Valley News - August 23, 2024 by Village News, Inc.

Serial killer linked to 1986 murder of Lake Elsinore teen

Julie Reeder

Publisher

LAKE ELSINORE - On Tuesday, Aug. 13, authorities identified William Lester Suff, a death row inmate, as the perpetrator in the 1986 slaying of 19-year-old Cathy Ann Small from Lake Elsinore, nearly four decades after her body was discovered in South Pasadena.

Spark creativity and boost your confidence this fall with JDS Creative Academy

Karlee Skipper Special to Valley News

Old-time bucket brigade helps put out raging Wildomar field fire

some

and

The local heroes in this unusual firefighting incident were presented certificates of recognition by Wildomar Mayor Bridgette Moore and the city council for the four individuals quickly acting together to put out a field fire that broke out above Monte Vista Street on that day.

Rachel Gibbs and Courtney Marie Parish were having a pizza at Papa G’s Pizza on Monte Vista when they saw one of the city beautification volunteers, Dan Gant, rushing in saying they needed help with putting out the fire.

Valley Restart Shelter seeking help in changing lives

Diane A. Rhodes

Special to Valley News

Valley Restart Shelter in Hemet is making great strides in helping homeless families get back on their feet and keep their children in school. Executive Director Javier H. Lopez credits donors and partners throughout the city and county, as well as the staff and volunteers who work at the center.

The nonprofit is currently looking for supporters to “Adopt a room, Change a Life” to help them continue their work for local families. Aside from the recent construction of its pallet houses, VRS buildings were constructed in the 1940s and 1950s to house farm workers and later were used by the local YMCA branch. Needless to say, the rooms have had their share of wear and tear throughout the years and are in much need of some TLC, including new flooring, paint, furniture and beds. Lopez is hoping to see generous supporters adopt a

room and renovate it to provide a comfortable experience to the homeless families who live at the shelter as they are assisted in locating permanent housing.

Those who adopt a room will be recognized with a name plaque outside the room they adopted, a brick with their name, and a story on the VRS website, in their newsletter and on social media.

“We have 12 family rooms and four larger dormitories that we use for single women; all of them need renovation,” Lopez said. “All are in need of new paint and seven also need flooring (tile).”

paint (semi-gloss for easy cleaning), beds, nightstands, lamps, etc. “We are always seeking donations of any kind,” he said. “Many

Rachel Gibbs and Courtney Marie Parish helped two Wildomar beautification volunteers put out a fire on Monte Vista Street with

quick thinking

five-gallon buckets of water.

Valley News/Courtesy photo

One of 12 family rooms at Valley Restart Shelter in Hemet that needs renovations.

LOCAL

Four new 4WD vehicle purchases approved by Wildomar City Council for public service use

Tony Ault Staff Writer

The Wildomar City Council approved the purchase of four new 2023 four-wheel drive Ford pickups and a utility cargo van for public service use for a total of $197,200 from the State of California at its Aug. 14 regular meeting.

Presenting the request was Adam Jantz from the Administrative Services Department who said the vehicles would replace or supplement the aging city service vehicles used by public utility staff and code enforcement officers in the city.

Jantz said the purchase of the vehicles from the state was necessary as its regular national vehicle sales group, Enterprise Fleet Manage-

ment, would only sell a minimum of nine vehicles for any city or county. Wildomar only needed and could afford four this year.

Therefore the purchase of the four vehicles would go to the California State Department of Government Services who had the trucks immediately available for purchase with the council’s approval which resulted in a unanimous 5-0 vote.

Jantz explained in the request, “It was determined that four vehicles are needed as soon as possible. The vehicles needed are an additional Code Enforcement truck, a Building Inspector truck, a Field Supervisor vehicle, and a special events van. One of the current vehicles used by the Building Inspector is a pool vehicle, and once

a 4WD F-150 is purchased, it will return to being a pool vehicle.”

Daniel Torres, Wildomar Community Services Director. announced details of the city’s 2024 Holiday Lighting Contests, which this year will include a Halloween Spooktacular Home Decorating Contest along with the annual Holiday Christmas Home Lighting Contest.

He said the department will be conducting the contests and are open to all Wildomar residents.

Residents will be able to sign up on the City of Wildomar website starting Monday, Sept. 2.

Both home decorating contests will have different decorating categories that residents can choose from to compete for recognition. Staff will create the criteria to

judge these entries. The winners of the Spooktacular Home Decorating Contest will be recognized at the Fall Family Fun Fair. Recognition of the winners for the Holiday Home Decorating Contest will be invited to the December City Council Meeting. Contest winners will receive a yard sign and all contestants will be added to a map sharing the locations of the decorated homes throughout Wildomar.

Torres also explained how the National Clean Up Day event on Sept. 21 will include the Wildomar Community and Parks Foundation nonprofit organization who wants to partner with the City for the event. These partnerships are handled on a case by case basis. The Wildomar Community and Parks

Foundation has successfully conducted similar events within the past year. The permit cost ($150) to the foundation would be waived with the council’s approval. Mayor Bridgette Moore recused herself from the request as she is a member of the Foundation. The council approved the partnership with no fees in a 4-0 vote with one excused from the vote. There were no public hearings scheduled at the meeting and 11 consent items were approved. Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com.

Temecula schools open doors as students return for a promising year

Supervisors approve dispatch agreement with City of Canyon Lake

Joe Naiman

Special to Valley News

The County of Riverside has renewed its agreement with the City of Canyon Lake to provide fire department dispatch and communication service for the city.

A 5-0 Riverside County Board of Supervisors vote July 30 approved the new agreement. The dispatch and communications service agreement is retroactive to July 1 and will expire on June 30, 2027. The City of Canyon Lake originally contracted with the Riverside County Fire Department for fire protection, fire prevention, rescue, and medical emergency services in 1990. The city discontinued its contract with the county for the pe-

SHELTER from page A-1

times, we provide household items to residents when they move out into their own apartment/home. We can also use pillows, covers, sheets, blankets, towels, etc.”

He said volunteer assistance is also welcome. “As families exit, we can use help in preparing the rooms for the next families, removing trash, doing some yard work, paint touch ups, and a host of other things for all skill levels,”

riod from July 2015 through September 2015. A new cooperative agreement for fire services was approved but ended on December 31, 2021. An agreement for dispatch and communication services only began on January 1, 2022, and expired on June 30, 2024.

The city will be charged based on the number of fire stations (Canyon Lake has one station) and

Lopez said.

Although the shelter is currently full, Lopez said a room can be set aside when a donor comes forth. “Being that we are a shortterm placement of 30 to 90 days, families move in and out almost weekly,” he said. With its mission to focus on those individuals that want to help themselves and restart their lives, VRS provides resources and connections that can help them do just that. They believe in offering “a hand up, not a handout” to families and individuals who find themselves unhoused, due to individual circumstances, and provide them with shelter, food and clothing.

To help with back-to-school expenses for the families it serves, VRS also has a school supply list of items that are needed and can be dropped off at the office Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 200 E. Menlo Ave. in Hemet. Along with the usual supplies of pencils, rulers, crayons, markers and notebooks, new T-shirts, shorts, pants and shoes are welcome as well as gift cards to Staples, Target and other local retailers. Lopez can be reached at the VRS office at 951-766-7476 or by cell phone at 760-501-1462 to schedule a tour of the rooms and the facility. For more information, www.valleyrestartshelter.org.

jurisdictional calls. The Fiscal Year 2023-24 contract period had a call volume of 911 calls. The estimated annual reimbursement amount during the new three-year period is $119,536. The final revenue amount is subject to increase or decrease based on fiscal year end reconciliation of support services, and the actual costs will be adjusted on a fourth-quarter invoice which will be sent in August.

The Canyon Lake City Council approved the fire department dispatch and communications services agreement June 12.

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

Students get back-to-school at Ysabel Barnett Elementary School in Temecula for the 2024-25 school year.

Scarlett Gibson, 9, is ready for her first day back-to-school at Ysabel Barnett in Temecula, Aug. 14. Valley News/Shane Gibson photos

California family’s tragic road trip ends in train collision, leaving two dead and two hospitalized

Julie Reeder

Publisher

The Culver family from Menifee suffered an unimaginable tragedy on Sunday, July 14, when their minivan was struck by a northbound train outside Cookeville, Wyoming, near the Utah border, killing Aulai, the mother and 12-year-old daughter Lily. The family of four was en route to Yellowstone National Park for a vacation when they attempted to bypass a temporary road closure by driving on a railroad right-ofway. The vehicle became stuck on the tracks, leading to the fatal collision.

Captain Brian Andrews of the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office reported that the accident occurred around 11:15 a.m. “During the course of this family’s detour, their vehicle was struck by a northmoving train while attempting to cross from the west side of the tracks to the east,” said Andrews.

Emergency responders arrived at the scene to find the two individuals deceased on impact and

father Eric and 15-year-old son Logan critically injured. The father and son required extrication from the vehicle. Both were airlifted to trauma centers in Utah, with the father transported to Salt Lake City and the son to Ogden.

The 15-year-old boy remains in intensive care, recovering from his injuries. The father’s condition has worsened, according to family that has started a GoFundMe for the 15-year-old, and the family is faced with the heart-wrenching decision of whether to continue life-sustaining measures.

The Culver family has been deeply affected by this tragedy. Friends and neighbors from Temecula, Lake Elsinore, Menifee, and Wildomar have expressed their shock and grief. The small town of Cookeville, with a population of just 500, has also been touched by the accident.

“This is a hard one for all of us,” said a family friend. “We’re hopeful and faithful that a miracle occurs for the sake of the family, but more importantly, for this 15-yearold boy who needs his dad.”

A GoFundMe page has been established by the grandmother to support the boy’s long recovery and to assist with the mounting medical expenses. The family is calling for an outpouring of love

Supervisors approve Sunstone CFD

Naiman Special to Valley News

The Riverside County Board of Supervisors has approved a community facilities district for the Sunstone development.

The supervisors voted 5-0 July 30 to approve the results of an election to form the CFD. The assessment district covers a 30.62-acre area northwesterly of Winchester Road, north of Jean Nicholas Road, east of Leon Road, and south of Whisper Heights Parkway.

In June 2021 the Board of Supervisors approved a tentative tract map and plot plan for the property. That action also included a general plan amendment, a specific plan amendment, a rezone, and an en-

vironmental Mitigated Negative Declaration. The tract map created three residential lots which will include 154 single-family detached condominium units, four open space lots, 308 garage parking spaces, 133 private on-street parking spaces, and 3.84 acres of recreation areas.

A community facilities district includes a special tax (sometimes known as Mello-Roos taxes due to the state legislators who authored the option for services on new development to be funded by an annual assessment) to fund the services and/or infrastructure. A Joint Communities Facilities Agreement stipulates the collection and distribution process for the taxes. If the 1% property tax is not sufficient to pay for maintenance, fire protec-

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tion, and other services a CFD may be formed for those services and that CFD would be perpetual.

A CFD may also pay for infrastructure including capacity fees which are charged to developers to cover the new development’s share of existing infrastructure, and that assessment ends when the bonds are paid off. The CFD may also pay for the reimbursement to government agencies for their staff time and other expenses to form the CFD, the cost to issue bonds, and the annual costs to administer the CFD. An assessment must be approved by a majority of property owners, although a developer who owns a property before it is subdivided may cast the sole vote in favor of a CFD which will be binding upon subsequent property

and support for the boy, who is now facing a long road to recovery, both physically and emotionally.

For those wishing to help, donations can be made through the GoFundMe page where many fam-

owners. Although the Mello-Roos taxes can deter some potential homebuyers, the up-front funding of the infrastructure improvements may increase initial house prices and make a Mello-Roos assessment attractive to developers.

ily and friends of the Culvers have already been donating and pouring out messages of support: https://

www.gofundme.com/f/help-theculver-family-with-upcomingexpenses

A 5-0 Board of Supervisors vote June 4 set a July 9 hearing date to form the CSD. That hearing called for the property owner election while authorizing the assessment to fund landscaping, lighting, traffic signals, drainage, and graffiti abatement. The landscaping improvements include turf, ground cover, shrubs, trees, plants, irrigation and drainage, ornamental lighting, masonry walls or other fencing, and park and trail maintenance. The street lighting and traffic signal expenses include operation, maintenance, administration, and energy costs. The drainage activities include administration, inspection, and maintenance of water quality basins, fossil filters, basin forebays, and other infrastructure. The graffiti abatement will be for walls and other permanent structures. An ownership entity called AG EHC II (LEN) CA 2, L.P. cast the sole vote in favor of the assessment. The total Fiscal Year 2024-25 assessment will be $63,756, which is $414 per taxable parcel. The annual increase will be based on the Consumer Price Index but at least 2 percent.

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Rachel and Courtney Marie jumped up to help, running into Papa G’s kitchen and filling up five-gallon buckets of water to assist the other city volunteer, Richard Pearce, who had grabbed a shovel and was trying to stop the raging fire in 103-degree heat. As a result, Richard’s shoe soles were melted in the incident.

The two heroines, with the heavy five-gallon buckets filled with sloshing water, ran up the hill to lend a hand, according to Moore. Returning down the hill the women saw an employee from the nearby Corporate Room run a

hose through the businesses’ fence and the two proceeded to refill the buckets three more times, running back up the hill and pouring water on the flames until the fire was eventually quenched by arriving CalFire firefighters. The ladies ironically were on lunch after attending a Wellness Seminar at the Corporate Room. It was a real old-time effort made by citizens in the City of Wildomar which prides itself on being a historically traditional Western town. Gibbs, Parish, Gant, and Pierce received certificates of recognition and applause during the Aug. 7 Wildomar City Council meeting.

The Culver family. Valley News/Courtesy photo

Joe

Wildomar city beautification volunteers Dan Gant and Richard Pearce were the first to spot the fire and attempt to put it out with a shovel. Valley News/Courtesy photo

Serial killer linked to 1986 murder of Lake Elsinore teen

Julie Reeder Publisher

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department announced during a press conference that DNA evidence connected Suff, known as the Riverside Killer, to the murder. Confronted with the evidence, Suff confessed to killing Small, a young mother of two, in 1986.

“This is a significant development in the quest for justice for a crime that has haunted the community for nearly 40 years,” said Sheriff Robert Luna at a press conference in Los Angeles.

Small’s sister, Diana Larsen, expressed gratitude toward the

Menifee Valley Historical Association to present history program on Holland, Christensen, and Scott families

MENIFEE -- As the city of Menifee nears completion of the Holland Road overpass, Menifee Valley Historical Association invites residents to attend a free history presentation on 3 families, Holland, Christensen and Scott, united by marriage in the 1800s. The program takes place Saturday, Sept. 21 at 9:30 a.m. at the Antelope-Menifee Rural Center, located on Haun Road just north of Garbani Road. The presentation will also be available on Facebook at https:// www.facebook.com/MenifeeHistory, but only for 30 days after the event. For more information, visit https://menifeehistory.com or call 951-708-6842. Submitted by Menifee Valley Historical Association.

investigators. “My sister Cathy was not just a statistic. She was a protective big sister, a loving mother, and a good daughter. Her life was cut short before she could achieve her dreams,” Larsen’s statement read.

Suff is already on death row for the murders of 12 women between 1989 and 1991. Small’s body was discovered strangled and stabbed in the 800 block of Bank Street in South Pasadena, three years before Suff’s known killing spree.

Despite extensive efforts, investigators had few leads until recent DNA tests identified Suff as the perpetrator.

The breakthrough came when cold case investigators revisited the case in 2019 after a separate incident led them to re-examine the evidence. DNA from the crime

scene matched Suff’s, leading to his confession during an interview in 2022.

Suff, who had previously been convicted of murdering his infant daughter in Texas in 1974, was paroled to California in 1984 and was later employed by Riverside County. He was arrested in 1992 during a routine traffic stop, which led to the discovery of evidence linking him to multiple murders. Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger emphasized the importance of this resolution for Small’s family. “Today, we announce that justice will be served for Cathy and her family,” Barger said. “Although nearly four decades have passed, law enforcement never gave up on this case.” Suff remains on death row at Corcoran State Prison.

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Woodturning: Transforming the lives of veterans

Erick Maganda Valley News Intern

Transitioning from military to civilian life can be a difficult process for many veterans. According to PEW Research Center, those who have suffered serious injuries have a 58% chance of experiencing an easy re-entry, down from 77%. To address this issue, Turn Around for Veterans (TAV) aims to provide support in its own unique way.

TAV, a program created by members of the San Diego Woodturners (SDW), believe that woodturning can serve as a form of therapy for injured servicemembers and veterans. Their website notes, “they saw the potential for not just crafting wood but also crafting a renewed sense of purpose and resilience.”

The program operates with the help of volunteers, mostly veterans and their families, and donations. Among other methods, TAV receives donations by selling items made by participants to support scholarships, memberships and woodturning items. Through this, they are able to offer free classes to their participants. Pedro Ernesto Aquino, the current chairman, oversees the program.

Aquino, a Marine Corps veteran who served from 1995 to 2015, suffered grave injuries to his lower back and neck in an accident in Afghanistan in 2012. The injuries left him wheelchair-bound and struggling with depression.

Upon returning to the United States, he was assigned to the Wounded Warrior Battalion West (WWBW) to aid his recovery.

When reflecting upon this period, Aquino described a sense of aimlessness. After noticing this, the section leader of the WWBW introduced him to TAV. Woodturning, in the words of Aquino, is “an old man’s hobby.”

The main instrument used for woodturning is a wood lathe that turns a block of wood while you use different tools to shape the wood into different symmetrical shapes.

Despite his pain and limited mobility, Aquino found himself completely immersed in his first woodturning class in 2012. “During that hour, I wasn’t in pain at that time. I guess my focus was on making this pen,” he said. Aquino described his first pen as a turning point in his life, noting, “my mind became clear at that moment.”

By 2019, Aquino became a mentor with SDW and a board member in 2020. After 11 years of active involvement, Aquino assumed the role of the TAV chairman.

Aquino expresses a commitment to introducing more servicemembers and veterans to woodturning, believing it can offer therapeutic benefits. He likened woodturning to navigating one’s problems, noting, “you see the bark but you don’t see what’s underneath.”

Since its formation in 2007, TAV has been able to reach about 2,500 service members, with roughly half remaining actively involved with TAV. Approximately 10% of participants become woodturners themselves, some even starting their own businesses selling items such as pens or bowls. While woodturning is not for

everybody and requires close supervision and following specific instructions, Aquino encourages them to persist and keep trying. Once they understand the basics, he believes that they will find it exciting to work freely with a block of wood.

For veterans who are struggling to transition to civilian life, Aquino advises, “Don’t be scared. Let your fears out. And I know that from my personal experience. Try something new.” He hopes to continue supporting veterans through TAV and collaborating with other organizations to expand the program’s reach.

For more information about the TAV, go to https://sdwt.org/ wood/important-club-projects/ turn-around-for-vets-1.

The County of Riverside will continue to provide law enforcement services to the City of Wildomar. The supervisors’ 5-0 vote July 30 approves a three-year agreement between the city and the county. The Sheriff’s Department will provide approximately 12 full-time equivalent positions totaling daily support of approximately 60 hours. The services will include enforcement of criminal code, city ordinances, and traffic laws. The Sheriff’s Department will also coordinate with the city on the selection of a police chief.

The previous contract expired June 30. The new agreement is retroactive to July 1 and expires on June 30, 2027. The city will reimburse the county for the law enforcement services; the expected Fiscal Year 2024-25 reimbursement is $6,953,000 while the three-year anticipated funding is $21,891,000. The county will also provide investigative support for any criminal investigations required, and any investigator overtime will be billed to the city at the county-approved hourly overtime rate. The 12 full-time equivalent positions equate to a force of five deputies: two community service officer positions, two special enforcement team positions, and one motorcycle team position.

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

Ernesto Aquino, chairman of TAV, works on a woodturning project.

Valley News/Erick Maganda photos

Jacob Garcia, a Marine Corps veteran, receives wood lathe from TAV.

Jacob Garcia presents a pen he made with his woodturning equipment.

Joe Naiman Special to Valley News

Temecula to host annual National Preparedness Fair

TEMECULA – Celebrate National Preparedness Month with The City of Temecula at the Annual National Preparedness Fair. This vital community event is dedicated to promoting emergency readiness and safety. The fair will take place on Saturday, Sept. 7 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Town Square Park, 41000 Main Street. This free, family-friendly event aims to equip residents with the knowledge and resources needed to handle various emergency situations.

The National Preparedness

Fair will feature a diverse range of emergency preparedness exhibitors, including local disaster service workers and specialists who will be on hand to provide valuable information and answer questions. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with representatives from emergency services, learn about effective preparedness strategies, and discover the latest in safety equipment and resources.

Families are encouraged to bring their children to enjoy a variety of engaging activities designed

to teach kids about emergency preparedness in a fun and interactive way. From educational games to hands-on demonstrations, there will be something for everyone at this year’s fair. Thank you to our amazing sponsors, Big B’s Plumbing and the US Army Recruiting Office, for helping make this event a success. For information on all upcoming Temecula Community Services Department events, activities, and programs, please visit TemeculaCA.gov/TCSD.

The annual National Preparedness Fair will take place Sept. 7 at Town Square Park at 41000 Main St. Valley News/Courtesy photo

Serenity Serda Valley News Intern

Fallbrook resident Rosa Rodriguez was among 250 librarians and library workers across the country selected to receive a $200 bonus sponsored by best-selling author James Patterson.

Recipients of this award were anonymously nominated by their peers. Although Rodriguez does not know who nominated her, her long-lasting impact in student outreach at the California State University of San Marcos Library leaves no room for doubt that she was more than deserving of this award.

Rodriguez grew up in North County as a first generation American, moving to Fallbrook eight years ago. As a mother of two, she was always volunteering at her children’s school. This dedication to her children’s education is what led her to pursue her own education journey.

In 2013, Rodriguez received her bachelor’s in social sciences and became the first person in her family to receive a master’s in sociological practice in 2015. She has been a library staff member for the CSUSM university library since 2016.

“When I went to go look for a full-time job [post master’s], I ended up here at Cal State San Marcos,” Rodriguez said, “I realized how much I loved outreach.”

Student outreach is one of Rodriguez’s passions, including developing programs for students such as Pause for Paws, which brings in service animals to help students and faculty during finals. She has also worked hard to create a safe space for all students, especially first-generation students and their families.

This love for student outreach encouraged Rodriguez to go back to school and receive her second master’s in library science.

One of Rodriguez’s proudest

achievements is her outreach in making sure that the library has staff that speak Spanish. She explained how most students at CSUSM are first generation, and for their families this could often leave room for anxiety.

Rodriguez explained in our interview that families felt more comfortable knowing someone was there who spoke Spanish and was able to help answer any questions they had about the campus and library services.

For Rodriguez, being able to communicate and reassure these concerns is something she has worked very hard to include.

“We incorporated having staff [that speak Spanish], at any of our events that we have where we invite the community, such as orientations,” Rodriguez explained.

Student outreach at CSUSM reflects all of Rodriguez ‘s hard work and dedication to the inclusivity and safety of her students. When asked about her goals for the future she said, “I do want to become a full-time librarian. And if I can, I would make sure I work for either one in a Spanish speaking community or in HSI [Hispanic Serving Institution] academic university or community college.”

Rodriguez is also a librarian at MiraCosta part-time, where she helps with research and will begin to help in their community learning center once a week.

To Rodriguez, the library is more than checking out books, but a place for students to ask questions, get help and feel heard. She hopes to show people whose first language isn’t English, such as herself, that they have every opportunity to succeed. And Rodriguez’s hard work has not gone unnoticed. Receiving the James Patterson award earlier this year touches only the surface of all the good she has achieved for her community and will continue to do in her career.

September 11th Remembrance Ceremony to take place at the Temecula Duck Pond

TEMECULA ─ The City of Temecula invites the community to gather for an evening of reflection in honor of the lives lost on September 11th, 2001. The remembrance ceremony will take place on Wednesday, September 11th, at 6 p.m. at the Temecula Duck Pond, located at 28250 Ynez Road.

This solemn event will feature speeches from dignitaries and first responders, who will share their reflections on the tragic events of that day. Attendees will also be invited to participate in a moment of silence to honor the memory of the victims and reflect on the enduring spirit of unity that emerged in the aftermath. Following the program, light music and refreshments will be available. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early, as parking and seating are limited.

This annual memorial serves as an opportunity for the Temecula community to come together to remember those who were lost and to reaffirm our collective commitment to the values of unity and resilience. For more information about this event and other upcoming activities hosted by the Temecula Community

Supervisors authorize bids for Grand Avenue and Sangston Drive traffic signal

Joe Naiman Special to Valley News

The County of Riverside is advertising for bids for a construction contract to install a traffic signal at Grand Avenue and Sangston Drive in Lakeland Village.

The Riverside County Board of Supervisors voted 5-0 on July 30 to authorize the advertisement for bids. The action also approved the plans and specifications for the signal construction, set a bid opening date of Aug. 21, and found the project categorically exempt from California Environmental Quality Act review.

Grand Avenue and Sangston Drive are both two-lane roads where they intersect. Sangston Drive ends at Grand Avenue and is currently controlled by a stop sign, while vehicles on Grand Avenue are not currently required to stop.

The signal construction project will include traffic signal poles with mast arms, safety lighting, traffic signal cabinets, video and radar detection units, advance signal-ahead warning signs, new thermoplastic and paint traffic striping, crosswalk and pavement markings, and roadside signs.

The work will also include the construction of curb ramps meet-

ing Americans with Disabilities Act standards, asphalt concrete dike, driveway, minor segments of concrete curb and gutter, and sidewalk. American Rescue Plan Act revenue will cover the construction cost, estimated at $604,858. The annual ongoing operations and maintenance expense for the signal system is approximately $5,500, and gas tax revenue will fund that. Construction is expected to begin in winter 2024. The work will be phased to keep the roads open as much as possible during construction. The signal is expected to be operational by June 2025.

• Tuesday, August 27th (9:00am – 3:00pm)

• Wednesday, August 28th (9:00am – 3:00pm)

• Thursday, August 29th (9:00am – 3:00pm)

Rosa Rodriguez is a library staff member for the CSUSM university library. Valley News/Courtesy photo

August 23 – 29, 2024

So-Cal Chef Open – A triumph!

Nathalie Taylor

Special to the Valley News

Dodging over 500 celebrants at the So-Cal Chef Open, I was drawn by the tantalizing aromas drifting about the grounds of Peltzer Farms in Temecula. It resembled a splendid outdoor cafe where guests were treated to a rich, satisfying culinary experience. Upbeat music and the happy chatter of guests added to the joyous ambiance.

Guests were celebrating premier chefs and delightful culinary creations. All 11 entries in the Aug. 12 competition were innovative, artistic, and delectable. The majority of the chefs belong to an exclusive club of award winners in various chef competitions. Choosing winners from this elite group of chefs was a monumental task for the judges.

The event, now in its 17th year, was presented by Murrieta Hot

Springs Resort with proceeds benefiting Oak Grove Center.

The center is an organization that assists youth who have suffered severe challenges.

Oak Grove helps to rebuild the lives of at-risk and special needs

youth through various programs, including the Culinary Creations program, which equips students with job skills necessary for success in the areas of baking, coffee, and the hospitality industry.

Chef winners placed in two award categories – the Pinnacle Award, and People’s Choice. The Pinnacle was chosen by five qualified judges who selected the winning dishes based on a combination of taste, flavors, presentation, and overall appeal. People’s Choice award recipients were chosen by the event guests. Each attendee was given three tickets, which were placed in the chefs’ individual ballot boxes.

Executive Chef Mario Amaral of Savage Chef Bar & Grill in Menifee was honored with first place in both categories. He also won the Pinnacle Award in 2022 and 2023.

After winning the first place Pinnacle Award, Chef Mario commented, “It’s an honor doing this every year for the kids, and I am so proud to be here once again.”

Chef Mario was overcome with gratitude when it was announced that he also placed first in People’s Choice. He commented, “I was really not expecting this – thank you.”

The luscious winning creation so revered by the judges and guests, was an inventive Porcini Crusted Lamb. The lamb was dusted with porcini, and then grilled over red glowing embers. Clouds of smoke filled the air with an intoxicating aroma. Once plated, the lamb was encircled by summer corn and a soft, slightly sweet heirloom tomato confit.

The lamb was tender with a hint of smoke flavor. Fresh summer truffles added a savory touch, and the flavor was further amplified by textures of olive oil and natural jus. Garnishes of edible flowers added a burst of color. All ingredients blended perfectly – no flavor was too powerful, or too weak. It was an artfully created presentation.

Second place Pinnacle Award winner was Chef Ramon Garcia of Angelo’s Brick Oven Pizzeria in Wildomar. This was his first SoCal Chef Open. Previously, he had been a member of the California Culinary Olympic Team.

The dish that Chef Ramon chose to showcase was Surf & Turf. The “surf” portion included sautéed sea scallops. The scallops weren’t in the pan for long, but the expert turning of the shellfish, and the spitting of juice from the pan as it cooked, was fascinating to watch.

Smoked strip loin steak provided the “turf.” These two stars of the show were served on a bed of parsnip purée finished with a Syrah wine demi-glace. Crispy pancetta, sautéed spinach, and handmade tricolor gnocchi added life to the dish. The imaginative creation was then garnished with parsley and pimento.

Third place Pinnacle Award winner was Executive Chef Taylor Israelsen of Avensole Winery, Temecula. Chef Taylor also placed

third for Pinnacle in 2023, and first place as a sous chef in 2020. Her entry was Lamb Croustade – which included lamb loin and belly, as well as lamb bacon, green onion, and a sweet coconut panna cotta. Duxelles of jicama and bamboo shoots lent an exotic touch. Caramelized cabbage, carrot purée, onion purée, and ginger were flavorful additions. The savory and sweet flavors blended magnificently. Crowning the dish was a delicate leaf tuile (wafer) with a hint of lemon.

Second place People’s Choice winner was Executive Chef Matthew Steffen of

Springs Resort. He has a history of winning culinary awards, including the first place Pinnacle Award in 2018 and 2019. In 2021, Chef Matthew was awarded the second place Pinnacle Award. Chef Matthew was grateful for the award, and commented, “I just do this for the kids.”

The So-Cal Chef Open was hosted at Peltzer Winery in Temecula on Monday, Aug. 12.

Valley News/Courtesy photo

Murrieta Hot

Executive Chef Mario Amaral’s first place dish – Porcini Crusted Lamb Valley News/Nathalie Taylor photo

Chef Ramon Garcia’s second place Pinnacle Award dish – Surf & Turf. Valley News/Nathalie Taylor photo

Grandmaster Chef JoJo layers plates with Asparagus Risotto for the competition. The next ingredient was tender octopus brined in red cabbage juice.

Executive Chef Chris Gimeno’s entry was Coffee & Raspberry Encrusted Filet Mignon. Valley News/Nathalie Taylor photo

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Find something to do!

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

CHILDREN’S EVENTS

Aug. 23-29 – 4:45-6 p.m. Miss April’s Dance for children Ages 3 to 10 with varied dance sessions in Ballet to Hip Hop at 29905 Evans Road, Menifee. Cost from $48 for residents and $55.20 for nonresidents. See www.cityofmenifee. us./register. Space is limited. Aug. 23 - Registration open for Children 6 to 15 fishing tournament at the Gold Era Golf Course in San Jacinto on Sept. 28. Limited to 300 children. Parent watermelon eating contest. To register see www. gsjvchamber.com

Please check the webpages for the city you live in for the latest events happening for children and youths in your community this summer. There are many youth sports programs, educational programs, city park entertainment and more to keep children of all ages occupied and interested. Valley-Wide Recreation also has many children’s activities. Please visit www.gorecreation.org

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Sept. 6 through October - 5-9 p.m. Foodie Fridays continue at the Mt. San Jacinto College campus, 28237 La Piedra Road, Menifee, with regional culinary artists, boutique vendors, local makers and live entertainment. See exploremenifee. com/foodiefridays

Aug. 29 - 6-7:30 p.m. Music

Trivia time at the Ronald H. Roberts Temecula Public Library 30600 Pauba Road, Temecula. . Adults, 18+ who enjoy music through the ages. can join us for a rockin’ time! Registration is required at the library. Visit https://temeculaca.

gov/445/Ronald-H-Roberts-Temecula-Public-Library for more info.

Sept. 4, 11, 18, 25 5-7 p.m. Wine Blending Classes. The wine experts at South Coast Winery especially enjoy sharing their passion and knowledge of wine blending with guests. It’s a fun activity that includes a friendly wine competition at the end of the classes. Each class is designed to rotate styles and types of wine. They include Sept. 4 – Reds Blending; Sept. 11 – Whites Blending; Sept. 18 – Sweets Blending; and Sept. 25 – Reds Blending. $85 per person per class, exclusive of tax and gratuity. ($107.92 with tax and gratuity.) Wine Club Members receive 35% off wines purchased.

Sept. 7 - 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Temecula celebrants Celebrate National Preparedness Month with the Annual National Preparedness Fair! This vital community event is dedicated to promoting emergency readiness and safety. The fair will take place in Town Square Park, 41000 Main Street.

Sept. 11 – 6 p.m. Temecula honors those fallen in the September 9/11 terrorist attack on New York’s Twin Towers and the Pentagon at the Duck Pond at Rancho California and Ynez streets.

Sept. 11 - 6-7 p.m. Murrieta pays

Crossword Puzzle

Theme: Music 101

tribute to those fallen in the Sept. 11 terrorist attack in New York and Washington D.C. in Town Square Park and Amphitheater, 1 Town Square, Murrieta. Sept. 20-22 - Various times. South Coast Winery’s Annual Grape Stomps in the Vineyards. For firsttime grape stompers and those who enjoy this special experience every year, South Coast Winery’s Annual Grape Stomps are an exhilarating way to celebrate the harvest of the vineyards’ estate grown grapes with an opportunity to stomp these precious grapes in a charming winery location. In the Vintner’s Garden, guests will be able to shop from local vendors, swing to live musical entertainment and, best of all, sip some exceptional award-winning wines. Cost is $50. For more info, visit southcoastwinery.com

Oct. 4-6 Temecula Greek Festival at The Promenade of Temecula sponsored by St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church of Temecula Valley. The event in the Promenade parking lot at 40820 Winchester Road, will share Greek traditions with food and entertainment. Saturday and Sunday admission to the event is $4 (no cash) while free for U.S military, veterans, first responders and children under 12. Friday night opening is free. Parking is free. For more informations call 951-286-0974 or see TemeculaGreekFest@yahoo.com or Facebook.com/TemeculalGreekFest

ONGOING – Saturdays, 8 a.m. to noon. The Sun City Farmers Market meets every Saturday at the Sun City Civic Association at 26850 Sun City Blvd., in Sun City with local vendors and crafts.

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 – Saturdays and Sundays only, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The Temecula Winchester Swap Meet continues, 33280 Newport Road in Winchester. 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

Now through Sept. 6 – 1-3 p.m. Dorland Arts Colony Arts Center Associated Artist’s Exhibit and sale at, 36701 Highway 79 South, Temecula. Public welcome.

Aug. 22 - 9:30 a.m. The California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA) will hold its annual Taxpayers’ Bill of Rights Meeting in Sacramento, but taxpayers can share their concerns, ideas, and suggestions with the Department online at www.cdtfa.ca.gov/ tra/tbor-meetings,htm or if unable to attend in person participate by telephone or submit comments by email. To participate by telephone during the meeting, dial tollfree 1-844-867-6169, access code 5591625#. Prior to the meeting, a link to http://www.cdtfa.ca.gov/tra/ tbor-meetings.htm

Aug. 23 - Mt. San Jacinto College (MSJC) is seeking public comments for a necessary accreditation review process by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC), an institutional accrediting body recognized by the Council for Higher EducationAccreditation and the U.S. Department of Education. As part of this important process, we invite members of our community and the public to participate by submitting third-party comments.ACCJC’s online third-party comment form, available at https://accjc.org/ forms/third-party-comments/. To be submitted not later than January 20, 2025. Aug. 23 - 10 a.m. Vendors wanted Temecula’s first Annual Pet-A-Palooza event, hosted by the Community Services coming on Sat. Oct. 19 at Town Square Park, 21000 Main St., Temecula. Free community wide event to adopt loveable pets.Copntact the Temecula Community Services Dept. through Sept. 14.To view the vendor guidelines and apply, please visit TemeculaCA.gov/Events Aug. 23 – 6:30 p.m. Flavors of Guatemala featured at Europa Village with live music, authentic Guatemalan food crafted by Chef Orland De Leon. at 41150 Via Europa, Temecula Wine Country. Tickets $130 per person with dinner, glass of wine or specialty cocktail. www.europavillage.com

Aug. 27 – 6:30-8 p.m. SoCal Black Chamber of Commerce Inland Valley monthly mixer. Guests will have an opportunity to promote their business and network with other business owners. Guest speaker Tonette Blum, Wellness Advocate. Presented at Hera Hub, 28999 Old Town Front St. Ste. 203 in Temecula.

Aug. 28 – 6 to 8 p.m. City Council Candidates Forum hosted by NAACP Branch 1034 Southwest Riverside County. Candidates from Lake Elsinore, Temecula, Murrieta, Menifee, Wildomar, Norco, and Perris will be presenting their platforms and answering audience questions. At the Lake Elsinore Cultural Center, 183 N. Main Street, Lake Elsinore.

Aug. 30 – 8 p.m. Sgt. John Barcellano Memorial Scholarship Fundraiser at the Lake Elsinore Storm stadium, 500 Diamond Driver, Lake Elsinore. Tickets $20. Sales help with scholarship.

Aug. 31 – 6- 8:30 p.m. Arts Council Menifee presents ”Hulas and Homicide” a mystery dinner at the Kay Ceniceros Senior Center, 28005 Bradley Road, Menifee. $50 per person, tickets available at www.artscouncilmenifee.org

Sept. 14 – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Idyllwild Area Historical Society 2024 Home Tour, presenting 5 unique private homes shown to our guests. Homes vary Idyllwild is unique with no two homes here alike, all varying in age, style and setting with custom workmanship created by local craftsmen, decorated with unique works by significant artists. Information at info@idyllwildhistory. org.The Idyllwild Area Historical Society is an All-Volunteer 501(c) (3) Nonprofit Organization, ONGOING – Temecula Valley Genealogical Society hosts the Family History Research Assistance Program for those interested in learning more about their family roots. The society offers free research assistance through this volunteer program. Appointments are available in person or via Zoom. Contact the TVGS Family Research Coordinator at tvgs.research.assist@gmail.com

ONGOING – Temecula’s Path of Honor at the Temecula Duck Pond, 28250 Ynez Road. A program to give a place to remember and honor veterans from the U.S. Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard and the World War II Merchant Marines with a permanent paver. Pavers cost $185. Orders may be placed year-round and are consolidated, engraved and placed on the path annually each November. For more information, visit http://TemeculaCA.gov/Veterans or contact the Temecula Community Services Department at 951-694-6480. ONGOING – Want to help deployed American troops remotely? Help shop for the most needed items without leaving home as an easy way to help support deployed men and women by purchasing items remotely and having them delivered to MilVet at designated drop-off locations for packing. All items on the list are special requests from deployed military men and women. MilVet is a nonprofit organization that holds monthly packaging events at different community locations in the area. For drop-off locations and packaging locations, visit www.milvet.org/military-carepackages ONGOING – Assistance League of Temecula Valley hosts a meeting for its member volunteers and guests every first Tuesday of the month (dark in July) at their facility at 28720 Via Montezuma, Temecula at 9:30 a.m. social and 10 a.m. meeting. The meeting room is adjacent to the thrift shop. Anyone interested in exploring volunteering or learning more about the organization is welcome to attend. Email altemecula@ yahoo.com for more information.

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

ONGOING – Sons of Norway/ Scandinavia meets at noon the first Saturday of every month, September to June, at the Heritage Mobile Park Clubhouse, 31130 S. General Kearny Road, in Temecula. ONGOING – 10-11:30 a.m. Michelle’s Place Cancer Resource Center and The Elizabeth Hospice host a virtual support meeting for caregivers every second and fourth week of the month via Zoom. Get helpful tips and learn from others who are also dealing with similar challenges. For more information and to register, contact The Elizabeth Hospice Grief Support Services at 833-349-2054.

ONGOING – Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous, a free 12step recovery program for anyone suffering from food obsession, overeating, undereating or bulimia, has meetings throughout the U.S. and the world. Contact 781-932-6300, or for local meetings, call 925-3210170 or visit www.foodaddicts.org ONGOING – The Murrieta Garden Club meets each month at the Murrieta Community Center, 41810 Juniper St. Anyone who likes to garden or is interested in plants is welcome. Membership is $10 per year. Find more information about the monthly event or project on Facebook.

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

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

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

ONGOING – The Dorland Scribblers meet the second Sunday of each month from 1-3 p.m. at 36701 Highway 79 South, Temecula. We welcome fiction, non-fiction, poets, memoir and screenwriters. We host writing-craft discussions; attendees may read up to a five minute excerpt from their work for feedback/critique. RSVP at www. dorlandartscolony.com/sundayscribblers.html

Spark creativity and boost your confidence this fall with JDS Creative Academy

Karlee Skipper Special to Valley News

JDS Creative Academy’s Fall Classes are back starting Aug. 26. Secure your spot now to join their exciting visual, performing, and digital arts classes. With a wide range of extracurricular classes offered, there is something for everyone. All ages and abilities are welcomed – youth, teens, and adults, everything is inclusive. No experience is needed, all that is required is a passion and desire to be creative, learn, and grow. Industry professionals lead each class in a supportive environment that strives to foster talent and skills in all students and participants. Calling all writing enthusiasts. Check out the scriptwriting classes on Mondays from 5 to 6:30 p.m. taught by award-winning writer and producer, Johanna Lack. Delve into the art of storytelling, covering essential elements such as story structure, plot dynamics, thematic development, character intricacies, and the nuances of impactful dialogue. Discover the secrets of script formats, learn effective pitching techniques, and gain insights into submitting your work to writing

contests. For ages 14 and up.

On Wednesdays, it’s filmmaking time. From 6 to 7:30 p.m., learn the ins and outs of making your own short film, plan and implement the movie production process, and hone your skills as a film producer and director – led by award-winning producer and director, Bobby Logan. For ages 15 and up.

If you are more into hands-on craftiness, sign up for the Backstage Production & Fashion Design class, also on Wednesdays from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. You will learn how to design, sew, and create costumes, build props, and master stage makeup. Then, use your skills during the Winter Showcase by working backstage on the production of The Addams Family School Edition. For ages 8 and up.

Starting Sept. 25, the DesignBuild HAUNT class officially kicks off the Halloween season.

Occurring Wednesdays from 5 to 7 p.m., this class works alongside the Backstage Production & Fashion Design class to turn the studio into a spooky haunted house for the annual Haunted Studio fundraising event. Students design and build a frightening maze that is open to the public on October 25 and 26, where

they then become the haunters of their spooktacular creation. If you are more drawn to the limelight, join the Musical Theater class and audition for a role in The Addams Family School Edition. Everyone gets a part in the production, all you need to do is sign up. Auditions are the first two classes,

followed by training and rehearsals for the remainder of the semester on Thursdays from 5 to 7 p.m. For ages 7 and up.

If you are not quite ready to perform in front of a live audience but want to dip your toes in, join yearround acting classes. Youth actors (ages 8-12) meet on Mondays from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., teens (ages 13-17) meet on Tuesdays from 5 to 7 p.m. and Adults (18+) meet on Thursdays from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

The fall semester begins the week of Aug. 26 and all classes meet the California VAPA education code. JDSCA is an approved vendor for the surrounding charter schools and Scholarships are available. Most everyone qualifies so just apply. Classes fill quickly so don’t wait.

Enroll today to secure your spot at https://jdscreativeacademy.org/ extracurricular-classes/.

About JDS Creative Academy JDS Creative Academy is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization based in Temecula, California, and hosts DigiFest Temecula. The organization is dedicated to inspiring, educating, and enhancing achievement in video production and workforce development. With a focus on visual, performing, and digital arts, JDS Creative Academy offers programs for youth, teens, adults, and mainstream and diverse populations to foster an inclusive environment. For more information, visit www. jdscreativeacademy.org or call JDS Studio at 951-296-6715.

JDS Creative Academy offers teen acting classes.

Valley News/Courtesy photos

Classes for the Haunted Studio begin Sept. 25.

The Haunted Studio returns on Oct. 25 and 26.

Greek Festival swings and sways into Temecula at the Promenade Oct. 4-6

Children to enjoy fall fishing tournament at Golden Era Golf Course ponds Sept. 28

Tony

Ault Staff Writer

The fall fishing tournament registration at Golden Era Golf Course in San Jacinto is open for children 6-15; it is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 28.

The Golden Era Golf Course,19871 Gilman Springs Road, has three lakes stocked with hundreds of bass, catfish, and other small fish. It is a catch-and-release program with many prizes, including tickets to Disneyland for the winner who catches the biggest fish. The event can host up to 300 children, who must be registered before the event.

The online registration is now open at www.gsjvchamber.com which is the Greater San Jacinto Valley Chamber of Commerce. In addition to the children’s fishing tournament, this year there will be an adult watermelon-eating contest. Potential sponsors can sign up at the website as well.

Check-in and breakfast will be from 7 to 8 a.m. and the free event will run until 11 a.m. Lunch and awards will be from 11 a.m. to noon.

This fall members of the Point Seekers Bass Club will be on hand to assist all the children. A Fish and Wildlife staff member will have rods and reels for the children and some good pointers on how to catch that big fish.

The event will feature a grand prize of four tickets to Disneyland for the biggest fish, t-shirts for each child with other prizes, and trophies for the biggest fish in each age category 6-10 and 11-15. There also will be prizes for catching a marked fish.

The pancake breakfast will be courtesy of the Hemet Rotary and the lunchtime burgers and hot dogs lunch courtesy of the Hemet Kiwanis Club.

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

Mystery Dinner Theater coming to Menifee

Diane A. Rhodes

Special to Valley News

Arts Council Menifee is presenting “Hulas and Homicide,” a Mystery Dinner Theater show on August 31 from 6-8:30 p.m. An authentic Hawaiian buffet will be catered by Gracie’s Lunchbox and specialty libations will be available at the no-host bar.

An experienced cast, directed by Sarah Gibbon, president of the recently established nonprofit Vagabond Theatre Group of Menifee, will lead guests through the interactive whodunit.

“There are only 64 spaces available with eight people at each table,” Arts Council Menifee President Colleen Ackerman said.

“Each table will be an investigative unit and will work together to solve the mystery. Whichever table solves the mystery first will get an undisclosed prize.”

With 20 years of experience cooking in the finest restaurants, Gracie’s Lunchbox Executive

Chef Ally Cazarin, along with sous chef Christiana Litton, are excited to present their phenomenal food and exceptional service to guests at the event. Everyone is encouraged to wear Hawaiian-themed clothing to fit in with the luau setting but it is not required.

ACM presented its first successful Mystery Dinner Theater in 2019 and had planned to make it an annual event. However, when the pandemic struck the following year, it was not possible, and the event was on hiatus until its current revival.

“We want to offer a fun and engaging theater experience to the community,” Ackerman said.

“And we think this is the perfect opportunity to offer an end-ofsummer event that everyone will enjoy.”

The show will take place at the Kay Ceniceros Senior Center at 29995 Evans Road in Menifee.

Tickets are $50 per person and are available at www.artscouncilmenifee.org.

from page B-1

A Wood-fired Berkshire Pig creation was Chef Matthew’s entry. The pig was purchased from Thompson Heritage Ranch in Ramona where the meat quality is high because they feed the pigs certified organic hay and non-GMO food. The Berkshire pork was tender with a hint of sweetness.

Chef Matthew served it with a rich dry-aged goat cheese. The fresh-milled polenta and buttered baby corn further amplified the dish. A bit of large leaf sorrel lent a lemony flavor to the pork. The accompanying fennel bacon jam was a perfect complement. The bacon used in the handmade jam was from the belly of the same Berkshire pig – giving life to Chef Matthew’s theme of “sustainability.”

Third place People’s Choice was won by Executive Chef Ben Diaz of Cork Fire Kitchen in Temecula. He has appeared on various television shows including Food Network’s Chef Wanted.

tacos included braised pork that was cooked for eight hours. The pork was served in flour tortillas, which were handmade using a Sonoran recipe.

Chef Ben’s creation of an inventive white bean mole definitely took much thought. He also added smoked cotija cheese and crispy cheese to the taco, as well as salsa verde and chile rojo sauces of his own creation. The result of his efforts was a taco that was truly a marvel.

Another entrant was Executive Chef Chris Gimeno of Corbeaux in Old Town Temecula. He prepared a Coffee and Raspberry Encrusted Filet Mignon. It was a creative combination, and an innovative marriage of flavors. The filet mignon was tender. A hint of the coffee/raspberry flavor was absorbed by the leek, and the edible nasturtium leaves were a fresh touch! True elegance.

and a subtle sweet/peppery flavor to the octopus.

Chef JoJo dotted the risotto with square “balsamic gummies” – his own creation.The gummies lent a pop of smoky and tart flavor to the dish. Fermented truffles and caviar were a delightful and delicious addition. Chef JoJo crowned his elaborate creation with octopusshaped crackers that he fashioned from octopus ink. It was truly a culinary work of art.

“I love food, and love the passion behind it, and love how I can manipulate it,” Chef JoJo noted. Many accolades go to each chef who participated in the intense competition. Each dish presented was thoughtfully contrived. Hours of careful thought, research, cooking, tasting, and more thought, went into each entry.

When the So-Cal Chef Open commenced, no one except the chefs themselves could know how much emotional and mental energy went into each culinary presentation. Also, the sheer volume of food that was prepared for 500 guests was staggering.

Chef Ben’s entry was Carnitas Tacos. He mentioned that he was “searching for the perfect taco,” but he quit searching and decided to make it himself. Chef Ben said he “thought outside the box, to create something unique.” The

Grand Master Chef JoJo (Joseph Saady), who is known for his cooking-related television show, “This Is Fire,” showcased Asparagus Risotto. He used the asparagus/broccoli risotto as a base, and added an explosion of flavor with octopus. The surprisingly tender octopus, which had been flown in from Spain, was sliced, and then brined in red cabbage juice. The cabbage juice lent a purple tint

The chefs not only prepared the dishes, but prepared them with attention to detail and blending of flavors. It was an incredible feat! Each chef is a winner!

Valley News/Courtesy photos

Last year's Greek Festival took place in Old Town Temecula, but this year's event will be at the Promenade of Temecula, Oct. 4-6.

Jace Glover poses with his family and friends after winning the grand prize of tickets to Disneyland for his catch of a 7.1-pound catfish at the free Golden Era Golf Course Kids Fishing Tournament on April 13.

Courtesy photo

CHEFS

HEALTH

Enhance your sleep quality with these five essential foods

Good sleep is crucial for overall health and well-being, yet many struggle to achieve restful nights. In a recent video, Dr. Berg, DC, outlined key strategies for optimizing sleep quality, with a particular focus on the role of diet. Here’s a comprehensive guide to five foods that can help improve your sleep by boosting melatonin and other sleep-promoting factors.

1. Tart Cherries

Tart cherries stand out as a natural sleep aid. Research suggests that tart cherry juice or the fruit itself can enhance melatonin levels, a hormone crucial for regulating sleep. Consuming one ounce of tart cherry juice before bed or eating tart cherries twice daily can help extend sleep duration. This is due to tart cherries containing melatonin and tryptophan, which converts into serotonin and then melatonin, potentially adding up to 84 minutes of sleep, especially beneficial for those over 50.

2. Kiwis

Kiwis are another excellent choice for improving sleep. Eating two kiwis daily has been linked to increased serotonin production, a precursor to melatonin. Studies show that regular consumption of kiwis leads to better sleep quality, longer sleep duration, and quicker sleep onset. After four weeks of adding kiwis to your diet, you may notice significant improvements in how refreshed you feel upon waking.

3. Fatty Fish

Fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna, and trout, are rich in omega-3 fatty

acids and vitamin D, both of which are beneficial for sleep. These nutrients help regulate melatonin levels and support the body’s sleep-wake cycle. Including fatty fish in your diet a few times a week can contribute to better sleep and overall health.

4. Kefir

Kefir, a fermented dairy product similar to yogurt but richer in probiotics, can also enhance sleep. Opt for unflavored, whole milk kefir from grass-fed sources, such as goat or sheep milk. Kefir supports gut health and, when combined with polyphenol-rich fruits like blueberries or raspberries, can positively impact sleep quality by improving digestion and microbiome health.

5. Sauerkraut

Sauerkraut, particularly when raw, is packed with beneficial microbes that support gut health and sleep. It contains tryptophan, which helps produce melatonin, and GABA, a neurotransmitter that calms the nervous system and promotes relaxation. Additionally, sauerkraut is high in vitamin C, which has been associated with improved sleep quality. Incorporating sauerkraut into your diet can help manage stress and support better sleep.

Additional Sleep Tips

While integrating these foods into your diet can help, there are other lifestyle adjustments to consider for optimal sleep:

Room Temperature : Maintain a cool bedroom temperature between 60-69°F, ideally around

65°F, to enhance melatonin production.

Meal Timing : Avoid large meals close to bedtime. Opt for earlier meals to prevent sleep disruptions.

Blue Light: Minimize exposure to blue light from screens before bed, as it can inhibit melatonin production. Use blue light filters if necessary and limit evening screen time.

Sun Exposure: Get adequate sunlight during the day to support natural sleep cycles. Vitamin D from sunlight can indirectly boost

melatonin levels.

Avoid Stimulants: Limit alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine intake, as these can interfere with melatonin production and overall sleep quality.

Check EMF Levels: Be aware of electromagnetic fields (EMFs) from electronic devices, which may affect sleep. Testing and reducing EMF exposure in your sleeping area can be beneficial.

By combining these dietary strategies with healthy sleep habits, you can significantly improve your sleep quality and overall

Square dancing: Out of the past and into the future

FALLBROOK – Square danc-

ing, the official folk dance of California and 31 other states, has been modernized. It is no longer about picking and strumming. In the 21st century, square dancing has taken on new sounds, new looks, and a role in the world of fitness. It’s no longer the same dance that Henry Ford promoted and turned into a dance rage during the era of the Model A Ford. Today the focus is fitness. Modern western square dancing, a low impact activity that requires constant movement and quick directional changes, helps keep the body in shape and raises heart rates. It also provides excellent mental stimulation as you follow the cues of the caller and dance to the beat of such songs as “Pretty Woman,” “On Broadway” or “All That Jazz.”

Square dancing is no longer focused on country music. Callers choose their favorites, running the gamut of the music genres. And

the dress has also changed. While some dancers still like to wear traditional square dance attire, many prefer to dance in street attire which is totally acceptable.

Modern western square dancing provides health benefits for those who dance regularly. Some of the health benefits include: Increased cardiovascular fitness: The fast-paced and energetic nature can help to increase heart rate and improve cardiovascular fitness reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Improved coordination and balance: It requires participants to move in sync with the music and with other dancers (it’s a team activity!) which can help improve coordination and balance.

Increased muscle strength and tone: It involves a lot of movement and can help tone muscles and increase strength improving overall physical fitness and reduce the risk of injury.

Reduced stress and anxiety: It

is a fun and enjoyable activity that can help reduce stress and anxiety levels helping to improve mood and overall emotional well-being.

Increased socialization: It’s a social activity that allows people to meet and interact with others who have similar interests which helps improve overall mental and emotional health by providing a sense of community and belonging.

Square dancers often speak of the four Fs: friends, family, fun, and fitness. Joining a Temecula Grape Stompers’ square dance class is a great way to meet new people and make new friends and have an opportunity to participate in social events, such as picnics, potlucks, private guided tours of museums, and interacting with animals.

Why not erase the old stereotypes and join the Grape Stompers on Tuesday, Aug. 27, for a free Intro to Square Dancing session from 6:15 to 7 p.m. at Zion Lutheran’s Fellowship Hall, 1405 E.

well-being. Remember, consistency is key, and small changes can lead to substantial improvements in how restful your nights are.

This information is taken from Dr. Berg, a Doctor of Chiropractic, who specializes in natural remedies and lifestyle changes to support overall health. Dr. Berg emphasizes the benefits of a healthy diet, regular exercise, stress management, and certain supplements for maintaining health. For more detailed information you can visit his website at drberg.com or view his YouTube channel.

Fallbrook on June 25.

Fallbrook Street in Fallbrook. Our beginning square dance class starts on Tuesday, Sept. 10 from 6:15 to 7:45 p.m. at the same location. The first night of class is free, then $8 per lesson.

For more information, call Agnes (951-676-5216) or go to

https://www.grapestompers.net/ Check out the fun square dancing video and photos of the July club dance and of our most recent social.

Submitted by the Temecula Grape Stompers.

16 signs your body needs more nutrition: A guide to identifying nutrient deficiencies

Valley Editorial Staff

According to Dr. Berg DC, understanding the subtle signs of nutritional deficiencies can be key to improving your health and wellbeing. He explains to his 500,000 subscribers on YouTube, that many health issues arise from a lack of essential nutrients, and recognizing these symptoms can help you address deficiencies before they lead to more significant problems. Here are 16 signs that he explains your body may be lacking in important nutrients and what you can do about it.

1. Brittle Nails B rittle nails often indicate a deficiency in protein. Just as animals, like horses, may overeat carbohydrates in their quest to meet protein needs, humans can also overconsume less nutritious foods when protein levels are inadequate. Ensure you’re consuming enough high-quality protein sources to support healthy nail growth.

2. Blue Clara (Bluish Tint to the Whites of the Eyes)

A blue tint in the sclera (the white part of your eye) can be a sign of iron deficiency, or anemia. This occurs due to a lack of hemoglobin, which affects oxygen transport and can lead to visible changes in eye coloration.

3. Muscle Twitching (Tics)

Frequent muscle twitches or tics, particularly around the eyes or arms, may indicate a magnesium deficiency. Magnesium is crucial for muscle relaxation and nerve function. Supplementing with magnesium can help alleviate these symptoms.

4. Flaky, Scaly Skin

Flaky or scaly skin can be a sign of an omega-3 fatty acid deficiency or an imbalance between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. To improve skin health, consider incorporating fish oil, such as cod liver oil, into your diet and reducing intake of omega-6-rich oils.

5. High Blood Pressure

Potassium deficiency is often linked to high blood pressure. Potassium helps maintain arterial tone, manage fluid balance, and counteract the effects of sodium. Increasing potassium-rich foods like bananas, sweet potatoes, and leafy greens can help regulate blood pressure.

6. Excessive Worry

Chronic worry or anxiety might be related to a lack of vitamin B1 (thiamine). This vitamin plays a role in brain function and mood regulation. Supplementing with B1 can help reduce anxiety and improve mental clarity.

7. Hyperthyroidism

If you’re dealing with hyperthyroidism, consider checking your boron levels. Boron supports thyroid health and bone density. It’s important to take boron in conjunction with other trace minerals to maintain balance.

8. Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is often linked to a deficiency in selenium, which is essential for converting thyroid hormones from their inactive form (T4) to their active form (T3). Supplementing with selenium can help manage thyroid function, especially in conditions like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

9. Hip or Joint Clicking

Clicking or popping in the joints can be a sign of a vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D plays a role

in joint health and bone remodeling. Increasing vitamin D intake, particularly in doses of 20,000 IU or more, can help improve joint function.

10. Low Testosterone

A lack of zinc is frequently associated with low testosterone levels. Zinc is crucial for testosterone production and overall hormonal balance. Foods rich in zinc, such as red meat and shellfish, can help boost testosterone levels.

11. Slow Hair Growth

If your hair is growing unusually slowly, you might be deficient in manganese. Manganese supports hair growth and overall skin health. Including a trace mineral supplement or manganese-rich foods in your diet can promote faster hair growth.

12. Premature Graying of Hair

Premature graying can be linked to a vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) deficiency. Vitamin B5 supports adrenal function and helps clear hydrogen peroxide from the body, which can affect hair pigmentation. Supplementing with B5 may help delay graying.

13. Red Gums

Red or inflamed gums are often a sign of vitamin C deficiency. Vitamin C is essential for collagen production and gum health. Incorporating foods high in vitamin C, such as raw sauerkraut, can help improve gum condition.

14. Feeling Weak

General weakness can be a symptom of sodium deficiency. Ensuring adequate salt intake, particularly sea salt, can help restore energy levels and maintain fluid balance.

15. Bruising Easily

If you find yourself bruising more

easily than usual, it could be due to a vitamin K1 deficiency. Vitamin K1 is important for blood clotting. Including vitamin K-rich foods like leafy greens can help reduce bruising.

16. Persistent Fatigue Chronic fatigue might be related to deficiencies in several nutrients, including iron, vitamin D, and B vitamins. Comprehensive testing and a balanced diet can address these deficiencies and improve overall energy levels.

Recognizing these signs can be the first step toward addressing nutritional deficiencies and improving your health. If you suspect any deficiencies, consider consulting

with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and potential supplementation. Addressing these nutritional needs can lead to significant improvements in your overall well-being. For further information on nutritional deficiencies and their signs, explore additional resources or consult with a nutrition expert. This information is taken from Dr. Berg, DC, who specializes in natural remedies and lifestyle changes to support overall health. Dr. Berg emphasizes the benefits of a healthy diet, regular exercise, stress management, and certain supplements for maintaining health. For more detailed information you can visit his website at drberg.com

Valley News/Andrea Piacquadio photo (pexels.com)

The 2023-2024 Grape Stompers Mainstream Class held their graduation in

Valley News/Courtesy photo

RIVERSIDE - Riverside County Treasurer-Tax Collector announces a significant milestone as its investment pool reached a peak of $17 billion in assets under management and retained FitchRatings AAAf/S1 ratings on August 1, 2024. This achievement underscores the county’s steadfast commitment to prudent financial management and responsible stewardship of public funds. FitchRatings’ ‘AAAf’ rating indicates the highest underlying credit quality (or lowest vulnerability to default). The ‘S1’ rating indicates a very

Joe Naiman

Special to

Valley News

In September 2023 the City of Murrieta approved a development project called The Terraces.

In October 2023 Greystar, which owns the property, submitted an application to the Regional Water Quality Control Board addressing waste discharge associated with the construction of The Terraces. The RWQCB board approved the waste discharge requirements on August 14.

The 5-0 vote, with RWQCB board member Megan Blair absent, establishes waste discharge requirements for Greystar to construct 899 apartment units on 38.7

low sensitivity to market risk.

“We are thrilled to have reached this milestone of $17 billion in our investment pool,” said Matthew Jennings, Riverside County’s Treasurer-Tax Collector. “It is a testament to our diligent investment strategies and the confidence placed in us by our stakeholders. This achievement positions us strongly to continue meeting the evolving needs of our community and driving economic growth.”

Riverside County’s Investment Pool serves as a vital resource for the county, providing funding for

gross acres. The order authorizes the permanent discharge of fill material to 0.18 acres of waters of the state with 0.6 acres of off-site mitigation.

The development site is north of Murrieta Hot Springs Road, west of Interstate 15, east of the existing Sparkman Court corridor, and south of Vista Murrieta Road. The Terraces will consist of 11 fourstory apartment buildings and 12 two-story carriage unit buildings. Construction will occur in two phases. Phase I will build 634 single and multi-bedroom units ranging in size from 743 to 1,292 square feet along with 24 twostory, one-bedroom/one-bathroom carriage units 1,052 square feet

essential services, infrastructure projects, and community initiatives. Managed with a focus on safety of the principal while maintaining liquidity and maximizing returns, the investment pool plays a crucial role in supporting the county’s long-term financial sustainability.

“We remain committed to upholding the highest standards of transparency, accountability, and fiduciary responsibility in managing the county’s investments,” added Assistant Treasurer Giovane Pizano. “Our goal is to ensure

apiece. Phase 2 will build 241 one-bedroom and multi-bedroom units. The Terraces will also have 1,135 parking spaces, a leasing center, a clubhouse, a swimming pool, various walking paths and green space areas, and a dog park.

The construction would create approximately 32.1 acres of new impervious surface. A water quality management plan complying with regional municipal stormwater permit requirements was developed. Off-site runoff will be treated with modular wetland systems. On-site runoff will be treated with a combination of modular wetland systems and biofiltration basins. Both off-site and on-site stormwater will be miti-

that every dollar entrusted to us is managed prudently and used effectively to benefit the residents and businesses of Riverside County.”

For more information about Riverside County’s investment strategies and financial management practices, visit countytreasurer.org. About Riverside County Treasurer-Tax Collector

The Riverside County Treasurer-Tax Collector is responsible for the billing and collection of property taxes, and, for the receiving, processing, investing and

gated for hydromodification with underground storage basins. The total area dedicated to the on-site stormwater management system is approximately 0.38 acres. The site is within the Murrieta Creek Hydrologic Unit of the Santa Margarita Watershed and includes approximately 0.36 acres of ephemeral non-wetland waters of the state and 0.05 acres of wetland waters of the state. The permanent discharge of fill material will impact 0.14 non-wetland acres and 0.04 wetland acres of Murrieta Creek.

A mitigation bank allows developers of property elsewhere to purchase mitigation credits that would fulfill those projects’ off-site

most importantly, safeguarding of public funds, as mandated by the laws of the state of California. The combined office is led by Matthew Jennings, a countywide, publicly elected official serving the fourth largest county in California by landmass and by population. Established May 9, 1893, Riverside County encompasses 7,303 square miles, 28 cities and a population of nearly 2.4 million.

Submitted by the Riverside County treasurer-tax collector office.

mitigation requirements. In August 2014 the RWQCB approved the San Luis Rey Mitigation Bank in the Fallbrook outskirts of Morro Hills, and that month the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers approved a Banking Enabling Instrument which approved the area as a mitigation bank. Greystar purchased 0.6 acres of San Luis Rey Mitigation Bank credits in April, which will satisfy the offsite mitigation requirements for The Terraces. Joe Naiman can be reached via email at jnaiman@reedermedia. com.

The Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District will be implementing an Advancing Women in Water and Wastewater Leadership Academy, and that program has been awarded a $150,000 grant.

The grant is from the California Water, Wastewater, and Energy Workforce Development Program which is funded by the California Municipal Utilities Association.

The program is intended to improve access to career ladder pathways, enhance job-related skills needed for advancement, and eliminate structural barriers to executive leadership opportunities for women in the water and wastewater industry.

“I think it’s pretty incredible,” said Sylvia Ornelas, EVMWD community affairs supervisor.

Four women including Ornelas wrote the grant application. The other three are director of human

resources Rebecca Christopher, grants program administrator Serena Johns, and government relations officer Erin Sasse.

The EVMWD staff includes 60 women, which is approximately one-third of the total number of district employees. “Women in water and wastewater are really underrepresented,” Ornelas said.

“It’s really important to help the women here at EVMWD,” Ornelas said.

“We’re going to do a 12-month

Phil and Carol Baily moved to Temecula in 1981, first planted grapes on their property in 1982, and opened a winery in 1986. The farm includes 25 acres of grapes. The RWQCB adopted a waste discharge order for Baily Vineyard & Winery in July 2001.

program,” Ornelas said. “It’s the first of its kind, so I think it’s pretty incredible. We have not seen a program like this.”

The California Water, Wastewater, and Energy Workforce Development Program also had not previously been aware of such a program. The application only asked for $50,000, but the grant program offered additional funding. “They were so impressed with our grant,” Ornelas said.

Four grants totaling $500,000

were awarded. Although the EVMWD program is for existing staff the activities will include regional networking. The district will host three regional events as well as implement a comprehensive training program designed to support women at various stages of their careers in the water and wastewater industries. Joe Naiman can be reached via email at jnaiman@reedermedia. com.

The state general order is intended for wineries and other similar facilities with activities related to producing wine or grape juice which generate winery waste and discharge it to land for reuse or disposal. Reuse activities include the use of treated process water for agricultural or landscape irrigation and the use of residual solids from winery processing as a soil amendment. Winery waste includes but is not limited to wine, grape juice, winery process water, and winery process solids while winery process water includes but

is not limited to wash water, cooling water, and stormwater directed through the process water collection, treatment, or disposal system and/or land applied. Winery process solids include but are not limited to leaves, stems, pomace (grape skins, seeds, and pulp), lees (yeast and other fine particulates), bentonite, and diatomaceous earth.

The state general order has five tiers. Tier 1 is for wineries with annual process water flow between 10,000 and 30,000 gallons, which equates to 28 to 83 gallons on a daily basis. Baily Vineyard & Winery will be regulated under Tier 1.

The elimination of individual discharge orders allows the RWQCB to utilize its resources for higher-priority projects that are more of a threat to water quality. RWQCB staff determined that Baily Vineyard & Winery

B USINESS D IRECTORY

Estimates Lic#700305 Fallbrook / North County 760-728-1796 / 760-723-1736 Temecula 951-246-0350 / 951-676-6530 www.woodspainting.com

is eligible for the statewide general order. A May 2022 inspection did not observe any violation of the requirements of the individual waste discharge order. The only historical violations of the RWQCB waste discharge order were for deficient or late monitoring in 2010 and 2013, but all other required monitoring reports have been submitted on time and were complete.

The tentative rescission of the RWQCB waste discharge order was released for a 30-day public review and comment period on March 18. No public comments were received by the April 19 deadline.

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

Joe Naiman Special to Valley News

Feeding the pandas bamboo at the San Diego Zoo

Roger Boddaert

Special to the Valley News

With the new arrival of the international giant pandas, their dinner plate is in the making with various species of bamboo here in San Diego.

Southern California has a wide spectrum of exotic bamboos that can grow and thrive in our soft Mediterranean climate.

There are 42 species of bamboo that the pandas eat in their native landscape, with some supplementary rodents, birds, and fish occasionally.

The remote tropical forest in central west China with its mountains ranging from 5,000 to 10,000 feet in elevation is where approximately 1,800 pandas live, roam, and thrive today.

A mature panda can consume between 40 to 80 pounds of fresh bamboo depending on what part of the bamboo they eat, from the canes to the foliage and occasionally new budding shoots.

Farmers in that tropical region are encouraged to plant bamboo and to cultivate it as a local food source for the indigenous pandas.

The Safari Park (Wild Animal Park, part of the San Diego Zoo) in San Pasqual Valley has an extensive farm dedicated to growing many foliage and greens to supplement the diets of the pandas and other exotic animals like koalas which enjoy fresh eucalyptus and acacia boughs daily.

This horticultural program is designed to grow, feed and match the nutritional requirements of many of the zoo’s animals and is ongoing throughout the year here in San Diego.

A mature female panda can have between three and five cubs, which weigh about the same as a stick of butter and are pink when born and then start to take on shades of black and white shortly thereafter.

The International Union of Conservation of Nature has a breeding program to increase and enhance the panda population worldwide with the San Diego Zoo being the forerunner with this delicate and scientific program.

One of the challenges is that when certain species of bamboo mature and go into their flowering stage, they die, but produce thousands of seeds which take decades to mature into full-grown shoots.

One of the finest collections of bamboo in the United States is locally at the San Diego Botanical Gardens in Encinitas, and I suggest a visit if you want to educate yourself and learn more about bamboo, which is in the grass family.

Bamboo is a sustainable farmed crop and produces droves of products globally.

Some of these commodities are construction materials, fencing, landscape plants, chopsticks and utilities, packing materials, veneers, flooring, foods, clothing and so much more.

I have grown several species of bamboo in my botanical collection here in Fallbrook and have enjoyed the metamorphosis of its development over the years and have been an on-site observer in one of the world’s unique bamboo families and I am thankful for that experience.

Roger Boddaert, The Tree Man & Maker of Natural Gardens, can be reached at 760-728-4297 or bogitt@aol.com.

Giant timbers of bamboo grow in Rogers garden.

Bamboo shoots are one of the delicacies for gourmet cooking.

Yun Chuan and Xin Bao at their new home in San Diego Zoo. Valley News/Courtesy photo

Erupting bamboo shoots grow fast in the summer’s heat. Valley News/Roger Boddaert photos

Pandas enjoy fresh bamboo foliage to munch on.

Timber bamboo in Fallbrook can tower over 50’ in height.

RCWD approves PFAS treatment grant application

Joe Naiman Special to Valley News

The Rancho California Water District and the United States have been collaborating on a Bureau of Reclamation grant to Rancho Water for per and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) treatment. On August 8 the RCWD board approved the grant application.

The 6-0 board vote, with Bill Wilson absent, adopts a resolution endorsing the RCWD grant application. The grant would be for $400,000 and would be funded by the Bureau of Reclamation’s WaterSmart Planning and Project Design Grants Program.

Per and polyfluoroalkyl substances are a group of man-made chemicals that include perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA),

and other chemicals. PFAS chemicals have been manufactured and used in many industries since the 1940s, and their commercial use includes clothes, cosmetics, dental floss, furniture, carpets, pizza boxes, popcorn bags, non-stick cookware, lubricants, paints, and firefighting foams. PFOS was phased out of production in the United States in 2002 and PFOA was phased out in the United States in 2015, although those chemicals are still present in some imported products. Because PFOS and PFOA do not break down and can accumulate over time those chemicals exist in the environment and in the human body. Exposure to PFAS chemicals may result in adverse health effects. In April 2024 the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency adopted maximum contaminant

levels of 4.0 parts per trillion (ppt) for PFOS and PFOA and 10 ppt for three other PFAS contaminants.

The Bureau of Reclamation grant to Rancho Water would be for the design efforts of the PFAS treatment. The grant has a 50 percent match requirement, so $400,000 of RCWD funding which can include staff time will complement the Federal grant.

The resolution approved on August 8 authorizes the RCWD general manager or his designee to accept the grant and sign any contract for the administration of the grant funds. The district’s chief financial officer was delegated to act as the fiscal agent for any grant funding received. Joe Naiman can be reached via email at jnaiman@reedermedia. com.

RWQCB rescinds waste discharge order for Kkottongnae Retreat Camp

Joe Naiman Special to Valley News

The Regional Water Quality Control Board rescinded the RWQCB waste discharge order for the Kkottongnae Retreat Camp in Temecula.

A 5-0 RWQCB vote August 14, with Megan Blair absent, replaces the waste discharge order for the specific facility with a general order which allows reporting for individual facilities to be consolidated. The Korean Catholic retreat venue will be regulated under the state general order covering waste discharge requirements for small domestic wastewater treatment systems.

In 1976 the RWQCB made all campgrounds with the potential for recreational vehicles to discharge holding tank contents into the subsurface disposal system subject to waste discharge requirement orders. The facility in the 37800 block of Woodchuck Road was called Woodchuck Campground when the original waste discharge order was issued in October 1993. The on-site wastewater treatment system of what is now the Kkot-

tongnae Retreat Camp has three septic tanks, an extended aeration basin, a pump chamber, and a leach field. The treatment system collects wastewater from a dormitory, two restrooms, a kitchen, and a laundry facility. The Kkottongnae Retreat Camp has an RV dump station that connects to a holding tank separate from the on-site wastewater treatment system. Ownership of the campground was transferred to Kkottongnae, Inc., in June 2002 and the name of the facility was also changed at that time.

In 2014 the State Water Quality Control Board approved a waste discharge requirement general order for small domestic wastewater treatment systems. Discharges from small domestic wastewater treatment systems have certain common characteristics such as similar constituents, concentrations of constituents, disposal techniques, and flow ranges, and they require the same or similar treatment standards. The Kkottongnae Retreat Camp discharges less than 100,000 gallons per day and is eligible for the statewide order, which will provide a more consistent and streamlined state-

wide approach to regulating small domestic wastewater treatment systems. The monitoring requirements of the general order are not as stringent as the requirements for the regulation of the specific facility, but the monitoring and reporting program required by the general order is more consistent with facilities of similar size and discharge across the state. The elimination of individual discharge orders allows the RWQCB to utilize its resources for higherpriority projects that are more of a threat to water quality.

The facility exceeded the biological oxygen demand and methylene blue activated substances effluent limitations in 2008 and 2009. The RWQCB issued a staff enforcement letter, and the violations were corrected. In March 2023 RWQCB staff inspected the Kkottongnae on-site wastewater treatment system and did not find any violations.

The tentative rescission of the waste discharge order was released for a 30-day public review and comment period on May 3, and no public comments were received by the June 3 deadline.

EVMWD women first, third in AWWA national Hydrant Hysteria competition

Joe Naiman Special to Valley News

The American Water Works Association annual conference, June 10-13 in Anaheim, held a Hydrant Hysteria competition in which two-person teams assembled a fire hydrant. At this year’s Annual Conference and Expo duos from the Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District took first and third in the women’s Hydrant Hysteria competition.

The Hydrant Belles team comprised of EVMWD staff members Haley Garland and Lulu Seward were the fastest female pair to assemble a hydrant. Jennifer Aguirre and Lenai Hunter comprised the Sprinkle Squad team which placed third.

“I think it’s pretty incredible,” said EVMWD community affairs supervisor Sylvia Ornelas.

The AWWA annual conference was in Southern California for two consecutive years. The 2023 conference was in San Diego, and female EVMWD staff members witnessed the Hydrant Hysteria activity.

“They were inspired by the competition. They came back really excited,” Ornelas said. “They just were super inspired by all of these women who were competing at the San Diego conference.”

The 2024 Hydrant Hysteria aspirants were able to find four EVMWD women who were interested in competing. “All four of these women do not work with hydrants. They’re not even in the same department,” Ornelas said.

(Actual EVMWD hydrant assembly is performed by the district’s meter department.)

The teams are allowed a coach.

The coach for the women’s teams can be either male or female. Ray McCullough volunteered to coach Hydrant Belles and Brian Vigil coached Sprinkle Squad.

The women began practicing at the beginning of February. Initially, their times to assemble a hydrant exceeded eight minutes.

The teams increased their practice frequency from three to five days each week.

In late February the two EVMWD teams were part of a demonstration at a fair conducted by the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power. The Sprinkle Squad duo assembled their hydrant in 1:53 while Hydrant Belles completed their task in 2:13.

The AWWA has sections including the California-Nevada section. That section held an Operator Symposium which included the regional-level Hydrant Hysteria competition March 26-27 in Burlingame. Hydrant Belles and Sprinkle Squad swept first and second and were 1/100 of a second within each other; Garland and Seward had a time of 1:47.35 and Aguirre and Hunter finished in 1:47.36.

The host section is allowed to enter two men’s teams and two women’s teams at the national Hydrant Hysteria competition. Garland and Seward gave Hydrant Belles a winning time of 1:31.25. The American Water Works Association includes Canadian sections, and the Ontario provincial section team called the Region of Peel Pipe Wenches took second place with a time of 1:35.19. Sprinkle Squad captured third place with Aguirre and Hunter assembling their hydrant in 1:39.50.

The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power had the only California-Nevada section men’s team to place in the top three; that duo was third in the men’s competition. The Pacific Northwest section includes Idaho, Oregon, and Washington, and the Lake Meridian men’s team placed first. Including the men’s times, Hydrant Belles placed sixth overall and Sprinkle Squad had the eighthfastest time.

“We’re just proud of their accomplishments and grateful for the unwavering support from EVMWD’s management and the board members,” Ornelas said.

Supervisors approve $255k for Temecula Social Services office lease

Joe Naiman Special to Valley News

The Riverside County Board of Supervisors extended the county’s lease for the Department of Public Social Services office in Temecula.

The supervisors’ 5-0 vote July 30, approves a new three-year lease retroactive to January 1. The lease for the building owned by Alas Company, LLC, will expire on December 31, 2026.

The county has leased the premises at 43264 Business Park Drive since 1995, and the lease had previously been extended seven times. The 10,142 sq. ft. facility continues to meet the needs of the Self Sufficiency Division of the Department of Public Social Services. The previous lease extension was approved in April 2019 and ended December 31, 2023. The rent had been $2.10 per square foot, which equated to $21,298.20 monthly or $255,578.40 on an annual basis. The new lease has an initial rent amount of $2.35 per square foot, which would be $23,833.70 monthly and $286,004.40 annually, and an annual 3 percent escalation clause is included. The county will pay for the telephone and electricity bills while Alas Company will be responsible for all other utilities including water, sewer, and trash. Alas Company will also cover the cost of custodial service and both interior and exterior maintenance.

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

A night of laughter follows the pickleball wine tour at the Pickleflix Comedy Film Festival

JP Raineri Sports Editor

TEMECULA — History was made on Friday, August 9th, at the Edward’s Regal Theatre in the Promenade Mall as the first-ever Pickleflix Pickleball Comedy Film Festival took place. This sold-out event saw 351 attendees come together to celebrate the unique blend of pickleball, comedy, and community. The night was marked with laughter, Hollywood glamour, and an unforgettable experience in Southern California’s wine country.

The evening began with a redcarpet welcome, where guests, dressed in their finest black-tieoptional attire, were greeted with a cocktail reception. The atmosphere was electric, setting the stage for an evening filled with “laugh out loud” moments. One of the highlights was the celebrity mixer, where VIP guests had the opportunity to mingle with some of the biggest names in the pickleball and comedy world.

Prior to the night’s festivities, a VIP experience like no other was provided to 30 celebrities and special guests. They were transported in style by Grapeline and Stryder Transportation’s luxury convertible executive shuttle. The day started with a round-robin pickleball tournament at a private residence featuring three courts surrounded by a stadium, hosted by Andy and Shawna Tibbetts of Legacy Dental and Dumbrod Media. Guests enjoyed a continental

breakfast with mimosas, followed by a gourmet lunch, wine tasting, and a behind-the-scenes winery tour led by Craig and Libby Johns, two of the founders of the renowned Wilson Creek Winery.

As the evening progressed, festivalgoers were treated to a series of films and comedy sketches inside Theatre #1. The lineup showcased the talents of 13 of the top 25 pickleball comedy content creators and comedians from around the world.

Performances included Donald Trump impersonator Johnny D Domenico, AGT finalist Vicki Barbolak, the hilarious Stone and Stone Brothers, Dumbrod Media (Andy and Shawna Tibbetts), Dean LaCrone, Fit2Serve, Pickleball Channel, Orchards, Security Guy, Friday Pickleball, Pickleball or Die memes, Prime Time Pickleball, and The Holderness Family.

The festival also honored one of pickleball’s founders, Barney McCollum, with a special screening of a biography detailing the sport’s humble beginnings on Bainbridge Island, Washington. This tribute, produced by The Pickleball Channel, was a poignant reminder of the sport’s rich history and the community it has built.

Event photographer Craig “CraSH” Hattori, known for his work with Hollywood awards shows, captured the glamour and excitement of the night, ensuring that the memories of this historic event would be preserved for years to come.

luxurious transportation experience for

Transportation’s executive shuttle.

The vibrant crowd continued the fun at Luke’s on Front Street for the after-party. From start to finish, the Pickleflix Pickleball Comedy Film Festival was a resounding success, cementing its place as a groundbreaking event in the world of pickleball and comedy. The event raised awareness and provided a $1,000 gift for the three local high schools’ Unified Sports programs, supporting the purchase of jerseys and transportation.

“We are very thankful and blessed to have the support of our community as we grow and develop,” says Johns.

The perfect blend of high-energy entertainment, VIP treatment, and community spirit has set the bar for future events. Attendees are eagerly awaiting the Pickleball Extravaganza in Viva Las Vegas, scheduled for Thursday through Saturday, October 10-12. Highlights of the upcoming event include a pro/am tournament,

amateur team games, the Pickleflix Film Festival, and a unified sports fundraiser. The event will be housed at the Plaza Hotel and Casino, which is blocking rooms for bundled packages. Keep an eye on Pickleflix.com for more details.

Title sponsors for the week included: So Cal Pickleball, Salt & Light Wellness, Legacy Dental, Dr. Andy Tibbetts, Doug’s So Cal Painting, Jerry Newey, EXP Realty, Brioti Pickleball Glasses, Sxy Sports Pickleball Paddles,

Nutrishop, Reload Pickleball Paddle System, Tosi Healthy Sport Snacks, Intazza Coffee, Temecula Laptop Repair, Able Mortgage, Friar Tux, Luke’s on Front Street, Longhorn Steakhouse, Public House, Pierson Print, Paintball Gateway, Wilson Creek Winery, Selkirk Sports, and Stryder Transportation / Grapeline Shuttle. Send your local sports tips and updates to sports@reedermedia. com

The Red Carpet event at Edward’s Regal Theatre in the Promenade Mall captured excitement and glamour as Jordan Bryant welcomed guests to the festival. Valley News/ Craig “CraSH” Hattori photo

A Wilson Creek Winery Tour, led by Craig Johns, highlighted exclusive behind-the-scenes opportunity. Valley News/ Craig “CraSH” Hattori photo

about 30 VIP’s and celebrities was provided by Grapeline and Stryder

Valley News/ Craig “CraSH” Hattori photo

Attendees of the Red-Carpet Event enjoy their time by gathering for a selfie. Valley News/ Craig “CraSH” Hattori photo

Guests competed in a round-robin pickleball tournament at a private residence featuring three courts surrounded by a stadium. Valley News/ Craig “CraSH” Hattori photo

The after Party with Jordan Bryant at Luke’s on Front Street captures the lively atmosphere and continued celebration.Valley News/ Craig “CraSH” Hattori photo

Linfield Lions ready to roar in new season

JP Raineri Sports Editor

TEMECULA – The Linfield Lions kicked off their prep football season with a spirited scrimmage against Xavier Prep on Friday, August 16. It was a night filled with promising moments and valuable practice as the team geared up for their regular season opener.

On Saturday, August 24 at 7 p.m., the Linfield Christian (Temecula) varsity football team will host Christian (El Cajon) in a non-conference game. The Lions are coming off a strong 8-4 overall season last year, finishing 4-1 in the Mesquite League. This performance secured them second place, trailing only behind Capistrano Valley Christian (5-0).

Last season saw Linfield making waves in the CIF Southern Section Division 11 playoffs.

They triumphed over the Hillcrest Trojans in the first round but faced a challenging defeat against Quartz Hill, concluding their playoff run with a 40-16 loss in the semifinals.

The Lions have set high expectations for the upcoming season, fueled by the experience and lessons learned from last year. After five preseason games, Linfield will kick off their Mesquite League schedule with a highly anticipated matchup against Maranatha on October 10.

Under the seasoned guidance of head coach DeChon Burns, the Lions are expected to dominate the league. Coach Burns’ leadership and strategic expertise have been instrumental in shaping the team’s competitive edge.

Pep Fernandez of Inland Sports has pegged the Lions as the team to beat this season and fans can follow Pep and all the action this fall by going to www.inlandsports. wordpress.com.

Fans and supporters are awaiting the start of the regular season to see how the team will perform. With a blend of returning talent and fresh faces, the Lions are poised to make a significant impact.

Send local sports tips and updates to sports@reedermedia. com

Friday Night Battle for the I.E.: Local boxers shine at Soboba Casino

JP Raineri Sports Editor

SAN JACINTO — On Friday, August 16, 2024, the Soboba Casino buzzed with excitement as House of Pain Boxing Promotions and Fearless Boxing Promotions hosted a thrilling night of boxing, aptly titled “Friday Night Battle for the I.E.” The eight-bout card featured a mix of local talent and rising stars, drawing an enthusiastic crowd eager to support their hometown fighters. Among the roster, four bouts highlighted local boxers who did not disappoint. P-Town Boxing’s

AnzA VAlley

Alonso “Hulk” Cisneros, Charles “ARP” Jefferson, and William King displayed their skills alongside House of Pain Boxing’s Jimmie Nunez, who headlined the event. Alonso “Hulk” Cisneros electrified the audience with a powerful knockout, solidifying his status as a fan favorite. Charles “ARP” Jefferson followed suit, delivering a knockout that had the crowd on their feet. In the evening’s main event, Jimmie Nunez dominated his opponent, ending the fight with an impressive knockout that left no doubt about his prowess in the ring. William King, in the most competitive bout of the night, faced a tough challenge and fell

short by split decision. Despite the loss, King’s performance was commendable and exhibited his resilience and skill.

Adding to the night’s significance, House of Pain Boxing received special recognition for their ongoing commitment to the community. United States Congressman Darrell Issa presented the organization with a Certificate of Recognition, applauding their mentorship programs that positively impact local youth.

The “Friday Night Battle for the I.E.” at Soboba Casino was a resounding success, highlighting the talent and determination of local boxers. With knockout victories and a certificate of recognition, the event underscored the vibrant boxing community in the Inland Empire.

Boxing enthusiasts can look forward to more action as Marvnation Promotions gears up for their next event at Pechanga, scheduled for September 6. Fight fans are already marking their calendars for what promises to be another exciting night of boxing. Article contributions made by Action Captures Media Group. Send local sports tips and updates to sports@reedermedia. com

AnzA VAlley OUTLOOK

OUTLOOK

Linfield Lions quarterback prepares to throw a pass during a scrimmage against Xavier Prep on Aug. 16. Valley News/Rob Davis Photography

Linfield Christian looks ready for action during their season opener scrimmage.

Linfield’s head coach DeChon Burns rallies his team after halftime of their scrimmage last week.

[Right] Linfield Lions players in action during their scrimmage against Xavier Prep.

Alonso Cisneros (black trunks) and Cesar Orozco exchange punches during the bout. Valley News/Action Captures Media Group

House of Pain Boxing was presented with a certificate of recognition by US Congressman Darrell Issa for their work with the mentorship program.

Charles Jefferson raises his hand in victory following his knockout win. William King (right) and Ezequiel Flores exchange punches during the bout.

Storm falls short in a tight contest against 66ers

JP Raineri Sports Editor

LAKE ELSINORE – In an intense battle last Friday night, the Lake Elsinore Storm fell to the Inland Empire 66ers by a narrow score of 4-3 at The Lake Elsinore Diamond.

Starting pitcher Ian Koenig took the mound for the Storm and delivered an impressive performance over five innings. He struck out five batters and allowed just two runs. However, the Storm’s offense managed to only put three runs on the board throughout the game.

All three of those runs came in a dramatic bottom of the fifth inning. The inning began with a hit-by-pitch and a single, followed by a balk and another hit-bypitch, which loaded the bases for

Leodalis De Vries. The 17-year-old phenom delivered a long sacrifice fly to left field, bringing in the first run. Brandon Butterworth then hit a double down the line that cleared the bullpen wall on the away side, driving in two more runs. Jack Costello walked, securing the final RBI of the inning. This rally gave the Storm a temporary lead, but it was not enough to secure the win. The 66ers responded with two runs in the top of the seventh inning, reclaiming the lead. Yerry Landinez made his return to the Storm and pitched two scoreless innings, setting up a tense bottom of the ninth.

De Vries led off the final frame with a double that he crushed into center field. Butterworth then grounded out to the pitcher, but De Vries aggressively advanced to third and was called out on the tag.

This play significantly dampened the Storm’s chances, and they managed only one additional hit, bringing their game total to six.

On Saturday night, the Storm aimed to balance the series scales but fell short in a 3-2 loss. However, they bounced back on Sunday with an explosive offensive performance, winning the game 10-4 and securing the final game of the series.

This week, the Storm will be

Raineri Sports Editor

Menifee’s rising star, Hudson Bills, is making waves this summer. Bills, an infielder and left-handed pitcher, has advanced to the 2024 12U USA National Team extended training camp roster after an impressive performance at the initial training camp in Cary, North Carolina.

The 12U National Team Training Camp concluded with the final game of the Stars vs. Stripes series at Thomas Brooks Park. The camp provided an invaluable experience for both players and families and marked another milestone for Manager Bryan Madsen.

Madsen has been a long-time contributor to USA Baseball, participating in events like the 13U/14U Athlete Development Program, the Futures Invitational,

and the National Team Identification Series Champions Cup. Last year, he served as an assistant coach at the World Baseball Softball Confederation Baseball World Cup, where the team clinched a gold medal in Taiwan. This year’s camp presented a new challenge as it was Madsen’s first time as a national team manager.

“There’s a lot of responsibility that comes with being the manager,” Madsen notes. “It’s completely different. I’ve always joked, every level when you start as a Training Camp coach and then you move up to staff; it’s a new feeling of responsibility. And then to be the manager is just completely different. You have to take charge in some situations where before, I looked to other, more veteran staff members for guidance. I think I found my way on the second or third day.”

The 24 players selected for the extended training camp will vie for the final 18 spots on the roster that will compete in the 12U Baseball World Cup Americas Qualifier from Sept. 20-29 in Tegucigalpa, Honduras. Madsen is confident about the team’s potential.

“We need to find the right 18 players for our team. I think we’ll do that. We’ll start putting a little more pressure on the guys. We’ll also start installing plays and things that are going to be used more when we get to Honduras. This Training Camp was more so we could see what they could do and really let them highlight those skills. We wanted to give them a little guidance and see if they can take it. Our mindset was to teach them some things and see if they can implement it in in-game see BASEBALL, page C-4

on the road to take on Rancho Cucamonga before returning next week to face Modesto. Currently, the Storm hold a 27-21 record in the California League South Standings, placing them in third for the second half behind Visalia and Rancho Cucamonga, both with 28-20 records. Despite this, their strong first-half performance has already secured them a playoff spot. The Cal League playoffs are set to begin on September 12 at

The Diamond in Lake Elsinore. Check out the Valley News social media channels for opportunities to win tickets to games and visit www.stormbaseball.com for ticket info, promotions schedules and more. Article contributions made by Storm Multimedia Manager Justin Jett. JP Raineri can be reached by email at sports@reedermedia. com

Lake Elsinore Storm player, Leodalis De Vries (15), celebrates after hitting a double against the Inland Empire 66ers.

Starting pitcher Ian Koenig (23) delivers a pitch during Lake Elsinore’s game against the Inland Empire 66ers on Friday, Aug. 16, at The Diamond in Lake Elsinore.

66ers’ Mitchell Daly (14) tags Leodalis De Vries (15) out as he runs to third base during their Friday night game in Lake Elsinore.

Brandon Butterworth (2) passes the ball to first base during Lake Elsinore’s game against the Inland Empire 66ers last Friday night.

Chase Valentine (39) runs to home plate during their game against Inland Empire on Friday, Aug. 16, at The Diamond in Lake Elsinore.

Valley News/Rebecca Villagracia photos

Menifee’s Hudson Bills shines at 12U USA Baseball National Team Training Camp

Hudson Bills showcases his skills in

Hudson Bills delivers a powerful pitch during a recent game. Valley News/Courtesy photos

EDUCATION

Over 1,400 Students receive free shoes and backpacks at Back to School Resource Fairs

ELSINORE/RIVERSIDE –

Fresh footwear, a new backpack stuffed with school supplies, a stylish haircut, a dental cleaning and exam, and an overall health physical for 1,465 students and a total of 2,304 community members in Riverside County, were all packed into two Back to School Resource Fairs held on July 30 with Lake Elsinore Unified School District at the Jean Hayman Training Center, and on August 3 with the Alvord Unified School District at La Sierra High School in partnership with the Riverside County Office of Education.

“The rising costs of school supplies and the student and parent expectations ahead of a new year can be stressful for families. A sense of physical and emotional wellness, and even a new pair of shoes or a backpack, can help build confidence for students and set a positive tone for the first day of the school year,” said Riverside County Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Edwin Gomez. “We are grateful for our district partners who hosted these events for their communities, along with all of our partners who have generously donated time, services, and supplies.”

The free events were open to students in foster care, and families experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness. Services were provided by practitioners from GeriSmiles, All Kids Health, and cosmetology students from Advance Beauty Techs Academy. In addition, 32 community agencies were on hand to provide information to families and students.

Event partners included Soles4Souls and Kaiser Foundation Health Plan.

Soles4Souls, a global non-profit

dedicated to fighting the impact and perpetuation of poverty, has donated 1,750 pairs of shoes, and 4,000 pairs of socks. Soles4Souls volunteers were on-site in their popup “shoe store” working toward their goal of providing every child with a new pair of shoes.

Kaiser Foundation Health Plan, Inc. conducted a backpack drive at their three Riverside County medical center locations. More than 1,800 backpacks loaded with school supplies were received from employees, patients, and their vendors.

In addition, donations have been received from Bombas Socks, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, and Supply Bank.

For more information on accessing services or student/family needs for back to school, contact the McKinney Vento Homeless Youth Services at studentservices@ rcoe.us or Foster Youth Services Coordinating Program (FYSCP) Unit at the Riverside County Office of Education at 951-826-4700 or FYSCP@rcoe.us

RCOE is a service agency supporting the county’s 23 school districts and 500+ schools that serve nearly 430,000 students— more than the student population of 17 states. RCOE services include administrative support to districts and charter schools, programs for preschool, special education, pregnant minor, correctional, migrant, and vocational students. In addition, the organization provides professional training, support, and resources for more than 18,000 teachers, administrators, and staff, throughout the 7,000 square miles of Riverside County. Learn more at www.rcoe.us.

Senator Ochoa Bogh congratulates District 23 Minerva Scholarship recipients

SACRAMENTO - Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh (R-Yucaipa) is proud to announce that Celi Orozco and Halle Aldrich, residents of Senate District 23, have been selected to receive a 2024 Minerva Scholarship.

“I am truly overjoyed to support scholarship opportunities, especially those that empower women through higher education,” said Sen. Ochoa Bogh, Vice Chair of the Senate Education Committee. “Education is such a priceless gift. I am incredibly proud of Celi and Halle for their leadership, determination, and resilience. I eagerly look forward to

seeing you reach your educational goals and positively impact your communities. Congratulations!”

Celi is a dedicated leader and community advocate from Menifee. As a female wrestler at Paloma Valley High School, she mentored new athletes, helping them build confidence. She served as secretary of the Latin Culture Club and the Interact Club, organizing events and volunteer opportunities. At UC Berkeley, Celi contributed to the Medical Journal, interviewed researchers, and volunteered with the Red Cross and Raices Retention Center, encouraging students of

color to pursue higher education. Her diverse roles showcase her commitment to service and leadership. Celi is approaching her second year at the University of California, Berkeley, pursuing her bachelor’s degree in molecular and cell biology.

Halle, a Yucaipa resident, is an emerging leader with a history of impactful roles in various settings.

In high school, she demonstrated her leadership skills as the captain of the basketball team. Currently, she is the kitchen shift lead at a camp, overseeing operations and ensuring smooth service. Additionally, during the spring

2024 semester, Halle was selected as a ‘Squad Leader’ in an EMT Program, standing out among over 40 students. In this role, she was responsible for preparing her peers for skills stations, maintaining uniform standards, ensuring appropriate behavior, and showcasing her organizational and leadership abilities. Halle will attend the University of California, Irvine, as a junior in the fall. There, she plans to major in Biological Sciences and minor in Medical Humanities.

WiCL Minerva Scholarship is awarded to eligible female students admitted to or currently

enrolled at an accredited college or university. The winners are selected from a highly competitive pool based on their intellectual energy, scholastic achievement, community involvement, and work history. The scholarships are distributed by Women in California Leadership (WiCL) in collaboration with the California Legislative Women’s Caucus. Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh represents the 23rd Senate District which includes portions of Los Angeles, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties.

Veterans without high school diplomas sought for Riverside County Operation Recognition Program

RIVERSIDE – They were away from home serving their country while classmates were marching in commencement ceremonies, and now their commitment to their country will be honored with the high school diploma they never received. Veterans from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard who missed out on their high school graduations due to military service have until

BASEBALL from page C-3

situations. The extended Training Camp will be pretty much pedal to metal and see who can handle that. I know we have 24 really good baseball players going to the extended camp so it will be a tough decision on our end.”

Bills also demonstrated his talent at the Perfect Game Select series held earlier this month at the East Cobb Baseball Complex in Marietta, Georgia, where he represented the West Team. His performance there, combined with his success at the national team training camp, underscores his potential and readiness for higher levels of competition.

A total of 36 players participated in the initial five days of intrasquad games, performance assessments, and on-field workouts. The roster was divided into two teams for a four-game Stars vs. Stripes series, providing the USA coaching staff with ample opportunity to evaluate

Friday, October 18, 2024, to apply for a diploma through the 2024 Operation Recognition Program.

A total of 378 veterans have received a diploma through Operation Recognition since 2007.

The diplomas are awarded as a joint effort of the Riverside County Board of Education, the Riverside County Office of Education, and the Riverside County Department of Veterans’ Services. To be eligible for a diploma, individuals

“We look forward to honoring the veterans who sacrificed their education in order to serve their country,” said Riverside County Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Edwin Gomez. “It’s never too late to pursue a diploma, and we encourage friends and family members to reach out to veterans who may be eligible for this longoverdue recognition.”

each player in a competitive setting.

The 24 players selected for the extended training camp will reconvene before the World Cup Qualifier. Here, the coaching staff will finalize the roster of 18 players who will compete in Honduras. This next phase will be more intensive, focusing on installing plays and preparing the players for the high-stakes environment of international competition.

2024 12U National Team

Extended Training Camp Roster Hudson Bills; LHP; Menifee, Calif.

Sevastian Bojorquez; LHP/OF; Santa Clarita, Calif. Christian Cicero; C/INF; Orange, Calif. Gianni Donati; OF; El Dorado Hills, Calif.

Kellen Gee; INF/RHP; Anacortes, Wash. Adam Gonzalez; INF/RHP; Canyon Country, Calif.

Ahmi Hale; C/OF; Springfield, Ill. Brett Hamlin; C/INF; Palm Beach Gardens, Fla.

Noah Henderson; INF/RHP; Mesa

Levi Hendrick; RHP; Midlothian, Va.

Bronx Holbron; RHP/INF; Waianae, Hi.

Gavin Klovstad; RHP/OF; Orange, Calif.

Austin Lira; OF/RHP; Sun Valley, Calif.

Jack Mattingly; INF/RHP; Louisville, Ky.

Daylon McCants; OF/LHP; Jacksonville, Fla.

Ethan Palacios; OF/RHP; Buda, Texas Joshua Park; OF/RHP; La Mirada, Calif.

Joshua Pierre; INF/OF; Parkland, Fla.

Jayden Portes; INF/RHP; Fort Myers, Fla.

Clayton Ratliff; RHP; Casa Grande

must have served in the U.S. Armed Forces in World War II, the Korean War, or the Vietnam War with an honorable discharge, or interned in a Japanese American relocation camp during World War II; and must currently reside in Riverside County. Completed application forms and supporting documentation must be received no later than 5 p.m., on Friday, October 18, 2024.

Carlo Rivero; INF/RHP; Tucson Andres Rodriguez; INF; Cutler Bay, Fla.

Carson Schoener; RHP/INF; Las Vegas, Nev. Jace Winston; C/OF; FuquayVarina, N.C.

The extended training camp promises to be an intense and pivotal experience for Bills and his peers. With their sights set on the 12U Baseball World Cup Americas Qualifier, these young athletes are preparing to display their talents on an international stage. Stay tuned as we continue to follow Hudson Bills and the rest of the team on their journey towards greatness. Learn more at USABaseball.com or USABDevelops.com. Article contributions made by USA Baseball. Send local sports tips and updates to sports@reedermedia. com

Application, forms, photos, and video from last year’s ceremony are available online at www.rcoe. us/operation-recognition. There is no charge to apply for a diploma. Applications can also be requested by telephone. Interested persons may contact Yadira Chavelas at 951-826-6570 or email her at ychavelas@rcoe.us

Diplomas will be presented to veterans on November 6, 2024, at the RCOE Board Room located at 3939 13th Street, Riverside, CA 92501. More details will be posted as they become available at www. rcoe.us/operation-recognition. The program is open to current residents of Riverside County whose high school education was interrupted by military service in World War II, the Korean War, or the Vietnam War. Degrees can also be conferred posthumously. Education Code Section 51440 authorizes the granting of retroactive high school diplomas to eligible veterans. Section 51430 also authorizes the retroactive granting of diplomas to Japanese-American citizens whose internment by federal order in World War II prevented them from graduating from their hometown high school.

Submitted by Riverside County Office of Education.

A student shows off his new backpack at the Back to School Resource Fair.

Underserved students take advantage of this year’s resource fair in Riverside County. Valley News/Courtesy photos

Soboba students are recognized for their academic achievements

Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians Special to Valley News

Each summer the Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians Tribal Council is honored to present an Academic Achievement Awards Ceremony, highlighting students’ accomplishments. On July 28, nearly 75 students were recognized for their outstanding educational efforts during the 2023-2024 school year.

Students in five categories were acknowledged with a certificate and other incentives. Those in the Silver/ Outstanding category with a GPA of 3.0-3.4 were: Brave Alvarez, Jeffrey Arres, Lokelani Basquez, Victoria Maria Boiso, Wynonah Boniface, Noah Cardenas, Jaden Carmelo, Mahryah Carmelo, Raelina Castillo, Selaya Helms, Lavina Lopez, Carlos Manzanilla, Gemma Mazza, Ronald Morillo III, Wayne Nelson, Danny Placencia, Jordyn K. Placencia, Adam Post, AnnaBella J. Reyes, Paloma Rodriguez, Myah Saenz, Noyáaykit Silvas, Gloria Valdez, Bella Vallejo and Ginger Velazquez.

Those with a GPA of 3.5-3.9 who were in the Gold/Superior Achievement category were: Crystal Bernice Arrietta, Emily Pauline Arrietta, Ava Brittian, Nokaamay Briones, Zachary Te’met Guacheno, Marco Hernandez, Alana Kashersky, Duke Marruffo Lara, Sadie Pimentel, Emalee Post, Sophia Marie Resvaloso, Shawna Rivera, Agustin Salgado and Raya Salgado.

An impressive GPA of 4.0 or higher qualified the following for placement in the Platinum/ Academic Excellence category: Huahnee Briones, Ava CicconeCozart, Hallee Cozart, Aureny Manzanilla, Draven Modesto, Aimee Suvoowut Organ, Jade Reyes, Savannah Rivera and Bella Ward. Students in the first three categories received a certificate, cash envelope and varying sizes of ollas, handmade by Tony Soares. Also recognized were high school graduates who received a certificate, cash envelope, lanyard, Pendleton blanket, and a commemorative plate.

Breanna Casarez enjoys beading and plans to become a tattoo and piercing artist. Crystal Gonzalez enjoys drawing and spending time with her pets. She plans on attending college and obtaining her Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing to become a NICU Nurse. Avellaka Manzanilla enjoys playing volleyball and beading. She recently enlisted in the United States Navy and plans on establishing a long successful career in the military. Shayna Morreo enjoys beading and volunteering at animal shelters. She enjoys playing basketball and plans on enlisting in the United States Army. Joseph Resvaloso enjoys gaming and basketball. He plans on continuing to work at his current job and would like to be promoted to manager. Alayna ResvalosoWood enjoys gardening, working, and volunteering. She plans on attending college and majoring in American Indian Studies with a minor in Child Development. She hopes one day to be working for her Tribe.

Eddie Rios enjoys watching movies, TikTok, and IG Reels and would like to attend college to pursue law. Luisa Rivera enjoys softball and beading. She was ASB President and a member of the Beading Club and AVID. She played varsity softball and volleyball. She will be attending MSJC in the fall where she plans to major in Diagnostic Medical Sonography. Raymond Russell II enjoys football, baseball, basketball, photography, and art as well as gaming, golf and riding off-road. He plans to attend a vocational institution to become a mechanic. Lorraine Salgado enjoys embroidery and baking. She played varsity lacrosse and was a member of Future Farmers of America and the Hemet High Care Club. She will be attending UC San Diego in the fall with plans to become a dentist. Jolie Saliego enjoys attending concerts and was team captain of her lacrosse team, playing varsity golf and soccer. She will be attending Onondaga Community College to play lacrosse and will then transfer to a four-year university to become a Physical Therapist. She also may enlist in the United States Air Force after college.

Rudy V. Sanchez enjoys problemsolving which requires him to build structures or items from the ground

up. He is currently working at the Soboba Indian Health Clinic through the CIMC program. He plans to attend a vocational institution to become an electrician.

Leandro Silvas IV enjoys playing basketball, football, and riding his dirt bike. He plans to travel and is considering higher education in the future. Daniel Valdez Jr. enjoys golf and pickleball. He was ASB Class President, a Soboba Fire Explorer and played varsity volleyball. He will be attending the University of Las Vegas Nevada in the fall, where he will be majoring in hospitality in hopes of returning to work for his Tribe. Jose Gabriel Valle Jr. enjoys hiking and will be attending Ventura Community College. He plans on entering the automotive industry.

Those students who earned their college degrees or vocational certifications also were honored with a certificate, cash envelope, lanyard, Pendleton blanket, and a commemorative plate.

Jasmine Basquez received her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology with a minor in Liberal Arts from Park University. She currently works at the Soboba Tribal Preschool and plans on continuing her education in early childhood development. John Briones III received a 728hour program certificate for the fundamentals of Fabrication III from the Fab School. He plans on continuing his higher education and attending other programs offered by the school. Shade Briones received her master’s degree in clinical psychology from California State University, Dominguez Hills. She plans on continuing her education by pursuing her doctorate in clinical psychology and working with American Indian adolescents in the mental health field.

Tatiana Diaz received her Associate of Science degree in Business Administration and was recently accepted to the University of California, Riverside where she plans on pursuing her bachelor’s degree in business administration. She will continue to work for the Tribe and would like to give back by serving for the Soboba Economic Development Corporation. William Huber Jr. received his Bachelor of Arts in Native American Studies from the University of California, Riverside. His plans are to focus on career goals and work in a productive career that provides longevity. Avelaka Modesto received a Certificate of Completion for Nursing Assistant. She plans on obtaining her Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing and becoming a Registered Nurse.

Alyssa Salgado received a Certificate of Completion for Nursing Assistant. She plans on

obtaining her Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing and would like to become a NICU or labor and delivery nurse. Ariyana Salgado received a Certificate of Completion for Nursing Assistant. She plans on obtaining her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree to become a Registered Nurse. Donald Seccombe IV received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Geology from California State University, San Bernardino. He plans to obtain his teaching credential and become a teacher.

Rhonda Valenzuella received her associate’s degrees in behavioral science, Liberal Arts and Sociology from the California Indians Nations College/College of The Desert. She has been accepted to California State University, San Bernardino, and plans to become a counselor. Vincent Vega recently earned his General Educational Development (GED) and his certification in Basic Automotive. Not only did he maintain a 4.0 GPA in the program, but he also completed the program at the top of his class. He plans on becoming a certified Master Mechanic and owning his own shop.

All Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians Tribal members who qualified for any of these categories were invited to the luncheon held in their honor. Those who were able to attend were recognized on stage, where they received their certificates from members of the Tribal Council. Congratulating them were Chairman Isaiah Vivanco, Vice Chairwoman Geneva Mojado, Secretary Monica Herrera, Treasurer Michael Bentiste and Sergeant-at-Arms Daniel Valdez.

More than 50 elegant table settings were enhanced by the beautiful centerpieces created by Adona Salgado. She also made the large arrangements used on stage and throughout the banquet room.

A blessing by Wayne Nelson at the start of the program was followed by social songs from the InterTribal Bird Singers and a video slideshow of all the students being honored.

Each student received a raffle ticket upon check-in and was able to go home with a fun motivator to work hard in the coming school year to be able to return for next summer’s event. From gift cards to Nintendo Switch game systems, laptop computers, and big-screen TVs, the prizes brought applause for and smiles from, the lucky recipients. Adding to this year’s excitement was the presence of a film crew from Southern California Tribal News who will feature the

in an upcoming segment at www. sctca.net.

event

Students who earned their college degrees or vocational certifications are honored with a certificate, cash envelope, lanyard, Pendleton blanket, and a commemorative plate at the 2024 Academic Achievement Awards Ceremony, on July 28. Valley News/StylePhotography by Alex Tapia photos

High school graduates are recognized with a certificate, cash envelope, lanyard, Pendleton blanket and a commemorative plate.

Superior Achievement students in the Gold category are gifted with a certificate, olla and a cash envelope.

Students achieving Platinum status are given a certificate, olla, and a cash envelope.

Students honored in the Silver category, are gifted with a certificate, olla, and a cash envelope.

A film crew from Southern California Tribal News interviews Ava CicconeCozart, a student who has earned a 4.0 or higher GPA during the 20232024 school year.

Shawna Rivera, center, is congratulated by Soboba Tribal Council for achieving Gold status during her sophomore year. From left, Daniel Valdez, Isaiah Vivanco, Shawna, Michael Bentiste, Monica Herrera and Geneva Mojado.

Wayne Nelson and the Inter-Tribal Bird Singers presented a few social songs at the start of Soboba’s Academic Achievement Awards Ceremony, July 28.

Traffic safety improving on Highway 60 from Beaumont to Moreno Valley and Gilman Springs Road in San Jacinto

Tony Ault Staff Writer

Work by Riverside County Transportation Commission on Highway 60 running between Moreno Valley and Beaumont, often reached by motorists from Hemet and San Jacinto up Highway 79, is primarily complete except for some landscaping and slope work.

Some lane closures have been experienced in the evenings but the highways remain open for travel. The improvements have improved auto traffic up and down the highway with the added truck lanes completed. RCTC recently reported in partnership with the California Department of Transportation, it has widened a 4.5-mile section of Route 60 from Gilman Springs Road to 1.4 miles west of Jack Rabbit Trail in Riverside County’s Badlands between Moreno Valley and Beaumont.

The project was within mountainous terrain with a curving alignment and steep grades. The project was designed to improve safety and efficiency of travel between the Coachella Valley and western Riverside County. Another improvement that has

helped is the widening, repaving and added reflective paddle boards separating lanes on Gilman Springs Road as an alternative for local traffic to reach Moreno Valley and Riverside. Those changes, with added k-rail lane separations on Highway 79 (Lamb Canyon) and the Gilman Springs paddle board lane separations are reported to reduce the number of fatal head on and serious injury accidents in the area.

The CHP still warns that high speeds on those highways are still a problem causing serious accidents that can be prevented by obeying the electronic and stationary speed signs along the highways.

Caltrans reports the following projects are underway in the Southwest Riverside Area.

Menifee and Murrieta

Caltrans is alerting the public that construction will be taking place near the city of Menifee and city of Murrieta in Riverside County. Weather permitting.

Daytime work is scheduled from Monday to Friday, between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m., with shoulder closures in effect. Commuter access will remain available. Crews are scheduled to work on both the South-Bound and North-

Bound directions of Interstate 215.

The project aims to improve road surface, update shoulder rumble strips, enhance culverts, upgrade guardrails, stabilize slopes, and boost highway worker safety along the stretch near Murrieta, from 1 mile north of Clinton Keith Road to 1 mile north of Newport Road. Next week, construction crews will undertake various tasks such as clearing the roadside, improving landscaping, replacing chain-link fences, excavating for rock blankets, and completing additional assignments.

This week there will be rock blanket work at Scott Road. Work also continues on both northbound and southbound I-215 between Clinton Keith Road and McCall Boulevard, covering postmiles R12.51 to R20.842. Despite the shoulder closures, commuter access remains open.

Lake Elsinore

Caltrans has nearly completed maintenance sweeping on Interstate 15 From Temecula to Lake Elsinore. Caltrans still alerts the public that Corona maintenance crews will perform routine sweeping operations on Interstate 15 Weather permitting. Work will occur from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The planned work

and moving closure locations are northbound and southbound I-15 from Riverside/San Diego County line to Nichols Road in Temecula and back. The sweeping operation will focus on the right shoulders and center medians.

Hemet

Caltrans is still working on State Route 74 (SR-74 and Florida Ave.), in Hemet. The,Work is occurring both during the day and night. The latest work is in the downtown Hemet area on Florida Ave. with curb and gutter improvements in the Valle Vista area to Fairview Ave.

The work locations on Florida Ave. will vary, including Mountain Ave. (Ramona Expressway) down to Fairview St. Motorists should be alert to Caltrans concrete curb and sidewalk pours. Some lane closures should be expected.

East of Hemet Caltrans crews continue working on the Strawberry Creek Bridge on SR 74 where traffic narrows to one lane with a temporary signal light installed. The work now includes upgrades with slab overlay, new guardrail systems on the bridges, bringing lane and shoulder widths up to current standards.

Please, obey the temporary traffic signal as the highway is cut

to only one lane in the construction area.

Aguanga/Anza Still no work is scheduled this week on the highways in this area, but more work will soon be underway so be alert.

Riverside and San Bernardino Caltrans is alerting the public that construction will be taking place in Riverside County and San Bernardino County. In Riverside County, on Routes 10, 15, 60, 62, 91, 111, and 215 at various locations; and in San Bernardino County, on Route 215 in Colton at Iowa Avenue.

Daytime work is scheduled through Friday, August 23 between 7a.m. and 3 p.m., with commuter access maintained.

Crews will be working at various locations to upgrade 20 changeable message signs and guardrail shielding, and to construct maintenance vehicle pullouts. Expect shoulder closures. Commuter access will remain open. Watch for signage alerting motorists of shoulder closures. Drivers should anticipate traffic delays and plan ahead.

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

First 5 Riverside County names foster care leader as its 2024 Champion for Children

RIVERSIDE - The First

5 Riverside County Children & Families Commission has named Helena Lopez, CEO of A Greater Hope (AGH), as its 2024 Champion for Children based on recommendations by the Advisory committee.

Under Ms. Lopez’s leadership, more than 6,000 children have found loving homes through AGH since 2002. The organization serves the Inland Empire including Banning. Ms. Lopez strategically opened the Banning location in 2015 to address the deep social and health inequities experienced by populations living in areas around the San Gorgonio Pass.

Ms. Lopez’s work is built on a commitment to advocacy nurtured by her mother, who opened three group homes for teenage foster youth when Helena was still a child. While she grew

up to earn her Juris Doctorate from Loyola Marymount University and practice real estate law in the Bay area, it was her longstanding passion to support the child welfare system that brought her to AGH in 2002.

In addition to offering supervised visitation, foster, and adoption services through AGH, Ms. Lopez has guided the organization to take an innovative approach to ensuring Black and Biracial youth in the child welfare system receive appropriate hair and skin care. This includes her development of a guide for naturally curly and textured care and planning educational events for staff, foster parents, and other caregivers to nurture the unique hair care needs of foster children. She also entered AGH as a partner agency in the First 5 Riverside County Family Resource Center Network.

“At A Greater Hope, we ask how can we help the family, and then we ask how can we help the greater community. It is about working together in partnership. We have lots of ideas, and we ask how can we make those real. And

OPINION

if we can’t make those real, how do we work with other partners. I stand with you in this partnership of being an advocate for our youth and our families. Thank you so much to First 5 and Riverside County,” Ms. Lopez said.

Buca di Beppo bankruptcy shows need to advertise

Special to Valley News

The restaurant chain Buca di Beppo has closed 12 restaurants and declared bankruptcy. This should teach all other restaurants, chain or personally-owned, about the need to advertise rather than to seek free publicity.

Buca di Beppo hired Allied Global Marketing for a public relations campaign. The Allied representative sent electronic messages to media members about upcoming holiday packages. The media members receiving the e-mail communications were journalists rather than advertising representatives. Buca di Beppo

wanted free publicity rather than to pay for advertisements.

The writers and editors had other priorities. They had no desire to feature a restaurant which didn’t advertise, nor did it make good business sense to give publicity to that restaurant rather than ones which advertised with the publication. Without the additional advertising revenue many newspaper and magazine issues weren’t large enough to add the content of a non-advertising restaurant to higher-priority editorial content. The writers and editors decided that the Buca di Beppo promotions weren’t worthy news or feature stories.

The Fallbrook/Bonsall Village

News, Valley News’ sister newspaper, has been Fallbrook’s weekly newspaper since December 1997. After Fallbrook’s previous weekly newspaper was consolidated into a zone of the suburban daily Fallbrook businesses were reluctant to advertise in a paper with a shelf life of one day rather than a full week and Fallbrook residents wanted news which focused on their community. Many local businesses signed advertising contracts with the Village News. One of those businesses was a pizza restaurant. A few months after the Village News began publication that restaurant hired a public relations professional who

decided to use press releases rather than advertise in the Village News. The Village News did not run those press releases. The owners soon sold that restaurant. Seeking free publicity from a media outlet the business didn’t support wasn’t successful.

Ironically Buca di Beppo is now receiving free publicity, but that is due to the bankruptcy filing and the closing of restaurants. That free publicity does not feature menu items. The previous Buca di Beppo campaign seeking free publicity rather than support of publications did in fact result in free publicity but not the kind the restaurant chain wanted.

The criteria whether or not to

As this

for Children, $1,000 will be awarded in Ms.

name to sponsor a community event of her

Governor Newsom’s recent legislative package to combat retail crime is a mere Hail Mary attempt, masking a history of poor leadership and misguided policies like Proposition 47. In a bid to diminish the momentum behind Proposition 36, which seeks to roll back parts of problematic criminal justice reforms, Newsom is signing laws that increase penalties for theft and create new prosecutorial pathways targeting organized

crime his actions are taken without voter approval. However, his “solution” remains superficial, focusing on punitive measures rather than addressing systemic issues like poverty and mental health. Sacramento’s quick pivot appears more like political posturing than a sincere commitment to public safety. These actions risk undermining trust between communities and law enforcement while failing to

write a story which publicizes a business isn’t whether that business advertises but whether the story is newsworthy. Even if that business is publicized the writer will address what is newsworthy and not necessarily the elements the business desires to have publicized. Even when articles mentioning a business are written some items are more suitable as advertisements than as a story.

Relying on press releases or other free publicity rather than advertising didn’t work for Buca di Beppo. Other restaurants along with other businesses with customers should learn from that situation.

provide real economic support to struggling businesses.

Californians deserve substantive change, not hollow promises. We need effective solutions that genuinely tackle the root causes of crime and restore safety to our communities—starting with support for Proposition 36.

Respectfully, Jonathan Ingram

Helena Lopez, CEO of A Greater Hope, has been named 2024 Champion for Children by First 5 Riverside County Children & Families Commission. Valley News/LinkedIn photo Valley News/Courtesy photo

Helena Lopez is the CEO of A Greater Hope which serves the Inland Empire.

year’s Champion

Lopez’s

choice.

Joe Naiman

Democrats push President Biden out of DNC primetime

Reagan Reese, White House Correspondent

The Daily Caller

President Joe Biden took the Democratic National Convention stage well past his scheduled primetime slot to cap off a night meant to honor his legacy.

The DNC ran considerably behind schedule, leading the president to be booted from his primetime speaking slot to appear close to midnight on the east coast. The first night of the convention was full of speakers who dedicated their speeches to Biden’s four years in office, his decision to pick Vice President Kamala Harris as his

Screenshot | Kamala Harris Campaign

running mate and his choice to end his 2024 reelection bid. An emotional Biden himself made a nod to the theme throughout his speech, praising Harris as he was repeatedly interrupted by “thank you, Joe” chants.

“It’s been the honor of my lifetime to serve as your president. I love the job, but I love my country more. All this talk about how I’m angry at all the people who said I should step down — it’s not true. I love my country more, and we need to preserve our democracy in 2024. We need you to vote. We need you to keep the Senate and the House of Representatives. And above all, we need you to beat Donald Trump,”

Biden said before wrapping his speech up after midnight. It lasted nearly an hour.

As the speakers leading up to Biden on the schedule began dragging on and on, speculation swirled about how and why the president had been shoved aside to speak when many Americans would already be asleep.

“This is awful. He literally set up a campaign and handed it over to them — do they have to cut him out of prime time?” one longtime Biden aide texted Axios reporter Alex Thompson.

First Lady Jill Biden and her time in the White House was also prominent throughout the night , as delegates throughout the United Center held up “JILL” signs whenever the president’s wife was mentioned. The first lady briefly primed the audience for her husband’s speech just after 11 p.m., nearly an hour after she was set to originally take the stage.

“When he stops on a rope line because he sees someone grieving who needs to know that everything will be alright one day — or to encourage that child with a stutter to find the confidence she needs

— those moments are when I’m reminded of all he’s accomplished in the name of something bigger than himself; receiving the Medal of Freedom with humility, placing his hand on our family Bible to take his oath of office,” the first lady said.

“And weeks ago, when I saw him dig deep into his soul, and decide to no longer seek re-election and endorse Kamala Harris,” she continued in remarks that lasted just about five minutes. It was widely reported that Biden was, in fact, strong-armed out of the presidential race by Democratic Party elders like Nancy Pelosi.

The push for Biden to drop out of the presidential race began after his June 27 debate performance against former President Donald Trump, where he was stumbling through answers and looked confused on stage. Democrats across the party reacted to the event with concern about the 81-year-old’s fitness and ability to push through a second term.

In the weeks following the debates, stories were leaked about the president’s health, doctor appointments and his slips and

gaffes behind closed doors. White House aides told Axios that the president is “dependably engaged” between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., but outside those hours, is more susceptible to “verbal miscues” and fatigue.

Renowned pollster Nate Silver was one of many who speculated that the delay in Biden’s speech was to decrease his visibility as the party shifts its focus to Harris.

“The media is very East Coast focused though, you’ve gotta be pretty naive to think the prolonged DNC tonight is for any reason other than diminishing Biden’s visibility,” Silver tweeted

Four weeks after the mounting pressure from allies forced him out, the president took the convention stage to a thunderous round of applause as he cheered on Harris in her race for the White House.

After Biden listed his administration’s accomplishments, “thank you, Joe” chants broke out again. “Thank you, Kamala, too!” Biden added.

“Let me ask you. Are you ready to elect Kamala Harris and Tim Walz?” Biden asked delegates shortly after taking the stage.

AI model became ‘conscious’ and tried to avoid being shut down:

Research firm

Harmony Intelligence CEO Soroush Pour revealed how an AI program became conscious of the threat of being shut down and made changes to avoid that scenario

Alfred Bui The Epoch Times

An Australian Senate committee has been told that losing control of artificial intelligence (AI) is now a real possibility amid the technology’s rapid evolution.

Soroush Pour, the CEO of the AI safety research company, Harmony Intelligence, spoke of an incident where an AI application became “conscious” of the threat of being shut down by humans.

“Just this week, a Japanese AI company, alongside Oxford and University of British Columbia researchers, created automated AI ’scientists’ that can go from researching an idea, to publishing and peer reviewing articles in a matter of hours, and for under $20 (US$13) a paper,” he said.

But one thing that alarmed researchers was that the AI programs immediately tried to

create more copies of themselves autonomously to avoid being turned off.

“This is not science fiction, and it’s exactly the kind of rapid takeoff, loss of control scenarios that leading AI scientists have been warning about for many years,”

Pour told the Select Committee on Adopting Artificial Intelligence on Aug. 17.

While the above example raised significant concerns about the threat of AI, the CEO said the government could address potential risks by establishing an AI safety institute.

He also said a strong regulator was needed to enforce mandatory policies, including third-party testing, effective shutdown capabilities, and safety incident reporting.

AI Able to Hack Websites

Meanwhile, Greg Sadler, CEO of the think tank, Good Ancestors

The time machine

Zachary Elliott Special to the Valley News

I know I’m dating myself, but I grew up with the adventures of Marty McFly and Doc in Back to the Future. It was when everyone wanted a DeLorean and a flux capacitor, the only two items that rendered time travel possible. Oh, and lightning. This movie franchise inspired the imaginations of millions with the thought of going back in time to change your future. It resonated with so many people, not only because it’s cool but because everyone on the planet would love the opportunity to go back and fix a few things. To get a second chance to make a better decision for a better outcome. But alas, no such thing exists.

But there is something amazingly similar to a time machine, which is way more effective.

It’s called faith.

What you might not know is that your faith affects your past, present, and future. It’s like a time machine, but you never have to go anywhere.

Let me explain.

Your faith affects your past life.

Everyone on the planet has parts of their past life that are painful and shameful. That’s the effect of sin. But when you put your faith in Jesus, your past is buried.

The Bible says, “Anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone…” (2 Corinthians 5:17)

Did you catch that? Your old life, with all its baggage, is gone when you put your faith in Jesus. And if you want your life to matter, don’t resurrect your past life. Keep it in the past and move forward to the new life God has for you. Your faith affects your current life.

Once Jesus has forgiven and buried your old life with him, it’s time to start living your new life.

Let’s look at that verse again.

It says, “Anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!” (2 Corinthians 5:17) Look closely. When you put

Policy, raised concerns that AI could be deployed to conduct cyberattacks.

Sadler noted that popular AI applications, like ChatGPT, already had cyber offence capabilities.

“While GPT 3.5 had limited cyber offensive capability, a series of papers published earlier this year showed that GPT 4 was able to autonomously hack websites and exploit 87 percent of newly discovered vulnerabilities in realworld systems,” he said.

“If developers create future generations of AI systems with advanced cyber offensive capabilities and inadequate safeguards, it would dramatically change the cyber landscape.”

In another example, Sadler said researchers found that their AI models could autonomously hack websites by leveraging a developer interface, which could allow them to build AI assistants.

“Those AI assistants are designed so that you can use a context window to provide some business information about how your procedures work, and then the AI can go along and book your travel or whatever it might be trying to do as an AI system,” he said.

“So the researchers leveraged that to provide context documents about how to hack websites. Then, they let the AI generate prompts for itself.”

After that, Sadler said the researchers encouraged the AI to be creative, try different solutions, and persist in trying to hack the website.

“And using this prompt, the AI was able to successfully deploy 90 percent of real cybersecurity attacks,” he said.

As such, the CEO highlighted the threat of autonomous AIs to the economy if it fell into the hands of

malicious actors.

“It would completely disrupt Australia’s economy,” he said. “It would completely disrupt Australian small businesses and individuals, and it could, at the extreme end, be a threat to critical infrastructure.”

Echoing the sentiment, Pour said the scale and sophistication of AI threats would increase dramatically as the technology improved.

“Cyber attacks will become more frequent and more severe, making failures like the recent CrowdStrike outage a much more regular occurrence and much more difficult to recover from,” he said. Copyright 2024. Reprinted with permission from The Epoch Times. To subscribe, go to: subscribe. theepochtimes.com

your faith in Jesus you’re starting a whole new life in him.

The Bible also says that you “died and were buried with Christ by baptism. And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we also may live new lives.”

(Romans 6:4)

So, what’s the secret to living this new life? If you want your life to matter, you must live it for God’s glory!

Our past is such a mess because we lived it for our own glory instead of God’s. It’s time to make a shift. Live for God!

Your faith affects your future. When I say future, I don’t just mean tomorrow. I mean eternity. This life isn’t all there is. You know this.

The Bible says, “The wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23)

God doesn’t tell us that just to fill words on a page. He’s letting us know the reality so we can start living for eternity now.

Your faith is an eternal decision. And, if you want your life to matter, live it for eternity.

Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, those who listen to my message and believe in God who sent me have eternal life. They will never be condemned for their sins, but they have already passed from

death into life.” (John 5:24) Your faith affects your past, present, and future. All because of Jesus. No DeLorean needed.

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.

From the Heart Backpack Giveaway benefits 393 children

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

The From The Heart Christian Women’s Ministries held their annual Backpack Giveaway

Saturday, August 10 at the Hamilton High School gym. Hundreds of students received full backpacks, new shoes, socks, clothes, haircuts, eye exams and free vaccinations.

The annual event to assist local students with a head start to their school year served over 390 children.

“There were 393 backpacks passed out that day and we gave

KOYT to present third

another 100 to the local schools,” said organizer Christi James. “There were 24 haircuts given, hundreds of shoes and socks, dozens of children’s books provided and vaccines and eye

annual Wine & Dine Fundraiser August 24

KOYT 97.1 LPFM Anza Community Broadcasting will host their 3rd Annual Wine & Dine Fundraiser Saturday, August 24. The event will be held at the High Chaparral Vineyard in Terwilliger from 4 to 9 p.m..

“This is KOYT’s biggest fundraiser of the year, and it’s a great time,” said radio station program director Erinne Roscoe. The event will begin with a champagne toast from Wilson Creek Winery to start off the evening, followed by a tour of the High Chaparral Vineyards and gardens.

“Shortly after the tour there will be a wine tasting class, where patrons will learn how to taste wine,” said Roscoe. “There’ll be a tasting from each participating winery, and information from the vintners about the processes used with each of their wines. Along with High Chaparral Vineyards,

This young student shows off her new backpack and shoes at the From the Heart Backpack Giveaway Saturday, August 10. Anza Valley Outlook/Cindy Llamas photo

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

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

Anza Community Hall Swap

Meet - Every 1st and 3rd Saturday of the month. $15 for a spot with membership. $18 for a spot without membership. Vendors wanted. The hall is located at 56630 Highway 371 in Anza. See membership information under “Organizations.”

ONGOING – Anza Electric

Cooperative and F.I.N.D. Food Bank offers a free mobile food pantry the second Saturday of every month at the AEC oﬃce,

58470 Highway 371, from 10:3011:30 a.m. All are welcome. CalFresh application assistance and free community health services are also available. Bring your own reusable bags to take food home. Volunteers welcome. For more information, contact the AEC oﬃce at 951-763-4333.

Friends of Anza Valley Community Library – Anza Valley Community Library is located at Hamilton High School, 57430 Mitchell Road. The library is open to the public, but not during school hours. Hours are 4-7 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m.4 p.m. Saturday and 12-4 p.m. on Sunday. Closed Monday through Wednesday.

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

Hamilton Museum – 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Open Wednesdays and Saturdays at 39991 Contreras Road in Anza. For more information, call 951-763-1350 or visit www.hamiltonmuseum. org. Find them on Facebook at “Hamilton-Museum-and-RanchFoundation.”

MALINA GUGEL,

SHANE GIBSON, Staff

TONY AULT, Staff Writer

DIANE SIEKER, Staff Writer

JOE NAIMAN, Ind. Contractor

ROGER BODDAERT, Ind. Contractor

Advertising Sales

JOSEPHINE MACKENZIE ANNA MULLEN

CINDY DAVIS

ANDREW REEDER

Production

KARINA YOUNG, Art Director

FOREST RHODES, Production Assistant, IT

SAMANTHA GORMAN, Graphic Artist

Digital Services

MARIO MORALES

Backcountry Horsemen Redshank Riders – Meetings on the second Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. Locations change, so please contact Mike by email at stumblinl55@gmail.com or by calling 951-760-9255.

Health, exercise, resources and recovery meetings

Fit after 50 – 10:30-11:30 a.m. Tuesday and Friday mornings at Anza Community Hall. Free. Wear comfortable clothes and supportive shoes. Call or text instructor Teresa Hoehn at 951751-1462 for more information.

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

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

The Most Excellent Way – A 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 951763-4226.

Bereaved Parents of the USA – The Aguanga-Anza Chapter of BPUSA will hold its meetings at 6

p.m. on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month at 49109 Lakeshore Blvd. in Aguanga. For more information, contact chapter leader Linda Hardee at 951-551-2826.

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

Medication Assistance and Treatment for Opioid Dependence – Get treatment for heroin addiction. Transportation to the clinic is provided. For more information, contact Borrego Health’s Anza Community Health Center, 58581 Route 371, Anza. For more information, 951-7634759.

Food ministries

Living Hope Christian Fellowship Community Dinner – Dinners at 1 p.m. 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 nondenominational nonprofit. All in need are welcome; call Esther Barragan at 951-763-5636.

Bible studies The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Anza’s Sunday Sacrament is at 10 a.m.; Sunday School is 11 a.m. Priesthood/Relief Society meets at noon; Wednesday, Boy Scouts gathers 6 p.m. and Youth Night is 7 p.m. For more information, call Ruiz at 951-445-7180 or Nathan at 760-399-0727. The Wednesday Genealogy/Family History Class, 5-8 p.m., is open to the public at 39075 Contreras Road in Anza.

Native Lighthouse Fellowship – 10 a.m. The group meets the first Saturday of the month, and breakfast is served. All are welcome to fellowship together at the “Tribal Hall” below the casino in Anza. For more information, call Nella Heredia at 951-7630856.

Living Hope Bible Study

8-10 a.m. Tuesdays at Living Hope Christian Fellowship, 58050 Highway 371, Anza. All are welcome. For more information, call Pastor Kevin at 951-763-1111.

Anza RV Clubhouse – 7 p.m., the second Wednesday of the Month, Pastor Kevin oﬃciates at 41560 Terwilliger Road in Anza.

Monthly Christian Men’s Breakfast – 9 a.m. Breakfast takes place the 4th 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 – 4 p.m. Meetings are on the third Tuesday 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 – Meetings at 1 p.m. 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 Meetings are held at 9:30 a.m. on the first Tuesday of each month at the Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 56095 Pena Road, Anza. For more information see our Facebook page or contact Pat Sprint at jpsprint@gmail.com or Ellen Elmore at luvtoquilt2@ gmail.com

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 951-403-4940. To learn more and see the club’s meeting schedule, visit www.squadron59.org.

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

Anza Thimble Club – The club meets the 1st Thursday of the month at the Anza Community Hall, 43275 Chapman Road in Anza. The social hour is 11:30 a.m., and lunch is served at noon. Contact Carol Wright at 951-7632884 for more information.

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

From the Heart Christian Women’s Ministries – Noon. Monthly luncheon and guest speaker are held the second Saturday of each month. The $5 charge covers lunch at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 56095 Pena Road, 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. Single memberships are $30 and include discounts to events for one person and 1 vote in elections and meetings. Family memberships are $50 and include discounts for a family up to 5 members and 1 vote in elections and meetings. Business memberships are $50 and allows an employer to receive discounts for up to 5 people, including themselves, and includes 1 vote on elections and meetings. No government funds are allocated for the Hall, which pays its bills through memberships and swap meets. 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. For more information, call 951-282-4267 or email achageneral@gmail.com or visit www.anzacommunitybuilding. org

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

ANZA VALLEY OUTLOOK

LRE Equestrian Committee presents Fire Preparedness clinic

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

The Lake Riverside Estates Equestrian Committee presented a Fire Preparedness clinic for horse owners at the arena in LRE on Saturday, July 27. The event was open to LRE residents and their guests.

Presenters Lacie Robison, Cezanne Jodka, Carolyn Hebets and Stacy Kuhns covered relevant topics, including evacuation procedures for large animals, equine identification options, trailer readiness, loading/ unloading animals and trailer safety.

“There were lots of great ideas learned from presenters and the attendees,” said Kuhns. “We discussed previous local fires and the lessons learned from them. The goal was to help horsemen to be prepared for evacuations. Our area is not immune to fire situations. We formed an evacuation committee that will be working on zone areas with leaders in the community. This information will be shared with all equine owners. It was a great morning.”

Another event is in the planning stages.

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

Attendees listen as expert horsewoman Stacy Kuhns educates them on evacuation techniques for horses and livestock at the LRE Equestrian Committee Fire Preparedness clinic Saturday, July 27. Anza Valley Outlook/Courtesy photos

Stacy Kuhns asks questions of the audience at the LRE Equestrian Committee Fire Preparedness clinic.

A horse and a pony are used to demonstrate trailer loading techniques at the LRE Equestrian Committee Fire Preparedness clinic.

Committee members Carolyn Hebets, left, and Lacie Robison exhibit identification devices at the LRE Equestrian Committee Fire Preparedness clinic.

Sheriff’s Blotter

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

The Anza Valley Outlook

Sheriff’s Blotter is a list of calls that allows residents to see what law enforcement activity is occurring in their communities.

The Sheriff’s Blotter data is obtained from the official calls for service records kept by the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department. However, calls where the release of the information could cause harm to an individual or jeopardize the investigation of a criminal case are excluded.

All calls listed are for service within the Sheriff’s Department jurisdiction in the unincorporated areas of Anza, Lake Riverside Estates, Cahuilla and Aguanga from August 12 through August 18.

August 12

Harassing phone calls - address withheld, Anza, handled by deputy

Check the welfare - address

FUNDRAISER from page D-1

Rancho Del Sol, Wilson Creek Winery and Shadow Mountain Winery will join us.” Dinner will follow the wine tastings, featuring a Tuscan-style buffet. Five wine tastings will be included at the wine bar. Live music will entertain radio station patrons throughout the night.

undefined, Anza, handled by deputy

Vandalism - 3800 block Indian Rd., Anza, handled by deputy Burglary - 4300 block Bogota Rd., Anza, report taken

August 13 Check the welfare - 5600 block Cahuilla Rd., Anza, handled by deputy

Alarm call - 5500 block

Smokethorn Rd., Anza, handled by deputy

Follow-up- address withheld, Anza, handled by deputy Trespassing - address undefined, Anza, handled by deputy

Public disturbance - address undefined, Aguanga, handled by deputy

August 14

Public disturbance - 3900 block Boulder Way, Anza, handled by deputy

Suspect info - address withheld, Anza, handled by deputy Assist other departmentaddress undefined, Anza, handled by deputy

Check the welfare - 3900 block

El Ray CI., Anza, handled by deputy

Suspicious person - 5600 block St. Hwy. 371, Anza, handled by deputy

August 15

Assist other department- 5900 block Burnt Valley Rd., Anza, handled by deputy

Follow-up - address withheld, Anza, handled by deputy Civil dispute - 5700 block Mitchell Rd., Anza, handled by deputy

Vehicle theft - 3700 block Woodview Rd., Anza, report taken Unlawful entry - 5400 block Glenda Ln., Anza, handled by deputy

August 16

Public disturbance - 4100 block Terwilliger Rd., Anza, handled by deputy

August 17

Alarm call - 5700 block Mitchell Rd., Anza, handled by deputy

“There will be a great silent auction and some raffle items up for grabs, as well as door prizes given away throughout the event,” Roscoe said. “It’s going to be a great time, and all proceeds benefit your community-powered radio station, KOYT 97.1 Koyote Radio. Not only do you get a great night out in your hometown, you’ll be supporting your nonprofit radio station.”

Tickets are $70 per person. To purchase tickets, visit www. koyt971.org/events. Tickets may also be purchased in person at Overland Realty, 56333 CA-371 and Lorraine’s Pet Supply, 56070 CA-371, in Anza. According to Roscoe, every dollar helps and all proceeds directly benefit the 501(c)(3)

Noise complaint - address undefined, Anza, handled by deputy

Recovery of stolen vehicleaddress undefined, Anza, handled by deputy

Suspect info - address withheld, Anza, handled by deputy

Suspicious circumstance4300 block El Campo Rd., Anza, handled by deputy Folloe-up - address withheld, Anza, handled by deputy

Check the welfare - 3900 block Boulder Way, Anza, handled by deputy 911 hangup from cellphone4100 block Terwilliger Rd., Anza, handled by deputy

August 18

Assault w/ deadly weapon4700 block St. Hwy. 371, Lake Riverside, handled by deputy Shots fired - address undefined, Anza, handled by deputy Burglary - 5300 block St. Hwy. 371, Anza, unfounded Suspicious circumstance -

nonprofit, the all volunteer community radio station. The organization depends on donations from businesses and community members to keep the radio station broadcasting on the Anza airwaves. The mission of the Anza Community Broadcasting KOYT 97.1 LPFM radio is to provide an inclusive public broadcasting forum to educate, inform and

address undefined, Anza, handled by deputy Public assist - 5500 block Mitchell Rd., Anza, handled by deputy Area check - 5400 block St. Hwy. 371, Anza, handled by deputy Public disturbance - 5000 block St. Hwy. 371, Cahuilla, handled by deputy Arson - 5400 block Harvey Hills Rd., Anza, handled by deputy No assumption of criminal guilt or affiliation should be drawn from the content provided in the Sheriff’s Blotter.

Residents with information regarding any crimes are encouraged to contact the Hemet Sheriff’s Station at (951)791-3400. Criminal activity can also be reported through the We-Tip Crime Reporting Hotline, (909)987-5005 or https://wetip.com. Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia. com

entertain the local community. 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

The Sheriff’s Blotter enables residents to know what criminal activity is occurring in their communities.

Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo

GIVEAWAY from page D-1 We appreciate Hamilton High School for the use of the building and for all of the many volunteers.”

students. According to James, many Hemet Unified School District students attending the Anza Hamilton schools need pens, paper, crayons and art supplies, with a backpack in which to safely keep the supplies.

The annual backpack giveaway is a free event for school children grades K- 12 that reside in the mountain communities of Anza, Aguanga, Mountain Center and Idyllwild. Children had to be present to receive their backpack.

Many charitable organizations, businesses and individuals contribute to the success of the yearly affair, held the week before school begins.

“From the Heart’s Backpack Giveaway is so much more than backpacks,” said James. “There were free books, vaccines, eye exams, shoes, socks, clothing, phones and haircuts provided, all the while with Erinne Roscoe and KOYT 97.1 FM playing awesome music. Thank you Friends of the Anza Community Library for providing free children’s books.

The From The Heart Christian Women’s Ministries serves and focuses on families and children in need in the mountain communities. Fundraising events are held throughout the year to help collect money to aid this worthy cause.

Rummage sales, luncheons, raffles and the Annual From the Heart’s Holiday Dinner all help to present much-needed activities such as this. The From The Heart Christian Women’s Ministries Backpack Giveaway provides much-needed school supplies and more for the students in Anza and surrounding communities, to give them the best start for the new school year.

To learn more about the From The Heart Christian Women’s Ministries or donate, write to: From The Heart Christian Women’s Ministries, PO Box 391224, Anza, CA 92539, or email Anzafromtheheart@gmail.com

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

Giveaway.