As we step into 2025, the Canyon Lake Insider reflects on some of the memorable news stories and events of 2024 that brought the community together. From fundraisers and seasonal celebrations to achievements by residents, 2024 was filled with milestones and moments of connection that strengthened the bonds within the community.
January
In January 2024, Community Patrol received 247 calls for service and issued 92 member citations, 82 guest citations, one service provider citation, and 147 warning citations.
Canyon Lake resident Tina Visser kicked off 2024 with an unforgettable ride aboard the Lions International “Changing the World Through Music” float at the Tournament of Roses Parade. Visser secured her coveted spot on the float through a contest sponsored by California Lions. The Canyon Lake Lions Club won the contest and selected Visser to represent the club on the float.
The fire department celebrated its second year in service. The department was launched at 8 a.m. on January 1, 2022.
Due to the surge in personal mobility device usage in the community and the impact it was having on pedestrian and vehicle and golf cart traffic at special event locations, the POA Board of Directors approved a new rule prohibiting such devices from being ridden in or upon at special events located on common areas, in parking lots, or on roadways where a special event is taking place.
On January 6, 55 residents seized the chance to take free lessons offered by the Canyon Lake Pickleball Cub.
With temperatures in the low 30s at launch, the Bassmasters Club held its first club tournament of the season on January 6. Kevin Hugo and Casey Engel captured the first place win with 20.97 pounds of bass.
On January 10, members of the Canyon Lake Quilters presented Fire Chief Jeff Latendresse with a handmade patriotic quilt in appreciation of his service to the country. LaTendresse served in the U.S. Air Force for three years as an active duty service member, two years as a reserve, and one year as an inactive reserve.
The week of January 15, the exterior of the fire station was undergoing a significant transformation that included a fresh coat of paint, exterior lighting fixtures, and the installation of outdoor cameras. The project was the city’s first substantial project since purchasing the station from the POA on December 8, 2023.
Multiple fire crews responded to an attic fire on January 21 around 9 a.m. in the 29000 block of Smugglers Point.
The Canyon Lake Fire Department and Cal Fire responded to an attic fire on January 23 around 10 p.m. in the 29000 block of Vacation Dr. A passerby noticed the fire and called for help. Four occupants were displaced.
On January 29, Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District began performing essential underwater service at the Railroad Canyon Dam. The maintenance is critical for ensuring the proper isolation and control of water flow during discharges.
The POA Board of Directors honored Yacht Club Commodore Ron Wilbur as its Member of the Month.
The Canyon Lake Yacht Club honored the Parade of Lights winners and installed its 2024 board members
February
Longtime resident Mary Jane Kelly passed away from a rare brain disease on February 1.
The city council approved to increase compensation for council members from $350 to $950 per month. The adjustment marked the first change to the compensation rate since the city was incorporated on December 1, 1990.
On February 14, the city recognized dedicated library volunteers Lynda Downey, Gretchen Blackford, and Kathy Wood as Citizens of the Month.
Resident Bruce Wallace achieved a remarkable feat on February 16, scoring his fifth hole-in-one.
Gene Brown, an original member of the Men’s Golf Club, passed away on February 20 at the age of 97.
On February 25, the Jr. Women’s Club held a Pickleball Poker Tournament aimed at raising funds to help combat child trafficking.
POA employee Harmony McNaughton received the prestigious 2024 California Association of Community Managers (CACM) Innovator Vision Award during the CACM Law Seminar & Expo at the Disneyland Hotel and Convention Center on February 28.
The 9ers Golf Club presented Carrie Collins with its Most Improved Golfer Award.
California Governor Gavin Newsom proclaimed a State of Emergency for eight counties, including Riverside, as a series of winter storms began impacting much of the state with high winds, damaging rain, and heavy snowfall.
The Canyon Lake Quilters presented resident Warren Waterworth with a handmade patriotic quilt in appreciation of his dedicated service to the country. Waterworth served in the U.S. Navy from 1952 to 1956.
The Men’s Golf Club honored Linda Johnson and Eric Schrader as its 2024 Sweetheart Couple of Year, acknowledging their contribution to both the Canyon Lake community and golf clubs.
March
In March, Community Patrol received 120 calls for service and issued 217 member citations, 218 guest citations, and 391 warning citations.
On March 2, the Yacht Club kicked off its 2024 events with a potluck gathering at Holiday Harbor Park.
On March 5, the POA Board of Directors approved funding for a new Community Patrol service contract. The board greenlit a comprehensive three-year contract with Allied Universal, allocating $2,989,073 for the first year’s costs. The cost of the three-year contract amounts to $9,255,032.
Also on March 5, the POA Board of Directors approved increasing the annual assessment by $17 per month, bumping up the annual assessment of $3,816 ($318 per month) to 4,020 ($335 per month).
On March 6, Canyon Lake firefighters participated in the library’s Storytime.
On March 7, a 70-year-old Canyon Lake man was arrested on suspicion of impersonating a peace officer and false imprisonment.
On March 9 the Canyon Lake Library hosted the Wildomar Public Library’s Garden Party Club.
On March 9, three Canyon Lake chair volleyball teams showcased their skills at the Sun City tournament, with one team securing third place.
The POA welcomed new pool supervisor Skylor Saltos.
City council honored Bobby Kielty as March Citizen of the Month.
On March 9, 26 anglers in 13 boats participate in the Bassmasters’ monthly tournament. Anglers Travis Smith and Rich Tucker took the top spot with a total fish weight of 19.97 lbs.
Resident KK Beecher made her second hole-in-one on March 9, just two years after sinking her first hole-in-one.
On March 14, the 9ers Golf Club welcomed 68 participants to its annual St. Patrick’s Shenanigans Golf Tournament.
On March 17, resident Julie Putjenter participated in her second Los Angeles Marathon.
On March 17, 11-year-old resident Hank Hauger competed in his first go-kart race at the Adams Motorsports Park in Riverside.
The Yacht Club announced Tina Inkrote and Dawn Varga as the first recipients of its new Deckhand of the Month program, aimed at recognizing those who go the extra mile to help guide the club toward its destination.
The Mermaids of Canyon Lake Club held its Casino Night fundraiser, raising $5,000 for the club’s charitable causes.
For the fourth consecutive year, KK Beecher secured victory in the Women’s Golf Club Championship Tournament, a three-day tournament spread across two weeks. Her win earned her a coveted invitation to the PGA’s 2024 National Club Championship, a one-of-a-kind event that brings together amateur club champions from golf courses coast to coast.
On March 22, deputies screened 1008 vehicles during a DUI Checkpoint on Railroad Canyon Road. The checkpoint yielded two DUI arrests, one vehicle pursuit resulting in an arrest, 22 citations for unlicensed/suspended drivers, and one misdemeanor arrest warrant served. Ten vehicles were towed.
A driver fled the scene of an accident on Railroad Canyon Road on the evening of March 24, prompting the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department to initiate a helicopter search for the suspect.
On March 31, the city announced that City Manager Nicole Dailey and the city council mutually agreed to part ways.
Construction started on the POA’s Tennis Area Shade Project, aimed at revamping the picnic area next to the tennis courts.
The POA announced the resignation of Assistant General Manager Lynn Jensen. Jensen worked for the POA for more than 20 years.
April
The fire department responded to 100 calls in April. They included two fire responses, 75 rescue/EMS incidents, one hazardous condition seven service calls, 11 good intent calls, and four false alarms.
Community Patrol received 132 calls for service in April. In addition to 392 warnings, staff issued 232 member citations, 299 guest citations, and two service provider citations.
On April 6, the Yacht Club hosted Canyon Lake’s Opening Day of Boating Season and Blessing of the Boats. The ceremony signals the official start of boating season in Canyon Lake.
The Jr. Women’s Club held its Charity Golf Tournament and Helicopter Ball Drop on April 6.
The POA Board of Directors recognized resident Larry Garland for his contributions to the community.
On April 9, a vehicle was retrieved from the lake after it rolled down the Eastport boat ramp during a photoshoot.
The community gathered at Holiday Harbor Park on April 9 for Hope Lights the Night, a luminary event celebrating life and honoring those impacted by cancer. The event was co-hosted by Michelle’s Place Cancer Resource Center and the Mermaids of Canyon Lake Club.
The city announced the appointment of Arron Brown as interim city manager. Brown’s selection was finalized during the April 10 council meeting.
City council recognized theater teacher Leslie Vecchione as April Citizen of the Month. Vecchione had served on the Canyon Lake Community Theatre Board for more than 15 years.
The 9ers Golf Club held a double championship on April 18. Kim Robinson secured the Club Championship for the second consecutive year.
The Ski Club presented member Emilia Horton with its Bob Barton Award. The award is presented annually to the Ski Club member who made the greatest contribution to three-event waterskiing in the Western Region.
On April 20, the Community Gardeners Club held an Earth Day celebration at the Community Garden. The event featured a tour of the garden, a seed giveaway, a milkweed giveaway, and activities for kids.
On April 21, Canyon Lake business Sugar Dollz celebrated its 14th anniversary.
The Woman’s Club hosted its annual Fashion Show on April 26 at the lodge. The show featured a dazzling rhinestone cowgirl theme.
With a final score of 33 to 15, the Saturday Golf Team scored a victory over the Bella Collina Golf Team in San Clemente to secure a spot in the Southern California Golf Association (SCGA) Team Play finals, which they ended up winning.
The Canyon Lake Association of Past Presidents (CLAPPS) held its annual Beautification Tournament on April 27, with proceeds going toward beautification projects for the golf course.
The city held its annual community cleanup and shredding event on April 27, collecting 1.92 tons of concrete, 10.82 tons of trash, 4.22 tons of metal, 3.06 tons of white goods, and 2.4 tons of e-waste.
After more than three decades as the manager of the Equestrian Center, Luis Martinez bid farewell to the Canyon Lake community upon his retirement.
May
The fire department responded to 88 calls in May. They included four fire responses, 63 rescue/EMS incidents, nine service calls, 11 good intent calls, and one false alarm.
On May 2, Sheriff Chad Bianco delivered the keynote speech at Canyon Lake’s 11th Annual National Day of Prayer.
The POA announced the appointment of Ken Toler as its new Community Patrol manager, effective June 3.
The Yacht Club held its annual Spring Lake Cleanup on May 4.
The Mermaids of Canyon Lake Club hosted its 3rd Annual Derby Day fundraiser on May 4 at Diamond Point Park.
Canyon Lake Community Theatre performed “Tarzan” on May 9 through May 11 at Indian Beach.
The Choraleers performed “Broadway at the Lake” on May 10 at the lodge.
The fire department held its Open House on May 11.
On May 16, an early morning residential fire was swiftly extinguished with garden hoses with the help of Councilman Jeremy Smith and several neighbors.
Canyon Lake Little League hosted a Speed Challenge and a Home Run Derby on May 17.
On May 18, Canyon Lake Little League held a party at the fields to celebrate the end of another fantastic season.
On May 18, the Yacht Club hosted a free “Learn How to Drive a Boat” clinic for residents ages 12 and older.
Former Canyon Lake Mayor John Zaitz succumbed to cancer on May 20 at the age of 81.
Canyon Lake’s three-day Fiesta Day Park Hopper kicked off on May 24.
On May 25, the Canyon Lake Quilters presented patriot quilts to five Canyon Lake veterans: Mark Johnson, Shannon Luna, Len Prowse, Michelle Wynn, and Pat Ziegler.
Homeowners reelected Bill Van Vleet and Greg Doherty to service on the 2024/2026 POA Board of Directors.
The Ski Club kicked off its 2024 season with the May Open, a two-day tournament that attracts skiers from across the country, including USA’s top-ranked jumpers, trickers, and slalom skiers.
The Canyon Lake Chamber of Commerce selected Hoffman’s Painting as its May Business of the Month.
City Council recognized Kelly Lopez as May Citizen of the Month. Lopez is the founder of the Community Gardeners Club and the driving force behind the POA creating a community garden.
The POA honored Valerie Montgomery as Member of the Month for her contributions to the golf community.
June
In June, the fire department responded to 92 calls. They included three fire responses, 62 rescue/EMS incidents, 12 service calls, 10 good intent calls, and four false alarms. One was not reported.
Community Patrol received 444 calls for service in June. Staff issued 356 citations to members and 339 citations to guests.
On June 8, the Canyon Lake Firefighters Association held its 2nd Annual Golf Cart Show in the Towne Center.
The Canyon Lake Association of Men (CLAMS) held its charity fundraiser golf tournament on June 8.
The community rallied around Alex Garcia, a beloved chef employed at the Canyon Lake Country Club for nearly a decade, to help raise funds for his wife, who was diagnosed with stage four colon cancer. A fundraiser golf tournament was held on June 9.
Canyon Lake’s popular Taco Tuesdays returned to the lodge on June 11.
On June 13, the Jr. Women’s Club hosted a clothing drive benefiting women survivors of domestic violence.
On June 18, Tuesday Work Group volunteers cleaned the golf course pond. Volunteers removed eight cartloads of debris, algae, and other items from the pond, ensuring a cleaner and more pleasant environment for all golfers.
On June 26, resident Chris Papavero reached his goal of walking 365 consecutive days, logging about 2,555 miles.
On June 27, the Tuesday Work Group concluded its 51st season with an appreciation banquet and awards ceremony at the lodge.
The Mermaids of Canyon Lake Club held its annual Afternoon Tea on June 29 at the lodge.
Residents enjoyed a free movie at the pool on June 29.
On June 30, Canyon Lake seniors enjoyed a free meal at the senior center courtesy of the Sports Stop.
The Canyon Lake Women’s Club concluded its 2023/2024 season and installed its new board members for the 2024/2025 season.
The Yacht Club awarded $1000 scholarships to two Canyon Lake students.
The Canyon Lake Chamber of Commerce named Canyon Lake Library June Business of the Month.
The Yacht Club recognized Jim Lange as its Deckhand of the Month.
The Jr. Women’s Club awarded scholarships to 10 Canyon Lake high school seniors.
July
In a record-setting month, the fire department responded to 116 calls, making it the busiest month of the year to date.
Community Patrol received 409 calls for service in July. Staff issued 164 citations to members, 116 citations to guests, and 139 warning citations.
On the morning of July 4, the Roller family hosted the community’s 20th Annual 4th of July Bike Ride.
Hosted by the POA, residents enjoyed a free movie at Indian Beach.
Canyon Lake Fire Department Battalion Chief Michael Samuels retired on July 13.
On July 13, the Guild hosted its All American Girl concert featuring tributes to Carrie Underwood and Shania Twain.
Resident KK Beecher celebrated her third hole-in-one, achieved on July 14 during a two-day tournament at Bear Creek Golf & Country Club. This marks Beecher’s second hole-in-one in 2024.
The Yacht Club set sail for back-to-back pirates and wenches-themed cruise and tie-up parties on July 13 and July 14.
On July 19, the city hosted a Town Hall to discuss the legality of golf carts crossing Railroad Canyon Road.
The ever-popular week-long Jr. Golf Camp was held the week of July 23.
Twenty-one Canyon Lake skiers qualified to compete in the USA Water Ski Western Regionals, held from July 23 through July 27 at Wet Set Village in Newberry Springs, California. Sixteen of them earned medals in one or more categories.
A Celebration of Life was held for former Canyon Lake Mayor John Zaitz on July 27 at the Lake Elsinore/Wildomar Elks Lodge in Wildomar.
The Yacht Club hosted a “Red Solo Cup” boat cruise tribute to Toby Keith on July 27.
The Lions Club held its Bingo Blowout event on July 28 at the lodge.
August
The fire department responded to 86 calls in August. They included six fire responses, 56 rescue/EMS incidents, eight service calls, 14 good intent calls, one hazardous call, and one false alarm.
Community Patrol received 308 calls for service in August. Staff issued 124 citations to members, 70 citations to guests, one citation to a service provider, and 127 warning citations.
The Woman’s Club hosted a cooking class on August 3 at the senior center.
The cities of Canyon Lake, Lake Elsinore, and Wildomar partnered with the Lake Elsinore Sheriff’s Station to host National Night Out on August 6 at Canyon Hills Community Park.
Canyon Lake’s lone commercial cannabis dispensary, Culture Cannabis Club, announced the immediate closure of its store. The store officially opened on September 28, 2023, and ceased operations at the end of the day on August 6, 2024.
On August 9, the Canyon Lake Firefighters Association donated $250 to the Community Theatre group, showing its support for the arts in the community. The donation follows a $90 sponsorship to the Mermaids of Canyon Lake Club to support its annual community calendar giveaway.
On August 12, resident James Godoy was one of three men who sprang into action when they spotted a vegetation fire along Highway 74 near Peach Street in the City of Lake Elsinore. The men quickly retrieved shovels from their vehicles and began working to contain the blaze. On September 3, the Canyon Lake City Council honored Godoy as Citizen of the Month.
On August 21, the city held a groundbreaking celebration for its Council Chamber Remodel Project.
On August 24, resident Adam McNaughton claimed the top spot in the novice category at the Untamed Strength’s Strongest Man and Woman competition in Sacramento, California. McNaughton competed against 16 competitors in a series of grueling events that included Conan’s wheel, log clean and press, fat grip farmer’s carry, a tire flip, and a sandbag toss,
The Yacht Club set sail on a Hawaiian-themed cruise and tie-up party on August 24.
The 12th Annual Paddle and Pedal Regatta was held on August 24 at Indian Beach.
The fire department announced the launch of a new battery disposal program, made possible through a household hazardous waste grant awarded through CalRecycle.
During a photo shoot on August 31 at the lodge, the driver of a vintage hot rod accidentally reversed the vehicle and slammed into a planter around the Sunset Terrace, causing damage to the planter and the rear of his vehicle.
The Yacht Club recognized Paul Hawker as its Deckhand of the Month. The Deckhand of the Month program aims to recognize members who consistently go above and beyond in guiding the club toward its mission.
Dale Welty, Mark Terry, and Josh Steeber announced their candidacies for the city council.
September
Community Patrol received 354 calls for service in September. Staff issued 145 citations to members and 60 citations to guests.
The POA Board of Directors recognized Ria Riley as Member of the Month for her outstanding contributions to the community. A resident since 2007 and owner of the Sports Stop Pub & Grill since 2016, Riley has been a dedicated supporter and sponsor of numerous community events.
Village Education Centers opened its doors in the Towne Center on September 3.
The Community Gardeners Club held its Garden Experience event on September 7 at the Community Garden. The event featured fall planting education, a gardening Q&A, prizes, and a seed giveaway.
On September 11, the city and fire department held a Remembrance Ceremony at the fire station in honor of those who lost their lives in the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
September 14 was a busy day in Canyon Lake. The Men’s Golf Club held its Annual Stag Day Golf Tournament, the Bassmasters Club hosted the 38th Annual Kids Fishing Derby, and the Woman’s Club held its Annual Hot Autumn Nights event, featuring a chili cook-off contest with prizes.
On September 19, the Yacht Club and Pickleball Club partnered to host an appreciation barbecue for the POA’s Marine Patrol and Operations staff.
The Canyon Lake Association of Men (CLAMS) hosted its annual Country in the Park event on September 28 at Holiday Harbor Park. The event featured a barbecue, live music, and dancing.
The Sports Stop hosted a free catered Italian meal for seniors on September 29 at the senior center.
Touchless Boat Cover emerged victorious in the Canyon Lake Chamber of Commerce’s 2nd Annual Battle of the Business on September 29 at Sierra Park.
The Canyon Lake Chamber of Commerce announced Trusted Business Partners as its September Business of the Month.
October
The fire department responded to 83 calls in October. They included two fire responses, 56 rescue/EMS incidents, three service calls, 16 good intent calls, one hazard call, and five false alarms.
Community Patrol received 334 calls for service in October. Staff issued 87 citations to members, 57 citations to guests, and one citation to a service provided.
In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and a show of support for the nation’s veterans, Canyon Lake firefighters donned pink T-shirts and camouflage hats with lavender lettering throughout October and November.
Mayor Dale Welty delivered the city’s State of the City Address on October 3.
The city presented its esteemed Jordan Ehrenkranz Spirit Award to longtime resident Jeanne O’Dell. The award recognizes individuals who embody community spirit and give selflessly of their time and resources for the betterment of the community.
The 18th Annual Car Show was held on October 5.
Anglers Jerry Jones and Rick Mackie clinched first place in the Bassmasters’ monthly club tournament on October 5. This marked the third consecutive win for Jones.
On October 6, the team representing the POA emerged victorious in the 10th Annual City of Canyon Lake Golf Championship Scramble on October 6. Teams from Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District secured second and third places.
One day after stepping into his new role as battalion chief of the Canyon Lake Fire Department, Jeff Roberts was officially badged during the October 9 city council meeting.
The Jr. Women’s Club held its 10th Annual Rocktoberfest on October 12, at Holiday Harbor Park. The event featured two concerts, food, vendors, and beer tastings from local craft breweries.
Resident KK Beecher achieved her fourth hole-in-one on October 13, marking her third hole-in-one in 2024 and her second hole-in-one in three months at Bear Creek Golf & Country Club.
The Woman’s Club conjured up a magical time at its annual Witches Gathering and luncheon on October 13 at the senior center.
Several Canyon Lake parking lots were undergoing seal coating during the week of October 21.
The Little League held a Trunk-or-Treat event on October 23 at Gault Field.
On October 24, Canyon Lake Community Theatre (CLCT) celebrated a successful opening weekend of its production of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.
The city hosted its first-ever Pumpkin Bash on October 24 in the Towne Center. This autumn celebration featured a vibrant fall might market featuring vendors, food, live entertainment, and amusements.
On October 26, the Chamber of Commerce hosted its 31st Annual Parade of Frights. The event featured trick-or-treating at businesses in the Towne Center, a costume parade and contest, vendors, and music.
Bringing the spirit and fun of Halloween to the water, the 4th Annual Dock-or-Treat was held on October 26.
Harmony McNaughton, a 17-year POA employee and Canyon Lake resident since 2016, relocated to New York.
The city council unanimously voted to approve the appointment of Arron Brown as city manager. Brown had been serving as interim city manager since April 10.
The Yacht Club held its inaugural Chili Cook-Off on Skipper’s Island.
Calista Grande was honored as the city’s October Citizen of the Month.
November
The fire department responded to 100 calls in November. They included four fire responses, 67 rescue/EMS incidents, eight service calls, 14 good intent calls, five false alarms, and two calls not reported.
The Community Gardeners Club held a Pumpkin Succulent Workshop on November 2 at the Eastport Activities Building.
On November 5, the POA honored resident Perry Beggs as November Member of the Month.
The Pickleball Club offered community members free lessons on November 9.
The 23rd Annual Senior Center Holiday Boutique was held on November 9 and 10.
The city held its 16th Annual Veterans Day Celebration on November 11 at Holiday Harbor Park. The event featured live music, speeches, vendors, food, and a flyover performed by the Warbirds West.
The Jr. Women’s Club held its annual Sip and Shop holiday boutique on November 16 at the lodge.
The Young Old People’s Club held its 2nd Annual Poker Run and Lunch event on November 16
On November 20, Canyon Lake resident Greg Castillo was sworn in as police captain for the City of Colton Police Department.
The city held its 13th Annual Turkey and Food Drive on November 21.
The 14th Annual Many Wonders of Christmas was held on November 23 at Canyon Lake Community Church. This ever-popular holiday event features a catered lunch, entertainment, a Christmas tree raffle, and door prizes.
Continuing its commitment to community service, the Yacht Club donated Thanksgiving dinners to six young mothers transitioning out of foster care and into independent living.
Resident Suzy Bowman opened her home and heart to host Thanksgiving dinner for 30 Marines from Camp Pendleton, providing them a warm and welcoming holiday experience while away from home.
The Thanksgiving morning Turkey Trot took place thanks to a group of dedicated residents determined to preserve this cherished tradition. Historically hosted by the Canyon Lake Triathlon and Fitness Club, the event faced uncertainty after the club’s recent disbandment. However, a few residents stepped in to ensure the Turkey Trot would go on, albeit without an official host.
Resident David Stites capped off an impressive season by bringing home the 2024 Factory Stock Division Championship from Perris Auto Speedway.
December
On December 1, the city celebrated its 34th year of incorporation.
The POA held its 42nd Annual Tree Lighting Festival on December 1 at the lodge, featuring free family activities, visits with Santa, a DJ, food, and vendors.
The Towne Center was transformed into a winter wonderland for the city’s annual Winter Wonderland and Tree Lighting event on December 5. This holiday event featured free family activities, visits with Santa, an ice skating rink, food, and vendors.
The city honored Kim Pauley as December Citizen of the Month.
The Woman’s Club held its annual Holiday Home Tour on December 7.
Residents decked out their golf carts and took to the streets for the 14th Annual Christmas Golf Cart Parade and Toy Drive on December 8.
During the December council meeting, Mark Terry was appointed mayor and Kasey Castillo was appointed mayor pro tem.
On December 11, the city held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to unveil its newly remodeled Council Chamber..
Canyon Lake seniors enjoyed a free catered dinner and entertainment by the Choraleers at the annual Senior Center Christmas Dinner on December 13.
On December 14, the Yacht Club hosted the 42nd Annual Parade of Lights holiday boat parade. This iconic parade draws thousands of spectators to lakefront homes and parks to see the festive lights and colorful displays.
The Ski Club held its annual Cookies with Santa event on December 14.
Fire Engineer Humberto “Chico” Sanchez was named 2024 Firefighter of the Year. James Sanchez, no relation to Chico, was selected as the department’s Reserve of the Year.
On December 15, residents Landon Moore and Morgan Dyer became engaged. Moore proposed to Dyer on the dock at Holiday Harbor Park. She said, “Yes!”
The fire department held its 2nd Annual Donuts with Santa event on December 21. Attendees had the opportunity to capture memories with Santa, indulge in donuts and hot cocoa, and participate in craft activities in Santa’s Workshop.
Canyon Lake resident Veronica Garza was honored with the Dr. Cynthia A. Cotter Distinguished Volunteer Award for her outstanding dedication and countless hours of volunteering with the San Diego Psychological Association.
On December 26, a CR&R trash truck fire prompted a swift response from the fire department, with additional support from Cal Fire. The incident occurred around 11:50 a.m. at Canyon Lake Drive South and Continental Drive.
