Dear Friends and Second District Residents,
As we embrace the summer sun and welcome the month of June, now is the time to reflect on the many meaningful observances this month offers, which follow a solemn time of remembrance to honor those who have given us these opportunities.
Memorial Day Recap
After attending several Memorial Day observances, ceremonies, and events, I have learned that not all Americans celebrate this day or even truly know what it represents. My kids grew up learning there was no "free" day off from school. From a young age, we stressed the importance of understanding the true significance of the day by encouraging each of them to participate in some program or event which reflected on the true meaning of Memorial Day and the sacrifices that our military personnel have made for each one of us. Remember, our soldiers do not enjoy such a privilege of a "day off." Defense of our nation in wartime is a 24/7 commitment which knows no holidays.
I cannot tell you stories of the battlefield. I was never there. I cannot tell you stories of living with a family member who returned from war. My brother served during peacetime. I can tell you that I have looked into the eyes of a soldier, and not just on Memorial Day. It is important for them to share the stories of their sacrifice with our younger generations. Stories of our fallen heroes' legacy of service, duty, and sacrifice which have left a safer and more peaceful world for our children to grow up in.
Look into the eyes of a soldier – have you really looked at a soldier's face? Sometimes it's young, barely an adult, the hopes of youth still painted in its features. Sometimes it's older than faith, older than wisdom, older than time. And sometimes... sometimes, it's a bit of both all at once.
Sometimes it's gritty and pained, remembering the face of another who has fallen. Sometimes it's laughing, pleased to have a moment of peace. Most of the time, it's proud because it knows the world is a different place, a better place because of it.
Next time you look at a soldier's face, see if you can find that glint of pride. Sometimes it's hidden, and you must search it out. You'll find it in the eyes, for the eyes are the windows to the soul, especially a soldier's soul.
And when you've carefully examined every feature of that soldier's face, stand up straight and tall and smile your best smile. Thank that soldier because they do what some cannot or will not. They defend what they believe to be right with their very life. But more important, they defend a perfect stranger – you.
Flag Day - June 14
Flag Day is a celebration of the American flag that occurs each year on the anniversary of the flag's official adoption, June 14. What we know fondly as the “Stars and Stripes” was adopted by the Continental Congress as the American flag on June 14, 1777, in the midst of the Revolutionary War. Prior to this time, colonial troops fought under many different flags, each representing individual colonies or special interests. The Declaration of Independence made the adoption of a unified flag necessary. Today, the American flag is one of the most recognizable flags in the world, serving not just as a symbol of American bravery but a representation of what America stands for – freedom.
Father's Day - June 18
I would like to draw attention to Father's Day, which is June 18. In the words of Clarence Budington Kelland, "My father didn't tell me how to live; he lived and let me watch him do it." As we celebrate Father's Day, let's take a moment to express our gratitude to all the father figures in our lives - those who have guided, nurtured, and inspired us through their examples.
As we navigate through June, let's carry the spirit of these observances in our hearts and actions, fostering a sense of unity, compassion, and understanding in our communities. Here's to a month full of love, acceptance, and celebration!
Warmly,
County Budget Information
June also brings us to the end of our fiscal year (July 1 – June 30), also known as the financial or budget year.
Every year the County of Riverside Executive Office begins to prepare the annual budget, usually beginning in January, for approval by the Board of Supervisors. After input from all the departments, a recommended budget is prepared for review that focuses on transforming services across connected departments and serving the county's ever-growing number of residents.
The recommended budget will be discussed by the Board of Supervisors, along with department presentations, during upcoming budget hearings on June 12 and 13. Following any adjustments by the Board, the final budget is scheduled to be adopted on June 27. The next fiscal year runs from July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2024.
The County's entire $8.6 billion budget provides for wide-ranging programs that impact the daily lives of residents, including health services, public safety, social services, public works, and community services. Approximately $1 billion of this budget is discretionary, where additional priorities are determined to further enhance the quality of life for Riverside County residents. In addition, we are initiating a new practice to commit up to 1% of discretionary revenue to reserves. This is the second year of a structurally balanced budget in more than a decade. And, for the first time in more than fifteen years, the recommended budget projects to end the fiscal year with a General Fund reserves balance higher than when we started. We are certainly open to comments and suggestions, so please feel free to attend the Public Hearings. To read the recommended budget, visit https://rivco.org/budget-information.
Message from the County Executive Officer
As we look ahead to another year, I find myself reflecting on the remarkable journey we have undertaken. We have been tested in ways we never anticipated, yet, we have risen to the occasion, displaying unwavering resilience and an indomitable spirit. Our region continues to attract individuals and families seeking a place to call home. The population growth we have been experiencing continues and is a testament to the allure and opportunities our county affords. With this growth comes responsibility – a responsibility to ensure that Riverside County remains a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable community for all within its borders.
To make good on our promise to improve the quality of life for those who live, work, and enjoy life in Riverside County, we must remain steadfast in our commitment to achieve our goals. We are investing in the well-being of our residents. We are transforming the way we deliver services, making them more efficient, accessible, and responsive to the diverse needs of our community. We are seeking systemic equity, recognizing that where you live should not determine how well or how long you live and believing that everyone deserves equal opportunities to thrive. We are working to be ready for, respond to, and recover from the unexpected. And we are striving to achieve fiscal stability.
For the second straight year, the General Fund discretionary budget is structurally balanced. And, for the first time in more than fifteen years, the recommended budget projects to end the fiscal year with a General Fund reserves balance higher than when we started. This would be realized by initiating a new practice to commit up to 1% of discretionary revenue to reserves as we seek to align ourselves with the Government Finance Officers' Association best practice target of a reserve balance equal to two months of General Fund operating expenses. Additionally, we are recommending a new approach to set aside 0.5% of discretionary revenue and any unspent contingency funds from the prior fiscal year into reserves for deferred maintenance and capital improvement projects.
This budget represents $8.6 billion in total spending, a net increase of 15.1% or $1.1 billion over last year's recommended budget. But, as a former Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund once said, "Budgeting is not just about numbers; it's about making a difference in people's lives and investing in their future."
This budget creates the opportunity to enhance the efforts of our departments, providing vital programs for our constituents countywide by increasing spending for health services, public safety, social services, public works, and community services.
Additionally, this budget includes $20 million in funding to supplement departmental budgets and to pay for unique priorities or projects vital to our constituents. It also includes $10 million specifically for investment in the unincorporated areas of our county, which is in addition to the $10 million and $5 million that was set aside for this purpose in the two previous budgets.
Notably, this budget also includes American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) investments in infrastructure projects (water, sewer, broadband), neighborhood revitalization (sidewalks, streetlights, parks, libraries), childcare workers and facilities, workforce development, non-profit assistance, affordable housing, and emergency shelters – all focused on preparing our communities for the future.
While we hold optimism for what lies ahead, it is crucial to acknowledge the ongoing challenges that persist in our path. The long-term economic forecast remains unclear, and we are beginning to see local revenue growth slow and flatten. We are keenly aware of the potential local ramifications stemming from the State of California's projected budget deficit, recognizing the significant implications it may have on our community's well-being and progress. The uncertainty surrounding federal fiscal policies could have repercussions for the county, casting a shadow of ambiguity over our financial landscape.
At the same time, we are seeing demand for services increase, and our ability to recruit and retain high-quality employees becomes more difficult. As a result, our focus is on talent acquisition and nurturing a supportive environment to ensure a strong workforce that remains committed to serving our constituents. We are reviewing the compensation of all job classes to ensure we remain competitive with other local governmental entities and adjusting as necessary. Additionally, we have increased the medical contribution subsidy paid by the county to employees with dependents – bringing us in line with our neighboring jurisdictions. More needs to be done, and we look forward to continued collaboration with our labor groups.
In closing, I am deeply grateful for your continued guidance, direction, and support. With your leadership, we have overcome adversity and continue to build a brighter future for Riverside County. I have unwavering confidence in the strength, determination, and resilience of our department heads, employees, partners, and community members. By working together, we will continue to shape a county where everyone thrives, opportunities abound, and the promise of a better tomorrow becomes a reality.
Respectfully submitted,
Jeffrey A. Van Wagenen, Jr. County Executive Officer
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Norco's Memorial Day Tribute
Supervisor Spiegel joined the Norco community in paying respects at the Norco Memorial Day Tribute held at the George Ingalls Veterans Memorial Plaza. The event was a heartfelt tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Read more...
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Riverside County's Contributes to American Legion Posts
Riverside County's commitment to honoring and supporting veterans is reflected in the County's Community Improvement Designation (CID) Grant assisting the American Legion Posts' Honor Guard Detail program, the Digital Equity Program helping with technology, and the District 21 Commander, David Brambila, holding a Commander's College for all American Legion Posts in our District. Read more...
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Supervisor Spiegel Celebrates Community Spirit at the 20th Anniversary of the Temescal Valley Community Faire
Supervisor Spiegel made an exciting appearance at the 20th anniversary of the much-loved Temescal Valley Community Faire at Deleo Regional Sports Park. Read more...
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Supervisor Spiegel at Good Morning Corona
Supervisor Spiegel attends a beautiful morning filled with bright smiles and enlightening conversations at Good Morning Corona. Read more...
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Supervisor Spiegel Attended the ICSC Las Vegas Event
Supervisor Spiegel and her staff attended the ICSC Las Vegas event. Read more...
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Supervisor Spiegel at the 40th Annual Riverside County Peace Officer's Memorial Ceremony
Supervisor Spiegel attended the 40th Annual Riverside County Peace Officer's Memorial Ceremony, honoring the bravery and sacrifice of our fallen officers from 1907 to the present. Read more...
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Supervisor Spiegel at the JUSD Student of the Year Celebration
Supervisor Spiegel was proud to recognize the excellence of our incredible students at the JUSD Student of the Year Celebration. Read more...
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The Second District Team Attends the Hampton Inn & Suites Groundbreaking Ceremony
The Second District Team had the privilege of attending the Groundbreaking Ceremony for the Hampton Inn & Suites. Read more...
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The Second District Team Attends the Jurupa Valley Networking Lunch
The Second District Team had a great time at the Jurupa Valley Networking lunch. Read more...
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Supervisor Spiegel Celebrates Norco's Centennial
On a day filled with camaraderie and reverence for history, Supervisor Spiegel attended the Norco Centennial Celebration held on May 13. Read more...
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Second District Hosts the Monthly Temescal Valley Municipal Advisory Meeting
The Second District Team hosted the monthly Temescal Valley Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) meeting at the Retreat at Wedgewood. Read more...
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Supervisor Spiegel Attends the Corona Regional Medical Center Community Open House
Supervisor Spiegel attended the Community Open House for the Corona Regional Medical Center (CRMC), marking the unveiling of the much-anticipated Subacute Unit Expansion. Read more...
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Supervisor Spiegel Attends 74th Annual Lake Elsinore Chamber of Commerce Installation Event
The Chamber of Commerce's annual installation event is a storied tradition in Lake Elsinore, serving as a pivotal occasion for recognizing and appreciating the area's vibrant business community. Read more...
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Supervisor Spiegel Enjoys Cinco de Mayo Celebration at Corona's City Park
Corona's City Park was alive with vibrant colors, festive music, and the contagious joy of a community united in celebration this past weekend as the city commemorated the annual Cinco de Mayo festivities. Read more...
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Supervisor Spiegel Joins the Day of Prayer Event in Canyon Lake
Supervisor Spiegel recently attended the Day of Prayer event at the City of Canyon Lake. Read more...
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Supervisor Spiegel Attends Corona Founders' Day Celebration
Supervisor Karen Spiegel attended the Corona History Association's annual Founders' Day Celebration held at the Corona Public Library. Read more...
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Supervisor Spiegel Attends Eastvale's Day of Prayer Event
Supervisor Spiegel was honored to participate in the Day of Prayer event with the City of Eastvale at the Eastvale Community Center. Read more...
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Lake Elsinore Valley Chamber of Commerce Student of the Year Awards
The Second District Team had a blast attending the Lake Elsinore Valley Chamber of Commerce Student of the Year awards. Read more...
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The Second District Team Tours the Riverside County Animal Shelter
The Second District Team embarked on a Riverside County Animal Shelter tour earlier this month. Read more...
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Welcoming Blooming Gals Flower Shop to Corona
There's a new bloom in town! Corona, get ready to welcome the Blooming Gals Flower Shop, the latest addition to our vibrant local business scene. Read more...
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Board of Supervisors Recognizes Long-serving Employees in Riverside County
In a recent Riverside County Board meeting, a special recognition took place, honoring those who have dedicated 25 years or more of their lives in service to the county. Read more...
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Corona Fire Department's Annual Recognition Event
In a display of heartfelt appreciation, the Corona Fire Department's Annual Recognition event recently unfolded, honoring the bravery and selflessness of our community's first responders. Read more...
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Riverside County Board of Supervisors Recognizes Military Appreciation Month
The Riverside County Board of Supervisors gathered at the Board meeting on May 2 to honor May as Military Appreciation Month. Read more...
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Riverside County's Second District Rotary Clubs Come Together for a Cause
Four local Rotary Clubs - united by a common cause - came together to make a difference in the lives of those less fortunate in our community. Read more...
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Supervisor Spiegel Joins Jurupa District Lions 75th Charter Anniversary Jubilee Celebration
The club focuses on alleviating hunger, offering vision care, helping the environment, and supporting efforts to treat childhood cancer and diabetes in the local community. Read more...
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YOU'RE INVITED! Supervisor Spiegel invites you to the First Inaugural Senior Legacy Awards event, a celebration of our beloved seniors and their remarkable contributions to our community.
Join us on June 21, 2023, at 11:30 a.m. at the Glen Ivy Golf Club for an unforgettable afternoon of recognition and appreciation.
Mark your calendars and spread the word to friends, family, and colleagues. Let's show our community's support and admiration for our exceptional senior members!
Tickets are selling out fast, and seats are limited!
Get your tickets TODAY at: seniorlegacyawards.eventbrite.com
Move Through Motivation
Move Through Motivation isn’t a group of individuals, it’s a movement aimed at spreading Compassion, Positivity, and Resiliency in our everyday lives. Let’s leave a positive impact one person at a time. Join us in building each other up and together we will overcome anything. One person can’t move a mountain…but together we can.
Through a YouTube channel and Podcasts, Move Through Motivation shares inspirational stories to encourage build each other up. Through speaking engagements, Move Through Motivation reaches out to various audiences to explain the effects of compassion, positivity, and resiliency in our every day lives. Through the Just Move! campaign, Move Through Motivation works to build healthier communities by encouraging people to get outside and Just Move! Learn more...
NOW RECRUITING: Boards, Committees & Commissions
Interested in getting involved with local Boards, Committees & Commissions within the Second District?
Now accepting applications for:
- Lakeland Village Community Advisory Council
- Woodcrest Municipal Advisory Council
- Advisory Council on Aging
- Children and Families Advisory Committee
For more information, please visit rivcodistrict2.org/Our-District/Boards-Committees-Commissions.
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Know Before You Go with SoCal 511
The 511 website offers traffic advisories, real-time train and bus arrival updates, bike routing, ridesharing resources, and veteran assistance, all in one place for residents in Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange, Ventura, and Los Angeles counties. Learn more...
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Coachella Valley Rail Needs Your Support!
Riverside County Transportation Commission is seeking state and federal funding for the Coachella Valley Rail Project. Learn more...
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Housing Authority of the County of Riverside
The Housing Authority of the County of Riverside (HACR) is a public agency chartered by the State of California to administer the development, rehabilitation, or financing of affordable housing programs. Learn more...
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Riverside County Veterans Services
Our Veterans Service Representatives are thoroughly trained and accredited by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs to represent you. Learn more...
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Riverside County Park & Open Space District
The mission is to acquire, protect, develop, manage, and interpret for the inspiration, use, and enjoyment of all people, a well-balanced system of park related places of outstanding scenic, recreational, and historical importance. Learn more...
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22nd Annual Corona Antiques & Collectibles Faire
When: Saturday, June 3 at 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Where: 510 West Foothill Parkway, Corona CA 92882
Save the date, vintage enthusiasts and treasure hunters! Don't miss the 22nd Annual Corona Antiques and Collectibles Faire on Saturday, June 3, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Learn more...
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Jurupa Valley Summer Day Camp
When: Sessions begin June 5. See link for details.
Where: Skyview Event Center 5257 Wineville Ave. Jurupa Valley, CA 91752
Day Campers will participate in various theme-based activities including arts & crafts, sports, group games, cooking and nature projects. Learn more...
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Adventure Garden Clean Up
When: Monday, June 5 at 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Where: 5840 Mission Blvd, Jurupa Valley, CA 92509
Volunteers needed! bring your gloves and tools. Snacks and water provided. Contact jesus@we-reachout.org.
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Commerce and Cocktails - City of Corona
When: Tuesday, June 6 at 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Where: 3550 Grand Oaks Corona, CA 92881
Expand your network. Socialize with the business community and create new contacts. Learn more...
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Jurupa Valley Chamber of Commerce Business Networking Meeting
When: Thursday, June 8 at 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Where: 4957 Felspar Street Jurupa Valley, CA 92509
Don't miss out on the opportunity to expand your business connections! Join us at our exciting Monthly Business Networking Meeting. Learn more...
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Rondo School of Discovery 2nd Annual Art Walk!
When: Friday, June 9 at 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Where: 14977 Walters Street, Eastvale, CA 92880
Over 1,000 pieces of original student art on display, fun family activities, great LIVE music and more at the 2nd Annual Rondo School of Discovery Art Walk! Learn more...
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EATSvale Food Truck Festival
When: June 9 at 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Where: 7155 Hamner Ave.
Eastvale’s popular Food Truck Festival’s is back at a new location! 7155 Hamner Avenue (NW corner of Hamner & Schleisman). Learn more...
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Jurupa Valley Community Pro Rodeo
When: Friday, June 9 & 10 at 5:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.
Where: 8629 Jurupa Road Jurupa Valley, CA 92509
Join us for the return of the Jurupa Valley Pro Rodeo! Learn more...
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Movies and Concerts in the Park - City of Norco
When: Dates and times vary
Where: See link for details
Get ready to enjoy sizzling hot entertainment at Concerts in the Park! Get ready to enjoy family-friendly entertainment at Movies in the Park! Learn more...
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Community Clean-Up/Paper Shredding - City of Norco
When: June 10 at 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Where: 3737 Crestview Drive Norco, CA 92860
The City of Norco, in partnership with Waste Management and the Riverside County Department of Waste Resources, hosts two free Community Clean-Up & Paper Shredding events for Norco residents each year. Learn more...
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Flag Day Ceremony - City of Corona
When: Saturday, June 10 at 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Where: 735 Public Safety Way Corona, California 92882
The community is invited to attend a Flag Day Ceremony to be held on Saturday, June 10, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Learn more...
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Lake Elsinore - FREE Community Clean Up Event
When: June 10 at 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Where: 521 N. Langstaff St. Lake Elsinore CA 92530
Keep our neighborhoods clean. Drop off your tires at our free event. (Proof of residency required). Learn more...
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Corona - Flag Day Celebration
When: Wednesday, June 14 at 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Where: Corona Public Library 650 S Main St, Corona, CA 92882
Join us for a traditional flag folding ceremony and light refreshments. Learn more...
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Lake Elsinore - Movies in the Park
When: June 14 at 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Where: 18505 Malaga Road Lake Elsinore, California 92530
Join us for a delightful evening under the stars at Summerly Park's annual Summer Movies in the Park event! Learn more...
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Second District Senior Legacy Awards
When: Wednesday, June 21 at 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Where: Glen Ivy Golf Club - Golf Course Ballroom 24400 Trilogy Parkway, Corona CA, 92883
Join us for the Second District Senior Legacy Awards. Sponsorship levels are available. Learn more...
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Critter Kidz Camp Week 1- Animal Detectives
When: June 19-23, June 26-30
Where: 6851 Van Buren Blvd, Jurupa Valley 92509
Not what you might expect to find at a typical animal shelter - but we’re not typical - llamas, camels, reptiles and more. Every day will include a special mysterious critter as well as fun ways to learn about them through activities, crafts and games. Learn more...
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JCSD Picnic in the Park - Volunteers Needed!
When: June 23-25
Where: Eastvale Community Park 12750 Citrus St, Eastvale, CA 92880
Come join JCSD Parks and Recreation Department at the Eastvale Community Park annually on the last weekend in June to enjoy Picnic In the Park. Learn more...
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May Jurupa Valley Prosper
When: June 24 at 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Where: 8300 Limonite Ave., Jurupa Valley CA 92509
Join Healthy Jurupa Valley's Community Prosperity Action Team for a resources and networking event. Food, drinks, arts, crafts and more! Learn more...
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Woodcrest Town Hall Meeting
When: Thursday, June 22 at 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Where: 16940 Krameria Riverside CA 92504
You’re Invited! Supervisor Karen Spiegel invites you to attend the Woodcrest Townhall on June 22nd, 2023, hosted by the County of Riverside at Woodcrest Elementary (16940 Krameria Ave, Riverside, CA 92504) from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm. Learn more...
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Jurupa Valley - Lego Stem
When: Monday - Friday, June 26-30
Where: Skyview Event Center 5257 Wineville Ave., Jurupa Valley 91752
Let your imagination run wild with thousands of LEGO parts! Build engineer-designed projects and use special pieces to create your own unique designs! Learn more...
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Board of Supervisors Meetings:
- June 6 - 9:30 a.m. at 4080 Lemon St., 1st Floor,, Riverside, CA 92501
- June 13 - 9:30 a.m. at 4080 Lemon St., 1st Floor,, Riverside, CA 92501
- June 20 - No meeting
- June 27 - 9:30 a.m. at 4080 Lemon St., 1st Floor,, Riverside, CA 92501
Municipal/Community Advisory Council Meetings:
- Temescal Valley MAC - June 14 at 6:00 p,m, at Terrace Club at Terramor at 11750 Temescal Hills Drive, Temescal Valley, CA 92883. Learn more...
- Woodcrest Town Hall Meeting - June 22 at 6:00 p.m. at Woodcrest Elementary Multipurpose Room at 16940 Krameria Ave., Riverside, CA 92504. Learn more...
- Lakeland Village CAC - No meeting
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- National Flag Day - June 14
- World Elder Abuse Awareness Day - June 15
- Father’s Day - June 18
- Juneteenth - June 19
- National Men’s Health Week - June 12-18
- National Nursing Assistants’ Week - June 15-21
- Mosquito Control Awareness Week - June 20-26
- National PTSD Awareness Month
- LGBT Pride Month
- National Safety Month
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