Residents from across the San Jacinto Valley gathered over Memorial Day weekend for a unique outdoor experience hosted by Hemet Mom’s Adventure Club (HMA), a growing local nonprofit dedicated to connecting families through nature-based activities.

The group organized a family-friendly campout at Golden Era Golf Course, where dozens of families came together for a weekend centered on community, outdoor fun, and shared experiences. Unlike traditional clubs, HMA operates without membership fees, offering free or low-cost events that are open to families from Hemet, San Jacinto, and surrounding areas.

While its Facebook group is reserved for female caregivers, HMA’s in-person events are designed for the entire family. The Memorial Day gathering reflected the group’s inclusive spirit, with attendees enjoying camping, socializing, and outdoor recreation in an environment defined by generosity and connection.

Hemet Mom’s Adventure Club focuses on encouraging children and families to embrace the outdoors. Through activities such as fishing trips, campfires, trail exploration, Jeep rides, and river outings, the organization promotes values like curiosity, resilience, and confidence while strengthening family bonds.

The nonprofit operates under the sponsorship of the San Jacinto Lions Club and has become a valued community resource. Organizers emphasize their mission to “trade screens for sunrises” and create meaningful, lasting memories through shared outdoor experiences.

Golden Era Golf Course has served as a long-time partner, helping make events like the recent campout possible. Organizers say the collaboration allows more local families to access safe, welcoming outdoor spaces.

Participants described the weekend as a standout experience, with some noting it rivaled even major theme park outings in terms of enjoyment. For many families, the event offered a rare opportunity to unplug, connect, and create lasting memories close to home.

One mother had the following to say, “My grandkids and I had a blast.  We felt so safe and comfortable surrounded by friends. We had a great adventure and appreciate Golden Era letting us share your beautiful space.”

Hemet Mom’s Adventure Club continues to host events throughout the year and welcomes new participants. Those interested in joining or learning more can find the group on Facebook by searching “Hemet Mom’s Adventure Club” or contact organizers directly at

hemetmomsadventureclub@gmail.com.

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“For the 20th anniversary, our goal was to make the event feel truly rooted in the community,” Aceves said. “We focused on bringing in as many local vendors as possible to showcase the talent, culture, and spirit we have right here at home. More than anything, we wanted people to come together, enjoy a beautiful day, and celebrate what Earth Day is all about. In the end, we really did love the Earth together—and that sense of unity made the milestone feel extra special.”

Birdsingers from Torres Martinez started off the morning in traditional fashion while students from the Soboba Tribal Preschool performed “We Love the Earth” a little later to a very enthusiastic audience.

“We were thrilled to welcome community favorites like Gil’s Critters and the Living Desert Zoo & Gardens, who always draw big smiles while teaching families about our native wildlife,” Aceves said. “Our food vendors included Native-owned gems like Frybread Kitchen and Papa Langos, who kept everyone happy with delicious handmade tortillas and Indian tacos.” The Soboba Youth Council provided root beer floats throughout the day.

The Green Coalition’s Wiggs and Ginger Mendoza were making their 20th appearance at the Earth Day event, providing free take-home succulents such as aloe vera to help promote the growth of native and sustainable plants.

“Giving away plants is part of our mission and part of what this day should be about,” Wiggs said. He explained to those at their stand that the aloe plant can be used as a moisturizer or hair treatment and explained how it can have medicinal properties for cuts and burns.

“The Green Coalition has been our longest-standing partner, and we’re incredibly grateful for their continued presence and support at Soboba Earth Day,” Aceves said. “Their commitment has really helped shape the event into what it is today.” For more information, https://greensanjacinto.org.

EMWD Public Affairs Specialist Allan Freetage shared the importance of not letting certain items go down household drains and offered sink strainers to visitors to help with that. “Our Hydration Station van is a great educational tool to show that tap water can be good,” he said as he offered free cups for guests to fill with cold water.

Climate Science Alliance made a strong showing with informative handouts for adults and fun activities for children at their booth. The organization’s goal is to work with communities to help Native lands survive. “We have trainings with different community partners to help share knowledge,” Grants and Partnership Manager Edgar Carrillo said. Education Program Manager Sarah Morgan said the most important thing is to stay connected as community-based solutions are best.

“There was also strong representation from neighboring Tribal Environmental Departments of Santa Rosa, Morongo, Pechanga, Augustine, and 29 Palms, highlighting the unity and collaboration across our Tribes,” Aceves said.

 Pechanga’s Director of Environmental Helen Waguiu was passionate about explaining the damage being incurred to local oak trees due to the invasive Goldspotted Oak Borer (GSOB). She shared details of how to look for them so they can be reported and dealt with before causing further harm. She readily explained how the impact of this pest is far reaching. A reduction in oak tree population threatens cultural practices; Coast Live Oak, which is one the GSOB targets, is known as a keystone species and plays a vital role in the local ecosystem; oaks provide food and habitat to thousands of species; and dead and dying oak trees contribute to dangerous levels of wildfire fuel.

Local universities such as CSUSB, UCR, and University of Redlands showcased their environmental programs, inspiring the next generation of environmental leaders.

“Alongside them were essential partnerships with local utilities, nonprofits, and agencies,” Aceves said. “It truly was a vibrant mix of organizations, creating a space where our community could learn, connect, and get inspired. Having such a wide variety of vendors made the day feel full, energized, and incredibly meaningful.”

Soboba Cultural Resource Department representatives Renee Rhodes, Jessica Valdez, and Lily Brandt shared how their Cultural Garden at The Oaks is rooted in tradition and why it’s important to protect the earth.

“Tribal culture is land based,” Valdez said. “Once depleted, we cannot practice our traditional way of life.”

Aceves spent much of his time at the STED check-in area to greet guests and make sure they got their tickets for a free meal, a raffle prize chance and a vote for the best student poster. He also visited each vendor to personally thank them for their participation.

Silvas interacted with guests, vendors and others throughout the four-hour event. She said she received a lot of positive feedback about the food, the 39 raffle prizes and all of the different activities for children to do, especially the bird walk that was provided by Robin Roberts. She enjoyed seeing community members interact with all the different vendors and seeing how large the event has grown.

“Another highlight for me was all of the community members, employees, and different departments that volunteered to help us put this all together,” Silvas said. “I’m very appreciative to have their support and we couldn’t have done it without them.”

The standout moment for Aceves was the sheer number of people who showed up.

“Every year our event grows, and with it, Soboba’s commitment to environmental stewardship shines even brighter,” he said. “Seeing the community arrive in droves—families, students, elders, everyone—really exemplifies their dedication to learning, caring for the land, and celebrating the earth together. That kind of turnout is the best reminder of why we put so much heart into this event.”

Activities leading up to the celebration included the invitation to have Soboba departments design creative displays using all recyclable materials and Noli Indian School science students collaborating on posters that depicted the theme of this year’s event.

One of Sabrina Smith’s classes won first place scoring a fun pizza party while all other classes were treated to an ice cream party. The winner is chosen by attendees who each receive a ticket to be placed in the bucket set up next to their favorite poster.

Soboba Housekeeping won first place once again this year with their “McLovin’ the Earth” McDonald’s restaurant theme.

Aceves said that as the event has grown, so has the planning timeline.

“These days, we’re preparing earlier and earlier to make sure everything comes together seamlessly,” he said. “For this year’s celebration, we started more than six months in advance. At this point, half of our department’s calendar revolves around Earth Day, but we love it. It’s a huge lift but seeing the community show up the way they did makes every bit of preparation worth it.”

He said the most important thing people can do to make every day Earth Day is to love it.

“This year I selected the theme ‘Love the Earth’ (‘Éxla ‘Omá’ma) so that people could reflect on why they love the earth,” Aceves said. “In the opening remarks I asked participants to reflect on why they love the earth, be it the mountains that ground you, the rivers that bring life, or just the feeling of fresh air after a long day. Whatever it is, hold onto it because what we love is what we protect.”

For information on upcoming STED events, please visit https://epa.soboba-nsn.gov.

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    The concert will feature a blend of patriotic, sacred and contemporary selections performed by the longtime community choir. Audience members can expect a program that includes favorites such as “Battle Hymn of the Republic,” “The Impossible Dream,” “Measure Me, Sky!” and “A Little Song of Life,” according to information provided by the chorale.

    This year’s performance also marks the debut concert for the group’s new music director, Joshua Romo, along with newly appointed accompanist Julie Edwards-Matanga.

    Romo currently serves as director of music at First Congregational Church of Riverside. He earned his Bachelor of Music degree from Azusa Pacific University, where he performed with the university’s Chamber Singers and several other vocal ensembles. He also serves as associate conductor for the Vocal Affinity ensemble and previously worked as artistic director for the Rose Singers community choir.

    Edwards-Matanga holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in music from the University of Redlands. Throughout her career, she has worked extensively as a collaborative pianist and vocalist, performing in solo recitals, choirs, opera productions and musical theater performances.

    In addition to accompanying the Harmoneers Chorale, Edwards-Matanga serves as music director for Upland United Methodist Church and the Rancho D’Vines women’s chorus. She also teaches music courses at Mt. San Jacinto College’s Menifee and San Jacinto campuses.

    Founded in 1977, the Harmoneers Chorale has been a longstanding part of the Hemet-area arts community for nearly five decades. The organization traditionally presents two major concerts each year, including a themed spring performance and a holiday concert featuring sacred and secular Christmas music.

    The group also supports local students through scholarship opportunities for graduating high school seniors pursuing careers in vocal music, music education or musical theater.

    Tickets for the May 17 concert are $15 and will be available at the door. Membership in the chorale is open to experienced singers ages 18 and older who successfully complete an audition process.

    Additional information about the Harmoneers Chorale can be found at harmoneerschorale.com.

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The lakes, stocked with bass and catfish, welcomed young anglers ages 6 to 15, who collectively caught an impressive 141 fish. More than 600 attendees and volunteers participated in the event, highlighting strong community support for family-oriented activities.

The largest catch of the day was a 9.86-pound fish reeled in by 8-year-old Destiny Kuehn, earning her four Disneyland tickets, a $100 Disney gift certificate, and a trophy. The second-largest fish, weighing 8.8 pounds, was caught by 14-year-old Alfonzo Perez, who received two Disneyland tickets, a $100 Disney gift certificate, and a trophy.

Participants competed in two age divisions: Junior (ages 6–10) and Senior (ages 11–15). The top 10 finishers in each division received awards and prizes, including a birthday party for 50 guests, boat rental and fishing at Lake Perris, paintball passes, amusement tickets, and fishing passes.

The event also featured a variety of family-friendly activities, including a BBQ hosted by the Hemet Kiwanis Club, demonstrations by Boy Scout Troop #46, a fire truck appearance by Cal Fire Station 25, and interactive booths hosted by local organizations.

The tournament opened with a special aerobatic flyover during the National Anthem, performed by Doug Medore and Dave Mundwiler, with vocals by Linda Greilich of Golden Era Productions. San Jacinto Councilwoman Valerie Vandever served as Master of Ceremonies.

Thanks to generous sponsors and community support, every child received a t-shirt, breakfast snack bag, goody bag, fishing pole (if needed), and lunch.

Community feedback highlighted the importance of events like this, with attendees emphasizing the value of outdoor activities, family time, and positive youth experiences.

This annual event continues to strengthen community bonds while creating lasting memories for local families.

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A man rode into town on Friday. He stayed for three nights and then left on Friday.

How is this possible?

Have you ever played these kind of games? Some of you may pause to figure them out and others will simply wonder what nut-case came up with this stuff?! Answer: someone who probably has way too much time on their hands. And…when you read the answers you will really dislike them. It’s actually called “lateral thinking.”

With our man in the elevator, the reason he would only go to the 6th floor on his return home is that this was the highest button he could reach on the elevator control panel. He was a short man. On days that it rained he had his umbrella with him so he could use the umbrella to punch in his 10th floor. The man on the horse? The man’s horse was named Friday!

So now that you’e got the hang of it, let’s try one more. On Friday night a man dies. He’s buried that same night. On Sunday morning his friends arrive at the grave only to discover his body is gone. What happened?

One of the problems of Jesus’ resurrection is that many people try to make sense out of everything that happened. Exactly how could Jesus die and then come back to life again? It doesn’t make any sense. No – it sure doesn’t make sense. How could our Creator love us so much that He would take our place in death and be our substitute? He lived the life we couldn’t live and died the dead we should have died. It’s hard to make sense of.

But questions have answers – if we look hard enough. Josh McDowell, a man who initially set out to disprove Christianity was asked, “Professor, why can’t you refute Christianity?” His reply? “For this simple reason – the resurrection of Jesus Christ.” After more than seven hundred hours of studying and investigating the evidence, it only led him to God. Josh would later write his now-famous book, “Evidence That Demands a Verdict.” I could go on & on listing people who have sought God and come to his same conclusion.

Each apostle in the New Testament, except for John, died a martyr’s death. They died rather than recant their belief in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. I don’t believe for a nano-second they would have died for a lie! Who would do that?! History has shown people will give their lives for what they believe is true but not die for what they know is false.

In an Indiana cemetery there lies a tombstone which reads: “Pause stranger, when you pass me by. As you are now son, once was I. As I am now, so you will be. So prepare for death and follow me.” An unknown passerby read those words and sketched beneath them: “To follow you I’m not content – Until I know which way you went.” Fair enough.

I always tell people that eternity is a long time to spend in the wrong place! Easter Sunday is right around the corner – April 5th. The day we celebrate the resurrection of the One who took our place in death so we could have eternal life. You are invited to join us at 10 am for free coffee & donuts as we celebrate this amazing gift of life. As the sign on the back of the car for a home security business asks: “What have you got to lose?” Selah!

Bob and Susan Beckett pastor The Dwelling Place City Church at 27100 Girard Street in Hemet, Ca. For more information, you may contact them at Dpcitychurch.org

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And Inland Empire Girl Scouts are ready.

They picked up boxes to sell during Mega Drop events across the region on Saturday, Jan. 24.

Hundreds of volunteers gathered at four sites — in Riverside, Lake Elsinore, Apple Valley and Palm Desert — to sort and distribute more than a million boxes of cookies, a news release states.

The Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio Council hosts the event each year to launch the cookie sales season.

Across the Inland Empire, 326 troops signed up to sell nearly 900,000 packets of cookies — nearly 73,000 cases, according to the council.

The sales helps girls learn entrepreneurial skills, how to manage money and business ethics, the release states.

For information on buying Girl Scout Cookies, click here.

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Each participant was nominated by their peers, a testament to their influence and impact. The criteria for selection were simple yet profound: each individual had significantly contributed to the growth and awareness of MALHY. Headquartered in Temecula, the nonprofit serves Riverside and San Diego counties, extending its reach to all of Southern California for special projects.

This gathering at Harveston Lake was designed to express gratitude to these visionaries. The organizers asked each honoree to share a single word that encapsulated their passion and commitment within the community. This unique approach highlighted the essence of their contributions, offering a powerful visual and emotional narrative.

Those honored included Jessica Smith, who, as President of MALHY Community Outreach and Protective Services, is passionate to “inspire.” Carly Bennett-Valle, CEO/CFO of the Boys & Girls Club of Southwest County, shared her passion for “love.” Jarah (Shannon) Besou Shay, CEO and Holistic Practitioner/Trichologist, expressed her passion for being “grateful.”

Also among those celebrated were Tonette Blum, Director of Sales for PM International USA, who is passionate to “believe,” and Angie Blum, who is passionate about “resilience.” Laura Burgues, an entrepreneur and hairstylist, expressed her passion for being “inspirational,” while Yasmin Burks, a firearms safety specialist, is driven to
“Empower.”

The event also honored Tina Casen, a doctor passionate to encompass being “determined,” and Tolanda (Hughes) Chenise, Executive Ambassador for the Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce, who stands for “faith.” Juel Copeland, a dean, is passionate about “joy,” while community leader Lowona Crawford embodies being a “visionary.”

Other honorees included Joanna Cruz, founder of Together on Disabilities, whose word is “ambitious,” and Nicole Davis, Assistant Director of ABC Childcare Village and President of Professional Women’s Roundtable, who chose “compassionate.” Attorney Deanna DeCosimo of DeCosimo Law is driven by “legacy,” and Lisa Dewitt, Account Executive with Corner Escrow, values being “authentic.”

The passionate words continued with Mia Hardy, CEO of Address HER Needs, who finds “intrigue” vital, and Darlene Hawley, a leadership development and business coach, who values “resilience.” Dr. Dahlene Holiness, h.c., is all about “empowerment,” and Carol Izard Givens, founder and executive director of Mrs. B’s Table, embodies being a “visionary.”

Kassen Klein, a real estate development consultant, simply stated his passion as “passionate,” while Stephanie Mearse, Vice President, values being a “connector.” Mayor Bridgette Moore of Wildomar thrives on being “collaborative,” and Teri Sue Parker, founder of Good Samaritan Community Food Pantry, is passionate about “nourishment.”

Laurie Provost, CEO of the Professional Women’s Roundtable, chose “fierce,” while Dr. Mary Rankin, a mental health supervisor, emphasized “tenacious.” Event organizer Evia Shaw’s word is “dedicated,” and Kimberle Smith Austin, a business, health, and life strategist, is all about “growth.” Attorney Daisy Tate values being a “convener,” and April Vidal of Miss April’s Dance thrives on “energy.”

Rounding out the honorees were Violet Williams, CEO and transformational life coach, who is passionate about “love,” and Karena Zermeno, founder of the Hemet-San Jacinto Student of the Month program and Business Development Manager at Altura Credit Union, whose word is “serve.”

MALHY’s mission is to lead individuals to accept their free spirit, redefine their freedom, and create a positive personal survival journey. The organization’s purpose is to serve the community with resources for those aged 10-25. This mission is carried out through various programs addressing critical issues of Mental Health: Providing counseling, mediation services, and support; Addiction Recovery: Offering recovery programs, job placement, housing, food, and clothing; Love: Fostering deep, meaningful connections within the community; Human Trafficking Support: Assisting with medical exams, legal services, job placement, housing, food, and clothing; Youth Literacy: Conducting financial workshops, etiquette classes, and sports camps. All combined, these critical issues form the acronym of the nonprofit’s name.

MALHY president Jessica Smith is already encouraging the community to save the date for the nonprofit’s third annual fundraising Winter Giving Gala on Dec. 8 at Pechanga Resort Casino’s Eagle’s Nest. Discounted tickets are on sale now through Nov. 30. The nonprofit holds quarterly board meetings, with events and updates regularly published on its website at www.malhy.org.

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Rachel King | Contributor

A tale as old as time: deceit, deception, trickery. I am no historian, but I am willing to bet a good sum that people have been swindling each other since the sixth day of Genesis. Tales of doublehanded cheaters run thick through generations, warning and teaching of devious behavior. Scams are nothing new.

Technological advancements, artificial intelligence, and seemingly limitless access to information at the click of a button are creating very sophisticated scams. No longer is it only the prince of Egypt in desperate need of help, now we are getting phone calls from our grandchildren pleading for bail money with a promise not to tell; thing is it’s not your grandbaby on the other line- it’s a fraud. Today’s scams pull at our heartstrings or leave us in fear; scams are becoming so clever that we are all susceptible. every. single. one of us.

It is important to be aware of the latest scams. We must be prudent, aware, and cautious. Yet, one of the oldest scams in the book is becoming more and more frequent. No technology or AI is needed. The success of this scam relies completely on trust. Curious? It is simple, really. The target is easy, already known. The loot kept in broad daylight. The entire act carried out in the open. It’s financial elder abuse. And it’s on the rise.

It is: caregivers and family members using love, trust, and companionship to manipulate the senior into giving them property.

It is: caregivers and family members controlling the senior by ensuring they have food and clothing, that their bills are paid and they get to their doctor’s appointments, and then taking advantage of their vulnerability for self interests.

It is: caregivers and family members causing the senior to become so reliant that they don’t even realize they are being isolated.

It is: caregivers and family members convincing the senior that there is only one person in this world that loves them.

It is: unduly influencing the senior to gift or bequest all of their assets to the caregiver or family member.

It is: common. Nearly all of the financial elder abuse cases that I have been involved with are the result of a caregiver or family member using undue influence and these tactics to procure money, real estate, or property.

Statistics show that nearly 3.5 million seniors are vulnerable to scams and abuse. Fortunately, there is a path forward. Law enforcement and District Attorneys seem to be pushing harder to prosecute financial elder abusers. The FBI is developing an elder abuse unit. Laws are making the penalties harsher and harsher for abusers.

If you believe that you are the victim of elder abuse or you are concerned about a senior, ask these questions:

1. Do you share personal and/or financial information with strangers?

2. Have you agreed to accept personal care from someone in exchange for property or possessions without first discussing it with a lawyer?

3. Has someone taken something from you and refused to give it back?

4. Is someone preventing you from having contact with friends or family?

5. Are you afraid to speak up because someone threatens or yells at you?

6. Does anyone slap, kick, or restrain you in any way?

7. Do you see and talk to the friends and family that you want?

8. Do you get requests for money by email, text, or phone? Age is a number, abuse is a crime. Let’s stand against elder abuse.

For further information or to set up a consultation with Rachel King, please call or text 951-834-7715. Rachel King is a strategic litigator with expertise in elder abuse, and conservatorships and has extensive courtroom experience. She has been featured in LA Weekly, CEO Weekly, and SD Voyager. Ms. King has appearances on CBS and is featured regularly on podcasts around the world .| www.thelawyerking.com

DISCLAIMER: The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the various author’s articles on this Opinion piece or elsewhere online or in the newspaper where we have articles with the header “COLUMN/EDITORIAL & OPINION” do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints or official policies of the Publisher, Editor, Reporters or anybody else in the Staff of the Hemet and San Jacinto Chronicle Newspaper.

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Seems that no matter how much we sweep, mop and scrub, the Valley just keeps getting dirtier every year. You guessed it. It is clean-up time again in the valley. The Interfaith Council will be out there in full force and ready for action as they always are. Last year’s cleanup was outstanding with more than 8 tons of trash and junk removed from our streets and neighborhoods. Were you part of the clean-up crew? Feeling a little bit guilty? You can make up for your negligence this year by joining in with all of those volunteers.

This year the Council hopes to bring out 500 volunteers. The event is somewhat like an all day neighborhood party. Everyone will gather at 7 AM on September 23rd at 1151 Park Avenue in San Jacinto (The Church of the Latter Day Saints) where site assignments will be distributed.

Breakfast will be served by the Kiwanis and Exchange Club before any clean-up begins. All participants will be treated to a BBQ from 11:am until noon. The work involves cleaning up fields, yards and homes in our valley. You might know an elderly or handicapped person who needs some yard work done.

Please bring WATER, a hat and work gloves and tools, if you have them, including hoes, shovels, rakes and other gardening tools, etc. For more information or registration call 951-384-591.

THE MISSION STATEMENT FOR THE INTERFAITH COUNCIL IS:

1. To honor and respect all faiths, cultures, creeds and races and races; Seek to learn from those who believe equal opportunity and human rights belong to every person.

2. Build and sustain bridges of understanding, respect and appreciation in our multi faiths and religions.

3. Serve the needs of the San Jacinto Valley.

4. To promote faith in a higher power and unity in our community.

Come on out. You probably need the exercise. Also, it will give you an opportunity to mingle and learn and make new friends.

Just sayin’

rustystrait@gmail.com

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The second annual Ramona Courtyard Christmas will be held Dec. 9 and 10 from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Ramona Bowl in Hemet. Along with some favorite activities and performances from last year, there will be several exciting new ones. Visitors can look forward to vendors selling all sorts of items, including lots of Christmas gift ideas. There will be live entertainment and music, as well as Christmas carolers, Santa Claus, the Grinch, crafts for kids, a Christmas tree lighting, holiday treats, beer/wine and holiday sangria and more.

Debradawn Shockey is chairing the Centennial Celebration Committee working to promote the upcoming 100th season of “Ramona,” California’s official outdoor play and is excited to be part of the holiday celebration. “This year we have included mingling live Dickens characters, Christmas trees available to decorate and donate to needy families with a further opportunity to support the community by offering one free admission ticket for that evening’s event to anyone donating an unwrapped gift for My City Youth,” she said. “We have licensed concessions professionals serving up yummy goodies.

They are led by Ramona’s own very skilled Kelli Carter, whose years of devotion to the Ramona Bowl have been unwavering.” The idea for the event was proposed last holiday season by board members Kami Martin and Norm Kyriss, who offered to head up a Christmas event to utilize the recently renovated courtyard at the Ramona Bowl. Shockey had recently joined the Ramona advisory board and was excited to assist her best friend Kami Martin. The pair had formed the Harvard Street Theatre Company at the Diamond Valley Arts Center in 2019. “Part of the mission of the Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre is to ‘contribute to tourism and continuing educational programs through quality outdoor theater entertainment,’” Shockey explained. “Kami and I are two of the few volunteers on the boards at Ramona with a background in the theater, and as we have our own company of performers, the idea of giving them the chance to shine at Ramona during the holidays was thrilling.”

Preparations for the Christmas festivities began as soon as the Boo at the Bowl Halloween event ended. All involved in the decorating, organizing and directing, as well as cleaning up are volunteers, which number about 50. The board of directors are also involved. They are president Norm Kyriss, vice president Elena Kern, treasurer Vince Record, secretary Kami Martin and members Linda Krupa, Joe Grindstaff and Larry Salas. “Their dedication to all things Ramona is remarkable and inspiring,” Shockey said. “Many volunteers have started the task of laying out the hundreds of strands of Christmas lights and placing every piece of decor, including, crazy enough, three and a half foot, white peacocks!” Longtime “Ramona” supporter and board member Lori VanArsdale said all of the incredible Christmas decorations were donated by Rick Crimeni’s daughters after he passed away when he was on the Bowl’s board.

Rick owned the Arrangement Gallery for years and VanArsdale said he used to decorate Hoag Hospital in Orange County for Christmas and also did a lot at Pechanga. “Rick had always wanted to do something for Christmas at the Bowl and I know he would be very pleased with what is going on with the Ramona Courtyard Christmas event,” she said. “When his daughters, Marissa and Brianna, asked me if the Bowl would like to have the decorations I was blown away when they opened the door to a 15-ft. x 30-ft. storage facility filled to the brim with all of the amazing decorations you will see in the Courtyard.” Any event at the Ramona Bowl wouldn’t be complete without an appearance from some of the play’s key characters.

Visitors to the Christmas celebration can expect to see Señora (Kathi Anderson) as well as Ramona (Kayla Contreras) and Alessandro (Eli Santana). Aunt Ry, who is being played by Shockey in the upcoming centennial season, will also be there. Shockey began auditioning for Ramona in 2006, the year she played Margarita, Ramona’s flirtatious rival. The following year, she was the understudy for the title role. In 2008, she played Ramona and in 2010, she was cast as Margarita once again. “That was back before the play got a facelift and rewrite by Stephen Savage in 2015 in an effort to reword some of the archaic language,” she said. “That was also the year they hired my husband, Steve Shockey, and his Civil War reenactment unit, the Washington Artillery, to bring their giant cannon as part of a brief war scene to kick off the show with a serious boom!” Shockey’s favorite part of last year’s event, that she looks forward to being recreated this season, was when artistic director Dennis Anderson spoke of the magnificence of both Ramona, the longest-running outdoor play in America, and the tradition of steadfast devotion to its preservation by generations of people.

“Then, as the giant Christmas tree in the center of the courtyard overlooking the spectacular view of the valley was lit, Madeline Marlene began to play her flute, filling the Bowl with a seemingly sacred song of the people represented in our timeless play,” she said. “It’s truly a magical moment.” Tickets are $4 each or free with an unwrapped gift donation for My City Youth. Children 5 and younger are free. Parking is $5. For more information, 951-658-3111 or www.RamonaBowl.com.

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