Donald Trump spoke before an estimated 150,000 people gathered at the National Mall on the evening of the Fourth of July to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States of America.
“We’re celebrating freedom’s triumph over tyranny, liberty’s conquest over oppression, and the enduring victory of the American spirit—from July 4, 1776, to July 4, 2026,” the president said. see page
Gilmore, McGill make San Diego County Fair racing debuts
Joe Naiman for the Valley News
The final week of the San Diego County Fair includes junior class racing, and this year Wildomar ten-year-old Marshall Gilmore and Hemet six-year-old Zeppelin McGill made their county fair racing debuts.
The junior races took place three times each day from July 1 to July 5. Gilmore raced twice each day. McGill raced twice July 1, once July 4, and twice July 5.
“It’s really fun,” Gilmore said.
society Opinion
Unchecked govt. power is the antithesis of a
free
When the U.S. Supreme Court ruled recently that law enforcement’s use of geofence warrants to obtain historical cellphone location data constitutes a search under the Fourth Amendment, it sent a clear message: modern technology cannot be allowed to erode constitutional protections simply because it makes surveillance easier.
250 yrs >101°; high temps do not deter USA 250 celebration
PHILADELPHIA—Despite temperatures approaching 100 degrees Fahrenheit, thousands of visitors gathered at Independence Mall in the birthplace of the United States on July 3 to celebrate America’s founding principles—life, liberty, and faith—on its 250th anniversary.
see page B-7 see page B-6
Rose Haven Heritage Garden Celebrates Anniversary
As of 2026, Temecula’s Rose Haven Heritage Garden is set to celebrate its 35th anniversary of “Beauty and Community Engagement” Oct. 16-18. The garden plans to celebrate through festivities including local partnerships, community events, and social media campaigns.
The garden is owned and run by the Temecula Valley Rose Society, a nonprofit since the 1990s that fosters the cultivation and admiration of roses. It is a 3.4-acre public ground containing over 2,000 roses, trails, and a koi pond.
Barona Speedway’s junior racing includes a Masters Mini-Dwarf division for drivers 9 through 14 (driver ages utilize the birthday prior to or during the current race season) and a Sportsman MiniDwarf class for ages 6 through 8. Gilmore began his racing career this year in the Masters MiniDwarf class. As a five-year-old last year McGill could race So Cal Quarter Midget Association competition at the Perris Raceway flat track and drove a Quarter Midget, and now that he is old enough to race at Barona Speedway he races a Sportsman Mini-Dwarf there while continuing to compete in Quarter Midgets races in Perris. Gilmore moved from Lakeside to Wildomar a year ago and was in fourth grade at Springs Charter during the 2025-26 school year. His cousin Mavrick Matthews, who lives in El Cajon, began racing at Barona Speedway in 2022 and is currently the 2026 season
Volcano Fire prompts evacuations, road closures, coordinated e ort
Firefighters battled the fast-moving Volcano Fire west
Planning Commission approves tentative tract map for 120-lot Winchester Hills development
Joe Naiman for the Valley News
A tentative tract map including 120 residential lots on a 26.94-acre Winchester Hills property was approved by the County of Riverside’s Planning Commission.
The Planning Commission voted 4-0 June 24, with Bill Sanchez absent, to approve the tentative map. The land is within the Winchester Hills Specific Plan area, and the Planning Commission also found that the Environmental Impact Report for the specifi c plan adequately analyzed the project and no subsequent circumstances would require additional documentation.
The site is south of Olive Av-
enue, north of Salt Creek, east of Leon Road, and west of Rice Road. It has a Medium Density Residential (2-5 dwelling units per acre) land use designation, which would allow for a total of 134 lots. The minimum lot size is 6,000 square feet, and all of the residential lots would be at least 6,005 square feet. Four open space lots along with the 120 residential lots would be created should the tentative tract map become a fi nal map, which would happen after all conditions are met other than those for which a recorded fi nal map is required.
The Winchester Hills Specific Plan was approved by the Riverside County Board of Supervisors in 1997.
Supervisors allocate CID funding for Western Science Center, VNW Circle of Care, Temecula Chamber, Habitat for Humanity
Joe Naiman for the Valley News
The June 23 meeting of the Riverside County Board of Supervisors included the approval of Community Improvement Designation grants for the Western Science Center, VNW Circle of Care, the Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce, and Habitat for Humanity Inland Valley.
The motion to allocate the CID funding was passed on a 5-0 vote. The Western Science Center and VNW Circle of Care, Inc., will each receive $10,000; the Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce was awarded $1,700, and Habitat for Humanity Inland Valley was allocated $1,000.
Community Improvement Designation grants can be allocated to non-profit organizations, public
Zeppelin McGill during a post-race autograph session.
Photo: The Volcano Fire plume was seen from miles around, even 30 minutes into the event. Valley News/Kim Harris photo Bella Kent and Julie Reeder
of Murrieta on Tuesday after the wildfire grew to what was estimated to be between 78 and
JULY
Plateau Palooza Debuts at the Santa Rosa Plateau, Reimagining
Beloved Summer Tradition
Five-week celebration of music, art, food and community benefits youth nature education
MURRIETA - A beloved summer tradition at the Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve has been reimagined as Plateau Palooza, a five-week celebration of live music, fine art, specialty food and community—all benefiting youth nature education programs throughout Southwest Riverside County.
Presented by The Nature Education Foundation, Plateau Palooza builds on the legacy of the reserve’s longtime summer art and concert series with new experiences, expanded programming and an enhanced festival atmosphere.
Guests can enjoy live performances spanning multiple musical genres, an expanded juried art exhibition featuring established artists alongside emerging high school scholastic artists, and an elevated culinary experience with specialty wines, limoncello, craft beer, mocktails and a rotating
lineup of gourmet food trucks. The series officially launched June 27 with its new signature opening event, Lemonade & Canvas, an immersive evening featuring a gourmet picnic dinner, live entertainment by Jason Weber and a curated outdoor art exhibition set amid the scenic beauty of the Santa Rosa Plateau. Designed to encourage guests to “sip, savor and create,” the event introduced a fresh, interactive experience while marking another milestone: for the first time in the art show’s 26-year history, works by local high school scholastic artists are being featured alongside professional artists.
The celebration continues with four themed concert evenings showcasing a variety of musical styles: July 11 : James Kelly Band –Southern rock and country July 18: Cheeze Whiz – Favorite hits from the ‘80s
July 25: The 1969 Band – Music of the legendary Woodstock era Aug. 1: Pushin’ Daisies – Classic rock favorites Proceeds from Plateau Palooza support The Nature Education Foundation’s mission to inspire young people to appreciate, protect and preserve the natural world by providing hands-on outdoor education experiences for thousands of students each year throughout Southwest Riverside County.
“Plateau Palooza is about bringing people together in one of Southern California’s most beautiful natural settings while creating meaningful opportunities for local youth,” said Executive Director Ginger Greaves. “It’s a celebration of art, music, community and the next generation of environmental stewards.”
General admission, season passes and VIP tickets are available at www.tnefplateaupalooza.
org.
Attendance is limited, and tickets are available now. A limited number of sponsorship opportunities also remain and will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
About The Nature Education Foundation
The Nature Education Foundation is dedicated to educating and inspiring young people to appreciate, preserve and protect the natural environment through hands-on outdoor learning experiences at the Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve and throughout Southwest Riverside County.
President Launches Trump Accounts for Children With
Historic Opening of NYSE, Nasdaq
Parents can enroll their children online and monitor investments on a new app.
Travis Gillmore Epoch Times
WASHINGTON—President
Donald Trump rang a specially designed bell to simultaneously open the New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq during an Oval Office ceremony on July 6 to launch accounts for children across the nation.
“After a truly historic weekend celebrating the 250th anniversary of America, today we’re thrilled to officially launch the Trump Accounts,” the president said.
“Children can, at the age of 18 and after, become very wealthy people. Come into the world with essentially no money, and end up at a pretty young age being very rich, and that’s something that we wanted to do.”
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent opened the ceremony and encouraged parents to take advantage of the newly launched investment opportunity to benefit their children.
Family, friends, and employers can contribute up to $5,000 annually to the tax-advantaged accounts. They are held in the child’s name, with parents as cus-
todians, until the minor turns 18, at which point the young adults gain full control. Contributions are after-tax, although investments grow tax-deferred.
Maximum contributions could result in more than $1 million in accounts by the time the account holder turns 28, according to a Council of Economic Advisers estimate. If held until retirement, the amount could grow to several million dollars.
“We’re giving this money to children, so they can have a good life very early on,” Trump said.
Children’s eligibility is determined by birth year, with all Americans born between Jan. 1, 2025, and Dec. 31, 2028, set to receive $1,000 deposits from the Treasury Department. Funds are automatically invested in stock index funds, primarily tied to the S&P 500, with no fees to open accounts and low asset management costs.
Funding for the initiative was included in the comprehensive One Big Beautiful Bill Act passed last year. The rollout was made possible through public and private partnerships.
A 50-state challenge seeks to
raise money from philanthropists and charitable organizations to expand the program.
“The American dream belongs to every child, and today we are equipping the next generation with the right to claim their rightful share of it,” Bessent said.
“This will be one of the president’s most enduring legacies, and the great bounty of this will go for generations to come.”
Approximately 30 percent of Americans are without stock market investments, a number that will shrink over time thanks to the new accounts, he said, noting that 6 million children have already signed up.
The Treasury Department released details of the plan to deposit seed money in March.
Parents can visit TrumpAccounts.gov to learn more and register their children, and investment tracking is available in a newly launched app.
“So today, with the ringing of the opening bell for the stock market, those accounts will now begin to grow right along with our booming economy,” Trump said, noting that $800 million of new investments will benefit
children this week.
“And I really believe we’re going to have the biggest boom of all right now.”
He said the new accounts “are about giving every American child a stake in America’s future and getting some of the upside.”
“We’re giving this money to children, so they can have a good life very early on,” he said.
Michael and Susan Dell donated $6.25 billion to seed investments for 25 million Americans born between 2016 and 2024.
“You know, 42 years ago I started a company in my dorm room with $1,000 and today every newborn American child will start their life with $1,000 invested in America’s greatest companies, compounding for the future,” Michael Dell said.
“But Susan and I didn’t want the children that were born just before to be completely left out.”
Deposits were made for approximately 1.4 million children moments after the bell rang, with recipients meant to benefit from advanced financial literacy, in addition to the monetary gains.
The funds could help future students attend college debt-free,
or the accounts could grow substantially over time if recipients decide to continue investing.
“I would recommend they probably don’t take it out, but they can have a lot of money, especially if the market continues,” Trump said.
The occasion marked two historic moments, with the competing stock exchanges opened jointly in the Oval Office for the first time.
“Hopefully it won’t be the last,” Trump said. “I think [there are] a lot of things you could do together that would be good.”
The president has championed stock market successes throughout his second term, highlighting records set across equity markets and promising more to come as his deregulatory agenda unfolds.
“It’s going to go up,” Trump said. “I think the market’s going to go through the roof.”
Major indices responded positively to the news: The New York Stock Exchange topped 53,000 for the first time ever, and the Nasdaq climbed by slightly less than 1 percent.
Illegal fireworks ignite brush fire in Murrieta; suspect arrested, officials say
A person was arrested Saturday after allegedly setting off illegal fireworks that ignited a vegetation fire behind the Greer Ranch community, according to the Murrieta Police Department and Murrieta Fire & Rescue.
Authorities said offi cers responded during the morning after receiving multiple 911 calls reporting someone lighting fireworks in a field. The fireworks sparked a brush fire that burned about one-quarter acre before Murrieta Fire & Rescue firefighters contained it. No injuries were reported.
As officers responded, the Murrieta Police Department’s Drone as First Responder program launched a drone that quickly located both the suspect and the fi re. Offi cials said the live aerial video allowed officers and firefighters to assess the fire’s location, size and rate of spread while providing real-time updates throughout the incident. Offi cers located illegal fi reworks at the scene, and the suspect admitted to lighting them and causing the fire, authorities said. An arson investigator re-
sponded to continue the investigation, and the suspect was arrested and booked into county jail. Authorities did not immediately release the suspect’s identity or the specific charges.
Officials estimated the cost of the Murrieta Fire & Rescue response alone at more than $7,000, not including the cost of the police response or the arson investigation. Authorities said individuals responsible for illegal fireworks incidents may face both criminal charges and financial liability for emergency response costs.
The incident comes after Murrieta officials spent the past two weeks warning residents about the dangers of illegal fireworks as hot, dry conditions increase wildfire risk.
Police and fire officials said they planned to increase patrols Saturday night to enforce illegal fi reworks laws throughout the city.
Authorities urged residents to report illegal fireworks through the city’s online reporting portal unless there is an active fire, injury or immediate threat to
Murrieta Fire & Rescue respond to vegetation fire from illegal fireworks. Valley News/Courtesy photo
life, in which case they should call 911. Officials said using the online reporting system helps keep emergency dispatch lines available for life-threatening incidents.
WASHINGTON—President Donald Trump spoke before an estimated 150,000 people gathered at the National Mall on the evening of the Fourth of July to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States of America.
“We’re celebrating freedom’s triumph over tyranny, liberty’s conquest over oppression, and the enduring victory of the American spirit—from July 4, 1776, to July 4, 2026,” the president said.
Trump said that an estimated 375,000 people had gathered for the Salute to America 250 celebration before organizers issued an evacuation order at about 7 p.m. ahead of a gathering thunderstorm. Many spectators were unable to return for the celebration because of the delays.
Trump insisted that the proceedings continue despite the stormy weather.
At 11 p.m., the celebrations began with American tenor Christopher Macchio’s singing of “Ave Maria” and “Nessun Dorma.” Country music singer Lee Greenwood also performed before introducing the president for his speech.
“For two and a half centuries, our American republic has stood as the crowning achievement of human history,” the president said in his opening remarks.
“This country is the home of freedom, this is the land of liberty, and this is a flag that’s the banner of the most extraordinary, most exceptional, most incredible nation ever to exist on the face of the earth. And we’re doing better now than we’ve ever done before.”
“No people have done more good, shown more courage, made more progress, righted more injustice, or achieved more greatness than you—the American people,” he said. “For 250 years, the United States of America has
been the hope, the promise, the light, and the glory among all of the nations of the world. All over the world, they try and be like us. Nobody can be like us. And with God’s help, we will always be this, or even better.”
The president continued with stories of how America’s “forward march of freedom” continues for a nation that today is “stronger, freer, richer, safer, and prouder than ever before.” He said this was only because of the “miracle of history” that was the Declaration of Independence, signed by 56 patriotic delegates from the 13 colonies who “seized a victory for the ages.”
“[They] summoned the courage of giants and the wisdom of centuries to boldly proclaim these timeless truths,” the president said. “They declared that all men are created equal, that they are endowed with sacred, unalienable rights by the hand of our creator, and that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”
Trump honored the nation’s warriors on stage. He was joined on stage by Medal of Honor recipient Col. Paris Davis, 87, who was recognized for his extraordinary heroism during a battle in the Vietnam War in 1965; Capt. Ken Schubring, 104, who fought for Japan’s unconditional surrender after surviving the Dec. 7, 1941, Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor; Navy Lt. Arthur Rose, 107, who led landings on D-Day in 1944; Marine Cpl. Don Graves, 101, who was one of only 18 to survive the brutal Battle of Iwo Jima; Marine Cpl. Pat Finn, 94, and Marine Corps Pfc. Private First Class Rudy Meekins, 95, who fought against communism in the Korean War; and Capt. Lloyd “Sonny” Ray, recipient of the Silver Star Medal of valor in combat for leading his unit in the Vietnam War against an enemy many times their size.
The president thanked them for vanquishing fascism and standing “against the evil of communism in the Cold War.”
“America will never be a communist country,” Trump said. “Communism is a loser, and it always will be. The communist system is the opposite of the American system, and the communist system has never worked. Our warriors did not fight communism on battlefields across the world only to have that menace rear its ugly head right back here in America. We’re not going to let it happen.”
NASA’s Artemis 2 crew; Apollo astronaut Harrison “Jack” Schmitt, 90; 11 Gold Star family members; and Maj. Kyle Key, descendant of Francis Scott Key, who wrote the poem that became “The Star-Spangled Banner,” were also recognized by the president before the national anthem was played.
The president then announced the start of the evening’s fireworks display, accompanied by the Joint Armed Forces Orchestra and live musical performances.
The event schedule promised that the night sky would glow for about 40 minutes, during which approximately 850,000 pyrotechnic shells would be launched from the reflecting pool near the Lincoln Memorial, West Potomac Park, and barges floating on the Potomac River, setting a world record for the most fireworks launched in a single display. The show is estimated to cost about six times the amount normally budgeted for Fourth of July fireworks in the district, based on wholesale prices of approximately $1.5 million or more for such elaborate displays.
Evacuation and Delays
Earlier in the evening, organizers ordered crowds to evacuate as thunderstorms gathered nearby.
The president’s speech was
delayed after organizers issued an evacuation order at about 7 p.m.
Organizers then said in an update just after 9 p.m. that the National Mall would reopen to spectators at 9:45 p.m., and the president’s speech was scheduled for 11 p.m.
“Storms bring luck to whatever the occasion,” Trump wrote in a post on Truth Social before his speech. “They also make events a little bit more exciting!”
“I don’t care if it’s 2:00 O’Clock in the morning, or in one hour from now ... LETS HAVE SOME FUN,” he wrote.
“Our great veterans, especially the old timers, many of whom are there, went through hellfire, and it didn’t stop them,” Trump said.
“I’m not going to let some rain stop our 250th. I’m leaving the White House soon. God Bless America!”
Salute to America
Military aircraft flyovers set a patriotic tone throughout the day, beginning at 1:15 p.m. ET with an appearance from NASA’s F-5 aircraft. Precision formation performances from the Air Force Thunderbirds and the Navy Blue Angels, performances by the Golden Knight and Leap Frog parachute teams, and a flyover from the president’s newly redesigned Air Force One were among the highlights of the day.
Demonstrations were scheduled every 10 to 20 minutes until 8:22 p.m. ET, and a final B-1 flyby roared overhead moments before the fireworks show kicked off at midnight.
Elements of the day’s schedule were canceled or adapted to protect participants and guests from the sweltering heat affecting the region. Triple-digit temperatures and high humidity forced the cancellation of the annual Independence Day Parade, and postponements also affected the Great State Fair.
Entry to the area where Trump was to speak was delayed until 5
p.m. ET, and additional magne-
tometers and security screening areas were added to expedite crowd management.
Other events on the East Coast have also been disrupted because of dangerous heat index forecasts. Excitement steadily grew over the past week as thousands of Americans and visitors from around the world poured into the nation’s capital to participate in celebrations of America’s semiquincentennial anniversary, marking 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Thousands of visitors were seen taking in the national monuments, many gathered around the Thomas Jefferson Memorial and enjoying the shade under the Lincoln Memorial, with festive hats and attire complementing their smiling faces and patriotic fervor.
Federal buildings across the capital were decorated with specially designed banners commemorating the momentous occasion and lit at night with red, white, and blue beams.
The National Archives hosted a reading of the founding document earlier in the day.
Trump also attended Independence Day festivities on July 3 at Mount Rushmore and on July 1 when he opened the Teddy Roosevelt Presidential Library in Medora, North Dakota.
He championed the American spirit during his address at Mount Rushmore, calling the country “the oldest republic on Earth, the freest people on Earth.” He said that it is “the most successful, most accomplished, most exceptional nation ever to exist.”
“We mark 250 years of glorious independence and 250 years of majestic American freedom,” Trump said. “Nothing like it.” Copyright 2026. Reprinted with permission from The Epoch Times. To subscribe, go to Subscribe.theEpochTimes.com
‘We’re celebrating freedom’s triumph over tyranny, liberty’s conquest over oppression, and the enduring victory of the American spirit,’ the president said.
Joe Naiman for the Valley News
The County of Riverside’s Planning Commission approved a time extension to complete the public infrastructure for a planned 37-home development in Winchester.
The Planning Commission’s
4-0 vote on June 24, with Bill Sanchez absent, extends the deadline to complete the infrastructure to July 19, 2029. The time extension covers roads, water, and sewer facilities, and other infrastructure; the homes or other lot improvements themselves are not required to be completed by that date.
Strata Mountain Gate, LLC, owns the 9.9-acre property north of Hillridge Street, east of Briggs Road, south of Paloma Ridge Lane, and west of Emperor Road. On July 19, 2023, the Planning Commission approved a tentative map for the 37 single-family residential lots of at
least 5,000 square feet, along with two lots for open space and drainage. Tentative tract maps and tentative parcel maps have an initial expiration three years after approval, so the map would have expired on July 19, 2026, had the extension not been granted. Up to two three-year time extensions can be granted. The time extension for the Winchester tract map was filed on March 31. Representatives for the applicant and the county discussed conditions of approval and reached an agreement May 11. Eleven new conditions of approval were added.
Supervisors award contract for watershed
Joe Naiman for the Valley News
The Riverside County Board of Supervisors awarded a contract to install trash capture devices in three watersheds within the county, including the Santa Margarita Watershed.
A 5-0 vote June 23 authorized
a $480,950 contract with United Storm Water, Inc., for the work. Full trash capture devices will be installed in identified significant trash-generating areas of the Santa Margarita, Santa Ana,
and Whitewater watersheds.
A total of 249 connector pipe screens will be installed with 34 of those in the Santa Margarita Watershed, along with 138 in the Santa Ana Watershed and 77 in the Whitewater Watershed.
The full trash capture devices will consist of a metal screen assembly installed inside a catch basin in front of the entrance to a connector pipe.
Storms wash trash into gutters and storm drains, and that trash is eventually conveyed into streams, creeks, rivers, and the
Pacific Ocean. In April 2015, the State Water Resources Control Board adopted trash provisions which are intended to eliminate trash pollution from stormwater systems statewide. Public agencies must take measures to prevent trash larger than 5 millimeters (approximately 3/16 of an inch, or about the size of a cigarette butt) from entering storm drains and waterways by 2030.
A 5-0 Board of Supervisors vote on March 24 authorized the advertisement for bids while also approving the plans and specifi-
trash capture devices
cations for the construction of the trash capture device project and finding the installation of connector pipe screens in existing storm water drainage inlet facilities to be categorically exempt from California Environmental Quality Act review. Three bids were received by the April 15 deadline. United Storm Water, Inc., which is headquartered in City of Industry, submitted the $480,950 low bid. Apex Companies, LLC, which is headquartered in Maryland and has Carlsbad and San Juan Capistra-
County amends agreements with towing companies
Joe Naiman for the Valley News
In the event that a County of Riverside vehicle needs towing or other roadside assistance the county has contracts with several towing companies. A June 23 Riverside County Board of Supervisors action modified the contracts with the towing companies. The 5-0 vote approved amendments to six of the towing contracts. All of the multi-year
contracts which originally ended on November 30, 2029, will now end on June 30, 2029, to correspond with the end of the county’s fiscal year. The contracts awarded in January 2025 included one to Lifesaver Towing, but that Menifee company is no longer in business and the maximum annual amounts were changed for the remaining six companies. The towing service contractors support the Fleet Services Division of the county’s Department of Purchasing and Fleet Services
by providing reliable on-demand towing and recovery services including emergency roadside assistance for county-owned vehicles. Those services minimize vehicle downtime and ensure that fleet assets remain available to support essential county operations. In August 2024 the Department of Purchasing and Fleet Services issued a request for quotes for towing services, and seven companies responded.
The proposed rates, service zone coverage, equipment ca -
pacity, response capabilities, and licensing requirements were evaluated. It was determined that awarding contracts to all seven vendors was in the county’s best interest to ensure sufficient towing and recovery coverage across participating departments and geographic service areas. In addition to Lifesaver Towing contracts were issued to Town and Country Towing of Temecula, Complete Towing and Recovery of San Jacinto, Auto Aide Towing of Perris, Stagecoach Towing of
no offices, had the second-lowest bid amount at $510,640. Gas tax and Highway User Tax Account revenue derived from the sales tax on gasoline will be used to fund the work.
The installations are scheduled to begin in summer 2026. Since the existing county right-of-way will be used the work will be phased to keep the roads open during construction as much as possible and will take approximately four months to complete.
Banning, Statewide Road Solutions of Banning, and Classic Auto Transport of Indio. Each company previously had a contract with a maximum compensation amount of $42,429. The maximum annual compensations for Town and Country Towing and for Auto Aide Towing were increased to $150,000 while the maximum amount for the other four companies was increased to $50,000.
Murrieta Police Department investigates stabbing at Waterstone Apartments
Murrieta – On Thursday, 07/02/2026, at approximately 10:34 P.M., officers responded to the Waterstone Apartments, located at 24850 Hancock Avenue, after receiving multiple reports of a male chasing another male with a knife. Officers determined a physical altercation occurred between two adult males, ages 32 and 37. During the altercation, one of the individuals produced a knife and stabbed the other male. The altercation and subsequent stabbing occurred in the north driveway of the apartment complex parking lot. Prior to the arrival of law enforcement, the injured victim was transported by an unidentified individual in a private vehicle to a nearby hospital for emergency medical treatment. At this time, investigators have not identified
the individual who transported the victim, and that person has not contacted law enforcement. Detectives believe this individual may have important information regarding the circumstances surrounding the incident.
During the initial response, officers used the department’s newly implemented Drone as First Responder (DFR) system.
The drone was deployed and arrived on scene (while officers were still en route), located the suspected assailant in the complex’s parking lot, and guided officers to his exact location, where he was detained without incident.
Based on the initial investigation, Gekeith McDuffie (37) of Jersey City, New Jersey, was arrested on suspicion of Attempted Murder [Penal Code §
664/187(a)] and Assault with a Deadly Weapon [Penal Code § 245(a)(1)] and booked at the Cois Byrd Detention Center.
The victim remains hospitalized in serious condition.
Detectives continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the altercation and are seeking any cell phone, surveillance, or dash camera footage that may have captured the incident or the movements of those involved before or after the stabbing.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Detective B. Williams at 951-970-8965 or BWilliams@MurrietaCA.gov and reference Murrieta Police Department case number MR263127.
Although there is no threat to the community, this investigation remains open and active.
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
Gekeith McDuffie (37) of Jersey City, New Jersey, was arrested on suspicion of Attempted Murder [Penal Code § 664/187(a)] and Assault with a Deadly Weapon [Penal Code § 245(a)(1)] and booked at the Cois Byrd Detention Center. Courtesy photo
points leader in the Junior Sprints division for drivers 11 to 14. Gilmore now drives what had been Matthews’ first racecar. Gilmore’s great-grandfather Eddie Bryan raced at Cajon Speedway and drove car number 76, so Gilmore uses that car number.
McGill attends River Springs Charter School in Hemet and was in kindergarten during 2025-26. His father, Wesley, is the crew chief for IMCA Modified racer
Tom Wesolowski, a Canyon Lake resident who drives car number 30, and McGill also has that car number. Wesley McGill built the Mini-Dwarf for his son’s fifth birthday last year.
(The initial plan was to drive the Mini-Dwarf at Barona Speedway during 2025, but the track’s insurance carrier raised the minimum junior class driver age from five to six.)
An entity called Downtown El Cajon Business Partners has weekly car shows from May through the end of August. The Cajon Classic Cruise has a different theme each week, and the June 17 theme was Race Car Jamboree. Gilmore brought his Masters Mini-Dwarf to that night’s car show and received the Top Choice award for junior drivers.
“It was really unexpected,” Gilmore said.
Gilmore’s first Barona Speedway racing season included six races between April and June. He had top ten finishes in four of those and entered Motorsports Week at the county fair sixth in the Barona Speedway season standings.
“So far it’s been really good,” Gilmore said.
McGill competed in three Barona Speedway races prior to the end of June and placed in the top ten in two. The So Cal Quarter Midget Association also had three races during the first half of Calendar Year 2026, and McGill had two wins and a second-place finish.
Gilmore and his mother arrived at the Del Mar Arena pits June 30, so they were at Del Mar for six days. That included spending the 4th of July at the county fair.
“It was really fun to hang out with my family and friends,” Gilmore said.
McGill won one of the July 1 races. “Good,” he said.
Gilmore won the first race July 5. “It’s really exciting,” he said.
“It’s fun,” McGill said of his first county fair racing.
Crossword Puzzle
Departed
Hip bones
4. *Actor Foley of #13 Across 5. Kind of block
6. Healing gel producing plant 7. *How many days to lose a guy? (2003) 8. 0 and 2, e.g. 9. Diplomat’s forte 10. ____-perspirant
11. One quark plus one antiquark
12. Spilled the beans
15. Dull surfaces
20. Fertile topsoil, pl. 22. Boat propeller 24. Army bathroom
25. *Fifty of these, to jog her memory (2004)
26. Newton of science
27. Dissect
29. *AOL delivery (1998)
31. Org. with a mission
32. Last letter, to Homer
33. *Pretty one (1990)
34. Nigerian money
36. Part of a hammerhead
38. Villain’s rival
42. *When has she been kissed? (1999)
45. Books, in Paris
49. Langley, VA org.
51. Fauna member
54. Peruvian beast of burden
56. Rive Droite and Rive Gauche separator
57. Hand-to-hand combat weapon
58. Unconstitutional and uncommon have it in common
59. Indian flatbread
60. Odds’ partners
61. Arial, e.g.
62. Naive, alt. spelling
63. Olden days “do”, second person singular
64. Files suit
67. Fall into it
SCIENCE from page A-1
agencies, county departments, or other organizations with programs that serve the social needs of the county’s population. Each county supervisor recommends the allocation of CID funding from his or her district budget, although a majority of the Board of Supervisors votes is needed to approve that recommendation. County Supervisor Chuck Washington recommended the allocations from his Third District budget. The funding for the Western Science Center in Hemet, which was formerly called the Western Center for Archaeology and Paleontology, was formally awarded to the Western Center Community Foundation. The programs include field trips to the museum for high school students and science workshops, which inform the students about fossil research,
FIRE from page A-1
125 acres in the La Cresta area, prompting mandatory evacuations, road closures and a massive aerial and ground response.
The fire was reported near Via Volcano and Tenaja Road and was burning at a moderate rate of spread through vegetation.
As firefighters continued suppression efforts Tuesday evening, CAL FIRE’s most recent official incident report listed the fire at 125 acres with zero containment. However, unofficial radio reports from the fireline indicated the acreage had increased to possibly 300 acres as crews worked to slow its advance.
Mandatory evacuation orders remained in effect for evacuation zones RVC-2145, RVC2146, RVC-2147, RVC-2197, RVC-2198-B, RVC-2243, RVC2244 and RVC-2245.
Evacuation warnings remained in place for zones RVC2076, RVC-2077, RVC-2143-A, RVC-2144, RVC-2198-A, RVC2246 and RVC-2292.
An evacuation shelter was opened at Chaparral High School, 27215 Nicolas Road in Temecula. A large animal evacuation shelter was established at the Murrieta Equestrian Center, 42646 Juniper St. in Murrieta.
Authorities closed Tena -
and the CID funding will be used for that activity.
VNW Circle of Care in Temecula provides food and other assistance to individuals and families in need. The CID money will be used for the project, which distributes groceries and other basic necessities to residents in the Temecula and Homeland areas.
The Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce sponsors an annual State of the City Address, and the CID funding will cover some of that event’s expenses. The CID grant for Habitat for Humanity Inland Valley will help cover the costs of the entity’s “Hit Fore Home,” fundraising event for the organization’s home repairs and preservation program, which assists low-income homeowners by providing major exterior home repairs and maintenance at little to no cost.
ja Road between Avenida La Cresta and Avocado Mesa Road, along with the intersection of Los Gatos and Carancho roads, to allow emergency crews to work safely.
The firefighting effort included 187 personnel assigned to the incident, including 34 engines, three helicopters, four dozers, four hand crews, three water tenders and numerous fixed-wing air tankers from throughout California.
Cooperating agencies included CAL FIRE Riverside Unit, Pechanga Fire Department, Murrieta Fire & Rescue, Corona Fire Department, Riverside County Sheriff’s Office, Riverside County Emergency Management Department, CAL FIRE San Diego, the Cleveland National Forest, the San Bernardino National Forest, and Murrieta Police.
No structures had been reported destroyed or damaged, and no civilian or firefighter injuries had been reported as of press time. The cause of the fire remained under investigation.
Editor’s note: As of press time Tuesday, acreage figures were based on incident radio communications and Cal Fire reports. Often the burn area figures are higher and then reduced with accurate mapping.
Zeppelin McGill during a July 4 race.
Marshall Gilmore during a July 4 race.
Marshall Gilmore receives his Top Choice plaque at the Cajon Classic Cruise car show.
Soboba Tribal Environmental Department hosts regional meeting
Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians
From June 15-17, the Soboba Tribal Environmental Department (STED) hosted the Spring 2026 Regional Tribal Operations Committee (RTOC) meeting at the Soboba Casino Resort Event Center.
The EPA Pacific Southwest (Region 9) RTOC is a partnership between the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and federally recognized Tribal Nations in Arizona, California, Nevada and the Pacific Islands. The committee promotes Tribal sovereignty, supports Tribal environmental protection programs and provides a forum for government-to-government consultation on environmental priorities affecting Tribal lands.
STED Environmental Director Christian Aceves said the RTOC brings Tribal leadership together with EPA officials to collaborate on environmental policy, program design and regional issues.
About 70 people attended the first day in person. Attendance grew to about 105 onsite participants and 60 virtual attendees on the second day. Participants included Tribal environmental directors, coordinators and elected leaders, EPA staff and administrators, and nonprofit and university partners.
Facilitating the event were RTOC Tribal Co-chair Roman Orona of the Ak-Chin Indian Community and EPA Region 9 Acting Regional Administrator Mike Martucci.
Martucci told attendees their concerns regarding Quality Assurance issues had been heard.
“We want you to know that we are committed to continuing to support you in the ways that we can and in ways that you need us to support you so that you can achieve your environmental goals,” he said. “We want to understand how we can serve you best.”
Orona emphasized that Tribal environmental work extends beyond employment.
“It’s a responsibility in our relationships, not only with each other as humans but more specifically with our relatives of the land, and the air and the water,” he said. “We are all going to be ancestors one day and what is your legacy going to be? I hope we get to the point where the Tribal voice is truly being heard and considered.”
Aceves said Soboba was asked to host the meeting again after successfully hosting the Summer 2024 RTOC.
“This is easily the largest gathering of Tribal environmental professionals in Region 9, second only to the full EPA Annual Conference,” Aceves said. “The RTOC serves as a vital forum where Tribal professionals and EPA officials engage in true government-to-government consultation.”
The committee focuses on EPA Indian program policy and management, coordination among Tribes and agencies, and environmental education. Throughout the three-day meeting, participants attended a Tribal Caucus, plenary sessions, breakout workgroups and site visits. Action items discussed receive written responses from both the EPA and the proposing Tribe before the next quarterly meeting.
The opening day included a welcome from Aceves and a tour of Soboba’s environmental initiatives, highlighting the Tribe’s General Assistance, Clean Water and Waste Management programs, along with its commitment to energy sovereignty. Attendees visited Soboba’s three major solar installations, including the casino rooftop array, Fire Department carport system and Soboba Solar Fields.
Many attendees said seeing the projects firsthand helped them envision similar renewable energy efforts within their own Tribal communities.
A virtual presentation by EPA Assistant Administrator for the Office of International and Tribal Affairs Usha-Maria Turner prompted discussion over the EPA’s proposal to reduce RTOC meetings from four to two annually.
“In-person gatherings offer richer engagement than virtual meetings, especially for Tribes in rural areas with limited internet access,” Aceves said.
“Reducing meetings risks silencing voices and weakening government-to-government connection.”
Aceves said one of the week’s highlights was showcasing Soboba’s environmental programs and Geographic Information Systems technology, which the Tribe uses for wildlife tracking, identifying illegal dumping sites and monitoring environmental conditions across the reservation.
“Sharing these tools and approaches with other Tribes felt empowering,” Aceves said. “By opening the door to our methods, we help strengthen Tribal environmental capacity across the region. At the end of the day, we’re all working toward the same goal: healthier lands, healthier people, and a stronger future for our communities.”
For more information, visit https://epa.soboba-nsn.gov.
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The Soboba Fire Department is visited by RTOC meeting participants during a tour of the Soboba Tribal Environmental Department’s various projects, June 15.
RTOC Tribal co-chair Roman Orona, left, and RTOC EPA co-chair Mike Martucci, Acting Regional Administrator for U.S. EPA Region 9, share opening remarks at the Spring 2026 RTOC meeting, June 17.
Photos courtesy of the Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians
HOME & GARDEN
Temecula’s Rose Haven Heritage Garden Celebrates 35th Anniversary
As of 2026, Temecula’s Rose Haven Heritage Garden is set to celebrate its 35th anniversary of “Beauty and Community Engagement” Oct. 16-18. The garden plans to celebrate through festivities including local partnerships, community events, and social media campaigns.
The garden is owned and run by the Temecula Valley Rose Society, a nonprofit since the 1990s that fosters the cultivation and admiration of roses. It is a 3.4-acre public ground containing over 2,000 roses, trails, and a koi pond.
Susan Whitten, president of the Temecula Valley Rose Society, published a letter to the community stating, “Rose Haven Heritage Garden is more than a garden. It is a place where generations come together to learn, create, volunteer, heal, and experience the beauty of nature.”
“Families and Community in the Garden” will have activities, educational exhibitions, and more for people of all ages. The celebration will end on Oct. 18 with “Art, Music, Poetry, and Dance,” hosting local performers and artists.
On Oct. 16, the garden will have a rededication and ribbon cutting ceremony to pay homage to its legacy. On Oct. 17,
Whitten wrote, “Our 35th Anniversary is not simply about looking back — it is about renewing our commitment to continue growing programs that educate, enrich, and serve our community activities for years to come.”
For more information, visit temeculavalleyrosesociety.org, Instagram, or Facebook
Bella Kent Special to the Valley News
Temecula Rose Haven Heritage Garden entry sign welcoming the public. Valley News/Courtesy photo More beautiful gardens. Valley News/Courtesy photo
ENTERTAINMENT
A mindful dining adventure awaits at Talia Kitchen
By Tony Reverditto
Long before Talia Kitchen welcomed its first guests, Murrieta Hot Springs Resort had already established itself as one of Southern California’s most celebrated wellness destinations. Founded in 1902, the historic property became nationally recognized for the restorative qualities of its naturally heated geothermal mineral waters, attracting visitors seeking relaxation and healing for well over a century. After remaining closed to the public for nearly three decades, the landmark underwent an extensive restoration before reopening in early 2024, carefully preserving its historic character while embracing a modern vision centered on health, vitality, and well-being.
Today, the beautifully restored resort offers far more than its famous mineral waters. Spread across 46 acres, guests can enjoy dozens of geothermal soaking pools and cold plunges, Roman spa facilities, panoramic saunas, steam rooms, wellness classes, spa treatments, fitness programs, walking paths, and peaceful gathering spaces designed to encourage reflection, tranquility and renewal. The geothermal waters remain the centerpiece of the experience, seamlessly integrated into nearly every aspect of the resort’s wellness philosophy. Visitors have the option to stay in well-appointed accommodations that blend classic California Mission and hacienda-inspired architecture with modern comforts, creating an immersive retreat where relaxation and restoration naturally unfold.
Continuing that same philosophy is Talia Kitchen, the resort’s signature restaurant, which opened in September 2024. Rather than presenting itself as a traditional resort restaurant, Talia embraces a contemporary California culinary style built around hyper-seasonal ingredients, sustainability, and partnerships with local farms, ranchers, fishermen, and artisan producers. The concept complements the resort’s wellness philosophy, offering a chef-driven approach that celebrates Southern California’s agricultural abundance while accommodating a wide variety of dietary lifestyles.
Leading the culinary program is Executive Chef Matt Steffen, a Bay Area native, Navy veteran, and award-winning chef whose
roasted figs, citrus confit, fresh mint, and thinly sliced spicy radish, creating a remarkable balance of sweet, savory, bright, and herbaceous flavors. Served alongside warm house-made focaccia, it beautifully showcased Talia Kitchen’s commitment to seasonal ingredients and culinary craftsmanship.
career has spanned some of the country’s most respected resorts and restaurants. Before joining Murrieta Hot Springs Resort in 2023, Steffen served as executive chef at Temecula Creek Inn and held leadership positions at Cork Fire Kitchen, the Arizona Biltmore in Phoenix, and Woodmark Hotel & Spa in Washington. His innovative approach to contemporary California cuisine has earned him numerous accolades, including SoCal Chef Winner (2019–2020) and Xenia’s Culinary Award.
Beyond his culinary accomplishments, Chef Steffen remains active within the community, supporting Murrieta’s Oak Grove Center and reflecting the same commitment to people that defines the resort itself. Before the first course even arrives, it becomes clear that Talia Kitchen is far more than a place to enjoy dinner—it is an extension of Murrieta Hot Springs Resort’s century-old commitment to restoring both body and spirit.
For our dining adventure, I selected six dishes that I felt best represented Talia Kitchen’s contemporary California philosophy while showcasing the breadth of Executive Chef Matt Steffen’s culinary vision. From the first course to the final entrée, each selection demonstrated an emphasis on seasonally sourced ingredients, refined presentation, and bold yet balanced flavors.
We were warmly greeted by Alex, who has been with Talia Kitchen since opening day. Friendly, intuitive, and exceptionally knowledgeable, she immediately made us feel at home. I ordered a delightful Cucumber Jalapeño Margarita made with real juice, while my guest enjoyed a crisp and refreshing 2023 Squealing Pig Sauvignon Blanc.
We began with the Kenter Canyon Farms Organic Baby Kale Salad, where fresh organic kale was balanced beautifully with spiced pecans, dried cranberries, a mulled cider vinaigrette, and delicate apple cheddar gougères. It was crisp, refreshing, and demonstrated that even a salad can become a memorable part of the dining experience.
Although it wasn’t originally on my tasting list, Chef Steffen insisted we experience the House Focaccia & Whipped Fresh Ricotta, and I’m grateful he did. It was absolutely heavenly. Velvety whipped ricotta was surrounded by fragrant basil olive oil and topped with Marshall’s honey,
Equally impressive was Campanelle Pasta, a dish that immediately dispelled any notion that a vegetarian entrée must be an afterthought. The unique tender pasta was paired with toasted walnuts, romanesco, king oyster mushrooms, and a rich lentil Bolognese that delivered surprising depth and heartiness. Every ingredient contributed to a dish that was comforting, satisfying, and layered with earthy complexity.
From the Land & Sea selections, the South African Wild Tiger Prawns immediately caught my attention with their striking presentation and vibrant flavors. Served with chile-lime butter, creamy celeriac purée, charred fennel chorizo, finocchiona salami, Cara Cara orange, and citrus greens, the dish offered a wonderful interplay of bright citrus, savory richness, and gentle spice. The ingredients were beautifully composed, allowing each component to contribute to an exceptionally well-balanced plate.
The Skuna Bay Salmon continued that momentum. Considered among the finest sustainably raised salmon available, it arrived with roasted peppers, a dreamy coconut-lemongrass broth, fermented cabbage slaw, and crisp Persian cucumber. The aromatic broth and fresh accompaniments enhanced the salmon beautifully without overpowering its naturally rich flavor, resulting in an entrée that was both elegant and deeply satisfying.
One surprise was the Baked Potato Purée. What could have been an ordinary side became one of the evening’s most memorable bites. Silky smooth and finished with dehydrated parsley, crispy fried garlic, and fragrant grilled scallion oil, it elevated familiar comfort food into something truly exceptional.
The evening’s highlight was the Pan-Seared Dayboat Scallops. Perfectly caramelized and exceptionally tender, they were accompanied by vibrant magic green sauce, turmeric-ginger purée, green plantain fritters, and charred habanero gremolata. The combination of sweetness, subtle heat, earthiness, and bright herbal notes was to die for. It perfectly captured the creativity and technical precision that define Talia Kitchen, leaving little doubt that Chef Steffen has created one of Southwest Riverside County’s most compelling dining experiences.
The evening concluded on a refreshing note with two desserts that masterfully reflected Talia Kitchen’s mindful culinary philosophy. The Lemon Posset was silky and delicately balanced, accompanied by
flowers that transformed the dessert into
a work of art. Alongside it, the Rotating Vegan Gelato & Sorbets provided a light, seasonal finale, demonstrating that indulgence and mindful cuisine can coexist beautifully. Together, the two desserts offered an elegant and memorable conclusion to an extraordinary dining adventure. From the moment we were welcomed, Alex’s warmth, knowledge, and genuine enthusiasm elevated an already memorable dining experience, perfectly reflecting the same standard of excellence found throughout Chef Steffen’s exceptional cuisine.
MURRIETA HOT SPRINGS RESORT
39405 Murrieta Hot Springs Road, Murrieta, CA 92563
Info: 951.290.0887 or murrieta-hotsprings.com
Resort Hours: Open daily, 9:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m. (Day Pass Hours)
TALIA KITCHEN
Reservations: 951.249.8989 or murrieta-hotsprings.com/ talia-kitchen
Refuel by the Pool. Revitalize with made-to-order food available throughout the day next to the calming waters of the resort’s pools. This family-friendly restaurant features approachable, health-conscious fare that can be enjoyed poolside or on the go between activities. Open daily, 10:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.
Guenther’s Lounge Discover a dining destination that showcases the best of coastal California both in sight and taste. In our lobby bar, enjoy a curated selection of classic cocktails and beverages from Temecula Valley artisans in a charming historic setting. Whether you’re gathering with friends or unwinding after a day at the resort, Guenther’s Lounge offers a warm, inviting atmosphere. Jazz Nights Every Wednesday & Sunday | 6:30–9:00 PM
Murrieta Hot Springs Resort
pickled blueberries, chamomile, fragrant lemon balm, buttery English shortbread, and edible
Talia Kitchen entrance sign at Murrieta Hot Springs Resort.
Executive Chef Matt Steffen of Talia Kitchen.
Kenter Canyon Farms Organic Baby Kale Salad with shaved cheese and house vinaigrette.
House Focaccia & Whipped Fresh Ricotta with basil olive oil, Marshall’s honey, roasted figs, citrus confit, fresh mint and spicy radish.
Silky Baked Potato Purée finished with herb oil and crispy garlic.
Sandstrom takes first and third in SD County Fair’s Design in Wood category
Naiman for the Valley News
Temecula woodworker Rob Sandstrom entered three pieces in the Furniture & Accessories Designed & Created by Computer - Laser and/or CNC category at the San Diego County Fair’s Design in Wood exhibition, and he won first place and third place in that class.
“I wasn’t expecting that. There was so much competition,” Sandstrom said.
“Sometimes I don’t feel wor-
thy of getting any kind of award when I look at other people’s work,” Sandstrom said. “I primarily enter the fair to support the San Diego Fine Woodworkers Association.”
The San Diego Fine Woodworkers Association organizes the Design in Wood exhibition to promote the woodwoorking craft as well as to recognize woodworkers. “I did it to support the exhibit and was happily surprised when I got the awards,” Sandstrom said.
CNC machining involves com-
puter numerical control, or the automated control of machine tools by a computer. CNC machines are motorized and maneuverable and often include a motorized, maneuverable platform. The machinery is controlled by a computer according to specific input instructions.
Sandstrom’s first-place award in the Furniture & Accessories Designed & Created by Computer - Laser and/or CNC category is called Round Cribbage Board. The board, whose center features the San Diego County Fair’s 2026 theme Once Upon a Fair, is made from maple, walnut, cherry, and padauk wood.
“It took about a week,” Sandstrom said.
The Once Upon a Fair theme emphasized reading and storytelling. “When you look at it you can see fairy tales,” Sandstrom said.
The first-place award is the second for Sandstrom, whose 2024 Memorial Flag Honoring the Fallen piece took the top honor in that year’s Veneering/Marquetry - Art Designed & Created by Computer Laser and/or CNC class. “When I won before, it was more of a San Diego theme,” he said. “What I’ve noticed in the past is that people gravitated towards things that have a San Diego theme.”
Sandstrom incorporated that San Diego theme with an inlay surfboard in his third-place Cracker and Cheese Serving Tray entry. Walnut wood was used for the tray.
His entry, which did not place, is called Butterfly Bowl; the cherry wood is complemented by the blue epoxy edges. Sandstrom made the bowl in the shape of a butterfly.
“That one was the most complicated out of them,” Sandstrom
said. “It was the hardest to do because it had that odd shape.”
Sandstrom is now 70. “I got into woodworking when I was getting ready to retire,” he said.
“I didn’t get into it until I was in my 60s.”
He now has a woodworking Website and YouTube instructional videos. “If I had said I’m too old to try this thing I wouldn’t be having the joy I have years later,” Sandstrom said.
“Minions
Sandstrom was born in Hawthorne. He then joined the United States Navy and worked for Southern California Edison, which owned the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station for 30 years. He was the training director for San Onofre before he retired in 2017. Sandstrom and his wife had lived in Oceanside from 1983 to 2017 and moved to Temecula after he retired.
& Monsters”
By Bob Garver
“Minions & Monsters” is the seventh cinematic outing for the Minions, the jellybean-like animated gibberish-spewers all voiced by Pierre Coffin. Apparently, long before they met Gru of “Despicable Me,” they had an adventure in the Golden Age of Hollywood.
At the beginning of the story, the Minions are once again looking to serve the most despicable master possible, despite not having an evil bone in their bodies.
A creative Minion named James screws things up with multiple masters, but friends Henry and Ed think he’s funny and stick by him. Washing up on American shores sometime in the 1920’s, the Minions soon find themselves unlikely stars in the movie industry, thanks to a short-tempered director (Christoph Waltz) and a twin pair of ambitious executives (both Jeff Bridges). I love this portion of the film and all its references to cinematic classics, as should a red-blooded
cinema lover.
The good times don’t last, and the Minions soon need to find a new master. Most of them settle on possibly-fraudulent space alien Dort (Jesse Eisenberg), but James and his cohorts befriend puny monster Goomi (Trey Parker), who can summon other monsters to consume whatever they can. Can the Minions save Hollywood and maybe win an Oscar in the process?
The movie, as always, depends your tolerance for the Minions’ lowbrow schtick. Here they’re most effective when the movie is actively celebrating the art of schtick, but otherwise, I feel that they miss more gags than they hit.
“Minions & Monsters” comes close to getting my recommendation, but it falls short by a margin thinner than a 1920’s mustache.
Grade: C
“Minions & Monsters” is rated PG for violence/action, language and rude/macabre humor. Its running time is 90 minutes. Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@nyu.edu.
Joe
Rod Sandstrom’s Cracker and Cheese Serving Tray wins third-place ribbon at San Diego County Fair’s Design in Wood exhibition.
Wooden cribbage board created by Rod Sandstrom wins first place in the CNC category at San Diego County Fair’s Design in Wood exhibition.
Peter Campbell’s wooden buckeye table wins multiple ribbons at the San Diego County Fair.
Patriotism shines at 94th annual Anza Days
Diane Sieker Staff Writer
The 94th annual Anza Days celebrations displayed community patriotism and neighborly fun on Friday, June 26 and Saturday, June 27.
Though the theme of this year’s event was Celebrating Our Military Branches, many parade participants went even further, honoring the nation’s 250th semiquincentennial, service members, and veterans.
The kickoff dinner/dance Friday evening at the Anza Community Hall featured a country-themed menu and the Mark Huston N’ the Workin Men band performing crowd favorites all evening.
Saturday’s events began with the Thimble Club’s early morning pancake breakfast, with fluffy pancakes, sausages, fruit, and beverages.
To begin the parade, Kathy Blair sang the National Anthem with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department Posse as Color Guard. Amid cheers and applause, the official start to the event began as she concluded her performance.
CDFW warns of hazards of illegal cannabis grows
Diane
Sieker Staff Writer
Illegal cannabis cultivation continues to pose threats to California’s fish and wildlife habitats through a wide variety of environmental impacts, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. CDFW teams documented thousands of pounds of trash and infrastructure, harmful chemicals, illegal water diversions, habitat destruction and even poaching at illicit grow sites in 2025.
The public remains one of the best sources for reports of illegal cannabis cultivation activity on public lands. Concerned citizens–in one case, a hunter scouting for deer–alerted CDFW to several hidden cannabis grow operations last year that were negatively impacting natural resources.
“Some years ago we were hiking up on Cahuilla Mountain and came upon two pitbull dogs and tunnels in the brush leading to a grow,” said an Anza resident. “We slowly turned and went back down the trail. I reported it later to the ranger station in Idyllwild.”
page B-2
Knöppelåsen to present Twilight Garden to Table supper fundraiser July 18
Diane
Sieker Staff Writer
Join Knöppelåsen and the Temecula Valley Native Plant Network Saturday, July 18 at 5 p.m. for an evening celebrating native plants, music, community and the beauty of Aguanga’s night skies.
A delicious farm to table meal prepared by Chef Alex Calapodis and others will feature fresh, seasonal flavors. Dinner is $25 per person. Bring your own beverage is suggested.
Guests can relax and enjoy live acoustic music by Ed Wall as they gather together for an early evening in the garden.
Featured speaker Alex Calapodis will share insights on Native Plants in Small Spaces–exploring how even small gardens can support biodiversity, pollinators and local ecosystems.
Patrons are invited to stay after dinner and enjoy the beauty of Aguanga’s night skies.
“Our skies offer a wonderful
chance to slow down, look up and enjoy the many stars above,” said Knöppelåsen’s founder Annika Knöppel. “Come enjoy an evening of food, music, learning and connection with the land above and below.”
Please RSVP by purchasing tickets at https://www. eventbrite.com/e/twilight-garden-to-table-supper-tickets-1992598704364?aff=oddtdtcreator.
Knöppelåsen is not ADA accessible, as it is a private residence. Terrain can be sloped and uneven outside of the event seating area. This is an outdoor activity so please dress accordingly.
Maps to the event can be obtained upon request. Google Maps may be unreliable and there will be signage at Reed Valley and Centennial roads.
Annika Knöppel may be reached at (951)234-1314. For
information about
page B-2
Knöppelåsen and the Temecula Valley Native Plant Network will offer an evening celebrating native plants, music, community and the beauty of Aguanga’s night skies Saturday, July 18. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo
Illegal cannabis cultivation continues to pose threats to California’s fish and wildlife habitats through a wide variety of environmental impacts, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo
Lil’ Miss Anza Crowley Heffron waves to the crowds while riding on a float in the Anza Days parade Saturday, June 27. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo
The Sheriff’s Blotter enables residents to know what criminal activity is occurring in their communities. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo
Diane
Sieker Staff Writer
The Anza Valley Outlook Sheriff’s Blotter is a list of calls that allows residents to see what law enforcement activity is occurring in their communities.
Anza Electric Cooperative Announces Emergency Response Vehicle
Anza Electric Cooperative, Inc. (AEC) recently developed a vehicle devoted to emergency response in their service territory, including prolonged outages. The capabilities focus on Cooperative Members with medical device dependencies but will also provide other services.
“We are grateful to Riverside County Third District Supervisor Chuck Washington for helping us address the needs of our members during local emergencies,” said AEC General Manager Kevin Short. “This trailer will be on scene at any such event, helping provide emergency power, telephone, and Wi-Fi to our members. We have been deploying our battery-inverters to Members on life support equipment for over a year, and this trailer adds to that capability.”
The Sheriff’s Blotter data is obtained from the official calls for service records kept by the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department. However, calls where the release of the information could cause harm to an individual or jeopardize the investigation of a criminal case are excluded.
June 27
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 June 27 through July 3.
No assumption of criminal guilt or affiliation should be drawn from the content provided in the Sheriff’s Blotter.
Residents with information regarding any crimes are encouraged to contact the Hemet Sheriff’s Station at (951)791-3400.
see FUNDRAISER, page B-1
Knöppelåsen please contact: admin@knoppelasen.org, call (951)595-5930 or visit www. knoppelasen.org.
Knöppelåsen is a community-focused nonprofit organization dedicated to environmental education and fostering a deep connection between people and
Criminal activity can also be reported through the WeTip Crime Reporting Hotline, (909)987-5005 or https://wetip. com.
Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia.com.
the natural world. Through guided hikes, educational events and outdoor activities, Knöppelåsen works to engage people in meaningful conversations about nature conservation, local ecosystems, and the beauty of the Anza Valley region.
Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia.com.
CLASSIFIEDS
Said AEC Operations Manager Jose Razo, “The emergency response trailer can be deployed to provide temporary power to members experiencing extended outag-
CDFW, page B-1
Illegal cannabis growers are typically in remote areas and are trying to stay hidden, reducing the likelihood of public interaction. The public is more likely to stumble across indicators of an illegal grow, such as polypipe, garbage or illegal water diversion, rather than the growers themselves.
Since water is a critical component for cannabis cultivation, illegal grows may occur within the vicinity of creeks, streams or lakes.
Wildlife officers cleaning up an illegal cannabis grow on public lands commonly find items such as irrigation tubing, trash, spent propane tanks and camping equipment.
Indications of illegal cannabis cultivation include:
• Irrigation materials, such as black hoses and drip lines.
• Dams or water holes in unusual places, often lined with tarps or black plastic.
• Trash in unusual places, such as food wrappers, toothbrushes, drink containers, fertilizer bags and pesticide containers in the wildlands.
• Evidence of digging, such as garden tools, plant pockets, leveling or terracing of soil.
• Cut brush and trees, stacks of dead vegetation cut by hand tools.
What to do if you find an illegal grow:
• Go back the way you came and get to safety immediately.
• If you encounter someone suspicious near a suspected illegal grow, remain calm and appear nonthreatening. Do not be confrontational.
• Do not touch any trash or dead wildlife associated with an illegal grow, especially containers with fluid or powdered substances inside, which may contain toxic pesticides that are harmful to human health.
• If it is safe to do so, get the GPS location of the site and take a picture of any landmarks.
• Call the CalTIP number at (888)334-2258, text an anonymous tip to 847411 (TIP411) or report via the CalTIP app.
How CDFW responds to this issue:
• California Department of Fish
and Wildlife officers dedicate teams to eradicate illegal cannabis grows on both private and public lands. Wildlife officers then pursue criminal charges against illegal cultivators, remediate public lands impacted by illegal cultivation and provide public safety.
• Environmental scientists in CDFW’s cannabis program are developing a long-term monitoring program to better understand the impacts of cannabis cultivation on California’s native fish and wildlife. This statewide initiative focuses on monitoring habitat, water quality and changes to species distribution, among other important scientific measurements Learn how to recognize illegal cannabis cultivation on public lands, how to stay safe, and how to share information with the CDFW by viewing the fact sheet Report Illegal Cannabis Grows on Public Lands at wildlife.ca.gov/caltip, call (888)334-2258 or text to 847411 (TIP411).
Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia. com.
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 CA-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 fi eld and lot to the west and east of the fi eld. The market is operated by the High Country Conservancy, a 501(c)(3), and is a California
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SAMANTHA GORMAN, Graphic Artist
ANZA EVENTS
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 CA-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 CA-371, from 8 to 10 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 offi ce at 951-763-4333.
Friends of Anza Valley Community Library – Anza Valley Community Library is located at Hamilton High School, 57430 Mitchell Road. The library is open to the public, but not during school hours. Hours are 4-7 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday and 12-4 p.m. on Sunday. Closed Monday through Wednesday.
Hamilton High School –Find out what is happening using Hamilton’s online calendar at www.hamiltonbobcats.net/ apps/events/calendar.
Hamilton Museum – 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Open Wednesdays and Saturdays at 39991 Contreras Road in Anza. For more information, call 951763-1350 or visit www.hamiltonmuseum.org. Find them on Facebook at “Hamilton-Museum-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 951-7609255.
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 951-751-1462 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 post-trau-
matic stress disorder and other diffi culties. 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 Mixed Open Discussion Meeting – 6 p.m. Meeting based on AA literature. Thursdays at the Rancho California RV Resort small clubhouse. 45525 CA-79, Aguanga, CA 92536. Make a right turn before the security gate. The small clubhouse is on the right. No need to pass through the security gate.
AA Men’s Meeting – 7 p.m. Meetings take place Thursdays at 39551 Kirby Road in Anza, south of CA-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 CA-371, Anza. For more information, 951-763-4759.
Narcotics Anonymous –Tuesday meetings, 8 p.m. at Shepherd of the Valley Church, Anza, 56095 Pena Road, 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 Road in Anza. For more information, please email Barbara at chicasita55@gmail.com.
Food ministries
Food for the Faithful – 8 a.m. The food bank hands out food the last Thursday of the month until the food is gone.
Emergency food handed out as needed at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. FFF is a nondenominational nonprofi t. All in need are welcome; call Esther Barragan at 951-763-5636.
Bible studies
Living Hope Thursday Men’s Breakfast and Bible Study – 8 a.m. at 58050 CA-371 in Anza. All are welcome.
Living Hope Christian Fellowship Sunday Service – 10 a.m. at the Anza Community Hall, 56630 CA-371 in Anza.
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 fi rst 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 951-763-0856.
Monthly Christian Men’s Breakfast – 9 a.m. Breakfast takes place the 4th Saturday of each month and rotates to diff erent 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 951-763-4622.
Anza Baptist Church–Begin your week with Sunday School for adults at 9 a.m. followed by Sunday morning worship at 10:30 a.m. We have an optional Children’s Church service during the main service. On Sunday nights from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. we have a rotating schedule of Bible Studies, fellowship, and prayer. We also have a prayer circle which meets on Wednesday mornings at 11 a.m. The church offi ce is open Wednesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The church is located at 39200 Rolling Hills Road, just off Burnt Valley Road, in Anza. For more information, please contact the church at 951-763-4937 or visit https://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 off ering 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 fi rst 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.
Fire Explorer Program – 6 p.m. The program meets every second, third and fourth Tuesday of the month at Fire Station 29 on CA-371 in Anza. Call 951-763-5611 for information.
Anza Thimble Club – The club meets the 1st Thursday of the month at the Anza Community Hall, 56630 CA-371, Anza, CA 92539. The social hour is 11:30 a.m., and lunch is served at noon. Contact Carol Wright at 951-763-2884 for more information.
Organizations
Terwilliger Community Association – 6 p.m. Second Monday of the month at VFW Post 1873, 59011 Bailey Road, in Anza. Potluck dinner open to all. For more information, call Tonie Ford at 951-763-4560. 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.
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 CA-371 in Anza. For more information, call 951-282-4267 or email achageneral@gmail.com or visit www.anzacommunitybuilding.org.
Anza Civic Improvement League – 9 a.m. meets the first Saturday of each month at the Little Red Schoolhouse. The league maintains Minor Park and the Little Red School House, which are both available to rent for events. No government funds are allowed; the membership pays the bills – $10 a person, $18 family or $35 business membership. For more information, visit www. anzacivic.org.
ANZA VALLEY OUTLOOK
NATIONAL
Democratic leaders call for Platner to exit Senate race after sexual assault allegation
Schumer and Gillibrand said the Democrats’ Senate campaign arm will not invest in the Maine race if Platner remains on the ballot
Chase Smith
The Epoch Times
Top Democrats—including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and the Maine Democratic Party—called on Maine Democratic Senate nominee Graham Platner to withdraw from his race against Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine) on July 6 after he denied a new sexual assault allegation reported by Politico. Platner said earlier in the evening in a video posted on X that his campaign was “taking the time to reflect on the best path forward.”
“I wanted to directly address the troubling, serious, and false allegations against me,” Platner said in the video. “Any accusation of nonconsensual behavior is categorically false.”
Politico reported on July 6 that Jenny Racicot, a 41-year-old Maine resident who said she had an on-and-off relationship with Platner for more than two years, alleged that he entered her home uninvited while intoxicated in late 2021 and forced himself on her despite her repeated objections. Racicot told the outlet she cut off contact with Platner after the alleged incident and did not file a police report.
Platner and his campaign denied the allegation in statements to Politico. The campaign’s statement said the allegations were “coached and coordinated by out of state establishment operatives” and noted the report’s timing a week before the state’s ballot deadline. The deadline for can-
didates to drop out of the contest with time for a party to replace a nominee is July 13.
Schumer and Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), who chairs the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC), called the allegations “incredibly disturbing” in a joint statement, saying that “violence, abuse and sexual assault are absolutely unacceptable.”
“Graham Platner needs to immediately withdraw as the Democratic nominee for Senate and allow Maine Democrats the opportunity to choose a new candidate who can defeat Susan Collins,” they said. “The DSCC will not invest in the Maine Senate race if Platner remains on the ballot.”
Senate Majority PAC, the main super PAC aligned with Senate Democrats, also called on Platner to withdraw and said it’s redirecting resources away from the race.
“We believe the women who have come forward about Graham Platner, and we stand with the survivors who have shared their experiences at real personal cost,” spokesperson Lauren French said in a statement. “Having lost the trust of the people of Maine, Platner should withdraw from this Senate race.
“We continue to believe this seat is winnable if Platner is not on the ballot, but we cannot strategically continue to invest here when there is an expansive battleground map where these resources can help win a Democratic majority,” French said.
Maine Democratic Party lead-
ership also called on Platner to withdraw in a statement signed by Chair Charlie Dingman, Vice Chair Imke Schessler, and Executive Director Devon Murphy-Anderson.
“Over the past several weeks, multiple women have made serious, credible allegations against Graham Platner. Today’s statements take those allegations even further,” the statement posted on X said. “The Maine Democratic Party leadership stands with women and survivors, and that principle does not bend based on party affiliation.”
Several Democrats who had endorsed Platner rescinded their support following the report, including Sen. Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) and Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.), who campaigned with Platner ahead of the primary.
“The allegations against Graham Platner are troubling and deeply serious. I am rescinding my endorsement,” Gallego said in a post on X.
“I’ve been very clear that sexual assault or violence against women is a red line. These allegations are very serious and credible. Graham Platner should drop out from the race. I am withdrawing my endorsement,” Khanna said in a post on X.
Sen. Elizbeth Warren (D-Mass.), who had also endorsed him, said in a statement that, “There can be no tolerance for sexual assault. Working families are counting on Democrats to win the Senate election in Maine to unrig our economy and hold Donald Trump accountable. With
so much at stake, the best path forward is for Graham Platner to step aside as the Democratic nominee and address these serious allegations outside this Senate race.”
In his roughly two-minute video, Platner stopped short of committing to remain in the race.
“Regardless of the inaccuracy of the report, but mindful of the political reality it will inflict, we are taking the time to reflect on the best path forward, for the state that I love, the people that I love, the movement I belong to, and the goal of defeating Susan Collins,” he said. “Those were the goals when we launched this campaign, and they remain my goals today.”
He pointed to the 156,084 votes he received in the June 9 primary—which he called the most in the state’s primary history—and told supporters, “Throughout it all, you never turned your back on me. And I will not turn my back on you now.”
“Every one of you deserves to see that vision come to fruition, and see Susan Collins defeated,” he said. “And we will use every tool at our disposal to do so.”
The video followed the postponement of several Platner campaign events, including town halls scheduled in several towns such as Gorham, Maine—according to the Gorham Democratic Party.
Platner, an oyster farmer and military veteran, won the Democratic primary on June 9 with more than 70 percent of the vote over Gov. Janet Mills, who suspended her campaign in April but
remained on the ballot.
National Democratic leaders, including Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin and Schumer, had backed Platner within hours of his win, while the National Republican Senatorial Committee released an attack ad the same evening.
Racicot previously described Platner’s behavior as “reckless” and “unsettling” to The New York Times but told Politico she had not detailed the assault allegation at the time.
The New York Times reported last month allegations from Lyndsey Fifield, a Republican strategist who dated Platner, that he twisted her arm and engaged in other acts of physical aggression, claims that Platner denied. Platner has also faced scrutiny over sexually explicit messages sent to women during his marriage, past online posts for which he apologized, and a tattoo resembling a Nazi SS symbol that he said he had not understood and covered up in October 2025.
Democrats need to gain four seats to win Senate control and count Maine among their top targets. Collins, first elected in 1996, is seeking a sixth term. The general election is on Nov. 3.
The Platner campaign and Collins’s campaign did not respond to requests for comment from The Epoch Times prior to publication. Nathan Worcester contributed to this report.
Copyright 2026 Epoch Times. Reprinted with permission. To subscribe, go to Subscribe.theEpochTimes.com
At America’s Birthplace, a Celebration of 250 Years of Independence
Performers and visitors at Philadelphia’s Independence Mall brave extreme heat to reflect on the nation’s history and hopes for its future.
Lily Sun & William Huang
The Epoch Times
PHILADELPHIA—Despite temperatures approaching 100 degrees Fahrenheit, thousands of visitors gathered at Independence Mall in the birthplace of the United States on July 3 to celebrate America’s founding principles—life, liberty, and faith—on its 250th anniversary.
Although the city’s planned grand parade was canceled because of the extreme heat, organizers continued with performances throughout the Independence National Historical Park, allowing thousands of spectators to take part in the landmark celebration and reflect on the nation’s history and hopes for its future.
Philadelphia occupies a unique place in American history. The Declaration of Independence was adopted at Independence Hall on July 4, 1776, proclaiming the birth of the United States, and 11 years later, in 1787, the U.S. Constitution was drafted and signed in the same building. From 1790 to 1800, Philadelphia served as the nation’s capital under Presidents George Washington and John Adams.
New Americans Celebrate Freedom
Among the day’s highlights was the Tian Guo Marching Band, made up of nearly 200 Falun Dafa practitioners, together with a traditional Chinese waist drum team from New York. Their performances drew applause and cameras from spectators in the historic park that contains Independence Hall as well as the Liberty Bell.
Michelle Mi, a drum major with the band, said they were excited to participate despite the intense heat.
“The spirit in Philadelphia today is very wonderful, ” she said. “Even though it’s extremely hot, there are many groups performing in different parks, and the spirit here is great.”
Mi immigrated to the United States 30 years ago and said America has given her the freedom to grow while deepening
her appreciation for the country’s values.
USA 250: A Look at a Uniquely American Right
“I really love the culture here,” she said. “People are very kind, and there’s the spirit of freedom. There’s a lot of innovation. There are many things about this country I really appreciate. So I’m very excited to celebrate America’s 250th year.”
She said preserving America’s founding ideals begins with living by universal values.
“Our band is made up of Falun Dafa practitioners,” she said. “Falun Dafa is a spiritual meditation practice, originally from China, and our practice principles revolve around truthfulness, compassion, tolerance, so we strive towards these values in our everyday life.”
Having spent her childhood under communist rule, Mi said freedom should never be taken for granted.
“There are many influences that are taking stronger hold here, leaning towards communism, and that’s very worrisome,“ she said.
”I lived in a communist country until graduating elementary school, so I knew what it was like to be in a communist country, and it’s not the ideals that they advertise.”
Descendant of Revolutionary Patriots Lauds History
Jim Fendrick, a financial adviser and member of the National Society Sons of the American Revolution (SAR), attended the celebration with his 6-year-old twin sons.
He said his ancestor arrived in America in 1624 to escape religious persecution, and several fought in the Revolutionary War alongside George Washington. Fendrick himself also served in the military.
“I’m really happy, because my family was a part of the Revolutionary War,” he said. “Anybody willing to lay down their life for their country is a great thing. I appreciate that.”
Fendrick said he believes that preserving America’s future begins with teaching children the
nation’s history.
“We really need to teach children the whole story of the revolution, the sacrifice, our Constitution Bill of Rights,” he said.
“Only by understanding history can they appreciate the freedoms we enjoy today.”
Fendrick homeschools his sons and said programs offered by the Sons of the American Revolution help young people develop a deeper understanding of American history and civic responsibility.
Looking ahead, he expressed confidence in America’s future.
“I hope it’s 2,500 someday.” Our Founding Fathers “laid a great foundation, we just keep on going and following the principles of the Constitution and the Bill of Rights,” he said.
Reenactors Honor America’s Founders
For Roseanne and Philip Swain of Massachusetts, the celebration was an opportunity to bring Revolutionary War history to life.
Wearing authentic 1775 Massachusetts militia uniforms, the couple joined fellow reenactors performing with fifes, drums, and muskets.
“I’m melting in this heat,” Roseanne, a retired music teacher and fife player, joked. “We’re really disappointed that the parade had to be canceled, but safety comes first.”
Philip, an attorney, said he was glad to participate. “I’m proud.
I think we have a great country, and we’re happy to celebrate the 250th anniversary.”
The couple said reenacting history has deepened their appreciation for the sacrifices made by America’s founders.
“When we march in a cold
parade or a hot parade, we think back ... how did they do it? ” She said. “We thank them so much for doing what they did. It wasn’t easy.”
Philip added: “We just keep remembering what they did and talking about it and saying their names.”
The couple agree that history education is essential to preserving America’s founding principles.
“We have to keep teaching the lessons,” Roseanne said. “Including the lessons we’re teaching by dressing up and, and doing these reenactments, and just talking about the reasons behind the Declaration of Independence, and our other significant events, like the Civil War, World War II, and so on.”
Nancy Wang contributed to this article.
People watch fireworks in Washington on July 4, 2026. Madalina Kilroy/The Epoch Times
Shelby’s Fitness Corner: Start Where You Are
Shelby Mortimore Special to the Village News
If you’ve been telling yourself, “I know I need to exercise, I just don’t know where to start,” you’re not alone! Every day, people are bombarded with conflicting fitness advice, which makes it easy for anyone to feel overwhelmed before they’ve even begun.
My name is Shelby Mortimore, and I am a personal trainer and lifestyle coach here in Fallbrook. Over the past five years, I’ve helped people of all ages and fitness levels build healthier habits by finding sustainable routines that fit real life.
My goal with this column is to make health and fitness feel less overwhelming and more approachable. Fitness is FOR ALL. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, and you don’t have to be perfect to make meaningful progress. Each week, you can expect science-backed and practical information that you can apply to your own life.
You don’t have to turn your life upside down to improve your health. Everyone starts from a different place and faces unique challenges. But no matter where you’re starting, we all can start with a few realistic, consistent steps:
First things first, get outside! (Or as I’d say, touch some grass)
If you’re currently doing very little, a five or ten-minute walk when you wake up, during lunch or after dinner is a fantastic place to start. We’ve likely all heard the daily 10,000-step rule, but if you’re not currently walking, that is too unrealistic. Once a five or ten-minute walk starts
feeling like part of your routine, gradually increase it by another five to ten minutes. Remember, the goal is sustainability. Secondly, set a timer to stand/ move for 5 minutes every hour if you work at a desk. The stiffness that comes with sitting at a desk from 9-5 can be killer. This ensures you’re getting the blood flowing and giving your neck, shoulders, and back a break from “desk neck.”
Finally, find ways to make movement fun. Play outside with your kids, grandkids, or pets, throw a frisbee, tend the garden, or take an evening stroll with someone you enjoy spending time with. The more enjoyable the movement feels, the more likely you are to stick with it. Movement doesn’t have to leave you drenched in sweat or exhausted to benefit your health.
OPINION
The goal isn’t to find the perfect workout; it’s to start building the habit of moving your body. The goal is not to become fit overnight; it is to move a little more than you did last week. Those small choices stack up, and over time, they create that foundation for better health. At the end of the day, the best exercise is one you’ll actually do consistently.
If you have any medical concerns or health conditions, con-
sult your healthcare provider before starting a new exercise routine.
If you’re feeling stuck and aren’t sure what the right next step looks like for you, I’d love to help. I offer complimentary consultations where we can discuss your goals and create a realistic plan that fits your life. Reach me at: cokeleyfit@ gmail.com
The Supreme Court has spoken. It’s time to reconsider mass
surveillance
Julie Reeder Publisher
When the U.S. Supreme Court ruled recently that law enforcement’s use of geofence warrants to obtain historical cellphone location data constitutes a search under the Fourth Amendment, it sent a clear message: modern technology cannot be allowed to erode constitutional protections simply because it makes surveillance easier.
The decision was about more than cellphones. It was about a principle as old as the Constitution itself.
Our Founders understood that unchecked government power is incompatible with a free society. Having lived under British general warrants that allowed authorities to search broadly without individualized suspicion, they drafted the Fourth Amendment to ensure Americans would be secure against unreasonable searches and seizures. Government would need probable cause before invading the private lives of its citizens. Technology has changed dramatically since 1791. Human nature has not.
Last week’s Supreme Court ruling acknowledged a reality every American understands instinctively: a person’s movements reveal intimate details about his or her life. Where we worship, seek medical care, attend political meetings, visit family members, or spend the night creates a detailed portrait of who we are. Collecting that information over time is fundamentally different from an officer casually observing someone on a public street.
That reasoning should cause every American to take a closer look at the rapid expansion of automated license plate reader networks, particularly those operated by companies such as Flock Safety.
These systems are often promoted as crime-fighting tools, and there is little doubt they have helped solve crimes and recover stolen vehicles. Public safety is a legitimate and important government responsibility.
But technology capable of solving crimes can also become technology capable of monitoring an entire population.
Today’s camera networks do far more than capture license plates. They photograph vehicles, identify make, model and color, record precise times and locations, and allow participating agencies to search those records across vast databases. As artificial intelligence continues to improve, these systems are becoming increasingly sophisticated at recognizing patterns and reconstructing travel histories.
The constitutional question is not whether police may observe vehicles traveling on public roads. They always have.
The question is whether government should be able to create permanent, searchable records documenting the daily movements of millions of innocent Americans who are not suspected of any crime.
That distinction matters.
The Supreme Court has increasingly recognized that long-term digital surveillance is fundamentally different from traditional police work. In United States v. Jones, the Court held that attaching a GPS tracker to
a vehicle constituted a search.
In Carpenter v. United States, it ruled that obtaining historical cell-site location records generally requires a warrant because those records reveal “the privacies of life.” The Court’s recent geofence decision continues that constitutional trajectory.
Although the justices have not yet ruled directly on nationwide automated license plate reader networks, the underlying principle is becoming increasingly clear: when government assembles a detailed history of where people have been, constitutional protections become stronger, not weaker.
Some argue that because drivers are visible on public roads, there can be no reasonable expectation of privacy. That argument may have made sense when an officer simply observed a passing car. It becomes much harder to defend when thousands of interconnected cameras create years of searchable travel records that can be accessed in seconds.
One camera at one intersection is not the same as a nationwide surveillance network.
Recent reports have only heightened those concerns. There have been documented
cases in which officers allegedly misused surveillance systems to monitor people for personal reasons. Other investigations have highlighted instances in which inaccurate information contributed to wrongful accusations. Like any powerful technology, these systems are only as trustworthy as the safeguards governing their use.
The solution is not to eliminate every investigative tool available to law enforcement. Police officers deserve effective resources to protect their communities.
The solution is accountability.
If government seeks to reconstruct a person’s movements over days, weeks or months, there should be meaningful judicial oversight. Clear warrant requirements, strict retention limits, independent audits, transparency regarding data sharing, and severe penalties for misuse are not obstacles to public safety. They are protections for the public.
Freedom has always required vigilance.
Every generation inherits
new technologies that promise greater convenience, efficiency and security. Every generation must also decide whether those benefits justify expanding government power beyond constitutional limits.
The Supreme Court reminded the nation that constitutional rights do not disappear simply because technology advances.
That reminder could not have come at a more important time. As artificial intelligence, interconnected cameras and digital databases continue to expand, Americans should insist that innovation serve liberty—not replace it. Our Constitution was written to restrain government first and foremost, especially when new technologies make surveillance easier than ever before.
Public safety and constitutional liberty are not opposing values. A free society demands both.
The challenge before us is ensuring we never sacrifice one in the name of the other.
Upcoming July Election for Anza Electric Board of Directors
Shelby Mortimore
PATRIOTISM from page B-1
For decades, these Independence Day activities have been an essential part of the community and its history. Anza Days are an entertaining, humorous, colorful and fun combination of wholesome events put on by local nonprofit organizations and a great number of volunteers.
The parade featured floats by civic organizations, equestrian groups, vintage cars, fire trucks, Sheriff’s and Forestry vehicles, school sports teams, bands, cheerleaders and more travelling through the heart of Anza along St. Hwy. 371. Even Smokey the Bear and Harpo the Clown made appearances.
Parade participants threw candy to the spectators, encouraging small children to scramble for the sweets, as a fire truck sprayed willing victims as it made its way down the parade route.
After the parade, the party continued at Minor Park with live music by the Barnyard Boyz, food, vendors, a beer garden, a horseshoe tournament, a playground and a makeshift water park.
Parade entries were judged on several criteria, and several were awarded prizes. The Anza Valley Outlook requested the official list of float award winners from parade organizers; however, the information was not made available before the publication deadline. The Outlook looks forward to recognizing the award recipients in a future edition once the official results are released.
Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia.com.
Greg Bruce and Hope Adams two-step around the dance floor at the Anza Days kickoff dinner/dance at the Community Hall Friday, June 26. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo
Anza Thimble Club volunteers serve up pancake breakfast plates before the parade Saturday, June 27. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Posse presents colors as the National Anthem is performed by Kathy Blair at the start of the Anza Days parade Saturday, June 27. Anza Valley Outlook/ Diane Sieker photo
Members of the Riverside County Sheriff’s Posse present colors at the start of the Anza Days parade Saturday, June 27. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo
The Hamilton High School Bobcat football team, cheer squad and band squirt water at spectators during the Anza Days parade Saturday, June 27. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo
The Anza Baptist Church float features red, white and blue patriotism in the Anza Days parade Saturday, June 27. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo
Children scramble to pick up candy thrown from participating parade entries at the Anza Days parade Saturday, June 27. Anza Valley Outlook/ Diane Sieker photo
Carl and Karen Virden’s 1969 Camaro is a crowd favorite in the Anza Days parade Saturday, June 27. Anza Valley Outlook/ Diane Sieker photo
