Centered around the theme, “One Flag, One Nation, One Community,” the event brought together local residents, businesses, and city representatives to honor those who demonstrate exceptional respect and pride in displaying the American flag.

Flag Day commemorates the adoption of the United States flag on June 14, 1777, when the Second Continental Congress approved the design of a national flag. The observance was officially established in 1916 and later recognized by Congress in 1949 as a day to celebrate the history and symbolism of the flag as a representation of freedom, unity, and national identity.

A highlight of the ceremony was a formal 13-fold Flag Recital, a time-honored tradition that reflects the symbolic meaning behind each fold of the United States flag. The recital served as a powerful reminder of the values, sacrifices, and unity the flag represents.

Awards were presented to businesses, community members, and cities that have shown outstanding dedication in their display of the U.S. flag, helping to foster a sense of patriotism throughout the San Jacinto Valley and surrounding communities.

The event was led by Post Commander Lester Fountain, with significant support from 1st Vice Commander Joel Ortiz, who helped organize the program. 3rd Vice Commander Jamie Swan added to the celebratory atmosphere by serving as the event’s DJ.

The gathering was made possible in part through the support of the Lamas Housing Project, reinforcing the collaborative spirit that defined the day.

Attendees enjoyed a meaningful and uplifting ceremony that not only honored the nation’s flag but also strengthened community bonds. Events like this continue to highlight the important role local organizations play in preserving traditions and bringing people together.

For many in attendance, the message of the day was clear: the American flag remains a powerful symbol of unity, pride, and shared identity.

The post San Jacinto Honors Flag Day with Community Celebration and Recognition Awards appeared first on The Hemet & San Jacinto Chronicle.

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 Shuullaw 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 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.

The post Children celebrate parents at Soboba appeared first on The Hemet & San Jacinto Chronicle.

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.

The post Kindergartners graduate from Soboba Tribal Preschool appeared first on The Hemet & San Jacinto Chronicle.

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.

The post Hemet Mom’s Adventure Club Brings Families Together for Memorable Memorial Day Campout appeared first on The Hemet & San Jacinto Chronicle.

“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.

The post Soboba hosts its 20th Earth Day event appeared first on The Hemet & San Jacinto Chronicle.

    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.

The post Hemet Harmoneers Chorale to Present ‘Hope in a Calling’ Spring Concert appeared first on The Hemet & San Jacinto Chronicle.

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.

The post Big Smiles and Big Catches at Free Kids Fishing Tournament appeared first on The Hemet & San Jacinto Chronicle.

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

The post Elevators, a Horse & Easter? appeared first on The Hemet & San Jacinto Chronicle.

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.

The post Girl Scouts start another year of cookie sales in the Inland Empire appeared first on The Hemet & San Jacinto Chronicle.

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.

The post Celebrating Visionaries: A community’s tribute to passionate leaders appeared first on The Hemet & San Jacinto Chronicle.