The Bundy Canyon Christian School in Wildomar, founded in 1981 and serving approximately 175 students from grades K through 8th, recently launched a fundraising campaign on GoFundMe and Facebook. The school is seeking financial support to upgrade its facilities and school grounds at 23411 Bundy Canyon Road.
Completion expected in June or July
Tony
Ault Staff Writer
This year’s Ramona Outdoor Play Artistic Director Duane Minard will appear in a special presentation by the Hemet Heritage Foundation in Hemet on Monday, March 10.
Duane Minard will lead the presentation with “Ramona 2025” and what is happening at the Ramona Bowl Amphitheater in Hemet and will look ahead in transitioning into the “Next One Hundred Years.”
recognized as a 2025 Model Continuation High School
San Jacinto Unified School District announced that Mountain View High School (MVHS) has been named a 2025 Model Continuation High School. The announcement was made in a California Department of Education News Release on Feb. 19 in which State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond announced 74 schools throughout the state. Mountain View High was one of only four schools in Riverside County to receive the recognition.
Designed by T.Y. Lin International, the amphitheater is being constructed by Optima RPM Inc. and Southstar Engineering.
The $7,171,702 project was approved by the Menifee City Council last year and is expected to be completed sometime in June or July of this year. depending on the
weather and material availability.
The design of the new amphitheater will include space for entertainers and lighting for evening and nighttime events.
The city of Menifee is currently asking community members what they would like to see on stage in the new amphitheater in the years to come. Comments on the Amphitheater’s future venues can be made on the Menifee City website at https://www. cityofmenifee.us/1014/CentralPark-Amphitheater-Project. Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com
Scholarship recipients are congratulated by Black Voices of the Valley board members, State Assemblyman Corey Jackson and members of the Hemet and San Jacinto city councils at the 4th annual Night of Black Excellence, Feb. 22. Valley News/Vaniety Tenorio/V6 Photography
Diane A. Rhodes Contributor
Black Voices of the Valley hosted its 4th annual Night of Black Excellence with a gala at the Soboba Casino Resort Event Center in San Jacinto on Feb. 22. Guests included representatives from Hemet and San Jacinto city council offices as well as local dignitaries. But the stars of the night were the recipients of this year’s awards.
BVOV Director Stephanie Bruce welcomed the sold-out crowd to the event which also serves as a Black History Month celebration and fundraiser. High school seniors were recognized for their hard work and academic excellence. Those receiving scholarships were Daijha Williams, Kailei Burnet, Zoe Dagen, Kaycia
Carrida, and Essence Herd.
San Jacinto Leadership Academy senior Kaylin McWhorter was honored with the Youth Leadership Award. Bruce said this award honors an exceptional young individual who demonstrates outstanding leadership, initiative, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their community. “It celebrates the next generation of leaders who inspire change and exemplify the values of service, innovation, and resilience,” she said.
Kaylin accepted the award with a powerful speech that began, “Tonight feels like a dream. Not long ago, I wasn’t sure this moment would come. The world doesn’t always make space for girls like me — girls with deep brown skin and big dreams. Girls who fight not just to succeed, but to be seen.”
The 18-year-old has attended
SJLA since she was in sixth grade and said it is a place where she not only grew academically but found her voice as an advocate.
Kaylin is in the top 10 percent of her graduating class with a 4.4 GPA and has already been accepted into her two dream schools: Howard University and UC, Berkeley. She plans to major in political science with an emphasis on African American studies.
Julie Reeder Publisher
A 20-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of arson and possession of explosive devices after allegedly setting a brush fire and threatening a park ranger in DeLuz, authorities said.
The San Diego County Sheriff’s Department reported that deputies from the Fallbrook Sheriff’s Substation responded to a brush fire near the Santa Margarita River Trail Preserve in De Luz just before 11:30 a.m. on Friday, February 28. Upon arrival, a park ranger identified a man who had allegedly started the fire and threatened the ranger with a knife.
Deputies confronted the suspect, later identified as Neema Ahmadpour, who was reportedly uncooperative and combative. Authorities said force was used to take him into custody.
Firefighters from Calfire/San Diego County Fire and the North County Fire Protection District arrived on the scene to contain the blaze. According to Calfire, the fire burned approximately half an acre before being extinguished. According to the Sheriff’s Dept. it was contained at about one acre. No structures were threatened. Sheriff deputies also used fire extinguishers to attempt to contain the fire before fire personnel arrived.
During a search of Ahmadpour’s vehicle, deputies discovered several Molotov cocktails that were ready for use. Calfire arson investigators joined the case and, after collecting evidence, determined Ahmadpour was possibly linked to at least two prior brush fires in San Diego County.
“My heart is set on becoming a civil rights attorney, using my voice to champion justice and ensure that every story, especially those often silenced, is heard,” she said. “Creating my school’s first Black Student Union taught me that advocacy is born from love — love for community, culture, and progress. I learned that even see EXCELLENCE, page A-2 see ARSONIST, page A-4
The Bundy Canyon Christian School in Wildomar, founded in 1981 and serving approximately 175 students from grades K through 8th, recently launched a fundra ising campaign on GoFundMe and Facebook. The school is seeking financial support to upgrade its facilities and school grounds at 23411 Bundy Canyon Road.
Darla Montgomery, the financial support organizer for the private Christian school, said on
the smallest ripple of change can grow into a wave when fueled by passion and purpose.”
She said she is driven by the weight of possibility — the understanding that her education isn’t just for her but for those who came before her and those who will come after.
“Knowledge is a legacy, and I want to use mine to break barriers and build bridges,” Kaylin said. “I’ve learned that staying true to myself is one of the most powerful things I can do. There were times I felt out of place like I had to shrink parts of who I am to fit in. But the moment I started embracing my voice, my culture, and my story, I found strength I didn’t know I had. I realized that my uniqueness is my superpower — that being authentically myself not only empowers me but inspires others to do the same. It taught me that real change starts when we show up as our whole, unapologetic selves, ready to take up space and make an impact.”
And with aspirations to become a U.S. Senator one day, Kaylin said, “And as long as I have breath, I will never stop fighting until every Black girl knows this truth: We are the legacy. We are the future. And we are just getting started.”
San Jacinto Leadership Academy Principal Michael Luna said, “Kaylin McWhorter is one of SJLA’s most prominent leaders. She founded and is currently President of SJLA’s Black Student Union. She has partnered with other cadets to support nonprofit actions in the San Jacinto community.
As a teacher, assistant principal, and now principal of Kaylin McWhorter, I can say that she is one of the most well-rounded cadets to come through the San Jacinto Leadership Academy. She will be leaving a lasting legacy for many cadets to emulate.”
the GoFundMe page to family and friends, “For years, Bundy Canyon Christian School has been a place where children grow academically and spiritually in a nurturing, nature-filled environment. Our dedicated teachers create a safe, loving space where students thrive.”
She said the support is needed to provide essential updates to maintain and improve the school. The support needed includes: Repairing playground equipment and the creek bridge; updating class-
rooms, bathrooms, and common areas: fresh paint and repairs on the classroom and Kidz Klub including new carpet and indoor lighting; and beautifying the campus by refurbishing signs, improving outside lighting, repairing and repainting buildings.
She said, “We strive to keep tuition low, but these improvements are crucial. Your donation—big or small—will help us keep Bundy Canyon a welcoming place for future generations. Please consider
San Jacinto Leadership Academy Counselor Priscilla Grijalva, left, and Assemblyman Corey Jackson, center, congratulate Lloyd Sheppard for receiving a “Breaking Barriers” award at BVOV’s 4th annual Night of Black Excellence.
This year’s Phoenix Award was presented to Makhi McClure.
Bruce said, “It recognizes those who embody the spirit of renewal and perseverance, turning challenges into opportunities to uplift and inspire others.”
Two recipients of the “It Takes a Village” award were Matthew Maita and Walter Johnson for their various contributions, not
giving through our GoFundMe page and sharing this message.”
Bundy Canyon Christian School is a family-owned and operated nonprofit school that provides a farm-like atmosphere, complete with real farm animals and room to run, play, and explore nature.
Children are taught that they can have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and are educated with a God-centered curriculum.
Go to the Bundy Canyon Christian School GoFundMe page at
https://www.gofundme.com/f/ help-improve-bundy-canyonchristian-school to donate. If a donation receipt is required, message Darla Montgomery via the GoFundMe page. The church is located at 23510 Oak Circle Drive in Wildomar, California 92595. For more information, call 951674-1254, fax 951-674-2444, or email bcccswlkr@cs.com. Visit https://mybccs.org to learn more about the school.
Valley News/Vaniety Tenorio/V6 Photography photos
only to the community but also to themselves and their families. “It takes a village to raise our children, and these are great people in the community that help with that effort by providing a service for the community free of charge or collaborating with community events for our youth,” Bruce said.
The “People’s Choice” award is given to someone who is nominat-
ed by and voted for by residents of the San Jacinto Valley, showcasing the community’s recognition and support for excellence. This year, Flawless Catering was chosen as Black Business of the Year, and Raymond Mills was also honored.
A highlight of the annual event is the celebration of those in the San Jacinto Valley who are recognized for being the first Black person to hold a significant position in the community. This year’s “Breaking Barriers” recipients are Patricia Scott, who is the
new Hemet/San Jacinto Valley Chamber of Commerce Chair; Kevin Saunders, who is now the Hemet/San Jacinto Chamber of Commerce Executive Director; Lloyd Sheppard, who was the first Black principal at the San Jacinto Leadership Academy and is now San Jacinto High School’s principal; and Tylisha Julienne, who was recently elected as treasurer for the City of San Jacinto. For more information, www. blackvoicesofthevalley.org.
Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians
Special to Valley News
Native American youth from around the country were invited to two back-to-back events and Soboba Tribal TANF made sure interested members took full advantage of these opportunities. The UNITY Midyear Conference was held Feb. 7-9 in Phoenix and the 2025 NCAI Native Youth Leadership Summit took place from Feb. 10-13 in Washington, D.C.
More than 700 Native American and Alaska Native youth, aged 12-24, and advisors gathered for the 2025 UNITY Midyear Conference, which provided three days of professional leadership development, highlighting community service and advocacy for Indigenous communities.
A variety of professional development workshops and breakout sessions, as well as extracurricular activities that included the sharing of culture, music, and art, were available for youth to continuously engage with one another. The focus of the midyear conference was “Digitizing youth voices, inspiring Indigenous stories.”
UNITY (United National Indian Tribal Youth) is excited to host several speakers and presenters that are passionate in supporting community service and advocacy throughout Native Country. Through a variety of programmatic activities, team building, and collaboration, our Native youth leaders will actively engage with one another, brainstorming and building on new ideas to create change within their respective communities.
TANF PRC Site Manager
Harold Arres, Senior Program Specialist Annalisa Tucker, and Transportation Coordinator Nancy Gallegos accompanied nine youths, aged 12-17, from the Soboba program to Phoenix. Tucker said she enjoyed watching youth who hadn’t attended a conference before coming out of their shell and really absorbing what was being taught.
“I hope the experience showed them the importance of keeping their culture alive and to support
and learn from other Native communities,” she said.
Aniyah Brittian, 13, attended sessions about mental health, education, Native identities and storytelling. “I learned the importance of speaking up and being proud of who I am.”
The high school freshman said she enjoyed learning about the different Native American traditions that other Tribes have.
Sixth-grader Nayeli Brittian also attended a session that focused on mental health. Watching people from other Tribes dancing is what she liked best about the conference.
Shania Guacheno participated
in workshops about mental health, education, drug/substance abuse education and storytelling.
“I learned not to use drugs,” said Shania, 13. “I liked that I got to watch and learn other Tribes’ traditions.”
The purpose of the Native Youth Leadership Summit in Washington, DC is to bring Native youth leaders together by providing interactive learning sessions to strengthen leadership abilities. As the future leaders of Indian Country and defenders of Tribal sovereignty, participants engage in the larger conversation of protecting and maintaining Tribal sovereignty through a youth perspective.
We create the WOW factor
o ering
Arres, Program Specialist Mayra Campos, and TANF Riverside Site Manager Angela Diaz were joined by four youths, aged 15-19, at the Native Youth Leadership Summit.
Arres said a highlight of the conference for him was witnessing the youth speak to John E. Echohawk about the educational needs for Tribal nations.
Echohawk (Pawnee) is the Executive Director of the Native American Rights Fund. He was the first graduate of the University of New Mexico’s special program to train Indian lawyers and was a founding member of the American Indian Law Students Association while in law school. He has been with NARF since its inception in 1970, having served continuously
as Executive Director since 1977. Echohawk has been recognized as one of the 100 most influential lawyers in America by the National Law Journal and has received numerous service awards and other recognitions for his leadership in the Indian law field including the 2023 Thurgood Marshall Award from the American Bar Association.
Arres said he hopes the youth who attended the summit learned how to advocate for themselves and why that is so important. He was glad to be given the opportunity of some sightseeing when they had some free time so they could explore some of the monuments
see SOBOBA, page A-10
ARSONIST from page A-1 – No bail
Ahmadpour was arrested on multiple felony charges, including arson, possession of explosive devices, and violently resisting arrest. He was booked into the Vista Detention Facility with a bail enhancement. Court records indicate that he faces the following charges:
2800.2(A) VC – Evading a peace officer with disregard for safety (Felony) – No bail
242 PC – Battery (Misdemeanor) – No bail 69 PC – Obstructing or resisting an executive officer (Felony) – Bail: $20,000
451(C) PC – Arson of forest land (Felony) – Bail: $750,000
454(A)(2) PC – Arson committed during a declared state of emergency (Felony) – No bail
16460(A)(5) PC – Possession of a destructive device (Felony) – No bail
18715(A)(1) PC – Possession of an explosive device in a public place (Felony) – No bail
His arraignment is scheduled for March 4 at the North County Vista Courthouse.
Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine if Ahmadpour is connected to additional fires in the region.
451.1(A)(5) PC – Aggravated arson with prior conviction or special circumstances (Felony) – No bail
453(A) PC – Possession of arson materials or devices (Felony)
Any one with information regarding the case is urged to contact the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department or Crime Stoppers. Press release from the San Diego County
Department and
were used as sources for
Austin Alexander
All Star Physical Therapy
The baseball season has begun. For many, that means coming off a nice winter break from Little League, Pony, high school, and travel ball. It’s time to get new gloves, cleats, belts, pants, and socks. Probably best to prepare to be at the fields three to four days a week. And maybe a visit to urgent care?
Throwing is one of the fastest human movements achievable. With the remarkable speed, injury can almost seem inevitable. Recent studies have found that up to 50% of young baseball or softball players will report either shoulder or elbow pain during their season. Injury rates continue to climb in young throwers, but this does not have to be the case.
Shoulder injuries can appear throughout multiple structures of the shoulder. It can come from your rotator cuff muscles, the local power producers. The demand for throwing faster and more often can lead to overwhelming the power producers of the shoulder.
For many young throwers this
may mean a sudden “pop” followed by pain. For others it is a gradual increase or persistence of pain in the side or back of the shoulder. Deeper and more vague shoulder pain can sometimes indicate damage to the labrum, a tissue meant to hold the shoulder stable in its socket, or even the growth plate.
For elbow pain, the same is true as multiple structures may be involved. The one that most
are concerned and aware of is the UCL, known to many as the “Tommy John” ligament. This usually presents as a sudden “pop” on the inside part of the elbow followed by pain and occasionally feeling like the hand is asleep.
When pain is on the outside or back of the elbow, there can also be growth plate injuries (often called “Little League Elbow”), issues with blood flow to the bones, or small bone fragments loose in the
elbow. Like the issues of the shoulder, ignoring these presentations can lead to much further damage. For both the shoulder and elbow injuries, the culprits are usually the same: Too much throwing, improper balance of muscles, and poor mechanics. So, what can you do to help your young thrower avoid injury this season?
Here are some quick tips: do not play through the pain, follow pitch count recommendations for all throwing regardless of playing for multiple teams or in multiple leagues, play multiple sports and take time off from throwing (current recommendation is four months a year), train shoulder muscles (I recommend the “Thrower’s Ten” program), and work with a mechanics expert or pitching coach to reduce stress on the arm.
If there is pain or has been pain in the past, I highly recommend being seen by a physical therapist. We will thoroughly evaluate not just the affected shoulder and elbow, but the entire movement system. Most throwers are placing way too much stress on their arm due to additional faults in
Frank Brines, ARS Master Rosarian Contributor
Weather Depending on your location—or more specifically, that of your garden—you may have experienced that gardens in the same general vicinity may have very different micro-climates. According to AccuWeather, the first half of March will likely be above-average temperatures with some chance of showers here and there. This week you can expect a few days of Santa Ana winds and high temperatures. I don’t think you need to worry about frost, although the average date for the last frost date is March 15.
After pruning
First, make sure the garden is free of leftover debris and dispose of that in the green garden waste bin—do NOT compost rose debris: Backyard composting doesn’t get hot enough to kill any pathogens. Second, if you didn’t do it when pruning, remove all old leaves that may be left on the bush. This cleanliness will help keep down disease. Your garden may be well on its way to success!
Clean and sharpen pruners
Depending on how many roses you have and how much pruning you have to do, your pruners may need to be sharpened. Sharp pruners make for clean cuts and the prevention of diseases. When sharpening, use a thin flat file with diamond grit material. This type allows easier sharpening for the tight spaces between the cutting
blade and bar. Try to follow the current/original bevel/angle of the sharp blade. Felco states that the angle for their pruners is 23 degrees. Keeping pruners clean can be done using >70% isopropyl alcohol, 0000 steel wool, or a small brass bristle brush to remove heavy deposits of plant “juice” which will help remove it. Lubricate the mechanism with a light oil like 3-in-One.
Spraying
If your roses experienced fungal diseases last year and you haven’t yet done so, you might think of applying a copper dormant spray soon—but only if you can be fairly certain it won’t rain for 24 hours. You can mix Horticultural Oil with the dormant spray for better adherence—but read the label to make sure you can mix different sprays. These will reduce the likelihood of early fungal and pest issues
First, read the spray label completely to ensure the proper strength of the mixture for “growing season instructions” as the new growth has begun. Second, saturate all canes and the soil surface of the entire bed. Third, keep a minimum of 2” to 4” of organic composted mulch over the entire garden surface to insulate the upper 8” to 12” of the soil zone where most rose roots feed, and to reduce evaporation and conserve water, while still providing sufficient moisture. Compost will in time help change the soil structure and also supply nutrients to build the soil for your roses over the season.
Oh, and as a note of caution: Be prepared for chili thrips as
temperatures warm up!
Feeding
Roses love food and water for the best blooms. Rule of thumb: When new growth is 2-3 inches long it is time to begin a fertilizing program. I suggest the first feeding be higher in nitrogen (N) to encourage new stem and leaf growth. In about two weeks, apply fertilizer that is higher in phosphate (P) and potassium (K) to give roots a boost at the start of the season. New information suggests that continued use of fertilizer higher in P and K will foster greater root development and lead to better growth, disease resistance and healthier plants. Look for fertilizers rated as 8-108 that include microelements for greater results. Also, you can apply worm castings (available at garden stores and nurseries).
I highly recommend organic fertilizers vs. inorganic or “chemical” ones. Organics foster better soil development, a richer, livelier, more viable community of soil organisms that break the elements into easily absorbed forms and release them slowly. They will “build” soil structure into a healthy component and when used regularly will develop a soil rich in reserve energy, allowing you to use less product with the same results.
Watering
Take time now to inspect and make any necessary repairs to your irrigation system while there is little new foliage. Then you’ll be prepared to begin a regular irrigation schedule. Drip systems are the most efficient and they avoid
their back, hips, core, or legs. The majority of the power for throwing comes from the ground, not the arm. If the rest of the body mechanics are not addressed, further injury is likely.
Once evaluated, we will create a custom exercise and hands-on treatment program to reduce pain, increase strength and power, and establish proper mechanics. This includes in-clinic and at-home training to get the athlete back to the sport as soon but safely as possible. When determined to be appropriate, we will initiate a guided return-to-throw program to allow for the arm to gradually build tolerance and reduce risk of reinjury.
This is a wonderful and exciting season, be sure to take the proper precautions with your young thrower. And come see us if you would like some professional guidance in injury treatment or prevention.
To find the nearest All Star Physical Therapy office, go to https://allstarphysicaltherapy.net/.
problems created by above-ground sprayers and sprinklers, which wastewater and can foster molds (e.g., mildew and rust). If possible, avoid any over-spray or misting applied elsewhere in your garden that may hit your roses; but if you use overhead watering systems, avoid doing so when there is any wind to avoid moisture evaporating or collecting on leaves which could result in sunburn or add to conditions favorable for fungal diseases. For best results and efficiency, schedule irrigation so it is complete before the day gets hot (preferably by mid-morning, that is, 8 am to 9 am). Avoid afternoon or evening watering to prevent excess ground moisture into night-
time. Too wet soil can lead to unhappy roots and/or fungal diseases.
Take a break at Rose Haven!
Be sure to visit the Rose Haven Heritage Garden located at 30500 Jedediah Smith Road (the cross street is Cabrillo Avenue) in Temecula, California, a 3.4-acre rose garden owned and maintained by the Temecula Valley Rose Society, a 501(c)(3) organization, supported with donations from kind people like you. (Look for the donation box when you visit!) THANK YOU SO MUCH! Also, visit the website at www. TemeculaValleyRoseSociety.org regularly for great information and a schedule of events! Spread the joy of roses!
Joe
One of the clarifiers at the Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District’s Regional Water Reclamation Facility needs an upgrade, and during the Feb. 13 EVMWD board meeting the district awarded a contract for the rehabilitation.
The 5-0 board vote on Feb. 13 approved a $1,740,955.13 contract with MISCOwater, which is based in Irvine, for the work and materials. The rehabilitation will be for Clarifier #5 on the Train B plant.
The Train B plant processes approximately 4 million gallons per day of wastewater. Two independent clarifiers, known as Clarifier #5 and Clarifier #6, settle activated sludge downstream of the biological process. The two clarifiers, which operate continuously, are cylindrical concrete structures 150 feet wide and about 30 feet deep. The clarifier components include a system of steel gearboxes, a motor, rotational shafts, a sludge rake, a skimmer arm, launders, baffles, a catwalk, and piping.
Although EVMWD staff knew that Clarifier #5 was nearing the end of its useful life, it was the only operating clarifier on Train B for 21 years, which prevented
its removal from service for an extended period to conduct inspection and maintenance. Past repairs were expedited to get the clarifier back into operation within days to ensure that the plant processes remained online and compliant. Near-term plans to rehabilitate Clarifier #5 were scheduled to proceed after the completion of an upgrade project which included construction of the new Clarifier #6. The construction of Clarifier #6 was completed in 2021. In January 2024 Clarifier #5 failed and was removed from service. Clarifier #6 allowed Clarifier #5 to go out of service without major operational impacts. MISCOwater is a primary equipment supplier for water and wastewater process equipment. WesTech Engineering, whose corporate office is in Salt Lake City, provided the design and all mechanical and electrical equipment and controls for Clarifier #6. After the failure of Clarifier #5 EVMWD Wastewater Operations and Mechanical Maintenance staff coordinated with representatives from MISCOwater and Westech to perform a condition assessment of Clarifier #5. Westech identified multiple points of actual and imminent failure due to age, mechanical wear,
and corrosion. The condition assessment confirmed that Clarifier #5 was at the end of its mechanical life. During discussions about whether to repair or to overhaul and upgrade Clarifier #5 the project team evaluated multiple factors including logistics, downtime, and the cost to repair Clarifier #5, the legacy design of Clarifier #5, the recently constructed Clarifier #6, and the modern design features of Clarifier #6. The project team concluded that an overhaul and upgrade of Clarifier #5 to match the mechanical capabilities of Clarifier #6 was the preferred option. Those upgrades will provide standardization of equipment and spare parts, and the improved design of the Clarifier #6 hardware will provide efficiency and longevity benefits. Due to the familiarity MISCOwater and WesTech have with the clarifiers and the Regional Water Reclamation Facility they were deemed to be the most qualified vendors. A sole source prime contract was issued to MISCOwater, and Westech will be a subcontractor and will perform design and all fieldwork. The contract calls for the work to be completed by Feb. 28, 2026.
The work will include the removal of the old clarifier bridge
and replacement of the center column, center cage, dual gate energy dissipating inlet, feed well, full radius rake arms, half radius rake arms, full radius skimmer, full radius scum trough, weir brush system, scum baffle and supports, scum spray system, and drive unit. The old clarifier bridge will be reinstalled, and the truss arms on Clarifier #5 will be revealed.
The EVMWD project budget approved Feb. 13 also includes $8,705 for overhead, creating a total budget of $1,749,660.13. Joe Naiman can be reached at jnaiman@reedermedia.com.
To submit an upcoming community event, email it to vall-
put “attention events” in the subject line.
CHILDREN’S EVENTS
March 8 –
4-5:30 p.m. Teens can enjoy being a member of the Fiero Coding Club |every Saturday through April 19 at the Ronald H. Roberts Temecula Public Library, 30600 Pauba Road, Temecula. The program is for youth 11 to 16. Participants can use the library computers to practice the new program. Must have a library card. No registration is necessary.
March 28 – 4-5:30 p.m. Bad Art Night.Teens will be able to tap into their inner Picasso and embrace their creativity with art supplies provided by us! This program is for grades 7 to 12 and is limited to 25 participants. Registration has begun at the Ronald H. Roberts Temecula Public Library, 30600 Pauba Road, Temecula.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
March 7-25 – 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Free English classes for parents of children 2 to 12 to begin through the Romoland School District and the Riverside University Health System at Mesa View Elementary School, 27227 Heritage Lake Drive in Romoland. Registration through RUHS or Romoland School District.
March 7-16 – 10 a.m. I Am a Man photographs of the Civil Rights Movement 1960-1970 offered at the Temecula Valley Museum, 28314 Mercedes Street, Temecula. to view a special exhibit in honor of American Black History Month hosted by the museum and the City of Temecula Community Services Department.
March 8 – 7:30 to 11 a.m.
Every Saturday Wildomar’s city Beautification Project. Locations change. Contact Bridgette Moore at 951-440-6796 for information on events.
March 7 – 5 to 9 p.m. Menifee Foodie Fridays begin at Mt. San Jacinto College, 28237, LaPiedra Road, Menifee. Enjoy over 60 food vendors, delicacies, local boutiques and artisans’ works. Every first Friday of every month. March 8 – 9-11 a.m. The City of Temecula and the Temecula Unified School District will host
the 17th Annual Temecula Special Games at Great Oak High School Football Stadium, 32555 Deer Hollow Way, Temecula. This funfilled event celebrates athletes of all ages with developmental disabilities and fosters an inclusive environment for all.
March 8 – 10-11 a.m. How Money Works at Ronald H. Roberts Temecula Public Library, 30600 Pauba Road, Temecula. Adults 16 and up in need of help managing your finances? In partnership with Wealthwave The Money Milestones Company, participants will learn essential financial concepts, strategies, and solutions to make more informed financial decisions presently and in the future. No registration is required. 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.
March 28 – 11 a.m. Youth baseball/girls softball sport opens at Diamond Valley Park, 1801 Angler Ave., Hemet. Presented by Valley-Wide Recreation. Winter 2025 – Adult Class offerings through the Menifee Community Services at www. cityofmenifee.us/register for more information. Includes: Ballet Folklorico, driving lessons, Hula Tahitian dance, piano lessons, pickleball lessons, and Taekwondo.
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 ex-
ercise 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 at 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
March - May – 10 a.m. or 6 p.m. The new free Thrive Temecula program by the Community
Services Department begins on various dates to improve the wellness of the community offering methods to live a healthy lifestyle through active living, education, and community resources. The free classes and workshops will be at different parks and locations. The first will be held at 10 a.m. during a E-Bike Safety Workshop with other workshops through May 17 ranging from self-defense to a kid’s healthy cooking workshop. For times, dates, and locations contact @TemeculaParkandRec on Instagram and Facebook. Want to receive electronic newsletters to stay informed on events, programs, and offerings? Visit TemeculaCA. gov/TCSDNews to sign up.
March 8 – 1-3 p.m. Dorland Arts Colony’s Sunday Scribblers, A monthly event for writers of any sort! The event is hosted by Trond Hildahl with the coffee pot on. or attendees can bring their own glass of wine! Free and open to the public. Please RSVP at www. dorlandartscolony.org. Located at 26701 Hwy. 79 in south Temecula.
March 8 – Menifee Unified School District (MUSD) Educational Foundation announces an opportunity to join the school board. Two individuals will help support innovative programs, classroom resources, and scholarships that benefit students in the Menifee district. For information and application email musdedfoundation@gmail.com.
March 8 – Velo Training Facility to refine baseball skills is now open in Sun City at 27192 Sun City Blvd Ste A, Menifee.
March 8 –The City of Menifee Community Services Department requests residents’ input on what they would like to see at the Central Park Amphitheater whether it be concerts, movies, dancing, ceremonies or theater. See a survey through the department www. CityofMenifee.us/projects
March 13 – 5-9 p.m. Temecula Sunset Market is back with a blend of local flavor, live tunes, and one-of-a-kind finds in Town Square Park, 41000 Main Street, Temecula. An open-air market every second and fourth Thursday of the month.
March 18 – 9 a.m. to noon. Hemet Unified School District presents the 2025 College and Career Fair at Alessandro High School, 831 E. Devonshire, Hemet. For vendor openings contact Dennis Brandwin at Dennis@vitallink. org for more information.
March 25 – 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Menifee Business Workshop held at the Menifee City Hall, 29844 Haun Road, Menifee. Placemaking, Unique Identity, & Tourism Master Planning the subject.
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 .t Murrieta Spa & Resort,
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 California driver’s permit. Contact 951-7233880 or visit the city of Menifee to register at www.cityof menifee.us
ONGOING – 10-11:30 a.m. Michelle’s Place Cancer Resource Center and The Elizabeth Hospice host a virtual support meeting for caregivers every second and fourth week of the month via Zoom. Get helpful tips and learn from others who are also dealing with similar challenges. For more information and to register, contact The Elizabeth Hospice Grief Support Services at 833-349-2054.
ONGOING – Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous, a free 12step recovery program for anyone suffering from food obsession, overeating, undereating or bulimia, has meetings throughout the U.S. and the world. Contact 781932-6300, or for local meetings, call 925-321-0170 or visit www. foodaddicts.org.
ONGOING – The Murrieta Garden Club meets each month at the Murrieta Community Center, 41810 Juniper St. Anyone who likes to garden or is interested in plants is welcome. Membership is $10 per year. Find more information about the monthly event or project on Facebook.
ONGOING – Temecula Valley Rose Society meets each month. For more information and new meeting dates and places, visit www.temeculavalleyrosesociety. org
ONGOING – Menifee Toastmasters meets every Thursday at noon for one hour at a designated place to have fun, enhance speaking capabilities, gain self-confidence and improve social skills. For new dates, call 760-807-1323 or visit www.MenifeeToastmasters.org for more information. ONGOING – Homeless veterans can receive free help by dialing 877-424-3838 for 24/7 access to the VA’s services for homeless, at-risk veterans. Chat is confidential for veterans and friends. Visit www.va.gov/homeless.
ONGOING – The Dorland Scribblers meet the second Sunday of each month from 1-3 p.m. at 36701 Highway 79 South, Temecula. We welcome fiction, non-fiction, poets, memoir and screenwriters. We host writingcraft discussions; attendees may read up to a five-minute excerpt from their work for feedback/ critique. RSVP at www.dorlandartscolony.com/sunday-scribblers. html.
Category – First place:
by Sandy
Category – First place: “3DW” by
2-Dimensional Category First place: “Rawhide” – Sandy Thornton, San Marcos Second place: “Little Miss Fox” – Gabriella Rodriguez, Oceanside Third place: “Lightkeepers Promise” – Amy Walker, Oceanside
3-Dimensional Category
First place: “3DW” – Gayle Bamber, Fallbrook Second place: “Mortie” – Ann Turley, Fallbrook Third place: “Sheepish” – Lisa Stowers, Fallbrook
Photography Category First place: “The Last Stop” – John Tobin, Murrieta Second place: “Beauty Through Strength” – Lori Beach, Temecula Third place: “A Stroll on the Beach” – Tony Velez, San Diego Fallbrook Chamber’s Pick “Moonshadow” – Jill Beltran, Fallbrook People’s Choice Award “Rescue Dog” – Karen Knox-Harris
Submitted by: Anita Kimzey, Event Coordinator
This year’s Ramona Outdoor Play Artistic Director Duane Minard will appear in a special presentation by the Hemet Heritage Foundation in Hemet on Monday, March 10.
Duane Minard will lead the presentation with “Ramona 2025” and what is happening at the Ramona Bowl Amphitheater in Hemet and will look ahead in transitioning into the “Next One Hundred Years.”
The event will be held at Memorial Funeral Services, 1111 S. State Street in Hemet, on the
southwest corner of State and Stetson and will host members of the Hemet Museum and possibly other members of the Ramona cast. The event will run from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
As a Native American, Duane will offer his perspective on being part of the play as performer and director. There will be an update on the new documentary “Ramona and the Ballad of Juan Diego” and performances of several members of the cast.
Minard has a long association with Ramona spanning two decades including eight seasons as Ysidro, five seasons as Alessandro,
Bob Garver Contributor
This week, I’m going to do what I usually do and review the biggest as-yet-unreviewed movie at the weekend box office with “Last Breath.” However, I’m also going to take a detour and review the film that just won Best Picture at the Academy Awards in “Anora.” My rationale is that the Oscar win may lead to renewed interest, and thus a spike in ticket sales, on a national level. Also, I’ve wanted an excuse to talk about this movie for months. But first, the “hot” new release… Last Breath
This movie tells the real-life story of a mission to rescue a deepsea pipeline worker stranded at the bottom of the ocean. Finn Cole plays the terrified diver, Simu Liu is his partner and the only diver capable of such a dangerous rescue, Woody Harrelson operates the underwater vessel that Cole and Liu use as a base, and Cliff Curtis is the captain of the ship in charge of the vessel. Everyone has to be very smart, capable, and careful, and they have to do it all in the middle of a huge storm. It doesn’t look good for our marooned main character, who has only a tenminute supply of oxygen.
“Last Breath” has its heart in the right place, trying to make a memorable cinematic experience out of real heroism. It does what it can to wring every last drop of suspense out of an operation that, mathematically, must have been over relatively quickly (quickly for a feature-length movie, that is, not to be without oxygen). But
the banter, emotional beats, and character types can be found in any number of similar films. The only thing this movie really has to boast about is its ability to recreate danger and make its audience very uncomfortable. How eager are you to sit through a movie that can’t sell itself on anything other than making you uncomfortable?
Grade: C
“Last Breath” is rated PG-13 for brief strong language. Its running time is 93 minutes.
Anora
The newly-crowned Best Picture Oscar winner stars Mikey Madison (herself the winner of the Best Actress Oscar) as the title character, a sex worker who doesn’t allow herself to have any delusions about her life. That is, until she meets wealthy young Russian Vanya (Mark Eydelshteyn), who falls in love with her and promises her a life of luxury. For possibly the first time in her life, Ani allows herself to be hopeful about the future, and her dreams seem to come true when she and Vanya get married. But one day, three “business associates” (Karren Karagulian, Vache Tovmasyan, and Oscar nominee Yura Borisov) of Vanya’s oligarch father show up at Vanya’s house, tasked with getting the marriage annulled. Anora’s chance at a better life is about to fall to pieces, and Vanya doesn’t help things by simply disappearing, which sends everyone on a crazed search together, but with conflicting goals. The cast plays well off each other, and the desperate search scenes play deliciously into my anxieties in a way that no movie has triggered since 2019’s “Uncut
and 15 seasons as Alessandro’s stunt double. He has also been a member of the Redtail Spirit Dancers and Singers and has participated in the Elder Blessing Scene as a singer, dancer, drummer, and actor. His dedication to the production also extends behind the scenes, serving as Assistant Director for three seasons for Dennis Anderson. Minard’s artistic talents extend far beyond the Ramona Amphitheatre. His acting credits include roles in “Where the Summit Meets the Stars,” “Lying with Badgers,” “Bingo Hall,” and “Off the Rails.” He is also a prolific playwright, penning numerous
California Native-themed plays. Minard has lent his expertise to the Autry, the Heidi Duckler Dance Academy, and the Oregon Shakespeare Festival as a choreographer. He is a proud member of the Native Voices Artist Ensemble, where he has contributed as a playwright, stage manager, director, choreographer, and actor since 2010.
This year’s Ramona Outdoor Play will be held in the Ramona Bowl in Hemet on April 26, 27, May 3,4,10 and 11 Tickets are available at the box office or online.
Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com.
Grade: A for Anora!
“Anora” is rated R for strong sexual content throughout, graphic nudity, pervasive language, and drug use. Its running time is 139 minutes.
Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@ nyu.edu.
Gems.” But the heart of the movie is in the Madison performance as a character who refuses to admit how pathetic she truly is, including and especially to herself. In that way, “Anora” is the most heartbreaking film of 2024. It’s also the funniest film of 2024, with all the shenanigans between Anora and the Russian goons, especially Borisov. Oscar-winning director Sean Baker made sure all tones were covered in his Oscar-winning script, then he went and won another Oscar for editing. This movie is so tragic, uproarious, infuriating, and beautiful that I was literally stumbling around in a daze after I left the theater. The one thing that was clear was that I had just seen the best movie not just of 2024, but the last five years. And if you have room in your heart for a very raunchy indie movie, I suggest you see it too.
SOLAR! Close to I-15 and downtown Fallbrook. OFFERED AT $1,250,000
JP Raineri Sports Editor
ONTARIO — Under the bright lights of Toyota Arena, the Rancho Christian Eagles took flight Friday night, delivering a commanding 58-48 victory over Brentwood to claim the CIF Southern Section Division 1 girls’ basketball championship. From the opening tip, the Eagles established control, scoring the game’s first seven points and never relinquishing their lead in a performance that showcased their dominance and composure.
For Rancho Christian, this marks the program’s second section title in three years, building on their 2021 Division 3A championship. Friday’s milestone victory affirmed their rise through the ranks to claim their place among California’s elite programs.
The Eagles’ triumph was fueled by Gonzaga-bound senior guard Julia Wilson, who demonstrated
why she has been the centerpiece of the team’s success all season.
Wilson poured in 22 points, pulled down eight rebounds, and electrified the crowd as she took command late in the first half. After being held to just three points in the opening 11 minutes, Wilson erupted during the final minutes before halftime, scoring a sizzling 12 straight points to solidify Rancho Christian’s lead.
“That moment was everything. I knew I needed to step up when my team needed me most,” Wilson said after the game. “Winning with these girls and our coaches, it’s a moment I’ll cherish forever.”
Wilson’s standout effort was supported by junior forward Alyson Boyd, who delivered a doubledouble with 19 points and 11 rebounds. Boyd’s presence in the paint and key second-half rebounds kept momentum in the Eagles’ favor even as Brentwood mounted a strong push. Ebony
JP Raineri Sports Editor
The road to the CIF State Boys Basketball Championships continues, and for Elsinore and Citrus Hill, the stakes couldn’t be higher. With both teams vying to progress in the Division IV tournament, victories on Tuesday night could keep their postseason dreams alive and set up an enticing potential clash in the regional bracket.
For Elsinore, who narrowly lost their semifinal game against Ramona in the section playoffs, the matchup against Grant High School represents a crucial opportunity for redemption. Ranked 339th in the state, Elsinore enters the game as an experienced team with significant talent across the board. Star player Kamrynn Nathan will be pivotal to their success. Nathan averages an impressive 16.4 points per game, making him the team’s go-to scorer, while also adding 2.9 assists per game. Supporting him is big man Jaiden Harrell, whose presence in the paint has been felt all season with 7.3 rebounds per game. Defensively, Brandon Boatman has been a standout with 2.3 steals per game, providing a critical edge in disrupting opponents’ offensive rhythm.
Grant High School, however, will not go down easily. The Van Nuys-based team is coming off a strong season defined by solid per-
formances from their own standout players. Ronald Merrill has been a dominant scoring force, leading the team with an average of 18.4 points per game. Teammate Noah Lett contributes significantly on the boards, grabbing 8.0 rebounds per game, while Andrew Berry’s 3.2 assists per game orchestrate their offensive flow. Defensively, Abraham Camara offers a powerful presence with 1.7 blocks per game. With these numbers, Grant holds a formidable combination of size, scoring, and defensive capability, making them a tough opponent for Elsinore.
Meanwhile, Citrus Hill faces its own uphill climb as they prepare to battle Fresno Christian in the opening round of this highly anticipated state tournament. The team from Perris has navigated a challenging route to make it this far. After finishing fourth in the Inland Valley League, Citrus Hill entered the playoffs via an at-large bid. Despite their loss to California High School in the CIF-SS Division 4A finals, where they fell 6347, their grit has pushed them to the state tournament stage.
This week’s game is an opportunity for Citrus Hill to prove their mettle and advance to the next round. They’ll need to deliver a sharp performance to hold off Fresno Christian, who will bring the home-court advantage and an energized fan base. The Division IV setting brings parity to
Along with Citrus Hill, the Elsinore Tigers will start their season-defining playoff games this week as they both bid for a spot in the next round of the CIF State Boys Basketball Championships. Valley News/Instagram courtesy photo these teams, as both are looking to capitalize on this moment to propel themselves deeper into the postseason.
For Elsinore and Citrus Hill, their paths through Tuesday night are just the beginning of what many fans hope culminates in a head-to-head clash in the regional bracket. With both programs hungry for success, the potential
matchup holds significant weight for Southern California basketball.
The atmosphere promises to be electric as these teams take to the court. For Elsinore, the challenge of facing Grant’s offensive firepower will require their defense to step up and contain players like Merrill and Camara. Citrus Hill, meanwhile, must focus on slowing Fresno Christian’s tempo and
finding ways to generate consistent offensive production. With playoff intensity on full display, this week’s games may well determine who carries the torch for Southern California in the Division IV Championships. Send local sports tips and info to sports@reedermedia.com.
March 1, taking home the championship trophy in the Scorpion Classic. The 4-1 win not only marked an emphatic end to their preseason but also underscored their determination and skill as they enter league play.
Jayden Dyer wasted no time setting the tone for Chaparral, delivering an RBI single in the first inning to give the Pumas an early lead. However, Roosevelt responded quickly, tying the game at 1-1 and setting the stage for a
dramatic battle that would stretch into extra innings.
For much of the game, it was a duel of strong pitching and airtight defense. Starting pitcher Jaiden Lopez put in an impressive display on the mound for the Pumas, tossing six innings and allowing just three hits and one run while tallying four strikeouts. When the reins were handed over to Sebastian Zuniga in relief, the momentum continued. Zuniga shut down Roosevelt over the final two innings, ensuring the game stayed tied long enough for the Pumas’ offense to reignite.
The eighth inning saw Chaparral step up when it mattered most. With the bases loaded, Bailey McGrody drew a walk to push across the go-ahead run. Moments later, Connor Wetzel delivered the crucial moment of the game—a two-run double that expanded the lead to 4-1, ensuring the Pumas would head home as champions.
Wetzel was an offensive star throughout the game, finishing 3-for-4 with two RBIs. His timely contributions were complemented by multi-hit performances from Dean Mariani, Nicholas Vazquez, and Ethan Udell. The Pumas’ bats were relentless, pounding out 12 hits in total to keep Roosevelt on their heels.
Chaparral’s defense was equally vital to the victory, executing two crucial double plays to stifle Roosevelt’s attempts to build any late
momentum. The combination of offensive firepower, sharp defense, and dominant pitching proved decisive in a game where every play mattered.
The win over Roosevelt marked an impressive conclusion to a flawless tournament performance for the Pumas, who went 5-0 in the Scorpion Classic, hosted by the Hesperia Scorpions Baseball team. Their path to the championship included commanding victories over Barstow (16-2), Littlerock (6-0), Hesperia (10-3), and Oak Hills (22-2).
With a few more preseason games to go, the Pumas will soon set their sights on Southwestern League play. They’ll open league action on April 7 against Murrieta Mesa, eager to maintain their spot atop the preseason standings. The league’s preseason standings currently place Chaparral first at 5-0, ahead of Vista Murrieta (4-0-1), Murrieta Mesa (3-0), Temecula Valley (1-1), Great Oak (1-3), and Murrieta Valley (1-4).
With a perfect start to the season and a preseason championship trophy in hand, Chaparral has made a statement so far. Their blend of talent, strategy, and composure under pressure has already set them apart—and it’s clear they’re ready for whatever challenges lie ahead. Send local sports tips and info to sports@reedermedia.com.
of everything these girls have done to earn it.”
Brentwood entered the championship game as the defending Division 1 champions, gunning for their third consecutive title after setting a CIF-SS record for threepointers in a season. However, Rancho Christian’s stifling defense neutralized their biggest weapon, forcing Brentwood to shoot just 5 of 33 from long range. Payton Sugar, the school’s all-time leader in three-pointers, struggled under the defensive pressure, converting only two of her 13 attempts. Even so, Brentwood’s senior star Lev Feiman fought valiantly, scoring 22 points to keep her team within striking distance. Brentwood opened the second half with a 14-2 run, narrowing Rancho Christian’s lead to 3735. The Eagles showed no signs of panic, quickly regrouping and maintaining their composure. Taylor-Smith’s timely three-pointer and Boyd’s steady contributions as a post presence helped Rancho Christian fend off the rally.
“It definitely crossed our minds that Brentwood has been here before, but we trusted in everything we’ve worked on to get to this point,” Taylor-Smith said. “The win hasn’t fully sunk in yet, but it feels incredible right now.”
Rancho Christian’s ability to withstand Brentwood’s surges was particularly impressive considering senior forward Hailey Whitman’s limited play due to foul trouble. Whitman logged fewer than 12 minutes after picking up her fourth foul early in the third quarter, but her teammates stepped up to ensure the Eagles remained in control.
Defensively, Rancho Christian limited Brentwood to just one basket in the game’s final three minutes to seal the victory. Brentwood’s final push was stalled when Feiman’s basket with 2:59 remaining closed the gap to 52-48, but the defending champions failed to score again as the Eagles’ team defense tightened.
For Rancho Christian, Friday night’s victory is more than a trophy — it’s validation of a season spent challenging them-
selves against some of California’s toughest competition. With a 25-8 record, the Eagles’ schedule included three teams from the CIFSS Open Division playoffs, a level of preparation that paid dividends during the championship game.
Brentwood coach Charles Solomon acknowledged the Eagles’ effort postgame, saying, “They made it tough for us to find our rhythm from deep, which is something we’ve relied on all year. We had opportunities, but credit to Rancho Christian for the way they executed.”
Looking ahead, both Rancho Christian and Brentwood will turn their focus to the CIF State playoffs, which begin March 4 with first-round matchups. The Eagles were dealt the No. 5 seed, and will have another Eagles team to face, this time it’s the Oak Park Eagles. Oak Park is the No. 12 seed and will travel to face our hometown squad for a 7 p.m. tip off. Brentwood is the No. 6 seed and will face La Jolla County Day. Send local sports tips and info to sports@reedermedia.com.
JP Raineri Sports Editor
TEMECULA – Under the Friday night lights at Chaparral High School, Temecula FC delivered a thrilling 4-1 comeback victory against Buena Park FC in the opening leg of the Raul Briones Cup quarterfinals. The win puts the Quails in a strong position as they aim to advance in the prestigious tournament.
The match began with a jolt of excitement, as Buena Park FC silenced the home crowd with a quick goal just 10 minutes into the contest. Despite the setback, Temecula FC remained undeterred, regaining their composure and taking control of the game. By the time the halftime whistle blew, the Quails had turned the tide. Goals from Beto and Noah ensured Temecula carried a 2-1 lead into the break.
The second half belonged entirely to Temecula FC. With their attacking rhythm clicking, they patiently built toward opportunities while maintaining firm defensive shape against a dangerous Buena Park side. Gio emerged as the star of the night with two second-half strikes, sealing the important win. His contributions not only extended the lead but energized the home supporters, who erupted with every moment of success.
Temecula’s dominance did not mean the match lacked challenges.
Early in the second half, Buena Park produced an aggressive spell of attacking play, testing the Quails’ defensive discipline. Yet, under the guidance of first-team manager John Oliver, the team weathered the pressure, regained possession control, and reasserted their command of the game.
“The guys controlled the majority of the game after conceding an early goal, which was completely against the run of play. Buena Park came out strong in the second half and had a good 20-minute spell, but we were able to get back into our possession game and see the match out,” said Oliver after the match. “Buena Park is a strong side, and it won’t be easy in the second leg. But tonight, we’ve put ourselves in a very strong position.”
This victory highlights the positive trajectory Temecula FC has been on under the leadership of Oliver. His clear vision and dedication to player development have transformed the team into a
on their own.
The annual event is held in different locations each year. Campos was attending the summit for the first time and found a highlight to be watching the youth interact with Julian Garcia, assistant to US Rep. Juan Vargas, and hearing them advocate for important issues across Indian country.
“I hope the youth learned from this experience the power their voices hold,” she said. “If youth were to work together to help advocate for issues that the Native community faces, I believe great things could be accomplished; the youth could bring needed change to the generations to come.”
Campos enjoyed sharing free time with the youth as they walked around the Washington Mall and visited the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, WW2 Memorial, the White House, and Capitol Hill.”
High school senior Temet Guacheno attended sessions “Democracy is Indigenous,” “Environmental Sovereignty” and “Advocacy 101” and said he learned the importance of communication skills. “I enjoyed the workshops and meeting new people,” he said.
Kimani Sanchez said she learned about the important issues affecting Native land, including the challenges Indigenous communities face in protecting their rights.
“I’ve also gained valuable skills in advocating for change by learning how to effectively communicate with representatives about issues that matter to me,” she said. “What I liked best about the conference was the opportunity to meet new people and make great connections. It was fun to build friendships with others who share similar interests while also learning about important issues. The
cohesive and competitive force this season. Players have executed his strategies with precision, proving their ability to rise to high-stakes occasions.
Brandon Jantz, a key figure in the club’s operations, commended the team’s focus and the impact of the coaching staff. “John has worked diligently to build this squad into a unit capable of delivering results like tonight. The players are responding incredibly well, and the team chemistry continues
combination of engaging discussions and a welcoming environment made the experience both educational and enjoyable.”
The Native Youth Leadership Summit is sponsored by the National Congress of American Indians. Founded in 1944, NCAI is the oldest, largest, and most representative American Indian and Alaska Native organization serving the broad interests of tribal governments and communities.
NCAI, a nonprofit organization, advocates for a bright future for generations to come by taking the lead to gain consensus on a constructive and promising vision for Indian Country. Since its founding, NCAI has remained true to the original purpose of the organization: to be the unified voice of Tribal nations.
Alongside the Native Youth Leadership Summit, NCAI hosted its annual Executive Council Winter Session, which was attended by Soboba Tribal Council Chairman Isaiah Vivanco, Vice Chairwoman
to grow match by match,” he noted.
With the first leg in hand, Temecula FC will now shift their attention to preparing for the decisive second leg of the quarterfinals. While maintaining their lead will be no small task against a Buena Park FC side eager to stage a comeback, Temecula’s performance on Friday surely inspires confidence in their ability to finish the job.
For now, fans can revel in an evening that underscored Temecula FC’s determination to compete at
Geneva Mojado and attorney Loretta Tuell, a lobbyist for Soboba.
The NCAI Executive Council is one of NCAI’s three main governing bodies. This annual meeting presents an opportunity for Tribal delegates to hear from members of Congress and the Administration and helps to further the government-to-government relationship between Tribal Nations and the federal government.
Vivanco has been attending these meetings since he returned to the Tribal Council in 2015. Mojado said she started going when she was first elected to Council in 2006, stating that Rosemary Morillo and she have always attended either the annual or midyear sessions.
“For me, our main focus was understanding how the new administration’s executive orders could impact us at home,” Vivanco said. “We also had the opportunity to work on Capitol Hill, engaging in discussion with many U.S. senators as well as congressional
the highest level of the Raul Briones Cup. Supporters and players alike will turn their focus toward finishing this quarterfinal battle strong and keeping their championship dreams alive.
Follow Temecula FC at temeculafc.com or on social media @ TemeculaFC for updates, match information, and team news. Send local sports tips and info to sports@reedermedia.com.
leaders, both Republican and Democrat. We were able to express to them our concerns with some of the executive orders as well as how it would impact Tribes. We need their support now more than ever. We are going to continue our outreach with congressional leaders to stress the importance of recognizing Tribes as sovereign nations while continuing to uphold their trust responsibility to us.”
Mojado said she enjoyed being able to have dinner with the TANF youth. “Even more so this time since Mr. Echohawk joined us and shared his story. It is always a pleasure to see Sharice Davids as well,” she said. “We have yet to see how this administration will work with Tribal Nations. It was nice to meet the newly appointed Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum.”
Vivanco said, “It’s always important for our youth to be exposed to organizations like NCAI, UNITY and AISES. NCAI provides a little more of a Tribal government atmosphere for them. I did get a chance to see them going to and from working sessions as I was doing the same. Aside from the networking, they are able to sit in on general session meetings and hear real-time issues impacting all Natives. These are our future leaders and to get this type of firsthand experience is invaluable.”
Mojado agrees that it is very important for the youth to attend conferences such as UNITY and NCAI. “One, to inspire the future leaders and two, to see how Tribal governments unilaterally work with the United States government,” she said. “It is important for them to be in the know of how the federal government and states affect Tribes. We were inherent sovereigns before the United States was even born. We must continue to fight and educate about sovereignty.”
A young entrepreneur in Aguanga is making a name for himself at the intersection of State
customers Tuesday, Feb. 25. Anza Valley Outlook/Courtesy photo family. His father serves on active duty in the military, which means frequent moves. His two older siblings visit for half the year and Anza Community Hall: A volunteer-powered landmark serving since 1949
Highways 371 and 79, selling fresh-squeezed lemonade and homemade cookies with a goal in mind - earning enough money for a trip to the zoo and Legoland. Ryker Horton, 7, came up with
the idea himself, persistently asking his mother, Candice, for weeks before she agreed to help him bring his vision to life. Together, they planned the stand, decided on the menu and built it from the ground up. Now, Ryker operates his stand twice a weekTuesdays from noon to 4 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. A homeschooled first-grader, Ryker lives in Aguanga with his
The
Diane Sieker Staff Writer
In 1948, members of the Anza community came together with a plan. They donated land, materials, and labor to build what would become the Anza Community Hall. According to the Anza Electric Cooperative, the hall was constructed in 1949 through
for the next stage of construction in
community efforts and funding. The Anza Community Building, Inc., the nonprofit organization responsible for the hall, was established in 1948.
“It took a while because it was all volunteer-driven, but they did it. Now, we have this little building that is the heart of our town,” said Hall event organizer Pebbles Lewis. “Over the years, so many things have been held
Volunteers work on the
here. It’s where our youth clubs meet, where service organizations hold meetings and fundraisers, and where people celebrate life’s milestones like baby showers, birthdays, weddings, receptions and memorials. This building has touched so many lives.”
The Anza Community Hall, along with Minor Park and the Little Red Schoolhouse, serves as a historical centerpiece of
Community Hall trusses in
downtown. These landmarks continue to function thanks to hardworking volunteers and the nonprofit organizations that maintain them.
“Events held here - dances, fundraisers, and the swap meethelp keep the doors open,” Lewis said. “The hall belongs to the community, and by becoming a member, participating in these events or making a donation, we
can keep it going. Your support is greatly appreciated.” All events and most of the work done on the Hall is done by volunteers, including the new upgrades accomplished with funds received by Riverside County grants. The upgrade to the handicap parking will begin soon, and is also funded by a grant see HALL, page B-3 see LEMONADE, page B-4
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 to 8 p.m. 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
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.
Editorial
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
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.
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 and Friday evenings at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 56095 Pena Road in Anza. For more information, please email Barbara at chicasita55@ gmail.com
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.
Narcotics Anonymous Tuesday meetings, 8 p.m. at Shepherd of the Valley Church, Anza, 56095 Pena Rd. Anza. For more information, please email Barbara at chicasita55@gmail. com
Women’s Alcoholics
Anonymous –Thursdays at 12 noon. Meetings at Shepherd of the Valley Church, 56095 Pena Rd. in Anza. For more information, please email Barbara at chicasita55@ gmail.com
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 SR-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.
Diane Sieker Staff Writer
As egg prices hit record highs, backyard chicken enthusiasts in the Anza Valley are gaining popularity, offering fresh eggs at reasonable rates. With more residents considering raising their own hens, local experts share insights on chicken care, nutrition and the growing community interest in backyard farming.
The history of chicken domestication Chickens have been domesticated for at least 8,000 years, with the earliest evidence dating back to 6,000 B.C. in Southeast Asia and South China. They are believed to have descended from the red junglefowl, a wild bird native to the forests of South and Southeast Asia.
Archaeological findings in northern China, Thailand and the Indus Valley suggest that chickens spread westward to the Middle East, Africa and Europe before reaching the Americas.
Early civilizations valued chickens not only for their meat and eggs but also for religious and cultural purposes.
“In ancient Rome, chickens were used in divination,” said Cezanne Jodka, Lake Riverside Estates resident. “Sacred chickens were kept by priests, and their eating habits were believed to predict the outcome of battles.”
Raising happy, healthy chickens
Backyard flocks thrive on a varied diet of seeds, grains, fruits, plants, commercial feeds, vegetables and protein.
“My chickens are excellent bug
eaters,” said Janey Metzler. “They love fruits and veggies and are fun, loving and precious birds.”
Chickens will also consume livestock feed and local plants.
“Chickens love alfalfa,” said Jodka. “I throw a good quantity in their yard, and it’s down to just straws in a couple of days.”
At Honeyheart Farms in Aguanga, owner Susie Follstad uses native plants to enhance her chickens’ environment.
“We use feathery Ribbonwood leaves as a bedding alternative and interactive foraging source,” she said. “Put a branch in your coop and in no time, the leaves will be stripped off. The birds love the seeds, and fallen branches become perches and forts for our chickens.”
Egg storage and safety
As spring approaches, egg
from Riverside County District 3. The new appliances in the kitchen were made possible by generous donations from the Community.
“We are also the official Cooling and Warming Center and we could always use volunteers to serve when the need arises” said Lewis.
The Anza Community Hall succeeds with the support of the community. Hall board meetings are open to the public and everyone is encouraged to attend.
Anza Community Hall members enjoy event discounts and can join in three ways:
• An individual membership is $30 annually, with all discounts applying to one individual.
• Family annual memberships cost $50 and provide discounts for a group of up to five related individuals.
• An annual business membership is $50 and provides discounts for up to 4 individuals. Cash, PayPal and checks are accepted as payment. Proceeds from memberships go toward the Anza Community Hall’s general fund and are used for maintenance and programs sponsored by the Hall. Anyone interested in becoming
production increases and proper storage becomes a priority.
“You don’t need to refrigerate fresh eggs,” said Danny Rankin. “They have a natural coating that seals them. Once you wash them, that protective bloom is removed, and then they must be refrigerated. My mom kept 200 hens and sold the eggs for grocery money.” Protection from predators is another key concern for backyard farmers. Secure enclosures and well-built coops help ensure flock safety. For many, chickens become beloved pets, earning clever and creative names.
“I love all my birds,” Metzler said. “My husband built me a chicken coop when I had neck surgery. I picked out four hens, but when I saw one more, my heart instantly wanted her. She ran out to us, and the seller let me have her for free. I named her Sweet Cherry Pie.”
Local chicken-related events
Anza Valley hobby farms are offering events and programs to support the growing interest in backyard chicken keeping and healthy, affordable eggs.
Freedom Farm in Anza will host a Raising Chickens 101 class on Saturday, March 29.
“We will show you around our chicken coops and runs and cover everything from collecting eggs, incubating, and raising chicks to chicken health, feed, and farm-to-
table processing,” said farm owner Janene Anderson. Attendees will have the option to purchase baby chicks at a discount.
Honeyheart Farms offers an egg share program to provide affordable, fresh eggs to the community.
“I saw a need for a local, affordable option for healthy eggs,” said Follstad. “What started as a few dozen a month is now turning into a few dozen a day. My goal is to keep costs low, not make a profit. Organic feed and fresh produce are expensive, but we love having the clucks around.” Customers can sign up for three-, six-, or 12-month shares to support the farm while receiving a steady supply of eggs.
With the increasing interest in backyard chickens, Anza Valley residents are finding new ways to connect over their love for poultry, fresh eggs, and sustainable farming.
To learn more about Honeyheart Farm’s egg share, please visit them at https://www. facebook.com/Honeyheart. Farms?mibextid=ZbWKwL. For information on Freedom Farm’s Raising Chickens 101 class, text 310-480-5181 or visit https://www.facebook.com/ Putemupranch.
Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia. com
a member of the Anza Community Building, Inc., or to discover upcoming events can call Pebbles Bartlett-Lewis at 951-760-9244, or Barbara Keller at 951-2824267, visit the Hall’s website at https://anzacommunitybuilding. org or their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/ groups/337754646415866. To donate, please click https:// anzacommunitybuilding.org/ donations. The Anza Community Building, Inc. is located at 56630 CA-371 in Anza. Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia.com
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 Feb. 23 through March 1. Feb. 23
Civil dispute - 4900 block
Flightline Wy., Lake Riverside Trespassing - 5900 block Burnt Valley Rd., Anza Feb. 25
Trespassing - 5600 block Knollwood Dr., Anza Unattended death - address withheld, Anza, report taken
Feb. 28
Fraud - 5700 block Glebe Rd., Anza, report taken March 1
Assist other departmentaddress undefined, Lake Riverside Check the welfare - address undefined, Anza No assumption of criminal guilt or affiliation should be drawn from the content provided in the Sheriff’s Blotter.
The Sheriff’s Blotter enables residents to know what criminal activity is occurring in their communities.
have shown interest in contributing to the stand, even brainstorming ways to make it better.
On his first day, Ryker’s stand was a success. Selling lemonade for 50 cents a cup and offering large sourdough chocolate chip cookies alongside smaller chocolate chip varieties, he quickly drew customers. Generous tips and donations for cookies brought his total earnings to $80.50.
“He’s hoping to make enough to go to the zoo and to Legoland,” Candice said.
Beyond business, Ryker also shares his kindness. While
Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo
working the stand, he noticed a man across the street selling items and decided to give him a balloon and some cookies. In return, the man gifted Ryker a bag of peanuts and oranges.
“It was so awesome to see,” Candice said. “He was so excited because he wasn’t expecting anything back. He just wanted to make sure the guy wasn’t hungry and had a balloon to play with.” With enthusiasm for his small business, Ryker plans to keep going, embracing his personal mantra: “Never gonna give up.”
Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia. com
The Miracle Prayer
Lord Jesus, I come before you, just as I am, I am sorry for my sins, I repent of my sins, please forgive me. In your Name, I forgive all others for what they have done against me. I renounce Satan, the evil spirits and all their works. I give you my entire self, Lord Jesus, now and forever. I invite you into my life, Jesus. I accept you as my Lord, God and Saviour. Heal me, change me, strengthen me in body, soul, and spirit.
Come Lord Jesus, cover me with your Precious Blood, and fill me with your Holy Spirit. I love you Lord Jesus. I praise you Jesus. I thank you Jesus. I shall follow you every day of my life. Amen. Mary, My Mother, Queen of Peace, St. Peregrine, the cancer saint, all the Angels and Saints, please help me. Amen.
Say this prayer faithfully, no matter how you feel. When you come to the point where you sincerely mean each word with all your heart, Jesus will change your whole life in a very special way. You will see Prayer © 1993 Peter M. Rookey and Servite Fathers, O.S.M.
Suspicious circumstance - 5600 block St. Hwy. 371, Anza Public assist - 4800 block Forest Springs Rd., Lake Riverside Feb. 24
Assault w/deadly weaponaddress undefined, Anza, report taken Area check - address undefined, Anza
Suspected DUI - 4100 block Terwilliger Rd., Anza Feb. 26 Public assist - 4100 block Terwilliger Rd., Anza Suspect info - address withheld, Anza
Follow-up - address withheld, Anza
Feb. 27
Area check - address undefined, Anza Fraud - 4800 block Dirt, Anza Public assist - 5800 block Burnt Valley Rd., Anza
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
Zachary Elliott Special to Valley News
A few years back, my Nana had a nasty cold, and what happened next changed my view on onions. It was a miserable cold, one with hot and cold flashes, head and body aches, stuffy nose, the works... She was truly suffering. Word got around, and a friend suggested an old wives’ remedy: an onion. She said, “If you put an onion in her room, it’ll attract bacteria, and she’ll be better in no time.”
After a quick debate, my wife and I decided, why not? So, with an onion in hand, I headed into
Nana’s room. As soon as I walked in, she looked at me and said, “There’s the man of God! I really want you to pray for me.”
So, holding the onion, I prayed for her. When I finished, I explained, “Nana, I’m going to leave this onion in your room. It’s supposed to help you get better.”
She shrugged and said, “Okay, whatever!”
The next morning, I checked on her. No change. Disappointed, I threw the onion away and went to work.
Later that day, she was up, moving around, and feeling much better. Naturally, I thought the onion worked!
the wrong things. The Bible says, “So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded.” (Hebrews 10:35).
Here’s the point: What you put your confidence in matters. Too often, we trust God with one hand while clinging to something else with the other. Don’t make that mistake.
Put your full confidence in God. He is faithful, and when you trust Him completely, He will richly reward you.
Think it over:
Take time to evaluate your life. Where are you putting your confidence?
When things work out, who do you give the credit to?
But when I got home, Nana said, “Zac, you prayed for me, and the Lord healed me. Thank you!”
I felt more than a little embarrassed. Here I was, giving credit to an onion instead of the God who heals. It reminded me how easy it is to put confidence in
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.
Menifee becomes first
MENIFEE - The City of Menifee’s Economic Development Department has been honored as the 2025 Outstanding Industry Partner of the Year by Mt. San Jacinto College (MSJC). This recognition celebrates the City’s commitment to workforce development, job creation, and fostering strategic partnerships that benefit the local economy.
Menifee is the first city to receive this prestigious honor, underscoring the strength of the collaboration between the City, the Menifee Valley Chamber of Commerce, and MSJC.
Through impactful initiatives like internships, job fairs, and job placement programs, this joint partnership has directly connected local residents with high-demand careers, advancing both individual success and regional workforce development.
A special congratulations was given to Kayla Charters, Economic Development Manager for the City of Menifee, who was recognized at the award ceremony for her exceptional contributions to workforce development. Charters’ dedication to advancing community opportunities and her leadership in connecting businesses with a skilled workforce have been critical to
the City’s economic success. Her tireless efforts continue to inspire positive change in Menifee and the surrounding region.
“This recognition truly reflects the power of collaboration,” said Nesha Hill, Job Developer/ Placement Coordinator at MSJC.
“The City of Menifee’s Economic Development Department, Kayla Charters, and the Menifee Valley Chamber of Commerce have all been instrumental in creating meaningful connections and ensuring that Menifee’s residents are well-equipped for success in the workforce.”
The Menifee Valley Chamber of Commerce was also recognized as part of this honor. Their ongoing support of local businesses and workforce initiatives has played an integral role in the success of Menifee’s economic development efforts.
“This recognition underscores the power of collaboration and the impact of strong partnerships on our community,” said Katie Luna, President/CEO of the Menifee Valley Chamber of Commerce.
“Through our work with Mt. San Jacinto College and the City of Menifee’s Economic Development Department, we’re building a foundation for workforce success and advancing economic
development. By creating opportunities for local talent and businesses, we’re strengthening our region’s economic future. We’re proud to be named the 2025 Outstanding Industry Partner of the Year and look forward to continuing our mission of fostering innovation and prosperity.”
Menifee’s workforce development efforts are already yielding impressive results, with the California Employment Development Department reporting a 7.8% increase in Menifee’s employment rate from 2022 to 2023. In addition, the City is actively engaged in the Southwest Riverside County Higher Education Coalition, which focuses on expanding four-year degree programs, particularly in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
“Workforce Development is a critical component to attracting high-skill, high-wage employers to the City and region,” said Charters. “With enhanced collaboration with Menifee’s education partners and an innovative approach to economic development, Menifee will continue to elevate the workforce development pipeline to support the business community.”
For more information on Economic Development or other
resources available to Menifee businesses, please visit www. menifeebusiness.com or contact
the Economic Development Department at econdev@ cityofmenifee.us
TEMECULA — The Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce (TVCC) has been awarded the Outstanding Industry Partner of the Year Award by Mt. San Jacinto College (MSJC). The honor was presented during MSJC’s Annual Employer Appreciation Luncheon, held at Oak Mountain Winery, in recognition of TVCC’s exceptional dedication to supporting workforce development and student success in the region. This award celebrates the Chamber’s contributions to fostering meaningful collaborations between MSJC and the business community. From co-hosting educational summits to offering internships and participating in panel discussions, TVCC’s initiatives have created pathways for students to gain invaluable skills and experiences.
Joe Naiman Special to Valley News
The Water Quality Lab of the Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District provides sampling and analytical testing services to support the regulatory compliance and process control needs of the district’s Water and Wastewater Operations Department. The lab includes a Laboratory Information Management System, and a 5-0 EVMWD board vote on Feb. 13 approved upgraded software.
The board approved a professional services agreement with Accelerated Technology Laboratories, LLC. The North Carolina company will be paid $199,320.
The State Water Resources Control Board has an Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program, and the EVMWD Water Quality Lab is certified by that program. The certification facilitates regulatory compliance testing for many of the district’s essential water quality needs.
The certification also requires
that the lab comply with changes to the program’s regulations. Increased quality assurance and documentation needs are required to maintain regulatory compliance. The district will be upgrading the existing Laboratory Information Management System with a software solution based on modern technologies.
EVMWD staff issued a request for proposals, and three firms provided bids for a software solution for the Laboratory Information Management System. A review panel evaluated the proposals based on firm qualifications, experience, project understanding, company resources available to fulfill the scope of work, cost, and the overall proposal quality. The review panel determined Accelerated Technology Laboratories, LLC, to be the most qualified firm.
The board action authorized a total budget of $233,679 for the project which also covers $33,362 of EVMWD staff time and $997 for overhead.
Joe Naiman can be reached at jnaiman@reedermedia.com
The Southern California Corvette Club (SCCC) would like to invite Corvette car owners to our monthly lunch runs.
We are looking for new members all the time.
Text (619) 665-3999 for more information or email magerkurths@yahoo.com
“Our partnership with Mt. San Jacinto College is rooted in a shared commitment to empowering the future workforce. Together, we’re building bridges for students to access opportunities, develop professional skills, and contribute meaningfully to our community,” said Brooke Nunn, President/CEO of the Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce. “This award is a testament to the impact we can achieve when education and industry come together.”
Notable Contributions by TVCC include internship opportunities, panel discussions, education summits, and advocacy.
Internship Opportunities: The Chamber has hosted MSJC interns, helping students develop marketing and business administrative skills.
Panel Discussions: TVCC members and staff have participated in MSJC events to connect directly with students and share professional insights.
Education Summits: TVCC’s Valley Young Professionals Education Summit at the MSJC Temecula Campus has offered students access to valuable networking and learning opportunities.
Advocacy: TVCC is an active member of the Higher Education Coalition, working to bring fouryear degree programs to the Temecula Valley region.
During the award ceremony, attended by the MSJC Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, and regional business leaders, TVCC’s Chairman of the Board Jackie Steed, President/CEO Brooke Nunn, and the Chamber’s staff proudly accepted the honor. This recognition reflects the Chamber’s - longstanding commitment to strengthening the connection
between education and business within the region. MSJC has been a proud member of the Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce for over 31 years. About Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce
The Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce is a nonprofit organization based in Temecula.
The Mission of the Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce is to partner
with the business community to: Connect People, Solve Business Challenges, and Support BusinessFriendly Initiatives. To learn more about the Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce, please click here. For more information regarding upcoming events, please click here to view the events calendar or contact the Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce at 951-6765090 or email info@temecula.org
Diane A. Rhodes
Special to Valley News
The Lake Elsinore Valley Chamber of Commerce Student of the Month program, honoring students who make a difference in their schools and communities, held its February luncheon celebration at the Lakeside High School Lancer Round Table Café on Feb. 11. Lunch was prepared and served by members of the Lakeside Culinary Academy.
Program founder Sally Myers of BMW Management, emceed the event that has been held in Lake Elsinore for almost 30 years. She explained that the nonprofit program acknowledges and honors college or trade school-bound seniors for their character, love of learning and commitment to academics, in addition to participation in athletics, school activities and community service. It also commends those who have persevered through challenging life circumstances, all in a setting that honors God, country, family, community, and free enterprise.
Large tote bags filled with gifts, certificates of recognition and much more donated by the program’s sponsors were given to the award recipients. Each student received a commemorative medallion and was invited to the podium to share their personal story, past challenges and future goals with a room full of supporters that included principals, teachers, peers and family members, as well as community and school district dignitaries.
February’s students of the month are Elsinore High School’s Madelyn Engels and Aidan Morales, Keith McCarthy Academy’s Hiram Alfaro, Lakeside High School’s Rylee Baldwin and Eric Wilson, Ortega High School’s Madison Towne, and Temescal Canyon High School’s Brooke Easterly and Jordan Han.
Elsinore High School
Madelyn Engels was introduced by Principal Pauline Leavitt as a member of the tennis and track teams who is involved with the Sports Medicine program and HOSA. She boasts a 4.51 GPA, volunteers at the Wildomar Library and coordinates the school’s blood drives. Madelyn is constantly running from activity to activity and is big sister to four siblings. She said although things can be hectic, she thinks it has taught her to be a better leader. “In my freshman year, I was diagnosed with a chronic disease which has been really difficult to deal with,” Madelyn said. “Many of my assignments which led to my high GPA were completed from hospital beds. It’s been quite a journey but my goal for the next few years is to study at UCSD and eventually get a Ph.D. in psychology.” She wants to study psychology because she knows how it feels to have no one understand, and for children especially it can be really hard. “Part of emotional maturity is acceptance and every day I work towards embracing myself and my flaws,” Madelyn said. “It’s been a difficult journey and I wish to help guide others through it. Caring for others has been the best medicine for me. Teacher Robbie Harrison said, “Madelyn’s heart is as big as her dedication to others; she is always going out of her way to
make sure those around her feel supported and cared for.”
Aidan Morales was introduced by Principal Leavitt as a three-year varsity letterman in track. “Although he is quiet, he has integrity and fire,” she said. Aidan wants to attend UC, San Diego to earn his degree in aerospace or another STEM field. He enjoys cross country, track, and winter track which he said is technically not a sport, but he does it. “Cross country has really impacted me,” Aidan said. “I’ve learned so much from the people in it and I’ve learned everything can’t be done by yourself even though it is an individual sport, and you run by yourself.” He said a sign posted at the track field resonates with him when he sees it every day; the statement is: Tradition Never Graduates. Art teacher and soccer coach Jamie Metter shared that Aidan placed first at a recent art show and is working on a mural of inclusivity at the campus, reflecting his ambition to use art to bring people together and celebrate diversity. “This shows the power of focus and dedication,” she said. Keith McCarthy Academy singled out Hiram Alfaro as February’s honoree. Principal Peter Hopping shared that he met Hiram’s father Sergio in college where they played soccer together and belonged to the same fraternity. He said Hiram enrolled at KMA halfway through his freshman year to forge his own path in a fasterpaced learning environment. He is graduating a year early and plans to pursue his passion for animation.
“I cannot even begin to understand how I managed to get here,” Hiram said. “I am honored to be where I am right now.” He said the structure at KMA taught him proper time management which is an important skill he will continue to use in his future. “I plan to continue learning digital art, animation, and video editing,” Hiram said. “I want to create; it is my passion. I want to help the community, I want to entertain people, I want to inform people.” Counselor Frank Fravel said in his 20-plus years as a counselor he has never worked with anyone like Hiram. “He’s a true independent study student; he’s responsible, self-driven, prompt, intelligent, trustworthy, a good self-advocate and reliable,” he said.
Sergio said they held their son back one year when he was younger but instilled in him that there is no such thing as failure as FAIL is just the First Attempt In Learning.
Lakeside High School
Rylee Baldwin was introduced by Principal Jason Eldridge as a student whose accomplishments came with some challenges but she is an impactful leader on campus.
Rylee is on the golf, water polo, swim, and dance varsity teams and is in the Advanced Sports Med and PLUS programs. She is also on the school’s blood drive and Advisory committees. She said her dyslexia makes most academic tasks seem impossible and teachers have even given up on her, but she is grateful to have her mom and dad as her number-one cheerleaders. “I try to embrace challenges and learn from them,” Rylee said. She plans to attend Riverside Community College and study kinesiology to become an athletic trainer.
“Something I’ve learned and will always take with me is ‘don’t let the people that doubt you define you,’”
said. Teacher
has known Rylee for the past three years and nominated her because, “on paper, she’s an exceptional student – an athlete, a leader, and a committed team player. But it’s when you meet her in person that her true character really shines.”
Eric Wilson was selected as Lakeside’s February Student of the Month. He hopes to attend UC, San Diego to study either astrophysics or engineering with a goal of working at NASA or SpaceX. “Since we live in a STEM-oriented society, I feel a responsibility to contribute either as a scientist or engineer in the field,” he said. Eric is a member of AVID, Culture Club, and the Mad Scientist Club. He has been on the basketball team for three years. He competed in a NASA invention challenge and is currently competing in a national rocketry competition. “I’ve learned that I have to seize the moment; I’m not a perfect student but I always kept my foot on the pedal and pushed myself to do more,” Eric said. Teacher Lisa Ogden describes the senior as a compassionate, effective leader who takes the initiative to do things. He offered to be a peer tutor through AVID and showed himself to be nonjudgmental, caring and calm. His mother said his siblings look up to Eric and know that his big heart and humility will take him far.
Ortega High School chose to recognize Madison Towne this month. Principal Greg Cleave said, “At Ortega, we get to celebrate students who want to do something different.” He added that three different administrators put Madison’s name forward as Student of the Month. “I’m going to be honest with you, I didn’t think I would graduate before I came to Ortega,” she said. Being very credit deficient, she said she had teachers and family members telling her she wasn’t going to graduate because
she was so far behind. At the orientation she attended at Ortega, which she thought was a waste of her time, she heard a student with a similar story speak and it clicked, sparking new hope in her. “Look at me now; I’m graduating, and I’ve created such amazing bonds.” She plans to join the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department’s Mounted Posse Unit. English teacher Sonya Smith said, “Madison is a positive example of someone who has embraced prior setbacks and challenges and has used them as learning experiences to achieve academic success. Her positive attitude and bubbly personality light up the classrooms at Ortega.” Temescal Canyon High School Brooke Easterly was described by Temescal Canyon Principal Josh Hill as captain of the girls’ tennis team, part of the inaugural flag football program where she was named MVP, sprinter on the track team and Senior Class President. She plans to major in business at college. “At Temescal Canyon, I’ve had the privilege of participating in three sports and I’ve also served in ASB all four years,” she said. “Each of these experiences has shaped me into a unique person and they have taught me many things about myself and taught me leadership, teamwork and perseverance. But beyond the activities and adventures, the biggest lesson I’ve learned at TC is the importance of the people who surround you. Success is not just about individual achievement; it’s about having a support system. For a long time, I believed I had to do it all on my own. I thought that strength meant doing it alone and that success was a solo journey, but I quickly learned the opposite.”
Brooke said an important lesson she will take with her throughout her life is that success is not just about what you achieve on your own but about caring for those around you
and allowing those who care about you to be there for you in return.
“The relationships we build and the people we lean on are truly what makes life meaningful,” she said.
Jordan Han was introduced by Principal Hill as an International Baccalaureate student who is vice president of the Asian Student Union and is a member of the California Scholarship Federation, Key Club, National Honor Society, and the Interact and Fashion clubs.
Jordan said he was shocked to learn he was receiving this award and watched past Student of the Month videos to see how other recipients had acted because he didn’t want to embarrass himself. Then he came to the realization of how common it is for people to act a certain way to avoid being judged negatively. “I get that, but I want you to understand the most fundamental truth about people –the truth is, everyone is so focused on themselves and has their own lives to live and none of them can sacrifice time in their day to care about something minuscule that you might have done so just be yourself. You will learn more about yourself once you love being you. Live every day being your most authentic self,” Jordan said. Christine Lofquist is his IB English teacher and advisor for the Asian Student Union. She said he wants to go into the field of psychiatry because he wants to take care of people’s hearts and minds. “I feel he has really transformed our campus. Being a part of ASU and watching him bring cultural awareness to that population of students – a place of love and acceptance and recognition – has been a really awesome thing,” she said. For more information on the program, please contact Kim Joseph Cousins at 951-245-8848 or Donna Romo at Donnajromo@aol.com
The SAGE Society of Hemet
invites the community to an insightful presentation titled “The Inspiration Behind the Hemet Unified School District Arts Programs” on Tuesday, March 11. This event will feature Tina Batchelder-Schwab, the Visual and Performing Arts Coordinator for the Hemet Unified School District, as she shares her journey, expertise, and vision for the district’s arts education. As the saying goes, “Where words fail, music speaks.” The power of the arts lies in their ability to express emotions and ideas beyond words, making them an essential part of a well-rounded education. Tina Batchelder-Schwab will discuss her background, what brought her to Hemet, and how the district’s arts programs have evolved in the postpandemic era. She will also provide insight into the funding sources that support these programs, including Proposition 28: The Arts and Music
in Schools Funding Guarantee and Accountability Act. In addition, she will highlight newly developed programs tailored to meet the needs of Hemet’s students and reflect the district’s cultural community. Attendees will gain an understanding of both the achievements and challenges facing arts education in California and beyond. Tina Batchelder-Schwab holds a Master of Music Education and a Bachelor of Music Education and Opera Performance from Ithaca College in New York. With 29 years of experience in the U.S. and abroad, she has served as a general music specialist, curriculum coordinator, Head of Music, and Head of Arts for both performing and visual disciplines. Her extensive career includes directing numerous musical productions such as Fiddler on the Roof, Into the Woods, Beauty and the Beast, and The King and I.
Since 2023, she has been dedicated to enhancing arts education in the Hemet Unified School District. Outside of her role in education, Tina is an accomplished soprano who enjoys performing opera and musical theatre and collaborating with fellow artists at a professional level.
The event will take place at The Ramona Room, located behind Miller-Jones Mortuary at 1501 W. Florida Avenue, Hemet. Social time begins at 1:30 p.m., followed by the presentation at 2 p.m. The public is welcome to attend. Parking is available at the rear of the venue.
The SAGE Society of Hemet (Search for Adventure in Greater Education) provides a platform for individuals to engage in intellectually stimulating programs and activities. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the impact of arts education and its future in the Hemet Unified School District.
San Jacinto Unified School District announced that Mountain View High School (MVHS) has been named a 2025 Model Continuation High School.
The announcement was made in a California Department of Education News Release on Feb. 19 in which State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond announced 74 schools throughout the state. Mountain View High was one of only four schools in Riverside County to receive the recognition.
MVHS primarily serves students in 10th through 12th grades who have had difficulty in traditional comprehensive high school settings or have experienced either personal and/or physical challenges that necessitate an alternative method of education. Therefore, credit production is a significant focus with most classes following a self-directed learning model. The school offers concurrent enrollment, a CTE video class, and AP computer science classes. Additionally, MVHS offers educational support for struggling students including English Language Learners,
Mountain View High School in San Jacinto was recognized as a Model Continuation High School by the California Department of Education. MVHS was one of four schools in Riverside County to earn the accolade.
Special Education students, and those in the GATE program.
Mountain View Alternative Schools
Principal Ken Swanson stated, “Our driver is to make our community a better place. As new students arrive, we accept them as they are and begin to build them up with the whole-student approach realizing the importance of Social
Valley News/Courtesy photos
Emotional Learning, Academics, Positive Behaviors and Routines, Self-esteem, and self-reliance. We help our students acquire the skills needed to navigate whatever unique pathway they choose.”
MVHS mainly serves students in 10th through 12th grades who are having difficulty in traditional comprehensive high school settings or have experienced challenges that necessitate an alternative method of education.
Swanson quickly went on to deflect the accolades to the entire school community and stated, “Mountain View High School is proud to receive the honor of being recognized as a Model Continuation High School. We received this recognition because of the students, families and staff that make Mountain View such a special place. MVHS Teacher Karin Lee deserves additional recognition for taking the lead on writing the required report and
The 7th annual Black History Month Celebration, hosted by the San Jacinto African American Advisory Council, SJUSD Equity and Access, and SJUSD was held on Feb. 8 at San Jacinto High School.
The free, three-hour event celebrated the rich traditions and enduring resilience of the Black community and featured SJUSD students, alumni, staff, and community members. Attendees
[Left] Members of San Jacinto High School’s Black Student Union perform at the 7th annual Black History Month Celebration, Feb. 8. Valley News/Courtesy photos
hosting the visiting Review Team.
“Miss Lee will represent Mountain View High School at the California Continuation Education Association conference in April, where the awards from the California Department of Education will be presented.”
enjoyed lively performances, delicious food, inspiring speakers, and vendors with valuable resources.
This annual celebration highlights the remarkable achievements of African Americans recognizes their pivotal contributions to shaping U.S. history and pays tribute to those who have paved the way. Contributed content.
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I very much feel for the people of both countries losing so many lives and experiencing any destruction. I think Zelensky made some fair points about his people’s fears of long-term security. Still, I found it interesting that no one brought up how NATO continually broke its agreements with Russia to keep Ukraine and other border nations neutral and out of NATO which often prompted Russia’s invasions.
VP Harris even spoke of Ukraine joining NATO before the war started. There is much history between Ukraine and Russia, including blood relations, so this war is very complex to understand. For Russia, all these border countries that promised not to join NATO after the war are akin to Cuba, Canada, Mexico, etc., joining in values and aligning
themselves with Communism. We have long-standing policies like the Monroe Doctrine protecting the Western Hemisphere (the Americas) from that type of activity be it European Colonization or Communist Countries, etc. While Putin can be a ruthless dictator, Zelensky is no angel either and has persecuted, jailed, and silenced many religious people and other Russian Ukrainians for practicing their faith traditions or exercising their freedom of speech. Plus, Zelensky and his administration have halted elections until war is over and there are questions as to whether he was possibly originally installed as President rather than truly elected.
I hope everyone involved wants peace with lasting security, but sometimes, you have to take
baby steps toward that goal. Trump is trying to get Zelensky to understand this by starting with the cease-fire. He can’t say anything about America providing troops long-term because then Russia would not agree to the cease-fire.
But if you read between the lines he was saying as long as we have American companies and people over there digging for rare earth minerals under his watch, Putin is not likely to attack and the Trump Administration would protect their interests and protect Ukraine from another attack.
Trump cannot guarantee anything past his administration because other Presidents and NATO can break any agreement made in a variety of subtle or obvious ways. But it is very clear while Trump is President peace
Joe Naiman Special to Valley News
There is a difference between homosexuals, homosexuality, and the gay political agenda. Acceptance of homosexual people does not require approval of their lifestyle or support for any specific political position. That is also the case for the transgender. The agenda being pushed by the transgender community and their supporters is hindering acceptance of transgender people which has actually happened in the past.
A few years ago a suburban weekly newspaper had a Generation Y column written by a student at a local high school. In one of his columns the student claimed that Americans were beginning to accept the transgender in motion pictures. I didn’t take issue with the acceptance but rather with the use of “beginning to” because I’m old enough to have seen The Rocky Horror Picture Show when it was
playing at the Parkway Theater in El Cajon. Those of us who watched The Rocky Horror Picture show accepted the transgenderism and the sibling incest in the movie. The only agenda The Rocky Horror Picture Show had was to make a profit.
It is ironic that the push to allow biological men in women’s restrooms peaked in spring 2016 because other groups were celebrating some past transgender activity. Various groups were commemorating the 400th anniversary of the death of playwright William Shakespeare, who died in April 1616 (May 1616 in the Gregorian calendar currently used). During Shakespeare’s time there were no female actresses so males played the likes of Lady Macbeth, Ophelia, Desdemona, and Juliet. The commemoration of the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death was an opportunity to celebrate transgender history. My willingness to use Julius
Caesar and Mark Antony’s bathroom regardless of whether my friends and countrymen lend me their ears does not prevent me from recognizing that many male actors dressed as women for Shakespeare’s plays. For the transgender establishment, it was about the agenda rather than about actual transgender history which was accepted.
The reluctance to celebrate the transgenderism associated with William Shakespeare likely wasn’t due to its acceptance in dead white male history. The politicians the transgender establishment courted were probably deterred by the Henry VI, Part II line “The first thing we do, let’s kill all the lawyers.” When the politicians aren’t involved the benefits of accommodating the transgender are taken into a larger context.
The California Interscholastic Federation is the governing body of high school sports in California. In 2013 the CIF San Diego Section adopted a policy to determine whether an alleged transgender athlete is eligible to play in a sport of that athlete’s self-identified gender rather than of the athlete’s birth gender. The vote was unanimous, which means that even the representatives of
is his goal around the world. Putin understands Trump won’t allow Americans or our interests to be attacked without an attack back which gives Ukraine its future security and Putin also gets the security he wants which is Ukraine staying neutral not joining NATO. I would encourage people to read more history about these countries and their leaders to better understand yesterday’s conversation and spat before passing judgment. Both have legitimate points, but different paths to securing lasting peace.
It is people like Liz Cheney who are willing to tolerate forever wars since there is a conflict of interest and her family’s companies profit greatly from those wars. President Trump is doing all he can to keep this from becoming World War
Christian schools supported it.
One reason for the support of the CIF’s policy on transgender athletes was the establishment of a panel to ensure that a boy truly identified as a girl rather than desired to use the policy to play girl’s sports. The other reason is that the gender identity policy benefited not only the transgender such as Renee Richards, Caitlyn Jenner, and Lia Thomas but also the hermaphrodites such as Stella Walsh and Caster Semenya. In 2013 Catilyn Jenner was still Bruce Jenner, Lia Thomas was still William Thomas, and Caster Semenya was unknown at the international level so the references focused on Renee Richards, the tennis player who was Richard Raskind prior to the sex change operation, and Stella Walsh, the Olympic sprinter who was born with an external female sex organ and an internal male sex organ. It is likely that Richard Raskind would have dominated girls tennis had girls high school sports existed at the time. It is proven that Stella Walsh dominated women’s track and field at the local level. That might have been a disadvantage to female athletes with no male chromosomes, but it is no different than a high school girl over six
III and from crossing the ocean so much so he won’t even allow the words that the USA may feel it to be uttered in his presence. He rightly refused to receive that negative pronouncement of our country’s future and stopped the conversation from Zelensky from going any further in that direction. He is focused on positive results and securing peace for all now, which will hopefully lead to longlasting peace later. But in this case, you have to start with getting peace first. Otherwise, it will be an ongoing losing battle, especially for Ukraine and possibly much of the world.
With hope for a brighter future for the World,
feet tall having an advantage in basketball or volleyball. The sports people at the CIF, who understood birth-based advantage, considered the benefits to the hermaphrodites as well as the transgender.
The Paralympics, disabled veterans games, and other sports for the physically impaired often have divisions based on the degree of paralysis or missing limbs. Ideally this would be the solution for transgender and hermaphrodite athletes, who would have their own divisions. The reality is that high schools and many colleges don’t have the funding veterans’ organizations and the International Olympic Committee have, so at this point, hermaphrodites and the transgender have to compete in girl’s sports at the scholastic and youth levels.
The push by the transgender establishment and their supporters for acceptance of biological men in women’s sports doesn’t include the benefit to the hermaphrodites. For the transgender activists, it’s all about themselves.
There are reasons to accept the transgender, but as long as it’s about an agenda rather than an acceptance that acceptance will be reluctant.
Caltrans closures currently impacts drivers and Gov. Newsom announces climate-focused transportation plan
Tony Ault Staff Writer
California Governor Gavin Newsom announced the release of the Climate Action Plan for Transportation Infrastructure (CAPTI) 2.0, building on the successes of CAPTI 1.0 and identifying 14 new key actions to further reduce harmful emissions released into the environment.
CAPTI 2.0 confronts longstanding inequities, prioritizing benefits for all Californians — including the most vulnerable communities — while ensuring the state remains on track to meet its ambitious climate goals. according to Newsom.
“We have a responsibility to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the worst-case scenarios of climate change –and we must act quickly and purposefully,” said Newsom. “California will persist in its investment of mobility options that are sustainable, convenient, seamless and affordable while also connecting our communities throughout the state.”
Since its release in July 2021, CAPTI has guided billions of discretionary transportation dollars toward investments that aggressively combat and adapt to climate change. All 34 original CAPTI actions were completed in just three years, well ahead of schedule. As a result, key state transportation programs now generate just one-fifth of the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions
compared to emission levels prior to this administration.
“For three straight years, implementation of CAPTI actions has shown that with intentional action through our infrastructure investments, we can make huge strides in tackling transportation emissions,” said California Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin. “Under the leadership of Governor Gavin Newsom, and with the partnership of community stakeholders, we reaffirm our commitment to a cleaner, more sustainable transportation system with CAPTI 2.0.”
The launch of CAPTI 2.0 introduces 14 new key actions to further reduce emissions and promote sustainable transportation, including a commitment to working towards Vehicle Miles Traveled/Greenhouse Gas (VMT/ GHG) neutrality in key state transportation programs and the creation of a central delivery team to coordinate zero-emission freight investments.
RCTC announcement
Meanwhile, the Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC) is advising motorists traveling on southbound 71 in Chino and Chino Hills to be prepared for weeknight full closures beginning Monday, March 3. Southbound 71 will be closed at Butterfield Ranch Rd./ Euclid Ave, Monday through Friday nights, beginning March 3 through March 28. The southbound 71 to eastbound and westbound 91 connectors will also be closed.
The closures are scheduled to take place from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m., Monday through Thursday nights, and 11:59 p.m. to 6 a.m. on Friday nights. The nighttime closures are needed as part of RCTC’s 71/91 Interchange Project and will allow construction crews to safely remove support structures from the recently constructed new sections of the connector. Additional nighttime lane reduction configurations on eastbound and westbound 91 may also occur during these nightly closures.
To avoid lengthy traffic delays, motorists are highly advised to avoid the southbound 71 and use southbound 57 or southbound I-15 to reach the 91 and other destinations located to the south.
Menifee/Murrieta
California Transportation Department (Caltrans) crews are scheduled to work on both the southbound and northbound directions of Interstate 215. The project aims to improve the road surface, update shoulder rumble strips, enhance culverts, upgrade guardrails, stabilize slopes, and boost highway worker safety along the stretch near Murrieta, from 1 mile north of Clinton Keith Road to 1 mile north of Newport Road. All work is dependent on the contractor receiving proper materials for each job function. It can be changed or canceled at any time. Commuter access will remain available during daytime work. Plan for some delays. Lane closures will be necessary
throughout the project zone for any night work. Drivers should anticipate traffic delays and plan ahead. Watch for signage alerting motorists of the construction zone.
Perris
Caltrans sees smoother pavement and safer driving conditions will await travelers when a major pavement rehabilitation project on Interstate 215 in Perris is completed. Work crews began project operations on October 14, 2024 Commuters will experience slowdowns and road closures until fall 2026
That project is scheduled to take place Monday through Friday in the daytime from 6:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The daytime work is scheduled at various locations in both northbound and southbound directions within the project area. Lane closures will not be required for landscaping and highway rebar work.
Lake Elsinore
Caltrans is alerting the public that construction contractors are continuing with emergency work requiring daytime flagging and lane closure operations on State Route 74 (SR-74) near Lake Elsinore, weather permitting. Contractors will conduct repairs from Grand Avenue to Decker Canyon Road near El Cariso Village. Daytime flagging will occur from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., dependent on contractor availability.
This work is all part of an emergency project to repair damages sustained from the recent
Airport Fire. Work will initially occur to clear drainage and remove trees for the safety of drivers and the roadway. Caltrans asks drivers to please be mindful when passing through the construction zone. Flagging operations are scheduled to occur at daytime hours at various locations. This may cause delays, so plan ahead, as flagging will be performed in both directions and may take up to 15- minutes of wait time per side. Please reduce your speed when near work areas for the safety of crews and other drivers on the route. Signage will be placed ahead to indicate approaching roadway work.
Aguanga to Beaumont
Caltrans alerts the public that work will continue to install guardrails and flashing beacons at various locations on State Route 79 (SR-79) in Riverside County’s Aguanga area. The project work locations are near Aguanga and Beaumont. Construction costs for this project are $6.3M and include safety features to install flashing beacons at two locations for improved driver alertness. Currently, the work is occurring near Beaumont during the daytime hours Monday through Friday from 5 a.m. to 2 p.m., and may include moving land closure to allow for k-rail placement, guardrail installations, and vegetative control operations. Once that is complete the work will move into the Aguanga area’s SR-79. Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com
Spring Climate Change possibilities may call for new planning and preparation by local residents
Increasing temperatures could bring more drought
Tony Ault Staff Writer
While the National Weather Service is reporting the possibility of higher and longer temperature events coming this spring along with some heavy rains, the longer-term possibilities are being discussed by national meteorologists and scientists.
Many weather reporting agencies, along with environmental scientists, are reporting a serious climate change in the world is taking place. They are seeing it mainly caused by an alarming rise in air and sea temperatures reported in the last two or three decades worldwide.
The question is what is causing this worldwide rise in temperatures?
In a recent webinar directed at journalists across the nation and the world called “Covering Climate Now” reported on the nation’s recent weather-related disasters like fires, floods, landslides, tornados, and hail that are increasing particularly in the southeastern United States with record-breaking cold snaps in the northern tier of the nation.
The impact on millions of Americans, according to the webinar panel, has not been reported as well as it should be with a warning of the continuing
changes that will affect the nation in the spring.
The panelists on the webinar included: Dr. Maria Molina from the University of Maryland; Kiley Price, Inside Climate News, Reporter; David Dickson, TV Engagement Coordinator, “Covering Climate Now”; and Shel Winkley, Weather & Climate Engagement Specialist, Climate Central.
Dr. Molina explained the rising temperature nationwide has been slightly over 2.5 degrees since 1970 which has had the effect of higher springtime temperatures,
The rise in the temperature creates more heat rising from the earth into the atmosphere where it meets much colder temperatures.
The connection with hot and cold causes moisture to form. The warmer the temperature the more moisture is created to the point where water droplets are formed.
The larger the droplets the heavier they get until they turn to rain and drop back to the earth. The effect may cause wind as well bringing updrafts. The higher the droplets go into the updrafts there is more of a chance ice crystals will form.
The higher the crystals go, they too become large forming hail.
The more crystals joining bring larger hailstones that will either fall or turn into snow as they hit the warmer temperature.
This result, with the higher ground temperatures, much formed by the increase in carbon and sulfur molecules in specks of dirt, dust or salt, picked up in the updraft bringing rain. (02 to H02 rain or H2S04 acid rain). The carbon or sulfur particles are mainly coming from fossil fuels being burned by the human element, or natural phenomena like volcanos and forest fires, which have both increased in recent decades.
Molina pointed out that there has been a change in the weather patterns in the nation because of the warming climate bringing more moisture up from the south and pushing into the Southeastern states, thus, bringing more large rainstorms, hail, tornados and the resulting floods and landslides.
She said in the rainy weather super cells of moisture are created bringing the higher winds and heavier rains and tornadoes. Those, fortunately, do not last very long, but can cause great damage to farmlands and suburban communities when they are raging.. Urban areas are also affected by the resulting flooding. The supercells are most common in the months of February, March and April, according to Molina, These changes may be more adversely affecting the mid, southeastern and eastern sections
of the nation but other problems are being faced in the western and northwestern states that are experiencing droughts, heavy winds, wildfires, landslides and fast melting snowpacks, according to Dickson.
Riverside and San Diego counties have had fewer unusual weather events, but the coming spring may bring more severe weather events as our temperatures climb. The climate changes may bring more supercells in rainstorms, which might be expected to bring high winds and heavy rainfall, but in the long term the warming climate will bring more drought conditions during the warmer summers and fall. Those weather changes are seen by Molina and Price.
The other problem facing the mountain communities is the rapidly melting snowpacks bringing possible flooding in both those mountain communities and in the valleys below. The wildfire burned areas may be facing both flooding and landslides.
Molina and the weather experts say that many people are really not prepared for such occurrences and should pay more attention to their own safety and properties. What is recommended?
Keep up with the legitimate weather forecasts in your area, like the U.S. Weather Service, and be aware of the warnings given by
these agencies on cell phones. In rainy weather, it may be wise to have ready-to-fill sandbags on hand which can be obtained in bad weather from fire departments and public safety facilities in your area.
Trim or remove any dead or dying large trees near your homes because of the high winds often coming with any major rainstorms or in our area the Santa Ana Winds.
As temperatures rise and the area foothills and mountains begin to dry, be watchful of any fire hazard warnings, keeping fireplace chimneys screened and cleaned. Follow the advice of local community or county fire officials about keeping your home fire safe. Clear dry brush and trees next to or near your home.
A more recent problem in southern California has been utility companies making Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) during extremely dry or windy weather, which could happen again as summer approaches. These may last for days so be prepared for them with plenty of batteries, flashlights, and lanterns. and when possible, have a generator standing by.
Have an emergency disaster plan in place for your family and go bags for members of the family and pets.
Tony Ault can be reached at tault@reedermedia.com
