OVER, AND A NEW ONE IS BEGINNING. Out with the old and in with the new. Do you make New Years Resolutions? If you do, do you keep them? I find it best to set my goals a little lower as I have gotten older. In fact, just getting up each day and finding that I, and my family, are in good health and happy is my number one goal. I do make a few silent, ones I will share with you. To be a better person, show my family how much I love and appreciate them and to make each day a Good One.
As many of you know we, the PULSE TEAM, are involved in doing Santa events. This past December we were honored to share the Spirit of Christmas with many groups in our communities. It is a given that young and old enjoy seeing Santa.
Conkle
P O Box 290066 - Phelan, CA 92329-0066 10405 Mountain Road - Piñon Hills, CA 92372
AFTER A BUSY DAY, and somewhat unusual for us, my wife and I went out for supper. After we ate, I suggested we stop and visit the owner of the nearby saloon. We entered to find the few people there were all playing the card game faro. Now, I pride myself on being smarter than I look, and I should have known better, but I sat in on the game. The dealer was an amiable gentleman, the game was fastpaced and enjoyable. It didn’t take long for my small stack of chips to disappear. Later, I learned the faro dealer was none other than the notorious scoundrel, Pico Pistolero. Pico showed up at the saloon some thirteen or fourteen years ago and began dealing faro. His success emboldened him to form a band of bottomdealing cohorts that engage in all manner of skullduggery to separate innocent folks from their hard-earned money. Known locally as Pico Pistolero and his Snake Pit of Scoundrels, they are not to be taken lightly. Or maybe they are.
The saloon is Lil’s in Calico and the Snake Pit of Scoundrels are a group of skilled reenactors formed by Pico Pistolero at the request of the Regional Park administration after his initial faro
games became popular attractions at Calico’s special events. They operate a gambling hall and perform at Calico Days and California Days each year. The group appears at other events as well. At the Calico Ghost Haunt they set up a haunted house and demonstrate the fine art of snake oil remedy selling.
Pico, and yes, it is a stage name, is a real fan of Calico. He recognizes how important Calico was to our local history. To promote a knowledge of the fascinating history of Calico and help prevent it devolving into just another tourist spot, Pico presents a one-minute U-Tube video every Saturday. The short videos are based on actual newspaper stories from the period now available on online archives. Called “A Minute in Calico,” the videos are enjoyable and easy to find by searching Pico Pistolero U-Tube videos.
Daryl Schendel, long-time friend and owner of Lil’s Saloon, The Calico House Restaurant, Calico Woodworks, and several other Calico businesses is working with Pico to produce longer videos about Calico’s history and the mining district. I recently watched an interesting video about the history of Lil’s Saloon. It was produced with a choice of some twenty different languages. Lil’s saloon was one
IBy John Wease
of the five original buildings still standing when Walter Knott purchased Calico in 1951.
Although there were twenty-two saloons operating during Calico’s heyday, Lil’s was not one of them. The building was originally a drug store. Purchased from the original owners by Doctor A.H. Rhea in 1887, the roof parapet still shows his name. Walter Knott decorated the building as Lil’s Saloon with an authentic back bar, swinging doors and a real old-west feel. The video explains the building’s rammed earth construction as well. The town was formed in 1882. A fire in 1883 destroyed many buildings. Subsequent fires led to buildings with rammed earth walls to help stop the spread of fires. Unlike adobe brick construction, clay and sand is pressed in forms to make walls. Evidence of adding rocks, broken bottles and anything else that was handy to add strength is apparent. Four of the five original buildings are of rammed earth. Calico had its own newspaper called the Calico Print. Videos based on articles from the Calico Print are being planned as are more multi-language longer videos. The current one-minute videos are generally based on archives from San Bernardino and Los Angeles newspapers that were in operation during the period of the Calico Mining District. As you may imagine, there was a lot of interest in our silver boom town and the vast riches that were mined. So, tune in to the fascinating videos produced by Pico Pistolero. Pico is a Calico character, and a real character. Drop by Lil’s Saloon. If he is dealing faro, pull up a chair and join the fun. I think you’ll enjoy it. Maybe I’ll see you there.
Camp Cady
F YOU ARE NEW TO NEWBERRY SPRINGS, or if you have only driven past on the Interstate 40 or the Historic Route 66, you may have wondered why we have a Fort Cady Road here. You would have to go way back, long before there was Newberry Springs, Newberry, or Water as it was called by the Santa Fe Railroad. Long before Santa Fe built their tracks between Daggett and Needles, an ancient trail existed just a little north and along the Mojave River here in present
day Newberry Springs.
The trail was known as the Mojave Trail and was in use for hundreds of years by the Mojaves who lived just north of present-day Needles along the Colorado River. They used this trail across the desert to reach the California coast to trade their agricultural products for seashells and other items. The Mojaves were a peaceful tribe and guided Father Garces, exploring the great unknown for Spain, during his travels to the coast in 1776. They guided
By John Wease
famous mountain man Jedediah Smith in 1826, John Fremont and Kit Carson in the 1840s and General Beale in the 1850s as he built his wagon road along the thirty-fifth parallel, crossing the Mojave along the Mojave Trail. It became known thereafter as the Mojave Road.
The Mojave Road reached a junction with the Old Spanish Trail a little upstream. This trail became known as the Mormon Wagon Road. General mistreatment of Paiutes and Mojaves led to attacks on travelers on both roads. In 1859 five hundred soldiers “subdued” the Mojaves and Fort Mojave was built to maintain the peace. In 1860, Major James Carlton established Camp Cady for the First Dragoons as their base for the “Paiute Campaign” to find and punish the Paiutes responsible for attacking and killing travelers. The camp was named for his friend, Major Albermarle Cady, commander at Fort Yuma. It was built of adobe on the site of an 1858 depot for quartermaster supplies known as Lt. Davis’s Depot. Camp Cady closed during the Civil War but was manned periodically by California Volunteers. It was reopened again after the war and was used as part of a chain of “redoubts,” the military term for a small outlying post, used by Army supply wagons as they crossed the Eastern Mojave carrying supplies from Los Angeles to Fort Mojave. Each redoubt was
Slice of
Wat a water source and made the 140 mile trip across the desert possible. In 1868, the camp was moved about one half mile upstream and more substantial buildings were built. By 1871 the need for troops was gone and Camp Cady was closed.
The four-square mile property was sold to Mr. Cantwell and Mr. Winters. In 1889 a five-stamp mill was built there to process gold ore from the nearby Alvord Mine. In 1930, Mrs. Mintie James and Mrs. Melville bought the property to use as a cattle ranch. Although the old barns and buildings are there, today the 1870 acres property is a “desert riparian wildlife habitat” administered by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Known as the Camp Cady Wildlife Area, it is open for hiking, birdwatching, camping, and small game hunting. Entry to the wildlife area is at the intersection of Mojave Trails Road and Fort Cady Road on the south side of the river. The headquarters building is located among the old ranch buildings but is no longer manned or open. In fact, that area is all marked off as a closed area, no trespassing allowed. I was told there were
three game wardens on duty in the past and hunters’ seminars. One source said everything closed during Covid, another source said the three wardens retired and were not replaced. Maybe both are true. Entry is through a walk-through entrance. There is a kiosk for hunters to sign in and register. According to the registration forms I saw, it is a popular dove hunting site. It was near the end of dove season when I was there, and I was a little nervous to be walking around, but I saw no hunters. It is open to quail and rabbit hunting as well during the seasons. At least one man-made pond was full of water. It is supposed to be Mojave Tui Chub habitat so maybe they are there, but the growth of cattails prevented seeing much of the water. Near the pond there were more closed area signs.
Camp Cady was located on the opposite side of the river. It is accessed by driving Cherokee Road almost to the Ironwood Academy and turning south. There is a monument commemorating Camp Cady. The original Camp Cady was about 400 feet south of the monument. I searched but could not find any sign of the old stone foundations. The adobe has washed away over the years. It is an enjoyable place to walk around and imagine the harsh lives of the old soldiers. Just try to not look like a dove, quail, or rabbit.
Life THE GOOD ELVES
ENT TO WALMART THIS MORNING to buy two tires for the KIA. Needed a gift bag for a Christmas party at the Writer’s Club Saturday, so I grabbed that and a card, and went to the Express Check-Out where I asked for $100 in cash. Which I got . . . in one dollar bills. Ninety-one of them actually because the machine ran out of money. The way the money seemed to pop out of the machine, I felt like I had won some kind of
jackpot. I hadn’t, of course, but it’s Christmas and who’s to say Walmart wasn’t feeling generous.
They weren’t.
But I was lucky in a way because of what happened next, I didn’t know you could get ones at the machines. Neither did the young girl working the section. She was as stunned as me and she was prompt with a solution. She contacted her supervisor, explained the situation, and in a matter of a couple of minutes, my fistful
By J.P.Garner
of ones was replaced by 5 twenty’s. Apryl, the young rep who helped me, was all smiles. The situation was hilarious. And the help I received from her and Rena, her supervisor, was simply outstanding. What could have been a troublesome moment was made laughable and it seemed an altogether fitting occurrence for Christmas because it’s the season when the good Elves come out and make the bad go away.
Marcy’s Musings
S.W.I.M. Celebrates Native American Heritage Month
THE FOLKS WHO ATTENDED the S.W.I.M. (Seniors With Inquiring Minds) meeting at the Percy Bakker Center on Thursday, Nov. 14 were mesmerized by the presentation given by Past Mohahve Historical Society President Mary Ruth Hughes. As an award winning author of “Tishomingo” (2007) and “Return to Oklachuka” (2016), and a number of other books, Mary Ruth was more than well-qualified to present during Native American Heritage Month. Hailing from the capital of the Chickasaw Nation, in what is now the state of Oklahoma, Mary draws on her heritage and a family secret to create two must-read pieces of historical fiction. Her books are praised by Oklahoma historians, a Victorian-era fashion expert, and other authors, but most importantly by the Governor of the Chickasaw nation and the Smithsonian.
Among the many interesting and sometimes troubling facts presented is the mistreatment of Native Americans by the government. For example, to avoid paying the Indian “Head Tax” in Texas, some Indians called themselves “Black Dutch.” That designation backfired years later when “Black Dutch”
weren’t eligible for reparations.
On a more positive note, Mary described how her son, Miko, a child actor who is still in the movie business, went through an elaborate Naming Ceremony on July 17 during his 12th year. It involved a medicine bag, a sun dance, a fire that burned all night without being stoked, a gourd full of red root tea, donut clouds, and lightning. As his white clothes began to glow like neon, Miko’s name emerged from the smoke. As daylight broke, the all-night fire went out. After the blessing with eagle feathers, Miko had a new name, Nashobatoby, meaning “White Wolf.”
Mary set up two display tables of for-sale items. One held her hand-made beaded earrings. A second held her many published books, two more on Native Americans, a Recipe Book and “Memories of a Farmer’s Daughter.” In addition, she has written a number of cute and funny children’s books. A highlight was hearing recordings of her gifted son, Miko, then only seven, reading two of them aloud as Mary turned the
pages. Her scrapbook of old family photos was also fascinating.
After some prompting by an audience member, Mary was talked into sharing her son’s movie career, which could have been a presentation in itself. How many 22-month-olds have their own agent to make commercials for PBS, more than 50 in all? (No babies I know.) So it was a mad rush to get a social security number and a work permit for a child not yet two years old. Miko’s first movie role at age 4 was “Kindergarten Cop” starring Arnold Schwarzenegger. He went on to act in “Pet Sematary,” “Mercury Rising,” and other movies, along with parts on numerous TV shows. His most challenging role had to be that of the autistic child, Simon, in “Mercury Rising” starring Bruce Willis.
Coming up soon: “A Child Actor’s Scrapbook” by Miko Hughes. I can’t wait to read it to find out what it was like to be Johnny Carson’s youngest guest ever! Congrats to both Mary and Miko for your successful careers, and thanks to Mary Ruth Hughes for sharing your stories with us.
Victorville Celebrates Veterans for the 28th Year
AS THEY SAY, “What a beautiful day for a parade!” And November 11, 2024, sure was a perfect morning as the 28th Annual Victorville Veterans Parade marched and rolled down the Old Route 66 to the cheers of excited parade goers, who lined both
sides of Seventh Street. The 33 entries included the City Council members, school bands and drill teams, car clubs, California Cadet Corps, Junior ROTC, cheer squads and dancers, several sororities and fraternities, Young Marines, Tuskegee Airmen, American Legion, the Shriners and Knights of Columbus, as well as the local Police and Fire Departments.
The patriotic ceremony at the Veterans Statue following the parade was a touching tribute. 43 local Veterans representing five Military Branches, with service spanning from World War II to current ac-
tive duty, were highlighted in the program and on the big screen. Patriotism was especially palatable during the flag raising, the National Anthem, a musical tribute, and the Armed Forces Medley.
Across the street, the Victor Valley Legacy Museum’s tribute included military displays, complimentary snacks and drinks, cards for Veterans, patriotic music, and museum visits. A number of Veterans and families of parade participants stopped by to celebrate, until the dear old
wind put a sudden end to the festivities in the early afternoon.
A big thank you goes out to all of our local servicemen and women, our Veterans, their families, and the City of Victorville, for making this awesome yearly event possible.
“Ora et Labora” i.e. “Prayer and Labor”
NOVEMBER WAS LUCERNE VALLEY MONTH for the Mohahve Historical Society, thanks to Board Member Dennis Hom (who lives in Apple valley.) Saturday Nov. 3 35 members and 2 guests met at the Saint Joseph Monastery with Our Lady of Lavang Treat House, located in a beautiful secluded area about 12 miles north of town. We were greeted by three Vietnamese Monks, who gave us a tour of their beautiful spacious grounds while sharing the amazing story of how they started from nothing (no electricity, no water, just land and more land) and, by God’s grace, created a peaceful sanctuary to hold retreats and welcome guests. And the construction continues with several
projects underway.
According to the Monastery brochure, the project began in 2008, when a group of Vietnamese Cistercian Monks arrived at the desert of Lucerne Valley, “to establish a new foundation and open a retreat house in order to provide a peaceful place for those who come to seek God, to recover from their physical or spiritual burden, or to get away from their busy and stressful schedule.” During our short visit, we toured the grounds, posed for a photo in front of the chapel, then wandered inside and enjoyed the beautiful architecture and organ music. We then walked up the steps to a very large statue, where we learned a bit more of the history there. Those who were able started the climb up the long winding paths that led up
A Lot of Lees from Lucerne Valley
IF YOU WERE NOT ONE of the 27 members and 7 guests in attendance at the Nov. 21 Mohahve Historical Society meeting at the Lone Wolf Colony, you missed a good one! Lee Risler, third generation Lucerne Valley homesteader, gave an informative and humorous talk on his family’s experiences, homesteading first 160 acres and then
adding 480 more, out Rabbit Springs Road east of town. The volcanic buttes, just past Lincoln Road, now bear the official name: “Risler’s Buttes.” (If you missed this presentation, all is not lost. The family’s story is detailed in “Lucerne Valley: a Wild West Town of Character(s)” pages 134-136, with mentions of this or that on a lot of other pages, and we just
the hillside, past many sets of steps and raised platforms holding white statues, all representing various parts of the struggle for religious freedom.
Once again on this trip we heard the same comment over and over: “I never even knew this place was here!” So don’t think there’s nothing exciting to do or see in the High Desert. Travel with the Mohahve historical Society, and we’ll open your eyes to new exciting people, places, and experiences.
happen to sell this fascinating book for $20.)
Lee Risler III, one of the many Lee Rislers in the family, is the great-grandson of Lee Risler, Sr., and son of Lee Risler, Jr. Lee III also has a son named Lee (Lee IV) who has a son named Lee (Lee V). Got that? Lee III’s father (the Jr.) was 11 years old as the story begins. He and his older brother Tom, age 13. were left on their own on the High Desert property, while their parents returned to San Pedro to work. The hilarious letters with detaled illustrations
mailed to Mom and Dad were a highlight of the presentation. Every letter asked for money for food and gas. Now why would two youngsters need gas money? To drive themselves to town, to school, and anywhere else they needed to go. Of course, they could always ride the horse, which is why one letter also asked for a saddle, to keep from getting constantly bucked off. Do you know of any 11 and 13-year-old boys who could make it on their own, tend to the animals and crops, get themselves to school and sporting
events, and even repair the carburetor in the family car? I don’t!
Thanks to Lee III and his wife Bryn for sharing family photos and scrapbooks and so much interesting information. And of course thanks to Treasurer Dennis Hom for inviting Lee to speak and creating his power point presentation. So next time you’re out that way, drive east on Rabbit Springs Road and check out Risler’s Buttes, where five generations of Rislers made their mark in Lucerne Valley.
Victor Valley College Quartet Spreads Christmas Cheer
ON THURSDAY DECEMBER 5 , the members of the California Retired Teachers Association (CalRTA Tumbleweed Division #74) came all decked out in their holiday best for the monthly luncheon meeting. The group was extremely lucky to be
entertained by a fabulous quartet, part of the larger Victor Valley College choir. Left to right are the very talented students: Diego Toranzo singing Bass, Alto Melany Amezcua, Tenor Vincent Salas, and Soprano Saphire Salazar. After a medley of holiday songs, including many old
favorites, a Hanukah tribute, and the children’s classic “I Want a Hippopotamus For Christmas,” the group was presented with a Certificate of Appreciation from Programming Chairperson Eloise Gibson. Keep up the good work, VVC students, you have a bright future ahead.
Honeymooning at the Apple Valley Inn
IN THE ALMOST TEN YEARS that I have operated the Apple Valley Legacy Museum on the grounds of the Historic Apple Valley Inn, the former “Hot Spot” of the 1940s to 1980s era, I have heard a lot of romantic stories:
*”My grandparents married at the Inn, It was their favorite place.”
*”My parents held their wedding reception at the Hilltop House. The photos are beautiful!”
*My wife and I stayed at the Inn for our honeymoon. They put us in the last cottage to the east so we wouldn’t disturb the other guests.”
So it was a real surprise when, on the afternoon of Thursday Dec. 5, a young couple expecting their first child arrived, and told me they had just gotten married a few hours ago! They met at Victor Valley College, where they are both students. The groom was quite knowledgeable
about local history, especially the movies filmed in the area, the result of a recent Art 104 class “Film as an Art Form.” One movie he had studied, “The Hills Have Eyes,” which was filmed in Apple Valley on Bell Mountain Road, I would not
recommend as a romantic film to watch on your wedding night!
So here are the newlyweds, Cesar and Chloe Hernandez taking a break to enjoy the desert scenery. And of course a photo op with the recently recovered late 1800s era stagecoach was in order. It had arrived in 1952 for the filming of a western, and stuck around to take guests back and forth across the highway between the airport and the Inn. And yes, my guests were up for a stagecoach ride. (Unfortunately the four beautiful horses that once pulled the stagecoach retired long ago.)
Anyway, thanks Cesar and Chloe, for spending part of your special day here at the Apple Valley Inn, and for your interest in local history. And best wishes for a great future together.
Victorville Rings in the Holiday Season
THERE WAS NO REASON for anyone in the Victor Valley to be bored on Sat. Dec. 7, as the day was packed with holiday events. Starting things off was the 77th Annual Victorville Christmas Parade, which rolled, marched, and danced its way down 7th Street, entertaining the crowd with more than 80 entries- the most ever!
Following the two hour extravaganza, the party in Old Town continued with the traditional yearly Crafts Fair. Passersby could browse the festive booths, enjoy live music on the back stage, and visit the three hosting businesses: Santa Fe Trading Company, the Victor Valley Legacy
Museum, and Sweet Treasure Shack Soap Shop. We all thank Santa and Mrs. Clause for bringing holiday cheer and the most beautiful December weather we could ever ask for.
The Crafts Fair wound up about 4:00, just in time for partiers to head right over to the evening events at City Hall. The annual tree-lighting featured not only singers and dancers and plenty of exciting booths, but also an ice skating rink and carriage rides, creating the feel of a real West Coash New York City Central Park.
Meanwhile, a few blocks away at the Holiday Inn, the “End of the Trail” Happy Trails Children’s Foundation banquet was getting started. Yes, award-winning Western songstress Belinda Gail and
well-known Cowboy Poet Larry Maurice were in town, to entertain all the local cowboys and cowgirls, as well as quite a few others who rode in from out of town, and to honor Roy and Dale and those who have continued their incredible work over the years. In attendance were quite a number of Mohahve Historical Society members, a large group of the RR Bar Regulators, some local entertainers, and, of course, over 100 Happy Trails Children’s Foundation friends and supporters.
So the countdown to Christmas had officially begun, reminding everyone to grab a Santa hat or a pair of antlers, and to enjoy all the season has to offer.
Jan. 14, 11:00 AM- Friends of the Apple Valley Library General Membership Meeting- DMV presentation
Jan. 20, 10:00 AM- Martin Luther King, Jr. Peace March- Civic Center Drive, Victorville
Jan. 23, 6:30 PM- Mohahve Historical Society Meeting, Lone Wolf Colony, Speaker Ted Faye- “20 Mule Teams”
Jan. 24, 10:00 AM- Mohahve Historical Society Fieldtrip to Mitsubishi Cement Plant in Lucerne Valley
Jan. 25, 10:00-3:00 Old West Days at the Victor Valley Museum, Apple Valley Rd. Regular admission prices apply. Call (760) 985-1918 for more information
A Chat About Parkinson’s
COMPASSION IS KEY TO CAREGIVING
It’s one of those qualities you don’t know is missing until you find it. A friend and I were sharing over lunch about what we know now that we didn’t know in our younger days. We agreed that we wish we had learned compassion much earlier. Compassion in caring for a loved one – or anyone, really – serves us as well as the people we are caring for.
Be Compassionate. In the case of Parkinsons, you can help preserve your loved one’s dignity and sense of selfworth. Avoid answering questions on their behalf unless they ask you to do so. When my Burt was in a wheelchair, people would often ask me about him. I always answered, “Ask him. He can talk.” (But with a smile, of course).
Encourage your loved one to exercise. Are you tired of hearing that word? (If you are exercising you can skip this part). A friend with Parkinson’s says that when he starts to feel weak or wobbly, he takes a walk. This resets him, somehow, and he feels stronger. Hey there, PD peeps. Are you listening? See how simple exercise can be?
Parkinson’s patients have on and off periods. Learn to plan activities around the on periods, if possible.
Allow your loved one to vent frustrations. I promise you, there are more than you can imagine. They don’t love their limitations, not being able to do things they never gave a second thought to before PD.
My Burt was a hobbyist woodworker, with all the tools you can imagine. He built a large addition onto the house before Parkinson’s. One day, he was trying to do something as simple as screw something into the wall, and he couldn’t hold on to the screw. “Dagnabit!” was his go-to swear word. And I felt his frustration as the screw dropped to the floor, once again. Extend your compassion to yourself by getting adequate rest. I used to get up three or four times a night to check on Burt. He was often awake, just staring at the ceiling. Insomnia in PD is not uncommon. Try napping when your person naps. Even a short nap can revive you. Remember, if you don’t care for yourself, you will not be able to care for another.
Collaborate. Prepare for the future together. Set up the “what if?” list. What if I (the care partner) am unable to provide care? What if my partner (person with PD) should develop dementia or need an alternative living arrangement? These issues are better addressed by the two of you as a team in the early stages of the disease.
Allow for Comic Relief. You will both
by Ann Miner
need diversions, especially during difficult moments. For some, diversion is comic relief. One couple says they joke about the gravitational pull of the floor.
When sitting down for a meal, the husband jokes that a napkin will do unless you have a raincoat handy. (No kidding). Sing oldies to exercise the voice, dance to improve balance. Whatever works for you. Be adaptable to the moment.
Take PD meds on schedule! A study was done to underscore the benefits of taking Parkinson’s medicines on schedule. Those taking the meds on schedule experienced higher levels of improvement in mobility, activities of daily living, emotional wellbeing, cognition, communication and body discomfort, than those who did not pay attention to the time.
Have discussions with your doctors and caregivers about how to remember to take meds on time. It was normal for me to look at the clock and see that I had just slid through Burt’s dose. We had one of those plastic clocks for using on store windows that say, “Back at 1:00.” After each dose, I placed the hands on the next time to give a dose. That worked --- sometimes. We bought watches with timers, pill boxes with alarms, and crafted several ways to remember. None of them worked every time. Now, with watches and phones with timers and alarms, I expect I could do better. How about you?
NEWS FLASH! NEWS FLASH!
I’m excited to announce that for our February meeting we will have as a speaker a physical therapist who is trained in Lou Silverstein Voice Training, known widely as LSVT BIG! Dr. Caitlin McCurley will come and show us some ways to make our voices stronger. She already works with Parkinson’s peeps and knows the needs. You must not miss this meeting, because if you don’t need the training now, you may in time.
And now, the timer has pinged, and it is with compassion that I stop. Set YOUR alarm for 1:00 on the first Monday of the month and come to a Parkinson’s Support Group meeting. We learn and have fun doing so. I love seeing you and hearing from you. Call me if you have questions. 760-954-2859.
Changing the WORLD
It’s a sick world in which we live.
ROUGHLY ONE IN FIVE PEOPLE in the United States, and more than 10 percent of the global population live with mental illness. That’s a medical condition that invades a person’s thinking, feelings, and behaviors and is often revealed as mood or anxiety disorders brought on by life, or genetic conditions like schizophrenia and bi-polar disorders.
When it’s severe and hospitalization is required, daily patient care is routinely provided by specially-trained personnel called Psychiatric Technicians. They’re like superheroes. RN’s with a heart for the emotionally and mentally disabled.
Because of the stresses, strains, and anxieties brought on by a world that can crush many people because it’s increasingly dispassionate and divided, mental health is a major public-health issue in modern medicine. The mentally ill would be lost without the compassionate and professional care rendered daily by PTs.
Michael Raff was a PT . . . for 34 years. His experiences are vividly and dramatically recounted in his book, Surviving My Career as a Psychiatric Technician, which was released this past December. As a psychiatric technician, he worked in many different settings, evaluating and supporting his patients’ mental health needs and working with doctors to execute care plans, but Mike got his start in a pizza parlor in Santa Ana. As he explains it, “I really didn’t have a career mind. I was 22 and working at a pizza parlor. It was just a job really [but] I wanted to find something that was unique and helpful to people. [While] working at the Pizza Parlor in Santa Ana, a gal came in and asked me if I mind if she brought in 13 girls from Fairview State Hospital.
“I didn’t know what Fairview was but I wasn’t going to turn down the business. So they came in and I noticed that they were developmentally disabled. All 13 ladies and there were two psych techs and I asked the one lady questions about what’s it like and what’s required to get a psych tech license.
“A half hour later I decided that’s what I wanted to do for a career.”
“Just like that?” I asked.
“Just like that” Mike replied with a smile, as he reflected back to that day . .
. that moment . . . and it’s significance in his life and how it changed everything. He continued, “I had to go back to school for one year, a solid year and three months. I could work as a pre-licensed psych tech at Fairview and which is in Costa Mesa and I was 110% for it. I was just really gung-ho!”
Because this seemed an unlikely career choice to be made in a pizza parlor, I asked what was the job’s principal appeal. Mike didn’t stop smiling. “I could help people,” he said with some conviction, as if his motives didn’t require any explanation. “I could actually help people. I pretty much had my head in the clouds, [but] I wanted to leave my mark on humanity and that was one way of doing it. So few months later I was in school and working part-time at Fairview.
“It wasn’t easy course,” he added. “It was difficult but I got almost straight A’s.”
In a typical day, he had to take classes at Cypress College then do what was called, “clinic time,” on a ward at Fairview where he OJT’d with psych techs for a couple hours then go work at night to pay the bills. “So you had to have a lot of energy and a good driving car,“ he explained, “because I did a lot of commuting? I also went to private psych facilities so I was kept very busy.” Not one to complain, Mike endured the routine and, after graduating with honors, went to work full-time at Fairview.
He went on to describe the difference between a public facility from one that’s private. For the employees of a private facility, the difference is felt in pay and
By J.P.Garner
benefits. It’s not as good as a state-run hospital. But a private facility, as might be expected, is, he says, “. . . more appealing to the eye. You know they were usually in better shape. For instance, the ad for a dorm was actually a bedroom which is for patients, whereas at Fairview or Metro, they had dorms with 16 beds.
“Another big difference though was that in private psych facilities if a patient assaulted someone, they were discharged and charged for the damage. But not at state-facilities like Metro and Fairview. Psych techs there are well trained to deal with assault, where at some private facilities, techs are not.
“Sometimes patients abuse themselves in a hospital, but patients in psych hospitals can get out of control and assault staff or one another.” he said. While the care at private psych hospitals was on par or better than in the state hospitals, the psych techs at state hospitals were better trained in safety.
Until he was promoted to be a Shift Supervisor, an average day for Mike involved repetition. Essentially, the same duties each day which might test a person’s endurance or patience when confronted by an uncooperative patient. “Typically a psych tech will come in for the day shift at six thirty in the morning which is kind of early for people with kids.
“You get the patients up depending on the level of care which varies in the Development Centers. They could be infirmed and confined to a bed, and can’t walk or they may be semi-ambulatory.”
From this point forward, a patient’s
schedule and activities was supervised, depending upon the level of care they needed. In some instances, all the patients might be wheelchair-bound or need help feeding themselves in the dining room. Their needs varied and dictated the level of care—and compassion—they received. The work was never ending.
But now retired, Mike writes books. He’s the Stephen King of the High Desert with books like Stalkers, The Seventh Stranger, and Shadowland. He joined the High Desert branch of the California Writers Club in 2011 and has become one of the
club’s most prolific writers. The BIG thing he had to overcome as a writer wasn’t thinking up stories but finishing them, in that he’d polish them over and over again.
“A teacher once said that John Steinbeck didn’t consider himself a good writer and that most first-time writers could produce a better first draft than him. But Steinbeck kept going over his material, again and again, until it was well polished.
Mike laughs. “That’s what I did with Surviving. The biggest thing I was doing with it [was that] I was so nervous about putting it out there it took me like two
months to polish it, and even now [that I have] finalized it and it’s at Amazon, I still think there’s something else I could have done better. But I [don’t] look at it because then I want to go back and change it. I want to move on.”
Writing, he said, gets under your skin. So did working as a Psychiatric Technician for thirty-four years. The patience Mike applied to his work as a PT, he now applies to his writing. It is evident in the quality of the writing in his most recent book which is now available at Amazon. Mike can be reached at mprseven@aol.com.
The Commitment of a Volunteer Firefighter
DOWNTOWN VICTORVILLE was a viable shopping area in 1972 when we opened the first bicycle shop in the Valley. The two blocks on 7th Street, between C and A Streets, held the main businesses, such as Bank of America, Lee’s Chinese, Pinky’s TV shop, Layne’s dress shop, the Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Restaurant, Western Hardware, and our bike shop, among others.
My husband, Jim, and I ran it together, and invited our young friend, Steve, to help with the assembling of new bikes, waiting on customers, and so on. Jim was teaching at the local college, as well, and wasn’t always available, so Steve and I held down the fort, so to speak.
In those days, Victorville had only a volunteer fire department, of which Steve was a part. One day, I went up 7th street to get our lunch. There was a gas station engulfed in flames on 7th and Greentree, and firetrucks were roaring in to put out the fire. I thought that it was too bad that Steve couldn’t go fight that fire because he was the only one in the bike shop.
When I came back to the store and walked into the front door, there was a couple there, seemingly looking over the various brands of bicycles. They said, “Hello, can we help you?”
Huh? They happened to be in the store when the sirens began blaring, and Steve couldn’t stand not to go and fight that fire. So, he put the two total strangers in charge of the shop and off he went.
Talk about dedication
by Ann Miner
Palm Springs Air Museum leaves nothing in the air
By John Beyer
THE CONCEPT OF FLYING has always intrigued me. How some object simply in a matter of seconds can leave the earth and soon be flying so easily through the heavens?
As a young boy, I jumped off my parent’s tall garage roof over our backyard and flapped my arms as fast as a hummingbird. Luckily the ground broke my fall. My father just looked at me. “What were you thinking?”
“I thought I was a bird.”
He walked away shaking his head.
Thus the reason when I can visit an air museum, I jump at the chance, not fly but jump since no matter how hard you flap your arms, gravity will keep you grounded.
So recently my lovely wife, Laureen, and I traveled to the wonderful city of Palm Springs to wander the grounds of the Palm Springs Air Museum.
Walking up to the entrance will take the visitor quite a few minutes because this large museum doesn’t only have historical military exhibits inside but a lot to see on the outside.
A Mikoyan-Gurevick MiG-15 sits proudly just south of the main entrance to the museum. This Soviet Union jet fighter was the terror of the skies after its introduction in 1949. The swept back wings, short fuselage made this plane extremely maneuverable during aerial combat, which was proven when these planes were used during the Korean War. As a result the United States introduced the American F-86 Sabre to counter the MiG-15.
We wandered from exterior exhibits like the McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet, to the General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon, to another four or five beautifully
maintained planes which point out the importance of air power for any nation.
In fact, the message of the museum is: ‘The Palm Springs Air Museum is a living history museum dedicated to educating the public about the role Air Power played in preserving American liberties and way of life.’
One such aircraft on display outside was an observation plane, the 0-2 Skymaster which resembles its predecessor the Cessna 0-1 E Bird Dog. This sight brought a lump to my throat as my uncle, Captain Edmund Thornell, had been flying the Bird Dog on a mission in Vietnam on September 10, 1966 when he was shot down and killed. It was his birthday, he had just turned 33 years of age.
I closed my eyes for a moment before we moved on.
As we entered the museum, there were quite a few docents of all ages waiting to
answer questions for the visitors lining up at the doors. It appeared many were veterans of a different era, but all were eager to greet and offer information about each and every exhibit the museum had to offer.
And there is a lot to see in the various hangars located at the museum, but first, we were interested in the guests who were waiting by a check-in counter located at the end of the large glass foyer.
These folks were anxiously awaiting their scheduled flight with one of the Warbird planes available to the public. These flights take approximately 60 minutes to complete with at least 20 to 30 minutes in the air allowing an individual the chance for a bird’s eye view of the entire Coachella Valley and perhaps a fly-over of Salton Sea.
Numerous pristine, iconic planes are available, to choose from and the price for a ride varies based in part on the fuel consumption for each craft. The cheapest seat in the house is aboard the famous C-47 Transport which was used to ferry troops and provisions to different locales during WWII. It is probably best known for delivering paratroopers on D-Day with the invasion by the allies into France.
The most expensive ride available is the two-seater T-33 Shooting Star. This Lockheed mid-1940s fighter was the first jet to be utilized by what was called the United States Army Air Force.
There are more planes to choose from, all meticulously maintained and flown by experts.
World War II P51 Mustang in pristine condition
“Which plane are you going to jump into?” Laureen asked.
I felt my wallet shrink in my back pocket and chose instead to purchase a t-shirt featuring the Warbird, Man O’War. This P-51 Mustang was built in February of 1945 and shipped to England, but was too late to see any wartime action. Now, folks can sit in the back seat and enjoy the maneuvers this plane can deliver.
“A t-shirt?” Laureen asked.
“I’ll embellish the purchase,” I replied.
The hangars at the air museum include not only aircraft from various eras, all dealing with military service, but also other modes of transportation.
While wandering here and there, my eyes took in a gorgeous, olive drab Indian motorcycle used by the United States Army. A light brown leather seat and saddlebags gave the machine a look as though it were ready for a mission of utmost importance at any moment.
“Maybe we should buy a motor . . .” I started.
“Nope,” came a reply to my right. I did not even bother to turn, I recognized it, and moved on to the next exhibit.
Large models of Navy ships take up almost an entire wall of one of the hangars. Detailed information of each is readily available for visitors to learn where the ships were built, where they served during military action, and the final disposition of such ships.
A pair of huge WWII Japanese deck binoculars give the appearance they are still in use, waiting to spot an approaching American fighter or bomber headed their way.
Walking through any museum is a learning experience for all ages. Laureen and
I used to take the girls to museums quite often, and to this day they still marvel at how much fun they had during those visits.
“We went to what?” Kelly still asks. Erica would chime in then, “Remember when Dad would drag us . . .”
“I’d rather read the book,” was uttered more than once by Jessica.
I generally stop listening at that point. It is amazing to view all the aircraft jammed into the hangars at the museum. Not haphazardly, but carefully orchestrated like an oil masterpiece. Much like the Monet I have hanging next to my neon Miller Lite sign.
Guide ropes allow guests a chance to get a close up view of the exhibits while at the same time not allowing those same guests to touch the exhibits with their dirty greasy hands.
Perhaps those ropes were meant for me.
There are pilotless drones hanging from the ceilings, helicopters hanging from the ceilings, and ceilings hanging from the ceilings.
Writing about the helicopters, and there are a lot of them on display. There is Bell H-13 Sioux, a Bell AH-1 Huey Cobra, a Bell UH-1 Iroquois, and a Heck-of-a-Bell Sasquatch.
There is everything available for the aviationist geek located within and outside of the museum, enough to spend hours upon hours gawking.
One of Laureen’s favorite was the dark blue Chance Vought F-4U Corsair. This was the plane used by the United States Navy during WWII that flew off the decks of the humongous aircraft carriers. The powerful Pratt and Whitney behind the long propeller indicated nothing but power.
As I was snapping a photograph of the Corsair, I suddenly heard a man grunting near me while saying something like, “Ooh - ooh, more power.”
“Was that Tim Allen?” Laureen asked.
The Palm Springs Air Museum has created a wonderful real-time experience for visitors in honoring all the military branches and learning what part each of those branches played in keeping this awesome country of ours free.
It should be noted that in one hangar stands the Lockheed Martin F-117A Nighhawk. The lights in the building are low. There are subtle red lights beneath the fuselage giving the fighter an ominous look. A guest can get a glimpse of what this plane would look like as it suddenly swept over an enemy at night.
Is the combat fighter a mockup or the real thing?
I was sworn to secrecy.
For more information: https://palmspringsairmuseum.org/ John can be contacted at: beyersbyways@gmail.com
John R Beyer standing in front of WWII Willy’s Jeep
A mock-up of a USO evening for the troops featuring Bob Hope
Amboy’s Historic Mural and Monument Reveal
WE RECENTLY WENT TO A HISTORIC mural and monument reveal at Roy’s Motel and Cafe on Route 66 in Amboy in honor of Amboy owner and Juan Pollo creator, Albert Okura, who passed away last year. It had everything an honorable tribute should have, live music, raffles and and delicious food, in this case, complimentary Juan Pollo meals invented by the beloved Chicken Man himself. Most importantly, family, friends and fans gathered in the tiny ghost town of Amboy to celebrate and memorialize Albert’s life and the lasting impact he had on so many, but especially on his son, Kyle, who oversees his Dad’s businesses and pursues his own destiny in Amboy.
Albert owned the Juan Pollo restaurant chain since 1984, and was the founder of the original McDonald’s Museum in San Bernardino. He also wrote the book, Albert Okura The Chicken Man with a
50 Year Plan for the Juan Pollo brand, including his plans for the town of Amboy.
Albert Okura’s story started in Southern California in 1951. The son of parents who, just a few years earlier, were interred at a forced relocation camp for Japanese Americans during WW2. Albert’s Father had been a minor league baseball player for a Japanese team at the time but joined the U.S. Army.
Albert Okura would have been proud of the latest fuss in his tiny ghost town of Amboy. His son, Kyle Okura, and other members of the family, were still keeping his father’s dream alive. During the unveiling of the monument and murals ceremony, Kyle declared tens of thousands of people traveling on Route 66 can now learn about Albert Okura, the man whose destiny was to save Amboy.
Kyle shared touching memories of his Dad. Herein is what he said during his dedication speech before the unveiling. Kyle laughed while recalling that as kids,
By Jaylyn And John Earl www.thedesertway.com
his sister, brother and he would often be late for school on purpose just so Albert could drop them off at school in a Juan Pollo monster truck. Albert had a large array of parade vehicles. Even in high school, Albert would drop Kyle off from his truck with a 15 foot tall Bugs Bunny or Tasmanian Devil in the back or some other eye-catching vehicle. Kyle initially enjoyed the notoriety from onlookers but as a teen finally asked his Dad to drop him off at the corner. Kyle grew up but his Dad’s love for parade vehicles endured. Albert’s “Boat Car,” which comedian Gallagher built, was one of his jewels. Kyle recalled Albert always tried to plant seeds in others that were lessons to bring out the best in people. The lessons his Dad taught him were unorthodox but effective. Albert reminded Kyle he was going to teach him how things really were, not how they should be. For instance, instead of asking Kyle how school was today or making small talk, Albert preferred tackling lofty topics like the meaning of life.
Albert talked about important subjects like what character traits it takes to be truly great instead of teaching Kyle how to ride a bicycle. When Kyle got mad or felt defeated by something, Albert urged him to use his arrogance and hatred as
Composite of Albert Okura and Kyle Okura created by John Earl.
We were honored to meet author Steve Reyes of ‘Four Miles East of Bagdad,’ and his lovely wife. We have read his book from cover to cover and highly recommend it. It is destined to be a historic classic.
a motivator to become the best. When it came time to discuss sensitive matters such as dating, Albert advised Kyle to withhold from marrying while he was still young. He reminded Kyle to not fall for flattery because the wrong girls would chase Kyle for his money.
Kyle considered his Dad as his super hero. Albert always seemed to have a million things on his plate but somehow managed to handle it all. Kyle never met anyone with so much energy, drive and ambition as his Dad. Albert was the only person he knew that could work 365 days a year from morning until night. Albert prided himself in saying he never took a day off in 40 years, all major holidays and birthdays included. Kyle only recalled two vacations his family had while visiting family in Hawaii, and even then Albert was often glued to his phone handling business across the Pacific.
Fulfilling his destiny was Albert’s major concern. Whenever he got bogged down by responsibilities, Albert exclaimed, “My Dad worked harder, so I can’t complain.” When others commented to Albert he worked too hard, Albert would always respond that his Dad worked harder. If Albert sold 200 cases of chicken that week and everyone was celebrating about a new record, Albert would assert, “We can do more.” It wasn’t about being satisfied because Albert felt he could always do more. His goal was to sell more chicken than anyone else in the world. His mindset was to dream the impossible dream, then achieve it. Albert never rested on his laurels, he kept striving ahead to reach his next goal.
Albert told Kyle the secret to not burning out is to refrain from patting yourself on the back, or thinking your life is too hard because those are the exact moments you convince yourself you’ve done enough. Albert believed in the power of the mind where you can will yourself to believe anything. Albert taught Kyle about relentless determination. His mantra was drive and determination. Albert explained it was best to simplify because if he complicated things then nothing would get done. He believed to excel he must become obsessed with success, even to the point of being almost delusional to accomplish goals.
Kyle remembered Albert had hired a marketing company to promote Juan Pollo. Albert sat in a room full of executives to review the proofs. Anticipating blind approval, the CEO asked Albert what he thought after blatantly disregarding Albert’s earlier input. Albert exploded. He rejected the campaign with a few expletives because it was not up to par with Albert’s vision for Juan Pollo. Although his reputation was known by many as kind
and generous, when it came to business Albert was laser-focused and passionate. Albert was not a pushover. Later, the photographer shared with Kyle how awesome he thought it was when Albert cussed out the arrogant president who was overdue for an attitude adjustment. Screaming at people was never personal to Albert, he was just blowing off steam and didn’t hold grudges.
Albert and Kyle had many long, passionate talks together with Albert always taking the lead. Although Kyle would sometimes try to steer their conversations, it always returned to how to succeed. Kyle was very inspired by his Dad. He even memorized Albert’s talks word for word because they seldom varied. Albert never claimed to be savvy or a good businessman; he just got up every day, never complained about how hard things were, and had the courage and tenacity to keep moving forward.
Albert discovered another extension of his destiny. It would be to own the site of the original McDonald’s in San Bernardino. Later, an opportunity arose to buy a whole town in the Mojave Desert. For Albert, it
was kismet. Kyle poignantly recalled the day in 2005 when he found out. Kyle was 12 years old and on the computer playing video games. He remembered his Dad announcing to the family he was going to buy a town. Kyle was confused and asked him to explain. Albert reiterated it’s a town called Amboy and I’m going to buy it. Kyle still could not fathom his Dad’s decision and asked why. Albert grinned, looked him straight in the eye and asked, “Who do you know that owns a town?” Suddenly the concept seemed cool. Kyle pitched in fixing up Amboy but was clearly out of his league. He alerted his Dad about Amboy’s dismal water situation, failing pumps, power outages, regulations, certifications, complete employee turnovers, crime, electrical blow-outs in 120F weather, and the list was growing. It was hard work with little reward. One day Kyle asked Albert if they should consider turning all their attention back to Juan Pollo. Kyle said he will never forget Albert’s response. “Never sell this town. You will never get another opportunity like this.” As usual, Albert was right.
John has teenage memories of Amboy dating back to the 1970s.
One of the things that Albert understood best was having a vision for future opportunities and jumping on it. Albert believed if you waited you would regret it later because you let the opportunity pass by. Regret had no place in the Okura family. Albert figured it was better to take a leap of faith and figure it out later. Although it sometimes proved challenging for his family, Kyle respected Albert for having courage, taking risks and seeing things through. According to Albert, oftentimes the smartest man in the room is the one who has the most courage.
In 2022, Kyle and his Dad appeared in a documentary called Mysteries of the Abandoned on the Discovery Channel. As Albert and him were driving to Amboy to film, Kyle suggested Albert should talk about Amboy’s past, and Kyle would talk about Amboy’s future. During the interviews, the producers explained it was a short segment. Weeks went by. When the episode finally came on, Kyle was excited and awakened Albert. In Kyle’s mind, it was going to be a watch party with friends and family cheering Kyle on. Much to Kyle’s chargrin, he learned his brush with Hollywood had ended up on the cutting room floor. Albert had come up with amazing sound bites, such as Amboy being his destiny. Before returning to bed, Albert remarked the episode was “pretty good.”
to Amboy as he explained the endless challenges Amboy was presenting. His Mom listened patiently then simply said, “If your Dad was young, he would have figured it out.” Kyle realized he had internalized this idea from years of lectures from his Dad and it was true. Thereafter, any time a problem needed solving Kyle reminded himself his Dad would’ve figured it out. By 2019, most of Amboy’s problems were fixed, patched up, or replaced, and the real fun began. Amboy made a reputation for itself as a prime locale for photo shoots, movies, commercials and music videos.
Albert’s older brother, Robert, passed away in high school. Albert assumed the role as eldest son and always took care of his parents, even in their later years. Albert took his Dad, Tsuyoshi “Tee” Okura, to work with him every day despite how difficult that may have been. One day Albert was giving a speech at his restaurant to the San Bernardino Historical Association and he gave an acknowledgment to his elderly father. Albert explained his father was in his nineties and still coming to work every day, so they would never hear Albert complaining. The older Okura loved to go to work with his son, and warmed tortillas or peeled potatoes. As the third generation oldest son, it occurred to Kyle it was going to be him in front of an audience someday in the future giving a shout-out to his still-working Dad. Albert’s Dad died one day short of his 100th birthday. Albert took care of him to the very end. Albert had always said he would live to be a 120 years old himself, but over time Albert changed it to 110 years, then finally 100 years.
Kyle said his father’s passing at age 71 on January 27, 2023, was a complete shock. Kyle recalled he drove Albert to the hospital without realizing how sick his Dad was. Although very weak, Albert was
still calling his managers and discussing business with them, even down to the tortilla orders. Albert never wanted to spend a minute where he didn’t feel he was some kind of use. Albert didn’t even realize how gravely ill he was, so the family never got a chance to say their final goodbyes. Kyle wasn’t able to tell his father how he had changed their lives for the positive, or how deeply loved he was. Kyle said they received a call from the hospital at 4 a.m. telling them Albert was in the ICU. He had serious health conditions but died of sepsis.
Upon news of Albert’s sudden passing, the devastated crew at Juan Pollo, the McDonald Museum and Amboy worried about what the future would hold because it is common for businesses to dissolve once the patriarch died. The Okura family reassured everyone that Albert had meant so much to them it would be a dishonor to not continue what Albert always referred to as his destiny. Kyle teared up and said his lifelong goal was to make his hero proud of him. Albert was always the first person he called when he was trying to solve issues and always got so excited to talk with him. He cherished the last six years he worked with his Dad every day because it was the most time he ever got to spend with him. Albert is buried at Rose Hills Cemetery in Whittier.
Kyle continued by saying if people called his Dad the Chicken King, then they can call Kyle the Pollo Prince. He said although he may not be known as the one who saved Amboy, he wants to be known as the one who brought it back to life. Kyle added the importance of Amboy is even bigger than himself or his Dad. Many of the thousands of people who pass through Amboy can account for what makes Amboy special to them. Route 66 is the Mother Road of our country. In two years, Route 66 will be celebrating its 100th year anniversary.
Coming from the restaurant business, Kyle admitted he knew nothing about running a gas station or plumbing and electrical in Amboy, but he persevered and learned everything on the go. Kyle said it was rough going at the beginning. All the employees quit on the same day. His best friend, Logan, and he worked together covering in Amboy. That night they slept on two old couches pushed together in a bitterly cold warehouse without insulation. They used two 4-XXXX size Amboy sweatshirts for covers to stay warm. Although it seemed there was an infinite amount of problems in Amboy, it was one of Kyle’s craziest adventures. One day Kyle was driving with his Mom
Amboy town manager, Kenneth Large, the man, the myth, the legend.
When Kyle was young his Dad taught him about the American Dream, something he really believed in. “America,” he said, “was the greatest country in the world. You can be anyone and come from anywhere, and you can have the freedom to choose who you want to be, and believe whatever you want to believe.” Albert said he came from nothing, and reminded Kyle about all he had. Kyle ended his heartfelt speech by saying he loves and misses his Dad and will make sure the whole world knows his father’s name and legacy. We know in our hearts Kyle’s super hero is very proud of him.
Also in attendance at the unveiling ceremony were Juan Pollo employees who had worked with Albert Okura years before Kyle was born. Kyle said his father died one year short of Juan Pollo’s 40th anniversary this year. Everyone who knew Albert understood how passionate he was about the idea of destiny. Some may refer to it as your calling in life, or your fate, but Albert always called it destiny. Even in his earlier life, Albert would say he had a destiny to fulfill but he didn’t know what it was yet. Later, he reiterated his destiny was to sell more chicken than anyone else in the world, before his heart led him to Amboy.
As Kyle’s speech concluded, he said Amboy now has an amazing team that keeps things running smoothly. He acknowledged Miss Nicole has been his longest employee at Amboy. He shared he couldn’t have done without her. Also, Wayne has been instrumental because he fixed all the stuff that Kyle didn’t know how to do. Wayne kept his plane at Amboy airport during the restoration. Kenneth Large is the town manager, and is another
one of the reasons Amboy, like a phoenix, has risen from the ashes. The audience gave the humble threesome a resounding applause.
Thank you to artist John Cerney for donating the trio of roadside murals to Amboy following an article in the LA Times. Albert’s is over 14 feet tall. Our thanks too for your support to Laura Misajet, Executive Director of Mojave Desert Heritage and Cultural Association at Goffs Schoolhouse Museum.
There are three historical markers in Amboy erected by E Clampus Vitus, located at Roy’s Cafe, Roy’s Motel and St. Raymond Catholic Church. The monument and murals are the Clampers’ fourth installment in Amboy. What are the Clampers, you may ask? The ancient and honorable order of E Clampus Vitus
(ECV) is a fraternal organization dedicated to the preservation of the heritage of the American West. ECV began in 1849 in the California gold country. There are currently 80,000 active members and 57 chapters in seven states. The Billy Holomb Chapter 1069 oversees the mountains and the desert. Albert became a member of ECV after he acquired Amboy in 2005. Thank you Clampers and Okura family!
Please refer to our article for more photos of the event and recommended resources: https:// www.thedesertway.com/amboymonument-murals/
Above the carefully crafted historical monument is the Okura family crest.
One Hundred And One Years Later Part One
By J.P.Garner
DAYS COME AND GO. Years too. And things change so rapidly. A new iPhone comes out every six months it seems and so many of us are compelled to upgrade because of all the neat things it can do. In fact, I was watching a documentary about our first ventures into space and learned how there’s more technology in the iPhone we hold in our hands than all that was used to put a man on the moon.
Isn’t that amazing? And it’s only the beginning. Now we have AI tantalizing us with its capabilities and potential. What will come of it and how will it aid us without taking over is open to speculation and, hopefully, such concerns are the stuff of science fiction and not science fact. We are, philosophers and the readers of tea leaves argue, just beginning to really think for ourselves that we should have something else think for us.
But change is a constant, is it not? Specifically, the changes seen in our every day lives and especially in the last one hundred and one years. To make an assessment between what was and what is, I consulted with a witness to the passage of that time. My goal was to determine if we, as people, have changed or is it only our toys, devices, and tools that have duped us into thinking we have advanced as a specie.
Our witness to history is June Langer, a resident of Apple Valley and a valued member of our town’s writer’s club. She was born on June 21st, 1923 . . . one hundred and one years ago in Chicago, Illinois. “It was called the Windy City [but not] because there’s a lot of wind coming off the lake. It was named after the ‘windy’ politicians. They were considered the windiest ones around,” she explains with a wry smile.
Leap forward to 2024, and “windy” politicians are no longer confined to Chicago or the state of Illinois because of television and the introduction of massive flatscreens to America’s living rooms. To our chagrin or utter confusion, “windy” politicians can now be found everywhere and with the advent of the internet, most often on our laptops, which, in themselves, are a marvel of science not even dreamed of in 1923.
Back then, iceboxes were really iceboxes because large chunks of ice were delivered
daily to homes to keep food refrigerated. Now we have refrigerators that talk to us. What, I wonder, would be the subject of that conversation?
Where she played as a child was in the street. There were no yards or playgrounds. The boys, she said, “played baseball while the girls jumped rope. Double Dutch.” That’s two ropes at one time. She wasn’t very good at that. The street, though, was surprisingly safe. When a car came, they’d move to the sides and allow it to pass then resume playing when it was clear. They did this without any adult supervision. They didn’t worry about pedophiles or about being abducted. Not like we do today. It almost like the more gadgets we developed, the more we have to worry about . . . the more kids are targeted.
School for her was a big, brick building, three stories high. It went from kindergarten to eighth grade and was named after a Dutchman: Van Vlissingen. “Not many people could pronounce that.” June said. She went on, “The teachers I had were very good. I liked them. We didn’t have any men teachers. Not because it was forbidden. But because there just wasn’t many of them around.” When I asked her what was her favorite subject, she was quick to say, ”I liked them all. I loved school. When I was six years old, I made up my mind that I was going to be a teacher.”
Readin’, ritin’ and rithmatic’ was taught and absorbed without much fuss or fanfare, she explained. There were no school shootings or talk of teachers carrying guns and there were no cell phones for students to routinely consult during class. A teacher’s authority was unquestioned. Heck, they were even allowed to spank students back then. Not anymore, of course, but parents in the distant past supported teachers.
“My mother told me that the teachers
were my parents when she wasn’t around. You have to obey your teachers.” It was like the eleventh commandment. And, strangely, learning occurred in this environment, even though they didn’t know what we now do about how kids learn.
But at the age of nineteen, life happened and in a big way. Her dream to become a teacher was interrupted by a world war. The BIG one. She was in her second year of college when everything was changed by the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. Young men went to war and women went to work. Supporting the war effort was everything. Food, gas, rubber, even sugar was rationed. The entire country was focused on winning.
“Before the war, in the 30s, women stayed home. But during the war, the women had to go to work because there were no young men to fill the jobs.
“I went to work in a war factory called Automatic Transportation Company that made lift trucks for the Navy. I worked there for three years as an inspector. I wasn’t a nailer. I inspected gears, drive shafts, rockets, everything that had to be heat treated. I inspected to see if it was hard enough and that there were no cracks in it. I never missed.
“They never found a crack,” she added with some pride.
When asked how was she treated by the men she worked with, she didn’t hesitate answering. “Real nice,” she said. Then, with a smile, as if the event she was recalling had recently happened, she said, “This was where I met my husband.”
Continued in part two
Jared Boxes
THE LOCAL IOTA XI CHAPTER of DKG, an International Society for Key Women Educators, recently put together Jared Boxes. Jared Boxes bring the gift of play to young patients as they navigate through their hospital experience. These boxes were donated to Loma Linda Children’s Hospital.
Each box was filled with a book, small gifts, toys, games, crayons, coloring books, and fun activities.
Here is the story behind the Jared Boxes:
Jared McMullen was diagnosed with an incurable brainstem tumor in 1999. He carried a backpack full of toys and games to all appointments and questioned why the other children didn’t bring toys to their exam rooms.
Jared shared his toys and invited the other children to join him in a game of UNO. At just 5 years old, he demonstrated faith, wisdom and compassion for others.
Jared’s classmates sought to honor his memory and created boxes filled with toys for the patients at Geisinger Janet Weis Children’s Hospital.
What was intended as a one-time project has grown into a nonprofit that reaches into the hearts of children and their families across 50 states. Pictured is DKG member Sue Newton and staff members from Loma Linda Children’s Hospital.
The Jared Box Project is promoted and sustained by volunteers. It is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Slice of Life THE ENERGIZER RABBIT
SHE MUST BE ON WHEELS, she moves so fast in and around the tables at Corky’s, serving up breakfast to a hungry crowd with the ease of a ballet dancer, but her sense of balance and the plates of food she carries are not disturbed by an errant elbow or foot. She weaves a path through an obstacle course of tables and appendages, delivering hot food and making people smile.
They can’t help it because she’s smiling too. Beaming from ear to ear. It’s not simply the food’s arrival that prompts the customers to respond in kind, but the manner in which the service is rendered. It is warm and genuine, and most welcome, in this, the best season of the year. And it’s exactly what Yolanda does during the holidays and all the days after.
Today’s Woman Foundation Hosts 5th Annual Christmas Event
The Today’s Woman Foundation spread holiday cheer to 13 high desert families in early December during their 5th Annual Children’s Christmas Party in Apple Valley. The joyful celebration included Santa and his elves, who surprised attendees with personal gifts from their wish lists.
The children enjoyed a day filled with food, laughter, games, and crafts. Families embraced the joy of the season through generosity and a sense of community.
Today’s Woman Foundation expresses sincere appreciation to Choice Medical for their steadfast support of this beloved tradition. Their sponsorship has been essential in bringing the joy of Christmas to local families in need.
This event highlights the Foundation’s dedication to creating a positive impact in the lives of those they serve, fostering hope and joy during the holiday season and beyond.
Santa Claus
Join us at our B2B Networking Event on January 8th, 2024, from 7 PM to 10 PM located at The BIG ROCK (1828 CA Highway 138, Pinon Hills, CA).
Get the opportunity to connect with business leaders, participate in Sponsor Spotlight, and explore various booths showcasing innovative local businesses. Whether you’re looking to expand your network or discover new business opportunities, this event is ideal for you!
Get more details on our website: https://pinonhillsthegateway.com/
3D Mammograms with Lunit INSIGHT AI (Free to patients)
CT Screenings
IR Procedures
MRI Screenings
PET Scans Ultrasounds X-Ray
Don’t miss out...events are fillin’
WOW CALENDAR OF EVENTS FOR JANUARY 2025
OUR REGULAR SATURDAY MEETINGS ARE HELD AT THE TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH 16138 MOLINO DRIVE VICTORVILLE CA 92395 EXCEPT ON 3RD SATURDAYS WHEN WE MEET AT DENNYS ON MAIN STREET IN HESPERIA
WE ARE MEETING ON NEW YEARS DAY, JANUARY O1: AT 3PM FOR HAPPY HOUR. WE MEET REGULARLY ON FIRST WEDNESDAY EVERY MONTH, AND IT HAPPENS TO FALL ON JAN 1ST. WE MEET AT LA CASITAS AT THE LAKE IN APPLE VALLEY
• JAN O1: WEDNESDAY 3PM HAPPY HOUR
• JAN 04: SATURDAY 9AM JANUARY BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION, NEW YEARS RESOLUTIONS AND BINGO WITH SCRATCH TICKETS FOR THE WINNERS
• JAN 11: SATURDAY 9AM SPEAKER FROM CITY OF VICTORVILLE, IVY ESQUVAL WILL TALK ABOUT ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAMS IN VICTORVILLE
• JAN 18: SATURDAY 10 AM BREAKFAST AT DENNYS ON MAIN STREET IN HESPERIA
• JAN 25: SATURDAY 9 AM A PRESENTATION VIA VIDEO AND AUDIO OF MUSICALS OF THE 60’S PRESENTED BY TOM REYNOLDS
SWIM January Speakers
Jan 2
Happy New Year No Meeting
Jan 9 The History of Whiskey
Paul Sebastian
Jan 16 Five Not-So-Easy Pieces/Orchestra Pieces
Thomas Lecoq
Jan 23 Wildlife Photography
Moses Sparks
Jan 30 What Is Wrightwood Place?
Judy Bryson
Seniors With Inquiring Minds (SWIM) meets every Thursday from 1:00-2:00 PM in the Percy Bakker Community Center located at 9333 Avenue “E” In Hesperia, CA 92345
Friends if the Victorville Library
BOOK SALE
Tuesday Jan 14, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. $5/bag.
Christmas Magic with Main Street Murals
By John Wease
MAIN STREET MURALS is the 501c3 non-profit organization responsible for the murals along the Historic Route 66 in Barstow. Formed in 1997 by local businesswoman Juliette Tison and likeminded business owners and artists, their goal was to revitalize the downtown area. They are “dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the historical, ecological, and cultural heritage of the Mojave Desert through the development of creative art, education, and recreation opportunities that enrich the community and attract tourism, illustrating Barstow’s past to enhance the future.”
Main Street Murals has created some thirty-five murals, including some for surrounding communities. Main Street Murals Director, Jane LaramanBrockhurst, leads monthly bus tours of the murals on the third Saturday of the month. The bus tour is an easy way to view many of the murals and all can be viewed on their website. They could be seen on a walking tour as the Barstow murals are all located within the downtown area. The tours are free but as with any non-profit, donations are appreciated.
Main Street Murals also works with local schools to promote art. Some of the school art programs culminate with the students helping to create a mural after studying the historical or cultural significance. Another way they share the growing gallery of public art and give back to the community is their annual Christmas mural tour. They apparently have a great deal of clout. As busy as he must be now, they managed to have Santa at their event.
It is a magical time for the local youngsters and the tour requires a vehicle somewhat more magical than a boring bus. Of course, as it is a tour of the murals, a good view is necessary. Were you thinking of a stagecoach? If so, you nailed it. But not any kind of normal stagecoach. We would need a lot more magic while we are at it, please. Let’s use a four-wheel drive, V-8 powered stagecoach. Let’s use one of the wonderful quirky creations of Rodney Rucker and have him drive it. And that is what they used.
Santa had a nice seat on the roof. If there had been a chimney he could have gone up as usual. Everyone knows there is no chimney in a stagecoach. Even a magical stagecoach. It is a good thing Rodney had the foresight to put an elevator inside. With Santa on the roof, the excited children sat inside, and the head elf guided Randy on the mural tour. The elf looked amazingly like Jane Laraman-Brockhurst.
Following behind the stagecoach was another elf driving a sleigh loaded with candy, snacks, and bags of gifts. Well,
it really wasn’t a sleigh or an elf. It was master muralist Ray Valles in his Model A “rat rod” pickup truck. I’m sure the reindeer were resting up for their upcoming long night of travels. At the end of every tour, gifts were given to each child.
Many of the groups were children from Kimberly Hammack’s On The Rise organization for foster children from Barstow and the surrounding communities. Another group were the children from the Farmers for Future Generations after school program of Pastor Charles and Gwen Patrick in Newberry Springs. Any photos with children in this article are either the Patrick’s group or local residents that came by, were allowed to participate, and gave permission. For privacy and security reasons, I was asked to not take or publish photos of the foster children. Their ages ranged from two to twelve years old. All seemed to really enjoy the tours and the visit with Santa. Maybe some will be artists themselves someday because of this experience.
H O I C E U R G E N T C A R E Feel Better Faster!
Visit Urgent Care for non-life-threatening issues that require prompt attention but can't wait for a regular appointment.
We offer each patient concierge-level service by providing care under guidance of board-certified Emergency Physicians.
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WHAT CAN AN URGENT CARE DO?
WHAT CAN AN URGENT CARE DO?
Go to the Urgent Care for common things that need to be treated soon, not life-threating needs but can’t wait for an appointment.
Go to the Urgent Care for common things that need to be treated soon, not life-threating needs but can’t wait for an appointment.
Allergic reaction
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WHAT IS AN EMERGENCY?
Go to the Emergency Room if your symptoms are severe, life threatening or come on suddenly.
Broken bone, shifted out of place
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