Dana Eagle
September 3, 2010 Issue 34 • Labor Day
Dating Younger Women
Finding Your Inner Caveman Page 23
An Evening with Bill Maher
Bill Maher, star of HBO’s” Prime Time with Bill Maher,” headlined Saturday night at Morongo Casino Resort. Opening for Maher, Dana Eagle. ~Photo by Allen Lawrence
News • People • Entertainment • Living • Wellness • Casino & Spa Resorts • US $2.95
Happy Labor Day Max Liebermann Publisher ADVERTISEMENT 760-301-6291 info@desertlocalnews.com NEWS ROOM Max Report DLN Editor Editor/Senior writer Leslie Andrews Entertainment Editor Kip Allen PalmSpringsGuides.com STAFF WRITERS Vicki Lawson Dr. Lisa Robyn Lawrence Dr. Allen Lawrence Pat Krause Editorials Just the Fact’s Max PHOTOGRAPHERS Bruce Montgomery Pat Krause Catherine Jardine Max Liebermann Advertisement call 760-449-8235
NEWS OFFICE: 14080 Palm Drive Suite D3
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PalmSpringsGuides Magazine Publisher Lisa Robyn Lawrence with David Gandara and Max Liebermann at Morongo Casino enjoying the Bill Maher show. ~Photo by Allen Lawrence
Contents ‘What is Labor Day? Tips to stretch your back-to-school dollars this fall The Bitch and the Experts! Home for the Holidays Mary J. Blige at Fantasy Springs Sweet Summer Entertaining First Wind gets Utah started An evening with Bill Maher Dot Reed turns 80 Finally... Borrego Clinic Dating younger women Palm Springs Fiesta Days Searching for the Truth in Politics Move DC by Hank Hohenstein An American Classic The War Against Xenophobia
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Desert Local News September 3, 2010
‘What is
Labor Day?’
©
Energy, LTD.
Happy Birthday Dot
By Nicola Kennedy If someone were to ask you the question, “What is Labor Day?” could you really answer it? I doubt many of us really know anything about the holiday other than the fact that it is the first Monday in September and is the official end of summer. It used to signal the beginning of the new school year, but with more schools returning to classes in middle or late August that is no longer the case, though the beaches and other summer activities continue throughout Labor Day weekend. The tradition of celebrating Labor Day as a national holiday is over one hundred years old. From its original conception as a labor union celebration, it has grown to be symbolic of the end of summer activities. It began in 1882 in New York as a parade by the Knights of Columbus to give credit for the contributions to New York life of working class citizens. In 1884, a large parade organized by the Knights to celebrate the working class. The first Monday in September was chosen for the date of the parade, and the Knights decided to hold all future parades on that day. From then on the Knights designated the first Monday in September as Labor Day. Similarly, the Socialist Party held a celebration in honor of the working class on May 1st , a date that became known as May Day. It was celebrated by both Socialists and Communists, thus in the United States, the first Monday in September was selected in order to disassociate itself from any identification with Communism.
Dorothy ‘Dot’ Reed hosted her 80th birthday party for the benefit of the Soroptimist House of Hope. Dot was given a “Mom of DHS” special award. ~Photo by Bruce Montgomery
Wind Is Our Friend Toward the end of the last decade of the 1800’s, labor organizations to lobby state legislatures to observe Labor Day as an official state holiday. In 1887, the first states declared it a state holiday: Oregon, Colorado, New York, Massachusetts, and New Jersey. In 1894, Congress passed a law that designated Labor Day as an official national holiday. Currently Labor Day is celebrated in the United States, Canada, and other industrialized countries. Though in the U.S. it is a general holiday, which
Desert Local News September 3, 2010
also designates the end of the summer season; in European countries its roots to the working class remains clear. About Nicola Kennedy: Nicola always enjoys celebrating Labor Day and the end of summer. Visit her site Labor Day 2006 site for Labor Day party tips and information at http://labor-day.your-holiday.info Published At: Isnare.com Free Articles Directory - http://www.isnare.com/ Permanent Link: http://www.isnare. com/?aid=66121&ca=Culture
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Tips to stretch your back-to-school dollars this fall
By Staff Going back to school usually means new books, supplies and computer software as well as meals, coffee and tuition - all of which can really add up. Maxine Sweet, vice president of public education at Experian, offers up money saving tips to make sure you can live within your budget this school year.
Don’t start the school year out with a balance. If you purchase something you can’t afford to pay back, your payments might be late or missed and that could negatively affect your credit score and ultimately impact your ability to access credit again in the future.
Establish a budget - and stick to it. Sign up for a free online budgeting tool and look at your expenses to figure out where you may be able to cut back on unnecessary spending and how you plan to pay for any large purchases you need to make.
Be informed before you buy. Carefully review your favorite stores’ weekly ads or consider using a free online a service such as PriceGrabber.com, which allows you to compare prices on thousands of items including electronics, furniture, books, movies and even groceries to help you get the best prices. For more information, visit www.Experian.com/backtoschool. Courtesy Ara 4
Desert Local News September 3, 2010
HIGH HOLIDAYS DESERT HOT SPRINGS and the HI DESERT
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 for Jewish residents of DHS or the Hi Desert
Rosh HaShanah Services Friday,
September 8
7:00pm
Rosh HaShanah Services Saturday,
September 9
10:00am
Kol Nidre Services
Sunday,
September 17
7:00pm
Yom Kippur Services
Monday,
September 18
10:00am
Discussion groups at 1:00 Yizkor at 4:00 Nilah at 4:30
BREAK FAST served after Yom Kippur services No charge for residents of Jewish residents of DHS and the Hi Desert
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 Desert Local News September 3, 2010
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The Bitch and the Experts! By Michael Knell Well Darlings, You may remember a popular saying attributed to yours truly: “Today’s experts are tomorrow’s idiots far too often for us to take them seriously.” I first wrote that more years ago than I care to remember, however it remains as relevant today as ever. Now you might ask: what has that to do with politics, the subject around which I normally base this column? So let me explain: it’s all to do with money – and frequently the taxpayers’ money. When you trace back the origins of the capital required to carry out any kind of research, you will find all too often it comes from our pockets, either in taxation or as a hidden addition to the cost of some product we purchase. So the regular shouts of “Eureka!” erupting from our scientists’ mouths are usually at our expense. There’s nothing wrong with that, you might think, as you (say) cough up for the latest shampoo on the market simply because research shows adding a certain something to what is basically soap can be beneficial - and as we all have the choice of whether or not to buy the product, probably there is nothing wrong. However it’s when the government simply hands out our money to pay for research, and we have no choice, that might need questioning. I thank the online Nursing Times for telling me: “Eating more leafy green vegetables can reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, according to a recent study.” It’s the
first line of an article that then goes on to say: “However, scientists led by Patrice Carter at the University of Leicester say they need to investigate further, because they are still unclear about the relationship between a person’s intake of fruit and vegetables and the metabolic disorder.” Now excuse me for being stupid here, but just what has this study proved? And what can any further investigations prove? Has the human race learned anything new or beneficial from it? Or is it likely to in the future? No, I would say! For as long as I can remember, eating vegetables (especially greens), and a fair amount of fruit, has proved beneficial to our health. It’s a long and well established fact, time served, so why has someone paid (and indirectly it is probably us!) for this ridiculous study to be undertaken? We already know what is good for us to eat, and in the days when we ate it, we had far fewer of the alarming ailments seen today - including type 2diabetes. For something that is such a no-brainer, do we really need to spend money in order to prove it? I can put it no better than someone who calls himself: Mike, and who has so aptly commented on the article: “For crying out loud. Regular exercise and a healthy diet that includes a balance of fibre, protein, carbs and lots of vits and minerals from fresh fruit and veg will keep you healthy and stave off a lot of lifestyle
About The Author
associated illnesses. Can I get a bloody great research grant and sit on my backside for a year now that I’ve stated the bleeding obvious?” And that is the crux of the matter, you see? How many of these “experts” are we paying to do little more than substantiate their worth (to retain their jobs) by coming up with just about anything that might keep the money rolling in? Isn’t it time government and responsible departments took a little more care before allocating our hard-earned money to pay for research? Of course, I fully appreciate a great deal of research is vitally important, and I wouldn’t want to denigrate the good work some scientists do, but I fear these days far too much of it is a waste of our money. If any of our universities were about to announce they had invented the wheel, and given a little more money they might just be able to make it turn, I do apologise! Never mind, there’s always red wine and its derivatives to fall back on, I suppose. In my lifetime, research on that has changed the experts’ opinions so many times to be unbelievable, and leaves me unaware of their current position. Is it really beneficial to our hearts and blood circulation, or does it produce defects in our uric acid metabolism resulting in deposits of the acid and its salts congregating in our blood and joints to give us gout? Answers on a twenty pound note, please – or a fifty, if you can spare it!
“The Bitch!” column, written by the author Michael Knell, appears on the Blackpool Gay Scene website http://www.astabgay.com weekly, though it is only rarely gay in content. Find out more about Michael and his published books at http://www.michaelknell.com where there are also a few free short stories to read, and a couple of disturbing novellas to download.
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Desert Local News September 3, 2010
Home Holidays for the
Gather Family and Friends for an International Feast, Right at Home. ECES
As family and friends gather this holiday season, share the joy of food by including easy to prepare versions of dishes from around the world right in your own kitchen. Begin some new traditions that will become family favorites for years to come. Start your holiday festivities with a French inspired Baked Brie with Cherries and Nuts. The Black Forest Brownie Jumble will bring to mind a cake with roots in Germany. And, the star of your holiday table will be the Manhattan Cake. Whether you choose the version made from scratch or the one from a cake mix, this yummy cake is our tip of the hat to New York. Maraschino Cherries, which originated in the Adriatic Region of Europe, are the inspiration for these recipes and, along with all of the other ingredients, they are readily available at your local supermarket. Bring holiday joy and flavor to your favorite dishes and drinks by adding color, taste and fun with maraschino cherries! Quick and Easy Manhattan Cake
Manhattan Cake from Scratch
Baked Brie with Cherries & Nuts Serves 8 1/2 cup sliced almonds 1 small wheel (8 oz) brie cheese 1/4 cup chopped maraschino cherries (about 12 cherries) 2 Tbsp. apricot jam 1 egg Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Spray a baking sheet with cooking spray. Coarsely chop nuts and place half the nuts on the baking sheet, shaping them into a circle the size of the brie. Reserve remaining nuts. Remove wrapping from brie. With a sharp knife split brie in half horizontally. Mix together the cherries and jam, spread the mixture on the bottom half of the brie and then sandwich brie pieces back together, pressing well. Whisk the egg in another shallow bowl. Dip the brie on all sides into the egg mixture. Then press eggdipped brie into the nuts on the baking sheet. Cover the top of the brie with remaining nuts, pressing nuts into brie to adhere. Bake for about 15 minutes or until nuts are toasty and cheese is soft.
Makes 1 cake – serves about 10-12 2 (10 oz) jars maraschino cherries 4 large eggs 1 Tbsp. grated fresh orange zest 3/4 cup Maker’s Mark bourbon 2 Tbsp. red (sweet) vermouth 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 2 cups granulated sugar 1 tsp. baking powder 1/2 tsp. baking soda 1 1/2 tsp. salt 16 Tbsp. (2 sticks) butter, cut into chunks, softened Glaze 1 cup powdered sugar 2 Tbsp Maker’s Mark bourbon Preheat oven to 350°F. Drain cherries and reserve 6 cherries for garnish; roughly chop remaining cherries. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, orange zest, bourbon, and vermouth until combined. Set aside. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Blend with an electric mixer on low speed, adding butter, 1 chunk at a time. When all butter has been incorporated, beat at medium-low speed until mixture is crumbly, about 30 seconds. With mixer on low, add egg mixture in a steady stream. Scrape down the sides of the bowl, increase speed to medium-high, and beat until batter is light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Stir in chopped cherries. Lightly grease or spray a non-stick Bundt pan, and pour batter evenly into pan. Bake in preheated oven on a lower rack until a toothpick inserted into the middle of the cake comes out clean, about 40 – 45 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through baking. Let cool for 15 minutes in the pan. While the cake is cooling, make the glaze. In a small bowl, mix together the glaze ingredients until smooth. Unpan the cake onto a cookie sheet or serving platter and drizzle with glaze while cake is still slightly warm. Garnish with reserved maraschino cherries.
Black Forest Brownie Jumble Makes 16 brownies 1 box (21 oz) fudge brownie mix 2 eggs 1/4 cup water 1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted butter 16 chocolate cookie wafers, broken into large pieces 1 jar (10 oz) maraschino cherries, drained and halved 1/2 cup chocolate chips 3/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional) 3/4 cup sweetened condensed milk (not evaporated milk) Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Mix brownie mix, eggs, water and oil in a large bowl until well blended. Spread batter in a 13"x9" greased pan. Scatter top of batter with cookie pieces, cherries, chocolate chips and walnuts. Drizzle with condensed milk. Bake for about 35 minutes or until topping is golden. Let cool and then cut 4x4 into 16 pieces. Cook’s Note: If using a glass baking pan, increase cooking time to 40 minutes.
Desert Local News September 3, 2010
Makes 1 cake – serves about 10-12 2 (10 oz) jars maraschino cherries 1 box (18.25 oz) super-moist yellow cake mix 3 eggs 3/4 cup Maker’s Mark bourbon 1/4 cup red (sweet) vermouth 1/3 cup vegetable oil Glaze 1 cup powdered sugar 2 Tbsp Maker’s Mark bourbon Preheat oven to 350°F. Drain cherries and reserve 1/4 cup of juice and 6 cherries for garnish; roughly chop remaining cherries. Combine the cake mix, eggs, bourbon, vermouth, oil and the 1/4 cup reserved cherry juice in a large mixing bowl. Blend with an electric mixer on low speed for 30 seconds. Stop and scrape the sides of the bowl and then mix on medium speed for 2 minutes. Fold in the chopped cherries. Lightly grease or spray a non-stick Bundt pan, and pour batter evenly into pan. Bake in preheated oven on a lower rack until a toothpick inserted into the middle of the cake comes out clean, about 35 – 40 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through baking. Let cool for 15 minutes in the pan. While the cake is cooling, make the glaze. In a small bowl, mix together the glaze ingredients until smooth. Unpan the cake onto a cookie sheet or serving platter and drizzle with glaze while cake is still slightly warm. Garnish with reserved maraschino cherries.
For additional recipes visit NationalCherries.com Recipes created by the Kathy Casey Food Studios for the National Sweet Cherries Foundation.
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Desert Local News September 3, 2010
Pyrate Days At Yucca Valley
Aye Aye Mateys! We’re looking for some pirates and piratical merchandise vendors to join us for The Yucca Valley Chamber of Commerce Scholarship Foundation Second Annual Pyrate Days at Yucca Valley, Saturday and Sunday October 23rd and 24th. Join us for a wonderful, FREE family fun-filled weekend of pirates, music, vendors, and food. Gates open 10:00 a.m. with over 35 vendors and a unique assortment of food, games
and merchandise. Live entertainment includes two local bands, with The California Celts on Saturday from 3-5 PM, and There Be Pirates perform Sunday at 2pm. All proceeds go to local students and innovative teaching grants. If you would like to be one of our select vendors, log onto www. yuccavalley.org for a vendor signup form, or contact the Chamber office for more information. 760-365-6323
Desert Local News September 3, 2010
Debbie McGowan
760-774-3557
DebbMcGowan@aol.com
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Fully Air Conditioned Salon • Open 7 days
Hair Salon
Women’s,Men’s and Children’s Hair Cuts, Facials,Updo’s,Highlights,Wax, Shampoo Set,Hair Color & Touch-up.
288-7398
Stylist for 15 years • Men’s cut specialist Openfade 7 days a week
Walk-ins or Appointment
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12106-APalm Drive, Desert Hot Springs, CA (Next to Thai Palm Restaurant)
Desert Local News September 3, 2010
September 2010
Desert Hot Springs Senior Center 11-777 West Dr. Desert Hot Springs, Ca. 92240 760-329-6411 Ext 212 Monday – Friday 8:00a-4:00p th
Monday
Closed Monday September 6 8:00a Wii 10:00a-12:00p Bridges of Hope will take food orders that will be brought in on Fridays 10:30a Arthritis Exercise $2.00 members $3.00 nonmembers 11:30a Lunch $3.00 donation appreciated Tuesday 8:00a Wii 8:00a Spanish Class 8:30a Chair Massage donations appreciated 9:00a Blood Pressure 9:30a Fun Singing 10:45a Tai Chi $2.00 members $3.00 nonmembers 11:30a Lunch $3.00 donation appreciated 12:00p Pinochle Wednesday 8:00a Wii 8:00a Paralegal Services by appointment First and Second Wednesday of the month 9:00a Mahjong Chinese Tile Game 11:30a Lunch $3.00 donation appreciated 10:00a Line Dancing will resume September 8th Thursday 7:45a Tops 8:00a Wii 10:45a Tai Chi $2.00 members $3.00 nonmembers 11:30a Lunch $3.00 donation appreciated 12:00p Pinochle no charge Friday 8:00a Wii 10:30a Arthritis Exercise $2.00 members $3.00 nonmembers 11:30a Lunch $3.00 donation appreciated 12:00p Fun Singing 5:30p-7:00p Ballroom Dancing Classes no charge
Desert Local News September 3, 2010
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Coming September 5th
MARY J. BLIGE 8PM · SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 5th SPECIAL EVENTS CENTER TICKETS $59 - $109 • Purchase Tickets Special Offers
MARY J. BLIGE CONCERT HOTEL SPECIAL
One Night Package from $469 (Promo Code: MJB10) INCLUDES: Deluxe Room for 2 2 Premium Seat Tickets $20 in Free Play $100 Restaurant Credit for Bistro or POM
Call 800-827-2946 for Reservations. For what’s sure to be a fun-filled Labor Day weekend, Mary J. Blige has been confirmed to play her very first concert in the Palm Springs area on Sunday, Sept. 5th at 8pm at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino. The nine-time Grammy award winning artist plans on playing songs from her 2009 release, “Stronger with Each Tear” and hits from her long R & B career. Blige has recently appeared as a guest judge on American Idol, 30 Rock and several film projects. She and opera singer Andrea Bocelli recently released a duet of Simon & Garfunkel’s classic song “Bridge Over Troubled Water.”
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Desert Local News September 3, 2010
Summer Entertaining Summertime brings longer days, warmer weather and many opportunities to enjoy the company of family and friends at barbeques, picnics and block parties. If not planned out wisely, though, these parties can mean high-calorie meals that aren’t kind to your waistline. By making a few simple substitutions, you can easily cut calories, added sugar and make any summer meal healthier. SPLENDA® Signature Chef and expert entertainer, Katie Brown, suggests serving fresh, nofuss recipes that feature the bold, bright flavors of healthy fruits and vegetables that are currently in season. “A fresh summer salad with a light citrus dressing is one of my summer entertaining staples,” said Brown. “I also love baking pies, especially during the summer months, because they are such a classic American dessert.” Brown also suggests using SPLENDA® Sweetener Products in place of sugar in some of your favorite party foods, like snack mix or fruity beverages. “Your guests will enjoy themselves more knowing that they are indulging in delicious food while not going overboard on calories.”
Recipes courtesy of Katie Brown and Splenda.
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Chef Katie Brown’s Nostalgic Apple Pie
prepared double pie crust cups baking apples, thin-sliced, cored, peeled cup SPLENDA® No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated 3 tablespoons cornstarch 3/4 teaspoon cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg 1/8 teaspoon salt 1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Place one crust into a 9-inch pie pan. 2. Place sliced apples into a large mixing bowl and set aside. Combine SPLENDA® Granulated Sweetener, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt in a small bowl. Sprinkle mixture over apples and toss. Spoon apple mixture into piecrust. Place the second crust over the filling. Seal edges, trim and flute. Make small openings in the top crust. 3. Bake in preheated 425 degrees F oven 40-50 minutes or until the top crust is golden. Serve warm or chilled. Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of pie). Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 8 servings): Calories: 310; Calories from Fat: 140; Total Fat: 15g;Saturated Fat: 4.0g; Cholesterol: 0mg; Sodium: 270mg; Total Carbs: 43g; Dietary Fiber: 5g; Sugars: 16g; Protein: 3g
Barbecued Chicken
Barbecue Sauce 3 cups reduced-sugar ketchup 1/4 cup SPLENDA® Brown Sugar Blend 1/3 cup cider vinegar 3 tablespoons prepared yellow mustard 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce 2 tablespoons molasses 1 tablespoon paprika 11⁄2 teaspoons salt 11⁄2 teaspoons garlic powder 3/4 teaspoon onion powder 3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper 2 teaspoons liquid smoke Chicken 1/4 cup SPLENDA® Sugar Blend 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 1 cup hot tap water 3 cups cold water 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper 1. Combine all ingredients for barbecue sauce in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer 20 minutes, or until slightly thickened. (Top with a splatter guard during cooking.) 2. Use immediately or cool, cover, and refrigerate for up to 1 month. 3. Combine SPLENDA® Sugar Blend, salt, and hot water in 1-gallon zipper-lock bag and shake to dissolve SPLENDA® and salt. Add cold water and chicken. Press air out of bag, seal, and refrigerate 1½ to 2 hours. 4. Remove chicken from brine and discard brine. Refrigerate chicken until half an hour before you want to grill it (up to 1 day). Pat chicken dry with paper towels and sprinkle all over with pepper. Let rest at room temperature for 20 minutes. 5. Heat grill to medium-high. Brush grill grate and coat with oil. 6. Put chicken on grill, cover, and cook 5 to 7 minutes on one side. Flip chicken and brush with barbecue sauce. Cook another 5 to 7 minutes, or until chicken is no longer pink and juices run clear (about 170 degrees F on an instantread thermometer). 7. Coat chicken with 1½ cups Sweet and Smoky Barbecue Sauce. Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 8 servings): Calories: 270; Calories from Fat: 60; Total Fat: 7g;Saturated Fat: 1.5g; Cholesterol: 70mg; Sodium: 1770mg; Total Carbs: 25g; Dietary Fiber: 1g; Sugars: 68g; Protein: 22g
For more information and recipes, visit www.Splenda.com
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Southern Iced Tea
cups water, divided family size tea bags cup SPLENDA® No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated Optional Flavoring: ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice Optional Garnish: mint sprigs, lemon slices. 1. Bring 3 cups of the water to a boil. Pour over tea bags; cover and steep 10 minutes. Remove and discard tea bags, squeezing gently. 2. Stir SPLENDA® Granulated Sweetener into tea; add remaining 2 cups water. Add lemon juice, if desired. Serve over crushed ice. Garnish, if desired. Serving Size: 1 (6 fl oz) drink. Substitute three or four regular-size tea bags or 1 tablespoon loose tea for 1 family-size tea bag. Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings): Calories: 15; Calories from Fat: 0; Total Fat: 0g;Saturated Fat: 0g; Cholesterol: 0mg; Sodium: 5mg; Total Carbs: 4g; Dietary Fiber: 0g; Sugars: 3g; Protein: 0g
Send A Pie To Help Feed The Hungry
SPLENDA® Sweetener and Meals on Wheels sweetened Independence Day this year by delivering slices of apple pie – baked with Chef Katie Brown’s recipe – to those in need across America. You can still help by visiting www.Facebook.com/Splenda and virtually creating your favorite slice of pie to share with family and friends. SPLENDA® Sweetener donated $50,000 to Meals on Wheels Association of America and if 25,000 additional slices of pie are sent by Labor Day, SPLENDA® Sweetener will donate an additional $5,000. Start spreading the sweet today!
First Wind gets Utah started on Wind Energy Opportunities By Ashly Sun The Milford Wind Corridor, a First Wind Milford project, is a 203.5 megawatt wind farm with a total investment of $86 million. The project paved the way for hundreds of job opportunities as well as energy security to Milford region. The First Wind farm is built with 97 First Wind turbines, and is primarily in charge of producing electricity for the Southern California Public Power Authority under a 20-year purchasing power agreement. The Milford wind farm has a capacity to power 45,000 homes annually and was able to generate 250 employment opportunities for residents in the area. The project is just one among many renewable energy possibilities for Utah. Aside from the First Wind Milford project, the wind farm in Spanish Fork had jumpstarted the wind energy sector in Utah in 2008. Non-profit organization Utah Clean Energy assessed the effect of lessening energy use by 20 percent and sourcing the 20 percent remaining electricity requirement from renewable energy sources by year 2020. According to the group, Utah can get as much as $310 million per year and generate 7,000 green collar jobs if the western state maximizes use of its renewable energy capacity, most especially its wind power. In their report called Building the Clean Energy Economy, the group stated that a Utah’s renewable energy sources included in the 20 percent clean energy scenario represents 475 megawatts for wind energy production.
The same scenario proposed a 241 megawatt resource for geothermal production, 150 megawatts for concentrating solar power with storage, 84 megawatts for residential and commercial solar photovoltaic distributed electricity and 23 megawatts for the biomass sector. An initial report stated that Utah did not have considerable capacities in terms of solar, wind and biomass energy, and that its renewable energy is based largely on hydropower alone. Despite this, a study of Utah’s energy landscape shoed that there are 91 wind states in Utah. The Utah Renewable Energy Zone task force had found 51 wind areas which can potentially generate over 9,145 megawatts. The task force said that 12 of the wind sites have a potential installed capacity of 1,830 megawatts. Wind resource is reported to be the greatest at a region near Milford, in a valley at the east of Beaver County. The areas which together can generate a combined potential capacity of 2,500 megawatts include Black Mountains, Black Rock, Chipman Peak, Milford North, Milford South, Mineral Mountains, Sevier Desert, and Wah Wah Valley. Through effective energy efficiency projects and compliant renewable energy policies, Utah can easily lower fuel prices, become energy independent, and become greener all a t the same time.
About The Author
Ashly Sun is a seasoned writer, having travelled around the world, largely putting all her experiences and the sights and sounds she has come across to paper. She now writes extensively about topics related to green news, mostly on renewable energy, but also on a variety of related topics as well. When not travelling around the world, she is based in Central Hong Kong, taking in the myriad colours, flavours, and scents of the melting pot that Hong Kong is known for.
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Desert Local News September 3, 2010
Six Great Summer Movies By David Mikelberg “Psycho” (Universal/June 16, 1960/Alfred Hitchcock)
Very soon, I am going to have to review this film at length. There are not enough superlatives for one of Hitchcock’s best. At a relatively low budget ($800,000), it may be the first “Indie” film, ever. It also features one of the funniest cameos (to me) in any film. Hitchcock cast a then unknown Ted Knight (Ted Baxter of the “The Mary Tyler Moore” show) in a noncredited role as a Policeman following Norman Bates’ arrest. Of course, recognizing him today, I can’t help but think that maybe he was there undercover for WJM-TV doing a special report on “Pplit Sersonalities.” Those familiar with the Ted Baxter character will realize there is not a typo in the preceding sentence.
“Heaven Can Wait” (Paramount/June 28, 1978/Warren Beatty and Buck Henry)
This lovely romantic comedy is the first remake of the 1941s “Here Comes Mr. Jordan.” When L.A. Rams star quarterback Joe Pendleton (Warren Beatty) is almost killed in a car accident, an overzealous angel (Buck Henry) takes Joe’s soul before his time. This mistake is discovered in the Afterlife by the benign, but mysterious Mr. Jordan (James Mason). Therein the fun begins. Julie Christie, Jack Warden, Dyan Cannon and Charles Groin round out an excellent cast. Everyone hits the right notes, especially Warden. The film was nominated for NINE Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
“Grease” (Paramount/June 13, 1978/Randall Kleiser)
The film adaptation of what was once the longest running show in Broadway history (3,388 performances)
became the year’s highest-grossing movie. This was due in part to John Travolta’s skyrocketing popularity; this was his follow-up to “Saturday Night Fever.” Danny Zuko (Travolta) and Sandy Olsson (Olivia Newton-John) are lovers during a summer at the beach. Eventually they part, but are reunited at Rydell High School, where Sandy has enrolled as a foreign exchange student from Australia. Oh yes, it gets more unbelievable from here.
didn’t make sense. The film also featured Barry Manilow’s Oscar nominated song, “Ready To Take A Chance Again.”
“Cat Ballou” (Columbia/1965/ Eliot Silverstein) Jane Fonda played “Cat Ballou” (Columbia/1965/Eliot Silverstein), the title character in this comedic western about a former schoolteacher turned outlaw. Cat is being chased by a desperado and befriends a drunken sheriff (Lee Marvin plays both roles, in his Oscar winning performance).
“Back To The Future” (Universal/July 3, 1985/Robert Zemeckis)
“Back To The Future” (Universal/ July 3, 1985/Robert Zemeckis) was a smash hit and the highest grossing film
“Foul Play” (Paramount/July 14, 1978/Colin Higgins)
“Foul Play” (Paramount/July 14, 1978/Colin Higgins) was one of the most anticipated films of the summer of 1978. The comedy/thriller starred Goldie Hawn as a timid librarian who gets caught up in murder and political intrigue after having some microfilm planted on her. Chevy Chase, in his film debut, plays a detective assigned to protect her and eventually falls for her. Hawn and Chase had terrific chemistry that kept the film going, even when the story Desert Local News September 3, 2010
of 1985. Zemeckis and co-writer Bob Gale created a truly original comedy/ adventure. Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox) is not too happy with his life in 1985. His friend, the eccentric Dr. Emmett Brown (the further eccentric and ever wonderful Christopher Lloyd) has created a time machine out of a DeLorean. Says “Doc”, “the way I see it, if your gonna build a time machine into a car, why not do it with some style.” PalmSpringsGuides.com 15
An Evening with Bill Maher Story by Lisa Robyn Lawrence Photos by Allen Lawrence
Bill Maher, star of HBO’s” Prime Time with Bill Maher,” headlined Saturday night at Morongo Casino Resort. The crowd began filtering in at 8:00PM for the 9:00PM performance due to a bit of start time confusion. Opening for Maher, to an almost empty showroom was, Dana Eagle, an unassuming, meek in appearance, comedienne. Dana came out on stage (in every sense) and began to engage the audience with her wry and enticing wit and humor. Her material is current, fresh and very funny. There were guffaws and lots of clapping in recognition of one subject or another. Dana kicked the audience into gear with a string of funny jokes. One was, “I know I had a crappy education because when I watch the History Channel I am at the edge of my seat saying ‘what happens next?’ Who’s going to win the Civil War, the North or the South?” Waves of laughter followed. By the end of Dana’s act the ballroom was filled to capacity and she got a well deserved, loud appreciative applause from the crowd. Bill Maher took the stage at Morongo to an audience of 1000+. His style has always been irreverent, noholds-barred and stripped-bare honest. No group, especially political, religious, ethnic or gender was safe from his astute observations and acerbic jabs. 16
At one point Maher bestowed the name of; ”Billy Bob’s Confederate Gun Club,” on the Republicans, who he says baselessly continue to accuse President Obama of threatening to take their guns away. Loud laughter and applause followed. Maher’s well honed wit sliced into our two main political parties, healthcare reform, the stock exchange and then he leaped into global politics and fanatical groups as well. Maher lunged forward into topics of global warming, immigration, terrorism, the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, religious zealots, men vs. women and infidelity issues of prominent politicians and celebrities. Laughter ensued. Maher called Sarah Palin a “MILF.“ after an audible gasp from the audience, Maher clarified, in this instance it stands for a “Mother I’d Like to Forget.” Maher also took aim at Palin’s mantra “I want my country back,” with a quick thrust, “Well, I want my country forward!” Whoops of agreement and more laughs followed. Maher accused G.W. Bush of setting the bar so low that of course President Obama looks good. In regard to Palin being a presidential hopeful, Maher parried, “The bar for any president has to be higher than just having a Face Book account.”
Desert Local News September 3, 2010
Arizona, or “Whityville,” as Bill said it should be re-named, didn’t get off too easily either. Then Maher parried into the issue of illegal aliens, racism and segue to the Mosque proposed to be built at Ground Zero. Maher delivered 2 hours of nonstop, quick paced edgy humor, sight gags and jokes on every subject, even religion, leaving the stage to a standing, thunderous ovation of appreciation for a side-splitting, tear rendering, laughter filled night. John and Judy of Indio told me that they never miss an opportunity to see Bill Maher live. His performances are never the same, always current to world events and just lots of fun. Thank you Bill Maher for a fantastic evening of first- class comedy. Visit Bill Maher’s official website http:// www. billmaher.com/ or www.billmaher.com/ Thank you Morongo for a night of unforgettable entertainment. Don’t miss Engelbert Humperdinck at Morongo on September 11, 2010. For more about Morongo http://www. morongocasinoresort.com/ or www. morongocasinoresort.com/
Dana Eagle
Bill Maher
at Morongo Casino Desert Local News September 3, 2010
17
Dot Reed, Mother of DHS, Turns 80!!! By Leslie Andrews Photos by Bruce Montgomery
Receiving Mom Of Dhs Award
Son Sean 18
Desert Local News September 3, 2010
DESERT HOT SPRINGS, CAFor 32 years, Dot Reed has made a big difference in the community of Desert Hot Springs, from the brownies that she bakes all the way to her community activism, plus her progressive leadership with the city’s Community and Cultural Affairs Commission. Now that she’s turned eighty, there is no slowing down for this active lady. On Saturday, she hosted her annual Birthday Party fundraiser, which benefits the Desert Hot Springs Soroptomist House of Hope, a recovery center for chemically-dependent women. Many community leaders, including City Councilman Karl Baker, Water Board Members John Furbee and Jeff Bowman all attended to wish her well. “She’s a go-getter at 80 and I wish her the best, plus many more birthdays to come,” said Maureen Williams, who is actually 81. “Many communities deserve to have Dot around.” In addition to a nice little chicken dinner and entertainment from Sean Keffer, Dot’s son-in-law who often sings at Desert Hot Springs’ annual Veterans Day events, everybody certainly had a great time. “It’s an honor for Desert Hot Springs to have her,” said Pat Hammers, Cathedral City’s City Clerk who temporarily served as an interim clerk in Desert Hot Springs for a while. And the woman of honor herself had confirmed that she will continue her efforts. “I love to give. It makes a big difference,” said Reed. “I get so much in return.”
Dot Reed 80th birthday party her family from Arizona
Daughters Sharon And Kathy
Great Granddaughter And Granddaughter Desert Local News September 3, 2010
19 19
Finally…
A clinic of their own:
Desert Hot Springs welcomes Borrego Community Health Foundation
By Leslie Andrews Photos by Bruce Montgomery DESERT HOT SPRINGS, CAAfter realizing how underserved the city of Desert Hot Springs needs a health care center, the Borrego Community Health Foundation decided to step in and open a center in town to make it all possible. On Tuesday, a special groundbreaking ceremony for the Desert Hot Springs Community Health Center, located centrally at 12-520 Palm Drive. Tours were given to the general public and for city and county leaders who helped make all of this possible. The new facility has seven rooms and will be open seven days a week, serving those with little or no insurance, regardless of ability to pay. After the grand opening, the following day, the new clinic was ready for operation and to serve the public. Previously, the nearest Borrego Community clinic was located on Date Palm Drive and Ramon Road in Cathedral City. The new clinic was all made possible through the help of Sidney Rubenstein, the director from the Desert Healthcare District and constant encouragement from the Desert Hot Springs City Council. Clients will also be able to get x-rays as well as standard medical care from the new center. The Eisenhower Medical Center of Rancho Mirage was able to donate x-ray equipment. “This has a lot to do with people who have no access nor know how to gain access to health care. We’ve known about this for a long time,” said Rubenstein. “Hospitals were struggling financially and we finally solved the problem. Desert Hot Springs was right there from the beginning. There were hardly any doctors up there and many people 20
did not have insurance. Over the last many years, we have tried to assemble many people up here and we studied what were their needs. We worked out an arrangement with the Borrego Community Health Foundation and we were thrilled with their results. We got what we needed.” The event was attended by many members of the public. Mayor Yvonne Parks spoke to thank Borrego Springs for the new clinic. City and county officials also were present for the celebration. “This is a really good day for our city. I’ve had calls from residents looking for help from this medical facility. I have several calls to make as soon as we conclude this opening ceremony to let them know help is now available,” said Councilman Russell Betts who attended with Mayor Pro Tem Scott Matas and Councilwomen Jan Pye.
Gary Melton Dir. of Health Administration for Inland Empire Health Plan
In 2007, the City of Desert Hot Springs broke ground on a Riverside County-proposed center located further south on Palm Drive near the Vons Shopping Center. However, the recent recession and County budget cuts kept this project from becoming a reality. Although the new medical clinic is located in a previously existing building that once housed a dental office, contractors and builders still had to be used and money was well budgeted. “We’re excited about this clinic. It’s a long overdue need for the clients of this community,” said Bruce Hebets, director of Borrego Community Health Foundation. “We’re very happy.” He expects business to pick up within the next two months. Desert Local News September 3, 2010
Dr. James Huot attending physician in DHS
DHS Community Health Center opening staff Argelia Tello, Ana Garcia, Jenenne Velasquez, Irma Vokovitch, Ziola Alvarado, Maria Alvarez, Sara Miranda. (BACK) Marlon Felix, Pam Maher, Angela Herrera.
DHS Mayor Yvonne Parks with Bruce Hebets CEO and Seth Brown Bd. Chairman of Borrego Community Health Foundation.
Israel Ochoa
Russ and Florence Martin
BCHF board members Nancy Hall, Leslie Greathouse, Sid Rubenstein
Mayor Pro Tem Scott Matas And Councilwoman Jan Pye With Mike Bradley Project Construction Builder.
Cynthia Preciado Chief Development Officer and Alfredo Ratniewski Chief Medical Officer.
Desert Local News September 3, 2010
Corina Velasquez 21
Dating Younger Women Finding Your Inner Caveman By Owen Dean Let’s face it. Nearly all of us more mature men love the idea of dating a younger woman....MUCH younger.... young enough to be a daughter! There, I said it. This is not to say that we have a “daddy complex.” No, contrary to how much this may upset older women, this is not what is going on. It’s actually how we are hard-wired. Let me explain... If you go back to caveman days, life was much more about raw instinct than about cultural rules. So men merely “took” women that looked good to them. And the women that looked good were the ones who were the youngest, fittest, and prettiest. It was all about procreation....who might produce the best offspring. OK, wake up caveman. We don’t live in those times anymore, but its easy to see why dating younger women is not something we should feel guilty about. In fact, women of all ages are hard-wired for certain things too. Their instincts are to look for protectors and providers. So, how can we make all of this instinctive stuff work in today’s society? Actually it’s pretty easy. 1. Recognize what’s happening instinctively beneath the surface of our
culture. You already know how women are programmed...just acknowledge that. 2. Be a MAN. Use your age to your advantage. Be someone she can look up to. Someone who has his stuff together. Someone who is accomplished....although that my not necessarily be about money. Someone who is strong....although that my not necessarily be about muscles. THESE are the things that ALL women are attracted to, but will certainly make it much easier to date younger women. If you notice, they are also the qualities that they will have a hard time finding in men of their own age. All you have to do is do a quick search for terms like “dating an older man” and you’ll see how many MILLIONS of younger women are looking for guidance in this arena. Thankfully, this is becoming much more accepted in our society. This is hardly a fluke. Instinct will always win out over culture. So, recognize you have certain assets like “experience” that make you more desirable than your younger counterparts. As a result, dating younger women is really pretty simple. Invite one back to your cave sometime...I think you’ll be surprised! To Your Dating Success, Owen Dean
About The Author
Owen Dean is the author of Timeless Manhood, and the creator of TimelessManhood. com. A well-known dating and relationship coach for guys in their 40s and 50s, many of whom are interested in dating younger women. He has helped thousands of men lead happier more productive love lives. The author invites you to visit: http://timelessmanhood.com
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Desert Local News September 3, 2010
Desert Local News September 3, 2010
23
PalmÊ SpringsÊ FiestaÊ Days
La La, Mariachi Reyna de Los Angeles, Los Fabulocos with Kid Ramos & Malo featuring Jorge Santana to Headline Palm Springs Fiesta Days 2-Day Festival to Showcase Latino Culture & Heritage By Jeff Hocker Palm Springs, CA August 26, 2010... Palm Springs Fiesta DaysA Celebration of Latino Heritage and Culture presented by Spa Resort Casino will be held Saturday, September 18 and Sunday, September 19 at the world-famous O’Donnell Golf Course in the heart of downtown Palm Springs. Tickets are available for purchase at Latino Books y Mas, Margarita’s and El Mirasol Restaurants and the Spa Resort Casino and Agua Caliente Casino box offices. The line-up includes the incomparable sounds of La La, Mariachi Reyna de Los Angeles (all female mariachi group), Los Fabulocos with Kid Ramos, The Blazers, Mark Guerrero, Cannibal & the Headhunters, MC Magic, El Chicano, Quetzal, Tierra, Serenata Mexicana and Malo featuring Jorge Santana. For performer bios, sponsors, 24
charities, general information or to purchase tickets, visit www.psfiestadays. com. “Keeping the dream alive for my father Lalo Guerrero who is recognized as the “Father of Chicano Music” is further fulfilled by playing events like Fiesta Days which celebrates the Latino culture,” said Mark Guerrero. Palm Springs Fiesta Days which coincides with Latino Heritage Month and the Bi-Centennial of Mexico’s Independence will showcase traditional Mexican mariachi music, Chicano rock, R&B, TexMex and good old fashion rock ‘n roll. Known one of the hottest, multi-talented, young Latino entertainers in the country today, Latino comedic star Ernie G will emcee the 2-day festival. He has appeared on HBO
Latino’s “Habla Again,” MUN2’s “Loco Comedy Jam,” as well as Sí TV’s “Latino Laugh Festival!” and their hip new show, “Inside Joke!” Currently, he can be seen on MTV Tr3s’ “Los Super Icons” and you might also remember him as the “Angry Angelino” from the Channel 13 News in Los Angeles! Fiesta Days presented by Spa Resort Casino will benefit a number of charities that serve the Coachella Valley including: American Friends of our Armed Forces, the Lions Club and the Rotary Club of Palm Springs, The Pinnacle Fund for Excellence in Education, Palm Springs USO, Odyssey Writes of Passage, Pegasus Riding Academy for the Handicapped and the Golden Rainbow Center SAGE. The festival would not be possible without the generous support of Spa
Desert Local News September 3, 2010
Resort Casino, Budweiser, Coca-Cola, City of Palm Springs, Wells Fargo Foundation, The Southern California Ford Dealers, Palm Springs Motors, Costco, el Jimador and Herradura tequilas and Latino Books y Mas. Fiesta Days will feature over 30 vendors and sponsors that will adorn the grounds of the O’Donnell Golf Course and surround the Music Festival. Vendors will include Latino arts & crafts, books, apparel, accessories, food and more. Ticket prices are $35.00 for adults, $60.00 for two day pass; $25.00 for children 12-17, $40 for a two day pass and a 10% discount for students, seniors and military personnel with valid identification. Children under 12 accompanied by an adult are admitted free.
Ticket Sale Locations: Palm Springs Fiesta Days Official Website • www. psfiestadays.com
Latino Books y Mas
123 North Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-323-3778
Margarita’s Restaurant
Spa Resort Casino
1000 East Tahquitz Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-778-3500
Agua Caliente Casino
140 East Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-323-0721
401 East Amado Road, Palm Springs 1-800-585-3737 (Star Tickets) 32-250 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage 1-800-585-3737 (Star Tickets)
El Mirasol Restaurant
For more information contact: J. Alex Gomez, 760-314-9392.; Clancy Grass, 818-908-9777 or AmClassicsMedia@aol. com or visit www.psfiestadays.com. For press inquiries contact Jeff Hocker, 760-320-5272 or jeffhocker1@gmail.com. Desert Local News September 3, 2010
25
Searching for Truth in Politics Scott F Paradis Politics and truth are words rarely found cohabitating. The phrase “political truth” may in fact be an oxymoron. One light-hearted definition of politics: [n: Poly “many” plus tics “blood-sucking parasites”] suggests a disdain for the people wielding power, or at the very least skepticism for the ability of the collective to manage itself. We have, over many years of careful posturing, unscrupulous conniving, and virulent patronizing, been able to turn politics away from cooperation, collaboration and interest in the greater good, toward competition, rhetorical (and sometimes physical) warfare and to the advantage of special interests where the highest bidder tends to secure the prize. As Plato wrote in The Republic: “Mankind will never see an end of trouble until... lovers of wisdom come to hold political power, or the holders of power... become lovers of wisdom.” A virtual impossibility in modern politics as those who are too smart to engage in politics are punished by being governed by those who are not (also a thought from Plato). Tis now the season though - the season of pundits and politicians - the mid-term elections are fast approaching. It is a time for the airwaves to fill with ill-conceived conjecture, embellished blame, hyperbole of every complexion, lofty rhetoric, heated arguments, and fanciful stories but nary a grain of straight talk, bared realities, in a word: truth. A typical message, delivered with hard-nosed conviction by a candidate
for Congress goes something like this: ‘If elected I will jumpstart the economy, create jobs, reduce out of control spending, get the United States out of foreign interventions, save the environment, revamp education and fix healthcare.’ usually all just for starters. These lofty goals are to be achieved by cutting taxes, reducing the size of government, reinvigorating the private sector, and reorienting the earth’s rotation - no sacrifice nor commitment by the electorate required. Now, is it just me, or do you have some trouble finding truth in that? Any candidate selling that snake-oil; painting a picture of his or her ascendency to omnipotence either suffers from a delusion: they do not know how our society, the economy, our system of government, the Constitution, or congress work; or they blatantly intend to manipulate and mislead. A candidate promoting such promises knows the masses are inclined to embrace any fanciful suggestions demanding nothing of them while offering the opportunity to stick it to the culprits of hard times the other guys. The Devil’s Dictionary offers, ‘Politics is the strife of special interests masquerading as a contest of principles. The conduct of public affairs for private advantage.” Einstein reinforced the disingenuous pretence of governance, “All of us who are concerned for peace, and triumph of reason and justice must be keenly aware how small an influence reason and honest good will exert upon events in the political field.”
About The Author
Well, if you are seeing what I am seeing in America and the world today, then you may believe as I do, that it is time to lay our souls bare. To dig our way out of the mess we have created we must address the unbridled truth. It is time to call a spade a spade. We must put truth back into politics. Shakespeare once eloquently inscribed, ‘There is a tide in the affairs of men, which taken at the flood, leads on to fortune; once missed will bind to shallows and misery.’ The tide of change is rising, but not in a way the pundits suggest. It is now time to take stock and take action - not for the good of the few but for the prosperity of the many. We like to think of ourselves as great patriots. And though we have lost confidence in “the system” we have plenty of confidence in this country. We must ride the tide of change to address the challenges we face, honestly and openly. The truth is sometimes hard to stomach, but stomach it we must. We must cooperate, collaborate and devote our collective talent and energy to the task. The American dream is not dead. We have the capacity to see with new vision, hear with new clarity, and act with new purpose. A little truth this election season, coupled with a genuine interest in finding our way will start us on a new path - a path of hope, a path of goodwill and ultimately a path of prosperity. As we enter this political season, search for the truth. Copyright (c) 2010 Scott F Paradis
Scott F. Paradis, author of “Promise and Potential: A Life of Wisdom, Courage, Strength and Will” http://www.promiseandpotential. com publishes “Insights” and a free weekly ezine, “Money, Power and the True Path to Prosperity”. Subscribe now at http://www.cachieve.com
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Desert Local News September 3, 2010
Move DC By Hank Hohenstein
We have listened to political rhetoric for a long time and the mood in America is uncertainty and in many cases fearful and angry. There is a sense we are drifting, at an accelerating pace, away from the values that created American exceptional ism. We are tired of those who make a career of politics. We are tired of politicians who do not seem to live at home. We are tired of lobbyists getting more ‘ear’ time than we do. We are tired of hearing what we know is not true. In many districts leadership has become incestuous. It is time to begin a serious dialogue about what we expect from our elected leaders. Are leaders simply focused on the acquisition of wealth and power? How long has it been since folks back home have been inspired? Most folks sense a paradigm shift and do not like it. In the past, they may have walked off the field but no longer. Our conversations in Move DC will not be in any specific political channel. Irrespective of political affiliation if a politician is disrespectful to the folks at home their party label will not save them. Our time will be spent talking principles not politics. A discourse on principles will allow us to apply our personal values. We will talk about the extraordinary benefits of choice. Here is the fundamental question: We elect people to sit in positions of power to represent us, but do we sense they are responsibly committed to us?
It is difficult to discern any application of a caring attitude. If our vision of America seems to be changing we need to change the leadership paradigm. We recommend that our new leaders are those who are Servant Leaders. What is servant leadership? It is the characteristic that a great leader is first a servant. That does not simply mean bringing home the ‘pork’. It is a leadership style that exhibits service before self and a sincere attitude of service to others. Perhaps we have been too subservient toward elected officials, but no longer. What else should we be seeking? To earn our trust, proposed leaders must exhibit characteristics of good stewardship. Have we exhibited good stewardship, by the way, we have spent money at all levels in the past several years? Is it good stewardship to continually centralize power (social, legal or financial)? Do we exhibit good stewardship when we decentralize power and give citizens the opportunity for greater choice? We want leaders who encourage personal responsibility and accountability. Americans are committed to changing leadership, but do we have a clear image of what we are seeking in the process? It seems plausible that we should describe the type of leader we seek. We want a good steward, a person who will not centralize power in federal or state capitols, we want a person who will act responsibly and tell us the truth. We want a Servant Leader. Desert Local News September 3, 2010
27
2010
28
SUMMER FIT FOODS
w
ECES
hen the summer heat starts to slow you down,
eating a fresh and healthy diet is a surefire way to boost your energy. Chef Michael Psilakis, Bon Appetit’s 2008 Chef of the Year, understands the importance of changing flavors and ingredients with the seasons. By using fresh, seasonal ingredients, dishes can
be
flavorful
while
remaining healthy. To enhance your summer menu, Chef
Psilakis
has
provided his top five fit facts to help stay healthy during these active months. In addition, he has shared two of his favorite summer dishes, Grilled Diver Scallops with Pistachio Crumble and Grilled Swordfish with Peaches, Pistachio Hummus and Fava Beans. “Both dishes incorporate seafood that is high in omega-3 fatty acids, fruits packed with vitamin C and pistachios, which are proven to lower cholesterol and reduce stress,” says Chef Psilakis. “Since summer is a time when produce is plentiful, it’s easy to create dishes that both your body and your taste buds will enjoy.”
Visit www.westernpistachio.org for more delicious summer recipes.
Recipes and photos courtesy of the Western Pistachio Assoc.
Grilled Swordfish with Peaches, Pistachio Hummus, and Fava Bean Salad
Grilled Diver Scallops with Pistachio Crumble, Cucumber and Feta Salad with Strawberry Vinaigrette
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients:
Instructions:
For swordfish and peaches: 4 swordfish steaks or filets (8 oz. each) 2 peaches – peeled, pit removed, quartered 1/4 cup pistachio oil* 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 1 teaspoon dry oregano
For swordfish and peaches: Preheat grill. Whisk together pistachio oil, lemon, salt, pepper and oregano. Reserve. Season both sides of peaches and swordfish. Sear on hot grill. When cooked (about 6-8 minutes), marinate in lemon-oil mixture and reserve.
For pistachio hummus: 1/4 cup pistachio paste** (not sweetened) 1/4 cup pistachios 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas 3 tablespoons lemon juice 1/2 cup olive oil 3 tablespoons fresh dill (finely chopped) salt and pepper to taste
For pistachio hummus: In a food processor, puree all ingredients until smooth consistency. If too thick, adjust with more lemon juice or warm water.
For fava bean salad: 1/4 cup fava beans (cooked and peeled) 1 bulb fennel 10 basil leaves (whole) 3 tablespoons lemon juice 2 tablespoons minced scallion olive oil salt and pepper to taste (sea salt if desired)
For fava bean salad: With a mandoline, shave one bulb of fennel as thin as possible lengthwise. Toss fennel with fava beans, basil, lemon juice, scallions, olive oil, salt and pepper. To Serve: Put about 4 tablespoons of hummus on plates. Arrange swordfish on hummus and top with grilled peaches. Finish with fava bean salad, more olive oil, lemon and sea salt.
* Pistachio Oil: In food processor, add 3/4 cup pistachios (shelled, preferably toasted) and 1 cup of light olive oil. Puree the mixture, until desired consistency is reached. Let it sit overnight or for several hours until the mixture settles. Skim off the oil which is now pistachio infused. ** Pistachio Paste: In a food processor or a high speed blender, add 3/4-cup shelled pistachios. Slowly pour in olive oil and process on high speed until the consistency reaches a thick paste.
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: For grilled scallops: 8 large diver scallops 2 tablespoons pistachio oil* 1 tablespoon lemon salt and pepper to taste For cucumber salad: 2 English cucumbers 1/2 cup crumbled feta 2 tablespoons chopped red onion 1 teaspoon chopped oregano 1 cup olive oil 2 tablespoons lemon juice salt and pepper to taste For pistachio crumble: 1 cup shelled pistachios 1 tablespoon dry oregano 1 teaspoon chili flakes 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (toasted) For roasted strawberries: 1/2 cup strawberries (quartered) 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar 1 tablespoon mint leaves (finely chopped) Instructions: For scallops: Rub scallops with pistachio oil and season with salt and pepper. Put on grill fat side down and sear on one side on high heat (about 4 minutes). When charred, turn scallops and cook on low heat about 1 minute or until desired doneness. For cucumber salad: Toss all ingredients together in mixing bowl. For pistachio crumble: In a food processor, combine all ingredients until a powder is achieved. For roasted strawberries: In a hot sauté pan, add olive oil. Add strawberries. Sauté 1-2 minutes or until somewhat soft.Add vinegar, turn off heat and add mint. * Please see the Swordfish recipe for directions to make Pistachio Oil. To Serve: Dip warm scallops in crumble until well coated on seared side. Bake in hot oven or on hot grill to brown for about 1 minute. Arrange cucumber salad on plate with some additional crumble and crumbled feta. Drizzle with strawberry vinaigrette. Place scallops on salad and redress with fresh lemon and olive oil. Serve with toasted pita or crusty bread and a drizzle of olive oil.
Desert Local News September 3, 2010
5 Fit Facts for Summer Foods Go Nuts with Your Salads –Use nuts, like pistachios, as a protein source on salads instead of meats. Pistachios are full of potassium, vitamin B6 and fiber and don’t pack as many calories as most meats.
Explore the Sea –Try swapping out red meats for seafood. A good amount of seafood – like flounder, cod, haddock, sole, shrimp, scallops, crabs and clams – are exceptionally low in fat and some are loaded with B-vitamins, iron, zinc, selenium and copper.
Add Some Beans –Incorporating beans, such as chickpeas or fava beans, into your meal is a great way to help reduce cholesterol.When combined with nuts, including pistachios, seeds or grains, they form a complete high-fiber vegetable protein.
Eat More of Nature’s Candy –Serve fresh fruit in place of baked goods for dessert. Many fruits, such as strawberries, are just as sweet as sugar, but one serving packs 140 percent of your recommended daily allowance of vitamin C as well as flavinoids, proven to lower bad cholesterol levels.
Make Your Own Trail Mix –Try making your own trail mix for snacks by combining dried fruits and nuts, such as strawberries or peaches with pistachios. Nuts are high in fiber, which help you fully absorb the vitamins and minerals that are rich in fruits.
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An American Classic
Celebrate Grilled Cheese — April is National Grilled Cheese Month!
...with a twist
Americans love grilled cheese sandwiches. In fact, they, eat more than 2 billion of them every year.1 And with many families working with tighter budgets these days, they’re turning to simple and affordable meal items like grilled cheese sandwiches that will keep them satisfied and smiling. April is National Grilled Cheese Month – what better time to celebrate the classic sandwich that’s a value for your family? A grilled cheese sandwich – made with the simple combination of two slices of bread, two slices of KRAFT Singles and a touch of butter – costs less than a single dollar to prepare. Grilled cheese
Cheesy Apple Cinnamon Raisin Grill
sandwiches made with American
Prep Time: 5 min. | Total Time: 9 min. | Makes: 1 serving.
What You Need! 2 slices cinnamon raisin bread 1 KRAFT Singles 1/4 small apple, cut into thin slices 2 tsp. butter or margarine, softened
cheese, like KRAFT Singles, not only help keep costs in check, they also bring smiles to families’ ten people who
Rustic Grilled Cheese
buy sliced
Prep Time: 5 min. | Total Time: 11 min. | Makes: 1 serving.
cheese agree that American cheese makes the best grilled cheese sandwiches.1 America's Favorite Grilled Cheese Sandwich
smiles around
America’s Favorite Grilled Cheese Sandwich
the kitchen table by serving a the sandwich your own twist by dressing it up with ingredients you may already have in your kitchen. Ham and tomatoes are the top ingredients people like to add to the grilled cheese sandwich.2 1
30
NPD Group research
2
Kraft Foods
Subject: # 290202
served “open faced” and becomes popular in cafeterias.
Make It! 1. SPREAD 1 of the bread slices with mustard; top with chicken, tomatoes and Singles. Cover with remaining bread slice. 2. SPREAD outside of sandwich with butter. 3. COOK in skillet on medium heat 3 min. on each side or until golden brown on both sides.
– 2004: GoldenPalace.com, an online
is added to the grilled cheese sandwich. – 1965: KRAFT Singles first appear in grocery stores. casino, paid $28,000 for a halfeaten grilled cheese featuring the image of the Virgin Mary. – 2006: Joey Chestnut won the World Green Chile Grilled Cheese Eating Championship by eating 34.5 grilled cheese sandwiches. – 2009: A record-breaking 5,000 people are expected to “get cheesy” at the Seventh Annual National
Rustic Grilled Cheese
For more recipes and variations on an American favorite, including nutrition information, visit www.KraftSingles.com.
FREE reproduction materials of this editorial page are made available to you in your circulation area through the courtesy of the Kraft.
gaining popularity. – 1940s -1950s: Grilled cheese is
– 1960s: The top piece of bread
What You Need! 2 slices white bread 2 KRAFT Singles 2 tsp. butter or margarine, softened Make It! 1. TOP 1 bread slice with Singles; cover with remaining bread slice. 2. SPREAD outside of sandwich with butter. 3. COOK in skillet on medium heat 3 min. on each side or until golden brown on both sides.
(cheese and white bread) begins
What You Need! 2 slices multi-grain bread 1 tsp. GREY POUPON Savory Honey Mustard 6 slices OSCAR MAYER Deli Fresh Shaved Rotisserie Seasoned Chicken Breast 2 thin tomato slices 1 KRAFT Singles 2 tsp. butter, softened
Prep Time: 5 min. | Total Time: 11 min. | Makes: 1 serving.
toasty grilled cheese – and give
The Grilled Cheese Evolution – 1920: “Modern” grilled cheese
Make It! 1. TOP 1 of the bread slices with Singles and apple slices; cover with remaining bread slice. 2. SPREAD outside of sandwich with butter. 3. COOK in skillet on medium heat 2 min. on each side or until golden brown on both sides.
faces. And, in fact, nearly nine in
Create
Recipes and photos courtesy of Kraft Foods.
Cheesy Apple Cinnamon Raisin Grill
and takes less than 15 minutes
Desert Local News September 3, 2010
Grilled Cheese Invitational, the world’s only grilled cheese cooking competition, held in Los Angeles, California.
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The war against Xenophobia in Yucca Valley By Leslie Andres
EXCLUSIVE- (PART ONE) Fritz Koenig has been at odds with one of his particular neighbors in Yucca Valley for many years. He and his partner, Tom Holman came to the Morongo Basin under the impression that it was an artistic community where they could not have any problems. However, when his neighbors learned of their lifestyle, war nearly erupted and this has led to an escalating battle that resulted in legal action in the court and almost landed an innocent gay man behind bars. Desert Local News speaks to Koenig about his experiences battling for First Amendment and Civil Rights and how he has felt violated by the San Bernardino County court system.
Processionals of religious figures were pointed towards the gay family cabin, complete with burned candle wax, and rosary beads dangling on the cabin side of the fence. The items were at the fence line for months. Koenig felt that these actions were a form of harassment, yet his neighbors denied doing so. Within the next three years, Yucca Valley Sheriff’s Deputies received tons of complaints from both sides of the fence.
Koenig explains that about six months after moving in, he wanted to simply move his driveway closer to the property boundary. The sparks suddenly ignited between himself and his neighbors, which suddenly began a chain reaction that nearly destroyed his life in his otherwise peaceful Yucca Valley home. However, in the beginning, this particular neighbor already knew of Koenig and Holman’s intimate relationship and it was not an issue at first.
The neighbor and his family, whose names are withheld due to fear of retaliation, have also began making false claims that Koenig was a pedophile. Though nothing could be proven in court about those claims, Koenig feels that their accusations against him were due to having nothing more than simple verbal contact between himself and two of their children. Plus, lies about Koenig and Holman walking around outside in nothing but thong underwear have surfaced too. “We don’t even own thongs,” Koenig explained. Also, one incident where both men were lying in a hammock together fully clothed constituted a “lewd act”
As a form of retaliation, the neighbor and his family began to erect a huge Christian cross in the primary view corridor of the Koenig’s.
The children of this family would all of a sudden run in terror whenever they would see Koenig, simply because of what they had been eventually taught at home and in their religious school.
Desert Local News September 3, 2010
by the neighbors. One of the worse aspects was that Koenig claims that the family’s dog has charged at him. He compared this to a similar case in San Francisco where a homophobic couple’s vicious dog attacked an innocent lesbian woman many years ago. The more Koenig would say something, the worse the situation would get, he explained. In August, Koenig faced incarceration at a civil trial started because writings about the case appeared on internet websites. This case was dismissed last week and Koenig was ultimately relieved. “For the first time, I am free of a scheduled trial since October 2008,” he explained. However, he does not feel that his troubles are over just yet. As of right now, he and his partner are staying in an undisclosed location far from the Morongo Basin, in fear for their safety. Countless legal attacks, indefinite restraining orders and many legal complications have stressed Koenig out and all of this has cost him quite a fortune when it comes to hiring attorneys from far away to help him stay free from prison. Stay tuned to Desert Local News and Behind The Lid for more details next week.
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