DESERT LOCAL NEWS ‘WEEKLY NEWS MAGAZINE’ • JUNE 27, 2009 ©

Cathedral CityART IN PUBLIC PLACES - Twin sisters Cassy and Gabby Rojas

with cousin Felipe Rojas at Cathedral City Fountain of Life ~Photo by Bruce Montgomery

FOR 24/7 Local News • Go to DesertLocalNews.com ~ US $ 2.50

Farrah Fawcett dead at 62

Michael Jackson

dead at 50

22 DESERT HOT SPRINGS City Council Report June 27, 2009

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DESERT HOT SPRINGS, CA- (Part One Of Two)

For nearly two years, the city of Desert Hot Springs has had struggles with bringing in Art in Public Places. Experts say that the city should improve their image first before they consider bringing in public art, like their neighboring cities of Palm Springs and Cathedral City have done. The local chapter of the Building Industry Association has threatened legal action to block Desert Hot Springs of any decision making. Now, as compromises begin to surface between the two feuding agencies, some criticism has began to appear, courtesy of Planning Commissioner Gabriel King’s very own “Friends of Desert Hot Springs”.

According to King, Mayor Pro Tem Karl Baker and Councilman Scott Matas have “Thumbed their noses at the founding fathers of this nation and the people of our city by circumventing this sacred democratic legislative process.” They have been accused of meeting in secret with the BIA to undo the city’s Art in Public Places program and their development fees. Baker says, “It’s all a lie.”

King further accuses the two councilmembers of keeping Desert Hot Springs impoverished. “That’s fancy

talk for taking discussions behind closed doors under the guise of litigation,” he says on his webpage. He also said that on April 2, 2009, the BIA met with Baker and Matas behind closed doors and without the public able to take part in the debate to debate changes to development impact fees and art in public places. King added online, “The BIA did not like the result and found accomplices seeing no problem taking this out of the view of the public eyes in clear violation of government transparency.”

In an exclusive talk with Desert Local News, King explained that he faces possible removal from the Planning Commission over this issue. Baker explained that the motion to remove King would have to be on a future agenda and has to be voted for or against by all five City Council members. If fired from the commission, King says that he would be entitled to sue the city over expressing his “first amendment” rights. Previously, then-Councilman Al Schmidt made a suggestion to have King fired, but the other four members voted to keep him on board.

King said, “I am passionate about this city and especially about the art in public places ordinance. I commend the city

council for its previous decision to adopt it but am terribly upset by discussions that can only serve to weaken a good ordinance. The public debated this issue for over a year. If it is going to be changed, the public has just as much right to be a part of the debate over any changes. The BIA is not the only stakeholder in this debate. I’ve so expressed my views to the council members as is my right.”

Fred Bell, the local BIA chapter president, simply wants to see things move forward when it comes to Desert Hot Springs having their fair share of art go through. “We are trying to get a construction tax issue resolved,” he said exclusively. “The legislative window expired last April. There will be an agreement that will allow the two parties to come to a settlement to avoid a lawsuit.” As for King’s remarks, Bell simply believes that he should just allow the BIA to move forward without complications.

As of now, Desert Hot Springs offers the lowest Art in Public Places fees, nearly half as much as those of neighboring cities like Palm Springs, Palm Desert and Indio. More on this story in the next issue of Desert Local News.

Will There Ever Be Art In Public Places in Desert Hot Springs?

BY LESLIE ANDREWS

3DESERT HOT SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA • DESERT LOCAL NEWS June 27, 2009 3

DESERT HOT SPRINGS, CA-On Monday, the Desert Hot Springs

City Council met for nearly four hours to discuss two things: The Five Year Capital Improvement Program and the 2009-2010 budget.

For starters, council approved placing a traffic signal at the corner of Camino Campanero and Palm Drive by December 2009. This was all part of the sidewalks agreement that had been requested since November 2007 when a young girl named Carissa Nuene was struck and killed by an unknown driver.

Amongst other items discussed were the seismic early warning detection device at the city’s only fire station located at West Drive and Pierson Boulevard. This will cost $12,500 and be like an earthquake detector.

Also, a total of $75,000 is set aside for improvements to the city’s Carl May Center. Flooring and the sound system will need improvements, and RDA funding will help contribute to these items.

The city also proposes to build a security fence around the skate park

located adjacent to the Fire Station and the Chamber of Commerce building. Restrooms are to be built, with steel toilets, which would be harder to destroy. This price tag hovers around $175,000 for the 2009-2010 year.

These items were all unanimously approved, with Councilwoman Jan Pye being absent.

The next four hours were spent discussing the operating budget. There will be 10% of reserve monies set aside, which total to about $1,379,000. Councilmembers discussed how to find $50,000 to set aside for the Desert Resource Center, which is the West Valley Homeless Shelter. Although no action was taken, council discussed the possibilities of delaying the hiring of four new police officers, selling unused police cars, delaying annexation of some of the proposed lands, delaying Carl May Center improvements, cutting benefits and salaries, dipping into the reserves, or causing more layoffs. City manager Rick Daniels explained that the Carl May center funding comes from RDA and therefore, cannot be used for any other reason. So the item will come back on the July 7th City

Council meeting. According to Mayor Pro Tem Karl Baker, the city of Palm Springs will not be able to contribute their share of money to the center, as all nine Coachella Valley cities promised to do so.

Councilmember Russell Betts tried to delay the budget discussion until the next city council meeting, but without a second to his motion, he was unsuccessful.

Total expenditures to the city round up to be nearly $14 million, with $8.4 million going towards Public Safety.

One of the biggest cuts to the city services will be to the City Attorney, as expenses are going to be 33% less than the previous year. Plus, according to City Finance Director Jason Simpson, there will be seven positions cut from payroll. No word on which seven jobs will be cut, he says. Simpson made one thing clear, there will be no pay cuts anywhere across the board.

“Everybody did a great job making this budget easy to read,” said Mayor Yvonne Parks. “This is a projected budget, and hopefully our projections are good and we will be able to live with them.”

DHS Approves New Budget For 2009-2010

No Pay Cuts In Sight?

Russell Betts, Karl Baker Jr. Yvonne Parks, (are we in the red) and Scott Matas

BY LESLIE ANDREWS

Desert Hot

Springs

STEREOPSISBY MATT WEYUKER

Former Mayor Matt Weyuker

4 THE MATT WEYUKER COLUMN June 27, 2009

Palm Springs, CA Big Brothers and Big Sisters of the Desert will be at Palm Springs Stadium this Sunday June 28, 2009 to play softball with members of the POWER baseball team.

The softball games will be two hours and go from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

The Palm Springs POWER Baseball Club recruits elite collegiate players from around the country to come to Palm Springs and play baseball in the months of May, June and July. The POWER organization strives to provide affordable entertainment as well as

quality baseball for the residents of the Coachella Valley.

For information on POWER tickets, visit www.palmspringspowerbaseball.com. For any other information contact the Palm Springs POWER Baseball office at 778-HITS (4487).

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF THE DESERT TO PLAY SOFTBALL WITH THE POWER SUNDAY

Many of us “Colombo” aficionados have become sadly aware that actor Peter Falk, who played the rumpled-raincoat wearing LA homicide detective Lt. Colombo, has been stricken with dementia. Well, I’ve been thinking – suppose Lt. Colombo interrogated President Obama, using his hesitant and self-effacing style in posing his questions.

I imagine the questioning might go something like this – “Excuse me Mr. Obama, I mean President Obama, Sir. Um…I know you are busy, and doing important stuff. I mean running the country is very important and – ah – I hate to bother you Sir. I will take only a minute of your time. OK Sir?

See Mr. President, I have these missing pieces of this important case that are holding me up, so I was wondering Sir, if you could take time outta your busy schedule to help me out – I would really appreciate it Sir. You know, no big deal – just some loose ends and things like that.

Hey, you have a nice place here! My wife sees places like this on TV all the time and says boy she wishes she had digs like this, you know? Is that painting real? Wow! I saw something like that in a museum once. Oh sorry Sir, I didn’t mean to get off the track that way. So if you could just

help me out a minute and give some of the details, I’ll get out of your way. I need to close this case, and maybe take the wife to “Disneyland,” or something. Have you ever been to “Disneyland,” Sir? No – I didn’t think so.

Well listen, anyway, I can’t seem to get the information I need to wrap this case up. Things seem to be “Not Released,” or “Not Available” – so I was hoping that you could help me out here Sir. I’m sure that it’s just an oversight or glitch, or something, so if you could tell me where those things are – I have my questions written down somewhere – oh wait. I found them – sorry about the smears, you know about cops and donuts. I’ll just read them to you.

Could you please help me out with the places where I can find these things Sir?1. CERTIFIED COPY OF ORIGINAL BIRTH CERTIFICATE – NOT RELEASED; 2. EMBOSSED, SIGNED CERTIFICATION OF LIVE BIRTH – NOT RELEASED; 3. RECORD OF YOUR BAPTISM – NOT AVAILABLE.4. OCCIDENTAL COLLEGE RECORDS – NOT RELEASED; 5. COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY RECORDS – NOT RELEASED; 6. COLUMBIA THESIS PAPER – NOT

AVAILABLE; 7. HARVARD LAW SCHOOL RECORDS – NOT RELEASED;8. SELECTIVE SERVICE RECORDS – NOT RELEASED; 9. MEDICAL RECORDS – NOT RELEASED; 10. ILLINOIS STATE SENATE SCHEDULE AND RECORDS – NOT AVAILABLE; 11. LAW PRACTICE CLIENT LIST – NOT RELEASED.

Oh, and one more thing Mr. President, I can’t seem to find any articles that you published as editor of the Harvard Law Review, or as a Professor at the University of Chicago – can you explain that to me Sir?

Oh but, hey – listen! I know you’re busy! If these questions are too much for you right now – tell you what, I’ll come back tomorrow – give you some time to get these things together, you know? I know you’re busy, so I’ll just let myself out. I’ll be back tomorrow, and the day after…

What’s that Mr. President? Who wants to know these things? We the People of the United States of America! You know, the ones who vote!”

STEREOPSISJUNE 27

5CALIFORNIA’S SPA CITY • DESERT LOCAL NEWS June 27, 2009

Nestled in the foothills of Joshua Tree National Park, beautiful Miracle Springs Resort and Spa overlooks the Palm Springs Valley. 110 Large, Comfortable Rooms ~ 8 Natural Hot Mineral Water Pools ~ Excellent Restaurant ~ Lounge ~ Full-Service Spa ~ Weddings and Banquets.

Call 1-800-400-4414 for more information about MIRACLE SPRINGS RESORT & SPA

Miracle Springs Resort & Spa

6 DESERT LOCAL NEWS JUNE 27, 2009 DESERT LOCAL NEWS June 27, 2009

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

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

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

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

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

Pay Your Bills Online at www.MSWD.org!

Water...~ The Jewel of the Desert ~

Treasure it!

NOW AVAILABLE!Online Bill Pay at MSWD

Conservation - It’s a Way of Life!

5DESERT LOCAL NEWS • FEBRUARY 4, 2009 DESERT LOCAL NEWS June 27, 2009 7

Desert Cities Network™ (“DCN”), is the first short form, On Demand and

Online Broadcast Network dedicated to providing cutting-

edge, original, high quality entertaining and informational

programming to a global audience.

Watch DCN programming on Time Warner Cable’s Desert Cities On Demand (Channel 110, Desert Cities Network

tab). “When you want it!” or right here!

Living in Om™ - Topics range from the healing arts to New Thought, professional relationship information, healthy living and even Astrology! Hosts: Various. (This video features a full length yoga routine and may take a little longer than other videos on the site for viewers with slower connections or older computers).

Spa 411 - A luxurious look at the finest spas, their signature treatments and myriad of healing benefits! Hosted by Dan McGrath.

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Leanna Bonamici760.275.7908

Maryann Ridini Spencer818.275.7908

Maryann Ridini Spencer

Thanks for your continuing coverage of Desert Hot Springs. I write to correct two points in a

recent column appearing in your paper by former councilman Hank Hohenstein.

On the departure of former city manager Ann Marie Gallant, Hohenstein writes “Three council candidates that were elected in the last election all vowed to bring back Gallant if elected.” It may be a minor point, but to correct the record, I did not take such a vow.

As the minutes should reflect, at the first opportunity to address the former city council after it was learned Gallant had left the city my advice to the council was to due a proper search for a replacement.

I have managed personnel changes in my career and it is rare that in such circumstances someone is brought back, especially after an extended period of time has passed.

In those situations, those on the way out find other positions and those taking the position settle in to the job. Gallant is now serving the city of Alameda. Rick Daniels

has obviously settled in and is doing a good job.

On a larger issue, that of extensive residential paving taking place, Hohenstein is not correct that it was the former city council that laid the ground work for this effort.

I’m grateful to my fellow council members to have been handed the responsibility to chair a sub-committee looking at our residential streets. Working with the committee members, our first task was to assess previous plans.

Hohenstein is correct that a plan was in place. That plan, however, did not lay the ground work for what ultimately became a change in focus away from paving streets in the middle of the desert and instead one that put down new blacktop in front of our homes.

That plan we were handed, in fact, included the paving of roads that were the responsibility of developers as a condition of their project’s approvals. It also included the paving or roads not in the city, for example, in Mission Lakes Country Club.

Wi thou t belaboring the issue, the focus of the old plan was not the plan proposed by our sub-committee and ultimately adopted by the current council. Credit must go to the new council for putting in place a radically different paving plan.

A council position takes a lot of time and requires some difficult decisions. That is just as true of the former council. Hohenstein can rightly point to favorable decisions made in his term, chief among them the hiring of Daniels. And his input to the public debate is always welcome, even if we disagree on these details.

Best Regards,Russell BettsCouncilman Desert Hot Springs

Letter to the Editor:

We welcome your opinion, you can email your “Letter to the Editor” editor@desertlocalnews.com

8 PALM SPRINGS • DESERT LOCAL NEWS June 27, 2009

PALM SPRINGS, CA-Las Vegas is known to

always constantly change when it comes to the casinos on the strip and downtown. Having lived there for a couple of years, I have seen some buildings come and go. Now Palm Springs is following suit, with a classic structure, known as the Town and Country Center, failing preservation and facing demolition. For what reason? To make way for a new road, leading into the Desert Fashion Plaza, a structure that has been defunct for well over a decade.

The Wessman Development company has had big plans for the former mall, as was reported previously in Desert Local News. Having been built in the mid-1980s, there have been some unoccupied spaces that have remained empty from the beginning to the end. Now, millions of dollars are to be spent to fix the mall and build a new road. This would take a long time to complete, and would possibly disrupt business in Palm Springs, which is badly needed for survival in a down economy.

What will happen to businesses like Grill-A-Burger or Zelda’s Nightclub now that the building that they occupy is to be demolished? Popular sites like these will be forced to relocate or shut down completely. This will cost plenty for these shop owners.

Reaction to the news was split Wednesday night when the

City Council of Palm Springs voted unanimously to have the Town and Country center denied a Class One Historical Designation. Those who wanted to keep Palm Springs the way it is, with its retro charm from the 1950s during the city’s heyday, were unhappy. Those who believe in the Wessman Company have hope that they will improve the image of Palm Springs once and for all.

Demolishment will not come in the form of exploding buildings, like they did in Vegas with the Boardwalk and Stardust buildings. Imagine if they did that in Palm Springs.

However, with six nearby Indian casinos, with a seventh one on the way from the Agua Caliente tribe, Palm Springs is starting to become a little bit like Sin City after all. However, not much is talked about with the plans for a Hard Rock Hotel coming to our destination resort city. According to their corporate site, expect the hotel to arrive in 2011.

Then again, maybe a change will do the city of Palm Springs some good. Like how Vegas changes its face with new developments and projects coming rapidly, maybe Palm Springs will see the same during the next ten years. Times may be rough now, but when this economy improves, Palm Springs and Las Vegas would be in neck-to-neck competition as to who is the better world class resort.

EDITORIAL BY LESLIE ANDREWS

Will Palm Springs Become Another Vegas- Always Changing Faces?

9DESERT LOCAL NEWS June 27, 2009

C DESERT HOT SPRINGS REAL ESTATE10

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C DESERT HOT SPRINGS REAL ESTATE 11INTERNATIONAL NEWS • DESERT LOCAL NEWS June 27, 2009

Your new 46-inch flat-screen TV may be your pride and joy, but did you know it can also be a safety risk to something else precious in your life? Like other types of heavy furniture, improperly mounted or secured flat-screen TVs can tip over, crushing, injuring and even killing small children.

Each year, injuries suffered beneath fallen furniture and TVs send an average of 15,000 children younger than 18 to the emergency room, according to a recent study by Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. The injury rate has increased more than 40 percent in the 10-year study period.

Mounting a flat screen on the wall has numerous advantages, including aesthetic appeal and keeping your expensive investment out of reach of little hands. When done properly with a high-quality device, mounting a flat screen on the wall is much safer than placing it atop furniture.

Look for a product, like Sanus’ VisionMount series, which incorporates a wall plate that secures into the studs behind the wall, and attaches to the TV with mounting brackets. All mounts within the Sanus offering lock securely to the wall and all are rated by Underwriters Laboratories, an independent organization that subjects products to rigorous safety testing.

To learn more about options for safely mounting your TV, visit www.Sanus.com. Courtesy ARA content.

Steps for safely mounting your flat-screen TV

your expensive investment out of reach of little hands. When done properly with a high-quality device, mounting a flat screen on the wall is much

Look for a product, like Sanus’ VisionMount series, which incorporates a wall plate that secures into the studs behind the wall, and attaches to the TV with mounting brackets. All mounts within the Sanus offering lock securely to the wall and all are rated by Underwriters Laboratories, an independent organization that subjects products to rigorous safety

To learn more about options for safely mounting your TV, visit www.Sanus.com. Courtesy ARA

BY STAFF ARA

The proposition of selling a home is getting better with each passing day according to a recently released report from the National Association of Realtors. If you need to sell your home, a few smart strategies can help you increase your profits.

“Bargain hunters are beginning to make moves on homes that are still way undervalued’’ says Joanne Sebby, a licensed real estate broker in Chicago, and operator of a local Two Men and a Truck moving franchise.

“Most home sales involve some service-oriented companies such as moving companies, carpet cleaners, painters or other services,” she says.

Sebby suggests sellers need to think of their bottom line when selecting service companies in order to maximize profits on their home, and consider pitching in to keep costs down.

“Determine what budget you have to work with and be up front with the people providing you with estimates,” Sebby says. “I’ll often counsel people who call our moving company to maybe box and label everything themselves, or have all the boxes collected in the room closest to the front door. If there’s a number we have to work with, we’ll make suggestions on how to make it work to suit their needs.”

passing day according to a recently released report from the National Association of Realtors. If you need to sell your home, a few smart strategies can help you increase your profits.

that are still way undervalued’’ says Joanne Sebby, a licensed real estate broker in Chicago, and operator of a local Two Men and a Truck moving franchise.

such as moving companies, carpet cleaners, painters or other services,” she says.

when selecting service companies in order to maximize profits on their home, and consider pitching in to keep costs down.

up front with the people providing you with estimates,” Sebby says. “I’ll often counsel people who call our moving company to maybe box and label everything themselves, or have all the boxes collected in the room closest to the front door. If there’s a number we have to work with, we’ll make suggestions on how to make it work to suit their needs.”

Smart strategies to increase home sale profits

POWER MAKE

ROAD LIFE MISERABLE

FOR PIONEERS,

CRUISE 19-0Palm Springs, CA The Orange Coun-

ty Pioneers packed up and headed east on a trail to Palm Springs, but the con-fines were not friendly as the POWER pounded them for 20 hits and won easily 19-0 on Chipotle Night, Friday night, in-side Palm Springs Stadium.

20 POWER players had at least one at-bat during the game, including three pitchers. Two of the pitchers, Aaron

Brooks and Bryan Longpre each collect-ed a hit in their one at-bat. 12 players each had at least one hit and Jay Poncia-no and Tyler Saladino led the team with three base hits each.

The POWER manufactured some runs early in the bottom of the first inning and second inning with a combined six hits and forced four walks to take a 7-0 lead. They had two runs in the first inning with a double from P.J. Jimenez. Base hits from Kevin Medrano and Josh Man-zano scored three runs in the bottom of the second as they quickly grabbed a 7-0 advantage.

The third inning provided even more runs for the POWER who used four sin-gles, a triple, and a walk to pilot them to a monstrous 12-0 lead. The Pioneers tried a few more pitchers in Karl Stuck and Zach Nuno, but the POWER continued to put on a hitting display and scored a few more runs in the fourth and fifth innings to go up 15-0. After scoring at least a run in every inning, the Pioneers finally held the POWER scoreless in the sixth inning.

The POWER had as good of a night on defense as they did offensively with

starting pitcher Travis Blankenship cruis-ing through the Pioneer?s lineup. Blan-kenship received the easy victory after pitching five innings, striking out six bat-ters with his trademark slider, and only surrendering a hit and a walk during his outing. The relief pitching had a solid outing after Bear Custer replaced Blan-kenship, pitching three innings and only giving up one base hit. Brooks Belter pitched a flawless ninth inning and struck out the side in order.

The offense and defense both played great tonight,? POWER Hitting Coach Bill Acedo said. ?They did a good job to-night. A lot of guys were able to get some quality at-bats and really took advantage of them.?

The POWER will finish the two game set with the Pioneer?s tomorrow night at 7:05 p.m. Aaron Brooks will take the mound for the POWER. All citizens of Palm Desert will receive a discounted $5 admission and the first 100 people will receive a free ticket to the Living Desert Zoo. The Living Desert will have a live tortoise on hand.

12 13

http://desertcitiesguides.com

BASEBALL • PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA • DESERT LOCAL NEWS June 27, 2009

©

12 13DESERT LOCAL NEWS June 27, 2009

How often do we take for granted that help in an emergency is just a 911-call away? Yet the recession is taking a toll on the group which is often the first responder in any emergency -- firefighters. What’s more, nearly half of all firefighters agree that if the down-turn continues for another year, it may affect their ability to serve their com-munities.

That’s one of the most eye-open-ing findings from a recent survey by Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company, which polled nearly 9,500 fire depart-ments (30 percent of all departments in the country). The survey, “Support-ing Safer Communities: A National Firefighter Survey” found that the top three challenges facing fire depart-ments today are lack of budget; old or outdated equipment, gear and appara-tus; and staffing, recruiting and retain-ing qualified firefighters.

In addition, more than half of all fire departments said the poor economy meant they had to increase fundrais-ing efforts or grant writing due to bud-get cutbacks. And 55 percent strongly agree or agree with the statement, “If the economic situation continues for another 12 months, it will negatively affect our ability to serve our commu-nity.”

“When you consider that firefight-ers are the first responders to nearly every fire, medical emergency, and natural or man-made disaster in our local communities, it is imperative that we have adequate funding to ensure we keep our communities safe,” says Chief Larry J. Grorud, president of the International Association of Fire Chiefs. “This study helps to show the needs of today’s fire service in com-munities across the country.”

Among the survey’s most compelling findings:

* One out of four fire depart-ments do not have adequate extrica-tion equipment needed to safely and quickly remove injured people from a vehicle crash.

* Seventy-six percent of depart-ments do not believe their organiza-tion is adequately trained to deal with terrorism or weapons of mass destruc-tion.

* Fifty-seven percent of all volun-teer departments (70 percent of all U.S. fire departments) are losing volunteers who need to look for other jobs.

* Fifty-two percent of departments do not feel they are adequately trained to handle hazardous material inci-dents. One-third of departments don’t have and need protective equipment for all fire personnel to respond to haz-ardous materials incidents.

* Only 50 percent of departments have protective equipment for all per-sonnel to respond to wild-land fires.

* Thirteen percent of responding departments don’t have at least one thermal imaging camera, considered a critical tool to identify hot spots and locate injured or sleeping persons in a burning building. Only 41 percent of fire departments have at least one per engine company.

Not all the findings were grim. Many firefighters had positive information to convey about their departments:

* Despite the current economic cri-sis, only 17 percent of fire departments felt the quality of service they provide has declined.

* Ninety percent of fire depart-ments believe they have adequate training for structural fires.

* Sixty-two percent are confident in their fire service organizations’ di-saster response capabilities.

“As a company, Fireman’s Fund believes it is extremely important to raise awareness of the needs of lo-cal fire departments,” says Chuck Kavitsky, chairman of Fireman’s Fund. “Supporting the fire service means safer communities. That is why we have focused our philanthropic giving to directing grants to fire departments throughout the country.”

Ipsos Public Affairs of New York conducted the study, which was avail-able online for six weeks from mid-Feb-ruary to March 31, 2009 to any career and volunteer firefighters, regardless of geography, rank or size of their com-munity. About 17,500 firefighters from nearly 9,500 departments participated, 61 percent of which hold the rank of fire official (chief, captain or lieuten-ant). These findings are based on data at the department level rather than on all respondents. Full results can be found at www.firemansfund.com. An executive sum-mary by Ipsos is available at www.ipsos-na.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

BY STAFF ARARecession impacting U.S.

fire departments, survey says ©

14 15REAL ESTATE • DESERT LOCAL NEWS June 27, 2009

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14 15DESERT LOCAL NEWS

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CATHEDRAL CITY, CALIFORNIA • DESERT LOCAL NEWS • June 27, 2009 17

Photos and Story by Bruce Montgomery

What do you do when the temperature reaches triple digits? A great place to cool off and have fun is the Fountain of Life in Cathedral City (directly south of city offices, near Mary Pickford theater). Creating the wonderful water park were artist Jennifer Johnson; architect Reuel Young, and built by House of Stone.

Fountain of Life in Cathedral City

18 LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA • Just in... FARRAH FAWCETT died at age 62

Farrah Fawcett dead at 62 (February 2, 1947– June 25, 2009)

was an American actress. A multiple Golden Globe and Emmy Award nominee, Fawcett rose to international fame when she first appeared as private investigator Jill Munroe in the TV series Charlie’s Angels in 1976. Fawcett later appeared off-Broadway to the approval of critics and in highly rated television movies in roles often challenging (The Burning Bed, Nazi Hunter: The

Beate Klarsfeld Story, Poor Little Rich Girl: The Barbara Hutton Story, Margaret Bourke-White) and sometimes unsympathetic (Small Sacrifices). Fawcett was also

a pop culture figure whose hairstyle was emulated by millions of young women and whose poster sales broke records, making her an international sex symbol in the 1970s and 1980s. While her impact was particularly

strong on the teens of the 1970s (Generation Jones), her appeal spreads over multiple generations.GO

OD BY

E FAR

RAH F

AWCE

TT

Her longtime love, Ryan O’Neal, released this

statement:“After a long and brave battle with cancer, our beloved Farrah has

passed away. Although this is an extremely

difficult time for her family and friends, we take

comfort in the beautiful times that we shared with Farrah over the years and

the knowledge that her life brought joy to so many people around the world.”

19LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNA • Just in... DESERT LOCAL NEWS June 27, 2009 BY LESLIE ANDREWS

LOS ANGELES, CA- Michael Jackson, the self-dubbed King

of Pop, has died on Thursday. He was only fifty years old.

According to reports, Jackson has been facing health issues as early as the 1990s. It is not yet clear how he died, but he was discovered unresponsive and not breathing at around 12:30 a.m. Thursday afternoon in his Los Angeles home. He was then rushed to UCLA Medical Center where he was later pronounced dead at around 3:30 p.m.

Jackson is survived by three children, his parents and eight siblings. Brad Mercer of KDGL-FM 106.9 reported during his airtime that Jackson possibly died of a heart attack at around 3:35 p.m. Local radio stations KPSI “Mix” 100.5 FM and KDES 104.7 have been playing Jackson’s music constantly in tribute to the fallen pop icon.

Born in 1958 in Gary, Indiana, Jackson grew up in a musical family. He became a member of the Jackson Five when he was six years old after singing at a school talent show. The J5 became a household name in 1969 with their hit “I Want You Back”, followed by their signature classic, “ABC”. Jackson recorded his first solo album in 1972, with hits like “Rocking Robin” and “Got To Be There”. In 1979, he broke ground on his solo career with his “Off The Wall” album, then recorded the number one album “Thriller” in 1983. This sold 46 million copies and stayed at Number One for nearly 37 weeks. Two more record breaking albums followed, titled “Bad” in 1987 and “Dangerous” in 1991.

Jackson was also known for buying the entire Beatles music catalog in 1985. This led to a falling out between himself and Paul McCartney.

Jackson’s image became tarnished in 1993 when a 13-year-old boy accused him of sexual assault while hanging out at his Neverland Ranch in Santa Maria, California. This was settled in a $13 million settlement out of court. Ten years later, Jackson was arrested for the same thing in Santa Barbara as another boy accused him of getting him drunk and molesting him. Jackson was later acquitted of all charges in 2005.

Jackson had been married twice. To Lisa Marie Presley in 1994 and to Debbie Rowe in 1999. With Rowe, he had three children, named Paris, Prince Michael I and Prince Michael II. Both marriages ended in divorce.

Jackson was planning to make a comeback performance in July in England before his untimely death on Thursday.

Michael JacksonDead at 50

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20 21DESERT LOCAL NEWS June 27, 2009

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With summer upon us, warmer weather beckons everyone outdoors to enjoy the sunshine. When family and friends gather for backyard barbecues and outings in the park, it is natural to want to include the pets. It is wise, though, to consider the health and safety of pets before taking them out into the heat for prolonged periods.

Pets cannot tolerate heat the same way as people. One big reason is that dogs don’t sweat, thereby lacking a natural way to cool down. To help ensure your pets don’t suffer from the heat, veterinarian Tracy Chase-Thompson, department chair of the veterinary technology program at Brown Mackie College in Michigan City, Ind., offers advice. “Heat exhaustion is one of the big things that can occur,” she says. “It happens more with dogs than cats, but it can occur with both.”

Heat exhaustion is a dangerous condition in animals that occurs due to lack of protection from hot weather and humidity. “It doesn’t take much time for heat exhaustion to develop,” says Chase-Thompson. “A dog can overheat in a hot vehicle in just 10 minutes.” Symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy panting, drooling and labored breathing. “Gum color is another indicator. If gums appear red instead of pink, that’s a sign of an animal in distress.”

If it happens, Chase-Thompson recommends moving the animal to a cool spot immediately. “Give the dog water to drink, and wipe a cool washcloth over the fur. Don’t just dump water over the animal. It helps to place the paws in cool water as well,” she says. She does not recommend an ice bath. “If an animal cools too quickly, it can go into shock.”

Normal body temperature for a dog is between 101 F and 102 F. “A temperature higher than 105 F signals heat exhaustion,” says Chase-Thompson. In this case, the dog would require veterinarian care with IV fluids for hydration, and close monitoring of body temperature.

Pet owners can take a number of precautions to prevent heat

stress and exhaustion in pets. If your dog will spend any amount of time outside, Chase-Thompson advises providing a shelter so that the dog can access shade at all times, and walking your dog before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. when sunlight and humidity are less powerful. “It is safer to leave your pet at home on hot or humid days rather than in the car, even with the windows cracked. If you must take your pet, park in the shade, open the window, and don’t leave for more than 10 minutes,” she adds.

Another concern among pet owners is how to protect a pet that is afraid of the noise from fireworks and thunderstorms. “Some pets have a fear of noise at a young age. Others are fine when they’re young, yet become bothered by loud sounds as they grow older,” says Chase-Thompson. “It’s impossible to make the noise go away, but there are ways to minimize or disguise the noise.

“If you leave the dog alone, it could help to leave music playing. Turn on the radio or TV, or even a loud fan or air conditioner,” she advises. “If the animal’s reaction is really bad, I recommend staying with your pet to provide reassurance. There are anti-anxiety medications that a veterinarian can prescribe.” Chase-Thompson advises discussing with your veterinarian whether your pet is a good candidate. “Medications can help, but they don’t always work. It is important to lessen your pet’s fear with other types of comfort,” she says.

Try to give your pet a safe place where they won’t hurt themselves. And forget about reprimanding behavior that results from fear of loud noises. “They can’t simply change,” Chase-Thompson says. “Some pets like an item of the

owner’s for comfort, like a T-shirt or old shoe.” A little knowledge can go a long way in protecting your pet from the pitfalls that summer brings.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Summer pet protection from heat and fireworks

22 DESERT LOCAL NEWS JUNE 27, 2009

As a proud new parent, you want to make sure that you capture every precious moment of your new baby’s life. For families on a budget, learning how to take great photography at home can be easy and fun.Jodie Otte, the photographer behind the Similac Advance EarlyShield advertising campaign, reveals her tips on how to take and archive the best shots:

* Get natural: When taking a picture of your newborn, you want the “soft glow” to emanate. The best way to achieve that is through natural lighting.

* Practice patience: Infants are fueled by curiosity. Everything captures their attention. Try to get them to focus on one object throughout the shoot. * Go black and white: Not only are these photos classic and timeless, but they’re also the best option when trying to attain that professional look.

* Sharing is caring: To save time and cash, upload photos to free Web sites such as Shutterfly.com and create a personalized baby photo book.

* Store safely: After countless captured memories, be sure to have hard copies as well and archive photos with care. Choose albums that are acid- and lignin-free in order to prevent photos from yellowing or becoming damaged. Courtesy ARA content

For more information visit www.earlyshield.com.

As a proud new parent, you want to make sure that you capture every precious moment of your new you capture every precious moment of your new baby’s life. For families on a budget, learning how to take great photography at home can be easy and fun.Jodie Otte, the photographer behind the Similac Advance EarlyShield advertising campaign, reveals her tips on how to take and archive the best shots:

* Get natural: When taking a picture of your newborn, you want the “soft glow” to emanate. The best way to achieve that is through natural lighting.

* Practice patience: Infants are fueled by curiosity. Everything captures their attention. Try to get them to focus on one object throughout the shoot. * Go black and white: Not only are these photos classic and timeless, but they’re also the best option when trying to attain that professional look.

* Sharing is caring: To save time and cash, upload photos to free Web sites such as Shutterfly.com and create a personalized baby photo book.

* Store safely: After countless captured memories, be sure to have hard copies as well and archive photos with care. Choose albums that are acid- and lignin-free in order to prevent photos from yellowing or becoming damaged. Courtesy ARA content

For more information visit www.earlyshield.com.

Capture precious baby memories at every milestone

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DESERT LOCAL NEWS GREEN PAGES© • June 27, 2009 THE ‘NEW’ DESERT LOCAL NEWS GREEN PAGES©24

Older Americans who add more natural light to their living quarters when they move or remodel benefit from improved vision and mood in a safer environment. And daylighting, which utilizes no energy and carries no ongoing costs, is another benefit to the pocketbook of boomers on fixed incomes.

Boomers know that as they age their eye lenses thicken and their pupils shrink. This causes their eyes to adapt more slowly to changing light conditions and increases the need for light.

According to the Center of Design for an Aging Society in Portland, Ore., older people need about three to five times more light than younger people for both vision and maintaining health.

Many seniors don’t get outside enough; another reason to bring more natural light in, especially when remodeling. Studies show that Seasonal Affective Disorder, also known as SAD -- evidenced by

emotional depression, a drop in physical energy, increased appetite and need for more sleep -- is directly linked to a lack of sufficient daylighting.

Some researchers conclude that light therapy may help to alleviate SAD symptoms faster than antidepressant drugs. In a review of clinical trials of light therapy, Dr. Daniel Kripke at the University of California, San Diego, reported that light therapy benefits not only SAD patients but also people suffering from other forms of depression.

Sunlight can enter dwellings and be balanced through the use of windows, doors and skylights. According to Joe Patrick, senior product manager with VELUX America, studies conducted in Denmark show skylights admit 30 percent more light than vertical windows in dormers, and provide the drama of a sky view that can’t be achieved with vertical windows. And balanced natural light from multiple sources can help to reduce glare, a particularly disorienting

nuisance for people of all ages with glaucoma or cataracts.

“Skylights also offer much more privacy than vertical windows without taking up valuable wall space that can be used for decorating or storage, a real benefit as seniors downsize living spaces,” Patrick says.

He points out that venting skylights -- utilizing their natural chimney effect to exhaust rising, stale air containing volatile organic compounds and other indoor pollutants to which older people are particularly sensitive -- can contribute to a healthier indoor environment.

“And from an economic standpoint, ENERGY STAR-qualified venting skylights admit natural light from above and reduce energy costs while transforming living areas into bright, safer spaces,” Patrick says. “And they provide a dose of the medicine that daylight and fresh air offer. It’s also a way to stretch fixed-income dollars with a one-time purchase that pays benefits over time by reducing

the need for artificial lighting and cutting energy costs.”

In areas where traditional skylights aren’t needed or won’t fit, cost-effective, passive light to further reduce energy costs is available with models like the Sun Tunnel tubular skylight. These less expensive units are particularly useful in hallways, closets, interior baths and other smaller, confined areas needing more natural light.

For free information on the benefits of natural light and skylight selection, or for free house plans incorporating skylights, call (800) 283-2831 or visit veluxusa.com. For government information on window and skylight energy efficiency visit energystar.gov, and for independent agency information visit nfrc.org or efficientwindows.org. For information about aging in place, see seniorresource.com

Courtesy of ARAcontent

As their eyes age, boomers find that balanced natural lighting from skylights and windows becomes more important.

Boomers are adding tubular skylights to make interiors safer and more attractive.

Boomers join the

green movement

with natural light

BY STAFF ARA

24DESERT LOCAL NEWS GREEN PAGES© • June 27, 2009

Gas and energy prices are rising again, and that means Americans must tighten their belts even further. You don’t need to dread hot summer temps and high air conditioning bills when you have ceiling fans in your home.

If you already have fans in place, check to see whether they are Energy Star qualified. Ceiling fan and light combinations that have earned Energy Star accreditation are about 50 percent more efficient than non-conforming units. The difference lies in improved motors and blade designs. A model with an Energy Star light kit included provides even greater energy savings, and the bulbs don’t need to be changed as often.

“Consumer demand for more energy-efficient products has driven the industry to integrate new lighting, blade and motor technologies that save operating costs. New products integrating the latest technologies are up to 75 percent more efficient than previous models” says Steve Cox, vice president and general manager of Emerson Ceiling Fans.

Paul Vrabel, a principal at ICF International, an energy solutions firm that partners with government clients, explains how to operate fans correctly. “Put them on when you are in the room -- during the day and when sleeping -- and turn them off when you leave. Ceiling fans cool people, not air,” he says. “Using fans wisely while turning down the [air conditioner] can save a lot of money.”

Ceiling fans do such an efficient job of circulating air, they probably should be everywhere. “Any type of room can benefit,” says Nathan Frampton, president of ceiling fan company Fanimation. “Bedrooms, family rooms, and exterior living spaces are the most common applications, but we are seeing [them used] more in larger bathrooms, walk-in closets, home offices and garages.”

Size mattersDennis Davenport, vice president of

product development for Monte Carlo Fans, concurs. “Consumers are installing ceiling fans throughout their homes,” he says, pointing to the rapid growth of models in all sizes. “For example, fans with blade spans of 54, 60 and 72 inches are increasingly popular for living rooms, while those with 24-inch spans are being installed in hallways and walk-in closets.”

How do you estimate the best size

for your needs? “A good rule of thumb is a 36- to 52-inch diameter blade sweep for rooms measuring 200 square feet or less,” Frampton says. “For rooms 200 to 400 square feet, we recommend a diameter of 52 inches or greater; if the space is more than 400 square feet, two or more fans will be needed.”

The number of blades makes some difference in airflow, however, whether to choose a four-, five-, or six-blade version is really a matter of aesthetics, according to

Frampton. “You hear a lot about blade pitch, diameter and motor size. These are factors that will affect airflow, but in the end the best way to judge is to stand under the fan you prefer and decided if the airflow feels sufficient,” he says.

It’s important not to underestimate. “The most common size sold in the U.S. is a 52-inch diameter. This fan size provides excellent results in rooms up to 150 square feet, but can also be appropriate for smaller rooms since it can be adjusted with multiple speeds and the direction of the blades can be reversed,” says Joe Rey-Barreau, education consultant for the American Lighting Association (ALA) and an associate professor at the University of Kentucky’s School of Interior Design. “It’s better to choose a slightly larger fan for a room than to choose a diameter that might prove to be too small to adequately provide air movement.”

Do you need a light kit?Many fans now come with integrated

lighting or offer a coordinating light kit available as an option. These lights do not offer enough illumination on their own, but

they are useful in a room that already has some form of ambient lighting. “Ceiling fan lights should be considered as accent and mood lighting,” Davenport says.

Should a ceiling fan blend in or stand out?

The next step to consider is whether you’d like it to serve as a focal point or be more understated. “Is the room contemporary, traditional, tropical or transitional? Ceiling fans can serve as a

design feature,” says Frampton.

“ T h e primary trend in ceiling fan design has been for styles that create aesthetic statements as bold as a chandelier,” says Rey-Barreau. “This follows the overall trend in residential design for more varied and more sophisticated concepts. Today a consumer can find a ceiling fan that matches any interior design.”

Fans help in winter, tooIn the summer, ceiling fans offer a

comfortable alternative and accompaniment to air conditioning, but in the winter employing the reversible blade option provides a means of circulating the hotter air that rises to the ceiling. This helps save on heating bills when the weather gets cold.

For more information about how to utilize ceiling fans for year-round comfort in a fashionable style, contact an ALA member showroom. Go to www.AmericanLightingAssoc.com or call (800) BRIGHTIDEAS for a list of stores in your neighborhood.

Ceiling fans can save you energy all year long

DESERT LOCAL NEWS GREEN PAGES© June 27, 2009 DESERT LOCAL NEWS GREEN PAGES© June 27, 200926

At the 42nd Annual Meeting of Stockholders of Volkswagen AG in Hamburg, the most economical car in the world is presented: the 1-litre car. The prototype, which until now has been kept closely under wraps, and which many people never believed could be built, was driven under its own power from Wolfsburg to the Annual Meeting in Hamburg. Before the Annual Meeting, the current Chairman of the Board of Management, Dr. Ferdinand Piëch, drove this research vehicle to

Hamburg from the company’s headquarters at an average fuel consumption of 0.89 litres per 100 kilometres. This has once against impressively demonstrated Volkswagen’s position at the cutting edge of modern technology.

The objective of developing a roadworthy vehicle that consumes just 1.0 litre of fuel per 100 kilometres could not be achieved through compromise. All existing technical solutions were examined, and in close cooperation with numerous

suppliers, replaced by better, and principally lighter versions. The result is a vehicle that looks more like a sports car than a typical research vehicle.

The conceptual necessity for a small frontal area led to an unusually narrow and very flat body form being chosen. The body was developed in a wind tunnel, is 3.47 metres long, but just 1.25 metres wide and just over a metre in height, and is made completely of carbon fibre composites. To save weight, it is of course not painted.

The carbon-fibre-reinforced outer skin is tensioned over a spaceframe that is not made of aluminium, but rather of magnesium, which is even lighter.

The 1-litre car is powered by a one-cylinder diesel engine, centrally positioned in front of the rear axle and combined with an automated direct shift gearbox. The crankcase and cylinder head of the 0.3-litre engine are of an aluminium monobloc construction. The naturally aspirated, direct-injection diesel

DESERT LOCAL NEWS GREEN PAGES© June 27, 200926

At the 42nd Annual Meeting of Stockholders of Volkswagen AG in Hamburg, the most economical car in the world is

Hamburg from the company’s headquarters at an average fuel consumption of 0.89 litres per 100 kilometres. This has

suppliers, replaced by better, and principally lighter versions. The result is a vehicle that looks more like a sports car than a

The carbon-fibre-reinforced outer skin is tensioned over a spaceframe that is not made of aluminium, but rather of

Worlds most fuel-efficient car!

Go To Page 27

27DESERT LOCAL NEWS GREEN PAGES© June 27, 2009 DESERT LOCAL NEWS GREEN PAGES© June 27, 2009

Worlds most fuel-efficient car!

engine employs advanced high-pressure unit injection technology to generate 6.3 kW (8.5 bhp) at 4,000 rpm. This gives the vehicle, which weights just 290 kg, an astonishingly lively temperament.

Fuel consumption is a mere 0.99 litre per 100 kilometres. With a 6.5-litre tank, this gives a range of some 650 kilometres without refuelling.

Due to the restriction of space, it was not possible to adapt an existing gearbox. For this reason, a compact, automated 6-speed gearbox is employed, which is controlled from a turn switch in the cockpit.

Running gear made of lightweight alloy, tyres that offer optimised rolling resistance and 16-inch wheels made of extremely lightweight composite material perfectly complement the economical drive system.

The interior is sportingly simple in design, yet offers enough space for two people, who can comfortably get in after folding back the turret-like gullwing door. An extremely lightweight construction has also been employed for the seats. The seat frames are made of magnesium, and firm, yet comfortable fabric covers are used instead of a classic upholstery.

Despite the lightweight construction of all components, safety has been a major element in all phases of the development of the 1-litre car. For example, the concept vehicle’s safety equipment includes anti-lock brakes, ESP electronic stability program and a driver’s airbag. Deformation elements at the front end and the spaceframe

construction provide impact and roll-over protection comparable to that of a GT racing car.

The sports-car-like design demonstrates that Volkswagen’s 1-litre car is not a spartan research vehicle, but a high-tech special vehicle. It starts with the special seating arrangement. The driver and passenger sit centrally as if in a monoposto, but in tandem. The mid-engine is installed transversely in front of the rear axle. With its complex design (double wishbones at front, DeDion suspension at rear) and combined with the low centre of gravity and low overall vehicle weight, the lightweight running gear results in very agile handling.

The project team have impressively succeeded in combining driving pleasure with a level of fuel consumption never seen before.

The 1-litre car also incorporates numerous details of a practical and convenient nature. For example, there is an easily accessible stowage compartment with a capacity of 80 litres under a separate flap in the rear; a reversing camera that helps when manoeuvring; automatic locking/unlocking of the gullwing door and a starter button in the cockpit that together allow keyless operation.

The concept of the 1-litre car - four wheels, low height, with two seats in tandem - gives an idea for a possible new family of vehicles, which could cover new requirements ranging from the ultra-economical vehicle, through the low-lost everyday touring vehicle for young people to the high-performance sports supercar.

Worlds most fuel-efficient car!

Continued from Page 26

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29BUSINESS DIRECTORY & CLASSIFIED

WESTERN HORIZON MEDICAL GROUP

WESTERN HORIZON WESTERN HORIZON WESTERN HORIZON WESTERN HORIZON WESTERN HORIZON WESTERN HORIZON WESTERN HORIZON WESTERN HORIZON WESTERN HORIZON WESTERN HORIZON WESTERN HORIZON WESTERN HORIZON WESTERN HORIZON WESTERN HORIZON WESTERN HORIZON WESTERN HORIZON WESTERN HORIZON WESTERN HORIZON WESTERN HORIZON WESTERN HORIZON WESTERN HORIZON WESTERN HORIZON WESTERN HORIZON WESTERN HORIZON WESTERN HORIZON WESTERN HORIZON MEDICAL GROUPMEDICAL GROUPMEDICAL GROUPMEDICAL GROUPMEDICAL GROUPMEDICAL GROUPMEDICAL GROUPMEDICAL GROUPMEDICAL GROUPMEDICAL GROUPMEDICAL GROUPMEDICAL GROUPMEDICAL GROUPMEDICAL GROUPMEDICAL GROUPMEDICAL GROUPMEDICAL GROUPMEDICAL GROUPMEDICAL GROUPMEDICAL GROUPMEDICAL GROUPMEDICAL GROUPMEDICAL GROUPMEDICAL GROUPMEDICAL GROUPMEDICAL GROUPMEDICAL GROUPMEDICAL GROUP

12560 Palm Drive Desert Hot Springs, CA

PHone: (760)251-3401

Richard Kyaw, M.D.

Http://desertnetwork.com

30 COACHELLA VALLEY • EVENTS • JOBS • DESERT LOCAL NEWS June 27, 2009

Our proud COP officersColletta and Eastman

COMPUTOR ZONE

Our proud COP officersColletta and Eastman

Larry Giron ~ Owner

COMPUTER SALES • PARTS • SERVICEWe fix all Brands Desktops & Laptops

56830 29 Palms Hwy.Yucca Valley, CA. 92284

760-365-ZONE (9663)

SPECIALVIRUS

MALWARE CLEANING

$40

As unemployment rises, many Americans are realizing the importance of having a career that’s fulfilling as well as lucrative. When layoffs are announced, many people feel they have nothing left to lose, and take the opportunity to pursue what they love. This has fueled a growth in the number of people going back to school to become massage therapists -- a career with strong job security and great potential.

Employment for massage therapists is expected to increase up to 20 percent by 2016, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. In mid 2008, according to the American Massage Therapy Association, at least 45 percent of women and 21 percent of men reported having a massage during the past five years. And as economic stress

increases, consumer demand for relaxing and revitalizing services such as massage therapy rises. Eighty-eight percent of adults agree that massage can be effective in reducing pain and 87 percent think that massage is beneficial to health and wellness.

According to the AMTA, the average

massage therapist is most likely to enter the profession as a second career and is in their early 40s, making massage therapy classes and programs a comfortable place for people changing paths mid career.

Courtesy ARA contentFor more information on a career in

massage therapy, visit www.Cortiva.com.

Economy provides inspiration for more

fulfilling careers

VICKI LAWSON’S CRIME REPORT • DESERT LOCAL NEWS • June 27, 2009 31

Cabot’s Trading Post & Gallery and the Desert Hot Springs Visitors’ Center summer hours are seven days a week from 9 a.m. till 1 p.m. Cabot’s

Pueblo Museum will offer one tour daily at 9:30 a.m. Tours cost $8. For more information, please call 760-329-7610

CABAZON, CA- A couple is behind

bars for stealing copper wire in the Cabazon area, located west of Palm Springs and East of Banning.

On Wednesday at approximately 12:58 p.m., deputies from the Cabazon Station responded to a reported theft of copper wire from a construction site. Witnesses provided Sheriff’s Dispatch with a description of the suspect vehicle, seen leaving the area. While en route to the call, responding deputies located a vehicle matching the description provided by witnesses, driving on Main Street, Cabazon, and initiated a traffic stop for further investigation. After detaining the occupants of the vehicle, identified as Juan Perez, 38 years

old of Cabazon, and Valerie Lopez, 24 years old of Cabazon, witnesses positively identified the occupants of the vehicle as the subjects they had seen removing the copper wire. A subsequent search of the suspect’s shared residence, located in the 14000 Block of Broadway Street, resulted in the recovery of approximately 400 feet of stolen copper wire valued at over $800. The recovered wire was returned to the victim.

Mr. Perez and Ms. Lopez were subsequently arrested for felony violations related to Grand Theft, Conspiracy to Commit Grand Theft and Possession of Stolen Property and booked at the Larry D. Smith Correctional Facility in Banning.

Couple Arrested For Copper Wire Theft

BY VICKI LAWSON

THERMAL, CA-The Riverside County Sheriff’s

Department Indio Station was notified by a local hospital that they were treating a 24- year-old female, a victim of a sexual assault which happened at the corner of Highway 86 and Avenue 72 in Thermal.

Investigators from the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department Indio Station immediately began to look into this allegation and conducted a thorough

investigation. On Tuesday, June 16, 2009, the suspect was identified as Luis Edward Hermosillo, age 41, a resident of Indio. Hermosillo was arrested on Friday, June 19, 2009.

The suspect is a US Border Patrol Officer assigned to the Indio sector. He was booked for 209(b)(1) PC-Kidnapping with Intent to Commit Sexual Assault, 289(a)(1) PC-Sexual Penetration, 289(g) PC-Sexual Penetration Under the Color of

Authority. His bail was set at one million dollars and is currently housed in the Indio jail.

The victim’s name is being withheld. Anyone with information about this

incident is encouraged to call Senior Investigator Joe Quintero at the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department at 760-863-8990 or the US Border Patrol Public Affairs Office at 760-335-5792.

Border Patrol Agent Assaults A Woman in Thermal

PALM SPRINGS, CA- Police need the public’s help in identifying bank robbery suspects who robbed a Bank of America earlier this June.

On Friday, June 12th at about 9:56 AM, Palm Springs Police were called to the Bank of America at 5601 East Ramon Road (at the Walmart Center) for a reported robbery.

Surveillance cameras captured the attached photos of the suspect, who was possibly seen leaving in a dark blue Pontiac 2-door vehicle.

If anyone knows the identity of this suspect or can provide information about this crime, please contact Detective Mike Studer at (760) 323-8146 or Crimestoppers at (760) 341-STOP.

Palm Springs Police needs your help!

32 DESERT LOCAL NEWS June 27, 2009

May - September 2009

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