Hemet City Lights: Recent Episodes

Diana Hagy

A podcast about our city. Showcasing small businesses, local non-profits and community events in the Hemet/San Jacinto Valley.

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I encourage you to take a listen and learn more about the good things we are doing here at the shelter, and how you can help.

Help us bust the myths!

For more information, you can visit our website at

www.ValleyRestartShelter.org

Visit our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/groups/valleyrestartshelter

Our Instagram Page at: https://www.instagram.com/valleyrestartshelter/

We are located at 200 E. Menlo Ave

Office Hours are 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday - Friday

Our phone number is (951) 766-7476

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It’s anyone’s guess how this podcast can go. There are no scripts, no lights, cameras, and action. Just me, my iPad, a special quest and 10 questions. Zero editing, big cups of iced coffee and a shared love of this city.

This month’s special guest was Monica, the Director of Marketing for the Downtown Hemet Farmer’s Market, and a small business owner herself. Take a listen as we sit down and talk about our favorite market, and why she does what she does.

If you were to ask me how I would best describe Monica, I would, without hesitation say "she is quiet strength." A force of nature you don't see coming until she’s already there.

In her life, she has worn various hats and has many talents, a master of most of them. While there is so much more to Monica than what we’ve learned today, I think you’ll enjoy hearing what she has to say.


For more information about the Downtown Hemet Farmer's Market, find us on:

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/downtownhemetfarmersmarket⁠

Instagram: @Downtown_Hemet_Farmers_Market

Website: www.DowntownHemetFarmersMarket.com

Every Saturday: Seasonal Hours: 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.


For more about Monica's art, follow her on Instagram:

@HighCountrySupplyCo


*I am still working out some bugs, so please be patient with me while I work them out.

**You may also want to listen to my old recordings of local Hemet businesses below this podcast. Please do so, as many of them are still in business and can always use your support.

Thank you for listening, and as always, Shop Small. It makes a big difference.

Signing off, Diana Hagy

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The saying is definitely true, you DO learn something new every day. After sitting with Ambrose, the owner of Digger's Comics and Collectibles, I can honestly say I've learned quite a bit. Walking into Digger's is like being transported to another world. There's something fascinating and colorful to look at every where I turned.

I highly recommend stopping in. Ambrose is a man of many talents, from drawing comics to having a vast knowledge of information regarding comics and collectables. Take a listen to our podcast, hear a little of his story and why it's so important to support small business.

Digger's Comics and Collectibles is located at:

114 E Florida Ave

Hemet, CA 92543

Store Hours:

Tues- Thurs 11ish-7ish

Fri-Sat 11ish-8ish

Sunday 12ish-6ish

Telephone: (951) 484-8248

Digger's Comics Website: www.diggerscomics.com

Gopher It Comics Website: GopherItComics.com

Digger's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DiggersComics/

Gopher It Comics Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GopherIt/

Digger's Instagram: @diggerscomics

Ambrose Instagram: @ambroseiv

Gopher Comics Instagram: @gopheritcomics

Digger's Comics YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-joe3fejMRaAI2ctMz2u4g

In Your Face Studios YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCft9qyrJdtGMSqL3F-y5uMQ

Like Hemet City Lights on Facebook @ facebook.com/groups/HemetCityLightsGroup/

Follow us on Instagram @Hemet_City_Lights

Follow us on Twitter @HemetCityLights

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I'm always surprised by what I find in my little city. From the best macaroons to the best coffee, my city has it all. And then I meet Erika London, the Community Relations Director for My City Youth. Did you know our city has a place where children 18 and under can go to and SAFELY play for FREE? A place they can go, get help with school work, play games and just be a kid?

There are so many amazing faucets of My City Youth, from morning coffee with anyone who wants to check out the program, to the mother's store for pregnant teenage girls who need items for their baby...at no charge! (They have a credit system in place I believe, Erika talks about it in the podcast).

They are currently raising funds to build a gymnasium. This would not only benefit My City Youth, but the entire community. If you would like to donate, there are several ways you can give...TEXT MCYCBUILDIT to 41444, you can go to My City Youth and donate or donate online at igfn.us/e/piTeBw

Take a listen to their story, let it touch your heart like it touched mine,

My City Youth is located at

145 N. Tahquitz Avenue

Hemet, California 92543

(951) 652-0647

Their hours are:

Monday - Thursday 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Friday - 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Website: www.mycityyouthcenter.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/mycityyouthcenterblue/

Instagram: @mycityyouthcenter

Like Hemet City Lights on Facebook @ facebook.com/groups/HemetCityLightsGroup/

Follow us on Instagram @Hemet_City_Lights

Follow us on Twitter @HemetCityLights

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It's always easy to talk to someone who has a passion for what they do. My new friend Julio is a force to reckon with when it comes to his passion for music and this community. 

It's all things music in here, from cords to chords you'll definitely find what you need at the Harvard Street Music Exchange. Take a listen to Julio's story then come visit. I am proud to say our little city has this music store. It's a one of a kind gem that keeps the rhythm of our heartbeat going.

Thank you Julio for sitting down with me and letting me see your passion, it was a pleasure for sure.

Harvard Music Street Exchange is located at

134 S. Harvard Street

Hemet, CA 92543

(951) 925-6200

Their hours are:

Monday - Saturday 11:00 a.m. -7:00 p.m.

Website: www.harvardstreetmusicexchange.com

Facebook at: www.facebook.com/HarvardStreetMusic/

Instagram at: @harvardstreetmusic

Like Hemet City Lights on Facebook @ facebook.com/groups/HemetCityLightsGroup/

Follow us on Instagram @Hemet_City_Lights

Follow us on Twitter @HemetCityLights

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Going into business for yourself isn't always easy, but Brandon sure makes it look effortless. With his essential oils, he's able to address almost every issue (this however does not take place of going to your doctor and seeking medical advice). Some of my favorite essential oils have helped keep me calm, sanitized my house and refreshed my skin! 

Take a listen to Brandon's story and how essential oils can add to your life.

Like Brandon's Wellness and Essential Oils at: https://www.facebook.com/FindTheOilGuy/

Follow him on Instagram @culinarybrandon

The book Brandon refers to is called: Modern Essentials 11th Edition, you can find it on Amazon for $34.99

Like Hemet City Lights on Facebook @ https://www.facebook.com/groups/HemetCityLightsGroup/

Follow us on Instagram @Hemet_City_Lights

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Original air date: 03/14/2020

I had the privilege of sitting down with Linda Rogers, the Executive Director of Valley Restart Center, a non-profit organization helping the homeless in our valley. I always knew of the shelter, but what I didn’t realize was the success rate, the sense of community and the beauty this service provides for our city.

Take a listen to Linda’s podcast about Valley Restart and what YOU can do to help!

They are located at:

200 E Menlo Ave

Hemet, California 92543

(951) 766-7476

Their hours are:

Monday - Friday 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Visit their website at:

valleyrestart.info

Like them on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/valleyrestartshelter/

Like Hemet City Lights on Facebook @ https://www.facebook.com/groups/HemetCityLightsGroup/

Follow us on Instagram @Hemet_City_Lights

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Original air date: 02/10/2020

I had the privilege of sitting with the owner Eve Faulkner and hearing her story. I’m not sure if you’re aware of this, but Hemet has a hidden gem...The Opera House Tea Room. Not only does she have a beautiful consignment shop and Victorian Bridal museum in the front of the store, but when you go into the back room you’re transported to another era. 

I highly recommend you book a tea with Eve. You'll see Chefs Allysun and Brandon as well and hopefully grab some of that amazing baklava Chef Allysun makes and their salted caramel tea!

They are located at:

146 N. Harvard Street

Hemet, CA 92543

Downtown Hemet area

(951) 255-4411

Tea is by appointment only

Like them on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2824273737601348/

Follow them on Intagram @Laboutiquemuseum

Like Hemet City Lights on Facebook @ https://www.facebook.com/groups/HemetCityLightsGroup/

Follow us on Instagram @Hemet_City_Lights

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Original air date: 01/24/2020

This was one of those interviews that left me MORE impressed with the owner than I originally started with! Owner Nick Yepremian gives us a closer look into his family's life, and the inspiration for Destination Cafe. 

Take my advice, order the Turkish Hazelnut Latte iced, breve iced or blended...you'll thank me, I promise!

They are located at:

100 W Florida Avenue

Hemet, California 92543

(951) 652-0040

The corner of State and Florida at the old train depot

Their hours are:

Open daily from 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Visit their website at:

www.DestinationCBB.com

Like them on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/DestinationCBB/

Follow them on Instagram @destinationcoffeebarbistro

Like Hemet City Lights on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/HemetCityLightsGroup/

Follow us on Instagram @Hemet_City_Lights

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Original air date: 01/13/2020

If you haven't met Laura yet from Harvard Street Bakery, you need to. She has a very gentle sweet spirit, yet her passion for baking shines through. She's been a staple here in the downtown area for quite a few years, sharing her love for pastries and great food with everyone she meets

Take a listen to her story, then stop in for a highly recommended eclair! It just melts in your mouth!

They are located at:

140 N. Harvard St

Hemet, California 92543

(951) 392-3283

Downtown Hemet area

Their hours are:

Tuesday - Saturday 7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Visit their website at:

https://harvardstbakeryandcafe.com/

Like them on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/HarvardStBakery/

Follow them on Instagram @harvardstbakeryandcafe

Like Hemet City Lights on Facebook @ https://www.facebook.com/groups/HemetCityLightsGroup/

Follow us on Instagram @Hemet_City_Lights

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Original air date: 01/05/2020

What a great couple and what a beautiful story. I LOVED this interview and the energy Joshua and Nathali had. They have a passion for their business, family and community. It's businesses like this one that make me proud of my city. 

Take a listen to their story, then stop in for a treat. I HIGHLY recommend the patty melt. Hands down, the best patty melt I've ever had. 

They are located at:

2551 S. San Jacinto

San Jacinto, California 92583

(951) 392-2181

(Farmer's Corner on Menlo and San Jactino Street)

Their Hours are:

Tuesday - Saturday 11:00 a.m - 6:00 p.m.

Like them on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/kbgrill/

Follow them on Instagram @kbgrill_

Like Hemet City Lights on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/HemetCityLightsGroup/

Follow us on Instagram @Hemet_City_Lights

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Original air date: 12/14/2019

She said this about me, but I'm turning it around and saying it back to her..."You know when you meet someone and you just go 'yup, that's a good people' well, that's how I feel about you." Same Allysun and YOU also Brandon.

This was my very first interview, and to be honest I was scared. But after sitting with them and talking and laughing, it was like we were old friends.

I may have broken all my rules about time, wandering down rabbit holes, etc...but it was worth it.

For more information about Chef Allysun

Like her on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/madamconfection/

Follow her on Instagram @madamconfection

For more information about Chef Brandon

Like him on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/FindTheOilGuy/

Follow him on Instagram @culinarybrandon

For more information about The Opera House and Tea Room

They are located at:

146 N Harvard St

Hemet, California 92543

(951) 255-4411

Like them on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2824273737601348/

Follow them on Instagram @evefaulknerlaboutique

Like Hemet City Lights on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/HemetCityLightsGroup/

Follow us on Instagram @Hemet_City_Lights

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Original air date: 12/07/2019

Hemet has a podcast? Sure, why not! There are so many small business and non-profits that make up our little city, I HAD to show it off. It's the backbone of our economy and a driving force behind our sense of community.

I love my little city, with all the quirks and ambulance sirens I can take. Surrounded by mountains, sunsets more beautiful than mere words could describe... this valley is home. We've seen our share of good and bad times, just log onto any Hemet Facebook group, you'll be inundated with news. And while many groups on Facebook/Instagram and Twitter focus on the bad, I've chosen to focus on what makes this place a place I call home.

I've found some amazing hidden treasures in this city and if you follow along with me, you'll hear the stories of those who took a chance.

My podcasts are done on location, VERY low tech...a girl and her iPhone. But it's not about the bells and whistles, it's about the people behind the business.

Like us on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/HemetCityLightsGroup/

Follow us on Instagram @Hemet_City_Lights

If you're a small business owner or run a non-profit, and would like to book an interview with me, email or call:

email: dhagy30@yahoo.com

cell: (951) 373-9285