Summer 2025
Publishers' Message
Why do some adjectives get such a bad rap when seasons change?
Why heap negative connotations on words like “hot” and “sizzling” when temperatures rise?
Who says words such as “icy,” “cold,” and “cool” are the ones worthy of a pedestal during the summer?
That doesn’t seem fair to writers devoted to using descriptive language to paint vivid images in their stories, or to readers who crave a good read. So, we refuse to be muzzled by judgmental word restraints.
We proudly offer you the Summer 2025 edition of Imperial Valley Alive, now hot off the press. Enjoy dipping your toes into an edition so full of well-written, hot topic stories that you won’t want to miss a single piece. Along the way, we think you will come to appreciate why it takes a full spectrum of words to tell the unique stories that boil up here.
Please join us as we explore the smoking hot community and meet some fascinating people through the unfettered lens of prose.
In this edition, you can read about how the Imperial Valley has become the hotbed of burrowing owl activity while the species is on decline elsewhere in California. Bird watchers and photographers see the Valley as a hot commodity because this is where they can catch a glimpse of the quirky little owls. However, controversy is brewing. A
Imperial Valley, where it's cool to be hot
proposal to impose statewide efforts to protect the species as endangered could have a chilling effect on agriculture and the Imperial Irrigation District, both of which maintain the habitat in which the owls thrive.
For this story, photos speak volumes. We are proud to share images of burrowing owls' antics provided by local photographer Wendy Miller. Miller says she fell in love with birds through her long-distance camera lenses. Her photos offer glimpses into the lives of the spirited and photogenic owls that often go unseen because their coloring provides such good camouflage they are invisible to most people. Spoiler alert: beware, you too may fall in love. Meanwhile, something ultra cool is brewing at the Salton Sea. The state recently took a significant step toward fulfilling its responsibility to restore the sea. You can read about how the state has recently begun filling ponds to create vast wetlands, replacing habitat lost to the shrinking Salton Sea.
Yellen hoped for, but it never dimmed his spirit or his willingness to speak out.
Even as we are thrilled to remember the past, we offer a glimpse at what lies ahead. Read about Ben Abatti III, a young farmer with a burning desire to help guide agribusiness to thrive well into the future. A recent graduate of the California Farm Bureau Agricultural Leadership program, Abatti is a member of the Young Farmers and Ranchers and serves on the Imperial County Farm Bureau’s Board of Directors.
The story about Abatti is featured in a new section, "Valley Agriculture and Business," that premieres in this edition.
You will want to read about one of the Valley’s colorful and historic firebrands, Dr. Ben Yellen, who took his passionate advocacy for the poor all the way to the Supreme Court. The high court handed down a decision that left an indelible mark on the region by protecting the way it can farm. It wasn’t the decision
This edition is packed with ways to get excited and ways to cool off. Read your way to fitness with those who get together to stay in shape by walking in the cool Imperial Valley Mall. Then, check out the story about the Imperial Valley Desert Museum, which recently used the rays of the summer sun to freeze natural images into photographic art. And read about some of the museum volunteers, who are always cooking up chill activities that will teach and inspire you.
This edition is full of these and more stories, plus a wealth of activities and events featured in the local calendar of events, so you, too, can join in the fun in the Valley, where it's never too hot to be cool.
- Photo by Wendy Miller
Volume 9, Number 4
EDITORS & PUBLISHERS
Bill Gay
Sue Gay
Susan Giller
Bill Amidon
CONTRIBUTING EDITOR
Darren Simon
CONTRIBUTORS
Bill Gay
Caitlin Chávez
Susan Giller
Blake Nelson
Darren Simon
COVER PHOTO
Wendy Miller
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Bill Amidon
Sue Gay
Wendy Miller
Joselito N. Villero
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Alejandra Noriega
Alejandra Pereida
WEB DESIGNERS
Sergio Uriarte
Jesus Uriarte
SALES
Bill Amidon
John Lovecchio
ADVERTISING
bill.amidon@reliancepr.com 760-693-5330
SUBSCRIPTIONS
Send name, address and email address along with $20.00 (plus tax) for annual subscription to: Reliance Public Relations, Inc. P.O. Box 1944 • El Centro, CA 92244
www.imperialvalleyalive.com
IMPERIAL VALLEY ALIVE! is published quarterly by Reliance Public Relations, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical for any purpose without the written permission of Reliance Public Relations, Inc.
Burrowing Owls
Find nirvana in Imperial Valley dirt Page 6
Salton Sea
Flowing into milestone restoration ponds
Page 8
Ben Yellen
Remembering a lone voice after 45 years Page 10
COLAB
Furthering civic engagement for good government Page 12
Cyanotype Activity offers unique Desert Museum learning experience
Trailblazing Volunteers
Desert Museum's with fun, educational hikes
Mall Walkers
Exercising in safe, cool space
Remembering Ed
McGrew An IVVGA founder, lived for Valley success Page 26
Ben Abatti III Profile of a young ag leader Page 28
Farm Smart Activities coming up
COVER PHOTO: A stern adult burrowing owl and a brood of curious chicks stand near their rural Imperial Valley burrow for a family portrait.
-Photo By Wendy Miller
15
INSIDE |
Publishers’ message, Page 3 Valley's Eateries, Page 18 Calendar of events, Page 22 9/11 Stair Climb, Page 24 Dove Hunting, Page 25
6
Burrowing Owls Finding nirvana in Imperial
Valley dirt
By Susan Giller
The Western burrowing owl may be a rising star in the eyes of environmentalists and bird watchers. However, its perpetual “back off ” scowl conveys a complete lack of interest.
And in the owl’s favorite California habitat, the Imperial Valley, public agencies are equally dubious of the celebrity spotlight glare because of the potential threat it poses to the region’s economic base and its famous feathered resident.
Who would think a small owl cloaked in dappled brown plumage that mimics the color of Imperial Valley dirt would draw so much attention?
Yet the unique ground-dwelling little owl, with piercing yellow eyes and adorable antics, is attracting a growing legion of fans and environmental concerns.
Scores of birdwatchers and photographers regularly flock to the Valley for a chance to see the owl. School children draw its image. And environmental groups now line up to protect the owl by restricting development and activities around its habitat throughout the state.
not want to watch them?” said Wendy Miller, an Imperial County public defender who moved to the Imperial Valley to feed her passion for photographing wildlife, especially the burrowing owl. “They have so much curiosity; they are endearing. I love sharing that with others.”
Her photos featured in this magazine and on numerous social media platforms provide endearing glimpses of the sometimes curious, sometimes quirky, always enchanting antics of burrowing owl life on ditch banks, near agricultural fields, and other open spaces throughout the Valley.
The 9-inch-tall owl, the only type of owl to nest in burrows dug in the ground, has become the darling of environmental organizations that want to protect it by limiting development and intrusion into its habitat. Environmental groups contend that the burrowing owl population in California is dropping to such low levels that it could become extinct in most of California. Estimates are that 60 to 70 percent of California’s burrowing owl breeding pairs now live and thrive in the Imperial Valley.
In October, the California Fish and Game Commission voted to list the Western burrowing owl as a “candidate” species under the California Endangered Species Act. Following a review, the commission will decide whether to list the species and impose limits on what can happen in their habitat.
“The owls are captivating. They have so much personality; how can you
“At long last, there’s a glimmer of hope for California’s rapidly disappearing burrowing owls, who desperately need protection,” said Jeff Miller, a senior conservation advocate at the Center for Biological Diversity, one of the environmental organizations that petitioned for the burrowing owl protection. “Burrowing owls have dwindled and vanished at an alarming rate around the state as their homes are bulldozed for irresponsible sprawl development.”
The Imperial Irrigation District and the Imperial County Board of Supervisors want the Valley region excluded from the designation because it would restrict renewable energy development, harm the local economy, and much is already being done to protect the species here. The IID argues the designation could jeopardize farming and the IID water operations, both of which provide the habitat in which burrowing owls thrive.
Owls often live in burrows dug along IID’s ditch banks.
They eat insects, spiders, snakes, and even small rodents, many of which live in agricultural fields.
In its petition to exempt Imperial and Coachella valleys from the listing, IID included reams of data compiled through 22 years of monitoring the owl and taking other steps to assist it since the implementation of an ongoing large-scale water transfer.
And then it decided to update evidence about the health of the burrowing owl population in
“We decided an upto-date survey (of burrowing owls) was necessary because an endangered listing could be severely restrictive, making our necessary operations, maintenance service area to document owls. The survey identified
and construction projects almost impossible,” said Jessica Humes, IID senior environmental project manager. She added that permits would be needed for the district to do its normal operations. The survey, conducted by consultant firm AECOM and IID employees from March through May, involved driving and walking throughout the district’s vast
-
4,500 pairs of owls in Imperial County, which is consistent with earlier surveys. Another 300 owl pairs were found in Coachella, which Humes said was a surprising increase from the 30 found in earlier surveys. Even without listing the burrowing CONTINUED PAGE 32
& Auto Deals Birthday Feels
Photos by Wendy Miller
Salton Sea
Flowing into milestone restoration ponds
By Darren Simon
On a warm May morning at the Salton Sea, California Natural Resources Agency Secretary Wade Crowfoot stood before a gathering of local, state, federal, and tribal leaders on an embankment overlooking the state’s fl agship restoration project.
Declaring it a “marker” day, he pressed a button atop an outlet that allowed water to begin fl ooding a pond covering some 2,000 acres over a three-mile stretch of land.
At fi rst, the water trickled, then surged with the force of a fl owing river. It signaled a critical milestone in the state’s Salton Sea restoration effort and a step toward establishing a new future for what may be one of the state’s most historic but troubled bodies of water.
“This day is a decade in the making,” Crowfoot told the crowd gathered at the Species Conservation Habitat Project (SCH).“It’s the result of the hard work and perseverance of the people here today,” he said.
The witnesses had gathered at what is the state’s lead proofof-concept restoration project located on the southeast corner of the sea in the Imperial Valley.
“In many ways, this day shouldn’t have happened, but it did happen. It shows challenges can be met,” Crowfoot said.
The celebratory event marked the fl ooding of what the state has called its East Pond Expansion, a key component of the habitat project. In its fi nal buildout, the habitat will consist of a series of ponds that will cover 9,000 acres. The project includes fi sh habitat, which will provide a food source for migratory birds. At the same time, the project will protect human health from potential exposure to toxic dust by covering exposed playa.
In its original design, the project was to cover about 4,100 acres, funded largely through a series of state bonds, Then, in 2024 the U.S. Department of the Interior added a total of $250 million
in federal funding to the mix, thanks to a water conservation agreement with the Imperial Irrigation District. The agreement allowed for an expansion that more than doubled the project’s size. The East Pond Expansion is part of that federally funded portion.
Standing on the embankment overlooking the expansion pond offers a glimpse into the effort to develop a new future for the Salton Sea, one that recognizes the sea's importance to the surrounding communities. It acknowledges the need for the sea as a critical habitat, the challenges faced in the West due to the changing climate, and the uncertainty of available water supplies. South of the embankment, water stretched as far as the eye can see in an already fl ooded pond. On the north side of the embankment was the new expansion pond. At the time of the celebration, it looked like a dry lakebed stretching to the edge of the sea’s actual shrinking shoreline. This summer, plans call for the East Expansion Pond to be fi lled, and work will progress on additional expansion ponds.
“This is a good day, but it is not a mission accomplished day,” Crowfoot said. “It’s a marker day, but we need to continue progress.”
In many ways, the habitat project represents an innovative solution to issues the sea has faced for years, including its status as an inland lake with no outlet and increasing salinity levels that far exceed the salt content of the Pacifi c Ocean. Compounding challenges are water quality issues caused by selenium, nutrients, pesticides, and
Water floods a new pond - Photo by Darren Simon
silt from the sea’s water sources.
On top of that, the amount of water flowing to the sea has been reduced, largely from a 2003 water conservation agreement to transfer some of the Valley’s water supplies to urban areas.
The habitat project will be equivalent in size to 7,500 football fields. It will include a network of ponds, berms, nesting and loafing islands, and water delivery systems engineered to sustain fish and bird populations while restoring the ecosystem function and protecting air quality.
A portion of the New River water flowing to the sea will be diverted into a causeway, where a pumping system will mix the water. This will help control both salinity levels and water quality. It will be enough to support a fish population, which in turn, will support migratory birds.
The project is part of the state’s
Salton Sea Management Program (SSMP), a phased approach to restoration that under phase one will provide near-term restoration through 2028. Planning continues for longterm restoration as part of later phases of the SSMP that will be developed under a joint federal and state study now moving forward. The study is led by the Army Corps of Engineers. Several SSMP projects, some designed to create habitat and others focused on dust suppression, are moving forward. All share a goal of protecting communities, maintaining the sea as a critical habitat area, and reestablishing it as a
sought-after destination point. The program aims to alter the prevailing narrative, which portrays the sea as an environmental disaster.
A day before the flooding of the East Pond Expansion, the state Water Resources Control Board held a workshop about the program in Coachella. E. Joaquin Esquivel, chairman of the board, said of the efforts at the sea, “We can all clearly see a vision for the future.”
That’s not to suggest restoration is close to reaching its ambitious goals. By 2028, the SSMP is to
California Natural Resources Agency Secretary Wade Crowfoot (right) at the Salton Sea.
- Photo by Darren Simon
Ben Yellen
By Bill Gay
This year marks the 45th anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Bryant v. Yellen, a case that ultimately defined the landscape of the Imperial Valley's agricultural industry and water allocation.
The court’s decision, on June 16, 1980, was also a pivotal moment in the career of a crusading and controversial Brawley physician whose name will forever be attached to Imperial Valley water history.
Ben Yellen single-handedly took on Valley agriculture in an effort to break up large farm holdings. He sued to enforce a little-known federal reclamation law adopted in 1902. It contained a 160-acre limit per person on irrigated farmland.
He contended that the limitation applied to Valley farmland with the passage of the 1928 Boulder Canyon Project Act, which funded the All-American Canal. His two-decade fight reached
Remembering a lone voice after 45 years
the U.S. Supreme Court, where it ultimately ended—unsuccessfully.
Yellen used his often-unfiltered voice, newsletters on yellow paper, and the ballot box to make his points as he waged a one-man war against what he claimed was the erosion of small-scale farming. His style was as unpredictable as it was unforgettable.
Born in 1907 in Brooklyn to workingclass Jewish immigrants, Yellen’s father -- a baker-- was active in the union movement. “I found out the most important nerve in the body was the pocketbook,” Yellen once wrote. He graduated from Long Island College of Medicine in 1931.
Suffering from asthma, he moved to the Imperial Valley in 1942, where the climate suited his health. He assumed Dr. George Holleran’s practice during those war years. The “Holleran and Yellen” arrangement made Ripley's "Believe It or Not" one year.
The doctor’s medical prescriptions and shots developed a reputation of
Imperial Valley Press photos reflect the atmosphere of Ben Yellen's (above) one person campaign to change acreage of Imperial Valley farms.
their own. Pharmacists dreaded seeing his prescriptions because they required custom mixing. There were many stories about how his shots carried immediate cures for various ailments.
He noted that for a $10 office visit and shot, he could cure most of what would cost twice for another doctor to treat.
Yellen’s first major clash with Valley agriculture came over the Bracero
Historic
program in the 1950s. He accused large farms of favoring cheap, imported Mexican labor over local Mexican-American workers. According to the University of California, San Diego’s Online Archive, Yellen sued growers and the Continental Life Insurance Company in 1956, alleging migrant workers were being defrauded of their medical insurance benefits. Yellen was expelled from the Imperial Valley Medical Society in 1959 on charges that informing workers about their insurance benefits was an unethical attempt to build his own practice at the expense of the physicians hired to treat the braceros.
Then in 1960, on a trip to Washington, D.C., Yellen stumbled upon the 1902 Reclamation Act, which redefined his political activism. It stated that no landholder receiving federally subsidized irrigation water should own more than 160 acres.
Yellen launched his campaign to enforce the act with characteristic gusto. He lobbied Congress. He petitioned the Department of the Interior. He sued. And sued. His hand-delivered newsletter–typed and mimeographed in his Eighth Street Brawley office–became his megaphone.
These “yellow sheets” were distributed on street corners, mailed to officials, and tucked under windshield wipers.
In 1972, NBC News profiled him as “a rural Ralph Nader.” CBS’s 60 Minutes filmed him striding down Brawley’s Main Street, knapsack swinging, distributing flyers to the soundtrack of “The Impossible Dream.”
In 1977, his battle intensified when the Ninth Circuit Court ruled that the Reclamation Act’s 160-acre limit did apply to Imperial Valley. "We beat the pants off them," he crowed, even as several hundred opponents gathered in the county courthouse to decry the decision.
Meanwhile, Valley agricultural organizations launched a massive publicity effort to seek legislative and judicial relief. Tractor parades became common during this “Fairness” campaign. At the Century Plaza Hotel in Los Angeles, where then-President Jimmy Carter held a fundraiser, a massive tractor parade also featured a combined marching band of Valley high school students.
Yellen continued his one-man campaign.
In 1977, he joined a 90-minute call-in show on Brawley’s KROP radio, a local country station at the time. Throughout the program, Yellen contended the decision would allow poor people from the cities to move to the Imperial Valley and become farmers.
Yellen also ran for numerous public offices–not to win, but to CONTINUED | PAGE 34
Membresia para Gimnasio
COLAB
Offers menu for building a better government, bright future
By Susan Giller
Earlier this summer, the Coalition for Agriculture, Labor, and Business (COLAB) hosted its annual breakfast at which elected representatives from the Imperial Irrigation District (IID) and Imperial County updated the public about how the public agencies are addressing the thorny issues facing the region. In some years, the event has provoked spirited exchanges. Sometimes, including this year, the event featured indigestion-inducing topics, such as a series of power rate increases IID is implementing through 2027 and the dire economic impact of Spreckels Sugar
closing its beet processing facility.
Despite ever-changing challenges and concerns, the congeniality of the COLAB breakfast serves as an annual reminder that politics, in particular on the local level, is not the blood sport popularized on social media and in the national press.
The breakfast tradition is a tasty way COLAB works to reinforce its core belief that good government depends upon building a strong and open relationship between the people and the government that serves them. Yet the annual breakfast is only the start of the menu. Altogether, COLAB provides a three-course approach to engage the public in helping ensure the local government is truly of, by,
District board Chair Gina
and for the people of the Imperial Valley.
“For our democratic system of government to work best, it needs citizen involvement,” said COLAB Executive Director Shelby Trimm. “And it all starts with open communication. The breakfast gives elected representatives a chance to address constituents and to listen to community concerns.”
This year’s breakfast was unique in that it featured two women elected officials: IID Board Chair Gina Dockstader and Imperial County District 3 Supervisor Peggy Price. And Assemblyman Jeff Gonzales, who represents all of Imperial County, discussed the issues of concern to the Valley that he is addressing in Sacramento.
While breaking bread is one way to build a relationship, it takes more than butter and jam to forge the bonds that keep elected officials responsive to the public they serve. That is why, 12 years ago, COLAB began to hold candidate forums for contested Imperial County and Imperial Irrigation District positions, as well as other local elective offices.
“COLAB’s goal is to encourage citizens to get involved, to understand the issues, know where candidates stand, and most importantly, to be informed voters,” Trimm said. “It takes more than billboards and banners to really get to know what a candidate stands for.”
COLAB is uniquely suited to host
Imperial Irrigation
Dockstader speaks to the audience at the COLAB breakfast. - Photo by Bill Amidon
candidate forums. The organization is neither political nor partisan, and it does not endorse candidates or take positions in local, state, or national elections. It is an advocacy organization.
“Our mission is to improve local government to create a better future for Imperial County,” Trimm said. She added, the organization envisions reforms to ensure “a more transparent, responsive, and efficient local government.”
Yet, realizing the vision of a brighter future for the Valley through improved local government does not happen in isolation. “Community involvement is key to making sure we have transparency and accountability in our local governments,” Trimm said.
COLAB helps lead the way by hosting candidate forums that provide candidates with a fair and equal opportunity to present their positions. The forums also allow the public to submit questions for the candidates. The events are broadcast live on Facebook to provide access to information for those who cannot attend the forum.
Then, about 11 years ago, COLAB added another element to its effort to encourage civic engagement. It began offering candidate training workshops in conjunction with the county Registrar of Voters for individuals planning or considering a run for office.
“Citizen participation, both as informed voters and as knowledgeable candidates, is essential to electing leaders who guide thoughtful and approachable local government,” Trimm said.
The workshops are a way to demystify the complex rules, regulations, and requirements that govern elections. It also provides information on running a campaign, the responsibilities of an elected official, and presentations of recently elected individuals.
By hosting the annual breakfast, holding election candidate forums, and providing training for prospective candidates, COLAB works to ensure civic engagement remains part of an effort to improve local government and build a better future for Imperial County.
COLAB`s 2024 daylong candidates` session. - Photo by Susan Giller
Desert Photography
Offers unique Desert Museum learning experience
By Caitlin Chavez
A dozen visitors to the Imperial Valley Desert Museum in Ocotillo recently gathered under the shade of the museum’s porch to watch Head Curator Ryan Pagett demonstrate cyanotype photography.
Under the dazzling rays of the June desert sun, images of ocotillos develop on special blue paper. After 10 minutes of sun exposure, participants develop their photos by submerging their paper into a tray of water, resulting in a unique photographic print and souvenir of their learning experience.
“Cyanotypes are a really great way of capturing the beauty of the environment and then having a very direct connection with it,” Pagett said. “It’s a hands-on process, and I am blown away by how we can use this process to appreciate and learn about the plant and animal life in the desert.”
Developing cyanotype photographs is just one part of the desert museum’s
ongoing effort to provide unique programming for museum visitors.
The museum’s variety of programs at its Ocotillo site includes free community days with hands-on activities and annual programs like the Ocotillo Blooms
event in the spring, that celebrate the burst of color from the blooming of desert flowers, the pollinators that facilitate it, and local agencies and organizations that protect the desert.
Head Desert Museum Curator Ryan Pagett demonstrates cyanotype photography. - Photos by Joselito N. Villero
Museum visitors create their images.
Trailblazing Volunteers
By Caitlin Chavez
In the past decade since unveiling its permanent exhibitions, the Imperial Valley Desert Museum has welcomed tens of thousands of visitors to Ocotillo to view its collections and celebrate the richness of natural life and human culture that define this desert region.
For volunteers Mike and Nancy Rood, promoting the mission of the desert museum extends beyond its walls. They lead hikers through the Imperial County wilderness to encounter the desert firsthand.
The El Centro couple guide the Jacumba Hikers, a hiking program for intermediate and advanced hikers in partnership with the museum.
With the natural landscape functioning
Expanding Desert Museum through fun, educational hikes
as an open-air classroom, the Roods guide hundreds of hikers each year as part of the program, sharing the geological features, flora, and fauna that define the region. Their hikes also explore the Native American and settler history of the area while traversing the mountain and desert region that surround the museum.
“Outdoor exploration is an amazing opportunity for education, and it’s important for people to know the history of the place that they either grew up in or that they currently live in,” said Angelina Lutz, the museum’s interim director. “It is really helpful to have the Roods involved, because their expertise and their knowledge of the hiking is advanced, and they are generous with sharing their
CONTINUED PAGE 38
TOP PHOTO: Jacumba Hikers on the trail to Domelands in the Coyote Mountains.
BOTTOM PHOTO: Volunteer Mike Rood stands in Pinto Canyon in the Jacumba Wilderness area. - Photos by Mike and Nancy Rood
Mall Walkers
By Darren Simon
At 7 a.m., they start to arrive at the Imperial Valley Mall—some dressed in workout gear, others in work attire.
They enter through the south side of the mall closest to the carousel, where they are greeted by a Start Here sign that begins their morning trek through the mall.
These early risers proudly go by the name “mall walkers”, and for many, this is not only their daily form of exercise, but it’s also a way of sharing their joy of walking with others and a way of supporting their mental health.
Of course, it’s also a way to exercise safely during the summer in an airconditioned environment with security, all for free. It is part of a program officially titled “The Get Fit Program” provided by the mall in partnership with the program’s sponsor, Innercare.
On this particular day in late June, seven mall walkers were there in those early hours before the mall actually opened. But many more mall walkers were expected throughout the day.
Exercise, camaraderie without the heat
Judy Bird and Pam Buckley, both of El Centro, were the first to arrive and quickly began their walk, following an established route through the mall where one lap nearly equals a mile. On this day, they planned to do five to six laps. Many walkers do anywhere from two to six miles a day.
“I love walking,” said Bird, 68, retired from her years of service at the Imperial County Superior Courthouse. She has been part of the mall walker program since it was launched, not long after the mall opened in 2005. Back then, she would come before starting her workday. “This is so good for my physical health and my mental health.”
Buckley, 74, who before her retirement was a business manager at El Centro Motors, has been walking since 2016. She jokes that she began because her husband, famed local co-owner of KXO Radio, Carroll Buckley, told her after she retired that she needed to get out of the house and do something.
“When I started, I would just walk about halfway, then I got up to a full lap, and now I’m doing five laps,” Buckley
BOTTOM
-
said. “I just enjoy walking so much, and walking here is better than walking in the park.”
The mall walker program is available daily, Monday through Saturday, starting at 7 a.m., and on Sundays starting at 9 a.m. The program runs year-round, but mall walkers say it is especially helpful
CONTINUED PAGE 31
TOP PHOTO: From left mall walkers Judy Hashem and Judy Bird.
PHOTO: Bill Rousseau.
Photos by Joselito N. Villero
Valley's Eateries
American Food
1905 Bar & Grill $$
1500 N. Imperial Ave., Imperial, CA 92251
760-919-5558
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2GO SALADS $
210 E. Cole Blvd #5, Calexico, CA 92231
760-618-9120
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Applebee's Grill & Bar $$
2421 Cottonwood Dr, El Centro, CA 92243
760-353-8311
www.applebees.com
Applebee's Grill & Bar $$
2505 Scaroni Ave, Calexico, CA 92231
760-768-1649
www.applebees.com
Back To Eden Juice $
616 Main St, Ste#4 Brawley, CA 92227
https://bit.ly/46UCFXh
Imperial Valley's homegrown restaurants offer lots of tasty choices
Brickhouse Deli 447 W. Aten Rd, Imperial, CA 92251
760-592-4352 www.bhdeli.co
Buffalo Wild Wings $$
510 Danenberg Dr, El Centro, CA 92243
760-337-9481
www.bu alowildwings.com
Burgers & Beer $$
260 N. Imperial Ave., El Centro, CA 92243
760-353-4431
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Broken Yolk Café
3049 N. Imperial Ave., El Centro, CA 92243
760-352-9655
https://bit.ly/35Vk5A9
Brownie’s Diner $$ 990 Main St, Brawley, CA 92227
760-344-2938
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Buckshot Deli & Diner $$ 8120 CA-111, Niland, CA 92257
760-359-0595
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Cafecito Bar $
157 N Plaza St, Brawley, CA 92227
760-262-3257
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Chili's Grill & Bar $$
3303 S. Dogwood Rd, El Centro, CA 92243
760-352-2116 www.chilis.com
China Palace Steakhouse $$$ 1075 Adams Ave, El Centro, CA 92243
760-353-1510
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DQ Grill & Chill
Restaurant $$ 3063 N Imperial Ave. El Centro, CA 92243
www.dairyqueen.com
Denny's $$
1445 Ocotillo Dr, El Centro, CA 92243
760-352-2576 www.dennys.com
Denny's $$
3403 Dogwood Rd. El Centro, CA 92243 760-337-9023 www.dennys.com
Famous Dave's $$
3103 S. Dogwood Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-352-9044
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Farmer Boys $$ 1532 Cruickshank Dr, El Centro, CA 92243
760-336-0227 www.farmerboys.com
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
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
Hot Rods & Beer $$ 235 West E 5th St, Holtville, CA 92250 760-356-9900 hotrodsnbeer.com
Humble Farmer Brewing Co. 116 S. Imperial Ave Ste C, Imperial, CA 92251 760-545-0037
humblefarmerbrewing.com
IHOP $$ 2362 S. 4th St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-352-1100 www.ihop.com
Jersey Mike’s Subs 1002 N Imperial Ave. EL Centro, CA 92243 442-231-8093 www.jerseymikes.com
Junior's Café $ 1791 Adams Ave, El Centro, CA 92243
760-353-9556
https://bit.ly/3cP2oG5
Leroy's Backyard BBQ $$ 675 Main St. El Centro, CA 92243 760-675-6546
Maranatha Steakhouse $$ 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 $$ 2321 S. 4th St, El Centro, CA 92243
760-332-6499 www.panerabread.com
Pepper Grind Coffee $
1560 Pepper Dr, El Centro, CA 92243
https://bit.ly/3j3jcxd
Rabb Slabs Bbq $$
496 W. State, El Centro, CA 92243
760-970-4867
bit.ly/3y1aquf
Red Feather Off-Road Market & Cafe $
1182 N. Imperial Hwy, Ocotillo, CA 92259
760-358-7389
https://bit.ly/3vwXwvY
Shake & Wake $
1490 N. Imperial Ave, El Centro, CA 92243
442-283-5100
https://bit.ly/3EalJfZ
Sizzler $$
707 N. Imperial Ave, El Centro, CA 92243
760-353-3780
http://www.sizzler.com
Sonora Fusion $$$
560 W State St, El Centro, CA 92243
760-693-5069
https://bit.ly/3wLozVP
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
The Original Town Pump Steakhouse $$
200 W Main St., Westmorland, CA 92281
760-344-3663
https://bit.ly/3wLlvch
Tropical Delights $$
219 W E St, Brawley, CA 92227 (760) 344-5051
Vibras Healthy
Nutrition $
136 N Plaza, Brawley, CA 92227
760-679-6277
https://bit.ly/41c6hfm
Ursa $$
612 W. Main St., El Centro, CA 92243
760-970-4011
http://ursadesert.com
Asian Cuisine
Chef Lee's Express $
1049 N. Imperial Ave, El Centro, CA 92243
760-693-5555
https://bit.ly/3xx5M0q
Chi+Mac $$
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 $$
3309 S. Dogwood Rd, El Centro, CA 92243
760-352-9888
https://bit.ly/3iJn6uQ
Fortune House $$ 1627 W Main St, El Centro, CA 92243
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 $$ 538 E St, Brawley, CA 92227 760-344-9750
https://qrco.de/Assaggio
Saltcedar Barbecue $
297 South Imperial Ave. Imperial, CA 92251
619-724-8162
Saltcedarbbq.com
https://bit.ly/3rakIPW
Valley Vida $$ 1560 Ocotillo Dr. Ste C El Centro, CA 92243
442-271-4103
https://valleyVida.com
760-352-3888
https://bit.ly/3vrsZzu
Fujisan Sushi $$
1560 Ocotillo Dr Suite O, El Centro, CA 92243
760-970-4436 www.fujisaniv.com
Chuck-E-Cheese $$
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
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 $$
741 Cesar Chavez Blvd, Calexico, CA 92231
760-618-9180
https://bit.ly/3b2oeod
Cachanillas Tacos & Cheves $$ 1101 Paulin Ave., Calexico CA 92231
760-890-0121
Cardenas Markets $$ 1620 N. Imperial Ave, El Centro, CA 92243
760-482-0139 www.cardenasmarkets.com
Celia’s Restaurant $$ 1530 Adams Ave, El Centro, CA 92243
760-352-4570
https://bit.ly/3q4ZFxQ
Chilibertos Tacos & Breakfast $$
717 Imperial Ave., Calexico, CA 92231
760-890-5415
http://bit.ly/429h90Y
Cilantros La Taqueria $
643 S 4th St Ste 1, El Centro, CA 92243
760-693-5337
https://bit.ly/3gBgdJu
D’Lupita's Restaurant $$
336 W 5th St, Holtville, CA 92250
760-356-7100
https://bit.ly/3gwwvo5
D'Poly Taco, Grill & Beer $$
1573 W. Main St, El Centro, CA 92243
760-970-4243
https://bit.ly/35vdKLw
El Cañon $
625 Main St, Brawley, CA 92227
760-344-2411
El Chochis Snacks & Salads $ 1065 Main St, Brawley, CA 92227
760-790-8242
https://bit.ly/3K9LdzB
El Jumping Bean
Taqueria #2 $$
1050 S Brawley Ave #103, Brawley, CA 92227
760-623-7030 bit.ly/3m5FCPd
El Guero Tacos & Beer $ 1560 Ocotillo Dr. El Centro, Ca. 92243 442-230-9971
El Menudazo $ 548 Broadway #C, El Centro, CA 760-970-4940 bit.ly/3n8dezl
El Merendero $$
1702 N Imperial Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 442-283-5014 https://bit.ly/3GdMxxW
El Zarape $$ 139 S. Imperial Ave, Imperial, CA 92251
760-355-4435
https://bit.ly/3gCuPrP
Flautas & Sopes $ 1622 S 4th St, El Centro, CA 92243
442-283-5090 www.flautasysopesusa.site
Flautas & Sopes $$ 1531 Ford Dr, El Centro, CA 92243 760-336-0825 www.flautasysopesusa.site
Flautas & Sopes $ 715 Cesar Chavez Blvd, Calexico, CA 92231
760-357-0655 www.flautasysopesusa.site
Hacienda Market & Snack Bar $ 941 K St, Brawley, CA 92227
760-344-5542
https://bit.ly/3b0ILJR
Holtville Taco Shop $ 404 E 5th St, Holtville, CA 92250 760-356-5756
www.holtvilletacoshop.com
Jalisco's Bar & Grill $$ 844 N. Imperial Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-353-2515
https://bit.ly/3nhTvsZ
Johnny's Burritos 490 D St., Brawley, CA 92227
760-344-0961
https://bit.ly/3cJkERa
La Fuente Restaurant $
737 Emerson Ave, Calexico, CA 92231
Johnny's Burritos
301 Wake Ave., El Centro, CA 92243
760-353-0963
https://bit.ly/3cLY2Qb
Johnny's Burritos
105 S. Imperial Ave., Imperial CA 92251
760-355-0962
https://bit.ly/3vzAxAh
K Taquiza Restaurant $
249 E Main St, El Centro, CA 92243
760-693-5088
https://bit.ly/3GcVSpA
Karina's Mexican Food $$
845 Adams Ave, El Centro, CA 92243
760-337-0027
https://bit.ly/3njjQXG
La Birrieria Red Tacos $ 710 Heil St, El Centro, CA 92243 (760) 970-4406
https://bit.ly/2SHS77N
La Fonda Bar & Grill $$
1950 S 4th St #1, El Centro, CA 92243
760-353-6450
https://bit.ly/3E23yJm
760-357-5760
https://bit.ly/2ZcppyX
La Resaca $$
143 S. 6th St, El Centro, CA 92243
760-592-4971
https://bit.ly/3vFQox3
Las Chabelas Restaurant $$
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 $$
705 S. 4th St, El Centro, CA 92243
760-352-8170
https://bit.ly/3wBPpPV
Los Cerritos Restaurant $ 411 E 5th St, Holtville, CA 92250
760-756-3097
https://bit.ly/35yM1t9
Ma Lupe's $$
2600 Thomas Dr. El Centro, Ca. 92243
Ma Lupe's $$
390 W. Aten Rd, Imperial, CA 92251
760-355-1180
Maria's Taco Shop $
401 Broadway, El Centro, CA 92243
760-675-6546
https://bit.ly/3iLMFLP
Mi Casita $$
324 S. Imperial Ave. Ste B, Calexico, CA 92231
760-556-9895
https://bit.ly/3cO17PE
Mexca Brew Co. $$ 612 W Main St, El Centro, CA 92243
760-970-4544
https://bit.ly/2SkabEM
Nana Dora's 103 W. K St., Brawley, CA 92227
760-344-2677
https://bit.ly/2S3kWex
Mr Tempo Bar & Cantinas $$
201 N. Imperial Ave, El Centro, CA 92243
760-693-5393
https://bit.ly/35xq51E
Nana’s Kitchen $$
502 W. Aten Rd., Imperial, CA 92251
760-457-6077
https://bit.ly/3zCHvri
Nicky’s Mexican Restaurant 644 Main St, Brawley, CA 92227
442-646-9492
bit.ly/44zYV71
Patty’s Loncheria $$ 1191 Main St, Brawley, CA 92227
760-960-9023
https://bit.ly/3B3hjHd
Puerto Nuevo Patio & Grill $$
395 Broadway, El Centro, CA 92243
760-336-0430
https://bit.ly/3iMIrUj
Rosa's Plane Food Inc. $$
445 S. Imperial Ave, Calexico, CA 92231
760-890-8860
https://bit.ly/3q5sg5Q
Rosa's Plane Food Inc. $$ 1523 Main St., El Centro, CA 92243
442-231-8040
https://bit.ly/3q5sg5Q
Sobe's Restaurant $
1151 S. 4th St. EL Centro, CA 92243
760-352-6838 sobesrestaurant.com
Sofia’s Kitchen $$
395 A St Ste B Brawley, CA 92227
760-623-1777
bit.ly/3HkRx5Z
Sofia’s Seafood & Grill $$
132 S Plaza St. Brawley, CA 92227
760-623-1080 bit.ly/3NbNgFO
Sombrero Mexican Food $$
703 E. Danenberg Dr, El Centro, CA 92243
760-337-2160
https://bit.ly/3xyamev
Tacos De Pescado Marlyn $$ 1614 S 4th St, El Centro, CA 92243
760-353-1686
https://bit.ly/2SAvbaI
The Burrito Factory $$
130 S. Imperial Ave. #3458, El Centro, CA 92243
760-693-5110
https://bit.ly/3zxSGSd
Virginia's Casita $ 645 Main St, Brawley, CA 92227
760-351-2386
https://bit.ly/3b41jck
Calendar of Events
July 25
Museum Day at the Library
2 - 4 p.m.
Imperial Valley Desert Museum program
Imperial Public Library, 200 W. 9th St., Imperial
https://bit.ly/4kDFUYE
July 26
Under the Sea
6:30 - 8 p.m.
Swarthout Park
350 W. Euclid Ave., El Centro
The Rockstar Rec on Wheels tour brings interactive games, music, and crafts to El Centro parks for families to enjoy free themed activities.
https://bit.ly/4lTV8tB
July 28 - August 1
Southwest High School
Summer Orchestra Camp
10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
2001 Ocotillo Dr., El Centro Southwest High School
Open to students 4th through 8th grade
July 28
Museum Mondays Summer Youth Program
10 a.m. to noon
Pioneer's Museum
373 E. Aten Road, Imperial
https://bit.ly/40mO9RI
July 30
Biz Battle Game Nights
7 - 8:30 p.m.
1250 W. Main St., El Centro
Imperial Valley Small Business Development Center
A cool way to learn about entrepreneurship
https://bit.ly/4lyrcUd
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.
July 31
Couples Cooking Class
Cambria Hotel
1500 N. Imperial Ave., Imperial
https://bit.ly/3GPhI7P
August 1
Museum Day at the Library
10 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Imperial Valley Desert Museum program
Brawley Public Library, 400 Main St., Brawley
https://bit.ly/3GBhL7f
August 2
Bathhouse Bazaar
10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
The Old Bathhouse, Jacumba Hot Springs Hotel
44450 Old Highway 80, Jacumba Hot Springs
jacumba.com/pages/calendar
August 3
Monthly Brunch Buffet
10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Cambria Hotel
1500 N. Imperial Ave., Imperial
August 8
Museum Day at the Library
1 - 3 p.m.
Imperial Valley Desert Museum program
El Centro Public Library, 1198 N. Imperial Ave., El Centro https://bit.ly/4lZVu23
August 9
Paws & Peeps
6:30 - 8 p.m.
Carlos Aguilar Park, W Pico Ave., El Centro
The Rockstar Rec on Wheels tour brings interactive games, music, and crafts to El Centro parks for families to enjoy free themed activities. https://www.cityofelcentro.org/ CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=35
August 16
Comedian George Lopez
8 p.m.
Spotlight 29 Casino
46-200 Harrison Place, Coachella https://spotlight29.com/ entertainment/george-lopez/
August 22
Museum Day at the Library 1 - 3 p.m.
Imperial Valley Desert Museum program
El Centro Public Library 1198 N. Imperial Ave., El Centro https://www.ivdesertmuseum.org/ events/news
September 6
Bathhouse Bazaar 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
The Old Bathhouse, Jacumba Hot Springs Hotel 44450 Old Highway 80, Jacumba Hot Springs CA https://jacumba.com/pages/calendar
September 6
Julian Grape Stomp Festa 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Menghini Winery, 1150 Julian Orchards Drive, Julian Celebrate the 28th anniversary of the Julian Grape Stomp. $25 Adult admission includes wine glass and one tasting. https://bit.ly/40Qzmii
September 6
IV 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb
6 p.m.
IV Expo
200 E. 2nd St., Imperial IV 9/11 Committee
https://shorturl.at/41KPT
September 6
9/11 Memorial Ruck March
6 a.m.
VFW
247 S. Imperial Ave., Imperial March from Imperial VFW to El Centro VFW https://www.facebook.com/events
September 6
USS Midway's 80th Birthday & 4th Annual Multi-Cultural Celebration
Time to be determined
USS Midway Museum
910 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
A free community gathering with music, dance, birthday cake, history, and more.
https://shorturl.at/mL0CB
September 7
Monthly Brunch Buffet
10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Cambria Hotel
1500 N. Imperial Ave., Imperial https://shorturl.at/yhx3i
September 13
Heroes in the Park
8 - 9:30 a.m.
First Responders Park
1910 Waterman Ave., El Centro
The Rockstar Rec on Wheels tour brings interactive games, music, and crafts to El Centro parks for families to enjoy for free.
https://bit.ly/4nWFrnw
September 13 & 14
Grand Tasting 2025: Del Mar Food & Wine Festival
Surf Sports Park
14989 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, CA 92014 delmar.wine/event/
October 2
Autumn & the Arts
Time place to be determined Imperial County O ce of Education Foundation for Education Fundraiser to help promote the arts and fund a scholarship program. foundation.icoe.org/fundraiser
October 3 & 4
Tacos & Tunes
6 - 11 p.m.
Downtown Yuma City of Yuma
https://shorturl.at/QKUNK
October 4
Bathhouse Bazaar
10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
The Old Bathhouse, Jacumba Hot Springs Hotel
44450 Old Highway 80, Jacumba Hot Springs
jacumba.com/pages/calendar
October 4
Micheal Jackson Live (Tribute)
Spotlight 29 Casino
8 p.m.
46-200 Harrison Place, Coachella
https://tinyurl.com/yjyy67kh
October 5
Monthly Brunch Buffet
10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Cambria Hotel
1500 N. Imperial Ave., Imperial https://shorturl.at/XMfCV
October 11
The Great Outdoors
8 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
Plank Park
2840 Wensley Ave., El Centro City of El Centro
The Rockstar Rec on Wheels tour brings interactive games, music, and crafts to El Centro parks for families to enjoy free.
https://tinyurl.com/ycxny24f
October 11
Imperial Valley Pride
4 - 9 p.m.
Bucklin Park
1350 S. 8th St., El Centro
Donnelly Center
The 10th Annual Imperial Valley Pride event will showcase the talents of local businesses and agencies, with Celebrity judges picking the best performances. donnellycenter.org/pride
October 11
IV Food Bank Harvest Bowl
6 - 9 p.m.
IV Food Bank
486 W. Aten Rd., Imperial
A day of food, fun and fundraising! Every dollar raised goes directly to helping local families access the food and support they need. https://tinyurl.com/5ep65rrp
October 18
Fiesta De Los Muertos
5 - 9 p.m.
City of Imperial Parks & Recreation
Downtown Imperial, Ca. tinyurl.com/mttcvmc7
October 18-19
59th Annual Borrego Days
Desert Festival
Christmas Circle Community Park, 700 Christmas Circle Dr, Borrego Springs
Borregp Festivals Foundation
There will be a parade an exciting lineup of free entertainment, a popular beer garden, a kids zone, food stations & trucks, and a variety of booths www.borregodays.com
ABOUT THE STAIR CLIMB
The Imperial Valley 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb is a way for local fi refi ghters and the community to honor and remember the FDNY fi refi ghters who selfl essly gave their lives on September 11, 2001. Each Imperial Valley 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb participant pays tribute to an FDNY fi refi ghter by climbing or walking the equivalent of the 110 stories of the World Trade Center. Each tribute remembers the sacrifi ce of an FDNY fi refi ghter and symbolically completes their heroic journey to save others. Participants in the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb help ensure that each of the 343 fi refi ghters is honored, and the world knows we will never forget. Funds raised at the event benefi t the Imperial Valley 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb Committee, a 501(c)(3) organization that aids local fi refi ghters and families in need, as well as promotes scholarship opportunities for the community.
EVENT SCHEDULE
6 pm On-site registration and check-in opens. Preregistered participants check in to receive shirts and event materials. Exhibits, food & beverages available. 7:45 pm Opening Ceremonies National Anthem & Keynote Speakers. 8 pm Stair Climb/Walk Begins Register Online: iv911.org (As Individual or Team)
Imperial Valley Museums
Imperial Valley Desert
Museum
11 Frontage Rd, Ocotillo, CA
Ph: 760-358-7016
Open: Wednesday – Sunday 10 AM – 4
PM
Cost: General Admission. . . $5
Website: ivdesertmuseum.org
Pioneers Museum
373 Aten Rd., Imperial, CA
Ph: 760-352-1165
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
Center of the World in Felicity "Museum of History in Granite¨
History of Humanity / The Church / Maze of Honor
Center of the World Plaza, Felicity, CA
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
Dove Season
IV tradition returns with bang on Sept. 1
The sounds of shotguns as dawn breaks on the opening day of dove-hunting season are familiar ones to Imperial Valley residents.
Local fields have long drawn dove hunters from inside and outside Imperial County and are highly ranked in publications, such as Western Outdoor News (wonews.com).
The first phase of the 2025 season opens on Monday, Sept. 1. It runs through Sept. 15 and resumes from Nov. 8 to Dec. 22.
Dove hunting in the Imperial Valley has been a tradition for ages. It is also important for wildlife research. Wildlife biologists use bands to mark some birds for research, and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife asks hunters to report banded birds to www.reportband.gov
Visit wildlife.ca.gov/hunting/upland-game-birds for more information or use the QR code to view regulations.
Remembering Mr.
Ag, Ed McGrew
By Darren Simon
As a young reporter for the Imperial Valley Press starting mid-’90s, if I was assigned an agriculture story, my first interview was almost always with Ed McGrew. His insight into the Valley’s ag issues provided a foundation for understanding the challenges facing growers.
My very last interview with him was in 2023 for a story when Vessey & Co. reached its centennial. I interviewed Ed because he was a long-time Vessey family friend. But then, he was a long-time friend of so many.
Ed McGrew’s story begins in the Imperial Valley, where he was born and raised. His life is told well through his obituary drafted by his family.
He attended Meloland School, Acacia School, and Central Union High School.
an IVVGA founder, lived for Valley success
term as president of the El Centro Chamber of Commerce, was a member of the California Mid-Winter Fair Heritage Foundation, served on the Imperial Valley Food Bank board, and was a founding member of what was then Valley Independent Bank.
Even then, he was a leader. He served as student body president. He continued his education at Imperial Valley College and then Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, where he met the woman who would be his wife for 65 years—Patricia Soule, or as she is known to most, Patty McGrew.
The year 1960 was critical to Ed for a number of reasons. He graduated from
When he passed in April at the age of 87, he was celebrated as an innovative leader, engaged community advocate, and a grower who worked not only for the success of his own operation but for the success of all Valley agriculture. He was also honored for his friendship and for being a mentor.
“Ed lived for Imperial Valley agriculture,” said Jack Vessey, president of Vessey & Co. “His leadership, his support, and his friendship meant a great deal not only to my family, but to growers throughout the Valley.”
Ed’s leadership included being a founding member of the Imperial Valley Vegetable Growers Association (IVVGA), which formed in 1968 to advocate for and represent the Valley’s vegetable industry. Today, Imperial Valley produce grows on 140,000 acres with yields valued at more than $1.2 billion, according to the most recent data available.
Thomas Cox, IVVGA president, said Ed leaves behind a legacy of mentorship, one that included mentoring Cox in his early days on the IVVGA Board.
He was also involved in building the Rio Bend RV Resort, Lake View Golf Course, and Storms Crossing Mobile Estates off Interstate 8 west of El Centro.
“He started everything from pretty much nothing, but through his drive and work ethic, he did very well,”
San Luis Obispo with a degree in farm management. Also, that year, he and Patty married. Soon after, he went into military service at Fort Sill, Oklahoma.
When his military service ended, he and Patty returned to the Imperial Valley, where he launched his career in agriculture.
He would go on to found Magco, a farming operation in both the Imperial Valley and Yuma. His ventures expanded further through partnerships in Tammarack Feed Lot and Sandhill Cattle Co.
In his work as a
manufactured C-Taps to assist farmers with more efficient irrigation. They are still being manufactured and sold today.
“When I first got on the Board, Ed was still on our Advisory Board. He would pull me aside after every meeting to check in on me and to mentor me through the ups and downs. He was so genuine. His heart was so into mentoring others, and today, because of him, I really try to mentor others.”
grower, Ed designed and served on
Beyond his professional endeavors, Ed was an advocate and volunteer. To identify just some of his community engagement, along with founding IVVGA, he advocated for the dairy industry in the Valley, helped form the Imperial Valley Economic Development Corp. (IVEDC), served on the Holtville Unified School District Board, the board and a
said Scott Howington of Oasis Farms Inc., who added that Ed always looked beyond his own success to help others. “He was always looking for a way to make the Imperial Valley better, not just for agriculture, but in any way.”
At his core, Ed was a grower who stood up for other growers, according to fellow growers, who pointed out he was especially encouraging to young farmers.
There was a time when Larry Cox of Cox Farms was one of those young farmers. He was just back from college and attended an event marking the 40th anniversary of the Imperial Valley Vegetable Growers.
“He came up with five or six existential crises that could have ended agriculture in the Valley but pointed out that the industry always found a way to adapt and persevere,” Larry Cox said. “You know, my father always taught me in farming, you have to be realistic, resourceful, and resilient, and Ed embodied all of those qualities.”
Shelby Trimm, IVVGA’s executive director, said Ed’s love for agriculture and the Imperial Valley led him to want to see others succeed because every individual’s success helped lift the Valley.
“Ed had a wealth of knowledge and was so willing to share that knowledge,” Trimm said. “I could call him with any question about the Vegetable Growers Association, and he would know the answer off the top of his head, and he was so willing to help.”
To Ed’s fellow growers, he leaves behind a legacy for others to emulate.
“Ed’s legacy to me was his promotion and enthusiasm for everything Imperial Valley agriculture offers,” Vessey said. and growers, promotion said.
Ben Abatti III
By Blake Nelson
To Ben Abatti III, farming isn’t a job. It’s a way of life and it’s one he enjoys, appreciates and values.
At only 30 years old, he may be a young farmer, but he’s already leaving his mark not only in his innovative work as a farmer, but also as a member of the Imperial County Farm Bureau Board of Directors and the Farm Bureau’s Young Farmers and Ranchers group.
His emergence as an agricultural leader in the Imperial Valley is no surprise given his family roots.
“My family has farmed in California since my great-grandfather immigrated from Italy,” Abatti said. “Farming is in my
Leading agriculture through instinct and innovation
sugar beets, produce and other field crops. His family’s initial success instilled the confidence and excitement in Ben Abatti III to begin envisioning the next level of success, and how to best utilize his talents to make it a reality. Higher education was the next step.
“I had a unique opportunity to build on my family’s legacy and put my personal strengths to work,” said Abatti. “Industry education and innovation became a priority.”
Abatti bid adieu to his home in Holtville for California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo to pursue a degree in Bioresource and Agricultural Engineering with a minor in Agricultural Business. Post graduation, he spent a few years working in the Central Valley, gaining farm operations experience with the J.G. Boswell Company before he returned to the Imperial Valley.
He now works with his father, as farm manager for Baja Farms, which is based in Holtville. He oversees day-to-day operations and is driving innovation in planting, irrigation, and crop selection. He brings with him a technical mindset, focusing on exploring new approaches to improve yields, increase efficiency and keep their business competitive.
“I like experimenting—trying a few acres of something new,” he said. “Sometimes it works; sometimes we learn what not to do. But either way, it’s forward motion.”
blood.”
Abatti’s great-grandfather got his start working on a small dairy farm on the Central Coast before making his way to Imperial Valley. He bought his first 40 acres in the Imperial Valley where he grew hay and had a small dairy. With the help of his two mules, he also helped in the construction of the All-American Canal.
The 82-mile aqueduct is the Imperial Valley’s lifeline to the Colorado River. The water it carries supports about 500,000 acres of agricultural land in the Imperial Valley.
Those humble beginnings paved the way for Abatti’s grandfather to build a robust farming operation that , at one point, managed 16,000 acres of alfalfa,
That can-do attitude spurred his commitment to continuing his education. In 2024, he was selected as one of nine in California to participate in the state Farm Bureau’s yearlong leadership program. According to the organization’s website, the Leadership Farm Bureau program is specifically designed to invest in emerging agricultural leaders.
Participants gain perspective and training in the areas of personal development, human behavior, public speaking, working with the media, political advocacy, government structure, key political issues and the Farm Bureau organization and structure, according to the California Farm Bureau website.
Additionally, it states that participants travel to Washington, D.C., and Sacramento, and “review development and implementation of state and national policies in meetings with key legislative, administrative and regulatory officials.”
The big takeaways for Abatti: a broadened perspective on policy, geographical opinions and the complexity
of the forces today shaping agriculture in California, and the rest of the country. It also inspired him to join the Imperial Valley Farm Bureau’s board of directors.
“I now know firsthand that policy makers are more open to creating solutions for industry than it may seem in the media,” Abatti said. “Most are thoughtful, genuine and understand the importance of prioritizing ag. It’s up to us to continue the conversation, and I’m thankful for a new insight on how to approach decision-makers.”
Civic engagement and community involvement are critical to the next generation of Imperial Valley farmers, and those who know Abatti say he has proven he’s ready to help lead the way.
"Ben is a great example of the next generation stepping up in agriculture. He’s involved, informed and always willing to step up, whether advocating at the State Capitol or pitching in here at home,” said Shelby Trimm, executive director of the Imperial Valley Vegetable Growers Association. “He’s already contributed in meaningful ways, and I’m confident he’ll continue to be a strong voice for local growers."
Never one to shy away from a challenge, Abatti is currently focused on breathing new life into the Imperial Valley Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers group. The group is for individuals between the ages of 18 and 35 who are involved in production, banking, business, and many other aspects of agriculture. Members develop leadership skills while volunteering time as active, vital members of the Imperial County Farm Bureau.
The group was largely inactive in 2020 when Abatti returned to the Valley, but he understood the value in rebuilding an organization that could support the next generation of agricultural leaders. As past chair of the chapter, Abatti continues to organize
fundraisers for Imperial Valley youth and Future Farmers of America programs, as well as networking opportunities for young farmers.
“There are environmental and policy challenges we need to solve, but problems are opportunities in disguise,” said Abatti. “There is a place, and need, for the next generation of farmers to help create solutions. The only criteria is to embrace the lifestyle. And never stop learning.”
BACK ROW, LEFT Ben Abatti III with classmates in the Farm Bureau Leadership Class of 2024. - Photo by Calfornia Farm Bureau
Farm Smart
2024-2025 School Year Recap
Total number of participants reached - 9,729 participants (onsite and o site programs combined)
Number of participants reached through community events - 5,103 (U-picks, community events, and other outings throughout the community)
Total number of students Pre-K - College - 4,626 As we reflect on this past school year we are overjoyed with the continued growth, success, and learning our program has gone through, especially reaching the 200,000 participant milestone since the start of our program in 2001. We welcomed a new member to our team, grew our student internship program, developed new exciting programs, and built new relationships with members of our community. We enjoy seeing our programs continue to grow with the help of everyone in the Imperial Valley. We are also grateful for our partnership with local organizations who contribute to our success such as the Imperial Irrigation District, Imperial County Farm Bureau, Imperial Valley Vegetable Growers, AgWest Farm Credit, and so many more.
Upcoming Dates:
August 18th
. Open booking for October-December - Schools & Educational Groups & programs
September 24th
.8th Annual Imperial County Read with a Farmer. An event where local farmers read an Ag literate book to 3rd grade students.
October 1st
.First Day of "Alfalfa is Ice Cream in the Making" a program focused on the cattle/dairy industry in the Imperial Valley and California as a whole.
November - December Fall Festival 2025 – Learn about Corn, Corn Maze, Fall Snacks Contact Info: website: https://tinyurl.com/ymb7uset
UC ANR Desert Research & Extension Center 1004 Holton Rd., Holtville, CA 92250 O ce (760)356-3067 | Fax (760)356-3073
during the summer.
Officials with Innercare said they are pleased to sponsor a program that, over the years, has helped so many people develop an exercise routine in a safe environment.
“Innercare is proud to support the Imperial Valley Mall Walkers program,” said Yvonne Bell, Innercare president and chief executive officer. “Providing the community with a safe and climatecontrolled year-round place to get needed exercise and stay active is so important for your wellbeing. Innercare cares for our community, and we want healthy living to be accessible to everyone in our community.”
Imperial Valley Mall officials said opening the mall early for the program is part of their mission of serving the community.
“It’s great to be able to provide this program for the community and to be a part of the community through this program,” said Alicia Swaim, the mall’s general manager. “We are grateful to Innercare for sponsoring the program. We wouldn’t be able to do this without partnering with Innercare.”
Those who participate in the program said they are thankful that Innercare and
the mall work together to provide this safe space to exercise.
Rosa Ramirez, 65, of Imperial, stops at the mall most days in the morning before work. She said she enjoys walking alone sometimes because it gives her time to think about the duties she needs to get done in the day ahead.
“I’m able to review in my mind what I need to get done,” Ramirez said, adding, “Besides, I prefer to walk inside, and this allows me to do some window shopping while I walk.”
Bill Rousseau, 75, of El Centro, planned to do seven laps. The retired middle school teacher, who still teaches theater at San Diego State University's Imperial Valley campus in Calexico, said he goes almost daily to get in his seven laps.
This is his third year walking at the mall. He started when the idea was introduced to him by other mall walkers. Before that, he would walk along the canal banks and streets around his neighborhood. More than once, he fell on a canal bank or over a crack in the sidewalk and broke a bone.
That concern, coupled with nearly passing out once while walking in the heat of July, led him to take his walks
indoors.
“Being here and walking helps relax my mind,” he said. “And walking is so good for you. It keeps your body warm, it’s good for your blood pressure and your heart, and it’s good for your mental health.”
Judy Hashem, 76, of El Centro, former finance director for the city of Calexico, was also among the mall walkers on this day, completing her laps with Bird. Hashem, Bird—and earlier Buckley— talked about how they had become friends by getting to know each other through the program.
That same sentiment of building friendships was shared by Rousseau, Ramirez, and El Centro resident Lupita Guzman, 72. All said the camaraderie they have built has made a difference in their lives.
They invite others to join them. In fact, they would love to see more mall walkers. They say the number of walkers has declined a bit since COVID. To participate, just show up at the southern entrance by the carousel starting at 7 a.m. Monday through Saturday – or at 9 a.m. on Sundays.
“Everyone is welcome,” Bird said.
owl under the Endangered Species Act, IID has worked to protect the little owl. The district trains workers to avoid burrows, and the environmental staff inspects and marks burrows with a pink stake or pin flag prior to construction or maintenance projects to make sure they are easily visible and avoided, Humes said. The flags are available for farmers and contractors who want to make owl burrows more visible on their work sites.
other desert species. This program
IID also conducts an outreach program in local elementary schools that includes a coloring contest featuring the burrowing owl and other desert species. This program includes an art contest based on burrowing owls and other desert species. The winners are published online and in Imperial Valley Alive.
IID even takes its owl outreach to social media. “If you are out and do see an owl, the best thing to do is to admire them from afar … we want to have the smallest disturbance possible,” IID Environmental Specialist Brooke Goodsell states in a video posted to Facebook.
capturing images of owls while sitting Burrowing owls start to nest in burrows in March. Once hatched, chicks start
banks. Adult owls can often be seen perched on posts, hay bales or on
Miller, who spends many early morning and evening hours watching and capturing images of owls while sitting in her car across the road from an owl burrow. She worries that overzealous bird watchers and photographers can scare the owls into abandoning their burrows. Burrowing owls start to nest in burrows in March. Once hatched, chicks start becoming visible as they emerge, spread their wings, and cavort on ditch banks. Adult owls can often be seen perched on posts, hay bales or on utility lines guarding their burrows.
“It is really important to respect the
“It is really important to respect the owls’ space,” said photographer Wendy
They also spend much of their time hunting. They remain dependent on their parents until late August.
on their parents until late August.
“You don’t have to crowd them,” Miller said. “They live life right there in front of you.”
right there in front of you.”
The time she spends watching and getting to know burrowing owl families lends an intimate quality to many of her photos. She seems unfazed by the rising temperatures as she watches owl chicks grow up.
The time she spends watching unfazed by the rising temperatures as she watches owl chicks grow up.
Miller said, “Now when I look through the camera lens, I just feel grateful,
“I fell in love with the burrowing owl through the lens of my camera,” Miller said, “Now when I look through the camera lens, I just feel grateful, there is so much here to see.”
- Photos by Wendy Miller
K I D W I s E
Imperial Irrigation District: Burrowing Owl Conservation Program Entries from Imperial Valley Schools
Student: Samantha Lara Teacher: Mrs. Robles
Student: Ar i ana Morales Teacher: Mrs. Terrazas
Student: Sebast i an Flores Teacher: Mrs. Trav i s
Student: Alma Gomez Teacher: Mrs. Zamora
generate support data. This included races for county assessor, sheriff, Brawley City Council, and the California Assembly. He counted votes he received as proof of silent support for his cause. He won one campaign–in 1964–for a seat on the Brawley City Council. He contended that owners of the local daily newspaper were unfair and labeled it
as Pinkley’s and later Schurz’s “Prostituted Press.” He alleged in one letter to the Department of Interior, “There’s a curtain of silence.” When a Valley TV station excluded him from a televised debate in 1978, he picketed the station–and got more airtime than the candidates inside.
“You can’t win all the fights in the courts,” he once said. “There’s
Valley citizens take the issue to thenPresident Jimmy Carter during a 1977 appearance at the Los Angeles Century Plaza Hotel. - Imperial Valley Pioneers Museum photos. Colorization of photos by Imperial Valley Alive.
a publicity battle as well.”
Despite his public attacks on the daily newspaper, he regularly visited The Brawley News, the companion publication of the Imperial Valley Press. He frequently sat down and had pleasant conversations with the editor. In one, he expressed concern about the health of the Brawley News publisher’s wife after a story reported she had been hospitalized.
Yellen’s 20-year fight came to an end in 1980 when the unanimous Supreme Court decision was announced. The final decision in Bryant v. Yellen held that the Boulder Canyon Project Act specifically protected the "present perfected rights" of land already irrigated in 1929, exempting them from the federal acreage limit.
The immediate impact was the legal confirmation of the existing water distribution policies, which favored established landowners regardless of the size of their holdings.
This outcome was further solidified with the enactment of the Reclamation Reform Act of 1982, which significantly increased the acreage limits for all federally subsidized water projects. The act applied to a small amount of acreage in the Valley that was not covered by the Supreme Court ruling because it was placed in irrigation after the Boulder Canyon Act became law.
Despite the outcome, Yellen remained one of Brawley’s unique personalities. In later years, his non-traditional style of medical practice caught up with him and ended with a malpractice suit following the death of a two-year-old boy he had injected with a compounded prescription. Although he was ultimately cleared of wrongdoing in the boy's death, the state revoked his medical license in 1983. Yellen later regained his license, but the Board of Medical Quality Assurance placed so many restrictions on his return to medicine that he never resumed an active practice, according to the UCSD Online Archive.
Yellen died in Brawley on July 1, 1994, one day before his 87th birthday.
“Every doctor is different." Yellen related in a 1977 interview. "Some like to play golf on Wednesdays. I can't see it. You take a poor piece of rubber, and you hit it. The mere fact I became a doctor means that I've got to take care of people." To do this, he lived simply, worked constantly, shrugged off criticism, and gave most of his waking life to a cause he believed in deeply.
The museum uses art as an important component of teaching about the natural and indigenous history, shared David Arevalo, the museum’s education coordinator. Signature crafts include coil-clay pottery art that reflects Kumeyaay traditions, and an “archaeological dig” activity to share an understanding of the fossils and rocks found in the region’s desert.
“With our education programs, we are ultimately honoring the desert,” Arevalo said. “Indigenous art and history are important components of our curriculum, but also highlighting the breadth of natural wildlife and history and present of our area deserts.”
Additionally, the museum hosts school field trips, leading area students not only through the permanent exhibits, but also supporting tours with hands-on activities connected to science, history, and art. Beyond Ocotillo, the museum often participates in community events and staff travel throughout Imperial County to share the museum’s educational programming. This past summer, they kicked off their Museum Day at the Library, bringing art activities to El Centro, Calexico, and Imperial.
Desert Museum visitors enjoy an exhibit. - Photos by Joselito N. Villero
“Our hands-on museum activities reflect the enduring love of nature and human capacity for creating, like in painting and photography,” Pagett said.
The cyanotype activity is a great example of the hands-on activities museum visitors can experience. Cyanotype photography is a photographic process dating back to the 1840s. It relies on a chemical reaction to create a deep blue print when light sensitive paper is exposed to ultraviolet light.
The museum’s Facebook page states of the activity, “Cyanotype is a sun-printing process that uses UV light to create stunning blue-toned images, and everyone got to make their own unique piece of art.”
Pagett added, “Cyanotype photography is one way we can capture the sublime beauty of the desert.”
Whether at the museum or out in the community, the Imperial Valley Desert Museum is committed to sharing the allure of the deserts in our backyard.
To learn more about upcoming educational programming at the Imperial Valley Desert Museum, check out their website at www.ivdesertmuseum.com.
Cyanotype photograpy at the Desert Museum.
time to support these programs.”
While museum staff lead beginner-level hikes through the museum’s Lowlanders program,
the Roods’ Jacumba Hikers take more challenging treks.
“Our hikes are a little adventurous at times because the museum sits
between several wilderness areas, including the Jacumba Wilderness and Coyote Wilderness,” Mike Rood said. “These are really interesting areas, not only from a geography and geology point of view, but also because of the peoples that used to live here.”
For decades, the Roods have embraced the beauty of Imperial County—enjoying outdoor activities like flying throughout the county on ultralight aircrafts and hiking. When Nancy was a teacher, she even led educational hiking field trips for her students.
Since 2019, the Roods have developed more than 50 different hiking trails, varying in length and difficulty. First participating in the group in 2015 under the museum’s former director, Neal Hitch, the Roods picked up the mantle after learning from several East San Diego County guides.
The couple still lead hikers along the various trails they were introduced to by San Diego area guides. However, the adventurous side of the couple has led to the development of additional new hiking trails.
“What we find really cool about leading hikes is coming up with new trails and
The Jacumba Hikers pose for a photo on a hike to Smuggler's Cave. - Photos by Mike and Nancy Rood
studying Google and finding new places to go explore,” said Nancy Rood. “We're usually not discovering anything brand new, because people have gone before us, but we are rediscovering things.”
Mike added, “With the ease of GPS navigation, you are able to get to hidden places. It’s impossible to get lost.”
Some of the hidden views revealed on the hikes include traces of the region’s prehistory, with lots of shell fossils and 6-million-year-old ribs of a sea cow, which reveal the desert’s previous life connected to larger bodies of water. Other treasures include petroglyphs, or rock drawings, and pictograms, or rock paintings, on tucked away boulders only accessible by climbing thousands of feet.
Names of the trails are often inspired by specific sites or features, natural or manmade, such as Carpet Cave.
“Carpet Cave is a tricky climb, with boulders to get around and parts where you have to get on your hands and knees and crawl on your stomach until you reach this big cave,” Nancy said. “Once you arrive, there’s carpet—actual carpet. We cannot, for the life of us, figure out who put it down and why. People love to go there because of the mystery.”
Often sparked by observing views in the distance, the Roods’ curiosity along with their GPS and pre-hike preparation, are catalysts for developing engaging and safe trails for the groups they lead.
“As we went out for different hikes around Ocotillo, I saw a sand dune up on the mountains,” Mike said. “It's
high up; it's just a white spot on the mountain—I always thought it'd be neat to hike up there. We created the hike a few years ago and did it again last year.”
The hikes are strenuous, stretching up to 14 miles and lasting up to 10 hours. However, the benefits of participating are not only learning about the sites, but also growing from the social and physical enjoyment of spending time in the wilderness.
“We like to think that our hikes provide socialization, and we always have a good group of experienced hikers that we hike with,” Mike said.
Nancy said the hikes are an incredible experience and great exercise. “On some of the more strenuous hikes, you may hardly be able to get up the next day because you are so sore. It's a good kind of sore, like we have accomplished good exercise— so we know it's good for us.”
The desert museum’s location anchors the educational components of the Roods’ hikes and is an important central meeting location for beginning the trails for participants who come from both Imperial or San Diego counties, or from other further away regions.
“It's easier to start from the museum, and I like to think that we're introducing people from outside the Valley to the museum,” Mike said. “Our hikers are always impressed by what a nice museum it is and the professional exhibits.”
The hikes led by the Roods not only offer scenic views, they also serve as a gateway to the sublime
beauty and multifaceted history of the desert landscape. Delivering a thrilling combination of adventure and insight, the Roods inspire others to explore and learn about the wilderness which surrounds Imperial County.
To learn more about the hiking programs and how to participate, see the desert museum’s website at https://www.ivdesertmuseum. org/ or call at 760-358-7016.
Behavioral Health Providing a New Path
In March 2024, California voters approved Proposition 1 to transform the state’s Mental Health Services Act, in place since 2004, into the
Additionally, the BHSA will expand housing interventions, increase the behavioral health workforce
statewide and enhance oversight,
transparency, and accountability at the state and local levels.
To implement the BHSA locally, Imperial County Behavioral Health Services (ICBHS) this month is launching a summerlong series of focus groups, townhall meetings and surveys to seek public feedback Behavioral Health Services Act (BHSA) with the goal of modernizing the behavioral health system and addressing homelessness.
The BHSA reforms behavioral health care funding to prioritize services for people with the most signifi cant mental health needs, enhance preventative care and expand treatment of substance use disorders (SUD).
townhall
that will shape the future of behavioral health care in the Imperial Valley under the BHSA.
“We want the community to have a voice in how we
Health Services Act in Mental Health Care
design and implement the services we have under the Behavioral Health Services Act,” said Sarah Moore, an ICBHS behavioral health manager.
Under a timeline for implementation, ICBHS will seek public input through August 2025, then based on an analysis of that feedback, develop a draft three-year integrated plan for implementing the BHSA by March 31, 2026, that will then be released for a 30-day public comment period.
By June 30, 2026, the plan will be presented to the county Board of Supervisors for approval with the intent to begin implementation of the integrated plan on July 1, 2026.
While services provided by ICBHS, such as case management, therapy, medication support and SUD counseling, will continue under the BHSA, the intent is to enhance services for the community.
There are number of overarching goals to enhance services to the community under the BHSA. Some of those key goals include:
Reaching and serving high need priority populations;
Focusing funding allocations on the areas of most signifi cant
need amongst Californians, including individuals at risk of or experiencing justice and system involvement, homelessness, and institutionalization;
Prioritizing early intervention, especially for children and families, youth, and young adults;
Increasing access to SUD services;
Providing ongoing funding for counties to address housing needs to people with signifi cant mental health conditions, SUD needs, and co-occurring behavioral health needs;
Increasing investments in the behavioral health workforce.
By expanding access to care and broadening its eligibility to include individuals with SUDs, BHSA provides a more inclusive approach to behavioral health care that aims to reduce the number of untreated behavioral health conditions, suicides, and overdose deaths.
BHSA recognizes stable housing as a critical component of recovery and dedicates a signifi cant portion of funds to housing interventions with the goal of reducing homelessness among people with serious mental illness and/or SUDs.
The integrated, recovery-oriented, and intensive treatment aims to prevent institutionalization, justiceinvolvement, and removal of children from their homes by addressing the unique behavioral health challenges of individuals in the least restrictive environment and through linkages to other essential services.
Ongoing evaluation and community engagement are crucial to BHSA success. The community is encouraged to stay informed about local BHSA initiatives and participate in planning processes to ensure that services align with community needs and priorities. Moore said the fi rst step is the engagement with the community over the summer to get a sense of the needs and ensure that the feedback received is incorporated into the draft integrated plan.
“We will do a good analysis based on the community’s feedback to establish what the BHSA programs will look like going into the next fi scal year,” she said.
For more information about the BHSA or to seek support from ICBHS, contact ICBHS at (442)-265-1525 or 1-800-817-5292.
have addressed some 30,000 acres of exposed playa through habitat and dust suppression projects.
By the numbers game, the state is far from that target. Prior to fl ooding the East Expansion Pond, the state reported that some 3,200 acres of projects had been completed.
However, progress is starting to advance at a faster rate, fueled by new funding, including a state bond approved in 2024 that added $160 million to the more than $500
million already approved by the state in previous years, as well as the increased mix of federal funding.
Then, thanks to legislation by state Sen. Steve Padilla, who represents both San Diego and the Imperial Valley, a Salton Sea Conservancy has been established that will lead the development of funding for the operation and maintenance of the state’s restoration projects. The conservancy, which will be made up of state and local leaders, will launch in
2026 with $10 million in startup funding.
As an added sign of progress, the joint federal and state study of long-term restoration which will continue through 2029 could provide the lynchpin for restoration. Once a long-term path for restoration is selected, the federal government could provide 65 percent of matching funds to support restoration.
“There is growing momentum,” Esquivel said. “We are turning the page on the narrative.”
Water begins to flood the new pond at the Salton Sea. - Photo by Darren Simon
Partnering Together to Save Lives!
For 66 years, IID and Dippy Duck, who turned 59 this year, have presented the District’s successful water safety campaign, reinforcing the life-saving message to stay away from canals. This summer, IID is excited to make a $40,000 investment with 11 local entities to help offset expenses associated with keeping pools open, providing free or discounted swim days and swimming lessons, as well as water activities in the parks. Grants were awarded to the cities of Brawley, Calexico, Calipatria, El Centro, Holtville, Imperial, and Westmorland; Heber Public Utility District; Niland Chamber of Commerce; County of Imperial; and the Imperial Valley Desert Museum.
A huge shout-out to the local elementary schools and everyone involved in making the water safety program so successful.