Yucca Valley’s beloved Cactus Wren Book Exchange will be closing the last chapter of its two-decade long story on February 7th, where all books will be half-off in the meantime for its massive sale of stock. I spoke with the owners, Joe DesCoteaux and his wife Leanne Abbott, about their 22-year legacy, their feelings about their building being sold, and what they plan to do after their doors close for good. Twenty-two years ago in September of 2001, husband and wife Joe DesCoteaux and Leanne…

Last night’s MUSD meeting began by honoring Sandra Rayburn, who received a certificate of appreciation for her exemplary work in nutritional services at various MUSD sites through the years. Public Information Officer Tracy Sheldon gave a report on The Great Kindness Challenge launching this week at MUSD, “to enable schools and communities to be kinder, safer, healthier, and more inclusive places to live, work, learn and play.” Sponsored by the by the non-profit Kids for Peace, this global…

For tonight’s MUSD meeting agenda, action items include: a request to authorize the district to “piggyback” on other public agency contracts to save time and provide lower pricing than a single agency; a request to approve Resolution 23-09 which increases Federal Micro-Purchase Threshold to $50,000; a request to approve and adopt Proposed Budget Calendar for 2023; and a request to approve tentative agreement between MUSD and California School Employees Associations and its Chapter 29.