Let's Celebrate our Freedom

The City of Menifee and Lake Menifee Women's Club would like to invite you to their Annual Independence Day Celebration! Bring the family on over to Wheatfield park on June 25th from 5:00pm-9:00pm and enjoy the parade, fun zone, craft booths, DJ, demonstrations, and of course...a firework finale! The festivities will begin with the parade starting at 5:00pm along Menifee Road and La Piedra. Don't forget your sunscreen!

Police To Conduct DUI Checkpoint in Menifee This Friday Evening

The Menifee Police Department will be conducting a DUI/Drivers License checkpoint on June 3, 2011 at an undisclosed location within the city limits between the hours of 6:00 p.m to 2:00 a.m, according to a press release issued today.

Is Your Advisor a Yes Man?

Royal American Financial Advisors, LLC, based here in Menifee, brings another weekly video on investing your money.

"Is Your Advisor a Yes Man?" Hopefully you know that it is better for you that you have advisors that are not yes men, and that have the courage to tell you what you need to hear on certain occasions.



John Borger and Scott Buchanan of Royal American Financial Advisors, LLC provide investor education to help investors avoid costly and unnecessary mistakes, increase their potential returns, and take a more prudent approach to investing and growing their wealth.

You may contact them at (951) 679-2065, or check out their website at: http://www.myinvestmentcoach.com/

Book Buy Back Season at Mt San Jacinto College

It is that time of the year again! The time where the school semester is over and the Mt. San Jacinto College Book Store is buying back your books! Now, most people find this to be a lose-lose situation. The people who are aware of this opportunity know that the book store only gives you 50% or less back on the original price of the book. Many students tend to sell them back to get make a little bit of money back or to get rid of the clutter on their desks. Well, I have another alternative to the solution!

When the semester is over, try to compare the prices of what you will get back at the book store versus what you could get on Half.com or Amazon.com. In order to do this you will need the book store website for your campus, this is the link to the Menifee campus: http://eagleshop.msjc.edu/msjcme/

...and this is the link to the San Jacinto Book store: http://eagleshop.msjc.edu/msjcc/.

The book store will be buying back books the last few weeks of May into the beginning of June. Now, I know that I have bought a book that was well over $100 and would be able to sell it back for $50-75. It was a bummer, but hey, at least I got some money back right? Well, now you may be able to earn the exact amount or more! I sell most if not all my school books on Amazon. Granted, most of the books do not get bought until the new semester starts, but I earn a profit or break even. I have never once earned under what I had originally bought the book fro at the book store.

Some supplies you will need to do this would be an Amazon or Half.com account which you will link to a PayPal account which in return in linked to your bank account. PayPal will enable you to receive your money where you can transfer the money you earn into your bank account. Amazon, PayPal and Half.com accounts are FREE, they will never charge you to open an account or maintain it. Amazon will take a percentage of your profits from books you sell, but it is usually minuscule unless you sold a book for $200, they will take roughly $12 of your profit. Secondly, you will need to stock up on Bubble Mailers and Priority Mailers so you have something to ship your books as they give you two options to ship. Lastly, you will need packing tape (preferably the clear kind) and scissors.

There are two great features to Amazon and PayPal that I highly recommend you use. They can print shipping labels and receipts. Of course, they charge you for it but you can print it directly from your home without having to go out and wait in that long line at the Post office. The charges will come directly out of your bank account that you have linked directly to PayPal or Amazon, whichever label feature you decide to use—they both work. They produce a label you cut out which you tape to the Bubble Mailer or Priority Mailer which has a bar code. DO NOT TAPE OR CUT OFF THE BAR CODE, the Post Office uses the bar code to scan the item so they may ship it. A scale is recommended but not necessary if you can estimate the weight. PayPal also generates a tracking code you will enter when someone buys your book. You will need to play around with Amazon and PayPal to get the hang of the process.

All in all, it is a very simple process. You will earn more at the convenience of your own home. You can also buy books on Amazon and Half.com or rent at Chegg, and of course the Book store. You can also use Craigslist but be wary meeting strangers. There is nothing wrong with selling your books to the book store or buying from the book store either. I just wanted to give you an alternative to saving money as well as earning your money back. I use it a lot and have had a ton of success! You will too!

Summer Reading Program at Sun City Library Begins Saturday June 11, 2011

It’s that special time of year again, summer! Bring your children, grandchildren, friends, neighbors, and yourself to the Sun City Library's eight week summer reading club. This year the library has over 100 programs for every age group and a reading incentive program that will blow you away.

The Summer Reading Club kicks off on Saturday, June 11th at 10:00 am with the incredible Scott Land and his marionettes. Get a look into his world and see just how this beautiful art form is created. Next join the I.B.M. Magicians as they wow you with their tricks and trades at 12:00 pm. These events fill up quick so please arrive early. Free tickets will be handed out at 9:00 am.

For a full list of events...

Kids & Teens:
http://suncitylibrary.files.wordpress.com/2011/02/src-2011-calendar-of-events-child-teen.pdf

Summer Art Classes:
http://suncitylibrary.files.wordpress.com/2011/02/artclass1.pdf

Movies for Adults:
http://suncitylibrary.files.wordpress.com/2011/02/adult-movies.pdf

Event is open to the public. The Sun City Library is located at 26982 Cherry Hills Blvd. (cross street is Bradley). For more information, call 951-679-3534 or visit us online at www.suncitylibrary.wordpress.com.

Power Outage in Menifee Lakes Tonight

The City of Menifee reports that Southern California Edison must turnoff power in the section of the City bound by Newport Road to the North, Menifee Road to the east, La Piedra to the south and Antelope to the west, which comprises the Menifee Lakes community.

The outage will not affect the Community College.

The outage will extend from 5:00 PM until midnight tonight.

The outage is necessary to avoid a dangerous condition, which the city's official announcement did not clarify.

Newport going west will be reduced to one lane. Eastbound Newport will not be affected.

Shavuot Service Scheduled at Temple Beth Sholom in Sun City

Shavuot Evening Service, Discussion and Dairy Dessert Buffet

Tuesday, June 7 7:30p
at Temple Beth Sholom of Sun City CA, 29101 Del Monte Drive Menifee CA 92586

Tikun Le'il (study session). Following a short holiday service, we will read and discuss the "Book of Ruth" - the story of Ruth, the Moabite widow, her Jewish mother-in-law Naomi, and the well-to-do farmer, Boaz, who by marrying Ruth and producing a son, begin the ancestral line of the King David.

Shavuot Festival Service, Discussion and Dairy Dessert Buffet

Tuesday, June 8 at 9:45am at
Temple Beth Sholom of Sun City CA 29101Del Monte Drive, Menifee CA 92586

Shavuot holiday service, discussion regarding the giving of the Ten Commandments, Torah Commentary, Yizkor service and buffet dairy luncheon.

Both services are open to the Jewish Community at no charge. Donations are appreciated.

Texas Roadhouse Grill Coming to Menifee This Fall

Texas Roadhouse Grill, a Texas-style steakhouse and barbecue, with 340 locations in 46 states, has plans to open a restaurant here in Menifee.

Last night, the Planning Commission voted unanimously to approve the plans.

The restaurant is eyeing a location on Haun Road, within the Newport Hub area, next door to Yellow Basket. It will be the company's first location in Southern California. The 6,995 sq ft, full service, sit down restaurant will also include a lounge.


"We've been hearing that residents in Menifee have been wanting a steakhouse for a very long time, and we're going to bring it to them", says Paul Koren, general manager of the new restaurant. "And our prices are very affordable, that's something Texas Roadhouse is known for."

Construction is expected to begin July 1, 2011, and the company expects to be completed within 120 days, just in time for Thanksgiving. Total cost of the project is expected to be around $4 million, and will employ nearly 200 people.

Hours of operation will run 4:00pm to 10:00pm Monday through Friday, and 11:00am to 11:00pm Saturday, and 11:00am to 10:00pm Sunday.

The project still needs approval from the City Council which is expected the hear the item in June.

You can learn more about Texas Roadhouse Grill at its website: http://www.texasroadhouse.com/

Android Class at Menifee Verizon Wireless this Sunday, May 29

This Sunday from 8:00AM to 10:00AM there will be an Android Basic Workshop for owners of Android-based smartphones. The two hour class will cover topics such as preserving battery life, device security, featured apps, utilizing your phone, and managing your usage.

It will be held at the Verizon Wireless Communications Store in Menifee (30098 Haun Rd, Menifee, CA 92584), inside the Countryside Marketplace, next to Hana Sushi.

Here’s a link to this information: https://vzwworkshops.wds.vzw.com/vzwworkshops/topics.jsp?zc=&city=92584.

The Dark Side of Investing

Royal American Financial Advisors, LLC, based here in Menifee, brings another weekly video on investing your money.

"The Dark Side of Investing" is a humorous look at the information overload we get as investors from the media. This is why it is so important to know that you don't need to know everything if you know the right things...



John Borger and Scott Buchanan of Royal American Financial Advisors, LLC provide investor education to help investors avoid costly and unnecessary mistakes, increase their potential returns, and take a more prudent approach to investing and growing their wealth.

You may contact them at (951) 679-2065, or check out their website at: http://www.myinvestmentcoach.com/

Five Best Golf-Specific Exercises to be Discussed at Menifee Valley Athletic Club

The five best golf-specific exercises for distance is the subject of this month's lecture series at Menifee Valley Athletic Club.

Golfers will learn:

• Exercises to improve mobility and stability


• Why the hips and abdominals are key factors in creating a powerful golf swing


• How to combine strength with power for additional club head speed

Los Primos Mexican Food NEW at Newport Rd Car Wash

A FANTASTIC Mexican drive-thru/eatery opened recently at the Car Wash on Newport Rd.· My first question to the cheerful gal behind the counter was "Are your Carne Asada Nachos as good as the old ones?"· "BETTER!" she emphatically replied.· A little skeptical, being fussy about my carne asada, I ordered the Carne Asada Mini Tacos, grabbed some carrots, a bag of chips, some salsa and some hot sauce, and sat down to wait.· The carrots were awesome!!· Not too hot, which was a nice surprise for me.· I was surprised again at the freshness and taste of the salsa, and then again that the "house" hot sauce had a really nice flavor, unlike the bland sauce you get at most of these smaller Mexican food places.

I didn't have to wait long for my tacos.· One bite and I was hooked.· (These mini tacos come standard with guacamole...yum.)· The beef was so tender and not one sign of grisle or fat.· Talking with the manager, Carlos Franco, I found out that Los Primos had a soft opening on Cinco de Mayo.· Their "grand opening" will be announced soon.· Franco told me that they only used Certifed Angus Beef and all white meat chicken breasts in their food, and that they were the home of the Monster Burrito.· (I'll have my son Paul check that out and we'll report back.)·

Wanting more information about their using only Certified Angus Beef, the owner, Ramon Alvarez, explained to me that only 8% of US Beef is entitled to the label "Certified Angus".· In order to be allowed to market their food as containing·"Certified Angus", they had to go through a rigorous approval process, and commit to serving ONLY "Certified Angus" at the restaurant for a minimum of 3 years.

"Certified Angus Beef" (CAB) is a special industry designation developed in 1978 that involves standards for marbeling, tenderness, age and color.· In my layman's terms,·"Certified Angus" means Certified Tender Yumminess.

Alvarez continued that they are committed to serving fresh & tasty food, offering $5 meal deals, kids' meals, healthy salads and other healthy options.· Los Primos is also very big on offering Fundraisers for Schools & Groups, and like to be a part of the communities their restaurants are in.

Los Primos has over 18 locations in Southern California, and I am SO glad that they decided to come here to our fine City of Menifee.· I will absolutely go back again.· The food was excellent and the service and management were extremely friendly·and easy to talk to.· I definitely walked away with a happy tummy, and a big smile on my face.

Be sure to visit Los Primos and welcome them to our City of Menifee! You will not be disappointed!

They are open daily from 7 am - 11 pm

Los Primos Mexican Food

26825 Newport Rd.

Menifee, CA· 92584

951-244-7746

Cal-Trans To Close Lanes on the I-215 in Murrieta Next Week

Starting next Monday, May 23, 2011, Cal-Trans will be shutting down the I-215 freeway between Scott Rd and Murrieta Hot Springs Rd, evening late night hours...

Menifee Police Planning to Crack Down On Seatbelt Violators Next Week

The Menifee Police Department will be looking for unbelted drivers and passengers as part of the 2011 Click It or Ticket mobilization, starting next Monday. The two week crackdown, lasting from May 23 to June 5, seeks to cite more drivers with fines for not wearing safety restraints.

The fines and fees for first time adult seat belt violations is a minimum of $142. For children under 16, the fine is $445 for a first time offense.

Despite California's seat belt use rate sitting at an all time high of 96.2 percent, it still leaves nearly one million drivers and passengers not buckling up, according to a Riverside County Sheriff's news release. Law enforcement officials credit previous "The Click It or Ticket" crackdowns for boosting the seat belt use rate from from 92.5 percent in 2005 to 96.2 percent in 2010.

The crackdown will intensify during evening hours due to statistics showing that drivers are least likely to buckle up after the sun goes down. Nationwide, of those who died in nighttime crashes in 2009, nearly two-thirds (62 percent) were not wearing seat belts at the time of their crashes.

"Many nighttime traffic deaths can be prevented if more motorists simply start wearing their seat belts. Law enforcement throughout the area will be looking for seat belt violators, day and night," said Sergeant Dan Lingo. "Citations will be issued without warning. It's not just about avoiding a costly ticket; it's about keeping the ones you care about alive. Remember to buckle up on every trip, day and night."

The Menifee Police Department is just one of 140 local law enforcement agencies throughout the State that will be participating in this year's program. Funding is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Independence Day Parade Invites Public to Participate

This year's Independence Day Parade and Celebration is scheduled to take place on Saturday, June 25, 2011.

The City of Menifee and the Lake Menifee Women's Club are looking for parade participants. Sports groups, schools, businesses, Boy & Girl Scout troops, Classic Cars, and clubs, are all welcome and the more the merrier. It's all about Community Spirit.

The parade begins at 5:00pm from the MSJC parking lot and ends at the Wheatfield Park in Menifee.

For Parade information please contact: Marcy Riehm (951)377-6089 or email: riehmteam@verizon.net.

There is no entry fee, but participants do need to contact Marcy Riehm to be placed into the Parade Line up.

City Adopts Changes in the Way Residents Request City Council Agenda Items

The City of Menifee hopes to streamline city council meetings by modifying the way issues get added to the agenda.

Last night the City Council voted to delete a rule from the City's decorum policy that allowed residents to propose new agenda items by making a public comment at city council meetings.

The rule, which stated...

"A member of the public may request that an item be placed on a future agenda during public comment or through other or outside communication with Council members. Upon approval of a majority of the Council, the item will be agendized and a staff report may be prepared."

...was struck out from the decorum policy.

Councilman Twyman, who took over for Mayor Edgerton after the Mayor recently underwent lung transplant surgery, indicated that residents can still contact councilmembers by phone or e-mail and request items be placed on a future agenda.

City Clerk Kathy Bennett explained that this would be an easier way for residents to add items to the agenda because they would no longer require a majority vote from the Council, and that it would afford city staff additional time to research and validate issues before placing them on the agenda.

Councilmember e-mail addresses are posted on the City's website at: http://cityofmenifee.us/

Medical Marijuana Dispensaries Banned Permanently in Menifee

The City of Menifee tonight enacted a permanent ban on medical marijuana dispensaries.

Two years ago, the City enacted a temporary, two year ban, which is scheduled to end on June 15, 2011. The City Council opened up a public hearing this evening to hear arguments, pro and con, on making that ban permanent.

Several residents spoke in favor of a permanent ban, arguing that it's become too easy for people to obtain permits for medical marijuana use, and that marijuana use has lead to stronger, more addictive drugs. But there were also those who spoke in favor of allowing medical marijuana dispensaries, contending that marijuana cooperatives generate income for cities, and that banning dispensaries is a form discrimination.

Councilman Fuhrman, who indicated he holds a permit for medical marijuana, expressed a desire for regulations that will permit dispensaries. Meanwhile, councilman Twyman noted that marijuana dispensaries create additional levels of bureaucracy and that marijuana use in general is best addressed at the federal level.

In the end, the council voted three to one, with Twyman, Denver, and Kuenzi voting to make the ban permanent, with Fuhrman voting against.

Tonight's vote is actually the first of a two-part reading. At the next city council meeting, the councilmembers will vote for a second and final time to make the ban permanent.

The Real Costs of Investing - Royal American Financial Advisors

Royal American Financial Advisors, LLC, based here in Menifee, brings another weekly video on investing your money.



John Borger and Scott Buchanan of Royal American Financial Advisors, LLC provide investor education to help investors avoid costly and unnecessary mistakes, increase their potential returns, and take a more prudent approach to investing and growing their wealth.

You may contact them at (951) 679-2065, or check out their website at: http://www.myinvestmentcoach.com/

Newport Commons Offers Virtual Offices

Never heard of a Virtual Office? This may be the affordable solution to your business needs.

If you want all the benefits of a physical office but don't need the actual space, then a virtual office program may be the perfect fit for you. The virtual program lets clients have all the perks below without having to pay for space they don't need. With 2 locations to suit your geographical needs. Murrieta and Menifee, you will have access both conference rooms. Basic Package $150/mo. All Access Package $ 175.00/mo., Phone Package $200/mo.

Some of the benefits of leasing from Ivy Springs and Newport Commons Virtual Offices:

• Professional Business mailing address
• Building lobby directory
• Fios high speed internet access
• Access to 2 Elegant conference rooms (one in Murrieta and one in Menifee) fully equipped with internet access and 42” LCD TV
• Kitchen and break area with vending machine and DirecTV
• Access to business center equipment
• Access to a highly skilled administrative staff
• Phone answering
• Fully featured phone system with 24/7 messaging and call forwarding
• Easy freeway access

If interested please call Jenniver at 951-837-8601 or email at info@sudweeksdevelopment.com or visit the website at Ivyspringsexecutivesuites.com or newportcommonsexecutivesuites.com

Swing Into Spring Dinner Dance

It's not too late to make plans for tomorrow night, and take your Sweetheart out to Swing Into Spring!

Phantom of the Opera - Opens Tonight at Heritage High

Heritage High School is proud to present:

Phantom of the Opera

Opening tonight: May 13, 2011, at 7:30p

Performances continue May 14, 20, and 21^st

Tickets are $10 for students, $12 for Adults.

Don't Miss It! Menifee MOTOR MADNESS tomorrow!

Date: Saturday, May 14, 2011
Start Time: 9:00 am End Time: 3:00 pm
(Time Zone: US/Pacific)

Location: Mt. San Jacinto College - Menifee (map)

Category: Club & Non-profit Events

Description

May 14th

Pancake Breakfast 6:30-9:30 am

Show from 9:00am - 3:00pm
Free Public Admission
Mt. San Jacinto College, Menifee Campus

Fun, Food, and
Entertainment For Everyone!

*no animals allowed on campus

Directions: From 215 take newport Road off-ramp, go east to antelope Road and turn South.

The Campus is located at the Corner of Antelope and La Piedra Roads

Proceeds going to Local and International Rotary Projects

More Info: http://www.menifeemotormadness.com

Location Details

Mt. San Jacinto College - Menifee
28237 La Piedra Road
Menifee CA 92584 US

Mayor Edgerton Undergoes Lung Transplant Surgery

A press release issued late today announced that Menifee Mayor Wallace Edgerton underwent lung transplant surgery yesterday morning. By today, he was communicating with family. The surgery went well, and the Mayor expects to return to his duties quickly.

May 2011 Fitness Schedule for Menifee Valley Athletic Club Published

Menifee Valley Athletic Club introduces their May Group Exercise Schedule. 75+ classes A WEEK. All Fitness Levels Welcome!!!”

Click calendar to view full size

Instincts & Investing - Royal American Financial Advisors

Royal American Financial Advisors, LLC, based here in Menifee, brings another weekly video on investing your money.

In "Instincts & Investing", Mark Matson, the founder and CEO of Matson Money Inc., an investment advisor firm managing over $2.7 billion (as of 09/30/10) for investors nationwide, explains how the cognitive part of our brain (what we know) often justifies bad investor instincts and causes investors to make irrational and costly decisions. This is probably the most important short video clip on investing you will ever watch, and something every investor should learn. Learn how to control your instincts and emotions and you will become a better investor by making better decisions. This is one for the archives!



John Borger and Scott Buchanan of Royal American Financial Advisors, LLC provide investor education to help investors avoid costly and unnecessary mistakes, increase their potential returns, and take a more prudent approach to investing and growing their wealth.

You may contact them at (951) 679-2065, or check out their website at: http://www.myinvestmentcoach.com/

Ethan's Run Banner Was Stolen, Public Asked For Help

On Friday, April 29th, the evening before Ethan's Run 10K at Heritage Lake in Menifee, a large banner was stolen from the corner of McCall and Heritage Lake Drive.

If anyone has seen or has any information regarding the whereabouts of this banner please contact the Heritage Lake office.

Heritage Lake Master Assoc.
27600 Heritage Lake Dr.
Menifee, CA 92585

(951) 246-7678
(951) 246-7651

Wal-Mart Ballot Says Nothing About "Wal-Mart"

The sample ballot for Measure C, otherwise known as the "Wal-Mart Ballot", was delivered to residents this past week. But there's nothing on the ballot mentioning that it's for Wal-Mart...

"Shall the ordinance proposing adoption of a specific plan for commercial development of approximately 30 acres of undeveloped property located near the northwesterly portion of the interstate 215 interchange with Scott Road be adopted?"

In short, the ballot is asking if a Wal-Mart should be built in Menifee, on the corner of Scott Rd and the 215.

By law, the ballot must read exactly the same as the original petition statement that Wal-Mart conducted late last year, which perhaps raises questions if Wal-Mart deceived residents with their original petition, when it gathered some 8,100 signatures.

Scott Mann, former Menifee City Councilman seems to think so. He attended the last city council meeting to warn residents on the wording of Measure C.

"I think the absence of 'Wal-Mart' on the petition and the ballot is disingenuous." said Mann in a recent interview. "The voter who desperately wants more restaurants, shops and perhaps movie theaters will vote 'yes' for those but may have voted 'no' if Wal-Mart appeared on the ballot."

Apparently, no one filed any arguments against Wal-Mart with the Registrar of Voters. The pamphlet accompanying the sample ballot simply mentioned in bold type, "NO ARGUMENT AGAINST MEASURE C FILED". However, there was an argument issued in favor of Wal-Mart along with endorsements from several noted residents.

The vote will take place on Tuesday, June 7th. However, vote by mail begins on May 9th.

What are your thoughts? Will voters be confused by the wording of this ballot, and mistakenly vote for something they had been opposed to?

Scrapbooking Retreats Popularity on the Rise

Marielen Christensen of Spanish Fork, Utah is often credited with reviving interest in scrapbooking in the United States. She began designing creative pages for her family’s photo memories, inserting the completed pages into sheet protectors collected in 3-ring binders. By 1980, she had assembled over fifty volumes and was invited to display them at the World Conference on Records in Salt Lake City. Marielen and her husband AJ authored and published a how-to book, Keeping Memories Alive, and opened a scrapbook store that remains open today.

In addition to preserving memories it is popular for the strong social network that scrapbooking can provide. “Scrappers”, “scrapbookers” or “sisters” get together and scrapbook at retreats, local scrapbook stores, expos and even cruises. They share tips and ideas, and build lifelong friendships. The term “crop,” a reference to cropping or trimming printed photographs, was coined to describe these events.

The scrapbook industry has doubled in size between 2001 and 2004 to $2.5 billion with over 1,600 companies creating scrapbook products by 2003. Creative Memories, founded in 1987, saw $425 million in retail sales in 2004. In the US, this hobby has surpassed golf in popularity: one in five households has someone playing golf; one in four has someone involved in scrapbooking.

Scrapbooking retreats are dedicated to providing creative women with the time, space and the tools to work on their albums; as well as providing a relaxing atmosphere to be rejuvenated. One of the beauties of scrapbooking is that one need not know a thing to get started! The retreats embrace new scrappers, and the experienced ladies just love to share all of their years of expertise. For information on a scrapbooking retreat near you, visit http://www.sisterhoodofscrappingretreats.com/

or email sisterhoodofscrapping@yahoo.com .

Beer Hunter May Karl Strauss Beer Pairing Dinner

The Beer Hunter in Menifee has taken Beer Pairing to a new level, with extraordinary meals that compliment delicious beers. If you are a beer connoisseur, or would like to be one, this is a meal you don't want to miss.

Menifee Motor Madness 2011

There is still time to enter, or just go check out the cool cars!

Penny Newman To Speak in Sun City About Environmental Issues

Riverside County United Communities, an organization serving Riverside County, will meet Saturday, May 21, 2011 at 8:30 AM for breakfast at Boston Billies Restaurant located at 26850 Cherry Hills Blvd. in the Sun City section of Menifee.

At 9:30 AM, guest speaker, Penny Newman, executive director of the Center for Community Action and Environmental Justice, will address environmental issues facing Southwestern Riverside County.

At 10:30 AM, Newman will address public comments.

Residents in the cities of Menifee, Jurupa, Perris, Nuevo, Desert Hot Springs, Lake Elsinore, Hemet, Wildomar, Mead Valley, Lake Mathews, Cherry Valley, Temecula, Murrieta, Wine County and Sky Valley are invited. Venue is accessible to persons with disabilities.

More information is available at www.rcwdog.com

Menifee Author Debuts Novel on Domestic Violence

In her debut novel, Purple Knot, romantic suspense author and Menifee resident, Raquel Byrnes, delves into the world of dark family secrets, high stakes corporate intrigue, and dangerous drug rings as takes she the reader on an whirlwind romance.

Reyna Cruz, Purple Knot's petite private detective, risks her heart and her life when she teams up with her ex fiance' to solve his sister's mysterious death. Purple Knot touches on the heartache of a friend in an abusive relationship, the misconceptions society has of domestic abuse, and the triumph of hope. An edge-of-your-seat romance, Purple Knot will get your heart pumping in more ways than one.

Raquel Byrnes, has lived in Menifee for six years with her husband and six children. A homeschooler for eleven years, Byrnes attends writers conferences, enjoys target shooting, and has taken private investigator courses. Her debut novel, the first in a three book series, is set to release from White Rose Publishing on June 3rd.

Raquel loves to hear from readers. For more information, you can reach her at http://raquelbyrnes.com/

Storage Wars in Menifee?

Upon seeing a Fox News van in front of Statewide Storage on Newport last Monday morning, MSJC student Paul Tavake stopped to see if there was a "Storage Wars" taking place here in our fine city of Menifee. Although neither the Mogul or the Gambler from A&E's "Storage Wars" showed up "it was exciting to see an actual auction taking place."

"I followed the herd of bidders to the last unit of the day that was filled with old carpet samples, but it also had 5 or 6 mystery boxes in it". Everyone seemed disapointed in the unit, and then one guy jokingly opened the bid at $10 and won it. "Dang," continued Tavake "I wish I had brought my wallet just so I could see what was in those mystery boxes."

Tavake didn't walk away empty handed. He has this great picture of him and the A&E Storage Wars star, Auctioneer Dan Dotson. "Dan was a really friendly guy and talks just as fast in real life as he does as an auctioneer", said Tavake.

Jim Branson, the Manager of Statewide Storage, said that the Fox News unit was from Las Vegas, but that an interview with Dan Dotson here at the storage auction in Menifee was the soonest time Dotson had available.

A total of 7 units were auctioned today, that sold from $5 to almost $2,000. Statewide used Dotson way before "Storage Wars" came out. Normally auctions are scheduled to take place after 90 days of non-payment on the storage unit.

"The hardest part of the auctions," said Branson "is that I become friends with these tenants...every one's got a story. Kind of like a barbershop. It's sad when it gets to that point where the auction has to take place."

After spending quite some time talking with Branson, what impressed me the most (besides his quick wit and friendliness) is the free storage that Statewide Storage provides to some of the non-profit groups here in Menifee, like storing all the toys that the local Firefighters collect for the Menifee Valley Community Cupboard 'Santa's Workshop' each year.

I LOVE to see people and businesses and people who give back to our City of Menifee.

Check them out: Statewide Storage is located at 27090 Newport Road, Menifee, CA 92584 (951) 301-8110

Enjoy A Special Mother's Day at The Beer Hunter

Click flyer to see full size

Visit The Beer Hunter online: http://www.thebeerhunter.net/

National Day of Prayer Breakfast

The Menifee Prayer Breakfast Committee in conjunction with the National Day of Prayer Organization is holding the third official Menifee Prayer Breakfast on May 5th, 2011 at the Kay Ceniceros Community Center located at 29995 Evans Road in Menifee.

Their goal is to bring the community together in prayer and fellowship to intercede for our city, its leaders, and for our Nation. Please join to hear from representatives of the City of Menifee, Menifee Valley Camber of Commerce, Menifee Police, Education, Military and local church pastors at this year’s event.

The event starts at 7:00am, will begin with breakfast followed by a state of the city and a needs update from the various representatives, prayer for those needs, and will then end at 9:00am. Register online at www.revival.tv (Get Connected) or contact Kathy Rees at 951.672.3157 or Linda Denver at 951.672.1731 for additional information.

The cost for the breakfast is $15, and this only covers the cost of food.

Shop Menifee Valley Athletic Club for Mother's Day

Mother’s Day is this Sunday, May 8th.

Menifee Valley Athletic Club has gift certificates and gifts for Mom that fit any budget. Show Mom how much you care with a gift that pampers and will make her feel like new.

Shop online at: https://mvac.boomtime.com/lgift or call them at 951-246-3530 and they'll be happy to assist you in finding the perfect gift.

New Skatepark in Menifee Being Discussed

If all goes well, there'll be a new skatepark in Menifee.

Menifee City Councilperson Darcy Kuenzi announced this evening that she's organizing a study group to bring a new skatepark to our town. She's thus far spoken to some residents who've all expressed a need for a skatepark within the City, and decided to do something about it.

"I spoke to a pastor who said he's always having to drive his kids to Corona just to go to a skatepark. I've talked to some Rotary Club members who say they're always having to drive someplace else to go to a skatepark", says Kuenzi. "So, I'm volunteering myself to get something going".

Kuenzi would like to invite interested persons to sit on a private committee to look at possible locations, where funding could come from, safety issues, and so forth. The committee is not associated with the City of Menifee, but simply the interests of local residents.

Thus far, the councilperson plans to get a meeting going with the few folks she's already talked to.

If anyone would be a part of this committee, or offer their resources, contact Darcy Kuenzi at (951) 961-9042, or e-mail her at dkuenzi@cityofmenifee.us

Cinco De Mayo at The Beer Hunter

History Through a Student's Eyes

We all know that college is where people decide to further their education where they can develop the necessary skills to promote themselves in the job market for a better paying job. Many classes are just about the fundamental basics, such as English or mathematics where students learn how to write or do equations, but the best classes are the classes where volunteer work and museum visits is required to pass.

Now, I am aware that volunteer work and museums is not everyone’s cup of tea, but it is the best way for students to learn hands on about the world around them.

In a history class that I am taking this semester, 10 hours of volunteer work is required to pass the class. The volunteer work has to be history related, and approved by the instructor of course. However, I believe getting the students involved in something they have never experienced is a great way to not only help the community, but also get them move excited and involved in the class lectures.

When I started taking this History class at Mt. San Jacinto College, I was intrigued at how the instructor had the students get involved with the history that is all around. So, during Spring break I took a trip out to see the USS Midway stationed in San Diego.

During my trip to the USS Midway, I not only was able to be in the presence of such great history but I was able to walk on it! The USS Midway, for those unaware is an aircraft carrier that was launched in 1945. It has a collection of 25 restored aircrafts, such as the SBD Dauntless dive bomber, 60 fully restored exhibits, where you can explore the ready rooms, the brig and engineering quarters, the chow lines, sick bay, and more!

The Midway has a self-guided audio tour narrated by Midway sailors that explain the history of the aircraft carrier, and flight simulators for those who are up for the challenge! There is a tour of the Captain’s bridge and control towers guided by the Midway volunteers. There are so many activities for families to partake in, such as climbing into actual aircrafts, learning Morse code and deciphering message flags! You can walk through their onboard jail, climb in the bunk beds, and enjoy the ejection seat theatre!

The Midway has endless activities, and is a very exciting and fun museum. There are also volunteer opportunities for those who are interested! They are looking for people to assist them in promoting the Midway, and really encourage the participation of the community to help restore this beautiful aircraft carrier.

Volunteers are required to have a four month commitment, and must be at least 18 years of age. The benefits of volunteering are endless! Volunteers learn new skills; have a deeper connection and understanding about the historical nature of the carrier as well as the military culture; not to mention their discounts! For those who are interested in volunteering here is the direct link http://www.midway.org/Volunteers .

For those of you who are interested in touring the Midway, here is the direct link for that http://www.midway.org/. Tickets may be purchased online or at the Midway itself. I encourage you to take a visit; you will definitely not regret it.

I also encourage students who want a more hands on experience to take a History class, such as History 112 with Professor Ulrich-Schlumbohm. The hands on experience and volunteer work have helped me connect more with History and have a better appreciation for it. I am sure some of you will too!

Some fun facts about this aircraft carrier are that: The Midway is 1,001 feet long, and the 20^th century’s longest serving carrier. It has 18 decks, 12 boilers and a 4.02 acre flight deck. It carried 4,500 crew members, 600 engineers, 225 cooks, 200 pilots, 40 corpsmen, 5 physicians, 3 dentists and 40 skippers in 47 years! The midway served 13,500 meals daily which consisted of 3,000 potatoes, 1,000 loaves of bread, 4,500 lbs of beef and 500 pies. The ship itself carried a total of 69,000 tons of weight, with 2,000 compartments, 2,000 electric motors, 1,500 telephones, and held a 3.4 million gallon capacity!

Westfield Soccer Club Announces Mini-Soccer Fall Season

30-Day Ripped Challenge Begins May 7th, 2011 at Menifee Valley Athletic Club

By popular request, beginning May 7th, join Menifee Valley Athletic Club's 30 DAY RIPPED Challenge. Just in time for summer...