DESERT LOCAL NEWS • MAY 23, 2009 MEMORIAL DAY EDITION ©

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AUSSIETHUNDER FROM DOWN UNDER

Photo by Cathy Jardine

Music festival at Joshua Tree

2009

DESERT HOT SPRINGS, CA- After all the votes were

counted Tuesday night into Wednesday morning, the measure A, which would save the Police Department for the city of Desert Hot Springs passed by a whopping 74.6 percent!

“It’s a historic day for Desert Hot Springs,” said Mayor Yvonne Parks on Tuesday night as the first round of votes were counted. Even District Attorney Rod Pacheco gave his congratulations via a text message to City Manager Rick Daniels.

After the Tuesday night city council meeting, council members and staff got together at the Capri Restaurant to hear the results of the election.

Former City Councilwoman Mary Stephens was also there, in support of the measure. “I always vote Yes when it comes to the city,” she said.

Measure A would have required 66% or better to pass. This would raise utility users taxes by 2 percent to help fund four new police officers and help keep the rest of the police department going.

If failed, the police department would have faced deep, dramatic cuts.

Residents of the city were also just as eager to have to pay more for added police protection, as has been reported previously.

Measure A will also benefit the fire department, and also have to create an additional fire

station, which will help relieve the current one at the corner of Pierson Boulevard and West Drive, which is technically the city’s only fire station.

Back in 2000, the original utility users tax was designed to help the city keep its police department, after three years in operation. This tax was scheduled to sunset in June of 2010. Now, thanks to Measure A, this tax will continue for another ten years.

However, voter turnout in Desert Hot Springs was low, as only less than 2,000 votes were counted. Dot Reed, a citizen, reported that she only saw three people at the polls when she paid a visit earlier on Tuesday.

22 DESERT HOT SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA

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Measure Passes

by 75%!!!

BY LESLIE ANDREWS

City officials, staff, DHSPD and others gathered to watch the returns of Measure A, which will fund four more police officers for Desert Hot Springs (the measure passed by a 3 to 1 vote - amazing. At the time these photos were taken we were still waiting to get the results. ~Photo by Bruce Montgomery

A

3DESERT LOCAL NEWS MAY 23, 2009 3

DESERT HOT SPRINGS, CA-Residents of Desert Hot

Springs who use Desert Valley Disposal for their trash services came angry as hell to the Tuesday night City Council meeting, hoping to see some changes.

For example, Dana Hope, an occasional resident of the city, has argued with the city over the mandatory trash collection fees, which she didn’t feel she had to pay. “They’re still billing me from February, and the ordinance didn’t take place until September,” she said. “They were so rude and underhanded and I’m sick of the way they treat us. We have

perfect credit, we always follow the law. Where is that money going? I’m tired of their nasty service.”

Even City Council members like Mayor Pro Tem Karl Baker agree that homeowners who live in their Desert Hot Springs homes as vacation properties should not have to be charged for services when they’re not in town. “I think it’s unreasonable,” Baker said. “There are many vacant rentals and they are all being charged for their trash pickup, and there’s no trash. If we could change the ordinance, that would be great.”

The current ordinance mandates that all homeowners

must have trash pickup service and must pay for it one way or another. Council member Jan Pye remembered, “In 2001, we were dealing with this.”

Councilman Russell Betts was concerned about the credit scores of these residents. “Does this impact somebody’s credit score?” he asked. “I think this needs to be looked at. I’d like to hear more offers from staff.”

Amongst all of the accounts DVD has, there are 1,292 that are in some sort of delinquency. Mayor Yvonne Parks said, “If you don’t have trash barrels, you shouldn’t have to pay for the service. We cannot throw the baby out with the bathwater.”

Some simply believe that DVD needs to do something about their customer service. Some residents believe that those people who work for the trash company are simply rude.

And so, the City Council voted 4 to 1 to place these delinquent DVD billings on the County’s tax rolls for the upcoming fiscal year. Betts objected.

Residents have the option of including their trash service pickup fees onto their property taxes. The general fees for trash pickup are $34.00 per month.

BY LESLIE ANDREWS

©

ARudy M. has complaints about trash service~Photo Bruce Montgomery

Even though they have never had trash service, don’t even have trash cans, they are still billed for service - something the city promises to look

into ~Photos Bruce Montgomery

DVD Trash Talk

4 THE MATT WEYUKER COLUMN MAY 23, 2007

STEREOPSIS

When I was a young man, Memorial Day was called “Decoration Day.” It was a day set aside to remember those who gave their lives for our country, and that we as our nation’s future generations would be able to taste the fruit of their deaths, and live in freedom.

The original Decoration Day came about when General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, in his “General Order No. 11,” proclaimed May 30, 1868 as a day to honor the brave soldiers who had died during the Civil War. On May 30, 1868, flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery.

This “in memoriam” day is now celebrated on the last Monday in May (passed by Congress with the “National Holiday Act of 1971” – P.L 90-363, to insure three day weekends for federal holidays).

Traditional observance of Memorial Day has diminished over the years. Some people use the three-day weekend to get away, or have good time with drinking and eating. However, thank goodness we here in Desert Hot Springs still honor our

courageous servicemen and women who have given their lives for our country.

One of the most touching of all our Memorial Day commemorations happens like this – on the Thursday before THE DAY, 1,200 soldiers of the famed 3rd U.S. infantry place small American flags at each of the 250,000 gravestones at Arlington National Cemetery. They then patrol this

national shrine 24-hours a day during the weekend to ensure that the flags are still standing.

In 1951, the Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts of St. Louis began placing American flags on the 150,000 graves at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery as an annual “Good Turn,” an emotionally patriotic

practice that continues to this day.To help re-educate and remind

Americans of the true meaning of Memorial Day, the “National Moment of Remembrance” resolution was passed in December 2000, and asks that at 3PM

local time, that all Americans, “Voluntarily and informally observe in their own way a Moment of Remembrance and Respect, pausing from whatever they are doing for a moment of silence or listening to Taps.”

The Moment of Remembrance is a step in the right direction, as it returns the true meaning to Memorial Day. What is needed now more than ever, is a full return to original day of remembrance

– to set aside one day out of the year for our nation to come together to remember, reflect, and honor those who have given their lives in service to America.

We need to return the solemn, sacred spirit back to Memorial Day, and its traditional day of observance for those Americans who gave their all for our freedoms.

“We cherish too, the Poppy redThat grows on fields where valor led,

It seems to signal to the skiesThat blood of heroes never dies.”

By Moina Michael

BY MATT WEYUKER

Memorial Day 2009

Former Mayor Matt Weyuker

Theatre 29 is beginning the process of selecting plays, comedies, dramas and musicals for their 2010 season. Area theatrical directors are being invited to submit suggested plays for consideration. Directors can request a particular time slot but are not guaranteed their requested time frame will be available.

The Theatre 29 play selection committee will review all requests and submit a recommended 2010 season line-up to the Board of Directors for review, the Board will make the final determination.

Directors are reminded that Theatre 29 is dedicated to producing plays that

are family-oriented and will attract a general audience. Directors submitting for the 2010 season must submit a script and an estimation of the shows budget, including, at least, estimated royalties and script costs.

Theatre 29 is an all volunteer Non-Profit Community theater that operates as an independent 501(c)3 tax exempt organization. All Directors, Performers, backstage crew and theatre staff are unpaid volunteers. Musicals are allowed a stipend budget for musicians.

Theatre 29 will present six or seven productions during the 2010 calendar year. Each play will run 12 performances

over a 5 week run. Each play will have a Thursday performance the third week and a matinee the fourth week. matinees will be on Saturdays or Sundays at the discretion of the director. The schedule allows for a minimum 7 week rehearsal cycle. All shows are produced at the John Calveri Theater at 73637 Sullivan Road in the City of Twentynine Palms.

The deadline for submissions is June 30, 2010. Directors can review their responsibilities on the Directors page at www.theatre29.com . For further information call Theatre 29 Board President Gary Daigneault at 760-366-8471.

THEATRE 29 ACCEPTING SUBMISSIONS FOR 2010 SEASON

5DESERT LOCAL NEWS MAY 23, 2009

BY STAFF ARAAs summer rolls around,

you may find yourself getting that familiar anxious feeling in the pit of your stomach. No, not just because it is time to slip into a swimsuit (that’s an entirely different issue to contend with). You’re probably getting antsy thinking about all the money you are going to spend at home while the kids are on summer vacation.

But shake off those blues and face the sunshine. Hannah Keeley, lifestyle expert and host of the PBS program “Hannah, Help Me!” offers easy ways to cut costs and still enjoy

a cool, comfortable summer with your family.

Be appliance “smart.”Clothes dryers are

notorious for sucking up a lot of the energy used in your home. Pull out the heavier items, such as blankets, towels and blue jeans, and let them hang dry on a line outside or even over the doors inside of your home.

Dishwashers are a great convenience, but that convenience comes at a price. Don’t run your machine unless it is completely full. Also, consider opening the door of your dishwasher when it hits the drying cycle so your dishes

air dry and you save money.Re-think your routine and

old habits.No need to take long

showers after a day at the pool or beach. Pick up a timer and set a time limit for every person in the family (yes, even the teenagers). Five minutes per person should do, not to mention help prevent your family from pouring money down the drain. Turn off the water when conditioning hair, shaving or brushing teeth to further conserve energy.

Even when they are not in use, electronics like stereos, TVs and DVD players continue to drain energy. Those commonly found, bulky “wall wart” plugs that feel warm to the touch even if the device is turned off are costing you money. Plug all electronic equipment into power strips and simply switch them off when not in use, or if your family is away from home, and you’ll see instant savings on your electric bill. And turn off those computer monitors when

not in use.Stay Cool.For every degree you raise

your thermostat in the summer, you can cut cooling costs up to six percent, depending on your lifestyle, system settings and local climate. Install a programmable thermostat to help conserve energy and save money on your cooling bills with very little effort on your part. You might also consider installing a variable speed air handler, such as those offered by American Standard Heating & Air Conditioning, which reduces moisture levels in the air so you can keep the thermostat at a higher setting and still feel comfortable.

Keeley reminds us that in just a few simple steps, you can have more fun, enjoy your family, and save some serious money this summer. “And it all starts at home,” Keeley says.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Simple solutions to save money at home this summer

©

6 DESERT LOCAL NEWS MAY 23, 2009 DESERT LOCAL NEWS MAY 23, 2009

Did You Know?There are many ways to pay your MSWD bill:

• Via the Web - visit www.MSWD.org to set up your username and pay your bill online with your debit or credit card.

• SafePay Auto Debit - your payment may be auto-matically deducted from your checking account each month.

• By Mail - send your check and bill stub to MSWD, 66575 Second Street, Desert Hot Springs, CA 92240

• In Person - pay at the lobby customer service window or drop your payment into our convenient drop box beside the door.

Pay Your Bills Online at www.MSWD.org!

Water...~ The Jewel of the Desert ~

Treasure it!

NOW AVAILABLE!Online Bill Pay at MSWD

Conservation - It’s a Way of Life!

5DESERT LOCAL NEWS • FEBRUARY 4, 2009 DESERT LOCAL NEWS MAY 23, 2009 7

Summer 2009 may be a bit less dry than last year in some areas of the country, according to the National Weather Service’s Seasonal Drought Outlook. But it still makes sense, both environmentally and economically, to conserve water as much as possible in your gardening and landscaping efforts.

“Nothing shouts ‘green’ quite like a thriving garden or a lush landscape,” says Susan Thayer, an irrigation and water conservation expert, “. . . except, perhaps, a beautiful yard or garden that’s been nurtured with green practices that conserve precious water.”

While drought in some mid-northern areas is expected to improve, dry conditions will likely persist in areas such as California, Texas, Florida and

North Carolina, according the Seasonal Drought Outlook map. One thing that isn’t likely to change anytime soon, however, is the need to cut costs and conserve resources during an economic recession.

Conserving water makes sense environmentally, and can also help your family reduce your water utility bill this summer.

It is possible to grow a thriving garden and nurture a lovely landscape while minimizing water consumption and saving money on your water bill. A combination of native-friendly plants, smart agricultural practices, alternative water sources and efficient irrigation can help keep gardens and lawns growing healthy throughout dry summer months.

Here are some tips for conserving water and saving money by reducing your water bill in your corner of planet.

* Choose drought-resistant native plants for your landscaping needs. Your options won’t be limited to cactus, either. From ornamental grasses to shrub roses, many drought-tolerant native species also offer bright color and visual

appeal. Look for plants that do well in the driest conditions found in your geographic region. Your local Cooperative Extension office can help you identify plants that are right for your area. You’ll also find plenty of ideas online at sites like www.gardeners.com.

* Groom soil for optimum water absorption and retention.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service recommends adding water-retaining organic material to your soil. You can also reduce evaporation by using mulch in landscaping beds.

* Look for alternative water sources other than the outdoor tap - such as collecting the water that drains from your air conditioner. Consider collecting roof runoff in a rain barrel for use in flower beds and vegetable gardens.

* Irrigate efficiently with low-volume irrigation systems and smart watering practices. Many communities now require all newly built homes to use low-volume irrigation in their landscapes. On average, micro sprinklers and drip irrigation uses 80 to 90 percent less water than traditional irrigation systems.

Irrigation manufacturers like Mister Landscaper are responding to increased consumer demand for low-volume systems by offering micro sprinkler and drip products that homeowners can easily install on their own. Mister Landscaper’s Micro Sprinkler Starter Kits efficiently

and slowly irrigate flower and vegetable gardens, as well as areas where trees and shrubs grow. They are available in the plumbing department at Lowe’s Home Improvement stores or online at www.misterlandscaper.com. The system also offers a variety of retrofit products that allow you to replace or add on to an existing underground pvc sprinkler system so you can convert 120 gallons per hour (gph) heads to a 10 gph micro spray or 1-2gph dripper.

“The key is to apply water only exactly when and where it is needed,” Thayer says. Drip and micro spray irrigation provide optimum efficiency with minimum waste and over spray.

* Design your landscaping to minimize evaporation. Windbreaks and fences slow the movement of the wind over the ground and the evaporation it causes, according to the Natural Resources Conservation Service.

To learn more about low-volume irrigation, visit www.misterlandscaper.com. For more information on water conservation, go to www.nrcs.usda.gov.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Micro sprinklers apply water only when and where it is needed, conserving water and lowering your utility bills.

On average, micro sprinklers and drip irrigation use 80 to 90 percent less water than traditional irrigation.

Water-conserving, money-saving tips for summer gardens

8 DESERT LOCAL NEWS MAY 23, 2009

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Historically women are the shapers of home and family. But many women today extend their nurturing role to the entire community through activism and charity work that has a significant impact in the lives of individuals and society as a whole.

L’Oreal of Paris is sponsoring its fourth annual “Women of Worth” grassroots awards program to honor women from across the country for their inspiring volunteer work and community enrichment initiatives.

Now through July 13, you

can visit www.WomenofWorth.com to nominate a woman whose volunteerism is making a beautiful difference in your world. This year, 10 “Women of Worth” honorees will receive $5,000 for their most cherished causes and a $5,000 donation will be made on their behalf to ovarian cancer research and awareness initiatives. An online public vote will be held to select the winner this fall. The winning woman will receive a $25,000 monetary donation to her nonprofit organization.

How you can recognize a woman who makes a difference in your community

BY STAFF ARA

9 DESERT LOCAL NEWS MAY 23, 2009

General John Stark was a hero of the Revolutionary war and among his battles was the Battle of Bennington (VT) in 1777 which prevented the British from dividing the colonies into two parts. Many consider this campaign to be the key to our eventual victory. Stark knew how vital it was to be victorious on that day. He urged a fight to the death. He emboldened his troops by saying, “There they are boys, we beat them today or Molly Stark sleeps a widow tonight.” Powerful!

Few people know the above, but they do know, “Live free or die.” This is the famous motto of the State of New Hampshire. However, it is only a part of what Stark wrote. He said, “Live free or die. Death is not the worst of evil.” This was said in response to an invitation to a Battle of

Bennington commemoration held in 1809 and Stark was too ill to attend. It had its impact, New Hampshire is now ranked the best state in the entire US to do business.

We remember the words of John Stark after 200 years. How long will we remember the words of the current gang in Washington? Sacramento? ‘Live free’ is an extraordinary concept, but we must ask ourselves do we ‘live free’ when we want government health care, government mortgages, government social security, government child care, government education and government …

The history of the western world since 1945 has been quite consistent. Over and over again we have been asked to vote between government ‘security’

and freedom. We have not selected the latter very often. We are not free if every service known to man is provided by government. We are not free if we are in debt. The feds are in debt. California is in debt. Desert Hot Springs is in debt and most people are in debt to their nostrils.

The problem is we are being squeezed and we do not even know it. We are being squeezed by enormous government debt at all levels. At the local level (those governments unable to print money) the result of too much debt is insolvency and bankruptcy. We will see many cities seeking the courts for protection. At the federal level we devalue existing dollars by printing more, the result is inflation and unlimited dollars buying ever less.

Yet in spite of all this, as you are reading, some in Desert Hot Springs want the City to provide them with a dog park. For a moment please close your eyes and visualize this: General Stark is leading a raggedy assembly of farmers and tinkers. The neat, orderly, disciplined Brits in red are menacingly advancing, General Stark draws his saber, points it at the Brits and in a firm voice exhorts them, “Boys, remember we fight for a town dog park!” I think I am going to be ill.

Voting for more debt or deferring balanced budgets to some future date is to encase one’s future in financial shackles. If it is any money bill vote, NO! We must become fiscally responsible now.

To be continued …

The Squeeze is onBY HANK HOHENSTEIN Former Councilman

Hank HohensteinBennington commemoration and freedom. We have not Yet in spite of all this, as you

‘The problem is we are being squeezed and we do not even know it.’

Harry is very excited to begin his first season as the Manager for the Palm Springs POWER. As a retired resident of Lake Havasu, AZ he has been visiting Palm Springs for the past 3 years to enjoy the numerous golf opportunities and following the successful history of the POWER organization.

Gurley has built a very distinguished coaching and scouting career at all levels including the pros, college and high school. Most recently Gurley was the pitching coach at Ohio State University for the 2006 & 2007 seasons. During

that time, OSU led the Big Ten in team ERA and had their first 10-game winner since 1999.

Prior to working at OSU, Gurley was an assistant coach at Southern Illinois when the Salukis finished second at the 1971 NCAA College World Series. He was also a head High School coach in Arizona, Texas, and Missouri. During those stints, Gurley won a Missouri state championship, was an Arizona State championship runner up and won a Texas Regional championship.

In 1984, he spent one season as manager of the

Helena (Mont.) Gold Sox of the professional Pioneer League (Class A) and led them to the league championship.

Gurley also spent several years as an associate scout for the Kansas City Royals and the St. Louis Cardinals organizations.

With all of this coaching and managerial experience, it is no surprise that Gurley is no stranger to the collegiate summer baseball circuit either. In 1998, he was the pitching coach for the Nevada (Mo.) Griffins who won the Jayhawk Collegiate Baseball Summer League championship and

finish second in the NBC Tournament in Wichita, KS.

During Gurley’s distinguished coaching career, he has worked with over 35 players who have played affiliated professional baseball, including 12 players who have made it all the way to the Major Leagues. Four of his prized pitching pupils were also drafted in the 1st Round of the MLB Draft.

Gurley, has one daughter, Paige McCracken. She and her husband Mark, are the parents of Gurley’s two grandchildren, Will and Tess, who live in Kirkwood, Mo.

Meet Harry Gurley

C DESERT HOT SPRINGS REAL ESTATE10

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“MISSION LAKES COUNTRY CLUB” Bring your golf clubs because FREE GREEN FEES are included when you own a home. Low HOA of $250/mo includes golf for 2 on championship Ted Robinson designed course, riviera style heated pool, clubhouse, work out room, pro-shop and so many activities if you’re so inclined. Single fam-ily homes starting at $123,000. Call me for more info. 760-774-3557

“MISSION LAKES FAIRWAY HOME” Former model home, 4 Bdrm, 3 Bath, approx 2100 sqft, situated at the #3 Tee-box. Great views. Cov’d patio, Hot-Tub, Bar-B-Que. A must see at $319,900. Call me 760-774-3557.

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C DESERT HOT SPRINGS REAL ESTATE 11CALIFORNIA GREEN • DESERT LOCAL NEWS MAY 23, 2009

BY STAFF ARAAs green building and

remodeling practices become standard procedure, the use of more natural light and passive ventilation is here to stay.

Always high on homeowner remodeling wish lists, kitchens and bathrooms are logical candidates for daylighting and ventilation upgrades, according to Joe Patrick, senior product manager with VELUX America. “They, along with laundry rooms, have higher moisture and humidity levels than other areas of the home and are among the most popular locations for venting skylights,” he says. “And more natural light is always welcomed where clothes are being sorted by color.”

Patrick says that Energy

Star-qualified skylights are being used to a greater degree in remodeling, as well as in new construction, for these applications that reduce energy bills.

Consumers want their remodeling projects green, according to research by the National Association of Homebuilders. And the U.S. Green Building Council cites a McGraw-Hill study detailing a growing market for green homebuilding and green renovation, even amid a downturn in the housing market. Individual remodelers say that their clients are expressing more interest in options and upgrades that address indoor air quality and energy efficiency.

Patrick points out that in addition to transforming living

areas into brighter spaces, venting skylights use their natural chimney effect to passively exhaust volatile organic compounds through the natural movement of rising heated air.

“And skylights offer much more privacy than vertical windows without taking up valuable wall space that can be used for decorating or storage, a real benefit in baths and other remodeling applications,” Patrick says.

In areas where traditional skylights aren’t needed or won’t fit, Sun Tunnel tubular skylights can bring passive natural light into hallways, closets, smaller interior baths and other areas of the home. Less expensive in many cases than traditional skylights, they can be used extensively in areas of the home where a view to the outside is not required, but more natural light is desired. Optional light kits turn these units into 24-hour sources of light.

Modern skylights make one of the biggest fears of homeowners, leaks, a thing of the past. “Quality units offer separate, pre-engineered flashing kits for shingles, tile or

metal roofing materials,” Patrick says. “They are designed and engineered to prevent leaks over the full life of a roof and, properly installed, simply don’t leak.”

More natural light isn’t the only growing trend in green remodeling. Advances in technology, coupled with rising energy prices, are resulting in more interest in solar water heating systems when green-minded homeowners upgrade, and in new construction. “It’s yet another green use of an unlimited resource, the energy from the sun,” Patrick says.

For free information on the benefits of natural light and skylight selection, or for free house plans incorporating skylights, call (800) 283-2831 or visit veluxusa.com. For government information on window and skylight energy efficiency visit energystar.gov, and for independent agency information visit nfrc.org or efficientwindows.org. For remodeling information visit nahb.org/remodel or greenhomeguide.org.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

A bright idea for green remodeling: venting skylights

Adding more natural light and ventilation when remodeling provides both immediate and long-term benefits.

12 13

http://desertcitiesguides.com

Every day, Americans face situations that can raise significant legal issues. From starting a business to making a home purchase, shopping online to adoption, from divorce to bankruptcy, it’s often helpful -- and sometimes essential -- to get legal help to resolve problems if they arise.

A newly revised reference book, “The American Bar Association Complete Personal Legal Guide -- The Essential Reference for Every Household,” brings together the expertise of the ABA’s judges, lawyers and law professors to provide the average consumer with guidance in a practical, easy-to-understand format.

Additionally, the new book has tips on buying and selling real estate, fighting discrimination in the workplace, managing bankruptcy and creating wills, trusts, contracts and other legal documents. The updated version also provides a new chapter on legal matters facing the parents of children with special needs. Using real-life examples, the book provides straightforward information on these and other legal issues.

For more information on the book, visit www.ABALawInfo.org, which includes the “Top 10 Legal Issues for Families,” a podcast and a sample chapter.

How do you know when (or if) you need a lawyer?

12 13DESERT LOCAL NEWS MAY 23, 2009

Defying history, reality and common sense, Obama’s $3.5 trillion budget resolution passed by Congress earlier this month signals a dramatic shift in the priorities and scope of the federal government.

Not that most Americans are aware of this. The media has kept them pacified with extensive coverage of the ‘wasteful and duplicative’ $17 billion in cuts contained in the proposal. Cuts that represent one half of one percent of the proposed budget. Cuts that aren’t really cuts at all, merely a shifting of our tax dollares from a conservative program to a liberal one.

The Washington Examiner reports that Republican strategists are having a problem. “The scale of what President Barack Obama proposes to do to the American economy is so enormous, so far-reaching and so potentially disastrous that the opposition party is having a hard time describing it.” Well, I’m not a Republican strategist, I’m just one of the people in flyover country that has to pay for this fiasco and I have no trouble describing it:

Our budget deficit in 2009 will top $1.8 trillion dollars. That’s a 400% increase over last years’ deficit. Translation: For every dollar the government spends, .48 will be borrowed. Budget office figures released Monday would add $89 billion to the 2009 red ink — increasing it to more than four times last year’s all-time high.

One doesn’t have to be an economist or a degenerate gambler to know that a house built on sand eventually collapses. We’re already seeing it. The United States posted its first April deficit in 26 years, a record $20.91 billion shortfall. But not to worry, Obama is going to cut $17 billion. Whew.

Historical evidence of the economic harm caused by raising taxes in a recession is ignored as the Obama administration continues its frantic grab of ever larger portions of the dollars produced by the hardworking men and women of America.

President Obama’s “Budget Blueprint” proposes to raise the tax rate on dividends and capital gains from 15 percent to 20 percent. Heritage Foundation says: “This

works out to $27 billion of lost value for current and future retirees unnecessarily redistributed to Congress. That works out to $434 of lost retirement savings for each family.”

In case we the people object, Obama has also proposed nearly doubling funds to enforce U.S. tax laws next year, with an aim of more than quadrupling funding for tax compliance to $2.1 billion within five years. Tax compliance means IRS. You know, the agency that wields absolute power over each and every one of us. (Correction: over everyone who is not an elected official or heading up a government agency)

After successfully demonizing the oil companies, Obama offers a gift to all the underachievers and professional victims by socking it to the ‘rich’ - whose definition is constantly changing, kinda like the Constitution. Obama proposes to end $26 billion in oil and gas industry tax breaks, calling them ‘’unjustifiable loopholes’’ in the tax system that other companies do not get. Hey, I’m all for ‘equality’, aren’t you?

Next up: The Obama administration will propose $60 billion in new tax increases over 10 years on wealthy estates, businesses and others to pay for an expensive overhaul of the health-care system. After all, the rich are only rich because they exploited the poor. And the poor, (again, as defined by the left) have a right to health care, just as they now have the right to housing, education, absolute equality and the right not to be offended. Its called social justice. And its a wonderful thing, allowing our elites moral cover as they pick our pockets bare.

Meanwhile, the government revised estimates for the long-term solvency of Medicare and Social Security on Tuesday, moving up the date when trust funds for the entitlement programs will run out of money. It looks like Medicare will be insolvent in eight years, meaning, it will be the problem of the next administration. Most likely, a Republican administration, unless, of course, the GOP continues to emulate the left and ends up emulating themselves out of existence.

I know economics is a dreary subject. I

also know Obama is counting on economic ignorance, lofty rhetoric and a Democrat majority to pass this budget monstrosity. Having the media in his pocket doesn’t hurt.

Even with the media focusing on the $17 billion in cuts instead of the bigger picture, most Americans aren’t aware of what these ‘wasteful spending and unnecessary programs’ Obama is claiming as budget cuts include:

* Nixing aid to states to pay for jailing illegal immigrants

* Nixing abstinence only sex-education* Cutting in half a benefits program

for the families of slain police and safety officers

* Eliminating new funding for advanced-generation equipment to detect nuclear weapons and radiological materials at U.S. borders and ports and around New York City .

* Canceling plans to extend the border fence along the U.S.-Mexico border beyond the 670 miles already completed or planned.

* Cutting the budget of OLMS, the federal agency that investigates financial crimes that occur when union officials steal from their union

Each and every cut signifies the loss of a hard won battle fought by the 62 million people who didn’t vote for Obama. The 62 million people that now have absolutely no effective representation or say in the new and improved path our country is on. A path that has already led us to socialism.

But hey, just because socialism has failed every time its been tried doesn’t mean it will fail under Obama. And (when) if it does, Obama will just redefine failure, leaving conservatives, once again, to mop up the mess. And leaving the American people, once again, paying the very real price for yet another failed utopian vision that our elected officials could have avoided by merely studying history instead of indulging their own political fortunes at the expense of their country.

“Every government interference in the economy consists of giving an unearned benefit, extorted by force, to some men at the expense of others.”Ayn Rand

The Devil in the Details

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16 17JOSHUA TREE, CALIFORNIA

Joshua Tree Lake Campground was the site this past weekend of the Seventh Annual Joshua Tree Music Festival (JTMF) showcasing more than 25 musical acts on three stages during the course of three days, while also hosting a few thousand well-to-do campers, spiritualists and general peace-loving, consciousness-raising folks out to listen to some great live acts. Aside from pulse-pounding, dance-inducing acts like Materialized out of Oakland and The Nortec Collective from Tijuana, the festival was full of art installations, both large and small along with countless

activities that were geared for the family.

Billed as a festival where “the distinction between artist and audience is blurred,” JTMF encouraged attendees to “enjoy, celebrate, be kind and caring, elevate, recycle, dance, inspire, revel, radiate, get involved and be all you can be!” Certainly the festival’s general mood and vibe made doing all these things possible and organic. Starting with the activities and art being conducted all around the half-acre pond, there was Kidsville where children could ride the Love Train around the pond, or participate in Mural Mania, Kidz Yoga and even design and

conduct their own puppet show. The art installations in and around the campground offered surreal experiences, especially in juxtaposition to the high desert and beautiful sunsets in the background.

Dotted along the festival’s borders were booths were vendors sold the latest in counter-culture fashion, spiritual remedies, herbal teas, crystals and other goods.

But by far, the best action occurred after sunset when green lasers were shot through the air, resting on the mountains behind the campground, spelling out in large letters “JOSHUA TREE.” Inside the main stage

area, lasers bounced off the canopies overhead in all directions while the music blared tribal beats. And since the camping sites were so close to the stage, taking off back to camp and grabbing a quick bite or beverage was simple, cheap and accommodating. If one didn’t want to walk, festival sponsor Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. dominated the beer garden, serving up its wonderful pale ale.

For more on the Joshua Tree Music

Festival, go to www.desertcitiesentertainment.

com.

Music festival at Joshua Tree

STORY BY STEPHEN TORRES AND PHOTOS BY ALICIA GARCIA

16 17DESERT LOCAL NEWS ENTERTAINMENT MAY 23, 2009 Photos by A

licia Garcia

18

ALL PHOTOS BY LESLIE ANDREWS FOR DESERT LOCAL NEWS

Life is good. And now I want to live in Australia. Or at least visit frequently. Why? Obviously you have not seen the men of “Thunder From Down Under” because if you had, you would not have asked that question.

The Showroom was arranged in the traditional dinner show-style, so it was easy to roam around, looking for audience members with whom to chat. I introduced myself to some young ladies who were smart and cute and close to my age (okay, not REALLY that close). Demetria Robertson, Kimberlie LaPlante and Mandy Blake were thrilled to be there and with good reason. There were a few broken hearts and there is nothing like Thunder to mend (or at least distract) a broken heart.

I noticed three charming men at a large table. Art Quinones, Mike Genovan and Joe Ellenich, all of Palm Springs, were sitting together enjoying the evening’s people-watching aspect. It was about that time when the movie screens in the Showroom caught my eye. We all agreed that these beautiful Australian men deserved to be appreciated and admired, just for their beauty that they selflessly share with women seven nights a week in Las Vegas. It must be a very hard job.

The show began with a fairly simple dance routine performed by six men who were fully clothed. Occasionally they would throw a little “grabbing gesture” or “pelvic thrust” into the mix, and that would really get the audience

screaming.The men took turns doing their thing

solo. When this was the case, they would go into the den of wolves (also known as the intoxicated and excited audience) and pick someone to go on stage. This gal was then treated to a lap dance and more — Lucky Ann Benson! Her son treated her to the show for her birthday and she was picked out of the audience and brought on stage to “preview the merchandise” for the rest of us. She did a fine job and I am sure she will enjoy those Thunder moments for years to come.

For more about Thunder From Down Under, go to www.desertcitiesentertainment.com.

STORY BY MELISSA SCHOOS PHOTOS BY CATHY JARDINE Art Quinones, Mike Genovan and Joe Ellenich

Ann Benson with Thunder ~ Photo by Cathy Jardine

Thunder from Down UnderSPOTLIGHT 29 CASINO

19DESERT LOCAL NEWS MAY 23, 2009

Art Quinones, Mike Genovan and Joe Ellenich

Demetria Robertson, kimberlie LaPlante and Mandy Blake ~ Photo by Cathy Jardine

Melissa and Thunder

Thunder from Down Under

20 21

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DESERT HOT SPRINGS, Calif.,McCarthy Building Companies, Inc.,

one of Southern California’s preeminent builders specializing in educational facilities, recently began construction on the new Palm Springs Unified School District’s (PSUSD) Painted Hills Middle School. The district will kick-off the project with a formal groundbreaking ceremony at the project site on May 20, 2009.

Painted Hills Middle School will be located on a 22-acre site at 2950 Sonora Drive in Desert Hot Springs. Once opened in 2011, the school will be the PSUSD’s first middle school built since James Workman Middle School opened in 1995 and will accommodate up to 1,254 students.

“After a lengthy review and interview process by facility and business staff of 29 construction firms, the district selected McCarthy to build the new middle school project in the district’s on-going bond program,” said Julie Arthur, PSUSD executive director, facility planning. “McCarthy was awarded the construction contract due to the firm’s qualifications, similar work experience and resources.”

McCarthy will provide construction services for the 138,000-square-foot school and the extensive new infrastructure including electrical, drainage and water. They will also build out the remaining road access to the site. Construction cost is estimated at $39.5 million.

“We will be handling some of the construction activity in the morning hours to alleviate the challenges caused by desert weather conditions such as intense wind and hot temperatures occurring typically during the middle of the day,” said McCarthy Project Manager Michael Viveros.

Designed by Ruhnau Ruhnau Clarke Associates of Riverside, Calif., Painted Hills Middle School will be situated on a sloped site that offers dramatic mountain and valley views. The two-level school will be composed of classroom wings joined by the central administration and library/media center. The structures will be arranged around a central courtyard featuring an

outdoor amphitheater and the covered lunch shelter. The classrooms and labs are organized into interdisciplinary grade-level learning groups. Each classroom area is adjoined by shared small group instruction spaces and prep rooms for collaborative teaching opportunities. The library/media center, a computer lab, and elective classrooms are centrally located near the main entry of the school for student and

potential community use.“Painted Hills Middle School is designed

as a two-story, all-under-one-roof facility in response to site and environmental conditions,” explained Roger Clarke, principal with Ruhnau Ruhnau Clarke Associates. “The vertical design also provides an efficient facility that promotes the physical, mental and social development of the students. Multi-level educational facilities design is fast becoming a trend in the industry, due not only to some of the reasons mentioned above, but also because limited and costly land has made compact design an economically feasible solution.”

The multi-purpose room, with attached food service and locker rooms, anchors the courtyard, and has been designed for flexible use and function. To be used by both the student and community for assemblies, performances, dances, and indoor

sports, the multi-purpose room includes a basketball court, telescopic seating area for 660 people and platform stage that opens outdoors into the attached covered lunch shelter. Drama, band, and choir rooms are located nearby for direct access for performances. Food service functions can also be utilized for after hour’s events.

The architectural style of Painted Hills Middle School has inspired the use of an

earth tone color-scheme to highlight the exteriors. The interior colors will incorporate vivid base tones of blues and browns while accenting architectural details by using cool blues and warm wood tones. The use of bright graphics denoting inspiration, discovery, appreciation and innovation will help make the high traffic areas of the school not only energetic and pleasing but also educational. Yellow, gold and orange tones highlight the entrances of the interior giving a sense of orientation to those in the space.

“The color schemes reflect an understanding and deep concern for the environment,” said Clarke. “All of the colors, materials and finishes are sustainable, thereby contributing to the health, efficiency, and overall comfort of the people utilizing the space.”

Painted Hills Middle School is pursuing CHPS (Collaborative for High Performance Schools) certification. CHPS criteria, while similar to that of LEED, was created to “specifically facilitate the design of school learning environments that are healthy, comfortable, energy, resource, and water efficient; safe; secure; adaptable and easy to operate and maintain.” Much of Painted Hills Middle School’s sustainability will occur automatically, through the selection of energy efficient air conditioning, lighting, and water systems and passive design of the building.

The middle school is being built to relieve overcrowding at Desert Springs Middle School, which currently houses over 1,700 students. A part of the Measure T bond, the new middle school will be the fifth middle school in the district.

20 21DESERT LOCAL NEWS MAY 23, 2009

CONSTRUCTION BEGINS ON PAINTED HILLS MIDDLE SCHOOL IN DESERT HOT SPRINGS

©

22 DESERT HOT SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA • DESERT LOCAL NEWS MAY 23, 2009

Mayor Parks presented proclamations to Julius Corsini Elementary School Teachers in recognition of their accomplishments as recipients of the National Board of Professional Teaching Certification. Six teachers (including principal Bonelli) passed the first time they took the exam - Bonelli has every teacher in her school working on the

certification - unique among any school in the entire country. ~Photo by Bruce Montgomery

Mayor Parks presenting proclamation to Lisa Box ~Photo by Bruce Montgomery

Mayor Parks presenting proclamation to Lisa Anderson~Photo by Bruce Montgomery

23PROCLAMATION DAY IN DESERT HOT SPRINGS

Mayor Yvonne Parks and Firefighters ~Photo by Bruce Montgomery

Art Mercado receives certificate of appreciation from Chief David Avila for serving as a volunteer firefighter

~ Photo by Bruce Montgomery

Admiring Dad’s certificate

Volunteer Firefighters Mario Yanez and Tim Young are among those honored

Jason Simpson and Police Chief Daniels share a laugh

Pastor Gary Geesey and Volunteer Firefighter Matthew Loughead

DESERT LOCAL NEWS MAY 23, 2009

©

24

In this day and age, we all have to be careful about how we share information online. Browsing the Web is the single most popular activity on the PC -- with both the time people spend on the Web and the range of things they can do continuing to grow. With social networking sites, online shopping, and online banking becoming more common and convenient, the risk of fraud or identity theft continues to grow. This kind of activity is on the rise every year.

This doesn’t mean that you can’t surf safely online. Quite the contrary, you just need to follow a few simple guidelines to protect yourself and your family and create a safe and enjoyable experience. And given that June marks Internet Safety Month, it’s a good time to think about how best to educate yourself and your loved ones on both the risks out there, and the simple ways to prevent them.

“Consumers really need to be proactive in the fight against cyber crime. Staying safe online is a combination of using the latest and greatest security software tools and exercising good judgment and common sense,” says Michael Kaiser, executive director of the National Cyber Security Alliance.

In honor of Internet Safety Month, here are eight tips to help keep you, your family and your personal information safe online:

1. Manage your e-mail inbox. Delete unwanted and unsolicited email and don’t open e-mails from people you don’t know. Be cautious about unusual e-mail from people you do know. Some cyber criminals use software to make an e-mail look like it comes from an official organization (like your bank) or someone you know.

2. Always think before you click and treat links and attachments in e-mail and instant messaging with caution. Download files only from sites you know and trust and never open an attachment from someone you don’t know. These can contain viruses and malware that can cause your computer to break down or is an attempt to steal personal information. If in doubt, delete it.

3. Use extreme caution when working on a public computer; Do not save your log in information, always log out of Web sites by clicking “log out” on the site (even if you are just stepping away for a few minutes), and never enter sensitive or personal information on a public computer.

4. Be sure your firewall is turned on. A firewall is an electronic fence that helps protect your PC from hackers that may try to steal sensitive information. To turn on your firewall, simply click the start button and open the control panel. Follow the security link and then click ‘Turn Windows Firewall on or off.’

5. Protect personal information by using strong passwords. Make sure they are lengthy and incorporate letters, numbers and symbols.

6. When shopping online, be a savvy consumer. Conduct online research to find out what others have to say about their customer satisfaction. Be wary of companies that don’t provide any contact information, including a physical mailing address and telephone number.

7. The best way to protect yourself is to keep your security software, operating system and browser up-to-date with automatic updates and practice safe online behavior.

8. New security, privacy and reliability features tools in Internet Explorer 8 can provide you with a more secure Internet experience. It’s worth considering downloading it for free. Internet Explorer 8 puts you in control of your safety and privacy online and helps protect you from new threats online.

For more information, please visit www.microsoft.com/ie8 or the National Cyber Security Alliance at www.StaySafeOnline.org.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

8 ways to protect you and your family online

24DESERT LOCAL NEWS MAY 23, 2009

26 ARTIST PROFILE: BRUCE MONTGOMERY PHOTOGRAPHY

Candid shots - mostly of people - taken at the street fair in Palm Springs on May 14, 2009. It’s a fun time with lots of great vendors, held every Thursday evening on Palm Canyon in Palm Springs, California ~Photos By Bruce Montgomery. Go Online http://www.flickr.

com/photos/rbrucemontgomery/sets/72157618174825704/ for more great shots of Bruce.

27PALM SPRINGS STREET FAIR PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRUCE MONTGOMERY

Business Directory28 DESERT LOCAL NEWS MAY 23, 2009

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29BUSINESS DIRECTORY & CLASSIFIED

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Come support and meet your the kids of AranaStudios of self defense as they try to raise money on sending all (17) students for their 1st karate competition June 6th in Orange County hosted by Sensei Malinda Ota. All Money from this Event will go towards

low income children/ teenagers enrolled with the AranaStudios of Self Defense martial arts program in Desert Hot Springs which helps the community in offering martial arts classes to children and teenagers and keep them away from exposure to Gangs & drugs and direct

them in the right path in their lives!

Who cant afford to compete in the upcoming martial arts tournament on June 6th 2009 in Garden Grove Californa for the Orange County World Karate Championships which are goal to take our students (15) to compete in their 1st karate tournament. but all the kids wants to compete in the karate tournament.

Remember with your donation by getting your car washed and cleaned the kids of karate, you can make a difference in a child’s life by ful-filling their dream on competing and winning a trophie with your donation. Your name or

organization will be mentioned on local newspapers throughout the Coachella Valley.

Also some of the proceeds will go towards the kids enrolled in the AranaStudios of self defense for any upcoming tournament competition 2009 season and sparring equipment gear.

ARANASTUDIOS OF SELF DEFENSE13913 Caliente DriveDesert Hot Springs, California 92240 USAMobile (760) 272-9689Email arankwando@yahoo.com

30 COACHELLA VALLEY • EVENT CALENDAR • DESERT LOCAL NEWS MAY 23, 2009

©

JUNE 6TH, KARATE TOURNAMENT

THE VICKI LAWSON CRIME REPORT MAY 23, 2009 • DESERT LOCAL NEWS 31

COACHELLA, CA-Deputies assigned to the

Southern Coachella Valley Community Services District Team, Indio Station County P.O.P. Team, along with Riverside County Probation Officers conducted a probation compliance sweep in the areas of Mecca, Oasis, Thermal, and Vista Santa Rosa. Five suspects were arrested and a stolen handgun and narcotics were seized during the operation. Charges against two additional suspects will be filed out of custody.

Richard Shawn Dominguez, 38 years-old from Vista Santa Rosa, was arrested and booked into the Indio Jail for receiving stolen property (handgun), felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, child endangerment, possession of methamphetamine, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

A 16 year-old from Mecca was arrested and booked into Indio Juvenile Hall for resisting arrest and violation of probation.

Victor Nunez, 21 years-old from Mecca, was arrested and booked into the Indio Jail for

three outstanding DUI arrest warrants.

Juan Becerra, 21 years-old from Mecca, was arrested for an outstanding misdemeanor theft warrant and released with a citation.

Linda Franco Dominguez, 32 years old from Vista Santa Rosa, will be charged out of custody with receiving stolen property (handgun), felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, child endangerment, and violation of probation.

A 16 year-old juvenile from Mecca will be charged out of custody with violation of probation.

The Southern Coachella Valley Community Services District Team is working hard at curtailing crime and asks the community to assist them in their effort. Anyone with information regarding this incident, or other crimes in the southern Coachella Valley, is encouraged to call the Indio Sheriff’s Department at (760) 863-8990. Information can also be reported anonymously through HYPERLINK “http://www.coache l la .o rg / index .aspx?NID=106” \t “_blank” Crime Stoppers at (760) 341-STOP.

Five Arrested In A Parolee Sweep In Coachella

BY VICKI LAWSON

INDIO, CA- An Indio man has been

caught in connection to at least two Gas Station robberies in the East Valley.

While conducting an investigation into the recent robbery of the Chevron Gas & Food Mart on Highway 111 at Dune Palms Road that occurred the evening of May 11, 2009, the La Quinta Police Special Enforcement Team developed information leading to the arrest

of Ricardo Perez, age 46-years, of Indio, for armed robbery.

Based on the evidence obtained, Perez is suspected of first entering the AM/PM at

78355 Varner Road in Bermuda Dunes on Wednesday, May 6, 2009, armed with a handgun that he pointed at the clerk. Perez took an undisclosed amount of money and fled the area. Perez is also suspected of entering the Chevron Gas & Food Mart at 79513 Highway 111 in La Quinta on Monday, May 11, 2009, while armed with a crowbar. Perez walked behind the counter and forced open the cash register, then left the area with an undisclosed amount of cash.

In both incidents, no one was injured. Officers were able to identify Perez from evidence collected at the scene of both robberies. In both incidents, Perez was dressed in dark clothing, wearing a long-

sleeved shirt and a facemask. On Tuesday, May 19, 2009,

Officers assigned to the La Quinta Special Enforcement Team served a property-related search warrant at Perez’s residence in the 37000 block of Breydon Street in Indio. Evidence related to both robberies was found at the residence, including a weapon and mask believed used during the incidents.

Investigators are comparing the details of these incidents with similar recent incidents in the area, and additional charges are anticipated. Perez is currently in custody at the Indio Jail on unrelated charges. The new charges have been added and he will be set for arraignment later in the week.

Gas Station Robber Caught

INDIO, CA- Three men have been

arrested in connection to a purse-snatching incident that happened in April back in La Quinta.

On Monday, April 13, 2009, at about 2 PM, a woman exiting the Lowe’s Home Improvement Store on Highway 111 and walking to her car in the parking lot was dragged and knocked to the ground when a man from a passing car grabbed her purse. The woman received injuries to her head during the incident. An investigation into the incident was immediately begun concentrating on evidence obtained at the scene, including witness statements and surveillance video footage.

About a month later, officers from the La Quinta Police Special Enforcement Team participated in a narcotics-related search warrant at a residence in the 79000 block of Avenue 42 in Bermuda Dunes. During service of this search warrant, items were recovered leading the officers to believe one or more of the residents might have

been involved in the robbery in the Lowe’s parking lot. Further forensic processing of items found during service of this search warrant, combined with additional information learned, confirmed these suspicions.

This past Tuesday, the officers returned to the residence on Avenue 42 with a search warrant for evidence related to the robbery incident. The search warrant led to the recovery of additional evidence items suspected of being used in the crime. It also resulted in the arrest of one of the residents, Rudolfo Rodriguez, age 46-years, for robbery, possession of stolen property, and a violation of parole for his role in the incident at Lowe’s. Additionally, during service of the search warrant, Donald Howard, age 42-years, was arrested for possession of suspected methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia, and Ricky Rodriguez, age 42-years, was arrested for possession of suspected heroin and drug paraphernalia. All three were booked into the Riverside County Jail in Indio.

Purse Snatchers Caught

32 DESERT LOCAL NEWS MAY 23, 2009

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