WV Community Meeting Notes - 12/16/2020

October 3, 2017 Community Meeting at the Wonder Valley Community Center (WVCC)

Meeting called to order 5:01 PM with 28 Zoom participants (This was a virtual meeting as the WVCC is currently closed due to the COVID pandemic)

Presentations by current Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) representative Steve Reyes and Special Districts Recreation Supervisor Frank Haggard (CSA 70M & CSA 20)

Introduction 

Steve Reyes announced that the position of Wonder Valley representative for Supervisor Dawn Rowe's Morongo Basin MAC is open again with the dissolution of the existing MAC with the conclusion of the Supervisor's term as appointed replacement to serve out the term of the previous supervisor. A new MAC will be appointed in the beginning of 2021 and applicants can apply to the County and be interviewed for the position by filling out the form here: http://www.sbcounty.gov/COB/Main/NewBCCApp.aspx

Steve stated that he has re-applied and Supervisor Rowe's field representative for the Morongo Basin Mark Lundquist later added that the acceptance of applications is for 30-days with interview followings. The process is not expected to be completed and a new MAC seated until March 2021.

Reports

Steve announced that he requested and received pandemic Certificates of Recognition from County Supervisor Dawn Rowe for 7 individuals active in Wonder Valley during this difficult period of COVID-19. They are Max & Olivia Rossi, Dylan Baudounie, John Bradford, Teresa & Ken Sitz, Randy Harrison (See below for Steve's note providing more info).

Amboy Road resurfacing has been completed and the County has said it will (unfortunately) not extend beyond the curve.

Steve encourages people to use SB County Code Enforcement to report any issues including about grow houses and recommends the easy to use online complaint forms http://cms.sbcounty.gov/lus/CodeEnforcement/Complaints.aspx

The County will not be able to respond to the recent growth of graffiti by overpainting because the graffiti is on private property [Note: neighbors have been known to cover-up the graffiti ad hoc on neighborhood structures.]

Steve and Supervisor Dawn Rowe field representative Mark Lundquist gave an update on illegal marijuana grows. Steve mentioned that the 2016 law that makes cultivating marijuana a misdemeanor has limited law enforcement options. [Jennifer Ruff who works in the cannabis industry disputed the misdemeanor status and said it was still a felony to sell. See SBC Code of Ordinances on Commercial Cannabs Activity at bottom of theses notes]. Steve has met with the Sheriff about the enforcement efforts that have been concentrated in the Landers and Lucerne area. Mark noted that the Highway Patrol (CHP) has joined in the effort to stop and cite trucks servicing the grows (in the first day in Lucerne, 7 trucks were impounded for various issues, tags, tailpipes, etc). Mark says the County task force does not have an exact number of grow houses in the hi-desert but it's estimated to be between 600-700. Steve estimates there are ~50 in Wonder Valley and Mark said the County task force is beginning to work on Wonder Valley with 9-10 grows cited last week, and to remain patient as the task force develops more techniques to rein in the illegal grows. Due to the numerous issues involving the illegal grows (water usage, noise, road degradation, etc) Steve will work to put together a special community meeting for January.

Special Districts Recreation Director Frank Haggard who oversees both CSA 70M* (Wonder Valley) and CSA 20 (Joshua Tree) presented a planning update for the remodeling of the Wonder Valley Community Center kitchen and bathrooms to bring them up to health code and enable the kitchen to be a commercial kitchen available for events and rental for production (the Joshua Tree center currently has two commercial kitchen that are contracted for local food production). The CSA 70M upgrade includes new park equipment and remodeling to bring it into compliance with the ADA (American with Disability Act). Frank is asking for community feedback through this online survey and hopes to identify people and groups willing to work on seeing the project through. Kelly Hake requested a carousel for the park and Frank thought this was a great suggestion and said to put that into the feedback and that it was one of his dream projects too. https://specialdistricts.wufoo.com/forms/xd09r2u1qu4rdv/

Frank also presented the Phase II plan for the Desert View Conservation Area (DVCA, aka 'Section 6'). He is seeking community feedback on the DVCA Phase II plan at https://specialdistricts.wufoo.com/forms/x14n5snn0pzisjb/

[NOTE: Wonder Valley is County Service Area 70M and is administered by Special Districts which manages operations for unincorporated area of San Bernardino County.]

Agenda Items for Next Meeting

Steve will work with the Sheriff to put together a community meeting on the illegal marijuana grows for early next year (January if possible).

Meeting adjourned at 5:45 pm.

* * * * *

Pandemic Certificate of Recognition

The one thing I wanted to do was to recognize and thank certain individuals who have been instrumental in keeping Wonder Valley afloat during this trying times.  I asked Mark Lundquist if there was a way San Bernardino County could accomplish this.  Without hesitation, Mark Lundquist recommended a Certificate of Recognition signed by Supervisor Rowe. 

Teresa & Ken Sitz - Although the community center has been closed Ken and Teresa have worked tirelessly in organizing food distributions.  Feeding those less fortunate living in Wonder Valley.  These food distributions are no small effort and would not take place if it were not for Ken and Teresa.

Max & Olympia Rossi - Pastor Max and his wife Olympia have offered spiritual support to people living in Wonder Valley.  Living in a rural community offers its own challenges and the Rossi's continued their efforts regardless of the current environment.  Olympia learned of a fresh fruit and vegetable program and she quickly organized volunteers and distributed much need produce.

John Bradford / Dylan Baudounie - Special Districts and Road Maintenance - Our road grader has been doing an outstanding job in maintaining our roads and keeping traffic flowing.  Traffic includes much needed services provided to the most fragile members the community.  On many occasions, I have spoken to John Bradford and made special requests in regard to sign replacement and the grading of specific roads.  On each and every occasion he has directly helped me and or directed me to the correct county entity.

Randy Harrison - (UPS) - Randy our beloved "UPS Guy" never stopped his timely and much needed parcel deliveries.  His deliveries are a gamut of Amazon, medicine and food.  His service to Wonder Valley cannot be underestimated!  Randy knows all the roads in Wonder Valley and always delivers packages as close to peoples doors as possible.  Randy once told me "I am just doing my job."  In these difficult times this cannot be further from the truth and his efforts are truly appreciated by all. 

* * * * *

SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY, CODE OF ORDINANCES

CHAPTER 84.34: COMMERCIAL CANNABIS ACTIVITY

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1S1sOK0y2SlAPulEIIaAXw6s9117dS0Xs/view?usp=sharing

§ 84.34.030 Prohibition of Commercial Cannabis Activity.

Except as expressly provided by §§ 84.34.040 and 83.34.050, commercial cannabis activity shall not be considered a permitted or conditionally permitted use in any land use zoning district. Commercial cannabis activity, including delivery, is prohibited in all land use zoning districts, as those may be amended from time to time, and no permit of any type shall be issued therefor. It shall be unlawful for any person to conduct, cause to be conducted, or permit to be conducted, a commercial cannabis activity within the

unincorporated area of the County. Any person violating any provision of this Chapter is guilty of a misdemeanor, punishable in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 86.09 (Enforcement) and Chapter 2 of Division 1 of Title 1 of this Code. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a misdemeanor violation may be cited, charged, and prosecuted as an infraction. This Section shall not affect the right to possess or use cannabis as authorized by Federal or State law.

(Ord. 4309, passed - -2016; Am. Ord. 4360, passed - -2019)

SB County sues the State of California.

From Daily Press: San Bernardino County sues Newsom over COVID-19 stay-at-home orders

The County of San Bernardino has filed a lawsuit with the California State Supreme Court asking that stay-at-home orders be annulled. 

County lawyers wrote, "The County seeks this instant writ to reclaim its police power over its residents and vast land mass, with incorporated and unincorporated areas, to enable it to tailor regulations and orders which are specific to its residents based on facts which are unique to their locations rather than subject its residents to overbroad multi-county, Governor-implemented, regionalized lockdowns,”

The whole of San Bernardino County has just 41 ICU beds. 

47 similar suits have been dropped or dismissed. This writer wonders if the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors is using this suit to look tough while knowing full well that it is an empty gesture.

Go to SBCOVID.com for day-by-day San Bernardino COVID19 data. The current county risk level is "widespread." Today we have "144,455 Confirmed COVID-19 Cases" and "1,323 Deaths."

Stay safe everyone.

Become a MAC Rep for Wonder Valley!

Now's the time to apply to become the Wonder Valley Municipal Advisory Council (the MAC) representative. The "Big" MAC (as it is affectionatly known) is a 9-person advisory council including reps from the other unincorporated communities in the Morongo Basin: Copper Mountain Mesa, Yucca Mesa, Desert Heights, Landers, Morongo Valley, Pioneer Town, Wonder Valley, and two others that I can't remember. The MAC advises our 3rd District Supervisor Dawn Rowe.

If you wish to apply for this VOLUNTEER position, go to:
http://www.sbcounty.gov/COB/Main/NewBCCApp.aspx

Select: "Morongo Basin Municipal Advisory Council"
from the drop down menu.

You will need to be able to pass a background check.

As a MAC rep you will field questions from residents in Wonder Valley, communicate concerns that need to go to the supervisor, and bear the weight of all the gratitude you will recieve.

New Projects in the Works.

SBC Special Districts are currently in the process in applying for special funding for a couple of projects to benefit the Morongo Basin. The first is an upgrade to the Wonder Valley Kitchen and Playground. The second is a Phase II project for the DVCA Recreational Trails. This Presentation briefly outlines the projects. 

Please go to these perspective surveys to provide input on these projects or to express interest in being more involved in the planning process: 

Wonder Valley Commercial Kitchen and Playground Survey 

DVCA Recreational Trails Phase II Survey

Click here for a .pdf file of photos of the DVCA Recreational Trails Phase I project completed 06/30/2020. 

Thank you for your support! 

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New Trees at WVCC

 

The old mesquite tree at the east end of the Wonder Valley Community Center came down in a recent storm. The two ash trees on the edge of the parking lot succumbed in the summer. The County has replaced them all with new mesquite trees.

WV Online Community Meeting

Wednesday, December 16th 2020,  5 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
REGISTER for the Virtual meeting held on Zoom: https://bit.ly/WVCommunity2020
Wonder Valley MAC Delegate: Steve Reyes

Everyone is invited and welcome to attend and participate.

Agenda: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1o8cYsQkR0yiqQ-JIWSqtjzVcvvQ84Pjk/view?usp=sharing

A G E N D A                      

1. Call to order and flag salute 

2. Reports and Presentations - Steve Reyes

   - Pandemic Certificates of Recognition
   - Amboy Road Resurfacing Completed
   - Code Enforcement Complaints
   - Graffiti Issues
   - Illegal Marijuana Grows

3. Offer the opportunity of guests to address the community

    - Wonder Valley Community Center Kitchen Update  - Frank Haggard, Special Districts
    - Frontier Communications

4. Agenda planning 

    The community is invited to suggest items to place on the next meeting agenda.

5. Announcements

    MAC meeting tentatively scheduled for Monday - January 11th,
    2020, on Zoom (date to be confirmed and link to be announced).

6. Adjournment

    - Who would like to say, “I move to adjourn”?

Agenda posted online at WonderValley.org and at the Wonder Valley Community Center, 80526½ Amboy Road, Wonder Valley, CA 92277

Municipal Advisory Council (MAC)
Volunteer: Steve Reyes, Wonder Valley
Website: www.WonderValley.org  NextDoor: bit.ly/nextdoorwv
Email: stevenr26251@outlook.com

Grocery Bag Distribution

We've added a Grocery Bag distribution for WV residents:

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2020 (Grocery Bags)

29 Palms Community Pantry & Outreach and Friends of Wonder Valley
10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Wonder Valley Community Center
80526 ½ Amboy Road, Wonder Valley, CA 92277

USDA Food Distributions -- DECEMBER

Our Wonder Valley distribution is the last one, below.

OTHER FOOD DISTRIBUTIONS

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2020

Reach Out Morongo Basin
8:00 am to 10:00 am or till supplies are gone
Twentynine Palms Senior Center
6539 Adobe Road, Twentynine Palms CA

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2020 (Grocery Bags)

29 Palms Community Pantry & Outreach and Friends of Wonder Valley
10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Wonder Valley Community Center
80526 ½ Amboy Road, Wonder Valley, CA 92277

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2020

Spirit & Truth Worship Center
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
4751 Adobe Road, Twentynine Palms, CA 92284

MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2020

Joshua Tree Community Center
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
6171 Sunburst Avenue, Joshua Tree, CA 92252

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2020

29 Palms Community Pantry & Outreach
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
6450 Stardune Avenue, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277
Call: (760) 361-3663

Copper Mountain Mesa
9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
65336 Winter Road, Joshua Tree, CA 92252

USDA Drive Through Food Distribution

 PLEASE read below carefully.

The USDA Food Distribution will begin at 10:00 a.m. on TUESDAY, November 17, at the Wonder Valley Community Center, 80526-½ Amboy Road, Wonder Valley CA 92277. The Community Center is next to the Fire Station. The event continues until noon, or until the food runs out, which has been happening lately, about 11:00 a.m.

This food distribution is for Wonder Valley residents only. Please wear a mask and stay in your car.

We will be taking PRECAUTIONS to protect YOUR and OUR health.

Please enter the access road at the WVCC sign and continue driving around the building until you stop behind the car in front of you. Stay to the inside of the curve (left) in case someone has to leave. Do NOT get out of your car. We will come around, take your name, give you a ticket(s), and then bring your box(es) to your car. Please be patient and follow all instructions from the volunteers. This is to insure your safety and the safety of our volunteers and staff. Thank you.

The WVCC is CLOSED. The park is closed.

Low income Wonder Valley residents self-certify on site. No ID or other documentation is required. You may pick up ONE (1) box for a neighbor, or they may pick up ONE (1) box for you, IF a signed pick up form is presented. One pick up per person. Pick up forms are available online at http://tinyurl.com/wv-pickup-form. They are also available at the WVCC on Mondays, Wednesdays, or Saturdays from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., and at the kiosk outside the WVCC the week before the event.

For more information, call Teresa Sitz at (760) 367-9880.

The text below is required.

Nondiscrimination Statement
In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA.

Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g. Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.), should contact the Agency (State or local) where they applied for benefits. Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English.

To file a program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, (AD-3027) found online at: http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html, and at any USDA office, or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by:

(1) mail: 

U.S. Department of Agriculture
Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights
1400 Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20250-9410;

(2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or

(3) email: program.intake@usda.gov.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

USDA Food Distribution - Wonder Valley.

Thanks to Rich Good for the beautiful graphic.

PLEASE read below carefully.

The USDA Food Distribution will begin at 10:00 a.m. on TUESDAY, October 20, at the Wonder Valley Community Center, 80526-½ Amboy Road, Wonder Valley CA 92277. The Community Center is next to the Fire Station. The event continues until noon, or until the food runs out, which has been happening lately, about 11:00 a.m.

This food distribution is for Wonder Valley residents only. Please wear a mask and stay in your car.

We will be taking PRECAUTIONS to protect YOUR and OUR health.

Please enter the access road at the WVCC sign and continue driving around the building until you stop behind the car in front of you. Stay to the inside of the curve (left) in case someone has to leave. Do NOT get out of your car. We will come around, take your name, give you a ticket(s), and then bring your box(es) to your car. Please be patient and follow all instructions from the volunteers. This is to insure your safety and the safety of our volunteers and staff. Thank you.

The WVCC is CLOSED. The park is closed.

Low income Wonder Valley residents self-certify on site. No ID or other documentation is required. You may pick up ONE (1) box for a neighbor, or they may pick up ONE (1) box for you, IF a signed pick up form is presented. One pick up per person. Pick up forms are available online at http://tinyurl.com/wv-pickup-form. They are also available at the WVCC on Mondays, Wednesdays, or Saturdays from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., and at the kiosk outside the WVCC the week before the event.

For more information, call Teresa Sitz at (760) 367-9880.

The text below is required.

Nondiscrimination Statement

In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA.

Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g. Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.), should contact the Agency (State or local) where they applied for benefits. Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English.

To file a program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, (AD-3027) found online at: http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html, and at any USDA office, or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by:

(1) mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture

Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights
1400 Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20250-9410;

(2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or

(3) email: program.intake@usda.gov.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

Crime Stats -- September 2020

 

These statistics are compiled from the Sheriff’s Department media reports so accuracy is not guaranteed.

Calls of interest: 5 security alarms were activated; 4 reported burglaries with 1 arrest; 1 theft.

Reports of interest: 1 weapon; 1 possession of meth (arrested);  

2 crises; 2 vandalism; 1 missing persons.

It seems that more people are reporting crime, which is good. Always be sure to ask for an incident number when you call dispatch.

Lucky Dog Day at the WVCC

The Friends of Wonder Valley is sponsoring the Lucky Dog Event staring at 9 a.m., Saturday, October 3, 2020.

We'll have some free vaccinations and low-cost micro-chipping as well as free dog and cat food, leashes, collars, bedding and other pet supplies. First come, first served, and limited to Wonder Valley residents only.

All dogs are required to be on leashes and people attending must wear masks, practice strict social distancing, and follow instructions from the volunteers so the event can successful and repeated in the future.

Financial donations can be made to the Wonder Valley Lucky Dog fund via the Facebook fundraiser at https://www.facebook.com/donate/2731475913761358/ or to the sponsor, The Friends of Wonder Valley (please note that your donation is earmarked for the Lucky Dog Fund. If you provide a mailing or email address, a receipt will be sent to you.)

If you desire to directly donate pet food or supplies, they can be dropped off at the Wonder Valley Community Center on Saturday 9/19 and/or Saturday 9/26 from 9:00 - 10:30 a.m. You can also call 760- 865-9669 to arrange a pick-up or drop-off of pet donations.

Wonder Valley is a small unincorporated community of about 900 people. The city of Twentynine Palms is 15 miles west. Many of the residents of Wonder Valley are retirees, are disabled, or chose to live where their fixed income stretches further.

Nearly everyone we know has at least one rescue dog. Most of these dogs were abandoned in the desert of Wonder Valley. These dogs mean a lot to the people who rescued them, who are often very isolated, living at least 15 miles from the nearest store or gas station. Most people live on 5 acres, at least a quarter mile from their nearest neighbor. Their dogs are their dearest friends.

With Covid increasing their isolation, and adding financial strain, many residents find themselves having to choose between feeding their pets or themselves.

Contributions from other dog lovers would go a long way toward keeping pets and owners together, and both properly fed.

The Friends of Wonder Valley is a 501(c)(3) charitable nonprofit in charge of the "Lucky Dog" dog food drive 

Event:
https://www.facebook.com/events/1646688678826462

Fundraising:
https://www.facebook.com/donate/2731475913761358/

Wonder Valley Drive-Through Grocery Distribution

 

The Friends of Wonder Valley, in partnership with the 29 Palms Community Food Pantry and Outreach Ministries INC., will be distributing bags of groceries at 10:00 a.m. on WEDNESDAY, October 7, at the Wonder Valley Community Center, 80526-½ Amboy Road, Wonder Valley CA 92277. The Community Center is next to the Fire Station. The event continues until 11 a.m., or until we’ve given out all the bags.

This food distribution is for Wonder Valley residents only. Please wear a mask and stay in your car.

We will need you to fill out a form for the 29 Palms Community Food Pantry and Outreach Ministries INC.

You may pick up ONE (1) bag for a neighbor, or they may pick up ONE (1) bag for you.

Please enter the access road at the WVCC sign and continue driving around the building until you stop behind the car in front of you. Stay to the inside of the curve (left) in case someone has to leave. Do NOT get out of your car. We will come around, take your name(s), and as you drive up to the loading zone, we’ll bring your bag(s) to your car. Please be patient and follow all instructions from the volunteers. This is to insure your safety and the safety of our volunteers and staff. Thank you.

The WVCC is CLOSED. The park is closed.

Desert Trail Column - September 16, 2020

Godwin Christian Fellowship, 6389 Godwin Road at 29 Palms Highway, will hold drive-in style church services this Sunday, September 20 beginning at 7:30 a.m. Everyone is asked to wear face coverings and to remain in their vehicles at all times. Please contact Pastor Max Rossi at Mrossi121@yahoo.com or 831-234-6848 or Brother Wally Currie at 760-449-8683 for further information.

The Drive-thru USDA Food Distribution will be held on Tuesday, September 22 outside our Wonder Valley Community Center, 80526 ½ Amboy Road at Blower Road, at 10 a.m. Enter the dirt access road just east of the community center and follow it around the building, exiting to the south. Everyone is required to wear a face covering and to remain in their vehicles at all times. Boxes will be loaded into your vehicle by volunteers – just let them know where to put them. The community center building remains closed.

Darlene’s Commentary: While rummaging through Shoebox #6 that was filled on June 6, 2020, I came across a Salty Senior Column by Jim Miller entitled “How to Make the Most of Your Telehealth Appointment.” I wondered “What is a telehealth?” I called my doctor’s office and asked. I was told that I needed a laptop, tablet, smartphone, computer, or any other remote communication device – such as a phone? Now you’re talking! I spoke to a sweet nurse with a tender-smile voice, with every question and answer clearly spoken and not rushed. And all without a single tablet, smartphone or other digital gadget in sight!

One good thing that is continuing during this pandemic is our road maintenance. Thank goodness for that! If you have any comments, requests, complaints, compliments, suggestions or inquiries about our road maintenance, leave a message for Dylan at 760-367-9880, 909-387-5940 or https://tinyurl.com/fixmyroad.

Handy Hint: Here is a lesser-known time saving secret about texting: Double-tapping the space bar on the keyboard when you finish a sentence adds a period and a space, and automatically capitalizes the next letter you type to start your next sentence.

Today’s Thought: Are you old enough to remember 1942? Millions of men were off fighting in World War II while women kept the defense economy going as welders, electricians and riveters; many items including sugar, coffee, cars, bicycles and stoves were rationed; Glenn Miller’s “Chattanooga Choo Choo” became the world’s first gold record; and Karen was born! Also, the following words and phrases appeared for the first time in Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary: atomic reactor, bebop, blockbuster, bloodmobile, catbird seat, gizmo, knucklehead, maître d’, napalm, niacin, seat-of-the-pants, stacked, take-home pay, tommy-gun, tourist trap, tunnel vision, whiz kid and young adult.

Until next time . . . remember to take time to enjoy the WONDERs all around us.

Rainbow near the Valley Mountains, 2019

USDA Food Distribution - September.

 

PLEASE read below carefully.

The USDA Food Distribution will begin at 10:00 a.m. on TUESDAY, September 22, at the Wonder Valley Community Center, 80526-½ Amboy Road, Wonder Valley CA 92277. The Community Center is next to the Fire Station. The event continues until noon, or until the food runs out, which has been happening lately, about 11:00 a.m.

This food distribution is for Wonder Valley residents only. Please wear a mask and stay in your car.

We will be taking PRECAUTIONS to protect YOUR and OUR health.

Please enter the access road at the WVCC sign and continue driving around the building until you stop behind the car in front of you. Stay to the inside of the curve (left) in case someone has to leave. Do NOT get out of your car. We will come around, take your name, give you a ticket(s), and then bring your box(es) to your car. Please be patient and follow all instructions from the volunteers. This is to insure your safety and the safety of our volunteers and staff. Thank you.

The WVCC is CLOSED. The park is closed.

Low income Wonder Valley residents self-certify on site. No ID or other documentation is required. You may pick up ONE (1) box for a neighbor, or they may pick up ONE (1) box for you, IF a signed pick up form is presented. One pick up per person. Pick up forms are available online at http://tinyurl.com/wv-pickup-form. They are also available at the WVCC on Mondays, Wednesdays, or Saturdays from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., and at the kiosk outside the WVCC the week before the event.

For more information, call Teresa Sitz at (760) 367-9880.

The text below is required.

Nondiscrimination Statement

In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA.

Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g. Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.), should contact the Agency (State or local) where they applied for benefits. Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English.

To file a program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, (AD-3027) found online at: http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html, and at any USDA office, or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by:

(1) mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture

Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights
1400 Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20250-9410;

(2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or

(3) email: program.intake@usda.gov.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

Desert Trail Column - September 9, 2020

If you are a senior or disabled adult, Reach Out Morongo Basin can help with free rides from your residence to non-emergency medical appointments, grocery stores or social services appointments. They also provide rides for medical appointments in the San Bernardino or Palm Springs areas. Their vans are COVID-19 compliant and safe and can accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters. Call 760-361-1410 for information or to schedule a ride.

 If you would like to help Wonder Valley residents feed and care for their pets in this financial crisis, please donate to the Lucky Dog Fund. Donations of pet food, leashes, collars, beds and/or money would be greatly appreciated. Please go to wondervalley.org to read about this special appeal. You may send checks to PO Box 1704, Twentynine Palms CA 92277.

 Godwin Christian Fellowship, 6389 Godwin Road at Highway 62, will hold drive-in style church services this Sunday, September 13 beginning at 7:30 a.m. Everyone is asked to wear a face covering and to remain in their vehicles at all times. Please contact Pastor Max Rossi at Mrossi121@yahoo.com or 831-234-6848 or Brother Wally Currie at 760-449-8683 for further information.

 We send out Rainbows-of-Sapphires-and-Asters to Sherry Hague who celebrates her special day this week. Happy birthday, Sherry!

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         

Karen’s Commentary:  Are you tired of wearing a mask? ME, TOO! But it’s a small price to pay if it keeps everyone safer. If your glasses tend to steam up with each breath, slide them down your nose slightly.

Darlene’s Commentary:  I’m so happy that the thermometer will be dropping toward double-digits! This summer was a doozy and I sure look forward to cooler days. Thanks, Mother Nature! By next summer I plan on owning a new igloo somewhere.

 Friends of Wonder Valley is a local non-profit with the primary goal of improving the lives of Wonder Valley residents. They have done many things of a very helpful nature, constantly coming up with new and unique ideas for our little corner of the world. We thank them for all they’ve done and all they plan to do. Please donate to this fantastic organization by going to wondervalley.org or www.friendsofwondervalley.org, or by mailing donations to PO Box 1704, Twentynine Palms CA 92277.

 Handy Hint:  If someone in your house loves milk and loves it VERY cold, here is a great solution. Make ice cubes out of milk, then add a few to each freshly-poured glass. And of course this will never water down the milk like regular ice cubes would.

Today’s Thought:  “If dogs could talk, it would take a lot of fun out of owning one.” – Andrew A. Rooney

 Until next time . . . remember to take time to enjoy the WONDERs all around us.

Desert Trail Column - September 2, 2020

Godwin Christian Fellowship, 6389 Godwin Road at Highway 62, will hold drive-in style church services this Sunday, September 6 at 7:30 a.m. Everyone is asked to wear a face covering and to remain in their vehicles at all times. Please contact Pastor Max Rossi at Mrossi121@yahoo.com or 831-234-6848 or Brother Wally Currie at 760-449-8683 for further information.

 Since the birthstone for September is the sapphire and the flower is the aster, we send out Rainbows-of-Sapphires-and-Asters to Scott Kelso and Cheryl Davies who celebrate their special days this week. Happy birthday, Cheryl and Scott!

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  

Karen’s Commentary:  I had the pleasure of meeting two very nice gentlemen last week. They are Mitch and Phil from the musical group Wayland. My son Jerry had met them when they first visited the Morongo Basin and fell in love with our desert. They then moved from L.A. to Joshua Tree and are having  a great time “seeing the sights” while settling in. During this time, Jerry directed me to some youtube videos of them and I discovered just how talented they are. I suspect that I am the world’s oldest living heavy metal/hard rock fan, and their music is right up my alley! I got their CD “Rinse and Repeat” and I love it – in fact, it is playing right now. I’m telling you, they’re good! And here’s the surprise:  In person, they’re very sociable, mannerly, fun to talk to – the kind of people it is a joy to meet. You’d never dream they are celebrities of any kind – no arrogance or fancy airs whatsoever. My new favorite rock band!

 We believe the MBTA Ready Ride is still operating in Wonder Valley, transporting you to any business in Twentynine Palms, but not on the Base. Pickup at your home is at 7 a.m. and drop off back at your home is at noon on Tuesdays and Fridays. On the first Wednesday of each month pickup is at the same time, but dropoff is at 1 p.m. Cost per ride for adults is $5; for seniors (60+) or disabled adults it’s $2. Call 760-366-2395 for further information or to schedule a ride.

 Handy Hint:  Plain old baking soda has a lot of uses. Two of the lesser-known ones are:  Brush into pet beds and mattresses to zap odors, wait 15 minutes, then vacuum. And -- One pinch of baking soda will mellow any harsh flavors, like in bitter tea, and you’ll never taste it.

 Today’s Thought:  A reputation once broken may possibly be repaired, but the world will always keep its eyes on the spot where the crack was.

 Until next time . . . remember to take time to enjoy the WONDERs all around us.

Crime stats August 2020

 

It's always horrible when you, or someone you know, is burgled. It feels like things are out of control and crime is on the increase.

I post these stats, when I can, to show that there hasn't been a lot of variance over the past years. 

That said, please take precautions against burglary and theft. Install deadbolts and motion detector lights. Keep everything locked up. If you're leaving your property for the day, or for vacation, don't advertise it on social media.

Part-timers: Please get security systems with motion detectors and cameras, a system that will send alerts to your cell phone wherever you are, and call the police.

Know your neighbors. 

"Lucky Dog" dog food drive.

Nearly everyone we know has at least one rescue dog. Most of these dogs were abandoned in the desert of Wonder Valley. These dogs mean a lot to the people who rescued them, who are often very isolated, living at least 15 miles from the nearest store or gas station. Most people live on 5 acres, at least a quarter mile from their nearest neighbor. Their dogs are their dearest friends.

With Covid increasing their isolation, and adding financial strain, many residents find themselves having to choose between feeding their pets or themselves. 

Contributions from other dog lovers would go a long way toward keeping pets and owners together, and both properly fed.

The Friends of Wonder Valley is a 501(c)(3) charitable nonprofit in charge of
the "Lucky Dog" dog food drive.

There are three ways to give:

PayPal Giving Fund (no fees on either side):
paypal.com/us/fundraiser/charity/3520421

Friends of Wonder Valley Website
Go to https://www.friendsofwondervalley.org/ 
and click on the PayPal donate link on the top right.

Make check payable and send to:
Friends of Wonder Valley
PO Box 1704
Twentynine Palms CA 92277

Note that your donation is earmarked for the Lucky Dog Fund. If you provide a mailing or email address, a receipt will be sent to you.

We will match the first $100 in donations.

Friends of Wonder Valley is a 501(c)(3) charitable nonprofit.
Our EIN is 83-1473136.
For more information please email secretary@friendsofwondervalley.org. 

Desert Trail Column - August 26, 2020

Godwin Christian Fellowship, 6389 Godwin Road at Highway 62, holds a drive-in style church service every Sunday at 7:30 a.m. All attending are asked to wear face coverings and to remain in their vehicles at all times. Contact Pastor Max Rossi at mrossi121@yahoo.com or call 831-234-6848, or Brother Wally Currie at 760-449-8683 for information.

Karen’s Commentary: I have written down some cleaning solutions that kill the coronavirus. I can’t tell you which publication or website they were listed in, but they are definitely from RELIABLE sources. When I have seen the same thing recommended a second time from a different reliable source, I put a checkmark beside it, so these are the ones that have been mentioned in at least two reliable publications or websites. I personally would not hesitate to use any one of these – in fact, I am using two of them in my home right now. 

1. Isopropyl alcohol, at least a 70% solution. WARNING: This solution can discolor some plastics. 

2. Bleach, ½ cup per gallon of water or 4 teaspoons per quart of water. WARNING: Will degrade plastic containers within a few days, will corrode metal over time and is too harsh for most countertops. 

3. CleanSmart, a commercial product that is safe for use around people, pets and food. Read any warnings on the label. 

4. Clorox Multi-surface Cleaner + Bleach,a commercial product. Read any warnings on the label. 

5. Lysol Max Cover Disinfectant Mist, a commercial product. Read any warnings on the label. 

6. Hydrogen peroxide, full strength. Can be used in a spray bottle. Leave on surface for at least one minute. Can also be sprayed or poured on and left to dry. WARNING: Can discolor fabric.

The last we’ve heard, the Morongo Basin Healthcare District’s Lift Transportation is operating. They will pick you up at your home and transport you to medical appointments in the Morongo Basin, then return you to your home. This is a free service. Call 760-820-9229 or 760-366-5438 for information and scheduling. 

Handy Hint: Did you know that hairpins are thought to be one of the earliest human artifacts? You can use a modern-day bobby pin to fix a broken zipper – insert it through the eye of the slider and pull; reset electronics – access those teeny-tiny buttons; waste less toothpaste – slide one over the end of a tube, squeeze it together, and pull it toward the nozzle; hang delicates to dry – use as mini clothespins; and mark a tape roll – clip one over the loose end of duct or packing tape. Or you can actually use them in your hair!

Until next time... remember to take time to enjoy the WONDERs all around us!

Grocery Bag Distribution.

PLEASE read below carefully.

The Friends of Wonder Valley is partnering with 29 Palms Community Food Pantry & Outreach Ministries INC. to distribute bags of groceries at 10:00 a.m. on WEDNESDAY, September 2, at the Wonder Valley Community Center, 80526-½ Amboy Road, Wonder Valley CA 92277. The Community Center is next to the Fire Station. The event continues until 11 a.m., or until we’ve given out all the bags.

This food distribution is for Wonder Valley residents only. Please wear a mask and stay in your car.

You may pick up ONE (1) bag for a neighbor, or they may pick up ONE (1) bag for you.

Please enter the access road at the WVCC sign and continue driving around the building until you stop behind the car in front of you. Stay to the inside of the curve (left) in case someone has to leave. Do NOT get out of your car. We will come around, take your name(s), and as you drive up to the loading zone, we’ll bring your bag(s) to your car. Please be patient and follow all instructions from the volunteers. This is to insure your safety and the safety of our volunteers and staff. Thank you.

The WVCC is CLOSED. The park is closed.

  

Desert Trail Column - August 19, 2020

Tigger Buskirk, who lives at Amboy and Sandy Lane, received a FedEx package that should've gone to Marguerite Severson at 81242 Amboy. She would like Marguerite to please pick up the package as she is unable to deliver it.

Godwin Christian Fellowship,6389 Godwin Road at Highway 62, will hold a drive-in style church service on Sunday, August 23 at 7:30 a.m. All attending are being asked to wear face coverings and to remain in their vehicles at all times. Contact Pastor Max Rossi at mrossi121@yahoo.com or 831-234-6848 or Brother wally Currie at 760-449-8683 for further information.

We send out Rainbows-of-Peridots-and-Gladioli to Dominick Bruxer and Ted Meyers (83) who celebrate their special days this week. Happy birthday, Ted and Dominick!

Desert Trail Column - August 12, 2020

Godwin Christian Fellowship, 6389 Godwin Road at Highway 62, will hold a drive-in style church service on Sunday, August 26 at 7:30 a.m. All attending are required to wear face coverings and to remain in their vehicles at all times. Contact Pastor Max Rossi at mrossi121@yahoo.com or 831-234-6848 or Brother wally Currie at 760-449-8683 for further information.

 

The USDA Food Distribution will be held outside our Wonder Valley Community Center building, 80526 ½ Amboy Road at Blower Road on Tuesday, August 18 at 10 a.m. This will be a drive-thru distribution with all attending required to wear face coverings and to remain in their vehicles at all times. Follow the signs and/or directions of the volunteers to enter the dirt driveway just east of the building and follow the line of cars around the building to pick up your food. Please note that the community center building and the park both remain closed.

 

We send out Rainbows-of-Peridots-and-Gladioli to Chad Fairweather and Alexa who celebrate their special days this week. Happy birthday, Alexa and Chad!

 

Karen’s Commentary:  Did you know that Stater Bros Market sells miracles? Well, they do! I know because I bought one in the dish soap aisle recently. The miracle is called Dawn Ultra Platinum Powerwash Dish Spray and it is a liquid that dispenses as a foam. The first time I used it was on a 9” X 13” Pyrex baking dish that had years of built-up yellowish-brown discoloration; it now looks like new! The initial cost includes the dispenser, but then you only need to buy refills. A product that really works!

 Handy Hint:  How to preserve a pretty bouquet to enjoy year-around. Begin by placing flowers on parchment paper (available at Dollar Tree for a buck a box), taking care not to overlap blooms. Place a second piece of parchment paper on top. Place these “flower sandwiches” between the pages of large heavy books. Gently close books and stack them on top of each other, adding extra weight on top. Do not disturb for at least two weeks. Cut a piece of heavy paper or cardstock to fit inside a picture frame. Carefully remove dried flowers from books and arrange as desired on the heavy paper. Brush a light amount of glue on the back of each flower and gently press into place. Let dry thoroughly. Then put the heavy paper with flower arrangement attached between two new sheets of parchment paper and press in a weighted book for a few days, Open book, remove parchment paper and place your pretty new “bouquet” in the frame, then enjoy!

 Until next time . . . remember to take time to enjoy the WONDERs all around us.

USDA Food Distribution -- August 18.

PLEASE read below carefully.

The USDA Food Distribution will begin at 10:00 a.m. on TUESDAY, August 18, at the Wonder Valley Community Center, 80526-½ Amboy Road, Wonder Valley CA 92277. The Community Center is next to the Fire Station. The event continues until noon, or until the food runs out, which has been happening lately, about 11:00 a.m.

This food distribution is for Wonder Valley residents only. Please wear a mask and stay in your car.

We will be taking PRECAUTIONS to protect YOUR and OUR health.

Please enter the access road at the WVCC sign and continue driving around the building until you stop behind the car in front of you. Stay to the inside of the curve (left) in case someone has to leave. Do NOT get out of your car. We will come around, take your name, give you a ticket(s), and then bring your box(es) to your car. Please be patient and follow all instructions from the volunteers. This is to insure your safety and the safety of our volunteers and staff. Thank you.

The WVCC is CLOSED. The park is closed.

Low income Wonder Valley residents self-certify on site. No ID or other documentation is required. You may pick up ONE (1) box for a neighbor, or they may pick up ONE (1) box for you, IF a signed pick up form is presented. One pick up per person. Pick up forms are available online at http://tinyurl.com/wv-pickup-form. They are also available at the WVCC on Mondays, Wednesdays, or Saturdays from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., and at the kiosk outside the WVCC the week before the event.

For more information, call Teresa Sitz at (760) 367-9880.

The text below is required.

Nondiscrimination Statement

In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA.

Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g. Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.), should contact the Agency (State or local) where they applied for benefits. Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English.

To file a program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, (AD-3027) found online at: http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html, and at any USDA office, or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by:

(1) mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture

Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights
1400 Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20250-9410;

(2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or

(3) email: program.intake@usda.gov.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

Desert Trail Column - August 5, 2020

 

 

Drive-in church services are once again being held every Sunday at Godwin Christian Fellowship, 6389 Godwin Road at Highway 62, starting at 7:30 a.m. All attending are required to wear face coverings and to remain in their vehicles at all times. Contact Pastor Max Rossi at mrossi121@yahoo.com or 831-234-6848 or Brother wally Currie at 760-449-8683.

 

We send out Rainbows-of-Peridots-and-Gladioli to Cris Buskirk who celebrates his special day this week. Happy birthday, Cris!

Karen’s Commentary:  Recently I came across a March 1990 issue of Reader’s Digest. The first thing that struck me was the weight of it! Upon examination, I noticed there were 246 numbered pages, compared to my July/August 2020 issue which consists of 126 pages – that’s almost half the number of pages and this is a DOUBLE issue! There were 18 main articles, a book section and 17 smaller articles in the old issue; 7 “features”, 12 “departments”, 4 “humor” articles and 4 “genius” sections in the new one. So just as I was convinced that Reader’s Digest is now a giant rip-off, I decided to count the advertisement pages. The old issue has a whopping 84 pages of ads plus several multi-page inserts (totaling another 30 pages) that were not numbered as regular pages; the new issue had just 21 pages of ads, no inserts. I’ve always loved Reader’s Digest. I’ve been a subscriber for many years and read other people’s copies for many years before that. But one thing I will never be able to forgive them for is taking their table of contents off the cover! To me, that was a unique feature that they should never have messed with. The time span of thirty years has certainly made a difference in this magazine, but not enough to stop me from continuing to subscribe to and read it. If losing the cover’s table of contents feature didn’t stop me, I guess nothing will.

 We have a certified wildlife rehabilitator who specializes in birds right here in Wonder Valley! Her name is Susan Doggett and her phone number is 714-637-8355.

 Handy Hint:  Chocolate and Xylitol (the sugar substitute in many sugarless gums) are both poison to your dog. The darker the chocolate, the more dangerous. If you suspect your dog ate either one of these or any other toxic substance, call your vet or the Pet Poison Helpline at 800-213-6680. Do not induce vomiting unless told to do so. The Helpline will tell you how to induce vomiting with ordinary hydrogen peroxide, so keep some in your house for emergencies. (By the way, full-strength hydrogen peroxide also kills the coronavirus!)

 Until next time . . . remember to take time to enjoy the WONDERs all around us.