Firefighters from CalFire/Riverside County Fire Department, officers and veterinary staffers from Riverside County Animal Services and the Riverside City Fire Department’s Heavy Animal Rescue Team joined forces to save the animal, a 12-year-old female named Butter.
Temecula is now home to U.S. Bank’s first Business Access Hub
TEMECULA - Launched in early November, a Business Access Hub between U.S. Bank and the Entrepreneurial Resource Center (ERC), an extension of the Inland Empire Center for Entrepreneurship at California State University San Bernardino, was established.
City of Murrieta announces new
MURRIETA - The Murrieta
City Council announced Justin Clifton as its new City Manager upon the retirement of Kim Summers in January.
Clifton joined the City earlier this year as Assistant City Manager, helping with the daily operations of the City, achieving the City Council’s goals, strategic planning, implementing best practices, refining policies and procedures, assisting in the management of City departments and programs, and providing oversight of the City in the City Manager’s absence.
“I am thrilled to take on the role as City Manager,” noted Clifton.
“I’m excited to work in the community my family and I love and to be part of such an amazing team.
I’m committed to accomplishing the vision set forth by our City Council and working hard to continue to make Murrieta better for our residents.”
Clifton has over 15 years of experience serving as a City Manager, overseeing and building high-performing organizations to improve communities.
“I am very happy with the City Council’s decision,” shared current City Manager Summers. “Justin is dedicated to serving the public, professional, energetic, and has a keen focus on creating a positive environment for the employees to continue the work that has been started. He also has plans for many new and exciting projects and programs. I am confident that his talents will inspire our City to grow while maintaining the highest standards of service that the Murrieta citizens deserve.”
Clifton holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the Fort Lewis College in Political Science and Philosophy and holds a Master
city manager
Temecula Valley Rose Society dedicates new pollinator garden at Rose Haven Heritage Garden
Pollinator Garden will strive for conservation and preservation of both plants and pollinators.
The Pollinator Garden is the newest section to be developed at Rose Haven, with a global climate change message of caring for the earth by incorporating land-use practices known as permaculture, increasing habitat, improving soil, air, water, productivity, and health. The garden includes native bird, butterfly, bee and bat habitats attracting these pollinators to the many SoCal native plant species that are showcased.
Justin Clifton has been named new City Manager of Murrieta. Valley News/Courtesy photo
The new Pollinator Garden includes native bird, butterfly, bee and bat habitats attracting these pollinators to the many SoCal native plant species that are showcased. Valley News/Courtesy photo
up
rescue a miniature horse that had fallen into a well on Friday night, Nov. 1, east of Lake Elsinore.
Conditional Use Permit approved by Wildomar City Council for new cannabis dispensary
Tony Ault Staff Writer
The Wildomar City Council in a narrow 3-2 vote approved a Conditional Use Permit for the construction of a new cannabis facility in a Clinton Keith shopping center at its Nov. 13 meeting.
The Cake House East will be a 3,936 square-foot facility built in the Catt Crossing Retail Center located at 23825 Catt Road. It is the second Cake House dispensary, with the other located at 32475 Clinton Keith Road, and the third dispensary in the city. After an extensive review with the sheriff’s and fire departments, school districts and checking the city’s zoning and construction regulations and benefits, the Wildomar Planning Commission determined the CUP meets the findings for a Categorial Exemption Act in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act and the council can approve
the CUP as outlined for the proposed retail business. It was explained by Matthew Bass from the Planning Department that the current Cake House Dispensary has not been a problem in the community according to the sheriff and other merchants.
The new Cake House East is near Interstate 215 and will be a new building with sound walls and limited lighting so as not to disturb the neighborhood homes in the area.
Several residents did appear at the public hearing to voice their objection to having yet another cannabis dispensary in the city saying it does not meet the city standards and would be a poor influence to the children in the community. They said the earlier councils objected to having any marijuana grows or dispensaries in the city.
However, with the State of California and its voters legalizing marijuana use and cannabis sales and grows both as a medical
and recreational drug, cities have had little reason not to allow such retail businesses to come into their communities. A few cities, like Temecula, have managed to ban any type of marijuana sales, yet like those that do permit them, the taxable legal sales have helped fund their capital improvements and public safety programs.
Wildomar Mayor Pro Tem Ashley DePhillippo, who said she followed her district’s desires not to have any dispensaries in the district and Councilmember Carlos Marquez who said he did not believe they were a good influence on residents’ children, voted no on the recommended approval of the CUP and adopting the business, subject to the conditions of opening a legal cannabis retail store.
The two motions passed with the majority 3-2 votes.
The council gave their consent for a group called My Safe Riverside to join with the city’s annual Breakfast With Santa on Dec. 7 at
Marna O’Brian Park. The Memorandum of Understanding would make it a dual event with the My Safe group providing needed information about how to keep homes safe from wildfires and free lunches at the event.
The council authorized bonds in the amount of $55 million to be sold by Wildomar Family Housing that plans to build a 130-unit residential rental project called Wildomar Cottages at 32650 Mesa Drive. The approval was done after the Tax Equity and Fiscal Responsibility Act Public Hearing was called. Councilmember Marquez called his attention to the area residents around the proposed project questioning if the city has done a traffic and parking problem study for the project. While another questioned the city’s liability if the project went bankrupt.
Staff said the contractor has the sole responsibility for the bonds to be paid off over time and even if so they would still be responsible
to pay off the debt. Staff said the city would have no responsibility to pay the debt.
Marquez still voted no on approving the project, but it passed with a 4 to 1 vote.
There were three other public hearings held to approve the levy of special taxes in three community facilities districts, Oak Springs Ranch II, Westpark Promenade Tract and Wildomar Commerce Center. The property tax collections pay for the city services from public safety to landscaping maintenance and are collected over a long length of time. They were approved in unanimous votes 5-0. Three General Business items were discussed making some changes to the municipal codes with the approval of the council. Those can be reviewed on the city’s website at www.cityofwildomar. org Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com
Parks district awards contract for Lake Skinner Recreation Area modernization
Joe Naiman Special to Valley News
The Riverside County Regional Park and Open-Space District has approved a construction contract for the modernization of Lake Skinner Recreation Area facilities.
The Riverside County Board of Supervisors members are also the board members for the Riverside County Regional Park and Open-Space District. The county supervisors’ 5-0 vote on Nov. 5 awarded Spec Construction Co., Inc., a $6,863,500 contract for the work. The supervisors also approved three addenda to the bid documents, approved a total project budget of $8,306,429, and authorized the use of up to $1,006,429 of Development Impact Fee payments for costs
associated with the work.
The Lake Skinner Recreation Area facilities include campgrounds, day use areas, playgrounds, splash pads, a camp store, two boat launch areas, a fish cleaning facility, and storage for recreational vehicles, trailers, and automobiles. Three separate projects will be part of the Lake Skinner Recreation Area Modernization Project. Upgrades to Boat Launch No. 1 will include upgrades to the boat launch ramp and related infrastructure, improvements to meet current Americans with Disabilities Act standards, upgrades to the fish cleaning stations, parking lot improvements, and signage. The water valve upgrades will replace inoperable or outdated water valves throughout the park. The roadway rehabilitation will
repair and apply asphalt pavement and sealer for approximately 1.8 miles of internal roadways and parking area.
On August 27 the county supervisors acting as the district board voted 5-0 to approve the advertisement for bids of the construction contract, set a September 23 bid opening date, approve the contract documents including the plans and specifications for the Lake Skinner Recreation Area Modernization Project, and find the operation, repair, and maintenance of existing public facilities to be categorically exempt from California Environmental Quality Act review. Three previous Riverside County Regional Park and Open-Space
District board actions approved a total of $6,300,000 of American Rescue Plan Act funds for the Lake Skinner Recreation Area Modernization Project. Three addenda were issued during the bid period. Six bids were received. Spec Construction Co., Inc., which is based in Ontario, submitted the low bid. The Spec Construction bid consisted of a $5,983,500 base bid. The bid structure included builders’ risk insurance as an alternate bid, and the Spec Construction amount for that was $80,000. The $6,863,500 contract amount also includes an $800,000 owner-controlled allowance. The total $8,306,429 budget also includes $1,027,929 for plans, specifications, and estimates, $215,000 for administrative costs, and $200,000 for inspection expenses. A $1,000,000 allocation from the county’s park acquisition and development fund will complement the developer fee and ARPA funding. The scope of the work will require a full closure of Boat Launch No. 1 until the project is completed, and the Lake Skinner Recreation Area will be fully closed from January 2025 to February 2025. The work is scheduled to begin later this month and be completed by summer 2025. Joe Naiman can be reached at jnaiman@reedermedia.com.
‘Sideshow’ enforcement operation combats illegal activities in De Luz
TEMECULA – California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers and Riverside County Sheriff’s Department (RSO) deputies teamed up to combat illegal street racing and sideshow activities in the De Luz community west of the City of Temecula on Friday, Nov. 8.
Over recent weeks, several De Luz residents have complained to the CHP and Riverside County Sheriff’s Department about nearweekly sideshows occurring primarily on weekend evenings. In response to these complaints, the CHP and RSO coordinated and planned an enforcement operation for the evening of Friday, Nov. 8. CHP personnel included one CHP sergeant and two officers from the CHP, Temecula Area Special Investigations Unit (SIU). RSO personnel included two RSO deputies from the Southwest Sheriff’s Station, and four deputies from RSO’s Takeover Racing EnforcEment Team (STREET).
CHP and RSO investigators conducted surveillance, and at approximately 11:15 p.m., a large group of motorists arrived, most with passengers (including even an infant), and they began engag-
ing in sideshow activities. The task force contacted and detained all involved parties on scene.
There were a total of 7 vehicles involved in the sideshow incident with a total of 12 participants/ spectators. The ages of the participants ranged from 17 to 24 years of age. CHP and RSO investigators impounded a total of four vehicles and issued 11 misdemeanor citations. Charges included: Exhibition of speed, reckless driving, driving unlicensed, child endangerment, minor in possession of alcohol, and a misdemeanor warrant. Numerous mechanical violations were cited, including modified emissions systems, excessive exhaust noise, and expired vehicle registration.
The CHP would like to remind the motoring public that sideshows—often involving street racing, car stunts, and large crowds—may seem exciting, but they pose serious risks to participants, bystanders, and communities. These events typically lack the safety precautions of regulated environments, leading to accidents, injuries, and even fatalities.
Remember to:
Stay Clear : Avoid attending or getting close to sideshows. Vehicles can easily lose control, putting everyone nearby in harm’s way.
Know the Law : Sideshows are illegal in many areas, and being involved can lead to serious consequences, including fines, vehicle impoundment, and criminal charges.
Be a Safe Driver: The skills displayed in sideshows are not meant for public roads. Reckless driving endangers everyone, from pedestrians to other drivers. Respect traffic laws and encourage others to do the same.
Let’s keep our streets safe. Choose to enjoy driving responsibly and in controlled environments and help spread awareness about the dangers of illegal sideshows. CHP, RSO, and allied law enforcement agencies have a zerotolerance policy on illegal street racing and sideshows.
The CHP’s mission is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security to the People of California.
Submitted by California Highway Patrol.
of Arts degree from Colorado University, Denver in Political Science and Public Policy. In ad-
dition, he has previously held the designation of Credentialed Manager from the International City/ County Management Association (ICMA) for more than 10 years
CLIFTON from page A-1 and holds numerous certifications in organizational excellence, leadership, public engagement, consent building and Lean process improvement.
We do more than just build your business –we help build your BRAND.
Murrieta’s more than 115,000 residents live in one of the safest cities in the U.S., with top-ranked schools, 53 parks, and a dynamic business environment. Central to all of Southern California, Murrieta is truly the gem of the valley. With a median age of 36 and an average household income of $136,000, Murrieta boasts a welleducated population and a strong labor force. Ranked as one of the fiscally healthiest full-service cities (with more than 100,000 residents) in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego counties, Murrieta’s future is undoubtedly bright.
Miniature horse rescued from well
WARM SPRINGS - Multiple
agencies teamed up to rescue a miniature horse that had fallen into a well on Friday night, Nov. 1, east of Lake Elsinore.
Firefighters from CalFire/Riverside County Fire Department, officers and veterinary staffers from Riverside County Animal Services and the Riverside City Fire Department’s Heavy Animal Rescue Team joined forces to save the animal, a 12-year-old female named Butter.
The horse crashed through a plywood-covered well in the unincorporated area of Warm Springs, east of Lake Elsinore and north of the city of Canyon Lake. Although the approximately 350-pound horse fell initially about 15 feet, the well was actually 60 feet in depth after water was siphoned. The rescue efforts started early Friday (Nov. 1) afternoon and ended at about 10 p.m.
Rescuers initially feared such a drop would have killed or severely injured the horse. However, once rescuers raised the horse out of the well, Dr. Itzel Vizcarra of Riverside County Animal Services examined it on site and determined the horse didn’t appear to have any serious injuries.
Butter is back with her owner.
Firefighters wrapped an Anderson sling around the horse and she was safely hoisted up using a
GARDEN from page A-1
The garden layout addresses water capture and erosion control with rock-lined basins meandering throughout, enhanced by four walking bridges, Zuni bowls, and educational signs explaining the benefits of this type of purposeful landscaping design. A new education area includes benches for presentations and seminars to learn more about these features. Both past and future garden additions serve to educate and promote global issues that affect us all, including soil and water sustainability, the pollination of our plants and the health of our wildlife.
a well on Friday, Nov. 1.
front-loader. Butter was sedated prior to takeoff.
“We were all amazed she came out without any major trauma,” Dr. Vizcarra said. “This was a huge team effort by many rescuers, so it’s uplifting to learn Butters will be OK.”
Dr. Vizcarra said she was concerned about the possibility of hypothermia. Her colleagues dried Butter and wrapped her with a heavy blanket. She also treated the horse’s wounds and injected pain medication.
“She was visibly shaking while
“Today’s dedication of the new Rebecca Weersing Pollinator Garden was a wonderful event culminating months of planning, planting and development,” stated Roger Fitness, chairman of the Rose Haven Committee. “We could not have succeeded in this effort without the leadership of project manager Nancy Fitness, and the support of our generous donors, members and volunteers who put in countless hours of work. The garden is named in honor of Rebecca Weersing, current president and long-time member of the Rose Society, and a major benefactor of the Pollinator Garden.”
still strapped,” she said. “It’s astounding that she walked away fine the same day.”
Animal Services has worked with both Riverside County Fire Department firefighters and with H.A.R.T. members on training exercises in years past. Animal Services also trains regularly with the Norco Animal Rescue Team (N.A.R.T.)
“It was great to put all those training sessions to good, practical use on a real event,” said Lt. Kyle Stephens, who participated in the efforts on Friday. “This was
definitely a great team effort by all those involved.”
The owner was told to take Butter to his own veterinarian for a follow-up examination, which he did do. Animal Services officer
Lupe Villa followed up with the owner and visited Butter to check up on the animal’s status. Butter appeared to be doing great, the officer reported.
Riverside City Fire Division Chief Tony Perna praised the efforts.
“The Riverside City Fire Department Technical Rescue Team
takes pride in supporting local animal rescue efforts,” Perna said. “Our department’s Heavy Animal Rescue Team is dedicated to collaborating with neighboring jurisdictions to enhance our rescue operations, expand training opportunities and strengthen our capabilities.”
For more images related to this rescue, please follow us on Instagram @riversidecountyanimalservices.
Submitted by Riverside County Department of Animal Services.
About Rose Haven Heritage Garden
Rose Haven Heritage Garden, begun in 1991, is home to approximately 2,000 roses: hybrid teas, floribundas, climbers and mini-roses. In addition, the Garden features succulents and xeriscape plant sections, Tree of Life produce garden, Peace and Friendship Garden, formal French and English gardens, a reflection pond, gazebo, and pavilion available for rental for weddings and other special events. It’s a variety of environments connected by one purpose: An escape from the hustle-bustle of daily life.
Rose Haven Heritage Garden is a member of the American Public Gardens organization and a certified wildlife sanctuary recognized by the National Wildlife Federation in 2011. Visitors are always
Miniature horse Butter stands among the team that helped rescue her from
Multiple agencies teamed up to rescue miniature horse Butter that had fallen into a well.
Valley News/Courtesy photos
Rose Haven Heritage Garden is a member of the American Public Gardens organization and a certified wildlife sanctuary recognized by the National Wildlife Federation in 2011.
Guests gather for the dedication ceremony of the new Rebecca Weersing Pollinator Garden at Rose Haven Heritage Garden.
Valley News/Courtesy photos
Murrieta Field of Honor lunch honors veterans, others
MURRIETA - Hundreds of military veterans, their friends and family dined among the 2,024 flags at the Murrieta Field of Honor in Town Square Park on Wednesday, Nov. 13. The luncheon, which is free to all veterans, is hosted by the Rotary Clubs of Murrieta and Old Town Temecula.
In addition to the veterans, city and county officials, local dignitaries and members of at least four local-area Rotary clubs were in attendance. Dr. Jim Yanoschik, president of the Murrieta club, and Kevin Willis, president of the Old Town Temecula club served as masters of ceremonies. Judy Zulfiqar, Rotary District 5330 Governor, welcomed guests and spoke on Rotary. Kenneth Hedrick, a veteran, community contributor and Grand Marshall of Murrieta’s Veterans Day parade, sang the National Anthem and the Salute to the Armed Forces. All veterans present were invited to introduce themselves and say where they served.
While the lunch celebrates all veterans, the Murrieta Field of Honor selected four Heroes based on nominations from friends and associates for special recognition. This year’s honorees included:
Robert “Deke” DeCubellis, Colonel, U.S. Air Force (Ret.) Colonel DeCubellis enlisted in the Air Force in 1968 and retired in 2006. Locally, he is known for his service to our community. He served as President of the Murrieta Veterans Foundation which was instrumental in the creation of the Veterans Memorials in Town Square Park.
Colonel DeCubellis served two tours as a security specialist and law enforcement specialist at Hamilton Air Force Base. He was an Air Base Defender and night shift Security Controller at Bien Hoa Air Base Vietnam 1970-1971. While there, he was the Quick Reaction Team machine gunner that helped thwart the August 1970 attempted C-141 Starlifter hi-jacking. Transferring to the Air Force Reserve in 1973, DeCubellis continued to take on more respon-
sibilities. He received a direct commission in 1977 at McClellan Air Force Base and became 4th Air Force Chief of Security Forces. At March Air Reserve Base, he became Commander 604th Regional Support Group, and finally the 4th Air Force Inspector General. He was actively involved in every major conflict, contingency and humanitarian operation from Grenada, Panama, the Loma Prieta San Francisco Earthquake, to the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
In addition to his work with the Murrieta Veterans Memorial Foundation, he is First Vice President of the Vietnam Security Police Association and a former multi-term member of the Murrieta Public Safety and Traffic Commission. He continues to perform docent duties at Murrieta’s Memorials and volunteers at his local church’s food pantry
Alan R. Hulett, Gunnery Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps (Ret.)
Alan Hulett joined the US Marines just 13 days after his 17th birthday in 1978. After boot camp in Parris Island, South Carolina, he entered Basic Combat Engineer school at Camp LeJeune, North Carolina, and served his first enlistment at 7th Eng Support Bn. 1st FSSG, Camp Pendleton, CA. His subsequent duty station assignments, deployments, and world conflicts took him to a wide range of locales including Okinawa, Japan, Korea, Norway, Africa, South America, Haiti, Cuba, Bosnia, and San Diego.
Now living in Temecula, Alan, a service-disabled veteran, started his own company, ARH Universal Corp which serves the Department of Defense and Uniformed Services, First Responders, Federal Agencies and citizens with equipment, logistics services and training. He is also dedicated to giving back, to better the lives of veterans, active-duty, retired, families, and widows of Marine Corps Drill Instructors who fall into emergent need. He currently serves as President of the West Coast Drill Instructor Association, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
Kevin M. Clementi sworn in as a CHP officer
WEST SACRAMENTO – Kevin M. Clementi of Lake Elsinore, Calif., has successfully completed cadet training at the California Highway Patrol (CHP) Academy. He is assigned to duty at the CHP’s Baldwin Park office. Officer Clementi graduated from Lakeside High School in 2012. Prior to attending the CHP Academy, served six years in the United States Airforce as a Senior Operator. At the CHP Academy, cadet training starts with nobility in policing, leadership, professionalism and ethics, and cultural diversity. Training also includes mental illness response and crisis intervention techniques. Cadet instruction covers patrol operations, crash investigation, first aid, and the arrest of suspected violators, including those who drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The cadets also receive training in traffic control, report writing, recovery of stolen vehicles, assisting the motoring public, issuing citations, emergency scene management, and knowledge of various codes including the Vehicle Code, Penal Code, and Health and Safety Code. The mission of the California Highway Patrol is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security. Submitted by California Highway Patrol.
Patricia “Trisha” CeranekSanders, U.S. Navy
Trisha was born in Heidelberg, West Germany, where her father was serving in the U.S. Army. She entered active service in the U.S. Navy in 1985 and entered Radioman Class A School at Naval Training Center, San Diego, following boot camp.
As a Radioman, she was responsible for all forms of telecommunications through various transmission media aboard ships, aircraft and at shore facilities. During her six years of active duty, she spent three years at a Naval Telecommunications Station in Subic Bay, Philippines and three at Naval Telecommunications in Naples, Italy. The Naples assignment included support of forces deployed in Desert Storm.
Today, Trisha is called a “pillar of our school community.” She left active duty to start a family, and has been employed with Murrieta Valley Unified School District where she is currently the Dorothy
McElhinney Middle School bookkeeper and liaison with military students and family who attend the school.
Markiest Sanders, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy (Ret.)
Mark entered Navy service in 1983 and after recruit training in San Diego, he attended Radioman Class A School. He advanced to the rank of Radioman Chief Petty Officer before receiving his commission in 1995. He retired as a Lieutenant Commander in 2008. His last assignment was with Program Executive Office, Command, Control, Communications and Intelligence, San Diego. During this assignment, Lt. Cmdr. Sanders completed individual augmentee tours to Kabul and Khandar, Afghanistan where he was responsible for programming and implementing reform of the Afghan Security Forces. These included the Afghan National Army and Afghan National Police.
Earlier in his Navy career, Mark served on the USS John Rodgers,
deploying to the Mediterranean Sea. He also served aboard the USS Coronado where staff supported two Rim of the Pacific exercises and numerous Third Fleet Battle group workups and training certifications. With his commission, he served aboard the USS Essex where he deployed twice in the North Arabian Gulf in support of Operation Southern Watch and Desert Fox. His last sea assignment was onboard USS Milius as Combat Systems Officer and Electronic Material Officer deploying twice to the North Arabian Gulf and the Western Pacific in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Since retiring, Mark has worked for the Department of Navy as program manager for networks and has served his community as a basketball and football coach for youth sports, including coaching Murrieta Mesa football for six years.
Submitted by Murrieta Rotary Club.
The Murrieta Field of Honor Heroes, recognized at Wednesday’s Veterans Lunch, were (from left) Robert “Deke”
DeCubellis, Alan R Hulett, Patricia “Trisha” Ceranek-Sanders, and Markiest Sanders. Valley News/Courtesy photo
Kevin M. Clementi. Valley News/CHP photo
Soboba Fire and others focus on public safety
Special to Valley News
As part of their ongoing effort to ensure safety in the event of emergencies, the Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians hosted the California State Fire Marshal’s course for Incident Management of High-Rise Fires at its Soboba Casino Resort, Nov. 4-8. The classes, skills instruction and drills allowed more than 50 firefighters the opportunity to learn all the ins and outs of how to respond to high-rise fires. CalFire/Riverside County Fire Department has three of the very few State instructors certified to teach this course.
CalFire’s Scott Lewis, Fire Captain with the Training Bureau, oversees the high-rise fire operating cadre that serve as instructors for the annual event that has been held at Morongo and Pechanga in previous years. He has worked for CalFire for the past 26 years and has spent 23 years in the area of training, joining the Training Bureau two years ago.
While the Soboba Casino Resort hotel is classified as a mid-rise building at six stories, whereas high-rise buildings are typically 10 stories or higher, it offers a typical layout with a lobby, elevators, stairwells, water supply systems, and more.
The weeklong training consisted of a combination of lectures, hands on-training, and ended with two days of full-scale scenarios. The logistics drills put all the lessons into action. There was participation from several fire departments, aside from Soboba. Crews from Morongo, Pechanga, Palm Springs, Cathedral City, Loma Linda, CalFire Riverside, CalFire Santa Clara Unit and CalFire Tuolumne-Calaveras Unit took part in the training. Members of the Orange County Fire Authority were there in a “train the trainer” role so they could take the learned information back to their stations.
Soboba Fire Captain Gabe Herrera said the purpose of Wednesday’s training was to reinforce the knowledge the crews had learned in the lectures Monday and Tuesday. A written test of 50 multiple choice questions was administered that morning, with
all students passing. Herrera said it’s important for all personnel to learn how to fight these types of fires because they are so different from other types.
High-rise incidents are referred to as “low frequency, high risk” and take over 100 firefighters to handle, with the goal of achieving knock down with 30-40 firefighters within 30-40 mins with one hose line. Additionally, Lewis said, “Casinos are very unique; they are not standardized, and every building has its own nuances and ins and outs.” He said it was very helpful for Soboba staff to provide them with the opportunity to have a walk through to prepare for this event, which took about six months to plan and coordinate.
Part of the preparation included assistance from the Moreno Valley College School of Public Education who sponsored the class so all students will receive college credits for their participation. The school assisted with the registration process for all who enrolled.
Fire Captain Scott Mason is a third-generation firefighter who has been with CalFire for 28 years. California has a cooperative agreement, sort of like a super mutual aid, and CalFire controls the movement up and down the state. They are divided into zones/regional groups that can deploy assets north and south, as needed.
Because newer high-rise buildings are modernized and have state-of-the-art detection systems, it was helpful to have Soboba Fire Captain John Hines involved since he spent 22 years with the Long Beach Fire Department where there are many older high-rise buildings that are more susceptible to fires.
Hines helped write some of the standards used in this type of training. After leaving Long Beach, he was happy to have the opportunity to join Soboba Fire. “It’s a different program out here,” he said. “I’ve met a lot of nice people, and I get to train others.” Hines is also a member of the Riverside County Training Officers’ HighRise Cadre.
The importance of having so many different agencies learn how to handle these incidents cannot be minimized. If a working fire
should break out at SCR, there are not enough personnel within their own fire department which employs about 20. Hines said more than 100 would be needed.
“This type of training brings us all together to get on the same page to be prepared when all hands have to be on deck,” Hines said. “It’s tremendous that Soboba is hosting this.”
Lewis, who trains throughout Riverside County, said even with 94 stations within the CalFire Riverside County Fire Department, they could not handle a major incident on their own. “We all train together to learn the same tactics and strategies, so we are all on the same page of music; it’s a team effort,” he said.
He said at least one ladder truck on scene is crucial since they are basically rolling toolboxes with lots of equipment, such as generators, that may be needed. Large fans are always needed to pressurize a stairwell that has heat and flames on the other side of the door that leads into the hallway of the hotel.
“The staff here has been very accommodating, professional and cordial,” Lewis said. “They have bent over backwards to be great
hosts and will be involved in a drill, interacting with our crews so they can actually run an incident.”
Battalion Chief Chad Durrance has been with Pechanga Fire Department for 22 years. He provided support for the walkthroughs that the students took on Wednesday so they could familiarize themselves with the layout and where things were located. When performing simulations on Thursday and Friday, they learned where to find the systems and water supply or how to get the hoses up to the fifth-floor stairwell, if that is the area they were assigned to for the drill.
“Every step of the way, we do evaluations and answer any questions; it helps reinforce everything they learn and helps them be more successful,” Durrance said. Lewis said learning fire behavior is key to any firefighting effort and that interiors with certain finishes and plastic elements can potentially release flammable vapors and harmful gases and chemicals put into the air (off-gassing). He also explained that furnishings and walls absorb heat. “Picture a sponge so saturated with water that one more drop will cause it to release one drop,” he said. “The same thing happens when heat is
absorbed; once full, it will radiate heat back into the room (thermal radiation feedback).”
It is not as simple as aiming a water hose at flames when it comes to gaining control of a fire. There is a lot of math involved. The water pressure in the hose must be adjusted to ensure there will be at least 50 PSI at the nozzle, for instance.
Angel Hendrie has been a firefighter for 29 years, 18 of which have been working for CalFire. She loves her job because “every day is different.” She said, “I have literally climbed trees to rescue cats – you don’t know what you are going to get each day or who you’re going to meet.”
She said the high-rise incident training has been very helpful and has helped her feel more prepared should she be called to assist with such a fire. “It gives me a broader picture,” Hendrie, of San Diego, said. “It’s so easy to do (drills) in the fire station but being here and utilizing a real structure? In that sense, it’s very realistic. I have learned so much. I’m so thankful that the (Soboba) Tribe is allowing us to do this.”
Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians
CalFire’s Scott Lewis, Fire Captain with the Training Bureau, talks with firefighters during a hands-on drill at the Soboba Hotel, Nov. 6. Valley News/Karina R. Espinoza photo
More than 50 firefighters take part in a weeklong training at Soboba Casino Resort that included a written test at the Event Center where two days of lectures were held. Valley News/Karina R. Espinoza photo
Firefighters learn about the water supply system at SCR during skills instruction on Nov. 6.
Firefighters stage at Soboba Hotel’s fifth floor stairwell during a high-rise incident drill on Nov. 8. Valley News/Karina R. Espinoza photo
CalFire’s Angel Hendrie and Soboba Fire Captain John Hines, center, join others to listen to an instructor talk about the reasons behind using high-powered fans in stairwells when responding to a high-rise fire. Valley News/Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians
Valley News/Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians
Ladder trucks, which are considered rolling toolboxes, are staged outside the Soboba Hotel during the high-rise incident training for more than 50 firefighters. Valley News/Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians
NAACP Branch 1034 honors retiring Murrieta Police Chief Tony Conrad
NAACP and MPD continue to build a strong relationship of service together
MURRIETA - The NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People) Branch 1034 met with Chief Tony Conrad and the Murrieta Police Department (MPD) on Oct. 30 for an update on the department and to honor Chief Conrad on his upcoming retirement.
For eight years, the Murrieta Police Department and the NAACP have worked together in service to the community. With regular meetings and coordinated events, they have exemplified building bridges between law enforcement and civil rights.
At the recent meeting, Branch Executive Committee members had the opportunity to ask questions of Chief Conrad and his command staff and to offer suggestions. Some of the issues discussed were racial discrimination in schools and the proactive presence of the MPD School Resource Officers (SROs) who are stationed district-wide. Chief Conrad and the department provided information on the School Resource Officer Academy training. They also emphasized that officers are in the schools to be visible and build relationships; they are not there as enforcers.
Students get to know their school officer as a friendly, supportive presence. SROs are encouraged to become part of the culture of the school, so any student can approach them with
concerns. SROs work closely with the school administration to handle any disturbances.
Another question was whether there are problems with gangs in the Murrieta schools. Chief Conrad clarified that juvenile gangs are not much of an issue in Murrieta.
Lieutenant Jim Gruwell relayed a situation in which a group of students was displaying gang tendencies. The SRO held an event for them and their parents to teach them about gang issues, and the behavior subsided thereafter.
Chief Conrad also shared about the Murrieta/Temecula Regional Gang Task Force where numerous departments are monitoring any gang activity in Southwest Riverside County.
The MPD Citizens Police Academy was also discussed. In its 11th year, the 12-week academy Is “designed to increase public awareness and understanding of the Police Department’s operations.”
Open to any Murrieta citizen over the age of 21 who would like to learn about law enforcement in our city, information about the program can be found at the MPD website: https://www.murrietaca.gov/364/ Citizens-Police-Academy.
A consistent message throughout the meeting is that the Murrieta Police Department wants the community to know they can go to them with any concerns.
Chief Conrad said, “we police Murrieta exactly how they want
to be policed.” The department’s mission is: In partnership with our community, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality police service to enhance community safety, protect life and property and reduce crime.
The NAACP Branch 1034 also answered questions from the MPD about its organization and activities. The branch meets on the 4th Saturday of each month at Grace & Truth Worship Ministry, 31620 Auto Center Drive, Lake Elsinore, where all are welcome to attend. In addition, the organization holds events, supports local students of color with scholarships, participates in community activities and also has a newly reactivated Youth Council.
The branch leadership offered suggestions for police involvement with the Black Community in the schools and the city.
At the meeting, the Branch officers surprised Chief Conrad with a plaque and certificate in appreciation for his friendship in light of his upcoming retirement in December. Captain Matt Henry will assume the duties of Chief of Police when Chief Conrad retires.
Branch President Myles Ross presented the award and stated, “We wish to thank Chief Conrad and the Murrieta Police Department for the positive relationship
San Jacinto and Golden Era Golf Course honor veterans in special ceremonies
Tony Ault Staff Writer
On Veterans Day, Nov. 11, the city of San Jacinto and Golden Era Productions hosted a special event for veterans and their families at the Golden Era Golf Course in San Jacinto.
Virginia Blumenthal, a distinguished attorney named one of the Top 100 Lawyers in the U.S., served as one of the ceremony’s keynote speakers along with Judge Mark Johnson, a veteran and recent author of the book “Scars and Strife.”
The event, held at the golf course, brought the community together to pay tribute to all veterans.
“A truly meaningful ceremony,” said Lester Fountain, Chaplain of the San Jacinto American Legion, attending the special event.
The Master of Ceremonies for the Veterans Day ceremonies was Henry Sawicki, Riverside Sheriff’s Dept, retired. Veterans, first responders, dignitaries, their families and children watched as the event began with an aerobatic flyover by Dave Mundwiler that brought the crowd to their feet cheering. Then came the Sheriff’s Hemet Mounted Posse across the golf course to present the colors. Bagpipes played a rendition of “Scotland the Brave.”
Deacon Virgal Woolfolk from Missouri gave the invocation followed by the San Jacinto Valley Academy High School Choir sing-
ing the national anthem.
The ceremony included a rifle exhibition by the award-winning San Jacinto High School R.O.T.C.
The Hemet High School Jazz Band followed with a medley of military themes from each service organization with many saluting as their branch was recognized with loud applause in appreciation.
“We are incredibly proud to honor our veterans today and every day,” said Mayor Phil Ayala of the City of San Jacinto. “The performances and tributes were a beautiful representation of the dedication, talent, and respect that our community has for the brave men and women who have served.”
Blumenthal gave a thoughtful speech on the long history of military service and shared personal stories of her relatives who served in the Armed Forces. She spoke about what it meant to her, personally, to be part of a family that has dedicated itself to defending freedom.
Judge Johnson followed with an account of what challenges veterans face, not only during their service but also as they return home. Johnson emphasized he was pleased to see so many youths at the ceremony as they are the future.
Mayor Ayala spoke to the oftenoverlooked sacrifices made by the spouses of veterans. He recognized the incredible strength and resilience of military spouses,
many of whom silently endure the hardships that come with having a loved one in service.
In tribute, Ayala honored 11 local veterans and spouses for their unwavering support. These men and women were recognized not only by San Jacinto but also by officials from the California State Assembly and State Senate and other officials, including Hemet Mayor Joe Males; San Jacinto Mayor Pro Tem Valerie Vandever; city council member Crystal Ruiz; representative William Boyd from California State Senator Bough’s office and representative Misael Tovar-Diaz from California State Assemblymember Corey Jackson’s office.
The ceremony concluded with the bagpipe playing Amazing Grace and the playing of Taps while a riderless horse walked across the golf course in their memory.
“It was truly an honor to bring our community together to celebrate the service of our veterans and their families,” Chaplain Fountain said. “The ceremony was a powerful reminder of the sacrifices that go beyond the uniform – the sacrifices made by families, friends, and the loved ones who support our heroes every day.”
The Valley News thanks Golden Era Golf Course Community Events Director Linda Grelich who contributed to this article.
Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com.
with our branch. Chief Conrad was always welcoming, transparent, and responsible to our issues and that of our community. We wish him all the best with his retirement.
We look forward to continuing the positive relationship with Chief Henry and the department and wish him all the best as well.
Chief Conrad closed out the meeting with his thanks to the branch, “Thank you, NAACP Branch 1034, for the partnership we’ve developed over the last eight years! I was honored to be recognized by your organization.
From retired Chief Hadden to myself, we have enjoyed the valuable relationship. I know we have learned a lot from each other as we discuss the best way to police Murrieta. I have no doubt incoming Chief Henry will continue to foster the relationship in 2025. Murrieta PD truly is Partners with our Community!”
The NAACP Branch 1034 invites all community members to join us in building bridges within the community. We are a nonpartisan organization which aims to further understanding and civility in our public discourse. We represent the communities of Lake Elsinore, Murrieta, Temecula, Corona, Norco, Canyon Lake, Wildomar, Menifee and Perris. Please visit our website at https:// www.naacpbranch1034.org. Founded in 1909 by an interracial group of Americans, the NAACP is the nation’s oldest and largest civil rights organization. The mission of the NAACP is to achieve equity, political rights, and social inclusion by advancing policies and practices that expand human and civil rights, eliminate discrimination, and accelerate the well-being, education, and economic security of Black people and all persons of color.
Chief Tony Conrad with Myles Ross, Branch President. Valley News/Ric Stallworth photo From left, Captain Phil Gomez, Captain Matt Henry, Lieutenant Henry Romero, Branch Secretary Rosie Brady, Chief Tony Conrad, Branch Legal Redress Chair and Board Member Emerita Mary Venerable, Lieutenant Jeremy Durrant, Branch President Myles Ross, Branch Veterans Chair Dr. Catina Barnes, Branch Community Advisor Ric Stallworth, Branch Communications, Press & Publicity Chair Jennifer Palo. Valley News/Murrieta Police Department.
Anthony Pshebelski skates a mini ramp during the grand opening of the Long Canyon Creek Park skatepark in Temecula, Nov. 16.
People enjoy the new Long Canyon Creek Park skatepark during a grand opening event with the city of Temecula.
The new modular skatepark is located at Long Canyon Creek Park, 29657 North General Kearney Skatepark in Temecula.
Valley News/Shane Gibson photos
Zack Schwank, Temecula city council member speaks during the grand opening of the Long Canyon Creek Park skatepark in Temecula.
People enjoy the new Long Canyon Creek Park skatepark during a grand opening event with the city of Temecula.
Adam Light, president for the local nonprofit Neighborhood Drop In speaks during the grand opening of the Long Canyon Creek Park skatepark in Temecula. Neighborhood Drop In was instrumental in bringing attention for the need for a new skatepark in Temecula.
Members of the community cut a ribbon for the grand opening of the Long Canyon Creek Skatepark in Temecula.
Find something to do!
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. 22 – 11 to 18-year-olds looking for a fun and safe location for them to spend some time with friends and engage in exciting activities look at the Temecula Teen Zone located at the Ronald J. Parks Community Recreation Center at 30875 Rancho Vista Road. Although there are a variety of great offerings all year round. A line up of those activities this winter can be found at the park.
Nov. 22 – 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 951-654-1505.
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. 22 – 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. Sponsors and vendors available.
Nov. 22 – 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 of reality through layered depictions of escapism and romanticized self-perception.
Nov. 22-24 – 1-7 p.m. “The Nutcracker” held at the Old Town Temecula Theater, 420512 Main St., Old Town Temecula. The ballet is a timeless tale of heroes, villains, and sugar plum fairies, and is an unofficial start to the Christmas Holiday season, presented by Inland Valley Classical Ballet. Showtimes will be 7 p.m. on Nov. 22, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Nov. 23, and 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. on Nov. 24. Prices will range between $35 and $42 per ticket, depending
Crossword Puzzle
Theme: Manias and phobias
on location.Tickets at 866-OLD -TOWN or www.nutcracker.com
Nov. 23 – 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway at the Hemet Public Library, 300 E. Latham Ave,. Hemet partnered with Riverside County Supervisor Yxstian Gutierrez, SBX Youth & Family Services, Black Voices of the Valley, and Volunteers for Public Services, Inc.To ensure that these resources reach those most in need, we ask that attendees register in advance at the Hemet Library. We’re committed to helping families in need by distributing 1,000 turkeys across our community.For any questions or more information call 951-653-0960 or email at Jorge.Zavala@asm.ca.gov
Nov. 23 – 6 p.m.“Share the Harvest” Turkey dinner and fall festival at Murrieta Mesa High School, 24801 Monroe Ave. in Murrieta. The free event is open to everyone in the community. This outreach is held to help the economically challenged individuals and families in our community. Entertainment, games and tours. Thanksgiving boxes. For more information, contact Michael Stowe at 951-677-0568, ext. 6303 or at mstowe@murrieta.k12.ca.us or Karen Parris at 951-696-1600, ext. 1022.
Nov. 23 – 10 a.m. Holt ministries Lake Elsinore/Wildomar Turkey meal giveaway at the Wildomar Elks Lodge, 2591, 33700 Mission Trail, Wildomar, 1,000 families will be provided with a turkey and all the fixings to prepare a Thanksgiving Dinner in the comfort of their homes.
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 Street 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 front desk at 951-672-9673. First responders are welcome throughout the day.
Nov. 29 – 6-9 p.m. Santa’s arrival to Temecula is expected at Pennypickle’s Workshop, 42081 Main Street, Temecula in Old Town for the holiday season. After that Santa will be there Saturdays from 10:00 a.m, to 1 p.m. and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. through Dec. 22. For more information, please visit TemeculaCA. gov/Holidays.
Nov. 30 – 5:30- 7:30 p.m. Chabad of Temecula hosts a Menorah Lighting Ceremony to celebrate the diversity of Southwest Riverside County while observing the Festival of Lights. The event will take place at Central Park, 30268 Civic Plaza Dr.. Menifee . Festivities include games, traditional activities, and the lighting of the Menorah. for all. This event is free to the public and open for all ages.
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. 22 – 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. 30 – 2-6 p.m. The Temecula Holiday Sunset Market begins at 41902 Main St., Temecula Old Town. The Market features a collection of handcrafted and artisan vendors selling holiday-themed items, as well as delicious food and drinks. For more information, visit TemeculaSunsetMarket.com.
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.
The Modern Gentlemen to perform at Pala Casino
PALA – The Modern Gentlemen will be performing Saturday, Nov. 23 at Pala Casino Spa Golf Resort. From their illustrious beginning in the Rock ‘n Roll Hall of Fame band “The Four Seasons” to their evolution as “The Modern Day Keepers of The Classics,” brothers Brian and Brandon Brigham, alongside Landon Beard and Todd Fournier, infuse their harmony on yesterday’s hits, today.
Handpicked by the legendary Frankie Valli, they’ve captivated audiences all over the world with the music icon for over a decade before embarking on their new chapter and carving out a unique place in the music industry.
Individually, they each possess their own distinctive voice and charismatic charm. Together, their harmonies are unparalleled with seamless transitioning between genres and eras that transcend
time. What sets “TMG” apart is their ability to bridge the gap between generations with a genuine camaraderie and music pedigree that features their own artistic prowess.
Their electrifying performances feature an eclectic array of chart topping hits from Motown, The Beach Boys, The Beatles, The Eagles, Queen, The Bee Gees, Billy Joel and more including a special tribute to Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons.
The show will be at the Events Center at 8 p.m. Tickets ranging from $15 to $25 are on sale now at the Pala Box Office, www.palacasino.com and 1-877-WIN-PALA (1-877-946-7252).
Pala Casino Spa Resort is located at 11154 CA-76, Pala, CA 92059.
Submitted by Pala Casino Spa Golf Resort.
ENTERTAINMENT
Free Thanksgiving meals and ready to cook turkeys offered at many area locations Days of giving and sharing for families in need
Tony Ault Staff Writer
Thanksgiving is a time of giving and remembering those who searched for a new life voyaging to America and those who shared their bounties with those in need. This special time remains today with many sharing their Thanksgiving meals with others and helping those who would otherwise have little to share.
Many organizations, service groups and churches are offering Thanksgiving meals to everyone in need on Thanksgiving and the days leading up to it. Listed below are some of those who are offering either free meals at a table or takehome food baskets with turkeys and all the trimmings for a traditional meal.
A free Thanksgiving turkey is being offered to families in need on Nov. 23 in Hemet from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Hemet Public Library, 300 E. Latham Avenue. One thousand turkeys are to be given away, made possible through a partnership between Riverside County Supervisor Yxstian Gutier-
rez, SBX Youth & Family Services, Black Voices of the Valley, and Volunteers for Public Services Inc.
To ensure that these resources reach those most in need, they ask that attendees register in advance at the Hemet Library. For any questions or more information call 951-6530960 or email at Jorge.Zavala@ asm.ca.gov
On the same day Nov. 23 from noon to 6 p.m. a “Share the Harvest” turkey dinner is being offered as part of a fall festival at Murrieta Mesa High School, 24801 Monroe Ave. in Murrieta. This event is free to everyone in the community. This outreach is held to help economically challenged individuals and families in the community with entertainment, games, tours and Thanksgiving boxes. For more information, contact Michael Stowe at 951-677-0568, ext. 6303 or at mstowe@murrieta.k12.ca.us or Karen Parris at 951-696-1600, ext. 1022.
In Lake Elsinore and Wildomar, Holt Ministries and Centerpoint Church will host the turkey meal giveaways at Wildomar Elks Lodge No. 2591, 33700 Mission Trail,
Wildomar, to more than 1,000 families from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Nov. 23. The boxes will include a turkey and all the fixings to prepare a Thanksgiving dinner for more than one in the comfort of their homes. This event is drive-thru only and traffic control will be on hand. For more information, contact Holt Ministries at 909-921-3513.
Then on Thanksgiving day, Nov. 28, free Thanksgiving dinners at Menifee’s Kay Ceniceros Center, 29995 Evans Road, Menifee will be served at two meal times, 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. There is limited space so reservations are required. Call the center’s front desk at 951672-9673 for availability. First responders and law enforcement are welcome throughout the day. Many churches in the Valley will also be serving a turkey dinner with all the trimmings and even some restaurants as well. Check with your local place of worship and area restaurants for any special Thanksgiving dinner offerings on or before Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 28. Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com.
The Modern Gentlemen are brothers Brian and Brandon Brigham, Landon Beard and Todd Fournier. Valley News/Courtesy photo
Valley News/RDNE Stock project photo (pexels.com)
Movie review: ‘Red One’
Bob Garver Contributor
“Red One” desperately wants to be an “edgy” Christmas movie. Edgy Christmas movies throughout history have included everything from raunchy comedies (“Bad Santa,” “The Ref”) to intense action (“Fatman,” “Violent Night”) to straight-up horror (“Black Christmas,” “Silent Night, Deadly Night”). When edgy movies turn Christmas on its head just right, they can become blockbusters and classics like “Home Alone” or “Die Hard.” When they fail, well, they’ll do whatever “Red One” is going to do at the box office because this movie is a big miss.
The heroes of “Red One” are security chief Callum Drift (Dwayne Johnson) and hacker Jack O’Malley (Chris Evans). Callum works for the one and only Santa Claus (J.K. Simmons), and both love delivering presents to the good people of the world. But Cal has become jaded and lost passion for his work. It’s not that he doesn’t love being around Santa and his positive energy, he just thinks that the world has become overrun by people like Jack. Jack is a deadbeat dad, an unscrupulous hacker, and – given that he literally steals candy from a baby in the film’s opening moments – a total sociopath. I know the point is to show that this character needs the redemption that he’ll earn
through the rest of the movie, but after he does that, I wasn’t rooting for him to earn anything besides a prison cell.
Despite Callum’s best efforts, Santa gets kidnapped by evil witch Gryla (Kiernan Shipka). Callum’s boss Harlow (Lucy Liu) learns that Jack did some hacking in relation to the abduction, and orders him brought in for questioning. The civilian gets a peek at the M.O.R.A. (Mythological Oversight and Restoration Authority), which hints at the start of a cinematic universe that I doubt will ever be expanded.
Jack doesn’t know who exactly was paying him, but middleman Ted (Nick Kroll) might. Cal reluctantly escorts Jack to Aruba to follow the lead. The scenes in Aruba last about five minutes, yet I suspect that about $200 million of this film’s reported $250 million cost was spent there. The money sure didn’t go toward making the movie decent, I can assure you of that.
Jack and Cal eventually have to visit Santa’s brother (Kristofer Hivju) for more information. The film builds suspense around the identity of the brother, and I was like, “Krampus, right?” The movie treats the answer like some kind of big reveal, but I was more shocked that Benedict Cumberbatch in “Star Trek Into Darkness” wasn’t playing a guy named Harrison.
Jack and Cal make a pair of
unlikely partners as they race to save Santa by Christmas. There are chases and fights and hustles and one-liners, barely any of which are funny and none of which are exciting. The action scenes are all murky and cheap, and Gryla is one of the most underwhelming villains in recent memory. Somewhere along the way, Jack gets the redemption he needs and Cal learns to see the good he needs to see – which means he’s not watching this movie.
Since “Red One” is all about the season of giving, I’ll give the movie a gift and boost it above a “D” rating. The reason is simple: J.K. Simmons. The Oscar-winner is primarily responsible for the one good scene in the movie, where Santa and Cal debate the necessity of generosity in an increasinglycruel world. And I guess some of the tricks Santa uses to visit houses all over the world are cute – like wormholes, transformation technology, and military escorts (“Red One” refers to the sleigh, by the way). But the movie spends a good 90% of its runtime in “D” territory. The better edgy Christmas movie of 2024 was “Terrifier 3,” and it’ll be a Christmas miracle if that one stays in theaters much longer.
Grade: C-
“Red One” is rated PG-13 for action, some violence, and language. Its running time is 123 minutes.
Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@ nyu.edu
Graun’s Rat Rod given Best of Show at El Cajon car show
SANDWICHES & SALADS
Village Pizza of Bonsall With over 26 years in business, Village Pizza of Bonsall serves fresh, delicious pizza, sandwiches, salads, soups and more. A family-owned restaurant, we use quality ingredients in all of our dishes, including homemade dough and sauce. Brick-oven pizzas, stuffed sandwiches and satisfying pastas keep customers coming back for more. Open Sun-Thurs 11-9 & Fri-Sat 11-10.
5256 S. Mission Road, Suite 832, Bonsall In the River Village Center 760-414-9899 www.villagepizzabonsall.com
Peking Wok
Peking Wok serves a large menu with every order made fresh with quality ingredients. From the grains of rice to the tender vegetables, you’ll be able to see and taste the difference. Come enjoy our uniquely elegant, yet relaxed setting. Open for lunch and dinner Tuesdays-Sundays, closed Mondays. Dine-in or carry out. Because all of our entrees are prepared fresh and made to order, we can easily accommodate special requests and dietary needs.
5256 S. Mission Road, Suite 303, Bonsall In the River Village Center 760-724-8078
www.pekingwokbonsall.com
Start your day right and end it even better at our cozy neighborhood café, serving up delectable breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. With a warm atmosphere and friendly service, our café is the perfect spot to gather with friends or unwind after a long day. Come join us for a delicious dining experience, morning ‘til night! We specialize in catering for all occasions. Contact Tiffany at zbonsall.hr@gmail.com. Open seven days 7am to 9pm.
5256 S. Mission Road, Bonsall In the River Village Center 760-940-1751 www.zbonsall.com
The theme of the September 25 Cajon Classic Cruise car show in El Cajon was Rat Rod Rally. Harry Graun made the trip from his Menifee home for the car show, and his Rat Rod was given the Best of Show honor for the night.
“I left there feeling really, really good about the trophy,” Graun said.
A group called Downtown El Cajon Business Partners has weekly car shows from April through October. “They really do a good job,” Graun said. “They involve the community a lot.”
Winchell’s Donut House
Home of the “Warm ‘n Fresh Donut®” – with more than 70 varieties of donuts and bakery products, Winchell’s offers a diverse menu that includes donuts, cinnamon rolls, muffins, bagels, croissants and sandwiches. We feature top-grade fruit fillings and aromatic spices plus a large beverage selection that includes specially blended coffee, hot & frozen cappuccino, tea and more. Winchell’s promises customers fresh products and personable service from the moment they walk through our doors. 1075 S. Mission Road, Fallbrook 760-451-6219
www.winchells.com Open 24 Hours – Always
This year was the third Graun has brought his Rat Rod to El Cajon but the first in which he has won a trophy. He thus experienced the presentation ceremony in which the host known as Charger Steve involved children as well as announced winners and presented trophies.
“It’s just a really good thing for the community,” Graun said.
A Rat Rod is a custom car which showcases the parts, including non-automotive items which have been transformed into car pieces, rather than the appearance of the car. Graun’s Rat Rod has a 1931 Ford Model A chassis and a 500 cubic inch Cadillac motor. The car was custom built and took Graun about five years to build before it was completed in approximately 2006. Graun calls his Rat Rod “El Cuervo”, which is Spanish for “the crow”.
Graun was raised in Milwaukee and moved from Lake Elsinore to Menifee 32 years ago. Jim Ramsey lives in Fallbrook and is considered the leader of 5150 Rat Rods, which to Ramsey’s knowledge is the only Rat Rod club in Southern California. Ramsey founded the club, and Graun is Member #7 in the club. “Been a good club member,” Ramsey said.
A car show in Perris brought Ramsey and Graun together. “I was up there. He drove in,” Ramsey said. “Got him to join the club.”
Approximately a dozen Rat Rods were showcased September 25. “That was nice he won Best of Show,” Ramsey said. Joe Naiman can be reached at jnaiman@reedermedia.com.
HAWAIIAN SPECIALTIES
CHINESE
DONUTS, COFFEE, SANDWICHES
Valley News/Courtesy photo
Joe Naiman Special to Valley News
[Left] Harry Graun sits in his award-winning Rat Rod.
[Above] Graun’s Rat Rod has the chassis of a 1931 Ford Model A and a 500 cubic inch Cadillac motor.
Valley News/Courtesy photos
Senior veterans share their stories with the next generation
The Veterans Day gathering fostered respect, gratitude and connection between the two generations.
MURRIETA - For David Galey, age 95, Veterans Day stirs up a host of memories. He served in the US Army achieving the rank of Corporal Technician during the Korean War. Galey, a resident
of Vineyard Place, is one of five veterans who shared their stories with local students during a commemorative walk at the community located at 24325 Washington Ave., Murrieta.
Students from Our Lady of Fatima Home School spent the afternoon learning about their sacrifices and bravery. The group enjoyed refreshments after the walk.
“This was a meaningful exchange of gratitude and connection across the generations,” said Chris Balmes, life engagement director for Vineyard Place. “We hope that the students will come away with a new respect for the elders and be in awe of their patriotism, dedication and bravery.”
Vineyard P lace is Anthem Memory Care’s Murrieta residence. Anthem’s core purpose is to protect, engage, and love people living with memory loss and is committed to provide understanding and significance to people with Alzheimer ’s disease and other types of dementia. Learn more at AnthemMemoryCare.com.
New report ranks states on the health of women & children
Dr. Lisa Saul
UnitedHealthcare, National Director, Maternal Child Health United Health Foundation recently released its America’s Health Rankings 2024 Health of Women and Children Report. The report provides a comprehensive look at the health of over 59 million women of reproductive age
and over 72 million children, examining overall health across the nation, including mental, behavioral and physical health outcomes, as well as social drivers of health outcomes.
Many measures have worsened for women in recent years, such as maternal mortality and drug deaths. Meanwhile, two measures of clinical care for pregnant women — low-risk cesarean delivery and adequate prenatal care — have not changed.
There are bright spots in children’s health, including decreases in the teen suicide rate and the prevalence of overweight and obesity among youth. These were offset by the increase in child mortality.
California ranks 14th among 50 U.S. states, but ranked No. 1 in areas such as Climate Policies, Minimal Tobacco Use among Children and Cigarette Smoking among Women. The state also ranks first in Low Maternal Mortality Rates.
Key findings in our state include:
Unemployment dropped 44% among female civilians between 2021 and 2022.
Children in Poverty dropped 12% between 2018 and 2022.
Uninsured Women dropped 10% between 2021 and 2022.
Well-Child Visits dropped 7% between 2019-2020 and 20222023.
Strengths identified in California include:
Low mortality rate among women ages 20-44
High WIC coverage among eligible children ages 0-4
High percentage of infants exclusively breastfed for six months
Challenges facing California:
High prevalence of public school students experiencing homelessness
High prevalence of unemployment among women
Low prevalence of well-child visits
The report also highlights the national need to address health challenges and disparities affecting women and children, particularly
County extends fire protection and EMS contract for San Jacinto
Joe Naiman
Special to Valley News
The County of Riverside’s contract to provide fire protection and emergency medical service to the City of San Jacinto has been renewed.
A 5-0 Riverside County Board of Supervisors vote October 22 approved a new five-year agreement with the city. The agreement is retroactive to July 1 and covers the period through June 30, 2029.
The Riverside County Fire Department has been providing service to the City of San Jacinto since 1984. The most recent contract prior to the new one was approved in June 2021 and had a June 30, 2024, termination date.
The 2021 agreement provided seven staff members at Station 25 on South San Jacinto Avenue and eight staff members at Station 78 on West Cottonwood Avenue. The county contracts with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection for firefighting and paramedic personnel, and CalFire is transitioning to 66-hour workweeks. The new agreement provides nine staff members at each station consisting of six for the medic engines and three fixed relief personnel. The city may request an increase or decrease of employees or services with 120 days written notice to the county; any requests for changes will be evaluated to ensure that the levels of service provided to the commu-
nity are at or above the minimum standard requirements and any concerns will be discussed with the city representative.
The city’s reimbursement will be based on the number of calls for service. The county fire department and the city anticipate 5,572 annual calls for service from Station 25 and 1,663 annual calls from Station 78. The estimated five-year cost of $32,440,311 consists of expected reimbursement of $6,080,475 for Fiscal Year 2024-25 and $6,589,959 for each of the four subsequent fiscal years.
The agreement was approved by the San Jacinto City Council on June 18.
Joe Naiman can be reached at jnaiman@reedermedia.com.
rising maternal mortality rates.
Some of the report’s key national findings include:
Long-term growth in mortality rates: Maternal mortality increased 34% between 2014-2018 and 2018-2022.
Worsening physical health, depression, and drug death rates in women: The prevalence of asthma and obesity both increased in women ages 18-44, by 9% and 8% respectively, from 2019-2020 to 2021-2022. At the same time, depression increased by 11% between 2019-2020 and 20212022. Drug deaths also increased by 38% between 2017-2019 and 2020-2022.
Declining teen suicide rates: The teen suicide rate dropped by 6% in 2020-2022, down from a
2017-2019 peak. But diagnosed mental health conditions increased by 12% between 2020-2021 and 2022-2023, and child mortality rose by 14% between 2017-2019 and 2020-2022.
America’s Health Rankings, produced by the United Health Foundation, is the longest-running state-by-state analysis of the nation’s health, providing important insights into the health of various populations, including older adults, women and children, and veterans. Policymakers, health officials and researchers use these reports to better understand the specific health concerns in their communities.
For more information, go to www.AmericasHealthRankings. org
Students from Our Lady of Fatima joined seniors at Vineyard Place in a walk to celebrate Veterans Day.
Valley News/Courtesy photos
Animal Services nears goal of saving 5,000 more cat lives in 2024
RIVERSIDE COUNTY - The Department of Animal Services set a goal at the beginning of the year – to save 5,000 more felines in its care during 2024. To meet this goal, the department is decreasing humane euthanasia of cats and significantly increasing transfers to rescue partners, paving the way for the department to near the goal of its 5,000 Cat Challenge.
Additionally, the agency is saving more cats through its pet support program, diverting cats into foster homes or providing critical low-cost or free spay and neuter surgeries for community cats.
“As a result of our collective efforts, more than 4,000 cats have been saved, which is approximately 80% of our goal,” said Supervisor Yxstian Gutierrez, Fifth District. “We are urging the public to help us reach this important milestone in the campaign’s final two months. If you can open your home to foster or adopt a cuddly cat, visit us today.”
A key statistic: In 2023 Riverside County humanely eutha-
nized roughly 6,400 felines. So far in 2024, the feline euthanasia number is down significantly. To date, about 1,900 cats have been humanely euthanized – a drop of more than 4,500 cats.
The 5,000 Cat Challenge started after Riverside County Animal Services collaborated with animal welfare experts in January 2024.
Those experts included Jackson Galaxy, Hannah Shaw, Dr. Kate Hurley and Dr. Julie Levy of the universities of UC Davis and Florida, respectively. All four traveled to Riverside County to assist the department’s leaders and created a lifesaving plan for cats and kittens.
Dr. Hurley, of the UC Davis Koret Shelter Medicine Program, and Dr. Levy of the University of Florida’s Maddie’s Shelter Medicine Program, launched the Million Cat Challenge in 2014 as a joint project supported financially by Maddie’s Fund. The goal was to save 1 million cats in five years.
The project saved 3 million cats by January 2021.
Much in the same spirit of the
Million Cat Challenge, Riverside
County Animal Services initiated its 5,000 Cat Challenge with unanimous support from the Riverside County Board of Supervisors.
“We’re elated with our cat saving progress,” said Kim Youngberg, interim director. “It has been fantastic to get so much support from our communities with programs, such as foster, trap neuter and return. The public is much more supportive of these efforts compared to years ago – and this has made all the difference in more cats being saved.”
Historically, felines had been the most at risk of euthanasia in Riverside County shelters, although the county reached high lifesaving numbers in the pre-pandemic years through partnerships and community cat programming. At one point, Animal Services saved approximately 85% of all cats.
During and after the January 2024 gathering, experts met with local community cat advocates and rescue groups, engaging stakeholders in the challenge. Since the
initial meetup, Riverside County Animal Services created a kitten nursery, grew its kitten foster program and expanded spay and neuter support for cats and kittens in the shelters and communities. Riverside County is asking for the community’s help to reach the 5,000 goal. There are currently more than 100 cats and kittens
Real estate head-scratchers: Why some homes won’t sell
Answers for puzzle on page B-2
Joe Naiman Special to Valley News
The Riverside County Board of Supervisors added a roof repair project for the Lakeland Village Community Center to the county’s Capital Improvement Program.
A 5-0 vote Nov. 5 approved adding the roof repair to the county’s capital project list. The action also approved the project in principle, approved a preliminary $501,250 budget, designated project management authority to the director of the county’s Facilities Management department, authorized the county’s Purchasing Agent to execute pre-qualified consultant service agreements of up to $100,000 and to issue purchase orders, and found the repair and
Elizabeth Lentulo Contributor
Is your property starting to gather cobwebs, sitting endlessly on the market? There could be many factors at play—some beyond your control, but others might just need a bit of tweaking. Sometimes, it’s the small, overlooked details that hold back a sale, leaving potential buyers asking, “What’s going on here?”
Let’s explore the common (and sometimes surprising) reasons why some homes won’t sell, and what you can do to break the cycle.
Why some homes won’t sell
They insist on an unrealistic price even though market value is much lower.
The price you want and what the market will pay can be two very different things. If the home is listed at too high a price, buyers will not be interested—and the longer it sits on the market, the more it starts to look like there’s something wrong with it. Setting the right price on the property is very important; it may actually prompt multiple offers, which can drive the price up higher!
They refuse to pack up their clutter and remove personal items
This is one of the first things to do before listing your home. See through the eyes of potential buyers and make them feel like they want to start a new life in your home. Nobody wants a space that is cluttered and filled with other people’s stuff. A home free of clutter sends a certain message to buyers and it makes it easier for buyers to imagine their lifestyle there.
They may have items in the home that could offend buyers
“Start with removing all personal items, and anything political or religious.” says Roh Habibi of Million Dollar Listing San Francisco. For your home to be more pleasing to a wider audience, keep stuff that’s showing any strong opinions or eccentricities out of
available for adoption at its four shelters. Other ways to help include fostering, volunteering, and sharing information with friends and family about the 5,000 Cat Challenge.
Submitted by Riverside County Department of Animal Services.
sight: this includes inappropriate posters, political or religious items or signs among other things. Sellers want to include personal property and overvalue the personal property
Selling the home that you loved and had so many beautiful memories in can be quite emotional. And that makes it harder to make objective decisions when it comes to value. Oftentimes, sellers insist on including personal property in the sale—personal property with sentimental value which far outweighs the book value on the items.
The home isn’t clean
We tidy up when guests and friends come over, right? We want to impress them and make them feel welcome and happy to stay. So much more when you’re selling your home! Make sure that the place has been swept, floors and furniture polished, and the beds are made, among other things. They stay home during the showings
What is supposed to be an informative tour of your home can quickly turn into an awkward contact if the seller is home during the showings. Surely, sellers mean well by pointing out features, but buyers are likely to feel uncomfortable because they cannot explore in their own way at their own pace. Let the agent lead the showing and take care of the rest. Feeling a bit unsure about how t o prepare your home for the market? You’re not alone, especially if it’s your first time selling. At Broadpoint Properties, the agents are here to guide you through every step of getting your home ready and listed, helping to address common reasons why some homes won’t sell. From prepping your space to navigating the sales process, they’ll ensure everything is handled smoothly and efficiently. Connect with our agents here.
The post Real Estate HeadScratchers: Why Some Homes Won’t Sell appeared first on Broadpoint Properties.
restoration of an existing facility categorically exempt from California Environmental Act review. The Lakeland Village Community Center in the 16200 block of Grand Avenue opened in June 2016. The property had previously been Butterfield Elementary School before the Lake Elsinore Unified School District closed the school in 2010, and the county purchased the land from the school district in 2015. The community center includes a multi-purpose room, a performance stage, an arts and crafts room, a dance studio, a children’s activity room, meeting space, and administrative offices. The master plan approved by the county supervisors in June 2019 will phase improvements as funding becomes available and includes playgrounds, other recreational activities, athletic field rehabilitation, upgrades of amenities to Americans with Disabilities Act standards, paving and building upgrades, water quality improvements, pavement removal, and landscaping. The project will overlay the existing single-ply roof with a new single-ply roof system for buildings A, C, and D at the Lakeland Village Community Center. The Facilities Management department will procure the most costeffective project delivery method and award a construction contract in accordance with board policies. Joe Naiman can be reached at jnaiman@reedermedia.com.
Valley News/Courtesy photo
Temecula is now home to U.S. Bank’s first Business Access Hub
TEMECULA - Launched in early November, a Business Access Hub between U.S. Bank and the Entrepreneurial Resource Center (ERC), an extension of the Inland Empire Center for Entrepreneurship at California State University San Bernardino, was established.
Located inside the Temecula Valley Entrepreneur’s Exchange, the hub is designed to cater to the needs of both startups and existing businesses, and offers comprehensive business and workforce development support. Through a diverse array of programs and services, the ERC brings together various entrepreneurial support organizations to provide training, technical assistance and access to resources.
Through this effort, U.S. Bank will have an office at the ERC with Business Access Advisors (BAAs) regularly onsite to serve local business owners and to help them grow and develop their businesses. The BAA services are offered for free, and entrepreneurs don’t have to be a U.S. Bank customer to work with them.
The ERC BAAs are fluent in English, Spanish, Cantonese and Mandarin, and it is anticipated that they will be able to help up to 300 small businesses at the ERC in the first year alone. The Temecula location is also accompanied by a San Bernardino location.
The launch event featured a fast pitch contest entitled Finish Line Finance, in partnership with the Inland Empire Women’s Business Center (IEWBC). IEWBC director Jacqueline Scott was on hand to introduce the final three contestants, including first place winner Sonia Tapia of Sonia Tapia Photography, second place winner Nikishia Garrat of Samson 7Arts and Xiamoro Palma of Solvit HR, who took third.
U.S. Bank is also running a national contest that small businesses can enter until the end of March 2025 called “Small Business, Big Ambition.” By entering the contest, business owners will have a chance to win:
Crosstown Electrical given contract for Grand Avenue and Sangston Drive traffic signal
Joe Naiman Special to Valley News
Crosstown Electrical & Data, Inc., has been given the County of Riverside construction contract to provide a traffic signal at Grand Avenue and Sangston Drive in Lakeland Village.
The Riverside County Board of Supervisors voted 5-0 November 5 to award Crosstown Electrical the contract for the Irwindale company’s bid of $571,789. The action also approved an addendum to the plans and specifications, and a total budget of $873,000 was also approved. The budget expenditures also include past surveying, design, and environmental expenses, a 10% contingency in the construction contract, surveying, and engineering and inspection. Grand Avenue and Sangston Drive are both two-lane roads where they intersect. Sangston Drive ends at Grand Avenue and is currently controlled by a stop sign
while the vehicles on Grand Avenue are not currently required to stop.
The signal construction project will include traffic signal poles with mast arms, safety lighting, traffic signal cabinets, video and radar detection units, advance signal ahead warning signs, new thermoplastic and paint traffic striping, crosswalk and pavement markings, and roadside signs. The work will also construct curb ramps meeting Americans with Disabilities Act standards, asphalt concrete dike, driveway, minor segments of concrete curb and gutter, and sidewalk.
A July 30 Board of Supervisors action authorized the advertisement for bids, approved the plans and specifications for the signal construction, set a bid opening date of August 21, and found the project categorically exempt from California Environmental Quality Act review. During the bid period an addendum was issued to all registered plan holders to clarify and modify the approved contract documents
but did not modify the plans and specifications in a manner which would increase the project costs.
Four companies submitted bids. Three of the bids were below the engineer’s estimate of $604,812.50.
The Crosstown Electrical bid of $571,789.00 was the lowest. Elecnor Belco, which is in Chino, had the second-lowest bid of $599,888.00.
American Rescue Plan Act revenue will pay for the construction cost. The annual ongoing operations and maintenance expense for the signal system is approximately $5,500, and gas tax revenue will fund that.
The construction is expected to begin in March 2025. The work will be phased so that the roads can remain open during construction as much as possible. The signal is expected to be operational by June 2025.
Joe Naiman can be reached at jnaiman@reedermedia.com.
Sonia Tapia of Sonia Tapia Photography, center, won first place in a “Shark Tank” style fast pitch contest
entitled Finish Line Finance at the launch of the new Business Access Hub in Temecula.
Second place at the fast pitch contest went to Nikishia Garrat of Samson 7Arts, center. Valley News/Courtesy photos
Third place at the fast pitch contest went to Xiamoro Palma of Solvit HR, center.
November 22 – 28, 2024
Local prep football teams storm into CIF Southern Section Semifinals
JP Raineri Sports Editor
In a thrilling display of athleticism and skill, the high school football scene in Murrieta has reached fever pitch as three local teams - Vista Murrieta, Murrieta Valley, and Murrieta Mesa - have advanced in their respective CIF Southern Section brackets. Joining them is Temecula’s Great Oak, making for an exciting playoff season for local fans.
Vista Murrieta Broncos charge forward
The Vista Murrieta Broncos delivered an outstanding performance with a resounding 21-0 victory over Cajon in their Division 3 quarterfinals game. This win not only propels them to the semifinals against Edison but also marks head coach Coley Candaele’s 200th career win in his second stint at the helm.
The Broncos’ defense was formidable, intercepting three passes and registering five sacks. Devon Leonard led the charge on the ground with a careerhigh 177 yards on 29 carries, while quarterback Bryson Beaver threw a touchdown pass to Tyler Caldwell and added a 19-yard rushing score himself.
The Broncos, who last appeared in the semifinals in 2015, which was Candaele’s last game before taking time off, will host Edison this week with their sights set on continuing their winning streak. Game time is 7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 22.
Murrieta Valley Nighthawks
Dominate
Murrieta Valley’s Nighthawks soared past Los Alamitos with a commanding 49-28 victory in the Division 2 quarterfinals. Quarterback Bear Bachmeier was instrumental, amassing 255 total yards and accounting for three touchdowns, while the team ran for an impressive 336 yards. Despite Los Alamitos’ Alonzo Esparza throwing for 301 yards, Murrieta Valley’s defense shut down their run game, limiting them to just 82 rushing yards. The Nighthawks now prepare to face Oaks Christian, aiming to maintain their momentum. Game time is 7 p.m. at home on Friday, Nov. 22.
Murrieta Mesa Rams hold their ground
Murrieta Mesa is set to return to the Division 6 semifinals after a gritty 22-13 win over Northwood.
Kicker Alex Krishan was pivotal, scoring four field goals to keep
Murrieta’s 10U Blitzhawks fly high into West Coast Pop Warner semifinals with unbeaten streak
JP
Raineri Sports Editor
MURRIETA – The Murrieta Valley Pop Warner’s 10U Blitzhawks have been flying high this season, capturing the attention of local sports fans, parents, and youth sports enthusiasts with their remarkable performance. With an 11-0 record, they have marched through their schedule with determination and skill, never wavering even as they encountered numerous hurdles.
Three weeks ago, the Blitzhawks faced off against the Oceanside Running Pirates in the WCC Championship. The match was intense, but our local team from Murrieta emerged victorious with a score of 28-20, securing the title of undefeated Quarterfinal D1 10U Champions. Their path to the Pop Warner National Bracket Semi Final has been nothing short of turbulent, yet their spirit has never faltered.
This season’s success has been
see CIF, page C-2 see BLITZHAWKS, page C-5
marked by their ability to overcome adversity. Key injuries tested their depth, yet the team continued to excel. Two weeks ago, they delivered a decisive 14-0 shutout against the Tustin Gold Cobras, even amid the challenges of tight officiating. Their grit and focus propelled them to the semi-finals in Pasadena, where they competed against Charter Oak (Mt. Baldy region) on Saturday, Nov. 16, at John Muir High School. In another feat, the Blitzhawks defeated Charter Oak 21-8, placing them on the brink of the prestigious Super Bowl series in Orlando, Florida. Their roster is packed with raw talent, promising a bright future. They are determined to continue their winning streak, with their eyes set on the next game, which is the Regional Championship on Saturday, Nov. 23, at 12 p.m. in Orange County at San Juan Hills High School. “This team is special and will
A Vista Murrieta TD brings excitement to players on the field.
Valley News/Files Owens Photography
Vista Murrieta head coach Coley Candaele’s picked up his 200th career win with a booming 21-0 victory over Cajon. Valley News/Files Owens Photography
The 10U Murrieta Blitzhawks celebrate a recent victory. Valley News/Courtesy photo
Drago attends San Diego signing ceremony to announce BYU soccer future
Joe Naiman
Special to Valley News
TEMECULA – High school
seniors in certain sports were allowed to sign National Collegiate Athletic Association letters of intent on November 13. The San Diego Sports Association and the CIF San Diego Section hosted a signing ceremony at Snapdragon Stadium that morning, and nearly all of the seniors were from San Diego County. Temecula Valley High School senior Cassidy Drago plays club soccer with the San Diego Surf and joined her club teammates in San Diego that morning when Drago signed to play soccer at Brigham Young University.
“I’m super excited to sign with them,” Drago said. “I hope to be able to come in and be a goal
scorer for them.”
Drago will settle for assists if her teammates score goals, although as a forward taking shots is her responsibility. “I want to come in and make an impact on them. I want to be a player they rely on and move them up in rankings,” she said.
Prior to choosing BYU she was also considering Harvard, Michigan State, Rutgers, Texas A&M, and Cal. Drago selected the Church of Jesus Christ of LatterDay Saints university because of her faith. “I chose it because this is a place where I’m going to feel most comfortable with my faith,” she said.
Her activities in her own ward include playing the piano at the church. She provides community service as part of her LDS activity, and she also founded Temecula Valley High School’s Just Serve Club to promote community service. Drago has performed more than 350 hours of community service during her high school years.
Drago plans to major in physical therapy at BYU and hopes to have a physical therapy career. She is a lifelong Temecula resident who attended French Valley Elementary School and Bella Vista Middle School prior to enrolling in high school.
Editorial
ROGER
Her father, Darren, coaches the Temecula Valley High School boys team and played soccer both for Ramona High School in San Diego County and for San Diego State University. Drago’s mother, Sarah, attended high school in Montana and played basketball and volleyball.
Cassidy Drago is the third of five children. Her brother Malachi played soccer at Temecula Valley High School before graduating in 2020, and he now coaches the Golden Bears junior varsity boys. Her sister Naomi, who is currently at Brigham Young University, is a 2022. Temecula Valley High School graduate who played soccer for the Golden Bears. Cassidy Drago and her sister Liberty, who is currently a sophomore, played together on the 2023-24 high school varsity team. The youngest child, Delaney, is currently 14 and in eighth grade.
At the age of four Cassidy Drago began her organized soccer activity with American Youth Soccer Organization play. She was eight when she began travel
the Rams ahead, especially when penalties threatened their offensive rhythm.
Quarterback Trey Gamble Jr. passed for 316 yards, connecting with Dez’mun Franklin for 123 yards. Despite being flagged 20 times for 206 yards, the Rams’ defense held firm, surrendering just 154 total yards to Northwood.
Murrieta Mesa will travel to St. Francis next week for their Division 6 matchup, looking to build on this hard-fought victory. Game time is 7 pm on Friday, Nov. 22.
Great Oak keeps the momentum going
Temecula’s Great Oak continues their impressive run with a 2717 victory over St. Genevieve, marking their fourth win in five games. The Wolfpack’s offense was unstoppable, racking up 304 rushing yards, their highest since last season. Great Oak is set to face Woodrow Wilson, who boasts five straight road victories. On the road, the Wolfpack will need to harness their recent form to counter Woodrow Wilson’s momentum in this Division 9 clash. Game time is 7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 22.
With all four local teams advancing, it’s an exhilarating time for high school football fans in Murrieta and Temecula. Each team stands on the cusp of greatness as they prepare for their upcoming semifinal battles. Send local sports tips and info to sports@reedermedia.com
club competition with Temecula United.
Drago made the high school varsity team as a freshman. She was a forward for all three high school years, and the Southwest League coaches selected her as an all-league player all three years. As a sophomore she was the league’s offensive most valuable player.
The Golden Bears will be playing their 2024-25 season without Cassidy Drago. She has received no grade lower than an “A” while in high school and will graduate in December. Drago will spend the school year’s second semester at Brigham Young University, and she will join the other Cougars soccer players for spring practice and games.
Joe Naiman can be reached by email at jnaiman@reedermedia. com
AnzA VAlley OUTLOOK
AnzA VAlley
Temecula Valley's Cassidy Drago signs her letter of intent to play college soccer at Brigham Young University. Valley News/Sarah Drago photo
Temecula Valley’s Cassidy Drago in action last season for the Golden Bears. Valley News/Time Stood Still Photography
Trey Gamble Jr. completed 22 of 28 pass attempts for 322 yards and a touchdown in Murrieta Mesa’s 19-10 win. Valley News/David Canales photo
Daniel Ritchie goes over the top to score the lone TD for Murrieta Mesa. Valley News/David Canales photo
CIF from page C-1
Golden Bears’ fierce volleyball run ends in narrow loss to Santa Margarita
JP Raineri Sports Editor
TEMECULA – In an outstanding face-off at the CIF Division I State Girls Volleyball Championship, Temecula Valley’s Golden Bears saw their season conclude with a hard-fought loss against the Santa Margarita Eagles on Thursday night at home. It was a match that kept fans on the edge of their seats as Temecula Valley initially seized the momentum, claiming the first set 25-15. However, the Eagles rallied spectacularly, winning the next three sets 25-19, 25-23, and 25-23 to secure their victory.
The Golden Bears had a commendable playoff run, earning their spot among the elite eight teams in the Southern Section’s Division 1 playoffs. Despite a challenging 0-3 record in pool play, Temecula Valley secured the No. 2 seed in the Division I regional bracket. Their postseason campaign kicked off with a highenergy match against San Diego’s Academy of Our Lady of Peace. Although Academy started strong, taking the first set at 25-21, Temecula Valley dominated the latter stages, clinching the next three sets 25-15, 25-15, and 25-14 to advance.
Key players like Maddy Snow, Brooklyn Pierce, and Stephanie Gonzalez were instrumental in leading Temecula Valley through this decisive win. Pierce recorded
five aces—a career best—and 23 assists, while Gonzalez contributed two aces and an impressive 32 assists. Their victory advanced the Golden Bears to the South bracket quarterfinals, where they met the formidable Santa Margarita. Despite a valiant effort, Temecula Valley’s quest to capture their second CIF State title in seven years fell short. The program last held the championship in 2018, marking a significant milestone in their history.
Meanwhile, Murrieta Valley, another local powerhouse, emerged as the No. 3 seed in the Division I regional bracket following their triumph in the
Southern Section’s Division 2 championship. The Nighthawks, who boasted a season record of 29-7, faced Oaks Christian in their regional opener. The match was a nail-biter, stretching to five sets with Murrieta Valley narrowly missing victory with scores of 26-24, 25-11, 17-25, 16-25, and 16-14. Both teams hail from the competitive Southwestern League, which recently announced its All-Southwestern League teams, highlighting the outstanding talent in the area. Fans can look forward to seeing these names featured in the upcoming issue of the Valley News, celebrating the individuals who have made
Young baseball player visits Cooperstown
Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians
Special to Valley News
While it is the dream of every young baseball player to visit Cooperstown, New York where the Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum is located, Ete’tish Arviso made it a reality. Through his fundraising efforts, the Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians Tribal member was able to join his baseball travel team SoCal Bombers to play against some of the best 12U teams in the country.
He began raising money in November 2023 to ensure his trip could take place from July 2331. Ete’tish, 12, said his favorite parts of the trip were, “Going to the Baseball Hall of Fame, seeing Babe Ruth’s uniform, getting to step foot on the historic Doubleday Field, and going to the memorabilia stores where I got my baseball cards with my dad.”
They got a lot of baseball trading cards and were able to pick out and purchase some rookie cards at the National Baseball Hall of Fame, such as Shohei Ohtani, Trea Turner, Ken Griffey Jr. and Bo Jackson.
The SoCal Bombers, out of Murrieta, were among the 72 teams that played at Cooperstown All Star Village, a world-class baseball tournament and family resort located just outside the birthplace of baseball: Cooperstown, New York. In addition to major league style baseball fields and amenities, it offers luxurious onsite accommodations for the whole family. Having his parents Nathaniel and Melissa Arviso share part of the trip with him was an unexpected surprise for Ete’tish. He said, “When I first headed to New York, I left with one of my teammates and his mom. Two days
before my
I was happy to see them.”
The eight-day trip also included some other sightseeing activities.
“My first day there, I spent sightseeing in New York City with one of my teammates and his parents; I also got to visit the 9/11 memorial site,” he said.
Ete’tish has been playing baseball since he was three years
significant contributions to their teams this season.
The end of the Golden Bears’ and Nighthawks’ playoff journeys marks a bittersweet close to an exhilarating volleyball season.
While both teams prepare to
regroup and aim for future championships, the Southwestern League continues to thrive as a breeding ground for top-tier talent. Send local sports tips and info to sports@reedermedia.com
old, when his father bought him his first glove and would play catch with him outside. “But my love for the game has been since I was a baby; my parents have a picture of me in my baby swing watching the Angels play. My mom tells me when I would cry, she would just put a baseball game on and I would stop crying.”
His all-time favorite baseball see COOPERSTOWN, page C-7
The Temecula Valley Golden Bears battle the Santa Margarita Eagles in the 2024 CIF Div 1 State Girls Volleyball Championship. Valley News/David Canales photo
Maddy Snow and the Golden Bears can’t get past the Eagles of Santa Margarita as they drop their CIF State quarterfinal match 3-1. Valley News/David Canales photo
Savannah Sheridan has to go high over the defense of Santa Margarita to get the point for the Golden Bears. Valley News/David Canales photo
The end to a good season for the Temecula Valley Golden Bears dropping the match 3-1 to the Santa Margarita Eagles. Valley News/David Canales photo
Soboba’s Ete’tish Arviso plays baseball in Cooperstown with his 12U travel team, the SoCal Bombers.
Ete’tish Arviso at the National Baseball Hall of Fame in front of Mike Trout’s uniforms, who is the 12-year-old’s favorite player.
After his very first game in Cooperstown, Ete’tish Arviso is joined by his parents, Melissa and Nate Arviso.
Valley News/Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians photos later,
first game was to start at Cooperstown, my mom and dad showed up to surprise me;
Lake Elsinore area students honored in October
Diane A. Rhodes Special to Valley News
The Lake Elsinore Valley Chamber of Commerce Student of the Month program, honoring students who make a difference in their schools and communities, held its October luncheon celebration at the Lakeside High School Lancer Round Table Café on Oct. 15. Lunch was prepared and served by members of the Lakeside Culinary Academy.
Emcee Kim Joseph Cousins, CEO of the Chamber, welcomed guests to the event. Founded by Sally A. Myers, the nonprofit program acknowledges and honors college or trade school bound seniors for their character, love of learning and commitment to academics, in addition to participation in athletics, school activities and community service. It also commends those who have persevered through challenging life circumstances, all in a setting that honors God, country, family, community and free enterprise.
Large tote bags filled with gifts, certificates of recognition and much more donated by the program’s sponsors were given to the award recipients. Each student received a commemorative medallion and was invited to the podium to share their personal story, past challenges and future goals with a room full of supporters that included principals, teachers, peers and family members, as well as community and school district dignitaries.
October’s students of the month are Elsinore High School’s Cody Fyfe and Sophia Yoshida, Keith McCarthy Academy’s Jason Castellon, Lakeside High School’s Hector Ramirez Gonzalez and Hailey Knudson, Ortega High School’s Dylan Kline and Temescal Canyon High School’s Benjamin Aguilar and Ailanny Nguyen.
Elsinore High School
Cody Fyfe was introduced by Principal Pauline Leavitt as the top photographer in his CTE program who helps with the district’s video productions as well. Cody plans to double major in photography and kinesiology in college. He is on the varsity cross country and track and field teams at Elsinore. “One
of my greatest contributions to my community is capturing moments in time,” Cody said. He helps with promotional photos of district staff, students and administrators and also takes sports photos for athletes and their families. Digital Photography/Video Production teacher Ron Kusayanagi said the reason he nominated Cody was not just for his excellent grades, athletic abilities and outstanding photo skills. “What really made him stand out is something that is far more important – his character, his integrity and his enthusiasm to work with other people,” Kusayanagi said. “His word is his word; when he commits to something he will fulfill it. I can always count on this young man to come through.”
Sophia Yoshida loves education and Principal Leavitt said she has earned enough college credits to start as a sophomore when she begins her college career. She has been involved with the Sports Medicine CTE all four years and is active with Future Farmers of America, dance and photography. She plans to attend the University of California, Davis to major in veterinary neuroscience and agricultural politics. “The most significant life lesson I will carry with me to college is the importance of seizing every opportunity that comes my way,” Sophia said. “I learned to not shy away from new experiences and that decision has led me to participate in 25 speaking competitions at multiple levels, become a servant leader for hundreds of FFA members across Riverside County and grow into a confident public speaker.” She said the lesson is a simple but powerful one. “Opportunities are like sunrises – wait too long and you will miss them,” Sophia said.
Her FFA Advisor Jeff Alves said FFA is a national organization with a mission statement that stresses three key points: premier leadership, personal growth and career success. “And Sophia embodies all three of those points,” he said.
Keith McCarthy Academy
Keith McCarthy Academy singled out Jason Castellon as October’s honoree. Unfortunately, he was unable to attend the recognition ceremony. Principal
Peter Hopping shared that Jason enrolled in the school two years ago. “His positivity and willingness to be engaged in the classroom is infectious in a good way,” he said. “Jason’s reinvigorated drive and focus since coming to KMA has made him a standout student on our campus and he’s constantly modeling what we want for all of our students on a daily basis.”
Hopping said Jason hopes to pursue a degree in the medical field, with the goal of becoming a nurse. Hopping thanked the sponsors for helping to celebrate Jason’s accomplishments at Keith McCarthy Academy this year.
Lakeside High School
Hector Ramirez Gonzalez was described by Principal Jason Eldridge as being currently ranked number one in the senior class. He plans to study mechanical engineering or possibly chemical engineering. He is part of the AVID and Culture clubs on campus and is working on starting a chemistry club. A life lesson he has learned is to not think too much about the future. “It is better to focus on what we have now and to enjoy it since we don’t know if we will have it in the future,” Hector said. The teacher who nominated him, Michelle Henricks, said “He’s a student who bridges all groups of people on campus. He has academic friends, his athletic friends, kids who are interested only in fashion and all of them join in with him. I think it’s because he’s so trustworthy. He’s there to be kind, generous and to support others.”
Hailey Knudson was then introduced by Principal Eldridge, who said her plan is to study nursing with the goal of becoming a nurse practitioner. She is captain of the varsity dance team, treasurer of the ASB program, president of the blood drive committee for the past three years and was selected as a student representative for the Lake Elsinore Unified School District student advisory committee.
“My biggest contribution to my community is trying to build connections between students and activities on campus,” Hailey said. She is an anchorperson for Lancer Life, the school’s YouTube channel. As a member of the varsity cheerleading team, she
helped to host a clinic for children in the community, aged 4-10, to learn a cheer routine and perform it at a Lakeside football game. Hailey enjoys participating in the Renaissance program that helps students feel appreciated. On their birthday, they receive a cupcake and are recognized at lunchtime activities. ASB Leadership teacher Kelsey Weakly, who nominated Hailey, said of the 50-plus clubs on campus, she thinks Hailey is part of about half of them. “As a member of our School Site Council, she advocates for all students here,” Weakly said.
Ortega High School Ortega High School chose to recognize Dylan Kline. Principal Greg Cleave said his school offers an environment that often gives students something different than what they had traditionally at a comprehensive campus. He said Dylan has an “old soul” vibe and they often talk about music quite a bit. Scheduled to graduate in December, Dylan plans to pursue a career in the automotive or electrical industries. He shared that during his freshman and sophomore years he was overweight, which resulted in constant bullying and harassment from his peers. “Adding to that, my parents’ divorce and coming home to an empty house Monday through Friday after a long ninehour day at school became too much to bear,” Dylan said. “I was miserable and at my lowest point in life. With all the odds stacked against me, I made the decision to get up in the morning, make the most out of the day and change the way I was.” He said, “At the end of the say, people can hold your hand and put you on a path to success but when all is said and done, it is entirely up to you to change the way you not only see the past and look at the present but imagine the future.” He shared some lyrics from a song by musician Mike Ness that he said helped him through some dark times, “Life goes by so fast, you only want to do what you think is right, close your eyes and then it’s past; story of my life.”
Temescal Canyon High School Benjamin Aguilar was described by Temescal Canyon Principal Joshua Hill as a member of
the school’s Engineering Academy as well as the varsity water polo and swim teams. He plans to attend Brigham Young University to study Civil Engineering. “The biggest life lesson that I’ve learned is embracing failure and being able to move on,” Benjamin said. “I’ve experienced both minor and major setbacks and all have taught me how I can improve from them.” Titan Engineering & Technology Academy Director Robert Parks said one of the great things about teaching CTE classes is being able to spend multiple years with the same students. “It’s not just one and done,” Parks said, who spends all four years with those enrolled in the Academy. Benjamin’s mother said her son works incredibly hard and while he has had much success at school, she is most impressed with the fact he is always genuinely happy for the successes of friends and others. She said he is always supportive of his teammates and wants to uplift and encourage others whenever possible.
Ailanny Nguyen was introduced by Principal Hill who said she is an International Baccalaureate student, involved with many campus clubs and plays varsity volleyball. She wants to attend UCLA to major in mathematics. Ailanny said she is grateful for the love shown to her in the classroom every day. “My love of teaching and the IB program have inspired me to want to promote that in my future career,” she said. She is a member of California Scholarship Federation, Key Club and the Asian Student Union. “While each focuses on either community service, cultural representation or high academics, they’re all centered around inclusion,” Ailanny said. “During COVID, I struggled heavily with my mental health because school was no longer an outlet for me.” She said getting involved with the IB program was the best thing she did. “Over these four years, our small IB class of 13 students grew from classmates to friends to a family,” Ailanny said.
For more information on the program, please contact Kim Joseph Cousins at 951-245-8848 or Donna Romo at Donnajromo@ aol.com
Recipients of the Lake Elsinore Valley Chamber of Commerce Student of the Month award for October are, standing from left, Dylan Kline, Cody Fyfe, Benjamin Aguiar and Hector Ramirez Gonzalez. Seated from left, Sophia Yoshida, Ailanny Nguyen and Hailey Knudson. Not pictured is Jason Castellon.
Valley News/John P. Hess photo
EDUCATION
Rep. Ken Calvert announces area nominations for U.S. Service Academies
Congressman Ken Calvert from Washington D.C. announced his nominations for the U.S. Service Academies from the 41st Congressional District. As a Member of Congress, Rep. Calvert has the privilege of nominating a select group of highly qualified young men and women from the 41st District for an appointment to one or more U.S. Service Academies – West Point, Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, Coast Guard Academy and Merchant Marine Academy. “I am proud to nominate these outstanding young men and women from the 41st Congressional District for a potential appointment to attend
one of our extraordinary U.S. Service Academies,” Calvert said. “Answering the call to serve our nation is a truly honorable act. These students are extraordinary representatives of our region and, if accepted, will undoubtedly excel at our Service Academies.” Rep. Calvert’s Academy Nominations Selection Committee recently evaluated each candidate from the 41st Congressional District seeking a nomination to the Service Academies. The Service Academies will now evaluate the nominees based on their academic, athletic, and physical qualifications and extend an appointment to the best-qualified students that Rep.
Calvert has nominated. Many of the candidates have outstanding school achievements and have been Students of the Month in the communities of Temecula, Murrieta, Menifee, Hemet and Lake Elsinore. The National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 has made a significant change, increasing the number of nominations that can be submitted per vacancy to 15, up from 10. This change will allow more deserving candidates to be considered for the U.S. Service Academies if vacancies exist and the students choose to attend.
The area candidates who were selected to receive Congressman
Calvert’s nomination are as follows: Air Force Academy: Gianna Almeda, Temescal Canyon High School; Carter McLean, Hemet High School; Vivian Nguyen, Heritage High School; Alessandra Pimentel, Paloma Valley High School; Matthew Woodroof, Murrieta Valley High School; and Morgyn Young, Liberty High School.
United States Naval Academy: Nathanael Burns, Murrieta Mesa High School (Class of 2024), Northwestern Preparatory School; Moses Garingo, Liberty High School; Evan Jackson, Paloma Valley High School; Alexander Krishan, Vista Murrieta High School; Jera Likins, Santa Rosa Academy; Ryan Ly, Vista Murrieta High School; Rihanna TomlinsonGraham, Temecula Valley High School; and Nicholas Welty, Santa Rosa Academy. Military Academy at West Point : Kaydence Erickson, Rancho Christian High School; Zachary Nilsen, Vista Murrieta High School; and Addison Rodriguez, Linfield Christian School.
Merchant Marine Academy: Kaydence Erickson, Rancho Christian High School; Alexander Krishan, Vista Murrieta High School; and Jera Likins, Santa Rosa Academy.
Mt. San Jacinto Community College District allocated $2,500,000 of ARPA funding for CTE program
Joe Naiman Special to Valley News
Funding from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 was allocated to state, territorial, Tribal, and local governments but not to school districts including community college districts.
Allocation of that funding must meet ARPA requirements but does not need to be used by the local government agency itself, and that agency may allocate ARPA funding to special districts or school districts. A 5-0 Riverside County Board of Supervisors
vote Nov. 5 allocated $2,500,000 of ARPA funding to the Mount San Jacinto Community College District for the district’s Career Technical Education program.
The supervisors approved the obligation of the funding and also approved the Career Technical Education (CTE) Program Services Agreement between the county and the community college district. The funding will support the college’s digital media, nursing, medical lab technician/ medical assisting, diagnostic medical sonography, radiology technologist, psychiatric
technician/certified nursing assistant, and emergency medical technician/paramedic career and technical education curriculum.
Mount San Jacinto College has campuses on State Street in San Jacinto, La Piedra Road in Menifee, Motor Car Parkway in Temecula, and Westward Avenue in Banning. More than 26,000 students attend a Mount San Jacinto College campus.
Under the agreement the county’s Housing and Workforce Solutions/Workforce Development Division and the community college district will
partner to implement the CTE programs throughout the region.
The county division and the college district will work to expand partnerships with K-12 or high school districts to create an articulated curriculum which meets the state’s high school graduation requirements and qualifies for college credits which can be applied towards an associate’s or bachelor’s degree.
The county agency will also facilitate employer connections to CTE participants. The two entities will combine outreach and marketing efforts for the CTE
program throughout the region and increase understanding of the CTE resources for employers, educators, and residents.
The $2,500,000 will cover $1,315,000 for program and equipment costs, $500,000 for student support, $277,000 for licensing and curriculum fees, $198,000 for faculty and consulting, $170,000 for administrative costs, and $40,000 for marketing. Joe Naiman can be reached at jnaiman@reedermedia.com
County supervisors allocate $5,586,515 of ARPA funding for CSUSM Temecula campus
Joe Naiman Special to Valley News
California State University San Marcos has a Temecula campus which has locations on Margarita Road and Motor Car Parkway, and that portion of the university will be receiving $5,586,515 of American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 funding.
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 County of Riverside received approximately $479 million in ARPA funding, although allocation of that funding must only meet ARPA requirements and does not need to be used by the county itself. The Riverside County Board of Supervisors has allocated ARPA funding to special districts, and on November 5 the county supervisors voted 5-0 to approve the funding agreement between the county
and the California State University San Marcos Corporation to fund higher education improvements at the Temecula campus. The ARPA funding addresses the public health emergency and economic impacts of the coronavirus epidemic and originally could be utilized for four eligible categories: mitigation of negative economic impacts, premium pay for eligible workers performing essential work, provision of government services lost revenue would have eliminated, and necessary infrastructure investments including water, sewer, and broadband. Revised guidelines allowed funding to be allocated to seven eligible categories: infrastructure, housing and homelessness, economic recovery, county departments response, non-profit assistance, child care, and revenue backfill.
All ARPA funds must be obligated by December 31, 2024, and spent by December 31, 2026. CSUSM Corporation will oversee
Register your teen for holiday fun at the Temecula Teen Zone this season
TEMECULA ─ Do you have an 11 to 18-year-old and are looking for a fun and safe location for them to spend some time with friends and engage in exciting activities? Look no further than the Temecula Teen Zone located at the Ronald J. Parks Community Recreation Center at 30875 Rancho Vista Road. Although there are a variety of great offerings all year round, we are excited to announce our special Holiday line-up of activities for November and December 2024.
November 2024 Special Activities
NOV 25 – Pumpkin Cookies
NOV 26 – Teen Trips: Pins n’ Pockets*
December 2024 Special Activities
DEC 2 – Rudolph Brownies
DEC 3 – Ornament Craft
DEC 4 – Bigfoot Graphics
Anime Day*
DEC 6 – Gingerbread Men
Cookies
DEC 9 – Balloon Stomp Battle Royale
DEC 10 – Dala Horse
DEC 11 – Rudolph Brownies
DEC 12 – Christmas Crossword
Puzzle
DEC 13 – Present Game DEC 16 – Cake Pops
DEC 18 – Polar Express PJ Day DEC 19 – Peppermint Bark Brownies
DEC 20 – Christmas Games
DEC 23 – Sugar Cookie Fruit Tart
DEC 27 – S’mores
DEC 30 – Teen Trips: Ice Skating in Old Town Temecula*
*These activities require additional registration. Visit TemeculaCA.gov/Register to sign up.
Regular hours are from 3-6 p.m. Wednesday hours are 2-6 p.m. and Saturday hours are 12-6 p.m. Homeschool Fridays go from 12-6 p.m. Thanksgiving and winter break hours are from 2-6 p.m. The library will be closed on Nov. 28 and 29, and Dec. 24, 25, and 31.
Teen Zone Membership is required to participate in any of these activities. To register for the $1 annual membership, and for more information on these programs and the Teen Zone Schedule, please visit TemeculaCA.gov/TeenZone For updates and information on all Temecula Community Services Department events, activities, and programs, please follow us on Instagram at @ TemeculaParksAndRec.
and/or administer and maintain the projects the ARPA funding will create. The funding will be used for the CSUSM nursing, software engineering, business management, education, public health, and human development programs. Those programs are intended to remediate current shortages of qualified and willing workers in those professions.
The CSUSM nursing programs have an accelerated format which prepares students to enter the nursing profession after only five semesters. The CSUSM Temecula campus and Mount San Jacinto College partner on an associate degree program for
BLITZHAWKS from page C-1
be for many years,” exclaims Coach Matt Nunez. “Their success is impressive and something a Murrieta Pop Warner team has never accomplished. Back-to-back West Coast Champions and soon to be back-to-back Wescon Regional Champions.”
The winner of this game goes to Orlando, Florida for the Pop Warner Super Bowl. A victory in the upcoming Regional Championship will secure their place in the Super Bowl series, giving them the repeat chance to represent Murrieta Valley Pop Warner and the City of Murrieta on a national stage.
As they prepare for their next challenge, they are focused on the ultimate goal—winning the championship in Florida. With a target on their back as defending champions, they step onto the field with confidence.
This season the team has lived by the saying “unfinished business”.
“Our goal is not just to make
Super Bowl journey, the team has set up a Venmo page for donations. Scan the QR code for more information.
early childhood education, and the ARPA funding will assist the CSUSM Early Childhood Teacher Education program in developing the appropriate classroom facilities including equipment needed for a learning laboratory. The university will expand Public Health and Human Development course offerings to help meet mental health profession personnel needs in the region. The university, Mount San Jacinto College, and local high schools partner to provide a bachelor’s degree in software engineering which can be completed within three years of finishing high school, and the ARPA allocation
will provide the resources to facilitate the program’s initial launch by providing information and technology support along with classroom equipment to create the appropriate instructional setting for students to achieve their goals. The funding will help expand the university’s Bachelor of Science in Business Administration program whose nine study emphases are accounting, business analytics, entrepreneurship, finance, global business, global supply chain management, management information systems, management, and marketing. Joe Naiman can be reached at jnaiman@reedermedia.com
it to Florida for the Nationals but to be your 10U National Champions,” says Nunez. “We need the support of the community and any financial support from businesses or individuals who are able to contribute would be greatly appreciated.”
The players and their families now face financial hurdles as they prepare for the potential trip to Florida, seeking community
rallying the backing of devoted parents and the wider community. Join in their journey and cheer them on as they aim to bring glory to their community. 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
support to make their dreams a reality. The team has set up a Venmo page for donations (see
photo),
After taking the handoff, Gianni Quaranta (40), evades a few Charter Oak defenders on his way up field.
For those interested in supporting the Blitzhawks’
Jaxon Dyer (9) fires up his teammates prior to their game against Charter Oak (Mt. Baldy).
REGIONAL NEWS
Highway Update
Lighted overhead traffic signs on freeways to improve with ATTAIN program grant
Tony
Ault Staff Writer
Car and truck drivers on our local freeways often see overhead lighted traffic signs telling them how long it might take to travel to their destination or to be aware of current weather conditions in addition to other warnings or information.
The California Department of Transportation now will be working to better improve those message signs and other means to aid drivers in the hopes of improving safety and reducing travel times on those freeways that are constantly seeing more traffic congestion..
That 2023 Advanced Transportation Technology and Innovation (ATTAIN) program will now be improved thanks to a $5.6 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation to provide real-time, critical information to drivers by connecting vehicles and roadside equipment with cellular networks.
“Caltrans is poised to lead the future of transportation by pioneering intelligent, technologydriven solutions that make our roads safer and reduce travel times,” said Caltrans Director Tony Tavares. “Real-time information provided through electronic highway message signs and other means will give drivers the heads-up they need to avoid congestion and have more reliable commutes.”
This funding will build upon Caltrans’ efforts to advance connected vehicle (CV) technology’s safety features, data accuracy, and communication.
Objectives of the project include expanding the accuracy and reach of real-time information messages to drivers; assuring compatibility of various CV hardware and applications; deployment of video analytics at intersections to support pedestrian and cyclist safety; and supporting multiple CV technologies and communications media such as 5G and satellite to ensure all road users benefit.
For more information about California’s transportation investments, visit RebuildingCA. ca.gov and build.ca.gov.
Menifee/Murrieta
Caltrans crews on I-215 in Menifee, Sun City and Murrieta will be working on the freeway shoulders during the day until 4 p.m. with some shoulders closed. Work is winding down at the Scott Road Loop Off-Ramp. Nighttime work is scheduled between 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 I-215.
The project will include improving the road surface, updating 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.
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 may still 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 be maintained, with shoulder closures and lane reductions in effect. Watch for signage alerting motorists of the construction zone. Drivers should anticipate traffic delays and plan accordingly
Hemet
Caltrans work continues on Florida Ave. (SR-74) from Winchester Road to Fairview Avenue. Work includes curb ramp, sidewalk construction, paving and micro trenching. The construction will continue at various locations throughout the project limits. Motorists should be alert for the concrete pours both day and night and one lane reductions in those areas. This work may also require
driveway closures.
Other work includes electrical and pothole repairs. Caltrans wants to remind motorists and pedestrians when working on driveways that may have more than one access point, will require closing and directing traffic to other accessible entry points. This is to keep entry access open at all times. Watch for detour signs! Paving operations may obstruct access points along Florida Ave. during the working window.
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. Always reduce speeds near the work zones and the speed limits will be reduced by 10 mph throughout the construction zone.
This extensive construction is not expected to end until next year.
Perris
Caltrans is informing the public that construction contractors will soon begin a $27.5 million project in Riverside County. This Roadway Improvement Project, funded by Senate Bill (SB) 1—the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017—aims to refurbish the existing roads with new pavement, enhance safety, and improve accessibility on the well-traveled thoroughfare in Riverside County.
Crews will work along both northbound and southbound
Interstate 215 between the San Jacinto River Bridge and Ramona Expressway in the city of Perris.
The work is scheduled to take place until Friday, November 22. Daytime work will occur from 6:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
This week, daytime work will include shoulder closures at various locations along both the northbound and southbound I-215, including the interchanges at Nuevo Road., Ramona Expressway, and D Street. Ramp work will be underway at Nuevo Road., and electrical work will also take place at both Nuevo Road and Redlands Ave. operate in flashing mode from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Commuter access will remain open. Drivers should remain attentive to signs notifying them of the construction zone. The work will involve rehabilitating the pavement and upgrading facilities to comply with Americans with Disabilities Act standards. It will also include upgrading the guardrail and enhancing highway worker safety, as well as installing slope stabilization and erosion control measures. Commuter access will be maintained through the duration of the project. Drivers should anticipate traffic delays and plan-ahead.
Caltrans reports no work is scheduled in Aguanga, Aguanga, State Routes 371, 79, 60, and Interstate 15. Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com
Swearing-in ceremony marks milestone as the CHP surpasses 1,000 new officers
SACRAMENTO – The California Highway Patrol (CHP) announces a major achievement in its ongoing recruitment efforts as it officially swears in 121 new officers, bringing the Department past its goal of hiring over 1,000 officers. This milestone underscores the CHP’s commitment to enhancing public safety and strengthening its presence within communities across the state.
The swearing-in ceremony at the CHP Academy in West Sacramento marks the culmination of months of rigorous training for these new officers. Each will report for duty to one of the CHP’s 102 Area offices throughout the state. This is the largest graduating class since June 2022, when 128 officers were sworn in.
“Two years ago, we set an ambitious goal of recruiting 1,000 new CHP officers – and today, with this class, we have officially surpassed that goal. But I want
Recently, 121 California
swearing-in of the 1,000th officer since the “Join the CHP 1,000” recruitment
to be clear: that goal has always been about more than just filling slots or hitting a number. Each officer is the very manifestation of public service, of peacekeeping. Every cadet graduating today felt a calling to do right by their
community and to make the world safer. On behalf of the state and all who call California home, I want to thank each and every member of this graduating class,” said Governor Gavin Newsom.
“Today marks a significant step forward for our agency and all of our communities,” said CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee.
“By surpassing our recruitment goal, we’re adding highly-trained, committed officers who are ready to make a positive impact and meet the evolving needs of California. We’re grateful for the dedication and passion these officers bring to their new roles.”
The CHP started its successful multi-year recruitment campaign in June 2022. With over 21,000 applications submitted in the first 10 months of 2024, the CHP has already surpassed last year’s
application total of more than 16,300 over the same period, representing a 29% increase. To accommodate this increase, the CHP conducts three concurrent cadet classes at its live-in training facility, where more than 250 cadets are currently in training. A new class of 160 cadets will arrive at the CHP Academy on December 1. Training at the CHP Academy is comprehensive, beginning with a foundation of nobility in policing, leadership, ethics, and cultural diversity. Cadets also receive specialized instruction in responding to mental health crises, vehicle patrol, crash investigation, first aid, and impaired driver evaluation. Additional training covers traffic control, report writing, stolen vehicle recovery, assisting motorists, emergency
scene management, and mastery of the California Vehicle, Penal, and Health and Safety Codes.
The CHP is continuing its recruitment efforts. Join us in shaping the future of public safety in California. For more information about a lifechanging career with the CHP, visit https://chpmadeformore. com/#become-officer or attend the virtual hiring seminar on November 26. More information at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ california-highway-patrolvirtual-hiring-seminar-tickets1049166995727?aff=oddtdtcre ator.
The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.
Submitted by California Highway Patrol.
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Funeral arrangements are a difficult topic to discuss, especially when the funeral will be your own. But having these conversation will make it easier for your survivors. We offer the most options and best value in the preplanning market, plus easy funding plans to meet your individual needs. Call for information today and receive our free Personal Arrangement Guide.
Highway Patrol (CHP) Officers were sworn in November at the CHP Academy in West Sacramento. This graduation featured the
campaign began in June 2022.
Valley News/CHP photos
Putin signs new doctrine lowering threshold for Russia using nuclear weapons
President Vladimir Putin has said the revised doctrine might allow Russia to use nuclear weapons in the case of an attack using NATO missiles
Chris Summers
The Epoch Times
Russia’s President Vladimir Putin has signed a new doctrine lowering the threshold for using nuclear weapons, his spokesperson said on Monday, Nov. 18.
The doctrine now states that an attack on Russia by any nation using conventional missiles supplied by a nuclear power will be considered a joint attack.
The announcement, made via the Tass news agency, follows the Kremlin’s angry reaction to reports President Joe Biden had given permission for Ukraine to fire U.S.- and NATO-supplied missiles deep into Russian territory.
According to anonymous U.S. officials who spoke to media outlets, Biden has authorized Ukraine to use long-range missiles provided by the Pentagon to strike targets in the Russian region of Kursk.
Former Russian president and prime minister, Dmitry Medvedev, a close ally of Putin, wrote on X:
“Russia’s new nuclear doctrine means NATO missiles fired against our country could be deemed an attack by the bloc on Russia. Russia could retaliate with WMD against Kiev and key NATO facilities, wherever they’re located. That means World War III.”
On Monday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the Biden administration was “adding fuel to the fire.”
Peskov told the Tass news agency, “If such a decision has indeed been formulated and communicated to the Kyiv regime, then, of course, this is a qualitatively new round of escalation of tensions, and a qualitatively new situation in terms of the involvement of the United States in this conflict.”
Asked on Tuesday if the timing of the signing of the updated doctrine was significant, Peskov said it was published, “in a timely manner” and is, “in line with the current situation.”
1,000 days of war
Putin’s decision to sign the new
doctrine comes exactly 1,000 days after he sent troops into Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022.
U.S. President-Elect Donald Trump has promised to end the war in Ukraine but his inauguration is not until Jan. 20, leaving the danger of a nuclear disaster in the next two months.
On Sept. 25, Russian President Vladimir Putin warned of the consequences of the United States and its NATO allies allowing Ukraine to use longer-range weapons for strikes deep inside Russia.
He said it would put Russia at war with NATO.
The deliberate ambiguity of the nuclear doctrine is designed to deter NATO from permitting Ukraine to use such weapons, something Zelenskyy has been pressing for.
Russia’s previous nuclear doctrine, confirmed by Putin in 2020, states Moscow may use nuclear weapons in the event of a nuclear attack by an enemy or in
response to a conventional attack that poses an existential threat to the Russian state.
As researcher Nikita Degtyarev outlined in an article for the Open Nuclear Network on Oct. 29, the doctrine has changed several times since the collapse of the Soviet Union.
Earlier this month Pavel
Podvig, a senior researcher at the U.N. Institute for Disarmament Research in Geneva, said the doctrine originally stated nuclear weapons could be used in the event of “large-scale aggression with conventional weapons in situations critical to Russia’s national security.”
This was changed to “in the event of aggression with conventional weapons when the state’s very existence is in jeopardy.”
Podvig told The Epoch Times he did not believe Moscow would change the disclaimer about “the state’s very existence” being in jeopardy.
Doctrine designed to be ‘vague’
But he said the doctrine itself was designed to be “vague” and ambiguous so the other side could not second-guess Russia’s moves.
Sam Faddis, a former CIA officer and senior fellow at the Center for Security Policy, wrote on his Substack on Oct. 31 that “we are dancing along the edge of the abyss.”
“Putin is practicing for the end of the world. Don’t assume he’s just bluffing,” he added.
Tim Ripley, a military analyst and editor of the Defence Eye website, previously told the Epoch Times that Russia’s leadership would use nuclear weapons only if they were desperate.
Associated Press contributed to this report.
Reprinted with permission from the Epoch Times, copyright 2024. To subscribe to the Epoch Times, go to subscribe.theepochtimes. com.
Ukraine has fired first US-made ATACMS missiles inside Russia, says Kremlin
The Russian Ministry of Defense said that 6 U.S.-made long-range ATACMS missiles had struck in the Bryansk border region
Owen Evans
The Epoch Times
Ukraine has conducted its first strikes inside Russian territory with U.S.-made long-range ATACMS missiles, according to Russia’s Ministry of Defense.
On Telegram, Russia’s Ministry of Defense posted that on Nov. 19 at 03:25, the “enemy launched strikes by six ballistic missiles targeting a facility in Bryansk region.”
It said that according to confirmed data,“U.S.-made ATACMS operational-tactical missiles have been used.”
Missiles
It added that as a result of an anti-missile operation, “S-400 and Pantsir SAM systems shot down five missiles and damaged one.”
“Its fragments hit the technical territory of the military facility in Bryansk region, causing a fire that was quickly eliminated,” according to the ministry.
Russia said that there were no casualties or damage.
Reuters reported that Kyiv said on Tuesday it struck a Russian arsenal near the town of Karachev in the Bryansk region, over 110 km (70 miles) from Ukraine.
There was no official confirmation from Ukraine about what weapon was used.
According to anonymous U.S. officials who spoke to media outlets, President Joe Biden has authorized Ukraine to use longrange missiles provided by the Pentagon to strike targets in the Russian region of Kursk.
Ukraine had long been seeking permission to use long-range weapons inside Russian territories, but Biden had remained opposed.
Previously, Biden said he felt allowing U.S. missiles to be used on Russian territories could draw the United States and other NATO members into direct conflict with nuclear-armed Russia.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that if NATO allies allow Ukraine to strike inside Russian territory, it would be considered direct involvement
from page C-3
The young athlete was pleased to have the support of family members who provided opportunities for him to raise the necessary funds for his trip. “I was able to have a couple of food sales for fundraising,
in the war, and that Moscow could provide long-range weapons to others to strike Western targets.
In his first comments following the missile launch, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized the need to intensify pressure on Russia. Speaking to participants of an extraordinary session of the European Parliament marking the 1,000th day of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Zelensky said, “Every ’today’ is the best moment to push Russia harder.”
“It is clear that without certain key factors, Russia will lack real motivation to engage in meaningful negotiations: without fires in its ammunition depots on Russian territory, without disrupted military logistics, without destroyed Russian air bases, without its capabilities to produce missiles and drones being eliminated, and without its assets being confiscated,” said Zelensky.
Nuclear weapons
On Nov. 18 Russia’s President Vladimir Putin signed a new doctrine lowering the threshold
for using nuclear weapons, his spokesperson said on Monday, Nov. 18.
The doctrine now states that an attack on Russia by any nation using conventional missiles supplied by a nuclear power will be considered a joint attack.
The announcement, made via the Tass news agency, follows the Kremlin’s angry reaction to reports President Joe Biden had given permission for Ukraine to fire U.S.- and NATO-supplied missiles deep into Russian territory.
Putin’s decision to sign the new doctrine comes exactly 1,000 days after he sent troops into Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022.
World War III
Former Russian president and prime minister, Dmitry Medvedev, a close ally of Putin, wrote on X: “Russia’s new nuclear doctrine means NATO missiles fired against our country could be deemed an attack by the bloc on Russia. Russia could retaliate with WMD against Kiev and key
NATO facilities, wherever they’re located. That means World War III.”
Sam Faddis, a former CIA officer and senior fellow at the Center for Security Policy, wrote on his Substack on Oct. 31 that “we are dancing along the edge of the abyss.”
“Putin is practicing for the end of the world. Don’t assume he’s just bluffing,” he added.
Tim Ripley, a military analyst and editor of the Defence Eye website, previously told the Epoch Times that Russia’s leadership would use nuclear weapons only if they were desperate.
This is a developing story, updates will follow.
Reuters and Chris Summers contributed to this report.
Reprinted with permission from the Epoch Times, copyright 2024. To subscribe to the Epoch Times, go to subscribe.theepochtimes. com.
Ete’tish Arviso fields a play as shortstop during the SoCal Bombers tournament play in Cooperstown in July.
as well as donations from my Tribe, my aunties Adela Kolb and Mia Gonzalez, my cousin Melissa, Mrs. Yvonne Silvas and my Grandma Frances Basquez. Tara Placencia, Tatiana Diaz and my mom hosted a snack bar at a tournament for the first food fundraiser and my second food fundraiser, which was an Indian Taco sale, was done by Frybread kitchen (Antonia Briones and Aurelia Mendoza) who donated their time as well as food to help
me. I am forever grateful for them wanting to make my trip possible.” He said since returning home he has only been able to talk with a couple of the people who helped him raise the funds. “My baseball schedule has me so busy I haven’t really had the time to sit and visit with the others, but I did think of them on my trip and got them souvenirs from where I played at,” Ete’tish said. “In December, I get a small break from baseball, so I plan on seeing them to give
them their gifts and just thank them again for believing in me and how much they helped me live this dream out.”
One of his older cousins, Kris Arrietta who also plays for the same travel ball organization, went to Cooperstown when he was 12. Both describe the trip as a once-ina-lifetime experience.
For more information, visit https://baseballhall.org.
players are Mike Trout #27 from the Angels and Jackie Robinson. He was able to see Trout’s uniform in person at the Hall of Fame Museum.
COOPERSTOWN
Ete’tish Arviso with two of his coaches, Rene Escobar and Scott Reed, at the 12U baseball tournament held in Cooperstown.
Valley News/Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians photos
The Heart Christian Women’s Ministries’ Christi
Surrounded by the ladies of From the Heart Christian Women’s Ministries, Christi James announces that the organization will be retiring after their Christmas event in December, at their annual Holiday Dinner Saturday, Nov. 9. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo
Diane Sieker Staff Writer
Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photos
Linda Hart in memory of her son in 2004, and quickly turned into a group dedicated to serving the needs of the community.
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
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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.
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
Anza Thimble Club’s Thanksgiving meeting welcomes new members
Diane Sieker Staff Writer
The November Thanksgiving meeting of the Anza Thimble Club featured traditional holiday fare as members of the oldest charitable organization in Anza warmly welcomed newcomers to the club Thursday, Nov. 7 at the Anza Community Hall.
The ladies presented their customary meeting - sharing updates and history - while taking part in a potluck feast that combined the culinary talents of some of Anza’s best cooks.
Turkey, pies, desserts, salads, mashed potatoes with gravy, dressing, casseroles and more were served. Annie Ashby provided the prepared turkey, while other members completed the menu.
Many new faces were welcomed as they applied for membership in the club.
Door and raffle prizes were called and won and a 50/50 raffle was held. Cheers erupted as winners were announced.
The meeting adjourned with the singing of the Anza Thimble Club song.
The Anza Thimble Club, established in 1912, is the oldest service club in Anza. 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. Today, they sew special lap blankets for veterans, sponsor coat drives, assist with community events and raise money for various activities to benefit the people of Anza.
They have become a wellloved and respected charitable organization donating muchneeded funds back into the community.
For more information on the Anza Thimble Club, please email Annie Ashby at annieandjima@ yahoo.com
Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia. com
ANZA – Badrea Maadarani was recently named the Postmaster of the Anza Post Office.
In that position, Maadarani manages six employees and oversees retail services at the Anza Post Office and the daily distribution of mail to more than 2,000 Post Office Boxes and on two delivery routes in Anza.
She replaces former Anza Postmaster Vincent Newell, who relocated to another state.
Maadarani is a 14-year postal employee who began her career as a clerk and most recently served as a supervisor at the Rancho Cordova Post Office.
“I’m honored and excited to have been selected for this position,” said Maadarani. “I hope to further the Postal Service’s legacy of outstanding customer service and to contribute to the overall success of the organization.
Badrea Maadarani Valley News/Courtesy photo
“As outlined in USPS’s Delivering for America plan, we are modernizing and continually adapting to the changing needs of our customers. Our customers
are priority one, whether they’re located in major metropolitan areas or smaller communities like Anza.
“I want to express my gratitude to my sisters for their love, support, and encouragement, to my postal mentors for their guidance, and to the leadership team at the USPS San Diego district office for giving me this opportunity.”
Maadarani was born in Elk Grove, graduated from Elk Grove High School and Sierra College and currently resides in San Jacinto. Her hobbies include spending time with her husband Mark and children Jena and Jennine, outdoor activities such as skiing, camping, hunting and visiting the beach, and shopping.
Submitted by United States Postal Service.
A full holiday meal is served at the Anza Thimble Club’s Thanksgiving meeting Thursday, Nov. 7 at the Community Hall.
Annie Ashby reads a short history of the organization at the Anza Thimble Club’s Thanksgiving meeting at the Community Hall.
Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photos
[Right] Leslie Price and her children show off their raffle prize at the Anza Thimble Club’s Thanksgiving meeting at the Community Hall.
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. 11 through Nov. 17. Nov. 11
Check the welfare - 3800 block Sherman Wy., Anza, handled by deputy Suspicious circumstance4900 block Shoshone Ct., Lake Riverside, report taken Nov. 12
Attempt warrant serviceaddress withheld, Anza, warrant Trespassing - 4900 block Saginaw Ct., Lake Riverside, handled by deputy Nov. 13
Follow-up - address withheld, Anza, handled by deputy
Suspicious circumstance4900 block Shoshone Ct., Lake Riverside, handled by deputy
Petty theft - 5500 block St. Hwy. 371, Anza, report taken
Check the welfare - 4100 block Apple Ln., Anza, handled by deputy
Nov. 14
Check the welfare - 5800 block Larson Rd., Anza, handled by deputy
Burglary - 4800 block Secret Falls Rd., Aguanga, report taken
Suspicious person - address undefined, Anza, handled by deputy
“Some of the people in our group have been in it for 16 - 19 years,” said an emotional James. “To say that we’ve enjoyed serving this community is an understatement. But this Christmas will be the last Christmas Kids event that we will have.”
According to James, the Lions Club of Anza Valley will take over the scholarship program for Hamilton High School seniors, the computer scholarship and the Backpack Giveaway event. Randy Parker from Mr. Happy’s Mercantile will be taking over for emergencies such as clothing needs and food.
Stunned guests sat silent, then applause erupted for the women, who encouraged the party to resume. DJ Johnny Bones kept spinning upbeat music as patrons enjoyed a fine meal, exciting raffle prizes and hugs and praise for the From the Heart ladies.
Meal and raffle ticket sales combined with large donations helped make the event a success.
“We are all beyond grateful for those who came out and shared the evening with us,” said James. “We spend up to $60 per child for our Christmas Kids toy giveaway and I’m sure you’ll understand why the funds are needed. Times are difficult all the way around. If anyone would like to donate, any amount is appreciated and welcomed.”
The traditional Thanksgiving meal featured turkey and ham served with mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, cranberry sauce, pie and beverages. Hamilton High School student volunteers served the meals and even offered second helpings.
Raffles were held during the event, with prizes ranging from gift certificates and baskets to flower arrangements, art and decorative items.
“The generosity of this town never ceases to amaze us,” said James. “These donations will go a long way in providing presents for these children. The Christmas Kids event is going to be Thursday, Dec. 19, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church here in Anza. If you’d like to make financial donations for our final Christmas Kids event, you can drop them at Mr. Happy’s Mercantile, send checks to: From The Heart Christian Women’s Ministries, PO Box 391224, Anza, Ca. 92539 or call/text me at 951-
Nov. 15
911 hangup from cellphone4900 block Flightline Wy., Lake Riverside, handled by deputy Trespassing - 3800 block Sherman Wy., Anza, handled by deputy
Suspicious circumstance4900 block Shoshone Ct., Lake Riverside, handled by deputy Assist other department - 4900 block Bradford Rd., Anza, handled by deputy
Nov. 16
Area check - 4900 block
Shoshone Ct., Lake Riverside, handled by deputy
Public assist - 4100 block
Terwilliger Rd., Anza, handled by deputy
Vicious dog - 5400 block Scouts
Ln., Anza, handled by deputy
Civil dispute - 3900 block
Boulder Hill Rd., Anza, handled by deputy
Public assist - 4900 block
Bradford Hills Rd./Old Stage Rd. Anza, handled by deputy
Nov. 17
Check the welfare - 3900 block
Tamscott Dr., Anza, handled by deputy
Check the welfare - 3700 block
Hill St., Anza, handled by deputy
595-2400.” The From The Heart Christian Women’s Ministries has raised funds to buy Christmas gifts, fill and give away backpacks to school children and assist those local kids that may be disadvantaged, focusing on families and children in need in the mountain communities of Anza, Aguanga, Mountain Center and Idyllwild.
According to James, the From the
children this year. “Thank you all for giving us the opportunity to serve,” said James. “Thank you all for patience, kindness and love throughout the years. Our hearts are with you all, now and always.” The Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church is located at 56095 Pena Road in Anza.
Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia. com
Area check - 4900 block
Shoshone Ct., Lake Riverside, handled by deputy Silent alarm - address withheld, Anza, handled by deputy Public disturbance - 4900 block Shoshone Ct., Lake Riverside, handled by deputy Alarm call - 5900 block Reynolds Wy., Anza, handled by deputy
Suicide threat - address withheld, Lake Riverside, handled by deputy
Public assist - 4900 block Shoshone Ct., Lake Riverside, handled by deputy Public disturbance - 3900 block
Anza Rd./Cahuilla 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
The Sheriff’s Blotter enables residents to know what criminal activity is occurring in their communities. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo
Heart Christmas Kids toy giveaway will serve almost 700
HEART from page D-1
DJ Johnny Bones spins popular and upbeat tunes during the From The Heart Christian Women’s Ministries’ annual Holiday Dinner Saturday, Nov. 9. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photos
Hamilton High School students volunteer to serve a traditional Thanksgiving meal to guests during the From The Heart Christian Women’s Ministries’ annual Holiday Dinner.
Tables are loaded with gifts to be raffled during the From The Heart Christian Women’s Ministries’ annual Holiday Dinner.
Organizer Christi James and her young helpers call out winning raffle ticket numbers during the From The Heart Christian Women’s Ministries’ annual Holiday Dinner.
Lorraine Elmore shows off some of her raffle winnings during the From The Heart Christian Women’s Ministries’ annual Holiday Dinner.
Fiber artist Monica Rue displays her colorful wares at the Warner Springs Artisan Guild’s One-of-a-Kind Gift, Art & Craft Show in Julian Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 9 - 10.
Unique jewelry is displayed by several talented artists at the Warner Springs Artisan Guild’s One-of-a-Kind Gift, Art & Craft Show in Julian. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo
Framed art is ready for gift giving at the Warner Springs Artisan Guild’s One-of-a-Kind Gift, Art & Craft Show in Julian.
Original ceramic pieces are a crowd favorite at the Warner Springs Artisan Guild’s Oneof-a-Kind Gift, Art & Craft Show in Julian Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 9 - 10.
Matt Gunnell displays his hand-crafted leather art at the Warner Springs Artisan Guild’s One-of-a-Kind Gift, Art & Craft Show in Julian.
Laurie Roberts exhibits her paintings at the Warner Springs Artisan Guild’s One-of-aKind Gift, Art & Craft Show in Julian
Heather Lara works on her next scratchboard piece at the Warner Springs Artisan Guild’s One-of-a-Kind Gift, Art & Craft Show in Julian.
Sacha Hope paints on the Town Hall porch at the Warner Springs Artisan Guild’s One-of-a-Kind Gift, Art & Craft Show in Julian.
OPINION
Homeland Security warns vicious Venezuelan prison gang expands its territory to 16 states
Julie Reeder Publisher
As we go to print, the case against Jose Ibarra, 26, who is accused of brutally killing Georgia nursing student Laken Riley appears to be wrapping up.
The killing of Laken Riley has added fuel to the national debate over immigration when federal authorities said Ibarra illegally entered the U.S. in 2022 and was allowed to stay in the country while he pursued his immigration case.
Ibarra has been reported to be a member of the vicious Tren de Aragua gang. He enjoyed a taxpayer-funded free flight from the Biden administration, according to a court witness and sources, from Kennedy Airport in Queens to Atlanta, Georgia, in September 2023, according to the New York Post.
The free flight occurred fewer
than six months before the illegal migrant allegedly hunted down and killed Riley.
With an unmanageable flood of migrants coming to New York, to try and ease the crisis, the city set up a reticketing center last year and provided migrants with federally funded one-way plane tickets to anywhere in the world.
Now we learn that the vicious Venezuelan prison gang has expanded its territory to at least 16 states, including California, according to an internal department intelligence memo from Homeland Security officials
Former DEA federal agent Wes Tabor is reporting that he has been inundated with calls from police departments across the United States, seeking guidance on combating the Venezuelan gang, which has emerged as a major criminal threat both regionally and on U.S. soil, according to the Associated Press.
Tabor, who headed the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s office in Caracas, Venezuela, in 2012, recalls the gang’s early days when it was still relatively unknown. At the time, Venezuela was a critical transit point for Colombian guerrilla-smuggled cocaine, governed by a regime with close ties to adversaries like Iran and Russia.
While the gang posed a danger to the U.S. Embassy personnel in Caracas, it was not viewed as a significant security concern for the United States. Today,
that assessment has changed dramatically.
Now recognized as a transnational criminal organization, Tren de Aragua has rapidly expanded its operations across the Western Hemisphere. Its activities, including human smuggling, drug trafficking, extortion, and violent crimes, have placed it at the center of public safety concerns and political debate in the U.S., fueled by migration from Venezuela.
Then we provided them taxpayer funded plane rides to wherever they wanted to travel and set up operations.
The U.S. Department of the Treasury formally designated Tren de Aragua as a transnational criminal organization on July 11, 2024, highlighting its involvement in human smuggling, gender-based violence, money laundering, and illicit drug trafficking.
“This designation underscores the escalating threat it poses to American communities,” said Brian Nelson, Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence. “The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to using all tools to dismantle organizations like Tren de Aragua that exploit vulnerable populations, engage in cross-border crimes, and abuse the U.S. financial system.”
But only after we provided them free transportation, money and EBT cards.
The AP also reports that Tren de Aragua has diversified its
operations to include illegal mining, kidnapping, and human trafficking. It also leverages its transnational networks to engage in sex trafficking and debt bondage, often targeting migrant women and girls. Victims who attempt to escape are frequently killed, with their deaths publicized as warnings to others.
The gang’s expansion has included infiltrating local criminal economies across South America, laundering money through cryptocurrency, and forging ties with Brazil’s Primeiro Comando da Capital, a notorious organized crime syndicate.
Tren de Aragua was sanctioned under Executive Order 13581, as amended, for its role as a significant transnational criminal organization. Additionally, the U.S. Department of State announced rewards of up to $12 million for information leading to the arrest or conviction of several gang leaders involved in transnational organized crime.
The murder of Laken Riley has intensified the spotlight on Tren de Aragua’s activities in the United States. The case, marked by its brutality, serves as a grim reminder of the gang’s disregard for human life and its willingness to resort to extreme violence to maintain control and instill fear.
“What sets this group apart is their extreme violence,” Tabor explained. “They’re ruthless, desperate, and operate without boundaries, having thrived for years with little confrontation from law enforcement. The stakes are now higher than ever to stop them.”
Maybe we should have stopped them at the border and vetted them before we invited them into our country. This is in no way an antiimmigration statement. It’s an antiillegal immigration statement. We need to protect our citizens from criminals around the world. We have our own criminals, we don’t need more from the Venezuelan prisons.
The double standard of special session
You may have heard that Governor Newsom is convening a special session to “‘Trump-Proof’ states liberal policies.” That’s an interesting thought. In fact, let’s take it a step further. What if our local municipalities adopted a similar approach to safeguard their common-sense policies from overreach by Governor Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta?
As the Governor and Attorney General prepare for a legal fight with the federal government, they appear intent on using taxpayer dollars with little regard for the cost. California’s budget has ballooned to nearly $300 billion, including a robust discretionary fund for the Attorney General’s office.
including some of the highest income, gas, and sales taxes in the nation, make it challenging for people to get by. Many families are being forced to make difficult choices, like cutting back on essentials or relocating to other states, just to make ends meet. Without meaningful action to address these high costs, California risks losing even more of its taxpayers.
ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION.
an attorney, you may want to call an attorney referral service. If you cannot afford an attorney, you may be eligible for free legal services from a nonprofit legal services program. You can locate these nonprofit groups at the California Legal Services website (https://www.calbar. ca.gov/Public/Need-Legal-Help/Free-Legal-Help), or by contacting your local court or county bar association. NOTE: The court has a statutory lien for waived fees and costs on any settlement or arbitration award of $10,000 or more in a civil case. The court’s lien must be paid before the court will dismiss the case. The name and address of the court is Superior Court of California, County of Riverside, 13800 Heacock Street, Bldg. D#201, Moreno Valley, CA 92553 (951) 777-3147. The name, address, and telephone number of plaintiff’s attorney is Ronni M. Vogelsang, Esq. (SBN 345592) Thompson & Colegate LLP, PO Box 1299 [3610 Fourteenth Street], Riverside, CA 92502-1299 (951) 682-5550, (951) 781-4012 (fax). LEGAL # 4271 Published: November 22, 29, December 6, 13, 2024
Meanwhile, local communities like those in our 32nd District are being inundated with mandates to construct high-density housing, often far exceeding what cities have planned for in their general plans. These mandates not only strip away local control but also bypass the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), raising questions about whether environmental policies are applied consistently or only when politically convenient.
You would expect that to implement these policies there would be a comprehensive plan to fund the necessary infrastructure to support the large-scale construction of high-density residential projects right? Wrong. Already grappling with traffic congestion and strained infrastructure, these areas are now being forced to absorb more growth without proper planning, resources, or support. No plan is in place for these communities to prepare for an influx of residents, who will not only need roads and freeways, but access to water, sewer, electricity, gas, schools, healthcare… you get the point.
Furthermore, there is no strategy in place to create a more favorable environment for attracting businesses and creating job opportunities in these affected regions. To the contrary, the supermajority’s policies prioritize curbing the construction of roads and highways in favor of bike lanes and high-speed rail projects.
For those envisioning life in a 700-square-foot apartment, paying $2,500 per month, and commuting 60 miles on overburdened freeways, this approach is probably to your liking. For the rest of us, it simply doesn’t work.
Affordability is a critical concern. From housing to basic necessities, the cost of living has become increasingly unattainable for many families. High taxes,
Public safety is also top of mind. This shift was underscored by the overwhelming passage of Prop 36, signaling widespread dissatisfaction with the state’s experiment in progressive criminal justice reform—a key initiative supported by Governor Newsom and the legislative supermajority. The declining public support for lenient, “soft-on-crime” policies is clear to anyone paying attention. Yet, despite this strong message from voters, state leaders appear largely indifferent to these concerns.
Bonta argues that “California rejected him (Trump). We rejected his values. We rejected his agenda.” But this sentiment cuts both ways. Many counties and cities across California have similarly rejected the values and agenda of Newsom and Bonta. By their own logic, shouldn’t local governments have the same right to push back against state mandates that undermine their communities? Ironically, the defiance Newsom and Bonta champion in the state’s relationship with the federal government— ignoring mandates, filing lawsuits, and spending taxpayer money— seems to be precisely what they wish to deny local governments and our citizens.
I call on Newsom and Bonta to stop their politically motivated posturing over the President Elect, end the hypocrisy, and start thinking about how to responsibly address the critical damage being inflicted on all Californians as a result of their progressive policies. Housing affordability, infrastructure development, public safety, and the rising cost of living require immediate and thoughtful attention. Californians deserve leadership that puts people over politics and collaborates with local governments to create policies that work for everyone. Many Californians simply can’t afford to live here anymore.
The “special session” called for by the Governor should be shelved. We need to get back to work addressing the real issues in California.
Senator Kelly Seyarto, R-Murrieta California 32nd District
