Valley News, June 19, 2026

US Attorney on Prosecuting Election Fraud in California

Investigations into suspected election fraud in California are underway, ‘and I do expect those will result in charges,’ Bill Essayli

By Travis Gillmore, Brad Jones, Beige LucianoAdams The Epoch Times

Ahead of the 2026 midterms, investigations into suspected election fraud in California are underway, said Bill Essayli, first assistant U.S. attorney for the Central District of California.

“And I do expect those will result in charges,” Essayli told The Epoch Times on June 9. He did not elaborate, as Justice Department regulations prohibit discussing details on open cases.

“We are going to follow the evidence wherever it goes,” Essayli said.

With political tensions flaring during the recent primary elections, he cautioned that fraud is difficult to detect and challenging to prove.

“There’s a lot of confusion out there, and there are a lot of people who have a lot of theories on election fraud, but theories are not evidence,” Essayli said. “We require evidence.”

He said part of the issue is the state’s mail-in ballot system, in which every registered voter receives a ballot.

“The problem in California is they have the universal vote by mail, so they mail out millions of ballots, and they allow them to be returned as late as seven days after the election,” Essayli said.

“So it’s very hard to understand on election night exactly how many ballots have been cast and how many are left to count, and that just breeds a ton of distrust and skepticism into the system—

see ELECTION page A-2

Graduation 2026

See our lists of local graduates in our special Graduation sections, B and D

School program, who balanced their high school requirements while

Hemet Juventus FC wins boys 14-15 Sun Division at The Beach Soccer Championships

Joe Naiman for the Valley News

An Oceanside tournament, The Beach Soccer Championships, is one of the two largest sand soccer festivals in the world and marks the start of the summer soccer season. This year, Hemet Juventus FC won the Boys under 14-15 Sun Division championship.

“All the kids deserved it based on all the hard work they put in,” said Hemet Juventus FC cocoach Bryan De La Cruz. “It’s just a testament to their hard work and dedication.”

The Beach Soccer Championships took place May 29-31 at Harbor Beach. Hemet Juventus FC, LIFEthruSOCCER O’Side FC, LIFEthruSOCCER Love Boat Beach SC, and LIFEthruSOCCER Sealions FC comprised the Boys under 14-15 Sun division teams.

Hemet Juventus FC began play on May 30 with a 4-1 victory against LIFEthruSOCCER Sealions FC and also had a May 30 win over LIFEthruSOCCER O’Side FC in a game with a 3-1 score. The May 31 game between Hemet Juventus FC and LIFEthruSOCCER Love Boat Beach SC ended as a 3-3 draw.

The 2-0-1 record gave Hemet Juventus FC first place in the pool. LIFEthruSOCCER O’Side FC had defeated both LIFEthruSOCCER Love Boat Beach SC and LIFEthruSOCCER Sealions FC – by a combined 13-3 margin – and finished pool play second.

The pool results gave Hemet Juventus FC a May 31 championship game against LIFEthruSOCCER O’Side FC. A 2-0 victory gave Hemet Juventus FC the division championship.

The Hemet Juventus FC team celebrates their Beach Soccer Championship. The team won the Boys under 1415 Sun Division. Valley

“Both offense and defense were great,” De La Cruz said. “They just played their hearts out.”

Hemet Juventus FC had 16 players for the tournament. Five players from each team, including the goalkeepers, are on the field at one time.

De La Cruz and his broth-

er, Jovanny, have coached the players since September 2024.

“We had never played at a competitive level,” De La Cruz said.

“Last year we went to the same tournament and ended up in the semifinals.”

The format this year advanced the top two teams in the pool directly to the finals. “The boys

were a lot more determined,” De La Cruz said.

De La Cruz expressed his appreciation to the players’ families for their support. “We’re going to continue, hopefully,” he said. The club’s next tournament will be in September. “We’re getting ready to start,” De La Cruz said.

ELECTION from page A-1

whether or not fraud exists.”

Essayli has prioritized election fraud investigations after being appointed interim U.S. attorney in April 2025 by thenU.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi.

He leads one of the largest federal prosecutors’ offices nationwide, covering seven Southern California counties with a combined population of approximately 20 million. His office includes a team of approximately 500 attorneys and staff.

Voter fraud investigations have yielded one guilty plea so far, after Brenda Lee Brown Armstrong, 64, of Marina del Rey, California, was caught paying homeless individuals in Los Angeles to register to vote under fake addresses. According to the plea agreement, she worked as a petition circulator for approximately 20 years.

“False registrations undermine Americans’ faith in elections, even more so when payoffs are involved,” Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon, head of the Justice Department’s civil rights division, said in a May statement.

Essayli’s office launched a new tip line on June 7, requesting information from the public.

“Any ... evidence of election fraud crimes, whether it’s in the registrations to vote, or if it’s in the voting itself, or anything related to elections, people can submit information to that tip line,” Essayli said.

More than 538,000 ballots, many of which were received by mail, remain unprocessed as of June 11, according to the California Secretary of State’s website.

Critics of the process raised questions after Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton’s early lead evaporated as more ballots were counted, and Los Angeles mayoral candidate Spencer Pratt was eliminated from the race after Nithya Raman carried more of the late-arriving votes.

President Donald Trump has repeatedly questioned California’s slow ballot-counting

process, describing the situation as suspicious and calling the state a “third-world nation” with “rigged elections” in various Truth Social posts.

State election officials described the lengthy process as routine, with delays due to signature verification.

Voter Rolls

Essayli criticized California policies that he said allow illegal immigrants to register to vote in federal elections.

“They will accept all kinds of documents that they claim are sufficient ID to comply with federal statute, including ... a gym membership card, debit card, prescription label, health insurance card, and they give out health insurance cards to illegals,” Essayli said.

“So you can just see that there really is nothing in place that would stop someone who’s not a citizen from registering to vote in the state of California.”

He pointed to a state Department of Motor Vehicles audit as evidence that a thorough audit of state records is needed. The state audit, conducted by Ernst & Young, reviewed the 2018 integration of an automatic voter registration system, which revealed that some noncitizens were improperly registered to vote.

The Department of Justice is currently at legal odds with the state over the release of voter rolls for audits to verify authenticity and citizenship after Dhillon launched efforts to obtain voter rolls across the country.

Essayli said that the department has been in litigation with California “for the past year or so to try to get them to comply with various federal statutes that permit us to inspect their voter rolls.”

“They’re supposed to provide them at the request of the attorney general, so we can audit their voter rolls to make sure they’re complying with some federal civil rights statutes and making sure that only legal, qualified U.S. citizens are registered to vote,” he said.

State officials are “stonewalling” attempts to review records,

Essayli said.

“California has refused to comply,” he said. “We’re in court. They are making what we consider frivolous arguments.”

California Secretary of State Shirley Weber has argued that the Justice Department’s demands are unlawful and “[threaten] to give the federal government unprecedented access to California voters’ sensitive and private information, including Social Security and driver’s license numbers, partisan affiliation, home addresses

and voting history.”

She said shielding the data was necessary to prevent the federal government from using the information to enforce immigration laws and challenge eligible voter registrations.

“I am entrusted with ensuring that California’s state election laws are enforced—including state laws that protect the privacy of Californians’ data,” Weber said in a statement. “I will continue to uphold my promise to Californians to protect our democracy, and I will continue to

challenge this administration’s disregard for the rule of law and our right to vote.”

Lower courts sided with the state’s argument about privacy concerns, and the case is currently on appeal at the Ninth Circuit Court.

“They could rule on that literally any day,” Essayli said.

Reprinted with permission from The Epoch Times. Copyright 2026 The Epoch Times. To subscribe, go to Subscribe. theEpochTimes.com.

Children celebrate parents at Soboba

Students at the Soboba Tribal Preschool treated their parents to special days last month. Mother’s Day was celebrated on May 8 with a tea party themed event. Fathers got to join their little ones for a BBQ themed luncheon on May 22. Father’s Day is on June 21 this year, but the students will not be in school, so they observed the occasion early. Mothers and other female relatives were treated to finger sandwiches and sweet pastries to go with their iced tea. They joined their children in decorating pretty hats, using a paper plate as the base with colorful markers, ribbons and sequins added as

desired. They also used a fabric flower making machine to craft the perfect blend of their favorite petal colors and lots of leaves for a keepsake flower.

One wall poster created by the preschool class had students answer what they love most about their moms. Orion MacDonald said, “I love my mom because she plays with me and reads books to me.” Daiya Muhammad said, “I love that my mom is beautiful and she loves me.” Another poster was titled “Mommy’s favorite cup of tea” and featured photos of the children on the teacups.

Pre-K students were asked to complete the sentence “I love my mom because…” The poster featured a huge heart in the center decorated with pink handprints of

each student. Paulina Aguirre said she loves her mom because she is always happy, Mavii Ortega said it’s because she’s nice, and Neqpikat Arroyo-Modesto said it is because, “I’m growing up.” Kindergartners got to design and color teacups that were attached to a poster letting their mothers know they are one “tea-rific” mom. There were handmade projects the children did in their classrooms put into gift bags for their mothers to enjoy.

Fathers and father figures got their special day two weeks later seated at long tables covered with red checkered tablecloths. Some of their gifts were in bags designed to look like traditional ribbon shirts. Others had grill master

apron shaped cards attached.

Gifts included a can coozie and a cutting board, both decorated with their child’s handprints on them. A fun craft they got to do together was to design a Shrinky Dink keychain.

Posters around the multipurpose room walls showed expressions of love from the children for the men in their lives. Pre-K students were asked to complete the sentence “I grill-y love my dad because…” and the heartfelt answers were written in the “smoke” that came from the grill. Ellie Calderon said, “He always lets me help him” and Natalia Girard said, “He goes to work.”

When students in the preschool class were asked what they loved about their dads, ‘Eshash Shuul-

law said, “I love my dad because he calls me pretty all the time, every day” and Talla Grant said, “I love my dad because he’s so special and he always helps me get ready for somebody’s practice.”

Kindergarten students got to share their favorite thing about their fathers, and their comments were very sincere. Marcie Brane likes that her dad is strong and helps her, Kut Vega-Castello said he likes that his dad helps him learn new things, and Nu$uun Valdez said, “My favorite thing is he makes me cereal.” The youngsters also got to assemble construction paper hamburgers and hot dogs that were displayed

Crossword Puzzle answers on page D-7

Declaration Of

19. *Unalienable ones in the Declaration of Independence 21. *Colony that originally abstained from voting on independence

Baba of “One Thousand and One Nights”

Parsley or basil, e.g.

Mountain peak

*Four Declaration signers were alums of this CT Ivy Leaguer 30. Most mature, as in fruit

It must go on?

Small brook 39. *”...to assume among the powers of the ____”

Not divisible by two

Like certain people’s glasses 55. Australia’s flightless bird

57. *First Declaration of Independence signer 61. *Self-evident ones 64. Not a minor 65. “____ it or lose it!” 67. Songs for two 69. Formally surrenders land

70. *Last name of the only brothers to both sign the Declaration

Last Supper cup

“If you only ____!”

Item in diary

*____ men are created equal

Talk like a drunk

Fare ride 4. Opposite of alpha

5. In a foolhardy manner 6. Jar covers 7. Long, long time 8. Stupid or silly 9. Risque 10. Puerto ____ 11. ____ and anon 12. 168 hours 15. Rookie 20. Beauty pageant winner’s headgear

22. Make a blunder

24. Serfdom, archaically speaking 25. Indian black tea

26. Capital of Tibet

27. One’s entourage

29. *Liberty’s partner

31. Permission to leave 32. Muse of love poetry

33. Nickname for a certain violin

34. *Certain George, with The

36. *”____ in the course of human events...”

38. Like TV’s famous ranger

42. Candle shape

45. Fortune teller’s deck, pl.

49. Who is Bugs Bunny talking to?

51. Blemish

54. Cranial bones + facial bones

56. Driver’s 180 57. Bypass firewall, illegally 58. Yemeni port

59. Classic art subject

60. Ball of yarn

61. Started during the Ryder Cup, e.g.

62. Miami basketballer

63. Cookbook direction

66. Shining one in “America the Beautiful”

68. Sylvester Stallone’s nickname

Temecula Sunrise Rotary Again Presents Safety Town

Safety Town, sponsored by the Temecula Sunrise Rotary Club, will be held this year at Temecula Luiseno Elementary School in Temecula. This is the 22nd year this popular program has been offered in the Temecula Valley. A nationally recognized program that began in Mansfield, OH, in 1937, it is a safe and interesting learning environment that is set up as a little town with buildings, pedal cars and street lights, simulating an actual town. Classes will be held from Monday through Friday, June 15 to 19, or June 22 to 26, from 9 to 11:30 am.

Safety Town is a five-day interactive program designed to introduce and teach 5-to-8-yearold children various aspects of safety. The curriculum focuses on lessons about life safety. In conjunction with the Temecula Police and Fire Departments and other qualified teachers, the children are taught about safety principles and then placed in staged situations involving stranger safety, street safety, fire safety, bike safety and water safety. Other safety topics will be poison and drug prevention, emergency 9-1-1, animal and gun safety, electrical safety, and disaster preparedness.

“Of all the projects Temecula Sunrise Rotary has for the youth in our community, Safety Town is easily the most important and the most rewarding,” says Temecula Sunrise Rotary President Dora Guereca. “We sponsored middle school and high school students to Rotary leadership camps this year, we are giving thousands of dollars in scholarships to local graduating seniors, and we have prize-winning Rotary Music Competition winners, just to name a few ways we support our local youth. But our club is most proud of our many years of presenting Safety Town. This year’s event definitely is going to be the best yet. Since the registration fees do not begin to cover costs, it is our club’s contribution to the community to help make our children safe.”

The price is only $50 per child, $45 for each sibling, and no child will be turned away. Early registration is recommended, as the classes are already filling up. To receive a flyer and registration form, please call Registrar Dora Guereca at 951-595-6300. More information is also available on the club’s Facebook page. Submitted by Temecula Sunrise Rotary.

Supervisors authorize funding for Pauba Road improvements

Joe Naiman for the Valley News

The Riverside County Board of Supervisors authorized $2,000,000 of Community Revitalization Fund revenue for improvements to Pauba Road.

The supervisors’ 5-0 vote on June 2 authorized the use of $2,000,000 from the CRF Wine Country Infrastructure fund for the improvements. The work will include reconstruction, minor widening, and vertical and horizontal realignment to improve the safety and efficiency of vehicular

traffic on Pauba Road from Via Del Monte to Calle Contento.

The Temecula Valley Wine Country Community Plan was created in 2014 and amended the county’s general plan, updated design guidelines, and created new zoning classifications. The county supervisors also established the Wine Country Infrastructure Fund, which levies fees on developers that will be used to build infrastructure, including roundabouts, critical network roads, and sewer facilities, while also providing signage consistent with the approved plan.

Supervisors approve vegetation management funding agreement with Anza Electric Cooperative

Anza Electric Cooperative is in the Third District.

The Riverside County Board of Supervisors approved a funding agreement for the Anza Electric Cooperative to use $160,000 of the county’s Unincorporated Communities Initiative funding.

The supervisors’ 5-0 vote on June 2 approved the funding agreement. The money will assist the Anza Electric Cooperative in fuel reduction activities such as tree trimming, tree removal, and vegetation removal along approximately a 10-mile portion of their electric power line system.

A November 2020 Board of Supervisors action created the Unincorporated Communities Initiative to improve the infrastructure and services provided to residents of unincorporated communities with an emphasis on disadvantaged unincorporated communities. The program is funded through the Unincorporated Communities Fund which is allocated during the annual budget process. The county’s 2025-26 budget, approved June 24 included $12,500,000 for the Unincorporated Communities Fund divided evenly between the five Supervisorial Districts.

Anza Electric Cooperative, Inc., was formed in 1950 to bring electricity to the community, and the entity’s bylaws have been changed to allow for the provision of other community services including a monthly food distribution to low-income residents living in Anza. The cooperative’s service area includes approximately 700 acres of mountainous rural terrain where native vegetation can create a fire hazard in conjunction with power lines. The Anza Fuel Reduction and Tree Trimming Public Safety Improvement Project consists of local area fuel reduction and tree trimming near circuit lines to reduce fire hazards.

A December 16 Board of Supervisors action approved the allocation of the $160,000 to the Anza Electric Cooperative but did not approve a funding agreement. The agreement approved June 2 establishes the terms and conditions governing the use of funds by both the county and the cooperative. The fuel reduction and tree trimming activities have an estimated completion date of June 30.

Planning Commission hearing on proposed Campus Park modification continued to July 10

Joe Naiman Village News Reporter

The county’s Planning Commission will be holding a July 10 hearing on a proposed modification to the planned Campus Park development.

The hearing was initially scheduled for June 12, but a 4-0 Planning Commission vote with three absent members that day continued the hearing. The continuance was requested by Passerelle representative Chris Brown so that Passerelle representatives can work with stakeholders about recent concerns which have been addressed.

“We felt like it would give us some time,” Brown said. “We just want to be good stewards and good neighbors and reach out.”

The San Diego County Board of Supervisors approved the 416acre Campus Park project in May 2011. The approval included 751 residential units consisting of 521 single-family and 230 multi-family dwellings. Passerelle, LLC, subsequently sold the residential

component to D.R. Horton, and that development is now called Horse Creek Ridge.

The county’s Park Land Dedication Ordinance provides for fees from developers to fund park improvements in the community of the development. Developers can also provide park land instead of paying PLDO fees. Horse Creek Ridge includes an 8.4-acre public sports park and a 1.8-acre staging area, and in August 2019 the Board of Supervisors accepted the donation of that land to the county. The map also includes six neighborhood parks and a community center, which were not transferred to the county.

The Campus Park specific plan currently designates 157,000 square feet of Office Professional space. Passerelle has proposed converting that to 138 single-family residences.

The Campus Park map also designates a town center with 61,200 square feet of retail commercial area. The plans do not call for any retail space to be converted.

The preschool class sings songs about how much they love their

during a special day at the multipurpose room.

PARENTS from page A-3

around a colorful poster that claimed, “You are a grill-y awesome dad.”

The lunch featured grilled chicken, ribs, and hot dogs with sides of corn on the cob, baked beans and potato chips, all followed by a sundae bar. Many of the men were happy to share that they love to barbecue at home. So kudos went to the kitchen staff who prepared the food that met with the approval of the experienced guests.

Keith Escalante said grilling is something he enjoys doing.

“You can’t just put the meat on the heat and expect it to turn out good; there’s an art to it,” he said. He was enjoying hanging out

with his grandson, kindergartner Kyler Escalante. “We’re having a good time.”

Junior Medina’s five-year-old son Kavikvish is in the Pre-K class and he thought the event was very nice. “I like spending time with my son and talking with everyone else,” he said. “It’s nice to see the kids with all their friends.”

Both events featured performances by the kids who learned special songs about how much they loved their moms and dads. There were also raffles for lucky ticket holders and coloring pages for the families to enjoy together.

For more information on the preschool, please visit https:// preschool.soboba-nsn.gov.

“Some of the people are thinking we’re trying to do something we’re not,” Brown said.

A county land use permit only authorizes a type of use and is not associated with a specific business. The commercial activity both for the Campus Park development and for the separate Pala Ranch (formerly Campus Park West) project which calls for 513,000 square feet of commercial use and 120,000 square feet of industrial space along with 283 homes on land owned by Pappas Investments will likely occur after enough residential units in the area are built to support stores and other commercial entities.

“The residential helps the commercial,” Brown said.

The 138 units would be within an 11.96-acre area. “It’s an infill project. It matches the density that’s out there now,” Brown said.

The Planning Commission and subsequent Board of Supervisors action would also approve an addendum to the project’s Environmental Impact Report, which

includes new traffic and noise studies. The estimated average daily traffic volume for the Office Professional usage is 2,669 average daily trips. The anticipated average daily volume for 138 residential units would be 1,289 trips. In addition to a two-car garage for each unit 65 additional parking spaces would allow parking for up to 341 vehicles in the modified area.

The houses would have four different plan types ranging from 2,282 to 2,618 square feet not including garage space. Each garage would be at least 400 square feet. The homes would utilize three architectural styles: Spanish, Cottage, and Craftsman.

The homes would be accessed from residential driveways connecting to Friesian Way, Horse Ranch Creek Road, and Messara Street. Horse Ranch Creek Road would be widened from Friesian Way to Gold Palomino Road; widening would also occur along the frontage of Horse Creek Ridge County Park, and transition im-

provements where Horse Ranch Creek Road becomes Pankey Road would be constructed to match the existing roadway configuration.

In May 2025, the Fallbrook Community Planning Group voted 12-3 to recommend approval of the proposed modifications. The Interstate 15 Corridor Design Review Board only addresses aesthetics and does not address issues such as traffic or environmental impacts, and in October 2025, that board voted 4-0 to recommend approval.

Because a General Plan Amendment and a Specific Plan Amendment are involved the Planning Commission’s recommendation must be ratified by the Board of Supervisors, who may make modifications including conditions. The action would also include a revised tentative map and a modification to the site plan.

“We feel pretty confident the Planning Commission will support this, but we want to be good neighbors,” Brown said.

Murrieta Mesa High School •

CONGRATULATIONS SJUSD

Class of 2026

Susan H. Nelson High School

Rancho Vista High School • Temecula

Adhikari, Aryan Amador, Seth Amanonce, Gena Angulo, Sofia Araiza, Jaxson Arnold-Turner, Samuel Arrezola, Isaiah Baltazar-Martinez, David Barraza Baez, Adriel Bazaldua, Joseph Bell, Tristan Benn, Olonzo Black, Van Seth Boucher Bowden, Eric Bravo Ortiz, Shirley Bridger, Katya Cabrera, True Cardenas, Cosette Casson, Julian Chaidez, Grecia Chase, Max Conti, Danilo Cortez Chavez, Jaquelyn Cota, Faith Crowder, Nikoe Davis, Traves de Armas, Gloria De La Cruz, Jose Di Cintio, Nina Fennell, Timothy Fregoso, Myla Galvan, Nicolas Garcia, Analiya Garcia De La Torre, Mateo Ghosh Christopher Gilles, David Gonzalez, Uriel Granados, Steven Grzelakowski, Jan Haberstroh, Joshua Harris, Jazeel Hart, Keniya Hawk, Savhanna Hays, Addison Hernandez, Marc Hernandez Hernandez, Juan Hill, Ava Hipolito, Xarles Kelly Hori, Devon Jaan, Daniel Jimenez Juan, Andres Johnson, Amyah Joya, Paul Karpenko, Stanislav Keomany, Kayla King, Camerron Lawler, Naomi LeMaster, Nicholas Limon Vega, Ethan Daniel Lopez, Angel Luly, Hayden Luna, Lilly Lyon, Caitlin Marquez, Isaiah Marquez, Joseph Marquez, Kai Marroquin, Issac Martinez Lopez, Benny Mateo, Anne Maru

Mateo, Reeyo Mayns, Cali McCoy, Jakob McNeil, Aiden Merida Figueroa, Tony Meza Covarrubias, Jose David Miles, Noah Moore, Oliver Moreno-Ortiz, Alyssa Murray, Parker Neilson, Tyler Page, Jordan Palacios Amaya, Ernesto Pedral Chinchilla, Rodrigo Perez, Jake Poghosyan, Arsen Ramirez, Joseph Ramirez Alavez, Jared Reylek, Capri Robles, Daisy Rodriguez, Isaiah Rud, Luke Ruelas, Oliviah Sanchez, Christian Sawyer, Caden Sindwele, Hope Solano, Marcos Stackpole, Joey Starr, Thomas Suitt, Amariah

Chaparral High School • Temecula

Class of 2026

Great Oak High School • Temecula

Noli Indian School graduates and their Tribal affiliations are

Edgar Gladin, Oglala Sioux

Serena Hawk, Santa Ysabel

Selaya Helms, Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians

Francisco Lemus, Oglala Sioux

Ronald Morillo, Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians

Leland Razon, Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians

Salutatorian Sophia Resvaloso, Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians

Valedictorian Shawna Rivera, Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians

Vista Murrieta High School • Murrieta

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94th annual Anza Days celebration kicks off June 26 with parade, dance and family fun

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

Excitement is building across the Anza Valley as residents prepare to celebrate the 94th annual Anza Days festivities. The beloved community tradition returns Friday, June 26, and Saturday, June 27, bringing together neighbors, families and visitors for a weekend filled with entertainment, laughter and hometown pride. For generations, Anza Days has served as a showcase of the community’s spirit, featuring cherished traditions made possible through the dedication of local organizations and countless volunteers.

The Miss Anza pageant will take place Saturday, June 24, in Minor Park beginning at 6 p.m.. The event committee is still accepting applicants for the popular contest, held every year the week before Anza Days. More information is available by calling Lorraine’s Pet

Supply at (951)763-0033. The Miss Anza Days contest is open to all girls from newborn to adult, divided into six divisions.

Friday, June 26, starting at 5 p.m., the Anza Community Hall will be hosting the traditional Anza Days kickoff dinner and dance. A sit-down BBQ meal will be served until 6:30 p.m.. Prices are $8 for Community Hall members, $12 for non-members, and $5 for children 12 and younger. Dinner-only is $6 for Hall members and $9 for non-members. Dance-only adult entry is $5, with youngsters 12 and under free. An old-time country hoedown will feature Mark Huston N’ the Workin Men playing their country and rock favorites from 6 p. m. until 9 p. m.. Tickets may be purchased at the door. Always the subject of rave reviews, the event is one of the highlights of the weekend.

see DAYS, page C-6

Crowns, talent and hometown pride: Miss Anza ExtravagAnza set for June 24

Diane

Sieker Staff Writer

The Miss Anza ExtravagAnza pageant will be held Wednesday, June 24 at Minor Park in downtown Anza beginning at 6 p.m.. Sign-ups will start at 5:00.

This year’s theme is Boots On The Ground, The Cowgirl Way. Participants are encouraged to dress up in their best boots and patriotic outfits and show off a talent, interest or hobby. The Hamilton High School cheer squad will be in attendance to perform several complex routines.

Entry forms for the event are available at Lorraine’s Pet Supply in Anza.

The Miss Anza Days pageant attracted a record number of lovely and talented contestants last year, according to organizer Lorraine Elmore.

The pageant - open to all girls from newborn to adult - is an important tradition preceding the

Ride

Diane Sieker Staff Writer

Members of the Back Country Horsemen of America Redshank Riders hosted Ride at the Museum Sunday, June 14, bringing together equestrians, wagoners and their equine companions for a scenic morning trek through the Anza countryside.

The fun-filled event began at Hamilton Museum, where participants departed at 9:30 a.m. aboard horses, mules and in wagons pulled by teams of mules. The group traveled along a picturesque route before returning shortly after noon.

Riders of all ages were welcomed to participate, creating an enjoyable outing for both experienced and newer equestrians. Horses and mules handled the trail well as participants shared the experience together.

“It was wonderful,” said Greg Bruce, an accomplished horseman. “The breeze kept us cool

annual Anza Days Fourth of July celebrations.

Age group divisions are as follows:

• Wee Miss Anza Days: Ages 3 years old and under

• Lil’ Miss Anza Days: Ages 4 - 7 years old

• Junior Miss Anza Days: Ages 8 - 12 years old

• Teen Miss Anza Days: Ages 13 - 18 years old

• Miss Anza Days: Ages 19 - 25 years old

• Ms. Anza Days: Ages 26 and over

Winners receive special sashes, tiaras and prizes and will be featured during Anza Days celebrations the following weekend.

For more information, please contact Lorraine Elmore at (951)763-0033 or Tabitha Dawes at (714)588-5291. Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia.com.

SHERIFF'S BLOTTER

The Sheriff’s Blotter enables residents to know what criminal activity is occurring in their communities. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo

Diane Sieker

Staff Writer

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

The Sheriff’s Blotter data is obtained from the official calls for service records kept by the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department. However, calls where the release of the information could cause harm to an individual or jeopardize the investigation of a criminal case are excluded. All calls listed are for service within the Sheriff’s Department jurisdiction in the unincorporated areas of Anza, Lake Riverside Estates, Cahuilla and Aguanga from June 6 through June 12.

June 6

Noise complaint - 10:49 p.m., address undefined, Anza

Shots fired - 08:31 p.m., address undefined, Anza

Man down - 07:43 p.m., address undefined, Anza

Battery - 07:07 p.m., address undefined, Anza

Alarm call - 03:22 p.m., 3900 *** block Contreras Rd., Anza

Hazard - 01:02 p.m., 5700 *** block St. Hwy. 371, Anza

Suspected DUI - 11:26 a.m., 5600 *** block St. Hwy. 371, Anza, report taken

Vehicle theft - 08:53 a.m., 4900 *** block Sky Harbor Wy., Lake Riverside, report taken

June 7

Trespassing - 04:44 p.m., 3700 *** block Lanik Ln., Anza, report taken

Shots fired - 02:07 a.m., address undefined, Anza

Suspicious person - 12:07 a.m., 5300 *** block St. Hwy. 371, Anza

June 8

Attempted warrant service - 02:19 p.m., address withheld, Anza, warrant

Vehicle theft - 01:51 p.m., address undefined, Anza, unfounded

Civil dispute - 12:35 p.m., 3800 *** block Howard Rd., Anza, report taken

June 9

Assist other department - 05:23 p.m., 5900 *** block Ramsey Rd., Anza

Suspicious circumstance - 11:16 a.m., 4800 *** block St. Hwy. 371, Anza, report taken

Alarm call - 10:42 a.m., 3900 *** block Contreras Rd., Anza

Area check - 03:27 a.m., address undefined, Anza

Danger to self/other - 03:09 a.m., 4200 *** block Lilac Ln., Anza, report taken

June 10

Assist other department - 09:13 p.m., 4400 *** block Anderson Ln., Anza

Burglary - 07:00 p.m., 3800 *** block Boulton Rd., Anza, report taken

Trespassing - 03:21 p.m., 5900 *** block Grandon Rd., Anza

Civil dispute - 03:17 p.m., 5300 *** block St. Hwy. 371, Anza

Assist other department - 02:10 p.m., 3800 *** block Howard Rd., Anza

Public disturbance - 12:45 p.m., 4100 *** block Terwilliger Rd., Anza

Harassing phone calls - 11:50 a.m., address withheld, Anza

Assist other department - 12:52 a.m., 5700 *** block Mitchell Rd., Anza

June 11

Civil dispute - 06:17 p.m., 4400 *** block Anderson Ln., Anza

Trespassing - 01:20 p.m., 5900 *** block Grandon Rd., Anza

Trespassing - 12:14 p.m., 4300 *** block Cowboy Country Rd., Anza

Public assist - 08:27 a.m., 4200 *** block Labrinia Ln., Anza

Alarm call - 05:46 a.m., 5600 *** block St. Hwy. 371, Anza

June 12

Noise complaint - 10:20 p.m., 5200 *** block Cahuilla Rd., Cahuilla Noise complaint - 09:16 p.m., 3700 *** block Bautista Canyon Rd., Anza

Harassing phone calls - 09:00 p.m., address withheld, Anza

Vicious dog - 07:48 p.m., 4100 *** block Terwilliger Rd., Anza

Suspicious person - 11:33 a.m., 3900 *** block Rolling Hills Rd., Anza

Assist other department - 08:00 a.m., 4100 *** block Jay Dee Ln., Anza

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

MUSEUM from page C-1 and the horses and mules did great.”

Following the ride, lunch and beverages were provided for participants, while the horses and mules relaxed unsaddled and unharnessed.

“We hope to make this an annual event,” said club member Stacy Kuhns.

Organizers requested a $10 Hamilton Museum membership from participants, with additional donations welcomed to support the museum.

The event combined outdoor recreation, local history and community fellowship, offering riders a memorable day on the dusty trail.

The Redshank Riders are a unit of the Back Country Horsemen of America, a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serving 194 local and state chapters across the country. BCHA chapters are active in 31 states and consist of about 13,000 members who are dedicated to keeping trails open for equestrians, hikers, cyclists and others on public lands. These groups work with trail partners and land management agencies to clear and maintain trails all over the United States.

The Redshank Riders can be reached by visiting http://www. redshankriders.com for more information.

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

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.

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 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

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ANZA EVENTS

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 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 951-763-1350 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 951751-1462 for more information.

Veterans’ Gathering Mondays – 9-11 a.m. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 39075 Contreras Road in Anza. Men and women veterans come to share and help each other deal with 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 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 nonprofit. 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

Upcoming July Election for Anza Electric Board of Directors

Anza Electric Cooperative, Inc. is governed by seven directors representing the three districts of the cooperative’s service area for both electric and internet services. Three seats on the Anza Electric Cooperative board of directors will be open for election this July, each for a three-year term. The following individuals are running for the three open seats.

DISTRICT I Douglas E. Hay DISTRICT 2 Hope Adams DISTRICT 3 Stephan Lauzier Tabitha Dawes-Vollmer

Since only one petition was received for District I, candidate Douglas E. Hay, is declared elected per AEC bylaws. One petition was received for District 2; candidate Hope Adams is declared elected by AEC bylaws. Election material will be sent to members arriving via mail and email in the upcoming weeks. Voting opens June 17, 2026, and closes July 18, 2026. An independent election processor will handle the election and the election results will be announced at the Annual Membership Meeting on Saturday, July 25, 2026. Annual meeting information, candidate resumes and the Annual Report will be

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 951-928-1248. Find helpful art tips at www.facebook.com/AnzaValleyArtists.

Anza Quilter’s Club – Meetings are held at 9:30 a.m. on the first Tuesday of each month at the Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran

Church, 56095 Pena Road, Anza. For more information see our Facebook page or contact Pat Sprint at jpsprint@gmail.com or Ellen Elmore at luvtoquilt2@ gmail.com.

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

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 951-7635611 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 951-7632884 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 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.

Is Your Baby’s Food Full of Microplastics?

A new investigation has found microplastics in baby food pouches sold by some of the world’s biggest brands — including one labeled organic — raising questions about a packaging format that has overtaken baby food aisles.

Research commissioned by Greenpeace International tested two leading baby food products and estimated thousands of microplastics in each pouch tested, ranging from more than 5,000 in one brand to over 11,00 in the other.

“Parents trust these brands to ensure their babies’ first bites of food are not contaminated with microplastics. Unfortunately, this research shows that even the

DAYS from page C-1

Saturday, June 27, from 7:30 a.m.

until 10:30 a.m., the Anza Thimble Club ladies will be serving their legendary pancake breakfast at the Anza Community Hall, featuring pancakes with scrambled eggs, sausage links, coffee, and orange juice. Adult tickets are $8.00, and children under 12 years old are $5.00. The charity breakfast is a great start to the day’s activities and the delightful ladies know how to prepare a wonderful meal. All proceeds collected are dispersed to local charities in need throughout the year.

Floats, equestrian groups, vintage cars, 4x4 clubs and more will line up along Bahrman Rd. in preparation for the parade. Float registration will be from 7 a.m. until 9 a.m., with judging taking place at 9:30 a.m.. State Highway 371 will be closed to traffic at 10:30 a.m. and the parade will begin at 11 a.m.

This year’s theme is Celebrating Our Military Branches.

The parade will travel along St. Hwy. 371 between Bahrman and Contreras Roads, through the heart of Anza. Parking is encouraged off the highway in the open fields and parking lots, to keep the side of the road open for spectators. Sunscreen and plenty of drinking water is

most trusted brands can’t guarantee that,” said Sybil Bullock, a senior campaigner at Greenpeace USA.

The findings, detailed in a new report titled “Tiny Plastics, Big Problem: The Hidden Risks of Baby Food Plastic Pouches,” point to polyethylene, the plastic that lines the pouches, as a likely source of the microplastics. Researchers also detected a range of chemicals present in both the packaging and the food, including a known harmful endocrine-disrupting chemical in one yogurt product.

This study is among the first attempts to assess the presence of microplastics and plastic chemicals that could be released

advised. Some families stake out their parade-viewing spots the night before the event. Good-natured competition occurs as people jockey for the best positions and the party is on.

Besides the fun floats and groups, the kids will delight in getting hosed by the fire trucks and scrambling after hard candies thrown by the parade participants all along the route.

Water balloons are now prohibited due to damage to floats and vehicles that has occurred in recent years.

After the parade, the celebration will continue at Minor Park with live music, food, vendors, a beer garden, playground and more starting at 12 p.m. until 4 p.m..

The Anza Days festivities have been a highlight in the community for over nine decades and this year will be no exception.

To learn more about upcoming ACIL events, visit them at https:// www.facebook.com/AnzaCivicImprovementLeague/, www. anzacivic.org, or write PO Box 391000, Anza, CA 92539, call (951)330-4411, or email at anzacivic@gmail.com.

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

from spout pouches into baby food. It adds to a rapidly expanding body of evidence on how these tiny plastic particles enter the human body — a particular concern for infants, whose organs and nervous systems are rapidly developing. Even small exposures during these formative months can have lifelong effects on growth, neurological development, metabolism and reproductive health.

“Plastic is not innocuous, nor is it inert. Plastics are made from fossil fuels and thousands of chemicals, many of which are known to be hazardous to human health. Plastic should not be touching any food, certainly not baby food,” says Bullock.

The two brands studied account for roughly 40% of the global baby food market. These flexible twist-top pouches have become the fastest-growing form of packaging in the category of baby food. At a time when plastic-free options are increasingly limited, and certainly not accessible to all parents, advocates say the findings cast a shadow over the entire baby food aisle. In an effort to drive the industry in the right direction for the good of its customers and the planet, Greenpeace advocates are calling on the world’s leading brands to phase out plastic pouches in favor of non-toxic, plastic-free, reusable packaging. And because they say voluntary

corporate commitments haven’t gone far enough to meaningfully reduce companies’ plastic production, Greenpeace is also calling on governments to adopt the United Nations’ Global Plastics Treaty, which would hold producers accountable and curb plastic pollution at the source. To learn more and for full report details, visit https://www. greenpeace.org/usa/hidden-ingredient-gerber-baby-food-microplastics.

“Governments have more than enough information to apply the precautionary principle and take immediate action. Surely we can all agree that the burden of proof can’t be our children,” said Bullock.

Mt. San Jacinto College celebrates 2,952 graduates during commencement ceremonies

Temecula, CA – From first-generation college students and DREAMers to dual enrollment students, returning adult learners, and graduates completing degrees decades after first enrolling, the Mt. San Jacinto College Class of 2026 represented the diverse stories, perseverance, and aspirations that define the college’s mission of transforming lives through education.

Among the graduates this year were Naomi and Nayana Velardi, 22-year-old twins from Romoland who are both on the autism spectrum and earned certificates in Digital Media after pursuing studies in animation, video production, and graphic design with support from MSJC accommodation services and life coaches.

The ceremonies also highlighted the remarkable range of ages and experiences represented within the graduating class.

Alyssa Nicole Gumms of Perris, age 16, was recognized as the college’s youngest graduate this year. Alyssa began her college journey through dual enrollment and graduated with an Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts: Mathematics and Science while serving as this year’s Tassel Turner.

At the other end of the spectrum, Jacqueline M. Al-Rauf, a 75-year-old student from Hemet, was recognized as the oldest graduate in the Class of 2026 after earning her Associate of Science degree. Jacqueline has served as an emergency room registered nurse since 1982 after previously attending MSJC to earn her nursing degree. She returned to college decades later to earn an additional degree required to teach Licensed Vocational Nursing courses, reminding attendees that learning, growth, and service to others can continue throughout a lifetime.

The ceremonies also celebrated students whose educational journeys reflected resilience and determination across decades.

Melissa Lopez, a 48-year-old first-generation student from Murrieta, first enrolled at MSJC in 1995 before putting college on hold while raising four children as a single mother and working full time. This year, she completed two associate degrees: one in Behavioral Sciences and another in Administration of Justice.

“Coming back to college after all these years was something I did not think I would ever accomplish,” Lopez said. “I wanted to show my children that no matter how long it takes or what life puts in front of you, you can still achieve your goals. Earning these degrees means everything to me and my family.”

Students at the Temecula Valley Campus know Lopez well through her work at the campus café, where many affectionately refer to her as their “second mom” for the encouragement and kindness she brings to campus each day.

Esteban Valdes, a first-generation college student, returning student, and DREAMer from Lake Elsinore, was also recognized for overcoming hardship and becoming a student leader, mentor, and Supplemental Instruction Leader while preparing to transfer and pursue a future in business and finance.

“MSJC didn’t give us all the answers,” Valdes said. “But it gave us the space to ask the questions. To try. To fail. To change our minds. To grow into versions of ourselves we didn’t even know existed when we first got here. And I think that’s one of the most powerful things about this place. We found parts of ourselves we didn’t even know we were missing.” Student Trustee and commencement student speaker Claudia Walukouw, a 32-year-old returning student, also reflected on the transformative impact of her time at MSJC.

“When I think of education, I think of the night that I chose to go back to school in pursuit of a

nursing degree,” Walukouw said. “Older, non-traditional student, convinced that this was my last chance and not knowing that my time here at MSJC would have such a deep impact on my personal journey of finding my passions and finding the community I never knew I was missing.”

“These students remind all of us that there is no single path to success,” said Roger Schultz.

“Every graduate carries a story of perseverance, sacrifice, growth, and hope. Watching students transform their lives through education has been the greatest privilege of my career.”

This year’s commencement ceremonies also reflected the tremendous growth of Mt. San Jacinto College and the communities it serves.

When MSJC held its first commencement ceremony in 1965, the college graduated just eight students. Sixty-one years later, the college awarded 3,881 degrees to 2,952 graduates during four ceremonies over two days, underscoring the institution’s continued growth throughout one of California’s fastest-growing regions.

During Schultz’s nearly two decades as Superintendent/President, the college experienced significant transformation, including the expansion of college facilities by half a million square feet, increasing access to higher education opportunities across the region.

From 2008 to 2026, MSJC

experienced an average annual graduation growth rate of approximately 4.7%, rising from 1,681 degrees awarded in 2008 to 3,881 degrees awarded in 2026.

At the conclusion of the academic year, Schultz will retire

after leading 18 graduating classes at MSJC.

“This year’s commencement felt especially meaningful,” Schultz said. “As our Eagles prepared to soar into their futures, I found myself reflecting on how

far this college has come—and how much potential still lies ahead for both our students and this institution.”

STORM LAKE, LA -- Jillian Garcia was named to Buena Vista University’s Spring 2026 Dean’s List. Garcia was among more than 520 students named to the Dean’s List this semester.

The Dean’s List recognizes full-time students achieving a 3.5

grade point average or higher for the semester.

About Buena Vista University Buena Vista University (BVU), founded in 1891, is dedicated to unlocking every student’s greatest potential. As a leader in rural education and innovation, BVU offers

a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs designed to meet the evolving needs of today’s learners and tomorrow’s workforce. Located on the scenic shores of Storm Lake, BVU blends handson learning with dynamic classroom experiences, transforming

academic concepts into real-world impact. Its flexible online undergraduate and graduate programs provide accessible pathways for those balancing work, family, and other responsibilities. Guided by a strategic vision focused on three core themes-building outcomes,

Samford students named to Spring Dean’s List

BIRMINGHAM, AL -- Samford University recognizes 2,408 students named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2026 semester. To qualify for the dean’s list, a student must have earned a minimum 3.5 grade-point average out of a possible 4.0 while attempt-

ing at least 12 credit hours of coursework. The Dean’s List is the highest academic recognition given by the school at the end of each semester. Seth Oosting of Temecula, CA Zoe Zinn of Wildomar, CA

Located in the Homewood suburb of Birmingham, Ala -

bama, Samford is a leading Christian university offering undergraduate programs grounded in the liberal arts with an array of nationally recognized graduate and professional schools. Founded in 1841, Samford enrolls 6,324 students from 44 states, Puerto Rico and 16 countries in

its 10 academic schools: arts, arts and sciences, business, divinity, education, health professions, law, nursing, pharmacy and public health. Ranked among U.S. News & World Report’s 35 Most Beautiful College Campuses, Samford fields 17 athletic teams that compete in the tradition-rich

community, and connections-BVU empowers students and alumni to build confidently, foster meaningful relationships, and lead positive change in their communities and beyond.

Submitted by Buena Vista University

Southern Conference and boasts one of the highest scores in the nation for its 97% Graduation Success Rate among all NCAA Division I schools.

Submitted by Samford University

Kristin Verrico Named to The College of Charleston Spring 2026 Dean’s List

CHARLESTON, SC -Kristin Verrico, of Murrieta, was named to the College of Charleston Spring 2026 Dean’s List. Verrico is majoring in Classics and Biology.

To qualify for the Dean’s List (Distinguished), students must earn a GPA of 3.500 or higher

and complete a minimum of 12 semester hours.

Founded in 1770, the College of Charleston’s mission is to provide students with a world-class education in the arts and sciences, business and technology, engineering and health sciences. The College

provides a creative and intellectually stimulating environment where students are challenged and guided by a committed and caring faculty of distinguished teacher-scholars.

The city of Charleston serves as a living and learning laboratory for student experiences

LINCOLN, NE (06/15/2026)- Anna Jilek of Temecula has been named to the Dean’s List at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln for the spring

semester of the 2025-26 academic year. Jilek, a junior majoring in marketing, was named to the Dean’s List for the College of Business.

More than 6,200 students at Nebraska were named to the Dean’s List for the spring semester.

and opportunities for career development. The university bridges the old with the new in a setting that is truly extraordinary - where historic character and forward-looking innovation come together to shape a distinctive and inspiring environment for learning. A College of Charleston education focuses on discovery and personal growth, as well as preparation for life, work, and service to our society.

Submitted by College of Charleston

Anna Jilek of Temecula named to spring Deans’ List at Nebraska

Qualifications for the Dean’s List vary among the eight undergraduate colleges and the Explore Center. For the full Dean’s List, visit https://go.unl.

Justin Juniel graduates from Marquette University

MILWAUKEE, Wis. - This past spring, Justin Juniel of Lake Elsinore, CA, graduated from Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Juniel earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy.

Juniel was one of 3,166 students to graduate from Marquette in May. The university celebrated its 145th Commencement with a series of events, including Graduate Recognition Ceremonies at Fiserv

Forum and a Baccalaureate Mass on campus. Marquette University is a Catholic, Jesuit university that draws over 8,000 undergraduate and 3,700 graduate and professional

students from nearly all states and more than 60 countries. In addition to its nationally recognized academic programs, Marquette is known for its service learning programs and internships as stu-

edu/deanslist-spring26.

Submitted by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln

dents are challenged to use what they learn to make a difference in the world. Find out more about Marquette at marquette.edu.

Submitted by Marquette University

Courtney

Nolan-Hunter Special to the Valley News

This June marks twenty years since I graduated high school in Gilford, New Hampshire, barely made it across that stage and had absolutely no idea what was coming except a one-way ticket to California four days later. In the two decades since, I’ve built businesses, become a mother of two, survived a stroke during brain surgery that left me severely blind and rebuilt myself more times than I can count. I’ve had the kind of life that doesn’t follow a plan and I’m grateful for it. But if the version of me that exists today could sit down with

the girl waving her diploma, ready to go live, I’d slip her this list instead.

This might make you or your family uncomfortable. And that’s my point.

1. It’s better to cry in a pile of money than a pile of 1-ply toilet paper.

2. Stop considering people who don’t consider you.

3. Your brain is a liar and that fear is just bad math.

4. Go to trade school. Skip the four-year university if nobody’s paying for it. Or better yet, take a gap year and go see the world first.

5. The person you marry or

have children with is one of the most crucial decisions that will affect your life forever.

6. Shut up. Keep your goals and dreams to yourself because everyone wants you to do better, just not better than them.

7. Pretty privilege gets you invited. Your personality keeps you in the room.

8. Perfect one skill. The rest are hobbies until you make enough money.

9. Make sure your insides match your outsides.

10. Move. Leave New Hampshire. Go adventure. You can always go back home.

11. You can’t take everyone with you. Friendships end. Relationships change.

12. Fix the leak before you fill the bucket.

13. If you truly want to excel, stop caring about other people’s opinions.

14. Get comfortable being uncomfortable.

15. Your net worth is your network. You are the sum of the five people you spend the most time with. Choose wisely.

16. Do not over-explain yourself to anyone. You owe nobody an explanation.

17. Experiences will forever be superior to anything materialistic.

18. Learn to enjoy your own company. Seriously.

19. Consistency with a side of

confidence will take you further than talent ever will.

20. Always choose you. Always.

Bonus: Don’t get fat. And yes, this is partly about vanity, but more importantly your body is the only one you’ve got. Water it daily.

If even one thing on this list made you stop and rethink everything, my job here is done.

Class of 2026, go give us something to talk about.

Class of 2006, I hope you’re still dancing.

Kindergartners graduate from Soboba Tribal Preschool

Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians

The families and friends of 20 kindergarten students celebrated their graduation from the Soboba Tribal Preschool with a ceremony at the Soboba Sports Complex on June 3.

Despite undergoing some personnel changes throughout the school year, students emerged with all the knowledge they need to be successful in first grade. Preschool Director Lenora “Ponie” Mojado welcomed everyone to the event that celebrated the accomplishments of the young boys and girls. As they entered the gymnasium in their red caps and gowns to the playing of “Pomp and Circumstance” cell phones came out to capture all the activity.

After a blessing by Soboba’s Rosemary Morillo, the Intertribal Bird Singers and Bird Dancers invited the students to join them in front of the stage. Several community members worked with the students throughout the year to share these cultural experiences. Wayne Nelson, Benny Helms, Jonathan Saucedo, and Deven Lopez guided the boys in making their own gourd rattles. $ovóova Po’$wáamay (Daughter of Soboba) Su’la Arviso and So’a Nelson helped teach the girls how to dance. Students from the Soboba Reservation’s Noli Indian School also worked with the girls to design their own bird skirts that were delivered to the school after they were completed.

“We would like to honor Wayne Nelson and our Intertribal men for the amazing work they have done with our kindergarten gourds. Without these men, none of this would have been possible. Their dedication, heart, and cultural leadership mean so much to our students and to our program,” Mojado said. “We also want to honor the incredible women who stand strong in our community: So’a Nelson and Su’la Arviso. Their support, guidance, and cultural presence uplift our students and help keep our traditions alive showing the preschoolers how to dance. We are truly blessed to have all of them as part of the Soboba Tribal Preschool. Their time, teachings, and love for our children remind us how strong our community is when we come together. Their work deserves to be recognized, honored, and celebrated.”

Mojado reminded everyone that these young children will be high school seniors with the Class of 2039. And that these were the “COVID” babies. “What an incredible journey it has been,” she said. “This year flew by, and these little learners have grown in ways that continue to amaze me. I remember so many of them as tiny preschoolers—learning our classroom rules, practicing how to share, and coming in as caterpillars and leaving as butterflies. And now, here they are, ready to spread their wings and fly off to the big school for first grade.”

Proud parents and others were treated to a performance by the kids after they took the stage and sang along to “Count On Me” by Bruno Mars.

When teacher Alaina Adkins went out on maternity leave in early April, Mojado took over the class for a few weeks, and it was her favorite part of the year.

“I felt a genuine connection with them, and they truly inspired me,” she said. Many of them had been in her preschool class, which she taught before moving into administration at

the preschool. “Seeing how much they’ve grown reminded me why I love being a teacher. Their happiness, their funny comments, and their silly faces brightened my days. Each of these children brought something special to our classroom. Every memory, every laugh, every challenge, every hug—these moments made this year unforgettable. These kiddos… they hold a very dear place in my heart. I have a story for every single one of them. They are the reason I truly became a preschool teacher, and I am so grateful they were my first class. One of this year’s highlights for me was helping the students fill their marble jar and watching their excitement when they earned their glow - in - the - dark pizza party. They had the time of their lives. Even the pizza delivery driver commented on how fun it looked and said he never experienced anything like that when he was in kindergarten. I’m truly going to miss them. We built a strong connection from the very beginning and seeing how far they’ve come has meant a lot to me.”

Mojado said there had been many changes this year, but all were for the better. To the youngsters, she said, “I wish you nothing but great opportunities and a future filled with joy. And please remember this, my friends: Ms. Ponie will always be here for you. This isn’t goodbye, this is ‘see you later.’ I’ll see you at Fiesta, events, ball games, and around the Rez. You can be anything you want to be—reach for the stars. Your little steps will lead you to big journeys—and today, you have taken a beautiful step toward a bold, bright future.”

Betsy Post, who has been teaching the class for the past few weeks, and Instructional Aide Jasmine Basquez presented each student with their diploma along with a certificate that highlighted the special quality they exhibited in the classroom.

Members of the Class of 2026 and their awards are Creative Genius Charlie Ambriz, Future Teacher Marcie Brane, Resident Artist Moyla Castello, Leadership Legend Delilah Cervantes, Team Player Kyler Escalante, Positivity Powerhouse Exval Garcia, Ray of Sunshine Nadia Herrera, Class Comedian Paxaa Lindsey, Growth Mindset Champion Nokaamay Mathews-Garcia, Determined Dreamer Malakai Masiel, True Friend Kwiinamush Maxcy, Puzzle Pro Joseph Munoz, Musical Talent Ivan Musick (who willingly showed off his amazing imitation of Michael Jackson’s dance moves), Participation Pro Love Salgado-Flores, Helper Hero Nu$uun Valdez, Writing Wonder Selene Valenzuela, Best Listener Mav Vega, Inquisitive Thinker Kut Vega-Castello, Kindness Champion Paa’kal Vega-Castello, and Inspiring Leader Sonny Yazzie.

The sports complex walls were decorated with colorful hot air balloon cutouts under the title, “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” and self-portraits in a mortarboard with a description of what the little ones want to be when they grow up. Not surprisingly, choices include doctors, teachers, veterinarians, and firefighters. However, there were also students aspiring to be a Jabbawockeez (hip-hop dance crew member), a Ninja, or a YouTuber.

For more information on enrollment, please visit https:// preschool.soboba-nsn.gov.

Water Affordability Under Pressure from PFAS, Infrastructure Costs, Thomas Says

Joe Naiman for the Valley News

The Association of California Water Agencies 2026 spring conference May 5-7 in Sacramento, included a May 7 panel session moderated by Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District general manager Greg Thomas.

Thomas moderated a session called The Water Affordability Squeeze in an Era of Increasing Costs. He was joined on the panel by University of California, Riverside professor of environmental economics and policy Mehdi Nemati, State Water Resources Control Board member Sean Maguire, California Municipal Utilities Association director of water Andrea Abergel, and Leadership Counsel for Justice and Accountability directing attorney Michael Claiborne.

“I think we had a good, balanced group of perspectives,” Thomas said. “That was the purpose of the panel.”

California water agencies face significant cost increases not only to build and operate water and wastewater systems but also to comply with regulatory requirements such as per and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), hexavalent chromium, lead, and copper, which were not anticipated years ago.

“We definitely hear a lot about affordability, especially in California,” Thomas said. “There’s also discussion about water and the cost of water and the impacts on low-income and disadvantaged communities.”

Thomas was the general manager of the Rincon Del Diablo Municipal Water District in unincorporated Escondido before becoming the EVMWD general manager in 2019. He has lived in Temecula since 2004 and pays his water bills to the Rancho California Water District. He spent 22 years with the United States Marine Corps before retiring in

2006 as a Lieutenant Colonel and was in Washington, DC, before closing out his career at Camp Pendleton. Thomas was in charge of facility maintenance for the Marine Corps’ largest training installation, including water, wastewater, electricity, gas, roads, buildings, and landfills. After he retired from the military, he worked for engineering and construction companies, and he had a consulting business specializing in wastewater. Thomas took over as the Rincon Del Diablo district general manager in 2013.

During the past decade, Thomas has represented ACWA on various working groups. “I’ve been involved in the affordability issue for multiple years,” he said.

Consumer spending data indicated that California residents spend approximately 36 percent of their income on housing and 16.5 percent on transportation.

Water payments only account for 0.97 percent of the average resident’s expenses compared to income.

“Water is about 1 percent of your total income, though we recognize it may be higher for those who are classified as severely disadvantaged or low-income customers,” Thomas said.

“Your expenditure rate is pretty low,” Thomas said. “Based on this, and given all the other increasing expenses households face, I feel we need to change the narrative. Water is not unaffordable and is so critical for daily living.”

The 0.97 percent of income spent on water is less than a quarter of the 4 percent spent on entertainment. “You can’t survive without water,” Thomas said. Even more expensive residences need water and wastewater reliability. “If you don’t have water or wastewater service, you can’t live in that house; that’s per code,” Thomas said.

Reliability also means water without minerals or bacteria.

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“Contaminated water can affect so many people,” Thomas said. “We take this business very seriously.”

As the cost of fuel, electricity, and other expenses increases, water agencies also have those expenses. Ensuring that water and wastewater systems are operational also creates expenses.

“We need to maintain our infrastructure,” Thomas said. “It costs money to maintain our system.”

Per and polyfluoroalkyl substances are a group of man-made chemicals that include perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), and other chemicals. PFAS chemicals have been manufactured and used in many industries since the 1940s, and the commercial uses include clothes, cosmetics, dental floss, furniture, carpets, pizza boxes, popcorn bags, non-stick cookware, lubricants, paints, and firefighting foams. PFOS was phased out of production in the United States in 2002, and PFOA was phased out in the United States in 2015, although those chemicals are still present in some imported products. Because PFOS and PFOA do not break down and can accumulate over time, these chemicals exist in the environment and in the human body. Exposure to PFAS chemicals may result in adverse health effects. In April 2024 the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency adopted maximum contaminant levels of 4.0 parts per trillion (ppt) for PFOS and PFOA and 10 ppt for three other PFAS contaminants.

“We’re adding 10 to 30 million dollars of treatment costs for all our affected projects,” Thomas said. “That unfortunately gets borne by the ratepayers.”

Water agencies also need to retain well-trained operators.

“These are the things we’re facing every day,” Thomas said. “We have challenges. Now how do we go about solving these challenges while keeping rates low?”

Senate Bill 200 was signed by Governor Newsom in July 2019 and provided for the SAFER (Safe and Affordable Funding for Equity and Resilience) program to ensure reliable and affordable water for disadvantaged communities. The legislation established a $130 million Safe and Affordable Drinking Water Fund budget with revenue from the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund and the general fund. “They want to do something to solve the affordability and help, but it takes money,” Thomas said.

In November 1996, the state’s voters passed Proposition 218, which requires a public vote on benefit assessments. Proposition 218 exempts water and sewer rate increases if a cost-of-service study shows a relationship between the rates and the agency’s cost to provide water or sewer service.

Summary: Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District General Manager Greg Thomas moderated a panel on water affordability during the Association of California Water Agencies’ spring conference in Sacramento. The discussion focused on the growing costs facing water agencies, including infrastructure maintenance, regulatory compliance and treatment requirements for contaminants such as PFAS. Thomas argued that water remains relatively affordable compared to other household expenses, while emphasizing the need for state-funded assistance programs to help low-income customers. He said water agencies are balancing the challenge of maintaining reliable, safe service while keeping rate increases as low as possible.

“We’re not allowed to use ratepayer money per Prop. 218 to provide any low-income rate assistance,” Thomas said.

A water agency may use rebates and other non-ratepayer revenue for assistance programs.

The Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District has a Rate Assistance for Residents of Elsinore Valley (RARE) rate relief program, which offers an offset of up to $42.16 on a monthly bill for those low-income customers who are enrolled.

“That’s a lot of money. That’s usually at least one-third of a low-income person’s household bill,” Thomas said.

The district also has a Crisis Assistance Program, which provides a one-time offset of $200 for situations such as a job loss, significant medical expenses, or a family death. “Along with our RARE program, I think it’s one of the most generous out there,” Thomas said.

The panel also addressed two current state bills. Senate Bill 1125, which passed the State Senate and is currently in the State Assembly committee phase, would establish a Water Rate Assistance Program, including a fund. Assembly Bill 2739, which is now in the State Senate committee phase after a 78-0 State Assembly vote, would establish a program and funding to upgrade public and private water systems.

“The biggest thing that came out of this is a need for low-income state assistance and a reliable funding source,” Thomas said.

Thomas added that rate relief doesn’t reduce agency costs.

“That doesn’t fix or maintain your system. You’ve got to do both,” he said.

Decreases in water sales do not decrease an agency’s fixed costs. “Any business has fixed and variable costs,” Thomas said.

The EVMWD wastewater collection system includes three water reclamation facilities. The current average dry weather flow

is 7.70 million gallons per day (mgd), and by 2050 that flow is expected to increase to 17.47 mgd. The district has a long-term expansion plan to handle the increased flow.

“We have to recoup those costs,” Thomas said.

“The narrative needs to change. I don’t think the water industry needs to be a scapegoat for the other cost increases such as gasoline, food, health care, entertainment, etc.,” Thomas said. “We don’t raise prices because we’re bad people. We raise prices and rates because we have to cover the costs.”

Some agencies have tried to defer rate increases. “It actually makes it worse,” Thomas said. Thomas explained that minimizing rate increases now may result in larger rate increases in future years. “Nothing is getting cheaper in life,” he said. That could also defer needed maintenance. “If you don’t maintain your system, what it ends up doing is costing you more in the long run,” Thomas said.

“It’s just a matter of how you package it and how you present it,” Thomas said. “You’re paying one way or the other.”

The Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District provides potable water, recycled water, and wastewater collection and treatment within an area encompassing approximately 97 square miles with a population of approximately 159,000. The district has more than 47,000 water and sewer connections in Lake Elsinore, Canyon Lake, Murrieta, Wildomar, and the unincorporated communities of The Farm, Lakeland Village, Cleveland Ridge, Rancho Capistrano, El Cariso Village, Horsethief Canyon, Sedco, and Temescal Canyon.

“The super majority of people in California and the U.S. can turn on their tap and get safe drinking water,” Thomas said. “It comes straight to your house and when you flush your toilet, it goes away.”

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One adult, one juvenile killed in three-vehicle crash

Brian Briggs and Julie Reeder

An adult and a juvenile died Tuesday evening in a three-vehicle collision on State Route 74 in Hemet, according to the California Highway Patrol. According to Cal Fire Riverside Captain Clingingsmith, there were five victims and three were transported from the scene.

The crash was reported shortly before 6 p.m. at the intersection of Lincoln Avenue and Ramona Expressway in Hemet. CHP incident logs indicated three vehicles were involved, including a silver Nissan SUV, a silver sedan and a white Ford Mustang.

Initial reports stated that one vehicle rolled over and landed back on its wheels. Emergency responders from CHP, Riverside County Sheriff’s Office and Cal Fire were dispatched to the scene.

According to CHP logs, a juvenile was found without a pulse following the crash. Deputies and firefighters used rescue tools to access one of the vehicles and

attempted lifesaving measures.

At approximately 6:23 p.m., authorities requested the Riverside County Coroner’s Office respond to the scene. Additional entries later confirmed the coroner had been notified and was en route.

The collision prompted significant road closures in the area.

Authorities coordinated with Caltrans to shut down portions of State Route 74 and surrounding roads while investigators processed the scene and emergency crews worked to clear the wreckage.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation. No names or additional details regarding the victims have been released pending notification of next of kin.

Anyone with information about the collision is encouraged to contact the California Highway Patrol’s San Gorgonio Pass Area office.

This story will be updated as additional information becomes available.

ENTERTAINMENT

Movie Review: “Disclosure Day”

By Bob Garver

All-time-great director Steven Spielberg is back with a film built around one of his most popular subjects: aliens. From the man who brought us “Close Encounters of the Third Kind” and “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” comes “Disclosure Day,” a film about a small group of people deciding that it is time to let the rest of humanity know that they are not alone in the universe. After the deeply personal project “The Fabelmans,” this is Spielberg’s return to blockbuster filmmaking. And I do see this movie as a blockbuster, just not much of one.

The film essentially follows six characters: hacker Daniel Kellner (Josh O’Connor) and his girlfriend Jane (Eve Hewson), TV newswoman Margaret Fairchild (Emily Blunt) and her boyfriend Jackson (Wyatt Russell), organizer of key players Hugo (Colman Domingo), and shady coverup leader Scanlon (Colin Firth). Kellner has flash drives with evidence of alien activity on Earth dating back decades. Margaret suddenly has powers that are not of this world. Hugo has a full-sized replica of Margaret’s childhood home for some reason. Scanlon has alien tech that he’s ironically using against the aliens and their allies. Let the race to expose or bury the truth begin.

Following a botched drop to get back a kidnapped Jane from Scanlon, Kellner goes on the run with sketchy help from Hugo in a storyline reminiscent of recent Oscar winner “One Battle After Another.” Jane is shocked to learn that her boyfriend knows the truth about aliens, and he’s shocked to learn that she once aspired to be a nun. At first, she’s a liability to Kellner because she’s blissfully ignorant; then she’s a liability because she doesn’t agree with his cause; then she’s a liability because Scanlon gets to her. Kellner knows the score with the aliens, but Margaret doesn’t. She doesn’t know why she sud-

denly speaks every language or knows the personal life of everyone she sees or can’t help but speak an alien tongue on air. All she knows is that some bad people are after her because of it, and the skeptical Jackson is reluctantly along for the ride. Could it have something to do with repressed childhood memories about unconvincing CGI forest animals? Kellner and Margaret meet up to have an action scene with a speeding train. We know from “The Fabelmans” that Spielberg loves speeding trains almost as much as he loves crashing them.

For a movie called “Disclosure Day,” there’s a lot of suspense around whether or not the truth will be disclosed. Spoiler Alert: it will be, so don’t worry about it. If you want to worry about something, worry about the individual characters making it to the end alive, which isn’t a lock. Though these characters are so dull that I couldn’t get too invested in their survival.

Spielberg usually makes good decisions about the way this film looks and sounds (Yes, frequent collaborator John Williams is doing the score), but I don’t agree with how he has the story unfold. Instead of exploring the rich potential for how humanity will respond to this mind-blowing news about aliens, he focuses on the buildup to the news, which isn’t that interesting. There’s a brief mention of how people will react if their deeply held religious beliefs are shaken, but it’s brushed aside in favor of chase antics. I would have put the disclosure at the beginning of this film and given the bulk of the runtime to the fallout.

Grade: C

“Disclosure Day” is rated PG-13 for action/violence, some bloody images and strong language. Its running time is 145 minutes.

Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@nyu.edu.

EDUCATION

Menifee Valley Students of the Year are honored

Diane A. Rhodes

Special to Valley News

The Perris Valley Chamber of Commerce and the Menifee Valley Chamber of Commerce 2025-2026 Student of the Month program held breakfast recognition events from September through April. Students nominated by their teachers and staff at their respective school sites were chosen for their character, integrity, love of learning, ability to persevere and overcome challenging circumstances, community service, and how they make a difference on their high school campus. They accomplish all this in a setting that honors God, country, community, family, and free enterprise.

Sally Myers of Sizzler/BMW Management Inc. is the founder of the program, celebrating its 28th year in the Perris/Menifee area.

Five Perris Union High School District students, one prior Student of the Month from each school, were recognized as Student of the Year scholarship recipients at a breakfast held in their honor at the Perris Sizzler, 91 W. Nuevo Road, on May 27. Students competed in a rigorous scholarship application process, judged by community members, and each winner received a scholarship and many gifts and certificates donated by local organizations and businesses.

Students spoke from their hearts about what it meant to receive this award and expressed their thanks and appreciation to their families and the community. Myers said they were asked to share their passion and how it is unique to them, what legacy they will leave behind, how they have added value to those around them, and how they plan to challenge themselves to grow and develop new relationships and serve others after high school.

California Military Institute’s

Student of the Year is Cadet Second Lieutenant Antonio Lopez, who was the school’s Student of the Month in March. He credited his involvement with Rotary and the RYLA leadership program for helping him discover a passion for mentoring and serving others. Antonio plans to attend California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, where he intends to pursue a career as an orthopedic sports medicine physician. Inspired by his passion for biomechanics, human movement, and helping others, he hopes to combine his interests by restoring mobility and improving the lives of patients. Before beginning college, Antonio plans to complete an accelerated Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) program to gain hands-on medical experience.

Heritage High School’s honoree is Jun Shuo “Julia” Yang, who had been recognized in February. Born in China, Julia moved to the United States with her mother at age five. Due to family and financial circumstances, she was raised primarily by her aunt and uncle while her mother supported her from a distance. These experiences taught her independence and determination from an early age. In high school, Julia discovered the importance of community and teamwork via sports and campus organizations. Through these activities, she developed a passion for community involvement, leadership, and advocating for fellow students. Julia plans to attend the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where she will major in Financial Actuarial Mathematics.

Student of the Year for Liberty High School is Nevaeh Isabella Villalobos, September’s Student of the Month. She shared that her greatest strength is her ability to connect with people from all backgrounds, a skill that has helped her build meaningful relationships and serve her school

community as Senior Class President and through various district leadership opportunities. Nevaeh will be attending the University of California, Berkeley, where she plans to major in English on a pre-law track. She shared her passion for justice, advocacy, and public service and stated that her experiences at Liberty High School have prepared her to pursue her goals while continuing to make a positive impact on those around her.

Miley, who was valedictorian for Paloma Valley’s Class of 2026, will attend UCLA, where she plans to major in English. A passionate reader and storyteller from a young age, she hopes to pursue a career in publishing and eventually become an author.

Miley explained that her love of stories extends beyond writing; she is passionate about helping others share their experiences and ensuring that people feel heard and valued.

Perris High School’s Student of the Year is Daisy Casas Chavez, who was January’s Student of the Month. She shared that her passions for leadership, culinary arts, and helping others have shaped

Paloma Valley High School’s Student of the Year is Miley Ryan Lundstrom, who was previously honored in September. She reflected on her lifelong dedication to academics and the importance of resilience when facing unexpected challenges.

her high school experience and future goals. Daisy noted that what distinguishes her is not only her diverse interests but also her commitment to making a meaningful impact on the lives of others. Looking ahead, she plans to continue stepping outside her comfort zone, developing new skills and relationships, and finding ways to support youth and her community. Daisy plans to attend California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, where she will major in Animal Health Science. For more information on the Student of the Month program, please contact founder Sally Myers at 951-506-8024.

A different path in the Middle East

Julie Reeder Publisher

For more than four decades, Americans have been told that conflict with Iran was inevitable. Administrations came and went. Sanctions piled on sanctions. Billions of dollars in cash were flown in planes to appease Iran, who then supported terrorist organizations in Iran and other countries:

• Lebanon (Hezbollah)

• Syria (multiple militias supporting Assad)

• Iraq (PMF factions and other militias)

• Yemen (Houthis)

• Palestinian territories (Hamas, PIJ)

• Afghanistan (Fatemiyoun recruitment)

• Pakistan (Zainebiyoun recruitment)

Threats were met with counter-threats. Proxy wars erupted across the Middle East. Yet the fundamental question remained unanswered: Was there ever going to be an off-ramp?

This week, the United States and Iran appear to have taken a step toward providing one.

According to public statements

from Vice President JD Vance, Pakistan and Iranian officials, a memorandum of understanding has been signed that both sides say will begin winding down a conflict that threatens global energy supplies, regional stability and the lives of countless civilians.

Whether every detail ultimately survives the negotiating process remains to be seen. Middle East diplomacy has a long history of collapsing under the weight of old grievances and competing interests. But even reaching this point is significant.

Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of the process is who appears to have been involved.

For decades, major geopolitical decisions were largely viewed through a Western alliance framework centered on NATO, the European Union, and the G7. This agreement suggests a different reality is emerging. Reports indicate that Russia, China, Gulf nations and regional stakeholders all played roles in helping bring the parties toward an agreement.

That is not an endorsement of Russia or China. It is a recognition that the world is changing.

Successful diplomacy increasing-

OPINION

ly requires engaging nations outside traditional Western institutions. If adversaries can be persuaded to help prevent a broader war, reduce the risk of nuclear proliferation and stabilize global energy markets, that is diplomacy serving its intended purpose.

Critics will argue that Iran cannot be trusted. History provides ample reasons for caution. The administration appears to recognize that reality. Officials have repeatedly stated that sanctions relief will be tied to compliance and verification, not promises alone.

That distinction matters.

The goal of foreign policy should not be to create permanent enemies. It should be to protect American interests and support the sovereignty of other countries as well. It’s still true that a rising tide lifts all boats.

Agreements should be a win-win. If inspections prevent a nuclear weapon, if shipping lanes remain open, if energy prices stabilize, and if American troops are less likely to be drawn into another generation-long conflict, those outcomes serve the interests of the United States.

The agreement also highlights a growing divide between Washington and some of its traditional

allies. While European leaders have expressed support for diplomacy, they were not the central players in these negotiations.

That reality may be uncomfortable for some in Brussels and NATO headquarters, but it reflects a broader truth. The United States cannot outsource its foreign policy.

American presidents are elected to advance American interests, not simply to maintain existing geopolitical structures.

For years, voters have grown weary of interventions that begin with promises of quick victories and end with decades of occupation, nation-building, and trillion-dollar price tags. Afghanistan. Iraq. Libya. Syria. Americans have seen enough. If this agreement holds, it may represent something different: diplomacy backed by strength and unity rather than endless escalation.

The greatest accomplishment would not be a document signed in Switzerland. It would be demonstrating that even long-standing adversaries can move from military confrontation to negotiated solutions.

The real winners would not be politicians in Washington, Tehran, Moscow, Beijing, Brussels or Je-

rusalem.

The winners would be ordinary people who would rather see trade than blockades, prosperity than sanctions, and diplomacy than another forever war.

History will ultimately judge whether this agreement succeeds. But after decades of conflict, the pursuit of peace deserves at least the same chance that war has been given.

But one unanswered question remains for me: What happens to the Iranian people?

Many had their hopes raised by the possibility of real change. They have lived for decades under a regime that has restricted speech, punished dissent, oppressed women and ruled through fear. Will that change? Will they still murder thousands of their protesting citizens in the streets? Is this agreement an open door to more freedom for them, or will they continue to live under threat of death, intimidation and the absence of basic liberties?

Peace between governments is important. But lasting peace must also consider the people who have suffered under those governments.

Temecula Chamber joins regional leader in opposing proposed powerline route through Temecula Valley

Temecula — The Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has joined regional partners, including the City of Temecula, Visit Temecula Valley, and the Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association, in formally opposing the proposed Golden Pacific Powerlink infrastructure route through the Temecula Valley. The Chamber’s decision reflects a unified regional position and follows a recent review of updated project materials and potential long-term community impacts.

The Golden Pacific Powerlink is a proposed high-voltage transmission project intended to connect Southern California energy infrastructure through multiple jurisdictions, including the Temecula Valley region.

The Chamber’s action reflects its responsibility to represent nearly 1,000 member businesses and more than 14,800 employees across the region and follows a comprehensive review of the project’s potential impacts on public safety, environmental resources, and long-term economic stability.

This position aligns with the City of Temecula and key regional partners, all of whom have expressed opposition to the proposed infrastructure route. Collectively, these organizations reflect a unified concern regarding potential risks to the region’s safety, economy, and

quality of life.

Key Concerns Identified by the Chamber

Following a review of project materials and consultation with regional stakeholders, the Chamber Board identified the following primary concerns:

• Increased wildfire risk associated with high-voltage transmission infrastructure located within a high and very high Fire Hazard Severity Zone

• Long-term impacts to tourism, hospitality, agriculture, retail, and wine industries that serve as core drivers of the regional economy

• Environmental and land use impacts, including sensitive wildlife corridors, habitat areas, and scenic landscapes integral to the region’s identity

• Cultural and tribal resource considerations, including areas of significance to the Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians

• Cumulative concerns related to environmental review standards, public safety, and long-term infrastructure planning

• Disproportionate community impacts with NO direct benefit to the region from the proposed route

The Chamber emphasizes that while it supports responsible infrastructure development to meet California’s growing energy needs,

such development must be balanced with the protection of communities, natural resources, and local economies.

“The Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce represents the collective voice of our business community, and that responsibility includes ensuring long-term economic stability and public safety,” said Esther Phahla, 2026 Chair of the Board. “Following careful review, the Board determined that this infrastructure route presents unacceptable risks to the region’s businesses, residents, and natural environment.”

Brooke Nunn, President/CEO of the Temecula Valley Chamber

of Commerce, added, “We remain committed to constructive engagement on infrastructure solutions that support California’s energy future. However, those solutions must be developed in a manner that avoids placing undue risk on communities such as Temecula Valley. We value the collaboration of our members, public agencies, and regional partners throughout this process.”

The Chamber will continue working in coordination with public agencies, industry partners, and community stakeholders to support alternative routing solutions that avoid high fire-risk areas and environmentally sensitive

corridors while meeting statewide infrastructure needs. The Chamber will remain actively engaged as the project process advances in alignment with regional priorities and community protection efforts.

About Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce: The Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization based in Temecula, CA. The Mission of the Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce is to partner with the business community by: Connecting People, Solving Business Challenges, and Supporting Business-Friendly Initiatives.

The Southern California Corvette Club (SCCC) would like to invite Corvette car owners to our monthly lunch runs.

We are looking for new members all the time.

Text (619) 665-3999 for more information or email magerkurths@yahoo.com