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Articles by Mike Lipsitz
Landers Community clean-up this Saturday (3/29) for bulky trash items, tires, and more
This Saturday, March 29, the Landers Homestead Valley Association and County Code Enforcement team up for a one-day community cleanup. Residents of the unincorporated areas in and around Landers are encouraged to bring in trash, tires, and e-waste for recycling.
Bighorn-Desert View Water Agency meeting agenda for Tuesday (2/11)
When directors at the Bighorn-Desert View Water Agency meet at 6:00 p.m. Tuesday (February 11, 2025) they’ll consider entering a outside agreement for accounting services. Following a closed session conference with a labor negotiator in connection with the general manager, directors will consider contracting with an outside vendor to assist staff with accounting services.
Fish & Game Commission to take up Joshua Tree Conservation Plan
Threatened by climate change, habitat destruction, and wildfires, the Western Joshua Tree Conservation Act of 2013 aims to curtail the disappearance of the iconic desert tree. As part of the act, the State Fish and Game Commission has until June 30 to take action on a Conservation Plan. The Commission is set to discuss the draft Conservation Plan at its meeting this month.
Rowe's Field Rep fails to win back a seat on the Citizens Advisory Council
At last night’s meeting of the Joshua Basin Water District, an effort to fill some vacant seats on the Citizens Advisory Council dredged up some bitter feelings from a long-standing feud. The water agency that serves Joshua Tree last night interviewed two candidates to fill that many open seats on the Citizens Advisory Council. Candidate one, Crystal Wysong, active with the Copper Mountain Mesa Community Association and the Mil-Tree Community Garden, easily won board approval.
Wednesday Water Round-Up for February 5th
Wednesdays mean water for Yucca Valley and Joshua Tree. On tap for tonight (February 5, 2025) Yucca Valley’s Hi-Desert Water District meets at 4:00 p.m. and in Joshua Tree the Joshua Basin Water District’s meeting begins at 5:30 p.m. Directors at the Hi-Desert Water District will consider a lobbying effort to expedite Phase 2 Sewer Project permitting and engagement with State Agencies. The need is considered immediate given the funding deadlines to complete the project.
January 15th water meeting roundup
Directors at the Hi-Desert Water District will receive 2025 standing committee appointments, review future agenda items, and adjourn to a closed session for real estate negotiations. Today’s meeting takes place at the district office on the highway at Inca Trail. Down the highway in Joshua Tree, the Joshua Basin Water District board will take a last look at rate changes set to go in effect next month.
Bighorn Desert View Water Agency 1/14 meeting agenda
Tonight the board is expected to authorize an agreement for on-call engineering services from an outside vendor, in other actions directors will likely authorize hire of another contractor to conduct a rate and capacity fee study. In other business, the resident with Board consensus, will likely approve committee and meeting assignments for the calendar year. The public is invited to attend in person at the agency’s board meeting office under the old water tower on Cherokee Trail in Landers.
Landers Homestead Valley to discuss drone privacy laws, King of the Hammers discounts
Tonight the association will reveal the 2025 priorities which were determined by the results of a recent poll. Among other items, attendees will learn how locals can get deeply discounted tickets to the upcoming King of the Hammers race, how to pitch in at the next Giant Rock Cleanup, and why the January 23 “Point-In-Time Count” of the unhoused has special significance in Landers. Tonight’s hour-long meeting begins at 5:00 p.m. and takes place at Belfield Hall, 58380 Reche Road in Landers.
Train burglarly suspects caught red-handed by Morongo Basin Sheriff Deputies
A train burglary in Amboy was thwarted with assistance from the Morongo Basin deputies, who made two arrests and recovered $18,000 in property. On Friday morning (January 10) just after midnight San Bernardino County Sheriff’s deputies were contacted by BNSF rail police, who said that a train in the area of Amboy and National Trails Highway was being burglarized by multiple suspects. BNSF police were unable to immediately respond and requested assistance from deputies.
Two arrested in Joshua Tree for suspected child abuse and drug cultivation charges
Two people in Joshua Tree were arrested for investigation into numerous drug charges after a child ingested psychedelic mushrooms. On Tuesday (January 7) at around 6:00 a.m., San Bernardino County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a report of a 14 year-old boy who had ingested psilocybin mushrooms. The boy was taken to a local hospital for treatment.
Mr. and Mrs. Claus visit Boys and Girls Club in Yucca Valley today at 4PM
Mr. and Mrs. Claus are seeking warmer weather and have decided to take a quick trip to our area and are swinging by the Boys and Girls Club of the Hi-Desert today at 4:00 o’clock. The family-friendly event will feature a cozy story time with Mrs. Claus, a toy giveaway for every child, and a printed photo with Santa for you to take home. The Boys and Girls Club of the Hi-Desert is located on the corner of Little League Drive and Palm Avenue.
Hi-Desert Water District meets today (12/11)
At today’s special meeting, directors are expected to authorize an Local Agency Formation Commission application for the annexation of a 9.5 acre parcel in the 7800 block of Shafter Avenue in Yucca Valley. The parcel is adjacent to the district’s existing sphere of influence and is being initiated at the property owner’s request. Also today, the board will likely approve, accept, and direct staff to file the District’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for fiscal2024.
Yucca Valley Planning Commission approves new coffee bar and retail space in Old Town
The Yucca Valley Planning Commission meeting began with a Site Plan Review for a .24-acre property at 7344 Wamego Trail. The Old Town building was originally developed as a single-family residence, currently operates as an office space, and is designated for Old Town Industrial/Commercial use under the Town’s General Plan. The applicant requests to change its use to a retail and collective space with the sale of gifts, baked goods, and a coffee bar.
White Rock Ranch Horse Rescue Fundraiser this Sunday 12/15
White Rock Horse Rescue has been a sanctuary for horses in need, rescuing and rehabilitating them with the help of a dedicated community of volunteers. These beautiful animals thrive, regain health, and have a second life. Meet the horses and the volunteers on December 15 from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. Enjoy a hot cocoa bar and warm, homemade churros, delicious baked goods, and tons of Christmas decorations.
Yucca Valley Planning Commission to consider application for new retail space and coffee bar in Old Town
The Yucca Valley Planning Commission meeting will begin with a Site Plan Review for a property at 7344 Wamego Trail in Old Town. Originally developed as a single-family residence, the property currently operates as an office space designated for Old Town Industrial/Commercial use under the Town’s existing General Plan. The applicant requests to change the use of the 1,723 square foot property to a retail space with sales of gifts, baked goods, and a coffee bar.
Community to set year's priorities tonight in Landers
Tonight folks in Landers will rank a number of community issues in order of importance. The Landers Homestead Valley Association will use the exercise to establish and prioritize the association's aims for 2025. Tonight’s 5 p.m. community meeting takes place at Belfield Hall on Reche Road, three blocks east of Landers Post Office.
Yucca Valley Small Business Association launches "cash mob" to encourage locals to shop small
The Yucca Valley Small Business Association is a new organization unifying new and legacy businesses in the hi-desert town. Recently formed by owners of Tiny Pony and All Roads, the SBA includes more than 30 local businesses, and they’ve launched their first initiative just in time for holiday shopping. Here’s Yucca Valley SBA co-founder and one of the owners of Tiny Pony, Alison Paris, to explain.
Yucca Valley man arrested for investigation into attempted murder, child abuse, and kidnapping
On Tuesday, November 26, at around 3:30 p.m. Gabriel Baker, 22, was contacted by San Bernardino County Sheriff’s deputies in the Stater Bros east plaza on Twentynine Palms Highway in Yucca Valley. Baker was arrested on suspicion of numerous felony charges, including attempted murder, child abuse, domestic violence, false imprisonment, and driving with a suspended license. He was also found to have an active warrant in Orange County for driving under the influence.
Theatre 29 opening of “The Sound of Music” a gala holiday celebration December 6th
It’s time to get all glammed up and enjoy a gala holiday celebration for the opening of the classic Broadway musical, “The Sound of Music” at Theatre 29! The event will feature heavy hors d’oeuvres inspired by the show from Chef Tristan Ross, a champagne toast and a signature cocktail. There will also be a live and silent auction for what will be the biggest fund-raiser of the year. The evening’s dress will be Semi-Formal with a nod to Holiday Finery.
Dale Basin Well Owners to elect new board on Sunday (12/8)
The Dale Basin Well Owners will meet to elect board members for 2025 this weekend. The annual election comes at a time when the Dale Basin Well Owners Association board has several new openings, including President, Vice President and two Directors. Though the roles are mostly amdinsterial, the board members meet an additional two or three times a year, and any experienced well-owner with an internet connection is encouraged to apply.
Wednesday Water Roundup for December 3rd
Directors at the Hi-Desert Water District will vote on board officers for 2025 and later consider entering a general manager employment agreement with interim general manager Tony Culver. Today’s meeting takes place at the district office on the highway at Inca Trail.
Wednesday Water Roundup for 11/20
Directors at the Hi-Desert Water District are expected to authorize hiring an outside firm to calculate a charge for Phase II customers to recover the cost of the Water Reclamation Facility. Today’s meeting takes place at the district office on the highway at Inca Trail. Down the highway in Joshua Tree, the Joshua Basin Water District board will review the 2023/24 audited financial statements, and likely approve some reserve fund transfers.
Operation: Consequences serves 2 gang-related warrants in Morongo Basin
Two arrests were made in the Morongo Basin last week by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Gang/Narcotics Division. Between November 9 and November 15 the Sheriff’s Department served eight search warrants related to gang members and felons believed to be in possession of weapons or narcotics as part of Operation:Consequences.
Desert Institute Coming OUTdoors Hike and Mixer this Friday at Black Rock Nature Center
Desert Institute staff naturalist Jon Norris will share his knowledge of the park and the native plants and animals during the hike. The hike is fairly easy, only 1.3 miles long with an elevation gain of 400feet and a panoramic view at the top.You will need water, food and snacks to be eaten in the field with no trace left behind. Closed-toed athletic shoes or hiking boots are a must, as well as sun protection gear.
Basin Transit seeking community feedback this Tuesday for their Master Transit Plan
Basin Transit invites Morongo Basin residents to provide input on the agency’s Transit Master Plan at a special meeting. The master plan will shape Basin Transit’s bus and transportation services and priorities for the next 5 years. Tomorrow’s meeting will be the final session for community feedback on the plan, so if you are a Basin Transit rider or have opinions about the Morongo Basin’s transit system, you are welcome to provide input.
San Manuel Band of Mission Indians contributes $100k for San Bernardino County School's STEM program
STEM stands for “Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics,” and this grant funding from the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians will support the creation of the “Empowering the Future Workforce: Active Learning with Physical Computing” workshops. The sessions will equip STEM educators with practical, hands-on training in micro:bit and physical computing, with a focus on integrating these tools into STEM disciplines.
San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors expected to approve new Morongo Valley water tank
The board is expected to approve almost a half million dollars for replacement of a Morongo Valley water tank operated by county special districts. The tank is in poor condition and according to county engineers, at risk of failure. It is the only potable source of water for the 88 households it serves. Also tomorrow, supervisors are poised to approve an additional $33,000 due to unforeseen conditions during renovations at the Wonder Valley Community Center bringing the total cost to $367,000.
Twentynine Palms Cemetery trustees meet tomorrow (11/19)
The Twentynine Palms Cemetery District Board of Trustees meets in regular session tomorrow afternoon (November 19), and their agenda includes a presentation about their final fiscal audit. After the presentation, the board will vote to accept the audit. Also on the agenda is a report on the Cemetery District’s financial overview and cemetery staff operations.
"The Landing" hotel and restuarant presenting project to Landers residents tonight at 6PM
The Landers Community Association is holding a public meeting tonight where the developers of a new hotel and restaurant will be presenting their project to residents. The proposed hotel project called “The Landing” is located at a 5.7 acre site east of Belfield Blvd and north of Reche Road. The proposal includes a 35 unit hotel with a restaurant, food market, lodge, health club with additional infrastructure and covered parking lot.
Yucca Valley man arrested for suspected assault, vandalism and making threats during Saturday morning rampage
Witnesses told Z107.7 that Brian Hall, 42, began threatening neighbors late Friday night (11/15) in the Western Hills neighborhood of Yucca Valley. They said he carried a hammer and went from house to house in the area of Redondo St, and that he attempted to break into homes and made threats to residents. At around 9:45 a.m on Saturday (November 16), the Sheriff’s department received additional reports that Hall was walking on Redondo St. while carrying a hammer.
Bighorn Desert View Water Agency meets today at 6PM
The “how much” is quite small at just north of $1,300 representing the total true bad debt accumulated between July 2023 and this past June. It is the amount that couldn’t be recovered through property liens nor any of the tools used by the agency.The public may attend tonight’s meeting in person at the agency’s board meeting office under the old water tower on Cherokee Trail in Landers.
Twentynine Palms man arrested for investigation into battery
A man on post-release community supervision was arrested in Twentynine Palms for investigation into battery leading to serious injury and preventing a witness from reporting the incident. On Sunday afternoon at approximately 1:15 pm, as part of an investigation into a violent attack that left a victim with serious injuries, San Bernardino County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a residence in the 6000 block of Palo Verde Ave in Twentynine Palms.
Twentynine Palms Book Festival returns for 2nd year with events all weekend
The Twentynine Palms Book Festival is an ambitious local event that lasts two days and spans many venues. It will feature book readings, book signings, literary talks, and culinary treats. The Festival is supported by the City of Twentynine Palms, the Visit 29 Palms Sponsorship, and the Event Grant Program. Begin your tour of the Festival at the Twentynine Palms Community Center and travel around the city to Live Talks and Readings at different locations.
Harrison House holding fundraising brunch on Sunday (11/10)
The Joshua Tree Foundation for Arts and Ecology is holding a Farm to Table Fundraising Brunch at Harrison House this Sunday (November 10). Here’s your opportunity to enjoy a dining experience from its organic beginnings to a culinary extravaganza on your plate. The fundraiser will benefit Harrison House which is committed to environmental stewardship and sustainable resource management offering low cost, high quality arts, music, culture and ecology events.
Wednesday Water Round-Up for November 6th, 2024
Among other items, Directors at the Hi-Desert Water District are expected to authorize the General Manager to accept a $54,000 low bid for purchase of pipeline materials, after which the board will hold a public hearing to take comments on the implementation of certain energy related improvements to District facilities by an outside contractor. Today’s meeting takes place at the district office on the highway at Inca Trail.
Yucca Valley Town Council: sports projects, compost, and development code changes
The Yucca Valley Town Council meeting kicked off with two public hearings regarding changes to the Development Code. The first item was to amend the Land Use Compliance Review requirements to include Irrigation and Landscape Review. This provision is only for small expansions to commercial properties; projects with over 500 square feet of new landscape area or over 2,500 square feet of rehabilitated landscape area will be subject to the State’s Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance.
Felon arrested on suspected weapon possession in Twentynine Palms
A convicted felon was found by deputies with suspected weapons in Twentynine Palms. On Tuesday (October 15) at around 12:30 p.m., San Bernardino County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a home in the 6100 block of Encelia Ave in Twentynine Palms where they contacted Adam Weaver, 46, a felon currently on post-release supervision. Weaver has been arrested several times on weapons charges in the hi-desert and served time on felonies related to being a felon in possession of weapons.
Theatre 29 puts on The Legend of Sleepy Hollow just in time for Halloween
I had the pleasure of attending the opening night of Theatre 29’s production of “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,” directed by Eric Ross. Adapted for the stage by Hans and Peter Bloedel, the play is based on the classic gothic story by Washington Irving. Set in the late 18th Century, it tells the story of Ichabod Crane, the new schoolteacher of Sleepy Hollow who soon falls for the pranks, local beauty, and dark ghost tales that accompany his new home.
88th Pioneer Days Schedule of Events
The 88th annual Pioneer Days is Thursday through Sunday! Here’s a schedule of events: 6:00 – 8:00PM: The Mara Mixer from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the 29 Palms Inn. Meet this year’s grand marshals and mingle with delicious hors d’oeuvres, delightful desserts, and of course – a cash bar and a photo booth. Tickets are $30 each at the door.
Pioneer Days: Meet your local first responders at the Firefighter's Pancake Breakfast this Saturday
The City of Twentynine Palms kicks off the 88th Annual Pioneer Days this weekend. The celebration kicks off this week on Thursday with the Pioneer Days Kick-Off Mixer at 29 Palms Inn, and continues through Sunday with a variety of events. One important function is this Saturday’s (10/19) Firefighter’s Pancake Breakfast, put on by firefighter’s from San Bernardino County Fire. Held at the Twentynine Palms fire station, here’s County Battalion Fire Chief Jeff Allen with more.
Twentynine Palms City Special Events coordinator Scott Clinkscales on "Up Close Show" this Friday (10/18)
For the past 87 years, the Twentynine Palms community has celebrated their rich ranching, mining, and Native American history. This weekend, the 88th annual Pioneer Days will feature a parade, pancake dinner, numerous events and the all-day “Frontier Fest” at the downtown Freedom Plaza. On Friday’s Up Close Show with Gary Daigneault, he will talk with city special events Coordinator Scott Clinkscales about the history and the events.
Former Morongo Valley Fire Chief James Brakebill honored with Official Resolution from the Senate at last night’s MVCSD meeting
After agency reports, the Board oversaw the presentation of Official Resolution by the California Senate, honoring former Morongo Valley Fire Chief James Brakebill for his 9-years duty at the district and his career in fire service spanning 46 years.
"Great ShakeOut" emergency drills taking place today
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, Morongo Unified School District and Z107.7 are participating in the Great ShakeOut today. The Great ShakeOut is a day of individual and community events featuring the largest earthquake drill ever, organized to inspire others to get ready for big earthquakes, and to prevent disasters from becoming catastrophes.
Grant funds open the door for next phase of Yucca Valley sewer project
The recently committed funds are in addition to the almost $145 million already raised to complete the earlier Wastewater Treatment and Water Reclamation Facility and related infrastructure. In total, the water board has provided $248 million in funding, evidence of California’s commitment to protecting water resources and instilling resiliency in the system’s infrastructure.
Yucca Valley may be getting a new fueling station on Highway 247
At last week’s meeting, the Yucca Valley Planning Commission discussed a potential new project initiated by Circle K. The Town received a pre-application for the potential construction of a second Circle K site on Highway 247, designed to fuel semi-trucks and other large vehicles. Its proposed site is on the adjacent property slightly southwest of the existing Circle K gas station.
Mojave Artists of Color Collective present “Being Seen” Saturday, October 19
Mojave Artists of Color Collective present ‘Being Seen’ – an evening of spoken word, music, and live performance. Saturday, October 19 at Art-Trap in Joshua Tree. Doors open at 6:00pm, performances begin at 6:30pm. This event is free and open to the public. Refreshments provided. Donations to the Abraham family will be accepted. Performers include: Douglas Blanc, Miri Hunter, Rachel Sklar, Maya Jensen, and Terence Latimer. Art-Trap is at 61961 Sunburst Cir. in Joshua Tree.
Twentynine Palms TBID meets Thursday (10/17)
The conversation about entertainment permits continues at tomorrow’s meeting of the Twentynine Palms Tourism Business Improvement District, known as the TBID. The TBID Board will host a discussion on the topic of entertainment and event permits with Keith Gardner, the City’s Director of Community Development. The topic of requiring entertainment permits for Twentynine Palms has been discussed at City Council and Planning Commission meetings over the last month.
Wednesday Water Roundup for 10/16
Following priority project updates, directors at the Hi-Desert Water District will consider a contract with Sukut Construction and West Coast Civil to complete the final design and construction of the new Phase II Sewer Collection System. And in other business staff is recommending the board approve an agreement to rehabilitate Well 20. Today’s meeting takes place at the district office on the highway at Inca Trail.
Tarantulas are the march for mates in the Mojave
It doesn’t feel like it, but Fall is here and cooler weather will eventually drop on the basin. In other places in California, that also means colorful changes to the trees and sweater weather. That sounds nice for those other places, but I think the desert has a great fall tradition: marching tarantulas. It’s their mating season and the males are out and about looking for their life partner. The season typically starts around mid-September and goes through October.
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