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This edition of Imperial Valley Alive invites readers to take a cruise down memory lane and then buckle up as we blast off for more heart-pounding adventures now and into the future.

It is our way of saying thank you for the support and enthusiasm that has allowed Alive to thrive as a publication dedicated to capturing the zest and flavor of the unique region that we are all fortunate to share. Now starting Alive’s 10th year of publication, we can honestly say none of this would have been possible without your ideas, contributions, and willingness to become part of the magazine.

For that reason, this edition offers more than a wide selection of fascinating stories and compelling images. It invites readers to celebrate with us the community that made it possible to realize the dream of publishing a magazine devoted to exploring captivating but often overlooked aspects of the Imperial Valley.

Long before the first edition was published in the Fall of 2016, we were convinced that the Valley needed a magazine to provide newcomers, visitors, and locals with stories that showcased the fascinating people and the exceptional beauty of the region. It was community enthusiasm that prompted us to turn the dream into prose, photos, and print.

Our guiding principle in developing Alive and still leading us today is the certainty that the Imperial Valley deserves a publication focused

I.V. Alive Thriving at 10

on the diverse, vibrant, and creative community we know and love, but rarely see in media outside the Valley.

Launching Alive proved to be a journey through sometimes treacherous terrain. Yet every time we feared the trail had become too challenging, the waters too rough, our efforts were buoyed by the enthusiasm of our community, our readers, and our advertisers. We encourage you to support these fine businesses, whose goods and services help the local economy grow and keep the community strong.

In a sense, the people of the Valley are much more than the subjects of Alive. You have breathed the spirit into the magazine. Many of you have offered comments and ideas that have grown into compelling stories. Some of you have generously opened your homes, celebrations, and hobbies with us, allowing them to become unique stories in Alive.

Words alone cannot do justice to the enormous impact that reader contributions, inspiration, and images have had on bringing stories to life on the pages of Alive. Instead, we invite you to see it for yourself by browsing through the nine years of the e-editions of Alive at www.imperialvalleyalive. com/e-magazine.html (or use the QR code here in the print edition).

And local photographers deserve a shout-out for their submission of images have enlivened the pages of many editions of Alive , including this one. Their images reinforce our belief that the Valley is full of creative and talented people.

You will find plenty of examples of that talent in this edition, starting with the cover shot of the rodeo Wild Horse Race. And more examples of local talent are arrayed on the Valley map on pages 1415, highlighting some of the region’s exceptional beauty.

Then, you will want to hang on tight as we shift gears and get ready to rodeo. You won’t

Imperial Valley Alive as it evolves from Fall 2016 to today's edition.

BELOW: Artist Sheryl Nash.

want to miss reading about Jonathan Blackstone, Brawley’s assistant police chief, who annually takes his guts and grit into the rodeo arena to ride the Wild Horse Race at the Cattle Call Rodeo.

Then head farther north as we explore how the Salton Sea became an unlikely graveyard for Navy and Marine aviators who died in crashes there while training for deployment during World War II. You can also read about the multitude of ways Valley communities have developed to honor veterans and why memorials matter in telling the stories of the Valley’s veterans..

You will also meet Sheryl Nash, a talented painter and multimedia artist who is dedicated to creating community, and whose art will be featured at a fundraiser for the Imperial Valley Food Bank. Speaking of the Food Bank, in this edition, you can learn about the creative steps the Food Bank is taking to feed locals facing food insecurity amid sharp cuts in federal funding.

There is also an article about a new loan program for young people interested in raising livestock for Imperial Valley’s California Mid-Winter Fair, which may generate interest in future agricultural careers. Then, as always, our calendar of events and restaurant guide are sure to keep you entertained and satisfy your palate.

As Alive begins its 10th year of publication, we celebrate you, our readers, and community. It is your enthusiasm and involvement that allow Alive to thrive today and into the future.  Fall 2025

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INDEX |

PG 12

Volume 10, Number 1 EDITORS & PUBLISHERS Bill Gay Sue Gay Susan Giller Bill Amidon

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Darren Simon

CONTRIBUTORS Bill Gay Caitlin Chávez Kayla Kirby Blake Nelson Darren Simon

Wild Ride |

Brawley’s assistant police chief in Cattle Call Arena . . . . . . . . . . Page 6

PHOTOGRAPHERS Bill Amidon Susan Giller Joselito N. Villero

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Alejandra Noriega Alejandra Pereida

Salton Sea |

An unrecognized war memorial. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 8

Veteran Memorials |

Take many forms to honor memories in Imperial Valley . . . . . . . . . Page 10

WEB DESIGNERS Sergio Uriarte Jesus Uriarte

SALES

Bill Amidon John Lovecchio

Amazing photos highlight the region . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 14

Volunteer Spirit |

COVER PHOTO Wendy Miller

Compass Imperial Valley |

Artist's Vision |

Painting a colorful, connected community . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 12

Living to feed the hungry in the North County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 16

IV Food Bank |

Overcoming challenges to feed the hungry. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 18

VALLEY AGRICULTURE AND BUSINESS SECTION

Sun Community

Youth livestock loans invest in ag’s future. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 32

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Jonathan Blackstone hangs onto his team's wild horse and races across the arena during a recent popular Cattle Call Rodeo event.

-Photo courtesy of Jonathan Blackstone

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Calendar of Events, Page 20 IV Sand Dunes, Page 26 Valley Eateries, Page 28 Rodeo Committee keeps Cattle Call tradition alive, Page 34

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Cattle

Call

Brawley assistant police chief shares a wild ride

By Darren Simon Jonathan Blackstone knows a thing or two about keeping the peace and protecting his community from lawlessness. He does so each and every day in his service as Brawley assistant police chief.

But there’s another side to Blackstone, a wilder side—one that comes out every Cattle Call Rodeo.

For 10 years, Blackstone, without an ounce of cowboy training but plenty of guts and grit, has taken part in one of the wildest events of the Cattle Call Rodeo, the Wild Horse Race. In the race, teams of three try to saddle a wild horse and be the first to ride it across the finish line.

It’s the event that kicks off each Cattle Call Rodeo performance, this year scheduled for Nov. 7, 8, and 9.

The Wild Horse Race harkens back to the 1800s, the early days of rodeo, and, some might say, the lawlessness of the Wild West.

“One of my buddies did the race,” said Blackstone, 43, who has served the Brawley Police Department for 19 years, and before that, the Calipatria Police Department for a year. “It looked fun, so I gave it a shot, and it’s been a lot of fun ever since.”

Today, despite having no prior experience riding horses, rodeo has become a part of not only Blackstone’s life, but also that of his 10-year-old son.

His son, Maverick, developed an early love for rodeo, starting out riding sheep at just 2 years old.

Now, he competes in mini-bull riding through the Junior Rodeo Association in California. His skills qualified him to compete in Texas and Utah.

“It’s a great little bond he and I have with rodeo,” Blackstone said.

Maverick said one day he’d like to compete with his dad in the Wild Horse Race.

“I feel like it makes me happy to watch him,” said Maverick, who participates in the Cattle Call MiniRodeo. “I’m glad watching him do crazy stuff like me.”

As a kid growing up in Irvine, Blackstone never expected the path his life has taken.

Yet, he wouldn’t have it any other way.

Blackstone played baseball in Little League and then in high school in Irvine.

He attended Irvine Valley College (which, coincidentally, shares the same acronym as Imperial Valley College—he refers to it as the other IVC) with the goal of becoming a history teacher.

While there, he took administration of justice courses as electives.

“One of my professors thought I would enjoy them, and he was right. I ended up changing my path.”

He enrolled in police academy training and, upon

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Fall 2025

Jonathan Blackstone and his son Maverick. Blackstone in a Wild Horse Race competition at Cattle Call.

- Photos courtesy of Jonathan Blackstone graduation, was immediately hired by the Calipatria Police Department. He quickly felt a connection to the Imperial Valley.

“I really like the small-town feel. You know people everywhere.”

He was then hired by the Brawley Police Department. He has risen through the ranks there, from detective to sergeant, then commander, and a year ago to assistant chief.

“I love my community and that I get to give back to my community,” said Blackstone, who in 2020 earned his bachelor’s in criminal justice from Sacramento State University.

“Being able to help in any way I can is so meaningful to me.”

Then, about 10 years ago, he got interested in the Wild Horse Race.

“My friend participated in the Cattle Call Rodeo that year for the first time. After he did it, I asked how it was, and he said, ‘awesome,’” Blackstone said. “That’s when I knew I had to try it.”

Blackstone formed a team, and their first rodeo was in Prescott, Ariz. He’s been hooked ever since, participating in Cattle Call every year, as well as in Prescott, some years, and one year in Cheyenne.

He is his team’s rider—the one who gets atop the saddle and races toward the finish line.

The Wild Horse Race involves teams of three—the mugger who throws an arm around the horse’s neck to control it, the rider who saddles and mounts the horse, and the shank man who holds onto the rope to give the rider a chance to get into the saddle to try to ride across the finish line first.

A team receives points for getting the horse saddled, mounting the horse, and crossing the finish line. It all happens lightning fast.

“It’s definitely an adrenaline rush,” Blackstone said.

“There’s a lot more technique to it than you think. It’s not just some crazy guys going out there to do it.”

Teams can win buckles, money, and the team CONTINUED | PAGE 34

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Salton Sea

By Bill Gay Navy Aviation Radioman Third Class Frank P. Pankieweiz was one of just a few World War II aviators who lived to describe what it was like to crash into the Salton Sea. He gave an interview to his hometown newspaper, the St. Joseph (Mo.) News Press, in February 1943, several weeks after his four-engine seaplane crashed while practicing a water landing.

“The impact of the plane hitting the water knocked my shoes off my feet, tore my shirt from my back, and took the pockets off my trousers,” he said. Of the nine crew members, only two survived: Pankieweiz and Ens. W.R. Pharr. The huge four-engine Coronado, also known as a “flying boat,” was the largest aircraft in service with the Navy at the time.

“I was conscious when we hit the water, and I swam onto a wing of the plane,” where he and Pharr awaited rescue, he told the newspaper.

He added that the seven who died in the crash were killed upon impact.

All bodies were later recovered.

The Salton Sea, once a recreation mecca and now an environmentally troubled lake with a shrinking shoreline, was once a key

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to crashed aircraft that were usually left in place, some of the bodies of aviators who were killed could not be An unrecognized recovered. The individual sites still war memorial belong to the Navy, but most of those locations have been lost to time.

Between 1941 and 1945, hundreds of military aviators learned to fly the war’s most advanced and unforgiving military training area. And beneath its aircraft at the Salton Sea. They came hyper-saline surface lies a history largely from across the nation to master perilous erased by time: it is an underwater new tactics like skip-bombing, the use graveyard for wrecked military aircraft of torpedoes, and aerial rocketry. and possibly some of their occupants.

The Valley’s training was also “Once planes had crashed, and if they featured in the nationally distributed were not easily accessible, they just “Buz Sawyer” newspaper comic left them there most of the time,” said strip during the war years.

Andy Marocco, an aviation historian and For the young aviators, the researcher. He is founder of AeroQuest, most dangerous enemy was not a nationwide group of volunteers the Axis powers but the inherent who work to discover and document risk of their own preparation. wreck sites of historical aircraft.

Nearly 40 Navy and Marine Corps Marocco also has worked as a aviators would die in Salton Sea special projects coordinator at the crashes between 1941 and 1945.

NAS Ft. Lauderdale Museum.

While most were preparing for their His organization’s website, aeroquest. first combat operations, there were org, has documented Salton Sea several crash victims who were wrecks as well as the famous Flight highly decorated combat veterans.

19 “Lost Patrol,” where five Navy “One simple mistake can cause lots torpedo bombers disappeared off of things to go wrong,” Marocco noted. the coast of Florida in December The AeroQuest website lists the 1945 and were popularized by the World War II fatal and nonfatal crashes: myth of the “Bermuda Triangle.”

10 TBM Avenger torpedo bombers, Marocco, who lives in Beaumont, two F4U Corsair fighters, four F4F said his research on the Flight Wildcat fighters, three Grumman F6F 19 “Lost Patrol” sparked an Hellcat fighters, three Curtis SB2C interest closer to home in looking Helldiver bombers, and three PBY into the Salton Sea stories.

Catalina or Coronado flying boats.

And because of wartime The Dec. 27, 1942, crash, in which procedures, in addition Pankieweiz survived,

represented the largest single loss of life.

Marocco has identified more than two dozen likely target areas where barges were used to receive the inert practice bombs that were loaded with cement rather than explosives.

“If we know where the targets were,” he said, “We probably know where many of the planes are.”

Late in the war, then-Col. Paul Tibbits, who was to fly the Enola Gay on its mission to drop the first atomic bomb on the Japanese city of Hiroshima, flew highly secret practice runs over the Salton Sea, where inert atom bombs underwent ballistic tests. The dummy bombs were configured as “Little Boy” and “Fat Man”, which were dropped on Hiroshima on Aug. 6, 1945, and Nagasaki, three days later.

The purpose of the practice runs was to determine the most effective methods for dropping the bombs.

Marocco said those dummy bombs are most likely still in the Salton Sea. Most of the other aviators flying the training missions over the Salton Sea flew out of three large military bases in Imperial Valley: The Marine Corps Air Station at what is now the Naval Air Facility near Seeley, the Naval Auxiliary Air Station near Holtville and the Salton Sea Naval Air Facility on the sea’s west shore, six miles south of Salton City.

The Salton Sea base would later be used to test recovery systems for NASA’s Mercury space capsules. It continued in use as the Salton Sea Test Base until the early 1990s, supporting various military training operations.

PB2Y Coronado "Flying Boat¨ was the largest Naval aircraft in 1943.

- Photo National Archives Marocco said only one of the wrecked planes has been found in recent years: a barnacle-encrusted TBM Avenger that crashed after the war and was discovered by divers in 1999.

The plane crashed in 1949 while on a training flight. The pilot survived.

The Riverside County Sheriff ’s Department discovered it while looking for a Cessna that had gone down in the Salton Sea. A member of the recovery team told Marocco, the Avenger “was in remarkably good shape.”

Marocco said that recovering the aircraft wrecks is not impossible but is a difficult task due to the need to bring barges and heavy equipment into an area that does not have a lot of infrastructure. “It’s a pretty expensive operation,” he said.

According to the Imperial Irrigation District website, the 343-square-mile Salton Sea is relatively shallow. The deepest spots are less than 50 feet deep.

In 2013, Marocco’s group unsuccessfully sought to establish a Salton Sea War Memorial by

salvaging the TBM Avenger that had been accidentally discovered. They were working with the Navy and had an agreement with the Palm Springs Air Museum. The issue, though, was the expense of the salvage effort: estimated at about $250,000.

The idea was to create a Salton Sea Naval Air Museum, “to bring attention to the history and sacrifices that were made during World War II at the Salton Sea for our country,” Marocco noted in a 2013 letter seeking support for the salvage efforts.

While World War II memorials are common, some who served are only remembered in archived news articles, perhaps some hometown monuments, and, of course, direct family memorabilia.

Lieutenant William Carlson, the CONTINUED | PAGE 36

Summer Fall 2025

9

Veterans Memorials to those who

convoy commander. During one mission, she identified a VBIED, a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device. Despite a warning, the bomb detonated, triggering serve take many forms one of the largest explosions recorded in Kabul.

She said, “I’ll never forget standing guard ... as the bodies were brought in, 11 to thank all those who served in all pulling security while they came with

By Kay Day Pricola branches of the military and again in the body bags. That moment changed May when the Valley and the nation pay me forever. It taught me the true weight The Imperial Valley maintains many homage to those who lost their lives in of sacrifice, the cost of service, and the memorials to honor veterans of military the fight for our freedom. deep responsibility we carry for one service. Some of these spaces and "For many veterans, a memorial another.” places are large and easily visible, is more than stone and names; it’s The Valley’s memorials become a while others are smaller and may go a sacred space where the weight of space for reflection on the experiences unnoticed. sacrifice is acknowledged, where and stories that veterans never forget.

Some of the Valley’s multiple invisible wounds are seen, and where Yet how do veterans, their families, and memorials bear solemn walls etched no one is forgotten,” said Esther Frias, others who want to pay homage find the with names. Other memorials are an Army combat veteran and founder multiple veterans' memorials scattered buildings, like the Veterans Memorial of VetConnect, an Imperial Valley throughout the Valley? One way is to Building in Imperial. Some are portions organization that works to help veterans search for Imperial County memorials of a museum, such as the Veterans access the services they need. on California’s Registry of Veteran Memorial Plaza and Veterans Gallery at Each “memorial reminds us that our Memorials. The registry lists 10 of the the Pioneers Museum in Imperial. memorials in the county and provides And still others include streets to honor service mattered, our brothers and sisters are remembered, and we are each site’s address, photo, contact veterans, including Veterans Memorial never truly alone,” she said. “I’ve seen information, and other relevant details.

Way in Brawley. how these spaces can be lifelines, Yet some of the most visible memorials Regardless of size, shape, or location, powerful anchors of healing, honor, and in the Valley are not listed on the state the memorials share a common registry. That includes the striking purpose: to honor veterans and preserve hope."

Frias served from 2009 memorial dedicated at the Imperial the legacies of those who served. to 2011 with the 101st County Airport in 2017, which features These memorials honor veterans Airborne Division in Kabul, an eagle to recognize veterans of all year-round, not just on those designated Afghanistan. During her tour, branches of the military, and the solemn dates when the Valley joins the nation she was assigned the role of veterans' wall in El Centro’s Bucklin Park. in celebrating Veterans Day on Nov.

Day

CONTINUED | PAGE 42

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Fall 2025

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Artist's

Vision

By Kayla Kirby Imperial Valley artist Sheryl Nash spends most of her days gliding from room to room in her El Centro home, which serves as her art studio, working on as many as six pieces at a time.

An almost-complete commissioned painting sits in her living room, and Jewelry pieces are in a second room.

In another room, with canvases and sculptures, sits a painting of a woman with a beaming smile.

That piece, Nash’s tribute to this year’s Palate, Palette, and Pallet event set for the Imperial Valley Food Bank on Oct. 30, honors the late Francis Rice.

Rice spent many years organizing the event at the Episcopal Church of Saints Peter & Paul, its original home. The event migrated to the I.V. Food Bank four years ago, where it expanded to include food, wine, and artwork from local artists.

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Fall 2025

Creating art and community in the Valley

Funds raised through the event purchase pallets of food that the Food Bank distributes locally in its effort to fight food insecurity.

Nash was honored to contribute her portrait, which features a blouse that did not actually exist. It was created in the portrait to resemble a stained glass window at the church that Rice adored.

Nash tearfully recounted her appreciation for Rice, Rice’s work at the church, and her creation of the event that is a critical fundraiser for the Food Bank.

The tears also came as she discussed their friendship.

“There were a few times that she was kind enough just to talk to me, and to let me talk to her,” Nash said. “To me, that was part of who she was. She was a very spiritual person.”

Nash still paints at the church every Thursday with her fellow “art farts,” as she calls them. She and the group of “older

TOP PHOTO: Sheryl Nash BELOW: An image of her artwork - Photos by Joselito N. Villero ladies” want to expand to include more young local artists.

“We need the younger folks to step up,” Nash said. “I’ve spent so much of my time trying to reach out to them, trying to connect them, trying to show them that

“People come in and out of my house.

We collaborate,” she said. “It’s just about reaching out to people in the community.”

Reaching out spawned a relationship with Kimberly Alfaro Massey, the owner of Unwind and Design Creative Studio, in El Centro. Since they met in 2016, Nash has submitted art to Massey’s galleries, participated in classes and events with Massey, and was featured as artist of the month at Massey’s studio.

“She is very motivated in taking initiative in enabling and participating in activities and events. She is driven to step into a role to connect and help artists,” Massey said. “She also very much takes on the

they have things in common, and we have so many great artists in this Valley.”

She wants the Imperial Valley to become an art-centered destination, where artists can share and display their work and introduce the community to thought-provoking pieces.

“I’ve always thought that this would be a perfect place in between Yuma and San Diego to have an art colony similar to Santa Fe…. It could happen,” she said.

Nash’s art studio houses acrylic paint-and-pours, assemblages with feathers, mosaic art with grains of rice and beans, and various other creations. Several pieces depict people and occurrences in her life, while others are expressions of her thoughts.

Nash also focuses on collaborating with artists and promoting local art opportunities.

identity as a full-time artist. Every time I call her, she is creating.”

The works in Nash’s home include sculptures depicting oil spills and polluted beaches, intended to draw attention to environmental issues. She also displays several paintings with items attached to the canvas as if her work was coming out of the painting and into life.

CONTINUED | PAGE 38

Nash's artwork featured in her home gallery.

- Photos by Joselito N. Villero

CONTINUED | PAGE 38

Fall 2025

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Compass: Imperial Valley

Land of beauty, and a decade of talented IV Alive photographers

1 Felicity

Center of the World complex and museum.

- Courtesy of Center of the World

2

2 Salton City

6

A hummingbird comes in for a landing in Salton City.

- Velma Ruiz Pacrem

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3 Desert Hikers

Jacumba Hikers enjoy a hike in western Imperial County -Kevin Marty

7 3

4

4 Mt. Signal

Rising above the valley fields, Mt. Signal stands as the timeless guardian of the Imperial Valley.

-Juan Rodelo

5 Brawley Sunflower field near Brawley, CA -Velma Ruiz

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6 Calipatria

My favorite spot to watch sunsets in the imperial valley is from my front yard. Photo taken in Calipatria, CA. -Frances Zendejas-Settlemire

7 Pelicans

Imperial Wetlands off Weinert Road west of Imperial - Charlie Nichols

8 1

8 Alamo River

My favorite place in the Valley is along the Alamo fishing. Gives the mind a chance to recharge.

-Russell Fischer

Fall 2025

15

Cari Augusta and her husband, Richard.

- Photo of courtesy of Cari Augusta

Volunteer Spirit

By Caitlin Chavez When Brawley resident Cari Augusta attended the 2016 Community Obesity Prevention Alliance (COPA) meetings in Westmorland, she was astonished to learn about the high rate of food insecurity in the North County.

Augusta, already involved in her community as a member of the Magnolia Union School Board and the Westmorland Community Presbyterian Church, remembers feeling moved when she learned that neighboring Valley families were worried about meeting their nutritional needs.

“I found out we had over 16 percent of our community who were food insecure when COPA first came out to

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Cari Augusta's call to feed the hungry in North County

Westmorland,” Augusta said.

As a result of these meetings with various county and public health agencies, as well as community members who expressed concern, combating food insecurity in Westmorland became a priority.

Augusta, along with her husband, Richard, and with the support of the Westmorland Presbyterian Church, founded the Westmorland Community Food Pantry in 2018.

Richard Augusta said their effort started slowly but moved forward, thanks to the knowledge provided by the Imperial Valley Food Bank to become a partner agency. “Our church was thinking about how we could serve our community, and we began with

distributing food at our courtyard here at church, serving about 50 families,” he said.

Cari Augusta became the Food Pantry’s director, a volunteer role, and devoted countless hours to expanding the operations. Her leadership helped the pantry navigate food safety and county regulations in addition to a growing volunteer program.

In 2022, after years of leadership in Westmorland, she was hired by the Imperial Valley Food Bank as the agency care coordinator, a position that has her overseeing more than 60 partner agencies, including local churches, food pantries, and other distribution centers.

In her role, she ensures their operations align with federal and state food safety policies and other essential rules.

“We had this gap on our team and needed to hire someone who understands the depth of what we do at the Food Bank,” Imperial Valley Food Bank Director Sara Griffen said.

“Besides the fact that Cari is amazing and we love the work she does in Westmorland, is her proficiency with the agency software system we use. She was the perfect fit.”

Even after taking on that new role, Augusta has continued to lead the Westmorland Food Pantry as a volunteer director.

“I feel called to do something in the community,” she said. “As an active member of the Westmorland Presbyterian Church, I think it's important for every church to find its niche in their community and find what God is calling you to do in your community.”

The Food Pantry began with just a handful of volunteers and has grown its support base to meet the needs of local families.

“It took a while to build up the pantry’s capacity and trust with the public when we first started,” she said. “We started with serving around 80 families a week, but when COVID hit, we were up to 200 families a week.”

Today, the pantry serves approximately 120 families. The effort is supported by volunteers, including a team of individuals with special needs, snowbirds during the winter and early spring, and North County retirees

who provide weekly distributions on Thursdays.

Entering its seventh year of operations, the pantry has built its capacity through support from grants from organizations, such as the Imperial Valley Wellness Foundation, and partnering with local agencies to bring in additional food.

“Since its inception, the Westmorland Food Pantry has been able to gather some donated equipment, including some milk refrigerators that are fabulous for storing boxes of produce, and grant purchases of a commercial refrigerator and freezer,” Augusta said.

While the Imperial Valley Food Bank serves as a safe repository for tens of thousands of pounds of shelf-stable, refrigerated, and frozen foods, it is community agencies, including the Westmorland Community Food Pantry, that are essential partners to support food distribution throughout the Valley.

In addition to working closely with the Food Bank, the Westmorland Food Pantry also frequently partners with the Imperial County Public Health Department (ICPHD). The partnership undertakes various projects, including the development of a community garden at Westmorland Elementary School, which offers schoolchildren the opportunity to learn about growing vegetables and provides an additional food source for the pantry. The pantry also partners with ICPHD to provide nutrition education classes through the CalFresh Healthy Living Program.

Other services provided by the Food Pantry include nutrition education

Volunteers with the Westmorland Food Pantry.

BELOW: food is prepared for distribution.

- Photos courtesy of Cari Augusta for children and seniors, as well as a community 12-Step Program.

“While food distribution is one part of our mission, we are also promoting healthier lifestyles for our community, sharing resources that encourage others to make better choices for their health and healing journeys,” Augusta said.

Even with uncertainty in future funding that supports the Food Pantry, Augusta is optimistic and motivated to serve Imperial County.

“After distributions, I come back with a sense of joy and accomplishment to be able to serve our seniors, our families,” Augusta said. “We’re a community; we need to help each other.” 

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760-970-4407 Fall 2025

17

IV Food Overcoming

Bank

By Caitlin Chavez

Since taking the helm at the Imperial Valley Food Bank nearly 15 years ago, Executive Director Sara Griffen and her Board of Directors have grown the small, grassroots organization into a movement that feeds the nearly one in five Valley residents facing food insecurity.

This year, however, federal cuts to longstanding programs and an uncertain future in funding from California programs have led to new challenges. That has prompted the Food Bank team to focus even more on innovating and collaborating to serve the region’s hungry.

“We're not going to get more money from the government to buy food, and we’re not going to get more food from government sources,” Griffen said. “So what can we do to maintain the 20 meals per person per month we have been providing and meet increasing community needs?”

Despite the federal cuts in food support—a hit valued at $2.5 million—the Food Bank board, staff, and volunteers are committed to fulfilling the Food Banks’ mission to provide supplementary food and nutrition support to 25,000 children, seniors, and families throughout the Valley.

“With the impending cuts, it is a lot of

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challenges to serve Imperial County creative thinking about where do we get food that we don't have to purchase, or how do we find additional resources to fulfill our monthly distributions.” said Board Secretary Sharon Stegmuller.

Stegmuller is entering her eighth year on the Board of Directors. With decades of executive experience and as a business owner, Stegmuller is one of 15 directors whose professional acumen and community involvement provide vital leadership with fundraising and operations. She also credits the guidance Griffen has provided.

“I know a lot of us stay on the board because we're inspired by Sara’s leadership and the people that she brings in to support the mission of the Food Bank,” Stegmuller said.

The Food Bank’s efforts were recognized this past summer by Assemblyman Jeff Gonzalez when he named the Food Bank this year’s nonprofit of the year for the 36th Assembly District. His district covers Imperial, San Bernardino, and Riverside counties.

In a press release, Gonzalez said, “The Imperial Valley Food Bank plays a vital role in our community by ensuring that residents have access to nutritious food, especially during challenging times.”

One example of how the Food Bank is addressing current challenges is a pilot program aimed at reducing the cost of purchasing food by sourcing more locally grown food to feed the community.

Still in its early stages, local

Imperial Valley Food Bank Executive Director Sara Griffen - Photos by Joselito N. Villero agricultural leaders have provided guidance on how to move forward with the program to rescue produce left unharvested by local farming operations.

Fundraising events, including the upcoming Imperial Valley Palate, Palette & Pallet, slated for Oct. 30 at the Food Bank in Imperial, are ways the organization collaborates with the community to overcome the financial challenges.

Innovating to overcome challenges is nothing new for the Food Bank.

The successful $6.5 million capital campaign, which led to the construction of the Food Bank’s facility in Imperial to house its operations and warehouse, is an example of that innovative spirit. The 28,000 squarefoot facility, more than twice the size of its former cramped location, opened in 2019.

Shortly after the opening, COVID hit, and the board and staff had to shift to navigate the increased demand for community support. From that crisis, the Food Bank learned to increase its efficiency to ensure a steady flow of food reached those in need in a timely manner.

Since then, the Food Bank has invested in enhancing its warehouse efficiency to ensure a smoother

flow of food to those in need. This both maintains food safety and allows for a division of tasks. Volunteers support essential light work, including the packing of thousands of boxes and bags, as well as on-site daily distributions. That allows warehouse staff to focus on managing inventory, operating the equipment, and completing more physically demanding tasks involved in loading and unloading thousands of pounds of food.

“By investing in our efficiency, we are also maintaining accuracy in our reporting of the food poundage and value, which is essential for our annual financial audits, but it also saves time for the warehouse staff who need to be out in the county supporting distributions,” Griffen said.

Another critical step the Food Bank implemented, even before the most recent funding cuts, was to reach out for more volunteers. This included creating corporate volunteer opportunities, a move that has offset costs and allowed more donor funding to focus on food resources.

Through the corporate volunteer program, staff from area companies support the Food Bank's mission while also teambuilding. Participating businesses from corporate fast food, geothermal energy, agriculture, bottling plants, and others have volunteered their time since the program started earlier this year.

The Food Bank is also working to expand its list of donors through restructuring its existing programs, which currently consist of annual donors, and the monthly recurring donors.

“We want to continue to grow our development program to include other donor levels that may appeal to the upcoming generation of supporters and further develop our relationships with our major supporters,” Griffen said.

Grant writing is another essential tool for soliciting support. That

Food Bank staff and volunteers tend to a garden at the Food Bank in Imperial. was a lesson learned, according to Griffen, during a past federal government shutdown.

“Our board realized that we need to diversify our funding stream because it was not sustainable to rely on just one source, the federal government, to keep it going,” she said. While grants remain a vital revenue stream, funding isn’t guaranteed because of the competitive nature of grants and limited amounts of funds available.

Despite the challenges, the Food Bank’s staff and board remain optimistic.

“Our board, our staff, and our volunteers are resilient,” Griffen said. “We are committed to our vision and will achieve it through our thoughtful planning and thinking outside of the box for creative solutions to feed our community.” 

760-335-6357

WWW.LOCKEAC.COM Fall 2025

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Calendar of Events October 18-19

October 25

59th Borrego Days Desert Festival 8:30 am – 8 pm: Sat. 9:30 am – 3 pm: Sun. Christmas Circle Park www.borregodays.com

Dolomite Mine Hike 8 am IVDM Lowlanders 11 Frontage Rd, Ocotillo, CA www.ivdesertmuseum.org

October 23 Mini Pumkin Patch 6- 8 pm Lions Center-Front Lawn 225 A St, Brawley CA http://bit.ly/47lYMbd

October 24 NAF Halloween Carnival & Haunted House 6 pm Club Mirage – On NAF Base www.navylifenafec

October 24

20

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.

Trunk or Treat 6 - 9 pm Stark Field 830 S 4th St, El Centro CA www.instagram.com/p/DPU Fall 2025

October 25 IV Buddy Walk & Inclusion Fair 8:30 - 11:30 am Bucklin Park 1350 S 8th St, El Centro, CA Best S.T.E.P. Forward www.evenbrite.com/2025-Imperialvalley-buddy-walk

October 25 Lowriders & Catrinas Los Amigos de la Comunidad 5 - 10 pm Warner Park – A St & 1st St, Brawley, CA www.facebook.com/photo/

October 30 Halloween at the Library El Centro Public Library 4 - 6 pm

1198 N Imp. Ave, El Centro, CA www.cityofelcentro.org/128

October 30 Haunted House-Trunk or Treat 6 pm - 8 pm Brawley Playhouse Theatre 150 N Plaza St, Brawley FREE to public

November 1 Blair Valley: Morteros & Pictograph Trails 8 am IVDM Lowlanders 11 Frontage Rd, Ocotillo, CA ivdesertmuseum.org

November 1 Chili Cookoff & Rib Contest Brawley Chamber of Commerce 1 - 5 pm Main & Plaza Park, Brawley, CA www.brawleychamber.com

November 1 3rd Annual Graveyard Boogie

7 pm - Midnight Jacumba Hot Springs Hotel 44500 Old Hwy 80, Jacumba, CA jacumba.com/pages/calendar

November 2 Jacumba Dia de los Muertos Jacumba Hot Springs Hotel 2 PM 44500 Old Hwy 80, Jacumba, CA jacumba.com/pages/calendar

November 3 Cattle Call Kick-Off Mega Mixer 6 pm Hart Ins. Center 580 S 1st St, Brawley, CA www.brawleychamber.com

November 5 Mariachi Night Brawley Chamber of Commerce 6 pm Main & Plaza Park, Brawley, CA www.brawleychamber.com

November 8

November 15

Chuck Wagon Breakfast Brawley Chamber of Commerce 5 am South Plaza Park, Brawley, CA www.brawleychamber.com

Tumco Ghost Mining Town 7 am IVMD Lowlanders Starbucks-2365 4th St, El Centro, CA www.facebook.com/photo/

November 8 Cattle Call Parade Brawley Chamber of Commerce 9 am Main & Plaza Park, Brawley, CA www.brawleychamber.com

November 8

November 15 Veteran's Breakfast City of Holtville 7:30 am - 9 am American Legion Hall 225 W 6th St, Holtville, CA www.holtville.ca.gov/wp

November 15

Cattle Call Rodeo 7 pm Cattle Call Arena-Cattle Call Dr Brawley, CA www.cattlecallrodeo.com

20th Annual Honey Festival 5K Run, Parade, Spelling Bee 8 am - 2pm 300 S Center St, Westmorland, CA www.ivregionalchamber.com

November 15

November 7

November 8

Cattle Call Rodeo

Archaeology Day

November 9

7 pm

9 am - 3:30 pm

Cattle Call Arena-Cattle Call Dr

Anza Borrego Desert State Park

Brawley, CA

Visitor Center

www.cattlecallrodeo.com

www.ivdesertmuseum.org

Cattle Call Rodeo 1 pm Cattle Call Arena-Cattle Call Dr Brawley, CA www.cattlecallrodeo.com

Holtville Farmers Market & Street Fair 9am - 1 pm Holt Park-121 W 5th St, Holtville, CA www.holtville.ca.gov/wp

Fall 2025

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November 15

December 12

12th Annual Veterans Day Parade 10 am 5th St & Walnut Ave, - 5th & Pine Ave, Holtville, CA www.holtville.ca.gov/wp

Parade of Lights - Imperial 6 pm - 8 pm Downtown Imperial www.cityofimperial.org

November 15

Become a Sponsor at a Chamber Event Christmas in the Park • Thursday, December 18th, 2025 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM

• Pictures with Santa • Free Candy Canes • Hot Chocolate and Cookies

• Middle School and High School Band & Chorus will perform Holiday Music

*SPONSORSHIPS Available: Recognition at the Event, and Social Media Page, and you may also Host a Booth at the event.

79th Annual Carrot Festival

“Hoppily Ever After” Feb. 6th, 2026 to Feb. 14th, 2026

Feb. 6th

Carrot Festival Royalty Coronation/Citizen of the Year Banquet th th Feb. 12 -15 Carnival Midway Feb. 13th Carrot Festival Kick-Off Concert: 7PM on Holt Ave Taco Cart, & Beer Garden on Holt Ave Feb. 14th 79th Annual Carrot Festival Parade – 10AM Craft & Food Booths on Holt Ave & Holt Park Carnival Parade Awards School Drumline Competition Mariachi Night at 5PM – 7PM *SPONSORSHIPS Available: 3 Sponsorship Levels, Advertising Opportunities, Individual Event Sponsorships. All Sponsorships will include an ad in the 2026 Carrot Festival Program Book Deadline for all Sponsorship Forms, Artwork, & Payments must be received by January 3rd, 2026

2026 Carrot Festival Royalty Competition

Open to all young ladies attending Imperial Valley Schools. (Grades K-12) Candidates must Reside and Attend School in Imperial County & Maintain a 2.0 GPA Competition consists of 3 Parts: Ticket Sales, Speech Competition & Live Interview

Deadline to Register is Dec. 19th, 2025 Tickets will be distributed when Registration is confirmed Applications can be completed Online or In Person at the Chamber office *For all Sponsorships or Competition, go to Holtville Chamber of Commerce Website at

www.holtvillechamber.org or Call our Office at 760-356-2923 22

Fall 2025

SLAM Fest 1 pm - 5 pm Brett Driscoll Sidwinder Skate Park 600 Park Ave, El Centro, CA www.cityofelcentro.org

November 15 The Music of Shostakovich A 50th Anniversary Memoriam Imperial Valley Symphony 7 pm Jimmie Cannon Theatre-2001 Ocotillo Dr, El Centro, CA www.eventbrite.com/e/the-music-ofshostakovich

November 20th Calexico Tree Lighting City of Calexico 4:30 pm - 7:30 pm 608 Heber Ave, Calexico, CA calexicorecreation.org/christmastree-lighting-event -2025

December 5 City of El Centro Christmas Tree Lighting 5 pm - 9 pm Fire Station #3, 1910 N Waterman Ave, El Centro, CA www.cityofelcentro.org

December 6 Cool Canyon Hike 8 am IVDM Lowlanders 11 Frontage Rd, Ocotillo, CA www.ivdesertmuseum.org/expl

December 6 Christmas Parade-El Centro 10 am Main St & 8th St, El Centro, CA www.cityofelcentro.org

December 13 Christmas in a Small Town 1 pm - 5 pm Downtown Imperial www.cityofimperial.org

December 13 Christmas Parade - Calexico 10 am Historic Downtown Calexico www.calexicorecreation.org

December 18 Christmas in the Park 5:30 pm Holt Park-121 W 5th St, Holtville, CA business.holtvillechamber

December 20 Arroyo Tapiado Mud Caves Hike 8 am IVDM Lowlanders 11 Frontage Rd, Ocotillo, CA www.ivdesertmuseum.org

January 10 - 11 Art in the Park 2026 10 am - 5 pm Gateway Park-Yuma, Az. www.yumaaz.gov

January 17 Salton Sea Bird Festival 7 am - 5 pm Salton Sea State Recreation Area & Sonny Bono National Wildlife Refuge https://www.saltonsea.com 

California

Mid Winter Fair PRESENTED BY:

February 27th March 15th, 2026 Food • Rides • Entertainment • Vendors Dirt Track Events • Mini Murals 4H & FFA Livestock Showing • & Much More!

Fall 2025

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Fall 2025

Sponsored Content

Fall 2025

25

Imperial Valley

Sand Dunes Located in the Southwest corner of California are the Imperial Sand Dunes which are the largest mass of Sand Dunes in the State.

Formed by windblown sands of ancient Lake Cahuilla, the dune system extends more than 40 miles from North to South, and 5 miles in width, which covers about 100,000+ acres. The Dunes often reach heights of 300 feet above the desert floor, providing outstanding opportunity for recreation. A favorite place for offhighway vehicles (OHV) enthusiasts, most of the offroad action takes place in the recreation area along Highway 78 to the south. The dunes also offer fabulous scenery, opportunities for solitude, and a home for rare plants and animals.

The North Algadones Dunes Wilderness, which is North of Highway 78 offers a tranquil alternative to the fast paced action of the main dunes. The Dunes Wilderness covers more than 26,000 acres, with the largest and tallest dunes located in the central area (can be accessed on foot, or horseback only) between Mammoth Wash and Glamis Dunes.

Dune Recreation Areas: Buttercup Valley Recreation Area (15 Mi. West of Yuma, Az along I-8) Glamis Dune Area (25 Mi. East of

New safety rows in glamis flats. No parking or camping in safety rows.

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Fall 2025

Brawley, Ca- South side of Hwy 78) Mammoth Wash (North End of the Sand Dunes - North End of Algadones Dune Wilderness)

Fees and Permits

Permits required from October 1st – April 15th each Year (Season) Permits $35 per week in advance and $50 per week if purchased onsite Season Permits are $150 (Can be purchased Online - isdpermits.net)

Rules & Regulations

Go to: blm.gov/visit/imperialsand-dunes/rules-and-regulations NEW SAFETY ROWS (South & West of Vendors Rows) in place at Glamis Flats, Imperial Sand

Dunes Recreation Area.

These Safety Rows/Lanes are off limits for parking or camping (That means NO setting up camp, NO leaving Vehicles, etc., within these rows.

The purpose is to keep traffic flowing more smoothly and to give emergency / first responder access.

Must abide by these rows being off-limits for our own SAFETY!

FREE Fee Days

On “Free Fee Days” recreation standard amenity,

Imperial Valley Museums

Open: Wednesday – Sunday 10 AM – 4 PM Cost: General Admission . . . $5 Website: ivdesertmuseum.org

Open: September thru May Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 10 AM – 4 PM Sunday 12 PM – 5 PM Cost: General Admission . . .$10 Students/Active Duty/Senior Citizens. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $5 Children under 5. . . . . . . . FREE Website: pioneersmuseum.net

History of Humanity / The Church / Maze of Honor Center of the World Plaza, Felicity, Ca. 92283 Ph: 760-572-0100 Open: Nov 1 – April 30 (Guided Tours) Daily – 10 AM – 5 PM MST May 1 – Oct 31 (Self Guided Tour) -7 AM – 7 PM Costs – Include Parking Adults . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$10 Children. . . . . . . . . . . . . (5-12) $5 Children (Under 5) . . . . . . . FREE Website: Historyingranite.org

Center of the Pioneers Museum World in Felicity 373 Aten Rd., Imperial, Ca. "Museum of 92251 Ph: 760-352-1165 History in Granite¨

and day use fees on BLM lands are waived  Martin Luther King Jr Day – 1/20  Juneteenth National Independence Day – 6/19  BLM’s Birthday – 7/16  Great American Outdoor Act Anniversary – 8/4  National Publics Land Day – 9/27  Veterans Day – 11/11

Contact Info : Imperial Sand Dunes Cahuilla Ranger Station (Gecko Rd., Brawley, CA 92227 (760) 337-4400 

Imperial Valley Desert Museum

11 Frontage Rd, Ocotillo, Ca. 92259 Ph: 760-358-7016

Fall 2025

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Valley's Eateries

Imperial Valley's homegrown restaurants offer lots of tasty choices

American Food 1905 Bar & Grill $$ 1500 N. Imperial Ave., Imperial, CA 92251 760-919-5558 http://bit.ly/3ZUpnJ2 2GO SALADS $ 210 E. Cole Blvd #5, Calexico, CA 92231 760-618-9120 https://bit.ly/30Jk7LT Applebee's Grill & Bar $$ 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 Back To Eden Juice $ 616 Main St, Ste#4 Brawley, CA 92227 https://bit.ly/46UCFXh

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Fall 2025

Brickhouse Deli 447 W. Aten Rd, Imperial, CA 92251 760-592-4352 www.bhdeli.co

Buffalo Wild Wings $$ 510 Danenberg Dr, El Centro, CA 92243 760-337-9481 www.buffalowildwings.com Burgers & Beer $$ 260 N. Imperial Ave., El Centro, CA 92243 760-353-4431 https://bit.ly/3h44J1n

DQ Grill & Chill Restaurant $$ 3063 N Imperial Ave. El Centro, CA 92243 www.dairyqueen.com

Denny's $$ 1445 Ocotillo Dr, El Centro, CA 92243 760-352-2576 www.dennys.com

Cafecito Bar $ 157 N Plaza St, Brawley, CA 92227 760-262-3257 https://bit.ly/3vnd3nt

Denny's $$

Brownie’s Diner $$ 990 Main St, Brawley, CA 92227 760-344-2938 https://bit.ly/3cP5Ct7

Chili's Grill & Bar $$ 3303 S. Dogwood Rd, El Centro, CA 92243 760-352-2116 www.chilis.com

Famous Dave's $$

Buckshot Deli & Diner $$ 8120 CA-111, Niland, CA 92257 760-359-0595 https://bit.ly/3jrInbX

China Palace Steakhouse $$$ 1075 Adams Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-353-1510 https://bit.ly/2TFOTSy

Broken Yolk Café 3049 N. Imperial Ave., El Centro, CA 92243 760-352-9655 https://bit.ly/35Vk5A9

3403 Dogwood Rd. El Centro, CA 92243 760-337-9023 www.dennys.com

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

Locally Owned

$10 & under per person

Beer/Wine only

$20 & under per person

Full Bar

Over $20 per person

Foster Freeze $ 130 N. 5th St, Brawley, CA 92227 760-344-7566 https://fostersfreeze.com Habit Burger $ 2335 S. 4th St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-997-7805 www.habitburger.com

Humble Farmer Brewing Co. 116 S. Imperial Ave Ste C, Imperial, CA 92251 760-545-0037 humblefarmerbrewing.com

IHOP $$ 2362 S. 4th St,

Hope Café and Creperie $ 605 E 2nd St, Calexico, CA 92231 760-890-5259 https://bit.ly/3zyZAXd

El Centro, CA 92243 760-352-1100 www.ihop.com

Hope Café and Creperie $ 1027 W State St. El Centro, CA 92243 442-283-5092 hopecafeelcentro.com

Jersey Mike’s Subs 1002 N Imperial Ave. EL Centro, CA 92243 442-231-8093 www.jerseymikes.com

Hot Rods & Beer $$ 235 West E 5th St, Holtville, CA 92250 760-356-9900 hotrodsnbeer.com

Junior's Café $ 1791 Adams Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-353-9556 https://bit.ly/3cP2oG5

Maranatha Steakhouse $$ 612 S. J St, Imperial, CA 92251 760-355-0777 https://bit.ly/2ZaBkx2

Menchie’s 508 E Danenberg Dr., #7 El Centro, Ca., 92243 760-970-4820 www.menchies.com

Panera Bread $$ 2321 S. 4th St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-332-6499 www.panerabread.com Pepper Grind Coffee $ 1560 Pepper Dr, El Centro, CA 92243 https://bit.ly/3j3jcxd

Sizzler $$ 707 N. Imperial Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-353-3780 http://www.sizzler.com

Ursa $$ 612 W. Main St., El Centro, CA 92243 760-970-4011 http://ursadesert.com

Sonora Fusion $$$ 560 W State St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-693-5069 https://bit.ly/3wLozVP

Asian Cuisine

The Burger and I 595 W. Main St., Brawley, CA 92227 760-550-6031 bit.ly/3OqulpV

The Healthy Spot $ 134 Main St, Calipatria, CA 92233 760-354-2005 https://bit.ly/40kVCO5

Rabb Slabs Bbq $$ 496 W. State, El Centro, CA 92243 760-970-4867 bit.ly/3y1aquf

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

Tropical Delights $$ 219 W E St, Brawley, CA 92227 (760) 344-5051 https://bit.ly/3rakIPW

Saltcedar Barbecue $ 297 South Imperial Ave. Imperial, CA 92251 619-724-8162 Saltcedarbbq.com Shake & Wake $ 1490 N. Imperial Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 442-283-5100 https://bit.ly/3EalJfZ

Valley Vida $$ 1560 Ocotillo Dr. Ste C El Centro, CA 92243 442-271-4103 https://valleyVida.com Vibras Healthy Nutrition $ 136 N Plaza, Brawley, CA 92227 760-679-6277 https://bit.ly/41c6hfm

BB Hawaiian BBQ $$ 775 Danenberg Dr, Ste 104 El Centro, CA 92243 (760) 556-0582 Chef Lee's Express $ 1049 N. Imperial Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-693-5555 https://bit.ly/3xx5M0q Chi+Mac $$ 330 Wake Ave El Centro, CA 92243 760-353-0203 bit.ly/40zTMcC 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 Fortune Garden $$ 3309 S. Dogwood Rd, El Centro, CA 92243 760-352-9888 https://bit.ly/3iJn6uQ

Golden Dragon $$ 928 Imperial Ave. Calexico, CA 92231 760-890-0066 Helen’s Family $$ 445 W. Main St. Brawley, Ca. 92227 760-592-6962 helensfamilyvietfood.com K Sushi Bar & Grill $$ 416 S. J St, Imperial, CA 92251 760-355-4440 https://bit.ly/3zyKbWT Khan Korean BBQ $$ 330 Wake Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-353-0202 https://bit.ly/3gy1hwY Komaki Sushi & Sea Food $$ 1133 Ben Hulse Hwy, Brawley, CA 92227 760-623-1033 https://bit.ly/3q5qyWB Kotori Japanese Food $$ 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 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 $$ 799 E. Danenberg Dr, El Centro, CA 92243 760-337-9208 https://bit.ly/2UccQkB Sushi & Noodle $$ 800 N. Imperial Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 442-283-5075 Sushi & Noodles $$ 630 S Brawley Ave, Unit #6, Brawley, CA 92227 760-623-1361 https://bit.ly/3E6JANF

Sushi Park $$ 330 Wake Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-352-2377 https://bit.ly/3gB9uze Sushi Spot $$ 115 North Imperial Ave. Ste F-G, Imperial, CA 92251 760-355-0441 https://bit.ly/39JEYUl Volcano $$ 445 E. Main St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-337-9105 volcanoelcentro.com The Thai Bistro $ 775 E. Danenberg Dr. Ste. 105 El Centro, CA 92243 (760) 592-4611 exoticthaibistro.com Unni Korean Food $ 582 Adams Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-970-4121 https://bit.ly/41xhJlA Wongs Kitchen $ 102 W 5th St, Holtville, CA 92250 760-791-3227

Italian Food Assaggio Ristorante Italiano $$ 538 E St, Brawley, CA 92227 760-344-9750 https://qrco.de/Assaggio

Fortune House $$ 1627 W Main St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-352-3888 https://bit.ly/3vrsZzu Fujisan Sushi $$ 1560 Ocotillo Dr Suite O, El Centro, CA 92243 760-970-4436 www.fujisaniv.com Fall 2025

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Chuck-E-Cheese $$ 803 E. Danenberg Rd, El Centro, CA 92243 760-352-4785 www.chuckecheese.com George’s Pizza $$ 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 Johnny Carino's $$ 3203 S Dogwood Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-337-9588 www.carinos.com Mangiamos Pizza $$ 1802 N. Imperial Ave. Ste. C El Centro, CA 92243 442-231-8293 pizzaelcentro Mona Lisa Cocktails & Cuisine $$$ 2393 CA-86, Imperial, CA 92251 442-258-3350 https://bit.ly/45pGYrn

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Fall 2025

Mozzarelli Artisan Bistro $$ 123 W Barioni Blvd, Imperial, CA 92251 760-545-0222 https://bit.ly/3b0Ctdd

Round Table Pizza 508 E Danenberg Dr.,#6 El Centro, Ca. 92243 760-970-4801 roundtablepizza.com

Mexican Food Antojitos Como En Casa $$ 841 W. Main St., El Centro, CA 92243 442-271-4016 Antojitos Como En Casa $$ 425 Desert Gardens Dr., El Centro, CA 92243 760-482-5621 antojitoscomoencasa.com Asadero Neighborhood $$ 220 W Birch St. Calexico, CA 92231 760-357-0890 https://bit.ly/39LddL2 Baja Tacos $$ 460 Holt Ave. Holtville, CA 92250 442-225-7126 https://bit.ly/3XTV6JD

Birrieria La Patria $$ 301 Sorenson Ave. Calipatria, CA. 92233 760-354-2020 lapatriamgrestaurant. com Birrieria y Menuderia Guadalajaras $ 845 Imperial Ave, Calexico, CA 92231 760-890-5181 https://bit.ly/3cNjmoc Briseida's Kitchen $$ 741 Cesar Chavez Blvd, Calexico, CA 92231 760-618-9180 https://bit.ly/3b2oeod

Celia’s Restaurant $$ 1530 Adams Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-352-4570 https://bit.ly/3q4ZFxQ

El Chochis Snacks & Salads $ 1065 Main St, Brawley, CA 92227 760-790-8242 https://bit.ly/3K9LdzB

Chilibertos Tacos & Breakfast $$ 717 Imperial Ave., Calexico, CA 92231 760-890-5415 http://bit.ly/429h90Y

El Jumping Bean Taqueria #2 $$ 1050 S Brawley Ave #103, Brawley, CA 92227 760-623-7030 bit.ly/3m5FCPd

Cilantros La Taqueria $ 643 S 4th St Ste 1, El Centro, CA 92243 760-693-5337 https://bit.ly/3gBgdJu

Flautas & Sopes $ 715 Cesar Chavez Blvd, Calexico, CA 92231 760-357-0655 www.flautasysopesusa.site

El Guero Tacos & Beer $ 1560 Ocotillo Dr. El Centro, Ca. 92243 442-230-9971

Hacienda Market & Snack Bar $ 941 K St, Brawley, CA 92227 760-344-5542 https://bit.ly/3b0ILJR

El Menudazo $ 548 Broadway #C, El Centro, CA 760-970-4940 bit.ly/3n8dezl

Holtville Taco Shop $ 404 E 5th St, Holtville, CA 92250 760-356-5756 www.holtvilletacoshop.com

El Merendero $$ 1702 N Imperial Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 442-283-5014 https://bit.ly/3GdMxxW

Jalisco's Bar & Grill $$ 844 N. Imperial Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-353-2515 https://bit.ly/3nhTvsZ

Cabos Modern Kitchen $$ 201 N. Imperial Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-693-5393 bit.ly/3WxXoMu

D’Lupita's Restaurant $$ 336 W 5th St, Holtville, CA 92250 760-356-7100 https://bit.ly/3gwwvo5

Cachanillas Tacos & Cheves $$ 1101 Paulin Ave., Calexico CA 92231 760-890-0121

D'Poly Taco, Grill & Beer $$ 1573 W. Main St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-970-4243 https://bit.ly/35vdKLw

El Zarape $$ 139 S. Imperial Ave, Imperial, CA 92251 760-355-4435 https://bit.ly/3gCuPrP

El Cañon $ 625 Main St, Brawley, CA 92227 760-344-2411

Flautas & Sopes $ 1622 S 4th St, El Centro, CA 92243 442-283-5090 www.flautasysopesusa.site

Cardenas Markets $$ 1620 N. Imperial Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-482-0139 www.cardenasmarkets.com

Flautas & Sopes $$ 1531 Ford Dr, El Centro, CA 92243 760-336-0825 www.flautasysopesusa.site

Johnny's Burritos 490 D St., Brawley, CA 92227 760-344-0961 https://bit.ly/3cJkERa

La Fonda Bar & Grill $$ 1950 S 4th St #1, El Centro, CA 92243 760-353-6450 https://bit.ly/3E23yJm Johnny's Burritos 301 Wake Ave., El Centro, CA 92243 760-353-0963 https://bit.ly/3cLY2Qb

La Fuente Restaurant $ 737 Emerson Ave, Calexico, CA 92231 760-357-5760 https://bit.ly/2ZcppyX La Resaca $$ 143 S. 6th St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-592-4971 https://bit.ly/3vFQox3

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 La Birrieria Red Tacos $ 710 Heil St, El Centro, CA 92243 (760) 970-4406 https://bit.ly/2SHS77N

Las Chabelas Restaurant $$ 749 S. Brawley Ave, Brawley, CA 92227 760-351-2991 www.laschabelas.com Las Palmitas Taco Shop #1 $ 2003 S. 4th St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-352-2757 https://bit.ly/3gwEUYH Las Palmitas Taco Shop #2 $ 880 Adams Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-370-9120 https://bit.ly/3cL3jr0 Letty's Casita $$ 705 S. 4th St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-352-8170 https://bit.ly/3wBPpPV Los Cerritos Restaurant $ 411 E 5th St, Holtville, CA 92250 760-756-3097 https://bit.ly/35yM1t9

Rosa's Plane Food Inc. $$ 445 S. Imperial Ave, Calexico, CA 92231 760-890-8860 https://bit.ly/3q5sg5Q

Ma Lupe's $$ 2600 Thomas Dr. El Centro, Ca. 92243 Ma Lupe's $$ 390 W. Aten Rd, Imperial, CA 92251 760-355-1180 Maria's Taco Shop $ 401 Broadway, El Centro, CA 92243 760-675-6546 https://bit.ly/3iLMFLP

Nicky’s Mexican Restaurant 644 Main St, Brawley, CA 92227 442-646-9492 bit.ly/44zYV71

Rosa's Plane Food Inc. $$ 1523 Main St., El Centro, CA 92243 442-231-8040 https://bit.ly/3q5sg5Q

Patty’s Loncheria $$ 1191 Main St, Brawley, CA 92227 760-960-9023 https://bit.ly/3B3hjHd

Sobe's Restaurant $ 1151 S. 4th St. EL Centro, CA 92243 760-352-6838 sobesrestaurant.com

Mi Casita $$ 324 S. Imperial Ave. Ste B, Perlita's $$ Calexico, CA 92231 1649 W. Main St, 760-556-9895 El Centro, CA 92243 https://bit.ly/3cO17PE 760-970-4107 perlitasmexicanfoodca.com Mexca Brew Co. $$ 612 W Main St, Puerto Nuevo El Centro, CA 92243 Patio & Grill $$ 760-970-4544 395 Broadway, El Centro, CA 92243 https://bit.ly/2SkabEM 760-336-0430 https://bit.ly/3iMIrUj

Sombrero Mexican Food $$ 703 E. Danenberg Dr, El Centro, CA 92243 760-337-2160 https://bit.ly/3xyamev Tacos De Pescado Marlyn $$ 1614 S 4th St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-353-1686 https://bit.ly/2SAvbaI

Sofia’s Kitchen $$ 395 A St Ste B Brawley, CA 92227 760-623-1777 bit.ly/3HkRx5Z

The Burrito Factory $$ 130 S. Imperial Ave. #3458, El Centro, CA 92243 760-693-5110 https://bit.ly/3zxSGSd

Sofia’s Seafood & Grill $$ 132 S Plaza St. Brawley, CA 92227 760-623-1080 bit.ly/3NbNgFO

Virginia's Casita $ 645 Main St, Brawley, CA 92227 760-351-2386 https://bit.ly/3b41jck 

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

If you are interested in enhancing your restaurant's listing, contact Bill Amidon at Reliance Public Relations, Inc., 760-693-5330.

Fall 2025

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VALLEY AGRICULTURE AND BUSINESS |

Sun

Community

By Blake Nelson

32

For many Imperial Valley youth, raising an animal to show and potentially sell at the California MidWinter Fair is a highlight of the year, a rite of passage. To make the tradition accessible to even more local youth, Sun Community Federal Credit Union developed a unique loan program for youth that at the same time invests in the future of agriculture.

“We want to open doors and remove barriers for more local kids to be involved with 4-H and Future Farmers of America (FFA),” said Jared Redden, Senior Ag Relationship Manager at Sun Community. “Agriculture drives our local economy and supporting kids in these programs ensures the next generation stays connected to it.”

That’s the spirit behind the credit union’s novel Youth-Got-It Livestock Loan Project, which launched two years Fall 2025

Youth loans help finance future ag leaders

ago. Youth interested in raising animals for the 2026 California Mid-Winter Fair, scheduled for Feb. 27 through March 15, can still apply for the program this year.

Applications for the project loans will be accepted through Dec. 31. Students and parents interested in applying can visit any of the local branches or learn more online at suncommunity.com.

The program’s format is simple. Loans are available for young people between the ages of 9 to 18 who are interested in raising a 4-H or FFA animal for the fair and need help covering upfront costs associated with buying, feeding and caring for an animal for the fair.

“Whether it’s for 4-H or FFA projects, Sun Community is here to help youth shine,” according to the credit union’s Facebook page. “Our Livestock Loans are designed to give students the financial support they need to raise, care for, and showcase their animals with confidence.

“Together, we’re proud to support the

next generation of ag leaders,” it added.

Through the program students who want to raise livestock for the fair can get loans of between $250 to $3,000 at an interest rate of 4 percent APR. The youth account loans can be used for the purchase of an eligible animal ranging from small animals, including rabbits, goats, sheep and swine, and up to larger animals, such as calves and steers. The loan funds can also be used to finance feed, bedding, and supplies for the animal.

“The structure of the program is simple for families to understand and teaches students the importance of planning, budgeting and meeting deadlines,” Redden said.

An added bonus, if the student pays the loan off in full by the maturity date of July 1, 2026, all interest is waived.

To apply for a loan, students complete an application online at suncommunity.com or at any of the local Sun Community branches. Students

| VALLEY AGRICULTURE AND BUSINESS seeking a loan must provide a budget analysis, a business plan, and a copy of their report card. Parents are required to apply with the student to ensure support and oversight. However, Redden said, the structure is designed to place responsibility on the student.

One student who has experience with the program is Nathan Correa. He was 14 when he applied for and received a $750 youth livestock loan from Sun Community. The funds helped pay to buy his calf, Bucky, and supplies like food, bedding, and buckets.

In the months that followed, he spent every morning and afternoon feeding and watering the calf, cleaning bedding, exercising the animal, and keeping it healthy. Bucky grew from 122 to 352 pounds under Nathan’s care and eventually sold at the California Mid-Winter Fair.

“This program really gave me a chance to take on responsibility and see the results of my hard work,” he said.

Stories like Nathan’s are signs of positive return on investment for Sun Community. He is one of about 100 youth who have received loans since the program began. So far, the

program has financed nearly $150,000 loans to youth through the program.

“This cause is important because it ties directly to our roots as a credit union: serving our members and our community,” Redden said. “At Sun Community, we believe in giving young people the tools to succeed. We like creating opportunities for them to take on responsibility, pursue their goals and truly Shine On in both farming and life.”

Founded in 1954, Sun Community serves those who live, work, worship, or volunteer in the Imperial and Coachella Valley areas of California.

The credit union now has eight branches and a dedicated local call center. It has a history of community involvement and a commitment to provide financial education.

One popular program is Bite of Reality, which Sun Community takes to local high schools. It is a hands-on app-based simulation designed to appeal to teens and give them a taste of real-world financial realities.

“We will continue to invest in the next generation of community leaders,” Redden said.

Additional financial literacy tools

for all ages are available on the Sun Community website, which also is full of additional ways the credit union assists the community, through contributing to community causes, offering scholarships, and being active in multiple civic and business organizations, including the chambers of commerce, the Imperial Valley Farm Bureau and Imperial Valley Vegetable Growers.

“Through affordable housing, financial education, charitable donations, or volunteerism, our dedication is making a lasting impact in the places we call home,” Sun Community’s website states.

The You-Got-It Livestock Loan Project is very much in keeping with the credit union’s focus on community and the Valley’s major base, agriculture.

Redden said, “4-H and Future Farmers of America are pillars in our community. They teach discipline, leadership and responsibility while strengthening the connection between families, agriculture and local traditions.

“They also create opportunities for kids to be recognized and celebrated for their hard work, which brings pride to the whole Imperial Valley.” 

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CATTLE CALL CONTINUED FROM | PAGE 7

Cattle Call

Jonathan Blackstone hugs his son.

- Photos courtesy of Jonathan Blackstone with the wildest ride wins a bottle of whiskey, which Blackstone and his teams have won three times.

The Wild Horse Race is not without some danger, and minor injuries are a part of the experience. Blackstone said he has pulled muscles, been stepped on by horses, had an elbow and ear split open. There have been other bumps and bruises.

Blackstone joked that his wife, Casie, has often questioned his participation but has always been supportive.

“I do support him 100 percent, but I’m not always happy with the decisions he makes with the Wild Horse Race,” said Casie,

Jonathan Blackstone joins in a ride through the city to promote Cattle Call.

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Rodeo Committee keeps tradition alive

The Cattle Call Rodeo Committee is finalizing preparations for the 2025 Cattle Call Rodeo, three days of thrilling western sports action..

The rodeo, held in Brawley’s Cattle Call Park, begins Nov. 7 at 7 p.m., followed on Nov. 8, again at 7 p.m., with the final performance during Family Day at the rodeo at 1 p.m. on Nov. 9. Tickets are on sale now at www.cattlecallrodeo.com.

What began on a high school football field in 1957 has grown into a beloved annual event, thanks to the vision of its founders and the dedication of the community. After the inaugural rodeo, community support helped build a permanent arena in the brush-filled river bottom, establishing the home for what would become a Brawley tradition.

Today, the event is managed by the eight-member Rodeo Committee, a group of community leaders dedicated to preserving this legacy while making capital improvements to the park. The rodeo committee works closely with the city of Brawley to ensure the park is kept in pristine condition.

Here is a look at the committee: Danny Williams, committee chair, also serves as the liaison to the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and contracts the announcer, clowns, and entertainers.

Carson Kalin, son of founder Louise Willey, has served as the committee's treasurer since 2000. He manages finances, ticket sales, and technology updates.

Curtis (Curt) Rutherford, nephew of founder Ed Rutherford, produces the spectacular opening ceremony for each performance.

Don Alford, a former rodeo bronc and bareback rider, organizes the “Wild Horse Race" that kicks off the action at every performance.

Victor (Chino) Torres is the newest committee member, responsible for social media engagement, advertising, and outreach to media outlets. He is also a veteran competitor, having participated in the Wild Horse Race for over 15 years and Team penning for five years.

Robin Williams oversees all concessions and works with local agencies to upgrade the arena and grounds.

Cassandra Costa is a liaison with local law enforcement and volunteer groups.

Larry Allen leverages his skills in marketing and sales to raise money through community sponsorships.  who grew up in the Valley, learned to ride, and even owned a horse in her youth. “I tell him, ‘you’re getting older, and it’s time to put away that card; you’re not as resilient, and we have to baby you back to health.’”

Casie added, “I get more nervous watching him than our son because he’s not 10 years old.”

Blackstone acknowledges that he feels the bumps, bruises, and wear and tear of the event more now, but he has no plans to stop anytime soon.

Danny Williams

Carson Kalin

Curtis Rutherford

Don Alford

Victor (Chino) Torres

Robin William

Casandra Costa

Larry Allen

So far, while he and the teams have won certain performances (and the whiskey), they have not won the entire event. Blackstone still wants to achieve that goal. And it’s still an event he loves as much as he loves serving his community.

“There just is nothing else quite like it,” he said. “It’s just a hard feeling to duplicate.”

He added, “Between this and my son’s events, I’ve really fallen in love with the sport of rodeo, and I have great respect for what the rodeo athletes are able to do.”  Fall 2025

35

SALTON SEA CONTINUED FROM | PAGE 9

plane commander of Pankieweiz’s aircraft, is an example of one who has been remembered in his hometown. He had become engaged just two months before the crash.

His fiancée’s hometown newspaper on Jan. 1, 1943, noted the couple’s tragic end.

“The airways romance of a young Portland (Ore.) woman, Jane Hildman, now an ensign in the Navy Nurse Corps, ended Wednesday in the Salton Sea in California, where a navy plane crashed.”

The Salton Sea remains an unrecognized memorial to lost dreams and careers of more than three dozen young men like Lieutenant Carlson.

“People don’t have any interest in it anymore,” said Marocco. 

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Nationally syndicated Buz Sawyer newspaper cartoons incorporated Imperial Valley aviation training into their World War II storylines. - Cartoons by Roy Crane, distributed by King Features Syndicate

IVC

LIFT Program Imperial Valley College is preparing a new generation of industrial workers through its LIFT program, a workforce initiative that is already creating diverse employment opportunities even as the region anticipates the arrival of the lithium industry.

LIFT, which stands for Lithium Force Training, was initially conceived to build a skilled workforce for the expected boom in local lithium extraction. However, the program's curriculum has proven to have a far broader application, placing graduates in a variety of critical local industries long before the first pound of lithium is processed.

Efrain Silva, Dean of Economic and Workforce Development, emphasized the program's versatility. "These programs, although they were built around the lithium need, they are not lithium exclusive," Silva stated.

"We have been placing students with

that is humongous... You're the one in control -- that is very very rewarding," Soto said.

Forges workforce The program's success and high beyond lithium standards have not gone unnoticed. The curriculum has earned national recognition from the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC) cities and their water plants, other industrial and was even honored with a recognition operations, [and] geothermal chemical lab award from the White House, solidifying its operations. So, there's a very broad level of credibility. opportunities for students for employment."

While graduates are already finding At the heart of the LIFT program success in existing industries, Silva is a focus on instrumentation, the encourages prospective students to see technology and systems that monitor the program as a gateway to the future and control industrial processes. Javier of Imperial Valley's economy. He advises Soto, a LIFT instrumentation instructor, anyone interested in the coming wave of described the essential nature of this industrial jobs to enroll now and get ahead field. "Instrumentation is the eyes and the of the curve. ears of a plant," Soto explained. "Without "Even though the lithium jobs are instrumentation you cannot run a plant." not here yet, anyone that is interested The hands-on training gives students in, perhaps, looking at some kind of the skills to manage complex systems, industrial certification—those lithium from controlling the level and pressure jobs that are underway— come and join on massive tanks to monitoring turbine IVC and be ready for those opportunities hydration temperatures and oil systems. when they come," Silva urged. The For the students who master these skills, LIFT program stands as a testament to the career path is both challenging and proactive workforce development, building fulfilling. essential skills for the industries of today "The challenge to be able to control a while preparing for the opportunities of level and pressure on the pressure tank-- tomorrow. 

Fall 2025

37

ARTIST'S CONTINUED FROM | PAGE 13

Sheryl Nash at her home studio. - Photo by Joselito N. Villero Among the collage of diverse artwork are several first-place award winners of art competitions at the California MidWinter Fair & Fiesta.

“I’ve participated in showing my work, and along the way I’ve met a lot of other artists,” Nash said. “I’ve made friends with these other artists, and I’ve tried to

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Fall 2025

start mentoring them a little bit in terms of encouraging them to put their work in exhibitions.”

Her love for the Imperial Valley is unique, as she is what many would call a transplant.

Of all the places she’s lived, she chose to settle down in El Centro with her husband, Dan, who passed away in 2014. Initially, she

managed Desert Trails RV Park and Golf Course, and later moved to a management position at Gio’s Mobile Home Estates.

“I probably moved on average about every three years of my life. So when we rolled into El Centro, I said, ‘You know what? I like it here.’ We moved here in ’98, and here I am.”

Born in Washington D.C. to parents who worked for the CIA, she moved with them frequently, spending much of her childhood with them in Southeast Asian countries.

Art became a form of expression for her.

From building mud sculptures as a young child to gluing rice mosaics, she was always creating art. As long as she can remember, she’s had a passion for creation.

Her international travels with her parents flamed an ongoing desire to travel as an adult, leading her to live at times in New Orleans, Mississippi, the Philippines, Japan, and Thailand.

Today, Nash’s priority, along with continuing her own artistic journey, is to weave together a web of artists from Imperial Valley, Mexicali, and beyond.

“I believe with all my heart that with the right backing, El Centro could become a dynamic multicultural and multinational art community and destination,” Nash said. 

KID WIsE Imperial Irrigation District:

Burrowing Owl Conservation Program Entries from Mrs. Canalez, T.L. Waggoner Elementary School

Liam Cota

Jasmine Alvarez

Melany Zavala

Dylan Humes Fall 2025

39

National Rec

Restoring Every

S

eptember marks National Recovery Month, and in recognition of the month, Imperial County Behavioral Health Services (ICBHS) wants those dealing with a substance use disorder to know that recovery is possible, and ICBHS is there to help.

This year, the theme for the month is

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Fall 2025

“Recovery is REAL: Restoring Every Aspect of Life.” In other words, those facing a substance use disorder can fully rebuild their lives once they recognize they have a disease, that they need help and that help is available for them.

“You can restore your life,” said Victoria Mansfield, ICBHS Deputy Director overseeing the Substance Use Disorder Services Division, also known as the SUD Treatment Program. “It’s a disease you can manage, and it’s treatable.

You can reach recovery.”

She added, “A whole person care approach is crucial for recovery.”

covery Month:

y Aspect of Life Once you begin steps toward recovery, you can regain your life, whether that means going back to school, or work, reconnecting with family and friends or re-engaging with the community. It’s all possible.

At ICBHS, the SUD Program focuses on a “whole” person treatment approach, meaning not just treating the substance use disorder, but also any underlying co-occurring conditions, like mental and physical health and addressing lack of housing, basic necessities or transportation— any issue that might hinder treatment and recovery. The program serves both adolescents and adults.

The treatment, Mansfield said, is provided in a “safe space” where the environment welcoming and people can express themselves without fear of judgement, ridicule, or harm.

“Peer support is a key component to SUD treatment”, she said, pointing out that those struggling with a substance use disorder need to know that they are not alone and that the disease affects people from all walks of life.

The SUD Treatment Program Offers the following services:

 Assessment  Individual and group therapy  Care coordination  Crisis intervention  Medication for Addiction Treatment (MAT)  Withdrawal Management  Medication services  Family therapy  Patient education  Recovery services  Contingency management (Recovery Incentive Program) The Recovery Incentive Program is a 24-week pilot program utilizing contingency management and evidencebased behavioral intervention proven to be effective in treating stimulant use disorder. The program provides immediate motivational incentives in the form of electronic gift cards for each negative drug test. It recognizes and reinforces positive change. .

“I see the participants get excited,” Mansfield said of the incentive program. “I see the motivation. It has been a very successful program.”

Another critically important

expanding development in SUD treatment for the Valley is that ICBHS has received nearly $40 million in state grant funding for two projects as part of the behavioral health expansion.

One project is the Adult Residential Treatment Facility that will be located in El Centro. The second project is The Northern Horizons Behavioral Health Expansion, which was recently conditionally approved, to be built in Brawley. That project will make SUD outpatient services accessible to members in the community residing in the north end of Imperial County, further expanding mental health treatment and whole person integrated care.

These two projects and other behavioral health expansion projects are increasingly important in Imperial County as SUD and Mental Health treatment referrals and admissions continue to rise each year. However, Mansfield noted that it is also an indication that the stigmas are breaking down, and that people are realizing they need support.

For those in need of support, contact ICBHS at (442)-265-1525 or call 1-800-817-5292. 

For an appointment call:

442 -265-1525 • (800) 817-5292 • NHS.IMPERIALCOUNTY.ORG Fall 2025

41

VETERANS CONTINUED FROM | PAGE 10

Assemblyman Jeff Gonzelez reads veterans' names enscribed on the Veterans Memorial in Bucklin Park.

- Photo by Bill Amidon Also missing from the state registry is the portion of Brawley’s North Western Avenue that was renamed Veterans Memorial Way last year.

In the press release the City of Brawley issued in October 2024 announcing the dedication of Veterans Memorial Way, then Mayor Ramon Castro, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, stated, “As a veteran, this renaming holds deep significance for me and for our entire community. Veterans Memorial Way is more than a street; it’s a permanent reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of those who have worn the uniform.”

In developing this story, it was noted that at least five, and possibly more, Valley memorials are not listed on the CALVET Registry. Currently, Imperial County, El Centro, and Calexico are in the process of applying to post memorials on the state registry.

Without information about the memorials, veterans and their families miss the opportunity to receive the recognition they

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Fall 2025

deserve.

Ed Castillo Rubio of El Centro, a Vietnam War veteran, knows the pain of coming home at a time when the nation was so divided over an unpopular war that returning soldiers often went unrecognized.

After enlisting in 1964, he served in the U.S. Army's 25th Infantry Division, nicknamed "Tropic Lightning," which was based in Hawaii with a mission to conduct operations in the Indo-Pacific region. Castillo Rubio was shipped out to Vietnam in 1966.

Memories of the horrors of that war still live with him.

When he returned to El Centro after his honorable discharge, he was bothered by the lack of support for veterans. He and other members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 9305 initiated an annual Memorial Day ceremony to honor the veterans of World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War interred in Evergreen Cemetery in El Centro. Castillo Rubio is proud that this tradition continues.

“The sacrifices of our veterans who served our country should be honored,” said Castillo Rubio. “I am a proud veteran, and I respect and honor my fellow veterans and their families.”

He added, “We should all respect and honor those who died and those who served.”

Memorials offer an opportunity for personal connection and reflection, providing a link between the past and the present.

Assemblyman Jeff Gonzalez, who represents Imperial County and is a 21-year U.S. Marine Corps veteran, said, “Memorials ensure that the names of our heroes live on, and that their sacrifice is not forgotten.”

He added, “Memorials are sacred spaces where we honor courage, reflect on service, and remind future generations that freedom is never free.” 

Innercare Cares for Imperial Valley WE ARE NOW ON YOUR FAVORITE SOCIAL MEDIA!

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Fall 2025

43

69th Annual

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Fall 2025