06/ Imperial Valley Alive! / Winter 2018

Winter 2018

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Winter 2018

Publishers' Message It’s official: you are now reading an award-winning magazine.

That’s right, Imperial Valley Alive! won the Public Relations Society of America, San Diego/Imperial County Chapter (PRSA SD/IC) Bernays Award of Merit for Magazines in October.

As publishers we intended to create a quarterly magazine -- really a multi-media platform -- to showcase this unique, creative region that is alive with possibilities. We are especially proud the magazine was recognized for helping to change perceptions about the Valley, which is often overlooked, ignored or maligned by the media outside the region.

Imperial Valley Alive! was the only magazine honored with a Bernays Award this year. As we see it, the award belongs as much to the enthusiastic readers, talented supporters and advertisers who have continuously added ideas, joined the creative conversation and breathed more life into these pages than we ever dreamed possible.

What some may see as a growing magazine, a website and Facebook page, we now realize is a community collaboration.

For Imperial Valley Alive! publisher Reliance Public Relations, Inc., the recognition and growth of the magazine has been an extraordinary way to celebrate its 20th anniversary in business. Bill and Sue Gay founded the public relations agency in October 1997 in El Centro. Sue Giller and Peggy Dale joined the firm in 2016.

Through the years, the firm has worked, and continues to work, to help scores of clients meet a variety of communications challenges.

We long felt the Valley was ripe for a regional magazine. Of course, we alone could not make it happen.

Reliance has added two employees whose work is vital to the magazine: graphic artist Alejandra Noriega and Bill Amidon, our advertising director. Advertising consultants Mark Gran and John Lovecchio, along with social media consultant Marissa Bowers, also are essential members of the team.

The growing success of the magazine prompted us to tackle another unmet Valley communication need. The result is a new annual publication that will debut soon called Valley Agribusiness and Desert Growing Digest.

The new magazine will focus on the agriculture industry and the $4.5 billion economic impact it has on the region. The publication is intended for growers, the support industry, those who market

Have Imperial Valley Alive! delivered to your home Quarterly magazine $16.80/annual

subscription

(Tax included) Fill out the information and mail it and your check to:

Reliance Public Relations, Inc., P.O. Box 1944, El Centro, CA 92244

FROM LEFT: The Imperial Valley Alive! team of Bill Amidon, Marissa Bowers, John Lovecchio, Peggy Dale, Sue Gay, Sue Giller, Alejandra Noriega and Bill Gay pose at their booth at the 2018 Business Showcase. Not shown is Mark Gran. -PHOTO BY JOSELITO N. VILLERO agricultural products and all interested in the region.

Like Imperial Valley Alive!, Valley Agribusiness will be a glossy, full-color publication with a print circulation of 5,000. It also will be available online.

Valley Agribusiness also will be full of facts, figures, and data vital to various aspects of agribusiness. And it will have the thoughtful, thorough magazine-style articles you find in Imperial Valley Alive!

Current subscribers will receive a copy of the first Valley Agribusiness magazine as our thanks for your ongoing support.

Beginning with our next issue in Spring, the subscription rate for Imperial Valley Alive! will go up to $20 a year and will include Valley Agribusiness for a total of five magazines per year.

But enough of what lies ahead. As the New Year begins, it’s time to enjoy the here and now. In the winter edition of Imperial Valley Alive! we focus on how nature has turned all its charm on the Imperial Valley. No wonder snowbirds -- human and avian -- flock here at this time of year. This is why many of us rouse from a summer of airconditioned hibernation to throw open windows and reawaken to the wonder of living in an oasis in the middle of the Southwest desert.

The sense of reawakening that the New Year brings to the desert was the inspiration of the magazine’s theme. Inside, you will find a wide range of articles that encourage you to go out and do something, something you already enjoy or something new.

You also will also have a chance to read about some fascinating people whose stories may inspire you to soar to new heights.

We hope you enjoy! 

Name: _____________________________________________________ Email: _____________________________________________________ Address: ___________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ City: _______________________________ State: __________________ Zip: ______________________________ Country: __________________

www.imperialvalleyalive.com Winter 2018

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INDEX |

Volume 2, Number 2 EDITORS & PUBLISHERS Bill Gay Susan Giller Peggy Dale

CONTRIBUTORS

Richard Montenegro Brown Sarah Malan Neal V. Hitch Gary Redfern Darren Simon

COVER PHOTO Kevin Marty

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Alejandra Noriega

WEB DESIGNER Jesus Uriarte

SALES

Bill Amidon Sue Gay Mark Gran John Lovecchio

SOCIAL MEDIA Marissa Bowers

ADVERTISING

advertising@imperialvalleyalive.com 760-693-5330

PRINTER

Imperial Printers, El Centro

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Send name, address and email address along with $16.80 for annual subscription to:

Reliance Public Relations, Inc. P.O. Box 1944 • El Centro, CA 92243

www.imperialvalleyalive.com IMPERIAL VALLEY ALIVE! is published quarterly

by Reliance Public Relations, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical for any purpose without the written permission of Reliance Public Relations, Inc.

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Winter 2018

Hikers walk past a rundown structure near what once was a gunpowder shack. From left to right: Karen Love of El Centro; Jeanne Nelson of Boulevard; Michael Rood of El Centro; John Lee and Jagger Lee of San Diego; Nancy Rood of El Centro; Simona Deaciuc of El Centro and Dan Hilburn of Brawley. – Photo by Kevin Marty

GO |

COMFORT |

Take a Hike and Find Your Happy Place, Page 6

Therapy Dogs Quiet Nerves, Anxiety, Page 24

Indian Trails, Highways from History, Page 8

ECRMC Reaches Out Through Innovation, Page 26

Rocking Their World, Page 12

FOCUS |

Filmmaking Shines Light on Valley, Page 14

Photos From Readers, Pages, Page 36

GIVE |

ARC Opens Doors, Page 10

Dee’s Rescue Opens Hearts, Homes, Page 18

ON THE COVER: Hikers make their way through a dry streambed along the trail.

– Photo by Kevin Marty

| INDEX

HEAL |

Equine Therapy Eases Troubles,

Page 28-29

New County Psychiatrist Eyes Innovation, Page 30

Dentist Designs Future of Smiles, Pages 31

A rare, reddish-colored Houser geode, is one of many in the Imperial Valley Gem and Mineral Society collection.

-Photo by Joselito N. Villero

ALSO INSIDE |

Publishers’ Message,

Page 3

Subscriber Information,

Page 3

Where Can I Go?,

Page 22-23

Oscar Romero pets his visitor, Tiaki, also called "Mr. T,¨ a male standard Schnauzer therapy dog, on the medical-surgical floor at El Centro Regional Medical Center in El Centro.

-Photo by Joselito N. Villero

Calendar of Events,

Page 32-35

Local Reads, Page 38

Coupons, Page 44

ROGERS& ROGERS RAM

WWW.ROGERSAUTOS.COM Winter 2018

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GO |

Take A Hike

By Peggy Dale

6

So you think the desert is bland, brown and boring?

Oh, just go take a hike. You soon may change your mind.

“It’s important to get out and enjoy what we have, which is a lot of open spaces,” said Mike Rood, a retired attorney and Calexico native who has long enjoyed exploring all the Valley has to offer. Rood’s advice is easy to take this time of year, when the air is crisp and clear and the breezes (mostly) light.

“Now is a good time for desert hikes,” said Rood, who with his educator wife Nancy is part of a loose-knit group of hikers who explore the desert and mountains in western Imperial County and eastern San Diego County.

Known as the Jacumba Hikers, the group began about 5 1/2 years ago when Imperial Valley Desert Museum volunteers Greg Curran and Bill Pape collaborated Winter 2018

Find Your Happy Place with museum director Neal Hitch to offer hiking opportunities in response to visitors’ requests.

“Our original intent was to increase attendance to the museum and be an informational tool,” Pape said. “Then we expanded to the Jacumba area. Now about half of our hikes start in Jacumba.” The other half begin at the museum in Ocotillo.

Now retired from PSA/US Airways in aircraft maintenance, Pape grew up in Chula Vista and has been hiking most of his life, first exploring nearby hills and mountains with his dad.

“We were always doing something outdoors,” he said. “When I moved out here, part of the reason was I can go outside my door and walk unimpeded by humanity.”

Curran moved to San Diego from Pennsylvania when he joined the Navy. He ABOVE PHOTOS: Members of the Jacumba worked in Social Services for several years Hikers enjoy a hike in western Imperial County in early December. before buying property near In-Ko-Pah, – Photos by Kevin Marty which straddles the border of Imperial and

San Diego counties, in 2000. He began doing outreach for Clinicas de Salud del Pueblo Inc. in Brawley before retiring in 2012. Boredom, he said, drove him to find work near home as an instructional aide at Mountain Empire Unified School District.

A shared enjoyment of the desert and mountains, and in passing along their knowledge to others, connect Curran, Pape and Rood with others of like minds.

“Our intention is orienting people to the area, showing them around,” Pape said.

The group is an eclectic one, attracting people from many walks of life and with varying motivations.

Rhonda Burt, a competitive water skier who splits her week between her home in Rancho Bernardo and the private Imperial Lakes east of Plaster City, opts for more difficult hikes to increase her stamina.

“I’ve definitely been challenged, but there’s always someone better than me and it improves my abilities,” Burt said.

“Being out in nature kind of takes you away from the hustle and bustle of life and puts you in a good frame of mind. Mentally, it’s what keeps me going.”

Burt used hikes last spring to help her get in shape to climb Mt. Whitney last July.

“We backpacked it, did it in four days,” Burt said. “It was a bucket list thing, and I

think Jacumba Hikers hikes helped get me to that point. Failure wasn’t an option.”

Burt is on hiatus from hiking after being injured during ski practice, but she will be back, she said.

An informal and private group of amateur explorers, Jacumba Hikers holds members responsible for their own well-being. The group may have started fairly small, but it has blossomed to include more than 250 hikers on Curran’s contact list, although each individual hike attracts far fewer. A recent Saturday hike saw seven people show up, but sometimes there are up to 30 or 40 hikers. With eight to 10 hikers in the core group considered expert in various specialties, large groups can be divided into more manageable numbers.

Hikes are rated from one to four cactuses in difficulty: easy, moderate, hard and extreme.

Hikers are advised to know their own limits.

To prepare, Burt advises a would-be new hiker to start by walking around their own neighborhood, gradually increasing the distance. Talk to hike leaders to know what to expect, Curran advised. Hike leaders’ contact information is available on the

TOP: A massive boulder overhang provides shade and a place to camp. Here Michael Rood (El Centro, center) and John Lee examine the overhang.

BOTTOM: Jagger Lee of San Diego checks out what is remaining of a gunpowder shack, one of the stops along the hike.

CONTINUED | PAGE 40 – Photos by Kevin Marty WAFFLE SANDWICH

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GO | An aerial view of one of the geoglyphs near Blythe, known as the Blythe Giants, reveals the presence of the Kumeyaay over the last 3,000 years. – Photo courtesy of the Hank Casey Collection, Imperial Valley Desert Museum De Anza had to rely on local Native American guides to show him where trails and water sources were located. And they did.

After 11 days of travel through the desert in 1774, they reached present-day San Felipe Creek in the Borrego Valley. This was the best pasture they had seen in quite a while, and their guide informed them they were now entering another nation.

The indigenous population living on both sides of the Imperial Valley had a complex system of trails and mountain passes. They knew the terrain, seasons and water sources and had mapped out ways to get around. The system of trails was so heavily used that its traces can still be seen in the landscape.

The historic use and designation of trails by Native Americans is different from the modern concepts of overland travel. Rather than simply representing a fast or safe way of travel, the network and variety of trail systems used reflected the culture, beliefs, politics and economies of the native people.

The trails were well-maintained and clearly defined. Specific trails have been recorded for different uses, including hunting and war, migration, spiritual journeys and trade. These distinctions further extended between tribal groups and lineages – some trails could have doubled as territorial markers. The presence of shrines and offerings provides evidence that spiritual beliefs were also woven into the trail network.

Interstate 8 is called the Kumeyaay Highway. This is because the road was built over the trail that connected the coast to the inland desert. The trail was the main pass from the mountains to the desert, much like it is today. Near the border of Imperial and San Diego counties, I-8 crosses through In-Ko-Pah and Jacumba. Both of these places are derived from Kumeyaay words – “hacume” means still hot waters and “in-ko-pah” means people of the east.

In 1988 Jay von Werlhof completed a study of the trails coming out of the Laguna mountains. This work forms a component of an exhibit at the Imperial Valley Desert Museum, and it shows how Jacumba was a crossroad of movement down to the desert.

As one of the few year-round settlements, Jacumba had a Highways permanent water source and agriculture. from History The natural hot spring in Jacumba is a great reason to go there today. This is not new. Jacumba has been an area of settlement for at least 9,000 years because of the spring.

During the construction of a recent clean energy project in Jacumba, archaeologists discovered an earth oven 21 feet below

By Neal V. Hitch ground that dated to 7780 B.C. Native American oral traditions speak of tending the land in harmony with the natural world. As In 1774, Juan Bautista de Anza led a group of 34 Spanish the community established in Jacumba grew, specialized farming explorers and 140 animals from modern-day Arizona to the San Francisco Bay. That March they came across the Imperial Valley. techniques were developed to mimic nature’s rhythms, boosting They considered the area inhospitable and knew they had a “lack the bounty of important plants like acorn and agave.

Many ovens were found, and pollen analysis completed on the of knowledge of the trails, of the locations of water, and of the soil removed from them revealed that there has been little change quality and limited supply even when found.”

Anyone who hikes in the Imperial Valley knows the above quote in the environment since that time. The Kumeyaay had adapted to the same extremes as today’s desert landscape. One of the still rings true. Dr. Carlos Herrera, in his book "Juan Bautista ways they did this was to have campsites both in the mountains, de Anza: the King’s Governor in New Mexico", notes that the Western Sonoran Desert was treeless, hostile and had uncertain and down in the Imperial Valley. Much like today, the weather was water and forage. It was “terra incognito,” an unknown land. nice in the mountains during the summer, and nice in the desert Hiking and driving in the desert is great fun, but it is still easy to during the winter. get lost.

For the last 10,000 years, the Kumeyaay have been moving

Native Trails

8

Winter 2018

between the coast and the Ancient Lake Cahuilla shore. Trails extend from the Laguna Mountains down to the Coyote Mountains and then over to the Superstition Mountains. Here, multiple archaeological sites have been documented along the shore of the lake that existed for millennia, filling and receding approximately every 150 years.

Trails also skirted the Fish Creek Mountains above the Lake Cahuilla water line. These trails are steep and narrow, but provided a route and access to areas where the lake came right up to mountains.

Along Highway 86, west of Salton City, the water line of Ancient Lake Cahuilla can still be seen. Here, at 39 feet above sea level, what looks like a bathtub ring indicates the height of the lake reached.

The ring is actually tufa deposits, which were created when calcium carbonate precipitated out of water. Rocks covered with tufa exist in many places throughout the Imperial Valley, indicating the extent of the lake. Today, trails that are found in areas like the side of mountains or across the Yuha Desert seem out of place. But they exist in areas above the water line.

Images, artifacts and information about the Native Trails are on display at the Imperial Valley Ancient Lake Cahuilla was large, six Desert Museum in Ocotillo.

CONTINUED | PAGE 41

– Photo courtesy of the Imperial Valley Desert Museum

Winter 2018

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GIVE |

ARC StrikeZone

By Susan Giller

10

Arturo Santos is such a fan of Don Quixote that his office is littered with drawings, paintings and sculptures of the legendary knight whose misguided attempts at chivalry became a literary hit for Spanish writer Miguel de Cervantes.

As chief executive officer of ARC Imperial Valley, Santos’ interest is understandable since he, like the Man of La Mancha, is ever on a quest to reach for lofty, if not unreachable, dreams. ARC Imperial Valley’s mission is “helping people with mental and physical challenges achieve their potential,” which means finding them jobs, independence and integration into the community.

And, like Don Quixote, Santos and ARC are often locked in battle with virtually unbeatable foes. For ARC those adversaries include funding limitations, lack of employment opportunities and, in some ways, community acceptance.

However, Santos and ARC Imperial Valley need not go off tilting at windmills with sticks. Rather they brace for challenges with an arsenal of lawn and janitorial crews, a formidable kitchen staff, a renowned pizzeria and now with Winter 2018

Employing Some Unlikely Methods With Greater Purpose in Mind

bowling pins and balls. The StrikeZone Entertainment Center at 950 N. Imperial Ave. in El Centro was opened by ARC Imperial Valley in July as its newest method to achieve its mission.

Santos is quick to concede ARC Imperial Valley employs some unlikely methods to accomplish a greater purpose.

“We do it all,” Santos said. “Even compared to other ARCs around the state, we are pretty cutting-edge. We have been told that we are often used as an example.”

As a happy byproduct, ARC and its clients are building a formidable business, growing the local economy and winning fans and admirers around the Valley.

ARC Imperial Valley’s customers include: federal agencies, diners at its Mozzarelli Eatery and now legions of bowlers at StrikeZone.

StrikeZone replaces the once-popular Brunswick XL, which closed in May 2016 to the shock and dismay of local bowling enthusiasts.

StrikeZone now features 36 lanes with a state-of-the-art automated scoring system, 4k entertainment system, billiards, laser tag, an arcade, Mozzarelli Pub and a whole lot of fun.

TOP:The 36 lanes and a state-of-the-art automated scoring system stand ready for the onslaught of bowlers at the recently opened StrikeZone in El Centro. BELOW: Arturo Santos, ARC Imperial Valley chief executive officer, talks about the organization's goals in opening StrikeZone.

-Provided by ARC

Patsy Robinson, president of the IV Bowlers Association, said of ARC’s StrikeZone, “We’re really grateful they opened it.”

She said bowlers appreciate that ARC was wise to rehire the manager and much of the staff from the previous bowling alley management group. And she was complimentary of the expanded pro shop.

“We are not normal customers and we’re not easy customers,” she said.

She said about 288 local bowlers have rejoined the league since StrikeZone opened and she expects more will follow.

“It was rough going for a while,” Robinson said, “but I think things are working out now”.

And, with practice bowlers are getting better at their game.

“We’ve had several bowl 300 game since it opened,” Robinson said.

Satisfying customers is the quixotic route ARC has forged to meet its higher purpose, according to Santos. The path leading to ARC’s development of its burgeoning businesses was laid when California began the process of closing its state hospitals and releasing individuals with intellectual disabilities back to their home communities.

ARC Imperial Valley was formed in 1973

as state legislation opened the door to services that enabled the disabled the right to services that enable them to lead more independent lives and integrate into the community.

Today, the organization has a staff of nearly 200 that provides service for its 227 clients through an array of programs ranging from an Adult Development Center and Behavior Management Program for those needing constant supervision to a variety of work activities, including a sheltered workshop, residential services that include three group homes in Imperial and an activity center.

The administration and most of the programs are now based at ARC’s 22,000-square-foot complex at 298 E. Ross Road in El Centro.

It wasn’t always like that. When he joined the organization in 1991, Santos said it was clear that the intellectually disabled needed to be able to earn a paycheck to gain more independence.

However, he said he quickly learned, “If we want to employ people, we have to build a business. So that is what we do.”

ARC Imperial Valley first launched its larger business operations with the assistance of a federal program now

Shoes and bowling equipment are available for rental at StrikeZone.

-Provided by ARC known as AbilityOne, which lets nonprofit organizations provide services for federal agencies. The catch is: individuals with severe disabilities must do 75 percent of the work.

Through AbilityOne contracts, ARC Imperial Valley has grown to be the largest secured janitorial/yard maintenance company in the Valley with contracts to clean and service the Border Patrol and Customs facilities at the border as well as at other facilities, Santos said.

ARC also runs a recycling center, a car wash and a sizeable bus system from its CONTINUED | PAGE 42

Bowling Alley • Restaurant • Arcade Lazer Zone • Billiards • Fast Food Pro-Shop • Bar • Happy Hour owned and operated by Arc

Helping People with Intellectual Disabilities Reach their Potential Get more info and promotions! Like us at

/StrikezoneIV Winter 2018

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GO |

Gems and Minerals

By Darren Simon

12

In far eastern Imperial County near the base of the Chocolate Mountains, vast stretches of bronzed rock cover the landscape. It’s an impressive sight on its own, but turn over those rocks and an array of colors and new discoveries becomes evident.

For Imperial Valley Gem & Mineral Society members, the thrill of potentially unlocking geological mysteries is a lure to every corner of the Imperial Valley — to hidden washes and ridges, to mountain ranges and flatlands. Anyone is welcome to join.

To devoted rock hounds, every new geode, fire agate and speck of gold is a natural treasure, some of which are unique to the Valley. Every find is something new to share.

“We are all those little kids who wanted to pick up that rock we saw. We just never grew out of it,” said Joe Rodrigues, the club’s secretary and outreach coordinator.

Rodrigues and club president John Pyle spoke about their finds and the club’s activities recently at the Gem & Mineral Society’s building on the Imperial Valley Winter 2018

Rocking Our World

Expo grounds. Once a year, during the California Mid-Winter Fair & Fiesta, the club opens the building to crowds eager to learn about the desert’s precious minerals, fossils and crystalline formations.

For 77 years, the club has brought together rock hounds eager to explore the Valley’s geology, to find the unexpected beauty held within the earth.

Pyle likens the excitement rock hounds feel about each new find to the awe children express during the fair when they watch a geode split open to show the world of crystalline shapes hidden within.

“That look on their face is the same look we have,” Pyle said.

The building’s meeting room features a mural depicting the club’s early history when members would head out on multiday expeditions in search of gems and minerals.

They traveled in Jeeps or bring along mules to carry packs and tents, and slept under the stars.

Today, club members may only take daylong treks, but their passion for what they may find hasn’t dimmed. In addition to field trips, the club meets at least three Wednesdays a month with one meeting focused on gold.

TOP: Jewelry made with stones found in Imperial County is crafted by Joe Rodrigues of the Imperial Valley Gem and Mineral Society.

CENTER: Rodrigues holds a copy of "Prospecting for Minerals,¨ written by S. Herbert Cox and published in 1903 in London.

BOTTOM: A Hauser bed geode was discovered off of Milpitas Road east of Palo Verde. – Photos by Joselito N. Villero

And yes, there is gold in “them hills.”

Rodrigues, who has read extensively about the geological importance of the Valley, said it was gold that first drew Europeans to the Valley. Spaniards, he said, were the first to discover gold in the region in the 1700s. Later, Mexicans mined the local mountains.

As the excitement of the 1849 California Gold Rush faded, other miners made their way to the Valley.

“The miners brought investors and people interested in progress,” Rodrigues said. “They saw there was a great desert that could bloom. That is when the interest in agriculture began.”

The remains of the old gold mining town of Tumco still stand off of Ogilby Road near the base of the Cargo Muchacho Mountains in eastern Imperial County. The Cargo Muchachos, which lie east of the Algodones Dunes and south of the Chocolate Mountains, are the site of the American Girl and other dormant commercial gold mines. And commercial mining in the Valley has never stopped.

Today, New Gold Inc. operates Western Mesquite Mine, a large gold mine east of Glamis that uses a leaching process to extract the gold. Commercial mining at the Mesquite deposit began in the mid-1980s. Active mining ceased in 2001 due to dropping gold prices. In 2003 rising gold prices prompted commercial mining to resume. Today the mine produces about 165,000 ounces of gold a year.

And on the western side of the Valley, not far from Ocotillo, U.S. Gypsum operates a large gypsum mine and quarry. Gypsum is used to make plasterboard and other products at the plant’s Plaster City manufacturing facility.

Actually, many gold claims are active parts of the Valley. The Imperial Valley Gem & Mineral Society holds one of them.

Pyle, who joined the club to help his elderly father on treks to the claim, remembers the day his father found a gold nugget. With no

John Pyle (left), president of Imperial Valley Gem and Mineral Society, and Joe Rodrigues stand next to a sand spike (center).

The sand pike, similar in shape to an ice cream cone, is unique and found only in Imperial Valley. – Photo by Joselito N. Villero water nearby, they used a device to dry-separate the gold from the other material.

“We were in the Cargo Muchachos and I was dry washing,” Pyle said. “He found a nugget and held it up. I could see from 20 feet away it was gold. We had finally found something of size, and it was like — what! That was a real moment.”

Gold is far from the only precious metal, gemstone or mineral CONTINUED | PAGE 43

Winter 2018

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FOCUS |

T OP LEFT: Clint Eastwood's "American Sniper" was made in California, where it filmed over 29 days, including in Imperial County, in 2014.

ABOVE: The pilot for "Mayans M.C.,¨ a spinoff of "Sons of Anarchy,¨ was filmed in Calexico.

BOTTOM LEFT: A video for the band Disturbed was shot in Imperial County in 2010.

– Photos provided by The Imperial County Film Commission

Moviemaking

By Richard Montenegro

14

It’s been well over 30 years since the epic barge scene in “Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi” was filmed in the Imperial Valley’s Buttercup Valley, a scene everyone knows and still talks about today due to the iconic status of the Star Wars franchise.

But it’s the modern era of moviemaking that defines the Valley as a popular production spot for all manner of movie, music video and commercial makers.

More than a decade removed from the establishment of the Imperial County Film Commission, the Imperial Valley now is a spot that can quickly go from a Mexican border town like the one recently needed for the “Sons of Anarchy” spinoff, “Mayans M.C.,” to a post-apocalyptic badlands rife with cannibals and freaks in “The Bad Batch,” which filmed extensively around Niland and the Slabs and starred Keanu Reeves, Jim Carey and Jason Momoa.

“We’re more than just sand,” said Film Commission Consultant Charla TeetersStewart.

“It’s the array of different looks we offer, everything from Middle East and Afghanistan, to the border,” she said when Winter 2018

asked what draws crews to the Valley.

There’s the art deco look of downtown El Centro, the ‘50s-’60s vibe of Brawley, or the Old West look of Holtville, she said.

It’s that desert that’s key to the success of the Valley as a film location, though. When the backdrop of a set for a photo shoot or a film is just as much of a character as the actors and actresses, no one does the desert quite like the Imperial Valley.

When Anna Coats and the filmmakers behind “War Dogs” needed the Middle East, they looked no further than the Imperial Valley. Coats was a key assistant location manager for 2016’s “War Dogs,” starring Jonah Hill and Miles Teller based on the true story of American arms dealers.

Coats had a help in casting the Valley as Afghanistan, shooting in five locations in the Valley, from the same buildings used in “American Sniper” a couple of years earlier, to the Superstition Mountains area along Huff Road. They shot at the Imperial County Airport as well.

“They make it accessible and the different looks that you can find down there” are great Coats said, referring to the help in permitting and coordination that comes from the Film Commission, and city, county, state and federal officials. She said “War Dogs” had to work through numerous

Locations Keys to Valley's Success jurisdictions to make it go, including the city of El Centro and the U.S. Bureau of Land Management.

“War Dogs” was quite the technical shoot; if you’ve seen it, you might remember key scenes outside a gas station in Afghanistan where the Taliban is chasing Jonah Hill’s and Miles Teller’s characters, only to have a U.S. military helicopter swoop in and save the hour.

That was all constructed and filmed here.

It’s been a few years since “War Dogs” shot here (2015), but there has been no shortage of projects using the Valley since. Teeters-Stewart took over as Film Commission Consultant in 2008 and that year she tracked 27 productions. “Last year, we tracked 99,” she said.

Imperial County District 4 Supervisor Ryan Kelley believes part of the surge in filming is the success Imperial County is having in telling its story and the story of the Salton Sea to a wider audience, and showing a “whole other part of California.”

Teeters-Stewart added that Bombay Beach, which is in Kelley’s supervisorial district, is the No. 1-filmed location in the county.

“We are seeing a very strong surge in filming activity especially in the northern areas around the Salton Sea. I’d like to see

a lot more of that,” Kelley said. “We’ve been trying to educate scouting managers and producers. We try to promote how easy it is to try to go through the permitting process down here.”

The month of November is a good example of how varied the uses of the Valley can be. Motor Trend shot a web-only series, there was a music video, Vogue had a photo shoot, and the shoe company Fluevog filmed a commercial at Salvation Mountain. November saw a total of eight productions, and December had already seen seven productions early in the month.

Getting to this point has been very intentional. Teeters-Stewart said streamlining the process of permitting was job one, as was getting all the players involved to the right places on the first try. That’s important when the Valley is benefitting from real dollars spent by film crews at hotels, gas stations, restaurants, grocery stores and untold types of businesses, Teeters-Stewart and Kelley said.

“We’re averaging between $1.7 million and $3.3 million a year in economic impact,” Teeters-Stewart said, adding she expects filming in Imperial County will remain at a constant clip as the California Film Commission (CFC) continues to administer the Film and Television Tax Credit Program 2.0.

A lot of work goes into filming in the Valley, especially from the local end of things. A lot of times, producers will go directly to the California Film Commission with requests for locations, and the California Film Commission will pass that down to local film commissions.

Teeters-Stewart said, for example, the commission was contacted by the CFC recently looking for “abandoned spaces.”

And Teeters-Stewart filled that request by forwarding multiple photos in hopes that it hits pay dirt. Sometimes a production needs “corn in March,” as yet another example, so off she goes.

About 80 percent of the job is reacting to those types of requests, with about 20 percent being true marketing of the area.

“We have a good reputation of being an easy-to-use area of California,” TeetersStewart said.

Coats, for one, appreciates that reputation and has benefited from it firsthand. She was especially thankful for all the entities that came together to make sure “War Dogs” got some epic scenes that weren’t entirely planned, like getting set up for the military choppers that touch down at Imperial County Airport to fuel. She said airport officials warned they’d be coming, so that made the cut into the film.

“They were so helpful,” Coats said.

“The city of El Centro, everyone was quite welcoming and helpful in every way.”

As is the nature of the business, there isn’t always a call for repeat work at a location. But Coats said, “Given the right need and the right script, I would definitely recommend going down there again.”

Kelley takes it one step further. He said the time is right for a recurring story to be told with the Valley as the backdrop.

“I think there is a story about a border town (out there), a drama on network TV or a pay service like Netflix or Amazon,” he said. 

TOP: The Salton Sea was the setting for a photo shoot by John Midgley.

CENTER: Bedouin Soundclash, a reggaeinfluenced Canadian band, films in the sand dunes.

BOTTOM: The Buttercup Valley sand dunes were the backdrop for "Stargate.¨ – Photos from I.C. Film Commission

Winter 2018

15

Ricochet R/C and Hobby Shop

By Peggy Dale Step into Ricochet R/C Raceway and Hobby Shop on just about any

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Winter 2018

Two-Wheel, Four-Wheel and Ones That Fly

afternoon and you’ll find a hub of activity. Cars fly around a sophisticated track setup as their owners hone their skills with remote controls. Then there

are the drones, taking the art of racing remotely to a new level, literally.

Located inside Ricochet Rec Center at 450 W. Aten Road in Imperial,

LEFT: From left,, Victor Pitones, Tristan Brigman, Niki Gochenour, Terry "Deuce¨ Robinson, Carla Sandoval and Joel Gonzalez are shown in the Hobby Shop at Ricochet R/C. – Photos by Peggy Dale the track and shop have been owned since Oct. 1 by Joel Gonzalez, his fiancée, Carla Sandoval, and Joel’s longtime pal Terry “Deuce” Robinson.

“It kind of fell into our laps,” said Gonzalez, who with Sandoval and Robinson bought the business from founder and previous owner, Mark Gaddis.

They are in the process of rebranding the shop and racetrack, transforming the orange in the logo, on T-shirts and countertops into blue and black. TVs have been installed around the track so customers can watch sports, Gonzalez said.

Robinson, who also co-owns the 4:13 Fitness Center across the street, and Gonzalez, also general manager of Desert RV Service, are no newcomers to racing or to remote control cars.

Gonzalez was 10 when he bought his first car “for $29 from Radio Shack.” Deuce also was 10, but he bought what he called “a real R/C car” – a Traxxis Sledge Hammer, with money he saved from his paper route.

In those days, cars raced outdoors on dirt tracks at sites throughout the Valley. Ricochet R/C’s off-road track is carpeted, with the formation changed quarterly to keep races competitive. Victor Pitones, track manager, is the master of design. Pitones has been working at Ricochet R/C Raceway and Hobby Shop since it opened in 2016. Also on staff are Tristan Brigman and Niki Gochenour, as track support.

Gonzalez said after learning through a phone call that the business was for sale, he talked about it with Sandoval and Robinson. Together they decided to buy it.

R/C racing is “an affordable hobby, based on what you’re willing to put into it,” Robinson said. “The stock class is extremely affordable, or you can go all out.”

There is a wide variety of car bodies for purchase at the Hobby Shop.

“We have two-wheel, four-wheel and ones that fly,” said Sandoval, who prefers to race the drones.

“They’re super easy to fly,” she said. The drones are programmed to stay between 3 and 6 feet above the ground, which limits crash-ability, “unless you hit the wall.”

The Hobby Shop stocks all parts needed to upgrade or repair the cars.

Customers range from seasoned remote control racers to the much younger set accompanied by their parents. Races are Wednesdays and Saturdays, with racers coming from as far as Phoenix on weekends. 

760-344-3160 | www.brawleychamber.com

The Brawley Chamber of Commerce January Mixer will be from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 25 at Ricochet R/C Raceway.

Winter 2018

17

GIVE |

Dee's Rescue

Two Paths to Helping Four-Legged Friends

By Sarah Malan

Dee Forbey holds one of a half-dozen dogs up for adoption Dec. 16 at Tractor Supply in El Centro. – Photo by Sarah Malan

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Winter 2018

There is a story about a man who walked along a beach covered with starfish stranded by the high tide. As he walked, he picked one up at a time and threw it back into the ocean. A skeptical observer approached him and pointed out that with so many stranded starfish, the man couldn’t possibly make a difference to all of them. Throwing another starfish back into the sea, the man said, “It made a difference to that one.”

The Imperial Valley has its own population in need of a difference: dogs and cats without homes.

Dee’s Rescue in El Centro is one of the groups working to create a better future by placing homeless animals with loving families.

The mission of Dee’s Rescue is “to help abandoned/ relinquished/stray cats and dogs find loving families. (And) to get people to adopt from a shelter/rescue since there is so many in need of homes.”

Based in El Centro, the rescue also offers the community low-cost spay and neuter services to help prevent further pet overpopulation.

The rescue works with Imperial County Animal Control as well as those in Brawley and Imperial and other organizations and individuals who find lost or abandoned animals. Many of the animals already have families and are lost so the rescue works to reunite them via the Facebook page Imperial Valley: Lost and Found Pets.

The ones that have no homes or can’t be returned are put up for adoption. Dee Forbey, who started Dee’s Rescue, takes great care to ask adoptive families plenty of questions, to be sure they are ready to take care of a new family member.

Finding homes for the Valley’s four-legged residents is a noble cause and Forbey suggests there are a couple of ways

to make a difference either in a few animals’ lives forever or by helping hundreds who are in transition. There is no wrong answer and everyone has a chance to make a difference.

Adopting a pet can be a life-enriching experience. However, first make sure you — your family, home and finances — are ready for all that adoption entails.

Once all the home-life boxes are checked, bringing a pet into the family can offer immeasurable joy.

“Just make sure you’re ready for this,” Forbey said. “Make sure you know that this is a forever commitment. This animal is going to live to be 10, 15 years old, and it’s going to be your family member.”

Families that adopt a pet from Dee’s Rescue get a 10-day trial period because sometimes adoptions don’t work out: incompatible demeanors, allergies or other unforeseen issues crop up. Usually, the pet and family are a good fit. Forbey recounted a number of times families have approached her, saying the adoption brought them the best pet they’ve ever had.

Though pet adoption is a fine goal, there are other ways to make a difference. If you don’t have space or are not ready to adopt, you can help

Dogs wait to be adopted at Tractor Supply. –Photo by Sarah Malan Dee’s Rescue by making a contribution, providing food or giving of your time.

Dee’s Rescue is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit so donations qualify for tax deductions.

“We always need donations because we spay and neuter and then lots of times I do community service,” Forbey said. “We always need money, we always need food. … What I would really like to have is somebody that might be

pre-vet or going to vet school to come in once a week or something and evaluate my animals and be able to tell me what we need to do with them.”

The animals are medically cared for, but the more concentrated medical attention would free up time to tend to other facets of the facility.

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retention. Selecting the right type and size is a personal choice.

Experts agree on how to best to prep a cooler.

Pre-chill it first. Frozen water bottles or ice packs can cool it down and keep it cold when not in use. And, chill or freeze contents before adding them.

A mix of cube and block ice chill best. Cube ice works more quickly but will also melt faster. Block ice uses up space but Everyone has at least one, probably collecting dust lasts longer. Dry ice may be the ultimate solution, but only with somewhere. Originally purchased with the intent of taking on an appropriately rated cooler. adventures, they usually end up being used only at occasional For shopping and most daily needs, ice substitutes such as gatherings. It’s that trusty old ice chest or cooler. durable plastic freezer packs work.

In the Imperial Valley, there are many reasons to dust off and Keep the cooler full. Extra air space makes the ice melt faster. use a cooler just about every day. When you think about it, most Add ice, more contents or towels to fill up extra space. Some adventures don’t involve going into the wilderness. experts recommend using crumpled newspaper to fill the void.

Having a cooler on hand for shopping is convenient, especially If the cooler’s contents can handle full saturation, keep during the summer. melted ice in the cooler. Super-chilled water helps insulate the With the Valley’s warm and dry climate, vehicles usually remaining ice. don’t cool until reaching their destination. Groceries suffer the When using ice blocks, drain the water. And, keep food dry in consequences. water resistant zip-top bags.

A properly equipped cooler keep groceries food fresh.

Keep coolers out of direct sunlight to better retain the ice inside There are some tricks to making it work effectively without and extend the life of the cooler. An added layer of insulation in constant effort. First, make sure the cooler is right for the job. a vehicle can also help prevent theft. Today, a premium cooler Coolers have come in many shapes and sizes over the. New is attractive to thieves. And always use cable locks or other coolers are both hard and soft, heavy-duty and light-duty but security when coolers are left in a truck bed. reliability is the most important selling point.

Keep the cooler closed and latched. A tight seal traps the cool air inside. And limit access to ensure what’s inside remains cold Top-of-the-line models can cost hundreds of dollars, but will easily outperform and outlast anything else. And, there are many and fresh.

Keep an unused cooler clean and dry. Bacteria and mold will great options on the market for just about every budget. And, thrive in a cooler that’s left wet and allowed to get warm. Use even better, they are available from locally. bleach wipes or soap and water before storing a cooler to avoid Hard-side coolers are most durable, but they can also be heavy. Soft-side coolers are lighter but sacrifice capacity and ice creating a festering biohazard. 

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Winter 2018

21

Get Outdoors

Explore the Imperial Valley

1 S onny Bono State National Wildlife Refuge

At the southern end of the Salton Sea, the refuge is part of the Pacific Flyway and draws birdwatchers worldwide.

2 B lue Angels

The Navy's elite flight demonstration squadron calls Naval Air Facility El Centro its winter home.

The blue and gold jets can be seen practicing above the base, which will host its annual air show in March.

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3 Coyote Mountains Wilderness

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The Coyote Mountains make up 40 percent of this wilderness in western Imperial County and eastern San Diego County. Part of the Carrizo Badlands lie within the northern portion of the wilderness, their narrow and twisting gullies giving the landscape its austere, forbidding appearance."

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4 Mexicali

Capital of Baja California, Mexico, the city has a zoo, a sports convention center, museums and an international airport. Visitors cross by foot or car from Calexico. Pharmacies, medical and dental services are becoming increasingly popular to U.S. citizens who can't afford treatment in California.

The baseball stadium hosts various events in the off-season. Among those will be the X Pilots, world freestyle motocross, on Feb. 24.

5 California Mid-Winter Fair & Fiesta

The 10-day fair runs this year from March 2-11 at the Imperial Valley Expo in Imperial.

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Winter 2018

7 A nzaBorrego

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is the largest state park in California containing 500 miles of dirt roads, 12 wilderness areas, hiking trails and wildlife viewing.

6 C arrot Festival & Street Fair

The 71st festival will be Feb. 2-11 in Holtville, which annually celebrates its history as the “Carrot Capital of the World.� The parade kicks off at 10 a.m. Feb. 10.

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8 Felicity

Officially proclaimed The Center of the World, Felicity was brought to life from a children's book written by Jacques Istel and named for his wife, Felicia. It was legally established March 11, 1986, by the Imperial County Board of Supervisors.

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9 Algodones Sand Dunes

Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area, the largest sand dunes in California, extends more than 40 miles along the eastern edge of the Imperial Valley agricultural region.

10 Yuma Territorial Prison

Opened in 1876, it held a variety of law violators, including the legendary stagecoach robber Pearl Hart, and was closed 33 years later due to overcrowding. It is one of the Yuma Crossing and Associated Sites on the National Register of Historic Places in the Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area.

Winter 2018

23

COMFORT |

Therapy Dogs

By Gary Redfern

24

Lying in a hospital room, a young man faced a turbulent future. Distraught over a failing relationship, he just tried to end his life with an overdose of drugs. By chance, his mother saw a man with a sleek German shepherd in the hallway and asked if he might be able to comfort her son.

“We walked in and when he saw her a little light came into his eyes,” dog trainer Mike Burk said of the moment he and Goldie, his certified therapy dog, entered the room.

“Normally, she does not jump on to the bed without me telling her to, but she jumped right up and just put her head on his shoulder,” Burk added. “Once that happened, I started talking to him. Once we Winter 2018

Quieting N erves, Anxiety

left, his family thanked me.”

Burk, Imperial Valley’s canine whisperer, recalled the moment in an interview with Goldie asleep at his feet. Asked if dogs really care, without hesitation, he said, “I think so. Dogs are pack animals. There’s social interaction in the pack.”

He added, “It’s not a trained behavior.

Dogs can read cues (from people).”

Burk should know. The retired U.S. Air Force investigator and Calexico postmaster has, over the past three-plus decades, earned local celebrity status and national recognition for his second career training dogs. Whenever a question about the animals arises in local conversation, inevitably someone confidently says, “Go talk to Mike Burk.”

Tall and lanky, with a friendly demeanor,

he released a humble smile when reminded of his reputation with dogs.

“I’ve always loved dogs,” he said of the genesis of his vocation. “I trained my first German shepherd when I was in the sixth grade. My mother said whenever she was looking for me she’d find me in the backyard with my dogs.”

Burk, 64, was raised in Imperial and graduated from Imperial High School. His mother, the late Patty Burk, was a longtime member of the Imperial City Council.

When he joined the Air Force, where he investigated juvenile drug cases on military bases, he had to put his affection for dogs aside because he could not own one while on active duty, though Burk concedes he could not let go entirely.

“I hung out with the canine units,” he said

FACING PAGE: Oscar Romero pets his visitor, Goldie, a 5-year-old female German shepherd therapy dog, on the medical-surgical floor at El Centro Regional Medical Center in El Centro during his hospital stay in November.

TOP: Romero (center) sits with by therapy dog handlers and dogs (from left): Sharon Westerfield and Tiaki, also called Mr. T, and Mike Burk with Goldie. - Photo by Joselito N. Villero with a mild grin.

As his military career was concluding in Tucson in 1981, Burk got a German shepherd, Kai. He quickly made up for lost time.

“I trained him in tracking, obedience, narcotics search, search and rescue and as a certified therapy dog. He took second place at the Beverly Hills dog show as a utility dog and earned the highest American Kennel Club obedience title,” he said with the pride of a parent describing a child’s academic success.

Back in Imperial Valley, Burk’s skills soon earned notice and guru status was promptly bestowed.

“Joel and Judy Jacklich were members of the Imperial Valley Kennel Club and doing dog training classes. They asked me to come out and help. After they saw me with the dogs they said, ‘You are so far beyond us, you should take over the classes.’”

Burk recalls he took that as high praise because Joel Jacklich was no amateur instructor, having had a decades-long career as a music professor at Imperial Valley College and director of the Imperial Valley Symphony. But when it comes to dogs, Burk is the maestro and the community is the better for it.

Besides offering fee-based dog training and pet sitting, Burk is equally legendary for his community service. He not only takes Goldie, a 5-year-old female, to hospitals, convalescent homes and schools to soothe human emotions and teach about the versatile benefits of human-animal interaction, but two other dogs he has trained work as therapy dogs in the community.

Ginger, a 4-year-old female poodle-retriever mix, has a permanent gig with the Imperial County District Attorney’s Office, where she comforts child witnesses. Mr. T, a 5-year-old male schnauzer owned

by Sharon Westerfield, makes the rounds as Burk’s dog Goldie does.

Burk noted he did not train Goldie, as handlers cannot train their own therapy dogs, but his bond with her is ethereal nonetheless.

“I delivered her,” he said of her birth in a litter of seven puppies from her mother, Gabbie, a grand champion shepherd also owned

by Burk and his wife, Kathy Kline.

Sleek and muscular at 78 pounds with shimmering black fur tinged in brown, Goldie has a regal aura and yet her crisp movements CONTINUED | PAGE 46 Winter 2018

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COMFORT |

ECRMC Billi Jo Achurra has the best job at El Centro Regional Medical Center.

Just ask her.

As manager of Patient and Guest Relations, Achurra and department coordinator Achurra Nishall Gutierrez have introduced a winter visitor outreach program and implemented pet, aroma and music therapy programs, along with spiritual care, to treat the mind, body and soul. Gutierrez is instrumental in these programs, Achurra said, ensuring they happen weekly without a hitch.

“It’s really important when dealing with people who are very ill to take a look at what more you can do for those impacted by disease and illness and find ways to treat patients and their families as a whole,” Achurra said.

A change in hospital leadership about two years ago brought with it more open-mindedness toward the innovative

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Winter 2018

keep them healthy so they can enjoy the Imperial Valley and their stay.”

El Centro Regional Medical Winter visitors can learn more about Center, Innovative Therapies the outreach program by calling (844) MY ECRMC or (844) 693-2762, or by Highlight Patient Experience sending email to myecrmc@ecrmc.org or snowbirds@ecrmc.org.

At the hospital, visitors may find therapies, Achurra said. themselves serenaded by Music for “It’s very impactful,” she said. “Our Healing guitarist Ruben Hernandez, patients are so ill and their families are violinist Mariano Peinado or pianist so anxious. Our goal is to be able to look Abraham Duarte. at how we can bring a little bit of light, Ruben was “discovered” by Achurra optimism and positivity.” while performing as a paid musician Three pet therapy dogs have joined at a hospital gala. She asked if he’d be the hospital team, complete with badges interested in voluntarily performing at the that bear their names and photos. The hospital, which he now does weekly – dogs are Goldie, a German shepherd accompanied by handler Mike Burk; Tiaki, sometimes twice a week-starting in the a standard Schnauzer handled by Sharon lobby and making his way throughout the Westerfield; and Ginger, a golden doodle hospital.

His music has a visible effect on staff, handled by Ashley Allen. patients and families alike, Achurra said, With the winter visitor outreach program, noting once she watched a husband help the hospital offers “easy ways to contact his sick wife stand, IV still attached to her ECRMC.” Hospital staffers visit local RV arm, while they danced. parks to acquaint visitors with hospital “This is our song,” the husband told her. services and clinics. The hope is that “our Violinist Mariano’s story began as a winter visitors will be able to establish a premature newborn fighting for his life local physician while they are here, who in that very hospital. He was life-flighted will communicate with their primary care physician back home to ensure continuity to a San Diego hospital and since has faced many obstacles. To help him learn, of care,” Achurra said. “The goal is to

his parents turned to violin lessons. As he grew older, he would return to the El Centro hospital every year on World Prematurity Day and play for the nurses in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit where he once was a patient.

Now 17, he takes his violin throughout the hospital.

“He’s perfect for us because his story is profound, because he gives back and it comes so deeply from his heart,” Achurra said.

Duarte is a newcomer to the program.

The husband of a nurse on staff, Duarte’s instrument is a Steinway baby grand piano that once sat in the home of Dr. and Mrs. James M. Roach. After her husband’s death in late 2017, Mrs. Roach donated the piano to the healing program because, Achurra said, “Dr. Roach loved our program.”

Three local pastors help with spiritual care at the hospital. They are: the Rev. David Sereno from Heber Sacred Heart Mission, Marcos Perez of New Jerusalem Ministry, and Shane Herman from Calvary Chapel.

A more subtle part of the program is aromatherapy.

There are diffusers in each of the lobbies and throughout the hospital and

in its clinics that send faint but fragrant scents into the air.

But it’s the time invested by people that makes the most difference, Achurra said.

“When people spend two hours with others, it’s such a simple kindness, but it’s amazing what it does for others. The giveback changes lives, including your own,” she said.

Anyone interested in “giving back” by volunteering must apply and undergo background checks and tuberculosis tests. Each year they are subjected to annual certification to stay current, and wear a “true badge” that identifies them as volunteers.

As for Patient and Guest Relations, “This little piece, it changes the way we do things in health care. It’s about all of our healing touches – everything you can do to change a person’s moment,” Achurra said.

“I tell everyone I have the best job in the whole hospital,” Achurra said. “It comes with a lot of joy, and sometimes with sorrow. You meet people on the worst day of their lives, but at the end of the day you know you did something great for them.

Ruben Hernandez is one of a handful of You were there for them.” musicians performing at ECRMC. Simply, she said, “It’s an honor to be in -Provided by ECRMC health care.” 

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27

Imperial County Behavioral Health Services

A

nimals can reach a person and help them heal in ways no therapy or medication can.

“The Equine Therapy program used by the Youth and Young Adult Services (known as YAYA) at Imperial County Behavioral Health Services demonstrates this every day. Clients identified as high-risk are qualified to participate in Equine Therapy. The only requirement is a willingness to participate and a physical or medical clearance,” said Dalia Pesqueira, Behavioral Health Program supervisor for Youth and Young Adult Services.

“They learn discipline, how to feel good about themselves, and increase their self-esteem,” Pesqueira said.

“Traditional therapy can be stressful, and during therapy it can be difficult for them to express themselves. Out at the horse ranch, they have the opportunity to learn to trust their horse and themselves.”

Equine therapy is used worldwide to help people of all ages with special needs, whether emotional, behavioral, or physical, and has been shown to help people with ADHD, anxiety, autism, dementia, trauma and brain injuries, among other issues.

About six years ago, when funding became available through the state’s Mental Health Services Act, Behavioral Health staff turned to Marsha Boutwell, who has many years of equine therapy under her belt. Boutwell holds credentials from the Professional

“For the emotionally or mentally challenged person, the horse is merely a place for a metaphor to happen.”

- Marsha Boutwell, Animals Plus Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship, the Christian Camping Horsemanship International, American Riding Instructors Association and the Richard Shrake Resistance Free Training.

YAYA provides mental health services to young people between the ages of 12 and 25. Eight youths and six young adults are enrolled in current programs at Boutwell’s ranch, Animals Plus.

Participants are paired with one of her many horses, which opens up a new world for many of them. It’s a world in which youths who have problems communicating with family and/or peers finds a connection with a horse, which includes brushing the horses’ coat, caring for and nurturing this large

animal.

Parents and clients are able to obtain orientation before starting the program. The Equine Therapy program can take up to 50 sessions with no cost to participant.

“There’s so much going on here,” Boutwell said. “From the first day, they’re learning a new skill.”

Equine therapy often is combined with family therapy to help a client explore other avenues of communication, Pesqueira said.

“It’s easier for them to relax around animals,” she said. “They feel a connection to the animals. That interaction opens doors for them to trust themselves, to learn how to get close to others, that they can relate to.”

For example, with children diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactive disorder, equine therapy has helped them learn to focus and complete tasks. For others, it eases

Alcohol and Drug Prevention: 1295 State Street El Centro, CA 92243

28

800.817.5292 • 442.265.1525 Winter 2018

Alcohol and Drug Adolescent Outpatient Drug Free (ODF) Program: 1295 State Street, Suite 104 El Centro, CA 92243

Anxiety and Depression Clinic: (El Centro, Brawley and Calexico) 1295 State Street El Centro, CA 92243 Full Service Partnership Program: 1295 State Street El Centro, CA 92243

with their driver, said Pesqueira.

“They start to socialize with other kids riding in the car, and able to relate, and feeling like, ‘I’m not the only one feeling this way,’” she said.

There are many lessons to be found in equine therapy that link them to life’s lessons in general, Pesqueira and

anxiety, and offers youths a fourlegged friend with which they can connect.

“What’s basic and normal to us is huge to them,” Boutwell said. “It can seem insurmountable. We let them take their time, watch for when they’re ready.”

Before riding lessons even begin, the young men and women learn the more important, rudimentary elements in horsemanship.

“We teach them how to care for their horse, how to nurture it,” Boutwell said. That includes cleaning the stalls, which can reveal the health of the horse. “We teach them they can learn a lot about the health of the horse by what’s in the stall.”

Benefits extend beyond what the ranch itself – complete with “petting zoo,” roosting chickens and vegetable gardens – has to offer.

Participants are driven there by Behavioral Health Services staff. On the way, they often find connections

they make the wrong choice, there’s a consequence. There’s always a consequence. But they have all kinds of chances to produce character, truth, good choices.”

If you have any questions about Equine Therapy or to make an appointment for services, call:

442-265-1920

Boutwell say.

“With privilege comes responsibility,” said Boutwell. “They learn that if

Benefits: Learn self-discipline Increase self-esteem Learn to socialize Learn communication with others  Develop trust  Gain feelings of accomplishment  Learn to control emotions    

Winter 2018

29

HEAL |

Dr. Belen Davila

By Susan Giller When Dr. Belen Davila meets with clients in the bright, colorful Imperial County Behavioral Health Services Youth and Young Adults clinic in Brawley, it may seem a little like old home week.

She is, after all, back in her hometown following medical school and a lengthy residency. And, since joining county Behavioral Health as a staff psychiatrist in July, she gets to work side-by-side with her sister, Belinda Davila, RN, who is a nursing supervisor for the department.

Yet, there is nothing old-school about the range of evidence-based therapeutic options that the Behavioral Health psychiatrist can provide for clients in need of mental health services.

If anything, her return to the Valley bodes well for the future of local health care, according to county Behavioral Health Services Director Andrea Kuhlen.

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Winter 2018

Mind, Body, Spirit Partners in Healing

“Dr. Davila helps continue the dedication and ability our staff has in meeting the needs of our clients,” Kuhlen said. “It is inspiring that a young physician would return to her home community.”

As a staff psychiatrist, Dr. Davila rotates her time in several Behavioral Health Services programs including the adult Anxiety and Depression Clinic in El Centro and the Youth and Young Adult centers in Brawley and El Centro.

For Dr. Davila, returning home to practice with Behavioral Health Services is the realization of a long-held dream.

“I feel blessed to come back to Imperial Valley,” she said. “By age 7 I knew I wanted to go into medicine and to give back to my community,” she said.

The daughter of immigrants whose first language was Spanish, she understands the special needs and sensitivities of underserved communities. And she was undaunted by the long and formidable

academic challenges that lay ahead.

Dr. Davila is a graduate of Brawley Union High School. She earned her bachelor’s degree in physiology, with a minor in chemistry from Cal State Long Beach. She earned her medical degree in 2013 from the Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara in Mexico.

Following a pre-internship program at New York Medical College in Valhalla, N.Y., she completed her internship and psychiatric residency at Banner University Medical Center in Tucson, Ariz. While CONTINUED | PAGE 44

| HEAL

Dr. Siman Dr. Siman

Designing Future of Smiles

Cosmetic dentist Dr. Eddie Siman has offices in both El Centro and Brawley as well as in Sherman Oaks and Beverly Hills. He has authored two books and has been featured in various media, most recently on “The Doctors” show.

Here, he discusses his unique approach to dentistry by responding to a series of questions posed by I.V. Alive.

Did you always aspire to be a dentist?

Dr. Siman: Actually, no. When I was a kid I was more interested

in becoming an architect. I always liked to envision and design things.

Do you find that your early aspirations somehow connected to what you do now?

Dr. Siman: Absolutely! There are many elements of

construction, design and architecture in what I do. Creating a natural smile and a long-lasting, stable set of teeth that is going to feel good, requires a solid foundation.

What drives you to gain more knowledge and expertise year after year?

Dr. Siman: At the beginning of my career I was taught to restore

just a section of the mouth. This limited approach didn’t even begin to address the extensive and complicated needs of my patients. In response, I dedicated my career to advancing my knowledge and keeping up with the latest technology and treatment protocols, all while adding three decades of invaluable experience. Now I can restore someone with no teeth to a full set of 28 teeth in one day while the patient sleeps. The first step is conceiving and building a foundation to support a smile that will look good within a unique frame, which is your lips and most importantly your facial structure.

You have studied the "psychology¨ of smiles. How does changing the shape of a patient's teeth affect the "psychology¨ of their smile?

Dr. Siman: Your smile is your introduction to the world. Often,

we look at someone and perceive them to be assertive if their front teeth have square edges and their canine teeth are pointed. Picture some of Hollywood’s leading men, Tom Cruise, Denzel Washington or Harrison Ford; it’s not by accident or co­incidence that they each have dominant and assertive smiles. By simply rounding or sharpening the edges of a smile, I am able to soften or harden its appearance in a matter of minutes.

What is TMJ and why is it the source of pain and discomfort for so many of people?

Dr. Siman: Along with full-mouth reconstruction, diagnosing

and treating TMJ disorders is the primary focus of our practice.

TMJ is an acronym for temporomandibular joint. It is located near your ears where your jaw connects with your skull. This joint is

Do you suffer from any of the following?

Head Pain, Headache • Forehead • Temples • “Migraine” type • Sinus type • Shooting pain up back of head •H air and/or scalp painful to touch

Ear Problems • Hissing, buzzing or ringing • Decreased hearing • Ear pain, earache, no infection • Clogged, “itchy” ears • V ertigo, dizziness

Eyes • Pain behind eyes • Bloodshot eyes • May bulge • Sensitive to sunlight Mouth • Discomfort • Limited opening of mouth • Inability to open smoothly • Locks shut or open • Can’t find bite • Jaw deviates to one side when opening Teeth • Clenching, grinding at night • Looseness or soreness of back teeth Throat • Swallowing difficulties • Laryngitis • Sore throat with no infection • Frequent coughing or constant clearing of throat • Feeling of foreign object in throat constantly

Jaw • Clicking, popping jaw joints • Grating sound • Pain in cheek muscles • Uncontrollable jaw and/ or tongue movements

Neck • Lack of mobility, stiffness • Neck pain • Tired, sore muscles • Shoulder aches, backache • Arm, finder numbness or pain

necessary for nearly all of the activities that involve your mouth. If these muscles come under pressure due to misalignment, the result can be spasms that travel to the temples, causing headaches or pain around the face or jaw joint (and) limiting one’s ability to open the mouth.

Let's list some of the symptoms of TMJ. Dr. Siman: They include migraines, headaches, facial pain,

shoulder pain, neck pain, teeth grinding, ringing in the ears and ear congestion. The problem is that most practitioners, including dentists, doctors and chiropractors, address the symptoms because they don’t have the training and technology to diagnose and address TMJ, the root cause of all these issues.

Who is responsible for correctly diagnosing TJM? Dr. Siman: That’s another problem. TMJ problems should be

treated as multi-disciplinary, meaning they are dental as well as medical issues. Unfortunately, as many TMJ sufferers learn only after seeing multiple specialists, TMJ falls into a gap between the two professions. As dentists, we are mechanical people. We are taught basic anatomy, but the core of our training is fixing dental issues such as gum disease, root canals, cavities and broken teeth. We are taught some things about jaw function, but that’s pretty much where it ends. Dentists who truly want to be well-versed in other modalities need to study for years, continuing their education, which is what I chose to do. On the other hand, medical doctors rarely have any training in this field. The reality is that very few healthcare professionals have a complete understanding of this issue. I have dedicated 30 years of my career in expanding my knowledge in the field of diagnosing and curing TMJ.  Winter 2018

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Calendar of Events JANUARY Jan. 19-21

Yuma Home & Garden Show 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Jan. 19 and 20; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Jan. 21, Yuma Civic Center, 1440 W. Desert Hills Drive, Yuma.

“How to” demonstrations and seminars by leading experts in fields of landscaping, remodeling, finance, construction and more. Admission is $6 per day or $8 for a two-day pass.

Jan. 19

Lucha Libre Pro Wrestling 7 p.m. to 11 p.m., Hidalgo Society, 410 S. Cesar Chavez St., Brawley.

Brought by Venue Wrestling Entertainment, entertainment includes high-flying, spectacular stunts and fun for the whole family. Tickets are $15 ringside and $12 general admission.

For more information, call 760-235-9728 or visit www. vwelive.com

Jan. 20

23rd annual Junior Trout Fishing Derby 7 a.m. to 11 a.m., Sunbeam Lake, Seeley. Hosted by Imperial County Fish & Game and Kiwanis of El Centro.

For more information, call 442-265-1001.

Jan. 20 32

City of Yuma Volksmarch 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Madison Avenue and Second Street, Yuma.

Winter 2018

The information included in the print version of Imperial Valley Alive! is what was available by publication deadline.

Visit our calendar online at www.imperialvalleyalive.com and submit your event information.

Volksmarch 2018 is a walking 5K. On-site registration, 8 a.m. March begins at 9 a.m. Cost is $6; children 12 and under are free. Register online at yumaaz.gov/events or onsite.

Jan. 20

Heber Tamale Festival 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tito Huerta Park, Heber Presented by Wasupwu Productions; festival includes performances by Hidalgo Folklorico, a stilt walker, fire performance, tamale contest, jalapeno-eating contest and more. For information, call 760-460-6088 or 760554-2380.

Jan. 20

Imperial Market Day January Jam 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., downtown Imperial.

Cornhole tournament series at every Market Day. Space is limited. $40 entry per team of two. Cornhole starts at 3 p.m.

For more information, contact Ember Haller, director of Community Services, at 760-355-3316 or by email at ehaller@cityofimperial.org

Jan. 23

New Shanghai Circus 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., Yuma Art Center, 254 S. Main St., Yuma.

Company of 25 represents some of the finest gymnasts and acrobats from China, including many who have medaled in national competitions. Doors open at 6:30

p.m. Tickets are $25 each. For more information, call 928-373-5202.

Jan. 25

Scottish Burns Supper 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Yuma Civic Center, 1440 W. Desert Hills Drive, Yuma.

Robert Burns is widely regarded as the national poet of Scotland and is celebrated worldwide. Join the Yuma Civic Center with a traditional “Burns Supper,” a customary four-course Scottish feast, a “Toast to the Lassies” with “the water of life” (Scotch whiskey), excerpt readings of Burns’ poetry. A presentation by the Yuma United Firefighters Pipes & Drums Ensemble will fill the evening’s festivities. Ages 21 and up. Tickets are: single, $35; couple, $65; table of eight, $225. Seating is limited. Tickets available at yumashowtickets.com

Jan. 25

Brawley Chamber January Mixer 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., Ricochet Rec Center, 450 W. Aten Road, Imperial.

Monthly business networking opportunity with food and raffle prizes.

Jan. 26-28

Anderson's Americana Indian Art & Jewelry Show 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Jan. 26, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Jan. 27, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Jan. 28, Yuma Civic Center, 1440 W. Desert Hills Drive, Yuma.

Gold and silver jewelry with more than 200 pieces of Southwestern Indian pottery, Hopi Kachinas, Navajo rugs, art, sandpaintings, Eskimo arts and crafts and more await the avid shopper.

Jan. 26 and 27

Lupepalooza Chuckfest 6 p.m. to midnight Jan. 26 and 27, Pentagonal Brewing Company 115 N. Imperial Ave., Imperial.

This is a two-day charity music festival showcasing diverse talented people within the Imperial Valley.

The event is organized by Friends of Kegger. I.V. Music Collective is a group dedicated to promoting local talent. The event will be hosted by Pentagonal Brewery.

Tickets are $5. All proceeds of the ticket sales will fund a scholarship for one IVC music student.

Jan. 27

Sixth Annual "CORE 4 Kids¨ Fundraiser 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., Glamis North Hot Springs Resort, 10595 Hot Mineral Spa Road, Niland.

Event is an annual fundraiser in an open OHV area benefiting children’s charities. All off-road vehicles welcome. The area offers a wide variety of hardpack riding terrain, not Glamis sand dunes.

Jan. 27

Medjool Date Festival 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Downtown Yuma.

Enjoy an array of food and drink, live music and demonstrations. For information, call 928-373-5028.

Jan. 27 and 28

IVUSBC Senior Open

All Imperial Valley U.S. Bowling Congress bowlers who are at least 50 years youg (with a current USBC Card) will be eligible to bowl in the tournament. There will be a team event, along with doubles and singles. Entries are available at www.imperialvalleyusbc.com and at StrikeZone IV, 950 N. Imperial Ave., El Centro.

FEBRUARY Feb. 3

Ride the Yuha Desert 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., beginning at Debbie Pittman Softball Fields in El Centro.

This is a charity bike ride from El Centro out into the desert and back with four distances: 11, 20, 46, or 70 miles.

Register at active.com, Finish Line Pro Bike Shop, 556 W. Main St., El Centro, and U.S. Fitness, 147 Main St., Brawley.

Organizers raise money for the Cancer Resource Center of the Desert and their own bicycle refurbishing and giveaway program.

Feb. 3

Pioneer Days 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Pioneers’ Park Museum, 373 E. Aten Road, Imperial.

Hosted by the Imperial County Historical Society, event is free and features sewing and blacksmith demonstrations, tractors of all shapes and sizes, oldtime home appliances, music, food and a jalapeño cookoff.

Feb. 3

Night At The Races 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Stockmen’s Club of Imperial Valley 275 Marjorie Ave., Brawley.

Sponsored by United Way of Imperial County, there will be many prizes with the grand prize being four season passes to the Del Mar thoroughbred race season. To purchase tickets, call United Way at 760355-4900 or stop by its office at 2410 Imperial Business Park Drive, Imperial. Sponsorships available.

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Feb. 3

Discover the Desert - Star Wars Day Noon to 4 p.m., Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area Third annual Discover the Desert—Star Wars Day at the Imperial Sand Dunes highlights many facets of what the desert has to offer. From off-road adventures, history and the big screen, there are new discoveries around each dune.

Free and open to the public. Activities, characters from your favorite Star Wars movies, and exhibits will be available from noon to 4 p.m.

The movie “Stargate” will be shown at dusk. Bring your own chair and blanket as it gets cold in the evening.

There will be free shuttles into the interior of the dunes where filming has taken place. Off-road vehicles may follow. All off-road vehicles must have flags and required safety equipment.

Where to park: Buttercup Ranger Station - 6808 Grays Wells Road, Winterhaven.

Feb. 10

IV Model Railroaders 1:30 p.m., Imperial Valley Research Center Building 10, 4151 Highway 86, Brawley.

Imperial Valley Model Railroaders is open to anyone of any age who is interested in model trains. The group meets the second Saturday of each month. For information, call Joel Shank at 760-801-8300.

Feb. 10

12th annual Air Show Gala 6:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., Naval Air Facility El Centro.

Theme is “Under the Big Top.” Sponsored by the El Centro Area Chamber and Air Show Gala Committee,

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the event is black-tie and includes four-course meal, silent auction and dancing. For information, contact the El Centro Chamber of Commerce.

Feb. 16

Produce Gala & Saladero Contest 6 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., The Imperial Palms Hotel & Resort, 2050 Country Club Drive, Holtville.

Celebrate the Valley’s produce industry with Saladero contest, silent auction, mystery boxes and dancing to a live DJ. All proceeds benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Imperial Valley. Tickets are $50 each. For more information, visit www.bgciv.org

Feb. 16

11th annual Mardi Gras "Bal¨ 7 p.m. to 11:55 p.m., Old Eucalyptus Schoolhouse, 796 W. Evan Hewes Highway, El Centro.

Join the El Centro Regional Medical Center Foundation for the 11th annual Mardi Gras “Bal.” Tickets are $125.

Contact Marty Dineley at 760-996-0080 for available sponsorship opportunities.

Feb. 17

2018 Imperial Valley Apologetics Conference 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Calvary Chapel Christian School, 1923 Austin Road, El Centro.

Tim Barnett of Stand to Reason (International Apologetics Ministry) will discuss “Does God Exist?,” “Are Science and Faith Compatible?” and “Is the New Testament Reliable?”

Admission is free. RSVP via Eventbrite, https://www. eventbrite.com/e/2018-imperial-valley-apologeticsconference-tickets-37768819556?aff=eac2

Feb. 17

Mardi Gras Parade & Street Fair 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., downtown El Centro CA The city of El Centro recreates the world-famous Mardi Gras with a lighted parade and street fair. The traditional themed colors of purple, green, and gold encompass the entire downtown area. Come and enjoy jazz music and New Orleans-style cuisine.

Feb. 24

14th annual Stagecoach Century Time trial riders: 7-7:10 a.m.; all riders, 7:10-10 a.m., 266 W. Imperial Highway, Ocotillo.

Wild West cycling stampede. The out-and-back route maximizes riders’ distance options. Temperature, wind and low humidity can make this “average” difficulty ride more challenging. Ride 26-150 miles. Options include solo, tandem and team chip-timed time trials. Trophies for champions in the men and women overall solo and team time trial. Riders may ride the optional 150-mile extended route, subject to time cut-offs.

To register or for information, www.shadowtour.com/ century_rides/stagecoach.htm

Feb. 24

Imperial Market Days - Tri-Tip Cookoff 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., downtown Imperial.

Cornhole tournament series at every Market Day. Space is limited. $40 entry per team of two. Cornhole starts at 3 p.m.

For more information, contact Ember Haller, director of Community Services, at 760-355-3316 or by email at ehaller@cityofimperial.org

MARCH

March 2-11

California Mid-Winter Fair & Fiesta Noon to 10 p.m. March 2 Noon to 10 p.m. March 3 Noon to 10 p.m. March 4 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. March 5-9 Noon to 10 p.m. March 10 Noon to 10 p.m. March 11 Presale tickets are: $6 for ages 13-59, $4 for ages 6-12; $5 for seniors ages 60 and above.

Imperial Valley Expo, 200 E. 2nd St., Imperial. 760-355-1181; www. californiamidwinterfair.com

March 10

IV Model Railroaders 1:30 p.m., Imperial Valley Research Center Building 10, 4151 Highway 86, Brawley.

Imperial Valley Model Railroaders is open to anyone of any age who is interested in model trains. The group meets the second Saturday of each month. For information, call Joel Shank at 760-801-8300.

March 17

Imperial Market Days - St. Patrick's Classic 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., downtown Imperial.

Cornhole tournament series at every Market Day. Space is limited. $40 entry per team of two. Cornhole starts at 3 p.m.

For more information, contact Ember Haller, director of Community Services, at 760355-3316 or by email at ehaller@cityofimperial.org

March 18

NAF El Centro Air Show 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., NAF El Centro. General admission and parking are free. Event is open to the public. ďƒŞ Winter 2018

35

FOCUS |

Photos Pics

Nature shots provided by some of our readers

Pelicans at Imperial Wetlands off Weinert On Kershaw Road east of Superior Cattle.

A bighorn ram climbs rocks in eastern Road west of Imperial -Provided by Russell Fischer Imperial County.

-Provided by Charlie Nichols -Provided by Russell Fischer

Imperial Valley sunset.

On Kershaw Road east of Superior Cattle.

A tarantula, north of Mammoth Wash on -Provided by Jessie Gutierrez -Provided by Russell Fischer the north end of the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreational Area.

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Winter 2018

Winter 2018

37

VIA IMPERIAL VALLEY |

Authors & Books "Ancient Wisdom for Modern Enlightenment¨

Author Jayson Barniske is a Brawley native who has written his first book.

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Winter 2018

"Ancient Wisdom for Modern Enlightenment" ponders the question of why in a world where money and material things are idolized do many find unhappiness, despair Barniske and a deep yearning for a better way. Author Jayson Barniske’s book charts a spiritual course toward finding enlightenment, understanding and contentment drawing on the wisdom of religious and spiritual practices from throughout the ages and traditions. The book offers practical methods of turning obstacles into opportunity by using ancient spiritual wisdom to find purpose and meaning in contemporary life.

They came, they saw, they wrote

The book covers how to live spiritually in contemporary society, basic yoga philosophy, and the concept of modern enlightenment.

It is available in both print and digital book format at www.amazon.com; www.barnesandnobel.com and www. ancientwisdomformodernenlightenment. com.

The book also can be purchased locally at Om Connection Yoga at 280 Avenue Campillo Suite N in Calexico, Desert Yoga and Wellness at 690 Broadway Suite 4 in El Centro and Vision Care Center at 260 Main St. in Brawley.

About the author

Brawley native Jayson Barniske wrote his first book on the journey to define his life’s purpose. Following his introduction to yoga as a young adult, curiosity led to the intense study of both the physical practice

of Ashtanga Yoga and the philosophy of yoga. He completed two series of teacher certification training from Tim Miller in San Diego. And he has studied with Shiv Tantric meditation master Yogi Shivraj. In 2010, Barniske opened The Power of Yoga studio in Brawley and taught there until moving to San Diego.

He continues to teach and hold workshops at the yoga studios in the Valley on a monthly basis.

"That Bloody Hill: Hilliard's Legion at Chickamauga¨

"That Bloody Hill: Hilliard’s Legion at Chickamauga" tracks the path of Hilliard’s Legion, a Confederate outfit of primarily Alabama soldiers, in Brigadier General Archibald Gracie’s brigade through Elder the Civil War battle of Chickamauga, Sept. 18-20, 1863. Gracie’s brigade is traditionally credited with forcing Union defenders off the face of Horseshoe Ridge at the end of the battle before running out of ammunition and retreating. Using

sources ignored by other researchers, Lee Elder’s book proves Gracie’s men forced the determined defenders away from their positions and then remained on the ridge for the remainder of the night. The book shows for the first time that members of the legion were part of the force that concluded the battle with the capture of the final Union defenders atop the ridge. The book follows the legion’s survivors to their surrender at Appomattox, corrects an error in a Medal of Honor citation and finds a member of Hilliard’s Legion at resting at the Arlington National Cemetery. It is published by McFarland & Company Inc. and is available at www.mcfarlandbooks.com, www. barnesandnoble.com and www.amazon. com.

About the Author

Lee Elder, former sports editor of the Imperial Valley Press and sportscaster at Brawley’s KROP radio, has worked in the auto racing industry for 23 years. Elder and his wife of 31 years, Amy, now live in Tallmadge, Ohio, where Lee Elder is working on his next project, a biography of football coach George Allen. The Elders have two grown children, Sean and Regan. 

L ee Elder is former sports editor of the Imperial Valley Press and a former sportscaster at Brawley's KROP radio.

Winter 2018

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TAKE A HIKE CONTINUED FROM | PAGE 7

From left, Dan Hilburn of Brawley, Karen Love of El Centro, Jeanne Nelson of Boulevard and hike leader Bill Pape of Jacumba join Jacumba Hikers on a trek through the west desert in early December.

– Photo by Kevin Marty

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Winter 2018

group’s bi-monthly schedule posted on its Facebook page.

“For newcomers, start with an easy or moderate hike and see how you do,” said Rood. “We’re pretty user-friendly. We make sure everyone makes it back.”

The effort is well worth it. Hikers often discover endless views, beautiful places and interesting cultural sites, Pape said.

“Some places are so barren you can see the different layers of the earth, the way they were laid down,” he said. “This is an interesting place to just go out and take a walk. One of the beauties of the desert is you can walk any direction you want to go. You can go to a peak and find springs, palm groves, lots of vegetation.”

“Sometimes you see mountain sheep, rattlesnakes, an oasis with trickling water,” said Rood. “Sometimes streams are running (on mountain hikes), even when it’s pretty dry. I get excited when we find a new trail to get somewhere familiar more easily.”

Rood’s favorite hikes are in the Coyote Mountains north of Ocotillo.

“The geology of them fascinates even a lay person,” he said. “So much of the ancient seabed is pushed up, it makes the hike even better. The views are incredible, across the desert to the Salton Sea.” Valley native Karen Love sees

connections to the Valley’s past on many of the hikes.

“When I see morteros (Indian grinding stones), I think about the native women sitting and grinding corn or nuts,” she said. “Were they gossiping, squabbling, laughing, or talking with pride about their husbands and children?”

But it’s the friendliness of the group that Love most appreciates.

“They take you right in,” Love said.

“People have a common interest. Hike leaders and members readily share knowledge and information about trails and sites.”

Pape described the hikes as “a social event” that offer physical, mental and emotional stimulation.

While many members have compelling reasons for joining the group, Love’s may be the most poignant. She first learned about Jacumba Hikers a few years earlier while visiting the Desert Museum with her late husband, Dale.

“Although Dale supported all my endeavors, that wasn’t one of his interests and I didn’t get around to it. When he passed away, it was a real wakeup call.

You just should not wait for doing things you’d like to do. So I looked up the group and the rest is, as you say, history.” 

NATIVE TRAILS CONTINUED FROM | PAGE 9

times larger than the present Salton Sea and 100 miles long. Trails connected the mountains to the lake. Trails also connected to special places.

Anyone who has taken a Jeep ride on Bureau of Land Management-marked routes through the Yuha Desert knows it is crisscrossed by trails of all kinds.

Imperial Valley’s deserts are covered by a deep desert pavement. A mark left on the surface will stay nearly forever.

Cutting across the Yuha are tank tracks left by Patton’s 3rd Army during training, countless motorcycle tracks, and an occasional Indian trail.

The Yuha also contains several geoglyphs. These large works of earthen art dot the Valley’s landscape in several areas. Constructed over the last 3,000 years, the geoglyphs mark the presence of the Kumeyaay. At one time, trails connected the geoglyphs.

Today, remnants of this ancient system of connections across the landscape can only be seen at the sites themselves – many parts of the trails have disappeared to erosion and development.

The Blythe Giants located about 15 miles north of downtown Blythe, just west of U.S. Highway 95 near the Colorado River, are the most famous of the

The intricate network of Native American trails from the mountains to the Salton Sea are illustrated on a map. -Provided Courtesy of Imperial Valley Desert Museum geoglyphs. The figures, also called “intaglios,” vary in form, style and size.

The largest figure in the Blythe area is more than 165 feet long. Like many geoglyphs, the Blythe Giants are made through the removal of a surface layer of darkened rock, exposing a lighter soil underneath.

These geoglyphs are on Bureau of Land Management land and fall under federal protection. Visitors will find a graded dirt road going to a mesa where two fenced

areas contain a man and four-legged animal with what appears to be a snake at its feet.

So, much like 9,000 years ago, we are still making trails. And we are still traveling to special places. The desert is a special place, with many significant sites and features. If you visit, please be respectful.

Take only pictures. Leave only footprints.

In fact, try not to leave footprints. They stay around for a long time! 

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ARC STRIKEZONE CONTINUED FROM | PAGE 11

With a new façade and other improvements, StrikeZone offers an array of sports and activities. -Provided by ARC El Centro facility. And, it runs a commercial kitchen at its center that provides food services to the U.S. Immigration and Customs (ICE) detention facility. While ARC’s staff includes a trained chef, its clients, under supervision, do much of the prep, cleanup and serving. The aroma wafting from ARC’s kitchen on any given day is convincing evidence of the program’s culinary success.

So when ARC’s Program Director Alex King suggested opening a pizzeria, Santos’ first thought wasn’t about the pepperoni or the sauce; he was intrigued with the idea of

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creating more jobs.

After a lengthy period of experimentation, they hit on the perfect formula.

The first Mozzarelli Pizza & Gelato opened in the Vons Shopping Center in El Centro in 2014.

Santos said the secret to the pizza’s success is the highquality flour used to make it.

A lot of happy customers agree.

In a review on Yelp, Danny V. of El Centro wrote, “This is THE PLACE for true authentic tastes of Italy in the Valley … the pizzas all contain perfectly proportioned layers of flavor that are best explained by your taste buds.”

And Julie B. of San Diego wrote, “They’re amazing. Such a little gem for the Valley.”

Curiously, pizza success propelled ARC Imperial Valley onto the path of adding the bowling alley to its business portfolio.

El Centro Investments LLC, a group of local businessmen led

by Martin Coyne, was poised to reopen the bowling alley. The investors group proposed ARC open a Mozzarelli at the bowling alley.

“The selling point for us was the amount of labor the bowling alley would need,” Santos said. “So we negotiated to buy it. It is the biggest investment the agency ever made.”

The investment is just another way that ARC Imperial Valley can help realize the dreams of many.

“We’re providing jobs and services that benefit the community,” Santos said. “We’re investing in the Valley and working to be so integrated in the community that we are not noticeable.”

And, for some, ARC’s opening of StrikeZone may help realize that hard-to-reach dream of bowling a perfect game. 

GEMS & MINERALS CONTINUED FROM | PAGE 13

found in the Valley. In various areas throughout the Valley, rock hounds have found silver, copper and magnesium and other colorful, semiprecious gemstones, such as kyanite, a blue, somewhat translucent mineral; tourmaline, which is often black but can range in color from red, to yellow and everything between; and fire agate, which reflects iridescent fiery hues.

And there is so much more in the Valley thanks to its exceptionally dynamic geological origins. In addition to being seismically and volcanically active, the region was submerged under Lake Cahuilla for eons. Rock hounds frequently find obsidian, petrified wood, fossils of clams and oysters. And there are sand spikes, which are strange mineral shapes formed in sedimentary rock in certain areas, including the Imperial Valley.

“Each one of these rocks is God’s thumbprint on this Earth,” Pyle said. “We can paint pictures on canvas, but God can paint a picture inside of a rock. To me that is pretty amazing.”

As much as club members relish hunting for gems and minerals, they also enjoy sharing their knowledge.

Rodrigues gives presentations at schools and to local groups, and the club building is open for school field trips.

“If you have a little interest in it, the club is a place that is full of resources,” Pyle said. “There are so many people in the club with knowledge to share.”

And, he added, “Like any group, it gets to be like a family.”

Rodrigues and Pyle said they are pleased that many young people have joined the club.

“It tells me that we are going to keep going,” Pyle said. “Someone will fill in for us when we are gone.”

The two said the club works to inspire young people interested in an education in the earth sciences by offering annual scholarships to high school students.

John Pyle (left), president of Imperial Valley Gem and Mineral Society, and Joe Rodrigues, secretary and outreach coordinator are shown with some of the displays in the Society's building at the Imperial Valley Expo in Imperial. – Photo by Joselito N. Villero The club also pays homage to those who started the organization and had the foresight to get mineral claims for the organization.

“We stand on the shoulders of those who came before us,” Rodrigues said.

Most of all they appreciate the geological treasures the Valley offers.

“Those rocks are the only thing out there older than all of us,” Pyle said. “It gives you that feeling of being in awe.”

More information about the Gem & Mineral Society and its classes in mineral identification, gold panning, and cutting and polishing gemstones is available by calling 760-355-4867. 

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43

DR. BELEN DAVILA CONTINUED FROM | PAGE 30

there, she got experience in psychotherapy, in-patient and outpatient psychiatric care, mental health courts and telemedicine.

“Actually,” Dr. Davila said, “I chose the residency in Arizona because it involved a lot of community psychiatry with underserved populations.”

During her residency she also completed a yearlong certification program in integrative medicine at the University of Arizona. In integrative medicine, the patient and practitioner are viewed as partners in the healing process and all factors affecting health and disease, including body, mind and spirit, are considered in determining the appropriate therapies, which include conventional and alternative methods.

Though she always wanted to work with underserved populations, Dr. Davila said it was her sister’s experience that persuaded her to come home and join the county Behavioral Health Services staff.

Belinda Davila, who has been with county Behavioral Health Services for 15 years, said, “I am passionate about what we do here.”

And from her first day with the department Dr. Davila said she has been very impressed, both with the range of services available for patients and the caliber of the staff.

“Each service has been a great experience,” she said. “The people here really care and are committed to this community. There is a lot of collaboration, teamwork.”

She also is impressed with the ongoing training Behavioral Health Services provides the staff.

The first day on the job, she said, she attended a workshop on mindfulness and other alternative healing practices.

“And, we have equine therapy and other alternatives, it’s all right up my alley,” she

Expires April 30, 2018

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said.

As a psychiatrist, Dr. Davila can prescribe medications, however, she said that isn’t the only or best approach for a patient.

For instance, she said in cases of mild to moderate depression, several studies find that meditation is as effective as medication.

“I teach my patients that we are a team and they are the boss,” she said. By working together they select the best approach to take.

“My greatest and best teachers have been my patients,” she said, “I learn so much I don’t feel like it’s a job.”

Because she is from the Valley, Dr. Davila said she has a deep understanding of the issues confronting her patients. Her decision to return home does even more: It keeps alive the age-old tradition of giving back to the community. And by her example, she helps empower others to create their futures. 

DEE'S RESCUE CONTINUED FROM | PAGE 19

food make a difference? It may only sustain dogs at the rescue for a matter of days, but it prevents a gap in this life-saving chapter for them.

How can cleaning out litter pans make a difference? They will have to be cleaned out again soon but it allows primary workers like Forbey to manage the books or give information to adoptive families or rest for a few moments. Sometimes, the smallest gears have the greatest leverage.

No matter how you’d like to help, Dee’s Rescue can be reached at 760-554-6305 or by visiting the facility at 941 W. Evan Hewes Highway in El Centro. It’s right before Forrester Road on the way to Naval Air Facility El Centro; look for the banners outside. Staff from Dee’s Rescue can also be found every Sunday at adoption events at Petco in El Centro.

No matter how you help, the reward may be far greater than you think. It’s not just the animals who benefit, Forbey said.

“I believe that a pet, an animal, is good for people to have around,” she said. “It makes joy in your life. There are certain people that don’t like animals but that’s their loss because the animals create joy.”

Today, the therapeutic benefit of pets is being recognized in work with autistic children, in bringing smiles to people in nursing homes and in offering comfort to patients in hospitals.

“It teaches (children) compassion. It teaches them a job to do, that you have to be ‘up,’ you have to take care of this animal,” Forbey said. "It teaches them to take care of people. … Start them when they’re young, then they’ll learn how to treat people, I believe.ʺ She added, “ If you (are) kind to animals you’re going to be kind to people.” 

ABOVE: A dog lover reaches into the pen to greet a dog up for adoption at a Dee's Rescue adoption Event at Tractor Supply in El Centro.

RIGHT: Dee Forbey makes sure the pups have enough water. – Photos by Sarah Malan

For more information call 760-693-5330 Winter 2018

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THERAPY DOGS CONTINUED FROM | PAGE 25

TOP: Oscar Romero pets Tiaki at El Centro Regional Medical Center in El Centro.

BOTTOM PHOTO: Romero enjoys a visit by Goldie.

– Photos by Joselito N. Villero

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betray her keen obedience. Even in a brief walk with Burk, she seemed to anticipate his movements and meekly lay down during Burk’s interview, seemingly knowing that when her services are not needed she is free to engage in a dog’s favorite leisure-time activity.

“When the collar goes on, she knows she is at work. But at home she’s playful,” Burk admitted.

Asked if there is a secret to being an effective dog trainer — and having such an irretractable bond with his dogs, Burk explained, “A lot of patience. You have to be a people person. It’s not the dogs that need the training, it’s the owners. I love working with people.”

He made a point of drawing the distinction between what therapy dogs do and the often more well-known — and equally important — vocation of service dogs that assist people with disabilities, including the blind.

“They train (service) dogs if you can’t pick up your items or turn lights off and on. They can learn 187 different commands. A therapy dog is not a service dog. They do not have the same access rights,” he said.

Goldie is certified as a therapy dog through Therapy Dog International. She and Burk visit patients most Thursdays at El Centro Regional Medical Center, where patient relations and guest manager Billi Jo Achurra said the duo have been a welcome addition to the care team.

“It’s just unbelievable. It lowers the anxiety level of patients, lowers their blood pressure. It brings a home feeling when people don’t feel well,” Achurra explained.

Visits from a therapy dog are part of the hospital’s efforts to improve patient outcomes, she noted, though the benefits have turned out to be a bit broader than expected.

“It brings a huge amount of relief to the staff as well,” Achurra said.

Burk said he is never surprised by the results his dogs achieve and revealed it all starts with one thing.

“I call myself a relationship counselor. The stronger your bond is with your dog, the easier it is to train. The more you work with them, after a while, as soon as we started heading to a room, (she goes in),” Burk said.

Continuing to sleep quietly as Burk sang her praises, Goldie didn’t react to her name being said. Her time to make peoples’ lives brighter would come soon enough, but for the time being she was content to just be a regular dog. 

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