Spiegel Spotlight: News for District 2 - March 2025

County of Riverside California - External sent this bulletin at 02/27/2025 08:00 AM PST

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

Dear Friends and Second District Residents,

As we welcome March, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible events and initiatives we have accomplished together this past month. Our community is built on collaboration, and I am grateful for every resident, business, and organization that contributes to making the Second District a wonderful place to live, work, and thrive.

This month, I had the privilege of participating in several meaningful events. I joined the Jurupa Area Recreation & Park District’s Inaugural Purple Power Girls Empowerment Conference, where young girls were inspired to lead with confidence and strength. Additionally, we celebrated the growth of our local businesses by welcoming La Taza Community Coffeehouse to Lake Elsinore, The Learning Experience to Corona, and Cold Stone Creamery to Jurupa Valley. We also marked a milestone for GreyWolf Brewery in Norco, celebrating five successful years of business.

Engaging directly with residents remains a top priority, which is why my office hosted the Home Gardens Community Town Hall at Home Gardens Academy. This event brought together County departments and local leaders to answer questions and provide updates on key community issues. I would like to thank our dedicated departments for their commitment to addressing residents' concerns and the Corona-Norco Unified School District for partnering with us to make this event possible. Open dialogue is essential to ensuring our community members have the resources they need, and we look forward to continuing these important discussions.

I was also proud to partner with Riverside County Animal Services and JCSD Parks & Recreation Department to host a free Dog Wellness Clinic and Adoption Event at Harada Heritage Park in Eastvale. It was heartwarming to see so many community members take advantage of this opportunity, whether by adopting a new furry friend or ensuring their pets received essential wellness services. About 155 pets came through the Wellness Adoption Event in Eastvale that were vaccinated and/or microchipped. Additionally, three dogs were adopted at this event. The following week in Home Gardens, we hosted another wellness clinic where 165 animals were vaccinated and/or microchipped. Thank you to everyone who contributed to making these events a success!

Additionally, my office hosted our Third Annual Homeless Symposium, which brought together city leaders, county officials, department heads, and service providers from across the Second District. Tackling homelessness requires a collaborative approach, and through thoughtful discussions, we identified key priority areas and explored ways to strengthen our partnerships to better serve those in need. I am grateful for the commitment of our local leaders and stakeholders in driving meaningful change, and I look forward to our continued progress in addressing this critical issue.

Looking ahead, I invite our Home Gardens residents to join us for a free neighborhood clean-up event on Saturday, March 8, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. (or until dumpsters are full). The drop-off location is at the corner of Grant St. and Magnolia Ave., with the line beginning on Grant St. For more details, visit rivcodistrict2.org/events/home-gardens-neighborhood-clean.

Thank you for staying engaged and involved in our community. Your participation and support make all the difference as we work together to build a brighter future for the Second District.

Warmly,

Home Gardens Neighborhood Clean-Up

In partnership with Supervisor Spiegel's office, the Riverside County Department of Code Enforcement will host a Home Gardens Neighborhood Clean-Up on Saturday, March 8, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. to noon on the Corner of Grant Street and Magnolia Avenue. The event will run until the dumpsters are full. The line will begin on Grant Street. Residents are encouraged to drop off their unwanted items for free. For more information on this event, please visit https://rivcodistrict2.org/events/home-gardens-neighborhood-clean.

Assistance Available for Fire-Affected Residents

Recovering from a fire can be overwhelming, but Riverside County is here to help. The Department of Building and Safety offers essential resources to assist residents whose properties have been damaged or destroyed. Whether you need guidance on debris removal, rebuilding permits, or available financial aid, support is just a click away. Visit building.rctlma.org/fire-assistance to access step-by-step instructions, permitting requirements, and recovery assistance programs to help you rebuild safely and efficiently. Don’t navigate this process alone—help is available!

County Launches Community Budget Priorities Survey

The County of Riverside is enhancing opportunities for community participation in its annual budget process with the launch of a budget priorities survey.

Residents are invited to provide input into how county taxpayer dollars are spent across county departments and services for the upcoming fiscal year.

The survey is part of an expanded effort to give Riverside County residents more opportunities to voice their opinions earlier in the budget development process.

“The goal is to make our budget process more inclusive and responsive to the needs of our diverse communities,” said Board Chair Chuck Washington, Third District Supervisor. “I’m excited to invite the community to help guide decisions that will impact the future of our region.”

The survey is available online in both English and Spanish. Participants can identify services of greater need in their areas, as well as indicate categories of spending to receive more or less funding. The County encourages all to participate.

To further enhance public engagement, the County will also host five budget workshops throughout the county in early 2025. This ensures accessibility for residents across the vast geographic area of Riverside County.

These workshops, will provide an opportunity for residents to learn about the budget process, share their perspectives, and offer input ahead of the annual budget hearings in June. More details on the workshops will be posted in early 2025.

“Engaging the community earlier in our budget planning is critical to ensuring that we are addressing the needs and priorities of our residents,” said Riverside County Executive Officer Jeff Van Wagenen. “This survey is a demonstration of the County's commitment to transparency and accountability. Community feedback will be used during the budget process to improve quality of life across the county. This is an important step, and we look forward to hearing from our community.”

Residents are encouraged to access the survey and provide their feedback in either English and Spanish. The survey will remain open until March 2025. The results will help inform decisions on the County’s budget for the upcoming fiscal year, which starts July 1.

Access the survey here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Rivconeeds.

Riverside County Proclaims March 2025 as Arts & Culture Month

At the Board of Supervisors meeting, March 2025 was officially recognized as Arts & Culture Month—a celebration of Riverside County’s rich history, diverse cultural representation, and vibrant arts community. Read more...

Riverside County Leaders Honored with CSAC Challenge Awards for Innovative Solutions

At the Board of Supervisor's meeting, board members proudly recognized Riverside County's innovative teams for their outstanding contributions. Read more...

Supervisors Spiegel and Gutierrez Commemorate Senator Cervantes’ Swearing-In at Citrus Park

Supervisor Spiegel joined Supervisor Gutierrez at the Community Swearing-In Ceremony for Senator Sabrina Cervantes at the California Citrus State Historic Park in Riverside. Read more...

Riverside County District Attorney Mike Hestrin Shares Public Safety Insights at Good Morning Corona

Supervisor Spiegel was pleased to attend this month’s Good Morning Corona event, where we had the opportunity to hear from Riverside County DA Mike Hestrin. Read more...

Circle City Car Wash Celebrates Grand Opening in Corona

Revving up for new business in Corona! Supervisor Spiegel's staff was pleased to attend the Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Circle City Car Wash and celebrate their addition to the Second District. Read more...

Temescal Valley MAC Meeting Works to Strengthens Community Bonds

This month’s Temescal Valley Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) meeting brought together residents, local leaders, and county officials to discuss key issues and opportunities shaping the community. Read more...

CHP Triumphs in Corona Rib Eating Challenge, Raising Funds for Fallen Officer Families

The City of Corona’s Rib Eating Challenge at Texas Roadhouse brought out the best competitors from the Corona Police Department and California Highway Patrol, all for a meaningful cause. Read more...

Mead Valley Wellness Village Topping Out Ceremony

Topping Out Celebration for Mead Valley’s 18-Acre Wellness Village

It was an exciting day as Supervisor Spiegel joined her colleagues on the Board of Supervisors, local leaders, and Riverside University Health System (RUHS) to celebrate a significant milestone—the topping out of the new 18-acre Wellness Village in Mead Valley. Read more...

Heroic CPR Saves Life at Jurupa Valley Metrolink Station

Not all heroes wear capes! A dedicated security guard at the Jurupa Valley/Pedley Metrolink station showcased incredible quick thinking and selflessness by performing CPR on a pedestrian on the station platform, ultimately saving their life. Read more...

Eastvale’s Annual Lantern Festival Shines Bright in Celebration of Culture and Community

The City of Eastvale’s Annual Lantern Festival once again brought the community together to celebrate culture, tradition, and unity. Read more...

Community Unites at Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser to Support Angels Over Cliffs

The community came together bright and early in support of a cause dedicated to making a real difference. Read more...

Second District Welcomes New Cold Stone Creamery in Jurupa Valley

The Second District office was excited to join the City of Jurupa Valley in celebrating the grand opening of their newest Cold Stone Creamery. Read more...

Second District Hosts Third Annual Homeless Symposium to Address Homelessness Through Collaboration

The Second District office hosted their Third Annual Homeless Symposium, bringing together city leaders, county officials, department heads, and service providers from across the Second District. Read more...

Crystal Roses Comedy Show Supports Children and Teens Battling Life-Threatening Health Challenges

Supervisor Spiegel had the pleasure of attending the Crystal Roses Comedy Show – Laughter is the Best Medicine, where Jack Kalvan delivered an evening of unforgettable laughter, juggling, and other activities, all for an incredible cause. Read more...

Jurupa Area Recreation & Park District Hosts 1st Annual Purple Power Girls Empowerment Conference

Supervisor Spiegel was honored to join the Jurupa Area Recreation & Park District at their 1st Annual Purple Power Girls Empowerment Conference – You Glow Girl! Read more...

Inland Empire Caucus Hosts 21st Annual Legislative Breakfast to Address Regional Needs

At the Inland Empire Caucus 21st Annual Legislative Breakfast, leaders, advocates, and service providers came together to discuss the critical needs in our region. Read more...

GreyWolf Brewery Celebrates Its 5th Anniversary Milestone

Cheers to 5 years of success for GreyWolf Brewery! Supervisor Spiegel's office joined the brewery's 5th-anniversary celebration last Saturday in Norco, where the community came together to recognize this incredible milestone. Read more...

Riverside County Animal Services Hosts Successful Dog Wellness Clinic and Adoption Event in Eastvale

Supervisor Spiegel's office partnered with Riverside County Animal Services and the JCSD Parks & Recreation Department to host a free Dog Wellness Clinic and Adoption Event at Harada Heritage Park in Eastvale. Read more...

Supervisor Spiegel Leads Pledge at Legislative Action Committee Meeting Hosted by Corona Chamber of Commerce

Supervisor Spiegel spoke and led the Pledge of Allegiance at the Corona Chamber of Commerce’s Legislative Action Committee Meeting where State Assemblymember Leticia Castillo was welcomed, and provided essential updates on legislation affecting the business sector. Read more...

Home Gardens Community Town Hall Connects Residents with Local Leaders and County Departments

Supervisor Spiegel's office hosted the Home Gardens Community Town Hall at Home Gardens Academy. Read more...

Corona Regional Medical Center Unveils Two State-of-the-Art Cardiac Cath Labs

The Corona Regional Medical Center has taken a significant step forward in advancing cardiac care with the grand opening of two state-of-the-art Cardiac Catheterization Labs. Read more...

The Learning Experience Celebrates Grand Opening in Corona

The Learning Experience, a premier early childhood education center, has officially opened its doors in Corona, bringing a new opportunity for young learners to thrive. Read more...

La Taza Community Coffeehouse Celebrates Grand Opening in Lake Elsinore

The Lake Elsinore community has a new gathering spot where coffee and connection come together. Read more...

New Public Art Installation Unveiled at Jurupa Area Recreation & Park District’s Art Reveal

Art, nature, and community converged in a vibrant celebration at the Jurupa Area Recreation & Park District’s (JARPD) Art Reveal last Friday. Read more...

Supervisor Spiegel Provides County Update at Jurupa Area Recreation and Park District Quarterly Meeting

Supervisor Karen Spiegel recently spoke at the Jurupa Area Recreation and Park District (JARPD) Quarterly Meeting at the Skyview Event Center. Read more...

Regional Women’s Conference Empowers Leaders in the Water Industry

Industry professionals gathered for the Regional Half-Day Women’s Conference hosted by the Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District’s (EVMWD) Advancing Women in Water and Wastewater Leadership Academy. Read more...

Riverside County Youth & Government Day Engages Future Leaders

Youth Advisory Council (YAC) members from all five districts stepped into the world of public service during Riverside County’s Youth & Government Day, gaining firsthand experience in local government operations. Read more...

Raising Cane’s Opens New Location in Jurupa Valley

Raising Cane’s has officially opened its doors in Jurupa Valley, bringing new jobs and another popular dining option to the community. Read more...

Civil Air Patrol Squadron 29 Honors Cadets at Annual Awards Night

Civil Air Patrol Squadron 29 celebrated the dedication and achievements of its cadets during the annual Awards Night, held at Corona High School. Read more...

Marth Paresa - City of Norco

Martha Paresa was born and raised on the Hawaiian island of Maui when Hawaii was a territory of the United States. As a young woman, she was the runner-up in the Miss Hawaii pageant and also danced in the Kodak Hula Show on Waikiki Beach. Martha married her husband on Oahu in 1963 and they moved with their three children to West Covina, California.

Martha joined the Bainbridge Club and met many new friends. She enjoyed dancing hula in the club’s yearly Hawaiian Show. While her children were in school, she enrolled in upholstery, woodworking, and stained glass classes. She later worked for Wells Fargo, retiring after 13 years. When Martha and her husband were empty nesters, they moved to a retirement community in Calimesa, California, where she was introduced to the craft of making greeting cards.

With the passing of her husband in 2015, she then moved with her son to Norco, California. Martha went to the Senior Center to play bingo and quickly felt very welcome. Many classes were offered, so she asked to teach a card class. She began with five or six women, and before she knew it, the class had 24 seniors enrolled. Shortly after, the COVID-19 pandemic hit and everyone was homebound. However, during that time, Martha made hundreds of cards and sent them to our Military every other month. When the Senior Center reopened, she resumed her classes. With the help of an assistant, classes now have about 14 or 18 community members, meeting every first and third Wednesday of each month.

Relay for Life of Corona/Riverside County

Relay for Life of Corona/Riverside County is a community-driven event dedicated to supporting the American Cancer Society's mission to eliminate cancer. This annual gathering brings together residents from Corona and the greater Riverside County area to honor cancer survivors, remember those lost to the disease, and raise funds for ongoing research and patient support services. Participants engage in team-based relay activities, symbolizing the continuous fight against cancer, and organize various fundraisers throughout the year to bolster their efforts. By fostering solidarity and hope, Relay for Life of Corona/Riverside County exemplifies the power of collective action in the battle against cancer. If you would like to participate in Supervisor Spiegel's team or donate to the Relay for Life Corona/Riverside County, please contact the Supervisor's office at (951) 955-1020 or district2@rivco.org. Learn more...

Community Action Partnership of Riverside County’s VITA Tax Program provides free tax preparation services to low and moderate income individuals and families with income up to $85,000. We have various locations available during the tax season (January 30 to April 15th) for your convenience. For more information, visit capriverside.org/volunteer-income-tax-assistance.

If you are interested in learning a new skill for yourself, family, and community, we have opportunities for you to become a VITA Volunteer. For more information on how you can gain FREE Tax Preparation training to become a VITA certified Tax Preparer, contact us at (951) 955-4900.

NOW RECRUITING: Boards, Committees & Commissions

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

Now accepting applications for:

Fair Board
Children and Families Advisory Committee
Emergency Medical Care Committee

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

Board of Supervisors Meetings:

March 4 - NO MEETING
March 11 - 9:30 a.m. at 4080 Lemon St., 1st Floor, Riverside, CA 92501. Learn more...
March 18 - 9:30 a.m. at 4080 Lemon St., 1st Floor, Riverside, CA 92501. Learn more...
March 25 - NO MEETING

Municipal/Community Advisory Council Meetings:

Temescal Valley MAC - March 12 at 6:30 p.m. at The Tahoe Room at Trilogy at 24477 Trilogy Parkway, Temescal Valley, CA 92883. Learn more...
Woodcrest MAC - March 13 at 6:00 p.m. at the Woodcrest Library at 16625 Krameria Ave, Riverside, CA 92504. Learn more...
Lakeland Village CAC - NO MEETING. Learn more...