August 5, 2010
Weekly • ISSUE 30
CooL Staying
“National Night Out” in the Desert ~ Photo by Bruce Montgomery
Palm Springs • Palm Desert • Indian Wells • Rancho Mirage • Indio • La Quinta • Desert Hot Springs • Cathedral City • Morongo • Yucca Valley • 29 Palms • Coachella
News • People • Entertainment • Living • Wellness • Casino & Spa Resorts • US $2.95
Coachella Valley
Do you love to dance? Do you fox trot, swing, salsa or cha cha? If you don’t, that’s okay, but possibly your children will be learning to dance after school this year. Goto Page 8 -9
Contents Red Hot Dancing ‘Making Dreams come true’ Health & Wellness Palm Springs Prop 8 ‘Karate Kidz’ comes to DHS Out on the trail
8-9 3 6-7 2 - 14 16 18 - 19
National Night out
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Pat Meagher for Congress
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Morongo Basin News
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Amazing Pet story
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Just in.. Exclusive Photos from Thermal CA. Traffic Accident causing fire 31 -35
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Desert Local News August 5, 2010
©
Energy, LTD.
Group Of Citizens Including Police Citizens On Patrol Councilmembers Mayor Lazano Family
Desert Hot Springs participated in its 4th annual “National Night Out” at Tedesco Park on Tuesday, August 8, from 5:00 till 8:00 p.m. National Night Out involves over six million people nationwide, as community protection personnel meet with citizens to get to know one another.
Wind Is Our Friend
Desert Local News August 5, 2010
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’Making Dreams Come True’
Operation Princess
Story and photos by Elayna Freiberg The dream looked like a huge ballroom event with volunteers all around, hustling and bustling to get the dresses and shoes together, before the doors swung open to the lucky recipients. Once the doors were open, the dreams of teenage girls on the other side would now be able to attend their homecoming dance, winter formal or junior prom, because of one woman’s vision. Julie A. Goss smiles as she relives the “dream” that she plans on coming full circle with her new nonprofit organization. Since it’s inception two months ago, Goss collected a closet full of beautiful dresses, shoes, handbags and a myriad of costume jewelry. Moreover, she was able to collect this all strictly by word of mouth. Operating only with her sister, Raquel, the drove from Palm Springs to Coachella to pick up what she describes as 4
“treasures” for underprivileged teens. These teens would otherwise not be able to afford to dress up for their special dances at school. Goss’ ultimate dream is to provide hair, makeup and styling services for the teens, to add to the whole experience of making memories for them. As she gathers the dresses, she begins her plans for screening the candidates who will qualify for these “treasures.” Diligently she continues asking friends and family for referrals, sends e-mail blasts and invites on Facebook to reach a broader audience for donations. She is also calling to find corporate sponsorship to help her reach her higher vision. For more about Operation Princess, go to www.PalmSpringsGuides.Com
Desert Local News August 5, 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 August 5, 2010
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Health and Wellness
Oral Contraceptives and Hormone Replacement Therapy May Protect Women Against Brain Aneurysms Article by Allen Lawrence. M.D., www.HolisticGyn.Com For many years women have been wrongfully bombarded with faulty information regarding the use of oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy. Here is an article that finally has something good to say. In a recently published study oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) have been shown to provide benefits in protecting women against the formation and rupture of brain aneurysms causing strokes in women. The findings from this first-of-its-kind study by a neurointerventional expert from Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois were presented at
the Society of Neurointerventional Surgery (SNIS) 7th Annual Meeting. Dr. Michael Chen, neurointerventionalist and assistant professor of neurology, neurosurgery and radiology at Rush University, reported that two largest brain aneurysm trials the International Subarachnoid Aneurysm trial and the International Study of Unruptured Intercranial Aneurysms, found that 70 percent of aneurysms occurred in post-menopausal women with the mean age of 52 at a time of life which clearly coincided with the onset of menopause and a severe drop in the women’s estrogen levels.
Chen told the audience of doctors that “By understanding the potential link between low levels of estrogen and aneurysms, we can focus our areas of study with the hope of providing women who are at risk for brain aneurysms with preventative therapies.” Chen told the doctors that in a study conducted over a two-year period from 2008-2010, researchers at Rush looked at the link between low estrogen levels and aneurysm incidence. The participating women were screened with questions related to their gynecologic history and the use of estrogen modifying medications, age of menstrual onset, age at the time of birth of her first child, use and duration of oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy, and her age at the start of menopause. The two groups had strong similarities across multiple screening factors. The median age of both groups was 53, and when comparing for pertinent criteria, the
Continues on Page 7 6
Desert Local News August 5, 2010
Health and Wellness Continued from Page 6 results were: Body Mass Index was 27.1 for case group and 25.2 for control group. Average age of menstrual onset was 13 years for both groups. The average age for women whose first pregnancy occurred over 30 years of age was 10 percent for the case group (those who had developed brain aneurysms) and 11 percent for the control group, who had not. When use of estrogen modifying agents such as oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy was looked at there suddenly were a significant difference between the two groups. The rate of oral contraceptive usage in the case group (those women with brain aneurysms) was 60 percent compared to 77.6 percent for the control group (no brain aneurysms). The rate of hormone replacement therapy usage was 23.7 percent for the case group and 44.8 percent for the control group. When the median duration of oral contraceptive use was compared, results showed that the average duration was 2.6 years for the case group (with brain aneurysms) and 5.2 years for the control group (no brain aneurysms). The information sug-
gested that women experiencing brain aneurysms were considerably less likely to use either oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy, that when they did use oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy, they used them for considerably shorter periods of time (2.6 versus 5.2 years). “These differences in the usage of estrogen modifying agents qualify as statistically significant and indicate that women with brain aneurysms use oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy less frequently than the general population,” said Chen. “It is reasonable to conclude that the data results support our hypothesis that drops in estrogen that occur
in menstruation and particularly at menopause may explain why cerebral aneurysms are more frequently found in women, particularly at menopause.” Chen concluded, “For neurointerventional practitioners, this study provides another piece of evidence that estrogen stabilization may play a protective role in women who are at risk of aneurysms.” It is valuable to remember that natural, bio-identical hormone replacement is safer and better than synthetic hormones. When you talk with your doctor be sure that he or she understands the benefits of natural, bioidentical hormone therapy.
Desert Local News August 5, 2010
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Red Hot Dancing
Do You Have Your Dancin’ Shoes On? Story by Lisa Robyn Lawrence
Do you love to dance? Do you fox trot, swing, salsa or cha cha? If you don’t, that’s okay, but possibly your children will be learning to dance after school this year. Long-time experienced, professional dancers, Bob and Nancy Horn, are the creators of Red Hot Dancing and are responsible for managing this huge endeavor. The Horns were inspired by a challenge made by District Attorney, Rod Pacheco, when he spoke before a group about the Coachella Valley needing more after school programs to keep children off the street and help make them better citizens. The remark was made in the hopes of stimulating the community to take greater responsibility for their children, getting them off the streets, out of gangs and into much more productive endeavors. The Horn’s heard the message loud and clear and created the Red Hot Dancing after-school program. Sheriff Stanley Sniff has endorsed this program and it is supported by our County
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Supervisor John Benoit and Congresswoman Mary Bono. Children who were getting no physical exercise, other than walking to and from the car, walking up an occasional staircase or running to their class, have started to dance. That’s right dance. Since its inception Red Hot Dancing program has continued to grow with each year. For the past two years more than 1700 students in 15 schools; in 4th, 5th, and 6th grades within the Desert Sands Unified School District have been participating in an after-school enrichment program that provides free dance instruction for a period of 28 weeks. The students are also invited to compete in their grade level and perform one or two dances of their choice in the dance finals held in May of each year. There is no fee charged to the families of these students, as the school districts in the Coachella Valley are filled with many underserved, Title 1 students who are considered to be at risk of mak-
ing poor choices in lifestyle that will impact them the rest of their lives. This September marks the third year that Red Hot Ballroom, Inc., a 501C(3) Corporation, has been offering Red Hot Dancing, an after school enrichment program in basic ballroom dance for elementary and middle school students. The lessons however transcend dance and even have a positive effect in the children’s lives. The program begins with teaching manners on and off of the dance floor and especially how to treat a partner with respect. Children also are being taught teamwork and how to move to music in harmony with a partner. One unique aspect of this program is that it begins with instructing the children ‘s teachers or specially selected community volunteers called “Dance Amigos” how to do specific dance steps. Then those teachers or “Dance Amigos” teach the students.
Continues on Page 9
Desert Local News August 5, 2010
Do you have your dancin’ shoes on? Continued from Page 8 Each school forms a “Dance Club” that all of the students in the 4th, 5th or 6th grades are invited to join. While the goal is to give children a productive outlet for their energies and get them off of the street, the value of the program has been far greater. Teachers and parents almost immediately noticed that the children who were involved in the Red Hot Dancing program had begun to participate more actively in class, do their homework and even get better grades on exams. Parents were also thrilled that their children were getting some exercise and being taught manners. The children participate after school 2 times each week for 28 weeks. They practice at home and at the end of each semester a District wide Dance Competition is held where each student competes against their counterparts at other schools. In the first competition held at Indio High School in 2009 some 750 children participated in the program and 150 went to finals. The second year there were more than 1000 students instructed and 250 went on to compete in the finals. All participants who place are presented with a medallion and the first place dancers are awarded a large trophy that stays at their school until the next year’s finals. The winning couples are also awarded a dance scholarship to local dance studios to continue their training and improve their skills or even learn a different form of dance. Even though the program is not easy and requires a lot of work, the children love it. Each
session is a workout with the children burning as much as 800 to 1,000 calories each session. Many of the overweight children even lose a little weight and all students gain stamina and endurance. At a time when the schools can no longer provide physical fitness programs and classes, Red Hot Dancing is providing a positive outlet for their youthful energy, as well as, an opportunity for productive physical fitness training, etiquette, manners, self control, respect and self esteem. Already well entrenched in Desert Sands Unified School Districts, this next year the program will be offered in select schools within the Palm Springs Unified School District and Coachella Valley Unified School District potentially adding more students for an expected total of over 1,000 additional students this year. Palm Springs Guides supports the Red Hot Dancing Program. Red Hot Dancing relies on partnerships with the three local Unified School Districts, YMCA, Indio Performing Arts Center, grant monies, corporate sponsorship and generous donations from community individuals for the funds necessary to produce this invaluable program. You can become a “Dance Partner” and sponsor one or more children this year for only $100 per student. This program not only enriches and enlivens our children but it benefits our community too. For more information regarding the Red Hot Dancing Program or how to volunteer or contribute go to www.redhotdancing.org . Desert Local News August 5, 2010
Bob and Nancy Horn 9
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Desert Local News August 5, 2010
Loacal Advertisement call 760 • 449 • 8235
Desert Local News August 5, 2010
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Palm Springs Prop. 8
Proposition 8 Ruled Unconstitutional: Palm Springs LGBT Community Celebrates
BY LESLIE ANDREWS EXCLUSIVE- After a long hard decision with both sides providing many arguments, Chief U.S. District Judge Vaughn Walker struck down Proposition 8 in California, ruling it unconstitutional, thus providing a favorable decision for the two gay couples who sued the State over the controversial proposition passed in November 2008. For an interim, gay couples were allowed to marry after the 9th U.S. Circuit Court struck down Proposition 22, passed back in March 2000 which originally banned samesex marriage in California back in May of 2008. As a surprise, voters approved Proposition 8 that November, which reversed the state’s policy. Yet judges in 2009 ruled that the 18,000-plus gay and lesbian couples could still remain married. However, Wednesday’s decision to strike down Proposition 8 does not mean that county courts could right away resume issuing marriage licenses to gay couples just yet. Reports say that Judge Walker will decide on Friday if his order will be suspended as proponents of the same-sex marriage ban will pursue an appeal in a higher court. Judge Walker stated, “Indeed, the evidence shows Proposition 8 does nothing more than enshrine in the California Constitution the notion that oppositesex couples are superior to same-sex couples.” 12
Meanwhile, in Palm Springs, a large number of gay couples and supporters of their causes appeared at the Riverside County Courthouse near the Palm Springs Airport on Wednesday evening to celebrate Judge Walker ruling in their favor. A large number of people attended, as were openly gay politicians from Cathedral City and Palm Springs, including Ginny Foat, Greg Pettis and Paul Marchand to speak on this landmark ruling. “I’m pleased with Judge Walker’s decision, stating that LGBT people are first class citizens of the commonwealth,” said Marchand. Steve Clark, from the Riverside County Socialist Party, stated, “We are supportive of the rights of all minorities. The judge has declared that Proposition 8 is a violation of the 14th amendment.” George Zander from Equality California added, “This is a major day for us. It’s also important that people will realize that this fight is far from over.” He also explained that in 2012, there may be a pro-gay marriage proposition on the ballot, which would help reinstate same-sex marriage. Vanessa Wilcox, a Palm Springs High School student from the Gay-Straight Alliance, spoke to the crowds. “Marriage equality is a fight. Our fight must continue,” she said. “So I say, let it go to the Supreme
Continues on Page 14 Desert Local News August 5, 2010
Palm Springs Entertainment
Desert Local News August 5, 2010
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Palm Springs Prop. 8
Palm Springs LGBT Community Celebrates Continued from Page 12 Court. We support justice and the constitution and we will win again. Continue to fight for your family, friends and your future.” However, as Wilcox was speaking, she was rudely interrupted by a Melissa and Anna Hatcher, a mother and daughter from Desert Hot Springs who came to protest at the rally, chanting anti-gay marriage remarks loudly and stealing media attention away from the crowds. “Where is our rights?” asked Melissa as she sparked an uproar. “There is no democracy here.” As she was asked to leave, she kept on shouting back, “This is a free country!” Police and pro14
testers were strongly present, preventing chaos from happening. After all three local television stations caught the confrontation on camera, the duo left within ten minutes. Marchand stated that that there is still quite a legal road ahead of Wednesday’s ruling, which means that the reinstatement of gay marriage in California could happen if the Judge does not impose a stay, depending on whether or not proponents of Proposition 8 would appeal. The next step will be the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals and then the Federal Supreme Court, which could be a battle lasting for a few years following. Desert Local News August 5, 2010
Desert Local News August 5, 2010
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t n e m a n r u to te a r a k s d i k n o y t i c a p S e th to s e ‘Karate kidz’ com Desert Hot Springs
ng, pete in sparri ready to com g e) in dl tt id ge s (m nt Neveu Stude (left) G.M. Ray . Jr n vi er S l Danie Jr (right) Angel Herrera
By Julio Arana Jr. Desert Hot Springs The 3rd annual SpectrumXC LIVE championship karate 4 KIDZ mini karate tournament will run on Saturday October 9TH at Arana world champion karate dojo, 13913 Caliente drive in the Spa city of California, beautiful Desert Hot Springs. Fights will begin at 12 p.m.. sharp featuring local karate kid’s boys/girls from ages 4 through 17 years
towns of Yucca Valley, Joshua Tree and Twentynine Palms plus including the south of the border town of Mexicali vying for three championship belts for grand champion in the following categories (pee wee championship title belt is sponsored by $5.00 dollar pizza place,
15-17 1st place winners. Julio Arana Jr a 5th degree black belt and former world karate champion from 1998-2004 stated that this tournament is a free admission event so children also families can see and get exposed into the martial arts world and
THIS EVENT IS A FREE ADMISSION EVENT with prize raffle and lots of family fun, For more information call Arana world champion karate at 760 673-2701 or via internet myspace.com/aranaworldchampionkarate
old from different martial art’s studios/ academies around the Coachella Valley, including Desert Hot Springs own karate kids/youths, lso from the Imperial County, Los Angeles, Morongo basin
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odriquez udent Isaiha R st ith w eu ev . Ray N Julio Arana Jr Grandmaster d and Shihan ar aw s hi ith w
kids championship title belt is presented by Desert Hot Springs UPS STORE, Youth championship title belt presented by Smoothies & Movies) plus $50.00 cold hard crisp cash for grand champion
Desert Local News August 5, 2010
join a martial arts discipline and school in neighboring Coachella Valley cities, plus he said lot’s of children were kicking and chopping when the karate kid movie premier,
so this is their only chance to see real action packed martial arts sparring and see that martial arts is not just a negative sport but a sport of true unity and discipline.
Ziggy Marley Headlining
Desert Local News August 5, 2010
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Palm Springs - Out on the trail? Watch your step!
The Western Diamondback Rattlesnake. The Crotalus Atrox.
Story and photos by Jace Edwards This is a dangerous, yet beautiful snake, is known to get more than 7 feet long. It’s distinguished diamond pattern and unmistakable rattle contribute to the mystique that surrounds the most aggressive of the venomous snakes in the United States. With hundreds of bites attributed each year, the Diamondback count is consistently higher than any other in its class. This snake will stand its ground when threatened and has no problem attacking a human. Its venom will cause severe tissue damage, and any wound caused by a Western Diamondback Rattlesnake should be treated immediately. My encounter happened one morning just after 9 a.m. It was on the incline of the curvy trail, I rounded a corner. There, basking in the sun, was more than 5 feet of Western Diamondback rattlesnake. Had I not been watching my footing, at the speed I was going, I would have stepped squarely on this deadly predator. The trail was flanked on each side by a new growth of grass. The recent rains made the grass and desert sage sprout and created a tranquil sea of waving green, a perfect setting for small animals to hide. Also, a perfect place for predators to lie in wait. As I rounded that corner of the dusty trail, I came well within striking distance from a now alarmed, venomous creature. Its rattle clicked away, giving 18
me warning to its presence. Where I encountered the venomous desert dweller was in the middle of an Scurve, so just as I, coming up, had a blind corner into this situation. Coming down the opposite direction, one would be just as unable to see. I watched as the snake slowly made its way across the path. As it did, I tried to examine its markings. The black rings were just below the rattle. The brownish scales blended with the desert floor. I watched as it coiled into an attack position. Anything within reach was fair game, and it had already shown its fangs once. The place it had chosen as its defensive perch was very dangerous to any passerby. This should be a grave reminder to anyone venturing into the hills at this time: Watch For snakes.
What to do in case of snakebite: 1. Stay calm, get safely away from the snake. 2. Immobilize/raise wound above heart. Try not to move. 3. Treat for shock/preserve body heat. 4. Prep site for swelling (remove rings if need, etc.) 5. Apply a light constricting band about 2� above and Desert Local News August 5, 2010
below the wound. Soft wide cloth or handkerchief is recommended. NOTE: The purpose of constricting bands is to restrict lymphatic flow, not blood, so they should not be too tight. Check pulses below the bands and readjust them as necessary when they tighten due to swelling. NEVER place the bands on either side of a joint (above and below the knee or elbow). 6. If you can, wash the wound with soap and water.
DO NOT antagonize or confront a Western Diamondback Rattler.
Hiking Safety Tips: •
•
•
7. Get to Medical Care for Antivenin. 8. If the victim has to walk out, sit calmly for 20-30 minutes to let the venom localize at the site, proceed calmly to the nearest source of help and try to avoid unnecessary exertion that will stimulate circulation. DO NOT cut the bite. Additional tissue damage may occur increasing diffusion of toxins throughout the body. DO NOT apply a tourniquet. It may damage the limb. DO NOT try to suck out venom by mouth. DO NOT apply cold and/or ice packs. Desert Local News August 5, 2010
•
•
• •
Hike with a friend, or tell a friend where you will be hiking and when you expect to return. Carry as much water as you can. As a rule of thumb, you need at least one liter of water per hour of hiking. When half the water is gone, turn around and head back. Protect yourself from the sun. Dress in layers. Wear a hat, sunglasses, protective clothing and sturdy footwear. Use sun screen. Bring warm layers and a waterproof shell on longer hikes — the weather can change quickly. Know your trail. Carry a map and pay attention to the terrain so you can find your way back. Beware of rattlesnakes. Watch where you put your hands and feet, especially in warm weather when snakes are active. Keep children near you. Stay on the trail. Crosscountry travel and camping in Peninsular bighorn sheep habitat is prohibited from Jan. 1 through Sept. 30.
For more about Jace Edwards and hiking, go to www. PalmSpringsGuides.Com 19
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Desert Hot Springs
“National Night Out” Photos and story by Bruce Montgomery Desert Hot Springs participated in its 4th annual “National Night Out” at Tedesco Park on Tuesday, August 8, from 5:00 till 8:00 p.m. National Night Out involves over six million people nationwide, as community protection personnel meet with citizens to get to know one another. Various venues have been used in Desert Hot Springs, but having a central location at Tedesco Park involved the whole community, and was well attended.
Councilmember Scott Matas
The ‘Chiefs’ Pat Williams & Dean Veik Desert Local News August 5, 2010
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Real Estate • Home Improvements
Time running out to earn tax credits on new garage doors BY STAFF
The tax credit eligibility for qualified garage doors will expire on Dec. 31. Now is your last chance to save 30 percent off the price of an energy-saving curb-appeal-inspiring garage door, courtesy of the U.S. government. The savings come from a federal income tax credit, which is more valuable than an equivalent tax deduction, because a tax credit reduces your tax dollar-for-dollar, while a deduction only decreases the amount of income that is taxed. Through the end of this year, the U.S. government is offering up to a $1,500 tax credit for homeowners who buy and install qualifying insulated garage doors. Full details can be found at GarageWowNow.com, a
non-commercial home improvement resource dedicated to garage doors and garage door openers.
Getting your share of the tax credit A taxpayer may claim a maximum of 30 percent of qualifying home improvement products, and a maximum of $1,500 for qualifying purchases in 2009 and 2010. For example, if you replace two garage doors with two new qualifying insulated doors that cost $1,000 each, you may claim a tax credit of $300 per door, or a total of $600, provided you have not exceeded the $1,500 total over the two years of the tax credit period. Courtesy ARA
Boosting home energy efficiency When it comes to making your home more energy efficient, you may have to spend a little to save a lot. And, like most good investments, energy-efficient home improvements may require you to be in it for the long haul in order to see the maximum return on your investment.
Debbie McGowan
760-774-3557
DebbMcGowan@aol.com
Because skylights admit abundant natural light, they can help lower your home’s dependence on artificial light sources meaning you’ll use less electricity to light your home. You will find tax credits and product rebates in place for certain skylights and accessories. Plus, with modern skylights like the Velux No Leak Skylight carrying not only product but also installation warranties you’re no more prone to experience leaks than with any other properly installed quality window in your home. When it comes to cost savings, comparisons pale between traditional and solar water heating systems. The federal tax credit program makes it possible to recoup up to 30 percent of the installed cost of a solar water heating system. Visit www.veluxusa.com to learn more. Courtesy ARA
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Desert Local News August 5, 2010
Desert Hot Springs Senior Center Event Calendar August 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 Monday 8:00a Wii 10:30a Arthritis Exercise $2.00 members $3.00 nonmembers 11:30a Lunch $3.00 donation appreciated 12:00p August 16th Help You Hear Presentation Carl May Building Tuesday No Hidden Harvest for the month of August 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 12:00p – 4:00p August 10th Desert Hot Springs Health Fair 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 12:00p August 4th Comfort Keepers Presentation 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 3:00p-5:00p Desert Hot Springs Library Reading Program for school age children Friday 8:00a Wii 10:30a Arthritis Exercise $2.00 members $3.00 nonmembers 11:30a Lunch $3.00 donation appreciated 5:30p-7:00p Ballroom Dancing
Desert Local News August 5, 2010
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69730 Highway 111 Rancho Mirage, CA 92270-2874 (760) 324-3800
Desert Local News August 5, 2010
Desert Hot Springs Senior Center
Desert Local News August 5, 2010
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The Morongo BasinNews • Yucca Valley • 29 Palms
Pat Meagher:
On A Mission To Defeat Jerry Lewis In Congress
BY LESLIE ANDREWS JOSHUA TREE, CAFor nearly two hours, 41st Congressional District candidate Pat Meagher met with Morongo Basin residents at Copper Mountain College in Joshua Tree to answer questions and develop a strategy to win people’s votes this coming November. On Sunday, the Hi-Desert Democratic Club members met with Meagher to hear him discuss his ideas if he gets elected, ranging from receiving stimulus dollars to the current War in Iraq and in Afghanistan. “If I want to be your representative, I want to be able to listen to you,” he said as he addressed the crowds in the beginning. He criticized British Petroleum’s handling of the Gulf of Mexico’s oil spill, saying that they would cause generations of job losses. “They should pay for it. We should not pay one dime out of our tax dollars for it, as we did not receive one dime of their profits,” he noted.
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When it comes to the sacrifices the military’s armed forces are making for freedom, Meagher thanked everyone of them. “We do owe them something and we have to keep their benefits going. We want to take care of them for the rest of their lives,” he explained. Meagher made clear that the current congressman Jerry Lewis (R-41, Redlands) has failed the people and has refused government stimulus money that could have provided jobs. Also, he believed that the country’s borders need to be secured before they could do something with the immigration reform. “We don’t know who they are and what their intent is. Whose flag are you going to salute? Whose culture are you going to adapt to?” he asked. “If they intend to be American citizens, there’s going to be a lot of hoops they must go through. Let’s do it right. Let’s set up a pathway towards citizenship.” Plus, he feels that splitting families up is inhumane over the parent’s immigration status. He adds, “Let’s be realistic. We’re not going to ship 12 million peo-
Desert Local News August 5, 2010
ple out of this country.” Social Security and Medicare must remain governmental programs, as Meagher stated. He doesn’t believe that these programs must be privatized, as many Republicans want to do eventually. Part of Meagher’s mission is to start knocking on doors during his campaign, getting his name to be known. Since the 41st District stretches as far northeast as Needles and further north of Barstow, he will be going to all regions to give town hall meetings and talk to voters face to face. He will not only be reaching out to Democratic voters but also to third-party registrants whose trust he is trying to win. Meagher resides in Forest Falls, California with his wife, Trish. He has nine children ranging in age from nine to thirty-one. Seven of them are adopted. He was once the principal of Fontana High School and is active with the Redlands United Church of Christ.
The Morongo Basin SUNNYVALE GARDEN SUITES HOTEL Phone: 760.361.3939 Toll Free: 877-411-3939 Fax: 760.367.1839 http://www.sunnyvalesuites.com
Suspect on the loose after assault of a woman in Twentynine Palms
73843 Sunnyvale Drive,Twentynine Palms, CA 92277 BY VICKI LAWSON TWENTYNINE PALMS, CAShortly after 3:00 p.m. on Monday, deputies from the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department responded to 73980 Highway 62, Del Gagnon Realty/Property Management, for a report of an assault that had just occurred. Upon the deputies arrival, they determined that two employees had been robbed at gunpoint. The suspect then shot the female employee and assaulted the male employee. The suspect then fled on foot from the business. Both employees were taken to Desert Regional Medical Center in Palm Springs for treatment of their injuries. Their injuries are not considered life threatening and both are expected to recover.
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The suspect is described as being as a black male adult, about 6’0 tall and weighing between 250 – 275 lbs. He was wearing a long sleeved grey thermal shirt and black pants. He had a bandana covering his face and the weapon is a silver revolver with a brown grip. This suspect is considered Armed and Dangerous. Anyone with any information regarding this shooting and robbery or knows the identity and /or location of this suspect is encouraged to call the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, Morongo Basin Station at (760)366-4175. Those wishing to remain anonymous can leave information on the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME or www.wetip.com.
Desert Local News August 5, 2010
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Palm Springs
Police Assist With Combative Medical Patient In Palm Springs BY VICKI LAWSON PALM SPRINGS, CAA 52-year-old Palm Springs man may be facing possible charges for struggling with medical personnel as he was needing attention on Monday. At approximately 2:25 PM, American Medical Response and Palm Springs Fire Department personnel were dispatched to the Ace Hotel, located at 701 East Palm Canyon Drive, regarding a report of a severe-
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ly dehydrated male at that location. A Palm Springs police officer driving by the location noticed that medical personnel were struggling with a male and stopped to assist. Officers were able to detain the combative man, who lost consciousness at the scene. He was immediately transported to the Desert Regional Medical Center, where he is being treated for dehydration. It is believed that he may also
Desert Local News August 5, 2010
have been under the influence of a controlled substance and the investigation into the details of the incident remains ongoing. Medical personnel were also being treated for non-life threatening injuries sustained during the altercation. The man involved in the struggle remains under medical care. The case will be submitted to the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office for review of charges.
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288-7398
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12106-APalm Drive, Desert Hot Springs, CA (Next to Thai Palm Restaurant)
Simple steps to get ‘gorgeously green’ on a budget Going “green” is great at any time of the year. No matter the season, there are always “green” steps that can be introduced into everyday family routines that can lessen our negative effects on the environment and our health while helping us to save money at the same time. “For both financial and environmental reasons, life is all about making do with what we have,” says Sophie Uliano, whose latest book, “Do it Gorgeously,” was designed to help even the most DIY-challenged women reduce, reuse, recycle and repair nearly everything. “You’d be surprised how many common household items can help us reduce our environmental impact, improve our quality of life and even our
health.” * Post messages around your home to help you and your family remember the “must-do’s” for going green. “It is so easy to forget some of the small everyday tasks that really make a difference on the environment. To keep my family’s green routine intact, I leave eco-smart messages around my house reminding everyone to turn off the lights or bring reusable bags to the grocery store,” says Uliano. “I’ve founds a great way to multitask by using Post-it Desert Local News August 5, 2010
Greener Notes that are created with 100 percent recycled paper and a new plant-based adhesive. The new notes allow me to cross off my “to-dos” while minimizing my impact on the environment.” Courtesy of ARA
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Desert Local News August 5, 2010
Amazing Pet Stories
Noah is truly, truly a God-send. By Bob and Georganne Lenham of Wild Rose Rescue Ranch in Texas These little bunnies, about 6 days old, were attacked by a dog and orphaned. Two out of the litter of five did not survive, and these three were not doing very well. Noah is a non-releasable, one-legged homing pigeon/rock dove that is in the rehab centre. Noah kept going over to the bunny cage and looking in -- even sleeping in front of the door to the cage. Then, suddenly, there were only two bunnies in the cage. But when Noah moved a bit from the front of the cage to everyone’s surprise...there was the tiny bunny...under Noah’s wing... sound asleep! That little bunny rabbit had crawled through the cage, preferring a featherbed, no doubt to snuggling up with its littermates! Now, they are all together and the bunnies are doing GREAT. When the bunnies scoot underneath Noah’s feathers, he carefully extends his wings out to surround them and then they
snuggle. When one of them moves and they start sticking out here and there, he gently pushes them back under him with his beak! It is beautiful and amazing to see...
Update on Noah the pigeon: We are Bob and Georganne Lenham of Wild Rose Rescue Ranch in Texas , home of Noah the Pigeon. After finding many posts online featuring Noah and the bunnies and reading about the many lives he has touched (his story has been forwarded around the world) we thought we’d post a follow-up and a few new photos. We knew there was something special about Noah the moment we saw him. Although the bunnies seem to be his favorite, Noah helps out with many rescue babies here at the Wild Rose Rescue Ranch...
Photo © Bob Lenham Now, Noah helps out with many rescue babies here at the ranch...
Desert Local News August 5, 2010
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Exclusive Pho
Reporting live from Thermal, CA. Renee
Traffic Accident Cau The CAL/FIRE incident report is simple. A traffic collision causing a fire was reported on July 29, 2010 at 10:12hrs at the intersection of 60th & Tyler in Thermal CA. When the fire department arrived it was estimated that ½ acre of vegetation and one vehicle was on fire. The fire was in heavy vegetation causing spot fires. Access to the fire was hampered by power lines that were down. The power company was able to deenergize the lines and fire suppression was able to continue.
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Desert Local News August 5, 2010
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Desert Local News August 5, 2010
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Traffic Accident Caus
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Desert Local News August 5, 2010
sing Fire
Exclusive Photos by Renee’ Vargas
Desert Local News August 5, 2010
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