Coachella Valley Weekly - January 11 to January 17, 2018 Vol. 6 No. 43

coachellavalleyweekly.com • January 11 to January 17, 2018 Vol. 6 No. 43

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January 11 to January 17, 2018

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January 11 to January 17, 2018

THE 11TH ANNUAL DESERT WOMAN’S SHOW Coachella Valley Weekly (760) 501-6228

publisher@coachellavalleyweekly.com coachellavalleyweekly.com facebook.com/cvweekly twitter.com/cvweekly1 Publisher & Editor Tracy Dietlin Art Director Robert Chance Sales Team Domingo Winstead Club Crawler Nightlife Editor Phil Lacombe Feature Writers Lisa Morgan, Rich Henrich, Heidi Simmons, Denise Ortuno Neil, Morgan James, Avery Wood, Tricia Witkower Writers/Contributors: Robin Simmons, Rick Riozza, Eleni P. Austin, Noe Gutierrez, Craig Michaels, Bronwyn Ison, Janet McAfee, Haddon Libby, Dale Gribow, Laura Hunt Little, Jason Hall, Raymond Bill, Sam DiGiovanna, Rob Brezny, Sunny Simon, Dr. Peter Kadile, Bruce Cathcart, Flint Wheeler, Dee Jae Cox, Patte Purcell, Rebecca Pikus, Esther Sanchez, Angela Romeo, Jenny Wallis Photographers Robert Chance, Chris Miller, Esther Sanchez, Laura Hunt Little, Lani Garfield, Scott Pam, George Duchannes Website Editor Bobby Taffolla Distribution Phil Lacombe, William Westley

CONTENTS

Desert Women's Show ......................... 3 Desert Women's Show Schedule......... 5 PSIFF-Secrest History of Hollywood... 6 PSIFF - Last Minute Picks..................... 6 PSIFF - Directors To Watch................... 7 Poetry Contest...................................... 7 Desert Monuments.......................... 8-9 Palm Springs MLK Day Celebration... 10 Neave Trio.......................................... 10 Eddie Money & Starship at Fantasy... 11 Backstage Jazz................................... 11 Swing N' Hops.................................... 12 Indian Wells Music Festival............... 12 CV Music Showcase - Round 2.......... 13 Consider This - Margo Price.............. 14 Art Scene - Robin Przybysz................ 15 Pet Place............................................. 16 The Vino Voice .................................... 17 Club Crawler Nightlife.................. 18-19 Pampered Palate-Jem Steakhouse... 20 Screeners ............................................ 22 Book Review ....................................... 23 Safety Tips .......................................... 23 Good Grub - The Beer Hunter........... 25 Real Estate.......................................... 25 Haddon Libby.................................... 26 Dale Gribow....................................... 26 New Feminist Gaze............................ 27 License To Live Large......................... 27 Organic Solutions of the Desert....... 28 Cannabis DUI..................................... 29 Sports Scene...................................... 30 Eldorado Polo Club............................ 30 Free Will Astrology............................. 31 Mind, Body & Spirit............................ 31 Ask The Doctor.................................... 32 Life & Career Coach............................ 32 Cannabis Dispensary Directory........ 34

SHARON WHITELEY

AUTHOR OF BAREFOOT WISDOM

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anuary 13-14, 2018 marks the 11th anniversary of the DESERT WOMAN’S SHOW at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa in Rancho Mirage! The lucky first 500 ladies who register online can get their general admission ticket for FREE courtesy of long time sponsor Desert Regional Medical Center.

Attended by thousands of guests the Expo offers fashion shows from Pete Carlson’s Golf & Tennis, Mares Menswear of El Paseo and Gaby L’s Boutique on Saturday while Sunday offers our ladies the opportunity to wrestle a glass of wine and a paint brush with PAINT SIP & INSPIRE on El Paseo. Plan your day and take in a Yoga Class, listen to featured guest speakers and authors, enjoy cooking demonstrations and take advantage of the free medical screenings.

Sunday be sure to join Master Chef

season 7 winner, Shaun O’Neale at 3:00 pm for an exclusive Chef Demo of his tasty Spicy Salmon Crudo, followed by Q & A and cookbook signing. Having the honor to cook for and learn from true masters in the culinary world like Gordon Ramsay, Christina Tosi, Wolfgang Puck, Daniel Boulud, Richard Blais, Aaron Sanchez, Edward Lee and Kevin Sbraga has only intensified Shaun’s passion in the kitchen.

Shopping shopping shopping! Over 50 vendors showcase everything from fashions, jewelry, skincare, cosmetics, medical experts, fitness trainers and even unique kitchen designs.

The ever-popular Taste of the Valley held on the event lawn from 11:30 am – 2:30 pm each day offers attendees a cornucopia of tasty food, wine, craft beer, spirits and live music. Tasting vendors include Haus of Poke, Waters Cafe at Agua Caliente Casino, Joshua Tree Brewery, California Pizza Kitchen, Trio, Brandini Toffee, Big Rock Pub, Bellatrix, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Beyond Balisage, Panera Bread, Araceli Liqueur, Hangar 24 Brewery, Quintessential Wines, Roy’s Hawaiian Fusion, Fresh Juice Bar, Wildest Greens, Buzz Box, Di Stefano Cheese, Maddelena Wines and more!

General admission tickets are available online for free, while supplies last, or can be purchased for $10 in advance or $15 at the door.

SHAUN O’NEALE

MASTER CHEF SEASON 7 WINNER

DR. NICOLE ORTIZ, NMD

DOCTOR OF NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE

Taste of the Valley food and wine sampling area is a separate ticket (for those 21 years and older) at $15 in advance online or $20 per person at the door.

The 11th annual Desert Woman’s Show is sponsored by DESERT VEIN & VASCULAR INSTITUTE, DESERT REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER, CLARK’S NUTRITION and GYMGUYZ. Charities participating this year include SafeHouse of the Desert, Women Leaders Forum, The Unforgettables Foundation, Loving All Animals and American Heart Association.

For more information visit www.

DesertWomansShow.com or call Diana Marlo at 760-902-9532 or email Diana@ MarloProductions.com.

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January 11 to January 17, 2018

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January 11 to January 17, 2018

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January 11 to January 17, 2018

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PSIFF: SCOTTY AND THE SECRET HISTORY OF HOLLYWOOD

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alm Springs has always had a close connection with Hollywood – it still does. The history of our desert is filled with fascinating tales and rumors of how the rich and famous relaxed poolside with friends and lovers.

The 29th Annual Palm Springs International Film Festival will host GAY!LA with the screening of Scotty and the Secret History of Hollywood.

This documentary features Scotty Bowers, who as a young man settled in Los Angeles after serving as a Marine in World War II. A former mid-westerner, Bowers work at the corner of Hollywood and Van Ness as a gas station attendant, where he stumbled into a career satisfying the sexual desires of some of the most famous people, men and women, in Hollywood.

Based on Bowers’ 2012 memoir Full Service, the film dishes out not only the tawdry details of a pimp to the stars, but

also some of the sensational history of old Hollywood.

Bowers grew a reputation for setting stars up with sexual partners or sleeping with them himself - all from his Hollywood Boulevard gas station.

Some of Bowers’ incredible claims

PSIFF: LAST MINUTE PICKS

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f you’re thinking it’s too late to find movies to enjoy at the Palm Springs International film festival, it’s not.

Here’s a six-pack sampler of worthy films that are scheduled to screen on or after January 11! Confirm availability at the box office at the designated venue and don’t be shy about stand-by. Who knows whom you might meet in line? Seasoned fest goers are some of the friendliest and most interesting people with whom you already have something in common.

about Julia, his seventy-something mother, who achieved the eccentric dream of the film’s title. But now she’s leaving the castle and her flamboyantly dysfunctional family comes together for one last hurrah. Don’t miss this this wonderful portrait of an unforgettable woman. Spain. (2017) Friday, January 12, 4pm, Mary Pickford.

THE AQUARIANS Micheal M. McGuire’s smart, introspective and compelling drama is about two brothers, unable to process their pain over a family tragedy, who reluctantly reunite when Danny, now a seminary student, returns to their frozen Wisconsin hometown and connects with Jake, his reclusive brother who lives in a ratty trailer at the edge of town and sells dope to locals.

The two men, who have not spoken to each other in years, must now find a way to deal with their grief and guilt in order to move on with their lives. Thursday, January 11, 8:30 pm, Regal. Also: Saturday, January 13, 11am, Regal.

LOTS OF KIDS, A MONKEY AND A CASTLE From first-time filmmaker and Spanish actor Gustav Salmerón, comes this absorbing and hysterical documentary

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MR. FISH: CARTOONING FROM THE DEEP END Pablo Bryant’s incisive documentary explores the tumultuous career of controversial political cartoonist Mr. Fish. Meet the complex man behind the incendiary, deadly serious images as he wrestles with whether or not to compromise his subversive, defiant style in favor of mainstream acceptance. Another terrific film about art and why it matters.

BY HEIDI SIMMONS

include introducing Katharine Hepburn to 150 women over the course of 50 years and arranging a three-way with Hepburn, Cary Grant and Randolph Scott. And this is just the tip of the iceberg.

Oh the good old days of Hollywood!

Bowers is now in his mid 90s and a producer on the film. He lives in the Hollywood Hills with his wife Lois who distances herself from his claims.

This will be a fun event especially for those who love Hollywood’s Golden Age and enjoy imagining just how much of a playground and safe haven Palm Springs was to its numerous movie stars, residents and celebrity visitors.

Scotty and the Secret History of Hollywood screens Thursday, January 11 at 7:00pm and Friday, January 12 at 3:00pm at Palm Springs High School.

For more information and tickets www. psfilfest.org or call 800-898-PALM

BY ROBIN E. SIMMONS Thursday, January10, 1pm, Palm Canyon Theater. Also: Saturday, January 13, 7:30, Camelot.

SEX PITY AND LONELINESS The title may be a tad off-putting, but director Lars Montag’s dark satire about – you guessed it, sex, pity and loneliness -- interweaves stories of 13 contemporary German urbanites. It will trigger laughs, gasps and maybe even a bit of unsettling self-reflection about how we actually live.

Sunday, January 14, 1:30, Regal.

STEALING RODIN In 2005, when a famous sculpture briefly went missing from a Rodin retrospective at Santiago’s Fine Arts Museum, the “theft”

PSIFF

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turned out to be a provocative statement that sparked a lively debate on the nature of art itself. This fresh and surprisingly touching documentary from director Cristobal Valenzuela Berrios revisits the scene of the crime and the scandal that rocked Chilean society. Art matters. From Chile/France (2017). Saturday, January 13, 11am, Regal.

THE WORKSHOP Laurent Contet’s incredibly gripping film recounts what happens when celebrated thriller novelist and first-time teacher Olivia Dejazet (Marina Fois) arrives in La Ciotat on the Mediterranean coast to conduct a mystery writing workshop. Dejazet assumes it will be a place favorable to intellectual and creative freedom. But she quickly loses control when Antoine, her most vocal student shares a shocking short story about a fictionalized mass shooting erupts in a hostile culture clash and she’s drawn into a dark orbit with her controversial protégé.

Sunday, January 14, 10am, Annenberg.

On Sunday, January 14, be sure to check PSIFF.org for titles, time and place of Monday’s “Best of Fest” screenings. This popular event showcases the top movies festival attendees voted as their favorites.

This may be the only chance you will ever get to see some these fine movies on a big (or small) screen. robin@coachellavalleyweekly.com

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January 11 to January 17, 2018

PSIFF: “DIRECTORS TO WATCH” & “NEW VOICES NEW VISIONS” BODIED

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ith all the fun, and fascinating people, and exciting festival hubbub, there can be a gnawing anxiety that you might be missing a film that is life-changing, mind-bending or utterly magnificent.

There are 180 films from around the world in this 29th Annual Palm Springs International Film Festival, and even with over 430 plus screenings at six venues, you must calm yourself and relax, because it is not possible to see everything - although, there are people who have tried!

For hardcore cinephiles, it is easy to lose sleep when you consider there may never be another opportunity to see some of these foreign films ever again -- ever.

But, festival programmers and organizers understand this stress and work hard to sooth fest fan with a catalogue that will satiate the heart and stimulate the mind regardless if you see one or 101.

So, as movie buffs and film aficionados, sometimes the best we can do is make ourselves aware and take mental note of up-and-coming filmmakers and their current cinematic accomplishment.

TEN TO WATCH The Hollywood trade publication Variety chooses 10 directors to watch. Of the 10, three had films in the festival.

CUSTODY

Joseph Kahn, is Korean-American and his energetic film Bodied showed last week. It is his third feature film.

Formally a child actor in France, Xavier Legrand’s film Custody is his first feature, which was expanded from his Oscarnominated short film.

Israeli filmmaker, Samuel Maoz’s movie Foxtrot has been submitted for Oscar© consideration.

Although these films have already screened, they are filmmakers to keep in mind. And, there is still a chance one of the films could be in the “Best of Fest” program on Monday, January 15.

WOMEN DIRECTORS This year, four women made the Variety list that included Texan, Augustine Frizzell; California Girl, Greta Gerwig; Brittan’s Claire McCarthy; and Chinese born, Chloe Zhao.

This is significant because it’s rare to have 40 percent women on Variety’s list.

These women were chosen based on the quality of their work and future ambitions.

NEW VISIONS NEW VOICES This is a favorite PSIFF category. The festival prides itself on helping new

BY HEIDI SIMMONS

filmmakers, and those who win in this esteemed grouping become part of the PSIFF family.

These films celebrate unique viewpoints from first and second-time narrative feature directors.

There are 12 films from all over the world in New Visions New Voices. The good news is all the films listed below are screening throughout the remainder of the festival.

Angels Wear White, China/France -- US Premiere.

This is Vivian Ou’s second feature film.

Trap Street (2013) was her first. * Ava, France.

Filmmaker Léa Mysius has already won several awards for this, her debut film. * The Charmer, Denmark.

A debut feature by director Milad Alami.

The Gold Seekers, Paraguay -International Premiere.

Co-directed by Juan Carlos Maneglia and Tana Schémbori, this is their second film.

Their first was 7 Boxes (2012.)* Killing Jesus, Colombia/Argentina.

This is director Laura Mora’s second narrative film following Antes del fuego – Before the Fire (2015). She directed a documentary Código Origen – Source Code (2016.)* Mobile Homes, Canada/France.

Director Vladimir de Fontenay’s previous film is Memoria (2015.)

No Date, No Signature, Iran.

GRETA GERWIG

PSIFF

Vahid Jalilvand directed Wednesday, May 9 (2015.)

On Borrowed Time, the United Arab Emirates -- World Premiere.

This is director Yasir Al Yasiri’s first narrative film.

One Thousand Ropes, New Zealand.

Tusi Tamasese directed his first film The Orator (2011.)

Suleiman Mountain, Kyrgyzstan/Russia -- US Premiere.

Director Elizaveta Stishova debuts her first film. * Thoroughbreds, United States.

This is director Cory Finley first feature.

Three Peaks, Germany – US Premiere.

This is director Jan Zabeil’s second film.

His first film is The River Used to be a Man (2011.)

Palm Springs International Film Festival is a wonderful opportunity to see the world and experience its many cultures.

New Voices New Visions is an outstanding selection of films. It is comforting to know that the PSIFF is out there every year bringing film buffs the best global cinema has to offer and seeks to introduce us to the next generation of filmmakers.

It is impressive and exciting that this year over a third of the New Voices New Visions directors are women. * Go! Make an effort, and don’t worry what you might be missing, but relax and relish the moment. It is fantastic just to have such an impressive and thoughtful festival here in our beautiful desert.

If you are interested in being more in touch with global cinema, another great choice is to join the Palm Springs International Film Society; they are an active organization and the ones behind the festival.

For more film information and tickets go to www.psfilmfest.org or call 800 898PALM.

LOCAL DESERT TOWN HALL POETRY CONTEST TO HONOR CAROLINE KENNEDY EVENTS

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esert Town Hall, presented

by The H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation, is accepting submissions for a poetry contest in honor

of former Ambassador to Japan, Caroline Kennedy. Kennedy is the featured speaker on Thursday, March 8, at 6 p.m., at Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa

in Indian Wells.

Kennedy has edited 19 New York Times best-selling books, with many being anthologies of poetry, one of her

lifelong passions. This poetry contest is themed “Giving Back,” in honor of her diligent work and dedication to our country. Submitted poems will not only be read by Kennedy, but one poem will be selected as the winner who will be awarded two seats to attend her speech on March 8. In addition to the contest, Kennedy will receive a book including all of the submissions as a memento.

To enter the contest participants can submit the poem along with their name, phone number and a brief bio to info@ deserttownhall.org by March 1. The winner will be notified by phone.

For additional information about the speaker series or contest, visit www.

DesertTownHall.org or call (760) 6102852.

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January 11 to January 17, 2018

COMMUNITY

THE CALIFORNIA DESERT’S NEWEST NATIONAL MONUMENTS

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n April, 2017, President Trump signed an executive order instructing Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke to review all national monuments created by previous presidents through use of the Antiquities Act since January 1, 1996, that are at least 100,000 acres in size.

The review was immediately met with opposition from the outdoor recreation industry, Native American tribes, and conservation organizations. The legality of the president’s ability to undermine designations made by previous presidents was questioned, and the future of the 27 national monuments under review became uncertain. The review allowed for reduction in size, or even the elimination, of previously designated national monuments.

Recently, the Department of the Interior’s review of monuments concluded and decisions began to emerge. Grand Staircase Escalante, designated by President Clinton, was ordered to be reduced by 46 percent, while Bears Ears was reduced by 85 percent.

Other actions may follow.

But what about our new Sand to Snow, Mojave Trails, and Castle Mountains national monuments? To understand the factors that could play a role in the future of those monuments, we need to go back to the passage of Senator Dianne Feinstein’s 1994 California Desert Protection Act. The original CDPA created the base for the California deserts as we know them today.

They added land to Death Valley and Joshua Tree national monuments and redesignated them as national parks, and created the

Frazier Haney, Conservation Director for the Mojave Desert Land Trust

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BY STEVE BROWN

Mojave Desert. Photo by Steve Brown

Mojave National Preserve. It’s worth noting both Death Valley and Joshua Tree were originally designated as national monuments by presidents using the Antiquities Act. Many of the national parks we cherish today were created by presidents through the use of the Antiquities Act, dating back to Teddy Roosevelt’s designation of Petrified Forest National Monument in 1906.

In 2015, Feinstein introduced new legislation, the California Desert Conservation and Recreation Act, which included provisions for Sand to Snow and Mojave Trails monuments. Castle Mountains wasn’t included as a monument. Instead, it was included as an addition to the Mojave National Preserve. The legislation included other protections, much of which was to balance the growth of massive solar and wind power projects, as well as designation of four existing off-highway vehicle areas as permanent OHV recreation areas, ensuring their designation would be protected.

Frazier Haney, conservation director for the Mojave Desert Land Trust, picked up the story from the introduction of Feinstein’s latest desert bill, as well as Rep. Paul Cook’s version of the legislation for the House of Representatives.

“I know for the desert bill, it was pretty well balanced,” Haney said. “There was a lot of give and take in it. We’d all have been a lot better off if the legislation passed.”

“The time line of all that is important to keep in mind,” Haney continued. “He [Cook] had been doing his diligence and homework and trying to understand what Feinstein had proposed in her bill to create his own companion bill in the House that would be acceptable to members of his own party.”

Haney noted Cook’s proposed legislation didn’t arrive early in 2015 as planned, and when it finally did arrive that June, it omitted the Mojave Trails National Monument. It also allowed for 10 percent of the monument to be open for mining claims, but didn’t specify where claims would be allowed.

And, Haney noted, discussions about the use of the Antiquities Act to designate the new monuments had already begun.

“In August, Feinstein went to the president with a letter and said, ‘I’d like you to consider the monuments using the Antiquities Act and see if they fit the mold, and if you do that, please consider Black Lava Butte and Cadiz Valley and the Sacramento Mountains,’” Haney said.

Soon after the Obama administration

agreed to consider designating the monuments, Cook introduced his legislation in committee, Haney said. Cook noted with his legislation under consideration, the Antiquities Act could not be used by the president. “That October the Feinstein bill and the Cook bill got their hearings in their respective committees, but no action was taken. Nothing happened after that.”

Haney noted stakeholders who had an interest in parts of the desert legislation other than establishment of national monuments, may have felt left out when the monuments were designated while their interests languished. But, he explained, there’s still hope.

“You take the monuments out of the desert legislation and you’re left with some wilderness additions, minor boundary changes to parks, and OHV areas being added, and a couple other relatively small things,” Haney noted. “It’s a lot less controversial.

Feinstein, about a week after the monuments were designated, reintroduced her bill, sans monuments, and Cook reintroduced a bill after that, sans monuments, and those two bills line up almost exactly now.

“The main sticking point that is still left is how to handle groundwater extraction in the east Mojave, Haney noted. “Cook was silent on the issue. Feinstein’s legislation said any groundwater pumping have been shown by the U.S. Geological Survey to be sustainable.

“We expect they’ll reintroduce both bills this year and finally get it done. We feel like we made a commitment to the legislation, to the whole thing, so we’re still committed to it.”

But California’s three new desert monuments still aren’t safe yet.

Sand to Snow National Monument Sand to Snow was included on the DOI review list of monuments. After Interior’s review was concluded, Sand to Snow was declared safe. No boundary changes are expected. But, as Haney noted, it still faces challenges.

“Sand to Snow is out of any kind of jeopardy, like having its boundary redrawn, Haney said. “But there is no management plan for Sand to Snow. So we still need to be vigilant as to the way the management plan is enacted. If that happens in the next couple years under this administration, kind of under the shadow of the review of other monuments, we don’t know how that will impact things like vehicle routes versus cultural resources, or things like that.”

Haney noted most activities enjoyed on the public lands prior to designation as a monument often are allowed to continue under the new monument’s management plan, but sometimes potential changes might be beneficial.

“It [the management plan] would come into play at a place like Black Lava Butte [in Sand to Snow], he said. “There are a lot of vehicle trails that run through the butte, and there’s also a great deal of sensitive cultural resources. There could be a conflict between those two things. The management plan should work that out.”

Haney added with Interior’s review of national monuments, the most recently designated monuments have not gone forward with creation of their management plans.

“We expected the BLM would issue their notice of intent to prepare a management plan last year, but because of the review, they put all of the management planning on hold,” Haney said.

Mojave Trails National Monument “That’s more in limbo,” Haney said of Mojave Trails. “While it was on the review list, it wasn’t taken off the review list, but it also just didn’t appear in the Secretary of Interior’s memo to the Trump administration.

So, they haven’t come forward and said

Sand To Snow National Monument. Photo Coutesy of Bureau Of Land Management

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Mojave Trails National Monument. Photo by Steve Brown

it’s safe, we’ve determined no changes are necessary, it was just kind of the silent treatment on Mojave Trails.”

Issues that could arise in Mojave Trails include minor adjustments for easement to a mine, and several thousand acres of unpatented mining claims. Inclusion of the unpatented claims in the monument means there is a more difficult process that must be followed to patent and mine them.

“A lot of people, like Feinstein’s office, were actively trying to resolve those conflicts” Haney explained. “There were accommodations made, but it looks like for whatever reason, a couple of them were missed.

“Nobody’s intent was to shut down an operating mine,” Haney said about the easement, while for the unpatented claims, he noted new restrictions constituted an unintended “higher bar.”

He added, “That was never the intent. If there could be a congressional fix for that, I don’t think there would be much of an argument about that.”

Another threat to Mojave Trails is Cook’s position, made clear during the review, that advocated returning the monument’s size back to that proposed in Feinstein’s 2015 legislation.

“In the letter he says this is the original legislative boundary, that this wasn’t included in the legislation that was vetted originally, Feinstein’s legislation, that this was an addition by the administration when this was done through the Antiquities Act. And he’s right,” Haney noted. But, he added, if you go far enough back, the original proposal for Mojave Trails extended all the way to the Colorado River.

There is speculation Cook’s intent for

reducing the size of Mojave Trails could be to allow the construction of a pipeline from the Cadiz Water Project. It is unclear how, or if, monument designation would impact pipeline construction, Haney noted, while adding the area Cook would remove continues to face threats that at one time included the possibility of creation of a storage site for spent nuclear fuel rods.

Castle Mountains National Monument “Castle is hard to talk about because we don’t really know what’s going on,” Haney said. Because of its small size, it wasn’t included on the original review list.

One point of possible contention is over hunting. Castle Mountains is managed by the National Park Service’s Mojave National Preserve, and hunting is allowed in the preserve. With the original plan to include Castle Mountains as part of the preserve, it would have been likely hunting would be included there as well. But with no management plan in place yet, there’s the potential for other outcomes.

“It was never anybody’s intention to have hunting taken off the table,” Haney said.

“We’re hoping the NPS could find a way to have them both managed the same way.”

What may prove to be a more serious threat comes from mining operations on lands within the new monument. The Castle Mountain heap leach (open pit) gold mine produced over one million ounces of gold between 1992 and 2004, according to Equinox Gold, the new firm planning to restart production.

“The mining company [then, NewCastle Gold], the day after the declaration they had a press release to their investors and said, hey, we were pleased with the process and we feel the monument won’t have impacted

Castle Mountains National Monument. Photo by David Lamfrom, NPCA

our mining operation here. But then they got a new CEO and other new staff. The new CEO sent a scathing letter in to the Department of the Interior during this review process. They wanted to get rid of more than half of the monument.”

Haney noted the company’s concerns also showed up in a letter from Cook to Zinke.

“It is in real danger of becoming a political football,” Haney said. “In the environment of people trying to find reasons to hate the Antiquities Act, I think there are certain members of Congress who would like to use that as Exhibit A.” Cook and Interior have said there weren’t adequate public hearings on the establishment of Castle Mountains. That’s not what Chris Clarke, California Desert program manager for the National Parks Conservation Association recalled.

“That’s completely fallacious in the case of Castle Mountains,” Clarke said. “The public did not have hearings about it becoming Castle Mountains National Monument, the public had hearings about it being added to the Mojave National Preserve. There was in excess of a decade of discussion, public meetings, public arguments, arguments in the op-ed pages, etc., over the entire California Desert Protection Act in its various forms, and the Castle Mountains area and the protecting of that area was discussed abundantly. Interior’s argument there is misleading and mistaken both.”

There has been no new announcement from Interior as to the fate of Castle Mountains. But in the past few days, new legislation has been fast-track introduced in Congress that would allow presidents to eliminate national monuments pretty much at will.

“The thing is, once you undermine the Antiquities Act, it’s undermined for all the national monuments it’s been used to establish,” noted Clarke. “In the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976, Congress specifically reserved the right to itself to amend, downsize, or abolish national monuments as part of the Antiquities Act process. They specifically said that’s a congressional prerogative, not something the executive branch can do. The executive branch is doing it, and we are not the only organization suing them over it.

Indeed they are not. At least 10 organizations and a coalition of Native America tribes are suing the federal government over the reductions ordered by the Trump administration.

“We’re pretty confident about our hearing in the courts,” Clarke said, and added there is plenty of case law behind the NPCA’s position. “But it’s a troubling precedent to set. The whole point of the Antiquities Act is to preserve important cultural, natural, scientific, historic, etc., features of the landscape. If somebody can come by and say they disagree something is culturally important or historic enough to protect it from things like oil drilling or water mining or whatever, that’s very troubling.

“So we remain on watch for the California desert national monuments,” Clarke concluded. “It’s absolutely imperative we

January 11 to January 17, 2018 don’t let our guard down. If they can cut Bears Ears by 80 percent, they can chop the Cadiz Valley out of Mojave Trails. We have it here, we’ve got it, we need to protect it.”

-------------------------------------------------Mojave Trails National Monument Size: 1.6 million acres, 350,000 acres existing Wilderness Established: February 12, 2016, President Obama Reasons to protect: Historic resources including Native American trading routes, World War II-era training camp sites, and the longest remaining undeveloped stretch of Route 66. The area has long been a focus of research and study, including geological research and ecological studies.

Points of interest: Route 66, Amboy Crater, Afton Canyon, Cadiz Dunes, Desert Training Center (World War II training camps), Mojave Road/Old Spanish Trail, Marble Mountains trilobite fossil beds, Sleeping Beauty Valley (last intact valley of West Mojave plant ecosystem), Mojave River, Ragtown Historic Mining Area.

Recreational opportunities: 4WD roads, hiking, birding, camping, mining areas, historical sites, night skies.

---------------------------------------------------Castle Mountains National Monument Size: 20,920 acres Established: February 12, 2016, President Obama Reasons to protect: Botanical diversity, habitat linkage, Joshua tree forest lands, rare native grasses, potential to reintroduce pronghorn, aquifer protection, historic resources, Native American cultural resources and sacred sites.

Points of interest: Mojave Road/Old Spanish Trail, Castle Mountains, Native American sites, Hart (ghost town), Spirit Mountain (sacred to area tribes), Joshua tree forest.

Recreational opportunities: 4WD roads (there are no paved roads within the monument), historic roads, back country camping, hiking, wildlife viewing.

---------------------------------------------------Sand to Snow National Monument Size: 154,000 acres, 100,000 acres existing Wilderness Established: February 12, 2016, President Obama Reasons to protect: Ecological and cultural treasure, one of the most biodiverse areas in southern California with more than 240 species of birds and 12 threatened and endangered species of wildlife. Home to region’s tallest alpine mountain that rises from the Sonoran (Colorado) Desert. Home to Native American sacred, archaeological, and cultural sites, including 1,700 petroglyphs.

Points of interest: Big Morongo Canyon Preserve, Pacific Crest Trail, San Gorgonio Peak and Wilderness, Whitewater Preserve, Mission Creek Preserve, Black Lava Butte, headwaters of Whitewater River and Santa Ana River, “Nine Peaks Challenge.”

Recreational opportunities: Hiking, birding, hunting, camping, backpacking, wildlife viewing, photography, horseback riding, showshoeing, cross-country skiing.

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January 11 to January 17, 2018

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS EVENTS CELEBRATES DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING. JR.

AFRICAN AMERICAN HEROES TIMOTHY BRADLEY, JR. AND FRED “THE HAMMER” WILLIAMSON TO HEADLINE SPECIAL JAN. 14 CELEBRATION COMMEMORATING SLAIN CIVIL RIGHTS LEADER DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.

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he entire Palm Springs community is invited to join City leaders, members of the Public Arts Commission and the City’s Dr. Martin Luther King. Jr. Commemoration Committee as they join together to pay tribute to the accomplishments of the slain civil rights leader at a special commemoration celebration on Sunday, Jan. 14.

The 2 p.m. celebration will be held at Church of St. Paul in the Desert, 125 W. El Alameda. Keynote speakers will include world champion boxer and local resident Timothy Bradley, Jr., football legend, actor and local resident Fred “The Hammer” Williamson along with Reverend Keyphyan Sheppard and Zjarvre Crawford, President of the Palm Springs High School Associated Student Body.

Local singing artist Keisha D will also perform.

In addition, the Public Arts Commission will present its annual “Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Excellence in Arts Awards” to students at Palm Springs High School.

The students were asked to submit

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artwork in the medium of their choosing and convey through creative expression, the positive impact Dr. King’s life has had in present day America when it comes to realizing a more equitable society. The exhibition will be on display at the church during a special reception, sponsored by Spencer’s Restaurant. Everyone is invited to attend.

A special exhibit featuring the student art, presented by the Palm Springs Public Arts Commission, will run Jan. 16 – Feb. 28 at the Palm Springs Public Library, 300 S. Sunrise Way. “The City of Palm Springs is proud to invite the entire Coachella Valley community to this very special celebration of Dr. King’s extraordinary accomplishments,” said Jarvis Crawford, who chairs the City’s Commemoration Committee.

“With incredible role models like Tim Bradley, Jr. and Fred Williamson speaking, it’s sure to be an inspiring day for everyone.”

NEAVE TRIO

EVENTS

TO PERFORM IN PALM SPRINGS, CA ON JANUARY 29, 2018

LIVE ON STAGE, INC. AND PS CONCERTS ANNOUNCE INTERNATIONAL PIANO TRIO AS PART OF THEIR 2017 - 2018 CONCERT SEASON

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ailed by critics for their “heart-onsleeve performances” (Classical New Jersey), the Neave Trio will be coming to Richards Center for the Arts at Palm Springs High School on Monday, January 29, 2018 at 7:30 p.m. “...exceeded the gold standard…” – Fanfare Magazine One of the finest emerging young chamber ensembles, the Neave Trio has been enjoying tremendous international success as part of concert series’ and at festivals worldwide. In the US, the trio has appeared in prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall, Jordan Hall (Boston), Lincoln Center, and countless others. Hailing from the US, Japan and Russia, the Neave Trio is fast distinguishing itself as an ambassador of music, and seeks to create new pathways for classical music to engage a wider, more diverse audience. Their performances feature stunning arrangements of timeless classics, written specifically for the piano, violin and cello.

PS Concerts has been bringing nationally acclaimed artists to the community since 1958. This all-volunteer nonprofit organization is committed to enriching the cultural life of Palm Springs through live performances. Thanks to the generosity of Patrons and Sponsors, these concerts

can be offered at affordable, family friendly prices.

Live On Stage, Inc. provides excellent, affordable, entertainment attractions and support services to an American community of concert presenters.

Single tickets for this event are $20.

Season tickets to PS Concerts’ 2017-2018 series are now available. For tickets or information please call 760-770-0774 or visit the association’s website at www. psconcerts.org.

EVENTS

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January 11 to January 17, 2018

BACKSTAGE JAZZ

BY PATTE PURCELL

CLASSIC ROCK GIANTS EDDIE MONEY A 420 JAZZ SOIREE AND STARSHIP FEATURING MICKEY THOMAS TEAM UP FOR ONE NIGHT AT FANTASY SPRINGS IN MARCH I

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lassic rock giants Eddie Money and Starship featuring Mickey Thomas are teaming up to celebrate decades of hits on Friday, March 2, 2018 at The Special Events Center at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino.

After over 40 years of hits, Eddie Money continues to thrill new and old fans alike across the country. He burst onto the scene in 1977 with his debut album that went double platinum with hits like “Baby Hold On” and “Two Tickets to Paradise.”

The former New York City police officer continued his success streak with several hits, including some of the era’s most creative videos for songs like “Think I’m in Love” and “Shakin’.”

In 1986, Money released the platinumcertified album “Can’t Hold Back,” which features the Grammy-nominated duet “Take Me Home Tonight” with Ronnie Spector.

Mickey Thomas is considered one of rock music’s most recognizable stars. He first made his mark in 1976 with The Elvin Bishop Band and the hit “Fooled Around and Fell in Love” before joining Jefferson Starship in 1979. The group immediately scored a No. 1 hit with “Jane.”

With Thomas’ soaring voice, the group renamed itself Starship and released a string of hits, including “No Way Out,” “We Built This City,” “Sara” and the Oscar-nominated hit “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now” from

the movie Mannequin. Other hits include “It’s Not Over Till It’s Over,” which became Major League Baseball’s theme in 1987.

Every album released by the group has gone gold, platinum and multiplatinum.

Tickets for the 8pm Eddie Money & Starship featuring Mickey Thomas show on Friday, March 2, 2018 go on sale Friday, January 5, 2018 for $59, $49 and $39 at the Fantasy Springs Box Office, via telephone (800) 827-2946 or online at www.

FantasySpringsResort.com.

t has been my pleasure to produce unique smooth jazz events for the last 7 years in the desert. We’ve had the privilege of building a great list of guests who are 45 plus, sophisticated and fun. Last January we took a turn in a new direction with “Jazz at the Mansion” a 420 friendly party. It was a smashing success. Over the last year we held private industry parties at art galleries and more. 2017 was a great year.

In 2018 we are stepping it up to a new level with a ‘mini festival’ with 3 National acts in 3 separate areas. We are holding this private industry event at Venus de Fido in Palm Desert on Monday Jan. 22, from 4:20 to 7:20.

As you walk in the door you are greeted with a huge marble foyer where famed international blusion recording and performing artist Deanna Bogart will be performing at the Grand piano in her boogie woogie style. Deanna is a multiple national blues award winner and travels the globe performing at festivals and cruises. She will knock your socks off.

As a Palm Desert resident Deanna has graciously agreed to perform for us. She is also an amazing performer on saxophone as well.

She also plays a mean guitar just to round it out.

Deanna will get your heart pumping and has a few surprises in store for you with some guest Jammers.

As you walk further into the event you will hear the smooth jazz and funky stylings of national recording artist Rick Parma and his band. There are tables (open seating) and a dance floor. So wear comfortable shoes.

Rick plays the sax and sings. His band brings it and is one of the best dance jazz bands in the business. Rick will be joined by some of our local favorites as guest performers including Michael D’Angelo, Alex Santana, Khea Emmanuel, Cat Lyn Day and Kelly Mc Daniel, just to put the icing on the cake. Get ready to party!

As you get a little further you will find a sponsors room with some of the best medical marijuana products on the market. If you are a licensed medical marijuana patient with a doctor’s recommendation you will receive complimentary samples from the sponsors.

Feel free to spend time learning about new products and services in the industry.

Time for a little break? Why not cruise out to “The Garden” the outdoor area with open table seating, heaters, and the amazing sounds of top jazz artists ‘Amsterdam Connection’ from (guess) Amsterdam. There you can sit and relax and have complimentary appetizers while listening to Naomi Adriaansz on sax and Tim Weaver on jazz harmonica. Their latest CD produced by legendary Paul Brown is up for song of the year in the Netherlands. They are on the A List circuit on

their tour. A great jazz duo that will also join in for the jam. www.facebook.com/naomi.adriaansz.

New Leaf Catering will be serving “Seasonal small bites” to our guests. There is complimentary iced tea and Kangen water for all guests.

In addition to all of the music and sponsors there will be tours of the amazing spa and facilities at Venus de Fido, including the magical Himalayan salt room. It’s the only facility where you can bring your pooch for grooming while you get some pampering of your own. There is a restaurant (indoor and outdoor), a shop, and a fitness area with some unique spa treatments.

Do you have to have a medical marijuana rec to attend? No, but you do if you want to receive any of the complimentary samples. (Bring cash for incidentals no change available).

So, how do you get an invitation to such a fabulous party you may ask? You have to be on the list.

How do you get on the invitation list? Text your name, email, and who referred you to 1-702-219-6777. We’re hoping to grow these parties in 2018 so spread the word.

We’d like to thank our list of participating sponsors: • New Leaf Catering ‘A selection of seasonal small bites” • Coachella Valley Weekly • Left Handed Infusions, Cannabis Sushi • PSA Organica • OG Collective • The 420 Kitchen and Sensi Chews • CITIDANK Dispensary Cathedral City • Grid Iron Bio Nutrients • So Cal Clone House • Coachella Valley Collective (Vape Experience) • Melissa Etheridge’s “Know Label” Cannabis Wine & Cannabis Beer (tinctures) • Desert Hot Springs Inn “Soak and Toke” • Debra Granillo, Braid Bar • Desert Canna Consulting & Desert Canna Hope • Caviar Kids • Juicy Juicy- Bullet Proof coffee w/ CBD or THC

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January 11 to January 17, 2018

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EVENTS GET HOPPIN’ WITH THE THIRD ANNUAL SWING ‘N HOPS STREET PARTY ON EL PASEO A CITY OF PALM DESERT FIRST WEEKEND FEATURED EVENT

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alm Desert kicks up its heels and swings into full gear again this February when the City presents the exciting third annual Swing N’ Hops Street Party – an outdoor party celebrating swing dance, craft beer, art, classic cars, and live music in the heart of Palm Desert’s upscale shopping and dining district, El Paseo. Taking place from 12 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, February 3, on the street between San Pablo Avenue and Larkspur Lane, this free, five-hour street party transports guests to a time when swing was king.

Attendees are encouraged to revive the glamour of the swing era by wearing fun fashion representative of the 1920s through 1940s. Hair stylists and retro headbands will be available to help the ladies with their pin-up victory curls. There will be a costume contest at 2:00 p.m. and a swing dance contest at 3:30 p.m. with prizes provided by El Paseo retailers including Uno de 50, Savory Spice Shop, Pacifica, Body Deli, L’Occitane, Spectacular Shades, Cactus Flower Shoes,

BG’s, Bare Minerals, and more!

The Jennifer Keith Quintet is back, providing music that will have everyone jitterbugging and lindy hopping all afternoon.

For swing newbies, free dance instruction will be available at the event. From West Coast swing to the collection of vintage swing dances – such as the shag, balboa, and the Charleston – those with their dancing shoes on will learn a variety of popular moves from the one and only Lupita Limon.

For the first time, the event is being fenced off so attendees can enjoy their hops while experiencing the entire event, rather than being confined to beer gardens.

Local breweries Coachella Valley Brewing Company, La Quinta Brewing Company, and Babe’s Bar-B-Que & Brewhouse will have craft beer for purchase in addition to wine and liquor cocktails provided by Liquid Catering powered by TRIO Restaurant. There will also be a multitude of food and retail vendors, and party goers will be able to get creative at various interactive art exhibits

throughout the event, and of course check out the vintage rides of El Paseo Cruise Night who will be showcasing classic autos from the swing era of the 1920s, 30s, and 40s.

Swing N’ Hops Street Party is a featured event of First Weekend, the city’s monthly art and culture program taking place every

INDIAN WELLS MUSIC FESTIVAL BOASTS ROCK, BLUES, JAZZ & COUNTRY

POPULAR MUSIC EVENT EXPANDED INTO TWO-DAY MULTI-GENRE FESTIVAL IN 2018

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RAMMY award-winner Jonny Lang and Jon Batiste & the Dap Kings will headline the Indian Wells Music Festival, a newly-expanded two-day music concert event to be held April 6-7, 2018 at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden. The popular music event that has taken place in the Coachella Valley for the past two decades has been expanded into a two-day festival, incorporating more musical styles than before, under the new name for 2018.

Mindi Abair, a two-time GRAMMYnominated saxophonist, and The Boneshakers will open the event on Friday, followed by The Fabulous Thunderbirds and Jonny Lang. On Saturday, California native Sandra Lynn will open the performances, followed by multiGRAMMY award-winning Robert Cray Band and Jon Batiste & The Dap Kings.

The event will be held under the Indian Wells Tennis Garden shade structure, offering seating for 2,000 patrons. The Indian Wells Tennis Garden – home to the BNP Paribas Open, the largest men’s and women’s combined tennis tournament in the world – underwent a full

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site beautification project ahead of the 2018 event to showcase the venue in “Full Bloom.”

The extensive project added palm trees, floral installations, pavers, plants and greenery throughout the Tennis Garden, reminiscent of a garden blooming to life in the springtime.

In addition to an impressive lineup of artists, the event will also feature an assortment of vendors offering food, wine, art and more.

Reserved Table seating is available for each night, as well as two-day packages to ensure the same seats for both days of the event.

“We’re excited to once again be partnering with the Indian Wells Tennis Garden team for this signature desert event,” said CV 104.3’s Jim “Fitz” Fitzgerald, co-founder of Wendy Jayne Productions, Inc. “Our goal is to always up the experience for loyal patrons, and we believe we did that this year by expanding the event to two days and putting together an impressive line-up of talent. This year we kick-off “Music Month” in the desert, and what a way to start it off!”

“We are so proud to have the City of Indian Wells as our Title Sponsor,” added Raymond Moore, CEO, Indian Wells Tennis Garden.

Tickets for the Indian Wells Music Festival will be available for purchase to the general public on February 1, 2018. For more information and to purchase tickets, please call the Indian Wells Tennis Garden Box Office at (760) 200-8000 or visit www.iwtg.net.

The Indian Wells Music Festival is a presentation of the Indian Wells Tennis Garden and Wendy Jayne Productions, Inc. Jonny Lang is often considered one of the best live performers and guitarists of his generation. With a GRAMMY Award under his belt, Lang has performed with some of the most respected legends in music including The Rolling Stones, B.B. King, Aerosmith and Buddy Guy. The Fabulous Thunderbirds have a quintessentially American sound that draws influence from the blues, R&B and rock ‘n roll.

The band has had several Top 40 singles in addition to a Top 40 album in “Tuff Enuff.”

Mindi Abair’s career spans seven solo albums and countless collaborations. She returns to the Coachella Valley in 2018 with the Boneshakers to electrify audiences with their

first weekend November through May. Other First Weekend events include Art Walk, El Paseo Cruise Night, Free Fridays at the Galen, and much more. For more information about Swing ‘N Hops Street Party or First Weekend please visit www. pdFirstWeekend.com.

EVENTS

brand of blues/rock/funk and jazz.

Jon Batiste is a globally celebrated musician, educator, bandleader and television personality. This piano virtuoso and Forbes 30 Under 30 nominee serves as the bandleader for the Late Show with Stephen Colbert and Artistic Director At Large of the National Jazz Museum in Harlem, in addition to performing nationally.

The Dap Kings recently joined forces with Jon Batiste after years of performing with the late Sharon Jones. The soulful retro sound of The Kings played on Amy Winehouse’s album “Back to Black.” and toured with her throughout the US. Robert Cray boasts five GRAMMY Awards, a collection of W.C. Handy Blues Awards, and inclusion in the Blues Hall of Fame. A prolific singer, guitarist and songwriter, Cray has been entertaining audiences for decades.

Sandra Lynn is a California native and a rising star in country music. She is known for her upbeat and playful singles, including “Afterparty,” “Bar Hoppin’” and “Hey California.”

The Indian Wells Tennis Garden opened in March 2000 and is a world-class tennis venue home to the renowned BNP Paribas Open. The site features the newly-renovated Stadium 1, the second largest tennis stadium in the world.

The 16,100-seat stadium underwent a full-scale renovation before the 2016 BNP Paribas Open that added more than 20 new dining options and completed re-constructed the concourse and suite level. The Tennis Garden also houses an 8,000-seat permanent Stadium 2 with three gourmet restaurants, including world-famous Nobu. The Indian Wells Tennis Garden features two 19,000 square foot shade structures, 28 world-class courts, 8 acres of exhibition space, a full-service, year-round tennis club, and 55 acres of outdoor parking.

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3RD ANNUAL CV MUSIC SHOWCASE - ROUND 2:

THE WINNER IS – SLEAZY CORTEZ

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unday night’s CV Weekly Music Showcase at The Hood Bar & Pizza gave us worthy and enjoyable performances from all four bands. They each performed a 20 minute set of all original songs in front of a panel of judges that included: Todd ‘TK’ Killiam, Program Director at 93.7 KCLB; Lisa Lynn Morgan, Award winning singer-songwriter & Talent buyer at Big Rock Pub; Arthur Seay, musician (HOBP, Unida, Death in Pretty Wrapping) Bitter Sounds Recording Studio owner; and Elexis ‘Eli’ Becken, Grammy nominated musician (formerly of Phallus, Se7en4, Good Shive Low), who recently just moved back to the desert from Dallas.

Frank Eats the Floor is comprised of Matt King, Bass & vocals; Franky Altamirano, drums & vocals; Joseph (Jo) Beltran, lead guitar; and Aleks Romo, rhythm guitar. These guys are all still in high school. Frontman, King, dazzled us with his outgoing personality as he was feeling very comfortable with the crowd for such a young age. He even gave a shout out to his Mom. This young band definitely has a promising music career ahead of them.

“I look forward to what the future brings for you guys. Just continue to keep honing your craft.” Judge Lisa Lynn Morgan Razor J and the Blades, comprised of Juan Espino, aka Razor J, vocals & guitar; Jesus Gonzalez, keyboards; Chris Plasse, bass; and Tomas ‘T-Money’ Granillo on drums, competed in last year’s Showcase.

They showed much growth with leader Espino offering up a varied menu of musical stylings from rap, hip-hop to R&B funk to closing with more of a rock track and

picking up his electric guitar and delivering a Hendrix style performance. Espino is quite the storyteller with his rap lyrics and is fun to watch on stage.

“I really liked your high energy and storytelling. The drums and rhythm section were tight.” Judge Elexis ‘Eli’ Becken “You’re such a great guitar player. I would like to see more of that.” Judge Lisa Lynn Morgan Mega Sun was the surprise of the night as they’ve only performed 3 shows together and been a band for 6 months. With Jeremy Parsons on bass n vocals, Chris Rivera on guitar; and Tyler Ontiveros on drums, this rock/metal power trio were extremely tight. Ontiveros offered up a riveting drum performance and could easily end up with a nomination for Best Drummer in this year’s CV Music Awards. This is the band to watch in 2018.

“You guys remind me of a bit of Red Fang and Anthrax. It was really tight. I feel like you guys could already go on tour.” Judge Elexis ‘Eli’ Becken “I want you guys on the radio this week.”

Judge TK Finally, Sleazy Cortez took the stage and held the audience and judges in their hand their whole performance. With their white trailer-trash, raw punk lyrics performed by kick ass bass player, Derek Wade Timmons, you can’t help be drawn in by this punk power trio. Drummer Damian Garcia holds down the beat while guitarist Nick Hales entertainingly shreds. It was easy to see why this band slid in for the win and took home the $200.00 cash prize for the night.

RAZOR J & THE BLADES

FRANK EATS THE FLOOR

January 11 to January 17, 2018

BY TRACY DIETLIN

CV MUSIC SHOWCASE

SLEAZY CORTEZ “You guys are a bit loosey goosey and I love that about you. You’re kind of like the bluesy, punk Red Hot Chili Peppers of the Desert with a little Tenacious D thing going on. You’re what a punk band is all about.”

Judge Elexis ‘Eli’ Becken “You guys are all the reasons why I love music. You’re a high energy rock, funk explosion.” Judge TK “I like that you had that Wal-Mart white, trailer-trash thing going on. You had great riffs and great grooves. It was fun and tight.

And you have merch.” Judge Arthur Seay Sleazy Cortez will move on to the Showcase Finals to be held at The Hood Bar & Pizza on Saturday, May 12. They will

join Round 1 winners Manuel the Band, along with the winners from the next 3 Showcases. There will also be one Wild Card pick joining the 5 winning bands.

The winner of the Finals will receive $2,000 cash sponsored by Brad Guth of The Hood and Julie Montante of PSA Organica; a photo shoot courtesy of Laura Hunt Little Images; and a one track recording with Arthur Seay at his Bitter Sands Recording Studio.

Photos courtesy of Robert Chance.

Sound provided by Nigel Dettelbach.

The next Showcase Round 3 will take place on Sunday, February 11, 2018.

MEGA SUN

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January 11 to January 17, 2018

CONSIDER THIS

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BY ELENI P. AUSTIN

AMERICAN MADE” MARGO PRICE “ALL (THIRD MAN RECORDS)

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ountry Music has always been a musical genre that championed conservative standards. “God, Guns, Family And Country” seemed like an unspoken mantra, (or “motto,” since mantra sounds suspiciously foreign). Even though Country songs have traditionally focused on lyin’ cheatin’ drinkin’ and fightin,’ family values have always been an underlying theme.

Back in the ‘60s, even as he made in-roads into the insular Nashville music community, Willie Nelson still felt like an outlier. He formed a loose collective with several likeminded singer-songwriters including Tompall Glaser, Waylon Jennings and Waylon’s wife, Jessi Colter. Aptly named The Outlaws, they released one record, Wanted! The Outlaws, in 1976, that introduced some grit, swagger and Rock N’ Roll to Country music.

If there was a 21st century counterpart to the Outlaws, it would have to include Jason Isbell, Sturgill Simpson, Chris Stapleton and Margo Price. As much as Willie, Waylon, Tompall and Jessi eschewed the big hair, spangles, sequins and rhinestones from that ‘70s era, Jason, Sturgill, Chris and Margo seem to reject the bro-tastic, beach party, sugary Pop/Country music that currently tops the charts.

Last year, it seemed like Margo Price burst out of nowhere with her solo debut, Midwest Farmer’s Daughter. In reality, she had been paying her dues in Music City for nearly 15 years. Margo was born in 1983 in the small town of Aledo, Illinois. She grew up on her family farm and spent her childhood playing in bean fields and corn fields. Her family was greatly affected by the agricultural crisis that hit in the mid ‘80s and actually lost their farm.

Her father had to take a job as a prison guard.

As a kid, she sang in her church choir and learned piano. She always exhibited an affinity to music, receiving her first guitar at age 13. Detours into dance and cheerleading earned her scholarship to Northern Illinois University, near Chicago. Ultimately, she decided to pursue a career in music. Dropping out of school, she made her way to Nashville.

Initially, she checked in with her Great Uncle, Bobby Fischer, a songwriter who penned hits for Conway Twitty, George Jones and Reba McEntire. After playing her nascent compositions for him, he advised Margo to get rid of her TV and any outside stimuli and

WESTFIELD MALL 72840 Hwy 111 #171 Palm Desert, CA 92260 760-341-2017 www.recordalley.com

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just write. So that’s what she did. Working odd jobs to make ends meet, she concentrated on getting songwriting credits on Music Row. Things turned around a bit when she met songwriter and musician, Jeremy Ivey. The pair clicked professionally and personally.

After a scary (Harvey Weinstein-esque) experience with a would-be manager, Margo and Jeremy pulled up stakes and relocated to Colorado. They settled in a campground outside Boulder, and earned their keep busking in the streets. Around this time, she and Jeremy connected with multiinstrumentalist Matt Gardiner, bassist Jason White and drummer Dillon Napier. Recruiting Amaia Aguire on Keys, and returning to Nashville, they formed the Country-Soul band, Buffalo Clover.

In 2010, Margo gave birth to twin boys, Ezra and Judah. Born with a rare heart defect, Ezra only lived two weeks. His death sent Margo into a bit of a tailspin. Attempting to selfmedicate, she ended up in jail for a weekend, following a drunken misdemeanor. That served as a wake-up call. She fully embraced motherhood, cut way back on the alcohol, and concentrated on honing her songwriting skills.

The adage “write what you Know” is corny, but effective. Margo knew pain and heartache and some poverty, (she and Jeremy spent one cold winter with their space heater on the bed under their blanket), so that’s what she wrote about. The couple sold their car to finance time at the venerable Sun Records recording studio. They emerged three days later with her first solo effort, Midwest Farmer’s Daughter. Somehow, it came to the attention of Jack White, and he signed her to his Third Man label.

A solid debut, it drew comparisons to Dolly Parton and Loretta Lynn, even as Margo insisted her influences were less distaff and included songwriters like David Allen Coe and Tom T. Hall. Musically, the melodies harked back to traditional Country. Lyrically, the songs were rich and nuanced.

The opening track, “Hands Of Time,” offered A pocket history of her rural beginnings and musical aspirations, “This Town Gets Around” lays out a withering treatise on the shadier aspects of the music industry (and touched on her encounter with that would-be manager who spiked her drink). “The Weekender” is an unvarnished account of her brush with the law, following Ezra’s death.

Critical acclaim was swift and effusive.

Commercial success quickly caught up, as the album debuted at #189 on Billboard’s Top 200 and vaulted into the Top 10 on the Country chart. Pretty soon Margo and her band the Price-Tags, (which includes her husband Jeremy on bass), were the musical guests on “Saturday Night Live” and “Later…With Jools Holland.” She played the Glastonbury Festival in the U.K. and the eclectic Bonaroo Festival back home.

Despite extensive touring, Margo and the band promptly returned to the studio and recorded 12 new tracks for her newly released sophomore effort, All American Made. The first three songs get the album off to a rollicking start.

Sweaty organ notes and twangy guitar open “Don’t Say It.” A Country-Soul work-

out, it whips up a heady brew of jangly guitar, raucous keys, boomerang bass and a ricochet rhythm. Here Margo’s vocals shift from a girlish purr to an caustic growl as she lays down the Law; “Don’t count your money ‘til it hits the bank, don’t clear your throat if you’ve got nothing to say/If you drink all day, don’t say You love me when you treat me this way.”

“Weakness” accelerates a traditional Western Swing rhythm, layering tart pedal steel, swooping fiddle and sprightly piano.

Trenchant lyrics acknowledge her quixotic behavior might be her undoing; “Sometimes I’m Virginia Woolf sometimes I’m James Dean, sometimes I’m my only friend and my worst enemy/My right hand never knows what my left one’s gonna do, but I never meant to cause the harm that I have done to you.”

Meanwhile, “A Little Pain,” explores the downside of achieving one’s dreams. Over a kick-drum beat, walking bass lines, a swoony string section, cascading pedal steel, strident piano and wily guitar licks, she concedes, “When I come home I gotta leave, my reality is only make believe/Someone said it’s one or the other, but I’m working like a mother.”

These opening tracks might give the impression that All American Made is a lighthearted romp, and certainly the World could use some easygoing music about now. But Margo never lets herself off the hook. In fact, the songs here dig deeper, managing to salt empathy, pathos, gravitas and humor into the mix A trio of tracks, underscore the ongoing (seemingly never-ending) inequality between the sexes. “Pay Gap” is a loping, South of the Border charmer powered by sparkly dobro, Conjunto accordion and rippling mandolin.

The arrangement is bookended by a slowwaltz chorus. But scathing lyrics offer this excoriating take on wage disparity; “No matter your religion, no matter your race, no matter your orientation, no matter your creed and no matter Your taste, and no matter your denomination/We’re all the same in the eyes of my God, but in the eyes of rich white men I’m no better than a maid, to be owned like a dog and a second-class citizen.”

“Wild Women” evokes comparisons to Kitty Wells’ epochal hit, “It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky-Tonk Angels” and Loretta Lynn’s “Honky-Tonk Girl.” Slippery pedal steel notes lap over salty fiddle, supple guitar and a JackRabbit rhythm. Cogent lyrics shine a spotlight on society’s unrealistic expectations; “Riding down the highway and running through the night, it’s hard to be a mother a singer and a wife/But all the men run around, and no one bats an eye, I don’t want this trouble, but it’s all I ever find.”

Finally, “Nowhere Fast” is a Bluesy lament that tries to reconcile life as a working musician with the demands and responsibilities of motherhood and marriage. Quavery mellotron laps over sinewy guitar, descending piano notes and icky thump percussion. Chasing her dreams requires a delicate balancing act that fathers and husbands never face. An expansive Guitar solo folds into the shimmery arrangement like an aural chiaroscuro.

This album simply crackles with succinct songcraft, but the stand-out track is “Learning To Lose,” a duet with the Outlaw King himself, Willie Nelson. The lonesome melody is accented by plangent acoustic guitar, fluttery strings, high lonesome pedal steel and a laidback groove. The pair commiserate over life’s inequities; “Everywhere I turned the cards were stacked against me, and I wondered was it bad luck or design/And all the things I’ve had to do without have been a blessing, but sometimes a blessing is a curse in disguise.”

Willie rips a gut-bucket solo on his trusty stead, Trigger, and longtime compadre Mickey Raphael adds piquant harmonica fills that are equal parts wood smoke and honey. Like Kris Kristofferson’s “Help Me Make It Through The Night,” this song is an instant Country classic.

Both “Heart Of America” and “Do Right By Me” recount the ‘80s agricultural crisis that subsumed small family farms. The former is anchored by a shuffle rhythm, sun dappled acoustic guitar and willowy pedal steel. The lyrics touch on the devastating loss Margo’s family endured that resulted in the creation of Farm Aid. The latter is a blustery Country-Gospel amalgam that features call-and-response backing vocals from the McCrary Sisters Quartet. Margo knew early on that a rural existence wasn’t for her; “I knew I had to get away, so I left that one-horse town, ain’t much for a girl to do but get knocked-up and settle down/The only dream some people have Is to win the lottery, if you don’t do right by yourself, do right by me.”

Other interesting tracks include the acerbic “Cocaine Cowboys” and the potent emotional inventory of “Loner.” The album closes with the title track. Written during the Buffalo Clover era, it includes snippets of speeches from Bill Clinton, Richard Nixon and Martin Luther King, Jr. The instrumentation is spare, just jangly acoustic and reverbdrenched electric guitar. It touches on political corruption and asks tough questions; “…I wonder if the President gets much sleep at night, and if the Folks on welfare are making it all right/I’m dreaming of that highway That stretches out of sight, it’s all American made.”

A huge Tom Petty fan, she dedicated the record to him on what would have been his 67th birthday. Wholly apropos, since they feel like kindred spirits.

Margo Price may never fit the mold for mainstream Country music. Unpolished, and rough around the edges, she seems ready to take on the Nashville establishment, one record at a time.

(Margo Price will play Pappy & Harriet’s Pioneertown Palace on Saturday, March 3rd, 2018).

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

BY ANGELA ROMEO ART SCENE ROBIN PRZYBYSZ: CONVERSATIONS ABOUT THE FEMININE

January 11 to January 17, 2018

T

he Southern California beach life is a far cry from the confluence of the Licking and Ohio rivers. Robin Przybysz has more than adapted to the change. She embodies the healthy life style and sun kissed look that epitomizes life on the coast.

Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, Robin grew up in a family that valued the arts. It was no surprise to them that Robin accepted the challenge of a career in the arts. She received her undergraduate degree in Fine Arts/Art Education from the University of Cincinnati in 1986, and returned in 1991 to serve as an Adjunct Professor for the Art Education Department. She spent the next three decades exhibiting her work domestically and abroad. Simultaneously Robing taught art to children, Kprep-12. In 2016 she received her MFA degree from Azusa Pacific University with an emphasis on sculpture installation.

Using techniques born from the ancient arts of basketry and weaving, Robin creates provocative pieces. What makes the work so strong and poignant is the familiarity of the material. “I manipulate the materials into sculptures of linen, plaster casts, and wood silhouettes. When constructing my linen sculptures, I tightly wrap waxed linen around a jute core which makes a strong yet flexible line, much like the consistency of wire, which I can bend and form into the structure I desire. I, then, stitch it in place and continue this method of coiling until I reach the desired outcome,” noted Robin.

For some this multi-disciplinary approach defies traditional notions of “fine art.”

For others it is a breath of fresh air on the contemporary art scene. Bridging the mythical gap of art vs. craft, Robin has gained international acclaim for her efforts. “I was part of a textile exhibition last spring in the Netherlands. In March, my work will be shown in Morocco with seven other artists for a textile convergence. I will return to Morocco for the month of June for an artist residency.”

Before she leaves for her international shows, Robin’s latest installation will open at Colliding Worlds Fine Art Gallery on January 13. Conversations about the Feminine, continues the dialogue that resonates throughout her work – the experiences of womanhood and transformation.

“I have always seen my work as a personal narrative of overcoming abuse, triumphing, and starting renewed with an

unimpaired immaculate heart. I have an ongoing conversation about the feminine: the experiences of womanhood and transformation embodied by the female form.” The work is a reflection of her personal journey, but like her technique, is a universal journey. The struggle to transform, adapt and grow is part of the human experience.

Whether change is precipitated by circumstance, choice or chance, is universal.

Robin’s work is the universal message of hope.

Excavations of the Immaculate Heart installed in 2016 brought the message of transformation to the conversation of femininity, strength and hope. The upcoming installation continues the discussion. The metamorphosis of what can be in embodied in these works can only be described as public display of affirmation and hope.

Robin continued, “The skills I perform and the designs I fashion in my artwork become y symbolic language. For me, as a process artist, it is the physical act of drawing, burning or sculpting lines and forms that I find myself in a an introspective trance. It allows me to have renewal and liberation from the oppression of childhood trauma by redirecting my own path in restructuring the cellular makeup of the story of my life; it declares hope, persistence and determination.”

The power of art can never be understated.

But power without truth is hollow. The power, truth and the art of Robin Przybysz is an experience and the start of a one’s own internal dialogue of realization and hope.

Conversations About the Feminine opens at 5 pm on January 13 at Colliding Worlds Fine Art Gallery, 68-895 Perez Rd, Suite I 13, Cathedral City. The for more information about Robin visit www.artintexture.com or robinprzybysz.com.

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January 11 to January 17, 2018

PET PLACE

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

BY JANET McAFEE

HELPING OUR COMMUNITY CATS

Y

ou see the little creatures scurry through restaurant parking lots, foraging for food in trash cans and handouts from patrons. Many Coachella Valley communities report colonies of stray cats, including litters of newborn kittens, living outdoors in the elements and roaming their neighborhoods. These cats without human homes create their own home in the wild, banding together for protection and companionship in colonies. However, without veterinary care, they may suffer from disease. Unsterilized, uncounted thousands of Coachella Valley stray cats breed at a rapid rate, creating unmanageable populations.

Some of these cats are STRAY cats, lost or abandoned animals that once had a human family. They are socialized and friendly, and can easily be rehomed. In contrast, a FERAL cat is an outdoor free-roaming animal never socialized to people. Some feral animals were born in the wild, while others were once domesticated, then abandoned and reverted to “wild” behavior. COMMUNITY cats, a term now used to describe both groups of cats, implies that these creatures deserve to have a place outdoors in our community. They need not be rounded up and exterminated.

Our Riverside County Department of Animal Services, like most public open-admission shelters across America, struggles with the

MEET SMOKEY True to his Russian Blue personality, this boy is gentle, intelligent, and affectionate. This sweet 6-yr-old fellow was rescued by www.ForeverMeow.org, call (760) 335-6767.

MEET STANLEY & BLIZZARD These precious 2-yr-old male pups were rescued

by Loving All Animals from a hoarder. They seek a home TOGETHER with loving, patient humans who enjoy training.

Contact (760) 834-7000.

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issue of picking up stray unsocialized cats by the thousands and not being able to adopt them into new homes. In 2016, at our local County shelter, The Coachella Valley Animal Campus, the live release rate for cats (many of them feral animals) was only 35 percent. Most cats are not tagged or microchipped, and the number of cats returned to their families from the shelter was less than 3 percent. No one wants to see thousands of animals euthanized in public shelters (at large taxpayer expense), but massive assistance was needed to turn these statistics around.

In January, 2017, help arrived to the Coachella Valley when a new Community Cat Program was launched with the goal of helping 3,500 animals per year over a three year span.

Trap/Neuter/Return (TNR) programs across our nation were already steadily solving the problem of too many unwanted stray felines.

TNR programs spay or neuter, vaccinate, and then return the cats to their community location. The number of cats killed in shelters is then reduced and the number of cats is stabilized. The nuisance complaints that lead to cats being brought to shelters are also reduced.

Based at the Coachella Valley Animal Campus in Thousand Palms, this new program is funded by Maddie’s fund, and coordinated by Best Friends, Riverside

County Department of Animal Services, and Friends of the Palm Springs Animal Shelter.

Shelter-bound free roaming felines can now be sterilized, vaccinated and microchipped at several veterinary clinics throughout the Valley, and then released to live out their lives. Collaboration among many local animal welfare organizations became the key to the program’s early success.

Destiny Haney, Community Cat Program Supervisor with Best Friends, explains, “As we end the first year of the program, we couldn’t be more excited to see the lifesaving happening at CVAC. Since February of 2017, we provided almost 3,500 surgeries which meant that some 1,300 fewer cats died in the shelter last year.

The save rate for cats in November 2016 was 37%, as compared to 73% in November 2017.

Since the program is based out of CVAC, we could not have done it without the support of Director of Riverside County Animal Services, Rob Miller, Deputy Director Frank Corvino, and the entire shelter staff. This effort challenges everything that shelters historically considered standard practice for dealing with cats. Spread the word and work with us! We need more volunteers to help with trapping, transporting cats, providing administrative support, and fostering for the shelter.”

Mary Ewing, director of Loving All Animals’ Whiskers & Purrs program, adds, “We are thrilled to have Best Friends in the Coachella Valley providing funds and organization to save these cats. But to become more efficient, we need more veterinarians, more vet techs, and more people to help trap the cats. The community of cat lovers needs to assist if we are going to solve our community cat crisis.

Please help, and your help can be as simple as calling to borrow 2 traps.”

Would you like to help these beautiful animals? The main hotline number for the Community Cat Program is (760) 507-1228.

Send emails to coachellacats@bestfriends.org.

To learn more about community cats and TNR go to bestfriends.org/straycats. Remember the slogan at Best Friends, “TOGETHER WE CAN SAVE THEM ALL”.

Jmcafee7@verizon.net

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

THE VINO VOICE

January 11 to January 17, 2018

BY RICK RIOZZA

STEADFAST WINE RESOLUTIONS

I

like it when I hear about the wine enthusiasts about town making New Year resolutions that center around tasting and sampling wines that either they haven’t had in a while or have never tried.

So let’s help the cause and think through some enlightening vino for the up-coming seasons.

Eiswine (Icewine) is definitely something to consider in January because the wine cannot be produced until the weather outside is frightening; I’m thinking the powerful winter artic outbreak that crashed into the East Coast this week was the ticket in Canada and in the Finger Lakes region of New York—but no one was thinking Icewine in that mess.

Icewine is a pricey product because a producer wanting to produce it must set aside some vineyard space around October so the grapes hang on the vine until such time as the serious frost required arrives as soon as the temperature drops sufficiently and the grapes freeze, grapes need to be picked before dawn, and pressed into grape must. Because much of the water in the grapes is frozen, the pressed juice is concentrated, rich in flavor and high in sugar and acidity.

Indeed, ice wines are extraordinarily sweet but yet balanced by laser-focused acidity exhibiting bright fruit essences.

Germany and Canada—having early and cold winters in common, probably produce the best ice wines in the world and are the leading producers of traditional ice wines, but Austria, Switzerland and the United States, particularly Michigan and the Finger Lakes can produce some tasty stuff.

Ice wine usually has a medium to full body, with a long lingering finish. The nose and palate is usually reminiscent of peach, pear, dried apricot, honey, citrus, figs, caramel, green apple. Further aromas of tropical and exotic fruits such as pineapple, mango, or lychee are also quite common.

They make an excellent aperitif and these sweet nectars are a perfect complement to

nut & fruit-based desserts and ice-cream or sorbets. And, they are stunningly impressive enough on their own to be dessert.

Even those enthusiasts who do not even think about enjoying a “sweet wine”, once they’ve finally relented and taste the wine, they realize the bracing acidity keeps the experience fresh, alive, and exciting.

Relatively low in alcohol—often with only seven percent or so, it’s the perfect dinner party quaff—before, during, or after the meal. It’s typically consumed in a twoounce pour, or half the typical wine pour.

Inniskillin Gold Oak Aged Vidal Icewine 2008, $50, is a great tasty example of Canadian Ontario Icewine. The JacksonTriggs Proprietors’ Reserve Vidal Icewine, at $20 or so, is definitely an entry-level wine for starters.

Speaking of sweet wines, we have two of the most popular world class dessert wines, Tokaji Aszú [tohk-EYE-ee ah-SOO] from Hungary and of course Vintage Port wine from Portugal, doing a reversal of sorts, where those classic regions are now producing “dry” wines from the same grape varietries.

Portugal has been producing stellar dry reds for a long while and they’re becoming more popular. I’ve just sampled through an exciting lineup and look forward to discuss them in an upcoming column.

As to the Hungarian dry, the latest craze is Furmint. A white grape that is one of the primary varities used in sweet Tokji. Author and wine critic Hugh Johnson co-founded the Royal Tokaji Wine Company, which produces The Oddity, a dry, crisp white Furmint available in the U.S. The producer describes it as “Chenin Blanc with attitude.”

Furmint ranges in color from pale straw to light amber, with aromas of pineapple, lemon blossom, orange rind, ripe pear, white peach, yellow peach and apricot.

Dry Furmint frolics lovely with seafood, shellfish, raw oysters, sushi, spicy foods, chicken and most vegetables. The lemonroasted chicken and broccolini was an

excellent match.

A recognizable brand name that’s a bit popular in your wine stores would be Mád Furmint 2015, $20, with its nose of guava and kiwi with lime zest and a palate wide with tart yellow apple, apricot, peaches and ginger spice. Just a touch off-dry in style with minerallity. Surely a white wine to try The Barta 2013 Öreg Király Dűlő Mád Furmint; $30, is probably harder to find but worth the effort Aromas of Turkish delight, marzipan and lemon blossom lead the way to rich, ripe flavors of green apple, dried pineapple and lemon zest. This well-made wine has a strong mineral backbone with a brisk, clean finish.

If you haven’t had these lately, particular wine recommendations include:

2014 Robert Mondavi Reserve Chardonnay, Carneros, Napa Valley, $50.

This is, of course, a treat when you have the bucks for a classic Carneros Mondavi chard.

Lush ripe pear and smooth new oak in a cool-climate setting.

2014 The Prisoner Wine Company Saldo Zinfandel, $50 : Sourced from historic dry-farmed vineyards across Northern California, a rich caramel nose, silky and smooth with spice and ripe blackberry fruit.

A very stylish full-on wine. Wine Spectator writes, “jammed with toasty oak and black pepper notes, this is backed up by baked cherry, grilled anise and toffee flavors.

Drink now through 2022.”

2013 Seghesio Family Vineyard Barbera, Alexander Valley, $38. This is fruit from a century old vineyard that has always produced some of the best California Barbera in the state. The nose is very aromatic revealing scents of cherry, vanilla, notes of oak and dark berries. A medium bodied wine that has a smooth texture, good balance and soft tannins. The palate reveals flavors of blackberry, blueberry, cherry and a spicy finish.

Cheers!

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January 11 to January 17, 2018

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

THUR JANUARY 11

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Bobby Furgo & Co 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Discoteca w/ DJ Victor Rodriguez 9pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Francesca Amari, Bill Marx and Doug MacDonald 6:30pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Piano Bar 6pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Throwback Thursday w/ DJs Addemup and Dxsko 9pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Barry Minniefield 7pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 John Stanley King 6-10pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm CATALAN; RM; 760-770-9508 George Christian 6-9pm CHEF GEORGE’S PICASSO LOUNGE; BD; 760-200-1768 Denny Pezzin 7-10pm CORKTREE; PD; 760-779-0123 Michael Keeth 6-9pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill Baker 6pm DHS SPA LOUNGE; DHS; 760-329-6787 Karaoke w/ DJ Scott 9pm EUREKA; IW; 760-834-7700 Derek Jordan Gregg 8-10pm FISHERMAN’S GROTTO; PD; 760-776-6533 Barry, Bob and Riz 6:30pm GADI’S RESTAURANT AND BAR; YV; 760365-6633 Open Mic Night 7pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm HOODOO COCKTAIL GARDEN @ THE HYATT; PS; 760-322-9000 Chris Lomeli 7pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Open Mic 9pm

JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Punk Rock Night 9pm LA QUINTA OLDTOWN TAPROOM; LQ; Right On Right On 8-11pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Hot Rox LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-3452450 Country Night w/ Country Nation 8pm THE LOUNGE, AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 888999-1995 Quinto Menguante 8-1am MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8pm THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 Reverend Horton Heat, Voodoo Glowskulls and Big Sandy 8pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Intimate Acoustics w/ Courtney Chambers, Krystofer Do, The Sieve & The Saddle and more 9pm RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 DJ Worden 9pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Evaro Brothers 8pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; PS; 760-322-9293 The Smooth Brothers 7pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 Dude Jones 6pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 T-Bone Karaoke 8pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Wayne Boyer 6:30pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Robert Salisbury 5-7pm, Tony Patler Project 7:30-11pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Alex Santana 5-8pm THE WINE EMPORIUM; LQ; 760-565-5512 DJ 7pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 Linda Peterson 6:30pm ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 DJ 8pm

CHEF GEORGE’S PICASSO LOUNGE; BD; 760-200-1768 Denny Pezzin 7-10pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill Baker 6pm ELECTRIC SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-2281199 DJ Ceddy Cedd 9pm EL MEXICALI CAFÉ 2; IND; 760-342-2333 Cesar Daniel Lopez on the harp 6-9pm FISHERMAN’S GROTTO; PD; 760-776-6533 Gina Carey 6pm THE GRILL ON MAIN; LQ; 760-777-7773 The Myx 8:30pm THE HARD ROCK HOTEL PS; PS; 760-3259676 Esjay Jones Presents: Acoustic Sessions w/ Anthony Alexander and Eevaan Tre 8pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Mike’s BurftDay w/ Nuclear Cowboys, Blasting Echo and The Hellions 9pm HOODOO COCKTAIL GARDEN @ THE HYATT; PS; 760-322-9000 Keisha D 7pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Live VJ 9pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760345-6466 Bob Allen 6pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Dana Larson 5-7pm KILO’S CANTINA; TP; 760-835-1363 Thr3 Strykes, Edgar Sosa, WillDaBeast, KVLUF, Buck Roogah, Quiet, Tony-T & Mick Mac and Ba5ehundred 9pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 TBA 8pm LA QUINTA BREWERY; PD; The Rough and Tumble 7-9pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Palm Springs Sound Company in the afternoon, Hot Rox in the night LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-3452450 Klique 9pm THE LOUNGE; AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 888999-1995 DJ Jerry 9pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760-3274080 Noise Pollution (AC/DC Tribute Band) 9pm PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB; PD; 760345-0222 TBA 6:30pm 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Son PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 Three Chord Justice 8pm of the Velvet Rat 6:30pm PEABODY’S CAFÉ; PS; 760-322-1877 ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 The Full Karaoke 7:30pm House Band w/ Nena Anderson 8pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND AGAVE LOUNGE@THE HYATT REGENCY; COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Red’s Rockstar IW; 760-674-4080 Art of Sax 8pm Karaoke 9pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 PURPLE ROOM; PS; 760-322-4422 Levi Kreis Sharon Sills 6:30pm 8pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Friday Night Sour RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 The Refills Hour w/ Pink Lemonade Drag Show 9pm 9pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 La RIVIERA; PS; 760-327-8311 Michael Keeth Connecta w/ DJs Rich Brandon, DJ LF, Contraz 7:30pm and Cielo High 9pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Evaro BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Barry Brothers 8pm Minniefield 7pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 Whiskey MARKET; PS; 760-322-9293 Barry Baughn Blues 8:30pm Blues 8-11pm BLUE BAR, SPOTLIGHT 29; INDIO; 760-775- SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S 5566 DJ Double A 8pm MARKET; LQ; 760-777-1601 The Smooth BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 The Stanley Brothers 8-11pm Butler Trio 6-10pm SHELLY’S LOUNGE@TORTOISE ROCK CASCADE LOUNGE, SPA RESORT CASINO; CASINO; 29 Palms; Rojer Arnold & Bobby PS; 888-999-1995 DJ Michael Wright 9-1am Furgo 9pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick SMOKIN’ BURGERS; PS; 760-883-5999 Ron Tuzzolino 5:30pm James 6pm CATALAN; RM; 760-770-9508 George SOLANO’S BISTRO; LQ; 760-771-6655 Christian 6-9pm Michael Madden 6-9pm

FRI JANUARY 12

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SOUL OF MEXICO; IND; 760-200-8787 Latin Rock 10pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 Demetrious and Co. 6pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 Barflys 9pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Pat Rizzo & Dennis Michaels 6:30pm TRILUSSA ITALIAN RISTORANTE; PS; 760328-2300 Julius & Sylvia Music Duo 6-10pm VENUS DE FIDO; PD; 760-834-7070 Michael D’Angelo 6-9pm, Carl Davis Dance Lesson 7pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Meet the Corwins 5:30-7:30pm, John Stanley King Show 8pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Boys Night Out w/ DJ House Whores 7pm WESTIN MISSION HILLS; RM; 760-328-5955 Michael Keeth 5-7pm WILLIE BOYS; MV; 760-932-4300 Live Music 8pm THE WINE EMPORIUM; LQ; 760-565-5512 Rob Martinez and Todd Ashley ft. Lisa LaFaro Weselis 6:30-10pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 Rose Mallett 6:30pm ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 DJ 9pm

SAT JANUARY 13

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Bev & Bill 6:30pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Dublab Presents: Dayclubbing w/ Jimi Hey 11am poolside, DJ Young Einstein 10pm AGAVE LOUNGE@THE HYATT REGENCY; IW; 760-674-4080 Art of Sax 8pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Cabaret on the Green Open Mic 7:30pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Denise Carter 7:30pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Super Sonido Special Edition w/ Alf Alpha and Friends 9pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Barry Minniefield 7pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 Flogging Seagulls 8:30pm BLUE BAR; SPOTLIGHT 29; IND; 760-7755566 DJ 9pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 Gina Carey 6-10pm CASCADE LOUNGE, SPA RESORT CASINO; PS; 888-999-1995 DJ Michael Wright 9-1am CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm CATALAN; RM; 760-770-9508 George Christian 6-9pm CHEF GEORGE’S PICASSO LOUNGE; BD; 760-200-1768 Denny Pezzin 7-10pm CHILL BAR; PS; 760-327-1079 TBA 9pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill Baker 6pm DATE SHED; IND; Long Duk Dong and D Tension 8pm DESERT FOX; PD; The Woodys 9pm DHS SPA LOUNGE; DHS; 760-329-6787 Karaoke w/ DJ Scott 9pm ELECTRIC SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-2281199 DJ Ceddy Cedd 9pm EL MEXICALI CAFÉ 2; IND; 760-342-2333 Cesar Daniel Lopez on the harp 6-9pm FISHERMAN’S GROTTO; PD; 760-776-6533 Jack Ruvio 6pm FOX & THE FIDDLE; PD; 760-888-0111 Live Music 7pm

GADI’S RESTAURANT AND BAR; YV; 760365-6633 Dana Larson 5-8pm THE GRILL ON MAIN; LQ; 760-777-7773 TBA 8:30pm THE GROOVE LOUNGE; SPOTLIGHT 29; INDIO; 760-775-5566 DJ 8pm THE HARD ROCK HOTEL PS; PS; 760-3259676 Esjay Jones Presents: Global Sessions w/ David Macias, Little Bear Valley Blues and Bellstarr 8pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Shape of Things 9pm HOODOO COCKTAIL GARDEN @ THE HYATT; PS; 760-322-9000 The Carmens 7pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Live VJ 9pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760345-6466 Bob Allen 6pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 TBA 9pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Karaoke 7pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Palm Springs Sound Company,in the afternoon,Hot Rox,in the night LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-3452450 Klique 9pm THE LOUNGE, AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 888999-1995 Pop Vinyl 9pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm MOXIE; PS; 760-318-9900 Derek Jordan Gregg 6-9:30pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760-3274080 212 Band 9pm PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB; PD; 760345-0222 Off Da Cuff 6:30pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 Luna & Eleanor Friedberger 8:30pm PEABODY’S CAFÉ; PS; 760-322-1877 Karaoke 7:30pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm PURPLE ROOM; PS; 760-322-4422 Dave Damiani and Landau Murphy Jr. 8pm RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 California Celts 9pm RIVIERA; PS; 760-327-8311 TBA 6pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Evaro Brothers 8pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; PS; 760-322-9293 Barry Baughn Blues 8-11pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; LQ; 760-777-1601 The Smooth Brothers 8-11pm SHELLY’S LOUNGE@TORTOISE ROCK CASINO; 29 Palms; Rojer Arnold & Bobby Furgo 9pm SIDEWINDER GRILL; DHS; 760-329-7929 Karaoke w/ Milly G 6pm SMOKIN’ BURGERS; PS; 760-883-5999 Ron James 6pm SOUL OF MEXICO; IND; 760-200-8787 Latin Music 10pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 TBA 6pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 Lance Riebsomer 9pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Dennis Michael 6:30pm TRILUSSA ITALIAN RISTORANTE; PS; 760328-2300 Julius & Sylvia Music Duo 6-10pm

January 11 to January 17, 2018

VIBE, MORONGO CASINO; CAB; 951-7555391 DJ 10pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Rose Mallett & Co. 5-7pm, Kal David, Lauri Bono & The Real Deal 7:30-11pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 TBA 7pm WESTIN MISSION HILLS; RM; 760-328-5955 Michael Keeth 6pm WILLIE BOYS; MV; 760-932-4300 Live Music 8pm THE WINE EMPORIUM; LQ; 760-565-5512 Chris Lomeli 7pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 The Stanley Butler Band 6:30pm ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 DJs 9pm

SUN JANUARY 14

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Bob Garcia 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 DJ 11am poolside, Andrew Victor 7pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Jazz Brunch w/ Shelley Yoelin and Bill Casale 11:30am AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 The Judy Show 7:30pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Bartland w/ DJ LF and Friends 9pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Brian Denigan 7pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 TBA 6-10pm CASCADE LOUNGE, SPA RESORT; PS; 888999-1995 Nash with Quinto Menguante 9pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm CHEF GEORGE’S PICASSO LOUNGE; BD; 760-200-1768 Lori Yeary 6-9pm CORKTREE; PD; 760-779-0123 Michael Keeth 6-9pm

continue to page 20

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January 11 to January 17, 2018

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THEPAMPERED PALATE

JEM STEAKHOUSE AT SPOTLIGHT 29 NOW SERVING LUNCH

I

recently dined, for the first time, at JEM Steakhouse inside of Spotlight 29 Casino.

My husband and son- in-law had eaten dinner there a month earlier prior to attending a concert there and raved about how amazing the food was. The restaurant was larger and more upscale than I expected. Our hostess sat my husband and myself in a cozy booth and our server, Heather, immediately gave us menus and a wine list. We were there because we heard that they had just recently started serving lunch.

I was surprised at how many mouthwatering choices they had on the lunch menu.

We decided to try several items and share everything. Our waitress informed us that the soup of the day was Salmon Chowder, which I had never had before and being a salmon lover I had to try it. The ample chunks of salmon were so tender and tasty and the cream sauce was lighter than the usual heavy cream chowders, which made it absolutely delicious. ($6.95) Next we tried the Poke Nachos, which were also prepared differently than I had previously experienced, with Serrano peppers on top and a zesty Siracha aioli sauce drizzled over them. I was in love with the way the flavors of the ahi, peppers and aioli blended together offering my taste buds a real treat. (12.95) Our next selection was the Coconut Shrimp.

Large butterflied shrimp fried to perfection with the best Spicy mango salsa and sweet chili sauce I’ve ever tasted. I have order this appetizer at many restaurants but have never

had them as amazing as these were for only ($10.35). I can’t wait to go back just for those three dishes alone.

My husband wanted to try the 4 cheese Spinach and Artichoke dip, which was delicious and I appreciated that it was served with both chips and baked pita bread. ($6.75) At this point I was willing to let him have all of that if I could barter for one more coconut shrimp and another poke nacho.

Right about the time we finished the appetizers our entrees arrived. He chose the 12 oz. Rib Eye with mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables. I had a bite of everything and gave it my thumbs up. He was very happy with his steak as they prepared it perfectly to his specifications. ($18.00) For my entrée I selected the JEM Salad, which consisted of mixed greens, sautéed lobster and shrimp, bell peppers, asparagus and tomatoes with an avocado dressing. The lobster and shrimp were served warm and the

large amounts of lobster meat were melt in your mouth goodness. Considering the ample portion I still cannot believe that this salad was only ($12.75).

Chef Dario Canizales stopped by our table and I was able to compliment him on his unique spin on these fabulous dishes. We also spoke with Manager Dino Pappas, who expressed how excited they were to now be open for lunch. “We want to give people on this end of town a fine dining experience for lunch, but not empty their wallets. There really isn’t any other fine dining restaurant in this area. We also want to get the word out to people coming out to the casino and from the other parts of the valley that we are now serving lunch.”

There are too many items on this lunch

*

diner’s choice Winner Top 100 Dining HoT SpoTS in the U.s.!

menu to list, but to give you an idea, they serve several salads, appetizers, sandwiches, burgers and dinner type entrees, with the prices mostly falling under $14.95 and many under $10.00. This price point is quite impressive for the amount of food and the quality that they serve. You can even get Lemon Chicken Piccata with wild rice and vegetables for only $13.75.

This was definitely one of my favorite dining experiences in the valley. I truly feel like we found a real ‘hidden gem’ in the desert. I look forward to returning soon.

JEM is open for lunch from 11-3 daily.

They also serve dinner starting at 4pm with Happy hour from 4-7pm. For more info go to spotlight29.com/dining/jem-steakhouse or call (760)775-2880. Spotlight 29 Casino is located at 46-200 Harrison Pl in Coachella.

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January 11 to January 17, 2018

21

January 11 to January 17, 2018

SCREENERS

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BY ROBIN E. SIMMONS

No. 299

FOR LOVE OF MONEY NOW SHOWING: MOLLY’S GAME

For a decade, Olympic-class skier Molly Bloom ran one of the world’s most exclusive high-stakes poker games before being arrested by 17 assault rifle toting FBI agents.

Her dedicated players included Hollywood and sports royalty, business titans and finally – much to her great surprise -- the Russian mob. Criminal defense lawyer Charlie Jaffey, her only ally, learned that there was much more to Molly than the tabloids headlines had led us to believe.

Writer-director Aaron Sorkin’s compelling movie is not only driven by a great story, screenplay and direction,

22

but also by the terrific Oscar© worthy performances from Jessica Chastain and Idris Alba.

ALL THE MONEY IN THE WORLD Ridley Scott’s gripping cinematic adaptation of a startling true story received a lot of unwanted (?) publicity when at the last minute actor Kevin Spacey’s inappropriate sexually aggressive behavior with a teen boy got him digitally excised from the movie weeks before it’s world premier. Christopher Plummer was hired to replace Spacey in the role of billionaire J. Paul Getty.

All reports from those who have seen both versions of the film tell me Plummer, who bears an uncanny resemblance to

Getty, is superb in what may be an award worthy performance.

The story follows the 1973 kidnapping of 16-year-old John Paul Getty III (Charlie Plummer, no relation to the man playing his grandfather) and the desperate attempt by his devoted mother Gail (Michelle Williams) to convince his billionaire oil tycoon grandfather (Christopher Plummer) to pay the ransom. But when grandfather Getty refuses to pay the $7 million ransom, Gail attempts to sway him, as her son’s captors become increasingly volatile and brutal sending a severed ear to make their point. With her son’s life in the balance, Gail draws closer Getty’s advisor (Mark Wahlberg). They become unlikely allies in the race against time that finally exposes and the truth of what matters most when love versus money. This great looking and provocative story challenges our collective moral compass and current political agendas. Mary Pickford’s D’Place Entertainment.

NEW BLU FOR THE HOME THEATER: WUTHERING HEIGHTS (1970) Lensed on location in the stark rusticity of author Emily Bronte’s Yorkshire country the woefully underrated 1970 version of a timeless, tempestuous romance for the ages, starring Timothy Dalton and Anna Calder-Marshall and scored by the great Michel Legrand comes vividly alive and now in ravishing hi-def. The wild and physically stunning locations help us understand the power of the environment on Bronte’s

imagination that nurtured her unique novel of transcendental love and hate. Twilight Time Movies. Limited edition (only 3,000 units). Blu-ray.

BRAWL IN CELL BLOCK 99

Former boxer Bradley (Vince Vaughn) loses his job as a mechanic about the time his troubled marriage ends its run. At a crossroads in his life, Bradley thinks he’s got no better option than to work with an old buddy as a drug courier. His new vocation improves his situation, that is, until he finds himself in a gunfight between a bunch of cops and his own ruthless allies. When the smoke clears, Bradley’s badly hurt and thrown in prison, where his enemies force him to commit acts of violence in order to keep his pregnant wife from a violent abortion and gruesome mutilation. Soon, Bradley’s prison becomes a savage and bloody battleground.

Be warned, this is a grim, ultra-violent and admittedly mesmerizing tale of rage, sadism and salvation. RLJE Films. Ultra HighDef 4K. robin@coachellavalleyweekly.com

BOOK REVIEW

A

s the Palm Springs International Film Festival continues to screen films from around the world, it’s apropos that we celebrate the written word and the cinematic experience of literary adaptations.

I’m reminded of scripture: “In the beginning was the word, and the word was with God.” Maybe it’s blasphemous to some to say that writers are like God or gods, but I don’t think it’s an unfair stretch.

Writers design worlds, create beings and let them loose. Writers create moral dilemmas and ponder existential questions.

Good writing transports us and takes us away without leaving the place where we sit.

That is magic!

Since the start of filmmaking and bringing books to the big screen, there has been a constant belief that the book is always better than the movie.

The characters in a story come to life during the reading process. The words and actions take a unique shape within the confines of the pages. A book is a living entity.

How can a movie adaptation of a beloved book ever get into the personal space where the reader has lived in the world the author constructed and set free in our imagination?

The cinematic arts have caught up with narrative fiction. Movies today can generate just about anything that has been written on the page. There seems to be no visual limits.

Capturing the essence of a literary story is something much more challenging than

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CINEMATIC ADAPTATION

merely visual effects.

But, no matter, this remains an exciting time for novelists and filmmakers.

A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle (Square Fish, 256 pages) – Fiction, is a book I look forward to seeing actualized on the big screen in this year.

The cinematic technology that now exists makes it possible to bring this book to life like never before.

Written in 1962, this coming-of-age story is beloved around the world by children and adults.

The protagonist is Meg Murry. It has been a year since her father, a scientist, disappeared.

Her life without her dad is troubled. She is a misfit, awkward and an outsider. In fact, Meg’s whole family is considered odd.

When a celestial being appears, it reveals a fifth dimension, a tesseract – a wrinkle in space -- which Meg can enter in search of her father.

Meg, her brother Charles, along with their pal Calvin, set out on a perilous interdimensional journey through the cosmos.

But the voyage to find the truth, and the exploration of other worlds may be more than they can handle.

The power of this story is that it blends mythology, theology, science and adventure.

The children are innocent, vulnerable, weak and way out of their element.

With the help of three angel-like entities, Mrs. Who, Mrs. Which and Mrs. Whatsit, the children begin to understand the bigger

January 11 to January 17, 2018

BY HEIDI SIMMONS

meaning of life when they are faced with temptation, evil and death.

The appeal of this classic story is that the children must confront their fears and overcome their insecurities to save their father.

The “Black Thing” battle is a terrifying fight for human souls. Books from this era seem to not hold back from the real dangers of existence. Where there is life, there is death.

A Wrinkle in Time directly deals with good versus evil.

We relate to Meg because she represents the reader and our frail vulnerability and our desire to love and be loved. We long to know

a truth that may be unknowable.

These are universal themes and Meg’s quest is harrowing and transformational. And that is why we can’t stop reading, and why we search out other books in hopes they can transport us to another place while moving us emotionally, and perhaps even give us answers to the “big” questions.

Based on the Wrinkle in Time movie trailers, the screen adaptation looks to be a brilliantly colorful, lush and visually rich recreation of the source material.

However, keep in mind that what was in your head may not end up on the screen.

But, don’t miss the movie because you’re afraid it will ruin the book for you. No movie can ruin a book. That is impossible because the book always remains intact, word-forword. The book continues to exist unchanged!

A cinematic adaptation is always an interpretation. Ideally, it serves the narrative rather than replace it, and it should be considered the filmmaker’s visual expression of the literary story.

We really want those working to bring a cinematic adaptation to life to get it right. But, if it doesn’t happen, there is always room for another filmmaker to take a try at another time.

Never forget, it all begins with writers and readers. “In the beginning was the word…”

SAFETY TIPS

BY FIRE CHIEF SAM DIGIOVANNA

I’VE SEEN FIRE AND NOW WE’LL SEE RAIN!

I

don’t know about you, but now days it’s pretty stressful driving even when it’s not raining,” says Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna.

“Through a mix of forecasted rain this week, it will make it worse.”

Did you know there are over 700,000 automobile crashes each year due to rain, resulting in approximately 3,300 deaths and 330,200 injuries?

Driving in the rain doesn’t have to be an added stressful experience. First and foremost –Think! “Many people drive subconsciously, out of habit,” says Fire Chief DiGiovanna.

Make sure your habits are good ones. “When it rains, we often don’t adjust our thinking.”

Drivers need to stay alert and focused.

Turn on those headlights. It’s the law in all states to turn headlights on when visibility is low, and many states also require having the headlights on when the windshield wipers are in use. Make sure your wipers are working well. Consider taking your car in to your mechanic and get the basics checked.

Good tires, brakes and distance are also ‘must-haves’ when driving in rain. Beware of hydroplaning. That’s the technical term for what occurs when your tires are getting more traction on the layer of water on the road

than on the road itself - the result is that your car begins to slide uncontrollably. If you start to hydroplane, let off the accelerator slowly and steer straight until you regain control.

Speed limit signs are designed for ideal conditions and that means driving when you have little traffic and good visibility. That’s hardly the environment you’re driving in when it’s raining, so let up on the accelerator and allow more time to get to your destination.

Cell phone and texting? Don’t even think about!

For those of you living in areas that suffered recent wildfires visit: cdc.gov/ disasters/landslides.html Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

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January 11 to January 17, 2018

CLUB CRAWLER NIGHTLIFE continued from page 15 DHS SPA LOUNGE; DHS; 760-329-6787 AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Radio 60 3-6pm Bill Marx 6:30pm EL MEXICALI CAFÉ 2; IND; 760-342-2333 BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Cesar Daniel Lopez on the harp 6-9pm Goolagoon, Humor Me, Panzram and Not/ Normal 9pm GADI’S RESTAURANT AND BAR; YV; 760365-6633 Dana Larson 6-9pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Open Jam 6pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Hot Rox LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Palm Springs Sound Company, in the LAVENDER BISTRO; LQ; 760-564-5353 afternoon, Hot Rox, in the night Mark Gregg 5-9pm LAVENDER BISTRO; LQ; 760-564-5353 Mark MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; Gregg 5-9pm 760-325-2323 Mikael Healy 8pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 760-325-2323 Sunday Jam 3:30-7:30pm, Karaoke 8pm-1:15am Mikael Healy 8pm THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 T-Bone 7pm Karaoke 8pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry Open Mic 7pm 7:30pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 The COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Industry Sunday Band 7:30pm Night w/ DJ Tone 2pm-close SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Eddie Gee SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Randy 7pm Seymon 8pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-341SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 The Myx 6pm 3560 T.B.A. 6pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Darci Daniels and Reggie Vision 7pm Mike Costley’s Jazz Show 6:30-10pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 THE WINE EMPORIUM; LQ; 760-565-5512 John Stanley King & Trio 6-9:30pm The Mighty Sweet Nothings 6:30pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Gennine Francis WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-2306-9pm 0188 Motown Mondays 6:30pm WILLIE BOYS; MV; 760-932-4300 Live Music 8pm THE WINE EMPORIUM; LQ; 760-565-5512 Rob Martinez and Scott Carter 6:30pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 John Carey and Friends 6:30pm Dana Larson 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Ace Karaoke with Kiesha 9pm 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 The AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Luminators 6pm Linda Peterson 6:30pm

TUE JANUARY 16

MON JANUARY 15

S and G

PUMPING SERVICE

Septic Tank & Grease Trap Pumping Sewer & Drain Cleaning Odor Control

760-404-6325

24

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Bella da Ball Dinner Revue w/ guest performers 7:30pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Strictly Vinyl w/ DJ Richie Rich and Friends 9pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Chris Lomeli 7pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 Big Rock Big Blues Jam 7pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 Stanley Butler Trio 6-10pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm CHEF GEORGE’S PICASSO LOUNGE; BD; 760-200-1768 Michael D’Angelo 7-10pm CORKTREE; PD; 760-779-0123 Michael Keeth 6-9pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill Baker 6pm FIRESIDE LOUNGE; PS; 760-327-1700 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Drag Queen Bingo 9pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Karaoke hosted by Phillip Moore 9pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Ted Quinn’s Open Mic Reality Show Jam 8pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Karaoke 7pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Palm Springs Sound Company MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Mikael Healy 8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8pm-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Tim Burleson 7:45pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760327-4080 Acoustic Open Mic 7pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Ladies Night w/ Rock-A-Holics 7pm

SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Randy Seymon 8pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 Demetrious and Co. VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Mike Costley’s Trio 6:30-10pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Alex Santana 5-8pm THE WINE EMPORIUM; LQ; 760-565-5512 Acoustic Sessions w/ Lance & David 7pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-2300188 Yve Evans and John Bolivar 6pm

WED JANUARY 17

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Daniel Horn 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 DJ Day Presents: Places and Spaces 9pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Jazz Jam w/ Doug MacDonald & Friends 7pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Piano Bar 6pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 On Wednesday We Wear Black w/ DJ Sugarfree 9pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Chris Lomeli 7pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 The Smooth Brothers 7pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 Michael Keeth 6-10pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm CHEF GEORGE’S PICASSO LOUNGE; BD; 760-200-1768 Johnny Meza 7-10pm COACHELLA VALLEY BREWING CO; TP; 760-343-5973 Live and Local w/ TBA 5:308pm CORKTREE; PD; 760-779-0123 Jack Ruvio 6pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill Baker 6pm

ELECTRIC SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-2281199 Karaoke 7:30pm FOX & THE FIDDLE; PD; 760-888-0111 Live Music 7pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Open Mic hosted by Josh Heinz 8pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Live VJ 9pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Live Music LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Hot Rox MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Mikael Healey 8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8pm-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760327-4080 Roger & Friends 7pm PJ’S SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-288-1199 Karaoke w/ KJ Ginger 8pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Eddie Gee 8pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 The Myx 6:30pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 Cinch 6pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Katheryn White 6:30pm TJ’S; PD; 760-345-6744 Derek Jordan Gregg 9pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Barbara Morrison Piano 4:30-6pm, Barry Minniefield 6:30pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Mikole Kaar 5-8pm THE WINE EMPORIUM; LQ; 760-565-5512 DJ 7pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-2300188 Valerie Geason 6:30pm

GOOD GRUB

T

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

THE BEER HUNTER, BETTER THAN EVER!

he popular La Quinta sports bar The Beer Hunter is better than ever! Sporting a crisp clean look, an increase in TV’s, phenomenal beer and food selections, it retains its spot as the top place to be for televised sports spectating in the Coachella Valley.

It had been a while since I’ve stepped into The Beer Hunter. I used to frequent it in the past, mostly for their famous Nacho’s, and dare I admit it, an Irish Car Bomb or maybe two. But the tendency for it becoming a little rowdy at night, and some other dissuading factors ( beer soaked carpet that had been neglected to be changed) made it a maybe, once in a great while place to stop into.

But recently, my boyfriend and I decided to pop in on New Year’s Day, for a little midafternoon libation. We walked in and seriously did a double take. The place looked fantastic!

Gone was the old carpet in the entrance, and along with it, that old beer smell. It had been replaced with sleek wood style flooring, making the space look modern and larger. The area where the video and basketball hoop games once stood (the cause of some of the late night rowdiness), had been switched out for high top dining. The bar itself had been spruced up as well, with cool industrial metal siding. The whole place looked newer, fresher….better.

As we looked around in amazement, I had to find out more about this transformation, and was able to speak with Manager and resident Beer Guru, Jared Moyer. He elaborated on the changes that had been made ever since the new owners, Kevin Steele and John Barber took over. The new

REAL ESTATE

H

January 11 to January 17, 2018

appy New Year everyone! I spoke with a lot of people who are happy to be saying goodbye to 2017 and are optimistically looking forward to a better 2018. One of the great things about getting together with family and friends over the holidays is that you have the opportunity to talk with different generations and hear about their lives and oftentimes their perspective on life. I had several conversations with “Millennials” (those born between 1982 and 2000) that referred to themselves as “Generation Screwed”. They complained of no jobs in their chosen profession or jobs they had to take just to get by, large student loan debt and their lack of hope of ever owning a home. I’ll go into what “Uncle Bruce” shared with these young adults after we take a look at the statistics for home sales here in the Coachella Valley for not only the month of December but the entire year of 2017.

By my count 2018 marks at least a full 10 years since the Real Estate “bubble burst” and the ensuing recession that saw many Coachella Valley home values cut in half. Those of you who have been following these articles know that each of the last three years have successively been better in terms of both the number of sales of residential units (single family houses, condominiums and townhomes) and the increased sale prices of these homes. The big question still remains, has the Coachella Valley Real Estate market fully recovered from the recession yet?

According to the Desert Area MLS as of 1/1/18 there were 711 pending transactions of residential properties here in the Coachella Valley in the month of December. That’s back down from the 1,037 pendings in the previous month (November) but still up slightly when compared to the same time last year when we

owners, who officially took over in October 2016, have a love for sports, and a genuine desire and aptitude to be in, and succeed in the restaurant industry. Their combined drive set them on a course to put their energies together in The Beer Hunter’s resurrection, and the result turned out to be more than beneficial to the local sports bar scene. “People who haven’t been here for a while are pleasantly surprised, giving us positive feedback,” said Moyer.

The new and improved sports bar has incorporated changes besides the interior décor.

They now have 52 TV’s located throughout the space, for the convenience of their patrons. You can basically be anywhere in the restaurant, and have a clear view of a TV. Their beer selection has also been elevated by including specialty craft beers not readily available in other bars. Beers such as Hangar 24 Barrel Roll Series, Galaxy, Gardner and Goose Island Bourbon County Barrel-aged Stout (BCBS), give their beer menu an added edge. In total, they offer 27 draft beers and 175 bottled beers. For those who take their beers seriously, the TapHunter phone app gives alerts to what’s new in beer at The Beer Hunter.

Guests can still find classic Beer Hunter favorite food items on the menu. Selections such as their gooey, cheesy Classic Macho Nachos are still mouthwatering, as well as their famous Ain’t No Thing But a Chicken Wing, wings. Executive Chef Justin Hilton has also thrown some menu twists to the selections, with items which include, Brussel Sprouts (bleu cheese, bacon, balsamic and roasted tomatoes), Loaded Tots ( BH famous melted cheese, bacon,

scallions, sour cream), Mexican Street Corn Bites (roasted corn, 4 cheese, peppers, golden fried, salsa and guacamole), Short Rib Sliders (gouda, roasted peppers, arugula, chipotle aioli), Dr. Feelgood (house-made cauliflower patty, onion marmalade, bleu cheese, aioli), plus a variety of Burgers, Stone Baked Pies, Salads, Sandwiches and so much more.

If the above items go beyond your diet plan, not to worry, as they also have a Live Well menu.

Health conscience options include, California Chicken Wrap (free range organic chicken, turkey bacon, avocado, lettuce, tomato and e.v.o.o mayo), Dr. Myers Healthy Hash (2 scrambled eggs, bacon, spinach, goat cheese and avocado), and Flower Child (local organic mixed greens,

GOOD BYE 2017, HELLO 2018!

had only 702 pending sales. The drop in sales activity from November to December is totally expected as many homebuyers’ plans get put on hold until the New Year as their thoughts shift from buying houses to buying gifts for their families and friends. The continued increase in sales activity over last year’s numbers bodes very well for a continued trend of a higher volume of sales in 2018. In November there were 677 solds and we were back up considerably in December with 795 solds. That is by far better than last year’s home sales in December (2016) when we sold only 702 homes. Our Total Sales for 2017 finished at 10,213 homes compared to the Total Sales for 2016 when we sold only 9,173 homes.

Statistically 2017 exceeded last year’s number of sales by just slightly less than 13%. This is the third year in a row where more homes were sold than the year before and at a higher average sales price. But have we fully recovered from the recession yet? I guess it depends on how we look at “fully recovered”. According to the Desert Area MLS “Statistics” for the Coachella Valley in 2005 there were 10,924 homes sold with an average sales price of $492,960.00 and a total sales volume of $4,941,431,187.00 (yes, that’s almost 5 billion!). By 2007 the average sales price had increased to its highpoint of $552,412.00 but there were only 5,948 homes sold with a total volume of $3,285,748,693.00. By comparison, in 2017 we sold 10,213 homes with an average sales price of $434,139.00 and a total sales volume of $4,330,971,862.00. So our average sales price is still approximately 22% less than the average sales price high mark in 2007. In terms of the number of homes sold, 2017 is only 6% less than the highest year of 2005. These two comparisons when taken separately would indicate that we

BY DENISE ORTUNO tomato, cucumber sunflower seeds and choice of dressing) among other selections.

By chance if you enjoy dining out and watching a game with your pooch, The Beer Hunter has both of you covered. Their renovated patio is pet friendly, even offering a Pet Menu with available items such as a Hamburger Patty, Chicken Breast, Doggy Treats and more, all served in little doggy bowls of course. They really do have something for everyone.

Like every respectable sports bar should, The Beer Hunter offers up a Happy Hour Monday thru Friday, 3pm to 6pm and again from 9pm to 11pm, with hefty drink and food discounts.

Come by for their Late Night menu served until 1am, while playing some pool, shuffle board, or just hanging out being social by the Jute Box (21 and over please). Make sure to check out their website for special events.

It’s always great to see local businesses improve and thrive, and The Beer Hunter in La Quinta is a perfect example of that. With an updated look, fresh take on their beer and food menu and a sincere enthusiasm to put forth the best to their guests, The Beer Hunter is truly, better than ever!

The Beer Hunter is located at 78-483 Hwy 111, La Quinta, Ca 92253 For more information visit www. thebeerhunter.com.

BY BRUCE CATHCART

have not yet fully recovered from the recession… but when considered together the reasonable conclusion is that 2017 was a great year for real estate sales here in the Coachella Valley!

Our inventory of homes for sale stayed roughly the same this month with 3,874 homes available on December 31, 2017 compared to 3,836 homes available on December 1, 2017.

Despite earlier fears that we would be faced with a critical shortage of homes for sale here in the Coachella Valley it appears that our inventory is increasing right on schedule and keeping our market in equilibrium where the inventory is adequate enough to meet the demand. There seems to be a lot of optimism in our Valley for the coming year. We’ll just have to watch and see if this keeps our trends of higher sale prices and more sale transactions going throughout 2018.

Looking around our Christmas tables this year I noticed that there were hardly any old people at our gathering. When I commented on this to my brother he pointed out that we were now the old people! When I was the same age that the millennials are today I really never thought I would live to be this old. I am part of the Baby Boomers generation, the ones that are blamed by the millennials for the whole participation trophies thing and the broken promise that if they worked hard, went to college they could be and do anything they wanted when they became adults. That was our dream for our children and based upon our experience, that is what we expected for them. The truth is that the millennials came of age, many with large student loans, in tough economic times where there were fewer jobs and more people competing for them.

Yes, these kids got a raw deal… but they are not screwed. The reason is that they have time on

their side. The screwed generation is that portion of the baby boomers that are now in their 60’s and 70’s who lost their jobs and/or their house and spent their retirement savings to survive those same bad economic times. They are really screwed and will likely be looking to move back in with their kids! My advice to the millennials is the same advice I have been giving for the past 36 years to baby boomers, Next Gen, Gen X&Y. Work hard at whatever job you have, pay your debt off and then buy a house! Live within your means and either pay that mortgage off or have enough in retirement income/accounts/savings to offset that mortgage for as long as you live.

Economic times are getting better and interest rates are still very low. Now is the time to make goals not just resolutions. See your trusted real estate professional for more information on how you can make this happen.

Join me each month this year as we keep a close eye on our Coachella Valley real estate market. If you have a real estate question or concerns please email me at the address below.

Bruce Cathcart is the Broker/Co-Owner of La Quinta Palms Realty, “Your Friendly Professionals” and can be reached by email at bycathcart@ laquintapalmsrealty.com or visit his website at www.laquintapalmsrealty.com.

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January 11 to January 17, 2018

HADDON LIBBY

B

itCoin is an electronic or cryptocurrency that most have heard of but few understand.

To understand what a Bitcoin is, you need to acknowledge that money as we know it is based on centralized monetary systems run by the governments of the world. Bitcoin is just the opposite as it is a decentralized monetary system with no central authority of any kind.

The biggest problem to a decentralized monetary system is that you have to have a mechanism that keeps everyone from printing money…the way most governmentrun central banks do. Every Bitcoin in the system has to be based on something.

Somehow, this decentralized system with no central authority has to be able to keep count of real Bitcoins versus fake ones.

The general consensus was that it was impossible to solve this problem…until a person or group using the fake name of Satoshi Nakamoto figured it out. To this day, Satoshi’s identity is unknown.

Satoshi’s solution was to replace the central authority needed with existing currencies and replace it with a consensus of computers that authenticate every transaction real time. Those computers are paid in Bitcoins for serving as authenticators.

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EXPLAINING BITCOIN

At the most basic level, a Bitcoin is no more than data on a spreadsheet. What makes it unique is that it is a real-time spreadsheet stored on every computer in the network. If the buyer, seller and network do not agree on specifics, the transaction fails. Due to the way the program was originally written, the system makes each user anonymous with the authentication process immune to hacking through complex algorithms and a short time allowed for each authentication.

Stated more simply, Bitcoin is no more than a promise to pay by the rest of the network of Bitcoin holders. It sounds awfully similar to the U.S. Dollar or any other currency issued by a central authority.

The primary difference is that once 21 million Bitcoins have been created, no more can ever be made. At present, 16.8 million Bitcoins are in circulation.

Five years ago one Bitcoin was worth a little less than $8.00. Today the same Bitcoin is worth approximately $16,000. While most see this as a speculative bubble that typically happens when the stock market is as hot as it has been, many see this as a hedge against a world where governments print endless amounts of money, while running up mind-boggling debt loads.

As the ownership of a Bitcoin is

DALE GRIBOW ON THE LAW

THEY’RE BACK!

N

o, I am not talking about the Cicadas that would arrive by the billions every 17 years in PS and take over every inch of CV property. I remember as a little boy watching city employees with large wide shovels scooping up hundreds of dead “bugs” at a time and putting them in very large trash containers.

Instead I am referencing the hordes of tourists (who do bug some of us at times) we happily welcome every year. These “snow birds” help our economy but also create traffic jams.

“Snowbird” traffic results in more cars on the road getting into accidents and arrested for a DUI. This week I will analyze the DUI impact of more cars on the road and what a driver should do to avoid that situation happening to them. Next week I will look at how it also affects the increase in auto accidents...and then what to do when that happens.

There is a focus on arrests during “snowbird season” which truly occurs throughout California. There were 936 DUI Arrests in California, a 22 percent increase, and 40 innocent drivers killed in CA during the NY’s weekend alone. This was a 38 percent increase over the same period last year. Of the 40 people who were killed on the road, 13 people were not wearing their seat belts per the CHP said.

Chances are none of the affected drivers read and followed my weekly warning:

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DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE, CALL A TAXI, LYFT OR UBER.........THEY ARE A LOT CHEAPER THAN GETTING AN ACCIDENT OR ARREST AND CALLING ME.....LAW ENFORCEMENT WARNS “DRIVE SOBER OR GET PULLED OVER” Year in and year out every weekly legal column has the missive to GIVE THIS CARD TO ARRESTING OFFICER WITH LICENSE/ INSURANCE. Unfortunately most drivers get black and white fever when stopped by the police. This is especially true after they have been drinking and they forget everything they have read to do.

My warning suggests saying: “Upon advice of my attorney, Dale Gribow, I exercise my right to remain silent until you contact him at (760) 837-7500 or dale@dalegribowlaw.com for his Ok. My attorney has advised me the VOLUNTARY FIELD SOBRIETY AND BREATH TESTS, at the scene, are OPTIONAL (unless one is on probation). Thus I ELECT not to take them. I want to cooperate and am happy to take a BLOOD TEST.” There are so many things drivers don’t understand about drinking. I have explained in previous columns that the kind of mixer you drink affects how you will feel the next day.

Some people think sugar makes a hangover worse. But sugar actually causes your body to absorb alcohol more slowly. So a liquid that has sugar makes a better mixer than diet drinks. Thus drink cokes not diet cokes.

Most people don’t know that drinking is harder on a woman’s body. In general, pound for pound, women’s bodies have less water

anonymous, no one knows who holds the most Bitcoins. It is known that the largest single address (better thought of as an account by you and me) has 179,203 Bitcoins worth approximately $3 billion U.S. Dollars.

At present, there are nearly 25,000 Bitcoin millionaire and 11 billionaire addresses. A savvy Bitcoin owner uses many addresses as protection against the loss of an authentication key. Like paper money, once the key is lost, you cannot get it back.

North Korea is one of the biggest beneficiaries and thieves of Bitcoins at present although the Chinese and Russians are in the game as well. While all three use their computers for legitimate authentication purposes, each have

been known to launch attacks on bitcoin exchanges with North Korea being the most notorious.

While most Bitcoin owners keep their identities anonymous, Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss have been public in stating that they are Bitcoin billionaires. You might remember that the Winklevoss’ sued Mark Zuckerberg for their share of Facebook which they stated Zuckerberg created with them.

The FBI is also one of the billionaires since seizing control of the black market website, Silk Road. Silk Road was the online dark-website where one could buy and sell drugs, people or hire assassins.

While a cryptocurrency world is inevitable, the verdict is out on BitCoin and their cryptocurrency brethren.

Haddon Libby is Managing Director at Winslow Drake Investment Management and can be reached at HLibby@ WinslowDrake.com or 760.449.6349. For additional information, please visit www.

WinslowDrake.com.

to dilute alcohol, and more alcohol gets absorbed into the bloodstream. So a woman can drink less than a man and still get a mansized hangover. And a woman who drinks heavily is likely to get alcohol-related organ damage sooner than a man would, even if she drinks less. And we should all remember it is not the number of drinks but rather the amount of alcohol in each drink.

To avoid a DUI you must know your rights: 1. Field Sobriety and Breath Tests at the scene are OPTIONAL. 2. If no drink for a few hours, request a Blood test at the station.

3. It takes about an hour for a drink to go in or out of your blood.

4. A DMV hearing MUST be requested within 10 days or right to a hearing is lost and license is suspended.

5. Silence is Golden and Handcuffs are Silver so DON’T TALK to POLICE.

6. DUI requires both a DMV and Court hearing.

7. The 23152 a & b filing gives the DA two (2) bites of the apple.

8. A 23152b only deals with an alcohol reading of .08 or more 9. If you lose the DMV hearing your license is suspended for 4 months and if you plead in court or lose at trial your license is again suspended by DMV.......but you do not have to endure two suspensions.

DALE GRIBOW “TOP LAWYER” - Palm Springs Life (DUI) 2010-2018 “TOP LAWYER”-Inland Empire Magazine Nov, 2016 10.0 AVVO Perfect Peer Rating

ART SCENE

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

BY DEOGRACIO SECRETARIO

‘THE NEW FEMINIST GAZE’ ALL-FEMALE ART SHOW AT SIMEON DEN GALLERY WELCOMES PROGRAMMING PARTNER WYLD WOMXN COLLECTIVE

A

ll eyes will be on all-female art show ‘The New Feminist Gaze’ in January 2018 at Simeon Den Gallery, located at 68895 Perez Rd # I-27 in Cathedral City, CA. Curated by Simeon Den and Nalani Hernandez-Melo, the show explores the complexities of being a woman through the eyes of the current generation of Feminists and what it means to be a Feminist today. With a focus on women empowerment and education, Simeon Den Gallery has partnered with local feminist creative collective Wyld Womxn to activate the space and feature related programming, discussions, and performances.

Save the Dates: Sat. Jan. 13th, 2018: Opening Reception 6:30p.m. to 8:00p.m.

Tue. Jan. 16th, 2018 - Panel Discussion 6:30p.m. to 8:30p.m.

Sun. Jan. 21st, 2018 - Performances 5:00p.m. to 7:00p.m.

Wed. Jan. 24th, 2018 - Panel Discussion 6:30p.m. to 8:30p.m.

Sat. Jan. 27th, 2018 - Mercado + Closing Reception 2:00p.m. to 6:00p.m.

Three artists from this show will be selected to present in a group show later in the year and this exhibit and it’s themes are slated to be an annual event.

“Wyld Womxn is proud to partner with Simeon Den Gallery,” says the feminist collective’s founder Michelle Castillo, “The collective resonates with the gallery’s values of highlighting diversity, intergenerational connectivity, and inclusivity which helps to bridge the gaps within the community.”

The slate of programs will expand upon the art show theme, creating intersectional

dialogue and offering dimensions through multiple creative disciplines.

From the eclectic to the sublime, Simeon Den directs a non-traditional gallery and e-commerce enterprise that showcases his personal métier in the contemporary and temple arts. His contemporary art niche attends to the spiritual and transcendent schools, the minimalist style, the Zen aesthetic, the figurative and whimsical influences, and the political and subversive beauty of LGBTQ expressions in art. The gallery also functions as a community building effort by hosting and offering classes and workshops in the Temple Arts— yoga, tai ch’I, meditation groups, sound bath sessions, a writers circle, feng shui services, bereavement group, Zen brush painting, and various performance-based activities including Butoh Dance and live improvised music making.

Information regarding the month long programming are on the Gallery website: www.simeondengallery.com Simeon Den Gallery with the Wyld Womxn Creative Collective – “The New Feminist Gaze” – Opening exhibit on Saturday, January 13, 2018 – Simeon Den Gallery, 68895 Perez Rd, #I-27. Media Contact: Simeon Den, 310-801-6538

January 11 to January 17, 2018

LICENSETOLIVELARGE

BY ELIZABETH SCARCELLA

LICENSE TO LIVE LARGE

H

ave you ever wondered how some people appear to have it all? How life seemingly flows effortlessly and success falls at their feet? What their secret sauce contains and where you can find the ingredients? Yea, I did too.

In my quest to figure out how I, too, could live such a fulfilled easy going successful life, I began to study well known business giants like Bill Gates, Warren Buffet and Larry Ellison. I followed icons in the digital world like Marie Forleo, Gabby Bernstein and Gary Vaynerchuk. I became engrossed in spiritual gurus like Wayne Dyer and Louise Hay and Marianne Williamson.

The common thread in all of them, and many others, is an unshakable belief in themselves. They chose to not only believe, but feel deep in their core, that they, like every one of us, is granted a License to Live Large…if only we exercise the willingness to be so bold.

This column is dedicated to you, Coachella Valley. It is my desire to champion you to find fulfillment by determining what’s next in your life. It is my belief that we learn best by gleaning what is applicable in others’ stories; those we relate to through commonalities or similar pasts. I will be highlighting a variety of individuals from our community, whether it be a local business owner, a philanthropist or a stayat-home mom or retiree who has risen from despair to delight.

In this week’s edition, it is my pleasure to introduce you to Brenda Direen, a Lifestyle Planner. Having met Brenda only a few months ago, I quickly became intrigued in how she remains perpetually enthusiastic about life with a true passion to Live Large.

LTLL: Brenda, do you remember when you decided to Live Large?

Brenda: “Actually, I have held the motto to Living Out Loud since childhood because I’ve always been filled with visions of wanting to live my passions now rather than building a bucket list later in life. I’ve traveled the US from coast to coast, owned one of the first Aveda concept salons, as that was a great solution to eliminating the harsh chemicals and sexist comments found in the traditional salon industry. During that

time I started sailing, a childhood passion, I just HAD to explore further. I chose to sell my successful salon, buy a sailboat and live out my childhood dream for the next 1.5 years. Had I not decided to jump ship (pun intended) on the relationship with my life and sailing partner, it would have been an amazing time sailing around the world.”

LTLL: What did your family and friends think of your Live Out Loud lifestyle?

Brenda: “This is what so many seem to not understand, living your dreams does not create unpredictability, it creates an open flow of what is possible. This belief is something I have taught my newly married and thriving-in-life son. I wanted him to understand that exploring your passions, whether they work out or dissipate, is what matters most, not living societies’ version of security. Additionally, it’s equally important to treat all people with kindness and respect, as we all coexist.”

LTLL: How did you wind up in Palm Springs…that’s a far departure from Ohio?

Brenda: “It only took one visit to Coachella Valley for me to know that I belonged here…I had a visceral reaction to the Modernism and gorgeous landscape.

I saved a few pennies and moved to the Valley in February, 2017. Although moving and starting over is always scary, especially at 56 years old, however, I knew that I made the life commitment to Live Large and Live Out Loud. I must continue to pursue my dreams and continue my open flow.”

LTLL: Lastly, what one piece of advice do you want to share with the Coachella Valley?

Brenda: “I truly believe that every one of us can live a life of ease and joy if we follow our passions rather than our fears. It’s our own choice to do so.”

Whether you decide to move across country and start a brand new career like Brenda, or you choose to pursue a hobby or sport you’ve always been interested in, or begin a new relationship even after you’ve been hurt…whatever the occasion, it’s our right to Live Large.

We want to hear from YOU, Coachella Valley! Have you exercised your License to Live Large? Please email me at elizabeth@ coachellavalleyweekly.com for a chance to be interviewed and featured in an upcoming issue.

Elizabeth Scarcella, Founder of Go Get Young and Co-owner of Rx2Fitness, is a Holistic Counselor and Anti-Aging Coach who enjoys helping her clients create the life of their dreams. For more info, contact her at gogetyoung@gmail.com.

Brenda Direen, Founder of Palm Springs Lifestyle Management, helps her clients plan special events, organize their homes and closets and inspires them to keep their homes looking snazzy. For more info, contact her at brenda@brendadireen.com.

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January 11 to January 17, 2018

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

FOR SALE: RECREATIONAL MARIJUANA!

P

alm Springs in winter is one of the best places to be in the country.

People are lining up not only to enjoy the sunshine and Film Festival, but also to purchase marijuana.

On January first, it became legal in the State of California for licensed dispensaries to sell Adult Use “recreational” marijuana to those 21 years and older. As significant and auspicious as the end of marijuana prohibition is, for dispensaries it is more work than celebration.

ORGANIC SOLUTIONS OF THE DESERT “It’s a way bigger undertaking than I ever thought,” said Jim Camper, Owner, Organic Solutions of the Desert, Palm Springs. “It’s been crazy. We had over 150 rec [recreational] patients on our first day open and it has stayed constant.”

Including Camper’s regular medical patients, Organic Solutions of the Desert (OSD) is serving 300 to 350 people a day.

“This is a tourist destination. Ninety percent of the rec patients were from outof-state,” said Camper. “We know exactly because we have a page they fill out to buy from us. Many said they came for the weather and the marijuana.”

OSD has been in business for seven years and Camper was one of the first in the city legally licensed to sell medicinal marijuana.

He incorporated in 2006 and has been in the cannabis industry his entire adult life.

Camper received his “temporary” state license to sell recreational marijuana December 31, at 6:00pm. California is still in the process of hammering out legal details and much of the regulations are in flux.

“Since January 1st was a holiday, we decided to close the doors and get to work,” said Camper. “We had all hands on board and we worked all day to get ready to open on January 2nd. It was totally necessary.

There was a lot to do to be prepared.”

DOUBLING STAFF Camper hired new help bringing his total employees to 22, but anticipates he will have to double his staff to make things run even more smoothly.

“I didn’t anticipate long lines where people might stand for hours like in Colorado or Las Vegas when those states made rec legal,” said Camper. “People here waited 30 minutes. For the most part no one complained. People seemed fine with it.”

OSD is located on Ramon Road, directly south of Palm Springs International Airport.

It is a light industrial area and the building is nondescript with no windows. Jets and

28

private planes pass directly overhead so close it’s jaw dropping to watch.

“We have had all kinds of questions from new patients and our regular medical users as well,” said Camper. “The biggest concerns are the taxes and how it’s going to affect them. They want to know the difference between buying rec and medical. A lot of people are upset about the tax rate, but hey, they knew it was coming. They voted on it. All we can to do is help them out with suggestions.”

Camper did his best to make sure he had everything covered his first day open for recreational sales, including additional parking. To avoid traffic jams and not draw attention from the city, he negotiated with neighboring businesses for extra spots. And, it worked. As one car pulled out, another took its place.

“The city has been good,” said Camper.

“They’re easy to work with. I haven’t had any problems. I just want to make sure I’m doing everything I can, and doing it right.”

The OSD lobby was full. Every seat was taken, a few stood. The average age looked to be 40ish and older.

BUSTLING BUSINESS Behind the scenes, away from the dispensary, people were hard at work managing product; their gloved hands checking and rechecking buds and canisters.

Camper’s office is roomy, devoid of décor. It’s his personal space and geared toward work, not entertaining. It’s not neat, but it’s clear he knows where everything is.

Stacks of paperwork are grouped together by big black metal paperclips an inch thick.

There is no attempt to hide the profuse, heavy bundles of blue cables strapped and draped along the walls supplying current to a myriad of security cameras and television monitors.

An eighteen-gallon container sits open with a large taught bag of marijuana Camper had to reject because the grower did not have proper paperwork that made it legal for Camper to sell. Staff interrupts with questions, holding delivery slips and confused about what they should do, requiring Camper to check on the situation and make a decision himself.

“There is so much that we don’t know. So much is being changed and put out there,” said Camper as he hefted a sheaf of printed material. “I’ve got to make sure we are on top of it. I’ve worked for a straight 16 days.

We are just trying to keep our heads above water with all the new regulations.”

BY HEIDI SIMMONS

CANNABIS CORNER

Relying on his attorneys for the more complex questions, Camper constantly checks the State’s various websites for upto-date information.

“You have to know where to look and what for,” said Camper. “There’s a lot of reading involved.”

LOCALLY GROWN Most of OSD’s product is grown regionally. Twenty percent is grown on site; the rest is grown in Southern California.

Camper does a little business with Northern California, but chooses to support local growers as much as he can.

“We don’t know how that is going to change because many growers don’t have their licenses,” said Camper. “I’ve heard 80 percent may not be compliant. I’ve lost some of my best growers, because they don’t want to go the legal route. Some of it’s because of cost, some don’t know how. It’s just insane with the State right now. What has to be done. The requirements. It’s hard to keep up. Purchasing is more complicated than before and there is no way to get everything in order overnight.”

Camper has also obtained a distribution license so he can better control and monitor his own product. OSD has 8,000 square feet of dedicated cultivation space on location.

That amount is now considered a small grow operation as cultivators are coming into the valley setting up massive growing facilities covering hundreds of thousands of square feet.

“There was supposed to be a five-year hold on large corporations entering the market,” said Camper. “But, it looks like they have already started in the business.”

Camper always believed marijuana would be legal someday. However, he though it would be sooner.

“When I was a kid, I thought it’d happen by the time I turned forty. It’s 25 years later and it is a lot more work than I anticipated.”

MARIJUANA IS TRUMPED Last week, the Trump administration announced it would end the Obama-era lax Federal policy that protected State’s rights to sell both medicinal and adult use marijuana.

“It doesn’t surprise me that they want to shut it down,” said Camper. “Worse, I think Sessions [Jeff Sessions, US Attorney General] has higher expectations than that. For what it’s worth, I hope Trump will at least allow the medical, but I’m concerned he’ll turn them [the Feds] loose on the recreational, which is scary. Why couldn’t he have done it six months or two weeks ago?”

Camper is optimistic that the states that allow legal marijuana and are heavily invested have too much tax revenue to lose, and will fight back against any move to stop marijuana sales.

“But, it doesn’t mean we might not get raided,” said Camper. “It still leaves us susceptible. I haven’t had to look over my shoulder for seven years since we were legal to do business here. Now I have to worry and wonder if I should have even gotten my

rec license.”

WORLD EXPLORER Camper was born and raised in Los Angeles. After graduating high school he went to Europe. What started out as a threemonth tour before attending college, turned into eight years of exploring the world.

“I traveled around Iran while the Shah was in office,” said Camper. “I was in Afghanistan before the Russians invaded.

I spent a year and a half in Nepal. I had a curiosity to see for myself. I wanted to go to the source and buy hash for four cents a gram.”

In the 90s, Camper was diagnosed with Hepatitis C, which he contracted during his travels. At the time, there was no simple way to treat Hep C and Camper turned to marijuana.

“That’s why I went into this business,” said Camper. “I knew people could be helped with medical marijuana. I can’t say if it helped my condition much, but it was a better choice than what the doctors were proposing. It was either hardcore meds or wait it out. Recently, I took Harvoni and the Hep C was gone just like that.”

HELPING THE HOMELESS For now, Camper’s clientele are 75 percent medicinal and 25 percent recreational. With all the changes in the laws, Camper is concerned that he may no longer be able to help the homeless or offer “compassion meds” for those in need like he had before.

“We can no longer give anything away for free,” said Camper. “It’s a shame. We have to explain that ‘patient appreciation’ days are done. But, I want to find a way to help the people who most need it. Hopefully, this will all get ironed out.”

FAMILY BUSINESS OSD is a family business. Two of Camper’s four children work for him. His mother is the office manager; his father is Chief Financial Officer. Camper’s folks owned Torre Nissan in La Quinta before they “retired.” They have brought not only their business acumen, but also their favorite dedicated employees.

“My mom is a mother to everyone here,” said Camper. “I’ve got a great staff. Most of have been with me for years.”

Camper looks more weathered than his 65 years. But, behind his laid-back California stoner charm is a wise man, shrewd entrepreneur and successful business operator.

“I built this business from scratch,” said Camper. “It’s been seven years, so I want to be sure it all goes as planned. It’s complicated right now and I need to know everything is done properly. It’s just the way I am. It’s been a long ride, but a good ride.”

Camper is considering retiring, maybe in a year, to let the next generation take over.

“I’d like to travel,” said Camper.

Organic Solutions of the Desert 4765 Ramon Road, Palm Springs. Hours 9am to 7pm Monday thru Saturday, 10am to 6pm on Sundays. For daily specials and more information, call 760 832-7813.

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DRIVE HIGH, GET A DUI

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ccording to the California Highway Patrol, over 17,000 people are killed every year in alcohol-related traffic collisions. An estimated 30 percent of Americans will be involved in an alcoholinvolved traffic accident in his or her lifetime, and one American life is lost every 22 minutes in an alcohol-related traffic collision.

It is illegal to drive with a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) that is 0.08% or more.

However, a BAC below .08% does not mean that it is safe or legal to drive. For some, one drink can be too much.

Law enforcement unequivocally states there is no safe way to drive while under the influence.

MARIJUANA DUI While everyone knows that driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol is not only dangerous it’s deadly, what about driving under the influence of marijuana?

With cannabis now legal for adult “recreational” use in the State of California, which began January 1, law enforcement continues to take measures to ensure safety and stop those driving under the influence whether it’s alcohol, drugs or marijuana.

“Anything that effects your central nervous system impairs your judgment, slows your reaction time,” said Mike Radford, California Highway Patrol Public Information Officer. “All these things are dangerous behind the wheel.”

California Vehicle Code 23152(e) makes it unlawful for a person who is under the influence of any drug to drive a motor vehicle.

“Our procedures pertaining to DUI is business as usual,” said Radford. “We are going to treat DUI as we did before, we always knew it was illegal to drive a car

BY HEIDI SIMMONS

under the influence of marijuana. Even with marijuana legal in the State, that doesn’t mean it’s okay to drive.”

IMPAIRED DRIVING Driving under the influence of marijuana is a crime.

Operating a motor vehicle while your mental abilities are impaired by marijuana, to the extent that you are unable to drive with the caution of a sober person using ordinary care is considered a DUI. Identifying and proving DUI of marijuana is more challenging than DUI of alcohol.

“In preparation for marijuana legalization, all California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers were required to take an additional 24 hours of training,” said Radford. “It was something the state felt was necessary. Training focused on drug impairment. With every stop, we are paying attention to the signs and symptoms of being impaired.”

Where as blood alcohol content is considered a reliable test, it cannot determine marijuana use.

NO CONSENSUS Currently, there is no expert consensus as to how much marijuana is sufficient to impair one’s ability to drive. Law enforcement can only use similar techniques they apply to alcohol.

“Often, when people are arrested for DUI alcohol, it is quite common for them to have marijuana in their system as well,” said Radford. “Arresting people for driving under the influence of marijuana is not a new thing.”

PENALTIES Conviction for DUI of marijuana is the same as the California DUI penalties involving alcohol.

Whereas the effects of alcohol on

January 11 to January 17, 2018

CANNABIS CORNER

humans has been well studied and documented, marijuana has not undergone rigorous analysis due to the fact that cannabis continues to be recognized by the Federal government as a Schedule 1 drug, making it illegal to adequately test or study.

Over the New Year celebration, Radford could not say if anyone in the Coachella Valley was arrested strictly for driving under the influence of marijuana.

“The CHP doesn’t have a test where people can blow into anything that will tell us the exact amount of marijuana a person has ingested,” said Radford. “It’s up to officers to look for certain signs such as speech, red-watery eyes, odor, responses to questions and the field sobriety test. Based on all those things together, the officer makes a decision if he believes a person is driving under the influence of marijuana.”

NANOGRAMS PER MILLILITER After a driver is arrested for DUI, law enforcement requests a blood test to determine how many nanograms per milliliter of marijuana are in the blood. But that number is not definitive, measurement varies from county to county and determination is ultimately made by the District Attorney’s office.

CVW reached out to the Riverside District Attorney’s office requesting the nanograms per milliliter they use to prosecute marijuana DUI, but they did not reply.

“Testing is difficult because there are so many ways to ingest marijuana today,” said Radford. “It can vary by the strain, whether it’s an edible, if the person has been using a vape pen or smoked the actual plant.”

Whether medicinal or recreational, marijuana users must abide by the laws.

If someone only uses cannabis at night for pain or recreationally on weekends, marijuana remains detectable in the body.

“It’s important to understand that marijuana and THC can be used in many ways. It’s not just about detecting the aroma of burned or un-burned marijuana anymore. We have to look more carefully at the signs and symptoms as opposed to just smell,” said Radford. “There is so much to pay attention to.”

TETRAHYDROCANNABINOL - THC Marijuana affects people differently.

Generally, it is considered to take 3 to 6 hours to metabolize marijuana out of a person’s system after use. However, marijuana can stay in the blood for one to two days after a single consumption.

For heavy users, it can take a full week to metabolize.

Marijuana’s psychoactive ingredient is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). The cannabinoids are fat-soluble which means it travels from the blood to fatty tissues where it is stored for longer periods even up to a month.

Certain blood tests can detect small traces of THC. Testing for impairment uses nanograms per milliliter of THC metabolite

in your system.

PRODUCT RUMORS General Nutrition Center (GNC) and other companies are rumored to have products that make marijuana undetectable in the body. GNC employees are not allowed to comment or make recommendations regarding “beating drug tests” due to the company’s close affiliation with athletic sponsors.

A local GNC salesperson who wanted to remain anonymous, said that customers come in regularly asking for products that might help pass marijuana testing, but said it is only a rumor that such a product exists.

OUT OF STATE The CHP wants people to know that marijuana cannot be transported from state to state even if it is legal in both states.

FEDERAL PARKS “Its important for people to know that marijuana is illegal in Joshua Tree because it is federal land and federal laws apply even if marijuana is legal in California,” said Radford. “You’re not allowed to bring marijuana into the park or ingest it inside the park or for that matter, any Federal park.”

NOT IN THE CAR Similar to illegally having an open alcohol container in a vehicle, no passengers or the driver can ingest marijuana while driving in a motor vehicle.

When driving, marijuana must be in a sealed container.

“Passengers can’t have marijuana unsealed -- or ingest it -- while in the car,” said Radford. “Anytime something is brand new, it may take a few years to make adjustments to the laws. At this point, the laws are well-written, but there is case law happening now that will come out regarding what they considered concealed – is that resealed, heat sealed. I can see that becoming an issue.”

It is legal to transport one ounce of the flower or eight grams of concentrate, such as oil or hash, and six plants.

DON’T USE AND DRIVE “I think there are a lot of people who think it’s perfectly safe to drive under the influence of marijuana,” said Radford.

“They think it calms them down and doesn’t effect them very much, that’s not true. Just because you’re a long-time user, and you feel it’s not impairing you, doesn’t mean it’s not. If you choose to use marijuana, don’t go out on the roads. It has major consequences.”

Officers have been briefed on the new laws and they are encouraged to seek out impaired drivers and arrest them. CHP’s jurisdiction is anywhere in California including Federal Parks.

“We do work within the cities, on the highways, anywhere in the state,” said Radford. “If you are under the influence of marijuana and you feel any effects at all, you should not be driving.”

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January 11 to January 17, 2018

SPORTS SCENE

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BY FLINT WHEELER

$1.3 MILLION SUPER CONTEST WINNERS SHOW IT TAKES LUCK TO BE A GOOD GAMBLER…

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estgate Las Vegas SuperContest winner GRANNYS BOY took down the $1.3 million first place prize on Sunday after capturing the lead in Week 12 in the “ultimate” NFL sports betting contest, and holding it until the end of the 2017 NFL regular season.

Each contestant paid $1,500 as the SuperContest’s field has steadily increased over the past 10 years, swelling from 1,854 in 2016 to a record field of 2,748 entrants this year, pushing the top prize well past one million for the first time ($1,327,284.00 to be exact).

On Sunday after the Lions (-6.5) whipped the Packers in a pretty sweat-free affair, GRANNYS BOY only needed one cover among his four selections in the late slate of games (starting 4:25 pm ET). The Bills, now BFF’s with the Cincinnati Bengals, looked to provide the clincher but the Falcons (-3.5) finished off the Panthers 22-10 sooner, punching their own playoffs ticket in the process.

Picks made in the last week of the Westgate Las Vegas Superbook’s SuperContest rightly draw the most attention, deciding who comes away the big winner. That was perhaps magnified in this inaugural year of SuperContest Gold, which has the same format of five NFL picks per week against the

spread, for 17 weeks, but with one big caveat: winner takes all in the $5,000-per-entrant event.

The Stag Capital team – three longtime friends who first met as Division III football players at Claremont McKenna College in California – held a half-point lead over secondplace Midwest Square heading into the final regular-season Sunday. Both contestants went 4-1 in the final week, so Stag Capital had to have all four of those wins to snare the entirety of the $470,000 prize.

But if you ask Chris Lewert and his fellow Stag Capital teammates Mike Hall and Andy Traba, they’ll tell you it was the last game of Week 16 that saved this trio’s bacon in the 94-entrant contest.

“Philly and the Raiders on Christmas night,” Lewert said to Tilted Sports Media.

“The only way we win is if Philly comes up with a magical six points.”

It was a sloppily played game throughout, and Lewert actually gave up on it while spending time with extended family to wrap up a holiday in the Phoenix area. Traba, at home in Chicago, was tuned in.

“Andy still had the game on. I had kind of put it away,” said Lewert, who lives in Los Angeles. “We were done with dinner, playing cards. Then my phone lights up, and

it lights up again. And again, and again, and again. And I thought, ‘Either someone died, or something good happened.’ Sure enough, something good happened.”

The Eagles made a field goal with 22 seconds left to take a 13-10 lead, still seemingly hopeless to cover the spread of 8.5.

But on the ensuing possession, the Raiders faced fourth-and-10 on the last play of the game and tried a couple laterals to keep that play alive.

But Eagles defensive end Derek Barnett got a scoop-and-score on the play, giving Philadelphia a 19-10 win and Stag Capital an extremely improbable cover. Traba recorded video of the play on his phone and shared it with Lewert.

“We had Philly -8.5. Without those 6 points, it’s an L,” Lewert said. “It was a literal Christmas miracle. Shock is the best description. We couldn’t believe it happened.”

ELDORADO SUNDAY POLO OPENING DAY KICKS OFF A SEASON OF WORLD CLASS POLO IN THE DESERT

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n an absolutely perfect opening day afternoon – presented by Ketel One – in front of a huge crowd, Grant Palmer’s Antelope Junior (Grant Palmer, Patrick Uretz 4, Jimmy Wright 3, Carolyn Anier 1) and Reg Whyte and David Carlson’s Thermal (Reg Whyte, David Carlson, Ernesto Ezcurra 2, Felipe Sordelli 2) polo teams were victorious in their 8 and 4 goal games respectively.

The 8 Goal USPA Coachella Valley Cup saw the Los Angeles native and young polo prodigy Grant Palmer’s Antelope Jr team defeat Calgarian Realtor Gordon Ross’ Remax team 14 - 10 in an exciting match that was a very fitting start to the 2018 season at Eldorado.

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based Manolo Polo featuring the husband and wife combo of Topo & Shannon Mendez alongside Rodrigo Salinas and Lamar Rutherford against the foursome representing Thermal which resulted in a convincing 6 – 1 win to the Desert’s home team.

Opening Day launched the 13 week Sunday Polo program at Eldorado that will continue to run each Sunday at 12pm & 2pm until April 1. Everyone is welcome to attend and entry is just $10 per car.

More information is available at www. eldoradopoloclub.com.

With a huge sell-out crowd in the clubhouse and lively bunch of picnicking tailgaters lining the field, the polo season was certainly in full swing. For over 60 years, Eldorado Polo Club has opened its doors to the community to experience world class polo right here in the Coachella Valley. Each winter, hundreds of horses and their riders descend upon the Desert to participate in three months of intense competition before moving on to other polo events around the US and the World!

The second match of the day was opened with the anthem performed by Jordan Blake and stars and stripes carried around the grounds in spectacular fashion

by Catlin Dix. The match featured San Diego

Contestant BrettFavre44 probably couldn’t believe it either. That entry had the Raiders +8.5 and would have been in first place heading into Week 17, if not for that play. Instead, that contestant dropped to fourth place and had to completely alter the Week 17 strategy – since, again, this was a winner-take-all contest – leading to a 2-3 final week and a fifth-place finish.

“That point made all the difference,” Lewert said. “Otherwise, we have BrettFavre’s picks, and he has ours. You’d be talking to him right now.”

Instead, the buddies from coast to coast – Lewert in L.A., Traba in Chicago and Hall in New York – got the big payout, with an assist from the FootballContest.com proxy service here in Vegas, in order to get all those picks in. Including that one pick that made the impossible seem possible.

“It’s definitely surreal to have it happen,” Lewert said, noting that the trio entered the standard SuperContest the past few years, along with other contests around town. “It’s one of those things where even when you’re close, you’re saying, ‘This is nice, this is nice.’

Then, ‘When’s this gonna be over.’ Then, ‘Oh my god, we won!’”

POLO

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FREE WILL ASTROLOGY

Week of January 11

ARIES (March 21-April 19): I’m happy to inform you that life is giving you permission to be extra demanding in the coming weeks -- as long as you’re not petty, brusque, or unreasonable. Here are a few examples that will pass the test: “I demand that you join me in getting drunk on the truth;” “I demand to receive rewards commensurate with my contributions;” “I demand that we collaborate to outsmart and escape the karmic conundrums we’ve gotten ourselves mixed up in.” On the other hand, Aries, ultimatums like these are not admissible: “I demand treasure and tribute, you fools;” “I demand the right to cheat in order to get my way;” “I demand that the river flow backwards.”

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Are you familiar with the phrase “Open Sesame”? In the old folk tale, “Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves,” it’s a magical command that the hero uses to open a blocked cave where treasure is hidden. I invite you to try it out. It just may work to give you entrance to an off-limits or previously inaccessible place where you want and need to go. At the very least, speaking those words will put you in a playful, experimental frame of mind as you contemplate the strategies you could use to gain entrance. And that alone may provide just the leverage you need.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): While thumping around the Internet, I came across pointed counsel from an anonymous source. “Don’t enter into a long-term connection with someone until you’ve seen them stuck in traffic,” it declared. “Don’t get too involved with them until you’ve witnessed them drunk, waiting for food in a restaurant for entirely too long, or searching for their phone or car keys in a panic. Before you say yes to a deeper bond, make sure you see them angry, stressed, or scared.”

I recommend that you take this advice in the coming weeks. It’ll be a good time to deepen your commitment to people who express their difficult emotions in non-abusive, non-psychotic ways.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): My high school history teacher Marjorie Margolies is now Chelsea Clinton’s mother-in law. She shares two grandchildren with Hillary Clinton. Is that something I should brag about? Does it add to my cachet or my happiness?

Will it influence you to love me more? No, nah, and nope. In the big scheme of things, it’s mildly interesting but utterly irrelevant. The coming weeks will be a good time for Cancerians like you and me to renounce any desire we might have to capitalize on fake ego points like this. We Crabs should be honing our identity and self-image so they’re free of superficial measures of worth. What’s authentically valuable about you?

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): If I were your mentor or your guide, I’d declare this the Leo Makeover Season. First I’d hire a masseuse or masseur to knead you firmly and tenderly. I’d send you to the nutritionist, stylist, dream interpreter, trainer, and life coach. I’d brainstorm with the people who know you best to come up with suggestions for how to help free you from your illusions and infuse your daily rhythm with twenty percent more happiness.

I’d try to talk you out of continuing your association with anything that’s no damn good for you. In conclusion, I’d be thorough as I worked to get you unlocked, debugged, and retooled.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): “It takes an extraordinary person to carry themselves as if they do not live in hell,” says writer D. Bunyavong. In accordance with the astrological omens, I nominate you Virgos to fit that description in the coming weeks. You are, in my estimation, as far away from hell as you’ve been in a long time. If anyone can seduce, coax, or compel heaven to come all the way down to earth for a while, it’s you. Here’s a good way to get the party started: Gaze into the mirror until you spy the eternal part of yourself.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): In accordance with the astrological omens, I encourage you to move the furniture around. If you feel inspired, you might even want to move some of that old stuff right out the door and haul it to the dump or the

© Copyright 2018 Rob Brezsny

thrift store. Hopefully, this will get you in the mood to launch a sweeping purge of anything else that lowers the morale and élan around the house: dusty mementoes, unflattering mirrors, threadbare rugs, chipped dishes, and numbing symbols. The time is ripe, my dear homies, to free your home of deadweight.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): When he was 16 years old and living in New York, Ralph Lifshitz changed his name to Ralph Lauren. That was probably an important factor in his success. Would he have eventually become a famous fashion designer worth $5.8 billion dollars if he had retained a name with “shitz” in it? The rebranding made it easier for clients and customers to take him seriously. With Ralph’s foresight as your inspiration, Scorpio, consider making a seemingly surface-level change that will enhance your ability to get what you want.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): In 1956, the prolific Spanish poet Juan Ramón Jiménez was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature. The award committee praised his “high spirit and artistic purity.”

The honor was based on his last thirteen books, however, and not on his first two. Waterlilies and Souls of Violet were works he wrote while young and still ripening. As he aged, he grew so embarrassed by their sentimentality that he ultimately tried to track down and eradicate every copy. I bring this to your attention, Sagittarius, because I think it’s a favorable time for you to purge or atone for anything from your past that you no longer want to be defined by.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Three centuries ago, Capricorn genius Isaac Newton formulated principles that have ever since been fundamental to scientists’ understanding of the physical universe. In addition, he was a pioneer in mathematics, optics, and astronomy. And yet he also expended huge amounts of time and energy on the fruitless attempt to employ alchemy to transform base metals into solid gold. Those efforts may have been interesting to him, but they yielded no lasting benefits. You Capricorns face a comparable split. In 2018, you could bless us with extraordinary gifts or else you could get consumed in projects that aren’t the most productive use of your energy. The coming weeks may be crucial in determining which way you’ll go.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): A rite of passage lies ahead. It could and should usher you into a more soulful way of living. I’m pleased to report that this transition won’t require you to endure torment, confusion, or passive-aggressive manipulation. In fact, I suspect it could turn out to be among the most graceful ordeals you’ve ever experienced -and a prototype for the type of breakthrough that I hope will become standard in the months and years to come. Imagine being able to learn valuable lessons and make crucial transitions without the prod of woe and gloom. Imagine being able to say, as musician P.J. Harvey said about herself, “When I’m contented, I’m more open to receiving inspiration.

I’m most creative when I feel safe and happy.”

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): The Kalevala is a 19th-century book of poetry that conveys the important mythology and folklore of the Finnish people. It was a wellspring of inspiration for English writer J. R. R. Tolkien as he composed his epic fantasy novel The Lord of the Rings. To enhance his ability to steal ideas from The Kalevala, Tolkien even studied the Finnish language. He said it was like “entering a complete wine-cellar filled with bottles of an amazing wine of a kind and flavor never tasted before.” According to my reading of the astrological omens, Pisces, in 2018 you will have the potential of discovering a source that’s as rich for you as Finnish and The Kalevala were for Tolkien.

Homework: To check out my three-part audio forecasts of your destiny in 2018, go to http://bit. ly/TheBigPicture2018 ---------------------------------------Rob Brezsny Free Will Astrology freewillastrology@freewillastrology.com

January 11 to January 17, 2018

MIND,BODY & SPIRIT

WILLPOWER

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BY BRONWYN ISON

e’re in the first two-weeks of the New Year. Only 8% of people achieve their set goal or resolutions. Why is this percentage so low?

While we may have incredible ambition and all good intentions, most of us have a tendency to set the bar to high right out of the gate. You’ll have greater success if you start with smaller goals that lead you to the big vision.

Your goal may be to lose weight, exercise 4+ times per week, eat healthier, journal everyday, etc. If these will be new habits you’re introducing into your life it may be best to not get over zealous. Changing your diet can be very challenging especially if you’ve not had the greatest eating habits. If you’re exercising two days a week and want to workout at least five, add an extra day in the first two weeks and grow from there. I think you get the gist. Changing your habits will require willpower!

Another suggestion… as harsh as this may sound… you need to excuse yourself from any negative atmospheres. If you have a toxic friend who only makes you feel worse about yourself or life then it’s time to spend less or no time at all with this person or people. You may be in a workplace that’s

negative. Do your best to dismiss yourself from the water cooler when you get that icky gut feeling.

Willpower is knowing you can achieve something all on your own. With more self-control we can avoid so many negative things we often bring on ourselves. Imagine if you had greater willpower to truly say no to something you should be avoiding.

Simply another thought for your New Year.

Remember, you have make the final decision. Do what serves you and the others around you best. Here’s to your incredible WILLPOWER! Bronwyn Ison is the owner of Evolve Yoga and www.bronwynison.com (Online Yoga Classes on Demand) 760-564-YOGA (9642)

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January 11 to January 17, 2018

ASK THE DOCTOR

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BY DR PETER KADILE

Dr. Peter M. Kadile is Board Certified in Family Medicine. He has an integrative, osteopathic medical practice and is also known as the local, house call doctor; Desert House Call Physician. He is on staff at Eisenhower Medical Center and medical director for Serenity Hospice. His office is located in beautiful Old Town La Quinta, 78-100 Main Street, Suite 207, La Quinta, CA 92253. (760) 777-7439. DesertHouseCalls@aol.com. deserthousecalldoc.com.

COLDS, FLU, ANTIBIOTICS AND TAMIFLU

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’m sure you have heard it in the news or know someone who is ill but everyone seems to be sick right now.

My practice has certainly been very busy with cold and flu symptoms.

What is the difference between a cold and the flu?

The flu and the common cold are both respiratory illnesses but are caused by different viruses, They can have similar symptoms but generally flu symptoms are more severe. Cold symptoms usually include head congestion, runny nose, sneezing and a cough. Flu symptoms generally include dry cough, body aches, fevers, extreme fatigue and sometimes nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Colds usually do not progress into serious health conditions, but the flu may develop into pneumonia or other conditions that may require hospitalization.

Colds generally will last less than a week.

If your symptoms persist longer than a week and you’re not starting to feel better, than you should go see your doctor for further evaluation. If your symptoms worsen or you start to develop fevers, shortness of breath, and productive cough, then you should also see your doctor.

Colds and flu are caused by viruses, not bacteria, thus they will not respond to antibiotics, so don’t go running to the urgent care for a Zpack. In severe cases of the flu, a secondary bacterial pneumonia may develop that would require the use of antibiotics.

What about the flu shot ?

The flu shot is not 100% effective in preventing the flu. Its effectiveness varies every year, but generally it is only about 60% effective. There are reports that this year’s flu vaccine is only about 30% effective. Every year a panel of experts decide on which flu strains may become predominant and formulate the vaccine.

The experts make a scientific prediction on which flu strains will need to be vaccinated against. They of course don’t always get it right and sometimes the flu virus can

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mutate and change, rendering the vaccine ineffective.

Tamiflu Antiviral medications such as, Tamiflu, Relenza and Rapivab, are indicated for treatment of the flu. These medications need to be taken within the first 48 hours of developing the flu to be effective. If they are effective, they have only been shown to decrease the duration of the flu by 1-2 days.

They typically cost @ $100 for treatment and are generally not covered by insurance.

They are not without possible side effects; severe skin rashes, blistering, changes in behavior and more commonly nausea and vomiting.

Antivirals are indicated for people who are sick enough to be hospitalized with the flu, those with severe health problems such as asthma, pulmonary disease or heart disease, adults age 65 or older, morbidly obese and residents of nursing homes.

The flu vaccine is meant to prevent you from getting the flu, while antiviral medications mentioned above, treat you if you already have the flu.

Mucus color and antibiotics This subject regarding the color of one’s mucus or phlegm determining the need for antibiotics is another one of the most frustrating medical myths primary care physicians encounter in their practices.

Since we are now into cold and flu season, I deal with this type of question quite frequently in my own practice.

When you have cold symptoms and blow your nose or cough up phlegm that is green, this does not mean you have a bacterial infection which would need antibiotics.

The green color comes from enzymes released by your white blood cells used to fight off the infection. When your sinuses are clogged during a cold, the mucus in the sinuses will stagnate and appear green when you sneeze or blow your nose.

The bottom line is that green mucus or phlegm does not mean you need antibiotics.

LIFE & CAREER COACH

BY SUNNY SIMON

HELP GETTING TO THE GOAL LINE

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ull disclosure: I am an addict. Truth be told, I am addicted to self-help books. Probably no surprise as most coaches have a habit of studying change, how to embrace change and how to help others change. Recently I finished Mel Robbins book, “Stop Saying You’re Fine: The No BS Guide to Getting What You Want.” Robbins delivers straight-forward sharp advice that will probably leave you inspired and ready to make changes where you’ve been in limbo dragging your feet. The best part of the book is a roadmap. Mel not only obliterates those excuses you peddle, by assigning practical homework she shows us how to stay the course.

M.J. Ryan is another executive coach I admire. Each January I take a run through her book, “This Year I Will: How to Finally Change a Habit, Keep a Resolution, or Make a Dream Come True. In this book you’ll find ten tips for making changes and a variety of powerful techniques. Ryan claims her “tools help you tip the scale in your favor.”

Let’s not forget about Brené Brown, Ph.D., L.M.S.W., author and research professor at the University of Houston where she holds the Huffington Endowed Chair. Yeah…I wasn’t sure what that meant either, but apparently in 2016 The Huffington Foundation pledged

$2 million over four years to help expand the reach of her research and work.

Brown’s groundbreaking New York Times best seller is “The Gifts of Imperfection: Let Go of Who You’re Suppose to Be and Embrace Who You Are,” in which Brené shares ten guideposts on the power of what she terms, “wholehearted living.”

Okay, what’s my point other than providing you with a recommended reading list? I believe in peppering our reading lists with books that inspire and give us a firm boot out of our comfort zones. There are volumes of nonfiction books that act as a wing-man guiding, teaching, prompting us to be the best version of ourselves.

Of course burying our heads in self-help tomes only sets the stage for act one. At some point, we must back away from our reading nook and take action. Maya Angelou nailed it in this simple sentence, “Nothing will work unless you do.”

So this year, look for an inspirational guide, devote time to learning new strategies that move you to the goal line. I promise, if you begin by studying and then do the work, you can make 2018 your BEST year yet.

Sunny Simon is the owner of Raise the Bar High Life and Career Coaching. More about Sunny at www.raisethebarhigh.com.

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January 11 to January 17, 2018

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January 11 to January 17, 2018

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CANNABIS CORNER

OPEN FOR BUSINESS: LIST OF CV DISPENSARIES SELLING MEDICINAL AND ADULT USE MARIJUANA

CATHEDRAL CITY Iguana Collective - Medical & Adult Use The OG Collective - Medical & Adult Use No Wait Meds - Medical & Adult Use Cathedral City Releaf Inc - Medical & Adult Use Remedy, Inc - Medical & Adult Use H.O.T.N. Club - Medical & Adult Use West Coast Cannabis Club - Medical & Adult Use Mother’s Earth Farmacy - Medical & Adult Use Green Cross Pharma - Medical & Adult Use Atomic Budz - Medical & Adult Use DESERT HOT SPRINGS Green Leaf Wellness - Medical & Adult Use Brown Dog - Medical & Adult Use SunGrow - Medical Use only Deseret’s Finest - Medical & Adult Use Green Pearl - Medical & Adult Use All About Bud - Medical Use, Adult Use pending DHS Collective - Medical Use, Adult Use pending IVTHC - Medical & Adult Use

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PALM SPRINGS Organic Solutions of the Desert Medical & Adult Use CAPS - Medical only PSA Organica - Medical & Adult Use Palm Springs Safe Access - Medical & Adult Use Joy of Life Wellness Center - Medical Use, Adult use pending Desert Organic Solutions - Medical & Adult Use THOUSAND PALMS CCI - Medical & Adult Use Desert Cann Wellness Center - Medical & Adult Use To find out more about your neighborhood dispensary check online.

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January 11 to January 17, 2018

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January 11 to January 17, 2018

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