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Americorps’ First LGBTQ+ Mentoring Program Helps Central Valley Teens see page 8.
Desert Hot Springs, CA PERMIT NO 00005
Friday, September 17, 2021 Vol. 24 No. 73
California ‘Blues’ GOP failed to ax California’s governor By Desert Star Staff According to several media projections, California Governor Gavin Newsom has emerged victorious from
a special recall election, meaning the state executive first elected in 2018 will remain in office after a contentious campaign.
With more than 64% of the votes tallied, Newsom was expected to win Tuesday night’s recall race by a wide margin, according to projections by NBC, CBS, CNN and ABC. Addressing supporters
in Sacramento as the final results rolled in, Newson declared victory, saying he is “humbled and grateful to the millions and millions of Californians who exercised their fundamental right to vote, and express themselves
so overwhelmingly by rejecting the division.” Newsom took office following a 62% landslide win in 2018. Still, a segment of state residents Continues on Page 5
Junior Golf as it Should Be- Fun!
By Richard Rowland It’s never been a better time to be a junior golfer in the desert. The Academy at Indian Wells Golf Resort has some exciting additions making it this fall’s premier junior golf program. Along with the introduction of a new director of instruction, PGA certified professional Eric Solander, they have also added the interactive on-course program and app, Operation 36, and this fall is expanding the junior program to include ages 5 and 6 in what they call the Birdie Basics, making The Academy a sensational place to begin or expand the love of golf. First, a little introduction of what Eric Solander brings to the club. Eric is a lifelong golf enthusiast, who is also a Class A PGA professional, a
level 3 instructor with The First Tee, and also recently was awarded the 2020 PGA Youth Development Award- Desert Chapter. He was also the 2019 IW Pro-Am Champion. His mentors include Bob Veroulis, Phil Rodgers, Ken Venturi, Dr. Craig Farnsworth, Mike Wilson, and many playing professionals. His philosophy as an instructor stresses personal development, fun, and teaching a game that can be enjoyed for life. And speaking of fun, the addition of the national Operation 36 on-course program (for both adults and kids) is an innovative way to take the basic lessons of full swing, short game, rules, and etiquette taught in the program onto the course. If you have not yet heard of it, Operation 36 provides a structured program
while tracking progress and “leveling up” like an interactive game via the mobile app. It encourages players to Go Play
in a non-intimidating manner where even par becomes an achievable goal for every player at every level, building
confidence. In addition, the system provides feedback and Continues on Page 3
