Valley News - November 29, 2024

What the cannabis industry looks like now and what it might look like in the future

Tony Ault Staff Writer

Since Nov. 16, 2016, when California voters legalized recreational cannabis through Proposition 64, much has changed. Millions of dollars from state, county, and city excise taxes from California’s newest agricultural and retail businesses have enriched many of those government agencies.

Valley-Wide’s

Turkey Trot attracts record number of participants

Diane A. Rhodes

Special to Valley News

Valley-Wide Recreation and Park District held its 36th annual Turkey Trot Family Fun Run on Saturday, Nov. 23. This year, it was named the Jack Warneke Memorial 2024 Turkey Trot in honor of longtime supporter Jack Warneke, of San Jacinto, who passed away in March. Warneke had participated in all 35 of the previous races as well as all of the Bunny Hop runs held in the spring. He was also a regular competitor in the District’s annual OLDlympics. Warneke kept a log of all his runs, and it amounted to more than 25,000 miles in his 92 years.

CJ’s Smile spreads smiles to local families for the holidays

Diane A. Rhodes Special to Valley News

CJ’s Smile is a nonprofit organization that was established in 2022 to support families dealing with childhood cancer by providing gifts with the hope of bringing a smile to the faces of children battling cancer. It was created to keep the memory of CJ Delfosse alive. The 10-year-old Menifee resident valiantly fought a rare childhood cancer for two years before succumbing to the disease on Jan. 30, 2022.

Chris and Stephanie Delfosse, CJ’s parents and co-founders of CJ’s Smile, said, “There is so much hurt in our hearts knowing that we will never get to see our son grow up, never get to see him play soccer again, never get to see him become the police officer he always wanted

see SMILE, page A-4

Southwest Healthcare Temecula Valley Hospital appoints

announce the appointment of Zachary Johnson, CPA, as its new Chief Financial Officer effective Nov. 4. Johnson will be responsible for overseeing the financial operations of TVH, including budgeting, financial planning, revenue cycle management, and strategic fiscal initiatives. His leadership will play a key role in ensuring the hospital continues to deliver exceptional care while maintaining financial sustainability and efficiency.

Zachary brings a wealth of experience in healthcare financial management to his new role. Prior to joining Temecula Valley Hospital, he held senior financial leadership positions with HCA Healthcare, Riverside Community Hospital in Riverside, CA, and Methodist Hospital in San Antonio, TX. In

these roles, he was responsible for overseeing key hospital departments, including Accounting, Case Management, Admitting, Health Information Management (HIM), Denials, Information Technology (IT), Supply Chain, and also served as the hospital’s Chief Staffing Officer.

Zachary holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Northern Arizona University and a Master of Science in Business Administration and is a licensed CPA. His comprehensive background in both financial operations and hospital management will be an asset to the continued success and strategic growth of Temecula Valley Hospital.

“I am thrilled to be joining the Temecula Valley Hospital team and to contribute to its mission of

Zachary Johnson has been appointed as Temecula Valley Hospital’s new CFO.

CJ Delfosse’s parents, Chris and Stephanie, and his sister Sophia at last year’s blanket drive for children with childhood cancer. Valley News/Courtesy photo

What the cannabis industry looks like now and what it might look like in the future

From a local cannabis dispensary owner’s viewpoint

Tony Ault Staff Writer

Since Nov. 16, 2016, when California voters legalized recreational cannabis through Proposition 64, much has changed. Millions of dollars from state, county, and city excise taxes from California’s newest agricultural and retail businesses have enriched many of those government agencies.

Yet, many young entrepreneurs who quickly latched onto that new enterprise today are finding their profits have greatly diminished or are almost nil with the advent of big corporations who have taken advantage of the industry – particularly in its medicinal fields. The result in Southwest Riverside County is evident with many local cannabis dispensaries having to close or move to less taxed areas.

Those moves have not only cost local cities millions of dollars, but are opening the doors for more illegal marijuana and hard drug dealers giving law enforcement, medical and mental health facilities even more problems. Yes, some cities with low excise or local taxes have benefitted, but they are becoming fewer and fewer.

Where will it all end? Who are the real losers of this new marijuana industry, once considered addictive, leading to serious drug abuse, now being considered a legal, less addictive and medically valuable pain control drug by the government? Such possible addiction was once the cause for prohibiting alcoholic beverages by most Americans.

Here is what one cannabis dispensary owner in San Jacinto, Fatima Rahman, has to say about the future of her business, Budology and others in the community, in an exclusive Valley News interview.

She first spoke about her city of San Jacinto, where her businesses are located, which most recently reduced their cannabis dispensary taxes to 10% per dollar from the maximum of 15% per dollar in re-

tail sales. She and her husband are owners of other businesses in the community and elsewhere, helping her keep the dispensaries running. Before the San Jacinto City excise tax was reduced, she said of her business, “There was no profit.” After she won the tax reduction she said, “So obviously being a cannabis owner in a city with excessively high taxes they have all around, starting with the state and all the way down to the city. The expenses I am talking about are 42% (taxes) from each gross receipt that we sell (products). It leaves us with about 50%. So out of the 50%, I pay 40% to inventory. That leaves me with 10% which means I’m not able to pay my employees at the end of the month. That is basically what is happening.” She also pays an 8.75% retail sales tax and property taxes at about 1.5% in Riverside County.

Q. How do you keep going then?

“We use the income from our cultivation, from my body shop and my audio shop. By real estate, by my whole team, by consulting. I have 500 to 600 employee jobs I have to retain to be able to sustain this business and not lay off everybody.”

She continued. “By the city dropping it to 10% from 15%, it’s a small victory. The city thinks it’s a big decrease for the business and the business owners, but it is still not sustainable. January 1, is when they want to implement it. So, the first time it will be reflected in our business will be March 30th,” she continued. “And January 1, if the state raises their tax to 19% it (the city tax reduction) will be a wash.”

She is convinced the state will be raising its excise tax which has yet to be seen since in California, That particular excise tax cannot be raised until July of 2025 if it is done.

Q. What then will you have to do with your cannabis businesses?

“I do appreciate all the council people who made an educated

decision and supported their local businesses,” she continued. “I thank those council people who understand where the small businesses stand because we are not corporations. We don’t have multiple cannabis organizations. We specifically stayed in the city where we were previously operating our other businesses where we own land. Where we are in the community. No other company came to the city for a cannabis business license because it was not sustainable and they know that.”

Q. What is your response to those corporations coming into the communities?

“Yes, they are and they are buying the entire portfolio of anyone who sells anything saying it’s good for you, just like WalMart and the store across the street from them (Aldi). We are small businesses. It’s going to be the same thing. We need support from the local communities, which we got. I am very, very thankful and happy for having council people who are doing their fiduciary duties and going out to our businesses and see the cost for our employees and actually see what’s going on.” She praised those council members who came out to see her business and how it was run. “They are doing their jobs.”

Q. Is your cultivation business going to be affected by this?

“No, it’s not going to be affected. That industry was hit hard with taxes, but the state laid off of that so the legal market would flourish. That has taken two years. The same thing needs to happen by the state in its retail taxes so there are no more illegal dispensaries and no more illegal cultivation and everyone is going to benefit by having these businesses in the city by collecting a reasonable amount of taxation. That is by fair business price models. They need to be introduced to this city (San Jacinto).”

Q. If the major corporations do come into the city what will happen?

sell fentanyl and weed. They sell it a lot cheaper than my shop. I know that for sure.”

She added even though her dispensaries are selling at a higher price, “We know we are selling legal, regulated items not laced with fentanyl, that are not laced with cocaine and not laced with other God knows what. We know we are administering our regulated cannabis to the properly aged people, not to the high school kids who walk down the street to the park and buy weed and crack laced with fentanyl for $10.

Q. How high are the legal health requirements for the sale of retail cannabis products?

juana that people don’t even know what the long-term effects are.”

She said many of the marijuana grows have things on it and when people even touched it, it should have been destroyed. That has never happened to my grow.

Q. There is some indication that the federal government may declare marijuana a legal drug. What do you think about that?

“They will fight you. They will not pay a dollar. They will sell everything for half the price and it will not be profitable anymore. They will not hire local people.”

She said it will probably affect the illegal market. “They will still be here. It’s the higher tax rates as long as the higher tax rates are here. “You can’t beat the illegal market.” She cited the illegal sellers seen in the local parks “They

“Oh, very high,” Rahman said, “We are recording everything. The testing has to be randomly picked. We have DCC inspections. We go to a testing facility that is regulated by Cannabis Control. We have to recall products that are subject to being returned. Yes, marijuana needs to be regulated. It also needs to be less taxed so that people can actually afford the regulated products. Because if it is not regulated, there could be substances in mari-

“They are moving it from a Class A drug like cocaine and methadone, changing the classification to remove it from that list should it be legal. I’m not sure what the laws are about that or what’s going to be the effect. All I know is if it does become federally legal it takes off the city tax.” She presumed “it could make the legal market even worse for us. Business-regulated people pay taxes and then we would have another tax to pay and that’s not going to happen. The illegal market is going to explode if it is not regulated the proper way and taxed the right way.”

Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedernedia.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 Modern-

ization 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.

Fatima Rahman owns a dispensary and other businesses in San Jacinto. Valley News/Tony Ault photo

Menifee Council squabbles again with neighboring city of Perris over proposed warehouse projects

Tony

Ault Staff Writer

The dispute about the environmental and traffic impacts of warehouses between the cities of Perris and Menifee continued Wednesday, Nov. 20, with Perris appealing the latest warehouse project.

This is the second large warehouse proposal for Menifee’s northern economic corridor that the Menifee Planning Commission has approved and forwarded to the Menifee City Council for final approval this year. However, the proposal is being appealed by the city of Perris.

This proposed project, a 700,000-square-foot industrial warehouse, would be located east of Trumble Road, south of Ethanac Road, west of Sherman Road, and north of McLaughlin Road. Developer CADO is asking the city to approve the General Plan Amendment, with the project not expected to have a significant effect on the environment and to approve the plot and specific plans for the warehouse project.

Perris gave six arguments questioning the decision in its appeal of the Planning Commission’a approval: having an Incomplete Project Description, Insufficient Analysis of Transportation Impacts, Greenhouse Gas Emissions,

SMILE from page A-1

to be. With all this hurt we feel in our hearts, it feels good to carry on his legacy as the kid who always made others smile through our CJ’s Smile foundation.”

The Delfosses said CJ received a lot of gifts when he was at Rady Children’s Hospital and that helped him. Being able to provide that same joy to other children continues to be a goal of the nonprofit. Since its inception, it has expanded its outreach and this year members were able to “Adopt a Family” for the holidays for the first time.

“Our board came together to

Air Quality Emissions, Noise Impacts, and Inadequate Project Alternatives.

The City of Menifee said the city planners saw to it that the project had met all the requirements outlined in the general plan in this area and properly addressed the issues, except for the Global Greenhouse Gas Emissions Standard (3,000 metric tons per year) that would exceed (4,912 MTCo2) in the project. However, they argued it would not damage the health of the residents or workers as it is quickly dissipated in the air. The experts said the emission would not be coming from the project itself but from the truck traffic it would bring in the near future. But, in the far future, with the state’s new zero-emission technology, it could be resolved.

It was the Greenhouse Gas Emission exception question that brought the public hearing continuation as requested by Council Member Bob Karwin.

Karwin, in questioning the Perris City arguments, first indicated that the project followed all the environmental requirements and the General Plan in Menifee. But then he asked their attorney and city planner at the meeting what Perris’ MTCo2 is, learning it was 10,000 MTCo2, far more than Menifee’s.

He asked if the project would

review the applications, and it was incredibly difficult to choose just one family to support,” said Ellen Sasto, CJ’s grandmother and vice president. “Ultimately, we decided that with the funds we had raised, we could assist two families in need. The first is Maverick, an 8-year-old boy from Menifee who is courageously fighting lymphoma. The second is 1-year-old Jacob, who is battling rhabdomyosarcoma, the same cancer CJ had. Our hearts go out to these families facing such challenging journeys.” Additionally, all the families who were nominated or who reached out to the organization

be approved if it was located in their city across Ethanac Road. The answer was not immediately forthcoming by their planning commissioner who indirectly said it probably would. Karwin then turned the question around and said that Perris’ main objection was the truck traffic it might bring on Ethanac Avenue that borders southern Perris.

Karwin then asked if Menifee directed the truck traffic off another highway would Perris still object to the project? Perris, in 2022, removed the busy highway from its truck route map. Menifee’s northern border with Perris is along the same highway.

There was no response from the planner who said it would be up to their council, but the Perris attorney said they stood by all their reasons for appeal.

Council Member Ricky Estrada said he opposed the warehouse project since there could be better alternatives along Ethanac Road with more retail and commercial projects that would better benefit both Menifee and Perris residents moving into the area and enhance the economy.

His argument was challenged by Mayor Bill Zimmerman and Council Member Dean Deines who said such retail and commercial projects could not afford the $40 million in infrastructure

brought by the proposed warehouse projects, as allowed in the General Plan, and would not bring the needed well-paying jobs to its residents.

Following more discussion, the motion to approve the Planning Commission’s recommendation was approved by the majority of the council with Estrada dissenting.

In May another warehouse project, the CORE Industries Menifee Road Warehouse Project, was questioned by the City of Perris giving the same alleged planning and environment discrepancies. That future warehouse would be located on approximately 28 acres bordered by Geary Street on the west and Murrieta Road to the west and north of McLaughlin Road.

The building would have 533,252 square feet of space available. This project appeal by the City of Perris was denied by the Menifee Council in a 4 to 1 vote with Estrada again dissenting.

With the question brought by Estrada about making changes to the General Plan in the discussion, Council Member Lesa Sobek, soon to become mayor, made the suggestion that the council revisit the city’s General Plan in a future meeting and make any changes that would be of better benefit to the city’s residents.

Earlier in the evening the coun-

cil took time to recognize the accomplishments of Menifee City Clerk Sarah Manwaring who has announced her retirement after serving Menifee for the past 11 years, nine of those as city clerk. City Manager Armando Villa praised Manwaring for making the city more efficient by digitizing the city records and leading her staff and city through the COVID-19 years and advising new city council members on record keeping and election issues.

George Mills, former president of the Menifee Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club and other organizations that benefitted city residents and their children, was named Citizen of the Month.

The council members again sought the city manager and Fire Chief Mark Scoville to work with the Riverside County Fire Chief and the neighboring cities to balance the mutual aid response pact where Menifee is using their fire equipment outside of the city too often, particularly in Perris and Wildomar.

Fourteen consent items were approved and the Menifee Fall Teen winners were announced and handed certificates and Menifee Lakes Women’s Club $100 rewards.

Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com

about this event will be receiving a Blessing Envelope with an Amazon gift card.

We plan to provide a Christmas wish list not just for the children we mentioned, but for their immediate families as well, including parents and siblings,” board member Lauren Larkin said. “Our goal is to make this holiday season brighter for the entire family, spreading love and support to everyone facing these challenges.”

She said this is the first year the nonprofit is providing more substantial gifts for the entire immediate family of two families for Christmas. Plans are to continue this tradition in the future.

For those wishing to help the nonprofit support others, on Dec. 7 from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., CJ’s Smile is hosting a blanket drive at Michelle’s Place Cancer Resource Center, 41669 Winchester Road, #101 in Temecula. The second annual Santa Cares with CJ’s Smile will have light refreshments and treats available. For a photo with Santa, please bring an unwrapped new blanket for children battling cancer during the holiday season. All the blankets will be taken to the Emilio Nares Foundation at their annual Holiday event in Mission Bay.

“In the spring, we’re excited to continue our partnership with Murrieta Dollars for Scholars for the second year, helping to give back to our community and support local teens,” board member Robin Curby said. “We will also be holding our third annual CJ’s Soccer Classic, which will now be a tournament weekend, scheduled for May 17-18, 2025, in Murrieta. Additionally, we’re thrilled to announce that MYSL (Murrieta Youth Soccer League) has officially added the CJ’s Smile Soccer Classic to their schedule, marking a significant milestone for our event. We’re deeply grateful for their support.”

The organization continues to make trips to Rady Children’s

Hospital in San Diego to deliver Blessing Envelopes. This year, they have donated $1,000 due to their willingness to support any child facing cancer, no matter the region.

“The growth of CJ’s Smile over the past two years can be attributed to the unwavering dedication of our Board of Directors, all of whom share a deep love for CJ,” Rod Amstutz, CJ’s fifth-grade teacher and board CFO said. “Thanks to their efforts, we’ve been able to reach over 200 children with Blessing Envelopes. Our growth has also been fueled by the incredible support from the business communities in the Temecula Valley, who have generously donated gift cards, raffle prizes, and their time, all while helping to keep CJ’s memory and legacy alive.”

Seven family members are involved with the nonprofit, serving on the Board of Directors as CEO, President, Vice President, Secretary, Social Media Coordinator, Events Coordinator, and Mer -

chandise Coordinator. Additional members of the board are close friends of CJ’s family. Stephanie Delfosse said, “There have been so many meaningful developments in the past two years that she finds it difficult to single out which one was most significant. The City of Menifee recognized Childhood Cancer Month, MYSL teaming with CJ’s Smile, and the Menifee Police Department recognizing CJ as an honorary police officer as a token of their support and love are just a few that have taken place.”

Board secretary and CJ’s aunt, Cheryl Kitzerow said, “All of our funding is raised through the generosity of our family, friends, business community and acquaintances, as well as through the sale of merchandise and our various fundraising events we host throughout the year.”

For more information, www. cjssmile.org, on Instagram at cjs_ smile, and Facebook at CJ’s Smile.

Immediate family members of CJ Delfosse at the second annual CJ’s Smile Soccer Classic. Valley News/Courtesy photo

CJ Delfosse, whose family created the nonprofit CJ’s Smile in his memory, lost his battle to childhood cancer in 2022. Valley News/Courtesy photo

Local catering company donates Thanksgiving dinners to Murrieta homeless shelter

JP Raineri Writer

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, Creative Catering, a Temeculabased company, is stepping up to bring warmth and gratitude to those in need. On Monday, Nov. 25, the local catering company, along with Project T.O.U.C.H., will deliver 50 prepared turkey dinners to a homeless shelter located in Murrieta.

Tanya Lopez, Event Manager at Creative Catering and VIP Room Temecula, shares the motivation behind the initiative. “By donating hot turkey dinners, we can help assure that those facing hardship can still experience the warmth and togetherness that Thanksgiving represents,” she said. Lopez added, “It’s an opportunity for our team to extend kindness, share our many blessings, and reach out to those who may otherwise go without a holiday meal.”

This act of generosity coincides with Creative Catering’s commitment to giving back to the community it serves. Known for its comprehensive event planning services, Creative Catering offers everything from private venue space and wedding packages to off-site chef services, ensuring every event is a memorable one. Located in the heart of Temecula, the company is grounded in community spirit, providing locals wi th exceptional services for weddings, corporate events, and

social gatherings.

Project T.O.U.C.H., the recipient of the donated meals, has been a steadfast supporter of the Murrieta community since 2003. By offering year-round emergency beds and transitional housing programs, the nonprofit aids approximately 40-50 people daily within Southwest Riverside County. This includes single mothers, seniors, veterans, and families, with an average of 90-100 children receiving shelter and support. The organization plays a critical role in addressing homelessness by ensuring access to essential services and fostering community support.

Thanksgiving, a time traditionally marked by abundance and gratitude, can be a challenging period for those experiencing poverty and homelessness. Creative Catering’s donation reflects the true essence of the holiday—community solidarity and giving. Their involvement not only provides a hot meal but also brings hope and connection to individuals and families who may feel isolated.

The impact of such initiatives extends beyond a single meal. By bridging gaps between the housed and the unhoused, Creative Catering and Project T.O.U.C.H. are fostering understanding and empathy within the community.

This partnership highlights the role local businesses can play in supporting grassroots efforts to combat homelessness.

Creative Catering’s contribution

is part of a broader effort to engage the community in addressing local challenges. By working together, businesses, nonprofits, and residents can make a significant difference in the lives of Murrieta’s most vulnerable citizens.

For those interested in supporting Project T.O.U.C.H., donations and volunteer opportunities are available throughout the year. These contributions are crucial in maintaining the shelter’s long-

standing mission to offer a safe haven and supportive environment for those in need.

For more information about Creative Catering and its services, or to schedule an appointment, contact them online at www.creativecateringtemecula.com or by phone at 951-401-2459. They are located in the Tower Plaza Center at 27525 Ynez Road, in Temecula (Appointments only).

To learn more about Project

T.O.U.C.H. and how to get involved, visit their website at www. projecttouchonline.com or contact their office directly by phone at 951-677-9661.

This Thanksgiving, the message is clear—together, we can make a difference in our community.

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

Murrieta City Council honors long-time City Manager Kim Summers on her retirement

A long business session follows with a late closing

Tony Ault Staff Writer

The Murrieta City Council, staff and many dignitaries bid longtime Murrieta City Manager Kim Summers a retirement farewell at the November 19 City Council Meeting. Summers served as the Murrieta City Manager for the past seven and one-half years and four years on staff before that. She is one of the longest-serving city managers in Southwest Riverside County.

The gracious and well-liked city manager received awards and accolades from more than a dozen city, county, federal and state elected officials, business executives, fire and police, and water and school districts for leading Murrieta to become one of the safest and most prosperous cities in California.

Her official retirement drew a large crowd of friends, colleagues, and community members, filling every seat in the Murrieta City Council chambers. The lengthy ceremony concluded with enthusiastic rounds of applause, followed by a 15-minute recess and a congratulatory gathering before the regular council meeting commenced. During the regular city council many items were discussed, and among them was the council’s very favorable approval for the Murrieta Police Department to purchase a $1.8 million Public Safety Mobile Command Center vehicle to replace an aging command vehicle. In a Public Hearing, the council approved the allocation of $577,000 in federal Community Block Grant Funds, nearly $3 million in citywide street slurry seal projects, and a $1 million land acquisition and land exchange for the construction of new fire station #6 in the city. Presenting the Police Department’s request for the new command center was Police Chief Anthony Conrad who said the new command center not only would be of use to the Fire Department and in the region as well. I would replace the department’s aging command center vehicle that has been in service for nearly 20 years.

He also credited Congressman Darrel Issa who, for years, worked with the city and Congress to win a $900,000 public safety grant that will help pay for the vehicle along with Measure T and Development Impact Fees available toward its purchase. The council congratulated the chief and the department for working several years to make

the purchase possible.

The 2025-2026 $577,000 Community Development Block Grant, although much lower than the 2024-2025 grant recommended allocations with 65% of it going to the Pedestrian Safety Enforcement totaling $375,050, 9% less than last year. The remainder will be going to the city and county administrative fees of $115,310 and a total of 15% or $86,550 to Murrieta nonprofits serving a wide range of low-to-moderateincome residents in the city. This year there will be nine nonprofit agencies receiving a share. The nonprofits and the total grant amounts include:

The Assistance League of the Temecula Valley, $15,275

The Boys & Girls Club of the Inland Valley, $8,000 Cultivating Inclusion Garden, $8,000

Mission of Hope, Rancho Damacitas Services,$8,000

St . Martha’s Food Pantry, $15,275 Oak Grove School, $8,000 Voices for Children, $8,000 Safe Family Justice Center, $8,000 Habitat for Humanity Seniors, $8,000

Three other agencies applied for grants but were not considered either because of incomplete applications or having other avenues of assistance.

The council, led by Council Member Ron Holiday, apologized for this year’s grant being much less than last, but saw little way to change the recommendations and still be fair to all who received more last year. Mayor Lori Stone said it was a very difficult task for staff with fewer CDBG funds coming in this year when every applicant was very much in need.

Seven recipient representatives thanked the council and staff for their grant approvals.

It was explained the $2,952,488.50 with a 15% contingency, Murrieta street slurry seal contract awarded to Roy Allan Slurry Seal, Inc. for the 2025 year represents about 20% of the streets in the city with the remainder already slurry sealed or planned to be slurry sealed through the Capital Improvement Funding Plan. City streets average about a seven-year life span before needing to be slurry sealed or replaced.

To proceed with the planned construction of Fire Station #6, the city needed to acquire the ScottMurrieta service station property for $1 million. Additionally, a land swap agreement was approved by

the City Council in a unanimous 5-0 vote.

The long four-hour City Council session ended at 10 p.m. after the official appointment of Justin Clinton, assistant city manager, to

the position of City Manager for a total of $314,000 and benefits awarded to city administrators. He has worked with retiring City Manager Kim Summers as an assistant city manager and knows

well the city’s current needs and its future plans. Hand shakes all around were given by the council members.

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

Creative Catering’s team will prepare 50 turkey dinners for donation to Project T.O.U.C.H. Valley News/Courtesy

A new Christmas tree farm opens in Temecula

TEMECULA - Families are invited to choose and cut their Christmas tree this year from Temecula’s new Christmas tree farm. Gold Crown Farm announces the grand opening of their new Choose and Cut Christmas Tree farm on Nov. 29 by private reservation. Located just 6 minutes from Old Town Temecula, Gold Crown will open its private Christmas Tree farm to 300 families by private reservation. “After five years of hand cultivating our Monterey Pine Christmas Trees, we are so happy to finally be open this year,” says Kurt Merrill, owner of Gold Crown. “There is nothing like the experience of walking through the fields and choosing the perfect family Christmas tree. The smell of a freshly cut Monterey Pine Christmas Tree in your home is really special!”

Known for being Southern California’s leading grower and processor of macadamia nuts, Gold Crown decided to expand farming operations and plant over 2,000 Christmas trees during the COVID shutdown. “Besides the

Rainbow

Joe Naiman Special to Valley News

fact that we love Christmas,” says

General Manager Christi Caruso, “Farmer Kurt has a deep family background in growing Christmas trees. The thought of having one of our hand-grown Christmas Trees as the centerpiece of your family’s holiday is a real joy and privilege for us!”

About Gold Crown Farms Gold Crown Farms is dedicated to cultivating food grown on healthy land using sustainable farming practices, ensuring the production of healthy, high-quality food. As stewards of the land, the farm’s team is committed to preserving its health to benefit others.

The family takes pride in their heritage and the products they produce, including macadamia nuts, honey, fruits, and Christmas trees that bring joy to holiday celebrations. As 13th-generation farmers, they feel privileged to carry on their family traditions and express gratitude to those who support their efforts.

To make a reservation to select a Christmas tree, visit www. GoldCrownFarms.com.

area added to Division 2 of EMWD

The reorganization in which the Rainbow Municipal Water District detached from the San Diego County Water Authority and annexed to the Eastern Municipal Water District as a retail agency is now complete. Eastern has adjusted its division boundaries to add Rainbow to Division 2 for EMWD election purposes.

With Jeff Armstrong absent, the 4-0 EMWD board vote Nov. 20 adopts a resolution adding Rainbow to Division 2. The board also authorized EMWD general manager Joe Mouawad or his designee to execute a billing and service agreement between Rainbow and Eastern for Eastern to be Rainbow’s wholesale water provider. EMWD staff was also authorized to continue the redistricting process to rebalance the populations of the five EMWD divisions, reflecting the addition of the Fallbrook Public Utility District into the EMWD service area.

The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California began delivering water to San Diego County in 1947. MWD’s San Diego Aqueduct conveys water to a delivery point six miles south of the Riverside County line, which allowed MWD and the San Diego County Water Authority to provide equal contributions for the connection between MWD’s Colorado River Aqueduct and the San Vicente Reservoir in Lakeside. The SDCWA northern boundary was the county line. All but one of FPUD’s connections are from MWD pipelines rather than from CWA pipelines, and four of Rainbow’s eight connections are to the MWD portion of the pipeline.

FPUD and Rainbow sought to reduce their cost of purchasing water - and thus their rates - by detaching from the CWA and joining Eastern.

The Western Municipal Water District is also a member of MWD and provides retail water sales of MWD supply to the Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District and to the Rancho California Water District. The status of FPUD and Rainbow is thus similar to that of the two water districts that obtain MWD water from Western. In July 2023 San Diego County’s Local Agency Formation Commission approved a reorganization for FPUD and Rainbow to detach from the CWA and join the Eastern contingent upon approval by the FPUD and Rainbow voters. The voters of both districts overwhelmingly approved the reorganization in November 2023.

After the LAFCO decision, the CWA filed a lawsuit against LAFCO, FPUD, and Rainbow.

The four agencies agreed to a settlement in December 2023. FPUD’s detachment from the CWA and annexation to Eastern became effective January 1, 2024.

The Rainbow detachment required the completion of pump stations to allow all Rainbow water to be taken from turnouts north of the MWD/CWA boundary. The Rainbow reorganization took effect Nov. 1, 2024.

Although Riverside County’s LAFCO had delegated the reorganization process to San Diego County’s LAFCO, both LAFCO agencies filed certificates of completion with their respective county recorder’s office. The certificates of completion for the FPUD reorganization were recorded in December 2023. The San Diego LAFCO certificate

Pedestrian dies after collision with car

TEMECULA – A 32-year-old female from Hemet was driving a 2016 Hyundai Elantra eastbound on SR-74 just west of White Avenue at approximately 50 mph on Friday, Nov. 15, around 9:15 p.m. As the Hyundai Elantra approached the intersection with White Avenue, a 49-year-old male from Homeland was running in a southerly direction from the north side of SR-74. The male pedestrian ran directly in the path of the Elantra. The front end of the 2016

Hyundai Elantra collided into the male pedestrian. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) and Cal Fire responded to the collision scene. The male pedestrian was pronounced deceased at the scene. The female driver remained at the scene and cooperated with CHP investigators. The Temecula Area CHP is conducting this traffic collision investigation. Submitted by California Highway Patrol.

www.berry-bellandhall.com

of completion for Rainbow was recorded November 5 and the Riverside County LAFCO certificate of completion was recorded November 7.

The water billing and service agreement between Eastern and FPUD for Eastern to be FPUD’s wholesale water provider was approved by the EMWD board January 3 and by the FPUD board at a January 4 special meeting. Rainbow’s board held a special meeting November 19 to approve the billing and service agreement between Rainbow and Eastern.

Other than the receiving agency and the specific MWD turnouts the EMWD billing and service agreements are identical for FPUD and Rainbow. Six MWD pipelines carry water along the San Diego Aqueduct from the Robert A. Skinner Water Treatment Plant in Temecula. Pipelines 1, 2, and 4 convey treated water while Pipelines 3, 5, and 6 deliver untreated supply. (Pipeline 6 currently carries untreated water for seven miles from Lake Skinner to Anza Road and De Portola Road; the southern portion which would serve San Diego County is not expected to be needed in the near future so that part of the project has been deferred.) Eastern will provide both FPUD and Rainbow with treated potable water from Pipeline 1 and Pipeline 4. The Rainbow turnouts which will be used are identified by MWD as SD-09, SD-05, SD-10, and RB-1.

Eastern will receive water delivery orders from Rainbow and will communicate that demand to MWD. The cost of the water will be based on MWD and EMWD rates including Rainbow’s prorata share of MWD’s Readiness to Serve Charge and Capacity Charge. Eastern will also add an administrative overhead fee, which is currently $11 per acrefoot. Eastern will not guarantee the reliability of MWD supply nor will Eastern guarantee water quality standards.

Eastern will take over administration of MWD programs for Rainbow which had been administered from the CWA. That

JOHNSON from page A-1

delivering exceptional care to the community,” said Zachary. “As healthcare continues to evolve, my focus will be on maintaining financial integrity and operational efficiency, ensuring we have the resources and infrastructure to de-

includes MWD’s Local Resources Program which provides financial incentives for the development of local supplies which increase supply reliability and reduce imported water demands. Rainbow will also be eligible for other EMWD programs. As a retail agency of a wholesale agency FPUD and Rainbow residents will be eligible to vote both for their FPUD or Rainbow division board seat and for their EMWD division seat. Every 10 years the EMWD director divisions are adjusted to account for population changes recorded in the decennial census. The maximum allowable variance from the highest-populated to the lowestpopulated trustee area is 10%. Local agencies are allowed to revise their trustee area boundaries, contingent upon the areas having approximately equal population and the boundaries not being drawn to disenfranchise any specific group, as the district feels is warranted so the boundaries may change earlier if growth in an area creates an unequal population – or if a populated area is annexed to the district. The 2020 census had a total EMWD population of 870,579 consisting of 178,018 in Division 1 which includes French Valley and Winchester, 165,186 in Division 2 which is the Temecula portion of the district, 182,661 in Division 3 covering Hemet and San Jacinto, 177,198 in Division 4 which has Menifee and Perris, and 167,156 in Division 5 which is Moreno Valley. The total population of 870,579 equates to a target population of 174,116 in each division. When the revised maps were created EMWD staff also anticipated growth throughout the decade, and divisions which are expected to grow faster relative to the total growth in the district were allocated slightly lower populations in an attempt to keep the division populations balanced through 2030. The boundary map adopted had 167,364 people in Division 1, 176,879 residents of Division 2, 182,712 Division 3 community members, 166,790 Division 4 resi-

liver the highest level of care to our patients and support the dedicated staff who make it possible.”

“We are excited to welcome Zach to our leadership team,” said Hong Min, CEO of Temecula Valley Hospital. “His deep expertise in healthcare finance, coupled with his proven ability to man-

dents, and 176,834 people in Division 5. The new boundaries, which became effective for the November 2022 elections, were approved during a February 2022 EMWD board meeting. Divisions 1, 2, and 5 had elections in November 2022. The first elections for Divisions 3 and 4 under the new boundaries were in November 2024.

FPUD and Rainbow are adjacent to Division 2. A February 21 EMWD board vote placed the FPUD area into Division 2 for EMWD election purposes. EMWD staff was also authorized to initiate the redistricting process to rebalance the populations of the five EMWD divisions, although that redistricting was deferred until after the annexation of the Rainbow Municipal Water District to Eastern was complete so that the boundaries would not need to be adjusted twice. Division 2 is currently represented by Stephen Corona, and since that seat is not subject to election until November 2026 the redistricting did not need to occur until after Rainbow joined Eastern.

FPUD had a population of 34,738 when the 2020 census was conducted. Rainbow’s current estimated population is approximately 24,000. Without redistricting the variance between Division 2 and the lowest-populated division would be approximately 37%.

The California Elections Code prevents any change in division boundaries within 180 days prior to the election of any director although Rainbow staff expects the redistricting to be complete by June 2025. A January 2025 public workshop will discuss the process and solicit feedback. Draft maps will be prepared, and a public hearing targeted for February or March will review the draft maps and solicit feedback. The comments will be incorporated into a proposed final map which would be adopted at a public hearing targeted for spring 2025.

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

age a broad range of operational functions, will be invaluable in securing the financial health of the hospital and enhancing our ability to meet the needs of the community we serve.”

Submitted by Southwest Healthcare Temecula Valley Hospital.

Gold Crown cultivated Monterey Pine trees for their newly opened Christmas tree farm. Valley News/Gold Crown photo

Hundreds of people enjoy free turkey dinner during the Murrieta Mesa High School Share the Harvest event.

Hundreds

ENTERTAINMENT

November 29 – December 5, 2024

‘ anksLiving’ vegan recipes

Savannah R. Reynolds Valley News Intern

This Thanksgiving let’s take a moment to celebrate not only the abundance of food on our tables but also the compassion in our hearts. These plant-based dishes are a beautiful way to nourish our bodies, uplift our spirits, and show kindness to the animals we share this world with. By choosing vegan recipes, we embrace a lifestyle that honors all living beings, making the holiday season even more meaningful. These three delicious recipes are perfect for bringing people together and celebrating with compassion. Each recipe serves seven people, making them ideal for a cozy family gathering or small Thanksgiving celebration. Whether you’re hosting a few loved ones or sharing with a larger group, these plant-based dishes will nourish and inspire everyone around the table.

Vegan Mashed Potatoes with Miyoko’s Butter (Serves 7)

Ingredients:

• 3 pounds of potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work well)

• 3/4 cup Miyoko’s Vegan Butter (or any vegan butter you prefer)

• 3/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (or other plant milk)

• 3 cloves garlic, minced (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Chopped chives or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Peel and chop the potatoes into chunks. Place them in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil.

2. Cook the potatoes for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.

3. While the potatoes are still hot, add the Miyoko’s butter, almond milk, and garlic (if using). Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. You can use a potato masher or a hand mixer for a smoother texture.

4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Cook the lentils in the vegetable broth or water until tender (about 25 minutes). Drain and set aside.

3. In a large skillet, sauté the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic over medium heat until soft (about 8-10 minutes).

4. In a large mixing bowl, mash the cooked lentils and add the sautéed vegetables, breadcrumbs, tomato paste, soy sauce, nutritional yeast, herbs, smoked paprika, and salt and pepper. Mix well.

5. In a small bowl, combine the ground flaxseed and water, letting it sit for a few minutes to form a gel-like consistency. Add it to the lentil mixture to help bind it.

6. Transfer the mixture to a greased loaf pan, pressing down gently.

7. For the glaze, mix the ketchup, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and soy sauce in a bowl. Spread over the top of the loaf.

8. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until firm and golden. Let it cool slightly before slicing.

5. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with chopped chives or parsley.

6.

Organic duck is good alternative

Roast duck is an alternative choice for Thanksgiving and can be served with sour cherries, or a ‘la orange. Duck has the same amount of calories as turkey, but contains more essential nutrients like iron and vitamin E. Duck à l’orange is a classic French dish featuring duck served with a sweet and tangy orange sauce. Duck contains no tryptophan so no after-dinner drowsiness.

Valley News staff

It’s possible to get organic and free-range ducks for Thanksgiving dinner. Many specialty grocery stores, local farms, and online retailers offer these options. Here are some ways you can find organic and free-range ducks:

Local farms or farmers’ markets : Many small, family-run farms offer organic and free-range ducks. Visiting a farmers’ market or directly contacting local farms can be a great way to get highquality, ethically raised ducks. Specialty butchers : Some butchers specialize in organic and sustainably raised meats, including ducks. If you’re in a larger city, there may be a butcher shop that stocks such products.

Online retailers: Websites like

Macaroni and Cashew Tahini “Cheeze” (Serves 7)

Ingredients:

• 4 cups dry elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape)

• 1 cup raw cashews (soaked for at least 2 hours or overnight)

• 1/2 cup tahini

and pepper

Instructions:

1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. While the pasta is cooking, combine the soaked cashews, tahini, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, mustard, turmeric, garlic powder, onion powder, and almond milk in a

Organic anksgiving

Worth the Extra Cost?

cheese sauce until well coated.

5. Serve immediately, or for a more indulgent version, bake the mac and cheese at 350°F for 15 minutes, topped with breadcrumbs for a crunchy crust

Turkeys—

If you still need to buy your holiday bird, consider choosing one that has been organically raised. Valley News/Courtesy photo

D’Artagnan, Williams-Sonoma, or Etsy (for local farms) offer freerange and organic duck options. You can check the farm’s certification and practices to ensure that the ducks are truly organic and free-range.

Whole Foods Market or other natural grocers: Some higher-end grocery stores, like Whole Foods, carry organic and ethically raised ducks. You can often place an order in advance for special occasions like Thanksgiving. When looking for organic and free-range ducks, it’s important to verify the product’s certification, as labels like “free-range” and “organic” can vary. Ensure the duck was raised in an environment that supports natural behaviors and has been fed an organic diet without antibiotics or hormones.

Zrinka Peters The Epoch Times

Thanksgiving is here, and maybe your turkey is already thawing in the refrigerator. Please note— if you’re thawing it out on the kitchen counter, putting it in the fridge or a bucket of cold water is safer—you can take a quick look at the USDA’s guidelines for safe thawing.

However, if your style is more “last-minute,” and the bird has yet to be bought, or maybe you’re having a late celebration, consider splurging on an organic turkey. What it offers in both flavor and nutrition just may be worth the extra cost.

Comparing turkey prices in stores this week will probably not raise stress levels as much as it has in recent years. The American Farm Bureau Federation reports that the average cost of a Thanksgiving dinner is down about 6 %

from last year (but still about 25% higher than it was in 2019). The average price of a frozen turkey in August was $1.27/lb, and prices at major retailers currently range from $0.98/lb to $2.69/lb. With reasonably-priced birds readily available, why spend more—often much more—for an organic turkey? A quick search around the Midwest, where I live, found the cheapest organic turkeys at Costco, for $3.49/lb. Whole Foods (via Amazon) is selling 10–12 pound organic birds for $3.99/lb—and the prices go up from there. Organically-raised turkeys shipped from small farms can easily run $125 or more. Which begs the question: “Why pay more?”

Weighing the Costs–Organic Versus Commercial Turkey

One reason is to avoid or at least minimize antibiotic residue resulting from the historically massive use of antibiotics in the commer-

cial meat supply. Public health authorities have sounded the alarm connecting antibiotic residue and antibiotic-resistant bacteria found in meat and other animal products (like milk and eggs), to health problems in humans, including antibiotic resistance. This occurs when certain bacteria no longer respond to the antibiotics which are supposed to kill them.

An April 2018 review published in the journal Molecules discussing antibiotic use in agriculture and its potential effect on human populations noted that “Resistance to antibiotics is an inherent side effect associated with the overuse, abuse, or substantial use of antibiotics.”

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has made efforts in recent years to curb the overuse of antibiotics in agriculture and reduce the overall quantity of see ORGANIC, page B-6

Lentil Loaf

Valley News/Courtesy photo

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. 29 – 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. 29 – 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. 29 – MilVet 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. 29 – 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 semiautobiographical works that explore the boundaries of reality through layered depictions of escapism and romanticized self-perception.

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 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. 29 – Dec. 9 Menifee’s Xreme Light Fight for residents decorating their homes for the Christmas Holidays. Applications for the contest being accepted by the Community Services Department. Judging begins on Dec. 13 with prizes being awarded for five categories. Apply at cityofmenifee.us/specialevents or call 951-723-3880.

Nov. 30 – 5:30- 7:30 p.m. Chabad of Temecula hosts a Menorah Lighting Ceremony to celebrate the di-

versity 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.

Dec. 4 – 5-8 p.m. Military Care Packaging Event at the Corporate Room in Wildomar. 34846 Monte Vista Drive. Partnering with Senator Seyarto’s office and it will also be his Holiday Party and Toy Drive for MilVet. Admission is free but toys are encouraged. Those who wish to pack a military care package are encouraged to RSVP as it will be limited to the first 200 attendees who sign up. Contact www.milvet.org for reservations and information

Dec. 7 – 4-8 p.m.Menifee Christmas Tree Lighting and Community Parade at Mt. San Jacinto College, 28237 Piedra Road. Snow Zone, youth activities, performances, Santa photos and more.

Dec. 12-Jan 5. – Daily Temecula on Ice with state-of-the-art ice rink, rental skates, Bobby skating aid and its own radio station playing the best ice skating music. For questions please email temeculaonice@gmail. com Buy tickets online! $10 to $21.

Dec. 14 – 8 a.m. Breakfast with Santa at the Kay Ceniceros Senior Center, 3 sessions. $12 a plate. Reservations see cityofmenifee.us/ specialevents or call 951-723-3880.

Dec. 15 – 12-4 p.m. MilVet Holidays for Heroes Toy Event for Military/Veteran Families will take place in Temecula. Location pending with required military family registration It will include live music, craft/game vendors, raffles, face painting, resources for military families (County of Riverside Veteran Services), speakers will be Senator Seyarto, Councilwoman Jessica Alexander, and more), photos with Santa, toys, special characters and each child will receive a large bag of gifts from their wishlist.

Dec. 16-20 – 5-8 p.m. Menifee Santa on Wheels will be making neighborhood visits around town. Reservations needed. $40 per 15 minute personalized family visit. Be on the lookout. Contact www.cityof menifee.us/register.. Call 951-7233880 for more informational

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

ONGOING – Riverside Transportation Commission is offering Park and Ride lots to connect with carpools, vanpools and transit systems in Beaumont at 600 E. Sixth Street; in San Jacinto at 501 S. San Jacinto Avenue and in Temecula at Grace Presbyterian Church, 31143 Nicolas Road, open from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. but not on weekends.

ONGOING – Line dancing classes are held Wednesdays from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at Lake Elsinore/Wildomar Elks Lodge, 33700 Mission Trail, in Wildomar across from the Animal Friends of the Valleys. Classes have a DJ with learning levels beginning to intermediate. Have fun and exercise at the same time at $5 per lesson. Contact Joyce Hohenadl at 951-674-2159.

ONGOING – Sun City Civic Association Monthly Square Dance sessions are held Sundays from 1:305 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. 29 – Lake Menifee Women’s Club Menifee Winter 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 – 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 g augustin206@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-the-wheel instruction or a California driver’s permit. Contact 951-723-3880 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 12-step recovery program for anyone suffering from food obsession, overeating, undereating or bulimia, has meetings throughout the U.S. and the world. Contact 781-932-6300, or for local meetings, call 925-321-0170 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 writing-craft discussions; attendees may read up to a five-minute excerpt from their work for feedback/ critique. RSVP at www.dorlandartscolony.com/sunday-scribblers. html

Have a jolly holiday this season with fun Temecula events

TEMECULA – There’s no place like Temecula for the holidays! The City of Temecula’s Community Services Department has a full schedule of free events and offerings to spread holiday cheer to all. Santa’s Arrival Friday, Nov. 29. 6-9 p.m. Make your way to Santa’s cozy cottage located at Pennypickle’s Workshop, 42081 Main Street, as we welcome Mr. Claus to Old Town for the holiday season. Santa will be here Saturdays from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. and

p.m. (Nov. 30 through Dec. 22). For more information, please visit TemeculaCA.gov/Holidays. Holiday Sunset Market Saturday, Nov. 30. 2-6 p.m. Need to find a gift for the holidays or just want to explore a gourmet food court? Join us at the Holiday Sunset Market, hosted by the organizers of the Temecula Sunset Market. The Market will feature a collection of handcrafted and artisan vendors selling holiday themed items, as well as delicious food and drinks. For more information, visit

TemeculaSunsetMarket.com. Christmas Tree Lighting Monday, Dec. 2. 7-8:30 p.m. Are you ready to rock around the Christmas tree? Be sure to join us for the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony starting at 7 pm at the Temecula Duck Pond, 28250 Ynez Road, as we celebrate the magic of the season with festive music, tasty treats, and a visit from Santa Claus. For more information, please visit TemeculaCA.gov/Holidays.

Southern California Damekor presents Glade Jul, an annual concert of beloved Christmas music from Scandinavia, at two different locations this year.

On Saturday, Dec. 21 at 3 p.m., the group will perform at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, 580 Hilltop Dr., Chula Vista, 91910. On Sunday, Dec. 22 at 7 p.m., the performance is at Temecula Music Teacher, 27649 Commerce Center Dr., Tem-

ecula. The program begins with the traditional Lucia procession and features traditional Jul songs from Norway, Sweden and Finland sung mostly in the original language. Many of the songs are sung a cappella and others feature flute, violin, viola, guitar and harp played by talented musicians. New this year is the inclusion of a hammer dulcimer. There is no admission fee. A free will offering will be taken.

FALLBROOK – Fallbrook Music Society presents “A TAKE3 Christmas” with these world-class artists on Sunday, Dec. 15. Back by popular demand, their unmistakable style and infectious joy in music-making extends to their fabulous interpretations of classics such as Ave Maria, Silent Night, O

HOLIDAY from page B-2

Santa’s Electric Light Parade Friday, Dec. 6. 7 p.m. parade start

This event will make spirits bright at the annual Santa’s Electric Light Parade! The parade begins at 7 p.m. sharp, at the intersection of Jefferson Ave & Del Rio Road. Be sure to bring your blankets and chairs as you watch the entries travel south along the parade route into Old Town Temecula. For more information, please visit TemeculaCA.gov/SantaParade. Temecula on Ice Grand Opening Friday, Dec. 13. 5 p.m.

Have an am-ICE-ing time skating in Old Town Temecula with a state-of-the-art ice rink, rental skates, Bobby skating aids, and its own radio station playing the best ice-skating music! Join us for the official Grand Opening in Town Square Park, 41000 Main Street. The rink is open daily Thursday, Dec. 12 through Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. Hours of operation are Sunday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Friday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit TemeculaCA. gov/TemeculaOnIce.

New Year’s Eve Grape Drop

Tuesday, Dec. 31. 6-10 p.m.

Ring in the new year Temeculastyle!

Celebrate 2025 with an East Coast countdown at 9 p.m., featuring Temecula’s first ever drone show! Event will also include live music, food vendors, and kids activities. You won’t want to miss this fun night of excitement for the entire family! For more information, visit TemeculaCA.gov/Holidays.

For information on all upcoming Temecula Community Services Department events, activities, and programs, please visit TemeculaCA.gov/TCSD , and follow @ TemeculaParksandRec on social media for updates.

Find Damekor on Facebook and Instagram.

This is Damekor’s 15th annual Glade Jul program. Damekor, which means “women’s choir,” performs throughout Southern California. For more information about the concert or to inquire about scheduling a performance in the future, contact director, Lynne Bradley at 760-505-8758.

Submitted by Lynne Bradley.

Holy Night and many others. The show starts at 2 p.m. at the Bob Burton Center at Fallbrook High School. Tickets are $20 for adults in advance; $25 day of the show; Children 18 and under are free. For tickets or more information, visit www.fallbrookmusicsociety. org

TAKE3 will be in concert Dec. 15 at the Bob Burton Center in Fallbrook. Valley News/Courtesy photo

Two-time Latin Grammy award-winner

Chiquis to perform at Pala Casino

Chiquis will be performing at Pala Casino on Dec. 8.

PALA - Chiquis will be performing Sunday, Dec. 8 at Pala Casino Spa Golf Resort. Janney Marín, better known as Chiquis, is a dynamic force in the entertainment industry, showcasing her talents as a twotime Latin Grammy award-winning artist, businesswoman, author, and media personality. Her journey to success is marked by remarkable achievements and a relentless drive to inspire and empower others.

In 2013, Chiquis embarked on her solo music career, fulfilling a promise to her late mother, the legendary Jenni Rivera. In less than two years, her debut album, Ahora, soared to the top of the charts, reaching #1 in sales on iTunes and Billboard’s Regional Mexican Albums chart. The album’s immense success was further solidified by its gold certification from the RIAA and multiple top 10 singles dominating national radio airwaves. Her musical prowess continued to shine with subsequent releases, including her second album, Entre Botellas, which reached #1 on the Billboard Regional Mexican Al-

bums chart and featured hit singles “Vas a Volver” and “Horas Extras.” However, it was her third album, Playlist, that earned her the prestigious honor of becoming the first female solo artist to win the Latin Grammy for Best Banda Album in 2020.

Building on her momentum, in 2022 Chiquis received her second Latin Grammy for Best Banda Album with her fourth album, Abeja Reina, reaffirming her status as a trailblazer in the industry. Abeja Reina was also nominated for a Grammy in 2023. That same year, she released two more musical productions, a live concert album Chiquis En Vivo Desde Lunario Ciudad De México and an EP Bee Side, a continuation of her acclaimed Abeja Reina.

The show will be at the Events Center at 6 p.m. Tickets ranging from $69 to $89 are on sale now at the Pala Box Office, www.palacasino.com a nd 1-877-WIN-PALA (1-877-946-7252).

Pala Casino Spa Resort

El Parque

Experience the vibrant spirit of Mexico right here in Fallbrook. We bring you the bold and savory flavors you love. Dive into our mouthwatering tacos bursting with tender meats. From zesty guacamole to cheesy quesadillas, we have something to tantalize every taste bud. Wash it all down with our refreshing beer and wine. Whether you’re dining in or grabbing takeout, let El Parque transport you to the heart of Mexico with every bite. 2659 Reche Road, Fallbrook 760-731-2775

www.facebook.com/elparquestagecoachstop Open Seven Days 10am-7pm

also available. Open 7 days, MonFri 3-9pm & Sat-Sun 12-9pm. Happy Hour every day 3-5pm. 5256 S. Mission Road, Bonsall In the River Village Center 760-631-1944 www.frescorestaurants.com

Nessy Burgers

Craving a delicious burger, look no further than Nessy Burgers. For more than three decades, our handmade and individually weighed fresh 1/2 lb burger patties have been cooked to order on freshbaked sesame seed buns. Topped with juicy jumbo tomatoes, crisp hand-broken iceberg lettuce, premium sliced American cheese, and sliced sweet onions (or grilled onions on request). Don’t forget about our Nessy Sauce, made fresh daily and similar to Thousand Island dressing, but with our signature Nessy twist. By Pala Mesa Market on Old Hwy 395 near I-15 & 76, Fallbrook 760-731-1379

www.nessyburgers.com | nessy@nessyburgers.com Open 7 Days per Week, 7am-7pm

ITALIAN RESTAURANT

MEXICAN

Damekor to present Glade Jul, a Scandinavian Christmas music concert. Valley News/Courtesy photo

Age-proof power: 5 exercises that make sense in your 60s

For some, their 60s may feel like the beginning of old age, but it doesn’t have to. A few choice exercises can help you feel—and act—younger.

Kevin Shelley

The Epoch Times

Aging doesn’t have to be synonymous with a decline in fitness.

Occupational therapist Kevin Shelley shares simple exercises to stay fit and strong from your thirties to your eighties and beyond.

In your 60s? Welcome to the old-age club! While 60 to 75 is considered the younger half of “old age,” the notion can sound crazy—since you still feel so young, healthy, and energetic. However, this decade may give rise to potential chronic disease and its management—and you know what they say about an ounce of prevention. To be more inspired to work out, consider joining an exercise group to counter resistance and create accountability.

Closed-chain compound bodyweight movements with higher intensity are recommended at this age. Tai chi, walking, and bodyweight regimens are good examples of exercise that are low-stress for the joints and well-suited for doing with a group, which helps boost and maintain your emotional and social health. These exercises can help you:

• Improve your balance, which helps prevent falls

Maintain mobility

Improve metabolism

Have a higher quality of life by enabling you to stay active

They work wonders in the clinic—as they will for you. Remember, it’s always good to check with a medical professional when beginning a new fitness plan, especially as we age.

5 exercises to keep you active into your 60s

1. Bear Crawl

The bear crawl leaves you with a strong sense of having really exercised! You’ll be tired out—but in a good way. This is a superb corebuilding exercise that requires some extra space, such as a hallway or backyard. Note: Dogs and cats get excited when their owners crawl at their level, so it’s your choice: Enjoy your furry workout partners, or put them away while you crawl.

Step 1: Start on your hands and knees in a pushup position. Keep your arms straight and the balls of your feet on the floor.

Step 2: Begin the crawl by moving your right hand and left foot forward, then your left hand and right foot forward. Go slowly; take up to 2 seconds for each step.

Step 3: A “step” forward with one hand and one foot counts as 1 repetition. Try to perform 30 steps per set and 3 sets.

Step 4: Feel free to experiment with sets, repetitions, and walking patterns. Play around with the movements and make it your own.

Modifications: Begin by walking on your hands and knees until your body becomes accustomed to the movements.

2. Plank

The plank is a classic corestrengthening exercise. There’s no need to walk the plank when you can perform one in the comfort of your living room.

Step 1: Begin lying face down on the floor, with your feet about 1 foot apart and hands palm down just outside your shoulders, elbows bent back. Push up until your elbows straighten and your shoulders align over your hands. Use your core strength to hold your body in a straight line, like a plank. Keep your head up and look slightly forward.

Step 2: Hold the plank for up to 1 minute. Holding the position for up to 1 minute counts as 1 repetition.

Step 3: Try for 3 repetitions, with 1 minute of rest between them.

Though plank can be challenging to begin with, you will build strength over time.

Modification: Don’t get frustrated if you can’t do a plank for very long; they are surprisingly challenging, especially at first. Temporarily placing your knees on the floor can give you a quick break, but be sure to return to the plank as soon as you catch your breath.

3. Burpees If you know anything about burpees, you may wonder why they are included in a workout for people in their 60s or beyond.

Health Right Here: What

They can certainly be challenging! However, the modifications I’ve included will make them more accessible if you find them too tough at first.

Step 1: Start standing upright with your feet shoulder-width apart and your hands by your sides.

Step 2: Squat down and move into a pushup position.

Step 3: Complete a full pushup, step close to your hands one foot at a time, then stand back up.

Step 4: As you return to standing, add a small “hop” to increase the intensity.

Step 5: Moving from standing into a pushup and back to standing counts as 1 repetition. Try to complete 3 sets of 12 repetitions.

Modifications: If regular pushups are too challenging, you can modify them by placing your knees on the floor. Skip the hop at the end if it is too strenuous.

If your back or knees feel uncomfortable during the movements, use a chair or countertop to help return to standing.

4. Farmer’s Carry Farmer’s carry is one of the most effective exercises to strengthen the spine and core since it involves sustained management of weighted resistance.

Note: You’ll need a spacious area for this exercise. You can walk through the house or outdoors to increase walking distances.

Step 1: Start standing, holding a weight in both hands. Using 2 pounds of resistance is good to start with. Maintain an upright posture, and activate your shoulder muscles to keep the extra weight from drawing them down.

Step 2: Slowly walk through your home or outdoors.

Step 3: Try to perform this exercise for at least 2 minutes. Try to perform 3 sets of 2 minutes each. This activity has a lot of variability in task tolerance, so feel free to experiment with times and weights to tailor the exercise to your liking.

Modification: You can start with 1-pound weights if needed. If holding onto the weights is too challenging, you can use cuff weights that fasten to your wrists.

The plank is a classic core-strengthening exercise.

5. Thread the Needle

Thread the needle’s plank-like basic position builds and strengthens core muscles while providing shoulder and spine mobility. Like the bear crawl, this exercise incites playfulness in your pets, so take care.

Step 1: Start on all fours on the floor with your arms straight, knees directly below your hips, and your back in a straight, neutral position.

Step 2: Keeping your left hand on the floor, sweep your right arm toward the ceiling, turning your head to follow the hand as it moves. Hold for 3 seconds.

Step 3: Bring your arm back down and slide it underneath your body toward the left until your right shoulder touches the ground.

Hold for 3 seconds. Step 4: Return to the all-fours position and then repeat. Do 10 repetitions. Repeat on the other side.

Modification: If your arm doesn’t go up very high, lift it as far as is comfortable. It’s the same for moving the arm underneath; just go as far as you can. This combination of exercises can help you live your 60s to the fullest and prepare you to enter “old” age—or, shall we say, “bold” age. Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. Epoch Health welcomes professional discussion and friendly debate.

to expect with an abdominal aortic aneurysm ultrasound screening

Devin Zarkowsky MD FACS

Special to Valley News

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a serious condition that occurs when the large blood vessel bringing blood from the heart to the body called the aorta weakens and bulges. If left untreated, an AAA can rupture, leading to life-threatening internal bleeding. Therefore, early detection is critical, and ultrasound screening has become a standard method for diagnosing AAAs, particularly in high-risk populations such as older adults and smokers.

Ultrasound screening for abdominal aortic aneurysm

Ultrasound screening for AAA is a non-invasive, cost-effective, and reliable method offered here in Fallbrook for detecting aneurysms before they rupture. It

Valley News/Courtesy photo involves using high-frequency sound waves to create an image of the aorta and measure its diameter. A diagnosis of AAA is made when the diameter of the abdominal aorta is 3 cm or larger. Individuals with an aneurysm size of 5.5 cm or more are typically considered for surgery to prevent rupture.

This chart displays AAA mortality over 13 years in patients screened (blue dashes) compared to patients not screened (red line) for AAA.

Valley News/Thompson SG et

All

The ultrasound procedure for AAA screening is non-invasive. A patient lays on their back while gel is applied to the abdomen to help the ultrasound device make better contact with the skin. The technician or doctor then uses the ultrasound probe to visualize the aorta. The procedure usually takes about 15-30 minutes and is safe for most patients, including those with other health conditions.

The Multicenter AAA Screening Study (MASS)

T he Multicenter Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening Study (MASS) is one of the most significant research efforts evaluating the effectiveness of AAA screening. This large-scale, multicenter study was conducted to assess the outcomes of routine ultrasound screening for AAA in older adults. The study primarily focused on

men aged 65-75, as they are at the highest risk for AAA due to the higher prevalence of the condition in this group. The MASS study demonstrated that routine screening for AAA significantly improves survival by preventing AAA rupture. Participants who underwent screening had lower rates of AAA-related death compared to those who did not receive screening. The results highlighted the importance of early detection in preventing the potentially fatal consequences of an undiagnosed AAA. The study concluded that screening could reduce AAA-related mortality by up to 50%, depending on the frequency of surveillance and intervention strategies.

Medicare Part B vs. Medicare Part C: AAA Screening Benefits Medicare offers several plans to

provide coverage for healthcare services. When it comes to AAA screening, Medicare Part B and Part C have distinct differences.

1. Medicare Part B: This part of Medicare covers medically necessary services such as doctor visits, outpatient care, and certain preventive services. AAA screening is covered under Medicare Part B for individuals who meet specific criteria. For example, men aged 65-75 who have ever smoked are eligible for a one-time ultrasound screening, typically without any out-of-pocket cost. For those who do not smoke but have risk factors such as a family history of AAA, screening may also be covered with a doctor’s referral.

2. Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage): Medicare Part C, see AAA, page B-5

Valley News/Mikhail Nilov photo

An ultrasound image of an abdominal aortic aneurysm.

HEALTH

Southwest Healthcare Rancho Springs Hospital & Inland Valley Hospital introduces new, digital resuscitation training and education

The innovative program verifies CPR expertise to help increase cardiac

MURRIETA — Patients who suffer a cardiac arrest must receive the highest quality CPR possible, which is known to be the cornerstone of survival.

More than 209,000 in-hospital cardiac arrests occur annually in the U.S. with survival rates at about 26% from adult in-hospital cardiac arrest. For decades, the CPR training standard for healthcare providers has been Basic Life Support with a requirement for participants to renew their course completion card every two years. However, studies show CPR skills can decay within three to six months following this training. Southwest Healthcare Rancho Springs Hospital in Murrieta and Inland Valley Hospital in Wildomar, recognizes the importance of high-quality CPR competence and performance to save more lives. Recently, SWH Rancho Springs and Inland Valley Hospital’s introduced Resuscitation Qu ality Improvement (RQI), a program co-developed by the American Heart Association and Laerdal Medical, to help clinicians achieve, master, and sustain high-quality CPR skills and competence, resulting in improved patient outcomes.

The hospital’s RQI program adoption demonstrates its continued, longstanding commitment to providing a positive, proactive and patient-centered experience and leveraging innovative solutions to advance patient care and prepare clinicians to deliver that care. Numerous clinicians are enrolled in Basic Life Support, Advanced Life Support and Pediatric Advanced Life Support course instruction, which is delivered through the hospital’s RQI Simulation Stations. The stations are positioned in centralized locations at both hospital campuses, affording learners with greater flexibility and 24/7 access to resuscitation training and education.

“Our hospitals are committed to providing the highest quality of care and adopting the Resuscitation Quality Improvement program reflects this dedication,” said Jared Giles, CEO of SWH Rancho Springs and Inland Valley Hospitals. “By implementing RQI, we are ensuring that our healthcare professionals have the opportunity to regularly refresh and hone their life-saving skills using a program shown to improve the quality of resuscitation efforts, which positively impacts patient outcomes. Ultimately, our goal is to empower our teams with the best tools and training possible — fostering a culture of excellence in patent care across our hospital system.”

RQI is self-directed, simulation-based learning and performance provided through cognitive

also known as Medicare Advantage, is an alternative to traditional Medicare that is offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. Part C plans often cover the same services as Part A and Part B, including AAA screening, but with additional benefits such as vision, dental, and hearing coverage. Some Medicare Advantage plans may also offer more comprehensive coverage for screenings or have different eligibility requirements. However, costs and coverage may vary based on the insurer.

While Medicare Part B offers standard coverage for AAA screening, Medicare Part C may offer additional benefits and more flexible options depending on the specific plan.

2024 open enrollment period

The 2024 Medicare Open Enrollment Period runs from October 15 to December 7. During this time, individuals eligible for Medicare can make changes to their coverage, including switching from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan or vice versa. It’s an ideal time for beneficiaries to review their current health needs, such as the need for AAA screening, and consider whether switching to a Medicare Advantage plan might provide

arrest survival

and hands-on CPR quality improvement sessions that measure a nd verify competence. The program employs a “low-dose, high-frequency” model requiring healthcare providers to complete course assignments in short sessions every quarter.

In 2018, the American Heart Association, the world’s leading voluntary organization dedicated to a world of longer, healthier lives for all, and Laerdal Medical, one of the world leaders in medical simulation and resuscitation training, called for a new standard of care by shifting resuscitation practice from training once every two years to quarterly instruction to verify CPR competence for healthcare professionals. The RQI program is delivered by RQI Partners, a partnership between and service provider for the Association and Laerdal.

We are excited Southwest Healthcare Rancho Springs Hospital and Inland Valley Hospital have answered the call and are fully embracing the RQI program and working with the American Heart Association, Laerdal Medical and RQI Partners to shift to a new standard of resuscitation care – competence,” said Russell Griffin, RQI Partners’ senior vice president of programs and marketing. “These hospitals have made high-quality CPR delivery a priority and joins our commitment to ensuring all healthcare

better coverage for their healthcare needs.

For example, those considering AAA screening may want to check whether their Medicare Advantage plan offers coverage for additional preventive services or has a lower cost-sharing requirement for screenings compared to traditional Medicare.

Ultrasound screening for abdominal aortic aneurysm is an i mportant preventive tool for detecting aneurysms before they rupture, which significantly improves survival. The Multicenter AAA Screening Study provided compelling evidence that routine screening can save lives, particularly among high-risk populations. Medicare Part B provides coverage for AAA screening, while Medicare Part C may not.

The 2024 Medicare Open Enrollment Period is an opportunity for folks i n Fallbrook and the Temecula Valley to explore their options and ensure they are enrolled in the plan that best meets their healthcare needs.

Dr. Zarkowsky is dedicated to improving your veins and arteries, California Vascular Health Specialists offers advanced, officebased vascular treatments. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, go to CaliforniaCascularHealthSpecialists.com or call 858-567-1450.

providers in every community are competent and confident in their resuscitation skills to help save more lives from cardiac arrest.”

To learn more about the RQI program and the value it brings to hospitals, patient care and local communities, visit heart. org, www.laerdal.com and www. rqipartners.com.

About Southwest Healthcare Rancho Springs Hospital

This campus of Southwest Healthcare features the largest Family Birth Center in the region and recognized by US News and World Report and a Best in the Nation Hospital for

Maternity Care which includes Rady Children’s Level III NICU, the only hospital in the region to offer pediatric ER Services from Rady Children’s, is an Advanced Certified Primary Stroke Center, and features the da Vinci Robotic Xi Surgical System Center of Excellence. The hospital is also an award-winning recipient of US News & World Report Excellence in COPD, Stroke, and Kidney Failure services. www.swhRanchoSprings.com

About Southwest Healthcare Inland Valley Hospital

This campus of Southwest Healthcare is the only hospital in

the region to offer Level II Trauma Services, an Advanced Certified Primary Stroke Center, the region’s only Total Joint Center now with advanced certification from the Joint Commission and is a nationally recognized center for weight-loss surgery by the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program The hospital is also an award-winning recipient of US News & World Report Excellence in COPD, Stroke, and Kidney Failure services. www. swhInlandValley.com

Nursing staff at Inland Valley Hospital. Valley News/Courtesy photo

Landscaping and gardening tips for December in Southern California

December in Southern California might not be as frigid as other parts of the country, but it still brings cooler temperatures and shorter days. While this may seem like a time to take a break from your garden, it’s actually the perfect time to prepare your yard for the coming year. With the right strategies, you can keep your landscape looking vibrant and ensure a thriving garden come spring. Here are some expert tips tailored to our unique Southern California climate:

1. Focus on winter pruning Fruit trees: This is the ideal time to prune deciduous fruit trees such as apples, peaches, and plums. Remove dead or diseased branches and shape the tree for optimal growth.

Roses: Cut back hybrid tea roses and floribundas by about half to encourage new growth and blooms in spring.

Ornamentals: Trim back perennials like lavender and salvia to maintain their shape and promote healthy regrowth.

2. Plant cool-season vegetables

December is perfect for planting cool-season crops that thrive in the mild winter weather. Consider these vegetables for your garden:

Leafy greens: Lettuce, spinach, kale, and Swiss chard grow exceptionally well.

Root vegetables: Carrots, radishes, beets, and onions can be direct-seeded into the soil.

Brassicas: Broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage thrive in the cooler temperatures.

Ensure your soil is well-drained and enriched with compost to give your crops a strong start.

3. Mulch and protect your plants

Insulate Soil: Apply a 2–3 inch layer of organic mulch around your plants to regulate soil temperature and retain moisture.

Frost protection: Cover frostsensitive plants like citrus trees and succulents with lightweight

fabric or burlap during especially cold nights.

4. Water wisely

While rainfall often increases in December, it’s important to monitor your garden’s water needs:

Reduce irrigation: Shorter days and cooler temperatures mean plants need less water.

Check moisture levels: Use a moisture meter or simply dig a few inches into the soil to ensure it’s not overly dry or waterlogged.

5. Add seasonal color

Brighten up your landscape with winter-friendly flowers: Pansies and violas: These colorful blooms thrive in cool weather and can last into spring.

Snapdragons and cyclamen:

Add height and vibrant hues to your garden beds or containers.

California natives: Consider plants like manzanita or ceanothus, which are well-adapted to the region and provide natural beauty.

6. Prepare for spring

Soil testing: Test your soil’s pH and nutrient levels. Amend as needed with organic fertilizers or soil conditioners.

Weed control: Pull weeds now before they take hold and spread in spring.

Answers for puzzle on page B-2

onions can be direct-seeded into the soil.

Tool maintenance: Clean, sharpen, and oil your gardening tools to ensure they’re ready for heavy use in the new year.

7. Plan for rainwater harvest-

ing With the possibility of winter rains, it’s a great time to install or check your rain barrels and drainage systems. Use collected rainwater to irrigate your plants during dry spells.

8. Celebrate the holidays with greenery

Bring some of your garden indoors: Natural decor: Use pinecones, holly branches, or eucalyptus clippings to create festive wreaths or centerpieces.

Living gifts: Pot up succulents or herbs like rosemary for ecofriendly, thoughtful presents.

Final thoughts

December is not just a time for celebrating the holidays; it’s also

The dangers of gas leaks

Contributor

As temperatures cool down, home heating use goes up—and firefighters respond to more reports of gas inside structures. It’s important for homeowners and renters to inspect their homeheating appliances and perform any maintenance necessary to avoid any health or safety hazards. If you smell gas in your home or your carbon monoxide detector goes off, immediately evacuate the house and call 9-1-1.

Cold fronts are prompting people to turn on their heaters and furnaces for the first time in months. This time of year, fire departments respond increasingly to calls of “odor of gas inside” and gas leaks. Heaters have not been used in months. Heating appliances should be serviced annually to keep them operating safely and efficiently. A licensed heating contractor or Southern California Gas Co. representative can provide this service for you.

Not having an annual maintenance inspection on gas appliances could result in exposure

antibiotics administered, and many farms have taken steps in that direction. However, in buying an organic turkey (which carries the USDA-Organic seal), you can rest assured that your Thanksgiving dinner does not come with a side of antibiotic residue.

You’re likely getting a more nutritious bird, too. When we eat any poultry, we are also consuming what that bird ate, and a higher quality diet will naturally result in more nutritious meat. Organicallyraised turkeys are fed a diet of organic, non-GMO feed, no animal by-products, and are allowed access to the outdoors—to spend

to carbon monoxide, which can cause nausea, drowsiness, flu-like symptoms and even death. Does your residence have a carbon monoxide detector installed? Check with your local fire department for advice on installing one.

Here are a few tips for a safe, warm, and energy-efficient winter:

• Have natural gas furnaces checked at least once a year by a licensed heating contractor or Southern California Gas Co. representative.

• Vacuum and clean regularly in and around the furnace, particularly around the burner compartment to prevent a build-up of dust and lint.

• Most forced-air units have a filter that cleans the air before heating and circulating it throughout the home. Check furnace filters every month during the heating season and clean or replace the filter when necessary.

• When installing a new or cleaned furnace filter, be sure to reinstall the front panel door of the furnace properly so it fits snugly; never operate the furnace without the front-panel door properly in place because doing so may cre-

time doing what turkeys naturally do— roam and forage for insects, clover, and other nutritious tidbits.

This improved diet and lifestyle results in meat that is higher in Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E than conventionally raised birds.

The flavor just might be better, too. Granted, flavor is subjective and can depend on a host of factors including seasonings and cooking methods. But organic turkeys are often thought to have a richer flavor that’s a result not only of the feed they are raised on but also because the birds have more opportunity to move freely and use their muscles the way nature intended.

And a final note—organically-

a month to nurture your garden and prepare for the new year. By following these landscaping and gardening tips, you’ll ensure a lush and vibrant outdoor space, even in the heart of winter.

Embrace the unique opportunities that Southern California’s mild winters provide and enjoy the beauty of your garden all season long.

ate the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

• Check the appearance of the flame. If the flame is yellow, large and unsteady, the furnace needs to be inspected immediately by a licensed professional to have the condition corrected.

• Using an unvented gas heater in your home is dangerous and a violation of the California Health and Safety Code.

• Never use your oven, range or outdoor barbecue to heat your home because these appliances are not designed for this purpose. It’s important to never store items in, on or around the appliance that can obstruct airflow. Again, the best advice is to contact a licensed qualified heating contractor or Southern California Gas Co. representative to inspect your furnace.

Sam DiGiovanna is a fire service veteran of over 36 years. He started with the Los Angeles County Fire Department, served as fire chief at the Monrovia Fire Department and currently serves as chief at the Verdugo Fire Academy in Glendale.

raised turkeys live a life that would make their conventionally-raised cousins cluck with envy. According to the USDA’s Organic Livestock Requirements, organically raised animals must have access to the outdoors, space for exercise, shade, fresh air, clean drinking water, and direct sunlight. It’s an approach that respects the animals’ basic needs and natural behaviors.

Maybe this is the year to get the sweet potatoes, green beans, and pie on sale—and spend a little more on an organic bird. Copyright 2024 -The Epoch Times. Used by permission. To subscribe, go to subscribe. theepochtimes.com.

Valley News/Pixabay photo

In the winter, cut back hybrid tea roses and floribundas by about half to encourage new growth and blooms in spring.

Cool season vegetables like carrots, radishes, beets, and

Cool season leafy greens like lettuce, spinach, kale, and Swiss chard grow exceptionally well.

For holiday gifts, pot up succulents or herbs like rosemary for ecofriendly, thoughtful presents.

Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

H.A.L.O. serves up food and friendship

Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians Special to Valley News

H.A.L.O., which stands for Helping and Loving Others, began in 2003 when Linda Resvaloso’s late husband told her that people would wait in line for her popovers. With the help of family members, the Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians Tribal member decided to launch her own business.

She is grateful to have many family members involved with set up, prepping food, cooking and cashiering. “My sons Jesse, Charles and Mingo really know every part of the business, along with their wives Jennifer and Dreena,” Resvaloso said. “The grandchildren are also involved. Bella, Sofia, Ushla, Evie, Waniicha, Domingo, Benny, Johnathan and Ano help fill the orders, stock and cashier.”

With lots of repeat customers for their Indian tacos, popovers, burritos, regular tacos, frybread and fresh salsa, having the whole family help works out very well.

But the company is about so much more than delicious food. “If a person needs help raising money for uniforms, a funeral, lights for their church, or any type of fundraiser, we are always willing to help out,” Resvaloso said. “If someone is sick,

I will make chicken soup with frybread and drop it off at their house.”

They also regularly give back to the community by teaching cooking classes. H.A.L.O. was a special gue st at a recent Soboba TANF workshop during November’s Native American Heritage Month events. Resvaloso recently taught a class on how to cook popovers in Palm Springs, hosted by the Agua Caliente Cultural Preservation Committee.

“I started out cooking for funerals and events at a young age with Helen Jose from Torres Martinez Reservation,” she said. “She instilled in me that you are always to do for all people and respect your elders. It’s something that I have passed down to my family.”

Resvaloso, who has been the Assistant Store Manager at Roadrunner Express since July 2023, works there Monday through Friday. “We mostly cook on the weekends for events throughout the community,” she said.

Prior to the opening of the convenience store and gas station, she worked in Cash Operations at various casinos, including Soboba, for 25 years.

H.A.L.O. will be part of the next Soboba Casino Resort Food Truck Fiesta. Resvaloso is looking for-

share with the community.

ward to sharing her cooking with the many people that come from near and far to enjoy good food and socializing with friends and family.

Onyx Paving given Grand Avenue sidewalk improvements contract

Joe Naiman Special to Valley News

The Riverside County Board of Supervisors approved a construction contract with Onyx Paving Company, Inc., for sidewalk improvements to Grand Avenue in Lakeland Village.

The supervisors voted 5-0 November 5 to award the Anaheim company a $1,747,000 contract for the work. The project will construct approximately 2,300 linear feet of sidewalk along the south side of Grand Avenue between Adelfa Street and Blackwell Boulevard and 1,300 linear feet along the north side of Grand Avenue between Brechtel Street and Corydon Road. The sidewalks will fill existing gaps on Grand Avenue.

The work will also include construction of concrete curb and gutter, cross gutter, driveways, and asphalt concrete dike. Safety features will include roadside signs, traffic stripes, thermoplastic crosswalks and pavement markings, and installation of yellow back plates for the existing traffic signal heads at the intersection of Grand Avenue and Blackwell Boulevard. The improvements will also provide an all-weather pedestrian pathway meeting American with Disabilities Act standards.

The two sidewalk segments were combined as one project to eliminate multiple bidding and administrative

procedures and to seek more favorable proposed costs associated with larger bid quantities. A 5-0 Board of Supervisors vote July 30 authorized the advertisement for bids, approved the plans and specifications, set a bid opening date of August 21, and found the project categorically exempt from California Environmental Quality Act review.

The bid package was structured with two base bids, one for the sidewalk improvements and associated work from Adelfa Street to Blackwell Boulevard and one for the segment between Brechtel Street and Corydon Road. Each base bid had an additive alternative for Frontier Communications facility adjustments which would become part of the contract if Frontier Communications accepted the successful bidder ’s price.

During the advertisement period an addendum was issued to all registered plan holders to clarify and modify the approved contract documents. The modifications in the addendum did not increase the scope of the project, so the estimated cost of $1,911,775 was not changed. The addendum was approved by the county supervisors as part of the November 5 vote.

Three bids were submitted. Onyx Paving Company had a total bid of $1,747,000 including $13,000 for the Frontier Communications manhole adjustments, and the utility accepted both additive alternative

prices. LC Paving and Sealing, which is based in San Marcos, had the second-lowest bid at $1,761,500.

Frontier Communications will reimburse the county for the adjustment of the five manholes. The director of the county’s Transportation Department has the authority to sign reimbursement agreements of up to $100,000 without Board of Supervisors approval, so the reimbursement agreement will be approved administratively.

The supervisors’ motion approved a total budget of $3,609,000 including past and future expenditures for surveying, design, environmental expenses, and right-of-way acquisition. The future expenses will also include engineering and inspection, surveying, and a 10% construction contingency which will allow for change orders without the need to return to the Board of Supervisors for approval. A combination of American Rescue Plan Act funding, gas tax revenue, Highway User Tax Account revenue derived from the sales tax on gasoline, Unincorporated Communities Initiative funding, and the reimbursement from Frontier will provide the money for the project.

The work is scheduled to begin in March 2025 and will be phased to keep the road open during construction as much as possible. Completion of the work is expected in June 2025.

Regional U.S. Small Business Administration district office seeks nominations for Small Business Week awards

INLAND EMPIRE - The SBA Orange County/Inland Empire District Office is looking to honor the brightest and best small businesses in Orange, Riverside and San Bernardino counties.

Nominees must demonstrate success in business as well as contributions to their local communities. District level winners are honored locally during National Small Business Week in May 2025. Categories for awards include

Community Excellence in Ed Award, Woman-Owned Small Business of the Year, Family-Owned Business of the Year, Micro-Entrepreneur of the Year, Veteran SMall Bus iness Champion of the Year, and Young Entrepreneur of the Year where a business owner must be under 40 years of age. Awards for Small Business Person of the Year and Exporter of the Year go on to the national level of competition. Detailed criteria for the nomina-

tions and submission information can be found online at https://www. sba.gov/district/orange-county-inland-empire/orange-county-inlandempire-district-office-awards. The deadline for nominations is 1 p.m. on Dec. 5.

Contact Sylvia Gutierrez for local nomination forms at sylvia.gutierrez@sba.gov

Submitted by SBA Orange County/Inland Empire District Office.

Helping and Loving Others is the goal of Linda Resvaloso and her team as they cook up delicious food to

Valley News/Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians photo

OPINION

Thankful, despite it all

Julie Reeder Publisher

If you’re reading this, I want you to know how thankful I am for you. There are some years when I feel more gratitude than others, and the last three years – since the pandemic turned life upside down and almost cost us our business – have been some of the hardest in our 28 years. There have been more than a few days when I’ve seriously thought about throwing in the towel. But I love what we do, and I love the people I am privileged to work alongside every day. They, along with my family and the grace of God keep me going.

Letter to the editor

Dear colleagues,

Effective age regression interventions hold the potential to not only alleviate but also prevent diseases associated with aging. This groundbreaking assertion has garnered the endorsement of the majority within the scientific community who increasingly view aging not as a disease per se, but as the primary catalyst/cause for nearly all age-related diseases. Diseases caused by aging represent a staggering 85% of all diseases that plague humanity. The pharmaceutical industry is acutely aware of this catastrophically negative, financial inevitability. Although this is recognized as an inevitability it can and is being dramatically delayed through regulatory obstruction.

Approximately 45% of the FDA’s total budget comes from user fees paid by biotechs and pharmaceutical companies. These fees are collected for various regulatory oversight activities, including the approval processes for new drugs, generic drugs,

I am deeply thankful for my incredible employees, who are the backbone of our operation. I’m especially grateful for Tony Campbell and Brian Briggs, who are out covering breaking news at all hours. Their flexibility and dedication are key to keeping us going.

As I write this, Lucette, Forest, and Karina worked tirelessly over the weekend, and Josephine and Cindy worked ahead to ensure we could deliver Thanksgiving papers early. Tony Ault, Diane Rhodes, Diane Sieker, JP, Brian, Shane, Elizabeth, and Joe have all gone above and beyond to ensure their stories and photos were ready in time. Jenna, Malina, and Samantha Cokeley handled the office and legals, and Samantha Gorman provided beautiful graphics. Nathalie Taylor, Cindy Custer and Mary Patz are always so helpful as well. Everyone’s hard work and commitment embody the sense of purpose that drives all of us.

We aren’t just turning out widgets – we’re documenting our community’s history. We cover nonprofits, schools, hard news, planning groups, Chambers, theaters, agencies, and more because having an informed and connected

biologics, biosimilars, and medical devices. Specifically, 75% of the funding for human drug regulatory activities at the FDA is derived from these user fees.

This financial structure creates a significant dependency of the FDA on these fees. The reliance on user fees means that a substantial portion of the FDA’s operational budget is directly tied to the industry it regulates. This dependency can potentially influence the agency’s priorities and decisions, as it must maintain a steady flow of these fees to sustain its regulatory functions and meet performance goals.

The arrangement, established and expanded through acts like the Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA), was intended to expedite the drug approval process, but it also raises concerns about the balance between ensuring public safety and catering to the financial interests of the pharmaceutical industry.

This situation is further complicated by the well-trodden path of FDA senior management transi-

citizenry is vital. But our work wouldn’t matter without you – our readers. If no one subscribed, picked up a copy, or clicked through our online articles, it would all be in vain. There’d be no reason to document our community’s achievements, cheer on our students and nonprofits, or shine a light on both triumphs and challenges. When we expose corruption or celebrate first responders, it’s you – the readers –who make it matter. Without you, we’d be left with little more than social media rants and accusations, but no audience or deeper understanding. It’s a full circle: we provide valuable information to our readers, our readers support us and our advertisers, and our advertisers support us and make everything we do possible. And I am so thankful for our advertisers. Businesses like Pala Resort and Casino, Pala Mesa, and Chairman Smith are cornerstones of our community. Pala provides live entertainment, amazing dining, and gaming while also supporting our work. Realtors like Chris and Lisa Hasvold at Coldwell Banker, Ken and Sharon at Compass, Tim Kirk at Epic

tioning to high-paying roles within the pharmaceutical industry they once regulated. Such movements raise critical questions about the objectivity and integrity of regulatory decisions, especially when those decisions might affect future employment opportunities in the industry.

Simply stated, the FDA is in large part beholden to the pharmaceutical industry for both financial support and career advancement of the employees. How unbiased and effective are you as a regulator when you are talking to your future employer? One who will be paying you many multiples of your current salary.

Because of this incestuous codependance the FDA is now compromised both from a regulatory perspective and an ethical one. Real conflicts of interest currently color their decisions on which drugs become available or are denied to the general population.

Currently, as you read this, the FDA has been actively preventing Spectrum’s distribution

Realty, and Community Realty keep us going strong. Dentists like Dr. Colby at Village Dentist and Berry-Bell and Hall Mortuary, who’ve advertised with us for over 25 years, make it possible to cover our community in such depth every week, giving us all a sense of pride in our community.

We have over 150 advertisers, and while I can’t name you all here, please know how much you mean to us.

If we want to preserve a fullservice community where we don’t have to travel out of town for every little thing, we must continue to support our local realtors, stores, and professionals. They give back to our community in so many ways.

I’m also deeply thankful for my family, who always steps up to help, and for my friends, including those who have invested, donated or lent us money over the last two years. They really saved the day.

Michael and Barbara Sullivan, Paul and Paula Herron, Valerie Thruelsen, Ken Follis, the Kurans, the Luomas, Catherine Sousa, and Roy Moosa. Even my loan sharks and hard-money lenders, who – despite choking us with outrageously high interest rates – helped us stay

of fully audited and accredited plasma from healthy sex-identified 18-25-year-old donors (yFFP®) outside of Texas since March 25, 2019, a highly effective and quantumly active age regressive therapeutic that has been legally approved for medical use since 1938. This therapeutic holds the potential to displace a large percentage of drugs currently in the marketplace and already in development for diseases related to aging. This represents a real threat to investors, the pharmaceutical industry, and the FDA. We possess a treasure trove of FDA documentation and communications that exposes what amounts to a criminal conspiracy to prevent the distribution of this approved, effective, and annually documented for a quarter-century to be extraordinarily safe, therapeutic.

The implications of these findings are vast, not just for the field of gerontology and age-regression, but for public health at large. Medicare is a few years away from

A message from Chuck Washington, District 3 County Supervisor

Dear Third District Resident,

As we step into November, let’s take a moment to reflect on those who have shaped our lives. This month, we celebrate not only our loved ones but also the broader community that has supported and raised us. I want to extend

my heartfelt thanks to my family, my team, my colleagues, and the entire Riverside County community. Your unwavering support, commitment, and belief in the work we’re doing together have been vital to our success.

As we enter this season of thank-

fulness, I also want to honor our veterans, who have served with incredible courage and dedication. Their sacrifices have paved the way for many, and this month, we express our deepest gratitude for their service.

November also brings Small

Business Saturday, a day dedicated to supporting the heart of our local communities—our small businesses. Whether you’re shopping for the holidays or simply looking to support your neighborhood, I encourage you to shop small on November 30.

The successful big event which made no money

Many entities would be disappointed if they hosted an event which didn’t generate revenues for them. Because disappointment requires not meeting expectations and the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club didn’t expect to make money from the Breeders’ Cup that event was successful even though it didn’t make money for the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club itself.

The Santa Anita Park and Los Alamitos Race Course tracks in Southern California are privately owned by for-profit corporations.

The Del Mar Thoroughbred Club is a nonprofit corporation and leases the San Diego County Fairgrounds from the 22nd District Agricultural Association, which is part of the California Department of Food and Agriculture. During the Del Mar fall and summer meets the employees and successful bettors are paid as is the state’s share

of the betting handle, and the average purse for finishing positions is among the highest in the nation, but any net revenues are allocated to capital accounts rather than to Del Mar Thoroughbred Club stockholders.

The net revenues thus pay for facilities improvements. That includes offices and other rooms used solely by the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club. Improvements may also be made to the grandstands and to barns, which are used for the San Diego County Fair as well as for the horse racing meets. The county fair also tends to have net revenues so improvements to facilities not prioritized by the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club such as the Del Mar Arena which is not used at all for horse racing (although it is sometimes rented for other equestrian activities) or the fair vendor exhibit halls which are used for parking during horse racing days can be funded through county fair proceeds which don’t

need to be expended on facilities improved from horse racing net revenues.

The facilities improvements themselves are not funded at taxpayer expense. Because approval from the 22nd District Agricultural Association board is required, staff time is needed to process those actions, although that is also true for the horse racing lease agreement itself. The City of Del Mar has no land use authority for the state-owned fairgrounds but may provide input, as may surrounding cities, and the staff expense for that input is not reimbursed. The construction itself, however, is privately funded.

The Del Mar Thoroughbred Club has four main sources of revenue: betting handle, attendance admission, parking charges, and advertising. (The fairgrounds issued the concession contract to Premier Food Services, so the horse races don’t generate any money from concession sales.)

afloat when we had no hard assets to leverage and receivables were slow. Even they have my gratitude. Over the past year, I’ve worked hard to raise the funds we need to move forward in an expanding digital world. I’m happy to share that we’ve successfully raised more than half of what’s needed. While we still have a way to go, I’m optimistic about what’s to come. We’re building expanded online capacity, growing our work with interns through our nonprofit, and increasing our video coverage in 2025.

Yes, it has been a crazy hard time. But this week, our papers will once again be printed and distributed to thousands of homes. In just a couple of weeks, the longawaited sourcebook will finally be released, showcasing the strength and beauty of the Fallbrook/Bonsall community. We are starting on our other magazines, building new websites, expanding digital services to our advertisers, and continuing to evolve and serve with more gratitude than ever. Thank you for being part of this journey with us. Your support continues to mean everything. Happy Thanksgiving.

running out of funding. Effective age regression therapies can play a large role in resolving this looming healthcare disaster while allowing people to live more fulfilling lives. The conflict of interest inherent in the current FDA approval process is a fundamental problem, baked into the structure of the system by controlling legislation. This dependency on user fees from the biopharmaceutical industry undermines the integrity of regulatory oversight, potentially compromising the health and well-being of all Americans.

It is crucial that these conflicts of interest are brought to light and addressed, to ensure that the health and well-being of all citizens are prioritized over regulatory selfpreservation and pharmaceutical industry profits.

Sincerely,

Tom Casey

Chairman, Chief Executive Officer Spectrum Plasma

On behalf of myself and my Third District team, I wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving!

Chuck Washington Riverside County District Supervisor

Advertising is for the entire meet rather than for one day so for any given day handle, attendance, and parking are the main sources of Del Mar Thoroughbred Club revenue.

The Del Mar Thoroughbred Club receives none of the three sources of day revenue during the Breeders’ Cup. The facility is rented to the Breeders’ Cup organization which receives the handle, attendance, and parking revenue.

Even the rent money the Breeders’ Cup organization pays doesn’t give the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club itself any revenue. Because the money would be used for facility improvements anyway the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club has the Breeders’ Cup organization make the rent payment directly to the 22nd District Agricultural Association. Indirectly the Breeders’ Cup provides some revenue for the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club. The California Horse Racing Board

gives the Del Mar fall meet an extra week if the Breeders’ Cup is in Del Mar that year, and the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club receives the daily revenues from the week’s other days including some from those who traveled for the Breeders’ Cup. The Breeders’ Cup also showcases Del Mar and may attract visitors to future meets. Hotels, restaurants, and other businesses in Del Mar and surrounding communities also have financial benefits from the Breeders’ Cup, and taxes on that spending create revenue for the municipal governments. The figures for the 2024 Breeders’ Cup include a two-day attendance total of 67,418 and a handle of $179,218,631. The big event was successful even though the Breeders’ Cup itself didn’t directly increase Del Mar Thoroughbred Club revenue. The efforts to host the Breeders’ Cup didn’t make money for the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, but the track personnel are still happy with the event.

Joe Naiman Special to Valley News

Four local prep football teams reach CIFSS Semifinals, two advance to Finals

JP Raineri Sports Editor

For the first time in the area’s history, four high school football teams from Murrieta and Temecula reached the semifinal round of the CIF Southern Section Football Playoffs. Murrieta Valley, Vista Murrieta, Murrieta Mesa, and Great Oak battled for their respective divisions last Friday, cementing the region’s growing reputation on the gridiron. Two teams—Murrieta Valley and Murrieta Mesa—have advanced to the championship stage, setting up high-stakes matchups this upcoming weekend.

Division 2 thriller leads Murrieta Valley to championship

Murrieta Valley has been an offensive juggernaut since the return of quarterback Bear Bachmeier. The Stanford commit was once again the catalyst for the Nighthawks, delivering a standout performance to lead his team to their first-ever CIF Southern Section Division 2 title game with a thrilling 55-52 overtime victory against Oaks Christian.

The semifinal clash was nothing short of electric. Oaks Christian jumped to an early 21-7 lead in the second quarter, putting the Nighthawks in dangerous territory.

But Murrieta Valley, as they’ve

proven throughout their season, fought their way back. Bachmeier connected with Derrick Johnson Jr. for a critical 41-yard touchdown pass to tie the game at 42-42 in the fourth quarter, followed by a crucial 5-yard scoring run from Dorian Hoze that sent the game into overtime.

Overtime was all about clutch performances. Hoze gained 19 yards on the drive, though a holding penalty momentarily set the Nighthawks back to the 12yard line. That set up Bachmeier’s game-winning play—a determined 12-yard rushing touchdown that sent Murrieta Valley fans into a frenzy.

Bachmeier put together a monster stat line with 234 passing yards and three touchdowns, completing 17 of 21 attempts. He also added 89 rushing yards and three touchdowns on the ground. Since his return, the Nighthawks have averaged 52.8 points per game and are 5-0 heading into the finals.

Hoze also delivered, rushing for 144 yards and a touchdown despite Oaks Christian’s strong defensive efforts. Murrieta Valley’s defense, paced by lineman Gio Monge, held firm in critical moments, helping the Nighthawks overcome turnovers and stay in the hunt. Murrieta Valley will host

Newbury Park in their first Division 2 championship game on Saturday, Nov. 30, at 7 p.m. The last time the Nighthawks reached this stage, they fell to San Clemente in 2016 when Bear’s older brother, Hank,

was the starting quarterback. This time around, the Nighthawks are determined to make history.

Murrieta Mesa punches ticket to Division 6 title game

The Murrieta Mesa Rams

secured their first-ever trip to the CIF-SS Division 6 finals with a dramatic 31-28 victory over St. Francis. It’s been a season of firsts

Murrieta Valley QB Bear Bachmeier (47) has his eyes on the endzone during a crucial play against Oaks Christian Friday, Nov. 22, in the CIF-SS Division 2 playoffs. Valley News/Andrez Imaging

Murrieta Valley RB Dorian Hoze (5) tumbles through a maze of Oak Christian defenders. Valley News/Andrez Imaging

With a Division 6 semifinal win over St. Francis (31-28), Murrieta Mesa advances for the first time ever to a CIF-Southern Section title game.

Vista Murrieta’s Shane Ramstad (9) pressures Edison quarterback Sam Thomson (10) during their CIF-SS Division 3 semifinal playoff game. Valley News/Action Captures Media Group

Valley News/IG Courtesy photo

Vista Murrieta’s Bryson Beaver (2) scrambles out of the pocket, looking for an open receiver against Edison. Valley News/Action Captures Media Group

Oak Christian RB Deshonne Redeaux tries to out maneuver Murrieta Valley defenders Victor Marquex (93) and Isaiah Ayers (4). Valley News/Andrez Imaging

for the Rams, whose win on Friday night came down to tense final moments.

The Rams took the lead late in the third quarter with a field goal, and the standoff continued as the game approached its conclusion.

St. Francis lined up for a potential game-tying field goal in the final seconds, but the kick went wide, sealing Murrieta Mesa’s victory.

Quarterback Trey Gamble Jr. led the offense, throwing for 143 yards and a touchdown while rushing for 38 yards—his highest single-game rushing total—and another score.

Artyon Celestine contributed 86 yards on the ground, helping the Rams grind out the clock and maintain their slim lead in the second half.

Gamble Jr.’s performance comes on the back of a careerhigh 322-yard passing game in the quarterfinals, where he showed poise under pressure. His ability to

consistently find playmakers like Dez’mun Franklin, who has been crucial to the Rams’ aerial attack, has been a major factor in their success during this playoff run.

Now riding an eight-game win streak, Murrieta Mesa will face Glendora in the finals at Citrus College on Saturday, Nov. 30, at 7 p.m. Division 3 and Division 9 dreams come to an end

While Murrieta Valley and Murrieta Mesa kept their seasons alive, Vista Murrieta and Great Oak saw their championship aspirations cut short in the semifinals.

Vista Murrieta hosted Edison in the CIF-SS Division 3 semifinals but struggled to contain Edison’s senior running back Julius Gillick.

Gillick carried the Chargers with an incredible six-touchdown performance, rushing for 130 yards in three quarters as Edison cruised to a 42-14 win. Vista Murrieta’s highlights were few but included a kickoff return for a touchdown by Joshua Banks and a late second-quarter touchdown connection between junior quarterback Bryson Beaver and Sean McCullough.

Meanwhile, Great Oak’s Division 9 semifinal against Long Beach Wilson ended in disappointment, as the Wolfpack fell 32-13 on the road. Ryder Smith, Great Oak’s standout running back, managed 111 rushing yards, including a 48-yard touchdown in the third quarter, but Wilson’s defense applied relentless pressure throughout.

Great Oak quarterback Reagan Ricken struggled, completing only 11 of 27 passes for 48 yards and a touchdown.

Both Vista Murrieta and Great Oak can reflect on hard-fought seasons filled with key moments of growth and determination. Vista Murrieta, in particular, showed perseverance by reaching the semifinals as the No. 15 seed in Division 3 after upsetting higherseeded teams in consecutive rounds.

Moving forward, for Murrieta Valley and Murrieta Mesa, championship glory is within reach. These local programs carry the hopes of their communities into what could be historic final matchups. Will Murrieta Valley

Ivy League Volleyball Coach of the Year, Caitlyn Bato leads Rancho Christian through stellar Season

JP Raineri Sports Editor

TEMECULA — Taking the helm in her first year as head coach, Caitlyn Bato has cemented her place in Rancho Christian history by propelling the Lady Eagles to new heights. Under her leadership, the team concluded the season with an impressive 21-5 overall record, including a 9-1 mark in league play, securing a Division 2 playoff berth and clinching their second league title in three years.

The Lady Eagles, driven by cohesive teamwork and sharp strategy, dominated their competition throughout the season. With an aggressive yet disciplined style of play, the team’s versatility on both offense and defense set them apart in a competitive field. Their stellar league performance not only verified their ability to rise to the challenge but also reflected the tactical adjustments made by their new head coach.

“Coach Bato has been a gamechanger for this program,” said Elzie Gatson, Rancho Christian’s athletic director. “Her energy, attention to detail, and ability to bring out the best in each player were evident from day one. This season was special for everyone involved.” A critical moment came mid-

season when the Lady Eagles faced their biggest rival, locking horns for first place in the league standings. With decisive plays and clear leadership from Coach Bato, the team sealed the victory, setting the tone for their league dominance. Her commitment to preparation and focus on skill development allowed the Lady Eagles to not only thrive during routine matchups but also deliver under high-stakes pressure.

Additionally, individual players like Madi Pulsipher, Suzy Kemle, Janiah Burrage and Brighton Richards elevated their games under Bato’s guidance, with several stepping up as key contributors through the season. Bato’s ability to cultivate an environment of growth and trust was crucial in empowering her athletes to perform at their highest levels.

The excitement surrounding the Lady Eagles’ successful campaign has earned Bato recognition beyond her remarkable firstyear accomplishments. She has been nominated as the 2024-25 Ivy League Coach of the Year, a prestigious acknowledgment of her impact on the program and her ability to lead Rancho Christian to such an outstanding season.

After the news was shared, Coach Bato told her staff this, “We shared a goal this year, and it started with trust and hard work. This isn’t

just my success; it’s the players, the staff, and the entire Rancho Christian community rallying together. I couldn’t be prouder of this team.” As the Lady Eagles prepare for the off-season, the impact of Coach Bato’s debut season lingers,

in a

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Sean Mccullough (10) looks for an opportunity to put the Broncos on the scoreboard. Valley News/Action Captures Media Group

Senior Kyle Fritzoni (3) sacrifices body and soul to get a first down and move the chains for Great Oak’s offense. Valley News/Rob Davis Photography

Junior RB, Ryder Smith (2), breaks through traffic for Great Oak’s first touchdown of the game against Long Beach Wilson. Valley News/Rob Davis Photography

Herschel Ramirez, this year’s new Head Coach, along with his staff, coached Great Oak all the way to the CIF-SS Division 9 Semifinals. Valley News/Rob Davis Photography

Coach Caitlyn Bato and the Rancho Christian Lady Eagles secured their second league title in three years.

Murrieta Valley shines as 2024 All-Southwestern League Girls’ Volleyball Teams announced

JP Raineri Sports Editor

MURRIETA – Murrieta Valley’s girls’ volleyball team had a season to remember, capping off their historic run with both a Southwestern League title and their first-ever CIF Southern Section Division 2 championship. Rising above fierce competition, the Nighthawks and their wellrounded roster were a consistent force throughout the season, highlighted by a nail-biting, fiveset victory over Palos Verdes in the finals. Not to be overlooked, the Temecula Valley Golden Bears also boasted an impressive run, making it to the CIF Division I State semifinals before falling in a thrilling match against the Santa

Margarita Eagles. This culmination of high-stakes competition, coupled with brilliant individual performances, set the stage for the announcement of the 2024 All-Southwestern League Girls Volleyball Team—an honor recognizing the league’s top athletes and their contributions to their respective teams.

Murrieta Valley senior Miley Thunstrom earned the coveted Most Valuable Player award. Her leadership on and off the court and clutch performances during pivotal moments made her a standout in a league packed with talent. A versatile player known for her poise, Thunstrom played a major role in her team’s championship success. The All-League First Team

roster sees strong representation from Murrieta Valley, Temecula Valley, and other standout teams. Among the honorees was Murrieta Valley’s Ryliegh Short, whose pinpoint setting abilities fueled the team’s offense throughout the year. For the Golden Bears, Maddison Snow and Savannah Sheridan were highlighted for their consistent contributions, while junior standout Allison Chapin’s defensive play earned her a well-deserved spot on the list. Chaparral’s Devin Hicks and Ella Johnson also made impactful contributions, providing a strong net presence for their team, while Vista Murrieta’s Kiersten Moore and Nicolette Noble displayed exceptional court awareness and game IQ.

On the Second Team, younger players made their mark as some of the league’s brightest upand-comers, including Murrieta Valley’s freshman phenom, Summer Tukua, whose athleticism and tenacity are a promising sign of what’s to come for the Nighthawks. Meanwhile, Temecula Valley’s Brooklyn Pierce and Stephanie Gonzalez were acknowledged for their ability to elevate the team’s defensive strategies during critical moments. Players from Great Oak, Chaparral, Murrieta Mesa, and Vista Murrieta also shined, contributing impactful performances that bolstered their team’s standings.

The teams were announced as follows: First Team: Ryliegh Short, Murrieta Valley, Sr. Melanie Hewlett, Murrieta Valley, Sr. Maddison Snow, Temecula Valley, Sr. Savannah Sheridan, Temecula Valley, Jr. Allison Chapin, Temecula Valley, Jr. Devin Hicks, Chaparral, Sr. Ella Johnson, Chaparral, So. Emerson Macias, Murrieta Mesa, Jr. Kiersten Moore, Vista Murrieta, So.

Nicolette Noble, Vista Murrieta, Sr. Second Team: Summer Tukua, Murrieta Valley, Fr. Cadence Axene, Murrieta Valley, Sr. Brooklyn Pierce, Temecula Valley, So. Stephanie Gonzalez, Temecula Valley, Jr. Sofia Ajmal, Chaparral, Sr. Shay Roddy, Chaparral, So. Alba Canko, Great Oak, Jr. Annette Lee, Great Oak, Sr. Analei Bradley, Murrieta Mesa, Jr. Savannah White, Murrieta Mesa, So. Charlotte Underwood, Vista Murrieta, Sr. Baylee Jones, Vista Murrieta, So.

The Southwestern League continues to build a reputation as one of the most competitive volleyball landscapes in the region, thanks to the efforts of these elite athletes and their commitment to excellence. With this year’s standout performances and promising underclassmen, the league is well-positioned for yet another exciting season in 2025. Send local sports tips and info to sports@reedermedia.com

Dr. John S. Dahlem’s legacy lives on through CIF-SS and beyond

JP Raineri Sports Editor

LOS ALAMITOS — The CIF Southern Section mourns the loss of Dr. John S. Dahlem, whose lifetime of dedication to high school sports and education left an indelible mark. Dr. Dahlem, 81, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, November 8, surrounded by his family after a prolonged illness.

Dr. Dahlem’s relationship with high school sports began in the 1960s, and his commitment to the CIF Southern Section spanned decades. Serving as council president from 2004 to 2006 and later as a voluntary historian, he worked tirelessly to preserve the organization’s legacy. His meticulous efforts established the foundation of the CIF-SS historical archives, which have been renamed the “Dr. John S. Dahlem Digital Library” in his honor.

A Santa Monica native and 1961 graduate of Santa Monica High School, Dahlem built an impressive academic and professional resume. After earning degrees from the University of Oregon and UCLA and completing his doctorate in Human Behavior and Leadership, he became a highly respected teacher, wrestling coach, and administrator within the Anaheim Union High School District. Dahlem retired in 2006 but continued giving back to the

community through passionate advocacy for wrestling and youth athletics.

Widely admired in the wrestling community, Dahlem’s coaching career at Loara High School from 1969 to 1984 was marked by significant accomplishments, including 233 victories, 10 league championships, and four undefeated seasons. His contributions extended beyond team success, as he championed girls’ wrestling as an officially sanctioned CIF-SS sport. His commitment earned him prestigious honors, including induction into the California Wrestling Hall of Fame and the Orange County Wrestling Hall of Fame.

Beyond the world of high school sports, Dahlem’s adventurous spirit was nothing short of inspiring. A decorated U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam War, he embraced mountain climbing in his later years, completing the Explorer’s

Grand Slam with climbs of the Seven Summits and expeditions to both poles. At Mount Everest, he and his son, Ryan, set a record as the oldest father-and-son duo to summit together.

The CIF Southern Section staff remembers Dahlem not only for his significant contributions but also for the personal relationships he built. “He’s everything. He’s part of the family,” said CIF-SS Assistant Commissioner Thom Simmons. Rich Shearer, the Assistant Commissioner, added, “He is a tremendous human being, and the world is in a much better place because of him.”

Arrangements for a celebration of life are anticipated in December 2024. Dr. Dahlem’s family has asked that donations be made to the Dr. John S. Dahlem Digital Collection – Memorial Fund in lieu of flowers.

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

Murrieta Valley’s Miley Thunstrom delivers a powerful serve, helping solidify her MVP-worthy season.

Temecula Valley’s Maddison Snow, a First Team selection, helped keep the championship dreams alive for the Golden Bears all season.

Murrieta Valley’s Cadence Axene, a second team selection, goes up to block a critical shot against Roosevelt.

Valley News/David Canales photo

Valley News/David Canales photo

Valley News/David Canales photo

Dr. John S. Dahlem, former CIF-SS president, celebrated educator, and wrestling icon, leaves a lasting legacy in sports and education.

Valley News/Courtesy photo

Valley-Wide’s Turkey Trot attracts record number of participants

Diane A. Rhodes Special to Valley News

Valley-Wide Recreation and Park District held its 36th annual Turkey Trot Family Fun Run on Saturday, Nov. 23. This year, it was named the Jack Warneke Memorial 2024 Turkey Trot in honor of longtime supporter Jack Warneke, of San Jacinto, who passed away in March. Warneke had participated in all 35 of the previous races as well as all of the Bunny Hop runs held in the spring. He was also a regular competitor in the District’s annual OLDlympics.

Warneke kept a log of all his runs, and it amounted to more than 25,000 miles in his 92 years.

In the past, the popular event has typically seen about 70 participants while this year 115 were preregistered with another 53 signing up on Saturday morning. A short ceremony to honor Warneke took place before the start of the 5K Walk. Valley-Wide’s General Manager Dean Wetter said the dedication was decided among staff but swiftly approved by the Board of Directors when presented for their approval.

“We are pleased to have this opportunity to introduce this event to honor Jack, who touched all our hearts,” Wetter said. “He was a very inspirational man. Jack was more than just a participant. He was a community member that should be remembered for his healthy lifestyle. It’s not widely known but Jack and his wife Nancy were very strong financial supporters of our youth scholarship program that has given hundreds of kids the opportunity to participate in our many sports offerings. Since 1972, we have never turned away a child for an inability to pay.”

The top three winners in each category received a medal and some extra goodies. A raffle for Jack Warneke prize baskets was also held during the event. Senior Recreation Supervisor Missy Galloway, the longest tenured employee at Valley-Wide Recreation and Park District, said she was glad to be at the race, “in honor of my friend Jack. Cheers to him!”

Among those who have run this race in the past were sisters Keilee Subith, 10 and Kiana Subith, 8 whose grandfather Sheldon Subith is an avid long-distance runner and founder of the Native American Trail Running Organization (NATRO).

An ongoing friendly rivalry continued on Saturday between Ben Cherland, 12 and Max Millan, 11. Ben’s father, Bret Cherland,

said the boys almost always trade off finishing first and second in races where they both compete. Bret, who also ran in the 5K race, said. “I finished. I wasn’t listening when I got my time, but I’m proud that I basically kept the same pace for the entire run. There were a lot of really fast guys in my 40-49 age group.”

Ben attends Western Science Academy in Hemet and Max is at Edward Hyatt World Language Academy in San Jacinto. Max earned first place in the 1K with a time of 3:22 and Ben was on his heels finishing at 3:26 for second place. Ben went on to complete the 5K in 27:09 minutes, placing second behind Daniel Ragier who ran an impressive 23:49 race.

“I’ve been running since I was like three,” Max said. “I like doing the Turkey Trot; it’s a good workout.” His mother, Carmina Millan, said she and her husband like putting their two sons into sports. Alexander, 7, also competed in Saturday’s events. “They’ve both always been athletic.”

Their father Ryan didn’t participate this year but has in the past and said, “Max has run in the Turkey Trot for eight years straight and has always placed first overall since he started.”

Saturday’s competition began with the Gobble Trot and girls under three years of age finished in the following order: Ava Solis, Mia McKinney and Olive Robinette. For boys under three, it was Tobias Whaley first and Oliver Ogle, second. Amelia Jimenez and Quinn Shinnette took first and second in the girls 4-5 age group and Kuy Mendez and Ethan Mata did the same for the boys.

The Junior Turkey Trot, a 1K run for those 12 and under resulted in first place finishes in their respective age groups by Vashti Miller, Levi Koehler, Kiana Subith, Carter Ray, Samantha Lucero and Max Millan.

For the 5K events, walkers started first and after the runners got the whistle, they soon passed by the walkers that were on the trail that was set up around the perimeter of Valley-Wide’s Diamond Valley Lake Community Park in Hemet. The top three walkers were Anna Miller, Gwen Yost and Mia Iniquez.

Mike Ogle, who is an avid runner, placed first in his age group for the 5K run, which he completed in under 40 minutes.

Having participated in ValleyWide’s Turkey Trot and other events for the past 35 years or so, he knew Warneke well and said

he

carrying on a family tradition. Prior to the ceremony for the

trot races, Valley-Wide’s Public Information Officer Craig Shultz said, “Every single person who ran in the race deserves a medal.”

Jan Bissell, President of ValleyWide’s Board of Directors for the past five years, wished everyone a good time on the course. “ValleyWide is in my blood,” he said. Bissell began coaching and volunteering with the District in 1975 and has a college degree in recreation. He was elected to the board for the first time in 1999 and served until 2010. He then worked for the organization before returning to serve on the board. “I love this community,” he said, adding that he moved to Hemet in 1959. “Just because of how our world is changing, recreation is so important. Keeping kids active and off their computers and phones is a good thing. It makes me smile to see them involved in all the activities we have to offer them.” For more information, www. gorecreation.org.

Racers line up for the start of Valley-Wide’s Jack Warneke Memorial 2024 Turkey Trot on Saturday, Nov. 23 at Diamond Valley Lake Community Park. in Hemet. Valley News/Diane A. Rhodes photo

Valley-Wide Recreation and Park District General Manager Dean Wetter addresses the annual Turkey Trot participants as Board President Jan Bissell, center, listens.

Mike Ogle, who has participated in the Turkey Trot for more than 35 years gives a pep talk to his grandson, Oliver Ogle, who raced in his first Gobble Trot on Nov. 23.

Valley News/Diane A. Rhodes photo

Valley News/Don Starkey photo

A group of runners enjoy themselves during the 1K Jr. Turkey Trot at Diamond Valley Lake Community Park in Hemet. Valley News/Don Starkey photo

Valley-Wide’s Senior Recreation Supervisor Keri Price cheers for participants in the girls’ Gobble Trot on Nov. 23. Valley News/Don Starkey photo

will always miss him. Ogle’s one-year-old grandson, Oliver, competed in the Gobble Trot,

winners of the pee-wee and junior

Jack Warneke at his home in San Jacinto in 2020 when he reached a milestone of running 25,000 miles. Valley News/Diane A. Rhodes photo

San Jacinto Valley students honored in November

Diane A. Rhodes Contributor

The Hemet/San Jacinto Student of the Month program held its most recent recognition breakfast at the Maze Stone at Soboba Springs Golf Course on Nov 7. Seven local high school seniors were recognized and honored for their character, love of learning and commitment to academics in addition to their involvement in school and community activities and their ability and resiliency in overcoming difficult life challenges. And they do this all in a setting that honors God, country, family, community and free enterprise. Students are nominated by teachers or other school personnel for making a difference in their homes, schools and communities.

Local program founder and Student of the Month Committee member Karena Zermeno, who also represents one of the sponsors Altura Credit Union, emceed the event. Each student was invited to the podium to share their personal story, past and/or current 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.

November’s students of the month from Hemet Unified School District are Drew Sene Amisone, Karelyn Blackmore, Nadia Henry, Damian Renteria and Christina Walker. San Jacinto Unified’s honorees for November are Estrella Guzman Banuelos and Mariah Ruiz.

Hemet Unified School District Drew Sene Amisone West Valley High School singled out Drew this month. Coach Brent Perez composed a letter to Drew which he read as a way to introduce him. “In all my years of coaching, I don’t think I’ve ever met anyone so talented, yet so humble,” he said. “I know this season has been tough for you. This was supposed to be your big year when you landed a Division 1 football scholarship but injuries have sidetracked that momentarily.” Drew said, “This has probably been the hardest year for me. I was restricted from doing the thing I love most and that was playing football. From a young age, football has been my world, it’s been my identity and it’s been more than a sport to me.” An injured ankle before the season’s first game cost him six out of 10 games, which put him in a dark place where he avoided his friends who were also his teammates. After a long six weeks of recovery he returned to the field with a fierce intention to show what he could still do. In the third quarter of his second game back, he broke his collarbone and that ended his senior regular season. Damian hopes to attend a college with strong animal science and biology classes where he can also play football. “One lesson I’ll carry with me to college is to never give up.” Drew’s mother, Sone Faasalele, directed her comments at her son, saying, “You have surpassed all of my expectations and have become the young man that your father and I have always dreamt you to be – a responsible

young man who leads from the front, not only on the field but specifically with your siblings. I don’t need the accolades or trophies to tell me how incredible you are.”

Karelyn Blackmore Hamilton High School Principal Kari Sanchez described Karelyn as a “Girl on Fire” who has her feet planted solidly on the ground but is truly on fire. She is known around campus as “Kare” and said it is very fitting. Teacher Diana WeltyGuerrero has known Karelyn since her freshman year and said she’s always been a stop student. She serves as ASB president and is always eager to help others. She plans to attend UCSD to major in computer science.

In 2022, Karelyn’s father died after losing his battle with alcoholism after being sober for 15 years. Because she had inherited her love for technology from him, the passion they had shared began to falter. “When I was told to leave my childhood home at 16, I supported myself with my father’s mindset and my determination to prove I could survive with no parental support,” she said. She shared a quote from poet and novelist Herman Hesse, “I have always believed, and I still believe, that whatever good or bad fortine may come our way, we can always give it meaning and transform it into something of value.” Karelyn said, “I am now more passionate and dedicated to success than ever before.” She said she has dreamed of attending college since she could spell her name and hopes to bring more technology back to her community after she earns her degree.

Nadia Henry Hemet High School calculus teacher Kristin DeWit introduced Nadia as an outstanding student with a 4.5 GPA, who is ranked first in her senior class and has passed eight AP exams. “Her passion for research recently led her to complete an impressive study on post-fire sapling regeneration. Her findings were shared with the San Jacinto Forestry Department which helped them to better understand the results of their past regeneration efforts,” DeWit said. “She wants to use her intelligence to better our world.”

Nadia said her story begins in her mountain hometown of Idyllwild.

“Growing up in a place surrounded by nature, you can guess I’m very passionate about the environment, which has evolved into a love for conservation,” she said. After her parents divorced and her father moved to Alaska, the family had to move in with friends and when they changed religions, the rest of the family cut ties with them. This caused a lot of despair, and her sister was driven to the point of attempting suicide. Nadia worked hard to overcome these challenges. Hoping to combine her love of nature with her strong physics and math skills, she hopes to attend Stanford to prepare for a career as a biomimicry engineer. “I’ve learned that perseverance is not just pushing through your obstacles but using those experiences to fuel your passions and create a positive change,” Nadia said. “My story is a testament to that.”

Damian Renteria Western Center Academy

selected Damian as their Student of the Month for November.

Counselor Sandy Arave said that throughout his time at the school, Damian has exemplified kindness, consideration and unwavering support for everyone around him, all while excelling academically. “His commitment to improving our school culture as a member of ASB is evident in every initiative he champions,” she said. Damian said, “Growing up in a Mexican family it became apparent to me at a young age that I was different from those around me. The household I grew up in was my safe place and up until elementary school I never had any issues with my identity or more specifically my sexuality.” In middle school he would overhear snarky comments about how he talked and questioning if he was gay. “At this point I never considered myself gay because to be honest I didn’t know what it meant,” Damian said. “My sister had already come out as gay, but I couldn’t fully understand what orientation was.” He began to express himself through eyeliner, mascara and feminine clothing and in his sophomore year some senior boys called him a “fag” as he was walking to his biotechnology class. “I had no other emotion but sadness; it waved over me like fire,” he said. However, those words eventually turned into motivation for Damian, leading him to join ASB, LINK Crew and UNICEF and allowing him to become the leader and mentor he never felt like he could ever be.

“My actions spoke louder than my words and I’ve become someone to look up to,” he said. “So always remember, words may have power, but your actions will always be stronger.”

Christina Walker

Tahquitz High School Principal Andrew Holmes introduced Christina as a “talented scholar that loves to dance and her favorite class is English because she finds it inspirational to write about her passions.” College and Career Counselor and Pacific Islander

Club advisor LaVerne Williams Schoonover said Christina has embraced the art of storytelling through Polynesian dance culture.

“But most of all, she has embodied the aloha spirit through her daily actions,” she said. As a token of love, she presented Christina with a special lei that symbolizes enlightenment, protection, peace and guidance. “I believe my greatest contribution at school is helping my peers in class and getting more students involved by joining clubs,” Christina said. “I believe as a captain of the Polynesian dance team I try to encourage and teach other students to do their best in school and outside of school.”

On Aug. 8, 2023, when wildfires destroyed Hawaiian towns on the island of Maui, Christina reached out with her teammates and singlehandedly organized a fundraiser. One hundred percent of the proceeds went to provide basic back-to-school items for school children through Maui Strong. Christina plans to pursue a career in radiology.

San Jacinto Unified School District Estrella Guzman Banuelos San Jacinto High School teacher John Norman Jr. has known Estrella since her freshman year. He said that in his 20-plus years of teaching, she is the toughest student he has ever known, adding, “She’s probably impacted me more than I have impacted her. This year she has really blossomed; it’s amazing to see when somebody is given a chance to have some structure in their lives what they can become.”

Due to unfortunate circumstances, her family lived in a one-room hotel room all of last year. Estrella said that she had always planned to become a pediatric doctor until she realized that children need mental and emotional help and not just physical help. This shifted her career plans to the area of child and family social work. “Growing up I had to deal with a language barrier until I was able to speak proper English,” Estrella said. She said there were added

family responsibilities that often brought her down as she was seen as the one who needed to set an example for her younger siblings. “One of the most important things I’ve learned is that you may not be able to control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide to not be defined by them,” she said. Estrella spent two years on the cross-country team and four years on the track team. She’s been an AVID and MEChA club member all four years as well. Mariah Ruiz

Mountain Heights Academy teacher Gabrielle Henderson described Mariah as an “incredibly driven” student who seeks a future career in the healthcare field as a registered nurse “where her compassion and commitment will undoubtedly make a difference.” Mariah said her greatest contribution is and always will be supporting her mother. “I am the second oldest of seven girls and my mom works 10 hours every day to have the things that we have,” she said. “Although I know my mom is a strong, independent woman, I still try my hardest to make her day easier. Whether it’s having the house clean, dinner made or even just helping to get my sisters ready for bed, it is always worth it to help my mom get a moment of rest because I know how much she needs it. Being there for my mom has taught me empathy, responsibility and resilience and these are qualities I will take with me for the rest of my life.”

Her goals are to attend college, earn her degree in science and become a registered nurse, hopefully in the neonatal field. “Nursing isn’t just a career for me, but a way to make a difference in people’s lives,” Mariah said. “I have learned self-love and how to be resilient despite others’ opinions of me. I learned to speak up and set boundaries. A significant life lesson I’ll take with me is to not let others’ opinions bring you down or define who you are.”

For more information, www. studentofthemonth.net.

LINCOLN, NE - Landen Fogle of Murrieta, a junior majoring in computer science and finance (Raikes School) at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, won a $500 prize in the university’s recent 3-21 Quick Pitch competition.

Hosted by the Nebraska Center for Entrepreneurship, the event gives students from any college on campus a platform to deliver a three-minute business idea to volunteer judges from Nebraska’s entrepreneurship community for the chance to win cash prizes totaling $12,000. By finishing in the top two in one of 12 competition groups, Fogle also earned a guaranteed spot in the center’s New Venture Competition in April to vie for a $15,000 grand prize and other potential investment from the student-led Husker Venture Fund.

“After doing this for more than 15 years, I’ve seen incredible

things that past competitors are now accomplishing,” said Sam Nelson, director of the Center for Entrepreneurship and associate professor of practice in management. “Many would say they got their start heresharing their ideas with successful businesspeople. It’s a big step, especially for students used to presenting only in a classroom, and they gain a lot from the experience.”

The event’s 12 competition “rooms” were in the hallways of Howard L. Hawks Hall, the home of the College of Business.

Thirty-eight Husker alumni and friends served as judges, including Bob Frady, co-founder and CEO of PropertyLens, who traveled from Minneapolis for the event.

“One of people’s biggest fears is public speaking, and this event made some shake with nerves,” he said. “But in a supportive

environment like this, it’s a huge help for their careers, even if they don’t continue with their business idea.”

Husker alumna Christie Stukenholtz, co-founder and CEO of Senior Care Finder, said she heard pitches ranging from early ideas to fully operational businesses and saw the potential for success among participants.

“The students’ poise, clarity and storytelling ability were impressive,” she said. “They were vulnerable in sharing their personal story to paint the picture of the problem they are trying to solve. We shared how proud of them we were and encouraged them to share how well they did with their families. Putting yourself out there is no small feat, and they’ll be better for it.”

Individual photos of the 3-2-1 Quick Pitch winners are available upon request by emailing Sean

Recipients of the Hemet/San Jacinto Student of the Month award for November are, from left, Nadia Henry, Mariah Ruiz, Damian Renteria, Christina Walker, Drew Sene Amisone, Estrella Guzman Banuelos and Karelyn Blackmore. StylePhotography by Alex Tapia photo

CHP calling motorists to ‘Slow Down and Move Over’ for Maintenance crews or First Responders

Tony Ault Staff Writer

This past week California’s Highway Patrol (CHP), the Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) and the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) joined together to call it Crash Responder Safety Week to remind drivers to move over when safe to do so and slow down near traffic incidents and work zones to prevent serious injuries and deaths on California’s roadways.

For the drivers in our Southwest Riverside area who daily experience traffic in their travels to and from San Diego and Los Angeles it is important to always remember the state’s Move Over law which requires drivers to move over a lane when safe to do so and slow down for approaching or stopped emergency or maintenance vehicles.

However, on a crowded freeway it might be hard to move over safely, but to do the best you can. If nothing else do not move into the open safety or construction lanes, sometimes those emergency vehicles find it is the only way to pass the heavy traffic. Do not make it more difficult for them.

The CHP and Caltrans also say the public’s health, safety, and well-being are often dependent on the commitment of first responders to conduct invaluable and often life-saving operations on the side of our roads. When first responders

report an incident, that is in a work zone.

Here is a fact drivers should know: According to the National Safety Council, 891 people were killed and 37,701 were injured in work zone crashes in 2022 across the country. During the same period, more than 10,000 work-zone crashes occurred on California roadways, resulting in 117 fatalities and more than 4,500 injuries. While all 50 states have “Move Over” laws to protect roadway workers, one-third of the public are not aware of the law.

“Safety is our top priority,” said Caltrans Director Tony Tavares.

“We are asking drivers that when near work zones, please slow down, pay attention and move over when you see flashing responder lights. There’s no excuse to speed and drive recklessly. Make the conscious decision to protect yourself, loved ones, fellow travelers and vulnerable highway workers.”

This advice is important as there are many areas in this area that are under construction or rehabilitation with dozens of Caltrans and contract workers on the job both day and night.

Caltrans reports there will be no lane closures from Wednesday, Nov. 27 until Dec. 2 because of the expected high holiday traffic. There may be some highway projects on hold for the upcoming holidays. Here is the latest highway

update from Caltrans and the Riverside County Transportation Commission.

Menifee/Murrieta

Caltrans contractors will be continuing some work on Interstate 215 from Murrieta to Menifee to improving the road surface, updating shoulder rumble strips, enhance culverts, to improve the road surface, upgrade guardrails, stabilize slopes, and boost highway worker safety.

This week construction crews will focus on several key tasks, including landscaping, rock blanket installation, and other related activities. Shoulder and lane closures will be in effect on northbound I-215 at the Scott Road Loop Off-Ramp for the rock blanket installation. Additionally, day work will continue on both directions of I-215 between Clinton Keith Road and McCall Boulevard. Commuter access will be maintained with no lane closures. Shoulder closures will remain 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. (State Route 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. Paving operations will be continuing from Yale Street to Fairview Ave. causing some delays. At least one lane in both directions will remain open, but drivers should carefully watch out for the heavy paving equipment operating in the mile or less long closed lanes. Drivers might want to seek alternate routes to avoid delays. Traffic holds may occur for equipment relocation. Daytime paving expected completion by February 2025. Work timelines are subject to change dependent on weather and material availability.

Further up on Highway 74 toward Mountain Center some Caltrans crews may still be working on the historic Strawberry Bridge, but the roadway is now completely open with the final work expected to be complete at the end of Fall.

Perris

Caltrans crews have begun work along both northbound and southbound Interstate 215 (I-215) between the San Jacinto River Bridge and Ramona Expressway in the city of Perris. Daytime work will include shoulder closures at various locations along both

northbound and southbound I-215, including the Redlands Ave. interchange, with rock blanket installation at the curb ramps of Nuevo Road. and Redlands Ave. Some night work may take place that includes milling dig outs on southbound and northbound Lane #3 and the Ramona Expressway ramps, paving dig outs on southbound Lane #3 and the Ramona Expressway ramps, and temporary striping during nighttime operations. Night work is weather permitting. Commuter access will remain open during daytime work; however, nighttime work will require some lane reductions and ramp closures. Drivers should expect potential delays. This project is anticipated to be completed in Fall 2026. Aguanga, Anza Caltrans reports no work is scheduled in Aguanga, Aguanga, State Routes 371 and 79. San Jacinto Caltrans reports there will be no construction taking place on Highway 60 from Beaumont to Moreno Valley and it is reported that Gilman Springs Road out of San Jacinto is now open after extensive safety work. Keep in mind to still obey the electric or stationary speed signs or face steep fines.

Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com

Pala Band of Mission Indians announces re-election of Tribal Council Members, including Chairman Robert Smith

PALA – The Pala Band of Mission Indians proudly announces the re-election of Robert Smith as Tribal Chairman, Theresa J. Nieto as Treasurer, and Shelia L. SmithLopez as Committee Member. The election was held on Tuesday, Nov. 19.

First elected in 1990, Chairman Smith has served for over three decades, leading the Tribe through transformative advancements that have bolstered the well-being of its members, the surrounding community, and Native peoples statewide.

The Tribe has achieved historic milestones over the last thirty years, including negotiating California’s first Tribal-State compact, opening the successful Pala Casino, and securing vital services for the community, such as health, vision, and dental insurance for all members.

Other notable accomplishments include the creation of a $1.5 million home loan program, the launch of a $300,000 scholarship

Highway Update CLASSIFIEDS

for higher education, the expansion of the Tribal cemetery, and the securing of 24-hour ambulance, firefighter, and paramedic services for the reservation. Chairman Smith also organized the establishment of the Pala Library and Pala Child Care Center.

The Tribal Council’s achievements have driven significant economic growth and job creation on the reservation, with Pala Casino and Spa providing thousands of jobs and becoming a key economic driver for the Tribe. Efforts in developing critical infrastructure, including housing, roads, and utilities, have greatly improved the quality of life for Tribal members.

Chairman Smith holds the members of the Pala Tribal Council in the highest regard, acknowledging their crucial role in guiding the Tribe toward a brighter future. “The strength of our Tribe comes not just from leadership but from the unity and wisdom of our Council members and the support of our people,” said Chairman Smith. “Together, we have created a Tribe that is stronger than ever, and I am grateful for their dedication, passion, and commitment to the well-being of our people.”

As advocates for cultural preservation, Chairman Smith and the council have supported the revitalization of the Tribe’s Cupeño and Luiseño heritage, including efforts at the Cupa Cultural Center and the promotion of Native language and traditions.

Chairman Smith has long been a vocal advocate for preserving the Tribe’s sacred sites and ensuring their protection for future

generations. His leadership in safeguarding Gregory Canyon, a site of profound cultural and spiritual significance, exemplifies his deep commitment to the Tribe’s heritage.

“The fight to protect Gregory Canyon is a reflection of our deep connection to the land and our responsibility to future generations,” said Chairman Smith. “As Tribal Chairman, I remain committed to defending our sacred spaces and fostering a future where our Tribe continues to thrive in harmony with our traditions and values.” This dedication to environmental and cultural preservation underscores Chairman Smith’s broader vision for the Tribe’s future, one where the Pala people continue to flourish while upholding the values that define their identity.

As a leader in water rights advocacy, Chairman Smith has been instrumental in securing access to clean and reliable water sources for the Pala Tribe and surrounding communities, and he has been a strong voice in resolving long-standing water disputes as a member of the San Luis Rey Indian Water Authority.

Chairman Smith is also committed to sustainability, which is evident through the Tribe’s renewable energy initiatives, which reduce environmental impact and promote energy independence.

His philanthropy extends to disaster relief, partnerships with local schools, and support for regional organizations focused on education, health, and social services.

“It has been a tremendous honor to serve as Tribal Chairman for over 30 years,” said Chairman Smith. “Throughout this time, I have been dedicated to delivering strong leadership and strategic vision for our Tribe. I look forward to continuing this work to improve our members’ lives and secure a prosperous and sustainable future.”

Beyond his role as Chairman, Robert Smith contributes to numerous organizations dedicated to the betterment of Native communities, including the California Tribal Business Alliance, the San Luis Rey Indian Water Authority, the National Fire Protection Agency, the California State Fireman Association, and the Cupa Cultural Center.

The Pala Band of Mission Indians is a federally recognized Tribe whose reservation spans 12,000 acres along the Palomar Mountain range, approximately 30 miles northeast of San Diego. The reservation is home to over 900 Tribal members of Cupeño and Luiseño descent, who share a unified identity as the Pala people.

SACRAMENTO — Insurance

Commissioner Ricardo Lara

invited public input on a proposal to increase insurance writing in parts of the state most affected by wildfires and other extreme weather catastrophes. The public notice outlines the Department’s approach to a new regulation incorporating the net costs of reinsurance in ratemaking and invites feedback at a public meeting on Thursday, Dec. 5, at 10 a.m. which will be done virtually via Zoom.

The proposed regulation is part of Commissioner Lara’s Sustainable Insurance Strategy aimed at stabilizing California’s property insurance market and expanding coverage options for homeowners, businesses, and other consumers. He previously announced on Nov. 14 that the Department had submitted a related regulation on catastrophe modeling for final approval and

remains on track for completing its regulatory reforms by the end of the year. These two regulatory efforts work together to increase the availability of homeowners and commercial insurance policies in wildfire-distressed areas. Reinsurance is a financial product that has existed since the 14th century, when merchants and traders sought ways to mitigate the risks of ocean voyages and often found they could cover only part of their risks through a single insurer. Today, reinsurance is a cost of doing business in states with increasing climate risks across the nation, enabling insurance companies to write more policies in areas of higher risk. In 2023, the first systematic review of climate risk strategies by Ceres and the California Department of Insurance revealed that reinsurance is the primary strategy most insurance companies use to continue to write and expand

coverage in higher-risk parts of California and across the country.

According to the Department’s public notice, “Because reinsurance costs can vary between companies, the Department proposes to create a standard Net Cost of Reinsurance that establishes a benchmark for all insurance companies. This is similar to how the Department reviews other allowable expenses in rate filings currently reflected in the efficiency standard. Companies that seek to utilize the NCOR would have to demonstrate an increased commitment of policies written in higher risk areas.”

The notice requests public input to inform the final drafting of the regulatory text. Register for the public meeting at https://us06web.zoom.us/ webinar/register/WN_t6OYmtTSdOdiOKXJVi-eg#/ registration. Submitted by California Department of Insurance.

Tracking Trump’s non-cabinet, high level appointments

Jackson Richman, Joseph Lord, Sam Dorman

The Epoch Times

President-elect Donald Trump’s Cabinet has been taking shape. Same with other senior positions that are not in the Cabinet but are crucial in implementing his agenda.

Below are the picks so far, with more to come, and it will be updated accordingly.

US Ambassador to Canada

Trump has selected former Rep. Pete Hoekstra (R-Mich.) to be the next U.S. Ambassador to Canada.

Hoekstra brings several years of experience in foreign relations. He was U.S. Ambassador to the Netherlands under Trump’s first administration. He also played a significant role in bringing about the U.S.–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA) in 2020, according to Trump, which replaced the North American Free Trade Agreement.

He was chairman of the Michigan Republican Party during the 2024 presidential election.

US Ambassador to NATO

Trump selected Matthew Whitaker as his U.S. ambassador to NATO. The role involves advancing the United States’ foreign policy interests within NATO’s 32-member military alliance.

Whitaker served as Trump’s acting attorney general from November 2018 until February 2019, during the president-elect’s first term in office. He also served as a U.S. attorney for the Southern District of Iowa before running in the 2014 Iowa Republican primary for the U.S. Senate.

Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Administrator

Trump selected Dr. Mehmet Oz to be his administrator of the Centers of Medicare and Medicaid Services. Trump said Oz will work with Health and Human Services nominee Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. “to take on the illness industrial complex,” and eliminate waste and fraud from “our country’s most expensive government agency.”

Oz, a cardiothoracic surgeon, is a graduate of Harvard, the University of Pennsylvania School and Medicine, and Wharton Business School. He was also the host of “The Dr. Oz Show” from 2009 to 2022. As a Republican candidate, Oz made an unsuccessful bid for a Senate seat in 2022 in Pennsylvania, losing to Sen. John Fetterman (DPa.). Federal Communications Commission Chairman Trump has chosen Brendan Carr to be the new chairman of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The role entails leading the bipartisan agency of five commissioners, which regulates radio, television, wire, satellite, and cable communications in the United States.

Carr is the senior Republican commissioner at the FCC, a role he has held in two administrations since Trump first appointed him in 2017. He has advocated for banning TikTok over national security concerns.

White House Staff Secretary

Trump has selected William Owen Scharf to be his White House staff secretary. The role entails ensuring the circulation of documents among White House staff.

Scharf has clerked for two federal appeals court judges and has worked as a federal prosecutor. He also represented Trump in a Supreme Court case this year concerning presidential immunity.

White House Press Secretary

President-elect Donald Trump has selected Karoline Leavitt to be his White House press secretary. The role entails acting as a spokesperson for the executive branch—the president in particular—and involves routine White House press briefings.

Leavitt served as the assistant White House press secretary in Trump’s first term, as the 2024 Trump campaign’s national press secretary, and is currently serving as a spokeswoman for the transition team.

President of the Presidential Personnel Office

President-elect Donald Trump picked Sergio Gor to be the President of the Presidential Personnel Office. This office is tasked with recruiting, vetting, and nominating the thousands of appointees who will work in federal agencies across the U.S. government to advance the agenda and goals of Trump’s administration.

Gor has been with Trump since his first campaign in 2016. He is also the president and founder of

Winning Team Publishing, and led the Pro-Trump Super PAC Right for America.

Director of Communications

President-elect Donald Trump has decided to make his campaign spokesperson and current communications director Steven Cheung assistant to the president and director of communications at the White House.

Cheung will be returning to the White House after serving in Trump’s first term as director of strategic response. He also served on Trump’s first campaign and transition team, and he previously worked for the Ultimate Fighting Championship.

U.S. Solicitor General

Trump has selected D. John Sauer to serve as U.S. Solicitor General, a position within the Department of Justice (DOJ) responsible for defending federal law before the Supreme Court.

Sauer advocated for Trump in his appeal of special counsel Jack Smith’s election interference case in Washington this year. That included participating in oral arguments before the Supreme Court, which ultimately ruled that presidents have varying levels of immunity from criminal prosecution.

Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, who defended Trump during his New York falsified documents trial, has been selected to serve as deputy attorney general, which is second to the head of the department.

According to the DOJ, the deputy attorney general “is authorized to exercise all the power and authority of the Attorney General” with some exceptions. Trump on Wednesday chose Rep. Matt Gaetz as U.S. Attorney General, pending confirmation.

Principal Associate Deputy Attorney General

Emil Bove, who has represented Trump in multiple criminal cases this year, was selected by Trump to serve as principal associate deputy attorney general and acting deputy attorney general during Todd Blanche’s confirmation process.

Bove previously served in the DOJ by leading the National Security Unit within the Southern District of New York.

White House Counsel

Attorney William McGinley will be the White House counsel, who primarily provides legal advice to the president. McGinley was counsel at the Republican National Committee, focusing on

election integrity.

During his first administration, Trump had three White House counsels, one of whom, Emmet Flood, served in an acting capacity. During that time, McGinley was the White House Cabinet secretary, whose role is to coordinate between the White House and the agencies of Cabinet members.

McGinley was also counsel at the National Republican Senatorial Committee and a partner at Patton Boggs and Jones Day, two prominent law firms.

Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy

Trump has picked Stephen Miller as his deputy chief of staff for policy.

Miller, who will also be Trump’s homeland security advisor, is known for his hawkish stance on immigration.

Miller served in the first Trump administration as a senior adviser to the president and the White House director of speechwriting.

After Trump’s term ended, Miller founded America First Legal, which has challenged the Biden administration in court on a number of policies.

Border Czar

Trump has selected Tom Homan as his border czar amid the crisis at the southern border.

Homan served in the Trump administration as the director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement when the Department of Justice implemented a “zerotolerance” policy over illegal entrants into the United States.

In an interview on CBS’ “60 Minutes” in October, Homan laid out what a mass deportation program under Trump would look like. He said that families can stick together as they are deported.

The current border czar is Vice President Kamala Harris, who has been criticized for only going to the border twice and focusing primarily on migration from Latin America as opposed to the crisis at the border.

Ambassador to Israel

Trump named former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee to be his ambassador to Israel.

Huckabee, who was governor between 1996 and 2007, is a staunch supporter of the Jewish state and will have to deal with the IsraelHamas war, Israel–Hezbollah conflict, the Iranian threat, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He will also look to be part of the effort to expand the Abraham Accords, which the Trump administration brokered in 2020 between Israel

and the UAE, Bahrain, Sudan, and Morocco.

Huckabee, who ran for president in 2008 and 2016, called it “a privilege” and said that he first visited Israel in 1973, when he was a teenager. That was the year of the Yom Kippur War, when Egypt and Syria launched a surprise attack on Israel during the holiest day on the Jewish calendar.

Special Envoy to the Middle East

Steve Witkoff, a real estate developer based in New York, will be Trump’s special envoy to the Middle East—the first time such a position has been created.

Witkoff, a longtime friend of Trump, will likely be tasked with dealing with the volatile region amid the Iranian threat, the Israel–Hamas war, the Israel–Hezbollah war, and the Israeli–Palestinian conflict. He likely will also look to expand the Abraham Accords.

Witkoff was golfing with Trump at Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida, when a man pointed a firearm through a perimeter fence—only to be spotted by a Secret Service agent. The agent fired at the man, who was later captured and identified as Ryan Routh.

Witkoff has three sons, one of whom died of a drug overdose.

Department of Government Efficiency

Trump named Tesla CEO Elon Musk and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy as the co-chairs of an outside group called the Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE.

In a statement, Trump said DOGE “will pave the way for my Administration to dismantle Government Bureaucracy, slash excess regulations, cut wasteful expenditures, and restructure Federal Agencies.”

Trump said the initiative could be “‘The Manhattan Project’ of our time.”

DOGE will work with the Office of Management and Budget and end its work no later than America’s 250th anniversary, July 4, 2026.

“I look forward to Elon and Vivek making changes to the Federal Bureaucracy with an eye on efficiency and, at the same time, making life better for all Americans,” said Trump.

“Importantly, we will drive out the massive waste and fraud which exists throughout our annual $6.5 Trillion Dollars of Government Spending. They will work together

to liberate our Economy, and make the U.S. Government accountable to ‘WE THE PEOPLE,’” he continued. Ramaswamy unsuccessfully ran for the 2024 GOP presidential nod. He dropped out after the Iowa Caucus in January and immediately endorsed Trump. Before 2024, Musk said he had never voted Republican.

Deputy Chief of Staff

Trump has selected Dan Scavino, a longtime ally, as his deputy chief of staff.

Scavino has been with Trump since before Trump entered politics, serving previously as a general manager for the Trump National Golf Club Westchester.

Scavino was also responsible for social media during Trump’s 2016 campaign. He stayed in similar roles after Trump won that election, serving first as Trump’s director of social media and later as the deputy chief of staff for communications.

He’ll serve directly under Susie Wiles, the incoming chief of staff.

Deputy Chief of Staff for Legislative, Political, and Public Affairs

James Blair, who served as the political director for Trump’s 2024 campaign, will serve as deputy chief of staff for legislative, political, and public affairs in the incoming White House.

In his campaign capacity, Blair was in part responsible for Trump’s unorthodox ground game that brought in thousands of young and low-propensity voters.

In the past, Blair has provided general political consulting services, having had a role in Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’s underdog 2018 victory to become Florida’s governor.

His current role will involve a mix of legislative advocacy, discussions with Congress, political strategy, and public communications.

Deputy Chief of Staff for Communications and Personnel Taylor Budowich, another Trump campaign staffer, will serve as the deputy chief of staff for communications and personnel.

Budowich was responsible for running Trump’s main PAC, MAGA Inc. He joined Trump’s campaign over the summer.

He’ll be in charge of overseeing communications and managing personnel-related matters.

Reprinted with permission from The Epoch Times Copyright 2024. To subscribe go to subscribe. theepochtimes.com

Duct-taped banana sells for $6.2 million at Sotheby’s Auction, and buyer plans to eat it

Elma Aksalic

The Epoch Times

A cryptocurrency entrepreneur made a whopping $6.2 million dollar purchase on a piece of artwork featuring a single ripe banana duct-taped to a wall.

The artwork dubbed “Comedian,” by Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan, sold at auction at Sotheby’s in New York Nov. 20 to Justin Sun, who outbid six others in the “hotly contested” sale.

Sun expressed his excitement for acquiring the piece of art, which first debuted at Miami’s Art Basel back in 2019, with the exhibit becoming a viral internet sensation

drawing immense crowds.

“This is not just an artwork; it represents a cultural phenomenon that bridges the worlds of art, memes, and the cryptocurrency community,” wrote Sun on social media.

“I believe this piece will inspire more thought and discussion in the future and will become a part of history. I am honored to be the proud owner of the banana and look forward to it sparking further inspiration and impact for art enthusiasts around the world,” he added.

It is the buyer’s responsibility to replace the banana as it rots, with duct-tape and installation

instructions included in the purchase, but Sun already has plans in mind for his newfound art piece.

“Additionally, in the coming days, I will personally eat the banana as part of this unique artistic experience, honoring its place in both art history and popular culture.

Stay tuned!” he said. Three editions of “Comedian” were already created and sold, with at least two spectators in the past consuming the banana in other galleries around the globe.

Shortly after its first sale priced at $120,000 dollars in 2019, performance artist David Datuna from Georgia, pulled the banana off the wall and ate it in front of a

crowd, in an act he called “Hungry Artist.”

As a result, questions have circulated in regard to how the value of the artwork is derived, but David Galperin, head of contemporary art at Sotheby’s, told The Associated Press it stems from the certificate accompanying the purchase.

“What you buy when you buy Cattelan’s ‘Comedian’ is not the banana itself, but a certificate of authenticity that grants the owner the permission and authority to reproduce this banana and duct tape on their wall as an original artwork by Maurizio Cattelan,” Galperin said.

Living Hope Anza pastor preaches to students at Olivet University Campus

ANZA - Olivet University

Riverside’s main campus hosted guest preacher Pastor Kevin Watson during the Chapel service Wednesday, Nov. 13. Watson gave an emotional and inspiring sermon

to the school’s students, staff, faculty and pastors. His message, titled “Holiness,” drew from Isaiah 6:1-8 and urged attendees to reflect on the majesty and purity of God, calling them to

revere and pursue a life set apart for Him. Watson, the senior pastor of Living Hope Christian Fellowship in Anza, has served the Anza community since 2008. Under

his leadership, Living Hope Anza flourished, embracing global missions while actively supporting the local community. With a heart for outreach, Watson has fostered a ministry

Anza Community Hall annual Christmas Tree Lighting coming Dec. 7

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

The annual Anza Christmas Tree Lighting holiday celebration will take place at the Community Hall Saturday, Dec. 7 from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m.

Vendors will offer holidaythemed wares and a wide variety of food; free cookies and hot chocolate will be served and arts and crafts tables will be overflowing with creative opportunities.

Santa, Mrs. Claus and a battalion of elves will be on hand to gather intel on good little boys and girls. The Little Cheerleader squad will perform at 5:30 p. m.

Crews from the Anza Electric Cooperative, Inc. will illuminate the colorful lights draped on one of the huge cedar trees in front of the Community Hall at 6 p.m.

Many of Anza’s charitable organizations come together to present this fun-filled evening.

“We hope to see you there,” said Anza Community Hall director and event organizer Pebbles Lewis. “This is such a bright and exciting family event - full of great people, good will, warmth and holiday spirit.”

The Anza Community Hall succeeds with the support of the community. Hall board meetings are open to the public and everyone is encouraged to attend.

Members of the Anza Community Hall enjoy event discounts and support the Hall with their dues and ticket purchases. There are three ways to join:

An individual membership at $35 annually, with all discounts applying to one individual. A family annual membership costs $50 and provides discounts for a group of up to five related individuals. An annual business membership is $50 and provides discounts for up to 4 individuals. Cash, PayPal and checks are accepted as payment.

For more information on Anza Community Hall events, contact Pebbles Lewis at 951-760-9244.

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

To donate, please click https:// anzacommunitybuilding.org/ donations/.

The Anza Community Building, Inc. is located at 56630 SR-371 in Anza. Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia. com

The colorful lights are illuminated on the cedar tree in front of the Anza Community Hall at the Christmas Tree Lighting 2023.

Olivet University pastors join Pastor Kevin Watson and his wife Cindy in prayer after his sermon at Olivet University Wednesday, Nov. 13. Anza Valley Outlook/Courtesy photo that emphasizes both spiritual growth and practical support. In his message, Watson described God’s holiness as

Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo see PASTOR, page D-4

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 SR 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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MALINA GUGEL,

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Advertising Sales

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Production

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Digital Services

MARIO MORALES

certified farmers market. Market Manager Annika Knoppel can be reached at 951-234-1314 or email anzafarmersmarket@gmail.com

Anza Community Hall Swap

Meet - Every 1st and 3rd Saturday of the month. $15 for a spot with membership. $18 for a spot without membership. Vendors wanted. The hall is located at 56630 SR 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 SR 371, from 10:30-11:30 a.m. All are welcome. Cal-Fresh 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 951763-4333.

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 SR 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 SR 371, Anza. For more information, 951-763-4759.

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 SR 371 in Anza. Call 951-7635611 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

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. 18 through Nov. 21. Nov. 18

911 hang-up from cell phone3900 block Tamscott Dr., Anza, handled by deputy Burglary - 4300 block Cary Rd./St. Hwy. 371, Anza, handled by deputy Alarm call - 5600 block Johnson Rd., Anza, handled by deputy Alarm call - 5500 block St.

Hwy. 371, Anza, handled by deputy Nov. 19

Public disturbance - 3800 block Contreras Rd., Anza, handled by deputy Fireworks - address undefined, Anza, handled by deputy Public disturbance - 3900 block Cary Rd., Anza, handled by deputy Battery - 5300 block Ayers Wy., Anza, handled by deputy Nov. 20

Follow-up - address withheld, Anza, handled by deputy Area check - 4900 block Shoshone Ct., Lake Riverside, handled by deputy Vandalism - 4100 block Terwilliger Rd., Anza, report taken

Danger to self/other - 4200 block El Campo Rd., Anza, report taken

Assault w/deadly weapon -,4300 block Barbara Trl., Anza, arrest made

Recovery of stolen vehicle5400 block Hufford Rd., Anza, handled by deputy Public assist - 5700 block Mitchell Rd., Anza, handled by deputy Nov. 21

Public disturbance - address undefined, Anza, handled by deputy

Public assist - 4200 block Irons Rd., Lake Riverside, handled by deputy 911 hang-up from cell phone - 3900 block Boulder Dr./Ayers Wy., Anza, handled by deputy Miscellaneous criminal - 3900 block Tamscott Dr., Anza, handled by deputy

Check the welfare - 4900 block Shoshone Ct., Lake Riverside, 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)7913400.

Criminal activity can also be reported through the WeTip 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

an intense, unapproachable brilliance, akin to the blazing sun. He emphasized that God’s holiness transcends human comprehension and is the very core of His nature. Reminding believers that holiness is not just an attribute but the essence of God Himself, Watson called on Olivet students to approach God with reverence and to seek purity in their lives.

He shared personal reflections on his love for Jesus and his gratitude for the divine path that led him to marriage. Reflecting on his early prayers for Living Hope Anza before it was even established, he expressed his joy in witnessing how God has used the church to fulfill His mission. Drawing from Scripture, he stressed the importance of living a life consecrated to God’s holiness.

Watson explained that believers are made holy through Christ’s redemptive work and can stand confidently in God’s presence.

Holiness, he said, is both the identity and responsibility of Christians. Citing 1 Peter, he urged believers to resist sin, remain set apart from the world, and reflect God’s holy character. He reminded students of their calling to be “salt and light” in the world, embodying Christ’s holiness and glory.

In closing, Watson shared stories from his mission work in Nepal, India, and local outreach, testifying to the transformative power of God’s love and holiness. He encouraged students to consecrate their lives to God, letting go of worldly distractions to follow Jesus with wholehearted devotion. He prayed for the Holy Spirit to renew their hearts, deepening their faith and desire to walk in God’s holy light. After the sermon, the congregation gathered in prayer for Pastor Watson and his wife, Cindy, asking for blessings on their family and ministry.

Every Wednesday at 6 p.m., the Olivet students, faculty, and staff gather in the campus chapel for worship. These services feature sermons from faculty members and guest preachers. From November through January, pastors from churches in Anza are invited to share God’s word during the Wednesday Chapel, fostering fellowship in Christ and strengthening the community’s shared mission and faith. Contributed content.

Living Hope Anza’s Pastor Kevin Watson speaks to students at Olivet University Wednesday, Nov. 13. Anza Valley Outlook/Courtesy photos

Living Hope Anza’s Pastor Kevin Watson gives a sermon at Olivet University Wednesday, Nov. 13.

Living Hope Anza’s Pastor Kevin Watson discusses his faith with students after his sermon at Olivet University.

Students listen intently to Living Hope Anza’s Pastor Kevin Watson’s sermon at Olivet University

If you want answers, you have to look

Getting

fishing trip is one

of the year’s highlights. After five hours in the car, we were excited to get to our first fishing spot, ready to cast our lines and catch some trout. After fishing the first stream for a couple of hours, we decided to head back to the truck. The brush near the stream was thick, and as I turned to leave, I suddenly realized the truck keys were no longer attached to my hip. My heart sank as panic began to set in.

Looking back at the stream and the tangled brush, I had little hope of finding the keys. It was like a punch to the gut. We were in the middle of nowhere, and getting a replacement key wasn’t an option. I was sure I had ruined the trip for everyone. Still, I knew I had to try. Retracing my steps through

the dense brush, I searched and searched, but after forty-five minutes of crawling and combing the ground, I felt more hopeless than ever. I was convinced the keys were gone for good.

In a moment of desperation, I stopped crawling and started praying. On my hands and knees, I said, “God! No one can find these keys but You. Please help me, or I’ve ruined the whole trip.”

It was at that exact moment that I glanced to my right. Brushing some leaves aside, and there they were. I was beyond excited. It was a moment of pure joy and relief for me.

I immediately thanked God in prayer and hurried to let the other guys know I had found them. To me, it was nothing short of a

PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE PETITION TO ADMINISTER

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: YOLANDA ALVARADO Case No. PRIN2401378 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of YOLANDA ALVARADO

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by DIANA DIAZ in the Superior Court of California, County of RIVERSIDE. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that DIANA DIAZ be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court.

THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.)

The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the petition will be held on: Dec. 17, 2024 at 8:45 AM in Dept. No. PS3 located at 3255 E. Tahquitz Cyn Way, PALM SPRINGS, CA 92262.

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for petitioner: AVEDIS BEKHLOYAN ESQ, SBN322983, CARPENTER ; ZUCKERMAN, 8827 W. OLYMPIC BLVD, BEVERLY HILLS CA 90211-3613 CN111957 ALVARADO LEGAL# 4274

PUBLISHED: November 29, December 6, 13, 2024

ALVARADO LEGAL# 4273 PUBLISHED: November 29, December 6, 13, 2024

SUMMONS

heard unless you respond within 30 days. Read the information below. You have 30 CALENDAR DAYS to file a written response at the court referenced below and have a copy served on the plaintiff. A letter or phone call will not protect you. Your written response must be in proper legal form if you want the court to hear your case. There may be a court form that you can use for your response. You can find these court forms and more information at the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (https://selfhelp.courts. ca.gov/court-basics), your county law library, or the courthouse nearest you. If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the court clerk for a fee waiver form. If you do not file your response on time, you may lose the case by default, and your wages, money, and property may be taken without further warning from the court. There are other legal requirements. You may want to call an attorney right away. If you do not know 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 # 4272 Published: November 22, 29, December 6, 13,

miracle. Those keys were utterly lost, but God.

That time by the stream taught me an important lesson. It took two things to find those keys: First, I had to start looking, and second, I needed God’s help.

If you’re searching for answers in your life, you must start looking. And the best place to begin is with God.

The Bible says, “When you call on me and come and pray to me, I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” (Jeremiah 29:12-14)

Jesus also said, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: LOREN OLIVER PFAUTZ Case No. RIP090015

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of LOREN

OLIVER PFAUTZ aka LOREN O. PFAUTZ aka LOREN PFAUTZ A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by BUCK ROSS PFAUTZ in the Superior Court of California, County of RIVERSIDE. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that BUCK ROSS PFAUTZ be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. THE PETITION requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court. THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A HEARING on the petition will be held in the court as follows: DATE: 12/19/2024 TIME: 8:30 AM Dept: 11 Address of court: 4050 Main Street, Riverside, CA 92501, Riverside Historic Courthouse- Probate Division IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for petitioner: CHRISTINA GARCIA, ESQ, HELIX LAW FIRM, 7904 Broadway, Lemon Grove, CA 91945, 619-567-4447 LEGAL# 4277 PUBLISHED: November 29, December 6, 13, 2024 PETITION

PAUL HYER A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by ROCHELLE HYER in the Superior Court of California, County of RIVERSIDE. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that ROCHELLE HYER be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the petition will be held in the court as follows:

DATE: 12/30/24 TIME: 8:45 AM Dept: PS3 Located at 3255 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable

finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.” (Luke 11:9-10)

Looking back, I’m fully convinced I would never have found those keys without turning to God. It makes me wonder— what will God do for you once you’ve turned your whole heart toward seeking Him?

Today, choose to seek Him in all you do. Ask, seek, knock. Look for him like you never have before. That’s when the real miracles start to happen.

Zachary Elliott is the lead pastor of Fusion Christian Church in Temecula. For more information, visit http://www. fusionchristianchurch.com, http:// www.encouragementtoday.tv or find them on Instagram.

Zachary Elliott Special to the Valley News

away with good friends to do some fishing holds a special place in my heart. Our church’s annual men’s