Spiegel Spotlight: News for District 2 - December 2023

County of Riverside California - External sent this bulletin at 11/30/2023 09:30 AM PST

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Dear Friends and Second District Residents,

As your Second District Supervisor, it is with a sense of deep community and shared history that I write to you in this December newsletter. This month, we collectively turn our hearts and minds to significant observances reflecting our diverse and rich societal tapestry.

We begin December by honoring Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day on the 7th. This solemn day is a time to reflect on the tragic events of December 7, 1941, and to pay tribute to the brave individuals who sacrificed so much in the defense of our nation. It's a reminder of the cost of freedom and the importance of unity in the face of adversity.

In a beautiful contrast, we also celebrate the start of Chanukah on the evening of December 7th, lasting until the 15th. This Festival of Lights is a Jewish holiday and a universal symbol of resilience and hope. It reminds us of the power of faith and the triumph of light over darkness as we respect our community's cultural richness and diversity.

On December 21st, we observed National Memorial Day for Persons in Homelessness. This day calls us to remember those who have passed away while experiencing homelessness and to reflect on the ongoing struggle against homelessness in our society. It's a day for us to reaffirm our commitment to compassionate action and to seek solutions that uphold the dignity of every individual.

As we celebrate Christmas on December 25th, we embrace a season of giving, kindness, and family. This holiday serves as a reminder of the value of peace, love, and joy in our lives and communities. It's a time to cherish our loved ones and extend our goodwill to those around us.

Following Christmas, we welcome Kwanzaa from December 26th to January 1st. This cultural observance celebrates African-American heritage, focusing on unity, self-determination, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith. Kwanzaa enriches our understanding of cultural diversity and strengthens the bonds within our community.

December is also a time to remember children who have tragically passed away, celebrate all births, seek healing for children coping with illness or disability, protect children from domestic danger, and support our communities in need. This December to Remember initiative invites us to become more involved in the lives of children and families who face challenges, reminding us of our shared responsibility to nurture and protect our youngest and most vulnerable citizens.

In this spirit, I would like to highlight the significant work of The Unforgettables Foundation. This compassionate nonprofit organization provides crucial assistance to families in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties who are facing the unimaginable grief of arranging a funeral for a child. Their work is a beacon of hope and support in our community, embodying the spirit of giving and compassion that defines this season. To learn more about The Unforgettables Foundation, please visit https://unforgettables.org/.

As we bid farewell to December and look forward to the New Year, I urge everyone to have a safe and joyful New Year's Eve. It's a moment to reflect on the year past and to embrace the potential and promise of the year ahead.

May this month be a time of reflection, celebration, and action as we honor these crucial observances and work together to create a brighter future for all.

Wishing you a safe and joyous holiday season,

Riverside County wants to hear from you!

Provide important input to your local government - participate in our new survey tool

Do you have one minute a month to help make Riverside County better?

Join your friends and neighbors and make your voice heard on important local issues.

The County of Riverside is working with FlashVote to gather valuable input from residents to inform decisions on programs, policies and budget.

“I firmly believe that our strength lies in the collective voices of our residents," says Supervisor Spiegel. "This is an opportunity, not just to speak, but to actively shape the future of our community. Your one minute can drive significant change. I urge every Second District resident to take this moment and be a part of Riverside County's future.”

The sign-up process takes less than one minute and the individual information collected by FlashVote is never shared with the County, nor anyone else. When residents sign up, they can determine if they want to receive the surveys by email, text or phone.

Residents will receive a notification whenever there is a new survey, and they will have 48 hours to participate before voting closes. Once a survey is closed, everyone who participated will automatically receive a summary of the overall results and be able to see how their responses compare to the group. Results are anonymous.

The county encourages residents to sign up now or call (775) 235-2240 to participate by phone or text only.

Participate in helping make Riverside County better. Your opinions on how local government works for you matter.

Anti-Glare Fence Completion on De Palma Road and Glen Eden Road – Temescal Valley

In partnership with the Glen Eden Sun Club, Supervisor Karen Spiegel proudly unveiled a new anti-glare fence at Temescal Valley on November 20, 2023. This fence, installed at the intersection of Glen Eden and De Palma Roads, was designed to mitigate the intense glare from Interstate 15 traffic, enhancing safety for the community and Sun Club members. The project, led by Spiegel and executed by the County of Riverside Transportation Department, showcases her dedication to community safety and proactive solutions. Steve Spencer, President of Glen Eden Sun Club, commended Spiegel for addressing the hazardous glare affecting drivers in the area, highlighting the fence as a symbol of collaborative success. Supervisor Spiegel emphasized the importance of addressing community needs with innovative approaches, praising the wall as a testament to Temescal Valley's shared commitment to improving life.

Library Refresh – Home Gardens

The Riverside County Office of Economic Development is currently in the predevelopment phase of the Home Gardens Library Refresh project, an exciting initiative to renovate the Home Gardens Library. The project is notably funded through two significant federal sources. Firstly, it receives Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds sourced from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, as per 24 CFR Part 570. These funds come with specific federal requirements that must be adhered to. The American Rescue Plan Act funds from the U.S. Department of the Treasury, per 31 CFR Part 35, also helped finance the project. This funding entails compliance with the Uniform Guidance's Cost Principles at 2 CFR part 200 mandatory registration with the System for Award Management (SAM.gov), among other requirements. Construction is anticipated to begin in Spring 2025.

15/91 Express Lanes Connector - Now Open

The Riverside County Transportation Commission opened the 15/91 Express Lanes Connector on November 21, 2023, before the Thanksgiving holiday. This connector is crucial for the 91 Express Lanes Project, providing a regional link for reliable travel in and out of the county. The project was completed swiftly, including an extension of the eastbound 91 Express Lanes and improvements at the I-15 interchange. Funded partly by Senate Bill 132 and toll revenue, it has created over 2,300 construction jobs. Drivers need a FasTrak transponder and a prepaid account to use the lanes and connector. For more information, visit rctc.org.

Harmony Haven - New Facility for Foster Children Now Open

Riverside County has recently opened a new facility for foster children, Harmony Haven, in Beaumont. The county finalized the purchase of this site in mid-August. They currently accommodate 12 foster children, split evenly between boys and girls. This initiative aims to expand the facility's capacity to house up to 48 children. This significant development will help reduce the reliance on temporary accommodations and aims for children to stay at most ten days before being placed in a temporary or permanent home.

Supervisor Spiegel Hosts Anti-Glare Fence Unveiling Ceremony

Last month, Supervisor Spiegel and her team hosted the Anti-Glare Fence Unveiling Ceremony for the newly installed anti-glare fence along Glen Eden and De Palma Roads. Read more...

Good Morning Corona's Salute to the Military

Supervisor Spiegel was pleased to attend the monthly Good Morning Corona meeting. Last month's gathering wasn't just another occasion but a profound moment of respect and appreciation as it marked their annual Salute to the Military. Read more...

Supervisor Spiegel Joins the 129th CSAC Annual Meeting

Last month, Supervisor Spiegel had the opportunity to attend the 129th CSAC Annual Meeting. It was an enriching experience to collaborate and share insights with her colleagues and meet with others from across the state. Read more...

District Two at the Grand Opening of Rise & Shine Balloon Designs

The Second District Team was thrilled to experience the Grand Opening of Rise & Shine Balloon Designs in Lake Elsinore. Thank you to the Lake Elsinore Valley Chamber for flawlessly organizing this fantastic event and inviting us to participate. Read more...

Love All Serve All Inc. Spiritual Gathering in Corona

Supervisor Spiegel had a great opportunity to spend the evening at the Love All Serve All Inc. Spiritual Gathering in the City of Corona, where she was pleased to meet the esteemed spiritual leader, Sadguru Sri Madhusudan Sai. Read more...

District Two at Helping Hands' First Responders Appreciation Event

Our District Two Team was honored to be part of the First Responders Appreciation Event in Norco in October. The event was a beautiful gathering hosted by Helping Hands. It was a day filled with community spirit, heartfelt tributes, and learning. Read more...

Veterans Day in Lake Elsinore and Canyon Lake

The District Two Team was honored to participate in the Veterans Day events hosted by the City of Canyon Lake and the City of Lake Elsinore last month. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to both cities for their warm welcome and for organizing meaningful events that honor our veterans' service and sacrifices. Read more...

Jurupa Valley's Veterans Day Parade & Festival

Our District Two staff were delighted to join Jurupa Valley's Veterans Day Parade & Festival. It was a fantastic event honoring our veterans' service and sacrifice. Thanks to the city for having us and for a memorable celebration! Read more...

Woodcrest Monthly Municipal Advisory Council Meeting

The District Two Team was glad to host the monthly Woodcrest Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) meeting. It was a productive session with insightful discussions and valuable community input. Read more...

Annual Veterans Day Remembrance and Commemoration Dinner at the American Legion Joe Dominguez Post 742

Supervisor Spiegel attended the Annual Veterans Day Remembrance and Commemoration Dinner hosted by the American Legion Joe Dominguez Post 742 in Corona last month. Read more...

City of Eastvale Veterans Day Ceremony

Last month, Supervisor Spiegel was pleased to join the City of Eastvale at their Veterans Day Ceremony, where she was happy to lead in the Pledge of Allegiance. Read more...

Monthly Temescal Valley Municipal Advisory Council Meeting

The District Two Team was delighted to host the monthly Temescal Valley Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) meeting. It was an enriching and productive session with insightful discussions and valuable community input. Read more...

Supervisor Spiegel Attends Veterans Memorial Dedication at Trilogy Glen Ivy

Supervisor Spiegel was privileged to address our esteemed veterans at the Veterans Memorial Dedication at Trilogy Glen Ivy at the Pacific Crest Lodge. This event, hosted by the Trilogy Veterans Club, was a heartfelt tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of our service members. Read more...

Supervisor Spiegel Joins Annual Kristallnacht Remembrance Program

Supervisor Spiegel was honored to attend and speak at the Annual Kristallnacht Remembrance Program at the Corona Public Library last month. Read more...

Second District Attends Monthly Jurupa Valley Chamber Business Networking Luncheon

Our District Two Team always enjoys attending the monthly Jurupa Valley Chamber Business Networking Luncheon. It's always an insightful and engaging experience to connect with fellow professionals and learn more about the vibrant business community in Jurupa Valley. Read more...

Lake Elsinore Valley Chamber's Student of the Month Lunch Program

The Second District Team enjoyed attending the Lake Elsinore Valley Chamber's Student of the Month Lunch Program. It was a privilege to recognize the outstanding achievements of our local students and celebrate their dedication to excellence. Read more...

District Two Team Joins the Healthy Jurupa Valley General Meeting

The Second District Team was delighted to participate in the Healthy Jurupa Valley General Meeting. Engaging with community members and sharing ideas for a healthier, more vital Jurupa Valley was inspiring and productive. Read more...

Board of Supervisors Recognizes November 25th as Small Business Saturday

Supervisor Spiegel and her esteemed colleagues recognized November 25th as Small Business Saturday at last month's Board of Supervisors meeting. Read more...

Supervisor Spiegel Speaks at Kathy Azevedo Spirit of Norco Monument Dedication

Supervisor Spiegel was beyond honored to speak at the Kathy Azevedo Spirit of Norco Monument Dedication, an experience filled with heartfelt tribute and profound community spirit. Read more...

Supervisor Spiegel Joins Riverside County Department of Public Social Services' National Adoption Day Event

National Adoption Day was a day of immense joy as Supervisor Spiegel joined the Riverside County Department of Public Social Services and the Riverside Superior Court to witness over 100 finalized adoptions. Read more...

Supervisor Spiegel Honored to Join Amber Waves of Grain Parade and Festival

Supervisor Spiegel was pleased to attend the Amber Waves of Grain Craft Beer Festival to support our veterans. Held at The Shops at Dos Lagos in Corona, this exceptional event was a gathering of gratitude, community, and patriotic spirit. Read more...

Supervisor Spiegel Enjoys Riverside County Veterans Court Graduation

Supervisor Spiegel had the honor of attending the Riverside County Veterans Court Graduation. It was a ceremony filled with dignity, hope, and respect, celebrating the incredible journeys of perseverance and transformation. Read more...

Second District Attends CLEAR Foundation Ribbon-Cutting

The Second District Team had the honor of attending the ribbon-cutting event for the CLEAR Foundation hosted by the Canyon Lake Chamber. Thank you to the CLEAR Foundation and the Canyon Lake Chamber for allowing us to participate in this beautiful journey. Read more...

Riverside County Participates in Operation Green Light Ceremony

Supervisor Spiegel and Supervisor Washington had the distinct honor of hosting a heartfelt ceremony to pay tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of Riverside County veterans. Read more...

Grand Reopening of the San Jacinto Valley Animal Campus

Supervisor Spiegel enjoyed attending the Grand Reopening of the San Jacinto Valley Animal Campus. Standing alongside her colleagues, Supervisor Chuck Washington and Supervisor Yxstian Gutierrez, on this particular day was an honor. Read more...

Supervisor Spiegel at IEHP Covered California Kickoff Event

Supervisor Spiegel was pleased to attend the IEHP Covered California Kickoff Event held at the vibrant IEHP Community Resource Center in San Bernardino. Read more...

The Second District Team Attends the Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District Dedication Ceremony

Our Second District Team had the privilege of attending the poignant Dedication Ceremony, a heartfelt tribute to the remarkable life and service of former Director Philip R. Williams, hosted by the Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District. Read more...

Board of Supervisors Recognizes Kristallnacht Commemoration

At the Board of Supervisors meeting at the end of October, the members recognized the Kristallnacht Commemoration on the anniversary of Kristallnacht, or the "Night of Broken Glass," on November 9-10. Read more...

Queen of Hearts Therapeutic Riding Center, Inc.

Queen of Hearts Therapeutic Riding Center, Inc.'s mission is to improve the bodies, minds, spirits, and quality of life of persons with physical and developmental disabilities and mental illnesses through equine-assisted activities and therapies.

The riding center's vision is to be an inspiration and educational resource to the equine therapy profession and advocate for the healing and humane relationship between horses and humans. They also envision that no client will be turned away due to a lack of funds.

The symbol of Queen of Hearts Therapeutic Riding Center, Inc. is a horse head in the center of a heart. Their motto is "The Riding Spirit Comes from the Heart" because it takes a heart of courage, determination, and nerve for anyone, let alone a person with special needs, to learn to ride a horse or even be around a horse. The center’s loyal supporters also display this spirit as they keep the center’s spirit alive. Learn more...

Herbert Cirilo – City of Eastvale

After serving for over 30 years with the Los Angeles Police Department, Herbert retired as a Police Sergeant II. He accumulated several advanced supervisory-level certificates through his years with the City of Los Angeles. His leadership assignments oversaw various specialized unit details, including Narcotics, Gang Enforcement, Department In-Service training, Community Volunteer programs, Academy academic supervisor, Physical fitness supervisor, and Academy drill instructor.

After retiring from the LA Police Department, Herbert joined Eastvale's Public Safety Commission and played an instrumental role in creating Eastvale's Volunteer Program. He is present at all community events, patrols streets/shopping centers, and maintains a presence in Eastvale.
Eastvale's Volunteer Program encourages community participation and works to enhance the quality of life of Eastvale residents. Not only was Herbert a significant contributing factor in the program's creation, but he is also a dedicated volunteer and an excellent addition.

Herbert and his wife Beth have been married for 35 years and have been residents of the City of Eastvale since early 2018. They have three adult children and one grandchild. Herbert and Beth are actively involved with Calvary Chapel and volunteer hours of faithful service to many outreaches. Herbert continues to desire public safety and looks forward to sharing his experience and contributing to serving the great citizens of Eastvale.

Riverside County Department of Veterans Services

The Riverside County Department of Veterans Services is designed to honor, support, and advocate for the brave men and women who have served our nation. The department is dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate assistance, ensuring veterans and their families access the benefits, resources, and opportunities they deserve. Learn more...

County of Riverside Transportation Department

The Department of Transportation's mission is to provide the citizens of Riverside County with increasingly more courteous, efficient, and cost-effective services dedicated to improving the quality of life and orderly economic development through the provision and management of a safe, efficient, and convenient transportation system, enhancing the mobility of people, goods and services within the integrated Agency activities. Learn more...

County of Riverside Facilities Management

Riverside County Department of Facilities Management provides property management and operations services for county-owned and leased facilities throughout the 7,200 square miles of Riverside County and over 14 million square feet of space. The department is responsible for keeping county buildings safe, comfortable, and productive for county staff and the public. FM provides a wide variety of services. Read more...

NOW RECRUITING: Boards, Committees & Commissions

Interested in getting involved with local Boards, Committees & Commissions within the Second District?

Now accepting applications for:

Behavioral Health Commission
Children and Families Advisory Committee
Woodcrest Municipal Advisory Council
In-Home Supportive Services Advisory Committee
Flood Control Commission
Fair Board
Elsinore Valley Cemetery District

For more information, please visit https://rivcodistrict2.org/boards-committees-commissions

Now Recruiting: Boards, Committees & Commissions

Board of Supervisors Meetings:

December 5 - 9:30 a.m. at 4080 Lemon St., 1st Floor, Riverside, CA 92501
December 12 - 9:30 a.m. at 4080 Lemon St., 1st Floor, Riverside, CA 92501
December 19 - NO MEETING
December 26 - NO MEETING

Municipal/Community Advisory Council Meetings:

Temescal Valley MAC - NO MEETING. Learn more...
Woodcrest MAC - NO MEETING. Learn more...
Lakeland Village CAC - December 6 at 6:00 p.m. at Lakeland Village Community Center at 16275 Grand Ave., Lake Elsinore, CA 92530. Learn more...