Z107.7 FM Up Close Show hosted by Gary Daigneault: Recent Episodes
Gary Daigneault
The Z107.7 FM Up Close Show is a weekly forum to discuss issues important to residents of the Morongo Basin. To join the discussion, call 760-366-8471. Tune in to Up Close Friday mornings from 10 to 11 a.m. with your host Gary Daigneault. KCDZ 107.7 FM, Your Community Radio Station. Look for our Podcast online at z1077fm.com or wherever you get your podcasts.
John Cole has a long resume here in the Morongo Basin - Twentynine Palms Councilman, Former Twentynine Palms Principal, Former Twentynine Palms Mayor and more.
Listen for his perspective on changes to the area, the education system, and some big changes coming to Twentynine Palms High School.
Professional rattlesnake wrangler Danielle Wall has made a name for herself around the high desert as the go to person to call when a rattlesnake ends up where we'd rather they didn't. Host Gary Daigneault and Danielle Wall discuss the different types of rattlers that live in the Mojave, common snake misconceptions, and how Danielle got her start relocating some of the the Mojave Desert's most misunderstood residents.
Thomas will talk about how an expungement works and who is eligible, he also talks about his office and how it works in the criminal Justice system.
Rick talks with us about the important work they do at the Palms and Paws Animal shelter and tips for keeping your furry friends happy and healthy.
Jeff and Jennifer answers your questions and talks with us about power grid updates, the start of extreme heat season, and both planned/unplanned power outages.
Christina gives us a close look at the issue of the proposed listing of the western Joshua tree as threatened. Sanchez has been active in the issue from the beginning and is also involved in the Mojave Preserve/Cima Dome reseeding project.
Jeffrey talks with us about how Edison has stepped up their local efforts, doing crucial grid work to strengthen and enhance the resiliency of our electrical system.
In this episode, Gary talks with callers about their comments and concerns, opening the invitation to anyone in the community who wishes to voice their opinion. This episode focuses on the political climate of our nation and our community.
Documentarian Casey Kiernan and native plant specialist Christina Sanchez
talk with us about the proposed listing of the western Joshua tree as "Threatened" or "Endangered". Kiernan is working on the documentary film “I Thought They Were Protected” and Sanchez is a noted speaker on the “90 Miles from Needles” western Joshua tree podcast.
Jeff Hafler, founder and owner of the Beauty Bubble Salon and Museum, and Cheryl Bookout, director and producer of the film “Inside the Beauty Bubble" talk with us about the history, founding, and ever-evolving salon.
Gary takes your calls and talks with us about how to tell the difference between misinformation, disinformation, and how to protect yourself.
Gary takes your calls and talks with us about local development in Wonder Valley and Morongo Valley, as well as short-term vacation rentals, and the surge of new residents in our area.
West’s public sector career spans more than three decades. She is a professional geologist certified in water distribution and treatment and serves as the chair of the Mojave Water Agency Technical Advisory Committee and vice chair of the California Water Systems Alliance. She talks with us about water and the effects of illegal Marijuana grows.
Terry and Marie talk with us about their fascinating past, what is going on now, and what is planned for the future at the Joshua Tree Retreat Center, formally the Institute of Mentalphysics.
Les and Pat guide us in a close look at the Native American, mining, ranching, and military influences on early development in 29 Palms.
Jim talks with us about the challenges and promises for the town of Yucca Valley and takes live calls from constituents.
Jim Brakebill, the acting General Manager of the Morongo Valley Community Services District and Fire Chief of the Morongo Valley Fire Department, talks with us about a rocky year in 2021 and severe staffing shortages. He also shares the current state of the department.
Ray talks with us about how he worked his way through the ranks and was named General Manager in 2015. He also shares with us the history, magnitude, and challenges for the Twentynine Palms Water District.
Karmolette talks with us about her background, her time in the Morongo Basin, and her passion to keep the City of 29Palms blossoming.
Jim talks with us about the challenges facing the rural areas and their collective needs (Flamingo Heights, Johnson Valley, Landers, and Yucca Mesa)
Wayne talks about homelessness in the Morongo Basin, what services are available, who is homeless and why, and what the community can do to help.
Sandy outlines the many support programs and educational opportunities supported by the non-profit foundation.
Robin talks with us about the variety of services Reach Out Morongo Basin offers, including transportation, hot meals, counseling, and socialization for seniors.
Captain Niles talks with us about violence in schools, the recent illegal marijuana growth raids, and strategies being used to keep crime down in our growing Morongo Basin communities.
Dusastre will talk with us about our efforts of the hospitality industry in 29 Palms to attract visitors. She also touches on how to provide accommodations for visitors, and feature destinations.
Dawn and Steve take questions about redistricting, short-term vacation rentals, and illegal marijuana grows in the high desert.
Gary talks with Eva Soltes of the Lou Harrison House in Joshua Tree. Soltes was a close associate of Lou Harrison, as well as a producer, director, and performer of over 40 years. She now leads the Harrison House and its programs.
Guests Bernard Leibov and Barbara Gothard talk with us about Boxohouse events this weekend featuring Gothard’s work inspired by the stories of early Black residents of 29 Palms.
Wanda talks with us about a strong economic future, betterment of the business community, challenges of Covid, and upcoming events for the town of Yucca Valley.
Lisa Lynn Morgan and Ray Rodriguez talks with us about the Joshua Tree Voice, a monthly periodical that celebrates our local culture, nature, and creative talents.
We talk with Mark Ban, Joshua Basin Water District General Manager. Mark takes questions live on the air and talks about the history, challenges, and successes of the agency that provides water for Joshua Tree.
Joshua Tree National Park Superintendent David Smith talks with us about adaptations to the park, trail maintenance, and animal ecology. Discussed further in depth are topics of fire, camping, and hiking safety. This educational morning-talk keeps us up to date about our national park and its near 300 miles of trails!
For camp ground reservations, visit recreation.gov
Our guest, Paul Peschel, the new general manager of the Hi-Desert Water District talks with us about water policy, conservation methods, system maintenance, etc. Paul also expands the conversation with specific details on rainfall, aquifers, and septic systems in relation to the legal system.
Guest Julian Pinder, the founder of the Pioneertown International Film Festival talks with us about the development and future of the festival. Julian also tells us about the effort in film restoration and celebrating Western film right here in the Morongo Basin!
This is Gary Daigneault. Join me this Friday (September 10) at 10 am as I talk with Sheriff’s Captain James Porter. In July of 2021, the Sheriff’s Department launched a new Division called the Community Service & Reentry Division. The Division aims to help residents successfully reenter our communities after their release from county jail. The this Division is a joint effort between the Sheriff’s Department and Cal State San Bernardino. Call-in live to ask Captain Porter about this unique new effort.
In Studio Guest Ryan Miller, the Brand Officer for Auto Camp. Ryan gives us the information on the new, Airstream based, luxury accommodations being readied right now on the North side of the Highway in Joshua Tree. Ryan tells us about the amenities, indoor and outdoor lounges and event spaces, curated food and beverages, a fully stocked store, and multi-levels of accommodations for up to 165 people.