HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS In local high school sports, The Yucca Valley High School Girls Soccer team traveled to Ontario for the Ontario Christian Christmas Classic and returned with a 2-2 record. The Lady Trojans fought hard against the CIF 4th ranked Ontario Christian and Division 4 Calvary Chapel Santa Ana and came away with victories against Division 4 members Wilson and Whittier Christian high schools respectively. The highlight of the tournament was the girls strong play against Whittier…

The southern side of Joshua Tree National Park offers a dramatic contrast to our Mojave Desert setting. Ranger Pat Pilcher opens our eyes to the gateway to that area... Years ago, Cottonwood Spring was an important rest stop for travelers. For miles around this was the only dependable water source, and was a welcome sight to those passing through the desert. Though underground fault movement has decreased the water table, this southern portion of Joshua Tree National Park is still a wondrous…

A new California law that has been widely reported is one that requires that the contributions of gays and lesbians be taught in public schools. Not so well known is a list of other new laws that collectively normalize the position in society of LGBT individuals. These include: The California Gay Bullying Law (or Seth's Law) which requires school districts to have a uniform process for dealing with gay bullying complaints, and mandates that school personnel intervene if they witness gay…

The Soroptimist International Club of Twentynine Palms is sponsoring the opening night of the Neil Simon Play "Jake's Women" at Theater 29 on Friday, January 13. Doors open at 6 p.m. with the play starting at 7 p.m. There'll be a silent auction and heavy hors d'oeuvres, with wine and champagne from 6 p.m. until 7 p.m., with desserts and coffee during intermission. All proceeds will benefit our scholarships and charities. Tickets are $25 per person and can be purchased…

With all the recent fatal collisions on area highways, the Start Smart class offered by the California Highway Patrol, is especially important for teens and new drivers. The next Start Smart class will be Tuesday, January 3, from 6:30 to 8 at its Morongo Basin office, 63683 29 Palms Highway in Joshua Tree. California has the second highest fatality rate involving teen drivers. Start Smart speaks directly to the teen drivers and their parents/guardians. This program provides classroom instruction…