Spiegel Spotlight: News for District 2 - October 2024

County of Riverside California - External sent this bulletin at 10/01/2024 08:00 AM PDT

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To contact the Second District, please email district2@rivco.org.

Dear Friends and Second District Residents,

As we enter this month, I'd like to offer this edition of our newsletter highlighting key initiatives impacting our district and County. October is a month of many opportunities to come together, share our heritage, and focus on the well-being of our families and friends, showcasing the values and priorities that unite our community. With many important dates, observances, and services offered this month, please read through my October newsletter below to get all the essential details.

First, in light of the recent fires, flash floods, and high winds impacting Southern California, including power outages and mandatory evacuations in our neighboring county of San Bernardino, I want to remind our residents to stay vigilant and prepared. Safety is a top priority, and one way you can ensure your family is ready in the event of an emergency is by signing up for Alert RivCo, Riverside County’s rapid alert and warning system for emergencies. This service allows emergency managers and public safety first responders to quickly notify you of potential hazards and evacuation orders. You can sign up at https://rivcoready.org/alert-rivco to receive these crucial alerts.

Rosh Hashanah, observed from October 2-4, marks the Jewish New Year, a time of reflection, self-examination, and renewal, where individuals and communities are encouraged to look inward, seek forgiveness, and set intentions for the year ahead. Yom Kippur on October 11-12, the Day of Atonement, is a solemn and sacred occasion for many, symbolizing repentance, reconciliation, and spiritual cleansing. By recognizing these meaningful traditions, we celebrate the diversity that enriches our community and fosters a spirit of togetherness and mutual respect.

October 9 marks both Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples' Day, two observances that remind us of the importance of understanding history in all its complexity. As we celebrate and acknowledge these days, I encourage everyone to explore the County’s historical resources, particularly those related to our region’s rich Native American history. The County’s libraries offer historical and educational tools to better understand and appreciate the heritage that shaped our country and Riverside County. For more information, please visit https://rivlib.info/.

Make a Difference Day on October 28 encourages us all to step up and give back to the community. Whether it’s through volunteer work, supporting local nonprofits, or simply helping a neighbor, this day serves as a reminder of the power of community action. To learn more about the many different volunteer opportunities available throughout Riverside County, please visit https://rivco.org/volunteer-opportunities.

Halloween on October 31 is a fun and exciting time for families, but keeping safety in mind is also important. Riverside County is committed to ensuring our neighborhoods remain safe for trick-or-treaters, with many local departments and community organizations offering tips and safety guidelines for the night. Be sure to check out the different Halloween events happening within our Second District, which are listed below.

Lastly, we close out the month of October with Día de los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead, a meaningful tradition celebrated from October 31 to November 2, honoring the lives of loved ones who have passed. This cultural celebration highlights the importance of family, memory, and the enduring bonds that tie us together.

As we move through October, let's take the time to reflect on the importance of community, safety, and our overall well-being. Whether it’s honoring cultural observances or taking steps to ensure our families are prepared for emergencies, each of us plays a vital role in keeping the Second District strong and resilient. I encourage you to take the time to participate in the various events and observances throughout the district. Let’s continue working together to make our community a safe, welcoming place for all.

Warmly,

Board Urges State Action to Stabilize Insurance Market Amid Crisis

In light of the recent wildfires impacting the residents of Riverside County, Supervisors Spiegel and Perez urged the Board Chair to send a letter to the California Insurance Commissioner, State Legislature, and Governor, calling for the declaration of a state of emergency and immediate action to stabilize the homeowners' and commercial property insurance markets in California. The insurance marketplace in the state has been severely impacted, with significant carriers reducing or ceasing the issuance of new policies, leaving consumers with limited options. This shortage affects homeowners' ability to protect their property, secure mortgages, and access necessary coverage. The letter stresses the importance of regulatory and legislative measures to ensure fair and affordable insurance rates while protecting Californians from catastrophic events, such as wildfires, which can devastate homes and businesses. A stable insurance market is essential for safeguarding residents and promoting ongoing housing development, particularly in affordable housing sectors. By addressing this crisis, the stability of the California FAIR Plan, a critical safety net for those unable to secure traditional insurance, will also be preserved.

Home Gardens Park

The Riverside County Board of Supervisors recently approved the budget to upgrade the field area at Home Gardens Academy, which will now serve as the official park for the Home Gardens community during non-school hours. This project represents years of collaboration between the County, the Corona-Norco Unified School District (CNUSD), and local stakeholders. The upgrade will provide a new recreational space for residents and marks a significant achievement in enhancing community resources. CNUSD, with its significant contribution, played a vital role in this effort, working closely with the County to bring the project to fruition.

Airport Fire Recovery Assistance

Riverside County coordinated a Local Assistance Center (LAC) to provide those affected by the Airport Fire access to information and resources from various county, state, and federal agencies and several non-governmental organizations. The LAC was held at the Lake Community Center in Lake Elsinore from September 19th through September 21st, offering impacted residents a centralized location to receive support. In the wake of the fire, donations are being accepted through the Inland SoCal United Way Wildfire Fund and The Salvation Army. However, food, water, and clothing donations are not being accepted at this time. To apply for assistance or donate, please visit https://inlandsocaluw.org/fire-fund. For more information on disaster recovery assistance, please visit the Riverside County Emergency Management Department's Disaster Recovery page at https://rivcoready.org/Recovery.

Supervisor Spiegel Chairs County’s Second Election Integrity Workshop

On September 11, 2024, Riverside County hosted a second workshop on Election Integrity at the County Administrative Center. This event brought together Supervisors Spiegel, Perez, and staff from the Registrar of Voters’ Office and engaged community members. Featuring presentations from the Registrar of Voters and County Counsel, the workshop provided a vital public forum where voters could access important information, ask questions, and offer feedback on the electoral process. The Election Advisory Committee, which organized the workshop, continues its mission to recommend improvements to the Board of Supervisors, the Executive Office, and the Registrar of Voters to enhance voter engagement and confidence in the integrity of local elections. To watch the full workshop, visit https://rivco.org/election-advisory.

From left to right: Supervisor Karen Spiegel, George Ruiz, Jeanie Corral, Steve Libring, Caroline Gregory, Squeaker Bootsma, Martha Paresa, and George Cole (not pictured)

On behalf of the Riverside County Second District, we want to extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who attended and supported our Second Annual Senior Legacy Awards at the Skyview Event Center last month. Your presence truly made the event a remarkable success as we came together to honor our extraordinary seniors.

We want to recognize all of our sponsors, whose contributions were critical to the success of the event. A heartfelt thank you goes to Amazon, our Senior Champion Sponsor, for stepping up significantly and demonstrating exceptional support for this meaningful occasion. View our full list of sponsors.

In addition to celebrating our honorees, a donation was made to each awardee's selected nonprofit organization in honor of their outstanding service. Below are the names of our awardees, along with their respective cities and chosen nonprofits:

Steve Libring - City of Canyon Lake - Paralyzed Veterans of America
Caroline Gregory - City of Corona - Corona Senior Center
Squeaker Bootsma - City of Eastvale - Eastvale Kiwanis Club
George Ruiz - City of Jurupa Valley - Jurupa Valley Adopt a Family
Jeanie Corral - City of Lake Elsinore - Lake Elsinore Historical Society
Martha Paresa - City of Norco - Norco Senior Pets
George Cole - County of Riverside - American Red Cross

Congratulations again to all of our outstanding awardees! Your dedication to your communities is not just inspiring, but it sets a standard for all of us to aspire to. It was a privilege to celebrate your achievements. I also want to express our thanks to the cities of Norco, Jurupa Valley, Eastvale, Corona, Canyon Lake, and Lake Elsinore, along with all of the officials and representatives who participated. Your involvement helped to make this event even more special.

Thank you for making this year’s Senior Legacy Awards an unforgettable experience. I am already looking forward to the next one and the opportunity to see everyone again next year! Your continued support and participation are what make these events so special. Watch the recap here!

The Second District Team Welcomes Bright Now Dental Back to Lake Elsinore

Our staff was excited to join the Lake Elsinore Valley Chamber at the Grand Re-Opening of Bright Now! Dental. Read more...

Second District Team Joins Eastvale Chamber of Commerce at Grand Opening of Tenmaya Japanese Restaurant

The Second District Team had the honor of joining the Eastvale Chamber of Commerce to celebrate the Grand Opening of Tenmaya Japanese Restaurant. Read more...

Supervisor Spiegel attends the Jurupa Valley State of the City, Celebrating Progress and Future Initiatives

The Supervisor was pleased to attend the Jurupa Valley State of the City, where attendees received important updates on the progress made over the past year and exciting plans for the year ahead. Read more...

Second District Team Celebrates First Anniversary of Airport Cafe Express in Norco

The Second District Team was excited to attend Airport Cafe Express's first-anniversary celebration in Norco. Read more...

Supervisor Spiegel and Second District Team Celebrate Grand Opening of Le Rendez-Vous Cafe in Lake Elsinore

Supervisor Spiegel and her Second District Team were delighted to celebrate the grand opening of Le Rendez-Vous Cafe in Lake Elsinore. Read more...

Supervisor Spiegel Participates in Key Conversations at Latino Economic & Policy Summit

Supervisor Spiegel attended the Inland Empire Economic Partnership's Latino Economic & Policy Summit at the Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art and Culture. Read more...

The Second District Office Hosts Community Roundtable in Warm Springs to Foster Engagement and Address Local Needs

At the Community Roundtable in Warm Springs, Supervisor Spiegel facilitated an event where residents received essential updates directly from various Riverside County department heads. Read more...

Riverside County Veterans Stand Down Provides Resources to County Veterans

Supervisor Spiegel had the privilege of attending the Riverside County Veterans Stand Down at the March Air Reserve Base, where she witnessed the impact of an array of resources dedicated to our veterans, covering everything from housing and healthcare to employment assistance. Read more...

Supervisor Spiegel Engages with Transportation Professionals at Mobility 21 Summit

The Supervisor enjoyed attending this year's Mobility 21 Summit, Welcome to the Jungle. Read more...

Riverside County's Transportation Future Takes the Spotlight in Washington, D.C.

Supervisor Spiegel's time in Washington, D.C., was productive and impactful as she advocated for Riverside County’s transportation future. Read more...

Supervisor Spiegel Joins the Fun at Corona Lions Club Pancake Breakfast for Student Scholarships

Supervisor Spiegel enjoyed attending the Corona Lions Club's annual pancake breakfast. Read more...

Second District Team Hosts Free Dog Wellness Clinic in El Cerrito

In partnership with the Second District office, the Riverside County Department of Animal Services hosted a free dog wellness clinic in El Cerrito. Read more...

Supervisor Spiegel Attends 'Be The One' Suicide Prevention Presentation Hosted by American Legion Post 328 - Norco

Supervisor Karen Spiegel was honored to attend the 'Be The One' suicide prevention support presentation at American Legion Post 328 in Norco, where she joined veterans, supporters, and community members to raise awareness and provide critical resources. Read more...

Second District Office Attends 17th Annual Heroes With Heart Awards Gala to Honor First Responders

The Second District Office was honored to attend the 17th Annual Heroes With Heart Awards Gala and Fundraiser hosted by the Trauma Intervention Program (TIP) of Riverside County. Read more...

Second District Office Attends Veterans' Legislative Breakfast Highlighting Burial Benefits at Riverside National Cemetery

The Second District Office attended the Veterans' Advisory Council's Legislative Breakfast, which drew a full house and featured essential updates from the Riverside National Cemetery. Read more...

Supervisor Spiegel Supports Inspire Life Skills' 19th Annual Make a Difference Gala

Supervisor Spiegel was pleased to join the fundraising efforts at Inspire Life Skills' 19th Annual Make a Difference Gala, an evening dedicated to supporting an incredible program that helps break the cycle of abuse and poverty. Read more...

Supervisor Spiegel Hosts Woodcrest MAC Meeting to Address Community Concerns

Supervisor Spiegel hosted the Woodcrest Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) meeting, where residents gathered to receive important updates directly from various department heads. Read more...

Supervisor Spiegel Assesses Damage from Devastating Airport Fire Alongside County Fire Chief

Supervisor Spiegel toured the hills above Lake Elsinore alongside our County Fire Chief to assess the damage caused by the devastating Airport Fire. Read more...

Supervisor Spiegel Joins Jurupa Valley VFW in Honoring Patriot Day with Solemn 9/11 Commemoration

Bright and early, Supervisor Spiegel started her Patriot Day at Jurupa Valley’s VFW Post 10267 for their annual Patriot Day commemoration. Read more...

City of Norco Hosts Powerful Patriot Day Remembrance Ceremony at Fire Station #47

The Second District team attended the City of Norco’s Patriot Day Remembrance Ceremony at Norco Fire Station #47. Read more...

Patriot Day Ceremony at Eastvale Fire Station Honors 9/11 Victims

Supervisor Spiegel had the honor of attending the Patriot Day ceremony at Eastvale Fire Station #27. Read more...

Corona Patriot Day Remembrance Ceremony Honors 9/11 Survivor and Fallen Heroes

Supervisor Spiegel had the privilege of joining the City of Corona and the Corona Chamber at the Patriot Day remembrance ceremony at the Corona Historic Civic Center. Read more...

Supervisor Spiegel Supports Groundbreaking Research at Destroy Duchenne Annual Gala

It was an unforgettable evening at the Destroy Duchenne Annual Gala, where Supervisor Spiegel had the privilege of joining an incredible community united by a shared vision: a future free from the devastating effects of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Read more...

Supervisor Spiegel Joins Volunteers in Corona in Honoring 9/11 Victims with Patriot Day Flag Tribute

Supervisor Spiegel joined dozens of volunteers in placing 2,977 American flags on the Historic Civic Center lawn in solemn observance of Patriot Day. Read more...

Board of Supervisors Recognize National Preparedness Month

Supervisor Spiegel and her colleagues on the Riverside County Board of Supervisors proudly presented a proclamation to the Riverside County Emergency Management Department, officially recognizing September as National Preparedness Month. Read more...

Supervisor Spiegel Honors Veterans at Annual BBQ Hosted by Blue Star Mothers and American Legion Post 742

A heartfelt thank you to the Blue Star Mothers H.O.M.E. CA30 and the Joe Dominguez American Legion Post 742 for hosting the Annual Veterans BBQ at the Corona Veterans Center. Read more...

Anytime Fitness Returns to Corona's Second District Under New Ownership

Supervisor Spiegel welcomed Anytime Fitness of Corona back to the Second District under new ownership and is thrilled to see this local business return to the community and support its dedication to health and wellness. Read more...

Supervisor Spiegel Welcomes Vasquez Flooring to the Second District at Grand Opening Ceremony

Supervisor Spiegel was pleased to attend the Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Vasquez Flooring Inc. in Corona. Read more...

Second District Team Shows Support for New Local Business Offering Unique Collectible Treasures

The Second District team was pleased to join the Lake Elsinore Valley Chamber of Commerce for the Grand Opening of Shipwrecked Collectibles. Read more...

Spread Moore Love Photo Booths Marks Third Anniversary with Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony

Congratulations to Spread Moore Love Photo Booths on celebrating your third anniversary with a special ribbon-cutting ceremony. Read more...

Supervisor Spiegel Joins Community in Honoring Jannlee Watson at Temescal Valley Celebration of Life

Supervisor Spiegel attended the Celebration of Life for Jannlee Watson, a truly beloved figure in Temescal Valley. Read more...

Supervisor Spiegel Leads Town Hall for Residents in Lakeland Village

Supervisor Spiegel hosted the Lakeland Village Town Hall, bringing the community together to hear updates and learn about various projects happening in their neighborhood. Read more...

District Two Welcomes Par 3 Sports Bar & Grill to Corona

Supervisor Spiegel’s office was pleased to welcome Par 3 Sports Bar & Grill to Corona during last week's Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting Ceremony. Read more...

Steve Libring - City of Canyon Lake

Every year, the Second District Senior Legacy Awards honors individuals who have made a lasting impact on their communities, celebrating the dedication and passion of those who have worked tirelessly to improve the lives of others. This year, we recognize Steve Libring from the City of Canyon Lake for his unwavering commitment and leadership.

Steve began traveling to Canyon Lake when he was 16 to water ski and bought his property there when he was 20 years old. Steve immediately started volunteering to help, and his first community service effort was clearing weeds off Skipper’s Island. He moved to Canyon Lake permanently in 1983 with his wife to raise their four children.

Steve has been a part of many committees, such as the Lake Lease Committee, Security Committee, Facilities Planning Committee, Reserve Committee, and the Lake Dredging Committee. Steve states, “My passion has always been to use my skills to better the community and guide Board members in their decision-making.” Using his background as a licensed Traffic Engineer, Steve developed a spending plan to restore all roads within Canyon Lake and saved the community $8 million dollars. Steve has worked with the Bankruptcy Court to get a special assessment approved to fund reserves, Negotiated a new 99-year lease on surface rights to save the community millions of dollars, and raised funds for building the signal at the Main Gate.

Steve was instrumental in building many new amenities within Canyon Lake, such as the Bike Pump Track, Pickleball Courts, median landscaping, and road resurfacing. Using his background as a licensed real estate agent, Steve volunteered to serve at Canyon Lake Community Church and counsel young couples on budget and finances to help them establish a financial plan, reorganize and pay off debts, and/or purchase a home.

Steve has been on the Board of the Pickleball Club for over eight years, has helped grow the sport within their community, and has increased the membership from 20 to just under 600.

Steve expresses, “I love Canyon Lake and will spend the rest of my days living here and never stop volunteering.”

Destroy Duchenne

Destroy Duchenne is a nonprofit organization driven by the vision of a prosperous future free from the suffering caused by diseases like Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Founded by Elijah Stacy, a young individual determined to find a cure for his own disease, the organization aims to make a significant impact by pushing the boundaries of science and medicine. Their mission is to "Complete the Cure™" for Duchenne by advancing innovative gene-editing and gene therapy technologies into human practice.

At its core, Destroy Duchenne is fueled by the belief that curing diseases is the next monumental step for humanity. They seek to inspire and unite those who are eager to make history by eradicating illnesses and restoring health to those afflicted. The organization envisions a world where children grow up not limited by disease but empowered to solve the world's greatest challenges, driving progress for all of humanity. Learn more...

County of Riverside Transportation Department

The County of Riverside Transportation Department is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life and promoting economic development in the region by providing courteous, efficient, and cost-effective services. Their focus is on managing and improving a safe, efficient, and convenient transportation system that boosts the mobility of people, goods, and services. Learn more...

County of Riverside Emergency Management Department

The County of Riverside Emergency Management Department (EMD), established in 2015, enhances community safety and security through an integrated, all-hazards approach to emergency management. The department focuses on the four key phases: mitigation, preparation, response, and recovery, ensuring a unified response to emergencies and disasters. Learn more...

Riverside County Fire Department

The Fire Department is a public safety agency focused on protecting life, property, and the environment with professionalism, integrity, and efficiency. Committed to exemplary customer service, the department aims to lead fire protection and emergency services by continually improving and innovating. Learn 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
Fair Board
Veterans Advisory Committee

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

Now Recruiting: Boards, Committees & Commissions

Board of Supervisors Meetings:

October 1 - 9:30 a.m. at 4080 Lemon St., 1st Floor, Riverside, CA 92501. Learn more...
October 8 - 9:30 a.m. at 4080 Lemon St., 1st Floor, Riverside, CA 92501. Learn more...
October 15 - NO MEETING
October 22 - 9:30 a.m. at 4080 Lemon St., 1st Floor, Riverside, CA 92501. Learn more...
October 29 - 9:30 a.m. at 4080 Lemon St., 1st Floor, Riverside, CA 92501. Learn more...

Municipal/Community Advisory Council Meetings:

Temescal Valley MAC - October 9 at 6:30 p.m. at Trilogy, Lake Center Building, Tahoe Room, 24477 Trilogy Parkway, Temescal Valley, CA 92883. Learn more...
Woodcrest MAC - NO MEETING. Learn more...
Lakeland Village CAC - NO MEETING. Learn more...