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I'm writing this article in early August and today is another 100+ degree day. At this point I'm beginning to think the sun has forgotten how to go home. I don't think I'll open my mail on Aug. 14… that's when my electric bill comes. Our air conditioner has been working so hard that it wants vacation time, overtime, and it's own reserved parking space. During the middle of the day, foot traffic is rare. Most neighbors are either safely indoors or moving from one air-conditioned location to another with the speed and determination of Olympic athletes. The birds are quiet, the sidewalks are empty, and nobody is mowing a lawn until late evening, when the temperature drops to a refreshing 97 degrees. But just as we begin wondering whether summer will ever end, a new challenge may be waiting around the corner: SUPER EL NINO. Now is the time to be proactive and prepare for possible storms. Have a roofer check that your roof tiles are properly positioned. Ask a handyman to clean your roof drains and make sure the backyard drainage routes are clear all the way to the street. It's also a good idea to stock up on food and household necessities before the storms arrive. That way, you can stay comfortable at home instead of competing for the last loaf of bread while rain is coming down sideways. And don't forget the essentials: f lashlights, fresh batteries, generator fuel, puzzles, books and perhaps a few snacks. After all, emergency preparedness is much easier when accompanied by cookies. I'm reminding all of you to do these things because I know myself. If I don't make a list, I may forget everything and end up borrowing supplies from a neighbor like one of you. My only concern is that my neighbor may be following the same plan. But, seriously, let's all prepare early, look out for one another, and be ready for whatever September and October brings, whether it's sunshine, storms, or another electricity bill that requires a moment of quiet ref lection. Be safe… be happy… stay healthy… keep smiling. Message from the Board of Directors 2 | Four Seasons Hemet Herald | SEPTEMBER 2026 | Sincerely, and on behalf of your Board of Directors, Cliff Post, Mary Reyna, Rick Adkins, Dan Ramos, Barbra Balser, Paul Barr, Pam Hayter Cliff Post, President Supervisor's Message By Supervisor Yxstian Gutierrez Getting around could be a challenge for our seniors, but it doesn't have to be! One of the resources we have available to seniors in Riverside County is the Transportation Reimbursement and Information Project (TRIP). TRIP is a service that allows seniors to recruit their own volunteer drivers, like a friend, neighbor, or a family member, and get mileage reimbursement. I'm proud to share that my office provided $2,500 in CID funding to help keep this program running for our residents. TRIP supports older adults and people with disabilities who are unable to drive, and public transportation is not an option. Eligible destinations include medical appointments, errands, grocery shopping, visiting family and friends, church and community activities, and other essentials. In addition, there is no cost to the trip rider. If you or a loved one could benefit from this service, call (951) 653-0740.