Thursday, April 25, 2019

Desert Trail Column - April 25, 2019

Morongo Basin Healthcare District’s Lift Transportation Services provides free, non-emergency transportation to and from medical appointments. For further information, call 760-820-9229 or 760-366-5438.
Wonder Valley’s new Morongo Basin Advisory Council delegate is Steve Reyes, a former police officer with the Los Angeles Police Department. Steve is very conscientious and will do a great job.
Donna and Pappy Parsons celebrate all their years together this week. Happy anniversary, Pappy and Donna!

Karen’s Commentary: According to Susan Doggett, local biologist and licensed wildlife rehabilitator, all wild birds except for English house sparrows and European starlings are protected by state and federal law. The Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1972 prohibits individuals from possessing wild birds (including bird parts, feathers and eggs) without special permits. It is also unlawful to harass or deliberately destroy the nests of protected species. The State of California Department of Fish and Game and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are the law enforcement agencies responsible for enforcing this law. The current fine for intentionally harming or possessing a protected bird is $1000! So think twice before picking up those feathers and/or eggs to show everyone – that may be a costly act.
Darlene’s Commentary: Last Friday I tuned in to a local radio station for the Up Close show with Gary Daigneault. He was talking about people painting and defacing Giant Rock in Landers. It is the world’s largest boulder, and is a desert treasure. Giant Rock is apparently on BLM land, with no patrols or supervision. It should be protected from vandals. I wish someone could purchase the land around Giant Rock and construct a building that would house a souvenir and gift shop plus a meeting room. Sales of postcards, maps, desert books, etc could fund ongoing maintenance for Giant Rock, and a group of volunteers called Giant Rock Rangers could educate visitors about this desert and its wonders. What do you think?
Food for Life Ministries prepares and serves delicious hot meals free of charge every Saturday from 3 to 5 p.m. at Church of the Nazarene, 72603 Juanita Drive in Twentynine Palms. If you are unable to get into town for these meals, Reach Out Morongo Basin may deliver these hot meals to your residence. Call 760-361-1410 for further information.


Handy Hint: Inspect for leaks at windows and doors with a lighted incense stick. Sealing those leaks could cut your heating and cooling bills by one-fifth!
Today’s Thought: “My heroes are Larry Bird, Admiral Byrd, Lady Bird, Sheryl Crow, Chick Corea, the inventor of birdseed, and anyone who reads to you even if she’s tired.” – Big Bird

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