Thursday, December 31, 2015

Desert Trail Column, December 31, 2015

Coming up on Saturday, January 9 will be a WEMO Letter-Writing Drop-In from 9 to noon at our community center, 80526 ½ Amboy Road. If you are concerned about ORV Routes on CSA roads, stop in for help identifying proposed routes near your house, filling out the minimization form and/or writing a letter to the Bureau of Land Management. The deadline for public comment letters is January 25.

Karen’s Commentary: Dar is very sick with acute bronchitis right now, so I am hogging her commentary space along with my own! If you’d like to send Dar a card, send it to 5025 Anza Avenue, Twentynine Palms 92277.

Dar is down!
My commentary is about discovering a fantastic deal for paying a healthcare bill that is over $200. It’s called Care Credit, and it’s a credit card that can be used at participating facilities for dental care, teeth whitening, braces, veterinary care, cosmetic procedures, dermatology, chiropractic care, LASIK surgery, hearing aids, eyeglasses and contacts. The great thing about it is that no interest is charged as long as it is paid in full within a specified amount of time. Depending on the facility and the total amount charged, the time allowed to pay the bill will be anywhere from six to sixty months! And that’s with NO INTEREST! Yes, there is a catch – if you are late on any payment, or fail to pay the bill in full in the specified time, you are then responsible for the high interest on the FULL original amount, not just on the remaining balance. But if you can manage to make the payments on time, this is a really great way to manage a big bill that comes up suddenly. The reason I know this is because recently one of my front teeth broke off at the gum line requiring a root canal and tooth replacement. Four days later, my dog had to have 15 teeth removed! In both cases, Care Credit saved the day. For more information, go to carecredit.com or call 1-866-893-7864. Filling out their application and getting approval by phone took us a total of about five minutes.

Darlene’s Commentary: See above!

The Wonder Valley Thrift Store, located on Godwin Road just north of Highway 62, has many great bargains. It’s open on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 9 to noon. All proceeds go to the building fund for Godwin Christian Fellowship Church. Call Olympia at 831-227-1948.

The new home of the Godwin Christian Fellowship
Handy Hint: To add humidity to a dry house, open the dishwasher door while the dishes are drying.


Thought for Today: A modern curse might be “May your avocados never ripen.”

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

Wednesday, December 30, 2015

Draft Ordinance for Vacation Rentals

The County of San Bernardino has drafted County Ordinance 72715 which will, if adopted, greatly impact owners and operators of vacation rental property. The ordinance calls for county inspections and a cessation of operation until inspections are complete. It would ban weddings, receptions, conferences, and other meetings. There are other items that may concern VR owners, including punitve measures for violations.

See the draft ordinance here:
bit.ly/mbvacationrentals

The Joshua Tree Chamber of Commerce is working with local VR owners and operators on this issue and urges owner/operators to write to Phil Paule, who works for Third District Supervisor James Ramos, at: Philip.Paule@bos.sbcounty.gov.

See the Joshua Tree Chamber of Commerce page here:
bit.ly/mbvacationrentals

As the MAC (Municipal Advisory Council) Delegate for Wonder Valley, I urge vacation rental owners and operators to:

I recognize that Vacation Rentals are an important part of the Wonder Valley economy, providing jobs, improving neighborhoods, providing shelter for our guests (as we have no hotels), and improving the profile of our area.

Once this ordinance is approved, with inspectors and administrators hired, procedures put in place, taxes collected, it will be very difficult to dial it back. NOW is the time to let the County know how you feel about this ordinance.

The County is organized, and so they can draft and approve an ordinance such as this. If the VR owners/operators want to have a voice YOU will need to get organized, go to a few meetings, provide me with a statement that I can deliver to the MAC, meet with your repesentatives, and make sure your voice is heard.

I am your MAC delegate. I represent YOU. If you want my help, let me know. I can help arrange a meeting for you, draft a response, send a letter to the MAC, request a meeting with representatives, and stand up for Wonder Valley.

A couple of months ago I requested a meeting with the County for Wonder Valley VR owners and was required to provide a list of VR owners and the amount of Transient Occupancy Tax that they had paid. I thought this was an unfair requirement, and still do, but relayed the information to the Wonder Valley Community. I regret doing this. There should be no requirements for meeting with our elected representatives, especially not lists of names and amounts of taxes paid. I wish I had followed my initial instincts and refused when I was sent the requirement. And just to be super clear, I never had a list, never created a list, never researched a list, and most certainly never gave anyone a list. I would never do that. Ever.

I am telling you this because I am on your side. I was appointed to this volunteer position to represent YOU, not the County. I want to see Wonder Valley thrive. I want our relationship to our County government to be a partnership that supports our efforts to make Wonder Valley a vibrant community.

That said, I hope you will organize and take some action to represent your industry to the County government. I am available to assist you.

Sincerely,

Teresa Sitz

Monday, December 28, 2015

Glass Outhouse Gallery Opening, January 2, 1-5 p.m.


The Glass Outhouse Art Gallery opening on January 2nd features Snake Jaggers and Anne Elasser. Guitarist Mike Shaw will perform at the reception. 

The Glass Outhouse Gallery, 77575 Twentynine Palms Highway at Thunder Road, Wonder Valley, CA 92277.

A painting by Snake Jaggers

Thursday, December 24, 2015

Desert Trail Column, December 24, 2015

A Recognition Service followed by a potluck will be held at Godwin Christian Fellowship Home Group, 7446 Bonny Dunes, on Sunday, December 27 from 10 to noon. There will be special music, a great message and awards given out to all who have helped further the work of Godwin Christian Fellowship in Wonder Valley.

We send out Rainbows-of-Turquoise-and-Narcissus to Laurel Seidl and Glenda Berndt who celebrate their special days this week. Happy birthday to you both!




We also send out best wishes to Les and Mary Lindsley who celebrate 34 years together this week. Happy anniversary!



Darlene’s Commentary: How cold has it been in your neighborhood lately? I can actually say . . . it is FREEZING here in good old Wonder Valley. Say – what’s happened to global warming? Do we need to be frozen before we can thaw out? I haven’t heard from the Bunwarmers, and imagine that their truck is still in the shop. (The Bunwarmers are the vendors of firewood for HEAP.) Maybe I’ll get a heat pump from Santa. Anyhow, I’m kidding, but I want to wish all of Wonder Valley and the rest of the planet a peaceful, warm and loving Christmas!

Karen’s Commentary: I recently received an email from an old friend regarding the proposed fire tax, and I’d like to share some of his thoughts with you:  
“. . . I believe that everyone deserves to make a living wage, but I don’t believe that we should support a class of people – government workers – who live like elites while the rest of us starve . . . Their salaries come out of our pockets and our pockets are not exactly overflowing. They are not taking away our European vacations, they are taking food off of our plates . . . I hope I’m not sounding too forceful, but I think the salaries and retirement packages are outrageous . . . The union firefighters make Wonder Valley a ward of the county . . . The volunteer firefighters – that was more than a public service – it was who we were.”
We thank Tim Candelaria for doing a great job maintaining our roads. If you have a question, comment, compliment or issue with our road maintenance, leave a message for Tim at 760-367-9880.


Thanks, Tim!
Handy Hint: Stale bread makes divine French toast. Soak slices in a mixture of eggs and milk (with a dash of nutmeg if desired), then toast with a bit of butter in a large nonstick skillet.

Thought for Today: The best and most honest yard sale sign ever reads “Our Crap Could Be Your Crap.”

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

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Wonder Valley Community Clean Up

Wonder Valley Community Clean Up
https://www.facebook.com/events/1684405115138045/



Saturday, February 20, 2016, 8 AM - 12 PM
Wonder Valley Community Center
80526 1/2 Amboy Road, Wonder Valley, CA 92277

The County is sponsoring a Community Clean Up. There will be a tire truck, dumpsters, and an e-waste disposal.

Here are the rules:

1. The program is limited to residents of the unincorporated County area of Wonder Valley.

2. We cannot accept commercial or industrial waste from a business.

3. Oversized or hard to handle loads may be diverted directly to the landfill at owner’s expense.

4. Loads of more than 9 tires will not be accepted.

5. Tire loads of 9 tires or less must be removed from the rim and not exceed the max size of 11”x25.5” (no semi, tractor  or oversized tires will be accepted).

6. Hazardous waste will not be accepted.

We'll be posting more information, so please come back again closer to the date.

HOSTED BY:
Teresa Sitz
MAC Delegate
Wonder Valley, CA
CONTACT: teresa.sitz@gmail.com

WEMO Letter-Writing Drop-In (CMM)


WEMO Letter-Writing Drop-In (Copper Mountain Mesa)
https://www.facebook.com/events/220998744898490/

Saturday, January 16, 2016, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Copper Mountain Mesa Community Center
65336 Winters Road, North Joshua Tree, CA 92252

Are you concerned about ORV Routes on CSA roads in your neighborhood?
Come to a WEMO Route Letter-Writing Drop-In

The BLM (Bureau of Land Managment) is evaluating where and whether to put ORV (off-road vehicle) routes in residential neighborhoods adacent to private property. Drop in and we'll help you:

  • identify proposed routes near your house on the maps
  • fill out the minimization form
  • and write your letter to the BLM. 

There is an earlier letter writing event at the Wonder Valley Community Center from 9 a.m. to noon, on January 9, 2016.
https://www.facebook.com/events/900962863350342/

The BLM's DEADLINE for public comment is: January 25, 2016

R E S O U R C E S

BLM WEMO Link
http://bit.ly/blmwemo

COW (Community ORV Watch) Links
http://bit.ly/cowwemo

M A P S
http://bit.ly/wemomaps
You are most likely in TMA 3 (Travel Management Area 3). Open these from the file and you will be able to open and apply various layers.

O R I E N T A T I O N
WEMO Route Form Orientation - To get you started
http://bit.ly/wemoorientation

F O R M
WEMO Route Form - Use to actually document routes of concern
http://bit.ly/wemoform

BLM Tips and Tricks Document
Helpful in using the route designation map
http://bit.ly/wemotips

HOSTED BY:
Teresa Sitz
MAC Delegate
Wonder Valley, CA
CONTACT: teresa.sitz@gmail.com

WEMO Letter-Writing Drop-In (WV)


WEMO Letter-Writing Drop-In (Wonder Valley)
https://www.facebook.com/events/900962863350342/
Saturday, January 9, 2016, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Wonder Valley Community Center
80526 Amboy Road, Wonder Valley, CA 92277

Are you concerned about ORV Routes on CSA roads in your neighborhood?
Come to a WEMO Route Letter-Writing Drop-In

The BLM (Bureau of Land Managment) is evaluating where and whether to put ORV (off-road vehicle) routes in residential neighborhoods adacent to private property. Drop in and we'll help you:

  • identify proposed routes near your house on the maps
  • fill out the minimization form
  • and write your letter to the BLM.

There will be a second letter writing event at the Copper Mountain Mesa Community Center from 9 a.m. to noon, on January 16, 2016.
https://www.facebook.com/events/220998744898490/

The BLM's DEADLINE for public comment is: January 25, 2016

R E S O U R C E S

BLM WEMO
http://bit.ly/blmwemo

L I N K S
COW (Community ORV Watch)
http://bit.ly/cowwemo

M A P S
http://bit.ly/wemomaps
You are most likely in TMA 3 (Travel Management Area 3). Open these from the file and you will be able to open and apply various layers.

O R I E N T A T I O N
WEMO Route Form Orientation To get you started
http://bit.ly/wemoorientation

F O R M
WEMO Route Form - Use to actually document routes of concern
http://bit.ly/wemoform

BLM Tips and Tricks Document
Helpful in using the route designation map
http://bit.ly/wemotips


HOSTED BY:
Teresa Sitz
MAC Delegate
Wonder Valley, CA
CONTACT: teresa.sitz@gmail.com

Friday, December 18, 2015

The Many Moods of Ben Vaughn


SEASON’S GREETINGS FROM THE RELAY SHACK!
This week's Many Moods of Ben Vaughn will feature a fine selection of holiday tunes performed by a variety of recording artists. Expect a few surprises! Full playlist to follow.

BROADCAST SCHEDULE:
KCDZ, Joshua Tree, CA (Sundays at 3:00 pm PST)

AVAILABLE AS PODCAST: 
Now available on iTunes thanks to KCDZ in Joshua Tree, CA.

Thursday, December 17, 2015

Desert Trail Column, December 17, 2015

There were about 45 people in attendance at the Fire Tax meeting on Saturday, December 12, including at least two board members of the Morongo Valley CSD. Morongo Valley is facing the same problems we are, and are also looking for answers. After all the presentations, comments and questions, we are basically left with four options:  Keep our current staffing by paying $311 more per parcel per year, attempt to use Paid Call Firefighters who must live within 20 minutes of our fire station, rely on the 29 Palms fire station and reimburse them on a per-call basis or rely on “as available” responses which may result in a delay in services. With any of the above options, Morongo Basin Ambulance will continue to respond to all medical aids, including traffic collisions. And, contrary to comments you may have heard, very rarely would MBA need to respond from farther away than Twentynine Palms.

The free USDA Food Distribution will take place on Monday, December 21 at our community center from 11 to noon. The wonderful He Provides Ministry will also be there with free clothing and household items for anyone needing them.

We send out Rainbows-of-Turquoise-and-Narcissus to Teresa Sitz who celebrates her special day this week. Happy birthday, Teresa!

Karen’s Commentary: The circus is back! The circus is back! They’re returning to their winter quarters on Godwin Road. It’s neat to see the big cheery red and white trucks arriving again. Also, here’s a little tidbit for you:  If you try to remove a shopping cart from Family Dollar’s premises, the wheels lock up. Seriously! So why aren’t ALL shopping carts fitted with these devices?


Darlene’s Commentary: Wow! Half of December has vanished right before my very eyes! I’m knee-deep in wrapping paper, lists, three calendars, a pocket planner, holiday postage stamps and Christmas cards that really might even make it to the mailbox this year. Whew! Most of you know that I wasn’t born organized (no laughing please!) – 2016 just might be “THE YEAR of ORGANIZATIO!” You never know!

Reach Out Morongo Basin will pick up anyone interested in going to lunch at the 29 Palms Nutrition Site on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Just be at The Palms at 10 am, and they will drop you back off at The Palms at 2 pm. If you have a problem getting to The Palms, they will even pick you up and drop you off at your residence. Call 760-361-1410.


Handy Hint: To get the best price when bargaining with a salesperson, first be willing to walk away.

Thought for Today: Michelangelo was a chiseler.

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

BLM WEMO Meeting Notes

Download the Meeting Notes for the December 14 meeting with BLM WEMO project managers Edythe Seehafer and Katrina Simons.

It's nice to see the parking lot full at the Wonder Valley Community Center.
Community members of Wonder Valley listen to Katrina Simons from the BLM speak on the WEMO issue.

2nd Fire Tax Meeting Notes Transcribed

Download the December 12 meeting notes from the Second Fire Tax Meeting here:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/etmoxme3tgn0goc/12122015_special_meeting_notes.pdf?dl=0

Download the Power Point presentation here:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/75d0e0g4n3hkio9/Wonder%20Valley%20Presentation.pptx?dl=0

Tom Marshall presents to the Wonder Valley Community

Questions asked of County Fire and Special Districts

To properly evaluate the four options presented to us by County Fire we will need to know the answers to the following questions. A group of Wonder Valley Community members got together to formulate these and presented them to Division Chief John Chamberlin of County Fire, and Special Districts.

Many of these questions were sent to us from members of the Wonder Valley Community.

County Fire's PowerPoint Presentation with the 4 options - slides 21-23
bit.ly/firetaxppt

Wonder Valley
Citizen’s Fire Services Committee
Questions Submitted to County Fire

ISO Ratings

  1. What is the ISO rating for Wonder Valley under the current fire service provided by San Bernardino County Fire?
  2. What would be the ISO rating for Wonder Valley with the proposed 2 fire personnel staffing at a cost of $1,607,058.00 or $347.00 per parcel per year?
  3. What would be the ISO rating for Wonder Valley with the proposed 3 fire personnel staffing at a cost of $2,265,881.00 or $489.00 per parcel per year?

Call Volume

  1. What is the average call volume per year based on the last five years for the Wonder Valley Fire Station?  Please itemize the average call volume for the following within Wonder Valley:
    a. How many calls were for emergency medical services (EMS)?
    i. How many calls required advance life support services?
    ii. How many calls were actual calls that resulted in basic life support services (BLS)?
    iii. How many calls for emergency medical services were either canceled or required no medical aid from arriving fire and EMS personnel?
    iv. How many of these calls were outside the Wonder Valley area?
    v. How many patients who called for EMS died in the prehospital setting because a BLS engine arrived first on scene and began BLS services while ALS units were responding from 29 Palms?
    b. How many calls were for fire suppression services?
    i. How many of these calls required automatic and/or mutual aid from other fire agencies?
    ii. How many of these calls were either canceled in route or required no fire suppression services once fire personnel arrived on-scene?
    iii. How many of these calls were outside the Wonder Valley area?
    c. How many calls were for technical rescues?
    i. How many of these calls required automatic and/or mutual aid from other fire agencies?
    ii. How many of these calls were for auto extrication?
    iii. How many of these calls were for swift water rescue?
    iv. How many of these calls were for mine shaft or confined space rescues?
    v. How many of these calls were either canceled in route or required no fire suppression services once fire personnel arrived on-scene?
    vi. How many of these calls were outside the Wonder Valley area?
    d. How many of these calls were for hazardous materials events?
    i. How many of these calls required automatic and/or mutual aid from other fire agencies?
    ii. How many of these calls required a hazardous materials response at the technician level or higher?
    iii. How many of these calls were either canceled in route or required no fire suppression services once fire personnel arrived on-scene?
    iv. How many of these calls were outside the Wonder Valley area?
    e. How many of these calls involved an off-road vehicle accident?
    i. How many of these calls required automatic and/or mutual aid from other fire agencies?
    ii. How many of these calls were either canceled in route or required no fire suppression services once fire personnel arrived on-scene?
    iii. How many of these calls were outside the Wonder Valley area?
    iv. How many of these calls required either BLS or ALS services?

Staffing

  1. What are the minimum requirements for our local citizens to become paid-call firefighters
  2. Where would the paid-call firefighters receive their initial training and their in-service training to qualify and remain proficient with the skill set required of a paid-call firefighter?
  3. How does the compensation work for paid-call firefighters?
  4. Will all paid-call firefighters receive the training and be qualified to drive and operate all fire apparatus assigned to station 45?
  5. Who will provide the management of station 45 if it becomes a paid-call fire station?
  6. Can County Fire provide the citizens of Wonder Valley with a staffing organizational chart for a paid-call fire station?
  7. Can the paid-call firefighters assigned to station 45 be trained to the Emergency Medical Responder Level since MBA Ambulance currently provides both Advance Life Support Services and transport?
  8. What alternative staffing plans does the county propose for fire protection since full-time staffing levels are cost prohibitive? 
  9. Does the county honestly feel the call volume from station 45 justifies full time fire personnel assigned to Wonder valley?

Fire Apparatus and Equipment

  1. What equipment and fire apparatus is currently assigned to station 45?
  2. How many fire personnel assigned to station 45 under the current fire service plan are qualified to drive and operate all of the fire apparatus assigned to Wonder Valley?
  3. If station 45 becomes a paid-call fire station will the county provide the Wonder Valley Station with modern fire apparatus that meets current NFPA and OSHA standards?
  4. Who currently owns the fire apparatus assigned to station 45?
  5. Can we get a complete inventory of all equipment and fire apparatus assigned to station 45?

Budget

  1. Will the county provide a line item breakdown for the current operating expenses for station 45?
  2. Will the county provide a proposed budget to include income and expenses for station 45 to be operated as a paid-call fire station?
  3. What kind of accountability can the citizens of Wonder Valley expect in the future, in terms of an annual budget, financial statements, and a quarterly meeting with all stakeholders to ensure the taxes collected for fire services remains on the books for Wonder Valley?
  4. Can the county operate a paid-call fire station without raising the current tax rate for fire services in Wonder Valley?

Taxes

  1. Is the proposed tax increase for full time fire personnel as outlined in your presentation in addition to the current $34.00 tax and the ad valorem tax?
  2. How will this tax increase in future years; through cost of living increases, through inflation, or any other type of formula used to justify tax increases?
  3. How did a 1000% tax increase sneak up on the citizens of Wonder Valley?  Who is being held accountable for these increases that seem like an unjust tax rate for the Wonder Valley Area compared to other areas within San Bernardino County?
  4. Is the county imposing this tax on other areas?  Can the county prove that the taxes are being applied equitably?
  5. Can the county provide the citizens of Wonder Valley a chart or graph of the amounts of ad valorem tax allocated to County Fire from Wonder Valley since July 2008?
  6. Why did Wonder Valley have to become a separate fire protection zone? Why does any area have to become a fire protection zone?
  7. There is a perception that County Fire is only interested in being the sole provider for fire and emergency medical services for the entire county.  It appears the only organizations that will benefit from this will be the county, County Fire, and the fire union.  Who is looking out for the best interest of Wonder Valley?
  8. What will happen to the citizen that can’t afford to pay the proposed tax increase?  Will the county place a tax lien on the property and sell it out from underneath the property owners of Wonder Valley?
  9. Are the citizens of Wonder Valley being taxed for fire services outside the Wonder Valley area, for example, when station 45 is dispatched to a call in Amboy, or I-40, or Essex?  If not, then who is providing the funding for responses outside the Wonder Valley area?

Special Districts/LAFCO (Local Agency Formation Commission)/County

  1. Could the county transfer the tax dollars collected from Wonder Valley to a private company to provide fire and emergency services to the Wonder Valley area?
  2. What are the Wonder Valley boundaries defined by the fire protection zone 4?
  3. If the fire protection zone 4 is dissolved, then what defines the boundaries of Wonder Valley?
  4. If station 45 becomes a paid-call fire station, how large of a response area will station 45 be responsible to provide coverage for?

Fire & Emergency Medical Services Response

  1. There are too many instances when the fire personnel assigned to station 45 have been observed driving the fire apparatus outside of the Wonder Valley area such as within the City of Twentynine Palms and on Hwy. 62 traveling W/B towards Yucca Valley.  Who is covering the fire and emergency response needs for Wonder Valley while the fire apparatus is allowed to leave their primary response area?  This has become a daily occurrence.  Why does County Fire allow this to occur on a daily basis when the Wonder Valley citizens are being taxed for fire and emergency response services 24/7?
  2. Under the current service /staffing plan what is the typical response to a single family dwelling structure fire in the Wonder Valley Area?
  3. Under the current service /staffing plan what is the typical response to a vehicle accident that requires extrication in the Wonder Valley Area?
  4. How would the various responses for fire and emergency services differ from the current level of service as compared to station 45 becoming a paid-call fire station?
  5. Which agencies currently provide automatic and mutual aid for fire and emergency services to the Wonder Valley area?
  6. What is the current response area for station 45?
  7. Many times station 45 fire personnel have been called out of Wonder Valley to provide mutual aid to the City of Twentynine Palms and surrounding county areas which left Wonder Valley with no fire and emergency medical services coverage.  What are the current plans to back fill station 45 when fire personnel and apparatus are out of their assigned response area?
  8. Most vehicle fires and auto accidents are caused by travelers who do not live in the Wonder Valley area but require emergency responses from station 45 which is funded by the citizens of Wonder Valley.  Does County Fire have a cost recovery program to off-set the cost of providing services to travelers/tourist who live outside the Wonder Valley area?  If there is no cost recovery program, then can we initiate such a program to help pay for fire and emergency response services.

Special Districts
The questions above under Special Districts/LAFCO were taken from these.

  1. Who owns the Wonder Valley fire station property?
  2. Who owns the Wonder Valley fire station building & living quarters?
  3. Who owns the Wonder Valley community center property & building?
  4. Who owns our fire equipment?
  5. If our fire station is closed, could another entity use or lease the building?
  6. Could we transfer our tax dollars to a private or non-profit entity to provide us with fire or emergency services?
  7. Who owns the other fire station in Wonder Valley? Can the community, or another entity, use or lease the building?
  8. If the proposed fire tax is approved, what will happen to a person who cannot afford the tax? Will the county take their home and land?
  9. Are the boundaries of Wonder Valley defined by FP 4? Whether or not the proposed tax is approved, will FP 4 remain, or be dissolved? If FP 4 is dissolved, what will define the boundaries of Wonder Valley?
  10. If FP 4 is dissolved, will the FP 4 assessment be discontinued? If FP 4 is not dissolved, do we still have a right to the agreed upon service? What will the FP 4 assessment provide us?
  11. May we have a complete inventory of all of the equipment in the WV fire station? What will happen to this equipment if the proposal is approved, and if the proposal is not approved?
  12. Does Wonder Valley have the right to form its own fire / emergency service? If so, what is the procedure to do so? If not, why not?

John Isaac Watters

The musician John Isaac Watters was born in Mexico City, and grew up there and in Tucson, AZ. He writes desert songs. He's played at the Palms, so it's fitting that his friends/fans chose the Palms as the backdrop for a music video. A bunch of us locals, Sunny, Duane and me from Wonder Valley, others from Twentynine Palms and Yucca Valley, showed up to play extras. It was a long day, and there was a smoke machine, which was really hard on me. But in general it was fun. The music was good, and I feel a little more embedded here, having now taken part in a Wonder Valley music video.

The producers of the video, choreographer Hemma, and Anthony Nikolchev, sit center front.

Here's a song about the desert that I like better than the other music video. I liked Watters music. It was tight, a little jangley, and soulful.

Monday, December 14, 2015

Quick note on the Fire Tax

I'll post the meeting notes from Saturday's Fire Tax meeing sometime this week, but it looks like the proposed fire tax is off the table. County Fire understands that option is not feasible.

We'll have to work together as a community to put together something that works for us, and it means we'll ALL have to chip in and contribute to the effort. We've sent 5 pages of questions to Division Chief John Chamberlin that will give us the information we need to evaluate the remaining options left to us. We're waiting on those answers. When we get them we'll review them and put together proposals that the community can review and build on. The important thing is that we'll be better informed about what is possible.

In the meantime, there will be a Monthly Monday Meeting the 4th Monday of January. (We usually have them the 2nd Monday, but that's a federal holiday so the USDA Food Distribution is moved to 3rd Monday - so neither of those Mondays are available to us. The same thing happens in February.) The community voted at today's meeting to have the January meeting on January 25th and I'm inviting Ramon Lomeli, General Mananger of Morongo Basin Ambulance, and Jim Brakebill from the Copper Mountain College Fire Technology Program, to talk to us about ambulance and paramedic service.

We have time to make an informed decision. I'll get the notes posted this week. We're a strong community. We'll put our heads together and create something that will work for us.

In the meantime, have a lovely holiday and stay safe.

Teresa Sitz
MAC Delegate
Wonder Valley, CA

Friday, December 11, 2015

Man Attacked, Seriously Injured In Wonder Valley Dog Attack

 By Z107.7 News, on December 11th, 2015

A man was seriously injured when a pack of dogs attacked him in Wonder Valley Wednesday evening. According to a Sheriff’s report, the man was walking near Barbara Lane and Valle Vista Road about 7 p.m. when three to five dogs attacked and mauled him. The man suffered severe injuries from the attack, including multiple bites on his legs. He was taken to Desert Hospital in Palm Springs because of the severity of his injuries. Sheriff’s deputies were unable to locate the dogs.

Walking in the desert can be a relaxing way to exercise but encountering aggressive dogs can be terrifying and dangerous. Managing editor Tami Roleff offers these tips about how to protect yourself if you are threatened by loose dogs…

Dog attacks can be vicious and bloody. Reduce your risk of attack by being prepared. If you can, avoid walking in areas where loose dogs roam. Dogs in packs are especially dangerous. If a dog threatens you, don’t turn your back on it or run away, as dogs can easily outrun you. Don’t make direct eye contact. In a firm, loud, and deep voice, tell the dog to SIT, STOP, or GO HOME. Carry protection with you on walks, like a golf club, walking stick, stun baton, or pepper spray. If a dog charges you, use anything handy—like the club or stick, or a purse, or backpack, as a barrier between you and the dog. If you are attacked, shove the club or stick or your arm—wrapped with a jacket—down the dog’s throat and push hard. Wait to spray the dog with pepper spray until you can spray it directly in the eyes.

http://www.z1077fm.com/man-attacked-seriously-injured-in-wonder-valley-dog-attack/

Thursday, December 10, 2015

Desert Trail Column, December 10, 2015


A community meeting to discuss the proposed fire tax increase will be held at 10 am on Saturday, December 12 at the Wonder Valley Community Center, 80526 ½ Amboy Road. Division Chief John Chamberlin will be there to present the facts and answer questions submitted by the public. Contact our Basinwide Municipal Advisory Council representative Teresa Sitz at 760-865-9550 or teresa.stewart@gmail.com for  information.


If you’ve always wondered what an old item you own is worth, here’s your chance to find out. Treasures of the Old West Appraisal Event will take place at the 29 Palms Community Center, 74325 Joe Davis Drive near Luckie Avenue, on Saturday, December 12 from 10 to 2, and on Sunday, December 13 from noon to 4. Richard and Brian Manifor will appraise up to three items per person per day at a cost of five dollars per appraisal, with all proceeds going to Sky’s the Limit. They specialize in American Indian art; antique firearms, edged weapons, military items, Western items, advertising and toys; Gold Rush and mining equipment; gas, oil, automotive and Victorian Era items; Americana; and photographic images. Call Jerri Hagman at 760-361-0982 for further information.

The use and misuse of off-road vehicles will be the main topic at the monthly community meeting held on Monday, December 14 at our community center from 9 to 11 am. WEMO Project Manager Edythe M Seehafer will be there to present facts and answer questions. Contact Teresa Sitz for further information.
[Teresa: Actually the topic is the federal government's BLM WEMO plan to put OHV routes in residential neighborhoods adjacent to private property.]

We send out Rainbows-of-Turquoise-and-Narcissus to Elsilynn Davies-Foster, Diana Akins, Wyona Hipple-Sandoe and Ken Sitz, all celebrating their special days this week. Happy birthday to all!

Good wishes are also sent to Ted and Karen Meyers who celebrate 55 years together this week. Happy anniversary!

Wish I knew what comes next...!
And get well wishes for a speedy recovery, along with prayers and healing thoughts, are being sent out to our fellow columnist Mary Reeves. While Mary is on the mend, it was sure nice to hear from Betty Salvini. We so enjoyed her Desert Heights critter update!

The Wonder Valley Community Church, located at 82575 Amboy Road at Kuhns Road, holds Sunday services each week, plus Bible Studies on Sundays and Wednesdays. They also have a potluck following the regular service on the second Sunday of each month. Call Pastor Garry Brooks at 760-367-0279 for further information.

Handy Hint: If your shirt cuffs are fraying, bind them with bias or seam binding tape. If you use a contrasting color and bind the collar, too, it will look like a completely different shirt.

Thought for Today: All too often, opportunity presents itself disguised as hard work.

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

Wonder Valley, CA. Photo credit: TSS

Tuesday, December 8, 2015

WV Citizens Fire Committee Notes

The Citizen's Fire Committee met on November 22, 2015. A follow up meeting will be scheduled once answers to questions delivered to Fire Chief John Chamberlin and San Bernardino County Special Districts are answered.

CITIZENS FIRE COMMITTEE MEETING
Sunday, November 22, 2015, 2:00 p.m.
Wonder Valley Community Center
80526 ½ Amboy Road, Wonder Valley, CA 92277
Wonder Valley MAC Delegate and Meeting Chair: Teresa Sitz

N O T E S 

  1. Call to Order: Teresa Sitz called the meeting to order on Sunday November 22, 2015 at 2:00 pm.
    Attendance: Jim Brakebill, Master Fire Instructor, Copper Mountain College
    Jim Copeland, Former Assistant Fire Chief, Wonder Valley
    Ramon Lomeli, General Manager, Morongo Basin Ambulance
    Karen Meyers, Columnist, Desert Trail, former MBA employee
    Bob Tellefson, Wonder Valley Resident
    Ed Vallerand, Wonder Valley Resident
    Teresa Sitz, MAC Delegate and Meeting Chair
  2. Old Business:  None
  3. New Business:
    A. All committee members present agreed both proposals presented by County Fire for (both 2-0 and 3-0 staffing) full-time fire personnel to be assigned to the Wonder Valley fire station would be cost prohibitive for the residents of Wonder Valley.
    B. Jim Brakebill suggested to the committee the need to look at the call volume for the Wonder Valley station to determine if full-time personnel were justified or if paid-call firefighters or some other alternative would be more affordable.  Committee agreed.
    C. The committee listed the following alternatives to the County Fire proposal presented by Chief John Chamberlain:
    1. No fire services
    2. Contract fire services
    3. Volunteer fire services
    4. Paid-call firefighters
    5. Solicit bid from Cal Fire
    6. Assign a full-time ambulance crew from Morongo Basin Ambulance in station 45.
    7. Become a Community Service District (CSD) similar to Morongo Valley
    D. Jim Copeland expressed a concern that Wonder Valley residents are paying the cost for fire services outside the boundaries of Wonder Valley.  This merits further discussion with County Fire.
    E. Ed Vallerand explained to the committee how the Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) process works.
    F. Teresa Sitz recommended the committee draft questions regarding fire services and present the questions to Chief Chamberlain for a response.  Jim Brakebill recommended to the committee that the questions be submitted to Chief Chamberlain in advance to allow for ample time to prepare a response to the questions.  Committee members agreed.  Questions attached to the minutes.
    G. The committee drafted questions to be sent to J. Rigney of Special Districts regarding the ownership of the property and building that occupies station 45.  Questions attached to the minutes.
    H. Jim Copeland and Ed Vallerand discussed arranging a meeting with the Office of Special Districts to determine the requirements of forming a Wonder Valley CSD.
  4. Dedicating the firehouse to Jack McConaha was tabled until next meeting.
  5. Next Meeting Date:  Next meeting date will be announced after County Fire and Special Districts have responded to our written questions and request for information.
  6. Meeting Adjourned.


2nd Wonder Valley Fire Tax Meeting

Photo credit: Charlotte Williams, circa 1970

This meeting is for all those who work during the week, the weekenders, and the snowbirds who missed the first meeting, and for those of you who have more questions.

Fire Chief John Chamberlain, District 5, South Desert
will present to the community in Wonder Valley

Saturday, December 12, 2015 at 10:00 a.m., at the
Wonder Valley Community Center
80526 Amboy Road, Wonder Valley CA 92277
Everyone is invited and welcome to attend and participate. 

A new fire tax of $302 or $453 per property per year is being proposed. You may watch the video of F.C. Chamberlain’s first presentation on YouTube at:
http://bit.ly/wvfiretaxmeeting/

The PowerPoint of the presentation is also online at:
http://bit.ly/firetaxppt

UPDATE:
Proposed Fire Tax Budgets Released

Fire Chief John Chamberlin sent me the proposed Fire Tax Budgets for Wonder Valley, posted online at the links below.

SUMMARIES
2-Person Station
http://bit.ly/wvfiretax2
     Salaries Total $1,226,905
     Station Expenses Total $380,153
     Total $1,607,058
     [ Divided by 4,636 parcels = $347 per parcel ]

3-Person Station
http://bit.ly/wvfiretax3
     Salaries Total $1,885,728
     Station Expenses Total $380,153
     Total $2,265,881
     [ Divided by 4,636 parcels = $489 per parcel ]

We will have a sound system at this meeting and the format will be less formal. Please share with your neighbors who might not see this invitation.

This meeting is being hosted by Teresa Sitz, the MAC Rep for Wonder Valley.

Monday, December 7, 2015

Wonder Valley | Monthly Monday Meeting

The rare desert lily, Hesperocallis undulata, at the base of a BLM Open Route sign.
Wonder Valley | Monthly Monday Meeting
Monday, December 14, 9:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Wonder Valley Community Center,
80526 1/2 Amboy Road, Wonder Valley, CA 92277
Everyone is invited and welcome to attend and participate.

A G E N D A

The Community of Wonder Valley will meet Monday, December 14, 2015 at 9:00 a.m. to discuss the BLM's West Mojave (WEMO) Plan and its impact on the community of Wonder Valley.

Katrina Simons, Field Manager, WEMO Plan; and Edythe M Seehafer, WEMO Project Manager, with the Bureau of Land Management in Barstow will present. They will be bringing area maps and soliciting community feedback regarding off-road vehicles in Wonder Valley.

If you want OHV routes removed from BLM land adjoining your property you will want to attend this meeting.

The agenda and MAC report will be posted the second week of December.

If you have any questions regarding this meeting, or have agenda items you'd like to have included, please contact the MAC Delegate, Teresa Sitz at teresa.sitz@gmail.com.

PHOTO: The event photograph shows a portion of the marked Gold Crown OHV route in Wonder Valley and the off-route trails that have been carved out of the open desert alongside it. Rules to stay on marked trails have been disregarded and a car has followed suit, driving into the open desert.
Gold Crown Road Open OHV Route in Wonder Valley, illustrating off-trail damage.
Facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/events/745109455623753/

Thursday, December 3, 2015

Desert Trail Column, December 3, 2015

If you’d like to see the gory details of the proposed budgets for the future operation of our fire station, go to bit.ly/wvfiretax2 or bit.ly/wvfiretax3. Prepare for a jaw-dropping experience.

Since the birthstone for December is the turquoise and the flower is the narcissus, we send out Rainbows-of-Turquoise-and-Narcissus to Cambria Fairweather who celebrates her special day this week. Happy birthday, Cambria!


On a sad note, two brothers, both long-time residents of Wonder Valley, have passed away. Richard Freeman Page, 58, passed away on September 26, 2015 at Reche Theraputic Rehabilitation Center in Colton. Richard served our community as a volunteer firefighter, and ran the road grader when needed.  Donald Wayne Page, Jr, 55, was found deceased on November 17, 2015 in Twentynine Palms. Donny served in the US Air Force, worked at the Wonder Valley Community Center and Park, and did handyman work for many local residents. The brothers were preceded in death by their parents, Donald Sr and Barbara Page, and a brother, James Page. They are survived by sister Dawn (Shawn) Page, nephew Cody Page, Richard’s son Jason of Long Beach and Richard’s daughter Sabrina of Oregon. Richard and Donny will be missed by many.

Karen’s Commentary: Well, the little elves are no longer whispering – not by a longshot! Black Friday is not my thing, and suddenly it’s December. How did that happen so fast? I did get the wish lists updated, but that’s about all I’ve done. Gift cards seem to be the hot item. Now if I could just get that darn printing press going so I could churn out some twenties to pay for those cards!

Darlene’s Commentary: Here’s another idea for inexpensive Christmas gifts. Idea #4: “Gift of Time.” This idea involves little or no money, and is especially good for grandparents and seniors on your gift list. Ideas include washing their car, walking their dog, reading to persons with poor eyesight or anything that’s difficult for them to do. Include in your card or letter what you’re offering to do, when and for how long. An instant personal Christmas gift!

The Food for Life Ministry prepares free delicious hot meals every Saturday at Little Church of the Desert. If you have a problem getting to the church, Reach Out Morongo Basin will deliver the meals to your home free of charge. Call 361-1410 for information.

Handy Hint: Frozen juice concentrates cost half as much as regular juice and are just as nutritious. Look for ones made from 100 per cent juice.

Thought for Today: An ounce of mother is worth a pound of clergy. – Spanish proverb

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

Wonder Valley sunrise, November 29, 2015. Photo: TSS

Wednesday, December 2, 2015

California Department of Insurance will address Wonder Valley Community

Members of the Wonder Valley community have voiced concern about what might happen regarding their insurance if they chose not to approve the proposed fire tax: will their insurance rates rise, what would happen to their mortgages, will they be able to get insurance at all?


Teresa Sitz, the Wonder Valley MAC Delegate invited the California Department of Insurance to come talk to the community and they accepted the invitation. Peter Meza, an Associate Insurance Compliance Officer with the California Department of Insurance, will present to the WV Community on

Saturday, January 30, at 10:00 a.m.
at the Wonder Valley Community Center,
80526 1/2 Amboy Road, in Wonder Valley.

Everyone is invited and welcome to attend and participate. Mr. Meza will bring brochures, a presentation, and will answer all your questions about insurance.

Notes from these meeting are posted here: http://bit.ly/wvinsurancemeeting

Where's Heather?

Wonder Valley's own artist, Heather Johnson, is riding her motorcycle to the other end of the Americas. She's made it as far as La Paz, Bolivia.


From Heather:

From Monday. 11am.
(A post-Thanksgiving novel.)

The shuttered city of Sunday has sprung back to life. Right now, as I sip on this distillado con crema, semi-spiked with some unknown sort of hooch, a group of 10 people fill the Torino Cafe with their voices, clapping, the strumming of a mandolin and guitars. They are smartly dressed in black suits and sing of broken hearts while blending in nicely to the wood paneling, lamp light and collections of English language pulp fiction novels, all dog-eared and spine cracked, that line the shelves of this darkened space that was probably once frequented by Nazi fugitives. No one smokes in here, but the walls are stained from cigarettes past.

When I'm done with my coffee, I'll walk down the hill in search of ladies selling avocados, tomatoes and triangular-shaped bread, ladies with gigantic ruffled skirts and ill-fitting bowler hats who spend so many hours selling their wares on street corners that they often fall asleep, deep lines impressed in their cheeks making them look older than they really are. Police in riot gear sweep around corners on Honda 250cc dirt bikes spray-painted military green. And people clog the narrow, slippery sidewalks, moving like confused bees at a million different paces, bumping into each other, narrowly avoiding annihilation by collectivos all jockeying for street space and customers in the bottom of the canyon that is La Paz.

I've gotten to know the pavement cracks intimately here. They criss cross stone sidewalks so steep they need stairs. If you want you can climb the all the way to the top of the mountain, where the poorest people live. It's cheaper up there because it's a pain in the ass to get to and it's bitter cold (but hell, at least the views are really something).

My hostel is five blocks up from the bottom. One of the only places that can accommodate small motorbikes, to get in you have to hop yours over two steep steps without crashing on the inside door in the process. Horns blare in the background while you maneuver into position on slick cobblestones. Inside, the space opens into a 4-story terrarium with cracked pink walls and rainbow murals of cats, and the ceiling made of corrugated transparent fiberglass fills the place with light (but protects my bike from the rain at the same time). Couches surround tables with ashtrays made from the bottom halves of plastic water bottles, overflowing with butts left by backpackers and motorcyclists. There is a kitchen here with a fridge that doesn't work. Sometimes the smoke gets so thick it makes a translucent cloud, penetrating the frosted windows to my room 3 stories up. The trade off lies in the paintings, drawings, proclamations and testimonials layering my walls in psychedelic colors and shapes, products of years of acid trips shared in this, the hostel's only sunny cuarto.

La Paz has its dark spots. The market merchants don't suffer gringos gladly, charging us twice as much for goods as locals, assuming we're rich and can afford whatever price is asked. Sometimes you see effigies hanging from telephone poles, jeans and hoodie-clad "bodies" stuffed with rags, signs to would-be criminals that offenders will be strung up or burned, and not by the police. Young men who try to make a living shining shoes cover their faces with ski masks to avoid being stigmatized. And far too often women spend their final years sitting on filthy sidewalks, hawking several varieties of dried potato, only to have to climb to their hilltop homes every night with sacks of unsold merchandise on their backs.

But I am comfortable and safe. All it takes is a rare flash of smile, or for some woman to call me "siñorita" (despite my being 46 years old) to turn a day into an amazing one. I must work to earn people's interest or respect here, so when it happens, it rocks my world. The subtlest gestures of kindness are now loaded with meaning. So are hot showers and warm beds. I hope I never again take these things for granted. — in La Paz, Bolivia.

Thursday, November 26, 2015

Desert Trail column, November 26, 2015

Darlene’s Commentary: No matter how much I save during the year for Christmas gifts, I find myself having to stretch my budget so far that you can almost see right through it! Many of us live on fixed incomes (including me) so instead of fretting about lack of money, I have hatched up some great ideas to celebrate the holidays without going bankrupt. WARNING:  Most of these ideas require a compliant and agreeable family with a sense of adventure and the will to stick with the program.

Idea #1: “Treasure Hunt.”
Everyone must shop for gifts at thrift stores and garage sales – no gifts to be purchased at a retail store. This includes the kids, too. And, to be really thrifty, set an amount to spend on the adults, double that amount for the kids.

Idea #2: “Christmas in January.”
No one shops for gifts until December 26. The family must promise to enjoy the holidays, honor the real meaning of the season, but no shopping until December 26. You’ll find that your budget will buy twice as much. Presents are opened on January 25.

Idea #3:  “Drawing Names.”
Slips of paper containing the names of all the family members are put into a container, then each family member draws a name and buys a gift for that person only. Monetary limits can be set.

And, there's always coal.
Karen’s Commentary: My husband Ted and I went to The Palms for dinner last week, and were pleasantly surprised. The inside has been “spiffied” up with new decorative touches and organization, not to mention a cozy heating stove and a lot more light coming in. We met the new (to us) bartender Matt who is a very personable and friendly guy, and Laura served up a delicious meal, as usual! Teresa, our local Basinwide MAC representative, can be found here almost every Sunday from 9 to noon, enjoying breakfast and talking to anyone with concerns or questions about Wonder Valley. Call 760-361-2810 for hours or information.

Palms Restaurant, 83131 Amboy Road, Wonder Valley, CA 92277
The new Godwin Christian Fellowship Church building on Godwin Road is finally going up! After so many delays and setbacks, there is now noticeable progress being made each day. For information about Godwin Christian Fellowship Church or about the Home Group meetings every Sunday, call Pastor Max Rossi at 831-234-6848.

Handy Hint: Before using harsh chemicals to unclog a drain, try dropping three Alka Seltzer tablets down the drain followed by a cup of white vinegar. Wait a few minutes, then run the hot water.

Thought for Today: What do you get when you cross a rabbit with the Internet? A harenet.

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


Bullion Mountain, Wonder Valley, Photo: TSS

Monday, November 23, 2015

The circus is back in town


Ramos Brothers Circus winters in Wonder Valley, usually showing up sometime in November. They park on land behind the new Godwin Fellowship Church, on Godwin, near Highway 62. They are a small animal circus, featuring acts with trained poodles. They also have horses, camels, zebras, and llamas - all rescues. That said, if you'd like to collect horse manure for your garden they have plenty for the taking. Just stop on by and bring a shovel!

Saturday, November 21, 2015

Glass Outhouse Student Art Show December 5


The Glass Outhouse Art Gallery once again hosts the student art exhibits for middle and high school students (including home school students). Art work will be accepted at the gallery from December 1 - 5 from 1-5 p.m., or call 760-367-3807. The opening reception is December 5 from 1 - 5 p.m. and most, if not all, the art is for sale. Miri Hunter will provide live music at the reception.

The Glass Outhouse Gallery is located at 77575 Highway 62, Wonder Valley.

We picked up a couple of nice pieces last year at very reasonable prices. (The show is not as competitive as I've made it out to be - just had too much fun making this graphic.)

Afterwards, toodle over to Copper Mountain College for their $49 Buck Art Sale to fund raise for student scholarships. Every artwork sells for $49 and you won't know which artist created it until after you've paid for it. It's at the Bell Center on the campus - first building on the left. The sale takes place the same day, December 5 starting at 4 p.m. Wonder Valley's own Cathy Allen, an art instructor at CMC, is directing the show.

Thursday, November 19, 2015

Desert Trail Column, November 19, 2015

We send out Rainbows-of-Topaz-and-Chrysanthemums to Sharon Fangmeyer who celebrates her special day this week. Happy birthday, Sharon!


We also send out best wishes to Bill and Sherry Hague who celebrate their anniversary this week. We hope your special day is the greatest!

Karen’s Commentary: I am doomed for an entire year. My husband Ted put together eight entries for the Weed Show and came home with two first places, one second place and one honorable mention! And, to top that off, his picture then appeared on the front page of The Desert Trail! Aside from putting up with his puffed-up chest (and head), I have to endure the I-told-you-so attitude because of my pooh-poohing one of his entries that ended up earning a blue ribbon! Oh, my. Actually, I’m very proud of him. He begins each October sleeping, eating, breathing and living WEED SHOW – and this is one of the years that it paid off.

Darlene’s Commentary: Here come the holidays! Just when you start thinking all will be calm and well-organized this time, WHOOSH! With no warning, your clocks seem to pick up speed, whirring around in a blur. Somewhere along the line there are hasty trips to town, the faint sound of caroling and jingle bells, colorful lights blinking as I whiz by like a honeybee, searching store to store for affordable nectar. Then WHOOSH! Dreams of cash register receipts floating in the air like a winter snowstorm – “expect intermittent wrapping paper and ribbon flurries throughout the day, ending with a nice carpet of presents underneath the trees!” Then WHOOSH! The smells of roasting turkey and pumpkin pie, the sounds of happy children and exhausted adults, and another wonderful Christmas season is over, with the clocks ticking normally once again.

We would like to tell our firefighters at Wonder Valley Fire Station #45 how much we appreciate them being here for us. While we parcel owners are in the midst of trying to figure out how to pay for the future operation of our fire service, it’s easy to forget that these men and women are still here day in and day out, responding to medical aids, traffic collisions and fires. Thank you.


Handy Hint: Drying laundry on a clothesline is good for the environment, much cheaper than running a dryer and easier on the fabrics, making your clothes last longer and look better. As a bonus, sunlight kills many odor-causing bacteria so clothes will smell fabulous without having to buy expensive products that promise “air-dried freshness.”

Thought for Today: There are approximately 1,750 O’s floating around in each 15-ounce can of Spaghetti-Os.

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


Tuesday, November 17, 2015

2nd Round of BLM WEMO Proposals

Poleline Road, Wonder Valley, with illegal incursions into Cleghorn Lake Wilderness Area
PUBLIC MEETING ON THE BLM’S PROPOSAL 
TO DRAMATICALLY INCREASE ORV ROUTES IN OUR COMMUNITIES
Saturday, December 5, 2:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Community United Methodist Church,
6213 East Parkway, Joshua Tree, CA 92252

[My note: Yep, we need to go through this for a 2nd round. Please don't give up now. Everyone is invited and welcome to attend.]

The ALLIANCE FOR RESPONSIBLE RECREATION
will be hosting an informational workshop to discuss the proposal by the federal Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to dramatically increase access for off-road vehicles in our rural communities, allowing ORVs to ride on our public roads, private property and public lands. Law enforcement is unable to deal with existing problems with ORV trespass, and the BLM wants to double the mileage of ORV routes in our communities.

The meeting will feature a detailed explanation of the BLM’s Western Mohave (WEMO) Route Management Plan, maps of the network of proposed ORV routes in the Morongo Basin, and an opportunity for the public submit comments on the plan.

WHEN: Saturday, December 5th, from 2:00 to 5:00 pm
WHERE: Community United Methodist Church, 6213 East Parkway in Joshua Tree (4 blocks north on Park Blvd. from Highway 62.)

For more information, please visit to www.orvwatch.com
Sponsored by The Alliance for Responsible Recreation, Community ORV Watch, Morongo Basin Conservation Association, Friends of Juniper Flats, Western San Bernardino Homeowners Association, Sierra Club (partial list).

REFERENCES:
BLM West Mojave (WEMO) Route Network Project, Pat Flanagan, May 23, 2015, Wonder Valley
http://bit.ly/wemopp

BLM's West Mojave (WEMO) Route Network Project and Plan Amendment 
http://www.blm.gov/ca/st/en/fo/cdd/west_mojave__wemo.html

Photo: Pole Line Road to the north of Shadow Mountain Road in Wonder Valley, one of many ad hoc entrances to the Cleghorn Lakes Wilderness Area. 34.209078, -115.835102
Though the photo is from Wonder Valley, the BLM's WEMO plan will affect everyone in the entire Morongo Basin.

Facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1044105502306736/

Still up at the Glass Outhouse Gallery

If you missed the opening reception on November 7 you still have another week or two to catch the spectacular art at the Glass Outhouse Gallery.


Lorelie and David Greene of Wonder Valley shared their stutter stop photography.


Perry Hoffman, the owner of Tile House in Wonder Valley shared paintings
of the Buddha and a mail art show.


Tom Carvelles of Yucca Valley shared paintings of fantasy landscapes,
many with a desert theme. 

New church is coming right along


The new church near the corner of Godwin Road and Highway 62 is coming right along. The new building will house the Godwin Christian Fellowship and is across the road from the Wonder Valley Thrift Store which partly funds these efforts.

Visit the WV Thrift Store on Facebook at:
https://www.facebook.com/WonderValleyThriftStore/info/