Desert Star Weekly June 12, 2020 issue!

Page 1

Your adjudicated newspaper for Riverside County

desert

STAR W E E K L Y

PRESORTED STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID Desert Hot Springs, CA

Fathers Day gift ideas on page 8

PERMIT NO 00005

Friday, June 12, 2020 Vol. 24 No. 46

‘Matter of Facts’ Some advocates contend LGBTQ equality cannot be achieved without fully embracing anti-racism. (MathiasWasik/Flickr)

LGBTQ Pride Month: Racial Justice Integral to Equality for All By Desert Star Staff JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- As they reflect on their own fight for equal rights, members of Missouri’s LGBTQ community are standing with those fighting for racial justice.

June is Pride Month, and Stephen Eisele executive director of the advocacy group PROMO, says that equality for LGBTQ people cannot be achieved without fully embracing anti-racism.

By Desert Star Staff The latest data from the Treasury Department shows that the US gross national debt has exceeded $26 trillion for the first time, as the nation grapples with economic relief from the Covid-19 pandemic. National debt is up from $23.5 trillion in March, with an increase of $1 trillion since May 5. According to CBS News, citing data from the Treasury, public debt has grown by $6 trillion since President Donald Trump took office in 2017. “The Treasury Department notes that the growth in public debt was caused by the allocation of funds for the COVID-19 pandemic counteraction program and

the pandemic-related tax deferral,” CBS reported. The US government has allocated trillions of dollars in coronavirus relief since the start of the pandemic. The socalled CARES Act (Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security) was adopted in March and earmarked $2 trillion, while the $3 trillion HEROES Act (Health and Economic Recovery Omnibus Emergency Solutions) was passed by the House of Representatives in May. According to the Treasury’s monthly report, the federal government budget deficit for the first eight months of has reached $1.88 trillion – the current fiscal year (which already higher than any full started on 1 October 2019) fiscal year deficit in US history.

He notes Pride Month in June was born out of the 1969 Stonewall riots in New York, protests against the police harassment and discrimination of LGBTQ individuals. “It’s really incumbent upon

all of us within the LGBTQ community to stand up for any community that has been marginalized,” Eisele stresses. “And certainly we know what that looks like for our community and we need

to be standing in solidarity and making it clear that we are all in this together.” Eisele says the movement is working toward becoming more diverse, equitable and inclusive, with the understanding Continues on Page 2

US national debt hits $26 TRILLION, soaring by $1 trillion just in one month

The 2020 eight-month deficit more than doubled the $738.6 billion deficit

for the same period in the 2019 fiscal year.


Conservationists Ask Utah to Spare Endangered Mexican Gray Wolf By Desert Star Staff LOGAN, Utah -- Utah officials have placed a trap-and-destroy order on an endangered Mexican gray wolf believed to have killed livestock in the state, but conservation groups are calling on state wildlife officials to humanely capture the rare predator and release it into the wild. Mexican gray wolves were brought back from nearextinction by the Endangered Species Act. A calf was found dead around June 1 on a ranch in northeast Utah, a region where Mexican gray wolves are not on the endangered list. Biologist Michael Robinson, senior conservation advocate for the Center For Biological Diversity, said the animal still should be protected by federal law. “Biologically, under the standards of the Endangered Species Act, these are still endangered animals, and it’s intuitively obvious because there’s only one of them that’s

on the run. It doesn’t even have a family in that area,” he said. “So, they’re very much in peril, very much qualify under the Endangered Species Act.” As of Tuesday, said Leann Hunting with the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food, the wolf had not been seen or captured, and state officers were no longer actively searching for it. However, the wolf still could be trapped or killed by private citizens, since it is designated as a nuisance. Robinson said government agencies hunted wolves into extinction in most western states, including Utah, during the 20th century, to protect ranchers’ herds from predation. He said that changed when the Endangered Species Act was signed in 1973. “The Endangered Species Act led to reintroduction of wolves into Yellowstone National Park and central Idaho in 1995,” he said, “and the reintroduction of Mexican gray wolves from the last few surviving animals, their

The rare Mexican gray wolf is protected in all states by the Endangered Species Act, except in parts of northeastern Utah, where it has been delisted. (gnagel/AdobeStock) descendants, in 1998.” He said conservationists and biologists have worked since the late 1970s to restore the species to its historical habitats. The program began with fewer than a dozen animals, and now there are at least 163 Mexican grays in the wild.

“There’s been a lot that’s gone into trying to save the Mexican wolf from extinction,” he said, “and unfortunately, in some respects, things are going the wrong direction.” Despite their federal recognition as endangered, in 2011, the Utah congressional delegation attached a

rider to the federal budget that decertified Mexican grays in a small part of the state. Robinson said challenges to that regulation still are being litigated. A Mexican gray wolf census is online at wildearthguardians.

Former Seattle Police Chief Urges ‘Radical’ Changes to Policing

Norm Stamper was Seattle police chief during the 1999 crackdown on WTO protesters. He calls it a painful learning experience. (Seattle Municipal Archives/Flickr) By Desert Star Staff SEATTLE -- A former Seattle police chief says American policing needs sweeping change. Norm Stamper was

head of the Seattle Police Department from 1994 to 2000, including when police cracked down on World Trade Organization protesters in 1999. Stamper says his

officers’ actions contributed to conflict between police and demonstrators and calls it a painful learning experience. Two decades on, Stamper says he’s appalled at the

video of George Floyd’s death in Minneapolis and is calling for major policing reform. “But reforming the existing arrangement is really not the answer,” he stresses. “I think the answer is fundamentally more radical than that -- and many within the American protest movement are making that argument.” Since leaving the Seattle Police Department, Stamper has authored two books, including “To Protect and Serve: How to Fix America’s Police.” He’s also on the advisory board for the Law Enforcement Action Partnership. Stamper says he opposes defunding police departments, as some activists urge. But he says departments should share their budgets with the public so community members are directly involved in policing decisions. “Should the community be involved in policy making and program development and

crisis management and the education and training and, indeed, in the selection of police officers in the first place?” he raises. “For me, the answer to those questions is yes.” Stamper says citizen boards also should be involved in personnel investigations and oversight of policies and practices. He says the increased transparency would provide greater trust with the public. Stamper says it’s important for police and community members to understand each other. For officers, that includes accepting that many black Americans don’t feel safe around law enforcement. “In general, police enjoy a pretty solid relationship with white, middle class Americans,” he states. “The same cannot be said for young people, poor people and people of color. We’ve always had our work cut out for us -- never more so than at this moment in history.”

Oregon Civil Rights Advocate: U.S. Democracy in ‘Precarious Moment’ By Desert Star Staff PORTLAND, Ore. -- A civil rights advocate in Oregon warns the country is on a dangerous path toward authoritarianism and away from inclusive democracy. Eric Ward is executive director of the Western States Center, a democracy advocacy group. He says authoritarianism is on the rise around the world and the United States needs to acknowledge it is part of that trend.

2

DesertSTAR

“We need to first recognize the precarious moment that American democracy finds itself in,” he states. “We need to honor the grief and anger that many in the African-American community are experiencing because of disproportionate amount of violence at the hands of law enforcement.” Ward has laid out 21 points he maintains people who are focused on democracy should keep in mind as protests over police brutality

continue. Those include calls to hold local governments accountable, lifting up the voices of peacemakers and raising the alarm about the activation of military units. Ward says leaders need to do more to promote an inclusive democracy, which includes protecting a diverse array of people. He says it’s especially important to protect the people who are creating this country’s wealth, but often don’t share in its abundance. June 12, 2020

“I don’t care if that’s a 72-year-old white male veteran in eastern Oregon who is facing job discrimination because he is older and a veteran, or whether we’re talking about a 16-year-old native girl who is trans on the streets of Portland, who is also facing job discrimination,” he stresses. Ward notes the system we operate under was created hundreds of years ago and no one alive today is responsible for it.

“But we are responsible in ensuring that we create new systems of equity and opportunity for all of us,” he states. Ward also encourages media outlets to take down their paywalls so that people have access to real-time, fact-checked information and is calling on philanthropies to double grant-making for the next three years to promote equity.

www.desertstarweekly.com


5 Home Remodeling Tips from the Pros By Desert Star Staff With the extra time many Americans have spent at home over the past few months, there have been plenty of opportunities to think about how that living space could be improved. While this may not be the ideal time to tackle a full gut and renovate project, it may still be possible to do some smaller scale remodeling projects that update and improve your home. For example, simple cosmetic repairs like painting and replacing vanities can make a noticeable difference with minimal work or investment. Or if you’re hesitant about bringing contractors into the house, outdoor projects like replacing fencing, adding

desert

STAR W E E K L Y

www.desertstarweekly.com

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF & MANAGING EDITOR Max Liebermann

paver stones or constructing outdoor living spaces may be a benefit for your family. Before you take on a project, consider these tips from Robi Kirsic, MCKBR, UDCP, chairman of the board of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry and co-CEO of TimeLine Renovation & Design.

Define the Purpose The first consideration whether you’re making changes for yourself or for future resale is the purpose of your project. This determines everything from the budget to the materials you select. Remember projects in the kitchen and bathroom typically bring the greatest return on investment. It’s also a good idea to plan how you’ll use the renovated area. When possible, incorporate elements of universal design that don’t change how the space looks but will change how it works. For example, in the bathroom, install a curbless shower, taller toilet and block in walls to allow future installation of grab bars. Stick to a Budget Another early decision is your budget. It’s fruitless

to spend time looking at materials and making design decisions based on products that exceed your budget or, conversely, fall below the quality level you prefer. Having a professional involved can help keep you from overspending and identify areas you may want to splurge or pull back. Select a Remodeler Friends and family can be great resources when it comes to choosing a remodeling contractor since they’re likely to give detailed and candid opinions about their experiences. When you

__________________________ OFFICE MANAGER Mindy Salas ART DIRECTOR Dina Rivera CONTRIBUTORS Beverly Cohn, Janice Gough, Jack Lyons, Kelly G. Richardson, Pamela Price, Pat Krause, Risa D’Angeles, Robert Kinsler, Theda Kleinhans Reichman PHOTOGRAPHERS Pat Krause ADVERTISING ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVES Please Call 760-671-6604

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Arlette Capel

Desert Star Weekly 13279 Palm Drive Suite 4 & 5, Desert Hot Springs, CA 92240 760-671-6604 All advertising in the Desert Star Weekly newspaper subject to current rate card. The newspaper reserves the right not to accept an advertiser’s order. The entire contents of the Desert Star Weekly newspaper © 2013. All rights reserved.

www.desertstarweekly.com

‘Matter of Facts’

Continued from Page 1

that LGBTQ individuals are not one-dimensional. “As human beings, we’re multifaceted and bring to that multiple identities, whether you’re LGBTQ first, whether you identify as trans first, whether you identify as black first,” he states. “And I think Pride (Month) is a prime opportunity to celebrate and uplift voices that have traditionally been left behind.” Members and leaders of civil rights and equality organizations, including PROMO, have signed a pledge to oppose racism and white supremacy and to take action in supporting the #BlackLivesMatter movement. The COVID-19 pandemic has hampered traditional Pride Month activities, with many parades and festivals canceled

or delayed. However, Eisele notes it’s not a lost opportunity. “It’s often a time for us to really celebrate community

begin interviewing companies yourself, verify they’re licensed and insured, and ask what they offer above those minimum requirements. Are they certified or accredited? Do they specialize in the type of work you’re considering? Also be sure to request and check references and search online for reviews.

project virtually since online catalogs typically show a variety of colors and finishes along with prices. For items you need to see or feel to choose, like flooring, request samples to test in your home. To make your virtual meetings most productive, prepare by providing a detailed scope of work and be ready to provide measurements and show the Conduct Virtual Meetings space cleared of clutter. While some projects may require an in-person Keep it Safe assessment, many planning For some families, sticking sessions can be conducted to outdoor projects may be virtually. You can even shop more comfortable in the short products to be used in your term. For those who are ready to bring contractors inside, there are numerous steps you can take to create a safer working environment. Examples include asking everyone involved to wear face masks and gloves and using plastic at doorways to keep the work area separate from the living area. Regular disinfecting and a thorough cleaning at the end of the project are also important preventive steps. Find more remodeling resources, including certified contractors in your community, at RemodelingDoneRight. com. Family Features

together and, you know, it’s forcing us in a lot of ways to be creative about how we can make space

Best Quality! Best Price! Guaranteed!

RELIABLE ROOFING ED VOT #1 IN Y LIT QUA

by Todd Gregory Young

• Shingles • Torch Down • Tile Roofs

LOW DESERT

together online and reach out to the various different audiences that are a part of our community,” he states.

NO BULL!...

Just 1st Class Roofing! Commercial • Residential • Mobile Homes

ALL TYPES • NEW ROOFS RE-ROOFS • REPAIRS

• Flat Roofs • Urethane Foam • Sno Coats • Leaks/Repairs • Waterproofing

HI DESERT

568-1673 365-0072 SINCE 1987

June 12, 2020

Bonded • Insured • Lic# 764608

reliableroofingbytgy.com

DesertSTAR

3


US Department of Justice demands UK hands over Prince Andrew

By Desert Star Staff Britain’s Prince Andrew has reportedly been summoned by the US Justice Department to answer questions about his relationship with deceased pedophile Jeffrey Epstein. The pair were friends for over a decade. The Southern District

Court of New York has asked Prince Andrew to testify in the ongoing criminal investigation into Epstein’s alleged accomplices via a Mutual Legal Assistance request filed with the UK Home Office, ABC News reported on Sunday. According to the Sun, which first broke the story, the request was

formally lodged last month. Prince Andrew could be forced to provide testimony under oath in a UK court if the Home Office approves the US court’s request. Should he refuse to either give a signed statement or provide evidence under oath, US prosecutors could issue a summons that would compel him to answer

questions in person. The royal has categorically denied any wrongdoing with his friendship with the jet-setting sex offender, who supposedly committed suicide in prison last year while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. As recently as January, head prosecutor for the Epstein case Geoffrey Berman had expressed frustration with the Prince’s failure to assist in the ongoing probe of Epstein’s criminal associates, noting: “Prince Andrew has provided zero cooperation.� The royal had pledged during a BBC Newsnight interview in November that he would help with the US investigation if his “legal advice was to do so.� Shortly after that TV appearance, branded disastrous and “cringe-worthy� by many, he was demoted within the royal family, stepping back from public life. While Prince Andrew has denied witnessing anything illegal while palling around with Epstein, accuser Virginia Roberts Giuffre

had claimed they had sex three times when she was 17. A photo of Giuffre with the Prince has been widely circulated. Andrew claims to have met Epstein in 1999, having been introduced by socialite and alleged Epstein madam Ghislaine Maxwell – who is still at large despite supposedly being wanted for questioning by the FBI. The Home Office has refused to confirm or deny the existence of the request, while the royal family has not commented. Five Epstein accusers are reportedly eager to give evidence regarding the Prince in US courts, and pre-trial subpoenas could be served regarding those cases should he enter the US. While the criminal case against Epstein closed with his death, his victims have ongoing civil litigation against his estate. However, because of a last-minute change he made to his will, they will have years of legal wrangling ahead of them if they hope to get any sort of payout.

Upgrade Your Home, Downgrade Energy Usage

T

FAMILY FEATURES

he best home upgrades not only make spaces more livable and energy-efficient but are also cost-effective. Making energy-efficient improvements is a savvy way to save money on utility bills, curb energy usage and add to the house’s value. Consider a variety of home improvement projects, both big and small, that can reduce the financial burden of maintaining your home throughout the year and improve energy efficiency. Add Insulation A cost-effective way to save on heating and cooling bills is adding a layer of insulation in the attic where heat loss is typically greatest due to hot air rising. While many newer homes are adequately insulated, those that are several decades old (or older) may benefit from an upgrade in not only the attic but other common problem areas where air can escape such as basements, crawl spaces, fireplaces and ductwork. Seal Doors and Windows Windows and doors are common culprits for energy loss. While a complete replacement of doors and windows can be pricey, adding exterior caulk and weather stripping to fill in gaps where air can escape around these openings can make a noticeable difference for a fraction of the cost and make it cheaper to heat and cool your home. Install Skylights Skylights are a cost-effective option for transforming any room in the home with natural light while also delivering energy-saving benefits. For example, Sun Tunnel Skylights from Velux can be installed in as little as 90 minutes and funnel natural light from the roof through the attic and into the room below with an aesthetic that resembles recessed lighting. Customizable with six diffuser film styles to complement interior design, the skylights can make a home more energy-efficient by reducing reliance on artificial lighting. An optional daylight controller makes it easy for homeowners to adjust natural light entering a room, and a solar nightlight provides a moon-like guiding light at night. Installed with the solar nightlight, the skylights qualify for a 26% federal tax credit on solar property. Add Reflective Window Film When the sun shines through windows, it can heat up the home’s interior quickly and trigger the air conditioner to turn on. Window coverings, such as blackout curtains, can help, but adding low-e reflective window film to your windowpanes, particularly southern-facing ones, can provide an additional shield from the sun’s hot rays and reduce energy costs. Install a Programmable Thermostat A programmable thermostat is an efficient way to control the climate inside your home, and those with smart technology take programming to a whole new level. Today’s smart thermostats not only let homeowners control temperatures from their smart devices while on-the-go but can also learn daily habits and adjust the temperature accordingly with no other manual adjustments necessary. In addition, some utility companies offer incentives like money back at the end of the year for installing a smart thermostat because the energy savings are so substantial.

4

DesertSTAR

Replace Appliances Because appliances like refrigerators and ovens, among others, are major energy users, investing in more efficient models provides both cost and energy savings. Additionally, homes more than 15 years old could benefit from updates to the air conditioner or heater as systems 15-20 years old or older may be candidates for replacement as they’re inefficient by today’s standards. Add Ceiling Fans In comparison to running your air conditioner consistently, the cost of running a ceiling fan (or several) is significantly less. Particularly on days that may not require cooling the entire house completely, fans can provide a gentle breeze and circulate air in the spaces you use most often. Simply adjust the switch to the counterclockwise position to ensure it’s pushing air downward during warmer months. For more information and home improvement ideas, visit whyskylights.com/livelighter.

June 12, 2020

www.desertstarweekly.com


Police Association Lashes Back at Palm Springs Council Member

NBC PS - Daytona Everett For the second day in a row, local law enforcement is lashing out at elected officials who are asking for reviews of

policing policies. As seen on Tuesday, Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco railed against county supervisors. “Politics is killing our

On Wednesday, the Palm Springs Police Officers Association issued a scathing response to suggestions by the city council that a review is conducted in Palm Springs. Councilmember Christy Holstege submitted a letter to the county asking for a review of the sheriff’s department practices and policies in communities. Part of the letter reads: “Riverside County, in Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley, we have a long history of racial segregation and exclusion, racial violence, racist city policies and policing and disparities in our community that exist today.” The POA said in response that Holstege “stood by for country, and this is an the past two years allowing example,” he said. “This overwhelmingly implies that we these perceived racist ideologies within our city and are doing something wrong, department to continue.” and someone needs to fix it.”

By Desert Star Staff Though made of silicone and often considered the choice of sexual loners, there’s nothing inflated about the success of the robot sex doll industry, as the lockdown leaves singles and couples alike craving experimental excitement. While the economic figures out today from the Office for Budget Responsibility show that the UK’s economic hit for the financial year ending April 2021 could be around £300 billion, one area of the economy is undoubtedly enjoying a fantastic pandemic… the robot sex doll industry. So when you see your neighbors packing the kids in the car and heading off for a day at the beach this weekend – social distancing and “essential travel” are for busybodies, after all – at least knowing that more sex dolls than ever are finding new friends during these tough times should

cheer you up a bit. One supplier, Sex Doll Genie, says it is struggling to keep up with the surge in demand that has hit them since the lockdown began more than two months ago. SDG’s Janet Stevenson says the company she co-founded with her husband, Amit, has just added staff in both the US and Europe, bucking the global recession and the slashing of jobs across the retail sector, which continues to suffer as shops are shuttered. Amit told Daily Star Online that, as a result of the increased interest in the rubberized companions, research and development was progressing at such a rate that models which can breathe and even simulate a heartbeat could be on the market by the end of the year. Amit, clearly a pioneer in the sex doll biz, said he was hoping developers could come up with a way to hook the doll up to existing services such as Amazon’s Alexa or Apple’s

Siri, so those lonely lotharios can have a conversation with their new robot friend. He said: “We’re tinkering along with how we can put dolls in a mode where they can just talk to you, or flirt with you, all those romantic things you would expect your doll to do.” He may be overesеtimating the romantic expectations most people have of dolls, but

Later, the association said the city council has always been “incredibly supportive in the past.” The POA added that they “stand with the community and support reforms to end injustices throughout the nation.” Amid the back and forth, Indio Police Chief Mike Washburn told the crowd at a vigil to honor George Floyd that his department has rewritten 96 policies this year alone. The Riverside County Board of Supervisors has declined to vote on a proposal to review policies for the sheriff’s department. Palm Springs city council has a meeting Thursday night. The recent conversation will likely be on the agenda, according to Holstege. Source: NBC Palm Springs

turning up to a K-League football match for FC Seoul. They seemed to be having fun, though it was hard to tell if they were smiling as they all wore surgical face masks. It is often acknowledged by web historians that the demand for internet porn is what drove the development of secure e-commerce platforms now used by everyone.

Robot sex dolls: The real winners in the coronavirus pandemic

hey, shoot for the stars. Don’t let the haters hold you back. Just a quick look through the SDG website, with some of the lingerie-clad models, posed looking wistfully out the window (searching for new love?), shows that sex dolls have feelings too. They clearly enjoy life outside the bedroom wardrobe, with a crowd of them recently

Safety of County Clerks, Poll Workers Means Fewer Voting Locations By Desert Star Staff FRANKFORT, Ky. -The state has expanded absentee ballot voting to all registered voters for the upcoming primary election, and the deadline to request a mail-in ballot is June 15. During a recent AARP Kentucky Tele-Town Hall event, Secretary of State Michael Adams offered insight into why residents will see significantly fewer polling locations than in years past. “It takes 15,000 poll workers to run an election,” www.desertstarweekly.com

Adams said. “The deadline for poll workers to be finalized was March 20, we didn’t have remotely enough poll workers. We extended the deadline to April 24, still couldn’t get poll workers. We just don’t have enough poll workers to have a traditional election.” Kentuckians also can vote by appointment in person by calling their county clerk’s office. On election day, Adams noted, most counties will only have one polling location open. Kentuckians with questions about the voting process

should visit the State Board of Elections website, or call their county clerk’s office. Adams said the easiest way to vote is to go online and request an absentee ballot be mailed to your home. “GoVoteKY.com is that website. The safest, most convenient way for you to vote is to vote absentee,” he said. “We’re strongly encouraging people to do that to reduce crowd size at the polls.” Adams said the absentee ballot includes return postage paid by the state. And he June 12, 2020

pointed out voting by mail protects the health of those volunteers willing to assist at polling locations. “Most of our poll workers are of advanced age. And so, those are the last people that we want to ask to put

themselves at risk being surrounded by the general public for 12 hours,” he said. He said residents also can chose to fill out a mail-in ballot at home and hand-deliver it to their county clerk’s office.

SUBSCRIBE NOW

to your community newspaper serving desert cities and beyond. For as low as

desert

STAR W

E

E

K

L

Y

25

$

For one year subscription mailed to your home

Please Call

760-671-6604 DesertSTAR

5


Talking to Students About Systemic Racism By Desert Star Staff The killing of George Floyd by a police officer in Minneapolis has amplified calls for white people to openly discuss systemic racism. Those calls include adults having talks with school-age children. Protesters demanding racial justice say providing children with a better understanding of the history behind racial inequalities can help to eliminate such problems in the future. Mary McCorkle, president of the South Dakota Education Association, says she thinks both parents and teachers can play a role in sparking conversations. She says classrooms provide a good setting since many students are curious about the news they are exposed to. “Students are, again, depending upon their age, are very much aware of what’s going on or if they’re younger

students, they may have questions,” she points out. McCorkle says it’s important to let students lead the conversations, and for teachers and parents to follow up with questions. And she says the situation also creates opportunities for school districts to enhance their curriculum to have a more accurate portrayal of the nation’s history when it comes to systemic racism. McCorkle says she hopes the awareness will also lead to the hiring of more educators of color, which she says can help students from diverse backgrounds feel more connected in the classroom. “How do we begin to help grow the number of educators of color so that students they see, they see themselves reflected in the world around them?” she states. According to federal data, South Dakota is among the 30 states that have a

Many educators say the recent protests over systemic racism should inspire more training for school teachers to discuss these issues in the classroom. (Adobe Stock) shortage of bilingual teachers. McCorkle says this issue is a top priority for her organization as a way to

help shape a more robust learning environment in classrooms across the state. Disclosure: South Dakota

Education Association contributes to our fund for reporting on Education.

Biden indulges fantasy of Trump refusing to leave office in November

By Desert Star Staff Joe Biden says he has “great concern” that Donald Trump will not only “steal” the 2020 presidential election, but could also refuse to leave the White House should he lose.

‘Daily Show’ host Trevor Noah is one of a growing number of liberals concerned about November’s election, partly due to recent reports out of Georgia showing people waiting hours in

line to cast their ballots. “What is the plan up until November, to make sure the people can vote, everybody can, whether it’s Republican or Democrat, black or white, has the opportunity to vote without

being in a line that’s six hours long?” Noah asked Biden, who recently clinched the number of delegates needed to get the Democratic Party’s nomination. Biden then jumped on the bandwagon, saying he’s afraid that the president is plotting to “steal” the vote. “It’s my greatest concern. My single greatest concern. This president is going to try to steal this election,” the former vice president declared. “This is a guy who said that all mail-in ballots are fraudulent while he sits behind the desk in the Oval Office and writes his mail-in ballot to vote in the primary.” .@JoeBiden thinks Trump will try to steal the election and has an idea of what will happen if Trump loses and refuses to leave the White House. — The Daily Show An odd moment then occurred during the broadcast, in which Noah asked if Biden is also worried Trump could refuse to leave the White

House if he loses. Biden bit on the fantasy scenario, but the footage only cut back to him mid-sentence after a cut. Saying he was pleased with military officials speaking out publicly against Trump, Biden said Trump would be removed by such officials with “great dispatch” if he refused to leave. I promise you, I am absolutely convinced, they will escort him from the White House with great dispatch. The narrative that Trump is trying to undermine the upcoming election and may not accept the results has become increasingly popular among liberal commenters. HBO host Bill Maher has played out the scenario of the president refusing to leave office multiple times on his program, and MSNBC’s Chris Hayes even used peoples’ difficulty casting votes in Georgia as an example of Trump trying to “undermine” the election.

OPEC+ decides to keep oil production cuts through July

By Desert Star Staff The Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and allied oil producers, led by Russia, have agreed to prolong record oil production cuts until the end of July, Russia’s Energy Minister Aleksandr Novak confirmed. “OPCE+ have decided to maintain oil production cuts of 9.7 million barrels per day for July,” Novak announced following the online meeting of the 13 members of the oil alliance and 10 non-OPEC

6

DesertSTAR

states. The OPEC+ had initially agreed in April that it would cut supply by 9.7 million barrels per day (BPD) during May-June to prop up prices that collapsed due to the coronavirus crisis. Those cuts were due to taper to 7.7 million BPD from July to December, but for July, the terms of the deal will remain unchanged. One of the reasons for prolonging the agreement was excessive oil reserves, despite supply shortages being expected shortly,

the minister pointed out. Mexico, which was earlier reluctant to play along and prolong production cuts, remains in the deal, Novak said. During the online meeting of the most significant players on the oil market, it was also decided that Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, and Oman will additionally reduce oil production in July by 1.2 million barrels per day, Azerbaijan’s energy ministry said. Countries such as Iraq and Nigeria, which June 12, 2020

exceeded production quotas in May and June, were told to compensate by introducing extra cuts between July and September. Russia intends to fulfill its obligations 100 percent in June, with all of the country’s oil companies confirming the cuts, Novak pointed out. Prolonging the deal till the end of July will allow to reduce risks and decrease oil reserves, he said, adding that the market reacts positively to the OPEC+ deal. “Demand is returning as

big oil-consuming economies emerge from pandemic lockdown. But we are not out of the woods yet, and challenges ahead remain,” Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, energy minister of Saudi Arabia – the de facto leader of OPEC – told his colleagues during the conference. On Friday, benchmark Brent crude reached $42 per barrel, more than doubling since April. However, it’s still a third lower than its price in late 2019.

www.desertstarweekly.com


Desert Star Weekly Legals PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING a. Date: July 31, 2020 Time: 8:30 a.m., Dept.: PS4. The address of the court is: 3255 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262, County of Riverside 3.a. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county (specify newspaper): DESERT STAR WEEKLY 13279 PALM DRIVE SUITE 5, DESERT HOT SPRINGS, CA 92240 Dated: 2/28/20 Judge of the Superior Court, Publish June 5, 12, 19, 26, 2020. DSW20-2068 CITY OF DESERT HOT SPRINGS NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING USER FEE STUDY AND COST ALLOCATION PLAN NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Desert Hot Springs will conduct a Public Hearing to consider adoption of the User Fee Study and Cost Allocation Plan. The Public Hearing will be held as follows: Pursuant to California Governor Newsom’s Executive Orders N-25-20 issued on March 4, 2020 and N-29-20 issued on March 18, 2020, the City Council regular meeting will be conducted remotely through Zoom and broadcast live on the City’s YouTube channel. Access to the zoom meeting will be available with the published agenda. Pursuant to the Executive Orders, and to ensure the health and safety of the public by limiting human contact that could spread the COVID-19 virus, the Carl May Center/Council Chamber will not be open for the meeting. The City Council and Staff will be participating remotely and will not be physically present in the Council Chamber. Location: Via videoconference (Zoom). Access to the zoom meeting will be a v a i l a b l e with the published agenda Date: Tuesday, June 16, 2020 Time: 6:00 P.M. (or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard). INTERESTED PERSONS MAY participate and be heard, or written comments may be sent to the City Council prior to the hearing. Written comments may be mailed or delivered prior to 4:00 p.m. on June 16, 2020 to cityclerk@ cityofdhs.org Pursuant to Government Code Section 66016, a copy of the draft report regarding the proposed fees is available for inspection via the City’s website. A copy of the draft report is also available for inspection by appointment in the Office of the City Clerk, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday. Please call (760) 329-6411 to make an appointment. QUESTIONS AND INQUIRIES may be addressed to Geoffrey Buchheim, Finance Director, at (760) 329-6411 Ext. 227 or via email to gbuchheim@ cityofdhs.org.

Jerryl Soriano, CMC City Clerk Publish June 5, 12, 2020, DSW5103 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME, CASE NO. PSC 2001483, SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA 3255 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, CA 92263, COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. KATHRYN SUSAN TRAVERS filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: 1a. Present Name: KATHRYN SUSAN TRAVERS to Proposed Name: SUSAN KATHRYN TAPPAN. 2b. Present name: SUSAN KATHRYN TRAVERS to Proposed Name: SUSAN KATHRYN TAPPAN. 3c. Present name: SUSAN KATHERYN TAPPAN to Proposed Name SUSAN KATHRYN TAPPAN. 4d. Present Name: SUSAN K. TAPPAN to Proposed Name: SUSAN KATHRYN TAPPAN. THE COURT ORDERS

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS (ARE) DOING BUSINESS AS: GOLDEN COAST CBD, 200 RIDGE MOUNTAIN DR., PALM SPRINGS, CA 92264. Riverside County; 200 RIDGE MOUNTAIN DR., PALM SPRINGS, CA 92264. Full name of registrant: ACCUCASH NV II, LLC, 1584 LITTLE MORONGO ROAD, DESERT HOT SPRINGS, CA 92240/ FORMED IN NEVADA, REGISTERED IN CALIFORNIA. Business is conducted by LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. Registrant has yet to transact business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above. I declare that all the information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant, who declares as true, information which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime) Signed KELL BURTZLOFF, MEMBER. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Riverside County on 06/01/2020. Peter Aldana, Assessor-County Clerk-Recorder File No. R-202005452. NOTICE — THIS FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT EXPIRES FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THAT TIME. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411, ET. SEQ., BUSINES SAND PROFESSIONS CODE). Publish June 5, 12, 19, 26, 2020 DSW20-5102 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS (ARE) DOING BUSINESS AS: FOREVER HOMES U.S.A., 33930 BARKER LANE, MENIFEE, CA 92584. Riverside County. Full name of registrant: YVONNE- -BERRY, 33930 BARKER LANE, MENIFEE, CA 92584. Business is conducted by INDIVIDUAL. Registrant has yet to transact business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above. I declare that all the information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant, who declares as true, information which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime) Signed YVONNE BERRY. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Riverside County on 06/01/2020. Peter Aldana, Assessor-County Clerk-Recorder File No. R-202005480. NOTICE — THIS FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT EXPIRES FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THAT TIME. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411, ET. SEQ., BUSINES SAND PROFESSIONS CODE). Publish June 5, 12, 19, 26, 2020 DSW20-5101 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS (ARE) DOING BUSINESS AS: ATTENTION 2 RESALE, 2243 N. GIRASOL AVE, PALM SPRINGS, CA 92262. Riverside County. Full name of registrant: JASON LAWRENCE MCCULLOUGH, 2243 N GIRASOL AVE, PALM SPRINGS, CA 92262. Business is conducted by INDIVIDUAL. Registrant has yet to transact business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above.

PUBLIC NOTICE

June 12, 2020 PUBLIC NOTICE

I declare that all the information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant, who declares as true, information which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime) Signed JASON LAWRENCE MCCULLOUGH. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Riverside County on 05/27/2020. Peter Aldana, Assessor-County Clerk-Recorder File No. R-202005279. NOTICE — THIS FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT EXPIRES FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THAT TIME. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411, ET. SEQ., BUSINES SAND PROFESSIONS CODE). Publish May 29, June 5, 12, 19, 2020 DSW20-5091 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS (ARE) DOING BUSINESS AS: RIDGELINE NATURAL SALES; RIDGELINE, 55056 OAK TREE, LA QUINTA, CA 92253. Riverside County. Full name of registrant: SELECT SALES AND MARKETING, INC., 55056 OAK TREE, LA QUINTA, CA 92253/CA. Business is conducted by CORPORATION. Registrant has yet to transact business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above. I declare that all the information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant, who declares as true, information which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime) Signed DANIEL SHUBIN, PRESIDENT. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Riverside County on 05/14/2020. Peter Aldana, Assessor-County Clerk-Recorder File No. R-202004942. NOTICE — THIS FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT EXPIRES FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THAT TIME. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411, ET. SEQ., BUSINES SAND PROFESSIONS CODE). Publish May 29, June 5, 12, 19, 2020 DSW20-5090 T.S. No. 20-60322 APN: 689-141-005-4 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 5/8/2017. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. A public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash, cashier’s check drawn on a state or national bank, check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, or savings association, or savings bank specified in Section 5102 of the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state will be held by the duly appointed trustee as shown below, of all right, title, and interest conveyed to and now held by the trustee in the hereinafter described property under and pursuant to a Deed of Trust described below. The sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by the Deed of Trust, with interest and late charges thereon, as provided in the note(s), advances, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, interest thereon, fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee for the total amount (at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale) reasonably estimated to be set forth below. The amount may be greater on the day of sale. Trustor: TIMOTHY C. WHEELOCK, AN UNMARRIED MAN Duly Appointed Trustee: ZBS Law, LLP Deed of Trust recorded 5/10/2017, as Instrument No. 2017-0187295, of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of Riverside County, California, Date of Sale:7/15/2020 at 9:00 AM Place of Sale Auction.com Room, 2410 Wardlow Road #104, Corona, CA 92880. Estimated amount of unpaid balance and other charges: $181,638.60. Note: Because the Beneficiary reserves the right to bid less than the total debt owed, it is possible that at the time of the sale the opening bid may be less than the total debt owed. Street Address or

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

other common designation of real property: 70100 MIRAGE COVE DRIVE #5 RANCHO MIRAGE, California 92270-2968. Described as follows: As more fully described on said Deed of Trust A.P.N #.: 689-141-005-4 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address or other common designation, if any, shown above. If no street address or other common designation is shown, directions to the location of the property may be obtained by sending a written request to the beneficiary within 10 days of the date of first publication of this Notice of Sale. NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property. NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call (800) 280-2832 or visit this Internet Web site www. auction.com, using the file number assigned to this case 20-60322. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the Internet Web site. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. Dated: 6/8/2020 ZBS Law, LLP , as Trustee 30 Corporate Park, Suite 450 Irvine, CA 92606 For Non-Automated Sale Information, call: (714) 848-7920 For Sale Information: (800) 280-2832 www.auction.com.________________________ Michael Busby, Trustee Sale Officer. This office is enforcing a security interest of your creditor. To the extent that your obligation has been discharged by a bankruptcy court or is subject to an automatic stay of bankruptcy, this notice is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a demand for payment or any attempt to collect such obligation. EPP 31631 6/12, 6/19, 6/26/2020. DSW50-5104 T.S. No.: 20-24211 A.P.N.: 650-143-010 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 9/9/2010. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. A public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash, cashier’s check drawn on a state or national bank, check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, or savings association, or savings bank specified in Section 5102 of the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state will be held by the duly appointed trustee as shown below, of all right, title, and interest conveyed to and now held by the trustee in the hereinafter described property under and pursuant to a Deed of Trust described below. The sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by the Deed of Trust, with interest and late charges thereon, as provided in the note(s), advances, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, interest thereon, fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee for the total amount (at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale) reasonably estimated to be set forth below. The amount may be greater on the

page

7

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

day of sale. BENEFICIARY MAY ELECT TO BID LESS THAN THE TOTAL AMOUNT DUE. Trustor: DARLENE DEWAR, AN UNMARRIED WOMAN. Duly Appointed Trustee: Carrington Foreclosure Services, LLC Recorded 9/15/2010 as Instrument No. 20100441602 in book , page Loan Modification recorded on 10/22/2015 as Instrument No. 2015-0464001 of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of Riverside County, California, Described as follows: AS MORE FULLY DESCRIBED ON SAID DEED OF TRUST Date of Sale: 7/8/2020 at 9:00 AM Place of Sale: In front of the Corona Civic Center, 849 W. Sixth Street, Corona, CA 92882 Amount of unpaid balance and other charges: $95,189.69 (Estimated) Street Address or other common designation of real property: 31235 MONTE VISTA WAY THOUSAND PALMS, CA 92276 A.P.N.: 650143-010 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address or other common designation, if any, shown above. If no street address or other common designation is shown, directions to the location of the property may be obtained by sending a written request to the beneficiary within 10 days of the date of first publication of this Notice of Sale. If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee, and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, or the Mortgagee’s Attorney. If you have previously been discharged through bankruptcy, you may have been released of personal liability for this loan in which case this letter is intended to exercise the note holder’s rights against the real property only. THIS NOTICE IS SENT FOR THE PURPOSE OF COLLECTING A DEBT. THIS FIRM IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT ON BEHALF OF THE HOLDER AND OWNER OF THE NOTE. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED BY OR PROVIDED TO THIS FIRM OR THE CREDITOR WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. As required by law, you are hereby notified that a negative credit report reflecting on your credit record may be submitted to a credit report agency if you fail to fulfill the terms of your credit obligations. NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property. NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call (800) 758-8052 or visit this Internet Web site www.Xome.com, using the file number assigned to this case 20-24211. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the Internet Web site. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. Date: 05/26/2020 Carrington Foreclosure Services, LLC 1500 South Douglass Road, Suite 150 Anaheim, CA 92806 Automated Sale Information: (800) 758-8052 or www.Xome. com for NON-SALE information: 888-313-1969 Tai Alailima, Director. Publish 6/5/20, 6/12/20, 6/19/20. DSW20-5100

Groups Demand Armed Officers in Protests Show Badges By Desert Star Staff ARLINGTON, Va. -Despite a weekend of peaceful protests in Washington, D.C., over the police killing of George Floyd in Minnesota, civil liberties groups say the presence of unidentified law enforcement officials in the city is causing concern. The Knight First Amendment Institute has called on Attorney General William Barr to require all officers to display their agency

affiliations, after journalists identified Federal Bureau of Prisons officers with no insignia patrolling protests. The so-called “No-Badge” practice is a way to avoid accountability and intimidate protesters, according to Garett Reppenhagen, executive director of the group Veterans for Peace. He said it’s especially dangerous to use unidentified prison guards to patrol peaceful marchers. “When the only folks

GOT NEWS?

you’re used to dealing with are already convicted prisoners, I think you might tend on treating everybody as if they’re a convicted prisoner, when they’re just citizens of the United States trying to exercise their First Amendment rights,” Reppenhagen said. Yesterday, President Donald Trump began withdrawing National Guard troops from the nation’s capital in a step back from his show of force against protesters in Lafayette Park last week. But some demonstrators

say officers without visible identification remained on the scene over the weekend. Trump’s move comes after Washington, D.C., Mayor Muriel Bowser requested he withdraw all extra federal officers from the city. She said unidentified federal personnel pose both safety and national security risks. Reppenhagen said he agrees with Bowser. He pointed out that whenever armed soldiers are used to patrol crowds, it’s an invitation for violent resistance.

“Not a lot of people like to be humiliated and intimidated by soldiers on their streets and in their communities,” he said. “So, I’m a little worried that the more we militarize and escalate in our communities, the more we’re going to see violence and bloodshed. And I hope that we can stand down our troops for black lives.” More demonstrations are planned for Monday in D.C., including an ongoing protest across from the fenced-in White House.

The Desert Star Weekly welcomes news and photos of local interest. Photos and jpg logos should be a minimum of 4x6” at 300 dpi (1800 x 1200 pixels). The deadline is each Friday at 5 p.m.

SEND YOUR PRESS RELEASE TO

editor@desertstarweekly.com

Law enforcement officers with no visible identification wait for protesters in downtown Washington, D.C., on Sat., June 6. (Wikimedia Commons)


Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Special Steaks to Celebrate Dad

A

FAMILY FEATURES

Father’s Day gifting can be pretty simple: Many dads want a delicious steak. Give him a collection of tender cuts with the Filet for Father’s Day package from Omaha Steaks, which includes four 7-ounce Butcher’s Cut Filet Mignons, eight 6-ounce brisket burgers, four 3-ounce gourmet jumbo franks, four 2.88ounce potatoes au gratin, four 4-ounce individual New York cheesecakes and a 3.1-ounce jar of signature seasoning. Find more meal ideas for dad at omahasteaks.com.

n entire day dedicated to dear ol’ dad may not be enough to show the depths of your appreciation, but a hug, a heartfelt thanks and some quality time (even from afar) are great places to start. When it comes to giving gifts for Father’s Day, practical and purposeful gifts are high on most dads’ lists. Think about his favorite things to eat and the ways he spends his coveted down time. A gift that celebrates the things that matter most to him is sure to earn dad’s gratitude. Find more ideas to make it a Father’s Day to remember at eLivingtoday.com.

A Ladder for Dad’s Jobs As a 3-in-1 ladder that easily converts to stepladder, extension and leaning configurations, the Little Giant King Kombo gives you the perfect tool for nearly any job. A rotating wall pad lets you safely lean your ladder on inside and outside corners, walls and 2-by-4-inch studs. Made from lightweight, non-conductive fiberglass, you can safely work around electricity, and the IAA 375-pound weight rating makes the ladder sturdy enough for the job. Find more information at amazon.com.

A Sharp Gift for Dad A knife is only as good as the sharpness of its blade. This Father’s Day, get dad a helpful tool to keep his knives wicked sharp. Made from high-quality materials, the Wicked Edge GO knife sharpener is easy to use for both new and veteran knife sharpeners and can accommodate a wide variety of knives. With guided angle control, dad can get professional-level results every time. Learn more at wickededgeusa.com.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Supplies He’ll Auto-matically Enjoy

Gear to Go Fishing

If tinkering in the garage is dad’s favorite pastime, give him an excuse to spend even more time with a project that proves he’s passing the hours productively. A collection of car detailing supplies lets him buff and shine his ride to perfection. Be sure to include products that let him spruce things up inside and out, and throw in an extra touch like a personalized travel mug that will keep on giving well after Father’s Day has passed.

Even the most avid fishermen can typically use more gear. From replenishing the tackle box with fresh supplies to a new rod he can use to reel in a real catch, gift dad with items that let him hang out a “gone fishing” sign and enjoy some time on the water. If he’s an extra-avid sportsman, be sure to also check out the wide variety of tech-enabled locators that give him a little nudge to boost his chances for a successful day.

8

DesertSTAR

June 12, 2020

www.desertstarweekly.com


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.