Coachella Valley Weekly - February 7 to February 13, 2019 Vol. 7 No. 47 by CV Weekly

coachellavalleyweekly.com • February 7 to February 13, 2019 Vol. 7 No. 47

Jennifer Asbenson

pg6

Haley Clawson

pg8

Josh Ballard

pg9

The Sieve & The Saddle

pg10

Aphrodisiac Jacket

pg11

February 7 to February 13, 2019

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

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 Kirby Club Crawler Nightlife Editor Phil Lacombe Feature Writers Lisa Morgan, Rich Henrich, Heidi Simmons, Noe Gutierrez, Avery Wood, Tricia Witkower, Jason Hall, Olga Rodriguez Writers/Contributors: Robin Simmons, Rick Riozza, Eleni P. Austin, Craig Michaels, Janet McAfee, Bronwyn Ison, Haddon Libby, Dale Gribow, Laura Hunt Little, Sam DiGiovanna, Rob Brezny, Sunny Simon, Dr. Peter Kadile, Bruce Cathcart, Flint Wheeler, Denise Ortuno Neil, Dee Jae Cox, Patte Purcell, Angela Romeo,Aaron Ramson, Lynne Tucker, Elizabeth Scarcella, Aimee Mosco, Matt Claborn, Michelle Anne Rizzio Photographers Robert Chance, Laura Hunt Little, Chris Miller, Iris Hall, Esther Sanchez Website Editor Bobby Taffolla Distribution Phil Lacombe, William Westley

CONTENTS

The Lighthouse Dispensary ................... 3 Breaking The 4th Wall - Review of "Honkey Tonk Laundry" ...................... 5 LGBTQ - Dear Anita Bryant ................... 5 Jennifer Asbenson .............................. 6-7 Haley Clawson........................................ 8 Mizell Senior Center- Stars Among Us... 8 Black History Month.............................. 9 Purple Reign at Agua Caliente.............. 9 Josh Ballard ............................................ 9 The Sieve & The Saddle........................ 10 Aphrodisiac Jacket................................ 11 Consider This - Charlie Faye & The Fayettes ....................................... 12 Art Scene - Desert X.............................. 13 Pet Place ............................................... 14 The Vino Voice ...................................... 15 Club Crawler Nightlife .................... 16-17 Brewtality .............................................. 19 Screeners .............................................. 20 Book Review.......................................... 21 Safety Tips ............................................. 21 Haddon Libby ....................................... 23 Dale Gribow.......................................... 23 Travel - Big Bear Montain................... 24 Sports - CV Youth Hockey.................... 25 Palm Desert Senior Games.................. 25 Ask The Doctor.................................... 26 Awaken w/ Lizzy & Aimee..................... 27 Mind, Body & Spirit............................... 27 Free Will Astrology............................... 28 Life & Career Coach.............................. 28 Cannabis Corner................................... 30

February 7 to February 13, 2019

THE LIGHTHOUSE: BOUTIQUE CANNABIS DISPENSARY

he Lighthouse Cannabis Boutique, opened in April of 2017, is a stateof-the-art cannabis dispensary located in beautiful Coachella, CA just down the road from the Festival Grounds. The compassionate staff can help any guest in finding the perfect product for their needs and desires. Visit the boutique, or go online to LighthouseDispensary.com to learn more, join the VIP Club, and shop and enjoy their private home delivery services. ------------------------------------------------The Top Food Trend for 2019: Cannabis Edibles! With the legalization of cannabis sweeping through the U.S., food products infused with cannabis extract, also known as “edibles,” have emerged as a popular way to enjoy cannabis for both recreational and medicinal purposes. Edibles are considered a safe, discreet, and effective means of attaining the therapeutic and/ or intoxicating effects of cannabis without exposure to the potentially harmful risks of smoking. The budding desire to benefit from edible consumption has led to the creation of new food-infused categories across the market. From milkshakes to dog treats, people are asking, “How do I decide what is right for me?” and “What’s really in these products?” Let’s take a closer look at edibles and demystify the science behind this emerging product! Cannabis edibles include baked goods, candies, gummies, chocolates, lozenges, and beverages. It’s a good idea to start this journey by deciding what you are looking for in terms of results, such as dealing with pain, insomnia, anxiety or other conditions, and then understanding the various cannabis ingredients and their effects when choosing your product. Why, you may ask? Did you know that there are over 100 cannabinoids present in cannabis, with the two main ingredients being THC and CBD? Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) has been used for centuries across the globe for its medicinal purposes and is responsible for inducing the “high” feeling. CBD, or cannabidiol, is the second most abundant ingredient and makes up 40% of the plant extract. While CBD is just as therapeutic as THC, it is non-psychoactive and provides relief from chronic pain and inflammation, and reduces stress and anxiety. So it’s important to decide if you want the high feeling and the relief, or just the relief. Most

products have varying ratios of both THC and CBD. What’s Hot in Cannabis Edibles The edibles market is flooded with choices, so a visit to a dispensary for a chat with the staff is recommended to better understand and chose the best options for you. At The Lighthouse Dispensary, adjacent to the festival grounds, Jennifer M. has been the top source for information and recommendations since cannabis became legal in California! Her wealth of knowledge of the products, benefits and dosage protocol is refreshing. The following products are some of her favorites, based not only on their effectiveness but also on taste and the vendor’s commitment to handcrafted recipes made with the best ingredients. For those struggling with insomnia, Sensi Chews “Insomnia PLUS – non psychoactive” combines CBD with melatonin in a chewy chocolate caramel. What’s better than chocolate, caramel and a good night’s sleep? When you need a break from chronic pain or stress, Plus Gummies, offer relief combined with tropical flavor. Infused with pineapple and coconut flavors, these gummies are low-calorie, gluten-free and kosher! As a CBD-rich edible, these gummies provide relief without the “high.” Another great option for treating stress, insomnia or anxiety is the Korova line of cannabis-infused cookies, including choices that offer different ratios of THC to CBD. Choose from a variety of flavors like vanilla bean, chocolate chip, sativa toffee or their top selling “Saturday Morning” blend. Take movie night to a new level with “Pop-Up Potcorn,” a low-dose satisfying snack that comes in 3 different blends to deliver the right experience for each person. With no GMOs or artificial ingredients, this

product looks, cooks and behaves like any ordinary bag of popcorn, but the flavor is delicious with their cannabis-infused butter with sea salt. And of course, there are beverages. From milkshakes to flavored waters, one of the top choices is Lagunitas Hi-Fi Hops. This hoppy IPA-inspired beverage is a refreshing non-alcoholic choice with a cannabis twist. Zero calories and zero carbs, this cool drink combines both THC and CBD in various levels. A visit to The Lighthouse Dispensary is a great place to start. You’ll be able to ask questions, understand the different THC to CBD ratios, and better determine the edibles that work best for you. CBD purchased outside of a dispensary has been known to include chemicals which could be harmful when consumed. You can rest assured that products purchased at The Lighthouse are all compliant, and have been through the proper testing for chemicals, microbes, and other potentially harmful additives. And here are some tips for using CBD edible products: Keep all of the CBD edibles in a locked, safe place. Keep away from children and pets, as these treats look similar to mainstream candies and sweets. Determine what you are trying to target, and work with a trained staff member to identify the best products to use. Start with a small dosage and be patient. Manage your expectations. Prepare for a subtle, innocuous effect that comes on slowly. The Lighthouse Cannabis Boutique in Coachella, the valley’s only fully licensed dispensary. Offering home-delivery and highly trained and educated staff to assist patrons on their health and wellness journey. Learn more at www.LighthouseDispensary. com or call (442) 256.3627.

February 7 to February 13, 2019

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

A STAGE REVIEW FOR “HONKY TONK LAUNDRY”

southern twang almost always makes something sound funnier. Southern euphemisms and expressions can make you laugh out loud at the image of a one legged man in an ass kicking contest. And while I don’t find humor in women (or men) referring to other women by sexist and derogatory names regardless of how many men she cheats with, there is something pretty funny about two friends who have been done wrong by their men and are now taking back their power southern style. Roger Bean, is the writer and director of Coyote Stageworks current production, “Honkytonk Laundry,” on stage at the Annenberg Theatre in Palm Springs. Bean, also the author of the hit show, “The Marvelous Wonderettes,” is very talented at weaving hit songs into his books. His current rendering of a boot scootin’ musical, while not a serious or thought provoking show, is filled with enough hit country songs to fill your night with lots of laughs and down home fun.

“DEAR ANITA BRYANT,”

BREAKING THE4TH WALL BY DEE JAE COX

Lana Mae Hopkins, (Bets Malone,) owns the ‘Wishy Washy Washateria,’ a retro fluff and fold laundry that was originally founded by her grandmother and not much has been updated since. Just as she’s bemoaning her lot and longing for a vacation from her life, in walks Katie Lane Murphy, (Misty Cotton,) who is in the midst of her own life crisis with a cheatin’ boyfriend. Lana Mae hires Katie Lane, for some desperately needed assistance and along the way the two become good friends. They decide to fulfill Lana Mae’s dream of being a country singer

Photos By David A. Lee

ccording to Wikipedia, the abbreviated encyclopedia that has become a contemporary go-to guide, Homophobia encompasses a range of negative attitudes and feelings toward homosexuality or people who are identified or perceived as being lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender. It has been defined as contempt, prejudice, aversion, hatred or antipathy, may be based on irrational fear, and is often related to religious beliefs. Homophobia is observable in critical and hostile behavior such as discrimination and violence on the basis of sexual orientations that are non-heterosexual. And unfortunately homophobia, bigotry and intolerance has become synonymous with right wing conservatism. A movement that is as intolerant today, as they were forty years ago. Anita Bryant, a former Miss Oklahoma and American singer who reached her peak in the 1960’s, moved into political activism in the 1970’s. She capitalized on the ignorance of the time and publically campaigned against the rights of lesbians and gays to adopt or even maintain custody of their own children. Her campaign, titled “Save our Children,” resulted in activating an avalanche of opposition from the LGBT community

February 7 to February 13, 2019

A PLAY READING BY RONNI SANLO THAT CAPTURES AN HISTORICAL MOMENT IN LGBTQ HISTORY.

and brought the fight for equal rights to the national stage. Bryant soon lost public support, including a nationwide boycott of Florida Orange Juice, a product that she was the known spokesperson for. Her name became and has been forever synonymous with the bigotry and the hateful activism that she cultivated. In the wake of her Christian rightwing attack,

and turn the Wishy Washy into a Hony Tonk Laundromat and stage show. Malone and Cotton are very talented performers and belt out familiar songs with such force that you could almost imagine yourself at a real live concert of country greats such as Reba McEntire, Carrie Underwood, Dixie Chicks, Dolly Parton, and many others,. These two share wonderful stage chemistry, perfect comedic timing and have professional voices that could rival many of the singers they are emulating. I will admit that I enjoyed the second act more than the first when Lana Mae and Katie Lane let loose in grand ole opry style. Honky Tonk Laundry, is a fun and entertaining night out. Good music and good laughs are always a great combination. The production values are definitely worth noting. Tom Buderwitz’s set design was creative and set the tone for this night of laughs. Renetta Lloyd’s costumes were perfect and pretty as a picture and Moira Wilkie’s lighting design created the ideal mood for this down home Laundromat turned honky tonk. Honky Tonk Laundry can be seen through Feb. 10, 2018 at The Annenberg Theatre, located at 101 Museum Dr, Palm Springs. For ticket info: coyotestageworks.org psmuseum.org/annenberg-theater Dee Jae Cox is a playwright, director and producer. She is the Cofounder and Artistic Director of The Los Angeles Women’s Theatre Project. losangeleswomenstheatreproject.org palmspringstheatre.com

BY DEE JAE COX

many fell victim to the onslaught of bigotry perpetrated against gay and lesbian parents. Dr. Ronni Sanlo, was a recently divorced mother at the time and just coming out during Bryant’s hate-filled campaign. Her fight for her children became real and very personal. Sanlo’s story reveals the deep and painful struggle of a woman whose children were lost in the fight between a mother’s love and an activists’ crusade. The “Dear Anita Bryant” play reading will be presented on February 15, 2019 at 7:00pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. This show is a benefit for the Palm Springs

LGBTQ

Cultural Center and the L-Fund. The play features performers, Michele Weiss, Lin Phillippi, Kerrie Terry, Mei Ling Tom, David Brooks and Tom Kuhn.

February 7 to February 13, 2019

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

BY HEIDI SIMMONS INTERVIEW WITH A SURVIVOR: JENNIFER ASBENSON IN HER TREE HOUSE

“ t wasn’t just in his black eyes, it was his whole energy,” said Jenifer Asbenson about the evil she experienced at the hands of her attacker. “It was so scary. I knew he was going to kill me.” Serial killer Andrew Urdiales raped and murdered eight women before being apprehended. Asbenson was the fifth victim. She was 19 years old and the only woman to escape his deadly grasp. “During the attack I stopped pleading for my life,” said Asbenson. “He was toying with me. Having hope that he would let me go felt like torture. Usually it’s good to have hope, but not in this case. It was the worst. With hope, I could feel everything he was doing to me. My life was in his hands and there was nothing to negotiate. It was pure evil -- how evil is disguised on this planet. I wanted it to end. So I told him to just go ahead -- shoot me.” In her new book, The Girl in the Treehouse, Asbenson recounts her life growing up in and around the Coachella Valley with a dysfunctional family and the challenges that shaped her and gave her the strength to survive such intense trauma. SACRED SPACE Asbenson shared her story from the safety of her cozy, eclectic, split-level tree house – the inspiration for the book’s title. “It’s like a womb,” Asbenson said about her beloved tree house and creative space. She birthed her book from the secure backyard location over two years -- an extension cord, an umbilical, provides her sanctuary with power. Converted from a boys’ fort, Asbenson meticulously curated the tree house interior. “If you are afraid of the story you are about to tell, you keep finding projects to do,” said Asbenson. “I moved in here because I didn’t want any distractions. I knew the depth of what I was going into with every chapter. It could be a good ride or bad. I had to get the space right until there was nothing more to do but write.”

The tree house has a “bedroom” and a living space with a chair, daybed and coffee table. Fabric mandalas are draped over the ceiling and walls, Persian rugs cover the floors, soft lights illuminate the comfortable space; candles, incense and mellow music infuse a relaxed and easy atmosphere. She has red wine, water and snacks on a tray. Asbenson’s tree house is not a child’s hideout any longer, but an adult’s peaceful refuge. READY TO WRITE Part of Asbenson’s routine before writing was to drink some wine and smoke some cannabis - a sativa - to relax and focus. “I could write with total honesty, without any embarrassment and just be human,” said Asbenson. “I knew that if I am completely real, I’m going to be able to connect with somebody and help people.” Asbenson sat in an under-sized floral armchair leaning in, now and again, using her hands to emphasize the trauma – revisiting the lessons she has learned about herself through the writing process. “During the attack, I went into shock and it protected me from feeling anything,” said Asbenson. “Hope hurt. I went from the highest extreme to the lowest low. Believing he might set me free was not going to change his mind. I knew I wasn’t going to live. When I said ‘kill me,’ that surprised him and the situation changed. Once the evil was no longer right in my face, I got a chance to calm my mind.” Asbenson talks about the abduction, confrontation and escape, with candor in The Girl in the Treehouse. (See CVW Book Review) DEVINE INTERVENTION The harrowing account includes what Asbenson believes was divine intervention. Locked in the dark trunk of her abductor’s car, Asbenson prayed and light temporarily illuminated a small section where she managed to find the release latch and get out. Her abductor pursued her as she ran barefoot, injured and half naked

PERSONAL PROFILE

through the desert. “I am a spiritual person and believe in God,” said Asbenson. “To me, a prayer is a form of meditation; a way to calm yourself and think. I see a spiritual connection because I choose to. There’s so much we can’t answer. Did a hand turn the lock? Was it my imagination? Somehow, I knew exactly what to do. We try to think what makes sense to us. But, he put me in the trunk and that gave me an opportunity. The other women didn’t get that chance.” When Asbenson was rescued and first responders came to help, her mother doubted her daughter’s story. Asbenson expected people would show her love, compassion, and provide her with help. It didn’t come. Her mother quipped, “It’s what you get for hitch-hiking.” The blame and betrayal further traumatized Asbenson. For years after the abduction, Asbenson feared her attacker would come after her again. He had her driver’s license and purse she left in his car. Some people disbelieved Asbenson’s story while others referred to her as “the kidnapped girl.” She was in and out of mental health facilities suffering from PTSD and other psychiatric challenges stemming from the attack. There was no professional therapeutic help provided to her for the horrific trauma. While confined and given a litany of medications, she questioned her own truth. THE GIRL Asbenson is tall, lean and very pretty. She exudes sweetness, sincerity and a childlike innocence that is beautiful. She giggles with ease. She’s thoughtful before answering questions. She’s happy. Although she appears fragile and vulnerable, there is strength, wisdom and conviction that radiates under the surface. “I don’t think I would have been kidnapped, or survived if it wasn’t for my childhood,” said Asbenson. “Because of the way I was treated at home, I’d take risks

and trust people. I had no self-esteem, selfrespect or self-love. I was naïve.” As a kid, Asbenson’s father built a geodesic dome on a remote parcel of desert land. She had a disabled little brother and her family struggled financially. They had no running water or electricity. She often went without food, shoes and new clothing. Her mother mentally and physically abused her. “I didn’t write this book as someone who got away from a serial killer. If I wrote just about that, the story wouldn’t make sense. It’s about my life, which is all part of the complete picture.” IDENTIFIED When her attacker was caught in the Midwest, Asbenson was shown photos by the local Sheriff. She immediately identified Urdiales. She asked to talk with the other victims, but law enforcement revealed that the others were all deceased. She was the only one to survive. “I was hoping to bond with the other women,” said Asbenson. Asbenson has bonded with the other victims. She dedicated her book to them. When Urdiales confessed, he named all his victims and told the police about a girl in California named Jennifer who escaped. Asbenson does not know why he chose to confess. “He was caught with a gun that he used to kill a girl,” said Asbenson. “He could have denied it was his. But he didn’t.” Urdiales was arrested in 1997. Asbenson testified against her attacker in three different trials. The California trial was in 2018. TESTIMONY “I didn’t want him there during my testimony, but it’s his right to be present,” said Asbenson. “At first, I wanted to be a warrior and inspirational when I took the stand. Show him how strong I was. He didn’t kill me. I survived. But, when I looked at the Jury, I realized they needed to hear exactly what happened that day – back then - from the person I was, not who I am now. They had to hear how terrifying it was and what he did to me. It was daunting being in front of him.” The attack was on September 28, 1992. Asbenson says it with unhesitating confidence the date permanently seared into her soul. Asbenson suffered terrible PTSD nightmares and sleep paralysis. She read everything she could about letting go of resentment, bitterness and anger. All the advice recommended forgiveness, something Asbenson could not bring herself to do. FORGIVENESS “The families of the other victims and I spoke at the sentencing,” said Asbenson. “Up to that time, I had not forgiven him. But, in the moment, I did, and it was a relief. I was made of concrete and then I became light as a bird.” Asbenson’s PTSD nightmares stopped. “Forgiving someone isn’t about saying

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

‘What you did was okay,’” said Asbenson. “It’s about putting it behind you and saying ‘it’s not on me. It’s on you.’” Asbenson went as far as to thank her attacker for letting her breathe. (He strangled her until she blacked out.) She went down a list of the things she was grateful for. According to Asbenson, none of the families were hostile toward the killer, but only spoke about the beauty and goodness of those they lost. Urdiales was convicted and sentenced to death. He was transferred to San Quentin where he hanged himself a week later. Asbenson believes the evil inside his whole body turned on him. “He couldn’t feed off our anger anymore,” Asbenson said. Many family members of Urdiales’ victims have embraced Asbenson; one father feeling the spirit of his daughter living on in Asbenson. For her, “survivor’s guilt” has shaped itself into helping others. WORTHY “I wasn’t doing my best, I was selfdestructive and using drugs,” said Asbenson. “Why am I here if I’m going to feel guilt about being alive. It’s a different kind of survival. I needed to feel worthy.” Regarding the recent case of Jayme Closs who managed to escape her abductor Asbenson said, “She is going to need a lot of help. I hope she gets it.”

Other survivors have reached out to Asbenson. “I listen. I won’t give them advice. I only tell them the things that I’ve done. Or share what helped me,” said Asbenson. Asbenson has been exchanging texts with a 14-year-old girl who escaped from an abductor. The police are actively searching for the man and believe he has killed others. The girl thinks she sees her abductor everywhere. Asbenson understands because that happened to her as well. Asbenson texted: “It’s the PTSD. Do you have a therapist?” “I asked her if she felt safe. I encouraged her to love and not blame herself. I recommended that she get a service dog. A dog is not only comforting, it barks and can let you know if there’s someone out there.” Asbenson has two dogs. THE STORY At eight years old, Asbenson knew she had a story to tell and that some day it would be a movie or a book. With a vivid imagination, she could see the moments of her life like scenes on a screen. “I could see myself belittled and abuse. A poor young girl chasing after her disabled brother was horrible, but in my mind it was going to be beautiful and meaningful one day,” said Asbenson. “People need to know the circumstances of how I grew up and how it enabled my kidnapping.” Asbenson admits to being shy and that she has trust issues. She is careful whom she lets into her life. WARRIORS & ROCK STARS On the inside of Asbenson’s forearm where there are scars from self-inflicted wounds, she has tattooed “Warrior.” “At the end of writing my story, I fell in love with myself. I realized the mental illnesses I have are okay. PTSD is expected,” said Asbenson. “People started to call me a warrior and that made me feel proud. I believe that everybody who has gotten through something difficult is a survivor. If you fight to better yourself and share your story to help others, you earn a new badge - you are a warrior.”

Asbenson plans to tattoo “Rock Star” on the inside of her other arm, which is another moniker people have bestowed on her. “I like it, because when a warrior flips all the ugliness into something really amazing, then you become a rock star!” said Asbenson. Asbenson was waiting for someone else to tell her story and realized she had to do it herself. SKILLSET “No one can tell my story the way I can,” Asbenson said. “It was really, really hard and I had to relive and feel it all over again. I would get revelations and see how the pieces fit together. I didn’t know my entire story until I finished writing it.” With the book’s release, Asbenson is excited. “I’m overwhelmed, but that’s a good thing,” said Asbenson. “Being underwhelmed is boring.” Without a doubt, Asbenson has been changed by the events in her life. Her difficult childhood made her susceptible to being victimized, while her young life also provided her the practical skillset to survive. “If this didn’t happen, I’m not sure the kind of person I would have become,” Asbenson said. “I turned it around and made it into something that I can be proud of. I learned to love myself. I’m okay with what happened and I forgive everyone. And that sets me free. I want to be myself and

February 7 to February 13, 2019

live fully.” Asbenson has made her message about personal empowerment. SOUL SURVIVOR “If you’re looking for someone else to fill your soul, it’s not going to happen,” said Asbenson. “It has to start with you. You have to do what makes you happy and gives you joy. You have to decide who you want to be, who you’re going to become. If you’re true to yourself, really love yourself, it will show.” Asbenson is motivated by those reading her story. “I’m inspired,” said Asbenson. “That’s what’s real for me. I’m proud of what I’ve become and I love myself. It was here, in my tree house, that I told my story and reclaimed my life.” Jennifer Asbenson’s identity is no longer just the girl who escaped a serial killer, but the girl in the tree house. Jennifer Asbenson will be signing copies of her book The Girl in the Treehouse at Big Rock Pub in Indio, Thursday, February 7, 4:00- 7:00pm

February 7 to February 13, 2019

PUBLIC PERSONALITY

hether it’s clear blue skies or thundering rainstorms, Haley Clawson is always there to deliver her seven-day forecast to get you ready for the week ahead. Working as the Chief Meteorologist for KESQ News Channel 3, Clawson has become more than just a familiar face on the television screen, but also a reliable source for weather updates and news to many Coachella Valley residents. Before making herself at home as part of the KESQ news team, Clawson nurtured a love for science away from the desert. She was born in Biloxi, Mississippi, and grew up in the town of Davie, Florida. Clawson later attended Mississippi State University [MSU], following in the steps of her relatives. “My sister and brother-in-law strongly influenced me to consider their alma mater [MSU]. After touring the campus I knew that was the school for me,” said Clawson. “My sister has always been a big role model in my life. We’re 18 years apart so she has the insight into what I am going through at various life stages.” As a university student, her course work consisted of science, math and communication. She later graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Geoscience with a concentration in Broadcast Meteorology. Clawson cites growing up in the hurricaneprone environment of southern Florida as greatly influencing the direction of her career path. “My original plan was to join the United States Air Force after college to fly with the Hurricane Hunters. During my college years, I discovered the conversational education to the public was something I enjoyed,” she explained. The budding meteorologist got her first

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

METEOROLOGIST FOR HALEY CLAWSON CHIEF KESQ NEWS CHANNEL 3

experience in the field while interning at Florida stations like WFOR in Miami, and WFTX in Ft. Myers. She eventually relocated to Abilene, Texas, where she landed her fist position as a weekend meteorologist and multimedia journalist. An important phone call is what made Clawson decide to make the Coachella Valley her new residence, with the promise of exploring a whole new environment that she knew nothing about. “Bob Smith, the former News Director of KESQ, initiated the conversation in my transition from West Central Texas to Southern California. The opportunity to live and forecast for a location I had never been to, or heard of, was very appealing to me,” said Clawson. Accepting the new position, she moved to the Coachella Valley in December of 2015, and it has quickly become one of her favorite places. “Travel is a huge part of my life and this location offers a lot of chances for adventure. The proximity to the border, the beach, the mountains and anything you can think of just

can‘t be beat!” exclaimed Clawson about her desert home, which she shares with her rescue pitbull mix, Tex. Becoming the Chief Meteorologist at KESQ has been a thrill for Clawson, as she describes the best part of her job as being able to talk about science everyday—enabling her to share her passion and knowledge with her audience. During the last few years, she has witnessed firsthand how the nature of her profession affects the community, becoming the highlight of her career so far. “A moment that continues to stick with me is covering the Blue Cut Fire in August 2016. I was reporting from the fire lines on the current conditions and how the weather would influence the flames. Seeing the team effort of ground and air crews to battle the flames and protect the community was inspiring,” said Clawson. It is those kinds of experiences and stories that have reaffirmed Clawson’s belief that she is in the right place in her career, as the Coachella Valley has provided her with more opportunities than she had anticipated.

MIZELL SENIOR CENTER’S ‘STARS AMONG US GALA’ TO FEATURE “I WILL ALWAYS LOVE YOU” CELEBRATING THE MUSIC OF WHITNEY HOUSTON

nnual Fundraiser for Meals On Wheels program to showcase Broadway and Grammy®-nominated recording star, Deborah Cox, as the organization honors retiring Executive Director, Ginny Foat, and community partner, the Desert Healthcare District The Mizell Senior Center invites you to experience the style and elegance of the famed Fontainebleau Hotel in Miami Beach at the 14th annual Stars Among Us Gala on Friday, February 22, 2019 beginning at 5:30 p.m. Presented by Eisenhower Health and Patti and

Jack Grundhofer, the powerful voice of Deborah Cox, star of the hit musical adaptation of “The Bodyguard,” will soar throughout the Palm Springs Air Museum in “I Will Always Love You,” Celebrating the Music of Whitney Houston. All proceeds from the Gala benefit Mizell’s Valleywide Meal On Wheels program. Co-chaired by Geoff Kors and James Williamson, Cyma and Leo Cohen, Carol and Dr. Ronald Fragen and Dennis Flaig and Clinton Moore, the Stars Among Us Gala will honor the Desert Healthcare District with its Shining Star Award and will present the Galaxy Award to Ginny Foat, upon the announcement of her retirement. Honorees: The Desert Healthcare District will be presented with the Shining Star Award in recognition of its dedication to the Mizell Senior Center as a steadfast partner of over 20 years. The District’s mission of achieving optimal health at all stages of life is reflected in the robust programs and innovative services it has funded at Mizell. Accepting the award will be Desert Healthcare District Board Member, Les Zendle, MD. Longtime Executive Director, Ginny Foat, who is retiring in March, will receive the Galaxy Award in honor of her extraordinary

leadership and lasting contributions. Ginny’s vision, expertise and drive reshaped Mizell’s future, reinvigorated the organization and are responsible for the launch of the groundbreaking Falls Prevention program and the Valley-wide Meals On Wheels program. Entertainment: Attendees of the Stars Among Us Gala will be transported to the larger-than-life glitz and glamour of Miami and the famed Fontainebleau Hotel. Deborah Cox, making her first appearance in the desert, will be performing in a show created especially for this evening, “I Will Always Love You,” Celebrating the Music of Whitney Houston. The Grammy®-nominated, multi-platinum R&B/ Pop recording artist and actress received rave reviews in London’s West End and throughout the U.S. starring in the role of Rachel Maron – originally played by Whitney Houston – in the new musical, “The Bodyguard.” About Mizell Senior Center and Meals On Wheels: Mizell Senior Center has been serving the greater Palm Springs area for over 40 years, and is an acknowledged leader in active aging. Mizell’s welcoming space and multifaceted network of programs and services offer community and kinship for seniors from diverse backgrounds and life experiences. From daily

BY CRYSTAL HARRELL

“I have come to learn that market size does not matter to me anymore. I am far more concerned about location and quality of living… My goal would be to continue doing what I love and to not settle for anything less,” she stated. When she’s not explaining graphics on a green screen or receiving phone calls asking if she’s related to fellow KESQ News Anchor Karen Devine, Clawson enjoys anything that takes place outdoors. “Growing up on the water, I fell in love with fishing and scuba diving. Hiking and rock climbing have taken over since moving to California. I‘m also a member of a local triathlon group, Salton Sea Triathlon Club, and am currently training for a full Ironman,” she shared. Clawson continues to foster her passion for science and community outreach, even founding the nonprofit organization, STEMing Careers, in 2017 with other local women to support Coachella Valley girls pursuing an education in science, technology, engineering, or math. Their first fundraiser, a 5K walk/run, was a success and scholarships will be available later this year. Even as she continues to successfully make a name for herself as part of The Desert’s News & Weather Leader, Clawson only hopes to remain happy in her position and proud of her accomplishments. She has learned to not worry about the “what-ifs” in life, and to focus on the present. “It will all work out. It‘s still something I have to reaffirm to myself when something doesn‘t happen the way I would want or expect but... it will all work out, it always does,” Clawson said. “I’m really excited to continue exploring this beautiful state. Many adventures are in the works.”

EVENTS

lunch service in the Center’s dining room to the computer lab, fitness programs, multiple classes in the creative arts, weekly jam sessions and its pioneering Falls Prevention programs, Mizell’s on-site activities are a vital resource for actively aging seniors. The Stars Among Us Gala raises muchneeded funds to continue Mizell’s efforts to feed homebound seniors in the desert – a program well-known as Meals On Wheels. Mizell operates the largest Meals On Wheels program in the Coachella Valley. This past year, Mizell’s dedicated staff prepared and delivered 182,971 hot, nutritious meals to homebound seniors and nine congregate meal sites over a vast west-to-east service area from Whitewater to the Salton Sea. The event begins at 5:30 p.m. at the Palm Springs Air Museum, located at 745 N. Gene Autry Trail in Palm Springs. Gala seats are $350 and can be purchased online at mizell.org or by calling 760-323-5689, x108.

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

FEBRUARY IS BLACK HISTORY MONTH IN PALM SPRINGS

ebruary is Black History Month in the City of Palm Springs and the entire community is invited to participate in a host of fun and educational events planned by the City’s Black History Month Committee. This year’s theme is “Black Migrations and Urban Realities.” Black History Month Awards Gala, took place last Saturday, Feb. 2, at the Palm Springs Air Museum. Honorees were Father Andrew Green, pastor at St. Paul Church of the Desert, local Coachella Valley artist Bernard Hoyes, local volunteers John Caranci and Keith Howard, Riverside County sheriff’s deputy Tim White, Anne Kalisek, administrator from Palm Springs Unified School District, Desert Highland resident Dieter Crawford, Jeff Grubbe, Chairman of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, along with local Tuskegee Airman Bob J. Friend, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award. The Gala also featured a tribute to the Tuskegee Airmen and the popular World War II P-51 Mustang airplane known as “Red Tail.”

EVENTS

ART BY TODD GRAY

LOCAL MUSICIAN PROFILE

osh Ballard is best known for being the drummer in the bands Hollace, Burning Bettie and his first band, Wasted Sobriety. He started playing music when he was 15, first the drums and then guitar, bass and keyboards. Since the passing of Hollace frontman, Alex Antonio Perez, a year ago, the band went their separate ways and Ballard is doing solo projects. He says it’s still too hard to talk about Alex as they weren’t only band mates, but Ballard actually married Alex and his wife Jennifer a few months before he died. Ballard also lost his Dad and Alex within a few months of each other and was going through a stressful living situation. “I miss them both! But, I’m surrounded by good people and have a great vision for the future. Fuck Cancer!!!” said Ballard. With Ballard’s new attitude and lease on life, he lost 80 pounds and has a new girlfriend,

PURPLE REIGN: THE PRINCE TRIBUTE SHOW BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND AT AGUA CALIENTE TICKETS ON SALE THIS SATURDAY, ON MARCH 23, 2019 FEBRUARY 9, AT 10 A.M.

Here is a list of events coming up: Sip & Paint Night, 4 p.m. Feb. 9. Antigua Kitchen & Bar, 105 S. Palm Canyon Drive. Black History Month Art Exhibit & Reception, 2 p.m. Feb. 10, Palm Springs Art Museum, 101 Museum Drive, featuring the work of African American artist Todd Gray. Adult Basketball Tournament, 10 a.m. Feb. 16, Desert Highland Unity Center, 480 Tramview Road. 32nd Annual Black History Parade and Town Fair. Parade is Saturday, Feb. 23 at 11 a.m. along Palm Canyon Drive. Town Fair runs noon to 6 p.m. in Frances Stevens Park on the corner of Palm Canyon Drive and Alejo Road. For more info about events, visit www. PalmSpringsBlackHistory.org

February 7 to February 13, 2019

he enormously popular Prince tribute act, Purple Reign, returns for its second appearance at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa on Saturday, March 23, 2019, at 8 p.m. This award-winning tribute show, considered among the best of its kind in the world, makes its return to Rancho Mirage following its September 2018 performance at The Show. Purple Reign captures the imagination and seamlessly recreates the blistering performances and raw energy of Prince in his prime and returns audiences to the era that made “The Artist” an international superstar. Featuring a tribute Morris Day and The Time, this show is a must-see for Purple Rain movie fans and live music fans alike. From humble beginnings in small college clubs at the University of Las Vegas to being the first-ever tribute/impersonator act to appear as the musical guest on The Late Show with David Letterman – New Year’s Eve 2009, no less – Purple Reign has also been crowned “Best Tribute Act” by the 28th annual Las Vegas Review Journal poll, winning two awards from both the staff and its readers, and going on to win “Best Impersonator” in the Las Vegas Review Journal’s 2014 poll. Purple Reign was

chosen as the season three opener for AXS TV’s The World’s Greatest Tribute Bands. Audiences will once again be mesmerized by the magnificent, soulful music majesty of one of pop music’s greatest showmen in Purple Reign: The Prince Tribute Show. Saturday, March 23, 2019, at 8 p.m. The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa, 32-250 Bob Hope Dr in Rancho Mirage. Prices: $25-$35, based on seat location. HotWaterCasino.com; (800)514-3849

JOSH BALLARD: THE NEXT CHAPTER

it’s apparent that he is determined to have a bright future. Not only does he write his own songs, he also records, mixes and masters them himself at his home studio, which also serves as a practice/rehearsal space. “I write with my piano or guitar, find the progression, verse, chorus, etc. and then write the words. Once it’s all done I record every track myself one by one; guitar, bass, keys and drums,” said Ballard. He’s currently working on a new music project. “I’m doing a project in tribute to another friend of mine Paul Borne. He passed away a few years back and I remember 35 of his songs. I’m almost half way through recording them all. I am working on recording my own songs as well,” shared Ballard. This project is a little different from playing in his previous bands. “Russel the Bear Band is all Paul Borne’s

songs,” said Ballard. “They are a mix of Surf/ punk and classic rock and a few slow ones. It’s his lyrics that really stick out though!” With so many ups and downs recently I asked him what has been the most exciting point of his musical career so far. “I’d say it’s a collective of all the amazing bands I’ve been in! I’ve had some great talented players in my life and they all have taught me something along the way!” Ballard has also worked closely with 2018 CV Music Award winners for Best New Band, Mega Sun. “I saw Mega Sun last year at a CV weekly event and was blown away. Tyler (Ontiveros) and I were in other bands and played shows together in the past. I asked him if they wanted

BY TRACY DIETLIN

to come over to my studio and record and jam and they pretty much fell in love with me!” Ballard shared laughing. “Now I can’t get them to leave me alone! They are really good dudes and great musicians! Except for Jeremy Parsons. I’ve heard better,” Ballard shared with a wink and an inside joke a brewing. The love and comradery between the Mega Sun band members and Ballard is obvious. Ballard says his main influence is, “Queen, hands down!” His favorite drummer is Todd Sucherman, the current drummer for Styx, who he says is a beast. In the music business he most respects Dave Grohl. “Just ask yourself, ‘What would Dave Grohl do?’” Ballard said smiling. He would most like to open for Tenacious D and he’s currently listening to Here Come the Mummies, Queen, Sound Garden, Styx, Tenacious D, and too many others to name. He would most like to see Led Zeppelin as a headliner for this year’s Desert Trip. His Musical goals for 2019 are: “I want to release a Russell the Bear Band album! Possibly get a band together to do some live shows! I’ll be playing at Plan B this Thursday with Mega Sun and Captain Ghost! Its going to be a good night with great bands! Come on out! Thank you so much to CV weekly too! You and Phil do so much for this little music community of ours and WE ALL can’t thank you enough!!!!” Josh Ballard with Mega Sun and Captain Ghost - Thursday, February 7 at Plan B Live Entertainment & Cocktails. Starts at 9:00pm. FREE show.

February 7 to February 13, 2019

LOCAL MUSIC

he Sieve & The Saddle’s first album and self-titled LP will be released on Tuesday, February 12th, 2019 in digital stores worldwide. Comprised of Morgan Alise James (vocals) and Johnny Carmona (guitar), The Sieve & The Saddle contributes a haunting sound that lyrically discerns the good from bad. James and Carmona are in full command as they rule through their passion and demonstrate the power of expression and denial on this album. Coachella Valley Weekly linked up with James to discuss the new album. CVW: Overall, how are you feeling about the upcoming release of your new album? James: “Johnny and I are thrilled to finally be releasing this album. We have been working on it for a year and a half so it feels good to have it complete. We really feel that this album has so much depth, and for me, the lyrics are deeply personal.” CVW: The music is described as BluesCountry-Folk-Rock. Can you further describe your sound? James: “The album really spans a plethora of genres. It has been described as Southern Rock, Blues Rock, Indie Rock, Americana, and Fringe Country. Our songs would fit on any Alt Rock station, Adult Contemporary and a few songs could work for Country. Our publicist says that the album has that familiar classic ‘Laurel Canyon’ feel of the 60’s, but with the heavy, rocked out production of today. We haven’t been able to find a band with a sound like ours so I guess fans will have to just listen and see what they think.” CVW: What is it like having your significant other as your bandmate? What unique challenges have you both experienced? James: “It’s great! Johnny and I have been playing cover music together for five and a half years so we are very familiar with how each other works. When we began dating and decided to write the album and re-brand as The Sieve & The Saddle, we were able to knock out several songs within just a few months and really find our unique sound. We were best friends before we started dating so we have been able to say, ‘Hey I don’t really like that note, or melody, or vibe.’” CVW: How much of your identity as an artist is connected to being a Coachella Valley resident? James: “Well Johnny grew up in the Coachella Valley and played in high school bands at many of the local venues. The Coachella Valley has had a huge impact on me as a person and as an artist. I grew up in Orange County and moved to a few different states before the Coachella Valley and it seemed I could never quite find my place in the world. It wasn’t until I settled into the Coachella Valley 9 years ago that I found myself feeling like I was home. This is definitely home. I am so grateful to have launched my music career here and found the open arms of the music community. We are all so supportive of one another, putting on shows and playing alongside each other.” CVW: You received a ‘Best Duo’ nomination at last year’s CV Music Awards (CVMA). What was that like for you?

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

THE SIEVE & THE SADDLE - HERE IS GONE TO STAY BY NOE GUTIERREZ

James: “You know that was such a BIG deal for us. We had just announced our re-brand as The Sieve & The Saddle and really just played a few shows as such. We have put together so many events for the music community over the years like the CV Open Mic Competition, Intimate Acoustics, The Jam Sessions, and I hosted a radio show and brought in local musicians every week to play live. I LOVE helping people. I love seeing other people succeed so it always felt good to do those events. The thing was, some people didn’t realize that I was a musician myself! So getting the nomination last year really brought that to light and we were so grateful. I have had the fortune of hosting the CV Music Awards for the last two years and it is such a special event for the community. It makes such an impact for us as artists to be recognized by our peers in that way.” CVW: You identify The Winery Dogs (one of my favorite bands) and other artists as influential. What Coachella Valley/High Desert artists have made an impact on you? James: “There are so many Coachella Valley artists that we love. SO MANY. Derek Jordan Gregg inspires me to write deeply and more poetic and inspires Johnny to keep up on his guitar skills. The Hive Minds will always have a special place in my heart. We have also always loved the music of Caxton. They are like rock stars to us. Courtney Chambers, Giselle Woo, and Symara Stone are such incredible inspirations for me vocally and these girls rock not only as musicians, but they are each just absolutely beautiful people and remind me to appreciate every single day. Right now, I am a huge fan of Right On! Right On! and could listen to those guys jam out all day. Oh and yesterday, I discovered that Rick Shelley and Michael Keeth follow me on Instagram and I about died. Wow! I can’t believe that those guys aren’t out touring the world. Hearing all of these local CV artists keeps us pushing for a better sound, deeper lyrics, better production, and lots more practice!” CVW: CVMA ‘Best Producer’ (2018) Will Sturgeon worked on the album, how did you come to choose to record at ‘The Sturdio’? What was his influence on the recording?

James: “I was listening to Jimi Fitz on CV 104.3 and he played Little Mexico by The Flusters one morning and mentioned it was produced by Will Sturgeon. It is such a great song and I was impressed by the production. This was just as Johnny and I were wrapping up writing most of our album so what an incredibly lucky occurrence for us that we knew Will and asked to speak with him about producing our album. It was really a match made in heaven because Will has the talent to understand exactly the vibe we were trying to achieve and offer insight on additional instrumentation to really get an incredible, professional sound. We were absolutely blessed to work with him.” CVW: The album artwork features what appears to be a raven and was developed by Wesley Gainey of ‘8 Bit Imaginations’. What does the imagery represent? James: “Although our album is self-titled, we have a song named Raven. In ancient cultures ravens were visionaries and secret keepers whispering focus to holy men and fortunes to kings. They also symbolize transformation. A lot of my lyrics are about the struggle of the concept of good and evil and religion in general as it relates to the decisions we as humans face every day. I felt the raven would be a nice clean, yet haunting image for our album. Wes Gainey took my concept and brought it to life in his art for our album and we love it!” CVW: You are involved in many aspects of the local music scene. What regular events are you currently involved in? James: “Right now we are in our 4th year of Intimate Acoustics which is a monthly acoustic music showcase at Plan B Live Entertainment & Cocktails in Thousand Palms every 2nd Thursday. I also produce music videos for local artists like Desert Pirates.” We asked James to give us some background of each track on the album: Midnight Hung the Moon (featuring Eric Frankson on violin) “A moody bluesy heavy rock song about moving on. When you get to a point in life where you know it’s time to move on, but it’s scary not knowing what lies ahead.” Big Bold Lie - “A soulful, hand clapping, full of guitars type of sound with some pretty interesting lyrics. It’s about the choices we make in life that may go against the status quo. It has classic blues themes of selling your soul and finding out who you truly are.”

Here Is Gone - “Here Is Gone has sweet beautiful undertones in the verses, but dark heavy guitar choruses. The lyrics touch sin, temptation, freedom, enslavement, death and the afterlife. You can’t go back once your veil has lifted.” Raven - “Full of energy and twangy, sounds. It’s very rock, very country, a lot of soul. It’s really lusty. It’s about the beginnings of a relationship when things are such a rush and you want to scream from the mountain tops how amazing you feel- and ok to admit it.” Long Way Down - “More like classic rock, 90s rock feel. It has some great musical elements and the lyrics are about remembering the highlights of a beautiful relationship that has fallen apart, having gratitude and then moving forward.” Royal Affair - “Royal Affair is a party song! Heavy rocking guitars! This song is all about dancing, drinking, and partying the night away. Shaking the dust off of an old club and rocking the night away.” Wear It Twice - “Wear It Twice is definitely country. We started out playing in a country band so this is our homage to that I think. It’s acoustic-ish. Like playing a fun song in a bar with everyone singing along. Sometimes you gotta Wear it Twice, Sometimes you oughtta roll the dice! Make the best with what you’ve got and enjoy life type of song.” Will Sturgeon on working with The Sieve & The Saddle: “We’ve been working together in The Sturdio for about a year and a half on these songs, stealing time after work and on weekends to have short sessions. It was a fun project to work on because they would bring in a song with just acoustic guitar and vocals, and then say ‘we want this to be James-Bondtheme-song vibe’ (a vibe which is definitely not solo acoustic guitar), and we would explore a bunch of different options for arrangement to find something that was unique to their taste. We brought in a special guest violinist, Eric Frankson, to help realize that one specific vision on Midnight Hung the Moon, and had a great time on all of the other songs defining a sound for The Sieve & the Saddle. Some of these tracks are like Muse mixed with Dolly Parton, which I think sums it up! In addition, Morgan and Johnny are just the nicest people in the desert so it was fun to hang. I wanted to help them make a first record that they can be proud of, and I think we did that. It’s a great mix of pop, rock, and twang that The Sturdio is proud to have been a part of.” Upcoming shows: 2/10 – Coachella Valley Brewing Company – Thousand Palms, CA 2/14 – Plan B Entertainment & Cocktails – Thousand Palms, CA Here Is Gone: youtu.be/6oqr8S4uUJU Desert Pirates – It’s a Show (video produced by Morgan James): youtu.be/ ZxbiVAhuRrM thesieveandthesaddle.com

LOCAL MUSIC

phrodisiac Jacket is the ultimate Desert Music salute to The Cult having a list of members that reads like a ‘Delta Force’ of Coachella Valley musicians including; guitarists Marc Gentry (Mighty Jack, The Pedestrians, Groovalopacus), Martin Barrera (5th Town, B Movie Superstars, Roads of Rome, Dolalay), Randy Caserta (The Barflys), drummers Benny Cancino, Jr. (Kelly Derrickson, The Whizards, Invitro, Kyle Turley, Alyce Bowie), Jeff Bowman (Mighty Jack, Mondo Generator, Waxy, Faults of Andreas, The Agents, Unsound), Dominic Jimenez (The Flashback Boyz, Courtney Chambers, Wyte Gye), Mike Cancino (House of Broken Promises, Death In Pretty Wrapping, Unida, Bohemio), Steve Ussery (The Barflys), bassists Rob Martinez (Macho Combo), Mike Jimenez (Wyte Gye), Jerry Bryson (Joe’s Boyz, Black Water) and Dub Wallace (Mozaiq, Blasting Echo, Long Duk Dong) and lone vocalist Noe Gutierrez (Joe’s Boyz, Wyte Gye). The common denominator these all-

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

APHRODISIAC JACKET

stars share is a gratitude and appreciation for the music of Ian Astbury and Billy Duffy. The Cult’s Post-Punk, Gothic, Hard Rock and Heavy Metal brand of music has stood the test of time. Since 1983 they have developed a following of ‘spirit walkers’ that is unmatched in the world of rock. With songs like She Sells Sanctuary, Wildflower, Love Removal Machine and Li’l Devil, The Cult have secured their spot in rock and roll history. Actualized in 2014, Aphrodisiac Jacket first performed at the former Desert Music hub Schmidy’s Tavern in Palm Desert in early 2015. Since then they have played shows with The Iron Maidens, Metalachi, Delta Doom, Mighty Jack, Blasting Echo, Waxy, Long Duk Dong, Whiskey and Knives, The Hellions, Alice Unchained, Mozaiq, 5th Town, Wyte Gye and Grand Scovell at well-known venues like the Date Shed, The Hood and Tack Room Tavern. They were nominated for ‘Best Cover Band’ at the Coachella Valley Music Awards in 2015, 2016 and 2017. I have seen them

PHOTOS BY STEVEN YOUNG PHOTOGRAPHY

February 7 to February 13, 2019

SITTIN’ ON A MOUNTAIN, BY RACHEL MONTOYA LOOKING AT THE SUN perform several times and my girlfriends and I always found ourselves dancing to many of the songs that are surprisingly sexy and got our asses out of our seats. On Saturday, February 23, 2019, Aphrodisiac Jacket will be performing with reinvigorated rockers Empty Seat and full of life punkers FrankEatsTheFloor at The Hood Bar & Pizza for the inception of The Rock Show. Presented by Coachella Valley Weekly and Desert Music, The Rock Show is also a collaborative between Melrose Music Palm Springs, Steven Young Photography, and DC Promotions. Each company has offered a special rate for their services to each artist as a fringe benefit for being participants in The Rock Show. Laine Rinker III of L3 Lighting and Design will provide his above-and-beyond illumination and lighting for the performance. Cost of admission is $5. For this show, the Barrera, Bowman, Bryson, Gentry and Gutierrez line-up will be making their debut. I spoke with these fine gentlemen during one of their rehearsals at Bowman’s music sanctuary at his home in Palm Desert. Montoya: Jerry, you just started playing with these guys right? Bryson: “Yes, my first show at La Quinta Brewing Co. was great! I had a blast! It’s always an amazing thing when you meet the drummer and guitar player for the first time while they’re setting up their gear to play ‘the show’ and nailing all the parts LOL! It was a pleasure and hope there’s more shows in the future.” Montoya: That’s hilarious. So that was the first time you met Benny? Bryson: “Funny quote; the first thing Benny said to me was, “What is that bass, a G&L?” I said yep...he said, ‘You’ll play great!’ LOL.” Montoya: Jerry, what’s your earliest connection to The Cult? Bryson: “I listened to nothing but thrash metal when I was young and used to sneak my sisters Love album when she was gone because I liked it so much. That was the first album I heard by The Cult. Then when I realized it was cool for me to listen to them,

PHOTO COURTESY OF JERRY BRYSON

I bought Electric when it came out and couldn’t wait for Sonic Temple.” Montoya: What about you Jeff, any cool early stories? Bowman: “True story, in 9th grade, my buddy and I were way into The Cult’s Electric album, and we were going to get jobs at Carl’s Jr. at the mall, just long enough to buy a guitar and a drum set so we could start a Cult tribute band. We never did, but 30 years later, here I am! I am so grateful to be a part of it with these fun and talented guys. I have seen several AJ shows and it’s always a great time.” Montoya: Marc, you were the catalyst for all of this. What an amazing list of musicians. Gentry: “It’s still fun to play the music of The Cult, anytime, anywhere with any bros that enjoy their music as well.” Montoya: I know the song Aphrodisiac Jacket is a Cult song from the Electric album but what does it actually mean? Gutierrez: “Salvador Dalí is the surrealist/artist who designed the ‘Aphrodisiac Jacket’. It was a men’s dinner jacket covered in shot glasses filled with liquor. He actually wore it first before he displayed it and asked people to drink from the glasses using straws. If you look at the lyrics of the song they combine everyday things like a lobster and telephone. Much like Dali did with his art. I did my research.” Montoya: Noe, you’ve been the only vocalist thus far. How have you stayed safe? Gutierrez: “Ha ha, yeah, I’m pretty sure I’m not the only one who can sing these songs. I really admire Joe Mora’s (House of Broken Promises) vocal abilities. I know he’s a huge Cult fan too! We actually asked him to sing Bad Fun for the 2/23 show. I would welcome anyone who can do Ian’s vocals justice. I’ve talked with John Garcia about coming up at some point but he’s kinda busy touring the world so…Overall, I’ve had some of the best times singing in this band.” Montoya: You’ve had a couple of guest vocalists in the past right? Gutierrez: “Yes! I’ve had the honor of singing Rain with Courtney Chambers and Fire Woman with Kelly Derrickson, I mean, c’mon! These ladies are icons in my opinion and they aren’t done establishing themselves. I’m singing a song with Red from Empty Seat for The Rock Show as well. It’s going to be a blast to learn from her. She knows her stuff and has mounds of vocal experience.” The rotating list of musicians in this group is pretty amazing. If you have an opportunity to see Aphrodisiac Jacket perform live you should get to the Hood on 2/23. They don’t play often and if you like rock music you can dance to I’ll see you there! hoodbarandpizza.com dcpromotions99.com L3lightingdesign.com melrosemusicstudios.com

February 7 to February 13, 2019

CONSIDER THIS

ooking for a cure for the Winter time blahs? Charlie Faye & The Fayettes have a musical remedy. Their new album, “The Whole Shebang” doesn’t guarantee that it will put a bounce in your step, but to paraphrase a classic Byrds song, you’re gonna feel a whole lot better when they’re done. Charlie Faye wasn’t one of those musical child prodigies; the New York native really began exploring Blues and Bluegrass just as she was finishing up college in (of course), Philadelphia, the City Of Brotherly Love. She learned to play guitar and mandolin, and soon she was making music with artists like Greg Garling and Dan Zanes. Originally influenced by singersongwriters like David Baerwald, Rickie Lee Jones and Lucinda Williams, she began writing her own songs. She relocated to Austin, Texas and thrived in the well-known musical enclave. Her debut, Last Kids In The Bar was released in 2006 and her sophomore album, Wilson Street, popped up three years later. Charlie took a novel approach to making her third record. Rather than head out on tour she would actually go live in a town for a month, acquaint herself with the scene, collaborate with local musicians and write a song. 10 cities elicited 10 songs and the result was her 2011 release, Travels With Charlie. Her next effort, You Were Fine, You Weren’t Even Lonely, touched on her breakup with Austin musician, Will Sexton. Charlie’s sound reflected her love of Blues, Bluegrass and Country, but following her fourth album, she found herself rediscovering early ‘60s music that encompassed the Brill Building, Motown and Girl Groups like the Ronettes, the Shangri-Las Martha Reeves & The Vandellas, the Shirelles and the Supremes. Instead of shoehorning those genres into an acoustic format, she chose to suspend her solo career and form her very own Girl Group. By this time Charlie had relocated to Los Angeles, but she enlisted two wellrespected Austin musicians to make her vision come to fruition, Akina Adderley and Betty Soo. Akina is a Soulful vocalist who fronted her own 10 piece band, Akina Adderley And The Vintage Playboys. She is

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

WHOLE SHEBANG” (BIGGER BETTER MORE RECORDS) CHARLIE FAYE & THE FAYETTES “THE

also descended from Jazz royalty as greatgranddaughter of Nat and great niece of Julien Cannonball Adderley. Her incendiary vocal style has won her acclaim from coast to coast. Betty has created considerable buzz as a Folk-flavored singer-songwriter whose music has been described as equal parts sweet and gritty. When Charlie, Akina and Betty’s vocals intertwined, the results were electric. The trio enlisted producer Dave Way, booking time at his Los Angeles studio, Waystation. A crush of notable musicians, including Eric Holden, Pete Thomas, Dillon O’Brian, Roger Manning, Steve Ellson and Tony Gilkyson pitched in. Their self-titled debut arrived 2016. Fresh, yet familiar, smart and Soulful, the album harkened back to a bygone era without ever feeling kitschy or cloying. It garnered rave reviews and gained them an enthusiastic fan base. Now the ladies have returned with their sophomore effort, The Whole Shebang. Fifty years ago, the Jackson 5 used the alphabet to elucidate the power of love, Charlie and the Fayettes get numerical on the opening cut, cogently entitled “1-2-34.” Tart instrumentation is anchored by a tick-tock rhythm, rippling keys, guitars that echo and sway, plus a smoky harmonica solo. Front and center, the girls lay out the algorithms of attraction; “1-2-3-4, that was all it took, a heartbeat and a look, and I was so gone/Felt my whole world tilting left and right and suddenly a light just came on.” While the arrangements and instrumentation on “I Don’t Need No Baby” and “Baby, We’ll Be Okay” adhere a Spectorian Wall Of Sound style, both employ lyrics that focus on more au courant concerns. The former is a clear homage to the pluperfect Ronettes hit, “Be My Baby.” From the stuttery drum break and cascading handclaps, to the reverb-drenched guitar, shimmery keys and precision harmonies. Naturally, there’s plenty of glockenspiel. But the lyrics flip the script, rather than asking a guy to be her everything, Charlie and the Fayettes shut down unwanted amorous attention with a few deftly turned phrases; “You may find it hard to understand, right now I’m better off without a man/But how could a girl like me not want a guy like youget a clue!” Tethered to a galloping gait, the melody of the latter is accented by swooping strings, Rumble-tastic guitar riffs and whiplash bass lines. Anxious lyrics like “It’s hard not to think about everything going on, I carry a heavy weight so deep in my heart, so I really need you to bring me some light while we’re here in the dark…Sometimes I just need to hear those words, I know the reality is absurd, but I can’t fall asleep ‘til you say, ‘Baby we’ll be okay,” mirror our contemporary angst. Charlie’s affection for the effervescent Girl Group sound is what motivated her to form her trio, but she still likes to occasionally color outside the lines. On “Stone Cold Fox” and “Tonight’s The Night” she takes a

BY ELENI P. AUSTIN

couple of musical detours. “Stone…” is all over the map, wedding Rockabilly guitar and tumbling piano to a rock steady beat. The insouciant vocals echo ‘80s antecedents like Josie Cotton and the Go-Go’s, as playful lyrics celebrate a man who “holds her hand and brings the thunder.” The stinging guitar solo underscores her good fortune. Initially, “Tonight…” time-travels back to the ‘50s. Lush Doo-Wop inspired vocals trill on the opening verse, but rather quickly, barrelhouse piano, twangy guitars, fluttery organ and a blistering backbeat overtake the arrangement and the song splits the difference between frenzied Jitterbug and Day-glo New Wave. The best tracks here offer further evidence that the ladies aren’t afraid crosspollinate styles. “The Cream Rises To The Top” matches a sly tribal backbeat to a slightly tropical “Hukilau” melody. Twitchy, tangled guitar riffs, rock bottom bass lines, airy strings and a wash of Hammond B3 provide ballast. Charlie’s declaration of artistic independence is half (self) pep-talk, half origin story; “Rough and tumble girl she left her home, no one thought she’d make it on her own/With every beat against her she pressed on, ‘cause the cream rises to the top.” Her brash delivery, cushioned by the Fayettes’ cooing Greek chorus, nearly camouflages her inherent diffidence. Although the title “Night People” pays homage to the Allen Toussaint song of the same name, the two tracks are as different as, um, night and day. Guitars pivot between chicken-scratch riffs and shanga-lang licks. The sultry arrangement recalls the creamy Philadelphia International Soul sound pioneered by Gamble & Huff in the early ‘70s. The lyrics celebrate nocturnal party people; who are “a groovin’ kind of people, looking fine to go out on the town… curious kind of people, looking for that special spark, night people like to be with people and sometimes there’s a sweetness in the dark.” Syncopated horns and lush strings accent the languid mood. “Say Those Words” is an urgent declaration of love cloaked in a RockabillySurf-Spy Safari that blends strafing guitar, a rollicking rhythm, roller-rink keys and elastic bass lines. The melody shares some musical DNA with the Chiffons’ Goffin & King classic, “One Fine Day.” Charlie gives her beau

some explicit instructions, while haughtily referring to herself in the third person; “Do not take for granted your sweet, loving girl, every day your love must be expressed/ Other men may flatter and other men may flirt, so make sure she knows you love her best.” Meanwhile, the Fayettes “shoop-dowah” their asses off. Finally, “Riding High” locks into a buttery Southern groove. Warm electric piano licks at the edge of a sweet, Stax-Volt arrangement propelled by peppery horns, shimmery guitar, boomerang bass and a tensile backbeat. Besotted by true love, Charlie admits “people try talking to me, but their words go right through me, head in the clouds, head over heels for you baby/ Nothing can get me down now, because of what I’ve found now, my heart and mind are sound now that I got you babe.” Other interesting tracks include the slippery Sock Hop Slow Jam of “That’s What New Love Is For” and the giddy delight of the title track. The album closes with “You Gotta Give It Up (Party Song),” a hypnotic woke Party anthem for the 21st century. This one opens with one of those lipsmacking “Mwah” kisses that used to close out “The Dating Game.” Walloping drums pound out a tribal tattoo in lock-step with kinetic percussion and insistent handclaps. Walking bass lines patrol the perimeter as spitfire guitar notes detonate like smart bombs. Even as Charlie exhorts the listener to give it up, get down, show it up and shake it all around, she forcefully suggests “We got to wake up, we got to get wise/Don’t be afraid to Speak up, we got to organize.” One can only hope that Alexandria OcasioCortez works up a dance routine for this song while urging us to register to vote. This time out, Charlie and the Fayettes were augmented instrumentally by Marcus Watkins and Bill Kirchen on guitars, Chris Joyner on piano and keys. Horn and String arrangements were handled by Steve Ellson and Jim Hoke, respectively. Bill Barrett played harmonica, Steve Hermann was on trumpet, Kristen Weber on violin, Austin Hoke on cello and Mr. Pete Thomas pounded his drum kit with and authority. Again, Eric Holden achieves MVP status by tackling bass, synths, organs, baritone guitar, percussion, mellotron and glockenspiel, (gotta love a man who knows his way around a glockenspiel). He also produced The Whole Shebang. With this new record Charlie and the Fayettes confirm that their debut wasn’t a fluke. Giving the Girl Group sound a 21st century spin, means wondering less about the Leader Of The Pack and more about the leader of the free world. Having a social conscience and shaking your Groove thing is what these ladies are all about.

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

ARTSCENE COACHELLA VALLEY ROLLS OUT THE ART CARPET BYROMEOANGELA

esert X, Desert X Parallel Projects, Modernism Week, Art Palm Springs, La Quinta Arts Festival, Indian Wells Arts Festival, Stage Coach Music Festival and the Coachella Music festival – welcome to the Desert! All of these events are looming around the corner. Art Palm Springs8th Annual Show opens February 14 through February 18 at the Palm Springs Convention Center. Art Palm Springs will continue its partnership with the Palm Springs Art Museum with the Opening Night Beneficiary honoring 2019 Patron of The Year, Marilyn Pearl Loesberg. This year the show will honor Artist of The Year, Joe Goode. With a career spanning five decades, Goode’s work has been displayed in numerous galleries and museum exhibitions internationally. For more information on Art Palm Springs visit www.art-palmsprings.com Desert X is a 10-week biennial exhibition of site-specific art that debuted in 2017. It opens Feb. 9 and runs through April 21, with nineteen installations from Snow Creek to the Salton Sea, plus two locations in Mexico. Desert X is a free event. It is again curated by Artistic Director Neville Wakefield and 2019 Co-Curators Amanda Hunt and Matthew Schum. Desert X stated that it would continue, “to explore ideas of sitespecificity, the frame of post-institutional art and the interactive possibilities that attend it.” The nineteen site-specific installations and performances will feature international contemporary artists including: Iván Argote, Steve Badgett and Chris Taylor, Nancy Baker Cahill, Cecilia Bengolea, Pia Camil, John Gerrard, Julian Hoeber, Jenny Holzer, Iman Issa, Mary Kelly, Armando Lerma, Eric N. Mack, Cinthia Marcelle, Postcommodity, Cara Romero, Sterling Ruby, Kathleen Ryan, Gary Simmons and Superflex. The Desert X program and map of the 2019 installations will be included in Palm Springs Life Magazine. In addition there will be three Desert X Hubs where visitors can pick up a map, purchase a Desert X2017 catalog and

February 7 to February 13, 2019

view Encyclopedia (Desert X Edition),a new artificial intelligence created by Johannes Heldén in collaboration with Håkan Jonson. The Hubs are located at 82713 Miles Avenue Indio, 73660 El Paseo Palm Desert and the Ace Hotel & Swim Club, 701 E Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. There will also be public bus tours at $75.00, available every Saturday and Sunday at 9:00am and at 2:00pm. Complete information is available at desertx.org. Desert X Parallel Projects is an independent showcase of local artists from Joshua Tree to Pinyon Pines. Many of the planned installations will run at various locations through April. Other installation projects are also emerging. Colliding Worlds Fine Art will feature #MeetMatilda #UBoreMe. The installation highlights the disconnect of the selfie world from the real world. “That these two worlds exist in spite of each other is amazing,” noted artist Angela Romeo. “We are caught up in the minutia of ‘me’ and have seemingly lost touch with other people. Matilda sits in her world of self. This self-absorption continues despite the everchanging activity around her. She remains oblivious to all around her and is bored by the lack of activity that is not ‘her’. The public is invited to peer through the shades into Matilda’s world. They may attempt to interact with her or remain mesmerized by their own image.” This installation runs through the end of April. Colliding Worlds Fine Art Gallery is located 68-895 Perez Road, Unit I 13-14, Cathedral City.

#MEETMATILDA #UBOREME

February 7 to February 13, 2019

PET PLACE

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

BY JANET McAFEE

THE PET OASIS, PETS LOVE THIS PLACE!

local gem for pet lovers who want to keep their animals healthy and happy, The Pet Oasis is tucked away in the Ralph’s shopping center in Bermuda Dunes. This pet supply store caters to our special animals, seeking to meet their nutritional, recreational, wardrobe, and travel needs. An increasing number of health conscious pet owners seek pet foods that keep their animals healthy and extend their life span. A healthy and happy dog or cat means fewer veterinary bills. The American Pet Products Association estimates that Americans spent over 60 million dollars annually on their pets, up 25% from five years ago. Domestic pets are increasingly regarded as family members. These consumers often treat their animals with the same respect and love they demonstrate towards other humans, and want the very best for them. The Pet Oasis seeks to fills the niche for pet owners seeking quality and innovative products. Shana Holman, an animal lover with a degree in Business and Finance from the University of Arkansas, purchased The Pet Oasis in March, 2018. She owned several businesses in her native Arkansas before moving to the Coachella Valley. An avid dog lover, Shana adopted Ellie, an adorable long haired Chihuahua, after Ellie was rescued from an Arkansas puppy mill. Like many puppy mill survivors, Ellie was initially terrified,

MEET RAIN This 7-yr-old spirited and playful Arabian gilding seeks an experienced horse person to adopt him. Rescued by the Coachella Valley Horse Rescue in Indio, contact (760) 808-6279. www.cvhorserescue.org.

MEET ARNIE Rescued by Loving All Animals Pet Rescue Center from the DHS Shelter, 5-yrold Arnie needs a loving & patient family with dog experience. He weighs 21 lbs. Arnie is shy at first, but becomes quickly devoted. Call (760) 398-7722.

malnourished, and had medical problems. Shana explains, “I found The Pet Oasis carried the healthiest foods and supplements that Ellie needed during her recovery. I was a customer for about a year before I saw the Pet Oasis business online in my search for businesses for sale. I always had a great experience with the employees, and thought it would be a great fit as I loved the store. My passion for animals has always been an important part of my life. I am now a proud business owner and full time resident in the Coachella Valley.” As a customer of The Pet Oasis, I personally am impressed with the excellent customer service provided by their knowledgeable staff. They have good information about pet nutrition and pet supplies. They are efficient and friendly, and clearly care about their 4-legged customers. The Pet Oasis carries premium nutritional items including raw food, goats milk, bone broth and raw bones. Their pet food brands include Primal, Stella & Chewy, K9 Natural, Small Batch, Canidae, Origen, Nulo, Natural Balance, Nutrisource, and many others. The dog food brands they carry never contain corn, wheat, soy, raw hide, or byproducts. Fluffy and Fido will want to pick out a fun toy during their visit. Folks wanting their pet to look glamourous will find a good selection of dog apparel and gorgeous collars. The shop has a name tag machine, an

important item to keep dogs and cats safe. Allergies are a common and troubling problem for many canines. The shop offers the Glacier Peak Holistics Pet Wellness Lifescan Stress Test, a hair and saliva scan that identifies over 300 stressors and triggers in your dog’s diet and environment. Their cost is $89.99, less than the online price. The results are sent to the customer and The Pet Oasis so their staff can help select products to alleviate your dog’s allergy symptoms. I plan to order this one for my dog, Enzo Ferrari. This business supports the adoption of rescue dogs and cats. They host adoption events for two local rescue organizations. Cathy Borrego with BFF4pets and Susan Cole from Hope Ranch are frequently there on weekends with rescue dogs and cats seeking forever homes. The windows of the shop display flyers of homeless animals in need of loving homes. Contact The Pet Oasis at (760) 345-3199.

Come by and check out their fabulous pet supplies, adorable accessories, and healthy supply of foods or look online at www. thepetoasis.com. The shop is located at 42-220 Washington St in Bermuda Dunes. Their mission statement is: “Your pet’s health is our priority.” Janetmcafee8@gmail.com

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

THE VINO VOICE

BY RICK RIOZZA

THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF ICE WINE

lthough we desert dwellers are reasonably safe from crazy cold weather, every time the news reports the polar vortex phenomena sending freezing cold Arctic air southward across our country, I can’t stop myself from thinking about wonderful ice wine. It’s been called one of the sweetest mistakes nature has ever made. Reason being, probably no one would have ever purposefully produced it. The entire process of producing ice wine is very difficult. Harvesting grapes is a tough job; doing so in sub-zero temperatures battling frostbite, in the dark, on a moments alert, and getting it all done before the next morning’s sunshine can be described as misery. And, the game plan for such ice wine production is very iffy. One has to set out a certain amount of prized vines—those which could have produce a fine wine in October, but rather leaving the grapes hanging way into the winter shriveling away. Birds are known to destroy entire crops. And the grapes can fall prey to a host of other dangers—wild boar, disease, mold, rain, wind or hail. Unseasonably warm winter weather can thwart an ice wine harvest completely. But there is that hope that a quick evening cold frost, at just under 20 degrees Fahrenheit, will freeze the grapes immediately. After that one-night painstaking harvest is accomplished, the thousands of hard icy marbles of frozen grapes are then brought to the winery and into a grape crusher and then into a grape press. As one could imagine at such point, many things can go wrong with machinery under the pressure of attempting to press the concentrated grape sugar syrup from those marbles! But it is that juice—a touch of essence and a touch of frost—that is magic! And only about a tenth to a fifth of the sparse liquid in these frozen grapes is used for

February 7 to February 13, 2019

ice wine because the juice is so sweet. Thereafter it can take anywhere from 3 to 6 months in a long slow, finicky fermentation to make ice wine. The final alcohol content will range from 7% to 10% and has almost double the sweetness of a Coca-Cola. But never think is tastes like a Coke! 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 litchi are also quite common. But the most impressive thing is that while ice wines are extraordinarily sweet, they are balanced by laser-focused acidity exhibiting bright fruit essences—a great freshness! I know there are so many of you vino lovers who consistently shun sweet wines. However, a wine enthusiast must at least try an ice wine once in their life. Most folks, even those who especially hate “sweet wines” will become fans when they realize

the bracing acidity keeps the experience fresh, alive, and exciting. 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 region of New York, also produce excellent wines. My favorite region of ice wine production is in the Franken and Rheingau areas where the Germans have been perfecting the process and providing some brilliant and tasty eiswein. “An ideal Eiswein is like a diamond.” says Rowell Hepp, managing director of Schloss Vollrads in Rheingau “Crystal clear, pristine, pure, cool—it’s the benchmark for which all other Eisweins are judged.” My first ice wine romance involved a very rare 1986 bottle of wine made from shriveled but premium Riesling grapes that had hung on the vines until Christmas Eve where a quick and total freeze hit the vineyards. All of the grapes were handharvested that night before the Christmas Day sunrise could threaten its incremental heat to thaw and ruin the fruit. An ice wine makes a perfect aperitif; it’s great with soft cheeses; it’s a fun side quaff at the dinner table; and, of course, it’s one of the world’s best dessert wines capable of pairing with all of your sweet dishes. Bon Appétit & Cheers! VALENTINES WINE DINNER ALERT: I just received notice of an up-coming winepairing dinner that is to be held at both LG’s Prime Steakhouses locations in our valley. The San Antonio Winery, which was established in 1917, is the featured winery. They are well known around here due to the venerable winery in Los Angeles and their other winery tasting room location in Ontario. San Antonio Winery is part of the Riboli Family Wine Estates who are blessed today to have four generations of family contributing to their success. Their vineyards are now located in Paso Robles, Monterey and Napa Valley and we are proud to be one of the most awarded wineries in California—indeed, they were recently voted the 2018 American Winery of the Year by Wine Enthusiast Magazine. Their wine labels include: Stella Rosa, San Simeon, Maddelena, Opaque, and Riboli Family. It’s great to see LG’s and San Antonio putting together a wonderful menu to showcase both the restaurant cuisine and the wine making talents of the two. Go online or call for details on the Five Course Dinner. lgsprimesteakhouse.com. La Quinta location, Tues. Feb 12th 5:30pm; Palm Springs location, Wed. Feb 13th 5:30pm. Cost $100. per person++

February 7 to February 13, 2019

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

THUR FEBRUARY 7

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Bobby Furgo & Co 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 TBA 9pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Bill and Doug Duo 6:30pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 DJ LF 7pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Barry Minniefield and Brian Dennigan 7pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 Cars, Stars and Rock N Roll w/ Guy Worden 6-11:30pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 John Stanley King 6-10pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm CASUELAS CAFÉ; PD; 760-568-0011 Johnny Meza and Co. 6-10pm CATALAN; RM; 760-770-9508 George Christian 6-9pm CHEF GEORGE’S PICASSO LOUNGE; PD; 760200-1768 Michael D’Angelo 6:30-9:30pm COPA NIGHTCLUB; PS; 760-866-0021 Lipstick hosted by Bella Da Ball 8pm, DJs Banks and Ax 10pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill Baker 6pm DESMOND’S @ THE S; RM; 760-328-2111 TBA 5-8pm DHS SPA LOUNGE; DHS; 760-329-6787 Karaoke w/ DJ Scott 9pm EUREKA; IW; 760-834-7700 TBA 8-10pm FISHERMAN’S GROTTO; PD; 760-776-6534 Barry Baughn Blues Band 5:30-8:30pm FRANK’S PLACE; IW; 760-797-8700 Patricia Welsh 6-9pm HENRY’S SPORTS BAR AND GRILL; CC; 760656-3444 DJ 10pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm HOODOO COCKTAIL GARDEN @ THE HYATT; PS; 760-322-9000 Chris Lomeli 7pm

HOTEL PASEO; PD; Michael Keeth 4-7pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 TBA 9pm LANDMARK LOUNGE; LQ; 760-289-6736 DJ Alex Harrington 7pm LA QUINTA RESORT; LQ; 760-564-4111 Steppin Out 6-9pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-325-2794 Hot Roxx 6:30pm LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-345-2450 Country Night w/ Doo Wah Riders 9pm THE LOUNGE, AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 888-9991995 Quinto Menguante 8-1am MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm MOXIE; PS; 760-318-9900 Pedro Le Bass 9:30pm 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 Travis Cline and Derelict Doublewide 8pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Mega Sun, Captain Ghost and Josh Ballard 9pm PURPLE ROOM; PS; 760-322-4422 Sharon Sills 6:30pm RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 DJ Guy Worden 9pm ROWAN; PS; 760-904-5015 TBA 6-9pm 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; 760-341-3560 Dude Jones 6:30pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 Karaoke 9pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Mike Cosley 6:30pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Robert Salisbury 4:40-6pm, The Steve Oliver Band 6:3010pm THE VINE WINE BAR; PD; 760-341-9463 Live Music 7pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Trio NV 5-8pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 Linda Peterson 6:30pm ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 Banda Night w/ Banda Sin Nombre and DJ Markuz Area 9pm

FRI FEBRUARY 8

19TH HOLE; PD; 760-772-6696 Live Music 8pm 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Bob Garcia 6:30pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Jetset w/ Nena Anderson 8pm AGAVE LOUNGE@THE HYATT REGENCY; IW; 760-674-4080 TBA 7-11pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Live Music 6:30pm AMERICAN LEGION; PS; 760-325-6229 TBA 5:30-7:30pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Earkraft w/ DJs Hymn, Captain Osiv and Addemup 7pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Barry Minniefield, Brian Dennigan and Leon Bisquera 7pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 Cars, Stars and Rock N Roll w/ Mirage (Fleetwood Mac Tribute) 7pm, Manuel the Band 8pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 The Stanley Butler Trio 6-10pm CASCADE LOUNGE, SPA RESORT CASINO; PS; 888-999-1995 DJ Chase Martinez 9-1am CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm

CASUELAS CAFÉ; PD; 760-568-0011 The Myx 6:30-10pm CATALAN; RM; 760-770-9508 George Christian 6-9pm CHEF GEORGE’S PICASSO LOUNGE; PD; 760200-1768 Michael D’Angelo 6:30-9:30pm COPA NIGHTCLUB; PS; 760-866-0021 Viva Friday’s w/ DJ Banks 9pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill Baker 6pm DESERT FOX; PD; Petting Zoo 9pm DESMOND’S @ THE S; RM; 760-328-2111 Slim Man 5:30-9pm DRINGK; RM; 760-888-0111 DJ Journee 9pm ELECTRIC SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-228-1199 DJ Ceddy Cedd 9pm EL MEXICALI CAFÉ 2; IND; 760-342-2333 Cesar Daniel Lopez on the harp 6-9pm FISHERMAN’S GROTTO; PD; 760-776-6534 Gina Carey 5:30-8:30pm FRANK’S PLACE; IW; 760-797-8700 Frankie DiSalvo 6-9pm GADI’S BAR & GRILL; YV; 760-820-1213 TBA 8pm HENRY’S SPORTS BAR AND GRILL; CC; 760656-3444 Karaoke w/ KJ Marjovi 9pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Karr and Instigator 9pm HOODOO COCKTAIL GARDEN @ THE HYATT; PS; 760-322-9000 Keisha D 7pm HOTEL PASEO; PD; Michael Keeth 4-7pm HOT SPOT@SPOTLIGHT 29; INDIO; 760-7755566 Nacho Bustillos 8:30pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760-3456466 Bob Allen 6pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Karaoke 7:30pm KILO’S CANTINA; TP; 760-835-1363 TBA 9pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Karaoke 8pm LA FE WINE BAR; PD; 760-565-1430 Lance Riebsomer and Friends 9pm LANDMARK LOUNGE; LQ; 760-289-6736 Morgan Ashley 7pm LA QUINTA RESORT; LQ; 760-564-4111 Steppin Out 6-9pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-325-2794 Hot Roxx 7:30pm LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-345-2450 Finesse 9pm THE LOUNGE; AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 888-9991995 DJ Jerry 9pm MASTRO’S; PD; 760-776-6777 TBA 6:30-11pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm MOXIE; PS; 760-318-9900 Eevaan Tre 6:30pm, DJ Pedro Le Bass 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; 760-327-4080 Moonchild 9pm PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB; PD; 760-3450222 Steve Williams Experience 6:30pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 The Paul Chesne Band 8pm 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 The Judy Show 8pm RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 The Refills 9pm RIVIERA; PS; 760-327-8311 Michael Keeth 8pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Evaro Brothers 8pm

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

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 SOLANO’S BISTRO; LQ; 760-771-6655 Michael Madden 6-9pm SONOMA GRILL; PD; 760-340-6600 Denny Pezzin 6-9pm SOUL OF MEXICO; IND; 760-200-8787 Latin Rock 10pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-341-3560 Demetrious and Co. 6:30pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 TBA 9pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Dennis Michaels 6:30pm TRILUSSA ITALIAN RISTORANTE; PS; 760-3282300 Julius & Sylvia Music Duo 6-10pm VENUE@VENUS; PD; 760-834-7070 Salsa Party w/ Luis N Lori 5-7pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 “Meet the Corwins” 5:30-7:30pm, The John Stanley King Show 8pm THE VINE WINE BAR; PD; 760-341-9463 Jack Ruvio 6pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 DJ Galaxy and the House Whores 5pm WESTIN MISSION HILLS; RM; 760-328-5955 Michael Keeth 5-7pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 Rose Mallett 6:30pm ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 Fantasy Friday w/ DJ LF and Cali Redd 9pm

SAT FEBRUARY 9

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Bev and Bill 6:30pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Discoteca w/ DJ Victor Rodriguez noon, poolside, TBA 10pm AGAVE LOUNGE@THE HYATT REGENCY; IW; 760-674-4080 Steppin’ Out 7-11pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Cabaret on the Green Open Mic 7:30pm BACKSTREET BISTRO; PD; 760-346-6393 Linda Peterson 12:30-3:30pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 DJs Dxsko and Mick Mac 7pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Barry Minniefield, Brian Dennigan and Leon Bisquera 7pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 Cars, Stars and Rock N Roll w/ Noise Pollution (AC/DC Tribute) 7pm, Laurie Morvan 8:30pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 Gennine Francis 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 CASUELAS CAFÉ; PD; 760-568-0011 The Myx 6:30-10pm CATALAN; RM; 760-770-9508 George Christian 6-9pm COACHELLA VALLEY BREWING CO; TP; 760343-5973 Craft Stand Up Comedy 7pm COPA NIGHTCLUB; PS; 760-866-0021 DJ Banks and Mr. Miami 9pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill Baker 6pm DESERT FOX; PD; DJ Alfresco 9pm DESMOND’S @ THE S; RM; 760-328-2111 Philip Poe Epstein 5:30-9pm DHS SPA LOUNGE; DHS; 760-329-6787 Karaoke w/ DJ Scott 9pm

DRINGK; RM; 760-888-0111 DJ Journee 9pm ELECTRIC SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-228-1199 DJ Ceddy Cedd 9pm EL MEXICALI CAFÉ 2; IND; 760-342-2333 Cesar Daniel Lopez on the harp 6-9pm FISHERMAN’S GROTTO; PD; 760-776-6534 Jack Ruvio 5:30-8:30pm FRANK’S PLACE; IW; 760-797-8700 Frankie DiSalvo 6-9pm GADI’S BAR & GRILL; YV; 760-820-1213 Trifecta 8pm THE GROOVE LOUNGE; SPOTLIGHT 29; INDIO; 760-775-5566 DJ 8pm HARVEY’S LOUNGE; PS; 760-320-6868 SLS Event Group Presents: Vinyl DJ Sets 9pm HENRY’S SPORTS BAR AND GRILL; CC; 760656-3444 DJ Ray 9pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 TK’s Bday w/ Blasting Echo, The Flusters and Murkocet 9pm HOODOO COCKTAIL GARDEN @ THE HYATT; PS; 760-322-9000 The Carmens 7pm HOTEL PASEO; PD; Michael Keeth 4-10pm HOT SPOT@SPOTLIGHT 29; INDIO; 760-7755566 Nacho Bustillos 8:30pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760-3456466 Bob Allen 6pm JC’S CAFÉ; PD; 760-568-0733 Vinny Berry 3-7pm KILO’S CANTINA; TP; 760-835-1363 Los Tenampaz Del Norte 9pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Karaoke 8pm LA FE WINE BAR; PD; 760-565-1430 Vinny Berry 9pm LANDMARK LOUNGE; LQ; 760-289-6736 Eevaan Tre 7pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-325-2794 PS Sound Company 1pm, Hot Roxx 8pm LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-345-2450 Finesse 9pm THE LOUNGE, AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 888-9991995 TBA 9pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm MIRAMONTE; IW; 760-341-2200 Trio NV 6-10pm MOXIE; PS; 760-318-9900 Derek Jordan Gregg 6pm, DJ Pedro Le Bass 9:30pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8pm THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760-327-4080 Stevie Nicks and Fleetwood Mac Tribute Band 9pm PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB; PD; 760-3450222 DysFunksion 6:30pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 Alex Cameron and Roy Malloy: Take Care of Business 8pm PEABODY’S CAFÉ; PS; 760-322-1877 Karaoke 7:30pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-3432115 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm PURPLE ROOM; PS; 760-322-4422 Jonathan Karrant 8pm RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 TBA 9pm ROWAN; PS; 760-904-5015 Lance Riebsomer 6-9pm 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 SONOMA GRILL; PD; 760-340-6600 Denny Pezzin 6-9pm

February 7 to February 13, 2019

SOUL OF MEXICO; IND; 760-200-8787 Latin Music 10pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-341-3560 Demetrious and Co. 6:30pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 TBA 9pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Reggie “Vision” Alexander 6:30pm TRILUSSA ITALIAN RISTORANTE; PS; 760-3282300 Julius & Sylvia Music Duo 6-10pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Rose Mallett and Co. 5-7pm, Kal David, Lauri Bono and the Real Deal 7:30pm THE VINE WINE BAR; PD; 760-341-9463 Live Music 7pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Live Music 6:30pm WESTIN MISSION HILLS; RM; 760-328-5955 Michael Keeth 6pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 The Stanley Butler Band 6:30pm ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 Snapchat Saturdays w/DJ LF and Cali Redd 9pm

SUN FEBRUARY 10

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Bob Garcia 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 DJ 11am poolside, and 9pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Sunday Brunch w/ Live Music 11am BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 The Kick Back Latain and Hip Hop Beats w/ DJ LF and Friends 7pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Patrice Morris 7pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 Cars, Stars and Rock N Roll w/ Desert Rhythm Project 4-7pm, Stephen Connolly : Elvis Tribute 7-9pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 Michael Keeth 5pm continue to page 22

February 7 to February 13, 2019

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

BREWTALITY

uch the way no one can truly predict what videos or memes go internet viral, no one can truly figure out why certain countries, states or regions end up falling in love with foods that the rest of civilization deems trash. Take Hawaii and Spam for example (I grew up in Hawaii and developed a love for Filipino, Puerto Rican, and other ethnic foods popular in the islands, but I hate Spam and It will always be garbage food to me). Brought to the Islands as a GI ration during WWII, natives were given the stuff and they fell in love with it for some godawful reason. Not too dissimilar is the love that Latin America has for Malta, and while I happen to be a fan of the drink, no one else I know is. Beer’s been around for as long as written language has (in fact, one of the first things the ancient Sumerians ever wrote down was a recipe for beer), but it was the Germans and Bavarians of the 16th century that really refined beer making into a stringent science. The beer purity law of 1516 (credited to the Germans but actually created by the Bavarians and adopted by Germany) allowed only barley, hops, and water as ingredients in beer, so brewers created variety by both roasting malts to different degrees (thereby adding a range of roasted characters when added to beer) and creating beers of varying strengths. Low alcohol beer was created by interrupting the fermentation process early on, leaving behind a sweet and confection-

February 7 to February 13, 2019

I MADE PEOPLE DRINK MALTA AND THEY ALL HATED IT!

like beverage that was high in B vitamins and amino-acids. Considered a nourishing drink for children and nursing mothers, this new and un-intoxicating type of beer was called Malzbier, which literally jut means “malt beer” (which is a completely redundant a name as they could have come up with). Nicknames for this uber-vitamin drink include Kinderbier, which translates to “children’s beer” and, most appropriately, Malztrunk, which simply means “malt beverage”. Although evidence suggests malta had been consumed for centuries, it was Danish brewery Abani that claimed to first to create the beverage in 1859. While that claim is dubious and a total weird flex, they indeed may have been the first to commercially

package and sell the product instead of just brew and sell it from a taproom. With the bottling of malta, the near-beer beverage could be marketed and distributed to a wider audience, growing its popularity in Scandinavia and eastern Europe. Malta really hit its boom when it was introduced to African and Latin American countries during the early-to-mid 1900’s, and boy, let me tell you how. The Caribbean proved an especially lucrative market for malta, with Puerto Rico launching the Malta India brand in 1939, which remains the most popular brand in the country. The Maltex brand was first produced in Nigeria in 1967, and by the end of the decade, malta products were reformulated to be cheaper and more cost efficient to make. What was for years a drink created in the exact same way that beer was, became a concoction of malt extract, hop oil, corn sugar, caramel color, and phosphoric acid. This cheaper and easier to produce malta tasted very similar to the traditional recipe, and helped its popularity continue to grow. Everywhere except North America that is. From what I’ve learned, you couldn’t pay my friends enough to enjoy malta. I coerced/bullied a handful of my coworkers into drinking Goya Malta, a brand that claims south American heritage but was founded in New York. Of the four who braved glasses of the drink, only one admittedly enjoyed the flavor, calling molasses flavored,

BY AARON RAMSON very sweet and slightly fruity. Another coworker described the taste as “caramel covered prunes,” and yet another declared it “tastes like this natural cough syrup I gave my son and it made him barf.” A poll taken on social media did not turn up any more fans of the stuff. Of the reviews left by malta detractors, the flavor was described as “gross,” “pure nastiness,” “gross” once again, and “foul nastiness.” One former malta victim stated’ “I thought it would taste like Whopper candies. It did not.” I still haven’t been able to put my finger on why malta is so beloved in other countries yet reviled in the US. Much like Spam Hawaii and Vegemite in Australia, it could just be there are certain food and beverages that endure through hard times long enough to become a staple, consumed throughout childhood and celebrated as a part of culture. Though malta has become little more than a barleybased soda, it has its roots firmly planted in the art of beer making, and any experienced homebrewer can make a stovetop version that reflects its original flavor. If you’ve never tried it, Goya Malta is the most widely distributed brand and can be found in the international foods isle of most grocery stores.

February 7 to February 13, 2019

SCREENERS

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

No. 355

COLD CASE BY ROBIN E. SIMMONS

NOW SHOWING ARCTIC

Check out this engaging romance with cool Zulu action in a new 4K restoration transfer. Twilight Time Movies. SATAN NEVER SLEEPS (1962)

In Joe Penna’s stark, minimalist and beautifully photographed lone survival story, Mads Mikkelsen is a pilot stranded in the Arctic who may be about to receive his long awaited rescue. But when the helicopter that finds him crashes, the pilot is killed and the passenger severely injured. He then must decide whether to remain in the relative safety of his camp or to embark on a deadly trek through unknown territory for potential salvation.

This story of self-reliance and survival is told with such austerity and integrity the results are absolutely breathtaking, even in the quieter moments when the movie seems to move at a glacial pace. Visually striking and brilliantly crafted, this film is a potent reminder of the power of images without dialogue. Mikkelsen generates sympathy acting mostly by himself finding hope amid terrifying circumstances. If hard-core survival stories are your cupof-tea, don’t miss this instant classic. You will not be disappointed. But be warned, it’s not for the faint-hearted. Strong recommendation.

NEW BLU FOR THE HOME THEATER: UNTAMED (1955)

Widely touted as a kind of South African Gone with the Wind, 1955’s mammothscaled romantic action epic tells the story of Irish immigrant Katie (Susan Hayward, Nixon’s favorite actress) and Boer Cavalry commander Paul van Ribeck (Tyrone Power in his final film); their romance begins in Ireland and faces trials and dangerous escapades in an agitated South Africa. Richard Egan, Agnes Moorhead and Rita Moreno also star in this mostly forgotten action adventure directed by veteran Henry King, shot on location in Ireland and South Africa by Leo Tover, and featuring a spectacular score by the great Franz Waxman. Director King expertly uses the wide CinemaScope canvas to capture the mileslong wagon train stretching over the African terrain as well as the eye-popping enormity of two Zulu attacks.

From three-time Academy Award © winning director Leo McCarey comes a rarely seen and strangely compelling Pearl S. Buck story (adapted by McCarey and Claude Binyon) set during Mao’s 1949 Chinese Communist Revolution. William Holden and Clifton Webb are a pair of priests struggling to maintain a mission post in a hostile climate. Complicating matters is the presence of a lovely young girl (France Nuyen) unfortunately in love with Holden’s Father O’Banion. A major theme is the Christian notion of forgiveness and redemption extended to even the most repulsive and repellant characters – a subject that McCarey was personally drawn to. The evocative score by Richard Rodney Bennett is a perfect match for the superb images captured by the gifted Oswald Morris. This was the final film of both co-writer/ director McCarey and iconic co-star Clifton Webb. The sparkling 4K restoration transfer is from Twilight Time Movies. The edition is limited to only 3,000 units. Once they are gone, that’s it. For more info, go to: www. screenarchives.com

robin@coachellavalleyweekly

BOOK REVIEW

s Coachella Valley festivals go, there is none more exclusive, exciting or elite as the Rancho Mirage Writers Festival. Held at the Rancho Mirage Library and Observatory, the Sixth Annual Rancho Mirage Writers Festival hosted 45 authors and 16 notable moderators. Over four days last week, the festival had 89 author sessions that included 11 New York Times Bestsellers, seven Pulitzer Prize winners, five Academy Award recipients and one Tony Award winner. The theme this year was World War II and D-Day to honor the 75th anniversary of the Normandy landing. With its primary focus on geo-political non-fiction authors, the festival always celebrates its Hollywood connections and includes favorite fiction authors as well. Actor, author and raconteur Tom Hanks kicked off the fun while actress Sally Field closed the festival. Former California Governors Jerry Brown and Grey Davis participated as well as Rancho Mirage resident the former Senator Barbara Boxer. Fiction writers Craig Johnson, Dennis Lahane and Meg Wolitzer took the stage to talk about their works. All three authors have had their material adapted for television and film. Karl Rove, senior advisor to President George W. Bush returned this year after he charmed and entertained festivalgoers at the fifth annual RMWF.

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

RANCHO MIRAGE WRITERS FESTIVAL

Dr. Lucy Jones, the seismologist we all turned to when we experienced an earthquake attended. She is the author of The Big Ones a book that looks at the earth forces and the world’s greatest natural disasters. Print and broadcast journalists included Maureen Dowd, Douglas Brinkley, Meryl Gordon, Charlie LeDuff, Patt Morrison, and Brett Stephens. Travel writer and novelist Paul Theroux participated, as did actor and thespian Sir Derek Jacobi who was interviewed by Peter Bart former Paramount studio head and Variety editor. Authors Anne Applebaum and British Labour politician Lord Mandelson discussed if the US/UK “Special Relationship” was indeed still special. Anne Sebba and Philip Each chatted about the future of the British monarchy and what might happen when the Queen dies.

Dr. Erroll Southers spoke about his book Homegrown Violent Extremism and how communities can reduce their risk. Mike Reiss (“The Simpsons”), and Nell Scovell (“The Simpsons,” “Monk,” “Murphy Brown”) made festivalgoers laugh as they dished on Hollywood. A book I’m excited about reading is Kirk Wallace Johnson’s The Feather Thief: Beauty, Obsession, and the Natural History Heist of the Century. He talked about his six-year investigation trekking around the world looking for zoological justice. Author and historian H.W. Brand is another festival favorite. He talked about his book Heirs of the Founders. The RMWF is stacked with historians, scholars and political insiders speaking on and considering timely subjects and dynamic topics. It is a powerhouse of informed, significant and eloquent writers. On top of all the intellectual stimulation,

February 7 to February 13, 2019

BY HEIDI SIMMONS

the RMWF includes lunches, coffee/ pastry bar, and valet parking. One of the things that make this festival the best in the world is that it is an intimate venue that allows for personal interaction. The authors mingle and are accessible. Seating is limited and tickets sell out within hours. All of the author sessions are recorded and can be watched for free. They can be seen on Rancho Mirage TV or go to the festival’s website rmwritersfest.org/videos. Previous RMWF segments are also on YouTube. The Seventh Annual Rancho Mirage Writers Festival will be held January 28–31, 2020 with another amazing line up. With the presidential election in November ‘20, it should be a dynamic and outstanding festival as well. Mark your calendar. Passes go on sale March 1! The cost for being a part of such an exclusive event is a great value even at $500. If you want to interact on an even higher level with the authors, consider becoming an “Angel.” Donations cover eighty percent of the festival’s budget. RMWF is an awesome event. Books, reading and meaningful conversation are essential to the health and well-being of our nation, community and ourselves.

SAFETY TIPS

BY FIRE CHIEF SAM DIGIOVANNA

POWER OF FITNESS FOR YOUR HEART!

“

eart disease kills over a half million people every year. It’s no surprise February is Heart Awareness month. Together, we all can prevent and cardiovascular disease (CVD), one step at a time,” says Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna. Give your Valentine a gift of health by joining Power of Fitness in Palm Desert. Not only is exercise good for the heart, it makes you look and feel better about yourself! First, check with your Doctor. And then monitor your blood pressure. High blood pressure often has no symptoms, so be sure to have it checked on a regular basis. Get your cholesterol checked and eat a healthy diet. Choosing healthful meal and snack options can help you avoid CVD and its complications. Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight or obese can increase your risk for CVD. Exercise regularly. Physical activity can help you maintain a healthy weight and lower cholesterol and blood pressure. Don’t smoke. Cigarette smoking greatly increases your risk for CVD. Limit alcohol use. Avoid drinking too much alcohol, which can increase your blood pressure. Power of Fitness has over 13,000 s.f. of

fitness and exercise equipment, over 35 small group training classes and seminars keeping members engaged and informed. They have certified personal trainers, custom nutrition and exercise programs, and group health and fitness classes. Contact Power of Fitness GM Ken Ebner at 760.770.9393 or come by at 72750 Dinah Shore Dr. Palm Desert. Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

February 7 to February 13, 2019

CLUB CRAWLER NIGHTLIFE continued from page 17

CASCADE LOUNGE, SPA RESORT; PS; 888-9991995 Nash with Quinto Menguante 9pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm COACHELLA VALLEY BREWING CO; TP; 760-343-5973 Acoustic Afternoon w/ James Velasquez, The Sieve and the Saddle, Courtney Chambers and Krystofer Do 2-5pm DHS SPA LOUNGE; DHS; 760-329-6787 Radio 60 3-6pm EL MEXICALI CAFÉ 2; IND; 760-342-2333 Cesar Daniel Lopez on the harp 6-9pm FRANK’S PLACE; IW; 760-797-8700 Ted Herman 6-8pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 4th Annual CV Music Showcase Round 3 w/ The CMF’s, Ormus, Mega Sun and When Tides Turn 9pm LANDMARK LOUNGE; LQ; 760-289-6736 Scott Carter 7pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-325-2794 PS Sound Company noon, Hot Roxx 6:30pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Sunday Jam 3:30-7:30pm, Mikael Healy 8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8pm THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Sunday Jam Session 2-5pm, Finesse 7-11pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 The Sunday Band 8pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-3432115 Open Mic w/ Rockin’ Ray 7pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; LQ; 760-777-1601 Jack Ruvio 6-9pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-341-3560 The Myx 6:30pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Darci Daniels and Reggie Vision 7pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 The John Stanley King Trio 6-9:30pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Live Music 5pm WILDEST GREENS; PD; 760-636-0441 Lance Riebsomer 11-2:30pm

WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 John Carey and Friends 6:30pm

MON FEBRUARY 11

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 The Luminators 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 TBA 8pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Bill Marx 6:30pm BACKSTREET BISTRO; PD; 760-346-6393 Johnny Morris 5:30-9pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Meh Mondays 7pm CASUELAS CAFÉ; PD; 760-568-0011 The Mighty Sweet Nothings 5:30pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm COPA NIGHTCLUB; PS; 760-866-0021 DJ Banks and Mr. Miami 8pm DESMOND’S @ THE S; RM; 760-328-2111 Sergio Villegas 5:30-9pm DRINGK; RM; 760-888-0111 DJ Journee 9pm FRANK’S PLACE; IW; 760-797-8700 Larry Capeloto 6-9pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-325-2794 PS Sound Company 6:30pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760325-2323 Mikael Healey 8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8pm-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 7:30pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 Puss in Boots 8pm PURPLE ROOM; PS; 760-322-4422 Keisha D 6:30pm ROWAN; PS; 760-904-5015 Michael Keeth 6-9pm VENUE@VENUS; PD; 760-834-7070 Jazz and Fashion Party 5-7pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Barry Baughn Blues Band 6:30pm

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Nick Sosa 7pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 Motown Mondays 7pm ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 DJ LF hosted by Cali Redd 8pm

TUE FEBRUARY 12

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Micha Schellhaas 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Ace Karaoke with Kiesha 9pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Shelley Yoelin Group 9:30pm BACKSTREET BISTRO; PD; 760-346-6393 Live Jazz 6:30pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 TBA 7pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Chris Lomeli 7pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 Big Rocking Country Tuesdays 6-10pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill Baker 6pm DESMOND’S @ THE S; RM; 760-328-2111 John Carey 5:30-9pm FIRESIDE LOUNGE; PS; 760-327-1700 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm FRANK’S PLACE; IW; 760-797-8700 Terri Olsen and the Perfect Blend 6-9pm HENRY’S SPORTS BAR AND GRILL; CC; 760656-3444 Karaoke w/ KJ Danny 9pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Bingo Tuesdays 9pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Karaoke 9pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Ted Quinn’s Open Mic 7pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Karaoke 7pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-325-2794 PS Sound Company 6:30pm LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-345-2450 Brad’s Pad 7pm

MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760325-2323 Mikael Healey 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; 760-3274080 Acoustic Music Lounge w/ Grady James 7pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-3432115 Game Night w/ Luke 8pm PURPLE ROOM; PS; 760-322-4422 Rose Mallett 6:30pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 Cinch 6pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 John McCormick and The Shelly Scott Band 6:30-10pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Alex Santana 5-8pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 Yve Evans and John Bolivar 6pm ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 Coachella Tuesday w/ DJ Jeezy and Cali Redd 9pm

WED FEBRUARY 13

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Daniel Horn 6pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Jazz Jam w/ Doug MacDonald & Friends 7pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Whiskey Wednesdays w/ Touchtunes 7pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Chris Lomeli 7pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 Smooth Brothers 7pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 Michael Keeth 6-10pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm COACHELLA VALLEY BREWING CO; TP; 760343-5973 Open Mic 6-8pm COPA NIGHTCLUB; PS; 760-866-0021 Issa Wednesday Humpday w/ DJ Ax 9pm

CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill Baker 6pm DESMOND’S @ THE S; RM; 760-328-2111 Joe Baldino 5:30-9pm DRINGK; RM; 760-888-0111 S.I.N. w/ DJ Mirage 9pm ELECTRIC SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-228-1199 Karaoke 7:30pm FRANK’S PLACE; IW; 760-797-8700 Terri Olsen and Patricia Welsh 6:30pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Open Mic Hosted by Josh Heinz 8pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Karaoke 7:30pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Open Mic 8pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-325-2794 Hot Roxx 6:30pm LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-345-2450 Latin Night 7pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760325-2323 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; 760-3274080 Roger & Friends 7pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm PURPLE ROOM; PS; 760-322-4422 Michael Holmes Trio 6:30pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Katheryn White 6:30pm VENUE@VENUS; PD; 760-834-7070 Wine Down Wednesday w/ Johnny Meza 4-6pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 The Slim Man Band 6:30-10pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Jeff Bonds 5-8pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 Shelley Yoelin’s Jazz Showcase 6:30pm ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 Calentura Nights w/ DJ LF 9pm

publisher@coachellavalleyweekly.com

S and G

PUMPING SERVICE

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

760-404-6325

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

HADDON LIBBY

BENCHMARKS

February 7 to February 13, 2019

ow did your 401k/investment account do in 2018? For most people, it was the worst year since the Great Recession of 2008. Now that January has reversed much of 2018 losses, check how your investment approach fared versus market averages (aka benchmarks). To assess whether your returns were good, bad or so-so, it is best to find a benchmark that is representative of your investment portfolio. For example, if you are 100% in stocks and those stocks are based in the United States, the S&P 500 index represents the combine returns of the 500 largest companies in the United States. If you hold international stocks in addition to domestic stocks, a benchmark like Morningstar’s Global equities index is a good one as it consists of stocks from around the world including the United States. To assess your performance starts with knowing how much you hold in equities and how much you have in fixed income. Morningstar offers five indeces that help most investors get an idea as to how their investments are doing: 85%+ Equity, 70-85% Equity, 50-70% Equity, 30-50% Equity and 15-30% Equity. If you are 100% in fixed income, consider Barclay’s Aggregate Bond Index. One of the eight indeces below should fit your investment approach: Benchmark 4th Quarter 2018 January 2019 2008-2018 S&P 500 -14.0% 8.0% 12.6% (100% US Equities) Morningstar Global -13.0% 8.1% 11.7% (100% All Equities) 85%+ Equity -13.7% 8.4% 10.1% 70-85% Equity -11.4% 7.0% 9.1% 50-70% Equity -8.6% 5.7% 8.3% 30-50% Equity -6.0% 4.4% 6.7% 15-30% Equity -3.2% 2.9% 5.5% Barclay’s Aggregate Bond 1.6% 0.8% 3.7% (100% US Bonds)

Within the split between large, mid and small companies, you will often hear that someone is a value or growth investor. What this typically means is that a value investor is more conservative and prefers a reliable stream of dividends while the growth investor is willing to take more risk and fewer dividends in return for faster capital appreciation: Benchmark 4th Quarter 2018 January 2019 2008-2018 U.S. Value -11.0% 7.9% 13.3% U.S. Blend -14.9% 8.5% 15.2% U.S. Growth -16.4% 10.1% 17.0%

If your account earns less than those shown above, find a fiduciary advisor (like my firm), to do a free review of your portfolio and help you in figuring out why your returns lag. Fiduciaries advisors are different than broker advisors in that they must put your interests first. Broker advisors are allowed put themselves and their firms ahead of their clients. Some people like looking at their equity holdings based on size: Benchmark 4th Quarter 2018 January 2019 2008-2018 Large Cap -13.3% 7.7% 14.8% Mid Cap -15.1% 11.3% 16.5% Small Cap -19.5% 12.4% 15.7%

What these charts show is that a patient and consistent investor did very well over the last ten years. Patience and consistency trump emotions and reactionary decision-making when it comes to investments. By improving investment selection and paying attention to costs, you should improve returns which can be the difference between living in comfort and struggling in retirement. If this is all too hard to understand, drop me a note and either myself or someone on my team will be happy to help. Haddon Libby is the Founder and Managing Partner of award-nominated Winslow Drake Investment Management, a team of Fiduciary Advisors that always put the client first. To contact us, email Haddon at Hlibby@WinslowDrake.com or visit www.WinslowDrake.com.

DALE GRIBOW ON THE LAW

HOW DO I SUE FOR DAMAGES?

ast week we tackled Can I sue for ...? Today we learn the process of suing for damages through Civil Litigation. Civil litigation is usually litigation involving private parties, as opposed to criminal where you are prosecuted by the state. Civil could be because of damages from an accident or money owed. Civil litigation is confusing for lawyers. For non-lawyers...it is a nightmare. Most lawyers, unlike our office, fail to educate their clients about what to expect. For instance, there are 4 phases to a Civil Accident Lawsuit: Initially a lawyer attempts to settle the matter, but may have to file a Complaint called a Lawsuit. This is the Pleadings phase, where the victim explains in the complaint what the defendant did and how much they are demanding. The defendant often files an Answer or a Demurrer (where they claim there is not enough evidence to proceed). The Discovery phase is next, and is the most time intensive. This is where both sides share evidence. It could involve written questions called Interrogatories or Depositions, where there is testimony in front of a reporter. Discovery discloses facts, hopefully resulting in a settlement, dismissal or trial in front of an Arbitrator or Judge. At trial, the plaintiff’s lawyer presents facts, allowing the trier of fact (Jury, Judge or Arbitrator) to evaluate and give a ruling/verdict for them.

More sophisticated investors also look at the performance of their investments by category: (% of US Markets) Benchmark 4th Quarter 2018 January 2019 2008-2018 22% - Technology -17.6% 11.6% 17.0% 16% - Financials -15.2% 10.3% 9.6% 15% - Healthcare -16.3% 9.5% 15.1% 12% - Consumer Discretionary -15.4% 9.5% 14.9% 10% - Industrials -18.3% 11.0% 12.1% 7% - Consumer Staples -8.9% 5.9% 11.1% 5% - Energy -31.1% 15.0% 0.4% 4% - Real Estate -7.2% 10.6% 11.5% 3% - Utilities -1.5% 4.6% 9.8% 3% - Communications -8.7% 9.0% 9.9% 3% - Basic Materials -17.9% 10.0% 11.5%

LEGAL REPRESENTATION OF THE INJURED & CRIMINALLY ACCUSED

If the lawyer for the plaintiff can’t convince the judge or arbitrator that his/her client is entitled to money, then the case could be dismissed. Most cases are settled because trials, on a soft tissue accident case for instance, are so costly. Each side presents experts which are often doctors, who often bill up to $1000 per hour to prepare a medical report, driving to court and waiting to testify. One recently charged me $750 for 15 minutes of time over the phone. Unfortunately law is not an exact science and an expert can be scheduled to appear in court at 8 am and the court may be tied up from the day before and thus everyone waits. Sometimes this goes into the afternoon and sometimes the matter is put over to the next day or several days later. The lawyers on both sides are billed for this delay by their experts. The Post Trial Stage comes after the trial. On an auto accident case if there is no insurance or not enough insurance, the lawyer must try to then collect the judgement. The judge’s ruling is just his/her decision and not an order. Now the lawyer has to try to find assets. An investigator is hired to find assets so that the lawyer can levy on the assets of the other party. This judgement can be renewed every 10 years if they cannot initially find assets. Unfortunately, if the defendant files for bankruptcy, that will

wipe out the judgement and the plaintiff does not collect anything... nor does the lawyer for all his work...and advanced costs. If the defendant disagrees with the verdict he can hire an appellate lawyer to file an Appeal. An appellate lawyer is different from the initial lawyer and often forces both sides to hire appellate lawyers on an hourly basis. It is often said if you have to try a soft tissue accident case you have lost. This is because of the tremendous costs involved. In addition lawyers know that the best case can be lost and the worst case can be won. It is not just the lawyer but the luck of the draw with the jurors who may dislike one side or the other. I once won a case that should have been lost. I asked the jurors outside the courtroom, what convinced them that my client deserved to win? I got answers like

“The other lawyer’s nails were dirty; his belt was old and worn; his shoes were scuffed etc.” In other words, nothing to do with the case. Thus you can see why a trial is always a potential crap shoot. SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE ARTICLE? CONTACT DALE GRIBOW 760-837-7500/ dale@dalegribowlaw.com. DALE GRIBOW “TOP LAWYER” - Palm Springs Life-(PI) 2011-19 “TOP LAWYER”- Inland Empire Magazine 2016-19 PERFECT 10.0 AVVO Peer Rating Legal Columnist in LA & CV Papers/Guest Society Columnist Desert Sun / Talk Show Host “ACCIDENTALLY YOURS”

February 7 to February 13, 2019

TRAVEL

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

BY CRAIG MICHAELS

GREAT SHOWS AND GREAT SNOWS AT BIG BEAR MOUNTAIN RESORT

ne of the alluring qualities of the desert lifestyle is looking up at the snow-capped mountains through the palm trees, while laying poolside. For about $15 in gas or three coffees, you can go play in that snow at Big Bear Mountain Resort. Personally, I like taking the back way up Hwy 62 to Old Woman Springs Rd. toward Lucerne Valley then up Hwy 18 into Big Bear (less mountain driving, takes about 90 mins.) The resort Features two hills for twice as much fun, Bear Mountain (peak 8,805 feet) and Snow Summit (peak 8,200 feet) offering a wide variety of terrain for all levels. With our recent storms, boarders and skiers will be in heaven with almost two feet of fresh powder dumping over the past few weeks. Both mountains are in full operation with some of the top runs bosting a 52” base and a season total of almost 70” so far. Make sure you bring the kiddos for a lesson and check out the all-new Bear Mountain Adventure Academy building that opened earlier this season. Whether you want to extend your ski day, or simply enjoy the adventure of riding under the stars, night sessions happen very Friday and Saturday night from 3PM - 8:30PM through February at Snow Summit. In addition to the perfect snow conditions, there’s a few other reasons to make the trip up to Big Bear Mountain Resorts this February. The first of two concerts this month happens Saturday Feb. 9th at Bear Mountain. Join Power 106 (KPWR-FM) as they present the Power 106 Party on the Mountain, hosted by on-air personality Bryhana, featuring a performance

by Kid Ink. Admission is FREE for this all ages show (parental discretion advised.) Activities happen all day from 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM. If you miss that show, mark your calendar for Feb. 23 and get ready for KROQ Storms the Mountain. Back by popular demand, KROQ returns to Bear Mountain with a FREE show featuring DJ Jeremiah Red and a live performance by Badflower. Open to all ages the party goes from 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM. A valid 2018/19 season pass, or day-ticket is required for on-hill activities. Make sure you plan ahead and save 20% on lift tickets when you purchase in advance. Single and multi-day tickets do not include night tickets, but you can add on a night session ticket for a discounted rate for the date your day ticket is issued. For more information you can visit their web site: www. bigbearmountainresort.com or call (844) 4622327.

SPORTS SCENE

he Coachella Valley Youth Hockey Foundation, founded in March of last year, is a new local nonprofit organization that aims to provide resources to local hockey players and teams. “We are a group of moms… who got together to try and help fundraise to make iced hockey more accessible to young players in the desert,” says Katie Evans, president of the organization. “Hockey, unfortunately, is a really expensive sport and so we’ve had some families who have been unable to play or have been limited in their ability to have their child play and so we got together to try and make an effort so that more kids would have the opportunity.” The founders of the foundation saw a need in the community while attending their own children’s games and seeing that there was a lack of resources for players who couldn’t afford equipment. “All of us who are involved have kids who are playing hockey. There are organizations out there supporting other team sports, which are wonderful, but we focus in on hockey because we felt like there wasn’t anything there that fits with that sport… we could see firsthand... kids who come… and can’t go any further because.. it’s really expensive and it’s also really time consuming… there’s

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

February 7 to February 13, 2019

COACHELLA VALLEY YOUTH HOCKEY FOUNDATION a lot of travel involved, the gear is expensive. It was really just an effort to try and make it more accessible for families.” Evans says. The organization not only supports individuals in need of funds or gear, but they also support local teams that need resources to get to competitions or increase accessibility. “We support whatever need there is… we helped all three teams cover the cost of some of the travel tournaments they went to… we have the in-house program, so we just offered up a scholarship… in case there’s a kid out there who wants to try the learn to play program and they can’t afford it,” Evans explains. “We also have a gear store… people are donating used gear to us and then we’re selling it at a very reduced cost so then it’s easier for kids to get the gear that they need to be able to play... of course we also have a disclaimer on our website… if you still can’t afford to play, contact us and we’ll work with you to try to get you the gear that you need. And that effort serves two purposes; it is a little bit of a fundraiser for us because it helps us generate a little bit of money that we can use for scholarships and things like that, but also it helps kids who can’t afford gear.” The response from the community has been really positive for them. “We’re getting a lot of donations… people who played for years just have all this stuff in their garage and they were more than happy to hand it over to the foundation and happy to see other kids get to use it… we’ve been able to get a lot of kids geared up with it,” Evans says. In addition to that, local businesses are acting as sponsors and hosting fundraisers and Coachella Valley Youth Hockey Foundation is registered with both Amazon Smile and Ralphs Community Rewards.

Evans believe that playing hockey can have a positive impact on kids, saying “My son decided that he wanted to play hockey when he was five. He was extremely eager to get that started and from the minute he hit the ice he fell in love and never looked back. He’s ten this year and he’s obviously come a very long way from being such a little guy on the team but I think that the reason that… all of us came together to do what we did is because all four of us have kids who play hockey and… we really just want other people to be able to have that experience. Hockey, for my son, has been a great way to learn about discipline, learn about hard work, make new friends… it’s something we’ve done together as a

BY AVERY WOOD family… it’s really helped him grow as an individual.” For those who are interested in getting their kids involved in hockey, Desert Ice Castle hosts regular Pick Up Hockey sessions for $15. For more info about how to donate, receiving assistance, where to see a Desert Blaze or Palm Springs United Rams game, or to play hockey at Desert Ice Castle, visit: coachellavalleyyouthhockeyfoundation.org

DESERT RECREATION DISTRICT & THE CITY OF PALM DESERT ARE PROUD TO HOST

THE 19TH ANNUAL PALM DESERT SENIOR GAMES & INTERNATIONAL SPORTS FESTIVAL FEBRUARY 7 – 10, 2019

WHAT: Welcome Athletes Ceremony – 9 a.m., February 8th - Palm Desert Civic Center Park Tennis Court WHERE: Festival Headquarters – Palm Desert Community Center Games will take place at various venues in Palm Desert and surrounding communities ADMISSION: Games and Welcome Ceremony - Free to spectators INFO: MyRecreationDistrict.com or DesertSeniorGames.org or Call 760-568-2560 Schedule of Events: Thursday, February 7, 2019 8 a.m. Over 70, Men’s Soccer Palm Desert Soccer Park Friday, February 8, 2019 8 a.m. Pickleball – Men’s Doubles, Women’s OPEN Palm Desert Civic Center Park Tennis Courts 9 a.m. Welcome Athletes Ceremony Palm Desert Civic Center Park Tennis Courts 9 a.m. Golf – 9 Hole The First Golf Center at Palm Desert, home of The First Tee of the Coachella Valley 10 a.m. Table Tennis – Men’s & Women’s Singles Palm Desert Community Center

Saturday, February 9, 2019 8 a.m. Pickleball – Mixed Doubles Palm Desert Civic Center Park Tennis Courts 8 a.m. Women’s Volleyball College of the Desert 8 a.m. Women’s Volleyball Desert Sports Center 8 a.m. Men’s & Women’s Soccer Tournament Palm Desert Soccer Park 8 a.m. Men’s & Women’s Table Tennis Palm Desert Community Center 9 a.m. Race Walk Palm Desert High School Track 10 a.m. Track & Field Competition Palm Desert High School Track Sunday, February 10, 2019 8 a.m. Men’s Volleyball Tournament (35 to 49) College of the Desert 8 a.m. Men’s Volleyball Tournament (50 and Older) College of the Desert 8 a.m. Pickleball – Women’s Doubles, Men’s OPEN Palm Desert Civic Center Park Tennis Courts 8 a.m. Men’s & Women’s Soccer Tournament Palm Desert Soccer Park

February 7 to February 13, 2019

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

ASK THE DOCTOR

BY DR PETER KADILE

ADVICE SET IN STONE Kidney Stones Dr. Kadile, My dad has had kidney stones, does that mean I will get them? Will I get kidney stones if I don’t drink enough water? Kidney stones (renal lithiasis) are small masses that can form in the kidney. Depending on the size of the stones, they will typically leave the body in the urine stream. Symptoms can range from mild lower back pain to severe pain, nausea, vomiting, bloody and painful urination. Diagnosis is based on a patient’s clinical history, physical exam, urine analysis and imaging studies. Initial treatment may consist of pain medication and possibly other oral medications that will allow one to pass the stone. If unable to pass the stone, procedures such as shock wave therapy or surgery may be needed. Kidney stones can be hereditary. An individual may have a genetic predisposition to form stones. Other risk factors include; diets high in protein, sodium, or oxalate rich foods (dark green vegetables), obesity, certain medications, and history of frequent urinary tract infections. Dehydration is the most common cause of kidney stones, thus another very important reason to drink enough water. Thirst is a poor indicator of hydration status. A good way to monitor if you are well hydrated is by the color of your urine. Drink enough water to keep your urine clear to light yellow. Gallstones A patient of mine had developed severe indigestion and bloating last week. I initially thought he may have had a mild case of food poisoning but the symptoms persisted for a week until he had sudden, sharp and very painful abdominal pain. I got him a CT scan and it turns out he had gallstones. He needed antibiotics to treat the infection in his gallbladder and surgery to remove the gallbladder with the gallstones.

So what are gallstones and how does one get them? Gallstones are hardened forms of digestive fluid in your gallbladder. The gallbladder is a small pear shaped organ located on the right side of your abdomen just below the liver. Most gallstones are formed from cholesterol. Risk factors for developing gallstones are: - being female - age greater than 60 - obesity - poor diet, high in fat, high in cholesterol, low in fiber - family history - diabetes Gallstones can vary in size and may cause no symptoms, but if they get lodged in the duct leading out of the gallbladder, it may cause right sided upper abdominal discomfort to severe pain. Larger gallstones usually do not cause a problem because they are too large to fit into the gallbladder duct. It is the smaller stones that usually cause a problem. If the stone does not get dislodged and gets “stuck”, a severe infection can develop called cholecystitis or possibly an infection of the pancreas (pancreatitis). Treatment for symptomatic gallstones is usually surgery. Small gallstones may pass through the duct and into your small intestine, so it is possible to “pass” a gallstone with a bowel movement, but generally these stones don’t cause symptoms. Dietary modifications to help prevent gallstones: - Limit refined sugars - Vegetarian diet, particularly high in vegetable protein - High fiber diet - Caffeinated coffee may protect against the development of gallstones - Supplementation with vitamin C

AWAKEN W/LIZZY&AIMEE

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

BY ELIZABETH SCARCELLA & AIMEE MOSCO

WHY DOING WHAT YOU LOVE IS PRODUCTIVE FOR THE SOUL

ave you ever noticed how you feel when you are doing something you DON’T enjoy, like cleaning the toilet or picking up dog poop? Ugh. <Sigh> I would assert you are not feeling very happy and joyful. However, have you ever noticed how you feel when you ARE doing something you enjoy…like helping a friend or wrapping a gift? Ahhhh. <Smile> These two feelings are so opposite. One is confining and the other is free. One is trapped and the other is peaceful. The feelings, AKA energetic vibrations, you emit will determine how you and others will relate to your World. In addition, this emission also dictates how the Universe will deliver what you asked for. You are perpetually asking, you can’t help that part; it is automatic and never ending for as long as you are alive. It is our feelings that are sending out the message to the Universe. Therefore, it stands to reason, that if you are sending out bad mojo, you certainly can expect to receive the same in return. Fortunately, the opposite is true as well. Send out good vibes, then look forward to positive outcomes coming your way. This is why it is paramount that you find things that you ENJOY doing…and do them often. When you are experiencing a good time, you are naturally sending out good vibes. Essentially, you are asking the Universe to send you more circumstances, people, and feelings that match what you are emitting. We are meant to be happy. We are meant to feel free and peaceful. When we can tap into that Universal resource, Life becomes a lot less about efforting, and a lot more about creating. Creating and designing our life is what causes the Soul to expand and grow. Creating from

a high vibration is natural to being Human, therefore, we feel best in those times. Positive creation begets more creation and thus the expansion of our Soul. Cheers to more happy times and less crappy (pun intended) times in your future. If you enjoyed reading this, and are looking for more good juju, please join us in our Evolve Through Love community page. We host upbeat fun mixers each month with like-minded happy folks at Venus de Fido in Palm Desert, California. Connect with us at www.facebook.com/groups/ evolvethroughlove for more information and to join the conversation. Elizabeth Scarcella, Brand and Goodwill Ambassador, EFT Practitioner, Weight Loss and Inner Beauty Expert, is dedicated to helping others discover Wellness in all aspects of life. Elizabeth can help you awaken to your best self yet. For more information, find her at info@gogetyoung.tv Aimee Mosco is an Author, Intuitive Channel, Spiritual Teacher and Co-Founder of Intentional Healing Systems, LLC. Aimee’s passion for helping others inspired her book “Gratitude + Forgiveness x (LOVE) = Happiness”. For more information, find Aimee at aimee@ihsunity.com

February 7 to February 13, 2019

MIND,BODY & SPIRIT

BY BRONWYN ISON

OPEN YOUR HEART

ebruary is a celebratory month when it comes to love. We’re approaching Valentine’s Day. This holiday can bring one a lot of joy or some experience heartache and loneliness. Everywhere we look the red and pink decorations are plentiful. Instead of a sappy column about love and Valentine’s Day, I thought I’d share more about how you can love yourself and attract what you want and need in your life. Yes, I am suggesting you love yourself more than ever the entire month. If you can make a healthy habit of caring for yourself then you may be able to make this a regular healthy regimen. In my personal experience, I’ve recognized when I am in a healthy space, the law of attraction works wonders. Mentally, emotionally and physically I can attract what it is I need for my personal and professional life. If you have a chip on your shoulder or your verbalizing negativity it’s likely this is what you will attract. It’s perfectly normal to vent or express your concerns to a friend. However, be mindful to guard your thoughts and your tongue. Everyone experiences some sort of hurt, loss or pain in life. Consider re-evaluating those painful moments. It may be that you’ve stuffed them down long enough and you’re ready to embrace the pain and work through your junk. We’ve all got it. It may be time for you to breathe into the pain. I mean this literally. Breathing through our stresses can be very

healing. However, I also mean this figuratively. It may be time to re-open some wounds and deal with the pain. This can be a very healthy way to open your heart again if you’ve been closed off to others. Peeling back the layers of the onion isn’t pretty or sexy. Our initial response is to run the other direction. Remember, this may be what you’ve been doing for years. Embrace the discomfort and begin to let your heart open and heal. When you feel uncomfortable, lean into the pain. This is when the true healing begins. Ask your heart what it really wants. Rest, sit quietly and listen. You may hear nothing at first. It may take numerous attempts to meditate on this thought. You may not know what you want and this can be normal. As times progresses it may come to you in a still small voice. When and if it does… listen carefully and then engage it what you hear and feel is best for you. Spending time alone may be exactly what your heart needs. You may need to be solitude to conclude what’s best for you, in your life, at this present time. Being on your own will set you free of others influences. In the end, it’s your happiness that’s needs to be satisfied so that you may be your best for others. Bronwyn Ison is the owner of Evolve Yoga. Join her in-studio or online for ON DEMAND Yoga classes. She’s also the Founder of “Better For It Now.” A 7-Principle Program to include yoga and audio meditations.

February 7 to February 13, 2019

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

FREE WILL ASTROLOGY

Week of February 7

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Climbing mountains has been a popular adventure since the nineteenth century, but there are still many peaks around the world that no one has ever ascended. They include the 24,591-fot-high Muchu Chhish in Pakistan, 23,691-foot Karjiang South in Tibet, and 12,600-foot Sauyr Zhotasy on the border of China and Kazakhstan. If there are any Aries mountaineers reading this horoscope who have been dreaming about conquering an unclimbed peak, 2019 will be a great time to do it, and now would be a perfect moment to plan or launch your quest. As for the rest of you Aries, what’s your personal equivalent of reaching the top of an unclimbed peak? TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Eminem’s song “Lose Yourself” was a featured track in the movie 8 Mile, and it won an Academy Award for Best Original Song in 2003. The creator himself was not present at the Oscar ceremony to accept his award, however. He was so convinced his song would lose that he stayed home. At the moment that presenter Barbra Streisand announced Eminem’s triumph, he was asleep in front of the TV with his daughter, who was watching cartoons. In contrast to him, I hope you will be fully available and on the scene for the recognition or acknowledgment that should be coming your way sometime soon. GEMINI (May 21-June 20): While enjoying its leisure time, the peregrine falcon glides around at 50 miles per hour. But when it’s motivated by the desire to eat, it may swoop and dart at a velocity of 220 miles per hour. Amazing! In accordance with your astrological omens, Gemini, I propose that we make the peregrine falcon your spirit creature for the next three weeks. I suspect you will have extraordinary speed and agility and focus whenever you’re hunting for exactly what you want. So here’s a crucial question: what exactly do you want? CANCER (June 21-July 22): Now and then the sun shines and rain falls at the same time. The meteorological name for the phenomenon is “sunshower,” but folklore provides other terms. Hawaiians may call it “liquid sunshine” or “ghost rain.” Speakers of the Tangkhul language in India imagine it as “the wedding of a human and spirit.” Some Russians refer to it as “mushroom rain,” since it’s thought to encourage the growth of mushrooms. Whatever you might prefer to call it, Cancerian, I suspect that the foreseeable future will bring you delightful paradoxes in a similar vein. And in my opinion, that will be very lucky for you, since you’ll be in the right frame of mind and spirit to thrive amidst just such situations. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): A study by the Fidelity financial services company revealed that in 43% of all couples, neither partner has an accurate knowledge of how much money the other partner earns. Meanwhile, research by the National Institute of Health concludes that among heterosexual couples, 36 percent of husbands misperceive how frequently their wives have orgasms. I bring this to your attention in order to sharpen your focus on how crucial it is to communicate clearly with your closest allies. I mean, it’s rarely a good idea to be ignorant about what’s going on with those close to you, but it’ll be an especially bad idea during the next six weeks. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Torre Mayor is one of the tallest skyscrapers in Mexico City. When workers finished its construction in 2003, it was one of the world’s most earthquake-proof buildings, designed to hold steady during an 8.5-level temblor. Over the course of 2019, Virgo, I’d love to see you erect the metaphorical equivalent of that unshakable structure in your own life. The astrological omens suggest that doing so is quite possible. And the coming weeks will be an excellent time to launch that project or intensify your efforts to manifest it. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Multitalented Libran singer and actor Donald Glover uses the name of Childish Gambino when he performs his music. How did he select that alias? He used an online random name generator created by the rap group Wu-Tang Clan. I tried the same generator and got “Fearless

Warlock” as my new moniker. You might want to try it yourself, Libra. The coming weeks will be an excellent time to add layers to your identity and expand your persona and mutate your self-image. The generator is here: tinyurl.com/yournewname. (P.S.: If you don’t like the first one you’re offered, keep trying until you get one you like.) SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Leonardo da Vinci’s painting Salvator Mundi sold for $450 million in 2017. Just twelve years earlier, an art collector had bought it for $10,000. Why did its value increase so extravagantly? Because in 2005, no one was sure it was an authentic da Vinci painting. It was damaged and had been covered with other layers of paint that hid the original image. After extensive efforts at restoration, the truth about it emerged. I foresee the possibility of a comparable, if less dramatic, development in your life during the next ten months, Scorpio. Your work to rehabilitate or renovate an underestimated resource could bring big dividends. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): We can behold colors because of specialized cells in our eyes called cones. Most of us have three types of cones, but a few rare people have four. This enables them to see far more hues than the rest of us. Are you a tetrachromat, a person with super-vision? Whether you are or not, I suspect you will have extra powerful perceptual capacities in the coming weeks. According to my analysis of the astrological omens, you will be able to see more than you usually do. The world will seem brighter and deeper and more vivid. I urge you to deploy your temporary superpower to maximum advantage. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): There are two kinds of minor, boring little tasks. One is when you’re attending to a detail that’s not in service to a higher purpose; the other is when you’re attending to a detail that is a crucial step in the process of fulfilling an important goal. An example of the first might be when you try in vain to scour a permanent stain on a part of the kitchen counter that no one ever sees. An example of the second is when you download an update for an existing piece of software so your computer works better and you can raise your efficiency levels as you pursue a pet project. The coming weeks will be an excellent time to keep this distinction in mind as you focus on the minor, boring little tasks that are crucial steps in the process of eventually fulfilling an important goal. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Can you sit on your own head? Not many people can. It requires great flexibility. Before comedian Robin Williams was famous, he spontaneously did just that when he auditioned for the role of the extraterrestrial immigrant Mork, the hero of the TV sitcom Mork and Mindy. The casting director was impressed with Williams’ odd but amusing gesture, and hired him immediately. If you’re presented with an opportunity sometime soon, I encourage you to be inspired by the comedian’s ingenuity. What might you do to cinch your audition, to make a splashy first impression, to convince interested parties that you’re the right person? PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Twitter wit Notorious Debi Hope advises us, “Before you diagnose yourself with depression or low self-esteem, first make sure that you are not, in fact, just surrounded by assho--s.” That’s wise counsel for you to keep in mind during the next three weeks. Let me add a few corollaries. First, stave off any temptation you might have to believe that others know what’s good for you better than you do. Second, figure out what everyone thinks of you and aggressively liberate yourself from their opinions. Third, if anyone even hints at not giving you the respect you deserve, banish them for at least three weeks. Homework: What is the best gift you could give your best ally right now? Testify at FreeWillAstrology. com. ------------------------------------------------------------Rob Brezsny Free Will Astrology freewillastrology@freewillastrology.com

LIFE & CAREER COACH

BY SUNNY SIMON

SURVIVING A LIVE VIDEO INTERVIEW

y client Ally phoned the other day. Judging from the level of excitement in her voice, I could tell something positive was on the horizon. After exchanging pleasantries, she announced a recruiter scheduled a live video interview with the HR Manager of a company on Ally’s target list. She had never done a video interview before, admitted to being camera shy, and asked my advice. I could empathize with Ally, live video would not be my preferred method of introducing myself to a potential employer. Like it or not, it is used frequently by companies to connect individuals face-to-face without the hassle, or expense, of trying to get everyone in the same location at the same time. It also gives hiring managers a bird’s eye view of the candidate. How do you ace an interview when you cannot reach out, shake a hand and breathe the same air? Begin by leaving nothing to chance by doing a dress rehearsal. Schedule a mock interview with a friend. Set up in a quiet space. Create the appropriate lighting and ambiance. Note the background. Perhaps a bookshelf or a plant, nothing too eye-catching that draws attention away from you, the star of this show. Close down other programs on your computer. Receiving Facebook pings during

the interview would not be cool. Act like it’s an in-person interview, which means, dress the part and pay attention to hair and makeup. As in any formal interview, do your homework. Find out exactly who you are meeting with, their title (look them up on LinkedIn to find out more) and their relationship to the position. Block out your calendar for the allotted time. Spend time reviewing the job description against your resume and make a list of questions you would ask if the tables were turned. Questions like, why are you the ideal match for this position? If you are not asked that question, be sure to tell them why in your wrap-up. Do not start your answers with the word “so.” (That is my pet peeve.) It is so trite and unnecessary. Keep your notes neatly in front of you for a quick eye scan when needed. Remember to smile and be yourself. A little humor, where appropriate, is always welcome. Don’t be robotic, beside your intellect and experience your personality is on display. Show your enthusiasm for the position and the company. Ready? Take a deep breath. You can rock this. Sunny Simon is the owner of Raise the Bar High Life and Career Coaching. More about Sunny at www.raisethebarhigh.com.

Receive The Celebrity Secret Of Permanent Cosmetic Make-Up Once Thought To Be Only For The Rich And Famous Now Affordalbe To Women Of All Ages!!

eyebrows eyeliner lipliner Receive 10% full lip color beauty marks off with camouflage areola pigmentation this ad

760.341.6606

Call Now For A Complimentary consultation 72-880 Fred Waring Dr. A3, Palm Desert, CA 92260

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

February 7 to February 13, 2019

CANNABIS CORNER

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

BY MICHELLE ANN RIZZIO

CANNABINOIDS

oday’s article will be exploring cannabinoids found in cannabis and their uses. Cannabinoids are chemical compounds created by the cannabis flower which provides wellness benefits to many everyday issues such as pain, nausea, anxiety, and inflammation. Our bodies have an endocannabinoid system in which phytocannabinoids found in cannabis work with. By utilizing phytocannabinoids we are able to regulate our endocannabinoid system to create a sense of overall wellness and health. Anywhere there is a deficiency in the endocannabinoid system, phytocannabinoids from cannabis find their way to the receptors and can assist in solving the problem at hand. Phytocannabinoids bind to receptors found throughout our brain and major organs in our body’s endocannabinoid system. The receptors are called CB-1 and CB-2. We all are well acquainted with famous cannabinoids such as THC and CBD. But what about the other cannabinoids? There are 8 major cannabinoids produced by cannabis-CBGA, THCA (which breaks down to CBN), CBDA, CBCA, CBGVA, THCVA, CBDVA, and CBCVA. After decarboxylation (being exposed to heat) the previous cannabinoids become CBG, THC, CBD, CBC, CBGV, THCV, CBDV, and CBCV. While THC is the famous sibling of the cannabinoids with its notoriety being that it gets you high, other cannabinoids do not serve the similar function. While some cannabinoids are only stimulated by decarboxylation (being heated), others do not need heat to be utilized. In most cannabis strains THCA and CBDA are the most abundant cannabinoids found. Unfortunately THCA turns into THC when decarboxylated so wellness benefits associated with THCA such as inflammation and pain relief aren’t received through smoking. Instead, users can find the use of the cannabinoids through noncombustible

PUBLIC INVITED TO DISCOVER STATE-OF-THE-ART SHOWROOM, CURATED INVENTORY THIS MARCH

methods such as Papa and Barkley salves and tinctures or Mary Medicinals THCA or CBN patches. Another popular cannabinoid coveted for its weight loss due to being an appetite suppressant is THCV. THCV can also produce a slight psychoactivity but isn’t found often in popular strains and instead is in the very rare Durban Poison. Cannabinoids can indeed age as well. Have you ever hid a stash from yourself only to come back to it and find that it just so happens to put you straight to sleep regardless of the strain? That my friend is due to THCA being turned into CBN--a sedative cannabinoid! With time and exposure to oxygen this transition takes place. Not only is it sedative nature helpful for insomnia and other sleep related concerns, CBN can also be taken alongside THC to be anticonvulsant, antiinflammatory, and antibiotic! The scope of cannabinoid function and behavior is a very under researched aspect of the cannabis plant similarly to terpenes and dosage of this plant. As always it is important to remember that although in California and 32 other states it is regulated and a commodity, it is still federally illegal. This limits the amount of research that can be done on this plant. The FDA, National Institute of Drug Abuse, and DEA will not authorize claims made regarding cannabis, its cannabinoids, or its myriad of benefits. It is crucial that we continue to progressively move towards federal legalization and communicate with our local and state policymakers to make sure that our voices are heard regarding the future of cannabis in the US.

GROUNDBREAKING OF COACHELLA CANN PARK

WHO: Desert Rock Development WHAT: Groundbreaking of Coachella Cann Park WHEN: Thursday, February 7 from 12 to 2 p.m. WHERE: Northeast corner of Harrison and Avenue 48 in Coachella WHY: To inform and discuss details

THE LEAF EL PASEO OFFERS AN ELEVATED CANNABIS RETAIL EXPERIENCE

about the future home of Coachella Cann Park. The development, once all phases are completed, will be the valley’s first indoor cannabis cultivation, manufacturing and distribution facility totaling over 40 acres. For more information, please visit www.coachellacannpark.com

he Leaf El Paseo, an elevated cannabis boutique experience located in the heart of Palm Desert’s world-class retail, art and dining district, is expected to open its doors for business on Friday, March 1, the company announced. Designed for both the fully initiated and newly curious, the public is invited to discover its state-of-the-art showroom, friendly and knowledgeable staff, and curated inventory of superior cannabis products for medical, therapeutic and recreational use. “In today’s brave new world of cannabis retail, The Leaf is setting the standard by elevating the customer experience,” says Paul Cotterell, General Manager of The Leaf. “Our showroom exudes a relaxed, welcoming vibe, which allows for both privacy and peace of mind. It’s everything you’ve come to expect on El Paseo and more —The Leaf fits your lifestyle.” Highly trained cannabis consultants

will be on hand to answer questions, provide education and offer product recommendations. Customers will also have the opportunity to join The Leaf‘s Loyalty Program, which allows members to earn points toward future purchases, and get regular updates about upcoming promotions and products. The Leaf is located at 73740 El Paseo, between Larkspur and San Luis Rey. Daily hours will be 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Must be 21 or older to enter. For more information, visit www. leafelpaseo.com

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

February 7 to February 13, 2019