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12 SOLERA DIAMOND VALLEY | AUGUST 2025 By Julie Martin, Board Member We all know the name Diamond Valley Lake, but what do you know about the lake itself ? Well, here are a few facts about our great lake. Planning for the lake began in 1987. e main goal was to meet Southern California's seasonal drought and emergency needs. Metropolitan Water District (MWD) chose the current site because of its geographical location and began construction planning in 1993. Construction of the lake began in 1995 with construction of the three dams. With over 40 million cubic yards of foundation excavation and 110 million yards of embankment construction, the construction of the dams was the largest earthworks project in the United States. e shovels, loaders, and trucks used were the largest available and proved to be a new standard for earth and rock movement. e three dams consist of the West Dam, East Dam and Saddie Dam. All three dams make up the reservoir. e lling of the lake began in 1999. Diamond Valley Lake oers shing and light boating. A recreation park, aquatic center, visitor center, and the Western Science Center, along with the lake marina, are located on the eastern end of the lake. A viewpoint, oering views of the pumping station and I/O (intake/outake) tower, along with most of the lake, is located on the western end of the lake. e reserve is home to at least 16 sensitive, endangered, or threatened native California birds, animals, and plant species. So, when you get an opportunity to check her out, you will be amazed. By Clare Mendez, Resident With the temperatures rising outside you may be tempted to stay in the air conditioning, chilling-out at home, but as you know, it's better to get a good physical workout at least a few times a week. Get up, get dressed, and get going. It isn't necessary to sweat like a pig. Let's explore a few options available here at SDV. If you prefer slow, yet impactful stretches, you may want to consider Pilates, or Tai chi classes. Instructor-led Flex and Stretch classes are oered ursday mornings. Or, do your own stretches at the gym. (Tip: It's benecial to watch yourself in the mirror to be sure you are not slouching and you are holding your body in proper position for the exercises you're performing.) Ready for some moderate exercise? Again, the gym in the lodge has bicycles, treadmills, and a climate- controlled walking track upstairs. Walking Aerobics is done with the aid of a video instructor and Monica Avera oers Water Aerobics twice a week. Pam Grider teaches Tap Dance Class, and Charlie Cashen teaches Line Dancing. Many residents comment on how much fun they have doing these workouts together. Water volleyball is played twice a week on Tuesday and Friday mornings. I participate in it, and we laugh as much as we play. All the players are patient and are there just to have a good time. I encourage you to give it a try even if you have zero experience like I did when I started. I'm just now building my courage to hit the ball over the net. Although Ping Pong looks intense, it is not. Everyone starts with learning a few techniques and with practice you get better. Even when the tables are not set up, I've found that the monitors will pull one out for you if the room is available. en you can practice with a friend to build your condence. Most of the outdoor sports take a bit of exertion and sweat, such as Pickleball and Tennis. Sadly, due to the annoying gnats and the heat index, bocce ball is postponed until October. Dan Frey will send out blasts when they start up again. When we moved here, a resident who has moved away, had a group called Bikes and Hikes. I miss that opportunity to ride along with others. Perhaps you can take that over. If you don't see something that strikes your fancy, why not start a group yourself ? Actually, that's how all these dances, games, and clubs got started. One person sent out an invitation to a few others and voilà, a group or club was born. Still not ready to get started in a physical activity? No sweat. e next best thing is to play. ere are so many choices when it comes to that. Games galore are played here at Solera. Take a look at the calendar section of e View or the back pages for descriptions and contact information. Your focus should be on health and socializing. Don't Sweat It Diamond Valley Lake

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