Thursday, August 20, 2015

Desert Trail Column, August 20, 2015

The monthly meeting with our MAC Representative Teresa Sitz went well. Discussions included providing a large dumpster for an area cleanup, a community potluck in October and the possibility of the County offering monetary incentives for tire recycling. Also, the County Code Enforcement Supervisor answered many questions.

We send out Rainbows-of-Peridots-and-Gladioli to Dominick Bruxer and to Ted Meyers who celebrate their special days this week, plus belated wishes to Alexa whose special day was last week. Happy birthday to all of you!

Darlene’s Commentary: I’m back! No, I haven’t been captured by poltergeists, but I did spend some time in la-la land after my hip replacement surgery. I evidently took my time coming out of the anesthesia (not a surprise for anyone who knows me – late to almost everything). Anyway, my dear sister Karen waited as long as she could, then took a very unflattering picture of me snoring so she can show it to everyone! Seriously, my plan was to write a little about my surgery and a lot about how grateful I am for all of the love, support, kindness and help from friends and family. Thank you all, with love.


Karen’s Commentary: Have you noticed all the tire chunks along both sides of Amboy Road? Last week I counted 31 substantial–sized pieces between Utah Trail and the fire station. Maybe it’s because of the increase in large truck traffic when the I-10 was closed? Or maybe just because the County hasn’t cleaned up the shoulders of the road for awhile? I’m not sure. On another note, thanks go to our cousin Annie in Phoenix for sending a large envelope FULL of nicely cut out manufacturers’ coupons to go to the US military bases overseas.

Animal Action League, located on Highway 62 just west of the dinosaurs in Joshua Tree, will spay or neuter your pets at a discounted rate. They also offer microchips and vaccinations at discounted rates for pets in Wonder Valley and the other unincorporated areas. Call 760-366-1100 for information. Be part of the solution!

Handy Hint:  Peel the top and bottom of a tangerine so only a belt of skin remains in the middle. Use your fingers to make a slit in the rind, then open it up and lay it out flat with the fruit still attached. You’ll have a strip of juicy slices ready to pick off the skin.


Thought for Today:  “Because a thing seems difficult for you, do not think it is impossible for anyone to accomplish. But whatever is possible for another, believe that you, too, are capable of it.” 
– Marcus Aurelius

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