Menifee’s Hudson Bills conquers gold medal quest with Team USA Baseball
CSU partners with Riverside County to launch first-ever direct admission pilot
RIVERSIDE – The California State University (CSU) has partnered with the Riverside County Office of Education to offer the first-ever direct admission pilot for the CSU system. Eligible students at every public high school in Riverside County will soon be offered direct admission to the CSU for the fall 2025 term, before they even apply.
Health
Palomar Health Medical Group and Graybill Medical Group reach new agreement
SAN DIEGO COUNTY – In previous news, it was announced that Graybill Medical Group would be ending its affiliation with Palomar Health Medical Group (PHMG), with Graybill ceasing to provide services to patients in the Murrieta, Temecula, Fallbrook, Vista, Oceanside, San Marcos, El Norte, 2nd Avenue Escondido and Valley Center offices effective Nov. 11.
see page B-6
Menifee’s annual State of the City address conducted at the MSJC HCN Bank Stadium
Tony Ault
Staff Writer
Menifee, the “Hometown of Heroes” was this year’s theme of Menifee Mayor Bill Zimmerman’s annual State of the City address taking place at the Mt. San Jacinto College Menifee campus on Thursday, Oct. 24. It was the second time the State of the City was presented in the college stadium and the 16th time such an address has taken place in one of California’s fastest growing cities, now the home of over 105,000 residents.
Zimmerman said at this year’s State of the City hosted by the Menifee Valley Chamber of Commerce at the MSJC HCN Bank Stadium, “This marks my final year as the mayor of Menifee and my last State of the City address. We do have a lot to celebrate tonight. The city continues to be one of the fastest growing cities in California. Why? It’s because people want to be here in our safe neighborhoods.
see STATE, page A-5
HEMET – The SAGE Society of Hemet invites the community to attend a special presentation on Operation SafeHouse, an organization dedicated to assisting runaway, homeless, and at-risk youth in Riverside County. The presentation will take place on Tuesday, Nov. 12, at 2 p.m. at the Ramona Room behind MillerJones Mortuary, with social time starting at 1:30 p.m. Operation SafeHouse provides critical services for youth ages 11-24 facing emergency situations. Through their 21-day program, they offer shelter, individual and
see SAGE, page A-2
in the
Menifee as Perris Fire Department ladder trucks fly a huge American flag. Valley News/Tony Ault photo
People gather at a VIP event
Menifee’s Hudson Bills was a key player in Team USA’s recent success. Valley News/USA Baseball courtesy photo
Keira Trujillo found safe in Henderson, Nevada
Julie Reeder Publisher
Keira Trujillo, the 16-year-old girl who had been missing and was the subject of a CHP Feather Alert, was located safe and taken into custody on Friday, Oct. 25, according to Tony Campbell from AC Investigations. Campbell reported that Trujillo was scheduled to be turned over to her mother, who lives in the Henderson area. Campbell had been assisting the immediate family in the search.
“Metro Police conducted a surprise check at the boyfriend’s residence, where a family member initially claimed she wasn’t there. However, the same individual later saw her inside the house and contacted the police saying, ‘she’s here,’” Campbell explained. “A detective then called the boyfriend’s mother, who was holding his phone, and asked if her son was with her. She said he was. After confirming this, the detective informed her that Keira was at the house, and the police detained her.”
On Thursday, October 17, she was reported as a runaway juvenile to the Valley Center Sheriff’s Substation. In addition to filing a missing person’s report with law enforcement, the family reached out to Tony Campbell of AC Investigations for assistance in finding Keira.
Surveillance video obtained by deputies showed Trujillo getting into a car on the Pala Indian Reservation. Her last reported sighting was in the Murrieta area in Riverside County, where deputies also found video footage of Trujillo in a store. Trujillo’s ultimate destination was believed to be Henderson, Nevada. She had previously run away from home and was eventually located in Las Vegas.
Her father, John Trujillo, said, “Keira, no matter what’s gone on, or whatever you’re going through, all you need to do is reach out, and we can fix whatever is going on. We love you, we miss you, and we just want you to come home safe where you belong. Please call home.”
The family, including Keira’s three aunts, were scouring the area in Murrieta with P.I. Campbell, where she was last seen. They had been passing out flyers, interviewing business owners, and checking video footage. They were able to find video surveillance footage of Keira in a second store.
“We were able to find people who had seen Keira in the area on the day she went missing and the following day and confirm it with video footage from multiple businesses,” said Campbell.
In addition to talking to local businesses, Campbell spent several hours speaking with the local transit authority and checking
video from the days in question, but with no results. “These things take many resources and hours. Not everything checks out or is ultimately useful, but it has to be done as part of the process of elimination,” Campbell explained.
Before Metro Police found Keira, Campbell said, “Keira is a smart girl. I’m sure we will find
her soon or she will reach out to her
Her aunt, Kristine Trujillo, added, “If somebody knows something, we just want them to say something. We just want to bring her home safe. We don’t care where she is—we’ll come and pick her up, no matter where she’s at. That’s all we want—for her to come home safe.”
The Sheriff’s Office notified the California Highway Patrol to issue a Feather Alert throughout the state after Trujillo went missing. A Feather Alert is a resource available to law enforcement agencies investigating the suspicious or unexplainable disappearance of an Indigenous woman or Indigenous person. The Feather Alert provides immediate information to the public to aid in the swift recovery of missing Indigenous persons.
“There were several agencies
involved, including the San Diego Sheriff’s Department detectives, the FBI, DOJ, CHP, and Murrieta Police Department, as well as all law enforcement agencies from here to Henderson, Nevada/Las Vegas,” said Campbell.
The San Diego Sheriff’s Department released a message confirming, “A missing teenager from the Pala Indian Reservation has been found safe.”
“On Friday, October 25, detectives from the Sheriff’s Family Protection Detail were able to officially confirm 16-year-old Keira Trujillo was found safe in Henderson, Nevada. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) has since lifted the Feather Alert that it issued for Trujillo on Friday, October 18.”
“The San Diego County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the public and the media for their assistance and cooperation.”
Temecula Historical Society to host annual luncheon meeting
Nov. 7 at Wilson Creek
TEMECULA - The Temecula Valley Historical Society has a special day planned for the 2024 annual meeting at Wilson Creek Winery at noon on Nov. 7. Guests will be greeted with a glass of sparkling wine and will enjoy a bountiful buffet luncheon while being serenaded by Tony Suraci, a well-loved Temecula musician. After hearing updates on the historical society activities, Paul Macarro and Lisa Woodward of the Pechanga Cultural Resources Department, will give a presentation on their Place Names Project presented by Paul Macarro and Lisa Woodward.
Paul Macarro, the Cultural Coordinator for the Cultural Resources Department for the Pechanga Band of Indians, is also a Tribal Member. For 20 years he has worked closely with many lead
agencies, including the County of Riverside and the City of Temecula, to preserve and protect cultural sites in the region. Part of Paul’s duties for the Department is the development and contribution to what is known as the Place Name Project, which consists of the plotting of named places and features within the Tribal Territory. As part of the Cultural Resource Team, Paul regularly meets with lead agency representatives, planners, and landowners to share this Tribal Knowledge to assist with the education about these places that are important to the Tribe. Lisa Woodward, is the Archivist in the Cultural Resources Department for the Pechanga Band of Indians. In her role as archivist, Lisa manages the photographic, archival documents, ethnographic field notes, and sound recordings
in the Pechanga repository. She is also actively involved in preparing detailed environmental and cultural impact reports related to Luiseño ethnography and archaeology. Lisa has worked for many years with the field notes of John Peabody Harrington, which is a large part of Pechanga’s Place Name Project and she works closely with Paul Macarro. Dr. Woodward earned her doctoral degree in Native American Studies from the University of California, Davis.
Members of the community are welcome to this event. The cost for members is $60 and nonmembers will pay $65.
To register, please go to https:// temecula-valley-historical-society. square.site or reach Lori Sappington at lorisappinton@gmail.com or 951-445-7496.
GREENE for Mayor 2024
As your 2024 Mayoral Candidate, I am COMMITTED to driving Menifee toward a sustainable, innovative future while preserving the peaceful, sunny charm that makes our city a serene place to call HOME. Menifee is a city of opportunity, diversity, growth and tranquility. I am OPEN to how together we can IMPLEMENT, PLAN AND DEVELOP this city in preparation of the already approved future projects of 2024-2025. There are many projects in the pipeline that have been planned for years. We are a growing city and we must grow with it.
• Business safety, incentives and an emergency fund.
• ADVOCATE Educational growth, building a high school within the Menifee Union School District and Teachers pay increase
• Youth Mental Health, empowerment and early job preparation programs
• Adding a Downtown environment, entertainment and more quality sit-down restaurants. (Urban Air indoor family adventure park.) (Youth Job availability)
• Hallmark Village of Sun City – Entertainment for the Seniors in the area
• Social Security Office and DMV to accommodate our residents
• 1% raise for Menifee Employees
• Support the Police Foundation
• Advocate for Veterans through programs such as HomeTeam who empower and educate individuals to focus on their special needs: Mental Health, VASH and Homeless Veterans to address unresolved child support issues.
• Senior Health and Safety
• Mental Health and Drug Treatment.
• Empower Nonprofits to assist in Human Services and Beds not sidewalks program
• Limit warehousing with the exception of manufacturing products that will be useful to our community and provide quality jobs and careers.
• Green Infrastructure and technology
I am NOT committed to any businesses, individuals with agendas or any other politicians to deliver any promises or gain endorsements. I am “Powered by the People”.
Keeping integrity and quality of life is essential to the Greene family and yours. Together “we” will build a FUTURE FORWARD Menifee that thrives in harmony with nature and nurtures a vibrant community.
I may not have the popularity, the big endorsements or held a prior political position yet I have applied myself by graduating from Citizens Academy and enrolling in the Business Academy with MPD attending 98% of the City Council meetings, a consistent Chamber of Commerce Ambassador and involved in my community. On November 5th, you have the CHANCE to make a CHOICE to make a CHANGE for a better Menifee. VOTE GREENE FOR MAYOR Campaign office:
Menifee police respond to report of a man with a gun
MENIFEE — Menifee Police Department received a report of an adult male in crisis near the 26800 block of Newport Road on Friday, Oct. 25, a little after midnight. Initial information indicated that an armed man was seen in the grassy area behind businesses at 26875 Newport Road. Officers promptly responded and located the individual, observing that he was armed with a handgun and posed a threat only to himself.
With support from the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department and the Murrieta Police Department, officers established a safety perimeter and initiated communication with the individual. Shortly after, a Sheriff’s Department helicopter arrived on the scene to provide aerial support, remaining on site until about 2:15 a.m. Our crisis
SAGE from page A-1
family counseling, life skills education, and support for families in crisis. In addition, their Main Street Transitional Living Program assists homeless young adults ages 18-21 in their journey to independent adulthood, while the Main S.T.A.Y. Program supports older homeless youth ages 18-24 in securing permanent housing. Over the past year, Operation SafeHouse served over 500 youth through its emergency shelter and housing services and reached an additional 5,000 through community intervention, outreach, and educational programs. All services are
negotiation team arrived at the scene and thanks to their efforts, the male was safely detained after several hours of dialogue.
Following an investigation, it was determined that the individual acted alone. He was taken for a medical evaluation, and criminal charges are pending.
Menifee PD would like to recognize all personnel involved for their professionalism and restraint during this high-risk and complex situation. With the invaluable support of our allied agencies, we were able to achieve a safe outcome for everyone involved. Due to the ongoing nature of the investigation, the individual’s identity will not be released at this time.
Submitted by Menifee Police Department.
opment Director for Operation SafeHouse, will be the guest speaker. With 22 years of experience in homeless youth services, Julie has been instrumental in developing several key programs, including the Anti-Human Trafficking Program, and has raised over $102 million in funding for the organization.
The public is welcome to attend this important presentation.
Miller-Jones Mortuary is located at 1501 W. Florida Avenue, in Hemet. Parking is in the rear. About the SAGE Society
The SAGE Society (Search for Adventure in Greater Education) of Hemet provides a forum for intellectually stimulating programs and activities, fostering engagement and learning for the community.
Keira caught on video in a store in Murrieta. Valley News/Courtesy photo
Keira’s aunts and PI Tony Campbell out scouring the neighborhood and checking video where she was last seen in Murrieta. Valley News/AC Investigations photo
family.”
The luncheon presentation will feature Paul Macarro, the Cultural Coordinator for the Pechanga Band of Indians Cultural Resources Department.
The other presenter is Lisa Woodward, the Archivist in the Pechanga Band of Indians Cultural Resources Department. Valley News/Courtesy photos
Soboba Vice-Chairwoman Geneva Mojado recognized in Vegas
Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians Special to Valley News
The Innovation Group, organizers of the Emerging Leaders of Gaming program, and Global Gaming Business magazine have announced the honorees of the Emerging Leaders of Gaming 40 Under 40, a program that recognizes professionals under the age of 40 already making significant impacts in the casino gaming industry.
Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians Vice Chairwoman Geneva Mojado was one of the Class of 2025 members who were celebrated during the Emerging Leaders of Gaming 40 Under 40 Networking Reception, in partnership with Global Gaming Expo, on Wednesday, Oct. 9 in Las Vegas.
“Being part of a group of elite professionals brings great honor not only to me but to my family,” Mojado said. “I want to be a role model to my two kids, Daniel and Gloria. Daniel is now at UNLV pursuing a degree in hospitality. He loves Las Vegas but even more so helping his Tribe. I told him, he too will be a 40 under 40 in the gaming industry someday. Gloria, who plans on being a teacher or pursuing a career in sports medicine, shows her love for our youth just as I do. And for the love of sports, especially softball. My two kids are following in my footsteps and have both carried leadership roles in their middle schools and high schools.”
A diverse cross-section of professionals, nominated to be recognized for their achievements within and for their dedication to the gaming industry, were chosen by a Selection Committee comprised of respected gaming leaders.
“T he latest class of honorees well reflects the modern gaming industry, with a record number of individuals already holding impressive, senior-level positions and a noticeable increase in professionals leading the critically important areas of compliance and government affairs,” said Michael Soll, president of The Innovation Group. Roger Gros, publisher of GGB, added, “The quality of this year’s Emerging Leaders class is really extraordinary. Their accomplishments at such a young age are an inspiration to all who strive for excellence in our industry.”
Mojado has attended G2E almost every year that she has served on Tribal Council. “The networking is amazing,” she said. “You get to see gaming from a larger perspective; globally. The Expo Hall is enormous; to actually stop at every
booth would take the three days it’s open.”
The event, held from Oct. 7-10 in Las Vegas, offered a Tribal Gaming track. Mojado had the opportunity to attend various education sessions such as Amplifying Tribal Influence in the 2024 Election and sessions on Class III Tribal-State Gaming Compacts.
“It was good to listen to and see our very own Soboba Casino Resort General Manager, Jason Cozart, as a speaker for ‘The Revenue and Player Trip Driving Power of In-Person Gifting,’” Mojado said.
“Scott Sirois, a previous GM at SCR, was also a speaker. A good continuity program definitely helps grow the business. Soboba prides themselves on their gifting program.”
She said they also attended various networking receptions hosted by some of their vendors, such as Imagine This, a casino continuity company Soboba has worked with for more than 10 years.
This year’s G2E convention attracted more than 25,000 people, with 117 countries, territories and regions represented. The future of gaming was shared through several topics. Sports betting is coming to California and there was discussion on how the California Tribes are coming together to work out legislation.
A new tribal sports betting initiative in California could be on the ballot as soon as 2026, but it is more likely to emerge in 2028, according to a key tribal leader. Speaking at the Global Gaming Expo on Oct. 8, James Siva, chairman of the California Nations Indian Gaming Association, said tribes are restarting discussions on the future of legal sports betting in the state.
During a panel on tribal sovereignty and sports betting, Siva emphasized that any initiative brought forward by the Tribes would likely include provisions for online casino gaming.
With over 100 Tribes involved in California’s gaming landscape, reaching a consensus on the specifics of the sports betting initiative will be a challenging process. A meeting is scheduled for later this month to begin discussions, but further meetings are expected.
“We have started to think outside the box... What’s going to come out of California will be new and unique,” Siva said.
At the Soboba Casino Resort, Mojado said they are currently working with Pro Forma Advisors consulting group to find the highest and best use for a new attraction
to SCR.
“We are excited to expand our economic opportunities,” she said. “Tribal Council, along with General Membership, have all the say and input in the economics engines that come along.”
Gaming is just one aspect of the many hats Mojado wears as an active member of Soboba’s Tribal Council. Since 2006, she served in the Tribal Council positions of treasurer and secretary; since 2020, she has been Vice Chairwoman. Her experience has given her great insight into what can be done for the betterment of her fellow Tribal members.
She had served on the Soboba Foundation Board for more than nine years and as Vice-Chair of the Soboba Economic Development Corporation for four years. She is currently the Chairwoman of Legacy Bancorp and serves on the Board of Directors as secretary for Legacy Bank which is 100% owned by the Soboba Band.
With her strong advocacy for education, she serves as the Chairwoman for the San Jacinto Unified School District Native American Parent Advisory Council and is a member of the board of directors for the Western Science Center in Hemet. Mojado was recently appointed to the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) on its Community Economic and Human Development Committee (CEHD).
Emerging Leaders of Gaming has established itself as the go-to network for young professionals assuming the next generation of leadership in gaming, entertainment, hospitality, food and beverage, tourism and leisure. It supports the growth and development of these rising stars on their path to success.
Global Gaming Business magazine, a division of Clarion Gaming, is the leading monthly gaming trade publication focusing on the international casino industry. Distributed to 14,000 of the industry’s most important executives around the world, as well as public officials, regulators, attorneys and Native American governments, GGB magazine is the casino industry’s complete source for business information.
The Innovation Group has long been recognized as the world’s most respected and sought-after research and advisory firm, specializing in the gaming, entertainment, hospitality and leisure industries. To date, its research and analyses have driven over $100 billion in investment decisions across more
than 80 countries and six continents. The Innovation Group’s accuracy and reliability is unparalleled, with its forecasts historically tracking within 5% of actual revenues across the most complex of gaming jurisdictions throughout the globe.
The Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians congratulated Mojado on her recognition by stating they are proud of her for being selected as part of the Emerging Leaders of Gaming 40 Under 40, Class of 2025. “Her vision and dedication have helped the Soboba Casino Resort achieve many of its successful
goals,” they said.
Soboba Casino Resort offers an intern program for Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians Tribal Members who are seeking a career in the gaming industry. Those who intern spend several weeks in each department of the casino.
“We are revamping our Tribal Management Program to help those who want to become a supervisor, manager or even Director; it’s still in the works,” Mojado said. “I’m the Council liaison to our Soboba Youth Council, hoping to inspire and guide them to be the future leaders of the Tribe.”
OVERPASS from page A-1
Office Chief of Caltrans District
8 Project Management, Bill Zimmerman, Mayor of the City of Menifee, and Kurt Wilson, Western Riverside Council of Governments (WRCOG) executive director. Sheikh said at the ceremony, “The project basically spotlights what accomplishments can be achieved with different partner collaborations. This is a real example of collaboration from the public, private entities, city, and the state. I look forward to working together on more projects. Let us continue to strive for better collaboration on these projects. I am really excited about the potential and look forward to working with you in the days to come.”
The funding for the Holland Road traffic improvement project came from the American Rescue Project Fund (ARPA), the WRCOG, and the city’s Measure DD Quality of Life one-cent sales tax measure. Mayor Zimmerman said, “This is a day to celebrate…anytime we are reducing traffic congestion and making improvements, it is a reason to celebrate.” He mentioned that Holland Road is a “local road, not a commuter road like Newport and Scott roads. It is going to be for us; for the college (MSJC); for people who want to shop, to work and reduce their day’s timing… It’s a wonderful thing for all of us.”
Each city council member thanked individuals from city, county, state and federal governments who helped bring the project to life.
WRCOG’s Kurt Wilson said, “The money that comes to this
project, $11.2 from WRCOG and TUMF (Transportation Uniform Mitigation Fee) programs, is money that came from the folks and neighbors here. We work together and we get things done and are better off for everybody. Hats off to the city and everyone in this project.” He called attention and thanked those who contributed to the project including city staff Nick Fidler, Carlos Geronimo, City Manager Armando Villa and others.
Following the comments, the crowd gathered in the middle of the overpass for the official ribbon cutting ceremony under a huge American flag hung with fire department ladder trucks from Menifee and Perris. The Paloma Valley High School Navy Junior R.O.T.C, Hybrid Team of cadets put on a highly coordinated military rifle display before the crowd.
Dignitaries that lined up behind the ribbon before it was cut included Mayor Zimmerman, Caltrans representative Shiekh, State Senator Kelly Seyarto, WRCOG Executive Director Kurt Wilson, Menifee councilmembers Ricky Estrada, Lesa Sobek and Dean Deines, Director of Public Works Nick Fidler, CIP Principal Engineer Carlos Geronimo, Menifee City Manager Armando Villa, and other engineers and contractors. Once the ribbon was cut, some climbed into classic cars from the Sun City CruiZers club to take the first official motor crossing of the Holland Road Overpass to Haun Road, with flags flying and cheers from the growing crowd.
Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com.
Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians Vice Chairwoman Geneva Mojado, one of the Emerging Leaders of Gaming 40 Under 40, Class of 2025 members, is honored in Las Vegas. Valley News/Daniel Valdez Jr. photo
From left, Menifee’s CIP Principal Engineer Carlos Geranimo, Director of Public Works/Engineering Nick Fidler and City Manager Armando Villa are all smiles as they watch the official opening of the $35 million Holland Road Overpass bridge they were charged with helping to complete. Valley News/Tony Ault photo
Voting by mail has begun in California
Valley News Staff
Mail-in ballots can still be mailed in for the Nov. 5 General Election. Ballots must be postmarked by Nov. 5 or can also be dropped off at designated polling places by the same date.
The 14-day deadline has passed for those wishing to register for the Nov. 5 General Election and now, if you are registered to vote, it is time to vote either by mail by voting day or in person at your designated polling place.
In California, early voting began with mail in ballots sent to every registered voter in the state. If you did not receive one, call the Riverside County Registrar’s office at 951-486-7200 for more information Monday through Friday. The office is located at 2720 Gateway Drive in Riverside.
If a registered voter has already filled out his or her ballot, it can now be placed in the envelope sent with the ballot and mailed for no charge before November 5. On voting day the filled out ballots may be dropped off at your designated polling place.
The ballots will have your choice of candidates for elected federal, state and elected offices. Some cities have their municipal elections at the same time for their
open elective offices, at large or for specific offices and for local propositions, initiatives and tax measures.
Recently, Murrieta City Clerk Cristal McDonald outlined her and the registered voters’ responsibilities in voting in the Nov. 5 general and municipal elections. Her comments hold for most city clerks in the Southwest Riverside County area.
She explained potential voters aged 16 and 17 in California were able to register to vote and be eligible to actually vote on their 18th birthday while adult voters had until October 21 to register. Voting in person at their designated precincts began on October 26 if they wished. They have through Nov. 5 to make or mail in their voting choices.
The California Attorney General’s office gave answers to some questions voters may have for this election.
Am I already registered to vote?
To find out if you are currently registered to vote, please refer to My Voter Status at www. sos.ca.gov/elections/registrationstatus
I did not vote in the last election. Do I need to re-register to vote?
In general, you do not need to re-
register because you are registered to vote for as long as you remain at the same address. However, there are cases in which voter registration can be canceled if a voter has not voted in several consecutive general elections.
What should I do if I have just moved within California?
Your voter registration record should always reflect your current residence. If your move is permanent, you can update your California residence address by reregistering online at registertovote. ca.gov or by submitting a paper voter registration application.
You can also send a signed letter to your current county elections official, informing them of your move and providing them with your date of birth and current address, even if it is in a different county. However, if you have already updated your residence address at the Department of Motor Vehicles or the U.S. Postal Service, your registration will be automatically updated with your new address.
If your move is temporary, you can continue to use your prior permanent residence where you were registered to vote as your address for the purpose of voting.
What should I do if I change my name?
If you have legally changed your name, you must re-register to vote so that your voter record reflects your current name. The Secretary of State recommends that before you update your voter record with your current name, you first update your California driver license or identification card with DMV. More details at www.dmv. ca.gov/portal/dmv/dmv/dl.
If you are re-registering online and you have not updated your DMV record with your new name, select “decline” on the application when asked to use your DMV signature to register to vote. If you do not decline use of your DMV signature, your application will be rejected by your county elections official because your DMV signature for your prior name will not match your voter signature with your new name. After you decline to use your DMV signature, continue filling in your information. Print, sign, and mail the paper application to your county elections office.
What is the deadline to register to vote?
The deadline to register to vote is 15 days prior to Election Day, often called E-15. You must submit the voter registration application by midnight on the registration deadline day. A timestamp will
be attached to your online voter registration application. If you register to vote using a paper application, it must be postmarked or hand-delivered to your county elections office by E-15. After the registration deadline, in most elections any individual may conditionally register to vote and cast a provisional ballot by visiting their county elections official. For more information, please refer to Same Day Voter Registration at www.sos.ca.gov/elections/voterregistration/same-day-reg.
If I started to fill out the online voter registration application before midnight on E-15 but didn’t finish until after midnight, am I too late? Yes, you must submit the voter registration application online by midnight on the registration deadline day. However, in most elections you may go in person to your county elections office during the 14 days immediately following the registration deadline to conditionally register to vote and vote a provisional ballot. If you do not conditionally register to vote, your voter registration application will still be processed and, if it is approved, you will be able to vote in future elections.
From our roads and shopping destinations, to new and unique restaurant offerings, to our beautiful parks and open spaces. Menifee continues to enhance and improve our quality of life.”
With that, he praised the city team and introduced the members of the city council, Mayor Pro Tem Dean Deines, Council Member Ricky Estrada and Lesa Sobek. He could not introduce Council Member Bob Karwin who was not at the address that evening, but did so later in a video presentation of his District One.
He brought Mayor Pro Tem Deines to the speakers stand who brought the theme “City of Heroes” to life this year. Deines, an Army veteran himself, then joined Zimmerman in trading off the accomplishments in the community in the past years with videos from each of the four city districts.
“I am really excited to celebrate our Hometown of Heroes tonight,” said Deines. He then recognized the many individuals and groups who are considered those Hometown heroes including a six -year-old boy, Tanner, who saved his brother from drowning. Deines also honored veterans, saying, “Menifee is a town who cares about its veterans,” who are all seen as hometown heroes.
Deines mentioned the 4-year-old Menifee Police Department and its officers, saying they “Are doing a great job, making Menifee one of the safest cities in California.” Both Deines and Zimmerman continued to praise the city’s firefighters, medical workers, code enforcement and other public safety and city employees and organizations calling them “Hometown Heroes” as well.
Deines viewed the city’s schools, colleges and educators and students as outstanding in the city and said they are, “Helping to inspire our next generation of heroes.”
Zimmerman praised the local nonprofit and service clubs in the community like the Rotary Club, Women’s Club of Menifee, MilVet, and others. Deines pointed out the Menifee Valley Community Cupboard helps those in need, including families in crisis throughout the city.
Zimmermam reviewed the city’s latest Capital Improvement Programs that included a 5-year $700 million in infrastructure improvement programs plan and providing the city with a burgeoning reserve fund of 40% in the event of catastrophic events. He said the city was in a unique position in having no unfunded pension liabilities for its employees.
A vi deo was shown with the many highways and other accomplishments made in the city during the past year. Some included: New traffic signals at Menifee and Garbani roads, Antelope Road and the MSJC entrance, Murrieta Road and Sun City Blvd. Interior of Fire Station 68 with better crew quarters
• La Piedra Sports Park enhance-
ment
• E L Pierson parking lot
• Bell Mountain Road pedestrian improvements STATE from page A-1
• Bradley Road entrance at Palo-
ma Valley High School
• Romoland 3rd Street improvement
• Road resurfacing projects from Menifee Road to Holland Road; Murrieta Road and Salt Creek; Casa Blanca Community; Willow Community; and Audie Murphy Ranch slurry seal
The City adopted a complete street plan
Pedestrian crossing improvements across the city
The grand opening of the Holland Road Overpass Quail Valley Fire Station No. 5 nearing completion replacing the old station.
Public Works made over 48,000 construction inspections, 1,200 fleet orders and 2,000 field service work orders, and 78 improvement plans.
A comprehensive strategic plan was created for the next few years.
Zimmerman praised the efforts of the city to enhance its many social events. “There is never a shortage of things to do in Menifee,” said Zimmerman.
Each city council member gave the improvements and accomplishments in their four districts on videos.
In conclusion, Zimmerman on video encouraged everyone to be sure to cast their ballots in the upcoming November 5 General Election. “We are in good hands with those at city hall…I have full confidence that our city is going to continue to soar thanks to the hometown heroes we have celebrated tonight,” Zimmerman said.
He thanked the many residents, Scouts and children who unfurled a giant American flag on the stadium field during the event and the Heritage High School Band and the Menifee Valley Chamber of Commerce for making this year’s State of the City a success.
Jesse Simms of the Chamber and Vicky Carpenter, a member of the MSJC Board thanked all for coming to the special event that evening.
The event began with a VIP Taste of the City networking event in the front of the
Invocation
Honor Guard posted the colors. Spicer Consulting Group was the Platinum sponsor with Pulte Group, SRCAR, MSJC, FTL, AES, Lennar, Waste Management, and Howard Industrial Partners were the Gold Sponsors for the evening. Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com
stadium The
was given by Pastor Steve Lennertz from Eagle Ridge Church who actually gave the invocation to the first ever State of City 16 years ago. The Menifee Police Department
Menifee Valley Chamber of Commerce Board President Jesse Simms welcomes guests to the Menifee State of the City Address.
Valley News/Shane Gibson photos
Menifee police officers present the colors during the Menifee State of the Address.
Menifee Mayor Bill Zimmerman is applauded before presenting the Menifee State of the City Address.
A Clearer Picture of Lung Health
Area’s first to offer Ion® robotic bronchoscopy
Early detection is one of the most effective ways to improve lung cancer outcomes. To help catch the disease in its earliest stages, SOUTHWEST HEALTHCARE TEMECULA VALLEY HOSPITAL has become the first hospital in Southwest Riverside County to perform lung biopsies with the Intuitive® Ion® robotic-assisted bronchoscopy platform.
Combining its ultra-thin, ultra-maneuverable catheter and 4D imaging, Ion maps the constantly changing shape of the lung to pinpoint the lesion’s location with enhanced precision and efficiency.
By accessing previously unreachable parts of the lungs, pulmonologists are able to find cancerous cells sooner and can greatly improve patient outcomes.
To schedule a low-dose CT screening, speak to your primary care provider. For more details, visit SWHtemeculavalley.com/lung
EDUCATION
November 1 – 7, 2024
Lake Elsinore area students honored for September
Diane A. Rhodes Special to Valley News
The Lake Elsinore Valley Chamber of Commerce Student of the Month program, honoring students who make a difference in their schools and communities, had to reschedule it’s first ceremony of the new school year due to the recent Airport Fire that affected the area and closed schools for nearly a week. A luncheon to recognize those students was held at the Lakeside High School Lancer Round Table Café on Oct. 8. Lunch was prepared and served by members of the Lakeside Culinary Academy.
Kim Joseph Cousins, CEO of the Chamber, thanked all public safety personnel for keeping everyone safe as he welcomed guests to the event. Founded by Sally A. Myers, the nonprofit program acknowledges and honors college or trade school bound seniors for their character, love of learning and commitment to academics, in addition to participation in athletics, school activities and community service. It also commends those who have persevered through challenging life circumstances, all in a setting that honors God, country, family, community and free enterprise.
Large tote bags filled with gifts, certificates of recognition and much more donated by the program’s sponsors were given to the award recipients. Each student received a commemorative medallion and was invited to the podium to share their personal story, past challenges and future goals with a room full of supporters that included principals, teachers, peers and family members, as well as community and school district dignitaries.
Not
Ella
September’s students of the month are Elsinore High School’s Asher Coogan and Katelynn Klopp, Keith McCarthy Academy’s Widad Goldstein, Lakeside High School’s Ella Sheldon and Gabe Trias, Ortega High School’s
Gabriela Perez Figueroa and Temescal Canyon High School’s Cheyenne Greenberg and Lincoln Kingdon.
Elsinore High School
Asher Coogan was introduced by Principal Pauline Leavitt as a
talented musician who has been a successful member of the Academic Decathlon team. Asher hopes to attend MIT or UC, Santa Cruz to study physics, specifically quantum or particle physics. “I’ve always been interested in math-
ematics. I also love the philosophy behind it all; the fundamental parts of the universe and what makes up everything,” he said. “It’s a very interesting subject that has
see ELSINORE, page B-2
New school year’s first students of the month celebrated in Perris and Menifee
The Perris Valley Chamber of Commerce and the Menifee Valley Chamber of Commerce kicked off the 2024-2025 Student of the Month on Sept. 23. Students are nominated by their teachers and staff at their respective school sites and are chosen for their character, integrity, love of learning, ability to persevere and overcome challenging circumstances, community service, and how they make a difference on their high school campus.
September’s students and their families attended a breakfast sponsored by the Perris and Menifee Chambers of Commerce along with local businesses and organizations. Principals and teachers from each high school shared stories about the students and they each received certificates of recognition, numerous gifts, congratulations and encouragement from local, county, state and federal dignitaries.
Caleb Scott
Perris High School’s Student of the Month is Caleb Scott. Many students go through trials and difficulties throughout their life. However, in Caleb’s case what is unique is the maturity and grace he displays, especially for one so young. Caleb shared an obstacle he had to overcome was the passing of his father. Caleb chose hope over hopelessness and exuded that outlook on campus, which has not gone unnoticed. Perris High Principal on Assignment Jennifer Thomasian commented on Caleb’s outlook and how it affects campus life. “The thing that really strikes me about him and the way that he moves in the world is that any of us facing the things he has faced could choose to show up and be
Recipients of the Lake Elsinore Valley Chamber of Commerce Student of the Month award for September are, standing from left, Lincoln Kingdon, Asher Coogan and Gabe Trias; and seated from left, Gabriela Perez Figueroa, Cheyenne Greenberg, Katelynn Klopp and Widad Goldstein.
pictured:
Sheldon. Valley News/John P. Hess photo
Perris and Menifee Valley students of the month for September are, from left, front row, Caleb Scott, Jeremy Mallabo, Ariana Abrisz-Smith, Javon Major and Kaia Van Slyke. Standing, from left, SOM Program Founder Sally Myers, Congressman Mark Takano, Representative Britney Mayowa, Senator Richard Roth Representative Ricardo Guerrero, Perris City Clerk Nancy Salazar, Assemblyman Corey Jackson, Representative Jorge Zavala, Perris Mayor Michael Vargas, Assemblyman Bill Essayli, Representative Casey Deaver, Jerry Sepulveda with the Perris Valley Chamber of Commerce, Perris Union High School District Superintendent Jose Araux and Menifee Councilmember Bob Karwin with the Menifee Valley Chamber of Commerce. Valley News/Courtesy photo
EDUCATION
California State University partners with Riverside County to launch first-ever direct admission pilot
Approximately 12,000 county high school students will receive direct admission to the CSU for fall 2025 before submitting an application
RIVERSIDE – The California State University (CSU) has partnered with the Riverside County Office of Education to offer the first-ever direct admission pilot for the CSU system. Eligible students at every public high school in Riverside County will soon be offered direct admission to the CSU for the fall 2025 term, before they even apply.
Qualifying high school seniors in Riverside County—those on track to meet college preparatory courses (A-G requirements)—are being offered immediate, conditional admission to 10 CSU campuses by way of a brochure mailed to their home address. Students will then use the CaliforniaColleges.edu platform to select their preferred CSU campuses, with official acceptance letters to be sent directly from the universities.
“We are excited to provide a direct pathway to higher education for thousands of high school students across Riverside County,” said April Grommo, CSU assistant vice chancellor of Strategic Enrollment Management. “We want students to know that the door to college opportunity is open to them, and to help relieve some of the stress and uncertainty about applying for college. Riverside
ELSINORE from page B-1
a lot more gray area than you might think.” Asher has been in the band program all four years of high school and a member of the Academic Decathlon team for two. He joined the Equality for All club this year and serves as its treasurer.
“I think one of the most important things I learned is to talk to people and get involved,” he said, adding that doing this gave him a social sphere he would not have had otherwise. Teacher and Decathlon coach Ryan Klopp said, “Asher is the kind of student who learns not for a grade or to impress colleges but rather for the pursuit of knowledge and the experiences.”
Katelynn Klopp said all her teachers have inspired her love of English, leading her to pursue a career in creative writing. She is part of the varsity volleyball team, School Site Council, Academic Decathlon team and Yearbook.
“Through all of these, I have made so many connections,” Katelynn said. “One of my mottos to live by is to just treat people with kindness.” English teacher Dana Coogan has known Katelynn since she was in preschool and said they reconnected when she a freshman and Coogan was helping students with the speech portion of the Academic Decathlon competition.
“Her speech (about the environment and climate change) really told me what a compassionate person she had become,” Coogan said. “She was so young and had
STUDENTS from page B-1
angry and frustrated. But this young man comes in every morning and is just positive and joyful and spreads that character across our campus,” she said. With a 4.0 GPA, Caleb credits his family, teacher, and his faith in Jesus to help guide him through life’s experiences. Caleb will attend Mt. San Jacinto College and then transfer to Cal Baptist University majoring in History. He hopes to become a rapper/streamer for social media.
Jeremy Mallabo
Liberty High School’s Jeremy Mallabo is September’s Student of the Month. Jeremy is involved in many different facets at Liberty. He is on both the soccer and volleyball teams. He is also one of three ASB presidents and is a major player in planning various events on campus. With all that he has on his plate, Jeremy still maintains his high academics. Jeremy shared that he tends to thrive when actively involved. He shared that as a BISON, he is committed to representing Liberty with pride both on and off campus. “I help
County is an excellent location for this first-ever program for the CSU, as it is ethnically and economically representative of the diversity of California, and many of the students the CSU is so proud to serve.”
The 10 CSUs for direct admission in this pilot are: Channel Islands, Chico, East Bay, Humboldt, Maritime Academy, Monterey Bay, San Bernardino, San Marcos, Sonoma and Stanislaus. Riverside students may apply to other CSUs not on the direct admissions list. If a student applies to an impacted program or campus, additional criteria may be required for admission.
“We are grateful for this groundbreaking partnership with the CSU to expand access to a world-class college education for our diverse and talented students in Riverside County,” said Riverside County Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Edwin Gomez. “As one of the fastest growing regions in California, the need for college-educated professionals will continue to soar, and this partnership will remove barriers to higher education, welcoming more college-ready students to the CSU system through this innovative direct admission program.”
After direct-admitted students
such conviction. I was really impressed that she was not only doing this for the competition, but you could tell she had a personal stake in it and was willing to make personal sacrifices to help save the planet.” Now enrolled in her AP Literature class, Katelynn is also in her Mt. San Jacinto College dual enrollment English 101 class and Coogan said she feels privileged to be her teacher. Keith McCarthy Academy singled out Widad Goldstein as September’s honoree. Principal Peter Hopping said, “Widad is a positive peer example on campus. She excels academically and has a relentless commitment to her goals.” Widad wants to study science and nursing at college to become a travel nurse and eventually a neurosurgeon. “A valuable life lesson I have learned is to not let failure define you but to redirect you,” Widad said. “During my sophomore year I faced several challenges and setbacks in my academics. Instead of letting these academic failures discourage me, I sought support from my teachers and my counselor who provided me with guidance and encouragement. With their help I was able to turn my failures into opportunities for growth and improvement. This experience has taught me that setbacks are not the end but are rather a chance to learn and become way stronger.”
Her counselor, Franklin Fravel, shared that Widad is a member of the Lakeside culinary program, a
lead and implement school events, which create a safe and welcoming environment for the community,” he said. Jeremy’s ASB teacher Candace Carillo commented that Jeremy works hard in everything he does, and he does it with much grace and humility. “He has helped build Liberty into what it is today with the culture,” she said. Jeremy plans to take what he has learned and apply it as he attends UC Irvine majoring in either civil or mechanical engineering.
Ariana Abrisz-Smith
California Military Institute’s Student of the Month is Ariana Abrisz-Smith. As busy people go, Ariana is one of the busiest in the district, or at least at CMI. She is the 320th Battalion Commander and is president of multiple clubs including Interact and Rotary. In addition, she is manager for multiple sports teams. With all of this and taking multiple AP and dual enrollment courses, she is still able to maintain a 4.1 GPA. As an individual, Ariana is highly respected by her teachers, peers, and staff at CMI. Some of the accolades given by staff are that she is highly
submit their applications, they must continue to meet the A-G requirements and graduate from high school. Once receiving official acceptance from their university of choice, students must confirm their intent to enroll by the campus deadline and complete any
founding member of the school’s student council and started an art club. “Widad has made a lasting impact on our campus,” he said.
Lakeside High School
Ella Sheldon was not able to attend the event due to health issues, but Principal Jason Eldridge assured everyone that she will receive her gifts and be celebrated on campus. Gabe Trias was then introduced by Eldridge, who said the best way to describe Gabe is to say he is “authentic” and someone who is always able to adjust to his surroundings. He is on the school’s basketball and football teams and an active participant in his AVID and Advanced Placement classes. “He is very true to himself,” Eldridge said. Gabe plans to study engineering and business at college. “I’ve learned a few life lessons growing up; one is that mom is always right and second is that the effort you give defines who you are and how much you care, whether it’s in school, sports, relationships, jobs; it’s the little things that make a difference to people,” Gabe said. His teacher, Polly Jones, said the young man is a leader in the classroom, on the court and field, and among his peers.
Ortega High School chose to recognize Gabriela Perez Figueroa. Principal Greg Cleave said, “Most of the students I serve are students that have struggled in school and need a new start or a different opportunity but Gabriela is not one of those students.” After
organized, dedicated, and has a caring attitude. Principal Michael Dodson mentioned that Ariana’s positive personality, “can do” attitude, and positive leadership have greatly improved school morale. Ariana stated that she gleans from the support of her family to help her daily. She shared that she still struggles with the loss of her mother and is grateful for a strong support system. Ariana plans to attend UCLA and enter their music studies program as she does have a dream to become a singer.
Javon Major Javon Major is Paloma Valley High School’s September Student of the Month. Javon embodies Paloma’s ROAR principles of being Respectful, Ambitious, Optimistic, and Responsible, according to Principal Julie Blied. He is part of the varsity football and wrestling teams. Currently ranked number five in the state, he is described as an exceptional athlete and an exceptional young man. Coming from a military family, Javon has learned to adapt to multiple environments. A large part of that is the influence his dad
additional enrollment steps such as attending orientation, paying tuition fees, and providing final transcripts or other documentation. Students are also encouraged to apply for financial aid by submitting a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or
coming to America two years ago, she is proud to say she has As in all her classes and a GPA of 4.2.
“This school has made me get the best out of myself,” Gabriela said. “Arriving here opened many doors for me, but I had to sacrifice the life I had in Mexico where there was a lot of violence in the streets.”
Speaking in Spanish, she thanked several of her teachers, saying, “I want to thank you for always being with me. They were also my voice when I couldn’t communicate with any other teacher. I will always remember them and carry all their teachings with me.” Her English teacher, Lucia Ruvalcaba, said, “I was an English learner myself, so I have a soft spot for those that came to a new country, a new school and are thrown into a new world.”
Temescal Canyon High School Cheyenne Greenberg was described by Temescal Canyon Principal Joshua Hill as an active student who is a member of the school’s Health and Medical Careers Academy, ASB, National Honor Society and the Titan TV program. “I’ve wanted to become a nurse for as long as I can remember,” said Cheyenne, who wants to focus on women’s health. She said an important life lesson she has learned stems from the fact she has always been a busy person.
“I’ve never been one to sit down and take a break and I work best under stress,” she said. “But being involved with so many programs and leading so many people, I’ve had to learn to slow down because
has had in his life. Javon shared a bit of how his father has had an impact on him calling him great. “I get told I’m a great kid, respectful young man, and it makes me feel amazing. Not because I get complimented, but because all I do is follow my dad’s example and do my best to listen to his wisdom,” he stated. Unfortunately, Javon’s dad couldn’t attend the event but sent a letter congratulating and encouraging him. Javon plans to continue his education majoring in business finance or analytics. His dream is to join Ultimate Fighting Championship UFC and then enter the military.
Kaia Van Slyke
Kaia Van Slyke is Heritage High School’s Student of the Month. Kaia also embodies Heritage’s core values of Leadership, Excellence, Generosity, Academics, Character, and Opportunity, according to Principal Lindsay Chavez. She is a silent but strong leader and is dedicated to her academics, sports, and to her peers. Kaia’s teacher, LaDawn Johnson, had nothing but praise for Kaia. She shared that Kaia excelled both
California Dream Act Application (CADAA) as soon as possible, and no later than the California deadline, which has historically been March 2.
Eligible students and families can visit www.calstate.edu/rcoe for more information.
I can’t do it all. Learning the importance of balance and delegating has been a challenge for me but I think I’m finally starting to get the hang of it. I’m now a leader who teaches others how to become one themselves.”
Lincoln Kingdon was introduced by Principal Hill who said he has been part of the school’s culinary program all four years and is on the football and track and field teams. Lincoln plans to attend San Joaquin Valley College in Ontario to pursue a career in HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning). “The biggest life lesson I’ve learned is from Coach (Derek) Hill when he got me to play football in my sophomore years,” Lincoln said. “He taught me how to become a role model and a leader. Sports helps guide you and keep you out of trouble.” During the off season, the outstanding senior volunteers with the Helping Hands Group of Canyon Lake, a faith-based nonprofit that provides care packages and meals to neighbors in need. As head football coach this year, Hill said Lincoln was named MVP of the varsity football in his junior year. Although he doesn’t have team captains, Hill said everyone knows that Lincoln is his unofficial captain. “He is the guy I go to first,” Hill said. For more information on the program, please contact Kim Joseph Cousins at 951-245-8848 or Donna Romo at Donnajromo@ aol.com
in the classroom and on the volleyball court. She approaches all of it with determination and grace, inspiring both her classmates and teammates. While Kaia has had a positive experience in high school, it has not been without its challenges. Kaia did share that as a result of having an alcoholic mother, she and her younger sister live with their grandparents. And it was Kaia’s grandfather who instilled the importance of education which Kaia has taken to heart. Kaia plans on continuing her education by attending Cal Baptist University, majoring in business. She hopes to come back to the community and start a volleyball program that is more affordable for families. All of these students demonstrated a desire to work hard and have a drive to exceed others and their own expectations. The Perris Valley Chamber and the Menifee Valley Chamber wish them the best in their endeavors. If you wish to learn more about the Student of the Month Program, please contact founder, Sally Myers at 951-506-8024.
Valley News/ RDNE Stock project photo (pexels.com)
Eligible students at every public high school in Riverside County will soon be offered direct admission to the CSU for the fall 2025 term, before they even apply.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
To submit an upcoming community event, email it to valleyeditor@reedermedia.com, put “attention events” in the subject line.
CHILDREN’S EVENTS
Nov. 6 – 4-5 p.m. Theater Games and Improv at the North Annex of Kay Ceniceros Senior Center, 29995 Evans Road, Menifee. Four week sessions on Wednesdays for children ages 8-12 with an award winning instructor. Cost $80 for residents. Learn confidence, trust, team work. Contact Menifee Community Services Dept. 951-723-3880 or cityofmenifee.us/register
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
Nov. 1 – 2- 10 p.m. 3rd annual Dia de Los Muertos celebrations in downtown Hemet on N. Harvard St. Altar displays, vintage cars, family fun, entertainment.
Nov. 2 – 4-9 p.m. Dia de Los Muertos on Grand Ave. in Lake Elsinore. City and Chamber of Commerce sponsored. Costumes, altars, dancers, Catrina procession, Mariachis, Car show.
Nov. 2 – 10 a.m Veterans Day Parade City of Perris at downtown D St. Judging stand on San Jacinto Blvd. Parade and entertainment. Pre-parade line-up at 9 a.m.
Nov. 2 – 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Fall Family Resource Fair presented by the Menifee Union High School District at the District Education Center, 29775 Haun Road, Menifee. Learn about programs that support children of any age. Info booths, vendors, other displays.
Nov. 2 – 10 a.m., 2024 Veterans Expo with Sen. Kelly Seyarto at Monteleone Meadows, 35245 Briggs Road, Murrieta. Many benefits., employment opportunities to veterans displayed and discussed.
Nov. 5 – 7 a.m. ELECTION DAY. DON’T FORGET TO GET OUT AND VOTE!
Nov. 7 – 5 p.m. Boys & Girls Club of Inland Valley presents 10th annual Gala: Night at the Oscars to help support 2,500 children at Soboba Springs Golf Course, 1020 Soboba Road, San Jacinto. Must be 21 years of age. Donation $100. Wear red carpet attire at this special event with silent auctions, dinner, cash bar, entertainment and more. Contact the Boys & Girls Club, 951-246-8845 for reservations and information.
Nov. 9 – 10 a.m. Veterans Day Ceremony. “Legacy of Loyalty and Service,” at the Riverside National Cemetery Amphitheater, 22495 Van Buren Blvd., Riverside. Riverside Concert Band, speakers, the national anthem, chaplain’s invocation. Withs flags for every hero.
Nov. 9 – 9 a.m. Jurupa Valley Veterans parade and Celebration on Mission Blvd. between Riverview and Crestmore. Live music, food , kids zone, aircraft displays.
Nov. 9 – 10 a.m. Beaumont Veterans Day Parade along 6th St. and Beaumont Ave.
Nov. 11 – 9 a.m. Veterans Day Observance Ceremony at Lake Elsinore’s Diamond Stadium. 500 Diamond Drive. Latest honorees of the Veterans Memorial Brick program announced.
Nov. 11 – 10 a.m. 19th annual
Murrieta Veterans Day Parade starts at Ivy and Washington streets, concluding at Town Square Park. Flyover and national anthem
Nov. 11 – 10 a.m. Menifee Veterans Day Ceremony at Hidden Hills Park, 31727 Eaton Lane, Menifee. With veteran talks, a fly over and other ceremonies.
Nov. 11 – 6 p.m. The City of Temecula presents the annual Patriotic Salute to Veterans in front of Temecula’s Civic Center, 41000 Main Street. The Veterans Day Concert is free and open to all in our community as we honor service members. Bring your fam-
ily, friends, and lawn chairs with some warm blankets to enjoy a fantastic concert under the stars in Temecula.
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 951674-2159.
ONGOING – Sun City Civic Association Monthly Square
Dance sessions are held Sundays from 1:30-5 p.m. at 26850 Sun City Boulevard.
ONGOING – If you know a homebound older adult, resources in Menifee are available, including grab-and-go, cooked and frozen food for pickup. Courtesy pantry items and meals delivered with no contact. Three days of emergency food can be delivered immediately or restaurant meal delivery for those who don’t qualify for food assistance programs. Call the California Department on Aging at 800-510-2020 for help.
ONGOING – 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
Nov. 1 – 10 a.m. New Temecula Art Mural on “Dia de Los Muertos” now on display at Sam Hicks Monument Park, 28300 Mercedes St., Temecula, through October. The mural showcases the skill of students from Bigfoot Art Classes and Diamond Valley Middle School.
Nov. 1 – Lake Menifee Women’s Club Menifee Fall Teen Awards. Nominations now open for All Star Athlete, Outstanding Citizen, Inspiring Academic teen. For more information and nominations contact www.cityofmenifee. us/YLM or 951-679-8092. Awards presented at a Menifee City Council meeting. Nov. 12 – 1 p.m. Lake Elsinore Historical Society meeting. This meeting is a reschedule of the Nov. 5 meeting due to the general election. Join us for a presentation on the Conklin Family and their Elsinore Naval and Military School. Hear about the early days and share memories. Meetings take place in the Cultural Building of the Lake Elsinore History
Museum, 183 N. Main St. Lake Elsinore. For more information, visit lakeelsinorehistoricalsociety. org Nov. 24 – 7 p.m. The Menifee Interfaith and Community Service Council brings an “Evening of Gratitude” at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints at 29725 Bradley St., Menifee. With faith and community leaders. Bring non-perishable and canned goods for the Menifee Valley Community Cupboard.
ONGOING – 10 a.m. The Temecula Valley Republican Women’s Club meets each month at the Wilson Creek Winery, 33960 Rancho California Road, Temecula. Memberships are now open. For questions, please contact Membership Chair Janine Plano at info@ tvrwomen.org
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 – Menifee Community Services offers online driver’s education courses for a fee of $21.95. The course includes animated driving scenarios, instructional videos, sample tests, licensed instructor available to answer questions, DMV-approved certificate of completion with all lectures and exams completed from home. Designed for students and does not include behind-thewheel instruction or a California driver’s permit. Contact 951-7233880 or visit the city of Menifee to register at www.cityof menifee.us
from others who are also dealing with similar challenges. For more information and to register, contact The Elizabeth Hospice Grief Support Services at 833349-2054.
ONGOING – Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous, a free 12step recovery program for anyone suffering from food obsession, overeating, undereating or bulimia, has meetings throughout the U.S. and the world. Contact 781932-6300, or for local meetings, call 925-321-0170 or visit www. foodaddicts.org.
ONGOING – The Murrieta Garden Club meets each month at the Murrieta Community Center, 41810 Juniper St. Anyone who likes to garden or is interested in plants is welcome. Membership is $10 per year. Find more information about the monthly event or project on Facebook.
ONGOING – Temecula Valley Rose Society meets each month. For more information and new meeting dates and places, visit www.temeculavalleyrosesociety.
org ONGOING – Menifee Toastmasters meets every Thursday at noon for one hour at a designated place to have fun, enhance speaking capabilities, gain self-confidence and improve social skills. For new dates, call 760-807-1323 or visit www.MenifeeToastmasters.org for more information.
ONGOING – Homeless veterans can receive free help by dialing 877-424-3838 for 24/7 access to the VA’s services for homeless, at-risk veterans. Chat is confidential for veterans and friends. Visit www.va.gov/homeless.
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 writingcraft discussions; attendees may read up to a five-minute excerpt from their work for feedback/ critique. RSVP at www.dorlandartscolony.com/sunday-scribblers. html.
Crossword Puzzle Theme: Famous Buildings
ONGOING – 10-11:30 a.m. Michelle’s Place Cancer Resource Center and The Elizabeth Hospice host a virtual support meeting for caregivers every
and fourth week of
Zoom. Get
Halloween Bash a smashing success!
Valley News staff
“The Halloween Bash turned out to be a fantastic evening, despite the last minute venue change. It was full of fun, excitement, and community spirit! A huge thanks goes to Faro at 127 West Social
House for providing the perfect setting, complete with amazing food. The incredible band kept the crowd dancing all night. Volunteers, including a group of Marines, came together to make the event an overwhelming success and a great foundation for next
year’s bash!,” said Valerie Thruelsen, who sponsored the event in anticipation of making it a yearly fundraiser.
Julie Reeder, with the nonprofit Mentoring for Purpose, one of the beneficiaries along with the Historical Society, said, “I re -
ally loved seeing people dance all night. The band exceeded all of our expectations! Jack Kovik assembled an outstanding group that brought the house down with hits from the ‘70s, ‘80s, and ‘90s. Almost everyone was in costume, and the crowd, made up of people of all ages (21+), had an amazing time. It was really everything we hoped for and more! We also appreciated Maryann Mccaffrey’s support and help” The silent auction featured over 50 fantastic items, ranging from one-hour massage gift certificates, Amazon gift cards, a basket from Major Market, clothing from 100 Main, a valuable set of pearls with amethyst beads, and a signed Goddard giclée donated by Prime Painting. Attendees were excited to bid on unique prizes like blankets from the Fallbrook Blanket Project, and kitchen gadgets like Blendi-Pros, pressure cookers,
Fallbrook Cafe
electric griddles, travel equipment, etc.
“We are so grateful to the nearly100 attendees who helped us raise a few thousand dollars for two important local nonprofits,” said Valerie. “Get ready for next year—we’re planning to make it even bigger and better!”
Julie said, “This year’s Halloween Bash was just a lot of fun, and we can’t wait to build on its success. Stay tuned for next year’s event, where we plan to continue the fun and raise even more for the community!”
Pumpkin drive to benefit sanctuary animals hosted by Temecula Mama
TEMECULA — Lisa McGuigan, of @TemeculaMama (formerly Temecula Tots), in partnership with Sale Ranch Animal Sanctuary, is announcing the 4th Annual Pumpkin Drive, an event supporting sanctuary animals. This year’s event will offer multiple post-Halloween drop-off locations and times: Butterfield Stage Park November 1, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. 33654 De Portola Rd., Temecula Murrieta Grocery Outlet
November 2, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. 39573 Los Alamos Rd., Murrieta AR Workshop Temecula November 2, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. 31795 Rancho California #500, Temecula San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum
November 1, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. 320 N. Broadway, Escondido The Plot Restaurant
November 3, TBD 1733 S. Coast Hwy, Oceanside The Pumpkin Drive invites the community to donate uncarved post-Halloween pumpkins to provide nutritious treats and enrichment for rescued farm animals. This event fosters community spirit and compassion for animals.
Sal e Ranch Animal Sanctuary offers rescue and refuge to farm animals discarded by the food industry. They are dedicated to breaking free from the existing food system by encouraging plant-based eating and regenerative gardening practices, which reinvest in the land and support the community. Sale Ranch is part of a larger network of local farm sanctuaries in Southern California and will distribute the donated pumpkins to these sanctuaries.
Lisa McGuigan shared that the event helps provide for animals and brings the community together in a meaningful way. She expressed gratitude for the ongoing support and generosity of the community and sanctuaries like Sale Ranch, which serve as champions for animals.
For more information about the Pumpkin Drive or to get involved, please contact Lisa McGuigan at Lisa@temeculamama.com
People came to the party in costume and had a great time.
Valley News/Courtesy photos
Musician Kenny Marquez plays in a disco set.
Shelby Mortimore performs "Lose Control" by Teddy Swims.
TEMECULA - The groundbreaking magazine-style news and information television show Spirit of Innovation: Arts Across America has achieved a major milestone by securing a coveted spot on Binge Network’s Top 10 Carousel. This recognition solidifies the series as a must-watch for enthusiasts of the arts and community stories. With its engaging segments showcasing local artists, businesses, and impactful community stories, Spirit of Innovation: Arts
Spirit of Innovation: Arts Across America lands spot on Binge Network’s Top 10 carousel TVAL
Across America is the first of its kind in Riverside County. This unique show has captivated audiences since its debut in 2018 and has now been acknowledged al ongside major hits on Binge Network’s Top 10. What sets Spirit of Innovation: Arts Across America apart is that it’s the product of 501(c)3 nonprofit JDS Creative Academy. The show upholds the organization’s mission of spreading the arts across America and ensuring
video, digital, and performing arts are accessible to all, regardless of ability or financial barriers. Spirit of Innovation aligns with Binge Network’s mission to support independent creators and promote diverse content. As more viewers tune in, the show has become a vital resource for those seeking inspiration and a deeper understanding of the arts and the community. Binge Network recognizes this, honoring the show with a spot on their Top 10 list.
ecula Promenade Mall from now through Nov. 17. This special cultural event offers the community a unique opportunity to explore the rich traditions of the “Day of the Dead” as well as purchase artwork that celebrates the artistic talent within our local art league.
The “Day of the Dead” Art display will feature a vibrant collection of works from TVAL members, ranging from paintings and sculptures to mixed media. Each piece reflects the artist’s interpretation of the “Day of the Dead,” a celebration of life and remembrance rooted in Mexican heritage.
In addition to the “Day of the Dead”, TVAL will put on display a variety of “Art for Sale” from Nov 9-17. This exhibit will be located on the second floor of the Promenade Mall, near the Cheesecake Factory. This a perfect opportunity to meet and support local artists and take home a unique piece of art.
Ines Miller, president for TVAL, expressed her enthusiasm for the event: “We are proud to present this cultural celebration to the community. The exhibits are a wonderful way to not only honor a meaningful tradition but also to showcase the incredible talent we have within our club.”
We invite everyone to join us in celebrating this achievement and help us fuel the growth of the arts by tuning in and sharing the show with your audience.
To watch Spirit of Innovation: Arts Across America, simply visit Binge Network’s Top 10. For more information about Spirit of Innovation: Arts Across America and JDS Creative Academy, please visit www.jdscreativeacademy.org
About JDS Creative Academy JDS Creative Academy is a
The Temecula Valley Art League invites everyone in the community to join in this celebration of culture, creativity, and community. The exhibits are free and open to the public during mall hours. For more information about the exhibit or the Temecula Valley Art League, please visit https:// www.temeculavalleyartleague. com or contact Ines Miller at tval.
nonprofit 501(c)3 organization based in Temecula, California. 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 diverse populations and to foster a diverse and inclusive environment. For more information, visit www.jdscreativeacademy.org or call JDS Studio at 951-296-6715.
artleague@gmail.com
The Temecula Valley Art League is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the visual arts in the Temecula Valley region. Through exhibitions, workshops, and community events, TVAL provides artists with opportunities to showcase their work and connect with the local community.
City of Temecula to host Holiday Bash Adult Softball Tournament in December
TEMECULA ─ Get ready to swing into the holiday spirit with the Holiday Bash Softball Tournament, set to take place Dec. 7 and 8 at the Patricia H. Birdsall Sports Park, located at 32380 Deer Hollow Way. This exciting annual event invites players and teams from across the region to compete in a weekend of fun, community, and high-energy softball action. The Holiday Bash promises to be more than just a tournament— it’s a celebration of teamwork, sportsmanship, and holiday cheer.
Whether you’re a seasoned player or just looking for a fun way to stay active during the holiday season, this tournament welcomes all skill levels.
Team registration for the tournament will be open from November 7 to 21. The Open Division will take place on Saturday, Dec. 7 and the COED Division on Sunday, Dec. 8. The team fee is $250. For more tournament information, and to download a Team Registration Packet, please visit TemeculaCA.gov/Tournaments.
Valley News/Courtesy photos
Homeschool students craft cards with Vineyard Place residents
MURRIETA - Some local homeschoolers joined residents at Vineyard Place, an Anthem Memory Care community, in
Youth from Our Lady of Fatima Home School Group and the seniors created the cards to send messages of hope and encouragement cards to patients at the Murrieta cCARE Cancer Center.
“The two generations worked together to create meaningful messages of support to those facing cancer,” said Christopher Balmes, life engagement director for Vineyard Place. “The collaboration was truly special -- fostering meaningful connections while allowing creativity to shine.”
Vineyard Place is located at 24325 Washington Ave., Murrieta.
Palomar Health Medical Group and Graybill Medical Group reach new agreement
SAN DIEGO COUNTY – In previous news, it was announced that Graybill Medical Group would be ending its affiliation with Palomar Health Medical Group (PHMG), with Graybill ceasing to provide services to patients in the Murrieta, Temecula, Fallbrook, Vista, Oceanside, San Marcos, El Norte, 2nd Avenue Escondido and Valley Center offices effective Nov. 11.
With their patients in mind during this transition, recent discussions have led to a new agreement that prioritizes a seamless continuity of care. With this new agreement, Graybill physicians will continue to practice at the follow-
ing locations: Murrieta, Temecula, Fallbrook, Vista, Oceanside, San Marcos, El Norte, and 2nd Avenue Escondido.
Effective Nov. 11, PHMG physicians will continue to practice at the Valley Center location, as this location will remain under PHMG’s operation. Dr. Julia Martin, a family practice physician employed by Graybill, will transition from Valley Center to 2nd Avenue Escondido.
To ensure patients continue to receive the extraordinary care they have come to expect, Graybill will continue to collaborate with Palomar Health by utilizing PHMG and Palomar Medical Centers to ensure
continuity of patient care. Graybill patients who have been referred to a PHMG specialist for specialized care can maintain their appointments with the PHMG provider they’ve come to know and trust. This commitment ensures that patients ongoing treatments will proceed seamlessly, without any interruptions.
The ongoing relationship between both organizations and their patients remains a top priority, and this resolution ensures that there will be no disruption in patient care during the transition.
Despite this agreement, the affiliation between PHMG and Graybill will come to an end.
Graybill will establish a new partnership with Sharp Community Medical Group.
What this means for patients:
1. Location stability: Graybill’s office locations will remain the same, except for Valley Center, ensuring minimal disruption to patient services.
2. Seamless care: Patients will continue to see their same doctors and receive the high-quality care they have come to expect.
3. Insurance coverage: Graybill will maintain its current participation in all major insurance networks, ensuring patients can continue their care without needing to change health plans.
Here are symptoms of three common prostate problems
TEMECULA – As men age, one part of the body that often causes concern due to possible health issues is the prostate. This small gland, located just below the bladder that helps make semen, can
be affected by cancer, as well as non-cancerous conditions. Being able to recognize the symptoms of prostate problems will help you know when it’s time to see a doctor.
Here are symptoms of some of the most common prostate problems in men.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate) This is a condition in which
the prostate is enlarged but it is not cancerous. The prostate commonly enlarges as men get older so age is the biggest risk factor for the condition. It can result in bladder, urinary tract and kidney problems.
Symptoms include:
Frequent or urgent need to urinate
Urinating often at night
Trouble starting to urinate
Weak or interrupted urine stream
Dribbling at the end of urination
Not being able to fully empty the bladder
Symptoms tend to slowly get worse but they may also stay the same for long periods of time.
Prostatitis
This condition refers to inflammation in the prostate that is often caused by a bacterial infection, although there may be other causes. The condition can be acute (comes on suddenly and goes away after a short period of time) or it can be chronic, where it comes back again and again.
Symptoms of prostatitis may differ depending on the cause and whether it is acute or chronic, but some of the most common symptoms include:
Painful urination, including burning when urinating
Difficulty urinating, such as trouble starting to urinate, weak stream or dribbling at the end of urination
Frequent urination, especially at night
Urgent need to urinate
Pain in the groin, pelvic area, genitals, abdomen or lower back
Cloudy urine or blood in urine
4. Referral network continuity: The referral processes between Palomar Medical Center and Graybill Medical Group will remain intact. Graybill patients receiving care from PHMG specialists will not experience any interruptions. PHMG and Graybill are committed to providing compassionate and consistent care throughout this transition. If patients have any questions or require further information, they are encouraged to contact PHMG offices at 858675-3292 or Graybill offices at 760-291-6700. Submitted by Graybill Medical Group.
This is the second most common cancer in men (after skin cancer). Your risk increases as you get older and if you have a family history of the disease. Your race may also affect your risk of the disease (African American men are most at risk while Asian American men have the lowest rates of prostate cancer). A high-fat diet may also increase your risk. The good news is that prostate cancer often grows slowly (although some types can get worse quickly).
Early stages of prostate cancer may cause no symptoms, but as the cancer advances you may notice these symptoms: Difficulty urinating
Weak stream or interrupted flow when urinating
Urinating often, especially at night
Trouble emptying the bladder completely
Blood in the urine or semen
Erectile dysfunction
Pain, stiffness or swelling in the lower back, hips, thighs or legs
Losing weight without trying
Fatigue
Since symptoms of different prostate problems are often similar, it is best to see your primary doctor or a urologist if you have any of the symptoms listed. Getting a proper diagnosis can help you treat the condition you have more effectively.
Submitted by Temecula Valley Hospital.
Lucile Chirico, resident, and Emma Gustilo, student volunteer, became fast friends while crafting cards.
Student Johanni Ladines and Peggy Scarborough, Vineyard Place resident, joined forces to create uplifting cards for cancer patients.
Valley News/Courtesy photos
Valley Restart seeking bids for new fencing
Diane A. Rhodes
Special to Valley News
Valley Restart Shelter is accepting bids to install approximately 350 feet of seven-foot-tall wrought iron fencing, with a curved top, along the front of the property at 200 E. Menlo Ave. in Hemet. The fence will include two 25foot rolling gates and one 4-foot pedestrian gate.
“We hope to have this project completed by the end of the year,”
VRS Executive Director Javier H. Lopez said. “It’s been a long process but we’re looking forward to completing it soon.”
A Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) with the county is helping the nonprofit organization with the costs associated with this necessary project.
“We need to keep our families safe, including the children and seniors that we serve,” Lopez said.
“Also, there are many times when we shelter women experiencing domestic violence and having a fence will help deter anyone from trying to walk in and cause trouble.”
He said that there have been recent thefts with items stolen from the property in broad daylight since the parking lot is currently accessible from a public street. Lopez said they are hoping to in-
stall more security cameras in the near future as funding becomes available.
Bids will be accepted from Nov. 1 until noon on Nov. 15, 2024. A bid package that must be submitted with each bid can be picked up at 200 E. Menlo St. in Hemet by contacting Chet Kassotis, who is handling questions and bid walks. He can be reached at 909-7253489. Text is the preferred method of communication. For more information about VRS, please visit www.valleyrestartshelter.org.
RCWD approves MND, construction contract for Carancho Pump Station improvements
Joe Naiman Special to Valley News
Two 7-0 Rancho California Water District board votes on Oct. 17 advanced the RWCD project to expand and improve the Carancho Pump Station.
One action adopted an environmental Mitigated Negative Declaration for the project including a Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program. The other motion awarded a $6,711,861 construction contract to Myers & Sons Construction, LLC, and a $334,712 construction support and environmental monitoring services contract to Ardurra Group, Inc. The improvements will increase the pump station capacity from 1,450 gallons per minute (gpm) to 4,200 gpm. The project will also install permanent backup power to guard the water supply against power shut offs during high fire risk weather events. The existing 120-foot diameter Carancho No.
1 and 100-foot diameter Carancho No. 2 welded steel reservoirs adjacent to the pump station, which are out of service, will be demolished. Rancho Water’s 2550 Pressure Zone in the Santa Rosa Division has two sources of supply: the Tenaja Pump Station with a rated capacity of 6,300 gpm and the Baldaray Pump Station with a rated capacity of 4,420 gpm. The Tenaja Pump Station obtains supply from the Carancho Pump Station, and pipeline improvements will be part of the Carancho Pump Station expansion. T he Carancho Pump Station was originally constructed in 1987. The facility has two 1,450 gpm pumps, one for duty and one for standby, along with two empty pump cans. The current pump station does not have backup power generation, nor does it have the ability to accommodate temporary emergency power in its current configuration.
The Tenaja Pump Station pro-
vides immediate redundancy for the Baldaray Pump Station but cannot provide multiple maximum day redundancy for the Baldaray Pump Station until the Carancho Pump Station is improved. The Tenaja Reservoir, which has a capacity of 2.2 million gallons, can temporarily augment supply from the Carancho Pump Station to allow the Tenaja Pump Station to operate at 4,200 gpm to supply the 2550 Pressure Zone, but that is is not sustainable because the Tenaja Reservoir cannot fill and the Tenaja Pump Station is eventually limited to operating a single 2,100 gpm pump. In addition to increasing the c apacity to 4,200 gpm the improvements to the Carancho Pump Station will provide redundant fire suppression supply to the unincorporated communities of Tenaja, De Luz, and La Cresta. The work will construct three duty pumps and one standby pump. Two new surge tanks will be installed, and
the installation activities will also include new electrical conduits, a 50-foot antenna on the southwestern portion of the upper pad, a new transformer, a new 1,250-kilowatt emergency generator with an automatic transfer switch and enclosure, and approximately 600 linear feet of 24-inch diameter potable water pipeline from the eastern end of the main driveway of Carancho Pump Station to the location of the pump station improvements.
In December 2023 the RCWD board awarded Ardurra, which is headquartered in Tampa and has an office in Temecula, a $549,564 professional services contract for the final design, environmental documentation, and bid phase support services. The draft Mitigated Negative Declaration and Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program were released for public review August 8. Public comment closed September 9, and the only comment was from the South
Coast Air Quality Management. That agency’s comments were evaluated and incorporated into the final document. Rancho Water had previously consulted with the Pechanga Band of Luiseno Indians, and the Tribe’s comments were incorporated into the draft documents. RCWD staff advertised the construction contract for bid July 11. Five bids were opened August 27. The engineer’s estimate was $6,700,000. Myers & Sons, which has an office in Los Angeles, submitted the low bid of $6,711,861. The second-lowest bid amount of $6,784,000 was submitted by MMC, Inc., of La Palma. The board action also authorized a $369,863 contingency amount to allow change orders to the construction contract to be made without subsequent board approval.
Joe Naiman can be reached at jnaiman@reedermedia.com.
Requesting Sub-bids, Sub-proposals from firms with California DBE certification Subcontractors/Subconsultants/Vendors wanted for: Test Pumping of Wells, Conductor Drilling, Dirt Off Haul
Project Name: DRILLING NEW WELL NOS. 173, 174, AND 175
Owner: Rancho California Water District
Bid/Proposal Due Date & Time: November 5, 2024, at 2PM Local Time
For information on the availability of scope of work, plans and specifications and the proposer/bidder’s policy concerning assistance to subcontractors in obtaining bonds, lines of credit, and/or insurance, please contact our office.
Valley Restart Shelter in Hemet has put out a request for bids on the construction of a fence to enclose its parking lot. Valley News/Courtesy photos
A fencing project to enclose the Valley Restart Shelter on Menlo Ave. in Hemet is being planned.
Answers for puzzle on page B-3
Menifee’s Hudson Bills conquers gold medal quest with Team USA Baseball
JP Raineri Sports Editor
PANAMA CITY – The USA
Baseball 12U National Team emerged victorious at the WBSC U-12 Baseball World Cup Americas Qualifier this past weekend, securing a thrilling 14-7 win over the Dominican Republic to clinch the gold medal. This triumph not only marked back-to-back titles for Team USA but also ensured their place in the 2025 WBSC U-12 Baseball World Cup in Taiwan.
Among the exceptional players was Hudson Bills from Menifee, California. Making his debut during the tournament’s second game, Bills pitched 1.1 flawless innings against Mexico, maintaining a perfect 0.00 ERA. His performance was instrumental in helping pave the way for Team USA’s eventual gold medal victory.
The tournament took place in Panama City, Panama, from October 20-26, where Team USA faced fierce competition from across the Americas. The squad traveled with high hopes, having previously dominated the 2023 World Cup Qualifier with a gold medal win in Aguascalientes, Mexico. This year, with renewed vigor, the team aimed to uphold their winning legacy.
First-time manager Bryan Madsen led the team with poise and determination, supported by a dedicated coaching staff featuring
Roger Wright, Wes Brooks, and Josh Ellison. Despite a challenging day of rain delays that forced the final game to move locations, Team USA’s focus and determination remained unshaken. The players showcased their skills across two different fields in a marathon six-hour match against the Dominican Republic, leaving no doubt about their championship potential.
In the final game, Team USA’s offense was relentless, scoring in each inning, which kept the pressure on their opponents. The American lineup demonstrated their prowess at the plate, taking full advantage of every opportunity to score. This offensive strength was complemented by a defense that held strong, sealing the victory and ensuring the Dominican Republic’s only defeat of the tournament.
The victory extends Team USA’s impressive record in international competitions, adding another gold medal to their growing collection. With seven golds and nine overall medals in just 11 years, the team’s achievements are a testament to the robust training and development programs led by USA Baseball. This tournament also served as a platform for young talents like Hudson Bills to shine on the international stage. Players from across the United States, including
Freshman Fay Jia claims victory at CIF Southwestern League Girls Golf Finals
JP Raineri Sports Editor
TEMECULA — In a display of consistent excellence and precision, freshman Fay Jia of Vista Murrieta High School secured her place as the champion of the CIF Southwestern League Girls Golf Finals. Held at the scenic Redhawk Golf Club on Thursday, Oct. 24, Jia delivered an impressive overall score of 139 over two rounds, claiming the top spot with a ten-stroke lead over her nearest competitor.
Breanna Noble, a sophomore from the same school, finished in second place with a commendable score of 149. This stellar performance by Jia and Noble underscored Vista Murrieta’s dominance in the competition, cementing their reputation as a powerhouse in girls’ high school golf.
Jia’s victory comes on the heels of her outstanding performance at the Rainbow Sandals Classic in September, where she not only took home medalist honors but also shattered the program record with a remarkable round of 4-under par on a par 73. Her ability to consistently play under par has
The young 12U athlete celebrates Team USA’s victory over Dominican Republic.
Menifee’s Hudson Bills was a key player in Team USA’s recent success. Valley News/USA Baseball courtesy photo
Valley News/USA Baseball courtesy photo
Menifee’s Hudson Bills, pictured here pitching for his travel ball team, pitched a scoreless inning to close the game against Mexico last week. Valley News/USA Baseball courtesy photo
Murrieta Valley edges Vista Murrieta 57-55 in a high-scoring football thriller
JP Raineri Sports Editor
MURRIETA – In a game that had fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle, Murrieta Valley secured a thrilling 5755 victory over crosstown rival Vista Murrieta. The matchup, part of the Big West ConferenceNorth Division, was marked by standout performances and nail-biting moments, particularly from Murrieta Valley’s senior quarterback Bear Bachmeier and Vista Murrieta’s Bryson Beaver. Bachmeier made an impressive season debut after missing the first eight games due to a knee injury. He showed little signs of rust, passing for 275 yards and throwing three touchdowns. Bachmeier also added a rushing touchdown, showcasing his dualthreat capability. Alongside him,
Dorian Hoze was unstoppable on the ground, rushing for 265 yards and scoring four touchdowns. His performance helped Murrieta Valley amass 354 rushing yards, clearly outpacing Vista Murrieta’s 188 yards.
The game was a high-scoring affair from the start, with both teams combining for a staggering 1,295 total yards of offense. This offensive explosion was a sharp contrast to Murrieta Valley’s previous game, where they scored just nine points. Credit must also go to Cam Connor, who caught five passes for 109 yards and two touchdowns, adding another dimension to the Nighthawks’ attack.
On the other side, Vista Murrieta’s Bryson Beaver put on a spectacular performance, passing for a career-high 478 yards and five touchdowns. He also contributed 95 rushing yards and a touchdown. Sean McCullough was equally impressive, catching 12 passes for 279 yards and scoring four touchdowns. Despite their efforts, the Broncos fell short in the final moments of the game.
A pivotal play came when Tyler Caldwell caught a crucial pass on 4th down to bring Vista Murrieta within two points with just 20 seconds remaining. However, the Broncos’ attempt at a two-point conversion failed, sealing their fate.
The victory improves Murrieta Valley’s record to 7-2 overall, 3-1 in league play, and marks their fourth consecutive home win.
Vista Murrieta, meanwhile, has found themselves in a rough patch, losing three of their last four games and bringing their record to 5-4.
Both teams will now hit the road for their next matchups, and final games of the regular season. Murrieta Valley looks to extend their momentum against Roosevelt, who is currently on a four-game losing streak. Vista Murrieta will face a challenging opponent in Norco.
CIF Southern Section playoff brackets will be live on Sunday, Nov. 3, at 10 a.m. for 11-player teams and at 1 p.m. for 8-player teams. Follow the action at www. cifss.org. Send local sports tips and info to sports@reedermedia.com
GOLF from page C-1
made her a force to be reckoned with in the league, and her recent win only solidifies her status as one of the top local players in the sport. Throughout the season, Jia has been instrumental in leading Vista Murrieta to key victories against teams like Temecula Valley
AnzA VAlley OUTLOOK
AnzA VAlley
Bear Bachmeier makes his season debut, leading Murrieta Valley to an exhilarating victory over Vista Murrieta. Valley News/Files Owens Photography
Tyler Caldwell’s (13) catch on 4th down to put the game within 2 points with 20 seconds left. Vista Murrieta failed to convert the two-point conversion. Valley News/Files Owens Photography
Vista Murrieta QB Bryson Beaver gets the offense ready.
Valley News/Files Owens Photography
Vista Murrieta’s Sean Mccullough (10) cuts up field against Murrieta Valley in their Week Nine matchup.
Valley News/Files Owens Photography
Nighthawks charge forward in CIF Southern Section girls’ volleyball playoffs
JP Raineri Sports Editor
The Murrieta Valley Nighthawks are proving themselves as a force to be reckoned with in this year’s CIF Southern Section Girls Volleyball Championship. Coming off a successful regular season, the Nighthawks, with a record of 25-7, kicked off their postseason in dominant fashion by sweeping Burroughs of Ridgecrest, a team that boasted an impressive 28-2-1 record. The match, held on Wednesday, October 23, saw Murrieta Valley deliver a commanding 3-0 victory at home, setting the tone for what could be a promising playoff run.
Local
JP Raineri Sports Editor
The Nighthawks continued their momentum into the weekend with another thrilling win. Facing West Ranch from Valencia on Saturday, Murrieta Valley found themselves in a tight contest. They emerged victorious with a 3-2 win, pushing their season record to 26-6. The clash highlighted the team’s skill and ability to perform under pressure, particularly in the critical moments that eventually decided the match.
Murrieta Valley’s success can be attributed to their dynamic roster and strong leadership. Coached by an experienced team of strategists, under Ann Romero-Parks, the Nighthawks have been able to
maintain focus and discipline on the court. Their ability to adapt to different opponents and play styles has been pivotal throughout the season. Looking ahead, the Nighthawks prepare for yet another challenge. They are set to face Orange Lutheran in the quarterfinals of the Division 2 CIF Southern Section
Girls Volleyball Championship. The match, scheduled for Wednesday, October 30, at 6 p.m., promises to be an intense showdown as both teams vie for a spot in the semifinals.
Murrieta Valley’s performance this season is a reflection of their hard work and dedication. The Southwestern League co-champions have demonstrated a commitment to excellence, and their recent wins only affirm their title aspirations. Orange Lutheran will undoubtedly present a formidable challenge, but the Nighthawks have shown they are ready for whatever comes their way.
Send local sports tips and info to sports@reedermedia.com
alumni see USC triumph over No. 6 Gonzaga in high-scoring exhibition
LOS ANGELES – USC basketball fans had reason to cheer as the Trojans edged past the No. 6 ranked Gonzaga Bulldogs in a thrilling charity exhibition game at Acrisure Arena on Saturday, Oct. 26. While brothers Kevin and Kallai Patton, local talents hailing from Murrieta’s Rancho Christian High School, didn’t take the court, their presence in the USC camp underscored the depth and potential of this Trojans team. Leading the charge for USC was grad transfer Terrance Williams II, who put up an impressive 20 points. His efforts were complemented by Chibuzo Agbo, who not only scored 15 points but also dominated the boards with seven rebounds. Desmond Claude added 19 points, while Josh Cohen and Matt Knowling chipped in with 13 each, rounding off a balanced offensive display that saw five Trojans reaching double figures.
On the Gonzaga side, Arkansas grad transfer Khalif Battle stood tall with a 20-point performance, battling against his former coach Eric Musselman. Despite his efforts, the Bulldogs found themselves on the back foot for much of the game. USC maintained control for nearly 30 minutes, edging Gonzaga 34-32 in rebounds and limiting them to 40.9% shooting from beyond the arc. USC’s defensive prowess, highlighted by five blocked shots, played a crucial role in stifling Gonzaga’s offense.
A defining moment came with a rapid 10-0 scoring run that catapulted the Trojans to a doubledigit lead early in the second half. The team extended their advantage to 11 points, leading 61-50 with just under 11 minutes remaining. While the Bulldogs mounted a comeback attempt, USC’s offense proved too potent, culminating in
Ryleigh Short was a force against Burroughs as the Nighthawks swept 3-0 to start the postseason. Valley News/David Canales photo
Miley Thunstrom gets a kill over the Burroughs defenders for the Nighthawks in their first round playoff match. Valley News/David Canales photo
Summer Tukua (25) and Naomi Barbosa (15) played solidly at the net for Murrieta Valley in their first round playoff match. Valley News/David Canales photo
Murrieta Valley opens the CIF Southern Section Division 2 playoffs with a 3-0 sweep of Burroughs. Valley News/David Canales photo
Gonzaga’s Khalif Battle (99) takes a jump shot during their game against USC.
USC forward Saint Thomas (0) makes a reverse layup against the defense of Gonzaga forward Graham Ike (13). Valley News/Andrez Imaging Valley News/Andrez Imaging
Rancho Christian high school alumni and USC forward Kevin Patton, Jr. (8) during warmups for the game.
Rancho Christian high school alumni and USC guard Kallai Patton (13) pictured here warming for their game versus Gonzaga. Valley News/Andrez Imaging Valley News/Andrez Imaging
Learning the art of firescaping and home fire protection Part III
Roger
Boddaert Special to Valley News
Making your home and community safer and surviving a
is a process that will be well worth the
be
Some projects can be done in a
or two, although it is essential to remember that routine maintenance must be a part of any long-term plan to reduce your home’s vulnerability from wildfires.
Wildfires can be challenging to control, and what is controllable is how you prepare your home and surroundings before fire threatens.
A valuable link between survival and destruction is the steps one can take to reduce the chance of a fire’s initial ignition around your home.
Here are some critical areas to address and items to address.
Access zone
The access zone is the area that helps emergency crews and firefighters to locate and arrive at your home promptly.
Check and make sure the streets signs at each intersection leading to your address are visible and clear of overgrown vegetation.
Clear away any plants that could be blocking your home address.
Equip automatic gates with approved emergency key-operated switches that override all command functions so the gate can be operated by emergency personnel to enter your property.
Have your driveway at least 16 feet wide and 13.6 feet high and clear of vegetation so emergency vehicles can enter safely.
Defensible space
This is the area around your home where vegetation should be continuously managed and tailored to reduce fire risk at all times. See Part II for more information.
Interior zone
This is the inside your home, and these are many fire safety tips that will help you protect the interior of your home. Keep your fireplace clean from excessive creosote buildup on the chimney’s interior walls. Ensure your chimney flue has a spark-arrester, so sparks are not allowed to fly upward and outside.
Keep flammable materials at least three feet away from wood stoves and fireplaces.
Use metal, mesh, or glass screening in front of your fireplace opening.
Light a fire in your fireplace correctly, and never start a fire with flammable liquids or gasoline.
Dispose of all fireplace ashes in a metal container and wait a minimum of five days before transferring them to another container.
Stack firewood at least 50 feet away from your home and clear combustible vegetation within 10 feet of the firewood pile. Do not stack firewood in an uphill location from your home, for if burning, the logs can fall apart and roll downhill and ignite your home.
Smoke alarms are inexpensive devices that save many lives and should be placed in every bedroom and commons areas of your home.
Test each smoke alarm once a month to ensure it is working and replace batteries once a year. I do it every fall when I reset our clocks in the home to fall backward.
A typical smoke detector unit can last about 8-10 years, so clean
smoke detectors with a vacuum and dust debris from its opening.
Own and maintain fire extinguishers to quickly put our small fires. Check them annually and recharge after each use. Many come with a gauge to indicate their readiness and if fully charged.
Do you have an interior fire sprinkler system, especially if your home is near the Wildland-Urban Interface or other high-risk fire areas?
Structure zone Inspect your roof and replace it when needed for many roof coverings used in residential construction should be replaced every 20-40 years.
Keep roofs and gutters free of fallen debris such as needles, leaves and branches. A roof fire can enter your attic, ignite the flammable insulation materials, and start the house burning quickly.
Install gutter guards to reduce the frequency of cleaning. Debris, like leaves, accumulates in gutters and allows flying sparks to ignite a roof fire.
Install small mesh screen coverings over your roof vents so embers will not enter into the attic area.
Cover the undersides of your eaves with fire-resistant material
to box them in, which will protect the eave area and slow a roof fire.
Attached wooden decks to the home, when on fire, can lead to the house catching fire. Use at least 1.5-inch boards in its construction. Thinner boards ignite easier, release heat faster, and pose a higher hazard to adjacent windows and wall sidings.
Remove burnable furnishings off the deck if a fire is approaching.
Use gravel mulch under a raised deck to prevent vegetation growth, which can be a fire problem under wooden decks.
Do not store combustible materials under a wooden deck.
Use two-pane glass windows in the construction of your home. They are an added protection with the outer pane serving as a thermal shield for the inner pane. Tempered glass is more substantial than regular annealed glass.
Do not have combustible wooden structures, such as storage sheds and gazebos or playhouses close to the home; they should be at least 30 feet or more away from the main house.
A wooden fence attached to a home, if it catches on fire, can act as a wick, leading fire to the house. Install a portable sprinkler system on top of the house roof
and attach it to a garden hose if a fire approaches your property.
The water in a pool can be used as a great source to help put out a house fire. You can drop a portable pump hose into the pool, along with a gas-generator, and utilize that tremendous amount of water to perhaps save your home.
Planning & evacuation
Evacuation and preparedness safety tips are also needed for all your animals.
Take care of your pets and animals of all kinds with a list of evacuation items for them and a safe place to take them for a while.
Plan transportation for larger livestock like horses, cattle, pigs, sheep, llamas, and others if you have them.
Please make sure you have food for them in adequate supply along with water, beddings and essentials for their comfort.
Have a plan with friends and neighbors to help get animals loaded and transported to a holding shelter for a while.
Personal preparedness
Be careful with all types of candles, especially with holiday décor.
Prioritize items in order of importance with a place to go if you must evacuate, along with phone numbers for family members to contact you.
A three-day emergency backpack with water, canned food, toiletries, a change of clothing, and if you have to evacuate your home.
Sleeping bags, blankets, and a first aid kit with medications for all are vital.
Essential documents include birth and marriage certificates, vaccination records, financial
documents, passport, insurance papers, and your address book.
Don’t forget those photo albums, which mean so much to you and your family, for years of memories are tucked into those pages. Perhaps now is the time to digitize all those photos and have on a few savable disks or flash drives.
Get a local emergency app on your phone to stay informed as communication is vital for all parties involved.
Special items for infants, the elderly, or the disabled are of prime concern.
Don’t forget an extra pair of reading glasses and sunglasses as well.
Battery-powered flashlight and extra batteries, a radio, a phone charger.
Turn off outdoor fuel tanks if connected to the home before evacuation.
Don’t forget games, toys, books or other entertainment items for the children to pass the time while away. And by all means, keep your spirits positive and cheerful and count your blessings.
So get that to-go bag ready and have your list available at hand so that in a moment of panic and stress, you don’t forget something. I hope I have brought some valuable information to you and that you take care of some of these items while learning a little bit about the art of firescaping.
Roger Boddaert is a landscape design horticulturist and certified arborist who can help with a property assessment in caring for your property and home. He can be reached at 760-728-4297.
RCWD approves Pauba Road acquisition agreements
energy dissipators.
The Rancho California Water District will be providing the County of Riverside with an easement near Pauba Road.
A 7-0 RCWD board vote on Oct. 17 approved the right-of-way acquisition agreement for 5,401 square feet of a parcel adjacent to an inactive district well. The county will pay the water district
$29,300 for the acquisition.
The County of Riverside is planning to widen Pauba Road for approximately 1.1 miles from Via Del Monte Road to Calle Contento.
The work will not add travel lanes but will widen the road from 20 to 28 feet to accommodate two 12-foot travel lanes along with two-foot paved shoulders in each direction. Pauba Road will be realigned both vertically and horizontally to improve road user safety. The work will also provide drainage improvements including construction of new culverts and replacement of existing culverts, concrete headwalls at culvert inlets and outlets, and rock
The road widening and realignment will require permanent rights and temporary construction easements including a permanent non-exclusive easement for road improvements and graded slopes along the frontage of Well No. 208, which is west of Calle Contento. Well No. 208 has been inactive since 1999. The proposed road and slope improvements along the frontage of Well No. 208 were reviewed by RCWD staff to ensure impacts to that site are minimized, and the county incorporated those comments into the revised design to address the district’s concerns.
In March 2023 the county appraised the RCWD property and initially offered $23,900 for the easement for 5,401 square feet of the 14,375 square foot parcel. RCWD and county staff negotiated a $29,300 price, and the county prepared an agreement along with associated documents which were reviewed by the RCWD legal counsel.
Joe Naiman can be reached at jnaiman@reedermedia.com
A combination smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector is a good safety device to have in your home. Valley News/Courtesy photos
An interior sprinkler system in the ceiling can help put a home fire out.
A gas generator with a submersible hose that can go into a pool can utilize the water in fighting a fire around your house and property.
A fire extinguisher is an important part of any fire prevention plan.
Joe Naiman Special to Valley News
Highway Update
Caltrans seeking planning grant applicants for up to $34 million in climate-resilient transportation projects
Tony
Ault Staff Writer
The California Department of Transportation announced it is seeking planning grant applicants for sustainable, climate-resilient transportation projects across California. These projects will reduce planet-warming pollution, facilitate transit use, and help underserved communities better withstand the effects of climate change. The application deadline is January 22, 2025, at 5 p.m., with awards announced in the summer.
The Sustainable Transportation Planning Grants (STPG) award approximately $34 million in annual funding to support regional sustainable communities’ strategies and ultimately achieve the state’s greenhouse gas reduction targets, while enhancing safety and transit across California’s transportation network. Caltrans updated the STPG application to increase the Native American Tribal Government set-aside to $3 million from $800,000. This includes up to $2 million for Sustainable Communities and up to $1 million for Climate Adaptation Planning.
This year’s funding includes approximately $3.7 million from a one-time augmentation for Climate
Adaptation Planning. Funds will be available for local, regional, and tribal governments to identify transportation-related climate vulnerabilities through climate adaptation planning, as well as project-level planning to identify adaptation projects and strategies for transportation infrastructure.
Caltrans will host application workshops starting this week and will provide technical assistance to applicants up until the application due date, January 22, 2025.
An application guide and application materials can be found on the Sustainable Transportation Planning Grants website
Caltrans recently announced the award of $51 million in 202425 Sustainable Transportation Planning Grants for 89 projects designed to increase the state’s resilience to climate change. Of that total, $48.3 million, or 94%, will benefit disadvantaged communities throughout California. For more information about California’s transportation investments, visit RebuildingCA.ca.gov and build. ca.gov.
Murrieta/Menifee
Caltrans construction contractors continue to perform work near the cities of Menifee and Murrieta. The daytime work is between 8 a.m
and 4 p.m., with some shoulder closures in effect. Additionally, Nighttime from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. with some lane reductions in both directions of Interstate 215 may be seen. The project is to improve road surface, update shoulder rumble strips, enhance culverts, upgrade guardrails, stabilize slopes, and boost highway worker safety. Day work may continue on both directions of I-215 between Clinton Keith Road and McCall Boulevard. Commuter access will always remain open, with some shoulder closures and lane closures in effect. Watch for signage in the construction zones. Drivers should anticipate traffic delays and plan accordingly.
Hemet/Mountain Center
Caltrans continues working on the corridor improvement project on State Route 74 (Florida Ave.), in Hemet. The work zone is in Hemet from Winchester Road to Fairview Avenue for a project length of 11.2 miles. Driveway, curb ramp, sidewalk construction, paving and micro trenching are taking place. Watch for alternate route signage for business access! open during construction. Flagging operations will be primarily at night. Radar detection signs will be in place. Expect delays up to 15
minutes. There will be intermittent, short-term closures for equipment relocation and construction staging purposes. Work timelines are subject to change. Crews are monitoring and applying material to smooth out the rough zones with paving coming soon from Yale Street to Fairview Street in Valle Vista.
Caltrans also continues work on a $17.9 million bridge retrofit and upgrade project on State Route 74 (SR-74) at Strawberry Creek Bridge between Hemet and Mountain Center. The traffic signal has been discontinued and the road is now open to its full width. Flagging operations may still remain in place to complete bridge work. Bridge work is anticipated to be complete by fall 2024. Strawberry Creek Bridge daily operations: Monday to Friday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Construction schedule subject to materials availability and weather conditions
Perris
Caltrans Work crews have begun a project to provide a smoother ride for commuters on Interstate 215 running through Perris. In this work commuters may experience slowdowns and road closures until fall 2026 as the repair work on the 6.2 mile stretch of roadway will
occur on both the northbound and southbound directions between San Jacinto River Bridge and the Ramona Expressway. This $27.5 million Roadway Improvement Project is funded through Senate Bill (SB) 1, the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017. The project will refurbish the existing roads with new pavement, enhance safety, and improve accessibility on the well traveled thoroughfare in Riverside County Jurupa Valley/Riverside Caltrans is alerting the public that construction will be taking place in the City of Jurupa Valley and City of Riverside. From Wineville Road. to State Route 60, State Route 91, and Interstate 215.Weather permitting. The westbound SR 60 on-ramp at Market Street will be closed for improvements until 7 a.m. on Saturday, November 9. The work will include ramp widening and the installation of K-Rail. Please pay attention to signs notifying motorists of the upcoming lane, and ramp closures and construction zones. Drivers should anticipate traffic delays and plan ahead. Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com
SoCal Veterans Expo returns to Ontario Nov. 15 Regional leaders, organizations and businesses are partnering up to provide Veterans and the public with jobs and resources.
ONTARIO – Southern California is home to one of the largest military veteran populations in the country. On Friday, Nov. 15, the SoCal Veterans Expo will be held at the Ontario Convention Center to connect veterans with employers and resources to help them build a stable and prosperous future for themselves and their families.
It has been more than five years since the last Veterans Expo, and support is needed to ensure its success. With over 2,000 attendees expected and strong community interest in the “All Electric” theme, the event has been expanded to include multiple counties,
such as Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, and Riverside counties.
The expo planners have created a real all-electric theme titled: “Tomorrow’s Technology... Starting Today.” This expo will feature Joby Aviation’s allelectric air taxi. Joby is partnering with Uber, Delta Airlines and the Dept. of Defense. Joby Aviation is planning to begin initial operations as early as 2025. Mark Christopher Auto Dealership will be showcasing their fleet of 2025 all-electric vehicles from Cadillac, Hummer and GMC. Southern California Edison is also supporting this event as well as
staffing agencies, “Volt” and OSI Staffing will be supercharging veterans’ job search.
“If you want a job and are qualified, we’ll find the employer. If you want a job and are not qualified, we’ll get you trained. No matter what, we’ll find it together,” states Dr. Monica Christianson, Expo Chair and owner of Warrior’s Art Project. “We are looking forward to working with the community in providing the Veterans access to “thousands” of jobs and resources they need and deserve.”
The SoCal Veterans Expo is committed to helping those who have served our country, while
gaining valuable visibility and networking opportunities with business and government leaders. The expo is open to the public and free (admission and parking) to all attendees. Attendees must pre-register online.
Presenting sponsors include the California Inland Empire Council, Scouting America (IEscouts.org) and US Jobs Now. More than 60 employers and vendors will gather at the Ontario Convention Center to provide on-site job interviews, information on resources and services, including Fed Ex, ASM Global, United States Postal Service, Loma Linda, U.S. Secret Service, FBI, Pride Industries,
San Bernardino and Riverside County Sheriffs, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Crown Trucking, Volunteers of America, and more. USC and ULV will also be supporting veterans with educational opportunities. Other resources at the expo include mental health, on-site vision, medical and dental resources, online training programs, housing and banking services, and more.
For more information about the SoCal Veterans Expo, please visit www.SoCalVetExpo.org or email us at info@SoCalVetExpo.org
SALTON SEA — U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and Congressman Raul Ruiz, M.D. (D-Calif.-25) joined federal and state leaders on Oct. 15 to break ground on the expansion of the Salton Sea Species Conservation Habitat (SCH) Project. The expansion is part of the Salton Sea Management Program (SSMP), supported by a $70 million grant from the Inflation Reduction Act.
The project, located near Westmorland, aims to restore ecological value and protect regional air quality by creating ponds and wetlands, providing habitat for fish and birds, and suppressing dust. The expansion
adds 750 acres to the SCH Project, bringing the total to nearly 5,000 acres with potential growth to 8,000 acres.
“The $250 million in federal funding we secured for the Salton Sea Management Program will protect public health and restore wildlife habitat,” Padilla said. Ruiz emphasized the project’s importance to local health, environment, and the economy. The expansion is part of a multi-agency effort, including contributions from the California Natural Resources Agency and the Bureau of Reclamation, to address environmental challenges at the Salton Sea.
www.berry-bellandhall.com
The Salton Sea Species Conservation Project aims to restore ecological value and protect regional air quality by creating ponds and wetlands, providing habitat for fish and
McDonald’s says Quarter Pounder beef patties not the source of E. coli contamination
Jack Phillips The Epoch Times
McDonald’s said that beef patties used in its Quarter Pounder hamburgers were not the source of a deadly E. coli outbreak in multiple states that sparked warnings from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
On Oct. 27, the fast food giant issued a statement that Quarter Pounder beef patties tested negative for the bacterium. Federal officials had identified slivered onions used in the burgers as the likely source of the outbreak.
“Over the weekend, McDonald’s was informed that the Colorado Department of Agriculture has completed their testing, the results of which confirm that there was no detection of E. coli in the samples taken of Quarter Pounder beef patties from restaurants in this area,” the company said. “We’ve
WASHINGTON – Social Security benefits and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments for more than 72.5 million Americans will increase 2.5% in 2025, the Social Security Administration announced Oct. 10. On average, Social Security retirement benefits will increase by about $50 per month starting in January. Over the last decade the COLA increase has averaged about 2.6%.
The COLA was 3.2% in 2024. Nearly 68 million Social Security beneficiaries will see a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) beginning in January 2025. Increased payments to
been informed there is no further testing planned for beef patties.”
The company said it will now ask beef suppliers to produce a new supply of fresh beef patties for the affected areas and that the Quarter Pounder will “be available in all restaurants in the coming week.”
McDonald’s indicated it had already stopped using the slivered onions last week amid an investigation into the cause of the outbreak.
Taylor Farms, a Colorado-based supplier of the onions, recalled the products last week because of a possible E. coli contamination.
“The 900 restaurants that historically received slivered onions from Taylor Farms’ Colorado Springs facility will resume sales of Quarter Pounders without slivered onions,”
McDonald’s said in its statement.
“Those restaurants are in Colorado,
nearly 7.5 million people receiving SSI will begin on Dec. 31, 2024. (Note: Some people receive both Social Security benefits and SSI).
“Social Security benefits and SSI payments will increase in 2025, helping tens of millions of people keep up with expenses even as inflation has started to cool,” said Martin O’Malley, Commissioner of Social Security.
Some other adjustments that take effect in January of each year are based on the increase in average wages. Based on that increase, the maximum amount of earnings subject to the Social Security tax (taxable maximum) is slated to increase to $176,100
Getting back up
It was a beautiful morning. I was walking my dog, Bowie. The sun was rising, and a hot air balloon floated overhead. All was well in the world—until I jumped down from a rock, and my walking stick pierced a gopher hole, wedging itself between my legs, and my forward momentum sent me headover-heels down the hill.
Channeling my inner ninja, I turned the fall into a tuck and roll, then stood up as quickly as
possible before the people in the hot air balloon could see me. Embarrassed, I continued my walk as if nothing had happened. Stop laughing! I could have died. Have you ever fallen? We all have. But the real question is, what do you do when you fall?
When life knocks us down, we have two choices: stay down and feel sorry for ourselves or get back up and keep going. Which one do you choose?
Here are three things you can do when life knocks you down:
1. Don’t let it destroy you.
2 Corinthians 4:9 says, “We get knocked down, but we are not destroyed.” Too often, when life throws an unexpected blow, we let it destroy us. Don’t let that be you. When I fell unexpectedly down that hill, I could’ve just stayed there. Eventually, I would have died of dehydration or starvation. That would have been ridiculous! At my funeral, people would have wondered, “Why didn’t he just get back up?” Often, it’s not the fall that
Kansas, and Wyoming, as well as parts of Idaho, Iowa, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Utah.”
On Oct. 25, the CDC said in an update that about 75 people across 13 states had been sickened with E. coli, leading to one death and 22 hospitalizations in connection to the McDonald’s burgers.
The states reporting the cases were Washington, Oregon, Montana, Wyoming, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, Missouri, Wisconsin, and Michigan. Of those states, Colorado reported the most, 26.
Because of the actions taken by the two companies, the CDC said on its website that the public’s risk of E. coli infection is now “very low.”
“Most people in this outbreak are reporting eating the Quarter Pounder hamburger at McDonald’s
from $168,600.
Social Security begins notifying people about their new benefit amount by mail starting in early December.
This year, for the first time, Social Security beneficiaries will receive a newly designed and improved COLA notice that makes it easier for customers to find the information they need most. The simplified COLA notice is now only one page, uses plain and personalized language, and provides exact dates and dollar amounts of a person’s new benefit amount and any deductions. Individuals who have a personal my Social Security account can
FAITH
destroys you—it’s staying down.
2. Get back up.
There’s a proverb that says, “The godly may trip seven times, but they will get up again. But one disaster is enough to overthrow the wicked.” (Proverbs 24:16)
At a wedding, a well-dressed lady walked by me carrying a tray of chicken. Suddenly, her heel caught on the sidewalk, and she fell face-first into the food. As I rushed over to help, she looked up at me, chicken juice dripping down her face, and said, “Don’t I look beautiful?” Then she blew me a kiss.
Despite the awkwardness, do you know what she did next? She got back up!
Falling can be ugly and messy. But do you know what’s worse? Letting it keep you down. Don’t let that be you. Clean off the chicken juice and get on with life. Better days are coming.
3. Hang on to God.
Psalm 37:23-24 says, “The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their
before becoming sick. It is not yet known which specific food ingredient is contaminated,” the agency stated. At least one Colorado resident is suing McDonald’s, saying he became sick after eating there.
“There was a manufacturing defect in the products when they left Defendant’s possession and control. The products were defective because they contained E. coli. The presence of E. coli was a condition of the products that rendered them unreasonably dangerous,” the lawsuit reads in part.
It also alleged that McDonald’s “breached the implied warranty of merchantability” regarding the contamination.
Officials with the CDC and health experts say that symptoms can start three to five days after ingesting E. coli. These include severe stomach cramps, bloody
view their COLA notice online, which is secure, easy, and faster than receiving a letter in the mail. People can set up text or email alerts when there is a new message – such as their COLA notice – waiting for them in my Social Security. People will need to have a personal my Social Security account by Nov. 20 to see their COLA notice online. To get started, visit www.ssa.gov/myaccount Information about Medicare changes for 2025 will be available at www.medicare.gov. For Social Security beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare, the 2025 benefit amount will be available via my Social
diarrhea, vomiting, a low-grade fever, and a loss of appetite.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, if E. coli spreads outside the stomach, other symptoms can be present. Should the bacteria infect the urinary tract, symptoms include pelvic or abdominal pain, pain or burning sensation when urinating, an urgent need to urinate frequently, and cloudy or foulsmelling urine.
The CDC says that people who suspect they may have contracted E. coli and have severe symptoms should contact a health care provider. Severe symptoms can include a fever of 102 degrees F or higher, diarrhea for more than three days that is not improving, bloody diarrhea, vomiting so much that liquids cannot be kept down, and signs of dehydration such as not urinating often, a dry mouth and throat, and feeling dizzy when standing.
Security’s Message Center starting in late November. Those who have not opted to receive messages online will receive their COLA notice by mail in December.
The Social Security Act provides for how the COLA is calculated. The Social Security Act ties the annual COLA to the increase in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) as determined by the Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics. To read more, visit www.ssa. gov/cola
Submitted by the Social Security Administration
lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand.”
Did you know that God delights in every detail of your life? He even delights in helping you up when you fall. He’s the God who lifts us up and puts us back on track.
No matter what life throws your way—whether an unexpected fall or a poor decision—never let go of
God. He has the strength to help you get back up and move forward. Falling isn’t the end. Only God decides that, and he has a better future for you.
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.
BASEBALL from page C-1
California, Florida, and other states, came together to represent their country and build friendships that will last a lifetime. USA Baseball continues to foster the development of baseball talent nationwide, working tirelessly to maintain the sport’s popularity and accessibility. For more infor-
Team USA poses with their gold medals after securing a14-7 win over the Dominican Republic to clinch the gold medal at the WBSC U-12 Baseball World Cup Americas Qualifier. Valley News/USA Baseball courtesy photo mation on the organization, its national teams, and developmentdriven initiatives, visit the official website USABaseball.com or USABDevelops.com . Fans can also follow along with the action by following @USABaseball12U on X and @USABaseball on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Send local sports tips and info to sports@reedermedia.com.
a 96-93 victory. This win marked the end of an undefeated preseason for USC, who finished 2-0. The Trojans’ performance is a promising sign ahead of the official 2024-25 season opener, which sees them hosting UT-Chattanooga at the Galen Center on Monday, Nov. 4, at 7 p.m. This game is the first in a six-game homestand for Troy, offering fans ample opportunity to witness their team’s exceptional form.
USC’s influence extends beyond college basketball, as demonstrated by the presence of 11 former Trojans on NBA rosters at the start of the 2024-25 season.
Notably, Drew Peterson received his 2024 NBA Championship ring with the Boston Celtics, and Onyeka Okongwu posted a careerhigh 28 points on opening night. In a historic moment, Bronny James joined his father, 22-year NBA veteran LeBron James, to become the first father-son duo to play together in an NBA game. With such strong performances both on and off the college court, the USC Trojans are poised for a compelling season ahead. Fans and analysts alike will keep a close eye on their progress as they aim to build on this impressive victory over one of the nation’s top-ranked teams. Send local sports tips and info to sports@reedermedia.com
USC from page C-3
Zachary Elliott Special to the Valley News
Residents enjoy Anza Community Hall Vendor Fair
Diane Sieker Staff Writer
sells
Local artisans and crafters set up inside the Anza Community Hall for a Vendor Fair Saturday, Oct.
soaps at the Anza
offering jewelry, handmade arts, soaps, lotions, candles and luxury snacks. Delores Vasquez and Nadine Huffman teamed up to offer gently used purses for sale, with proceeds
Diane Sieker Staff Writer
The Warner Springs Artisan Guild announced their One-of-aKind Gift, Art & Craft Show at the Julian Town Hall Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 9 - 10. The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and admission is free.
“Pop into the Julian Town Hall to discover truly special gifts for your truly special people,” said Guild member Liisa Kyle. “Support local artists while browsing original paintings and photography as well as hand-painted ornaments, hand-made cards, one-of-a-kind glass work, custom leatherwork, plus hand-crafted woodwork, pottery, and jewelry. These unique offerings make great gifts for every budget.”
see SHOW, page D-3
Rho Goldberg will display her rope bowls, textiles and holiday decor at the Warner Springs Artisan Guild’s One-of-a-Kind Gift, Art & Craft Show in Julian Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 9 - 10.
Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo
donated to the Elsinore Valley Pregnancy Resource Center.
“This was my first time being a vendor at the Anza Community Hall” said Huffman. “We were fundraising by selling purses and backpacks. Thank you to those who supported our efforts.” Shoppers enjoyed the atmosphere inside the Hall as they browsed a large variety of items.
throughout the coming months. The Anza Community Hall
Rebecca Stewart
her artisan
Community Hall Vendor Fair Saturday, Oct. 19.
Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo
Anza
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. Please also email us if any of these listings have new or updated information. Thank you!
Regular Happenings
Anza Farmers’ Market
Located at 56333 Highway 371, Anza farmers’ market hours are every Thursday from 4 p.m. to 8pm through October. Various farmers, musicians, artisans and food vendors set up weekly. Ample parking in the field and lot to the west and east of the field. The market is operated by the High Country Conservancy, a 501(c)(3), and is a California
JULIE REEDER,
GUGEL,
Editorial
SHANE GIBSON, Staff Photographer
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
certified farmers market. Market
Manager Annika Knoppel can be reached at 951-234-1314 or email anzafarmersmarket@gmail.com
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.”
Mobile Food Pantry – Anza Electric Cooperative and F.I.N.D.
Food Bank offers a free mobile food pantry the second Saturday of every month at the AEC office, 58470 Highway 371, from 10:3011:30 a.m. All are welcome. CalFresh application assistance and free community health services are also available. Bring your own reusable bags to take food home. Volunteers welcome. For more information, contact the AEC office at 951-763-4333.
Friends of Anza Valley Community Library – Anza Valley Community Library is located at Hamilton High School, 57430 Mitchell Road. The library is open to the public, but not during school hours. Hours are 4-7 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m.4 p.m. Saturday and 12-4 p.m. on Sunday. Closed Monday through Wednesday.
Hamilton High School – Find out what is happening using Hamilton’s online calendar at www.hamiltonbobcats.net/apps/ events/calendar
Hamilton Museum – 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Open Wednesdays and Saturdays at 39991 Contreras Road in Anza. For more information, call 951-763-1350 or visit www. hamiltonmuseum.org. Find them on Facebook at “HamiltonMuseum-and-Ranch-Foundation.”
Backcountry Horsemen Redshank Riders – Meetings on the second Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. Locations change, so please contact Mike by email at stumblinl55@gmail.com or by calling 951-760-9255.
Health, exercise, resources and recovery meetings
Fit after 50 – 10:30-11:30 a.m. Tuesday and Friday mornings at Anza Community Hall. Free. Wear comfortable clothes and supportive shoes. Call or text instructor Teresa Hoehn at 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 once a week on Fridays from 6-8 p.m. Program is court approved. The group meets at Valley Gospel Chapel, located at 43275 Chapman Road, 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 Highway 371, Anza. For more information, 951763-4759.
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 Highway 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 Hwy 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
Friends of the Anza Valley Library and the Anza Civic Improvement League form beneficial partnership
Diane Sieker Staff Writer
The Friends of the Anza Valley Library and the Anza Civic Improvement League have partnered in a new venture to provide imaginative events for the community.
The two nonprofit organizations are collaborating to provide a space for the Anza Valley Community Library to host fun and educational experiences at the Little Red Schoolhouse at Minor Park. Story times, crafts and other educational activities are planned.
Additionally, every month the Friends group will clean the School House and grounds the day before the planned Library event.
“You can even sign up for a library card. This is a win-win-win all around,” said librarian Kay Mackay.
The Anza Valley Community Library will present a Pop-up storytime at the Little Red School House the second Tuesday of the month at 10:30 a.m.
“Volunteers are very welcome to help the Friends group do cleanup the second Monday of the month,” Mackay said.
The Friends of the Anza Library is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit whose mission is to support and promote the Anza Valley Community Library through fundraising and advocacy.
The Friends group seeks financial donations and volunteers. Learn more at www.friendsofanzalibrary. org , follow them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ groups/friendsofanzapubliclibrary or email friendsofanzalibrary@ gmail.com . The Anza Valley Library is a joint-use public library, located inside Hamilton High School, but a completely separate entity. It is part of the Riverside County Library System, located at 57430 Mitchell Road, Anza. Staff may be reached by calling 951-763-4216.
To learn more about the Anza Valley Community Library, click https://www.facebook.com/ AnzaLibrary
The ACIL manages the Little Red Schoolhouse and Minor Park, which is not a public park, receiving no funding from county or state tax dollars. The park and school building are the centerpieces of the town and a hub of activity. From concert series
The Friends of the Anza Valley Library and the Anza Civic Improvement League have partnered together in an exciting new venture to provide fun and educational events for the community.
and festivals to car shows and horseshoe tossing contests, the park is one of the highly trafficked special places in Anza. Both the park and the schoolhouse are available to rent
Heather Lara - scratchboard, metal prints, ornaments
Val Vinson - hand-crafted pottery, fused glass artwork
Anza Valley Outlook/Courtesy photo
for meetings and events.
Open board meetings are held at the Little Red Schoolhouse on the first Saturday of the month at 9 a.m., and the community is invited to attend.
The Julian Town Hall is located at 2129 Main St. in Julian. For details on this event, please visit: www.bit.ly/WarnerSpringsEvent
Learn more about Warner Springs Artisan Guild at www. warnerspringsartisanguild. com, www.instagram.com/ warner_springs_artisan_guild/ and www.facebook.com/ warnerspringsartisanguild.
Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia. com
Legal Advertising
Run your legal notices in the Anza Valley Outlook, adjudicated
n Application Order for Publication of Summons/Citation ..........$400 for 4 Weeks
n Notice of Petition to Administer Estate ....................................$300 for 3 Weeks
n Order to Show Cause for Change of Name................................. $90 for 4 Weeks
n Fictitious Business Name Statement ..........................................$58 for 4 Weeks
(Each additional name after two $3.00 each)
n Abandonment of Fictitious Business Name Statement ..............$48 for 4 Weeks
n Notice of Sale of Abandoned Property .......................................$80 for 2 Weeks
Deadline: Fridays at 3pm for following week’s publication.
Minor Park and the Little Red Schoolhouse are located at Highway 371 at Contreras Road in Anza.
To learn more about the ACIL, visit them on Facebook or at http:// www.anzacivic.org . To join the ACIL, visit http://anzacivic.org/
join.html or call 951-330-4411. Their email is anzacivic@gmail. com Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia. com
in San Jacinto and Menifee • Named #1 “Best of Inland Empire 2024: Best Career College/Nursing School” by Press-Enterprise readers8/25/24
Volunteers make stories come alive during pop-up storytime. Anza
Valley Outlook/Courtesy photo
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 Oct. 21 through Oct. 27. Oct. 21
Narcotics - 5600 block St. Hwy 371, Anza, handled by deputy
Check the welfare - 4900 block Old Stage Rd./Barbara Trl., Anza, handled by deputy
Battery - 5800 block Reynolds Wy., Anza, report taken Off road vehicle - 4300 block Foolish Pleasure Rd., Anza, handled by deputy
block Bogota Rd./Bailey Rd., Anza, handled by deputy
Suspicious person - 4200 block Labrinia Ln., Anza, handled by deputy
Animal abuse - 5400 block Cave Rock Rd., Anza, handled by deputy
Civil dispute - 3900 block W. Anza Trails, Anza, handled by deputy
Follow-up - address withheld, Anza, handled by deputy
Assist other department - 4900 block Kiowa Dr., Lake Riverside, handled by deputy
Assist other department - 3800 block Alessandro Dr., Anza, report taken Oct. 26
Noise complaint - 4300 block Cowboy Country Rd., Anza, handled by deputy Civil dispute - 3900 block W. Anza Trails, Anza, handled by deputy Public disturbance - 5900 block
Burnt Valley Rd., Anza, handled by deputy
Vehicle theft - 6100 block Spanish Dagger Ln., Anza, report taken Burglary - 5300 block St. Hwy. 371, Anza, report taken Area check - 3900 block Cary Rd., Anza, handled by deputy Oct. 27 No calls 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, 909987-5005 or https://wetip.com Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia. com
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The Sheriff’s Blotter enables residents to know what criminal activity or emergency is occurring in their communities.
Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo
Delores Esparza shows off her decorative wares at the Anza Community Hall Vendor Fair Saturday, Oct. 19.
Fine silver jewelry is offered at the Anza Community Hall Vendor Fair. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photos
Handmade gloves and more are displayed for sale at the Anza Community Hall Vendor Fair Saturday.
Delores Vasquez, left, and Nadine Huffman team up to offer gently used purses for sale at the Anza Community Hall Vendor Fair.
Unique handmade soaps and lotions are local favorites offered by Rebecca Stewart at the Anza Community Hall Vendor Fair.
OPINION
Editorial: Why Are Democrats and Republicans so divided on non citizens voting?
Julie Reeder Publisher
Dear editor Julie,
Regarding your opinion of the lawfare directed at Elon Musk.
Well, you’ve gone and done it, you’ve defended a Trump supporter. The left are by now arming themselves with their word processor pitchforks and torches, to now be pointed at you!
I for one applaud you for sticking up for Elon’s rights because that’s how our American system of values works. You defend your rights by defending others.
The left no longer cares about our American values and our Bill of Rights and The Constitution FOR The United States. They care about is incarcerating an innocent man because he is in their way, their way to a communist hell that Constitutionalist folks like me will have to live in if they get their way.
addition to many examples of voter fraud, just in the last few weeks, all across the country.
I differentiate between leadership and the masses because I think that’s where we probably have the most disparity. Because people believe only citizens should be able to vote doesn’t make them haters, fascists, or racists.
Republicans have been working to uphold the principle that only American citizens should vote in American elections. In key states, like Virginia, Arizona, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, and Texas, efforts have been made to clean up voter rolls by removing noncitizens. Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin signed an executive order in August to address this issue, but the Biden administration quickly stepped in, filing lawsuits to prevent the removal of noncitizens from the rolls. In Alabama, when Secretary of State Wes Allen identified over 3,000 registered voters who were noncitizens, the Biden-Harris DOJ sued to halt the process, citing concerns about voter confusion. But what is more confusing than allowing noncitizens to participate in U.S. elections?
Some Utopia! There is a small bit of constructive criticism of like to run past you. You mentioned the US government is a “Legitimate”.
Our govt is not legitimate. The role of a legitimate govt is to serve We The People. A corporation’s role is to make a profit for its shareholders. When the House did not stand in 1861, the war started at Ft. Sumpter because the North couldn’t survive without the Souths taxes.
When the house reassembled after the (Un) Civil War, the govt was a corporation (28 USC 3002. Chapter 15a.).
We then needed funds to pay for the war debt and reconstruction, so we borrowed the cash from the Bank of London and Crown that we rebelled against in 1776.
The Democrats’ actions raise serious questions about their motivations. In Virginia, a federal judge ordered the state to reinstate individuals who had self-identified as noncitizens. Why is this happening? The answer could be simple: noncitizens are more likely to vote Democrat, and Democrats want to secure every possible vote—even if it means undermining election integrity.
We’ve seen this before. The Biden administration’s decision to reopen the border in 2020 resulted in a continuous flood of illegal immigrants, many of whom were instructed to “remember to vote for Biden” before they crossed the border. While it may be confusing for them now that Biden isn’t on the ticket, Democrats are clearly betting that illegal immigrants, once granted voting rights, will continue to support their party.
Meanwhile, Republicans, like Governor Youngkin and Texas Governor Greg Abbott, are leading the charge to protect the sanctity of the vote. Abbott, for instance, purged more than 6,500 noncitizens from the Texas voter rolls, but Texas has not been sued by the DOJ—yet. Republicans are
The proviso for the loan was the passing of the Organic Act of 1871 and the illegitimate 14th Amendment.
This new legal system is modeled from Old English Sea Commerce called “Admiralty Law”or MARITIME LAW. This new court “set aside” the Founder’s Common Law, aka Land Law, for Maritime Law. This system forced all previously free newborn Americans to now be US (inc) “CITIZENS”. Check it out in the US codes CITIZEN means “Chattel” or slave. In our case, a debt slave.
Now we must give them our money every April 15th because when they gave us a slave number, aka a Social Security number, they incorporated us into their lawfare system.
pushing back and fighting in the courts, passing laws like Arizona’s proof-of-citizenship requirement. However, in Sept. 2024, the Arizona Supreme Court ruled that nearly 98,000 people whose citizenship documents hadn’t been confirmed could vote in the upcoming election. Remember how slim the margin was in that election in 2020? Those slim margins decided votes all across the country. In some counties there were more votes than voters. Take California as an example. When the Huntington Beach City Council—run by Republicans— proposed a simple voter ID requirement for municipal elections, the Democrat-controlled state legislature swiftly passed a law banning such requirements statewide. Why would Democrats oppose a common-sense measure like voter ID? Hans von Spakovsky of the Heritage Foundation points out that Democrats have consistently resisted efforts to clean up voter rolls, often suing states that try to remove dead or inactive voters. Their desire for inaccurate voter lists is clear— more voters, legal or not, could mean more votes for them.
But we were born in the geographical borders of the United States of America, not at Sea.
Any citizen may legally step out of their citizenSHIP in Admiralty Law and back to the Founder’s Common Law by correcting their status. This is a normal legal process. Folks have been correcting their status for decades. If anyone sends you mail with your name in all caps, you are still a Bank of London slave. Once corrected, we are no longer required to their phoney income taxes. The more we pay, the more we are feeding the slave masters. Phoney because when we are compensated for our labor, it’s not “income”. That’s only for corporations. So when we correct out status, we are no longer incorporated and so no longer
This debate isn’t just about policy; it’s about the future of our Constitutional Republic. It shouldn’t be a Republican vs Democrat issue either, but it appears to be divided by party.
As we approach November 5th, Republicans are fighting to keep elections fair and secure, ensuring that only citizens can vote. Democrats, on the other hand, are pushing for policies that could fundamentally change the landscape of our elections by including noncitizens in the process.
The stakes are high. The outcome of these battles—both in the courts and in the state legislatures—will have lasting consequences. Will we protect the integrity of our elections, or will we allow them to be influenced by people who didn’t even respect the US enough to enter legally, as millions did per year before them?I don’t believe they should be legally entitled to vote. Only time will tell, but it seems my Democrat friends and my Republican friends should agree that we need to uphold the fundamental principle that only citizens should decide the future of our country.
owe. When the govt needs fiat currency, aka the USD, Congress drafts a budget. Then the Federal Reserve, a private corporation, puts up the bonds and loans the US GOV inc. the money. Income taxes go directly to the international Banksters that the Fed is part of. There are a reported 10 million American State Nationals now and more every day! But yet we hear nothing about it in the propaganda news corporations. Let’s take back our Heritage. Correct your status today. I did. Go to https://tasa. americanstatenationals.org/ correct-your-status.
Thomas “Tom” Stephan Anza
Do you realize knowledge makes you an in uencer?
Do you believe democracy dies in the darkness? Is your time valuable? Is authenticity important to you? Is freedom of speech important to you?
Is vetted, trustworthy local reporting and information regarding crime, schools, tra c, water, and city council a priority for you?
Then please consider supporting your local independent Valley News for as low as $1.25 a week.
It’s a smart investment. Our editorial staff alone puts in 400 to 500 hours a week reporting on what is happening.
For exclusive content and early access, sign up at myvalleynews.com/subscribe or call 951-763-5510.
Please don’t wait, this is important and timely, we need our community to stand with us while we report truthfully the news of our day.
