merry christmas december 22, 2009 desert localnewsisssue

DESERT LOCAL NEWS • MERRY CHRISTMAS ISSUE • December 22, 2009 ©

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Merry Christmas

A Christmas Message from Rick Daniels

A Christmas Message from Chief

Patrick Williams

2

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Desert Local News • Merry Christmas Issue • December 22, 2009 2

DESERT HOT SPRINGS, CA- If you’re a graffiti vandal and are looking for a place to strike, watch out. They’re going to get you and get you really good now. Cameras are just about everywhere in Desert Hot Springs, thanks to the city’s police department.

On Tuesday, during the City Council meeting, Chief Pat Williams along with Justin Benoit, a representative from Lockheed Martin, gave a presentation to the public on where these number of cameras are located and how effectively they work in monitoring crime in just about every public place throughout the city.

“It’s a plus factor to us that we could remotely provide data to our staff, to help apprehend and prosecute crooks,” said Williams.

A demonstration, made possible by the Graffiti abatement department and the police dispatch center in Cathedral City, was given where an example of graffiti vandalism took place at Wardman Park. The graffiti tech was given an opportunity to spray paint “DHSPD Rules” on the wall, as the dispatchers were

monitoring him and an officer caught him in the act while in the process.

Within minutes, the Graffiti Abatement team cleaned up the mess that was printed on the walls. Also, all monitored areas have a sign placed on them warning of surveillance.

“It’s primary function is to provide safety to the community and as you annex, there will be more cameras added,” Benoit added.

Important areas in the city, including the Pierson Boulevard/Palm Drive corridor, are always monitored, in addition to all of the city’s parks. This system cost the city $1.2 million, mainly out of development impact fees.

“I think we’re all very impressed,” said Mayor Yvonne Parks.

The camera program will be 100% complete by the end of December 2009. Beyond that, there will be some fine tuning going on as monitors will be installed in every police car. Officers would be able to monitor up to three areas at the same time from their computers.

Private Eyes Are Watching You in

Desert Hot SpringsLESLIE ANDRE

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3Desert Local News • Merry Christmas Issue • December 22, 2009 Desert Local News • Merry Christmas Issue • December 22, 2009 3

DESERT HOT SPRINGS, CA- The total weekly Development Department cash receipts totaled $26,280.22, of which $8,387 consisted of business license fees, including renewals. Eleven abandoned residential properties were registered, totaling 928, with total fees collected of $55,680 out of 979 listed. Plus, twenty new business licenses were issued this week, including three to local Desert Hot Springs businesses.

Building and Safety Division staff performed 11 inspections per day, reviewed several plans in-house, received approved plans for the city’s Façade improvement, issued a sewer opening permit and septic abatement for 9875 Palm Drive and received re-activation fees for a new single family home permit in the Hidden Springs development.

Planning Division staff is currently reviewing a revised Land Use Map provided by the consultant. It is expected that the plan will be brought before the city council in January 2010.

At the December 3, 2009 LAFCO meeting, the commission approved the city’s proposal to annex 4,000 acres adjacent to the 10 freeway. Staff will now continue to work with CVAG, US Fish and Wildlife Services and the California Department of Fish and Game on completion of the Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan.

The Mission Springs Water District approved the Water Supply Assessment for the Vortex Specific Plan. The consultant has now completed a final draft and response to the comments. It is anticipated that the plan will be presented to the council in January 2010.

Public Works Staff filled potholes on city streets, cleaned them from light rain run-off, fertilized all parks, installed a bench

in front of the Senior Center, performed monthly maintenance on generators and AC/Heater units, assisted Fire Station 37 with flagpole repairs, picked up trash dumped along Two Bunch Palms and 8th Street and assisted Lockheed Martin with Boom Truck for camera locations.

The Police Department handled 611 incidents, including 19 misdemeanor arrests, 9 felony arrests, 89 traffic stops with 21 citations, 139 patrol checks and 2 DUI arrests. Among these highlights include a strong arm robbery at the Desert Food Mart, where a suspect named Andrew Jackson approached a victim asking for money. Since the victim didn’t have any, he was punched by the suspect. An officer made contact with Jackson, who fled on foot. The officer tased Jackson with a stun gun and he was later arrested without incident. At Guy Tedesco Park, officers were dispatched to a burglary alarm activation. While enroute, dispatch advised a witness had seen a boy and a girl kicking out the window of a door at the Henry Lozano building at the park. Officers saw the two subjects fleeing the area. Both were detained and taken to Juvenile Hall in Indio.

Three stolen vehicles were recovered and two arrests were made. Outside of Christ Lutheran Church, there were three Honda cars found to be suspicious. One was stolen out of Riverside, another out of Cathedral City. After the vehicles were towed, an officer noticed a Honda Civic traveling fast. During the traffic stop of that vehicle, he found two unlicensed juveniles found to have shaved keys in their possession. Both admitted to the crimes and were taken to Juvenile Hall.

Thirteen juveniles were also cited for loitering near the rear of the Senior Center and for smoking in public. They were later transferred back to school.

From The City Manager’s Desk To Yours

BY STAFFM

erry Christm

as

4 Desert Local News • Merry Christmas Issue • December 22, 2009

With 2010 fast approaching and the holiday season upon us, it is a time to reflect on the blessings each of us has in our lives. To be sure, much is uncertain about the future. Yet, among the struggles we have encountered as a community, there is much to be

thankful for as we prepare for what lies ahead.

The men and women of the Desert Hot Springs Police Department enjoy immense support from you, our partners in reducing crime and improving our quality of life. Together we supported the successful passage of Measure A and you have been introduced to the new officers the continued funding has helped the City to hire.

You cheered our efforts through Operation Falling Sun that saw 700 law enforcement officers roll into town targeting 485 locations, arresting over 150 offenders, while confiscating illegal weapons, narcotics and serving court injunctions on our most notorious street

gangs.

You have embraced our community partnerships through the Community Police Academy, the Neighborhood Watch Academy, Junior Police Camp and in our Crime Free Multi Housing training. You support us as volunteers and by participating in our ever growing Citizens on Patrol program.

Because of you, our community is improving and on behalf of the Desert Hot Springs Police Department, I want to express my appreciation and thanks for your trust in us. May this holiday season inspire in you the hope and joy that only this time of year can bring!

Patrick Williams, Police ChiefCity of Desert Hot Springs

As we enter the Holiday season our thoughts turn to family and in our home to our love of the community we call home. Joyce and I are proud and thankful to live here in Desert Hot Springs at this point in time. Desert Hot Springs is a place of great promise and wonderful assets of clean air, water, views, and wonderful neighbors. We all have many struggles ahead of us to feed the hungry, create jobs and economic prosperity, providing opportunities for our youth, and bring healthcare to our residents, but nothing beats improving our public safety. We all need to be safe in our homes, going to the store, or taking our kids and grand kids to the park. While much has been done, much remains to be done.

Joyce and I will be focusing this next year on our own individual responsibilities to God, country, our family, and our community. Through our church, we will be servicing those less fortunate and participating in the

many non-profits that serve food, assist the mentally ill, those with debilitating addictions, and those struggling with the tough economy. I am thankful to be serving as this community’s City Manager and will strive to lead City staff’s efforts to effectively and efficiently to realize our shared dreams of security, safety, and the quality of life that we all seek for ourselves and our families.

I pray this holiday season for the end of hostilities around the world and here at home. The youth in our community deserves the best future that we can provide. They need good parenting, a good education, mentorship, health and hope. We need to all pray for the end of street violence, deadly gang activity, and the terrible influence that drugs have brought to our society.

As we all gather this holiday season let us all commit ourselves to

continue the progress this community has made during this past few years and continue to build that “shining City on the hill” that we all envision for the City of Desert Hot Springs and the good and decent people that live here.

Rick DanielsDHS City Manager

Christmas message from Rick Daniels

2009 Holiday Message from the Chief


Tests For Hiring To Be Held in City of Desert Hot Springs 12/11, 12/18, 12/21 and 12/28...2009 Call: (760) 992-3118 to schedule yourself for a test

Submit Form

6 Desert Local News • Merry Christmas Issue • December 22, 2009 Desert Local News • Merry Christmas Issue • December 22, 2009

For years Susan and I have attended the Christmas Concert presented by the Marine Corps Combat Center Band in Palm Springs. They are superb! The band requests each attendee bring an unwrapped, new toy for the Christmas Toys for Tots drive, now sponsored by the Toys for Tots Foundation on behalf of the United States Marine Corps. I fell to reminiscing about the Toys for Tots campaigns we had conducted at the Marine Corps Reserve Center in Albany, N.Y.

Toys for Tots began as an outgrowth of a frustration. Diane Hendricks, wife of Major William Hendricks USMCR in December 1947 had made a ragdoll as a gift for a deserving youngster. However, they could find no organization that distributed Christmas toys. Consequently, Mrs. Hendricks energized the Major to form such an organization. Toys for Tots, much as we know it today was born via Major Hendrick’s USMCR unit in Hollywood, CA, in 1948. They distributed 5,000 toys. The simple idea was to collect new and used toys in October, November and December for distribution in December at the various reserve units located throughout the US.

In those days we received mostly used toys that volunteers would repair and refurbish. That was a gigantic task and with blessed relief the collection and distribution of used toys ended in 1979. Ensuring that toys and games were complete and working was time consuming. As Christmas drew closer we often allowed parents into the sorting room saying, “Thank you, Please help.”

Toys for Tots, having started in Hollywood it is not surprising that some well known persons helped to establish this now much copied activity. Walt Disney personally designed the logo. Ronald Reagan and Bob Hope contributed numerous promotions and personal appearances.

However, seared into my memory is Christmas Eve 1959. We had been busy all day with last minute parents. We received a call as we were locking up. The woman on the telephone said she had three children, no gifts, no money and little food. She asked if we could deliver. Something made me agree. I asked for her address. When she told me I responded there are no buildings

left in that area they have been reduced to rubble for an urban renewal program. She said that was true, except that she lived on the third floor of the last building standing. I wondered, is this real?

The distribution room was in total disarray, but we did our best to gather a box of toys for young children. In the light of a fading winter afternoon I stopped at a White Tower located en-route. The remainder of the trip was like traveling through a city that had been carpet bombed. True enough all was flatten except one last forlorn brick building with two lighted windows on the third floor. It was the only sign of life. I went up the dark stairs carefully and knocked. The woman opened the door and thanked me for coming. She had not said there was no heat…

The next time you have an opportunity to give an unwrapped gift to one of the agencies that collect gifts for distribution at Christmas time please oblige. You have no idea of the journey your toy or your gift may make. Nor will you ever know who will prayerfully thank you.

The Squeeze Is On #28

BY HANK HOHENSTEIN

24 / 7 News around the clock! Just click the banner to go to it now! Email: [email protected] You Report!

Merry Christmas from Hank and Susan Hohenstein

DESERT LOCAL NEWS • FEBRUARY 4, 2009 7Desert Local News • Merry Christmas Issue • December 22, 2009

Every year as the holidays approach, jewelry marketers cleverly position a certain piece as the “must-have” item of the year. While every woman probably welcomes a jewelry gift, not every woman wants to receive and wear the same thing everyone else she knows will also be wearing.

So how do you find that perfect blend of wearability, uniqueness and personalization that makes a jewelry gift truly special?

One way to ensure you give her a gift she won’t see on anyone else is to customize a piece. A charm bracelet, for example, allows her to create and wear something totally unique to her ? and that tells her personal “story” in a beautiful way.

PANDORA has created a charm bracelet for today’s woman that is completely customizable, with more than 800 charms that fit virtually every budget and taste. It’s a gift that can ‘give’ for years to come as she adds new charms.

You can locate a PANDORA dealer at www.PANDORA-jewelry.com.

How to make the perfect

jewelry gift even better


EXCLUSIVE- The city of Desert Hot Springs has

settled a dispute involving former city manager Jerry Hanson at a closed session meeting held on Tuesday.

In a settlement agreement obtained by Desert Local News on Wednesday, the city will pay Hanson a sum of $150,000 within the next 30 days.

Hanson originally filed a complaint for breach of contract, declaratory relief and a complaint against the city of Desert Hot Springs on June 7, 2007. About a year and a half later, he filed a Demand of Arbitration with the American Arbitration Association, naming the City and the Redevelopment agency as respondents.

A settlement was agreed upon on November 17, 2009 between the parties. Hanson has agreed to keep the matter confidential from this point further.

Hanson was first hired in the position in 2003 after a series of several city managers being hired, fired or quitting. Reports say that Hanson was the highest paid city manager of all time. He was separated from his employment with the city since 2005.

“I’m glad we settled this matter and that it’s behind us,” said City Attorney Ruben Duran. He commented no further.

Councilman Karl Baker adds, “I’m glad it’s over. He was one of the worst things to happen to Desert Hot Springs. The previous council didn’t do their job.” Baker added that for the city to fight the settlement even further would have been more expensive in the long run. “Hanson cost us a fortune,” he stated.

A BRIEF HISTORY OF JERRY HANSON:

In archived reports from The Desert Sun, Hanson was mentioned as having

received 1,200 hours of vacation pay in 2004, which equals to roughly 30 weeks (over half of a year). The following year, he received 12 more weeks of vacation pay, assuming a 40 hour work week. Why is because of multiple contracts he has signed, also having held multiple positions with the city of Desert Hot Springs in the past prior to becoming City Manager in February 2003.

In 2004, Hanson also received a $600 car allowance and 200 gallons of premium gasoline per month. He also received $92,000 from a severance package while still employed by the city. Plus, according to the Desert Sun, Hanson received $1,068 for having his birthday off, and then cashing in almost 1,000 hours in sick leave.

Hanson was initially hired at a time when the city was facing bankruptcy. In 2003, he was probed for a conflict-of-interest situation, but was cleared of wrongdoings within a month. In 2005, the late former city councilman Gary Bosworth filed a complaint with the Fair Political Practices Commission alleging that Hanson violated the Political Reform Act.

Later that year, Hanson stepped down as permanent City Manager, then accepted a position as Interim City Manager until a replacement was found. Patricia “Corky” Larson took over as Interim City Manager shortly thereafter.

Desert Local News also obtained legal papers regarding a claim to former KESQ-TV news reporter Carlos Delgado, which claim that Hanson assaulted him when he tried to approach him about corruption issues at City Hall. Delgado also claimed that Hanson denied him access to a press conference, having been hauled away by police officers acting on the city’s behalf. These actions have long been settled in 2006.

Hanson matter settled for $150,000LESLIE ANDRE

Cabot’s Museum Foundation is pleased to announce the creation of the Cabot’s Museum Gordon Gribble Scholarship Program. The mission of the program is to encourage Coachella Valley students in the fields of art, architecture, history, and science. The program will begin in spring 2010.

The program is made possible by an endowment from Gordon Gribble, a Palm Springs and Desert Hot Springs resident. Mr. Gribble was the recipient of Cabot’s Pioneer Award at the 3rd Annual Cabot’s Birthday BBQ Bash in June in recognition of his generous support of Cabot’s Museum.

Cabot’s Museum Foundation is a registered not-for-profit 501c3 and operates Cabot’s Pueblo Museum at 67616 East Desert View Avenue in Desert Hot Springs.

Cabot’s Museum Foundation may be contacted at 760-329-7610 or by email at cabotsmuseum.com or by writing P.O. Box 104, Desert Hot Springs, CA 92240

CABOT’S MUSEUM

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Desert Local News • Merry Christmas Issue • December 22, 2009 9Desert Local News • Merry Christmas Issue • December 22, 2009

I went to a city council meeting this Monday. They spent much time trying to see how to fund an increase in taxes to support the police, fire department, graffiti abatement, and animal control. While I support paying for services with taxes, in the face of some people who seem to believe no tax increase is ever justified, it seems to me our methods of paying for services have gotten overly complicated.

We have reached the place that some things are completely off the table for reductions. On the federal level the military, Social Security, and Medicare generally receive little real scrutiny. The federal government deals with these in a truly courageous way. They increase the deficit. When a politician asks for a review of these programs they can see their public service career going slowly down the drain. Locally, Police and Fire Departments are sort of in the same position. These departments are supported by a group of taxes. That’s why, even though a continued utility tax was approved last year, the council will probably attempt to increase the parcel tax this year. It won’t be enough. According to their own projections, even if the parcel tax is doubled there will still be a $15 million dollar shortfall over ten years.

Instead of being realistic and paying for services with a simple taxing system we are reduced to mishmash of taxes that try and camouflage the true cost of services. We have now a taxing methodology that confounds me. It compounds an unfair property tax system, a sales tax, a room tax, a parcel tax, a utility tax, and probably others I don’t even know about. Why? It can only be laid on one thing. We don’t want to know what these services really cost. It works really well if you want the services and don’t have to pay your fair share, if

for instance, you are a developer or a resident protected by proposition 13. Let everyone else pay for services.

It also puts us in the position that other needs will never be confronted. At present we have a police-person for every 706 residents. We have one doctor for every 16,000 residents. We have no hospital, no clinics, and will be in a world of hurt if our access to the rest of the valley is cut off. Everyone knows what the problem is. Because we are a poor community, a large percentage of residents have no health insurance. No private hospital could survive if a large percentage of patients could not pay. So, as more and more facilities are built to serve the wealthier communities to our south, we wait for two things. First, if national health insurance passes it would be possible to get a nonprofit clinic in town. Second, it still is possible for the County to build a facility here.

We also need to focus more on ensuring kids stay in school. This from my perspective requires much more than building a bigger Boys and Girls club. It requires us to entice employers that pay good wages and pay city taxes to move here. This would allow parents to actually become stewards of their children, rather than having to work two or more jobs.

I am not for taxing everyone to pay for wild eyed things of little public good. But, if we want a good police department, an efficient fire department, good roads, nice parks, services for seniors, a great school system then we all have to pay for them. We cannot expect someone else to carry the burden.

I have written about this before. As a nation we have become children. We want. We want roads, good schools, senior centers, police, and fire departments all to cost what they did in

1950. We want water to be free, sewer to be hooked up to our homes for free, no cost health insurance (for me, no one else); we want all our neighbors to be nice, and all the best shops to be right around the corner. We want no one ever to get in our way, children to be quiet and not wear those low rider pants, and government to do exactly what we want.

If only that were true we would be happy. But, we are never happy. That computer, car, pair of pants, and energy drink were out of style before you got out the door. If government did solve something, so many other problems fall in line to take its’ place. We are perpetually unhappy. We have houses with rooms we never use, except to store all that stuff we bought on the cable shopping network. We are broken, mostly because we are so easily manipulated. By commercials, political talking heads, misinformation on the internet, government officials that have lied or hidden the truth.

Until we, as a nation can agree on some basic questions we will never climb out of our malaise. I use this word on purpose. The President who tried to address some of our major problems used this word to describe the national mood. He was beaten by a man who said nothing is wrong, we are exceptional, and we don’t have to pay for anything. He de-regulated like mad, and solved nothing. For thirty years we have blunder along as if gas will always be thirty cents a gallon, there are no environmental problems, having no manufacturing means nothing, and everything will be alright as long as union working people are paid as little as possible while CEOs and bankers make billions. Wake up children before it is too late. We are on the edge of being the best third world country in the world.

Where are our priorities

BY JOE MCKEE Joe Mckee


Hang political correctness – MERRY CHRISTMAS! I’m sure many of you are busy looking for gifts for some cherished loved ones, perhaps mailing packages or fussing with last minute Christmas card mailings. In any event, some of us get so busy with the “season,” that we forget what it’s really about – I know I have.

Let’s go back to Christmas 1969 – 40 years ago. Marlene, our 5 kids, and I were living in Westminster – in western Orange County. We were attending a small church that had arranged with the county social services agency to take a Christmas meal and some presents to a needy family. Our family was assigned a young single mother and her 2 children, who were living in Seal Beach.

After we learned this family’s needs, wants, and sizes, Marlene and I went the mall to buy the young mother, her 6-year old son, and 3-year old daughter some Christmas gifts. We went to the market to purchase this young family’s Christmas turkey-and-trimmings dinner – plus some staples for their cupboard.

When it came time to make our delivery, Keith, our youngest son, (he was 6-years old), said he wanted to come along. It was a chilly December early evening, yet, the closer we got to Seal Beach the wintry fog had become very noticeable.

In that era, Seal Beach had some upscale neighborhoods – this area wasn’t one of them. When we parked our station wagon in front of the rundown house, it was clear to Marlene and me that this young mom and her 2 little children were struggling. We started unloading our wagon and carrying groceries into her house. The first things we noticed was, neither the mother or her small children wore any warm clothing, and the house was almost as cold as it was outside. When I carried in a 10-lb bag of potatoes and gave it to the mom, I remember this poignant scene like it was yesterday, she took the potato bag and hugged it – and then she cried.

After Marlene, young Keith, and I had taken in all the bags of food and gifts, our

6-year old son taught us the real meaning of Christmas.

As we were leaving and wishing a Merry Christmas to the three of them, Marlene and I noticed Keith talking with his 6-year old counterpart. Then with the damp chill still in the air, suddenly our 6-year old son took off his warm jacket and gave it to the young boy.

We overheard Keith saying to his new friend, “My Momma and Daddy can get me a new one for Jesus’ birthday.” After we piled into our wagon, Marlene turned to our 6-year old boy and said, “That was nice of you Keith.” Our young son’s response was priceless, “He was cold and needed it more than me.”

The New Testament book Hebrews 11:1 says, ”Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.” Our small 6-year old son showed us what the faith of a small boy could do, to make some other little boy warmer for Christmas. Have A Blessed Christmas One And All – And Rightly So.

And Rightly SoBY MATT WEYUKER

Merry Christmas from Matt and Marlene Weyuker


11Desert Local News • Merry Christmas Issue • December 22, 2009 11

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www.delrosahotshots.com www.wffoundation.org

Golf Tournament Hosted by the

Del Rosa Hotshots What: 2nd Annual Del Rosa Hotshot Alumni Golf Tournament (18 Hole scramble tournament format) When: January 23rd, 2010 10:30 AM Check‐in 11:30 AM Putting Contest 12:30 Shotgun Start Where: San Bernardino Golf Club

1494 S. Waterman Ave San Bernardino, CA, 92408

Who: Del Rosa Hotshot Alumni, Family, Friends, and fellow Firefighters We only have 144 spots open! So call to reserve your spot ASAP! The Deadline to register is January 10th, 2010. Why: To raise money for the Wildland Firefighter Foundation. The WFF is a non‐profit

organization which helps out the families of fallen wildland firefighters. Cost: $100 per person ‐ Includes:

18 holes of golf w/ cart Practice range balls Texas B.B.Q. Buffet

(Checks payable to Del Rosa Hotshot Alumni) Extra’s: Prizes for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place teams, raffle ticket winners, longest drive, closest to the

pin, putting contest winner, and much more. Tee sponsors are available for $100 a hole. Call if interested.

For additional information contact: David Borero work phone: (909) 383‐5567 or cell phone: (909) 915‐5803 E‐mail: [email protected] Neil Gamboa work phone: (909) 382‐2980 or cell phone: (951) 318‐1327 E‐mail: [email protected]

13Desert Local News • Merry Christmas Issue • December 22, 2009

DESERT HOT SPRINGS, CA-Habitat For Humanity celebrated

and blessed their 27th home on Tuesday morning in Desert Hot Springs, handing the keys over to Aracelia Tamayo and her four children.

For a long time, the family lived in rather substandard conditions in an area south of the city limits, and now Ms. Tamayo feels excited that she now will be living in the heart of town. “It feels great. I’m glad we’re getting our own place now,”

said Christopher Tamayo, one of lucky kids.

Aracelia and her family had to apply for this home through the program, in which several families were also applicants. Because they met the criteria offered by Habitat for Humanity, they decided that the Tamayos deserved the home on 4th Street the most. It is a lower priced mortgage that they will have to pay per month.

News crews and a few members of

the community took part in the celebration, welcoming the new family into their new home. An invocation was read by Mayor Yvonne Parks, and members of HFH read Bible scriptures and lit a blessing candle, thus blessing the home.

HFH managing director Fred Bell, formerly from the Building Industry Association, commented, “We’ve very excited about this. What a wonderful gift you could give somebody, which is a home.”

Love Can Build A Bridge…And A Home in Desert Hot Springs

LESLIE ANDREWS



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BY STAFF America’s national parks and

historical sites embody the American spirit. They are windows to our past, homes to some of the world’s rarest plants and animal species, and places where every American and international traveler can go to find inspiration, peace, and open space. American National Parks protect some of the most beautiful, majestic and awe-inspiring places on earth. From mountains and rivers, to forests and plains, these national parks open our minds and refresh our spirits. When you visit Yellowstone, Yosemite, the Grand Canyon or any of the 391 park units, you see nature at its best and stand in the shadow of our heroes and ancestors.

“The National Parks: Our American Landscape” presents a wonderfully updated photographic survey of the nation’s greatest treasures. Seen through the eyes of the National Parks magazine photographer and International League of Conservation Photographers member Ian Shive, America’s National Park System comes to life through this collection.

“Since my youth,” Shive writes,

“I’ve seen the national parks as the last authentic vestiges of America’s wildest

places — symbols of its one-of-a-kind spirit.”

Shive’s images demonstrate the diversity and awe-inspiring beauty of the American wild lands. The National Parks features photographs of the major parks from the Florida Everglades to Mt. McKinley in Denali National Park, Alaska. The book includes parks such as Yosemite and Yellowstone, as well as images from Point Reyes National Seashore in Northern California and Steamtown National Historic Site in Northeastern Pennsylvania.

Being a photographer seems like a mighty glamorous job — traveling to exotic places and enjoying dramatically beautiful landscapes and wild animals — but as Shive explains, “there is a brutal side most people don’t realize.” Imagine 100mph winds, and temperatures 50-below zero, blizzards and your vehicle hitting a rock in the middle of nowhere when you have a flight to catch in the morning. Physical challenges aside, the ensuing images that come from Shive’s travels clearly document his love for the natural world and his willingness to work with nature to capture the unique images in The National Parks, which were shot digitally using

Canon 5D cameras, and are not doctored.

Amy Leinbach Marquis, associate editor for National Parks Magazine, recalls her encounter with Shive by saying, “We’d drive to a photogenic spot, and while I soaked in the scenery, Ian would bound swift and light-footed through fields of sharp, spiky agaves and dagger-tipped cacti to capture the best light.” At the local diner, where Shive edited the day’s shoot, Marquis relates how the locals would react to his work; “Waitresses and park staff would linger around our dinner table, peering wide-eyed over Ian’s shoulder as if seeing Big Bend for the very first time. His images weren’t just illustrations of the place; they were a gift to the people who called it home.”

At age 30, Shive is one of the youngest nature photographers in the industry, and he has achieved substantial recognition for his innovative photographs. A former marketing maven at Sony Pictures’ Columbia Pictures, his images have appeared in many magazines. He earned a Gold Place at the 2008 Folio Awards for his National Parks magazine story “Ghosts of the Steamtown”, and a gold in the category of “Best Use of Photography, Association or Non-Profit.”


The Pegasus Riding Academy for the Handicapped held its Riders Award Luncheon program at the Renaissance Esmeralda Crystal Ballroom in Indian Wells, near Palm Springs, Calif. on Sunday, Dec. 13. Emcee for the event was radio personality Dan McGrath. Co-chairwomen were Robin Montgomery and Albeth Paris Grass. Grammy winners Brenda and Phil Nicholas, who are parents of a child with a disability and a client of the Pegasus Riding Academy, provided entertainment. A silent auction was held before the lunch was served. Several tables of silent auctions items had something for everyone. The Cathedral City High School Adult Transition class made various items for sale, including decorated candles and jewelry. Other vendors selling many types of items could be found in the lobby when entering the ballroom.

A live auction was held with three large items for bidding. Item number one was a visit to the CBS set of “The Young and the Restless” and lunch at the commissary as a VIP guest of star, Judith Chapman. Item number two was his-and-hers LANDRIDER bicycles, which is the latest in auto-shift design and comfort on the road. Item number three was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to have lunch with Adam West and Lee Merriweather, the original Batman and Catwoman, from the movie and television series at a private estate once owned by George Randolph Hearst.

President and founder Lori Sarner presented awards to the O’Bitz family as Pegasus Family of the Year and to Mr. and Mrs. McCarthy for their dedication to the program. Chase Burke asked all the volunteers to come on stage to hand out

the medals to all the clients for their riding ability.

The young men and women were so excited to get these medals. It was a proud moment for all of them as they have accomplished so much.

The Pegasus Riding Academy in Thousand Palms is a place where those with a disability can get medically approved equine therapy. The walking motion of a horse massages all the leg muscles. This is also an exciting experience for those confined to a wheelchair.

For more about this event, go to www.PalmSpringsGuides.com

Riding Academy Riders Award LuncheonPegasus

STORY AND PHOTOS BY PAT KRAUSE Aaron and Diane O’Bitz with Lori Sarner


Phil and Brenda Nicholas perform for the crowd

Girls get ribbons ~photos Pat Krause

Alana Romero ~photo Pat Krause

Judith Chapman is excited with a winner at live auction


PALM DESERT, CA- Four young and bright musicians

have brought great music to the ears of Coachella Valley listeners, and with such a great variety of sounds, ranging from smooth jazz to indie rock. Desert Local News takes a look at Caxton, a local band that has captured quite a following in the desert.

Brian Pelletier (drummer), Adam Surdin (guitarist), Brett McLaughlin (bassist) and Christina Reyes (Vocalist and keyboard player) have been playing together quite a while under different monikers. Reyes was discovered while the band was still playing in the Los Angeles area, and after a short time, she was convinced to move to the Coachella Valley with the rest of the group.

“We came up with the name Caxton because it doesn’t tie in with a certain

genre,” said Reyes when asked about the name’s origin. “We’re open to all suggestions when it comes to where we are.” They personally classify as “Garage/Jazz/Alternative.”

Their Demo CD, which was recorded in 2008, features great tunes like “Damaged Goods” and “Bixby”, which to this reporter’s surprise were very convincing. Some of their songs were recently performed at a Songwriter’s Convention in Indian Wells, and that is where this journalist discovered the band.

As for the band’s influences, they range from western jazz to classic rock. Surdin says, “We’ve been trying to emulate the songwriting style of the Beatles.” Reyes was vocally inspired by jazz greats like Ella Fitzgerald and by 1980’s new wave artists like Bjork and Radiohead. “We’re rock based, but we’re also inspired by a lot of alternative and indie artists as

well,” she added.

Most of the band began playing their instruments at early ages. Reyes said, “I’ve been playing since I was six years old with piano lessons. I hated it at first, but then I began to play by ear.” Pelletier has been playing drums since he was eight. Surdin and McLaughlin began in their early teens.

Since the group’s existence, they have played 80 shows, mostly in the Coachella Valley and sometimes in San Diego and in Los Angeles. They have hopes to play in larger, more popular establishments as their following progresses. At the current time, they have CDs for sale, which are available at their website HYPERLINK “http://www.caxtonmusic.com” www.caxtonmusic.com or at their MySpace page at HYPERLINK “http

Brian Pelletier (drummer), Adam Surdin (guitarist), Brett McLaughlin (bassist) and Christina Reyes (Vocalist and keyboard player) ~ photo DLNewsLESLIE ANDRE

CAXTON: The Coachella Valley’s Premier Rock-Jazz Band


From all of us here at Desert Local News, we wish

you a Merry Christmas!!!!!

Tis the

season to be

joyous, happy and peaceful at a

time when things are headed for change here in Desert Hot Springs.

Tis the season to be patient as the economy fixes itself during a time

of change here in the good ol’ U.S. of A.

And tis the season to be proud of our troops serving in Afghanistan and in Iraq.

Many thanks to all of our friends who support us on a daily basis. Thanks to all who support us through our advertising,

and by being loyal readers. And many thanks to all who support the city of Desert Hot Springs in its progress to become the shining

diamond in the desert!

Desert Hot Springs Chamber Annual Christmas Mixer • December 22, 2009 20

DESERT HOT SPRINGS, CA- The Desert Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce celebrated its annual Christmas mixer at the Miracle Springs Resort and Spa on Wednesday. The Chamber managed to raise money and toys for the Coachella Valley Christmas Store, located at the Grace Community Church. Two large boxes of toys were filled. At the last minute, nearly over $100 was raised for wrapping paper needed at the church. Raffle prizes and a visit from Santa Claus himself also took place at the mixer.

BY STAFF

Edmundsons aka Mr and Mrs Santa Eric Pontius brings gifts to Santa

Fire Chief Dean Viek

Jackie R candid portraitSean Keefer Dan Anderson Keystone Law

Pontius daughter with raffle tickets

Desert Hot Springs Chamber Annual Christmas Mixer • December 22, 2009 21

Santa with Pontius daughters

Eric Pontius DHS Chamber President Hank and Susan Hohenstein

Judy SheaJames Martinez from Coachella Chamber of Commerce

All photos by Bruce Montgomery


It’s prime flu season, and each year we hear the same advice: get your flu shot, wash your hands frequently and cover your mouth when you sneeze. Flu particles can linger in the air and on the surfaces we touch day in and day out, from computer keyboards and TV remotes to the kitchen sink or refrigerator door handle. With flu top of mind this year, there has also been increased interest in the science behind how the flu virus lives, and history may hold the answers.

Grandma may have been ahead of her time when keeping a tea kettle warming on the stove in winter to moisten the air. A new, comprehensive scientific research paper has given new insight into the lifespan of the flu virus and how humidity plays a significant role in the survival of the virus on surfaces and in the air. Taking into account the findings from a number of published, peer reviewed studies from over the last 70 years, an independent team of scientists and researchers hailing from such institutions as the Harvard School of Public Health, have found that in more humid environments, the flu virus survival time is markedly decreased.

Specifically, the research showed that homes kept at 40 to 60 percent humidity are likely to have fewer flu viruses lurking in the air and on often-touched surfaces like sink faucets, door handles and countertops. While the typical flu virus can survive on surfaces and in the air for up to 24 hours, the survival time in a more

humid environment is significantly lower.

“The flu virus is all around us this time of year - at the office, in schools, on public transportation. If the flu virus is in your home due to a sick family member or visitor, you want to do everything you can to shorten its life span,” says Dr. Ted Myatt, senior scientist at Environmental Health and Engineering, Inc. and co-author of the new report. “We’ve always known that humidifiers are a great way to soothe cold and cough symptoms, but using a humidifier can also help to maintain proper humidity levels in your home.”

“The research suggests that a proper level of relative humidity in your home can really make a difference in the survival of the flu virus,” adds Jim McDevitt, instructor at the Harvard School of Public Health and a certified industrial hygienist by the American Board of Industrial Hygiene. “If you can maintain those levels, the number of flu virus particles in the air and on surfaces are likely to decrease.”

Because flu season strikes at what is, for many areas of the country, the driest time of the year, you can combine

your efforts to combat the flu with the recommended steps to make your home environment more comfortable. It’s not uncommon for winter humidity levels to dip as low as 20 percent, which can lead to dry skin, chapped lips, parched throats and other discomforts.

The most essential tool for increasing relative humidity levels is a good humidifier. If you think your humidity levels might not be up to par - or if you want to better maintain them - a hygrometer is a handy device available at most drug stores. Hygrometers provide a digital readout of the relative humidity in your home, and are compact and low-cost. If you use your hygrometer and humidifier together to keep humidity at the ideal 40 to 60 percent level, the research indicates the flu will have less of a chance of surviving in your home. Courtesy ARA

How to keep flu from thriving in your homeSTAFF ARA


Desert Local News • Merry Christmas Issue • December 22, 2009 23Desert Local News • Merry Christmas Issue • December 22, 2009


Radigan Company had an open house and ribbon cutting and Mayor Yvonne Parks spoke about low and moderate income housing at 66635 Mesquite in Desert Hot Springs.

Cutting the ribbon, Jan Pye, Santa, Mayor Parks and Mayor Pro Tem Matas ~all photos by Bruce Montgomery

BY BRUCE MONTGOMERY

Ribbon Cutting at 66635 Mesquite

Low Income Housing Ribbon Cutting 6574 DHS City Manager Rick Daniels center ~ photo Bruce Montgomery


Low Income Housing Ribbon Cutting 6574 DHS City Manager Rick Daniels center ~ photo Bruce Montgomery

Property owner Edward Verdugo with Santa and Mayor Yvonne Parks ~photo by Bruce Montgomery

Carolers at 66635 Mesquite site of the ribbon cuttingRadigan Company spokesman







MERR

Y CHR

ISTMA

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Desert Local News • Merry Christmas Issue • December 22, 2009


Having been the former Mayor of the City of

Desert Hot Springs, and being a longtime real estate broker, few can better express the uniqueness of the City of Desert Hot Springs and Coachella Valley at large

and articulate the full brightness of its’ socio-economic and political future to an investor/developer.

Yes! Investment opportunities do still exist, even in

today’s volatile marketplace. Entrepreneurship is the key to success! One has to create ones own economic recovery “stimulus plan and implement it with extreme

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STAFF ARAThe conflicts overseas are ongoing,

which means much of the American military are continuing to serve far from home.

Here are several ideas on how you and your family can show your pride for the military.

* Organize a letter campaign:If you have children in school, ask

the classroom to create homemade cards and letters for the military. Ask some of your family members, friends and coworkers to join you in creating cards.

* Show your pride:Tie yellow ribbons on trees, hang

the American flag and use products displaying military emblems and logos to remind people of those serving overseas. For example, Bank of America offers military-themed banking products such as check cards, credit cards and checks so customers can show their pride for the military and demonstrate their appreciation of the sacrifices veterans and active duty military personnel have made. Find out more at www.BankofAmerica.com/MilitaryBanking.Courtesy ARA

Show your pride for veterans and soldiers

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CLASSIFIEDS & NOTICES • Desert Local News • December 22, 2009 DESERT REAL ESTATE • Desert Local News • December 22, 2009 31

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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 $105,000. 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 $289,700. Call me 760-774-3557.

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Desert Local News December 22, 2009 32

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