Coachella Valley Weekly - April 3 to April 9, 2014 Vol. 3 No. 2

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www.coachellavalleyweekly.com • April 3 to April 9, 2014 Vol. 3 No. 2

Tortoise Rock Casino

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Tachevah

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Low Fly Incline

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Greek Islands

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April 3 to April 9, 2014

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Coachella Valley Weekly

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NEW OBJET TROUVÉ MAKES THE INDIAN WELLS ARTS FESTIVAL A FESTIVAL OF FESTIVALS

April 3 to April 9, 2014

April 4-6 at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden

760.501.6228

Publisher & Editor Tracy Dietlin Art Director Robert Chance Sales Team Raymond Bill, Brian Michaelz, Lisa Morgan Classified Manager & Nightlife Editor Phil Lacombe Features Writer Marissa Willman, Judith Sulkin, Denise Ortuno Neil, Heidi Simmons, Lisa Morgan Writers/Contributors: Robin Simmons, Rick Riozza, Lola Rossi, Craig Michaels, Bronwyn Ison, Haddon Libby, Rachel Montoya, Angela Janus, Janet McAfee, Heidi Simmons, Dale Gribow, Raymond Bill, Jack St. Clair, Rob Brezny, Amanda Dorta, Eleni P. Austin, Curtis Hendricks, Noe Gutierrez, Jill Coleman, Jennifer Tan, Sunny Simon, Richard Weiss, Dr. Peter Kadile, Dr. Maria Lombardo, Bruce Cathcart, Patte Purcell, Julie Buehler, Flint Wheeler, John Paul Valdez, Laura Hunt Little, Eric Robertson, Scott Pam, Brian Michaelz, Robin Linn, Rebecca Pikus,, Richard Noble, Karen Creasy, Trooper Ramsey Photographers Laura Hunt Little, Lani Garfield, Chris Miller/ Imagine Imagery Distribution Phil Lacombe, William Westley

Contents

Indian Wells Arts Festival................ 3 Events.............................................5 Tortoise Rock Casino.....................7 Sports Scene ..................................8 Sports.............................................9 FIND Food Bank...........................10 C.O.D. Palm Springs......................10 Celebrity Doodles.........................10 Tachevah Contest Winners...........11 Desert DJs......................................12 LMS - Rob Thomas........................12 DR- Low Fly Incline.......................13 Consider This - Broken Bells........14 Art.................................................15 Pet Place.......................................16 The Vino Voice..............................17 Club Crawler Nightlife.................18 Pampered Palate- Greek Islands...20 Screeners......................................22 Book Review ................................23 Real Estate....................................26 Its Your Nickel...............................26 Haddon Libby: It’s All Local.........27 Dale Gribow.................................27 Safety Tips....................................28 ShareKitchen................................28 Health & Fitness...........................28 Don’t Be Clueless in the CV.........29 Health & Fitness...........................30 Mind, Body, & Spirit.....................30 Free Will Astrology......................31 Mind, Body, & Spirit.....................31 Life & Career Coach......................32 Beauty..........................................32 Comics - Weiss Cracks..................34

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or the 12th year, the Indian Wells Arts Festival . . . where Art is A Happening!

-- brings a synergy of creativity and color to the beautiful grass concourse of the newly expanded Indian Wells Tennis Garden.

This spectacular venue transforms into an artisan village of 200 acclaimed artists featuring painting, drawing, ceramics, glass, photography, sculpture, jewelry, apparel and hand-crafted wares. Buy directly from these talented artisans.

This year The Indian Wells Arts Festival becomes “The Festival of Festivals” incorporating Objet Trouvé Found Art Festival. In the tradition of Pablo Picasso, Marcel Duchamp, Man Ray, Juan Gris and Georges Braque, using every day and “found” materials, artists will exhibit and create oneof-a-kind objet trouvé artworks for sale at this special exhibition area.

Installations and hands-on, found art demonstrations take place during the three day festival. Plus, a replica of Paris’ Eiffel Tower by Indio artist Mary Foote will be completed on site.

Featured Artist Featured artist is award winning Julie Dunn, this year’s poster artist, whose tempera batik painting on paper landscape titled “Indian Wells,” was created especially for the festival.

“The view looking at the mountain range is visible from the Indian Wells Tennis Garden, as well as the rocks, desert vegetation, and beautiful flowering cactus on Miles Ave,” said Dunn. “I wanted the image to reflect the beauty of the natural desert alongside the man-made enhancements, that is, settled areas with colorful landscaping.”

Special Installations & Demonstrations Continuing the synergy of excitement will be “Primal Space,” an installation of primal wood figures by La Quinta artist Eric Samuelson. His collage on board work is an intuitive look at primal cultures from the Aborigines, Aztecs, Incas, Africa, Native Americans, and others.

“Underlying the work is a sense of oneness; one people, one planet,” said Samuelson. “It is the soul or spirit of

humanity.” For Samuelson, each image “emotes a moment or situation.”

“The Art of Hand-weaving with Natural Dyes” will be demonstrated by Zapotec native, Antonio Mendoza, who began weaving at age seven under his father and grandmother’s tutelage.

Many who travel over Highway 79 towards Temecula notice metal stallions leaping over the highway. This year “Leaping Metal Sculpture” by this Temecula artist, Riccardo Breceda, adds to the fun and excitement at the Festival All-time favorite Bruce Freund fires up the furnace for his amazing glass blowing demonstrations. Watch sea sand sculptor Jeff Sherman create a life-sized mermaid.

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Interactive Exhibits Alabaster stone sculptors Merrill and Marla Orr will demonstrate carving techniques and allow guests to participate at their “When in Rome” exhibit.

Try your hand at throwing a clay pot at Old Town Artisan Studio’s booth. Have your photo taken at the Green Screen Set which puts you in the “Indian Wells” poster. This project is sponsored by Hot Purple Energy and Palm Springs Life with support from the Cathedral City High School Digital Arts Academy.

The Ophelia Project & Silent Auction The Ophelia Project, a program of Healthy Family Foundation, engages teen girls in an art project that is exhibited at the Indian Wells Arts Festival. The one-of-a-kind fused glass pendants art project is under the direction of Gideon Cohn of I.M.A.G.E.S. Gallery. The festival’s 200 artists will contribute artwork to a silent auction that benefits the Ophelia Project at the booth.

Live Entertainment Three days of great music and dance takes place on the Main Stage under the

shade structure.

Incendio, a group of Latin guitar and instrumental world music, has been performing at the Indian Wells Arts Festival since its inception. An exotic melody of a desert caravan; the sound of waves against a south African beach, a lone flamenco guitar are the evocative sounds of Incendio. Each day, Incendio’s quartet or duo -- guitarists Jean Pierre Durand and Jim Stubblefield, bass guitarist Liza Carbé and percussionist Nicole Falzone -- perform at various times starting at 10 a.m.

On Friday, an explosive mix of jazz, rock, classical, jam band, Afro Cuban and world rhythms, the Lao Tizer trio, throws down a high powered collection original music on keyboard, bass and drums. (12:30 – 1:30 p.m. & 3:15 to 4:30 p.m.)

Performing for the first time at the festival Saturday and Sunday, Bumproller Organ Trio offers up a cool mix of jazz, soul, blues and funk with Ty Bailie on the Hammond B-3 organ, guitarist/composer James Achor, and drummer Kevin Stevens. (Saturday 11:15 a.m. – 12:15p.m. & 1: 45 – 3 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m. to noon; 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.)

Aztec Dancers from the International Dance Club at Desert Mirage High School in Thermal, brings to life this ancient culture’s music and dance, performing Friday at noon.

Children’s Activities Kids of all ages are invited to experience the creative process in the Kids Creative Zone. S.C.R.A.P. Gallery brings a bag of tricks for children’s activities and presents the

Only Three Performances Left of IPAC’s “Marvin’s Room”

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he Indio Performing Arts Center is proud to continue its run of the multiple-award winning play, “Marvin’s Room,” April 4, 5 & 6, 2014.

“Marvin’s Room” is a hilarious and heartwarming comedy about a woman who is forced to re-connect with her estranged family. Its awards include the Outer Critics Circle Award for Best New Off-Broadway Play and the Drama Desk Award for Best New Play. “Marvin’s Room” is being produced by special arrangement with Dramatists Play Service, which, in 1993,called it “…unquestionably one of the most beloved, critically acclaimed, and significant new plays that the off-Broadway season has seen in years.”

The cast is a veritable who’s who in theatre in the desert and includes Denise Strand, Domingo Winstead, Julian Jacobo, Diego Valdez, Jeannie Reichert-Jorgensen, Jeff Wood and DTL Lifetime Achievement Award winner Louise Tonti. Film and television actors Tiffani LoBue, Valerie “VJ” Hume, and Kirk Geiger, who originated the role of “Ty” in both the stage and film versions of the classic cult comedy “Sordid Lives,” also play roles.

The last three performances will be Friday and Saturday evenings at 7PM, and Sunday afternoons at 2PM and will take place at the theatre, which is located at 45-175 Fargo Street in Indio. Seats can be

events

selected and tickets can be purchased for $19-$26 now at the IPAC website, www. indioperformingartscenter.org. For more information, contact the Indio Performing Arts Center at (760) 775-5200.

special exhibit “Recycle Bicycles” showing off the creative whimsy of embellished bikes.

The Children’s area comes alive with painting, chalk drawing and other creative projects. The S.C.R.A.P. Gallery, the Palm Springs Unified School District Art Program, Old Town Artisan Studio, and Stella’s Ridenour’s Crafts offer fun activities for everyone.

Food and Drink Daily concessions offer a wide variety of food and drinks including on Sunday “Eggs + Champagne in the Garden” brunch available till noon.

Gourmet Marketplace Visit the delicious Gourmet Marketplace for take-home edible treasures such as olive oils and balsamic vinegars by Bistro Blends, spices and creative spice racks at Spice Expressions, and ceramic garlic graters and

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mills by Go Vertical. Find hand-crafted body soaps, lotions, oils, creams and skin care from Tres Spa and Botanicals by the Sea. More About The Festival The Indian Wells Arts Festival is produced

by Dianne Funk Enterprises and has been rated one of the 100 Best Fine Art Shows in the country by Sunshine Artist Magazine, and 2014 Top 100 Event by the American Bus Association.

The Festival takes place Friday through Sunday, April 4 – 6, 2014 from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm (Gates close at 4:00). Adults $12; Children Free. Parking is free and Valet is available.

For commemorative poster orders and further information visit: indianwellsartsfestival.com; facebook.com/indianwellsartsfestival/ info; or call 760-346-0042.

The Gand Band Give an Encore events performance of Shaken Not Stirred at The Purple Room

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he Gand Band, featuring Gary and Joan Gand from Chicago, has been packing them into the all new, revived Purple Room throughout the 2013/14 season. The Gand Band performs at the Purple Room in Palm Springs every Friday and Saturday from 9 p.m. - midnight.

They will be finishing out the season through the end of May. Along with Gary Gand on guitar, Joan Gand on keyboards, the band includes Tony Grandberry on vocals, John Bolivar on saxophone, and Roger King on

drums. The music is a cocktail mix of 50’s and 60s gritty Memphis and Motown soull, swingin’ British hits and blues, and finger snappin organ jazz. There’s nothing like it in the Coahella Valley.

The Gand Band is doing an encore performance on Friday, April 18 of their special event, “Shaken Not Stirred,” a tribute to the spy music of James Bond, featuring additional guest vocalist Trina Parks (former Bond girl).

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Tortoise Rock gives the hi-desert a new place to play

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California Woman 411 with your host Dee Jae Cox

here isn’t even a sign on Twentynine Palms Highway at Adobe Road directing traffic to Tortoise Rock Casino, but that didn’t stop the hundreds of patrons who jammed the new gaming palace on Monday.

With 490 Las Vegas-style slot machines, mostly pennies with a five cent, quarter and a small bank of dollar machines, seven table games, a bar with a small stage area for local entertainers who will play on weekends and a quick-service café, Tortoise Rock is designed to bring a little excitement to the laid-back hi-desert.

“We’re ready to get this party started,” Adam Sak, marketing director for Tortoise Rock and Spotlight 29 Casino in Coachella, said earlier this week. Both casinos are owned and operated by the Twenty-Nine Palms Band of Mission Indians, whose tribal lands span the area from Coachella to Twentynine Palms.

Sak referred to the 30,000 square foot facility as a “boutique casino” that can accommodate about 1,100 guests on the casino floor and another 150 or so patrons in Shelly’s Lounge bar and Oasis Grill.

All of the slots on floor for the opening were brought up from Spotlight 29 and were replaced with new machines at the low desert casino.

“There are a lot of favorites from Spotlight that we brought up here,” he said.

“This will give us a chance to swap machines between the two locations.”

“We’re seeing what the market wants up here,” Sak said of the relatively small

number of machines for the opening. The tribe is limited to a total of 2,000 machines at both casinos, and there are no plans at the moment to renegotiate its gaming compact with the state. “We haven’t gotten that far; they’ll see how things go and make a decision about that sometime in the future.”

Aside from size, there are other differences between the larger casino and this boutique edition of a gaming palace.

Tortoise Rock is compact with a contemporary, slightly industrial feel. While Spotlight is totally enclosed except for the entrance, with three entrances there is a lot of natural light that comes in to three sides of the casino floor.

The opening party was celebrated by members of the Twenty-Nine Palms Band of Mission Indians, hi-desert dignitaries and locals and members of neighboring Coachella Valley tribes who all gathered to open the doors of the area’s first casino.

Sean Milanovich, the son of the late ACBCI Chairman Richard Milanovich, noted that attending the opening was like attending a family event. “My father always taught us that we need to sit at the same table,” he said. “You have to understand there’s been so many marriages between the local tribes that we all get together to celebrate each other’s success. It’s the way it should be.”

While the casino is in San Bernardino County, Riverside County Supervisor John Benoit, who represents the county’s Fourth District that includes five low desert casinos,

By judith salkin

photo by Chris Miller/Imagine Imagery

attended the opening to “wish them well in this endeavor,” he said. “This tribe has always supported me and I’m very happy to be able to return the favor.”

More than 60 California tribes operate casinos under State regulated compacts, only two – the Twenty-Nine Palms Band of Mission Indians and the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians – operate two casinos on their reservations.

“It’s pretty amazing that both tribes are in the desert,” Benoit said. “I’m not sure why that is, but I do know it’s good for our

April 3 to April 9, 2014

NEWS

economy.”

Tortoise Rock is adding to the economy of the hi-desert. While it took more than four years of planning, the 10 months of construction and now the 160 full- and parttime positions are helping the bottomlines of those who work at the casino.

“I know that a lot of folks who work at the casinos in low desert that live here in the hi-desert,” he said. “I’m sure they’re happy to see a casino up here. It’s good for this community.”

photo by Chris Miller/Imagine Imagery

‘Talking to women who lead and inspire’ Saturday’s from 10 – 11 a.m.

KPTR 1450 AM Palm Springs, CA California

CA-WMN-411 www.CaliforniaWoman411.com

Produced by The Los Angeles Women's Theatre Project:

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photo by Chris Miller/Imagine Imagery

photo by Chris Miller/Imagine Imagery

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sports scene

by Julie Buehler

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“Jules, are you enjoying fantasy baseball?” – Ryan on Twitter Well, we all know the baseball season is a long one. Really, really ridiculously long. So I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my early fantasy baseball experience, but it’s like getting to Disneyland really early while there’s no lines, you know what’s coming, you just try to enjoy the ride while you can.

“How do you see the NCAA reforming? Seems like the fat cats will always get fatter.” –Jordan on Facebook When I began reporting on NCAA reform and pounding the drum for change 4 years ago, a lot of my listeners questioned the possibility of reform as the NCAA seemed to have all the power and the college athletes nothing more than replaceable pawns. It seemed they system was too big and the machine too strong. But as with any process of change, the more educated people are on the facts, consequences and realities, the more change becomes possible. As we began to understand how college athletes are exploited and the student aspect of their experience a sliver of their collegiate responsibilities, change became more possible. As the lawsuits began to pile up and the media began to do their homework, reading the laws and by-laws and finally telling the story of the brazen hypocrisy of the NCAA’s stringent control and shocking corruption, change became more possible. And as the courts finally realized the charade of “amateurism” is just that, a charade to placate a kid’s dream to be a star while pocketing the billions for the suits.

So these colliding circumstances: the increased scrutiny, the improved consumer knowledge and most importantly, current college players standing up for their own rights has allowed for an environment that reform is not only possible, but inevitable.

The latest ruling from the National Labor Relations Board deciding that Northwestern University football players are employees and can therefore unionize is a game changer. And a speedy one.

Once college players have a voice, a union to represent their interests, the pendulum will shift and necessarily so, to offer them more rights, opportunity and perhaps the same freedom and free market that you and I enjoy while making our way in this world.

It’s not likely to devolve into the same free agency that professional sports allows, but I do think in the next year, we’ll see the billions dispersed to facilities and coaches and administrators to find their way to player trust funds.

This latest court ruling rips the heart out of the NCAA’s power base and that’s why it’s such a difference-maker.

With that, I’ll let you go about your day, knowing that the world of sports, ever exciting and changing and evolving and expanding and being dutifully reported right here in CV Weekly. If you have questions, feel free to tweet at me, @Julie_Buehler or post them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ julie.buehler.

Julie Buehler hosts the Coachella Valley’s most popular sports talk radio show, “Buehler’s Day Off” every day from 3-6 on 1010 KXPS, the valley’s all sports station. She’s an avid gym rat, slightly sarcastic and more likely to recite Steve Young’s career passing stats than American Idol winners.

Tune in M-F 3-6 pst at www.team1010.com or watch the show on Ustream.

April 3 to April 9, 2014

by Flint Wheeler

Founder of Silex Strategies L.L.C. providing sales and consulting in Insurance, Retirement, Real Estate and Taxes through New York Life and NY Life Securities.

PGA Class A Member and T.P.I. Certified Golf Trainer. Host of “The Tilted Sports Radio Show” and “The Odds on Favorite Podcast” on Team 1010 KXPS. Contact at 760-409-4612 www.flintwheeler.com

Buehler’s Sports Round-Up

was at the grocery store the other day, marveling at the giant selection of glutenfree pizza in the freezer aisle. Seems like last year none of that existed, anyway, while gawking a fellow came up to me, announced he read this fine column “religiously” and fired away with questions that apparently had been fermenting for some time in his noggin.

And that totally makes sense. March has been maddening with the NCAA tourney. MLB is here.

Finally….and for the foreseeable eternity.

The NBA is careening into the postseason.

And some massive news in the NCAA that we’ve been reporting on steadily has broken wide open.

That being the case, I thought I’d answer the most asked questions by readers on Facebook, Twitter and at the grocery store (which is a fun spot to run into readers. Yes, I added 2 gluten-free pizzas to my cart).

“Will you marry me?” –Tom on Twitter Nope. Gotta meet my dad first.

“Who’s your favorite in the tourney?” –Joe on Facebook Defense. The team that’s playing the best defense is going to be the most dominant team in the tourney. Florida and Arizona were my picks to play for the title because of their defensive prowess, but Wisconsin beat Arizona at their own game and ended up in Bo Ryan’s first Final Four ever.

Meanwhile they take a on fast, energetic Kentucky team for the chance to win a title. The only way the Badgers beat the 8-seed Wildcats, who are favored by 2 points, is if they keep up the defensive pressure they showed Arizona. Defense hadn’t been the Badgers calling card this season, but they turned it on through the tournament and find themselves in a position to win a championship.

Oh and how’s this for some fascinating history: the Final Four is being played in the same stadium where the Green Bay Packers won Super Bowl XLV as the first 6-seed in NFC history. Aaron Rodgers, that Super Bowl’s MVP, was in the locker room for the Badgers after their regional final victory. So Wisconsin has a chance to win it’s first national since 1941 in the same house that Rodgers supplanted NFL legend Brett Favre. That’s poetry.

And while you have to love UCONN’s story of redemption from NCAA sanctions, you also have to watch how Florida’s defense is suffocating its opponents. The Gators have won each game in the tournament by double digits. 5 of the past 6 teams to do that have won the title.

“Is Trouty worth $144M?” –Patrick on Twitter In a word: Yes. In 2 words: HELL YEAH!!! Mike Trout is the best player in baseball and he’s only 22.

The Angels signed him to a 6-year extension at an average of $24 million dollars a year. I don’t have an issue with the money; he might be the only player in the game I think can actually be worth that kind of money. My issue is with the length of the contract. The reason a team signs a young stud up for an extension 2 years earlier than arbitration is to save money in the overall deal to keep him.

Well, Trout was 2 years from arbitration and the Angels only get him for 4 years after that. So they’re paying him 24 times what they’d need to for 2 years in order to lock him up for only 4 more years and let him head into his prime a potential free agent.

Had they offered him an 8-10 year deal, perhaps for more money, I would have been more comfortable with that. This just seems like the Angels are forking over big money to groom a player who’s likely to head to free agency in his prime.

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Connecticut, Kentucky, Florida and Wisconsin make up this year’s Final Four..

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onnecticut, which wasn’t allowed to play in the NCAA tournament last year, put together a magical bracket run behind a do-it-all-player Shabazz Napier this year.

It worked.

With their 60-54 win over Michigan State on Sunday, the Huskies (30-8) became the first No.7 seed to reach the Final Four since the tournament expanded to 64 teams in 1985.

Along for the ride is Florida, who has not been to the Final Four since all those future first-round draft picks were in Gainesville.

Wisconsin and Coach Bo Ryan have never been to the Final Four and Kentucky supposedly had no shot at getting to North Texas after a midseason swoon.

Unlike the past few years, there will be Cinderellas in the Final Four.

These are NCAA elite, but each one has a big chip on their shoulders.

“In down times, what you do is you bond together as brothers,” UConn coach Kevin Ollie said. “And you hold that fist up.”

Billy Donovan won a pair of national titles at Florida with Joakim Noah, Corey Brewer and Al Horford, all top-10 NBA picks in the 2007 NBA draft. After that second title, he accepted the head coaching job with the NBA’s Orlando Magic, then changed his mind after the introductory news conference.

Donovan continued to produce winning teams in Gainesville, but the biggest wins eluded the Gators. They lost in the regional final each of the past three seasons.

That changed when the ferocious Gators (36-2) rode their chomping defense through a 30-game winning streak capped by Saturday’s 62-52 win over bracket darling Dayton.

“We didn’t start off the exact way that we should have, but coach Donovan continued to remind us and humble us and help us see that, in order to get where we want to get to, the end goal, we have to continue to chase greatness every single day and stay in the moment,” Florida forward Patric Young said.

To win another title, the Gators will have to go through the last two teams to beat them this season (UConn and Wisconsin) or their biggest SEC rival (Kentucky).

The Huskies won the 2011 national title with Coach Jim Calhoun and one-man show Kemba Walker.

Things went sour in Storrs after that.

Calhoun retired in 2012 and UConn was barred from the NCAA tournament last season for failing to meet the NCAA’s academic progress measure.

UConn beat Florida 65-64 way back on Dec. 2, the Gators’ last loss this season.

“We play a great Florida team and we’re going to be well prepared, because I know

about these guys’ heart, and that’s what got us through,” Ollie said.

Then there’s Bo. Wisconsin’s tell-it-like-it-is coach had been a regular at the Final Four, taking his father, Butch, to every one since 1976 as a birthday gift.

Bo had a hard time getting there with his team, though, winning over 700 games, playing in the NCAA tournament 13 straight years and reaching the Sweet 16 six times — and not one trip to the Final Four.

Bo and the Badgers (30-7) get their chance now after pulling out an emotional 64-63 win over top-seeded Arizona in the West Regional final on Saturday, which would have been Butch Ryan’s 90th birthday.

“I can remember some of the great teams that he had of kids and their first championships and how they acted and just the joy,” Ryan said. “These guys have had some others, but that’s all I wanted to see.”

Rounding out this foursome could be the most fearsome bunch of the bracket.

Kentucky won the 2012 national championship behind Coach John Calipari’s get-the-best-players-no-matter-how-longthey-stay philosophy. Cal brought in another heralded group of one-and-doners and they were touted as the team to beat, ranked No.1 in the preseason.

After a string of losses, including three in five games, the kid Cats were out of the polls and supposedly out of contention.

Well, look at them now.

Showcasing their talent and depth, the Wildcats (28-10) are playing with a cohesiveness and confidence that wasn’t there earlier in the season, racing into the Final Four after pulling out a last-second victory over Michigan.

My pick...Kentucky. It’s not how you start the race, it’s how you finish.

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Community City of Palm Springs Partners with FIND Food Bank to Feed the Hungry During Hunger Action Month City Leaders to Take Part in April 4 “Take a Bite Out of Hunger” Telethon

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pril is Hunger Action Month in the Coachella Valley and Palm Springs city leaders will join FIND Food Bank’s efforts to help feed the hungry and spread awareness about the growing problem of food insecurity in our desert by joining the food bank’s annual “Take a Bite Out of Hunger” Telethon, broadcast live on CBS Local 2 on Friday, April 4.

Palm Springs Police Chief Al Franz and Fire Chief John Allen will join a host of other community leaders answering phones and taking donations during the annual Telethon, which airs from 5:30 p.m. – 11:30 p.m. during commercial breaks.

In addition, through the end of the month, residents will be able to help feed those in need by dropping off canned food items in the lobby of Palm Springs City Hall, 3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way and the Palm Springs Public Library, 300 S. Sunrise Way. “We believe it is crucial for all desert cities to join together in a committed coalition to make the Coachella Valley a Hunger Free Zone,” said FIND Food Bank CEO Lisa Houston,

who added that even small donations to the food bank make a big difference to those in need.

A $1 donation equals seven meals while a $10 donation equals 70 meals, said Houston.

To donate, visit www.FindFoodBank.org or text “FIND” to 20222. Through a network of more than 100 community-based partners that include local soup kitchens, food pantries, shelters, after school programs and senior centers, FIND Food Bank currently distributes more than $8 million pounds of food annually to more than 80,000 people per month in the Coachella Valley.

“The City of Palm Springs is committed to helping FIND Food Bank in its mission to wipe out food insecurity and truly make our valley a Hunger Free Zone,” said Mayor Steve Pougnet. “I invite every resident in Palm Springs and the entire Coachella Valley to take part in Hunger Action Month, whether you donate your time, food or money, we are all in this together.”

DOODLE FOR D.A.P.

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n award-winning magician who has performed around the world for audiences including celebrities and royalty, Matthew Dowden is a charming singer/entertainer who also has an incredible sleight-of-hand. Erin Quill, a member of the original Broadway cast of the Tony-winning musical “Avenue Q,” is already well-known to Palm Springs from her four consecutive yearly performances at “Sparkle!” which, like Celebrity Doodles, also benefits Desert AIDS Project.

So, it’s sure to be fun on Saturday, April 5 when these two talents join forces to host the festivities at the 2014 Celebrity Doodles, beginning at 6:00 PM. Just to be safe, you might want to buckle up for this flight-offancy from the Air Museum because with

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City of Palm Springs and College of the Desert Announce Plans to Relocate West Valley Campus to Palm Springs Mall

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he City of Palm Springs and the Board of Trustees of the College of the Desert (COD) are pleased to announce that plans are in the works for the much anticipated new West Valley Campus to move from its current proposed location to a new site in the heart of the city at the Palm Springs Mall.

The City asked the College to reconsider the idea of using the mall location after Southern California Edison cancelled plans to develop a solar park on half of the 119acre campus site proposed off of Tramview Road. Subsequently, the College made an offer to the owner of the mall and hopes to negotiate a purchase. Currently, the mall is partially leased with no firm redevelopment plans in place.

The mall site had been one of the preferred sites originally considered by the City early on in location discussions for the new campus. The site offered significant advantages due to proximity to existing infrastructure, access to public transportation, and adjacency to Palm Springs High School, the Palm Springs Public Library and the Camelot Theater. The location was ultimately not proposed due to the high cost of acquiring the mall and

on Saturday, April 5 at Palm Springs Air Museum

celebrities like Susan Anton, Kaye Ballard, Taylor Dayne, Jack Jones, Ruta Lee, Suzanne Somers and hubby Alan Hamel, Ann Walker – and a few surprises – in attendance, it’s anybody’s guess what might happen.

While you’re thinking about your evening there, why not plan to take a celebrity home with you? What about Olivia Newton-John or Kylie Minogue? Vanessa Williams? Or maybe Bob Mackie or Dr. Phil is more to your taste.

OK, maybe you won’t take home an actual celebrity … but you can certainly bid on a piece of artwork they’ve produced especially for the occasion, whether it’s the

NEWS

classic doodled cocktail napkin or one of the more detailed pieces that some celebs have submitted.

The doodles are still coming in but you can take an online peek at some of them already received – like Lily Tomlin’s artistic musing on her role as “Ernestine, the telephone operator” -- when you head over to www.celebritydoodles.com. While you’re there, make sure to purchase your tickets too, so that you don’t miss out on any of the fun when this event takes flight.

ABOUT DESERT AIDS PROJECT Desert AIDS Project serves people living with HIV and AIDS by providing

relocating major tenants like Gottschalks, True Value, Ross, Vons, Office Max and many more.

“This new site, located in the heart of the city, is truly the best location for the West Valley Campus,” said Mayor Steve Pougnet.

“The city is experiencing a tremendous renaissance and it makes perfect sense that students have access to all of the wonderful things our city has to offer right in the heart of Palm Springs.”

“The COD Board of Trustees remains firmly committed to the development of the West Valley Campus,” said COD Superintendent /President Joel L. Kinnamon. ”The solar park project was a crucial component of the college’s plans.

With that partnership and source of revenue no longer available – there is no doubt that relocating the campus to the Palm Springs Mall is the right solution at the right time for the benefit of our students.

events

comprehensive support, including medical care, case management, and social services, like food, housing, and counseling. D.A.P. also offers free and confidential HIV testing at a number of locations throughout the communities it serves. To learn more about Desert AIDS Project, please call 760-3232118, visit www.desertaidsproject.org or find them on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

Local Music Spotlight

Tachevah, A Palm Springs Block Party

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oldenvoice put the call out to this desert’s local musicians and they answered. Bands throughout our valley submitted videos to vie for a spot in the second annual block party on Tachevah Drive in Palm Springs, a showcase that last year provided huge exposure for the winners and even a chance to play at the world renowned Coachella Music and Arts Festival. 65 videos were voted on by thousands, multiple times, pushing 10 bands to the top based on their number of votes. Unlike last year, however, their metal (so to speak) was to be tested in a much more strenuous setting: a battle of the bands, if you will, at the Hard Rock Hotel, Palm Springs. The bands would perform a traditional set and be judged by the lovely and accomplished country/blues songbird, Shelby Lynn; Desert Sun’s and the Coachella Valley’s infamous music/entertainment connoisseur, Bruce Fessier; and Goldenvoice/AEG Live representative, Gopi Sangha. It was play hot, or go home. A few bands played exceptionally hot, and still were sent home sans victory. Needless to say, the competition was fierce. Three of the ten were chosen. The process of winning a shot at performing for these judges was not without controversy, due to the fact that one could sit for hours voting repeatedly for their favorite band giving advantage to those with nothing but time on their hands. Still, there was very little room for doubt that, based on the performances on each given night, these judges got it right. For an event that, in large part, represents a college age demographic, these three bands will hold their own next to the majority of the bands imported to perform at this year’s Coachella Music and Arts Festival. That is not to say that a few of the other bands that were NOT chosen from the live competition or the other 65 video submissions could not have done us as equally proud.

Goldenvoice has done something very good for our music community. It has given a high profile platform to showcase the many representatives of our desert soundscape, one that is rapidly becoming a fertile musical mecca, blooming within every genre and age demographic imaginable. For that, Goldenvoice, we thank you.

The winners, in order of their scheduled performances at the 2014 Tachevah, Palm Springs Block Party were: (I should take this opportunity to share with you that the worst part of this entire contest for pretty much EVERY band competing, was what felt like the endless amount of time that passed between their last song and the announcement of the results.)

The Yip Yops: This first band came out swinging on their appointed night to compete, and man did they make an impression.

Completely covered from head to toe in what seemed to be hooded Hazmat suits, tagged with

April 3 to April 9, 2014

by Lisa Morgan

Free Show Wednesday, April 16th @ 5pm. Local Bands Representing The Depth and Youth of Coachella Valley’s Music Scene

fluorescent paint. Having only performed as a unit for the last 6 months, the mystery swirled around them as they pounded out a rocking original tune reminiscent of late 70’s punk the likes of Devo with classic rock overtones. The vocals that barreled out of the lead singer had the tone and depth of Jim Morrison with a touch of INXS’s Michael Hutchence’s upper range floating in and out of the song. When, after the first song ended to the cheers of those watching, the three revealed their faces by pulling their hoods back, the cheers reached an even higher pitch. Standing before them was lead guitar and singer, Addison VanWinkle (14), Jacob Gutierrez on bass (15) and drummer Ross Murakami (17). While many were there to support friends in other bands, The Yip Yops had won the crowd’s delight with their stage presence and musicianship, and they didn’t stop there. They went on with their supercharged set, leaving many in the audience conceding that the Yip Yops were strong contenders for the win.

I had the opportunity to meet with them in their practice room. I asked them whose idea it was to wear the suits. Drummer, Ross Murakami pointed to his left. Bass man, Jacob Gutierrez pointed to his right. Between them sat Addison Van Winkle (aka Add). He shrugged and explained, “I was in class thinking how cool it would be. I told my dad and he dug it. Then we took it to the band and they... well, they didn’t like it.” Ross smiled and admitted, “He eventually convinced me.” It was a risk, but it paid off with high dividends as it allowed these very young players to be judged on pure musical merit while adding an entertaining mystique to their performance. Unknown to the audience however, was the fact that the hooded suits did not allow them to see. So under the most strenuous and nerve racking circumstances possible for a band, these guys walked on to the stage literally blind.

Addison has been a natural at music from a very young age taking piano lessons. A bit of a prodigy, he absorbs everything he is taught and then some, with a natural grasp on reading music and music theory. The other two band members, however, are completely self-taught. All three admit that they were inspired by the interactive game Rock Band and Guitar Hero. Ross admits he had been given a guitar as a gift and ended up selling prior to the video game inspiration. But ultimately, when other kids his age were buying more video games, Ross bought himself a set of drums. Without any mentors or teachers, he turned to YouTube instructional videos and began to learn the songs he loved that were on his iPod. Jacob also learned by ear and the internet and taught himself how to read guitar tabs. Practicing several times a week over the last 6 months, scheduling around Ross’s part time job and Add and Jacob’s school schedule, these players push

each other out of their comfort zones and form an amazingly tight unit.

Six months ago the Yip Yops set their sights on Tachevah. Now, like the other local bands they will be sharing the stage with, they just want to get out there and play. They have 10 original songs ready to go and several in the pipeline. When asked what their hopes would be should they garner the attention of a label, Addison answered, “I think that would be the dream. Tour support would be great. We put a lot of effort into our show, trying to keep people guessing what the hell we’re going to do next. I think additional exposure, getting out to play for as many people as we can.” I asked them if they felt they had fine-tuned their “sound” or if it was still developing. Jacob answered, “We are always going through different phases. I think we’ll always be developing and changing.” As I spoke to these musicians, who in any other setting might be called “kids”, I found that I was looking into the eyes of young men, a bit wise and focused for their years, who knew exactly what they wanted, were ready and willing to do the work. This isn’t a gung ho bunch of youngsters entertaining a hobby, having to be prodded by parents. Quite the opposite. Not once did any of the parents step in and try to speak for them. Watching over them as loving parents do and giving them the support they need, they were careful to stay out of the way, trusting them and allowing these talented and driven musicians to pursue and reach for their dream. They respectfully take this group of young men called the Yip Yops and their pursuits very seriously as should we all. Based on what I witnessed, they are set to make some noise in the music industry. theyipyops.com CIVX I first heard this band at The Hood Bar and Pizza shortly after they had received news that they were to be one of the ten battling it out for a spot at Tachevah. It was one of those moments that subtly hits you over the head like a truck.

They have a sound that is so full and so powerfully rhythmic and harmonic, it is riveting. The dual guitars of Sal Guti and Dillon Dominguez, play in countering chorus, lead and rhythm, causing you to search back and forth to see who’s playing what lead to no avail. The two are very much one.

Pounding out the steady but intricate and driving beats is a human machine (aka Joel Guerrero).

Yet, no machine can match the touch and feel behind the consistent perfection of musical time Guerrero puts out tirelessly and powerfully. With all that going for them, they have more than enough to qualify them as winners in any contest.

Here, enters Nick Hernandez with one of the most unique and enchanting vocals I have ever heard. He sings steadily, rich in tone and pitch, floating from note to note forcing you to lean forward to hear the musical message. Where

some front men cover their lack of vocal skill with a rehearsed and practiced style, Nick is natural style backed by pure vocal ability. His voice, echoing like the very first indigenous creators of song, makes this one of the most original bands I have heard in a long time. Together they carve and whittle brilliant song after brilliant song. Meanwhile, you cannot take your eyes off of them as they pour themselves into the music in an almost translike manner. I have to wonder if sometimes they should break out of their deep musical oneness to eye the audience and see what a Wow reaction they are getting from them.

I hope you will take advantage of the opportunity to see this band at Tachevah. This is definitely a large venue band that will absolutely thrive in this setting. When you do see them and realize that everything I’ve said about them is NOT an exaggeration, consider this: The band has only been together since January. The video they submitted they had to put together at the last minute using their phones. Then their family and loved ones went to work, voting to help them win.

The magic of this band lies deep in the friendship and brotherhood they share with each other. With serious emotion, drummer Joel says, “We have our differences; we each have our different tastes.

But we keep an open mind.” Guitar player Sal Guti, speaking for the entire band shared, “We respect and admire innovative musicians and music. We are striving to play our own role in that.” I have to say, there is a very strong chance that they will. civxmusic.wix.com/civxmusic One11 I have been hearing about this band for the last two years and have not been able to see a performance. First I heard about them from proud parents, but not long afterward, it seemed like everyone knew who they were. I was impressed by their video submission to Tachevah last year and was glad to see that they were selected for the top 10 this time around. Finally, I would be able to catch them live. They were the last band continue to page 25

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April 3 to April 9, 2014

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

desert dj’s

By craig michaels

DJ Sean Mixes Music, Art and Passion

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rowing up in the bay area with grandparents who introduced him to Jazz standards and Sinatra, Sean Enright, would soon fall in love with the beach boys before sporting a mullet for the classic rock of the 70’s. Sean began break dancing his way through the 80’s and by the 90’s, he was 100% electronic. His decades of music knowledge have helped Sean master the skill of mashing up the different genres of music with the latest beats to energize a dance floor.

His curiosity with mixing tapes and comedy tracks at age 13, tuned into DJing block parties and community college functions in Tacoma Washington at age 20. Sean decided to make the desert his part time resentence in 2010, since both his parents and grandparents have call the Coachella Valley home for decades. When Sean is not in the desert you can usually find him in LA or in his home town of San Francisco doing gigs.

The creativity of Sean’s mother has also been inspirational for him over the years.

She is currently an artist jewelry maker and painter, working with some of the biggest retailers and department stores in America.

Sean proudly remarks about his mother; “she is a creative genius, who produced more high-end art in a month than I could in a year! With enough practice I’d like to produce on that level.” It’s obvious his love for art is just as strong as his passion for

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music. He compares the stroke of a painters brush to the mix a DJ produces with two or more tracks. “Just as the artists uses colors on the canvas to convey his emotions, the DJ uses music to convey what they are feeling from the crowd,” clarifies Sean.

When spinning for an event, Sean admits reading the crowd is one of the most important elements. He says it’s all about emotion, timing and knowing when to charge up the beat. His format is simple, create a dance floor, bring them along for the ride, wow them with the music and don’t forget to look up, smile and have fun.

Sean has currently started his own production company called Platform Entertainment but he’s focusing on preforming rather than producing shows, events and parties. “It’s been more enjoyable for me and I get a higher level of satisfaction counting people dancing rather than counting the money,” Sean explains.

Although he does lots of house parties, Sean has recently started playing a weekly gig at Red Barn, Palm Desert, on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

If want to contact Sean you can email him at: sienright@gmail.com or visit his web site: dj-sean.com.

Written By: Craig Michaels Musical Affair Entertainment www.musicalaffair.com

Local Music Spotlight

By tracy Dietlin

GRAMMY WINNING ARTIST, ROB THOMAS’, SPRING TOUR STOPS AT FANTASY SPRINGS RESORT CASINO

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ultiple Grammy winning Emblem/ Atlantic recording artist Rob Thomas plays at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino on Saturday, April 5th which benefits Sidewalk Angels Foundation, the non-profit organization founded by Rob and his wife Marisol Thomas.

Rob Thomas is one of the most distinctive vocalists and accomplished songwriters in contemporary music, garnering a string of accolades – both for his work as lead singer and primary composer with Matchbox Twenty as well as for his solo work and collaborations with other artists. In 2004, the Songwriters Hall of Fame presented Thomas with its first ever “Starlight Award” – created to recognize a songwriter in the early years of his or her career that has already made a lasting impact. He has won numerous BMI and ASCAP Awards, and has earned the Songwriter of the Year crown from both Billboard and BMI, two years in a row.

Thomas is best known for his charttopping hits such as “Lonely No More” and “This is How a Heart Breaks” and Matchbox Twenty hits like “Push,” “3AM,” “If You’re Gone,” and “Bent.” Thomas also earned three Grammy Awards for “Smooth,” his smash collaboration with Santana. Thomas wrote and sang the song, which currently ranks first on Billboard’s “Top Hot 100 Rock Songs” chart and second on the magazine’s “Hot 100 All-Time Top Songs.” Thomas last solo album, Cradlesong, generated even more number one hits, including “Someday” and “Her Diamonds.” Overall, Thomas has contributed to sales of more than 80 million records.

Rob Thomas and his Matchbox Twenty band mates recently finished up their hugely successful sold-out world tour in support of their #1 selling album “NORTH.” Fueled by critical acclaim – as well as the hit singles, “She’s So Mean,” “Overjoyed” and “Our Song”– the album’s unprecedented success marked the band’s first-ever chart-topper and #1 debut. Rob is currently at work on his third solo album.

Rob took time out of his busy schedule to answer a few questions for CV Weekly.

CVW: Your show at Fantasy Springs is in support of Sidewalk Angels Foundation to raise funds for no-kill animal shelters and animal rescues, can you share the emotional connection you feel with animals?

Rob Thomas: Mari has been rescuing animals since she was 10 years old. It has always been a part of who she is. When the two of us met it was a big thing that we both shared how much we loved animals and how much joy they bring to our lives.

We feel like our rescues have rescued us instead of the other way around. They give you unconditional love and ask for nothing in return. We feel blessed to be able to work

together through Sidewalk Angels to help fight for the rights and fair treatment of those with no voice.

CVW: Can you tell us about the animals that you have rescued?

RT: Our first rescue was really our first child. His name was Tyler and he was a special soul and taught us so much. He was horribly abused in West Virginia and was afraid of everyone. On the day he met Mari he immediately cozied up to her and never left her side. And he changed our life forever. He was actually the catalyst for Sidewalk Angels to finally become a reality. We lost him a few years ago. It was really hard. We have since rescued our little guy, Samy, from a puppy mill and our boy Ollie from the beaches of Puerto Rico.

CVW: Is there a website people can go to for more information and to donate to Sidewalk Angels?

RT: To learn more about our foundation you can visit our website sidewalkangelsfoundation.org, where you can read testimonials from shelters we have helped this year and see first hand what supporters’ money is helping to accomplish.

CVW: On another note….are you currently writing new material?

RT: Right now I’m really buckling down to write for a new solo record but I’m always writing. It’s just something I have to do at all times or I don’t feel like me.

CVW: What bands are you listening to currently?

RT: I’m a big fan of lots of music. Country, Jazz, Rock… Some current bands I really love are The Gaslight Anthem, Vampire Weekend, Kings of Leon, My Morning Jacket and The Neighbourhood.

You can see Rob Thomas perform this Saturday, April 5 at Fantasy Springs Resort & Casino.

Tickets for the 8PM performance are on sale for $79, $59, $39 at the Fantasy Springs Box Office, via telephone (800) 827-2946 or online at www.FantasySpringsResort.com.

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

ROBIN LINN’S DESERT RHYTHMs

DESERT ROCK BAND FROM AUSTRALIA, LOW FLY INCLINE

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iz Orkestra and I bumped into each other at a desert rock show (Dave Lombardo and Philm) at Schmidy’s Tavern in Palm Desert. He introduced me to Tarek Smallmen, an Australian musician who is here in the desert to record his second desert (stoner) rock record. To help him realize his creative vision, he enlisted the assistance of desert rocker and producer, Scott Reeder. Scott is known the world over for his contributions to desert stoner rock as bassist for Kyuss, Obsessed, Across The River, and most recently Sun & Sail Club, a band formed with Fu Man Chu guitarist Bob Balch, and another Scott Reeder (drummer for Fu Man Chu). Scott is as vintage a desert rocker as they come, and has been a seminal player in our original desert rock scene since its earliest days. At his ranch and studio, The Sanctuary, he has helped other desert rock bands bring their creative visions to life. One such band is desert doom masters, Atala featuring Kyle Stratton, a passionate and soulful heavy metal guitarist who describes Scott Reeder in the studio as “The Magic Man”.

Now, Scott is back to work in the studio with Low Fly Incline from Australia, where they are currently underway to complete their second desert record. The debut album recorded here in 2012, OTHER DESERT CITY, has helped group together a solid rock project which LFI supports with live performances in Australia. The new record will be finished and ready for release in early 2015 and it promises to bear the essence of the real desert!

LOW FLY INCLINE is a desert stoner rock duo who has been clearly influenced by the rock that has come out of our region. You can hear those influences in tracks like “Burn The Timber” and “Vinnie The Rune” (off Other Desert City) which are chalk -full of sexy slide work provided by Riz, with musical contributions (voice box/bass) by Scott as well. The highly charged, distorted, fuzzedout bass and guitar lines are joined together by the forceful rhythmic structure of drummer Mitch McGregor. Together this duo has created its own unique brand of desert rock with an Australian accent. There is plenty of meat and bones in the hard rock compositions which have an undeniably distinct sound that is associated with the stoner rock that our desert is famous for.

After chatting with Tarek about flying across the sea to come to the desert to create, I was left with lots of questions about their perception of the desert, it’s music, and why they chose to come half way across the world to create an album. I reached out to Tarek for some answers and asked Riz to

chime in too. I find the answers proof positive that the desert is in fact producing some of the most significant and unique music that rock has seen in the past thirty years, drawing artists from London, Sweden, and Australia here to tap into some of our unique desert inspiration.

RIZ ORKESTRA singer/songwriter known for his slide guitar which can be described as “down-home west-coast California back-roads roots-guitar”. As a songwriter, and performer he is greatly respected not just in the desert, but as far away as Australia. I wondered how he came to know members of LFI and here is what he had to say......

“A couple years back I was home from playing on the road and dropped by a Monday night up at Pappy & Harriet’s to say howdy. I played a couple slide guitar tunes as per usual and went around the room after that (as I often do) saying hello to folks and handing out Riz Orkestra buttons. One particular character at the bar with an Australian accent offers a friendly compliment to my music and asks if I’d mind playing a bit on a recording he was working on with some desert musicians. I said “sure man” and thought he’d just melt into the sunny sky like a lot of folks do. The next day he calls me up and later that week he shows up at my place with recording gear and I played slide guitar on a number of tracks, tracks that sounded like the real-deal, and I do mean real-deal, desert rock! Yet all this sound with an Australian musician.

Now, most of my friends are musicians or creative folks of various types, so I felt an immediate affinity to welcome this guy into my extended family of music. He’d traveled thousands

April 3 to April 9, 2014

Here working with producer/bassist Scott Reeder on their second desert record”

of miles to a place he’d been drawn to simply because the music he loves comes from here.

The session went so smoothly and naturally I offhandedly told him to hang around for an extra week or two so we could keep working on the music. I’ll never forget that look he gave me when I said that. He didn’t say “sure man”, but then again, he didn’t say “no way” either. We hung out again later, drank a lot of beer into the early dawn talking about life and listening to all kinds of music.

Call it what you will, it was basically a reunion of long-lost brothers, though in fact we’d never before met. Not two days later I get a call and he’s booking a house for a week which transforms, through an explosion of equipment from our cars piling in through the door, into a desert crucible of music-making for 14-hour days through the entire week. There are tunes and tracks we wrote and played by the burning light of day and the starry cool of night, a number of which live in completed form on the album Other Desert City under Tarek’s band name Low Fly Incline. For anyone who’s ever made a recording, I don’t have to explain how even a half-day can be intense enough to require a couple days off just to recover. But in this case, it was more like visiting an agreeable tribal family member for the ancient purpose of teaming up to complete a community work of labor. Did I say labor? Goddamn was I tired at the finish of that week! Tired in the best of ways.

Tarek left for Australia and in the many ensuing phone conversations we had over the following months, I’d heard many-a time how he was gonna finish mixing the CD and bring one over for me to hear. Of course I wanted to believe he would

return because I know how much he believes in the music.... and heck, I played my ass off on that record. I think everyone who loves desert music should hear it at least once!

You know, life being what it is, I offered patient encouragement and figured well, we were coming from the right place with our the enthusiasm for a spontaneous musical adventure and made some good music along the way...and maybe that’s enough to expect from it all anyways. Cut to the present - it’s now two years later and we just took a drive out through the desert listening to the new CD in a rental car, sometimes silently absorbed in the sound and in the recollection of making the music, other times hootin’ a hearty laugh or drumming on car interior surfaces at the splendiferous confluence of the desert rock Tarek traveled so far to be close to. The random meeting of Tarek and hilariously fitting role I could play in the sound. Yep, Tarek’s a guy with a focused creative vision, an infinite tenacity to complete said vision....a guy who actually does what he says he’s gonna do…a rare friend indeed. -Riz OrkestraA CHAT WITH TAREK SMALLMAN OF LOW FLY INCLINE RL: How did you come to work with Scott Reeder and elaborate on why you chose to come across the seaboard to record here in the desert with him?

TEREK: I’d always dreamt of recording at Rancho De La Luna because it was a name that I’d seen on so many of the records I’d bought. One night a few years ago I came across a YouTube clip with Dave Catching showing someone through the studio. I realized from watching the clip that it was more someone’s house than a studio, and that it probably wasn’t really open for just anyone to record there. I had been Facebook “friends” with Scott for a while and noticed him posting photos of stuff going on at his studio. I asked him if I could book some time, he said yes, and away we went.

RL: Do you feel coming to the desert to record effects the resulting product?

TEREK: Very much so. It’s the entire reason we come out here to record. The landscape here is so markedly different from where we’re from, you can’t help but feel dwarfed by the enormity of it, and then have that feeling transfer to the music.

RL: You are a two piece....how do you recreate the music in the live setting?

TEREK: There’s actually not really much recreation necessary. The sound of the record is more or less how we sound in the room. Part of starting the band was me building an effects pedal board that consists of three separate signal lines running to two different amps (one bass amp and one guitar amp). I like a lot of two piece bands that are out there, but I knew if I was going to do one myself, that I would need to find a way to generate all the huge bass tones that are essential to the music I write. The pedal board allows me to do that without having an actual bass player.

RL: I understand you have several guest artists appearing on the new record including Riz Orchestra? How did you meet Riz and who else can we expect to hear on the debut record?

TEREK: When I was out here in 2012 making the first album, I went to Pappy & Harriet’s a few times to eat and check out bands etc. One of the times I was there was for Teddy Quinn’s open mic night on the Monday. I saw Riz get up and play, and was completely floored by the genuine blues and continue to page 25

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April 3 to April 9, 2014

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

by Eleni P. Austin

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BROKEN BELLS

ock & Roll “Supergroups” originated back in the late ‘60s. At that point, the genre was no longer considered a teenage “fad.” Slightly drunk with their own self-importance, Rock musicians began creating their own all-star teams.

Probably the best known progenitors of the Supergroup were Cream in the U.K. and Crosby, Stills & Nash in the U.S. The former featured British guitar god Eric Clapton (Yardbirds, Bluesbreakers), along with bassist Jack Bruce and drummer Ginger Baker (both from The Graham Bond Organisation).

The latter sounded like a law firm, but consisted of Folk-Rock phenoms David Crosby (Byrds), Stephen Stills (Buffalo Springfield), and Graham Nash (Hollies).

Cream practically invented the Blues-Rock Power Trio and Crosby, Stills & Nash played their first live gig in front of an estimated audience of 400,000 at Woodstock.

Since then, Supergroups have come and gone, from the sublime, (Traveling Wilburys, Temple Of The Dog, Them Crooked Vultures) to the ridiculous (Mr. Big, Damn Yankees, Chickenfoot).

Some Supergroups, like Velvet Revolver or SuperHeavy, seem good on paper, but the resulting music is tedious and uninspired.

Broken Bells is a Supergroup of sorts. Of course, they’re just a duo, (but you can’t really say Super-Duo, that implies they might fight crime in an ambiguously gay

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

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“After The Disco” (Columbia Records)

manner!) But that duo is made up of James Mercer and Brian Burton.

James Mercer is the leader of literate indie-poppers, The Shins. In the early 2000s, the Albuquerque quartet were the go-to band for intricate, autumnal heartache. In Zach Braff’s vapid movie, “Garden State,” a character actually insists that the Shins’ song, “New Slang” will “change your life.”

Brian Burton, better known as “Danger Mouse,” first came to prominence in 2004 when he created a mash-up of Jay Z’s Black Album and the Beatles’ White Album.

Appropriately entitled Grey Album, it was leaked to the internet.

Copyright infringement prevented the album from receiving a proper release, but Danger Mouse was the talk of the music industry. He immediately began working as a producer, teaming up with artists as disparate as Gorillaz, Norah Jones and the Black Keys.

By 2006 he had hooked up with NeoSoul savant, Cee-Lo Green. Together they created Gnarls Barkley. Buoyed by catchycreepy single, “Crazy,” their debut, The Odd Couple shot to the top of the charts.

James Mercer and Danger Mouse began collaborating in 2008. 18 months later, as Broken Bells, they released their selftitled debut. Mercer eschewed the boyish falsetto that characterized his Shins work.

Danger Mouse suffused the arrangements

Consider This

and instrumentation with warm synths, plangent strings and angular guitars.

Peaking at #7 on the Billboard charts, the album received a Grammy nomination for Best Alternative Music album.

Following a brief tour, James Mercer returned to the Shins and Danger Mouse joined forces with Italian composer Daniele Luppi, Norah Jones and Jack White to record Rome. But they still found time to get together to write and record Broken Bells’ sophomore effort, After The Disco.

The first three songs on the record, “Perfect World,” “After The Disco” and “Holding On To Life” act as a suite of sorts.

“Perfect World” opens the album with bloopy, pulsating synths that ebb and flow.

Mercer is down, but not out… “I’ve got nothing left, it’s kind of wonderful/’Cause there’s nothing they can take away.” The prickly guitar solo that ping-pongs through the melody wouldn’t be out of place on a Flock Of Seagulls song.

Appropriately, “After The Disco” is anchored by a four-on-the-floor Disco beat.

Bubbling synths buoy Mercer’s dour lyrics that detail heartbreak on the dance floor…

“The chill of the night has got you dancing away, and I’m not the dreamer of the dream you’re out there looking for.”

“Holding On For Life” is accented by a robotic rhythm, ooky theremin runs and acoustic underpinnings. Mercer affects his

art

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

April 3 to April 9, 2014

By rebecca pikus

12th ANNUAL INDIAN WELLS ART FESTIVAL

best Brothers Gibb falsetto as he helps a lost soul navigate the rocky shoals of romance...”You’re trying not to look so young and miserable/You gotta get your kicks where you can.”

Broken Bells’ sound is steeped in the music of the ‘80s. On their eponymous debut, the Cure seemed like a touchstone.

Here, they have expanded their sonic horizons.

The hypnotic roundelay of “Leave It Alone” shares musical DNA with Michael Jackson’s late ‘80s hit, “Leave Me Alone.”

The squiggly “Changing Lights” echoes Duran Duran, Nintendo music and the “Axel F.” theme from “Beverly Hills Cop.” Finally, the electro-shock groove of “No Matter What You’re Told” matches a herky-jerky cha-cha cadence to a decidedly Depeche Mode-ified melody.

The best tracks here are “Control” and “Medicine.” The former blends a ricochet rhythm, slithery bass lines and ascending horn riffs. The lyrics insist we cannot control our destiny… “Nothing’s permanent in life, so it’s useless to hold on so tight.”

The latter is propelled by insistent handclaps and rubbery guitar fills. Mercer offers up a withering assessment of a self-pitying ex…”You think hurting gives you license to do anything at all, but you gotta take your medicine.”

Other interesting tracks include the slippery “Lazy Wonderland,” and the melancholy “The Angel And The Fool,” which mixes icy synths with an desolate Spaghetti Western whistle.

The album closes with “The Remains Of Rock & Roll” A grandiose string section cocoons a see-saw melody. Mercer unspools a whimsical vision of end times… “I’m off to the promised land if anyone needs a ride, It’s a small car, we’ll fit inside if we leave our bags behind/ We’ll entertain ourselves just watching the world go by.”

After The Disco isn’t as immediately accessible as Broken Bells’ debut was.

Dense and layered, it requires repeated plays before the listener is fully engaged.

With this second album, Mr. Mercer and Mr. Mouse move beyond the confines of a quirky side-project. An upcoming tour (including Coachella) means that Broken Bells are here to stay.

T

he Indian Wells Art Festival has been ranked as one of the 100 Best Fine Arts Shows in the country. It will be held again this year at the beautiful grounds of the Indian Wells Tennis Gardens from Fri. April 4 - Sun. April 6, 2014. IF you want to visit One Event -- and see 200 Artists all in one place -- this is the place to go! The Festival is produced by Dianne Funk Enterprises. Dianne Funk is the hardworking yearly Organizer, and no one works more diligently than her to make this a fabulous event!

The Art Festival will host more than 200 contemporary artists from 11 states, predominantly the Western & Pacific Northwest Regions. Visitors will find original art, including Paintings, Sculptures, Pottery, Glass, & Photography. Two of our Awardwinning Desert Area Artists participating in the Festival are Mario Pikus (Sculpture), & Snake Jagger (Painter).

New at the Festival this year will be the Palm Springs area’s first-ever Objet Trouve Found Art Festival -- creating a Festival of Festivals! Objet Trouve is the idea of using everyday objects & found materials to create stimulating works of art.

There will be many interactive Demonstrations, including: A replica of Paris’s Eiffel Tower by Indio artist Mary Foote, which will be completed on-site. “The Art of Hand-weaving with Natural Dyes” will be

demonstrated by Zapotec native, Antonio Mendoza. Glassblower Bruce Freund will fire up his furnace for his amazing glass blowing demonstrations; Sea Sand Sculptor Jeff Sherman, who will create a life-sized mermaid. The Old Town Artisan Studio’s booth will be offering throwings of clay pots.

The Ophelia Project will once again have an exhibition by teen girls who are creating one of a kind fused glass pendants, under the direction of Gideon Cohen of Images Gallery. In addition, Artwork has been contributed to a silent auction during the weekend to benefit The Ophelia Projects. Children’s activities will also be provided throughout the 3 days of the Festival.

The Festival will feature live music - jazz, blues, rock, classical - by such groups as Incendio, Lao Tizer, & Rumproller -- with a special dance exhibition by the Aztec Dancers. Daily food concessions -- with a French theme this year -- wine tasting, plus an Egg & Champagne in the Garden Sunday brunch.

Indian Wells Art Festival- Friday, April 4 - Sunday, April 6, 2014; 10am-5pm (Gates close at 4pm); Adults $12; Children free; Parking free, Valet is available.

For Info: Indianwellsartfestival.com, or call (760)346-0042

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April 3 to April 9, 2014

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PET PLACE Foster Homes Needed F

oster homes are desperately needed for our four-legged friends who find themselves homeless through no fault of their own. Everyone knows there is a foster care system for children. You may or may not know that many animal welfare organizations have formal foster care programs that effectively “expand the walls of the shelters” and provide loving care and socialization to pets in need.

Our local public animal shelters are usually filled to capacity, and they can only put so many animals in a kennel. Fostering allows an animal who may be frightened and uncertain in a shelter setting to thrive in a loving home environment. Fostering makes shelter animals more adoptable. Foster parents provide valuable information for the animal’s forever family. Foster homes are a key component in reducing euthanasia and helping the Coachella Valley become a “No Kill” community.

Sharon Wren is pictured here with one of the 12 dogs she has fostered for Loving All Animals, a Palm Desert based group.

Sharon became familiar with the world

Orange Tabby This friendly mellow 2-yr-old boy waits for a home at the Coachella Valley Animal Campus, 72-050 Pet Land Place, Thousand Palms. He’s cat ID#A1092988.

Call (760) 343-3644.

Lovely Lucy This “Miss Personality” award winner loves good conversation and marathon petting sessions. Lucy is a spunky 2-yr-old beauty with a lush coat covered with black spotted “Bengal like” markings. Contact ForEverMeow rescue at (760) 335-6767 to schedule a meet and greet.

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of rescue when Loving All Animals found her a beautiful Pomeranian dog at a local animal shelter when her dog passed away.

Even though she now had two dogs of her own, Sharon is an ardent animal lover who wanted to help save other dogs.

Sharon explains why she became a foster parent, “I’m so glad I was introduced to Loving All Animals because of all they do for animals. It is so rewarding for me and my grandchildren as they learn how each animal is so different, but all have the need for love. I make sure they are socialized with humans and animals, so when we find them forever homes the new family will be delighted in their new friend. It is hard to say goodbye to any of the animals I have fostered, but knowing they are going to have a wonderful life with their new family is a joy and a blessing to me. I say a little prayer for each of my foster babies that they will be blessed in their new life.”

Sharon’s grandson, Deegan, lives nearby and enjoys meeting each of the temporary little residents. He has a great definition for a pet foster parent, “Grandma heals the

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by Janet McAfee

dogs so they can get adopted.”

In the world of rescue “failed foster” is the term jokingly referred to those fosters who end up adopting their foster animal.

Some fosters do end up adopting. It is a term of endearment as these foster parents are wonderful people who make wonderful adopters. However, this means new homes must be recruited because the animals keep coming.

The need for more foster homes is critical in the summer months as many of our snowbird fosters are gone until the late fall. This is the time when full time residents plan frequent trips away to cooler locations.

But the animals keep coming....

Folks often say they cannot foster because they would feel too sad when the animal gets adopted. Please consider how sad the animal feels living in a shelter.

Please consider that an available foster home can be a matter of life and death for

precious Peanut

This is a face to fall in love with! Come out to the Coachella Valley Animal Campus and meet Peanut, dog #A1092352, a long hair Chihuahua boy, 8 yrs young.

Located at 72-050 Pet Land Place, Thousand Palms. Call (760) 343-3644.

animals in some public shelters. Fostering is an enriching experience for folks who get to see the dog or cat’s personality unfold. You get to hear the happy stories of how well they are doing in their forever homes. And you are part of that happy ending.

How long do you foster? There’s no specific time frame. Local resident Joy Diffendal fostered a dog for about half an hour when a neighbor spotted her getting out of her car with the newcomer and adopted him. Typically, an animal is in a foster home between three weeks to three months until it gets adopted. If you can only foster for one week, that time is appreciated and is critical to getting an animal out of a shelter.

If you can find a place in your heart and some room in your home for a homeless dog or cat, there are several local organizations you can contact. These groups provide food, supplies and veterinary care. You can contact Loving All Animals in Palm Desert at (760) 834-7000. If you live in Palm Springs, contact Judy Crotts at the Palm Springs Animal Shelter at (760) 416-5719. The animals thank you!!

April 3 to April 9, 2014

by Rick Riozza

Ooh là là - ma Petite Sirah!

I

t was unbelievable! Modern History in a glass! Indeed—Palm Springs history was being written and played out in the first Petite Sirah Throwdown in the Coachella Valley.

The event was being hosted over at our favorite wine storage facility, the Wine Vault of the Desert, in Palm Desert, owned by wine guys Ralph and Jack who keep our wine safe, sound and cool over the seasons.

And the small crowd of participants— smiling about with purple-stained and indigo-sullied clothing—knew they were both in the moment and forever in history.

Petite Sirah, like Zinfandel, is one of the few wines that California has taken to itself and produced something special.

Originally from France (it’s the French love child between its royal father, the Syrah grape, and the wayward Country-French gal of a vine, Peloursin) this grape with a feminine name really produces a wine quite on the brawny side with deep rich aromas and flavors of blueberry, blackberry, spice, chocolate, mixed with black pepper notes, licorice, smoked meats and tar.

And there’s a real following among us Californians who just go crazy over this stuff.

It’s what a red wine drinker desires when meeting up with a large steak & potato.

It’s historically big and powerful but, a fine bottle of Petite Sirah can also show an elegance like we find in a Cabernet Sauvignon. It has those great mouth grabbing tannins and is somewhat high in acidity that all work to make it a wine with the ability to age. Mark Oldman, in his “Brave New World of Wine” calls Petite Sirah “dark and intense as a dominatrix’s boot.” Producer Villa San-Juliette in Paso Robles, calls it “blueberry motor oil”.

Feminine in stylishness, masculine in clout. “Voluptuous” definitely comes to mind—which could be translated as a sexy wine. It’s a winner of a red wine and the trend is to produce the best it can be.

Those inquisitive will want to compare the “Syrah” wines to the “Petite”. Like their spellings—they’re different. California Syrahs and Australian Shiraz’s have a different flavor profile. The “tar” notes that all of the wines share, are different as well.

The Petite’s “tar” is much more subtle.

We ducked inside the safety of the Wine Vault to begin the competition as the sandstorm had already taken down most of Cathedral City—power-wise, and the blustery sandblasting conditions kept hammering in the wind corridor.

Draped and disguised as a wine snob, I took charge. Voila! Purple Theatre appeared as the unveiling of five premium Petite Sirah took stage and the introductions took place.

Here listed in the order of their tasting: Southern Wine & Spirits bestowed the 2012 Summerland “Wolff Vineyard” Edna Valley.

PMDL & Co. Wine Agency offered the 2012 Jaffurs “Thompson Vineyard” Santa Barbara.

The Angeles Wine Agency presented the 2011 Miro Cellars Dry Creek Sonoma Valley.

Total Wine and More provided the 2010 Puccioni Dry Creek Sonoma Valley .

3rd Corner Wine & Bistro supplied the 2010 La Coquerel Calistoga Napa Valley Due to the nature of this exclusive wine tasting throwdown , all of participants were required to use pseudonyms in completing their tasting notes to protect them from the ire and jealousy of the valley’s wine cognoscenti who were not included in this competition. Even I was sworn to secrecy (but certainly I would be bribed by a great case of wine!)

Gasps were heard among this elite group as the young but massive deepest purplely wine was poured into their goblets. Wine this big definitely needs time to settle down.

As we see here, the two 2012 vintages are just out of the gate and, the other three are still relatively pretty young. But these wines couldn’t be held back—the least we could do was to aerate them for 2-3 hours before sampling.

With a 20 point scoring system, the Summerland with its blue fruit and hints of coffee and aromatic spices with a great finish did very well with an average score of

18. Only “Minnie” and “JJ” “didn’t quite like it—just not my favorite.”

The Jaffurs did not score as well, with “Flippy” finding it “too tannic and too young” and pretty much everyone else felt this needed food. To me, that’s exactly the point—I scored it much higher and would look for this wine at our local restaurants to enjoy.

The Miro received two perfect scores with “Wendell Wino” and “Winn Day” commenting that they could drink this on its own. “Smooth, soft and a lingering finish” were terms used often describing this wine.

Yes—the wine was “soft” with blue and black fruit on the nose followed by toasty oak, cinnamon and dark molasses flavor notes. I’d love to taste this wine with some age on it or I’d recommend aerating it for at

MIRA CVWkly Spa Pamper Me 4.87x5.62 021314.indd 1

least four to six hours.

The Puccioni garnered lots of fun comments from “wet earth and old world” to “bright but different” to “I’m a Puccioni convert—18 points!” Puccioni has been making Petite Sirah for over a hundred years—they do have it down with that great Dry Creek vineyard. Interesting, “Stephanie Rogers” (a great pseudonym—by the way) gave it the lowest score of any wine—8 points! finding it “sweet, light and short.”

Finally, the Coquerel with its inky color, a nose of blackberry fruit & spice, and a long red fruit and licorice finish, definitely had the crowd feeling its Napa Valley roots.

“Tasty Lacy” gave it 18; “Lucious Lucy” gave it 15.

As you can see, we had a fun time as all the wines were winners in one way or another. I wish to thank all of the wine companies and businesses who provided the wine. Please keep them in mind when you’re looking for some great vino.

And thanks again to the Wine Vault of the Desert, 77556 El Duna Ct, Palm Desert, CA 92211 (760) 345-3000—who provided even more wine, cheese, and shelter from the sandstorm. Great job!

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2/13/14 12:50 PM

April 3 to April 9, 2014

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Club Crawler Nightlife

340 N PALM CANYON DR. PALM SPRINGS, CA 92262

Scan the QR Code to get the Club Crawler Nightlife on your Mobile Device via the Smartphone Phone Book!

THUR APRIL 3 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Rojer & Bobby 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Reunion w/ DJ Day Amigo Room 10pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Paul Elia 7-10pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Paula Prince 7pm BAR; PS; 760-537-7337 Rebel Noise, War Drum and Brothers Weiss 9:30pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 John Stanley King 6-10pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm CLINIC BAR & LOUNGE; PS; 760-864-4119 Spotlight hosted by Symara Stone 9pm CORK TREE; PD; 760-779-0123 Live Entertainment 6pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill Baker 6pm DESERT FOX; PS; 760-325-9555 Thirsty Thursdays 8pm DHS SPA LOUNGE; DHS; 760-329-6787 Karaoke w/ DJ Scott 9pm ESCENA LOUNGE & GRILL; PS; 760-992-0002 Lola Rossi, Rob Carter and Denise Motto 5-9pm FIRECLIFF; PD; 760-773-6565 Sonny Evaro 6pm THE GRILL ON MAIN; LQ; 760-777-7773 Rob Martinez & Todd Ashley 8:30pm HARD ROCK HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9676 Industry Night w/ Karaoke in the Lobby 7pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Greasetrap, Buddy Banter, Doc Ellis & The No Nos 9pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760-3456466 Frank Di Salvo 6pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Karaoke w/ Roberto 8pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-325-2794 Hot Rox LAVENDER BISTRO; LQ; 760-564-5353 Bob Allen in the lounge and Tom on the patio 6pm LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-345-2450 Country Night w/ Shotgun Wedding 8pm THE LOUNGE, AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 888-9991995 Nash with Quinto Menguante 8-1am MARGARITA’S; PS; 760-778-3500 Live Music 6pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm MIRAMONTE RESORT; IW; 760-341-7200 “Sassy & Sultry” featuring Gina Carey 5-8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8pm-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 The

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Kenneth Brian Band, Travis Stephens & Lillie Mae Rische 8pm PURPLE ROOM@CLUB TRINIDAD; PS; 760327-1161ext.230 Machin’ 7pm RIVIERA RESORT & SPA; PS; 760-327-8311 Martin Ross 6pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Evaro Brothers 8pm SCHMIDY’S; PD; 760-837-3800 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-341-3560 Dude Jones 6pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 Karaoke w/ T-Bone 8-12am VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Carolyn Martinez & The Trio 6:30pm VILLAGE PUB; PS; 760-323-3265 DJ Khodi Rayne 4:30-9pm, Nite Fixx 9-2am VUE GRILLE & BAR; IW; 760-834-3800 Casey 5:30pm, Slim Man Solo Show 7-10pm WESTIN MISSION HILLS; RM; 760-328-5955 Michael Keeth 6-10pm WOODY’S BURGER; PS; 760-230-0188 Bill Saitta & Friends 7pm ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 Spring Break Party w/ Mr. Miami and The Mixicans 9pm

FRI APRIL 4 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Dana Larson 6pm 19TH HOLE; PD; 760-772-6696 Karaoke w/ T Bone 9pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 The Full House Band w/ Nena Anderson 8pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Karaoke w/ AJ The KJ 8-12am AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Nash 8pm BAR; PS; 760-537-7337 Shon Tomlin 10pm BILLY REED’S; PS; 760-325-1946 Live Music 6-10pm BLUE BAR, SPOTLIGHT 29; INDIO; 760-7755566 DJ PWee 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 CLINIC BAR & LOUNGE; PS; 760-864-4119 DJ 9pm CORK TREE; PD; 760-779-0123 Live Entertainment 6pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill Baker 6pm DATE SHED; IND; 760-775-6699 DICKIE O’NEALS IRISH PUB; PS; 760-3252600 Lassie Jo’s Best Damn Karaoke 7pm

EL MEXICALI CAFÉ 2; IND; 760-342-2333 Cesar Daniel Lopez on the harp 6-9pm FIRECLIFF; PD; 760-773-6565 Sonny Evaro 6pm THE GRILL ON MAIN; LQ; 760-777-7773 House Band 8:45pm HAMILTON’S; LQ; 760-698-8303 T.B.A. 8:30pm HARD ROCK HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9676 DJ Colourvision 9pm Lobby, DJ Shasta & MC Esjay 11pm Lobby THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 War Drum, Jeffertittis Nile and Fever Dog 9pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760-3456466 Frank Di Salvo 6pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Live DJ 8:30pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 T.B.A. 7:30pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Palm Springs Sound Company,in the afternoon,Hot Rox,in the night LAVENDER BISTRO; LQ; 760-564-5353 Bob Allen 6pm LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-345-2450 Reall Deall 9pm THE LOUNGE; AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 888-9991995 Pop Vinyl 9pm MARGARITA’S; PS; 760-778-3500 Live Music 6pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760-3274080 T.B.A. 9pm PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB; PD; 760-3450222 Meltdown 6:30pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 Ivory DeVille 8pm PJ’S SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-228-1199 T.B.A. 9pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm PURPLE ROOM@CLUB TRINIDAD; PS; 760327-1161ext.230 The Gand Band 6pm RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 T.B.A. 9pm RIVIERA RESORT & SPA; PS; 760-327-8311 Martin Ross Starlite Lounge 6pm, Rebecca Jade Sidebar Patio 7pm, Lance Dieckmann Sidebar Lounge 10pm, DJ Sweet Brush Starlite Lounge 10pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Evaro Brothers 8pm SCHMIDY’S; PD; 760-837-3800 Machin’, Monkey and California Celts 9pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; LQ; 760-777-1601 Barry Baughn Blues 8-11pm SOUL OF MEXICO; IND; 760-200-8787 Latin Rock 10pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 Demetrious and Co. TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 T.B.A. 9pm TILTED KILT; PD; 760-773-5458 Tilted@Night 10pm TRILUSSA ITALIAN RISTORANTE; PS; 760328-2300 Julius & Sylvia Music Duo 6-10pm VIBE; MORONGO CASINO; CAB; 951-755-5391 The Rick Whitfield Band 10pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Pat Rizzo & All That Jazz Band 6:30pm

VILLAGE PUB; PS; 760-323-3265 T.B.A. 1:304:30pm, Nite Fixx 9-2am, DJ Anwaar Hines 9-2am VUE GRILLE & BAR; IW; 760-834-3800 Inca Kings 5:30pm, John McCormick & The Mac Band w/ DJ Randy Johnson 9:30pm WILLIE BOYS; MV; 760-363-3343 Walt Young 6pm, Stomp Out Cancer Country Show 8pm THE WINE BAR AT OLD TOWN; LQ; 760-5642201 Rob & jb 7-10pm WOODY’S BURGER; PS; 760-230-0188 Rose Mallet 6:30pm ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 Girl’s Night out w/ The Men on the Hollywood Strip 9pm

SAT APRIL 5 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Bev & Bill 6pm 19TH HOLE; PD; 760-772-6696 Karaoke w/ T-Bone 9pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Family Vacation noon poolside, T.B.A. 10pm amigo room AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Cabaret on the Green w/ Les Michaels & Joel Baker 7-10pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Chix Mix 8pm BAR; PS; 760-537-7337 Closed for private party 10pm BILLY REED’S; PS; 760-325-1946 Live Music 6-10pm BLUE BAR; SPOTLIGHT 29; IND; 760-7755566 DJ PWee BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 Steve Madaio 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 CLINIC BAR & LOUNGE; PS; 760-864-4119 House Party w/ The House Whores 9pm CORK TREE; PD; 760-779-0123 Live Entertainment 6:30-9:30pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill Baker 6pm DATE SHED; IND; 760-775-6699 9pm DHS SPA LOUNGE; DHS; 760-329-6787 Karaoke w/ DJ Scott 9pm DICKIE O’NEALS IRISH PUB; PS; 760-3252600 T.B.A. 8pm EL MEXICALI CAFÉ 2; IND; 760-342-2333 Cesar Daniel Lopez on the harp 6-9pm FIRECLIFF; PD; 760-773-6565 Sonny Evaro 6pm FIRESIDE LOUNGE; PS; 760-327-1700 T.B.A. 9pm THE GRILL ON MAIN; LQ; 760-777-7773 The Refills 8:45pm THE GROOVE LOUNGE; SPOTLIGHT 29; INDIO; 760-775-5566 DJ 8pm HAMILTON’S; LQ; 760-698-8303 Eevaan Tre & The Show 8pm HARD ROCK HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9676 DJ Colourvision w/ DJ Kid Wonder, 11am poolside, 9pm Lobby THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Rockabilly Night w/ The Deadbeat Daddies 9pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760-3456466 Frank Di Salvo 6pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 T.B.A. 8pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 T.B.A. 6pm, Karaoke w/ Roberto 8pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-325-

2794 Palm Springs Sound Company,in the afternoon,Hot Rox,in the night LAVENDER BISTRO; LQ; 760-564-5353 Bob Allen 6pm LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-345-2450 Reall Deall 9pm THE LOUNGE, AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 888-9991995 Pop Vinyl 9pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm MARGARITA’S; PS; 760-778-3500 Live Music 6pm 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 T.B.A. 9pm PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB; PD; 760-3450222 Roadrunners 6:30pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 The Shadow Mountain Band 5pm, Chris Laterzo & Zachariah plus The Lobos Riders 8pm PJ’S SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-228-1199 Aced-Hi 9pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Desert Storm Tour w/ J Patron, Thr3 Strykes and more.. 9pm PURPLE ROOM@CLUB TRINIDAD; PS; 760327-1161ext.230 The Gand Band 9pm RENAISSANCE PALM; PS; 760-322-6100 Art of Sax featuring Sax Man Will Donato & Eddie Reddick 7-10pm RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 T.B.A. 9pm RIVIERA RESORT & SPA; PS; 760-327-8311 Martin Ross, Starlite Lounge 6pm,Rebecca Jade, Sidebar Patio 7pm, Lance Dieckmann Sidebar Lounge 10pm, DJ Shasta, Starlite Lounge 10pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Evaro Brothers 8pm SCHMIDY’S; PD; 760-837-3800 The Hellions, The Hick Ups and Batskinners 9pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; LQ; 760-777-1601 Barry Baughn Blues 8-11pm SIDEWINDER GRILL; DHS; 760-329-7929 Karaoke w/ Milly G 6pm SOUL OF MEXICO; IND; 760-200-8787 Latin Music 10pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 Dude Jones 6pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 T.B.A. 9pm TILTED KILT; PD; 760-773-5458 Tilted@Night 9pm TRILUSSA ITALIAN RISTORANTE; PS; 760328-2300 Julius & Sylvia Music Duo 6-10pm VIBE, MORONGO CASINO; CAB; 951-7555391 DJ Hektik 10pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Pat Rizzo & All That Jazz Band 6:30pm VILLAGE PUB; PS; 760-323-3265 Rob & JB 1:30-4:30pm, Nite Fixx 9-2am, DJ Anwaar Hines 9-2am VUE GRILLE & BAR; IW; 760-834-3800 Jeff 5:30pm, Slim Man 9:30pm WILLIE BOYS; MV; 760-363-3343 Walt Young 6pm, Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm THE WINE BAR AT OLD TOWN; LQ; 760-5642201 Scott Carter 7-10pm WOODY’S BURGER; PS; 760-230-0188 Stanley Butler Band 7pm ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 DJ PJ 9pm

April 3 to April 9, 2014

SUN APRIL 6 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Bob & Allison 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Intoxica Radio Live w/ Howie Pyro 10pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 The Judy Show 7:30pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 Steve Madaio 6-10pm CASCADE LOUNGE, SPA RESORT; PS; 888999-1995 Nash with Quinto Menguante 9pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Joe Jaggi 6pm DHS SPA LOUNGE; DHS; 760-329-6787 Karaoke 9pm EL MEXICALI CAFÉ 2; IND; 760-342-2333 Cesar Daniel Lopez on the harp 6-9pm FIRECLIFF; PD; 760-773-6565 Hal Sweasey 6pm HARD ROCK HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9676 DJ Colourvision w/ Kid Wonder 11am poolside INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760-3456466 Ted Herman’s Big Band w/ Frank DiSalvo 6pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Open Jam 6pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Palm Springs Sound Company,in the afternoon,Hot Rox,in the night

COME JOIN US FOR THE FUN!!

• 14 flat screen televisions • NTN Trivia and poker with QB1

While you are here you can try one of our ten tap beer selections from a frosty cold glass or choose one of our 30 tequilas or vodkas to make your favorite cocktail.

PLAYOFFS I THE PLAC S E TO BE

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continue to page 24

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April 3 to April 9, 2014

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The Pampered Palate

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

April 3 to April 9, 2014

By David Wayne

Greek Islands

I

had the honor of having dinner this week with the sweetest most beautiful person I know, my Mom! She was a delightful companion as we dined at the Greek Islands restaurant in Palm Springs.

Opened three years ago in La Plaza in Palm Springs, it is now located in a cute building tucked beside another building on Andreas Road, between Indian and Palm Canyon.

We sat on the nice spacious patio and were greeted by the owner Dimitri. What a nice gentleman, and his sweet, pretty wife Sara was there helping. James Lingner was our server, and started us off with drinks.

My mother chose a glass of wine from their own family label; owned by Dimitri’s cousin, who has his own vineyard. She had two glasses over the course of the evening, one was a pinot grigio called Roditas, a bit dry and full flavored. The other was Assyrtiko, a bit sweeter with fruitier notes. She enjoyed both.

We started our meal off with two amazing appetizers, the first was Tyrokafteri, a variety of mild and sharp feta cheese with roasted jalapeno and red peppers whipped to perfection. Tatziki, Tyrokafteri, Melitzanosalata, and Taramasalata, were the four appetizers in the variety plate.

The other was Kalamarakia Tiganita, tender calamari seasoned and lightly pan fried. The variety plate was served with pita bread and had me longing for more. My mother really loved the calamari, which had sliced pieces, but also whole little squids. I couldn’t bring

myself to eat the whole pieces, but my mom loved them and said they were delicious.

We also shared a Greek Salad, organic mix greens with grilled zucchini, red peppers, onions, mushrooms, extra virgin

olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. The salad was a classic and complemented the appetizers perfectly.

For our main course my Mom had lamb, and I had Moussaka. Both were authentic Greek dishes, made to perfection and served beautifully and were hot and tasty.

My mom had a delicious Lamb Shank they call Lamb Giovetsi, which is baby lamb oven baked with Osso, fresh tomato sauce, and feta cheese, served in a clay pot. I devoured their Moussaka, a classic Greek dish with a layer of ground meat, eggplant, and potatoes topped with Bechamel sauce and oven baked.

We were so stuffed and pleased with the meal we took our desserts home, which were Baklava and Galactobureko, a creamy vanilla custard on fillo. We are so grateful to Dimitri and Sara for having us at their incredible, beautiful restaurant.

Open seven days a week 11:00am – 9:00pm weekdays 11:00am - 10:00pm Saturday and Sunday Located at: 139 E. Andreas Road, Palm Springs Walk-ins are welcome or call 760-4133811 for reservations.

“THE BEST MEXICAN FOOD THE WEST HAS TO OFFER!” Our wonderful staff is committed to giving you the best dining experience. We have a nicely stocked bar and great desserts as well. Our authentic mexican food main courses are truly mouth watering.

We have an award winning sweet corn tamale that you just have to try for yourself.

Once you dine at Pueblo Viejo Grill, you'll be back for more soon!

3PM TO 6PM

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2 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU:

36901 COOK ST. STE.#3 PALM DESERT, CA 92211 (760)836-1133

81931 HIGHWAY 111 INDIO, CA 92201 (760)342-5900

WWW.PUEBLOVIEJOGRILL.COM

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21

April 3 to April 9, 2014

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Movie Reviews with Robin E. Simmons

A SLEW OF NEW BLU FOR YOU

THE HOBBIT: THE DESOLATION OF SMAUG

Adventure abounds in the second chapter of the trilogy film adaptation of the enduringly popular literary masterpiece “The Hobbit,” by J.R.R. Tolkien. Bilbo Baggins, Gandalf and the Company of Dwarves continue their quest through Middle Earth to reclaim the Lonely Mountain and the lost Dwarf Kingdom of Erebor.

Having survived the beginning of their unexpected journey, the Company – led

by Thorin Oakenshield -- travels East, encountering along the way skin-changer Beorn and a swarm of giant Spiders in the treacherous forest of Mirkwood.

After escaping by the dangerous Woodelves, the Dwarves journey to Lake-town, and finally to the Lonely Mountain itself, where they must face the greatest danger of all -- a creature more terrifying than any other; one which will test not only the depth of their courage but the limits if their friendship and the wisdom of the journey itself – the Dragon Smaug!

Director Peter Jackson is a modern wizard. He has the power to make vividly real imaginary worlds that we have only encountered on the page. I am not yet

jaded by the richly detailed aural and visual magic that sweeps the viewer on this extraordinary adventure with characters we both love -- and fear. This is truly the golden age of filmmaking.

Wonderful extras include on set visits and production videos in which Peter Jackson gives an inside look at the making of the film.

I’m not a big fan of 3D on the theater screen or home screen, but there are exceptions. GRAVITY was one. The Hobbit films are the other. The technical quality is exquisite and on a large display, you will be enveloped by Tolkien’s mythic and meaningful world. Produced by New Line Cinema and MGM, distributed by Warner Home Video. Blue-ray 3D. THE INVISIBLE WOMAN

Screeners No.106

ANCHORMAN 2: THE LEGEND CONTINUES

This silly bag of nonsense has more dead spaces than laughs. But with three (count ‘em, three) versions of the film, including a “Super-Sized R-Rated” version “with 763 new jokes,” it’s inevitable there are some laugh-out-loud moments. For me, the entire enterprise is like being assaulted with a non-stop barrage of sticky Nerf balls. In other words, it’s kind of annoying,

DNA is definitely there in this odd mix of live action, puppets and stop-motion. It all begins when Alice naps near a stream and apparently dreams she follows a stuffed toy rabbit into a fantastic and magical world where she encounters decidedly weird, nightmarish and overtly frightening characters including a clearly deranged Mad Hatter. Her adventures end when she’s put on trial before the King and Queen of Hearts.

I first saw this unsettling film odyssey when it was first released in 1988 and it has never left my mind. I have no idea if there’s specific meaning in it, but for me, it does reflect the frightening journey of childhood that we only see clearly when we look back on our early years. The movie is a nice mix of Freudian and Jungian metaphors and dream imagery, although I doubt either man would embrace it as a children’s movie.

First Run Features. Blu-ray.

SNAKE AND MONGOO$E

Based on the true story of a young actress’ exciting but delicate relationship with the very famous writer Charles Dickens.

Ralph Feinnes stars as Dickens as well as directs. Felicity Jones is his mistress Nelly Ternan. Kristen Scott Thomas plays Nellie’s concerned but tolerant mother. I loved this atmospheric, period film that explores the territory between a fragile, smitten young woman and a man burdened with fame but emotionally isolated and controlling.

Among the several extras is a revealing commentary with Feinnes and Jones. Sony.

Blu-ray.

exceedingly weird and intermittently funny.

The plot barely exists, but the main quest is about Ron’s return to the anchor desk, this time with a fledgling 24-hour news cable start up. It’s set in the 80s. He has his nitwit co-anchor pals (Steve Carrell, Paul Rudd and David Koechner) with him and there’s no attempt to keep it classy. Surprise cameos abound in the mini-apocalyptic climax. All too brief are some scathing but obvious jabs at faux news channels that cater to the least common denominator of empty content that viewers apparently want. Paramount.

Blu-ray.

ALICE

This minor entry has built a mini-cult following. It’s a true story about the “greatest rivalry and friendship in drag-racing history” between Tom “The Mongoose” McEwen (Richard Anatomy) and Don “The Snake” Prudhomme (Jesse Williams). The cool 60s and 70s soundtrack nicely captures the era.

I loved hearing again ZZ Top’s “I’m Bad, I’m Nationwide.” Anchor Bay. Blu-ray.

Also newly available is 47 RONIN with some great special effects, Keanu Reeves and a sometimes murky story.

22

Czech filmmaker Jan Svankmajer, who first garnered attention with his surrealistic short films, made his feature film debut in 1988 with ALICE (also known as Neco z Alenky), an outrageously grotesque peek into the shadowy corners of a child’s mind. You may barely recognize Lewis Carroll’s beloved literary work, but the

Comments? robinesimmons@aol.com

Book Review

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

April 3 to April 9, 2014

By Heidi Simmons

Pealing Away the Bark

C

ontrolled, contained and courageous, the short story has the ability to tap the zeitgeist and deliver a punch that resonates in the solar plexus for a duration that can surpasses a longer, fully-novelized narrative form.

Amazingly, Lorrie Moore does exactly that in her new collection of stories, Bark (Knoff, 192 pages).

In eight stories, Moore boldly confronts the reality of middle age and the fading dreams of one’s golden years. Each story packs a potency revealing something profoundly present in the frail and broken human condition.

The first story in the collection is “Debarking.” Ira is divorced, but still wears his wedding ring. He claims to not be able to remove it because his fingers have swelled.

When his good friend invites him to join a small dinner party for Lent, Ira reluctantly goes to the goyish event.

Ira meets pretty Wasp Zora, a divorced Pediatrician.

Painfully awkward and uncomfortable, he attempts to date Zora.

Out of the dating loop and hardly suave or cool, Ira finds himself caught up in a bizarre relationship. As Ira adjusts to his new life as a part time father of a ten-year-old daughter as well as boyfriend, he becomes

Bark

By Lorrie Moore stories aware that Zora may be seriously crazy.

The beauty in this story is how Ira’s character begins weak and pathetic, but blossoms as he recognizes Zora’s flaws and creepy idiosyncrasies. Perhaps he’s not so bad. The story takes place during the Iraq war with a layered theme of loss, the meaning of Lent and the promise of a Messiah. Without it being mentioned, the reader knows Ira’s ring will certainly come off.

In “Wings,” the characters are a vagabond couple in their late 30s on the cusp of giving up their dreams of being professional musicians, a “career” that never fully came to fruition. KC and Dench are temporarily living at a house while the owner is away. The “friend’s” home is in a

nice neighborhood with beautiful houses.

The couple are clearly outsiders in the welloff, groomed community.

Each morning, KC scrounges money for a cup of coffee. She walks with her dog to the corner coffee shop and drinks only half the cup saving the rest for Dench. On her regular morning trek, she meets Milton, an old man who lives in a home so big it has wings.

Rich and lonely, Milton strikes up a friendship with KC and eventually invites her in for blueberry muffins. This unlikely and uncomfortable relationship becomes an issue between KC and Dench. Dench believes it’s okay to use the old man and that maybe there’s a way to profit from the friendship. This causes KC to reevaluate her lifestyle and relationship with Dench. She never thought of herself as someone to take advantage of a person in that way. KC reluctantly nurtures the relationship with Milton and does in fact end up with his entire estate.

The beauty of this sordid tale is that KC does the right thing and sadly matures without Dench or a music career. What Moore does so well here in these characters is twist the fairytale theme of “happily ever after” and then drops it hard on its head.

Finally, KC may have gotten the life she needed, but it’s unclear if it’s what she actually wanted.

Moore’s dialogue between KC and Dench reveals their intelligence, love and charm. It is witty, hip and intimate. But underneath lurks the sadness of a life and love that can never be.

“Thanks For Having Me” reaches the subtle depths of a maturing relationship between a single mother and her beautiful adult daughter. The two attend the second wedding of their former nanny, a Brazilian hottie and heart-breaker. The event is an odd gathering of people and becomes a very strange affair. The mother-daughter duo find common ground as well as an unspoken appreciation for each other and the madness of life.

“Foes” is about an uncomfortable political encounter at a fundraiser that goes from polite to crazy. “The Juniper Tree” is a ghost story in which a few good friends get together and visit their friend and colleague who has in fact passed away. “Subject to

Search” is about long time friends who finally meet as lovers only to be separated by the events in the Middle East. “Paper Losses” finds a woman who refuses to divorce and insists on going on the family vacation. “Referential” tells the story of a mother whose son is institutionalized and her boyfriend who no longer wants to be a part of the family. Every story strikes a familiar cord and resonates with a contemporary intensity. If you don’t recognize yourself in these stories, you will meet people you know.

So much of Moore’s story is not on the page but between the lines. It is through her character’s observations and actions that she reveals insight, wisdom and understanding. Sometimes it’s painful and sometimes it’s beautiful. But it is always honest, if not sad. No matter the subject, Moore conjures powerful magic with words that leaves the reader dazzled, intrigued and moved.

All eight stories work in similarly compelling ways, yet are vastly different.

There are lines that linger and haunt.

Moore knows her subject – which seems to be middle-aged angst -- well and delivers a gripping and entertaining read around relationships that form our existence both for better and worse.

I like to think the title Bark is about the hardened outside we build in order to protect our soft inside as we slowly grow, branch and learn the tougher lessons in life.

Or perhaps it is the loud screech of terror as we reluctantly embrace our mortality.

Lorrie Moore will be attending the Second Annual Rancho Mirage Writers Festival next January. Tickets are still available.

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continued from page 19 LAVENDER BISTRO; LQ; 760-564-5353 Bob Allen 6pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Sunday Jam 4-8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Golden Era Karaoke 4-7pm, Karaoke 8pm-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 The John McCormick Band 7pm THE NEW YORK COMPANY RESTAURANT; PS; 760-778-7789 Lili Rose 7pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760-3274080 Longest Running Jam Session in the valley. Hosted by JB, Sign up 6pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 The Sunday Band 7pm PURPLE ROOM@CLUB TRINIDAD; PS; 760327-1161ext.230 The Judy Show 5:30pm, Judy After Dark 9pm RIVIERA RESORT & SPA; PS; 760-327-4080 Cool Down Jam w/ Jeanette Harris, Stellita & Rebecca Jade and Art of Sax Sidebar Patio 5pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Eddie Gee 7pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 Smooth Brothers TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 Reaction 5-8pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Jazz Time Band 2-5pm, John Stanley King 6pm VILLAGE PUB; PS; 760-323-3265 Scott Carter 1:30-4:30pm, Rob & JB 4:30-9pm, DJ Idol Eyez 9-2am VUE GRILLE & BAR; IW; 760-834-3800 Ben 11am, The Carmens 6:30pm WILLIE BOYS; MV; 760-363-3343 Line Dancing w/ Tina 5:30-9pm THE WINE BAR AT OLD TOWN; LQ; 760-5642201 Michael Keeth w/ Martin Barrera 6-10pm WOODY’S BURGER; PS; 760-230-0188 The Smooth Brothers 6pm

MON APRIL 7 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Bonny Jean 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Joe Jaggi 6pm FIRECLIFF; PD; 760-773-6565 Hal Sweasey 6pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760345-6466 Ron Kalina’s World Class Jazz Trio 6pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-325-2794 Hot Rox LAVENDER BISTRO; LQ; 760-564-5353 Mark Gregg 5pm, lounge, Bob Allen 6pm outside patio NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8pm-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 7pm RIVIERA RESORT & SPA; PS; 760-327-4080 Hot as Hell Pool Party w/ Zulluu 7pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 T.B.A. 6pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 T.B.A. 7pm VILLAGE PUB; PS; 760-323-3265 DJ Khodi Rayne 4:30-2am, Michael James & 3sum 9-2am WESTIN MISSION HILLS; RM; 760-328-5955 Art of Sax 8-11pm WOODY’S BURGER; PS; 760-230-0188 Rose Mallet 6:30pm

TUE APRIL 8 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Dana Larson 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Ace Karaoke with Kiesha 9pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Mikole Karr’s Jazz Quartet 6pm

AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Bella da Ball Dinner Revue w/ guest performers 7:30pm BAR; PS; 760-537-7337 Vinyl Sessions 8pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 Stanley Butler Trio 6-10pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Joe Jaggi 6pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill Baker 6pm ESCENA LOUNGE & GRILL; PS; 760-9920002 John Stanley King 5-9pm FIRECLIFF; PD; 760-773-6565 Hal Sweasey 6pm FIRESIDE LOUNGE; PS; 760-327-1700 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke INDIAN CANYONS GOLF RESORT; PS; 760833-8700 DJ Randy Johnson 6-9pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760345-6466 Michael D’Angelo 6pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Ted Quinn’s Open Mic Reality Show Jam 8pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Dana Larson 6:30pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-325-2794 Palm Springs Sound Company LAVENDER BISTRO; LQ; 760-564-5353 Mark Gregg 5pm, Bob Allen 6pm outside patio NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8pm-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Tim Burleson 7:45 PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760-3274080 Eclectic Tuesdays. Singer/songwriter night. All acts welcome. Hosted by JB, Sign up 7pm PURPLE ROOM@CLUB TRINIDAD; PS; 760327-1161ext.230 The David Ring Trio 6:30pm RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 Open Mic 8pm SCHMIDY’S; PD; 760-837-3800 Open Mic 8pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 Demetrious and Co. VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770

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www.coachellavalleyweekly.com Rodeo Drive’s Happy Hour Cabaret 4pm, Michael Dees & Trio 7pm VILLAGE PUB; PS; 760-323-3265 Live entertainment VUE GRILLE & BAR; IW; 760-834-3800 Einstein 5:30pm WOODY’S BURGER; PS; 760-230-0188 Trish Hatley 6pm

WED APRIL 9 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Dan Horn 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Industry Night w/ The Rebel Noise 8pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Mikole Carr AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Paula Prince 7pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 Nicky Vallee & Willy B 6-10pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm CLINIC BAR & LOUNGE; PS; 760-864-4119 T.B.A. 9pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill Baker 6pm ESCENA LOUNGE & GRILL; PS; 760-9920002 Rose Mallet 5-9pm FIRECLIFF; PD; 760-773-6565 Sonny Evaro 6pm HAMILTON’S SPORTS BAR & GRILL; LQ; 760-698-8303 Karaoke w/ T-Bone 8:3012:30am THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Open Mic 8pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760345-6466 Rich Bono & Poupee Boccaccio 6pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Live Music KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Karaoke w/ Roberto 7pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-325-2794 Hot Rox

LAVENDER BISTRO; LQ; 760-564-5353 Bob Allen in the lounge and Tom on the patio 6pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 “Sing Jam” w/ Michael Healy 8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Golden Era Karaoke 4-7pm, Karaoke 8pm-1:15am Singles Night !!!

THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm NYPD; PS; 760-778-6973 Live DJ 9pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 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 PURPLE ROOM@CLUB TRINIDAD; PS; 760-327-1161ext.230 Michael Holmes Trio 6:30pm RIVIERA RESORT & SPA; PS; 760-327-4080 Martin Ross, Starlite Lounge 5pm, Open Mic w/ Esjay Jones, Sidebar 7pm SCHMIDY’S; PD; 760-837-3800 D Phillips Band 9pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 Straight Ahead Jazz VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Pat Rizzo & All That Jazz Band 6:30pm VILLAGE PUB; PS; 760-323-3265 DJ Khodi Rayne 4:30-2am, Nite Fixx 9-2am VUE GRILLE & BAR; IW; 760-834-3800 Ben 5:30pm WESTIN MISSION HILLS; RM; 760-328-5955 Art of Sax 7-10pm WILLIE BOYS; MV; 760-363-3343 Karaoke WOODY’S BURGER; PS; 760-230-0188 Brian Nova Trio Jazz 6pm

continued from page 13

story-telling music that he was improvising in front of me. I approached him after he played and asked if he might like to play some slide on our album, and he said yes. I traveled out to his home in Sky Valley one day with my portable studio setup, and he played slide over a couple of our songs. While I was there with him he suggested I extend my stay and we make some more music together. I ended up renting a house in Desert Hot Springs for a week or so, and we set-up a make shift studio.

Riz helped me work on some of the lyrics for the album, as well as playing more slide and other assorted things on the record. Also during that time we worked on five or six pieces of music that are totally separate from Low Fly Incline. We named the project Mutual Theft Society, and will be releasing some of that music in the near future.

Other guests on the album include Scott playing bass on one song, and talk-box on another. We also had Steve Shigley from Joshua Tree play metal sculptures, and John Jefferies from Pioneertown tell stories about the desert over one of our longer more atmospheric pieces.

RL: What is the title of the first record you came here and recorded with Scott in 2012?

TEREK: The title of the first album is Other Desert City. I guess that might seem trite to some people, as it is obviously a reference to the ‘other desert cities’ sign that I drove past so much when I was here last time. It’s also the name of one of the songs on the album, and was the only song on the record that was completely written and recorded from scratch in the desert. It seemed fitting.

RL: Are Vinnie The Rune and Burn the Timber going to be included on this new record?

TEREK: Yes both those songs are taken from the first album.

RL: Tell me about your label, Rubber Records.

Did they help get you here to do this record?

TEREK: No they didn’t. Rubber Records are the parent label to my own label (Freakshow Disco Productions). I generally put all the recording stuff together myself and they leave me to it. They help out when I get to the point of needing assistance with pressing, distribution and promotion.

RL: What inspired the name, Low Fly Incline?

TEREK: I was loading my equipment out of a venue back home, and I overheard a friend (Redro Redriguez) saying to another friend that his studio was for bands that were “lo-fi inclined”. I just liked the way that sounded, so I played with the wording a little to make it Low Fly Incline.

RL: If this IS your debut record, what is the record you came here and recorded in 2012? I am just a little confused...

TEREK: It is a little confusing. In 2012 I traveled here by myself to make an album of music that I was working on. We weren’t really a band at that point. It was just me making a bunch of noise out in the desert. As soon as I got back to Australia, I teamed up with my good friend (Mad) Mitch McGregor to form a two-piece band that could perform the music I had recorded with Scott. This then became Low Fly Incline, and we have been

playing shows regularly around Australia ever since. The first album is just being released now, as there were some delays due to boring record company stuff which I won’t get into here. I am now back in the desert with Mitch, and we will be starting work together with Scott next week on our second album, that probably won’t come out until 2015. We’ll probably do most of the vocals and mixing back in Australia, and finish it properly by the end of the year.

RL: What is it like working with Scott Reeder who has arguably helped shape and define desert rock as both a musician and a producer?

TEREK: It was one of the great music experiences of my life so far. Not only is Scott a great musician, engineer and producer as I’m sure everyone out here is well aware, he is one of the nicest people I’ve had the pleasure of working with. From the moment I met him, both he and his wife Rene made us feel like friends and family.

Coming back here for the second time, it’s not only fun to be working in this environment again, but great to catch up with the good friends I made here last time.

RL: Your website says that we can expect some desert shows while you are here.....where and when?

TEREK: Well that’s kind of an exaggeration really. We’re going to get up and play a few songs at as many of the open mics as possible (Pappy & Harriet’s, The Hood, etc), but we don’t really have any proper shows lined up. We’re keen to play absolutely anywhere and everywhere while we’re here though, so if there are any desert bands reading this that want us to come play with them in the next few weeks, please let us know. Or even if you want to have come set up in your yard and play! We’ll do it!

RL: Tarek, do you do the writing? Or is it a team effort?

continued from page 11

on the last night of the competition, and they had me in the first 60 seconds of play. On an extremely competitive night of truly talented and enjoyable music, One11 hit the stage and it was pure magic.

Front man, Michael Ramirez on guitar and vocals powered each song out with magnetic charm and charisma while the rest of the guys, Evan Boydstun - lead guitar and vocals, Ryan Cenicola - drums and vocals, and Matt Sutton - bass guitar and vocals, matched him gift for gift. The energy was paralyzing, but only for a split second, after which you were moving and cheering to the music.

They went on to play a dynamic set, throwing in an instrumental piece in the middle where the guys showed of their incredible technique but mostly their pure joy of playing music. After being charmed and wooed by Ramirez who engaged the audience like a natural, the audience suddenly became like flies on the wall, witnessing an all heart and soul jam and an amazing intimate musical moment between the players on the stage. “I really love my instrument,” says the front man boyishly. “I’m way more comfortable just playing with the guys. We thought doing an instrumental piece in the middle of the set would keep it from getting boring. We were also able to show a bit of progressive technological skill as we used some of our samples during that song.

I thought the judges might be impressed with that...especially Bruce.”

While this may have been one of the most competitive nights of the competition, I do believe the dynamics that One11 brought to the stage is what made them one of the two bands, along with the Yip Yops, to be selected for the Tachevah showcase. Talking to Ramirez later, he chuckled as he shared, “We probably spent more time arranging the set and coming up with a formula for our time on stage than we did

actually practicing.” One11 first came together in this particular combination of players, opening for Eddie Money at the Palm Desert Civic Center a couple years ago, but as Ramirez went on to say, “We were really excited to play this show since we don’t get to play at ‘home’ often. I was really excited to show how we’ve progressed as a band...to show everyone who we are.”

The main emphasis for these musicians is “authenticity”. Bands like the Arctic Monkeys, Radiohead and The Doors all represent a piece of that raw musical integrity that One11 strives for.

I often don’t like to quote from a band’s website, as I prefer to write from my own perspective. But when the statements are beautifully articulated and are truly representative of the band, like they are in this case, I feel it is absolutely necessary.

Having seen and heard the band and speaking with them on a few occasions now, I can literally hear Michael Ramirez’s voice as I read from their site: “We want to give people something to believe in. In a world where music seems to lose that true

honesty and genuineness, we want to be the band to bring it all back.” Having performed over 200 shows, including the infamous Warped Tour, the passion and love from where their music stems has not faded. “Through all of the excitement... we have never turned our backs on the ideals we started the band with. We are a band built on honesty and sincerity, writing and performing solely from our hearts, minds and instruments.

What truly makes music special is if it is created with a great soul in it, and that it speaks the truth of the voice it is coming from.” one11band.com The Band of Family and Friends I have to give a shout out to the families and friends of these bands based on what I have personally witnessed. The amount of love, support and respect they show these artists has everything to do with their success so far, as well as the amazing opportunities that have yet to come. The future holds great things for each of these bands as crafters of sound and story. With

April 3 to April 9, 2014 TEREK: Mitch helped out with some of the writing on the first album as we were getting started but most of it was me at that point. Now that we are a fully functioning band though, his input is continually a larger part of the writing process. I obviously work more on the lyrics and vocal melodies by myself as I have to perform and sing them, but the newer material we have written, and will be recording over the next few weeks for the second album is very much the product of the two of us playing off each other in the room.

RL: What is the music scene like in Australia?

TEREK: We’re from Melbourne which (for anyone that doesn’t know) is located in furthest south east corner of Australia. The scene there is really active with hundreds or more bands playing in dozens of venues every week. Some of the other cities in Australia are not quite as active, but they all have strong and musically relevant scenes.

Upon closing I would like to say that we desert rock fans welcome bands from all over the world to our desert and look forward to the new LOW FLY INCLINE record with great anticipation. Visit the band at the links below where you can preview tracks from OTHER DESERT CITY. Terek has no idea what he got himself into by stating he will set up anywhere and play. Those of you who know me know I am a shit stirrer and I will probably be working on LFI to get them to preview some of the new material in the live setting before we let them blow out of here and go back home!

LOW FLY INCLINE: facebook.com/lowflyincline freakshowdiscoproductions.com/lowflyincline www.lowflyincline.com RIZ ORKESTRA: facebook.com/riz.orkestra SCOTT REEDER/ SUN AND SAIL CLUB: facebook.com/SunAndSailClub Visit Robin Linn’s Desert Rhythms to read the digital edition of this feature with videos and links!!!! rminjtree@blogspot.com school budget cuts, and fanfare mostly given to those in pursuit of athletics, these parents have not only supported them financially, they BELIEVED in them. Then they let them fly, staying close enough to witness and watch over, but never stepping in the way or trying to bask in any of the light that these artists draw to themselves.

These are the kind of parents, family and friends that celebrate the successes and the heights, but will also be there for the lows, encouraging all them every step of the way, cheering, “You have something of value to offer. Don’t give up.” We should all be so lucky.

Tachevah, Palm Springs Block Party will be held on April 16th starting at 5 pm. Get there early if you like to be close to the stage as last year the concert drew hundreds. The three local bands will be joined by popular Los Angeles based

bands including the neo soul/indie pop group Fritz & The Tantrums and the production and DJ duo, Classixx. Admission is free and will be held at the Spa Resort Casino in Downtown Palm Springs.

Others to thank along with Goldenvoice/AEG Live for bringing this opportunity to our musicians and giving them the coveted exposure are the Desert Sun, Harold Matzner, the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. P.S. Resorts and the City of Palm Springs.

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April 3 to April 9, 2014

Real Estate

March

M

arch is one of our “money maker” months for real estate agents here in the Coachella Valley. It is the middle of our selling season and if the weather cooperates (which it certainly did this year) it typically can be the highest month of the year for making deals and opening escrows.

March for me this year was only an average month and speaking with numerous agents around the valley it soon became clear that it was not the epic comeback month that everyone had hoped for. Whenever this happens I always go back to the data to try and make sense out of the situation. Is it just me or is there something going on out there that I can point to and blame my average month on?

Last month I tried to focus on the positive trend developing by pointing out how the number of residential properties in the Coachella Valley, according to our local MLS, that changed status from “active” to “backup offer” or “pending” (sales under contract, but not yet closed) was increasing. These “sales” had increased from 784 in January to 900 in February. The good news is that trend has continued with 1,070 sales in March showing an increase in sales of 16%. Okay, so the number of sales is going up, so maybe it is just me. But of course that is only half the story. This month I also looked back at the number of sales that closed escrow in the

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Haddon Libby:It’s alllocal

By Bruce cathcart Coachella Valley, or the “solds” as they are more commonly known. In January 2014 we only closed 593 sales (compared to 704 in Jan. 2013), in February 2014 we closed 630 sales (compared to 808 in Feb. 2013), and in March 2014 we closed 748 sales (compared to 940 in Mar. 2013). So while the number of solds is increasing this year, when compared to the same month’s solds from last year, they are 16%, 23%, and 21% LESS! And last year was not considered a good year for sales in our Valley. Taking into account that there are approximately 4,500 licensed brokers and agents who work in the Coachella Valley and are scrambling to close only 748 sales in March makes me think that maybe my average month wasn’t quite as bad as I thought!

Overall inventory available to buyers this month was down only slightly (3%) from approximately 4,318 properties available for sale at the beginning of March to 4,220 properties available for sale at the end of March. This means that the number of new listings that came on the market in March came close, but did not keep up with the number of sales.

So what does this all mean? For the first three months of 2014 the number of sales is increasing each month and the inventory has remained stable. Likewise the number of solds is also increasing each month, but when compared to last year, which was a less than average year for Coachella Valley residential sales, the number of solds this year is down by

it’s your nickel

Diamonds on the Soles of Your Shoes an average of 20%!!! Yes prices are currently up over last year, but based upon these figures the volume of closed sales necessary to sustain a recovery is not happening right now in the Coachella Valley.

On the brighter side, the Bob and Dolores Hope mansion is still available for $34,000,000.00 with a rumor floating around that Hollywood’s royalty may have some interest in the property. But this property is no longer the highest priced home in our valley. Just listed on 2 acres in the Madison Club in La Quinta is 16,235 square foot home with 5 bedrooms and 7 bathrooms for only $39,500,000.00! Don’t hesitate to call me on this one if you are a golfer and the Hope mansion didn’t quite measure up to your expectations!

This month’s top sale went to a home in the Vintage Country Club that included a main house with 4 bedrooms and 9 bathrooms and 3 guest houses totaling 26,000 square feet and a 14 car garage for the paltry sum of $10,450,000.00. 56 homes sold in March for over $1 million dollars and of those 12 sold for over $2 million dollars. If you didn’t get one of

them don’t worry, there are still 250 homes currently for sale for over 2 million dollars out there just waiting for you!

Real Estate Tip of the week: Interest rates have finally started their upward move which will likely have a negative effect on the current market. If you are a buyer that was discouraged by competing with multiple offers and have been sitting on the sidelines, now may be a good time to get back in the game.

Sellers, your selling season may end quicker this year than you expect. If you have been on the market for over a month and haven’t sold your home yet, seriously consider dropping your price to get the deal done!

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

I

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let’s concentrate on what the vacant parcel tax means, and what the money is supposed to do for the city.

DHS currently owns its own police department. While this giant increase in taxes is to be set aside for payments to police and fire departments, no mention is made as to whether or not those will be payments to the county or payments supporting our own police department. A bid is being asked for from the county for police services. Certainly all the alternatives should be examined, but the increase in the parcel tax is no guarantee of ownership over contracting out police department services from the county as it stands. It has taken the

city a decade to build its own force.

There are those who argue that the parcel tax will discourage development, but that depends on who is holding the land now, who is developing, and whether or not that is the same individual. If you currently hold many acres and see a tenfold increase in holding land you are not developing for lack of funding, you are likely going to sell that land. Anyone buying such a parcel is likely to want to develop it because they surely don’t want big overhead on empty land. Many of us are lucky just to own our home much less worry about being taxed on our vast holdings of vacant land, but development to the area directly impacts home values, quality of life, employment, and a future for DHS. The real question here is not whether or not the city needs funding. The best analysis is one that includes a long term fiscal plan that has taxes being used for more than services. PS had a rise in the sales tax to make their new Mall happen. That is a visible improvement. The infrastructure of DHS is crumbled and far below that of other Coachella Valley cities. Money should be raised, yes, but then used for what? To pay off bad management and old debts without any three dimensional assets is not the wisest choice. These are the questions

A

s reported by NASA, Earth is warming at its fastest rates in over 1,300 years. This additional heat in the atmosphere has caused seas to rise by nearly 7 inches over the last century due to the melting polar caps. Resultantly, aberrant weather patterns are happening with increased frequency. Left unchecked, the continued warming of Earth will lead to deadly disruptions in food and water supplies globally.

It is no longer questioned by most scientific organizations that the burning of fossil fuels is a key contributor to global warming and potentially dangerous future events. As such, for global survival, we need to reduce pollutants in the air. This is best done by moving toward renewable fuels.

At present, about one seventh of the world’s energy usage is from renewables.

Hydropower is the most common renewable source accounting for nearly 75% of all renewable energy.

As those of us residing in the Coachella Valley know, the last ten years have seen explosive growth in the use of solar and wind power. Other places like Brazil have seen an explosion in the use of biofuels, an energy type that has enriched their country greatly lifting many from poverty.

Another type of renewable energy will be debuting later this year - Solepower - electric

generators imbedded in your shoes.

Created by two 2012 graduates of Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Hahna Alexander and Matthew Stanton, Solepower captures kinetic energy by embedding an electromagnetic generator in the heel of your shoe’s sole. Each step pushes on a generator that spins and creates 20 watts of energy per step. This energy is then stored in a lithium battery that can be used to recharge a smartphone or power a lightbulb. At present, a 2 1/2 mile walk is sufficient to fully recharge a smartphone.

While this may not be a life changing event for you, this technology will have a life changing impact in places where electricity is limited or not available. For example, in Kenya 84% of all people have cell phones but only 14% have reliable access to electricity. In other underdeveloped areas of the world, the ability to create energy by simply walking will create enough electricity to power their evening lighting while eliminating the need for costly kerosene.

Here in the United States, Solepower will be targeting hikers and outdoor enthusiasts in the sale of their sole inserts. Expected to hit stores later this year, a set of these insoles will cost approximately $150. As Alexander and Stanton want to get these shoe-powered electricity generators onto the feet of the impoverished

globally, for every pair that you buy, Solepower will heavily subsidize the sale of a set in an underdeveloped area of the world ($30).

In Japan, a different type of foot energy is being tested by the East Japan Railway Company (JR East). In their Tokyo station, JR East installed a floor that captures the energy created when train passengers walk to and from each train. The pressure caused by each step is then used to create the electricity that is used to power the train station. Termed

piezoelectricity, this type of electricity is created via pressure.

If these two advances in renewable energies do not seem like something out of a science fiction novel to you, this next one might: energy created from noise.

In early testing, scientists are finding that sound waves create pressure just like footsteps. The challenge is in creating the cost effective materials that can capture this energy and convert it to electricity.

While the end of global warming may not be a step away, solutions are coming at a pace that is faster than most think.

Dale Gribow On The Law

By john Paul Valdez

Public Safety Revenue Measure – 10 times the tax in DHS

n 2010, the 39 dollar an acre vacant parcel tax was extended to 2020. That was seen as an enormous tax windfall to the city at the time. Now, in failing financial circumstances, the city is reaching out with new taxes or “revenues” by asking the public on a ballot measure to increase the vacant parcel tax from 39 dollars to 370 dollars per acre. On a percentage basis, that’s quite a leap.

The city government would like to contract out Parks and Recreation to the county, and have that tax added to each homeowner’s tax assessment, but it is true that the vacant parcel tax is not part of this other increase in revenue for the city. So

April 3 to April 9, 2014

THE ABC’S OF A DOG BITE

I think voters should ask themselves. A five acre park is missing from the Skyborne development. The city maintains the few parks that do exist for now, and the new county contract is not free. So far, we are to understand the city does not wish to manage maintain or operate the parks, police, or the fire department. What do they wish to manage?

The city has been repeatedly asked to collect over $2 million dollars in revenues per year by simply setting up Medical marijuana dispensaries that are already selling to our residents outside of DHS. There is plenty of revenue being left on the table before we soak investors, homeowners, and taxpayers.

Questions and comments?

JohnPaulValdez@gmail.com

T

he prevalence, seriousness, and cost of dog bites are all on the rise in the California. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), says 4.7 million people are bitten by dogs each year. Factors that cause a dog to bite are: training, breed: health: socialization: provocation: aggression: heredity and the behavior of surrounding humans.

It is common sense that an owner has a legal responsibility to ensure that an unprovoked dog is safe and will not attack passersby’s regardless of a dog’s nature and upbringing. If any of our Coachella Valley Weekly readers or their friends been bitten by a dog they should seek medical attention ASAP. Then they should contact a local accident attorney that has successfully handled these cases for years.

Many years ago California had a one bite statue that only imposed liability on the owner if the dog had already bitten one person. Today we have Strict Liability. Thus if a dog bites someone then the owner is liable. The dog’s owner has a duty to keep control his/her dog at all times. A breach of that duty imposes civil liability for any damages suffered by a victim.

An experienced Dog Bite attorney will not

only encourage their client to immediately go to the ER or Urgent Care but to also have the bite examined by a plastic surgeon who knows how to prepare a med/legal report.

The report should estimate the cost of future medicals and the chances of scaring.

An experienced attorney will also suggest a psychologist if the client has developed a phobia about dogs or nightmares of the incident etc.

The injury is only part of what a good attorney should address. I always teach my new lawyers that documentation is the name of the game. This would include not only treatment with the appropriate doctors but pictures of the bite/scar and a client’s daily diary explaining how this bite affected the client’s life. Did the victim cancel a vacation? a party they were throwing or attending? family pictures? Stay out of the sun and avoid golf and tennis per doctor’s orders?

The cost of dog-bite claims for insurers has risen to $479 million in 2011 with the average settlement of $29,396. This increase has been attributed to increasing medical costs and the increased value of settlements, jury awards, and verdicts for plaintiffs which have outpaced inflation

and the value of auto accident cases. Thus many insurance homeowners policies now exclude certain breeds of dogs from coverage which means you must check your homeowners policy to be sure you are covered.

Remember, When you drink don’t “Pull a Bieber” and get behind the wheel and have an accident (whether it is your fault or not) or get arrested for a DUI: DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE, CALL A TAXI… IT IS A LOT CHEAPER THAN HIRING ME! Dale Gribow has been “Rated” TOP LAWYER by Palm Springs Life Magazine from 2011-2014 and has a Superb AVVO Legal Peer Rating. Gribow has been Man of the Year 7 times including the City of Palm Desert and the City of Hope with Dale Gribow Day declared 4 times. Gribow hosted the “Accidentally Yours” radio show discussing auto accidents and dog bite cases he has handled for over 30 years.

If you have any questions regarding this column or ideas for future columns please contact Dale Gribow, Attorney at Law, at his NEW number 760 837 7500 and or his new email: dale@dalegribowlaw.com 74-923 Highway 111, #206 Indian Wells, California 92210 760-837-7500 Dale@DaleGribowLaw.com www.DaleGribowLaw.com

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April 3 to April 9, 2014

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safety tips

by Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

Play Ball, But Play it Safe...

Opening Season is Among Us!

B

aseball season is now official and whether you’re going to a professional baseball game or to your local neighborhood field, keep your eye on the ball and make safety a priority so that your stadium experience is more like a home run than a strikeout says Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna.”

First Pitch - Sometimes your team may not be so hot, but the weather may be.

Keep hydrated with water and other fluids especially if you’re sweating and/or your seats are in the sun.

Strike One - Whether it’s sunny or cloudy, there’s still the potential for sunburn. Don’t cry foul when you realize you’re getting burned. Speaking of fouls, foul balls and broken bats have the potential to enter the seating areas and concourses. Be aware of what’s going on so that you can avoid being hit by bats or balls that fly your way.

Ball One - When a baseball is hit or thrown into the stands, excitement ensues.

Others will try to be the ‘all-star’ and want that ball. If it’s theirs be a good fielder and back off. If you’re sitting or standing near a railing don’t reach over the railing to attempt to catch the ball. It doesn’t take more than

a second for an accident to happen while reaching for it.

Strike Two - Look at the stadium’s seating chart to see where your seats are located so you can get an idea of what kind of clothing to wear. Dress in layers so that you can be comfortable no matter where you’re sitting.

Bring a raincoat along if there’s a chance it could rain.

Home Run - Remember, “You don’t always have to catch the ball.” What I mean here is, when someone throws you a negative comment, look or attitude, drop it.

It’s out of play. Forget about it. Maintain a good attitude, be patient and maintain sportsmanship conduct at all times. We’ll all be Champs if you do so. Practice this on and off the field!

Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

ShareKitchen O

n Sunday, April 6th at 10:30am, Mary Fay Pinnow and Chef Jennifer Johnson of Jennifer’s Kitchen will be hosting a very unique event with all proceeds benefitting FIND Food Bank.

Their event: “Comfort Yoga” & “Yoga in the Kitchen”, the combination a gentle yoga class and brunch made of organic foods sourced from local Farmer’s Markets.

To make a reservation, please contact Jennifer Johnson at 760-324-2904 or by email at ChefJenJ@aol.com. Tickets are only $50 with a $5 surcharge if paid by credit card.

Held at Ms. Pinnows’ Indian Wells home, the specific address will be given after your reservation is made.

In case you are unfamiliar with Jennifer Johnson, Chef Jen attended Culinary School in 1986 and has been a fixture on the local catering scene for the last two decades.

When cooking, Chef Jen prefers green, local, sustainable and organic or ‘beyond organic’ foods. This means that she chooses foods made from local farms where she knows how the food was grown.

Jennifer prefers to cater Farm-to-Table events following the principles of Alice Waters, one of the founding leaders of the Farm-toTable movement. This means that Chef Jen uses the freshest ingredients available that are sourced from the farms located closest to you.

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In sourcing foods, Jennifer notes that many farmers follow organic practices but do not take the extra step of having their farms certified as organic. These are sustainably grown foods that are often as good as organic.

Organic foods are from farmers who take that extra step to certify as organic what they farm. A farmer who is ‘beyond organic’ is best described as one who goes beyond the certification requirements associated with organic farming by incorporating sustainable, green practices into everything that they do. www.jennifersfinefoods.com

Health&Fitness

by Personal Trainer Karen Creasey

Fitness Success

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teach multiple swim lessons every week, mostly to adults. I tell many of my students that the key to their success, as they learn to swim, is developing a rhythm as they breathe and swim at the same time.

Sometimes fitness success comes down to the simplest things. Breathing and doing something else simultaneously is about as basic as we get.

Here are a few more basics to help you be successful in your fitness endeavors.

Set a realistic and measurable goal. - Being realistic means knowing yourself. Keep in mind that overall wellness should become a lifestyle.

The surest way to fall short of your goal is to make your goal unattainable.

Accountability and Support - Surround yourself with people and situations that support and encourage you and give you motivation to succeed. Form a support system that will not only challenge you, but also encourage you.

Plan Ahead - You may need to set daily, weekly, monthly and even yearly goals that provide a roadmap from which to start. Start small, see positive results, be encouraged, and allow these results to inspire you to achieve even greater accomplishments.

Set Deadlines - Lack of deadlines leaves too much room for avoidance and procrastination, which can lead to the disappointment of unmet

goals. Set incremental steps towards the accomplishment of your goal and then establish realistic deadlines to meet those steps.

Track Your Progress - Keep track of each small success. Short-term goals are easier to keep, and each small accomplishment will help keep you motivated.

Listen to your thoughts - Pay attention to what you think about! Don’t let stinking thinking take you out of the race. Negativity and nagging self-doubt robs you of energy and steals your dreams. Say to yourself: “Today, I am one step closer, I have made some progress”.

Remain Flexible - It is beneficial to reevaluate from time to time to make sure you are going in the direction that exactly reflects what you want to do. Allow changes along the way.

Rewards Yourself - You did it! You made progress! Celebrate your successes, big and small. Treat yourself to something you enjoy that doesn’t contradict your goal. Rewards should serve to motivate you to keep going and stay strong.

I firmly believe it’s never too late to try something new. For more trainer tips or an appointment call me at the Palm Desert Aquatic Center 760-565-7467.

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

Don’t Be

CLUELESS IN THE COACHELLA VALLEY

by Diane Marlin-Dirkx

EVENT CALENDAR

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s a writer, we---the “universal we,” not the “royal we”-- are always looking for the right word to bring the subject alive, to bring the reader into the picture, to give him or her a visceral feeling of identity, empathy or sympathy, to invest them in the history and outcome of the story, to make them happy, or sad, and especially to make them care about how it ends. Gee whiz, that’s important, that’s a big job. Very Charlie Brown in self- producing responsibility-guilt as manager/coach of the neighborhood sandlot baseball team. Sometimes it’s healthier to identify with the self-involved, know-it-all Lucy. The right word can make all the difference in understanding, settling, coping, if not explaining. Case in point: Academy Award winner Gwyneth Paltrow announced her impending divorce from Coldplay’s Chris Martin on her website ‘goop.com” by the coupling of two words, to wit, calling the decision a “conscious uncoupling.” We’re impressed. Aren’t words wonderful? What else is new? Read on. raise funds. One of those benefitting, is the Ophelia Project, as program of Healthy Family Foundation. This year, they will exhibit unique fused glass pendants under the direction of I.M.A.G.E.S. Gallery in Palm Desert. Many other organizations will be featured at the festival which will show more than 200 juried artists in painting, sculpture pottery, glass, photography, jewelry and crafts, plus demonstrations, entertainment, Thursday – Sunday, April 3 – 6, Multi- food concessions. This festival has been rated venues, multi-times! Golf, featuring the one of the “100 Best Fine Art Shows” in the chase of a little, dimpled white ball, may be country. Adult entrance fee, $12. Children the focus, but after-hours all that attention under 12 are admitted free. Parking is free. is re-focused on all that Jazz in town during Valet parking is available. the Kraft Nabisco Pro-Am Tournament Dinah Shore Weekend. Presented by L&G Events, the festival features over 30 national and international celebrated female musicians who’ve earned their jazz chops, from smooth superstars, such as trumpeter Cindy Bradley and saxophonist Pamela Williams, Grammynominated vocalist Perla Batalla, living blues legend, to vocalist Lady GG, jazz guitargreat Mimi Fox, and so many others who are known in the rarified air of the first allAmerican music genre—and we mean JAZZ. For tickets and info on the world-Class lineup, go to pswomensjazzfestival.com

Friday – Sunday, April 4 – 6, 10am – 5pm. Play It Again! Community Partners will benefit from The Indian Wells Arts Festival again, keeping the proceeds from the tickets they sell, giving them opportunities to raise awareness of the cause, as well as

Saturday, April 5, 5:15 Reception, 6 – 7 pm Concert. The John Stanley King Band will “strike up the band,” in the great tradition of American music from jazz to classic rock at the Gardens on El Paseo, in celebration of the Gardens Annual Concert Series on the Center Lawn. As in years past, residents and visitors alike can start off the evening by socializing at the wine and cheese reception held on the center lawn before each concert at 5:15 PM. For a $12 donation, guests enjoy light refreshments catered by Pacifica Seafood Restaurant, Sullivan’s Steakhouse, as well as two glasses of wine sponsored by Anderholt Whittaker. Arrive early as tickets are not pre-sold. The musical event is produced by KJJZ’s Jim “Fitz” Fitzgerald, Desert Lexus and Desert Arc, will benefit the Family YMCA of the Desert. For more info, call Terri, 760-3418468, or The Gardens, 760-0862-1990, or go to www.thegardensonelpaseo.com

April 3 to April 9, 2014

Saturday, April 5, 4:30 – 7:30pm. “ You’re invited to come casual or dressed to the nines, to the “Desert Chic Wine and Cheese Social,” given by the Twentynine Palms Historical Society, in partnership with the Broadview Hacienda, as a benefit to continue to preserve the local history and culture, and to keep the doors of the Old Schoolhouse Museum open. Mike and Anne Congdon have opened Broadview for this event where guests, members and non-members can experience the beauty of this historic home while enjoying the camaraderie of old and new friends, and perhaps even learn about the right pairing of wines and cheeses. .Nonalcoholic beverages will also be served. Lift the pen to participate in a silent auction of irresistible treasures. Minimum donation ticket, $25. Tickets will be available at Old Schoolhouse Museum, 6760 National Park Dr; Bowden Frame Shop, 73355 Sullivan Rd; Twentynine Palms Chamber of Commerce, 73484 Twentynine Palms Hwy. All in29 Palms.

Thursday, April 10, 8:30am. Breakfast at Tiffany’s sleepyhead! Dreams do come true after all as Tiffany store director Margaret Cole regales members of the Fashion Group International of Palm Springs and Desert Communities, Inc. (FGI), Friends of FGI and non-members with the newest stories and plans for the iconic jewelry store. Her lecture “Dare To Dream---Tiffany’s New Direction” is one of a series of FGI Frontliners programs to inform, putting attendees at the Frontline of the news! There will be a plethora of delectable European pastries from which to choose, croissants and fresh-roasted coffee to start your day. Also, oh dream-ofdreams, there will be a drawing for a Tiffany collectors’ piece of silver jewelry. (Be sure to carry your business card.) Please RSVP (it’s a must!) for this event via FGI toll-free 800-758-4633. FGI member, and Friend of FGI, $20. Non-member, $25, Student, $15.

You may pay at the door. Tiffany’s, 73-585 El Paseo, Palm Desert.

Thursday, April 10, 5 – 7pm. Different Shades of Lipstick…Women Influencing Culture. This sounds serious, women!

Listen up as Palm Springs Women in Film and Television (PSWIFT) partners with the Rancho Mirage Cultural Commission for the opening of the Rancho Mirage Cultural Festival with a dynamic discussion of how women in our industry have effected change in our popular culture! Was there ever any doubt? Start your engines at 5 pm with introductions to celebrity panelists Germaine Franco, Shari Belafonte, Stephanie Kramer and Ruta Lee, followed by a 50 minute panel discussion of how film, TV, and new media (social?) have influenced our lives and intimating how the future trends will affect society and our culture tomorrow. After 20 minutes for a Q & A, there will be a delicious end to the evening---a wine and cheese reception. Best news: The RM city council will be awarding a $1000 scholarship to a young collegebound student in the arts and entertainment industry. The free event is at the RM city hall, Hwy 111 and Frank Sinatra Drive. PSWIFT will be videotaping the event to share with high school media programs.

Saturday, April 12, 8pm. Heart- chart topper: Michael Bolton appears one night only with the Desert Symphony to celebrate its 25th Anniversary Gala at the McCallum Theatre. The original “smooth operator,” a love-balladeer, a tender tenor contender in soft rock offers a rough-hewn vocal timbre that speaks sultry volumes in word and need.

A few of his hits: “How Am I Supposed To Live Without You,” “The Best of Love,” “Missing You Now,” are from an all-American singer/ songwriter whose prodigious output has been compared to “a fine wine” and savored since 1975. The winner of multiple American Music Awards and Grammy Awards, Bolton has recorded eight top 10 albums and two number one singles on the Billboard charts.

Dinner and performance tickets are available by calling the Desert Symphony at 760-7735788, or 760-779-1332. Performance only tickets are available at the box office or 760340- ARTS, or online www.McCallumTheatre. com., or at the box office. Ticket sales go to fund this non-profit 501 © (3) #95-3871126.

“Don’t Be Clueless” wants to remind you that press releases for inclusion should be in to the Coachella Valley Weekly at least two weeks ahead of the scheduled event!

Thanks!

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April 3 to April 9, 2014

Health&Fitness

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

FREE WILL ASTROLOGY

By Denise Ortuno Neil

Hiking Etiquette, Are you polite?

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here are a variety of hiking trails in the Coachella Valley attracting a whole subculture of hikers from around the globe that come to the desert specifically to hike. The trails range from scenic strolls, to moderately challenging, and for those who have the stamina, just plain difficult. With the hiking population out on our trails increasing, there comes the need for order, a hiking etiquette that should be adhered to so everyone can enjoy our desert trails. It got me thinking, am I a polite hiker? And what should be the etiquette?

It’s a conscience decision to go hiking, with many provisions to be taken. There are the proper shoes ( hiking boots are best) and attire to be chosen, sunscreen to be worn , lots of water, a fanny pack(an acceptable time to use one) to hold keys, a cell and a nutritious kind of snack for a jolt of energy if need be.

I wake energized when I know the day will take me hiking and once the gear is correct, the question is which trail to take? It sounds like a fork in the road kind of thing, and in some ways it is. It goes back to which sort of hiking experience that you are in the mood for that day. My preferences vary, there are some trails that I love in Palm Springs such as Lykken Trail and Shannon Trail, but I usually choose the convenience of Palm Desert trails as they are closer to home.

The Bump-n-Grind in Palm Desert located off Painters Path is a moderate hike, and gives me a satisfying workout. The popular trail is sometimes on the crowded side, sort of like the Gold’s Gym of hiking trails. At the base of the trail

is an explanation of the associated trails and some basic rules discouraging littering and encouraging hikers to stay on the designated paths.

If you’re looking for solitude, the Bump-n-Grind might not work in your favor, which brings to my first etiquette question. Is it proper to be talking on your cell phone during a hike? I understand the need to bring one, as I would never go on a hike without one in case of an emergency, but to randomly be talking on your phone loud enough for those around you to hear or even interject into the conversation, it must be a hiking etiquette no, no. I notice most people who talk on their cell phones during a hike are hiking alone. But if you have chosen to hike alone (like I do most of the time) you are most likely desiring some ALONE time, which chattering on your phone would no doubt negate. Perhaps the phone needs to be left in the fanny pack and the sound of nature should be all that is heard. Like texting while driving, it can wait.

Another noise polluter that I’ve noticed which may be a hiking etiquette violation is listening to music, although it is completely understandable to do so and the ear buds usually conceals the sound to the public. The exception is that if a fellow hiker can hear your music, it’s probably too loud. Not to mention if the volume is turned up to the point of annoyance, you most likely can’t hear the person on a bike coming full speed behind you, which could be dangerous for everyone.

I’ve always thought that people who bicycle on trails have super human powers, how else would they be able to huff up a trail so effortlessly (or so

Mind, body & Spirit

Change Your Mind, Change Your Life

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he Law of Attraction Radio Network brings new thoughts and new hope to our Coachella Valley through this three day seminar. I think we can all understand the simple principle that doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results is nothing short of a form of insanity. Not many of us are comfortable with change, but when we know we need it, where do we start. This event may hold some answers to that dilema. At the Ultimate law of Attraction Event, you will be invited to “ignite your power of creation” through the Law of Attraction as you are instructed by several world renown teachers.

“Here’s the shocking truth. You have completely forgotten your power of creation that you were born with. This power has simply faded away because we are forced to conform to societies standards and demands,” says Law of Attraction, Radio Network founder Jewels Johnson. “Regaining that power will literally bring you love, money, great health and happiness by your own design.” This seminar offers to deliver this power back to its attendees by using scientific and spiritual principals GUARANTEED to bring results. You will learn how to create your own personal hologram deck of your life through the force of energy.

FRIDAY, APRIL 11: Natalie Ledwell - “The Mind Movies” Visualization Queen will bring the science behind visualization that expands your capabilities to create.

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SATURDAY, APRIL 12: Howard Martin, Institute of HeartMath - The key spokesperson for the scientific organization, and speaks internationally on developing new intelligence needed to navigate life during changing times.

Karen Rauch Carter - Feng Shui expert, bestselling author and healthy-lifestyle designer is passionate about helping people live their healthiest and most vibrant lives through her Environment-changing methods that produce consistent and, some say, miraculous results.

SUNDAY, APRIL 13 Christy Whitman - “The Quantum Success coach” who has transformed the lives of thousands, will be showing you how to “magnetize” more abundance into your life and bring your dreams to reality.

Dianne Bischoff James - Bestselling author takes you on a journey to “reboot midlife” through the reinvention of self.

Other topics covered throughout the event are “Spirituality - Peace of Mind”, “Brain Science - Quantum Physics”, “Wealth and Prosperity”, Abundand and Happiness”, “Emotional Wellbeing” among many others conducive to a healthy happy life.

To purchase tickets and receive the 50% discount exclusive to CV Weekly readers, visit the event website: www.Loaevent.com. When purchasing tickets, enter the discount code “coachella”. Tickets will also be available at the event.

Week of April 3

it seems). I guess that’s what those spin classes prepare you for. The way to give the right of way to bicyclist is also an etiquette issue. Basically, if you see a bike coming at you…MOVE, especially if they are going downhill at a rapid speed. I not only move out of the way, gently side stepping on the appropriate side, I almost bow to them. But bicyclists have their own etiquette to follow, as they are on peddle powered vehicles, and we, the hikers are on our tender vulnerable feet…please watch out for them bicycle masters.

Speaking of giving right of way, when and how do you give it to your fellow hiker? This is a biggie in hiking etiquette. Hiking on a trail with other, sometimes many other hikers can cause a bit of human hiker traffic. Just like driving, you have the ones that go fast (left lane) those who are moderate in speed (middle lane) and those who are taking time to smell the cactus (right lane). But as the trail is usually not large enough

to accommodate so many lanes, and it’s a two way trail, it can become tricky. However, it always seems to work out. I have yet to see a hiker collision or total hiker traffic jam. Most people know instinctively to move out of the way if others are going faster than they are, or move to the side if a larger group is sharing the trail. It seems to be a built in hiking no brainer.

Finally, and this is the most profound etiquette question I’ve pondered, is why some hikers say “Hello” or “Good-morning/afternoon” and some say nothing, not even giving any eye contact? It’s an interesting examination of human behavior and I have seen the difference with different kinds of hikers. Those hiking alone tend to be much friendlier. Perhaps it’s because I am usually doing the same and they feel some sort of alliance. But then there’s the hiking couple. Older couples seem to be friendlier than younger ones and groups are usually very engaged in their own conversations and glaze by other hikers…but not always, I’d say it’s a medium amount of group hikers that don’t greet. All in all, most hikers are friendly and happy to be up on a trail appreciating all there is around them, including other hikers.

Hiking in the Coachella Valley is a great outdoor experience where you can get some exercise and discover all the beauty that desert nature can provide. With the implementation of some simple hiking etiquette, the hiking experience can only get better for everyone. After-all, it’s only polite.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): In his novel The Unbearable Lightness of Being, Milan Kundera says that the brain has “a special area which we might call poetic memory and which records everything that charms or touches us, that makes our lives beautiful.” In the coming days, it will be especially important for you to tap into this power spot in your own grey matter, Aries. You need to activate and stir up the feelings of enchantment that are stored there. Doing so will make you fully alert and available for the new delights that will be swirling in your vicinity. The operative principle is like attracts like.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Our ancestors could see the Milky Way Galaxy spread out across the heavens on every clear night. Galileo said it was so bright, it cast a shadow of his body on the ground.

But today that glorious spectacle is invisible to us city-dwellers. The sky after sundown is polluted with artificial light that hides 90 percent of the 2,000 stars we might otherwise see. If you want to bask in the natural illumination, you’ve got to travel to a remote area where the darkness is deeper. Let’s make that your metaphor, Taurus.

Proceed on the hypothesis that a luminous source of beauty is concealed from you. To become aware of it, you must seek out a more profound darkness.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): “Dear Gemini: I don’t demand your total attention and I don’t need your unconditional approval. I will never restrict your freedom or push you to explain yourself. All I truly want to do is to warm myself in the glow of your intelligence. Can you accept that? I have this theory that your sparkle is contagious -- that I’ll get smarter about how to live my own life if I can simply be in your presence. What do you say? In return, I promise to deepen your appreciation for yourself and show you secrets about how best to wield your influence. -Your Secret Admirer.”

CANCER (June 21-July 22): The Cancerian artist Rembrandt became one of the world’s greatest painters. It was a struggle. “I can’t paint the way they want me to paint,” he said about those who questioned his innovative approach. “I have tried and I have tried very hard, but I can’t do it. I just can’t do it!” We should be glad the master failed to meet his critics’ expectations. His work’s unique beauty didn’t get watered down. But there was a price to pay. “That is why I am just a little crazy,” Rembrandt concluded. Here’s the moral of the story: To be true to your vision and faithful to your purpose, you may have to deal with being a little crazy. Are you willing to make that trade-off?

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): The Indian spiritual teacher Nisargadatta Maharaj offered a threestage fable to symbolize one’s progression toward enlightenment. In the first stage, you are inside a cage located in a forest where a tiger prowls.

You’re protected by the cage, so the tiger can’t hurt you. On the other hand, you’re trapped. In the second stage, the tiger is inside the cage and you roam freely through the forest. The beautiful animal is trapped. In the third stage, the tiger is out of the cage and you have tamed it. It’s your ally and you are riding around on its back. I believe this sequence has resemblances to the story you’ll be living in the coming months. Right now you’re inside the cage and the tiger is outside. By mid-May the tiger will be in the cage and you’ll be outside.

By your birthday, I expect you to be riding the tiger.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): What is “soul work,” anyway? It’s like when you make an unpredictable gift for someone you love. Or when you bravely identify one of your unripe qualities and resolve to use all your willpower and ingenuity to ripen it. Soul work is when you wade into a party full of rowdy drunks and put your meditation skills to the acid test. It’s like when you teach yourself not merely to tolerate smoldering ambiguity, but to be amused by it and even thrive on it. Can you think of other examples? It’s Soul Work Week for you.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Are you close to anyone who is a catalytic listener? Is there a

© Copyright 2012 Rob Brezsny

person who tunes in to what you say with such fervent receptivity that you get inspired to reveal truths you didn’t realize you knew? If so, invite this superstar out to a free lunch or two in the coming days. If not, see if you can find one. Of course, it is always a blessing to have a heart-to-heart talk with a soul friend, but it is even more crucial than usual for you to treat yourself to this luxury now. Hints of lost magic are near the surface of your awareness.

They’re still unconscious, but could emerge into full view during provocative conversations with an empathetic ally.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): On my blog, I quoted author Ray Bradbury: “You must stay drunk on writing so reality cannot destroy you.”

I asked my readers what word they would use in place of “writing” to describe how they avoided being destroyed by reality. Popular responses were love, music, whiskey, prayer, dreams, gratitude, and yoga. One woman testified that she stayed drunk on sexting, while another said “collecting gargoyles from medieval cathedrals,” and a third claimed her secret was “jumping over hurdles while riding a horse.” There was even a rebel who declared she stayed drunk on writing so she could destroy reality. My question is important for you to meditate on, Scorpio. Right now you must do whatever’s necessary to keep from being messed with by reality.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Does your mother know what you are up to these days?

Let’s hope not. I doubt if she would fully approve, and that might inhibit your enthusiasm for the experiments you are exploring. It’s probably best to keep your father out of the loop as well, along with other honchos, cynics, or loved ones who might be upset if you wander outside of your usual boundaries. And as for those clucking voices in your head: Give them milk and cookies, but don’t pay attention to their cautious advice. You need to be free of the past, free of fearful influences, and free of the self you’re in the process of outgrowing.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): For the foreseeable future, I urge you not to spend much time wrangling with bureaucrats and know-italls. Avoid frustrating projects that would require meticulous discipline. Don’t even think about catching up on paperwork or organizing your junk drawer or planning the next five years of your career. Instead, focus on taking long meandering walks to nowhere in particular. Daydream about an epic movie based on your life story. Flirt with being a lazy bum. Play noncompetitive games with unambitious people. Here’s why: Good ideas and wise decisions are most likely to percolate as you are lounging around doing nothing -- and feeling no guilt for doing nothing.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Are you waiting?

Are you wondering and hoping? Are you calculating whether you are needed, and if so, how much?

Do you wish the signs were clearer about how deeply you should commit yourself? Are you on edge as you try to gauge what your exact role is in the grand scheme of things? I’m here to deliver a message from the universe about how you should proceed. It’s a poem by Emily Dickinson: “They might not need me but – they might – / I’ll let my Heart be just in sight – / A smile so small as mine might be / Precisely their necessity -” PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): You will soon get a second chance. An opportunity you failed to capitalize on in the past will re-emerge in an even more welcoming guise, and you will snag it this time. You weren’t ready for it the first time it came around, but you are ready now! It’s probably a good thing the connection didn’t happen earlier, because at that time the magic wasn’t fully ripe.

But the magic is ripe now!

Homework: Choose one area of your life where you’re going to stop pretending. Report results to FreeWillAstrology.com.

Rob Brezsny Free Will Astrology freewillastrology@freewillastrology.com

April 3 to April 9, 2014

Mind, body & Spirit

by Bronwyn Ison

“NO PAIN, NO GAIN” NOT A YOGA PHILOSOPHY

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oga has been a mind, body and spirit practice for 5,000 years. The philosophy of “no pain, no gain” in yoga simply does not translate. If you have practiced yoga and you were in pain, you are over achieving or doing too much. Exceeding your limitations can be dangerous. Along with being dangerous one can be turned off by the practice of yoga if not properly instructed. Listening and honoring what your body signals will accelerate a gratifying experience.

Anatomical differences may make it impossible for one to achieve a certain posture. Because our society is competitive it is natural for us to want to achieve a posture we have seen in a book or magazine. Your body may not be prepared to accommodate the posture. Pushing yourself into a posture is simply not beneficial. You are imposing on something from the outside and going beyond your limits. This may lead to an injury or frustration. I am not suggesting you don’t challenge yourself. I am encouraging you to practice safely.

As a yoga instructor and practiontioner of fourteen years I have been able to identify what my body can and cannot accomplish.

Some yogi’s may refer to this as “playing to the edge.” Most yoga postures are held for a period of time. At this time your body will sink into the posture but you may experience some resistance. At this time you stop, breathe and simply revel in the posture.

You can now play to your edge. If you move quickly and force your actions, your muscles will likely contract and frustrate your efforts in achieving the posture. Your body is protecting itself from injury. Forcing yourself through resistance may lead to torn muscles fibers. If you breathe and soften your approach you may find unexpected opening.

Generally, I tell students pain is contrary from challenging yourself. If something hurts you must back off. Perhaps you are exceeding limits. The difference is if you feel a painful sensation versus one that brings awareness take heed. Proper alignment is essential. If you experience joint pain ask your instructor for assistance. A qualified instructor will offer you an alternative or modification. Flexible people or those who are hypermobile must be very careful. Sometimes flexible students are deficient at assessing their own body awareness and this can contribute to misalignment of the joints.

Be mindful that your yoga class should not be a competition. Be aware of peer pressure.

Your yoga practice should not be about displaying what you can do. It is about selfstudy. A good instructor will encourage and challenge you but he/she should also hear your voice and understand your limitations.

Bronwyn Ison is the owner of Evolve Yoga in La Quinta. Visit www.e-volveyoga. com. Or call (760) 564-YOGA (9642) for more information.

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April 3 to April 9, 2014

Life & career Coach

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

by Sunny Simon

To Multitask or Mono-task…

That is the Question

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he other night while watching TV my husband fell asleep. After gently prying the remote control out of his hand, I decided to do some channel surfing. Before long I landed on a sitcom and where a wild-eyed blonde woman was standing with a hair dryer in one hand, maneuvering her electric tooth brush with the other and attempting to shove one leg into her skinny jeans. While the TV audience howled I stood frozen unable to utter a single giggle. Why? Well it wasn’t too long ago I caught myself unsuccessfully attempting to accomplish three things at once. The problem is I know better. I teach time management and ask my clients to firmly commit to “monotasking.”

Research supports the theory that multitasking can be harmful to your health.

Do not be fooled, multitasking is really not a time saver because realistically, there is no such thing attacking two or more tasks simultaneously. The only true multitasking takes place when one act is auto-pilot passive. For example, it is possible to listen to rock music while whipping up a soufflé.

Conversely, what actually happens when you are typing an email while chatting on the phone with a friend is a rapid shift between two tasks. In his book, “The Myth of Multitasking,” author and business coach David Crenshaw explains a concept called “switchtasking” which is toggling back and forth between two tasks.

There are consequences to what we think of as multitasking. If you are focusing on my article and not merely scanning it as you check your texts and order a latte, accept this cold, hard truth. When you attempt to perform more than one task simultaneously, your error rate increases

along with your stress level. Additionally, if you were to complete a singular task, time would be saved rather than squandered.

Mono-tasking is the “new age” productivity. According to Urban Dictionary, “the performance by an individual of one task, and only one task, at a point in time is called mono-tasking.” UD further states, “It can be more productive than multitasking as it allows an individual to put all their attention and focus on the task at hand.”

I agree. And that sitcom I was watching eventually had me convulsing in a fit of giggles. The blonde protagonist lost her balance halfway into her skinny jeans, tumbled making a soft landing onto her bed as her hairdryer went flying and electric toothbrush became entangled in her flaxen curls. I silently thanked her for proving my point.

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

beauty

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

by dr maria lombardo

Receive The Celebrity Secret Of Permanent Cosmetic Make-Up

Dr. Maria Lombardo, Lombardo Cosmetic Surgery is located in Rancho Mirage.

She specializes in both surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures including (but not limited to) facial, body and breast surgery, Botox, Latisse, and hCG diet program.

For a consultation or more information, visit www.lombardocosmeticsurgery.com or call 760-610-8990. Dr. Lombardo will be writing a bi-weekly column for CV Weekly.

What exactly is the HCG diet?

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t’s been around for years, since the 1950’s to be exact. We’ve all heard about it but what is it and how does it work? HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) is a hormone produced during pregnancy. One of its functions is to ensure the growing fetus receives enough nutrients to grow and develop normally.

It allows the mother’s body to use stored body fat for nutrients and energy despite her intake. This is why women can have “morning sickness”, not eat and the baby does not suffer. Pregnancy is the only time HCG is found in the body.

Dr. ATW Simeons discovered in the 1950’s that small doses of HCG given to overweight individuals (men and women) decreased their appetite, and made them lose inches specifically around their hips, thighs, buttocks and stomachs. Today millions of people have used HCG for weight loss. The HCG Diet has also been used for weight loss in obese persons as well as those wanting to shed a few unhealthy or unwanted pounds.

However it is used, the HCG diet weight loss program works.

How Does It Work?

When HCG is taken, the body is able to tap into its stored fat and utilize it. When combined with a calorie restriction diet, the person is subsisting more on their stored fat than on what they are eating. They are burning 3500-4000 calories of stored fat daily, which can amount to losing about 1 pound every day!

Many people want to know if they can be comfortable on a calorie restriction diet of 500 calories per day. One of the benefits of HCG is that a person can feel comfortable eating only 500 calories per day while taking the HCG injections. While on the HCG diet, appetite is suppressed and most patients feel as if they are stuffing themselves on

500 calories a day. Trying this very low calorie diet without the use of HCG would lead to trouble within 2-3 days. Side effects of starving yourself include insomnia, lethargy, headaches, loss of mental clarity, severe fatigue, and on and on! While on the HCG diet patients sleep sounder and usually feel better than they did before they started the HCG diet.

What Can I Expect?

If the protocol is followed, you can expect to lose 1-2 pounds per day – an average of 20 pounds lost by the 23rd day. A person on the HCG diet can expect to eat 500 calories a day of protein, fruits and vegetables.

The HCG is injected daily for 23 days. The program can be followed for 40 days in some cases. Maintenance after the diet is important. The HCG Diet is considered one of the fastest and safest ways to lose weight and keep it off. It’s not just quick weight loss.

The HCG diet is a new way of eating food and a new way of thinking about health.

If you are interested in learning more about the HCG program call Dr. Maria Lombardo at 760-610-8990 to schedule an appointment today!

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