Valley-Wide Recreation and Park District has scheduled several holiday events throughout the region in December.
JDS
Creative Academy celebrates a year of creativity, milestones, and community impact in 2024
Karlee Skipper Special to Valley News
2024 has been a year of milestones and the fostering of creativity for JDS Creative Academy (JDSCA). Through its Title-17 job training program, extracurricular classes, and engaging community events, the organization has solidified its role as a leading force in the Inland Empire’s creative scene.
Motorists traveling on westbound SR 91 will find full weeknight closures through Dec. 18
Tony Ault Staff Writer
The Riverside County Transportation District is notifying motorists traveling through Corona to be advised to steer clear of full weeknight closures of westbound 91. Now through Dec. 18, the westbound 91 will be closed between the 71 and Green River Road on Monday through Wednesday nights as part of RCTC’s 71/91 Interchange Project. Due to the holidays, no closures will be scheduled from Dec. 20 through Jan. 1, 2025. Closures are anticipated to restart on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025.
Stephanie Roseen appointed as Menifee City Clerk
The City of Menifee is announced the appointment of Stephanie Roseen as City Clerk. Roseen has been with the City of Menifee since 2018, most recently serving as the Acting City Clerk. She previously served as Assistant City Clerk. Roseen has nearly 10 years of city clerk experience. Prior to working in Menifee, she served as the Deputy City Clerk for the City of Canyon Lake. She is also a certified municipal clerk and notary public.
“Stephanie has ensured that our public meetings are held to the highest standards and that we continue to provide our community with important notices, election information, and access
to public records,” said Menifee City Manager Armando G. Villa. “Having Stephanie in this critical role will allow her to continue the great work she has achieved in our City Clerk’s Office.”
Under her leadership in Menifee, Roseen managed the implementation of the City’s agenda management software and central records repository system, ensuring streamlined access to public records. She has also helped conduct five local municipal elections and successfully launched a passport program at City Hall, providing convenient local access to passport services.
“Serving as the City Clerk for see ROSEEN, page A-4
Stephanie Roseen. Valley News/Courtesy photo
Valley-Wide Recreation schedules holiday events
Valley-Wide Recreation and Park District has scheduled several holiday events throughout the region in December. A tree lighting will be Friday,
Dec. 6 at Regional Park in San Jacinto, at 901 W. Esplanade Ave.
The free event begins at 5:30 p.m. with the lighting around 6, followed by a showing of “Mickey’s
Christmas Carol” and free cookies, cocoa and coffee. Santa will be making a visit, as well. Breakfast with Santa will be from 8 to 10:30 a.m. Saturday,
Dec. 14 in the Michael Paul Gym at Regional Park in San Jacinto. The cost is $3 per person, which includes a pancake breakfast. Activities include children’s games and arts & crafts. There will be drawings for a chance to win bikes and other prizes. The grand prize is a $600 Disney gift card donated by Friends of Valley-Wide Foundation. Tickets should be purchased in advance at the gym or Valle Vista Community Center. There also will be a Gingerbread House event from 6 to 8 p.m. Dec. 10 at the Valle Vista Community Center, located at 43935 Acacia Avenue in Hemet. Tickets must be purchased in advance at the facilities or online at gorecreation.org, as kits are limited. The cost is $3 per kit. Grinch’mas in Winchester will be held Dec. 11 at the Winchester Community Center, located at 32665 Haddock Street, Winchester. The free event will be from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. and will feature a visit from the Grinch, the reading of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” raffles and refreshments. Families can get photos with Santa at each event. More information can be found at gorecreation. org or by calling 951-654-1505. Submitted by Valley-Wide Recreation and Park District.
Angelo Ortiz, 5, meets Santa and tells him what he would like for Christmas. SANTA from page A-1
Valley News/Shane Gibson photo
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LOCAL
SAGE Society’s December presentation to feature the Aviation History of Hemet
A historic photo shows flight instructor Maure Solt with a class of cadets. Hemet Heritage Foundation/Hemet Depot Museum
SAGE Society invites the public to attend a presentation on the Aviation History of Hemet on Tuesday, Dec. 10. The presenter, local historian Ken Graff, will share “The Story of Riverside County’s Hemet Ryan Airport and A History of Local Aviation.” He will feature stories from his book “Mr. Ryan’s Field” which will be available. Ken wrote this book to share and preserve as much of the history of the Ryan Field story in one place as possible.
Ryan Field’s rich history includes its years as a training base
ROSEEN from page A-1
Menifee is a tremendous honor that comes with a great responsibility in ensuring we maintain integrity and compliance in our meetings and business operations,” said Roseen. “I look forward to working with our City’s leadership and staff to continue the strong precedent we have set in being open and transparent.” Roseen’s appointment as City Clerk is effective December 2.
Valley News/Courtesy photo
for World War II Army Cadets who learned to fly there when it opened, as well as hundreds who worked there during the war years.
In the decades since the war, Ryan Field has played a part in the lives of thousands more who either worked for, or supplied, the many businesses that got their start there. They included the amazing history of crop dusting and firefighting airplanes.
Ken was born in 1947 in Monterey Park, and moved to Hemet at the age of seven.
He was hired by Hemet Valley
Flying Service as a ‘line boy’ in January 1960, where was introduced to many of the Ryan flight instructors from the war years who came to sit around the airport drinking coffee and reliving Ryan stories on weekends.
He began flying lessons at fifteen, soloed on his sixteenth birthday, private pilot’s license at seventeen and achieved Commercial pilot with Instrument, and Multi-engine ratings at eighteen. Began flying as a Forestry Pilot during the 1965 fire season four days after graduating from Hemet High School.
He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1966 and served as a Loadmaster on C-130 A, B, and E model cargo planes with two years flying in Vietnam and one year as an instructor on AC-47 Gunships.
From 1970 until 1990 his Hemet Valley Flying Services duties included flying firefighting and agricultural aircraft.
He assumed management of maintenance and operations of the company’s Stockton facility for five years operating the Department of Forestry’s 33 aircraft fleet of S2 Air Tankers and Cessna 0-2 Air Attack aircraft.
With the closing of Stockton in 1990 he moved to Arkansas and opened Graff Aviation, a full-service fixed base operation,
and within a few months became manager of the Clarksville Airport for the City.
In 1993 joined Hyline International Airlines based in Palau, operating a Boeing 727 to carry fish from various islands to Guam and Saipan for the Chinese and Taiwanese fishing fleets of Palau and the Marshall Islands.
In 1996 returned to take over Hemet Valley Flying Service when Jim Venable, owner of the company, became a County Supervisor.
In 2000 he assumed the role of a Legislative Assistant in the Third District County Supervisor’s office. Left the Supervisor’s staff in 2004 to join the newly created Western Riverside County Regional Conservation Authority (RCA) as an Administrative Services Officer and later Director of Land Acquisition & Property Management for the agency responsible for acquiring and maintaining habitat reserves.
He retired from the RCA in June of 2011 and spent spare time at Hemet Ryan Airport in various activities, including roles with the Hemet Hangar of “Quiet Birdmen” and other groups that promoted activities and improvements at the airport.
When the Ryan School of Aeronautics Museum closed its doors,
he volunteered to inventory the entire contents of the Museum, catalog items, and pack for storage until a new location or interest in the museum was rekindled.
In preparation for the 80th Anniversary of the Hemet-Ryan Airport he began researching the history of Ryan using much of the information and records found in the Ryan Museum inventory. Other information came from newspaper research and personal recollections from fifty years at the airport. In February of 2020 self-published “Mr. Ryan’s Field” to be shared at events proposed to celebrate the anniversary of the airport.
Interest in the airport’s history and “Mr. Ryan’s Field” rekindled recently through word of mouth and a powerpoint presentation shared with local groups.
Join the SAGE Society on Tuesday, Dec. 10 at 1:30 p.m. for social time, 2 p.m. for this presentation at the Ramona Room behind Miller-Jones Mortuary, 1501 W. Florida Ave. in Hemet. Parking is in the rear. The public is welcome to attend.
The SAGE Society of Hemet (Search for Adventure in Greater Education) provides a forum for people to engage in programs and activities of intellectual stimulation.
Murrieta PD seeks witnesses of fatal collision
MURRIETA – The Murrieta Police Department Dispatch Center received a 911 call on Nov. 27, at around 6:29 p.m., regarding a vehicle that collided with a person on Murrieta Hot Springs Road at Calle Del Lago.
Murrieta Fire & Rescue and Murrieta Police officers arrived and located an adult female in the roadway with significant injuries. Life-saving measures were taken, but unfortunately, the female succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Murrieta Police Traffic Bureau Investigators arrived and assumed the investigation. The driver of the vehicle remained on the scene and was cooperative. He provided investigators with a statement and did not display any signs or symptoms of impairment. Preliminary investigations suggest that the fe-
male was walking in the roadway or attempting to cross it when she was struck by the vehicle. Based on statements Traffic Investigators received, it is believed that several other vehicles were in the area during and immediately after the accident. Traffic Investigators would like to speak with anyone who witnessed the incident. Anyone with information related to this traffic collision and
who has not been contacted by a Murrieta Police officer or investigators is encouraged to contact Murrieta Police Traffic Investigator Larsen at 951-461-6303 or plarsen@murrietaca.gov or Traffic Bureau Sergeant Steve Whiddon at 951-461-6323 or swhiddon@ murrietaca.gov. Submitted by Murrieta Police Department.
Diamond Valley Lake tower named after N. Gregory Taylor
Joe Naiman Special to Valley News
The inlet/outlet tower at Diamond Valley Lake has been named after former Metropolitan Water District of Southern California general counsel N. Gregory Taylor.
The Nov. 19 MWD board meeting included an approved motion to name the tower in honor of Taylor, who was the MWD general counsel from 1993 to 2000. Diamond Valley Lake was built during Taylor’s tenure and completed in 2000.
MWD’s facilities naming policy establishes criteria and procedures to submit a request to name a Metropolitan Water District facility after a person. The criteria includes that the person had a substantial, important, and positive impact on MWD as a board or staff member and/or demonstrated distinguished civic achievements while maintaining close ties with and providing significant support to MWD and/or the water industry. Former MWD general managers Ronald Gastelum and Jeffrey Kightlinger and current MWD general counsel Marcia Scully submitted nomination paperwork requesting that the inlet/outlet tower be named after Taylor.
Taylor had worked in the office of the state Attorney General for more than 25 years before joining the MWD staff in 1991 as a special assistant to general manager Carl Boronkay. After general counsel Fred Vendig retired in 1993 the MWD board selected Taylor as the new general counsel. He served in that position until his retirement in 2000. Taylor died in March 2023 at the age of 88.
Diamond Valley Lake is the state’s largest surface water reservoir with a storage capacity of 810,000 acre-feet. The reservoir provides emergency storage in the event of a major disaster, carryover storage to supply water under drought conditions, and seasonal storage to meet annual demands of MWD member agencies. Diamond Valley Lake also provides
recreational opportunities along with water supply benefits and includes a trail system and the east marina which has public access for boat launches and rentals.
Taylor negotiated with Federal and state agencies for the environmental mitigation including the purchase of 3,700 acres which were added to the Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve. He was also the lead MWD staff member for the permitting of Diamond Valley Lake. No lawsuits were filed to seek to stop the Diamond Valley Lake construction. Groundbreaking on Diamond Valley Lake took place in 1995.
The inlet/outlet tower is east of Owen Dam and is 266 feet high.
The tower has nine tiers with twin ports seven feet in diameter which are spaced 25 feet apart and allow water to enter or exit at different lake elevations. The flow through each port is controlled by a hydraulically operated butterfly valve. The water which passes through the tower can be diverted to the Hiram W. Wadsworth Pumping Plant, to a pressure control structure adjacent to the pumping plant, or to the Eastside pipeline which conveys water north to the Lakeview Pipeline or to the Colorado River Aqueduct.
Taylor also worked on behalf of MWD to create the Southwestern Riverside County Multi-Species Reserve. The original reserve included 9,000 acres which surround and connect Diamond Valley Lake with nearby Lake Skinner through the 2,500-acre Dr. Roy Shipley Reserve, which was also purchased by MWD. Taylor helped establish a total of four multiplespecies habitat conservation plans prior to his retirement. He also helped negotiate land acquisitions and exchanges with the U.S. Forest Service and the California Department of Fish and Game for MWD’s Inland Feeder which runs between Silverwood Lake (which has a Hesperia ZIP code) and Diamond Valley Lake.
The MWD fiscal impact to name the inlet/outlet tower after Taylor
includes $6,000 to $10,000 for the design and installation of signage and changing facility records. An additional $12,000 to $40,000 of expenses for planning, logistics, outreach, and staffing the dedica-
It’s a TAKE3 Christmas! Sunday, December 15th at 2 pm
These world-class artists bring their unmistakable style and infectious joy in music-making back to Fallbrook with their special Holiday Program. The concert includes their fabulous interpretations of classics such as Ave Maria, Silent Night, All I Want for Christmas is You, O Holy Night, and Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, among others. With a flair for the wild and unexpected, this genre-defying group is nothing short of magical. It will be an afternoon to be remembered!
Tickets: $20 Advance; $25 after 12 pm Day of Show Children 18 and under FREE Purchase tickets at www.fallbrookmusicsociety.org
Concert location: Bob Burton Center for the Performing Arts at Fallbrook High 2400 S. Stage Coach Lane, Fallbrook
e Nutcracker brings magic to the Old Town Temecula Community eater
Valley News/Julie Reeder photos
Soldier girl dolls were performed by Macie Harkins and Raegan Linnell.
Lorelei Helfrich and Valerie Lemos perform as Harlequins.
The Nutcracker toy (David Waisman) that is given to Masha as a gift from her godfather Drosselmeyer (Samuel Waisman). The Nutcracker is depicted as a wooden toy soldier, which comes to life as the Nutcracker Prince after the magic happens.
Masha and her Nutcracker Prince enjoy the Sugarplum Fairy and her ladies.
Snow scenes and dances added to the Winter feeling of the Nutcracker.
The Nutcracker Prince (David Waisman) dances with the Sugarplum Fairy (Laura Theisen).
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
To submit an upcoming community event, email it to valleyeditor@reedermedia.com, put “attention events” in the subject line.
CHILDREN’S EVENTS
Dec. 5 – 11 to 18-year-olds looking for a fun and safe location for them to spend some time with friends and engage in exciting activities look at the Temecula Teen Zone located at the Ronald J. Parks Community Recreation Center at 30875 Rancho Vista Road. Although there are a variety of great offerings all year round. A lineup of those activities this winter can be found at the park.
Dec. 5 – Valley-Wide Park and Recreation District youth registration sign-ups are underway for Youth Basketball grades 1-8 and Youth Baseball/girls softball ages 5 - 14 at the Menifee, French Valley gyms that begin soon. Contact www.gorecreation.org or call 951654-1505.
Please check the webpages for the city you live in for the latest events happening for children and youths in your community this summer. There are many youth sports programs, educational programs, city park entertainment and more to keep children of all ages occupied and interested. Valley-Wide Recreation also has many children’s activities. Please visit www.gorecreation.org.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
Dec. 5 – MilVets Holidays for Heroes Toy Drive is underway for military and veteran families. Shop for or adopt a military/ veteran family for the holiday season. Toy drop off at MilVet in Murrieta on Tuesdays, the Wildomar Library, Which Wich Murrieta, Visit www.milvet.org/ santa for complete list of drop off locations. Toys and gifts to be given away to the military families on Dec. 15. Sponsors and vendors are available.
Dec. 5-9 – Menifee’s Xreme Light Fight for residents decorating their homes for the Christmas Holidays. Applications for the contest are being accepted by the Community Services Department. Judging begins on Dec. 13 with prizes being awarded for five categories. Apply at cityofmenifee. us/specialevents or call 951-7233880.
Dec. 6 – 7 p.m City of Temecula Christmas Paradebegins in Old Town Temecula
Dec. 7 – 4-8:30 p.m. Lake Elsinore, Winterfest on Historic Main Street on Dec. 7, this annual family tradition will bring holiday joy. Take photos with Santa, experience snowy sled runs, and be dazzled by the parade.
Dec. 7 – 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. Wildomar’s Breakfast with Santa is planned at Marna O’Brien Park, 20505 Palomar Street. Santa will be there for photos and to hear the littles share their Christmas
Crossword Puzzle
Theme: Happy Holidays
wishes. Breakfast includes pancakes, donuts, sausage, and coffee. Dec. 7 – 9-10:30 a.m. Dunkin Donuts are hosting Donuts with Santa at Town Square Park in Murrieta. Admission is one nonperishable food item per child (including a dog or cat food item, or dog or cat treats and kitty litter), and donuts will be handed out to the first 500 children who arrive.
Dec. 7 – 4-8 p.m. Menifee Christmas Tree Lighting and Community Parade at Mt. San Jacinto College, 28237 Piedra Road. Snow Zone, youth activities, performances, Santa photos and more.
Dec. 12-Jan 5. – Daily Temecula on Ice with state-of-the-art ice rink, rental skates, Bobby skating aid and its own radio station playing the best ice skating music. Buy tickets online at https:// temeculaonice.simpletix.com. $10 to $21. For questions please email temeculaonice@gmail.com
Dec. 14 – 8 a.m.Breakfast with Santa at the Kay Ceniceros Senior Center, 3 sessions. $12 a plate. Reservations see cityofmenifee. us/specialevents or call 951-7233880.
Dec. 15 – 12-4 p.m. Holidays for Heroes Toy Event for Military/ Veteran Families will take place in Temecula. Location pending with required military family registration It will include live music, craft/game vendors, raffles, face painting, resources for military families (County of Riverside Veteran Services), speakers will be Senator Seyarto, Councilwoman Jessica Alexander, and more), photos with Santa, toys, special characters and each child will receive a large bag of gifts from their wishlist.
Dec. 15 – 4 p.m. Temecula Valley Symphony and Temecula Ballet are bringing an afternoon of holiday magic with music and dances from the Nutcracker. The symphony will also be performing heartwarming and joyful holiday music. Show at Temecula Valley High School Golden Bears Theater, 31555 Rancho Vista Road, Temecula. Tickets are $35 for adults, $30 for seniors & military, $20 for students 25 and under, and free for children 12 and under. For more info, call 951-587-1536 or email tvsinfo@TemeculaValleySymphony.org
Dec. 16-20 – 5-8 p.m. Menifee Santa on Wheels will be making neighborhood visits around town. Reservations needed. $40 per 15-minute personalized family visit. Be on the lookout. Contact www.cityofmenifee.us/register Call 951-723-3880 for more informational
ONGOING – Saturdays, 8 a.m. to noon. The Sun City Farmers Market meets every Saturday at the Sun City Civic Association at 26850 Sun City Blvd., in Sun City with local vendors and crafts.
ONGOING – Riverside Transportation Commission is offering Park and Ride lots to connect with carpools, vanpools and transit systems in Beaumont at 600 E. Sixth Street; in San Jacinto at 501 S. San Jacinto Avenue and in Temecula at Grace Presbyterian Church, 31143 Nicolas Road, open from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. but not on weekends.
ONGOING – Line dancing classes are held on Wednesdays from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at Lake Elsinore/Wildomar Elks Lodge, 33700 Mission Trail, in Wildomar across from the Animal Friends of the Valleys. Classes have a DJ with learning levels beginning to intermediate. Have fun and exercise at the same time at $5 per lesson. Contact Joyce Hohenadl at 951-674-2159.
ONGOING – Sun City Civic Association Monthly Square Dance sessions are held Sundays from 1:30-5 p.m. at 26850 Sun City Boulevard.
ONGOING – If you know a homebound older adult, resources in Menifee are available, including grab-and-go, cooked and frozen food for pickup. Courtesy pantry items and meals delivered with no contact. Three days of emergency food can be delivered immediately or restaurant meal delivery for
those who don’t qualify for food assistance programs. Call the California Department on Aging at 800-510-2020 for help.
ONGOING – Saturdays and Sundays only, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The Temecula Winchester Swap Meet continues 33280 Newport Road in Winchester. The small local swap meet is only 50 cents for entry, and anyone under age 10 is free admission. No dogs allowed.
ONGOING – 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Every Sunday, the 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 on 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 farmer’s markets will be restricted to agriculture products only. Follow the Old Town Temecula Farmers Market on Facebook to stay updated. No pets allowed.
WORKSHOPS, MEETINGS, NOTICES
Dec. 5 – Lake Menifee Women’s Club Menifee Winter Teen Awards. Nominations now open for All Star Athlete, Outstanding Citizen, and Inspiring Academic teen. For more information and nominations contact www.cityofmenifee.us/ YLM or 951-679-8092. Awards presented at a Menifee City Council meeting.
Dec. 5 – 2-6 p.m. The Temecula Holiday Sunset Market at 41902 Main St., Temecula Old Town. The Market features a collection of handcrafted and artisan vendors selling holiday-themed items, as well as delicious food and drinks. For more information, visit TemeculaSunsetMarket.com.
ONGOING – 10 a.m. The Temecula Valley Republican Women’s Club meets each month at the Wilson Creek Winery, 33960 Rancho California Road, Temecula. Memberships are now open. For questions, please contact Membership Chair Janine Plano at info@ tvrwomen.org
ONGOING – Temecula Valley Genealogical Society hosts the Family History Research Assistance Program for those interested in learning more about their family roots. The society offers free research assistance through this volunteer program. Appointments are available in person or via Zoom. Contact the TVGS Family Research Coordinator at tvgs. research.assist@gmail.com
ONGOING – Temecula’s Path of Honor at the Temecula Duck Pond, 28250 Ynez Road. A program to give a place to remember and honor veterans from the U.S. Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard and the World War II Merchant Marines with a permanent paver. Pavers cost $185. Orders may be placed year-round and are consolidated, engraved and placed on the path annually each November. For more information, visit http://TemeculaCA.gov/ Veterans or contact the Temecula Community Services Department at 951-694-6480. ONGOING – Want to help deployed American troops remotely? Help shop for the most needed items without leaving home as an easy way to help support deployed men and women by purchasing items remotely and having them delivered to MilVet at designated drop-off locations for packing. All items on the list are special requests from deployed military men and women. MilVet is a nonprofit organization that holds monthly
packaging events at different community locations in the area. For drop-off locations and packaging locations, visit www.milvet.org/ military-care-packages.
ONGOING – Assistance League of Temecula Valley hosts a meeting for its member volunteers and guests every first Tuesday of the month (dark in July) at their facility at 28720 Via Montezuma, Temecula at 9:30 a.m. social and 10 a.m. meeting. The meeting room is adjacent to the thrift shop. Anyone interested in exploring volunteering or learning more about the organization is welcome to attend. Email altemecula@ yahoo.com for more information.
ONGOING – Multiple Sclerosis Support Group meets the third Monday of each month at the Mary Phillips Senior Center, 41845 Sixth Street, in Temecula from 10 a.m. to noon. For more information, email gaugustin206@gmail. com or join the meeting.
ONGOING – Sons of Norway/ Scandinavia meets at noon the first Saturday of every month, September to June, at the Heritage Mobile Park Clubhouse, 31130 S. General Kearny Road, in Temecula.
ONGOING – Menifee Community Services offers online driver’s education courses for a fee of $21.95. The course includes animated driving scenarios, instructional videos, sample tests, a licensed instructor available to answer questions, DMV-approved certificate of completion with all lectures and exams completed from home. Designed for students and does not include behind-thewheel instruction or a alifornia driver’s permit. Contact 951-7233880 or visit the city of Menifee to register at www.cityof menifee.us
ONGOING – 10-11:30 a.m. Michelle’s Place Cancer Resource Center and The Elizabeth Hospice host a virtual support meeting for caregivers every second and fourth week of the month via Zoom. Get helpful tips and learn from others who are also dealing with similar challenges. For more information and to register, contact The Elizabeth Hospice Grief Support Services at 833-349-2054.
ONGOING – Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous, a free 12step recovery program for anyone suffering from food obsession, overeating, undereating or bulimia, has meetings throughout the U.S. and the world. Contact 781932-6300, or for local meetings, call 925-321-0170 or visit www. foodaddicts.org.
ONGOING – The Murrieta Garden Club meets each month at the Murrieta Community Center, 41810 Juniper St. Anyone who likes to garden or is interested in plants is welcome. Membership is $10 per year. Find more information about the monthly event or project on Facebook.
ONGOING – Temecula Valley Rose Society meets each month. For more information and new meeting dates and places, visit www.temeculavalleyrosesociety. org
ONGOING – Menifee Toastmasters meets every Thursday at noon for one hour at a designated place to have fun, enhance speaking capabilities, gain self-confidence and improve social skills. For new dates, call 760-807-1323 or visit www.MenifeeToastmasters.org for more information. ONGOING – Homeless veterans can receive free help by dialing 877-424-3838 for 24/7 access to the VA’s services for homeless, at-risk veterans. Chat is confidential for veterans and friends. Visit www.va.gov/homeless.
ONGOING – The Dorland Scribblers meet the second Sunday of each month from 1-3 p.m. at 36701 Highway 79 South, Temecula. We welcome fiction, non-fiction, poets, memoir and screenwriters. We host writingcraft discussions; attendees may read up to a five-minute excerpt from their work for feedback/ critique. RSVP at www.dorlandartscolony.com/sunday-scribblers. html.
ENTERTAINMENT
JDS Creative Academy celebrates a year of creativity, milestones, and community impact in 2024
Karlee Skipper Special to Valley News
2024 has been a year of milestones and the fostering of creativity for JDS Creative Academy (JDSCA). Through its Title-17 job training program, extracurricular classes, and engaging community events, the organization has solidified its role as a leading force in the Inland Empire’s creative scene. The year kicked off with a major rebranding of the nonprofit’s magazine-style news and information television show. The title and messaging shifted from Spirit of Innovation: News & Information to its reimagined name, Spirit of Innovation: Arts Across America, reflecting JDSCA’s mission to spread the Arts Across America while continuing to share important impactful stories from within Riverside County. The show also launched a new segment, The Community Roundtable, where local business owners and nonprofit leaders gather to discuss key issues affecting the community and beyond. The program’s ratings have surged, and it now reaches an even wider audience, beyond its local broadcast reach, social media, show website, and YouTube. It is now streamed across Binge Network’s 150 platforms,
Tubi TV, and apps like Amazon Fire and Roku.
In April, JDSCA hosted the eighth annual DigiFest Temecula festival, a multimedia event that brings the world of digital arts and Hollywood to the region, drawing in visitors from across the country. DigiFest 2025 is already underway, with early submissions open now through January 31, 2025. Mark your calendars for the ninth annual three-day event on April 25, 26, and 27, 2025!
JDSCA’s spring showcase highlighted the semester’s creative talent! The weekend transported the audience to “Over the Rainbow” with its musical theater production of The Wizard of Oz, while the filmmaking class showcased their student-created films on the big screen. The nonprofit also held its annual two-week script-to-stage summer camp, allowing participants to explore every aspect of theater production, from scriptwriting and set building to creating a spectacular original production and performance.
In August, JDSCA commemorated a major milestone—its 10th anniversary. Over 200 guests joined the nonprofit to celebrate the organization’s impact over the past decade. The studio’s musical theater and acting students per-
formed emotional skits with an amusing medley that showcased JDSCA’s 10 years of creativity.
Soon after, the fall creative classes began, kicking off the start of a new semester of scriptwriting, filmmaking, and musical theater. The backstage production class not only contributed to sets, props, and costumes for The Addams Family: School Edition, but they also teamed up with the Design / Build / HAUNT class to create the annual Haunted Studio Fundraiser, transforming JDS Studio into a haunted library that brought spooky stories to life.
In addition to serving its students, JDSCA continues to make a positive impact in the community, donating over $10,000 annually to scholarship and local nonprofits, as well as ensuring the arts remain accessible to all at JDS Creative Academy. You can support their mission by attending
performances, participating in or attending DigiFest 2025, tuning into Spirit of Innovation: Arts Across America, and engaging with the organization on social media. You can also collaborate and donate to help support their mission, which includes providing creative career opportunities to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, resulting in a more inclusive workforce.
As 2024 comes to a close, JDSCA is excited for the future. With plans to move the Arts Across America already in place for 2025, the nonprofit is gearing up for another incredible year of growth, creative expression, and community impact.
About JDS Creative Academy JDS Creative Academy is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization based in Temecula, California, and hosts DigiFest Temecula. The organization is dedicated to inspir-
ing, educating, and enhancing achievement in video production and workforce development. With a focus on visual, performing, and digital arts, JDS Creative Academy offers programs for youth, teens, adults, and mainstream and special needs populations to foster an inclusive environment. For more information, visit www.jdscreativeacademy.org or call JDS Studio at 951-296-6715.
Diane Strand and Paul Rangel at DigiFest. Valley News/Courtesy photo
Diane Strand co-founder of the JDS Creative Academy in Temecula, cuts the ribbon in front of their expanded facility at 28069 Diaz Road, Suites D.E. and F, during the nonprofits’ 10th Birthday, Members of the Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce helped host the event. Valley News/Tony Ault photo
A student takes part in a training program at JDS. Valley News/Courtesy photo
Dorland Mountain Arts Colony is a noted cultural arts organization
Tony Ault Staff Writer
Many Temecula and Southwest Riverside County residents are unaware that tucked into the foothills above State Route 79 is Dorland Mountain Arts Colony, a safe haven and creative bastion for noted artists, writers, musicians, photographers, and screenwriters from around the world.
The arts colony hosts those talented people for weeks at a time, allowing them to refresh their creative talents. They are sometimes able to preview them during public events with fellow artists and look forward to future success.
Dorland’s mission statement is, “To provide a unique working setting for visual artists, writers and musicians inspiring creativity in a secluded and protective natural setting.”
It is nestled under California Oak trees, lily ponds, and trails with a beautiful outlook over Temecula’s Wine Country to the west and mountains to the east.
For resident artists, Dorland has five fully equipped individual cottages offered for weeks at a time at reasonable prices. In addition to the cottages on the 300-acre reserve, there is a community room where artwork is often shown and other amenities such as benches under the trees and gazebos. Every Wednesday, the associate artists enjoy Coffee on the Deck, where the public is invited to meet and talk with the artists and residents.
Dorland President Curtis Horton says, “Dorland exists to connect its seekers with these concentric ripples of time, to free your imagination from the careworn every day, to ride the waves of nature’s
creation and thereby discover your own.”
Dorland creative talents Who are some of the artists who have taken up residence in the cottages and a little of their success and hopes for the future?
Frank Horvat who presents the soundscape, “Trees. Listen.” that was released Oct. 4. He says it’s “a new way of listening to the planet.” He uses the tones of the Celtic lever harp fused with a meticulously crafted electronic atmosphere. He focuses on acquired brain injuries conveying hope and healing. His Anatomy of the Recovering Brain dropped Nov. 15.
Vicky DeLong , a fiber artist who spent three times in residency at Dorland was inspired to create nine fiber arts sculptures that were juried into the Flora and Fauna Exhibit at the Techne Art Center in Oceanside. She awaits the result of other pieces she created at Dorland in the near future.
Danny Getzoff, has published his award-winning story of the “Fight” chapter of the upcoming 42-story Anthology. Currently, he is going to the Arteles Creative Center in Haukijärvi, Finland for a month-long residency program.
Kathleen Edwards illustrated the graphic book, “My Book of the Dead-memoir” which is now available at Bookbaby and Amazon. She continues to paint and was included in the San Francisco de Young Open Exhibit in 2020 and 2023.
Hao Huang, who at Dorland in March 2025 will be composing a Fantasy for Violin and Piano “Un giorno nella vita di un villaggio della costa del Cilento,” and also writing a saga, “Farchi tourab — kinah for Peleset.”
Movie review: ‘Wicked’
It was in the spring of 2004 that I first saw Idina Menzel and Kristen Chenoweth perform the showstopping “Defying Gravity” from the Broadway blockbuster “Wicked” at the Tony Awards. Since that moment was over 20 years ago, it means that I have waited literal decades for a big-screen version of “Wicked.” I’ve more than satisfied my appetite for the stage version, having seen it five times, once with Menzel still in the cast (sadly never with Chenoweth). But I’ve always wanted the vast production to be available to the world, with added scale and visual spectacle to boot. Now the wait is finally over, and the result is… reasonably acceptable. The story takes place before, during, and after the well-known events of “The Wizard of Oz.” As this film is only the first part of a two-part saga, it mostly focuses on the “before,” though it opens in the “after.” Glinda (Ariana Grande), the “Good Witch of the North,”
Movie
Bob Garver Contributor
informs the citizens of Munchkinland that Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo), the “Wicked Witch of the West,” has been killed via melting. The townspeople are overjoyed that the local villain has been thwarted, but some want to know how she came to be so wicked in the first place. Glinda recalls that their paths crossed years ago, and the rest of the movie is a flashback.
Elphaba and Galinda (as she was then known) were students together at the prestigious Shiz University. Elphaba’s green skin made her an outcast even in her own family, and she was only allowed to attend so she could tend to her sister Nessarose (Marissa Bode), who used a wheelchair. Galinda was pretty and popular, but also spoiled and egotistical. Her (figurative) bubble was burst when, for the first time in her life, she wasn’t given preferential treatment over someone like Elphaba.
Goat-professor Dr. Dillamond (Peter Dinklage) couldn’t even pronounce the first vowel in her name, yet got along with Elphaba because she was kind to animals
review: ‘Moana 2’
2016’s “Moana” is probably my favorite animated Disney movie of the modern era. I have plenty of nice things to say about “Frozen,” “Zootopia,” “Encanto,” and several others, but “Moana,” with its timelessly-relatable main character, sharp physical comedy, and multiple memorable songs, puts it just a coir above the competition. When an evidently-rushed sequel was announced earlier this year, I became nervous. What if the new film was so disappointing that it affected my opinion of the original? Now that I’ve seen the film, I’m
Laila Freeman, a writer who
worked on her children’s novel at Dorland is now workshopping on it in an MFA program and receiving positive feedback. Her peers call excerpts they’ve read, “fresh” and “original.”
Mina Manchester, who spent a residency at Dorland, is now an Editorial Assistant at Delphinium Books, based in Los Angeles.
Pamela K. Johnson. A Dorland resident received an O’Brien Fellowship In Public Service Journalism from Marquette University.
Edan Lepucki wrote the short story “My Twin” which was published in the Atlantic Monthly.
Desiree Zamorano. The writer wrote “Dispossessed,” published by Running Wild Press. A historical fiction tracing the life of Manuel, a boy who is separated from his parents during the mass expulsion of Mexican Americans and Mexican nationals in Los Angeles during the 1930s.
The Dorland founders
These recent talented writers and artists who have spent time at Dorland are a tribute to the co-founders of the Dorland Arts
Colony Ellen Bronson Babcock Dorland and Barabra Curtiss Horton.
Ellen Bronson Babcock Dorland , 1886-1986, was a famed pianist. For 50 of her 98 years, from 1933 to 1983, Ellen’s life centered on Rancho Ticañu, the future Dorland Mountain Arts, and its life also centered around her, her students, her international circle of friends and admiring colleagues in music and other fields who came for the stunning beauty of her mind and of the surroundings; for the deep explorations of music, literature, other intellectual
Frank Horvat was a 2024 resident of Dorland Mountain Arts Colony and recently released Anatomy of the
with Kathryn Ladano.
pursuits and nature. But also her wit and brusque charm often calling her students “inmates,” but galvanizing their energy. Calling her a piano teacher was like calling Michelangelo a painter. Equally at home in the glittering capitals of Europe or roughing it in the wild, Ellen made her debut as a concert pianist at age 17 with the Berlin Philharmonic, with Arthur Nikisch conducting, in 1905. Barbara Curtis Horton was an early environmentalist and ballet teacher. She saved the landscape from development by making it possible for Ellen and Robert Dorland to transfer Rancho Ticañu to The Nature Conservancy as a nature preserve. Then, by mobilizing and leading a small army of volunteers and donors, she realized Ellen’s dream of continuing her contribution to creative life after her time at Dorland Mountain Arts. Like Ellen, Barbara was a teacher of such depth, breadth, and passion, that she changed her students’ lives far beyond the subject at hand. Her love of nature and all things great and small led her to a second career as a pioneering environmental activist in the 1960s.
A Phi Beta Kappa graduate in History at Stanford (’39), she shared Ellen’s rich and varied life of the mind. A published author (“Tiger Bridge”), she was also a
at a time when the land of Oz was turning against them. Magic professor Madame Morrible (Michelle Yeoh) also preferred Elphaba because she had natural telekinetic abilities while Galinda didn’t have an ounce of magic in her body. Even studly prince Fiyero (Jonathan Bailey) found Elphaba more intriguing precisely because she didn’t fall for his “brainless badboy” routine. The girls started off loathing each other, but became friends after Galinda (with selfish ulterior motives) got Nessarose a date with nerdy munchkin Boq (Ethan Slater). Eventually, word of Elphaba’s magical prowess reached the Emerald City, earning her an audience with the all-powerful Wizard of Oz (Jeff Goldblum). Glinda tagged along to meet the mysterious Wizard, and together the pair discovered that his power was more about charisma than magic, though the magic Elphaba could do was real. For example, she could give wings to the Wizard’s monkey guards so they could fly. She could even give the power of
happy to report that my enjoyment of the original is not tarnished by this underwhelming sequel. The film takes place three years after the original, with Moana (Auli’i Cravalho) now her island’s premier wayfinder, or boat navigator. The community is thriving, and she’s gradually finding clues that will hopefully lead her to discover more islands with communities that can be joined. But she receives a vision that if she doesn’t find far-off island Motufetu very soon, everything she holds dear will be lost. She throws together a mission with a ragtag crew that includes overeager builder Loto (Rose Matafeo), grumpy farmer
Kele (David Fane), oafish historian Moni (Hualālai Chung), pet pig Pua, and chicken Heihei, and sets off on an adventure with more self-doubt than she’s ever had in her life. Along the way, she meets up with an old enemy: the tribe of sentient coconuts known as Kakamora. The two sides battle until they discover that they both need somebody to find Motufetu, at which point one of the Kakamora joins the quest as an enforcer. Not long after, the crew find themselves swallowed by a giant clam, which is home base for new villain Matangi (Awhimai Fraser), who has abducted Moana’s former
flight to nonliving things, like a broom. After a falling-out with The Wizard, Elphaba became the most feared person in all of Oz, but was it justified?
“Wicked” certainly succeeds in delivering the epic proportions that I demand, including an epic 160-minute runtime that I didn’t necessarily demand. That’s a mere five minutes short of the length of the Broadway show, and this movie only covers Act 1. Sometimes the extra length is good, it means that the movie can throw in bonus content like a stage show in the Emerald City that had the audience at my screening squealing with delight. Other times it just makes the movie plodding or interferes with the flow of key moments. I hate to say it, but “Defying Gravity” is thrown off because the movie wants to do more visually than the song’s traditional runtime will allow, so some extra beats have been added that I don’t think serve it well. This movie has all the magic of the stage version and more, I just don’t think I care much for the “more.”
ally, the demigod Maui (Dwayne Johnson). It turns out that Matangi needs Moana to find Motufetu as well, though her motivations probably aren’t as pure as the Kakumora just wanting to find their way home. With Maui now officially on the crew, it’s a race to reach Motufetu before unhappy god Nalo (Tofiga Fepulea’i) can stop them with his storm-conjuring powers. Slowly but surely, the downgrades from the first movie come to light. New songwriters Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear try valiantly to give Moana an anthem
B-5
newspaper columnist (“Of Living Things”). And she knew how to throw a great party, which sometimes were themed with sets she designed.
Today, Janice Cipriani-Willis is the executive director of Dorland with a board of directors to direct its mission as a nonprofit 501(c) (3) organization that was founded in 1979. It is considered one of the top cultural organizations in Southern California. In addition to the cottages, it has two baby grand pianos, a Kimball and a Steinway for composers and musicians to use. It is part of the Dorland Preserve, a 300-acre wilderness area acquired by the Nature Conservancy and has many protected plants and other natural fauna. It has a shared kitchen and internet is available. Costs to artists range from between $300 and $500 per week and reservations must be made and the resident selection is made by committee. However, Dorland does conduct classes in the arts for aspiring artists in the community. For availability and rates see www.dorlandartscolony.org for more information or call 951302-3837. Donations are always welcome. The physical address is 3670 Highway 79 South and the mailing address is P.O. Box 6, Temecula, CA 92592.
Grade: B
“Wicked” is rated PG for some scary action, thematic material and brief suggestive material. Its running time is 160 minutes. Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@ nyu.edu.
Composer
Recovering Brain
2024 Dorland Mountain Arts Colony resident Danny Getzoff, writer.
2024 Dorland Mountain Arts Colony resident Vicky DeLong, sculptor.
2024 Dorland Mountain Arts Colony resident Mina Machester, writer and editor.
Valley News/Courtesy photos
Bob Garver Contributor
Foraging for wild mushrooms can lead to the ER, warns California Poison Control System
CALIFORNIA - Mushroom foraging is a popular activity enjoyed by thousands of people. However, it can prove as dangerous as it is fun, warns California Poison Control System (CPCS). Serious illness and even death can happen if people don’t make sure the mushrooms are not poisonous before eating them.
The most serious illnesses and deaths have been linked to mushrooms that cause liver damage, including the Amanita phalloides or “death cap” mushrooms. These, along with the “destroying angel” mushroom or Amanita ocreata are found abundantly throughout California.
A report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), estimates that more than 1,300 people were treated in Emergency Departments for accidentally eating a poisonous mushroom. The report also found that serious adverse outcomes occurred in nearly 9% of the patients who sought care for eating poisonous mushrooms. Serious adverse outcomes can range from irregular heartbeat, kidney or liver failure, and seizures.
“There is always a risk in eating
wild mushrooms that you, friends or family members gathered,” says Dr. Rais Vohra, Medical Director for the Fresno/Madera Division of CPCS. “People often believe it’s easy to identify poisonous wild mushrooms. But, in fact, it’s very easy to mistake a poisonous mushroom for one that’s edible. Also, some people use digital tools to identify the mushroom, but these don’t always correctly identify the mushroom. So, the bottom line is: you should never consume any wild mushrooms unless an expert confirms they are safe to eat.”
Mushroom poisoning symptoms
Symptoms typically develop six to 12 hours after eating. Serious symptoms do not always occur immediately after eating and can sometimes surface days or weeks later. Depending on the amount consumed, symptoms of mushroom poisoning range from mild to serious.
Abdominal pain
Cramping Diarrhea Nausea • Vomiting
• Organ failure, including liver damage
Death due to eating wild mushrooms is uncommon, but does occur
“Contrary to a common belief that poisonous mushrooms are brightly colored, they typically look just like mushrooms that are safe to eat,” adds Dr. Vohra. “Also, cooking mushrooms does not remove or inactivate toxins. The safest way to ensure that mushrooms are harmless to eat is to purchase cultivated ones from a reputable food market.”
Dr. Rais Vohra with CPCS is available for phone and zoom interviews. If you would like to book an interview, call 310-313-3444 or text 818-613-1951 Elaine Murphy, Tellem Grody PR, elaine@tellemgrodypr.com
About CPCS Call Poison Control at 1-800222-1222 (number is the same in all states) for questions about poison encounters. Trained pharmacists, nurses and other providers are available to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The service is free, confidential and interpreters are available. Get weekly tips about safety by texting TIPS to 20121 for English or texting PUNTOS to 20121 for Spanish.
wild mushrooms. Valley News/calpoison.org photo
Follow CPCS on Facebook and on Twitter @poisoninfo. CPCS is part of the University of California San Francisco School of Pharmacy and is responsible to the California Emergency Medical Services Authority.
Winter programs announced at the Ronald H. Roberts Temecula Public Library
TEMECULA – The Ronald H. Roberts Temecula Public Library, 30600 Pauba Road, will be offering some cozy crafts for this winter season Mason Jar Snow Globes
Thursday, Dec. 12, 4 to 5:30 p.m.
Teens can get into the winter groove and create their own snow globes, “snow” and all! This pro-
as powerful as “How Far I’ll Go,” but “Beyond” falls just a bit short. “Get Lost” from Matangi isn’t quite as memorable a villain song as “Shiny.” And as far as Maui goes, “Can I Get A Chee Hoo?” is a fall off a cliff from “You’re Welcome” that matches Johnson’s own falling star power. His tired, somehow-mugging-for-the-camera-even-in-animation schtick is probably the worst thing about this movie, other than an inexplicable overreliance on gags that involve creatures excreting from various orifices.
The movie still gets a recommendation from me. Cravalho is great as always, the new characters are compelling enough, the jokes hit at an acceptable ratio, and there’s an overall agreeable tone
gram is for grades 7 to 12 and is limited to 25 participants. Registration is already open. Noteworthy Puppets: Holiday Hijinks
Wednesday, Dec. 18, 3:30 p.m. Join us for a holiday hijinks adventure when Santa ends up in Halloweentown at this festive family program geared for all ages. Winter Terrariums
for an animated adventure. There’s nothing here that makes me want to turn against the “Moana” brand, which is good because we’re going to be getting a lot more of it in the future. Supposedly this movie was supposed to be the first few installments of a television miniseries, and harsher critics will say that it should have been stuck on television. I don’t agree with that assessment, I think theaters are lucky to have “Moana 2,” even if it’s a step down from the original. But Moana’s journey is clearly far from over, and however it continues, I hope it doesn’t lose any more magic than it already has.
Grade: B“Moana 2” is rated PG for action/peril. Its running time is 100 minutes. Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@ nyu.edu.
Thursday, Dec. 19, 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Adults will also be able to make their own winter-themed masterpieces using mason jars and mini decorations to create a scenic winter wonderland. This program is for ages 18+ and will be limited to 20 people. Registration began Dec. 5. Programs are sponsored by the
Friends of the Temecula Libraries and registration begins two weeks prior to scheduled program/event dates. Please register at the library reception desk or by calling 951693-8900.
In addition to these special programs, The Ronald H. Roberts Temecula Public Library offers many valuable resources to the community. Please visit the Library to access computers, a large selection of books, a children’s library with many special programs offered weekly, and more. For a full list of programs and offerings at the Ronald H. Roberts Temecula Public Library, please visit TemeculaCA.gov/Library and follow @TemeculaLibrary on social media for updates.
Death cap, Amanita phalloides, is a deadly mushroom that grows throughout California during the rainy months from fall to early winter. Never pick or eat
MOANA from page B-4
Rose Care FUNdamentals for December 2024
Frank Brines Master Rosarian (ARS)
Gardeners have increasingly been experiencing diseases and critters never before seen in our region. Many are caused by invasive pests hitching rides on planes and ships from faraway regions, often with disastrous results. The changing weather patterns are also contributing to this problem.
The Asian Chilli thrip was fostered by unseasonably high Fall temperatures – a consequence of our changing climate. This was a problem in my garden which I was only able to minimally control due to an injury.
The Asian Chilli Thrips is spreading rapidly in the Southwest and is becoming a global threat. It is even smaller than the western thrips with which we’re familiar –so small that it cannot be seen with the naked eye. It works in similar ways, only more devastating and more difficult to control. It doesn’t seem to have any preferences except new growth of almost any plant and blossom. Its damage resembles the effects of Roundup overspray or rose virus: severely stunted and very narrow leaves, stems, and buds. This pest is extremely prolific, especially during hot temperatures in July through October, and is particularly resistant to conventional control methods. Gardeners I’ve spoken with use products containing Spinosad (such as Conserve) to gain some control. Infestations have been
sporadic with severe to mild being reported. Mostly.
If you’re in this situation, the only practical road to control is to prune out the affected parts and consign them to the green waste bin. Then immediately apply a chemical insecticide spray and begin a spraying program as directions indicate or, every 7-10 days until control is reached, then at two weeks intervals. Always carefully follow the directions on the container.
Roses were still actively growing and blooming in many Temecula Valley gardens during the Thanksgiving holiday, as most areas haven’t had low temperatures near frost which, on average, oc-
curs in mid-November. Normally, lower nighttime temperatures cool the soil and reset the roses’ biological clock to slow down and go into a kind of dormancy. Roses need a four- to six-week dormant period during the winter months to allow them to undergo natural hormonal changes that prepare them for the next growing season, including forming buds at the base of the plant to produce new canes. At this point, aside from pruning away dead or diseased branches, I encourage you to NOT deadhead or prune until late January to early February.
Be sure to monitor your plants when daytime temperatures are warm: They still need to be kept
hydrated. Also, do NOT fertilize until after your major pruning in January or February—I’ll provide thorough information on all that early next year. Watch for the inperson pruning demonstrations announcements in the area.
Speaking of fertilizer, sometimes we provide the basics – the so-called “macronutrients” (Nitrogen, Phosphorous, and Potassium, or “NPK”) and neglect the minerals that are needed in much smaller amounts, the “micronutrients” such as Sulfur, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Iron, Manganese, Zinc, Copper, Boron, and others. A deficiency of micronutrients can retard plant growth no matter how much of the macronutrients you provide. When this happens, the missing nutrients are called “limiting factors.” If you feel that some parts of your garden are not flourishing despite providing the basics, it might be a great time to invest in a soil test. We don’t endorse specific products in this column, but if you do a web search for “soil test kits” you may find a product that’s right for you. Be careful: You want a kit that will test for micronutrients (see above), not simply macronutrients. There is still time to order that new rose you have been dreaming about. Garden stores may still be adding to their list of orders or go to your favorite online nursery and make your order. There are many fine new roses that you simply must have. Many are more disease-resistant than in the past.
Most nurseries or wholesalers no longer print catalogs, so for a list of current roses available from each you will have to go online. You can view the varieties that each will be stocking by going to their website. A few new varieties I find of interest are: At Last (floribunda, good apricot color, fragrance, disease-resistant); Bordeaux (floribunda/wine red, large blooms, heat tolerant, disease resistant); Easy Spirit (floribunda/White, Hybrid T form, fragrance, hybridizer Tom Carruth, disease resistant, lasting form); Frida Kahlo (floribunda/ Scarlet Red striped gold, small clusters, mild fragrance, disease resistant, compact, hybridizers Christian Bedard & Tom Carruth); Gaye Hammond S (Bright Yellow with touches of orange, slight fragrance, disease resistant, bloom making machine); Parade Day (Grandiflora/Fuchsia Pink Striped White, strong fragrance, hybridizer Christian Bedard, holds color); Flowerland (Shrubby, Pink, low (1.5’) growing habit, 60—65 petals, fragrant; it would be great for small spaces or en masse); Golden Iceberg (mild spicy fragrance). For more ideas, visit TVRS’ Rose Haven garden at 30592 Jedediah Smith Rd., Temecula, as well as our web site at TemeculaValleyRoseSociety.org/index.shtml Enjoy the holidays of your choice as best you can—and spread the joy of roses!
LAKE ELSINORE —The Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District (EVMWD) has taken a significant step forward in securing the region’s water future by completing the purchase of an additional 6 cubic feet per second (CFS) of permanent capacity in the Mills Gravity Line, a vital water conveyance pipeline. This purchase brings EVMWD’s total ownership to 21 CFS, ensuring reliable water delivery to its service area as it continues to grow.
The Mills Gravity Line, owned and operated by Western Municipal Water District (Western Water), is a 14-mile pipeline that delivers imported water from Northern California to portions of Riverside County. This infrastructure plays a critical role in supporting the water needs of the region.
Answers for puzzle on page B-2
“This agreement reflects EVMWD’s commitment to securing the water supply infrastructure necessary to support our growing communities,” Chance Edmonson, EVMWD board president, said. “With our service area currently 35% built out, this investment ensures that we can meet future demands while maintaining the reliability and affordability our customers deserve.”
The Mills Gravity Line partnership is the result of a decade of collaborative efforts, driven by the foresight and passion of leaders from both agencies. Former Western Water board member Don Galleano, who died in June 2021, and current EVMWD board member Andy Morris were instrumental in laying the groundwork for this agreement.
Strategic benefits for EVMWD customers Reliability for a growing region: The added capacity is needed to support the anticipated 70% growth in water demands over the next 25 years. Each cubic foot per second (CFS) of water equates to approximately 724 acre-feet per year, or about 650,000 gallons per day—enough to supply the water needs of nearly 1,500 households annually.
Substantial cost savings: Locking in the 2019 purchase price saved approximately $5 million compared to current market rates. Additionally, the purchase eliminates annual leasing charges of up to $2 million.
Favorable financing: EVMWD secured below-market financing from Western Water with a 2.5%
interest rate, saving approximately $500,000 in interest costs over the life of the loan.
“The Mills Gravity Line is a critical lifeline for delivering water to our customers,” said Andy Morris, board director for Division 5 of EVMWD. “This expansion of our service rights strengthens our ability to serve the region well into the future and ensures we remain ahead of the curve as our communities continue to grow.”
Collaborative partnership with Western Water EVMWD’s partnership with Western Water is a model of effective collaboration between water agencies. The two agencies have worked together for many years, leveraging shared resources and expertise to ensure cost-effective and reliable water solutions.
“We are grateful to Western Water’s team for their professionalism and shared commitment to supporting the needs of our region,” General Manager, Greg Thomas said. “This collaboration underscores the importance of working together to solve complex challenges and create long-term benefits for our communities.”
EVMWD remains focused on strategic investments in infrastructure and partnerships that ensure water reliability and affordability for its customers. By expanding its capacity in the Mills Gravity Line, EVMWD demonstrates its dedication to innovative, forwardthinking solutions that meet both current and future water demands. For more information about EVMWD projects and services, visit EVMWD.com.
MURRIETA - As people deck the halls this holiday season, it is important to be fire-smart. A small fire that spreads to a Christmas tree can grow large very quickly. By following these safety tips, everyone can ensure a fire-safe holiday. When picking a Christmas tree, choose one with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.
Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 2 inches from the base of the truck. Make sure the tree is at least 3 feet away from any heat source like fireplaces,
A magnified Asian Chilli Thrip Valley News/iNaturalist.org photo
Rancho Water’s Danielle Coats awarded for outstanding contributions to water policy and community partnerships
ebrates Danielle’s more than two decades of leadership in public affairs, advancing initiatives ranging from water-saving programs to statewide campaigns on water affordability.
Danielle has served as Rancho Water’s Director of Government and Public Affairs since June 2022. In this pivotal role, she champions strategic initiatives that shape public policy and drive community engagement in responsible water management practices. Prior to her tenure at Rancho Water, Danielle held the role of Senior Policy and Government Affairs Manager at Eastern Municipal Water District,
where her expertise and passion for water advocacy played an essential role in advancing legislation focused on accessibility, conservation, affordability, and governance. Her influence has extended across nearly 20 years in representing Western Riverside County in Sacramento, where she has served on several key legislative committees focused on water, wastewater, recycled water, and land use policy.
In addition to her statewide impact, Danielle is deeply committed to local community engagement. She is an active participant on various boards and commissions,
from page B-1
performance as the Nutcracker Prince earned thunderous applause. Waisman has been dancing since he was a child, but stated he did not take it seriously until he was 16 years old. He fell in love with ballet and has since made it his passion, with his primary teacher being his mother, Svetlana Minardi.
The Sugarplum Fairy was gracefully danced by accomplished ballerina Laura Theisen, who began dancing at the age of 4, in Omaha, Nebraska. In addition to performing with various ballet companies across the country, she earned a BA in dance pedagogy and a minor in biology. She moved to California in 2020 to join the California Ballet and has also worked with Ballet Collective San Diego Laura joined Golden State Ballet for their 20212022 inaugural season as a corps de ballet member.
The Snow Queen, danced by Malia Lewis, left the audience mesmerized with her ethereal movements as well. The cast was so vast it would be impossible to
including the Southwest California Legislative Council and the Murrieta/Wildomar Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, where her advocacy for regional issues continues to strengthen water policy and governance.
“Receiving the Kathy Cole Award is an incredible honor, and I am truly humbled to be recognized in this way. Kathy was a remarkable leader, and I am grateful to carry forward her legacy of integrity and collaboration in the water industry,” remarked Danielle. “I am passionate about building resilient water policies and partnerships that benefit our communities and future generations, and I look forward to continuing this important work.”
“Danielle’s leadership and dedication to our communities make her an exemplary recipient of the Kathy Cole Award,” said Jason Martin, Rancho Water’s General Manager. “Her work has had a profound impact on advancing water policy and community resilience not only in our District, but throughout California, and we are immensely proud of her achievements.”
Rancho Water congratulates Danielle Coats on this well-deserved honor and looks forward to her continued contributions to water policy, public engagement, and community advocacy.
Submitted by Rancho California Water District.
give each dancer their due recognition but suffice it to say, the whole production was a testament to the dedication and passion of the teachers, dancers, and Founder Svetlana Minardi, who originally hails from Ukraine.
The production’s artistry extended beyond the dancers. The set design featured a grand Victorian parlor, a mystical Land of Snow, and a whimsical Kingdom of Sweets. The Nutcracker is a timeless experience that brings the community together through art and tradition. All the dancers were amazing, from the young 6-year-olds, like Tatum Schuler, to the more mature adults who did not disappoint with their obvious passion for dance and performance.
As the dancers took their final bows to a standing ovation, the Old Town Temecula Community Theater once again reminded attendees of its place as a cherished venue for the arts. For three unforgettable evenings, The Nutcracker proved that the spirit of the season shines brightest through creativity and community.
Southwest Riverside communities through philanthropic programs developed and administered by our members.
28720 Via Montezuma Temecula, CA 92590 Thrift Shop Hours Wed & Fri 10am-4pm Thurs & Sat 1pm-4pm (951) 694-8018 assistanceleague.org/temecula-valley/
NUTCRACKER
Danielle Coats, Rancho Water Director of Government and Public Affairs. Valley News/RCWD photos
Director Brian Brady, Danielle Coats, Director Carol Lee GonzalesBrady, and General Manager Jason Martin at the SCWC Awards Dinner.
TEMECULA – The Rancho California Water District (Rancho Water) announces that Danielle Coats, Director of Government and Public Affairs, has been named the 2024 recipient of the Kathy Cole Award, a distinguished honor from the Southern California Water Coalition (SCWC) recognizing her exceptional dedication to water policy and community partnerships. This award cel -
Valley News/Julie Reeder photos
Valerie Lemos and David Huang danced as the Chinese leads with their dances behind them.
The entire cast took a bow for the crowd after the show. The founder and Artistic Director Svetlana Minardi is pictured on the front left side.
6-year-old Tatum Schuler smiles with her family after the show. Tatum performed as one of the mice.
Biden’s pardon:
A pattern of lies, broken promises and political calculations
Julie Reeder Publisher
I believe President Joe Biden’s decision to pardon his son, Hunter Biden, for federal crimes, is deeper and more sweeping than what has been reported. Why the pardon two months before he leaves office instead of his last day in office?
And, why pardon him for any possible crimes he may have committed between 2014 and 2024?
Remember when during the process of convicting him, the Justice Department tried to slip a plea deal for Hunter without scrutiny for any crimes that Hunter may have committed but it was found out and there was backlash?
This is more of the same but President Biden certainly has the right to do it. I just think it also shields President Biden from scrutiny as he was certainly involved in the nefarious activities of selling the Biden name and putting America second to the interests
of other entities, like Burisma in Ukraine and countries like China.
While they were pointing the finger at Trump for quid pro quo for one phone call that had nothing wrong with it, there was actual quid pro quo to the tune of millions of dollars being funneled through Hunter and Biden. “The big guy” was getting his cut.
Remember when Joe Biden, during a 2018 Council on Foreign Relations event, bragged and recounted how, as Vice President, he pressured the Ukrainian government in 2015 to fire Prosecutor General Viktor Shokin, who was allegedly investigating Burisma, of which Hunter sat on the board?
Biden said he told Ukrainian officials they would not receive a $1 billion U.S. loan guarantee unless Shokin was removed. Textbook quid pro quo.
It’s widely known that there is far more than what Hunter has presently been convicted of. The pardon had to come early because Hunter Biden’s sentencing was to take place this month in both California and Delaware.
While the Justice Department has conspired with state and federal prosecutors to keep Trump from running for office by bankrupting him, putting him in jail or just tarnishing his name, Biden wants to protect himself from the same.
In pardoning his son, President Biden shields himself from potential accusations related to crimes committed over the past 10 years, for which he is suspected to be involved. These accusations have come from foreign leaders,
investigators, and Hunter Biden’s former business partners, some of whom have testified under oath during Congressional hearings. Transcripts of conversations have also been condemning.
It obviously raises questions about his integrity but what would you expect from someone who has lied throughout his presidency?
This move represents a glaring 180-degree turn from his repeated vows that he would never intervene in his son’s legal matters, and it casts a shadow over his credibility as a leader. But this is just the latest in a string of contradictions and reversals by a president who has made a habit of saying one thing and doing another.
As recently as 2020, he pledged to uphold the rule of law without interference. “I will not pardon my son,” he insisted repeatedly, fi rmly distancing himself from any notion of using presidential power to shield Hunter from prosecution. Biden’s pardon decision came without warning.
Critics argue that Biden’s decision was not based on a genuine belief in justice or fairness but on a calculated political maneuver to protect his family, including himself. Biden’s reasoning – that the charges against Hunter were politically motivated (something he knows about) – is hardly convincing. The president’s own statements about his son’s actions, which were once framed as mistakes and part of a broader struggle with addiction, now seem more like an attempt to de-
Dual citizenship and anti-Americanism
Joe Naiman Special to Valley News
Years ago I was having a discussion with a political writer and the conversation included dual citizenship. Her thought was that those with dual citizenship could vote in the elections of both countries so dual citizenship was bad. My thought was that dual citizens could compete in the Olympics for either country, which would be good.
Now that one of my own descendants has dual citizenship an anti-American aspect, albeit a temporary one, of dual citizenship has occurred to me. My granddaughter could eventually compete in the Olympics and/or soccer’s Women’s World Cup for Spain, and should she compete against the United States I would be rooting for her rather than for my own country.
My son’s fiancee gave birth to a baby girl the Friday before Thanksgiving. Since Lola’s
It
mother is a Spanish citizen my granddaughter has both Spanish and American citizenship.
The first person to whom I mentioned Lola’s dual citizenship responded that I was being premature planning that she would compete in the Olympics for Spain. Lola will decide whether she wants to pursue athletics, and she’ll also need to be talented enough to make either country’s national team, but the opportunity to be on Spain’s national team in sports where the Spanish aren’t as competitive as the Americans could be an additional incentive.
Although I didn’t pressure my own children to play sports, Lola will eventually learn what Grandpa Joe does for a living and may become interested. Lola and her parents live in Kentucky, which has a strong basketball culture. My son competed in gymnastics during his middle school years so Lola might take interest in becoming a gymnast.
For years Americans have used
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flect from the serious corruption concerns surrounding Hunter’s business dealings. But Biden’s record of dishonesty and flip-flopping goes beyond this one controversial pardon. His administration has been marked by a series of misleading statements, from declaring inflation “transitory” to calling the Afghanistan withdrawal a success. His public statements often don’t match reality.
His insistence that the borders aren’t open while criminals and fentanyl cross by the millions, or for instance, promising to restore integrity to the presidency, yet his administration’s handling of Hunter’s legal issues and incessantly going after Trump contradicts that narrative. Biden’s failure to be transparent about his son’s business entanglements, combined with the recent pardon, further tarnishes his reputation.
What makes this case even more disheartening is the stark contrast between Biden’s past policies and his current actions. In the 1990s, Biden was a key architect of the tough-on-crime policies that led to the incarceration of countless individuals for drug and gun offenses similar to those his son is now being pardoned for. Many of those who were locked up under Biden’s crime laws had no political family to lean on. They served their sentences while Hunter Biden, despite his history of criminal behavior, was given a free pass.
The media, for its part, has been quick to excuse Biden’s actions, framing the pardon as a personal
dual citizenship to compete in the Olympics for another nation. To the best of my knowledge figure skater Diane DeLeeuw was the first of those to win an Olympic medal. She was born and raised in Southern California, but when she was born her mother had Dutch citizenship. She skated for The Netherlands in the 1976 Winter Olympics and won the silver medal with Dorothy Hamill taking the gold medal on behalf of the United States. It is likely that Diane DeLeeuw still could have made America’s 1976 Olympic team and still would have won a medal, but that’s hindsight and she took the better opportunity to compete in the Olympics in the first place by skating on behalf of The Netherlands.
If Lola takes up a sport and is good enough to make the Spanish national team it would be nice to see her in the Olympics and/or soccer’s Women’s World Cup. If she plays tennis she may have a better chance to make the American team
rather than the Spanish team, but in many sports Lola would likely have a greater chance of playing for Spain than for the United States.
Some of my great-great-grandparents – who are Lola’s greatgreat-great-great-grandparents – were born in Germany, and I am a member of the GermanAmerican Societies in El Cajon. When Germany’s national soccer team plays in an international tournament the German-American Society has a watch party if the match has a reasonable California time start. In the 2024 Euro Cup tournament I rooted for Germany during the bracket matches. Since I’m part Danish as well as part German the knockout match between Denmark and Germany could have gone either way for me. When Germany played Spain in the quarterfinals I didn’t have the interest in Spain my son and his fiancee did, although I was happy for them when Spain won what was a great match regardless
and empathetic decision rather than a politically motivated maneuver. But this is not just about a father’s love for his son. Joe Biden’s pardoning of Hunter sets a dangerous precedent, signaling that those in positions of power can circumvent justice when it suits their political agenda.
In the end, the real victims of Biden’s pardoning decision are not just those who continue to suffer under the weight of unfair criminal justice policies. It’s the American public, who have been lied to and misled by a president who promised one thing and did another. The hope that Biden would restore honor to the White House now seems like a distant dream.
What remains is the harsh reality of political favoritism and the undermining of justice at the highest levels and the unfair use of “the whole of government” to punish those who are ideologically opposed to the Biden Whitehouse agenda.
Like the DOJ going after parents who speak out at school board meetings to the people praying in front of abortion clinics or his attempt to create a “ministry of truth” while censoring free speech of frontline doctors, professors and scientists during COVID.
But ignorance is bliss and I believe most people don’t even remember all the blatant lies and abuse of power that has gone on, or maybe weren’t aware of it in the first place because of our complicit legacy media.
of the winning team.
The United States doesn’t play in the Euro Cup, but it should be noted that should the United States play Germany or Denmark in the World Cup or in the Olympics I would be rooting for the American team. I can put aside my ancestry and my descendants’ ancestry to root for the Americans in an international match. That wouldn’t be the case if my granddaughter was playing for another country. Should Lola play for Spain in the Olympics or the Women’s World Cup I would travel to the venue to watch the match. I would be rooting for Spain for all of Lola’s competitions, not just any against the United States, and I would be rooting for the Americans in all other events as well as during the other matches in Lola’s sport. But should Lola play against the American national team I would temporarily have to take an anti-American position.
December 6 – 12, 2024
Murrieta Mesa secures historic first CIF Southern Section football title with win over Glendora
JP Raineri Sports Editor
GLENDORA — For the first time in school history, the Murrieta Mesa Rams stand atop the high school football world, claiming the CIF Southern Section Division 6 championship with a hard-fought 17-7 victory against Glendora at Citrus College on the eve Saturday, Nov. 30. The Rams wasted no time making an impact, with quarterback Trey Gamble connecting on a 52-yard pass to Cooper Murphy on the very first play of the game.
Although the drive stalled after that, Alexander Krishan secured Murrieta Mesa’s opening points with a 34-yard field goal, giving the Rams an early 3-0 lead.
Glendora struggled to find its rhythm early, hindered by turnovers. Rams linebacker Kian
Hendricks recovered a fumble by Glendora’s two-way standout
Austin Coronado late in the first quarter, allowing Murrieta Mesa’s own dual threat, Daniel Ritchie, to punch in his first touchdown and extend the lead to 10-0.
The Tartans finally struck back in the second quarter as Coronado ripped off two big runs, setting up his own 15-yard touchdown run to make it 10-7 heading into halftime.
The Rams, however, held firm.
Early in the third, they delivered a commanding eight-play drive capped by Ritchie’s second touchdown. That 17-7 lead would hold for the rest of the game, as Glendora’s offense stalled repeatedly, unable to find the end zone despite outgaining Murrieta Mesa in total yardage.
Saturday’s win, coming just two days after Thanksgiving, highlighted the team’s defen-
sive strength and the dual-threat abilities of Ritchie, who played a pivotal role in the Rams’ success. Despite having just two carries for 16 yards, Ritchie’s impact on the game was undeniable. He scored both of Murrieta Mesa’s touchdowns and sealed their victory with a clutch interception in the closing minutes.
“I really felt like they were going to bait us into the box to throw it,” Ritchie said about his game-saving interception. “I just made the read, but credit goes to my defensive line and linebackers—they executed perfectly.”
The victory also demonstrated the culmination of a deliberate
long-term strategy. Head coach Oscar McBride explained that the Rams’ challenging preseason schedule—though resulting in an initial 1-4 record—was all part of preparing the team for highpressure games like this. “We want competitive football,” said McBride. “A lot of teams like to play less challenging schedules, but we’ve focused on building a program that mirrors the intensity of the postseason.”
run during a game earlier this season. Valley News/Action Captures Media Group the Tartans couldn’t establish enough rhythm on offense to stay competitive. Quarterback Jacob Lawrence completed just 6 of 18 passing attempts for 72 yards, while Simon Zwick added 80 rushing yards. The Tartans ultimately outgained the Rams in total yards but couldn’t convert their opportunities into enough points.
And it paid off. After dropping early-season games, Murrieta Mesa reeled off nine straight wins en route to securing their title.
Despite Coronado’s impressive 113 rushing yards for Glendora,
“Our defense kept us in it all night,” noted Glendora coach Brandon Rohrer. “We knew they were big, strong, and fast, and that combination made it hard for us to come up with points.”
Defense has been the backbone
Newbury Park edges Murrieta Valley for CIF
JP
MURRIETA — Newbury Park
captured its first CIF Southern Section Division 2 football championship in 31 years with a thrilling 31-28 victory over the hometown Murrieta Valley Nighthawks last Saturday night. The game began with a dominant start by Murrieta Valley’s offensive line and standout running back Dorian Hoze. The Nighthawks
surged to a double-digit lead within the first six minutes, capitalizing on Cam Connor’s 41-yard kickoff return and back-to-back scoring drives powered by Hoze, including a 69-yard burst for his second touchdown. Newbury Park, however, absorbed the early punches and mounted a determined response.
Behind quarterback Brady Smigiel, the Panthers pieced together a 13-play scoring drive capped by his 6-yard touchdown run
late in the first quarter. A pivotal second-quarter miscue by Murrieta Valley, when a punt deflected off a blocker, set Newbury Park up for a game-tying trick-play touchdown from Smigiel to Drew Cofield. Tied at halftime, Newbury Park seized its first lead with Bohdie Ing’s 35-yard field goal in the third period. Murrieta Valley struck back as Hoze recorded his third touchdown of the game, a 24-yard run, reclaiming the lead at 21-17. Yet Newbury Park quickly
answered, with Smigiel hitting Cofield for a 66-yard scoring strike to take back the advantage. Cofield followed with a decisive defensive play. Hoze appeared headed for a 55-yard touchdown but was pursued and stripped by Cofield at the goal line, forcing a turnover through the end zone.
“I just knew I had to give my all for my team,” said Cofield of his game-changing play. The Panthers capitalized on the turnover, extending their lead to
31-21 after Smigiel connected with Shane Rosenthal on two deep completions.
Murrieta Valley, fueled by Hoze’s fourth touchdown of the night and the gritty efforts of quarterback Bear Bachmeier despite a shoulder injury, narrowed the score to 31-28 in the fourth quarter. The Nighthawks earned one last chance when a Newbury Park fumble gave them the
see NIGHTHAWKS, page C-3
Murrieta Mesa’s Daniel Ritchie (31), who had two touchdowns and a clutch interception against Glendora in the CIF-SS Division 6 title game, is pictured here saluting his team and the crowd. Valley News/Action Captures Media Group
Murrieta Mesa’s Artyon Celestine (34) looks for room to
Raineri Sports Editor
Murrieta Valley quarterback Bear Bachmeier runs upfield against Newbury Park in the second half of last week’s CIF Div. 2 championship game at Murrieta Valley on Saturday, Nov. 30. In what was probably the key play of the game, Murrieta Valley’s Dorian Haze tried to outrun Newbury Park’s Shane Rosenthal to the endzone but Haze lost the football and Newbury Park recovered to keep the Nighthawks from taking the lead. Valley News/Jerry Soifer photo Valley News/Jerry Soifer photo see RAMS, page C-3
Murrieta Valley 10U Blitzhawks advance to Florida Nationals after thrilling Regional victory
JP Raineri Sports Editor
SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO –-
The Murrieta Valley Pop Warner 10U Blitzhawks are rewriting history with an electrifying season that has captured the hearts of football enthusiasts and the Murrieta community alike. With a flawless 12-0 record, this talented youth football team is proving unstoppable. Their hard-fought 14-12 overtime win against the Arizona Snakes in the Regional Championship has secured their spot in the highly coveted National Championships in Orlando, Florida, taking place December 7-14. This marks backto-back Wescon Regional and West Coast Championships, an
accomplishment no Murrieta Pop Warner team has achieved.
The Regional Championship at San Juan Hills High School was no ordinary game. From the opening whistle, both teams delivered a gritty and physical matchup. The first half saw a relentless effort on both sides, with each team battling for dominance. The Blitzhawks had an opportunity to score in the second quarter, but a 4th-and-goal attempt from the 1-yard line fell just short, leaving fans on edge.
The Arizona Snakes finally broke the deadlock in the third quarter with a touchdown, taking a 6-0 lead. But the Blitzhawks refused to back down. Demonstrating exceptional focus and unity, they pushed back and scored in the fourth quarter to tie the game at 6-6. The defense rose to the challenge in the closing moments, preventing Arizona from regaining the lead and forcing the game into overtime.
Overtime proved just as thrilling. The Blitzhawks struck first, scoring a crucial touchdown and converting a clutch field goal to take a 14-6 lead. Arizona responded with a touchdown of their own, closing the gap to 1412. With a chance to tie the game, Arizona’s field goal attempt was blocked—sealing the victory for Murrieta and igniting celebrations on and off the field.
“I am beyond proud of this football family!” exclaimed Head Coach Matt Nunez after the game. “Yesterday’s game was a battle, and the Blitzhawks flat out REFUSE to lose! They showed tremendous poise, maturity, and heart. Unfinished business for us! This team is ready for the National Championship.”
Every step of this exceptional season exemplifies the Blitzhawks’ relentless drive and determination. They began their playoff run with a 28-20 victory over the Oceanside Running Pirates, claiming the Division 1 10U Quarterfinal Championship title with an undefeated record. They followed this up with a decisive 14-0 shutout against the Tustin Gold Cobras to secure a SemiFinal berth. Another commanding performance against Charter Oak, a 21-8 victory, brought them one step closer to their ultimate goal.
Now, the Blitzhawks turn their focus to the National Championship in Florida, where they aim to bring home the title and cement their legacy. This season’s motto, “unfinished business,” perfectly embodies their mindset as they gear up for the next phase of competition. “Our goal is not just to make it to Florida, but to be your 10U National Champions,” said Coach Nunez.
While the players are ready to rise to the challenge on the field, the team is seeking help from the community to overcome the financial hurdles associated with traveling to Florida. Donations through their Venmo page have become essential to turning their championship aspirations into reality. “We need the support of the community, and any financial contributions from businesses or individuals willing to help would be greatly appreciated,” Nunez added.
For the Blitzhawks, this season has been about more than just winning games—it’s about making history and inspiring their community. And as they prepare to take on the best teams in the nation, the players, coaches, and families are united in their mission.
The Blitzhawks’ story is far from over, and with the unwavering support of Murrieta, they’re ready to leave it all on the field in pursuit of greatness. Send local sports tips and info to sports@reedermedia.com
AnzA VAlley OUTLOOK
AnzA VAlley OUTLOOK
A determined Blitzhawks offense powers through the Arizona Snakes’ defense in a hard-fought Regional Championship game on Saturday, Nov. 23. Valley News/Courtesy photo
Jet Stover (32) and the 10U Blitzhawks defense key in on their opponent’s run game, securing a 14-12 overtime victory against the Arizona Snakes. Valley News/Courtesy photo
The Blitzhawks, representing Murrieta Valley Pop Warner and Cheer, celebrate their win with rings at San Juan Hills High School, punching their ticket to the National Championship. Valley News/Courtesy photo
The 10U Murrieta Blitzhawks pose after their Regional Championship victory on Saturday, Nov. 23 at San Juan Hills High School. Valley News/Courtesy photo
Great Oak cross country teams compete fiercely at CIF State Championships
JP Raineri Sports Editor
FRESNO — Qualifying for the prestigious CIF State Cross Country Championships at Woodward Park is an achievement in itself, but for Great Oak’s crosscountry teams, the stakes were higher. The boys team aimed to reclaim a Division I state title last won in 2022, while the girls team sought a strong finish in their competitive field.
For the boys team, the build-up to the state championships was full of promise and perseverance. Before the meet, head coach Tammy Draughon expressed confidence to the media in regard to her team’s capabilities. “I coach for the end of the season,” Draughon remarked. “It was all about not being over until it was over. I think we had a really good shot.”
The return of senior standout Westin Brown added a muchneeded boost for the Wolfpack. Brown, who overcame a stress reaction in his foot earlier in the season, joined the team as their No. 4 runner at the CIF-SS finals, helping propel the squad to its second place finish the previous week. With senior Jacob Brown, who delivered standout performances throughout the season, leading the charge, the Wolfpack entered the state race with high hopes.
The race, however, presented unexpected challenges. A disqualification on the starting line shook the team, forcing the remaining runners to adapt quickly. Despite these hurdles, Jacob Brown placed 5th overall with an impressive 15:10.6, becoming the team’s leading scorer. The boys team ultimately finished 6th in the state. Notably, the top six teams were separated by just 60 points, highlighting the fierce competition in the Division I race. While the outcome didn’t result in another state title for Great Oak, their ability to stay within striking distance was commendable.
“They’re capable of winning,”
Draughon had said to the media ahead of the meet. “I think the winning team will have to have five runners in the top 25 scoring positions.” Though that goal fell just short, Great Oak’s effort demonstrated the depth and determination embedded in the program.
The Great Oak girls team delivered a solid performance as well, finishing 12th in the Division I race. Senior Makenna Mitchell provided a strong lead, crossing the line in 37th place, while Temescal Canyon senior Megan Crum and Vista Murrieta senior Erika Kirk also shone with top 15 finishes, placing 13th and 15th, respectively. Great Oak’s girls showed grit in a tightly packed team battle, with only seven points separating the teams ranked 9th through 12th.
After the race, the team’s social media page expressed their sentiments, writing, “Congratulations, Girls! We are proud of you! Makenna Mitchell, Avery Smith, Ava Beeson, Abby Huth, Lauren Miller, Brianna Ropacki, and Audrey Rojas raced for our Wolfpack XC!”
For the boys, the social media reflection was a mix of pride and heartbreak. The post read, “Today was bittersweet in many ways. We came prepared to compete for a State Title and ended up dealing with an inconsistent disqualification on the starting line that took a toll. Big Congrats to Jacob Brown on placing 5th in the race! Jacob, thank you for shouldering the weight of leading the team today.”
The CIF State Cross Country Championships, held on a semisunny, yet cold day in Fresno, showcased the tenacity and talent of Southern California’s top teams and individuals. For Great Oak, the event was a testament to their strength, skill, and ability to compete amongst the best, even in the face of adversity.
Send local sports tips and info to sports@reedermedia.com
from page C-1
ball with less than two minutes remaining. However, the Panthers’ defense held strong, stopping
RAMS from page C-1
of Murrieta Mesa’s success all year, and Saturday was no exception. The Rams forced three turnovers that proved critical in shutting down Glendora’s normally potent offense. McBride wasn’t surprised by his defense’s reliability. “Our defense has been doing this all year,” he said. “They’ve carried us through some challenging games, and tonight was no different.”
As for Ritchie, McBride heaped praise on his standout player’s versatility, highlighting his value to the team. “Daniel’s just an outstanding football player. He can
Bachmeier just short of a crucial first down on a fourth-and-3 play with under a minute left.
Smigiel finished with an impressive 311 passing yards and
essentially play any position we need him to. We’re fortunate to have him on our side,” the coach remarked.
Murrieta Mesa’s title win is even more remarkable considering the program’s climb within the Big West Lower Division. After the six local teams split from the Southwestern League two years ago, the Rams built a foundation that prioritized steady improvement, and they reached the peak this year with their championship run.
“This means everything for our program, our school, and our community,” McBride said. “These boys earned this moment, and we’re going to enjoy every
three touchdowns, showcasing his ability to deliver clutch plays under pressure. Rosenthal added 120 receiving yards, while Hoze’s stellar 263-yard
second of it.”
With a 10-4 season record, Murrieta Mesa isn’t done just yet. The Rams advance to the CIF State regional playoffs, with matchups announced on Sunday, Dec. 1. The Rams will be competing in Division 3-AA in the South Region at Frontier High School on Friday, Dec. 6 at 7:30 p.m.
Winners from the NorCal and SoCal Regional games will advance to the CIF State Football Championship, December 13-14, representing their respective divisions for the title of CIF State Champion.
Send local sports tips and info to sports@reedermedia.com.
rushing performance concluded a season where he eclipsed the 2,000-yard mark. Ultimately, the Panthers’ balanced attack and key defensive plays sealed their perfect
14-0 season and a long-awaited championship. Send local sports tips and info to sports@reedermedia.com
Sports Fans
The Great Oak boys cross country team gave it their all, with a 6th-place team finish at the CIF State Championships. Valley News/Courtesy photo
The Great Oak girls cross country team battled hard at the CIF State Championships, securing a 12th-place finish in Division I. Valley News/Courtesy photo
NIGHTHAWKS
Newbury Park’s Alberto Ayon catches a long pass to set up a first-half touchdown to keep Newbury Park close to Murrieta Valley in the CIF Div. 2 championship game on Saturday, Nov. 30.
Nighthawks Head Coach George Wilson looks on while enjoying the 14-0 first-half lead in the CIF Div. 2 championship game on Saturday, Nov. 30. Valley News/Jerry Soifer photo Valley News/Rob Davis Photography
Soboba schools celebrate Native American Heritage Month
Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians Special to Valley News
Students at the Soboba Tribal Preschool and Noli Indian School on the Soboba Reservation spent November celebrating Native American Heritage Month in various ways. Both culminated the month with luncheons on Nov. 21.
Preschoolers invited family members to the Soboba Sports Complex for a Fall Feast that included entertainment from each of the classes. The event began with a prayer from Soboba Elder Marian Chacon who thanked the Heavenly Father “for all the gifts you have given to us. We ask your blessings on all the children, parents, and family here today and especially on all the teachers and helpers who do such a wonderful job teaching our children; and this food we are about to receive.”
Preschoolers performed two songs they learned about scarecrows and falling leaves, which were partially in the Luiseño language. Pre-K students had songs about leaves on the trees as well as one titled, “Hello Mr. Turkey.” Kindergartners delighted the audience with their “Turkey Dance,” followed by the Cha-Cha Slide, a dance they enjoy in class almost every day.
Preschool staff and teachers scooped out turkey, mashed potatoes, dressing, gravy, cranberry sauce and vegetables as guests made their way along the line of hot serving pans filled with greatsmelling food.
The gymnasium walls were decorated with class projects. Teachers shared 18 reasons why they are thankful for their kindergartners such as “Jensen’s leadership,” “Kai’s dance moves,” “Anthony’s singing,” and “Palkí’s kindness to all.” Preschoolers filled up turkey feathers with what they are most thankful for and Brian Chacon III said, “Making rainbows for Violet and mom and dad and grandma.” Willow Valdez said she is thankful for “Mom and dad loving me.”
Cheyenne Chacon, whose son Anthony Ortega is in kindergarten, said she likes the preschool because it is in the community where they live. “And it teaches the children about our culture,” she said.
Hope Chacon, wife of Brian Chacon Jr., said their daughter Violet Chacon graduated from the preschool and is now in first grade at San Jacinto Valley Academy. Their son Brian is in preschool and really likes his teachers. Anthony and Brian III are great-grandsons of Marian Chacon, who has 10 other great-grandchildren and one greatgreat-grandchild.
Palki Herrera is in kindergarten and her mother, Alyssa Salgado said she likes the preschool because it is very family-oriented. “They have events like this where we can all come together,” said Alyssa, whose son Gabriel Herrera graduated last school year. “Also, I got to go to school here so my kids get to experience what I did.”
Soboba Elder Alice Helms enjoyed the morning with her greatgrandson Jonathan Helms Jr., 5. His parents, Jonathan Sr. and Evelyn said they like the school because they do a lot of things revolving
around culture, like teaching the children their (Luiseño) language.
In the weeks leading up to the Fall Feast, the children enjoyed having Carrie Garcia share acorn games and acorn tops with them.
Bird dancing and singing were offered every Friday when students were encouraged to wear their bird skirts and ribbon shirts. On Nov. 18, Tashina Miranda Ornelas, Culture Department Coordinator/Instructor at Noli, visited to help the kids make acorn necklaces. Soboba Tribal Member Tekla Diaz, who teaches a Fancy Shawl dance class for the community twice a month, put on a demonstration for the students.
Preschool Director Lenora “Ponie” Mojado said it was like a mini-pow wow and everyone loved it. She added that Soboba’s Tribal Council Secretary Monica Herrera comes to the school every other week to work with the students on the proper pronunciation of words in their native language.
A potluck “Honoring Our Elders” was held at noon at the Noli campus with cultural sharing through traditional songs and dances. A combined lunch for middle and high school students allowed all to participate at the same time.
Mrs. Ornelas welcomed everyone to the annual event. “On behalf of all students and staff, I want to personally thank all of our Soboba Elders first for always supporting our students and student programs here at Noli. I’d like to say thank you to all of our Elders who have shared in the past and continue to share their experiences and cultural knowledge and traditions with us here at the school. And I would also like to thank all the elders who are here with us today to continue this
tradition of sharing song, dance and food together. And lastly, I would like to honor and thank our Elder relations who are not able to be present with us here today but who still remain here with us in spirit and in memory.”
She then introduced Soboba Tribal Member Damon Miranda who opened the event with prayer, followed by some bird songs. Elders were then invited to be served first, followed by the community, as is customary.
Helping to plate the meals of turkey, dressing, potatoes and more were Noli staff members Tanya Rivera, Seandee Brown and Camille Diaz. They planned on serving 200 meals, half of which were for students. An entire table dedicated to desserts from pumpkin and pecan pies to cookies and chocolate-covered strawberries was enough to satisfy everyone’s appetite.
The Pechanga Singers and Dancers invited students to join them. The Desert Cahuilla Singers and Dancers from Torres Martinez included some of Ornelas’ family members, which was an added treat.
The Elders potluck had been held for many years but was discontinued for a while. Ornelas said she wanted to revitalize it so the students could have a connection to the generations that came before them and started holding it again in 2023.
Leading up to this year’s event, students had been shown portions of Soboba’s heritage video which includes first-person remembrances from Elders about what things used to be like on the reservation when they were growing up. Several came to the school to talk to the students in person and answer any
questions they had about the past after viewing the video.
“Some of the Elders came to the classes, sharing their experiences of life on the reservation; what life was like prior to gaming,” Ornelas said. “Many of the students were shocked to hear the Elders share their stories and it was eye-opening for them to compare their lives to how they live today; it helps them appreciate what they have now.”
Caroline Post, mother of Noli Principal Donovan Post, was one of the guest speakers and recalled when you could buy a hamburger, fries and a drink for 40 cents. He said the stories of their lives at Soboba were not negative, just honest. Such as sharing how there was a time when they had to have water trucked in from the city of
San Jacinto and now there are 15 or so wells and aquifers on the reservation.
He said, “It’s so great having the Elders come by and talk to the kids and have them listen and be able to ask questions. Many from that generation are gone so it’s important to hear their stories now. There has been so much change and so much progress has been made in the past 25 years. These kids today never grew up needing a lot. I think it’s important for them to hear the stories from when there wasn’t much here to learn what they came from.”
He said the students always enjoy having the bird singers visit and a combined lunch is rare. “It’s nice to have everybody together,” Post said.
MSJC Student Health Center earns prestigious AAAHC accreditation
SAN JACINTO - Mt. San Jacinto College (MSJC) announces that its Student Health Center (SHC) has been awarded a three-year Ambulatory Accreditation by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC). As of November 12, 2024, MSJC becomes the only community college in the nation to achieve this distinguished accreditation, placing it among just 48 universities nationwide—and only 14 in California—recognized for excellence in ambulatory health care.
“This accreditation is the result of our unwavering commitment to the health and well-being of our students,” said Lisa McAllister, DHA, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, Dean of Student Health Centers at MSJC. “Our team has worked tirelessly to meet the rigorous standards of AAAHC, and I couldn’t be prouder of their dedication to quality improvement and patient safety.”
The MSJC SHC opened in August 2019, providing vital health services to students, staff, and
the broader community. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the center pivoted to serve as a critical resource, offering testing and vaccinations to thousands. In January 2022, the SHC transitioned back to providing comprehensive health services and began its accreditation journey.
“Accreditation wasn’t just a goal—it was a necessity,” McAllister explained. “We saw this as an opportunity to improve our services and align with the highest standards in health care. It was a challenging 18-month process, but the results speak for themselves.”
Services offered by the SHC include registered nurse and advanced practice provider visits, mental health counseling, reproductive health services, immunizations, and more. The center operates at the San Jacinto, Menifee Valley, and Temecula Valley campuses.
Dr. Roger Schultz, MSJC Superintendent/President, praised the SHC team for their accomplishment: “This accreditation reflects MSJC’s
commitment to excellence in every aspect of student support. Our Student Health Center is not only a vital resource for our students but also a model of community health care. I commend Dr. McAllister and her team for their hard work and vision in achieving this milestone.”
Looking ahead, McAllister is focused on increasing student awareness of the health center’s comprehensive services and continuing to build on the foundation of excellence established through accreditation.
“Our students deserve worldclass health care, and that’s exactly what we provide,” McAllister said. “We are excited about the future and remain committed to empowering our students to thrive—academically, physically, and mentally.”
For more information about the MSJC Student Health Center, visit https://www.msjc.edu/ healthcenter/index.html or contact the center at 951-465-8371 or healthservices@msjc.edu
About Accreditation Association for Ambulatory
Pre-K students show off their turkey hats during the Soboba Tribal Preschool Fall Feast at the Soboba Sports Complex. Valley News/Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians photos
Preschoolers perform a song about fall leaves, sharing their knowledge of the Luiseño words for the different colors.
Tashina Miranda Ornelas, at left, is joined by two Noli students to dance while members of the Desert Cahuilla sing bird songs during the school’s annual potluck.
Teacher Laura Aldrete and Instructional Aide Elena Vega Castello share reasons why they are thankful for their 18 kindergartners.
Damon Miranda, center, is joined by family and friends during the opening bird songs at Noli’s “Honoring Our Elders” potluck, Nov. 21.
MSJC is the only community college to achieve the Ambulatory Accreditation by the AAAHC.
Highway Update
Motorists traveling on westbound SR 91 will find full weeknight closures through Dec. 18
Tony Ault Staff Writer
The Riverside County Transportation District is notifying motorists traveling through Corona to be advised to steer clear of full weeknight closures of westbound 91. Now through Dec. 18, the westbound 91 will be closed between the 71 and Green River Road on Monday through Wednesday nights as part of RCTC’s 71/91 Interchange Project. Due to the holidays, no closures will be scheduled from Dec. 20 through Jan. 1, 2025. Closures are anticipated to restart on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025.
The full closures will allow crews to remove more than 40 beams of support structures that span above the westbound 91 lanes. This work requires precision and time to be completed safely. Over the summer, crews completed a similar operation with the removal of support structures over eastbound 91.
Motorists traveling on the westbound 91 and southbound 71 should plan extra time to reach local destinations and businesses in the area.
To avoid lengthy traffic delays, motorists are highly advised to avoid the westbound 91 by using the northbound 71 to westbound 60 to southbound 57 to get around the closure. Construction activity is subject to change due to weather or other factors.
RCTC, in partnership with
Caltrans, is reconstructing the 71/91 interchange in Corona. The project will replace the single-lane loop connector between the eastbound 91 and northbound 71 with a new, two-lane, direct connector ramp. The project is anticipated to be completed in 2025.
To register for construction updates, text 7191interchange to 855-793-2625 or sign up through the project webpage. View the latest construction activity at: rctc. org/7191updates.
Temecula
The City of Temecula’s French Valley Parkway Improvement Phase 2 project is well underway with no recent I-215/I-15 traffic tieups other than accidents reported. As of Oct. 1, contractors on this $38 million city project have completed the retaining walls on the eastside of the northbound I-15 and paving operations are beginning on the newest roadway leading to the Santa Gertrudis Creek overpass. Slope paving progress to keep water away from the overpass is also continuing with 22,000 cubic yards of concrete being used.
Menifee/Murrieta
The City of Menifee this week reported new work will be taking place on Newport and Haun roads in a Superior Pavement Marking Signing Striping Project. The project work began Monday, Dec. 2 and is expected to be completed on Friday, Dec. 6. Traffic control will be in place and motorists should expect delays.
Caltrans contractors are continuing some work on Interstate 215 from Murrieta to Menifee to improve the road surface, update shoulder rumble strips, enhance culverts, upgrade guardrails, stabilize slopes, and boost highway worker safety.
Construction crews after Dec. 2 will focus on several key tasks, including landscaping, rock blanket installation, and other related activities. Shoulder and lane closures will be in effect on northbound I-215 at the Scott Road Loop Off-Ramp for the rock blanket installation. Additionally, day work will continue in both directions of I-215 between Clinton Keith Road and McCall Blvd., covering postmiles R12.51 to R20.842. Commuter access will be maintained, with shoulder closures and lane reductions in effect. Watch for signage alerting motorists of the construction zone. Drivers should anticipate traffic delays and plan accordingly. The work is dependent upon the weather conditions.
Hemet
Caltrans work continues on Florida Ave. (State Route 74) from Winchester Road to Fairview Avenue. Just prior to the Thanksgiving holiday break Caltrans crews with their heavy resurfacing equipment finished most of the paving on Florida Ave. from San Jacinto Street to Fairview Ave. in Valle Vista, much to the relief of drivers. This week and in the coming weeks striping the
completed highway will be taking place, but the ADA upgrades and sidewalk work will be continuing. The overall effect of the repaving efforts along with filling potholes has made this highway much smoother.
Drivers should carefully watch out for the striping equipment operating with some lanes being closed for a short time to let the line paint dry. Drivers might want to seek alternate routes to avoid delays.
Traffic holds may still occur for equipment relocation. All daytime paving is expected to be completed by Feb. 2025. Work timelines are subject to change dependent on weather and material availability.
The historic Strawberry Bridge on Highway 74 toward Mountain Center has been mostly upgraded by Caltrans contractors but some crews may still be working, but the roadway is now completely open with the final work expected to be completed very soon.
Perris
Caltrans crews after Dec. 2 will be working along both northbound and southbound Interstate 215 (I215) between the San Jacinto River Bridge and Ramona Expressway in the city of Perris. The daytime work may include shoulder closures at various locations along both northbound and southbound I-215.
This week, daytime work will involve some shoulder closures at various locations along both northbound and southbound I-215, including roadside clearing at the
Temecula Valley students honored in November EDUCATION
Recipients of the Temecula Valley Student of the Month award for November are, from left, Mia Shippley, Westin Brown, Angelina
The Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce Student of the Month program, recognizing and inspiring academic excellence since the 1992-1993 school year, held its awards breakfast on Nov. 7 at the Murrieta Sizzler restaurant, 40489 Murrieta Hot Springs Road.
Sally Myers, founder of the nonprofit, welcomed everyone and shared the mission of the local high school recognition program which sets the criteria for the students who are chosen.
Supported by the community, college or vocational/trade schoolbound seniors are acknowledged and honored for their character, their love of learning, and their willingness to participate in numerous activities such as campus events, athletics, and community service or the ability to persevere and overcome difficult life circumstances. They accomplish all this in a setting that honors God, country, community, family and free enterprise.
Backpacks filled with gifts, 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 are Chaparral High School’s
Mia Shippley, Great Oak’s Westin Brown, Rancho Christian’s Angelina Kurkjian, Temecula Preparatory School’s David Huang, Saint Jeanne de Lestonnac Catholic High School’s Julianna Linsalato and Temecula Valley’s Crew Allen. Mia Shippley Chaparral High School Principal
Tina Miller said Mia is extremely passionate about how she can make an impact on others as an active member of AVID, currently serving as president. “I love the way AVID is invested in students in the community,” Mia said, who will be the first in her family to attend college. She refers to her AVID teacher Gayle Trout as her “school mom” and said, “Reflecting on how much Ms. Trout has changed me and given me the room and support to grow as a leader, I have decided I want to be a Ms. Trout in the future. That is why one of the greatest contributions I want to give to my community is pursuing a math degree so I can become a teacher or a professor.” Trout, who is also Mia’s English teacher, said the outstanding senior is a force to be reckoned with and that the AVID team unanimously chose her to be Student of the Month. “She is super organized and is always thinking 20 steps ahead of everyone else,” Trout said. As co-editor-in-chief of the yearbook, Trout said Mia has turned it into a living history of the school because she goes out of her way to include as many students as possible. Westin Brown Great Oak High School Assistant
Principal Anthony Califano said Westin is a very kind and generous person who turns into Superman when he puts his running shoes on. Westin said a life lesson he will take with him to college is learning how to overcome hardship and failure. “Those are two things that everybody at some point in their life is going to experience; you have to be ready,” he said. “You have two options – give up or take a step back, look at the situation and figure out how to make the best out of what’s going on.” He said that through the challenges he has had as a student and as an athlete, he’s learned to choose the second option and tried to make the best out of his situations. Tammy Draughon, head coach for cross country and track and field, said, “The wonderful thing about Westin is that he is not only a phenomenal athlete and a phenomenal student but he’s kind and generous and makes everyone around him feel important and wanted and valued; you can’t ask for more than that.” She said Westin holds the Great Oak record in the three-mile run and bests the times for the 1600 and 3200 that are made by really good high school runners. He has also placed in the state finals twice.
Angelina Kurkjian
Rancho Christian High School
Principal Doris Jackson described Angelina as being super kind and showing selfless love to everyone she is around. “And this shows up when she volunteers at the hospital, starts a pre-med club at the school, and gives Rancho their first annual
D Street interchange. Landscaping work will take place at both the Ramona Expressway and Nuevo Road. Nighttime work is scheduled between 8 p.m. and 4 a.m. Nighttime activities will focus on the southbound Nuevo Road on-ramp, where both ramp work and electrical work will be taking place. Temporary striping will be conducted during nighttime work. Night work is weather permitting. Commuter access will remain open during daytime work; however, nighttime work will involve lane reductions.
San Jacinto It has been reported that Gilman Springs Road is now completely open between San Jacinto and Moreno Valley relieving some traffic on busy Highway 60 out of Beaumont. Caltrans reports no construction taking place on Highway 60 from Beaumont to Moreno Valley. Keep in mind to still obey the electric or stationary speed signs or face steep fines.
RCTC did report that while work on SR 60 truck lanes between Beaumont and Moreno Valley is complete, final safety work will continue during the nighttime hours that may require some lane closures, but the highway will remain open throughout the work.
Aguanga, Anza Caltrans reports no work is scheduled in Aguanga, Anza, or State Routes 371 and 79.
Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com
blood drive,” she said. Angelina admits to having a rough start to her teenage years when she felt unmotivated and not focused on her future. After experiencing an epiphany of sorts, she decided to try harder. “And now I am here celebrating my community and academic achievements with the people that I care about,” said Angelina, who plans to pursue a career as a pediatric doctor. “I hope to one day help people who do go through hard paths just as I did. If there is one lesson that I have really learned from my life, it’s that there is no perfect time to start; you just kind of have to start now.” She said, “We can’t wait for success to happen, we have to make success happen. We can’t wait for life to be good, we have to make life good. Thank you to all those people that supported me when I classified myself as unfixable.”
Her AP teacher Hannah Thomas said words that come to mind to describe Angelina are intentional, courageous and compassionate.
David Huang
Temecula Preparatory Upper School Dean Garrett Corduan introduced David as an exceptional student and a positive member of the school community who is involved with theater and ballet off campus. David stepped up to lead a campaign to create a Patriots mascot for the school that serves students in grades TK-12.
“He has taken our school to the next level with his school spirit,” Corduan said. David has attended the Temecula Preparatory School for eight years and said a lesson he learned is that he used to look at school like a laundry list of tasks that needed to be completed to earn a diploma. “Now each day I set a goal for myself,” he said. “I would rather go home late and tired but love what I do than to go home and not have a lot to do.” His geometry teacher Jamie Arreola has known David since eighth grade and said it has been a joy watching him grow. “He’s very serious about everything he does,” she said. “He always stands up for what’s right; he’s fierce and courageous.” His father said David has so much empathy for others but remains hard on himself even though he is supported and loved by those around him.
Julianna Linsalato
Saint Jeanne de Lestonnac Catholic High School President Sister Ernestine Velarde said Julianna has been a student at the school since preschool. Seeing her in a talent show when she was in fourth grade, Velarde said
Julianna demonstrated grace and beauty. “And she has since shown those attributes as a person, not just through dance,” she said. Julianna said her leadership roles as Campus Ministry leader, varsity cheer captain, ASB president and as a student ambassador led her to be chosen for this honor. “I know the knowledge and wisdom I have gained through these endeavors will guide me throughout my future,” she said. “One life lesson I have learned is that not changing leads to choosing. A positive mentality changes an individual’s outlook on life, affecting their growth and personal development.” Julianna plans to major in psychology and early childhood education. “I have a strong passion for education, which is freedom,” she said. “I hope to return to this community and share that love of education.” Her father said Julianna is the youngest of three children and since preschool has possessed a kindness that shines through in everything she does.
Crew Allen
Temecula Valley High School
Principal Donna Lione said Crew is an outstanding athlete student scholar. She always asks seniors what their best memory of high school has been and what has been the hardest. Crew said his best moment was when the football team beat Santiago High School because it happened on his mother’s birthday and he had just found out that he had gotten all 4s and 5s on his AP exams. The hardest moment was not making the playoffs this year. As team captain, he continues to be an exceptional football player. Three words he said others would use to describe him are “positive, smart and fun.” Lione said her own words for Crew are “genuine, kind, loving and giving.” Aside from his four years as a letterman on the soccer, track and football teams, he also enjoys disc golf and is president of the Ultimate Frisbee Club. “I’ve learned many lessons throughout high school but two that stand out the most to me are that hard work always does pay off and to have fun in your life,” Crew said. He plans to take a semester at Brigham Young University studying construction engineering before serving a two-year mission for his church. He hopes to start his own home building company in the future. For more information, please contact Program Chair Amber Poncy at 951-676-5090 or http:// temecula.org/student-of-themonth
Diane A. Rhodes Special to Valley News
Kurkjian, David Huang, Julianna Linsalato and Crew Allen.
Valley News/John P. Hess photo
RFK’s
calls to ban one of big pharma’s most powerful tools rattle drugmakers despite uncertain political prospects
Adam Pack
President-elect Donald Trump’s nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to helm the Department of Health and Human Services(HHS) is reportedly rattling drugmakers in light of Kennedy’s prior calls to ban pharmaceutical advertising. If confirmed by the Senate to serve as HHS secretary, Kennedy could marshal the country’s public health agencies to implement his Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) priorities, leading one pharmaceutical industry observer to claim that Kennedy is likely to attempt a ban on direct-to-consumer (DTC) drug advertising. However, any attempt from Kennedy to crack down on pharmaceutical advertising would almost certainly be challenged by drugmakers on First Amendment grounds and may lack the support of Trump and Republican lawmakers who have so far refrained from commenting on Kennedy’s proposal.
“One of the things I’m going to advise Donald Trump to do in order to correct the chronic disease epidemic is to ban pharmaceutical advertising on TV,” Kennedy said to thunderous applause during a Tucker Carlson Live Tour event in Glendale, Arizona, on Oct. 31.
“There’s only two countries in the world that allow pharmaceutical advertising on the airwaves. One of them is New Zealand and the other is us and we have the highest disease rate, and we buy more drugs and they’re more expensive than anywhere in the world.”
Spending on DTC pharmaceutical advertising in the United States ballooned to more than $7 billion in 2023, with ad buys on weight loss and diabetes drugs surpassing $1 billion for the first time, according to analysis from MediaRadar.
‘Threat to the public good’
“Whilst we have a relatively benign view of RFK’s impact on the Pharma industry, one thing that does worry us is the potential for the U.S. government to ban DTC advertising of drugs,” United Kingdom-based research firm
Intron Health wrote in a report excerpted by FiercePharma, a pharmaceutical industry-focused news outlet. “We see this as the biggest imminent threat from RFK and the new Trump administration.”
Kennedy could wield considerable influence over the second Trump administration’s approach to pharmaceutical advertising since the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) — the chief regulator of the pharmaceutical industry’s advertisements — is housed within HHS.
The Biden FDA issued new guidelines on DTC advertising that went into effect on May 20, requiring advertising to state drugs’ side effects and medication risks in a “clear, conspicuous, and neutral manner.” Kennedy called for a review of these guidelines in an op-ed in The Wall Street Journal published on Sept. 5.
During his run for president and as a Trump campaign surrogate, Kennedy claimed that media outlets who receive substantial ad revenue from pharmaceutical companies cannot report on Big Pharma with objectivity.
“The primary purpose of pharmaceutical advertising is not to influence consumers, but rather the television networks and news itself,” according to a statement on Kennedy’s website. “It gives Big Pharma the power to dictate what goes on the news — and what doesn’t — because the networks won’t bite the hand that feeds them.”
“Every other country in the world recognizes that pharma ads represent a threat to the public good,” Kennedy’s website also claims.
Kennedy’s concern that mainstream media has been coopted by the pharmaceutical industry to buy news outlets’ silence on scrutinizing drugmakers in exchange for ad revenue has been embraced by influential voices in the MAHA movement and other Trump allies.
“The news ad spending from pharma is a public relations lobbying tactic, essentially to
buy off the news,” Calley Means, a Kennedy advisor and MAHA advocate, told Tucker Carlson during an interview on Feb 2. “The news is not investigating pharma.”
“No advertising for pharma,” Elon Musk wrote on X on Nov. 19 in response to a post alleging a correlation between the growth of pharmaceutical advertising and rising media bias.
Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, Trump’s nominee to lead the National Institutes of Health, has also argued that media organizations that rake in pharmaceutical advertising revenue should face increased scrutiny when reporting on public health matters. Bhattacharya was notably blacklisted by Twitter before Musk bought the platform over his criticism of the medical establishment’s lockdown approach to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Another argument against direct-to-consumer advertising by drug companies: Because of DTC ads, drug companies like Pfizer hold a vice grip on the editorial policies of conventional American media, which can ill afford to lose the advertising money,” Bhattacharya wrote on X on May 30, 2023.
Dr. Marty Mackary, Trump’s pick to lead the FDA, has not commented on Kennedy’s proposal nor allegations that the mainstream media has been corrupted by the pharmaceutical industry.
Ban denies ‘Opportunity to be informed’
Although a ban on pharmaceutical advertising would put the U.S. more in line with the rest of the world, an attempted prohibition of the practice by the incoming Trump administration would likely infringe upon the First Amendment’s protection of “commercial speech,” according to Dr. Jeffrey Singer, a general surgeon and senior fellow at the libertarian-leaning Cato Institute.
“His calls to ban pharmaceutical advertising violate the First Amendment right to freely share and exchange information, including scientific information, and infringe on the individual right
to self-medicate,” Singer wrote in a statement following Trump’s nomination of Kennedy to serve as HHS secretary. Banning pharmaceutical advertising would also make Americans less informed about the availability of drugs and their side effects and widen the information gap between medical practitioners and patients, an apparent contradiction to Kennedy’s pledge to fight for Americans’ ability to question the medical establishment and do their own research, Singer told the Daily Caller News Foundation in an interview.
“On the one hand, RFK Jr. says — and I agree with him — that people need to be empowered. They need to do their own due diligence. We should be doing our own investigations,” Singer told the DCNF. “Well, how are you going to do that if you are barred from hearing what the pharmaceutical companies have to say about their medication, and its risks and benefits and side effects, which the FDA requires them to mention?”
“If you want an empowered population of adults to be able to do their own due diligence, you can’t block them from the information that a pharmaceutical [ad] is going to give them — especially when they’re [pharmaceutical companies] allowed to give it to healthcare practitioners,” Singer added. “Denying us the information actually denies us the opportunity to be informed.” Uncertain political prospects Kennedy’s call to ban pharmaceutical advertising is likely to face skepticism from Republican lawmakers who have traditionally preferred a deregulatory approach to the pharmaceutical industry. The current legislative effort to ban DTC pharmaceutical advertising in Congress has no support from Republican lawmakers.
“Sometimes when I hear his [Kennedy’s] agenda discussed, people are like ‘sounds great — he’s never going to do it’. There’s zero chance he’s going
Trump names Kash Patel as FBI Director nominee
Julie Reeder Publisher
President-elect Donald Trump announced Saturday that Kashyap “Kash” Patel will be his nominee for FBI Director.
Previously serving as Chief of Staff to the Secretary of Defense, Patel had been considered for roles such as deputy FBI director or a senior Department of Justice position, largely due to potential
challenges in Senate confirmation. Trump described Patel as a “brilliant lawyer, investigator, and ‘America First’ fighter” in a statement released Saturday, Nov. 30.
“I am proud to announce that Kashyap ‘Kash’ Patel will serve as the next Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Kash is a brilliant lawyer, investigator, and ‘America First’ fighter who has spent his career exposing
corruption, defending Justice, and protecting the American People,” Trump said.
He added, “He played a pivotal role in uncovering the Russia, Russia, Russia Hoax, standing as an advocate for truth, accountability, and the Constitution. Kash did an incredible job during my first term, where he served as chief of staff at the Department of Defense, deputy director of national intelligence, and senior director of counterterrorism at the National Security Council. Kash has also tried over 60 jury trials. This FBI will end the growing crime epidemic in America, dismantle the migrant criminal gangs, and stop the evil scourge of human and drug trafficking across the Border.”
to be able to undo these conflicts of interests and the power of Big Ag and these Republican lawmakers who have a lot of big donors in these industries,” Megyn Kelly told Casey Means, during a Nov. 20 interview on her show about whether Kennedy’s MAHA priorities have enough support to be achieved during the next four years.
The pharmaceutical industry notably has roughly 1800 registered lobbyists in the United States, and industry PACs have doled out more than $15 million to candidates this year.
Trump tried to further regulate pharmaceutical advertising during his first administration by requiring DTC ads on television to include the list price for nearly all drugs covered by Medicare and Medicaid. Three large drugmakers filed suit in response and a federal judge struck down the regulation before it went into effect, ruling that HHS overstepped its authority to compel drugmakers to include their list prices in advertising.
Trump’s transition team did not respond to the DCNF’s inquiry about whether the president-elect supports Kennedy’s advocacy to crack down on pharmaceutical advertising.
The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, a trade association that lobbies on behalf of the pharmaceutical industry, declined to comment on Kennedy’s calls to ban pharmaceutical advertising. A Kennedy spokesperson did not respond to the DCNF’s request for comment.
All content created by the Daily Caller News Foundation, an independent and nonpartisan newswire service, is available without charge to any legitimate news publisher that can provide a large audience. All republished articles must include our logo, our reporter’s byline and their DCNF affiliation. For any questions about our guidelines or partnering with us, please contact licensing@ dailycallernewsfoundation.org
Patel is set to work under Pam Bondi, Trump’s nominee for Attorney General, following former Congressman Matt Gaetz’s withdrawal from consideration for the role. Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey had also been a contender for both the FBI and Attorney General positions, according to reports from Axios.
“Kash has a lot of allies who think placing him in a top role would be well-received by the Trump base and send a clear message that Trump is serious about major reform to the justice and law-enforcement agencies,” a transition team source told Axios.
During Trump’s first term, Patel became widely known for his criticism of the Mueller investigation into alleged Russian interference in the 2016 election. A vocal opponent of what he sees as the misuse of surveillance powers, Patel has called for the creation of a “24/7 declassification office.” Patel has also vowed to release the JFK assassination files, the P.Diddy files and the Epstein files. Patel has also made bold proposals for restructuring the FBI.
Is your time valuable?
“I’d shut down the FBI Hoover building on day one and reopen it the next day as a museum of the deep state,” Patel said in a recent interview. “And I’d take the 7,000 employees who work in that building and send them across America to chase down criminals.”
Do you realize knowledge makes you an influencer?
Is authenticity important to you?
Is vetted, trustworthy local
Is freedom of speech important to you?
Do you believe democracy dies in the darkness?
Hamilton High athlete places first at the Second Annual Cpl. Hunter Lopez Memorial Tournament of Warriors
Diane Sieker Staff Writer
Hamilton High School junior Skyy Vollan took first place at the second annual Corporal Hunter Lopez Memorial Tournament of
Warriors wrestling competition at Shadow Hills High School in Indio Tuesday, Nov. 26.
“Skyy wrestled extremely well against some of the best teams in the Coachella Valley and other top schools in the Southern
Tuesday, Nov. 26. Anza Valley Outlook/Courtesy photo Department employees, Herman and Alicia Lopez. He was a local hero and graduate of La Quinta High School. The tournament was created in
Section,” said coach Juan Lopez.
“It was an honor to compete at this tournament.”
U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Hunter Lopez, 22, from the Coachella Valley, was among the 13 U.S. service members killed during a
bomb attack near the international airport in Kabul, Afghanistan in 2021, according to the Riverside Sheriff’s Association. Lopez was from a family with deep roots in the Coachella Valley. He is theson of two Riverside County Sheriff’s
ACIL to host Cookies with Santa Dec. 14
Diane
Holiday gifts, ornaments, hot cocoa, Christmas cookies and candy will make for a delicious evening at Anza Civic Improvement League’s annual Cookies with Santa event to be held Saturday, Dec 14, from 5 to 8 p.m. The festivities will occur at the Little Red Schoolhouse in Anza. Santa will be on hand to provide photo opportunities with the little ones. Gingerbread houses will also be on display.
The Anza Civic Improvement League is a nonprofit organization that provides a park with a playground for the Anza community to enjoy. The mission of the ACIL is to restore, manage and enhance the Little Red Schoolhouse and Minor Park in partnership with the public for the enjoyment of present and future generations. The organization is run solely by volunteers with income that is generated from fundraisers, park rentals, schoolhouse rentals and generous donations from the community.
Both the park and the schoolhouse are available to rent
Hamilton High School junior Skyy Vollan displays the plaque she earned by placing first in the Second Annual Cpl. Hunter Lopez Memorial Tournament of Warriors wrestling competition at Shadow Hills High School in Indio
Sieker Staff Writer
ANZA’S UPCOMING EVENTS
If you have an upcoming community event, email it to valleyeditor@reedermedia.com , put “attention events” in the subject line. Readers should call ahead on some listed events for the latest updates. Please also email us if any of these listings have new or updated information. Thank you!
Regular Happenings
Anza Farmers’ Market
Located at 56333 SR 371, Anza farmers’ market hours are every Thursday from 4 p.m. to 8pm through October. Various farmers, musicians, artisans and food vendors set up weekly. Ample parking in the field and lot to the west and east of the field. The market is operated by the High Country Conservancy, a 501(c)(3), and is a California
JULIE REEDER,
MALINA GUGEL,
Editorial
J.P. RAINERI,
SHANE GIBSON, Staff Photographer
TONY AULT, Staff Writer
DIANE SIEKER, Staff Writer
JOE NAIMAN, Ind. Contractor
ROGER BODDAERT, Ind. Contractor
Advertising Sales
JOSEPHINE MACKENZIE
ANNA MULLEN
CINDY DAVIS
ANDREW REEDER
Production
KARINA YOUNG, Art Director FOREST RHODES, Production Assistant, IT
SAMANTHA GORMAN, Graphic Artist
certified farmers market. Market Manager Annika Knoppel can be reached at 951-234-1314 or email anzafarmersmarket@gmail.com
Anza Community Hall Swap Meet - Every 1st and 3rd Saturday of the month. $15 for a spot with membership. $18 for a spot without membership. Vendors wanted. The hall is located at 56630 SR 371 in Anza. See membership information under “Organizations.”
Mobile Food Pantry – Anza Electric Cooperative and F.I.N.D. Food Bank offers a free mobile food pantry the second Saturday of every month at the AEC office, 58470 SR 371, from 10:30-11:30 a.m. All are welcome. Cal-Fresh application assistance and free community health services are also available. Bring your own reusable bags to take food home. Volunteers welcome. For more information, contact the AEC office at 951763-4333.
Friends of Anza Valley Community Library – Anza Valley Community Library is located at Hamilton High School, 57430 Mitchell Road. The library is open to the public, but not during school hours. Hours are 4-7 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m.4 p.m. Saturday and 12-4 p.m. on Sunday. Closed Monday through Wednesday.
Hamilton High School – Find out what is happening using Hamilton’s online calendar at www.hamiltonbobcats.net/apps/ events/calendar.
Hamilton Museum – 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Open Wednesdays and Saturdays at 39991 Contreras Road in Anza. For more information, call 951-763-1350 or visit www. hamiltonmuseum.org. Find them on Facebook at “HamiltonMuseum-and-Ranch-Foundation.”
Backcountry Horsemen Redshank Riders – Meetings on the second Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. Locations change, so please contact Mike by email at stumblinl55@gmail.com or by calling 951-760-9255.
Health, exercise, resources and recovery meetings
Fit after 50 – 10:30-11:30 a.m. Tuesday and Friday mornings at Anza Community Hall. Free. Wear comfortable clothes and supportive shoes. Call or text instructor Teresa Hoehn at 951751-1462 for more information.
Narcotics Anonymous Meeting – 6 p.m. Every Tuesday at Shepherd of The Valley Church, 56095 Pena Road in Anza. Open participation.
Veterans’ Gathering Mondays – 9-11 a.m. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 39075 Contreras Road in Anza. Men and women veterans come to share and help each other deal with posttraumatic stress disorder and other difficulties. Call John Sheehan at 951-923-6153. If you need an advocate to help with VA benefits, call Ronnie Imel at 951-659-9884.
The Most Excellent Way – A Christ-centered recovery program for all kinds of addiction meets once a week on Fridays from 6-8 p.m. Program is court approved. The group meets at Valley Gospel
Chapel, located at 43275 Chapman Road, Anza.
AA Men’s Meeting – 7 p.m. Meetings take place Thursdays at 39551 Kirby Road in Anza, south of SR 371.
Alcoholics Anonymous – 8 p.m. Wednesday evenings at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 56095 Pena Road in Anza. For more information, call 951763-4226.
Bereaved Parents of the USA – The Aguanga-Anza Chapter of BPUSA will hold its meetings at 6 p.m. on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month at 49109 Lakeshore Blvd. in Aguanga. For more information, contact chapter leader Linda Hardee at 951-551-2826.
Free Mobile Health Clinic –Open every third Wednesday of the month from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. No appointment is needed. Uninsured may only be seen in the Anza Community Hall’s parking lot or inside the hall.
Medication Assistance and Treatment for Opioid Dependence – Get treatment for heroin addiction. Transportation to the clinic is provided. For more information, contact Borrego Health’s Anza Community Health Center, 58581 SR 371, Anza. For more information, 951-763-4759.
Food ministries
Living Hope Christian Fellowship Community Dinner – Dinners at 1 p.m. are held the last Sunday of the month at the Anza Community Hall. All are welcome. Donations of time, money, etc. are always welcome.
Food for the Faithful – 8 a.m. The food bank hands out food the last Friday of the month until the food is gone. The clothes closet will be open too. Emergency food handed out as needed at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. FFF is a nondenominational nonprofit. All in need are welcome; call Esther Barragan at 951-763-5636.
Bible studies
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Anza’s Sunday Sacrament is at 10 a.m.; Sunday School is 11 a.m. Priesthood/Relief Society meets at noon; Wednesday, Boy Scouts gathers 6 p.m. and Youth Night is 7 p.m. For more information, call Ruiz at 951-445-7180 or Nathan at 760-399-0727. The Wednesday Genealogy/Family History Class, 5-8 p.m., is open to the public at 39075 Contreras Road in Anza.
Native Lighthouse Fellowship
– 10 a.m. The group meets the first Saturday of the month, and breakfast is served. All are welcome to fellowship together at the “Tribal Hall” below the casino in Anza. For more information, call Nella Heredia at 951-7630856.
Living Hope Bible Study
8-10 a.m. Tuesdays at Living Hope Christian Fellowship, 58050 Hwy 371, Anza. All are welcome. For more information, call Pastor Kevin at 951-763-1111.
Anza RV Clubhouse – 7 p.m., the second Wednesday of the Month, Pastor Kevin officiates at 41560 Terwilliger Road in Anza.
Monthly Christian Men’s
Breakfast – 9 a.m. Breakfast takes place the 4th Saturday of each month and rotates to different locations. Contact Jeff Crawley at 951-763-1257 for more information. Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church – 10 a.m. Weekly Wednesday Bible study takes place at 56095 Pena Road in Anza. Call 951-763-4226 for more information.
Valley Gospel Chapel – 7 a.m. Saturday Men’s Study meets weekly with breakfast usually served at 43275 Chapman Road in the Terwilliger area of Anza. For more information, call 951763-4622.
Anza First Southern Baptist Church – Begin your week with Sunday School for all ages at 9 a.m., followed by Sunday morning worship at 10:30 a.m. On Sunday nights, the church has prayer on the 1st and 4th Sundays from 6-7 p.m. and Bible study on the 2nd and 3rd Sundays from 6-8 p.m. On Monday evenings, from 6-8 p.m., the youth group (6 to 12 grade) meets for games and Bible study. Anza Baptist Church also offers Men’s and Women’s Ministries, a Homeschool Support Group, Summer Vacation Bible School and a Seniors’ Ministry. The church office is open Wednesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The church is located at 39200 Rolling Hills Road in Anza. For more information, contact the church at 951-763-4937 or visit www.anzabaptistchurch.com.
Clubs Anza Valley VFW Post 1873, Capt. John Francis Drivick III Post – The Ladies’ and Men’s Auxiliaries are located at 59011 Bailey Road in Anza. Mail P.O. Box 390433. Request monthly newsletter and or weekly menu by email at vfw1873anzaca@ gmail.com. For more information, call 951-763-4439 or visit http:// vfw1873.org.
High Country 4-H Club – 4 p.m. Meetings are on the third Tuesday of the month, except February, at Anza Community Hall. 4-H Club is for youth 5 to 19 years old offering a variety of projects. High Country 4-H Club is open to children living in the Anza, Aguanga and surrounding areas. For more information, call Allison Renck at 951-663-5452.
Anza Valley Artists Meetings – Meetings at 1 p.m. are the third Saturday of each month at various locations. Share art, ideas and participate in shows. Guest speakers are always needed. For more information, call president Rosie Grindle at 951-928-1248. Find helpful art tips at www. facebook.com/AnzaValleyArtists
Anza Quilter’s Club Meetings are held at 9:30 a.m. on the first Tuesday of each month at the Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 56095 Pena Road, Anza. For more information see our Facebook page or contact Pat Sprint at jpsprint@gmail.com or Ellen Elmore at luvtoquilt2@ gmail.com
Anza Valley Lions Club –The Anza Valley Lions Club has been reinstated and is open to
all men and women who want to work together for the betterment of the community. The group is working on securing a new venue for meetings. Meetings and events are posted on the Anza Lions Club of Anza Valley Facebook page at www.facebook. com/LionsofAnzaValley. For more information, email president Greg Sandling at President. AnzaLions@gmail.com or Chris Skinner at Secretary.AnzaLions@ gmail.com
Civil Air Patrol – Squadron 59 is looking for new members of all ages. For more information, call squadron commander Maj. Dennis Sheehan from the Anza area at 951-403-4940. To learn more and see the club’s meeting schedule, visit www.squadron59.org.
Fire Explorer Program – 6 p.m. The program meets every second, third and fourth Tuesday of the month at Fire Station 29 on SR 371 in Anza. Call 951-7635611 for information.
Anza Thimble Club – The club meets the 1st Thursday of the month at the Anza Community Hall, 43275 Chapman Road in Anza. The social hour is 11:30 a.m., and lunch is served at noon. Contact Carol Wright at 951-7632884 for more information.
Organizations Terwilliger Community Association – 6 p.m. Second Monday of the month at VFW Post 1873, 59011 Bailey Road, in Anza. Potluck dinner open to all. For more information, call Tonie Ford at 951-763-4560.
Anza Community Hall – 7 p.m. General membership meetings are held the fourth Thursday of the month. Single memberships are $30 and include discounts to events for one person and 1 vote in elections and meetings. Family memberships are $50 and include discounts for a family up to 5 members and 1 vote in elections and meetings. Business memberships are $50 and allows an employer to receive discounts for up to 5 people, including themselves, and includes 1 vote on elections and meetings. No government funds are allocated for the Hall, which pays its bills through memberships and swap meets. Mail membership to: Anza Community Building Inc. at P.O. Box 390091, Anza, CA 92539. The hall is located at 56630 Hwy 371 in Anza. For more information, call 951-282-4267 or email achageneral@gmail.com or visit www.anzacommunitybuilding. org
Anza Civic Improvement League – 9 a.m. meets the first Saturday of each month at the Little Red Schoolhouse. The league maintains Minor Park and the Little Red School House, which are both available to rent for events. No government funds are allowed; the membership pays the bills – $10 a person, $18 family or $35 business membership. For more information, visit www. anzacivic.org.
ANZA VALLEY OUTLOOK
Sheriff’s Blotter
The Sheriff’s Blotter enables residents to know what criminal activity is occurring in their communities.
Diane Sieker Staff Writer
The Anza Valley Outlook
Sheriff’s Blotter is a list of calls that allows residents to see what law enforcement activity is occurring in their communities.
The Sheriff’s Blotter data is obtained from the official calls for service records kept by the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department. However, calls where the release of the information could cause harm to an individual or jeopardize the investigation of a criminal case are excluded.
All calls listed are for service within the Sheriff’s Department jurisdiction in the unincorporated areas of Anza, Lake Riverside Estates, Cahuilla and Aguanga from Nov. 22 through Nov. 29. Nov. 22
Unknown trouble - address undefined, Anza, handled by deputy Area check - 4900 block Shoshone Ct., Lake Riverside, handled by deputy
Follow-up - address withheld, Anza, handled by deputy
for meetings and events. ACIL members may credit 100% of their current membership dues toward rental fees during the same time period.
Open board meetings are held at the Little Red Schoolhouse on the first Saturday of the month at 9 a.m., and the public is invited to attend.
Minor Park and the Little Red Schoolhouse are located at SR 371 at Contreras Road in Anza.
For more information on ACIL events, please visit them on Facebook at https:// www.facebook.com/ AnzaCivicImprovementLeague or on the web at http://anzacivic. org. They may be contacted by email at Anzacivic@gmail.com Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia. com
Vandalism - address undefined, Anza, report taken
Vicious dog - address undefined, Anza, handled by deputy Nov. 23
Alarm call - 5600 block St. Hwy. 371, Anza, handled by deputy
Trespassing - 5600 block St. Hwy. 371, Anza, handled by deputy
Check the welfare - 4900 block
Shoshone Ct., Lake Riverside, handled by deputy Public assist - 4900 block Shoshone Ct., Lake Riverside, handled by deputy
Check the welfare - 5300 block St. Hwy. 371, Anza, handled by deputy
Suspicious vehicle - address undefined, Anza, handled by deputy
Vandalism - 5300 block Pony
Trl., Anza, report taken
Nov. 25
Suspicious circumstance5900 block Bailey Rd., Cahuilla, handled by deputy Prowler - 5800 block Mica Rd., Anza, handled by deputy
Vehicle theft - address undefined, Anza, report taken
Area check - address undefined, Anza, handled by deputy
Vehicle code violation - 5900 block Patrick Wy./Table Mountain Rd., Anza, handled by deputy
Public assist - address undefined, Anza, handled by deputy
Suspicious person - address undefined, Anza, handled by deputy
Assist other department - 4700 block Kimberly Ann Dr., Aguanga, handled by deputy
Suspicious circumstance4900 block Shoshone Ct., Lake Riverside, handled by deputy 911 call - 4900 block Shoshone Ct., Lake Riverside, handled by deputy Nov. 26
Check the welfare - 4900 block Shoshone Ct., Lake Riverside, handled by deputy 911 hangup from cellphone -
5600 block Dickson Wy., Anza, handled by deputy
Area check - 4900 block Shoshone Ct., Lake Riverside, handled by deputy
Suspicious circumstance - 5200 block Elder Creek Rd., Anza, handled by deputy
Check the welfare - 4900 block Trotter Ln., Lake Riverside, handled by deputy Public disturbance - 5500 block Mitchell Rd., Anza, handled by deputy Burglary - 5300 block St. Hwy. 371, Anza, arrest made 911 call - 4900 block Shoshone Ct., Lake Riverside, handled by deputy
Suspicious circumstance - 5200 block Elder Creek Rd., Anza, handled by deputy Nov. 27
Shots fired - 5400 block Cave Rock Rd., Anza, handled by deputy Miscellaneous criminal - 5700 block Mitchell Rd., Anza, handled by deputy
Check the welfare - 4900 block Shoshone Ct., Lake Riverside, handled by deputy Miscellaneous criminal -
4900 block Shoshone Ct., Lake Riverside, handled by deputy Suspicious circumstance - 5400 block Cave Rock Rd., Anza, handled by deputy Nov. 28
Check the welfare - 4900 block Shoshone Ct., Lake Riverside, handled by deputy Nov. 29
Fraud - 4800 block Roan Wy., Lake Riverside, handled by deputy Civil dispute - 5200 block Cahuilla Rd., Cahuilla, handled by deputy Burglary - 5300 block Pony Trl., Anza, report taken No assumption of criminal guilt or affiliation should be drawn from the content provided in the Sheriff’s Blotter.
Residents with information regarding any crimes are encouraged to contact the Hemet Sheriff’s Station at 951-791-3400. Criminal activity can also be reported through the We-Tip Crime Reporting Hotline, 909-987-5005 or https://wetip.com.
Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia. com
Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo
Gingerbread houses will be on display at ACIL’S Cookies with Santa Saturday, Dec. 14 at the Little Red Schoolhouse in Anza.
SANTA from page D-1
Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo
Lenticular clouds hover over Anza mountains
Diane Sieker Staff Writer
Unusual, oddly shaped clouds have been sighted recently over the mountains surrounding the Anza Valley. Beautiful, yet eerie, these strange formations are called lenticular clouds.
According to the U.S. National Weather Service in San Diego, lenticular clouds are common during days when strong winds are oriented roughly perpendicular to a mountain range. When conditions are just right, the airflow bows upward above the mountain crests, cooling and condensing to form clouds, usually just a bit downwind of the highest ridge. This development is often referred to as a “mountain wave,” and the near-perfect oscillation of the airflow carves out these smooth cloud formations.
Lenticular clouds owe their unusual name to the Latin word “lenticularis,” meaning lentilshaped. They are stationary clouds that form mostly in the troposphere and are often comparable in appearance to a lens or saucer.
“Lenticular clouds indicate great instability in that layer of the atmosphere and form in areas of mountain waves. Like ocean waves, these waves of air bouncing over the mountains are anything but stable,” Matt Makens said in a 2014 article, Lenticular Clouds: Calm in Appearance, Dangerous in Reality. “Mountain waves can be present with or without clouds. If you see lenticular clouds - standing wave clouds - you have visual proof the air above is very turbulent. Although pretty, those clouds are mean.”
Several local Anza Valley residents shared these images they captured during the last weeks of November.
Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia.com
Cindy Chambers captures this surreal image of lenticular clouds forming over the hills near Anza. Anza Valley Outlook/Courtesy photos
Annika Knöppel snaps a photo of lenticular clouds forming over nearby mountains.
Cindy Chambers takes a picture of lenticular clouds descending upon the hills in Garner Valley.
Christi Pomije takes a photo of lenticular clouds developing near the Anza Valley.
Jennifer Deiter photographs lenticular clouds developing over Cahuilla Mountain.
Anza resident Erinne Roscoe captures this image of lenticular clouds suspended over local mountains.
Erinne Roscoe photographs a large lenticular cloud over sunlit hills.
Erinne Roscoe snaps lenticular clouds under fluffy white high clouds over the Anza Valley.
Rebecca Stewart is fortunate to have snapped these lenticular clouds at sunset.
Sarah Knowlton captures this picture of a lenticular cloud over the mountains near Anza.
Honor the aged
Zachary Elliott Special to Valley News
I was walking through a busy crowd when an elderly lady cut in front of me. My first instinct was to quickly cut around her because she was walking very slowly. The only problem was, if I had done that, I might have brushed against her, potentially knocking her over and cutting her off.
Okay, full transparency. Please don’t judge me, but I thought about it. I was busy, I needed to get where I was going, and I really hate walking slowly. And I hate feeling like I’m behind everyone. It was a real-life dilemma for me.
Just as I was about to pass her, I felt a tug on my heart and a voice in my head. It said, “Zac, honor
NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: YOLANDA ALVARADO Case No. PRIN2401378 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of YOLANDA ALVARADO A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by DIANA DIAZ in the Superior Court of California, County of RIVERSIDE. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that DIANA DIAZ be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.
THE PETITION requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court.
THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.)
The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.
A HEARING on the petition will be held on: Dec. 17, 2024 at 8:45 AM in Dept. No. PS3 located at 3255 E. Tahquitz Cyn Way, PALM SPRINGS, CA 92262.
IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.
IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor.
You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court
If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for petitioner: AVEDIS BEKHLOYAN ESQ, SBN322983, CARPENTER ; ZUCKERMAN, 8827 W. OLYMPIC BLVD, BEVERLY HILLS CA 90211-3613 CN111957 ALVARADO LEGAL# 4274 PUBLISHED: November 29, December 6, 13, 2024
4273
PUBLISHED: November 29, December 6, 13, 2024
SUMMONS
cannot pay the filing fee, ask the court clerk for a fee waiver form. If you do not file your response on time, you may lose the case by default, and your wages, money, and property may be taken without further warning from the court. There are other legal requirements. You may want to call an attorney right away. If you do not know an attorney, you may want to call an attorney referral service. If you cannot afford an attorney, you may be eligible for free legal services from a nonprofit legal services program. You can locate these nonprofit groups at the California Legal Services website (https://www.calbar. ca.gov/Public/Need-Legal-Help/Free-Legal-Help), or by contacting your local court or county bar association. NOTE: The court has a statutory lien for waived fees and costs on any settlement or arbitration award of $10,000 or more in a
the aged. She deserves it, and one day, you will be there. Be patient and show her kindness.”
So that’s what I did. I stayed behind her, waiting patiently for her to get where she was going. I gave her the honor she deserved.
When it comes to the elderly, the Bible teaches us to “Stand up in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly and revere your God. I am the Lord.”
(Leviticus 19:32)
When we honor our elders, we show our reverence toward God. Honor is the gift God would have us bestow on the aged.
Our culture gives so much attention to the young and
beautiful, the rich and famous.
This focus can become so intense that we often overlook older people and think they have nothing to offer. Nothing could be further from the truth. We tend to forget the wealth of knowledge our parents, grandparents, and greatgrandparents have to share. They’ve lived longer than Siri, Alexa, and Google.
They have lived real lives, full of failures and successes, experiencing the full circle of sadness turned to joy. Something that AI never has and never will.
Age is a gift from God. We should honor all who have been
NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: LOREN OLIVER PFAUTZ Case No. RIP090015 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of LOREN OLIVER PFAUTZ aka LOREN O. PFAUTZ aka LOREN PFAUTZ A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by BUCK ROSS PFAUTZ in the Superior Court of California, County of RIVERSIDE. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that BUCK ROSS PFAUTZ be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. THE PETITION requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court. THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without
should not grant the authority. A HEARING on the petition will be held in the court as follows: DATE: 12/19/2024 TIME: 8:30 AM Dept: 11 Address of court: 4050 Main Street, Riverside, CA 92501, Riverside Historic Courthouse- Probate Division IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2)
the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A HEARING on the petition will be held in the court as follows: DATE: 12/30/24 TIME: 8:45 AM Dept: PS3 Located at 3255 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262 IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.
IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code,
granted that gift. And as we honor them, we should take time to see what we can learn from them. For me, I learned to be more patient. Patience and honor are just two of the many lessons we can gain when we slow down and appreciate the wisdom of those who have come before us. What will you learn?
Zachary Elliott is the lead pastor of Fusion Christian Church in Temecula. For more information, visit http://www. fusionchristianchurch.com, http:// www.encouragementtoday.tv or find them on Instagram.
WRESTLING from page D-1
his honor.
“This is Skyy’s third season wrestling and she’s been working hard to be where she is today,” said her mother April Vollan. “She
was awarded a beautiful plaque presented by the parents of Cpl. Hunter Lopez. This was her first tournament of her junior year and the first time she won a first place at a tournament, so she was very honored and very excited about her accomplishments. She had some very tough opponents.”
Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia. com
Cpl. Hunter Lopez’s parents Herman Lopez, left, and Alicia Lopez, first place winner Hamilton High School junior Skyy Vollan, second place winner Lexi Sanchez from Shadow Hills High School, third place winner Audrey Matthews from Santa Rosa Academy and fourth place winner Mariana Ibarra from Coachella Valley High School pose for group pictures at the Second Annual Cpl. Hunter Lopez Memorial Tournament of Warriors wrestling competition at Shadow Hills High School in Indio Tuesday, Nov. 26. Anza Valley Outlook/Courtesy photo
CA 92220 Legal Description: See attached legal description taken from original Deed of Trust. NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE Amount of unpaid balance and other charges: $3,374,296.28 The property heretofore is being sold “as is.” The street
AND TO ALL OIL, GAS, MINERALS, AND HYDROCARBON RIGHTS LYING BELOW A DEPTH OF 500 FEET, WITHOUT THE RIGHT OF SURFACE ENTRY, AS RESERVED BY THE CORPORATION OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE SAN BERNARDINO, CALIFORNIA STAKE, THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS, A CALIFORNIA CORPORATION. PARCEL 2: EASEMENTS AND RIGHTS OF OWNERS AS SET FORTH IN THAT CERTAIN DECLARATION OF COVENANTS, CONDITIONS, RESTRICTIONS AND RESERVATION OF EASEMENTS FOR THE LAKES, RECORDED ON OCTOBER 23, 2006, AS INSTRUMENT NO. 2006-0777729, OF OFFICIAL RECORDS, AND INCLUDING ANY AMENDMENTS THERETO, THAT CERTAIN NOTICE OF ADDITION, RECORDED ON SEPTEMBER 20, 2011, AS INSTRUMENT NO. 2011-0433756, AND ANY AMENDMENTS THERETO, THAT CERTAIN SUPPLEMENTAL DECLARATION OF COVENANTS, CONDITIONS AND RESTRICTIONS, RECORDED ON MAY 22, 2015, AS INSTRUMENT NO. 2015-0215031, AND ANY AMENDMENTS THERETO, THAT CERTAIN DECLARATION OF SOLAR ENERGY COVENANTS, CONDITIONS AND RESTRICTIONS FOR THE LAKES, RECORDED ON MAY 22, 2015, AS INSTRUMENT NO. 20150215032, OF OFFICIAL RECORDS, AND ANY AMENDMENTS THERETO, ALL IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY RECORDER OF RIVERSIDE COUNTY. APN:364-360-029 TS #: 5428 C478-01480-01 Published: 11/29/24, 12/06/24, 12/13/24
