Valley News - July 24, 2026

21-Year Regional Agreement to bolster water supply in Lake Elsinore

LAKE ELSINORE – July 16, 2026 – As one of Riverside County’s fastest-growing regions, Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District (EVMWD/District) continues planning ahead to ensure reliable water service for the communities it serves. This week, the District advanced that effort by securing access to an additional water supply through a 21-year regional water exchange agreement.

Approved this week by the boards of EVMWD and Western Municipal Water District (Western Water), the agreement provides EVMWD access to exchange water through....

Free nonprofit accounting workshop series to be held in Anza

Local nonprofit consultant Annika Knöppel of Administrative Support Services will present a free four-week workshop series designed to help nonprofit organizations build strong financial management practices.

Four workshops will be held Mondays beginning at 11:30 a.m. until about 12:30 p.m., Aug. 3 through Aug. 24, at the Anza Electric Cooperative ...

Temecula declares city debt-free after completing $78.6 million payoff

Julie Reeder Publisher

City officials announced that Temecula is debt-free after completing a multiyear plan that eliminated approximately $78.6 million in facility, pension and other long-term obligations while saving an estimated $47.7 million in interest.

City Manager Aaron Adams, joined by Finance Manager Jennifer Hennessy, announced the

financial milestone during the Temecula City Council meeting Tuesday, July 14.

“We can stand here before you tonight and we can declare — we are debt-free,” Adams said, drawing applause from council members and those attending the meeting.

Under the city’s definition, debt includes mortgages, facility loans, unfunded pension obligations and other long-term liabilities. Adams said most cities

Trump releases declassified election intelligence alleging Chinese interference and ‘deep state’ suppression

Julie Reeder Publisher

WASHINGTON — President

Donald Trump has released a series of newly declassified intelligence documents that his administration says reveal evidence of foreign election interference, vulnerabilities in U.S. voting systems and what officials describe as a yearslong effort by intelligence agencies to withhold key information from the president and the public.

The documents, posted on a new White House election integrity website following Trump’s July 17 primetime address, include intelligence assessments, investigative summaries and previously classified reports addressing electronic voting systems, alleged Chinese efforts to acquire American voter data, voter registration investigations and noncitizens on voter rolls.

According to the White House,

continue to carry at least some of those obligations.

Temecula had approximately $61.3 million in total debt during the 2012-13 fiscal year, according to Adams. The amount increased to approximately $64 million by fiscal year 2015-16, not including money the city later borrowed to build what is now known as the Margarita Recreation Center.

By 2022, the city’s obligations had reached approximately $70.3 million. City administrators then

presented the council with a seven-year plan to eliminate the debt while continuing to provide public services and complete parks, facilities and other capital projects.

“We were going to try to thread this needle, if you will, and pay off the credit card in seven years,” Adams said. The final amount eliminated under the plan was approximately

Fake Temecula firefighter social media accounts prompt investigation by Denton Texas Fire Department

Julie Reeder Publisher

A Facebook page and Instagram account that allegedly used a fabricated identity to promote a supposed Temecula Valley Unified School District board candidate have been removed as of Monday, July 20, after questions arose about the authenticity of the accounts. The investigation began after the Denton Fire Department in Texas alerted the Valley

News that the individual behind the profiles falsely claimed to be a Denton firefighter named Matt Callahan — a person the department says never existed. The Denton Fire Department launched an investigation into the fraudulent social media accounts after determining they falsely represented one of its firefighters, prompting officials to seek outside investigative assistance

see TRUMP, page A-8 see FAKE, page A-4

Community-led public mural debuts in Hemet

Diane A. Rhodes Writer

The San Jacinto Valley’s first community-led public mural was intentionally designed to be more than a commissioned piece of art. While a traditional commissioned mural is often created by a single artist, this project invited residents to help shape the vision, contribute their stories, pride, and love for Hemet, and literally put their brushstrokes on the mural through the Community Paint Day and Plein Air Day. Its title of “Your Horizon is Here” references the City of Hemet’s official community brand and slogan that was adopted earlier this year. The ribbon cutting and unveiling of the mural on July 15 was the culmination of this community journey. From the initial brainstorming sessions and online surveys to the organized paint days and the final artwork, residents have been involved every step of the way. The celebration honored that collective

see MURAL, page A-9

ceremony,

Soboba preschool hosts potty training party

ners offered a table full of helpful handouts. The whole event was geared toward engagement and teamwork.

her daughters Azaria, 3, and Aria, 2, were enjoying the games. “I’ve learned some tips that will be helpful,” she said.

There was a celebratory atmosphere at the Soboba Tribal Preschool multipurpose room as parents and their young children attended a potty-training luncheon event, July 9. Facilitators Amanda Nogales, Parent Partner I, and Ashley Sayers, Parent Partner II, from RSBCIHI’s Tribal Family Partners offered tips and answered questions, keeping the subject light and not like a lectured lesson.

Preschool Director Lenora “Ponie” Mojado said the past two summers this event has been held led to successful student enrollment and she expects the same this year. To be eligible to attend the preschool, children must be potty-trained and at least 3 years old by September 1. She welcomed all the little learners and their families to the event where all the teachers and staff introduced themselves. Mojado also made sure each attendee received a raffle ticket for their choice of some great prizes, from toys donated by Santa Claus Inc., a children’s potty chair donated by teacher Julissa Garcia and other great items donated by Soboba TANF.

Kids at the event were all at different stages of potty training and as the Parent Partners pointed out, each had their own cues and development timeline. There is no “right” age as to when a child should be or could be ready. Nogales said the range is typically from 18 months to 4 years with age two being the most common age that children show an interest and understanding of the subject. The Parent Partners like to refer to the process as toilet learning.

There were fun games set up around the multipurpose room that revolved around the theme.

The preschool teachers and staff helped young ones “Pin the Poo” in the toilet, fish for underpants and diapers and toss diaper “balls” into a make-believe toilet. They then treated the participants with fun trinkets from treasure boxes filled with stickers, whistles, hand-held games and more.

One of the most interactive games gave kids a chance to show off their wiping abilities. Two balloons attached to a chair’s rear were filled with shaving cream in the crack between them. Children were given toilet paper to practice reaching behind them to wipe the balloons clean. They each received a reward for their efforts.

Posters decorated the walls of the room with encouraging messages, such as “Potty like a Rockstar” featuring Hello Kitty and Spiderman figures. Most were created by the student workers that are assisting at the preschool this summer as part of the TANF WE LEAD internship program.

Kimani Resvaloso-Sanchez and Carolyn Hurtado will be assisting through the end of July, helping staff prepare classrooms for the upcoming school year.

The summery beach theme was evident throughout the room. A long table was set up with coloring pages and Tribal Family Part-

Nogales and Sayers applauded Mojado for hosting this event that brings in the parents to demonstrate the teamwork and partnership that exists. “It’s a big help when the parents are involved,” said Nogales, who was a preschool teacher for seven years and did not see these types of events held. Sayers said this program is just one of many offered by Tribal Family Partners that is strengths based. “We are all about listening to parents and meeting them where they’re at rather than dictating where they should be,” she said.

Assessing when the child is ready to begin potty training depends on several factors. A child should have sufficient muscle control and the ability to pull their pants up and down. The maturity of the bladder is also important. A good way to gauge this is if they have a dry diaper after napping and a steady flow rather than many episodes of a few dribbles. A child needs to be able to communicate when they need to use the toilet, whether through words, sounds, facial expressions or some other cue.

A child will need to be able to follow instructions before successful toilet training should be attempted. The desire to learn how to use the toilet will speed up the learning process greatly.

Before beginning to teach the child how to use the toilet, it is suggested to help them pick words to indicate they need to go and whether it’s pee or poo. Role modeling by letting the child see an older sibling or parent using the toilet and explaining what they are doing can also be helpful.

Nogales and Sayers emphasized the importance of discussing with their child’s teacher what the classroom routine is so they can better prepare them for using the toilet when they are at school and not in the familiar environment of their own home.

“Teach them proper hygiene habits and praise them for all they do,” Nogales said. “Encourage them to keep trying and praise any attempts for washing their hands and other little things they do.”

Daniel Briones’ daughter Qaasimal, 5, is starting kindergarten next month, and his son Too, also 4, will be headed to the Pre-K classroom. Both attended summer school there and enjoyed it.

“I like how they include culture in things they do here,” Briones said. “This event was a good learning experience.”

Felix Ortiz brought three of his children to the event, but was interested in finding some helpful tips as his three-year-old daughter Moyla is transitioning into being 100% toilet trained. He is looking forward to having her and his son Iswut, 4, both attending the preschool. His 10-year-old son Hunwut came along to support his siblings.

Stephanie Falcon said she was learning a lot at the event, where

Preschool classroom teacher Julissa Garcia was also there as the parent of a three-year-old who she hopes will attend the school next year. Tuukumit Herrera made his way around the room playing the different games and earning some great prizes, while Garcia found the event to be very helpful.

As a teacher of the youngest students, she realizes that many are just getting potty-trained. “I like that we get to team up with parents and families to work together to learn cues and patterns,” she said. “It always benefits the children.”

Sunnie Razon’s three-year-old daughter Millie, is doing really well with her toilet training and has successfully completed the preschool’s summer session. Mom said doing the training with her older sister, Khloe, made things a lot easier for Milie. Razon said the event offered some interesting tips and tricks and good insight into the issue.

After finishing lunch, playing games, and taking photos in front of the “Potty Time” backdrop filled with colorful balloons, families were invited to tour the classrooms and take home an enrollment packet if they didn’t already have one.

Tribal Family Partners is a grant-funded program that is free for all Native families with children from prenatal to kindergarten entry. They offer one-on-one home visits, parent/child activities, cultural events, development screenings, social emotional assessments, stress management and more to keep Native families motivated, healthy and strong. Their goal is to help parents help kids get school-ready. For more information, 951-849-4761, ext. 1136.

The 2026-2027 school year begins Aug. 4. If you are interested in learning more about the Soboba Tribal Preschool, please visit https://preschool.soboba-nsn. gov/ or call 951-487-8732.

JULY

City of Hemet to purchase 35 portable radios

Joe Naiman for the Valley News

The City of Hemet will be purchasing 35 portable radios for use by Hemet Police Department field personnel.

A 5-0 Hemet City Council vote July 14 approved the purchase of 35 Harris XL-300 portable radios from Hi-Desert Communications, whose headquarters is in Victorville. The November 2016 election included the passage of Measure U, which imposes a 1 percent sales tax for ten years to fund municipal services, and funding from that source will be used to pay the $320,474.59 amount stipulated in the purchase agreement.

The Hemet Police Department has utilized Harris handheld radios since 2014. A recent assessment identified numerous older radios which have deteriorated due to age and continued use. Those units are in need of replacement due to spare parts no longer being readily available and the radios exceeding the manufacturer’s supported service life.

The new Harris XL-300 portable radios will provide modern, reliable communications capabilities and enhance operational

effectiveness. City staff evaluated other portable radios with comparable capabilities and determined that the Harris XL-300 is the best fit for the department based on its cost-effectiveness, reliability, and seamless integration with the department’s existing Harris radio system. The National Association of State Procurement Officials has a cooperative purchasing agree-

ment which includes pricing. The Harris XL-300 radio is distributed through a regional sales structure and the Hemet Police Department must maintain compatibility with its existing radio fleet, but the NASPO agreement allows for the competitively-solicited pricing rather than a solesource procurement.

EVMWD Bolsters Long-Term Water Reliability with 21Year Regional Agreement

LAKE ELSINORE – July 16, 2026

– As one of Riverside County’s fastest-growing regions, Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District (EVMWD/District) continues planning ahead to ensure reliable water service for the communities it serves. This week, the District advanced that effort by securing access to an additional water supply through a 21-year regional water exchange agreement.

Approved this week by the boards of EVMWD and Western Municipal Water District (Western Water), the agreement provides EVMWD access to exchange water through Western Water’s partnership with the San Diego County Water Authority. The agreement marks another step in EVMWD’s long-term strategy to diversify its water supplies and build resilience against drought and future water supply challenges.

“Planning for the future means making smart decisions today,” said EVMWD Board President Andy Morris. “As our communities continue to grow, it’s our responsibility to continue pursuing reliable water supplies that will support our customers for decades.”

Earlier this year, Western Water entered into a long-term agreement with the San Diego County Water Authority that includes 10,000 acre-feet of exchange water annually, along with an additional 30,000 acre-feet of prepaid water available for future

FAKE from page A-1

to identify the person or group responsible.

David Boots, the department’s public information officer, said the account used the name “Matt Callahan” as a Denton firefighter. A department review determined that no fi refi ghter by that name has ever worked for the agency.

Boots said the only firefighter matching that name the department could identify was a fi refi ghter from Massachusetts who died last year.

Department officials also determined that photographs posted on the account did not depict Denton Fire Department personnel or equipment.

Boots said the uniforms, badges, fi re stations and fi re apparatus shown in the images did not match those used by the department.

One photograph that appeared to show a crew of nine firefighters was also determined to be fabricated, according to Boots, who said none of the individuals pictured were current or former Denton fi refi ghters.

Why would someone create false Facebook and Instagram accounts showing a fake retired fi refi ghter running for offi ce in Temecula? It could be for fun, or it could be to pull votes from the other candidate, which is election tampering.

TVUSD Board President Dr. Komrosky said, speaking personally and not on behalf of the board, “The reported use of an AI-generated social media account to impersonate a retired fi refi ghter is deeply concerning and has no place in our elections. Regardless of political differences, every candidate deserves a fair campaign free from deception, intimidation, and misinformation, and any credible reports of impersonation should be thoroughly investigated and those responsible held accountable.”

According to Captain Boots, the Denton Fire Department employs 235 career fi refi ghters

delivery. Through EVMWD’s agreement with Western Water, the District will receive 1,000 acre-feet of exchange water in 2026, increasing to 5,000 acrefeet annually beginning in 2027.

This additional supply will help EVMWD meet future water demands as the communities it

serves continue to grow.

The agreement provides EVMWD another highly reliable water supply option while maximizing existing regional infrastructure and expanding the District’s water supply flexibility.

“Our job is to think decades ahead,” said Greg Thomas,

who operate from nine stations. Information from those officials helped confirm that the account’s claims were inaccurate.

Boots said the department reported the account and its images to Meta and Instagram and attempted to contact the account directly through private messages but received no response.

Valley News reached out directly to the fake account and commented on the Matt Callahan Instagram account,

letting them know that they were suspected to be fraudulent, they were being investigated, and asking for the owner of the account to contact the paper. The accounts then appeared to be taken down the same day. Another profi le, apparently owned by the same person, was also taken down, and gave a clue to where “Matt Callahan” possibly came from. There were disturbing deepfake videos of local school board candi-

EVMWD general manager. “Reliable water requires thoughtful planning, strong regional partnerships and a commitment to continually expanding our water supply options. This agreement is an important step in ensuring we can continue meeting the needs of our customers today and well

into the future.”

The agreement reflects EVMWD’s ongoing commitment to investing in reliable water supplies while working collaboratively with neighboring agencies to responsibly manage regional water resources.

dates and community leaders.

The first video depicted Dr. Komrosky and his campaign manager Jason Craig having a baby, and the baby was “Matt Callahan”. This led people to believe that Callahan was likely an artificial intelligence-generated composite created from photographs of Craig and Dr. Komrosky.

The Denton department’s fi re chief, marketing and communications director and city man-

agement have been monitoring the situation. The Denton Fire Department is the only career fire department among the eight U.S. cities named Denton, further supporting the department’s conclusion that the account falsely claimed an affiliation with the agency. As of Monday, July 20, both the Facebook page and Instagram account associated with the alleged impersonation were still not publicly accessible.

Crossword Puzzle

THEME: CAMPING

45. *____ camping, or camping without

47. Siesta

48. “There it is,” à Paris

50. Gold or frankincense or myrrh, e.g.

52. *Fire starter

55. American chameleon

56. Antioxidant-rich berry

57. New Mexico art colony

59. Nymph chaser

60. Nonclerical

61. Poet Pound

62. High school parent org.

63. Be off base

64. Ready for picking DOWN

1. Eye infection

2. College party chant

3. Russia’s ____ Mountains

4. Western European city-state

5. Collectible in a cabinet

6. Skirt shape

7. Animal waste

8. Chocolate candy, to a Brit

9. Essence

10. Marketing creations 12. Gentle breeze

13. Raspberry drupelets

14. *Like drinking water

19. Customs and conventions

22. “Losing My Religion” band

23. *Leave no ____

24. Egyptian falcon god

25. Put out on a curb

26. Totes or tugs

27. Orient’s bigwig

28. Preface, e.g.

29. Piquant

32. *____ bag or ____ canister

33. Rage

36. *Waterproof cover (2 words)

38. Funny

40. Large edible mushroom

41. Of low pH

44. Serve food at events

46. Restaurant staff member

48. “The _____ of Wakefield”

49. On the radio (2 words)

50. *Annoying biting fly

51. Tiny quantity

52. Leafy green

53. Like Hitler’s Germany

54. *Good Ol’ Raisins and Peanuts

55. Venomous snake

58. Greek letters on campus

Supervisors extend lease for District Attorney’s office in Murrieta

Joe Naiman for the Valley News

The County of Riverside extended its lease with Valley View Commerce Center, LLC, for space which is used as the District Attorney’s office in Murrieta.

The Riverside County Board of Supervisors voted 3-0 July 14, with Chuck Washington and Manuel Perez absent, to approve a new lease agreement. The initial term will be from January 1, 2027, to December 31, 2028, and the agreement includes a twoyear option.

The facility in the 30000 block of Technology Drive totals 14,482 square feet of office space. The county has leased the premises since 2005. The previous lease was approved by the

county supervisors on November 2, 2021, and covered the period from January 1, 2022, to December 31, 2026. For Fiscal Year 2026-27 the county will pay $1.99 per square foot, which equates to $28,803.44 each month. The rate will increase to $2.04 per square foot, or $29,523.53 monthly, for Fiscal Year 2027-28. That $2.04 per square foot will remain the rate for the first six months of Fiscal Year 2028-29. Valley View Commerce Center, LLC, will pay for custodial and maintenance costs. The county will pay for electricity and telephone bills and Valley View Commerce Center, LLC, will be responsible for all other utilities, including water, sewer, and trash.

Temecula City Council authorizes bid process for Great Oak Trail lighting

Joe Naiman for the Valley News

The Temecula City Council authorized the advertisement for bids for the Great Oak Trail Lighting Project.

A 5-0 vote on July 14 authorized the county’s Department of Public Works to solicit construction bids for the project. The city council action also approved the contract documents and found the repair and maintenance of existing facilities to be categorically exempt from California Environmental Quality Act review.

The project will install 75

solar-powered lights along the Great Oak Trail adjacent to the northeast side of Pechanga Parkway from Deer Hollow Way to Loma Linda Road, which is a distance of approximately 1.70 miles or 8,976 feet. The lighting improvements will enhance visibility and safety for trail users while improving accessibility and connectivity along the Great Oak Trail corridor.

The city engineer’s construction cost estimate for the project is $335,000. The contract will stipulate a construction deadline of 60 working days from the Notice to Proceed.

Temecula City Council approves bid process for Station 73 gym and garage

Joe Naiman for the Valley News

The Temecula City Council approved the bid process for a gymnasium and a second garage at Fire Station 73.

A 5-0 vote July 14 authorized the city’s Department of Public Works to solicit construction bids for the project which will include a storage room along with the gym and the second garage. The action also approved the plans, specifications, and contract documents for the project and found the upgrades to an existing station to be categorically exempt from

B USINESS D IRECTORY

California Environmental Quality Act review. Station 73 is in the 27400 block of Enterprise Circle. The fire station currently has 8,000 square feet of space. The second garage, gymnasium, and storage area will increase that amount by 3,119 square feet.

The gymnasium will allow the firefighters and paramedics to remain at the station while working out. The second garage, which will be at the rear of the property, will allow for the parking of additional vehicles.

The engineer’s estimate for the project is $4,035,000.

Notice To Readers: California law requires that contractors taking jobs that total $500 or more (labor or materials) be licensed by the Contractors State License Board. State law also requires that contractors include their license number on all advertising. You can check the status of your licensed contractor at www.cslb.ca.gov or 800-321-CSLB. Unlicensed contractors taking jobs that total less than $500 must state in their advertisements that they are not

MWD approves replacement of San Diego Canal radial gates

Joe Naiman for the Valley News

The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California approved two contracts involving the replacement of two radial gates along the San Diego Canal.

Shimmick Construction Company, Inc., was awarded a $7,159,500 contract to replace the two gates. Lee + Ro, Inc., performed the final design work, and that contract was amended to add technical support services during construction. The contracts were approved during a single July 14 board motion.

Radial gates are used to shut down, isolate, and divert flows along the canal. Each radial gate is constructed of a steel framework that resembles a slice of pie with a curved plate that rotates to block flow when the gate is in the closed position. An electric motor actuator pivots the gate upward from the closed to the open position. The electric motor, hoisting mechanism, and radial gate are mounted on a concrete structure.

The Casa Loma Canal in San Jacinto is parallel to the Colorado River Aqueduct and connects to the San Diego Canal. Gate V-08, which has a width of 15 feet and a height of 15 feet, is located at the turnout from the Casa Loma Canal to the San Diego Canal. The gate was originally installed 45 years ago and was replaced during the San Diego Canal Enlargement Project in the early 1990s.

Radial gate V-06 controls flow from the San Diego Canal into Lake Skinner. That gate has a

MWD obtains water from the Colorado River Aqueduct, which transports water from Parker to Lake Mathews and from the State Water Project, which brings water from Oroville to Lake Skinner. The San Diego Canal conveys both Colorado River water and State Water Project supply to the Robert A. Skinner Treatment Plant. The Colorado River Aqueduct was constructed during the 1930s before becoming operational in 1941, and the San Diego Canal was part of the 1950s aqueduct expansion.

width of 30 feet and a height of 15 feet. It has been in continuous service since its original installation in the 1970s and has received routine maintenance during that time.

Inspections have identified that the gates’ structural load-bearing components are severely corroded and require replacement. Protective coatings on various components of the gates have begun to fail. The gates have a fiberglass laminate applied to the curved plate’s face in contact with water, and the laminate is deteriorating and has pulled away from the curved plate in several instances. Significant metal loss has occurred on portions of the steelwork and mounting brackets. Interim repairs were needed on radial gate V-08, which consisted of patch plates welded over cracks to reinforce the gate; those weld repairs were temporary fixes to prevent catastrophic failure and keep the gate functioning until a new gate is installed. The existing motor actuators used to open and close the gates have also deteriorated.

The final design for the replacement of the gates has been completed. The project was advertised for bid on March 20. Five companies responded by the May 14 deadline. Shimmick Construction Company, which is based in Irvine, had the low bid of $7,159,500. The second-lowest bid of $7,737,000 was submitted by J.F. Shea Construction, Inc., of Walnut.

The engineer’s estimate was $8,800,000. Shimmick will use two subcontractors: Hardy and Harper of Lake Forest will provide asphalt concrete paving and Southern Contracting Company of San Marcos will handle the electrical work.

The scope of construction includes fabricating and installing new stainless-steel radial gates, fabricating drop gates that will be used to facilitate radial gate installation, replacing the gate actuators, electrical upgrades, and paving and grading improvements. MWD staff will perform shutdown work on the canal, including dewatering in preparation for the contractor work. The

work activity will be performed over two planned shutdowns scheduled for February 2027 and February 2028. During the first shutdown, detailed measurements will be taken, and guide rails for the new gates will be installed. Shimmick will demolish the existing gates and install the replacement gates during the second shutdown.

The contract with Lee + Ro, whose office is in the City of Industry, was increased by $515,000 to create a total maximum amount of $1,419,000. The technical support will include responding to contractor information requests, reviewing submittals, advising staff on technical issues as they arise during construction, and preparing record drawings.

The total $10,900,000 budgeted for the project also includes $880,000 for MWD work, $946,000 for construction management and inspection, $453,000 for contract administration, environmental monitoring, and project management, and a $460,500 contingency.

County approves law enforcement services agreement with LEUSD, MVUSD

Joe Naiman for the Valley News

The July 14 meeting of the Riverside County Board of Supervisors included approval of agreements with four school districts, including the Lake Elsinore Unified School District and the Murrieta Valley Unified School District, to provide law enforcement services.

The Lake Elsinore and Murrieta district contracts both cover the period from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027, and replace expiring contracts to provide school resource officers.

Separate 3-0 votes, with Chuck Washington and Manuel Perez absent, approved the agreements.

The Sheriff’s Department will provide school resource officers and the school districts will reimburse the county for the cost of the law enforcement services. The cost is based on projected service hours and mileage. The school resource officer duties will include patrol and maintenance of order on school campuses, investigation of crimes, class presentations about law enforcement activities, counseling of students and parents,

and acting as liaisons at school sites. The liaison activities will also include interaction with other law enforcement officers, attendance review board members, and Probation Department personnel. Incidents that are not school-related will be handled by the law enforcement agency that has jurisdiction where the incident occurred.

Six school resource officers will be provided to the Lake Elsinore Unified School District, which will reimburse the county an estimated $1,369,000. The school resource officers will provide services at Alberhill

Elementary School, Cottonwood Canyon Elementary School, Donald Graham Elementary School, Earl Warren Elementary School, Elsinore Elementary School, Jean Hayman Elementary School, Luiseno School, Machado Elementary School, Railroad Canyon Elementary School, Rice Canyon Elementary School, Ronald Reagan Elementary School, Tuscany Hills Elementary School, Wildomar Elementary School, William Collier Elementary School, Withrow Elementary School, Canyon Lake Middle School, David Brown Middle School,

MWD approves new license agreement with CDFW

Joe Naiman for the Valley News

The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California approved a new license agreement with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife for MWD lakes in southern Riverside County.

The July 14 MWD board meeting included a unanimous vote to authorize a new license agreement with CDFW to allow

for the storage of boats, law enforcement vehicles, and related equipment for continued enforcement of state conservation, environmental laws, and fishery protection at Diamond Valley Lake, Lake Skinner, and surrounding lakes. The initial term of the agreement will be for five years, and four five-year options will create an agreement term of up to 25 years. CDFW will not be charged for utilizing the MWD property.

Diamond Valley Lake was completed in 2000 and has a storage capacity of 810,000 acre-feet with a surface water elevation of 1,756 feet above sea level. The lake is used for fishing as well as for storage of MWD supplies. MWD has worked with CDFW in the development of boating and fishing activities since the construction of the lake.

In 2021 MWD entered into a short-term license agreement

with CDFW for the storage of boats and equipment used to manage and regulate recreational fishing, enforce natural resource laws, and maintain a healthy fish stock at Diamond Valley Lake, Lake Skinner, and surrounding lakes. The storage area west of Darlene Lane is approximately 7,400 square feet. The initial five-year agreement has an expiration date of August 31, 2026. CDFW requested that the arrangement be extended for

land

School,

Middle School,

Temescal

ga Continuation High School, the Keith McCarthy Academy, Heald Academy, and the Jeanette Ellis Center. A single school resource officer will be assigned to the Murrieta Valley Unified School District, whose estimated reimbursement cost is $223,000. That deputy will have duties at Lisa J. Mails Elementary School and at Dorothy McElhinney Middle School.

up to 25 years to allow the state agency to continue its current operations. MWD staff determined that the benefits continue to exceed the fees and that a new longer-term license should be established as a mutual benefit agreement with all fees waived. CDFW’s presence and patrolling activities protect not only the environment and wildlife resources but also guests, invitees, and MWD employees at the lakes.

Parks district to replace Lake Skinner splash pad equipment

The splash pad at the Lake Skinner Recreation Area will be replaced. The Riverside County Regional Park and Open Space District will be issuing a purchase order for replacement equipment. The Riverside County Board of Supervisors, which also acts as the

board for the Riverside County Regional Park and Open Space District, voted 3-0 on July 14 with Chuck Washington and Manuel Perez absent to authorize a purchase order. The equipment will be obtained from Knorr Systems, Inc., which is based in Santa Ana, for $74,999.

The Lake Skinner splash pad was built in 2010. The existing splash pad equipment has reached

the end of its useful service life, and replacement components are no longer reliably available. The upgraded equipment will also improve the ground spray system to ensure compliance with health and safety standards, improve operational reliability, and enhance visitor experience.

BECS Technology, based in St. Louis, is the manufacturer of the equipment. Because Knorr

Temecula City Council authorizes bids for slurry seal contract

Joe Naiman for the Valley News

The Temecula City Council authorized the advertisement for bid of a construction contract for the citywide slurry seal program.

The city council voted 5-0 July 14 to authorize the city’s Department of Public Works to solicit construction bids. The vote also approved the plans, specifications, and program documents and found the repair and maintenance of existing streets to be categorically exempt from California Environmental Quality Act review.

The slurry seal will protect the roadways against water in-

trusion and thus reduce the risk of deterioration of the asphalt concrete surface. Slurry seal is ideally applied every five to seven years and prolongs pavement life, which delays more costly rehabilitation measures such as asphalt concrete overlays or removal and reconstruction. The slurry seal process applies a mixture of asphalt emulsion, fine aggregate, water, and additives to create a new wearing surface. The roadway preparation includes removal of existing striping and pavement markings, patching highly distressed areas, cleaning the roadway surface, and sealing large cracks. The application of the slurry seal is followed

by the restoration of striping and pavement markings.

The city has a pavement management program. A 2024-25 pavement condition survey assessed current pavement conditions, the time elapsed since the last preventative maintenance measure, and the geographical proximity of potential streets. That information was used to prioritize a list of road segments for the future year slurry seal treatment. The streets to be resurfaced for the 2026-27 work are in the Harveston, Wolf Creek, and Vintage Hills communities.

Systems is the only sales, service, and warranty administrator of BECS Technology equipment in California, a sole-source contract was issued, and the competitive bidding process was not used. Park district staff reviewed the pricing using the manufacturer’s published pricing, comparisons with similar proprietary splash pad equipment purchases, and an evaluation of the labor, instal-

lation requirements, and proprietary components included in the quotation. The review determined the Knorr Systems pricing to be fair and reasonable for the scope of work and consistent with manufacturer-authorized pricing for proprietary equipment and associated services.

Temecula to install Auto Mall wayfinding signs

Joe Naiman for the Valley News

The City of Temecula will be installing wayfinding signs in the Auto Mall area.

A 5-0 Temecula City Council vote on July 14 awarded a construction contract to Express Sign & Neon to provide and install four new wayfinding signs along Ynez Road within the Auto Mall area. The Los Angeles company will be paid $298,860 for the work. The city council action also included a finding that the project, which is entirely within existing developed roadway medians and does not result in habitat impacts, is exempt from Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan fees. A total budget of $328,746 was approved for the project, and the

city council also authorized the City Manager to approve any necessary construction change orders with a cumulative maximum of $29,886.

The wayfinding signs will assist patrons and the public in finding their destinations. The design, finish, and locations of the signs were selected in coordination with the City Manager’s office. The construction contract was advertised for bid on May 5, and the engineer’s estimate was $370,000.

Four bids were received by the June 4 deadline. Express Sign & Neon submitted the low bid of $298,860.00. Front Signs, Inc., of Burbank had the second-lowest bid at $368,537.50. The contract calls for the work to be completed within 60 working days after the Notice to Proceed is issued.

TRUMP from page A-8

the records show intelligence agencies had identified security vulnerabilities in electronic voting and ballot-counting systems and possessed intelligence regarding China’s alleged acquisition and exploitation of U.S. voter information during the 2020 election cycle. The administration also contends that some intelligence officials deliberately suppressed or failed to fully share those findings with senior government leaders and the public.

Trump described the release as part of a broader transparency initiative, saying Americans deserved access to information that had remained classified for years.

The White House organized the release into several categories, including:

• Vulnerabilities in electronic voting and ballot-counting systems.

• China’s acquisition and exploitation of American voter data.

• A Michigan voter-registration investigation.

• Information regarding noncitizens on state voter rolls.

Administration officials said the documents demonstrate that U.S. intelligence agencies had raised concerns about election infrastructure security and foreign influence operations well before the information became public. White House officials also argued that portions of the intelligence community failed

to adequately brief elected leaders or pursue further investigations into some of the intelligence findings.

The release immediately drew national attention and renewed debate over the 2020 election.

Critics, however, questioned whether the newly released material substantiates Trump’s broader claims that foreign interference altered election outcomes. Several news organizations reported that while the documents contain previously classified material, they do not establish that Chinese activities changed vote totals or provide definitive proof of widespread election fraud.

The White House maintains that the significance of the documents lies not only in the intelligence itself but also in what officials characterize as a pattern of institutional suppression.

In a statement accompanying the release, the administration said the documents reveal “foreign election interference, serious vulnerabilities in U.S. election infrastructure, and deliberate efforts by intelligence officials to withhold critical information from the President and the American people.”

The administration has directed the FBI, CIA and Department of Justice to review the newly declassified intelligence and examine allegations that relevant information was concealed from senior government officials during and

after the 2020 election cycle.

The White House said additional declassified records may be released as the review continues.

Many thought President Trump would highlight the election investigation from Fulton County, Georgia, but he instead focused on Muskegon, Michigan. In the fall of 2020, the city clerk in Muskegon started receiving thousands of new voter registrations when the city usually receives around 250. Over 8,000 new registrations were delivered by GBI Strategies, a company contracted by major democratic groups for millions of dollars in the 2020 election cycle.

The clerk noticed identical handwriting on the signatures on many of the registrations and called the authorities. Investigators raided GBI’s offices in Michigan, seized prepaid gift cards, company records, and five semi-automatic rifles with suppressors and five customized pistols. It got handed over to the Biden FBI and buried. That was it, according to President Trump.

Rather than litigating the 2020 election, it appeared he was exposing the receipts and proof that were declassified and put online for transparency purposes. Secretary Mullins made clear that the full enforcement and prosecution powers of the US government will now be deployed against the apparatus and any laws that were broken.

Dear Community Partner,

This fall, a United States Marine Corps unit will return home after an overseas deployment. After months of serving our nation, these Marines will have only a few short weeks before celebrating one of the Marine Corps’ most cherished traditions – the Marine Corps Birthday Ball on November 6, 2026.

Ordinarily, Marines spend months raising the funds necessary to host this event. This year, however, their focus should be where it belongs: reuniting with their families, returning to training, and preparing for the next mission.

To make that possible, Cookouts & Camaraderie, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is leading this community fundraising effort on their behalf. We are honored to have the support of Temecula Mayor Jessica Alexander, a Marine Corps veteran who served as a Staff Sergeant, along with the City of Murrieta and many dedicated community partners who are standing together to recognize the sacrifice and service of these extraordinary Marines.

The Marine Corps Birthday Ball is far more than a formal dinner. It is a time-honored tradition celebrating the founding of the United States Marine Corps on November 10, 1775 - an evening to honor those who came before us, remember our fallen, celebrate the Marines serving today, and recognize the families who stand beside them.

Our goal is to raise $75,000 to fully fund the 2026 Marine Corps Birthday Ball, including the venue, meals, Marine Corps traditions and ceremonies, decorations, entertainment, annual unit gifts, and family morale support.

We respectfully invite you to partner with us by making a financial contribution or providing an in-kind donation. One hundred percent of every financial contribution and in-kind donation goes directly toward supporting the 2026 Marine Corps Birthday Ball. No funds are used for personal benefit.

Cookouts &Camaraderie, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization (EIN33-1232481), and contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.

We kindly ask that your gift be received by October 1,2026, to allow sufficient time to finalize preparations for this special evening. Together, we can welcome these Marines home not just with words, but with action. By standing together as a community, we can show our gratitude for their sacrifice and ensure they know they are appreciated, valued, and never forgotten.

Thank you for your generosity and support.

Semper Fidelis, Jeff Mendez Founder & President, Cookouts & Camaraderie,Inc.

Jessica Alexander Mayor, City of Temecula Marine Corps Veteran,Staff Sergeant To Donate or Become a Sponsor: Cookouts & Camaraderie, Inc. www.cookoutsandcamaraderie.com

The Temecula City Council enjoys the moment at the July 14 council meeting while learning that their plan to become debt free has taken 4 years instead of 7 and they have save $47 million in interest. City of Temecula Council meeting -YouTube screenshot DEBT from page A-1 done for the city of Temecula,” Rahn said. “This is huge.”

$78.6 million. The city completed the seven-year strategy in about 4½ years, Adams said.

Adams said he signed the wire transfer for the city’s final payment to the California Public Employees’ Retirement System, bringing Temecula’s pension obligations to 100% funded.

“We have saved over $47.7 million in total interest with this plan,” Adams said. “I can’t say enough about the discipline that was exercised.”

Adams credited the council with adhering to the financial plan despite opportunities to spend the money on other priorities.

“You stuck to your guns for four and a half years,” Adams said. “We didn’t even have to wait seven, and we stand here today as a debt-free city, the only one that I can find.”

Hennessy also credited the council’s commitment to the plan.

“We bring forward the recommendations, but you’re the ones who execute them,” she said.

Hennessy said staff members worked with CalPERS to determine how many other California cities had eliminated their pension obligations. Some municipalities that report no pension debt have issued other forms of debt to pay it off, she said.

“We are the only city of our size that has completely paid off our pension,” Hennessy said. “It is pretty remarkable.”

Mayor Jessica Alexander said the achievement reflected a culture of fiscal responsibility maintained by current and former council members and city employees.

“This is part of the culture,” Alexander said. “We are a conservative city in the sense of wanting to make sure we are fiscally responsible for everything we do, and it shows.”

Alexander said the council could have directed the money toward new construction or other visible projects but instead chose to strengthen Temecula’s longterm financial position.

“We could have built something, but this gives us the opportunity to be responsible, continue a strong foundation in our city and be able to build something else later on that might be even more powerful and meaningful for our community,” Alexander said.

Mayor Pro Tem Matt Rahn recalled asking Adams in 2022 what major objective the city could accomplish that year. Adams and Hennessy responded with the proposal to eliminate the city’s long-term financial obligations.

“It was a huge commitment on behalf of the council to basically say, ‘We’re going to forego our concepts of what we need to do in terms of capital expenditures and pension paydowns,’” Rahn said.

Rahn said he supported bringing the proposal to the council without hesitation.

“I cannot thank the two of you, and especially Ms. Hennessy, enough for doing what you’ve

Councilmember James “Stew” Stewart noted that Temecula continued building recreational facilities while paying down its obligations.

“Not only did we pay down the debt during that four-year period, but we built a pickleball complex of over $4 million, a skating rink of about $3.8 million, and now we’re doing a skate park of another $3 million-plus,” Stewart said.

Stewart said the elimination of debt gives the city more freedom to pay cash for public improvements.

“We’re basically paying cash for everything because we have it now, because we’re not paying it toward debt,” Stewart said.

The city has also established several reserve accounts, including an irrevocable pension trust funded with $10 million during the current budget year. Adams said the trust will help future city budgets maintain fully funded pension obligations and direct additional resources toward public services and projects.

Councilmember Brenden Kalfus said eliminating the debt was a major accomplishment, but he cautioned that future councils and city employees must remain committed to the same financial practices.

“This is a huge milestone, but it’s important for us, future councils and future staff to stay on the same boat because we know how hard it is to get out of debt,” Kalfus said. “It’s easy to go back into debt.”

Kalfus said maintaining fiscal discipline is central to the city’s identity.

“It’s important that we all stick to what we believe is the foundation of Temecula and what makes Temecula the best city,” he said.

Councilmember Zak Schwank described the accomplishment as unusual among California municipalities.

“This is just the pinnacle of that,” Schwank said. “This is rare air. I’ve also looked, and I can’t find a city in the state of California that can claim this. It’s just absolutely unbelievable.”

Schwank said the achievement required council members to set aside some of their individual goals and projects in favor of a shared long-term objective.

“This is so meaningful — that we can put aside some of the differences that we have,” Schwank said. “It really speaks to how we can work together as a council to better this city for the residents and their future, because we really just did that today.”

Although officials said they could not identify another California city of comparable size with no facility or unfunded pension debt, that statewide distinction has not been independently verified. The debtfree designation also does not mean Temecula has no routine operating expenses, contracts or short-term bills. It refers to the city’s elimination of the longterm obligations identified in its financial plan.

effort and allowed the community to experience the completed mural together for the first time.

The event, as well as the work itself, highlighted a diverse slice of community involvement. Healthy Valley Foundation served as the backbone organization and project coordinator, the City of Hemet provided leadership and support for public art and downtown revitalization, Altura Credit Union was a premier sponsor and storytelling partner, Riverside Arts Council provided technical assistance and public art expertise, lead muralist Rosy Cortez served as mentor and artistic genius, members of the Hemet Valley Art Association continually supported artist engagement and community connections, Elite Customs Construction donated a portion of needed wall repairs, and dozens of residents, artists, volunteers, and local businesses helped bring the mural to life.

There were more than 100 guests on hand for the reveal at the corner of Carmalita St. and Florida Ave.at 5:30 p.m. Emcee Jennifer Cortes, Communications and Events Coordinator for the City of Hemet, was joined by Mayor Linda Krupa, Altura Credit Union President and CEO Jennifer Binkley, and Healthy Valley Foundation President and CEO Jennifer O’Farrell. They shared how this effort took the public, private, nonprofit, education, community and artists to complete. Included were positive comments on the importance of art and revitalizing communities, and art as a vehicle for well-being.

“For Healthy Valley Foundation, art is not a luxury to us—it is a vital condition for connection and community well-being through neighborhood pride, revitalizing areas and increasing walkability,” O’Farrell said. “Our goal is to fund and coordinate the partners and secure the resources to make it possible.”

She said the Foundation’s work is centered on integrated collaboration—uniting government, institutions, business, nonprofits, residents, and youth—around a shared vision, or “North Star” as she calls it.

“We are dedicated to advancing equitable health, well-being, and resiliency of people in the San Jacinto Valley,” O’Farrell said.

She said the mural project also serves as a workforce and creative economy initiative as part of the Foundation’s Upward Social Mobility pillar.

“Through an open call for artists, we received the largest response we have seen for a local public art opportunity, resulting in the selection of 11 Emerging Artists ranging from youth to experienced creatives,” O’Farrell said. “These artists worked alongside lead muralist Rosy Cortez, brought to us by Riverside Arts Council, who provided the emerging artists mentorship, hands-on training, and real-world experience in public art, helping to cultivate the next generation of local muralists and creative leaders for our valley.”

The unveiling was a culmination of 40-plus residents who shared their vision to craft the mural, 28 residents who attended the Community Paint Day, nearly 60 hours of planning and meetings, and 261 hours of artistic work provided by the Emerging Artists. O’Farrell summarized the 11 talented individuals.

Agustin Rosas: A Hemet resident, local tattoo artist, and community volunteer, Agustin brought previous mural experience and a passion for giving back through art. His commitment to providing free art classes for local youth reflects his belief that creativity can strengthen community connections.

Alex Aguirre: With more than 20 years of mural experience, Alex contributed both artistic expertise and mentorship to the project. Having called Hemet home for nearly two decades, he was excited to help create a mural that celebrates the community he proudly represents.

Artemis Jahansooz: Artemis is an interdisciplinary artist and designer whose work blends illustration, photography, graphic design, and storytelling. Inspired by the Inland Empire, Artemis views public art as a way to transform spaces into places where communities feel connected, welcomed, and represented.

Avel Walker: Avel is a multidisciplinary artist whose work centers on storytelling, community, and personal growth. Living in San Jacinto and actively serving the Hemet community through his church, he believes art has the power to challenge perceptions and inspire hope.

Carla Perez: A self-taught artist with mural experience in Tijuana, Mexico, Carla brings a strong foundation in acrylic and oil painting, along with experience completing commissioned murals. Her participation reflects a desire to expand opportunities for public art throughout the region.

Eileen Lee: As a Mt. San Jacinto College student studying mural arts, Eileen brought fresh creative energy and a collaborative spirit. Her recent coursework and experience developing mural concepts made this project an opportunity to apply her education while contributing to her local community.

Eric Urena: Eric is an interdisciplinary artist whose work explores identity, narrative, and personal experience. Raised in Hemet and educated at UCLA, he returned to contribute to the community that shaped his artistic journey, bringing both technical skill and a thoughtful creative perspective.

Esmeralda Garcia: Esmeralda is a Southern California artist whose vibrant acrylic and pastel works are influenced by her Mexican heritage. Her colorful artistic style and appreciation for the Inland Empire’s landscapes contributed to the mural’s celebration of community, culture, and resilience.

Nancy Martin: Nancy is an accomplished visual artist with more than 20 years of experience creating murals and large-scale public artwork. Having made Hemet her home, she brought professional expertise and a deep appreciation

for the Valley’s people, landscapes, and sense of belonging.

Sidonia Carrillo: Born and raised in Hemet, Sidonia has become an emerging leader within the Inland Empire arts community. Her connection to the valley is deeply personal, and she viewed the mural as an opportunity to celebrate the memories, relationships, and hometown pride that have shaped her life.

Zallah Hobson: Just turning 18 years old, Zallah represents the next generation of local artists. A lifelong Hemet resident, she has already exhibited work through the Hemet Valley Art Association and local youth entrepreneur events. The mural provided an opportunity to further develop her artistic skills while contributing to a project that reflects her hometown.

Visit Rosy Cortez’s website to learn more about her and to see the mural’s progress in action, www.paintedrosy.com/rosymurals/ hemet-mural.

Healthy Valley Foundation, established in 2013, was named California Nonprofit of the Year in 2025 by Assemblymember Dr. Corey Jackson. The organization focuses on advancing health equity, expanding access to care, and promoting upward social mobility. Through strategic partnerships and community-centered initiatives, the Foundation works to build a thriving, resilient valley—planting the seeds of well-being for generations to come.

For more information, www. healthyvalleyfoundation.org

SPORTS

Finger wins Hobby Stocks main

Joe Naiman for the Valley News

On the first day of Barona Speedway’s two-day Summer Shootout, Murrieta driver Edward Finger won the July 17 Hobby Stocks main event for his first win in that class.

The win was in Finger’s fifth Barona Speedway main event in that division. “I can’t believe it,” he said.

The 2020 Vista Murrieta High School graduate began racing in Barona’s Sport Compact division in June 2021 and raced in that class through 2022. His first career victory was at Perris Auto Speedway in May 2022, and later that month he obtained his first Barona Speedway win. Finger won two additional races at Perris that year.

Finger had one Pure Stocks race in 2022 and also competed in that Barona Speedway division from 2023 to 2025. An August 2023 main event win was his first in that class. He won ten Pure Stocks main events in 2024 and two in 2025, including the final race of last year.

The Hobby Stock with a 2020 Dodge Charger chassis was purchased from a Las Vegas driver. Finger made his Hobby Stocks debut on April 11, finished second in the heat race, was leading the main event before he spun in the fourth lap, moved back into second place, and exited early after his ignition coil broke. Finger was second in the May 9 main event.

Two Hobby Stocks raced on May 16 at Merced Speedway. Finger finished ahead of Merced driver Brian Post, so it was officially a victory, but it does not have the status of Finger’s win in the nine-car July 17 race.

“I’m going to consider this my first win,” Finger said of his Barona victory. Finger was second in Barona’s June 6 main event. On June 20, he won the heat race and was third in the feature.

Heat races at Barona are eight laps on the quarter-mile dirt oval. Finger began the July 17 heat on the inside of the third row. He passed San Diego driver Jason Painter to take third and battled Brawley’s Thomas Daffern for second. Daffern edged Finger at the finish line of the heat race won by Yuma’s Scott Tenney. Daffern’s brother, Cody, was fourth behind Finger.

“Had a really good tough battle with Scott Tenney and Tom Daffern racing back and forth with each other,” Finger said.

Although drivers compete with each other, they also help each other out with parts. Gilbert, Arizona, driver Nic Saviglio Jr. was eighth in the heat race, and between the heat and the main Finger provided Saviglio and his crew with a transmission.

Canyon Lake driver David Stites was on vacation and did not race in the Summer Shootout, but Stites loaned Finger a set of rear

shocks for the Charger. “I can’t thank him enough,” Finger said. Thomas Daffern began the 20lap main event on the pole while Finger was on the outside of the front row. “Had a real good battle for the first couple of laps,” Finger said. “He kind of ran me high a little bit in turns one and two.”

Finger countered in turns three and four. “I gave him just a little, not enough, room on the bottom,” Finger said.

Daffern initially had the lead. Finger noted that the racing between the two is friendly. “Tommy’s helped me out a bunch with this newer class,” Finger said.

A yellow flag caution or red flag stoppage causes (with some exceptions, most notably the final five laps of a race) a “Delaware restart” in which the leader is by himself and the other cars are lined up two wide. A third-lap yellow flag put Thomas Daffern in the front for the restart with Finger and Cody Daffern immediately behind. Finger was on the inside.

Finger took the lead near the end of the restarted lap. “I got a great run coming off of (turn) 2. Got to the inside of him and was just able to check out,” he said. “I just tried to start clicking laps and taking my time and not overthinking it.”

The risk of overdriving and the chance of another yellow flag causing a restart, which would negate any distance advantage, made a sustained pace preferable to trying to increase his lead on the Daffern brothers. Finger also noted that he was able to drive on the bottom, which would force either Daffern to pass on the outside.

“I loved the track,” Finger said.

Another yellow flag occurred when Lakeside’s Quentin Sprecco, who was in his first race ever in the Hobby Stocks division and his first race in any class since 2024, spun entering the far straightaway. By that time, Tenney had passed Cody Daffern for third, so Thomas Daffern and Tenney were immediately behind Finger.

Cody Daffern was able to regain third on the restart, but Finger kept the lead. “I would say I drive very hard the first two laps and then cruise control,” Finger said of restarts.

At the end of the 19th lap Finger lost control of the car temporarily but was able to maintain forward motion. “Made a mistake in turn four coming to the white,” he said.

Finger ensured that he would not create those circumstances again. “I just really underdrove turns one, two, three, and four on the last lap to make sure I didn’t make a mistake,” he said.

The previous races in which Finger had a lead and spun turned out to be lessons for his July 17 victory. “I’ve done it multiple times, so I knew what to do this time,” he said.

Thomas Daffern was leaving

turn four when Finger crossed the finish line. “It was a fun time in the car, and it was good to get the monkey off my back,” Finger said.

Finger’s crew members include his parents, Norm and Jenny, along with Savannah Armenta, Mike Dow, Levi Dube, Brian Fitzgibbons, Robert Norris, and Jason Pontsler. Finger is sponsored by Charger Chassis, Critical Hit Baits, DD West Race Wraps, Eddie’s Horse Trailer Service and Repair, Eric Crain Media, Frye Mechanical, Heaven on Earth Family Child Care, Mary Kay by Jenny Lee, Mike Pridgeon Racing Rear Ends, and Showtime Motorsports.

Fitzgibbons, who is Finger’s uncle, drives in the IMCA Stock Cars class and was third in the July 17 main event. The day before the race was Fitzgibbons’ 44th birthday. July 21 is the sobriety anniversary for Finger’s father.

“Plenty to party for tonight,” Finger said.

“The Odyssey”

By Bob Garver

Few film adaptations require more ambition than Homer’s “The Odyssey,” the quintessential epic. And perhaps no filmmaker has been more ambitious this millennium than Christopher Nolan, the man who told an entire story backward with “Memento,” conquered the superhero genre with his “Dark Knight” trilogy, and dominated the Oscars three years ago with “Oppenheimer.” If anyone can handle a challenge as vast as “The Odyssey,” it’s Nolan. I can report that he indeed succeeds in the challenge… to a degree.

This being a Nolan movie, it should come as no surprise that the movie plays around a lot with chronology and time progression (see also: the competing one-hour/one-day/one-week/onemonth storylines in “Dunkirk”).

Basically, the movie splits its time between King Odysseus (Matt Damon) of Ithaca taking 20 years to fight and then return from the Trojan War, and his family toward the end of that 20 years needing to do something about vacant throne and the glut of scheming suitors squatting in the castle hoping to wed the possibly-widowed Queen Penelope (Anne Hathaway) so they can become king as the expense of rightful heir Prince Telemachus (Tom Holland), Odysseus’s son. Odysseus wins the war with the help of some underhanded tactics that displease the gods. His trip home is then cursed with a series of winds and storms that blow his ships off course, plus deadly detours involving a Cyclops, giant Laestrygonian warriors, soul-piercing Siren songs, a witch (Samantha Morton) that turns his crew into pigs, and other nasty surprises. Less nasty is the several amnesia-ridden years he spends marooned on an island with the nymph Calisto (Charlize Theron), but a delay is a delay. Back on Ithaca, suitors are

overrunning the palace, and Penelope and Telemachus are at their wits’ end. They can’t just order them to leave, because their royal duties require them to be accommodating to strangers, but those rules were designed to help humble paupers, not these well-off freeloaders. Telemachus could assume the throne, but he’d become a target for assassination, and Holland doesn’t exactly have spider powers in this movie. Penelope could remarry, and suitor Antinous (Robert Pattinson) is at the front of the line if she makes that choice, but she really wants Odysseus to return and set things right. But how long can she be expected to wait?

Technically, Nolan is at the top of his game here. The threats are scary, the soundtrack is pulse-pounding (from what I’ve gleamed, this is many viewers’ favorite aspect of the movie), and the scenes on boats do a really good job of putting the viewer right in the middle of the action, which is a nice way of saying they made me seasick. He even provides some insight into Odysseus’s internal struggle that I’ve been told most versions of the story do not. So I’m recommending the movie, there are no worries there.

But while I am recommending “The Odyssey,” I can’t help but also relay some disappointment. Granted, there was an enormous amount of pressure on this film given the prominence of both the director and the source material, and any product assembled by a mere mortal – even Christopher Nolan – was bound to be disappointing on some level, but it’s not just that. Namely, did the movie have to be so long and meandering? Some will be quick to jump in and say yes, those qualities are synonymous with “The Odyssey” and it would be weird if Nolan’s version wasn’t like that. But I felt there were stretches – mostly toward the end when a plan by Odysseus needs

ENTERTAINMENT

to be put into action – that could have used some tightening. It’s as if Nolan couldn’t stand to have his film labeled as “efficient.”

The result is a film that I can’t label as anything but inefficient. I knew going into “The Odyssey”

that a certain inefficiency was to be expected, but I thought Nolan would be able to make me feel that the inefficiency was necessary.

Grade: B-

“The Odyssey” is rated R for violence and some language. Its running time is 172 minutes. Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@nyu.edu.

94th annual Anza Days parade winners

Homemade Hillbilly Regatta highlights Lake Riverside Estates summer barbecue

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

Lake Riverside Estates residents gathered at the lake on Sunday, July 5, for a summer barbecue hosted by the Lake Riverside Estates Activities Committee, enjoying an afternoon of food, music, games and friendly competition.

The highlight of the event was the Homemade Hillbilly Regatta, where participants launched creative homemade boats onto the lake in a lighthearted display of seamanship. Prizes and trophies were awarded to several participants, including the Thein family, which received the award for Best Boat with their colorful, electric drill-powered creation.

Another popular activity was the rubber duck hunt. Sutter Loomis claimed the top prize after locating an elephant-themed rubber duck hidden in the field across from the lake.

Community members contributed a huge amount of food for the celebration, creating a buffet that organizers estimated served about 250 people throughout the afternoon.

Members of the local fire department also attended the event, spending time with residents and enjoying the community gathering.

Resident Gem Ann Garner said the turnout on the lake was especially memorable.

“I think I counted at least 10 different boats on the lake all at once, which is the most that I’ve seen in a really long time. Three were homemade,” Garner said.

The festive gathering brought neighbors together for an afternoon of food, fellowship and summer fun, with the Hillbilly Regatta providing a memorable centerpiece to the community celebration.

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 field and lot to the west and

J.P. RAINERI, Sports Editor

DIANE SIEKER, Staff Writer

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ANZA EVENTS

east of the field. The market is operated by the High Country Conservancy, a 501(c)(3), and is a California certified farmers market. Market Manager Annika Knoppel can be reached at 951-234-1314 or email anzafarmersmarket@ gmail.com

Anza Community Hall Swap Meet –Every 1st and 3rd Saturday of the month. $15 for a spot with membership. $18 for a spot without membership. Vendors wanted. The hall is located at 56630 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. CalFresh application assistance and free community health services are also available. Bring your own reusable bags to take food home. Volunteers welcome. For more information, contact the AEC office at 951-763-4333.

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 951-760-9255.

Health, exercise, resources and recovery meetings

Fit after 50 – 10:30-11:30 a.m. Tuesday and Friday mornings at Anza Community Hall. Free. Wear comfortable clothes and supportive shoes. Call or text instructor Teresa Hoehn at 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-traumatic stress disorder and other difficulties. Call John Sheehan at 951-923-6153. If you need an advocate to help with VA benefits, call Ronnie Imel at 951-659-9884.

The Most Excellent Way – A Christ-centered recovery program for all kinds of addiction meets once a week on Fridays from 6-8 p.m. Program is court approved. The group meets at Valley Gospel Chapel, located at

43275 Chapman Road, Anza.

AA 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 CA371.

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, 951763-4759.

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 nonprofit. All in need are welcome; call Esther Barragan at 951763-5636.

Bible studies

Living Hope Thursday

Men’s Breakfast and Bible Study – 8 a.m. at 58050 CA371 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 first Saturday of the month, and breakfast is served. All are welcome to fellowship together at the “Tribal Hall” below the casino in Anza. For more information, call Nella Heredia at 951-763-0856.

Monthly Christian Men’s Breakfast – 9 a.m. Breakfast takes place the 4th Saturday of each month and rotates to different locations. Contact Jeff Crawley at 951-763-1257 for more information.

Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church – 10 a.m.

Weekly Wednesday Bible study takes place at 56095 Pena Road in Anza. Call 951-763-4226 for more information.

Valley Gospel Chapel – 7 a.m. Saturday Men’s Study meets weekly with breakfast usually served at 43275 Chapman Road in the Terwilliger area of Anza. For more information, call 951763-4622.

Anza 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 office 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 offering a variety of projects. High Country 4-H Club is open to children living in the Anza, Aguanga and surrounding areas. For more information, call Allison Renck at 951-663-5452.

Anza Valley Artists Meetings – Meetings at 1 p.m. are the third Saturday of each month at various locations.

Share art, ideas and participate in shows. Guest speakers are always needed. For more information, call president Rosie Grindle at 951-9281248. Find helpful art tips at www.facebook.com/AnzaValleyArtists.

Anza Quilter’s Club Meetings are held at 9:30 a.m. on the first Tuesday of each month at the Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 56095 Pena Road, Anza. For

more information see our Facebook page or contact Pat Sprint at jpsprint@gmail. com or Ellen Elmore at luvtoquilt2@gmail.com.

Anza Valley Lions Club –The Anza Valley Lions Club has been reinstated and is open to all men and women who want to work together for the betterment of the community. The group is working on securing a new venue for meetings. Meetings and events are posted on the Anza Lions Club of Anza Valley Facebook page at www.facebook.com/LionsofAnzaValley. For more information, email president Greg Sandling at President. AnzaLions@gmail.com or Chris Skinner at Secretary. AnzaLions@gmail.com.

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 CA371, Anza, CA 92539. The social hour is 11:30 a.m., and lunch is served at noon. Contact Carol Wright at 951-7632884 for more information.

Organizations

Terwilliger Community Association – 6 p.m. Second Monday of the month at VFW Post 1873, 59011 Bailey Road, in Anza. Potluck dinner open to all. For more information, call Tonie Ford at 951-763-4560.

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 951282-4267 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.

FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411 ET SEQ., BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE). I HEREBY CERTIFY THAT THIS COPY IS A CORRECT COPY OF THE ORIGINAL STATEMENT ON FILE IN MY OFFICE. PETER ALDANA RIVERSIDE COUNTY CLERK. LEGAL: 4770 PUBLISHED: July 10, 17, 24, 31, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File Number: R-202609276 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: MAD BATTER BAKERY 43755 Dale St, Anza, CA 92539 Mailing Address: 57475 Hwy 371, PMB 1085, Anza, CA 92539 County: Riverside Madeline Price, 43755 Dale St, Anza, CA 92539 This business is conducted by an Individual Registrant has not yet begun to transact business under the fictitious name(s) listed above.

(1,000). Registrant: Madeline Price Statement was filed with the County Clerk of Riverside County on 06/24/2026 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END

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 11

areas of Anza, Lake Riverside Estates, Cahuilla and Aguanga from July 11 through July 17. 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.

• Public disturbance–04:11 p.m., address undefined, Anza

• Assist other department–09:55 a.m., address undefined, Anza

July 12

• Trespassing–06:38 p.m., 5200 *** block Elder Creek Rd., Anza

• Emergency notification–04:13 p.m., address withheld, Anza

• Suspicious vehicle–02:21 p.m., address undefined, Anza

• 911 hangup from cellphone–09:56 a.m., 4300 *** block Sorensen Rd., Anza Assist other department–02:15 a.m., 6100 *** block Burnt Valley Rd., Anza

July 14

Danger to self/other–07:44 p.m., 4400 *** block Chapman Rd., Anza

Unlawful entry–06:55 p.m., address undefined, Anza Grand theft–11:17 a.m., 5100 *** block Springs Trl., Anza, report taken Burglary–08:54 a.m., 4200 *** block Lilac Ln., Anza, report taken Unlawful entry–05:14 a.m., address undefined, Anza Assist other department–12:27 a.m., 4100 *** block Gassner Rd., Anza

July 15 Public assist–11:06 p.m., 5300 *** block Benton Wy., Anza Vehicle theft–05:30 p.m., 5300 *** block Benton Wy., Anza, unfounded

• Trespassing–04:05 p.m., address undefined, Anza

• Shots fired–01:36 a.m., address undefined, Anza

July 16

• Public disturbance–04:10 p.m., 3700 *** block Lanik Ln., Anza

• Civil dispute–04:08 p.m., 3700 *** block Lanik Ln., Anza

• Assist other department–03:05 p.m., 5200 *** block Cary Rd./ Cahuilla Rd., Anza

July 17

• Assault w/ deadly weapon–06:33 p.m., 4400 *** block Bonny Ln., Anza, arrest made

• 911 hangup from cellphone–02:31 p.m., 3700 *** block Woodview Rd., Anza

• Assist other department–02:28 p.m., 4800 *** block Valley Dr., Anza

• Unknown trouble–01:18 p.m., 3700 *** block Woodview Rd., Anza

• Civil dispute–01:00 p.m., 3700 *** block Lanik Ln., Anza

• Suspicious person–11:49 a.m., 5700 *** block Mitchell Rd., Anza

Free nonprofit accounting workshop series to be held in Anza

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

Local nonprofit consultant

Annika Knöppel of Administrative Support Services will present a free four-week workshop series designed to help nonprofit organizations build strong financial management practices.

Four workshops will be held Mondays beginning at 11:30 a.m. until about 12:30 p.m., Aug. 3 through Aug. 24, at the Anza Electric Cooperative offices. The series is intended for nonprofit board members, executive directors, treasurers, volunteers, and anyone responsible for nonprofit finances.

“We’re grateful to the Anza Electric Cooperative for generously providing meeting space for this educational series,” said Knöppel. “Since these workshops are during the lunch hour,

bring a brown bag lunch and we will eat while we learn.”

Workshop topics include:

Week 1 – Foundations of

Nonprofit

Accounting–Understanding the nonprofit Chart of Accounts

Building a financial system that supports the mission

Week 2 – Tracking What Matters

Recording volunteer hours

Accounting for in-kind gifts

Properly tracking donations and contributions

Week 3 – Understanding

Financial Statements

How to read nonprofit financial reports

• Which financial statements should be presented to the board each month

• Using financial information to support better decision-making

Week 4 – Essential Tracking for Nonprofits

• Three critical items every nonprofit is required to track • Using QuickBooks or BrassJacks features to monitor programs, grants and restricted funds

Best practices for accurate reporting and compliance

“Whether you’re starting a new nonprofit or looking to strengthen your organization’s financial management, this workshop series offers practical guidance and real-world tools that can be put to use immediately,” said Knöppel.

For additional information or to reserve a seat, please contact Annika Knöppel at Administrative Support Services, assist@ 501c3assist.com or by calling (951)234-1314.

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