Valley News - November 15, 2024 by Village News, Inc.

Proposed Menifee warehouse project approval appealed by the City of Perris is continued

Tony

Ault Staff Writer

The Menifee City Council reviewed another request by the City of Perris to appeal a decision by the Menifee Planning Commission to approve a proposed 700,000 square foot warehouse project in the northwest portion of the city. The council, after a detailed explanation of the appeal and the staff’s response, continued the public hearing until Nov. 20.

Hemet State of City provides a picture of growth and prosperity by Mayor Joe Males

Tony

Ault Staff Writer

Hemet Mayor Joe Males promoted his city as “Building a Prosperous Tomorrow, Today” in the annual State of the City Address on Thursday, Nov. 7 at the Hemet Public Library. More than 200 guests were in attendance to hear of the city’s accomplishments in the past few years with the newest city council in attendance.

see page A-5

Caltrans changing some ‘Airspace’ uses under, over and beside highways for fire reasons

Tony

Ault Staff Writer

Several fires on properties under, over and next to freeway and highway bridges earlier this year that temporarily closed the busy highways above have brought some changes to the California Department of Transportation’s “Airspace Lease” program.

San Jacinto Valley community turns out to support veterans

with the Flags of Freedom project in

Valley News/Diane A. Rhodes photo flag committee for the Exchange Club, said, “For me, it’s an honor to serve our community. I was not born here so I did not have the

show of support for veterans and their families. Lakshman Koka, who heads the

Volbrecht Rotary Chalk Walk artwork celebrates Veterans Day in Murrieta

Julie Reeder Publisher

Below is a summary of the winners of local races from the November 5, 2024 General Election in the Southwest Riverside County Valley News coverage area. The biggest upsets locally were in school board races. Former TVUSD School Board President Dr. Komrosky was re-elected in Trustee Area 4, after being recalled by One Temecula PAC in June. Dr. Joseph Komrosky ran both times on a conservative platform of back to basics in education, restricting Critical Race Theory (CRT)in the classroom, supporting parental notification, removing sexually explicit age-inappropriate

American Legion Post 53 members, from left, Aree Williams Jr., Hemet Mayor Joe Males and Robert Farris lend

hand

Hemet.

A portrait by Meg Beverly Canilang is displayed at the Vollbrecht Rotary Chalk Walk during the Field of Honor at Town Square Park in Murrieta. See more photos on page A-6.

A patriotic street painting by Shawndell Smith is displayed at the Vollbrecht Rotary Chalk Walk during the Field of Honor at Town Square Park in Murrieta Nov. 9-10. Valley News/Shane Gibson photos

NW Menifee proposed warehouse project approval appealed by the City of Perris is continued

Ault Staff Writer

Another warehouse project in that part of the city near the Ethanac Road city border was also recently appealed by Perris, but that project was ultimately approved and their appeal denied.

This time Perris was appealing the proposed 40-acre, 700,000 square foot CADO Warehouse project south of Ethanac Road between Wheat Street and Byers Road, seeing it as having a negative effect on traffic and the environment in the area to both cities.

Perris made the appeal for six

specific reasons. They included an incomplete project description; how it would negatively impact on the Briggs and Barnett intersection of Ethanac Road; and insufficient analysis of the project’s greenhouse gas emissions, state and global air quality standards for reducing the climate change, and giving no project alternatives.

Menifee City staff responded that the project did not need to meet CEQA standards, would have no effect on the Briggs and Barnett intersections, and the air quality and greenhouse emissions standards would not endanger future health standards for the residents or workers in the area. It was determined the possible greenhouse gas emissions would exceed the state standards in the future but it was unavoidable because of the current auto and truck emissions.

Councilmember Bob Karwin still questioned how the project could be approved although it exceeded the limited 3,000 CHG global greenhouse gas emission limit that

would be produced by the project when completed. It was estimated the project would produce about 4,000 CHG when completed. It was explained that first it would not injure worker or resident health, but is a measure of what effect it would have on global climate change.

CADO plans to do everything it can to mitigate the problem with solar panels, filters and hopefully see it reduced by the state effort to reduce fossil fuel use with electric vehicles and other methods in the future, according to the report.

Other questions by the council were answered but it was the city attorney’s recommendation that the council look into some of those state and federal procedures and standards before coming back with an answer, and to continue the public hearing until then. The council unanimously approved the continuation until the next meeting Nov. 20.

The council was pleased to present an award of appreciation to Marine Corps Master Gunnery

Sergeant Arthur “Artie” Allen II and selected him as a hometown hero. The fully uniformed MGySgt. Allen served in three combat tours during Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom and in Afghanistan. He earned the Legion of Merit and Outstanding Service and became a top Marine drill sergeant. He is also the leader of the Riverside County Veterans’ Services and other Menifee veterans organizations. He became the keynote speaker in the Menifee Veterans Day event Nov. 11. He plans to retire from service soon.

Allen, in full dress uniform with rows of golden medals, admitted a number of health problems but thanked the council for the honor, saying he was mostly proud of helping the young people in the schools and community to learn about the advantages of military services and many other youth support programs since he has lived in Menifee.

Councilmember Lesa Sobek called upon the city fire chief to again explain why city fire ap -

paratus was being used so often in the neighboring cities of Perris, Canyon Lake and sometimes Wildomar. He responded they were indeed discussing the unbalanced mutual aid respons es with the county. City Manager Armando Villa assured Sobek and the council he too was working with the fire chief and the county fire chief to find ways to resolve the issue. A total of 21 consent items were approved by the city council with four members of the community speaking during the public comment period. Two of the speakers were critical of newest Councilmember Ricky Estrada’s achievements so far on the governing body. There were a number of union workers during the public hearing on the warehouse project asking the council to approve the CADO project which promises to bring them local work in Menifee where their families live. Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com.

Tony

A 700,000 sq. ft. warehouse is planned south of Ethanac Rd. between Wheat Street and Byers Road in Menifee. Valley News/Courtesy photos

The city of Perris is appealing the proposed 40-acre project due to its potentially negative impact to the area.

Hemet Heritage Foundation and Hemet Museum to host presentation

‘The

Early Development of Lake Hemet Dam’

HEMET - Join the Hemet Heritage Foundation and Hemet Museum for a presentation on the development of Lake Hemet Dam. Not many people realize that up in the San Jacinto Mountains sits a historical feature that was not only an amazing accomplishment in its time, but also a keystone in the development of the City of Hemet.

Bob Norman, a longtime resident of the San Jacinto Valley, will lay out what was accomplished in the late 1800s to help bring about a new town in one corner of the arid lands of the southern San Jacinto Valley.

This presentation takes place at Memorial Funeral Services, located at 1111 S. State Street in Hemet, and open to the public. Complimentary refreshments will be served. Doors open at 6 p.m. with the presentation starting at 6:30 p.m. There is no admission charge but donations are very much appreciated. Any proceeds from the event

from page A-1

opportunity to serve this country in the military so I want to serve the community in any way that I can.” Koka was born in India and came to America as a teenager.

At 6 a.m., David McDonough of Hemet pulled his flatbed trailer filled with all the rolled-up flags onto the park’s grassy area nearest the Hemet Veterans Memorial. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints in Hemet provides a storage unit for the flags during the year. McDonough joined the Exchange Club to keep active in the community. “My father was in the club, and I followed in his footsteps,” he said.

Hemet Mayor Joe Males is the former Post Commander for American Legion Post 53 in Hemet. The Marine Corps veteran said he got involved in helping each year “because of Koka, a man I look up to.” Post members Robert Farris (Second Vice Commander) and Aree Williams Jr., are both U.S. Army veterans who were lending a hand with the flag placement. Williams is part of the Post’s Honor Guard participating in Monday’s ceremony.

Christine Formica was able to secure at least 50 volunteers through www.justserve.org that lists volunteerism opportunities in the community. She has been assisting, alongside her husband Ed Formica, since the Flags of Freedom project began.

“In 2020, some people thought we shouldn’t do it because of COVID but we came and did it on a smaller scale, wearing masks and keeping six feet apart, of course,” she said. “It was so uplifting. Cars were honking as they passed by, and it just added to this project’s continuity.”

Koka said JROTC cadets and Explorers participate each year, as well as many club members from local high schools looking for projects to fulfill their high school

will go to support the mission of the Hemet Museum. Donations can be made by visiting www. thehemetmuseum.org or mailing a check to Hemet Heritage Foundation, P.O. Box 334, Hemet CA 92546.

The Hemet Museum, operated entirely by volunteers, presents a panorama of local history in the freight house of Hemet’s Historic Santa Fe Depot. The freight house portion of the depot was built in 1898 and is one of the oldest structures in the downtown area. Lovingly restored by Save Our Station, the depot has been Hemet Museum’s home since 1998. Regular hours of operation are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Friday through Sunday. Save the date Dec. 9 for Hemet Heritage Foundation and Hemet Museum’s holiday party with entertainment by Rocky Zharp. For further information, please call 951-929-4409. Submitted by Hemet Heritage Foundation and Hemet Museum.

graduation requirement of community service hours. Christine Formica was happy to help them get certified for the time they spent setting up the 3-ft.x 5-ft. flags.

The process is a group holds up rope in a straight line so rebar can be laid down on the ground under it. Once the rebar has been pounded into the ground, the hollowed-out flagpoles can be easily placed over each one.

Exchange Club member Mike Gow has been volunteering every year since the project began. He helps out by providing off road vehicles that can hold the 1,776 pieces of rebar in the beds.

Koka said the sea of flags represents something different to everyone and many people visit the park just to walk among the flags and reflect. Some are veterans, some have lost family members to war, and some are just proud patriots. “Everybody has a story,”

Koka said.

The concrete walkway that leads to the entrance of the Hemet Veterans Memorial that is fenced off from the park, is flanked with memorial flags. Anyone is free to donate $35 to have a yellow ribbon added to the flagpole that honors someone or just supports the project.

Kevin Harrison of Hemet has close friends in the Exchange Club and is happy to help take care of the flags. “I was there to help put this together back then,” said Harrison, who served in the U.S. Navy for two years. “I appreciate what this means not only to veterans who have served but to America. The flag has so much meaning. They call me the keeper of the flags and I feel that these are like my children.”

Harrison takes flags to the Hemet Veterans Memorial for Memorial Day, the Fourth of July and Flag Day when the branch of service flags are posted there.

Jeremiah Herterich, who works for Bullard, a global company that

Regions’ veterans and active duty service members take part in a Veterans Expo in Murrieta

Hosted by Sen. Kelly Seyarto

Tony Ault Staff Writer

Many area veterans and active duty service members were in attendance at the annual Veterans Expo hosted by 32nd District Senator Kelly Seyarto, held at Monteleone Meadows in Murrieta on Thursday, Nov. 7.

By noon, more than 150 veterans and service members and their families were treated to more than 100 vendors and exhibits all focusing on the many services and opportunities offered by area churches, nonprofits, medical organizations, housing groups, veterans organizations and many others. A free Which Wich luncheon was offered along with entertainment.

Sen. Seyarto visited the many veterans and organizations along with his staff members with Riverside County 3rd District Supervisor Chuck Washington also attending.

Seyarto said, “The purpose of this event is trying to connect our veterans in this region or wherever they are, to the services and organizations that are out here to the veterans in this region with the specific purpose of helping them and attempting to connect them with the persons they are to meet. Once a year we have an expo like this that brings all the resources we can to them.”

He said to the veterans, “This region is filled with communities who are really, really behind our veterans. That is why we welcome them to live in these regions and when they do come here, we want them to be connected to the resources they need in their situations and to help them live the lives they deserve and assure them we too are living the lives we want, because of them.”

He added this region has the resources from schools to hospitals, housing and job opportunities, all

in hopes to have veterans settle in the area.

The veterans were provided a bag with some special items, like the 224-page CalVet Veterans Resource book, which features locations and contact information for services provided, including special needs such as helper dogs, housing loans, law enforcement and other job opportunities along with financial help for their continuing education they may have postponed during their service time. Other veterans and prayer groups and mental health organizations reached out to offer them any special spiritual and moral help they may need.

Monteleone Meadows is located at 35245 Briggs Road in Murrieta and offers a banquet hall and picturesque gardens for parties, special events and weddings.

Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com

Valley-Wide oﬀers free golf to military members

Veterans Appreciation week runs through Nov. 18 at Echo Hills Golf Course

HEMET - Valley-Wide Recreation and Park District has designated Nov. 11-18 as Veterans Appreciation Week at Echo Hills Golf Course in Hemet. Retired and active-duty members of the military may play one free round of golf per day. On behalf of Valley-Wide Rec-

makes training and safety equipment for firefighters, has been volunteering for years and has family members who are veterans. “It’s a great way to pay respect to them,” he said, as he was joined by three of his five children that morning. “I think it’s important that they learn that everything comes at a cost. This gives us an opportunity of teaching our young ones that freedom is not free.” He said paying homage to those who served this country by putting out all these flags for Veterans Day is “the least we can do.”

Kirby Herterich, 12, said, “It makes me feel good to be here. I get to see how the magic happens.”

Lily Herterich celebrates her 17th birthday on Veterans Day. “Once I was old enough to comprehend, I thought it was really cool and so special to share a holiday that is so important to this country.”

Cyndi Lemke, the Business Development Officer for Legacy Bank and former Executive Director for the Hemet San Jacinto Chamber of Commerce, said she started volunteering with the Flags of Freedom project to honor her late father who served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. She has also gotten to know many of the veterans from American Legion Post 848 in San Jacinto.

“That’s why I do so much for veterans,” Lemke said. “It makes me feel closer to my dad. It’s so important that every veteran knows that there is help out there for them.”

Porter Rusche, 12, was volunteering for the third year, doing whatever was needed. “My great grandpa was a veteran,” he said. Victoria Shockey, 17, has been helping since she was very young. Her father, Steve Shockey, is a Marine Corps veteran and was one of the early arrivers at 6 a.m. to help plot out the morning’s activities.

reation’s Board of Directors and the entire staff, they would like to thank the troops for their dedication and service. They acknowledge and recognize the service members who have made great sacrifices to ensure our freedoms.

Tee times must be scheduled in advance and veterans must present

their identification. To schedule a tee time between 6:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., call 951-652-2203. The course is at 545 E. Thornton Ave. in Hemet. Submitted by Valley-Wide Recreation and Park District.

Matt Huff, who teaches physical education at McSweeney Elementary, was appointed the unofficial director of the event and used his PE teacher voice to galvanize the group into action. He was very effective and with all the extra hands pitching in, the job was completed in just a couple of hours.

www.berry-bellandhall.com

“Anything and everything can be done if you have a good group of volunteers and we sure did this morning,” Koka said.

Veronica Damian-Hawkes is the Executive Director for The Greater Hemet-San Jacinto Chamber of Commerce and when she learned about the event at the Nov. 7 Hemet State of the City address, she committed to being there. “It’s nice to be able to come together as

a community,” she said. “It’s an honor to be able to come out to do this for our veterans.”

David McDonough furnishes the flatbed trailer that is used to transport 1,776 flags to Gibbel Park each year. Valley News/Diane A. Rhodes photos

Jeremiah Herterich with three of his five children volunteer their time to the Flags for Freedom project. In front of him, from left, are Lily, 17, Enoch, 13, and Kirby, 12.

Ed Formica prepares to push a piece of rebar into the ground with help from Porter Rusche, 12, while his wife, Christine Formica looks on.

The City’s 10 a.m. The Veteran’s Day ceremony commemorates the brave service of local heroes, ensuring their legacies are forever

honored. Following the ceremony, community members could enjoy festivities and access veteranrelated services at the park. Gibbel Park is at 2350 W. Latham Ave. in Hemet at the northwest corner of Kirby and Florida avenues.

FLAGS

A snowy winter day at Lake Hemet Dam. Valley News/Courtesy photo

Hemet State of City provides a picture of growth and prosperity by Mayor Joe Males

Tony

Ault Staff Writer

Males in his address recalled that about 10 years ago Hemet faced a crucial financial time, but during that time much has changed. “But, because of its resiliency, Hemet faced these storms and had a remarkable comeback. I am proud to say our city is on an ambitious path of econom ic recovery and revitalization.” He continued looking at the city’s future saying it will make the city, “more vibrant, more prosperous and more connected than ever.”

He spoke on some of the city’s economic strategies. It included creating places where its residents can gather on improved road conditions across the city including having Caltrans pave Florida Avenue with the city repaving the streets inside the city’s main economic driver, the Auto Mall. He described three new programs to enhance the city landscape including trash enclosure, hotel investment and the $900,000 downtown facade improvement programs.

The Historic Hemet Theater, Males continued, will soon begin an “ambitious expansion project” by doubling its seating capacity from approximately 400 seats to almost 1,000 seats with the purchase of the 13,000 square foot empty building adjacent to the theater on the east.

Included in the city economic enhancement, Males said the city working in partnership with Palm Communities is one of 17 agencies to receive state funding from the strategic roads council for a $35 million affordable housing and sustainable communities program. The communities program will be located at the northwest corner of State Street and Menlo Avenue that will bring 157 portable housing units to the city. It will include a bike lane and pedestrian walkway

along the downtown railroad rightof-way and a new mobility hub in partnership with the Riverside Transit Agency. He said, “I am proud of the progress we are making together.”

He said in the dining area the city will soon be introducing “Restaurant Week.” to showcase the city’s culinary talent to feature special menus and discounts. Adding to its efforts to enhance community business the city will also improve their permitting and business requirement procedures. He said for business we, “Want a red carpet rather than red tape.” He also noted the city has made progress in the city’s public safety including more flock cameras, a joint polce/ fire information center and a $2.5 million retail crime prevention program grant a community retail theft police program.

He concluded by saying by working together “We are building a brighter and more prosperous Hemet… with success within reach of everyone.” In that he praised the Hemet Beautification program that brought 400 volunteers.

Riverside County 5th District Supervisor Yxstain Gutierrez made an appearance during the mayor’s address.

A video going in depth of some of the programs taking place in the city followed with many city staff and Hemet City Manager Mark Prestwich describing the work being done.

During the event the guests were treated to an excellent dinner catered by Destination Smokehouse, a premier eating establishment in the city and DJ music by Mystique Player Ben Sandoval, City Economic Development Manager, introduced the many dignitaries. Welcoming the many guests was Kevin Sauders from the Hemet Chamber of Commerce. The Presentation of

Baseball Resource Group hosts Community Day at Lakeland Village Sports Park

Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony with Riverside County Supervisors and Free Youth Baseball Clinic

LAKE ELSINORE – Baseball Resource Group (BRG) is excited to announce its upcoming Community Day, scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 16, at Lakeland Village Sports Park (16275 Grand Ave, Lake Elsinore). This event promises a full day of community engagement, youth development, and a special ribbon-cutting ceremony with Riverside County Supervisors, Kevin Jeffries (1st District) and Karen Spiegel (2nd District), as BRG continues its mission to inspire and support youth athletes in Southern California.

The day kicks off with an early check-in at 7 a.m.. Following check-in, BRG will host a free youth baseball clinic from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. for boys and girls ages 8 to 12 interested in sharpening their skills on the field. This clinic will focus on fundamental techniques, teamwork, and game appreciation, with a maximum of 50 participants to ensure personalized instruction. Spaces are limited, so early arrival is encouraged.

At 10 a.m., Riverside County Supervisors Kevin Jeffries and Karen Spiegel will lead a ribboncutting ceremony to celebrate the strengthened partnership between Riverside County and BRG, marking a new chapter in youth sports and community development at Lakeland Village Sports Park. This ceremony highlights BRG’s commitment to providing high-quality baseball and softball programming for youth, emphasizing teamwork,

discipline, and character building.

Following the ceremony, BRG will host three exhibition games throughout the day, with the first game starting at 12 p.m., and two additional games at 2 p.m. Attendees can look forward to a day of food, fun, and networking with a village of coaches, players, and families, along with opportunities to visit the snack bar, participate in raffles for prizes, and explore advertising and sponsorship options with BRG. Visitors can also stop by the BRG booth to learn more about the organization’s mission and membership opportunities.

About Baseball Resource Group (BRG) Baseball Resource Group (BRG) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit

organization dedicated to the development, mentorship, and training of young baseball and softball athletes in Southern California.

Founded by former MLB players, coaches, and scouts, BRG combines professional-level instruction with community-building initiatives to provide accessible, high-quality programs for youth athletes. BRG is committed to fostering the growth of studentathletes by creating pathways to college and professional baseball opportunities through year-round training, coaching clinics, and community events. Learn more at baseballresourcegroup.org.

Submitted by Baseball Resource Group.

Colors was made by the Hemet Police Department’s Honor Guard. Hemet Mayor Pro Tem Jackie Peterson led the pledge of allegiance with the national anthem sung by Mari a Lehman. Pastor Dale Garland gave the invocation. Sandoval closed the State of the City.

Sponsors for the evening event were SRCAR, CR&R, Airtopia, AMR, SoCalGas, Perris Flowers, EPD Solutions, EMWD, Weathertight Roofing, LCA Metals Co., Altura Credit Union and Shine City. Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com.

More than 200 guests enjoy dinner before Joe Males, Mayor of the City of Hemet gives the annual State of the City

address Nov. 7 at the second floor of the Hemet Public Library.

Valley News/Tony Ault photos

Hemet City Councilman Malcolm Lilienthal talks with Hemet Firefighters during the annual State of the City event at the Hemet Public Library

A smiling Joe Males, mayor of the City of Hemet, greets dignitaries and residents at the annual State of the City address November 7.

An upcoming Community Day, sponsored by Baseball Resource Group (BRG), is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 16, at Lakeland Village Sports Park

Valley News/Courtesy photo

Flags fly for Veterans Day at Murrieta Field of Honor

Murrieta City Council District 3: Lisa DeForest - 50.72%

ELECTIONS from page A-1

incumbents Lori Stone and Lisa DeForest were re-elected. Matt Rahn was elected again onto the Temecula City Council after a break to run for higher office. James “Stew” Stewart and Jessica Alexander were re-elected to their seats. Brigette Moore was re-elected to the Wildomar City Council and currently serves as the city mayor.

Menifee re-elected Bob Karwin and Dan Temple will join them in council chambers after running a strong campaign against Ricky Estrada. Lisa Sobek was elected as the new mayor.

Hemet City Council will see a change with a new council member Tom Lodge taking the dais and Carole Kendrick and Joe Males retaining their seats for another four years. San Jacinto City Council will bring incumbant members Crystal Ruiz and Phil Ayala back to their seats with new member Clarisa A. Sanchez replacing Brian Hawkins.

US Representative:

25th District: Raul Ruiz (DEM) - 56.30%

39th District: Mark Takano (DEM) - 55.29%

41st District: Ken Calvert (REP) - 51.51%

48th District: Darrell E. Issa (REP) - 59.93%

State Senator: 31st District: Sabrina Cervantes (DEM) - 52.70%

State Assembly:

36th District: Jeff Gonzalez (REP) - 52.53%

47th District: Christy Holstege (DEM) - 53.74%

58th District: Leticia Castillo (REP) - 51.17%

60th District: Corey A Jackson (DEM) - 54.19%

63rd District: Bill Essayli (REP) - 58.29%

71st District: Kate Sanchez (REP) - 62.50%

Judge of the Superior Court Office #4: Elizabeth Tucker - 57.77%

County Supervisor 1st Supervisorial: Richard D. Roth - 51.81%

City Council and Mayor: Canyon Lake City Council: Dale Welty - 35.72%, Joshua Steeber - 32.67%, Mark Terry - 31.61%

Hemet City Council District 1: Carole Kendrick - 60.79%

Hemet City Council District 3: Tom Lodge - 37.68%

Hemet City Council District 4: Joe Males - 52.15%

Hemet City Treasurer: Dale Dieleman - 100.00% Lake Elsinore City Council District 2: Steve Manos - 64.87%

Menifee Mayor: Lesa Sobek - 44.91%

Murrieta City Council District 4: Lori Stone - 69.62%

Perris Mayor: Michael M. Vargas - 58.88%

Perris City Council District 2: Elizabeth Vallejo - 62.53%

Perris City Council District 4: Malcolm Corona - 100.00%

San Jacinto City Council: Crystal Ruiz - 17.53%, Phil Ayala - 14.34%, Clarisa A. Sanchez - 12.74% San Jacinto Treasurer: Tylisha A. Julienne - 39.43%

Temecula City Council District 1: Matt Rahn - 63.60%

Temecula City Council District 2: Jessica Alexander - 52.54%

Temecula City Council District 4: James “Stew” Stewart - 58.98%

Wildomar City Council District 4: Bridgette Moore71.87%

Community College Districts:

Mbr Gov Bd, Mt San Jac Comm College TA1: Brian Sylva - 73.74% Unified School Districts:

Mbr Gov Bd, Hemet USD, TA 6: Jeff Slepski - 55.43%

Mbr Gov Bd, Lake Elsinore USD, TA 2: Mike Pacheco62.11%

Mbr Gov Bd, Murrieta Valley USD TA 3: Julie Vandegrift - 50.75%

Mbr Gov Bd, Murrieta Valley USD TA 4: Eleanor Cruz Briggs - 53.26%

Mbr Gov Bd, Murrieta Valley USD TA 5: Christine Schmidt - 42.27%

Mbr Gov Bd, San Jacinto USD, TA 1: Benjamin Uribe68.02%

Mbr Gov Bd, San Jacinto USD, TA 3: William Fishburn - 66.68%

Mbr Gov Bd, Temecula Valley USD TA 1, FT: Melinda Anderson - 58.50%

Mbr Gov Bd, Temecula Valley USD TA 2, ST: Emil Roger Barham - 42.47%

Mbr Gov Bd, Temecula Valley USD TA 4, ST: Joseph Komrosky - 51.21%

Mbr Gov Bd, Temecula Valley USD TA 5, FT: Steven Schwartz - 51.64%

Mbr Gov Bd, Perris Union High, TA 3: Charles H. Hall56.99%

Mbr Gov Bd, Perris Union High, TA 4: Jamie I. Anaya66.41%

Mbr Gov Bd, Perris School TA 4: Douglas Corona - 59.09% School Bond Measures:

Measure K (Nuview Union School District Bond): BONDS YES - 57.48%

Measure H (Perris Elementary School District Bond): BONDS YES - 67.90%

Measure I (Romoland School District Bond): BONDS YES - 57.95%

Healthcare District Directors: San Gorgonio Memorial Healthcare, Full Term: Patricia Brown - 32.11%, Doris Foreman - 29.87%

Recreation and

Valley News/Shane Gibson photos

A bald eagle painting by Melissa Welch is displayed at the Vollbrecht Rotary Chalk Walk during the Field of Honor at Town Square Park in Murrieta. Artists were invited to participate in the competition by creating chalk artworks dedicated to honoring heroes and fostering community spirit.

A patriotic painting of soldiers by Antonio Canilang is displayed at the Vollbrecht Rotary Chalk Walk during the Field of Honor at Town Square Park in Murrieta.

Children run and play among the many American flags displayed at Town Square Park in Murrieta during the annual Field of Honor.

Hundreds of American flags honor veterans and first responders at the 16th Annual Murrieta Field of Honor. Valley News/Shane Gibson photos

November 15 – 21, 2024

Murrieta Valley students honored in October

Diane A. Rhodes

Special to Valley News

The Murrieta/Wildomar Chamber of Commerce Student of the Month program held its October breakfast celebration at the Murrieta Sizzler restaurant, 40489 Murrieta Hot Springs Road, Oct. 17. Emcee Mary Walters introduced program founder Sally Myers who welcomed everyone to the event that celebrates and honors outstanding students who make a significant difference in their schools and community. Myers shared the nonprofit organization’s mission statement for the program that partners closely with the Chamber of Commerce, the Murrieta Unified School District and the City of Murrieta to

provide a local high school recognition program. The purpose is to acknowledge college and trade school bound seniors for their character, their love of learning and their commitment to academics in addition to their participation in athletics, school activities, community service or their ability to persevere and overcome difficult life circumstances in a setting that

honors God, country, family, community and free enterprise. Large tote bags filled with gifts, certificates of recognition and more were donated by the program’s sponsors to the award recipients. Each student was invited to the podium to share their personal story, past challenges and future goals with a room full of supporters that included prin-

cipals, teachers, peers and family members, as well as community and school district dignitaries. October’s students of the month are Murrieta Canyon Academy’s Alina Martinez, Murrieta Mesa High School’s Shadia Huber, Murrieta Valley High’s Miguel Barba Lopez, Springs Charter School’s

organizations that provided anything from

hosted its highly anticipated Fall Family Resource Fair

attendees enjoying a range of family-friendly offerings. Over 20 organizations joined us to provide valuable resources covering family support, education, health, wellness, and much more. Attendees were treated to giveaways and prizes, while children and families enjoyed pumpkin painting, arts and crafts, health screenings, and more. The fair also provided

an opportunity for local job seekers, with on-the-spot employment applications available for several open district positions. The MUSD Fall Family Resource Fair has become a hallmark event, demonstrating the district’s ongoing commitment to engaging families and connecting them see STUDENTS, page B-2 see FAIR, page B-3

MENIFEE — Menifee Union School District (MUSD)

on Saturday, November 2, 2024, bringing together numerous families for an afternoon of community resources, fun activities, and valuable support services. The event was a resounding success, with more than 150

Recipients of the Murrieta/Wildomar Chamber of Commerce Student of the Month award for October are, from left, Shadia Huber, Alina Martinez, Miguel Barba Lopez, Noah Buck and Arkan Patel. Valley News/John P. Hess photo

Students and their families enjoy MUSD’s Fall Family Resource Fair on Nov. 2. Valley News/Courtesy photos

The MUSD Fall Family Resource Fair brought together over 20

family support to health and wellness.

EDUCATION

Perris Valley and Menifee Valley Chambers of Commerce honor Students of the Month

PERRIS - The Perris Valley Chamber of Commerce and the Menifee Valley Chamber of Commerce held its most recent Student of the Month breakfast at the Perris Sizzler, 91 West Nuevo Road on Oct. 8. The 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.

October’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.

Ryleigh De Guia Madlangbayan

Heritage High School’s Student of the Month is Ryleigh De Guia Madlangbayan. Ryleigh has an amazing success story. She and her family moved to the United States just last year from the Philippines. In the short time she’s been at Heritage, she has made quite an impact. Ryleigh shared that she had a bit of a struggle when she first started at Heritage. She was in an unfamiliar environment and culture and was fearful of stepping out to talk to anyone. After a time though, she decided that this was not the life she wanted for herself. She decided to join the Robotics Club and hasn’t looked back since. There she gained technical skills. But more importantly, she gained invaluable friendships. So much so that she is now the vice president of the Robotics Club. Because of her love of robotics, Ryleigh has applied to several universities and plans to major in mechanical engineering. She hopes to work in the field specializing in medical devices and prosthetics and give back to the community.

Evan Jackson

Paloma Valley High School’s Evan Jackson is October’s Student of the Month. Evan is part of the Navy JROTC Wildcat Brigade. He holds the position of company commander overseeing the training and development of the junior cadets. Evan is very disciplined and takes his academic and JROTC responsibilities seriously. As it is, Evan was nominated for his strength of character and unfailing dedication to the junior cadets of the NJROTC program. One of Evan’s strengths, as noted by his teacher MSgt. Frank Puebla, is the ability to be a good listener, which translates to being a good

STUDENTS from page B-1

Noah Buck and Vista Murrieta High School’s Arkan Patel.

Alina Martinez

Murrieta Canyon Academy

Principal Matt Bean explained that his school is an alternative high school of choice. “We strive to provide an educational environment built around academic and wellness support and in many cases it is a campus that provides students with a fresh start or a new opportunity to kind of recalibrate his or her personal and/or academic life,” he said. “Alina has had a complete rebirth on our campus.” The senior struggled through COVID while living in Los Angeles County, where she grew up. Alina and her family moved to Murrieta after her sister was born. She started high school at Vista Murrieta but felt overwhelmed by the large school. In her sophomore year, she transferred to Murrieta Canyon Academy. “MCA has made me a better person,” Alina said. “I have a growing passion to help young people find their way in the world.” She plans to pursue a career in the education field. “I see myself as an English teacher at the middle school level or possibly working as an elementary school teacher that helps the little ones become great in the future,” Alina said. Her teacher Amelia Kowalski

leader. “A lot of times we just want to talk as leaders. But listening is something that this young man does really well,” he said. Evan truly lives and breathes NJROTC. In fact. He had the opportunity to attend the U.S. Naval Academy Summer Seminar this past summer in Annapolis, Maryland. This has helped him immensely a s Evan hopes to get accepted into the Naval Academy to train as a naval aviator and eventually become an aerospace engineer.

Nia Salazar

Perris Lake High School’s Student of the Month is Nia Salazar.

As many people know, Perris Lake is a school of second chances for those who have struggled in previous learning environments. Nia is one of those students. Prior to coming to Perris Lake, Nia was on track in her academics. However, due to the tragedy of losing a close friend, Nia felt the weight of that loss and struggled both personally and academically. As a result, she found herself at Perris Lake. It was there that Nia began her journey to coming back to a place of optimism and belief in herself.

said, “Alina’s growth over these three years at MCA has produced a self-aware, self-motivated student who consistently demonstrates a love of learning.”

Shadia Huber

Murrieta Mesa Principal Scott Richards said Shadia has been part of the Navy JROTC program since her freshman year when she served as an Education Service Officer. She currently is a Battalion Commanding Officer who oversees a unit of 127 cadets. He said she is a proactively driven individual who is also a valuable member of the varsity golf team, National Honor Society, California Scholarship Federation, Principal’s Advisory Team and president of the NJROTC Club. This past summer, Shadia was awarded the 2024 Commander Naval Air Force’s Private Pilot scholarship worth $30,000. “With it, she excelled in an 8-week course where she earned her civilian pilot’s license, was named an Honor Cadet and a Top Cadet at the flight academy,” Richards said. She was recognized as top of her class among the 28 students from across the country that were accepted. She is also a licensed drone pilot. “I plan to proudly join the military after high school,” Shadia said. “My dream is to attend the United States Naval Academy, major in mechanical engineering, fly F-35s and devote

The hard work, determination and tenacity were not lost on others as she had received multiple nominations for Student of the Month. Nia’s teacher, Carol Stern, shared how she has been able to see how much she’s grown. “This young lady has such a passion for life. She’s gone through quite a bit of challenges in her life, and she has risen to those challenges, presenting herself as someone who is very honoring,” she said. Nia plans to attend Mt. San Jacinto College and then transfer to a four-year university to major in finance.

Haley Kitzerow Haley Kitzerow is Liberty High School’s October Student of the Month. Haley is a student athlete who plays on the varsity softball team. She also takes multiple AP and dual enrollment courses. She is involved in ASB as Commissioner of Social Media, where she works hard to promote school spirit and community. Haley shared that attending Liberty has opened up many opportunities for her. While juggling all of her activities, sports, and academics, one thing Haley admits to learning is

my life to serving my country.”

Her NJROTC instructor Chief Donald Meredith said, “Shadia is the most well-rounded, focused, driven student I have ever taught; anything she puts her mind to, she’s going to do.”

Miguel Barba Lopez

Murrieta Valley Principal Stephen Diephouse introduced Miguel as a full International Baccalaureate student who is stoic and humble. He moved to Murrieta from Mexico in his freshman year and started out as an English Learner student. Diephouse said, “Miguel has been an integral part of our engineering and robotics programs where he has honed his skills and showcased his innovative spirit. He’s also on track to complete the Career Technical Education computer science pathway, further preparing himself for a bright future in technology.” Miguel said it has been difficult for him to learn the English language. He hopes to major in electrical engineering and computer science in college to work in the automation industry in the future. His counselor Dinora Mendoza-Montoya said, “Miguel doesn’t say a lot, but he does a lot.” She said he has completed eight AP and IB classes and is now fluent in Spanish, English and German.

Noah Buck

Springs Charter School Venture

how to handle change. This comes in many forms, but Haley learned it in a different, but difficult way. She shared the loss of a young cousin to cancer a few years ago. During that time Haley and her family had to learn to live with a new normal. One of these changes was to create a nonprofit organization to raise awareness about childhood cancer. “I learned that life can change in an instant. But lessons are always learned with change,” she said. Haley plans to continue her education to receive her business degree and cosmetology license and eventually open her own salon.

Angelo Martinez Angelo Martinez is Perris High School’s Student of the Month. Perris Union High School District has many programs that offer students a wide variety of educational and career paths. One such path is the Future Farmers of America (FFA) agricultural program at Perris High School. Angelo had tried other areas of interest prior to joining FFA. He was part of the marching band, participating in the Fourth of July parade. He also

program Principal Jackie Dee said Noah is technically a 16-year-old junior but has completed eight college courses and will be graduating early. He is on target to earn his A.A. degree in business when he would have been a high school senior. He is a competitive soccer player, volunteers as a referee and coach at local youth soccer programs and works part time at his family’s business, Custom Wheel Accessories in Murrieta. Noah said, “I will be the fourth generation to run the company which is celebrating its 40th anniversary.” His teacher Austin Stankus said, “Every day, Noah demonstrates what it means to be a model student.” His mother said Noah has always been able to relate to anyone of any age and is easy to talk to. At car shows they attend she often finds him talking to different generations of people about their cars. A straight-A student throughout high school and in his college classes, he plans to pursue his B.A. in business to be prepared to take over the family business in the future. Arkan Patel Vista Murrieta High School Principal Celeste Scallion said, “Being an educator is not just hard work, it’s heart work so it is an honor to have the opportunity to be here and serve in this way. She said Arkan is ranked number

played on the Panthers baseball team, gaining more lessons while participating in sports. However, Angelo’s real love turned out to be FFA. This is where he really started to grow and gain confidence. Through his involvement in the program, Angelo discovered his passion for animal sciences. He shared that through the process of taking care of animals, there is a unique outcome to it. “I like FFA because it brings out the beauty of what we originated from farming, what we have gathered to create everything that we have,” he said. This has inspired him to continue his education after high school in the animal sciences toward becoming a veterinarian. 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.

one in his class. “In addition to his academic pursuits, he volunteers at Loma Linda Hospital, exemplifying compassion and service to others,” Scallion said. He is also a member of the Principal’s Advisory, LINK Crew, California Scholarship Federation, National Honor Society, Science Olympiad, Math Club, Interact Club and the tennis team. “One life lesson I found consistently true is that whenever you put in your effort and if you’re doing the right thing you will succeed,” Arkan said. “I have experienced this throughout my high school career. I have found that being accountable, responsible and inquisitive often plays a role in being successful.” He plans to major in microbiology and immunology at UC, Irvine and then attend medical school to earn his medical degree in surgery. After that, he would like to attend law school for his Juris Doctor degree. He plans to become a surgeon and eventually would like to go into hospital administration. His teacher and Interact club advisor Theresa Orozco said, “Witnessing his growth as a student and person has been inspiring.” For more information or to participate in the program, please contact LouEllen Ficke at 951415-2250 or Sally Myers at 951775-0520.

Menifee Valley’s October Students of the Month are, seated from left: Ryleigh De Guia Madlangbayan, Nia Salazar, Angelo Martinez, Evan Jackson and Haley Kitzerow. Dignitaries there to support them are, standing from left, Menifee Mayor Bill Zimmerman, County Supervisor Chuck Washington’s representative Jandi Aguilar, Perris City Clerk Nancy Salazar, Perris Mayor Michael Vargas, Casey Deaver from Assemblyman Bill Essayli’s office; Jerry Sepulveda with Perris Valley Chamber of Commerce, Senator Richard Roth’s representative Ricardo Guerrero, Elizabeth Vallejo, Riverside County Office of Education/Board Member, Perris Union High School District and Perris Union High School District Superintendent Jose Araux.

Valley News/Courtesy photo

Soboba Tribal TANF youth attend AISES conference in Texas

Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians Special to Valley News

From October 3-5, youth from the Soboba Tribal TANF program traveled to San Antonio, Texas to attend this year’s AISES conference. The American Indian Science and Engineering Society is a nonprofit organization that aims to increase the representation of Indigenous peoples in STEM fields.

Chairman Isaiah Vivanco is also serving his third year as Chairman of the Tribal Nations Advisory Council (TNAC) for AISES. He first met AISES representatives at a conference and learned all about them. “I was able to get the organization to come to Soboba and work with our preschool and Noli students on a robotics program,” he said. “After seeing the impact it had on our youth, and learning more about the organization, I thought there should be more Tribes working with them. They offer great experiences for our youth and they also provide tons of career opportunities. AISES has created partnerships with major tech companies worldwide. My role as TNAC Chair is to help get AISES into other Tribal communities. With all my travel comes a lot of networking with Tribal leaders from all over the country and that provides a perfect opportunity to make the introduction.”

The TNAC holds one of its quarterly meetings during the national conference, so Vivanco was able to attend the opening ceremonies in front of about 4,000 Native high school and college students from around the country who are eager to enter into the workforce at a very sophisticated level.

Arres, Riverside Site Manager Angela Diaz and Soboba Tribal TANF Program Specialist Mayra Campos.

Campos said she reminds the TANF youth every chance she gets about how lucky they are to have the chance to attend so many different outreach events that are aimed at them and their futures. “I did not have these opportunities growing up and I am taking full advantage of them now,” she said.

As the Program Specialist, she visited the conference website to plan out their days based on the youth sessions provided. “I picked a couple different options based on topics such as leadership, college readiness and culture, anything that aligns with our program,” she said. “I then created a conference agenda alongside Harold to ensure we had enough time for our youth to attend sessions as well as get rest breaks and meals. On the days of the conference, we let the youth pick what sessions to attend based on the sessions we narrowed down.”

They also planned for educational activities the youth could enjoy in their spare time. The group was able to take a tour of the Alamo and ride a small boat around the San Antonio Riverwalk. They also visited the San Antonio Zoo as part of the conference.

High school junior David Marquez attended the annual conference for the first time. He participated in sessions on agriculture, coding and fashion. He most enjoyed visiting the resource bo oths that provided him with new career ideas as he has already planned to enter a STEM career field. “I learned there should be more Indigenous youth in STEM careers,” David said.

Agustin Salgado was also a first-time attendee. The high school sophomore enjoyed the seminar on “Hypersonics – How Fast is Fast?” but said his favorite part of the conference was the career fair. “I learned the importance of STEM and how it will help the future generations improve and learn valuable job skills.”

“Walking the trade show floor and seeing companies like Google, NASA, Apple, U.S. Forestry, and a ton of other major corporations trying to recruit our youth was great,” Vivanco said.

He said another highlight was being able to sit down and have dinner with the Soboba youth who were there to participate. “Hopefully trips like this can be encouraging or inspirational in their career paths,” he said.

Vivanco was presented with a Tribal Partner Service Award “in recognition of his commitment, service and dedication to AISES.”

When he was contacted by AISES President Sarah EchoHawk telling him he was receiving the award, he was surprised. Past winners have gone to large Tribes (San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians), so he was quite honored to be recognized for his efforts as an individual.

Although he was unable to accept the award on the final day of the conference due to previous travel plans and commitments, it was given to him at AISES’ 7th annual Native Links Golf Classic that was held at Red Rock Country Club in Las Vegas on Oct. 7.

“It was good to be honored there at the golf tournament because there were many Tribal partners and business associates that I knew in attendance. As well as some of my Council,” Vivanco said. “Things like this mean a lot but none of it is possible without a great team of Council members; it’s because of their hard work that we even get the chance to sit on boards like this. So, I feel that when any of us gets recognized for something, we’re all winners!”

All proceeds from the fundraising event benefit AISES, specifically the RISE Fund powered by Aristocrat Gaming, which provides educational and career support to Indigenous students interested in Casino Gaming. Vivanco has cochaired the tournament for three years.

“My role is to help get sponsors and participants in an effort to raise monies for the programs AISES offers to our communities,” said Vivanco, who has played in the tournament for about five years and has been on the committee for the past three.

For more information, https:// conference.aises.org.

Students and their families enjoy MUSD’s Fall Family Resource Fair on Nov. 2. Valley

FAIR from page B-1

The theme for the 2024 national conference was Rivers of Resilience: Sustaining Indigenous Innovation. The three-day event focused on educational, professional, and workforce development for Indigenous peoples of North America and the Pacific Islands in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) studies and careers. Accompanying the youth were Regional TANF Manager Harold across 16 physical campuses and one digital campus. As a California Pivotal Practices Award Winner, MUSD innovatively serves students from preschool through 8th grade. MUSD is led by its 12th Superintendent, Dr. Jennifer Root, and is governed by a Board of Education composed of five publicly elected officials who serve their respective trustee areas.

Reymoondo Padilla also enjoyed the career fair. “The career fair was my favorite because we got to talk to all different kinds of people and colleges,” the high school junior said. He learned a lot more about agriculture than he did before and was able to obtain some new career ideas. One of several sessions on the subject was “Converging Indigenous Knowledge and Agriculture Sciences.”

photo with the resources and support they need. By offering resources, services, and activities in one convenient location, the event makes it easy for families to access the support they need to thrive. With schools dating back to the 1880s, Menifee Union School District serves over 12,000 students

News/Courtesy

Soboba Tribal TANF youth participated in the American Indian Science and Engineering Society national conference in San Antonio, Oct. 3-5.

A representative from the United States Geological Survey shares information with Soboba Tribal TANF youth at the annual AISES conference. USGS has recognized the importance of Native knowledge and living in harmony with nature as complements to the USGS mission to better understand the Earth.

One of several sessions attended by Soboba Tribal TANF youth at this year’s AISES conference in Texas.

Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians

Kellie Jewett-Fernandez, AISES Vice President of Business Development, presents Soboba Chairman Isaiah Vivanco with the Tribal Partner Service Award, Oct. 7.

Soboba Tribal TANF youth who attended last month’s AISES conference in San Antonio had the opportunity to visit the Alamo with TANF staff Mayra Campos, far left, and Harold Arres, at right.

Valley News/Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians photos

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. 15 – Valley-Wide Park and Recreation District youth registration sign ups underway for Youth Basketball grades 1-8 and Youth Baseball/girls softball ages 5-14 at the Menifee, French Valley gyms that begin soon. Contact www. gorecreation.org or call 951-6541505.

Nov. 21 – 4-5:30 p.m. Teens can test their Wizard World knowledge and compete with other teens for prizes during Wizard World Trivia at the Ronald H. Roberts Temecula Public Library. Feel free to come dressed up. For grades 7 to 12 and limited to 40 participants. Register at the library reception desk or call 951-693-8900.

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. 15 – MilVets Holidays for Heroes Toy Drive is underway for military and veteran families. Shop for or adopt a military/veteran family for the holiday season. Toy drop off at MilVet in Murrieta on Tuesdays, the Wildomar Library, Which Wich Murrieta, Visit www. milvet.org/santa for complete list of drop off locations. Toys and gifts to be given away to the military families on Dec. 15. Sponsorships and vendors available.

Nov. 16 – 9:30 a.m. Menifee Valley Historical Association presents a look back at Menifee businesses in the 60s and 70s. Held at the Antelope/Menifee Rural Center, on Haun Road north of Garbani Road. Free and open to the public.

Nov. 16 – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m Mt. San Jacinto College (MSJC) Art Gallery XO, presents an exhibition by artist Paulson Lee through Dec. 12 at 1499 N. State St., Building 1400, San Jacinto. This event is free and open to the public. XO presents semi-autobiographical works that explore the boundaries

Crossword Puzzle

Theme: Thanksgiving

of reality through layered depictions of escapism and romanticized self-perception.

Nov. 17 – 4 p.m. Hemet San Jacinto Interfaith Council Thanksgiving Community Service. Giving thanks in all things. Light refreshments. Warm clothing drive. Center for Spiritual Living, 40450 Stetson Ave., Hemet.

Nov. 18 – 6:30 to 8 p.m. Hemet Heritage Foundation presents a look at the Hemet Lake Dam in the early years leading to the development of the City of Hemet by Bob Norman, a long-time resident of the San Jacinto Valley. Held at Memorial Funeral Services, 1111 State St., Hemet, SW corner of State and Stetson across from McDonalds on Stetson. Free. Refreshments served.

Nov. 24 – 7 p.m. Menifee Interfaith and Community Service Council presents an “Evening of Gratitude.” Bring non-perishable foods to benefit the Community Pantry. A message of services and faith by local community leaders. Held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 29725 Bradley St. in Menifee.

Nov. 28 – Free Thanksgiving Dinner at Menifee’s Kay Ceniceros Center, 29995 Evans Road, Menifee. Two meal times. Limited space so reservations are necessary. Call the center’s front desk at 951-672-9673. First responders are welcome throughout the day. Nov. 30 – 2-7 p.m. Small Business Saturday at Vail Headquarters, Temecula. Join us in a celebration of our community’s creators and makers, and find the perfect handcrafted gifts for the holidays.

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. 15 – 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. 19 – 10:15 a.m. Temecula Valley Republican Women’s monthly meeting at Wilson Creek Winery, 35960 Rancho California Road, Temecula. Focusing on four community veterans organizations. Thanksgiving themed bake sale. RSVP required.

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-care-packages.

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

ONGOING – 10-11:30 a.m. Michelle’s Place Cancer Resource Center and The Elizabeth Hospice host a virtual support meeting for caregivers every second and fourth week of the month via Zoom. Get helpful tips and learn from others who are also dealing with similar challenges. For more information and to register, contact The Elizabeth Hospice Grief Support Services at 833-349-2054.

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Movie review: Double feature

Bob Garver Contributor

The battle for second place at the domestic box office this past weekend (behind the fourth weekend of “Venom: The Last Dance”) was awfully close, with two films hovering around the $11 million mark. Since neither film is a big hit, I’ve decided to toss them both a quick review.

“The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” Sadly, “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” started off at a disadvantage with me from which it never quite recovered. It wasn’t the lack of flashiness or edginess or intensity. I’m perfectly fine with watching a family-friendly movie about a small-town Christmas pageant. It’s that I read the book by Barbara Robinson as a child, and the movie couldn’t measure up.

The story follows young Beth (Molly Belle Wright, though the movie is narrated by Lauren Graham as an adult Beth) as she sees her mother (Judy Greer) take over as director of the church’s high-pressure Christmas pageant. Things fall apart almost immediately when the six unruly Herdman kids – led by oldest sister Imogene (Beatrice Schneider) – insist on taking the six biggest roles in the play. Will the pageant be the disaster that most of the community is expecting? Or will Beth’s mother pull off a miracle and get a decent show out of the little misfits?

Even if I hadn’t read the book first, I could probably guess that the movie was heading in a direction where the Herdmans are reluctantly made better by the church and the church is reluctantly made better by the Herdmans. This is not a movie that takes many risks or makes many deviations from the source material. I was able to recall dialogue word-for-word from the book in some scenes. It’s not a “bad” movie, just an unambitious one. I must dismiss it with the line that adaptations dread: the book was better.

Grade: C

“The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” is rated PG for thematic

material and brief underage smoking. Its running time is 99 minutes.

“Heretic”

“Heretic” follows two young Mormon missionaries (Sophie Thatcher and Chloe East) as they pay a call on potential new convert Mr. Reed (Hugh Grant). The stranger is friendly, intelligent, and bubbly, essentially the Hugh Grant from all those romantic comedies.

Except this isn’t a rom-com, it’s a horror movie. Unlike with the other movie, I didn’t know much about this one going in, but I knew that once the young women were invited into Mr. Reed’s house, they wouldn’t be getting out anytime soon.

Not that Mr. Reed’s true colors are immediately apparent, even once the door has closed behind the visitors. He plays the gracious host, offering them warmth from the blizzard outside. He engages them in thoughtful religious discourse, occasionally veering into controversial topics as red flags gradually pop up all around him.

I couldn’t pinpoint an exact moment where his villainy becomes official, but after several scenes of

discussion and debate, the women find themselves trapped in his basement and at his mercy. Mr. Reed doesn’t want to kill them, he’s not that kind of villain. But he does want to do some converting of his own.

“Heretic” is a taut, slow-burn thriller that focuses more on mind games and suspense than action and violence. The three main performances are all excellent, with Grant at his career best and Thatcher and East immediately establishing themselves are future stars. Unfortunately, the film loses steam in the third act, when the script gets greedy with how many twists it wants to pile on. The movie does so well for so long, some early scenes are truly memorable (especially a lengthy board game analogy), and I do recommend it overall, but it just misses out on becoming a contemporary classic.

Grade: B-

“Heretic” is rated R for some bloody violence. Its running time is 111 minutes.

Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@ nyu.edu.

Domino’s Pizza

Valley News/Courtesy photos

FDA warns against ‘life-threatening’ weight loss drugs from California facility

Naveen Athrappully

The Epoch Times

A California-based entity is selling compounded drugs used for weight loss and diabetes management that could pose serious health issues for people, according to a warning from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The alert was issued for medications compounded and distributed by Fullerton Wellness based in Ontario, California, according to a Nov. 1 FDA statement.

“Fullerton Wellness is a facility that compounds drugs intended to be sterile, including semaglutide and tirzepatide injections,” the FDA said.

Semaglutide is the active ingredient in the drugs Wegovy and Ozempic manufactured by Novo Nordisk. Tirzepatide is the active ingredient in Mounjaro and Zepbound manufactured by Eli Lilly. While Ozempic and Mounjaro are prescribed for diabetes, Wegovy and Zepbound are for weight loss.

Zachary Elliott Special to the Valley News

Dragging my luggage around while trying to navigate Japan’s public transit system was no small feat—especially when I kept encountering the rigid tiles running right down the middle of the sidewalk. They were everywhere. After losing control of my lug-

“Based on conditions observed by FDA and information provided by California regulatory authorities, FDA has concerns about the sterility of drugs distributed by Fullerton Wellness,” said the statement.

Administering a non-sterile drug that is intended to be sterile could end up causing “serious and potentially life-threatening” adverse health reactions, the agency warned. Such effects include infections and sepsis, a condition under which the body’s immune system reacts dangerously against an infection.

The FDA said it received a complaint from a patient in August who noticed that a vial of semaglutide distributed by Fullerton had a black particulate.

In September, the agency was informed by California regulatory authorities that deficiencies were found at the company when conducting a state inspection. After the inspection was completed, Fullerton ceased its operations voluntarily

On Oct. 17, the FDA joined California authorities to inspect the Fullerton facility and check for conditions that could cause the company’s medications to get contaminated.

“Fullerton Wellness used nonsterile ingredients to make these injectable drugs and took no steps to sterilize them which could introduce health risks,” the agency said.

The FDA advised health care professionals to “immediately check” their medical supplies, quarantine any medications from Fullerton, and not to administer these drugs to their patients. Patients who have received supplies from the company were urged to stop using it and consult a health care professional.

The agency noted that it is not aware of any adverse reactions associated with these compounded drugs.

“However, compounders that are not registered with FDA as outsourcing facilities are primarily overseen by state regulators and

are not required under federal law to report adverse events to FDA,” it noted.

Ongoing safety concerns Last month, the FDA raised concerns about unapproved drugs such as semaglutide and tirzepatide for weight loss purposes. The agency warned that these unapproved versions could be risky since they do not undergo an FDA review checking for safety, quality, and effectiveness.

Some of the adverse event reports received by the FDA included people getting hospitalized, which may be related to dosing errors linked to compounded semaglutide, it said. The dosing errors resulted in patients administering themselves with an incorrect dosage of the drug.

In certain cases, the doses exceeded levels approved by the FDA. “Some of the adverse events are serious and some patients reported seeking medical attention for their symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal

pain, and constipation.”

In November last year, Novo Nordisk said it was pursuing legal action against two pharmacies in the United States for allegedly selling products containing semaglutide that had no FDA approval. The company said it had conducted tests on the compounded drugs which revealed that they were “adulterated and misbranded.”

Jason Brett, executive director of Medical Affairs at Novo Nordisk, said the corporation saw “concerning levels of unknown impurities” in the compounded semaglutide drugs that could “potentially put patient’s health at risk.”

One of the targets of the legal action was Wells Pharmacy. Certain samples obtained from the pharmacy were found to contain peptide BPC-157, which the FDA had said cannot be used in compounded drugs because of safety issues.

gage for the umpteenth time, I exasperatedly said to my wife, “Whose idea was it to put these bumpy tiles right in the middle of the sidewalk?” She responded, “They’re for blind people.” Awkward!

That’s when I started taking a closer look and noticed a deliberate pattern. The tiles ran straight down the sidewalk, making turns at corners and intersections, directing visually impaired people to important places like ticket counters and train stops. They were everywhere. These tiles must be a crucial guide for people who are blind. It’s hard enough to navigate Japan’s transit system when you can see. I can’t imagine what it’s like when you’re blind. But do you know what it took for those tiles to be installed? It took a person who could see.

Someone with vision had to do the work to help those without it. Jesus said, “Can the blind lead the blind? Will they not both fall into a pit? The student is not above the teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like their teacher.” (Luke 6:39-42)

If you were blind and another blind person said, “Hey, follow me!” would you? Probably not. You’d likely end up in a dangerous situation you couldn’t get out of.

In this parable, Jesus teaches us that blind people shouldn’t lead other blind people. Neither should we follow one. It’s dangerous. If you’re going to be led you need someone who can see clearly to guide you. Ultimately, that person is Jesus. We need him to lead us because he understands our spiritual needs more fully than we ever could. It also means we should strive to

become more like our teacher. We need to evaluate our spiritual maturity before trying to lead others. Jesus went on to say, “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Brother, let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when you yourself fail to see the plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.” (Luke 6:41-42)

How can a spiritually blind person help guide another? They can’t.

We must first remove the obstacles from our own eyes before trying to help others. That can only be done by growing to become more like Jesus.

What practical steps can you take to sharpen your spiritual sight so that God might use you to help others? Good and wise people choose to be taught and led by Jesus and who are more spiritually mature than them.

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.

Employment

Position: Director/Manager/Team Leader Construction Management and Planning - Desire Construction Incorporation is in need of Foreign Labor Certificated position of a Director of Construction. The Director oversees the day-to-day activities and supports the Construction Team, as well as reporting on the status of projects to the company owners. Aside from managing and monitoring construction projects, using CADD software for estimating, designing, and detailing, procuring construction materials is also part of the task. It is the Director’s responsibility to manage and oversee construction projects to ensure that proper procedures are followed, delivery requirements are met, budgets are met, and projects are completed on time. . The Director must be bilingual in order to communicate effectively with Filipino clients. Salary is commensurate with experience. To apply, please submit your resume, portfolio, and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience to: Desire Construction Inc. 30141 Antelope Road, Suite D 636 Menifee, Ca 92584 EOE (DCI is an Equal Opportunity Employer)

Supervisors approve construction contract, revised budget for Lakeland Village child care center

Joe Naiman Special to Valley News

The Riverside County Board of Supervisors approved a construction contract for a child care center at the Lakeland Village Community Center and also revised the budget for the project.

The 5-0 vote October 29 approved a contract with Robert Clapper Construction Services, lnc., for the Redlands company’s bid of $6,173,000. That amount along with other construction,

specialty consultants, and administrative costs was also added to the project budget, and the additional $6,557,825 of appropriations provides a current budget of $9,165,453. The board action also approved seven addenda to the plans and specifications; the bidders had been notified of the addenda when they were issued.

The Lakeland Village Community Center in the 16200 block of Grand Avenue opened in June 2016. The property had previously been Butterfield Elementary

School before the Lake Elsinore Unified School District closed the school in 2010, and the county purchased the land from the school district in 2015. The community center includes a multi-purpose room, a performance stage, an arts and crafts room, a dance studio, a children’s activity room, meeting space, and administrative offices. The master plan approved by the county supervisors in June 2019 will phase improvements as funding becomes available and includes playgrounds, other

County approves $800,000 of additional ARPA funding for RCWD hydroelectric facilities

Joe Naiman Special to Valley News

The County of Riverside will be providing an additional $800,000 of American Rescue Plan Act funding for the Rancho California Water District’s project to construct two in-line turbine hydroelectric generators.

The Riverside County Board of Supervisors voted 5-0 November 5 to approve an amendment to the infrastructure project funding agreement between the County of Riverside and the Rancho California Water District for the hydroelectric facilities. The $800,000 is in addition to a $3,000,000 ARPA allocation approved last year and will cover a portion of the increased construction costs.

The two in-line turbine generators will be located at the Upper Valle de Los Caballos recharge and recovery facility in the 42100 block of Winchester Road and on Washington Avenue adjacent to the Elm Street Pump Station and the Santa Rosa Water Reclamation Facility. The two projects are expected to reduce RCWD electricity costs by more than $350,000 each year as well as reduce the regional demand for electricity generated elsewhere.

The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 included $350 billion of Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds allocations for eligible state, territorial, Tribal, and local governments. The funding addresses the public health emergency and economic impacts of the coronavirus epidemic and can be utilized for infrastructure, housing and homelessness, economic recovery, county departments response, nonprofit assistance, child care, and revenue backfill.

In October 2021 the Board of Supervisors approved the allocation of $65 million of ARPA funds for infrastructure projects in Riverside County. In February 2022 the Board of Supervisors increased the infrastructure allocation to $82 million which provides for $15 million per supervisorial district and $7 million for the Broadband Affordability Program.

In September 2023 the county supervisors approved the original infrastructure project funding agreement between the county and Rancho Water, which also covers $5,000,000 for improvements to the Carancho Pump Station. At the time the total estimated cost for the hydroelectric project was $3,600,000.

Bids for the construction contract were opened September 9. Pacific Hydrotech Corporation, which is headquartered in Perris, had the low bid of $5,177,900. The October 17 RCWD board meeting included a

7-0 vote to award Pacific Hydrotech the construction contract and to amend the RCWD design contract with Lee + Ro, Inc., to cover construction support services. An April 18 RCWD board action approved the pre-purchase of eight pieces of equipment with long lead times including the two turbines which also include a motor control center and a control panel. The combined cost of the two turbines is $1,703,498. The lead time for the turbines is at least one year.

The total current construction cost of $7.988 million is a $4.95 million increase over the previous

estimate of $3.038 million. The new agreement formalizes a revised cost share. Rancho Water will provide $4,150,000 of the additional amount with the county funding $800,000 through the ARPA allocation.

ARPA funds must be committed by December 31, 2024, and spent by December 31, 2026. The agreement includes a construction and implementation date of June 30, 2026, with administrative closeout completion by December 31, 2026. Joe Naiman can be reached at jnaiman@reedermedia.com.

STAX Property Finder provides Menifee residents with easy access to tax information

MENIFEE - To provide Menifee residents with easier access to their property tax information, the City of Menifee has partnered with Spicer Consulting Group to offer the STAX Property Finder. This online portal, also available through the City of Menifee website, allows property owners to easily access and review details of their property tax bill, including their land value, the value of improvements on their property, and a listing of special districts administered by the City. The application will also help property owners connect with the Riverside County Tax Collector and the City of Menifee for additional resources.

Residents can navigate the userfriendly STAX Property Finder application tool using their property address or Parcel Identification Number (PIN) found on their property tax bill.

Answers for puzzle on page B-2

“The Stax Property Finder is a great resource for helping our residents track their property taxes and hopefully make it a little easier to manage their finances,” said City of Menifee Chief Financial Officer Travis Hickey. “This portal also helps further our commitment to transparency by providing clarity in what specific taxes are associated with an individual’s property.”

The STAX Property Finder tool is a proprietary software solution that uses online databases to provide current and historical property information. For additional questions, please contact Spicer Consulting Group at 866-504-2067 or email contact@spicercg.com

For additional information about the City of Menifee’s financial operations, including budget and financial reporting, please visit www. cityofmenifee.us/Finance.

recreational activities, athletic field rehabilitation, upgrades of amenities to Americans with Disabilities Act standards, paving and building upgrades, water quality improvements, pavement removal, and landscaping.

In April 2017 the county supervisors approved the initial agreement with Studio 395 Foundation, which is a non-profit organization, to operate the Lakeland Village Community Center and provide community center services including youth and senior programs.

The scope of the services includes recreational and park, healthcare, and food services and programs.

The agreement also has an annual reimbursement for services performed. In July 2019 amendments to the original agreement refined the agreement and addressed background checks and confidentiality.

The initial three-year agreement expired in June 2020, and that month the county supervisors approved a new three-year agreement with Studio 395. An amendment approved by the Board of Supervisors in October 2021 added that Studio 395 will be responsible

for managing the calendar for reservations and use of the sports amenities in the Lakeland Village Community Center common areas. A new three-year agreement covering the period from July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2026, was approved by the Board of Supervisors in June 2023.

An April 2022 Board of Supervisors action approved the Lakeland Village Child Care Facilities Project in principle while also approving a a preliminary design development budget of $2,607,628 and a $680,430 design contract with Ware Malcomb, which is based in Irvine. The child care center will accommodate 25 spaces for children ages 0 to 3.

The plans and specifications for the child care center were approved in June 2024, and the June 4 action also authorized the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors to advertise the project for bid. Six bids were submitted by the August 6 deadline. Robert Clapper Construction Services had the low bid. Joe Naiman can be reached at jnaiman@reedermedia.com.

Murrieta Valley Nighthawks make history with first CIF Southern Section girls’ volleyball title

JP Raineri Sports Editor

NORWALK – The Murrieta Valley girls volleyball team etched its name into the record books on Saturday, Nov. 9, capturing its first-ever CIF Southern Section Division 2 championship in a thrilling five-set match against Palos Verdes. The Nighthawks secured the victory with a final score of 25-23, 25-14, 20-25, 1425, 15-12, thanks to a decisive kill by Miley Thunstrom.

Leading up to this historic win, the Nighthawks had experienced a similar situation five years ago, where they witnessed a twoset lead dissolve in the finals. This time, however, the outcome was different, as Murrieta Valley overcame past challenges to clinch the title.

Thunstrom was instrumental in the victory, delivering an impressive 32 kills throughout the match. “It really came down to who wanted it more in that fifth set,” said Thunstrom. “We have been in that situation plenty of times this season and I think we’ve proven just how much we wanted to win.”

Palos Verdes’ Kaci Demaria, a Stanford-bound outside hitter, posed a significant challenge with her extraordinary 42-kill performance. Despite Demaria’s efforts, Murrieta Valley’s more balanced attack, including contributions from Cadence Axene, Summer Tukua, and Ryleigh Short, proved to be the deciding factor. Melanie Hewlett

demonstrated her playmaking skills with 59 assists, while Short added defensive strength with a match-high 19 digs.

The Nighthawks had a strong start, with Hewlett leading her team to a combined 35 kills in the first two sets. Although Palos Verdes mounted a comeback in the third and fourth sets, Murrieta Valley maintained composure and strategy, pulling ahead in the final set.

With this landmark victory, Murrieta Valley now looks forward to competing in the CIF State playoffs, where they are expected to be one of the top seeds in the Division I regional bracket. The Nighthawks, with the No. 3 seed, will commence their playoff run on Tuesday, Nov. 12, versus Oaks Christian at 6 p.m. Another familiar face from the Southwestern League is Temecula Valley, who is slated as the No. 2 seed in the same division. Both teams appear to be on a collision course as the Golden Bears will take on the Academy of Our Lady of Peace Pilots on the same day and time.

The State Championships will be held at Santiago Canyon College in Orange, with the Division I final scheduled for Friday, Nov. 22, at 6:30 p.m. Tickets for the CIF State playoffs and championships are available online through GoFan.com. General admission for preliminary rounds is $9, with discounts for children, students, and seniors. Visit www.ciftstate. org for more information. Send local sports tips and info to sports@reedermedia.com

Vista Murrieta and Murrieta Mesa triumph in CIF Southern Section playoff s

JP Raineri Sports Editor

Despite the challenges that come with translating regular season success into playoff victories, Vista Murrieta Broncos showed they were more than ready for the task as they eked out a thrilling 23-20 win over the Villa Park Spartans on Friday, Nov. 8. This nail-biting victory marks the closest game the Broncos have experienced since September 1, 2023, proving once again that they can withstand the pressure of high-stakes matches.

Central to Vista Murrieta’s performance was quarterback Bryson Beaver, who dazzled the crowd with a stunning stat line, throwing for 244 yards and securing two touchdowns. His connection with top receiver Tyler Caldwell was electric, as Caldwell racked up 92 receiving yards and a touchdown, propelling the Broncos forward at crucial moments.

Special teams also played a significant role in securing the victory, contributing 11 points courtesy of kicker Gavin Facer. Facer was flawless, going 3-for-3 on field goals and adding two extra points, which kept Vista Murrieta in contention throughout the game.

The Broncos’ first-round win in the CIF Southern Section adds to their growing momentum, bringing their season record to 7-4. In stark contrast, the loss for Villa Park, who are now also at 7-4, ends their playoff hopes in Division 3. Vista Murrieta now prepares to go toe-to-toe with Cajon this coming Friday at 7 p.m., as they look to continue their playoff run. Cajon, riding a five-game winning streak, presents a formidable challenge, but the Broncos are poised for a fierce battle.

Meanwhile, Murrieta Mesa Rams soared

Ontario

The Murrieta Valley Nighthawks celebrate with their CIF Southern Section championship trophy after winning the Division 2 girls’ volleyball title Saturday, Nov. 9, at Cerritos College in Norwalk.

[Left] Miley Thunstrom, pictured here earlier this season, helped Murrieta Valley defeat Palos Verdes in five sets on Saturday, Nov. 9, at Cerritos College in Norwalk.

Valley News/David Canales photo

Valley News/Courtesy photo

Ryleigh Short, pictured here earlier this season, had a match-high 19 digs and 10 kills for the Nighthawks in their championship win over Palos Verdes.

Freshman Summer Tukua, pictured here earlier this season, had 10 kills for the Nighthawks in their CIF-SS Division 2 championship win over Palos Verdes Saturday, Nov. 9, at Cerritos College in Norwalk. Valley News/David Canales photo

Valley News/David Canales photo

Murrieta Valley escapes Rancho Cucamonga with an exciting football victory in playoff nail-biter

JP Raineri Sports Editor

MURRIETA — The Nighthawks have developed a knack for thrilling finishes in the CIF Southern Section playoffs, and Friday’s game against Rancho Cucamonga was no exception. Murrieta Valley seemed to be cruising with a 28-6 lead in the first half, but the Cougars clawed back, tying the score at 42 with just 2 minutes and 30 seconds left on the clock.

The top-seeded Nighthawks, who now boast a 9-2 record, will face No. 8-seeded Los Alamitos (6-5) in a quarterfinal showdown next week. These two programs met in the Division 2 quarterfinal last season, where Murrieta Valley edged out a 53-52 double-overtime

victory.

Murrieta Valley appeared in command early on, thanks to the dynamic efforts of Hoze and Bear Bachmeier. Hoze ran in scores from 3 and 49 yards out on the Nighthawks’ opening drives. Meanwhile, Bachmeier added a ground touchdown and connected with Jacob Alvarez for a 6-yard pass that further extended the lead. Rancho Cucamonga quarterback Jacob Chambers began the comeback with a 37-yard run in the first quarter, and he kept the Cougars in the game with one of the evening’s standout plays. After a snap went over his head, Chambers retrieved the ball and scrambled before launching a 42yard touchdown pass to Cameron Sermons, helping to stop the bleeding.

The Cougars continued to chip away at the deficit, with Chambers scoring on a 19-yard run just before halftime. Keyonn Chatman added a 55-yard run early in the second half, trimming Murrieta Valley’s lead to 35-28.

Hoze restored Murrieta Valley’s double-digit advantage with his fourth touchdown—a 3-yard run midway through the third quarter. But Rancho Cucamonga wouldn’t go quietly. Darion Fluker intercepted a Bachmeier pass, setting up Chambers for an 18yard touchdown connection with Devin Chapple-Love.

The fourth quarter turned tense,

Nighthawk QB Bear Bachmeier (47) sets up to throw a long pass, Friday, Nov. 8, at home versus Rancho Cucamonga in their Division 2 playoff opener. Valley News/Andrez Imaging

as a Murrieta Valley muffed punt gave Rancho Cucamonga possession at the Nighthawks 14yard line. Chambers capitalized by finding James Strong for a 3-yard touchdown pass, tying the score at 42 with just over two minutes remaining.

However, Murrieta Valley wasn’t finished. Starting near midfield after a long kickoff return, Bachmeier orchestrated the gamewinning drive. He ran for 26 yards on three carries and completed a critical 22-yard pass to Julian Treadwell, putting the Nighthawks in prime position. Hoze sealed the victory with a 2-yard touchdown

JP Raineri Sports Editor

TEMECULA – In a commanding performance that underscored their season-long success, the Great Oak Wolfpack easily dispatched the Coachella Valley Mighty Arabs with a resounding 42-7 victory on Friday, Nov. 8. The win not only advanced the Wolfpack in the 2024 CIF Southern Section Division 9 football championships, but also confirmed their ability to translate regular-season prowess into playoff triumphs.

Great Oak’s offense has been a force to reckon with throughout the season, and this game was no exception. Quarterback Reagan Ricken led the charge with 131 passing yards and a touchdown.

His connection with wide receiver

Ryder Parks proved critical, as Parks contributed 63 receiving yards and crossed the goal line with a rushing touchdown. On the ground, the Wolfpack’s running game was equally effective, amassing a total of 241 rushing yards.

Ryder Smith stood out defensively, delivering two sacks and seven total tackles, three of which were for losses.

plunge, capping off a thrilling finish.

Hoze had an outstanding night, carrying the ball 25 times for 135 yards. Bachmeier completed 10 of 17 passes for 172 yards, adding 47 rushing yards to his tally. Treadwell contributed significantly with five receptions for 115 yards. Chambers was a standout performer for Rancho Cucamonga, throwing for 277 yards on 16-of-22 passing and rushing for 79 yards. Sermons caught seven passes for

123 yards in a valiant effort. Looking ahead, Murrieta Valley will need to maintain their composure and focus as they prepare for their upcoming matchup against Los Alamitos, The Nighthawks have shown their ability to handle pressure, and they’ll need to bring their best performance against the Griffins (6-5) this week to continue their playoff run.

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

His aggressive play helped stifle Coachella Valley’s attempts to gain momentum. The Wolfpack’s defense effectively neutralized any threats, leaving Coachella Valley struggling to mount a significant challenge.

This victory marked Great Oak’s fourth win by 21 points or more this season, a testament to their offensive firepower and defensive robustness. Over their last four games, the Wolfpack have clinched three victories, boosting their overall record to 5-6 for the season. Their recent success has been largely fueled by an impressive offensive average of 31.8 points per game during this stretch.

For Coachella Valley, Friday’s defeat snapped their five-game winning streak, leaving them with an 8-3 record. Despite their earlier successes, Coachella Valley was unable to contend with Great Oak’s multifaceted attack and relentless defense. Looking ahead, Great Oak will face off against St. Genevieve at 7 p.m. next Friday. St. Genevieve enters the contest on a hot streak, aiming for their ninth consecutive win. However, the Wolfpack are poised to defend their momentum

AnzA VAlley OUTLOOK

AnzA VAlley

Murrieta Valley’s Gabriel Lomeli (7) and Abelardo Leos (48) make the tackle on Rancho Cucamonga player in their Division 2 playoff game Friday, Nov. 8. Valley News/Andrez Imaging

Nighthawk TE Jacob Alvarez (1) runs for yardage after a catch Friday, Nov. 8, versus Rancho Cucamonga in their CIF-SS Division 2 playoff game.

RB Dorian Hoze (5) heads to the end zone for a touchdown in Murrieta Valley’s first round playoff win over Rancho Cucamonga. Valley News/Andrez Imaging Valley News/Andrez Imaging

Wolfpack senior Nicholas Diaz (20) runs in the last Great Oak touchdown of the night making the final score 42-7. Valley News/Rob Davis Photography The defense of Blake Leach (22) contributes to holding Coachella Valley down to a minimum. Valley News/Rob Davis Photography

Wolfpack junior, Ryder Smith (2), dives for another Great Oak touchdown versus Coachella Valley in their first round Division 9 playoff game. Valley News/Rob Davis Photography

Mustangs gallop past Pumas in high-octane playoff clash

JP Raineri Sports Editor

TEMECULA

– The Chaparral Pumas faced off against the Yorba Linda Mustangs last Friday in the first round of the CIF Southern Section Division 2 playoffs, a matchup that promised plenty of action and did not disappoint. Despite their strong regular season and an impressive offensive showing, Chaparral fell short, losing 42-32 in a game that saw both teams shine with their ground attacks.

Chaparral’s offense entered the playoffs riding high on their average of 33.2 points per game, largely thanks to sophomore quarterback Dane Weber. Weber, who threw for a commendable 233 yards and a touchdown in the previous game, continued to lead his team on the field. His season performances have been key, as he averaged 75.8 passing yards per game and scored nine total touchdowns. Tycen Johnson also made notable contributions, exhibiting his reliable skills with 100 receiving yards during the season.

The Pumas came into this game looking to bounce back after a tough 54-12 loss to Centennial, a top-ranked California team. Their challenge was compounded by Yorba Linda’s momentum, as the Mustangs had secured two consecutive wins prior to their playoff clash. Yorba Linda’s victory over the Sea Kings, with a final score of 21-14, set the stage for their impressive playoff performance.

Yorba Linda’s offense has been nothing short of explosive, spearheaded by standout player Holden Nagin. Nagin’s versatility was on full display as he rushed for 117 yards and passed for 23 yards and a touchdown in the regular season finale. Against Chaparral, he elevated his game even further, throwing for 126 yards and three

touchdowns, completing 75% of his passes. Aiden Gutierrez also played a critical role, rushing for 88 yards and scoring a touchdown on just 11 carries.

Defense also played a crucial role for both teams. Chaparral’s defense, led by senior linebacker Justin Selway, who averaged 8.7 tackles per game, and defensive end Shane Klingelberg, with a solid eight sacks over the season, worked diligently to keep Yorba Linda’s offense in check. However, the Mustangs’ offensive execution proved too much to handle.

The Mustangs moved past Chaparral’s defense, capitalizing on their offensive opportunities with strategic play-calling and execution. Their cohesive team performance throughout the game was evident in their ability to maintain the lead despite Chaparral’s persistent efforts.

Chaparral’s season, now ending with a 7-4 record, was marked by its offensive talent and individual achievements. Caden “CB” Butler, with an average of 60 rushing yards per game, consistently added value to the Pumas’ offense. Though the playoff outcome was not in their favor, Chaparral will look to regroup and build on this season’s

experiences for future campaigns.

With promising talents like Dane Weber leading the charge, the Pumas have the potential to evolve and come back stronger in the next season.

Meanwhile, with this win, Yorba Linda improved their record to

8-2 and advanced further in the playoffs. Their proficiency on the road, marked by five consecutive away wins, reflects their ability to perform under pressure.

In the end, Friday’s game was a classic playoff encounter—one that illustrated the intensity and

unpredictability of postseason football. While Chaparral’s playoff run concludes, Yorba Linda’s continues, and they will look to carry this momentum into the next round.

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

Murrieta’s 10U Blitzhawks’ unstoppable run continues towards Super Bowl glory

Raineri

Sports Editor

Murrieta Valley Pop Warner’s 10U Blitzhawks have soared through the season, remaining undefeated with an impressive 8-0 record. Their recent victory at the WCC Championship against the Oceanside Running Pirates was yet another milestone in a season filled with highs and challenges. Winning 28-20, the Blitzhawks demonstrated their relentless spirit and teamwork, triumphing even as they faced a series of setbacks, including injuries to key players. The Blitzhawks’ season has been nothing short of remarkable. Despite facing a host of injuries—from a broken foot to a fractured knee—the team has shown unwavering tenacity. With six players having missed games throughout the season, the Blitzhawks have repeatedly proven their mettle, emerging victorious in every match and clinching the title of undefeated Quarterfinal D1 10U Champions. Their latest triumph was a decisive 14-0 shutout against the Tustin Gold Cobras, despite facing immense pressure and contentious officiating.

As they prepare for the Pop Warner National Bracket Semi Final in Pasadena on November

FOOTBALL from page C-1

Knights with an emphatic 42-0 victory in their Division 6 firstround matchup. The Rams have now moved to a six-game winning streak, showcasing their dominance on the field.

Artyon Celestine was a standout performer, rushing for 52 yards and two touchdowns. His ability to make explosive plays was on full display, including a highlightreel catch that covered 55 yards, leaving Ontario Christian’s defense in the dust.

Murrieta Mesa’s fifth consecutive home victory elevates their standing to 7-4, a reflection of their offensive excellence, as they’ve averaged 42.0 points per game across this winning stretch. Ontario Christian, now with a 6-5 record, faced the end of their four-game away winning streak, leaving them to regroup after a tough playoff exit.

16, the Blitzhawks are just two steps away from realizing their Super Bowl dreams in Orlando, Florida. A victory in the upcoming Regional Championship on November 23 will secure their spot in the prestigious series.

The road to Florida, however, comes with financial challenges.

The dedicated coaching staff, led by Head Coach Matt Nunez, alongside Coaches Jon Dyer, Joseph Anderson, Nakoa McElrath, Dale Mullins, Thomas Rawson, Thomas Little, and Eddie Kaveney, have been instrumental in the team’s success. Yet, taking twenty-four boys to Florida is no small feat. The team has engaged in various fundraising activities throughout the season, including clothing drives, car washes, bingo nights, and an upcoming popcorn fundraiser. They are supported by Team Mom Tanya Dyer and Business Manager Robyn Anderson, whose efforts behind the scenes have been crucial to the team’s success.

The Blitzhawks have garnered immense support from their community, thanks to their intense sense of unity and shared vision.

Parents have rallied behind the team, offering unwavering support that has been crucial to their achievements.

The 10U Murrieta Blitzhawks celebrate their victory over the Tustin Gold Cobras, securing their spot as undefeated Quarterfinal D1 Champions. Valley News/Courtesy photo

The Blitzhawks’ roster is brimming with talent. Each player, from #52 to #98, contributes to the team’s prowess, bringing their unique strengths to every game. The team roster includes: #52 Cash Aceves, #3 Cooper Anderson, #41 Beau W. Bradley, #5 David Cantillo-Resendiz, #11 Cannon Clark, #83 Sebastian De La Torre, #9 Jaxon Dyer, #13 Jacob Fernandez, #4 JamesonJay Gabiola, #59 Wade Heater, #5 Issac Johannsen, #24 Braden Kaveney, #12 Shane Luyben, #99 Zeelan Nunez, #47 Bryce

Peterson, #40 Gianni Quaranta, #10 Gavin Rawson, #79 Hagen Sanserino, #7 Jameson Sletten, #89 Slater Smith, #1 Benjamin Stewart, #32 Jet Stover, #8 Ralph Terrian III, and #98 Aaron Ybarra.

As the Blitzhawks prepare for their next challenge, they remain focused on the task at hand— winning the next two games to secure their place in the Super Bowl series. With a target on their back as defending champions, the Blitzhawks are motivated to continue their winning streak. For those interested in

supporting the Blitzhawks’ Super Bowl journey, the team has set up a Venmo page for donations (see photo). Every contribution brings them one step closer to achieving their dreams and representing the City of Murrieta and Murrieta Valley Pop Warner- Youth Football and Cheer on the national stage. Send local sports tips and info to sports@reedermedia.com

Vista Murrieta’s Tyler Caldwell (13) looks to gain yards after making a catch against a Villa Park defender in last week’s first round Division 3 playoff game

Bronco LB Jayden Scott makes a tackle in Vista Murrieta’s first round playoff win over Villa Park.

Looking ahead, Murrieta Mesa will host Northwood this Friday at 7 p.m. Northwood is known for their stingy defense, having allowed just 9.3 points per game

this season. The Rams’ dynamic offense faces a challenging test, and fans eagerly anticipate another thrilling matchup. With both Vista Murrieta and

Murrieta Mesa advancing, local fans have much to cheer about as these teams continue their pursuit of playoff glory. Excitement is in the air as the season reaches its

critical phase, promising more drama and

Puma QB Dane Weber (6) runs in the first Chaparral touchdown against Yorba Linda in their CIF-SS Division 2 playoff game Friday, Nov. 8.

For those interested in supporting the Blitzhawks’ Super Bowl journey, the team has set up a Venmo page for donations. Valley News/Courtesy photo

Chaparral senior Shane Klingelberg, pictured here earlier this season against Temecula Valley, led the Pumas with 8.0 sacks on the year.

Valley News/Rob Davis Photography

Chaparral’s O-Line working hard to allow QB Dane Weber plenty of time to pass driving the ball down field. Valley News/Rob Davis Photography

Chaparral’s Liam Porter protects the QB from an aggressive Yorba Linda defense. Valley News/Rob Davis Photography

Valley News/Rob Davis Photography

Valley News/Files Owens Photography

How to improve the soil of your garden organically

Valley Staff

Improving your soil health organically is a sustainable way to boost your garden’s productivity without the use of commercial fertilizers. Here are several tips to help you enhance soil fertility and structure naturally:

1. Add compost

Compost is one of the best organic soil amendments. It adds nutrients, improves soil structure, and enhances water retention. You can create your own compost from kitchen scraps (vegetable peelings, eggshells, coffee grounds), garden waste (leaves, grass clippings), and manure. Compost also introduces beneficial microorganisms into the soil, which break down organic matter and make nutrients more accessible to plants.

How to use: Spread a 1-3 inch layer of compost over your garden beds and gently work it into the top few inches of soil.

2. Mulch with organic materials

Organic mulching helps conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and gradually breaks down to enrich the soil. You can use grass clippings, straw, leaves, wood chips, or shredded bark. Mulching also suppresses weeds and prevents soil erosion.

How to use: Apply a 2-4 inch layer of mulch around your plants, being careful not to pile it directly against the stems or trunks of plants.

3. Plant cover crops

Cover crops (also called green manures) are plants that are grown primarily to benefit the soil. They add organic matter, protect the soil from erosion, and, in the case of legumes like clover or vetch, fix nitrogen in the soil. After the cover crops grow, you can cut them down and till them into the soil or leave them as a mulch layer.

Common cover crops: Rye, clover, vetch, and alfalfa are great options for adding nutrients and protecting soil in the off-season.

4. Use aged animal manure

Aged manure from herbivores like cows, horses, chickens, or rabbits is an excellent source of nutrients and organic matter for your soil. It’s rich in nitrogen,

phosphorus, and potassium, the three essential macronutrients for plants.

How to use: Only apply aged or composted manure, as fresh manure can burn plants due to high nitrogen content. Work it into the soil in the fall or allow it to sit on the surface over winter.

5. Add worm castings Worm castings, or vermicompost, are another excellent organic amendment. They contain high levels of essential plant nutrients and beneficial microorganisms. Worm castings improve soil aeration, moisture retention, and fertility.

How to use: Sprinkle worm castings around your plants or mix them into the soil when planting.

6. Rotate crops

Crop rotation involves changing the types of crops grown in each part of your garden annually. It prevents nutrient depletion and reduces the likelihood of soilborne diseases and pests. Different plants have different nutrient requirements, so rotating crops ensures that one type of plant doesn’t overuse specific nutrients.

How to implement: Avoid planting the same family of crops in the same location year after year. For example, follow nitrogenhungry plants like tomatoes with legumes, which help restore nitrogen to the soil.

7. Avoid tilling

While traditional tilling is a common practice, it can disrupt soil structure and harm beneficial microorganisms and worms. No-till or low-till gardening helps maintain soil health and encourages the development of a healthy soil ecosystem.

Alternative to tilling: Layer organic matter like compost, leaves, and mulch on the soil surface and allow natural processes to break them down over time.

8. Use organic fertilizers and soil amendments

If you need an extra nutrient boost, opt for organic fertilizers such as bone meal (high in phosphorus), blood meal (rich in nitrogen), kelp meal (adds trace minerals), and rock phosphate. These are slower to release

nutrients than synthetic fertilizers, providing long-term soil health benefits.

9. Add mycorrhizal fungi

Mycorrhizal fungi form a symbiotic relationship with plant roots, helping plants absorb water and nutrients more effectively. You can introduce mycorrhizal inoculants to your soil, which benefit plant root systems and overall soil health.

How to use: Mycorrhizal

fungi can be purchased as a soil amendment and added directly to planting holes or mixed into the soil.

10. Incorporate biochar

Biochar is a type of charcoal that, when added to soil, enhances water retention, provides habitat for beneficial microorganisms, and improves nutrient availability. It’s an excellent way to sequester carbon in the soil and improve long-term soil fertility.

How to use:

By incorporating these organic practices, you’ll be building a healthier, more resilient soil ecosystem that supports plant growth without relying on synthetic fertilizers. Over time, these methods will improve both soil fertility and structure, ensuring a thriving garden for years to come.

RCWD approves agreements with flood control district

Joe Naiman Special to Valley News

Two Rancho California Water District board actions October 17 approved agreements with the Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District.

A 6-0 vote, with Brian Brady absent, approved a reimbursement agreement with the flood control district for a 36-inch water pipeline which will be relocated as part of the Murrieta Creek flood control project. A 7-0 vote approved the sale of 4,500 square feet of a parcel to the flood control district for the flood control project.

The Murrieta Creek Flood Control, Environmental Restoration, and Recreation Project includes four phases. The first phase provided channel improvements and environmental restoration in Temecula from the Front Street/Highway 79 South junction upstream to First Street. The second phase, which is also in Temecula, will provide channel improvements and environmental restoration between First Street and Winchester Road. Phase 3 will construct the detention basin, provide environmental restoration, and build a sports park between Winchester Road and Elm Street in Murrieta. Phase 4, which is entirely within Murrieta, will provide channel improvements and environmental restoration from the detention basin upstream to Tenaja Road and Vineyard Parkway. Phase 1 has already been completed as has Phase 2A to provide channel improvements from 1,000 feet downstream of First Street to 500 feet downstream of Rancho California Road. The U.S. Army

Joe Naiman Special to Valley News

Past construction of the Temecula Valley Wine Country sewer system has caused pavement subsidence on a part of Rancho California Road, and on November 6 the Eastern Municipal Water District board awarded a contract for the subsidence and pavement repairs. The 4-0 vote, with Stephen Corona absent, approved a $211,250 contract with Scorpion Backhoe, Inc., for the work. The board approved total appropriations of $273,875 which will also cover $25,000 for soils and staking expenses, $10,000 for inspection, $6,500 for internal labor, and a $21,125 contingency. The repair of an existing road was also found to be categorically exempt from

Corps of Engineers has obtained $47,834,000 of Federal funding for the construction of Phase 2B which entails channel improvements from 500 feet downstream of Rancho California Road to approximately Winchester Road.

The Murrieta Creek flood control project will require utility relocations. Three RCWD pipelines are in conflict with the planned improvements. The 12-inch, 24inch, and 36-inch diameter potable water pipelines cross Murrieta Creek within the project footprint.

The improvements include overexcavating the existing channel bottom by approximately 15 feet, which will expose those pipelines. RCWD staff reviewed the hydraulic model and the need for each of the three pipelines.

The 12-inch pipeline can be abandoned, but the 24-inch and 36inch pipelines must be relocated.

Rancho Water and flood control district s taff and legal counsel reviewed the pipeline easement documents. Rancho Water has prior rights for the 24-inch diameter pipeline, so relocation would be at flood control district or Army Corps of Engineers expense. It is uncertain whether Rancho Water has prior rights for the 36-inch diameter pipe.

The flood control district has agreed to pay 100% of the relocation cost for the 24-inch pipeline, which will have an estimated cost of $2,250,000, and has also agreed to pay 50% of the cost to relocate the 36-inch diameter pipe. RCWD and flood control district staff negotiated a maximum price of $1,250,000 for the RCWD 50% share to relocate the 36-inch pipeline.

The relocation costs are based on estimates prepared by the Army Corps of Engineers.

The agreement calls for the flood control district to include the pipeline construction activity as part of the project’s environmental documentation and approvals, and the flood control district will pay the $78,556 design costs to relocate both pipelines. Rancho Water will review and approve the relocation plans and will inspect the pipeline work. The water district will be financially responsible for those activities, and the board action also included allocating $75,000 to cover estimated expenses for staff time and inspection. The flood control district will grant Rancho Water 30-foot easements for the relocated pipelines and give the water district prior rights for the new 24-inch pipeline but not for the 36-inch pipeline. The work to abandon the 12-inch pipeline will be performed by the contractor at no expense to Rancho Water.

Well No. 118 is in the 28000 block of Diaz Road along Murrieta Creek. The well is inactive. The total parcel encompasses 10,500 square feet. The flood control district expressed interest in purchasing a strip of vacant land 30 feet by 150 feet outside the well site fence adjacent to Murrieta Creek. That land would be used as a maintenance road and a public trail.

The October 17 board action declared the land as surplus and authorized its sale to the flood control district for $3,900. Rancho Water will retain a 20 foot wide pipeline easement into the creek. Joe Naiman can be reached at jnaiman@reedermedia.com

California Environmental Quality Act review. A 15-inch diameter polyvinyl chloride (PVC) sewer was constructed in 2015. Although the construction records indicate acceptable construction methods to achieve the required soil compaction the sewer has experienced pavement failures at other isolated locations, typically following large or extended storm events. A portion of Rancho California Road north of where the current repairs will be undertaken was repaired in fall 2023 due to subsidence. Rainfall during early 2024 created additional subsidence. The current project will provide pavement replacement and subsurface reinforcement of approximately 250 feet of the westbound lane along Rancho

California Road west of Anza Road. The pavement on that lane, which is approximately 12 feet wide, will be replaced with three alternating base and geogrid layers. EMWD staff has coordinated the repair design approach with the County of Riverside’s Transportation Department and has obtained an encroachment permit to perform the work.

A request for proposals was issued September 11. Three bids were received by the September 27 opening date. Scorpion Backhoe, which is headquartered in Winchester, had the low bid of $211,250. NPG Asphalt of Perris had the second-lowest bid at $254,220.

Joe Naiman can be reached at jnaiman@reedermedia.com

Add compost to your soil to add nutrients and enhance water retention. Valley News/Kampus Productions photo (pexels.com)

Mix biochar into compost

directly into the soil at planting.

Highway Update

Caltrans

changing some ‘Airspace’

uses under, over and beside highways for fire reasons

Tony Ault Staff Writer

Caltrans hopes these changes will help protect the public and the state’s infrastructure and include ending open storage leases, increasing liability insurance coverage, barring the construction of new permanent buildings and prohibiting flammable materials.

Since the November 2023 arson fire under Interstate 10 in Los Angeles, Caltrans and the State Fire Marshal have been thoroughly reviewing the Airspace Lease program, which allows specific areas within state rights-of-way to be leased to tenants. Uses were identified that reduce the risk to the public and infrastructure. The programmatic changes announced recently are in addition to the risk mitigation measures implemented immediately after the I-10 fire as well as those others in February.

Caltrans will continue to work

with its current tenants as it implements the program changes.

Caltrans is committed to protecting the safety of the traveling public and sustaining the integrity of the highway infrastructure. It will review other recommendations as its assessment of the airspace leasing program continues.

Riverside/San Bernardino

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

Daytime work is scheduled Friday, November 15, between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m. Commuter access will be maintained. All work is dependent on the contractor receiving proper materials for each job function. It can be changed. or canceled at any time. Those projects include: Menifee/Murrieta

Caltrans construction will be taking place by ontractors performing work near the City of Menifee and City of Murrieta. Daytime work is scheduled from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., with shoulder closures in effect. Nighttime work is scheduled from 8 p.m.

and 5 a.m. and will require lane reductions. Night work is scheduled to conclude by Saturday morning. Crews are scheduled to work on both the southbound and northbound directions of Interstate 215. The project will improve road surface, update shoulder rumble strips, enhance culverts, upgrade guardrails, stabilize slopes, and boost highway worker safety along the stretch near Murrieta, from 1 mile north of Clinton Keith Road to 1 mile north of Newport Road. It can be changed or canceled at any time. This week, construction crews will focus on several key tasks, including landscaping, rock blanket installation, guardrail installation,and other related activities. Shoulder and lane closures will be in effect on northbound I-215 at the Scott Road Loop Off-Ramp for the rock blanket installation. Nighttime work will include lane reductions on southbound and northbound I-215 within project limits. Additionally, day work will continue on both directions of I-215 between Clinton Keith Road and McCall Boulevard. Commuter access will still remain open, with shoulder closures and lane closures in effect.

Hemet

In Hemet the Winchester Road to Lyon Ave. will see loop installation and striping in progress. Some flagging operations will occur primarily at night. Day work may be needed for various electrical and concrete restoration work. This may require temporary moving lane closures. Radar detection signs will be in place. Expect delays up to 15 minutes. Paving operations will be in progress from Lyon Ave. to Yale St., Some flagging will be at night. Day work may be needed for striping work. This may require temporary moving lane closures. This will be a layered paving operation which takes several weeks to complete. Daytime paving operations begin Wednesday, Nov. 13 from Yale St. to Fairview Ave. Crews will perform work in EB and WB directions. One through lane will remain open. Crews expected to work in 1-mile segments or less. Drivers should seek alternate routes to avoid delays! Traffic holds may occur for equipment relocation. Daytime paving expected completion by February 2025. Florida Ave. will remain open.

Curb ramp and sidewalk construction continue at different

locations throughout the project limits. There could also be some driveway and temporary lane closures at various locations. Pedestrians should also be aware of some sidewalk closures.. Other work throughout the work zone includes electrical and pothole repairs.

When working on driveways: Entry areas with more than one access point will require closing work area driveway(s) and direct traffic to other accessible entry points. This is to keep entry access open at all times. Watch for detour signs! Pedestrians beware of ongoing ADA curb ramp and sidewalk construction. Please follow indicated signage and watch for safety cones to avoid work areas. Loud noise due to daily work operations may occur. Speed limits will be reduced by 10 mph throughout the construction zone. Aguanga/Anza

There again is no construction scheduled in this area on Hwy 371 or Hwy 79 this week, however Caltrans says to be aware of some other projects including shoulder widening which will be beginning soon in these areas.

Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com

Veterans from Korean War and Vietnam War receive high school diplomas at Riverside County Operation Recognition Program

RIVERSIDE – Two Riverside County residents who were born in New York and served in the United States military during the Korean War and Vietnam War, were presented with high school diplomas decades after forgoing their education to serve their country. William Daniels of Lake Elsinore and Stephen Tomanelli of Poppet Flats donned graduation caps and tassels as the latest graduates of the Operation Recognition Program on Wednesday, Nov. 6, at the Riverside County Office of Education.

“Today’s event offers a profound opportunity to recognize and honor two individuals who have shown sacrifice and unwavering patriotism, and who answered the call to duty when our nation needed them the most,” said Riverside County Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Edwin Gomez, when addressing Mr. Tomanelli and Mr. Daniels at the ceremony.

“This event is a way for us to express our gratitude for your service to our nation, for your selflessness, and for your courage.”

The ceremony included performances by the Rubidoux High School Chamber Choir from Rubidoux High School in the Jurupa Unified School District, and the Navy Junior Reserves Officers’ Training Corps (NJROTC) from Martin Luther King High School in the Riverside Unified School District. The Riverside County Board of Education presented the diplomas to both graduates who were joined by friends and family in the audience.

“It gives me immense pride and gratitude to receive this honor at the age of 72. This has been a

personal mission and is a testimony to the enduring spirit of education,” said Mr. Tomanelli after receiving his diploma. “This is deeply meaningful and represents the closing of a chapter from more than 50 years ago. This is a reminder that it is never too late to pursue one’s dreams and finish one’s schooling. Education is a lifelong journey, and I hope my story of perseverance and determination can show that everything is possible.”

“I was very young when I remember being given an American flag. From that moment, I knew that I had to go into the service. When my grandmother told me about my father serving as a paratrooper, I knew I had to be a paratrooper too.” said Mr. Daniels after receiving his diploma. “It feels really great to receive this diploma.”

A total of 380 veterans have received a diploma through Operation Recognition since 2007.

The diplomas are awarded as a joint effort of the Riverside County Board of Education, the Riverside County Office of Education, and the Riverside County Department of Veterans’ Services. To be eligible for a diploma, individuals must have served in the U.S. Armed Forces in World War II, the Korean War, or the Vietnam War with an honorable discharge, or interned in a Japanese American relocation camp during World War II; and must currently reside in Riverside County. Education Code Section 51440 authorizes the granting of retroactive high school diplomas to eligible veterans.

Section 51430 also authorizes the retroactive granting of diplomas to Japanese-American citizens whose

internment by federal order in World War II prevented them from graduating from their hometown high school.

Stephen Tomanelli

Stephen Joseph Tomanelli grew up in the Bronx and attended public schools in New York City before economic pressures forced him to drop out after his sophomore year at Samuel Gompers Vocational High School.

To support himself and his family, Stephen pursued employment options that were a fit for his technical skills. His talents and interests led to employment opportunities in the nascent field of computers and technology.

With the looming prospect of being drafted to serve in the Vietnam War, Stephen decided to enlist in the United States Navy. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1969-1973 in roles ranging from a ceremonial guardsman at Arlington National Cemetery, to a fire control technician and ordnance mechanic on the USS Massey.

After returning to civilian life, Mr. Tomanelli earned his GED, and proceeded to follow multiple occupational opportunities that eventually led him to California. He utilized G.I. Bill benefits to advance his technical skills and purchase a home in the Sunnymead area of Riverside County.

His career in the technology field included providing early computer solutions to municipal and commercial customers in Riverside County. He has owned and operated his own computer sales and service business since 1986.

Mr. Tomanelli has served in various non-profit and

public service roles in the region—including as a current Commissioner on the Riverside County Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) since 2005.

Mr. Tomanelli is a resident of the Poppet Flats area with one of his grandchildren enrolled in the public schools in Riverside County.

William Daniels Shortly after he was born, William Daniels’ brother and mother passed away, and he was raised by his grandmother in Long Island, New York.

In 1952, at the age of 17, Mr. Daniels decided that he would find a way to join the U.S. Army and follow in the footsteps of the father he never met who served during World War II as part of the first Black parachute infantry battalion, the historic “Triple Nickel” 555th Parachute Infantry Company of the United States Army.

While in the U.S. Army during

the Korean War, William also jumped out of planes as part of the 187th Regimental Combat Team in the 11th Airborne Division. He served as a medic and surgical technician, among multiple roles that included the motor pool and multiple military occupational specialties. He received the Purple Heart for injuries received while in combat.

After the war, he earned his GED and continued his service to veterans in his role with Kaiser Permanente—which included providing home health care to veterans. As recently as 1998, he was still known to be jumping out of planes as a skydiver.

Mr. Daniels is 89 years old and has been married to his wife, Sylvia, for 31 years. They are residents of Lake Elsinore.

Submitted by the Riverside County Office of Education.

Urgent need for male advocates to support boys in foster care in Riverside County

had stable male role models. Valley News/Courtesy photo

RIVERSIDE — Voices for Children is calling on compassionate men in Riverside County to become volunteer Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) for boys in foster care. About 49% of the 5,900 children in foster care in Riverside County are boys, but only 17% of CASA advocates are male. Currently, 55 boys await advocates, with new children entering the system daily. The need is especially urgent for men of color, bilingual individuals, and residents in rural areas. CASA volunteers focus on one or two children at a time, building trusting relationships and working with social workers and caregivers to ensure children’s needs are met. Boys benefit significantly from positive male influences,

which research shows can improve outcomes like academic success and emotional resilience.

Voices for Children President & CEO Jessica Muñoz emphasized, “Volunteering as a CASA is a tangible way to impact a child’s future. Whether advocating in court or simply cheering from the sidelines, your influence can be life-changing.”

The story of CASA volunteer Daniel and his case child Anthony O. highlights this impact. Anthony, who spent a third of his life in foster care, found stability and confidence through CASA Daniel’s support. Today, Anthony is a UCLA graduate working in his dream field.

For more information or to volunteer, visit speakupnow.org.

Voices for Children highlights the benefit of male volunteer advocates for children in foster care who may not have

William Daniels, left, and Stephen Tomanelli, center, were presented with high school diplomas after forgoing their education to serve their country. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Edwin Gomez, right, spoke at a ceremony honoring the two men. Valley News/Courtesy photo

Walkers head out on their trek at the Anza Community Hall

Anza Valley Outlook/Enji Zuo photo

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

J.P. RAINERI, Sports

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 Hwy 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

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 Nov. 4 through Nov. 10. Nov. 4

Public assist - 5400 block Cave Rock Rd., Anza, handled by deputy

Public disturbance - 5400 block Bautista Canyon Rd., Anza, handled by deputy Check the welfare - 5900 block Wellman Rd., Anza, handled by deputy

Check the welfare - 4500 block Carrot Ln., Anza, handled by deputy

Public assist - 4400 block Tule Fire Rd., Anza, handled by deputy Trespassing - 5900 block Reservation Rd., Anza, handled by deputy Petty theft - 4600 block St. Hwy. 79, Aguanga, report taken Trespassing - 5200 block Elder Creek Rd., Anza, handled by deputy

Nov. 5 Civil dispute - 5400 block Bautista Canyon Rd., Anza, handled by deputy

Unattended death - address withheld, Lake Riverside, report taken

Nov. 6

Burglary - address undefined, Anza, unfounded Public disturbance - 5600 block Volkmann Rd./Hill St., Anza, handled by deputy

Public assist - 5200 block Cahuilla, Cahuilla, handled by deputy

Burglary - 3900 block Kirby Rd., Anza, arrest made Follow-up - address withheld, Anza, handled by deputy

Suspicious circumstanceaddress undefined, Anza, handled by deputy Nov. 7

Trespassing - 5900 block La Cima Rd., Anza, handled by deputy Battery - 5200 block St. Hwy. 371, Cahuilla, handled by deputy Incorrigable minor - address withheld, Lake Riverside, handled by deputy Criminal threats -5700 block

Mitchell Rd., Anza, arrest made Nov. 8 Emergency notification - address withheld, Anza, handled by deputy Check the welfare - 4100 block Jay Dee Ln., Anza, handled by deputy Check the welfare - 5600 block Whitlock, Aguanga, handled by deputy Unknown trouble - 4200 block Riverdale Dr., Lake Riverside, handled by deputy Fraud - 4400 block Tulr Fire Rd./Bliss Dr., Anza, handled by deputy Suspicious circumstance - 5200 block St. Hwy. 371, Cahuilla, report taken Follow-up - address withheld, Anza, handled by deputy Prowler - 4400 block Anderson Ln., Anza, handled by deputy Suspicious circumstance - 3700 block Hill St., Anza, handled by deputy

Nov. 9

Burglary - address undefined, Aguanga, handled by deputy Nov. 10 Runaway child - 3900 block Kirby Rd., Anza, handled by deputy No assumption of criminal guilt or affiliation should be drawn from the content provided in the Sheriff’s Blotter. Residents with information regarding any crimes are encouraged to contact the Hemet Sheriff’s Station at 951-791-3400. Criminal activity can also be reported through the We-Tip Crime Reporting Hotline,909-987-5005 or https://wetip.com Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia. com

Anza Electric Cooperative given $160,000 of county funding

Joe Naiman Special to Valley News

The County of Riverside’s Unincorporated Communities Initiative allocations will include $160,000 for the Anza Electric Cooperative.

A 5-0 Riverside County Board of Supervisors vote approved a funding agreement between the county and Anza Electric Cooperative, Inc. The money will be used for Phase 2 of the Anza Fuel Reduction and Tree Trimming Public Safety Improvement Project.

A November 2020 Board of Supervisors action created the Unincorporated Communities Initiative to improve the infrastructure and services provided to residents of unincorporated communities with an emphasis on disadvantaged unincorporated communities.

The program is funded through the Unincorporated Communities Fund which is allocated during the annual budget process.

The county’s 2024-25 budget included $10,000,000 for the Unincorporated Communities Fund divided evenly between

the five Supervisorial Districts. The funding for the Anza Electric Cooperative is from the Third District budget.

Phase 2 of the Anza Fuel Reduction and Tree Trimming Public Safety Improvement Project has a total estimated expense of $337,000. The project consists of local area fuel reduction and tree trimming near circuit lines to reduce fire hazards and improve public safety on more than 10 miles of utility easement located on the Anza Electric Cooperative system. The project is expected to be completed during Fiscal Year

2024-25. The agreement between the county and Anza Electric Cooperative, Inc., includes funding terms and project implementation requirements. Joe Naiman can be reached at jnaiman@reedermedia.com

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

Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo

Olivet University donates 1,000 lunch boxes to local families in partnership with

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

Olivet University donated over 1,000 new Bento lunch boxes for dispersal to local families and residents in partnership with Anza Electric Cooperative, Friday, Nov. 1.

This collaborative effort by the two nonprofit organizations seeks to provide a practical, reusable option for residents to take nutritious meals on the go, whether for work, school or community events. According to the University, they originally received a substantial donation of lunch boxes to support its students, staff, and faculty. However, when the supply exceeded campus needs, Olivet saw an opportunity to extend this gift to the broader Anza Valley community.

“We’re thrilled to have an opportunity to give back to our community,” said Dr. Nate Tran, Chairman of Olivet University.

“We truly appreciate Anza Electric Cooperative for helping

Indians made a grand contribution that allowed for donating 112 children’s coats. In the past we were lucky to receive 10 donations for children’s clothing. Such an amazing and well received gesture was greatly appreciated.”

Two hundred ten adult coats, many pairs of socks, mittens, hats and more were given out, with nothing left at the end of the event.

“The overwhelming response from our community to help our members in need is heartwarming and necessary,” said Hansen.

Olivet University donated brand new Bento lunch boxes for any residents that needed them.

According to Hansen, the first coat drive was held in 2019. From Oct. 21 to Dec. 10 Anza Electric Cooperative and The Anza Thimble Club collected 211 coats, sweaters, vests and jackets. These were made available for distribution at the December FIND Mobile Food Pantry at the Anza Electric Cooperative parking lot. This number did not include the multiple hats, gloves, mittens and scarves also provided.

Of those 211, 40 coats were left behind and donated to the local charitable organization From the Heart Christian Women’s Ministries.

“Due to Covid in 2020, sharing safely was not an option, therefore the coat drive was postponed,”

Anza Electric Cooperative

us distribute the lunch boxes and for their ongoing work in serving Anza residents.”

Valued at over $10,000, the lunch boxes will be distributed to families at upcoming community events with the help of the Anza Electric Cooperative. This effort is part of Olivet University’s ongoing commitment to local service, with students, faculty, and staff regularly volunteering at the Anza Coop’s monthly food pantry event.

“We delivered the lunch boxes to Betsy and Kevin at Anza Co-Op this morning,” said Tran. “They plan to distribute them at this weekend’s Anza Thimble Club coat giveaway and at the next FIND Food Bank distribution.”

Olivet University is grateful for the opportunity to give back to the community and looks forward to continuing its partnership with Anza Electric Cooperative.

Olivet University is a Christian institution based in Anza. To learn more, click http://www. olivetuniversity.edu/

For more information about the Anza Electric Cooperative and

said Hansen. “Thankfully, 2021 came as did the annual coat drive. This one was held at Minor Park under the pagoda. So many coats, so few people. Still, the garments that were left behind went to many people in need. No coat goes without an owner.”

The Anza Community Hall hosted the event in 2022, with 250 coats provided. Almost all of them were taken, leaving just a handful being donated to From the Heart.

“The 2023 coat drive was a whopping success. Over 250 coats were donated along with many pairs of socks, hats, gloves, mittens and scarves,” Hansen said. “The success of this adventure would not have been possible without the help of so many. To them we are all grateful.”

The Anza Thimble Club, established in 1912, is the oldest service club in the Anza Valley. It was created by several ladies who used the excuse of doing their mending to get together for a visit. This turned into monthly meetings and dues were a penny.

During World War II, the women made bandages for the Red Cross as a meaningful activity.

Since then, they have become a respected charitable organization donating much-needed funds back into the community of Anza.

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

the monthly FIND Food pantry giveaway, visit them at https:// www.anzaelectric.org/ Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia. com

Olivet University chairman Nate Tran, left, Kevin Short, Anza Electric Cooperative general manager, Betsy Hansen, Anza Electric Cooperative member services representative and Dr. Jonathan Park, Olivet University president display the new Bento lunch boxes that the University donated to Anza Electric Cooperative for dispersal to local families, Friday, Nov. 1. Anza Valley Outlook/Courtesy photo

The Santa Rosa Band of Cahuilla Indians donate funds to purchase 112 youth-sized jackets and coats at the sixth annual Anza Thimble Club’s coat giveaway Saturday, Nov. 2. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo

Olivet University donates new Bento lunch boxes boxes that are given out at the sixth annual Anza Thimble Club’s coat giveaway.

Hats and scarves are also available at no cost at the sixth annual Anza Thimble Club’s coat giveaway.

COATS

All walk proceeds are to be donated to Michelle’s Place Cancer Resource Center, located in Temecula. Michelle’s Place is a full service cancer resource center providing free programs to families dealing with cancer, including a variety of support groups, wigs, prosthesis, art programs, wellness classes, one on one support and more.

“Special thanks to Barbara Ann Keller, Birdie Kopp, Sister Shari, Debbie Northrup, Fauna Rangel, Tami Niederhaus Ferris, Dennis Whitfield, Michael Lewis, Michael Schneider, Jack and Gretchen Peckham, Eryn Sisk, Erinne Roscoe and Bud Elmore,” said organizer Lewis. “I could not have done it without any of you.”

Sponsors included Wicker Water Well Service, Star Milling, Valley Auto, Anza Electric Cooperative, ConnectAnza, Doggie D Tails, Anza Pizza Factory, Hamilton Museum, Redshank Riders, Olivet University, ERA Realty, Olivet Academy, Overland Realty, Spartan Veterinary Services, Bedrock Hair & Nails, Double A Ranch, Cali Produce Market, Anza Valley Pharmacy, Dairy Queen Anza, Backwoods Ranch, Robertson’s Family Homestead, S & K Grading, RHR Equine First Aid, KOYT 97.1 Anza Community Broadcasting, Once Upon A Thread Thrift Store and Lorraine’s Pet Supply & Pet Grooming.

Special dedications were made to Donna Bradley, Mike McCalister and Maureen Owens.

The Anza Community Hall succeeds with the support of the community. Community Hall

board meetings are open to the public and everyone is encouraged to attend.

Anyone interested in becoming a member of the Anza Community Building, Inc., or to discover upcoming events can call Pebbles Bartlett-Lewis at 951-760-9244, or Barbara Keller at 951-2824267, visit the Hall’s website at https://anzacommunitybuilding. org/ or their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/ groups/337754646415866

Anza Community Hall members enjoy event discounts and can join in three ways:

• An individual membership is $30 annually, with all discounts applying to one individual.

• Family annual memberships cost $50 and provide discounts for a group of up to five related individuals.

• An annual business membership is $50 and provides discounts for up to 4 individuals. Cash, PayPal and checks are accepted as payment.

Proceeds from memberships go toward the Anza Community Hall’s general fund and are used for maintenance and programs sponsored by the Hall.

To donate, please click https:// anzacommunitybuilding.org/ donations/ Michelle’s Place may be contacted on the web at https:// michellesplace.org.

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

Enji Zuo contributed photos to this report.

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

Walkers make their way toward the Hamilton Museum at the Anza Community Hall Breast Cancer Walk, Chili Cook-Off and Craft Fair Saturday, Oct. 26.

Anza Valley Outlook/Enji Zuo photo

Cancer awareness displays and free merchandise decorate the Hall at the Anza Community Hall Breast Cancer Walk, Chili Cook-Off and Craft Fair.

Anza Valley Outlook/Enji Zuo photo

Glass and ceramic artist Val Vinson displays her work at the Anza Community Hall Breast Cancer Walk, Chili Cook-Off and Craft Fair Saturday, Oct. 26. Anza Valley Outlook/Enji Zuo photo

Ladies from the Anza Quilters Club chat with other vendors at the Anza Community Hall Breast Cancer Walk, Chili Cook-Off and Craft Fair.

Anza Valley Outlook/Enji Zuo photo

Olivet University students participate in the Anza Community Hall Breast Cancer Walk, Chili Cook-Off and Craft Fair. Anza Valley Outlook/Enji Zuo photo

Erinne Roscoe, KOYT 97.1 LPFM Anza Community Radio program director, entertains visitors at her booth at the Anza Community Hall Breast Cancer Walk, Chili Cook-Off and Craft Fair. Anza Valley Outlook/Enji Zuo photo

Event participants browse vendor displays at the Anza Community Hall Breast Cancer Walk, Chili Cook-Off and Craft Fair. Anza Valley Outlook/Enji Zuo photo

Robyn Garrison whips up her chili at the Anza Community Hall Breast Cancer Walk, Chili Cook-Off and Craft Fair Saturday, Oct. 26. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo

Cauldrons of chili are produced for the contest at the Anza Community Hall Breast Cancer Walk, Chili CookOff and Craft Fair Saturday.

Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo

OPINION

The election is over but the real work has just begun

Julie Reeder Publisher

President Trump is going to be the 47th president of the United States of America. It is a tremendous victory. There’s been really nothing like it in American history in terms of what he had to overcome to gain his seat back or his office back. He faced large odds that no other president or candidate for presidency has ever faced. And he promoted and grew a broad national coalition that could have potentially long lasting solidity in our nation’s political life where he increased support among certain key demographics that I feel like have been taken for granted over the decades and after seeing how their lives are worse today than four years ago just couldn’t put up with it anymore.

I’m in my 60s. I still don’t understand how a 78 year old person could do the amount of campaigning he did, talking to hundreds of thousands of people every day. That’s just one point.

Trump is on a mission. After being a political target for many years of his enemies, two assassination attempts, and the

media lying about him as a Nazi and Fascist, I believe people are waking up to the fact that maybe they’ve been lied to. I think after seeing that the media lied about the Russia hoax, the Hunter Biden laptop, and many other things. He has been labeled a dictator, etc. and all his voters the same. Is the idea of Make America Great Again, so evil? I think the left just went so far to the left that the light of day was shining brightly on them. While Kamala paid entertainers to gather around her, Trump was building coalitions of the brightest minds like Elon Musk, RFK, Jr. Vivek Ramaswamy, and Tulsi Gabbard. Three of them were Democrats who changed sides after they saw what was going on and were rejected by their own party. Even Bernie Sanders is acknowledging that the Democrat party has left their constituents for far out radical ideologies.

The media complains that their side doesn’t have a Joe Rogan (popular podcaster) but they fail to see that Rogan was a Bernie Sanders supporter, as was I believe Tim Poole and many other podcasters who were Democrats until they started educating themselves through free speech, which their party was trying to squash.

Trump said, “God spared my life for a reason. And that reason was to save our country and to restore America to greatness. And now we are going to fulfill that mission together. We’re going to fulfill that mission. The task before us will not be easy, but I will bring every ounce of energy, spirit, and fight that I have in my soul to the job that you’ve entrusted to me. This is a great job. There’s no job like this. This is the most important

job in the world, just as I did in my first term. I will govern by a simple motto. Promises made, promises kept. We’re going to keep our promise. Nothing will stop me from keeping my word to you, the people. We will make America safe, strong, prosperous, powerful, and free again. And I’m asking every citizen all across our land to join me in this noble and righteous endeavor. That’s what it is. It’s time to put the divisions of the past four years behind us. It’s time to unite. And we’re going to try. We’re going to try. We have to try and it’s going to happen. Success will bring us together. I’ve seen that.”

It’s a big deal. It’s also a big victory for the rule of law. He needs to clean house and get rid of the permanent Washington people who are bought and paid for by special interests, the military industrial complex, big pharma and big food.

To go through all the challenges he had to overcome in order to achieve what he did is, I believe, the most remarkable political comeback in American history. I don’t know of anything comparable.

Tom Fitten from Judicial Watch said, “The voters broadly and directly repudiated the lawfare targeting Trump, as well as the dangerous government abuses and contempt for the rule of law endemic here in Washington DC. President Trump had to overcome unprecedented abuse by corrupt and partisan prosecutors, politicians, and judges, all of whom tried to rig the election by smearing, raiding, investigating, prosecuting, trying convicting and gagging President Trump.

In short, president Trump needs

to clean house. The FBI and Justice Department are irredeemably compromised and corrupt, and the government abusers who targeted Trump and other innocent Americans should be subject to criminal investigation. And as sunlight is the best disinfectant, president Trump should open wide the deep state files on politicized deep state lies and corruption, especially its war on the rule of law, constitutional government, our First Amendment and other civil rights.”

It isn’t retaliation. It’s justice, transparency and cleaning house.

My fear is that while the people have spoken, the deep state, or permanent Washington, is working overtime to protect themselves, especially if records are going to be opened and if there is going to be transparency. There’s a lot at stake and I believe this is a very dangerous time for Trump and Vance.

Most people don’t probably understand what happened during the transition from Obama to Trump after the 2016 election. It was anything but peaceful. And if you think I’m being extreme, I would invite you to consider what has happened since 2016.

They used the transition meetings to spy on him at the highest levels, and this isn’t my opinion. It was part of the DOJ’s Independent Council’s report.

Tom Fitton from Judicial Watch points out, “They used the orderly transition of government to engage in sedition and spying on the incoming president and efforts to destroy him and undermine him from within, right from the beginning.”

So Trump’s older and wiser now. Even Kash Patel, who was

School district opposition to photo ID doesn’t apply to themselves

Joe Naiman Special to Valley News

My opposition to requiring government-issued photo identification to vote only applies if a fee is charged for that government document. Requiring a government document for which a fee is charged to vote violates the Constitution’s 24th Amendment prohibiting a poll tax, and if a fee is charged I support a photo ID requirement to vote about as much as I support waiving the Fifth Amendment guaranteeing the right to property so that a politician’s home or office can be burglarized to fund a good cause. If government-issued photo identification is required but no fee is charged for that document, my opposition to requiring photo ID to vote would disappear.

It is thus ironic that the education establishment which opposes government-issued photo ID to vote requires school volunteers to provide government-issued photo ID even if they have no unsupervised contact with children or little contact at all. A Crawford High School alumni communication I received noted that volunteer participation at a recognition breakfast would not happen due to the San Diego Unified School District requirements for volunteering. The communication included a copy of the SDUSD policy for school volunteers.

The policy has four types of volunteer levels. Category A is for visitors who enter a school for a one-time event and have no unsupervised exposure or contact with children. Category B covers volunteers with group exposure who have little or no direct unsupervised exposure or contact with children. Category C is for volunteers with classroom exposure who work directly with students and may have unsupervised time with those students but only on school district property with district personnel on-site. Category D is for volunteers with unrestricted exposure such as walk-on coaches, off-site tutors and mentors, and overnight chaperones.

Category A volunteers must be able to present current governmentissued photo identification as well

as being sponsored or approved by a school site or district employee, signing the volunteer sign-in sheet, and displaying a volunteer identification badge. Category B includes those four requirements along with completing and submitting for approval the school district volunteer application, being checked on the sexual offender data base by designated site personnel, and presenting a tuberculosis clearance card or obtaining a tuberculosis risk assessment form from the school nurse.

There is a minimum age of 18 to vote, but voters are not prohibited from having their children accompany them to the polls. Voters may also be around children albeit not unsupervised. If as the education establishment believes voters should not be required to present governmentissued photo identification then why should school volunteers need to do so?

The likely reason San Diego Unified School District students only had a graduation requirement of two years of science between ninth and twelfth grades when I

was a junior high school and high school student is that in those years they didn’t trust us not to make our own drugs or explosives if we knew how. I had the mandatory two years of science between ninth and twelfth grades along with one semester during my two years in seventh and eighth grades. We had to get our drugs or firecrackers from Mexico.

We didn’t need Mexican imports in our quest for A000. The San Diego City Schools had an early version of the Internet with an account series for each school, and in some cases students would be given their own account within that series. A000 was the master account. Some computer class or computer club members tried to get the password to A000, although I don’t believe any of them were successful.

Computer hacking has proliferated since the days of A000. If a volunteer provides his or her driver’s license to the school it is possible that some student or other hacker will be able to access that person’s date of birth, driver’s license number, and address. That’s more of a security

risk than being around children while being supervised by school district personnel.

I can support photo ID and background checks for Category C and Category D volunteers, but common sense rather than my desire not to waive the Constitution for a good cause is why I oppose requiring photo ID for Category A and Category B volunteers.

As is the case with the ban on soda and candy at schools, the requirement only applies during school hours and not at athletic contests or practices so I don’t need to hand over my ID to check with coaches about their athletic needs and any data base research involving yearbooks can be done through the alumni association rather than through the school yearbook advisor so my volunteer skills don’t require me to put my personal data at risk. But if the school district leaders don’t want a requirement of governmentissued photo identification for voters why do they want it for their own volunteers who don’t have unsupervised contact?

at the helm of investigating how Hillary’s bought and paid for fake dossier began the Mueller investigation. Then Trump naively allowed to continue and even funded it, because he knew he was innocent. He won’t fall for the same mistakes again. Now, instead of surrounding himself with hawks like pro-war Bolton, he is surrounding himself with people he can trust and who are capable. My hope is that the Democrat party will reorganize and kick out the corrupt politicians and rethink their agenda to serve more of the regular citizens and not just the elite and the fringe. Even though I wouldn’t vote for Bernie because he is a self proclaiming Socialist, I don’t believe Bernie is a liar. He was a victim of the party apparatus as well and should be listened to.

I would also hope that name calling would end or at least be toned down on both sides. I hate it when Trump does it. I think in the case of the left calling him a Nazi, dictator, or Fascist, it’s a sign of someone who has lost the intellectual argument and it’s used to make it “OK” to not provide that “dangerous” person the rule of law, secret service protection or to beat them with any means necessary, including death. Hopefully the time of using lawfare against political enemies is over. Transparency and justice are important, but lawfare is evil and hurts our Constitutional Republic. I am encouraged and hopeful, but cautious and certainly not believing that everything is going to be butterflies and rainbows from here on out. There is just too much work to be done and too much at stake.

Letter to the Editor

Dear Editor,

It’s obvious that Kamala Harris was a terrible candidate for U.S. President, and one of the worst candidates in modern history. This is evident because she was soundly defeated by her rival, a twice impeached former President who has some 34 New York felony convictions, and civil liabilities for sexual abuse and inflated realestate valuations, also in New York State (a Democrat bastion.) He is still under current federal indictment by the Biden-Harris Administration, and under indictment by Georgia’s Fulton County D.A., another partisan Democrat.

Yet this the alleged scoundrel, now President-Elect, defeated Harris with a convincing victory of over 70 million votes and over 300 electoral votes. So, it is selfevident that Harris was indeed such a terrible candidate to get so badly beaten by a twice “impeached” and “convicted felon.” This is one for the history books.

Sincerely,

Rick Reiss Temecula