Summer 2022

Summer 2022

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Imperial Valley College has been named one of the 10 finalists for the 2023 nationwide Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, the first time the college has been included in this prestigious group.

Awarded every two years, the Aspen Prize honors colleges that show outstanding performance in five critical areas: teaching and learning, certificate and degree completion, transfer and bachelor’s attainment, workforce success, and equitable outcomes for students of color and students from low-income backgrounds. The winner of the $1 million prize will be announced in the spring of 2023.

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Publishers' Message Sometimes, we think with the spirit of a tour guide when we plan an edition of Imperial Valley Alive. With words and images, we take readers on an adventure into a region ripe with promise and possibility. Each twist in the road, or turn of a page, may reveal the unexpected. In each edition, our goal is to guide readers to a glimpse of something rare and unique to this Valley that is often overlooked or unseen, even by those of us who live here.

In mapping out this summer edition, we thought we had a clear destination in mind. Steer toward some geographic destinations, circle around some public art displays. Done. Yet a linear map cannot contain the soul of this remarkable region. The Valley’s heart pulses through its community spirit and commitment to working together to solve problems and create beauty.

With that realization, we invite readers to join us as we unexpectedly explore the special sweet sauce at the Valley’s core. As is often the case, the best surprises come in the least expected places – such as in the local election process. In this issue, you will

Spirit Alive in journey

read several articles about those who provided space and offered behindthe-scenes assistance to ensure the June Primary Election ran well.

Out of a sense of civic responsibility, numerous local residents, including some high school students, worked in various capacities under the supervision of the County Registrar of Voters’ permanent staff to properly handle and tabulate ballots. Their quiet service to preserve the sanctity of the right to vote stands in marked contrast to the bitter political and ideological debate dividing the nation.

And the Imperial Valley Coalition for Labor, Agriculture and Business (COLAB) took a different tack to help the election process. COLAB organized candidate forums to provide the public an opportunity to get information about the individuals who ran for the three open seats on the Imperial Irrigation District Board of Directors and two open seats on the Board of Supervisors.

The forums were held in person and streamed on Facebook. The public was invited to submit questions for the candidates. The forums were moderated and timed to ensure each

candidate received fair and equitable treatment. And the public had an opportunity to learn more about the candidates and issues than is available in abbreviated campaign advertising.

COLAB’s website also linked to Registrar of Voters information and to forums held by local chambers of commerce.

In this edition, you will read about just how far some Imperial Valley residents will go to help those in need. You won’t want to miss the article about volunteers who make up DeAnza Search and Rescue, who provide their own off -road vehicles, constantly train, and are always ready to help those who get lost in the desert. The group’s motto says it all: “So that others may live.”

They and the Aero-Squadron work with the Sheriff ’s Offi ce to help those who get off course in the desert.

And, for some sightly solutions to the ugly problem of graffiti, check out “Cascade of colors,” two different beautifi cation projects that are decorating sites in Brawley and El Centro. 

Summer 2022

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INDEX |

Volume 6, Number 3 EDITORS & PUBLISHERS Bill Gay Sue Gay Susan Giller Peggy Dale Bill Amidon

CONTRIBUTORS

Stefanie Campos Kristin O'Lear Darren Simon Charla Teeters-Stewart

COVER PHOTO Araceli Mangione

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Charla Teeters-Stewart Alejandra Noriega

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Alejandra Noriega

WEB DESIGNERS Jesus Uriarte Sergio Uriarte

SALES

Bill Amidon Heidi Gutierrez John Lovecchio

ADVERTISING

bill.amidon@reliancepr.com 760-693-5330

SUPPORT | UPLIFT |

Artists help spruce up cities, Page

6

MARVEL |

targazing tradition has ancient S history, Page 8

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Send name, address and email address along with $20.00 (plus tax) for annual subscription to:

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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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Summer 2022

COVER PHOTO: A Calipatria artist known as Tres applies finishing touches to his mural in downtown Brawley. - Photo by Araceli Mangione

taff, extra help play pivotal roles S in elections, Page 10 eens step up to help election T staff, Page 10

RESCUE |

olunteers work ‘so others may V live’, Page 12

INSIDE Pandemic left behind physical, emotional effects, Pages 14-15 innercare clinics grow alongside community, Page 16 COLAB helps build government accountability, Page 18

Traffic boxes wrapped in the art of local artists makes a walk through El Centro a colorful adventure for all ages. Pictured from left are Alex, Shelby and Lilli Teeters - Photo by Charla Teeters-Stewart

Kids Buzz, Page 20-21 Dining options, Page 22-24 Calendar of events, Page 26-27 ECRMC: Taking care of your mental health, Page 30

An Imperial County elections department staff member works on the June 7, 2022, election. - Photo provided by the County of Imperial

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UPLIFT |

Cascades of Color

By Charla Teeters-Stewart

- Photo by Charla Teeters-Stewart

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Summer 2022

The Imperial Valley is not known for being a colorful place.

An ombre of browns and greens is usually as exciting as it gets in the desert. Don’t get me wrong, we are a colorful place in many ways – food, politics, and culture. But visually, this area can be pretty uninteresting.

In recent months there has been a concerted effort to change all that. In Brawley and El Centro, a cascade of color has bloomed in main thoroughfares in the form of public art. The best part is that these efforts have had a 2-for-1 effect. Not only have they improved the view, but they have helped some long-held problems. One of these problems is ongoing graffiti-based vandalism. The utility and traffic signal boxes scattered throughout downtowns seem to be a favorite mark.

Vandals see these boxes as the perfect canvas for their "work."

The city of El Centro took a look at this issue and decided to “think outside the box." Using entitlement funds earmarked for graffiti abatement, the city decided to fight graffiti with approved art. El Centro Community Services Director Adriana Nava explained that the inspiration came from similar beautification efforts done in the city of Ramona.

To involve the public and attract quality art, a call went out to the public for design entries. Thirty designs were submitted. From these, 19 were chosen, a unique design for each box. Each design is printed on special UV-coated, antigraffiti vinyl material, which then is wrapped around the utility boxes.

“Using a local company, the

Artists help spruce up Valley cities

Sign Factory, was important to the city,” Nava said, “and they have done a great job with the printing and installation; each one looks beautiful.”

What surprised her most about the utility box project, Nava said, was “...to find out how much I enjoyed working with these local artists, helping make their visions come to life and bringing art to unexpected places. It is inspiring to see the joy these simple, colorful, boxes have sparked!”

Other groups are cooperating on beautification efforts in known problem areas. El Centro Public Works and the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) are cleaning up the North Imperial, Adams, and Fourth Street corridors There also is an overpass sign on Imperial Avenue along the Interstate 8 corridor, thanks to the efforts of Councilmember Cheryl Viegas-Walker, Nava said. Other groups are working to secure CalArt grants, which will fund community murals and other projects around the city, she added.

Nava is happy with how others are jumping on board. "To see other organizations, as well as other facets of El Centro city government start similar beautification efforts in our city is very satisfying.”

In Brawley, recent beautification efforts are striking.

Driving east along Main Street in Brawley, a striking new pop of color is unmistakable. Once a monochrome tan, a building owned by Tony Reynosa has been transformed and now sports a field of “Brawley Blue.”

Iconic hometown images cut through its crisp block letters.

This mural is the culmination of the vision and efforts of Brawley

Union High School graduate and current Imperial Valley College art history instructor Araceli Mangione.

Each time she drove through Brawley to visit her parents, she would see that big blank wall. And she would try to think of ways to fill it with color and life. One day she walked into Drop Box Mattress, spoke to business owner Joel Dominguez, and got the ball rolling. She secured permission from the building/ business owners. And the City Council bought into her vision. Next, a call for entries was broadcast.

Mangione said “We had great entries, such creativity. And I was so thrilled when Ms. Casey’s eighth grade class from Barbara Worth Junior High School submitted eight entries, all of them great, all of them capturing the spirit of Brawley.” Amanda Casey is an art teacher at the school, according to the school website.

The ultimate winner was artist Jesus Lopez. With the design chosen, Mangione began fundraising. She said she felt “blessed by the generosity and support of organizations like the North County Coalition for the Arts (NOCAA) and Los Amigos de la Communidad.

They stepped up, no problem, providing

Jaziel Gutierrez does touchup work on the Brawley mural to get rid of chalk lines.

- Photo provided by Araceli Mangione us with the funds and supplies we needed. KC Rental was amazing, and gave us a big discount on the lift needed.

The community really supported the project and that made everything smooth. I can’t say thanks enough.”

The mural, titled “Greetings From Brawley,” was revealed to the public on April 16. The mural, fashioned to look like a postcard from Brawley, incorporates many of the city’s iconic images.

Mangione hopes to continue her

efforts. She has formed the Imperial Valley Public Arts non-profit organization for this purpose. For more information on how to help, visit www.ivpublicarts.org or visit her on Facebook at Imperial Valley Murals or on Instagram @iv_public_arts.

She is already on the hunt for the next perfect blank wall.

If it has been a while since you drove through El Centro and Brawley, it’s time to hop in the car. Crank up the A/C, take your time, and enjoy the vibrant public art displays. They will make you smile! 

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MARVEL |

Imperial Valley Desert Museum staff and visitors gaze into the night sky - Photo provided by IVDM

Kumeyaay Cosmology

Astronomy. Stargazing. Maay Uuyow.

The night sky filled with stars, moons, and planets held within are things of wonder: they capture our imagination with ideas of meaning, deep stories, and our place among them. It may surprise you to know that the tradition of observation, storytelling, and cosmology is an ancient one. It has local roots here in the history and culture of the Imperial Valley’s First Peoples.

Just like children and adults today come out to the desert to escape city lights and appreciate the universe around them, so too did those who came before us. For the Kumeyaay, the extensive study and stories produced by that wonder is Maay Uuyow – sky knowledge, evidence of which is ever-present in the landscape of the Imperial Valley.

seek to center humans in the world around them. This is true of the ancient Romans and Greeks, whose mythological gods and goddesses ruled over both the earthly realm and the afterlife. The idea that earth is not the only home or plane of existence is not uncommon.

For the Kumeyaay the universe exists on three planes, referred to as “shells,” which incorporate the sky world, the earth, and the underworld. While each of the three planes exist independently, they can be interconnected at various points through different “portals” or “doors.” Individuals attuned to the existence of these portals, are also able to harness and use spiritual power. The observation of these cycles is incredibly important to the Kumeyaay, not just for recording the passage of time or the change of seasons, but also as an underpinning of their “faith, understanding, and gratitude for existence,” as Michael Connolly Miskwish wrote in “Maay Uuyow: Kumeyaay Cosmology.”

Developing a world order

Telling stories and telling time

By Kristin O’Lear Interim Executive Director, Imperial Valley Desert Museum

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Ancient tradition has local roots

Across various cultures and peoples throughout time, there are stories that Summer 2022

The constellations we know and gaze upon today were also observed

by the Kumeyaay. While the groupings and patterns of the stars are ones we would recognize, the Kumeyaay named and identified them differently. These constellations represent important lessons to the Kumeyaay and serve as visual reminders of greater wisdom that extends beyond the earthly shell. They were also used as moral and ethical guides, divided into groups such as the Watchers and Deliverers of Punishment. The constellation Emuu or Mountain Sheep, which we would recognize as Orion’s Belt, is designated as one of the Watchers. As the name implies, it watches and observes human conduct, and guides people to travel the correct path. The Deliverers of Punishment serve as reminders to those who may stray from this path. Ewii, or Rattlesnake brings death upon the world, especially for those who are reckless.

Additionally, Kumeyaay Cosmology honors the cyclical pattern of celestial movements and the passage of time. The Kumeyaay year, or Kumeyaay Matt’aam, is divided into 13 lunar months and four seasons following seasonal equinoxes and solstices throughout the year. The fall

equinox on Sept. 21 marks the Kumeyaay New Year and reflects the beginning of the acorn harvest or Kli’a ‘Emul.

A staple protein for the Kumeyaay, acorns were used in the making of traditional foods such as Shawii. The most important date on the Kumeyaay calendar is the winter solstice on Dec. 21, known for its connection to the constellation Emuu.

Common structures used to celebrate the night sky and significant events for the Kumeyaay were observatories. They took many forms and shapes, ranging from cairns of rocks aligned with significant celestial patterns or “spoked wheels, crosses, lines, or a single rock.” One such observatory located near Ocotillo marked each seasonal event of the Kumeyaay calendar. The Ocotillo Observatory located on site at Imperial Valley Desert Museum was built to connect man with the night sky, honoring the traditional observatories of the Kumeyaay. The solar cycle is important to the Kumeyaay in their beliefs, stories and calendar, and this observatory was built to the solstices and equinoxes.

The walls are adorned with traditional Kumeyaay words and symbols. “Howka” is a traditional Kumeyaay greeting that means “may that fire within your body continue to burn brightly.”

Kumeyaay cosmology

Modern constellations - Photos provided by IVDM

A continued tradition

Kumeyaay Cosmology and join the Imperial Valley Desert Museum on Friday, July 29, 2022, for our Summer Stargazing Event. In celebration of the Kumeyaay’s recognition and special connection to meteors, the event celebrates the Delta Aquarids Meteor Shower. From the constellations of the night sky to the brilliant light flashes of meteor showers as they streak across the planet’s atmosphere, there is always something new to learn and experience in the world above us. 

Today, evidence of Kumeyaay cosmology is ever-present in the landscape of the Imperial Valley.

Incorporated into earthen arts such as geoglyphs, pictographs, and petroglyphs, and even painted onto pottery, the practice of observing the night sky played an important role in Kumeyaay beliefs and traditions.

To learn more about this tradition and its continued importance, read Michael Connolly Miskwish’s book Maay Uuyow:

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SUPPORT |

Workers, extra At the help play pivotal

polls

By Darren Simon

10

With the June 7 Primary Election fast approaching, the Imperial County Registrar of Voters (ROV) received a call from El Centro resident Marci Mallinger, asking how she and her husband, Pastor Pete Mallinger of Calvary Chapel, might help.

Her timing couldn’t have been better.

The Registrar of Voters office, which oversees election matters for the county, needed an extra polling site in El Centro.

Calvary Chapel was perfectly located. Not only were the Mallingers happy to offer space in the church for a polling site, they also took on the role of poll workers.

Mrs. Mallinger, who heads the women’s ministries at Calvary Chapel, said offering assistance is just what she does. “I have a heart that wants to serve and that’s how I felt about this.”

She added it “was God’s perfect timing,” that persuaded her to contact county Registrar of Voters Linsey Dale, who at that moment was searching for space for an additional El Centro polling site. Dale also needed poll workers.

Summer 2022

roles in local elections The Mallingers’ help points to how critical the human element of the election process is in Imperial County despite the major shift in how voters now cast their ballots that came about during the pandemic. Now most voters cast their ballots by mail.

Still, the county needs workers at polling places throughout the county, and extra help staff in the Registrar of Voters office play a pivotal role in supporting the complex process of managing the Primary Election.

“We could not survive without our poll workers,” said Dale, who was appointed county Registrar of Voters by the Board of Supervisors in January 2021. “They are there to assist voters and to answer questions and to make sure they (voters) understand how to use the tools necessary to cast their ballots.”

The extra help staff — eight in all — support Dale and her full-time staff that includes three other positions. “They work side by side with us to get the elections done,” Dale said.

For the Registrar of Voters office, each election represents a complicated process that includes:

Teens step up to help

While older adults have typically served as poll workers, there has been a concerted effort to reach out to younger residents. The effort has paid off, with a larger number of younger people joining the ranks of poll workers, including teenagers as young as 16.

Teen interest in working at local polling places was sparked in part by California Secretary of State Shirley Weber. She visited Calexico High School on April 26 and spoke of the importance of voting.

Imperial County Registrar of Voters Linsey Dale said her department also visited Southwest and Central Union high schools in El Centro and Holtville High School this year to share that same message about the importance of voting.

“It’s important to raise their awareness to help them become community and civic-minded adults,” Dale said.

She added the newer poll workers are teamed with more seasoned workers to ensure a sharing of knowledge, and the hope is that those serving for the first time will return each year to serve their communities and share their knowledge with the next generation of poll workers.

• Ensuring polling sites are properly staffed with trained workers • Collecting all ballots, no matter how they are cast • Processing the ballots through a rigorous signature verification check • And finally tabulating the ballots.

And everything done must comply with all election codes. The ultimate goal is to ensure every voter’s ballot is tallied — and every voter’s voice is heard through their ballot.

For the June Primary Election, nearly 20,000 voters cast ballots in the county.

In the November 2020 General Election, nearly 60,000 ballots were cast in the county.

Managing such numbers is a staggering task that requires support from civic-minded people working with the Registrar of Voters staff to ensure the completion of the election process from the casting of the ballots to the final certification of the results.

It is an effort that begins with the training of poll workers, who each go through a

four-hour course to learn the duties and responsibilities they must carry out at a polling site. In the Valley, there are 57 sites, and each site is staffed with four workers. In all, there are some 228 workers managing the sites.

Even as an increasing number of votes turn to mail-in ballots, there are still local voters who prefer to cast their ballots in person, Dale said.

“There is a large percentage of voters who still want to go in and hand their ballot to an election official, and this is a way they can do it,” she said, adding the polling sites “are like satellite offices to the elections office.”

Dale noted it has been difficult to find new poll workers, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, and she is hopeful more people will step up to participate in what basically is a paid volunteer position.

Following her experience as a poll worker, Mrs. Mallinger does not hesitate to encourage others to serve at the polls.

Elections department staff and extra She called her experience serving as a poll workers play a pivotal role at election time.

CONTINUED | PAGE25

- Photos provided by County of Imperial

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RESCUE |

DeAnza Search and Rescue members attend training workshops throughout the year so they are ready at a moment's notice to assist in rescue and recovery operations. - Photos provided by DSR

Desert rescue

By Charla Teeters-Stewart

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The Imperial Valley offers residents many unique recreational opportunities.

Hiking, off-roading, wildlife-watching, and backcountry exploration are available to us year-round. In the cooler months, we hook up the trailers, tie down the toys and pack up the kids.

Then we head out to enjoy a weekend in some part of the more than 8,000 acres of public lands here.

Our area is so unique that thousands travel long distances to experience the thrill of undulating dunes, enjoy the sights of the rugged backcountry, or explore old and fascinating remnants of ancient tribes and long-abandoned mines. And let's face it, the lure of driving really fast in expensive toys over wide-open spaces can be impossible to resist! So on holiday weekends, the Imperial Sand Dunes often welcome more than 100,000 visitors.

Relaxation and adventure await, Summer 2022

"So That Others May Live¨

but there are risks – especially in the desert. One miscalculation, wrong turn, broken part, or "can't happen to me" attitude can turn fun and games into an emergency in seconds.

A tragic example of this occurred on April 24, 1969. An El Centro group headed to Mount Signal for a Sunday school picnic. Several groups entertained themselves, looking for toads.

When it was time to eat, they all returned -- except for 8-year-old Keith Riley. No one knew where he was. So a search began immediately, coordinated by the county Sheriff's Department.

More than 100 people came out to help.

They used planes, jeeps, trackers, and even dogs, combing the area for any sign of the little boy. It took three days to find his body under a bush.

Gerald and Tammie Hamilton were part of that search in 1969. The tragic ending grieved them. They realized there was a need for a trained and

organized group, ready and able to assist law enforcement agencies. In response, the Hamiltons formed De Anza Search and Rescue (DSR.) Its motto – "So That Others May Live" – drives everything they do.

Tim Hamilton, son of the founders, is the organization's current president.

He said, "De Anza volunteers use their knowledge of the desert and our area, as well as their many skills, to help people come home to their loved ones."

Fortunately, most situations do not end in tragedy. Hamilton recalled an accident involving a couple on a nighttime run in the Superstition Mountains. They rolled their offroad RZR vehicle. The wife was injured, but the husband was able to go for help. All ended well when DSR found the woman, provided medical aid, and got her safely out of the desert.

There are still times when DeAnza Search and Rescue does respond to worst-case scenario calls. However, Hamilton said DSR's service is still

essential.

"We are here to help provide closure to families" by finding and returning the bodies of their loved ones.

At any given time, approximately 24 volunteers form the active team of DSR. Each person donates their time, resources, and equipment. And they train monthly to hone search and rescue skills. In addition, team members train with the Imperial County Sheriff 's Aero-Squadron. Formed during Sheriff Oren Fox's tenure, the Aero-Squadron consists of about 22 volunteers, each using their own planes. Capable of flying as low as hundreds of feet off the ground, the AeroSquadron is crucial in many missions.

Recently, the Squadron helped the Sheriff 's Office arrest a suspect in an arson case that involved a recent series of haystack fires.

Each pilot must pass a background check and a six-month probation period. Squadron members train together regularly to keep their skills sharp. And together with the DSR and the Sheriff 's Office, they run real-time practice scenarios.

Steve Reeves, commander of the Squadron, has volunteered for eight years. He said, "I had the skills and the resources to help others in need, and I believe it is an obligation we all have to better our community."

Yvonne Naud has been the Sheriff 's Office Volunteer Group liaison for more than 16 years. She coordinates communication and organizes the logistics for the rescue.

"The Sheriff 's Department is very supportive of our efforts, and I can't say enough about the exceptional job Yvonne has done coordinating efforts and getting us the support we need," Tim Hamilton said.

Members of the Imperial County Sheriff's Aero-Squadron are recognized for their service at a Sheriff's Volunteer Appreciation Dinner. From left: Henry Proo, Ted Gallinat, Brian Floyd, Squadron Commander Steve Reeves, and Sheriff-Elect Fred Miramontes.

CONTINUED | PAGE 28

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Summer 2022

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NATIONAL PTSD AWARENESS MONTH

Pandemic leaves behind lasting physical, emotional effects

w

ith June designated as National Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness Month, it is critical to bring attention to the services available to Imperial County residents who have faced trauma. Additionally, it is important to recognize that the COVID-19 pandemic has become a traumatic event with lasting physical and emotional effects.

Congress established June as National PTSD Awareness Month in 2014. The goal was to bring greater attention through awareness campaigns to this long-standing mental health issue first diagnosed in 1980 by the American Psychiatry Association.

While traumatic events like combat and disasters can cause PTSD, today COVID-19 can be added to the list of factors that can lead to PTSD, even as the world—and the Imperial Valley— begins to recover from the pandemic.

The effects of Covid-19 can

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Summer 2022

be seen at a national and local level as people are struggling with the losses of loved ones and friends, the long period of isolation, and the stress of losing work, which may have led to food and housing insecurities.

Additionally, those who work in fields directly impacted by COVID, like first responders and health care providers, are among those more vulnerable to experiencing PTSD symptoms.

Imperial County Behavioral Health Services (ICBHS) wants the community to know PTSD affects both adults and children, and that ICBHS staff is well trained to engage with all age groups in need of care.

“Our goal is to provide a safe place for individuals seeking mental health treatment and to ensure they feel empowered to have a voice in their treatment,” said Jose Lepe, Deputy Director at ICBHS in charge of Children Services.

When it comes to treating children and teens, Lepe said ICBHS utilizes Trauma Focused

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), an evidenced based treatment model that brings together children and their parents to help them learn how to process thoughts and feelings related to traumatic life events and to manage and resolve distressing thoughts, feelings, and behaviors related to traumatic life events.

Through the model, the child learns new skills with the support of their ICBHS therapist and their parents to address the mental health challenges they are facing.

Lepe pointed out ICBHS works in partnership with community agencies and schools, to help identify youth in need of care.

ICBHS actively participates in outreach events to ensure the community is aware of available supports. Additionally, ICBHS offers a prevention and early intervention program with mobile therapists who can reach out to children and families in their homes before a child’s mental health struggles

D

uring National Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness Month, which is designated in the month of June each year, it is critical to bring attention to the services available to Imperial County residents who have faced trauma. Additionally, it is important to recognize that the COVID-19 pandemic has become a traumatic event with lasting physical and emotional effects. escalate.

On the adult side, care for those struggling with trauma is equally critical. While there are numerous stressors that can lead to trauma in adults, COVID-19 has become one more factor.

“There are people who have experienced traumatic grief along with exposure to the pandemic and the prolonged distress related to that,” said Mary Esquer, Behavioral Health Manager for Adult and Older Adult Services.

Adult Services utilizes Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), an evidenced based model, to care for those adults struggling with PTSD “to change the way they think about themselves and the world and the trauma they faced.” “The goal is to change their outlook

on life, it helps them challenge their negative thoughts and perspective of the world”, Esquer said.

The first step is for those who may need care to reach out to ICBHS and begin with a clinical assessment where trained therapists will determine a diagnosis and treatment options to support each individual on their journey toward recovery. 

202 N. Eighth St. • El Centro, CA 92243 For appointment call: (442) 265-1525 • (800) 817-5292 bhs.imperialcounty.org Summer 2022

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innercare Now known as innercare, what began as a grassroots medical clinic more than a half century ago continues that way today.

Over that time, it has had three names—each one reflecting growing service to the community.

“Over the past 50 years, our clinics have met the challenge of providing health services to the communities we serve through foresight, dedication and grassroots involvement,” said innercare Chief Executive Officer Yvonne Bell.

“While our names have evolved with our growth, care for the health of our communities has remained our primary focus. That is our heritage and we are proud of it,” she said.

From its original roots in Brawley in 1970, innercare today can be found in nine other communities in the Southern California desert region. In addition to Brawley, it has clinics in Blythe, Coachella, Mecca, Niland, Hemet, West Shores, Winterhaven, Calexico and El Centro.

“The name change was intended to unite all of our community health centers under one name as well as highlight our growth,” Bell said.

While maintaining its original services to farm workers and their families, innercare’s patient base today has expanded to include anyone who needs health care.

Today it offers an array of services, including ADULT CARE: Sick and well exams, chronic disease management and physicals.

WOMEN'S HEALTH: Prenatal care, cervical and breast cancer screening other services.

SPECIALTY SERVICES: Pediatric neurology, chiropractic, orthopedics,

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Summer 2022

Clinics grow alongside community

rheumatology and other services.

TELEHEALTH: Retinal screening, dermatology, behavioral health It accepts most private insurance plans as well as Medi-Cal and Medicare.

In the late 1960s a nationwide movement to provide social and health services to migrant workers began. In April 1970, the movement led to the formation of a steering committee with Brawley’s Casa de Amistad serving as the catalyst.

On October 5, 1970, the doors of Clínicas de Salubridad de Campesinos opened to provide health care to Imperial Valley's farm workers.

The Board of Directors was established with eight elected consumers who in turn appointed five professionals from community agencies.

The Board's mission was to provide high-quality grassroots health care in a sensitive manner to the community within the limited funds allocated by federal and state agencies.

In 1971, the clinic was serving 400 families who were largely Hispanic, unemployed and indigent. Within the same year, the clinic became independent from Casa de Amistad.

In 1973, dental services were added, followed by the nutritional services for women, infant and children by the (WIC) program in 1974.

As the years passed, the number of patients increased and the clinic could no longer meet the needs of the community with the existing facility.

In 1978, the original Brawley clinic facility was renovated, and a satellite clinic -- the Calexico Family Health Clinic -- was opened. Before the year ended, it had changed its name to reflect its growing services. Clínicas de Salubridad de Campesinos became

Clínicas de Salud del Pueblo, Inc. By the end of the 1970s, innercare had developed a network with learning institutions. This network continues to provide valuable opportunities for medical and nursing students to gain clinical experiences and the community youth to gain experience in the working world. In addition, innercare networked with community agencies to provide needed health services outside the realm of primary care. innercare welcomed its second decade by expanding services into Riverside County with the opening of the Blythe Family Health Clinic.

Since this clinic was the only provider in the area meeting the needs of the medically indigent population, the County of Riverside contracted with the Blythe Clinic to provide services traditionally provided by the public health department.

As the 1980s progressed, health care regained national attention. This time the attention was not on the migrant workers, but on the increasing cost of health care coupled with startling new medical research.

This research demanded innercare to increase its efforts in the battle against community health problems.

In response, innercare initiated a disease prevention/health promotion campaign geared towards pesticides, sanitation, hypertension, high blood pressure, cholesterol, and sexual activities including AIDS. Additionally, innercare armed the medical professionals in the community with the opportunity to stay abreast with current research by bringing the Eisenhower Hospital Annenberg Center's medical teleconferences to Brawley twice a CONTINUED | PAGE 29

COLAB forums

Building accountability in government

In the months leading up to the June 7 Primary Election, the Coalition of Labor Agriculture and Business of Imperial County (COLAB) went back to the basics.

COLAB organized and held a series of candidate forums where the public had a chance to question and learn about all the individuals running for elective positions on the ballot for the Imperial Irrigation District Board of Directors and the Imperial County Board of Supervisors.

It was the first time since the pandemic began that COLAB’s forums were held in person instead of just virtually. Following the in person forums, the organization streamed the forums via Facebook Live to make them accessible to a wider audience.

Yet whether held in person or virtual, candidate forums are fundamental to COLAB's purpose.

"COLAB works to lead the effort to improve local government to create a better future for Imperial County," COLAB Executive Director Shelby Trimm said.

Creating a better community does not just happen. It takes the involvement of many to ensure that the county has elected officials in decision-making positions who are responsive to all.

"Community involvement is key to making sure we have transparency and accountability in our local government," Trimm said.

COLAB is neither partisan nor political. And it does not endorse candidates, which makes it uniquely positioned to host impartial candidate forums.

Starting in April, COLAB organized and conducted five inperson candidate forums during the June 7 Primary Election cycle. It held separate sessions for the Imperial Irrigation District Board of Directors, Division 1, 3, and 5 candidates. It also had forums for the Imperial County Board of Supervisors District 1 and 5 candidates.

The Greater Brawley and Greater Calexico chambers of commerce conducted separate forums for Sheriff 's candidates, District Attorney candidates, the County Assessor's candidates, and the County Recorder's candidates. In the future, COLAB hopes to coordinate more on candidate forums with the chambers of future forums All the forums ran with rules that provided each candidate fair and equal opportunity to present his or her position. Each candidate had equal time for opening and closing statements and time to answer a series of questions. Some questions came from COLAB and its members. The public also was invited to submit by email questions for the candidates to the COLAB website in advance of its forums.

David Cañez, who has moderated numerous local forums, ensured the conduct of the candidates and the audience abided by the rules at each session. And a timekeeper kept candidates within the allotted time limits.

Holding moderated candidate forums lets all voters get to CONTINUED | PAGE 29

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Summer 2022

IVVGA tasty with care The sights and smells of Imperial Valley melon and onion harvests wrapping up in early July may make consumers hungry. Yet the backstory adds intrigue and drama to the produce for which consumers clamor. It also explains why the Imperial Valley Growers Association (IVVGA) is vital to the produce industry.

To get to harvest, produce growers must face the whims of nature, demands of market pressures, and an everincreasing focus on food safety. The melons and market onions still being harvested in early July are products of that pressure.

Valley spring melon and onion harvests were shifted to early summer to avoid Mexican and off shore produce harvests that come to market through mid-May, according to Thomas Cox, first vice president of IVVGA. He said his family’s Coastline Family Farms, like many other local melon and market onion growers, is just now finishing up the harvest of its locally grown personal watermelons.

“We usually finish around July 4,” Cox said, “but with a cool spring, the crop got off to a slow start.”

With its year-round growing season, the Imperial Valley lets growers modify the harvests to get to market in the narrow window between the off shore product and the start of the central Valley harvest. Valley growers can make planting and harvest adjustments to a point.

“We have all the advanced technology and new things on the market to protect crops,” Cox said. “But in the end, you cannot beat nature.” He said that if the melons stay in the ground as the temperature soars, summer pests and scalding heat can destroy the crop.

Once the melon and onion harvests finish, summer becomes a slower season for many Valley produce growers.

Because Coastline grows and ships year-round, Cox said he is busier now harvesting in Salinas and Tracy.

Despite his schedule, Cox did not hesitate to take on a leadership role in IVVGA. “It is part of a family tradition to be of service,” Cox said.

His grandfather, Don Cox, was elected and served three terms on the Imperial Irrigation District Board of Directors.

And Thomas Cox’s father, Larry Cox, has long been involved in IVVGA and was one of the local growers on a statewide panel that proposed the first on-farm food safety program following a 2006 E. coli outbreak in spinach.

Thomas Cox was still in college when that early outbreak occurred, yet all he has learned makes him more committed to making food safety practices central to everything done onfarm. IVVGA provides produce growers with education and advocacy in the ever-evolving arena of food safety issues.

“With all the joy and pride we get out of feeding the nation, we definitely don’t want anyone getting sick,” Cox said.  Summer 2022

19

Imperial Irrigation District: Conserving Desert Species 2022 entries from Mrs. Falkenstein's 3rd grade class at Cross Elementary School. Top 4 winners.

Ivanna Franco Age 8

Jaslene Morales Age 9

Joe Gonzales Age 9

Santiago Tapia Age 10

NOURISH |

Valley's Eateries

Imperial Valley's homegrown restaurants offer lots of tasty choices.

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

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

Foster Freeze $ 130 N. 5th St, Brawley, CA 92227 760-344-7566 https://fostersfreeze.com

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

Habit Burger $ 2335 S. 4th St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-997-7805 www.habitburger.com

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

Denny's $$ 3403 Dogwood Rd. El Centro, CA 92243 760-337-9023 www.dennys.com Dogwood Sports Bar & Grill $$ 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

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

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Summer 2022

Burgers & Beer 260 N. Imperial Ave., El Centro, CA 92243 760-353-4431 https://bit.ly/3h44J1n

Farmer Boys $$ 1532 Cruickshank Dr, El Centro, CA 92243 760-336-0227 www.farmerboys.com

Hope Café and Creperie $ 605 E 2nd St, Calexico, CA 92231 760-890-5259 https://bit.ly/3zyZAXd Hope Café and Creperie $ 1027 W State St. El Centro, CA 92243 442-283-5092 hopecafeelcentro.com

Locally Owned

$10 & under per person

Beer/Wine only

$20 & under per person

Full Bar

Over $20 per person

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

Shake & Wake $ 1490 N. Imperial Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 442-283-5100 https://bit.ly/3EalJfZ

Leroy's Backyard BBQ $$ 401 Broadway, El Centro, CA 92243 760-675-6546 https://bit.ly/3iLMFLP

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

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

Panera Bread $$ 2321 S. 4th St, El Centro, CA 92243 Hot Rod's & Beer $$ 760-332-6499 235 West E 5th St, www.panerabread.com Holtville, CA 92250 760-356-9900 https://hotrodsnbeer.

Pepper Grind com Coffee $ 1560 Pepper Dr, Humble Farmer El Centro, CA 92243 Brewing $$ 116 S. Imperial Ave Ste C, https://bit.ly/3j3jcxd Imperial, CA 92251 760-545-0037 Red Feather www.humblefarmerbrewing.com Off-Road Market & Cafe $ IHOP $$ 1182 N. Imperial Hwy, 2362 S. 4th St, Ocotillo, CA 92259 El Centro, CA 92243 760-358-7389 760-352-1100 www.ihop.com https://bit.ly/3vwXwvY

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

The Original Town Pump Steakhouse 200 W Main St., Westmorland, CA 92281 760-344-3663 https://bit.ly/3wLlvch

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 Golden Dragon $$ 928 Imperial Ave. Calexico, CA 92231 760-890-0066 Hong Kong $$ 550 Wake Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-970-4497 https://bit.ly/3E4Wdcb

Khan Korean BBQ $$ 330 Wake Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-353-0202 https://bit.ly/3gy1hwY Kotori Japanese Food $$ 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 Sushi & Noodle $$ 800 N. Imperial Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 442-283-5075

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

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

Italian Food Assaggio Ristorante Italiano $$ 538 E St, Brawley, CA 92227 760-344-9750 https://qrco.de/Assaggio Chuck-E-Cheese $$ 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 $$ 505 Main St, Brawley, CA 92227 760-344-7744 https://bit.ly/3B7d1gH Inferno $$ 3451 S Dogwood Rd #1396, El Centro, CA 92243 760-970-4818 https://bit.ly/2Ze07Rp Italianos $$ 1523 Main St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-336-0336 italianoselcentro.com

Johnny Carino's $$ 3203 S Dogwood Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-337-9588 www.carinos.com

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

Mozzarelli Pizza & Gelato $$ 950 N Imperial Ave, (inside Strikezone) El Centro, CA 92243 760-353-3300 https://bit.ly/3q7g4l2

Mexican Food

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

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

Celia's Restaurant $$ 1530 Adams Ave., Flautas & Sopes $ El Centro, CA 92243 1622 S 4th St, 760-352-4570 El Centro, CA 92243 www.celiasrestaurants.com 442-283-5090 www.flautasysopesusa.site Cilantros La Taqueria $ 643 S 4th St Ste 1, El Centro, CA 92243 760-693-5337 https://bit.ly/3gBgdJu D’Lupita's Restaurant $$ 336 W 5th St, Holtville, CA 92250 760-356-7100 https://bit.ly/3gwwvo5

Antojitos Como En Casa $$ 425 Desert Gardens Dr., El Centro, CA 92243 760-482-5621 D'Poly Taco, Grill & antojitoscomoencasa.com Beer $$ 1573 W. Main St, Asadero El Centro, CA 92243 Neighborhood $$ 760-970-4243 220 W Birch St. https://bit.ly/35vdKLw Calexico, CA 92231 760-357-0890 https://bit.ly/39LddL2 El Cañon $ 625 Main St, Birrieria y Brawley, CA 92227 Menuderia 760-344-2411 Guadalajaras $

Flautas & Sopes $$ 1531 Ford Dr, El Centro, CA 92243 760-336-0825 www.flautasysopesusa.site Flautas & Sopes $ 715 Cesar Chavez Blvd, Calexico, CA 92231 760-357-0655 www.flautasysopesusa.site Hacienda Market & Snack Bar $ 941 K St, Brawley, CA 92227 760-344-5542 https://bit.ly/3b0ILJR Holtville Taco Shop $ 404 E 5th St, Holtville, CA 92250 760-356-5756 www.holtvilletacoshop.com Jalisco's Bar & Grill $$ 844 N. Imperial Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-353-2515 https://bit.ly/3nhTvsZ

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

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 Summer 2022

23

Karina's Mexican Food $$ 845 Adams Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-337-0027 https://bit.ly/3njjQXG Johnny's Burritos 301 Wake Ave., El Centro, CA 92243 760-353-0963 https://bit.ly/3cLY2Qb

Kennedy's Taco $ 1560 Ocotillo Dr, El Centro, CA 92243 760-970-4019 https://bit.ly/3m8DAOx La Birrieria Red Tacos $ 710 Heil St, El Centro, CA 92243 (760) 970-4406 https://bit.ly/2SHS77N

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

La Resaca $$ 143 S. 6th St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-592-4971 https://bit.ly/3vFQox3 Las Californias Foods $ 1133 Main St, Brawley, CA 92227 760-623-7122 https://bit.ly/3gN9vkP Las Chabelas Restaurant $$ 749 S. Brawley Ave, Brawley, CA 92227 760-351-2991 www.laschabelas.com

La Fonda Bar & Grill $$ 1950 S 4th St #1, El Centro, CA 92243 760-353-6450 https://bit.ly/3E23yJm

Las Palmitas Taco Shop #1 $ 2003 S. 4th St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-352-2757 https://bit.ly/3gwEUYH

La Fuente Restaurant $ 737 Emerson Ave, Calexico, CA 92231 760-357-5760 https://bit.ly/2ZcppyX

Las Palmitas Taco Shop #2 $ 880 Adams Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-370-9120 https://bit.ly/3cL3jr0

Letty's Casita $$ 705 S. 4th St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-352-8170 https://bit.ly/3wBPpPV Los Cabos Seafood & Grill $$ 201 N. Imperial Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-693-5393 https://bit.ly/35xq51E Los Cerritos Restaurant $ 411 E 5th St, Holtville, CA 92250 760-756-3097 https://bit.ly/35yM1t9 Ma Lupe's $$ 390 W. Aten Rd, Imperial, CA 92251 760-355-1180

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

Nana Dora's 103 W. K St., Brawley, CA 92227 760-344-2677 https://bit.ly/2S3kWex

Sobe’s Restaurant 1151 S. 4th St., El Centro, CA 92243 760-352-6838 https://bit.ly/2Uf9q0t

Nana’s Kitchen 502 W. Aten Rd., Imperial, CA 92251 760-457-6077 https://bit.ly/3zCHvri

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

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

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

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

Puerto Nuevo Patio & Grill $$ 395 Broadway, El Centro, CA 92243 760-336-0430 https://bit.ly/3iMIrUj

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.

FREE Large drink with a purchase of any taco plate

Valid thru October 10, 2022

24

Summer 2022

POLLS CONTINUED FROM | PAGE 11

worker a blessing. She said not only did she and her husband serve, but they put the word out to their church about the need for election help and others came forward to be poll workers.

She said serving as a poll worker allowed her to see people she hadn’t seen for some time, and she was able to reconnect with them.

Assisting by being a poll worker was also a way to honor and serve the nation, she added.

“Each one of us has a responsibility to our nation, “ Mrs. Mallinger said. “For me, I was going to take care of the ballots and not let anything happen to them and in that way honor those who fought and sacrificed for our country.”

Also important are the extra help staff members who join the ROV during the election season. The individuals who sign on as extra help during elections fill roles critical to the conduct of an election.

Some may answer phones or help the full-time ROV staff process and tally ballots.

“We depend heavily on the extra help,” Dale said. “We have thousands upon thousands of ballots to process, and their support helps us in so many different aspects.”

Technology also is critical to the conduct of elections today. This year the county Registrar of Voters debuted a new mail-in ballot processing system, called Agilis. It sorts and opens ballots and even scans signatures, which speeds up the work election officials must do to verify ballots.

Under Dale’s leadership, the county is also looking to better serve voters by moving from traditional polling sites to a newer model known as voting centers.

Voting centers, which are used in an increasing number of California counties, take the place of polling sites. Under this model, rather than every precinct having a polling site, there would be larger voting centers strategically set up in the county, all with access to the county elections database.

That model lets voters cast their ballot at any voting center they choose, regardless of where they live in the county. In addition to increased flexibility for voters, voting centers are more cost effective.

Dale acknowledged there are key details to be addressed, such as selecting appropriate sites that offer easy access and ensuring access to public transportation for voters who need it.

She said the goal is to develop this model for the county in 2023 when there are no elections planned and to bring the voting centers online in 2024.

An elections department staff member works on the June Primary Election. - Photo provided by County of Imperial However, even with new technologies and more options for voting, the ROV will need civic-minded residents to help conduct elections.

Dale said she is thankful for the work of her full-time staff and for community members willing to serve as poll workers and as extra help support staff.

Mrs. Mallinger said serving as a poll worker is not as daunting as some may think. She said it is “a simple process” to become a poll worker, and the support and education provided by the county help make it both a fun and easy-to-manage role.

“It’s about being a part of the system and having a voice in it and being involved in your community in this new facet,” she said, adding she and her husband look forward to serving again for the November General Election. 

Summer 2022

25

Calendar of Events July, August, September COVID-19 and flu community vaccine clinics 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays, 935 Broadway, El Centro.

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.

In July, clinics will be held July 5-7, 1214, 19-21, and 26-18.

August dates are Aug. 2-4, 9-11, 16-18, 23-25, 30-31.

September clinic dates will be Sept. 1, 6-8, 13-15, 20-22, 27-29.

July 5-28

July 14-Aug. 18

Summer Youth Academy Noon to 3 p.m. July 5, 6, 7, 18, 19, 20, 21, 26, 27, 28, 1073 Ross Ave., El Centro.

The no-cost event is open to 12-17 year-olds, teaching them to control anger through music and art. Snacks provided.

Farm to Summer 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Imperial Public Library Community Room, 200 W. 9th St., Imperial.

Explore Imperial Valley agriculture with Farm Smart. Each week will cover a vegetable grown in the Imperial Valley, highlighting the importance of eating healthy and being active every day.

Open to ages up to 18 years.

For more information, call 760-3553316.

July 14 Pathways to Success Expo 2022 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., Imperial Valley College. There will be workshops, lunch, and an education and job fair.

The event is open to ages 16 and older. Pre-registration is $5. For more information or to sponsor this event, contact the Imperial Valley Regional Chamber at 760-352-7413 or kayla@ ivregionalchamber.com

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Summer 2022

July 16 Community Clean-up Event 8 a.m. to noon, CR&R, 599 E. Main St., El Centro.

The City of El Centro reminds the community that this event is for El Centro residential customers only, who must show proof of residency.

Items that may be dropped off include furniture such as sofa beds, couches, tables; yard waste, large appliances, and televisions.

For more information, please contact CR&R Services at 760-482-5656.

July 28 Summer Resource Fair 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., Imperial Valley Mall Food Court, 3451 Dogwood Road.

Sure Helpline Center continues to collaborate with Imperial Valley communities by helping and supporting victims of sexual assault.

There will be raffles, giveaways and participation of local agencies. For more information call 442-2009930 or contact Gabriela Cabrales, gcabrales.surehelpline@gmail. com, or Mario Renteria, mrenteria. surehelpline@gmail.com.

Sure Helpline Center is located at 654 W. Main St., El Centro; phone, 760352-7878.

July 30

Rides & Coffee at Detail Garage Calexico 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., Detail Garage, 2300 Imperial Ave Ste G. Calexico.

Monthly family-friendly event features coffee, doughnuts, rides, DIY tech sessions and product giveaways.

Aug. 27 4NR: The Foreigner Concert Experience.

8 p.m. to midnight, Hot Rods and Beer, 235 W. 5th St., Holtville.

For ages 21 and older.

Sept. 3 Barbwire 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Hot Rods and Beer, 235 W. 5th St., Holtville.

For information on Barbwire, visit www.barbwirecountry.com

Sept. 10

City of El Centro Day at the Ballpark 5:40 p.m., Petco Park, 100 Park Blvd, San Diego.

Tickets are limited to watch the San Diego Padres vs. Los Angeles Dodgers.

Ticket price is $76 through July 22 or sooner if sold out. Each ticket holder will receive an insulated mini bag, until supplies last.

For more information, please contact the City of El Centro City Manager’s Office at 760-337-4540. 

Summer 2022

27

DESERT CONTINUED FROM | PAGE 13

The De Anza Search and Rescue Unit provides vital work for the Imperial County Sheriff's Office.

- Photo provided by DSR

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Summer 2022

Naud has nothing but praise for the volunteer groups. "(These groups) take their work very seriously. They work and train hard, they are dedicated and professional, and their work is vital to the Sheriff's Department."

Reeves considers Naud's work essential to the volunteers. "Yvonne has helped organize fundraising efforts for the organizations because unlike their counterparts in more metropolitan areas, these groups are not funded through a budget line item."

According to The California Office of Emergency Services, the volunteer groups provide services valued at $5,000 an hour. Yet the organizations and their members donate every piece of equipment and the maintenance and training costs. Only fuel costs are reimbursed.

How can you support these brave and committed volunteers? Thank them!

When you see them in the community, tell them how much you appreciate what they do for our community. And consider donating to help cover their expenses.

Even better… join them! Contact the Imperial County Sheriff's Office for more information on how you can support these organizations. 

INNERCARE CONTINUED FROM | PAGE 16

month.

By the end of the ‘80s, innercare was still expanding its services to meet the patients' needs by providing dental services to Calexico patients by the use of the mobile dental van. It also took a leading role in health education by initiating disease control/health promotion campaigns As the 21st Century approached, new clinics were opened to meet the growing demand for its services including a

12,500 square-foot facility in Calexico.

Growth continued with clinics opening in Niland (1993), El Centro (1994) and Mecca (1995). innercare also formed collaborative partnerships with a variety of medical, social services and governmental agencies to provide more comprehensive case management, referral and health services.

With the opening of its new headquarters building in El Centro the clinic celebrated its 50th anniversary by

adding even more services.

But through its expansion and growth in the numbers of patients, innercare also has continued its tradition of grassroots community-based care.

Its Mission Statement today is "To improve the health and well-being of the communities we serve through providing access to excellent care, available to all.” 

However, central to everything COLAB does is the effort to improve local government – which affects everyone.

COLAB encourages all voters to participate in each election cycle. And it does more. It provides information and links to data so voters can make informed decisions. The COLAB website, www.colabimperial.com, includes links for Imperial County, the IID, and local cities' agencies and agendas for local governmental meetings.

COLAB's website also links to the Imperial County Registrar of Voters, which contains information about

registering to vote, addresses of polling places and ballot drop-off sites, and much more.

And "COLAB maintains an online library of local election documents.

These documents allow the public to shed light on campaign spending and support that may influence the decisions of elected leaders during their time of public service," Trimm said.

By holding the candidate forums and providing access to information that helps voters get involved in the election process, COLAB takes another step toward its goal of leading the reform of local government. 

COLAB CONTINUED FROM | PAGE 18

know each candidate beyond slick campaign billboards, handouts, and advertisements.

Some wonder why an advocacy group would open its forums to those who may hold differing opinions. The answer lies in the foundation of COLAB. While COLAB continues to focus on crucial labor, farming, and business concerns, it "was formed as an advocacy group to address issues with the various departments within the County of Imperial organization," Trimm said.

Over time, COLAB's scope has broadened to include issues within IID.

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ECRMC The mind is a powerful organ and just like any other major organ, when sick or suffering, intervention is key.

“Everybody at some point in their life is anxious or depressed,” said Amanda Cuellar, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) at El Centro Regional Medical Center’s outpatient clinics in El Centro and Calexico.

Anxiety and not feeling like yourself are OK, she added. They are normal emotions.

“When we can’t control or handle (the anxiety and depression) and it’s overwhelming, that’s when we need to ask someone for help,” she said.

Examples include not being able to get out of bed, or if those feelings and emotions start taking over our daily lives.

Cuellar is originally trained as a family nurse practitioner and is board certified in both specialties, allowing her to treat patients comprehensively. That experience lends itself to recognizing symptoms stemming from a patient’s mental struggles.

Physical symptoms – headaches, lack of energy/motivation, trouble sleeping and concentrating, to name a few – may result from the patient’s anxiety and depression.

“Our mind and body are connected,” said Cuellar. “If we’re not mentally healthy, physically we’re not going to feel healthy.”

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If you’re experiencing anxiety and depression, Cuellar suggests telling a friend and talking about it. Reaching out to those we care about may help reinforce that we’re not in this alone and we have other people supporting us, she said.

If you don’t feel comfortable reaching out to a loved one, you can always reach out to the outpatient clinic.

Treatment through ECRMC may involve medication, therapy, or a combination of both.

“It’s up to the patient,” said Cuellar.

“I’m going to give you my suggestion.

Sometimes we need to take medications for our mental health.”

While stigma remains for taking medication for mental health, Cuellar Summer 2022

Taking care of your mental health reassures that it’s not any more dangerous than treatment for wellknown conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure.

Cuellar did note there has been an increase of acceptance within the Imperial Valley and suggests open communication with those you know who are struggling.

“Let people know you are going through it to talk about it,” she advises. “If you have a family member, kids or a friend, have that open communication.”

Mental disorders know no boundaries, she explained.

Rich or poor, young or old, just because you don’t have those symptoms, don’t discredit someone that has a mental disorder.

Ask questions such as: How are you feeling? Are you sleeping OK? Are you eating OK? Are we taking care of our actual human needs? For younger kids and adolescents, ask specific questions and provide them a “safe space for people to express themselves in that way.”

SELF-CARE

“I’m a huge believer in selfcare,” said Cuellar, “I think it’s so important.”

Cuellar suggests starting with something small and physical.

Going for a small walk or a bike ride in the morning or late in the evening, for example, releases happy endorphins, a natural antidepressant.

Other ideas include a yoga class or relaxation/meditation session on YouTube, reading a book, watching TikTok, getting a pedicure, doing a craft, listening to music … anything that brings a moment of joy and separation from the anxiety and depression.

“You have to see what works for you,” she said. “If you don’t know, you have to try.”

Oftentimes, mothers say they can’t find the time for themselves, but Cuellar warns, “If you’re not well, your kids will not be well.”

“If your physical health and mental

Amanda Cuellar - Photo courtesy of ECRMC health are not where they should be, you’re running on fumes taking care of them (the kids). … We need to be OK with ourselves saying, ‘I’m not going to clean today.’”

ECRMC offers a choice of a virtual visit or in-person at both clinics. Some insurances may require a referral, but if you’re not sure, the clinic will assist with determining the referral process.

For services, call and request an appointment at 760-482-5000. 

WE LISTEN Mental Health Services El Centro Regional Medical Center has resources, services and caring staff members to provide personalized and dedicated care to support your brain health and assist you in improving your overall health.

Services we offer:

Psychiatric assesment Individual counseling and psychoterapy Case management Services Medication support Referrals & assistance to secure community resources For more information or to schedule an appointment call (760) 482-5000.

ecrmc.org Summer 2022

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STAY AWAY, STAY ALIVE. NEVER SWIM IN CANALS NEVER PLAY NEAR CANALS NEVER JUMP INTO CANALS Dippy Duck wants to remind everyone to this summer.

Visit Dippy Duck’s Facebook page  / DippyDuckSafety or dippyduck.com for more information and activities.

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Summer 2022