City News Service Special to the Valley News
The famed “Festival of Lights” returned to Riverside for the Christmas season for the first time since 2019.
MENIFEE - Drivers of two vehicles in a five vehicle crash were critically hurt in a fivevehicle crash on Nov. 26. A total of nine people were involved, according to the Menifee Police Department.
contractor and a lifelong resident of Lake Elsinore.
“We have lost an admired and respected member of the EVMWD family” Greg Thomas, general manager of Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District, said. “His insights and contributions to the District and the community will be part of his legacy for years to come.”
Williams served as board
see WILLIAMS, page A-3
“Since its launch in July 2020, the Menifee Police Department has attracted the best and brightest officers and personnel from all across California,” said Chief Varso. “I believe the team here is well-suited to carry on the operations of the police department and continue its successful trajectory
Menifee
appoints Chris Karrer to interim police chief, Chief Varso to return to EscondidoCaptain Chris Karrer has been appointed interim Chief of Police by City Manager Armando Villa. Valley News/Courtesy photo Phil Williams Valley News/Courtesy photo
Riverside’s famed Festival of Lights returns after twoyear absence
Five vehicles involved in Menifee crash, two critically hurt
Two thousand families in the San Jacinto Valley enjoyed a Thanksgiving feast to remember due to the generosity of the Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians through its Soboba Foundation. For the fourth consecutive year, Founda tion members coordinated the event with assistance from local school district representatives and Soboba Casino Resort staff. This collaboration provided struggling and grateful families with all they need to enjoy the holiday.
San Jacinto Unified School Dis trict distributed vouchers to 800 families at its school sites as well as Betty Gibbel Regional Learning Center, St. Hyacinth Academy, San Jacinto Valley Academy and 65 for the Valley Community Pantry. Hemet Unified gave 1,000 families the opportunity to enjoy the holiday donation and included sites in outlying areas such as Anza and Idyllwild. About 200 meal boxes were provided to various nonprofits.
On Nov. 17, close to 100 volun teers spent the afternoon distribut ing food to voucher holders who drove through the San Jacinto Uni fied School District’s main parking lot, as well as directing traffic and checking in each vehicle. All food items were delivered on pallets by the district’s nutrition services personnel. Each food box was filled with a 20-plus pound frozen Butterball turkey, six-pound cans of corn and green beans, cran berry sauce, four pounds of frozen mashed potatoes, stuffing mix and a three-pound can of turkey gravy. A 12-count package of fresh din ner rolls and a frozen pumpkin pie rounded out the meal fixings.
SJUSD’s family & commu nity engagement specialist Carla Adame trains and supports the family liaisons at most of the school sites. They are the ones responsible for identifying and selecting the neediest of families to receive one of the Thanksgiving dinner donations.
“We definitely saw an increase in requests this year. We try to be sensitive to the demographics in determining who gets served,” Adame said. “My favorite part of this event is looking inside the cars and seeing if there are kids that I can say hi too since that is who this is for.”
Each box carried an approxi mate value of $120 had the fami lies purchased the items outright and Soboba Foundation coordi
nator Andrew Vallejos said it was important to help out this year due to inflation affecting everyone. He said he was happy that Sysco pro vided a good price on everything and that the Soboba Foundation came together and made it happen again this year.
“The Tribe is fortunate to be in a position to give back at a time when there is so much uncertainty in the economy,” Soboba Tribal Council Chair Isaiah Vivanco said. “Even now when food prices are up, we are happy that we are able to provide Thanksgiving dinners so families can enjoy this special time together and not have to worry about the cost of the meal.”
Soboba Tribal Council Vice Chair Geneva Mojado stayed busy at the pallet of pumpkin pies, making sure each roll cart that made its way down the assembly line of food items got what was needed. After all items were placed into one large box marked with a Happy Thanksgiving sticker, other volunteers hoisted them into wait ing vehicles.
“I enjoy seeing everyone come together for this event each year,” Mojado said. “We are grateful that we can help the community and students and their families are grateful, too. You can hear it in their voices when they thank us as they drive up.”
Soboba Tribal Council Secretary Monica Herrera said, “During this time of reflection as we prepare for the holiday, our Soboba family wants to provide other local fami lies with a full meal to enjoy, de spite these hard economic times.”
“It warms my heart to see all these families smiling and saying thank you as they receive their box of food,” Soboba Foundation
President Dondi Silvas said.
SJUSD Superintendent David Pyle volunteered to help fill the food boxes that were loaded into trunks and back seats of vehicles that drove through the District Of fice parking lot in two lanes.
“An incredible tradition has con tinued for yet another year,” Pyle said. “The support our families receive throughout the year on be half of Soboba is unmatched yearround and truly magnified during the holiday season. Providing over 800 Thanksgiving meals to many of our neediest families is yet an other example of Soboba’s above and beyond service to the San Jacinto Unified School District. We are hopeful this tradition will continue for many years to come.”
The following day, Hemet Uni fied School District’s main office
set up a distribution center so cho sen families could drive through and receive their boxes, which were prepackaged by HUSD nutrition services employees. The Business Services depart ment was highly involved in the entire process, including creating different signage and banners to remind families that Soboba was behind the turkey meals they were receiving.
Soboba Tribal Council Treasurer Daniel Valdez pitched in to help for a second day.
“It’s great to be back again this year. I always love contributing when I can,” he said.
Catie Stanley, who is the mar keting director for Soboba Casino Resort and a Hemet-San Jacinto Chamber of Commerce board member, recruited a dozen volun teers for the first day of distribution and at least 10 volunteers for the second day at HUSD. All sported turkey drumstick headbands and special Thanksgiving T-shirts.
“As a community member my self, I love this event,” Stanley said. “It is so much fun being able to see the people we are giv ing back to and we get to work together with our team members.”
Soboba Casino assistant general manager Jason Cozart was one of those that volunteered his time both days. Also a Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians Tribal member, he said he enjoyed helping out each year.
“Our doing this brings a lot of relief to families who are strug gling,” he said. “Anything we can do to help is a blessing. It also gives our team a chance to work together with the Foundation, it’s a team effort.”
As the coordinator of school,
family & community partnerships, Miriam Ortiz said she feels every one at HUSD who was involved with the event helped refine the processes so things were running smoother this year.
Emily Shaw, who is HUSD’s director of wellness and commu nity outreach, said, “I think the support that Soboba provides to our community is immeasurable. We are so grateful for their part nership because without them, we wouldn’t be able to do this. They always go over and beyond.”
Soboba Foundation Treasurer Julie Arrietta-Parcero said she likes that they are always able to help someone else out. Founda tion Secretary Antonia BrionesVenegas worked alongside Julie to keep the line of cars moving as items were placed in the vehicles, two at a time on each side of the canopy-covered pallets of food items.
“I like knowing that there will be kids that won’t go without because we are able to give them this food,” Antonia said. “To me, family gath erings for whatever reason mean a lot. I’m glad we do this.”
Another benefit to SJUSD re cipients was the inclusion of a care bag that included hand sanitizer, COVID-19 test kits and other items for a safe gathering. Those items tied into a door hanger that was put in each box, reminding parents and guardians that “Atten dance Matters” and the importance of keeping children home if they are sick but verifying all absences for possible follow-up by the dis trict nurse or school health office staff. HUSD also offered at-home COVID-19 test kits to each family as they checked in upon arrival.
Basil Maqbool loves the kitchen and has enjoyed cooking since he was a child. He is also no stranger to television studio kitchens, hav ing won “Top Chef Amateurs” in 2021. Now he is one of 11 featured home cooks on “America’s Test Kitchen: The Next Generation,” de buting Friday, Dec. 9, on Amazon Freevee. The 10-episode food com petition series will pit contestants against each other to determine who will win $100,000, write their own cookbook and enjoy a spot on the “America’s Test Kitchen” team.
“I never set out to be a profes sional cook, TV cook or competi tive cook. It just sort of happened, again,” Maqbool, 44, said. “A casting agent reached out via Insta gram, and I applied. I’m just a guy who loves to eat and loves to cook for family and friends.”
Born and raised in America, Maqbool grew up cooking along side his mother who immigrated here from Pakistan. He celebrates his heritage with flavors from his childhood and said the dishes pair nicely with any cuisine, especially Latin American and European.
Maqbool moved to Hemet in 1991 and Murrieta in 2001. He has been living in Winchester since
March 2021 and has owned and operated Vail Ranch Pharmacy in Temecula since 2008. As a pharma cist by training, Maqbool focuses on the science of food. He said he enjoys studying the chemistry of cooking and flavor and learning techniques like geometric mix ing in grad school, which helps to enhance his experiments in the kitchen.
He said he tends to mix things up when he’s cooking and said there are days when he wants something simple and quick and days when he will crave something he’s eaten somewhere and want to create a similar dish.
“Then there are days I just want to play and experiment using new techniques, new flavors and ingre dients, fusing cuisines together,” he said. “I cook at home often. I try at least a few times a week. Some weeks get busy and I don’t get to spend as much time in the kitchen as I would like too.”
He can be followed on Instagram @fatboytriestocook, where he shares many of his creations.
Maqbool said there were many highlights from the filming of “America’s Test Kitchen: The Next Generation,” from being in the test kitchen in Boston to meeting people he’s followed for years. The show is hosted by Daytime Emmy
“America’s Test Kitchen” icons Dan Souza, Elle Simone Scott, Jack Bishop and Julia Collin Davison.
“Working with guest judges like chef Karen, whom I look up to in the culinary world, was fantastic,” Maqbool said. “But most of all, I enjoyed being with the rest of the cast. We met and became instant family.”
The other 10 competitors are from throughout the United States and include four others from Cali fornia.
“The cameras are everywhere,” he said. “As you run around, you have to get used to yelling ‘behind’ or ‘coming through.’ The camera crew is really good about it too; they move around us to get the shots they need and not disturb our cooking.”
Maqbool said he was nervous, especially during the first challenge of the first episode when crew members were everywhere and he had to get used to a new kitchen, new equipment and new faces all the while being watched, timed and eventually judged.
“After a little while though, you hit a stride and it all fades away into the background,” he said.
He has many food favorites, but
he said he’s really into proteins and likes a good piece of meat with a veggie side, both to eat and cook.
“You won’t see much vegetar ian stuff outside of a side dish,” he added. “I definitely can’t do vegan; butter makes everything taste better.”
Maqbool said winning “Ameri ca’s Test Kitchen: The Next Gener ation” would help turn his passion into a career; something he’s been passionate about his entire life. If he wins, he said it will prove to himself that he is meant to be in the culinary space. With the prize money, he would build an outdoor kitchen and make more food con tent with the help of his wife and four children.
A unique aspect to this cooking competition is that audiences can interact with the program, trying their hand at the challenges in their own kitchens. According to a network news release, Freevee customers enjoying the series will be able to cook along with their favorite home chefs. Each week throughout the series’ initial air ing, the weekly challenge recipes and list of ingredients will be made available for customers to purchase on Amazon Fresh.
“America’s Test Kitchen” has been teaching home cooks how to be successful in the kitchen since 1993. Its mission is to empower and inspire confidence, commu nity and creativity in the kitchen.
America’s Test Kitchen” is located
in a state-of-the-art Boston facil ity with 15,000 square feet of test k itchen and studio space and is where Maqbool and the other home cooks filmed the series.
More than 50 test cooks exhaus tively test recipes until arriving at the best version. A panel of 60,000 highly engaged volunteer home cooks provide detailed feedback on the recipes to ensure they work ev ery time. “America’s Test Kitchen” also rates cookware and supermar ket ingredients to help home cooks select the best-quality products. The “America’s Test Kitchen” tele vision show launched in 2001, and the company added a second televi sion program, “Cook’s Country,” in 2008.
“America’s Test Kitchen Kids” launched in 2018 and offers books, subscription boxes and a website to educate the next genera tion of home cooks. Learn more at http://www.americastestkitchen. com.
In addition to the series, custom ers can now stream the “America’s Test Kitchen Specials FAST” chan nel, which includes 48 episodes of seasonally relevant content for the holidays. The channel, which launched Tuesday, Nov. 8, is exclusive to Freevee, with eight original episodes of “America’s Test Kitchen” featured alongside a set of exclusive content from the show’s archives. To learn more about Amazon Freevee, visit http:// www.amazon.com/freevee and follow @AmazonFreevee.
SAN DIEGO – With Christmas only 32 days away, Santa Claus and his postal elves are working closely on their plans to deliver a happy holiday to children through out southern California.
A key component of their plan is the U.S. Postal Service’s Op eration Santa wish fulfillment program, which kicked into high gear Monday, Nov. 28, when bene factors can begin adopting Santa letters from the website.
The USPS Operation Santa pro gram encouraged children to create and submit their Santa wish list letters for potential “adoption” by anonymous gift givers. Adopters can fulfill letter writers’ Christmas wishes by purchasing and sending
WILLIAMS from page A-1
president seven times over his 21 year tenure on the board. Williams’ priorities while serving on the EVMWD board focused on ensuring fiscal responsibility, increasing education and assistance opportunities and strategically managing local water supplies for a sustainable future. He was an advocate for water affordability, initiating with the board the district’s rate assistance program in 2015. He also worked tirelessly with local, state and federal agencies to ensure grants and funding for water reliability and sustainability projects needed for local infrastructure improvements. While serving on the board, Williams was a proponent for efficiency and service, taking part in key decisions to make improvements through customer service and communication strategy.
He served on the Engineer ing and Operations Committee,
them gifts on behalf of Santa.
Due to the skyrocketing prices of toys, clothing and other goods, many Southern California families may struggle to fulfill their chil dren’s holiday wishes this year. That’s where USPS Operation Santa comes in.
Southern California residents were encouraged to go online be ginning Nov. 28, to adopt letters submitted by children to USPS Operation Santa to help those children have a happy holiday.
Letters can be filtered by state. Details on how to adopt a Santa letter and a history of the program are available at http://USPSOpera tionSanta.com.
In 2021 more than 21,000 Santa
Legislation, Conservation & Out reach Committee and Finance and Administration Committee. He currently served on boards of the Lake Elsinore and San Jacinto Wa tersheds Authority, Bedford-Cold water Groundwater Sustainability Agency, ACWA JPIA and Local Agency Formation Commission.
“Phil Williams was a servant leader, our colleague, and most importantly, our friend,” Darcy Burke, president of the EVMWD board of directors, said. “His in stitutional knowledge was vast as well as his expertise; Phil knew a lot on just about every topic. He cared deeply for his family, com munity and the district. While we mourn the passing of our friend and colleague, our thoughts, and prayers are with his wife, Tammy, his children, grandchildren and all who loved him.”
District flags were flown at half-staff in honor of Director Phil Williams’ memory.
Submitted by Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District.
letters submitted to the program were adopted nationwide, includ ing 3,000 from California.
To participate in the program as a potential holiday gift re cipient, all children need to do is write a letter to Santa, put it in an envelope with a first-class mail Forever stamp, include their complete return address and send it to the USPS Operation Santa workshop address: Santa Claus, 123 Elf Road, North Pole 88888.
Letters must be postmarked by Monday, Dec. 12, and will be uploaded to the USPS Operation Santa website through Monday, Dec. 19, for potential adoption.
Here are some characteristics of a good letter to Santa. It’s legible.
It has a return address on both the letter and the envelope; make sure to include the full return address – apartment number, directional information such as East Main Street, Apt. 103, and ZIP code. It has specific requests, includ ing sizes, styles, colors, titles and names. It is addressed correctly. It has a postage stamp.
When someone writes a letter, it is opened by Santa’s postal elves, and for safety reasons, all person ally identifiable information of the letter writer is removed, including last name, address, ZIP code, and uploaded to http://USPSOpera tionSanta.com for adoption. There is no guarantee that letters submit ted to the program will be adopted.
Since its beginning in 1912, the USPS Operation Santa program has helped to connect millions of children and their families with generous adopters. In recent years, the program transitioned from a hard-copy program hosted by certain post offices to a digital program that allows customers to access Santa letters at the USPS Operation Santa website.
The Postal Service generally re ceives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.
Submitted by U.S. Postal Ser vice.
When Jessica Smith found her self faced with unfamiliar issues affecting her children, such as sui cide and human trafficking, she did not know where to turn for help.
It led her to create a community outreach nonprofit organization that offers free resources to help other families who find themselves in uncharted waters.
The main purpose of M.A.L.H.Y. Community Outreach Protective Services Inc. is to lead individuals “to accept their free spirit, redefine their freedom and create a posi tive personal survival journey.”
Providing free resources and ser vices for ages 10-25, its acronym represents several areas that will help young people reach their full potential.
Mental health is addressed by providing assistance for those that are seeking counseling so they may learn healthy coping skills. Addiction may lead to needing help with job placement, hous ing, food and clothing. Love is provided in a safe environment by agency personnel. Human traffick ing victims need help with medical exams, job placement, housing, food, clothing. Youth literacy is critical for self-sufficiency and is accomplished through workshops, sports camps, mediation services and more.
Although the Murrieta resi dent has been giving back to the local community since 2001, M.A.L.H.Y. officially became a nonprofit in March. As the mother of two daughters, 14 and 16, Smith said it is her personal experi ences that led to the creation of M.A.L.H.Y. where she serves as president.
“Before COVID-19, my daugh ters had a highly active lifestyle from soccer, church activities, volunteering in the community, family vacations, etc. COVID-19 stopped everything and my young est daughter, a sixth grader at the time, didn’t have the coping skills to understand what was going on,” Smith explained. “The isolation
and not being able to maintain the same lifestyle, which at that time defined her, caused her to become depressed and attempt to end her life.”
Smith said getting help for her daughter was made more difficult as she experienced a lack of mental health support for those who are 10-25 years old.
“Something awoke inside of me to create resources and services to help this age group,” she said.
“We, as a family, were already at tending therapy because my oldest, at the age of 10, was approached by a human trafficker on a social app she used to communicate with her friends. This person requested her as a friend on a social media game and convinced her to meet up with him at a local park. My mother instincts kicked in and I started looking at her phone and apps and uncovered the conversa tion and requested help by law
enforcement to stop my daughter from being kidnapped or harmed in some other way.
“I told myself if I stop my daughter from being kidnapped, I will create a program to help victims with housing, food, cloth ing, legal documents preparation, serving the legal documents, job placements, mediation, selfdefense, therapy, transportation and wellness checks,” Smith said.
And the idea for M.A.H.L.Y. was born.
“I want to help parents know they aren’t alone in this, and more especially, provide resources for the youths in need,” she said.
With a strong background in serving on the board of directors for various community-based organizations, Smith uses all her talents to offer free resources to those who need it most. She works
as a commercial lender for a local bank and has more than 20 years of banking experience. One of the reasons she added a Youth Literacy component to M.A.L.H.Y. is to help youths be knowledgeable with credit, purchasing a home and investments.
Headquartered in Temecula, the agency serves all of Southern California but is currently focus ing its efforts in Riverside and San Diego counties. Smith said the organization has become her life’s passion and purpose and she plans to dedicate 100% of her time to helping others. She is joined by a board of directors that each has experienced some aspect of M.A.L.H.Y. in their personal lives and have certifications to help with the nonprofit’s mission.
Secretary/Treasurer Charles “Chuck” Clarke Jr. served in the U.S. Navy for more than 20 years. He held the roles of Drug and Al cohol Program adviser and Suicide Awareness Prevention coordinator, ensuring that all sailors assigned to him were trained on and had access to all available resources the Department of Defense pro vides their servicemembers with substance abuse or mental health concerns. Clarke has a passion and commitment to serve others.
Event coordinator Romi Warren is a local entrepreneur, who loves to socialize around good vibes. She owns a ranch in the Wine Country of Temecula, where she maintains the power to control the narrative, and level of creativity on hosted events.
Community liaison Lucky has a literal hands-on approach as he has been using his hands to bless people physically, mentally and emotionally for 17 years through massage therapy. He also has had experience with mentally and emotionally abused women for the past 20 years. As a devoted husband and father, he strongly feels that it is the best way that he can give back to his community.
Volunteer coordinator JoyCe lina V. Smith enjoys being part of
social activities. The high school student is currently involved with water polo, Mock Trial, JROTC, Improv and a leadership role for Circle of Excellence. She is ex cited to be of service to her peers as an integral part of M.A.L.H.Y.
Because it is critical for Smith to offer services at no cost to those that need it most, she is always looking for ways to find funding, whether it be financial or in-kind donations, sponsorships or pledg es. She encourages involvement at any level. The group is currently collecting toys and gift cards for children ages 10-17 until Saturday, Dec. 17.
“We are personally giving them out to the community as we attend events for youth in need in Hemet, Perris, Lake Elsinore, San Jacinto, Murrieta and the surrounding areas,” Smith said. “M.A.L.H.Y. is advertising on social media and asking community partners to help us collect them. As of now, we have dispatched Santa’s elves to begin collecting items obtained from our generous donors. We hope to hear from many more.”
The nonprofit’s acronym also serves as a guideline to the stan dards its members and volunteers exhibit in administering all its programs, services and projects to help young people. M-Master of their own destiny, empower ing others through collaboration; A-Accountability. Owning re sponsibilities and tasks, estab lishing and managing appropriate expectations; L-Loving change. Committing to honesty, being fully prepared; H-Humility. Serving and supporting others; Y-Yielding Results. Actively listening to un derstand and being attentive and supportive.
Smith said M.A.L.H.Y.’s vision is, “To throw kindness around like confetti, leaving you smiling and nourishing the soul.”
For more information, visit http://www.malhy.org, 951-7040025 and at http://www.facebook. com/MALHYcommunityout reach.
RIVERSIDE Students in Riverside County in foster care settings or youth and their families who are at risk of homelessness or insecure housing are invited to the Riverside County Office of Education’s second annual Winter Wonderland event from 4:30-7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, at Harvest Christian Fellowship Riverside, 6115 Arlington Ave, in Riverside.
More than 1,000 foster and homeless youth are expected to de scend upon the grounds of Harvest Christian Fellowship Riverside that will be transformed into a magical and wintry wonderland.
Highlights of the free event in clude: real snow for sledding, ice skating, musical light show, hot cocoa station, carnival games, selfcare craft area and food booths.
Every child will leave with
a toy or gift. Registration is re quired. For more information about the free event, visit http:// www.rcoe.us/Winter-Wonderland
“The Winter Wonderland event is a way for all students to have something to look forward to this holiday season,” Edwin Gomez, Ed.D., Riverside County super intendent of schools, said. “This event represents an opportunity to wrap our community’s collec tive arms around students who are deserving of positive reinforce ment, loving kindness and a fresh reminder of the importance of hope for the future.”
The county thanked their partners, Harvest Christian Fel lowship, Santa Claus Inc, 1-2-3 Wellness and Western Riverside Council of Governments. To participate, contact the Riverside
support services.
County Office of Education Foster Youth Services Coordinating Pro gram at 951-826-4700 or fyscp@ rcoe.us
RCOE is a service agency sup porting the county’s 23 school districts that serve nearly 430,000 students – more than the student population of 17 states. RCOE services include administrative support to districts, programs for preschool, special education, pregnant minor, correctional, mi grant and vocational students. In addition, the organization provides professional training, support and resources for more than 18,000 teachers, administrators and staff throughout the 7,000 square miles of Riverside County. Learn more at http://www.rcoe.us.
Submitted by Riverside County Office of Education.
Captain Chris Karrer, who has served with the Menifee Police Department since its inception, has been appointed the interim Chief of Police by City Manager Ar mando G. Villa. Captain Karrer is a U.S. Marine veteran and has over 20 years of local law enforcement experience overseeing numerous divisions including patrol, traffic, investigations, operations, and
“It has been an honor serving Menifee along with the exception al men and women of the Menifee Police Department who selflessly put their lives on the line every day to protect our community,” said Karrer. “I look forward to building upon our success and continuing to grow the department with talented officers and support staff.”
Chief Varso’s last day with Me nifee will be Saturday, Dec. 17.
“During his short time here
in Menifee, Chief Varso made a strong positive impact on his officers and our community,” said Villa. “We thank him for his service and know the department will be in good hands under the direction of Captain Karrer.”
Captain Karrer will assume his new duties on Dec. 18. Next steps in the appointment of a permanent police chief are in development.
Submitted by the city of Menifee
and we are implementing many new strategies to continue to provide First Class Service.
Our goal remains the same: First Class Service and representation for your home sale and/or purchase. We have the experience and tools to negotiate the best offer and terms for you! Come on by our office and let’s discuss your real estate goals.
Lee + Ro, Inc., will design the Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District’s Goetz Road Intertie project which will provide an emergency interconnection to Eastern Municipal Water District infrastructure.
A 4-0 EVMWD board vote on Nov. 22, with the Nov. 20 death of Phil Williams creating a vacancy, approved a professional services agreement with Lee + Ro for $149,840. The board also authorized $39,574 for staff time and $749 for overhead, providing for total authorized expenditures of $190,172.
The Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District has two main sources of water supply to the Canyon Lake area which includes the Canyon Lake Water Treatment Plant and a 33-inch transmission main which crosses Interstate 15. The Canyon Lake Water Treatment Plant is currently offline, but an improvement project is currently in design and is planned to be completed in 2027. EVMWD staff developed two projects to improve system reliabil-
ity and redundancy for the Canyon Lake, Tuscany Hills, and Canyon Hills areas which would provide additional water supply sources to that part of the EVMWD service area.
Upgrades to the Lakeshore Booster Station, which is located along Lakeshore Drive west of Interstate 15 at Diamond Drive, will redirect flow to the Canyon Lake area through a waterline in the Franklin Street bridge; those upgrades which will be undertaken by EVMWD staff are in progress and are expected to be complete in early 2023.
The Goetz Road Intertie is the second project to improve system reliability in the Canyon Lake, Tuscany Hills, and Canyon Hills areas. An emergency interconnection with Eastern will be created along Goetz Road north of Railroad Canyon Road which would provide a second supply source along the east end of the Canyon Lake area.
A bidirectional meter will enable either district to provide water in an emergency situation. EVMWD and EMWD staff are working on an interconnection agreement which will be ratified in the future.
EVMWD staff solicited proposals for engineering design services for the Goetz Road Intertie project on August 25. Four proposals were received by the October 11 deadline. A review panel evaluated the proposals based on firm qualifications, experience, and project understanding. The panel found Lee + Ro, which is headquartered in the City of Industry, to be the best qualified firm for the project.
The design contract stipulates a performance period from Nov. 23, 2022, to Aug. 31, 2024. The Lee + Ro scope of work includes coordination with the City of Menifee and the City of Canyon Lake, preparation of environmental documentation (a Negative Declaration is expected), land surveying, a kickoff meeting, a technical memorandum providing preliminary plans, review of bid documents, and engineering services during construction. Geotechnical services will be subcontracted to Leighton Consulting of Temecula while Bess Testlab, which is headquartered in Hayward and has an Ontario office, will handle utility potholing.
Reserve funds for contingency or emergency expenditures by Riverside County government are expected to swell to an amount nearly $150 million greater than anticipated at the start of the current fiscal year, according to a report that the Board of Supervisors will review.
The Executive Office’s 22-page First-Quarter Budget Report for 2022-23 will be discussed as part of the board’s policy agenda.
compared to $1.013 billion estimated at the beginning of 2022-23, a $63 million increase, officials said.
Discretionary income is derived from property taxes, sales and use taxes, fees charged for documents, penalties and licenses, as well earnings from the treasury’s securities, mainly fixed-instrument investments.
Inflation has driven interest rates higher.
outlays the spilled over from the prior fiscal year.
In June, the board approved a $7.45 billion budget for 2022-23, roughly 8% larger than the 202122 budget of $6.88 billion. The bulk of that money is comprised of non-discretionary, or programmed, budget appropriations and includes “pass-through” revenue streams from the state and federal governments.
Hannah Hanford Valley News InternIvy Lanhardt, a dedicated sixteen-year-old dancer who trains five to six hours a day, was selected as a candidate for the Prix de Lausanne, an eminent international ballet competition in Switzerland, founded in 1973.
The competition is in Jan 2023 and is for dancers aged 15 to 18 years old.
Lanhardt, who started dancing when she was two, began doing full-time ballet at the age of thirteen.
With her passion for ballet and after being chosen for the competition in Switzerland, most of her time is spent dancing and training at the Academy of Ballet Arts in Murrieta. She says she chose the academy because it’s a school for aspiring ballet dancers. Lanhardt
says it was the right choice for her because they offer full-time ballet.
Ivy is a homeschooler, which she enjoys, and it affords her more time for ballet. With no other major activities on the side, she’s able to focus on her passion of dancing. In addition to ballet, she also takes Contemporary and Jazz.
As a result of being selected for the competition, she said she, “hopes to get some sort of offer for a year-round and also just [enjoy] the whole experience.”
When asked how she felt about being selected for the competition, she said, “I’m so excited. I was like so shocked when I found out. I woke up my entire house at like 5:30 in the morning. It still doesn’t feel real but I’m very excited.”
With hard work and determination, Lanhardt hopes to become a professional dancer.
Additional officers from the Menifee Police Department will be out on patrol Dec. 2 from 7 p.m. to 3 a.m. looking for drivers suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
“DUIs are extremely dangerous and can affect so many people with one bad decision made and that bad decision is driving impaired,” Chief Ed Varso said. “Driving while under the influence of alcohol, and/or drugs, is dangerous, potentially deadly and 100% preventable.”
Please arrange for a ride if you plan on drinking or designate a sober driver when going out, otherwise you may get arrested and face legal challenges.
Menifee Police Department reminds the public that impaired driving is not just from alcohol. Some prescription medications or
over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving. Always follow directions for use and read warning labels about driving or “operating heavy machinery,” which includes driving a car. While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal.
If you plan on drinking or taking medications that may impact your ability to drive safely, plan on staying at home. Driving sober is your safest bet.
Drivers caught driving impaired and charged with DUI will pay a stiff price: an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license.
Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The compendium’s highlight is the fact the county is now slated to end the current fiscal year with an estimated reserve pool of $511 million, compared to an earlier estimate of $368 million. The county ended the previous fiscal year with just under $300 million in reserves.
EO staff attributed the larger sum to high-than-expected interest rate earnings on county investments, elevated sales tax receipts and property tax revenue.
Aggregate discretionary revenue is projected to grow to $1.076 billion,
“While the projected outlook for the fiscal year is improving, we have challenges looming that will need to be addressed,” according to an introduction to the report. “We must continue to work toward growing healthy reserves as the economic future is uncertain.”
The budget report includes several recommendations from the Executive Office, including that the board approve $16 million in additional General Fund revenue to cover expenses stemming from capital improvement projects required by the Sheriff’s Department, and $1.9 million to amortize expenses incurred by the District Attorney’s Office for
The county received almost $500 million in 2020 Coronavirus Aid, Relief & Economic Security Act allocations and another $480 million in 2021 American Rescue Plan Act money, and county CEO Jeff Van Wagenen acknowledged that just under 10% of the federal infusions are being applied to “budget stabilization” in 2022-23.
The funds have been used for homeless and rental assistance programs, along with other social welfare efforts, but they’ve also been appropriated for multiple infrastructure, or capital improvement, projects.
The midyear budget report is scheduled to be released in February.
mission
MENIFEE – Menifee is kicking off the holiday season with three annual events including Xtream Light Fight, the Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Bazaar and Breakfast with Santa.
The Xtream Light Fight started Monday, Nov. 28. Residents began registering their decorated homes for the annual Menifee Xtream Light Fight sponsored by Mediacom. Categories include Best Theme, North Pole Neighbor, Inflatable Fun, Clark Griswold and
Community Favorite. Contestants can register online at http://www. cityofmenifee.us/specialevents
Entries will be accepted through Sunday, Dec. 11. Residents can vote for their favorites through an interactive map on the city’s website between Wednesday, Dec. 14, and Sunday, Dec. 18. Winners will be announced on social media and the city’s Special Events webpage Monday, Dec. 19.
Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Bazaar, the city’s annual tree
lighting ceremony, will take place Saturday, Dec. 3, from 4-8 p.m. at Mt. San Jacinto College, 28237 La Piedra Road, in Menifee. This year the city is providing enhanced experiences for the whole family including an enlarged snow zone, walking entertainment and a train for families to ride. The event will also have multiple photo opportunities, including photos with Santa. This event is free to the public and will provide activities that the whole family can enjoy. Ad-
Breakfast
will be back at the
Ceniceros Senior Center, 29995 Evans Road, Saturday, Dec. 10, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. Each participant above the age of 2 is required to be registered, as space is limited. The price per attendee is $12. Regis-
tration is available at http://www. cityofmenifee.us/specialevents
All guests can take a photo with Santa and participate in different activities and crafts throughout the breakfast.
For more information, contact the Community Services Department at http://www.cityofmenifee. us/specialevents, email communityservices@cityofmenifee.us or call 951-723-3880.
Submitted by city of Menifee.
To submit an upcoming community event, email it to valleyeditor@reedermedia.com, put “attention events” in the subject line.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
Dec. 2 – 4-9 p.m.Get ready for Made Local’s family-friendly Holiday Market. The Night Market Before Christmas will be held at Mercato Del Sole, 30141 Antelope Road, in Menifee. Enjoy holiday shopping with local vendors, live music, delicious food, drinks, treats and children’s activities such as photos with Santa, an ugly sweater contest and more. For more information, visit http:// www.MadeLocalMarket.org.
Dec. 2 – 6-9 p.m. Herrkooled VW Club Meet Up. Local VW club meet up at Vail Headquarters in Temecula, 20+ cars expected will be parked out in the main courtyard.
Dec. 2 – 7 p.m. Santa’s Electric Light Parade in Temecula beginning at Del Rio Road and through Old Town Temecula, presented by the Temecula Community Services Department. Visit http://TemeculaCA.gov/Events.
Dec. 3 – 9-10:30 a.m. Attend Donuts with Santa at Town Square Park, 11 Town Square, in Murrieta. Admission is one non-perishable food item per child. Donuts are first come, first served to the first 400 children.
Dec. 3 – 3:30-8:30 p.m. Lake Elsinore Winterfest will be held downtown. The holiday parade starts at 5 p.m. and the tree lighting ceremony begins at 7 p.m. at the corner of Heald and Main streets. Sled runs will be offered on the corner of Sulphur and Main streets. Santa’s Village will be open for visitors and photos inside the Cultural Center, 183 N. Main St.
Dec. 3 – 4-8 p.m. Temecula Chilled Holiday Market. It’s the most wonderful time of the year at Vail Headquarters for the annual Temecula Chilled Holiday Market. Visit to see this beautiful Historical Property dazzling with lights and snap a photo with Mr. & Mrs. Claus! Activities for all the good girls and boys, vendors for those on your list, and even more to be announced!
Dec. 3 – 8 p.m. Menifee Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place at Mt. San Jacinto College’s Menifee campus, 28237 La Piedra Road. Details are avail-
able in Hello Menifee on the city website.
Dec. 3 – 5 p.m. The Hemet and San Jacinto Candyland Christmas Parade route will begin on Gilbert Street and Florida Avenue and go east to Santa Fe Street through downtown Hemet and end at Weston Park with holiday activities.
Dec. 4 – 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday Funday. Join in family fun and entertainment at Vail Headquarters. Mr. and Mrs. Claus will be there! Dec. 10 – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Come take photos with Santa at the Motte Historical Museum, 28380 Highway 74, in Menifee. Bring a camera or mobile device and take photos with Santa while visiting the Motte Vintage/Classic Car & Community History Museum. Tour the museum; admission is free. For more information, call 951-928-3210 or visit http://www. mottemuseum.com.
Dec. 10 – 3-8 p.m. Thistle and Sage “Cowboy Christmas” Vegan Market at Vail Headquarters. Market will feature vegan-friendly vendors and food as well as activities.
Dec. 15 – 5 p.m. The Temecula on Ice grand opening will take place on Main Street in Old Town Temecula. Follow @TemeculaParksAndRec on social media and visit http://TemeculaCA.gov/ TCSD.
ONGOING – Menifee offers in-city or out-of-city special event vendor applications online or at Menifee City Hall to apply for signature and other special events.
Contact Menifee City Hall, 29844 Haun Road, at 951-672-6777 or businesslicensing@cityofmenifee. us.
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 – Sun City Civic Association Monthly Square Dance sessions are held Sundays from 1:30-5 p.m. at 26850 Sun City Boulevard in Sun City.
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 800510-2020 for help.
ONGOING – The Riverside County COVID-19 Business Assistance Grant Program is accepting online applications for business grants up to $10,000 at http://www.rivercobizhelp.org that can be used for employee retention, working capital, personal protective equipment purchases, rent or mortgage payments and paying vendor notices. Eligible businesses, including nonprofits, must be in Riverside County, with a minimum of one but less than 50 employees and operating for at least one year since March 1. For more information, call Riverside County Business and Community Services at 951-955-0493.
ONGOING – 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The Temecula Winchester Swap Meet continues at 33280 Newport Road in Winchester, Saturdays and Sundays only. Entry at the small local swap meet is 50 cents, 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 are allowed.
WORKSHOPS. MEETINGS, NOTICES
Dec. 2 to Dec. 11 – 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. See “A Christmas Carol,” a presentation of the Dickens classic for tots to adults, from Temecula Valley Players in the Old Town Temecula Theater, 42051 Main St., in Temecula. Tickets are $18 to $24 online or at the box office. Visit http:// Temeculatheater.org. Dec. 7 – 6:30-8 p.m. Sun City Community Drum Circle meets the first Wednesday each month at Center for Spiritual Living Menifee Valley, 26805 Murrieta Road in Sun City. Bring an instrument or borrow one with a $5 donation recommended. All are welcome.
ONGOING – Want to help deployed American troops remotely? Shop for their most needed items without leaving home for 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 http:// www.milvet.org/military-carepackages.
ONGOING – Multiple Sclerosis Support Group Meeting meets the third Monday of each month at the Mary Phillips Senior Center, 41845 6th Street, in Temecula from 10 a.m. to noon. For more information, email gaugustin206@ gmail.com or join the meeting.
ONGOING– Sons of Norway/ Scandinavia meets at noon the first Saturday of every month, September to June, at the Heritage Mobile Park Clubhouse, 31130 S. General Kearny Road., in Temecula. A potluck lunch is followed by a cultural program and short business meeting. Please come and enjoy company with fellow Scandinavians. Call 951-3091597 or 951-849-1690 for more information.
ONGOING – Noon to 1 p.m. Attend Murrieta Wildomar Chamber of Commerce’s weekly business briefing via Zoom or watch live on Facebook every Wednesday. Registration required at https://bit.ly/MWCBizBriefing
The chamber business briefing is an opportunity to hear from city, county and business leaders about current and relevant business information.
ONGOING – Menifee Community Services offers online driver’s education courses for a $21.95 fee. The course includes animated driving scenarios, instructional videos, sample test, 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 http:// www.city of menifee.us.
ONGOING – 10 to 11:30 a.m. Michelle’s Place Cancer Resource Center and The Elizabeth Hospice host a virtual support meeting for caregivers every second and fourth week of the month via Zoom. Get helpful tips and learn from others who are also dealing with similar challenges. For more information and to register, contact The Elizabeth Hospice Grief Support Services at 833-349-2054.
ONGOING – Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous, a free 12step recovery program for anyone suffering from food obsession, overeating, undereating or bulimia, has meetings throughout the U.S. and the world. Contact 781932-6300, or for local meetings, call 925-321-0170 or visit http:// 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 http://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 http://www.MenifeeToastmasters.org for more information.
LeAnn Rimes sold more than 48 million units globally, won two Grammy Awards; 12 Billboard Music Awards; two World Music Awards; three Academy of Country Music Awards; two Country Music Association Awards and one Dove Award. At 14, Rimes won “Best New Artist” making her the youngest solo artist to take home a Grammy Award, and at 15, she became the first country artist to win “Artist of the Year” at the Billboard Music Awards.
Out of the 42 singles she has released throughout her expansive career, LeAnn’s ballad “How Do I Live” holds the record as Billboard’s Hot 100 all-time No. 1 hit by a female artist and continues to rank No. 4 on Billboard’s “Greatest of All Time: Hot 100 Song.” Fifteen of her multigenre singles are top-10 hits, including “Can’t Fight the Moonlight,” which went No. 1 in 11 countries. In 2017, the world-renowned sing-
er released
peaked at No. 3 on
charts in its first week, garnered two No. 1 Billboard Dance hits with “Long Live Love” and “LovE is LovE is LovE,” and one Top 5 hit with “Love Line.” In fall 2018, Rimes revealed a new EP for her fans titled “Re-Imagined” that featured five new versions of some of her recordbreaking hits, including an epic duet with the music icon Stevie Nicks.
The Grammy-winning superstar also unveiled her first-ever live recording as an exclusive vinyl release in honor of the 2019 Record Store Day titled “Rimes: Live at Gruene Hall” where Rimes celebrated music of all genres. She released her latest studio album, “God’s work,” in September 2022.
The show will start at 8 p.m. Reserved tickets are $55, and general admission tickets are $35. This show is just one of a lineup of headliner and tribute concerts that will be held at the indoor Events Center, with tickets on sale now for all events.
Submitted by Pala Casino Spa Resort.
Like the cozy restaurant setting of “The Menu,” the theater at my screening of the film this past Friday, Nov. 18, was sparsely populated. But though the attendance was small in number, there was an unusual sense of kinship in the air. Laughs and groans could be attributed to individual audience members, as well as occasional biting comments, including one of my own, after the movie. I think we all got a sense of what made one another tick. One thing was for certain: like the characters in the movie, we were all in this intense experience together.
The film follows audience surrogate Margot, played by Anya TaylorJoy, as she journeys with her date Tyler, played by Nicholas Hoult, to a private island that boasts the upscale restaurant Hawthorne. Other diners include a food critic, played by Janet McTeer; a movie star, played by John Leguizamo, and other affluent types. The group is greeted by no-nonsense maître d’ Elsa, played by Hong Chau, who leads them into the dining room, where they meet world-renowned chef Julian Slowik, played by Ralph Fiennes. Slowik will be in charge of everything this evening from the food to the entertainment. Both may be suited more to his tastes than the guests’.
Opinions are mixed on a first course that includes a rock and a second course of absent bread. Everybody is uncomfortable with a third course of incriminating tortillas and a story of violence from Slowik’s past. The real game-changer comes with the
fourth course, which includes a demonstration of violence rather than a story. Slowik’s intentions soon become clear: he and the staff of Hawthorne are going to kill everyone, including themselves and all the customers. But first, he’s going to break his elitist guests’ spirits, “play with his food” as it were, though I will shoot down a popular theory and say that his plan does not involve cannibalism.
Simply put, Julian Slowik is the most memorable movie villain of the year – maybe of the last several years. Fiennes imbues the character with menace, wit, humor and most of all, charisma. He has an entire kitchen staff under his thumb and seemingly an entire restaurant full of victims as well.
Nobody beside Margot makes a whole-hearted attempt to escape. Nobody even needs to be tied down. Heck, nobody even complains when they’re billed before
dessert. It could be argued that the patrons know they’re no match for the large henchmen stationed at the exits or that they realize that they deserve what they’re getting, but I think it has more to do with them all wondering with morbid curiosity what’s coming next from Slowik’s kitchen of surprises. That’s why the rushed ending was such a disappointment for me. I was hoping Slowik’s plan for the characters’ fates would be a little more… individually catered.
While Fiennes does give the standout performance in “The Menu,” I don’t want to short-change Taylor-Joy and Hoult. Margot doesn’t fit in with the crazed staff or the snooty guests and Slowik’s one imperfection is that he himself doesn’t know what to do with this fellow member of the service industry. As for Tyler, he’s more excited about being allowed to dine under Slowik’s roof than with the beautiful woman sitting across from him. In a movie where half the characters are trying to commit murder, he’s somehow the most detestable for his simple condescension. The characters’ eccentricities, mind games and dark humor all come together to make “The Menu” one of the best films of the year. Not bad for a movie whose entire point is that cheeseburgers are a joy and an honor to serve.
Grade: B
“The Menu” is rated R for strong/disturbing violent content, language throughout and some sexual references. Its running time is 107 minutes.
Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@ nyu.edu.
The SAGE Society of Hemet will feature harpist Paula King at its Tuesday, Dec. 13, program. She will perform selections from contemporary music and Celtic folk ballads and share the unique journey the beautiful instrument has taken her on throughout the years.
“I have found the harp ‘calls’ you,” King said. “My mother bought my first harp at an estate sale and declared ‘my daughter will play the harp someday!’ I was an infant at the time. After all these years, it’s the beauty, the unique sound and the magic of the instrument that still attracts me.”
She has been playing harp in the San Jacinto Valley area for more than 20 years. A 2003 graduate of the International Harp Therapy Program, she has worked in all areas of therapeutic harp, including hospice, hospital, nursing homes and with recovery groups such as the Betty Ford Clinic in Palm Desert. She has a continuous contract with several memory care centers for their sing-along groups, which she has been enjoying for more than 10 years.
“It’s hard not to react to an intense situation, with family members or staff but having a 25-year career in the healthcare field, aside from harp, does help,” King said. “It’s also being able to be present in the moment, mindful of the work that I’m doing and perform with intentionality. That doesn’t mean that I don’t shed tears when the emotions arise. But I’m also very aware and respectful of why I’m there, to be the conduit for the music and allow the patient or those present to receive what they need from the therapeutic playing.”
group Serenata Skye in the mid2000s, King performed through out the southland with a group of fellow talented musicians that blended their musical styles and experience.
King is currently performing as one half of the duo Strawberry Creek in the Idyllwild area. The other half is guitarist and singer Mo Mullins. King said they perform original compositions as well as music by Joni Mitchell, the Eagles, Chris Stapleton and Tears for Fears. After living in Idyllwild for several years, King returned to the San Jacinto Valley and currently is part of the worship team at Community Christian Church in Hemet.
“I’ve been so blessed to be part of the group there for about a year. I use my harp as part of the band and sing vocals as well,” King said.
She said the biggest challenges of playing harp are the body position, technique, sense of rhythm and self-discipline to practice when the going gets rough.
“I guess that would apply to any instrument, but harp requires you to play something horizon tally, four fingers only, while sight reading and developing muscle memory to often play in opposite directions as you reach for strings you can’t see very well at times. Now add pedals to change keys, operated by lowering or raising with your feet (for the pedal harp),” she said.
King started lessons at an early age, but was very shy and found it incredibly difficult to perform in front of anyone due to anxiety, so she stopped for many years.
“But I’ve had the honor of taking lessons from several great teachers,” King said. “My last was Pat Lipka, an instructor here in the San Jacinto Valley who taught harp and piano until about 2010.”
When King first began playing,
the tunes her teachers chose for her were written for Celtic harp. She has a harp book written in the early 1930s for Irish Harp. She didn’t play a pedal harp until much later on.
“The lever, or Celtic harp, today is enjoying incredible popularity,” she said. “There is a great body of work now written specifically for a beginner/intermediate lever harp ist. Back when I was first learning, sometimes we had to transpose simple piano tunes, as there wasn’t much available.”
King has several harps that she takes out for public playing, each serving different purposes and situ ations. She has a pedal harp for fan cier occasions or when she needs to play in keys she can’t get into with her lever harps. Her key changing and sharping/flatting notes can be done from pedals on the bottom of the harp. She has a 22-string folk harp that she uses for her bedside work and for taking to Bluegrass jams; a 34-string carbon fiber lever harp with lights; a 34-string wooden harp for warmer tones that she’s been using for many years and a 33-string electric harp, a unique instrument that is similar to an electric guitar that needs an amplifier for sound. She stands to play it since it sits safely balanced on a stand.
“I also have a double strung harp with a total of 58 strings. It has a parallel set of strings on each side and when I play it, it sounds like two harps playing,” King said. “At one time I had 13 harps but have sold a few to good homes. They do lend themselves to different musical styles, but I can easily play any kind of music on each one. Every time I use them, they have to be tuned. And in between sets if I’m performing. I have an electronic tuner I take everywhere with me.”
For her appearance at the SAGE
Society program, she will be playing her double strung harp as well as her 22-string harp. She will demonstrate how she plays them, along with spreading some musical holiday cheer.
“It’s said a good Celtic harpist should be able to get you to laugh, to cry and to dance,” King said. “That’s a tall order but when I see that happening, it brings me joy.”
The SAGE Society program begins Tuesday, Dec. 13, with a social
time at 1:30 p.m., followed by the free presentation at 2 p.m. at the Ramona Room, 1501 W. Florida Ave. in Hemet. Parking is behind Miller-Jones Mortuary.
The Search for Adventure in Greater Education Society pro vides a forum for people to en gage in programs and activities of intellectual stimulation. For more information, contact Bob Chaparro at 951-265-2482 or chiefbobbb@ verizon.net
The second annual Ramona Courtyard Christmas will be held Friday and Saturday, Dec. 9-10, from 5-9 p.m. at the Ramona Bowl in Hemet. Along with some favorite activities and performances from 2021, the event will feature several new ones. Visitors can look forward to vendors selling all sorts of items, including lots of Christmas gift ideas. Enjoy live entertainment and music, as well as Christmas carolers, Santa Claus, the Grinch, crafts for children, Christmas tree lighting, holiday treats, beer/wine and holiday sangria and more.
Debradawn Shockey, chair of the Centennial Celebration Committee, said the community is welcome to attend the upcoming 100th season of “Ramona,” California’s official outdoor play and she is excited to be part of the holiday celebration.
“This year we have included mingling live Dickens characters, Christmas trees available to decorate and donate to needy families with a further opportunity to support the community by offering one free admission ticket for that evening’s event to anyone donating an unwrapped gift for My City Youth,” she said. “We have licensed concessions professionals serving up yummy goodies. They are led by Ramona’s own very skilled Kelli Carter, whose years
of devotion to the Ramona Bowl have been unwavering.”
The idea for the event was proposed last holiday season by board members Kami Martin and Norm Kyriss, who offered to head up a Christmas event to utilize the recently renovated courtyard at the Ramona Bowl. Shockey had re cently joined the Ramona advisory board and said she wanted to assist her best friend Kami Martin. The pair had formed the Harvard Street Theatre Company at the Diamond Valley Arts Center in 2019.
“Part of the mission of the Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre is to ‘contribute to tourism and continu ing educational programs through quality outdoor theater entertainment,’” Shockey said. “Kami and I are two of the few volunteers on the boards at Ramona with a background in the theater, and as we have our own company of performers, the idea of giving them the chance to shine at Ramona during the holidays was thrilling.”
Preparations for the Christmas festivities began as soon as the Boo at the Bowl Halloween event ended, as 50 volunteers began dec orating, cleaning, organizing and directing. The board of directors helped too, including president Norm Kyriss, vice president Elena Kern, treasurer Vince Record, sec retary Kami Martin and members Linda Krupa, Joe Grindstaff and Larry Salas.
“Their dedication to all things Ramona is remarkable and in
spiring,” Shockey said. “Many volunteers have started the task of laying out the hundreds of strands of Christmas lights and placing every piece of decor, including, crazy enough, three and a half foot, white peacocks.”
Longtime “Ramona” supporter and board member Lori VanA rsdale said all of the Christmas decorations were donated by former board member Rick Crimeni’s daughters after he died. Rick owned the Arrangement Gallery for years, and VanArsdale said he used to decorate Hoag Hospital in Orange County for Christmas and also did a lot at Pechanga Resort Casino.
“Rick had always wanted to do something for Christmas at the Bowl and I know he would be very pleased with what is going on with the Ramona Courtyard Christmas event,” she said. “When his daugh ters, Marissa and Brianna, asked me if the Bowl would like to have the decorations I was blown away when they opened the door to a 15-foot by 30-foot storage facility filled to the brim with all of the amazing decorations you will see in the Courtyard.”
Visitors to the Christmas cel ebration can expect to see char acters from “Ramona” such as Señora, played by Kathi Anderson, as well as Ramona, played by Kayla Contreras, and Alessandro, played by Eli Santana. Aunt Ry, who is being played by Shockey in the upcoming centennial season,
Roger Boddaert Special to the Valley News
Gardeners who are considering converting gardens to xeriscape can use this information to decide whether to do it themselves or to work with a professional. The key is planning the new direction in sav ing water, having a pleasant garden setting and enjoying a sustainable atmosphere.
Start with a simple process, work ing with a plan of action and educa tion. Begin with a clean-up of trash, weeds, dead plants, old garden
furniture and nonessential items sprinkled around the landscape. Take one section at a time and complete it through teamwork with family and friends.
Set goals and retain any hardscape in the landscape you want to keep, like walkways, fences and walls, and leave the irrigation system that you can retrofit to the new theme as you proceed. Perhaps start with the front yard and work your way to the rear garden.
Retain the plants that will fit as part of the future theme for the new garden, if they are drought tolerant.
Once the garden has a clean slate, envision the new direction. Measure the site and use graph paper of a quarter inch equal to 1 foot in scale. Use your smartphone to find the true north for a compass.
Two days before digging, call 811 or visit https://www.digalert. org/ and make a request for the underground utilities to be marked. Lay out the elements you want to retain on the conceptual sketch plan with various symbols. flag all irrigation heads, drainage and see GARDENS, page B-5
The Eastern Municipal Water District approved the water supply assessment for the Core5 Industrial Warehouse project.
The EMWD board voted 4-0 Wednesday, Nov. 16, with Randy Record absent, to authorize the water supply assessment which addresses whether the projected normal, single dry year and multiple dry year expected supply over a 20-year period can meet the demand for the project along with existing and other planned projects. The water supply assessment will be incorporated into the environmental impact report for the project. Core5 Industrial Partners LLC is the developer of the Core5 Industrial Warehouse project while the city of Menifee is the lead agency for the EIR.
The Core5 Industrial Ware house project would construct an industrial warehouse building on approximately 44 acres south of Ethanac Road between Dawson
Road and Antelope Road. The total anticipated annual water demand for the project is 27.09 acre-feet. Eastern’s most recent Urban Water Management Plan which was adopted in June 2021 anticipated an annual demand of 152.73 acre-feet for what was designated warehouse and heavy industrial land uses, so the water supply assessment indicates that Eastern can provide adequate water supplies to meet the projected water demand.
The Urban Water Management Plan forecasts anticipated sup plies and demand in five-year increments through 2045, when the district is expected to provide service to approximately 1,131,300 people. The projected EMWD demand is 204,800 acre-feet in 2025 and 239,200 acre-feet in 2045.
The specific facilities needed to serve the Core5 Industrial Ware house water demands will be addressed in the project’s design conditions phase.
Joe Naiman can be reached by email at jnaiman@reedermedia. com.
underground electrical components that exist so as not to damage them in the digging process.
Start by removing grass without harmful chemicals and retaining healthy soils when possible. Rent a sod cutter for this process to make it easier. The county offers some rebates for homeowners who are removing turf and planning a new water-wise landscape.
As you contour the land, move your soil around to capture any rainfall flow and watershed from the surrounding areas. Consider mound ing the dirt to give the ground some personality, a unique feature and maybe import soil if more is needed.
With sloping terrain, gardeners must consider how erosion might affect your property and channel any runoff into the watershed of the garden setting. Consider a rain barrel to capture water runoff from the roof and gutter system.
Southern California has many temperature ranges, so understand ing your climate zone will govern your plant selections.
What type of soil do you have, clay, alluvial, sandy or decomposed
granite? Consider getting the soil tested, for soil structure and nutri ents are the foundation of any good xeriscape landscape, and I suggest having the soil tested professionally.
Good soil is the earth’s food web, comprising fungi, arthropods, bacte ria and mycorrhizae of many types.
Healthy soils will give you a healthy garden down the road. I believe in feeding the soil, not the plants, for the soil is where all energy will be uploaded into plants of all types.
You can go online to find many “waterwise” sites with plant lists to investigate for your new landscape.
You might visit a nursery to look at the plants that fit your interests and the criteria that work for your new dream garden of the future.
For some research, an excellent read is “Hot Color, Dry Gardens” by Nan Sterman. This book will lead you through the step-by-step process
of xeriscaping.
The San Diego Botanical Garden in Encinitas is an excellent outing for all sorts of ideas on plants, their looks, their sizes and their ultimate growth range.
The California Botanic Garden in Claremont will display native plantings with various water-saving layouts.
The landscape at the Palomares house in Fallbrook will show you some looks, plants and creative ideas to consider.
“A true conservationist is a man who knows that the world is not given by his fathers but borrowed from his children,” John Madison said.
Roger Boddaert is a landscape consultant who can help gardeners in the art of xeriscaping; he can be reached at 760-728-4297.
The Eastern Municipal Water District approved the environmen tal mitigated negative declaration for the Golden Meadows Parkway Tanks Project.
The 4-0 EMWD board vote Wednesday, Nov. 16, with Randy Record absent, adopted the project initial study, mitigated negative declaration and Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program. The Golden Meadows Parkway Tanks Project will construct two tanks off the future Golden Meadows Parkway in the city of Menifee with each tank having a 2 million gallon capacity.
The tank construction will be phased with one tank being built in each phase. The Phase I tank will provide water storage and con veyance capacity for the planned Golden Meadows community while the Phase II tank will ac commodate future EMWD capacity needs and will help manage uncertain delivery conditions and
emergency outages. Each tank will be 43 feet high and 103 feet in diameter. The project will also include a detention basin, a water pipeline between Golden Mead ows Parkway and the tanks, an overflow pipeline from the tank to the detention basin and an access road 20 feet wide from Golden Meadows Parkway to the tank pad site. Richland Communities will finance the construction of the Phase I tank while the Phase II tank will utilize EMWD capital improvement funding.
Mitigation measures were identified to reduce potentially sig nificant impacts for biological resources, geology and soils, cultural resources and wildfires to less than significant levels. The draft environmental documenta tion had a 30-day public review period from Aug. 15 to Sept. 14. None of the comments received altered the significance findings of the draft environmental.
Joe Naiman can be reached by email at jnaiman@reedermedia. com.
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For a limited time, readers of this paper will receive a special discount on a full chimney cleaning and safety inspection package with special attention given to chimney water intrusion points in preparation for the wet & rainy season.
NEW YORK (AP) — The company tasked with locking down the assets of the failed cryptocurrency exchange FTX says it has managed to recover and secure $740 million in assets so far, a fraction of the potentially billions of dollars likely missing from the company’s coffers.
The numbers were disclosed on Wednesday in court filings by FTX, which hired the cryptocurrency custodial company BitGo hours after FTX filed for bankruptcy on Nov. 11.
The biggest worry for many of FTX’s customers is they’ll never see their money again. FTX failed because its founder and former CEO Sam Bankman-Fried and his lieutenants used customer assets to make bets in FTX’s closely related trading firm, Alameda Research. Bankman-Fried was reportedly looking for upwards of $8 billion from new investors to repair the company’s balance sheet.
Bankman-Fried “proved that there is no such thing as a ‘safe’ conflict of interest,” BitGo CEO Mike Belshe said in an email.
The $740 million figure is from
Nov. 16. BitGo estimates that the amount of recovered and secured assets has likely risen above $1 billion since that date.
The assets recovered by BitGo are now locked in South Dakota in what is known as “cold storage,” which means they’re cryptocurrencies stored on hard drives not connected to the internet. BitGo provides what is known as “qualified custodian” services under South Dakota law. It’s basically the crypto equivalent of financial fiduciary, offering segregated accounts and other security services to lock down digital assets.
Several crypto companies have failed this year a s bitcoin and other digital currencies have collapsed in value. FTX failed when it experienced the crypto equivalent of a bank run, and early investigations have found that FTX employees intermingled assets held for customers with assets they were investing.
“Trading, financing, and custody need to be different,” Belshe said.
The assets recovered include not only bitcoin and ethereum, but also a collection of minor cryptocurrencies that vary in popularity and value, such as the
The FTX Arena name is still visible where the Miami Heat basketball team plays Saturday, Nov. 12, 2022, in Miami. Lawyers for FTX disclosed Tuesday that a “substantial amount” of assets have been stolen from the accounts of the collapsed cryptocurrency exchange, diminishing the odds that its millions of investors will get their money back.
shiba inu coin.
California-based BitGo has a history of recovering and securing assets. The company was tasked with securing assets after the cryptocurrency exchange Mt. Gox failed in 2014. It is also the custodian for the assets held by the government of El Salvador as part of that country’s experiment in using bitcoin as legal tender.
FTX is paying Bitgo a $5 million retainer and $100,000 a month for its services.
It was announced on Nov. 16 that football quarterback Tom Brady and ex-wife Gisele Bundchen are among those celebrity endorsers being sued by investors in the bankrupt cryptocurrency company FTX claiming an alleged “Ponzi scheme”.
COURTYARD from page B-3
as Margarita once again.
“That was back before the play got a facelift and a rewrite by Stephen Savage in 2015 in an effort to reword some of the archaic language,” she said. “That was also the year they hired my husband, Steve Shockey, and his Civil War reenactment unit, the Washington Artillery, to bring their giant cannon as part of a brief war scene to kick off the show with a serious boom.”
Shockey said her favorite part of last year’s event, that she looks forward to being recreated this season, was when artistic director Dennis Anderson spoke of the magnificence of both Ramona,
the longest-running outdoor play in America, and the tradition of steadfast devotion to its preservation by generations of people.
“Then, as the giant Christmas tree in the center of the courtyard overlooking the spectacular view of the valley was lit, Madeline Marlene began to play her flute, filling the Bowl with a seemingly sacred song of the people represented in our timeless play,” she said. “It’s truly a magical moment.”
Tickets are $4 each or free with an unwrapped gift donation for My City Youth. Children 5 and younger are free. Parking is $5.
For more information, call 951-658-3111 or visit http://www. RamonaBowl.com.
When you become a subscriber, you support what matters. Your readership helps keep our staff reporting on the local and regional developments affecting you. Your readership encourages independent businesses to keep advertising and growing. Most importantly, your readership helps keep our community connected, informed and engaged in democracy.
is a fee associated with this or if the retailer offers free shipping on returns. Keep in mind that the return window may be extended through the season, too. Knowing these points prior to buying the item is important to help eliminate any potential headaches later on.
Beware of shipping deadlines
The closer we get to the holidays, the more expensive shipping rates may be. Retailers may offer both a free and paid shipping option, depending on when you need the item. And since USPS increased their rates for the season, waiting until the last-minute to shop online may cost you more when you need to pay for shipping. If you aren’t sure when the retailer’s shipping deadlines are, look to see if they have a “Shipping” or “Returns” section on their website to find out more information.
Compare prices and rates
The price on your item may be the same at different retailers, but you should also include shipping rates in your decision on where to complete your purchase. One retailer may offer free shipping while others may not. And of course, make sure you’re layering on the deals by stacking coupons and credit card rewards, as well as shopping through a cash back site, like TopCashback, which guarantees the highest percentage of your money back on qualifying purchases at over 7,000 retail ers, including Macy’s, QVC and Walmart, to increase your savings. Keep it digital
Gramuglia Special to Valley NewsWith the recent announcement of increased shipping rates for the holiday season, Americans may face higher than usual costs for their packages.
Luckily, as we head into peak holiday shopping season, there
are ways to save when shopping online that can make up for these pesky shipping prices. Here are four ways to find deals on your digital holiday finds.
Know the return policy
While some returns can be made at the physical store, sometimes a retailer may be too far away or only online. In that case, you’ll
Naiman Writer The Rancho California Water District selected Chi Construction Inc. to construct the Pepperleaf potable water pipeline replacement project in Murrieta.
A 7-0 RCWD board vote Thursday, Nov. 10, awarded Chi Construction, which is based in Anaheim, a $161,100 contract for the work. The pipeline to be replaced is along Pepperleaf Street east of Woodleaf Street in Murrieta.
A mainline leak which occurred in 2016 was along an existing eight-inch steel pipeline in a deep section of pipe which was originally constructed to avoid a major storm drain facility. The storm drain and the depth of the pipe made the leak inaccessible to RCWD construction crews at the time of repair. The line was temporarily terminated on both sides of the storm drain crossing, which promptly restored water service but created a dead-end condition. That single water source creates potential service reliability
issues for the customers served off that pipeline, and the presence of stagnant water creates potential water quality issues. The Pep perleaf Street pipeline project will reconstruct approximately 130 feet of eight-inch diameter pipe with new ductile iron piping and will cross over the existing storm drain to alleviate the current service issues and ensure that the pipeline is accessible for future repairs.
RCWD staff completed the plans and specifications, and a request for proposals was issued Sept. 8. Four bids were received by the Oct. 6 deadline. The Chi Construction bid of $161,100 was the lowest. Bunker Construction of La Quinta had the second-lowest bid at $183,981.
The work has a total cost es timate of $275,000 which also includes $25,000 for RCWD in ternal labor, $10,000 for construction support including surveying, $4,000 for materials testing and $21,400 for contingency.
Joe Naiman can be reached by email at jnaiman@reedermedia. com.
Pro tip: Mark your calendars for Wednesday, Dec. 14 aka Free Shipping Day. This will likely be the last time most retailers will offer free shipping with no minimum purchase and guaranteed delivery by Saturday, Dec. 24.
Rather than worrying about shipping and returns, opt to send your gift digitally. Consider shopping through TopCashback Gift Cards where you can score cash back on digital gift cards for over 300 retailers, including Sephora, Target and Best Buy.
Rebecca Gramuglia is a con sumer expert at TopCashback. Valley News does not endorse TopCashback.
so you are aware of anything that may adversely affect your ability to get a mortgage loan. A FICO credit score that’s too low may disqualify you from a mortgage. Each lender sets its own thresholds when they price and approve loans, but the higher your credit score, the better.
Improve credit standing. One way to improve your status in the eyes of lenders is to pay down credit card balances to reduce your credit utilization ratio. A high utili zation occurs when there is a high balance in relation to the credit limit, says Business Insider. Also, it may be wise to avoid any credit inquiries through new credit card applications for several months before applying for a loan, as these inquiries can affect your score.
Be realistic about what you can afford. Do your homework and determine your target interest rate and monthly payment as well as what down payment you can afford. It will help you research potential lenders and provide an idea of what may be offered to you.
Pay bills on time. Paying bills promptly not only helps you avoid late fees, but also positively affects your credit. The financial resource The Mortgage Reports urged diligence when paying rent, as late rent payments can bar you from getting a mortgage. Lenders look at rent history as the biggest indicator of whether you’ll make mortgage payments on time.
These are some of the ways to make a prospective home buyer look better in the eyes of mortgage lenders. Individuals can speak with financial professionals about what else they can do to improve the possibility of securing mortgages at the best rates possible.
ORANGE – Their third time wasn’t the charm, but their fourth time sure was. With a 42-15 victory over Orange High School, the San Jacinto Tigers won their program’s first-ever CIF Southern Section football title Friday, Nov. 25.
San Jacinto High School, which serves all of San Jacinto, was founded in 1910, making it one of the area’s oldest accredited public high schools. Prior to last Friday’s trip to the Division 6 championship game, the Tigers had suffered three losses in their previous title runs, the most recent coming in 2018 to Culver City. A 61-21 loss.
Heading into the halftime break of their matchup against Orange (11-3), things were looking grim for San Jacinto (12-2), who trailed 15-14. When the Tigers emerged from their visiting locker room for the third quarter, the energy was different. So different in fact, San Jacinto scored 28 unanswered points in the second half, led by senior QB Dereun Dortch, who had four touchdown passes in the game, and ran in two more on the ground.
The Panthers defense kept Dortch at bay for most of the first half, even keeping him from completing a single pass in the first quarter. It wouldn’t be until the first play of the second quarter that he would connect with junior wideout Dillon Gresham for a 38yard gain. The two then hooked up again on the next play, as Dortch hit Gresham in the corner of the end zone to give San Jacinto a 7-0 lead.
Despite a couple of miscues that led to the Panthers scoring, San Jacinto’s defense came up big when they needed to. Though they allowed more than 230 rushing yards in the game, three forced turnovers would cost Orange when they needed the ball the most.
Dortch finished the night going 13 for 18 with 291 passing yards, while gaining 70 more on the ground. Gresham finished up with nine receptions for 247 yards and 3 touchdown catches (26 on the season). Junior RB Malachi Brown had 59 yards rushing in the game, and senior WR Vincent Holmes contributed to the scoring efforts with 5 catches for 44 yards, and a TD.
The Tigers seem primed and ready for their next matchup, advancing to the Division 3AA CIF State Football Regionals Friday, Dec. 2. Game time will be at 7:30 p.m. at San Jacinto’s Tiger Stadium.
The newly crowned Division 6 champions will be facing University City (11-2), the No. 1 seed out of the San Diego Section.
The Centurions beat No. 2 seed Point Loma 33-28 last Friday for the Division 3 title. If the Tigers win this game, they most likely will travel North to face a team out of Northern California. The San Jacinto Education Foundation will be providing the pre-game meal for the team, having it catered by Emilio’s Restaurant. More information on the first-round game for San Jacinto can be found online at www.cifstate.org.
All stats, schedules, photos and scores, are supplied by local high school athletic directors, MaxPreps, CIF-SS offices, contributing writers/photographers and countless fans of the games via social media. To submit any additions or corrections to the schedule or stats, please email sports@reedermedia.com
JP Raineri can be reached by email at jp@reedermedia.com
JP Raineri Sports Editor
WALNUT – The CIF Southern Section cross country championships took place at Mt. San Antonio College Saturday, Nov. 19, and the local area was once again well represented. For those that follow projections, the Great Oak girls’ team was slated to come in around second place heading into the meet, which is actually where they found themselves at the 1-mile mark of the Division 1 race.
“My instructions were to just attack the course, and let everything fall into place,” Great Oak cross country coach Tammy Draughon said. “We knew they would need to get going early, stay together, and just execute our strategy in order to win.”
Great Oak did indeed stay grouped together in their “pack”
for most of the race, fighting for every spot as they crept past Santiago and pre-race favorite Rancho Cucamonga to win the championship. Senior Kelli Gaffney, who will be running for Cal Poly next season, led the way for the Wolfpack and took the individual title with a time of 17 minutes, 29.1 seconds. Gaffney joins past Great Oak greats Destiny Collins, Fatima Cortes and Tori Gaitan as runners who have won a Division 1 girls’ title.
“It’s sad because it’s my last time at this course, but it also means everything to win at Mt. SAC,” Gaffney said afterwards.
With eleven championships under their belt, the girls’ title was a first for coach Tammy Draughon, now in her third year leading the program. The previous
10 championships were won under coach Doug Soles, who resigned in 2020 and now coaches at Herriman High School in Utah. Gaffney was a freshman in 2019 when Great Oak won their last section championship.
This year, Great Oak’s girls team finished with a score of 76, just in front of Santiago (81) and Rancho Cucamonga (88). Also in Division 1, Vista Murrieta’s Erika Kirk qualified for the state meet with a ninth-place finish (18:12.4), and Linfield Christian finished seventh overall in the Division 5 girls’ race. Out of 198 runners, Caylyn Russell finished 61st, Maggie Smith came in 78th, and Ava Shaffer was 84th.
For the boys, Great Oak was the only local top team who brought home the runner-up plaque in Division 1, all the while having a few runners not racing at their peak due to illness or injury. The Wolfpack kept pace with first-place San Clemente, before ultimately finishing second. Gabriel Rodriguez led the way for the Wolfpack, finishing fifth in a time of 15:08.0.
“We could have a much different and stronger lineup at the CIF State meet, so I’m looking forward to seeing what the team can pull off at Woodward Park,” Draughon said.
The top seven teams in each division moved on to the state meet this past weekend, as did as many as five individuals not on qualifying teams. Details from that meet will be featured in our next story, which will be live online and in print in our next issue.
JP Raineri can be reached by email at sports@reedermedia. com
Local Supercross racers are getting ready to converge on Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego for the first time with a night of non-stop action Saturday, Jan. 21, 2023.
Feld Motor Sports, the worldwide leader in producing and presenting specialized arena and stadium-based motorsports entertainment, recently announced tickets are on sale for all 17 rounds of the 2023 Monster Energy AMA Supercross season. Excitement is mounting as the premier championship’s annual visit to “America’s Finest City” takes off for a first-ever race at the new Snapdragon Stadium. The San Diego stop will signify the third event of the 17-race schedule.
Monster Energy AMA Supercross is the most competitive and highest-profile off-road motorcycle racing championship on the planet. Founded in America and sanctioned by the American Motorcyclist Association since 1974. Over 17 weeks, Supercross attracts some of the largest and most impressive crowds inside the most recognizable and prestigious stadiums in North America to race in front of nearly one million live fans and broadcast to millions more worldwide.
Storylines abound for the 2023 Supercross season as the 450SX Class continues to feature some of the most talented athletes the sport has ever seen. Three Supercross champions will be competing for another title: two-time defending Supercross World Champion and ESPY-Award winning Eli Tomac, 2-time world champion Cooper
Webb and 2018 world champion Jason Anderson. A star-studded lineup of both domestic and international competitors will vie for their first title: France’s Marvin Musquin and Dylan Ferrandis (racing out Lake Elsinore), along with Americans Chase Sexton, Adam Cianciarulo, Malcolm Stewart, Justin Barcia, Aaron Plessinger and North County’s own Christian Craig, who also races out of Temecula.
Supercross FanFest, an event within itself, is also returning to San Diego with an expansive outside footprint that features unprecedented access to the sport’s biggest stars with an upclose and intimate view of their race bikes and team rigs. Also featured will be Monster Energy exhibitions, a Monster Energy Supercross - the Official Video Game 6 display where fans can play the game, an interactive FLY Racing bicycle pump track for the little ones, sponsor displays, photo opportunity set-ups, plus food and beverages. As the name implies, FanFest is a festival for the fans and has become a major part of the Supercross experience. With the new setting at Snapdragon Stadium, the tailgatestyle atmosphere will return, allowing fans to jump back and forth between the paddock and the stadium to also watch practice and qualifying. FanFest passes are priced at $15 each.
For local San Diego event info, please visit www.supercrosslive. com/tickets/san-diego/jan-212023 . Fans can also sign up for preferred access or make ticket purchases online at SupercrossLIVE.com
Raineri Sports Editor
The 7th annual Austin Gorrell Memorial Baseball Classic featured 42 local high school teams playing in games, honoring the former baseball player, who played in high school for JW North. Austin was not wearing his assigned defibrillator vest when he died from heart failure at the early age of 19, which was caught by the staff when he was a freshman playing baseball for the University of Nevada. The condition, called cardiomyopathy, was diagnosed during his preseason physical administered by the school’s athletic department in 2015, before he passed away in his dorm room bed months later.
Austin’s sudden death not only shocked his family, but it also shook the Inland baseball community. Immediately, the Austin Gorrell Memorial Baseball Classic was created and started with just nine teams. Austin’s family and friends wanted to not only help honor Austin, but to also help local players with scholarship opportunities for college. Kerry and Gina Gorrell, Austin’s parents, have made it their yearly mission, with the help of family and countless volunteers, to see this tournament through, except, of course, for the COVID-19 year in 2020.
The most recent Austin Gorrell Memorial Baseball Classic opened with the annual Home Run Derby Friday, Nov. 18, at Ryan Bonaminio Park in Riverside, which was followed by games taking place from Saturday, Nov. 19 through Tuesday, Nov. 22. After four days of winter baseball, the tournament wrapped up with a game between Norco and Aquinas. The two teams battled with no score through
the bottom of seventh, when the game had to be called due to time running out at 66ers Stadium in San Bernardino. The outcome was a first for the final two teams competing, as was the venue, but it was also a warm ending for such a great cause.
Area high school teams that competed this year included last year’s runners-up Great Oak, Chaparral, Temescal Canyon, Paloma Valley, Murrieta Mesa, Murrieta Valley and Vista Murrieta.
Great Oak and Paloma Valley made it the furthest in the Tournament’s Gold Bracket, advancing to the semifinals, while Vista Murrieta did the same in the Silver bracket, which was won by Eleanor Roosevelt High School.
The highlight of the night came for 10 recipients of the Austin Gorrell Scholarship Award, which took place prior to the game where $33,000 was given out to graduating seniors that are
moving on to college. The senior ball players were asked to write an essay detailing what the scholarship would mean to them, and those 10 winners included four local players from the Southwestern League.
2022 scholarship recipients are Jack O’Malley of Crean Lutheran ($7K), Mason Schumacher of Riverside Poly ($5K), Jacob Areano of JW North ($4K), Austin Castillo of ML King ($3K), Brendan Shanahan of Great Oak ($3K), Luca Noce of JW North ($2,500), Ryan Lee of Great Oak ($2,500), Masen Swan of ML King ($2,500), Willis Lacy of Vista Murrieta ($2K) and Noah Benavides of Murrieta Valley ($1,500)
As December arrives, preparations are already underway for next year’s tournament. To find out more information, visit www. austingorrellbaseballclassic.com.
JP Raineri can be reached by email at sports@reedermedia.
com
while Linfield Christian, Perris and Temecula Prep rounded out that side. In the Blue Bracket, Elsinore, Hemet, Murrieta Mesa and Temecula Valley made up the other side
Pool play took place Saturday, Nov. 19, and Monday and Tuesday, Nov. 21-22, with final games taking place Wednesday, Nov. 23. The final round saw Linfield Christian (5-0) take home the tournament title with a 65-46 win over Murrieta Mesa (4-1). Senior Mike McNair was the leading scorer for the Lions with 18 points. Xavier Cox scored 14, Julius Brower finished with 11 and Calem Costello scored 10 with a team high 7 rebounds.
Heading into that final tournament game Linfield Christian had outscored their opponents 233-69. The Rams outscored their opponents 203143. League play for both teams does not start until 2023 where Linfield Christian (Ambassador) will open up at home against Arrowhead Christian (Jan. 6), and the Rams will also be home for their Southwestern League opener against Vista Murrieta, Wednesday, Jan. 4.
JP Raineri can be reached by email at sports@reedermedia.
The Hemet/San Jacinto Student of the Month program held its most recent recognition breakfast at the newly refurbished Maze Stone at Soboba Springs Golf Course, Thursday, Nov. 17. Six 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 to overcome difficult life challenges. And they do this all in a setting that honors God, America, family, community and free enterprise. Students are nominated by teachers or other school personnel for making a difference in their homes, schools and communities.
Program founder and event facilitator Karena Zermeno also represents one of the sponsors, Altura Credit Union. Backpacks filled with gifts, a Student of the Month award, certificates of recognition and much more were donated by the program’s sponsors to the award recipients. Each student was invited to the podium to share their personal story, past challenges and future goals with a room full of supporters that included 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 schools are Brandon Evans, Sierra Evans Hamilton, Janis Ignacio, Enrique Martinez and Alexander Nahsohn. San Jacinto Unified School District’s honoree for November is Litzy Morales.
Hemet Unified School District Brandon Evans, who has been a Western Center Academy student since sixth grade, was described as insightful, thoughtful and driven. He completes at least three college courses each semester in addition to his high school work. He said he expects to be only one semester away from completing his associate degree in computer science when he graduates from high school. He offers tech support for others, which was especially needed and appreciated during the period of online learning. Evans did not always like mathematics and credits a tutor with helping him escape his prejudice against the subject.
“The most important life lesson I learned is that something you despise can one day be turned into something you love with the right approach,” he said.
Tahquitz High School’s Sierra Evans Hamilton was nominated
for being a great role model. She was introduced by Principal Kari McGowan who said she was reminded of a quote when she thought of the senior who is full of passion and compassion for others.
“In a world where you can be anything, be kind. That is Sierra,” McGowan said.
Sierra is a member of the Titans’ award-winning co-ed cheer squad, was homecoming princess and is her school’s NAMI Club president, taking the club to new heights.
Hamilton plans to pursue studies in psychology, criminal justice and paralegal while continuing cheerleading at the college level. Her dream job is to become a forensic psychologist.
“Growing up, things were not always perfect,” she said, adding that her grandparents were her constant rock. “My mom taught me to always take the upper road. In every moment in life, you can choose to run away or face it and become stronger. When things get difficult and you feel like giving up, always take the upper road.”
Janis Ignacio is West Valley High’s choice for November. One of her teachers said Ignacio is the best example of what teachers want students to understand and that is “no matter where you start, your continued effort and practice over time will produce academic success. Mastery does not come but through effort, practice or grit. Janis has these qualities in greater quantity than most students I’ve met.”
She excels at cross-country and academically while remaining very soft-spoken. She enjoys giving back to the community by volunteering at T.H.E. Center in Hemet. She said she hopes to complete her general education classes at Riverside Community College while working part time and then transfer to University of California Riverside to major in business marketing.
“An obstacle I learned to overcome was reading and writing comprehension,” Ignacio said. “I never asked for help from teachers for fear of being judged, which resulted in me not performing to my full potential. I finally found the courage to ask for help and learned an important lesson which is how to communicate with others.”
Hemet High School singled out Enrique Martinez for having many talents and rising above harsh circumstances. As a child he witnessed his father’s murder by cartel violence while living in Mexico. After this tragedy, the family migrated to the United States in search of a better life.
“As a kid, I had to navigate an impoverished, drug-ridden
environment all the while trying to learn English and put my best foot forward in school,” Martinez said. “Your experiences make you who you are and something that drives me everyday is my experience living in Mexico.”
He said that with the help of his mother and teachers, he has been able to overcome the disparities in his life. He said his childhood has made him grateful for everything he has and it taught him that life isn’t promised to anyone.
He plans to pursue his passion for computer science at California State Polytechnic University San Luis Obispo and secure a career at a top tech company.
Hamilton High’s Alexander Nahsohn is ranked No. 3 in his class with a 4.4. GPA and has the ability to persevere while constantly challenging himself and others. The student-athlete has been on the football team since his freshman year and is a National Honor Society member. His nominating teacher, Preston Brimhall, described Nahsohn as a “brilliant student and complex individual” and said he is constantly in awe of his mature insights in class.
“You would never know he suffers from crippling migraines and emotional struggles,” Brimhall said.
Nahsohn has been a member of the Boy Scouts of America for 10 years and said it has been the greatest contribution he has given to his community. He said he
learned life skills such as patience, persistence and confidence and has been able to teach those skills to younger Scouts.
“Nine years, five months and 13 days from today, my brother Zachary passed away, leaving a ripple effect throughout my family and those who were part of his life. His absence created a void that I felt necessary to fill so I took it upon myself to become a beacon of hope and happiness,” Nahsohn said. “Yet, despite my vows, I began to experience severe depression, anxiety and even blamed myself for his death.”
He plans to pursue a career in psychology or as a therapist to help others get past a traumatic experience.
He said his younger brother Jacob was born at 27 weeks gestation and was not expected to live for very long.
“But over 30 brain surgeries, two hip surgeries and dozens of other operations he is a living example to all of us,” Nahsohn said. “He continues to defy the odds day by day and reminds us that no matter the conditions, it is possible to push through and endure.”
San Jacinto Unified School District
Litzy Morales was chosen to be the senior honored from San Jacinto High School this month.
New principal Kristi Coulter was introduced by outgoing principal Courtney Hall, who was happy to attend the inspiring breakfast
community and school district dignitaries.
November’s students of the month are the California Military Institute’s Kayla Ramos-Bonilla, Heritage High School’s Alice Pitts, Paloma Valley High School’s Cooper Owen and Perris High School’s Galilea Ugalde.
Kayla Ramos-Bonilla was commended for her work at the California Military Institute where Assistant Principal Capt. Miles Henderson said she encompasses all aspects of the school’s core values of service, integrity and respect.
Kayla, who is a cancer survivor, plans to attend UCLA or Columbia University to major in biology or biochemistry on her way to becoming a pediatric oncologist at Loma Linda. One of her nominating teachers said Kayla is ambitious and a wonderful representative for CMI.
leadership in everything she does on campus.” Two of her nominating teachers commended her for her integrity and for her ability to take chances and bring something new and exciting to every project. She is on her school’s tennis team and boasts a 4.4 GPA.
“The life lesson that I want to take with me to college is that even if you have a great support system around you like I have, the greatest thing you can have is the support and confidence you have for yourself because it’s just you at the end of the day,” Alice said. She hopes to attend San Diego State to major in accounting and business.
once again.
Nominating teacher Matthew Corun said Morales is a studentathlete who excels in the classroom and on the volleyball court. He described her as a fighter who plows through obstacles all the time, adding that she is very insightful and a deep thinker.
“Life was never perfect for me growing up,” she said.
Recently, her twin sister was diagnosed with cancer again, and Morales found it difficult to continue juggling work, school and sports but she is doing her best. She plans to enroll at California State University San Bernardino to major in criminal justice to become a lawyer or social worker.
Her friend Kyra said Morales is a hard worker who always strives for greatness.
“She’s a rock star who exceeds everybody’s expectations no matter the assignment,” she said. “She has changed my life for the better and she has inspired me to live my life to the fullest and keep a smile on my face.”
Hemet Education Foundation Co-President Sue Breyer, said, “Our minds are boggled by some of the stories these students shared but the consistent theme is that they had a strong support system, a network of people much like a safety net, to help them overcome challenges.”
For more information, visit http://www.studentofthemonth. net.
I’m feeling standing up here right now; Only if you have been in the deepest valley can you ever know how magnificent it is to be on the highest mountain.”
He said that he has enjoyed being in theater all four years of high school. “I just love that something I have such a deep passion for and brings me such joy can bring the same amount of joy to hundreds of other people as well.”
Cooper looks forward to attending UC, Berkeley to major in economics and then attend law school on the path to becoming an attorney.
A. Rhodes Special to Valley NewsThe Menifee Valley and Perris Valley Chambers of Commerce Student of the Month program, honoring local high school seniors, held its most recent recognition breakfast on Nov. 9 at the Perris Sizzler, 91 W. Nuevo Road.
Perris Union High School District Superintendent Grant Bennett served as emcee, filling in for Sally Myers, founder of the nonprofit program.
He welcomed everyone to the community-supported celebration which honors high school seniors for their character, their love of learning and how they juggle numerous activities such as campus
events, athletics and/or community service. It also commends them on how they have persevered through difficult life circumstances, all in a setting that honors God, their country, community, family and free enterprise.
“This is a great program to highlight kids in schools throughout our district,” Bennett said.
Gift bags filled with certificates of recognition, gift cards to local merchants and much more were donated by the program’s sponsors to the award recipients. Each student was invited to the podium to share their personal story, past challenges and future goals with a room full of supporters that included principals, teachers, peers and family members, as well as
Being at a small school has been welcomed by Kayla who said that she has been able to form a close bond with everyone at the school, which is like its own community.
“The life lesson I have learned is to always be myself and to be honest with those around you,” Kayla said.
Alice Pitts was Heritage High School’s choice and Principal Lindsay Chavez said every month at Student of the Month time she gets a list of nominees from her staff, and it is always difficult to decide who should be honored.
“It is easier when a student is nominated by multiple staff members, as was the case with Alice,” Chavez said. “She shows
Cooper Owen was singled out at Paloma Valley High School. Principal Jennifer Thomasian shared that he is outstanding in all the things that he does and is “insanely intelligent, kind and caring and has excellent comedic timing in our theater productions. To have that ability to hold an audience in your hand and make people laugh is important.”
His nominating teacher said he is an excellent physics student, an outstanding writer with some wonderful creative ideas and a bold performer. “But what sets Cooper apart to me isn’t all of those wonderful things, it’s that he is continually so kind and compassionate and a deep listener. That’s what makes him an excellent friend.”
When he took to the podium, Cooper thanked his family, teachers, staff, community and supporters and said, “I have a quote here that I think perfectly sums up the experience of what
Galilea Ugalde was introduced by Perris High School Principal Juan Santos who said he was impressed with her leadership abilities. She has already been accepted at Cal State University, Chico, one of her top two college picks. She wants to study kinesiology with the goal of becoming an athletic trainer. Her nominating teacher said Galilea’s work ethic, positive attitude and service to others are beyond belief.
Galilea said she feels her biggest contribution to her school comes from her participation in ASB where she gets to help create events that allow her peers to de-stress and also to give them an outlet away from classwork.
“These moments give students a different view of school and something they can look forward to,” she said. “I want to help make school fun and memorable to everybody.”
For more information on the program, please contact Sarah Rico at 951-943-6369, ext. 80103 or sarah.rico@puhsd.org
When Nancy Aragon was nominated for ImageFIRST’s second annual HeroesFIRST award, she said she was surprised. When she was named a finalist in October, she said she was excited, and after receiving the most votes to be chosen as the West’s regional winner, she said she was humbled.
Aragon became a full-time registered nurse at Murrieta Valley Surgery Center in Wildomar in 2018 and its director of nursing in April.
“I love it there so much and am so excited to continue providing the best healthcare in the inland valley,” she said.
ImageFIRST, founded in 1967, is the largest and fastest-growing national linen rental and laundry service specializing in the health care market. It serves medical facilities nationwide providing linen, patient gowns, safety and hygiene programs and more. It launched its nationwide HeroesFIRST contest to recognize exceptional Healthcare Heroes who, even in the face of adversity, go above and beyond to enhance the patient experience.
After receiving more than 450 nominations, 10 regional finalists were chosen. Aragon was selected to represent the West and votes were cast by the public on the contest’s website for the regional Healthcare Hero who inspired them the most.
Following the nationwide vote, the hero in each of the five regions that received the most votes was awarded a $1,500 grand prize. The other nominee in each region was awarded $500.
“Our customer advocate, Frank Quijano, completely blindsided me by even writing about me,” Aragon said. “His words were so caring and thoughtful that I was so honored by it. I have never been recognized in such a way that made me realize the impact that I have on my patients and staff.”
According to part of Aragon’s nomination submission, “She positively impacts not only patients, but also the employees and visitors. Nancy makes it a priority to remember everyone’s names, especially the patients, which is a very special touch. Everything Nancy does, she does it with an energetic spirit, which makes Nancy a Healthcare Hero.”
Aragon said when the contest launched and voting began, she was shocked at all the support she
received from her surgeons, staff, family and friends.
“I say this with such sincerity, that just being nominated by an individual who hears me with patients, family members and staff was more than enough,” Aragon said.
As an industry leader with a commitment to enhancing the patient’s experience, the ImageFIRST contest honored those in the health care field who positively impact the lives of their patients.
“The health care professionals our associates connect with each day are a constant source of inspiration for us. Our Service Vision is to create a positive moment with every interaction,” Jim Cashman, president and CEO of ImageFIRST, said. “The HeroesFIRST contest has been a great way to live out that vision, brightening their day with a nomination as we recognize our customers for the positive impact they have on their patients’ experiences. We are honored to recognize these heroes.”
Originally from the Santa Clarita Valley, Aragon became a registered nurse in 2014 with her associate degree in nursing and received her bachelor’s degree in nursing in 2015 from Mount Saint Mary’s University in Los Angeles. She enlisted in the U.S. Army at 17, while still in high school, with the support of her parents.
“My journey through the Army led me to a wonderful job as an operating room technician, and I served for six years active-duty, traveling to Germany and West Point, N.Y. as support staff,” Aragon said. “After I was honorably discharged in 2009, I went to college to pursue my nursing career. At the time I was a full-time student and single mother of two beautiful children. Once I obtained my RN license, I worked for a few plastic surgeons in Beverly Hills. I then remarried in 2016 and had two more beautiful girls.”
The family moved to Murrieta in 2017 where they could get more help with the children “from my amazing in-laws,” Aragon said.
She began working at Loma Linda University Medical Center Murrieta in the operating room as a circulating RN and per diem jobs throughout the valley. That is how and where she met the surgery administrator who offered her a fulltime job at Murrieta Valley Surgery Center.
The ambulatory surgery center specializes in vascular, bariatrics and general surgery. It serves 15 surgeons with offices throughout southwest Riverside County, including Corona.
“The great part about being taken care of at an ambulatory surgery center is that you can go home the same day,” Aragon said. “Our team is extremely efficient at what we do and the care we provide to all of our patients and family members. Their health and well-being is in our hands and we truly understand how terrifying it may be to have surgery and that’s why we do our best to
comfort them. We take pride in making sure we educate our patients and family members before and after surgery. No patient should ever be left in the dark about their health. This is apparently how I was even nominated for such a prestigious award through ImageFIRST.”
Aragon works hard to balance her demanding health care job with an active home life that includes four children, ranging in age from 22 months to 15 years and said that is why this award meant so much to her.
“It was a proud moment for all of my family and everyone at the
RIVERSIDE COUNTY – An eastern Riverside County child under the age of 4 has died after contracting a respiratory illness that is possibly linked to respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, health officials said Monday, Nov. 21.
“The loss of a child is devastating and all of Public Health sends its heartfelt condolences to the family, loved ones and anyone impacted by this tragic event,” Dr. Geoffrey Leung, public health officer for Riverside County, said.
The name of the child and city of residence are not being released.
The child died at a local hospital after a short illness.
Leung urged parents to take the necessary precautions to protect their children as officials see an increase in influenza and RSV in young children. He said the following recommendations will help prevent the spread of RSV and other diseases: wash hands frequently; cover coughs and sneezes; keep children home when sick; consider indoor masking and disinfect frequently used surfaces.
Medicine can help protect some babies at high risk for severe RSV
disease. Health care providers give the medicine, called palivizumab, to premature infants and young children with certain heart and lung conditions as a series of monthly shots during RSV season. If you are concerned about your child’s risk for severe RSV infection, talk to your child’s health care provider.
RSV typically causes mild, cold-like symptoms, but it can be particularly serious for infants and older adults each winter. The RSV season typically lasts from November to March, but this year began early and seems to
tuna, sardines, trout, and anchovies are rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
• Nuts and seeds: The minerals selenium, copper, magnesium, manganese, and zinc have all been linked to mental health, and nuts are rich in each of those minerals. Hackensack Meridian Health notes that almonds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, walnuts, and peanuts are particularly good sources of the immune system-boosting minerals zinc and magnesium.
be affecting more children than previous seasons. It is the most common cause of bronchiolitis, which is inflammation of the small airways in the lung, and pneumonia, which is an infection of the lungs, in children younger than 1 year old in the United States.
Symptoms can include shallow or difficulty breathing, cough, poor appetite, listlessness or irritability, and it can cause bronchiolitis and pneumonia.
The RSV-associated pediatric death is the first reported in Riverside County and underscores
center as well,” she said. “Trying to balance life and work takes an entire village and I’d like to thank everyone who voted for me from the bottom of my heart. I would also like to thank all of the staff at MVSC for their amazing work. It is such a privilege to be a part of an amazing group of individuals. I proudly walk by the lobby every morning and see ‘hero’ next to my name on a gorgeous glass plaque. What a surreal moment for me.”
For more information, visit http:// www.imagefirst.com
the early onset of what is expected to be an active winter season countywide for influenza, COVID and other respiratory illnesses.
Residents are advised to call their health care provider and seek immediate medical attention if a child or anyone is having difficulty breathing.
To learn more, visit Riverside University Health System Public Health’s Disease Control branch at https://www.ruhealth.org/publichealth/disease-control or call 951358-5107.
Submitted by Riverside County.
the Journal of Proteome Research found that dark chocolate helped to reduce levels of the hormone cortisol, which has been linked to stress. Hackensack Meridian Health notes that, when consumed in moderation, dark chocolate
made of at least 70 percent cocoa can help people relax.
Various foods can have a beneficial effect on mood, potentially helping people to stay positive when doing so proves challenging.
Certain foods have been found to positively affect mood, so incorporating them into your diet may help you stay positive even on those days when you get up on the wrong side of the bed.
No one is immune to the occasional bad mood. Whether it’s the weather, waking up on the wrong side of the bed or another variable, various factors can have an adverse affect on a person’s mood.
Food is one factor that can have a positive effect on mood. Certain foods have been found to positively affect mood, so incorporating them into your diet may help you stay positive even
on those days when you get up on the wrong side of the bed.
• Fatty fish: A study from British researchers published in the Archives of General Psychiatry found that a daily dose of an omega-3 fatty acid called eicosapentaenoic acid, or EPA, helped patients with depression significantly reduce their feelings of sadness and pessimism. Hackensack Meridian Health notes that salmon, albacore
• Dark, leafy greens: Dark, leafy greens like kale, spinach and collards are rich in iron and magnesium, both of which can increase serotonin levels and help reduce feelings of anxiety. Dark, leafy greens also help the body fight inflammation, which can have a positive effect on mood. A 2015 study published in the journal JAMA Psychiatry found that brain inflammation contributed to certain behaviors, including low mood, that appear during major depressive episodes.
• Dark chocolate: Chocolate lovers may be happy to learn that dark chocolate can improve mood. A 2009 study published in
if safe to do so or slow down to safely pass highway workers.
Caltrans’ new campaign will
SACRAMENTO – The young faces of the families of highway workers are reminding drivers to move over a lane or slow down for their loved ones who help keep the roads safe. The “Kids of Caltrans” provide the personal, impactful messages behind the new public awareness campaign from the California Department of Transportation, in partnership with the California Office of Traffic Safety and the California Highway Patrol, that kicked off today at Sacramento’s Golden 1 Center.
“Making a traffic or emergency stop on the side of the road is one of the most dangerous duties law enforcement officers and other first responders perform,” CHP Commissioner Amanda
family members of Caltrans workers.
News/Courtesy photoRay said. “Tragically, too many first responders and highway workers have been killed on the shoulder or median, and dozens more have been seriously injured. Please, move over or slow down when you see our officers and others working on the side of the freeway; not only is it the law, their lives depend on it.”
Some of the children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews of Caltrans workers featured in the “Move Over” campaign were on hand for the kickoff event, which comes on the heels of last week’s National Crash Responder Safety Week. In video messages that will air throughout the state through January 2023, they ask drivers to be alert and move over a lane
Moving over and slowing down when passing a vehicle stopped on the roadway with flashing lights in California isn’t a matter of following the law – it is also about saving lives. The “Move Over” law exists to provide a safer environment for maintenance and emergency vehicles stopped along roadsides close to fast-moving traffic.
“Not a single person should die on our roadways – let alone in our work zones – so I urge you to do your part, pay attention, move over and save lives,” Caltrans Director Tony Tavares said. “Don’t let that split second of inattention destroy the lives of so many people ... including your own.”
Highway workers, law enforcement officers, emergency personnel and tow truck drivers are killed or injured along California’s roadways every year.
“Caltrans workers are mothers, fathers, grandparents, aunts and uncles who have loved ones who need them to come home,” OTS Director Barbara Rooney said. “For your safety, and the
safety of all roadside workers and emergency responders, please be alert and slow down.”
California’s “Move Over” law requires all drivers to move over a lane if safe to do so, and if unable to do so safely, to slow down when they see amber flashing lights on Caltrans vehicles, law enforcement and other emergency vehicles and tow trucks.
“Towing professionals are the ones we rely on when the unexpected happens. We all depend on these Heroes of the Highway to clear our roadways and get traffic safely flowing after a crash has occurred,” Sam Johnson, president of the California Tow Truck Association and the Emergency Road Service Coalition of America, said. “As a motorist, you can help protect these heroes by paying attention, slowing down, and moving over when you see the flashing lights of a tow truck assisting a stranded vehicle. The California Tow Truck Association along with the Emergency Road Service Coalition of America would like to thank the motoring public for their help with our mission to get each and every one of these
Heroes of the Highway safely home to their families at the end of the day.”
In 2020, nearly 7,000 workzone crashes occurred on California roadways, resulting in more than 3,000 injuries and nearly 100 fatalities. Nationally, drivers and passengers account for 85% of those killed in work zones.
Although all 50 states have enacted “Move Over” laws, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that 71% of Americans are not aware of them. In California, failure to obey the “Move Over” law can result in drivers receiving fines up to $1,000, plus points on their driving record.
Since 1921, 191 Caltrans employees have been killed on the job, and one of the biggest hazards to them and anyone working on the roads is from motorists who do not exercise caution. Those 191 employees represent scores of families torn apart by preventable work zone collisions.
To see campaign videos from the children and grandchildren of Caltrans, visit http:// BeWorkZoneAlert.com.
Submitted by Caltrans.
SAN DIEGO — U.S. Customs and Border Protection is encouraging travelers to apply for a paperless I-94 tourist permit through the CBP OneTM mobile application this holiday season to help streamline their travel into the United States.
“The holidays are some of the busiest times of the year and good preparation is key to a successful travel plan,” Jennifer De La O, CBP director of field operations for the San Diego Field Office, said. “Applying for the paperless I-94 tourist permit online using the CBP One mobile app benefits the traveler, simplifying the process and making the most out of their holiday experience.”
CBP officials encouraged nonimmigrant visa passport holders seeking to travel to the U.S. interior during the holidays to apply and pay for an electronic I-94 online through the CBP OneTM mobile application to better facilitate international travel into the United States.
CBP One is a mobile application that provides a more convenient way for travelers to apply for an I-94 up to seven days before arrival, review their past travel history, check their I-94 expiration date and obtain proof of their electronic I-94 from their mobile device. Travelers will receive a provisional I-94 after
submitting their application and payment online.
All traveling family members need to be present during the I-94 application process. Those requesting permits must be able to establish financial solvency and proof of residency outside the U.S. and must demonstrate that they have sufficiently strong ties to their country of origin including a home abroad they do not intend to abandon. Applicants who present a border crossing card are not eligible to work in the United States.
Reduce wait times right at your fingertips this Holiday season by downloading the CBP OneTM mobile App.
Members of the traveling public can monitor border wait times via https://bwt.cbp.gov/ or obtain the BWT app on their smartphone via Apple App Store and Google Play so that they can make an informed decision of their travels. Wait times are updated on an hourly basis.
For a more seamless admission process, travelers are strongly encouraged to follow the tips listed. CBP recommended that those who can decide when to cross choose off-peak hours for their travel times: Monday through Friday from 4 a.m. to 9 a.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. to midnight.
Line up in the proper lanes:
SENTRI, Ready Lane and All Traffic. Traffic at the local ports of entry is segmented into three different lanes, and travelers should be prepared to have the correct documentation for the corresponding lane.
All non-citizens who are not U.S. nationals or lawful permanent residents should be prepared to verbally attest to their vaccination status upon entry.
Have all the required travel documents for the country you are visiting, as well as identification for re-entry into the United States. Passports are required for air travel. Visit http://www.travel.state.gov for country-specific information. Declare everything you bring from abroad, even if you bought it in a duty-free shop.
Be cautious when buying something from street vendors. The merchandise may be counterfeit and/or unsafe, and you may have to surrender it upon inspection at the Port of Entry.
Items bought abroad for personal use or as gifts are eligible for duty exemptions. If you bring them back for resale, they are not eligible for duty exemption.
Be aware of U.S. prohibited merchandise, such as ivory, tortoiseshell products and counterfeit items. Bringing prohibited merchandise is against
The Eastern Municipal Water District board meeting, Sept. 8, included an action item to authorize EMWD general manager Joe Mouawad to negotiate a letter of interest for Eastern to participate in the Doheny Ocean Desalination Project. The EMWD board meeting Wednesday, Nov. 16, included a vote to approve the letter of interest.
The board voted 4-0, with Randy Record absent, to authorize the letter of interest with the South Coast Water District and the Municipal Water District of Orange County to evaluate EMWD’s potential participation in the Doheny Ocean Desalination Project. The action also created an ad hoc committee to oversee the effort.
The South Coast Water District provides water to Dana Point, Laguna Beach and parts of San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano. That district is contemplating a seawater desalination plant which would be located in Dana Point. The proposed facility would be built in phases and have an ultimate production capacity of 15 million gallons per day.
The first phase would build capacity for 5 million gallons per day. Part of the reason for building the desalination plant is to have
an emergency water supply for southern Orange County in the event imported water delivery from the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California is interrupted, and the South Coast Water District would likely only need 2 million gallons per day of the initial capacity. The other 3 million gallons per day would be available for potential partners, so SCWD staff and board members are open to opportunities for local and regional partnerships.
Procurement documents for the competitive selection of a team to design, build, operate, and maintain the desalination plant are being prepared. That team will be selected after all permits are secured. The California Coastal Commission approved the proposed desalination plant Oct. 13.
The Sept. 8 action directed Mouawad to work with SCWD staff members, the Municipal Water District of Orange County, which provides retail service to Anaheim, Fullerton and Santa Ana and wholesale service to 27 retail water agencies, and other stakeholders. Eastern will not have direct access to the water produced by the desalination project, so the EMWD interest would be a water exchange agreement in which EMWD would purchase an established amount of water produced by the Doheny Ocean
Desalination Project in exchange for an equivalent amount of water provided by MWD through the Municipal Water District of Orange County. Eastern and MWDOC are both MWD member agencies.
The letter of interest is a formal commitment for EMWD staff to agree to the continuation of discussions and to outline the next step for potential EMWD participation. Actual EMWD participation will be contingent upon understanding of the structure of Eastern’s participation, the EMWD cost to participate, the amount of water available for exchange, the ability of MWD and MWDOC to provide water supply reliability benefits to Eastern, the potential for MWD participation and purchase as MWD supply and consideration of Eastern’s up-front financial commitment and the value to EMWD.
Eastern and the South Coast Water District will review the specific legal structure under which desalinated ocean water will be supplied to Eastern, including a water supply and purchase contract or a joint powers agreement. The desalination plant is expected to be under SCWD ownership, and that district would also manage the procurement and contracting process for the benefit of project
see EMWD, page C-7
the law and can result in penalties up to $10,000. For more information on prohibited and restricted items, visit https://www.cbp.gov/travel/ us-citizens/know-before-you-go/ prohibited-and-restricted-items.
Many foreign-made medications are not approved for United States use and are not permitted in the country. When traveling, bring only medication you will need. Make sure the medication is in the original container.
Before bringing food to the United States, check the list of prohibited items. All live animals, birds and bird products may be restricted, quarantined or require certification.
CBP encourages travelers to declare all agricultural items to a CBP officer upon arrival. Do not attempt to bring fruits, meats, dairy/poultry and/or firewood into the United States without first checking they are permitted. For more information, visit https:// www.cbp.gov/travel/clearing-cbp/ bringing-agricultural-productsunited-states.
CBP is reminding travelers that, although medical marijuana is legal in many U.S. States, the sale, possession, production and distribution of marijuana all remain illegal under U.S. federal law. Consequently, crossing with a valid medical marijuana prescription is
prohibited and could potentially result in fines, apprehension or both.
Travelers should familiarize themselves with the “Know Before You Go” section of the CBP website at https://www.cbp.gov/travel/uscitizens/know-before-you-go to avoid fines and penalties associated with the importation of prohibited items. “Know Before You Go” brochures are also available at border ports.
Understand that everyone who applies for entry into the U.S. is subject to inspection. CBP officers may conduct a search of their person, their luggage and vehicle to enforce U.S. laws as well as protect other travelers.
If you are a frequent international traveler and have not already become a member of a trusted traveler program, sign up now. For more information, visit https://ttp. dhs.gov/.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the comprehensive management, control and protection of our nation’s borders, combining customs, immigration, border security and agricultural protection at and between official ports of entry.
The famed “Festival of Lights” returned to Riverside for the Christmas season for the first time since 2019.
“The Festival of Lights has been a joyous occasion for Riverside families for three decades,” Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson said. “It is gratifying to see that Riversiders will once again be able to gather together for the switch-on ceremony,” which was held Friday, Nov. 25.
Switch-on events were rescinded in November 2020 and November 2021. The 2020 event was prohibited by state regulations on public gatherings because of COVID, and the Riverside City Council decided to forgo the 2021 switch-on as a precautionary measure.
The ceremonies often draw up to 75,000 people outside the Mission Inn, where streets are closed and a fireworks extravaganza takes place.
“Riverside families have looked forward to the return of the switch-on ceremony throughout the pandemic, so it is rewarding to see that patience rewarded,” Councilmember Ronaldo Fierro said. “Our city is looking forward
to another exciting event.”
It will be the festival’s 30th anniversary. Mission Inn Hotel & Spa owner Duane Roberts began the Festival of Lights in 1992. The nightly event features the centuryold inn bathed in multi-colored hues, with hundreds of animated characters, including elves, toy soldiers, nutcrackers and angels, visible on banisters, balconies and ledges.
Towering Christmas trees traditionally line the way outside and into the hotel, where visitors also encounter a mistletoe measuring 12 feet by 8 feet.
There will be live musical entertainment, photos with Santa Claus, as well as artisan booths and food vendors up and down the Main Street pedestrian mall.
This year’s activities will run nightly through Dec. 31, though the lights will continue to shine until Jan. 6.
Last year, the council allocated $100,000 for the six-week event. This year, $650,000 has been appropriated, according to city representative Phil Pitchford. Prior to 2020, anywhere from $350,000 to $825,000 was earmarked for festival activities, which netted sizable revenue to the city and vendors.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) on Friday announced a ban on new imports of Chinese-owned telecommunications equipment, including the equipment suspected of surveilling sensitive U.S. military sites.
The new rules, prohibiting U.S. sales and imports of equipment from companies including Huawei and ZTE, are the first to be implemented on the grounds they pose “unacceptable risk to national security,” FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr said Friday. U.S. authorities have expressed concerns that Beijing could exploit the companies’ telecommunications installations
across the country to collect data from U.S. sites, including nuclear and military sites in the U.S.
“While we’ve flagged equipment as posing a national security risk, prohibited companies from using federal funds to purchase them, and even stood up programs to replace them, for the last several years the FCC has continued to put its stamp of approval on this equipment through its equipment authorization process,” FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel said in a statement.
“But that does not make any sense,” she added.
The FCC’s new regulations prohibit authorization of any new equipment from companies already listed on an existing log of communications and services that the FCC determines pose an
“unacceptable” national security threat, and includes Huawei, ZTE, Hytera, Hikvision and Dahua.
The decision “sounds the death knell for all five companies and their operations in the United States,” Conor Healy, director of government research at surveillance research firm IPVM, told the Daily Caller News Foundation.
“This decision was not taken lightly,” Healy added. “This is one of the few issues in the last couple of years that Republicans and Democrats completely agree on, and the reason for that is that the security threats are real.”
An FBI investigation in July found that Huawei equipment on cell towers could potentially capture Department of Defense communications, including those
related to nuclear launch sites, CNN reported.
However, the investigation preceded CNN’s reporting in July; concerns over Beijing co-opting Chinese-made communications technology, and the resulting federal probes, extend to at least the Obama administration, according to CNN, and intensified under the Trump administration.
The investigation may not have definitively proven that Huawei equipment actually intercepted classified communications and relayed them back to China, a relatively difficult task, sources familiar told CNN.
However, Carr, the senior Republican on the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), told Reuters in July that Huawei equipment near military
bases, including Malmstrom Air Force Base in Montana, could allow the Chinese government to surveil troop movements and other electronic activities. This could give away preparations for any future missile strike on China, he added.
The Commerce Department subpoenaed Huawei in April 2021 for disclosures on the technology giant’s data collection and sharing policies, according to a 10-page document seen by Reuters. Huawei could access information related to cell phone usage, including message contents and geolocation data.
Huawei and the Chinese Embassy in the U.S. did not immediately respond to the DCNF’s request for comment.
Elon Musk revealed late Wednesday, Nov. 24, that it is “necessary” to release internal discussions about the censorship of the New York Post’s Hunter Biden laptop story prior to the 2020 election.
Twitter locked The New York Post’s account in October 2020 for posting a now-confirmed report of emails contained on Biden’s laptop that detail a meeting between him and his father, President Joe Biden, with an executive of Ukrainian gas company Burisma in 2015. The laptop contained caches of emails detailing business dealings with Burisma and state-owned CEFC
China Energy Co, from which his firms received $4.8 million in wire transfer payments from its founder, Ye Jianming, according to a Senate report.
A Twitter user called on Musk to release these discussions “in the interest of transparency” in a Wednesday tweet, to which the new Twitter CEO nodded in agreement.
“Raise your hand if you think @ElonMusk should make public all internal discussions about the decision to censor the @NYPost’s story on Hunter Biden’s laptop before the 2020 Election in the interest of Transparency,” Twitter user ALX tweeted.
“This is necessary to restore public trust,” Musk replied.
The platform restricted any Twitter user from sharing links of the Post’s article either publicly or through direct message. The social media site further locked former White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany’s personal account and the official account for former President Donald Trump’s campaign for sharing the link.
The New York Times and Washington Post both confirmed the authenticity of the laptop story earlier this year after the corporate media consistently denied the reports. CBS News verified the authenticity of the laptop Monday, nearly two years after the Daily Caller News Foundation’s forensic analysis of the computer’s hard drive.
Musk, who took over Twitter on Oct. 27, previously called Twitter’s censorship of the New York Post’s accurate reporting “incredibly inappropriate.”
Former Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey later issued an apology for censoring the accounts, providing the explanation that the company’s “communication” surrounding the article was insufficient.
“Our communication around our actions on the @nypost article was not great,” Dorsey said. “And blocking URL sharing via tweet or DM with zero context as to why we’re blocking: unacceptable.”
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The number of young people identifying as transgender has soared in recent years, and females have come to make up the vast majority of patients seeking gender transitions, reversing a longstanding trend.
Some view this rapid demographic shift as evidence that peer influence is driving young people, females in particular, to transition.
“Adolescents are very susceptible to peer influence, so to suggest there can be no influence on young people is preposterous and flies in the face of everything we know about teenagers,” Dr. Erica Anderson, a psychologist who works with transgender children, told the Daily Caller News Foundation.
The recent surge in transgender identification is caused in part by peer influence, a growing body of evidence suggests, and some transgender advocates are acknowledging this issue.
Many activists argue that transgenderism has become more prevalent because growing social acceptance allows more transgender people, who would otherwise keep their gender identity a secret, to live openly.
Critics of youth gender transitions,
however, argue that the growing rate of transgender identification in adolescents, along with rapidly changing demographics of transgender people, are evidence that peer influence is driving young people to identify as transgender who otherwise wouldn’t.
Gender dysphoria, a deep sense of discomfort with one’s biological sex which may drive a person to become transgender, used to be observed primarily in males, according to Reuters. That trend has been fully reversed over the past 15 years; among adolescents seeking transgender medical interventions, biological females outnumber biological males by a factor of 2.5 to 7.1.
This drastic change in the transgender population was driven by peer influence, some medical professionals argue. Dr. Erica Anderson, a psychologist who works with transgender children, told the Daily Caller News Foundation that peer influence, particularly through social media as a result of teens’ social isolation, is at least partially to blame for soaring rates of gender identity issues among adolescent girls.
“I think the people who are on the far right who say it’s all social influence are wrong. But people on the far left who say there can be no social influence are also wrong,” Anderson, a psychologist who works with
transgender children, told the Daily Caller News Foundation. “Adolescents are very susceptible to peer influence, so to suggest there can be no influence on young people is preposterous and flies in the face of everything we know about teenagers.”
A study published in the scientific journal Plos One surveyed 256 parents whose children experienced rapid onset of gender dysphoria. The vast majority (86.7%) of adolescents either started spending more time online or were in a friend group with at least one other transgender person prior to identifying as transgender, according to the study.
The study was meant to explore growing reports from parents of their children suddenly adopting transgender identities after puberty after apparent peer influence. In 36.8% of the friendship groups reported in the study, parent participants said the majority of its members identified as transgender. Parents also reported a decline in their children’s mental health and in parent-child relationships following adoption of transgender identities.
Childhood gender dysphoria diagnoses rose 70% from 2020 to 2021, according to medical records of 330 million Americans analyzed by Komodo Health Inc. From 2017 – 2021, childhood diagnoses more than doubled, according to the same data set.
as a growing number of patients who didn’t experience gender dysphoria in childhood, both signs of possible peer influence.
“For a select subgroup of young people, susceptibility to social influence impacting gender may be an important differential to consider,” the standards of care read. “However, caution must be taken to avoid assuming these phenomena occur prematurely in an individual adolescent.”
onlinecommunities.
“I would definitely say social media played a role in keeping the process of everything going, as well as some issues with being groomed and preyed upon by people online,” Luka, a 20-yearold detransitioner, recently told the Daily Caller News Foundation.
participants.
Eastern will work collaboratively with SCWD and MWDOC staff to determine the cost for EMWD to purchase Doheny Ocean Desalination Project water and the amount of water available for purchase. It will also include expectations for minimum water purchases and an understanding of future cost obligations and impacts. EMWD staff will also work collaboratively with SCWD, MWDOC, and MWD staff to develop a framework for the water exchange and water supply benefits to Eastern. Any up-front funding would have the purpose of offsetting future EMWD obligations for water supply and considerations of opportunities for first right of refusal for supply from future phases.
All agencies involved will share the necessary data, prior studies, and other relevant information to support the analysis. The ad hoc committee will consist of representatives from each agency and will review staff recommendations and provide feedback as the terms for potential participation are considered. The parties may advance to a memorandum of understanding or other form of commitment for EMWD participation, but the letter of interest itself does not obligate Eastern to contribute financially or participate in the project. Additional participation matters will return to the EMWD board for consideration in the future.
Joe Naiman can be reached by email at jnaiman@reedermedia. com
Anderson, who is transgender, is generally supportive of gender transitions but has voiced criticism of doctors who put minors through medical interventions without thorough psychological screening. Anderson rejects the notion that surging rates of transgender affiliation are driven wholly by social acceptance.
“I do not believe that there was this huge hidden number of transgender people in previous generations,” Anderson said.
The World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH), which supports medical interventions for children who believe they’re transgender, acknowledged the social contagion phenomenon in its newest standards of care. The guidelines acknowledged a sudden surge in “nonbinary” identities as well
WPATH is careful to avoid suggesting doctors should be skeptical of young people’s transgender identities or assume social influence is driving them.
“One of the false narratives is that young people are being lured in and directed somehow against their will to become transgender, which is not at all the case,” Dr. Dan Karasic, professor emeritus of psychiatry at the University of California San Francisco and lead author of the mental health chapter in WPATH’s new Standards of Care, told Reuters.
A growing group of so-called detransitioners — individuals who underwent cross-sex medical procedures but eventually came to regret it — have come out against childhood transitions, and many of them say they were influenced by social media and
The youth-dominated platform TikTok is flooded with content promoting medical interventions, including surgeries, as the solution to common adolescent woes such as discomfort with one’s body.
“Rising rates of transgender identification are driven by a combination of factors: the pandemic, social isolation and a huge upswing in consumption of social media. Deplorably, there are medical providers on TikTok telling kids that if they’re unhappy with their body, maybe they’re in the wrong body and should consider transition,” Anderson told the DCNF. “It’s horrible that kids are getting this kind of advice from unvetted strangers on the internet, most of whom have no medical qualifications.”
WPATH did not respond to the Daily Caller News Foundation’s request for comment.
Daily Caller News Foundation, an independent and nonpartisan newswire service.
RIVERSIDE - An investigation is continuing to determine what prompted the slaying of three people found inside a burning Riverside home, allegedly at the hands of a former Virginia law enforcement official who may have been “catfishing” a teen daughter of one of the victims and was later killed by San Bernardino County sheriff’s deputies.
After the suspect was killed in Needles Friday, Nov. 25, San Bernardino County officials identified him as 28-year-old Austin Lee Edwards, a resident of North Chesterfield, Virginia.
The bodies of 69-year-old Mark Winek, 65-year-old Sharie Winek and their youngest daughter, 38-year-old Brooke Winek were found late Friday morning inside a burning home in the 11000 block of Price Court, according to the Riverside Police Department. Police said there was clear evidence the three relatives did not die as a result of the fire.
According to a press release by Riverside County, the Riverside Fire Department arrived first and reported a working fire on the first floor of the residence. They initiated a fire attack, made entry, then discovered three adult victims laying on the ground in the front entryway. Their bodies were pulled outside where it was determined they were victims of an apparent homicide. Firefighters continued their efforts until the fire was placed under control and eventually extinguished.
Detectives with the Robbery/ Homicide Unit, along with specialists from the Forensics Unit, responded and assumed the investigation. They have been assisted by the Riverside County Sheriff-Coroner’s Office, the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office and Arson Investigators with the Riverside Fire Department.
Police initially responded to the area on reports of a young female who “appeared distressed while getting into a red Kia Soul with a man” a few houses away from where the fire was reported at about the same time.
Around 1:15 p.m. Monday, San Bernardino County sheriff’s deputies spotted the red Kia Soul on Highway 247, prompting a chase during which the driver, Edwards, fired shots at pursuing deputies, officials said. Edwards eventually lost control of the car and drove off the road. The young girl in the car with him escaped and was rescued by deputies, but Edwards got out of the car and allegedly pointed a gun at a sheriff’s helicopter, prompting deputies to open fire, killing him.
Detectives determined Edwards had met the teenage girl through the common form of online deception known as “catfishing,” where someone pretends to be a different person than they actually are. It is believed Edwards had developed an online relationship with the teen and obtained her personal information. He traveled from Virginia to Riverside where he parked his vehicle in a neighbor’s driveway and walked to the teen’s home. At some point, he murdered the teen’s grandfather, grandmother and mother before walking back to his vehicle with the teen and leaving. Detectives learned Edwards had worked for the Virginia State Police and until recently was employed at the Washington County Sheriff’s Office in the state of Virginia.
“Our hearts go out to the Winek family and their loved ones during this time of tremendous grief, as this is a tragedy for all Riversiders,” Riverside Police Chief Larry Gonzalez said. “This is yet another horrific reminder of the predators existing online who prey on our children. If you’ve already had a conversation with your kids on how to be safe online and on social media, have it again.
If not, start it now to better protect them.”
The teen was not injured, and authorities have said they do not believe she played any role in the killings or subsequent fire.
A GoFundMe account established to assist the Winek family had raised nearly $30,000 as of Monday morning. The link is at https://rb.gy/yo8ecr.
Anyone with additional and relevant information should contact Detective Josh Ontko at 951-353-7135 or JOntko@ RiversideCA.gov , or Detective Bryan Galbreath at 951-353-7105 or BGalbreath@RiversideCA. gov
A vigil was held in the Wineks’ memory Saturday night, with neighbors calling them a “neighborly” family that “went out of their way to help the
community.”
City News Service contributed to this report.
MENIFEE - Drivers of two vehicles in a five vehicle crash were critically hurt in a five-vehicle crash on Nov. 26. A total of nine people were involved, according to the Menifee Police Department. One person required extrication, according to the Riverside County Fire Department reported. The crash was reported around 12:15 p.m. Saturday near the intersection of Scott and Daily roads.
Menifee Police Department(PD) Officers and Cal Fire were dispatched to the scene. Initial responding officers discovered the collision involved five vehicles (A Tesla sedan, a Toyota sedan, Ford SUV, Kia Sedan, and a Jeep Wrangler). All of the vehicles sustained major collision damage and multiple occupants of the involved vehicles suffered injuries, according to a press release from Sergeant Tony Urich with the Menifee PD.
The drivers of the Ford and the Jeep were treated by paramedics and transported to a local hospital where they remained in critical condition. Occupants of the Toyota appeared to have suffered minor injuries and were also transported to a local hospital to be evaluated out an abundance of caution. Four of the patients were assessed and declined further medical care, according to the press release.
Menifee Police Department
traffic unit arrived on the scene and took over the investigation. Uninvolved witnesses reported seeing the Tesla sedan traveling eastbound on Scott Rd. in an erratic manner just prior to the occurrence of the collision. The female driver of the Tesla was evaluated for impairment and arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence of a controlled substance.
Scott, between Daily Roadand Murrieta Road was closed in both directions for several hours while officers investigated the collision. The collision is still under investigation.
Anyone with additional information regarding the collision is asked to contact the Menifee PD Traffic Unit at (951) 723-1690 or (951) 723-1565.
Southern California Edison was en route to the scene to assess damage to a power pole.
A single-vehicle crash left one person dead and another victim critically injured in Temecula, the California Highway Patrol reported on Saturday, Nov. 27.
The crash was reported at 11:45 a.m. on southbound Interstate 215 just north of Clinton Keith Road.
According to the CHP, a woman behind the wheel of a 2004 Toyota Corolla was driving southbound and steered toward the Clinton Keith Road off-ramp. The driver then steered back to the No. 3 lane of the freeway, then suddenly steered sharply to the right, causing the car to slide sideways and strike a freeway exit sign. After striking the sign, the car continued in a southwesterly direction, and the left side of the vehicle struck a light pole.
Cal Fire responded to the crash and pronounced the driver dead at the scene. A passenger in the car suffered major injuries and was taken to Inland Valley Hospital, authorities reported.
The driver was a 23-year-old woman from Portland, Oregon and the passenger was a 22-year-old woman from Camas, Washington.
The crash was still under investigation.
Single-vehicle crash leaves one dead, one critically injured in Temecula
According
“Dan and I did the summit of Mt. Whitney together last summer on the 50th anniversary of my first ascent of that mountain. He and I are the same age. I don’t know many others besides Dan who are crazy enough to do things like this,” 70-year-old Dolan said.
The summit was successfully achieved, as the men reached the Mount San Jacinto Peak in a climb that totaled 12 miles.
“I have always enjoyed physical challenges, staying active and the great outdoors,” Dolan said. He first hiked this mountain
in October, 1972. Now 50 years later, Dolan is still up for a good challenge.
“I did this hike several times in the 70s and 80s,” he explained. “In October 2012, I realized this was the 40th anniversary of the first ascent. So my son Wyatt and I did it together to celebrate. I thought to myself, why stop at 40 years?”
Dolan also successfully hiked to the summit in 2013, 2014 and again in 2017. This year was his 50-year anniversary. The trek took just over six hours, including rest stops. It was about four hours to ascend and two hours to descend the rugged trail.
Dolan has lots of love and support from family and friends for his many adventures. His wife, Lois, encourages his pursuits.
“My wife is always supportive of my outdoor adventures and very happy to have a husband who is
still moving and doing what he enjoys. She is glad to get me out of the house,” he joked.
In 2021, Dolan recognized the 50th anniversary of his first ascent to the summit of Mt. Whitney. At 14,495 feet of elevation, Mt. Whitney is the highest mountain in the continental United States.
“My best advice is to keep moving and enjoy the great outdoors,” he said.
Dolan is best known for his fishing newspaper column. His gentle, friendly nature comes across in his writing, as he loves to teach and share his fishing secrets. He travels worldwide pursuing his worthy prey and advocating environmental responsibility and respect for nature.
Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia.
“Freedom
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.
ONGOING – Anza Electric Cooperative and F.I.N.D. Food Bank offers a free mobile food pantry the second Saturday of every month at the AEC office, 58470 Highway 371, from 10:3011:30 a.m. All are welcome. CalFresh application assistance and free community health services are also available. Bring your own reusable bags to take food home. Volunteers welcome. For more information, contact the AEC office at 951-763-4333.
Hamilton High School – Find out what is happening using Hamilton’s online calendar at
http://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 http:// www.hamiltonmuseum.org. Find them on Facebook at “HamiltonMuseum-and-Ranch-Foundation.”
Backcountry Horsemen Redshank Riders – Meeting monthly 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.
Thursdays at the Anza Community Hall. To order a paid box and help feed those who can’t afford to pay, drop off payment and cash donations by Thursday at 1:30 p.m., to ERA Excel Realty, 56070 Highway 371, in Anza. Pay inside or drop off during the day in the red box outside. To drop it off, put name and request on an envelope with payment inside. A $30 box has about $100 worth of food and feeds six people. Half boxes are available for $15. Food is delivered once a week to those who cannot find a ride. For more information, call Bill Donahue at 951-288-0903.
Living Hope Christian Fellowship Community Dinner 1 p.m. Dinners are held the last Sunday of the month at the Anza Community Hall. All are welcome. Donations of time, money, etc. are always welcome.
morning worship at 10:30 a.m.
On Sunday nights, the church has prayer on the 1st and 4th Sundays from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. and Bible study on the 2nd and 3rd Sundays from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. On Monday evenings, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., the youth group (6th to 12th 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 Senior’s Ministry. The church office is open Wednesday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 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.
Hotchkiss at 951-551-3154.
Boys Scouts Troop 371 – Boy Scouts meet at Lake Riverside Estates. For more information, call Ginny Kinser at 909-702-7902. 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 http://www.squadron59.org.
Fire Explorer Program – 6 p.m. The program meets every second, third and fourth Tuesday of the month at Fire Station 29 on state Route 371 in Anza. Call 951763-5611 for information.
ANZA VALLEY OUTLOOK MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. BOX 391353, Anza, CA 92539 PHONE: (760) 723-7319 PHONE: (951) 763-5510 FAX: (760) 723-9606
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 Christ-centered recovery program for all kinds of addiction meets Fridays from 7-8:30 p.m. and Tuesdays from 8-10 a.m. Program is court approved; child care is provided. Transportation help is available. The group meets at 58050 Highway 371; the cross street is Kirby Road in Anza.
AA Men’s Meeting – 7 p.m. Meetings take place Thursdays at 39551 Kirby Road in Anza, south of Highway 371.
Alcoholics Anonymous – 8 p.m. Wednesday evenings at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 56095 Pena Road in Anza. For more information, call 951763-4226.
Bereaved Parents of the USA – The Aguanga-Anza Chapter of BPUSA will hold its meetings at 6 p.m. on the first and third Wednesday of each month at 49109 Lakeshore Blvd. in Aguanga. For more information, contact chapter leader Linda Hardee at 951-5512826.
Free Mobile Health Clinic –Open every third Wednesday of the month from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. No appointment is needed. Uninsured may only be seen in the Anza Community Hall’s parking lot or inside the hall.
Medication Assistance and Treatment for Opioid Dependence – Get treatment for heroin addiction. Transportation to the clinic is provided. For more information, contact Borrego Health’s Anza Community Health Center, 58581 Route 371, in Anza. For more information, call 951763-4759.
Food ministries
F.U.N. Group weekly food ministry – Deliveries arrive noon
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 non-denominational nonprofit. All in need are welcome; call Esther Barragan at 951-763-5636.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Anza Sunday Sacrament is held 10 a.m.; Sunday School is 11 a.m. Priesthood/Relief Society meets noon; Wednesday Boy Scouts gathers 6 p.m. and Youth Night is 7 p.m. For more information, call Ruiz at 951-445-7180 or Nathan at 760-399-0727. The Wednesday Genealogy/Family History Class, 5-8 p.m., is open to the public at 39075 Contreras Road in Anza.
Native Lighthouse Fellowship 10 a.m. The group meets the first Saturday of the month, and breakfast is served. All are welcome to fellowship together at the “Tribal Hall” below the casino in Anza. For more information, call Nella Heredia at 951-7630856.
Living Hope Bible Study 8-10 a.m. Tuesdays at Living Hope Christian Fellowship, 58050 Highway 371, in 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 fourth 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 9:00 a.m., followed by Sunday
Clubs High Country Recreation –Second Monday of the month attend committee meetings at ERA Excel Realty in Anza. For more information, call Albert Rodriguez at 951-492-1624 or Robyn Garrison at 805-312-0369.
HCR Bingo fundraisers 6:30-9:30 p.m. second and fourth Fridays at Anza Community Hall.
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 – 6:30 p.m. Meetings are on the third Wednesday 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 – 1 p.m. Meetings 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 http://www. facebook.com/AnzaValleyArtists/ Anza Quilter’s Club – 9:30 a.m. to noon. Meets the first and third Tuesday of each month at the Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 56095 Pena Road, in Anza.
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 https://www.facebook. com/LionsofAnzaValley. For more information, email president Greg Sandling at President. AnzaLions@gmail.com or Chris Skinner at Secretary.AnzaLions@ gmail.com
Boy Scouts Troop 319 – Cub Scouts meet 6 p.m. every Tuesday, and Boy Scouts meet 7 p.m. every Wednesday at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Contreras Road, south of state Route 371, in Anza. For more information, call Richard
Redshank Riders – 7 p.m. Backcountry horsemen meet at the Little Red Schoolhouse in Anza, the second Thursday of each month. Visit http://www. redshankriders.com or call Carol Schmuhl for membership information at 951-663-6763.
Anza Thimble Club – The club meets the first Thursday of the month at Valley Gospel Chapel, 43275 Chapman Road in Anza. The social hour is 11:30 a.m., and lunch is served at noon. Contact Carol Wright at 951-763-2884 for more information.
Organizations Terwilliger Community Association – 6 p.m. Second Monday of the month at VFW Post 1873, 59011 Bailey Road, in Anza. Potluck dinner open to all. For more information, call Tonie Ford at 951-763-4560.
From the Heart Christian Women’s Ministries – Noon. Monthly luncheon and guest speaker are held the second Saturday of each month. The $5 charge covers lunch at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 56095 Pena Road, in Anza. From the Heart helps the area’s neediest children and invites all women and men to join in their mission. Donate or help with the rummage sales twice a year to raise funds for the cause or other events. For more information, call president Christi James at 951-595-2400.
Anza Community Hall – 7 p.m. General membership meetings are held the fourth Thursday of the month. Memberships cost $20 per person or $35 per business, and both get one vote. No government funds are allocated for the Hall, which pays its bills through memberships and swap meets. Voting members receive discounts off hall rentals, swap meet booths and save on propane gas from Ferrellgas. Mail membership to: Anza Community Building Inc. at P.O. Box 390091, Anza, CA 92539. The hall is located at 56630 Highway 371 in Anza. Swap meet held each Saturday of the month, weather permitting, early morning to 1 p.m. Vendors wanted. For more information, call 951-2824267.
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 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 http:// www.anzacivic.org.
The Lions Club of Anza Valley hosted its final turkey shoot of the 2022 season at the Minor Field shooting range Sunday, Nov. 20. Besides a full turkey shoot event, there was a potluck meal to be enjoyed by all. The muchanticipated championship awards were also presented after all points earned were tallied up.
The 2022 Lions Club of Anza Valley Grand Champion was Ian Evans, with Eric Gregoire bringing up a close second. Ladies Champion was Christopher Skinner and Youth Champion was Hunter Dulaney. All three champions won 20-pound turkeys and were presented with trophies.
Dennis McQueary and Artie Simonsen tied for the men’s Most Improved, while the ladies champ was Brenda Cowan. Several dedicated players were awarded for their Perfect Attendance. They were Christopher Skinner, Leslie Price, Niel McQueary, Artie Simonsen, Robert Shingleton, Eric
Gregoire, Jules Cowan and Ramiro Grana.
All skill levels are welcome at these events.
A turkey shoot is a shotgun shooting contest where frozen turkeys are often awarded as prizes. The targets are clay pigeons, commonly called skeet and made of a biodegradable ceramic type material that decomposes into the soil. The skeets are flung from a remotely controlled machine and fly quite a distance, making for great sport and shows of skill.
Original turkey shoots long ago were contests in which live turkeys were shot at distances from 25-35 yards, but that is no longer the case. No live birds were harmed at the Lions’ event.
For more information regarding the Lions Club of Anza Valley, or if interested in becoming a member, please email Greg Sandling at President.AnzaLions@gmail.com or visit the club at www.facebook. com/LionsofAnzaValley.
Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia. com
Fortunately, the tractor remained on the road, though tipped at an uncomfortable angle.
The incident was reported at 6:17 p.m. on Nov. 18.
“The driver is OK,” one of the recovery technicians stated. “Nothing hurt but his pride.”
The accident closed the narrow road in both directions while recovery and hazmat teams assessed the situation and planned for towing the big rig.
Recovery was undertaken by Statewide Towing & Recovery and Statewide Emergency Services Inc. and assisted by Caltrans and other agencies Saturday, Nov. 19.
The feat required two huge 40ton Peterbilt tow trucks, called rotators, equipped with powerful booms, winches and cables to handle oversized vehicles. Both units backed down two miles of winding dirt road to reach the accident site. The crews expertly rigged straps and cables, both for safety and to gently tug the trailer back onto the road surface. There was the risk that the trailer could break apart, spilling the remaining contents into the steep canyon.
However, the recovery was accomplished without a hitch, as
LOS ANGELES – As the bustle of holiday traffic returns to pre-pandemic levels, travelers shuffling through LAX with their bags and passports in tow can expect to see another sight return to the international airport for the first time since March 2020:
Jehovah’s Witnesses standing next to mobile carts featuring colorful literature in a variety of languages.
Industry analysts and airport officials said that passenger traffic on U.S. airlines in 2022 could reach or exceed pre-pandemic numbers. In 2019, an estimated 3.21 million travelers passed through LAX during the two-week Thanksgiving period, compared to the two million travelers in 2021.
If estimates are correct, travelers at LAX will see a 60% increase in traffic over last year’s hustle and bustle.
While a return to pre-pandemic levels of traffic may not bring a smile to everyone’s face, Jehovah’s Witnesses said it hoped returning to LAX would bring a bit of joy to travelers who pass their mobile displays.
“After two years of the pandemic, this is the first time many people are starting to travel again. During that time, many lost loved ones, experienced illness themselves or felt isolated due to social distancing,” Lomita resident Rudy Gonzales said. “We have an opportunity to help comfort people from the Scriptures.”
The volunteer work of Jehovah’s Witnesses at LAX began in 2015. Then, in early 2020, Jehovah’s Witnesses suspended all in-person forms of their ministry out of concern for the health and safety of the community. In September, they recommenced their public preaching work.
“Returning to the iconic LAX after more than two years is an exciting moment,” David Cohen, local representative for Jehovah’s Witnesses in California, said. “The
Jehovah’s Witnesses resume their public ministry at LAX after an
world has been through so much these past three years. We look forward to connecting with our community to share the Bible’s message of something better.”
This year around 200 Witnesses will volunteer at carts in each of the seven terminals at LAX. On the two busiest travel days of the holiday season, Nov. 23 and Nov. 27, volunteers were on hand from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Many volunteers took time off
work to participate.
“Sharing the Bible’s message of the good news of God’s Kingdom and what it will do for mankind is such an important work that it’s worth taking time away from my secular job,” Gonzales said.
Witnesses said their volunteer work at LAX is truly about helping the community.
“Because our website jw.org has content in 1070 languages, it makes it possible for virtually
anyone to access material in their own language,” Michael Oshiro of Torrance said.
Lisa Barlow, a breast cancer survivor and Los Angeles area Witness, said, “Being at LAX keeps me focused on helping people and not worrying so much about my own personal issues.”
“A fellow volunteer once compared our carts to first-aid kits that are readily accessible in public places should a need ever
arise. I personally enjoy making the comfort and hope from the Bible ever-present and available for anyone who passes through LAX,” Oshiro’s wife, Raena, said.
LAX is just one of many airports around the world where travelers will find Jehovah’s Witnesses this holiday travel season.
Submitted by Jehovah’s Witnesses.
FARM from page D-1
in 2016 in Anza and moved to its current location in May of 2019,” Edmisten said. “What started with a few dogs, chickens and two goats has blossomed into so much more.”
Horses, a herd of goats, a flock of chickens, working guardian livestock dogs and barn cats call the festive farm home.
“We have raised turkeys and will do so again in the future, and started to teach animal processing, beginner farm animal knowledge and how to start your own farm classes,” she said.
Education and fun are passions of the Freedom Farm owners. They host group and private paint and sip events as well as instructional classes.
“There is a garden for our family, and we raise chickens for eggs and
meat. The goats are bred for milk to make soap and cheese and to sell the babies to new farm families so they can start their own quality herds,” Edmisten said. Future plans will include more involved and extensive farm tours and events, more classes, educational tours and homeschool days.
“We’re planning photo sessions where you can bring your own photographer and get those family, graduation or just-for-fun pictures with or without animals such as chicks and kid goats,” she added.
Many more open houses are planned that will include some of the area’s most talented artisans.
For more information about upcoming events at Freedom Farm, visit them at www.facebook. com/Putemupranch.
Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia. com
Covid vaccine mandate asap, even though the risk doesn’t make sense against the benefit for a disease that literally no healthy child has died from and, as a matter of fact, there have been documented thousands of adverse events and death, especially for young men aged 14 to 24, which is the age of many of our military men.
A lawsuit was filed by Let Them Breath, a San Diego Countybased nonprofit advocacy group challenging SDUSD’s mandate.
prevent infection and transmission. Kudos to ICAN [Informed Consent Action Network] and its lawyers for a critical win.”
According to the case history accompanying the court’s December 2021 ruling, a similar lawsuit was filed by the parent of a 16-year-old student in the SDUSD. The two lawsuits were then consolidated into a single case.
Reeder PublisherThe 4th Circuit Court of Appeals last week ruled against the San Diego Unified School District in a precedent-setting decision for the State of California regarding COVID-19 vaccine mandates to attend school in person.
A lower state court found in December 2021 that school districts cannot impose vaccine mandates on their own, in addition to the vaccines required by the state as a precondition for in person attendance. No doubt the California legislature will be working feverishly to pass the
According to Let Them Choose, this was the first COVID-19 vaccine mandate in the U.S. to be struck down in a final ruling, and the new decision upholding the original court ruling “sets precedent for all California school districts.”
Remarking on the decision, Mary Holland, president and general counsel of Children’s Health Defense (CHD) said, ““It is great news that the California appellate court affirmed that vaccine mandates under California law must come from the state, not the school district.
“This is especially welcome news as the injection in question, the COVID-19 shot, is neither safe nor effective, nor even a vaccine in any normal sense as it fails to
Attorneys for ICAN, an Austinbased advocacy group active in challenging various COVID19-related mandates across the U.S. and pressing for the release of government data related to COVID-19 vaccine injuries, represented the parent who sued the SDUSD.
While medical exemptions were permitted, exemptions for religious and personal reasons were not, in line with stipulations set forth in California Senate Bill 277 (SB 277).
In May 2022, the SDUSD paused the mandate until at least July 2023, although the reasons cited for this pause included “the vaccines’ lower effectiveness against the virus’ Omicron variant and amid delays in full federal approval of the vaccine for children under 16 years old,” the San Diego
Union-Tribune reported. The 4th District Court’s 19page decision rejected multiple arguments by SDUSD, including the school district’s claim that its mandate was aligned with its responsibility to keep students healthy and safe and that school districts can develop policies to “meet local needs.”
According to the ruling, the SDUSD mandate “unlawfully seeks to usurp [the] authority” of the California state legislature in enacting vaccine requirements for school children in the state. It looks like discrimination to me. Parents are tired of bad science, discrimination, and forcing their kids to get an experimental vaccine that is neither safe nor effective and in fact, is potentially dangerous. Sudden deaths have massively increased since 2021 and it’s not from Covid, according to Edward Dowd, an ex BlackRock Manager that has had a team studying the data in the last few months that has amassed evidence from the insurance industry, funeral home industry, and government databases showing an alarming increase in deaths of young healthy people in 2021 versus 2020. Dowd has a book being released mid December 2022.
There’s a reason that parents have fought hard to win school board races across the country. I don’t expect the fight will get easier, especially when the industries funding our federal regulatory agencies, like the CDC and the FDA, are funded by the very companies they are supposed to be regulating and because they are the largest financiers of politicians and lobbyists.
I’m sure some of our readers are tired of the subject and wish I would stop reporting on this, but what is more important than the health of our kids? Let Them Breathe has proven that it’s worth it to stay in the fight and not give up. The health of our kids is worth it. Our kids are worth it. It’s not time to ease up. Keep educating yourself and be skeptical and vigilant while we still have those freedoms which are being defended in courtrooms across the country.
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Children’s Health Defense contributed to this piece.
