Pulse of the High Desert #11 - January 2023

11 Myths About Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is a leading cause of death in the United States, and millions of Americans are affected by the disease. It’s important to distinguish the facts from the myths about Alzheimer’s, especially when it comes to finding information online. Read on to learn about common myths surrounding this disease. Read more on page 10

AS WE GROW OLDER WE LOOK BACK ON PREVIOUS

YEARS wishing we had done more in taking care of our health, finances, family, careers and relationships. For those of us running a business in these trying times we try to focus on being successful under very difficult conditions, in our industry, publishing a newspaper, has become a bigger challenge today than ever in the past. Next month we will celebrate our one year anniversary. The struggles have been worth it as we have found a real niche market. Thanks to our readers, advertisers and contributors, as well as our TEAM members for making 2022 a most memorable year. As we look forward to 2023 the future might not be as bright as it could be but that will not deter us from our mission to bring you the best publication possible.

Ending the year we learn that the printing industry is also going through major changes. The one that affects us is that there will no longer be paper stock in the size of our newspaper. The next issue, February, will have a new format or layout. Based on what our printing partners can offer us.

As we move forward we hope you join us as we search out different, and better, ways to provide you with information and news that entertains and benefits you.

Jim Conkle

P O Box 290066 - Phelan, CA 92329-0066 4468 Phelan Road Suite C - Phelan, CA 92371

JAMES CONKLE

Publisher

1 760 617 3991 jim@motherroadenterprises.com

JORGE LEANDRO RODRIGUES

Graphic Designer 55 16 99991 0229 leandro@motherroadenterprises.com

LEN NORDMANN

Artist

1 951 678 5555

Lennord@motherroadenterprises.com

LORI WESTON

1 760 680 9472

Lori@motherroadenterprises.com

PULSE OF THE HIGH DESERT

TIFFANIE WILLIAMS

1 442 364 4884 Tiffanie@pulseofthehughdesert.com

TOM SCHIBUSCH

1 760 559 9403 tom@motherroadenterprises.com

BILL BAILEY

1 760 995 5024 bill@motherroadenterprises.com

PULSE OF THE LOW DESERT PULSE OF THE HIGH DESERT

LUCERNE VALLEY EDITION

RUSTY LAGRANGE

1 760 646 2661 rusty@motherroadenterprises.com

Fraud reports and losses: Not just a grandparent’s story

By Bridget Small ~ Consumer Education Specialist

YOU MIGHT HAVE HEARD THAT SCAMS mostly affect older adults, but reports to the FTC tell a different story. Last year, adults under 60 — our Gen X, Millennial, and Gen Z neighbors — were more likely to report losing money to fraud than people 60 and over. And what did they report the most? Losing money to online shopping fraud, often when things pitched to them on social media never arrived.

Compared to older adults, those under 60 were more than four times as likely to report losing money on an investment scam, often a fake cryptocurrency investment opportunity, and more than five times as likely to report losing money to a job scam. Many college students reported losing money to phony job offers sent to their school email addresses. Overall, adults under 60 most often reported losing money to scams that started on social media, a website, or an app, and their median reported fraud loss was $500.

People over 60 were less likely to report losing money to fraud, but their reported losses were higher. The median reported

loss was $800 among people in their 70s and jumped to $1,500 for people over 80. Older adults were more likely to report losing money to tech support scammers — cons who urge people to pay for unneeded computer repairs — and prize, sweepstakes, and lottery scams that demand payment but never give a prize. About one in four of

the older adults’ loss reports said the scam started with a phone call.

Sharing what you know about scams helps protect people of all ages around you. Learn more at ftc.gov/PassitOn. If you see a scam, report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

HIGH DESERT, CA – According to industry experts, there are over 33 physical problems that will come under scrutiny during a home inspection when your home is for sale. A new report has been prepared which identifies the eleven most common of these problems, and what you should know about them before you list your home for sale.

Whether you own an old home or a brand new one, there are a number of things that can fall short of requirements during a home inspection. If not identified and dealt with, any of these 11 items could cost you dearly in terms of repair. That’s why it’s critical that you read this report before you list your home. If you wait until the building inspector flags these issues for you, you will almost certainly experience costly delays in the close of your home sale or, worse, turn prospective buyers away altogether. In most cases, you can make a reasonable preinspection yourself if you know what you’re looking for, and knowing what you’re looking for can help you prevent little problems from growing into costly and unmanageable ones.

To help homesellers deal with this issue before their homes are listed, a free report entitled “11 Things You Need to Know to Pass Your Home Inspection” has been compiled which explains the issues involved.

Get your free special report NOW to learn how to ensure a home inspection doesn’t cost you the sale of your home.

To order a FREE Special Report

Visit www.YourHomeInspectionPitfalls.com or to hear a brief recorded message about how to order your FREE copy of this report, call toll-free 833-298-4054 and enter 1003. You can call any time, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Get your FREE special report NOW to find out how you can get the most money for your home.

This report is courtesy of www.HighDesertHomeSales.net and GDR Inc. BRE #01524222. c 2022

RAINBOW BASIN

NATURAL AREA

By John Wease

RAINBOW BASIN IS A VERY PICTURESQUE geologic formation and part of the Calico Range. It is located approximately eight miles north of Barstow. It has been designated a National Natural Landmark and is managed by the Bureau of Land Management as the Rainbow Basin Natural Area. The location is off of Irwin Road (not Fort Irwin Road). Turning on the graded dirt road “Fossil Bed Road”, and driving about three miles, the access road to Rainbow Basin is clearly marked. To see Rainbow Basin, take the one-way scenic loop road at the junction.

“Graded dirt road” means the dirt road was graded smooth. The actual condition depends on how cooperative the weather has been, and how many visitors have driven through since it was last graded. Unless there has been a significant rain storm, the roads should be manageable by any car with reasonable ground clearance. The loop road itself is at times very narrow and closed to RV’s and vehicles with trailers.

The five-mile scenic loop road through the canyon has a 15mph posted speed limit. There are many places where you can stop and take photos. Driving slowly, and stopping frequently to take photos, you can easily take two hours to make the loop drive. There

are designated hiking trails for those so inclined. Also, a limitless number of hills to climb for the entertainment of “kids” of all ages.

Fossil Bed Road was named for the well-known, Miocene era fossil beds there. Collecting is prohibited except with a permit. Collecting is generally restricted to university or museum groups with permits. Any fossils found by the public should be left in place and reported to the BLM. Between 19 million and 13 million years ago, camels, mastodons, three-toed horses, rhinoceros, and saber-toothed cats all called the area home.

For those that want to spend more time, Owl Canyon Campground is located at the junction where the one-way loop road begins. It is a semi-primitive BLM campground and costs only $6 per night. Sites have picnic tables and fire rings. There are vault toilets and a limited water supply. It is open to RV’s but there are no hook-ups, or dump facilities. Any trash has to be packed out. It is a popular place for stargazing as it is well away from city lights.

The geological formations and colors appear different at different times of day as shadows change. Much of the loop road is a desert wash, so avoid visits if rain is forecast. The undercut hillsides offer evidence of past flash flooding through the canyon. Summertime visits would require the usual precautions for desert exploring. Carry plenty of water. Always tell someone you are going, and what time you plan to return. Or, better yet, go in a group with more than one vehicle. During the cooler months it is a very enjoyable place to spend some family-friendly time outside. Away from the city, but not too far away. For a few hours, or for the day, a place to enjoy a very scenic local area. And, admission is free.

SWIM

Seniors With Inguiring Minds

Thursday, January 5th Bunny Bushe’y and Carol Warren Topic “Gadgets” Thursday, January 12th Leah McEntee Topic “Rin Tin Tin” Thursday, January 19th Richard Rorex Topic “DAA-POW-MIA” Thursday, January 26th Toni Clegg Topic “Folk Music”

Percy Bakker Community Center, 9333 E Ave Hesperia, CA 92345

Victorville and Hesperia make top 100 Boomtowns in America for 2022

“Moving to a boomtown at its earliest stages can be a great opportunity for entrepreneurs and investors, as there’s still plenty of room for growth. And for those who are looking for a job, there are usually plenty of opportunities available in rapidly growing cities,” says TradingPlatforms Senior Editor Edith Reads.

However, Reads warns that if a city has already reached its peak, it may be too late to get in on the action.

VICTORVILLE CAME IN A TIE WITH RIVERVIEW, FL ranking 13 on the top 100 list. SmartAsset determined that Victorville has an average yearly GDP growth of 1.70%. Over five years, the city has grown 11.18% in population, had an 12.70% increase in businesses and 15.45% increase in housing units.

Hesperia ranked 34 – tied with Lehigh Acres, FL. According to SmartAsset, Hesperia had a 1.70% average yearly GDP growth. Over five years, the city has grown 7.73% in population, had an 12.70% increase in businesses and 8.20% increase in housing units.

Nampa, ID ranked No. 1 with population, incomes and available housing seeing an increase by 16.21%, 43.99% and 22.24%, respectively.

A key finding from the study found that the West and South dominate the top 50 – there isn’t a city outside of those two regions until No. 52 Jersey City, New Jersey.

“The top 10 highest-ranking cities in the West and South perform well for population, business and housing growth and rank in the top quintile across the study,” stated the report.

The report also found that in 22 boomtowns, the housing market grew by more

than 24% in a five year span. Nationally, the number of housing units grew by only 4.75% from 2016 to 2021.

For those looking to relocate to a boomtown, SmartAsset says to consider your timing.

“In this case, it may be wiser to wait until the city’s growth slows down before making the move. This way, you can avoid getting caught in the midst of a housing or job crunch,” said Reads.

Victorville, CA

Hesperia, CA

Rank City

Avg Yearly Population Number of Housing GDP Growth Businesses Units

1 Nampa, ID 5.47% 16.21% 29.57% 22.24%

2 Meridian, ID 3.70% 31.72% 20.02% 39.23% 3

4

5

Murfreesboro, TN 1.64% 19.38% 15.13% 31.47%

New Braunfels, TX 4.33% 36.10% 23.94% 40.86%

Fort Myers, FL 0.87% 19.56% 14.86% 27.65%

6 Conroe, TX 3.90% 14.71% 18.94% 25.30% 7 Menifee, CA 1.29% 20.21% 14.62% 19.70% 8 Pasco, WA 2.93% 17.04% 18.33% 18.77% 9 Lewisville, TX 4.47% 7.81% 22.86% 15.62% 10 Chino, CA 1.70% 5.94% 12.70% 29.89%

11

Port St. Lucie, FL 1.35% 17.50% 19.87% 15.34% 12 Rancho Cordova, CA 1.52% 11.21% 10.28% 17.02% 13

Victorville, CA (Tie) 1.70% 11.18% 12.70% 15.45% 13 Riverview, FL (Tie) 1.91% 28.80% 13.22% 32.51% 15 Homestead, FL −0.33% 18.42% 9.95% 34.83% 16 Fayetteville, AR 1.38% 13.61% 11.69% 29.55% 17 Peoria, AZ 2.70% 18.70% 12.88% 23.30% 18 Roseville, CA 1.59% 14.48% 12.42% 18.05% 19 Denton, TX 4.47% 10.71% 22.86% 21.24% 20 Durham, NC 4.72% 8.54% 8.81% 14.73% 21 Bend, OR 2.58% 12.02% 19.77% 17.36% 22 Boise City, ID 3.70% 6.41% 20.02% 11.45% 23 St. George, UT 3.94% 21.44% 31.20% 22.24% 24 Carmichael, CA 1.52% 28.50% 10.28% 22.66% 25 Goodyear, AZ 2.70% 31.68% 12.88% 34.70% 26 Cedar Park, TX 5.19% 11.10% 26.67% 31.68% 27 Perris, CA 1.29% 4.59% 14.62% 12.79% 28 North Charleston, SC 0.93% 4.74% 13.00% 19.24% 29 Asheville, NC 1.10% 5.58% 14.78% 26.48% 30 Surprise, AZ 2.70% 12.45% 12.88% 12.90% 31 Palm Coast, FL 2.96% 6.24% 17.05% 13.55% 32 Layton, UT 3.66% 10.10% 16.52% 13.29% 33 McKinney, TX 3.30% 17.62% 22.63% 20.52% 34 Lehigh Acres, FL (Tie) 0.87% 9.41% 14.86% 15.68% 34 Hesperia, CA (Tie) 1.70% 7.73% 12.70% 8.20% 36 Manteca, CA 1.99% 11.55% 10.89% 9.89% 37 Chandler, AZ 2.70% 12.93% 12.88% 15.31% 38 Richmond, CA 2.19% 5.31% 7.07% 12.12% 39 Vancouver, WA 2.53% 9.92% 12.76% 18.93% 40 Charleston, SC 2.64% 10.55% 23.32% 14.73% 41 Huntsville, AL 2.62% 9.81% 5.42% 15.91% 42 Frisco, TX 3.30% 28.79% 22.63% 25.94% 43 Ontario, CA 1.70% 2.74% 12.70% 12.31% 44 Denver, CO 2.84% 2.66% 10.39% 12.95% 45 Jurupa Valley, CA 1.29% 3.28% 14.62% 13.03% 46 Sugar Land, TX 2.99% 23.98% 26.63% 27.45% 47 Sacramento, CA 1.52% 6.02% 10.28% 7.50% 48 Round Rock, TX 5.19% 5.48% 26.67% 24.31% 49 San Tan Valley, AZ 3.19% 24.71% 17.41% 4.69% 50 Flower Mound, TX 4.47% 6.94% 22.86% 18.93%

Review for e-bike

and rear metal fenders, the rear rack, the front and rear lights, and everything else that needed to be attached or tightened.

Folding the bike was simple, a lever in the middle of the frame resulted in the bike folding nearly perfectly in two while another lever on the front allowed the handlebars to fold in, making it easy to load the bike into the rear of a vehicle. The bike fit perfectly in the rear section of my Toyota FJ, with room to spare.

The bike does weigh 74 lbs., which puts it at the top of most electric bikes but considering it is for rough riding, the weight should not be a factor in decision making.

The EP-2 Pro has a 960W Peak brushless gear motor, a 48V13ah Lithium Battery, 20” inch fat tires attached to a 20” folding aluminum alloy frame, disc brakes, iron leg shock absorbing front shocks, Shimano derailer, an easy-to-read 48v LCD screen on the handlebars, and so much more.

The top speed is rated at 28mph but when running on smooth pavement I was able to reach 31mph.

There are five levels of peddle assist for the EP-2 Pro and all kick in when certain peddling speeds are reached by the bicyclist.

AS A TRAVEL WRITER, I TRAVEL. That’s what I do, visiting many varied places during those times when I am out and about. Sometimes in the hustle and bustle of large cities and sometimes, other times, as I prefer, in the hinterlands of a desert landscape or on mountain paths.

Traveling the byways, as I do, I am always cognizant of my mode of transportation. Will I need 4-wheel drive to get to a ghost town? Will I need to bring hiking equipment to climb to a vista point? Getting to out-of-the-way places can sometimes be a challenge.

So when I was contacted by ENGWE, manufacturer of various models of folding e-bikes, to see if I would be interested in testing and reviewing the EP-2 Pro Fat Tire Folding Mountain E-Bike, I jumped at the chance.

I had already been planned a trip across the Mojave Desert in Southern California and what better place to put this bike through some serious trials with soft sand, hard packed trails, steep terrain, and all the rest which makes this desert a formidable place for the adventurer?

Running through each assist level, I noticed a distinctive pull as the bike kicked into gear and felt confident that this e-bike would take me pretty much anywhere I was willing to attempt.

The seven-speed Shimano derailer with the convenient set-up on the right handlebar was easy to use and mastered in only a few moments. Shifting was fast, smooth, and kept in the sprocket no matter the ground I was traveling over or how I may have manually shifted the peddle assist in various locales.

Distance is rated at 50 miles, depending on speed and terrain. One afternoon the bike took me over a little more than twenty-five miles over rough desert roads. There were still a couple of bars left on the battery indicator, so this e-bike is good for at least 35 miles or more with an average sized rider atop it – again, depending on the traveling surface.

Overall, the EP-2 was more than I had expected. Great looks with its rugged black exterior, handling any terrain I put to it and appearing ready for any adventure.

For the price of roughly $1,000 makes this outdoor E-Bike more than reasonable for anyone wishing to pursue the great outdoors, be that city or country.

I advised the marketing rep to send the bike as though it had just been purchased by a customer. It arrived in a large cardboard box delivered to my residence.

What impressed me from the start was the way in which it was packaged. Styrofoam comforted every inch of the bike. There was not one scratch or damaged piece to be seen. It was a unique experience not to have to think of returning a damaged item.

The directions which came with the bike were clear and concise. It took a little more than a half hour to make the bike complete. A tool kit was supplied which was useful for attaching the front

No issue carrying E-bike Easily folds to fit into rear of most vehicles

Importance of Activity for Seniors!

(Physical, Social & Mental)

PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES PROVIDE THE FOUNDATION for all other forms of senior wellness. A sedentary lifestyle during the senior years can lead to greater susceptibility to injury, higher incidence of obesity, cardiovascular problems, and several other serious diseases. Oppositely, persons who continue to stay active into their senior years decrease the risk of these adverse conditions. Additionally, senior physical activity decreases the risk of stroke, cancers, type 2 diabetes, depression, and dementia. It also arrests the deterioration of overall health and allows seniors to maintain their independence longer. Here are a few guidelines to follow for senior physical activities: Seniors should participate in approximately 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week, For additional benefits, the total time of moderate aerobic activity can be increased to 300 minutes per week. Seniors who experience mobility problems should engage in physical activity at least 3 times a week to improve balance and prevent falls. Seniors should engage in muscle strengthening exercises at least 2 times per week.

Elderly activities with a social focus are also crucial to overall wellness, especially for the maintenance of a meaningful and satisfying life. Without consistent social interaction, seniors can experience a variety of distressing conditions, including debilitating loneliness, depression, and an increased risk of dementia. On the other hand, when seniors consistently engage in social activities, they experience significant improvements in their physical, mental, and emotional health outcomes. Much of this improvement results from the ability to maintain healthy relationships and a continued sense of being part of society. Volunteer opportunities are especially beneficial in this regard, as the experience of helping others enhances the meaning of seniors’ lives and provides much needed stimulation. Lunch clubs, dances, and social centers also deliver enormous benefits to these life areas. The key is staying involved. This means continuing to participate actively in the lives of others in both an individual and a group setting. A healthy social life also requires that seniors allow others to have meaningful access to their lives as well. It’s only through this level

of reciprocity that elderly persons can continue to experience emotional wellness.

There is no doubt that human beings must continue to receive intellectual stimulation over the entire course of their lives if they are to achieve and maintain a fulfilling and unimpaired life. Continued mental activity improves the quality of all life areas. By having a variety of salutary effects on the physical state of the brain, mental activity improves reasoning abilities, memory, and the ability to continue to learn.

Activities that engage the mental faculties are also incredibly helpful to overall senior wellness, especially in preventing or slowing the progress of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. The variety of helpful activities is wide enough to accommodate many individual preferences and includes painting, crafts, exercise classes, workshops, & even lunches. Senior Kicks Club in Apple Valley and Barstow offers all of the classes to keep our Seniors Active! It’s free to join the club. Call Today for calendar of events and invitations. 760.338.0914 SeniorKicksClub.com, Info@SeniorKicksClub.com or Like Senior Kicks Club on Facebook.

11 Myths

About Alzheimer’s Disease

ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE IS A LEADING CAUSE OF DEATH IN THE UNITED STATES , and millions of Americans are affected by the disease. It’s important to distinguish the facts from the myths about Alzheimer’s, especially when it comes to finding information online. Read on to learn about common myths surrounding this disease.

1. Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are the same thing

worried about developing it as you get older. A person’s chance of developing Alzheimer’s is higher if they have certain genetic variants that can be passed down from a parent. However, just because a biological parent has Alzheimer’s does not mean that their children will develop it.

Share this infographic and help spread the word about understanding different types of dementia.

People often use the terms Alzheimer’s disease and dementia interchangeably, but there is a difference. Dementia refers to impaired memory, thinking, reasoning, and behavior, and Alzheimer’s is just one type of dementia. The terms are likely confused because Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia and the most well-known. But there are other types of dementia, too, including Lewy body dementia, frontotemporal dementia, and vascular dementia.

Learn more about dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

2. I will develop Alzheimer’s disease if my parent has it

If a parent or close relative has Alzheimer’s disease, you may be

Alzheimer’s disease is complex, and scientists don’t yet fully understand what causes it in most people. Research suggests that in most individuals, a host of factors beyond genetics play a role in the development and course of the disease. Environmental and lifestyle factors, such as exercise, diet, exposure to pollutants, and smoking may also affect a person’s risk for Alzheimer’s. Although we don’t yet know how to prevent Alzheimer’s, it’s important to practice healthy behaviors throughout your lifetime, such as exercising regularly and eating a balanced diet.

Learn more about Alzheimer’s disease genetics.

3. Only people in their 70s and older get Alzheimer’s disease

While the greatest known risk factor for Alzheimer’s is age, that does not mean that only older adults develop it. For most people with Alzheimer’s, it’s true that symptoms first appear in their mid-60s or beyond. However, some people experience symptoms earlier, even as young as their 30s. When a person develops Alzheimer’s between their 30s and mid-60s, it’s called early-onset Alzheimer’s.

Read and share this infographic and help spread the word about Alzheimer’s genetics.

Early-onset Alzheimer’s is rare — representing less than 10% of people with Alzheimer’s. Developing Alzheimer’s earlier in life can present specific challenges. People diagnosed at younger ages may be more likely to be raising children who are still at home or managing work and having to apply for disability than those who are diagnosed at older ages.

Many people with Down syndrome, a genetic condition, will also develop Alzheimer’s at an earlier age and may begin to show symptoms in their 40s.

Learn more about the causes of Alzheimer’s disease.

4. Alzheimer’s disease symptoms are normal as we get older

Many people become more forgetful as they age, and some forgetfulness, such as losing things from time to time, is normal. However, common signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s, such as making poor judgments and decisions a lot of the time, having problems recognizing friends and family, or losing track of the date or time of year are not a normal part of aging.

If you are worried about your memory or other possible Alzheimer’s symptoms, talk with your doctor. The doctor may ask questions about your health history, perform assessments of your thinking and memory, and carry out medical tests to determine your diagnosis.

Learn more about the signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.

5. There are no treatments available for people with Alzheimer’s disease

There has been significant progress toward developing better treatments for people with Alzheimer’s. Several medications are available that can help treat people with Alzheimer’s disease. There are also coping strategies to help manage behavioral symptoms. While there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, thanks to scientific advances, research has never been more promising. In total, NIA is funding hundreds of clinical trials including both drug and nondrug interventions. These include testing treatments that target behavior and lifestyle factors as well as underlying causes of the disease.

6. If I’m frequently forgetting things, it must be Alzheimer’s disease

Even though memory problems are typically one of the first signs of Alzheimer’s, not all memory problems mean a person has the disease. Some forgetfulness is normal as we age.

Talk with your doctor to determine whether the memory changes you’re noticing are normal or may be a sign of something more serious. In some cases, depression or medication side effects can cause memory and other thinking problems. With treatment, it may be possible to reverse some memory problems due to these reasons.

Learn more about what’s normal memory loss and what’s not.

7. You can buy supplements online to prevent or cure Alzheimer’s disease

There are many websites and advertisements that promise certain supplements can effectively treat or cure diseases such as Alzheimer’s. In some cases, these may seem reliable, offering advice on healthy aging and Alzheimer’s to gain people’s trust and

Learn more about how Alzheimer’s disease is treated and where to find Alzheimer’s clinical trials.

promote their products. However, there is no scientific evidence backing these claims, and currently, no supplement has been proven to delay, prevent, treat, or cure Alzheimer’s.

Talk with your doctor before taking any supplements or trying any other new treatments.

Find tips to help determine whether an online health information article is reliable.

8. You can prevent Alzheimer’s disease

There is no proven way to prevent Alzheimer’s. However, there are steps you can take to help reduce your risk for this disease. A risk factor is something that may increase a person’s chance of developing a disease. Some risk factors can be controlled, while others, such as the genes you inherit, cannot.

In general, leading a healthy lifestyle may help reduce risk factors that have been associated with Alzheimer’s and other age-related health problems. These include:

• Controlling high blood pressure

• Maintaining a healthy weight

• Staying mentally and physically active

• Preventing head injury

• Sleeping seven to nine hours each night

Learn more about reducing your risk for Alzheimer’s disease and what we know about preventing Alzheimer’s.

10. An at-home genetic test can tell me if I have (or will have) Alzheimer’s disease

You may have heard about at-home genetic tests. These tests extract DNA from a person’s saliva and provide reports of the genetic data. It’s important to note that no genetic test can diagnose Alzheimer’s disease. Genetic tests can identify certain rare genetic variants that cause early-onset Alzheimer’s, as well as genetic variants that increase a person’s risk for the disease. FDA has approved one of these tests for at-home use. This test shows if a person carries a form of the APOE gene, APOE ε4. People with this variant are at an increased risk for Alzheimer’s, but it does not mean that they will definitely develop the disease.

Talk with your doctor about these types of genetic tests. You also may want to schedule an appointment with a genetic counselor to help you consider whether a test is right for you and to understand the results.

Learn more about Alzheimer’s disease genetics.

11. I’m not a scientist. I can’t do anything to help fight Alzheimer’s disease

CT scan alzheimers diseaseBefore researchers developed biomarker tests in the early 2000s, the only sure way to know whether a person had Alzheimer’s disease was through autopsy, a procedure that is performed after death. Now, lab and imaging tests are available to help a doctor or researcher see the biological signs of the disease in a living person. For example, it is now possible for doctors to order a blood test to measure levels of beta-amyloid, a protein that accumulates abnormally in people with Alzheimer’s. Several other blood tests are in development. However, the availability of these tests is still limited. NIA-supported research teams continue to study options for faster, less-expensive, and less-invasive ways to diagnose Alzheimer’s. Learn more about biomarkers and Alzheimer’s detection and research.

Even if you are not a scientist, there are many ways that you can help advance Alzheimer’s disease research! Volunteers participating in clinical trials and studies have led to meaningful advancements in the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of Alzheimer’s. By joining a trial or study, you become a partner in helping researchers advance their knowledge toward effective diagnostics, treatments, and preventions. All types of volunteers are needed, including people living with dementia, caregivers, and healthy volunteers.

As a family member or friend of a person living with Alzheimer’s, you can also help by offering support, such as learning tips for communication or finding suitable activities. You can also offer help by supporting caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s or a related dementia.

Learn more about participating in Alzheimer’s disease research and where to find a clinical trial.

This content is provided by the NIH National Institute on Aging (NIA). NIA scientists and other experts review this content to ensure it is accurate and up to date.

9. Doctors cannot definitively diagnose someone with Alzheimer’s disease until after death

The Cushenbury population of Bighorn Sheep still favor the Mitsubishi Cement plant as a place to roam, as evidenced by a sighting of seven ewes (adult females). “Bighorn were drinking water from a large puddle west of the ball sorter (machine),” Environmental Specialist Alfonso Ruiz Jr. wrote in the observation record notes.

The plant has established wildlife water sources, as well as re-vegetated grazing areas. Ruiz snapped several photos of the ewes when he spotted them just after noon on Nov. 15. Each sighting is reported to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, which monitors the sheep.

Although not listed as endangered, desert bighorn sheep are considered a sensitive species in California and are protected under state law. The species is extremely sensitive to disease, therefore the separation between domestic livestock and bighorn is the key to keeping them safe and recovering their population, according to the National Wildlife Federation.

Bighorn Sheep recently spotted at Cushenbury Plant

Photos captured by Alfonso Ruiz Jr. on Nov. 15 at the Cushenbury plant.

Fullerton Arboretum

ACCORDING TO NIKA, GUARDIAN TO THE ENTRANCE OF THE FULLERTON ARBORETUM , a lot of people visit the 26-acre site where lots and lots of plants grow.

I’m not a botanist, but I know when I see lots of plants.

“During the week, we get dozens of people taking walks, jogging or studying specific plants for a class at the university,” Nika said.

The arboretum is located on the northeast corner of the California State University, Fullerton.

Sure enough, as I was chit-chatting a moment with Nika, a woman jogged by pushing those three-wheeled contraptions that always looked perilous to me.

Give me four tires on the ground when I push a baby around. Three wheels – that is an accident waiting to happen.

An older couple strolled by holding hands – it was sweet.

“During the weekends, we really get crowded,” Nika said.

“How busy?” I asked.

“I don’t have a specific number of people coming here but it is busy. Everyone seems to love this place.”

I bade Nika adieu and wandered down the dirt path into the arboretum.

Walking through an arboretum had not been on my schedule, but I had business to complete in Fullerton and arrived two hours early for my appointment unintentionally.

Driving from the High Desert to Fullerton is approximately 75 miles, and should take an

hour and a half, unless Laureen is driving. Then, perhaps forty-minutes would do the trick.

Any person who has driven south on the Cajon Pass in the last hundred years, realizes that suspected times of travel to a place ‘down the hill’ is merely a suggestion.

“Waze says we’ll be there in thirty minutes,” a friend will tell another friend as they are driving happily along Interstate 15.

Suddenly, red taillights by the millions erupt out of nowhere just at the summit of the Cajon. Waze then reroutes and advises the trip to Rancho Cucamonga now will be three days.

“Are there accidents? A fire ripping across the roadway? A Sasquatch sighting?”

“None of those on the screen.”

“Then what?”

It is a Caltrans mystery.

So, when driving down the Cajon, which I do quite often, I pack an overnight bag, my favorite foods and let Laureen know if I will

be coming back any time soon.

But, on this day – I was two hours early for my appointment.

No traffic along Interstate 15 or 210. What was I to do?

Find someplace I had not visited before. And that is how I found myself at the Fullerton Arboretum.

The concept of the arboretum was conceived by Dr. David Walkington and Dr. Eugene Jones, along with some other staff and students at the university in 1970. It would be a great place for students to study botany and for the locals to enjoy walking through.

An orange grove, on the northern end of the campus, had a disease known as quick decline.

I personally know this disease – occurs each morning as I tumble out of bed.

The grove had once been part of the Gilman Lands.

Richard Hall Gilman came to this part of

Welcome to the Arboretum

Glistening waterfalls at the entrance to the Arboretum

Wide peaceful pathways to meander

Southern California in the 1870s and wanted to be involved in agriculture. The lands he found to be just right for planting citrus were in the vicinity of Placentia.

In 1872, he purchased acreage and five years later planted the first five-acre grove of Valencia oranges.

In fact, he is known as the father of the Placentia citrus industry.

Richard Gilman, along with his wife and four children lived on the lands where he grew the oranges, and it was a happy time for all of them being surrounded by such beauty.

His daughter, Helen, wrote about life there. ‘Pomegranates wound a big horseshoe yard where grass billowed so deeply that children could hardly navigate. Cypress swooped out from the shoe to a willowed ditch, forbidden. It was the terror of every mother living on Placentia Avenue. Dark red roses ran along the walk that centered the yard. Among them were narcissuses that, with the winter rains, set yellow cups to white saucers. In the spring, blue iris joined the roses and peacocks paraded.’

That was some detailed prose, which reminded me of my own yard in the High Desert.

Soon a group of folks formed the Arboretum Committee about creating a wonderful place where people could enjoy the outdoors while also learning about protecting the environment. The effort was noticed by some big mucky-mucks and the committee won a Disneyland Community Service Award.

In 1971, the Associated Student Body started a fund raiser to try and protect the dying orange trees.

The trees were doomed, so they were cut down, roots removed, and a new project began.

This one planned to start organic gardening plots to demonstrate the environmental values of this sort of gardening.

As with most things, the plan enlarged and the current Mission Statement for the arboretum explains it fully:

‘The mission of the Fullerton Arboretum is to support the academic mission of CSUF with a world class living and historical collection and to provide learning opportunities for every stage of life, extending our resources into the local community and around the globe to foster an appreciation for plant conservation, botanical research and horticulture.’

This mission statement is plain to see as I wandered the 26 acres and took in an awesome array of different plants and trees being cared for at the arboretum.

Seems there were hundreds of plants –California Copperleaf, San Diego Ambrosia, False Indigo, Indian Milkweed, Coyote Brush, just to name a few.

And speaking of coyotes. There was a sign

warning the visitor about possible coyotes in the vicinity and what to do if you encounter one.

Being from the High Desert – I scoffed.

There are also a lot of trees to walk beneath – White Sapote, African Yellowwood, Yunnan Wintersweet, Mangrove Date, Oak, and so many more I got tired of craning my neck to look at the height of them all.

Wide dirt paths allow the visitor to saunter within the grounds. Waterfalls pouring over large boulders into a deep and cooling pool. A bubbling creek winds its way through the shade covered grassy knolls where there are ample picnic tables and benches to relax upon.

It was easy to understand why so many locals and non-locals would drive to this oasis within a large suburban area. Though there was a large university next door, the quite of the arboretum was not disturbed.

Large tables were set out with all sorts of scientific equipment next to the potting shed. No one was around so I peaked at what was being studied beneath the microscopes.

I have no idea. Probably something to do with plant life.

But not everything is on the exterior.

There is the OC Agricultural and Nikkei Heritage Museum which has various exhibitions throughout the year that include lectures, photography/art exhibits, guided tours, and the like.

The visitor center where the arboretum’s purpose is discussed through photographs, history writings, quotations from present and past folks who worked there, and maps showing the paths around the site.

A beautiful old home, the Heritage House, is located on the grounds.

It was built in 1894 by Dr. George Crook Clark, one of Fullerton’s pioneer doctors. Originally located at Amerige and Harvard in the center of Fullerton, it was painstakingly

moved to the arboretum in 1972.

The reason? It was going to be demolished for something new and probably 70ish. How gauche.

The home was built in the Eastlake style. I had to look that up.

It was a 19th-century architectural and household design reform movement created by British architect and writer Charles Eastlake. Part of the Victorian period in terms of broad antique furniture designations.

No idea.

In short, it is also referred to as the Queen Anne style. No idea.

I did love the house and the wrap around porch where the doctor probably sat in a reed rocking chair yelling at his patients as they strolled down Harvard Street.

“Yeah, I went to Yale,” he may have wailed. “I just happened to get a good price on this Queen Anne on Harvard.”

The arboretum is a spectacular place to wander and so I did. Past this garden and past that garden showcasing plants and trees from this location to that location from around the globe.

Desert gardens, Australian gardens, Palm tree gardens, and one caught my fancy and that was the Children’s Garden.

Walking beneath an arbor of some sort of plant, I found myself in a place that would be loved by children. Things to walk through. Things to study. And just a great place for the growing mind.

There were also nice benches for parents to rest while their children ran around growing their minds.

My appointment was nearing, and I was disappointed the time was upon me to leave.

This unexpected adventure was more than worthwhile.

For further information visit: https:// fullertonarboretum.org/about.aspx

Dr. Clark’s home and office, 1894

NEWS 4 VETERANS

USMC MOUNTED COLOR GUARD

By John Wease

IRECENTLY HAD THE DISTINCT HONOR OF VISITING THE MOUNTED COLOR GUARD of the Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow. I would like to thank Laurie Pearson, Communications Strategy & Operations Planner, for making my visit possible, and Sgt. Christian Drumheller for taking time to meet with me, answer my questions, and guide me on a most interesting tour of the facilities. As it is the last remaining USMC mounted color guard, we are quite privileged to have them headquartered locally.

The Mounted Color Guard was formed in 1967 by Lt. Col. Robert Lindsay. In 2010, the stable facilities were named in his honor. To honor the long tradition of horse mounted troops, the Mounted Color Guard performs using McClellan saddles. These saddles were adopted in 1859 as the official cavalry saddle, and were used by all horse mounted troops through WWII. The only horse mounted Marines, the China Marines, that served in China in the early 1900’s also used McClellans until they were disbanded in 1938. The McClellan saddle may be traditional and durable, but looks anything

but comfortable.

There are currently seven marines assigned. They are tasked with all manner of care, feeding, and training of the thirteen horses. Although some may have prior horsemanship experience, it is not a requirement. The color guard members

apply, are screened and selected based on their military record, demeanor, ability to work as a team, etc. As they are the face of the USMC at parades and other public events, it is a real honor to be selected. The Marines typically serve there for two to three years.

Most of the horses are obtained through the Bureau of Land Management Wild Horse and Burro Adoption program. Almost all are palominos. Some of these horses are gentled first by prisoners in the Carson City Prison system, near the Nevada range that the mustangs called home. Others came directly from the BLM. Either way, the slow, gentle, training required to make the horses “parade ready” takes from one to two years. It requires a lot of arena work, as well as riding outside the base to accustom the horses to trains, cars, and other loud noises.

The Mounted Color Guard maintains a very busy schedule. They perform at thirty to forty events each year, which keeps the teams on the road thirty to forty weeks out of the year. Horses and riders travel in trucks and trailers all over the country to parades, rodeos, and memorial events. They will once again soon lead the Tournament of Roses Parade. Their thirty-fifth year of leading the parade, they are the only entrants to carry the American flag. Generally, the base commander and base sergeant major lead the team at that event.

Their facilities are quite impressive. In what was the original stable is now their very large tack room. Their performance McClellan saddles on one wall, working western saddles and bridles on the other. One original McClellan from the 1800’s is on display. In the loft area over their office, several rooms are filled with awards and trophies, won in competitions in the past, when competing was allowed by the Department of Defense. Many of the horses perform for many years. Several plaques, with horse shoes and the horse’s name commemorate horses retired due to age or health. A memorial ceremony is held in their honor at their retirement as well. The horses are obviously held in high regard.

Although the original horses were stabled in this barn, the formerly wild mustangs seem quite content in their outdoor paddocks, with sun and wind shelter. They have a large pasture for spring and

summer grazing, as well as a turn out pen to have a space to run and kick up their heels. The horses are obviously well cared for. Most came to greet us as we walked past. All of the horses are named after battles, although all seem to have unofficial, every day, names as well. Names like “Reno” and “Trigger” are a little easier for daily use than “Iwo Jima.”

So, when you watch the Tournament of Roses Parade, pay attention to the Marines carrying The Colors, as usual, in the forefront. Sit up a little straighter, and remember the amount of hard work, and dedication it takes to bring us the pageantry of these formerly wild horses ridden by fine examples of the Few, the Proud, the Marines.

Marcy Taylor’s Musings

THE 2023-2024 OFFICERS of NAACP Branch 1082 were sworn in by Victorville Mayor Debra Jones on Monday Dec. 12, 2022 at the Branch Office in Victorville. Pictured left to right standing are: Executive Board Members Carla Yates, Col. J. Michael Yates, Evelyn Glasper, Ariel Lattimore, Lakiesha Campbell, and Marcy Taylor, and Mayor Debra Jones. Seated are Second Vice President Lizet Angulo, President James Campbell, and Recording Secretary Murial Taylor. Not pictured and sworn in separately

were: First Vice President LaVern Scriven, Assistant Secretary Crystal Stinson, and Treasurer Vere Williams, as well as Executive Board Members Shenell Adams, Frances Flowers, Maude Mitchell, Peggy Moore, and Gloria Roberts, as well as Past Presidents Bill Thomas and RJ Thomas.

The Branch holds monthly meetings open to the public the second Monday of the Month at 6:00 P.M. at the Branch Office 14240 St. Andrews St., Ste. 102, Victorville, Ca. 92395

The Interfaith Thanksgiving Celebration

ONE OF THE MOST MEANINGFUL HOLIDAY events in the High Desert is the yearly Interfaith Council’s Thanksgiving Celebration held the Tuesday of Thanksgiving week at alternating places of worship. After being cancelled the past two years, members of many faiths joyfully came together Nov. 22 at the Center for Spiritual Living in Apple Valley for the 23rd annual event to learn from and celebrate each other. Participants included representatives of the Baha’i faith, Church of Jesus Christ of latter Day Saints, Congregation Bamidbar Shel Ma’alah,

Reform Jewish Congregation, Krishna Valley Temple, Unitarian and Islamic Faiths, and the High Desert Center for Spiritual Living, as well as the Victor Valley Threshold Singers and the Art of Living Foundation.

The program also included several speakers. Mayor Pro Tem Art Bishop made Civic Comments, and Dean Alexander gave a tribute to the victims of the Uvalde, Texas mass shooting. Five members of MHS, themselves representing various religions, were happy to take part in the celebration. The program ended with all in attendance standing

to sing “Let There Be Peace on Earth.” A cookie and punch reception and great fellowship followed. If you missed this year’s event, mark your calendar for the 24th year Tuesday Nov. 21, 2023.