Zach Mejia, left, and Kim Morales, right, were crowned Homecoming King and Queen, respectively, during the halftime show at Lucerne Valley High School football stadium last Friday night. Following the game, many Mustang students attending the Homecoming Dance. Peter Day / The Leader
By Peter Day
Senior Reporter
LUCERNE VALLEY — The San Bernardino County Elections Office has made it official: Lucerne Valley Unified School District school board trustee Dawn Turnbull will face a recall election.
"The public has spoke and it's time to move forward with the special election," said Keri Gasper, spokesperson for the recall committee.
In its decision, the Registrar of Voters office certified that recall petitioners had submitted the required amount of valid signatures. The school district has 14 days to formally order a recall election. If the district's governing board fails to order the election, the county elections official will order one. The election must be held no less than 88 days and no later than 125 days after the issuance of the order, according to California Election Codes 11240-11242.
LVUSD Superintendent Davis said the governing board is expected to look at several dates to hold the special election, but sometime in January — after the winter break — may turn out to be the best time. The governing board was expected to meet this week to discuss its options on the matter.
According to the Registrar of Voters' notice to Turnbull, "The (recall proponents') grounds for the recall are as follows: In the past few Board meetings you have behaved very unprofessional by disrupting meetings, speaks against fellow board members, threatens bodily harm to others, cause confusion. Talks down to staff and you disrespect volunteers. You have accused fellow board members of violating the Brown Act and made false sexual harassment against another board member."
The following is Turnbull's response, which was submitted to the Registrar's office and later emailed to the Leader:
"The LVUSD Board had a custom of closed session meetings using the ruse of a Superintendents evaluation where anything was discussed with no agenda. I questioned this back door for breaking the Brown Act; Tom Courtney winked at me and said now I was getting it. That practice is no longer being used.
"I do ask for written back up to verbal answers when the material I am looking at conflicts with the verbal answer, this apparently is disruptive and bothers these that do not understand the question. I am denied access to needed information to approve many items. Nepotism and cronyism is a problem.
"Tom Courtney admits to 'patting' my rear end...but denies he said 'them are the kinds of sports I like'. I was threatened not to say anything publicly as it has nothing to do with Board business; it was personal like stolen lunch money and kids being turned away for lunch.
"Non Board approved volunteers are left alone with students; parents are treated irrelevant. Annual Attorney fees exceed $100,000.00.
"A recall election would cost LVUSD approximately $30,000.00; proof again money is being used for personal gain instead of the best interest of our kids."
Turnbull has not attended regular meetings of the LVUSD governing board for more than three months.
By Peter Day
Senior Reporter
LUCERNE VALLEY – A fast-paced video promoting the merits of Lucerne Valley Unified School District will soon be coming to an Apple Valley movie theater.
Last Monday, the LVUSD’s board of trustees gave the green light to purchase a $6,170, eight-week, advertising block at the Digiplex movie theater on Bear Valley Road near Central. The advertising contract runs from Nov. 20 through Jan. 14, 2016.
District officials hope the upbeat videos of Lucerne Valley schools and students will help to cast the district in a positive light and possibly induce students and families to select the district.
“At that price it seems like a low-risk investment,” board president Jim Harvey said, adding that each student brings in about $7,000 in annual funding. “All we have to do is bring in one new student.”
In February, the board of trustees hired a Los Angeles-based film production team to produce a series of short videos. Producers T. Smith III and Hugo Pallete shot footage of students at the district elementary and high school/middle school campuses. The videos, which are accompanied by music, will be used to promote the district online and in theaters.
The first video will appear before the start of the new “Hunger Games” movie, which is scheduled to be released in late November, and “Star Wars,” which is scheduled for a mid-December release.
“We are so excited about the end product,” said district superintendent Suzette Davis. “They (the production team) have really done such a nice job. They’ve worked so hard.”
And, Davis added, “Students are going to be able to see themselves on the big screen!”
Lucerne Valley Station Sheriff's deputies arrested two Lucerne Valley women after an internet cafe robbery led to the discovery of meat and money stolen from a nearby eatery.
On Thursday, Sept. 10, deputies from the Victor Valley Sheriff’s Station investigated the report of a robbery at an internet cafe located at 32818 Old Woman Springs Road in Lucerne Valley, according to the San Bernardino County Sheriff's press release.
The victim, who is an employee at the internet cafe business, said the suspects, later identified as Teresa Case, 50, and Francine Chavez, 51, came to the location at about 12:25 p.m. The two women proceeded to physically assault the victim, she said.
The suspects then left the location with an undisclosed amount of money and the victim’s cell phone, and the suspects were seen fleeing the location in a red Pontiac Trans Am, according to the report.
Deputies from the Lucerne Valley Sheriff’s Station located the suspect vehicle at a residence in the 12500 block of Midway, and Case and Chavez were arrested without incident on suspicion of commiting the robbery.
While assisting with the investigation, detectives located stolen items from a burglary that occurred the night before at Chaby’s Cocina Restaurant, which is located next to the internet cafe. The detectives believe the suspects entered the restaurant and stole large amounts of meat and money. As a result of the investigation, a stolen vehicle that was stolen from a residence in the 9000 block of Black Hawk trail in Lucerne on July 30 also was recovered.
Case and Chavez were booked at the Victor Valley Jail. They are being held on $100,000 bail each.
An investigation is in progress regarding this case. Detectives are requesting the assistance of the public.Anyone with information is asked to call Detective William Badger 760-552-6800 or Detective William Doemner 760-248-7655.Callers wishing to remain anonymous may contact the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME or leave information on the We-Tip website at www.wetip.com.
By Holly Sosa
In honor of October and one of my favorite horror series, The Walking Dead, I created some fun Zombie Eyeball Pretzel snacks that embrace the living dead. With Halloween around the corner, even if you’re not a Walking Dead fan, you’ll appreciate these spooky treats that are less about gore and more about fun for the family.
To start, you’ll line up butter snap pretzels on a baking sheet.
Place a green candy melt over each pretzel.
Bake them in a 250F degree oven for just a few minutes to get them soft. Next you’ll quickly press a candy coated chocolate into each white candy melt.
And for the official zombie effect, sprinkle some red food coloring over the finished eyeballs. To do this, I simply coated a paintbrush with red food coloring and splattered it over the pretzels.
For pupils, you can use some black icing or dark food coloring, which is what I did. I simply dotted on pupils with a toothpick.
Allow the eyeballs to cool and harden for an hour before enjoying.
Lucerne Valley CERT members Kevin Baroni, left, and Bryan Meder, right, have been standing in front of the Lucerne Valley Market and Hardware Store. The CERT will conduct a class beginning on Oct. 7.
Staff Report
Members of the Lucerne Valley Community Emergency Response Team was out in front of the Lucerne Valley Market & Hardware store getting signups for the upcoming CERT class.
With the motto, "Hoping for the best while preparing for the worst," the local CERT helps volunteers to become prepared to help in disaster situations such as wild fires, earthquakes, flash floods, evacuation issues, moving injured victims, assisting with search and rescue, scene security and animal rescues.
If a local disaster occurs, CERT volunteers can provide immediate assistance to victims, give critical support to first responders and help organize spontaneous volunteers at a disaster site.
The 20-hour CERT Basic Training includes disaster preparedness, fire safety, disaster medical operations, light search and rescue, disaster psychology, terrorism and CERT and disaster simulation.
The class schedule:
Day 1 — Wednesday, Oct. 7, 6-9 p.m.
Day 2 — Thursday, Oct. 8, 6-9 p.m.
(Days 2-6 - Midway Park's classroom)
Day 3 — Saturday, Oct. 10, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Day 4 — Tuesday, Oct. 13, 6-9 p.m.
Day 5 — Thursday, Oct. 15, 6-9 p.m.
Day 6 — Saturday, Oct. 17, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
A refundable $5 fee will be required Day 1 and refunded after receiving your County Fire, CERT Volunteer ID Card.
For more details, contact Bryan Meder at 760-248-2915 or Kevin Baroni at 760-267-0104.
Staff Report
The Mustangs varsity football team fell to Desert Christian Academy by a score of 56-22 last Friday night at home.
For Lucerne Valley, #15 Jesus de la Torre was named the offensive player of the game, #70 Alfonso Sanchez was named the defensive player and #1 Zackary Mejia was the special team player of the game.
The Mustangs racked up a total of 180 yards rushing over three carriers. Mejia had 18 carries with 66 yards total. De La Torre had the longest run, a 24 yarder.
#19 Rex Modica had the longest catch, a 34 yarder for a touchdown. Kendrick York threw for 59 yards. Mejia had 193 total yards including 127 for kickoff returns.
Sanchez had 9 total tackles and a sack.
Kicker Oscar Sanchez had a long kickoff of 50 yards and a punth for 38 yards.
The Mustangs now sport a 2-3 record. They take the field next when they host Ribet Academy for a non-league game on Friday, Oct. 2. Lucerne Valley will battle a Fighting Frogs team coming off a 26-12 non-league loss to Bright Star (Los Angeles). The Fighting Frogs record now stands at 2-1.
VOLLEYBALL WINS
The Lucerne Valley girls volleyball team beat Trona last Thursday by a score of 3 games to 0. The recent win has moved the Lady Mustangs up the rankings list.
The Mustangs, coached by Patricia Courtney, are 6-2 overall.
On Thursday Lucerne Valley meets Victor Valley Christian in Victorville. The Royals are currently 0-2.
Tuesday, Sept. 22
9:02 p.m. A Megan's Law followup was performed at a residence in the 30000 block of Foothill Road.
8:32 p.m. A Megan's Law followup was performed in the 10000 block of Medanos Avenue.
8:07 p.m. A Megan's Law followup was performed in the 30000 block of Zircon Road.
7:44 p.m. A Megan's Law followup was performed in the 30000 block of Old Woman Springs Road.
7:29 p.m. A petty theft was reported by a Verdugo Road resident.
11:33 a.m. Illegal shots heard in the vicinity of Highway 18 and Fairlane Road.
Monday, Sept. 21
4:59 p.m. Criminal threats were reported by a Palomar Avenue resident.
3:40 p.m. A Sunset Road resident reported a disturbance.
Sunday, Sept. 20
2:03 p.m. Trespassing was reported by a Gobar Road resident. The subject was gone upon arrival of law enforcement.
Saturday, Sept. 19
1:17 p.m. An disturbance related arrest was made in the 10000 block of Locust Avenue.
11:43 a.m. A Megan's Law followup was performed in the 30000 block of Powerline Road.
Friday, Sept. 18
7:08 p.m. Illegal dumping was reported in the area of Clark Road and Custer Avenue.
6:07 p.m. A disturbance was reported in the 10000 block of Haven Rest Road.
2:07 p.m. An assault was reported in the 33100 block of Old Woman Springs Road. The subject was gone upon arrival of law enforcement.
8:59 a.m. A petty theft was reported by a Blake Road resident.
Thursday, Sept. 17
7:03 p.m. A vehicle related disturbance was reported in the area of High Road and Desert View Road.
12:26 p.m. An arrest was made in the 32800 block of Old Woman Springs Road.
Wednesday, Sept. 16
1:21 p.m. A burglary was reported in the 40000 block of East End Road.
12:50 p.m. A burglary was reported in the 40000 block of East End Road.
10:25 a.m. A grand theft was reported by a Verdugo Road resident.
To update your listing, email editor@lucernevalleyleader.com, call 760-248-7878 or mail Lucerne Valley Leader, P.O. Box 299, Lucerne Valley, CA 92356.
Age Wise
This is a confidential counseling service for adults 55 and older, operated by San Bernardino County. Appointments are set up at homes and community buildings in Lucerne Valley. Call 800-451-5633.
Alcoholics Anonymous Lucerne Valley
The groups meet daily at 32774 Old Woman Springs Road in Lucerne Valley Shopping Center. Call 760-242-9292 for details. Following is a meeting schedule:
Sunday 5:30 - 6:30 p.m., 12 x 12 Study.
Monday 6-7:15 p.m., Family Al-Anon and 7:30 - 9 p.m., Spanish speaking.
Tuesday 7:30 - 9 p.m., Podium Meeting.
Wednesday Noon-1 p.m. Participation Meeting, and 7:30-9 p.m., Guest Speaker/Birthday Chip Meeting.
Thursday 5:30-6:30 p.m. Spiritual Maintenance Discussion Meeting.
Friday 5:30 - 6:30 p.m., Open Participation, and 7-9 p.m. Spanish speaking.
Saturday 7:30-9 p.m. Big Book Study.
American Legion
Meetings are held at noon on the third Saturday of the month at the V.F.W. located at 31861 Highway 18. For more information, call 951-609-5507.
Hamburgers and cheeseburgers will be served every other Saturday.
American Legion Women’s Auxiliary unit No. 879 meets on the first Saturday of each month at noon at Jack-o-Landia, located at 32351 Highway 18.
Celebrate Recovery
Hunter Harbor, a community resource center, presents Celebrate Recovery every Tuesday from 6 to 8 p.m. and every Friday at 6 p.m.
This Christian-based step study program provides support for those dealing with life’s troubles, including divorce, abuse, co-dependency, domestic violence, anger/emotional issues and addiction.
The group meets at the U-Turn building on the grounds of the Crossroads Chapel, located at 32525 Highway 18 in Lucerne Valley. Call 760-220-3287 for details.
Lucerne Valley Chamber of Commerce
Board of Directors meet at 5:30 p.m. on the second Monday of each month at the Senior Center.
Mailing address: Lucerne Valley Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 491
Physical address: 32750 Highway 18/Old Woman Springs Road
Phone: 760-248-7215
Fax: 760-248-2096
The Chamber’s new websites are http://lvchamber.net/ and http://lucernevalley.us/
Email: Crossrd@lvchamber.net and lvchamber@lucernevalley.us
For more information, call Lucerne Valley Chamber of Commerce office at 760-248-7215.
Community Hospice (of Victor Valley)
Anyone interested in volunteering should call 760-946-4730.
Desert Crossroads Garden Club
Meets at 9:30 a.m. on the second Thursday of the month at the Lucerne Valley Community Center. For more information call Sara at 760-248-7614.
High Desert Antique Power Association
This club for enthusiasts of antique tractors and vehicles meets at 7 p.m. on the fourth Wednesday each month in Hesperia.
For more information, call Larry at 760-249-4259.
His Closet FREE Ministries
FREE! FREE! FREE!
His Closet offers clothes, housewares, furnishings, books, hygiene products and more.
When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays only (weather permitting).
Where: 34551 Highway 18, Lucerne Valley, 760-248-7070.
As people give to us, we give to you! Donations always welcome. Limited pick-up available for large items. We also appreciate volunteers to help process the donated items. Thank you!
His Pantry
His Pantry is a free food distribution to Lucerne Valley.
When: Last Friday of each month. 10 a.m to as long as food lasts, until 1 p.m.
Lucerne Valley residents only, please bring proof of address, and two boxes. As people give to us, we give to you! Donations always welcome. Thank you!
Hunter Harbor, a Community Resource Center
Workshops offered: Parenting Classes, Parent Project Program, and Anger Management for all ages. Call 760-220-3287 for details.
Janice Horst Lucerne Valley Branch Library
The Janice Horst Lucerne Valley Branch Library is located at 33103 Old Woman Springs Road in Lucerne Valley and can be reached by phone at 760-248-7521.
Hours are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday, Friday closed, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Sunday closed.
Children’s Story Time is at 3 p.m. Wednesdays; Friends of the Library meetings are held at 10 a.m. on the second Tuesday of each month.
Events held at the library are free of charge unless otherwise noted.
Jubilee Mutual Water
Board of Directors meetings for the Jubilee Mutual Water Co. are held at 9 a.m. on the third Saturday of every month in the Jubilee Water Company office at 8828 Joshua Avenue in Lucerne Valley, CA 92356. For more information, please call 760-248-7883. Email: jubileewaterco@gmail.com.
The Love and Compassion Ministries
The food giveaway program is from 3 to 4:30 p.m. every second and fourth Tuesday of the month and is distributed from Midway Park located at 34824 Rabbit Springs Road. Call Beverly Bethune at 562-688-3436.
Lucerne Valley Bus
Provides transportation from 5:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. weekdays, and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays. $2.25 per ride. Call 760-948-4021 for more information.
LVDRC – CERT meetings
Meetings of the Lucerne Valley Disaster Readiness Council (LVDRC) and the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) are held the third Monday each month at 7 p.m. in the Community Center. A potluck dinner begins at 6 p.m., followed by a disaster response training session at 6:30 p.m. For more information call Bryan 760-248-2915 or Ron 760-248-2466. The e-mail address is: LVDRC@yahoo.com.
Lucerne Valley Domestic Violence Outreach, Inc.
Call 760-248-2064 if help is needed. For assistance with temporary restraining orders, marriage, family and anger management, counseling is available by appointment. A batterer’s intervention program is also available.
Lucerne Valley Economic Development Association
LVEDA holds meetings at 5 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month at the Lucerne Valley Senior Center, 10431 Allen Way, off Highway 247 in Lucerne Valley, behind the library. Meetings are open to the public. For more information, call Jean Magee at 760-953-1513.
Pacific Clinics Club House food give-away
The Pacific Clinics Club House (also known as A Place to Go) holds a food give-away on the first Thursday of every month. The food give-away is sponsored by the Community Action Partnership of San Bernardino Food Bank Program and USDA Surplus Commodities.
Lucerne Valley Elementary School Booster Club
Local residents have created a nonprofit organization to help bring money back into the elementary school for teachers and students. They plan to take care of all the fundraisers such as Box Tops for Education, Campbell’s soup labels and many more fun projects. They plan to raise money to help with field trips, school supplies and other classroom needs. eetings will be held at 3:30 p.m. on the first Monday of every month at the cafeteria at Lucerne Valley Elementary School. Anyone can be a booster member for an annual cost of $5. To be on the board you must have a child enrolled at LVES. Contact Keri Lindner with any questions at 760-248-2322.
Lucerne Valley Lions Club
The Lions club holds dinner meetings at 7 p.m. on the first and third Thursday of each month at Lions Pride Park. Follow signs from Rabbit Springs Road and Highway 18. Call 760-248-7670.
Lucerne Valley Lions Pistol, Rifle and Trap Range
Open to Public. Rifle, pistol range open at 8 a.m. every Saturday, $8 per shooter, all day. Trap range open at 8 a.m. Saturdays, $5 per round (a round is 25 clays). Trap range open at 5 p.m. Tuesday under the big lights, $5 per round. Follow signs from Rabbit Springs Road and Highway 18. Call 760-248-7670.
Lucerne Valley Museum
The Lucerne Valley Museum will be open the last Saturday of each month from April through October. Hours will be 10 a.m. to noon. Any donations can be made at that time as well.
Lucerne Valley Senior Citizens
Meetings are at 12:45 p.m. on the second Wednesday of the month at the Lucerne Valley Senior Center. Center is open from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. on weekdays. Lunch is served at 11:30 a.m. for senior citizens and guests, Monday through Friday. Call 760-248-2248.
Lucerne Valley TOPS
Lucerne Valley TOPS No. 1066 meets every Monday at the Lucerne Valley Community Church located at 10375 Ladera (behind the fire station). Weigh-in 8:15 to 9 a.m., meeting 9 to 10:15 a.m.. For more information, call Esther at 760-248-9320 or Sharon at 760-646-3690.
Lucerne Valley Unified School District
Meetings are held at 5:30 p.m. on the second Wednesday of each month at the district offices on Aliento Road just south of Highway 18. Call 760-248-6108 for details.
Lucerne Valley/Johnson Valley Municipal Advisory Council
Meetings are held at 5 p.m. on the third Thursday of the month at the Lucerne Valley Community Center. The public is encouraged to attend. Agendas are typically posted in the What’s Happening section of The Leader the week before each meeting. For further information, call 760-248-7048.
Moose Lodge
The Moose Lodge is open from 11 a.m. to closing every day. Meetings are held on the first and third Wednesdays of the month at 7 p.m. in the newly renovated Moose Lodge. Guests welcome to call for information. Monday night burgers, Wednesdays is taco night. Friday and Saturday dinners call first. Contact the Moose Lodge at 760-248-6164 for more information.
Outriders Equestrian Club
Meetings are at 11 a.m. on the first Sunday of the month at the Moose Lodge. Persons interested in joining are welcome to attend. For more information, call Marie Scafidi 760-220-2834 or Mary Daugherty at 760-333-5483.
Pet Overpopulation Coalition
Residents of San Bernardino County are eligible for help, to spay and neuter pets. Receive $50 per dog and $25 per cat. Limit of three vouchers at one time per family. Call P.O.P.C.O. at 888-767-2550 or 760-248-7848.
Lucerne Valley Roadrunners
This women’s charitable organization meets on the first Monday of the month at 10 a.m. at the Lucerne Valley Senior Center. No lunches will be served. The group is involved in many charitable events for children throughout the year. Call 760-248-7215 or 760-248-6176 for additional details.
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5551
The Lucerne Valley VFW is looking for new members. Members enjoy savings on cell phone service, education, hotel and car rentals, real estate and mortgage services, healthcare services, commercial merchandise and more. DD214 required. Contact the post between 8 a.m. and noon by phone at 760-248-7484, by email at VFWPost5551@yahoo.com or by mail at P.O. Box 2012, Lucerne Valley, CA 92356. You can also stop by the physical location at 31861 Highway 18. Meetings are held on the third Saturday of each month starting at 10 a.m. Hamburgers and cheeseburgers will be served every other Saturday starting Jan. 17.
Windsong Marriage, Family and Personal Therapy Inc.
Erin D'Orio LMFT offers a wide variety of psychotherapy and healing assistance including hypnotherapy for anxiety, depression, addiction, PTSD and various relationship and life problems. Therapy sessions are by appointment only. Please call 760-885-0231.
Obernolte to speak at LVEDA meeting
The Tuesday, Oct. 6 meeting of the Lucerne Valley Economic Development will begin at 3 p.m. to have time and daylight for a tour of the Mitsubishi plant, which will take place later during the meeting.
The featured speaker at 3 p.m. at the Senior Center is State Assemblyman Jay Obernolte who will discuss the following topics:
State policies/guidelines re: water hauling that seem to unduly influence the County’s position; the current status of the Cal Fire tax and litigation; new prepaid wireless services surcharge; any new taxes pending; gun bills; the status of the State’s Groundwater Management Plan and more. Public comments are invited.
At 4 or 4:30 p.m., meeting attendees are invited to carpool to the tour of the Mitsubishi Cement Plant conducted by David Rib.
Lucerne Valley Electronic Waste Clean Up
A Lucerne Valley Electronic Waste Clean Up will be held on Friday, Oct. 9 and Saturday, Oct. 10 from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. in the north parking area of the Lucerne Valley Market & Hardware store.
All electronic and electrical items accepted including the following: Projection TVs, Laptops, PDAs, cell phones, computers, scanners, fax machines, paper shredders, toner and ink cartridges, portable heaters, alkaline batteries, ups Units, VCRs, DVD/CD/Tape players etc.
The events is ponsored by the Lucerne Valley Chamber of Commerce, the Lucerne Valley Market and Cal Micro. This is a fundraiser for the Chamber. Any questions call Freda 760-247-2207.
Honorary Mayor Candidates
The Lucerne Valley Chamber of Commerce is looking for candidates to participate in our 2016 Honorary Mayor Race. Call our office at (760) 248-7215 to add your name to our list. We are excited about the 2015 year and expect it to be a great one.
Chamber Looking to Appoint New Officers
The Lucerne Valley Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors is preparing to appoint new officers for the New Year. If you are interested in being on the board please fill out a membership application at our office and attend at least two of the remaining three meetings this year. Our next meeting is October 12. It will be held at the Senior Center here in Lucerne Valley at 5:30 p.m. The Chamber of Commerce is here to help you, but we need your help too.
Horror Book Fest on Oct. 3
The second annual Horror Book Fest will be held at The Courtyard Marriott, 9619 Mariposa Road in Hesperia, on Saturday, Oct. 3 from 2 - 5 p.m.
The event features Miss Julie Adams, the female lead in the original "Creature from the Black Lagoon." Adams has had a storied career, having acted in films with such stars as Rock Hudson, Elvis Presley, Jimmy Stewart, Tyrone Power, and countless more. Her memoir, "The Lucky Southern Star―Reflections from The Black Lagoon," will be on sale.
Horror writer E. Van Lowe― a.k.a. Sal Conte, best-selling author of "Child’s Play,""The Power," and "Because We Told Her To"― will also be on board. Sal will give his take on why he has embraced this frightening genre and read from some of his books.
The Horror Book Fest is brought to you by Nevermore Enterprises, a partnership of two local authors, Michael Raff and Roberta L. Smith. Two short films based on their works will debut.
The Master of Ceremonies will be Hesperia's Mayor Eric Schmidt. The program begins at 2 p.m. and admission is $8 at the door.
This event is sponsored in part by the High Desert Branch of the California Writers Club.
For more information visit www.horrorbookfest.comor email Roberta Smith at cwrlsmith@verizon.net or Michael Raff at mprseven@aol.com.
Johnson Valley Oktoberfest on Oct. 3
The Johnson Valley Oktoberfest celebration will be held on Saturday, Oct. 3. A German Buffet Dinner will be served from 7 to 8 p.m.
Tickets now are $7 per person; admission at the door the day of the party will be $10 per person.
Maybe you do not consider yourself a craft beer aficionado, but come to the patio Beer Garden at 4:30 p.m. and sample home-brewed Johnson Valley beers and hard ciders in intriguing flavors, see which is your favorite. Stay after dark for the special limited quantity After Dark Ale. Domestic beer plus non-alcoholic apple cider and sodas, and bottled water will also be available.
Oktoberfest souvenir tank tops and T-shirts will be on sale for $20 each.
To reserve your tickets, call Betty Munson at 760-364-2646. Details on www.johnsonvalley.com.
Veteran's Day Show of Support
The annual Veteran's Day Show of Support will take place from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 11 at the Dale Evans Parkway Apple Valley Overpass. Bring your flags and show some support. Supervised kids OK. The event is organized by Pam Romero Hardwick.
Veteran's Day/Teen's Christmas Fundraiser
The Veteran's Day/Teen's Christmas Fundraiser will take place on Nov. 8 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Lucerne Valley VFW Post 5551. Help fill 100 backpacks for teens from Johnson Valley to Apple Valley. For more information, call Pam Romero Hardwick at 760-684-3382.
Start Smart Program on Nov. 19
On Saturday, Nov. 19, at 4:30 p.m., the California Highway Patrol (CHP) will be presenting a Start Smart class at the Calvary Chapel Running Springs. The Calvary Chapel is located at 31575, Highway 18, Running Springs.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), over 68,000 teens have died in car crashes in the last decade. The Start Smart program is a cooperative effort between the CHP, teenagers, and their parents/guardians. The goal of the class is to help young drivers and their parents understand the responsibilities associated with driving a motor vehicle. The class will also show how poor choices behind the wheel can change the lives of everyone involved. The purpose of this program is to reduce the number of teen-related injuries and deaths due to collisions.
There is no cost for attending the class. Parents and new drivers interested in attending the class need to RSVP with CHP Officer Quintero or Officer Rodman, by Sept. 18 at 909-867-2791. Space is limited to the first 25 students and parents, additional classes will be scheduled as needed.
Inland Counties Legal Services to visit Lucerne Valley
Inland Counties Legal Services will visit Lucerne Valley Outreach Center on Nov. 24. Check-in is 9 a.m. The agency provides legal services to eligible senior citizens and low-income California residents in civil matters only. Services are free or for a small voluntary donation. Inland Counties Legal Services advises on collection defense, dissolution of marriage (including custody/visitation and support issues), paternity, District Attorney support matters, guardianship, conservatorship, Nursing Home Issues, Social Security and Supplementary Security Income (SSI), Food Stamps, Cal-Works, Medi-Cal (estate claims, liens and eligibility), landlord tenant issues (including eviction defense), estate planning (simple wills, health and financial powers of attorney), probate issues and real property issues. The service does not handle criminal or traffic matters. The Lucerne Valley Outreach Center is located at 32649 Highway 18. For more information, call (toll-free) 888-805-6455, ext. 4520.
Open call for artists
Art at the Aspen, a juried premier art show and art sales event in the High Desert, will take place at 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 10 and Sunday, Oct. 11 at the Aspen Clubhouse in Sun City, 10741 Lakeshore Drive, Apple Valley. The event is staged by the Victor Valley Branch, American Association of University Women. All proceeds benefit AAUW scholarship fund for locally awarded scholarships for women and girls. For more information, contact Art Show Committee Co-VP Chairs Beverly Kennell, 760-946-0862, jimandbev04@msn.com or Cheryl Thompson, 760-961-7582, cat101153@yahoo.com.
CHP is looking to hire officers
The California Highway Patrol is accepting online applications for officer positions on a continuous basis with the intent of hiring 600 cadets every year. CHP officers work traditional patrol duties, but can also join specialized units throughout the state, such as air operations, dignitary protection, computer crimes investigations, vehicle theft task forces, homeland security operations and commercial vehicle inspection programs. Those interested in pursuing a career as a CHP officer are encouraged to visit www.chpcareers.com for information about applications and testing dates throughout California. Candidates must be a U.S. citizen between the ages of 20 and 35, possess a high school diploma and be able to pass an extensive physical evaluation and background check.
CHURCH NEWS
Calvary Bible Church Youth Group
The Calvary Bible Church Youth Group is starting up. We would like to invite all teens for a time of music, Bible reading and fun. Calvary Bible Church is located at 10099 Crystal Creek Road. For more information, call 760-248-6100.
New Spanish Language church service
The Lucerne Valley Assembly of God Church is adding a new Spanish language church service. The new service is Sundays at 6 p.m. (Spanish).
Other service times are Sundays at 10:45 a.m. (English); and Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. (English).
Lucerne Valley Assembly of God Church is located at 10216 Crystal Creek Road, Lucerne Valley. For more information on the Spanish language service call Pastor Joel Elizondo at 760-792-0297.
ONGOING
VFW Post 5551 Friday night dinners
The VFW Post 5551 will be doing Friday night dinners from 3 to 6 p.m. For more information, call 760-248-7484.
Windsong Marriage, Family and Personal Therapy Inc.
Erin D'Orio LMFT offers a wide variety of psychotherapy and healing assistance including hypnotherapy for anxiety, depression, addiction, PTSD and various relationship and life problems. Therapy sessions are by appointment only. Please call 760-885-0231.
HIS CLOSET
His Closet offers free clothes, housewares, furnishings, books, hygiene products and more.
When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays only (weather permitting).
Where: 34551 Highway 18, Lucerne Valley, 760-248-7070.
As people give to us, we give to you! Donations always welcome. Limited pick-up available for large items. We also appreciate volunteers to help process the donated items. Thank you!
HIS PANTRY
His Pantry is a free food distribution to Lucerne Valley.
When: Last Friday of each month. 10 a.m to as long as food lasts, until 1 p.m.
Lucerne Valley residents only, please bring proof of address, and two boxes. As people give to us, we give to you! Donations always welcome.
NIGHT LIFE
Adelita's Mexican Restaurant — Karaoke with MC Ron every Monday and Friday. Monday is adult-only singing. Family Kickback Karaoke is on Friday nights. Adelita's is located at 32666 Highway 18, Lucerne Valley.
Rock's Place Pizza and More — Karaoke and live music every Thursday from 6 to 10 p.m. Live band features Kevin Putzier on keyboards and vocals, Rock Griffith on drums and other local musicians joining in. Rock's Place has pizza, pasta, beer and more. Rock's Place is located at 32800 Old Woman's Spring Road, Lucerne Valley.
Any other night life events in Lucerne Valley? Send information to the Leader at editor@lucernevalleyleader.com.
Staff Report
For more than three months, members of several churches in town cranked up the grill and served hot dinners to anyone who came to Pioneer Park on Friday nights.
The brainchild of Stephanie Cervantes, a member of Lucerne Valley Community Church, the Evening in the Park events featured food, fun a fellowship. Since it began in early summer, hundreds of people have been served, friendships started and souls saved.
While hamburgers, hot dogs, chips and lemonade were on the menu most Fridays, last week's event featured a complete Hawaiian barbecue cooked by Cervantes' husband, David.
Last Friday, worship musicians Billy and Isabella Simpson performed heartfelt versions of popular worship songs while Cervantes performed spirit-filled dance with flags.
Those not enjoying dinner or listening to the praise and worship were playing volleyball or basketball, or riding bikes. During earlier weeks, the recreationally minded played softball and flag football.
Participating churches included Lucerne Valley Community Church, Calvary Bible Church, Crossroads Community Church and others. Though many served from different churches, for many weeks those at the Friday night events became one.
Members of the winning Looneyville Runners team: Larkin Wight, Bob Rader, Richard Rader, Joe Agnew and Pam Hardwick.Submitted photo
APPLE VALLEY — A group of determined bikers from Lucerne Valley prevailed in the inaugural Beater Olympics in Apple Valley last Saturday.
Riding a beaten-up 1978 motorcycle on only one cylinder, the Looneyville Runners team beat six others for a worthy cause. Proceeds from the event, which was held at the Grange Motor Circuit, went to The Bandini Foundation to help pay for veterans to play golf for free at the upcoming Veterans Day golf tournament at the West Los Angeles VA Hospital and also help the homeless.
The winning team consisted of riders Larkin Wight, Bob Rader, Richard Rader, Joe Agnew and Pam Hardwick.
Events including a motorcycle tug-of-war, a drag race, a motorcycle keg push and the "Turtle." The later contest is a twist on conventional racing — the last one to cross the finish line wins. And participants can't touch the ground with their fee.
The contest idea was created by Bikeurious.
Staff Report
LUCERNE VALLEY – The Lucerne Valley Unified School District's governing board will hold a special meeting Monday evening to address several items related to issues with trustee Dawn Turnbull.
The board is expected to adopt a resolution to receive "Certificate of Sufficiency from Registrar of Voters" and set an election date for voters to consider the recall of Turnbull. The board is likely to select Feb. 2 as the best date, LVUSD president Jim Harvey said Friday.
Also, the board will formally decide whether Turnbull has become vacant "after a three month absence from board meetings and performing board responsibilities" per Government Code section 11720(g).
During closed session, the board is expected to discuss three items. The first is a liability claim by Turnbull for damages against the Lucerne Valley Unified School District, Tom Courtney, Suzette Davis, John Buchanan and Keri Gasper. The second and third items are conference calls with the district's legal counsel regarding anticipated undisclosed litigation cases.
The special board meeting will begin at 5:30 p.m. in the district's board room at 8560 Aliento Road, Lucerne Valley.
Photo courtesy the Regensberg family
By Millie Rader
Ginger Regensberg passed away September 24, 2015. Ginger was born Wynona Rae Pitman to Raymond and Bernice Pitman in Jet Oklahoma on January 27, 1937. She moved to Lucerne Valley with her family in 1949, where she attended sixth grade at Midway School. She was then bused to Victor Valley Junior and Senior high school right along with every other Lucerne Valley student at that time.
This is where Ginger’s story intersects mine, and the reason I am writing about the life and the loss of this Lucerne Valley lady. You see though Ginger was two years older than my mom Barbara Veale, they developed a friendship in high school that lasted until the day she left this earth. A friendship that lasts over 60 years is something worth writing about. “She was always there for me,” said Barbara.
To gather the information for this story I spoke with her two sons Danny Ray Regensberg and Jon Mark Regensberg, as well as her niece Tonya Judkins and several of her friends, but most of the information here comes from my own memory, so I ask ahead of time for forgiveness if any of the details seem to have been softened by time.
As I remember it, Ginger got her nickname from her dad. The fact that she came out of the womb with a head full of red hair and a spitfire personality sealed the moniker for life.
Ginger was not a fluffy, sentimental person, she was practical, strong working and strong willed. She never sugar coated the truth, but would tell you exactly what she was thinking. She also had a heart of gold. Add to that a great sense of humor and a cackling laugh and you have one huge personality.
Her favorite joke that she told on many occasions was the fact that she and her late husband Danny Regensberg were married on April Fool’s Day in 1961. The wedding was held at the First Baptist Church which is now the Foursquare Church on Highway 18. It was attended by over 400 friends and family members. My mom told me that it was the first time the church held a wedding of that size and had to open up the accordion doors at the rear of the sanctuary to allow wedding guests to overflow into the fellowship hall. According to Ginger’s son Danny Ray, part of the joke was that most of the 400 guests fully expected the bride and groom to reach the alter and shout “April Fool’s” and then turn it into a big party rather than unite in marriage. But unite they did, and they remained married until his passing in 1989.
Linda Riddle’s memories include Ginger’s love of kids and her big heart. Ginger always had her boys involved in numerous activities. Horseback riding and gymkhanas with ETI when they were still very small, bowling leagues and 4-H in their teens. Linda’s parents both worked, so Ginger always included Linda and her sister Leslie in whatever activity they were involved with. The same was true for my sister’s and I, Ginger would toss us all into the camper shell on her truck, along with the Delperdangs, Yettos, Riddles and Chandlers and others. We all got to go to the movies or bike riding and camping with the 4-H club, to hang out in the livestock area of the fairgrounds and help with the sheep, or whatever other activities Ginger could think of to keep us all out of trouble. Her son Jon remembers that she was the one they all went to if they needed something fixed, like keeping their bike tires repaired and in working order. Danny Ray also remembers that she was the disciplinarian, if they got into trouble, she was usually the one who fixed them with a swat or two to the backside.
Even while raising her boys and the rest of us, she still worked. Danny Ray remembers her telling him that when she was 19 years old she was working for a doll factory, which was probably the Terri Lee doll factory in Apple Valley, when her dad told her he had gotten her a job at Leo’s Market. Leo’s Market was started in 1950 by Leo and Elma Regensberg on the west side of town, and in 1955 they built a new, bigger building in what is now known as the Lucerne Valley Shopping Center. This new market was run by Elma and her son Danny. Of course this is where Ginger met and began dating her husband to be, and there she continued working until they sold the market business to a group of newcomers headed up by Ernie Gommel, and that business became known as the Lucerne Valley Market in 1975. Even after they sold the market, Ginger worked in other Regensberg business ventures including a liquor store and her last business, “Starlight Video.”
The Regensbergs were also co-owners, with George Halleck, of the Lucerne Valley Leader Newspaper for awhile. They purchased the paper from the original owner John Hudson sometime in the late 60s. Ginger then became the Leader Photographer amid all her other duties at the market and mothering two boys and all of their friends. Her son Jon recently ran across her California Highway Patrol Press Pass, Dated 1971-1975.
After closing Starlight Video she was home for the first time with no business to run. Every time I drove by her house I saw her outside watering and tending her Rose bushes. She told me that was her job now, to maintain the yard, and she did a fine job of it. Her roses were spectacular and she always had fruit to give away from her orchard.
I recently ran across a November 1969 Leader newspaper article about a spaghetti dinner fundraiser to raise money to build the new Lucerne Valley Community Church building. Ginger Regensberg and Judy Collins were listed as the “chefs de cuisine,” and Ginger’s sister Doris Stiengall is also pictured in the kitchen of what is now the Community Center. Danny told me that they were attending the Lucerne Valley Community Church at that time when it was still holding services at Midway (School) Park.
Always a friend, in her later years Ginger would grab my Mom and Judy LaMore and head for the movies at least once a week. Then she talked them into joining the Red Hats with Harriet Calfy, Bette Murie, Janet Miller and others, and off they would go to the theater, or boat tours on Big Bear Lake, or thrift store shopping with their red hats bobbing on their heads.
With a long family history of Alzheimer’s Ginger always joked that Danny Ray was going to build a padded cell to keep her in when that time came. The last couple of years she did finally give in to the disease, but was still able to function fairly well until about a year ago when she began to decline rapidly and then was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Danny Ray never made good on his promise of a padded cell, and her son Jon told me how much he respected his brother for keeping their mom at home and taking such good care of her until the end. She asked for no funeral services.
Ginger, there are many adult kids in Lucerne Valley who have fond childhood memories because of you. You also have lifelong friends here who are saddened by your passing. May you rest in peace.
Millie Rader is a writer who is currently working on a history book of her lifelong hometown, Lucerne Valley.
By Peter Day
Senior Staff Writer
Tuesday, Oct. 6
11:40 p.m. A vehicle related disturbance was reported on Buenos Aires Road.
10:27 p.m. A theft was reported on Buenos Aires Road.
6:29 p.m. Criminal threats were reported by a Garnet Road resident.
3:25 p.m. A residential burglary was reported in the vicinity of Pitzer Buttes Road and Powerline Road.
2:56 p.m. A disturbance was reported by Cheshire Road resident.
11:04 a.m. A commercial burglary was reported on Meridian Road.
8:33 a.m. Trespassing reported in the 32600 block of Highway 18.
Monday, Oct. 5
9:35 p.m. A warrant was served on Haynes Road.
3:56 p.m. A residential burglary was reported on Highland Road.
3:34 p.m. A Verde Road resident reported receiving annoying phone calls.
8:19 a.m. A disturbance was reported on Butte Street.
Sunday, Oct. 4
5:17 p.m. A theft was reported on Post Office Road.
8:39 a.m. A disturbance was reported on Highland Road.
6:53 a.m. An arrest was made on Highland Road.
Saturday, Oct. 3
5:20 p.m. Illegal shots were heard in the area of Highway 18 and High Road.
12:05 p.m. A residential burglary was reported on Meridian Road.
Friday, Oct. 2
9:04 p.m. A person was reported missing by a Topaz Road resident.
8:42 p.m. A disturbance was reported on Foothill Road.
3:59 p.m. An arrest was made in the 32900 block of Highway 18.
11:45 a.m. An assault with a deadly weapon incident was reported in the 38400 block of Old Woman Springs Road.
8:01 a.m. An arrest was made on Verdugo Road.
2:16 a.m. A warrant was served on Old Woman Springs Road.
Thursday, Oct. 1
11:20 p.m. A warrant was served at a residence on Haynes Road.
9:07 p.m. A warrant was served on Mesa Road.
8:41 p.m. A bike check was performed in the area of Crystal Creed Road and Santa Rosa Road.
8:24 p.m. A warrant was served in the 32000 block of Emerald Road. The subject was gone upon arrival.
5:08 p.m. A weapon-related arrest was made ion the 10100 block of Cody Avenue.
12:35 p.m. A vehicle was repossessed in the 31300 block of Highway 18.
10:47 a.m. Law enforcement was called to help keep the peace on Haven Rest Road.
7:50 a.m. Law enforcement was called to help keep the peace on Haven Rest Road.
Wednesday, Sept. 30
4 p.m. An arrest was made in the 31500 block of Highway 18.
11:42 a.m. An assault with a deadly weapon situation was reported in the 9300 block of Cody Avenue.
Marilyn L. Metcalf passed away at her home in Lucerne Valley on Sept. 14, 2015. She was born in Queens, NY on Dec. 6, 1937. She was married to Dale Metcalf, who passed away in June 2014. They both ran a water business in the valley.
She is survived by one sister Sharon of Hemet and her five children, son Dwayne and Sandy Metcalf of North Pownal, Vt; son Russell Metcalf of Lucerne Valley; daughter Sharlene More of St Johnsbury, Vt; daughter Janine and Leo Harris of North Pownal, Vt.; son Shawn (Metcalf) And Jane Robidoux of Apple Valley. She is also survived by many grandchildren and great grand children.
By Peter Day
The single most important person in my three decades-long newspaper journalism career is calling it quits after an even longer tenure at the Daily Press.
Steve Williams, a 6'6" septarian who has survived serious health challenges and countless poison arrows, announced his retirement on Page A1 of the Daily Press last week. He was the rock, the Yoda of the newsroom for 35 years.
To say that Steve was my mentor doesn't exactly paint an accurate picture. Our relationship was never of the warm and fuzzy, father-son variety with the elder kindly putting his arm around the cub reporter. It took me many years to realize that behind Steve's gruff exterior was a man of deep conviction and heart.
Steve hired me as a business writer for the Daily Press in late 1985. After passing a spelling test — I guess I spelled "broccoli" correctly — he matter-of-factly looked at me and said, "I think you can do the job."
Back then, the Daily Press came out in the late afternoons, which meant that reporters were putting finishing touches on their stories early in the morning to meet the 8 a.m. deadline. One morning, with the newsroom full of intense, coffee-fueled writers clanking away on their terminals, Steve blurted out, "Day, this is dull, dull, dull!" while reading over my latest submission.
Ouch.
Although it wasn't a fun way to learn, I was taught that even though a newspaper reporter must stick to the facts that we're not writing technical manuals. We must articulate the facts so the reader finds the "story" compelling, interesting. That is just one of many lessons I learned from Steve.
After a few years, and starting a relationship with a staff photographer from Kentucky who would become my wife, I left the Daily Press to explore other opportunities. I bounced around other SoCal newspapers, using the skills I learned from Steve. I even served as editor of my hometown newspaper in the Pasadena area. Eventually I returned to the Daily Press in 2003 to take the position of assistant editor, and later editor, of its weekly Hesperia Star product. By then, Steve had moved over from editor to serve exclusively as head of the opinion pages, a duty he had performed since he started in Victorville. And, of course, he continued writing his popular Sunday opinion column.
It wasn't until I was assigned to helm the Lucerne Valley Leader newspaper in 2013, that I realized what a deep impact Steve's conservative-based commentaries had made on local readers. Many devoted Steve Williams fans in Lucerne Valley hang onto every principled word. Although not nationally known like Charles Krauthammer or George Will, certainly the articles of Steve Williams are as resonant and instructive to locals who concur with his conservative-libertarian philosophy.
With Steve's departure, and John Iddings' last year, the Daily Press has lost the journalistic pillars that made the newspaper among the greats in the region. A new wave of talented editors and reporters have joined the team as the newspaper industry transforms from a daily to 24/7 news provider.
New cub reporters will continue to come and learn the trade. They may never meet Steve Williams or even hear his name, but lurking there in the journalistic labyrinth inside the stoney facade of the Daily Press building are the silent words of a grizzled newspaper veteran. Listen, hear the heartbeat, and learn.
Peter Day is a senior reporter for the Lucerne Valley Leader, which is owned by the Daily Press.
Maintenance workers work on a power line on Barstow Road near Rabbit Springs Road last week. Workers were recently seen upgrading lines on the road also known as State Route 247 and on Highway 18 in Lucerne Valley. PETER DAY / THE LEADER
ABOVE: Barbara "Rusty" LaGrange
The California Writers Club state newsletter, The Bulletin, is scheduled to go electronic in publication and distribution with the first edition planned for roll-out in mid-November of 2015. Barbara "Rusty" LaGrange, former news editor of The Lucerne Valley Leader, produces an outstanding electronic newsletter for High Desert branch (HDCWC) each month and is enthusiastic about continuing the high quality of the club's The Bulletin into the electronic age.
As the oldest writing club in California — in its 106th year — The Bulletin is the news for a growing and diverse community of nearly 1,900 writers.
Appointed by Central Board President David George, The Inkslinger editor, Rusty LaGrange, was recently appointed to replace, Joyce Krieg, the editor of the printed version of The Bulletin. She will hold the editorial positions of two newsletters concurrently.
LaGrange is an avid volunteer in her community with membership in Lucerne Valley Museum Association as its board president, in Lucerne Valley Disaster Readiness Council's CERT program, blogger with HighDesertBlogging.com, as well as an author, photographer, and journalist. For several years she volunteered in a HDCWC writing program for incarcerated authors in the Federal Corrections Complex in Adelanto.
Come and celebrate Wolf Awareness Day at the Big Bear Alpine Zoo on Oct 17 from 11 am to 3 pm. There will be educational and fun things to do at the zoo. The Big Bear Alpine Zoo joins other zoos and animal sanctuaries around the country in celebrating Wolf Awareness Week.
They will dispel the many misconceptions and myths about wolves. The event educates the public on the important role that wolves play within the ecosystem. We will learn that the wolf is not so bad after all.
Practice your howling skills and see if your howl is good enough to get the wolves to howl back.
The zoo currently has nine gray wolves to howl with.
Big Bear Alpine Zoo is located at 43285 Goldmine Drive in Big Bear Lake. The zoo’s winter hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
The Big Bear Alpine Zoo is a wildlife animal sanctuary, rehabilitation and education center founded in 1959 and is operated and owned by the Big Bear Valley Recreation and Park District. The Friends of the Big Bear Alpine Zoo was formed in 1989 as a non-profit public benefit corporation whose purpose is to support the Big Bear Alpine Zoo.
For more information on Wolf Awareness Day call (909) 878-4200 or (909) 584-1299.
