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Community Corner

5 Things to Know in Murrieta Today: April 8

High gas prices and rainy weather make today a perfect day to catch a movie.

1.) There is a special warning statement for Riverside County and the valleys warning of a cold storm which will produce scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms, according to National Weather Service. Today there is a 50 percent of showers and thunderstorms and it will be cloudy with a high near 53. Tonight, it is expected to be mostly cloudy with a low near 38. There is  30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. For the complete special weather statement, click here.

2.) Thinking about traveling this weekend? You may think twice with the continuous rise in gas prices. In the Inland Empire, the average per gallon price as of late Thursday night for unleaded was $4.07, which is seven cents higher than last week, 21 cents higher than last month and 99 cents more than last year, the auto club reported. While gas may be getting higher, there are plenty of things to do this weekend close to home.

3.) Here's what's for lunch today at elementary schools in the Murrieta Valley Unified School District: Galaxy cheese pizza . Lunches are served with a fresh fruit/salad bar and a choice of juice or milk. To see middle and high school menus, click here. Don't forget: elementary and middle school students get out early today, at 1:40 p.m. and 1:50 p.m. Happy Spring Break! School resumes April 26.

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4.) The weather may be rainy and gas prices high, but it’s a perfect night for a movie! Opening today at the Movie Experience at Cal Oaks 17 include "Hanna," "Arthur" and "Soul Surfer." In "Hanna" (PG-13), a 16-year-old, raised by her widowed father Erik (Eric Bana), an ex-CIA man, in the wilds of North Finland, has the strength, the stamina, and the smarts of a solider. Erik has taught Hanna to hunt, put her through extreme self-defense workouts, and home-schooled her with only an encyclopedia and a book of fairy tales. But out in the world there is unfinished business for Hanna’s family, and Erik realizes his daughter can no longer be held back.

"Arthur" (PG-13), a comedy, stars Russell Brand as Arthur who faces his biggest challenge—choosing between an arranged marriage that will ensure his lavish lifestyle or an uncertain future with the one thing money can't buy.

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"Soul Surfer" (PG) is the inspiring true story of teen surfer Bethany Hamilton. Bethany lost her left arm in a shark attack and courageously overcame all odds to become a champion again, through her sheer determination and unwavering faith. Whether you are in the mood for action, comedy or a movie with the kids, there is something for you.

5.) It’s National Public Health Week. This year the American Public Health Association (APHA) wants to help to educate Americans that "Safety is No Accident.” Injuries are not "accidents," and we can prevent them from happening. Taking actions such as wearing a seatbelt, properly installing and using child safety seats, wearing a helmet and storing cleaning supplies in locked cabinets are important ways to proactively promote safety and prevent injuries. For more information, click here.

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