Desert Star Weekly Oct. 12, 2022 issue!

Ofelia Bringas Memorial Bridge

By Desert Star Staff

City leaders, residents, family members, and Representatives Raul Ruiz and Mike Levin celebrated the Ofelia Bringas Memorial Bridge’s dedication on Thursday, October 6, 2022.

During the program, the city unveiled a plaque and artwork commemorating her life and accomplishments.

Cathedral City High School student Mariah Hernandez sang the National Anthem before the ceremony,

followed by remarks from: • Cathedral City Mayor Ernesto Gutierrez

• DeeAnn Hopings, Chair, Cathedral City Public Arts Commission

• Raul Ruiz, U.S. Representative for CA-36

Palm Springs House Party

Story and Photos by Pat Krause House Party PS held its Hollywood Magic party to benefit Sanctuary Palm Springs. The Richmond/ Ermet Foundation, along with homeowners Don Kraft and Steve Knill asked friends to join them for this fundraiser. 200 guests bought tickets to this sold-out event. Guests arrived at the music of DJ Mod Girl, who dances and sways away to the music.

This was an entertaining evening with artist Steve Knill, a singer/actor. Knill sang a couple songs while playing his guitar. He is very multi-talented.

He sang Margaritaville while adding and adjusting

a few lyrics for the occasion. The audience loved the new versions. He also sang I Will Always Love You.

Alix Korey sang a song written just for her. It shows her comedic singing, which is her signature style. Her songs bring laughter and loud clapping. She brings fun to her songs with gestures and her incredible voice. This lady has such an extensive resume from Broadway. She has been seen locally many times and often at the, One Night Only concerts.

Sanctuary Palms Springs was created to help many gay men and women recently removed

• Mike Levin, U.S. Representative for CA-49

• Henry Bringas, Son of Ofelia Bringas

A youth counselor devoted her entire career to bringing available resources to those in need; Bringas was a pillar for

this community. She supported thousands of families in the Coachella Valley struggling with childcare, poverty, food scarcity, and language barriers. Bringas began her career

Rep. Mike Levin, Mayor Ernesto Gutierrez, Rep. Mike Levin’s mother, Henry Bringas, Rep. Raul Ruiz

Lawsuit Goes to Court Alleging Cell Phones Cause Brain Tumors

Jim McBride, Joe Seiler

REAF Board chair, - Sanctuary

PS Prod. Director - Tammy Nelson and CEO- Tammy Wilson with Ken Henderson, CEO of REAF. Photo by Pat Krause

MUSIC

BY ROBERT KINSLER

A Handful Of Rock ‘n’ Roll Reads

Whether you are looking to add a good book to your personal library or seeking out early holiday gift ideas, there are a number of wonderful new titles available in print now.

Title: Ghosts of the Congo

Author: Richard Blade Publisher: BladeRocker Books Hardcover: 335 pages

Tell me more: One of America’s best-known and popular DJs, Richard Blade hosts a daily show on SiriusXM’s 1st Wave and on KCBS. He has recently earned well-deserved acclaim for his writing, penning an autobiography (World In My Eyes), a collection of interviews conducted during the pandemic (The Lockdown Interviews) and a series of exciting novels including SPQR, Birthright and Imposters. Blending the actionpacked adventure of an Edgar Rice Burroughs classic with the pulse of an edgy contemporary political thriller, Blade’s latest novel Ghosts of the Congo will keep readers engaged and entertained. Blade has a gift for using sharp dialogue, winning characters and colorful detail to propel his suspense-filled storytelling across every page. From the ravaged streets of America’s broken cities and top levels of power in Washington,

D.C. to the most remote jungles of West Africa, the events that play out in Ghosts Of The Congo blur the line between fiction and modern history. The story revolves around a thrilling rescue mission to save a group of America’s most important VIPs, including the nation’s First Lady and the Vice President. Read this thrilling novel before some savvy producer makes it into a cinematic blockbuster. Information: RichardBlade.com.

Title: Bowie at 75

Author: Martin Popoff

Publisher: Motorbooks

Hardcover with slipcase: 208 pages

Tell me more: Acclaimed author/rock music aficionado Martin Popoff has turned his expertise and wordcraft to celebrate the legacy of the late David Bowie. The essential Bowie at 75 is a fascinating and well-researched volume that chronicles distinct sides of Bowie’s wide-ranging career that sadly ended with the release of his final album Blackstar on his 69th birthday — that masterwork was released a mere two days before his death on Jan. 10, 2016. Popoff brings the reader on a fastmoving chronological journey through 75 “career highlights” of Bowie’s life. The result is both a well-aimed introduction and exhaustive appreciation of his singular journey as a pioneering singer-songwriter, genre-defying rockstar and acclaimed actor. Fully illustrated with historic photographs (including 250 color images), memorabilia such as concert posters,

7-inch picture sleeves and more, this is an important and objective appreciation of one of one of rock music’s most influential names. Information: quarto.com.

Title: Belle and Sebastian: Illustrated Lyrics

Authors: Lyrics by Stuart Murdoch; Illustrations by Pamela Tait

Publisher: Thames & Hudson

Hardcover: 128 pages; 40 illustrations in color and B&W

Tell me more: Scottish chamber pop outfit Belle and Sebastian has enjoyed acclaim for a winning parade of albums dating back to their 1996 debut Tigermilk. Now band leader Stuart Murdoch has teamed with illustrator Pamela Tait on the new hardcover title Belle and Sebastian: Illustrated Lyrics.

The lovely collaboration features enticing visual reinterpretations of many of Belle and Sebastian’s best-known songs including “If You’re Feeling Sinister,” “The Boy with the Arab Strap,” “Piazza, New York Catcher,” “Another Sunny Day” and “Nobody’s Empire.” A fateful project to be sure, Murdoch first fell in love with Tait’s intricate and expressive illustrations when he rediscovered an old fan email sent to him by her a

decade earlier. Now fans of Belle and Sebastian — as well as Tait’s signature artwork - can share in the magic. Information: ThamesAndudsonUSA.com.

Title: Through the Prism: Untold Rock Stories from the Hipgnosis Archive

Author: Aubrey Powell

Publisher: Thames & Hudson

Hardcover: 320 pages

Tell me more: Those looking for a behind-the-scenes closeup look at the world of a number of classic rock masters will want to pick up Through the Prism: Untold Stories from the Hipgnosis Archive. Fans of Pink Floyd, AC/DC, Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath, The Who, The Police, Paul McCartney and others will all enjoy insights courtesy of designer, photographer and filmmaker Aubrey “Po” Powell. The multitalented artist founded the graphic design studio Hipgnosis with Storm Thorgerson in 1968; this is a lavish edition to be sure with more than 250 illustrations and photographs spread across the volume’s 320 pages. What’s more, Powell is brutally honest as the shares previously-untold tales featuring a notable cast of musicians, actors, managers, comedians and world leaders. From the founding of Hipgnosis

in the midst of rock and roll’s golden age to surviving drug busts and sharing details about the birth of the most famous album cover of all time (Dark Side of the Moon), this is a must have title. Information: ThamesAndudsonUSA.com.

Title: Disturbing The Peace: 415 Records and the Rise of New Wave

Author: Bill Kopp

Publisher: HoZac Books

Paperback: 362 pages

Tell me more: Wire Train, Romeo Void, Red Rockers, The Nuns, Roky Erickson and Translator are only a few of the groundbreaking artists with ties to seminal San Francisco-based 415 Records in the late 1970s and early-to-mid 1980s. Now author Bill Kopp is revisiting the Bay Area’s thriving indie music scene of that era via the wonderful Disturbing The Peace: 415 Records and the Rise of New Wave. Based on nearly 100 interviews with artists, industry executives, friends, producers, journalists and more, the book also features hundreds of photos, gig posters and memorabilia from the personal archives of those who were in the midst of the burgeoning music scene championed by 415 (pronounced four-one-five) Records. The book also features a foreword by Joel Selvin. Information: 415book.com

CA Hunger-Fighting Groups Optimistic after White House Conference

By Desert Star Staff

Groups fighting hunger in California say untold suffering could be avoided if implemented policies championed at the latest White House conference.

The event was the first of its kind in 50 years, bringing together government agencies, nonprofits, and private companies, to wipe out hunger in the U.S. by 2030.

Itzúl Gutierrez with the California Association of Food Banks said she was glad to hear President Joe Biden voice support for strategies to reduce poverty

and, thus, fight hunger.

“We were very excited to see raising the minimum wage to $15 an hour and expanding the Earned Income Tax Credit, in addition to the Child Tax Credit,” Gutierrez outlined. “And also investments in housing and rental assistance.”

The conference also promoted ideas long championed by the California Hunger Action Coalition, including expanding free school meals to all kids and allowing college students, recent immigrants, and formerly incarcerated people to participate in CalFresh.

Gutierrez pointed out she was disappointed the conference made little mention of food insecurity in undocumented families.

Many proposals face significant Republican opposition in Congress based on cost concerns.

Tracy Weatherby, vice president of strategy and advocacy for Second Harvest of Silicon Valley, said 60% of its clients have less than $250 in savings. The financial squeeze will worsen once the feds declare the public health emergency is over.

When it happens, she stressed, CalFresh

benefits are slated to drop an average of 82 dollars a month per person.

“The White House strategy comes at a crucial time, as nearly all pandemic-era social safety net programs are ending, while food, gas, rent, and other prices are rising,” Weatherby noted. “And that’s leaving families across the country struggling to cover their basic costs.”

Todd Cunningham, the organizer for food and wellness for the Los Angeles Community Action Network, said the pandemic proved that when there’s

a will, there’s a way.

“Not only did they do the school meals for all during the regular school year, but also when summer came around,” Cunningham recounted.

“They also devised solutions for people who couldn’t make it to school to pick them up. We’ve seen that we can come up with creative solutions if we just put our minds to it, and then, we have the will to do it.”

Statistics show one in five households experiences food insecurity, with more profound disparities for Black and Latino communities.

No on 31 Campaign Outspends Yes on 31 by $22 Million

By Desert Star Staff

The No on 31 campaign has spent $2.2 million compared to the Yes by $22 Million on 31 campaign in just one week. This is mainly because the beer industry is pouring in money to defeat the initiative. According to the Public Disclosure Commission website, the Beer Institute and the National Beer Wholesalers Association each contributed $1 million last week.

Other funding sources for the No on 31 campaign include labor unions representing employees

at state liquor stores.

Proposition 31 is backed by groups and politicians who want to stop smoking in California. Supporters of the measure include California Gov. Gavin Newsom, California Teachers Association, California Democratic Party, American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, and the California Teachers Association.

California voters need to pass Proposition 31 to ban flavored tobacco products. This ban would protect kids from the harmful effects of tobacco use, including cancer. In addition, the law would prohibit retailers from selling flavored tobacco products and flavored tobacco products with flavor enhancers. Businesses that fail to comply would face a fine of $250.

Max Liebermann

OFFICE MANAGER

Mindy Salas

DIRECTOR

Dina Rivera

CONTRIBUTORS

Beverly Cohn, Janice Gough, Jack Lyons, Kelly G. Richardson, Madeline Zuckerman, Pamela Price, Pat Krause, Risa D’Angeles, Richard Rowland, Robert Kinsler, Theda Kleinhans Reichman

Pat Krause

The FDA acknowledges that ENDS products are marketed to young children. The FDA has received numerous comments regarding ENDS products, including concerns about youth access. As a result, the agency is evaluating the products for their risks to the population’s health.

The cigarette industry has been trying to lure a new generation to tobacco by introducing flavored tobacco products. They know that younger users are more likely to become addicted to these products, which can lead to a lifetime of health problems. Health care leaders and prevention organizations are working to combat this trend by banning flavored tobacco products.

Public health organizations and dozens of scientific researchers have argued that candy-flavored tobacco products encourage youth to develop nicotine addiction. By banning these products, California can prevent countless kids from trying tobacco.

While the death rate related to smoking remains higher in some groups, it is lower for

others. This regulation will reduce the health disparities based on group membership and inequitable distribution of resources. Besides that, the FDA expects that this will lead to significant reductions in the initiation and progression of cigarette smoking among youth and young adults. It also hopes that this action will prevent cigarette-related diseases and future deaths.

Prop 26: Legalize Sports Betting at Tribal Casinos

By Desert Star Staff

Proposition 26 is a ballot measure that allows inperson sports betting in tribal casinos and racetracks and permits mobile and online sports wagering. However, sports betting could only be offered to people 21 or older at racetracks.

Proposition 26 would legalize in-person sports betting at horse racetracks, and the proposition would also allow tribal casinos to begin offering roulette and dice games, including craps casinos, if passed. It would also raise millions of dollars in state revenue each year. Part of that revenue would be new since the state currently doesn’t get a share of illegal sports bets. Because the state does not require to tax tribes, which are sovereign nations, it requires tribes to reimburse the state for the cost of regulating sports betting.

The rest of the money would come from legal sports bets. It would also provide resources for gambling treatment and prevention. It would also make it possible to offer dice games and roulette at tribal casinos. But it’s unclear whether it would lead to more regulation.

The state is weighing the benefits of legalizing sports betting in California. The Legislative Analyst’s Office estimates that sports betting could generate millions in tax revenue. But despite those benefits, the state’s current tax structure is inefficient.

As a result, Proposition 26’s opponents have spent $125 million advertising to defeat the measure.

It allows online and mobile sports wagering.

Californians may be faced with a tough decision in the midterm elections. One

proposal will allow online and mobile sports betting in the state, while the other will limit it to land-based casinos. However, the two measures differ in many ways. Proposition 27 would allow for online wagering, while Proposition 26 would only allow mobile betting. Moreover, both measures would require licenses from 10 other states.

In addition to legalizing online and mobile sports betting, Proposition 26 aims to fight the state’s homeless crisis. If it passes, 85% of the

proceeds will go to California Solutions to Homelessness. The remaining 15% would go to the Tribal Economic Development Account, which would help expand tribal public health and infrastructure. The proposition also creates a new way of enforcing some gaming laws, allowing anyone to bring a lawsuit if they believe the laws are being violated and the state Justice Department declines to act. Any penalty and settlement money that results would go to the state.

HOROSCOPES

A potent time of change is occurring. Strong desires and powerful emotions can act like ocean swells almost overcoming your ability to think. Alternately, they offer you courage to go where others, even angels, cannot. Tend to finances and resources held with another. Something’s expanding. Hopefully love and communication in relationships. Don’t be ruthless and don’t seek to conquer. Work always with and not over. A leader such as you understands cooperation.

TAURUS

You ponder upon your relationship in terms of love, sacrifice and usefulness. You encourage others to work and cooperate with you. Careful with your energy in relationships. You could create a separation through unaware tendencies, anger and harsh communication. On the other hand, there’s great ability to compromise if you begin a deep listening of other’s needs. Learn the art of negotiation and deeper cooperation. Venus is your guardian angel.

those around you. A lot of fire trucks, police and emergency vehicles pass by. Things filled with love, pass by too. A bit like what you’ve become. Remember patience gets you everywhere and everything.

You need some extra added pleasure, love and romance, or perhaps its sports, competitive and disciplined. However, most likely you are thinking about home and children, showering them with gifts that nurture and nourish. In turn they may not be able to respond as you need or expect. Their energies are high, fast, a bit wild and almost uncontrollable. This will pass. However, you continue to patiently watch over them with care. And do allow yourself to be a bit foolhardy at times.

You’re remembering and contemplating events in the past. Considering previous partnerships, lovers, friends. Careful not to intimidate or weaken yourself with critical thoughts. Gathering information should be very easy now. Allow a natural rhythm to occur with daily life, work, arrangements and plans. Begin to write Halloween (then Thanksgiving) cards by hand, using pen, ink, envelopes, stamps and a secret seal you make yourself. This is a creative meditation.

slowly expands. Careful not to bump your head. Careful of fire. Wear the colors red, orange and violet. Each day, complete all projects. Plan your next ones. Your intuition reaches out to help others.

SAGITTARIUS

You become creative and strong with desires and emotions pushing you towards certain goals. It’s important to practice extreme care and safety especially while doing any physical labor lest accidents, falls, burns, cuts, things red and scratchy occur. Be kind to

The themes continue –communication with family, parents, tending to home, property, traditions. Creating your own traditions. Something seeks balancing concerning your perception of family and/ or parents and making peace with memories filtering through daily life. The old anger doesn’t work or hold up anymore. It actually weakens the body. The starry energies are helping to beautify, repair and organize the environments you live and work in. Prepare your home for an unusual ever-changing future.

You enjoy making, having and using money. Money is a resource, a way to help others. It provides freedom and choice. It can be used to create more wealth. We are given the gifts of money and resources so we can help others. Money helps rebuild the lives of humanity in need. Tithe ten percent of your income to those in need. The old-fashioned word for giving is “charity.” Tithing insures a constant flow of return. Be sure to tend to someone in the family in need. They missyou. And now to you. It’s good to be frivolous sometimes.

You find strength, stamina and endurance growing stronger each day. They help in meeting and responding to unusual challenges that always seem to be appearing along your way. As you pursue for yourself independence, liberty and freedom, your self-identity

Your strength is hidden and veiled for a while. Only you are aware of it resting like a coiled snake within. Next to your strengths are desires and aspirations. They are secret, too. Sometimes you don’t know your motivation for choosing things, actions, people. Sometimes you feel you’re in a conspiracy. Your past comes to brood over you. You wonder do you have enemies? To overcome this seeming strangeness, enter into a new creative endeavor. Know that you’re just in a state of completing karma. A good thing.

CAPRICORN

You have hopes, wishes and dreams and want to express yourself socially with friends and associates. You want to be part of a group that recognizes your talents, gifts, abilities and goodness. A group that doesn’t judge or criticize when you make unusual artistic moves or speak a truth. You’re strong, at times revolutionary. Don’t change. Review goals, create a manifestation journal. Write daily wants and needs, creative plans and how you see yourself in the future. I see beauty and a book.

AQUARIUS

You’re becoming an adventurer, traveler, and philosopher. Justice and mercy become a focus. You see where humanity is caught in polarization, duality, judgment and despair. You love humanity. Aquarius is the sign of humanity. You worry, sensitive to humanity’s needs. You wonder where you stand as part of humanity. An excellent question. You benefit by traveling, undergoing change, moving about here and there. Gradually, you become a world server, actually serving humanity. A disciple.

A renewal, restoration, renaissance is occurring, internally, allowing a new sense of self-confidence to come forth. You sometimes question who and what you are. Wondering if you have real needs, hopes, wishes, desires, dreams. Your needs are very important. Pisces often serves others before serving themselves. You must now turn your energies inward and seek your own counsel, reliability, safety and trust. Entrusting yourself to your own self. The past presents itself. Then disappears. A whole new world is about to appear. It’s supported by the stars.

Risa D’Angeles is the founder and director of the Esoteric & Astrological Studies Research Institute: Risa’s Esoteric Astrology. She can be reached at risagoodwill@gmail.com.

Know Your Governing Documents

By Kelly G. Richardson, Esq. CCAL

Governing documents are critical for HOA communities and are literally the legal glue holding the association together. Civil Code Section 4150 defines “governing documents” as articles of incorporation, CC&Rs, bylaws, and operating rules, but I think subdivision maps and condominium plans also should be regarded as governing documents. Each document has a distinct purpose and function, and every HOA member should have copies.

Subdivision map; Condominium plan: This document breaks up the land into separate pieces of land and/or airspace sold to homeowners in planned development (“lots”) or condominium (“units”) projects. This document is recorded (i.e. filed) with the County

Recorder, is easily retrieved, and defines the “common area” or “association property” and the “separate interest” (i.e., lots or units). Sometimes it also delineates exclusive use common areas or maintenance easement areas. It establishes the real estate interests owned, so any amendment requires agreement of every association member and their mortgage holders, and consequently amendment is highly unlikely.

Articles of incorporation: Articles of Incorporation establish the legal “person” of the association. Filed with the Secretary of State, this document can be retrieved from that office. Older Articles sometimes contain important information about limits on the association or board’s powers. The Articles list the association’s legal name and can be amended by membership vote, although amending is rarely necessary.

Check the association’s corporate status at https://

bizfileOnline.sos.ca.gov.

CC&Rs: The CC&Rs document is recorded (amendments also must be recorded), and therefore is also a public document. Associations often use unrecorded, unofficial copies, but official copies can be retrieved from the County Recorder.

CC&Rs are a lengthy contract automatically binding all owners, and the law holds each to have read, understood, and agreed to its contents... regardless of whether the owner actually reads it.

CC&Rs cover how the property is used, maintained and repaired, and very much affects living in that association. There usually will be a section called “Use Restrictions,” listing a number of prohibited activities, although restrictions can also be located elsewhere in the document. Restrictions can range from pet limits to parking to rental restrictions.

In multi-story condominium

buildings, they may (and hopefully do) prohibit certain flooring surfaces. CC&Rs will also usually address what the HOA maintains and repairs and what is homeowner’s responsibility. CC&Rs are amendable through a vote of the membership. However, the stated percentage of votes required for amendments is usually high, making amendments more difficult.

Bylaws: Bylaws usually contain the association’s governance procedures and cover basic corporate operations, such as annual meetings, board powers and limitations, voting procedures, officer’s roles, and director qualifications. Bylaws are not normally recorded, so there is no government source for replacement copies. Bylaws are amended by membership voting, but in recent years have also been ”amended” legislatively by several changes in the applicable laws.

Operating rules: At the bottom of the hierarchy are the association’s operating rules, sometimes known simply as “rules,” “house rules,” or “regulations”. These are adopted or amended by the board and must be written. Members must be notified of most rule changes before adoption, and changes are not effective until distributed to the membership in written form.

If members would carefully read their governing documents prior to taking ownership it would prevent so many surprises and misunderstandings and improve their experience in their HOA.

Kelly G. Richardson

CCAL is a Fellow of the College of Community Association Lawyers and Senior Partner of Richardson Ober LLP, a California law firm known for community association advice. Submit column questions to kelly@ roattorneys.com. Past columns at www.HOAHomefront. com. All rights reserved®.

Domestic Violence Concerns Ahead of Vote on Gun Measure

By Desert Star Staff

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and advocates in Iowa are especially alarmed about what comes up in a few weeks: a proposed gun rights amendment on the November ballot.

It is a question of whether “strict scrutiny” language should be added to Iowa’s constitution in establishing the right to keep and bear arms. Opponents say it would make it easier to overturn common-sense gun laws, including prohibiting someone convicted of a misdemeanor domestic violence offense or subject to a protective order from having a firearm.

Lindsay Pingel, director of community engagement for the Iowa Coalition Against Domestic Violence, said such individuals should not possess guns.

“It doesn’t necessarily have to mean that the firearm even has to be used to cause harm,” Pingel pointed

out. “A person who harms might never fire that weapon at their victim, but they might use it to terrorize them.”

She noted it includes pointing it at the victim or threatening to kill themselves. Supporters of the proposed Amendment stressed Iowa is one of only six states that do not have a right to bear arms in its constitution. They added their approach is in response to the legal upholding of broader gun restrictions in the U.S., arguing backers of the laws have been able to work around the 2nd Amendment.

Matt Sinovic, executive director of Progress Iowa, another group opposed to the ballot question, said in Missouri, one of the states adopting “strict scrutiny” language, a case saw some success by leaning on the argument.

“It really will depend on the court and their interpretation of this because it is so new,”

Sinovic explained. “Nothing would prevent that from happening here in Iowa.”

The ballot question comes after a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling expanding the right to carry firearms in public. In addition, a current state report noted Iowa has seen 12 domestic violence fatalities in the

first eight months of 2022. And Pingel feels there are more dangerous situations where a weapon is present, not on the radar of police or service providers.

“We know that for every victim that we hear about that is reporting a crime, or we, unfortunately, hear about after a tragedy,

there’s always so many more who aren’t reporting what is happening to them,” Pingel emphasized.

Disclosure: Progress Iowa contributes to our fund for reporting on Budget Policy & Priorities, Environment, Health Issues, and Social Justice.

LaSalle Clinics Urge Women to Get a Breast Cancer Screening

“Women should not take chances. Every woman should get an annual breast cancer screening. Because October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, now is the perfect time to schedule an exam,” said LaSalle Medical Associates CEO Dr. Arteaga.

“Once she was diagnosed, she was a good patient, followed her doctors’ orders, and participated fully in her treatment. Cancer metastasized to her brain, and she was able to beat that. Nevertheless, in the end, it spread to her liver, and that was the end.”

When asked what he would say to women about this tragic disease, Dr. Arteaga said, “Stop living in denial! Instead, make an appointment to see your physician at the first sign of a lump. Moreover, make it a habit to get screened every October when breast cancer awareness month comes around, which is a good way to remember it is time for a routine mammogram.”

By Desert Star Staff REDLANDS, CALIF.

LaSalle Medical Associates encourages women to come for breast cancer screening during October, which is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. “ October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an annual campaign to raise awareness about the impact of breast cancer.,” said the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc

The National

Comprehensive Cancer

Network says mammograms should start at 40 for women at average risk but before40 for women with a higher risk profile, such as a genetic mutation, family history, a benign breast disease diagnosis, or radiation therapy to the chest at a young age.

“Women should not take chances. Every woman should get an annual breast cancer screening.

Because October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month,

now is the perfect time to schedule an exam,” said LaSalle Medical Associates CEO Dr. Albert Arteaga.

Dr. Arteaga himself lost a younger sister to breast cancer when she was in her 40s. “There were three of us,” said Dr. Arteaga. “Our youngest sister never opened up to tell either her older sister or me both of us being doctors—that she had a lump on her breast. Later we learned that she kept making excuses about it, ‘I

bumped myself’ or ‘It is just a bruise,’ and she ignored it for over six months.

“She was in her early 40s, and unfortunately, the disease spreads more rapidly in younger women than it does in women past menopause due to female hormones that promote growth. Our family had no history of cancer, and she was otherwise healthy. Unfortunately, however, she died at 48 years, six months, and 28 days.

LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc. clinics accept Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Molina, Care 1st, Health Net, and Inland Empire Health Plan coverage, as well as Medicare Medi-Cal and cash.

For more information or to make an appointment call the office closest to you: Fontana (909) 8234454; San Bernardino17th Street (909) 887-6494; San Bernardino Mt. Vernon Ave. (909) 884-9091; Rialto (855) 349-6019; and Hesperia(760) 947-2161.

Microblade and Permanent Makeup Training

By Jackie Devereaux

Palm Desert, CA - If you’re struggling to find a good job and want an amazing new career, then this exciting and affordable educational program may be just for you.

The Scar Treatment Recovery Center announces new classes are now available for vocational training in microblade eyebrows, permanent makeup tattooing for eyebrows, eyeliner and lips, tattoo removal, and other procedures. These state-of-the-art classes are in the field of Dermagraphic Technician Training, which includes Permanent Cosmetic Application, Micro-Pigmentation, Scar and Tattoo Removal, as well as Micro-Pen Needling

for wrinkle removal.

After a student graduates from their course, they have the accredited certification in blood-borne pathogen cosmetic and tattooing, permitting the health department to perform these services. These new classes will be held in sessions that run eight weeks long and are followed by 100 hours of in-clinic internships.

Inquire and register at the Scar Treatment Recovery Center located at 74-361 Highway 111, Suites 1 & 2 in Palm Desert inside the Deep Canyon Square Building, or call 760-340-1136. Payment plans are available. If you qualify through the PACE Department at College of the Desert, The Work Investment Act (WIA) will pay for your tuition,

all equipment, and books.

Owner and CEO of the Scar Treatment Recovery Center, Guadalupe Ponte, has been a licensed instructor with the College of the Desert through the PACE Program for Permanent Cosmetics and Microblading for the past eight years. Ponte has more than 20 years of experience teaching and training people in this exciting and rewarding career. Riverside County also contracts Ponte for tattoo removal services for the past five years. This is authentic training. Don’t be fooled by imitators. “Somebody can show you how to do something, but Ponte shows you how to be successful with lifelong skills that will change your life.”

5 Steps for Women to Reduce Their Risk of COPD

By Desert Star Staff

If you’re a woman who tries to stay healthy, you may exercise several times per week, watch what you eat, and get 7-9 hours of sleep each night. But are you listening to your lungs?

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a leading cause of disability and death in the United States, takes a hefty toll on women. You may think problems like shortness of breath, frequent coughs, or wheezing are just signs of aging, but paying attention to these symptoms and discussing them with your doctor is essential.

COPD is a severe lung disease that causes breathing problems and worsens over time. It has often been considered a man’s disease. Yet more U.S. women than men have been diagnosed with COPD in the past decade, and over the past 20 years, more women have died from it, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Women tend to develop COPD earlier in life than men and are more likely to have severe symptoms and be hospitalized with the disease. The good news? According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, you can take steps to reduce your risk for COPD.

Don’t Smoke: You probably already know cigarette smoking is harmful –but did you know that women may be more vulnerable to the effects of smoking? Women who smoke tend to get COPD at younger ages and smoke fewer cigarettes than men. Unfortunately, COPD is the leading cause of death among U.S. women smokers.

If you do smoke, it’s never too late to quit. If you

thought vaping was a healthy alternative to smoking, think again. Researchers are still learning about the long-term health effects of e-cigarettes, but they may contain as many, if not more, harmful chemicals as tobacco cigarettes.

Avoid Pollutants: Among people with COPD who have never smoked, most are women. Women may be more vulnerable to indoor and outdoor air pollution. Women’s smaller lungs and airways mean the same amount of inhaled pollutants may cause more damage.

Working in places like nail salons, hair salons, or dry cleaners can expose you to harmful chemicals. If you’re exposed to chemical fumes at work, talk to your employer about ways to limit exposure. Better ventilation and wearing a mask can help.

Stay Current on Vaccines: People at risk for COPD are more likely to have serious problems resulting from vaccinepreventable diseases. Ask a healthcare provider about getting vaccinated against the flu, pneumococcal disease, and COVID-19.

Talk to Your Doctor About COPD: When the disease is more severe, women with COPD tend to be diagnosed later than men, and treatments are less effective. If you think you could be at risk or have symptoms, bring it up with your healthcare provider. Treatment can ease symptoms and improve your ability to exercise.

Learn More to Breathe Better: Find more information on COPD from NHLBI’s Learn More Breathe Better® program at copd.nhlbi.nih. gov. (Family Features)

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

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Ofelia

helping youth by working for the 4-H Open Campus at Agua Caliente Elementary School in her neighborhood of Dream Homes. She knew that to change the trajectory of poor children getting involved in gangs, she needed to offer recreational activities that caught their attention while instilling a sense of hope and opportunity.

The need for a more prominent organization that offered a safe place for youth to learn and grow was realized when the Boys and Girls Club of Cathedral City opened in 1982. Within a few years, Ofelia became its executive director to further implement its educational and recreational programs.

One of her biggest challenges was too much demand and insufficient space

for all the kids wanting to join.

At the time, the organization’s clubhouse could only hold 80 individuals, and she needed a much bigger building for hundreds of children.

Thanks to her ongoing work, private and corporate donations, and a $250,000 California Youth Advisory grant, a new gymnasium and youth center was built in 1993 on Whispering Palms Drive, where the Club operates today. The new facility allowed hundreds of children to participate in afterschool and summer programs.

Ofelia Bringas continued being the executive director of the Boys and Girls Club of Cathedral City well into her early 70s, finally retiring in 2003.

The bridge itself has already improved safety on Cathedral Canyon with a new 4-lane all-weather bridge over the Whitewater River. This low-water crossing would

Palm Springs House Party

Continued from Page 1

from foster care with no place to go. They have gotten homes to give these kids a place to go. The homes provide care, education, counseling, and a place to transition into society. They house 18 to 21 years old kids to get them off the streets. They provide safety and stability and also education to help them find jobs.

Debby Boone was scheduled to perform but canceled at the last minute when she contacted Covid. She was sorry to cancel but said she would be

“Country My Way” Jann Browne

By Desert Star Staff Jam on the Rocks Productions proudly presents The Art of Music at Old Town Artisan Studios. Inspired by the mission of OTAS, this music series fuses performance with a conversation, education, and storytelling. Designed to meet our community’s diverse and creative interests, attendees can enjoy a variety of music genres and entertainment performances. Each presentation will focus on an element of musical theory, history, genre, or style by featuring expert musicians that share their craft. Join us in our intimate venue, all while supporting the music and outreach programs here at our campus!

October

6:00

Tickets: $10 - $50

Meet the Artist: Jann Browne

A singer/songwriter whose diverse body of work has embraced both retro-styled honky tonk and tough, bluesy lyrical introspections. Jann Browne is an artist with the talent to craft a mainstream success — and the guts and integrity to walk away from Nashville when she grew uncomfortable with the music industry. She was selected by The California Country Music Association as “Entertainer of the Year” two years in a row. In addition, she was a nominee by the Academy of Country Music as “Female Vocalist of the Year.” Jann toured as female lead singer with Grammy award-winning “Asleep at the Wheel,” and now her current band takes

her worldwide. Her live show consists of high-energy alt and traditional country,

edgy bluegrass and rock, and melodically beautiful ballads that showcase her

performing again soon in the Desert. Finally, cat Lyn Day, aka Marilyn Monroe’s personator, came to sing Happy Birthday to some lucky birthday guests.

Ken Henderson and Joe Seiler spoke to the crowd about how the money raised tonight will all go to Sanctuary Palm Springs. They said they have been working for 28 years to help many organizations. They have gotten over 1000 performers to donate their talents at this event. There was a whole room dedicated to the silent auction items. Guests were asked to make donations too.

pure vocal talent. Don’t miss the opportunity to hear one of country music’s genuine and authentic voices!

https://planbrecords. com/jann-browne

frequently be closed to through traffic during heavy rains. This bridge resolves that issue

for the many residential and commercial neighborhoods north of the Whitewater River.

It improves traffic safety and accessibility, and traffic flow. Source: Pam Price

DeeAnn Hopings, Chair, Public Arts Commission, Sunshine Herrera, Public Arts Commission

Kellee McQuinn- DJ MOD GIRL with Homeowners Steve Knill and Don Kraft. Photo by Pat Krause

Avocado Industry AnalysisService Standards

By Desert Star Staff

A favorite fruit across the country, avocados provide plenty of smiles for those who enjoy their fresh flavor as an ingredient in recipes or on their own as a better-for-you snack.

However, their taste isn’t the only benefit. According to

the Avocado Institute, Mexican Hass Avocados contribute to national and state economies in major ways. In fact, the thriving industry results in $11.2 billion in U.S. economic output while creating 58,299 U.S. jobs.

Americans aren’t the only ones who stand to benefit;

78,000 direct and permanent jobs are created in Mexico along with 300,000 indirect and seasonal jobs, adding a touch of goodness to both nations.

(Family Features)

To find out more about the avocado industry, visit avocadoinstitute.org.

Amid Holiday Hiring, Postal Unions Fight for Service Standards

By Desert Star Staff

The U.S. Postal Service said it hires 28,000 seasonal employees ahead of the surge in end-of-year holiday letters and packages, including some in California.

The Postal Service has also added almost 250 new processing machines.

Rick Ruiz, president of the American Postal Workers Union Local 4635 in California, said the union wants more people hired as postal support employees with government benefits.

“They come in at about $19 an hour,” Ruiz pointed out. “But the goal is at the end of the two years; you’re a career employee with your 401(k), your health benefits, retirement and life insurance; all the benefits that you need

as a working person out here to buy that house, buy that car, have that vacation.”

Ruiz noted that employees are vested in the Postal Service and qualify for retirement after just five years. The Postal Service workforce includes 655,000 people, 100,000 of whom have transitioned from part-time to full-time since January last year.

It all comes against Postmaster Louis DeJoy’s 10-year plan, introduced last year, to put the Postal Service on a firmer financial footing.

Ruiz stressed he has reservations because the plan raised postage rates, cut business hours at many post-office locations, and increased the time it takes for mail to be delivered.

“With the 10-year plan,

I’m concerned that the service standards will diminish,” Ruiz asserted. “I don’t think this plan is well-thought-out. I think that they’re looking at saving money, which I understand, but you have to be more efficient in defense of service.”

Peter Rachleff, labor historian and co-executive director of the East Side Freedom Library in St. Paul, Minnesota, who follows trends at the Postal Service and other major employers, said in his view, the Postal Service expansion needs to be managed. Hence, it benefits both the agency and its union workers.

“The Gen-X’ers who are organizing realize that there is no such thing as ‘the pendulum,’ which will swing back in their favor,”

Rachleff emphasized. “The only way to make a better future for themselves is by organizing and pushing.”

People who want to apply for Postal Service jobs can start online at usps.com/hiring.

Disclosure: The American Postal Workers Union contributes to our fund for reporting on Consumer Issues and Livable Wages/ Working Families.

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Helping Teens Develop Financial Literacy

By Desert Star Staff

Developing financial knowledge and effective money management habits are essential stepping stones for teenagers to become financially stable adults who aspire to build assets and achieve personal goals.

For example, most teens (88%) would like to own a home someday, according to a survey conducted by Wakefield Research on behalf of Junior Achievement USA and Fannie Mae. The study of 1,000 teens ages 13-17 in the United States found most (85%) believe “owning a home” is part of “the good life,” compared to nearly as many adults (87%). However, fewer than half (45%) could correctly identify the definition of a home mortgage, and 76% said they lacked a clear understanding of credit scores.

“There’s been this theme that younger Americans aren’t interested in homeownership, but the survey results contradict that assumption,” said Jack E. Kosakowski, president, and CEO of Junior Achievement USA. “Teens appear interested in owning a home someday but seem to realize they need more information on how to do it.”

To help teens gain a better understanding of the

financial decisions they’ll face in adulthood, consider these standard terms.

Credit Score: While nearly all teens (96%) believe credit scores play an essential role in the ability to purchase a home, approximately 3 in 4 (76%) said they understood credit scores only “somewhat,” “a little,” or “not at all.” A credit score is a number from 300-850 based on a number of factors, including credit history, open accounts, total debt, repayment history, and more. Lenders use credit scores to evaluate a person’s ability to repay loans.

A person’s credit score may also determine the size of a down payment needed when purchasing a smartphone or home or the deposit required for renting property or obtaining utilities and may impact interest rates and credit limits on credit cards. Generally, scores below 620 may require paying a higher rate, a shorter repayment term, or a co-signer. Codes of 700 or higher are considered more favorable to creditors and may result in lower interest rates, while scores above 800 typically provide the most benefits to consumers.

Mortgage: While a slight majority of white teens (52%)

correctly identified the definition of a mortgage, only around a quarter (26%) of Black teens and fewer than half (41%) of Hispanic or Latino teens could do so. A mortgage is a loan used to purchase or maintain a home, land, or other real estate types. The borrower makes a down payment for a portion of the purchase price and then borrows the rest from a lender. The borrower then repays the lender over several years – typically 15-30 – via regular payments divided into principal (the money initially borrowed) and interest, with

the property as security.

Nearly all teens surveyed (97%) thought it would be helpful if schools offered lessons that explained homeownership, including mortgages. In response, Fannie Mae is supporting the development and deployment of Junior Achievement learning experiences for thousands of students annually in various age groups by integrating relevant content from its HomeView homeownership course materials and resources, which are designed with firsttime homebuyers in mind.

“Young people today are the homebuyers of tomorrow,” said Jeffery Hayward, executive vice president and chief administrative officer of Fannie Mae. “By providing them access to quality, foundational education now, Fannie Mae and Junior Achievement are helping these future homeowners prepare for the mortgage and homebuying process when they’re ready to take that step.” Visit ja.org for more tips and information to help teens improve their financial knowledge and reach their goals. Family Features

Lawsuit Goes to Court Alleging Cell Phones Cause Brain Tumors

By Desert Star Staff

Evidentiary hearings are underway in a Washington, D.C., courtroom this week to decide if a massive lawsuit against the cellphone industry will be allowed to go to trial.

Multiple families are suing most major wireless companies and their trade association, asking for hundreds of millions in damages, claiming cellphone use causes brain tumors.

Monique Solomon Martinazzi, a plaintiff whose husband Andy passed away at age 43, said he had a brain tumor that developed right where he used to hold his cellphone.

“When cellphones first came out, he got one of the original battery-held Motorolas,” Solomon Martinazzi recounted. “And it was held to his ear 6-7 hours a day. He was in commercial real estate. And we just felt so strongly that was the reason the brain tumor developed where it did.”

The industry trade association and Motorola did not immediately respond to a request for comment, but they have said their products are safe and comply with all government standards.

The lawsuit claims the Federal Communications Commission standards are outdated and points to a government study showing exposure to cellphone

radiation can cause brain and heart tumors in rats.

Industry lawyers argued in court if cellphones caused cancer, we’d be seeing an epidemic of tumors.

Ellie Marks, founder of the California Brain Tumor Association and another plaintiff whose husband Allan has had two brain surgeries, said the industry and the government ignore the evidence.

“There is a rise in primary brain tumors, especially gliomas, especially in the younger population,” Marks pointed out. “These tumors used to only be seen in those over 65. Now we’re seeing people in their 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, perishing from this.”

The families are claiming wrongful death, personal injury, and loss of consortium.

Dr. Joel Moskowitz, director of the Center for Family and Community Health in the School of Public Health at the University of California-Berkeley, said if a U.S. court rules cellphone use leads to brain cancer, the implications are enormous.

“It probably would lead to many additional cases being filed by brain cancer victims,” Moskowitz explained. “It also may force our government to finally take this issue seriously.”

In related news, a judge in Canada recently ruled a class-

action lawsuit can go forward against Apple and Samsung. The

plaintiffs claimed cellphones emit levels, and the defendants