Coachella Valley Weekly - April 10 to April 16, 2014 Vol. 3 No. 3

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www.coachellavalleyweekly.com • April 10 to April 16, 2014 Vol. 3 No. 3

Michael Keeth & Martin Barrera

pg 11

Philm

pg 12

Brave Black Sea

pg 13

Don Diego’s

pg 20

April 10 to April 16, 2014

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Coachella Valley Weekly

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QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE

April 10 to April 16, 2014

Intro by robin linn interview By tracy dietlin

JOSH HOMME FROM KYUSS TO QOTSA, HIS DESERT ROOTS RUN DEEP

760.501.6228

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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

Josh Homme of QOTSA.................... 3 Best Of The CV ...............................6 Coachella Picks..............................7 Sports Scene ..................................8 Sports.............................................9 Coachella Picks............................10 Little Dragon................................10 Michael Keeth & Martin Barrera..11 Music - Philm.................................12 DR- Brave Black Sea.....................13 Consider This - Broken Bells........14 Pet Place.......................................16 The Vino Voice..............................17 Club Crawler Nightlife.................18 Pampered Palate- Don Diego’s......20 Screeners......................................22 Book Review ................................23 Smoke Tree Supper Club.............25 Business Profile - Don Vincent.....26 Its Your Nickel...............................26 Haddon Libby: It’s All Local.........27 Dale Gribow.................................27 Safety Tips....................................28 ShareKitchen................................28 Gaemer Girl..................................28 Health & Fitness...........................29 SELMAGrows................................29 Sports...........................................29 Don’t Be Clueless in the CV.........30 Free Will Astrology......................31 Mind, Body, & Spirit.....................31 Life & Career Coach......................32 Ask The Doctor.............................32 Comics - Weiss Cracks..................34

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O

ur love for desert rock here in the Coachella Valley goes back to the early nineties when the yearround population in the desert was minimal in comparison to the droves of residents that live here now. In those early days there were a handful of groundbreaking bands making sounds so completely fresh and unique from anything I had ever experienced in the large neighboring cities I had lived and performed in. LA and San Diego seemed to be full of bands enlisting a structured formula to their songs that was cumbersome and contrived. Not so in the desert. Bands like Across The River which featured a young Mario Lalli, Alfredo Hernandez and Scott Reeder, the first real desert jam band with a punk essence, Josh Homme and John Garcia founded Kyuss, Mario and cousin Larry formed Fatso Jetson and with Gary Arce, Sort of Quartet and Yawning Man. In all of these musical scenarios, there is a core of players that have helped push desert rock to the forefront of the world wide music scene.

Throughout all of the changes in music over the years, Josh Homme seems to enlist a strong vision and attitude about making his own brand of original music that has served

him well. These are players that march to their own drummers, and the music that continues to come out of the desert has found its way across the pond where it has grown to be so significant, bands labeling themselves “desert stoner rock” are coming out of every country in Europe.

Kyuss and then Queens of the Stone Age, working under the direction of producer Chris Goss (Master of Reality), recorded albums that still influence rock music all over the world today. When Kyuss split up in 1995, the band members all picked up and moved on, and every single member of that seminal desert rock band has gone on to develop sounds and create music that is cutting edge and completely unique. The first inception of QOTSA began in Seattle where Homme took off to make his mark with his then brand new band. That first self-titled record still is regarded as the break out record that started the whole “desert stoner rock” ball rolling in the midnineties. On that debut record, it was just Josh and Alfredo, with Josh playing bass, guitar and vocals and Fredo on drums.

Longing for the desert they were born in, they returned from Seattle to their Palm Springs playground and recorded the debut Queens of The Stone Age record with producer Chris Goss’ at Monkey Studios in Palm Springs (Now Robbie Waldman’s Unit A Recording and Arts Studio).

Alfredo Hernandez remembers, “You

can hear in my performance on that record how comfortable and at ease I was...I was in my own back yard in Palm Springs where I grew up, as was Josh, and we were still young and life and music was full of possibilities. To this day, I feel inspired when I listen to that record.”

Since those early days, the world wide fan base for desert rock is gaining steam.

Kyuss vocalist, John Garcia and drummer Brant Bjork moved forward with Vista Chino, Scott Reeder has had great success with several projects including Sun and Sail Club with members of Fu Man Chu, Alfredo Hernandez has a new European (V2) record deal with members of Slo Burn in their new band, Brave Black Sea. Contributing QOTSA bassist Nick Oliveri has found his own voice with Mondo Generator and tours as bassist for Moistboyz.

But no desert band has achieved greater success than Queens of the Stone Age. Josh Homme was always at the epicenter of our original underground music scene since its inception. He has proved he has a clear vision about his own musical concepts and pushed forward with some of the world’s most significant hard rock performers with QOTSA. Their sounds are psychedelic, heavy yet musical and they turn out some of the most beloved stoner rock the world has ever known. They are hometown heroes to those of us that reside in the desert Homme came from. Their success and their participation in the two week-long annual Coachella Music and Arts Festival event has brought them home to us once again.

The current lineup of QOTSA features players that can bring Homme’s creative visions to life with perfection. Troy Van Leeuwen (who blew us all away with A Perfect Cirlce) is a brilliant guitarist and multi-instrumentalist that has added dimension to the QOTSA sound of today.

Along with bassist Michael Shumman, drummer Jon Theodore and keyboardist Dean Fertita, they have risen to the top of the world music market place, bringing them to this year’s Grammy’s both as nominees and performers.

Their most recent record Like Clockwork, released in June of 2013, moved 91,000 units in the first week, charted at #1 on the Billboard 200 and went on to go platinum continue to page 5

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within weeks of its release. The record features brilliant songwriting shaped by the raw desert rock of the early years, refining their style into a sound so unique they have been coined one of the most influential rock bands of our day. They have raised the bar for popular music by creating sounds like no one else on earth. Homme managed to find commercial success without ever giving up a single ounce of self-respect or originality.

You CAN stay true to your own creative vision and you CAN find audiences sophisticated enough to get it. You DON’T have to sell out to make it. You have to stick to your guns, work your ass off, and believe in the music you are making. I know I speak for many of us die-hard desert music fans when I say we value Josh Homme for pushing forward his creative vision without compromise and carrying the torch for desert rock. For the next two Saturday nights, festies will be treated to some of the most significant hard rock of our time right here in the Coachella Valley offered up by one of the most groundbreaking rock bands of our time.....Queens of the Stone Age. Interview with Josh Homme

by Tracy Dietlin CVW: How does it feel to come back home and play Coachella?

Josh Homme: Well I think I’ve played Coachella more than anyone but with different bands…Queens, Them Crooked Vultures, Desert Sessions. I guess from growing up in the desert I always feel like something’s going to happen to make it fail like a great restaurant will open but doesn’t make it through summer… but the fact that Coachella has become this huge festival and that it’s been able to stay at the Polo Grounds, which I think is where it should be, is really wonderful. I’m really proud of that.

Promoters from all over the country come to check out Coachella. It’s become such an artistic venue.

CVW: I’m sure nobody expected it to be so successful when it first started.

JH: They knew they were going to lose money at the beginning but they drew this artistic line and just did it. And Goldenvoice has been able to maintain their ethos and artistic vision at a time where there is less and less promoters like that in the world... so good for them.

CVW: I’m sure way back in the generator party days you and Mario and all the guys

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never thought there would end up being an actual rock genre “desert stoner rock” that would come from that.

JH: Ya… You’re just living in the moment.

And for me it all comes back to Boomer (Mario Lalli) and there was only one generator and it was his. And he was such a benevolent, sweet, encouraging person.

I first played Mario’s house when I was 13.

And it was great because someone actually liked my music. He was such a driving force suggesting that you just had to be as original as possible. That it was a necessity.

He really instilled that in me. I really think that he’s the guy who’s really responsible for fostering it and watering it and putting it out in the sun and creating the whole scene.

He’s the nicest guy ever and a real family man. He’s influenced me so much lyrically that sometimes I feel like I’m ripping him off.

He’s the one thing that you always want to be and that’s “unheckleable”. You can walk up to him and say ‘I don’t like your music” but you can never say “your music is fake”.

CVW: What was it like back then being on the edge of something exciting and new compared to now with all of the success you’ve had? Do you still get the same adrenaline rush?

JH: Honestly on the last 4 tours we’ve been on it’s been a series of firsts and milestones and moments. It’s like one long journey and I never thought when we were playing parties that I would be here.

It wasn’t for money…it wasn’t for fame… you just played for music. The desert is the hardest crowd I’ve ever played. I got a thick skin growing up playing here.

CVW: It’s always baffled me how so many desert bands go to Europe and have great success over there but come

home and can barely get to play a gig in their hometown. QOTSA is one of the few bands that have been able to have huge commercial success here in the US. Why do you think that is? What do you think sets you apart?

JH: I don’t know. I do know that my Dad Mike Homme is a hard working guy that would get up at 3am and go to work. And he instilled a lot of that in me. And I hope it has something to do with just working. I love what I get to do and I don’t ever take it for granted and I feel like it’s going to be taken away at any minute (chuckling) and so I try to enjoy the moment as much as possible. I still find myself surprised after doing this for 25 years at the things that happen.

CVW: Do you prefer touring here in the US or in Europe?

JH: I really enjoy being in Holland and Belgium and France from a country perspective. They’re efficient and laid back and have great common sense and the crowds are like that. By the same token we just went to Australia and it was crazy down there. You have to learn to adjust to every county’s personalities. It’s easier to play in the States because I have 2 kids and I wife that I really love and want to be around all the time so it’s hard to be away too long.

CVW: So do you and Brody tour together or separately?

JH: We try for only one of us to be out at a time. It’s a very delicate balance of schedules. We were all touring together in Australia. We just feel like we’re better when we’re all together and that’s all that really matters. But it can be tricky how to make it all happen. Ideally we’re on different album cycles but sometimes it overlaps. Nothing else means anything. I’ve never really been into stuff. Those kids are funny. I’ve never related to anyone as much as my 2 year old.

They’re fun (laughing). I don’t know if that means I’m still juvenile or what.

CVW: Do you still have a home in the desert?

JH: Ya…we go back and forth. We spend a lot of time up in Joshua Tree too. It’s like that’s the upstairs of the desert and this is downstairs. We have so many friends up there that we don’t need to have our own place there.

CVW: There’s a whole new generation of musicians playing in the desert that weren’t here back in the generator days and many of them look up to you like rock royalty and idolize you. How does that make you feel when you come back

April 10 to April 16, 2014 and you’re hanging out at The Hood or Schmidy’s and they come up to you?

JH: Everyone is pretty nice. I don’t want to act like it’s no big deal and trivialize it but I just feel like ‘hi, I’m Josh from Palm Desert’.

I mean I’ve gotten to do all kinds of special stuff that’s been amazing. That doesn’t make me better it just makes me grateful that any of it ever occurred in the first place.

And again everyone is always really cool.

It’s not like they stroll up and say anything rude to me. That’s only the people that have known me for 30 years (laughing). I expect that. It’s part of the desert dialogue.

CVW: So I know you have other projects too. What’s going on with EODM and Them Crooked Vultures?

JH: We’re trying to do an Eagles record now. It’s just making it all work. I did Vultures when nothing was going on and same with Eagles and they have all just kind of rotated but now there’s a bit of an overlap and that’s really tough. I hate it when things aren’t moving along because of me and I don’t want to be the reason they aren’t. I’m a little responsible with that right now with Eagles… but there are only so many hours in the day. I really don’t have a favorite of the three. I enjoy doing all of them so I’m struggling because I really want to do it… but I also have to do things like go to bed and spend time with the kids and eat a sandwich.

CVW: It is a lot to balance.

JH: I’m certainly not complaining. It’s an uptown kind of problem to have as they would say, but it can be kind of confusing trying to figure out how to keep all the plate spinning and it’s an interesting rubiks cube to figure out. And you can’t high five yourself for getting just one side of the rubiks cube right.

CVW: What would you say has been the highlight of your career?

JH: Things like playing with Billy Gibbons (ZZ Top) was one of my dreams as a kid and just realizing that he’s a wonderful person and getting to spend time with him. He’s an amazing guy, a special guy and he’s not making a big deal about himself. And I find myself just wondering who can I share this stuff with and I just shut up and enjoy it.

Playing with John Paul Jones has been great.

I knew we were friends when we got into an argument and we were able to move on. You never really know somebody until things go wrong and you see how you come out of it.

CVW: Who were your influences growing up and who are they now?

JH: Then it was like the Cramps, Black Flag, Exploited, Misfits…that is what I consumed and I didn’t want to hear anything else.

And music my parents listened to like the Doors and Jackson Browne. And now I listen to a lot of stuff. Right now there’s a guy JD McPherson who’s an incredible singer and songwriter. I love the Arctic Monkeys.

CVW: What advice would you give musicians starting out?

JH: Make music you like and are proud of. You may do that forever and nobody ever hear you but you know you’ve created something you stand behind.

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April 10 to April 16, 2014

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Coachella

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April 10 to April 16, 2014

by Lisa Morgan

Lisa’s Coachella Fest Picks GO TO www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

I

t is important to let everyone know how they got nominated and about the voting process.

Nomination ballots were sent out to over 200 businesses, restaurants, musicians, ad agencies, city officials, CV Weekly readers and CV Weekly staff who all nominated their choices in 76 categories.

They were not allowed to nominate in their own category. For example: if they were the owner of a Mexican restaurant they could not nominate in that category but could nominate other restaurants and someone in a heavy metal

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band couldn’t nominate in that category but could in the other music categories.

Those were then tallied and the 5 people in each category with the most nominations became the 5 on the ballots for you the public to vote on.

You can only vote one time from each computer IP address. You might think you can vote more than once but you cannot! I set it up this way to be as fair as possible to everyone.

So everybody get their vote on!

- Tracy Dietlin, Owner/Publisher

G

roup Love: This US based band that formed in 2009 is returning once again to Coachella and rightly so. Group Love has stood the test of time in an industry somewhat overwhelmed by indie artists with little stamina. They have proven themselves to be legitimate and authentic artists, delivering upbeat relate-able, incredibly unique tunes with a great combination of organic and technological musical collaborations. It’s sonic buffet when it comes to these players while the lyrics still take center stage. An extremely entertaining stage performance is guaranteed. Their documentary, “I’m With You” shows them completely acoustic showing their raw and honest musicianship, then suddenly takes you to the wellproduced, tasty stage production. This band has depth that was developed on an artist commune in Crete, Greece. More than just “hippie bullshit”, the experience on the commune brought together a sturdy friendship and artistic oneness between five artists: Hannah Hooper (vocals, keys), Christian Zucconi (vocals, guitar), Sean Gadd (bass, vocals), Andrew Wessen (guitar, vocals), and Ryan Rabin (drums). The melodic and rhythmic fun never loses touch with the deeper regions of your heart. All ages will fall in love with this band much

like they did with last years Of Monsters and Men. (I would however recommend parental guidance should you be under 18 and want to Google them). www.grouplovemusic.com Kid Cudi: AKA Scott Mescudi, a Kanye West discovery who had great success as a rapper under West’s tutelage announced in 2010 that he was teaching himself how to play the guitar and would be forming a rock band, now known as WZRD, with his longtime friend and frequent collaborator Dot da Genius. In April 2011, while performing at New York City’s Roseland Ballroom, he announced he was launching a label on his own, Wicked Awesome Records. WZRD ultimately released their eponymous debut album on February 28, 2012, under Wicked Awesome and Republic. The album debuted at #3 on the Billboard 200 and at #1 on both the Top Rock Albums and Top Alternative Albums charts. In 2013, Cudi announced his departure from GOOD Music, to focus on Wicked Awesome Records leaving on good terms with West. Cudi remained heavily associated with the label, appearing on West’s sixth album Yeezus, later that year. To date, Kid Cudi has sold over 5.2 million digital singles and has worked with artists such as Kanye West, Jay-Z, Common, Mary J. Blige, David Guetta, Shakira, MGMT, Ratatat, Snoop Dogg and Michael Bolton.

Poetic, melodic and legitimately creative, this country girl loves the roots story telling that this artist delivers with honesty and heart atop beats that move you to your soul and melt your face. Not to mention, I deeply appreciate the strength and integrity in which the Kid has pursued his musical place in the world, taking risks, doing it his way and succeeding.

MGMT, in 2013. Not withstanding minor personnel changes and legal controversies, their collaborations with Kid Cudi and Beck have kept them on the musical map and you can be sure that their recent release will be a substantial part of their performance.

They have a full symphonic, somewhat psychedelic sound rounding out their rock foundation with tenor vocals giving them their own sonic signature. They are, in my opinion, one of the better marriages between electro and rock, leaning a bit more heavily on the electronic side.

Cage the Elephant: This punk/blues/ alt rock band comes out of Bowling Green, Kentucky and has been making noise in the indie alternative rock scene since 2006. They have a huge following both in the UK and the US due to their massive cross genre appeal. I would make a point to see this band known for its extremely energetic live performances and full bodied electronic sound as this band’s tour is sold out through April as they head back east to New York. Lead singer Matt Shultz described the creative process that brought them to their newest album Melophobia (A Fear of Music): “I wanted the making of this music to be comparable to drawing your childhood house purely from memory.

Your mind recreates things that aren’t based so much on physical truth but more based on emotion. I can speak from my own personal experience that pride and fear are always the enemy when you’re creating.

Sometimes we cater toward certain sounds or approaches or deliveries because that is what we think society at that particular time has deemed artistic and we totally lose sight of the fact that art is a form of expression.

On this record, lyrically and musically, we really strove to be better communicators.”

Lana Del Rey: aka New York born Elizabeth Woolridge Grant. She is also referred to as “The Goddess” according to my 22 year old son. This New York singer-songwriter has a dramatic sound that has roots in 1950s and 60s Americana pop culture.

Self-described as a “self-styled gangsta Nancy Sinatra”, she began her career at 18 signing her first recording contract with 5 Points Records in 2007, releasing her first digital album Lana Del Ray in January 2010.

She ultimately bought herself out of the contract signing with Interscope, Polydor, and Stranger Records in 2011. Her debut single was “Video Games” in June of that year. Her sophomore album, Born to Die, was released early the following year and sold over 5 million copies worldwide. The singer draws influence from what she says to be the masters of each genre, including Elvis Presley, Amy Winehouse, Janis Joplin, Nirvana, Eminem, Bruce Springsteen, and Britney Spears. It will be interesting to see how her live performance compares to her very produced recordings that truly echo Spears’ “baby doll” vocals more so than her other chosen “masters”.

MGMT: Featured in Kid Cudi’s release, Pursuit of Happiness, this American rock band was nominated for Best New Artist at the 2010 Grammy Awards, and their track “Kids” was nominated for Best Pop Performance By a Duo or Group with Vocals.

Three years after their Grammy nod, they produced their third and self-titled album,

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April 10 to April 16, 2014

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sports scene

by Julie Buehler

T

It’s the difference between talent and greatness. The key between finishing second and hoisting the trophy.

There’s a comfort in being pretty good.

You can sleep well knowing you compete hard, but targets don’t get get plastered on your back. You’re good enough to be content, just not a threat.

But win, rather, dominate; and the whole world either expounds endlessly on your greatness or looks to take a machete to your knees. A wild pendulum of emotional instability and a razor’s edge of results replace balance and sensibility.

And that where champions find their balance: in that world of sharp contrast.

While fate certainly is known to favor the bold, it’s a fact that scoreboards and record books do as well.

Saturday, April 12th, we’ll watch as local hero and current welterweight champion, Timothy Bradley Jr. does what he’s done all along: win. His way.

her all-or-nothing, bombs-away game plan into the final round, tied for the lead, and pulled away from the rest of the competition with a 68. Only 10 players in the final round broke par. Thompson shattered it.

There’s nothing easy about winning a championship in sports, but there’s one trait champions share that contenders admire: Fearlessness to pave a new path.

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He’s taking on Manny Pacquiao for the second time with a renewed focus to obliterate any doubt that his first victory is deserved. Bradley told me he fights to keep judges happy and his undefeated record suggests he’s been successful at that, but this fight is now to make the fans happy and launch him to new heights.

Could he fail? No question. Is he concerned about that? Not for a moment.

With the Master’s coming up this weekend, the field loaded with talent, but the one man left standing in the green jacket will be the guy who most successfully dashed the critics’ ideas of what he should do and does exactly what he must to win.

It’s fascinating that with all the changes to sports through the decades, with champs getting younger, with media getting bigger, with expectations growing and margin or error shrinking, the one trait that made Ali great, that made Namath a Hall-of-Famer is the same that resonates through champions of today: Fearlessness.

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.

by Flint Wheeler

Eagles stand tall in murky NFL image..

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760-347-8828 the season. People didn’t know who the future Heisman winner was at that point, but they sure did after he completed 25 of 27 passes, threw for 356 yards and 4 touchdowns against the Pitt Panthers. FSU went on to win their games by an average of 42 points a contest. Said Winston: “When we do something, we do it big.”

UCONN basketball coach Kevin Ollie told his players if they’re fearless, they can play. If they aren’t, they can’t. Simple as that. All they did was win the fourth NCAA Championship since 1999 while becoming the first 7-seed to do so and while setting an NCAA record for best free-throw percentage of any team in tournament history.

We witnessed the second youngest winner in a major at the Kraft Nabisco Championship because Lexi Thompson took

April 10 to April 16, 2014

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Fate Favors The Bold…

So Do Scoreboards

here’s nothing easy about winning championships in sports.

We become familiar with teams and individuals that make it look easy because we watch their performances with such wide-eyed wonder, yet fail to connect the daily training, film study and nuances that make them great.

We know about the monstrous Super Bowl win from a brash, overconfident Seattle team. But they built a championship franchise from guys drafted in the later rounds who fight hard with early-round picks for playing time. Guys who come in entitled get their butts handed to them by guys who are hungry.

We saw Florida State ride its immeasurable momentum into history books, but don’t forget they started an unknown redshirt freshman named Jameis Winston early in

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rom DUI’s to domestic abuse and disorderly conduct, no matter how out of bounds football players go off the field, fans are still game to place bets for them winning big on it.

Whenever a notable NFL player gets into trouble off the field, the following media debate topic is as inevitable as an extra point: Is the NFL’s image problem putting the sport in jeopardy?

I applaud the Philadelphia Eagles for waiving DeSean Jackson for (allegedly) apparent ties to gang members and or gang activity.

Sending DeSean down the road is the only high profile example I can think of where an NFL team took image over production. Sadly, DeSean was quickly signed by the Washington Redskins after his career best year. Finally, the knucklehead all-star gets cut. I’ve been waiting for this moment from the NFL my entire life.

Examples of the NFL turning a blind eye are numerous. With the arraignment last week of All-Pro running back Ray Rice. It served as an ugly reminder of the Baltimore Ravens’ star running back being caught on video dragging his unconscious fiancée (Janay Palmer) out of an elevator at an Atlantic City casino. Turns out—according to police—Rice and Palmer were trading blows with each other, with the former (5’8, 212 pounds) not surprisingly winning the fight. Their married now, romance has many shapes and sizes I guess. The Rice story came on the heels of the Darren Sharper case, in which the former safety and NFL Network analyst pleaded not guilty in a Los Angeles court this week in the alleged drugging and rape of two women.

Ho-hum...It’s just another week in the NFL, which apparently provides so much police blotter material that TMZ now has a sports division (no, really...it’s called TMZ Sports, and it was the first to get the Rice elevator video).

All of this news comes as former Pats tight end Aaron Hernandez is awaiting trial for murder. And, as if on cue, as I wrote this, news of Redskins’ tight end Fred Davis being arrested for DUI came across the wire. Crime is seemingly rampant, and according to data compiled by USA Today in September, Commissioner Roger Goodell—who has been on the job for seven years—has seen over 400 of his players arrested or charged with crimes. This includes 107 DUI arrests (because millionaires can’t afford to call a cab after getting overserved), 43 domestic-abuse

cases, 34 gun-related cases, and 84 situations comprising of disorderly conduct or brawling.

Week after week, the news out of the NFL is invariably negative. Baseball has its steroid problems, sure, but it’s got nothing on football when it comes to off-the-field incidents. The NHL and NBA look like the Boy Scouts in comparison to both. Yet, yet…the NFL is looking at about $10 billion in revenue for this upcoming season (for context, NBA revenue was $5 billion last year). NFL ratings continue to climb and continue to dominate.

Merchandise sales have never been higher. Yet another billion-dollar-plus stadium will open this coming season (the 49ers’ new home in Santa Clara).

So when hearing cable news hosts and pundits talk about the NFL being in jeopardy because of an image problem, just know this: Almost all fans see this kind of behavior and collectively shrug. No one expects these guys to be role models off the field.

As long as bets can be placed, nobody’s going to care about a DUI here or a bar fight there. This year’s Super Bowl alone saw a 21 percent increase in legal betting, with $119 million wagered in Nevada alone. Of course, that doesn’t include offshore internet gambling and the kind done through the local bookie, where the FBI estimates an additional $2.5 billion was bet on the game alone). Yup… as long as fantasy football teams can be drafted and created (now 30 million owners and counting) and tailgates with copious amount of food and spirits can be staged, apathy about player behavior will always rule the day.

The ratings, the ticket sales, the billions the networks are paying for TV rights all back that theory up, along with this recent ESPN poll asking the following question: PR problem?

It’s no problem as far as the NFL is concerned.

As a society, we just want our football and all the instant gratification that comes with it.

Players come and go. Some stay clean, some get hurt, and some get arrested.

All are expendable. All can be replaced.

As Gordon Gekko once explained to Bud Fox: “It’s all about bucks, kid. Everything else is just conversation.”

Thank you, Eagles, for cutting DeSean Jackson, now will somebody please follow this example of the right thing to do.

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April 10 to April 16, 2014

Coachella

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by Curtis Hendricks

My Top Picks for Coachella

C

oachella will rock the desert this year with many top names that will surely bring in the crowds. I hope everyone is ready for the crazy traffic, packed grocery stores, and a large shortage of whatever your favorite munchies are.

This CV writer will be making sure I have enough beer to get through the next few weeks.

My first must see will perform on day one. Atlanta based hip hop artists OutKast, André “André 3000” Benjamin and Antwan “Big Boi” Patton, will be everything from rap, rock, and electronic music to blues, funk, jazz, blues and poetry. OutKast’s show is energetic, fun, and any audience member can find what they are looking for in this Dirty South and G-Funk duo. OutKast has a repertoire of Grammy winning and nominated albums, such as The Whole World, Hey Ya! and Speakerboxx/The Love Below.

Day two is filled with great bands. First on the list is Fatboy Slim. This British DJ and record producer is by far the top in his game.

Creating awe inspiring beats and remixes; Fatboy Slim is well respected and can fill a stadium in his own right. In the same day, Skrillex will be filling the valley with his

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amazing electronic music, songwriting, and singing abilities. With six Grammys under his belt, Skrillex is a tried and true artist within the style of electronic music. I’m looking forward to watching every failed dubstep in the crowd when Skrillex performs.

Day three will be, by far, my favorite day of the first week of Coachella. First, I am looking forward to Beck performing. I have been a huge Beck fan since the 1992 release of Golden Feelings. Beck’s mixture of funk, folk, and soul takes you on a journey of grooves and song. Beck is definitely my number two pick of Coachella this year.

My number one pick for Coachella, fronted by one of my rock God idols, is Motorhead. Lemmy is God, and he is coming to Coachella! I’m beginning to feel like I did the first time I saw Ozzy Osbourne, but on a more grand scale. Motorhead formed in 1975 and have developed a seemingly cultish following. If you are a Motorhead, you are a hard core Motorhead fan. I can’t wait to see Lemmy take the stage and rock Coachella like no other has done before.

This English hard rock band will tear it up and hold nothing back. On a small side note, I hear Lemmy is creating a solo album this year.

I am very excited about all the bands playing this year. Many good and great bands will be visiting our valley with the gift of great music and an even better time. All I ask of everyone is to be safe, help each other out, and keep the experience positive for all.

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Coachella

LITTLE DRAGON

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othenburg’s Little Dragon has steadily grown from being the biggest underground secret to international acclaim after three successful albums and touring all over the world. Their energetic live set and unique recording process has made fans out of some of the biggest names in music including Pharrell Williams, Questlove, and OutKast. Gaining popularity among such tastemakers led to collaborations with artists like Big Boi, The Gorillaz, and SBTRKT. The release of Little Dragon’s fourth album, Nabuma Rubberband, is the culminating moment in their career after years of building a grassroots fanbase.

Musically inspired by the more experimental pockets of Prince’s back catalogue, club culture and the vintage Janet Jackson slow jams Yukimi used to listen to wandering around Gothenburg during the unrelenting winter. Nabuma Rubberband has a different feel to previous Little Dragon albums. “When you put some of Janet’s really slow stuff on you feel like you’re floating,” Yukimi explains. “That feeling really influenced me and maybe that’s why there are quite a lot of slow jams on the record. In the past we’ve been a bit self-conscious about making slow jams after

‘Twice’. Then we wanted to make dance music which we did with Machine Dreams and then Ritual Union still had a dance vibe, but with this album it wasn’t about that.

The intention was about whatever we felt strongly about.”

Yukimi Nagano, Erik Boden, Fred Wallin and Håkan Wirenstrand make up Little Dragon, the zeitgeist band that blend strands of R&B, electronic and indie into beautifully and meaningfully crafted songs.

Over the course of three critically-lauded albums, Little Dragon have established themselves as a band keen to never rest on their laurels - constantly prodding and playing with the boundaries of their sound.

Nabuma Rubberband promises to be their most dynamic album yet and is due on 5/13/14 via Loma Vista Recordings.

After a successful Letterman performance and SXSW run, Little Dragon will perform at Coachella and Canadian Music Week then they will continue on the festival circuit with an appearance at Bonnaroo 2014.

For now, if you don’t plan on making Coachella , you can check them out on Wednesday, April 16 at Pappy & Harriet’s in Pioneertown. Also on the bill The Internet.

Local Music Spotlight

Michael Keeth & Martin Barrera

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trolling through downtown La Quinta on a perfect spring night is an enchanting experience any day of the week. But should you find yourself doing so on a Sunday evening between 7 and 10 pm, you will have done yourself a great injustice if you do not stop into The Wine Bar. The beckoning sounds of Michael Keeth’s and Martin Barrera’s music streaming from the classy yet charmingly delicious and welcoming venue will envelope you and make it a night to remember. I stopped in for just a few minutes myself this past Sunday, and found that I could not pull myself away.

Keeth’s voice is a force of nature in itself.

Full of rich texture, perfect pitch and tone, this voice can go from one to 100 decibels in a single, smooth, dynamic leap. Tastefully, and with absolute control, Keeth chooses to only use this near superhuman power when it suits the flavor of the song. Singing popular songs from rock to country, each song has been broken down into its most perfect acoustic form and is delivered with the kind of skill and passion that would stir envy in any of the song’s original artists.

As Keeth weaves in his original songs to his captivated audience, he is constantly asked, “Is that one of yours?”. The crowd responds with absolute delight when the answer is yes. Keeth and Barrera’s audience are a loyal fan base, some of whom come from Canada and make it a point every year to be there with this duo, without fail. At the foundation of every song is an amazingly intuitive blending of acoustic and electric guitar. As Keeth plays adeptly on his acoustic, Martin Barrera (a staple guitarist for years here in the desert) plays tastefully and warmly on his electric with a combination of rhythm, lead and bass notes creating the perfect serving platter for Keeth’s stirring vocals. The end result? A musical journey the quality for which some in the industry are paid in the thousands for.

Yet here these two are, grateful for every tip, CD purchase, round of applause and the fact that they are able to do what they love for an establishment full of people who appreciate them.

Michael Keeth began his melodic adventures singing in the car with his mom.

“I’ve been singing pretty much since I could talk. My mom was a really good singer and she taught me harmonies. I don’t get to do it in the duo, but I love good harmonies.”

Though Keeth’s vocals and guitar playing both sound very trained, he is very much self-taught. “Eagles and U2 were my two favorite bands growing up. I had my mom’s record collection with older Jackson Brown and was exposed to some very good songwriters. Now, I just really like strong songs whether they’re from Zac Brown, Pearl Jam or Tool.” Keeth got his first guitar when he was 14, started song writing at 16, was in his first band at 17 and started recording original music by the age of 18. “I am a firm believer that the song should get what it needs, even if that means less vocal

April 10 to April 16, 2014

by Lisa Morgan

Nominated for Coachella valley’s Best Duo 2014

and more guitar (or visa versa). It needs to be well rounded with both strong music and strong lyrics.” His first solo record, “Shed The Skin” was recorded in 2012 and exhibits just that. A prolific songwriter, two more albums are set to be released by Keeth, one this summer and his third, hopefully by the end of this year. Now 31, Keeth beams when he talks about his wife, Jody, and their 4 year old daughter. “Jody is a gigantic inspiration to me. She really helps me stay focused. We’ve been together for 9 years and our daughter is 4. My daughter is the best thing in the whole world. I am so very thankful every day for my family and to be able to work, doing what I love to do.”

Martin Barrera, Keeth’s first class wing man, is known and respected by his peers throughout the Coachella Valley. Even so, it is not an easy task to get the very understated and humble Barrera to talk about himself. When Keeth points out Barrera to the crowd for his great playing, Barrera becomes obviously uncomfortable with the spotlight. He is much more at ease singing the praises of others, especially Keeth. “Martin is an amazing guitarist,” Keeth boasts. “His ability to learn new songs on the spot and add perfectly placed leads amazes me every time we work on something new. He’s one of the most devoted musicians I’ve ever met. He plays because he loves it, more than for any other reason.” Other stellar musicians who have worked closely with Barrera echo Keeth’s accolades. “Martin is truly one of the most talented guitarists I’ve seen,” shared Linda Heinz, music educator, and keyboardist for CV Weekly’s nominee for best band, Blasting Echo. “He has an excellent ear and could easily sit in with just about any genre band and contribute something amazing.

He’s also a talented songwriter. Despite his incredible talent, he has no ego. He makes whoever he plays with sound 10 times better. Martin is da man!”

“I started singing at age 3,” shared Barrera, “and began playing drums at 13. I

played in my Dad’s band for a bit (traditional music) but ended up gravitating to the rock scene and bands like Kiss. I eventually picked up guitar and moved on to bands like the Allman Brothers and Def Leopard.”

Martin surrounded himself with musicians and bands like Lung Cookie, who were part of the early desert rock scene, eventually playing in a desert band called B Movie Super Stars. “I’ve been playing with Michael for around 2 years. I can read him pretty well and so I pretty much know where he’s going melodically.” You see the intuitiveness of Barrera’s playing as he follows Michael by studying his face or watching his hands on the neck of his guitar. The result: musical perfection. “The people at the Wine Bar really take care of us. They treat us like family. It’s one of my favorite places to play.”

The smiles and attentiveness of the patrons, staff and ownership at The Wine Bar reflect Barrera’s impression. This musical duo has brought something very special to their Sunday nights.

The Wine Bar in Old Town La Quinta is also nominated for Coachella Valley Weekly’s “Best Wine Bar”. Keeth and Barrera are nominated for “Best Duo” and Keeth is nominated for “Best Male Vocal”. All the more reason to pay them all a visit this Sunday. The Wine Bar is located at 78015 Main Street, La Quinta.

You can visit them on their website: www. thewinebaratoldtown.com Martin Barrera can also be seen accompanying the velvety voiced Courtney Chambers at the Westin Mission Hills Fireside Lounge every Saturday night between 7-10pm.

You can also follow Michael Keeth at www.michaelkeethmusic.com

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April 10 to April 16, 2014

Music

PHILM D

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By tracy Dietlin rivals. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential double bass drummers of our era and his passion for music doesn’t just lie in the realm of speed metal. Dave has breathed life into fusion, metal and Latin influenced rock proving his palette is broad and his abilities as a performer are diverse.

His latest endeavor, PHILM, is nothing short of brilliant. His ferocious drum chops drive the heavy metal compositions into hard rock heaven.

PHILM is the musical incarnation of Gerry Nestler, Pancho Tomaselli and Dave Lombardo. Together they take complex heavy metal ideas to unexpected places.

Their debut record Harmonic, is full of masterful demonstrations of the band’s ability to maintain that live feel in the studio. A few weeks ago on Friday, March 28th at Schmidy’s Tavern in Palm Desert, PHILM performed a powerful set of hard hitting, experimental progressive heavy metal featuring the “Godfather of Double Bass” Dave Lombardo.

Intro by Robin Linn

ave Lombardo is an amazing drummer and performer. Born in Cuba and raised in L.A, his love and connection to rhythm was a fire that burned in him from a very young age. As a young student of drums, he was an innovator from early on. Lombardo’s passion and drive for making music saw him making records with Slayer in his late teens. Pioneers in metal, they carved out their place in rock and roll playing speed metal: All masterful musicians who took raw primal emotion and skillfully executed melodic ideas with a skewed sense of time and speed. It takes only moments to become a bonafide fan of all of his musical endeavors. There is a world full of metal drummers out there, but Lombardo brings imagination and a high level of physical performance to the table that surpasses most of his contemporary

INTERVIEW with DAVE LOMBARDO of PHILM

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his interview originally ran before the PHILM show, however, after seeing them perform live at Schmidy’s I felt compelled to rerun this article so all the Coachella Festival peeps coming into town could read it and find out more about Dave Lombardo’s new band.

I have witnessed many hard rock and metal shows, but what I watched during that show was simply amazing musicianship from a powerful trio. I loved the way Lombardo set his kit up front and center with Nester and Tomaselli at his side, all three playing like a well-oiled machine. I was truly in awe of their performance and Lombardo has become my new drum hero.

CVWeekly: How long has PHILM been together?

Dave Lombardo: Well Gerry and I met back in ‘95 and we had the band until about 2004 off and on. Then I also joined Fantamas and Grip Inc. Then Slayer called and I was just swept in this whirlwind of touring with them and couldn’t continue with PHILM. Then the singer of Slayer went in the hospital for spinal surgery and I thought ‘Wow! This band is going to fall apart. I better get another band together.’

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by Tracy Dietlin

And I called Gerry and we’ve been together since. We couldn’t find the original bass player so that’s when Pancho came on.

CVW: PHILM’s music is described as experimental progressive rock on one site and post hardcore on another. What do you feel best describes the band’s sound?

DL: It’s really difficult but let’s narrow it down. It’s definitely heavy. It would lean more heavy into punk then metal. It has musicality to it. It has a lot of melody to it musically but not so much vocally and it has complex chord structures. I think the music is amazing. It’s really hard to categorize it.

CVW: After listening to Harmonic I feel like it is a musical gem and kind of runs the gamut and covers the full spectrum of everything. It kind of took me on a mystical journey.

DL: It even has elements of jazz and psychedelic. We were even calling it at one point funkadelic punk. So that’s the genre I would call it…with a punk attitude (laughing).

CVW: So Harmonic was released in May of 2012. And you’re working on a new disc correct?

DL: Yes. We’re actually working on

the third album as we speak. The second is already finished and we’re looking to release it as soon as we clear up the details of which record label we’re going with.

CVW: How does the music on the second (to be titled: Fire From the Evening Sun) and third albums differ from Harmonic?

DL: The band has had a chance to grow musically. Harmonic had about 5 songs that were with the old bass player so then Pancho came in and the new songs were written with him after we had gone out on tour together and we’re more of a unit now. Now Pancho really understands mine and Gerry’s writing methods. The songs on the second album are more concise and structured.

The third album we have about 5 songs that are still in their skeletal form without vocals yet and are much heavier. And I’ve added double bass on the third album which I didn’t do on the first two. I’m kind of rediscovering myself and reinventing myself. That album is a whole different direction.

CVW: So when you come to the desert will you be performing any of the new material from the two new albums?

DL: No just songs off Harmonic. Although there might be one song off the third record but it’s more of a drum solo. It’s like a piece…a drumming showcase.

CVW: I know you have been involved in several bands over the years but would you say that PHILM is your main priority right now?

DL: At this point yes. I really want the world to listen to these musicians. They offer something new to music. I really like the style and the energy that this band has to offer and I think it’s really different from what’s out there in music today. I don’t think there are a lot of people focusing on the power trio like they used to back in the ‘60s and ‘70s. Sometimes less is more.

CVW: Do you feel like you have more freedom for yourself in PHILM than other bands you’ve been in?

DL: Absolutely. On the second album there’s a song that’s all piano and some light strumming guitars that breaks down in the middle to this Latin session with some horns and percussion and it just shows how the musicians involved in this band are very well-rounded.

ROBIN LINN’S DESERT RHYTHMs

BRAVE BLACK SEA

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he members of Brave Black Sea are no strangers to desert rock enthusiasts all over the globe. Three of its four members have played in some of the most groundbreaking desert rock bands of our day. Damon Garrison on bass guitar and guitarist Chris Hale joined forces with vocalist John Garcia just after the breakup of Kyuss and formed the band Slo Burn in the mid-nineties. Slo Burn was one of the original psychedelic hard rock bands that came from the same desert that gave birth to such bands as Queens of the Stone Age and featured some of its original members, including Kyuss/QOTSA drummer and founding member, Alfredo Hernandez who joined on just before SB disbanded. Slo Burn recorded their debut record, Amusing The Amazing which was released on artist/producer Frank Kozic’s label, Man’s Ruin, and found some significant success. Then they made the bold move to Hollywood, regrouped, changed their name to Prizefighter and eventually disbanded. But, just as Slo Burn rose from the ashes of Kyuss, now from the ashes of Slo Burn rises Brave Black Sea. Brave Black Sea is Damon Garrison on vocals, Chris Hale on guitar, Clint Cunningham on bass and Alfredo Hernandez on drums.

Their live show is high energy desert rock at its finest. They blend crunchy metallic guitar lines with psychedelic mood altering effects, a thunderous, straight forward rhythm section and riveting hard rock vocal lines that are full

April 10 to April 16, 2014

FROM THE ASHES OF KYUSS AND SLO BURN RISE THE TIDES OF THE NEXT DESERT ROCK BAND TO BREAK OUT OF THE DESERT!

of raw emotion and memorable melodies.

Together they have created a desert rock band that enlists the spirit of stoner rock, the heaviness of metal and the attitude of punk creating uncompromising rock and roll. Their self-produced debut record, Fragments was picked up by Virgin Records European label V2 Records and is now available on I-Tunes and Amazon.UK. The three tracks I have absorbed from YouTube are all gorgeous examples of the unique and distinctly hard rock compositions that can be found on the new record which I fully intend to make part of my home collection.

RL: I asked Damon Garrison about what inspired his deeply passionate and often haunting lyrics which quite honestly moved me in songs like “The Five Visitors’, “Silence is Golden’ and the first official video release from the album, “Running Away”......

DAMON GARRISON: I like to keep the lyrics open for interpretation. I never say what they’re about. I like to keep that open for the listener. When Brave Black Sea got together we just wanted to make good music, we didn’t really look farther than that.

We had no style in mind just wanted to play music we wanted to hear. We recorded this album in our warehouse all on our own. We had it mixed by Mudrock. It’s being released on April 7th in Europe. We are working on a world-wide deal. We will be touring Europe this summer. We are just a rock n roll band, not trying to fit any niche just doing what we

love to do.

RL: This June BBS leaves for Europe to tour in support of the brand new record. I asked Bassist Clint Cunningham to fill me in on the details......

CLINT CUNNINGHAM: As far as tours go, Europe will be our first and we are heading out in June. It’s going to be just over 2 weeks playing mainly in the UK and Germany with a couple dates in Italy and Switzerland.

We hope to be back to Europe at the end of summer or early fall with a longer tour planned so we can hit a lot more cities over there and some of the festivals. After that I’m sure we will plan a major US tour. We’re just very excited to be getting out on the road and playing in front of live audiences! We are actually supposed to be opening for Simple Minds on one of the last dates of our tour which should be pretty amazing.

RL: I have been a fan of drummer Alfredo Hernandez for as long as I can remember. He has been the driving force behind so many significant music projects including Kyuss and the very first desert jam band, the first authentic desert jam band, Across The River, which featured Mario Lalli and Scott Reeder, the earliest version of Queens Of The Stone Age (whose ground breaking debut self-titled record featured Josh Homme on bass, guitar and vocals, Alfredo on drums), and later Slo Burn, punk rock band Family Butcher, and currently Whiskey & Knives, Hot Beat Pussy Fiend, and Rawbone. Now he has rejoined forces with some of his earliest bandmates from Slo Burn to form Brave Black Sea, a band who is already receiving critical acclaim in the press for their brand new debut album, Fragments. I asked Alfredo about the new premier video, making music in the desert, and where the desert’s music scene here as evolved to since the early days....

ALFREDO HERNANDEZ: The music video for “Running Away” was done by Zack Byer and Mike Arfuso, two film makers from Las Vegas. Byer and Arfuso were very professional and cool to work with, and we thought that the outcome was amazing considering that this was their first ever

music video. The video was sponsored by Visions Magazine, a kind of Rolling Stone of Europe, and premiered March 20th on MTV Europe. In the first week alone we had gotten over 4,000 hits!

We’ve all been in different projects over the years and the Coachella Valley, this place we call home, has become a huge mecca for music. I remember when it all started with the punk scene back in the late 70’s - early 80’s. Then, there wasn’t nearly as much out here, and the few bands that were, were underground and played in small environments. Now, there is a tremendous amount of bands in our valley! Coachella, one of the largest music festivals in the world, is in our own back yard, and we now even have a Guitar Center. The desert is one of the most beautiful places and has come a long way. Having been fortunate enough to tour the world over the years, I’ve become more inspired with this valley. We are ready for whatever comes next.

In closing I want to let readers know that this band has been working together and apart developing as players for over two decades and the musicianship is amazing!

A live Brave Black Sea show is enthralling, exhilarating, and a world class music experience. They have remained true to themselves, creating their own unique brand of original hard rock. Their love for the music surpasses all and it is clear when you listen to the compositions that make up the new record Fragments. Why Europe is always first to recognize a band as significant as Brave Black Sea is beyond me. I know there have to be tens of thousands of hard rock fans that recognize the music that comes out of the desert is like nowhere else on earth. I want to see Americans buying these records, getting out to these shows and offering bands of this stature the fan support they so richly deserve. The band does plan to play for hometown fans before they take off for the European tour in June. I will keep you well aware of when and where that show takes place.

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April 10 to April 16, 2014

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

by Eleni P. Austin

D

DAVID CROSBY

avid Crosby has led a charmed existence for at least 50 of his 72 years. He was born David Van Cortlandt Crosby in 1941. His mother, Aliph, was a descendent of the prominent Van Cortlandt family. His father Floyd was an Academy Award winning cinematographer.

David and his older brother Ethan grew up in Hollywood and small beach communities like Santa Barbara and Carpinteria. At an early age, David was exposed to Classical and Folk music. Family sing-a-longs revealed a preternatural gift for harmony.

During his teen years, David’s brother, Ethan, introduced him to the cool West Coast Jazz of Gerry Mulligan and Chet Baker. Even as David was starring in school musicals, his academic performance was so poor he was asked to leave two different schools.

For David, his prodigious musical talent was a means to an end. Initially, he figured being an actor would work as the perfect pickup line. But movies took too long. Saying he was a musician and then getting up at a coffee house to sing was an instant aphrodisiac.

Crosby gravitated toward the Folk scene in Greenwich Village, initially as a member of Les Baxter’s Balladeers. Singer/songwriter, Fred Neil became a mentor. Producer Jim Dickinson produced Crosby’s first solo sessions. He loved the Village ambiance, but as a native Californian, couldn’t really take the harsh New York winters.

By 1964, he returned to Los Angeles and hooked up with Roger (ne’ Jim) McGuinn. A former member of the Chad Mitchell Trio, McGuinn had been making ends meet as a session musician. Inspired by the Beatles, McGuinn and Crosby recruited Gene Clark, Chris Hillman and Michael Clarke and the Byrds (originally known as the Jet Set, and then the Beefeaters) were born.

The Byrds pretty much invented FolkRock by adding drums, sturdy harmonies and chiming Rickenbacker guitar riffs to the Folk songs by Bob Dylan and Pete Seeger. As they began composing songs, disparate influences like John Coltrane and Ravi Shankar resulted

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“Croz” (Blue Castle Records)

in trippy tracks like “Eight Miles High,” and “So You Want To Be A Rock ‘N’ Roll Star.”

But five healthy egos could not be contained in one band. David Crosby jumped ship when the band refused to record “Triad,” his paean to ménage a trois. (Jefferson Airplane later covered it).

Crosby drifted a bit, indulging in his passion for sailing. He first heard Joni Mitchell sing in a tiny Folk club in Coconut Grove, Florida.

He was so impressed with her music, that he brought her back to Los Angeles, insisting she play guitar and sing for a number of his friends. Crosby helped secure Mitchell’s first record contract. His presence as “Producer” on Mitchell’s debut insured that she had complete autonomy.

David Crosby connected with Stephen Stills in 1968 at Mama Cass’ house. Buffalo Springfield had recently broken up and the two were at loose ends. They began jamming and were later joined by Graham Nash. They persuaded Nash to ditch his popular British Invasion band, The Hollies and join them permanently.

Their eponymous debut, released in 1969, presented a combination of ethereal harmonies and socially conscious songs. It was an immediate hit. The following year, Neil Young joined up and the quartet recorded Déjà vu. It garnered rave reviews and even greater sales. But the death of Crosby’s girlfriend, Christine Hinton, prevented him from fully enjoying his success. It also provided the catalyst for Crosby’s descent into

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drug addiction.

To keep from wallowing in the grief, Crosby enlisted a posse of famous pals to record his first solo album, If I Could Only Remember My Name. For the next 15 years, he continued to write, tour and record in different combinations: Crosby-Nash, CSN and CSN &Y. The results were mixed as drug consumption became his true vocation. He functioned, but his “lost weekend” lasted almost 20 years.

By 1985, strung out from freebasing cocaine, David Crosby was on the run from the law. He finally got clean following a nine month stint in a Texas prison. He was allowed to start a band in prison, but had to say goodbye to his long hair and trademark Walrus moustache.

Since becoming (relatively) clean and sober in the late ‘80s, Crosby has faced a series of triumphs and setbacks with his usual leonine grace. He married his longtime girlfriend Jan Dance in 1987.

In 1994 their house was destroyed in the Northridge earthquake, Crosby also underwent a liver transplant. At the same time he connected with his son, James Raymond, who had been given up for adoption at birth. (Crosby also has two grown daughters, Donovan Anne and Erica).

After undergoing fertility treatments, Jan gave birth to the couple’s son, Django. Despite dealing with Hepatitis C, Type 2 Diabetes and heart disease, Crosby has continued to write record and tour. When Stills, Nash and Young weren’t available he formed CPR with Jeff Pevar and his son, James Raymond. They toured and recorded two studio albums and two live efforts.

Although Crosby has recorded many albums in group settings, he has only released two other solo efforts since his debut, Yes I Can in 1989 and Thousand Roads in 1993.

Finally, 20 years on, he has released his fourth solo album, simply entitled Croz.

Croz begins tentatively with “What’s Broken.” Over a slippery melody the lyrics explore the feeling of being alone in a crowd.

The tune is anchored by brushed drums, fluid Fender Rhodes fills and a slithery guitar solo, courtesy ex-Dire Straits front man, Mark Knopfler. Crosby’s social conscience has never diminished. That remains evident on at least four tracks, “Time I Have,” “Radio,” “Set That Baggage Down” and “Dangerous Night.”

“Time..” opens gingerly, just slight percussion and acoustic guitar. The song gathers steam as Crosby rails against complacency…”There’s so much disturbing short--sighted shit, we must do better than just live with it/ Fear soaks into the concrete just like grease, fear is the antithesis of peace.”

A keening electric guitar solo underscores his frustration.

“Radio” is a propulsive, piano driven rocker. Here Crosby uses a nautical metaphor to illustrate how the 1% has an obligation to support the other 99%. The storm that rages is economical, and we must all lend a helping

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April 10 to April 16, 2014

hand… “Your hands are slippery, you feel like turning away to run free/But you can pull someone out of the sea.” “…Baggage” blends sharp angular guitar riffs and handclap percussion. Crosby’s multitracked harmonies are “Almost Cut My Hair” dissonant as he urges to let go of past mistakes and emotional burdens.

On “Dangerous Night” a martial cadence propels a series of fluttery piano notes.

Crosby is still kicking against the pricks…”I try to write Buddha and it comes out guns, I vote for peace and the blood still comes/ I want to believe I can pass happy to my child, but the truth gets lost and the system runs wild…I’m a troubled soul searching for peace in the night.”

Two songs, “Holding On To Nothing” and “Slice Of Time,” allow Crosby to stretch in a jazzy direction.” The former is hushed and elegant: Minimal accompaniment from acoustic guitar, organ and fretless bass place Crosby’s dulcet vocals in the spotlight.

A melancholy trumpet solo from Wynton Marsalis washes over this contemplative gem.

The latter is a spiritual cousin to Crosby’s “Déjà vu.” Shifting time signatures are accented by minor key piano clusters and intertwined guitar. Crosby’s phrasing is sharp and economical as he points out the obvious, time is ephemeral.

Other interesting tracks include the acoustic reverie of “The Clearing,” and “Morning Falling” which matches apocalyptic visions to a plaintive melody.

The album closes with the jazzy tour de force of “Find A Heart.” The intricate arrangement of this supple melody owes a cosmic debt to Steely Dan’s “Aja.” Weaving a tapestry of piano, Fender Rhodes, synthesizer, percussion and acoustic guitar, each takes a moment to shine. Crosby’s vocal gymnastics recall the sophisticated elan’ of Jazz vocalese pioneers, Lambert, Kendricks and Ross. Sharp soprano sax notes dart in and out of the mix like a Hummingbird.

David Crosby co-produced Croz with Daniel Garcia and his son, James Raymond. Raymond also co-wrote many of the songs.

David Crosby’s extracurricular activities might always overshadow his prodigious musical talents. That’s a shame. Croz is probably his most assured effort to date. A triumphant addition to a rich musical legacy.

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April 10 to April 16, 2014

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

PET PLACE

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

by Janet McAfee

B

ystanders do a double take when an amazing, doggie decorated limousine cruises along Coachella Valley streets. What celebrities could be inside? Curious stares are riveted when the limo stops, the door swings open, and the little 4-legged passengers trot out. Some of our Coachella Valley shelter dogs are on board, now living a good life in foster homes and on a journey around town to find their forever homes. Loving All Animals, a Palm Desert animal welfare organization, received a donated limousine and decorated the windows with a dog motif. It is a moving billboard encouraging the adoption of shelter animals with the message “From a Home in a Shelter to the Shelter of Your Home” written in large bold lettering along the sides.

Now Loving All Animals offers something unique to assist pet seekers to find their perfect match. In addition to transporting adoptable dogs to public venues and new homes, they now transport pet seekers to local public and private shelters. These limousine shelter tours are a big hit with

female shepherd This lovely, lively girl dreams about getting a home with you! She’s just a pup at 9 months. Come meet her at the Coachella Valley Animal Campus, 72-050 Pet Land Place, Thousand Palms.

Dog ID#A1095272. Call (760) 343-3644 for hrs and directions to shelter.

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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pet seekers who may not know the location of our public shelters. Most people don’t know about the diverse private shelters and rescue groups that also offer adoptable dogs and cats. Karen, a passenger on last month’s shelter tour reported, “I live here part time and didn’t know where the shelters are located. This has been a fabulous experience. Our tour guide was extremely knowledgeable. We met dozens of dogs and had so much fun.” Karen’s Golden doodle dog, Kallie, accompanied the tour to ensure compatibility with her new sister dog.

Each tour includes as many shelters as time permits. The first stop is the beautiful Pet Rescue Center in Coachella where the homelike setting, beautiful grounds and agility course defy the stereotype of a gloomy animal shelter. Then we cruise down the 10 freeway towards Thousand Palms to the Coachella Valley Animal Campus.

This modern structure with roomy indoor/ outdoor kennels is our local Riverside County shelter which serves eight Coachella Valley cities. They have the largest number of animals, and we have the opportunity to

by Rick Riozza

Wine & Food Mix About Town

Limousine Shelter Tours Making Matches!

F

visit with some of them in private visiting areas. Next door is Animal Samaritans’ state-of-the-art veterinary clinic, and if director Fred Saunders is around we might get a private tour of their facility. Tour participants get to meet more dogs and cats at the Animal Samaritans shelter around the corner on Ramon Road. Then it’s on to Desert Hot Springs to visit Save A Pet, a private nonprofit shelter where we are warmly greeted by kennel manager, Stacey Lawler.

If potential adopters are interested in large dogs, the Humane Society of the Desert in Palm Springs is a good resource.

The newly built Palm Springs Animal Shelter, with a modern surgical suite and nicely designed pet boutique, is nothing like what you see on those tear wrenching ASPCA commercials. Sometimes we may make a stop at a beautiful pet hotel, The Pet Hotel at Barkingham Palace, where there are a few foster dogs seeking homes. Along the way, we point out rescue-friendly pet businesses such as Cold Nose Warm Heart pet boutique where many adoption events are hosted.

These limousine shelter tours may be the only program of its kind in the entire country.

The intent is to make adopting a shelter animal a fun and educational experience.

The intent is to showcase rescue animals as wonderful and loving companions. The intent is to change the perception still held

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.

by some that shelter animals are “mangy flea-bitten mutts” and that shelters are depressing concrete buildings.

Most shelter dogs and cats are gorgeous, loving, and grateful creatures that bring untold joy to the people who adopt them. They transform our lives with their joy and amaze us with their unique personalities. We believe this unique vehicle impacts public perception about rescue animals, perhaps having a subliminal effect to transform their thinking. Rescue animals are glamorous and wonderful creatures.

Are you looking for that perfect new furfriend? Know someone who is seeking a new animal? If you are looking for a specific breed, your local shelters and rescue groups can be a great resource. It is estimated that 30% of the dogs in public shelters are pure breeds. When you reserve your spot on the shelter tour, you can let Loving All Animals know what type of pet you seek, and they will check in advance with the shelters. This writer is happy to be one of the tour guides.

Shelter tours are offered twice a month.

For information or to make a reservation, call Loving All Animals at (760) 8347000. Tours leave from their Palm Desert location. Upcoming tours are scheduled for Wednesday, April 23, and Saturday, May 3. Join the fun, and meet your “purrfect” match.

April 10 to April 16, 2014

un wine times this season—yeah?

I’ve never been to so many wine and food events since I’ve been out here.

Definitely an economic resurgence in the valley. Let’s take this column to catch up on and look forward to some notable venues to keep in mind when thinking about wine trekking and dining.

First off—you foodies will be thrilled to know that five young chefs from the La Quinta High School Culinary Arts Institute have won the chance to compete in the finals of the 2014 National ProStart Invitational in a nationwide cooking competition taking place in Minneapolis this May. To support the program, Miramonte Resort will be hosting a “Grand Tasting” fund raising dinner.

The event will take place on Thursday, April 17th, from 6pm – 8pm and is $50 per person. The Institutes’ award-winning menu will create a Moroccan-themed dinner featuring Mussels Potage Marrakech as an appetizer, Moroccan Rockin’ Chicken for the main course and a dessert of Tangier Poached Pears. Yum! “We are thrilled to support the La Quinta H.S.Culinary Arts Institute and encourage the community to join us for an exceptional evening of delicious food prepared by these future culinarians,” said Jim Pedone, Regional Director, Sales & Marketing for Miramonte Resort & Spa. “With the significance of the restaurant and hospitality industry in our community it’s vital that we encourage our kids to pursue their dreams, and with this distinguished program, students are given a head start towards a rewarding culinary career.”

To help raise funds themselves, the students have created their own date chutney and date syrup which sells at Shields Date Garden. So c’mom—let’s help them out as well. Bon Appétit !

For tickets or more information on the Grand Tasting at Miramonte Resort & Spa, contact La Quinta High School at (760) 7724150 ext. 152.

And now, for our Wine & Food Medley of Moments & Mixes: Talk about a high-end wine dinner—the Bellatrix Restaurant, at the Classic Club Golf Resort, recently hosted the fantastic Palmaz Winery and their collection of red and white wines to match the exquisite cuisine of Chef Gerald Brunett. Food & wine managers, Ruan and Christina—thanks for keeping our wine community happy and satiated!

The winery, and, the winemaking process at Palmaz in Napa Valley is amazing. It all takes place within the living rock of Mount George, in a flawlessly engineered maze of tunnels and lofty domes, you’ve got an underground wine cave whose height is equivalent to an 18-story building, “providing

the vertical range needed for true gravityflow winemaking”—you think? The result is a complex, elegant wine.

Their Cabernet Sauvignon, of which we enjoyed the 2009 and 2010 vintages, is stellar! These wines sell for $180 a bottle and continually sell out every year.

I always recommend this venue with their great bar and happy hour—and wine tastings as well. Bellatrix Restaurant, Palm Desert (760) 601-3690 By the way, I ran into the Classic Club’s General Manager, Greg Rubino, at the Food + Wine Festival over in Palm Desert. As to the food, some of the best “bites” on hand were Wolgang Puck’s braised short-ribs, Babe’s Barbeque’s “Chicken Leg Osso Buco”, Sullivan’s Mac n’ Cheese—was that the best or what!, Figue Mediterranean’s scrumptious scallops and the refreshing Octopus Gazpacho from Chef Drew at Catalan.

As to the wine, Greg—who’s definitely a wine guy—and I definitely enjoyed the luscious Kathryn Hall Napa Valley wines that were poured. One of the best food & wine pairing dinners in recent memory was when the U.S Ambassador to Austria—yes, the same Kathern Hall, brought her wines to pair with Austrian-born Executive Chef Johannes’ cuisine at his eponymous Palm Springs restaurant. The meal and wine were marvelous!—the guests still talk about that one.

In fact, you can ask Costa Nichols, owner of Desert Wine & Spirits in Palm Springs, about it—he was at the dinner! And now he and his crew have moved to a new suite--#22, at the Sun Center Shopping Mall, 611 S Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs. (760) 327-7701 The wine and foodie community has been anticipating this move for a while for the shop now has an excellent deli to match their excellent wine selection. Join in on the opening celebration this April 16, at 3pm and then join in on an Italian Wine Tasting to complete the day’s festivities. I’ll be covering that event, so see ya there!

Also, in mentioning Catalan Mediterranean Restaurant earlier: Adelante!!

Catalan’s Wine Director, Mark Davies, has obtained the moment’s most desirable wine: WineSpectator’s 25th Anniversary Wine of the Year! The Cune Rioja Imperial Gran Reserva 2004. There’s no question that La Rioja is one of the best wine districts in Europe. Bravo! España and to Mark for grabbing a case of that wine for us to try.

While we’re talking Spain, we had a really fun time over at Tinto Restaurant at the Saguaro Hotel where famed Iron Chef Jose Garces was on hand with Executive Chef John Tice for a fabulous wine pairing dinner one night and on the next, a cooking demonstration & book signing where a lively party followed as we enjoyed wines from Bokisch Vineyards with their Spanish varietals.

And really quick—the Desert Sun’s Lynn Lieu and I along with other media peeps were gathered at Pinzimini at the Westin’s Mission Hills Golf Resort & Spa where we joyfully experienced Restaurant Chef Shawn Aoki’s new Chef’s Tasting Menu for which I counted six courses along with six premium wines! Look for more of my coverage on this tasty deal!

Stay tuned: Fantasy Springs Resort & Spa

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

has brought back their Sip of the Desert Wine & Spirits Event. Last month, we tasted over 20 wines top quality wines from around the world. For this month’s event call 760.328.5727 for reservations.

Now take a breath & take a bite! Ciao!

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2/13/14 12:50 PM

April 10 to April 16, 2014

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

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 10 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 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 w/ DJG 4pm 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 Mickey Avalon & Thr3 Strykes 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/ Chad Freeman & Redline 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 FYF Presents Afghan Whigs w/ Brody Dalle 7pm, FYF Pesents Goat & Holy Wave 11:30pm

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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 TILTED KILT; PD; 760-773-5458 Zee Gudda “Time To Get It” Release Party 9pm 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 Foam Party !! 9pm

FRI APRIL 11 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 Desert Gold w/ Stronghold Reggae 10pm 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 DJ Bent 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 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 Hot Sauce 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 Alyce Bowie 6:30pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 Solid Ray Woods 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, Gino Matteo & Jade Sidebar Lounge 7pm, Tori Roze & The Hot Mess 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 DJ All Night Shoes w/ Synthetix 10pm 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 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. 1:30-

4:30pm, Nite Fixx 9-2am, DJ Anwaar Hines 9-2am VUE GRILLE & BAR; IW; 760-834-3800 Slim Man Solo Show 5:30pm, John McCormick & The Mac Band w/ DJ Randy Johnson 9:30pm WILLIE BOYS; MV; 760-363-3343 Walt Young 6pm 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 12 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 Comedy Night 7:30pm BAR; PS; 760-537-7337 DJ Bent 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 Nicky Vallee 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 The Hive Minds 8pm HARD ROCK HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9676 DJ Colourvision w/ DJ Kid Wonder, 11am poolside, 9pm Lobby THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 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; 760-3252794 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 Hot Sauce 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 Reaction 6:30pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 The Shadow Mountain Band 5pm, Moonsville Collective 8pm PJ’S SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-228-1199 Aced-Hi 9pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Pocket Yellow 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 Bikini Bar V.I.P. Pool Party w/ DJ Garth Trinidad & Mateo Senolia 11am, Chiki Bar V.I.P. Pool Party w/ DJ Shasta noon, Martin Ross, Starlite Lounge 6pm, Tori Roze, Sidebar Patio 7pm, JayaR Sidebar Lounge 10pm, DJ Shasta, Starlite Lounge 10pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Evaro Brothers 8pm SCHMIDY’S; PD; 760-837-3800 DJ Pedro Le Bass w/ The Medic 10pm 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 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 10 to April 16, 2014

SUN APRIL 13 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; 760-325-2794 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

OPEN MONDAY THRU SATURDAY 4PM - 2AM SUNDAY 6PM - 2AM

12105 PALM DRIVE DESERT HOT SPRINGS

(760) 251-2644

continue to page 24

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April 10 to April 16, 2014

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

The Pampered Palate

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

April 10 to April 16, 2014

By Raymond Bill

Don Diego’s

I

t seems that everywhere I turn in this valley, a new Mexican restaurant has opened. I don’t mind trying the new restaurants but I always come back to my favorites. This week, I treated my girlfriend to Don Diego’s of Indian Wells for some strong margaritas and a great meal.

Although located at the end of a strip mall on the main highway, you would never know once you enter the restaurant. We dined outside under the stars near a large fountain and immediately felt at ease.

The restaurant was full, both inside and out on the patio. We waited briefly while a table was set for us. I enjoy dining in a full restaurant; it means they’re doing something right. Greeting us with a smile, Jose offered us a beverage and we obliged. We began with some guacamole

to accompany the chips and salsa that had arrived shortly after we were seated. I must say, and I have said this many times before, Don Diego’s has the best guacamole in the desert! Our Cadillac Margaritas were quite strong, enough that we did not need a second.

Once we were settled and had reviewed the menu, we selected an appetizer of shrimp cocktail to share. It was served in a tall glass and reminded me of my many trips to Ensenada to visit my Aunt. The shrimp were fresh and delicious! For entrees, I ordered the Fajitas, a combination of filet mignon and chicken. My date ordered a chicken tamale and chicken enchilada.

Placed before me was a cast iron skillet, sizzling with peppers and onions mixed with big chunks of tender steak and chicken. It was a generous portion that I was unable to finish in one sitting, but I savored every

last bite the following day. These are certainly the best fajitas for the price in the valley! The tamale and enchilada were well presented and generous in portion as well.

Other highlights of the meal worth mentioning were that the beans were a perfect creamy texture and the chips were crisp and warm. Nothing beats fresh chips and guacamole! Also, the live guitar music played on the patio is a nice unobtrusive touch. I am not a fan of loud mariachi and gaudy costumes. The entertainment is perfect for all audiences. The large patio is also dog friendly.

We finished our evening with a light dessert. Sopaipilla is an authentic Mexican fried bread, similar to a doughnut or beignet. It was served with light whipped cream, fresh berries and ice cream. Though I thought I was full, this light dessert never stood a chance. What a perfect ending to a perfect meal.

Don Diego’s is also open for breakfast Thursday through Saturday from 8am to 11am and Sunday from 8am to 1pm.

Lunch and dinner are available daily. I would recommend stopping in for their “Fiesta Hour” between 3pm and 6pm daily for reduced priced drinks and try the guacamole. Chances are you will want to make a reservation for dinner before you leave! Don Diego’s of Indian Wells is located at the Southwest corner of Cook St. and Hwy 111 in the Village Shopping Center.

For information or reservations, call them at 760-340-5588 or visit www.dondiegorestaurant.com

“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

$2 DRAFT BEERS $5 APPETIZERS

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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April 10 to April 16, 2014

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Movie Reviews with Robin E. Simmons

N

COOL NEW INDIES

ew independent films include feature debuts of two gifted directors and a strange and highly disturbing documentary from a seasoned pro. See them at Palm Desert’s Cinemas Palme d’Or starting Friday April 11.

BLUMENTHAL

Written and directed by Seth Fisher, this dark and intermittently hilarious piece of acerbic irony is about the aftermath of the death of fêted playwright Harold Blumenthal -- who expired in a seizure brought on by laughing at his own joke. The unlikely result of this sad event forces Saul, Harold’s insanely jealous brother, to confront his own issues including massive constipation.

And then there’s Cheryl and Ethan, Harold’s wife and son, who must now face their own increasingly bizarre and unlikely problems that loom like crazed pages straight out of the late Harold’s own plays. The world of the story is set in New York City among would-be Jewish intellectuals. At first the movie reminded me of Woody Allen territory. But Fisher’s world is more like an alternate NYC’s experienced through a house of mirrors. People and places are recognizable, but more than a tad off-kilter.

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Fisher is definitely someone to watch.

When his movie works, it is scathing and pitch-perfect in not only nailing pretense, but also spotlighting the absurdity of real life at the same time.

BREATHE IN

You may find the premise very familiar; that is, a dad (Guy Pierce) becoming enamored with a female foreign exchange student (Felicity Jones) his daughter’s age, but you have certainly not experienced anything like the tense unfolding of this domestic drama.

Pierce and Jones are terrific as they dance around each other’s emotions.

Pierce is perfect as a Keith Reynolds, former musician now a piano teacher. Jones is wonderful as Sophie Williams, the pretty, intelligent, curious and gifted pianist and boarder. To further muddle the matter, Keith is not only Sophie’s host, but also her teacher. The attraction is explosive and dangerous as Sophie re-ignites Keith’s long dormant dreams and desires. But Keith’s wife Megan and his daughter Lauren, a high school senior, are also in the picture and of course under the same roof. Keith and Sophie share an intense creative desire. Cowriter and director Drake Doremus guides this cautionary romantic dilemma through a labyrinth of longing like it’s a minefield.

Watching the movie for the first time, there were moments when I was barely breathing. It’s rare to feel such excruciating

Screeners No.107

tension between fear and desire on screen.

What will these two characters sacrifice or succumb to -- and what will be the cost? I was caught up in the powerful emotion of this very human love story and became extremely concerned regarding its seemingly inevitable outcome. I can think of few films that had such a heartrending, but satisfying conclusion.

polite and Rumsfeld is never ruffled. The 81-year-old former Secretary of Defense is glib and flippant. But Rumsfeld comes across as a cypher, not so much mysterious but hollow and soulless. There’s no selfreflection because there’s no one in the mirror. Rumsfeld is like a character on the cutting room floor of Stanley Kubrick’s DR. STRANGELOVE. Too horrifying even for a black comedy. Morris’ film is hypnotically engaging and scarier than you can imagine.

THE UNKNOWN KNOWN If you’re waiting for Defense Donald Rumsfeld to make some kind of public confession or perhaps an apology, you will have a very long wait based on what master documentarian Errol Morris has captured here. However, that said, this remains an engrossing examination of Rumsfeld’s controversial career. Using once classified documents, Morris talks Rumsfeld through his association with four Republican presidents and events that include Vietnam, the Cold War, Desert Storm, the so-called “War on Terror,” Iraq’s elusive Weapons of Mass Destruction, Abu Ghraib and the torture of captured “terrorists.” Throughout, Morris remains

Desert Writers Expo 2014

NEW FOR THE HOME THEATER: AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY

A great cast has fun chewing up the scenery in this long, tedious and finally depressing circus about a dysfunctional Oklahoma family reunion. Thankfully, the movie version has been shortened by nearly an hour from the stage version. Today, there remains widespread dismay that Tracy Lett’s play won a Pulitzer Prize. The disc has a director’s commentary, deleted scenes and featurettes. Starz/Anchor Bay. Blu-ray.

Also available are JUSTIN BEIBER’S BELIEVE (Universal.

Blu-ray) and PARANORMAL ACTIVITY: THE MARKED ONES (Paramount. Blu-ray).

Comments? robinesimmons@aol.com

he Palm Springs Writers Guild held its annual Desert Writers Expo last week at the Rancho Mirage Library with 41 authors showcasing and selling their work.

The guild has 270 members from beginners to professionals in all writing genres.

“The Desert Writers Expo is part of our total set of programs to help writers,” said James McFarlin, President of the Palm Springs Writers Guild. “We can take writers from the beginning all the way through publishing. This is a unique event for up-and-coming writers as well as professionals in the valley. You don’t have to be a name author to participate.”

The majority of those participating in the Expo were guild members. Following is a small sample of the talent and their titles.

Besides being the PSWG President, McFarlin is also the author of Aftershock (Darryl James, 470 pages). His novel is a political thriller about cyber terrorists who plunge Northern California into darkness and the daring plan of a female security entrepreneur who must risk everything to stop them from wreaking further havoc.

April 10 to April 16, 2014

By Heidi Simmons

T

THE LUNCHBOX

First-time director Ritesh Batra brings to life a clever, light, pleasing and sweet romantic story about Ila, an ordinary, middle class Mumbai housewife trying to inject a little spice into her marriage by way of her culinary skills. To do this, she fixes a lunchbox with a special recipe for her neglectful husband, but it is mistakenly delivered to Saajan, a lonely man about to retire. This continues with an exchange or personal and revealing notes between the two until both discover a new sense of self and an unexpected friendship. But it’s a relationship that could badly damage both of their real lives. The connection between food and love is almost a movie sub-genre, and this one gets it right. Is love the thing for which we most hunger? Sample this delightful box of sweets and find out.

Book Review

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

Dwight Halvorsen first came to the PSWG with notes on scraps of paper. With the guild’s help, Halvorsen wrote a 3,500 word, rhyming story with psychedelic illustrations he did himself called, A Tale of a Different Color (CreateSpace, 46 pages). For years Halvorsen was a heroin addict, homeless in Palm Springs.

“I went from a very successful artist to pushing a shopping cart,” said Halvorsen. Now sober for 16 years, his whimsical story is about recovery as told by five animal caricatures on a trip from Palm Springs to England.

From Bagels to Buddha: How I Found My Soul and Lost My Fat (Central Recovery Press, 262 pages) by Judi Hollis, PhD. It’s her fourth book. “Thirty-eight years ago I weighed 222 pounds and was an expert in alcoholism, but I couldn’t help myself,” said the therapist and now slender Hollis. “I adapted the treatment that works for alcoholics and created the nation’s first eating disorder clinics. I went all around the country educating counselors about treating overeaters and anorexics.”

Hollis has been a member of the PSWG since the 80s. After three self-help books, Bagels to Buddha is her memoir.

C.L. Hoang lives in San Diego, but is a member of PSWG. His work of fiction, Once Upon a Mulberry Field (Willow Stream, 392 pages), is a love story set during the Vietnam War. “It’s based on real life anecdotes,” said Hoang. “I tried not to write another war or history book, so I focused on the human aspect and its impact on both the Americans and the Vietnamese.” An electronic engineer, Hoang started the project as a gift for his nieces and nephews who were born and raised here and knew very little about their heritage. Hoang’s protagonist is an American doctor.

Wade Rouse has written five published books and has been featured on the “Today Show” and “Chelsea Lately” on E! He has four humorous memoirs, but his latest book is a collection of essays about rescue dogs called, I’m Not the biggest Bitch in This Relationship: Hilarious, Heartwarming Tales About Man’s Best Friend from America’s Favorite Humorists.

(NAL Trade, 272 pages.) Fifty percent of the books net royalties benefit the Humane Society.

“Most of the stories have lessons in them, but I believe if you can get people to chuckle, it’s better than preaching at them.” Rouse does memoir workshops for the PSWG.

Roots of the Vine (Arleron Press, 248 pages)

by Arlene Morgan and Ronald Krivosha is a fictional love story written in collaboration.

The novel concerns an orphan girl who journeys to the vineyards of Italy where she discovers the tangled secrets of her past. “Although we wrote with two voices, our characters took

over and made it one voice,” said Morgan. She joined the PSWG at the beginning of the writing process for the support it provides.

A charming children’s picture book, Hans & Wolfgang (CreateSpace, 32 pages) written

by Linda Hodsdon and illustrated by Alex Mankiewicz is a story about a sauerkraut eating cat named Hans who makes friends with Wolfgang, a mouse. Hodsdon recently went to Australia where Mankiewicz lives. “It was fun to meet her face-to-face after working together for two years over the Internet,” said Hodsdon.

Reruns: Poetry and Prose by D. Marie Fitzgerald is a collection of short stories and poetry that focus on the adventures of her life that include family and lovers. As a child of the 1950s and 60s, the content reflects that time period. Fitzgerald taught creative writing at Palm Desert and Cathedral City High Schools.

“It’s really a memoir told through short fiction and poetry,” said Fitzgerald.

Actor Michael Dante shares his life and experience in his book, From Hollywood to Michael Dante Way (BearManor, 306 pages). “I lived, worked and was a part of an electrifying period in Hollywood’s history with many great and talented people who enriched my life,” said Dante.

“The room is full of stories. For people who like stories there are stories on everything,” said McFarlin. “Many are personal and true. Many are fictional. There are all genres represented here.”

Besides all the stories, there was a camaraderie, friendliness and creative spirit that permeated the gathering of authors and their work.

The Palm Springs Writers Guild meets the first Saturday of every month, October through June. Besides the Desert Writers Expo, the guild provides critique groups, writing workshops, mentoring groups, service providers, manuscript review, writing contests, speakers and more. Membership is $58 the first year and $48 thereafter.

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April 10 to April 16, 2014

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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 Bikini Bar V.I.P. Pool Party w/ Lindsey Harper Band noon, Chiki Bar V.I.P. Pool Party w/ DJ Shasta noon, Sidebar Jam Sessions w/ Esjay Jones, Tori Roze and Lindsey Harper 7pm 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 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 14 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 Sidebar Jam Sessions w/ Esjay Jones & Andy Mauser 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 15 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 RIVIERA RESORT & SPA; PS; 760-327-4080 Martin Ross Starlite Lounge 6pm, Sidebar Jam Sessions w/ Esjay Jones & Pictures From Eden 7pm

S and G

PUMPING SERVICE

(760) 340-2840

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

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Open Daily 10 am - 6 pm Sunday 12 - 5pm 44841 San Pablo (West Side of Street), Palm Desert, CA 92260

760-404-6325

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 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 16 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Dan Horn 6pm 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 T.B.A. 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 FYF Presents Little Dragons w/ The Internet 8pm 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

food

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by Lisa Morgan

It’s a Funkey Thing I

t is official. The Funkey family is the Coachella Valley’s providers of atmospheric genius and dining experience. I say this because this same hard working family who have provided the Coachella Valley with Italian freshness and Chicago style pizza for the last several years at Giuseppe’s Pizza and Pasta, who then successfully launched Bar, a very classy but comfortable place for dinner that offers entertainment with top notch DJs and live bands, now have another new, fantastic venue to boast about: The Smoke Tree Supper Club. True to their traditional formula for success, they once again bring only the freshest, best quality ingredients to your table from their kitchen and bar. This table, however, is set up a bit differently, but just as delightfully. The sophisticated yet warm style of family dining is at its best here. On the patio, the grill is the central feature as you watch food prepared by “experts”.

The bench seating inspires conversation and camaraderie between friends as well as strangers.

Any other restaurateur may struggle with the concept, but if anybody can infuse their sense of family and genuine friendship into their dining room, patio or indoor group tables, the Funkey’s and their hand selected, amicable staff can.

The menu is completely a la carte and full of refreshingly traditional concepts presented in vogue fashion. My personal favorite is anything that they bring to the table in what I like to call “treasure pots of deliciousness”. The first individual, petite, lidded pot I was served was full of roasted garlic cloves in a fine olive oil that spread like butter on the hearty, crusty fresh bread it was served with. Then, as if they knew my deepest, darkest fetishes, they brought out stuffed jalapenos wrapped in bacon. The smoked salmon created a new standard of perfection for me and the hot artichoke dip, served in yet another treasure pot was creamy, savory heaven.

The wedge salad also made an impression on me.

I haven’t even taken you through the main course: A beautiful, quality, New York strip steak flavorful and perfectly done, because you grill it yourself! That’s right...if you don’t like the way your food is grilled you have only yourself to blame. You also have other choices for your grilling protein including; salmon, sea scallop skewers, free range chicken breast, rack of baby back ribs, along with several beef selections such as ribeye,

April 10 to April 16, 2014

Preview of Smoke Tree Supper Club

NY strip, porterhouse, flat iron steak, ground steak burger, Portobello mushroom burger and even filet mignon. All are accompanied by the side dishes you choose such as the ultimate mac and cheese, baked beans, grilled vegetables, rice or parmesan scalloped potatoes (in the treasure pots brought to your table just when you return with your entree). Each offering including the adult libations represented the Funkey standard described by Donovan Funkey: “We squeeze our juices fresh every day and make our own syrups.

We want to provide the same kind of high quality food and drinks you would enjoy in the upper end places in Los Angeles without the stuffiness and high prices.”

The Funkey family: Joe and Sue along with son Donovan, daughter-in-law Molly, and daughters Kimberleigh and Jordan, are all collectively working together to bring their fresh cooking and mixology skills to downtown Palm Springs. This family has a knack for finding fantastic members for their working team who are as important to the atmosphere as the fantastic designers of the venues themselves. One such member, Reggie Cameron, displayed the same love and respect for the craft as the family would have as he presented the new dining concept to members of the press displaying their same sense of care and pride sans stuffy attitude. Working hard to please, the rest of the staff, attentive and quick to fill a need were warm and easy to chat with while never missing a beat.

CV Weekly Publisher, Tracy Dietlin had this to say of her experience: “This very communal type of dining, where you get to know your neighbor

sitting next to you, was a surprisingly fun way to enjoy our meal. And no other restaurant in the desert is doing the “grill your own protein” concept. I think it would be conducive to a girls/ guys night out or couples wanting to enjoy a fun evening out together while enjoying a great meal and a refreshingly different experience from the norm. It is definitely a great way to meet new people. The New York strip steak was a nice cut of beef. It was tender and tasty. Considering I am a filet mignon diva, I actually enjoyed it. The Ultimate Mac and Cheese was off the hook.

Potatoes were delicious and the beans were good too. I liked the way they served them in the little black miniature crocks. I especially enjoyed the hand-crafted cocktails that the Funkey’s are famous for like the Jalisco Flower which consists of tequila, St. Germaine, champagne and pink

grapefruit juice. Basically, the Funkey family has done it again, creating an innovative way to dine that no one else in the desert is doing.”

Palm Springs diners, the Bar (pun is intended) has been raised once again. Enjoy this venue at your earliest opportunity! The Smoke Tree Supper Club is located in the Smoke Tree Shopping Center, just inside the breezeway next to Smokin’ Burgers.

Call (760) 778-6521 or visit them on the web at www.stsupperclub.com.

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April 10 to April 16, 2014

business profile

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by Patte purcell

The Best Democracy Money Can Buy

Don Vincent- A Family Affair A s you walk inside Don Vincent Store for Men, located on world famous El Paseo in Palm Desert, you quickly become aware that this is not the run-of-the-mill clothing store. The displays are smart, with colorful shirts from designers such as Robert Graham and jeans crafted in California by Agave Denim.

(Agave Denim even uses cotton grown in the deserts of California.) Don Vincent is also the only store in the desert where you can buy Bertigo shirts which are trim and very hip. Somewhere between Desert Chic and California Cool, Don Vincent Store for Men has found a niche and a following with loyal customers from all over the United

States and Canada, and some from as far away as England.

The driving force behind this unique fashion oasis in the desert is the years of experience and the unique fashion sense of the Puccio family. Brothers Don and Vincent Puccio, who founded Don Vincent Store for Men in 1971, opened their first desert store in Palm Springs twenty years ago. They can still be found giving their expert advice in their flagship store on El Paseo. Today they are joined by Vincent Puccio, Jr. who is happy to give a tour of the store and all its current collections: “I’m really thrilled to introduce Circle of Gentlemen as a new designer line for our store. I think it is very

it’s your nickel

April Showers Bring May Flowers

T

he month of April is seeing an economic boom here in the valley not seen in years. The Dinah Shore weekend was a smashing success, and resulted in hotels and restaurants booked beyond capacity. In the coming weekends we have the White party which is also expected to fill local coffers to the brim.

And not one, but two Coachella Festival weekends are selling out and look to be the busiest ever along with Stagecoach.

Everyone knows that “the economy” runs in cycles. We are still recovering from the deepest recession our country has ever known, but some seasonal and other structural elements are stepping in to show us that the local economy, and that of the country at large, is moving in an upward swing. Once April comes and goes here locally, you will see all the talk about town of the numerous developments going in Palm Springs and beyond which are such welcome news.

The new $120 million dollar hotel mall complex and the $80 million dollar development across from it at Alejo are just entering the building phase and will bring a new higher economic cycle of growth for years. In the next two or three years we will be seeing as much growth as we

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saw movements in the opposite direction for the preceding five or so years since the crash in 2007/8. We can count on this for that same time period into the future or so the best guess would seem to indicate. That does not mean forever though.

Warnings go out to those whose avarice knows no limits. Buying up too many houses or opening up too many businesses without proper management, or price gouging is never a formula for success. Those are formulas for failure. People often see only the short term, and we need to look at our investments as long term strategies that have chief among their goals the stability that does indeed account for those who are more successful among us in the long run. A real estate “bubble” has already been

Haddon Libby:It’s all local

contemporary- maybe one of next year’s big hits in men’s fashion, and it will only be available here at Don Vincent and maybe in Beverly Hills.”

As you take the tour, circling the store, migrating from denim and casual shirts all the way into dress clothing, ultimately you end up in the made-to-measure room. Vincent explains, “This is a very fun experience for most people- participating in designing their own suits and sport coats. That way you can get your new suit just the way you want it. And you’ll get a superior fit too because it’s made according to your measurements.” He flips through folders showing various fabrics from which he can make your new suits or jackets.

Then he opens up a book which he says are his “top of the line” fabrics- Loro Piana super 170s. Vincent, when asked why he enjoys focusing on men’s suits smiles and

responds, “…because some men still want to look great, and that’s why they’re my clients.”

Don Vincent Store for Men is located at 73-740 El Paseo in Palm Desert, CA. For more information or to make an appointment call 760-773-2313. www.donvincent.net

often, Members’ first thought is not what is right or wrong or what they believe, but how will it affect fundraising. Who, after all, can seriously contend that a $100,000 donation does not alter the way one thinks about—and quite possibly votes on—an issue? When you don’t pay the piper that finances your campaigns, you will never get any more money from that piper. Since money is the mother’s milk of politics, you never want to be in that situation.

The contribution limit challenge was brought before the Supreme Court by Shaun McCutcheon, the President of the Alabama GOP Council. McCutcheon earns his money by spearheading difficult projects for the coal mining industry with a leading role in the development of “liquified clean coal” as an alternative to diesel fuel. So you

The County eventually declared bankruptcy with county commissioners found guilty of corruption, bribery and extortion. Judges during those trials found that Jefferson County had become a kleptocracy - a place where elected office is held to increase that person’s power and wealth.

With this Supreme Court ruling, the most valuable contributors to federal elections can increase what they can give from $123,000 to $3.6 million each per election cycle.

The dissenting Supreme Court justices expressed their concern over the decision by writing, “a cynical public can lose interest in political participation altogether.”

Dale Gribow On The Law

By john Paul Valdez predicted.

Some newspaper accounts have rooms averaging 650 dollars a night for Coachella, and yet, I am not seeing that as the value of an average stay. If we open nothing but tourist traps, we will hardly enhance the experience of the visitor in a tourist own, but rather harm the very thing that brings them here. Care must be taken to always remain true to business goals that would hold true anywhere at any time. Anyone who thinks they are “getting away with” anything in the business community is merely harming the valley’s wonderful reputation. I hope we can remember what makes us all special as residents in this still hidden diamond in the valley.

I have seen a few restaurants get sloppy with food or service in an effort to pack them in and turn tables. A true restaurateur is interested in providing a dining experience

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hile CNN provided wall-to-wall coverage on an aircraft that went missing a month ago and Fox and MSNBC presented their partisan news coverage, an important ruling came down from the Supreme Court that few in the media spent any time on.

The Supreme Court ruled that campaign contribution limits on the amount that a wealthy individual can give in elections limits the First Amendment right to free speech of that individual. This occurred on the heels of the Court’s 2010 ruling that corporations are people too who can donate unlimited funds when it comes to elections. Current Republican leadership hailed the ruling while Democratic leadership and some highly respected Republicans expressed concerns over the ruling.

Fred Thompson, former Senator and Presidential candidate said, “We have gone from basically a small donor system where the average person believed they had a stake, believed they had a voice, to one of extremely large amounts of money, where you are not a player unless you are in the $100,000 or $200,000 range.”

Highly respected Republican Senator Alan Simpson also voiced concern over the influence of large donors saying, “Too

know, liquified clean coal is twice as dirty as diesel and uses massive amounts of water in its production.

McCutcheon’s argument was that he should be allowed to give the maximum amount possible to every candidate with no limits on total contributions. The conservative majority in a 5-4 ruling agreed with him. While the law as it had previously existed was constructed to avoid ‘even the appearance’ of a corrupted electoral process, the majority felt that corruption should be defined as arrangements such as a payment for your vote on legislation.

The minority argued unsuccessfully that money clearly buys access to politicians and frequently their support on issues of importance to the contributor whether that concern is in the best interest of the entirety of a politician’s constituents. The minority made their case based on things that have occurred over the last decade where small groups of like-minded people have funneled inordinate amounts into specific elections in attempts to corrupt the electoral process.

Given that McCutcheon is part of the political machine of Jefferson County, Alabama, the concern that corruption might occur from large donations can be proven in his very own backyard. You see, a sewer project in Jefferson County cost over $3 billion and was one of the most expensive municipal projects in history.

April 10 to April 16, 2014

DOES THE USA HIDE FINANCIAL BENEFITS FROM VETS

that represents value added, not value taken away. If you are charging $40-$60 dollars for dinner, are you sure that dinner stacks up to a $40-$60 dollar dinner in another city? That’s what your clients will be thinking. The long term success depends on our relationships with each client at each turn, even if we don’t ever see that particular person again.

The world is changing at a rapid rate with new smart phone applications taking our experiences global within seconds of their occurrence. Make sure it’s a good experience.

Everyone wants to know. Write to: JohnPaulValdez@gmail.com

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any Vets and their spouses are entitled to financial benefits that the USA does not promote.

They are the best kept secrets in our country.

The benefit is called Aid and Attendance (A&A) and offsets the cost of care and is not for “extra” help around the house.

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has this little known tax free pension available to help qualified veterans and their unmarried surviving spouses pay for home health care, assistance living or nursing home care. Last year an estimated 1.9 million veterans qualified but did not know about it and or did not know how to file a well-documented claim. Only 100,000 filed for this pension that can be a life line allowing Vets to age with dignity and peace of mind. It affords them the care they need and deserve and the power to select the services as well as the provider that meets those needs.

The criteria is based on age, assets, marital status, income, liquid assets and cost of care. You can have $25,000-40,000 in liquid assets and $80,000 in total assets. If your home has substantial value by putting it in IRREVOCABLE TRUST (with a son or daughter as trustee) you can shelter it since

you no longer own it. Only the trustee can draw on it. Thus you get an EIN (employer identification number) which takes the place of Soc Security.

Maximum Benefit Amounts in 2012: Monthly Annually Two Veterans/ Two Veterans/ Spouses Spouses $2,631 $31,572 Married Veteran Married Veteran $2,019 $24,228 Single Veteran Single Veteran $1,703 $20,436 Surviving Spouse Surviving Spouse $1,094 $13,140 Eligibility Requirements: -65 years/ unemployable.

-Honorable/General discharge -90 days of active duty with at least one day during an official period of conflict.

-Requires care -Meet income/asset criteria The UN-REMARRIED surviving spouse has NO age requirement. (a surviving spouse must have been married to the Vet for at least 1 year, never divorced and never been remarried.)

Miscellaneous Info: Service in Merchant Marines during WW2 counts as Navy.

Women in WW2 including Nurses count as active duty.

Reserves and National Guard are not qualified unless they served 90 days active Duty with 1 day during a period of conflict.

The 90 day rules does not apply to those who served less than 990 days but were awarded a purple hearts, suffered a service connected disability, or were killed in the line of duty.

Is A&A a secret because the financial condition of our country is shaky? Most lawyers do not know about Aid and Attendance and they cannot charge a

VET for assisting them with this benefit? I honestly do not think it is because lawyers cannot charge for assisting with this benefit but rather that they, like the majority of the population, do not know this benefit exists and is thus the best kept secret in the USA. Dale Gribow has been “Rated” TOP LAWYER by Palm Springs Life Magazine from 2011-2015 and has a Superb AVVO Legal Rating by his fellow attorneys. He has been Man of the Year 7 times including the City of Palm Desert and the City of Hope and Dale Gribow Day has been declared 4 times. He is the only attorney appointed in December 2013 to the Coachella Valley Association of Government’s Public Safety Ad Hoc Blue Ribbon Committee. Gribow has been a legal commentator, analyst, expert, newspaper columnist and radio talk show host. He currently writes for the CV Weekly and the Desert Sun. In 2014 Gribow was again the only attorney selected to the Clinton Foundation’s Clinton Health Matters Committee addressing Drunk Driving matters. He is also one of the founders of Shutdown Drunk Driving, formed upon the death of his client who was killed by a drunk driver while jogging in October 2013.

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April 10 to April 16, 2014

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

safety tips

by Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

No ‘Charge’ for this Safety Tip!

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hose little nine-volt batteries that you changed last month from your smoke detector or just keep around in drawers could post a serious fire hazard if not stored correctly says Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna. The batteries could start a fire if surrounded by the wrong items. Several house fires have been reported caused by the batteries.

Fires have been attributed to 9-volt batteries where both the positive and negative leads have made contact with aluminum foil, a metal pen, or some type of metallic object. All you need is for a metal object like steel wool a paper clip, pen short out across the top of a 9 Volt battery and ignite paper or other easily ignited materials

and you’ll have a potential disaster in your home. It doesn’t take much to heat a metallic object or cause a spark in order to start a fire says Chief DiGiovanna.”

Make sure your nine-volts are separated if they are out of their packaging. Another tip is to cover the tops of your nine-volts with electrical tape to make sure that the tops of them never touch.

Contact your local fire department for additional information and visit: w w w. nf p a . o rg / . . . / S afet y % 2 0 t i p % 2 0 sheets/9voltBatterySafety.pdf Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

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by Jennifer Tan aka mrs. fett

Titan“fail”

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ShareKitchen A SImple Healthy eating glossary ou probably see terms like ‘farmto-table’, food miles, low carbon diet and sustainable farming in the news and at many restaurants. Let’s take a moment and understand what these terms mean.

When you hear of a farm-totable or farm-to-fork meal or event, what that typically refers to is the production and use of local food by local consumers.

Often but not always, these meals consist of organic or sustainably grown foods.

Farm-to-table can also refer to a political movement where people are protesting a food system that is increasingly controlled by centralized food companies that often use pesticides and genetically modified foods in order to feed more people at the lowest cost possible. Alice Waters, owner of

Gaemer Girl

Chez Panisse in Berkeley is a founder of this movement.

Food miles refers to the distance that food is transported in reaching your plate.

The term originated twenty years ago

by Professor Tim Lang of the United Kingdom.

He wrote of the potential risks associated with foods produced far away. Not only does the transport create carbon monoxide emissions but there is often less supervision over the fertilizers and cleanliness of those products grown far away.

A low carbon diet refers to the energy used to create the food that you eat. For example, at least 20% of all carbon emissions in the United States relate to the production of food. To reduce the carbon created in making your food, proponents recommend eating less meat or dairy as each require substantial energy to create. Additionally, eat locally sourced foods in smaller portions while recycling and composting.

Finally, sustainable farming can be best understood by recognizing that crops need to be rotated in order to avoid over farming land. Nitrogen needs to be reintroduced to the soil naturally in order to keep the soil rich and fertile.

hroughout the Alpha, and Beta testing of TitanFall, I wrote about a poetic love story filled with new weapons, Ogres, and an entirely new way to enjoy a first person shooter title. Unfortunately, the honeymoon phase is now over, and the bickering has commenced.

Every title that I have ever purchased has always had a campaign. It’s like the veggies to my pot roast. Yeah, I can do without, but it’s never going to be the same. So when I was informed that TitanFall had no campaign, I was almost enraged. How can you release a brand new game, at full price nonetheless, without a campaign? There is no story to pull you into WHY these Titans are here, who were they developed to fight, and more importantly, DID WE WIN!?

If you are going to charge me full price for a multiplayer only experience title, then you better have your mechs in a row, so to speak. One of the greatest perks to having campaign on FPS titles, was the ability to rage quit MP matches, and jump into campaign for a bit. Just because I don’t want to play MP, doesn’t mean I don’t want to enjoy the game. Something Respawn failed to consider when making the decision to remove a large chunk of the gaming

Health&Fitness

April 10 to April 16, 2014

By Denise Ortuno Neil

California CareForce Helps Valley Residents

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demographic from their development process. It almost seems like we are back at E3, listening to Microsoft explain their “No internet? No Xbox One” policy. That lasted long….

The multiplayer experience is still amazing. One in which other developers should strive to achieve. Effortless integration between mech and pilot, immersive maps navigated with ease, and a balanced weapon system.

“Titanfall’s network performance is vital to its reception, since it’s a multiplayer only title. Respawn Entertainment is grateful to Microsoft for taking on that burden” -VG24/7. Which means, the first ever, multiplayer only title, was placed on Microsoft’s Azure Cloud. An idea that was launched with great hopes, only ended in crashed servers, lost games, split frames, and the inability to play at all.

This is the first title I don’t have the ability to base my score on both campaign and MP experiences. So with that, I can only give the game a heart breaking 6.

Between crashing, lost scores, and ripped frame rates, Azure might not be the route we should be taking for our next gen MP cloud needs...

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

ith the high cost of health care, most of us are either underinsured, or not insured at all even with the new government imposed healthcare act. But thanks to the people at California CareForce, and the generosity of Goldenvoice, help has come to the Coachella Valley giving residents the opportunity to receive a variety of healthcare services for free.

The words “free” and “healthcare” hardly go together. But the non-profit 501c3 organization California CareForce has been hard at work trying to change that offering free clinics throughout California since 2011.

The organization was formerly part of RAM (Remote Area Medical) based out of Tennessee and was limited to the amount of clinics that they could provide as the equipment would have to be brought out to California as explained by the organizations President, Pamela Congdon. But as of last year, the group was able to purchase their own equipment through generous donations enabling them to move forward on their own and produce more clinics, “Now we can do even more because we have our own equipment,” said Congdon.

The organization puts together free clinics offering services that include limited medical, dental and vision. They are completely run by volunteers which are the core of California

CareForce. The volunteers come to the event at their own expense, some even traveling from across the country, “Everyone who’s here (volunteers) really wants to be here,” said Congdon. The clinic has over 500 volunteers a day, half of which are medical professionals.

The California CareForce clinic in Indio has been sponsored by Goldenvoice for the past two years. The music festival giant makes sure that the clinic has supplies, including eyeglass frames and feeding the many volunteers throughout the duration of the event, “They want to give back to the community that has helped make them so successful, Goldenvoice are an incredible group of people,” said Congdon.

The clinic was held at the Riverside County Fairgrounds in Indio April 3rd through the 6th.

Patients desiring to be seen could get in line as early as 3:30am to secure treatment, with services starting at 6am. The patients could have Medical and then choose between Dental and Vision, because the clinic gets inundated with the need for those services and could not offer both at the same time, “Most people who are insured don’t have Dental or Vision coverage, so about 80% of people who come to the clinic come for those services,” said Congdon. Patients were able to come back the following day to receive the other service that

s.e.l.m.a.grows

The main purpose of the S.E.L.M.A. organization is to support the creation of careers that preserve cultural integrity by providing a localized showcase system of music and arts education opportunities.

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e are delighted to announce the presidential nomination of Sarahyah Yisrael (CFO of Futurenomic Resources) by the second chapter of Support and Education for Local Music and Arts “SelmaGrows COD” club at College of the Desert. Sarahyah has also been elected as the Outreach Program Director of the quickly growing club.

With over 7 years serving with the charitable music and arts community she has developed a deep appreciation for Coachella Valley students and their families. She consistently works to protect the sustainability of our grassroots music productions, the successes of locally owned businesses, and the preservation of the arts.

Sarahyah’s work at Futurenomic Resources supports the sponsorship and development of the feature group, “Young Fly Billionaires”, produced by Adon Icon, The “Young Fly Billionaires” is a hip hop group of siblings, Young Prince age 11, Lady A age 9, Young Princess age 8 and G-Starr age 7. The youthful and talented group embodies style that is reminiscent of Kris Kross and Raven Symone.

The inspirational story of their success is not one without adversity. Prevailing through it all, the group manages to endure and progress as a unit. The “Young Fly Billionaires” are being featured in the upcoming DHS Got Talent. Their work has been described as “dynamite” for

they didn’t get the first day.

The impressive clinic took up two buildings at the fairgrounds, one of which completely dedicated to Vision. Patients were able to get new eyeglasses after being examined, with the lenses cut on the premises. The variety of new eyeglass frames included name brands such as Ralph Lauren and Tommy Bahama all donated by different organizations. Volunteers helped patients choose eyeglass frames. Patients like Lana Craig from Palm Springs who’s health insurance policy does not offer Vision, was happy to get new glasses, “I think this event is really good, because a lot of people who are insured don’t have Dental or Vision coverage,” said Craig. “It’s so great to see somebody come out, especially little kids, that are so proud of

sports

PALM SPRINGS POWER BASEBALL HOLDING NATIONAL ANTHEM TRYOUTS

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such young artists. Adding to their interactive schedule, the Young Fly Billionaires will also be participating in a Relay for Life concert tour.

At their level of experience, having supporters is crucial to the propulsion of their careers. With the assistance of Sarahyah and SelmaGrows COD, the group is seeking support from our community. Friends, families and fans are what will increase their opportunity and hopefully create a positive impact on the family experience. For more information and how to donate, check out their Kick starter page on the Futurenomic Resources website www.

Futurenomic.org.

We can make a difference by working together. Thank you for your support.

their new glasses,” said Congdon.

To make the event even more special, they provided a Hug Station, to ease the angst of patients and give volunteers support.

The clinic does not get any of their funding from federal, state or local tax dollars. It is in existence through the charitable donations of the public. Although not encouraged to do so, patients donate from time to time, as a grateful gesture for the services that they have been given, which sometimes add to be worth thousands of dollars.

This year’s California CareForce clinic in Indio gave medical service treatment worth nearly $1million to almost 2,000 people, thanks to Goldenvoice and all other associated organizations that assisted in making it happen.

It is absolutely amazing what the people at California CareForce provided to the Coachella Valley, and will continue to provide in the future to us and other communities throughout California. With so many of us hanging in the balance with medical care, their services are needed now more than ever.

For more information, and to register to volunteer visit www.CaliforniaCareForce.org .

he Palm Springs Power baseball club is holding open tryouts at Palm Springs Stadium on Saturday May 10th at 11:00 AM. The Palm Springs Power are back and looking to defend their SCCBL Championship in 2014! The Power is also looking for championship-caliber singers to sing our national anthem at the ballpark this summer!

Do you have singing experience? Have you been part of a choir? Do you simply think you have the pipes to sing in front of hundreds of people? Well come to our national anthem tryout on Saturday May 10th at 11:00 AM at the stadium (1901 E. Baristo Rd., Palm Springs, CA).

We are holding open tryouts to sing the national anthem at the ballpark during our 2014 season. Those who come and perform will be considered for the remaining opening slots during the year.

You MUST register prior to May 5th to be qualified to participate. You can register by calling the Power offices at (760)778-4487 and ask for Josh. jfathollahi@palmspringspowerbaseball.com

We look forward to seeing you at the tryouts, and good luck!

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April 10 to April 16, 2014

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

Don’t Be

CLUELESS IN THE COACHELLA VALLEY

by Diane Marlin-Dirkx

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Thursday, April 10, 5 – 7pm. Different Shades of Lipstick…Women Influencing Culture. This is 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! Pardon our sniff, but 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 a Q & A, there will be a delicious wine and cheese reception. Best news: The RM city council will be awarding a $1000 scholarship to a young college-bound 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

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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 760-773-5788, or 760-779-1332. Performance only tickets are available at the box office or call 760-340ARTS, or online www.McCallumTheatre. com., or at the box office. Ticket sales go to fund this non-profit 501 © (3) #95-3871126.

The McCallum Theatre , 73000 Fred Waring Dr., Palm Desert.

Saturday, April 12, 8pm. Tenors are the Viagra of any opera –and have been for centuries. They are the lovers who as the curtain falls at the end of the night are clutching the heroine—even as they step back from the mirror. As it should be, the last scheduled performance of the season at the Annenberg Theater is the renowned Broadway Tenors featuring the Great White Way’s best leading men, a trio of savvy and sophisticated stud muffins that fill the hall to the rafters with a dazzling repertoire from West Side Story to South Pacific to Phantom of the Opera, to Les Miz and Jersey Boys, including show-stopping medleys written just for them. The swoon-worthy gentlemen are tenors and Broadway stars Stephen Bogardus, John Cudia and David Burnham. Ticket prices $60-$75.Annenberg at the Palm Springs Art Museum, 101 Museum Dr., Palm Springs.

FREE WILL ASTROLOGY Week of April 10

Bendistillary. Tickets per person, $95. Palm Springs Animal Shelter, 4575 Mesquite Ave., Palm Springs. For more info, call 760-4165718.

EVENT CALENDAR hat does music do for you? In the happy hedonism of today’s hectic lifestyle, everything has to be meaningful to your life, a self-indulgent fix, or a narcissistic pleasure. Is it a quiet background? Does it help you study, or work, soothing your day under pressure? Or is it often blasting through earphones into the deep recesses of your brain, as endless stimulation? What music do you listen to? Rock, and its many variations?

Country? Classical in its centuries of variations? American Songbook “standards?” Broadway show-stoppers? Opera? Cowboy? All-American Jazz? Barber shop Quartets? String Quartets?

Need we go on? I think not. Suffice it to say, if you can’t find those choices on the list and more in our desert in season and beyond, you’re not looking hard enough. And tomorrow we give you one word: COACHELLA: The Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival at the Empire Polo Club in Indio strikes up the fav-rav bands of note now. It’s a Music-o-Rama so huge they provide two weekends for it. Have fun! Other musical and non-musical options? Read on.

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

Saturday, April 12, 6pm. Sling your board over your shoulder! Let’s go hot rodding to Surf City with Jan and Dean!

We’re gonna have some fun now, at the ACT for MS Spring Gala when the rock ‘n Roll event headlines Dean Torrance (of Jan and Dean) with his Surf City Allstars who re-produce the 60s vibes for the Beach Party theme wearing casual attire (guests following suit) and honoring first beach-party babe Annette Funicello, who passed away in 2003 from complications of multiple sclerosis. Get your groove on for hosted cocktails and appetizers, dinner, program with live auction and dancing your socks off! ACT for Multiple Sclerosis is a non-profit charity based in Palm Desert and is the premier provider of services and resources at no cost for low-income clients who have been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis living in the Coachella Valley.

Honorary Chairs are Rhonda & Ray Smith; Event Chairs are Founding President Gloria Greer and Current President Suz Hunt.

Single ticket is $300, and Sponsorships are available, ranging from $3,000 to $10,000.

All proceeds benefit ACT for MS, a Palm Desert-based charity that provides vital services free for Coachella Valley residents diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. For more information, 760-773-9806, www.

ACTforMS.org. Event is at the Renaissance Esmeralda in Indian Wells.

Saturday, April 12, 6pm – 8:30pm.

You’re invited to the Faux Fur-Ball rolling out on the velvety lawn of the Palm Springs Animal Shelter. The liet motif, “The fur may be faux…but the fun will be real” is compounded by the cause without pause is great! Special guests are show-dragsters from Les Dames du Soleil, in the person of Bella da Ball, and others, plus TV personality the fan-tasticBianca Rae. The event’s special drinks du nuit, namely Dot-Tinis, MaudeTinis, Bella-Tinis and classic Martinis, will be hosted by Crater Lake Vodka and

Wednesday, April 23, 6pm. Michael Childers’ “ONE NIGHT ONLY” featuring “Tradition, The Jewish Legacy of Broadway,” hosted by TV Star Fran Drescher, will benefit the Jewish Family Service of the Desert. This One Night Only is one show you don’t want to miss for its stars of every entertainment medium known to those who love Broadway musicals, TV specials, sit-coms and, laughter from the Borscht Belt to New York’s Broadway, from appreciate giggles to raucous belly-laughs. Get ready to be entertained by the best in the business, many who grew up reciting the mantra: “A little song, a little dance, a little seltzer down your pants.” General Admission tickets, $75, $95, & $195. Available at the McCallum Theatre box office, at 760-340-ARTS, or go to www.mccallumtheatre.com. VIP Theatre & Dinner packages, $450 each, call JFS, 760325-4088. The McCallum Theatre , 73000 Fred Waring Dr., Palm Desert.

“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!

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Freedom is the most important kind of joy you can seek right now. It’s also the most important subject to study and think about, as well as the most important skill to hone.

I advise you to make sure that freedom is flowing through your brain and welling up in your heart and spiraling through your loins. Write synonyms for “freedom” on your arm with a felt-tip pen: liberation, emancipation, independence, leeway, spaciousness, carte blanche, self-determination, dispensation. Here’s one more tip: Connect yourself with people who love and cultivate the same type of freedom you do.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): It’s Love Your Messes Week, Taurus. In accordance with the astrological omens, you are authorized to love the hell out of the messes in your life -- from the small, awkward knots of confusion to the big, beautiful heaps of fertile chaos. This is not a time to feel embarrassed or apologize for your messes; not a time to shy away from them or ignore them. On the contrary, you should explore them, celebrate them, and even take advantage of them. Whatever else they are, your messes are untapped sources of energy. Learn to love them for the mysterious lessons they keep teaching you. Love them for the courage and willpower they compel you to summon. Love them for the novelty they bring your way and the interesting stories they add to your personal legend.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): “A snowball’s chance in hell” is an American idiom that’s equivalent to saying “it probably won’t happen.” After all, a snowball would instantly melt if exposed to the scorching fires that rage in the underworld. But what if there’s an exception to this axiom? Let’s call on another American idiom: “when hell freezes over.” It’s another way to say “it probably won’t happen.” But the truth is that now and then a cold front does indeed sweep through the infernal region, icing its flames. When that happens, a snowball’s prospects of surviving there improve dramatically. And that’s exactly what I predict will happen for you in the coming week.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): In 2007, J. K. Rowling finished writing the seventh volume of her seven Harry Potter books, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. The day it was published it sold 11 million copies. But Rowling had actually written the final chapter of this last book way back in 1990, when she first conceived the story she was to spend the next 17 years working on. She knew the climax right from the beginning. I foresee a similar theme unfolding for you in the coming weeks, Cancerian.

As you plot a project you will be developing for a long time to come, you will have a vision of what it will be when it becomes fully mature.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): When you see your shadow, it’s usually right next to you. It’s there on the ground or floor, a fuzzy black shape that follows you around closely. But today I saw my shadow waving back at me from afar. I was standing on top of a hill, and the sun’s rays created a dusky version of me in the meadow way down below. I think this is a useful metaphor for an opportunity that’s available to you. In the coming days, you will be able to view the shadowy, undeveloped parts of your personality as if from a distance. That means you will have more objectivity about them, and thus greater compassion. You can get a calm, clear sense of how they might be mucking with your happiness and how you could transform them.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): “You cannot use butterfly language to communicate with caterpillars,” said psychologist Timothy Leary.

That’s good advice for you to keep in mind in the near future. You might want to find a way to carry on constructive dialogs with people who have a hard time understanding you. It’s not necessarily that they are stupid or resistant to your charms.

The problem is that they haven’t experienced some of the critical transformations you have. They can’t be expected to converse with you in your butterfly language. Are you willing and able to speak caterpillar?

© Copyright 2012 Rob Brezsny

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Are you thinking of linking your fortunes to a new ally? Or deepening your collaboration with a familiar ally? Have you fantasized about bonding intensely with a source that may be able to give you more of what you want and bring out more of the best in you? These prospects are worth contemplating, Libra. But I suggest you let your connection ripen a bit more before finalizing the shift. I’m not necessarily saying there’s a potential problem. I simply suspect that you need further exploration and additional information before you can make the smartest move possible.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Saturn has been in the sign of Scorpio since October 2012 and will be there until the end of 2014. (It will make another visit from June to September 2015.) What does that mean? I have a view of Saturn that’s different from many astrologers. They regard it as the planet of limitation, struggle, and difficulty. Here’s what I think: While Saturn may push you to be extra tough and work super hard, it also inspires you to cut away extraneous desires and home in on your deepest purpose. It motivates you to build strong structures that free you to express yourself with maximum efficiency and grace.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): When I took an intermediate painting class in college, our first assignment was to imitate an old master. My choice was the Flemish painter Pieter Breugel the Elder (1525-1569). I worked on reproducing his painting The Fight Between Carnival and Lent as precisely as I could. It was tedious and liberating. I invoked Breugel’s spirit and prayed for his guidance. I sank my psyche deeply into his. By the end of the fourweek process I’d learned a lot about painting.

Given the current astrological omens, Sagittarius, I suggest you try something similar. Pick someone who excels at a way of working or a state of being that you would like to master yourself, and copy that person for a while. For best results, have fun with it. Play!

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Capricorn author J. R. R. Tolkien spent 14 years working on The Lord of the Rings. In using a typewriter to produce over 1,200 pages, he relied solely on his two index fingers. He never learned the ten-finger typing method. I suppose it didn’t matter in the end. Presumably, his impediment didn’t affect the quality of his work, but only made it harder to accomplish and required him to spend a lot more time. Is there a fixable limitation on your own ability to achieve your dream, Capricorn? Is there some handicap you could, with effort, overcome? If so, now would be an excellent time to begin.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): “The truth’s superb surprise,” wrote poet Emily Dickinson, may be “too bright for our infirm delight.” Sometimes we’ve got to be careful about articulating what’s really going on. “The truth must dazzle gradually,” she said. If it hits us too fast and hard, it may be difficult to digest. So did Emily suggest that we should lie and deceive? No. “Tell all the truth,” she declared, “but tell it slant.” This is excellent advice for you in the coming days, Aquarius.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Here’s my report on your progress. You are not struggling to embody a delusional state of perfection as it is imagined by other people. Rather, you are becoming an ever-more soulful version of your idiosyncratic self, evolving slowly but surely. You are not dazedly trudging along a narrow track laid down by thousands of sheep. Instead, you are lively and creative as you bushwhack a path for yourself through the wilderness. To celebrate this ongoing success, Pisces, I suggest you get yourself a new power object that symbolizes your inventive devotion.

Homework: Write a short essay on “How I Created Something Out of Nothing.” Go to FreeWillAstrology.com and click on “Email Rob.” Rob Brezsny Free Will Astrology freewillastrology@freewillastrology.com

April 10 to April 16, 2014

Mind, body & Spirit

by Bronwyn Ison

PAST, PRESENT, FUTURE - WHERE ARE YOU LIVING?

W

hy do most of us dwell in the past and/or anticipate the future? Are you cognizant you may have spent many of your waking hours contemplating the future? Perhaps, you have revisited your past due to nostalgic memories. Or, possibly we reflect on our past because we find comfort or we are determined not to repeat mistakes. The endless chatter within our own minds precludes us from something very important, living in the present. Calming our thoughts and connecting within are minute steps towards the now.

Naturally reflecting on our past can be exhilarating or debilitating. While referencing our past, one should have learned not to duplicate poor decision-making. We should glean from our past negative experiences and learn from them. Unfortunately there is no roadmap and we must drive ahead. Leave the baggage behind and know that present moments can lead you to a beautiful future.

Indeed our future is important. By nature we plan and organize. This aids us to remain motivated and connected to those around us. By all means I am not suggesting we live one hundred percent in the now. Many may feel living in the present renders us unorganized, intimidated, or irresponsible.

Shift your thoughts and ask yourself, how can I accomplish this basic task and feel at ease simultaneously? Implementing a daily prayer or mantra in your life may facilitate the present. This could be a positive daily ritual.

Take a moment to reflect on your fondest memories? Likely, you were in the present.

You did not allow for roadblocks. Wasn’t that a feeling of liberation? As I mention to my students in yoga, be mindful. Sometimes it is as simple as taking a few breathes to be centered and present. Generally when we visit our past, we are reflecting on the, should and could haves. Avoid negative thoughts, sadness, or anxiety. I concur, easier said than done. I am not suggesting disregarding your emotions. Remember there is a time and place for everything. Mindfulness allows us to check-in and pay attention. Living in the present may take skillful diligence. With mindfulness you can deepen your wisdom, regain relaxation, and over all pay attention to your surroundings.

If you worry about what might be, and wonder what might have been, you will ignore what is. - Author Unknown Bronwyn Ison, Owner of Evolve Yoga. For more information: www.e-volveyoga.com Or (760)564-YOGA (9642)

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April 10 to April 16, 2014

Life & career Coach

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

by Sunny Simon

Think Positive and Swing for the Fences

Ask The Doctor

Dear Dr. Kadile, I work in the fitness industry as a personal trainer. I frequently work at several different gyms with different clients in one day. Is using hand sanitizer between gyms and clients as good as washing my hands? -Lyn, La Quinta

ell, it’s official. My favorite season is upon us. No, not Spring, I’m talking major league baseball. All my life I’ve had a love affair with the game. Growing up in a large city suburb, I could walk down the street and hear the score of an evening game drifting from house to house. All season long neighbors relaxed on their front porches listening to radio announcers giving a play-by-play account of each inning’s activity. One of the highlights of my youth was collecting baseball trading cards packaged with the bonus slice of bubble gum, but nothing beat witnessing the live action in the stadium. Whenever possible I cashed in my allowance and purchased a seat in the bleachers.

It should probably come as no surprise that my first date with my husband took place at a baseball game. That fateful night when the Detroit Tigers battled the Oakland A’s is one of my favorite memories. As the competition extended into extra innings I consumed one ice-cold beer, two hot dogs, a bag of peanuts and coincidently fell completely in love with my date.

Baseball always brings out the optimist in me. Think about a tie game narrowed down to the bottom of the ninth with the bases loaded. The final pitch can end in a win, a loss, or a second chance for either team to

make a comeback. It’s like that in life. There are times when we feel the odds are stacked against us and we know we could pull it off if we could just catch a break. It’s that second chance I find so alluring. Each new day is another opportunity to come from behind and knock one out of the ballpark.

Ever feel like you’re the bat boy rather than the staring slugger? You don’t have to remain in that position. Shift your focus.

Adopt an optimistic philosophy and devise a plan that will get you batting 400. Many baseball greats have come from behind.

Baseball Hall of Famer Al Kaline, dubbed “Mr. Tiger” had difficulty getting through high school, Mickey Mantle once battled osteomyelitis a potential crippling disease and we all know how Jackie Robinson persevered a flagrant discriminatory atmosphere in order to play in the big leagues.

So, the next time your are teetering on the edge, struggling to find the sweet spot to propel you into a grand slam victory, remember the words of Yogi Berra who got it right when he said, “It ain’t over, ‘till it’s over.”

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

Lyn, gyms and fitness equipment are notoriously full of nasty germs, since not everybody uses a towel or wipes down the equipment after using it.

Hand sanitizers are generally made up of alcohol, glycerin, water and maybe some fragrance added. The alcohol is the main germ fighter. A good hand sanitizer should have an alcohol concentration of at least 60 percent. Hand sanitizer is beneficial if hand washing is unavailable, but it is not as good.

Using a hand sanitizer is good in addition to hand washing. Really, the best way to clean your hands is with soap and water. Washing gets rid of most germs and breaks up oils and removes dirt, which can hide bacteria and germs. Hand sanitizer simply works on the surface of the skin, whereas hand washing will get the water and soap into the small cracks and crevices of the skin. You’ve got the right idea in cleansing your hands between clients, but hand washing is better than hand sanitizer.

Dear Dr. Kadile, is antibacterial soap better than regular soap? -Glen, Palm Desert Glen, research has shown that plain soaps are just as effective as antibacterial soaps in reducing bacteria related illnesses.

As I’ve said in previous issues of CV Weekly, most upper respiratory infections are

caused by viruses, thus antibacterial soap wouldn’t help in preventing colds and flu.

Proper and thorough hand washing is the key, so make sure you wash your hands for at least 20-30 seconds.

April 10 to April 16, 2014

Receive The Celebrity Secret Of Permanent Cosmetic Make-Up

by dr peter kadile

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

Dr. Kadile will be writing a regular column for CV Weekly. Please send any medical questions you have to editor@coachellavalleyweekly.com for him to answer.

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Dear Dr. Kadile, I always seem to have a lot of ear wax, even though I clean my ears regularly with Q-tips.

How can I control my wax problem?

-John, Bermuda Dunes John, the hair follicles and glands in your ear canal produce ear wax to protect the ear from dust, bacteria, germs and small objects. Most of the time, wax (cerumen), will make its way to the outer opening of the ear and fall out, but sometimes the wax may build up and cause a blockage in the ear canal. Q-tips are meant to clean the outer ear and should never be placed into the ear canal. I very frequently see patients who use Q-tips in their ears and they are essentially pushing the ear wax deeper into the ear canal. Most wax problems can be taken care of at home. You can soften the ear wax using body temperature water, over the counter ear drops, baby oil or hydrogen peroxide. If you can’t get it out on your own, then you should see your doctor.

Interestingly, smokers produce more ear wax than non-smokers, so if you smoke, consider quitting.

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