On Becoming a Member of C.E.R.T.
By Dick Lutz
It sounded complicated and time consuming to join this service organization. After the devastating floods in New Orleans, the earthquakes in San Francisco and Oakland, along with the expanding wild fire danger in California, President Bush saw the need for such a corps to assist public agencies in saving life and property.
The actual time to become familiar with preparation for the execution of the expected tasks was limited to three weekend days totaling 20 hours.
It all started in April of 2003. Following the example of the Los Angeles Fire Department, the City of Murrieta Fire Department sponsored their own Community Emergency Response Team (C.E.R.T.) for Bear Creek residents. We were encouraged to recognize that community access to outside help, by land or by air, may not always be available in a crisis. Our family, our neighbors, and ourselves may require help from the members of the proposed corps.
Our training concentrated on broad subjects such as fire safety, disaster medical operations, light and rescue, along with disaster psychology. Most of the members of this corps have since attended a refresher course. In 2010 we plan to partake in a table-top exercise that will simulate an earthquake.
Yes, we were put to a test during our September 24, 2009 fire. Our communication system failed. We know that more training and equipment is required. In Murrieta, three training sessions are scheduled for 2010.
Since 2003, Riverside County has expanded its C.E.R.T training program to Corona, Hemet, Temecula, and Lake Elsinore among other communities. There is even a Spanish C.E.R.T program available.
I truly hope that the number of Murrieta residents with the badge below will increase this year. Their reward will be some basic tools to manage an emergency in their home. They will also meet like-minded neighbors who will someday assist them in a crisis.
Why don’t you call 951-461-6151 and sign up for a class of dedicated neighbors in one of the training sessions? In 2010 they will be held at the Murrieta Fire Department March 26-28, June 4-6, and November 5-7.
CHECKERS AND A SANDWICH, ANYONE?
By Brandon Purvis
Tucked back in the Bear Creek Village Shopping Center is a real treat for a hungry eater. Since opening the doors in March 2009, owner/operator Lauren Orgill has had the mantra of "best sandwiches in town," and the Checkerboard Deli delivers. The entire menu is packed full of delicious suggestions, such as the Hot Pastrami, Reuben, Turkey/Avocado and the Veggie, making it almost impossible to go wrong. If you have your own favorite, the friendly, knowledgeable staff is more than willing to make custom sandwiches or answer any questions. The deliciousness is not limited to just sandwiches either. Also offered is a rotation of fresh desserts, homemade deli salads, and quiches, along with the legendary Delaney's Newport Beach clam chowder and other specialty soups.
If the amazing food is not enough to warrant a trek to this gem, then the atmosphere will definitely win you over. Patrons can enjoy the crooning music of the Big Band era while dining at the checkered table tops complete with chess and checker sets to idle the time away.
The Checkerboard Deli is a throwback to a simpler time, yet it retains the feel of a high-end restaurant. With its array of Boars Head meats, cheeses, and specialty spreads, that is exactly what it is!
Souls for Haiti
Like everyone, Sandy Helm, a Bear Creek resident, was devastated to learn of the earthquake in Haiti, and all the despair it had brought to this very poor country. Her first thought was, “How can I help in some small way to make their lives a little happier?” So, when she read that the Sports Chalet company was asking people to contribute shoes for a countrywide donation to Haitian victims, she knew how she could help. Sandy immediately contacted her family and friends and asked them to drop off all the shoes they no longer wore, or wanted, or even wanted to buy for the Haitians. Then she made sure they got into the proper hands. A big hand for Sandy and everyone who responded to her call.