DESERT LOCAL NEWS September 27, 2009
MISSION SPRINGS SOCCER PARK Now Open Page 16 - 17
©
fresh & eas market
y
‘Glambo’ Page 10-11
Ashley Wolfe, AKA Glambo, is the hottest thing to hit Great Britain’s fighting since Ricky Hatton left Manchester for America. She’s not some kind of mixed martial artist, but the 5′3 blonde from Abbotsfort, British Columbia, Canada has gotten a lot of attention thanks to her ability to crack open heads. “Quote from Ron Hogan Blog”
Page 16-17 ~Photo by husband Bill Wolfe
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Desert Local News • September 27, 2009
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Downtown Facade Project To Begin In October BY LESLIE ANDREWS DESERT HOT SPRINGS, CAAfter more than thirty years in talks and planning, the downtown corridor of Desert Hot Springs will finally get its makeover, getting a fresh new look that will hopefully attract higherend businesses and customers to their city.
will acquire all three remaining areas in the Palm Drive/Pierson Boulevard intersection, and remodeling will happen to all buildings in Downtown Desert Hot Springs. He expects that the entire project will be complete within eleven to fifteen years.
“I’m really excited,” said City Manager Rick Daniels, who has been reading about early talks about downtown revitalization through the historical society. And so was Mayor Yvonne Parks, who recently appeared on CBS affiliate KPSP and discussed how soon the project will begin. So far, according to Assistant City Manager Rudy Acosta, who led a ninety minute presentation on the project Thursday afternoon at the Senior Center, the southwest section of the Palm Drive and Pierson Boulevard intersection has been acquired by the city for a revitalization project, which will bring forth a new image to old buildings that have stood in place since the 1950s. The room was packed, with residents and occupants of the acquired building asking questions about how would business be affected.
Catherine Romero shows local developer Alibaba Farzanheh the plans to revitalize downtown Desert Hot Springs
All businesses, which include Glossy’s Department Store and Playoff’s Sports Bar will remain open during the improvements. Traffic down along Palm Drive will be reduced to one lane in each direction during this time, which will begin in mid-October. Acosta stated that eventually, the city
Another element of the downtown project is that surveillance cameras will be hooked up, as a way of helping deter crime in the area. Cities like Palm Springs have cameras installed throughout downtown areas and have had success in capturing graffiti taggers and prostitutes, which has been an issue plaguing Desert Hot Springs for a long time. Look for the sound of jackhammers ringing on Monday, October 12th at 8:30 a.m. as there will be a special groundbreaking taking place that morning.
Desert Local News • September 27, 2009
Parks For Parks: DHS Mayor Gives An Update During Breakfast
BY LESLIE ANDREWS DESERT HOT SPRINGS, CADuring September’s monthly Leadership Breakfast held at the Miracle Springs Resort, Desert Hot Springs Mayor Yvonne Parks was the guest speaker, addressing the state of the city’s parks and recreation. So far, the city has spent $1.5 million upgrading its parks, and also the Cabot’s Pueblo Museum, which was in dire need of modernized restrooms. Cooperation has been present from members of the museum as well as officials from the Palm Springs Unified School District. $500,000 of the city’s money and grant funding helped pay for Wardman Park’s improvements. Councilman Scott Matas, who was appointed to head the city’s Parks and Recreation committee, addressed how progressive the city has been with improving parks for soccer and little league. “We’re expecting 2,000 people this weekend for the rededication of Mission Springs Park this weekend,” he said. Matas also mentioned how the Desert Valley Recreation District plans to annex the city of Desert Hot Springs into their district, to provide programs for kids and seniors. “They want to help with fixing the parks all the way to improvements at the senior center,” Matas explained. The DVRD has provided a lot of services for most of the Coachella Valley so far, from Palm Springs to Thermal. Mayor Parks stated, “Matas is not only the youngest member of the council, but he also has young children as well. He has a lot of ability for doing this kind of work.” The Parks Committee meets the third Monday of every month at Cabot Yerxa Elementary School.
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Desert Local News • September 27, 2009
Desert Local News • September 27, 2009
Local Church Develops “Project Reach Out: No Soul Left Behind” BY LESLIE ANDREWS DESERT HOT SPRINGS, CAThe First Community Baptist Church of Desert Hot Springs is participating in a campaign of their own, with hopes of getting homeless people off the streets, getting drug addicts the help they need and reaching out to people suffering from Hepatitis C and HIV/AIDS. The first of a series of community meetings began on Saturday to talk about which direction the church wishes to go to begin their program. Pastor Talhib McMicheaux stated, “We want to be a blessing to our community. We are going out. This is a project of outreach. We will be working with local officials. We are not here to judge. We are here to love.” Up until a number of months ago, the church had a food bank, which had to close down due to lack of donations and uprising clientele. “People would line up for two blocks,” said one church member, who used to volunteer in the church’s program. The pastor talked about reinstating the food service to only serve clients no more than twice. “I am not an enabling pastor,” he stated. “I believe we are doing a disservice. We need to keep people out of the lines by finding out what their needs are. We are not going to enable people. We’re going to strengthen them.” What he meant was that case management services will now be set up through the church to help those in need get back on their feet rather than to become dependent on handouts.
Desert Hot Springs Detective Reggie Stewart came to speak, as a volunteer and member of the church. He talked about how as a uniformed law enforcement officer, he has encountered several instances of homeless, drug abusers and prostitutes. Many times, he relied on faith to get him through and help see such individuals as people who need assistance. “I think this is a great program and it can go a long way,” he said. “Prayer works. We are the ambassadors of this community.” He and the Pastor also discussed how important it is to understand body language of those in need of support, and how misreading somebody could result in fatal consequences. Pastor McMicheaux added that full support has come from elected officials from Desert Hot Springs and beyond. Plus, there will be assistance coming from the Desert AIDS Project to reach out to those suffering from sexually transmitted diseases. “There will be two sessions on how to address other religions,” he added. “We are moving forward. We are operating by sight. God will shake this city up. We will no longer be the smudge on the map. You can live in the past or move to the present.” To become a volunteer, contact the First Community Baptist Church at (760) 3295335. The church’s goal is to begin this program in full force by January 2010.
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Desert Local News • September 27, 2009
Elect
DHS ELECTION 2009 • DESERT LOCAL NEWS August 31, 2009
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RUSS MARTIN Desert Hot Springs Public Safety Commissioner Desert Hot Springs Parolee Ad Hoc Commission 31 years in Law Enforcement Desert Hot Springs Fire & Emergency Services AdHoc Committee. Desert Hot Springs Economic Development Sub-Committee Vice Chair Coachella Valley Coalition to stop “Green Path North” Active member of the community
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DESERT 4, 2009 DesertLOCAL LocalNEWS News• •FEBRUARY September 27, 2009
HIGH HOLIDAYS DESERT HOT SPRINGS All services will be held at: Mission Lakes Country Club, 8484 Clubhouse Blvd, DHS Drive through the complex to the Club House No charge for services to residents of DHS non-residents $30
Rosh HaShanah Services Friday,
September 18
7:00pm
Rosh HaShanah Services Saturday, Kol Nidre Services Sunday, Yom Kippur Services Monday,
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September 27
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September 28
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Discussion groups at 1:00
Yizkor at 4:00
Nilah at 4:30
BREAKFAST served after services No charge for residents of DHS – non-residents $20
Jewish Family Service of the Desert presents these services to the Jewish Residents of Desert Hot Springs as part of a financial allocation from Jewish Federation of Palm Springs and the Desert Area.
For more information, please call 760-325-4088
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DESERT LOCAL NEWS September 27, 2009
An Afternoon With Senator Benoit In Desert Hot Springs 37th District State Senator John Benoit
Water was another topic that Benoit mentioned. “We are in the middle of a God-given drought as well as a government-given one,” he explained.
BY LESLIE ANDREWS DESERT HOT SPRINGS, CA37th District State Senator John Benoit was the guest speaker at the Desert Hot Springs’ Republican Women’s Club luncheon held on Wednesday at the Miracle Springs Resort. Benoit stood up to speak chiefly about green energy and how the Republican party members are not anti-environment. “We have more renewable sources of energy than ever before,” he said to the crowd, explaining how the Coachella Valley has wind energy, the potential for solar energy and geothermal power coming from the Salton Sea area. Benoit also reported that the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power has decided to abandon the chosen path along the cities of Desert Hot Springs leading north through Hesperia for their “Green Path North” project. Just about everybody
in the audience applauded that bit of news. Also, Benoit discussed how the state of California plans to upgrade their usage of green energy from 20% to 33% by the year 2020. He explained how Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has been progressive in signing bills that support environmentally friendly sources of power. However, he also addressed how California’s electricity rates are higher than other states. “One company spends $2 million a month on electricity, and if they move to another state will pay only $600,000,” he mentioned. “There are tens of thousands of jobs leaving California now.” Water was another topic that Benoit mentioned. “We are in the middle of a God-given drought as well as a government-given one,” he explained.
How is because one of the deltas has been shut down in Northern California, causing 30-40% less water to be pumped out to the state. He said that the situation is very serious, and one of the reasons why is because of an endangered fish that has been found in the streams. Also, he mentioned that the city of Los Angeles recycles 1% of their water. Finally, he addressed the issue of possibly replacing his old pal Roy Wilson, who passed away earlier this month after serving with the Riverside County Board of Supervisors since 1994. “I hope the Governor makes his appointment soon,” he said. As was stated in Wilson’s resignation letter (written five days before his death), Benoit was the suggestion that Wilson made to the Governor for a possible replacement.
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Desert Local News • September 27, 2009
Phyllis Lee
Loretta Vasquez
All photos by Bruce Montgomery
Senator Benoit and his father
Barbara Easley
Susan Hohenstein
Councilman Russell Betts with his mom Betty
Judy Grant
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Fresh & Easy Desert Local News • September 27, 2009
~Photos Desert Local News
BY DLN STAFF CATHEDRAL CITY, CAA new green market has come to Cathedral City. Fresh and Easy Neighborhood Market opened its doors Thursday at the corner of Date Palm Drive and 30th Avenue, with a special grand opening featuring Mayor Kathy DeRosa, Councilman Pettis and 37th District Senator John Benoit along with Fresh and Easy CEO Tim Mason. This is the grocer’s first LEED® Gold Certified store, as set up by the U.S. Green Building Council and verified by the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI). LEED is the nation’s preeminent program for the design, construction, and operation of high performance green buildings. The Cathedral City store achieved LEED certification for energy use, lighting, water use and incorporating various other sustainable strategies, such as using 90 percent recycled steel for the
building’s structure. On average, most Fresh & Easy stores use 30% less energy than a typical supermarket and use technologies like solar tracking skylights, automatically dimming lights, and LED lighting. Fresh & Easy recycles or reuses all its shipping and display materials and uses environmentally friendly trailers to transport food. The company is a pilot member of the LEED Volume Certification Program and has invested in a 500,000 sq ft solar roof installation on its distribution center in Riverside, California. “Achieving LEED Gold certification for our Cathedral City store further proves our commitment to the environment and sustainable consumption,” said Mason. “Designing our buildings to use less energy is win-win: we are able to use less money which we can pass onto customers and we have less of an impact on the earth.”
“Building operations are nearly 40% of the solution to the global climate change challenge,” said Rick Fedrizzi, President, CEO & Founding Chair, U.S. Green Building Council. “While climate change is a global problem, innovative companies like Fresh & Easy are addressing it through local solutions.” In addition to the store’s grand opening festivities, Gilda’s Club Desert Cities received a $1,000 donation from the company. Gilda’s Club, aimed at helping cancer patients, was selected by the store staff from neighborhood nominations made through Fresh & Easy’s website. Fresh & Easy currently has 127 stores in Southern California, Arizona and Nevada. There are three other locations throughout the Coachella Valley, with more on the way very soon.
fresh and easy market
Fresh & Easy Desert Local News • September 27, 2009
Tim Mason Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Market CEO
Councilman Pettis, Mayor Kathy De Rosa and Senator John Benoit
Elizabeth M. Cera, VP of business development The Bergman Co. http://thebergman.com
r3 Building Systems has completed its first building utilizing a new construction technology specifically designed to provide a green building solution that is less expensive and quicker to build versus traditional construction. R3 a Bergman Co.
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Opens Up In Cathedral City
James Tipton one of the first shoppers, waiting to get in!
David Bergman executive director The Bergman Co. http://r3buildingsystems.com
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Desert Local News • September 27, 2009
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Desert Local News • September 27, 2009
Mission Springs Soccer Park Now Open
DESERT HOT SPRINGS, CAIt was a warm September day for many in Desert Hot Springs, but still a joyous one to celebrate as the Mission Springs Soccer Park has now been declared open for soccer players of all ages to enjoy.
City Manager Rick Daniels with his wife and DHS Marketing Mg. Laura Green, Realtor Vanda Pate Davis, Ron’s Blog - Ron Gilbert
Six giant soccer balls lined the entrance of the park, as a part of the city’s Art In Public Places program. Plus, there were hundreds of kids playing on the new fields on Saturday, as music and food was provided in the background before the ceremonies began. All members of the Desert Hot Springs City Council were present, having come fresh from another candidates forum held earlier Saturday at the Vista Montana Mobile Home Park, as well as City Manager Rick Daniels and Police Chief Patrick Williams. Mayor Yvonne Parks was presented with a certificate of recognition from Coachella Mayor Eduardo Garcia, on behalf of 80th District Assemblyman Manuel Perez. Riverside County Supervisor Marion Ashley was also in attendance, happy to see this park reopen. “Two years ago, Desert Hot Springs decided to switch directions, and now the council and the city manager has turned around in the right direction despite the economy,” Ashley said. AYSO Regional Director Roger Rice was also happy to see his kids play at the Mission Springs Park. “Use this park with good use, keep it clean and keep it beautiful for a number of years,” he reminded everyone. Construction began two months ago and the planning has been in place for about a year. The park, redesigned by Assistant City Manager Rudy Acosta, is safe for the next 80 years, as a check was presented from Mayor Yvonne Parks to Mission Springs Water District President Nancy Wright securing the lease.
CC candidate Russ Martin, Nolte, Mayor Parks, Jan Pye and Connie Taylor
Desert Local News • September 27, 2009
AYSO PRESIDENT
Scott Matas Family
Soccer players pledge allegiance to the flag ~All photos by Bruce Montgomery Chief Patrick Williams and Fire Chief Dean Veik
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‘GLAMBO’ Desert Local News • September 27, 2009
Mrs. Ashley Wolfe ~ Photo by Bill Wolfe
‘GLAMBO’ Desert Local News • September 27, 2009
‘GLAMBO’ LONDON, ENGLANDAshley Wolfe, 24, of Vancouver, British Columbia, was found guilty of assault at a London party when all she was trying to do was defend herself after being sexually harassed by British soldiers. Her husband, Bill Wolfe, 57, explains exclusively to Desert Local News from their home in Budapest, Hungary, that he is an instructor in the field of Modern Defendo, in which his wife Ashley is a student of. “On December 5th, we attended a Christmas party at the Sergeants and Warrant Officers Mess Woolwhich Barracks in London, England,” he said. “I have never seen soldiers, especially Senior Non Commissioned ones, act in such a vulgar and perverted manner keeping in mind this was a mixed function with many ladies present and many retired members of the army. It was conduct totally inappropriate for this type of function and any other military function for that matter.” Also, it was Ashley’s first time to attend such an event. The couple were invited as guests of one of the Army Recruiting Team’s Sergeant Major, who was on the course. Things were going smoothly at first, until the soldiers began to act provocatively when a Britney Spears song began playing in the background. Despite being married men, the soldiers began to act like homosexual males around one another. At that point, a sergeant began to come on to Ashley and get her to participate in a lewd act. She began to react by pushing Damian Holland into the sound system. Ashley claimed that she was physically hit by Holland first. She was later accused of hitting Holland’s wife, Joanna. Bill says, “They keep bumping into us and others on
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Ashley Wolfe, AKA Glambo, is the hottest thing to hit Great Britain’s fighting since Ricky Hatton left Manchester for America. She’s not some kind of mixed martial artist, but the 5′3 blonde from Abbotsfort, British Columbia, Canada has gotten a lot of attention thanks to her ability to crack open heads. “Quote from Ron Hogan Blog” ~Photos by husband Bill Wolfe
the dance floor which was not that big an area and attempted to get Ashley to join them in their lewd acts. After being bumped into by one of these Sergeants and having him tell Ash to come get some of this, pointing to his groin area, Ash pushed him away and told him in a firm voice that his conduct was inappropriate. As she said this, another Sergeant grabbed a private soldier who was working as a waiter at the function, kisses him full on the lips and dragged him onto the dance floor and started grinding with him. As Ash pushed the Sergeant away, he said, ‘fuck off bitch.’ I then stepped in and told him to watch his language. He told me, ‘fuck off Yank!’ I responded by telling him we were not Americans but Canadian.” As Ashley was helped by two ladies to leave the dance hall, Holland attacked her again. Another sergeant named Michael Fallows charged at her and she attacked him in return. “She nailed him with a single left hook to the side of head which knocked him out cold,” said Mr. Wolfe. “Ash is 5’3” and a 123lbs. Holland is 6’1” and 200lbs. Fallows is 6’ and 195 lbs. Ash was dazed and now bleeding heavily from the wound under her nose but she defended herself like a real trooper. No man in particular a professional soldier has the right to sexually harass a woman. ‘No means No’ and Ash just gave those words a little backing with one punch that has now been heard around the world.” Bill continues to tell the story. He adds, “I attempted to de-escalate the situation I told these Sergeants, who were now clearly in a hostile mood that I was a retied Regimental Sergeant Major and to stand
down. Sgt. Holland began to yell ‘you fucking Yankee Bitch’ and saw him punch Ash closed fisted square in the face knocking her off her feet. Ash had been cornered by Holland’s wife when he blindsided Ash with the punch, in other words Ash never saw the punch coming. The blow was so hard my first reaction was Ash was dead because her head was smashed on the floor and she was not moving. At this point I was swarmed four Sergeants from the same unit and started receiving a beating.” Bill was also attacked as well during this party brawl. Holland hit Ashley again, and then punched Bill, which led into a punching match. Bill added, “Someone other soldiers grabbed Holland arms when this happened he lunged forward and bit the tip of my nose off which was later found in the garbage can. My arms were being held so I had difficulty defending myself. At this put a full blown melee broke out on in a very small area of the reception hallway. When I looked up Ash was kneeling next to me very dazed, bleeding and I was a little worse for ware myself.” He later stated that the soldier who attacked Ashley and bit his nose was arrested later that morning and charged with two counts of Assault Causing Bodily harm and one of wounding. Sad to say, two weeks later the police arrested Ashley after tracking her down to her home in Budapest, Hungary. After holding her in custody for 11 hours for questioning, they charged her with two counts of causing bodily harm because she allegedly punched Holland’s wife breaking her jaw and for knocking out Sgt. Fallows. She
was released from custody but the British police seized her passport. A month later, the trial began. The Wolfes learned that their due process was violated. The judge learned that there was no evidence to substantiate the charge of breaking Mrs. Holland’s jaw and Sgt. Fallows was done in self defense. At first, the charges against Ashley were dropped and her passport was returned. However, the charges of common assault were pressed against her. Mr. Wolfe continues, “In this matter Ash has attended British court five times and each time the Crown requested a adjournment because they were not prepared to proceed and they were granted so Ashley showed up to fight the charges against her and got sent home five times over a nine month period. Ash was unable to attend the final court date because she was violently ill with the flu and under Doctor’s order not allowed to travel thousands of miles by air because she was infectious and in weakened condition.” The last time, Ashley (despite being absent) was found guilty. Now, she and her husband are seeking a retrial, hoping that the record be set straight. Bill ends, by saying, “We have asked our lawyers to seek a retrial and have the UK wide warrant lifted which apparently is the procedure in the UK.” Bill, being a retired Chief Warrant Officer in the Canadian Army, also teaches an unarmed combat course based on my system of Modern Defendo to the British Army. He added that none of the soldiers he was teaching was involved in this incident.
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Desert Local News • September 27, 2009
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Desert Local News • September 27, 2009
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Desert Local News • September 27, 2009
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DHS Hispanic Community Speaks Up In Open Forum BY LESLIE ANDREWS
DESERT HOT SPRINGS, CAA bilingual forum took place Friday evening at the St. Elizabeth of Hungary Catholic Church in Desert Hot Springs, discussing the issues of how members of the Hispanic community have been treated by local police. Present at this meeting were Assemblyman Manuel Perez (D-80th District), Councilman Russell Betts, Mayor Pro Tem Karl Baker and Public Safety Commissioner Russ Martin. “When I look out here, I see half of the city,” said Betts, describing how nearly 52% of Desert Hot Springs residents are Hispanic. “I am here to listen and to learn, and I’m very happy to be here.” Residents who came to this forum spoke out against some of the practices of the Desert Hot Springs police department, primarily how they handle undocumented
immigrants. One spoke of how one Christmas day, a Mexican National went to get medicine for his children when all of a sudden, he was pulled over by a police officer. Because he lacked papers, he was arrested and his vehicle was impounded. The impound fees were so high that the family could not afford them. Another spoke of how he was pulled over outside of Stater Brothers Market for making an illegal left turn when in fact there were no signs in place. He was then given a hefty ticket, which he could not afford to pay. “These are situations we need to work on together, and I will work with the Chief of Police to help with these issues,” said Martin, who also encouraged citizens to attend the Public Safety Commission meetings. He also empathized with those who had to attend court for these infractions.
about how Sky Valley residents have lost bus service when it comes to bringing children to school. “We are carpooling to school because of the high gas prices,” said one resident. “I see vans filled with as many as six kids.” These parents have been pleading with the Palm Springs Unified School District to get bus service reinstated. “It’s going to take a long time and hard work to get these issues taken care of,” said Betts. “You have to keep pushing and pushing. I look at all the issues and some of them are very big problems. I don’t know if I could solve all of them. But by sitting here listening, I understand them better than before I walked into the building.” Chief Patrick Williams and Mayor Yvonne Parks were absent from this meeting. Congresswoman Mary Bono Mack was also invited but did not attend.
Besides police issues, a few spoke
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Desert Local News • September 21, 2009
Desert Local News • September 21, 2009
Save some green while living green during the holidays
Many people perceive a high cost associated with a “green” lifestyle. However, this holiday season, you can embrace eco-friendly living while actually saving money. Below are a few easy tips to make this holiday season green and cheery. Give green holiday cards Holiday cards are supposed to be from the heart, so take some extra time and attention and make them earth-friendly. Send holiday cards by using recycled paper which can be purchased on sites like HolidayCardsUnlimited.com, or, even better, use e-cards like those from 123greetings.com for a paper-free option. Give gifts that promote green living There are many perfect, green gift options for everyone on your list. Look into things like bamboo cookware for the chef, hand-cranking flashlights for outdoor enthusiasts and all-natural baked goods
for foodies. Organic bath products will be popular with the women in your life and eco-friendly clothing made from hemp, organic cotton and bamboo is perfect for the fashionistas. WhiteApricot. com makes it easy to be eco-friendly while saving money. Browse through fashion, beauty and lifestyle products, which are all featured with discounts of up to 70 percent off. Power up with rechargeable batteries With all the electronics and toys that find their way under the tree and the millions of digital pictures sure to be taken over the holiday season, Americans will spend nearly $700 million on batteries during this time. Rechargeable batteries can be used in any electronic device and save both money and space in landfills. One rechargeable battery can replace up to 1,000 disposable batteries. Rayovac, the nation’s fastest growing brand of rechargeable batteries, offers affordable rechargeable options for digital cameras, which tend to use batteries faster than any other device, and costs less than other rechargeable brands. Plus, Rayovac offers Hybrid rechargeable batteries which
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come precharged and hold their charge for up to six months when not in use, unlike other rechargeable batteries. This makes rechargeable batteries a great option for all devices. Share a piece of yourself Sometimes the best gifts are not about the monetary value, but about the sentimental value. Save money and resources by skipping to the local mall, and instead give gifts of you. Create coupons that are redeemable for your time whether it be baby-sitting, a date or shoveling snow. Get creative when wrapping gifts Don’t rely on the standard tradition of opening a new roll of wrapping paper just for the holidays. Get creative and use materials found around the house like magazines, newspapers and fabric. Re-using old gift bags or purchasing reusable bags are great options for reducing your waste as well. If you still prefer traditional wrapping paper, this year opt for purchasing recycled gift wrap. Look for some earth-friendly options at Greenraising.com. Courtesy of ARAcontent
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Green Pages Desert Local News • September 27, 2009
When going ‘green’ don’t forget the fourth ‘R’
Are you doing your part in helping to “green” America? We all know the three “R’s” that we should be practicing each and every day - reduce, reuse and recycle - but did you know about the fourth “R,” which helps you accomplish the other three? This “R” will not only cut down on your individual carbon footprint but will also save you money on your green home improvement projects. The fourth “R” stands for rental, the original green industry, and provides the solution to many of your environmentally friendly building needs. Not only is it a more economical choice, but it is also a greener choice than buying when it comes to your do-it-yourself project equipment needs. Reduce, reuse, recycle and rent “Going green” is a term used to describe being more environmentally conscious in all aspects of your life. The goal of “going green” is to practice behaviors that help reduce your overall carbon footprint, which is a measurement of all greenhouse gases we individually produce. Some people adopt this lifestyle in baby steps, gradually introducing more green products and behaviors into their everyday lives. Others adopt it on a much larger scale, replacing a number of harmful products or practices all at once. Either way, the planet benefits. But how does renting fit into a green lifestyle? Called the “original green industry,” renting is one of the few businesses that completely encompasses the other three “R’s” - when consumers share products
through rental, they are reducing their carbon footprint by reusing equipment that has already been manufactured, and recycling it on to the next person who needs it. Go green with rental Cutting down on waste is one of the main components of going green. This includes reducing the use of non-biodegradable packaging, excess energy consumption and harmful fuel emissions. One of the easiest ways to reduce your waste in all three of these areas is to “share” products that you know you will only be using on occasion. When working on home improvement or do-it-yourself projects, you will probably end up needing some tools you don’t have just lying around the house - an aerator, an auger or even a jackhammer. By renting these tools instead of buying new, you are not only reusing equipment, but you are also reducing the manufacturing, packaging and shipping process of new equipment. And since the American Rental Association, an international trade association for the owners, manufacturers and suppliers of equipment rental businesses, has members in every U.S. state and every Canadian province, you don’t have to travel far to get the equipment you need, reducing your own fuel consumption and pollution. To make finding the rental store nearest you even easier, ARA offers RentalHQ.com, the world’s largest and most comprehensive
rental store locator. Here, homeowners and do-it-yourselfers can find the rental store nearest them, read how-to tips and get inspiration for their next green home improvement project. Sharing equipment also means you will always get the most eco-friendly and energyefficient tools available. The professionals in the rental industry handle the upkeep and maintenance of the equipment and make sure every tool complies with the latest industry and environmental standards. And unlike many other green investments, renting does not require a huge upfront cost. While many green products come with a larger price tag, with the understanding that they will pay off in the long run, renting is a more economical choice than buying new and will pay off immediately since you don’t have to worry about the storage and upkeep of the equipment. With the money you save by renting, you can invest in more environmentally friendly materials for your home improvement project and reap the cost savings for a lifetime. Whether you’re putting in new windows, installing more energy-efficient appliances or adding solar panels, there are many things you can do to ensure that you are helping the planet at the same time. To cut down on your carbon footprint and improve your energy efficiency, look to rental, the original green industry, to help “green” your next home improvement project. Courtesy of ARAcontent
Green Pages Desert Local News • September 27, 2009
The Squeeze Is On
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BY HANK HOHENSTEIN Last week a devastating report was released that was given virtually no coverage in the main stream media. Perhaps this oversight was that the report aggregates the regulatory costs of businesses in the State of California. It is a huge number. The author is Sanjay B. Varshney, PhD, Dean, College of Business Administration, California State University Sacramento. The title of the report is Cost of State Regulations on California Small Business Study. “The purpose of this effort is to measure and report the cost of regulation of small businesses in the State of California.” This is dull stuff so if you click it to another site I will understand, but … The work that Dr Varshney has done is original and necessary. It measures the impact of regulation by the state, which is in addition to the cost of regulation by the federal government. What we find out very quickly is that the total cost of state regulation (market interference) in California is $492,994,000,000. That means each of us has a lower standard of living. It also means we have lost 3,800,000 jobs. Small businesses make up 99.2% of all
employer businesses in California. Small business in this state and in this context means 20 or fewer employees. In other words, the economic bus in our state is driven by average everyday folks. The numbers used in this report are recent, 2007. But two numbers drive home the real cost of egulation. Each small business carries a regulatory burden of $134,122.48 and the labor income NOT generated was $4,359.55 per small business. The questions are: can we afford this? Are we, as a society, better off? Do we experience a better quality of life? Dr. Varshney, clearly points out that the drivers of growth and prosperity are innovation, risk taking and investment. We all know the bulk of these precious ingredients occur in small businesses. Thus an innovator is immediately faced with a huge disincentive. Most of us are aware of this whether from previous academic reports or we sensed it intuitively. Regulation is a burden. What is unique or different about this report is, that in the past the studies asserted that regulations have a cost. However, Dr
Varshney has attempted to quantify the impact. What are the costs in real dollars and lost jobs? There are two more important figures: the indirect business taxes not generated or lost were $57,260.15 per small business and one lost job per business! Think about this when our state does not balance its budget, when a teacher is laid off, when a youngster cannot get a class in college or unemployment climbs above 12 percent. What could we do with that money? I have often talked about the fact our state legislature enacts 2,000 new bills every year. This posses another question: what do those bills cost us? Is it any wonder California is at or near the bottom of all states as being business friendly? Where would you go if you had a bright idea? We can agree that some regulation may be necessary. Where is the point that regulations become burdensome and drag on society? When we are awash with money no one cares, we can run faster than the tsunami swelling behind us. We are about to be overwhelmed, what will we do?
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Desert Local News • September 27, 2009
Paid for by the Committee to elect Russell Betts I.D.1317810
MATT WEYUKER COLUMN DESERT LOCAL NEWS September 27, 2009
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AND RIGHTLY SO Former DHS Mayor Matt Weyuker
BY MATT WEYUKER
Well “law-of-the-land” lovers, it’s time for another of Uncle Matt’s “grim” tales. Last week was the 222nd anniversary of the passage of our nation’s brilliantly inspired self-government founding document– the Constitution of the United States of America, but there was little if any media coverage. Could it be that they didn’t want to embarrass or deter the president and the congress from deliberating on their “unconstitutional healthcare reform” legislation? Herein lies the “grim” tale. In reading the Constitution, one sees that congress can only legislate in 17 limited areas – otherwise if called into question, why doesn’t the US Supreme Court deem their actions “unconstitutional?” When I worked in the state capitol, all legislation was reviewed by the Legislative Counsel’s office before introduction by a Legislator to see if the bill was “constitutional.” I’m surprised that congress gets away with introducing measures that are so clearly “unconstitutional” – or that no “legalbeagles,” especially the high court, try to stop them. Our “grim” saga of “constitutional illegality” continues with some opinions regarding the unconstitutionality of “Obamacare.” Despite what congressional Democrats and/or President Obama claim, all of the proposals contain the following – medical care rationing, (especially seniors), free care for illegals, free abortions, and forced coverage participation (or there are “taxes and
penalties”). As scary as this is, it only scratches the surface – if this “healthcare reform” legislation is adopted, our country’s Constitution will be forever altered – because it’s being used as a cover-up for the most massive power shift to the Executive Branch in US history! Checks and balances anyone? This legislation provides for access by the IRS to your personal healthcare information – your doctors, procedures done, and prescription medicines, in addition to your financial, and employment information they already acquire – all of this, a direct violation of the protections afforded us under the 4th Amendment that protects against illegal searches and seizures. These safeguards would be obliterated! If anyone decides enroll in “healthcare insurance,” or the “Healthcare Choices Administrator” of the Obama administration deems your medical plan “unacceptable,” you will be “taxed.” It’s not a “fine,” because that would violate the “due process” clause of the 5th Amendment. However, there is nothing in the law that allows one to contest or appeal a “tax.” This law will nullify those 2 pesky amendments that the far-left despises. Wait – the “grim” story gets worse – the 9th Amendment states, “The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the
people.” The 10th Amendment provides, “The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are preserved to the States respectively, or to the people.” Under the provisions of the “healthcare reform” congressional “handiwork,” neither the people nor the states will have any rights or powers that once were theirs to control, as our Founding Fathers obviously intended. The “grim” saga ends with this caveat – the “healthcare reform” attempt by the president and congress is not really about providing more people with medical coverage, it’s all about the federal government seizing power and limiting rights. Article 6 of the US Constitution REQUIRES affirmation by members of both houses of congress to “BE BOUND BY OATH OR AFFIRMATION” to support the Constitution. How dare they violate that oath for their own personal agendas? Isn’t about time for someone to really listen to the American people? We need some straightforward politicians like “Give‘em-hell-Harry,” (President Harry Truman), or a Senator Barry Goldwater to be truthful with us – And Rightly So.
©
Opinions expressed in this publication are those of the relevant contributors.
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Desert Local News • September 27, 2009
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REAL ESTATE • DESERT LOCAL NEWS September 27, 2009
H
aving been the former Mayor of the City of Desert Hot Springs, and being a longtime real estate broker, few can better express the uniqueness of the City of Desert Hot Springs and Coachella Valley at large and articulate the full brightness of its’ socio-economic and political future to an investor/developer.
Yes! Investment opportunities do still exist, even in today’s volatile marketplace. Entrepreneurship is the key to success! One has to create ones own economic recovery “stimulus plan and implement it with extreme prejudice!” Alex W. Bias Broker/Owner Former Mayor of Desert Hot Springs
Need local help implementing your “stimulus plan”, I might be the land acquisition, development, sales Consultant you need. If you know what you want, I can help you get it!
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Desert Local News • September 27, 2009
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Editorial Desert Local News • September 27, 2009
Be afraid, be very, very afraid BY JOE MCKEE Every election cycle we are bombarded by politicians. They mainly want to give us reasons to vote for them. But, one of the more common tactics these days is the vote for me or die message. Tax increases for increased services are also cloaked in this mantel. If we don’t have more firemen, prison guards or police we are all going to die. Is this an effective tactic? In my experience many more people have been elected by scaring people than providing solutions to the problems that we face in our day to day lives. In the last few election cycles keeping us safe from terrorism has been one of the defining issues. Almost 3,000 people were killed on 9/11. I still grieve for the people that died on that day. That we haven’t brought those who are responsible for that day to justice is a scar on our national conscience. However, instead of handling this as a law enforcement issue, we invaded two countries, one of which had nothing to do with 9/11. We should have hunted them down and shot them
for what they did. In reaction to this event we have spent trillions of dollars in the Defense Department and the Department of Homeland Security. As a cause of death,however, this pales in comparison to the big boys. Every year it is estimated that 400,000 people die because they smoke cigarettes. That is over two 9/11s per week. Since 9/11 3,200,000 Americans were killed by smoking. Last time I checked no one suggested we bomb and invade North Carolina for those deaths. 100,000 per year die because of the use of alcohol. Jack Daniels has not been punished for that. 43,000 die every year in car accidents. We haven’t destroyed Detroit… Wait a minute we did destroy Detroit. 30,800 people were killed with guns. Most of them were suicides. We didn’t hold the NRA responsible for those deaths. On a local level, the number of people in prison in California has gone from 76,171 in 1988 to 171,444 in 2007. It costs us $49,000 per year for each inmate. Not included in this cost is the
capital needed to build the prisons. It is the expense to guard, feed, provide medical services, and maintain the physical plant. That is 10.6 billion dollars. A similar number of people are on probation. Let me ask a simple question. Do you feel safer than you did in 1988? Let me give you a statistic you probably don’t know. The average person in state prison reads at a 7th grade level. Do you think reducing the dropout rate in our school system might be a better way of dealing with crime in our state than throwing people away? I am not foolish enough to believe I have all the answers to our problems. But, I do know this. If we allow our emotions to color our decisions at the ballot box, we are not likely to fix much. We will be distracted by events that, while important, are not the major issues that confront us. ©
Opinions expressed in this publication are those of the relevant contributors.
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Desert Local News • September 27, 2009
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