From Staff Reports

The Lewis Center’s Foundation is requesting all High Desert artists to enter its annual “Festival of the Arts” Show and Sale Sept. 14 at the Mojave River Campus.

There is no entry fee for artists or visitors on Sept. 15. Artists may enter in the professional, amateur or student categories. Applications are due by Sept. 3.

Residents from all communities and ages are welcome to attend the show.

Limited spaces are available for vendors, who have 100-percent hand-crafted items and a resale number, with a 10x10 outside space.

For more information, or to download an artist entry form, visit the web at www.lewiscenter.org and click on the LCER/Art Show, or call (760) 946-5414,ext. 201 or 202.

The Lewis Center is located at 17500 Mana Road in Apple Valley.

All names listed are residents of Apple Valley, and all suspected crimes were committed in San Bernardino County unless otherwise stated, as reported by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.

Those whose charges have been dismissed or significantly changed may write to us at News@AppleValley-Review.com. We will investigate the matter. No phone calls.

Aug. 21
April Davis was arrested on suspicion of assault and battery.

Pete Wilson was arrested on suspicion of assault.

Cory Hentschel was arrested on suspicion of burglary.

Aug. 20
David Roes was arrested on suspicion of forgery including checks and/or access cards.

Deandre McGruder was arrested on suspicion of forgery including checks and/or access cards.

Amanda Eaker was arrested on suspicion of narcotics charges.

Paul Becker was arrested on suspicion of assault.

Beatrice Aranda was arrested on suspicion of vandalism.

Samuel King was arrested on suspicion of burglary.

Aug. 19
Richard Holt was arrested on suspicion of unspecified charges.

Ryan Ollis was arrested on suspicion of forgery including checks and/or access cards.

Randi Raines was arrested on suspicion of drugs charges.

Wesley Hawkins was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Eboni Brinkman was arrested on suspicion of assault and battery.

Jude Tafoya was arrested on suspicion of unspecified charges.

Saundra Hardin was arrested on suspicion of assault and battery.

Darcy Ewers was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Mark Mettias was arrested on suspicion of drugs charges.

Keenan Handley was arrested on suspicion of drugs charges.

Aug. 18
Tanieksha Jones Cooper was arrested on suspicion of petty theft.

Ladrina Barnes was arrested on suspicion of petty theft.

Julia Tucker was arrested on suspicion of motor vehicle theft.

Cassandra Heath was arrested on suspicion of assault and battery.

Salvador Segovia was arrested on suspicion of assault.

Joseph Girarmo was arrested on suspicion of drunk in public.

Wendy Peden was arrested on suspicion of felony theft.

Stephen Brock was arrested on suspicion of motor vehicle theft.

Ricky Stevens was arrested on suspicion of motor vehicle theft.

Kaitlyn Lambertew was arrested on suspicion of motor vehicle theft.

Michael Pazconde was arrested on suspicion of assault and battery.

Terrell Colbert was arrested on suspicion of drugs charges.

Aug. 17
Nichole Brown was arrested on suspicion of unspecified charges.

Jesse Ortiz was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Michael Maze was arrested on suspicion of assault.

Denise Voisey was arrested on suspicion of assault and battery.

Christopher Torres was arrested on suspicion of unspecified charges.

Joseph Hutchinson was arrested on suspicion of vandalism.

Aug. 16
Daniel Guzman was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Mark Wilkes was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Murphy Guillory was arrested on suspicion of assault.

Christopher Holbert was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Steven Bristoll was arrested on suspicion of driving offenses.

Eddie Aguirre was arrested on suspicion of burglary.

David Weeks was arrested on suspicion of assault.

Christine Haas was arrested on suspicion of drunk in public.

Aug. 15
Jessica Channell was arrested on suspicion of drugs charges.

Mark Jenkins was arrested on suspicion of drugs charges.

Jeffrey Haley was arrested on suspicion of unspecified charges.

Tracy Hakala was arrested on suspicion of drugs charges.

Randy Anderson was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Joey Carriera was arrested on suspicion of drugs charges.

By Pat Orr
Apple Valley Review

A California judge actually followed the law last week — imagine that — when he ruled that the California High Speed Rail Authority “abused its power” and didn’t follow the law.

You may recall the dumb initiative voters passed to fund this boondoggle required that all of Phase One funding had to be “in place” before construction begins. Unions and rail backers of course would have none of that, so they got the Governor to press forward and authorize the start of constructed with the limited funds provided by the voter passed initiative. Private funding and investor interest has been exactly zero and the project is 19 billion short to build out the line.

Arrogantly, Governor Sunspot says he will sign a contract to build the first 30 miles of track despite the court decision. After all, if the President can ignore or change a law after it’s passed, why not a governor?

Celebrate what?
In 1894, the first Democrat to be elected president after the Civil War, Grover Cleveland, signed into law the national holiday celebrating the “Working Man” which had become know as Labor Day. Developed primarily as a public relations event for union membership with parades, speeches and such, it has evolved into a three-day holiday celebrating the end of summer and little more.

There is very little labor to celebrate, unions are in a self-inflicted death spiral and hundreds of thousands of Americans would love to have any job to get a holiday from.

Too many are on permanent holiday.

Perhaps we should rename this holiday “Out-of-work Day” and have the whole country spend a few days looking for ways to put their neighbors back to work. Now that would be something to celebrate.

The ‘just move it’ mentality
Many critics of a given project often say, “I support this project, it’s just in the wrong place.” If you’re talking about a tree or a new sidewalk, I can see some validity in the argument.

When it comes to a new development like the proposed Wal-Mart here in town, it’s clear there have been hundreds of thousands of dollars spent on traffic, demographic and growth studies for the company to settle on this piece of dirt. To come along and suggest the whole project be moved to another part of town is just silly.

The corner of Navajo and Highway 18 features a closed Thrifty and Carl’s Jr. This center stays empty because the major property owner gets full rent from his old grocery tenant and because the surrounding neighborhood has badly deteriorated. The corner of Central Road and Highway 18 is also open but you can shoot a canon and not hit 50 rooftops. Not exactly motivating for a developer looking to spend several million bucks on a retail center.

Locating an expensive project in the wrong place or area not yet ready is a tough pill to swallow for even the largest retailers. I give you the Apple Valley “North” Lowe’s as an example.

If you hate it, oppose it. Just don’t ask them to move it after five years of research, planning and development.

Pat Orr is a local business owner, community volunteer and political junkie.

By Rene De La Cruz and Martial Haprov
Apple Valley Review

A chance radio spot helped one local high school go high-tech recently.

The Parent Teacher Student Organization at Granite Hills High School earlier this year launched an effort to replace its aging outdoor sign with a new digital — and expensive — one, according to PTSO President Kelly Libby, who spearheaded the effort.

“Our old school sign died several years ago,” Libby said. In a previous Apple Valley Review story, Libby said the school needed an electronic sign that scrolls to reach out to the parents and students.

“I went on the radio one morning, just a short two- or three-minute spot, to tell the community about our needs and what we were trying to accomplish,” Libby said. They had already planned an electronic waste recycling event as a fundraiser, which Libby said was successful, but the radio spot was the key to getting the sign.

“Dr. Prem Reddy happened to be in the High Desert, in his car, listening to the radio at the very moment I was speaking,” she said. After hearing the spot, Reddy, chairman, CEO and president of Prime Healthcare Services and Desert Valley Medical Group, reached out to the PTSO about their financial needs. Libby said Reddy has a daughter who graduated from Granite.

Through his Dr. Prem Reddy Family Foundation, Reddy donated the $43,370 needed to make the new state-of-the-art digital board possible, said Libby.

Libby said Reddy’s donation means that her and an army of parents and students didn’t have to spend every weekend washing cars to raise funds for the sign.

The previous sign, which was removed earlier this year, served it purpose according to Libby, but the elements, wear and tear and its “old-school” look did not command attention.

The new LED board will work to unite the campus as it welcomes students and visitors, promotes campus events, recognizes academic and athletic achievments and shows time and temperature. A big plus to the sign’s allure is its ability to show short video clips, which Libby said could include clips from football games and graduation ceremonies.

“Our kids came in (for the school year) full of pride, and the parents are excited,” Zayra Hall, a PTSO organizer who works in the school’s Family Resource Center, said on Friday. “I see the participation and school pride increasing. I hope this sign is a sign that more positive things are coming to Granite Hills High School.”

Rene De La Cruz may be reached at 760-951-6227 or at RDeLaCruz@VVDailyPress.com. Martial Haprov may be reached at 760-951-6236 or at MHaprov@VVDailyPress.com.

By Davida Siwisa James
Apple Valley Review

“Now stretch. Stretch as high as you can. Lift those arms. OK, Now we are going to be soldiers and march in place.”

Those are the gentle directives from Elba Harstad leading the group of between 15 and 20 senior citizens in their daily exercise class. They are residents of the Rock Spring Retirement Community on Bear Valley Road in Apple Valley.

Bracing themselves on the chairs in front of them or from sitting positions, the seniors stretch, step lively or sit swinging their arms, using stretch bands to give them optimum reach. Some are a bit more active than others, but all eyes are on the lady at the front directing their exercises both with the microphone and by example — 100-year-old Harstad.

Another resident, Harold Reid, is a big fan of Harstad and her positive spirit.

“I’ve been here a year and I was just amazed at Elba,” Reid said. “And then I joined the exercise group and I was surprised that Elba was the leader.”

Reid has lived in Apple Valley for 30 years, having served at one time as a civilian chief design engineer at George Air Force Base. He continued to work in the environmental cleanup for several years after the base closed.

Harstad joined the Rock Spring community when they first opened seven years ago.

“I was one of the first ones to walk in the door,” Harstad said. “This is a wonderful place. I enjoyed it right from the beginning.”

Harstad took over the class at the request of the activity director who was busy with other events and needed some help.

“She came to me one day and asked if I would take over the exercise class for her,” Harstad said. “I think it was about two years ago. I just continued the routines she had done.”

Husband and wife team Erika and Shawn Irwin are the live-in resident managers at Rock Spring. They both attest to how much people love Harstad.

“Elba is our queen of Rock Spring,” said Erika Irwin. “That’s how everybody refers to her. She has been an inspiration to everyone. She gets up from early in the morning and does not go home until late at night.”

Harstad, who was raised in Minnesota, said she has been in 52-below-zero temperatures and loves the warm weather in the High Desert.

“I came out here in 1982 because I married my second husband,” Harstad said. “He was my boyfriend in high school.” After decades apart, Harstad’s old high school beau found out that she was widowed. He asked if he could visit her. It only took that visit to renew their love. “He asked me to marry him before he went back, and we moved to Apple Valley that same year.”

To celebrate her century birthday in May, Rock Spring had a square dance company come to perform since Harstad used to dance in her younger days.

“I’ve square danced from here to Washington, D.C., up in the mountains in Kentucky and in Texas,” Harstad said. “That was my fun stuff.”

Manager Shawn Irwin said that Harstad took a step or two with the square dancers.

“Her longevity is a testament to maintaining a positive attitude, staying active and being social,” Shawn Irwin said.

When one of the male residents passed by, he pointed toward Harstad asking Reid what he was doing with his girl. Harstad smiled, like any woman would who was being praised by one man and teased by another.

“She’s always happy,” Reid said.

“I don’t see any sense in being sad,” Harstad replied. “God didn’t put us in this world to be sad. He’s given us a beautiful country. I have traveled all over and every place I’ve gone has been absolutely beautiful.”

Vintage Gypsies’ owner shocked at 1,000-percent increase for event permit

By Martial Haprov
EDITOR

One local business owner was shocked on Thursday when she went to pay her fees for hosting a one-day flea market in her parking lot.

Beckie Pomponio runs Vintage Gypsies, a collectibles shop operating out of Cottage 302 at the Historic Apple Valley Inn. Pomponio said when she went to Town Hall on Thursday to get the permit for a flea market she’s planning to host in September, the amount she was charged for the permit was staggering, and a stark difference from the last time she applied.

“We applied in May for our June event, and it cost $49 then,” Pomponio said by phone Thursday afternoon. “Today, it was $491. I just couldn’t believe it.”

In July, the Town Council voted unanimously to approve several fee increases related to town services, including special events permits. Increases to these fees hadn’t happened since 2008.

At the July 9 council meeting, Councilman Larry Cusack said it was unfortunate the town hadn’t addressed the fees issue previously, which could have prevented the increases for some items. Cusack also said he believed it was necessary for the Town to make the changes, but requested that an annual study be conducted to prevent this type of increase from occurring in the future.

Meanwhile, Pomponio said the future of her flea markets, which had grown in foot traffic and vendor population, is in great doubt.

“I just can’t justify charging vendors more money or putting that much out myself,” Pomponio said. “We’re struggling as it is to make ends meet.”

Pomponio said when she began the flea markets, there were six vendors and about 25 customers who turned out for the day. At her June event, she said at least 35 vendors had their fare on display for sale, and estimated some 600 shoppers came out to the market.

“The event has grown tremedously and we try to help the community at every opportunity,” Pomponio said. “This is now one less event the town will benefit from as far as customers spending money elsewhere.”

Pomponio said when she asked for an explanation for the 1,000-percent increase in the permit fee at Town Hall, “ ‘I don’t know’ was the answer I got,” she said.

Town spokeswoman Kathie Martin on Thursday confirmed the increased fees are accurate and were a result of the council’s unanimous vote in July.

“This just means I can’t do my events anymore,” Pomponio said. “I can’t justify it.”

Pomponio said she still plans to go ahead with the Sept. 7 market — likely her last — from 9 to 5 p.m. at the Historic Apple Valley Inn, 20001 Highway 18.

Martial Haprov may be reached at 760-951-6236 or at MHaprov@VVDailyPress.com.

All names listed are residents of Apple Valley, and all suspected crimes were committed in San Bernardino County unless otherwise stated, as reported by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.

Those whose charges have been dismissed or significantly changed may write to us at News@AppleValley-Review.com. We will investigate the matter. No phone calls.

Aug. 28
Jennifer M. Mills was arrested in Orange County on suspicion of narcotics charges.

Brandon Maldonado was arrested on suspicion of drunk in public.

Paul Boubion was arrested on suspicion of petty theft.

Christie Rocha was arrested on suspicion of motor vehicle theft.

Billy Turner was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

John Grigsby was arrested on suspicion of unspecified charges.

Robert Masterson was arrested on suspicion of assault.

Joshua Pretzer was arrested on suspicion of drunk in public.

Aug. 27
Felicia Villa was arrested on suspicion of unspecified charges.

Alexander Consepcion was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Joseph Myers was arrested on suspicion of felony theft.

Rory Pattie was arrested on suspicion of motor vehicle theft.

James Maldonado was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Ronald Million was arrested on suspicion of robbery.

Danilo Santos was arrested on suspicion of assault.

Frank Ramirez was arrested on suspicion of assault.

Aug. 26
William Fatino was arrested on suspicion of drugs charges.

Aug. 25
Manuel Rodriguez was arrested on suspicion of petty theft.

Elisha Canchola was arrested on suspicion of assault and battery.

Rick Chapman was arrested on suspicion of drugs charges.

Dalevon Odom was arrested on suspicion of unspecified charges.

William Torres was arrested on suspicion of narcotics charges.

Arthur Thomas was arrested on suspicion of drunk in public.

Mark Halpin was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Richard Redfern was arrested on suspicion of drunk in public.

Leonard Aguirre was arrested on suspicion of assault and battery.

Aug. 24
Jason Brewer was arrested on suspicion of unspecified charges.

Arthur Hubert was arrested on suspicion of felony theft.

Simon Benavidez was arrested on suspicion of drugs charges.

Regina Longoria was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Aug. 23
Debra Oconn was arrested on suspicion of drugs charges.

Allen Smith was arrested on suspicion of drunk in public.

Stephanie Reese was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Stephen Smith was arrested on suspicion of assault and battery.

Manuel Martinez was arrested on suspicion of burglary.

Derrick Patterson was arrested on suspicion of assault and battery.

Clinton Galbreath was arrested on suspicion of drunk in public.

Samantha Leggett was arrested on suspicion of assault.

Aug. 22
Juan Cruz-quin was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Jacob Laguna was arrested on suspicion of driving offenses.

Michael Chavez was arrested on suspicion of drugs charges.

Princeton Lee was arrested on suspicion of sex crimes.

Marshall Ibarra was arrested on suspicion of unspecified charges.

By Daniel B. Jeffs
Apple Valley Review

Surely, we need reign in the self-corruption of big government tied to big unions, such as the SEIU — now organizing young, innocent fast food workers with the untenable notion of doubling their entry-level minimum wage — which will hurt the small business franchises of McDonald’s, Burger King, Wendy’s, Taco Bell and all the others — and in the end will hurt the workers, raise the cost of food, reduce jobs, and hurt low income consumers who depend on low cost meals. The fast food industry has long-provided valuable entry-level work for millions, which is being put at risk in an already failing economy.

My first job out of high school was at the first McDonald’s in Downey in 1957, and I was happy to get it. My high school sweetheart and future wife’s first job was at Foster Freeze. One of our son’s first jobs was at a new Carl’s Jr. and our daughter worked at a Subway Sandwich shop in Apple Valley in the 1980s. Learning those first job skills, a work ethic, responsibilities and self reliance were vital to our future success. Our son built a successful business and our daughter is on the executive staff in the federal prison system.

After working at McDonald’s, I worked at a tire shop, a fiberglass laminating shop, on the assembly line at a GM plant, in aerospace as a laminator and draftsman — and subsequently went on to a 41-year career in law enforcement and the criminal justice system. I watched the liberal/progressive ideology rip the heart out of public education, the workplace, government, traditional morals, the family, society, our founding principles, the rule of law, and our nation as a whole.

Indeed, when liberal social justice tyrants takeover education, government, unions, business and industry with over-regulation, punishing taxes on small business and personal success, while runaway government spending and insurmountable debt go on unabated — driving our country on a fast track to ruin — it’s time to put on the brakes and just say, “No more.”

Daniel B. Jeffs is an Apple Valley resident and the author of the series, “Letters to the Editor: From the Trenches of Democracy.”

By Pat Orr
Apple Valley Review

Assemblyman Tim Donnelly is putting his campaign for governor into a higher gear locally. He has laid on a big fundraiser in Apple Valley for Oct. 12 that should draw lots of interest. Since he cannot file to run for Governor and his Assembly seat too, he appears to have gone all in for the big job.

Once you start collecting serious campaign cash to then turn around and not run would be just as bad as losing. I have already heard folks are lining up to take a run at Donnelly’s Assembly seat when he moves on — either up or out. I suspect it will look a lot like the last Congressional and Supervisor races where we had a dozen candidates to select from.

What is Brad Mitzelfelt doing these days?

Things I learned last week
• The San Bernardino County Sherriff’s Department has issued more Concealed Carry Weapons Permits in the first half of 2013 than in all of 2012. See next item for one reason.

• According to San Bernardino County Sheriff John McMahon, the State Prison System has a 70-percent re-offend rate. Seven out of 10 inmates released commit new crimes.

• Observers feel that the terrible wild fires all over our state will influence the court to reject the pending law suit against the “Rural Fire Fee.” There is little doubt that Cal Fire will burn through budget dollars faster than projected this year and Judges follow the news and want to protect their own budgets.

• In a gathering before the Senate Judiciary Committee Meeting, our California Senator Diane Frankenstein was heard to say, “All vets are mentally ill in some way and government should prevent them from owning firearms”.

Wonder if she’ll get any speaking invites this Veterans Day?

• The Wal-Mart initiative on the November ballot will be designated Measure D. An easy way to remember its location: D for Dale Evans Parkway.

• Sept. 10 is the last day for our vaunted Legislature to pass new bills in this session. Dozens of stupid laws, fees and regulations await frenzied action by the yahoos in Sacramento. God help us all.

• Sutter Brown is Jerry Brown’s dog and the dog has a blog. The Fair Political Practices Commission is considering a rule that requires bloggers and others who get paid to post social media messages by politicians or campaigns to identify themselves as paid campaign workers.

Sutter has been neutered and he and his Democratic buddies aren’t happy.

You see, millions are spent on paying people to post fake support/opposition messages on social networks favored by young voters or voters with specific issue interests. Expect the FPPC to bury this issue quicker than Sutter hides his organic tofu chewy bones.

• More than 60 million cases of beer are sold in the two weeks proceeding Labor Day making it the “best beer drinking holiday” on our national calendar. A close second is the July 4 holiday.

Pat Orr is a local business owner, community volunteer and political junkie.

By Martial Haprov
Editor

Beckie Pomponio was nearly certain her days of hosting flea markets were over.

Pomponio, who runs the Vintage Gypsies shop at the Historic Apple Valley Inn, said she was ready to give up on hosting the quarterly events in the parking lot of her shop after being told the fee to hold the event each time would be $491, a 1,000-percent increase from the $49 she previously paid.

The increase was the result of a unanimous Town Council vote last July to raise fees related to town services, including special events permits.

Pomponio said she was discouraged until a town employee recognized a way to work with the shop and get back to the $49 charge.

“They said if I went with a seasonal sale permit, which the town allows you to do two times a year, it would only be $49,” Pomponio said, paying the $49 and proceeding with plans for the Saturday event. “But they called me back on Monday and said they made a mistake, based on the type of event, and it would from here on out be $491.”

Town spokeswoman Kathie Martin explained by email the process for establishing fees.

“Town permit fees are based on the amount of town resources used to process the permit,” Martin wrote. “In the case of special events, when hundreds of people may arrive at a location all at once, there are potential impacts on traffic and police.”

Pomponio said her most recent event, a market in June, brought in at least 35 vendors and approximately 600 customers.

Martin said more factors go into the basis of the charges.

“Signage may require code enforcement review, and engineering may need to insure vehicle and pedestrian access in public areas is not impacted,” Martin said. “Town staff needs to insure adequate sanitation and trash facilities are provided.

“We have to base our decision on the information provided. Future events will receive the same review and fees charged accordingly.”

According to Martin, the Town Council in 2005 requested a consultant analyze the fees and costs of town services at that time and present back a study of the findings. Through discussions, staff reported while the town was subsidizing certain services by 50 percent in some cases and 5 percent in others, they’ve long recognized the benefit of those services to the community.

But with the town seeing its own costs rise, the council voted in July on the increases, something that hadn’t been done in Apple Valley in more than five years.

For Pomponio, she said she’s going to work with her market’s vendors and possibly explore the justification in continuing with events beyond September.

“We try to do everything faithfully and properly and comply,” Pomponio said. “We’re just going to wait and see what happens after this flea market. It’s not about me and my shop, it’s about the community.”

Martin said she remains hopeful the town and Vintage Gypsies can continue a positive working relationship.

“I love that store — it’s in such a perfect spot and fits here in Apple Valley,” Martin said. “It’s filled with artisans and hopefully we can keep the weekend event.”

Martial Haprov may be reached at 760-951-6236 or at MHaprov@VVDailyPress.com.

By Davida Siwisa James
Apple Valley Review

Diving in to a game isn’t a problem for the Granite Hills High School Water Polo Team.

Splashing their way to a league victory, however, is sometimes a problem — only because there isn’t a nearby league to which they can belong.

But that doesn’t stop the team from having a solid group of enthusiastic players joining each year, with a near 100-percent retention rate, according to Lee Bennett, one of four coaches.

The team has a collaborative relationship with the Town of Apple Valley that has allowed them access to the town’s swimming pool as their home base for years. The team has the distinction of being the only water polo team in the region, according to Bennett. And because of its uniqueness geographically, they’re one of the few “at large” high school teams in Southern California.

“We get freshmen who sign up for water polo,” Bennett said, “and these kids have never played or even seen a water polo game.”

Water polo is not a very publicized sport in the United States, Bennett explained, unlike Eastern European countries where its popularity is analogous to Americans love of football and baseball.

“Most high schools with a water polo team have a pool at the school,” Bennett said. “So they usually practice four or five hours a day with a morning practice as early as 5 (a.m.).”

Bennett said practices have to be very focused because they only average about three hours a day. Despite the working relationship the school has with the town for the use of its pool, they still have to alternate their practices around the town’s schedule.

There are times, Bennett said, when the team has had its first away game before practice starts for the year.

“I’ve literally been traveling to an away game with an iPad showing kids what water polo looks like and explaining the rules,” Bennett said. “It’s a very complex game and the rule book from California Interscholastic Federation is about 65 pages.”

Bennett and the other three coaches — Carmen Postoy, Bennett’s wife, Tracie, and Jeff Sievers — work with both the boys’ and girls’ teams as they are needed.

Despite its many challenges, the water polo team holds its own quite well against the other teams, Bennett said, though he does not readily keep track of the win-loss ratio.

“We focus on a lot of other things,” Lee Bennett said. “There are valuable life lessons — winning and losing with grace, being part of a team and having people count on you.”

Lee Bennett said coaches don’t tolerate cursing or yelling, and that they’ve lost a couple of players over the years when they would not adhere to those rules.

“Parents come out to watch their kids for the first time and they are amazed at the athleticism that is required above and beyond whatever they thought,” Lee Bennett said.

The geographic separation also means the team travels a great deal. Bennett said they’re often on the road to San Bernardino, Indio and points beyond for games.

“I was on the water polo team all four years of high school,” said Angela Cobbs, a recent graduate. “I loved playing. The team bonded on the buses. That’s where we got to know each other.”

Bennett’s son, Tyler, a senior, hopes to parlay his love for the game and his 6’7”, 240-pound stature into a college scholarship playing water polo. According his father and coach, water polo players are generally big bodied.

“Mostly, I like all the fun that we have,” Tyler Bennett said. “I like everything you learn about being a person in general.”

Tyler Bennett said, for him, the away games are one of the best parts of high school because they “teach you about sportsmanship, how you need to behave, and character.”

Community rallying to raise money for heart transplant recipient

By Billynda Griffith
For the Apple Valley Review

The lives of the Podsiad family changed forever when their son was suddenly diagnosed with a degenerative heart disease.

Two days later came the shocking news that a heart transplant would be the only therapy for 14-year-old Evan Podsiad’s Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Dysplasia/Cardiomyopathy. Podsiad’s once healthy heart muscle had been slowly replaced with non-functional tissue, resulting in the inability of his heart to function properly.

Because of the severity of this disease, Podsiad was placed into the most medically urgent classification, known as Status 1A.

To his family’s surprise, he received a heart on July 9.

But the journey didn’t stop there.

He had some unexpected symptoms of rejection and has been in and out of the hospital since he got his new heart. On Aug. 20, his 14th birthday, he returned to the Cardio-Thoracic ICU of Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles and is in isolation until further notice, where not even his brothers can visit.

His father, Ryan Podsiad, and his mother, Jill Thompson Podsiad, both grew up in the High Desert. Grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins still live locally.

Ryan Podisad joined the US Navy in 1996 and is now a Senior Chief at the San Diego Naval Station, and his mother Jill is currently a surgical technician in Mammoth Lakes. Evan also has a 17-year-old brother named Adam and a 12-year-old brother named Ian.

The family has temporarily relocated to Ronald McDonald House in Los Angeles while he gets further treatment. Consequently, the family is faced with this new financial challenge of relocation, commuting to work, as well as impending medical costs from his recent two-month stay in ICU and Heart Transplant.

His condition still very critical, family and frieds are calling upon the community to help during this difficult time.

On Sept. 21, The Venue at Apple Valley Baptist Church will host a fundraiser in his honor.

The family is currently seeking donations in the form of volunteers, talent show participants, raffle items, auction items or monetary contributions. Donations can also be made to thebeatgoeson4evan.org or The Evan Podsiad Fund to P.O. Box 584, Apple Valley, CA 92307. Friends of the family say they will be happy to arrange pick-up for any donations.

Tickets for “The Beat Goes on in Apple Valley for Evan” are $25 each. There are two dinner/show times: the first is from 3 to 5 p.m., and 5 to 7 p.m. The event will include amazing raffle prizes, catering by Mama Carpino’s, entertainment, and, best of all, a community of people all joining together to support a local child in need. All proceeds from this event will go to Evan and his family to alleviate the financial burden of his heart transplant.

All names listed are residents of Apple Valley, and all suspected crimes were committed in San Bernardino County unless otherwise stated, as reported by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.

Those whose charges have been dismissed or significantly changed may write to us at News@AppleValley-Review.com. We will investigate the matter. No phone calls.

Sept. 4
Laronn Smith was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Katrina Lawrence was arrested on suspicion of burglary.

Kaitlyn Lambertew was arrested on suspicion of petty theft.

John Bean was arrested on suspicion of drugs charges.

Jimmy Franklin was arrested on suspicion of burglary.

Scott McKerlie was arrested on suspicion of drugs charges.

Casey Castiglione was arrested on suspicion of unspecified charges.

Michael Maze was arrested on suspicion of drugs charges.

Walter Merritt was arrested on suspicion of unspecified charges.

Edward Carrillo was arrested on suspicion of driving offenses.

Cindy Eide was arrested on suspicion of drugs charges.

Eric Thompson was arrested on suspicion of assault.

Robert Miser was arrested on suspicion of unspecified charges.

Sept. 3
Jonathan Steiner was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Lizzette Montes was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Jamel West was arrested on suspicion of robbery.

Milina Segovia was arrested on suspicion of drugs charges.

Jennifer Brinko was arrested on suspicion of drugs charges.

Sept. 2
David Kary was arrested on suspicion of weapons charges.

Christopher Bindner was arrested on suspicion of drugs charges.

Pedro Hernandez was arrested on suspicion of assault and battery.

Valorie Kanoho was arrested on suspicion of vehicular manslaughter.

Sept. 1
Joseph Simmons was arrested on suspicion of unknown.

John Jolley was arrested on suspicion of assault and battery.

Katelyn Ford was arrested on suspicion of unspecified charges.

Buddy Neher was arrested on suspicion of malicious mischief.

Thomas Lanini was arrested on suspicion of assault and battery.

Dennis Romero was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Marco Palacios was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Jessie Taylor was arrested on suspicion of assault.

Taylor Bonneau was arrested on suspicion of drunk in public.

Samantha Jordan was arrested on suspicion of drugs charges.

Aug. 31
Jose Espinoza was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Joseph Ruis was arrested on suspicion of drunk in public.

Aug. 30
Issac Lara was arrested on suspicion of felony theft.

Anthony Hartwell was arrested on suspicion of burglary.

Paul Ortega was arrested on suspicion of driving offenses.

Nathan Smalley was arrested on suspicion of other charges.

Aaron Gehrke was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Joanna Sanchez was arrested on suspicion of drugs charges.

Joseph Chavez was arrested on suspicion of marijuana charges.

David David was arrested on suspicion of misdemeanor offenses.

By Pat Orr
Apple Valley Review

My son-in-law recently pulled the whole family into the 21st Century by talking everyone into joining our own family fantasy football league. I can’t think of anything more fun than having the in-laws and out-laws mad at you because your fantasy team kicked their fantasy team’s butt last Sunday.

Sounds like a modern version of family unity to me.

But it got me to thinking: Why can’t we — those of us who care about America — start a fantasy political leadership league? We could draft a top 10 President, Vice President (if there are 10 top VPs) Secretary of Defense and Secretary of State, then battle it out over known national economic and security crises scenarios. My drafted team is currently composed of:

President — Andrew Jackson
If Andy didn’t like you he’d slap you or shoot you. Clear leadership, and he beat the British at New Orleans. “Boots on the ground” didn’t scare him.

Vice-President — Harry Truman
He was expected to be an empty suit standing behind FDR but turned into a leader overnight when called upon. Never a “showboat” politician.

Secretary of State — John Foster Dulles
Made the strategic moves to keep Communism from spreading during the 1950s and had a brother in charge of the CIA. He got things done behind the scenes to protect America’s interests.

Secretary of Defense — Don Rumsfeld
Opinionated, brutally honest, knowledgeable and just plain fun to watch answer a reporter’s really stupid question at a press conference.

So put the current Syrian “issue” in front of my team and how long do you think it would take for these leaders to permanently solve the problem. Not long I’ll wager. A Fantasy Political Leadership League may be the only answer for those of us who can no longer bear to pick up the newspaper or watch TV News. Hey, it can’t be any worse than expecting real results from the group we’ve got in charge now.

Why aren’t they in school?
When I got a copy of the 2013-14 Apple Valley Unified School District schedule, I gave Superintendent Tom Hogerman a bad time about all the minimum days scheduled this year. If you’re wondering why there are so many kids running loose on Wednesday in town, it’s because the high schools are out by noon and the elementary schools release between 11:45 a.m. and 12:40 p.m.

What happened to keeping the little darlings chained to their desk to learn?

According to Hogerman, the school year was actually lengthened in days to accommodate more prep time for teachers during the week, hence more minimum days.

Being married to a dedicated elementary school marm, I know the good ones put in hundreds of extra hours a year without a specified “prep period.” On the other hand, let’s see what happens to vandalism and street crime reports on Wednesdays with all the extra middle and high schoolers out wandering around unsupervised. What will go up faster, break-ins or teen pregnancy rates?

Just let ’em die, Jerry
Many of the stupid laws passed in the last two weeks will land on Gov. Sunspot’s desk before the end of this week. It’s time to sit down and write that angry letter to Jerry and let him know that he can stop the madness and help improve our state by just sitting on his hands and let these laws die.

Some think he signs a few of the really outrageous ones just to tick off the leaders of his own party — like the now infamous “Bathroom Bill.” The Dems all wanted a yes vote on their liberal record but no one seriously expected Jerry to sign the darn thing and make it law. That way they could have their cake but get no kick back.

Just go to your computer and type in, “bills awaiting California Governor’s signature,” then pick the one or two most stupid and write that letter. Oh yes, try not to get depressed when you read some of the bills that have passed this session and are bound to become law.

Pat Orr is a local business owner, community volunteer and political junkie.

By Martial Haprov
Editor

A recent grant from a state agency now makes it possible for residents to properly dispose of medical sharps, according to town officials.

The Sharps Grant Project, under the Household Hazardous Waste Grant Program through the California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery, also known as CalRecycle, allows for the distribution of sharps waste containers or kiosks, according to the CalRecycle website.

The nonmonetary grant was awarded to the town, providing some 900 containers for distribution, according to Joseph Moon, town special projects manager.

The California Health and Safety Code defines “home-generated sharps waste” as hypodermic needles, pen needles, intravenous needles, lancets and other devices that are used to penetrate the skin for the delivery of medications derived from a household, including a multifamily residence or household.

There are three locations with sharps disposal containers in Apple Valley:
• Household Hazardous Waste Collection Center, 13450 Nomwaket Road, open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays except Nov. 23 and Dec. 28;

• Jess Ranch Fire Station #337, 19305 Jess Ranch Parkway, open 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Mondays except holidays;

• Fire Station #331, 22400 Headquarters Drive, open 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday except holidays.

Residents with full sharps containers can bring them to any of these locations for a free, empty replacement.

For more information or a complete list of other items accepted at the Household Hazardous Waste Collection Center, call 760-240-7500 or visit www.GreenAppleValley.org.

Martial Haprov may be reached at 760-951-6236 or at MHaprov@VVDailyPress.com.

Granite Hills alum juggling musical aspirations, education plans

By Davida Siwisa James
Apple Valley Review

From chasing a love affair with music to becoming a lawyer, Archie Roundtree Jr. has his eyes open wide and his mindset focused.

Roundtree, who as a young hip-hop artist goes by the stage name “Tru-Ace,” has a solid plan for his career. He wants to continue his budding music career, ace the Law School Admissions Test, have a chart-topping music single, win a couple of Grammys, finish law school and then become an entertainment lawyer with a Grammy on his bookshelf.

That’s all.

The Granite Hills High School alum discovered his talent for making rhymes in high school. He’s been on an upward trajectory with his career ever since, performing at small clubs and convention centers. He just completed his business administration degree with a minor in business law at California State University, Northridge. His busy schedule includes his time in the studio recording his first CD with a major label and attending his LSAT prep course.

Home in Apple Valley for a short visit with his parents, Tru-Ace is determined to successfully juggle all the many balls he has in the air.

“I am a military kid,” Roundtree said. “My father was in the Air Force. Apple Valley was the first place where I had consistency and stayed in one place.”

Roundtree said he loved being able to come back to his alma mater.

“I had a great experience here,” Roundtree said. “It’s a blessing to be able to come back, tell my story and say, ‘I know what you guys are going through.’ ”

Roundtree described the initial incident that prompted him to write music when his cousin was on punishment and couldn’t attend the homecoming dance. Tru-Ace got an earful from his date for ditching the dance just to provide moral support for his cousin.

“She was mad at me,” Roundtree said with a smile, “but something good came out of it because that was the day I wrote my first song.”

From then on the artist said any time he was irritated or happy, he would write to express his feelings.

“I just started going to pen and pad,” he said. “The more I wrote, stuff started coming out about different experiences.”

One of Roundtree’s teachers at Granite Hills, Morena DeLaRoca, noticed him scribbling in a book in class one day. But when she asked him what it was and saw his poetry, rather than reprimanding him she encouraged his talent. He loves that his parents are supportive of all his goals and of his teacher’s early support.

“I believe with music everything is elevated to new levels,” Roundtree said. “I started just doing poetry and spoken word stuff, and later putting it into a melody or a beat.”

At 22 years old, he’s already has several sponsors, but is most proud of his sponsorship from Vlado Footwear, whose line includes footwear and apparel for men and women.

“Vlado sponsors hip-hop artists, but it is more a lifestyle brand,” he said. “They have styles for every occasion.”

There is an earlier music talent in the family. Roundtree’s brother, whose stage name is “Skee-Lo,” had a hit song in the 1990s called “I Wish (I was a little bit taller).” The song once reached No. 13 on the Billboard charts.

Roundtree said he hopes his music speaks to the average kid and what they are going through. He is also proud that he doesn’t use profanity in his music.

Roundtree expressed his excitement and humility that he is currently cutting his first CD with Tommy Boy Entertainment LLC, formerly Tommy Boy Records. The independent label has a long successful record with top artists such as Naughty by Nature and Queen Latifah.

“I don’t believe in luck too much,” he said. “I believe there is hard work and persistence. If you just keep at it, eventually you’ll get to your goal.”

For more information, visit www.truace.com.

Rock Spring Retirement Community hosting day of activities Saturday

BY AMY ZILLNER
APPLE VALLEY REVIEW

Sacrifice is a word associated with deployed servicemen and women in the military for serving their country — it’s not often applied to their children that are left behind.

“Operation Military Kids is an organization, a partnership between 4-H and the (United States) Army,” San Bernardino County OMK coordinator Lisa Chamberlain said. “What we do is try to support children of a military parent who are deployed and do not live on base,” since families living on base already have support, she said.

“I think a lot of times they’re forgotten — not even forgotten, just not thought of,” Chamberlain said, with people not considering the sacrifices and different emotions the kids experience with missing holidays, birthdays and back to school days when their parent is deployed.

But Operation Military Kids keeps these kids in mind.

On Saturday, they can enjoy a free day of fun at Rock Spring Retirement Community from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. with activities including carnival games and prizes, face painting, a bounce house, horse rides, as well as a demonstration by Victorville Tae Kwon Do.

“We want them to feel like heroes,” Chamberlain said. “We understand it’s not just the parent sacrificing — they are sacrificing as well, and we want to acknowledge them.”

Kids will also get a “hero backpack” with back-to-school supplies and can choose from various books about having a deployed parent or a journal provided by the American Legion Auxiliary. With only a limited amount available, military families with a deployed parent need to RSVP so a pack can be reserved, Chamberlain said.

Rock Spring will also provide free lunch to military families with a deployed parent. The public is welcome but the free meal and hero backpacks are reserved for military families with a deployed parent, Chamberlain said.

According to Chamberlain, the California OMK is no longer funded by state grants and the county is in need of community involvement through volunteers and donations for the support to continue.

“People should come out and learn more about OMK and how they can support these little heroes,” Chamberlain said. “Join our network. Anyone can join — business, community member, individual, or family, and help out however they can.”

Rock Spring Retirement Community is located at 20594 Bear Valley Road. For more information or to RSVP, call Chamberlain at 909-225-1011 or learn more online at www.OperationMilitaryKids.org. Donations are accepted through the Apple Valley ALA Unit 256. For more information call Judy Samples 760-247-8915.

All names listed are residents of Apple Valley, and all suspected crimes were committed in San Bernardino County unless otherwise stated, as reported by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.

Those whose charges have been dismissed or significantly changed may write to us at News@AppleValley-Review.com. We will investigate the matter. No phone calls.

Sept. 11
Amanda Hinman was arrested on suspicion of burglary.

Carmen Munoz was arrested on suspicion of assault.

Stephen King was arrested on suspicion of felony theft.

Jesse Gonzalez was arrested on suspicion of unspecified charges.

Traci Walker was arrested on suspicion of drugs charges.

Jennifer Phelps was arrested on suspicion of drugs charges.

Alex Camarena was arrested on suspicion of forgery including checks and/or access cards.

Eddie Ramos was arrested on suspicion of unspecified charges.

Jerry Martinez was arrested on suspicion of drunk in public.

Sept. 10
Silvia Gullen was arrested on suspicion of assault and battery.

Eusi Hunter was arrested on suspicion of petty theft.

Freddy Montoya was arrested on suspicion of drunk in public.

Marcos Ruiz was arrested on suspicion of marijuana charges.

Herbis Sauceda was arrested on suspicion of murder.

Erlinda Gauna was arrested on suspicion of drunk in public.

Kevin Statum was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Alan Venable was arrested on suspicion of selected traffic violations.

Sept. 9
Randy Rudman was arrested on suspicion of unspecified charges.

Willis Potter was arrested on suspicion of drugs charges.

Michael Malbrough was arrested on suspicion of drunk in public.

Ricardo Perez was arrested on suspicion of driving offenses.

Brandy Foster was arrested on suspicion of assault and battery.

Shelley Faulkner was arrested on suspicion of drugs charges.

Ashley Rose was arrested on suspicion of vehicular manslaughter.

Sept. 8
David Dunn was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Cassie Broadfoot was arrested on suspicion of narcotics charges.

Ronald Overturf was arrested on suspicion of assault and battery.

Carlos Moreno was arrested on suspicion of marijuana charges.

Felipe Delrio was arrested on suspicion of marijuana charges.

Sept. 7
Guillermo Abarca was arrested on suspicion of assault.

Jesus Gallo was arrested on suspicion of assault.

Martin Gonzalez was arrested on suspicion of motor vehicle theft.

Max Sena was arrested on suspicion of assault and battery.

Katrina Pizarro was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Sept. 6
Oscar Gonzalez was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Toros Krbekyan was arrested on suspicion of prostitution.

Harry Mischke was arrested on suspicion of sex crimes.

Alex Anaya was arrested on suspicion of prostitution.

Reed Sison was arrested on suspicion of drugs charges.

Tiffany Henning was arrested on suspicion of burglary.

Nicole Sears was arrested on suspicion of narcotics charges.

Sept. 5
Jarrod Lucas was arrested on suspicion of motor vehicle theft.

Colin Aden was arrested on suspicion of drugs charges.

Nicholas Czarnota was arrested on suspicion of unspecified charges.

James Fournier was arrested on suspicion of assault.

Karina Robinson was arrested on suspicion of assault.

Alex Quezada was arrested on suspicion of unspecified charges.

Janell Middleton was arrested on suspicion of drugs charges.

Stacy Thomas was arrested on suspicion of narcotics charges.

Ezequiel Ruiz was arrested on suspicion of burglary.

C. L. Anderson was arrested on suspicion of drugs charges.

By Pat Orr
Apple Valley Review

The phrase as worded in this column’s headline should probably be the Victor Valley motto. If it wasn’t for land speculators and developers, there wouldn’t be a Victorville, Hesperia or Apple Valley.

For an update on how your dirt is doing, come on over to the Apple Valley Chamber of Commerce Luncheon at 11:20 a.m. Wednesday at the Golf Course. Local land guru and AV Planning Commissioner Jason Lamoreaux will regale the group with a current update on real estate in our area.

While the future looks rosy — if you look far enough out — the dark clouds on the horizon are water and waste. We have too little of one and too much of the other.

The mere hint of a sewer moratorium will kill any interest in the valley from developers for years to come.

Putting drinking water on parks and lawns is another threat to securing water for future growth. The fact that no one can seem to get all the local cities on the same page at the same time regarding water reclamation projects could be an arrow through the heart of future land deals locally.

Come on over and hear what Jason has to say about it all. Leave your checkbook at home — he is a salesman, after all.

Predicting the future
Here are a few prognostications you can stick in a drawer for a few years and pull out to laugh — or cry — over.

2016 — The term “unemployment” has been banned for use and is to be replaced with the more appropriate term, “currently not receiving their fair share of benefits.”

2017 — As the city of San Bernardino emerges from bankruptcy, the Council announces city offices will relocate to the Denny’s off Interstate 215 at University Avenue and be open on alternate Tuesdays from lunch until 4 p.m. City retirees get coffee at half price.

2018 — John Chiang runs for California governor. He will be elected State Controller in 2014, then wait for Jerry to kick the bucket and Assistant Gov. Noose’em to self destruct — but he’ll run.

2018 — Assemblyman Miztelfelt steps up to run for Paul Cook’s Congressional seat when Cook retires after three terms.

2018 — After sweeping the mid-term elections, new Democratic Speaker of the House, 83-year-old Nancy Pelosi declares the Affordable Care Act was a mistake and she will fight to get the votes to pass President Hillary’s single payer National Health Care Act.

A 12 hour audio CD is available to members for review. Congress is now paperless.

2020 — The initiative to combine Apple Valley, Hesperia and Victorville into the new City of Cloverdale (three-leaf clover — get it?) passes with 68-percent yes votes as locals declare their desire for consolidation to reduce costs. Irishmen vote yes by a wide margin, totally missing the point but loving the new city logo.

2022 — The IRS and the INS announce joint operations to stop all individuals who make more than $39,000 a year from leaving the United States. According to IRS Chief Jesse Jackson III, “We should have done this 10 years ago. We can’t let rich people take our tax money and run.”

Pat Orr is a local business owner, community volunteer and political junkie.

From Staff Reports

Artists are encouraged to participate in a new art contest hosted by Apple Valley Animal Services in conjunction with their 8th Annual Paws N’ Claws Pet Fair.

Entries must be animal themed, original artwork and are limited to the first 15 entries per category including:
• Art — pencil, watercolor, oil, other;
• Jewelry — handmade only;
• Photography — black and white or color;
• Needle craft — crochet, quilting, knitting;
• Green/natural — wood, metal, rock, recycled material.

Submissions must be accompanied by a $10 entry fee and will be accepted at the Paws N’ Claws Pet Fair at Civic Center Park on Saturday between 10 and 11 a.m. Voting will continue until 2 p.m. Winners will be announced at 2:45 p.m. First, second and third place prizes will be awarded for each category.

This children’s play area will also feature a coloring and drawing contest for $1 per entry. Entry fees for all contests and activities will support adoption and spay/neuter programs for shelter animals. Parking and admission to the pet fair are free.

For more information visit www.AVAnimals.org or call 760-240-7000, ext. 7555.