2023 by ReliancePublicRelations

2023

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Imperial Valley College

4 29 2023

60th Anniversary Gala

Hall of Fame Awards Dinner Benefiting the Imperial Valley College Foundation For more information please contact the IVC Foundation office.

2023

Phone: (760) 355-6113

•

Email: ivcfoundation@imperial.edu

Publishers'

Message

Amalgam: Merriam-Webster defines Charla Teeters Stewart, the Imperial it as “a mixture of different elements.” County film commissioner, takes us From a broader perspective, it is an apt back to the setting of what at the time description of our Imperial Valley and its was the largest-ever outdoor set built for blending of geography, history, future, a movie. and people into something unique. We also tell you about the new curator We at Imperial Valley Alive! have and archivist hired by Pioneers Museum, enjoyed nearly seven years of honing whose plans include helping preserve in on the people, places, and stories for the future the history told within its of our community and its seemingly walls and on its grounds across from paradoxical qualities. Imperial Valley College. Our intention, way back in our first Within these pages you can learn -- or issue in Fall 2016, was to center each relearn -- how the Blue Angels, the U.S. edition of the magazine around a theme. Navy’s premier flight demonstration Story planning, however, often takes squadron, came to call Imperial County on a life of its own. We’ve learned to its winter home and about the expanding plan but then to let our story budget role women have in flight. metamorphose into something even From a personal perspective, better. our own Bill Gay shares This, our 23rd issue, the story of his is no exception. media flight with We are the Blue Angels pleased to a “few” years tell the story ago. Of our of Cesar five Reliance Guzman, who Public has made an Relations enormous partners and impact through citizenship Imperial Valley classes he has taught Alive publishers, three for the past 30 years. Tens March 3-12, 2023 – Bill Gay, Susan Giller and of thousands of students Peggy Dale -- have indelible have become U.S. citizens memories of media flights with the under his tutelage. “Blues.” So does Mickey Dale, Peggy’s We also gain insight into the unique husband, who took wing twice – once community of Bombay Beach, which as a 20-year-old DJ working for KXO sits along the northeastern shore of Radio and again while news anchor for the Salton Sea. This tiny collection of KECY-TV in the early 1990s. homes, mobile homes and trailers has Looking to the (near) future, Mickey become an art colony of sorts, with Dale gives us a glimpse of what’s in works of art on public display around store for racing fans at the California town. Mid-Winter Fair, which runs March 3-12. History plays a major role in these And our Calendar of Events offers some pages, with at least one futuristic twist. of the activities planned in the months With the return of Star Wars Day in ahead. early February, the Buttercup Dunes Sit back and enjoy the stories brought in eastern Imperial County once again to you in this issue of Imperial Valley were transformed into the planet of Alive.  Tatooine of “Return of the Jedi” fame.

Bill Gay

Susan Giller

Peggy Dale

Sue Gay

Bill Amidon 2023

INDEX |

Volume 7, Number 1 EDITORS & PUBLISHERS Bill Gay Sue Gay Susan Giller Peggy Dale Bill Amidon

CONTRIBUTORS

Antoine Abou-Diwan Mickey Dale Kris Haugh Ann Maloney Darren Simon Julie Smith Taylor Charla Teeters Stewart Shelby Trimm

COVER PHOTO

SOS Baja Dron and Jorge Vitela

Visitors sit amongst two of the many art installations along the shoreline in Bombay Beach. - Photo by Charla Teeters Stewart

EDUCATE |

PRESERVE |

CREATE |

INSIDE

Cesar Guzman helps thousands become U.S. citizens, Page 6

Pioneers Museum adds new director, archivist, Page 18

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Charla Teeters Stewart Bill Amidon Mickey Dale

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Alejandra Noriega

WEB DESIGNERS Jesus Uriarte Sergio Uriarte

SALES

Bill Amidon John Lovecchio Heidi Gutierrez

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Star Wars Day returns to Buttercup Sand Dunes, Page 8 Bombay Beach artistry on display, Page 10

VENTURE |

Fair putting its own twist to Speedweek, Page 12 Remembering media ﬂight with Blue Angels, Page 14 Flight demonstration squadron is show of strength, opportunity,

Page 16

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.

2023

COVER PHOTO: The Buttercup Sand Dunes in eastern Imperial County came to life Star Wars-style on Feb. 4. - Photo by SOS Baja Dron and Jorge Vitela

Publishers’ message, Page 3 Kid Wise, Page 5 Dining options, Pages 20-22 Calendar of events, Pages 24-25

2023

Students in a U.S. citizenship class at First United Methodist Church in El Centro are shown in early 2020 with instructor Cesar Guzman (back row, far left). - Photo provided by Cesar Guzman

Cesar Guzman

By Antoine Abou-Diwan

Brawley resident Nadia Valdez had just moved to the Imperial Valley from Los Angeles when she received a letter saying that she got a coveted appointment to take the U.S. Citizenship test. That interview was the only barrier keeping her from becoming a naturalized citizen with all the privileges, benefits and responsibilities that entails. Valdez was nervous. Although she had been living in the United States for more than 20 years, she feared that her English was not good enough to pass the test. “English is not our first language, so that makes you a little bit nervous or scared,” Valdez said. She needn’t have worried. An acquaintance referred her to Cesar Guzman, a long-standing citizenship instructor at Imperial Valley College who has helped more people become U.S. citizens than anybody else in the Valley. Guzman gave Valdez a much-needed dose of confidence and materials to help her pass the test. “As soon as he saw me, he started speaking with me, we started having a conversation. He said, ‘You’re going to pass,’” Valdez recalled. It’s difficult to overstate Guzman’s impact on the Imperial Valley. He has taught citizenship classes for over 30 2023

New citizens honor instructor years. He had helped more than 15,000 students like Valdez become U.S. citizens by 2016, the year the Imperial County Board of Supervisors adopted a resolution honoring Guzman for his work. A case can be made that Guzman’s efforts gave the Valley’s Hispanic community a push toward greater civic participation, broadening the demographics and diversity of prospective local voters. “I’ve been following politics in this Valley all my adult life. I can see the changes that have happened, and a lot of that has to do with new citizens,” said former Imperial County District 5 Supervisor Ray Castillo. “My experience is that new citizens Nadia Valdez celebrates her new U.S. vote at a greater rate than American-born citizenship. - Photo provided by Nadia Valdez citizens. There are a lot more Hispanics running for office than in the past. The “We were a family of 16. We were dirt Hispanic politicians have become more poor,” Guzman said. “Education was the visible.” only way to get ahead.” Guzman moved from Colorado to Guzman’s work eventually led him Brawley in 1968 for an elementary school to high school, where he taught social teaching job. He didn’t know anybody in studies and Spanish, and to Imperial the Valley. Valley College, where he taught political “I came here on Aug. 28. I got off science, psychology and English as a the Greyhound bus, I felt the heat second language. He has also served on but I couldn’t go back home. It was the Brawley Elementary School District embarrassing, I had to stick it out,” Board of Trustees for 45 years until he Guzman recalled. “retired” in 2020. He was re-elected to the Sticking it out meant teaching school BESD in 2022. and making the most of opportunities that came his way. “I’ll never run for anything else,” Guzman

said. “Education is what made me, it’s what helped us.” And when the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services opened an office in Calexico in 1989, Guzman signed up to get certified to teach citizenship classes. It was an opportunity to help his community get ahead. “When I first went to the (Imperial Irrigation District), it was all farmers and businessmen running the board. I said this has to change. The only way it changes is if we make people citizens,” Guzman said. That right to vote was important for Nadia Valdez. As a green card holder, the Sinaloa native had most of the rights and privileges that many Americans take for granted. She had the right to live and work anywhere in the United States. She had access to Social Security and other safety nets. And she could travel overseas up to six months at a time without fear of deportation. But she could not vote, nor could she serve on a jury. “[Citizenship] is so important to me, in the first place, because I have three kids, all of them were born here,” Valdez said. “The other more important thing for me is I wanted to vote.” Guzman set about to help Valdez prepare for her citizenship interview. She needed to study U.S. history and know the answer to 100 possible questions. “They ask us questions about United States history. For example, who is our president, who was Martin Luther King Jr., who was our first president? They ask you 10 questions. To pass, you have to answer six correctly,” Valdez said. Guzman gave Valdez reading materials as well as sample tests and quizzes to help her prepare. He also helped her fill out the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services form N-400, the application for naturalization. That extra help with the application, the coaching and confidence-building, is par for the course for Guzman, said Castillo, who taught citizenship classes with Guzman. “He’s a very kind and giving person. He doesn’t charge these folks to fill out these applications,” Castillo said. “He has helped thousands of people. He not only gave them classes but helped them fill out the applications. A lot of people make mistakes filling out the applications.” Some 809,100 people became new U.S. citizens in fiscal year

Instructor Cesar Guzman (fifth from left) is shown with one of his citizenship classes along with U.S. Rep. Juan Vargas, 52nd District. - Photo provided by Cesar Guzman 2021 during naturalization ceremonies held across the United States and around the world, according to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Mexico was the lead country among the top five countries of birth for people naturalizing in FY 2021, followed by India and the Philippines. Castillo remembers swearing-in ceremonies in 2007 and 2008, in which some 700 students became U.S. citizens in one day. “I’d say about 80 percent were taught by Mr. Guzman,” Castillo said. Valdez passed her citizenship test and attended her swearing-in ceremony in spring of 2022, becoming a U.S. citizen. She credits Guzman for helping her reach her goal. “He’s very nice. He’s very helpful. He’s always pushing you to do better,” Valdez said of Guzman. “He cares about you. He remembers all of us.” “For most people that take the classes, English is not our first language. I was afraid because of my English,” she continued. “He prepares you so well there is no way you’re going to fail.” Guzman said he’s proud of his students. “A lot of them were very special,” he said. “A lot of them continued to IVC, got degrees, and got great jobs working for government. You become eligible to work for government when you’re a citizen.” 

2023

Star Wars Day

By Charla Teeters Stewart

In a Galaxy (not so) far, far, away … Imperial County’s Buttercup Valley once again was transformed into the planet of Tatooine of Star Wars fame, marking the 40th anniversary of the release of “Return of the Jedi.” It was on Tatooine that the Sarlacc pit monster, a multi-tentacled alien beast with a gaping maw, inhabited the Great Pit of Carkoon and consumed anything that fell in. Tatooine was where Luke and Princess Leia defeated the mighty Jabba the Hutt and Han Solo saved Lando Calrissian from becoming a Sarlacc snack. In 1982, when the scene was filmed, this was the largest outdoor set ever constructed. On Feb. 4, Star Wars cosplayers, fans and kids gathered at the Bureau of Land Management’s Buttercup Ranger Station for Star Wars Day, a familyfriendly event that commemorated the filming of “Return of the Jedi” in the sand dunes and the 40th anniversary 2023

Event's return marks film milestone

of the film’s release. Attendees were welcomed by all manner of characters from the franchise. They had the opportunity to take an off-road adventure to the site where the set was constructed. Once out in the middle of the dunes they could explore various activities such as a Padawan relay race, Tatooine animal track identification station, an archeological dig, and an interpretive booth about the long and varied filming history of Imperial County and the desert. Back at the ranger station there were crafts, a Nerf target range and a fan art show to explore. There were also Jedi training sessions and Star Wars trivia that challenged even the most die-hard fan. In the afternoon, special guests Lee Koshe and Stephen Castantino took to the main stage for informative Q&A sessions where fans could dive into the history and nuances of their favorite fandom. Lee Kohse is a Californiaborn artist who provides illustrations for many projects – Star Wars, Lord

TOP PHOTO: Cosplayers from the group Base Mexicali roam the dunes and greet visitors at Star Wars Day on Feb. 4, 2023. BELOW: A Tusken Raider searches for Bantha tracks in the dunes as the '23 Star Wars Day in Buttercup Valley. - Photos courtesy of Charla Teeters Stewart

of the Rings, Aliens, The Karate Kid, Transformers, and more. He has provided images for Lucasfilm since 2006 and continues to contribute to the worlds of Star Wars and Indiana Jones. Stephen Castantino was on set for the filming of the Sarlacc Pit Monster scene as a Gamorrean Guard on Jabba’s barge. Stephen was friends with Corey Dee Williams (son of actor Billy Dee Williams) and was invited to the set so he and Corey could continue working on their music. Before long, Stephen was recruited for a part in the film. Star Wars Day 2023 ended with a screening of “Return of the Jedi” with an excited audience cheering on their favorite heroes and marveling at the beauty of the sand dunes and the significance of their place in cinematic history. Charla Teeters Stewart is the Imperial County film commissioner who wears many hats, including being a writer and photographer who works part-time for Reliance Public Relations, Inc., publisher of Imperial Valley Alive! and Valley Agribusiness magazines. 

Star Wars fans take in the day of activities at Star Wars Day '23 and mark the 40th anniversary of the film's release with a screening under the stars. - Photos courtesy of Charla Teeters Stewart

2023

An example of the many art installations scatted through the town of Bombay Beach. - Photo by Charla Teeters Stewart

Bombay

Beach

The Art of Ruin

By Charla Teeters Stewart

An unexpected vista awaits in Bombay Beach. As you top Avenue E, head in the direction of the Salton Sea and you'll be greeted by a unique juxtaposition of art and ruin. Sleek, modern metal cubes and mirrored monoliths live next to a deconstructed pirate ship and a bus-stop-to-nowhere. It beckons you to explore. Stepping from a car for a closer look, a visitor approaches the water's edge. Now your ears pick up a unique syncopation. The uneven crunch of footsteps on the shore punctuates the calming rhythms of the azure sea lapping against the shore. It's a fitting accompaniment to the visual treat of the creative and sometimes haunting art installations in the beach area. Visitors on a mid-February day are Vince Allen of Palm Springs and his friend Alex Muir of Vancouver, British Columbia. Newly retired, they've decided to do something they've been putting off for years. They finally visit Bombay Beach. Muir strolls among the installations, reading a magazine article from his phone that explains the unique pieces of art. Allen says he has been excited to see the art of Bombay Beach. But the city itself also interested him. “I love to visit places from days gone by, places with history 2023

Tao Ruspoli talks about how the Biennale was created. - Photo by Peggy Dale to them,” he said. “Also, I have seen this place in many films and on the small screen. I wanted to come experience all those things I had been reading about in person.” The art of Bombay Beach is in fact not limited to the shoreline. It spreads throughout this geometrically shaped town, creating an intriguing visual tapestry. The town (population 215) encompasses only 20 blocks or so. But everywhere structures and vacant lots are transformed into works of art, performance venues and community gathering places. Since 2016 the Bombay Beach Biennale has helped shape this once struggling town into a destination for artists, creators,

and curious tourists. Bombay Beach resident and entrepreneur Sonia Herbert appreciates what the Biennale brings to the town. “The artists have invested in the community, put Bombay on the map,” she said. “This movement, these artists, are the best thing to happen to our town.” Biennale co-founder Tao Ruspoli (with partners Stefan Ashkenazy and Lily Johnson White) visited Bombay Beach for the first time in 2008 and was immediately enthralled. “As someone interested in the intersection of art and politics, I found this place to be fascinating. I started bringing friends here, but there was nowhere to sleep,” said Ruspoli. In 2011 he bought his first property and the transformation began. Since then, he and other artists have continued investing in the town. They have turned what started as a weekend event of art moments into a full-blown art movement. The Biennale has become a whole season, encompassing the winter months of January to March. Its website states, "During Biennale season artists, philosophers, musicians, and community members gather to celebrate the strange and wonderful place that is Bombay Beach” (BombayBeachBiennale.org). This was intentional. Ruspoli shared that “the Biennale was never meant to be just an event. It was meant to be both a movement and an experiment in using art to revive this place, bring attention to it from the outside world, breathe new life into it, provoke questions and shine a light on all the issues going on here.” To foster community, creators are encouraged to reside in Bombay Beach during the Biennale season.

Ever wanted to spend the night in a piece of art? The Nest in Bombay Beach is not only a feast for the eyes but is available for rent on airbnb. BOTTOM PHOTO: Washington State residents Tony and Marla Wynand get their picture taken at an art installation along the CONTINUED | PAGE 26 shoreline of Bombay Beach. - Photo by Charla Teeters Stewart

2023

Two Go-Karts power around the north turn on the 1/5th mile track at the 2022 California Mid-Winter Fair. - Photo by Mickey Dale

Speedweek

Racing is highlight of 2023 Fair

By Mickey Dale

The Daytona International Speedway in Florida annually hosts a wide variety of races known by fans simply as Speedweeks. The California Mid-Winter Fair will host its own Speedweek featuring a wide range of races during this year's March 3-12 fair. Utility Terrain Vehicles (UTVs) will begin the week, and the Fair, followed by Go-Karts battling on a specially constructed high-banked 1/5-mile track in front of the grandstands on the opening Sunday. A couple days later, the Heritage Sport Compacts will take to the ¼-mile oval for the first of two shows. The Heritage Sport Compacts have turned into a popular addition during fairtime activities. The UTVs, known as side-by-sides by the off-road faithful, will compete on a road course utilizing numerous turns and exciting jumps. While traditional off-road races run in the desert and spectators can see only some of the action, the UTVs will race directly in front of the venerable fairgrounds grandstands for the enjoyment of race fans. This year brings Go-Kart racing back to the fair for the 2023

Full-size sprint cars return to the fair after a couple of decades. Here a sprint car is shown during a recent practice session at the Imperial track.

second time in consecutive fairs. The miniature speedsters have seen a resurgence in popularity throughout Southern California in recent years with meets held in Campo, among numerous venues in the area. The second weekend will feature the return of full-size sprint cars to the fair. Up to 410 cubic-inch methanol-burning engines will power what is expected to be a large field of drivers from throughout the southwestern United States. The programs will be shared with A UTV goes over a jump on the specially the combination of the Lucas Oil constructed off-road track at the 2022 fair. POWRi Southwest Lightning Sprints Photos by Mickey Dale and California Lightning Sprints organizations, meeting up in the first RACING SCHEDULE race of the six-round Best of the West March 3 March 10* series. The winged racers will join the 6 p.m. 6 p.m Southern California Open Competition Southern California UTV Races Non Wing Sprint Cars taking to the Open Comp Non-Wing recently widened and banked ¼-mile Sprint Cars/Southwest Imperial Valley Speedway oval. They will Lightning Sprints compete for a $5,000 first prize that is March 4 *REQUIRES EXTRA TICKET expected to draw drivers to the Imperial 6 p.m. FOR AGES 18 AND UP track from throughout the country, just UTV Races as it did for years when drivers like March 11* Parnelli Jones, Johnny Rutherford and 6 p.m. the Unser family converged on the Southern California March 5 Valley. Open Comp Non-Wing 1 p.m. Sprint Cars/Southwest The Heritage Sport Compacts will Go Kart Racing Lightning Sprints complete the blockbuster Speedweek in * REQUIRES EXTRA TICKET the Heritage 500 on the final Sunday. FOR AGES 18 AND UP Speedweek, Imperial Valley style, March 8 means there will be something for most 6 p.m. March 12 motorsports enthusiasts at the 2023 Heritage Sport 2 p.m. California Mid-Winter Fair, beginning Compacts Heritage 500 March 3. 

The Lightning Sprints return to the fair and will have their wings over the protective cage during the 2023 fair.

The Heritage Compact Cars once again will highlight the fair with the Heritage 500.

2023

Bill Gay gets ready for takeoff in the back seat of a Blue Angels jet during his flight in March 1984. - Images scanned from Gay's copy of the Imperial Valley Press plate from March 8, 1984. Photos taken by Paul J. Noden.

Blue Angels

By Bill Gay

EDITOR'S NOTE: Our country’s military aviators are the best in the world. In the Imperial Valley, we are treated to an annual view of how good they are. The Blue Angels have made this their winter training headquarters for the past 56 seasons. In recent years, their Air Force counterparts, the Thunderbirds have joined the Blues here for joint practice operations. Now, that is a real treat. But get any group of military folks— active duty or veterans—together, conversation can (and frequently does) turn into kidding about the various military communities that are present. This story, written for the March 8, 1984 edition of the Imperial Valley Press, is an example of some of that goodhearted banter.

Naval engineers work so deep in the bowels of a ship that when they come topside, their ears pop. It can take them hours to get used to 2023

Ride of a lifetime natural light and fresh air. On an aircraft carrier, "snipes" are in a world of their own. Fellow crewmen keep their distance. And no selfrespecting aviator would come within a mile of the hot, noisy main control room or the even hotter, noisier boiler rooms. And the feeling is mutual. “Airdales" talk with their hands. They are afraid to get dirty. The only time Bill Gay is shown before his flight. they speak to "snipes" is when the ready room air conditioning is broken or they run out of hot water. So it's only natural that a snipe — even one who has been out of an engine room for more than a decade — would hesitate to voluntarily climb into a cramped cockpit of a Navy jet and turn his whole future over to a young “airdale.” It took three attempts. But the Navy finally succeeded. Senior Chief Journalist David Nixon, public affairs officer of the Naval Air Facility, didn't leave a way out. “Bill Gay, I'm not letting you get Gay gives a thumb's up after landing. CONTINUED | PAGE 28

Veg

Growers

Grows scholars for ag future

Members of the Imperial Valley Vegetable Growers Association (IVVGA) are united in their dedication to providing the nation with the safest, freshest, most nutritious produce today and well into the future. In Imperial Valley, the fertile produce fields and bountiful harvests make the successes of vegetable growers hard to miss. The numbers add an exclamation point. Valley produce was valued at more than $1 billion in 2021, the most recent year for which figures are available. No wonder the region, with a unique winter growing season and extraordinary harvest, earned the title of the nation’s winter salad bowl. Equally important, though not as visible as overflowing produce bins, is IVVGA's dedication to the future. With each produce crop planted, IVVGA members help sow the seeds of the industry’s future by investing in scholarships. IVVGA gave 17 scholarships to college-bound Valley youth this year with a record $19,500 raised for the program. It was the most money raised in a single year in the organization’s 45-year history of giving scholarships to students who pursue majors in agriculture, said IVVGA Executive Director Shelby Trimm. It also is the most amount of scholarships awarded to students since the scholarship program’s inception in 1978. Since then, IVVGA has invested in the college education of some 150 local students. “Our community is incredibly important to us,” she said. “And we believe the future of our industry depends on young leadership. That is why we are proud to invest in our future local leaders through the scholarship program.” Funding for the scholarships comes from voluntary contributions from IVVGA members and an annual fundraising event. The scholarships are available for graduating high school students and those attending a four-year college majoring in an agricultural field. High school applicants for IVVGA scholarships must have a 3.3 grade-point average or better; applying college students must have a 3.0 GPA or better. In addition to academic achievement, scholarship applicants must have extra-curricular and community activities and demonstrate financial need. A committee of IVVGA board members interview the students and award them respective scholarships based on the above criteria. Agriculture offers endless degree and career opportunities for interested students. There are ag majors that prepare students for careers in education, computer sciences, accounting, veterinary sciences, agronomy, business, and many more. The current crop of IVVGA scholarship recipients has wideranging interests and impressive aspirations. For example, one student awarded an IVVGA scholarship this year is Kendall Shields of Brawley. In her application, she wrote the scholarship would help her to move on to a Ph.D. program “to become a plant geneticist/biochemist on a mission to improve the health of fields and the communities they feed.” Information about the IVVGA scholarships and application forms are available at ivvga.com.  2023

U.S. Navy Lcdr. Julius Bratton, now lead solo pilot for the Blue Angels, took Imperial Assistant City Manager Alexis Brown on a VIP flight in 2020. - Photo courtesy of Alexis Brown

El Centro

Air Show By Kris Haugh and Ann Maloney

The Blue Angels have made Naval Air Facility, El Centro, their winter training home for 56 years thanks largely to the persuasive talents of El Centro’s first Black mayor, Dubois McGee. Thanks to McGee’s efforts, Imperial Valley residents have a front row seat to the Navy’s aerobatic flight team’s daily practice sessions from January to March each year. Formed by the Navy in 1946 to keep the public interested in naval aviation, the Blue Angels are one of the oldest flight demonstration teams in the world. In the mid-1960s, the Blues’ previous winter training location was being shut down and the team needed to find a new place to hone the aerial excellence 2023

A show of strength, opportunity

they demonstrate almost weekly at air shows and events across the United States and abroad. In 1966, McGee became mayor of El Centro. A visionary and trailblazer, Dubois McGee McGee immediately saw an opportunity that he believed would benefit the Imperial Valley and the Navy. That year he participated in a civilian orientation tour at the Naval Air Training Command in Pensacola, Fla. McGee went to lobby, competing against Phoenix and Tucson, Ariz., among other cities, to

provide the Blue Angels with a winter training location. He was very persuasive and convinced the Navy that NAF El Centro would be the Blues’ perfect winter training home. However, he had more persuading to do when he returned to El Centro. He informed the City Council of his actions, much to their consternation. It seems that McGee failed to consult them beforehand. However, all was forgiven once he described the need for expediency in the decision. As the Blue Angels embark on their 76th show season and NAF El Centro prepares for its 52nd air show, there is plenty to celebrate. This year marks the 50th anniversary of Women Flying in the Navy and the 30th anniversary

of the lifting of the combat exclusion for women. In 1973, the first eight women began flight school in Pensacola. One year later six of those eight women earned the title "The First Six" when they earned their Wings of Gold. In the 50 years since, naval aviation has expanded its roles for women to lead and serve globally. Today, women aviators project power from the sea and in every type, model, and series of aircraft. They fly and fight in all strike missions, hunt submarines, protect the integrity of our nuclear triad, supply essential cargo and personnel to every corner of the globe, and rescue those in distress at sea and ashore. They command aircraft carriers, carrier air wings, squadrons, and missions to space. In 2023, the 50th Anniversary of Women Flying in the Navy pays tribute to all women naval aviators — “The First Six”, and all those who have come since. Our nation and Navy are stronger because of their service. The path for success of these trailblazers was established in 1972 by Admiral Elmo R. Zumwalt, famous for

his “Z-Grams” that heralded changes to Navy structure and policies and resulted in breaking barriers and creating opportunities. Z-Gram #116, Equal Rights and Opportunities For Women In The Navy, established Zumwalt’s vision that within the Navy “we all must actively work together in order that we may more equitably include women in our one-navy concept.” Then on Nov. 3, 1993, the passage of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1994 (Public Law 103-160, Statute 1659) allowed female service members to serve in combat units and onboard combatant vessels. Congress continued Zumwalt’s legacy by codifying new opportunities for women in the military services. All of this brings us to the 2023 air show at NAF El Centro. The gates will open at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 11. This year one of “The First Six” will be in attendance along with many other trailblazers of Women Flying in Naval Aviation. Additionally, we are planning an all-female “air parade” to demonstrate not only the types of

Alexis Brown sits in the cockpit before her flight. - Photo courtesy of Alexis Brown aircraft flown by the Navy, but also the opportunities that everyone has to fly for their country. Everywhere you look during this year’s air show, you will see women who have served, are currently serving, and even those who dream of serving their country one day in the future. As we reflect on the history of El Centro and the legacy of inspiring change, it is important to recognize the influence that Mayor McGee had. His dedication to growth in the Valley is evident in our love for the Blue Angels and their excellence. With Lt. Amanda CONTINUED | PAGE 28

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2023

A Holt Caterpillar Tractor Model 60 sits on display during Pioneers' Day in February 2020. - Image courtesy of Michael Dahm, Eagle Eye Photography, and Pioneers’ Museum

Pioneers' Museum

By Julie Smith Taylor

The new year brings new beginnings to Pioneers’ Museum with the addition of Director Caitlin Chávez and Archivist Tyler Brinkerhoff. Both Chávez and Brinkerhoff were hired by the museum following a nationwide search. Both are new to the Imperial Valley and come with professional museum training and experience along with lots of enthusiasm, new ideas, and fresh perspectives. “We are looking at new ways to increase the number of events, exhibitions and public programming at the museum in order to fulfill our goal of bringing history to life for our residents and those beyond Imperial Valley,” said Chávez. Before accepting her position as director, Chávez served in a variety of roles. Most recently, she held dual positions as an adjunct instructor of Art 2023

New leadership launches new chapter

History at Imperial Valley College and instructor of Arts & Humanities at Lamar State College-Orange in Orange, Texas, near Beaumont, Texas, where she was born and raised. It’s also where she met her husband, who is a Chicano Studies/ Ethnic Studies professor at Imperial Valley College. Chavez’s educational background includes a bachelor’s degree in French from Lamar University in Beaumont. From there, she traveled to the University of Kent in Canterbury, United Kingdom, where she earned a master of arts degree in Modern French Studies. Her second master’s degree is an MA in Art History from the University of Houston. Chávez also worked as an intern in the public relations and curatorial departments at the Museum of Fine Arts in Houston. In her professional experiences, she has developed an extensive portfolio of award-winning writing, event planning, and educational

programming. One of their biggest priorities, both Chávez and Brinkerhoff said, is to get the museum’s massive collections upto-date and digitized so they can be made more easily accessible online via QR codes. Brinkerhoff said, “By doing so, we can attract researchers from virtually anywhere who are looking for details and answers to their questions. Water in the West is one of the most popular topics. “Researchers are especially interested in the irrigation and the water usage story here in the Imperial Valley,” he said. “By digitizing our archives, we will be not only helping researchers more easily find the answers they are looking for about our region, but also helping genealogists and students at every level who want to learn more about the people and the history of the Imperial Valley.” Brinkerhoff, who is married and has

a baby son, is a graduate of Weber State University in Ogden, Utah. There, he worked extensively with archives at the Museums at Union Station. His efforts helped the museum work on its accreditation through the American Alliance of Museums. He also recently earned a master’s degree in public history from James Madison University in the heart of Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. His work at the Rocktown History Museum in Dayton, Va., focused on the early history of pioneers moving west in the late 1700s and early 1800s. “I spent the majority of my time scanning and digitizing ledger books of area citizens in the 1860s who subscribed to a series of music books that were some of the earliest items printed locally,” he said. “I then made them available online, developed a website and also created an exhibit to share those musical traditions with others. “It was a very fulfilling project because I’ve always had a love of genealogy and enjoy helping people find information about their families,” he said. Brinkerhoff, who is part of a pioneering

Caitlin Chávez

Tyler Brinkerhoff

An old Imperial Hotel bus from the early 1900s is shown during Pioneers' Day in February 2020. - Image courtesy of Michael Dahm, Eagle Eye Photography, and Pioneers’ Museum

family, grew up on a farm established by his great-great-grandfather, who came West more than 100 years ago. He understands the struggles and challenges of working the land. In particular, he has a keen interest in all of the farming equipment and machinery found at Pioneers’ Museum that have little or few details posted. “Over time, we’d like to create a walking trail around

the museum (grounds) so that people can learn about these items, take a closer look and get some exercise, too,” he said. Chávez adds, “We see a lot of potential and freedom in our roles to teach the public about their heritage and expand the narrative as broadly as possible.” In terms of their vision for CONTINUED | PAGE 27

2023

NOURISH |

Valley's Eateries

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

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

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

2023

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

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

Locally Owned

$10 & under per person

Beer/Wine only

$20 & under per person

Full Bar

Over $20 per person

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Famous Dave's $$ 3103 S. Dogwood Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-352-9044 https://bit.ly/3iPxIsf

Hot Rod's & Beer $$ 235 West E 5th St, Holtville, CA 92250 760-356-9900 https://hotrodsnbeer. com

Panera Bread $$ 2321 S. 4th St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-332-6499 www.panerabread.com

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

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

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

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

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

IHOP $$ 2362 S. 4th St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-352-1100 www.ihop.com

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

Buffalo Wild Wings $$ 510 Danenberg Dr, Dogwood Sports El Centro, CA 92243 Bar & Grill $$ 760-337-9481 www.buffalowildwings.com 3603 S. Dogwood Rd, El Centro, CA 92243 760-970-4668 https://bit.ly/2UjlAFL

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

Pepper Grind Coffee $ 1560 Pepper Dr, El Centro, CA 92243 https://bit.ly/3j3jcxd Red Feather Off-Road Market & Cafe $ 1182 N. Imperial Hwy, Ocotillo, CA 92259 760-358-7389 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 $$ 1075 Adams Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-353-2798 https://bit.ly/3wFTh2y Fortune Garden $$ 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

Kotori Japanese Food $$ 300 E Cole Blvd, Calexico, CA 92231 760-768-8540 https://bit.ly/3zHPbZE

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

Lucky Chinese Restaurant $$ 500 S. 4th St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-352-7680 www.luckyrestaurant.com Volcano $$ 445 E. Main St, El Centro, CA 92243 Los Ce-B-Ches $$ 760-337-9105 1074 E Coles Blvd Ste 7, volcanoelcentro.com 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

The Thai Bistro 775 E. Danenberg Dr. Ste. 105 El Centro, CA 92243 (760) 592-4611 exoticthaibistro.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

K Sushi Bar & Grill $$ 416 S. J St, Imperial, CA 92251 760-355-4440 https://bit.ly/3zyKbWT

Sushi & Noodle $$ 800 N. Imperial Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 442-283-5075

George’s Pizza $$ 116 W 5th St, Holtville, CA 92250 760-356-1192 https://bit.ly/3cPgc3A

Khan Korean BBQ $$ 330 Wake Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-353-0202 https://bit.ly/3gy1hwY

Sushi & Noodles $$ 630 S Brawley Ave, Unit #6, Brawley, CA 92227 760-623-1361 https://bit.ly/3E6JANF

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 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

Birrieria y Menuderia Guadalajaras $ 845 Imperial Ave, Calexico, CA 92231 760-890-5181 https://bit.ly/3cNjmoc Briseida's Kitchen $$ 741 Cesar Chavez Blvd, Calexico, CA 92231 760-618-9180 https://bit.ly/3b2oeod Cardenas Markets $$ 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 www.celiasrestaurants.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 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

Cilantros La Taqueria $ 643 S 4th St Ste 1, Flautas & Sopes $ El Centro, CA 92243 715 Cesar Chavez Blvd, 760-693-5337 Calexico, CA 92231 https://bit.ly/3gBgdJu 760-357-0655 D’Lupita's www.flautasysopesusa.site Restaurant $$ 336 W 5th St, Hacienda Market & Holtville, CA 92250 Snack Bar $ 760-356-7100 https://bit.ly/3gwwvo5 941 K St, Brawley, CA 92227 D'Poly Taco, Grill & 760-344-5542 Beer $$ https://bit.ly/3b0ILJR 1573 W. Main St, El Centro, CA 92243 Holtville Taco Shop $ 760-970-4243 404 E 5th St, https://bit.ly/35vdKLw Holtville, CA 92250 760-356-5756 El Cañon $ 625 Main St, www.holtvilletacoshop.com Brawley, CA 92227 760-344-2411 Jalisco's Bar & Grill $$ El Jumping Bean 844 N. Imperial Ave, Taquieria $$ 1050 S. Brawley Avenue El Centro, CA 92243 760-353-2515 Brawley, CA 92227 https://bit.ly/3nhTvsZ (760) 623-115011

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 2023

Johnny's Burritos 301 Wake Ave., El Centro, CA 92243 760-353-0963 https://bit.ly/3cLY2Qb

Johnny's Burritos 105 S. Imperial Ave., Imperial CA 92251 760-355-0962 https://bit.ly/3vzAxAh

K Taquiza Restaurant $ 249 E Main St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-693-5088 https://bit.ly/3GcVSpA Karina's Mexican Food $$ 845 Adams Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-337-0027 https://bit.ly/3njjQXG Kennedy's Taco $ 1560 Ocotillo Dr, El Centro, CA 92243 760-970-4019 https://bit.ly/3m8DAOx

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

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

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

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

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

Letty's Casita $$ 705 S. 4th St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-352-8170 https://bit.ly/3wBPpPV

La Resaca $$ 143 S. 6th St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-592-4971 https://bit.ly/3vFQox3

Los Cabos Seafood & Grill $$ 201 N. Imperial Ave, El Centro, CA 92243 760-693-5393 https://bit.ly/35xq51E

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

Nickey’s Mexican Restaurant $$ 644 Main St Brawley, CA 92227 442-646-9492 Mexca Brew Co. 612 W Main St, El Centro, CA 92243 760-970-4544 https://bit.ly/2SkabEM

Mi Casita $$ 324 S. Imperial Ave. Ste B, Calexico, CA 92231 760-556-9895 https://bit.ly/3cO17PE

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

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

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

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

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

Sofia’s Kitchen $$ 395 A St Ste B Brawley, CA 92227 (760) 623-1777

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

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

2023

COLAB

Solar casts pall on local economy

By Shelby Trimm, Executive Director, Coalition of Labor, Agriculture & Business Historically, the Coalition of Labor, Agriculture, and Business has been a supporter of renewable energy, and we support the County of Imperial for seeking a diverse portfolio of energy development. In the past decade, the Imperial Valley has seen an increase in solar development, especially on productive farmland. Nearly 24,000 acres in the Imperial Valley are permitted for solar projects, the vast majority on agricultural land. While there is a need for solar energy in California, these projects come at a cost to the citizens of the Imperial Valley. With the steady rise in solar development projects comes the decline in productive farmland. More solar development on ag land equals fewer jobs, less tax revenue, and less food for the entire nation. The Imperial Valley produces an estimated two-thirds of vegetables consumed in the United States during the winter. This is not an easy task, and it becomes increasingly difficult to accomplish when less land is available to grow the produce that feeds the nation. In the last 12 years, Imperial County has approved the development of solar projects on 28,273 acres of local land, according to a report that Imperial County Planning Director Jim Minnick recently made to the Board of Supervisors. Of that total, 20,859 acres permitted for utility-scale solar development is farmland. Some of those projects are not yet built or are pending approval. However, today 1,914 megawatts of utility-scale solar farms operate on 13,745 acres of Imperial Valley farmland. While solar projects create jobs during construction, they operate with few workers and, thanks to state legislation, pay reduced taxes to local governments. What is an alternative solution to these solar developments that continue to cause harm to Imperial Valley’s community? Geothermal development and soon lithium extraction from geothermal brine. Unlike solar, geothermal generates electricity 24 hours a day, not just during daylight hours. Geothermal power plants provide local tax revenues and create good-paying jobs without taking cropland out of production. And lithium development and the potential of lithium battery production can create new jobs, other industries, and more economic diversity for the region. In contrast, solar development on agricultural land significantly impacts our economy, job availability, and the environment in which we live.  2023

Mardi Gras parade travels along Eighth Street in El Centro on Feb. 18, 2023. - Photo by Alejandra Noriega

Calendar of Events March 4 Ocotillo Blooms 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Imperial Valley Desert Museum, 11 Frontage Road, Ocotillo. Join Imperial Valley Desert Museum for a free community event celebrating the desert bloom. Event features music, games, guided hikes, talks, kid-friendly activities, and a live butterfly release.

March 3-12 California Mid-Winter Fair Gates open at 3 p.m. March 3, at noon March 4, 5, 11, 12, and at 5 p.m. March 6-10. For information, visit www. ivfairgrounds.com

March 3-4 24

Fifth annual Old School Roundup Meet and greet at 7 p.m. March 3, Olds, Glamis. Show starts at10 a.m. March 4, 2023

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.

Vendor Row, Glamis. Participants should be at Vendor Row no later than 9 a.m. Giveaways start at noon, followed by awards and trophies.

March 5 IVDM Lowlanders: Border fence, Jacumba 8 a.m., hikers leave Imperial Valley Desert Museum parking lot, 11 Frontage Road, Ocotillo. This moderate hike is about 3 miles round trip. It is dogfriendly and will take hikers to and from the fence between the United States and Mexico.

March 8 WOW! Gala 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., CasaBlanca Venue, 2060 E. Highway 80, Holtville. Presented by the Chamber of Commerce for

Greater Brawley in partnership with CasaBlanca Venue. WOW, Women of Wonder, will honor Imperial Valley Women who lead by example through resiliency, courage, and determination. Tickets are $80 per person, $150 per couple. For more information, visit www. brawleychamber.com/2023-imperialvalley-wow-gala.

March 8 Paint & Sip International Women's Day 5:30 to 7 p.m., Old Post Office Pavilion, 230 S. 5th St., El Centro. Enjoy an evening out with friends and create your own masterpiece with step-by-step guidance from instructor Kimberly Alfaro. Cost is $50 per person, $90 for two

people, and $160 for four. Cost includes one drink, canvas, paint, and guided instruction. Reservations may be made by emailing kayla@ivregionalchamber.com or calling the Imperial Valley Regional Chamber at 760-352-7413.

March 11 El Centro Air Show 8:30 a.m., gates open at Naval Air Facility El Centro. The El Centro Air Show will offer a “preflight” experience with entertainment and food, including cars and a live band, and more in a brand new ground layout. The objective of this event is to keep the public informed of military services preparedness, demonstrate modern weapons systems, enhance community relations, and promote recruiting.

March 11

March 24, 25, 26

IV Symphony "Salute to Mexican Composers¨ 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., Jimmie Cannon Theater at Southwest High School, 2001 Ocotillo Drive, El Centro.

Yuma Home & Garden Show 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 24 and 25, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 26, Yuma Civic Center, 1445 W. Desert Hills Drive, Yuma. Hosted by Ross Co Events.

March 11 Jacumba Hikers: Morena Butte 8 a.m., Lake Morena Ranger Station. Day permit/fee, $3.00. This eight-mile hike begins at Lake Morena on a trail in a pine forest. It includes hiking some difficult trails, over huge slabs of granite, and up to three broad, widely-spaced summits with 1,500-foot elevation gain/loss. For information, 760-358-7016.

March 15 Yuma Gem and Mineral Show 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Yuma Swap Meet, 4000 S. 4th Ave., Yuma. Free to the public, the Yuma Gem & Mineral Show is in conjunction with the Yuma Swap Meet. Vendors will be displaying a wide range of gems, minerals, crystals, rocks, and fossils from all over the world. Yuma Swap Meet has partitioned off more than 200 outdoor vending spaces exclusively for the Yuma Gem & Mineral Show vendors. This vending area will be fenced in with overnight security. For further information, call 928-726-4655 or send email to GemandMineralShow@ YumaSwapMeet.com

March 18 Traditional craft day: Pendant weaving 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Imperial Valley Desert Museum, 11 Frontage Road, Ocotillo. Admission is free.

March 19 IVDM Lowlanders: Painted Gorge 8 a.m., leaves Imperial Valley Desert Museum parking lot, 11 Frontage Road, Ocotillo. This hike is dog-friendly and explores the Painted Gorge, a canyon of color near Ocotillo.

March 25 Pathways to Success Expo 2023 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Imperial Valley College, 380 E. Aten Road, Imperial. Event includes workshops, free lunch, career fair with onsite job opportunities. Workshops will address financial skill sets including opening a bank account and good credit/bad credit and employment skill sets such as resumewriting, interview tips and new-hire paperwork. An education workshop will focus on local options with a guidance counselor, admissions, and financial aid. The career fair will feature more than 100 available local job positions. Registration is required at http://bit. ly/3jWMTTv. For questions or additional information, email kayla@ ivregionalchamber.com.

March 25 Jacumba Hikers: Round Mountain 8 a.m., Jacumba Community Park, 44605 Old Highway 80, Jacumba. This 5-mile hike traverses highdesert terrain to the base of Round Mountain, then hike to the uppermost peak for views of Jacumba Valley and beyond. A strenuous hike, it requires bouldering and off-trail hiking up and down rocky, slippery, steep slopes. For further information, call 760-358-7016.

April 1 Traditional craft day: Games 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Imperial Valley Desert Museum, 11 Frontage Road, Ocotillo. Variety of games reflecting the heritage of the region's many indigenous peoples. Bring your friends and family out for a day of skill, luck, collaboration, and friendly competition! This event is free to all visitors of IVDM, no reservations required.

A cholla blooms in this photo taken in March 2021. Join the Imperial Valley Desert Museum for Ocotillo Blooms! from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 4 at 11 Frontage Road, Ocotillo. - Photo by Peggy Dale

April 1 Pioneer Day 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Pioneers Museum, 373 E. Aten Road, Imperial. Event features historical displays, antique equipment, hands-on activities for children, local entertainment and food for purchase. Admission is free.

April 2 IVDM Lowlanders: Davies Valley 8 a.m., leaves Imperial Valley Desert Museum’s parking lot. Explore the towering vistas of Davies Valley and its “high cliffs.” This dog-friendly intermediate hike involves minor elevation gains and covers soft, sandy ground.

April 8 Jacumba Hikers: Table Mountain 8 a.m., meet at Valley of the Moon Trail Kiosk/Parking on Old Highway 80. Ascend the steep incline of Table Mountain and marvel at the lush panorama below of Jacumba Valley. This five-mile hike includes both Table Mountain and Squaw Tit Red Rock Plateaus. Expect off-trail steep inclines/declines with slippery rocks and some bouldering. For further directions contact IVDM, 760-358-7016.

April 20 Imperial Valley Regional Business Showcase 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., Casa de Mañana, Imperial Valley Fairgrounds. Tickets are

$5 each. With more than 100 local businesses, including restaurants, services, retail, and informational, don't miss the opportunity to win drawing prizes, learn about local business, and network. There will be cash drawings of $250, $500, and $1,000. For more information or to participate as a vendor, call (760) 352-7413 or email kayla@ivregionalchamber.com

April 22 Jacumba Hikers: Blue Angels Peak and Nopal Peak 8 a.m., meet at Valley of the Moon Trail Kiosk/Parking on Old Highway 80. This rugged hike begins on a narrow, steep trail and will take us into the Jacumba Wilderness near the Mexican border before going off-trail and up to Blue Angel's Peak (elevation 4,548 feet) and Nopal Peak. This hike is six miles with bouldering and an elevation gain/loss of 1,400 feet. For further directions contact IVDM, 760-358-7016.

May 13 ABATE 38 Stimulus Run 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Stops include the Lazy Lizard, Applebee’s in Calexico, Costalles, and ending at Los Cabos in El Centro for lunch. “Lots of cash prizes” are promised. The run is organized by Coyne Powersports, 2351 S. 4th St., El Centro.  2023

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This allows them to share their art in various ways. Biennale features performances, painting, sculptures, and community events. Washington state residents Tony and Marla Wynand last visited Bombay Beach 10 years ago. They remarked on the changes to the town since that time. “We used to come here to have a beer and a burger at the Ski Inn. But now you can make a whole day of roaming the town and immersing yourself in experiences and art you never even imagined,” said Tony. One must-see exhibit (a favorite of Ruspoli’s) is housed in a cargo container. It is aptly titled the art of ruin by its creator, photographer Robert Stivers. This installation is composed of gripping, oversized, black and white photographs, curated to showcase the beauty one can find in the remains of something destroyed and discarded. For those who have not yet visited Bombay Beach, or been there recently, it is worth it to take a drive there. Now is a perfect time, since the Bombay Beach’s Biennale 2023 continues through March. During this season, in addition to the permanent installations, there is an opportunity to interact with artists spending time in Bombay Beach to work, foster community, and share their work. During these months volunteers also lead various talks, workshops, and openings. There’s lots to see and do!

The "da Vinci Fish" plane rotates softly in the breeze in Bombay Beach at the local coffee shot. Photo - Charla Teeters Stewart A visitor stops to take a photo on the shoreline of Bombay beach Photo by Charla Teeters Stewart

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Charla Teeters Stewart is the Imperial County film commissioner who wears many hats, including being a writer and photographer who works part-time for Reliance Public Relations, Inc., publisher of Imperial Valley Alive! and Valley Agribusiness magazines. 

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the future, Chávez said there will be an emphasis on public outreach via social media, public relations and marketing. “We have so many ideas,” she said. For instance, the pair want to:  Create a summer history camp for kids  Expand the museum’s 5th-grade program  Create internships and volunteer opportunities for college students in the Valley and San Diego  Collaborate with institutional partners like the Desert Museum (in Ocotillo) to offer cross programming  Look at new ways to preserve and expand the current exhibits and galleries, especially our international galleries  And create new exhibits to attract more visitors. Chávez said they are already looking to develop an exhibit that features well-known celebrities with Valley roots and the region’s cross-over to the film industry. For example, World Wrestling Entertainment champions and reality TV stars the Bella Twins have local relatives. And legendary singer and entertainer Cher was born in El Centro. “We have such an interesting and storied history beyond agriculture,” Chávez said. “We are also looking to create a walking tour of our interior exhibitions that highlights the achievements of significant women in the Valley whose contributions have impacted so many lives and who have achieved so many firsts. We also want to expand our exhibition offerings. For instance, United Farm Worker Activist Cesar Chávez’s wife, Helen Fabela Chávez, grew up in Brawley. Many people don’t know that. Our focus will be to continue to add, to expand, and highlight local voices and stories.” Chávez added, “It’s an exciting time to be at the museum

A leather-tooling demonstration takes place at Pioneers' Day in February 2020. - Image courtesy of Michael Dahm, Eagle Eye Photography, and Pioneers’ Museum. and to live in the Imperial Valley. Tyler and I are honored to serve in our roles so we can continue our mission to share not only the stories of the people who settled in the desert nearly a century ago, but also the voices and experiences of those living here today.” 

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Lee joining the Blues this year, we should expect that in the very near future, a female aviator will be the one continuing McGee’s work to change the course of events in our Imperial Valley. And who knows how many young people from all walks of life may be inspired by the accomplishments of McGee and the women aviators who have thrown wide the doors to opportunity. One of them may be in attendance at the air show. Shouldn’t you be as well? Kris Haugh is public affairs officer for Naval Air Facility, El Centro and Ens. Ann Maloney is from the Commander Naval Air Forces public affairs office. 

1802 N Imperial Ave Ste D El Centro CA 92243 (760) 693-5145 store7057@theupsstore.com 1802 N Imperial Ave Ste D El Centro CA 92243 (760) 693-5145 store7057@theupsstore.com

8:00 am to 7:00 pm 8:00 am to 5:00 pm 10:00 am8:00 to 3:00 am to pm 7:00 pm

8:00 am to 5:00 pm 10:00 am to 3:00 pm

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out of it this time," he said when he called with the "invitation” to take this year's Blue Angel media ride. Nixon said he wanted to make sure all of the senior editorial-types at the newspaper had taken their turn in the cockpit. He was emphatic that there would be no excuses this time. It was easy, though, to rationalize reasons to go. My life insurance is current. Colleagues who had made the trip over the past years couldn't speak highly enough of their flightseven if they did start talking with their hands. And taking a ride with a Blue Angel IS a chance of a lifetime. The co-workers weren't too comforting, however, as the minutes ticked away toward the 1:15 p.m. appointment that was to begin the adventure. “You're the only person I've seen who has been green BEFORE he went up," one colleague observed. The trip began with a briefing by the crew chief for Blue Angel No. 7. Dave Donaldson of Cedartown, Ga. He said the pilot, Lt. Mike Gershon, would be taking the aircraft through some of the maneuvers the Flight Demonstration Squadron performs in its air shows.

Then came the words that have been chronicled in virtually every Blue Angel media-ride story that has been written by reporters from this newspaper since the team began coming to the Imperial Valley for its winter training. “Anything yellow and black in the cockpit, don't touch. " Donaldson said. That's the emergency equipment, such as the emergency bomb release and the ejection seat, he noted. Hit one wrong button and the media ride story takes an entirely different angle. There was also an implied warning. "We have never had any trouble on these media flights before," Donaldson said. Translation: don't you be the first. But Donaldson concluded his briefing with some reassurance. "You're going to have a good time, I can tell you.” The next step in the ride was getting into a flight suit, then climbing up a narrow ladder into a cockpit filled with yellow and black levers and buttons. After a bit of squeezing, getting into the seat was no problem. Keeping the flight suit on after being seated was. The zipper broke. Hopefully that wasn't going to be an indication of things to come.

Mike Gershon, who joined the Blue Angels in October (1983), is the team narrator and it is also his job to conduct the media flights. "I bet this is the fastest trip you'll ever make to Brawley," Gershon said over the intercom shortly after takeoff from the Naval Air Facility. We were over Brawley about 21.2 seconds after the wheels left the runway in a rapid climb to 3,500 feet. Soon we were streaking over an area east of Brawley. Then came the flying lessons. Gershon took the TA-4 "Skyhawk" through one slow aileron roll. "Now it's your turn, "'he said. “You've got the aircraft." To prove it. Gershon raised his right hand to signal he did not have hold of the “stick." My first aileron roll was more like a hesitant roll. “'Let's do the next one faster." Gershon said. The pilot took the controls back for the next items on his agenda, the barrel roll, followed by the loop. That one will be easy to remember because of the heavy "G'" forces that were exerted as the jet climbed within seconds from 5,000 feet in altitude to 11,000 feet,

then back down again. Finally, the time came to start the trip home. Gershon pointed toward El Centro, off in the distance, then told me to fly it in that direction. Immediately the aircraft started to wander all over the sky. Maybe that's why Gershon changed his mind. “Ever fly inverted?” he asked. Shortly we were winging our way toward El Centro upside down. In that mode, you look "up" and see the ground. Dust drops from the cockpit deck onto the canopy cover. Your knees dangle in midair and attempt to touch your chin. Gravity works. The finale to the flight was a carriertype approach and “controlled crash” used by Navy pilots when they land aboard an aircraft carrier. The Naval Air Facility runway — like most Navy runways — is equipped with carrier landing equipment that gives pilots an opportunity to hone their skills. "Welcome to naval tactical aviation," Gershon said after we were back on the ground. I had to admit it: I'm glad Dave Nixon

wouldn’t let me say no. But this former snipe can't tell a very good story with his hands. I was a total flop in relating details of the flight that night to my wife. She turned a bit pale as the aileron rolls, loops and barrel rolls were discussed. "You did WHAT?” “I thought all you'd do is get up there and just fly around a little." If you invite me to go again, Dave. I think we are going to have to keep it a secret.

FOOTNOTE: Every time military pilots strap into their aircraft, they put their lives on the line. On July 13, 1985, 16 months after this story ran in the Imperial Valley Press, Blue Angel Lt. Mike Gershon was killed in an airshow accident. "As an aviator, he was the best - a professional's professional, a Blue Angels Blue Angel,¨ said Cmdr. Larry Pearson, then commanding oﬃcer of the Blue Angels, during Gershon's funeral at the Pensacola Naval Air Station. 

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New Year's SET CLEAR, REALISTIC,

ne of the most common ways people usher in a new year is by making resolutions for themselves, and while setting goals can be positive, Imperial County Behavioral Health Services (ICBHS) suggests considering resolutions that focus on being kind to yourself and that

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promote both mental and physical health as opposed to resolutions that may generate anxiety. Resolutions can bring positive change. There’s nothing wrong with resolving to lose weight or exercise more, two very common resolutions, but when those resolutions generate stress, they can become

harmful to one’s mental health. That’s especially true if one starts to feel like they are failing if they do not achieve goals that may have been overly ambitious or aspiring from the start “For that reason, the recommendation is to make gentle, clear, realistic and measurable goals

's Resolutions

C, MEASURABLE GOALS that you will be able to reach without changing your routine completely,” said Imperial County Behavioral Health Therapist Norma Muñoz Sedano. “It is better to make baby steps when starting a goal.” For example, instead of focusing on losing weight, focus on the steps to get there she said, “if you drink two sugary drinks a day, cut it down to one a day. If you want to start exercising, start by walking or with short-duration exercise routines. If you go to sleep at midnight, try going to sleep a little earlier.” Also, try to avoid resolutions that focus too much on changing some perceived imperfections about yourself or that challenge your own self-worth. “Focus day-by-day with little changes,” Sedano said. “If one day it was very diﬃcult to stay on your goal, you can take it as a time oﬀ and start again the next day.” Keep in mind that change is a process that takes time. There will be days where that journey will be harder than others, and if you need help with your mental health, ICBHS is a resource for Imperial Valley

residents of all ages. Below are resolutions you might consider, according to ICBHS:

 Make time for self-care by  coming up with activities that make you feel better and try to schedule them into your daily schedule. Your resolution may be to ﬁnd what self-care means to you;  Be kind to yourself by  recognizing that change takes time and remind yourself that you are doing the best you can;  Take more time to sleep, which  is key to improving one’s physical and mental health;  Try to be more positive,  acknowledging that life can be hard, but as much as possible focus on what is positive in life;  Remind yourself you are not  alone and do not isolate yourself from others as there are always others out there ready to help if you need it;

 Practice being present, which  means living mindfully and centering yourself, focusing on what is happening right now— which is what you can control— rather than allowing your mind to wander to the past or future, which you cannot control. Remember, choose goals that can have long-lasting positive impacts, bring happiness, and promote mental health. “If you feel better internally, your image will reflect it,” Sedano said. “Focus on one change at a time and remember—a long journey begins with the first little step.” If you do find yourself needing mental health support in the new year, reach out to ICBHS, which has clinics throughout the Imperial Valley staffed by mental health professionals ready to provide the proper treatment through therapy, medication support services, when needed, and through referrals to a host of services in the Imperial Valley, all designed to help the whole person on their mental health journey to recovery. 

202 N. Eighth St. • El Centro, CA 92243 For appointment call: (442) 265-1525 • (800) 817-5292 • bhs.imperialcounty.org 2023

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