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Mt. San Jacinto students are gaining professional experience in regenerative medicine, molecular biology, neuroscience, and genetics.

Toni McAllister, Patch Staff

TEMECULA, CA — The California Institute of Regenerative Medicine is the first-ever taxpayer-funded agency in the United States dedicated to accelerating the development of innovative cell and gene therapies to treat a vast array of diseases.

The institute also offers college students life-changing internship opportunities in biomedical research laboratories, and students from Mt. San Jacinto College are among the beneficiaries.

The Bridges to the Stem Cell Research Program, funded by the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine, has placed outstanding MSJC biology students in one-year, paid internships with host labs across the region, including the Salk Institute for Biological Sciences, UC San Diego, and Cal State San Marcos.

The program is designed to provide interns with professional experience in regenerative medicine, molecular biology, neuroscience, and genetics, helping them prepare for advanced degrees and careers in science and medicine.

The 2024–2025 MSJC intern cohort exemplifies the program. Students like Ashley Berg, Kenneth Muñoz, and Angelina McCarron earned placements in some of the state's most prestigious research institutions.

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Berg, of Murrieta, is currently interning at the Salk Institute for Biological Sciences, where she uses confocal microscopy and immunofluorescence to study neurodegenerative diseases.

Berg credits MSJC’s affordability and faculty mentorship for helping her discover her passion for science.

"If it weren’t for MSJC, I never would have discovered my love for biology or had access to an opportunity like this," Berg said. "Taking biology with Dr. Reeves changed everything for me — I switched majors and found a path I truly love."

Dr. Nick Reeves is an MSJC associate professor and chair of biological sciences. He is also an important mentor, according to the students.

For example, Perris resident Kenneth Muñoz is a biology major. He is conducting gene therapy research on diseased mouse models at the University of California, San Diego's School of Medicine. His work includes advanced techniques like ddPCR and electron microscopy.

Muñoz, who hopes to become a pediatrician with an M.D./Ph.D., emphasized the role MSJC played in his journey.

"MSJC helped me realize my full potential," Muñoz said. "From the classroom to the Learning Resource Center to the guidance of Dr. Reeves, I had a support system that believed in me and prepared me for this kind of research."

Angelina McCarron, a San Diego resident, works in Dr. Kelly Frazer’s lab at UCSD and supports DNA sequencing projects at the Institute for Genomic Medicine. Her internship experience includes genome editing and modeling cardiac disorders using CRISPR-Cas9.

McCarron said she is excited about the breadth of lab work she’s experienced so far.

"I first heard about the CIRM internship through MSJC’s Honors Program, and that moment truly changed my life," McCarron said. "MSJC gave me a place to explore research, grow my confidence, and ultimately compete for a spot in one of the most respected labs in the country."

Looking ahead to the 2025-2026 interns cohort, two exceptional students have been selected to begin their CIRM internships this summer:

Joia Miller of Murrieta will conduct research at UCSD and CSUSM in the CIRM Bridges Program while preparing for a career as a neurosurgeon and stem cell researcher.

"MSJC gave me a chance, and the biology and anthropology/philosophy departments helped me focus my interests," Miller said. "The mentorship I’ve received is unmatched."

Hannah Rosario of Fallbrook plans to pursue a Ph.D. and a future in academia. She said she looks forward to gaining lab experience and building resilience through challenges.

"MSJC’s support, especially through the Honors Program and tutoring, made this internship possible," Rosario said.

Dr. Reeves, who has guided dozens of students through the internship application and research process, said, "These internships provide students with high-impact experiences typically only accessible at major universities. MSJC is proud to be a bridge for students into the world of advanced scientific research and graduate education."

MSJC has campuses in Banning, Menifee, San Jacinto, and Temecula.

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A Temecula teacher and her 8-year-old student rang the bell at Rady Children's Hospital one year after her living kidney donation.

Ashley Ludwig, Patch Staff

City News Service, News Partner

|Updated Tue, Apr 22, 2025 at 4:29 pm PT

TEMECULA, CA — Donating an organ, even one you can live without, is a big decision. For Temecula Special Education teacher Tiffany Minor, donating her kidney to a student in need was nothing but a "blessing," she said. "God had his hand on this; the odds of being a match are pretty low."

This week, Minor and the boy she donated her kidney to, James, along with others, celebrated their success as one of the 11 kidney transplant patients in 2024 at Rady Children's Hospital. She recalled the fall day in 2023 at Crowne Hill when she noticed James, who was not doing well at that time.

"I noticed him sitting on a beanbag, not really doing much. I said as much to his dad, and he told me he was really struggling. He was on dialysis," she said. "So I asked what I could do to look into becoming a donor and started on the path."

Minor spent the next five months learning how to become a living kidney donor for James, and if possible, she could be a match for him.

On Valentine's Day, 2024, she learned she was a match. The pair went into surgery two weeks later, on March 1, she said. Since that time, James has transformed into a happy, healthy boy.

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Dr. Elizabeth Ingulli, a transplant nephrologist and the medical director of Rady Children's Hospital's Kidney Transplant Program, said that anyone who decides to be an organ donor can save lives.

"We have living donors here who gave the gift of life," she said. "But we also have the families of deceased donors who have done an amazing thing and given their loved one's organs to people who needed them. This is such a happy event, each and every one of the kids are just ecstatic. Being on dialysis is not fun for a child, and so they are just so grateful."

Ingulli said some of the donors didn't even know the recipient personally, but behaved altruistically because they could. She encouraged anyone who is able to sign up as an organ donor.National Donate Life Month is observed to "help raise awareness about donation and encourage Americans to register as organ and tissue donors, and to honor those who have helped save lives through the gift of donation," according to Rady.

According to Organdonor.gov, there are more than 170 million registered organ donors in the United States. However, not everyone who has chosen to become a donor can donate. Only around three in 1,000 people die in a way that allows for deceased organ donation.

There are more than 100,000 Americans on the national transplant waiting list, nearly 90,000 for kidneys. Seventeen people die each day waiting for an organ transplant. More than 48,000 transplants were performed in 2024.

"Donation in general is a blessing," Minor said. "It's a blessing to [the recipients] so they can live healthy lives, but it's also a blessing to you. It's a gift."

To sign up to be an organ donor, visit www.organdonor.gov/sign-up.

The California Park & Recreation Society (CPRS) recognized the City of Temecula with two Awards of Excellence: one in Marketing & Communications and one in Facility Design.

CPRS Awards recognize outstanding achievement in the areas of facility design, park planning, marketing and communication, and community improvement and Innovative programming. Award winners represent the finest in initiatives addressing community issues, recreation programming, park planning, facility design, and marketing and communications in California.

City of Temecula Council Member and Community Services District President Zak Schwank states, “We are very proud to have earned another two California Park & Recreation Society (CPRS) Awards of Excellence for Temecula Community Services’ Social Media and Public Works’ Facility Design for the Margarita Recreation Center. The ‘Best of the Best’ are truly here, at the City of Temecula, and we applaud Team Temecula’s hard work, creativity, and dedication as public servants consistently exemplifying excellence in our hometown and statewide.”

The City of Temecula received the following two CPRS Awards of Excellence:

Marketing & Communications / TCSD Social Media

Excellence in print, audio visual, or electronic communications promoting the agency’s public parks, facilities, recreation, or leisure services programs externally and successfully demonstrated an increased level of public awareness or are used to enhance the agency’s internal communications to staff, policy makers, or current program participants.

Facility Design / Margarita Recreation Center

Excellence in design of completed aquatic, recreation, and/or cultural facilities intended for public use (either new construction or rehabilitation project) demonstrating high standards of planning, design, community involvement, operation and maintenance, quality of aesthetics, usability, accessibility and versatility. It further recognizes design / construction or significant rehabilitation of buildings, structures and facilities used primarily to support park and recreation purposes.

About CPRS Created in 1946, CPRS provides leadership and resources to promote the role of parks and recreation in creating community through people, parks, and programs. CPRS is a membership organization with just over 4,000 members from parks and recreation agencies throughout California. CPRS advances the profession and its members through education, networking, resources, and advocacy. Learn more at cprs.org.

Want to feel like you're in Europe without breaking the bank or spending over 10 hours on a plane? Temecula may be your best SoCal option.

TEMECULA, CA — A Temecula Valley wine resort was recently named among the cities in the Golden State that feel "the most like being in Europe."

Many Temecula wineries have adopted a Tuscan feel, according to Travel + Leisure—still, one in particular offers the flavors of three countries under one mantle. Meet Europa Village Wineries and Resort, situated just past the gateway on Rancho California Road.

Owner Dan Stephenson planned the winery and has evolved and changed over the years since the first of the three tasting rooms was constructed.

"Our story began in the 1970s, when a young businessman named Dan Stephenson visited Europe for the first time and fell in love with the countryside, the food and wine, the culture and the lifestyle," the website states. "From then on, he had a passion to share his experiences with whomever crossed his path. Thirty years later, Dan and his friend purchased more than 300 acres of land in the Temecula Valley Wine Country. At that moment, his dream to bring Europe and her old-world charms to our corner of the world sprang to life." Europa Village was born and the strategy for a multi-winery resort was carefully crafted and began rolling out phase by phase, one exciting destination at a time."

Now, guests and wine club members can visit three highly walkable European-style wineries, tasting rooms, and restaurants in one stop. The resort features distinctive wines and flavors from Italy, France, and Spain in its three separate tasting rooms, each designed to reflect the look and feel of its respective country.

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The wine club features wines from all three locales. It offers a full calendar of unique experiences for visitors and members, ranging from winemaker-led mixology sessions to exclusive food and wine pairings and theatrical events. There is always something going on at Europa Village Wineries.

The labels at each winery reflect the region: guests can sample Italian wines at Vienza Winery, toast with authentic French wine at C'est La Vie Winery, or indulge in Spanish wines and savory flavors at Bolero Winery and restaurant.

Photo Credit: Europa Village Wineries And Resort

On a Friday afternoon, Patch stopped by to visit with Europa Village General Manager John Goldsmith to learn about the upcoming expansions and explore a bit of Spain, Italy, and France in our backyard.

Views from Vienza at Europa Village Wineries and Resort.

Each of the three separate buildings, and even the paths that connect them, is a bit like "Disneyland for grown-ups," with hidden gems around every corner.

Europa Village Wineries and Resort is a feast for the senses as you walk from building to building. Each "country" features hand-painted murals, carved sculptures, ornate metalwork, authentic, carved wood gates and doors, and meticulously crafted stonework. Everywhere you walk, you'll see fine craftsmanship and attention to detail.

But let's start our visit in Spain, at the Bolero Winery.

Visit Spain At Europa Village Bolero Winery:

Bolero Winery offers visitors a taste of Spain, from the tapas to the wine. The first of the completed Europa Village Wineries and Resort expansion, Bolero offers not only a tasting room (try the Libido, and thank us later) but also a tapas-style restaurant that explores the regional flavors of Spain.

If you fancy shareable platters, the Bolero menu is tops.

Photo Credit: Ashley Ludwig/Patch Staff

This local favorite offers delicious wine to pair with platters of delicacies, such as short ribs, unique Caesar salad rolled in paper-thin jicama, or—our favorite — the highly shareable, subtly spicy empanadas.

Bolero also offers casitas for overnight stays at their Bolero Casitas. The wine resort also offers rooms at the recently remodeled, exclusive Europa Village hilltop inn, with its stunning vineyard views. Featuring Sip and Stay prices, this is yet another way to extend your journey while visiting Temecula Valley Wine Country.

Visit Italy In Temecula: Europa Village Vienza Winery:

If Italy is more to your liking, Vienza Winery welcomes visitors with a broad, curving staircase worthy of the Spanish Steps in Rome. Climb them to reach an Old World Italy-style tasting room and market, or have a sampling of gelato. (A hidden elevator is available in the Vienza wine cave at the bottom of the stairs for those who need a lift.) This is a spot with breathtaking views, a secret garden, and stunning wines.

Vienza offers a marketplace-style grocery, a counter-service restaurant, and a wood-fired pizza shop.

Vienza features a grand ballroom, along with a wraparound porch that offers stunning views of Temecula Valley Wine Country.

Vienza Winery will expand to a 40-room resort hotel and spa. Plans are in place for the expansion, earmarked to overlook the tasting room and garden area. The hotel will be a pinnacle of Europa Village Wineries and Resort.

Visit France In Temecula: Europa Village C'est La Vie Winery

If you love France, stroll over to C'est La Vie Winery. This boutique tasting room offers visitors samples of French wine in a bistro setting, worthy of the Champs-Élysées. Here, find tidbits and flavors fit for a picnic while you stroll through the gardens of what was the first iteration of Europa Village.

In the coming years, Stephenson is planning another bold move, with the construction of a French expansion, including a hotel, restaurant, and tasting room, following the completion of the Vienza Hotel and Spa.

So, where will you go and spend your time at Europa Village Wineries and Resort? When you go, tell them Patch sent you.

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MOULAY RACHID A ELBEKRAOUI SWSC, Neighbor

Southwest Soccer Club: A Legacy of Excellence, A Future Built on VisionFor over two decades, Southwest Soccer Club (SWSC) has stood as a pillar of passion, purpose, and progress within the Temecula Valley community. Founded in 2001, SWSC proudly holds the distinction of being the oldest soccer club in Temecula—a status earned not only by longevity but by an unwavering commitment to developing young athletes through the beautiful game.From its inception, SWSC’s mission has been clear: to cultivate talent in a competitive yet nurturing environment, and to instill the values of discipline, sportsmanship, and resilience. What began as a simple dream has grown into a dynamic institution—home to hundreds of players, families, and coaches united by a shared pursuit of excellence.Playing at the Highest LevelToday, Southwest Soccer Club, in collaboration with Sporting CA USA, competes on some of the most elite platforms in youth soccer. Our teams proudly represent the club in the SoCal League, Elite 64 (E64), the National League, and the ECNL Regional League (ECNL RL). These platforms provide more than just high-level competition—they open doors to college programs, professional pathways, and lifelong friendships forged through the sport.Tournaments That Build CommunityBeyond league play, SWSC Sporting CA USA proudly hosts six annual tournaments that bring together top-tier talent from across California and beyond. These premier events include:

Each tournament is more than a competition—it’s a celebration of soccer, community, and culture. They provide players with an elevated stage to perform, and families with unforgettable moments shared in the spirit of the game.A Global PerspectiveAt SWSC Sporting CA USA, we believe soccer is a global language—one that transcends borders and brings people together. That’s why we offer our players rare opportunities to travel internationally. From Spain and Italy to Mexico, Brazil, and Morocco, our athletes experience different cultures, playing styles, and coaching methods that broaden their horizons and shape them into not only better players but more worldly, confident individuals.Our Five Pillars of DevelopmentAt the heart of our club’s success lies a well-defined, intentional approach to development: the Five-Pillar Model. It guides every decision we make and reflects our commitment to excellence at every level.1. ClubThe club is the foundation. It represents our identity, culture, and continuity. At SWSC Sporting CA USA, we are more than a collection of teams—we are a family committed to developing strong character and leadership both on and off the field.2. IdentificationTalent is everywhere, and our mission is to find it early. We use a detailed and ongoing scouting process to identify players with skill, determination, and a hunger to grow. Whether a player joins us at age 8 or 18, our goal is to help them reach their highest potential.3. EducationWe don’t just train—we teach. From technical and tactical development to mindset, nutrition, and leadership, our holistic approach ensures players grow as both athletes and individuals. Our coaches are educators, mentors, and lifelong learners who challenge our players to think, adapt, and lead.4. EvaluationTrue growth requires honest, constructive feedback. Through consistent evaluations—based on training, match performance, and positional understanding—our players receive the clarity they need to progress with purpose.5. ExpansionAt SWSC Sporting CA USA, development isn’t limited by geography. Our players are exposed to elite local, national, and international competition. Whether on the fields of Southern California or the global stage, they are pushed to rise to every challenge and thrive under pressure.The Southwest Soccer Club Sporting CA USA StandardAt SWSC Sporting CA USA, we are building more than winning teams—we are building futures. Our alumni have gone on to play at top collegiate programs, represent national youth teams, and compete professionally. More importantly, they grow into leaders, scholars, and contributors to their communities.Our standard is not just to compete—but to lead, to inspire, and to elevate the game for generations to come.To all who have been part of this remarkable journey—players, parents, coaches, and supporters—thank you. The legacy we continue to build is only possible because of your trust, passion, and belief.The future is bright—and we’re just getting started.