Valley News - July 17, 2026

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Southwest Traders Selects Menifee for Headquarters Relocation

MENIFEE – Southwest Traders is all in on Menifee. The family-owned foodservice distributor recently completed the purchase of a 230,000-square-foot facility in the Gateway at Menifee industrial business park that will significantly enhance its operations and support long-term growth.

Southwest Traders is preparing for a major expansion to meet increasing demand and strengthen its distribution capabilities throughout Southern California. The company is...

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Long-awaited Anza Ranch Market welcomes first customers

After months of anticipation, Anza Ranch Market officially welcomed its first customers during a soft opening on Tuesday, June 30, drawing enthusiastic support from shoppers eager to see the community’s new grocery store.

Owner Mike Shalabi said the building underwent a complete renovation before opening its doors. From plumbing and new freezers and refrigeration units to a fully updated butchery and kitchen, virtually every aspect of the store was rebuilt with the goal of creating a modern shopping...

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A slippery slope for the free market?

Julie Reeder Publishers

Former Congressman Dr. Ron Paul recently raised concerns about a policy that has received less attention than I would expect. It’s the federal government’s occasional practice of taking ownership stakes in private companies. Whether one agrees with Dr. Paul’s libertarian philosophy or not, his warning deserves thoughtful consideration—not because the policy is necessarily catastrophic today, but because history shows that government involvement in the private sector tends to expand once the precedent is established.

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Firefighters make quick work of Domenigoni Fire in Hemet

Bella Kent Intern

HEMET — Firefighters have fully contained the Domenigoni Fire, which burned 62 acres near Domenigoni Parkway and Searl Parkway in Hemet, according to fire officials.

The wildfire started Thursday, July 9. As of Friday afternoon, the fire was listed at 100% containment.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

No structures were reported threatened, damaged or destroyed, according to the latest incident update. Officials also reported no civilian or firefighter injuries or fatalities.

The Hemet City Fire Department is leading the response.

Fire officials have not released additional details on what sparked the blaze or when the investigation is expected to conclude.

Driver arrested on DUI suspicion after fatal crash involving motorized wheelchair

Robert Carter/Public Safety Incidents photos and story

A person using a motorized wheelchair died after being struck by a vehicle Friday night, and the driver was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence, authorities said.

The collision was reported about 8:56 p.m. Friday at the intersection of Garfield Avenue and Menlo Avenue in Hemet

According to initial reports from the scene, Hemet Fire Department crews arrived to find the victim on the ground while officers with the Hemet Police Department were performing CPR. The involved vehicle had come to rest in the roadway a short distance from the collision scene.

The victim was transported by American Medical Response ambulance to a hospital in critical condition but later died from their injuries.

Wildomar firefighters break record for Firefighter Demolition Derby most money raised

Joe Naiman for the Valley News

Not only did the Riverside County Fire Department’s Wildomar station receive the Hard Charger Award given to the fire department that raised the most money for the Firefighter Demolition Derby which is part of the San Diego County Fair, but Station 61 broke the fundraising record.

Approximately 20 Wildomar firefighters helped raise $30,675 for the Burn Institute, which uses the Firefighter Demolition Derby funding for its Camp Beyond the Scars program where burn-injured children participate in activities with other burn survivors. The amount broke last year’s record of more than $28,000 raised by the Fallbrook Firefighters Association.

“It was pretty cool to be able to donate that much money,” said Station 61 driver Kyle Herch. In 1995 Cajon Speedway, the

Burn Institute, and local fire departments collaborated for an annual night which included fundraising and promotions for the Burn Institute and a Firefighters Destruction Derby (which was renamed the Firefighter Demolition Derby in 2017).

The Burn Institute and local firefighters also collaborated on an annual exposition at Qualcomm Stadium.

Cajon Speedway closed after the 2004 season and there was no Firefighters Destruction Derby for five years, but in 2010 the Fire and Safety Exposition was moved to the San Diego County Fair although the configuration of the Del Mar Arena necessitated some changes. This year the final three drivers from each of the two early afternoon heats advanced to the main event and a late afternoon last chance qualifier allowed three cars eliminated in their heat to qualify for the feature. The

$10 Million In

and

Sacramento, CA – The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) is announcing the opening of a $10 million Tribal Wildfi re Resilience Grant solicitation. These grants will support California Native American tribes in managing ancestral lands, implementing and promoting Traditional Ecological Knowledge for wildfire resilience, and creating

Police

Father Earl Henley leaves Native American Ministry

After a quarter of a century serving the Native American Ministry of the Diocese of San Bernardino, which includes the St. Joseph Mission Church at the Soboba Reservation, Father Earl Henley has retired. A dinner celebration was held on June 5 at the Soboba Springs Golf Course banquet room to wish him a heartfelt farewell.

The purpose of the event was for the congregation to show the love and appreciation they have for Henley’s 26 years of service to their church and the reservation communities.

Henley resided at St Joseph Mission rectory on the Soboba Reservation, reaching out to other Tribal communities once a month. He served at chapels at the following reservations: Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla (Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary), Santa Rosa Band of Cahuilla Indians (St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church), Pechanga Band of Indians (St. Michael), Cahuilla Band of Indians (Our Lady of the Snows), and Morongo Band of Mission Indians (St. Mary’s). The distance between Soboba and the rest of the communities varies from 25 to 80 miles.

Many Tribal members from those neighboring reservations, and other community parishioners, joined the celebration that included special gifts for the outgoing priest. He was presented with an eagle feather, and guests contributed to a money tree to assist him in his next chapter of life.

Although he is officially referred to as a pastor and a chaplain, Henley calls himself “a missionary of the heart,” and said he sees many people at St. Joseph’s who have missionary hearts.

“I celebrate the Eucharist as well as many baptisms, first reconciliations, first communions, funerals, and one-year funeral anniversaries for all six communities,” Henley said. “The mission focus is on strengthening the community by bringing Catholic teaching and values while honoring and preserving Native American traditions.”

Ordained to the priesthood in 1969 through the Archdiocese of Louisville, Kentucky, Henley belongs to the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart order. Within two years, he was appointed to work in Papua New Guinea, an island country in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. He worked there for 23 years before returning to America. After about four years of being involved with various programs in Youngstown, Ohio, Henley said he felt a little inner voice tugging at his heart to be a missionary again.

“I prayed, listened, talked, and found another missionary dream two years later when I took up the position as pastor/chaplain of the Native American Ministry in the Diocese of San Bernardino on July 1, 2000,” he said. “Indian ministry is a completely different world, and I’ve learned a lot.”

Henley said the people who work at the church are all volunteers and are there to serve. He has faced several health problems

and was supported through it all by the community. “They stir my spirit,” he said.

Henley’s final Mass at Soboba was June 22 and his final day with the Diocese was July 8. He celebrated his 84th birthday at the end of May and has moved to Pennsylvania to reside at an assisted living facility. He plans to work on a book about his experiences serving two completely different cultures during his lifetime.

The Church of St. Joseph on the Soboba Reservation was established in 1883. Luiseño Indians came from San Luis Rey and were called the “Indians by the Sea” until they moved inland. At that time, there were priests who would travel to where the Indians were living. Rev. Florian Hahn and Rev. P.J. Stockman traveled from Banning. In 1888, a mission was founded at Soboba by Fr. Stockman and was called St. Rose of Lima, who is the patron saint of Native Americans.

After an earthquake in 1899, St. Rose of Lima was rebuilt by the priest and parishioners in 1910. It was given the name of St. Joseph.

To mark the church’s centennial in 2010, a time capsule containing memories of the community was dedicated and is scheduled to be opened on Dec. 12, 2110. Henley donated a chalice to the capsule.

In 2004, the school of St. Jude began on the church property. There are 30 students from grades Kindergarten through fifth. Henley served on the school’s Board of Directors as did Rev. Robert “Alex” Anthony, M.S.C. who will be taking his place at the pulpit.

A golf tournament fundraiser to benefit the church was held at Golden Era Golf Course June 27. The well-attended event was organized by Felix and Sally Ortiz, who hope to make it an annual fundraiser. All proceeds are earmarked for much-needed maintenance and restoration projects for the church that is more than a century old. All repairs and needs will be done with the help of Father Alex.

Sally said they held a successful golf tournament in 2019 for St. Jude School and were approached by Father Earl to organize one to assist with a roof leak at the church, among other needed repairs. The latest fundraiser was met with great support from the community. There were 27 sign sponsors and local businesses who either golfed and/ or donated ice, gifts, gift cards, food, and more. Lance Graff from the Knights of Columbus volunteered to cook for all the guests.

“My grandmother Ruth Masiel was a dedicated parishioner and we attended sporadically,” Sally said. “We will mostly miss Father Earl and his good deeds as he was always willing to assist us with funerals and wedding vow renewals. Felix and I renewed our vows in 2012.”

She said Father Earl has a great spirit about him. “He really adjusted well in the Native community and how we do things traditionally and culturally,” Sally said.

MENIFEE – Southwest Traders is all in on Menifee. The family-owned foodservice distributor recently completed the purchase of a 230,000-square-foot facility in the Gateway at Menifee industrial business park that will significantly enhance its operations and support long-term growth.

Southwest Traders is preparing for a major expansion to meet increasing demand and strengthen its distribution capabilities throughout Southern California. The company is transforming the facility into a state-of-the-art refrigerated and subzero freezer distribution center designed to support efficient, real-time delivery services. Southwest Traders will immediately add approximately 250 local jobs in Menifee and is expected to create an additional 250 jobs over the next five years.

“We draw nearly fifty percent

Joe Naiman for the Valley News

The Eastern Municipal Water District board approved a design contract for power quality monitoring improvements at the Temecula Valley Regional Water Reclamation Facility.

The 5-0 vote July 1 authorized a $221,298 contract with Lee + Ro, Inc., for preliminary and final design of the project. The board action also approved total additional appropriations of $394,098.

The Temecula Valley Regional Water Reclamation Facility is in the 42500 block of Avenida Al-

of our workforce from this region, so Menifee was a logical choice for our expansion efforts to move closer to where our teammates live,” said Terry Walsh, President of Southwest Traders. “The City’s tremendous economic potential and forward-thinking vision make it an exciting place to invest, and we’re proud to be part of its continued momentum.”

The City of Menifee worked collaboratively with Southwest Traders and multiple City departments to expedite approvals for significant tenant improvements and streamline the permitting and construction process, helping the company meet its aggressive timeline.

“We are so grateful to the City of Menifee for their great partnership and helping us get to the finish line,” said Walsh. “Their commitment to our success fur-

ther solidified that we had made the right decision expanding our operations and making a longterm commitment in Menifee. We are beyond impressed with the City team, which anticipates and solves design-build issues in a collaborative way to exceed our goals, timeframes, and expectations.”

Since 1977, Southwest Traders has remained family-owned and operated, earning a reputation for delivering world-class supply chain solutions while investing in the growth and success of its teammates. A cornerstone of that investment is the company’s Shifting Gears development program, which provides career advancement opportunities for warehouse associates interested in becoming professional drivers. Through the program, selected teammates receive scholarship assistance to earn their Commer-

cial Driver’s License (CDL-A), hands-on training, mentorship, and a direct pathway into driving careers with Southwest Traders.

The initiative creates meaningful opportunities for career growth while helping employees build long-term financial stability.

Southwest Traders drivers earn an average annual salary of approximately $100,000, making the program a life-changing opportunity for many teammates and their families.

The company also takes great pride in supporting local communities through charitable partnerships, workforce development, and employee-focused programs that encourage long-term careers. By creating advancement opportunities from within, Southwest Traders has built a culture that promotes retention, professional development, and exceptional customer service.

“Southwest Traders’ investment in our community not only brings quality jobs, strengthens our local economy, and creates new opportunities for our residents, but their company’s commitment to its employees, community involvement, and strong values align with the culture we have worked hard to build in Menifee,” said Kayla Charters, Economic Development Director for the City of Menifee. “We look forward to a long and successful partnership together.”

Southwest Traders expects to begin operations from its Menifee headquarters facility in Fall 2026, following completion of tenant improvements and construction activities now underway.

Submitted by the City of Menifee

varado. The reclamation facility provides sewage collection and treatment services to the Temecula, French Valley, and Murrieta areas. The facility can process up to 23 million gallons per day (mgd).

EMWD staff identified the need for improved visibility into power conditions at the district’s four regional reclamation water facilities due to issues with the existing utility power. (The San Jacinto Regional Water Reclamation Facility in the 700 block of North Sanderson Avenue has a capacity of 14 mgd. The Moreno Valley Regional Water Reclamation Facility on Kitching Street

has a 15 mgd capacity. The Perris Valley Regional Water Reclamation Facility is on Case Road and its capacity is 22 mgd.) The upgrades will improve energy efficiency, optimize power consumption, enable early detection of power quality issues, and establish a plant baseline through data aggregation and trend analysis. The approach to the initial Temecula Valley Regional Water Reclamation Facility project will be used as a template for the other three facilities. The upgrades are based on a technical memorandum EMWD staff provided in late 2025. The recommendations to address

the current power quality issues include upgrading power quality monitoring systems, installing active harmonic filters, and establishing data historian capabilities. When those upgrades are completed district staff could monitor and store power quality data for key electrical parameters such as voltage, current, power factor, harmonics, and transients across the plant. That data would improve troubleshooting by distinguishing between utility-side and facility-side disturbances, support preventive maintenance by identifying abnormal conditions before they lead to equipment failures, and enhance safety

by aligning monitoring data with breaker upgrades and protective device setting changes.

Lee + Ro, whose office is in the City of Industry, is on the EMWD on-call consultant list for electrical engineering design service which was competitively selected through a request for qualification process. A fee of $221,298 for the preliminary and final design was negotiated. The total expenses also include EMWD staff labor, geotechnical and surveying consultants, and preparation of the final plans and specifications for a bid package.

Joe Naiman for the Valley News

Two helicopter dip tanks will be installed on Rancho California Water District reservoirs.

A 7-0 RCWD board vote on July 9 approved a purchase order for two HeloPod dip tanks. Pump Pod USA, whose office is in Simi Valley, will be paid $139,237.50 for the tanks.

“It’s a huge benefit to our community,” said RCWD senior vice president J.D. Harkey.

The County of Riverside’s Unincorporated Communities Initiative program is intended to improve the infrastructure and services provided to residents of unincorporated com-

Funeral arrangements are a difficult topic to discuss, especially when the funeral will be your own. But having these conversation will make it easier for your survivors. We offer the most options and best value in the preplanning market, plus easy funding plans to meet your individual needs. Call for information today and receive our free Personal Arrangement Guide.

munities with an emphasis on disadvantaged unincorporated communities. The county’s 202526 budget, approved June 24 included $12,500,000 for the Unincorporated Communities Fund, divided evenly between the five Supervisorial Districts. In October 2025 the Riverside County Board of Supervisors approved $500,000 of Third District funding to install helicopter dip tanks in the rural areas near De Luz and La Cresta, which will enhance wildfire protection and emergency response capabilities for the greater Temecula-Murrieta region. Because the dip tanks will be on Rancho Water storage tanks, the county grant was given to Rancho Water.

Helicopter dip tanks provide a dedicated, reliable water source for aerial firefighting operations in areas where natural water sources may be scarce, inaccessible, or insufficient in depth for helicopter snorkel or bucket operations. Positioning dip tanks strategically within the De Luz and La Cresta communities will reduce helicopter turnaround times, extend aerial operational capacity, and improve response effectiveness during the critical early stages of a fire.

“I wish we would have had them two weeks ago,” Harkey said.

RCWD staff evaluated seven reservoir sites in the De Luz and La Cresta areas. Two sites were

determined to be viable based on the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection’s operational preferences for aerial access, proximity to high-risk areas, and site and space requirements for safe flight approaches and departure paths.

District staff also evaluated two helicopter dip tank technologies. The Heli-Hydrant is a permanent, automated fixed round tank. The HeloPod is a modular, portable rectangular dip tank which can be deployed and filled from various sources. The two options were assessed for their suitability in the local context. CalFire has experience with both types of dip tanks, and CalFire pilots provided input to ensure compatibility with cur-

rent aerial firefighting practices and aircraft specifications.

A request for bids was issued June 2. Two vendors responded by the June 18 deadline. Pump Pod USA submitted a price of $139,237.50 for for the two HeloPod dip tanks. Heli-Hydrant vendor Glenn Chavez Construction of Brea requested $499,200.00. After the HeloPod tanks are delivered and placed on concrete foundations RCWD staff will perform the construction, including tie-in connections, piping, and installation of valves. The total estimated cost including the construction work is $415,000.

“So thankful we got some funding help,” Harkey said.

FUNDING from page A-4

ing, environmental compliance, and developing forest/fi re management plans. These actions foster the future well-being of resilient ecosystems and tribal communities while also helping to mitigate climate change, protect communities from fi re risk, strengthen rural economies, revitalize traditional land management practices, and improve California’s water resources and air quality.

“CAL FIRE is proud to offer Tribal Wildfi re Resilience Grants, which play a vital role in expanding traditional land stewardship practices to create a healthier and more resilient landscape and help protect communities,” said Chief Eric Huff , CAL FIRE Deputy Director of Natural Resource Management.

Concept Proposals will be accepted beginning Wednesday, July 8, 2026, via the Tribal Wildfi re Resilience Grants webpage and must be submitted no later than 12:00 PM on Wednesday September 8, 2026. Full applications are expected to be invited back in October and due in December 2026. CAL FIRE is committed to off ering grant funding specifically for Tribal Wildfi re Resil-

ience projects. Since 2023, $29 million has been awarded to 22 projects across the state, with project details available on the program’s webpage. Online offi ce hours will be available throughout the application period. CAL FIRE’s Tribal Wildfi re Resilience staff will also be available to answer questions about the grant process and requirements. Please check the Tribal Wildfi re Resilience Grants webpage for details. Any questions can be directed to TribalWildfireResilienceGrants@fi re.ca.gov. Projects that receive funding from the Tribal Wildfire Resilience grant program are designed to complement California Natural Resources Agency’s Tribal Stewardship Policy, California Natural Resource Agency’s Tribal Nature-Based Solutions Program as well as California’s Wildfi re & Forest Resilience Action Plan and California’s Strategic Plan for Expanding the Use of Beneficial Fire.

RECORD from page A-

Hard Charger Award recipient receives automatic entry into the final, and if that driver qualifies for the main event during the heats the fire department that raised the next-largest amount bypasses the last chance qualifier.

The fire departments build their own cars as well as raise money for the Burn Institute. In January 2020 Station 61 acquired a 1972 Cadillac Sedan de Ville, which was available on Craigslist, but the 2020 San Diego County Fair was not held and the Del Mar Arena was not part of the 2021 fair footprint so the crew began transitioning the Cadillac into a demolition derby car in February 2022. Tyler Wagner drove for Wildomar that year and won the last chance qualifier, but prior to the main event, the front brakes locked and the Cadillac was unable to move to the competition area.

In 2023, Valley Wide Towing donated a 1964 Chrysler Imperial to the fire department, so Station 61 had two cars in that year’s Firefighter Demolition Derby with Wagner driving the Imperial and Ken McGowan driving the Cadillac. McGowan

placed second that year while the Imperial received the Best Looking Car recognition. Wagner was eliminated in the 2023 last chance qualifier but reached the main event in 2024, when McGowan once again placed second. McGowan drove a 1970 Cadillac Coupe de Ville last year and reached the main event while Station 61 raised $10,976, which was the third-largest amount.

“I’ve been there to help Ken out the last few years,” Herch said. “I’m a gearhead, a motorhead, myself. I do a lot of off-road riding and dirt-bike riding,” Herch said. “Pretty much anything with a motor I’ve done.”

McGowan suggested that Herch drive this year. “I wanted to give it a shot,” Herch said.

Herch was raised in the City of Riverside. In 2013 he graduated from Ramona High School in Riverside. Herch began his fire service career as a volunteer with the La Habra Heights Fire Department before becoming a U.S. Forest Service wildland firefighter. He has been with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection for the past seven years. The San Diego County Fire Protection District

as well as the Riverside County Fire Department contract with CalFire, and Herch was initially assigned to Station 47 in Boulevard at the southeast end of San Diego County.

“There was a lot more to San Diego than just the beaches and Downtown,” Herch said.

In August 2023 Herch was transferred to Station 61. Ten firefighters are assigned to the Wildomar station, and on a given day five firefighters are at the station or on a call.

Herch drove a 1974 Chevrolet Monte Carlo in the Firefighter Demolition Derby. “I actually found it on Marketplace,” he said.

Over a period of about six months the Station 61 firefighters converted the Monte Carlo into a demolition derby vehicle. “We try to do it as a station thing,” Herch said.

Others helped raise the money for the Burn Institute. “Quite a few of us got together and helped fundraise,” Herch said. “It was pretty cool when we found out how much we actually fundraised.”

The Monte Carlo was one of eight cars in the first heat. “We ran pretty good with what we had going for us. We had motor is-

sues pretty much from the start,” Herch said. When General Motors built 1974 Monte Carlo vehicles most of them had 350 cubic inch engines with some having larger motors. The car Herch obtained had a 5.0 liter, or 305 cubic inch, motor.

“We didn’t find that out until a week before the derby. I tried finding a different motor but wasn’t able to,” Herch said.

The motor was strong enough to make the Monte Carlo one of the three remaining cars from the first heat, so Herch didn’t need the Hard Charger Award exemption. “It allowed someone else that wasn’t able to make it to make it into the main,” Herch said. “It was still pretty cool to donate that much.”

The Santee Fire Department had the second-highest amount of money raised at $18,451, but Adam Smosna was one of the three remaining drivers in the second heat. That advanced Fallbrook firefighter Max Paur, as the driver of the fire department with the third-highest total, into the final.

“It was cool,” Herch said of his first demolition derby as a driver. “I was a little nervous

going into it, wasn’t too sure what to expect.”

McGowan provided Herch with some advice. “I figured with all the other driving stuff I’d done I had a decent chance,” Herch said. “It kind of just came to me, and got it done. Definitely got an itch for it. Like to do it again.”

The motor issue made the Monte Carlo one of the earliest cars eliminated in the final. “By the main event it had nothing left to give and gave out on me,” Herch said. “I was bummed. I was sad.”

Danny Leetch of the Lakeside Fire Protection District won the 2026 Firefighter Demolition Derby, which was the 12th for Leetch and his second win. San Marcos Fire Department engineer/ paramedic and Murrieta resident Brian Meredith, who was in his seventh Firefighter Demolition Derby and won the 2024 and 2025 events, placed second.

“They definitely have a lot more experience,” Herch said.

The Monte Carlo had some fender damage from the main event but is still in running condition. “The car itself is really good. No issues,” Herch said. “If I put a new motor in it I think it will be runnable for next year.”

Three involved in Hemet rollover crash; one arrested after firearm found

By Julie ReederRobert Carter – Public Safety Incidents

Two people were hospitalized and a third person was arrested after a rollover crash Saturday evening, July 12, on Florida Avenue in Hemet, authorities said. The crash occurred about 8:30 p.m. in the 2700 block of West Florida Avenue, west of Denny’s.

Hemet Fire Department crews responded to the scene after a red Kia overturned in a collision with a silver Chevrolet. Hemet police officers removed the occupants from the overturned vehicle before firefighters arrived.

Firefighters found the Kia resting on its roof, while the Chevrolet sustained damage to

the driver’s side rear, according to officials.

Two people were transported by American Medical Response ambulances to a local hospital. Their conditions were not immediately available.

A third occupant was arrested after officers reportedly discovered a firearm inside the overturned Kia. Authorities have not released the person’s identity or the charges.

The collision prompted the closure of westbound Florida Avenue at Kirby Street, while eastbound traffic was detoured just east of El Pollo Loco during the investigation. The roadway has since reopened.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

Crossword Puzzle

73. *Mystery solver

1. Half of

2. Rugged rock 3. Cecum, pl.

Lion sounds 5. Relating to anode

Dashing style

*”It” game 8. Sour 9. 100 centavos, in Mexico 10. Actress Moriarty 11. Equals 1/2 b x h 12. Smoker’s lung residue

15. Double drum

20. Beyond suburb

22. Heart to Cupid

24. Reverse one, in the kitchen

25. *Super Bro.

26. “Music to my ears!”

27. Like thick smoke

29. Same as solos

31. Schneider and Reiner, e.g.

32. Consumed (2 words)

33. Ranch grazer

34. *Game of apologies

36. Achilles’ weakness

38. Ralph Lauren’s inspiration

42. Same as metre

45. Yummy

49. *”____ Spot Run”

51. Rouse

54. Ruhr’s industrial center

56. Swelling

57. Arithmetic operation

58. Piglet sound

59. Cul de ____, pl.

60. ____pool or ____pit

61. Like hard times

62. “The Iliad,” e.g.

63. Pie ____ ____ mode

65. *Shedding-type card game

67. *Like Aesop’s fox

ENTERTAINMENT

SoCal Music Unlimited performs at San Diego County Fair

Joe Naiman for the Valley News

SoCal Music Unlimited made the trip from Murrieta to Del Mar to perform at the San Diego County Fair.

The SoCal Music Unlimited Group performed June 26 from noon to 1:00 p.m. on the Family Funville Stage. The performance included a medley from the SoCal Music Unlimited Rising Stars Performance Team and six songs from five members of the program’s summer camp.

“We had a fantastic time. It’s always a pleasure performing there. The staff was excellent to work with, and the kids had a great time,” said SoCal Music Unlimited owner Gwyn Sanborn. “We just loved it.”

Sanborn lived in San Diego County before moving to Temecula in 2002. She was a Navy dependent who attended Bonita Vista High School in the San Diego southern suburb of Bonita. She was living in Texas when her parents moved from Ramona to Temecula, and she moved to Temecula when she returned to California in 2002. Sanborn moved from Temecula to Murrieta about a decade after becoming a Temecula resident.

In 1998 Sanborn, who was then Gwyn Bridges, won the California Country Music Association’s regional and state awards for Female Vocalist of the Year and Female Entertainer of the Year.

After Sanborn moved to Temecula she was invited to join a country band called the Ranch Rockers, which formed shortly before she joined. In December 2009 Sanborn helped found the West Coast Country Music Association. Sanborn is still with the Ranch Rockers and also runs Country Live! at The Merc.

On behalf of the West Coast Country Music Association, Sanborn herself sang at the San Diego County Fair in 2017, 2018, and 2019. The 2017 show was her initial performance at the San Diego County Fair.

In her capacity as a voice coach Sanborn had a studio in Murrieta prior to the 2020 coronavirus shutdown. After she was allowed to return to music instruction she rented space at the Norris Performing Arts Center before opening her own studio in September 2022. SoCal Music Unlimited has performed at the San Diego County Fair every year since 2023.

“We love going back every year. It’s a fun event,” Sanborn said.

The SoCal Music Unlimited Rising Stars Performance Team practiced for four months, beginning in late February and culminating with the San Diego County Fair performance. That group will return to practice August 28 and will be preparing for holiday season performances.

Avery Braun, Johanna Burlinson, Anabel Burton, Lexie Ferrer, Madilyn Harlin, Brooklynn Nelson, Isla Radgona, Delilah Waldon, and Jameson Waldon comprised the SoCal Music Unlimited Rising Stars Performance Team at the 2026 San Diego County Fair. They performed a ten-song pop icons medley.

Sanborn coordinates the oneweek summer camp with the county fair performance, so this year it began June 22. In addition to vocal skills the summer camp preparation for performance includes a professional recording studio creating songs in MP3 format, music videos utilizing the MP4 format, head shots, makeovers, and a stage performance workshop.

The five summer camp members, including three who are also part of the SoCal Music Unlimited Rising Stars Performance Team, sang a total of six songs during the San Diego County Fair performance. Two of the soloist songs, Can’t Sit Still and Little Red Wagon, were performed by 13-year-old Skyler Steinell. Twelve-year-olds Braun and Burlinson were in both groups, as soloists Burlinson performed God & Country while Braun sang Weren’t for the Wind. Harlin was also in both groups; the 11-year-old sang Boston for her solo number. Seven-year-old Primrose Briones performed Could’ve Been Me. The solo singers will participate in a pair of August 1 showcases at The Merc.

Fallbrook Propane Gas Company seeks artists for the Inaugural “ART CONNECTS US” Competition

Fallbrook Propane Gas Company, sponsor of the Inaugural “ART CONNECTS US” Competition, is calling for entries. This is an “open-themed” show.

“The power of art is that it can connect us to one another, and to larger truths about what it means to be alive & what it means to be human”. Daniel Levitin

Three categories: two-dimensional and three-dimensional cash prizes awarded in each:

First place - $300, second place - $200, and third place - $100. The photography category cash prizes are: first place - $150, second place - $125, and third place - $100. Fallbrook Chamber of Commerce will award a cash prize of $75 for their overall “Chamber Pick.”

Artwork must be delivered to the Fallbrook Chamber of Commerce office located at 111 South Main Avenue, Fallbrook on Saturday, August 22, 2026 9:30 am – 1:00 pm.

The entries in the competition will be on display at the Fall-

Chamber of Commerce office, 111 South Main Avenue, from August 25 – September 16.

(Hours: Mon-Thurs. 10-4; Friday 10-3; and Sat.: 9-1)

The community is invited to vote for the People’s Choice Award from August 25 – September 16, 2026.

To register or request the Rules and Entry Form, contact Anita Kimzey, 714-222-2462 or email: fpgcartcompetitions@gmail.com

Rules and entry forms can be picked up at: Fallbrook Propane Gas Company, Fallbrook Chamber of Commerce, Bonsall Chamber of Commerce in the River Village Shopping Center, Green Art House (1075 So. Mission Rd., Ste. D) The Gallery, FAA (119 No. Main Avenue) or download online from www.fallbrookchamberofcommerce.org. (Community Events Calendar)

Submitted by Anita Kimzey, Event Coordinator

“Moana”

By Bob Garver

I am well aware of the case against Disney’s live-action remake of its 2016 animated hit “Moana,” namely that the original film is less than ten years old and doesn’t need a remake, and also that Disney live-action remakes are lazy cash-grabs in general. And I agree with a lot about that argument. I’d rather see Disney put its resources into developing new ideas instead of rehashing old ones, especially when it means trading the magic of Disney animation for the limitations of live-action. At the same time, no amount of discouragement – of which I offer a lot – can stop Disney from making and releasing this movie, and the movie they’ve made and released isn’t terrible.

The story remains the same. Moana (Catherine Laga’aia), the teenage daughter of Chief Tui (John Tui) and his wife Sina (Frankie Adams), is destined to one day take over her island home, but is told she must never go out on open water. Her wise

grandmother Tala (Rena Owen) encourages her to take her duties seriously, but also to think for herself if strict adherence to tradition isn’t working. The island comes into trouble, and only returning the heart of the petrified goddess Te Fiti will save it. Fortunately, Moana has had the heart since childhood (she earned it as a reward for compassion toward the ocean and its creatures), so she sets out on an unprecedented seafaring expedition to return it.

Moana’s mission requires her to team up with exiled demigod Maui (Dwayne Johnson, reprising his role from the original, but now in live-action), who isn’t keen on crossing paths with old enemy Te Fiti. Together, they have to keep other parties from stealing the powerful heart for themselves, such as coconut-like pirates the Kakamora and greedy crab Tamatoa (Jemaine Clement, also reprising his role in voice only). Then there’s Te Fiti herself, who is so mistrustful of humans and demigods that she fights our heroes even when they’re trying to do something as helpful as returning her own heart.

It’s when the action kicks into gear that the movie doesn’t fare well. For most movies, I’d say the opposite, that I prefer it when the first act stops plodding along and we get to the action. But the second and third acts in this film differ so little from the original that it’s just a matter of waiting for the same beats from 2016. I know “I’ve seen this all before” is a cliché for critics, but in this case it’s especially accurate and appropriate.

While I’m talking about the movie’s lesser points, I need to bring up Dwayne Johnson. In 2016, I was thrilled that the pro

wrestler known as The Rock had a juicy part (and even a song!) in the Disney canon. But he’s really lost a step since then. His jokes sound forced (not helped by, again, being carbon copies of jokes from ten years ago) and his body is unnaturally puffy, a result of the effects team going overboard in giving him sentient tattoos. Speaking of unnatural special effects, animal sidekicks Pua the pig and Heihei the chicken also look terrible, and even the water isn’t as… fluid as it should be.

With all of these problems that I can completely understand being deal-breakers for other critics, why am I recommending this version of “Moana”? The answer is simple: Moana. Or, less simply, Moana and her family are back on the island. The first act of the movie gives us four good characters with passion and motivation. The remake really steps up its game in fleshing out these characters now that they have actual flesh. Of course, the standout is Laga’aia, matching the charm of original Moana Auli’i Cravalho every step of the way. Laga’aia and Cravalho combine their spirited voices for a song that plays over the credits, which is just enough to earn this film a recommendation by the hair of a coconut.

Grade: B-

“Moana” is rated PG for action/peril, some scary images, rude humor and brief thematic elements. Its running time is 115 minutes.

Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@nyu.edu.

Long-awaited Anza Ranch Market welcomes first customers, earning rave reviews

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

After months of anticipation, Anza Ranch Market officially welcomed its first customers during a soft opening on Tuesday, June 30, drawing enthusiastic support from shoppers eager to see the community’s new grocery store.

Owner Mike Shalabi said the building underwent a complete renovation before opening its doors. From plumbing and new freezers and refrigeration units to a fully updated butchery and kitchen, virtually every aspect of the store was rebuilt with the goal of creating a modern shopping experience for the community.

“We’re excited,” said Shalabi. “As a small family-owned business, we’re trying to do our best for this community.”

The response from customers was immediate. Visitors quickly took to social media to share positive reviews, praising the store’s cleanliness, updated appearance, competitive prices, friendly staff, fresh produce and meat, and especially the authentic, in-house made tacos.

“I went and had some carne asada tacos and they were so good,” said Bob Sandvik. “Very fresh and delicious. I will be back.”

Aguanga resident Tom McGiffen also shared his excitement by creating a video tour of the new market and posting it to Facebook, helping spread the news throughout the community.

“It reminds me of the old market that was always clean and everyone was super friendly. Best of luck - this is exactly what Anza needs,” said Patty Trapp.

According to Shalabi, the family-owned Ranch Market stores have been serving customers at several Southern California locations since 1985. He said he is proud of the talented team working at the Anza store, which is open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. seven days a week.

“As we continue putting the

Local author Kimberly Mendez turns breast cancer battle into message of hope

Aguanga resident Kimberly Mendez has completed a new book, Stand Firm: A Breast Cancer Testimony, a candid account of her journey through a devastating diagnosis. When Mendez received the news that she had breast cancer, her world shifted in an instant.

Facing an avalanche of terrifying questions about surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and her family’s future, she made a pivotal decision - she would document every moment of her experience. Rather than surrender to despair, Mendez chose to believe that her suffering held purpose, that God had ordained this trial for reasons beyond her immediate understanding. She resolved to transform her ordeal into testimony, opening her heart completely so that others walking similar paths might find encouragement and strength. Throughout her career as an HR benefi ts manager, Mendez has spent eighteen years helping people navigate complex systems and find solutions to their challenges. Her natural gift for connecting with others and her genuine desire to serve became instrumental during her own health crisis. With her steadfast partner Brian beside her - their marriage strengthened over more than twenty-five years together while raising seven sons - she learned to advocate fiercely for herself, selecting doctors, enduring surgery and recovery and adapting when her diagnosis worsened unexpectedly. What began as documentation became

something far greater: a beacon for those newly confronting cancer’s harsh realities In Stand Firm, Mendez shares her profoundly personal battle with unflinching honesty, inviting readers into the emotional, mental and spiritual dimensions of her struggle. The pages contain authentic reflections, practical resources that proved invaluable, and photographs chronicling her transformation from patient to survivor. Her narrative reveals how surrendering to God’s plan unlocked extraordinary possibilities she never imagined. Readers will discover not just a medical account, but a testament to resilience, faith and the redemptive power of turning pain into purpose.

“My prayer is that by sharing my story openly and vulnerably, I can walk alongside others in their darkest moments and help them see that God’s hand is present even when we cannot feel it,” she said.

Published by Christian Faith Publishing, Mendez’s stirring work equips readers with both practical guidance and spiritual fortitude during life’s most challenging seasons. This testimony will resonate deeply with cancer survivors, their loved ones and anyone seeking encouragement to persevere through adversity.

Readers who wish to experience this enlightening work can purchase Stand Firm at bookstores everywhere, or online at the Apple iTunes Store, Amazon, Google Play or Barnes and Noble.

AEC celebrates Father’s Day Coloring Exhibit participants

Staff Writer

Nineteen entries were submitted to the Cooperative for their Father’s Day coloring exhibit, featuring exuberant talent from all over the Anza Valley.

Eliana Nevills (10), Analia Nevills (8), Eliza Nevills, (4), Thomas Nevills (6), Violet Wenhold(5), Crowley Heffron (6), Bodhi Heffron (1), Brody Haize Pierson (8), Rowen Pierson (11), Jaxxon Frank (1), Maverick Frank (3), Elliot Gonzalez (4), Jose Gonzalez (6), Dawson Gonzalez Tucker (8), Yvangeline Gonzalez Tucker (9), Vianney Gonzalez (13), Ava Juarez (3), Aria Juarez( 6), Amador Juarez (1) all participated in the festive showing.

“Our little artists didn’t just color; they dove into imagination mode, conjuring Father’s Day masterpieces with the kind of joyful, technicolor chaos only tiny creative minds can dream up,” said AEC member services manager Kathie Beale.

Each of the youngsters took home a special prize they chose from a gift basket overflowing with goodies.

The Co-op’s holiday-themed coloring events have proven

AEC, page B-4

If you have an upcoming community event, email it to valleyeditor@reedermedia. com , put “attention events” in the subject line. Readers should call ahead on some listed events for the latest updates. Please also email us if any of these listings have new or updated information. Thank you!

Regular Happenings

Anza Farmers’ Market

Located at 56333 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

J.P. RAINERI,

DIANE SIEKER,

JOE NAIMAN, Ind. Contractor

ROGER BODDAERT,

Advertising

JOSEPHINE MACKENZIE CINDY DAVIS

Production

SAMANTHA GORMAN, Graphic

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.

SHERIFF'S BLOTTER

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

The Anza Valley Outlook Sheriff’s Blotter is a list of calls that allows residents to see what law enforcement activity is occurring in their communities.

The Sheriff’s Blotter data is obtained from the official calls for service records kept by the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department. However, calls where the release of the information could cause harm to an individual or jeopardize the investigation of a criminal case are excluded.

All calls listed are for service within the Sheriff’s Department jurisdiction in the unincorporated

July 4

areas of Anza, Lake Riverside Estates, Cahuilla and Aguanga from July 4 through July 10.

No assumption of criminal guilt or affiliation should be drawn from the content provided in the Sheriff’s Blotter.

Residents with information regarding any crimes are encouraged to contact the Hemet Sheriff’s Station at (951)791-3400. Criminal activity can also be reported through the WeTip Crime Reporting Hotline, (909)987-5005 or https://wetip. com.

Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia.com.

• Fireworks - 10:04 p.m., 3900 *** block Howard Rd., Anza

Shots fired - 02:13 p.m., address undefined, Anza 911 hangup from cellphone - 01:38 p.m., 3700 *** block Fisher Rd., Anza

Assist other department - 04:25 a.m., 5600 *** block St. Hwy. 371, Anza Public disturbance - 12:15 a.m., 6100 *** block Indian Paint Brush Rd., Anza

July 6

Suspect info - 01:39 p.m., address withheld, Anza

Public disturbance - 11:10 a.m., 3700 *** block Lanik Ln., Anza

July 7

Danger to self/other - 08:42 p.m., 4000 *** block Lakeshore Bl., Lake Riverside, report taken

Suspicious person - 02:58 a.m., address undefined, Anza Alarm call - 02:08 a.m., 5800 *** block St. Hwy. 371, Anza

July 8

Public disturbance - 08:34 p.m., 3700 *** block Woodview Rd., Anza

• Vandalism - 06:06 p.m., 5000 *** block Bradford Rd., Anza

• Unknown trouble - 05:36 p.m., 4600 *** block Palomino Rd., Aguanga

• Unlawful entry - 01:44 a.m., 3900 *** block Contreras Rd., Anza

July 9

• Off road vehicle - 11:26 p.m., 3800 *** block Manzanita Mountain Ln., Anza

• Public disturbance - 06:38 p.m., 3700 *** block Louise Av., Anza

• Area check - 02:41 p.m., address undefined, Anza

• Vehicle theft - 01:04 p.m., 3900 *** block Contreras Rd., Anza, unfounded

July 10

• Check the welfare - 11:01 p.m., 3700 *** block Regal Blue Trl., Anza, arrest made

• Fraud - 05:42 p.m., 5600 *** block Cahuilla Rd., Anza

• Public disturbance - 01:20 p.m., 5600 *** block St. Hwy. 371, Anza

• Miscellaneous criminal - 12:33 p.m., 3700 *** block Louise Av., Anza

Ranch Market photos from B-1

MARKET from page B-1

finishing touches on the store, we appreciate your patience and support,” Shalabi said.

He added that the market will continue improving each day by expanding its product selection, making additional enhancements and creating the best shopping experience possible for Anza.

“Thank you for welcoming us into your community,” he said. “We truly look forward to meeting and serving you.”

Visit the Anza Ranch Market on Facebook at https:// www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=61588292942009&mibextid=ZbWKwL.

They may be reached by phone at (951)744-5013. The Anza Ranch Market is located at 56555 St. Hwy. 371, in downtown Anza.

Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia.com.

Tortuga wins SoCal Pro Wrestling’s Golden State title, Billy Clutch wins battle royale

Joe Naiman Special to the Valley News

SoCal Pro Wrestling had matches at the San Diego County Fair this year, and the June 19 bouts included Lake Elsinore’s Tortuga winning the Golden State Championship match and Temecula’s Billy Clutch winning the battle royale.

Tortuga, who grew up in Corona and has lived in Lake Elsinore since 2008, pinned Fidel Bravo in the state championship bout. “To me I’m very proud of all the hard work I put into chasing this championship,” he said. “I’ve worked really hard over the past eight years.”

SoCal Pro Wrestling owner and promoter Jeff Dino and his family moved to Temecula after he founded SoCal Pro Wrestling in April 2007. The activity had included annual San Diego County Fair appearances prior to the 2020 coronavirus shutdown. This year So Cal Pro Wrestling returned to the San Diego County Fair for the fi rst time since 2019.

“The fair was fantastic,” Dino said.

“It was absolutely a great time,” Dino said. “It seemed like everybody had a great time in the arena.”

The wrestling had previously taken place in the fair paddocks before the fair organizers and Dino experimented with the Del Mar Arena this year. Dino began the planning process for the 2026 county fair matches at the beginning of the calendar year.

“I just hope everyone had a good time and enjoyed themselves,” Tortuga said.

“The fans seemed to have fun. That’s what really matters to me,” Clutch said.

“It was a fun experience,” said Wildomar wrestler Gunjack. “It was diff erent but fun.”

The Anarchy Dolls tag team consists of Wildomar’s Scarlet Charlotte and Temecula’s Adrienne Diamond. “It was an incredible experience,” Diamond

said of the county fair wrestling.

“Wrestling at the county fair’s a whole diff erent vibe,” Charlotte said. “It’s really special. We’re also able to bring our craft in front of new people.”

Tortuga’s first SoCal Pro Wrestling match was at the 2018 San Diego County Fair. “To be able to come back full circle and win the championship means the world to me,” he said.

Prior to the steel cage match for the Golden State Championship belt Tortuga pinned Andy Hollow in his other 2026 San Diego County Fair match. Gunjack, who has lived in Wildomar for the past three years and has been with SoCal Pro Wrestling for 2 1/2 years, was in a tag team match with Eddie Islas and against the Anarchy Dolls prior to the battle royale which involved all wrestlers other than Tortuga and Fidel Bravo. The Anarchy Dolls won that match.

Charlotte has been with SoCal Pro Wrestling since 2018. She attended Murietta Mesa High School and moved from Murrieta to Wildomar in 2021.

Diamond wrestled for Great Oak High School when she was a high school student. “I absolutely fell in love with it,” she said.

“I love women’s wrestling so much,” Diamond said. “It’s something that I cherish.”

Diamond has been with SoCal Pro Wrestling since the end of 2020.

Approximately 40 diff erent wrestlers took the mat during the 2026 San Diego County Fair. The SoCal Pro Wrestling heavyweight championship is separate from the Golden State Championship and Matthias won two June 19 matches to defend that championship. The second match was against both Clutch and Danny Cox. Clutch also wrestled earlier in the day and lost that match against DRE.

“To me it’s all about the fans,” Clutch said. “The emotions of the fans is what matters to me.”

The SoCal Pro Wrestling matches prior to the county fair took place May 17 at Lake Elsinore Storm Stadium. That day Matthias defeated Clutch to retain the heavyweight championship and Tortuga defeated Gunjack.

Many of the SoCal Pro Wrestling matches are held at the Vista Boys and Girls Club. Matches this year have also been held at Frontwave Arena in Oceanside, the CoLab brewery in Vista, Fiesta Old Town in San Diego, and the Inland Empire 66ers

stadium in San Bernardino. Last year a Dia De Los Muertos card was held in Lake Elsinore.

“We just don’t stay in San Diego or Vista. We also travel all over Southern California,” Dino said.

Clutch made his SoCal Pro Wrestling debut last year. He was raised in San Diego and Temecula and attended Great Oak High School and Mount San Jacinto College in Menifee. He moved to Florida before returning to Temecula in 2018.

Tortuga pinned Bravo following a fl ying body slam.

In between the matches the wrestlers held demonstrations with the public including children. “It was so amazing,” Diamond said.

“It’s been a unique experience, one that I hope we come back next year and do it again,” Clutch said.

The battle royale concluded by Clutch throwing Motros out of the ring, making Clutch the final wrestler in the ring. “I went Clutch mode,” he said.

Barnetts race lawnmowers at San Diego County Fair

Joe Naiman for the Valley News

The three-generation Barnett family raced lawnmowers during the 2026 San Diego County Fair.

Greg Barnett, who lived in Hemet for 20 years before moving to Mesa, Arizona, in

Publisher

Former Congressman Dr. Ron Paul recently raised concerns about a policy that has received less attention than I would expect. It’s the federal government’s occasional practice of taking ownership stakes in private companies. Whether one agrees with Dr. Paul’s libertarian philosophy or not, his warning deserves thoughtful consideration—not because the policy is necessarily catastrophic today, but because history shows that government involvement in the private sector tends to expand once the precedent is established.

The Trump administration has argued that purchasing equity in companies involved in strategically important industries—such as semiconductors, batteries, and critical minerals—is necessary to ensure America can compete economically and maintain a secure domestic supply chain. American businesses are competing against foreign companies that often receive substantial government backing, particularly from China. They argue that if the United States refuses to support its own industries, it risks surrendering technological leadership and economic security. It also allows these businesses to expand and provide more jobs, taxes, etc. It is not an unreasonable ar-

2020, competed with both his Modified and his Super Modified mowers and won two of the races which occurred three times a day between July 1 and July 5. Hemet resident Brad Barnett, who is Gary Barnett’s son and Tyler Barnett’s father, raced in all 15 sessions and won twice. Tyler Barnett, who was a

lifelong Hemet resident before moving to French Valley, also competed three times each day and had a couple of wins.

“It was a great track, good time,” Tyler Barnett said.

“It was a good time,” Brad Barnett said.

Brad and Tyler Barnett began their lawnmower racing careers

OPINION

gument.

In many ways, proponents see this as an effort to level an uneven global playing field. Much like affirmative action was originally presented as a temporary measure to correct perceived disadvantages, advocates believe targeted government investment can give American companies the boost they need to compete against heavily subsidized foreign rivals.

But history teaches that temporary government programs rarely remain temporary.

This is not the first time Washington has become a shareholder in a private enterprise. During the 2008 financial crisis, the Obama administration rescued General Motors and Chrysler with taxpayer funds, taking ownership stakes in both companies as part of their restructuring. At the time, supporters argued the intervention was necessary to prevent the collapse of the domestic auto industry, preserve hundreds of thousands of jobs and stabilize an economy already in freefall.

I’m sure some groups strongly objected, arguing that government should not be choosing winners and losers in the marketplace. Others accepted the intervention only because it was presented as an extraordinary response to an extraordinary emergency. What made it more palatable is that eventually, the government exited those invest-

ments. But the episode established an important precedent: the federal government could become a shareholder in private corporations.

Now, the rationale has shifted.

Instead of responding to an economic collapse, the government is increasingly using ownership stakes as a tool of industrial support and prosperity. The justification is no longer simply preventing bankruptcy. It is strengthening strategic industries and enhancing America’s competitive position. I don’t necessarily disagree with the goal.

The objectives may be different, but the underlying principle is remarkably similar.

Dr. Paul argues that once the government becomes an owner, even a minority owner, it inevitably gains influence over corporate decision-making. Businesses may begin responding not only to customers and shareholders but also to political priorities. Investment decisions, production strategies and research initiatives can become subject to political considerations that change from one administration to the next.

My concern would be that it would affect market consequences as well. When investors believe companies backed by the federal government enjoy an implicit safety net, those businesses may attract capital that otherwise would have gone to competitors. Companies that

in 2020, which is the year Tyler Barnett graduated from Hemet High School. This year the SoCal Mower Racing Club has also raced at Wheel2Wheel Raceway in Victorville, Industry Hills Speedway in the City of Industry, Perris Raceway, and the Norco fairgrounds.

Motorsports Week at the San

Diego County Fair is the final week of the fair. “It still went by too fast,” Tyler Barnett said.

“It’s a blast. We come here every year. It’s always a good time. Look forward to being here again next year,” Greg Barnett said.

succeed by serving consumers can find themselves competing against companies that also enjoy the confidence that comes with government backing.

Supporters counter that these investments are narrowly targeted, limited in scope and justified by national security concerns. They argue that ensuring reliable domestic production of critical technologies is fundamentally different from broad government ownership of industry.

Perhaps they are right.

The concern is not necessarily what today’s policymakers intend. It is how far tomorrow’s policymakers will take it. Also, their friends/donors are likely to get favoritism.

History offers countless examples of government authority expanding beyond its original purpose. Programs introduced as limited exceptions often become accepted practice. Powers granted during emergencies frequently remain long after the emergency has passed.

The Obama administration justified government ownership of automakers as an emergency response to an unprecedented financial crisis. I don’t necessarily disagree. I think it was helpful. The Trump administration justifies equity investments as necessary to compete with foreign adversaries and protect national security. I also don’t necessarily have a problem with

“helping” these companies. I would love some help for my company, although I wouldn’t want the government controlling what we print.

Future administrations—Republican or Democratic—will undoubtedly find their own compelling reasons to expand the practice even further.

That is why Dr. Paul’s warning deserves attention.

This debate should not revolve around whether one trusts President Trump, President Obama or any future president. Public policy should be evaluated on the principle it establishes, not merely the intentions of those temporarily exercising the authority.

That is a precedent worth debating before it quietly becomes the new normal. Similar concerns have been raised about California’s “billionaire’s tax,” which would shift taxation beyond annual income or realized gains to include the value of total assets that have not been realized and may fluctuate dramatically. While supporters view it as a way to ensure the wealthiest Americans pay more, critics argue it establishes a new principle of taxation that future lawmakers would eventually expand beyond billionaires to a much broader segment of taxpayers, including the struggling middle class.