Originally established as a mineral hot springs destination in the early 1900s, the resort—also known as Massacre Canyon Inn (MCI)—was part of what was once referred to as Southern California’s “health belt,” drawing visitors from across the region to experience the reputed healing properties of the springs. In the 1920s, the Gilman family expanded the property into a prominent resort featuring a 27-hole golf course, horse stables, tennis courts and a range of recreational amenities.

By the late 1960s, the resort started a boxing training camp that attracted both rising talent and some of the most recognized names in the sport.

This past week, Golden Era Productions welcomed back former boxer Lester Smith, who trained at the Gilman Resort from 1968 to 1970 during the early years of his middleweight career. Introduced to boxing by his stepfather, Stan Russell, Smith began his journey at the Gilman training camp, which featured extensive facilities including a boxing ring, steam baths, exercise equipment, running trails through the foothills, guest cottages and a full-service dining room complete with a bar and coffee shop.

Smith recalled the demanding daily routine of the fighters: rising at daybreak for a six-mile run, followed by intensive training in the ring throughout the day. He also remembered the presence of notable figures in the sport, including Ken Norton, George Foreman, Sonny Liston, and brothers Mike Quarry and Jerry Quarry. Smith noted that he narrowly missed meeting Muhammad Ali, who visited the camp while Smith was away in Las Vegas.

Weekend visitors included renowned sports broadcaster Howard Cosell, who interviewed fighters ahead of major bouts. Smith also recalled that the masseuse for boxing legend Joe Louis was available at the steam baths following rigorous training sessions.

Motivated by a desire to revisit the place where his boxing career began, Smith returned to the property—now extensively renovated and transformed into a modern, international production facility where audiovisual content is created for the Churches of Scientology. His visit highlights the continuity of the site, which has evolved from a destination for health and athletic training into a center for creative production.

During his tour, Smith was shown the location of the original boxing ring, now repurposed as a Foreign Recording Studio in the Audio Building. He immediately recognized the area, recalling its proximity to the foothills. He also revisited the former MCI dining room, expressing admiration for its updated design and décor.

The visit concluded with lunch at the property’s historic Tavern, which retains its original name. Reflecting on the experience, Smith remarked, “How fortunate the staff are to live and work at Golden Era.”

A representative of Golden Era Productions said visits such as Smith’s serve as a meaningful reminder of the property’s legacy. “It is always special to welcome back individuals who were part of this location’s history and to share how the site has been preserved and repurposed for a new era,” the representative said.

Both Smith and his guest expressed appreciation not only for the beauty of the facilities, but also for the warmth and hospitality extended by the staff.

The post Former Boxer Returns to Historic Gilman Hot Springs Resort, Once a Hub for 1960-70s Boxing Training Camps appeared first on The Hemet & San Jacinto Chronicle.

San Jacinto, CA — On November 11, 2024, the City of San Jacinto and Golden Era Productions hosted a memorable Veterans Day ceremony to honor those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. The event, held at the Golden Era Golf Course brought the community together to pay tribute to our nation’s veterans with a series of powerful performances and tributes bringing the true meaning of Veterans Day.

“A Truly meaningful ceremony”, said Lester Fountain, Chaplain of the San Jacinto American Legion.

The MC was Henry Sawicki Riverside Sheriff’s Dept retired who carried the event through.

The ceremony kicked off with an amazing aerobatic flyover by Dave Mundwiler that had the crowd on their feet cheering. On the heels of this the Hemet Mounted Posse came across the golf course presenting the colors, setting a respectful tone for the day. As the colors were carried up to the clubhouse, a moving rendition of Scotland the Brave played on the bagpipes, welcoming attendees to the event.

Following the beautiful and meaningful invocation by Deacon Virgal Wolfolk  (who flew out from Missouri especially for this event), the San Jacinto Valley Academy High School Choir captivated the crowd with a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem, setting the stage for a day of reflection and gratitude.

The ceremony included a rifle exhibition by the award-winning San Jacinto High School R.O.T.C. Their precision and skill demonstrated the discipline and dedication that is instilled in young service members today.

The Hemet High School Jazz Band then performed an impressive medley of military themes, evoking memories of each branch of the military. Their performance added a sense of pride and patriotism to the ceremony, bringing the audience to their feet in appreciation.

“We are incredibly proud to honor our veterans today and every day,” said Mayor Phil Ayala of the City of San Jacinto. “The performances and tributes were a beautiful representation of the dedication, talent, and respect that our community has for the brave men and women who have served.”

Virginia Blumenthal, a distinguished attorney named one of the Top 100 Lawyers in the U.S., served as one of the ceremony’s keynote speakers. Blumenthal, whose family has a long history of military service, shared personal stories of her relatives who served in the Armed Forces. She spoke poignantly about what it meant to her, personally, to be part of a family that has dedicated itself to defending freedom. Her emotional speech resonated with all in attendance, reminding the audience of the deep, personal connections veterans and their families share with our nation’s history.

Judge Mark Johnson, a veteran himself and recent author of the book “Scars and Strife”, also spoke at the ceremony. Johnson’s speech was a raw and honest account of the challenges veterans face, not only during their service but also as they return home. His reflections of those trials have on both veterans and their families, were met with deep respect and understanding from the crowd.  Judge Johnson emphasized he was so pleased to see so many youths at the ceremony as they are the future, they carry the torch.

The ceremony also included a special address by San Jacinto Mayor Phil Ayala, who spoke to the often-overlooked sacrifices made by the spouses of veterans. Mayor Ayala recognized the incredible strength and resilience of military spouses, many of whom silently endure the hardships that come with having a loved one in service. In a moving tribute, the Mayor honored 11 local veterans’ spouses for their unwavering support. These men and women were recognized not only by the City of San Jacinto but also by officials from the, the California State Assembly and State Senate. In attendance were the Mayor of San Jacinto Phil Ayala, The Mayor of Hemet Joe Males, San Jacinto Mayor Pro Tem Valerie Vanderver, City Council woman Crystal Ruiz, Representative William Boyd from California State Senator Bough, Representative Misael Tovar-Diaz from California State Assembly Cory Jackson.  

The ceremony concluded with the bagpipe playing Amazing Grace and the playing of Taps while the Riderless Horse walked across the golf course.

“It was truly an honor to bring our community together to celebrate the service of our veterans and their families,” said Lester Fountain Chaplain of the San Jacinto American Legion “The ceremony was a powerful reminder of the sacrifices that go beyond the uniform—the sacrifices made by families, friends, and the loved ones who support our heroes every day.”

The event, attended by local veterans, their families, and community members, featured a series of heartfelt speeches, musical tributes, and performances by local student groups, culminating in a powerful display of unity and respect for the men and women who have served. 

For media inquiries or more information about future events, please contact:

Golden Era Golf Course
951-654-0130

The post Veterans Day Ceremony Honors Service Members, Veterans’ Families, and Community Support appeared first on The Hemet & San Jacinto Chronicle.

There is a long history of women serving our country. American women have served their country going back to the Revolutionary war where women like Deborah Simpson disguised themselves as men and engaged in combat.  Other women have supported war efforts through nursing and other essential services which have carried on until this day. The ban on women in combat roles was lifted in 2013 which is a testament to the valor and competence of women who have been serving under fire since America’s earliest conflicts.

The Master of Ceremonies was Virginia Blumenthal and her Co-MC was the Honorable Mark Johnson.

Virginia is a strong supporter of Veterans and an advocate for women.  She is also one of the top 100 trial attorneys in the United States. Virginia serves on a number of prestigious boards in Riverside County yet she made time to honor these amazing women.    

Honorable Mark Johnson is a highly decorated Colonel of the United States Army who retired after 28 years of military service. He became a Superior Court Judge and presided over the Riverside County Veterans Court which he helped develop.  He is now the author of the newly released book, “Scars and Strife”. Virginia said, “I made Mark give me a pre-release copy of the book and I can tell you it is good!”

The opening remarks of the ceremony by Virginia was, “… we are here today honoring the military women and civilian supporters whose invaluable contributions have shaped our nation’s military history and today, it is an amazing list of women being honored. “

Reverend Jannet Guzman from the Loma Linda Veteran Affairs opened the event with an invocation followed by the Patriot Guards riding in on their motorcycles presented the colors.   Linda Greilich of Golden Era Productions sang the National Anthem. Together they created a reaction a rousing applause from the audience.

The first honoree was Theresa Seaton.  Theresa served in the Army Air Corps was 1949 to 1954. She is a member of the Soboba Band of Luiseno Indians and has been a cast member of the Ramona Pageant since 1940.   She has just celebrated her 94^th birthday.

The second honoree was Barbara Barron.   Barbara a retired Army Veteran of 26 years.  She was the President of the Federal Employee Women Adelphi Chapter in Maryland.

Dr. Stephanie Bruce was the third honoree.  She served in the Army for over 7 years which included Operation Desert Storm and Operation Desert Shield. She went on to create a non-profit, Black Voices of the Valley of which she is the Executive Director.

Martha Sylvia Zaragoza the fourth honoree gives more than 70 hours a week to service veterans. She is a daughter of a WWII Veteran, a member of the American Legion Auxiliary and the Patriot Guards.  She along with the Patriot Guards attend funeral services every Wednesday morning at the Riverside National Cemetery for our military heroes who have no families.

The fifth honoree was Ramonita Cruz who was a Marine deployed 3 times to Iraq and Afghanistan.  Since 2018 she has worked for the Riverside County Veterans Services to assist Veterans and their families.

Jackie Wayman the sixth honoree served in the U.S Army in Vietnam. While she may not have served in combat, she was posted as the Colonels driver and bodyguard. The Colonel is quoted as saying, “You don’t need to be afraid of me, you need to be afraid of her.” She is now the President of OC Cultural Pride and an advocate for Military women in pursuit of holistic healing.

The last but not least honoree was Arlene Jackson. She is the founder and the CEO of Restoring Hope Community Services in Perris and for more than 16 years has been caring for Veterans.  She created a 14 bed shelter for homeless Veterans on her own and if you ask anyone who knows her will tell you she is unstoppable.  

The honorees were personally handed certificates and acknowledged by:  Hemet City Councilwoman, Linda Krupa; State Senator Roth’s office Representative, Altie Holcomb; State Senator Ochoa Bogh’s Office Representative, William Boyd; Delida Jaafar, the President of Hemet Rotary and Michael McGuinness of Veterans Circle of Friends.

In addition certificates were sent in and presented from U.S. Senator Alex Padilla, Congressman Raul Ruiz, Congressman Mark Takano, County Supervisor Yxtian Gutierrez and the City of San Jacinto.

Jackie Wayman said, “I am so happy I am going to tell my family all about this because no one has ever done this before. I have never been acknowledged before.”

Theresa Seaton had tears in her eyes and said, “I had such a wonderful time and I hope I can sleep after this.”

Ramonita Cruz’ daughter was in the audience beaming with pride when her mother was honored.  

At the end of the ceremony Martha Sylvia Zaragoza went around to each honoree giving them a special beaded keep sake to personally thank them.

Overall, the reaction from the audience (which included men and women veterans) was a stirring of pride as all these Veterans felt truly acknowledged for having served to keep our country free.

The post Honoring Veteran Women and Women Championing Veterans  appeared first on The Hemet & San Jacinto Chronicle.

The world seems to have suddenly awakened to the fact that we are in a proxy war with Russia. President Zelensky of Ukraine, in trying to save his own country, has been the front runner to alert us that we might be next. Because of his courage and leadership, he is, without doubt the most popular man in the free world. His refusal to bow down to a ruthless Dictator has garnered him more laurels than any man in the modern world. While he is the buffer in a proxy war between Russia and the United States, we do our best to help.

That brings me to a local contribution that might have gone unnoticed if it weren’t for nosy reporters like yours truly.

I discovered that Golden Era Productions (as always, has pitched in to help out with the situation. They have donated a total of 122 boxes of some very nice clothing articles for Ukrainian Refugees in California and Europe.

Thirty-one boxes were donated to the Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Los Angeles for the thousands of Ukrainian refugees that are crowding across the border at Tijuana.

Father Vasilos Basille Saucuir tells us that there are so many refugees that are attempting to cross into the United States from Tijuana, that the city has donated a building to temporarily house them while the wait to be processed to enter, which can often take several days.

The good Father Vasilos is also working with other Orthodox churches in the Los Angeles area to arrange temporary housing and to have their basic needs taken care of.

Muriel Dufresne, Community Affairs Director for Golden Era Productions, tells me that it is an ongoing work on their part. Recently another 91 boxes of clothing was stored in a Culver City warehouse for shipment next week to Ukraine.

It never ceases to amaze me when something needs to be done, it is usually the same volunteers who step up to do the work.

The San Jacinto Valley is teaming with volunteers for various causes. However, Golden Era can be counted on in every instance.

We reporters also read the papers and watch the news. I was more than a little bit amazed when I heard on the radio that Israel is hesitating to put forth much effort to help Ukrainians because they “don’t want to upset Russia.” I would have thought that the Israelis more than anyone else would have empathy for them. Hard to tell about governments. They do not always reflect the will of the people.

We do our part and that counts for a lot. Just sayin.

rustystrait@gmail.com

Find your latest news here at the Hemet & San Jacinto Chronicle

The post PUTIN SIZZLES, UKRAINE SUFFERS, WE COME THROUGH appeared first on The Hemet & San Jacinto Chronicle.

The event was a sell-out, with more than 130 golfers on hand, along with several local politicos and other community representatives on hand. Included among them: Isaiah Vivanco, Tribal Chairman from Soboba Reservation, County Supervisor Chuck Washington’s representative, Sarah Rodriguez, Hemet City Councilman Russ Brown, and Sharon Durban from the San Jacinto Chamber of Commerce representing the City of San Jacinto.

Linda Rogers, Executive Director of Valley Restart for the past 18 years, retired last month and was honored at the event with certificates of recognition for her long-time dedication to Valley Restart and its work. Over that period, she has helped raise thousands of families and individuals out of homelessness and poverty back into successful lives.

During the fiscal year of July 2019 – June 2020, the Shelter assisted 219 people find homes; 38 of them were families consisting of 82 children and 47 parents. Abodes for 44 single males and 46 single males were also helped off the streets into homes.

Always ready to pitch in were the faith-based and service groups plus families with a passion for cooking and serving others. More than 38,000 meals were served at the Shelter during the past period.

The Homeless Navigation and Outreach team reached out to 150 homeless souls who were roaming the valley’s streets, engaging 113 of them with services, thus ensuring permanent placement for more than an additional 50. Third District County Supervisor Washington stated that Valley Restart had been a viable and integral part of the San Jacinto Valley for a long time, having assisted individuals, as well as families, achieve independence and economic stability. Although not specifically pointed out, it is well understood that the COVID syndrome threw a monkey wrench into all plans to progress during a period of time due to the economic impact brought about by the virus.

While others might be distracted by local and international struggles due to the dread pandemic, Brian Hawkins, San Jacinto City Councilman was forth worth in his comment that “Valley Restart is the only place willing to give shelter to a problem, most people look the other way.”

Lt. Eric Dickson of the Hemet Police Department, always on hand when help is needed, opined that “…over the last 20 years…it is impossible to put a price tag on the value they provide..” referring specifically to Valley Restart Shelter.

Restart’s newly appointed director, succeeding Linda Rogers, Javier Lopez, added, “I am extremely humbled and excited to be joining an organization with a long history of serving homeless families in Hemet and surrounding communities.” Javier is not a newcomer when it comes to assailing the homeless situation. He previously directed Community Relations and Engagement at the Coachella Valley Housing Coalition in the City of Indio, California, with a long and successful background with non-profit organizations.

If you might want to be a resident (or newcomer) in our area and would like to contribute financially or otherwise support the work of Valley Restart, you will be welcomed with open arms. You can check in online at valleyrestart.info. More than 77 sponsors for this event, including businessmen and women who set up on the tees, all of whom were volunteering everything that was accomplished during the day.

Valley Restart and Soboba Golf Course wish to extend thanks to the event committee with warmth and sincere appreciation:

Ted DeBolt – Board President

John Bunge – Board Vice-President

Pastor Bill Wolfson – Board Member

Winston Greene – Board Member

Rick Brown – Advisory Board

Linda Rogers – Executive Director Retired

Javier Lopez – Executive Director

Connie DeBolt – Event co-Chair

Muriel Dufresne – Golden Era Productions – Event Co-Chair

Amazing just how many unsung heroes there are in the San Jacinto Valley. It makes you wonder why so many “mouths” do nothing for the homeless other than complain that they exist.

Just sayin’ rustystrait@gmail.com

Rusty Strait Senior Reporter

Find your latest news here at the Hemet & San Jacinto Chronicle

The post ALWAYS WILLING TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE COMMUNITY appeared first on The Hemet & San Jacinto Chronicle.

Golden Era Productions once again threw out a life-line to an organization that helps the homeless toward a second start when they find themselves homeless and without employment.

Valley Restart was well represented at the occasion by friends and supporters. Mayor Bonnie Wright made that valid point when he said, “It was apparent by the number of sponsors and those in attendance at the second annual event that Valley Restart has a significant number of supporters who understand its importance to our community. Together, we can make a difference.

The Star of California replica clipper ship at Golden Era Productions was the site of the benefit of the dinner and auction. The Clipper ship is not just some carpenter’s idea of a ship, but is modeled after an 1800’s clipper ship and is docked in a Polynesian setting that can only be described as Paradise. She is 16 feet and 50 feet broad. She sports a mahogany deckhouse and redwood deck and is a standard square-rigged, three-masted ship with the main mast extending 50 feet into the sky. With space for only 200 passengers aboard upper and lower decks – all chairs were occupied.

Golden Era has a cadre of musicians that are equal to any in the country and would have been among the top bands had they existed in the big band era. That night they were graced by the Broadway voice of Gio Yepremian. Gio brought the crowd to their feet and she certainly deserved the applause. There was even a surprise performance by Hemet Mayor Bonnie Wright and Mayor: pro tem Russ Brown to support Valley Restart.

This year gave forth some wonderful silent and live auction items such as:

• Basketball autographed by al the 2018/2019 Lakers team.

• One night and dinner for two the Queen Mary in Long Beach Harbor.

• A jersey signed by Lakers forward Kyle Kuzma in his second season with the Lakers who is a sure rising star.

• A stay at the luxurious Soboba Hotel/Casino complex with other amenities.

• Four tickets to one regular-season Lakers game in the inner ring of Staples Center in Los Angeles.

• Two tickets to a regular-season Warriors game at their new stadium in Downtown. 

• San Francisco’s Chase Center, which included a private suite with food and drinks.

The grand prize drawing was a four-hour cruise aboard the luxury boat La Belle Bella Vita for six lucky passengers was won by Tommy Walters who was once homeless himself and is a successful graduate from the Valley Restart Shelter program and now volunteers there. He said, “I owe my life to Valley Restart.” 

Vice President of Valley Restart, Pastor John Bunge had the honor of presenting Certificates of Recognition to Krystyne and George Gray. The Grays have been dedicated to changing the homeless situation in our Valley and give much of their time and effort over the years to Valley Restart and also other organizations in the Valley such as the Interfaith Council and their own Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. They received Certificates of Recognition from Congressman Raul Ruiz, State Senator Mike Morrell, State Assemblyman Chad Mayes, County Supervisor Chuck Washington and from the cities of San Jacinto and Hemet.

This was a great opportunity for the public to participate in helping those who found themselves in less fortunate situations. The Valley Restart caters mostly to families. The primary purpose of the shelter is to “Help the Homeless Who Want to Help Themselves.” In 2018 they were rightly proud to announce a 98% success rate in assisting people in restarting their lives and find permanent housing and employment.

Last year they provided shelter to 266 folks which included 53 families and a total of 132 children. The Navigation Program, which has been in operation for a year, was funded by the City of Hemet. It consists of scouring the streets in search of the homeless who need a helping hand and getting them housed and off the streets. There have been over 133 contacts, and 44 homeless haven’t provided housing.

The Executive Director of the Valley Restart stated that, “It continues to amaze me the support for Valley Restart from the community that is evident from events like this one. There is so much that we are now able to offer, and our community support continues to grow.”

All that went down on that wonderful night of opening hearts and purses is an example of what can be accomplished when the whole community is involved. Homelessness is not the real tragedy, only being forced by circumstances is. Valley Restart and the San Jacinto Valley is demonstrating what can be done.

On a personal note: This columnist noticed the Reverend James Hall sitting quietly at a corner tabled without notice or fanfare. Jim Hall was head of Valley Restart for a long time and held it together when a lesser man might have given up. We applaud him.

This is not the only time Golden Era Productions have offered their facilities, members and assets to the Valley. They have always been there for non-profit and municipal organizations when a helping hand is needed. The Hemet/San Jacinto Chronicle salutes you and all you do to make this a better valley. Just sayin’

rustystrait@gmail.com.

Find your latest news here at the Hemet & San Jacinto Chronicle

Search: Golden era productions

The post Golden era productions once again proves to be a good neighbor appeared first on The Hemet & San Jacinto Chronicle.