Fall 2021
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Fall 2021
Publishers' Message The calendar shows we are heading into fall, but in many ways, we in the Imperial Valley are emerging into our spring. In other parts of our nation, spring heralds the return of pleasant weather and all the things that come with that. For many, that means opening doors to enjoy what their communities have to off er. It means regeneration in the plant world, the time when vegetables, fl owers and trees fl ourish under milder temperatures and our friends and family share in the bounty our gardens deliver. Here in the Imperial Valley, that kind of magic happens in fall, when months of triple-digit, sweltering temperatures give way to the balmy days that are the envy of many in cooler climes who are slogging through such tasks as installing storm windows, raking leaves and preparing to shovel snow. But this year, fall, our functional spring, is being greeted with even more than the usual thrill bestowed upon a seasonal change. After 20 months of mandates, masks and endless COVID-19 confusion and restrictions, we are reemerging to much more than nicer weather. We are reemerging from the gray gloom of pandemic-induced isolation to revel once
`Spring' into the season
more in the unique joys of the Imperial Valley community. People -- some more slowly than others -- are returning to work. The sounds of the school band practicing early on weekday mornings fi ll the air. Buses deliver children to schools. Businesses that survived the pandemic are reopened or will be soon, and new ones have debuted. Restaurants are fi lling up. And some of the things we took for granted, only to sorely miss during the pandemic, are happening or are on the horizon. After three calendar-free issues of Imperial Valley Alive! magazine, this fall 2021 edition is bursting at the seams with details of fun community events that lie ahead, things like the Cattle Call Rodeo performances with all the pageantry, entertainment and contests that add zest to this special time of year. This edition takes a look at the many reasons there are to rejoice at the reemergence of the stuff that makes the Imperial Valley special. On these pages, you will fi nd out why this is a great time to pause and savor the beauty, harmony and down-home fun of local arts, culture and music. For instance, you can slide into a
smooth read about the thriving local craft beer culture. Or read a feature about mariachi music that is woven into our local culture. Or pause to refl ect on a massive mural painted by recent SDSU Imperial Valley Education Credential graduates and unveiled at a recent, public art show gala that celebrates the beauty of linguistic and cultural appreciation. This magazine also focuses on our veterans, specifi cally Reps 4 Vets, a group that helps our men and women who are struggling with the aftermath of their tours of duty. Also, join us on a photographic tour of the somber memorials that stand throughout our communities to pay homage to those who have served so that we have the freedoms we rejoice in today. Things are far from perfect. A choked-up supply chain means our favorite sandwich may minus a thing or two, and that delivery that once took a couple of days has been delayed a bit (or more) longer. Gas prices keep climbing, and our dollars don’t go as far as they once did. But there’s still hope on the horizon. And now there is excitement in the air. And festivities in the offi ng. And recreational opportunities around every bend. In the Imperial Valley, everything we see adds up to just one thing. Fall, our de facto spring, has arrived. Join us as we spring into the season!
From left are Bill Gay, Sue Gay, Heidi Gutierrez, Peggy Dale, Susan Giller, Alejandra Noriega and Bill Amidon. - Photo by Charla Teeters-Stewart Fall 2021
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INDEX |
Volume 6, Number 1 EDITORS & PUBLISHERS Bill Gay Sue Gay Susan Giller Peggy Dale Bill Amidon
CONTRIBUTORS
Antoine Abou-Diwan Heidi Gutierrez Darren Simon Roman Flores
COVER PHOTO Joselito N. Villero
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Joselito Villero Charla Teeters-Stewart Mickey Dale Peggy Dale Heidi Gutierrez
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Alejandra Noriega
WEB DESIGNERS Jesus Uriarte Sergio Uriarte
SALES
Bill Amidon Heidi Gutierrez John Lovecchio
ADVERTISING
HONOR |
eterans turning to Reps 4 Vets V for help, Page 6 alley’s memorials pay tribute to V those who served, Page 16
FLOURISH |
rowing craft beer industry G explored, Page 8
SUBSCRIPTIONS
Reliance Public Relations, Inc. P.O. Box 1944 • El Centro, CA 92244
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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inning mural celebrates W language, cultural acceptance,
Page 10
PERFORM |
ariachi program on the horizon M at IVC, Page 12
NOURISH |
Explore dining options, Pages
20-22
bill.amidon@reliancepr.com 760-693-5330 Send name, address and email address along with $20.00 (plus tax) for annual subscription to:
ASSERT |
COVER PHOTO: Ricky Contreras, who served in the U.S. Army from 1992 to 2018, works out at 4:13 Fitness Center as part of the Reps 4 Vets program. - Photo by Joselito N. Villero
INSIDE | Explore Erosion Road, Page 14 Pinning helps track sheep migration,
Pages 18-19
Mental health summit, Pages 24-25 Calendar, Pages 28-30 Breast Cancer Awareness, Page 38-39
Members of Mariachi Aurora perform in Calipatria earlier this year. - Photo provided by Roman Flores
Ernie Quintero, entrepreneur and business owner, shows a glass of craft beer at Mexca Brew Co. on Main Street in El Centro. . - Photo by Joselito N. Villero
Fall 2021
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HONOR |
Justin Pirrie, Chief Operating Officer of Reps 4 Vets, leg presses 1,620 pounds at 4:13 Fitness Center in Imperial. Assisting Pirrie are (from left) Ricky Contreras, Emmanuel Lopez and Brendon Brown. - Photo by Joselito N. Villero
Reps 4 Vets
Valley's veterans get help coping with mental health, substance use
By Darren Simon
6
After spending eight years in the military proudly serving his country, and after a medical discharge with a heart ailment, Brendon Brown found himself in a dark place as post-traumatic stress disorder took a toll. Even though he had discovered his faith and had already taken steps to rebuild his health and his life, which included relocating to the Imperial Valley, the dark moments were hard to shake. He began questioning whether he wanted to go on living. Then came a moment in February 2020 when a fellow vet asked him a question one evening at church, a night Brown Fall 2021
intended to end his life. “What are you doing tomorrow?” asked the vet. That simple question led Brown to rethink his course, and he found the will to face the next day. In doing so, not only did he save his own life, but over the next week, he helped two other vets who were also on the brink. Born from those events was a program to help Imperial Valley veterans suffering from similar issues. Relying on his certification as a personal trainer, and with the support of the 4:13 Fitness Center, Brown founded Reps 4 Vets. It is a program that provides vets dealing with mental health and substance abuse issues with an outlet through exercise and camaraderie.
“Whatever they are dealing with, they don’t have to deal with it alone,” said the 33-year-old Brown. “We need to surround ourselves with the right people who can understand us and relate to us, so all they have to do is reach out.” According to statistics released by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs in 2013, as many as 22 veterans take their own lives each day. Brown’s goal is to bring awareness to that horrible statistic and help save lives through Reps 4 Vets. Launched in March 2020 — but delayed by COVID-19 — the program offers veterans in need of support a free personal training program over 12-weeks (36 hourlong sessions) at 4:13 Fitness, which is based in Imperial but also has a gym at the Imperial Valley Mall. While in the program, Reps 4 Vets also covers each participant’s gym membership costs. As part of that training, participating veterans also receive life coaching support and have a chance to open up to fellow veterans about their struggles in secular and faith-based support groups.
To qualify, a veteran must have documentation of his or her service and documentation of a mental health diagnosis from the Veterans Administration. If struggling with substance abuse (rather than a mental health diagnosis), a veteran can still qualify for the program by submitting a short video about why the program could help. Also, combat veterans with documentation of their time in service can qualify for the program even without a mental health diagnosis or substance abuse issue. “This would be our gift to them for their service,” Brown said. Reps 4 Vets, which has offi cial standing as a non-profi t veterans’ service organization, exists because of the willingness of Brown, who is the lead trainer and chief executive offi cer of the program and the Reps 4 Vets Foundation, to volunteer himself full time to the training. He is supported by fellow veteran Justin Pirrie, of the British Army and Royal Air Force, who volunteers as the foundation’s chief operating offi cer. He handles the business side while Brown leads the training. When Pirrie, 38, moved to the Valley
Brendon Brown, CEO and founder of Reps 4 Vets, assists Emmanuel Lopez at 4:13 Fitness Center. - Photo by Joselito N. Villero after serving 18 years in the British armed forces — which included deployments as part of the global war on terror — he was looking for the camaraderie he experienced in the military. After learning of the Reps 4 Vets program, he met with Brown and decided to help. “I felt a real kinship with him,” said the Crewe, Cheshire, England, native. He
moved to the Valley in 2018 to build a life here with his wife, Lizbeth, a teacher at Brawley Union High School, whom he met while on a training deployment at Naval Air Facility El Centro. Of his work with the program, Pirrie, who fi nished his military service with the rank of chief, said: “It means everything to CONTINUED | PAGE 34
Fall 2021
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FLOURISH |
Julio Morales pours a mixture of rice hulls and malted oats into a tank at Mexca Brew Co. on Main Street in El Centro. - Photo by Joselito N. Villero
Craft
beer
Growth is hopping in Imperial Valley
By Antoine Abou-Diwan
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Julio Morales had some reservations about moving to the Imperial Valley for a job with the Imperial Valley Press in November 2010. The Simi Valley native was familiar with the area. He knew its history and looked forward to sharing what he learned with his readers. “When I came out here I wasn’t so much worried about the heat. I knew it was a rural area, and that it didn’t have all of the amenities,” he said in an interview with Imperial Valley Alive! “My biggest concern was beer. What was I going to find out here?” Morales had developed a taste for craft brews, and he wasn’t about to trade those bold hops profiles and bitterness of India pale ales or the roasted maltiness of stouts for the comparatively bland and watery mass-produced stuff. “I would always party with beers on the weekend,” Morales said. “When the craft scene started getting around, I started seeing more and more of that. I have one younger brother who was ahead of the game, and he was buying stouts, Belgians, IPAs. At first it was an acquired taste. I was pretty stoked to find all these styles of beer.” Those styles of beer were commonly available at supermarkets and bars across California back then. But they were virtually Fall 2021
Sal Moreno and Eric Strahm prepare mash for the next batch of their Highline Stout at Humble Farmer. - Photo by Charla Teeters-Stewart impossible to find in the Imperial Valley.
Some history
The first commercial brewery in the United States was built in Lower Manhattan by the Dutch West India Company in 1632. British-style ales dominated American brewing until the middle of the 19th century, when German immigrants introduced lager styles, which had longer shelf lives and were more profitable for large-scale brewing. By 1915 there were more than 1,300 breweries according to the United States Brewers Association. But the 18th Amendment killed most of them. Prohibition, which
went into eff ect in January 1920, banned alcohol. Breweries had to adapt or die. Fewer than 100 survived. The larger brewing families, like Pabst, Miller and Busch, survived by making non-alcoholic beverages and “near beer,” which had less than 0.5 percent alcohol content. As Prohibition eased, those eff orts expanded to include beer with up to 3.2 percent alcohol content. When Prohibition was repealed 13 long years later, beer enthusiasts had mostly bland, easy-to-drink lagers to choose from. Fortunately, some enterprising souls took matters into their own hands. California’s fi rst craft brewery, Anchor Brewing Co. opened its doors in San Francisco in 1965. Many commercial craft brewers visited Anchor to learn the trade. Imbibers took note, and by 2000 the number of breweries in the U.S. exploded. But in the Imperial Valley, craft beer was slow to catch on. Morales would often drive to nearby Yuma to stock up on craft beer. But, little by little, selection improved in Imperial Valley. “One day I was walking by on Fifth (Street), I saw that the skate shop (Cheap Tricks) had a sticker for homebrewers supplies. I opened the door, popped my head in but I didn’t see anything. Next door, there was a bell that alerted Ernie, and he told me that was the previous owner.” Ernie Quintero owned the skate shop, and was working to open Strangers Bar next door, which it did in July 2012. By then, craft beer was beginning to make inroads in the Valley. Dogwood Sports Bar and Grill served craft beer, and El Centro Liquor on 4th Street had a good selection.
Jose Luis Yepez, owner of Calexico Brewing Co., dispenses a glass of Mexican lager at the Calexico company. - Photo by Joselito N. Villero But Strangers Bar went all in on craft beer.
Strangers Bar
“When Strangers opened up in 2012, it was intended to be a craft beer bar,” Quintero said. “We were the fi rst to fully embrace craft and made it a point to only serve craft beer.” Hop-heavy brews like Dale’s Pale Ale and Ballast Point’s Grapefruit Sculpin IPA were a natural fi t for the laid back vibes and independent musicians that he showcased and promoted. And for many of Strangers’ patrons, Ernie was a craft brew evangelist. “His bar was the fi rst place I tasted IPAs,” said Daniel Hughes, proprietor of Saltcedar BBQ. “Now you go to any bar and you can
order a craft brew, an IPA, a sour. But at that time no one was doing that.” But it’s one thing to be able to buy craft beer brewed across the United States. It’s another to be able to buy craft beer brewed by one’s friends and neighbors in the Imperial Valley.
Humble Farmer Brewing Co.
Eric Strahm, founder and co-owner of Imperial Valley’s fi rst craft brewery, Humble Farmer Brewing Co., started home-brewing when he was in school. He had given his father a homebrew kit for Father’s Day, and they brewed some batches together. CONTINUED | PAGE 31
Fall 2021
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ASSERT |
SDSU Imperial Valley interim CAO and Dean Mark Wheeler stands before an award-winning mural painted by three recent graduates that decries discrimination during a September art show opening in the Steppling Gallery. - Photo courtesy of SDSU Imperial Valley
Winning Mural
By Susan Giller
10
Despite the challenges of COVID restrictions – and graduation from the SDSU Imperial Valley Educational Credential program in May – three recent graduates worked quietly and steadily over the summer to complete a mural that speaks from their hearts and evokes contemplation about the importance of language and cultural identity. The massive three-panel artwork went on public display for the first time in September as part of an art show opening held in the SDSU Imperial Valley Steppling Art Gallery. The larger-than-life work was painted by Sergio Ojeda, Samantha Ramirez and Alma R. Medina Santiago. Fall 2021
her language and cultural identity are set free and celebrated. The mural is embellished with iconic cultural Celebrates language, designs, an image of the late Gloria cultural acceptance E. Anzaldúa's book, "Borderlands/La Frontera: The New Mestiza," as well as quotes from her tortuous prose delving into the challenges of life in the Their mural derides educational discrimination and makes a passionate borderlands and the pain inflicted by language suppression. statement about the importance of "I really want the mural to spark language and cultural acceptance conversation," Ojeda said. "People may in education. The title of the mural be curious or confused. The important is "The Struggle for a Bilingual thing is to have communications." Education." Based on the buzz at the art show, The vibrant painting presents two the mural more than met the goal. images of a young woman. In the first Ojeda, Ramirez and Medina's soulful somber scene she is bound, silenced mural now graces the SDSU Imperial and oppressed under California's Valley campus because their design "English Only" educational policy for "Limited English Proficiency" students was one of five to win in a universityimposed by the 1998 passage of Prop. wide Social Justice Mural Competition held earlier in the year by the SDSU 227. California reintroduced Bilingual Division of Student Affairs and Campus Education with the 2016 passage of Diversity, the School of Art and Design, Prop. 58. and Arts Alive SDSU. The competition In the second scene of the mural, sought works of art to "foster and the young woman's colorful sense of self glows in an environment in which sustain an environment where all
students, faculty, staff , and alumni feel welcomed, supported and valued by the university." Although they had already completed their education, Ojeda, Ramirez and Medina felt compelled to bring their mural to life to honor Anzaldúa and others whose work and writings brought clarity and compassion to an issue they know all too well. Each has lived the frustration, confusion and isolation of growing up in the Borderland of Calexico and Mexicali. "It wasn't until I was an undergrad," Ramirez said, "that I started reading about language liberation and I started to understand the ways in which we had been denied our true authentic selves throughout legitimizing institutions, like schools." As a young child in Mexicali, she spoke only Spanish. She moved to Calexico in fi rst grade. She clearly recalls an abrupt change because her mother, who is an educator, wanted her in a "normal class" so she would not fall behind. Medina said she moved to Calexico from Mexicali when she was 12,
From top, mural artists Sergio Ojeda, Samantha Ramirez and Alma R. Medina Santiago discuss the design of the mural they were about to paint during an online interview conducted in May. -Photos by Susan Giller speaking little English. "That is when I felt the pressure to learn the language," she said. "Sometimes it was hard to balance the languages and the culture. Sometimes I would feel judgment from both sides." Despite the childhood Borderland educational hurdles they endured, all three are eager to be teachers. Ojeda and Ramirez earned credentials to teach science. Medina earned her credential to teach math. It was during their SDSU Imperial Valley Education Credential courses that the three realized they could use their childhood Borderland experiences and their newfound understanding about the importance of linguistic and cultural acceptance and appreciation to help improve the world CONTINUED | PAGE 26
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PERFORM |
Mariachi Garibaldi performs at Southwest High School. - Photo courtesy of Roman Flores
Mariachi
program
By Roman Flores
12
Conversations regarding revitalization or creation of new scholastic mariachi programs are taking shape within Imperial Valley schools, with Imperial Valley College leading the discussion. IVC Dean of Arts, Letters & Learning Services Betsy Lane said the college is working on developing a Mariachi Club to garner interest for an eventual mariachi credit/non-credit course the college would like to offer. She said while the Mariachi Club is forming, the credit/non-credit course is also currently under development. “The timeline for the approval of a course is lengthy” and require approvals to go through the California Community Colleges Chancellor's Office, the California State University and University of California systems for the reviews, revisions, and approval processes, Lane said. But she remains Fall 2021
IVC Mariachi Club is in the works
optimistic and excited about the coming of mariachi to IVC. “We're developing the course initially as a one-unit credit ensemble, (and) there will be a non-credit side just like we do with all of our performing ensembles: Master Chorale, the (Imperial Valley) Symphony Orchestra and (Jimmie Cannon’s) Valley Jazz,” Lane said. Lane said she hopes to have the class officially starting next fall 2022, pending all approvals. “The Mariachi Club here on campus is still (forming) in order to really capture the interest right now of the students who are here,” she said. “Dr. Hope Davis (professor of music at IVC) will be presenting to the board in their November meeting generally about our music programs but also the mariachi.” Davis said the Mariachi Club will be like any other IVC student club in terms of hierarchical structure, with a student
Mariachi Aurora performs in Calipatria. -Photo courtesy of Roman Flores president, vice president, secretary and an IVC faculty advisor. A survey will be sent to all IVC students, to the Imperial Valley community and to other stakeholders to determine the level of interest in mariachi programs at IVC, Davis said. “The vision is for the Mariachi Club
members to perform in our Mariachi Ensembles, spread the word, recruit others and form an ‘Imperial Valley Mariachi,’” she added. The Mariachi Club will be open to all IVC students, faculty, staff, administration, “and all Imperial Valley community adults and upper-class high school students,” according to Davis, with hopes of expanding in the future and possibly broadening the age range. Lane said she'd like IVC to be able to connect with community partners – such as local high schools and San Diego State University, among others. She said the success of IVC’s mariachi endeavor will “rest on the skill set of the students coming in, and yes, we need to develop those skills.” Though connections are still forming between IVC and partners, the college does seem to have a lot of support both in and outside of the Imperial Valley community. Local schools with existing mariachi programs, including Calexico High School and Southwest High School in El Centro, could essentially become
Mariachi Aurora is shown in Calipatria. - Photo courtesy of Roman Flores feeders to IVC’s future mariachi program. Other schools which have had after school mariachi programs in the past (William Moreno Junior High School in Calexico) or are currently looking into restarting their former programs (Kennedy Middle School in El
Centro) said they are also interested in the discussion. Likewise, professionals with successful mariachi programs in the San Diego and Santa Monica areas CONTINUED | PAGE 36
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N
Erosion Road
Story courtesy of Borrego Springs Chamber of Commerce & Visitors' Bureau The 600,000-acre Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is a vast wonderland of nature’s beauty and terrain that dates back millions of years. It also off ers adventure seekers miles and miles of hiking trails and dirt roads that are often comprised of soft sand, large boulders and other hazards. However there’s another way to enjoy this same
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Time Travel Driving Tour
experience from the comfort of your airconditioned vehicle, the driving tour of Erosion Road. Erosion Road is also known as S-22 (Borrego-Salton Sea Way), which runs between Highway 86 and the AnzaBorrego Desert State Park® Visitors Center on Palm Canyon Drive in Borrego Springs. **This 21-mile driving tour has 12 diff erent turn-outs, some with easy signage and parking, and
others with dirt and sandy roads. This hour-long adventure (depending on how often you stop and revel in the jaw-dropping views) will take travelers back in time when the area was covered in grassy marshes, lakes and streams and when sloths, mammoths and sabretoothed cats roamed the land. Many of the turnoff s are easy to fi nd with visible signage; however, mapped-out mileage-markers will help travelers fi nd the not-so-obvious turnoff s all beholding a variety of stunning views of gorges, vistas, canyons, mountains, badlands, and earthquake faults. Sights include Font’s Point, Coyote Mountain, Clark Dry Lake, Borrego Badlands and more. If you’re lucky you might catch a glimpse of the bighorn sheep, mountain lions, coyotes and other animals who call the desert home. However you choose to experience Erosion Road, make sure it’s on your list of the many things to do and see while visiting Borrego Springs. Downloadable maps are off ered on the State Park website parks.ca.gov, or stop by the Borrego Springs Chamber / Welcome Center for an easy to read printed version. **Always check road conditions with the State Park before leaving the paved highway.
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HONOR |
Veterans Memorials Veterans Day is Nov. 11 and Imperial County is home to several memorials paying tribute to our men and women who have served their country. Some of these memorials are shown on these pages.
Brawley's memorial is in the city's downtown. - Photo by Heidi Gutierrez
Calexico's memorial features a waterfall. - Photo courtesy of City of Calexico
The Imperial County Airport is home to Imperial's memorial. - Photo by Peggy Dale
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Fall 2021
Vietnam Memorial Wall
El Centro's Bucklin Park not only is home to this beautiful tribute, but it will be host of the Mobile Vietnam Memorial Wall from Nov. 10-15. - Photo by Mickey Dale
Highlight for Valley
The Mobile Vietnam Memorial Wall, a weeklong eff ort that begins Nov. 8 with volunteers prepping the site at El Centro’s Bucklin Park, is being brought to the Valley by the nonprofi t faith-based veterans organization Point Man Antelope Valley. The wall they are providing is a half-size tribute monument of the Washington, D.C., memorial. The wall arrives in El Centro on Nov. 10 and will be paraded past El Centro schools. A 24/7 guard at the site also will be established that evening, which will run through Nov. 15 when the wall departs. Ceremonies, including those honoring Gold Star families, are scheduled at 11 a.m. when the wall assembly begins. The offi cial ceremonies will begin at 6 p.m. Nov. 10 with remembrance ceremonies by the VFW. The following day, Nov. 11, is Veterans Day and the City of El Centro will have ceremonies at the Wall from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Volunteers are still being sought to help visitors and provide other support. To volunteer, register at https://signup.com/client/invitation2/ secure/857597498030/false#/invitation or scan the QR code on this page.
Fall 2021
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Food
Safety
Produce pinning map adds layer of protection
The Imperial Valley Vegetable Growers Association (IVVGA) recently developed an innovative online Produce Pinning Map to add yet another tool to the food safety “toolbox” local growers can use to further protect produce from possible foodborne illness contamination. The interactive map is intended to keep food safety the top priority by helping all parties keep their foraging animals, such as sheep, from venturing too close and potentially contaminating vegetable crops growing in the Valley. By providing real-time access to the map, produce growers, sheepherders and hay growers can view the location of vegetable fields and work together to ensure food safety requirements are met. The interactive map provides important information to help protect food safety by improving communications and cooperation between agricultural industry sectors. Under the system, produce growers are responsible for pinning their fields with information including the location of the produce fields, specific distance requirements and contact information. With that knowledge, sheepherders are responsible for moving their foraging sheep from one hay field to another in a way that maintains an appropriate distance to protect the safety of the vegetable crop. Typically, the distance that produce buyers consider safe is half a mile or more to prevent
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Fall 2021
the possibility of E.coli contamination. While there is no scientifi c backing for the distance requirements, the goal behind these requirements is to keep consumers safe. And produce growers who cannot maintain the distance may not be able to sell their vegetable crop. The Produce Pinning map allows industry sectors to better communicate to come to an amicable solution. An example of a solution is providing an alternate fi eld for the sheep to graze away from produce fi elds. As long as each sector is communicating with each other, the map is serving its purpose. JP LaBrucherie, president of LaBrucherie Produce, said “The integrated map is an important tool for all produce growers and the sheep industry as it allows both industries to co-exist while maintaining safe distances between produce and sheep.” The word “co-exist” is incredibly important because that is exactly what needs to occur. Every sector of the agricultural industry is equally important, and we all need each other to succeed in the Imperial Valley. According to Robert Lizarraga, a local sheepherder and hay grower, “Our company already had a great relationship with local produce growers well before the pinning. But this map is certainly a tool to help ensure everything goes smoothly.” Lizarraga further explains that the map allows for easier and faster communication among growers, as each pin has the distance requirement and contact information.” Valley produce growers never want to see any case of foodborne illness anywhere. That is why our growers work so hard to protect locally grown produce. Food safety is the key to protecting the local agricultural industry and the economy of the entire Imperial Valley.
- Photo by Peggy Dale
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NOURISH |
Valley's Eateries
Imperial Valley's homegrown restaurants offer lots of tasty choices. Chili's Grill & Bar $$ 3303 S. Dogwood Rd, El Centro, CA 92243 760-352-2116 www.chilis.com
American Food 2GO SALADS $ 210 E. Cole Blvd #5, Calexico, CA 92231 760-618-9120 https://bit.ly/30Jk7LT Applebee's Grill & Bar $$ 2421 Cottonwood Dr, El Centro, CA 92243 760-353-8311 www.applebees.com Applebee's Grill & Bar $$ 2505 Scaroni Ave, Calexico, CA 92231 760-768-1649 www.applebees.com Bites n Brews $$ 775 E. Danenberg Dr, Ste 104, El Centro, CA 92243 760-970-4030 https://bit.ly/3nh4rqP
Broken Yolk Café 3049 N. Imperial Ave., El Centro, CA 92243 760-352-9655 https://bit.ly/35Vk5A9
China Palace Steakhouse $$$ 1075 Adams Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-353-1510 https://bit.ly/2TFOTSy
Brownie’s Diner $$ 990 Main St, Brawley, CA 92227 760-344-2938 https://bit.ly/3cP5Ct7
Denny's $$ 1445 Ocotillo Dr, El Centro, CA 92243 760-352-2576 www.dennys.com
Buckshot Deli & Diner $$ 8120 CA-111, Niland, CA 92257 760-359-0595 https://bit.ly/3jrInbX Buffalo Wild Wings $$ 510 Danenberg Dr, El Centro, CA 92243 760-337-9481 www.buffalowildwings.com
Dogwood Sports Bar & Grill $$ 3603 S. Dogwood Rd, El Centro, CA 92243 760-970-4668 https://bit.ly/2UjlAFL Famous Dave's $$ 3103 S. Dogwood Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-352-9044 https://bit.ly/3iPxIsf Farmer Boys $$ 1532 Cruickshank Dr, El Centro, CA 92243 760-336-0227 www.farmerboys.com
Brickhouse Deli 447 W. Aten Rd, Imperial, CA 92251 760-592-4352 www.bhdeli.co
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Fall 2021
Burgers & Beer 260 N. Imperial Ave., El Centro, CA 92243 760-353-4431 https://bit.ly/3h44J1n
Foster Freeze $ 130 N. 5th St, Brawley, CA 92227 760-344-7566 https://fostersfreeze.com
Locally Owned
$10 & under per person
Beer/Wine only
$20 & under per person
Full Bar
Over $20 per person Sizzler $$ 707 N. Imperial Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-353-3780 http://www.sizzler.com
Habit Burger $ 2335 S. 4th St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-997-7805 www.habitburger.com Hope Café and Creperie $ 605 E 2nd St, Calexico, CA 92231 760-890-5259 https://bit.ly/3zyZAXd
Leroy’s Backyard BBQ 401 Broadway, El Centro, CA 92243 760-675-6546 https://bit.ly/3iLMFLP
Maranatha Steakhouse $$ Hot Rod's & Beer $$ 612 S. J St, Imperial, CA 92251 235 West E 5th St, 760-355-0777 Holtville, CA 92250 https://bit.ly/2ZaBkx2 760-356-9900 https://hotrodsnbeer. Panera Bread $$ com 2321 S. 4th St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-332-6499 Humble Farmer www.panerabread.com Brewing $$ 116 S. Imperial Ave Ste C, Pepper Grind Coffee $ Imperial, CA 92251 1560 Pepper Dr, 760-545-0037 www.humblefarmerbrewing.com El Centro, CA 92243 https://bit.ly/3j3jcxd IHOP $$ 2362 S. 4th St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-352-1100 www.ihop.com Juniors Café $ 1791 Adams Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-353-9556 https://bit.ly/3cP2oG5
Sonora Fusion $$$ 560 W State St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-693-5069 https://bit.ly/3wLozVP The Courtroom Restaurant $$ 841 Main St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-335-3660 https://bit.ly/3gB4wDO
The Original Town Pump Steakhouse 200 W Main St., Westmorland, CA 92281 760-344-3663 https://bit.ly/3wLlvch
Red Feather Off-Road Market & Cafe $ 1182 N. Imperial Hwy, Ocotillo, CA 92259 760-358-7389 https://bit.ly/3vwXwvY Shake & Wake $ 1490 N. Imperial Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 442-283-5100 https://bit.ly/3EalJfZ
Tropical Delights 221 W E St, Brawley, CA 92227 (760) 344-5051 https://bit.ly/3rakIPW
Asian Cuisine Chef Lee's Express $ 1049 N. Imperial Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-693-5555 https://bit.ly/3xx5M0q
RESTAURANT
China Inn Restaurant 461 W Main St, Brawley, CA 92227 760-344-1038 https://bit.ly/3xlMI4W
China Palace Restaurant $$ 1075 Adams Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-353-2798 https://bit.ly/3wFTh2y Exotic Thai Bistro $$ 1461 S. 4th St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-353-0008 https://bit.ly/3q1maDz Fortune Garden $$ 3309 S. Dogwood Rd, El Centro, CA 92243 760-352-9888 https://bit.ly/3iJn6uQ Fortune House $$ 1627 W Main St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-352-3888 https://bit.ly/3vrsZzu Hong Kong $$ 550 Wake Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-970-4497 https://bit.ly/3E4Wdcb
Kotori Japanese Food $$ 300 E Cole Blvd, Calexico, CA 92231 760-768-8540 https://bit.ly/3zHPbZE Lucky Chinese Restaurant $$ 500 S. 4th St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-352-7680 www.luckyrestaurant.com Los Ce-B-Ches $$ 1074 E Coles Blvd Ste 7, Calexico, CA 92231 442-270-1402 https://bit.ly/35ps9sy
CHINESE & HAWAIIAN Mah’s Kitchen 290 N. Imperial Ave., El Centro, CA 92243 760-352-8713 https://bit.ly/3q4OF3w
Peony Pavilion $$ 1505 Main St, Brawley, CA 92227 760-351-9888 https://bit.ly/3iJdGj3 Poke & Noodle Japanese Cuisine $$ 799 E. Danenberg Dr, El Centro, CA 92243 760-337-9208 https://bit.ly/2UccQkB
Teriyaki Headquarters $$ 800 N. Imperial Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-970-4838 https://bit.ly/3vDiBGx Volcano $$ 445 E. Main St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-337-9105 http://volcanoelcentro. com/
Italian Food
Mozzarelli Artisan Bistro 123 W Barioni Blvd, Imperial, CA 92251 760-545-0222 https://bit.ly/3b0Ctdd
Assaggio Ristorante Italiano $$ 538 E St, Brawley, CA 92227 Mozzarelli Pizza 760-344-9750 & Gelato $$ https://qrco.de/Assaggio 950 N Imperial Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 Chuck-E-Cheese $$ 760-353-3300 803 E. Danenberg Rd, https://bit.ly/3q7g4l2 El Centro, CA 92243 760-352-4785 www.chuckecheese.com George’s Pizza $$ 116 W 5th St, Holtville, CA 92250 760-356-1192 https://bit.ly/3cPgc3A Grasso's Italian Restaurant $$ 1902 Main St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-352-4635 https://bit.ly/3gAvSd5 Inferno $$ 505 Main St, Brawley, CA 92227 760-344-7744 https://bit.ly/3B7d1gH
Sushi & Noodles $$ K Sushi Bar & Grill $$ 630 S Brawley Ave Unit #6, 416 S. J St, Brawley, CA 92227 Imperial, CA 92251 760-623-1361 760-355-4440 https://bit.ly/3zyKbWT https://bit.ly/3E6JANF
Inferno $$ 3451 S Dogwood Rd #1396, El Centro, CA 92243 760-970-4818 https://bit.ly/2Ze07Rp
Khan Korean BBQ $$ 330 Wake Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-353-0202 https://bit.ly/3gy1hwY
Italianos $$ 1523 Main St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-336-0336 italianoselcentro.com
Sushi Park $$ 330 Wake Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-352-2377 https://bit.ly/3gB9uze
Johnny Carino's $$ 3203 S Dogwood Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-337-9588 www.carinos.com
Mexican Food
Cardenas Markets $$ 1620 N. Imperial Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-482-0139 www.cardenasmarkets.com
Celia’s Restaurant 1530 Adams Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-352-4570 https://bit.ly/3q4ZFxQ
Cilantros La Taqueria $ 643 S 4th St Ste 1, El Centro, CA 92243 760-693-5337 https://bit.ly/3gBgdJu D’Lupita's Restaurant $$ 336 W 5th St, Holtville, CA 92250 760-356-7100 https://bit.ly/3gwwvo5
Antojitos Como En Casa $$ 425 Desert Gardens Dr., El Centro, CA 92243 760-482-5621 antojitoscomoencasa.com D'Poly Taco, Grill & Beer $$ 1573 W. Main St, Birrieria y El Centro, CA 92243 Menuderia 760-970-4243 Guadalajaras $ https://bit.ly/35vdKLw 845 Imperial Ave, Calexico, CA 92231 760-890-5181 https://bit.ly/3cNjmoc Briseida's Kitchen $$ 741 Cesar Chavez Blvd, Calexico, CA 92231 760-618-9180 https://bit.ly/3b2oeod Camacho's Place $$ 796 W. Wahl Rd, El Centro, CA 92243 760-352-5810 https://bit.ly/2U767br
El Merendero $$ 1702 N Imperial Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 442-283-5014 https://bit.ly/3GdMxxW El Zarape $$ 139 S. Imperial Ave, Imperial, CA 92251 760-355-4435 https://bit.ly/3gCuPrP Flautas & Sopes $ 1622 S 4th St, El Centro, CA 92243 442-283-5090 www.flautasysopesusa.site Flautas & Sopes $$ 1531 Ford Dr, El Centro, CA 92243 760-336-0825 www.flautasysopesusa.site Flautas & Sopes $ 715 Cesar Chavez Blvd, Calexico, CA 92231 760-357-0655 www.flautasysopesusa.site Hacienda Market & Snack Bar $ 941 K St, Brawley, CA 92227 760-344-5542 https://bit.ly/3b0ILJR Holtville Taco Shop $ 404 E 5th St, Holtville, CA 92250 760-356-5756 www.holtvilletacoshop.com
El Cañon $ 625 Main St, Brawley, CA 92227 760-344-2411
Jalisco's Bar & Grill $$ 844 N. Imperial Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-353-2515 https://bit.ly/3nhTvsZ
El Jumping Bean Taqueria 3129 S. Sixth St. Brawley, Ca. 92227 760-623-1150 https://bit.ly/3xMdgfV
Johnny's Burritos 490 D St., Brawley, CA 92227 760-344-0961 https://bit.ly/3cJkERa Fall 2021
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Johnny's Burritos 301 Wake Ave., El Centro, CA 92243 760-353-0963 https://bit.ly/3cLY2Qb
Johnny's Burritos 105 S. Imperial Ave., Imperial CA 92251 760-355-0962 https://bit.ly/3vzAxAh
K Taquiza Restaurant $ 249 E Main St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-693-5088 https://bit.ly/3GcVSpA
Karina's Mexican Food $$ 845 Adams Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-337-0027 https://bit.ly/3njjQXG
Kennedy's Taco $ 1560 Ocotillo Dr, El Centro, CA 92243 760-970-4019 https://bit.ly/3m8DAOx
La Birrieria Red Tacos $ 900 W Birch St #5, Calexico, CA 92231 760-960-2213 https://bit.ly/2SHS77N
Las Californias Foods $ 1133 Main St, Brawley, CA 92227 760-623-7122 https://bit.ly/3gN9vkP
Los Cerritos Restaurant $ 411 E 5th St, Holtville, CA 92250 760-756-3097 https://bit.ly/35yM1t9
Las Chabelas Restaurant $$ 749 S. Brawley Ave, Brawley, CA 92227 760-351-2991 www.laschabelas.com
Ma Lupe's $$ 390 W. Aten Rd, Imperial, CA 92251 760-355-1180
Las Palmitas Taco Shop #1 $ 2003 S. 4th St, El Centro, CA 92243 La Fonda Bar & Grill $$ 760-352-2757 1950 S 4th St #1, https://bit.ly/3gwEUYH El Centro, CA 92243 760-353-6450 Las Palmitas Taco https://bit.ly/3E23yJm Shop #2 $ 880 Adams Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-370-9120 La Fuente https://bit.ly/3cL3jr0 Restaurant $ 737 Emerson Ave, Letty's Casita $$ Calexico, CA 92231 705 S. 4th St, 760-357-5760 El Centro, CA 92243 760-352-8170 https://bit.ly/2ZcppyX https://bit.ly/3wBPpPV La Resaca $$ 143 S. 6th St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-592-4971 https://bit.ly/3vFQox3
Los Cabos Seafood & Grill $$ 201 N. Imperial Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-693-5393 https://bit.ly/35xq51E
Mexca Brew Co. 612 W Main St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-970-4544 https://bit.ly/2SkabEM
Mi Casita $$ 324 S. Imperial Ave. Ste B, Calexico, CA 92231 760-556-9895 https://bit.ly/3cO17PE
Nana Dora's 103 W. K St., Brawley, CA 92227 760-344-2677 https://bit.ly/2S3kWex
Nana’s Kitchen 502 W. Aten Rd., Imperial, CA 92251 760-457-6077 https://bit.ly/3zCHvri
Sobe’s Restaurant 1151 S. 4th St., El Centro, CA 92243 760-352-6838 https://bit.ly/2Uf9q0t
Sombrero Mexican Food $$ 703 E. Danenberg Dr, El Centro, CA 92243 760-337-2160 https://bit.ly/3xyamev Patty’s Loncheria 1191 Main St, Brawley, CA 92227 (760) 960 9023 https://bit.ly/3B3hjHd
Puerto Nuevo Patio & Grill $$ 395 Broadway, El Centro, CA 92243 760-336-0430 https://bit.ly/3iMIrUj
Rosa's Plane Food Inc. $$ 445 S. Imperial Ave, Calexico, CA 92231 760-890-8860 https://bit.ly/3q5sg5Q
Tacos De Pescado Marlyn $$ 1614 S 4th St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-353-1686 https://bit.ly/2SAvbaI The Burrito Factory $$ 130 S. Imperial Ave. #3458, El Centro, CA 92243 760-693-5110 https://bit.ly/3zxSGSd Virginia's Casita $ 645 Main St, Brawley, CA 92227 760-351-2386 https://bit.ly/3b41jck
If you are interested in enhancing your restaurant's listing, contact Bill Amidon or Heidi Gutierrez at Reliance Public Relations, Inc., 760-693-5330.
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Customer service You’ve probably heard of South Cali Air Conditioning, which brings more than cool air to the homes of Imperial Valley residents. The company gives back to its community and is paving the way for how businesses should do business. South Cali Air Conditioning has become a familiar name for the Imperial Valley residents. It’s known for its large collection of impressive billboards dispersed throughout the Imperial Valley with catchy slogans. Brothers Jared and Saghid Hernandez started their business in 2017 and their business has taken off ever since. “We started the company in my garage fi ve years ago with very limited resources but with lots of motivation to start doing things diff erently in the air conditioning business,” Jared said. “Since the beginning, we focused on the residential A/C market, and we understood that the most important thing is customer service. For this reason, since day one, we strive every day to create a strong relationship
Key for South Cali A/C
with our customers.” One of their main priorities is to make sure customer calls are always answered, and provide the best customer service possible. Ensuring they can always be found no matter the customer’s problem. They work 7 days a week during the summer, and off er free estimates with diff erent options to provide the best fi t for customers. Forty percent of our new customers come from other customers’ recommendations, said Jared and Saghid. With more than 25 years of experience in the air-conditioning business, Jared and Saghid understand their customers’ needs. They off er not only excellent service, but also high-quality brands of equipment, honoring the factory warranties, and off ering credit options. Jared, who served eight years in the Army National Guard and was deployed to Iraq from 2007-2008, wants to recognize the many veterans in the Imperial Valley.
Brothers Jared Hernandez (right) and Saghid Hernandez are owners of South Cali Air Conditioning. - Photo by Derek Hernandez “When it comes to anything related to veterans, we are always happy to help them. During the month of November, we recognize those who served in the military, displaying billboards of local veterans.” Jared and Saghid point out that a good part of their success is because of the great team they have been able to build. Their employees have experience, dedication, and are always striving to do their job the best they can as they provide excellent quality service. As demand for their services continue to grow, South Cali Air Conditioning soon will be expanding their business in Arizona, bringing their exceptional customer service to more cities outside the Imperial Valley.
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Reconnect Reenter Rebuild Summit builds on mutual mental health support
“Reconnect, Reenter & Rebuild” was the theme for the World Mental Health Day Summit Oct. 8 at Imperial Valley College. An annual collaboration between IVC and Imperial County Behavioral Health Services, World Mental Health Day resumed this year after a brief hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “The World Mental Health Day summit brings our community, our Imperial Valley together to
the auditorium at IVC. Photo courtesy of IVC 24 ParticipantsFallfill2021
reflect and build upon mutual mental health support in our community,” said Scott Dudley, Behavioral Health Manager of the Imperial County Behavioral Health Services’ Center for Clinical Training. “Everyone is a stakeholder in mental health.” The summit promotes ICBHS and IVC to the community, builds relationships between agencies, provides community networking and learning experiences relative to
ICBHS’ treatment operations. This summit is a vehicle for positive media coverage, and provides outreach and engagement by featuring the mental health community. “It’s important to talk about mental health to reduce the stigma,” ICBHS Director Leticia Plancarte-Garcia said as the summit opened. “This event helps raise awareness of mental health and the services we offer.” Plancarte-Garcia, a 30-year Behavioral Health staff member and the department’s first Hispanic female director, said, “Over the years we have seen the department grow and provide more services and resources.” She said the summit’s theme – “Reconnect, Reenter & Rebuild” – comes in the wake of a pandemic that greatly impacted people’s mental health and created a worldwide disruption of services for mental, neurological and substance use disorders. “This summit will help us come together,” she said. “to bring awareness about our services, and to help us reconnect and rebuild as a community.” “All of us have suffered,” Plancarte-Garcia said. “We’ve suffered loss of our finances, experienced loss of life, suffered through isolation. In times like these we ask, ‘How can we help ourselves and help others?’ We all have the capacity for resiliency, but resiliency isn’t unlimited. There is still a lot of anxiety, fear, depression, and some have contemplated suicide. We need to stop, reflect on how we and those around us have been affected.” Community members representing different aspects of mental health participated, Dudley
said, adding, “We come together shoulder to shoulder, hand in hand, giving a venue and a voice to them, as well as the voice of ICBHS.” “Inclusion, lived experience, and open-heartedness are the trinity of community mental health,” Dudley said. The summit’s 28 sessions were divided into seven topic tracks representing ICBHS’ wide range of programs. Included were topics ICBHS Director Leticia Plancarte-Garcia welcomes participants such as “Supporting Children’s Hea lth Day Summit at Imperial Valley College. Photo courtesy of IVC to the World Mental Emotional Well-Being During the COVID-19 Pandemic,” which offered tips for caregivers and parents along with information about services available to children. Other key pandemic-related sessions focused on suicide prevention, compassion fatigue, overcoming back-to-school anxiety, self-care. The Substance Use Disorders program addressed recovery during and after a pandemic, and the treatment services it provides for adults and adolescents. Also on hand were Rose and Some of the vendors and participants at the summit. Reliance Public Relations photo Austin, rescue dogs who have been trained through ICBHS’ PET Project, and former project member Betty Boop, a labradoodle who since has been adopted. Portions of the summit were available virtually for those unable to attend in person, enabling its reach to extend far beyond the summit itself. Supporting mental health is not a one-day affair, Dudley said. “It’s really day to day, and that’s what this day accomplished,” he said. “We are y Behavioral Health nt ou C l ria pe Im e th of er ag . focusing on specific mechanisms. It’s Health Man w Rose and her handlerPub vie er int Scott Dudley, Behavioralinl ica to y ad re ts ge , ing lic Relations photo ain ce an educational experience.” Tr Relian s’ Center for C l
Service
202 N. Eighth Street • El Centro, CA 92243 For appointment call: (442) 265-1525 • (800) 817-5292 Fall 2021 bhs.imperialcounty.org
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WINNING CONTINUED FROM | PAGE 11
A digital image of the design was submitted to a university-wide competition to win three SDSU Imperial Valley students the chance to paint the social justice mural now standing in the Steppling Art Gallery.
for students in classrooms and in the community. And they found advocating to end discrimination can take many forms. It was SDSU Imperial Valley education professor LLuliana Alonso who alerted them to the university-wide mural competition. Alonso is thrilled with her students' winning design. "It's a great accomplishment and highlights the talent and resilience of our students," she said. While all three of the mural creators have a passion for art, only Ojeda had experience creating a mural. A mural of an under-the-sea scene he created graces the entry to the Zoo in Mexicali.
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Fall 2021
The three spent hours collaborating on the mural design. Medina created the digital image of their vision that was one of the winners of the social justice mural competition. Yet turning the digital image into a completed work of art turned into an unexpectedly challenging learning process – even for Ojeda. Instead of gracing the outside of a campus building, the mural is on large wood panels resting in the Steppling Art Gallery, where they were painted. Eventually, Ojeda, Medina and Ramirez hope their mural will be housed in the SDSU Imperial Valley Library, where viewers will have easy access to the writings of Anzaldúa,
whose work is honored in the mural. Ojeda, who is now student-teaching, said the type of paint and the process used to complete the work was unlike anything he had previously done. The team had hoped to work together on the mural, but they often ended up having to paint individually from midJuly through early September. Despite frustrations involved in negotiating with the competition organizers and having to use a painting application diff erent from his norm, Ojeda said the project progressed in phases he knows all too well. "When you start, you are very excited, but about midway through, you hit the 'imposter syndrome,'" he said, explaining that you no longer feel certain about your vision for the project. At that point, he said, you have no choice but to keep working. "When you fi nally fi nish, you feel excited and realize all work was worth it," Ojeda said when interviewed during the art show opening in September. "We wanted to do something to share with others all we had learned," he said. "To do it here is very special."
Prince
More than an agency, a legacy
Prince & Associates Realtors has served the Imperial Valley for 42 years. Since its inception, it has become more than a real estate fi rm, it is a part of the community that now serves children and grandchildren of past clients. Sherry Cowie, daughter of founders Robert and Anna Prince, has continued the legacy built by her family’s business. After her stepfather, Robert Prince, decided to step down as owner in February 2018. Sherry and her husband, Matt Cowie, felt ready to step up. Sherry became the new owner in March 2018. “I felt the best way to show the change of ownership was to change into a new location and update our logo,” said Sherry. Some of the company's principles and ideas have remained the same. The fi rm is now located at 343 S 8th St., Suite B in El Centro. “We still use our motto; we treat you like royalty,” said Sherry. “It has been part of the community since forever, so we did not change it.”
Sherry has established a new team of experienced Realtors who, apart from husband Matt, are all women. “The eight of us come with a lot of experience, with each having more than 10 years of experience in real estate,” said Sherry. “Three of our Realtors have been past presidents of the Imperial County Association of Realtors and state directors of the California Association of Realtors.” Prince & Associates has ranked within the top fi ve real estate agencies of Imperial County since 1979, Sherry said. Beyond helping clients sell and buy homes, the team has been actively involved in the legislative side of real estate. “We have fought for homeowner’s rights and Realtors’ rights, and I think that’s huge,” said Sherry. “It is about being part of the change and the way people are able to buy and sell homes.” Sherry is actively involved in the Imperial Valley community. She serves on the Imperial Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors
Sherry Cowie and her husband, Matt, own Prince & Associates Realtors. - Photo by William Quiroz and supports many local nonprofi t organizations. Two that she is most vocal about are the Humane Society of Imperial County and the Imperial Valley Food Bank. Prince & Associate Realtors works to keep building its legacy by serving the Imperial Valley well and making its clients feel like they are part of the family.
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The Imperial Valley Choral Society will again present the Christmas holiday favorite "Messiah¨ with combined choirs and orchestra on Dec. 3, at Christ Community Church, 590 W. Orange Ave. in El Centro. Guest soloists will include soprano Esther Rayo from Brawley.
Calendar of Events Nov. 6 8th annual Imperial County Veterans Day Parade 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Holt Park in Holtville. For information, email hdowsey@ holtville.ca.gov or call 760-356-3013. Veterans’ breakfast, 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m.; parade, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.; Farmers’ Market, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Nov. 6 Chili Cookoff 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Main Street and Plaza Park, Brawley. Unlimited chili tasting bracelets: $5 for one bracelet, $20 for five bracelets; $5 for one beer, $20 for five beers. For information, call Karen Montano at 760-344-3160.
Nov. 6
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Hike to the Top of the Ocean Beginning at 8 a.m., Imperial Valley Desert Museum parking lot. This three-mile hike is rated extreme and features a rapid, steep ascent of 1,000 feet over the Coyote Mountains, where hikers will encounter an ancient ocean bed with fossil evidence of coral, sea shells, and other marine life. To ensure the health and safety of all hikers, proof of vaccination is required Fall 2021
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.
to attend. A current, negative COVID19 test result may be provided instead but a mask must be worn at all times.
Nov. 6 Model Rocketry by Cub Scout Pack 355 10 a.m., Holtville Airstrip. Scouts at all levels are involved in numerous science/space projects and activities that include the building and launching of model rockets. Model rocketry is an integral part of Scouting. Cub Scouts should look into the various NOVA Awards that can be earned, then ask their Cub Scout Pack leader about this fun and educational activity.
Nov. 7 Reps 4 Vets 2nd annual Veterans Day 5KM Run/Ruck/ Walk 1 p.m., Cattle Call Park. Join Reps 4 Vets in person or virtually for the second annual Veteran's Day 5KM Run/Ruck/Walk. More details to follow. Nov. 10 Mariachi Night 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., Plaza Park, Brawley. Admission is free.
Nov. 12 Music of the Masters 7 p.m., Rodney Auditorium, SDSU Imperial Valley, 720 Heber Ave. Calexico. Admission is free. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Concert features SDSU choirs, wind symphony and wind orchestra. Presented by SDSU Imperial Valley and SDSU San Diego.
Nov. 12 Evening with an Expert: The Silent Beaches of the Imperial Sea 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., Imperial Valley Desert Museum. Reservations are required to attend in-person. Museum members receive early access. Nonmembers can call early to be added to the waitlist. The $35 admission fee includes food and drink across the evening and further supports the programs and activities at IVDM. Explore the geological and paleontological record of the protoGulf of California as preserved in sedimentary rocks preserved in the Yuha Buttes, Coyote Mountains, Carrizo Badlands and San Felipe Hills. This event is also available in a virtual, live-stream format on Zoom. The
Zoom meeting ID is 818 8751 9846. The presentation begins at 7:30pm. Tickets are available online at https://bit. ly/3ml0KQw
Nov. 13 16th annual Lost Lizard OffRoad Fun Run 8 a.m., Superstition Mountain OHV open area. Event by San Diego Off Road Coalition - SDORC and Amy Volmer. This is a desert cleanup. Visit www.sdorc.org for more information and location. Pre-register at https:// sdorc.org/fun-run-2021. Features family-friendly OHV route, five checkpoints with fun games, prizes for best hand, second-best hand and worst hand, raffle, and food from Dawgz Hot Dogs, Tacos by Alex, and The Rolling Cones. Participants will be asked to follow COVID regulations in place at the time of the event.
Nov. 13 Cattle Call Parade 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., downtown Brawley. Admission is free.
Nov. 13 Diversity in Praise, Celebrating Communities in Spoken Word, Song and Dance Noon to 4 p.m., SDSU Imperial Valley. Featuring special guests: Next Level, San Diego Gospel Group; Aztec Dance Group; Dr. Hope Davis & The IVC Singers; Gospel soloist Markco King; Dr. Vincent Whipple; Gospel rap artist, Profosee; DJ Al Boogie; Brawley Union High School Folklorico Club
Nov. 13 & 14 Cattle Call Rodeo 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Nov. 13, 1 p.m. Nov. 14, Cattle Call Arena, Brawley. Gates open at noon Nov. 13 and at 11 a.m. Nov. 14. For information about tickets or events, visit cattlecallrodeo.com.
Nov. 14 IVDM Lowlander Hike of the Sonny Bono Wildlife Refuge 8 a.m., starting at the refuge’s visitors’ center. Did you know that the Imperial Valley has its own volcano? Ever wonder how the Salton Sea was created? Join the
Imperial Valley Desert Museum in a dog-friendly hike along the sea’s shores. Hikers will meet in the parking lot of the Sonny Bono Visitor Center at 8am. To ensure the health and safety of all hikers, proof of vaccination is required. A current, negative COVID-19 test result may be provided instead but a mask must be worn at all times. For information, call the museum at 760-358-7016 or send email to info@ desertmuseum.org.
Nov. 15 Ninth annual National Philanthropy Day Celebration 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Old Eucalyptus Schoolhouse, 796 W. Evan Hewes Highway, El Centro. Keynote speaker is Roque Barros, executive director of the Imperial Valley Wellness Foundation. For ticket information, contact Anne Irigoyen, IVCF & NPD chairwoman at annei@amfhay.com; Bobby Brock, IVCF president/CEO at bobby@ ivcommunityfoundation.org; or the Imperial Valley Community
Foundation at 760-336-0055, www. ivcommunityfoundation.org
Nov. 20 24th Annual ABATE Turkey Run 8:30 a.m., Wal-Mart, El Centro. Join in a caravan throughout the Imperial Valley to deliver turkeys to different charities that will be providing our donated turkeys to families in need. At the end of the tour there will be a full Thanksgiving feast. The more turkeys gathered, the more families that can be helped.
Nov. 20 Wine & Dine The ECRMC Foundation will host a Wine & Dine from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. Nov. 20 at Cheval Farm, 346 Larsen Road, Imperial. The cost is a $100 donation. Tickets may be purchased at www. ecrmcfoundation.org/events/eventtwo-ewfsn. The night of fundraising will bring together local business and community leaders for a guided wine tasting led by an international wine connoisseur, followed by a dinner, open bar, reception and raffle.
Nov. 20 Ocotillo Rocks! 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Imperial Valley Desert Museum Rock out with IVDM in November with the return of its third annual Ocotillo Rocks! Explore the mysteries of the Earth and the forces at work underfoot and underground with this day that celebrates the unique geology of Southern California through games, activities, hikes and more.This event is FREE to all visitors of IVDM, with no reservations required.
Nov. 22-29 Virtual Film Festival: Comedy! Hosted online with entry deadline Nov. 15. Cash prizes: first, $500; second, $300; third, $200. Files accepted through WeTransfer, Dropbox, Vimeo and Google Drive. For details and entry forms, visit the Imperial County Film Commission on Facebook or at FilmImperialCounty. com.
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For information, call the museum at 760-358-7016 or send email to info@ desertmuseum.org.
Dec 17
The SDSU Choir (above), Wind Symphony and Symphony Orchestra will perform at a free event at 7 p.m. Nov. 12 at Rodney Auditorium, SDSU Imperial Valley, 720 Heber Ave., Calexico. Doors open at 6:30.
Nov. 27 Traditional Craft Days: Games 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Imperial Valley Desert Museum. Join IVDM for the next event in its Fall Events Series as we celebrate the return of Traditional Craft Days. Put your skills to the test as IVDM hosts a variety of games reflecting the heritage of the region's many indigenous peoples. With content and games for all ages, bring friends and family out to IVDM for a day of skill, luck, collaboration, and friendly competition. This event is free to all visitors of IVDM, with no reservations required.
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Guest soloists will include soprano Esther Rayo from Brawley.
Dec 4 9th Annual Pam Fun 5k 7:30 a.m., Imperial Valley College. Event by Cancer Resource Center of the Desert in honor of Patricia Ann Medina, who dedicated herself to selfless service and helping others, all proceeds will go to support the Cancer Resource Center of the Desert and the Imperial Valley College Foundation. Either run or walk 3.2 miles (5K). Come dressed in red or pink to support the cause! For tickets, visit https://bit.ly/3BroCYQ
For information, call the City of Imperial Department of Community Services, 760-355-3316.
Dec. 11 IVDM Stargazing: Geminids Meteor Shower 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., Imperial Valley Desert Museum Join IVDM for the fall return of its Stargazing evenings. Explore the cosmos with IVDM and amateur astronomer Michael Rood across a night filled with telescopes, talks, games and prizes. The night kicks off at 6 pm. Music, food and raffles during an evening under the stars. Bring chairs and binoculars. Event is free.
IVDM Lowlander Hike of Canyon Sin Nombre IVDM Lowlander Hike of Canyon Sin Nombre leaves the Imperial Valley Desert Museum parking lot at 8 a.m. Descend into and experience the bestkept secret of Anza Borrego in this canyon without a name. The hike is a short, flatland hike. To ensure the health and safety of all hikers, proof of vaccination is required to attend. A current, negative test result may be provided instead but a mask must be worn at all times. For information, call the museum at 760-358-7016 or send email to info@ desertmuseum.org.
Dec. 4
Dec. 11
Canyon with a View 8 a.m., Imperial Valley Desert Museum parking lot. This four-mile hike ascends a boulderfilled canyon, arriving at a small and seldom-visited valley before returning on a small Jeep trail which affords stunning views of the lower desert. This hike is rated HARD. To ensure the health and safety of all hikers, proof of vaccination is required to attend. A current, negative COVID-19 test result may be provided instead but a mask must be worn at all times.
2021 Roadrunner Christmas Classic 9 a.m., Superstition. Race format, Desert Scramble. This race will be for bikes/ quads and UTVs. Event by AMA District 38 Desert Racing. For information, visit http://amad38.com/
Dec. 3:
Parade of Lights, Christmas in a Small Town Parade of Lights, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Dec. 10. Christmas in a Small Town, 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. Dec. 11. Downtown Imperial.
Handel's Messiah 7 p.m., Christ Community Church, 590 W. Orange Ave., El Centro. Presented by the Imperial Valley Choral Society. Fall 2021
Dec. 10 & 11
Dec. 12 IVDM Lowlander Hike of Davies Valley High Cliffs. IVDM lowlander hike of Davies Valley High Cliffs. This intermediate hike involves minor elevation gains and covers soft, sandy ground. Hike leaves the Imperial Valley Desert Museum parking lot at 8 a.m. To ensure the health and safety of all hikers, proof of vaccination is required to attend. A current, negative COVID-19 test result may be provided instead but a mask must be worn at all times.
Evening with an Expert: Tribal History, Tribal Songs of the Colorado 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., Imperial Valley Desert Museum. For tickets, visit https://bit. ly/2Yn9HB0 The deserts of Imperial Valley are rich with the stories and songs of its first peoples. Experience the histories and traditions of the Quechan and Kumeyaay through their songs, stories, dances, and more with Preston Arrow-weed in this limited #EveningWithAnExpert event. Reservations are required to attend inperson. Members receive early access. Non-members can call early to be added to the waitlist. The $35 admission fee includes food and drink across the evening, and further supports the programs and activities at IVDM. This event is also available in a virtual, live-stream format on Zoom; Zoom meeting ID is 826 6968 1958 with the presentation beginning at 7:30 p.m.
Dec. 18 Ocotillo Wind Caves: Night Hike 6 p.m., Imperial Valley Desert Museum. This six-mile hike traverses ancient, petrified sand dunes and a variety of fossilized sea life to the Ocotillo wind caves. The moon will be very bright, but bring flashlights or headlamps to use if needed. This hike is rated hard and leaves from IVDM parking lot at 6 p.m. To ensure the health and safety of all hikers, proof of vaccination is required to attend. A current, negative COVID-19 test result may be provided instead but a mask must be worn at all times.
Jan. 9 Painted Gorge 8 a.m., leaves the Imperial Valley Desert Museum parking lot. Explore a canyon of color, surrounded by millions of years of earthquakes and volcanoes on this dog-friendly hike.. To ensure the health and safety of all hikers, proof of vaccination is required to attend. A current, negative COVID-19 test result may be provided instead but a mask must be worn at all times.
CRAFT BEER CONTINUED FROM | PAGE 9
“You learn organically,” he said. “Something would go wrong, I’d buy a few books and try again.” At some point, Strahm started thinking beyond the next few batches of beer. He signed up for a two-week course on the business of brewing. Strahm was working on his family’s farm, but he devoted some of his free time to getting his recipes right as well as other aspects of the craft and the business. Strahm fi nally made the decision to start his own brewery while celebrating a friend’s wedding. He’d been homebrewing for about 10 years, and he felt he knew enough to start his own business. Pieces started to fall into place. The father of Strahm’s former business partner had a building in Holtville that was available for rent. That building was occupied by a meat company at one point, and it had sloped fl oors with drainage, two things that a brewery needs. “It was pretty set for a brewery,” Strahm recalled. “We upgraded electrical. We had to install a big gas line for a boiler.” Humble Farmer Brewing Co., opened its doors in Holtville on St. Patrick’s Day in
2016. “We were very busy for about a year,” Strahm said. “We were in a honeymoon period. We were the new thing.” The Holtville taproom helped Humble Farmer get off the ground and build bonds with other brewers. Strahm worked with Quintero, Jose Luis Yepez of Calexico Brewing Co. and the folks from Prison Hill Brewing Co. in Yuma on special batches of beer. “When you collaborate, not only do you experience another brewery’s methods, it’s free exposure,” Strahm said. Business began to taper off after about a year. Humble Farmer’s Holtville location had room for just 30 people. Strahm and his partners needed a larger, more centrally located facility to boost production and bring in more customers. They found the right spot in Imperial. The pandemic did throw a curve-ball, as it did nearly every other business, but Humble Farmer closed completely only in the beginning, Strahm said. “We went through phases where we were take-out only, then patio-only, and limited capacity,” he said. “We were able to fi ll growlers. We started doing BBQ.”
Located in Holtville, the Humble Farmer tasting room showcases the unique and various brews of this boutique brewery. Photo by Charla Teeters-Stewart Humble Farmer’s fi ve-barrel system is running at full capacity these days. Batches of light beer or blonde ales yield about 10 fullsized kegs. IPA’s yield just seven full-sized kegs because the hops soak up so much CONTINUED | PAGE 32
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CRAFT BEER CONTINUED FROM | PAGE 31
Espinoza said.
Calexico Brewing Co.
Jose Luis Yepez pours a glass of Bulldog English Brown Ale draft beer at Calexico Brewing Co. - Photo by Joselito N. Villero beer, Strahm said. The operation is still very much hands-on. “We’re getting our canning system effi cient. We fi ll the cans by hand, apply stickers by hand one at a time. It takes a long time,” said Rich Espinoza, co-owner. Neither Espinoza nor Strahm have taken a paycheck from the brewery. Strahm still works on the family farm. Espinoza is a captain with the Imperial County Fire Department. Perhaps one day they will both be able to focus all of their energies on Humble Farmer. “One of the things we’ve kept talking about is increasing production, trying to get into a few more bars and restaurants,”
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Like many other craft beer entrepreneurs, Jose Luis Yepez started brewing at home. Newcastle’s Brown Ale was an early favorite and inspiration. He later discovered Ballast Point’s beers, which were brewed closer to home, in San Diego. “It was a few years back,” he recalled. “We started making beer at home. Eventually it was for the love of beer and drinking and trying new things, and it evolved into Calexico Brewing Co." Yepez and his partner, his father, started planning for their brewery back in 2015. He said he was comfortable with his recipes, and scaled them up successfully for the system he planned to use commercially. They located a space in Calexico and started the planning and licensing process. They received their state and federal licenses in 2018, and held a soft opening in January 2019, followed by a grand opening one month later. Business was good at fi rst, but then the pandemic hit. Mandatory closures forced Yepez and his father to can their beer and deliver to their customers. “About 90 percent of our sales were in-house, 10 percent were to other locations,” Yepez said. “During the pandemic we started doing deliveries, online orders, cans distribution. It was in the works but the pandemic was the push.” Today Calexico Brewing Co. delivers to 10 accounts in the Valley, and they’re pushing to get more. Yepez and his father have expanded their production area. They doubled their fermentors from two to four, one of which has double the capacity that they started with. Their fi ve-barrel brewhouse yields about 155 gallons of beer per batch. They are also adding a kitchen to their taproom. “Our taproom will serve mainly bar food with a twist,” he said. “We’re going to use a few ingredients that you don’t see around here, and we will cook with our beers.” And, Yepez said he looks forward to more collaborations with his fellow brewers on both sides of the border. “I’ve gotten a chance to work with breweries in Mexicali when they were starting up,” he said. “The brewing community is always inclusive. One (beer) that we did was a West Coast IPA.” Yepez collaborated with SouthNorte’s brewmaster Ryan Brooks on a West Coast IPA and a rustic Saison. He considers Quintero a friend. And he also worked with Strahm from Humble Farmer on a
beer with mangos from the Salton Sea. “I still get people asking for it,” he remarked.
Mexca Brew Co.
Ernie Quintero was thinking about brewing his own beer when he opened Strangers Bar in 2012, but it took a few years and several steps to complete before he started doing so. He obtained his cicerone certifi cation, which gave him a thorough grounding in the history of beer and the various styles available. He also learned how to pair beer with food, as well as how to store and handle beer from when it leaves the brewery to the moment it’s poured into a glass. The goal is to serve the best beer possible. “You learn how there’s ways of having a glass clean specifi cally for beer,” he said. “You can take a glass out of a dishwasher and it’s not going to be clean. It needs to be clean so beer bubbles right, doesn’t stick to glass, and you get the proper aroma and foam.” Fast forward a few years, and Strangers had made a name for itself with good drinks and unusual events. But its space was too small for a brewery and tasting room. Another space was needed.
“We looked around to see if anything was available for rent. La Bella was going to be available,” Quintero recalled. That was in 2016. Quintero and his life partner, Jessica Delgado, named their new venture Strangers West, because they saw it as an extension of the bar. But it took another four years from that point. The licensing process wasn’t quick, and brewing equipment wasn’t cheap. Fortunately, a friend that they met at the restaurant invested some money in their venture, which helped them acquire the necessary brewing equipment. Unfortunately the pandemic hit not long thereafter, and Quintero was forced to close the bar and the restaurant’s dining room. It also forced Quintero and Delgado to think about their lives and their work. “A lot of people did not do good. People we knew passed away. It could have been super easy to go out of business. We could have said, ‘Covid, we’re done.’ But we’re partners, it’s a family business,” he said. “We sat down and fi gured out how to make it work. We shifted the business model from restaurant only to online orders and curbside pickup. And it was cool spending time with the family. It was a
much-needed chill-out time.” Not having to be at the bar or serving people in the restaurant’s dining room gave Quintero time to focus on brewing beer and fi nalizing paperwork for a brewing license. “During the pandemic I learned how to brew,” he said. “Had we not had this slowdown time and being able to not work at the bar, I don’t know if I’d be doing this.” Nowadays Quintero and Delgado manage Mexca together. Delgado is in charge of the food. Quintero is in charge of the beer. Mexca has a one-barrel system, which is equivalent to 31 gallons. Each batch yields about two kegs. A brew day takes about eight hours. Demand is picking up, and Quintero believes he’ll be brewing around the clock once the pandemic eases. “I feel like everything I've done from the beginning of the bar, even though it took eight years to start brewing, helped me out with what we’re doing today,” Quintero said. And Julio Morales, the beer-loving journalist who moved to town over a decade ago is still covering the Imperial Valley, but now with the Calexico Chronicle. He no longer has to worry about where to buy his next batch of beer. He has a small stake in Mexca, and helps Quintero brew.
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REPS CONTINUED FROM | PAGE 7
Brendon Brown adds weight to a leg press. - Photo by Joselito N. Villero
Ricky Contreras lifts weights. - Photo by Joselito N. Villero
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me. I believe in a life of service. I spent most of my life serving the Crown, but I believe any community you are a part of, you should have the desire to serve, and this is my community.” Both Brown and Pirrie said their goal is to help as many veterans as possible, adding that only another veteran can fully understand what it’s like to be deployed and live with the experiences that come from that service. A new member of their team, Ricky Contreras, 48, who served 25 years in the military before retiring as a first sergeant — and who will soon take on the role as a trainer — said it would mean a great deal to him to support his fellow veterans. “This is veterans helping veterans. That’s what it’s all about,” said Contreras, who became a Chief Instructor for fitness in the Army, with five different physical fitness centers and 50 other fitness instructors under his command. To date, Reps 4 Vets has helped some 50 veterans, and those who have graduated from the training can then lend their support to other veterans just beginning the program. Emmanuel Lopez, 37, was one of those veterans who has gone through the program and is now ready to help others. Lopez is a 20-year veteran of the Army National Guard and Reserves with the rank of sergeant first class. He was deployed to Iraq for 12 months in 2004. Fall 2021
From his service, he was diagnosed with PTSD along with anxiety. He describes it as feeling at times like being in a closed box, from which you need to escape. The program, he said, has given him a chance to control his feelings. “This is where I take out my stress, and I’m able to function because I have this outlet for my issues,” Lopez said, adding: “It just helps being around brothers who served. That is what is unique about the veteran community. They have that in common and they understand what you are going through.” Brown echoed that sentiment. He founded Reps 4 Vets to help veterans cope with their PTSD, anxiety, and depression — what he refers to as symptoms of service — that can have a nightmarish effect on a veteran’s life after serving. Brown can relate to those he’s reaching out to because he experienced it himself. He is willing to share his story so that others may see how important it is not to face their issues alone. Brown served in the Army for eight years, joining in 2009 at the age of 21. He served as an M1 Abrams tank commander and became a master trainer on advanced situational tactics, dealing with detecting IEDs (improvised explosive devices). He said that was how the enemy killed on the battlefront. After service that included a deployment to Afghanistan, reaching the rank of sergeant, and building an identity within the military, a heart condition led him to be medically discharged. “I was told I could never lift more than 20 pounds for the rest of my life,” said Brown, who today can bench press 245 pounds despite his heart condition, which thanks to exercise, has improved and not yet required surgery. When he left the service, Brown, who also was diagnosed with PTSD, gained weight and turned to substance abuse. However, he eventually discovered his faith through Christianity and started to exercise. He lost weight, got healthy and earned his personal training certificate through the National Personal Trainer Institute of Colorado Springs, Colo. The single father of a son, aged 9 years, Brown moved to the Imperial Valley from Colorado to continue to rebuild his life. Despite being healthy and having the church’s role in his life, his PTSD still plagued him. He turned to alcohol. “I got to such a dark place and felt unfixable,” he said. He said on that February night he had a plan to end his life, but the question asked of him by another veteran while he was in church (“what are you doing tomorrow?”) was enough to stop him, which in turn meant he was around to help two other veterans in that same week.
In the end, forming Reps 4 Vets became his life’s mission, and the 4:13 Fitness Center, which allowed him to utilize the facility for the program, became his second “church,” a place where he could help others. Today, Brown, who is also an advocate for veterans as a representative of the Veterans Mental Health Advocacy Council, wants to see the program expand. He knows that growth will require Reps 4 Vets to pursue grants and support from the community. Together, Brown and Pirrie are starting that effort. The goal locally is to offer more services for veterans, from continuing to cover their gym membership costs while in the program to providing them with workout clothing. A new element of Reps 4 Vets is that once a month the program, through a fund-raising effort coordinated with Maranatha Steakhouse in Imperial, delivers 50 meals to Christ Community Church to feed homeless veterans. Brown said he’d like to see the program expand to other cities and states and hopes to one day be able to open residential facilities to serve the veteran community. The dream of expanding has led to having Contreras take over the role of lead
Justin Pirrie hoists Brendon Brown over his shoulder during a moment of levity at 4:13, where Pirrie is chief operating officer of Reps 4 Vets and Brendon Brown is the veterans' program's CEO and founder. - Photo by Joselito N. Villero trainer so Brown and Pirrie can focus on growing the program. The program has six, hour-long sessions available, which could serve up to 12 vets, and there are open slots available. Brown wants the vets to know they are welcome to reach out to him. “No matter anything they are going through, this is a judge-free zone. It is a safe place,” he said. “We are just a bunch of vets who get together, lift some weights,
hang out and build a camaraderie.” He added that he also wants vets to know, “No matter how painful their pain is, it is temporary. I just want them to know how special they are and that they are supposed to be here in this world — that they have a purpose.” For more information on the Reps 4 Vets program, contact Brown at (360) 3497845.
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MARIACHI CONTINUED FROM | PAGE 13
said they are ready to help support the college. They are either products of the Imperial Valley themselves, and who have made their careers in mariachi elsewhere, or would just like to join forces and lend a hand. Such is the case with Dr. Jeff Nevin of Southwestern College in Chula Vista. Nevin said while there “is no secret to making (a successful mariachi program) happen,” Southwestern College is the fi rst college in the world to off er a degree in mariachi – an Associate in Arts in Music with a Mariachi Specialization. He said SWC and the Sweetwater High School District worked collaboratively to establish their respective mariachi programs. “If you're all by yourself at the college, you're starting beginners at the college who are going to be struggling, so it is important to have the high school and middle school programs that (feed into
the college),” Nevin said. Nevin said the Sweetwater School District mariachi program formed in 1996, and SWC’s in 1998. By 2004, SWC was able to off er its Associate’s degree in mariachi. Nevin said many Imperial Valley natives have come through SWC’s mariachi program and later became instructors or professional mariachis themselves. Nevin’s professional group, Mariachi Champaña Nevín, routinely blends mariachi together with orchestral music. Nevin said he is open to a collaboration between Imperial Valley College and Southwestern College, and hopes to have joint concerts in the future, and even create a “Southern California Mariachi Institute” between the two neighboring colleges. IVC Trustee Karla Sigmond has also been advocating for a Mariachi program at IVC.
“Mariachi music is a way to connect with people in your community, and this community has a very high percentage of Hispanics,” Sigmond said, “and I think that's why mariachi music is so important: It inspires you to learn, to connect, and it’s connected to passion, love, and all those beautiful things in life. “With mariachi music we make connections to our past – our grandparents, our parents – with the songs, lyrics, and all the values that these musical pieces bring to students and people in general,” she added. IVC Interim Superintendent/President Lennor Johnson agrees.“That is a way that we can have it here every day, have our students perform for us live, as well as have our community members come and take classes,” Johnson said. “Heck, I'm going to even take some classes,” he said.
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The Southwest High School mariachi class smiles for the camera in 2019. - Photo courtesy of Roman Flores
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Breast Cancer
Awareness, mammograms save lives
By Heidi Gutierrez
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October, known as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, serves as a yearly reminder for women to schedule regular mammograms to detect early development of breast cancer and possibly save their own lives. According to Dr. John Dalle, chief radiologist at El Centro Regional Medical Center, breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death in women. About one in eight women will experience breast cancer sometime in their life, said Dalle. It is critical that through early detection breast cancer can be treated with less morbidity and allow for potential breast conservation measures. With early detection, the fi ve-year survival rate for women diagnosed with breast cancer today exceeds 99 percent with cutting-edge technology and refi ned treatment regimens. ECRMC’s Department of Radiology, equipped with the newest technology and state-of-the-art equipment, also off ers a highquality genetic test that is easy to complete and is covered by most insurance providers. “Recognizing your risk of breast cancer is a great fi rst step,” said Dalle. “Genetic testing allows patients to recognize their risk of breast cancer. It helps determine if they carry the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene that greatly increases the risk of breast cancer.” The next step is to schedule a mammogram every year beginning at the age of 40, even earlier if there is a family history of breast cancer, said Dalle. It is also recommended that women who have had a positive genetics test for breast cancer get screened earlier, with some even qualifying for a yearly screening breast MRI if they have a positive genetics test. “El Centro Regional Medical Center is proud to off er the latest technology in breast imaging diagnosis. This includes 3D Tomosynthesis Mammography,” Dalle said. It is a technology that uses low-dose X-rays to detect cancer early. This procedure produces 30 images of each breast, allowing for earlier detection of smaller breast tumors and lesions even before a woman experiences symptoms This advanced technology decreases callbacks in additional special views and the chance to receive a biopsy procedure. For women with dense breasts, additional imaging with breast ultrasonography can be done at the time of their annual mammogram. ECRMC recommends patients be proactive about their health and ask questions. Patients need to speak with their healthcare provider and radiologist at the time of their mammogram appointment. “We are here to assist you in any way we can,” said Dalle. “Although there are risk factors for breast cancer that you cannot change, there are risk factors that are under your control.” These include staying physically active and monitoring your weight, especially after menopause. Reducing alcohol intake to reduce the risk of breast cancer has also been supported in Fall 2021
Dr. John Dalle is chief radiologist at El Centro Regional Medical Center. - Photo provided by ECRMC studies. With an experienced team of physicians and staff , ECRMC’s Medical Imaging Center ensures that patients feel comfortable and safe. “Whether you are looking to schedule your yearly mammogram or are looking to have a breast lump or breast tenderness evaluated, please know that our women’s imaging team at ECRMC is here to help you,” said Dalle. “All of us truly care about your health and wellness and will do our part to help you on the road to recovery or to alleviate your concerns.” Dalle emphasizes the importance of Breast Cancer Awareness month and what it means to survivors and those undergoing treatment. “This October is also special because it is also an opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments of those women who have persevered or are currently dealing with breast cancer,” said Dalle. “We can look to them as shining examples of what we can overcome when faced with adversity,” he said. Recent events hosted by the ECRMC Department of Radiology include the third annual Women’s Health & Paint Night, which was held in partnership with Imperial Valley Cancer Support Center. This event is part of a community outreach program held to educate women on breast cancer awareness. Women from the community can meet the radiology/women’s imaging team while mingling through activities such as painting, drinking wine, live music, and more. For those who wish to take the fi rst step to protect their breast health and schedule a mammogram, the Medical Offi ce Building on the El Centro Regional Medical Center Campus welcomes you. You can schedule your mammogram appointment by calling 760-482-5000 today.
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Free Tuition and up to $800 for books for all new and returning students attending IVC’s Winter and Spring 2022 Semesters!
Winter Intersession Begins January 3 Spring Session Begins February 14 Visit www.imperial.edu/FREE for more information or scan this QR code.
Imperial Valley College • 380 E. Aten Road • Imperial, CA 92251 • (760) 352-8320 • www.imperial.edu.
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