Coachella Valley Weekly - February 25 to March 3, 2021 Vol. 9 No. 50 by CV Weekly

coachellavalleyweekly.com • February 25 to March 3, 2021 Vol.9 No.50

The Living Desert - Wildlights of Spring

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CVRep - The Revolutionists

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Robin Lake

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Knits & Knots by Stephanie

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February 25 to March 3, 2021

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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 Kirby Club Crawler Nightlife Editor Phil Lacombe Head Music Writer Noe Gutierrez Head Feature Writer Crystal Harrell Feature Writers Lisa Morgan, Rich Henrich, Heidi Simmons, Tricia Witkower, Jason Hall, Esther Sanchez Writers/Contributors: Robin Simmons, Rick Riozza, Eleni P. Austin, Craig Michaels, Janet McAfee, Bronwyn Ison, Haddon Libby, Sam DiGiovanna, Dale Gribow, Denise Ortuno Neil, Rob Brezny, Dr. Peter Kadile, Dee Jae Cox, Angela Romeo, Aaron Ramson, Lynne Tucker, Aimee Mosco, Michelle Anne Rizzio, Ruth Hill, Madeline Zuckerman Photographers Robert Chance, Laura Hunt Little, Chris Miller, Iris Hall, Esther Sanchez Videographer Kurt Schawacker Website Editor Bobby Taffolla Distribution Phil Lacombe, William Westley

CONTENTS

Trailicious Pass - Greater Palm Springs Convention & Visitor Bureau ......... 3 The Living Desert - Wildlights of Spring............................................... 5 CVRep - The Revolutionists................ 5 Consider This - Robin Lake................. 6

CVB’S TRAILICIOUS PASS HIGHLIGHTS LOCAL HIKING & DINING NEW MOBILE PASS HELPS TO SATISFY CRAVINGS

February 25 to March 3, 2021

FOR OUTDOOR ADVENTURE AND ALFRESCO EATS

arrie DeVoe considers herself a “weekend hiker,” regularly traversing the trails in the mountains surrounding our beautiful desert. For DeVoe, hiking is moving meditation, “It’s beautiful out here, stark and outer-worldly. I find it very therapeutic to be outside.” When DeVoe laced up her hiking boots last weekend, she was in for more than her usual workout. DeVoe learned about Trailicious, a free program that combines hiking, outdoor art, and dining discounts for takeout at area restaurants. In addition, participants are entered to win a weekly $50 gift card from a Greater Palm Springs eatery. This week the Greater Palm Springs Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) launched the new Trailicious Pass, a free program that all visitors and locals can sign up for. DeVoe signed up and checked in on the Boo Hoff trail on Saturday. “I got a text message afterwards saying ‘You did it!’ and that I was entered into the contest.” With the Trailicious Pass locals and visitors can enjoy hikes and bites and win prizes throughout the Coachella Valley.

Users can choose from 30 trails, filtered by experience level or location, as well as suggestions for nearby things to see like outdoor art. Additionally, the pass is loaded with discounts and specials from a variety of Greater Palm Springs restaurants for take-out or alfresco dining. Users can check in while on their hike or redeem one of the special restaurant deals featured on the pass for a chance to win a weekly prize. Suzanne Potter, a Palm Desert resident and mother of three, relies on outdoor activities more than ever with all of the time the family has been spending at home. “We’re active in Scouting so we’re no strangers to outdoor adventure,” says Potter. “I like how the hikes are categorized by level of difficulty, and that it draws attention to things I might not have known about - like outdoor art near the trails.” With hundreds of miles of hiking, biking, and horseback riding paths, Greater Palm Springs is a haven for hungry thrill-seekers. Hikers are encouraged to pick up a snack, pack a takeout picnic, or refuel after hiking

by dining alfresco on one of the many delightful patios around the desert. “We are thrilled to be launching the Trailicious Pass to encourage visitors to experience our wide open spaces and wide array of culinary options” said Colleen Pace, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer at the CVB. How It Works: 1. Go to www.TrailiciousGPS.com to register for your mobile exclusive passport with a collection of hiking trails and outdoor art installations. This will also get you special deals and discounts from participating restaurants to redeem during your visit. 2. Once you register, your passport will be instantly delivered to your phone via text and email. There’s no app to download. Your pass can be saved to your phone’s home screen for easy access. 3. When you visit a participating restaurant, present your phone to a staff member to redeem available offers. To check in to a hike, simply click “Check In” when you are within half a mile of the trail head. Find more information on the pass and some of the suggested hikes at visitgreaterpalmsprings.com/ trailiciousgps.

Knits and Knots by Stephanie ........... 9 The Vino Voice .................................. 10 Plant-Based Palate ........................... 11 Pampered Palate .............................. 11 Screeners ........................................... 12 Safety Tips - Visit The Chateau at Lake La Quinta............................... 13 Pet Place ...................................... 14-15 Haddon Libby ................................... 16 Dale Gribow ...................................... 16 Swag For The Soul ............................ 17 Free Will Astrology ........................... 17

February 25 to March 3, 2021

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February 25 to March 3, 2021

THE LIVING DESERT ANNOUNCES WILDLIGHTS OF SPRING EVENT DATES

TICKETS ON SALE NOW FOR THE NEW WILDLIGHTS OF SPRING

Adventures. A portion of the African Safari loop will be open for guests to see cheetahs, zebras, African wild dogs, and other animals. The event also will feature new music for the light zones – including the Tunnel of Lights, Dazzling Gift, and Discovery Center. Guests can take a spin on the carousel and make s’mores around a fire, for an additional fee. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase. “The community is invited to join us for the return one of the desert’s favorite traditions – just during a different season,” said Mark Miller, Director of Park Services and Guest Relations at The Living Desert. “We expect to sell out all dates, so guests are encouraged to get their tickets early.” For the continued safety of guests and staff, The Living Desert has implemented numerous precautions including required advanced reservations, limited guest capacity, required face coverings for all

COACHELLA VALLEY REPERTORY – WHITTIER TRUST PRESENTS: THE REVOLUTIONISTS,

EVENTS

THEATRE

BY LAUREN GUNDERSON; A COMEDIC QUARTET FOR THIS ONE-NIGHT ONLY STAGED READING

and how we actually go about changing the world. Returning to CVRep’s virtual stage to direct this performance is Charles Pasternak (Hamlet, Man of Destiny). In December, Pasternak directed CVRep’s staged reading of William Shakespeare’s, Much Ado About Nothing. Pasternak has comprised an allfemale cast with the hope the audience will have a thrilling experience watching this staged reading come to life. “I hope they'll

It) as Olympe de Gouges, Laetitia Hollard (A Christmas Carol, Shrek the Musical) as Marianne Angelle, and Brittany Pirozzoli (Hamlet, Candide, Madwoman of Chaillot) as Charlotte Corday. Joining these returning actors will be Abbey Siegworth (Electra, Abigail) as Her Majesty, Queen Marie Antoinette. To continue CVRep’s mission of providing educational, entertaining and thoughtprovoking presentations, CVRep is offering Theatre Thursdays, a weekly, virtual entertaining and learning opportunity. All presentations are offered via Zoom to observe social distancing guidelines.

February 25 to March 3, 2021

CONSIDER THIS

n a perfect world, the name Robin Lane would be as recognizable as Chrissie Hynde, Deborah Harry, Joan Jett, as well as the Wilson sisters of Heart, The Go-Go’s and The Bangles. Back in the late ‘70s and early ‘80s, Robin fronted Robin Lane & The Chartbusters, but that’s not where her story begins. The L.A. native was born in 1947 and grew up in Los Angeles on the margins of showbiz. Her dad, Ken Lane was Dean Martin’s pianist and wrote his signature song, “Everybody Loves Somebody.” Although she wasn’t close to her dad, she shared his musical talent. Robin came of age during the Swinging ‘60s and experienced the infamous Sunset Strip scene first-hand. During that era, seminal L.A. Rock bands like the Byrds, the Doors, Buffalo Springfield and Love ruled the Strip, making their mark in clubs like the Whisky A-GoGo, Ciro’s and Pandora’s Box. Her friendship with the band Crazy Horse resulted in an association with Neil Young. That’s her, adding backing vocals to the song “Round And Round” from Neil and Crazy Horse’s first collaboration, Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere. At this point she was married to British guitarist Andy Summers, who made his bones in bands like Zoot Money’s Big Roll Band, Soft Machine and a recalibrated version of Eric Burdon’s Animals. The couple divorced in 1970, and by the end of that decade, through the mid ‘80s, Andy was topping the charts as guitarist for The Police. By 1977, Robin had relocated to Boston. A nascent singer-songwriter, she arrived armed with a clutch of original songs. She quickly realized that the sounds of Punk and New Wave had easily coalesced, creating a thriving music scene. Local acts like The Neighborhoods, The Real Kids, DMZ and of course, The Cars had begun making a name for themselves. After attending a three-night stand of Cheap Trick shows, she came away inspired, and determined to infiltrate that world. She immersed herself in the trailblazing sounds of Television, Dwight Twilley and The Flamin’ Groovies. On the strength of her protean songs, Robin had already secured a record deal, now she just needed a band. She quickly enlisted hometown heroes like bassist Scott Baerenwald, guitarists Asa Brebner and Leroy Radcliffe, as well as drummer Tim Jackson. They settled on the unwieldy moniker of Robin Lane & The Chartbusters, as a sideways homage to Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers. Robin’s songs served as a template, some she abandoned altogether, others became retrofit Rockers. The Chartbusters sound was a potent distillation of a plethora of influences: Punk, New Wave, British Invasion and a soupcon of Folk. Ironically, the label, Private Stock, (who, despite releasing Blondie’s debut, was best known for championing Soft Rock AM radio hits like Starbuck’s “Moonlight Feels Right,” actor/singer David Soul’s “Don’t Give Up On Us Baby” and the theme from “Laverne & Shirley,” “Making Our Dreams Come True”), were perplexed by the band’s new muscular sound. Naturally, they dropped them. Luckily, the band landed at the Warner Brothers label. Their self-titled debut arrived

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“INSTANT ALBUM” ROBIN LANE (THEROBINLANE.COM)

in 1980. Despite their huge hometown popularity, the record barely scraped the bottom of Billboard’s Top 100. As the band began prepping their sophomore effort, they issued 5 Live EP, a blistering set that underscored their live appeal. They delivered their second long-player, Imitation Life in early 1981. More expansive than the debut, it should have guaranteed the affection of their earliest admirers as well as enticing new fans. A whip-smart collection of songs, it highlighted Robin’s seductive contralto, which landed somewhere between Punk Priestess Patti Smith and Goth Goddess Siouxsie Sioux. Both records and the EP should have been big hits, but somehow their giant record label dropped the ball. Sadly, Robin & the Chartbusters amicably split in the early ‘80s. All of them continued to work in the music industry and even reunited at the turn of the 21st century to record a third album, Piece Of Mind. In the ensuing years, Robin has carved out a niche as a solo artist, releasing an EP and five full-length albums between 1984 and 2013. Recently, she and the band received some long overdue attention when Chartbuster drummer Tim Jackson directed “When Things Go Wrong,” a documentary that spotlighted the band’s compelling music and also delved into Robin’s intriguing history. Simultaneously, the record label Blixa Sounds compiled an exhaustive three CD set Robin Lane & The Chartbusters Many Years Ago. The collection confirmed that the record industry was too myopic to appreciate and champion the band. Robin aspired to be a distaff Iggy Pop, that wasn’t in the cards. Still, the sound she and the band created seemed to mirror the commercial appeal of Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers. Recently, Robin released her sixth album, Instant Record. The 16-song set cherry picks tracks recorded over the last 30 years. It gets off to an insouciant start with “It’s Your World.” Haughty, almost bratty vocals are matched by chiming guitars, tensile bass lines and a rock-steady beat. Although this song was written a couple of decades ago, it’s tempting to think the opening verse is aimed at a certain tangerine-hued despot recently removed from power; “Stuck in your ivory tower, is this the year of the plague, can’t get away from here/What are you looking for, does it run away when you come near?” Switch out “ivory tower” for “Palm Beach Golf Course,” and it’s suddenly au courant. Whiplash electric guitars intertwine with winsome acoustic notes as sharp, sardonic lyrics take this craven windbag to task, as the world begins to pass him by; “People used to come to you, now there’s nobody there for you when the day is through/ That they just pass you by, don’t it come, don’t it come as a big surprise.” Ringing acoustic guitars spiral on the outro, taking the sting out of the lyrical rebuke. Although Robin’s best-known songs hew pretty closely to a Punk/New Wave/Power Pop paradigm, left to her own devices, as a solo artist she exhibits a wider range. Take the strummy acoustic Folk of “City Of Lights,” which pays homage to the legacy of Robert F.

BY ELENI P. AUSTIN

Kennedy. Equally woke is “Gaps In Justice,” a dirge-like anthem that denounces the forprofit prison system. Then there’s the moody magnificence of “Something’s Wrong,” which asks us to recognize that “There’s something wrong with opportunity, when it don’t help someone like me, someone like you would know it too if you stand in my shoes, there’s something wrong.” The plain-spoken “It Makes No Sense” shares some musical DNA with John Denver’s “Leaving On A Jet Plane.” The wryly lyrics reflect on a wrecked romance with revelatory results; “You’ve given me back my joy, you’ve given me back my happiness, everything I ever was before was all because of you/And then one day you were gone, and I didn’t know what I should do, everywhere there were reminders of you, and it made me feel so sad.” Meanwhile, the personal becomes political on the Jazzy “Benjamin.” Much like Joni Mitchell’s “Little Green,” this song recounts an unplanned pregnancy that results in adoption. Heartbreaking lyrics implore the prospective parents; “Spend a little time with Benjamin, fill his head with music of the world, don’t let him know his mother couldn’t give him all the love he’d need to grow.” Several years ago, when her daughter was spending her summers there, Robin became involved with Camp Runoia, teaching a songwriting class at the Maine Summer Camp. Working with budding songwriters, she contoured new melodies to fit their original lyrics. She has included three here. “Leaving You” weaves plaintive fiddle into a tapestry of burnished guitars, knotty bass lines blurred keys and a tick-tock beat. Bittersweet lyrics bid a tender farewell; “I can’t believe I’m leaving you, where does the time go/You’re beautiful, you’re kind and you’re my best friend…and when I go, I’ll remember you, I hope you remember me.” “Special To Me” is an elastic little Rocker that that matches marauding bass fills and swirly guitars to a tilt-a-whirl rhythm. The lyrics pay tribute to a mentor and friend; “You’ve guided me through my life, you’re so special to me.”On the break the song drifts into a surprisingly trippy, Psychedelic groove. Slightly more lighthearted, is “Kitty Kat.” Sly and suitably feline, the mood and melody lean closer to Blossom Dearie than, say, Blondie. Lyrics pledge unconditional love to a sphinx-y friend with “Long, thin whiskers, big brown eyes, pointy ears and your meow cries/ Even if I have to change your litter box, even if

your cat food smells, I love you, I think you can tell I love you.” The best tracks here unfurl almost one after the next. “Military Man” is cloaked in Countrified acoustic guitars, brittle bass, tart, electric riffs and pulsating beat. Although it was written nearly 30 years ago, lyrics like “I am a soldier fighting the war, keeping the enemy from our door, if you need protection, I’m your friend, but that’ll depend on the color of your skin” capture the blatant and unrepentant hatred that had a stranglehold on this country up until a few weeks ago. Well, almost. Both “Not So Bad” and “From Goddess To Doormat” seem to be recall foundering romantic relationships. On the former, Robin revisits her Laurel Canyon roots. Jangly guitars and cracked Country fiddle give the tune a rustic Byrdsy/Buffalo Springfield feel. Lyrics like “I see mountains that touch the sky, where I want to live and die,” evince a cinematic quality that mirrors the arrangement’s wideopen vistas. The latter echoes touchstones like Carole King’s “Tapestry” and Joni Mitchell’s “Court And Spark,” Stripped-down and spare, this piano-driven lament is accented by dissonant harmonies. Cogent lyrics speak to losing oneself in a lopsided relationship; “Piece by piece relinquished, what I’d never give in a day, only I can’t find myself, how did love get away.” Self-worth is replaced by codependence. Well, almost. Finally, “Passport To Paradise” displays a gossamer Girl Group shimmer. Stacked harmonies soar over pinwheeling guitars, spidery bass and spring-loaded beat. Sunny lyrics ask us to risk the safety of solitude and gamble on love; “Safe and sound in your world, where no one can find you, you watch yourself growing bitter, take time to consider/ Let the one who loves you, be your passport to paradise, feel his arms around you, he’s your passport to paradise.” Other interesting songs include the smoky and subterranean charms of “Banana,” along with the playful “Please Like Me,” which gently pokes fun at former neighbor (and exFlying Nun) Sally Field’s famous declaration at the Academy Awards. The album closes with a final Camp Runoia collaboration, “Casey, Bye Bye,” which offers a heartfelt farewell to a recently departed canine companion. A solo effort in name only, Robin’s partners in crime include guitarists Adam Steinberg, Andrew Mazzarone, Milt Reder and Joel Cage, bassists Dave Doms, Rob Jeffries and ex-Chartbuster, Scott Baerenwald, drummers John Sands and Billy Beard, vocalists Laurie Sargent and Kelly Knapp, and fiddle from (the late, great) Johnny Cunningham. Instant Album unfolds like a series of aural polaroids, each capturing a moment in time. Consequently, the record feels both classic and contemporary. A pioneering voice, Robin has survived five decades in the music business. It’s been a rollicking roller coaster ride, and she still has a lot to say.

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February 25 to March 3, 2021

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LOCAL BUSINESS

KNITS AND KNOTS BY STEPHANIE UNRAVELS

earning a new skill can sometimes be challenging, but turning it into a profitable business is an entirely new impressive feat. Stephanie Duffy has taken her passion for crocheting to new heights as her business venture, Knits and Knots by Stephanie, gains a local following with her fun and quirky designs. Knits and Knots by Stephanie had its inception in 2013, when the mother of two found out she was pregnant with her second son. “When I had my first son, no one told me about the hospital newborn photography. It was upsetting to me to have my firstborn and not being prepared for photos. I had seen so many babies with crocheted outfits for their first pictures, so I decided I was going to teach myself through YouTube and make my son an outfit for the newborn photos and from there everyone started asking to make them something. My ex-husband never let me work, so I thought this was the best opportunity for me to make my own money,” explained Duffy. Duffy has been crocheting for eight years now without previous experience, but with the memory of having her grandmother crochet blankets, it inspired her to take it upon herself to learn on her own. The services Duffy provides includes making photo props, clothing for all ages and different styles, purses, stuffed animals (or amigurumi—the Japanese art of knitting or crocheting small, stuffed yarn creatures), blankets, home decor, keychains, as well as custom orders that she has never done before. If there isn't a pattern available to purchase, Duffy tries to recreate it with her crochet knowledge, as she always loves a good challenge. “I've only officially written one pattern that is available for sale called the “Happy Pulpi”. It's an amigurimi octopus for preemie babies. The Happy Pulpi has carefully-made octopus tentacles made to feel like their mother’s umbilical cord—comforting the baby and reducing the risk of the little one pulling the medical bits and bobs they may need and potentially cause serious problems for them. I have many designs I've created on my own, but I've never written out the pattern. These

February 25 to March 3, 2021

BY CRYSTAL HARRELL

patterns/designs live in my head, which I'll eventually write out to sell,” said Duffy. Duffy’s creation process differs depending on what she is making. If she is recreating something with a purchased pattern, she will read the pattern and see what materials are needed such as which sized hook, the weight of the yarn, and how many ounces of yarn the item requires. She then takes her hook and yarn and makes a slip knot to start off the project. She then reads the pattern and works each stitch as written for each row until the project is completed. “If it's a beanie, for example, I would require an H Hook and three ply yarn and only one skein (one ball of yarn). I work a slip knot and will start with usually four single crochets, then close it shut and increase for the next 2-5 rows depending on the size of the beanie I'm making. Then after the increase, I would just work in rounds as normal without an increase for the desired length of the beanie to fit your head. Some people like to make it long so they can have a foldable brim and have a slouchy type of beanie,” said Duffy. Crocheting has been an outlet for Duffy while she was in an abusive marriage before leaving two years ago. She has created Domestic Violence awareness products such as purple heart keychains that say “Survivor,” incorporating her Cricut machine to add the iron-on words to each keychain. Not only has she made keychains, but she also has made 10-inch purple heart pillows and t-shirts with the word “Survivor” in glitter writing. In addition to her triumphant background, Duffy recently obtained her AA degree in Criminal Justice last May, and has been hired as a dispatch officer. “Both my kids and my boyfriend are so very proud of me and always love seeing what I'm working on next. My favorite part of my business is making customers happy with what they have ordered and getting pictures sent to me with them enjoying their custom product. I hope to one day own a consignment store to sell all sorts of items,” stated Duffy. To see the kind of products offered by Knits and Knots by Stephanie, visit her Etsy shop: etsy.com/shop/KnitsandKnotsBySteph

February 25 to March 3, 2021

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THE VINO VOICE

BY RICK RIOZZA

SO HOW DO YOU SAY “ROTHSCHILD” IN SPANISH?

f there is any name in the wine game that has stood the test of time—well, that would be Rothschild. When one hears of a Mouton-Rothschild Bordeaux being served for dinner—someone is living the life. Enter now the company and brand known as Baron Philippe de Rothschild: So named for the man of culture and action; and, born into the famous European family well-known to play an eminent role in finance, wine, and philanthropy. As to the wines produced, they are of course world class which include: Chateau Mouton Rothschild, Chateau Clerc-Milon, Chateau D’Armailhac, and one of our favorite Napa Valley wines: Opus One. And as of late, there is a new “Rothschild wine on the block” and it is produced in the beautiful vineyards of Chile. By the way—The Rothschild family take their name from the house they occupied in the Judengasse in Frankfurt Germany. So, in the German 'zum Roten Schild', translates in English to “the house of the Red Shield”. Fittingly, the Rothschild brand in Chile, where Spanish is spoken, is both Rothschild and Red Shield so translated: Escudo Rojo. For those thinking folks who’ve just thought of the fact that many Chilean wines are so underpriced for the quality—you’re first question is correct: What do these Chilean Rothschild wines cost? Well, the two wines that I’m discussing here are: The 2018 Escudo Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon priced at $17.99, and the 2018 Escudo Rojo Gran Reserva Red Blend is $21.99. What are we all waiting for?!? Why aren’t we buying up a case or two immediately!! Okay—let’s calm down and let me review these wonderful wines at hand. (Cheers by the way—you readers are getting a hot tip on this one! And feel free to invite me over to help drink down that case you just got.) When I tasted both of these wines—on different days and with different meals—I immediately thought, “If this were poured in a glass before a panel of judges with no knowledge of the wine, or, if this wine were to be on a sommelier’s test for the examinee to determine what wine they were drinking and where it was from, I think in both cases, it could be a fun dilemma: For the wine is the result of the successful encounter of two cultures: Chile offers its soil, its climate and its vineyard, while France brings its wine growing traditions and expertise. 2018 Escudo Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon: Impressive aromas ripe dark plums, cassis and smoke with a quick note of eucalyptus and wisps of Italian nuts. The palate shows a wonderful mix of fresh red and black fruits with a little herb and vanilla bean; rich and medium bodied at the same time; complex with nice tannins and long finish. 2018 Escudo Rojo Gran Reserva Red Blend: This blend consists of Cabernet Sauvignon and Carménère, with small portions of Syrah, Petite Verdot and Cab Franc. Yeah—we’re in a major league mix. Robed in stunning crimson, we find aromas of beautiful black fruit, roasted coffee, tobacco, and spices. The palate continues the same flavors with a soft dose of cassis and herbs. Stylish and complex, it’s such an elegant quaff: World class. And now, allow me to introduce the

esteemed Chilean Rothschild winemaker: Emmanuel Riffaud. Here are some brief excerpts of my interview with him. “When I started my studies, I hesitated between medicine and oenology. I come from Cognac, where my grandparents had an estate, so I have fond memories of the grape harvest that I would never forget. “I chose a specialisation in pedology, the study of soil. When you talk about terroir, you are talking about climate and soil. To make good wine, you need the right vines planted in the right soil. Today I still make use of everything I learned. There is an understanding of all the oenological, microbiological processes whereby we can truly understand how wine works intrinsically.” “The most important thing today is the tasting experience. We should never stop tasting...not only for our own personal benefit but also to enhance our own personal database... We do not use a recipe to create our wines; we go out to the vines without any preconceptions or prejudices...we taste the grapes in a state of mind that is as open and creative as possible, imagining what they can become in the bottle. You project yourself and find yourself dreaming about the future of a grape, a batch, a barrel.” I asked Monsieur Riffaud to comment on the winemaking in Chile: “Chile has a real patchwork of terroirs, each with its own distinctive features...it is not possible to impose rules or preconceived ideas that come from other vineyards around the world. One of the most important qualities is humility: first you have to learn from the terroir and the vineyard you are working with, then taste and adapt the vine as best you can to its climate and its parcel.” What we learned from M. Riffaud, is that Chile is a true winegrowing experience. Located at Buin-Maipo, 45 kilometers south of Santiago in the famous Maipo Valley, the Baron Philippe de Rothschild Maipo Chile bodega stands in its own 156 acre vineyard: a cutting-edge facility which combines the latest technology with the great Bordeaux winemaking tradition in the service of incomparable quality. In addition to the flagship blended wine, the Escudo Rojo range includes five varietal wines: Carménère, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. All the wines in the range express a distinctive character, reflecting the expression of its terroir. Cheers! Escudo Rojo is currently imported into the US exclusively by Monsieur Touton Selection Ltd.

PLANT-BASEDPALATE

hen I decided to switch completely to a plant-based diet, I knew several of my treasured recipes would be sacrificially removed from my culinary collection. Afterall, this was a small price to pay for good health. There was, however, hope that I could reinvent these chosen recipes to both satiate my appetite and avoid all animal products. But will they taste as wonderful? Well, that is exactly what I have been spending these past few months to discover. While the winter in the Coachella Valley can be brief, there are still some seasonal dishes that are best enjoyed on a cool night, snuggled by the fireplace. One of my most treasured comfort food meals recently became a challenge to recreate. Dating back to the 18th century, French Onion Soup is known for having a rich beef broth and savory, melty gruyere cheese, both of which are not part of a vegan or plant-based diet. My goal was to reinvent this classic and I believe, with just a few minor changes, I will not be missing my old recipe anytime soon. This recipe calls for a little more time and I assure you that not only is it worth the wait, but this intermediate recipe will require no exceptional culinary skills to achieve. With the ability to make in advance, this is a considerable accompaniment to a multicourse dining event or perfect as a meal on its own. What you will need: 4-6 medium yellow (or white) onions. 6-8 cups vegetable stock 2 heaping tsp all-purpose flour

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6-8 cloves garlic, minced (remember, “more is more,” and that is ok) 2 tbsp olive oil 2 tbsp plant-based butter (I prefer Earth Balance) 1 tbsp granulated sugar or Agave nectar 2 large bay leaves Fresh sage and thyme (leaves stripped and chopped) ¼ cup balsamic vinegar 1 tsp vegan Worcestershire sauce 1 tsp soy sauce Baguette Vegan mozzarella Vegan smoked gouda Salt, Pepper, & crushed red pepper to taste To begin, I chopped all the onions by first slicing off the root and opposite end, then setting flat and slicing down the middle. Laying the flat half down, I then sliced the onion into strips. Do not slice too thin as they can become stringy as they cook. At medium heat in a preheated pan, add olive oil and plant-based butter (I prefer using both for added richness and flavor). Add sliced onions to the pan and toss until coated with oil mixture. Lightly

MUSASHI JAPANESE RESTAURANT

usashi, established in 1996, is excited to welcome you back to outdoor restaurant dining. Executive sushi chef, Masao Arai, personally trains his staff to be devoted to

the small details that make for an excellent dining experience. The seafood is fresh and beautifully presented. The ahi tuna is a deep rich red with a subtle ocean-fresh brightness. Their sea urchin is a velvety,

FRENCH ONION SOUP

sprinkle onions with granulated sugar or drizzle with agave nectar and sauté until the onions caramelize to a golden-brown color. This will take about an hour, stirring occasionally so as not to burn. Once the onions have caramelized, add garlic, herbs, and a pinch of crushed red pepper. I cannot stress enough the importance of waiting to add the garlic at this point. Garlic can burn or overcook and lose some of its signature flavor if added too soon or prepared at temperatures too high. After stirring to mix completely, lightly dust the onions with flour (this will add texture

BY DAN PARIS

February 25 to March 3, 2021

BY RAYMOND BILL to the soup as it simmers later). Now add balsamic vinegar, vegan Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce. This would also be a good time to add ½ cup of red wine if you desire. Cook down for about 5-10 minutes until the vinegar (and wine) has reduced. Now add 6 cups of your preferred or homemade vegetable stock (if you prefer a less hearty soup, this is when more stock can be added, use your best judgement). Simmer for an additional 20-30 minutes. While the soup is simmering, slice your baguette into thick pieces and prepare for the oven by brushing with olive oil and topping with vegan mozzarella cheese. Set the oven to broil and toast your baguette slices just enough to melt the cheese, approximately 5-7 minutes. Finally, portion the soup into oven-safe bowls and top with toasted baguette slices, finished with more mozzarella and a slice of vegan smoked gouda (I enjoy the brand, “Follow Your Heart”) and place in the broiler until the cheese has melted. Garnish with fresh herbs and enjoy! This rich, savory/sweet onion soup will leave you wanting more so you might want to make extra and store for later. This will hold for 3-4 days in the refrigerator and for several weeks in the freezer, making this an easy leftover dish that can be ready in minutes.

PAMPEREDPALATE

briny mouthful. The fish for the sushi and sashimi is expertly sliced by the sushi chefs. The transparent slices of the ahi carpaccio enhance by the garlic-infused olive oil and citrusy ponzu is my dream appetizer. Musashi makes several different types of noodle dishes, both cold and hot. The earthy flavor of soba (buckwheat noodles) and soft texture of glassy sukiyaki and ramen enhance your slurping experience. The tempura is perfectly prepared with a thin, never greasy, coating of batter covering the crisp-tender vegetables and shrimp. Most Japanese restaurants serve miso soup as an afterthought. Musashi makes theirs with a complex, deep-flavored stock. The sauces and condiments are all made

in-house and are thoughtfully customized to pair with every dish. They serve chicken, pork, and beef tonkatsu in a light panko breading that will ruin your schnitzel cravings forever. To enhance your meal, Musashi offers rare sakes and a sophisticated wine list. Finish your meal with a scoop of green tea ice cream or frozen mochi. Musashi Japanese Restaurant 72785 HWY 111, Suite B-4 Palm Desert, CA 92260 760-340-9780 Monday – Friday: 11:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. & 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Saturday: 12:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. & 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

February 25 to March 3, 2021

SCREENERS

THE LAST VERMEER While Joseph (Claes Bang), a Dutch Jew, was fighting in the resistances during the Second World War, the witty, debonair art connoisseur Han van Meegeren (a terrific Guy Pearce) was hosting hedonistic soirees and selling Dutch art treasures to Hermann Goring and other top Nazis. Following the war, Pillar becomes an investigator assigned to the task of identifying and redistributing stolen art, resulting in the flamboyant van Meegeren being accused of collaboration – a crime punishable by death. But despite mounting evidence, Piller, with the aid of his assistant (Vicky Krieps), becomes increasingly convinced of Han’s innocence and finds himself in the unlikely position of fighting to save his life. This mesmerizing film from filmmaker/ producer Ridley Scott is as much about the power of art to deceive as it is about the most famous of modern art forgers who found a way to rip-off the Nazis while becoming the most famous man in Europe after WWII.

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No. 463

NEW FOR THE HOME THEATER

Don’t miss this compelling and mostly true historic drama that is shot in a style that reflects Vermeer himself. Sony. BD/DVD. THE CROODS Everyone’s favorite prehistoric family is back and here to stay with a star-studded cast, two all-new exclusive animated shorts, a crazyfunny gag reel, deleted scenes and more! The first prehistoric family is ready for another rocking (as in megalithic) adventure. They have survived fanged beasts, natural disasters, and even young love, but now they must face their biggest challenge yet: another family! In search of a new home the Croods discover a walled-in paradise created by the sophisticated Betterman family. (Emphasis on “better”). As they try to coexist, the differences between the two families escalates into a fullblown feud, but when a new threat forces both families to embark on an epic adventure, they must all learn to work together … or they’ll all

BY ROBIN E. SIMMONS

go extinct! The 4K, Blu-ray and DVD all include a treasure trove of watchable bonus features. Universal. 4K/BD/DVD. This endearing, trippy, psychedelic fever dream of a movie is a must see for not only animation fans but also anyone who wants to laugh out loud. Sony. 4K/BD/DVD. HORIZON LINE Former couple Sara (Allison Williams, Get Out) and Jackson (Alexander Dreymond) board a single-engine plane for a routine and casual flight to their friend’s tropical island wedding. Within minutes of takeoff, their pilot suffers a fatal heart attack, leaving them with no idea where they are, and not a clue to where or how to land the plane! With nothing but miles of ocean below and only sky above they are enveloped by a terrifying storm. For Sara and Jackson this is it – they have only one shot at surviving and there’s no going back. Universal. Blu-ray.

RICK & MORTY Wubba-lubba-dub-dub! From creators Justin Rolland “Adventure Time”) and Dan Harmon (“Community”) go on an intergalactic journey across the multi-verse with Rick & Morty Season 1-4! Get ready to binge on one of cables #1 watched comedies – and follow the misadventures of America’s favorite crazy scientist and his grandchildren with this outrageous boxed set which includes all 41 episodes from the first four seasons of the award-winning series, along with copious – yes, copious! -- special features, including audio commentary, deleted scenes, “Inside the Episode segments, numerous featurettes, past animatic sketches and much more. After having been missing for nearly 20 years, Rick Sanchez suddenly arrives at daughter Beth’s doorstep to move in with her and her family. Although Beth welcomes Rick into her home, her husband, Jerry, isn’t happy about the family reunion. Jerry is concerned about Rick, a sociopathic scientist, using the garage as his personal laboratory. In the lab, Rick works on a number of sci-fi gadgets, some of which could be considered dangerous. But that’s not all Rick does that concerns Jerry. He also goes on cosmic adventures across the universe that often involve his kids, Morty and Summer. Silly fun from Adult Swim. Warner Bros. Blu-ray.

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SAFETY TIPS

February 25 to March 3, 2021

FROM THE CHIEF’S CORNER

BY FIRE CHIEF SAM DIGIOVANNA

THE BEST KEPT SECRET!

by and talking with people from near and far who were dining outside. Whether breakfast, lunch, or dinner the food at the Melange is excellent and the staff has a “service before self” attitude. They go out of their way to accommodate and ensure you are well taken care of. They even have Sunday brunch! With COVID-19 19 keeping most of us tethered close to home, this is a great place to come and relax whether you are a local in the Coachella Valley or from outside the area for a little “stay - cation.” There is plenty of golf and with some COVID restrictions lifted, there is entertainment, car shows, hiking etc. available! The best part about the Chateau is whether you are here during the prime time of the season, or one of the hottest days in the summer, it is the coolest place to be! They are pet friendly and is an excellent location for weddings or business meetings. I promise you will not be disappointed. I am so impressed with GM Michael Spencer and his staff; I could not wait to write this article! The Chateau is located at 78-120 Caleo Bay La Quinta, CA 92253 Call toll free (888) 2264546 or call the Hotel & Mélange at (760) 5647332 to make a reservation. Bon appétit!

February 25 to March 3, 2021

PET PLACE

oachella Valley residents can enjoy walks and hikes in the beautiful desert weather right now. All dog owners know how much their canine pals love being included in their activities, and exploring nature with "Benji" makes it more enjoyable for us humans. The time is right to head out to Coachella Valley hiking trails with your "best buddy" tagging along. This is a great way for both of you to get exercise and spend some quality time together. The experience will relieve your dog's boredom, and may even eliminate negative behaviors. Assess your dog's readiness for hiking - Before heading out, evaluate your dog's level of fitness. If he is elderly or overweight, it's best to stick with walks around your neighborhood and avoid overheating. Remember that dogs are "people pleasers" and will push beyond their level of endurance to please you and keep up. It may seem too obvious to state, but ensure that your pet is friendly to people and other canines before heading out to public trails. Make sure your dog knows the most important command of all, "Benji (his name), Come!" in case he gets loose. Plan Ahead - Purchase needed supplies and make sure your destination permits dogs on trails. Most United States national parks do not allow dogs on trails. The book "140 Great Hikes in and near Palm Springs" provides a list of local trails that permit dogs to accompany

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TAIL-FRIENDLY TRAILS, HIKING WITH BENJI!

hikers. Supplies - Your dog can help carry some of the needed supplies in his own special backpack. A healthy dog can carry up to 25% of his own weight, however some breeds with long backs such as daschunds may not be able to carry much at all. You need to bring along enough water for both of you, with a collapsible bowl to serve it to your pup. Give him plenty of water during the excursion because dogs become dehydrated quickly. Water in streams and lakes may contain parasites and viruses. Bring high quality treats to keep up Benji's energy level. Make sure your dog is always tagged with your phone number, and bring a photo of him just in case he gets lost. Putting a colorful bandana around his neck will protect your dog in case you run into hunters who may mistake him for a game animal. A hat will protect him from strong sunlight. Other items to include are a map, compass, cell phone, first aid kit, sunscreen, and snacks for yourself. If you venture out on a warmer day, a Ruff Wear Swamp Cooler vest will cool your dog down. You soak it with water to dissipate the heat as the water evaporates. If you're walking on a rocky terrain, doggie boots offer good protection. Safety - Check your dog's paws for any signs of blistering or rawness. Remember that walking on hot concrete can be painful for our four legged friends. Some of my friends enjoy

taking their dogs out to remote locations and letting them run off leash. However, I recommend keeping a dog on leash for safety and to keep control of him in case you run into unfriendly animals such as snakes. Most public dog trails require your pet be leashed. You may find it easier to use a waist belt leash system. Trail Etiquette - When you meet other hikers, the dog and owner must yield the right of way to allow other trail users to pass. Likewise when you meet a horse, the hiker with a dog must yield. Step clear of the trail, and ensure your dog refrains from barking and moving toward the horse. And of course, use those poop bags! Where to go - The Homme/Ralph Adams Park, located off Highway 74 at 72-500 Thrush Avenue in Palm Desert, has dog friendly hiking trails. The Cove Oasis Trailhead in La Quinta, located just outside the National Monument, permits leashed dogs only between Calle Tecate and the flood control levee. Most California state parks limit dogs to campground and picnic areas, but some parks have trail areas where leashed dogs can join you for a hike. The Joshua Tree National Park allows pets, but they must stay within 100 feet from a road, and are not permitted on trails. Dog Beaches - Here's another great idea for a healthy excursion with your dog. You can both escape for a day at one of the dog

MEET CHRISSY

MEET COCO LINO

This lovely 3-yr-old mixed German Shepherd girl waits patiently for a home at the Humane Society of the Coachella Valley in N. Palm Springs. Sweet & loyal Chrissy had a long wait at the San Bernardino County shelter at Devore when abandoned, only to have her adopted human pass away from cancer. Chrissy will do best with a dog experienced family. Call (760) 329-0203 for an appointment to meet Chrissy and give her another second chance, www.orphanpet.com.

Co Co Lino seeks someone with a big heart! He is a 9-yr-old special needs boy with diabetes. He adores all humans, and takes his daily insulin like a champ! This guy is 18 lbs of kitty love. Co Co Lino waits at the Palm Springs Animal Shelter, go online at www.psanimalshelter.org to complete an adoption application and their staff will call you.

BY JANET McAFEE beaches in San Diego County. Most popular is the dog beach in Ocean Beach, located at the foot of Voltaire Street. Tucked away near the Del Mar racetrack is Solana Beach, a lovely spot that allows dogs from September 15 through June 15. It's almost surreal to see all the dogs happily frolicking in the ocean while the people sit on the sand watching them. Head for the beaches or the hills and have fun with your "best buddy"! What if you are “dogless in the desert”? Below is a list of some private rescues and shelters where you can adopt a fabulous rescue dog. Janetmcafee8@gmail.com -----------------------------------------------Below is a partial list of shelters and rescues in the Inland Empire with animals for adoption. They are currently closed for walkins, and you must call for an appointment. You can view most of their animals online before calling. If you seek a specific breed, you can also check on www.petfinder.com and put in the breed and your zip code. Thank you for rescuing! COACHELLA VALLEY ANIMAL CAMPUS – The county shelter is closed but you can call for an appointment to adopt. You can view the animals at all four Riverside county shelters at www.rcdas.org, and get the ID number of the animal you want to adopt. Email them the animal’s ID number at shelterinfo@rivco.org, or schedule a virtual adoption appointment at www.rcdas.org, 72050 Pet Land Place, Thousand Palms, (760) 343-3644. (Public) PALM SPRINGS ANIMAL SHELTER – The shelter is closed but you can call for an appointment to adopt. They schedule appointments Wednesday through Monday. View their animals online at www. psanimalsshelter.org, 4575 E. Mesquite Ave, Palm Springs, (760) 416-5718. (Public) ANIMAL SAMARITANS – The shelter is closed but you can call for an appointment to adopt. View their animals at www. animalsamaritans.org. Email acorrow@ animalsamaritans.org to foster. Located at

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72307 Ramon Rd, Thousand Palms, (760) 6013918. (Private) CALIFORNIA PAWS RESCUE - The shelter is closed but you can call for an appointment to adopt. Located at 73650 Dinah Shore, Palm Desert. View their animals at www. californiapawsrescue.com, (760) 656-8833. (Private) HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE COACHELLA VALLEY – The shelter is closed but you can call for an appointment to adopt a dog or cat. This shelter has lots of big dogs in addition to small dogs and cats. View some of their animals at www.orphanpet.com. Located at 17825 N. Indian Canyon, Palm Springs, (760) 329-0203. (Private) KITTYLAND – The shelter is closed so call for an appointment to adopt a cat. Located at 67600 18th Avenue, Desert Hot Springs, www. kittylandrescue.org, (760) 251-2700. (Private) FOREVER MEOW – Foster based rescue for cats located in Rancho Mirage. Contact them at www.ForeverMeow.org, (760) 3356767. (Private) PRETTY GOOD CAT – Foster based rescue for cats located in La Quinta. Contact them at www.prettygoodcat.com, (760) 660-3414 (Private)

February 25 to March 3, 2021

BFF4pets – Foster based rescue for dogs and cats located in La Quinta. Email them at rescues@bff4pets.com, (310) 431-7818 (Private) LOVING ALL ANIMALS – The shelter is closed but you can call for an appointment to adopt. Located at 83496 Avenue 51, Coachella, www.lovingallanimals.org, (760) 834-7000. (Private) MORONGO BASIN HUMANE SOCIETY – Located at 4646 Sun View Rd, Joshua Tree, www.mbhumanesociety.com, call between 11am-4pm for updates (760) 366-3786 (Private) CITY OF SAN BERNARDINO ANIMAL SHELTER – The shelter is closed but you can call for an appointment to adopt. Hours for adoption 10am – 4pm Tuesday thru Sat. Google “City of San Bernardino Animal Shelter” for website to view animals and get the ID number of the animal you want to meet. Located at 333 Chandler Place, San Bernardino, (909) 384-1304 or (909) 3847272. (Public) SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY ANIMAL SHELTER AT DEVORE – Shelter closed but you can call for an appointment to adopt. Call (909) 386-9280 daily. View animals at www. sbcounty.gov/acc and get the ID number of animal you want to meet. Located at 19777 Shelter Way, San Bernardino (Public). DREAM TEAM ANGELS RESCUE - Foster based rescue located in Grand Terrace/ San Bernardino area. Contact them through website www.DreamTeamangelsrescue.com, (360) 688-8884. (Private)

February 25 to March 3, 2021

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HADDON LIBBY

espite the pandemic, vehicle sales in the United States remained stronger than expected in 2020, down only 10% to 16.5 million new vehicles sold. Global sales were off 15% to 64 million vehicles. December car sales in the United States were 6.5% higher than 2019 – a remarkable feat when you consider the shutdown and economic impact of the pandemic. According to data compiled on GoodCarBadCar, the Ford F-Series is the top selling vehicle in the United States with nearly 900,000 units sold from February 2019 through January 2020 for a drop of only 1.4%. The Ram Pickup saw its sales increase by 18% over the period to 633,694 units followed in third by the Chevy Silverado with 575,569 units. The trend toward trucks and SUVs is clear with the Toyota RAV4 in fourth with 448,068 units sold followed by the Honda CR-V with 384,168 and the Nissan Roge at 360,447. The Rogue saw sales slip by 15% while the

2020 U.S. VEHICLE SALES

other vehicles at the top of the lists saw sales remain relatively flat or increasing greatly as seen by the Ram Pickup. Finishing out the top ten are the Chevy Equinox with 346,049, the Toyota Camry with 336,978, Honda Civic at 325,650 and the Toyota Corolla at 304.850. The Jeep Cherokee saw sales slip by 20% to 191,397 units while Ford’s Explorer was down 28% to 187,061. Tesla Model 3 sales were up 15% to 161,100 units with some of this growth appearing to occur at the expense of Model S

DALEGRIBOW ON THELAW

BY HADDON LIBBY As bad as Infiniti results look, Fiat saw all models decline by 25% to 52% such that all Fiat sales average less than 1,000 nationally. Honda appears that it may have a hit with their Insight model as sales doubled to 23,686. Generally, Honda beat market averages with the Pilot being their weakest model, off 15% to 135,008 units. GMC was other brand that did well across most models with the Sierra being their moneymaker. Ford was a mixed bag with successes like the Expedition, Fiesta, Ranger and Transit partially offset by the Explorer, Escape and discontinued Taurus. Buick continues to surprise with gains across its En- models like the Encore, Enclave and Envision. Land Rover was solid across all models with the Discovery being their weakest model, off 7% to 9.184 units. If early trends continue, the U.S. car market may return to pre-COVID levels in 2021 – truly remarkable in light of the economic crisis still going on for tens of millions of Americans. Haddon Libby is Managing Partner and Chief Investment Officer of Winslow Drake Investment Management. For more information, please visit www.WinslowDrake. com or email Hlibby@Winslow Drake.com.

LEGAL REPRESENTATION OF THE INJURED & CRIMINALLY ACCUSED

HAS COVID REDUCED RFID SCAMS?

FID are Radio Frequency Identification Devices that I have discussed in previous articles. They are half the size of a laptop. When a thief walks by you in a restaurant, airport or department store etc, the “card reading device”, costing less than $100, automatically steals your personal info off your credit card. The Radio Frequency Identification is a tiny chip in our credit and debit cards. If your card has the symbol of 4 waves )))) or says Pay Pass, Pay Wave or Blink it has RFID. Most of of you did not realize that your credit card information could also be stolen without taking the physical credit card by DIGITAL/ SILENT PICKPOCKETS. I recently learned of guard card protectors which are supposed to BLOCK the theft of information. I have ordered them but don’t yet know how well they work. It certainly would seem logical that with Covid and fewer crowds, that there would be less opportunities for the bad guys to use the RFID to steal our info. However I have not read any confirming info. The important thing is to be aware that this exists and be careful. We must also be aware of other scams.

which saw sales halved to 14,425 while Model X sales were up 28% to 19,600 units. Toyota saw sales of their Toyota Prius Family fall 20% to 69.719 unites while their RAV4 was their biggest seller up 5% to 448,068 sold. Volkswagen saw sales of their Atlas grow 37% to 81,508 while their Passat struggled with sales down 66% to 14,123. Mercedes-Benz kept sales fairly even across most models although the CLA-Class sold half as many cars as 2019 at 13,212. BMW sales were solid for the 3, 7 and 8 Series models but saw its 4 and 6 series cars suffer with 41% and 70% declines, respectively. Audi was another luxury vehicle maker with mixed results. Audis’ A6 and Q8 models were strong while all other A models struggled. Porsche sales were soft with most models except for their SUV, the Cayenne with a 71% increase to 19,001 units. Most Lexus models struggled with the IS off 35% to 14,920. The ES remained a solid performer, up 6% to 51,336 units. Similarly, Jaguar struggled across most models except for the F-Pace, up 19% to 15,491, and their first electric vehicle, the I-Pace with 2,594 units sold. Infiniti saw double digit declines amongst most models with the Q50 off 25%, QX50 -27%, Q60 -40%, Q70 -43% and the QX30 down 60%. The QX80 was the only model to post essentially flat results.

People are still shopping so those scams will always be there. However staying at home allows the bad guys to call and get someone on the phone they can scam. Booster Box/Bag: A larger hollow box or bag is placed down over a slightly smaller shopping bag, purse or product placed on the ground while looking in a showcase. The spring loaded bottom secures the item about to be stolen. The thief then walks away without anyone seeing what happened. Fake Shipping: I have received emails notifying me my package is on its way. Be careful and don’t click when you get this notice, as it may contain a link or attachment that will take you to a site that installs malware. If you didn’t order anything, don’t click on it. Gift Cards: They can be the perfect gift… IF not already opened. However, crooks go to stores and write down the numbers and pin on the back of the gift card. When they see someone purchase one they go online and use up the amount on the card. Thus you must be sure the wrapping on the card has not been disturbed, or the pin revealed. Fraudulent Charities: During the Covid epidemic, catastrophic fires, hurricanes or earthquakes, we are all more inclined to

help our fellow man. Thus we may fall for one of dozens of phony charities. If you don’t recognize the charity don’t donate to them. To investigate a charity go to Calif Charity Regulator, NASCO (National Assoc of State Charity officials). Check the website of the charity and inquire about their mission and what percent of the money goes to charity. If/when you spot a Scam, report it to FTC or state charity regulator through nasconet.org. That is the only way to try to protect the next guy. OpenSecrets.org is another site to see if the charity is really a charity, and to confirm they give the money to those in need. E-Cards: Many people now send holiday and birthday cards via email rather than through the mail. Be careful before you click on them if you don’t recognize the name of the sender. These are often phishing scams, aimed at getting you to provide more personal information. IF your credit card is stolen or compromised, report it to the major reporting agencies below. Equifax 1-800 525 6285: to place a fraud alert 888 766 0008. To order a credit report call 800 685 1111 Experian (formerly TRW 1-888 397 3742 to place fraud alert. To order a credit report call 888 397 3742 Trans Union 1-800 680 7289 to place a

Fraud alert. To order a credit report call 800 888 4213 Social Security Administration (fraud line) 1-800 269 0271 SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE ARTICLE? CONTACT DALE GRIBOW 760-837-7500/ dale@dalegribowlaw.com DALE GRIBOW - Representing The Injured and Criminally Accused “TOP LAWYER” - California’s Prestige Magazine, Palm Springs Life (PI/DUI) 2011-21 “TOP LAWYER” - Inland Empire Magazine 2016-19 PERFECT 10.0 AVVO Peer Rating DRINKING AND TEXTING BOTH CAUSE ACCIDENTS OR MAKE A DRIVER LESS LIKELY TO AVOID AN ACCIDENT, THAT WOULD NOT BE THEIR FAULT. BEING INTOXICATED, IS JUST AS SERIOUS AS BEING INTEXTICATED. A DRIVER MUST DO EVERYTHING POSSIBLE TO AVOID AN AT FAULT ACCIDENT. THE BOTTOM LINE IS “DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE OR TEXT AND GET A DUI OR ACCIDENT... CALL A TAXI, LYFT OR UBER….THEY ARE A LOT CHEAPER THAN CALLING ME”

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FREEWILL ASTROLOGY

CANNABIS CORNER

WEEK OF FEBRUARY 25

BY RUTH HILL R.N.

eturning from her ICU shift, a nurse removes her clothes and shoes in her garage and throws them into the washing machine. She proceeds to take a shower before touching or greeting anyone. Afterwards she slumps in a chair only to awaken an hour later with tremors. As silent tears stream down her face, she envisions the six times, she removed a patient from his/her ventilator. The patients family is not present. The nurse takes up the baton of priest, and counselor. There is no one else there. One more prayer to be whispered, one more significant lover to console. This scenario, of a health care worker (HCW), repeats every night for the next 10 days on, four days off, 10 days on, 4 days off of work for over a year. Quarantined in the basement living room so as not to infect her husband she wonders how long this will last without the symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)? Essential workers have the highest rates of adverse mental health outcomes compared to all other employment groups surveyed by the CDC. WebMD defines PTSD as shell shock or battle fatigue syndrome, a serious condition that can develop after a person has experienced or witnessed a traumatic or terrifying event in which there was serious physical harm or threat. PTSD is a lasting consequence of traumatic ordeals that cause intense fear, helplessness, or horror. Families of victims can develop PTSD, as can emergency personnel and rescue workers. Panic attacks, a key component of the diagnosis of panic disorder, along with chest tightness, a racing heart, shortness of breath, dizziness, lightheadedness, weakness, unsteadiness, and numbness often send patients to the emergency room. However, multiple studies show panic patients also exhibit respiratory irregularities such as chronic hyperventilation, sighing, and breathholding compared to the general population, indicating important underlying physiological factors. Some research reveals a precursor to panic attacks and PTSD can be sensitivity to CO2. A study review evaluates three major Coronavirus outbreaks of the last two decades to investigate resilience factors for PTSD and PTSS in HCWs. It included Nineteen studies on the SARS 2003 outbreak, two on the MERS 2012 outbreak and three on the COVID-19

February 25 to March 3, 2021

ongoing outbreak. Risk factor variables included exposure level, working role, years of work experience, social and work support, job organization, quarantine, age, gender, marital status, and coping styles. It will be critical to account for these factors when planning effective intervention strategies to treat HCWs facing the current COVID-19 pandemic. Treatments in the past for PTSD include Cognitive Processing Therapy, Prolonged Exposure, Eye Movement Desensitization, Reprocessing, Antidepressants (SSRIs and SNRIs), and FreeSpira, a nonmedication treatment all reimbursed by insurance. The Freespira platform combines a proprietary sensor, a nasal sampling cannula, a connected tablet and proprietary software that measures the users CO2 hypersensitivity then normalizes CO2 and respiratory rates. Freespira claims 62% of patients were panic attack free at 2-month follow-up, 68% of patients were panic attack free one-year post treatment and 93% demonstrated clinically significant improvement in the number or severity of panic attacks. As far back as 2011 studies in New Mexico and elsewhere showed a 75% reduction in symptoms with cannabis use. Recent years have brought a wealth of new scientific understanding regarding how medical marijuana or cannabis can be beneficial for treating PTSD/PTS. One study, from researchers at Wayne State University in Detroit, MI, looked at the impact cannabis exerts on the amygdala response of those dealing with trauma related anxiety, such as PTSD. Previous research shows cannabis has the potential to reduce anxiety, or even prevent heightened anxiety in threatening situations. As more and more states legalize marijuana, the federal government passes the M.O.R.E. ACT, and medical institutions defer testing for THC, HCW will finally be allowed to self treat their mental illness of PTSD. HCW may not want to use employer benefits due to confidentiality issues. My prayer is these legal issues become resolved before it is too late for our traumatized medical workers. Sign up for the virtual Cannabis Summit 2021 to learn cannabis use for anxiety, panic attacks and PTSD. Direct comments and questions to ruthahillrn.com.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): I invite you to think about one or two types of physical discomforts and symptoms that your body seems most susceptible to. Meditate on the possibility that there are specific moods or feelings associated with those discomforts and symptoms—perhaps either caused by them or the cause of them. The next step is to formulate an intention to monitor any interactions that might transpire between the bodily states and emotional states. Then make a plan for how you will address them both with your own healing power whenever they visit you in the future. TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Poet Billy Collins describes “standing on the edge of a lake on a moonlit night and the light of the moon is always pointing straight at you.” I have high hopes that your entire life will be like that in the coming weeks: that you’ll feel as if the world is alive with special messages just for you; that every situation you’re in will feel like you belong there; that every intuition welling up from your subconscious mind into your conscious awareness will be specifically what you need at the moment it arrives. GEMINI (May 21-June 20): You’re entering a potentially heroic phase of your astrological cycle. The coming weeks will be a time when I hope you will be motivated to raise your integrity and impeccability to record levels. To inspire you, I’ve grabbed a few affirmations from a moral code reputed to be written by a 14th-century Samurai warrior. Try saying them, and see if they rouse you to make your good character even better. 1. “I have no divine power; I make honesty my divine power.” 2. “I have no miracles; I make right action my miracle.” 3. “I have no enemy; I make carelessness my enemy.” 4. “I have no designs; I make ‘seizing opportunity’ my design.” 5. “I have no magic secrets; I make character my magic secret.” 6. “I have no armor; I make benevolence and righteousness my armor.” CANCER (June 21-July 22): “The only way to live is by accepting each minute as an unrepeatable miracle,” writes Cancerian author and Buddhist teacher Jack Kornfield. I disagree with him. There are many other modes of awareness that can be useful as we navigate our labyrinthine path through this crazy world. Regarding each minute as an opportunity to learn something new, for instance: That’s an excellent way to live. Or, for another example, treating each minute as another chance to creatively express our love. But I do acknowledge that Kornfield’s approach is sublime and appealing. And I think it will be especially apropos for you during the coming weeks. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): The coming weeks will be a poignant and healing time for you to remember the people in your life who have died—as well as ancestors whom you never met or didn’t know well. They have clues to offer you, rich feelings to nourish you with, course corrections to suggest. Get in touch with them through your dreams, meditations, and reminiscences. Now read this inspiration from poet Rainer Maria Rilke: “They, who passed away long ago, still exist in us, as predisposition, as burden upon our fate, as murmuring blood, and as gesture that rises up from the depths of time.” (Translation from the German by Stephen Mitchell.) VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): I’m fond of 18thcentury Virgo painter Quentin de La Tour. Why? 1. He specialized in creating portraits that brought out his subjects’ charm and intelligence. 2. As he grew wealthier, he became a philanthropist who specialized in helping poor women and artists with disabilities. 3. While most painters of his era did selfportraits that were solemn, even ponderous, de La Tour’s self-portraits showed him smiling and goodhumored. 4. Later in his life, when being entirely reasonable was no longer a top priority, de La Tour enjoyed conversing with trees. In accordance with the astrological omens, I propose that we make him your patron saint for now. I hope you’ll be inspired to tap into your inner Quentin de la Tour. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): I’m not saying there’s

anything wrong with your overall health, Libra. In fact, I expect it’s probably quite adequate. But from an astrological point of view, now is the right time to schedule an appointment for a consultation with your favorite healer, even if just by Zoom. In addition, I urge you to consult a soul doctor for a complete metaphysical check-up. Chances are that your mental health is in fair shape, too. But right now it’s not enough for your body and soul to be merely adequate; they need to receive intense doses of wellwrought love and nurturing. So I urge you to ask for omens and signs and dreams about what precisely you can do to treat yourself with exquisite care. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): “Love commands a vast army of moods,” writes author Diane Ackerman. “Frantic and serene, vigilant and calm, wrung-out and fortified, explosive and sedate.” This fact of life will be prominently featured in your life during the coming weeks. Now is a fertile time to expand your understanding of how eros and romance work when they’re at their best—and to expand your repertoire of responses to love’s rich challenges. Don’t think of it as a tough test; imagine it as an interesting research project. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Sagittarian poet and visual artist William Blake (1757–1827) cultivated a close relationship with lofty thoughts and mystical visions. He lived with his wife Catherine for the last 45 years of his life, but there were times when he was so preoccupied with his amazing creations that he neglected his bond with her. Catherine once said, “I have very little of Mr. Blake’s company. He is always in Paradise.” I hope that you won’t be like that in the coming weeks. Practical matters and intimate alliances need more of your attention than usual. Consider the possibility, at least for now, of spending less time in paradise and more on earth. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Poet Robert Graves regarded the ambiguity of poetry as a virtue, not a problem. In his view, poetry’s inscrutability reflects life’s true nature. As we read its enigmatic ideas and feelings, we may be inspired to understand that experience is too complex to be reduced to simplistic descriptions and overgeneralized beliefs. In fact, it’s quite possible that if we invite poetry to retrain our perceptions, we will develop a more tolerant and inclusive perspective toward everything. I’m telling you this, Capricorn, because whether or not you read a lot of poetry in the coming weeks, it will be wise and healthy for you to celebrate, not just tolerate, how paradoxical and mysterious the world is. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): The coming weeks will be a favorable time to shed old habits that waste your energy, and create constructive new habits that will serve you well for months and years to come. To inspire and guide your efforts, I offer these thoughts from author and naturalist Henry David Thoreau: “As a single footstep will not make a path on the earth, so a single thought will not make a pathway in the mind. To make a deep physical path, we walk again and again. To make a deep mental path, we must think over and over the kind of thoughts we wish to dominate our lives.” PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Piscean author Anais Nin was a maestro of metamorphosis, a virtuoso of variation, an adept at alteration. She regarded her ceaseless evolution as a privilege and luxury, not an oppressive inconvenience. “I take pleasure in my transformations,” she wrote. “I look quiet and consistent, but few know how many women there are in me.” Her approach is a healthy model for most of you Pisceans—and will be especially worth adopting in the coming weeks. I invite you to be a Change Specialist whose nickname is Flux Mojo. Homework: Complete this sentence: “Sooner or later the pandemic will lose its power to limit us. When it does, I will _______________.” FreeWillAstrology.com. ---------------------------------------Rob Brezsny - Free Will Astrology freewillastrology@freewillastrology.com

February 25 to March 3, 2021

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