Coachella Valley Weekly - February 15 to February 21, 2018 Vol. 6 No. 48

coachellavalleyweekly.com • February 15 to February 21, 2018 Vol. 6 No. 48

Death In Pretty Wrapping

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Mega Sun

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Modernism

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Richard Kind

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The Craft

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February 15 to February 21, 2018

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Coachella Valley Weekly (760) 501-6228

publisher@coachellavalleyweekly.com coachellavalleyweekly.com facebook.com/cvweekly twitter.com/cvweekly1 Publisher & Editor Tracy Dietlin Art Director Robert Chance Sales Team Domingo Winstead, Elizabeth Westley Club Crawler Nightlife Editor Phil Lacombe Feature Writers Lisa Morgan, Rich Henrich, Heidi Simmons, Noe Gutierrez, Avery Wood, Tricia Witkower, Jason Hall, Steve Brown, Kristen Elaine, 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, Rebecca Pikus, Angela Romeo,Aaron Ramson, Elizabeth Scarcella, Jennifer Jank Photographers Robert Chance, Chris Miller, Esther Sanchez, Laura Hunt Little Website Editor Bobby Taffolla Distribution Phil Lacombe, William Westley

CONTENTS

Se7en4.................................................... 3 Death In Pretty Wrapping..................... 5 Mega Sun............................................... 5 Sunniva.................................................. 7 Modernism ............................................ 8 Richard Kind One Man Show................ 9 Brewtality.............................................. 9 Riverside County Date Festival.......... 10 Last Men In Aleppo............................ 10 CV Music Showcase - Round 3........... 11 Backstage Jazz - Frank Di Salvo........ 11 Consider This - The Choir.................... 12 Art Scene - Ulrike................................. 13 Pet Place............................................... 14 The Vino Voice ..................................... 15 Club Crawler Nightlife................... 16-17 Pampered Palate - The Craft............... 18 Screeners ............................................. 20 Book Review ....................................... 21 Safety Tips ............................................21 Haddon Libby...................................... 23 Dale Gribow......................................... 23 Good Grub - Dates ............................. 24 Sports Scene....................................... 25 Real Estate .......................................... 25 Cannabis Corner.................................. 26 Venus De Fido...................................... 26 Free Will Astrology.............................. 27 Mind, Body & Spirit............................. 27 Ask The Doctor.................................... 28 Life & Career Coach............................. 28 Cannabis Dispensary Directory........ 31

THE RETURN OF SE7EN4

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or anyone who knows Se7en4 and has been to one of their shows and followed their career, you know that they have built a reputation on being the original PD party boys with their legendary antics full of mayhem and debauchery. While it’s been over 17 years since the band started back in 2000, they still bring that raw, in your face, raucous, hard driving, unapologetic, punk rock shenanigans to every performance.

The band has never broken up, but has taken a few ‘breaks’ over the years and has also gone through many personal and personnel changes including the passing of guitar duties from original member Chris Cole, to current guitar player Pete Burquez, as well as going through a few bassists including original member John McCarthy, followed by Elexis “Eli” Becken, Armando Flores, and currently Trevino Martin.

This Friday, February 16, marks the return of Se7en4, as the band has not performed in the valley since September of 2016. Always being a band that can pack any venue they play, this is a show not to be missed. Not only will Nick ‘Nico’ Flores (frontman), ‘Pinche’ Pete Burquez (guitar), Trevino Martin (bass) and Steven Hall (drums) deliver a no holds barred performance, but they will also be joined by old friend and former bassist Eli Becken on a few songs. Becken (formerly of Phallus) moved to Texas a few years ago, but recently moved back and is excited to mix it up again with the guys.

Over the last 5 years, Se7en4 has been nominated for and won several CV Music Awards including: Best Frontman (Nick Flores), Best Drummer (Steven Hall), Best Punk Band and Best Album for Let’s Get High and Fight.

At one point all band members resided here in the CV, but currently only Flores lives here with Martin living in Santa Cruz and Hall and Burquez living in LA, making it more difficult to rehearse and work on new material. Hall has been doing his other musical endeavor, Drum Hall, for the last few years, with a warm reception by fans.

Martin and Burquez are working on a side project together as well. I caught up with the guys over the last week via several emails and phone calls to find out where the band currently stands.

CVW: Why has it taken so long to do another show? And what made you guys come out of hibernation now for this show?

Nico: “Distractions and short attention spans is all. What brought us back? Steve and I are single again, Pete and Trevino haven’t been deported, plus we’re all still very good looking so....”

Steve: “We’re still breathing.”

CVW: The valley has been Se7en4’s home base. With all of you now living out of town except Nick how has that changed the dynamic of the band?

Nico: “It’s kind of been like that for long time now, quite a long time… so nothing really has changed.”

CVW: You also all have some side projects going on. Can you each share about those?

Nico: “I think you mean side ho’s and no we can’t talk about those.”

CVW: What have been your most memorable performances as a band?

Nico: “Playing right before Prong at a sold out Whiskey a Go Go show in Hollywood was pretty fucking rad. Also, HELMET and SNOT were great bands to share the stage with.”

CVW: How does it feel to still have such a strong fan base even though you don’t play a lot of shows anymore?

Nico: “Feels fucking GREAT! Pete: “I personally want to thank everybody that has come out and supported Se7en4 throughout the years. You guys rule!!!”

CVW: How do you feel the music scene in the valley differs from the one in LA? Nico: “Both are great. LA is LA, it’s always fun and they LOVE the desert.”

Pete: “There are more venues to play in LA than the desert is what differs from the valley.”

Steve: “LA is more business where the valley is more laid back. I love them both equally.”

February 15 to February 21, 2018

BY TRACY DIETLIN

CVW: How do you feel the scene here in the CV has changed since when you first started the band?

Nico: “I love it! There are more venues for artists than ever before and all these super talented musicians are popping up out of nowhere, but really they’ve been here this whole time.”

Steve: “There are more venues and more rock bands and that right there is fucking awesome!”

CVW: What can fans expect from the show on Feb. 16? Any new tricks up your sleeve?

Nico: “First off, we are playing with some bad ass fucking bands. Death in Pretty Wrapping, Mega Sun and Sleazy Cortez, so right off the bat it’s gonna be a sick fucking show! From Se7en4 you can expect an explosive in your face set of melody and aggression with lots of energy from everyone in the band.”

Steve: “Same old show, hard fast and loud... been kind of missing the desert lately.”

CVW: Anything else anyone wants to share?

Nico: “Just a picture of my dog.”

Steve: “My drugs.”

Pete: “I’m doing this show for all the great friends and Se7en4 fans we’ve made along the way.”

Se7en4 will be joined by Death in Pretty Wrapping, Mega Sun and Sleazy Cortez, who are replacing The DTease, who were originally scheduled to perform, but had to cancel due to the death of the lead singer’s father. We extend our condolences and look forward to bringing them to the desert in the near future.

Show is 21 & over and a $5.00 cover charge. Support Local Music!

Photo By Steven Young Photography 2016

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February 15 to February 21, 2018

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DEATH IN PRETTY WRAPPING

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EATH IN PRETTY WRAPPING return to The Hood Bar and Pizza stage on Friday, February 16, 2018 to perform live along with SE7EN4, MEGA SUN and SLEAZY CORTEZ Doors open at 9 p.m. and the show is presented by Coachella Valley Weekly and will be hosted by ‘The Moderator of Metal,’ Phil Lacombe. Entry fee is $5.00. I caught up with Michael Keeth (vocals), Arthur Seay (guitars) and Derek Wade Timmons (bass) to check in on DiPW. MICHAEL KEETH CVW: What’s the most exciting part of being the lead vocalist for DiPW? KEETH: “I love the camaraderie of being in a band, especially with such talented musicians as these guys. Cancino, Seay, and I go back pretty far now. We’ve had some ups and downs and become stronger friends and bandmates because of it. Timmons is a great bassist and a truly good human being. We have a band/brothers scenario that is rare, and I’m thankful for it.

And performance-wise we all feed off of each other’s stage energy, so every show is exciting.”

CVW: I’ve seen and heard you perform in acoustic settings and in fully-plugged situations. Your range is broad. Are you ever surprised by your vocal abilities once you hit the mic fronting DIPW? KEETH: “I’m always pushing to be stronger vocally. I love the nuance of acoustic performances. But DiPW pushes me to hit higher, longer, stronger notes; and also to fully embody the emotions of the lyrics with the high energy physical performance. It’s freeing to be able to lose myself against the wall of sound that these guys make.”

CVW: You have created a career from your music and are the prototype for many local musicians. What is the most pertinent piece of information a musician must consider prior to ‘jumping’?

KEETH: “Make it your own. Don’t compare yourself to other artists’ success or style. Own what you do, put your heart and effort into it, and you’ll find your audience.”

CVW: What hard/heavy rock music do you listen to when it’s time to bang your head?

KEETH: “I own every SEVENDUST record after Animosity. I love them! And too many others to list. I like some pretty heavy stuff,

MEGA SUN A

s power trios go, MEGA SUN is in its early stages. Having wowed the audience and judges at The Hood Bar and Pizza for the Coachella Valley Weekly CV Music Showcase in early January 2018, the desert rock band had only been together a few months. After watching and listening to some of their live footage, it’s apparent their superiority will only be limited by their vision. With Jeremy Parsons on vocals and bass guitar, Chris Rivera on guitar and Tyler Ontiveros on drums, MEGA SUN have just begun to shine on the heavy rock world. I had the chance to communicate with the band in anticipation of their biggest show to date with DEATH IN PRETTY WRAPPING, SE7EN4 and SLEAZY CORTEZ on Friday, February 16, 2018 at the Hood Bar and Pizza. Entry fee is $5.00. Show

but it has to have melodic elements for me to really get into it.”

CVW: You have many roles you fill and I know the kind of father and husband you are is a priority for you. What would you like to say about your family as they continue to be your inspiration?

KEETH: “They are my world. My wife Jodi is my rock and best friend. She makes me whole.

My kids are little rockstars; kind, smart and funny. I want to be the best example I can be for them.”

CVW: DiPW rock very hard and I can imagine that it has to be reigned in from time to time. If you were required to have a “safe” word for Arthur, Mike & Derek, what would that safe word be?

KEETH: “Greazy bacons or maybe the safe word should be Judi Dench?”

ARTHUR SEAY CVW: What’s the most exciting part of being the guitarist for DiPW? SEAY: “I really enjoy playing with these fine gentlemen live on stage and am looking forward to writing and recording new material and all of that is very exciting!”

CVW: You are one of the best guitarists in the rock world. If you could bottle your drive what would be the main ingredient?

SEAY: “I don’t know about that but thank you for your kinds words. I definitely work very hard at what I do. Main ingredient?

Perseverance! Endeavor to Persevere!”

CVW: You have created a career from the music world. What else is there for you to conquer?

SEAY: “I directed and shot a lot of the new HOUSE OF BROKEN PROMISES video for the

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song “Toranado” which will be posted on our YouTube Channel next week. I am diving more into shooting, directing and editing video.

I have a 20 minute short horror film I›ll be shooting at some point but my main focus is still music and getting shit done!”

CVW: Favorite hard/heavy rock music?

SEAY: “Lately, none… lol. All the classic stuff like Sabbath and Scorpions, but mostly I listen to a lot of Motown, Beatles and Tom Jones. He collaborated with pretty much everyone back in the day and it’s all sick!”

CVW: You have a quiet & sensitive side to you. What would surprise your fans the most about you?

SEAY: “My acute case of social anxiety!

And yes, I’m a teddy bear inside, but if you piss me off you get the grizzly! My two little doggies keep me sane; Flop and Pork Chop... lol. I would have some sort of big ass dog (someday) but I have two little ‘cutie poos’ that keep daddy happy with snuggles.”

CVW: DiPW safe word?

SEAY: “Figure it the fuck out!”

DEREK WADE TIMMONS CVW: What’s the most exciting part of being the bassist for DiPW? TIMMONS: “Badass riffs! Playing in a band with people whose albums I was buying before I ever knew them is a trip too. Challenging myself to play with some talented dudes!”

CVW: You’re one of the best musicians in the desert. What is your approach to the music and performing with DiPW? TIMMONS: “Hardly! Muchas gracias, though. I am fortunate to play in bands where the bass has a large role, so I just try to be that wave in the middle of the music and keep it

interesting. Eddie Plascencia’s bass lines are a ton of fun. It’s great to be able to step away from the microphone and focus solely on bass too. Keep it solid, keep it energetic and keep it fun!”

CVW: What is the most pertinent piece of information a musician must consider prior to pursuing becoming a member of a band?

TIMMONS: “Can I contribute something worthwhile? Can I learn from this? Can we all stand in a small room and practice the transition into the third verse of that one song twenty times without wanting to choke each other?”

CVW: Favorite hard/heavy rock music?

TIMMONS: “Hmmm new to old, to name a very few; THE SWORD, BARONESS, CLUTCH, a ton of local stuff, THE ATOMIC BITCHWAX, MONSTER MAGNET, WHITE ZOMBIE, PRIMUS, BLACK SABBATH, ZZ TOP, GRAND FUNK RAILROAD and a million others!”

CVW: You’ve held different roles in several bands. Describe your experiences thus far in one paragraph.

TIMMONS: “Well, it took some years to get myself into bands where the bass has a large role like I like. I get bored holding down the bottom under multiple guitars, call me selfish! Playing classical music in college on an upright is something I now miss. Learning covers makes you better. Writing your own music makes you better. Being a vocalist while being a bassist is harder than I initially anticipated, and absolutely worth it. Writing my own music has made me the laziest and slowest guy ever when it comes to learning other people’s riffs. I need to practice more!”

CVW: DIPW safe word?

TIMMONS: “Rhubarb… No, wait… Kitty cat… Nah, rhubarb.“ DiPW is soulful and sexy heavy rock that has been in the works for the last 16 years.

Mike Cancino, Keeth, Seay and Timmons are phenomenal at their respective crafts and we are privileged that they call the Coachella Valley their home. Take the time, make the effort and shell out the $5 to be a part of the scene; because…YOU ARE THE SCENE!

BY NOE GUTIERREZ starts at 9:00. 21 & over.

CVW: How did MEGA SUN initially connect?

Ontiveros: “Chris, who comes from a musically inclined lineage, being related to the Evaro family, reached out to me mentioning a new project was underway. He and Jeremy, formerly of WHISKEY & KNIVES, were looking for a drummer and I heeded the call. I was more than stoked to get back in the local music scene after a long hiatus due to breaking my right leg and my former bands DROP THE WORLD and ONE SHOT THRILL either breaking up or going through line-up changes, but those hurdles would not keep me away from doing what I love.

After a couple jam sessions with these talented dudes, I was hooked and pumped on what we could become.” continue to page 6

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February 15 to February 21, 2018

MEGA SUN continued from page 5

Rivera: “I found Jeremy on bandmix.com. He conveniently lived two streets away. We quickly learned we clicked musically and soon found ourselves on the hunt for a drummer. Tyler’s name was given to us by two different people so we contacted him through Facebook. From the moment I heard him I knew he was the guy.”

Parsons: “Chris and I started playing and just trying to come up with some ideas of a more aggressive appreciation for the sounds we grew up with here in the desert. Trying to mimic and make it sound modern with the grit of the new horizon of what the desert has to offer.

Immediately after agreeing that we were going to do this, we started looking for musicians.

In that process we left Chris to man the guitar responsibilities and I would venture on to an unknown territory playing bass guitar. We always assumed that I would be the vocalist of the band but not ever setting it in stone and that the idea of the band and any players are welcome. A very minimal time went by and we were introduced to Tyler and had our first jam. After a brief 30 minute introduction to what MEGA SUN would potentially be, it ended as fast as it started, with police in full riot/SWAT gear at my front door. It was at that moment that I knew that we were being heard.”

CVW: Describe the MEGA SUN sound?

Ontiveros: “MEGA SUN is a hard-hitting, in-your-face, three-piece rock band from Palm Desert and La Quinta, California with a sound that was influenced by former bands, local

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www.coachellavalleyweekly.com musicians and of course, some of our favorites.

You could say that there’s that familiar “desert rock” vibe in there but we don’t want to limit ourselves as we are only just getting started.”

Rivera: “I grew up here in the desert. Some of my fondest memories are from the generator parties. UNSOUND, ACROSS THE RIVER, and SORT OF QUARTET are just a few bands I grew up listening to. I think we’re trying to keep the desert vibe alive and still do our own thing. I think we are just scraping the surface of our sound. We’ve only been together seven months and this will be our 4th show so we are really still finding our way. There is definitely chemistry in our song writing.”

Parsons: “Right now it’s very much on the side of aggression and boil your blood. It’s a tall order to do this show after show. But us being new, we need to test our limits and physically push ourselves.”

CVW: What’s on the horizon for MEGA SUN? Ontiveros: “MEGA SUN was fortunate enough to have some very promising doors open just after playing our third show. We are extremely excited for what’s to come but don’t want to let the cat out of the bag quite yet.

We have a great show coming up at The Hood with a killer line-up. Since our last appearance at Round 2 of the CV Weekly Music Showcase, we have come up with a couple news songs that we are looking forward to performing for everyone. They definitely show the direction we are headed.”

Rivera: “Our focus is to continue playing shows and keep writing new music. We are also looking forward to recording our demo.”

Parsons: “We have the normal get established band check list. Get a recording completed and schedule shows. The 16th at The Hood is our next big thing. Let›s see what the future holds.”

CVW: How can music fans access MEGA SUN music?

Ontiveros: “For now, you will just have to come out to a show to see and hear what we’re all about. Recording is in the near future. We promise you this.”

Rivera: “Until we record and release our demo you can follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay up on our shows.”

CVW: What are your thoughts on the 2/16 show?

Ontiveros: “I think I can speak for the whole band when I say, we couldn’t have been more stoked to be asked to play this show. It’s a killer line-up and sure to be a packed house. We gladly accepted the opportunity to share the stage with local favorites SE7EN4, DEATH IN PRETTY WRAPPING and SLEAZY CORTEZ. You don’t want to be in your chonies on the couch for this one.”

Rivera: “I’m excited. It’s the biggest show we will have played thus far. We’re really grateful for the opportunity. Can’t wait to share the stage with some great bands!”

Parsons: “We are very humbled to be invited to play. We’re all very excited and can’t express how much we appreciate the opportunity. We

are in debt to everyone involved.”

CVW: MEGA SUN banged some heads and opened some ears at the CV Music Showcase.

Describe that feeling & how you plan to stay in the foreground.

Ontiveros: “For me, it was our first real chance to play for a crowd that really wanted to listen. It was a little nerve-racking knowing that we had industry professionals right in front of us watching our every move; definitely a different experience than being able to have the crowd in front of you to feed off of. Overall we had a great time that night and can say that we were truly taken aback by the response we received not only from the judges’ critique but from the crowd as well. We are grateful to have been a part of this awesome local showcase. We appreciate all the support thus far and have every intention of keeping up this momentum.”

Rivera: “It felt really good to get such a positive reaction. We realize we have a lot of work to do but we are excited to see where this goes.”

Parsons: “It was for sure an intimidating situation having the judges seated four feet away and the second we hit our first chord, they all reached for their ears. It felt like we were definitely way louder than the bands that performed prior to us, so when they handed out their critiques we were all pleasantly surprised.”

Don’t miss MEGA SUN on Friday, February 16, 2018 at The Hood Bar and Pizza with DEATH IN PRETTY WRAPPING, SE7EN4 and SLEAZY CORTEZ Cover charge is $5.00.

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SUNNIVA: GIFT OF THE SUN

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he great news about the desert is 350 days a year of sun! There are not many places in the world with that much sunlight,” said Duncan Gordon, Chief Operations Officer, Sunniva Medical, Inc. “Greenhouse technology uses the power of the sun with dramatically less energy consumption than an ordinary inside grow.”

Sunniva means “gift of the sun” and the Canadian based medical cannabis company is nearing completion on a 325,000 square foot grow facility on Ramon Road, east of Date Palm Drive in Cathedral City.

“We are in the high-quality, low-coast medical grade cannabis cultivation business,” said Gordon. “Our primary focus is medical, and we will service the recreational market as well.”

It’s 90 degrees on the Sunniva construction site in February. The tall, still skeletal, steel and glass structure glistens in the profuse mid-day light. Its glass canopy spreads across the lot like an accordion stretched tight. The sunshine is defused on the cement pad below, just waiting to entice seedlings to grow and bloom.

The heat is already intense.

IN POUNDS “You can see by the size of the structure, this is not a traditional greenhouse,” said Gordon.

“We’ve done a lot of work around controlling heat. It’s one of our biggest challenges. The upside is the desert is very low in humidity, which is harder to extract than heat when operating a greenhouse.”

When the structure is completed, Sunniva will support eight cultivation zones and a service house, which will support the administration and technology of the facility such as climate control, fertilizer tank systems, the offices and a dispensary.

Fully operational, the Sunniva campus expects to produce 264,554 pounds (120,000kg) of premium medical cannabis annually. That’s 22,046 pounds (10,000kg) per month!

Gordon anticipates the grow facility to be operational by summer -- mid-June or July.

Sunniva intends to hold a job fair to fill nearly 200 positions!

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY “I want to be clear on this, you do not have to have cultivation experience,” said Gordon.

“The vast majority of new employees for this facility, 80 percent, will be trained. We are looking across all industries for the expertise we need like cultivation managers and agriculture people. But most of the positions are skilled or semiskilled, which we can train for.”

Sunniva will hire full-time employees, provide full benefits and profit sharing.

Recruitment is still a few months out, and a job fair will be held in Cathedral City.

“The city asked us to provide opportunity for the residents, and that’s our priority,” said Gordon. “We will start with locals and expand our search if we haven’t filled all the needed positions. From our perspective, if we can recruit from the community, that’s first prize.

I think it’s very important” Sunniva’s first phase requires 120 hires and 63 positions in its second phase.

“I fundamentally believe the people inside the organization really make a difference,”

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said Gordon. “That’s important because, we can now have fulltime employees who align to the culture of the organization.”

LEVEL LOADED Significant to the facility is a method Gordon calls “Sunniva’s lean cultivation methodology.”

“We are going to use ‘level loaded production,’ which is used in ‘lean manufacturing’ around the world,” said Gordon. “We want to apply those methods and principals to the cultivation of cannabis.

We are very proud of it.”

A key component for Sunniva is managing cannabis strains to flower in eight weeks.

Sunniva’s greenhouse facility has eight flowering zones, or bays, where the plants grow from about a foot high to flowering.

Cannabis is a fast-growing crop and most strains produce flower (bud) in eight to 10 weeks.

Under level loading principals, Sunniva is targeting for flower in an eight-week cycle.

“Fundamental to the design of our facility, we can cultivate and harvest eight zones,” said Gordon. “Which means consistency of product supply to our customers, and consistency of inbound supplies from our suppliers in terms of rock wool, fertilizer, etcetera. Steady level loading keeps supply without massive spikes, without activity falling off, or stopping without anything to do.”

Gordon expects it will take three months to populate each zone with cuttings, and the zones to flower. In the 13th month, all zones will be at capacity and Sunniva will be able to start harvesting and planting consistently without a break in production.

“With level loaded production, we can employee full-time, well-paying jobs and we can apply serious training for our employees,” said Gordon. “That’s important because, now we have full-time employees who have a buyin to the culture of the organization.”

“With level supply going out, and level supply coming in, we won’t need to be hiring temporary staff and then letting them go. We can retain our employees, and I firmly believe if we give to our employees, they will give back.”

VERTICALLY INTEGRATED “We are working through the entire supply chain of cannabis,” said Gordon. “From cultivation all the way through extraction and distribution. Lean manufacturing says do all your ‘value added’ chain processes in the same location if you can. Don’t break them up geographically. You reduce waste and you add more value to the product. Its more efficient.”

Sunniva Medical Inc.’s emphasis is on cultivation, production and distribution. Its wholly owned subsidiaries include: CP Logistics,

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CANNABIS CORNER

LLC, Natural Health Services Ltd., and Full-Scale Distributors, LLC. These organizations together allow Sunniva to better control and distribute their product.

Due to zoning restriction, Sunniva has an extraction facility on Perez Road in Cathedral City.

“It would be better to have the extraction at this location, but for now, it’s just blocks away,” said Gordon.

WHITE LABELING Sunniva intends to produce cannabis on a scale where it can manufacture and market “white label” product. A “white label” product is produced by one company for rebranding by another company as its own product.

“You can think of it like the shelves at Walmart,” said Gordon. “Walmart sells name brands right next to their own brand. We will produce cannabis with our genetics, high-quality, low-cost standards, and make it available for someone else’s brand.” cGMP Sunniva will use no pesticides and will run the facility at food grade standards of production.

“We have a California company called ‘Focus’ and we are using their standards for compliance cGMP (current Good Manufacture Practices),” said Gordon. “They are one of the few organizations that is taking cGMP standards and applying it to the cannabis industry.”

Sunniva welcomes the standards that are coming out in the State of California.

“Our opinion is they are long over-due. We are quite prepared to compete with everybody else on a level playing field. We would love to see the entire industry having to comply to the exact same quality standards.”

“If growers are using pesticides, what about the rights of the consumer? From our perspective, it’s very important that we produce good quality product at a reasonable price that does not negatively affect the immune system of medical patients. At the end of the day, what’s fundamentally significant to me is: pesticide free, high-quality, medicalgrade cannabis at an affordable cost.”

Sunniva has created quality controls to ensure their product maintains high standards.

Third party testing is a State requirement.

Sunniva has a two-vault process to protect product from contaminants between testing and being shipped to customers.

THE MOTHER LOAD Sunniva will grow its cannabis in rock wool – a construction material commonly used as installation in homes -- rather than soil.

“The reason we use rock wool is because it prevents contaminants from coming in.

Soil potentially has a much higher risk of contamination. Rock wool is a safe product actively used throughout the agricultural business.”

At this very moment, Sunniva is cultivating cannabis strains at a facility in Oakland, and will be bringing those “mother” plants to clone and transplant in the Cathedral City greenhouse.

“We are using a number of different strains,” said Gordon. “The strains are not static. They evolve and change over time. As the market conditions change, we will adapt and change our strains. We will typically cycle our ‘mothers’ out every nine months.

Sometimes even quicker than that if they are not producing what we want. Cannabis is a living organism. We will continue to replace and refine our strains over time, until we are satisfied that we have strains that are meeting the market need.”

CORPORATE PHARM Sunniva is targeting two of the largest cannabis markets in the world—Canada and California. When phase two is completed, Sunniva may be one of the largest cultivation and production facilities in the State.

Medicinal marijuana has been legal in Canada since 2001. Recreational, or adult use consumption (18 years and older in Canada), will become legal July 2018.

However, it remains illegal to transport marijuana across federal or state borders. The Cathedral City facility will only serve California.

Sunniva is building a facility in Canada twice the size of its desert location. Gordon does not argue that Sunniva is not a pharmaceutical company. The state set a moratorium on large corporate growing facilities, so Sunniva is partnering with smaller cultivators to fill the facilities’ grow zones.

“Sunniva’s a production campus,” said Gordon. “We have one zone and we are going to have tenants in the other seven zones.

The advantages are we can bring in small to medium size business partners based across California that will be tenants in this building.”

“What that means is we can provide tenants with the necessary high-level, worldclass infrastructure. Alone, they cannot afford the infrastructure. By putting these seven tenants under one roof, in combination with ourselves, now we can attract serious capital to put in high-end technology to compete on a global scale.”

Currently, cannabis grown in California cannot be shipped out-of-state.

“For us, the important thing is being able to compete on a fair market basis, but at the end of the day, it is such an opportunity to use high-end, real top-scale agriculture technology and apply it to cannabis. It’s a fantastic opportunity. It’s a game-changer.”

Sunniva is incorporating sophisticated agricultural, manufacturing and marketing techniques to the exploding cannabis industry.

It also considers itself to be a member of the community. Last week, Sunniva sponsored “Jalisco Days” in downtown Cathedral City.

“We’re proud of this facility and we want the city to be proud of it as well,” said Gordon.

“The technology is very important, but it’s how you use technology. In the long run, it comes down to people. I’m a firm believer, people make a difference.”

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February 15 to February 21, 2018

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MODERNISM WEEK: FEBRUARY 15-25

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odernism Week starts February 15, and while some events are already sold out, many events still have tickets available. These include home tours, neighborhood tours, films, talks, parties and more. Available events are easily located on the Modernism Week website (modernsimweek.com) by choosing the option “Tickets Still Available” from the dropdown menu. Modernism Week’s signature 11-day festival will take place February 15-25, 2018. Some highlighted events that still have availability include: Showcase Home and Featured Home tours Modernism Week Showcase Home Moroccan Modern (Various dates and tour times); $40 Modernism Week’s first Showcase Home

by Thomboy Properties is a custom-built home from 1975 by architect Hal Lacy recently renovated to modern luxury.

Modernism Week Featured Home Maison a l’Orange (Various dates and tour times); $30 An exclusive tour of this featured private home in South Palm Springs designed by H3K Design, featuring walls of glass, a soaring roof line, and a Googie-inspired lounge.

Modernism Week Featured Home Hidden Frey (Various dates and tour times); $30 A rare opportunity to tour a 1966 tennis estate designed by renowned Palm Springs architect Albert Frey, newly restored by Thomboy Properties, and relatively unknown because it is truly hidden from view.

Neighborhood Tours Sunrise Lanai: The Miracle in the Desert (first time on tour) February 23 (various tour times); $50 Sunrise Lanai is a cross between a Polynesian Tiki hut and a Swiss chalet. Open for the first time during Modernism Week 2018, the crazy-but-cute condos are a mustsee for fans of whimsical midcentury design.

Da Vaal Estates home tour puts the X in Extraordinary (first time on tour) February 24, 2018 (various tour times); $50 Tour several extraordinary homes with cutaway, sharply angled roofs, large overhangs, and triangular chimneystacks of stacked blocks. Many homes have original features and have been wonderfully restored.

Sunmor Estates Midcentury Home Tour February 24 (various tour times); |$65 Step back in time to a remarkably intact collection of midcentury modern homes constructed in the late ’50s and early ‘60s.

Several home interiors and landscapes will be featured on this walking tour.

Other Tours Premier Double Decker Architectural Bus Tour (Various dates and tour times); $95

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Modernism Week’s signature bus tour is a 2.5 hour overview of the exteriors of significant civic, commercial and residential properties in notable Palm Springs neighborhoods.

House of Grace: Exclusive Home Tour & Afternoon Cocktails February 18, 1 pm; $50 This exclusive gathering in an extraordinary award winning “modern villa” features Michael Ostrow of Grace Home Furnishings, Traditional Home Editor in Chief Jill Waage and homeowner Kurt Serrano, Senior Vice President of People at Pinterest, who will discuss the role of Pinterest and the designer/ client collaboration process. Champagne, fresh cocktails and light bites from savory to sweet will be served.

Midday at the Oasis: Marrakesh Modernism Week Event February 22 and 23 (various tour times); $125 Rarely open to the outside world, the Hollywood Regency style Marrakesh Country Club has long been Palm Desert’s best-kept secret. The 364 “little pink palaces” set among lush greenery truly are the Jewel of the Desert.

Sacred Places Self Driving Tour of Midcentury Churches February 24, (various tour times); $40 A tour of the sacred side of midcentury architecture in the Palm Springs area on a self-guided tour of at least 7 places of worship from the 50’s, 60’s and early 70’s.

Educational Talks A distinguished array of speakers – all leaders in their fields – will share their knowledge and insights with Modernism Week audiences each day of the event. Tickets range from $10 – $45 for talks and panels Locations for the talks are at the Annenberg Theater, Camelot or at the theater that adjoins the main CAMP space.

Modernism Week Keynote: Martyn Lawrence Bullard and Palm Springs: A Modernist Paradise February 17, 2018 3 pm, $20 - $90 Palm Springs’ best known designer of this century, Martyn Lawrence Bullard, will share what it is like to design homes for his

celebrity clientele and how he is inspired by Palm Springs.

Tour & Talk at Home with Designer Michael Berman February 18, 5 pm; $75 “Modern Wonder: Enduring Legacy of Midcentury Design” unites Traditional Home Editor in Chief Jill Waage and designer Michael Berman who will explore the themes of midcentury design that have withstood the test of time and influenced generations of designers.

Film Screenings Modernism Week has partnered with the American Documentary Film Festival (AmDocs) to create a new Architecture and Design Film Series to be offered for the first time during Modernism Week. The inaugural Architecture and Design Film Series will be held over three days from February 23-25 on the big screen at the Camelot Theater. It will feature 26 films, documentaries and short films. Highlights include: Frey: Part 1-The Architectural Envoy February 23, 9:30; $20 Just released, this is the first film of a forthcoming 2 part series that explores Albert Frey’s early life and work in Europe to his New York architectural accomplishments in the 1930’s. It contains never-before published archival imagery, as well as breathtaking architectural footage.

Columbus February 23, 6 pm; $15-$25 The son of a renowned architecture scholar finds himself stranded in Columbus, Indiana – a small Midwestern city celebrated for its many significant modernist buildings.

Sinatra In Palm Springs – A Place He Called Home February 25, 9:30 am; $20 This film explores Frank Sinatra’s deep attachment to Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley, his primary home for almost 50 years.

Entertainment Events Hollywood Revisited: A Glamorous Musical Theater Extravaganza February 22, 6 pm; $50 - $65 The great Hollywood films of the 1940s to the 60s will be showcased by acclaimed vocalists singing and dancing to movie-related music while wearing the original costumes.

Modernism Fashion Show - ‘Spanning the Decades’ February 18, 1 pm; $45 Step back in time to “Span the Decades” through fashion as Mitchells Palm Springs collaborates with M Vintage to present “Haute Couture” at its best.

Parties Moroccan Modern Cocktail Party February 17, 7 pm; $100 Join the designers, architects and tastemakers involved in Modernism Week for

MODERNISM

an exclusive party featuring abundant gourmet hors d’oeuvres and specialty cocktails at the only opportunity to see and experience the Modernism Week Showcase Home at night.

La Fiesta Moderna - Palm Springs Modern Committee Annual Gala Benefit February 17, 8 pm; $175 A 1970’s Spanish-inspired fiesta with a Palm Springs twist in the amazing Rubenstein Estate, the last commission designed by renowned architect William F. Cody. The house is literally a time capsule, unaltered since the doors first opened in 1971.

Cocktails at Canyon Country Club: A Tribute to Donald Wexler February 21, 4 pm; $125 This tribute to Donald Wexler demonstrates how one of Palm Springs’ most influential midcentury modern architects has enhanced our community immeasurably. The event includes cocktails and hors d’oeuvres and a discussion about the impact and legacy of Donald Wexler.

Seymour’s Classic American Mixology Seminar, February 24, 2 and 3 PM, $55 CAMP attendees will have the opportunity to learn how to make classic American cocktails at the Seymour’s Mixology Seminar presented by Foundation 10 Creative. Using period ingredients, F10’s Beverage Director and co-owner of Seymour’s, Steen BojsenMoller, will teach how to shake, stir and enjoy authentic libations that started the cocktail craze. There are two sessions, each priced at $55 (fee includes welcome drink and creation of 3 cocktails to enjoy in session). Attendees must be 21 or older.

On-Site Design Consultations CAMP attendees will be able to schedule thirty-minute sessions with either landscape design professionals or interior designers.

In these consultations offered on two days, experts will give advice and recommendations on current or future renovation projects.

Ask an Interior Designer, 30-minute sessions from 10 AM - 4 PM, February 18, $30 In ASID LA’s “Ask a Professional Interior Designer” attendees will have the opportunity to sit down with interior design professionals to receive simple and affordable design solutions for their homes. Participants are encouraged to bring photos and existing floor plans of their home, as well as a wish list of improvements.

Ask a Landscape Designer, 30-minute sessions from 10 AM - 4 PM, February 18, $30 During the Association of Professional Landscape Designers “Ask a Landscape Designer” consultations, attendees will receive up to 30 minutes of advice from professional landscape designers who will help them create simple and affordable design solutions for their own gardens and solve their landscape design dilemmas.

EVENTS

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VETERAN ACTOR RICHARD KIND STARS IN ONE-MAN SHOW AT ANNENBERG THEATER

BY MICHAEL FELCI

ichard Kind knows he isn’t just another pretty face. And he wouldn’t have it any other way.

The 61-year-old character actor has enjoyed a three-decade-plus career on stage (Chicago’s Second City, “The Big Knife” on Broadway), television (“Mad About You,” “Spin City,” “Curb Your Enthusiasm”) and the big screen (“A Serious Man,” “For Your Consideration,” “Toy Story 3”). Later this month, Kind takes center stage in the acclaimed one-man play, “A Man and His Prostate (Or How I Spent my Italian Vacation)” at the Palm Springs Art Museum’s Annenberg Theater. Yes, it’s a comedy.

The veteran performer recently chatted with us from the set of the upcoming indie film “Auggie” about improvising with Larry David, being directed by the Coen Brothers and returning to Palm Springs for more than just a round of golf.

CV WEEKLY: John Belushi, Tina Fey, Steve Carrell – Second City is considered the mecca of improvisational comedy.

What’s the most important lesson you learned there?

KIND: That the audience teaches you if you’re paying attention. They’re your most important instructor… All the applause, all the laughter and especially the silences –

BREWTALITY

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February 15 to February 21, 2018

you have to be attuned to their reactions.

You have to feel the audience, everything they’re experiencing. That’s how you become a better actor.

CV WEEKLY: You starred in a pair of iconic ’90s sitcoms in “Spin City” and “Mad About You.” What were those experiences like and are you still recognized today for those roles?

KIND: You know, my fan base, if that’s what you want to call it, is very, what’s the word… segmented. It really depends on geography, age group, ethnicity, etc. Those shows were wonderful to be a part of,

but there also people who remember me from “Luck” (HBO series) and “Curb Your Enthusiasm.”

CV WEEKLY: I’m so glad you brought up “Curb Your Enthusiasm”! You play Larry’s oddball cousin, Andy. What’s that process like?

KIND: It’s a lot of fun, honestly. It all starts with a brilliant scenario created by Larry David, and then we improvise from there.

CV WEEKLY: How much of the show would you say is improvised?

KIND: One hundred percent. Larry is able to come up with the story and the structure, and it’s up to us to fill in the rest.

But you’re always aware of what your goal is in a scene, it’s just a matter of how you get there.

CV WEEKLY: Tell us what it was like working with the Coen Brothers on “A Serious Man” (2009)?

KIND: I loved that experience for so many reasons … first, it’s such an obtuse movie. They’re tremendously funny and smart. Ethan is a former philosophy major and he was so relaxed on the set, playing his banjo in between takes. They’re both really nice guys, but also unusual in the sense that they don’t follow a high concept. I would call their films “thinking man’s entertainment.”

HOW TO NOT DIE OF A HANGOVER: PART II

an, it hurts to write this article.

Literally. Or is that figuratively?

I dunno. What I do know is that I’ve got an ache that starts behind my eyes, bounces around my skull without going anywhere (like my nephew when he plays mini golf), and lodges itself into all my pores until It feels like only a hot shower and some pancakes will undo the damage. Time for five more hangover cures!

6) EXERCISE When you’ve drank so much of Boone’s “Snow Creek Berry” (I’m not judging [yes, I am]) that even turning on Hulu seems like a chore, the last thing you want to do is exercise. But the latest research is showing that there are major benefits to peeling yourself off the sofa, just not the way you might have thought.

Your body metabolizes the equivalent of one drink an hour, meaning that even if you drank that entire bottle of Strawberry Hill (still judging btw), your poor liver will still have processed it by the next morning.

This means that although you don’t actually sweat out the alcohol like we’ve all been led to believe, exercise is still a great way to fight hangovers.

Exercise releases a flood of neurochemicals and hormones that boost your energy, mood, motivation and pleasure.

The same qualities that make exercise an effective antidepressant can help you feel better.

Remember to drink a lot of water, since you’re most likely already dehydrated, and check Snapchat to delete any questionable material you may have posted while you

were blotto.

7) VITAMIN B12 In last week’s column I’d mentioned how alcohol is a diuretic that robs your body of fluids, right? Well along with all those fluids goes all your bodies vitamins and nutrients, and I personally have a bone to pick with evolution over this.

I mean, mankind has had 9,000 years to adapt to drinking booze and I feel like that’s enough time for my ancestors to have learned to hold on to their B vitamins when they drink!

B12 is essential to a whole slew of your bodies most major functions including DNA production. It’s required for proper function of the brain, nerves, blood cells, and many other parts of the body, so it’s no wonder that you feel so deathly after you’ve peed all your B vitamins out.

Replenishing your bodies B12 will drastically improve those feelings associated with a hangover, and can be done as easily

as consuming meats, dairy, eggs, and soy products, (basically a hearty breakfast can get things going).

8) SPRITE A team of elite Chinese scientists sacrificed their brain cells, livers, and dignity all to find the world’s greatest hangover cure, and they determined that it was Sprite.

I sh*t you not.

The ubiquitous, sugar-loaded and “lymon” flavored soda is China’s answer to the morning-miseries, and they claim it must do with Sprite’s ability to help the body speed up the breakdown of acetaldehyde (remember that god awful word from my last article? No? Damn boo, go back and read it again).

Well intrepid journalist that I am, I scoured the deep web and combed through the scholarly articles of EBSCOhost, and pretty much no one agrees with those researchers that Sprite is the best hangover cure.

It’s all empty calories and artificial

CV WEEKLY: How do you go about choosing projects?

KIND: I don’t have a pretty face. I’m not young. I’m not a rock star. Educated people hire me because of my talent, not because of my Q-score or number of Twitter followers. Hopefully it’s because I’m right for the role… I also rarely say no.

CV Weekly: Fair enough. Tell us about “A Man and His Prostate.”

KIND: First and foremost it’s entertaining; it’s not like pulling teeth. The writer, Ed Weinberger (“The Cosby Show,” “Taxi”) is a man that I have long admired, and he’s the real star of the show. The writing is so funny and clever, which is saying a lot because it’s about prostate cancer. They say, “good luck getting laughs with cancer,” but this really does. ... I’m very proud to bring this show to Palm Springs. And if anyone wants to play some golf, I’m available.”

‘A Man and His Prostate (Or How I Spent my Italian Vacation)’ Friday, February 23 at 8 p.m.

Saturday, February 24 at 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.

Sunday, February 25 at 3 p.m.

The Annenberg Theater, Palm Springs Art Museum www.psmuseum.org

BY AARON RAMSON ingredients; you’ll get hydration but that’s it.

I suppose if you threw some Alka-Seltzer into your sprite that would be an aight hangover cure, but that’s your bad for taking drinking advice from the Chinese in the first place.

9) GINGER Ginger has been a centuries-used remedy for settling upset stomachs; it’s a natural anti-inflammatory that works like aspirin.

Ginger also helps to promote circulation, and contains chemicals that relax the intestinal tract, preventing and relieving nausea, vomiting, and stomach cramps.

Ginger Ale has a little real ginger in it, Reed’s Ginger Beer (it’s non-alcoholic) has even more, but do you want to know the pro move? Make a fresh tea by boiling sliced or grated ginger root in water. Add a squeeze of lime, sweeten however you’d like, and BAM! A homeopathic, vegan, gluten-free, paleo, and whatever-else-you-wanna-add in there, hangover remedy.

10) BE DRINKING BUDDIES WITH A NURSE OR PARAMEDIC Seriously. The perks are endless, including a free IV hookup and saline drip if you’ve been an especially good friend to them. Did you know that in the pacific theatre of WWII, field medics used coconut water in place of saline solution to administer IV fluids to wounded soldiers? It was an emergency, they weren’t just bored and seeing what would happen. But still!

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February 15 to February 21, 2018

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FILM RIVERSIDE COUNTY FAIR & NATIONAL EVENTS OSCAR NOM DOC Q&A ATBYPICKFORD ROBIN E. SIMMONS DATE FESTIVAL TO OPEN WITH FANTASY $5 FRIDAY

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he Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival invites the public to join in the fun as its gates open on Friday, February 16th, immediately following the 9:30am opening ceremony with Fantasy $5 Friday. Admission is $5 all day long opening day of the Fair, thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, Fantasy Springs Resort Casino. The opening ceremony will include the blessing of the dates and a date shake toast by the Fair’s Queen Scheherazade and her royal court.

Fairground entertainers will be onsite amusing the crowds with street-fair performances.

The Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival typically draws over 300,000 visitors during its ten day run. Keynote speakers at the opening ceremony will include Riverside County 4th District Supervisor V. Manuel Perez; Don Casper, Vice President of Marketing, Fantasy Springs Resort Casino; Rebecca Broughton, Chairman, Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival; and Rob Field, Assistant County Executive Officer/Economic Development Agency. The ceremony will take place outside Gate 1 off Highway 111 near Arabia Street.

Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival Headliner Entertainment Line-up The Annual Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival is pleased to announce a starstudded performer lineup for the 2018 Fair.

Back by popular demand, WAR is set to take the stage on opening Friday, February 16th at 7:30 p.m. Fairgoers can once again groove to WAR’s, “Why Can’t We Be Friends?,” “Slippin’ Into Darkness,” “Don’t Let No One Get You Down,” “Cisco Kid,” and “Low Rider.”

Platinum selling country star Chase Rice will perform at the Fair on Saturday, February 17th at 7:30 p.m. Rice released his highly anticipated sophomore album, Lions & Lambs, November 17th. His first single from Lambs & Lions, “Three Chords & The Truth,” is currently Top 40 and climbing the country charts. Rice’s debut album Ignite the Night debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums.

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Los Rieleros Del Norte will perform at the Fair on Sunday, February 18th at 7:30 p.m. The band is one of the oldest norteño bands performing today. Los Rieleros del Norte have recorded many albums over the years and include: Estampida Norteña, Prieta Orgullos and Aventura Pasada.

Among their many songs, “El Columpio,” “Te Quiero Mucho,” “Amor Prohibido,” “No le Digas a Nadie” and “Copa Sin Vino” are just a few of their many singles, which have been at the top of the Mexican music Billboards.

Lou Gramm, founding member of Foreigner, with Foghat will perform at the Fair Saturday, February 24th at 7:00 p.m. Gramm became one of the most successful rock vocalists of the late 1970s and 1980s with Foreigner. Their hit songs included, “Feels Like the First Time,” “Cold as Ice” and “Hot Blooded.” His unique vocals made Foreigner one of the Billboard’s Top 100 Artists of All Time in hit songs history. Foghat is truly a timeless band with hits like “Slow Ride,” “Fool for the City” and “Third Time Lucky.” Foghat has earned eight Gold records, one Platinum and one Double-Platinum record.

On the last day of the Fair, Sunday, February 26th, Super Fiesta will pack the house with excitement. Performing in the Fantasy Springs Concert Pavilion at 3pm is Los Tequileros de Ramon Jimenez, Banda Pachuco and Carmen Jara.

The Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival is presented by Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, the desert’s leader in gaming and entertainment. The Fair, in Indio, runs February 16-25. Gates are open 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. from Friday-Monday and noon-10 p.m. TuesdayThursday. Purchase your tickets early to take advantage of the discounted prices: $10 for adults, $9 for seniors, $8 for youth, $8 for group tickets or bus tours (minimum of 25), and $22 for Unlimited Carnival Ride Wristbands. For more information, call 800.811.FAIR or visit www. datefest.org where you can buy and print your Fair tickets at home.

F

riday evening, February 9, Syrian filmmaker Firas Fayyed brought “THE LAST MEN IN ALEPPO,” his featurelength Oscar© nominated documentary to Mary Pickford’s D’Place Entertainment for a special Q&A event.

The harrowing film about the devastating Syrian civil war was shot between 2015 and 2016 when Russia’s military began to tip the battle for Aleppo (director Fayyad’s home town) in President Bashar Assad’s favor.

Fayyed began shooting the film himself – some of it on his iPhone -- with no budget or backing when random bombing put at risk all the city’s residents. The devastation was horrific and bloody, but brave civilian volunteers, some of whom were – and still are -- part of the White Helmets organization (officially known as Syria Civil Defence).

They faced a specific threat from Russian armaments aimed at civilian communities and specifically at White Hat headquarters.

Director Fayyad said the Russians had a clear motive for attacking the White Helmets, because they were in a position to document Russian complicity in the slaughter of civilians.

Fayyad’s film is a visceral and gutwrenching tour of hell.

The human toll is hard to fully comprehend, even with the vivid images, some of which are beautiful in a nightmarish way – like the broad view of carpet-bombing in bright sunlight and the strange beauty of ordnance cascading across a night sky.

The pain and suffering along with the dangerous job of finding the dead or rescuing the living is a vivid reminder of the best and worst of our shared human condition.

For the most part, the film follows two civilian volunteers doing their bloody work, running directly into the worst circumstances -- collapsing buildings and exploding car bombs, etc. At film’s end, we are shocked to learn that one of the main characters we have been following has been killed. He had an opportunity to leave Syria, but chose to stay. His wife gave birth to their third child three months after he passed away. The man was a charming presence during the chaos yet conflicted about not leaving his beloved home and community and raking his family to the “safety” of a Turkish refugee camp.

During the Q&A, one member of the audience shouted “Propaganda!” over the soft-spoken director’s words. She would not stop yelling and seemed to be coming from a place that was hard to comprehend, especially after watching such an emotionally

wrenching factual film.

Propaganda… for or against, what or whom? She made little sense but was determined and continued her loud, annoying rant. Clearly the film portrays that the citizens of Aleppo are not responsible for the death and damage to their city. They are just trying to survive and live their lives during the horrendous civil war.

Director Fayyad said for the record, “The Russians have orchestrated a disinformation campaign to try and discredit the work of the White Helmets. “They call them a terrorist group, American CIA [spies], to motivate the community around the world to think about the White Helmets like they are part of intelligence services.” Fayyed adamantly says “we are not.”

In fact, the director himself was imprisoned as an artist and filmmaker.

It can be difficult to parse the politics of Syria’s civil war, but from my perspective, the film is not political or propaganda. I didn’t come out of the movie hating Assad, but instead felt compassion for all the victims and at the same time thankful for a free press, democracy and a stable =society – for now.

Fayyad also shows lighter moments that interrupt the explosive action, as when the men celebrate at a friend’s wedding, kick around a soccer ball or play with their children at a park during a crease fire.

Fayyed said, “We weren’t thinking about ourselves -- we were scared, of course.

We are human. We are not machines,” he concedes. “My mission as a filmmaker is to be a storyteller.”

As difficult as the subject matter may be, this is an important film that reveals our common humanity. This is why I always say, “Movies Matter.”

The version of “LAST MEN IN ALEPPO” that is playing in theaters has a running time of 104 minutes. An 88-minute version is currently streaming on Netflix. robin@coachellavalleyweekly.com

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3RD ANNUAL CV MUSIC SHOWCASE - ROUND 3:

THE WINNER IS – THE CMFS

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V Weekly Music Showcase round 3 at The Hood Bar & Pizza had such a great turn out with such a supportive crowd for all the bands. All four bands kept the night lit with such great performances that kept the crowd rocking! Although, all the bands and members gave an awesome performance, it was definitely ladies night! I have to agree with the judges that the female drummers were on fire!!! All in all the night was exploding with such great talent and all four bands have the potential to achieve much success. Each band performed a 20 minute set and was judged on vocals, stage performance, song originality and audience participation. The judges for round 3 included: Jason Hall (owner & founder of Ruined Vibes Vinyl only Record Label and CV Weekly Music Writer), Julie Montante (owner of PSA Organica), Chance Douglas (bassist & backing vocals for metal band Bound By Years, who will be opening for Soulfly in Colorado) and Eli Becken (music Producer and Grammy nominated musician, formerly of the bands Phallus, Se7en4 and Good Shive Low and currently Dangeroo).

When Tides Turn: Members of the band consist of Jacob Garcia on vocals, Thomas Cazares “TJ” on lead guitar, Thomas Lambert on rhythm guitar, Adrian Whitson on bass and Desiree Mc Caslin on Drums. The band had a powerful performance delivering an in your face metal sound that kept their supporters engaged throughout their set. From the vocals

BACKSTAGE JAZZ

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ne of my favorite desert entertainers is Frank Di Salvo.

His super friendly demeanor and uncanny resemblance to Frank Sinatra combined with a variety of talents have made him one of the deserts top entertainers.

Frank has a long running show at Indian Wells Hotel in the room named after him, Frank’s Place. Frank sings and performs his sell out show for the locals and out of town guests every week. His first set is the classic standards from Frank Sinatra to Rack Pack pals Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. He includes some Nat King Cole tunes as well.

In the second set it’s a whole new kind of music with Frank on guitar doing Blues to Chuck Berry. It’s a fun show.

In talking with Frank he expressed that he’s looking forward to reinventing himself next season with a live band. He loves to play the guitar and has been a commercial guitar player for 53 years. His passion is still for the guitar.

In addition to performing he’s been a guitar maker for the last 52 years. His

BY OLGA RODRIGUEZ

to the drummer’s intensity it was an overall good performance. The band also brought along a substantial fan base coming in all the way from Blythe.

“The drummer is kicking ass!” “Very impressive!” Judge Chance Douglas Captain Ghost: Members consist of Bradley Burton on vocals and guitar, Jacob Miller on guitar, Michael Hendricks on Bass and Corwin Hendricks on drums. Between their “Devilish smiles,” great vocals and song composition it was a solid performance with their death surf rock sound.

“You all had good energy up there, and you have a unabomber on drums. I’m also going to make sure not to bring my daughters to your shows.” Judge Eli Becken “You have a very promising future.” Judge Julie Montante He Films The Clouds: Members consist of Xavier Hernandez on vocals, Jacob Garcia on guitar, Cameron Homa on guitar, Joseline Gale on drums and Jordan Price on Bass. A mixture of progressive metal and hardcore they had great stage presence and enthusiastic audience participation.

“Guitarist and vocalist have great stage presence. I loved watching it!!” Judge Chance Douglas “Best drummer by far.” Judge Jason Hall Last but not least, round 3 winners, CMF’s, members consist of Joseph Vaughan on guitar and vocals, Jasyn Smith on drums and

HE FILMs THE CLOUDS

February 15 to February 21, 2018

THE CMFS

Joseph Mendoza “JJ” on Bass. CMF’s (Classy Mother Fu?kers)captivated the audience with an amazing performance. The name alone intrigued the audience. This is the band’s third time competing in the CV Weekly’s Showcase.

After speaking with Jasyn Smith, he explained that they were all very happy about winning a spot in the finals. He reports that it felt great and feels that all their hard work is paying off.

They have worked hard on improving their stage presence because he feels that it is what

WHEN TIDES TURN

FRANK DI SALVO

CV MUSIC SHOWCASE

hurt them in the past showcases. All their hard work is definitely paying off, not only did they win the $200 cash prize they will move on to the finals. Congratulations guys!

“I fucken love you guys.” Judge Jason Hall “I think you guys will have a great career.”

Judge Julie Montante “The name of your band alone makes me want your music.” Judge Chase Douglas “The highlight for me was the song composition, time changes that are unfuckenbelievable.” Judge Eli Becken With two more rounds remaining CMF’s, along with Manuel the Band round 1 winners, and Sleazy Cortez round 2 winners, will move on to the Showcase Finals for a chance to win $2,000 cash sponsored by Brad Guth of The Hood and Julie Montante of PSA Organica; a photo shoot courtesy of Laura Hunt Little Images; and a one track recording with Arthur Seay at his Bitter Sands Recording Studio.

Finals will be held at The Hood Bar & Pizza on Saturday, May 12. The next Showcase for round 4 will be on Sunday, March 4, 2018.

CAPTAIN GHOST

BY PATTE PURCELL

website www.disalvoguitars.com showcases the history of that business. He currently has 8 guitars in different states of completion.

He joked that the hardest part is letting go of them. He doesn’t plan on starting anymore (right now) but he says when he gets a picture of one in his mind he just has to create it.

Frank reached out to me over an invitation that he received to perform a song he wrote for the Trump campaign at Mar a Lago. He was delighted to receive the invitation.

His friend Ed Gerney had called Frank to have him write music to the lyrics that he had written. They wrote a song for candidate Trump called “We’re Going to Make America Great Again”. When Frank read the lyrics he immediately heard the tune in his head. He went into the studio and recorded it. They then set out to get it introduced to the campaign.

A friend introduced him to Toni Cramer (who knows the President) and sang her the song. She loved it and helped him market

it to the campaign. Sadly it was not chosen however, Toni threw a one year anniversary party at Mar a Lago and invited Frank to perform the song live for the 800 guests. It was a big hit. It was a great night for Frank as you can imagine. He had his picture taken with notables including Robert Davi and Judge Jeanine along with his lovely bride Addy.

You can catch Franks show at Indian Wells Resort Hotel, 76-661 Highway 111 in Indian Wells on Friday and Saturday evenings from 6 to 9 pm. Reservations are recommend since he sells out every night.

Patte Purcell is a jazz promoter. Her next event is a private party for the cannabis industry on Monday March 5 in Palm Desert.

Call ‘A 420 Jazz Soiree’ it features 3 national acts. To get on the invitation list text your name and email to 1-702-219-6777.

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February 15 to February 21, 2018

CONSIDER THIS

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BY ELENI P. AUSTIN

THE CHOIR (OMNIVORE RECORDINGS)

O

“ARTIFACT: THE UNRELEASED ALBUM

n a Sunday night in February, 1964, America had its collective mind blown when the Beatles made their first appearance on the “Ed Sullivan” show. One of the most long lasting, ancillary effects from that performance is that it motivated kids everywhere to plug their guitars into amps and start their own bands.

Almost immediately, thriving music scenes sprang up in towns and cities all across the country. Sometimes nascent combos, (like the Box Tops from Memphis, the Kingsmen from Portland and the Sam The Sham & The Pharaohs from Dallas) had hit singles chart in the Top 10. But there were literally hundreds of bands (like the Jynx from Memphis, the Nazz from Philadelphia and Zackary Thax from Corpus Christi), who achieved only regional success.

The Choir was that kind of band. Massively popular in their hometown of Cleveland, Ohio, they had a local #1 hit, “It’s Cold Outside.” But the song just missed cracking the Billboard Top 40, only reaching #49 nationwide. Somehow their local acclaim never translated to Worldwide dominion, but it should have.

Originally known as The Mods, multiinstrumentalist Dann Klawon formed the band in Mentor, a Cleveland suburb, in 1965.

There were three incarnations of The Mods before they morphed into The Choir. Between 1965 and 1967, they endured a series of line-up changes that severely curtailed their momentum. Three on-and-off members, Jim Bonafanti, Wally Bryson and Dave Smalley eventually achieved international acclaim as 3/4s of the Raspberries. But that wasn’t until the early ‘70s. (Ironically, future Raspberries front-man, Eric Carmen auditioned for The Choir, but didn’t make the cut, so he joined their arch rivals, Cyrus Erie).

Line-up #3 was responsible for “It’s Cold Outside,” unfortunately, follow-up singles couldn’t sustain that momentum and the band broke up in early 1968. A few months later a new version of The Choir emerged, sans founder, Dann Klawon, but featuring Phil Giallombardo on organ, Randy Klawon on guitars, Denny Carleton on bass, Jim

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

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Bonfanti on drums and Kenny Margolis on piano. Vocal duties were evenly split between all five guys.

Between 1968 and early 1969, the fivepiece wrote and recorded 10 tracks at Ken Hamann’s Cleveland Recording Studio.

Somehow, the music remained unreleased until Ken’s son Paul, (owner of Suma Recordings in Painsville, Ohio), unearthed the original tapes. Now the cool kids at the Omnivore label have remastered each song.

The end result is Artifact: The Unreleased Album. Although a couple of these songs popped up on a compilation from the mid ‘90s, this is the first time most of this material has seen the light of day.

The album opens with the Baroque splendor of “Anyway I Can.” Kaleidoscopic keys collide with blistering guitar riffs, a propulsive backbeat and quivery vocals.

Plaintive lyrics pledge undying fealty to a long-distance love; “When I’m far away she’s good to me, I know my love for her was meant to be.” Jim Bonfanti pounds his kit with such authority, it undercuts the slightly sappy sentiment of the lyrics.

Previous incarnations of The Choir leaned toward the concise Power Pop crunch pioneered by British Invasion bands like the Beatles and the Kinks. But the 1968 edition tilted heavily toward Psychedelia. A couple of tracks, “If These Are Men and “I Can’t Stay In Your Life” add an array of colors to their sonic palette. “…. Men” weds swirly guitar riffs and polychromatic keys to a walloping rhythm.

Despite the urgent, Alpha-Male melody and arrangement, the lyrics are surprisingly sensitive; “My friends say shy away from her as much as you can, don’t show Your feelings or get hurt, cause you must be a man/But if these are men Then count me out, leave me stand in my doubt, cause I’ve been staying away from you.” On the instrumental break, Phil Giallombardo unleashes a feverish organ solo as Randy Klawon layers in razor sharp guitar riffs over Jim Bonfanti’s pummeling percussion. The tune slows momentarily before launching into a frenetic coda On “I Can’t Stay In Your Life,” dirty, distorto power chords side-swipe crashing piano notes, sinewy bass lines and acid wash organ, over a whip-crack beat. The lyrics quickly dismiss a Machiavellian ex; “I tried to love you but I soon found out I didn’t fit the clothes you wore.” A tart declaration of independence; “I don’t want what you have or what you’re aiming for/The very next thing that I’ll do is walk right out your door,” is underscored by instrumentation that builds to a cyclonic intensity. The tempo accelerates as rattler riffs coil around spatial keys until the song collapses in a sweaty, sodden heap. The action slows slightly on two tracks, “Ladybug” and “It’s All Over.” The former blends treacly organ, thumpy bass, a tick-tock rhythm and surprisingly gritty Blues guitar. It locks into a goose-step groove as cryptic lyrics employ the same flower power

imagery as “Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds.”

The latter is a piano driven lament that is melancholy and surprisingly soulful.

On an excellent record packed with transcendent tracks, two cuts stand out.

“Have I No Love To Offer” is the album’s magnum opus. Clocking in at nearly six minutes, it opens with meandering piano chords and plaintive vocals. Soul-searching lyrics unfurl like a cri de couer, asking “Why Can’t I live my life all alone and free, I always dream about the way it used to be.” The melody quickly gathers speed, accentuating switchblade guitars and a crisp bongo beat. Upping the ante on the extended instrumental break, a waspish guitar solo intersects with shimmery organ colors and thundering drums. The song presages the Bee Gees’ sad-sack lament, “How Can You Mend A Broken Heart,” but adds a bit of mid-

western grit to the proceedings.

Meanwhile, “Boris’ Lament” offers a master class is Psychedelia. Hairpin organ fills lattice over rippling, rococo piano runs and prickly guitars. As Kenny Margolis’ sweeping piano notes give way to Randy Klawon’s muscular guitar, Jim Bonfanti locks into a tour de force drum solo that kicks the track into interstellar overdrive.

Other interesting songs include the epic instrumental “For Eric.” Here, tentative piano, shaker percussion and fluttery organ give way to a see-saw rhythm. The melody pivots between a sedate Cha-Cha-Cha and a seductive Bolero. The shape-shifting tempo quickly escalates, pounding out a tribal tattoo. Slithery organ notes snake through the arrangement, supplanted by a mindbending guitar solo. They also offer a pitch perfect take on the Kinks deep cut, “David Watts.” The album closes with “Mummer’s Band,” a bit of a Music Hall- flavored throw away.

Although The Choir influenced a plethora of Ohio bands, and remain a touchstone for Power Pop aficionados, they’ve never really gotten their due. Artifact gives the world another chance to (re)discover this amazing group. 50 years ago they were ahead of the curve. In some ways, they still are.

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BY ANGELA ROMEO ART SCENE ULRIKE: SEEING THE WORLD THROUGH EYES OF INNOCENCE

S

ome say the eyes are the windows of the soul. Some say art is the eye of a society. For Ulrike her eyes are reflected in the whimsical portraitist she paints.

Born in Salzburg, Austria, Ulrike moved to Los Angeles in 1981. She worked for almost 20 years in the world of motion pictures and television. For the past 30 years Ulrike followed her heart studying, teaching and writing, about her passion - her metaphysical findings. In 2011 she established Modern Thought Theories. Her theories focused on practical and provable guide to living a more positive life.

“I remember being the ‘different kid’ – more creative and inquisitive than my peers. I wanted to sing. I wanted to travel. I eventually moved to Hollywood. It was there I began a new journey of soulsearching and truth finding. I joined a metaphysical class and tested everything that I learned. I experienced faith, hope, amazement, and wonder,” continued Ulrike. “In 2011 I left the corporate world and began to write. My goal was to write about my knowledge of the workings of the mind, and I wanted to share all the goodness it had brought into my life.”

As a published author Ulrike has written over 80 life-style articles for on-line and print magazines and published 5 books.

In 2015 Ulrike moved to Palm Springs and began the next chapter in her life. She began to paint. She paints on a daily basis using acrylic on canvas.

Ulrike’s work is color – bold, vibrant color. Her favorite subjects are animals.

It is these animals that carry with the warm gaze of their creator. “My passion for painting started in early childhood, but I could finally fulfill my dream of being a fulltime artist, when I relocated to Palm Springs. Here, in this wonderful art community, I continue my creative journey painting from the heart. I work mostly with acrylics and texture on canvas. I love bright vibrant colors for my many nature inspired

February 15 to February 21, 2018

works. It’s all about creating beauty and making people smile,” said Ulrike.

Like her books, her paintings have levels of meanings. When looking at the work one sees the fables of Aesop and the works of Henri Julien Felix Rousseau.

Rousseau was a French Post-Impressionist painter in the Naive or Primitive style. Like Ulrike he was a self-taught. The genius of his work is akin to the genius of Ulrike’s work. The complexity of the work lies in the flatness of the piece. The ability to capture wonderment and innocence belies a sophistication that few can appreciate.

There is an attention to detail without the loss of purity. It is within that subtle beauty that Ulrike’s work shines. Her passion for what is and what can be radiates. But most importantly the work does make one smile.

Ulrike’s work can be seen at various galleries including: Art& Beyond Gallery in Idyllwild and Colliding Worlds Fine Art Gallery in Cathedral City. For more information visit: www.thehappypaintbrush.com.

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February 15 to February 21, 2018

PET PLACE

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DOG NAPPING, A RISING CRIME

I

noticed a beautiful Bluenose pit bull dog tied up to a post outside Trader Joe’s in Palm Desert while shopping there recently. Assuming the owner was inside I waited by the animal for someone to return. The young man was polite when I told him about the danger of pet theft, and we discussed how this particular breed would be on the desired list of many thieves. He naively believed his dog was safe because he was in an “economically advantaged” area.

The American Kennel Club reports a 70% increase in dog theft in recent years. One woman in New Mexico was arrested and charged with stealing over 50 neighborhood dogs. With so many homeless animals available, why would anyone want to steal one? What are some of the things you can do to protect your pets from this crime? Here are some of the ways dogs are stolen.

1. DOGS LEFT IN CARS There are many reasons not to leave your dog alone in a car, including death from heat stroke. A Coachella Valley resident dashed inside to pick up fast food one afternoon, leaving her automobile running with her two small dogs inside. A thief stole her car with the two dogs inside. Through good detective

MEET KIKI This majestic Maine Coone mix waits for a home at Petco Palm Desert, Highway 111. Rescued by www.ForeverMeow.org, 2-yr-old Kiki is a special affectionate and very confident kitty.

MEET BINDI This lovely 1-yr-old Cattle dog loves humans, other pups, and horses! This intelligent girl could be your new “best bud”.

Rescued by the Humane Society of the Desert, 17825 Indian Ave, N. Palm Springs, www.orphanpet.com, (760) 329-0203.

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work, the dogs were recovered. It only takes a second for a thief to force down a partially open car window, or smash a window. A dog can be stolen from a locked car in about 20 seconds, less time than it takes you to run that quick errand.

2. HIGHLY PRIZED BREEDS Pure breed dogs attract more thieves because they can be resold for a large amount of cash. The most targeted breeds include Yorkshire Terriers, Maltese, Pomeranians and Boston Terriers. Sadly, pit bulls may be stolen by criminals seeking to engage in dog fighting.

3. DOGS IN BACKYARDS Keep an eye on them when your dog

BY JANET McAFEE is in the back yard, especially if you have a doggie door. If you are away from home, it is important to keep your pets inside. If your dog is friendly, a thief can steal him in about 30 seconds from your yard.

4. PETS TIED UP IN FRONT OF BUSINESSES You pop into Starbucks and tie Benji up to a table outside. Thieves assume these animals have a gentle nature and are easy prey. No one even notices when a stranger takes him by the leash and casually walks away. Rather than risk your dog being stolen, risk the ire of the shop manager and take your dog inside when you run errands. Many businesses will not object to your bringing a well behaved dog inside.

5. STRANGERS AND WORKMEN Any person coming into your home or neighborhood can be a thief surveying your property and the pets living there. Drug addicts, always in need of quick cash, check out the valuable tools in your garage and make a note of your cute Shih Tzu peering out the side fence. They are not concerned about how stealing a pet could break your heart.

They view the animal as an easy $100 bill.

WHY DO THIEVES STEAL DOGS? Your worst nightmare when Benji goes missing is to never know his fate. Your beloved dog could end up as bait in a dog fighting ring, or sold to a laboratory for experimental testing. Drug addicts and petty thieves view your animals as a source of quick cash. Other people may feel justified in stealing your dog if they believe it is not well cared for or running loose in the neighborhood. Other times, taking someone’s pet is an act of revenge. Keep your pet micro chipped and tagged with identification to facilitate his return if he goes missing or is stolen. Have a good photograph of your pet to use for flyers and Facebook postings in case he goes missing for any reason. Be safe, be vigilant, and treasure your precious pet!

Jmcafee7@verizon.net

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THE VINO VOICE

February 15 to February 21, 2018

BY RICK RIOZZA

THE RANCHO MIRAGE WINE & FOOD FEST!!

I

know of no better venue in town than to wine down Valentine’s Week with a wine jaunt and culinary cruise all within the Rancho Mirage Amphitheater and Community Park this February 17th. I know it’s last minute— but hey! That’s what we do best around here: so no problem—it’s on our calendar stat!

Okay—so if you haven’t yet heard, here’s the luscious chatter written about it: “Join us on Feb 17, 2018 and enjoy over 200 incredible wines and cuisine from 17 of Rancho Mirage’s very best chefs. Award winning wineries will be pouring their world-class wines from Napa, Sonoma, Paso Robles, Santa Barbara, Lodi, Washington State, The Santa Lucia Highlands, Temecula, France and Italy.

Enjoy an afternoon of unlimited fun, wine, food and live upbeat music—it’s the classiest wine and food festival under the sun! If you love wine and great food, then the Rancho Mirage Wine & Food Festival is the event for you!”

When I first saw the Rancho Mirage Fest advertised, I thought to myself, “Did I cover this event last year?” Well—the answer is: that would have been impossible, for this festival is in its inaugural year—isn’t it about time!!

You know when the world considers Rancho Mirage, they not only think of it as the “golf playground of the Presidents, they also have a pretty good idea that the city showcases some of the best restaurants around. So what a great idea to commandeer the gastronomic powerhouses and match their culinary prowess to some of the finest wines from around the world!

I recently met up with the festival organizer David Fraschetti. Although we’ve never met, I soon learned that I know about him already.

He’s the guy behind the popular VinDiego Wine and Food Festival—one of the most fun events down in San Diego, going on seven years now. David and his wife reside here in Rancho Mirage, so of course our beautiful surrounds prompted him to seek out a venue to share the love, the food, and the wine with all of us enthusiastic foodies and vino lovers.

He and his wife were playing tennis at Rancho Mirage Community Park one day, while the popular Art Fair was also going on.

The couple wondered, “Could this be the ideal venue?” Walking through the area, they were amazed at how large that park really is. David decided to partner with the Rancho Mirage Chamber of Commerce and now here we go!

Where the presidents and perhaps the world will be watching and wanting tickets to this fine event.

David humbly states that he’s no wine connoisseur but surely he knows what he likes; but I will say, he has the pulse of the Southern California wine community as evident by his selection of world class wineries to the Festival. And here’s the news: David personally visits the wineries he invites to pour at these festivals; and he requests that only the owner, winemaker, winery rep or distributor manage the tasting booths so as to answer any inquiries

as to the wines exhibited. How classy and refreshing to hear.

Further, David’s experience has taught him that to present a memorable event—one that causes the visitors to look forward to the next year’s festival, is to simply focus on the wine and the dishes presented. As he’s learned from his VinDiego festivals, “it’s about people coming together to celebrate a shared passion: a love for great wine and mouth-watering gourmet food.”

“There’s no beer, no booze and no cooking demonstrations that often serve to detract from the wineries and wine presented.” David assures our readers that, “We’re not trying to be everything to everyone. This is an elegant and stylish marketing event for our high-end top tier wineries, and thus, is a true wine connoisseur’s delight!” At last count, there are 17 Rancho Mirage restaurants and 50 wineries participating.

Personally, I’m very happy to hear of the wonderful winery line-up ahead. Just thinking out loud, some of the wine brands to catch will be: Ahnfeldt, who’s consulting winemaker is no other than Paul Hobbs! Hitching Post, with their delicious Santa Barbara reds; MacRostie, whose Chardonnay may well be the best

wine to serve with olive-oil fried codfish with dill-butter; and, Navarro Vineyards whose Anderson Valley/Mendocino Coast wines continue to score Best-in-Class, such as their Gewürztraminer and Première Reserve Chardonnay.

Too many fine wineries to mention here, so please go online to the website, indicated below, to check out all of the fantastic players in the wine game this weekend.

The good news just continues: As ticket purchasers, you’ll be supporting The Desert AIDS Project! 100% of all proceeds from our silent auction and a portion of tickets sales will be donated to this fine Coachella Valley charity and will help them provide support for those living with, affected by, or at-risk for HIV or AIDS. This is a festival after all, so look for some lively sounds at the event as a steady stream of live musical entertainment will be provided so guests can relax or dance the afternoon away.

The Festival takes place on Saturday, Feb. 17, from noon until 4pm. at the Rancho Mirage Amphitheater and Community Park, at 71560 San Jacinto Drive. Tickets start at $75. Visit www.ranchomiragewineandfoodfestival.com for those tickets or more information.

Your all-inclusive General Admission and VIP ticket includes an elegant crystal souvenir wine glass and unlimited tastes of award winning wines, along with a dizzying variety of gourmet appetizers, tasty cheeses, artisan breads, and olive oils. The Early Entry VIP ticket allows you to get in one hour earlier than the General Admission ticket.

I’ll see you there!—Cheers!

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February 15 to February 21, 2018

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THUR FEBUARY 15

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

HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Open Mic 9pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Punk Rock Night 9pm LA QUINTA OLDTOWN TAPROOM; LQ; TBA 8-11pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Hot Rox LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-345-2450 Country Night w/ Country Nation 8pm THE LOUNGE, AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 888999-1995 Quinto Menguante 8-1am MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm MOXIE; PS; 760-318-9900 Rick the Piano Man 6pm 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 Mick Rhodes and the Hard Eight 8pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Open Mic w/ Rob Lawrence 9pm RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 DJ Worden 9pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Evaro Brothers 8pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; PS; 760-322-9293 The Smooth Brothers 7pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 Dude Jones 6pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 T-Bone Karaoke 8pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Wayne Boyer 6:30pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Robert Salisbury 5-7pm, Steve Oliver 7:3011pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Alex Santana 5-8pm THE WINE EMPORIUM; LQ; 760-565-5512 DJ 7pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 Linda Peterson 6:30pm ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 DJ 8pm

FRI FEBUARY 16

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29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Jasmine Tommaso 6:30pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 TBA 10pm AGAVE LOUNGE@THE HYATT REGENCY; IW; 760-674-4080 Art of Sax 8pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Shelley Yoelin Group 6:30pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Friday Night Sour Hour w/ Pink Lemonade Drag Show 9pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 DJ Addemup and Friends 9pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Barry Minniefield 7pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 Hi-Fi Academy 8:30pm BLUE BAR, SPOTLIGHT 29; INDIO; 760-7755566 DJ Double A 8pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 The Stanley Butler Trio 6-10pm CASCADE LOUNGE, SPA RESORT CASINO; PS; 888-999-1995 DJ Michael Wright 9-1am CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm CATALAN; RM; 760-770-9508 George Christian 6-9pm CHEF GEORGE’S PICASSO LOUNGE; BD; 760-200-1768 Denny Pezzin 7-10pm

CLUB 5; IND; 760-625-1719 DJ 9pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill Baker 6pm DESERT FOX; PD; Petting Zoo 8:30pm ELECTRIC SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-2281199 DJ Ceddy Cedd 9pm EL MEXICALI CAFÉ 2; IND; 760-342-2333 Cesar Daniel Lopez on the harp 6-9pm FISHERMAN’S GROTTO; PD; 760-776-6533 Gina Carey 6pm THE GRILL ON MAIN; LQ; 760-777-7773 The Myx 8:30pm THE HARD ROCK HOTEL PS; PS; 760-3259676 Esjay Jones Presents: Acoustic Sessions w/ Adrian Bambrough and The Traveling Fools 8pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 CV Weekly Presents: Se7en4, Death in Pretty Wrapping, Mega Sun and Sleazy Cortez 9pm HOODOO COCKTAIL GARDEN @ THE HYATT; PS; 760-322-9000 Keisha D 7pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Live VJ 9pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760345-6466 Bob Allen 6pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Karaoke 7:30pm KILO’S CANTINA; TP; 760-835-1363 Los Muecas – Noche De Los Enamorados 9pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Karaoke 8pm LA QUINTA BREWERY; PD; TBA 6pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Palm Springs Sound Company in the afternoon, Hot Rox in the night LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-345-2450 Cirle of Fifths 9pm THE LOUNGE; AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 888999-1995 DJ Jerry 9pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm MOXIE; PS; 760-318-9900 TBA 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; 760-3274080 Chris Houchin 9pm PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB; PD; 760345-0222 Gennine Francis 6:30pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 Valley Queen 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 P.S. Jump!

8pm RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 Ghosts of Kelso 9pm RIVIERA; PS; 760-327-8311 Michael Keeth 7:30pm 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 SMOKIN’ BURGERS; PS; 760-883-5999 Ron James 6pm SOLANO’S BISTRO; LQ; 760-771-6655 Michael Madden 6-9pm

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February 15 to February 21, 2018

THE WINE EMPORIUM; LQ; 760-565-5512 Chris Houchin 7pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 The Stanley Butler Band 6:30pm ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 DJs 9pm

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

SAT FEBUARY 17

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Bev & Bill 6:30pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 TBA 11am poolside, TBA 10pm AGAVE LOUNGE@THE HYATT REGENCY; IW; 760-674-4080 Art of Sax 8pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Cabaret on the Green Open Mic 7:30pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Denise Carter 7:30pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Erotic City w/ The Travelers Club, Addemup, Amavida and Dxsko 9pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Barry Minniefield 7pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 Fan Halen 8:30pm BLUE BAR; SPOTLIGHT 29; IND; 760-7755566 DJ 9pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 Gina Carey 6-10pm CASCADE LOUNGE, SPA RESORT CASINO; PS; 888-999-1995 DJ Michael Wright 9-1am CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm CATALAN; RM; 760-770-9508 George Christian 6-9pm CHEF GEORGE’S PICASSO LOUNGE; BD; 760-200-1768 Denny Pezzin 7-10pm CHILL BAR; PS; 760-327-1079 TBA 9pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill Baker 6pm DHS SPA LOUNGE; DHS; 760-329-6787 Karaoke w/ DJ Scott 9pm ELECTRIC SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-2281199 DJ Ceddy Cedd 9pm EL MEXICALI CAFÉ 2; IND; 760-342-2333 Cesar Daniel Lopez on the harp 6-9pm FISHERMAN’S GROTTO; PD; 760-776-6533 Jack Ruvio 6pm THE GRILL ON MAIN; LQ; 760-777-7773 TBA 8:30pm THE GROOVE LOUNGE; SPOTLIGHT 29; INDIO; 760-775-5566 DJ 8pm THE HARD ROCK HOTEL PS; PS; 760-3259676 Esjay Jones Presents: Global Sessions w/ David Macias w/ The Traveling Fools 8pm

THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Throw the Goat, Instigator and Kill the Radio 9pm HOODOO COCKTAIL GARDEN @ THE HYATT; PS; 760-322-9000 The Carmens 7pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Live VJ 9pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760345-6466 Bob Allen 6pm KILO’S CANTINA; TP; 760-835-1363 DJ Mania!! Electronic Dance Music Event 9pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Karaoke 8pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Palm Springs Sound Company,in the afternoon,Hot Rox,in the night LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-345-2450 Circle of Fifths 9pm THE LOUNGE, AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 888999-1995 Shaken Not Stirred 9pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm MOXIE; PS; 760-318-9900 TBA 6pm, 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; 760-3274080 Heavy Revel 9pm PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB; PD; 760345-0222 Agave Bluesmasters 6:30pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 Shadow Mountain Band 5pm, The Kenneth Brian 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 Chadwick Johnson 8pm RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 Drumhall 9pm RIVIERA; PS; 760-327-8311 Andy Cahan 6pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Evaro Brothers 8pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; PS; 760-322-9293 Barry Baughn Blues 8-11pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; LQ; 760-777-1601 The Smooth Brothers 8-11pm SHELLY’S LOUNGE@TORTOISE ROCK CASINO; 29 Palms; Rojer Arnold & Bobby Furgo 9pm SIDEWINDER GRILL; DHS; 760-329-7929 Karaoke w/ Milly G 6pm SMOKIN’ BURGERS; PS; 760-883-5999 Ron James 6pm SOUL OF MEXICO; IND; 760-200-8787 Latin Music 10pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 TBA 6pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 Hotwyre 9pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Dennis Michael 6:30pm TRILUSSA ITALIAN RISTORANTE; PS; 760328-2300 Julius & Sylvia Music Duo 6-10pm VIBE, MORONGO CASINO; CAB; 951-7555391 DJ 10pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Rose Mallett & Co. 5-7pm, Kal David, Lauri Bono & The Real Deal 7:30-11pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Calista Carradine 6pm WESTIN MISSION HILLS; RM; 760-328-5955 Michael Keeth 6pm WILLIE BOYS; MV; 760-932-4300 Petting Zoo 7pm

SUN FEBUARY 18

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Bob Garcia 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 DJ 11am poolside, TBA 9pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Jazz Brunch w/ Rose Mallett 11:30am AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 The Judy Show 7:30pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Bartland w/ DJ LF and Friends 9pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Brian Denigan 7pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 Black Water Gospel EP Release Party w/ brightener and The Flusters 7pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 TBA 6-10pm CASCADE LOUNGE, SPA RESORT; PS; 888999-1995 Nash with Quinto Menguante 9pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm CHEF GEORGE’S PICASSO LOUNGE; BD; 760-200-1768 Lori Yeary 6-9pm CORKTREE; PD; 760-779-0123 Michael Keeth 6-9pm 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 FISHERMAN’S MARKET; LQ; 760-777-1601 Jack Ruvio 6-9pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Palm Springs Sound Company, in the afternoon, Hot Rox, in the night

continue to page 22

17

February 15 to February 21, 2018

THEPAMPERED PALATE

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

BY CRAIG MICHAELS

YOU’RE INVITED TO THE RIBBON CUTTING OF THE CRAFT RANCHO MIRAGE

O

n the corner of Frank Sinatra and Bob Hope Dr. is where you will find the S at Rancho Mirage. The S Club (Formally Desert Island) is home to the only high-rise condos in the Coachella Valley. It is also home to the valley’s newest restaurant called The Craft. This once, members-only restaurant, is now open to the general public.

Just drive up to the gate to let them know you’re there for dinner and enjoy the country club lifestyle without the membership!

The S at Rancho Mirage is the brainchild of Chef Erick Hernandez. Chef Erick Hernandez is a native to the Coachella valley and was born in Palm Springs, CA. Hernandez was previously executive chef and food and beverage director for Indian Canyons Golf Resort. Prior to being at Indian Canyons Golf Resort he was Executive Sous Chef for the Reopening of Escena Golf Course. He received his associates in Culinary Arts and a Bachelor’s degree in Culinary Management at the Culinary Institute in San Diego, CA. Prior to his management experience, Chef Hernandez learned under Executive Chef Martin Woesle at the pristine Mille Fleurs in Rancho Santa Fe, CA. Chef is very excited to show case his passion for California Cuisine by using fresh quality and locally sourced ingredients.

Although Erick has lots of experience in the kitchen, he knew he would need a partner that was no stranger to food & beverage to handle the business side of things. He approached his friend, John Trad, who has been working in the food industry for decades and the two of them decided to pair up. John has an impressive resume working

18

previously as the Food & Beverage Manger at Riviera Resort & Spa and the Ritz Carlton in Rancho Mirage. Beside business experience, John has also worked in the produce industry for decades and knows good quality food.

Not only is the food used in the kitchen of the highest quality but according to Chef Erick, everything at Craft is made from scratch. The menu consists of a nice mix of fresh soups and salads while some of the popular appetizers include Truffle Fries and Ahi Nachos. I had the Sugar & Spice Salmon which I think was the best tasting salmon I have ever had. You’ll also find selections like Angus Steak, sumptuous Shrimp Scampi and chicken Picatta to choose from. The signature dish that is getting a lot of early attention is the Impossible Burger. The vegan product is plant based but bleeds like real meat.

Believe it or not, many people including myself have said it tastes better than a real hamburger. The Craft Rancho Mirage is the only restaurant in the Coachella Valley serving up this new burger. If you would like to get a taste of the Impossible Burger and many more restaurants in Rancho Mirage you can come out to the Rancho Mirage

Food and Wine Festival Saturday February 17th from noon to 4pm at the Rancho Mirage Amphitheater.

A few nights to put on your calendar are Saturday nights, they have a Prime Rib special for $30.00 which includes soup or salad. Also, on Thursday nights there is live entertainment in the lounge. The Craft Rancho Mirage is a great venue for wedding and corporate events with a ballroom that seats 350 people and has views for days.

The Restaurant is now open for Happy Hour Monday through Friday from 3pm to 6pm and open for Dinner Thursday through Saturday from 5pm to 9pm.

You are invited to a first-class culinary experience and party as they celebrate the Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting with the Rancho Mirage Chamber of Commerce.

This free event is Friday February 23, 2018 from 4pm to 7pm. Guests can sample menu items prepared by Chef Erick and enjoy complimentary champagne. There will be live music from Mark Gregg and Misty Howell plus lots of raffle prizes. If you have questions about the Craft Rancho Mirage or would like to RSVP you can call (760) 328-2111. Email: thecraft@thesresort.com Written By: Craig Michaels Productions (760) 880-3848

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

February 15 to February 21, 2018

19

February 15 to February 21, 2018

SCREENERS

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

BY ROBIN E. SIMMONS

No. 302

BLACK SUPER HERO LIVES MATTER NOW SHOWING: BLACK PANTHER

Significant on so many levels, it made the cover of Time Magazine. Much more than a just a movie about a black superhero, made by black people for black people that empowers black people in an age of renewed racism!

20

Director and co-writer Ryan Coogler brings to vibrant life T’Challa/Black Panther (a terrific Chadwick Boseman) whom you may recall from 2016’s “Captain America: Civil War,” although his first appearance was in a 1966 “Fantastic Four” #52 thanks to Stan Lee and artist Jack Kirby. Boseman garnered deserved praise when he played Jackie Robinson and James Brown. His casting here is inspired.

In “Captain America: Civil War,” T’Challa’s dad died in an explosion. Now, his son returns home to remote Wakanda to inherit the throne and take his rightful place as King in a stunning coronation ceremony. Wakanda’s a poor country with fantastic futuristic technology, thanks to an abundance of Vibranium.

T’Challa/Black Panther is put to the test when an old enemy shows up and draws him into a dangerous conflict that not only threatens his entire kingdom but the rest of the world.

The intelligent and deeply nuanced screenplay by Coogler and Joe Cole creates an ancient African culture that is not the savage and primitive one that might first come to mind. The informed dialogue does not skirt references to contemporary

NEW BLU FOR THE HOME THEATER: PLAY DIRTY (1968)

moral issues such as: are wealthy countries obligated to help poor countries? No message here, just food for thought.

The taut direction, smart performances, exuberant action and the lush, eye-popping world of the story are all fully realized. Black Panther’s confrontation with the evil South African arms merchant Ulysses Klaus (Andy Serkis) is tense, meaningful and electric.

There are so many engaging and exemplary things in this wonderfully satisfying and entertaining film that space does not allow a full description of the complex plot, relevant themes and many memorable moments.

Just know that this trip to a long overdue part of the marvel Cinematic Universe is well worth taking. I can’t wait to see it again. And again. It’s that good, even if the over-wrought super hero genre is not your cup of tea In the past, it was a tradition that the White House held special screenings of new movie releases. I wonder if that tradition still exists and if “Black Panther” will be shown?

This gritty desert combat caper, a forgotten gem, is the last and -- in my opinion -- the best film directed by veteran Andre De Toth. The betrayal themes that haunt much of his work are carried to extremes here.

Michael Cain, Nigel Green and Harry Andrews top the superb cast. Set in North Africa during World War II, the “heroes” are vile, unsympathetic loners operating outside the mainstream military in a tense, violent narrative that plays both ends against the middle.

Noteworthy are the wordless extended action sequences and the wry, sarcastic tone throughout. It all fits perfectly and is wonderfully enhanced by the sensational Michel Legrand score. Twilight Time Movies, Limited Edition (only 3,000 units)). Blu-ray.

Comments? robin@coachellavalleywekly.com

BOOK REVIEW

-----------------------------------------------------

“UNFU*K YOURSELF: GET OUT OF YOUR HEAD AND INTO YOUR LIFE"

BY GARY JOHN BISHOP NONFICTION

----------------------------------------------------ith the New Year comes new beginnings and resolutions. I believe February still counts for starting, or restarting, our resolve.

Self-help books are always popular and it’s a good way to get insight and perspective without burdening your friends, family or paying costly professionals. This year, I am resolved to understand the voices in my head. No, I am not schizophrenic, thank goodness, that’s a whole other ballgame – God bless those folks.

Gary John Bishop’s “Unfu*k Yourself: Get Out of Your Head and Into Your Life” (HarperOne, 209 pages) suggests there’s a lot going on in our minds that may not always be true.

More of a handbook, than a lengthy, psychological tutorial, author Bishop has refined his spiel into nine chapters.

The first page has a quote that sums up Bishop’s mission: “This is a conversational slap from the universe to wake you up to your true potential, to unfuck yourself, and get spectacularly into your life.”

W

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

ALL IN YOUR HEAD Who doesn’t want to live fully engaged in the world while being your authentic self?

Bishop begins with some statistical data and academic studies that make it clear that we, as human beings, are inclined to fucked-up thoughts. And, we are not alone in being plagued with automatic or reactionary negative thinking.

Each day, a person has over fifty thousand thoughts! These thoughts can either help or undermine us. Bishop says: “Self-talk is fucking you over and in ways you can’t even begin to image.”

The good news, as Bishop points out, is our conscious self can have a say in the significance and importance of the thoughts running heedlessly through our heads. Bishop reports that those thoughts that surface and impact us most are not “preloaded.”

The kind of talk we engage in has a profound impact on the quality of our lives. “…the language you use to describe your circumstances determines how you see, experience, and participate in them and dramatically affects how you deal with your life and confront problems both big and small.”

The chapter titles are the positive statements of thought that can help confront the deep-seated negative thoughts and redirect thinking. These

February 15 to February 21, 2018

BY HEIDI SIMMONS

seven chapters are like mantras. They are: “I Am Willing,” “I Am Wired to Win,” “I Got This,” “I Embrace Uncertainty,” “I Am Not My Thoughts; I Am What I Do,” “I Am Relentless,” “I Expect Nothing and Accept Everything.”

There are a lot of good things in every chapter. Most of it, I believe, is not new or groundbreaking, but it is the direct way the author confronts your personal thinking. He says how our thoughts can actually change the physical structure of our brain and how easy it is to let emotions determine our thoughts.

I appreciate that Bishop shares how the voices that surface in our heads is universal and part of our human condition. We are not unique when we have moments of selfdoubt, self-destruction and self-loathing.

I like the active, present tense of Bishop’s statements and I agree we each must take

responsibility for actively changing the current of our thinking. Indeed, it requires practice and mindfulness. Throughout the book, Bishop includes terrific quotations from philosophers, scholars and leaders.

It is easy to thumb through the book for a quick refresher or positive affirmations.

At times, Bishop seems to be directly addressing Millennials and the challenges they face regarding jobs and relationships.

While most of Bishop’s examples and anecdotes can be applied across the board to all ages and conditions, there were times I could not relate. But, ultimately, the message is helpful and even powerful.

Bishop also directly discusses death.

This is important. It is inevitable for us all, yet for reasons that have yet been explained to me clearly, in the United States, no one likes to write or talk about dying.

Life is short, and sometimes we need someone to give us permission to free ourselves and live a bold and courageous existence. Unfu*k Yourself delivers a direct approach to improving your life and discovering your authentic self without too much bullshit.

SAFETY TIPS

BY FIRE CHIEF SAM DIGIOVANNA

C & S HOME SERVICE TO THE RESCUE!

I

cannot count the number of times I’ve responded to a flooded condition, broken gas line, electrical problem, roof leak, etc., in my career. These are common incidents firefighters respond to in addition to the day to day fire and emergency medical calls. We’re good at what we do and I’m very proud of that!

I recently found myself on the ‘other side’ needing the same assistance I have responded to so many times. I came home late one Friday evening and was met with an unusual odor. I knew immediately something wasn’t right. I did a pass through of the house and came to the back master bedroom. Soaked with water, I sloshed through the carpet to find a water pipe burst in the wall.

I knew exactly what to do (control the utilities) but knew I had a bigger job ahead and needed help. I remember someone had highly recommended Greg Smith at C & S Home Services for small to large home repairs/rebuilds. For whatever reason I kept his number and glad I did.

I called Greg and he responded with no hesitation, no questions asked. Like a firefighter he arrived and went right to work stabilizing the problem so I could

have water/plumbing, though the house was a mess! Over the course of the several weeks, Greg and his personnel worked days and evenings to get the job finished to my satisfaction. He was on time, kept his word and was honest.

C & S Home Services (760.567.4713) came to my rescue when I needed them.

They did a phenomenal repair/rebuild job, but more than that I met a new friend. Greg is one of the nicest most respectful people you will ever meet with incredible work ethics. Thank you Greg!

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February 15 to February 21, 2018

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CLUB CRAWLER NIGHTLIFE continued from page 17 LAVENDER BISTRO; LQ; 760-564-5353 Mark CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Gregg 5-9pm Tuzzolino 5:30pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-325760-325-2323 Sunday Jam 3:30-7:30pm, 2794 Hot Rox Mikael Healy 8pm LAVENDER BISTRO; LQ; 760-564-5353 NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 T-Bone Mark Gregg 5-9pm Karaoke 8pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 760-325-2323 Mikael Healy 8pm 7:30pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 The Karaoke 8pm-1:15am Sunday Band 7:30pm THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND 7pm COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Open Mic 6pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Eddie Gee Open Mic 7pm 7pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-341COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Industry 3560 The Myx 6pm Night w/ DJ Tone 2pm-close TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Randy The Refills 4-7pm Seymon 8pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-341Darci Daniels and Reggie Vision 7pm 3560 T.B.A. 6pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 John Stanley King & Trio 6-9:30pm Mike Costley’s Jazz Show 6:30-10pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Gennine Francis THE WINE EMPORIUM; LQ; 760-565-5512 6-9pm The Might Sweet Nothings 6:30pm WILLIE BOYS; MV; 760-932-4300 Ghostlight WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230Trio 6pm 0188 Motown Mondays 6:30pm THE WINE EMPORIUM; LQ; 760-565-5512 Rob Martinez and Scott Carter 6:30pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 John Carey and Friends 6:30pm 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 TBA 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Ace Karaoke with Kiesha 9pm 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 The AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Luminators 6pm Linda Peterson 6:30pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Bill AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Bella da Ball Marx 6:30pm Dinner Revue w/ guest performers 7:30pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Meh, BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Strictly Monday 9pm Vinyl w/ DJ Richie Rich and Friends 9pm

TUE FEBUARY 20

MON FEBUARY 19

S and G

PUMPING SERVICE

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

760-404-6325

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BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Chris Lomeli 7pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 Big Rock Big Blues Jam 7pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 Stanley Butler Trio 6-10pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm CHEF GEORGE’S PICASSO LOUNGE; BD; 760-200-1768 Michael D’Angelo 7-10pm CORKTREE; PD; 760-779-0123 Michael Keeth 6-9pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill Baker 6pm DRINGK; RM; 760-888-0111 Karaoke w/ T-Bone 8pm FIRESIDE LOUNGE; PS; 760-327-1700 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Drag Queen Bingo 9pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Karaoke hosted by Phillip Moore 9pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Ted Quinn’s Open Mic Reality Show Jam 8pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Karaoke 7pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Palm Springs Sound Company MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Mikael Healy 8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8pm-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Tim Burleson 7:45pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760327-4080 Acoustic Open Mic 7pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Ladies Night w/ Rock-A-Holics 7pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Randy Seymon 8pm

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

WED FEBUARY 21

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Daniel Horn 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 DJ Day Presents: Places and Spaces 9pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Jazz Jam w/ Doug MacDonald & Friends 7pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Piano Bar 6pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 On Wednesday We Wear Black w/ DJ Sugarfree 9pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Chris Lomeli 7pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 The Smooth Brothers 7pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 Michael Keeth 6-10pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm CHEF GEORGE’S PICASSO LOUNGE; BD; 760-200-1768 Johnny Meza 7-10pm COACHELLA VALLEY BREWING CO; TP; 760-343-5973 Live and Local w/ TBA 5:308pm CORKTREE; PD; 760-779-0123 Jack Ruvio 6pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill Baker 6pm DRAUGHTSMAN;PS; 760-507-1644 Derek Jordan Gregg 8pm

ELECTRIC SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-2281199 Karaoke 7:30pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Open Mic hosted by Josh Heinz 8pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Live VJ 9pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Karaoke 7:30pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Open Mic 8pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Hot Rox MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Mikael Healey 8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8pm-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760327-4080 Roger & Friends 7pm PJ’S SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-288-1199 Karaoke w/ KJ Ginger 8pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Eddie Gee 8pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 The Myx 6:30pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 Local Artist Spolight 7pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Katheryn White 6:30pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Barbara Morrison Piano 4:30-6pm, Barry Minniefield 6:30pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Mikole Kaar 5-8pm THE WINE EMPORIUM; LQ; 760-565-5512 DJ 7pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-2300188 Valerie Geason 6:30pm

HADDON LIBBY

G

iven the volatility that has come upon the stock and bond markets in recent weeks, I would like to share with you a few tips that have served me well: First and foremost, never let your emotions determine your actions. Use information and intellect. While markets can behave in illogical ways, there is usually a reason. While your gut feeling or emotions may be right, it is more often wrong. Many algorithms used by professional traders factor in illogical actions by retail investors in an attempt to profit from that behavior.

Avoid most real estate investment trusts (REITs). Have you ever read one of their prospectuses? The large dividends that most REITs pay are actually a return of your principal that you then get to pay taxes on.

Ever hear of the term, ‘putting lipstick on a pig’? That is what those dividends are for many REITs. Avoid micro-cap stocks. Micro-caps have $1 billion or less in a market capitalization and should be avoided because that the pool of buyers is smaller, meaning that a stock price can fall very quickly for no reason whatsoever or due to the actions of only a few shareholders.

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

February 15 to February 21, 2018

PINK SHEETS & LIPSTICKED PIGS

The daily volumes for any stock that you own need to be high enough to support a tight bid-ask spread. Restated in English, there should be many buyers and sellers of any stock that you own. One thing that is a good indication that the stock has many buyers and seller is a narrow range between the price that someone will sell the stock at and the price that someone will buy it at. If a spread is only a penny or two, then that would suggest that there are many buyers and sellers.

Never own penny stocks. A penny stock is any stock under $5.00. Daily volumes are typically controlled by a few large holders with far better information on the company than you.

Never own a pink sheet stock. Period! Pink sheets typically do not have audited financial statements and many never report financials.

How can you invest in something when you do not know its financial condition?

Something that often happens with pink sheet and penny stocks is the ‘the dead cat bounce’ - the stock price briefly goes up after a steep decline only to continue its descent.

The cause of a dead bounce is typically a mix of speculators covering their positions and casual investors incorrectly sensing a bottom.

This brings up a very important lesson when investing that applies to everyday life…

Never try to catch a falling knife as you might get cut. Investors with inadequate knowledge as to the reasons for the decline often get cut when sensing a bottom.

Sometimes the best thing that you can do is nothing.

The best way to beat the professional traders is to buy stocks to hold longterm. Next week is a long time to many professional trading firms. As such, you have the advantage of time.

This last tip is probably the best one that few advisors will ever tell you: when seeking out investment advice, find an investment advisor who is also a fiduciary. An investment advisor who is also a fiduciary is your best chance to get advice that is not biased by the size of the commission check that the broker/ advisor can get from selling you that mutual fund, annuity, private placement, hedge fund or other commission-heavy product.

Fiduciaries must put your best interest ahead of their interest or that fiduciary and their firm can get in big trouble.

As many advisors will say that they are fiduciaries when they are not, get their statements in writing. Only 6% of all investment advisors are fiduciaries and virtually none are brokers.

Haddon Libby is the Founder and Managing Partner of Winslow Drake Investment Management and can be reached at HLibby@WinslowDrake.com. For more information, please visit www.WinslowDrake. com.

test. However, this does not mean your rights were compromised if you failed a breath test or a sobriety test at a checkpoint.

There are procedures and guidelines that all officers at checkpoints must follow for the DUI test to be valid.

If you drank and drove you clearly made the biggest mistake of your life. Don’t make another mistake by hiring an attorney from out of town who does not know the local DMV Hearing Officers/DA’s and Judges.

The newest mistake you make is not taking down your social media because you are providing the DA’s with all the information they would need to learn about you and your friends. You mistakenly allow them to contact your friends and read about drinking issues that you post on Facebook.

But if you do Drink and Drive, you are mistaken if you do not realize we also SUE Drunk Drivers that injure our clients.

PLEASE DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE, CALL A TAXI OR UBER.........IT IS A LOT CHEAPER THAN HAVING AN ARREST OR ACCIDENT AND CALLING ME.........SO DRIVE SOBER OR GET PULLED OVER DALE GRIBOW “TOP LAWYER” California’s Prestige Magazine PALM SPRINGS LIFE: DUI 2011-18 “TOP LAWYER”- Inland Empire Magazine Nov 2016 PERFECT 10.0 AVVO Peer Rating

DALE GRIBOW ON THE LAW

MISTAKES DUI DRIVERS MAKE

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he Indio Court is inundated with DUI’s cases every February to April because of the season’s Holiday and Super Bowl party DUI arrests that are set for court a month or two after the arrest date.

Drivers mistakenly believe they were not drunk and thus they should win their case believing they didn’t deserve the DUI. You only have to be impaired, not drunk.

If you have been drinking there is good chance you will be arrested. The first mistake is drivers do not realize it is not the number of drinks but rather the amount of alcohol in each drink that is determinative as well as one’s weight.

It is a mistake for drivers to talk to the officers. Silence is Golden/Handcuffs are Silver. Drivers should be respectful and courteously explain their lawyer Dale Gribow advised them not to talk without his ok. Ask them to contact me 760-837-7500/ dale@dalegribowlaw.com. Explain that if Gribow ok’s it, then you are happy to talk.

Make me the bad guy so you become the good guy.

Drivers are not aware the Field Sobriety (FST) and Breath Test at the scene are optional (unless you are under 21 or are on probation). They mistakenly believe they have to take the walk the line, finger to nose, reciting the alphabet backwards and other so called sobriety tests.

Drivers are mistaken if they do not politely explain they want to cooperate

with law enforcement and are willing to do anything that is mandatory. They should explain they understand the FST tests are elective and they elect not to take them, but are happy to cooperate and take a Blood test.

DUI drivers mistakenly believe they merely have to appear in court on the date on the bottom of the arrest citation. A DUI kicks in two proceedings, the court and DMV. Drivers are mistaken when they do not realize that DMV must be contacted within 10 days and a Stay should be requested by their lawyer. Not asking a STAY on the suspension, is another mistake as their license will suspended after 30 days. The Stay provides a temporary license which is good until the DMV matter is resolved.

Drivers mistakenly believe they will never encounter a checkpoint or saturation patrols. Most drivers have heard of checkpoints but not saturation patrols.

Both have to meet the proper lawful and constitutional protocols to succeed. The idea behind a saturation patrol is that a large number of law enforcement officers will “make their presence known” by conducting stops, targeting inebriated, distracted, aggressive and speeding drivers, as well as those with seatbelt or cell phone violations.

You are mistaken if you think the officer must have probable cause to stop you.

At a sobriety checkpoint anybody can be stopped and requested to take a breath

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February 15 to February 21, 2018

GOOD GRUB

T

he Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival kicks off Friday, February 16th, through Sunday, February 25th in Indio. In honor of the festival, we give homage to one of the tastiest Date creations around, the Date Shake.

The Date Festival's purpose is to celebrate the harvest of the Date Palm. The fair started out slowly in the 1920’s, and then years later, Riverside County took over the reins and purchased the grounds that the festival takes place on this very day. The fair grew from there. The Coachella Valley is a mammoth producer of dates, providing close to 100% of the sweet fruit to our nation. So a large scale fair to give the little fruit props, is more than appropriate.

There are a variety of recipes that incorporate the superfood, which we know here in the Coachella Valley as our own neighborhood Date. I can think of at least one that I enjoy making myself, especially during the holidays which is the delicious Bacon wrapped Dates, filled with Goat Cheese and a sliver of Serrano Chili. Yum!! But the mainstay Date concoction that tourists and locals love equally is hands down the Date Shake. It’s caramel, ultra-sweet flavor and slightly heavy texture, makes the Date Shake a distinctive food of the Coachella Valley.

The Date is not just a sweet little fruit, it’s a fruit that packs a wallop of nutrition.

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www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

SHAKE THAT DATE!

The Date is high in potassium and fiber, and contains no sodium, cholesterol or fat. Its elevated natural sugar content makes it a powerful producer of energy. This makes the fruit a wonderful companion when doing outdoor activities such as hiking, as it is compact, and an all-encompassing food.

There are a wide variety of Dates, from the meaty Medjool, to the Honey Dates. But it is the Deglet Noor Dates, which are popular in the making of the Date Shake, mostly because of their supple skin and caramel flavor. Pillar Date Shake providers such as the famous Shield’s Date Garden in Indio (www.shieldsdategarden.com), and Hadley Fruit Orchards (www.hadleyfruitorchards. com) retail shop in Cabazon, utilize this Date variety for their shakes.

BY DENISE ORTUNO For Shields Date Garden, which was founded in 1924, they dry the Deglet Noors and crystalize them. Then later, the crystals are rehydrated and made into a paste that is blended with vanilla ice cream and milk.

Hadley Fruit Orchards, founded in 1931, chops their Dates, blending them with milk and vanilla ice cream for a lumpier shake.

For added shake fun, add banana, nutmeg or cinnamon to your Hadley’s Date Shake.

If you want to enjoy a Date Shake in a more traditional Ice Cream setting, then try out Great Shakes (www.greatshakes.com), located on Palm Canyon in Palm Springs. This shake haven has almost 30 shake flavors, such as Key Lime Pie (Key lime juice, crushed graham pie crust, clover honey), Blueberry Hill (blueberries, fresh lemon, touch of lavender), Nutter Butter (peanut butter ice cream and swirl, touch of honey, crushed Nutter-Butter cookies) plus many more. Their

Date Shakes are stated to NOT be made with Date crystals and you can even add walnuts for added texture. Their ice cream is house created, made with fresh, simple ingredients and antibiotic/hormone free.

There are many ways to delight in and celebrate our celebrity fruit the Date here in the Coachella Valley. But there is no cooler way than to indulge in the creamy Date Shake creation. Whether it be at Shields, Hadley or Great Shakes, make sure to get your Date Shake on this Date harvest season!

SPORTS SCENE

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

February 15 to February 21, 2018

BY FLINT WHEELER

MARCH MADNESS BETTING TIDBITS..

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he Super Bowl is yesterday’s news, which means the next big event on the sports betting calendar is March Madness.

While we’re still a month away from the college basketball postseason, “Bracketologists” are closely studying the potential field of 68 teams trying to figure out which NCAA programs have what it takes to crack the opening weekend of the Big Dance and go deep into the tournament.

If you’re switching gears from the gridiron to the college hardwood, and trying to get a leg up on your bracket pool this March, here are some facts and figures to look out for before Selection Sunday: Non-conference competition More and more importance is being put on the non-conference slate of games, with the Selection Committee taking those foreign foes into account more than ever.

This is especially true for small-conference powers like Gonzaga, who don’t get much push back in conference play and must load up their opening schedule with bigname basketball giants to boost their NCAA appeal.

REAL ESTATE

If you’re looking for a bracket sleeper this March, go all the way back to November and December when teams were taking on non-conference competition. You can see which teams are battle tested and capable of a NCAA stunner.

Current form This is probably a handicapping staple, no matter what sport you’re betting. In college basketball, coaches are always working toward the postseason, trying to get their guys to peak at the perfect time.

We’ve seen mid-tier teams catch fire in their conference tournaments and roll right through the bracket – like UConn in 2011 – so momentum is one thing you’ll want to keep in mind.

Also, take a look at a team’s overall success throughout the season. Did they struggle early on with new young players rounding into their roles or was a top talent injured or suspended to start the season?

As teams get experience and heal up, they can become significantly improved in the final stretch of the regular season.

Strength of Schedule and RPI In the ramp up to the NCAA tournament, you’re going to hear a bunch of acronyms: RPI, SOS, KenPom ratings. I’m sure they add a few more of these things every March. These are statistical measurements used to grade teams beyond just their win/ loss record.

I’m not going to dive into the math behind these equations – you can easily Google that stuff – but make sure you know what goes into these ratings. In a nutshell, they account for a team’s winning

PROPERTY OF THE WEEK

BY ALEXANDRA MIKLOSOVA

M

y name is Alexandra Miklosova, and I have been in real estate here in the Coachella Valley for over 10 years. Currently, I am a Realtor and Creative Marketing Strategist for Lux Box Agency and I absolutely love what I do! I love our valley, I love real estate and I love social media! Out of the love and my passion I have created a collaborative online social media platform to connect homebuyers, homeowners, investors and real estate professionals. Welcome to Palm Springs Open House!

Every other week, I am here to provide you with valuable real estate information,

market update, current listings and open houses throughout our beautiful Coachella Valley in a very fun and interactive way.

Every week I search the Palm Springs area real estate market for the best possible deals for my clients. I will share them with you along with 3 reasons why you should be curious about that property too! Let’s dive in. Here is my “Pick of The Week”!

I have selected 143 SANDPIPER Street in Palm Desert.

Profile: Condo | PUD 2Br | 2 Bath 1415 SqFt Listed at: $390,000

percentage, the winning percentage of its opponents, and the winning percentage of its opponents’ opponents. Good thing these ratings do all number crunching for you.

Superstar factor Basketball is unlike many other team sports in that a game can often be determined simply by the performance of a single player. With the one-and-done rule still in place, the NCAA at least gets one year with the most promising pro prospects in the country… well, unless your crazy father ships you off to play in Lithuania (See‘Ball’ Family).

Team’s with pro-ready talent often rise to the top during March Madness, when those budding superstars step into the national spotlight. While many think experience and upperclassmen are the most valuable assets come tourney time, those things will only take you so far.

Talent can trump all, so get to know the best players in the country and if they’re capable to carrying a Cinderella deep into the bracket.

Here are the 3 reasons why you should put this home on your House Hunt Wishlist!

In the spirit of Modernism week, there isn’t a better choice than seeing this completely renovated Sandpiper condo.

It has all the signature elements of a midcentury modern home including high ceilings, clerestory windows, and even solar lite tubes to let in an incredible amount of natural light. As you walk through this incredible find, you will feel like you are in a luxurious resort suite with a mid-century modern vibe.

Another great benefit for purchasing this condo is that it comes fully furnished at this price and if you missed out on booking your

vacation rental for the season, this is your chance to have your own Desert retreat! All you need to bring is your shorts, swimsuit, and toothbrush and you can start enjoying the paradise lifestyle, knowing you made a great investment.

I know you think I will choose LOCATION for my 3rd reason because this condo is steps away from El Paseo but you would be wrong. I have to say, that the enchanting private back patio surrounded by lush landscaping had me imagining the perfect morning coffee time and left a lasting impression on me. I didn’t want to leave and neither will you!

Grab a cup of coffee and read my biweekly column here in CV Weekly or join the conversation online in our Facebook group + Instagram at @PalmSpringsOpenHouse Feel free to give me a call with any real estate related question or request a FREE marketing strategy consultation and allow me to help you sell your home! Don’t forget I can show you 143 Sandpiper or any other home here in the Desert!

Alexandra Miklosova 760.668.9784 CalBRE No: 0177415 Listing courtesy of Nathan Moulton

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February 15 to February 21, 2018

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

CANNABIS CORNER MEDICAL CANNABIS THE VALENTINE GIFT THAT KEEPS GIVING

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alentine’s Day was started in 270 AD when Emperor Claudius II executed two men with the name Valentine in different years on February 14th. Instead of showering our lover or prospective lover with chocolates, flowers, and candlelight dinners, here are some suggestions for gifts to your wife, husband, son or daughter, mother or father.

Give the gift of life by giving up smoking cigarettes, which not only leads to lung disease, but is directly responsible for heart and vascular disease. Switch to smoking cannabis.

In 2012, the AMA published a landmark study that followed more than 5,000 patients longitudinally over 20 years. The results of the study were somewhat surprising, described below. (Addict Behav. 2013 Sep;38(9):2433-6. doi: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2013.03.011. Epub 2013 Apr 1).

Although many had assumed that regular exposure to marijuana smoke would result in pulmonary function damage, similar to the deleterious effects seen with regular tobacco smoke exposure, the study convincingly demonstrated that regular exposure to marijuana smoke did not adversely affect lung function.

Even more surprising, regular marijuana

smokers demonstrated increased total lung function capacity. Cannabis is recommended for patients with chronic obstructive lung disease. THC is known to be a bronchodilator.

CBD is known to be anti-ischemic and can reduce the addictive craving for smoking.

Absorb CBD 25:1, per their website, absorb. biz/product/high-cbd-pen is a great way to engage in the act of smoking and actually have it be beneficial! The effects of the vape are instant to the brain making it superior for headaches, bad moods, and for helping with addictive behavior. One of the coolest uses we have heard yet of vaping high CBD is that it really helps people with addictions. It really helps people quit smoking cigarettes. There is no psychotropic high with this ratio of CBD, yet it should release serotonin and melatonin

LOCAL BUSINESS VENUS DE FIDO:

BY RUTH HILL R.N.

(a property shown about high-quality CBD).

Absorb strain of ACDC has a beautiful flavor (terpene) line up.

For those whom smoking is not an option try Reset a full spectrum extract with a 1:1 ratio of CBD:THC, made by www. makingyoubetterbrands.com this product is taken daily as a maintenance dose for prevention. THC, THCa, CBD, and CBDa are all known to have anti-cancer, antioxidant properties. Include in your box of candies a bottle of Fiddlers Green THCa:CBDa. fiddlersgreens.com.

A reference for cannabis use in cancer is: (The endocannabinoid system and cancer: therapeutic implication, Guindon, Josée, et al British Journal of Pharmacology, 2011, 163: 1447-1467). I cannot stress enough the side effects of cannabis are dose dependent. A starting dose of TCH is 2.5mg for naïve users.

Long time users may need 20 or 30mg if they develop tolerance.

Naïve users ingesting recreational cannabis can experience angina as a typical joint will contain 30% THC. CBD is a known antidote for modulating the effects of THC. If you are a regular smoker of cannabis it would be wise to have on hand for yourself or guest, a pure CBD product of 5, or 10, or 15mg of CBD/

drop or/spray. CBD reverses the paranoia, palpitations, cardiovascular and stroke effects of an overdose of THC. No CBD? Eat some peppercorns instead.

Cannabis is purchased with cash. No insurance reimburses for cannabis. Giving medical cannabis to your mother, father or spouse is a splendid Valentines gift. Accompany your Valentine card with a promise to make out a Will and/or Advanced Directive for Health Care.

Valentine’s Day is a special time of year when we share our unique love for someone.

While the commercialization of Valentine’s Day focuses on romance, lets bring tidings to our other loves in our lives. Those who we cherish daily for the calming presence they bring deserve health wise attention.

The chocolates will melt. The flowers will wilt. The dinner may be eaten in an hour. But a living will, an advanced directive, or defraying the cost of medical cannabis for our parents will be a lasting reminder of how much we appreciate their unconditional love.

Contact Ruth Hill at hilruth@gmail.com for medical cannabis consultations.

BY LOLA ROSSI

A NEW ENTERTAINMENT VENUE AND EXTRAORDINARY SPA

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few weeks ago, I met with Lorie Loftis of Venus De Fido in Drive in Palm Desert. Our meeting was mainly to discuss the upcoming Entertainment Schedule for February, but the venue is so much more.

“I want to bring good music to people, good dancing and good times to remember,” said Loftis.

They have Happy Hour everyday Monday through Thursday from 4 – 6 p.m. with different themes; “Make over Mondays” have Spa specials with complimentary Spa demos; “Trunk Show Tuesday” with some of the Ladies from the featured non-profit as models; “Wine Down Wednesday” with guitarist Joe Baldino; and “Yappy Hour Thursday” with Members and Guests bringing their pets to socialize.

Enjoy Salsa Dancing every Tuesday night with a Salsa Dance Party at 8 p.m. on the first Friday of the month. They invite their entire class to participate and also, the general public.

Thursday night features Country Line Dance Classes with a shuttle that goes to Fantasy Springs, where they can continue dancing the new dance steps they learn. Then there is “Dance Nite Friday”. On Friday, February 16, from 6 to 9 p.m., entertainer Michael D’Angelo is performing with guest Jimmy Street along with Dance Instructor Carl Davis.

On Friday, February 23, it’s The 70s Dance Party with Sheer Pleasure, featuring Rob Carter and Lola Rossi with Denise Motto and Doug Ledesma, performing from 6 until 9 p.m. Carter, who came out for Valentine’s

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Day performances, is from Detroit and is heading back on Sunday. This will be our last performance together, until next year. We hope to see his friends and fans stop by.

During our interview, I discovered this “one of a kind” venue was conceived by Loftis and her mother, Lindi Biggi, mainly because whenever they would take their dogs to the groomer, they found they had one to four hours to wait, while the pets they love were being groomed. For most pet owners, that is a good time to run errands like go to the Post Office, or get a massage; or a facial; or have their hair done; or a manicure and pedicure; or have lunch; and maybe go shopping. When they realized they would have to go all over town to accomplish these things, they thought how nice it would be to have all these services in one location; a place not just to have their dogs groomed, but a place for them to pamper themselves, a place where they both could enjoy the day. What a concept…

With the name Venus De Fido, many people think it is just a dog grooming place, possibly because Lindi Biggi was the Founder of Loving All Animals, a non-profit organization that continues to have fund-raising events to promote no kill shelters and pet adoption.

They have placed thousands of dogs and cats since they started this noble venture.

Venus De Fido took a few years to complete, but was very well planned and is open to everyone, not just pet owners. For our beloved four-legged friends they offer

grooming with special treatments for pups; cage free daycare in their dog park; training classes and the Beastro Pet Boutique offering supplies and accessories including the finest pet foods, treats and toys.

Their Staff is filled with top notch people who offer a wide variety of services, and then some… They have over 30 different sub-contractors who are masters at what they do. They have the Wellness Spa; a Retail Boutique with hand-picked items; yoga and tai chi; Massage and Body Treatments; Aromatherapy; Skin Care; Fitness Center; and the Fresh Fruit and Juice Bar at The Café; Concierges and Memberships; The Valley’s only International Regulation Squash Court; Heated Salt Bed; and the Himalayan Salt Cave, where I spent most of the hour interviewing Loftis, which now has become one of my favorite places.

We walked into the Salt Cave where they brought in over 6 tons of Himalayan Sea Salt in bags and rock to create a relaxing beach area with sea salt that feels like coarse sand.

“Himalayan Sea Salt has purification properties in it,” said Loftis, “Fungus and bacteria cannot grow in a salt environment.” Our bodies are made of approximately 65% water and the salt is attracted to the water. The halogenator puts tiny dust particles of salt into the room and the molecules of salt go into our respiratory system as we take deep breaths through our nose and our mouth. This is great for people with allergies and for those wanting better overall health.

“They discovered over 200 hundred years ago that Polish salt miners never got sick, they never lost their hair and they had beautiful complexions. A study was done in Europe and they discovered Salt Cave Therapy was very beneficial for you and it did not have any counter indications; anybody could do it,” shared Loftis. The treatment is $45 for a 50 minute session; however, the benefits are remarkable. “Some stores sell Himalayan Salt Lamps with a 3 watt bulb which heats the rock and emits negative ions, something our bodies need.”

Venus De Fid is, located at 73-600 Alessandro Drive in Palm Desert. Call (760) 834-7070 for more info.

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FREE WILL ASTROLOGY

Week of February 15

ARIES (March 21-April 19): At 12,388 feet, Mount Fuji is Japan’s highest peak. If you’re in good shape, you can reach the top in seven hours. The return trip can be done in half the time -- if you’re cautious. The loose rocks on the steep trail are more likely to knock you off your feet on the way down than on the way up. I suspect this is an apt metaphor for you in the coming weeks, Aries. Your necessary descent may be deceptively challenging. So make haste slowly! Your power animals are the rabbit and the snail.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): In 1903, Orville and Wilbur Wright made a few short jaunts through the air in a flying machine they called the Flyer. It was a germinal step in a process that ultimately led to your ability to travel 600 miles per hour while sitting in a chair 30,000 feet above the earth. Less than 66 years after the Wright Brothers’ breakthrough, American astronauts landed a space capsule on the moon.

They had with them a patch of fabric from the left wing of the Flyer. I expect that during the coming weeks, you will be climaxing a long-running process that deserves a comparable ritual. Revisit the early stages of the work that enabled you to be where you are now.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): In 2006, five percent of the world’s astronomers gathered at an international conference and voted to demote Pluto from a planet to a “dwarf planet.” Much of the world agreed to honor their declaration. Since then, though, there has arisen a campaign by equally authoritative astronomers to restore Pluto to full planet status. The crux of the issue is this: How shall we define the nature of a planet? But for the people of New Mexico, the question has been resolved.

State legislators there formally voted to regard Pluto as a planet. They didn’t accept the demotion.

I encourage you to be inspired by their example, Gemini. Whenever there are good arguments from opposing sides about important matters, trust your gut feelings. Stand up for your preferred version of the story.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Ray Bradbury’s dystopian bestseller Fahrenheit 451 was among the most successful of the 27 novels he wrote. It won numerous awards and has been adopted into films, plays, and graphic novels. Bradbury wrote the original version of the story in nine days, using a typewriter he rented for 20 cents per hour. When his publisher urged him to double the manuscript’s length, he spent another nine days doing so. According to my reading of the planetary configurations, you Cancerians now have a similar potential to be surprisingly efficient and economical as you work on an interesting creation or breakthrough -- especially if you mix a lot of play and delight into your labors.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Poet Louise Glück has characterized herself as “afflicted with longing yet incapable of forming durable attachments.” If there is anything in you that even partially fits that description, I have good news: In the coming weeks, you’re likely to feel blessed by longing rather than afflicted by it. The foreseeable future will also be prime time for you to increase your motivation and capacity to form durable attachments. Take full advantage of this fertile grace period!

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): In 2004, a man named Jerry Lynn tied a battery-operated alarm clock to a string and dangled it down a vent in his house. He was hoping that when the alarm sounded, he would get a sense of the best place to drill a hole in his wall to run a wire for his TV. But the knot he’d made wasn’t perfect, and the clock slipped off and plunged into an inaccessible spot behind the wall. Then, every night for 13 years, the alarm rang for a minute.

The battery was unusually strong! A few months ago, Lynn decided to end the mild but constant irritation. Calling on the help of duct specialists, he retrieved the persistent clock. With this story as your inspiration, and in accordance with astrological omens, I urge you Virgos to finally put an end to your equivalent of the maddening alarm clock. (Read the story: tinyurl.com/alarmclockmadness.)

© Copyright 2018 Rob Brezsny

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Was Napoléon Bonaparte an oppressor or liberator? The answer is both. His work in the world hurt a lot of people and helped a lot of people. One of his more magnanimous escapades transpired in June 1798, when he and his naval forces invaded the island of Malta. During his six-day stay, he released political prisoners, abolished slavery, granted religious freedom to Jews, opened 15 schools, established the right to free speech, and shut down the Inquisition.

What do his heroics have to do with you? I don’t want to exaggerate, but I expect that you, too, now have the power to unleash a blizzard of benevolence in your sphere. Do it in your own style, of course, not Napoléon’s.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): “Trees that are slow to grow bear the best fruit,” said French playwright Molière. I’m going to make that your motto for now, Scorpio. You have pursued a gradual, steady approach to ripening, and soon it will pay off in the form of big bright blooms. Congratulations on having the faith to keep plugging away in the dark! I applaud your determination to be dogged and persistent about following your intuition even though few people have appreciated what you were doing.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): The growth you can and should foster in the coming weeks will be stimulated by quirky and unexpected prods. To get you started, here are a few such prods. 1. What’s your hidden or dormant talent, and what could you do to awaken and mobilize it? 2. What’s something you’re afraid of but might be able to turn into a resource? 3. If you were a different gender for a week, what would you do and what would your life be like? 4. Visualize a dream you’d like to have while you’re asleep tonight. 5. If you could transform anything about yourself, what would it be? 6.

Imagine you’ve won a free vacation to anywhere you want. Where would you go?

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): You may think you have uncovered the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. But according to my analysis of the astrological omens, you’re just a bit more than halfway there. In order to get the rest of the goods, you’ll have to ignore your itch to be done with the search. You’ll have to be unattached to being right and smart and authoritative. So please cultivate patience. Be expansive and magnanimous as you dig deeper. For best results, align yourself with poet Richard Siken’s definition: “The truth is complicated.

It’s two-toned, multi-vocal, bittersweet.”

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): The posh magazine Tatler came up with a list of fashionable new names for parents who want to ensure their babies get a swanky start in life. Since you Aquarians are in a phase when you can generate good fortune by rebranding yourself or remaking your image, I figure you might be interested in using one of these monikers as a nickname or alias. At the very least, hearing them could whet your imagination to come up with your own ideas. Here are Tatler’s chic avantgarde names for girls: Czar-Czar; Debonaire; Estonia; Figgy; Gethsemane; Power; Queenie. Here are some boys’ names: Barclay; Euripides; Gustav; Innsbruck; Ra; Uxorious; Wigbert; Zebedee.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Now that you have finally paid off one of your debts to the past, you can start window-shopping for the future’s best offers.

The coming days will be a transition time as you vacate the power spot you’ve outgrown and ramble out to reconnoiter potential new power spots. So bid your crisp farewells to waning traditions, lost causes, ghostly temptations, and the deadweight of people’s expectations. Then start preparing a vigorous first impression to present to promising allies out there in the frontier.

Homework: Confess, brag, and expostulate about what inspires you to love. Got to freewillastrology.com and click on “Email Rob.” ---------------------------------------Rob Brezsny Free Will Astrology freewillastrology@freewillastrology.com

February 15 to February 21, 2018

MIND,BODY & SPIRIT

BY BRONWYN ISON

MOVING THROUGH, NOT STUCK!

O

ften times we have heard someone say, “I’m just going through something right now.” When we hear these words, we have a tendency to refrain from inquiring what the person in experiencing. Why? Generally, we believe the person must be going through something adverse. Have you contemplated someone is going through something, translates into a poor experience?

Truly, we’re all going through something. It’s called life. Positive progression is moving through and not remaining in a stagnant posture. A friend once shared with me she was so stressed due to what was transpiring in her life. She told me her daughter and son-in-law just had their first child.

Her other daughter was getting married, plus, she was promoted in her job and this would require more responsibility. She appeared excited and stressed simultaneously. You see affirmative progression can be stressful too.

Moving through and not being stagnant is an

exceptional place to be in life. If you are seeking to move through life, you must be willing to take chances. Chances and change are often frightening. I believe being static and in the same place year after year may be more frightening than the actual change and transformation you can affect in your life. If you are the type of person who is complaining about not progressing professionally, spiritually, or physically, there is only one person to be held responsible, YOU! Fortunately, I am experiencing abundant change at the present time. I had to put all into perspective. There isn’t one circumstance in my life that is negative. It just happens to be inundating at one time. One thing for sure, I am not bored or stuck.

Are you moving through life? Or, are you immobilized? The difference boils down to, creating and affecting positive change. Or, are you able to transition? Do you continue to make excuses? It may be time to commence an evaluation of self. Take a step back and evaluate yourself personally and professionally.

Position yourself in an honest space.

Recognize whether or not you are moving forward or remaining stagnant. Growth requires a kinetic commitment. Commence moving to you true destination.

Bronwyn Ison is the owner of Evolve Yoga. e-volveyoga.com 760.564.YOGA (9642)

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February 15 to February 21, 2018

ASK THE DOCTOR

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

BY DR PETER KADILE

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

CANCER SCREENING

P

reventive medicine is something that I practice almost everyday. The guidelines for screening for cancer can change and are often confusing for everyone.

The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) is a panel of experts in primary care and preventive medicine that reviews the evidence and develops recommendations for clinical preventive services. I’d like to mention some of the screening guidelines that they currently recommend for prostate cancer, breast cancer and colon cancer.

Prostate Cancer Screening PSA or prostate specific antigen is a blood test that has been used in the past to screen for prostate cancer. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends against prostate-specific antigen (PSA)-based screening for prostate cancer. The benefits of screening with PSA do not outweigh the potential harms. The USPSTF does not make any recommendations on the use of the digital rectal exam (DRE) in the detection of prostate cancer. The USPSTF recommendations do not mean I won’t perform a PSA or DRE on a male patient but that screening considerations can be individualized based on a patient’s family history of prostate cancer and if the

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patient is having any symptoms. In general, asymptomatic men do not need to have a PSA checked.

Breast Cancer Screening Mammograms have been used to screen for any abnormal masses in the breast.

The USPSTF recommends screening mammography every two years for women age 50-74 years. Screening prior to age 50 is an individual one and consideration of abnormal physical findings and/or family history of breast cancer is important. The USPSTF states that there isn’t enough evidence for the benefit or harm for mammograms after the age of 75.

Colon Cancer Screening The United States Preventive Services Task Force recommends screening for colon cancer starting at age 50 and continuing until age 75. The USPTF found convincing evidence that screening for colon cancer between the ages of 50-75 reduces the rate of death from colon cancer. A non-invasive method for screening for colon cancer is checking a patient’s stool for blood. The invasive method would be a colonoscopy. Family history of colon cancer and a person’s symptoms would guide which test should be performed.

LIFE & CAREER COACH

LISTEN UP!

R

BY SUNNY SIMON

ecently my friend Barb and I attended a very enjoyable breakfast brunch.

Later we met up with our spouses and related stories the key note speaker told about his life. About half-way through Barb’s rendition of the speech, I realized we were both at the same meeting and yet, she heard more of the story than I. No, there is nothing wrong with my hearing. I knew exactly what happened. I lost focus.

I’ve always prided myself on being an attentive listener, but apparently I was not mindfully present. During the presenters time on stage my thoughts started to ping-pong around in my head. Shouldn’t listening to an interesting speaker be an easy singular task?

Not so according to Marty Nemko, a coach who holds a PhD from the University of California, Berkley. Marty claims listening is much tougher than people think. I believe Marty, is right.

Listening requires effort.

A friend of mine once stated “We are in the listening business. All day long we listen to others.” That’s true, our lives and jobs depend on listening, so perhaps sometimes we just get tired of all the words coming at us. Okay, but none of us can afford to get lazy about listening.

How can we improve this skill? For starters, we can either listen out of generosity or

curiosity. The latter is the better choice and Barb proved it. She had more take-aways from the speech, because she was fully engaged. So if we listen with a curious ear, we benefit because we learn.

As a reminder, listening takes discipline.

When I chose to attend the brunch I wanted to experience every part of the agenda. Don’t let yourself off the hook, discipline your mind to stay present in the moment. During the speech I allowed my mind to drift. Perhaps I was tired, or lulled into a mild stupor by the meal; however, the point is, I gave myself permission to stop listening. When you find your mind straying from the subject at hand, put yourself back in.

Talk a deep breath and refocus.

Listening can be a meditative exercise helping to bring our focus back into the moment.

Stated differently, it would have been relaxing to banish all the side bar thoughts going on in my head and just take in what was being said.

The best advice on listening is evidenced by a quote from radio host Larry King, “I remind myself every morning. Nothing I say this day will teach me anything. So if I’m going to learn, I must do it by listening.”

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

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February 15 to February 21, 2018

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February 15 to February 21, 2018

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February 15 to February 21, 2018

CANNABIS CORNER

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February 15 to February 21, 2018

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