom not more than 450 may be members of the Individual Ready Reserve,” the statement added. It remains unclear whether or not

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin intends to activate the reserve troops.

“These are not additional forces; these are forces that will augment what we already have there. So as an example, over time, where we may have had someone from

an active-component organization doing something, that job now under these authorities may be something that a reserve component unit may be able to do,” Lt. Gen. Douglas A. Sims II said in a statement.

National security adviser Jake Sullivan on Wednesday touted America’s involvement in aiding Ukraine in its war against Russia, saying the world should show “gratitude” for the billions the U.S. government has provided.

“The United States of America has stepped up to provide an enormous

amount of capacity to help ensure that Ukraine’s brave soldiers have the ammunition, the air defense, the infantry fighting vehicles, the mine-clearing equipment and so much else to be able to effectively defend against Russia’s onslaught and to take territory back,” Sullivan said. “I think the American people do deserve a degree of gratitude — from us, from the United States, from our government — deserve gratitude for their willingness to step up, and from the rest of the world, as well.”

Biden spoke to NATO leaders in Lithuania on Thursday and assured them the U.S. would help Ukraine for as long as it takes. He said Ukraine is not yet ready to join NATO due to the country being at war with Russia.

“I think we have to lay out a rational path for Ukraine to be able to qualify to be able to get into NATO,” Biden said on CNN.

The president has also said there is “no possibility” Russian President Vladimir Putin can win the war in Ukraine.

Supreme Court could end up deciding the fate of child sex change bans

Katelynn Richardson

Contributor to the Daily Caller

The Sixth Circuit’s decision to allow Tennessee’s ban on sex change procedures for minors to take effect last week signals the issue could soon be heading to the Supreme Court. If another circuit court comes to a different conclusion than the Sixth Circuit in one of the many pending lawsuits against such bans, “it would go up to the Supreme Court on a petition for emergency appeal,” Sarah Parshall Perry, senior legal fellow at Heritage’s Edwin Meese III Center for Legal and Judicial Studies, told the Daily Caller News Foundation.

The American Civil Liberties Union has filed lawsuits over child sex change bans in multiple states, including Texas, Alabama, Idaho, Arkansas, Indiana, Oklahoma, Nebraska and Kentucky. A federal appeals court’s

decision to allow Tennessee’s child sex change ban to take effect could mean the Supreme Court will soon be asked to weigh in on the issue.

After midnight on July 8th, the Sixth Circuit paused a lower court’s injunction on Tennessee’s ban on providing children with sex change surgeries, puberty blockers, cross sex hormones and “any drug or device” intended for the same purposes. With lawsuits challenging similar bans popping up throughout the country and multiple cases now being appealed in the circuit courts, Sarah Parshall Perry, senior legal fellow at Heritage’s Edwin Meese III Center for Legal and Judicial Studies, told the Daily Caller News Foundation “there’s no question” the issue will end up before the Supreme Court.

“These are emergency motions where these judges are having to determine whether a state’s interest in protecting the welfare of children outweighs a parents’ interest in getting experimental

medical treatment,” Perry explained.

If another circuit court determines, contrary to what the Sixth Circuit just found, that a parent has a right to “experimental medical care” for their children, Perry said “it would go up to the Supreme Court on a petition for emergency appeal.”

The Supreme Court, she noted, has “never held that there is an unfettered right to get experimental medical treatment for one’s children.”

Gene Hamilton, general counsel and vice president at America First Legal (AFL), told the DCNF AFL is “optimistic that other courts will follow the Sixth Circuit’s lead in rejecting attempts by the radical left to accomplish through the courts what they cannot achieve legislatively.”

“The [Sixth Circuit] Court rightly held that the plaintiffs were not likely to prevail on their due process and equal protection

claims, which were novel and rooted in political activism rather than the Constitution,” Hamilton said. “The Supreme Court has not extended either area of law to cover procedures and treatments that amount to genital mutilation or chemical castration of children, and we suspect that it will not do so absent an unprecedented courtpacking by the Biden regime.”

Obama-appointed Eastern District of Arkansas Judge Jay Moody struck down Arkansas’ law in June. Northern District of Florida Judge Robert L. Hinkle, a Clinton-appointee, also granted a preliminary injunction in June preventing Florida’s ban from being enforced against the plaintiffs who sued, asserting in his opinion that “gender identity is real.”

The case against Florida’s law will soon be appealed in the 11th Circuit, Perry told the DCNF. Plaintiffs in the lawsuits often argue “gender-affirming care” is

“medically necessary” to prevent mental health problems like anxiety, depression, self-harm and suicide.

Contrary to the opinions issued by the Florida and Tennessee trial courts, Perry said there is “no data to support the fact that this is life saving care.”

“In fact, suicidal idealation likely to remain after these particular hormone or surgical interventions,” Perry told the DCNF. “That is, behind all of this, one of the great tragedies in this push towards gender-altering treatments that we’re seeing in these federal trial courts across the country.”

All content created by the Daily Caller News Foundation, an independent and nonpartisan newswire service, is available without charge to any legitimate news publisher that can provide a large audience.

CDC endorses ‘chestfeeding’ for biological males, triggering criticism from medical experts

Brenda Baletti, Ph.D.

Children’s Health Defense

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) made headlines this week after the Daily Mail reported the agency endorsed “chestfeeding” by publishing guidance for trans-identified biological males on how to induce lactation.

According to the CDC’s breastfeeding guidelines, one option for “transgender parents who have had breast surgery” and want to “breastfeed or chestfeed their infants” is to induce lactation with the use of medication.

Inducing lactation requires taking a combination of drugs, including hormonal contraceptive drugs to provide estrogen and progesterone, and an androgen blocker to reproduce the “hormonal milieu” of pregnancy.

The protocol can also include a heart medication, an antipsychotic, a sedative and the off-label use of an anti-nausea drug to stimulate lactation called domperidone, which is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in the U.S.

But experts, such as retired pediatrician Dr. Paul Thomas, told The Defender they had grave concerns about “chestfeeding” as a way for trans-identified biological males to feed babies.

Thomas said the question of what is best for the baby should be the primary, if not only, concern. “When we become parents to an infant, we set aside our own needs and focus on what is best for our baby,” Thomas said.

“When it comes to nutrition, breast milk is best,” he added, but “if making breast milk requires pharmaceutical medications with known bad side effects, the ‘milk’ produced is not ‘safe’ breast milk. It contains a concoction of chemicals

that are likely harmful.”

Midwife and nurse practitioner Mary Lou Singleton told The Defender:

“The needs and best interests of the child are entirely missing from the discussion of biological males who identify as females inducing lactation. When an infant is being fed milk produced by a human other than the woman who grew and birthed her, a breach in the maternal bond has occurred.

“In cases of tragedy or maternal illness, donor milk may serve as the next best thing to being nursed by one’s mother, but this should be viewed as harm reduction rather than the ideal way to feed an infant.”

Journalist Michael Shellenberger said the CDC’s disregard for the question of infant health in its recommendations shows how the agency has been politicized.

“The CDC’s ‘chestfeeding’ advice clearly has nothing to do with the well-being of infants. Its endorsement of an off-label hormone cocktail demonstrates, once again, that the CDC is a captured institution that issues guidance based on political interests rather than scientific evidence or health,” he wrote.

Doctors critical of the CDC’s guidelines told the Daily Mail they thought the CDC has a “responsibility” to disclose the lack of research and potential risks, adding that the agency is “blurring the lines between politics and science.”

Medical establishment conducting medical experiment on infants

Globally, medical experts consistently recommend that mothers breastfeed their babies exclusively for the first six months of life, citing a range of health benefits for the infant.

“For nearly all of human history and for the entire mammalian kingdom, breastfeeding is the continuation of

the mother-baby relationship that starts with pregnancy,” Singleton said. She said the milk produced for an infant “by the body of the woman who gestated and birthed that infant (what used to unequivocally be called the infant’s mother) is the perfect food for the child.”

“Science cannot replicate the evolutionary design that enables women’s bodies to respond to minute biochemical changes in the newborn and dynamically alter the quantity and composition of breast milk in response to the infant’s everchanging needs,” Singleton said.

There are very few studies on, or even instances of, induced lactation in transgender women.

The Daily Mail indicated trans women seeking to lactate can take a combination of medicines called the Newman-Goldfarb protocol, which was initially developed for biological women who had not given birth but wanted to breastfeed a child.

But there is little evidence related to the success or safety of the protocol, even among women.

The Academy for Breastfeeding Medicine (ABM) clinical protocol suggested by the CDC cited only one study of one biological male where lactation was induced. A second case was also reported in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism in 2021.

“A biological male cannot lactate without major medical intervention,” Singleton said. Inducing lactation with medications designed to override male physiology will produce ‘milk’ containing a cocktail of endocrine-disrupting drugs.” She said we have no idea how feeding this substance to infants may harm them, adding:

“By centering the desires of biological male adults wanting to have an exclusively female experience, the medical establishment is conducting

a medical experiment on infants.

“The infants involved do not have health conditions warranting their inclusion in a medical trial.”

Thomas said that, for example, “Domperidone being suggested to stimulate milk production has known side effects that should exclude it from consideration.”

The FDA warns against the use of domperidone — an antinausea drug that also happens to increase prolactin, the hormone that encourages milk production. The drug is not approved anywhere for increasing milk production and it is not approved at all in the U.S. because of potential health risks.

It has been known to cause cardiac arrhythmias, cardiac arrest and sudden death in adults.

In countries where domperidone is approved for other uses, the labeling explicitly states that “the drug is excreted in breast milk that could expose a breastfeeding infant to unknown risks.”

The FDA warns that because of the possibility of serious adverse effects, it recommends against the use of domperidone to increase milk production in breastfeeding women.

Both the ABM clinical protocol suggested by the CDC and the National Library of Medicine’s discussion of domperidone indicate that very few studies have been done on the effects of domperidone in breast milk.

Thomas said the same concern about potential side effects in infants applies to all of the other drugs recommended to stimulate lactation in biological males, adding: “This is true for most anti-nausea medications, heart medications, antipsychotics, and sedatives. Just because a medication has the side effect of increasing lactation (milk production), it is not a good idea to expose babies to those medications. They all have a huge side effect

profile other than the one that increases milk production.”

For example, spironolactone, used in one protocol, is typically used to treat liver and kidney disease and high blood pressure, and has caused tumors in laboratory animals.

Pantoprazole, also included in the same protocol, is a drug for gastroesophageal reflux disease that has a wide range of side effects, with particular concerns for pregnant or lactating women.

Those drugs are recommended in addition to contraceptive hormones and hormones such as Estrace, which is typically used to treat menopause and carries a wide range of potential side effects, ranging from mood disorders to problems with reproductive organs to blood clots.

In addition to the CDC, the U.K.’s National Health Service, Healthline and other websites indicate that transgender men can induce lactation with medication, without mentioning challenges or the potential side effects for the parent or child.

Given the potential risks to the infant, Thomas recommended different alternatives for nonlactating parents:

“Parents who cannot produce enough breast milk using natural supportive means should consider the nursing supplementers or a bottle, and then get all the skin time you both need [to bond with the baby] outside of the feeding window.”

He added, “Please, always put the baby’s best interests first.”

Brenda Baletti Ph.D. is a reporter for The Defender. She wrote and taught about capitalism and politics for 10 years in the writing program at Duke University. She holds a Ph.D. in human geography from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a master’s from the University of Texas at Austin.