Coachella Valley Weekly - April 16 to April 22, 2020 Vol. 9 No. 5

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coachellavalleyweekly.com • April 16 to April 22, 2020

Hospitality Workforce Relief Fund

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Hey Bertha

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Doug & Meg Music

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The Monkees

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Vol.9 No.5

LULU California Bistro

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April 16 to April 22, 2020

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Coachella Valley Weekly (760) 501-6228

4/20 PREVAILS DURING CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC

BY CRYSTAL HARRELL

publisher@coachellavalleyweekly.com coachellavalleyweekly.com facebook.com/cvweekly twitter.com/cvweekly1 Publisher & Editor Tracy Dietlin Art Director Robert Chance Sales Team Kirby Club Crawler Nightlife Editor Phil Lacombe Head Music Writer Noe Gutierrez Head Feature Writer Crystal Harrell Feature Writers Lisa Morgan, Rich Henrich, Heidi Simmons, Tricia Witkower, Jason Hall, Esther Sanchez Writers/Contributors: Robin Simmons, Rick Riozza, Eleni P. Austin, Craig Michaels, Janet McAfee, Bronwyn Ison, Haddon Libby, Sam DiGiovanna, Dale Gribow, Denise Ortuno Neil, Rob Brezny, Dr. Peter Kadile, Dee Jae Cox, Angela Romeo, Aaron Ramson, Lynne Tucker, Aimee Mosco, Michelle Anne Rizzio, Ruth Hill, Madeline Zuckerman Photographers Robert Chance, Laura Hunt Little, Chris Miller, Iris Hall, Esther Sanchez Videographer Kurt Schawacker Website Editor Bobby Taffolla Distribution Phil Lacombe, William Westley

CONTENTS

4/20 in the Coachella Valley.................... 3 Cannabis Corner ......................................... 6 Cannabis - Endocannabinoid System........ 7 Hospitality Workforce Relief Fund............. 7 *NEW* VIRTUAL VIEWING ........................... 8 Emily A. Parasiliti a.k.a. Hey Bertha.......... 8 Doug & Meg Music ..................................... 9 Fantasy Spring Rescheduled Events ........ 9 Consider This - The Monkees.......... 10-11 Pet Place ................................................... 12 Society Scene - Power Of One.................. 13 The Vino Voice ....................................... 14 Brewtality............................................... 15 Good Grub - LULU California Bistro...... 15 Screeners ................................................ 16 Safety Tips ...............................................17

April 16 to April 22, 2020

minimum of six feet apart and hand sanitizer is provided upon entry and at the POS station. The individuals checking IDs and handling payments are also now required to sanitize after every transaction. There will be no unmedicated samples provided at this time and no sample "smell" containers of flowers will be utilized at the West Coast Cannabis Club locations. It is also being enforced that customers may not handle any product they are not going to purchase. Latex gloves are provided for the staff, and they are to instruct retail employees to wear latex gloves when receiving product. “We obviously agree wholeheartedly that cannabis is an essential health product for thousands of our customers. We have created relationships with countless locals who have shared story after story about how cannabis is necessary for their everyday lives. We are honored to be given this responsibility and we take it very seriously. We believe that we have taken every step we can to ensure that our customers can feel safe coming to get their usual orders,” stated Churchill. West Coast Cannabis Club strongly encourages customers to pre-order their product to ensure availability and recommends taking advantage of their home delivery option to prevent too many people from visiting the dispensaries all at once. To schedule a delivery, call 760-636-0827. Another local dispensary in the Coachella Valley that is persisting and flourishing through the COVID-19 pandemic is Palm Royale Collective in Palm Desert. Co-owners Don and Kathleen Wilson report an average of 400 customers per day visiting their store or taking advantage of curbside pick-up. “We were one of the only dispensaries in the Coachella Valley offering delivery options even before the pandemic started and we really have been growing our numbers ever since we opened,” said Don.

Delivery minimums range from $40 to $75 depending on the city, and to see if you are eligible for delivery or any other questions, call 760-851-3286. Palm Royale Collective caters to medical and recreational customers with products like flower, tinctures, vapes, waxes, balms, edibles, oils, medical CBD, pet CBD, and accessories. Coachillum Fest will be a four-day store event to commemorate 4/20, lasting from April 17 through the 20th, and providing a safe alternative for large celebratory gatherings. Coachillum Fest will include up to 50 percent off merchandise, vendor promos, live music courtesy of DJ VEEV, and double loyalty points. Specials will not just be honored in store, but through delivery and curbside pick-up as well. “The tagline we’re using for this year’s Coachillum Fest is, ‘people don't just come here for the music.’ It’s for the people, for the experience, and for the healing,” explained Kathleen. Joy Brown Meredith, CEO of Joy Industries, Inc. and head of Joy of Life Wellness Center in Palm Springs, has had to change the operation of her business as well in the wake of COVID-19. Receiving their license in 2015, Joy of Life Wellness Center is a three- generation familyowned and managed, socially conscious operation. Meredith is interested in bringing natural medicine to the people, especially those who are ill and the elderly population. She has built her whole business around that idea, and knows her customers and patients rely on Joy of Life to provide safer alternative medicine in their lives. “We have had to think of ways to be more creative in our health and safety procedures. We have been masked, gloved and observing six-foot separation for almost a month here, and we are already known as the cleanest dispensary in town. We also added state-approved curbside pickup. You can order by phone or email and put the money in an envelope in your trunk. We will come out to your car, pop open your trunk, and we put your package in the trunk and get the envelope. Voila! No personal contact at all,” explained Meredith. As for the missed opportunity for 4/20 gatherings and large parties, Meredith insists that the safety and well-being of those most at risk should take priority. For specific information on deals and specials, call 760318-1420. “There will be plenty of time later to celebrate —and what a great celebration it will be!” exclaimed Meredith.

Haddon Libby ........................................ 18 Dale Gribow ........................................... 18 Swag For The Soul ................................. 19 Mind, Body & Spirit ............................... 20 Free Will Astrology................................ 20

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April 16 to April 22, 2020

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April 16 to April 22, 2020

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April 16 to April 22, 2020

CANNABIS CORNER

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BY RUTH HILL R.N.

WHICH IS MORE DANGEROUS THE ECONOMIC SHUTDOWN OR CANNABIS?

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eports of an article titled “Commercial Cannabinoid Oil-Induced StevensJohnson Syndrome,” is making its way into mainstream media who are jumping on the drug war bandwagon. A 56-year-old women died recently from complications of Steven-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) while taking a nonregulated FDA cannabidiol (CBD) product. While this article does not make any causal relationship between her death and cannabis it does point out the serious drug interactions that can occur. SJS is caused by drug to drug interactions. It presents with symptoms of fever, unexplained widespread skin pain and rash that spreads then blisters on all mucous membranes. Skin tissue starts to shed, detach and patients eventually succumb to septic shock. What caused her death and how can you avoid this? Pharmaceuticals this woman was taking included: famotidine, lisinoprilhydrochlorothiazide, and meloxicam. She had been taking CBD products for several years without side effects. Prior to her hospitalization she switched to a new CBD tincture, Natural Native, in grapeseed oil which contains retinoids. Natural Native utilizes a liposomal delivery method which facilitates a 10 to 100-fold increase in availability of the drug in the circulating system.

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Similar to grapefruit juice, CBD can cause drug-drug interactions. CBD can block or increase actions on cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYPs). Liposomal delivery likely enhanced not only the level of CBD in the patient but also the level of retinoid compounds found in the grapeseed oil. This, in turn, slowed the metabolism of the meloxicam, further elevating its levels in the blood. There was no certificate of analysis on the website for this product, therefore we don’t know the dose of CBD that was administered or if other contaminants were also present. This perfect storm of meloxicam, retinoid compounds and liposomes triggered the Stevens-Johnson syndrome resulting in death. Avoid liposomal products. Remember hemp CBD products are not regulated or

tested like those sold in dispensaries. Clean your devices. There are many products out there if you cannot get any alcohol such as BongBae. Many viruses can stick to surfaces for 1-2 days. I am sure we will go back to sharing a joint very shortly as current medical research by many scientists is claiming there are many people who have the virus and do not know it. Therefore, we already have immunity. When we do open the economy, we have treatments for the COVID-19 virus. There are those suggesting Schweppes tonic water and zinc. These can be used as a prophylaxis until your symptoms require a physician to prescribe the hydroxychloroquine azithromycin and zinc combination. We are learning that providing this treatment early is key to preventing the need for a ventilator. The endocannabinoid system in our bodies is our natural defense in fighting diseases. We naturally produce Anandamide (our THC) and 2-AG (our CBD). These endogenous cannabinoids have medicinal and therapeutic benefits. Consuming cannabis to replace our deficits is proven to be anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, anti-pain, and immunemodulating. THC in small doses have been found to be a bronchodilator and has been shown to quell the cytokine storm described at the beginning of this article. There are nurses and doctors being laid off

due to empty hospitals. The Navy’s hospitals are practically empty. The Javits Center does not have COVID-19 patients. Hospitals are prevented from doing elective surgeries and seeing regular patients with everyone focused on COVID-19. Look at what Florida is doing. They helped their nursing facilities early giving them protective equipment while managing the most vulnerable. We have treatments for this virus. Let’s treat everyone prophylactically and open the economy. We need to get back to work. Staying idle at home away from loved ones is dangerous for our health. Suicides are increasing. There are millions of people not getting their chemotherapy, their iron infusions, their intravenous antibiotics, tests that diagnose advance disease and a multitude of other ailments. The media is not giving us accurate information. You can’t go to WAR expecting NO casualties. Fear is not the answer. Our natural bodies have a resilience we can rely on. Have faith in your own intuition. I believe we need to pressure our legislators to open the economy and use the treatments we have before we die, alone in our houses in despair. For questions on drug interactions with cannabis or current treatments for COVID-19 email hilruth@gmail.com


CANNABIS CORNER

AN INTRODUCTION TO THE ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM

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COMMUNITY

BY MICHELLE ANN RIZZIO

April 16 to April 22, 2020

HOSPITALITY WORKFORCE RELIEF FUND SEEKS DONATIONS TO AID LOCAL WORKERS FACING FINANCIAL HARDSHIP FROM COVID-19

VISIT GPSHOSPITALITYFUND.ORG TO MAKE A FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTION

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hy does cannabis work synergistically with our human body? The endocannabinoid system within our bodies regulates endocannabinoids within our entire body. The system exists within our endocrine system which regulates hormonal release that influences almost every cell, organ, and function of our bodies. It influences and controls our mood, growth, development, the way our organs work, metabolism, and even reproduction. The endocannabinoid specifically refers to a collection of cell receptors and corresponding molecules. There are two primary cell receptors which make up the endocannabinoid system, the cannabinoid receptor 1 (cb1) and cannabinoid receptor 2 (cb2). Endocannabinoids are created by the body. Cannabinoid receptors are found throughout the entire body and have a wide range of functions. CB1 receptors are abundant within the central nervous system and CB2 receptors are more often found on immune cells, the gastrointestinal tract, and in the peripheral nervous system. Diversity of receptor locations show how important endocannabinoids are to our day-today bodily function. Endocannabinoids are chemical messengers that alert the body to get these processes moving and when to stop. Endocannabinoids maintain homeostasis, although when disrupted many things can fall out of balance. Dysregulation can contribute to wide varieties of conditions such as autoimmune issues and skin issues. Within the human body, endocannabinoids are created with fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are required to keep the system healthy. Hemp seeds can provide these sources of omega-3’s which can assist in keeping the endocannabinoid

system together. Cannabis provides phytocannabinoids which can assist in regulation of the endocannabinoid system. As cannabis science is becoming legal as countries legalize the plant we can look forward to receiving more concrete information about just how aligned cannabis and the human body could possibly be. CBD along with THC stimulate the endocannabinoid system. THC binds with cannabinoid receptors directly whereas CBD does not. THC mimics the body’s own endocannabinoids, whereas CBD increases the bioavailability of endocannabinoids in your body. Because of CBD’s influence on the body it can be used by many cells thus creating a relaxed and eased experience for the user. Available in smokeables, oils, tinctures, edibles, and even bath bombs CBD can shift the users overall sense of wellness without any psychoactivity due to the way it interacts with our endocannabinoid system. The system is so aligned with cannabis that it was actually named after the plant! When using cannabis, the THC and CBD align to assist with the therapeutic advantages users experience. It’s truly an all across the board experience, filling in the blanks where the endocannabinoid system may be disrupted within you from a host of different environmental, and genetic causes. The synergy of all cannabinoids, along with terpenoids and flavonoids (to be discussed in a future article), encourages us as users and investigators of this plant to remember that isolation of the cannabinoids and full spectrum use of the cannabinoids may be effective for therapeutic treatment. We must not focus our future research into one aspect of the spectrum without honoring and acknowledging the full spectrum.

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he Greater Palm Springs Tourism Foundation is collecting donations to support local workers in the tourism and hospitality industry facing financial hardship as a result of COVID-19. All donations will provide economic relief to Greater Palm Springs families who depend on work in the hospitality and tourism industry for their livelihood. Funds will be distributed by local nonprofit, Lift to Rise and United Way of the Desert, through the Coachella Valley Economic Protection Plan and Support Fund. Visit GPShospitalityfund.org to make a financial contribution. More than 50,000 jobs are supported by tourism in the Coachella Valley. As a result of the statewide shelter-in-place guidelines, many workers in the Greater Palm Springs tourism and hospitality industry face severely reduced hours or are out of work, impacting their ability to provide for their families and afford basic necessities, like food and housing. Donations will support those experiencing unprecedented challenges brought on by the coronavirus crisis. Families experiencing economic hardship as a result of job loss or

reduction in hours in the hospitality and tourism industry in the Coachella Valley are eligible to apply for assistance through the Coachella Valley Economic Protection Plan and Support Fund at www.lifttorise.org/ protection. The Coachella Valley Economic Protection Plan connects residents with a wide range of existing resources to assist with housing, utilities, food insecurity, medical care, transportation, education and other services. The Support Fund aids hospitality workers struggling with the economic impacts of COVID-19 by providing as many families as possible with $200 in immediate economic relief.

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April 16 to April 22, 2020

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Tack Room Tavern – Lance Riebsomer – Facebook – 8:30pm

SATURDAY:

Rod Van Buren – Facebook – 9pm

SUNDAY:

The Sieve and the Saddle – Facebook – 12pm Lisa Lynn and the Broken Hallelujahs – Facebook – 2pm Derek Jordan Gregg and Jetta King – Facebook – 2pmish Blasting Echo – Facebook – 5pm Krystofer Do – Facebook – 7-9:30pm

MONDAY:

Slim Man – Facebook - 5pm

TUESDAY: THURSDAY:

Warsaw Poland Bros – Facebook – 11:30am Hey Bertha – Facebook – 4pm Tony Licker (T-Lick) – Facebook – 6pm East Rock Roots – Desert Rhythm Project – Facebook – 7pm Cody White and the Easy Ride – Facebook – 7:30pm

Rose Mallett – Facebook – 6:30pm Michael Keeth – Facebook – 7-8:30pm

FRIDAY:

Slim Man – Facebook – 5pm Rose Mallett – Facebook – 5pm Vinny Berry – Facebook – 6pm Derek Jordan Gregg and Jetta King – Facebook – 6pm Michael Keeth – Facebook – 7-8pm Carlos Cruz and Frank Villa – Facebook – 8pm

A CHAT WITH EMILY ALEXANDRIA PARASILITI (AKA) HEY BERTHA

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e had the pleasure of hearing Emily perform for the first time during CV Weekly’s first online CVCV Virtual Music Festival last month when the Stay at Home Quarantine first began. We were so impressed that I wanted to let the Coachella Valley Weekly readers know a little more about her. She moved here in August of 2019 from Colorado but is originally from a small town in Massachusetts called Hatfield. She says it is so small that it doesn’t even have a stop light. “I moved here on a whim when it was still snowing in June in Colorado. I have a journal from when I was 9 years old that said ‘One day I’ll live in California and be a musician’” I thought it was about time I finally did that. I moved here from Colorado and for years I have lived all over the country in a VW Bus,” shared Emily. She is a fulltime musician, but does freelance work for music publishing companies and record labels as well. I asked if she has family here. “My family is still in Massachusetts, but I have an orange cat and a lovely boyfriend I get to call my housemates here.” Emily describes her music as “big toetapping Americana.” I asked who her influences are. “Oh golly, I was raised on a heavy dose of Stevie Nicks, Bonnie Raitt & Joni Mitchell. But, the bands Houndmouth, Lone Bellow & The Lumineers have had a major impact on me as well.” I asked if she is doing anymore FB live shows since when she did our CV Weekly Virtual Fest?

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“Yes!” she replied. “ I’ll be going live at 4 PM PCT every Thursday for the foreseeable future, so thanks CV Weekly for shaking out my jitters and introducing me to online live shows.” “I’m in the midst of working on an album that will be out this fall, but I’m releasing a new at home recording & video every other week right now. You can find my music at www.heyberthamusic.com or follow me on Instagram/Facebook at @hey_bertha .” Emily says that she has made a few musician friends since her arrival in the valley. “The wonderful Will Sturgeon of Brightener and Josiah Gonzalez of Avenida Music thanks to the Academy of Musical Performance in Indio Have become friends.”

WEDNESDAY:

Slim Man – Facebook - 5pm Daytime Moon – Facebook – 7:30pm

Contact Phil Lacombe to have your Virtual Performance listed here. philip@coachellavalleyweekly.com

BY TRACY DIETLIN

She shared how the music scene here compares to that in Colorado. “I am coming from the Colorado music scene which was saturated with bluegrass and Americana musicians. I’m finding a lot more rock n’ roll and experimental music in the Coachella Valley (which is giving me ideas to expand my folky roots.) Although the scene isn’t as big out here, it feels like a very tight knit community where everyone seems to know everyone and wants to support each other. I absolutely love it!” She states that her main instrument is her vocals, but she plays piano, harmonica, and is known to whip out a melodica in a jam circle from time to time. What is her favorite music genre? “Anything that feels raw, rough and authentic. I’m a big lyrics gal though so I’ve always been drawn to a good songwriter,” she said. She said that for her songwriting process it generally starts with the lyrics. “I have suitcases full of lyrics. Then I typically sit down at the piano and start humming out the melody with chords. If I’m feeling stuck in writing, I go for a walk and put on some simple acoustic music and it usually gets my brain going; along with tons of meditation and fiction reading.” She says the person she most admires in the music business is Cathy Heller from the Don’t Keep Your Day Job Podcast. “After years and years of struggling to make it in the industry, she got creative and figured out how to write for TV and Advertisements. She wasn’t afraid to open herself up to pivoting her dreams and find a way to still have a thriving career in the music business.” She would most like to open for Otis Redding but while that is not possible she picked Willie Nelson.

LOCAL MUSIC

“I would love the chance to open for Lukas Nelson & The Promise of Real and maybe get lucky and sit down with Willie.” Her personal picks for Coachella headliners are Anderson .Paak, Harry Styles (as long as it was with his band from the Tiny Desk Concert), & Lizzo. I asked what she has been doing during this difficult quarantine time. “For the first two weeks I just did a lot of binge eating,” she shared. “But now, I’ve found myself spending my days learning new skills (like recording & taking marketing courses) and focusing on what I can control like writing music and booking shows for the fall. I’m also getting outdoors to hike a whole bunch, this valley is just insanely beautiful.” She said what she is looking forward to the most after quarantine is playing shows, and that she can’t wait to give people big ol’ hugs again, “And sushi, eating all the soosh.” “I read something recently that really stuck with me. It said that we, as human beings, are rarer than diamonds. There is only one of us that have our unique DNA and experiences... only one! (No pressure) So, what are we going to do with that gift? I believe we owe it to the world to follow that inner whisper and take a chance on ourselves. This time in quarantine is terrifying and that can be debilitating, but what if we took this time to focus on what we can control; to focus on parts of ourselves that we may have been neglecting; to create and grow ourselves... just a little bit each day. Wouldn’t that be pretty neat? Thank you again CV Weekly, I cannot wait to meet ya’ll and the rest of the music community in my new (hopefully forever) home in the Coachella Valley when this craziness has passed! Stay safe & healthy. – Emily (aka Hey Bertha).”


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DOUG AND MEG MUSIC ON TIGER KING, NEW PROJECTS, AND LIFE IN QUARANTINE

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wo of my favorite performers in the valley recently did a video spoof on the Tiger King and when I watched it on FB I laughed so hard. It really made my day. Laughter is so important right now and so is music. Doug and Meg are the amazing duo you can (or should I say could) here performing all over town. Dougie van Sant is the frontman for the many CVMA award winning Flusters and Meagan Van Dyke won Best Female Vocalist at last year’s CVMAs. They took some time to chat with me about how they are dealing with Covid 19 quarantine time. CVW: I love the video you did for “I Saw a Tiger,” the spoof on the Netflix series Tiger King. How did that come about? How long did it take to film it? Doug: “Like millions of other people, Meg and I watched Tiger King in a matter of days. As soon as we finished, I knew I wanted to make a video for “I Saw A Tiger”. I went into Meg’s closet, threw on her Hannah Montana wig, a pair of her earrings, one of her chokers and my cowboy hat, and got to work. The video was shot by my good friend and business partner Wolf Mearns. Together we own Tracker Studios, a fully-outfitted, cinematic production company. We shot the video in just a few hours at our condo complex in Palm Desert and performed the song live. We spent a day on editing and away it went to the internet.” CVW: What other projects are you working on while in quarantine? Doug: “Meg and I are working on LOTS of creative projects. We recently released a video of us performing a duet of “Imagine” by John Lennon. The same creative team as Tiger King was used for “Imagine” but this time we brought in Will Sturgeon to mix and master the track. I’m also working on a bunch of original music and some really fun collaborations. I just finished a track with Alex Harrington called “Wait a Minute” which will be out on May 15th under his house label ApresDisco. I’m also working on a collaboration with a really cool Synthwave Metal band from Palm Springs called Jetfire. The Flusters are gearing up for the release of their new single “We Were Young”. Meg and are I currently cooking up our next video as well. It’s going to be a good one.” CVW: I know you’re doing FB live shows from home. How do they feel compared to real shows? Meg: “Setting up a livestream is a lot of

fun! My favorite part, aside from performing, is being able to communicate with the viewers. I love that viewers can comment and we can talk to them in real-time. I also love the fact that we can have friends and family from all over the world log on and watch us, especially those who don’t typically get to see us. We’ve done one live video which was hosted by Coachella Valley’s FB page. We’ve been brainstorming ways to collaborate with Coachella Valley and Craige Campbell for some time and when he invited us to play, we were ecstatic. With it being our first one, we really didn’t know what to expect and I was a little nervous because they have a large following. At one point during the video we had close to 200 people watching and it now has 8,000+ views! We love performing our regular gigs, but there’s something really special about going live on social media and entertaining those who need it the most.” CVW: Do you feel like you’re getting a lot of support? Doug: “We’ve been getting lots of calls and messages from friends, family and colleagues. With most calls, the ‘how are you holding up’ portion of the conversation is quite brief and then we jump right into collaborative brainstorming. I love that when most people contact us, it’s to engage one another creatively. Pandemic or not, we live to create!” CVW: Have you been checking out other artists as well? Meg: “Yes! I love that our desert has such a rich music community. There’s never a shortage of musicians who are streaming live on social media or coming up with unique ideas on how to keep the music going. Now, more than ever, it’s important to keep creating and inspiring people through music. It not only gives us something to look forward to as performers, but it allows us to connect with our community in ways we normally wouldn’t. Our music-colleagues are taking the time to curate really great sets of music and it makes us feel excited and motivated to want to continue to do that too!” CVW: What music has helped get you through this time? Doug: “I’ve been listening to a lot of different music but really, the music that has gotten me through is my own. Not in the sense that I’m my own biggest fan. I don’t dance around my house to Flusters albums on repeat or anything like that. What I mean is it’s been

BY TRACY DIETLIN

so cathartic to be in my studio day after day, fleshing out ideas and expanding my creative boundaries to see what comes out on the other end. Then I blink and it’s dinnertime. It’s a very trance-like experience when you tap into that creative realm and time doesn’t move at the same pace. It’s extremely meditative.” CVW: What else are you doing to get through? TV Shows? Stuff around the house? Meg: “I am grateful to be working remotely for my job at the McCallum Theatre. It’s keeping me focused and busy throughout the day. This has also been a good time to think not about what I’m losing out on, but what I now can get back to! I spend so much of my time out and about, especially in season, that I am actually really enjoying my time at home. It’s given me the opportunity to work on things that I haven’t had the time for. Doug and I have been able to really focus on creating new content. We’re really proud of the two videos we put out recently. We are also working on revamping Doug & Meg Music so that when we go back to work, we have a fresh sound. I’ve finally been able to put some focus on my blog, Mad About Meg, so it’s been fun for me to collaborate with other bloggers and get back to creating more content. I just want to stay busy and channel this unique time into a personal

April 16 to April 22, 2020

LOCAL MUSIC

victory by tapping into the things I haven’t had time for.” CVW: What are your thoughts about everything we’re dealing with right now! Doug: “There’s a lot of fear and uncertainty about the future. We are living in unprecedented times. None of us know what tomorrow or next week looks like. I feel extremely grateful to still be able to use my gift to connect with people and make them smile. I really feel for those that require human contact to share their gift i.e. stylists, massage therapists, tattoo artists, etc. Either way, my wish is that we all come out of this having gone through a positive metamorphosis that has made us stronger human beings. If you’re like me then this pandemic has caused you to slow down, look inward, and really count your blessings.” CVW: What do you most look forward to when this lockdown is over? Meg: “I can’t wait to get back to performing! I also can’t wait to see our family and friends, go out to dinner and just get back to normal life!” Doug: “I’ll second that. I miss the stage. I miss backyard BBQ’s. I miss family and friends.” FB and IG handle is @dougandmegmusic @dougiefluster and @madaboutmeg

FANTASY SPRINGS ANNOUNCES EVENTS NEW DATES FOR CHAKA KHAN, PITBULL, KENNY G, DARYL HALL & JOHN OATES, OTHER ARTISTS

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antasy Springs Resort Casino has announced new dates for Chaka Khan, Pitbull, Kenny G, Daryl Hall & John Oates, and other previously scheduled artists whose shows have been postponed due to the coronavirus (COVID-19). The new dates are as follows: CHAKA KHAN, Saturday, July 4th. Tickets are $49, $69, and $89. PITBULL, Saturday, July 11th. Tickets are $79, $99, $139 and $169. KENNY G, Friday, September 11th. Tickets are $39, $49, and $69. DARYL HALL & JOHN OATES, Saturday, October 17th. Tickets are $79, $99, $139, and $169. JASON BONHAM’S LED ZEPPELIN EVENING, Friday, October 30th. Tickets are $29, $39, and $59. GEORGE LOPEZ, Saturday, November 7th. Tickets are $59, $79, and $99.

All shows start at 8 p.m. inside Fantasy Springs Resort Casino’s Special Events Center. Tickets for the new dates go on sale this Monday, April 13th at FantasySpringsResort. com. Previously purchased tickets are valid for the new dates. Additional shows postponed due to the coronavirus including Pepe Aguilar (May 3rd), Norah Jones with Mavis Staples (May 16th), Gladys Knight (May 22nd), and Jesse & Joy (June 27th) are being rescheduled with new dates pending. For more information, please visit FantasySpringsResort.com.

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April 16 to April 22, 2020

CONSIDER THIS

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BY ELENI P. AUSTIN

THE MONKEES “We were born to love one another, this is something we all need/We were born to love one another, we must be what we’re going to be, and what we have to be is free.” hose lyrics were written back in 1967, just ahead of the Summer Of Love, and it’s message was as potent as Buffalo Springfield’s clarion call, “For What It’s Worth” and Beatles’ “All You Need Is Love.” But it was written by Peter Tork and recorded by his band The Monkees, therefore it was never given serious attention from critics or snobbish Rock fans. To those pretentious elitists, The Monkees weren’t a genuine Rock band. Back in 1965, fledgling filmmakers Bob Rafaelson and Burt Schneider (who went on to produce influential Counterculture films like “Easy Rider” and “Five Easy Pieces”), were influenced by the runaway success of the Beatles’ “A Hard Day’s Night” movie. They immediately proposed a TV series centered around the musical misadventures of a struggling Rock group. They sold the idea to Screen Gems set about casting the band. The producers placed an ad in “Daily Variety” and the “Hollywood Reporter” looking for “spirited Ben Frank’s-types” (a reference to a 24-hour coffee shop located on the Sunset Strip that attracted young

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“LIVE THE MIKE AND MICKY SHOW” (RHINO RECORDS)

people, hipsters and musicians). After winnowing down over 400 applicants, the four guys that made the final cut were two musically inclined actors, Davy Jones and Micky Dolenz, along with two musicians, Mike Nesmith and Peter Tork. British-born Davy had already made a name for himself as the “Artful Dodger” in the Broadway production of “Oliver.” Micky had grown up in a show business family, as a child he’d starred in the “Circus Boy” TV series. During his teens, he fronted his own Garage band, the Missing Links. Texas transplant Mike moved to L.A. after a stint in the Air Force, intent on pursuing a music career. Initially he gigged around town under the name Michael Blessing, then as part of a trio called Mike & John & Bill. Peter (born Peter Thorkelson) grew up on the East Coast. A talented multiinstrumentalist, he quickly found a place in the burgeoning Folk scene of Greenwich Village. The series premiered on CBS in September, 1966, it was preceded by The Monkees’ first single, “Last Train To Clarksville,” which began its rapid ascent up the charts. By hiring veteran music producer Don Kirshner to supervise the band’s music, Screen Gems guaranteed Don would cherry-pick songs from a pool of talented songwriters like Boyce & Hart, Neil Diamond and Goffin & King. Although

the guys sang on The Monkees’ self-titled debut, they weren’t allowed to play any instruments. Mike was able to include two of his own songs “Papa Gene’s Blues” and “Sweet Young Thing” alongside hits like “I Wanna Be Free” and “Take A Giant Step.” The album shot to #1. The show was an instant hit. The band’s antics could be broad and subversive in equal measure, combining the whimsy of the Beatles with plenty of slapstick and a dash of Marx Brothers-style sarcasm. The guys warily adhered to Screen Gems’ terms, Monkeemania was in full swing and the band returned to the studio, dutifully recorded More Monkees. That album spent an astounding 18 weeks at #1 and ended up selling 70 million albums. Now, in addition to filming the series and recording sessions, they were required to go on tour. On the road, Mike, Peter, Micky and Davy proved their musical proficiency. They insisted that they should be allowed to play on the upcoming Monkees album. Bob Rafelson and Burt Schneider took their side, and following a particularly contentious meeting with Don Kirshner, the band was given creative control. Their next two albums, Headquarters and Pisces, Aquarius, Capricorn & Jones, Ltd. were released within months of each other in 1967 and the results were consistently wonderful. Not only did they play their own instruments, but Mike, Micky and Peter contributed original cuts like “Sunny Girlfriend,” “Randy Scouse Git” and the aforementioned “For Pete’s Sake.” Unfortunately, music critics continued to belittle the band, derisively nicknaming them the “Pre-Fab Four.” Conveniently forgetting the fact that beloved bands like the Beach Boys and the Byrds received assistance from from the same studio professionals that the Screen Gems initially insisted the Monkees use. Meanwhile, their records continue to sell, and they won praise from the actual Fab Four, who befriended Micky, Davy, Peter and Mike. They continued to tour, even adding an unknown Jimi Hendrix as their opening act in 1967. They recorded more albums, and their show remained popular, that allowed them to champion new talent on the show. Tim Buckley and Frank Zappa both appeared in separate episodes as themselves. The show was cancelled at the end of the second season, allowing Bob, Burt and the band to make a feature film, “Head.” Hallucinogenic, trippy and covertly anti-war, it was written their pal Jack Nicholson, who was a few years away from becoming a critically-acclaimed

actor. The film flopped, and by the close of the sixties, the guys went their separate ways. Micky moved behind the cameras, Davy continued to act and make music, Peter and Mike also continued to record. In 1986, MTV began airing programming blocks of the original “Monkees” series and a whole new generation was introduced to the show’s timeless appeal. Soon their old Greatest Hits collection was surging up the charts. Micky, Davy and Peter capitalized on the renewed interest by going out on tour (Mike opted out). They also recorded a new album, Pool It. Unfortunately, the album leaned closer to a synth-heavy ‘80s sound, rather than the effervescent ‘60s Jangle that characterized their original hits. The trio continued to tour occasionally, coming together for milestone years. In 1996 they released Justus, produced by Mike, but that also missed the mark. In 2011, they launched a massive tour to commemorate their 45th anniversary. Sadly, Davy suffered a fatal heart attack in early 2012. As a tribute to their old compadre, Mike joined Peter and Micky for a series of concerts later that same year. In 2013, Micky released Remember, a rueful solo album that paid affectionate tribute to Davy as well as the late Harry Nilsson. In 2016, to celebrate the band’s 50th anniversary, their longtime label, Rhino Records recruited avowed Monkees acolyte, Fountains Of Wayne bassist, Adam Schlesinger (R.I.P. fucking COVID 19), to produce a new album. Even though critics have always disputed the Monkees authenticity, musicians who grew up in the ‘60s and ‘70s appreciated the band on a more visceral level. When Adam asked some famous fans to contribute something to the project, he received new songs from XTC’s Andy Partridge, Weezer architect Rivers Cuomo, Death Cab For Cutie’s Ben Gibbard and even a collaboration from ex-Jam front man Paul Weller and Oasis’ leader Noel Gallagher. Not only did Good Times receive rave reviews, it also debuted at #8 on the Billboard charts. The band quickly followed this feat in 2018 by releasing Christmas Party, which was also produced by Adam. It wound up being Peter’s final album with the band. In 2009 he had been diagnosed with adenoid cystic carcinoma, after undergoing treatment it seemed as though he had beat it, but it returned nine years later and he passed away in early 2019. That same year, Mike and Micky decided to perform as a duo. As far back as their series days, the pair had enjoyed harmonizing between takes, jokingly


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referring to their sound as “The Everly Monkees.” Delving into the band’s catalog, they cherry-picked songs they thought might highlight their fraternal blend. The duo put together a crack nine-piece band and hit the road. To document the tour they have now released The Monkees Live: The Mike & Micky Show. To paraphrase the “Sound Of Music,” the 25-song set starts at the very beginning, and it’s a very fine place to start. “Last Train To Clarksville” rattles to life with ringing guitars, sidewinder bass, shaded keys, a tick-tock beat and tambourine shake. Micky’s sunny tenor is slightly huskier than it was in ’66, but it’s lost none of its warmth. There’s a joyous chime to this Boyce & Hart hit that never gets old. The hits just keep coming, Mickey is front and center on two Mike compositions, “Mary, Mary” and “The Girl I Knew Somewhere.” The former is a slice of shaggy Psychedelia powered by stinging shang-a-lang guitars, spidery bass lines and a zig-zag rhythm. A bit of backand-forth between Micky and the backing vocalists adds a Soulful call-and-response flavor. On the latter, kaleidoscopic harpsichord runs weave in and out of an aural tapestry featuring splattery guitars, throbbing, stop-start bass and a tribal tattoo. The lyrics unfurl a tale of suspicion and Déjà vu, as the girl Micky’s wooing seems to be a tad too familiar: “Well, goodbye dear, I just can’t take this chance again, my fingers are still burning from the last time/And if your love was not a game, I only have myself to blame, that as maybe I can’t explain, just ask the girl I knew somewhere.” He’s also the lead on signature cuts like “Pleasant Valley Sunday.” The melody and instrumentation on Gerry Goffin/Carole King tune redefines the term “catchy.” Revved-up guitars, prowling bass lines and shimmering piano notes are wed to a whipcrack beat. All of it serving trenchant lyrics that paint a vivid picture of suburban ennui; “Another Pleasant Valley Sunday, here in status symbol land/Mothers complain about how hard life is, and the kids just don’t understand.” Almost

magically, the tempo shapeshifts on the bridge, locking into a sunshiny Samba groove. Then there’s the prickly Proto-Punk of “(I’m Not Your) Steppin’ Stone,” which is fueled by snarly guitars, stutter-y bass and a stompy beat. Micky spits out class-conscious lyrics with caustic contempt. The arrangement wigs out on the break, augmented by swirly keys that push the song toward a Frug-y conclusion. Conversely, “Goin’ Down” is a showstopper that allows Micky to channels both Louis Prima and Bob Dylan. The only song credited to all of the Monkees, it’s a stream-of-conscious, syncopated Jazz number that sports Gypsy Django guitars, lonesome pedal steel and a fiery trumpet solo. Mike is given full-reign to showcase his Country-comfort vocals as well as his prodigious songwriting skills. From the bucolic bliss of the banjo-riffic “Sunny Girlfriend,” the skittery, Psychedelic hoedown of “Circle Sky,” and the whirring see-saw of “Sweet Young Thing,” along with the insistent “You Told Me” and ringing jingle-jangle of “You Just May Be The One.” He slows down the intro of his penultimate hit, “Listen To The Band,” lingering on the sorrow of a broken romance; “Hey, hey, mercy woman, plays a good song and no one listens, I need help I’m falling again,” as he strums a solitary acoustic guitar. Rather quickly, the band rides to his rescue, locking into a majestic fanfare replete with fluttery keys, willowy pedal steel and stately brass accents, hammering home the hard-won belief that music can lighten our cosmic load. The collection makes room for deep cuts from the band’s later years, including two from Mike, the cryptic CowboyPsychedelia of “Auntie’s Municipal Court” and the Dixie-fied drone of “St. Matthew.” “As We Go Along” is another flash of Carole King brilliance. A Countrified lament in ¾ time, it unfurls slowly, revealing a more contemplative side of Micky, who has to be one of most underrated singers in Rock N’ Roll. The result is both intimate and cinematic.

They also include a couple of songs from the triumphant “Good Times” album, “Birth Of An Accidental Hipster” written by Paul Weller and Noel Gallagher, and “Me And Magdalena” from Ben Gibbard. The former is a blurry blend of trippy BritPop and traditional Music Hall whimsy. The latter is utterly gorgeous, a soulful Country charmer, beautifully suited to Mike’s wistful croon. Burnished piano notes encircle dusty guitars, homespun pedal steel and a kick-drum beat. Micky’s harmonies tenderly shadow this slice of Laurel Canyon arcana. Halfway through, the action slows for a mini three-song set. It’s a welcome surprise. Stripped-down and strictly acoustic, it features a strummy singa-long of “Papa Gene’s Blues” which includes a filigreed, finger-picked guitar solo. “Randy Scouse Git,” Micky’s first foray into songwriting, was originally a droll chronicle of his first trip to England, powered by tripwire piano and thundering timpani drums. With couplets like “The four Kings of E.M.I. are sitting stately on the floor, there are birds out on the sidewalk and a valet at the door/He reminds me of a penguin with few and plastered hair, there’s talcum powder on the letter and the birthday boy is there,” Micky revealed himself to be an adroit lyricist. This rendition is slightly recalibrated, adding flickering guitars, walking bass lines and a shambolic backbeat. The set closes out with Mike’s “Tapioca Tundra.” The song marries opaque and enigmatic lyrics to a loping, Tex-Mex melody propelled by weepy pedal steel, Honky-Tonk piano and brushed percussion. Naturally, Mike’s vocals are suitably spacey and yodel-tastic. There are some bittersweet when Mike and Micky pay tribute to their fallen Monkee brothers. Micky acquits himself nicely handling Davy’s vocals on the sweetly sincere “Daydream Believer,” and his passion is evident on Peter’s anthemic “For Pete’s Sake.” But the whole band kicks out the jams on the Shagadelic Boogaloo of Davy’s “A Little Bit Me, A Little Bit You.” Anchored by rippling guitar riffs, boomerang bass lines, ping-ponging keys, handclap percussion and a rollicking back

April 16 to April 22, 2020

beat, Micky’s vocals echo Davy’s lithe and playful vibe. A serpentine organ solo on the break is aided by an extra percussive kick. The show closes with the bubblegum crunch of “I’m A Believer.” Written by future superstar Neil Diamond, it’s iconic Vox organ intro folds into one of the most infectious Power Pop songs of all time. Waspish guitar riffs stack on top of rumbling bass lines and a snap, crackle beat. The joy is palpable as the band and back-up vocalists converge on this last hurrah. This record is an unmitigated triumph, not only for Mike and Micky, but also for their ace backing band which includes guitarist Wayne Avers, bassist John Billings, drummer Rich Dart, Pete Finney on pedal steel and acoustic guitar, Alex Jules on keys and backing vocals, Circe Link on backing vocals and percussion and the legendary Probyn Gregory on banjo, acoustic guitar, trumpet and melodica. This endeavor is also a bit of a family affair, with Micky’s sister Coco Dolenz on backing vocals and percussion and Mike’s son, Christian adding backing vocals and guitar. The Monkees might never receive the same acclaim afforded the Beach Boys and the Byrds, but like those bands, their music continues to resonate. The Mike & Micky show just reaffirms their greatness.

S and G

PUMPING SERVICE

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April 16 to April 22, 2020

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PET PLACE

ictured here is Loving All Animals’ rescue dog Charcoal (now named Coal) who was happily adopted this week by CeCe Campbell and Janet Hardie. You can’t see everyone’s smiles due to the masks in this “socially distanced adoption.” However, Charcoal beamed joyfully at getting his second “second chance” home. Tracy Habijanac with Loving All Animals reports that little Charcoal was adopted awhile back and sadly returned. Tracy explains, “CeCe originally found Charcoal as a stray and fostered him. She reluctantly relinquished him to our rescue. When he was subsequently adopted and returned to LAA, CeCe immediately noticed he was back on Petfinder. She felt it was serendipity, and called right away to adopt. This is a great adoption! I’m still slogging through these adoptions with or without the Covid-19 Apocalypse virus.” CeCe reports, “Coal is not only improving our lives and bringing us happiness, but he’s brought joy and renewed energy to our 8-yrold dog Sugar. Sugar was never interested in playing with other dogs at the dog park, but during the short time we had Charcoal before we saw they had a connection. These two love playing together, and Sugar has transformed.” CeCe forwarded a video showing Sugar and Charcoal zooming through their yard in a game of chase which ended in happy tumbling. Two dogs often doubles the fun and the love. Science has now proven what we animal lovers knew all along. Many scientific studies indicate the companionship of dogs and cats provides benefits of lowering high blood pressure, reduction of stress, and the overall improvement of our mental and physical health. In these dark times of uncertainty, millions more people need stress relief from anxiety. At the same time, we have millions of homeless pets languishing in shelters. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals estimates approximately 3 million animals are euthanized in public shelters every year. Others homeless animals are abandoned or lost, roaming our neighborhoods hungry and alone.

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RESCUE DOGS AND CATS KEEP US HEALTHY & HAPPY

These two separate problems, humans needing companionship and stress relief, and millions of animals needing homes, can help ease the other. Recent news reports feature more happy endings for shelter animals, in some cases showing rows of empty kennels. Adoptions have increased while folks are home bound and seeking animals to help them deal with loneliness and tension. Hopefully this trend will continue in order to counter the possibility of animals being returned in upcoming months due to illness or economic downturn. Our pets help us to stay in the present moment and push out invasive worries from our minds. I have met combat Veterans with PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) who were unable to work or venture outside their homes until a specially trained service dog brought them renewed calm and security. Other service dogs are trained to alert their humans when they detect changes in the human body prior to an epileptic seizure. Heart attack patients who own a cat or dog have a longer survival rate. Many of us have experienced the relaxing contentment from having a purring cat sit on our laps. Now scientists have discovered one reason why cats keep us healthy and happy. Cats create purr vibrations with a range of 20 to 40 Hz, which is medically therapeutic for many illnesses. Their purring lowers stress,

reduces the chance of heart attacks, and reduces the symptoms of dyspnea. Their playful antics and loving companionship provide respite from loneliness, depression, and other psychological ailments. Now is a great time to consider adopting a new furry family member. A comprehensive website promoting rescue pet adoption is www.petfinder.com. By typing in your preferences as to breed, size, gender and age along with your zip code, you can find animals nearby you that need of homes. Below is a partial list of shelters and rescues in the Inland Empire that have animals for adoption. Some of them also offer foster programs. The information is current as we go to print, but please call for updates as things can change. You can view their animals online in advance of calling. If you cannot adopt right now, consider making a donation to one of the private rescues that rely on private donations. COACHELLA VALLEY ANIMAL CAMPUS – This large county shelter is now closed for adoptions. You can view the animals at all 4 county shelters at www.rcdas.org, and get the ID number of the animal(s) you want to meet. Email them with the animal’s ID number at shelterinfo@rivco.org and call (760) 343-3644. Located at 72050 Pet Land Place, Thousand Palms. (Public) PALM SPRINGS ANIMAL SHELTER – The shelter is closed, but you can call for an appointment to adopt. They schedule appointments Wednesday through Monday, closed on Tuesday. View their animals online at www.psanimalsshelter.org, 4575 E. Mesquite Ave, Palm Springs, (760) 416-5718. (Public) ANIMAL SAMARITANS – The shelter is closed but you can call for an appointment to adopt. View their animals at www. animalsamaritans.org. Email acorrow@ animalsamaritans.org to foster. Located at 72307 Ramon Rd, Thousand Palms, (760) 601-3918. (Private) CALIFORNIA PAWS RESCUE - The shelter is closed but you can call for an appointment to adopt. Located at 73650 Dinah Shore, Palm Desert. View their animals at www.

MEET CHELLA

MEET KALANI

I was hungry and homeless when Kittyland rescued me! I am spayed, vaccinated and ready to go to my “furever” home. I’m a 1-yr-old girl who loves humans and enjoys the company of other cats. Call (760) 251-2700 first for an appointment to meet me, Kittyland is located at 67600 18th Ave, Desert Hot Springs. www.kittylandrescue.org.

I was born with a cleft palate birth defect, but that doesn’t stop me from giving you love and kisses! I am a Staffordshire Terrier girl, 2 yrs old, and like other dogs. My personality is sweet & calm so I would make a great best buddy during the quarantine. California Paws Rescue californiapawsrescue.com saved me from the county shelter. Call (760) 656-3833 for an appointment to meet me at 73650 Dinah Shore, Palm Desert.

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BY JANET McAFEE californiapawsrescue.com, (760) 656-8833. (Private) HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE COACHELLA VALLEY – The shelter closed but you can call for an appointment to adopt. View their animals at www.orphanpet.com. Located at 17825 N. Indian Canyon, Palm Springs, (760) 329-0203. (Private) KITTYLAND – The shelter is closed so call for an appointment to adopt. Located at 67600 18th Avenue, Desert Hot Springs. www.kittylandrescue.org, (760) 251-2700. (Private) LOVING ALL ANIMALS – Shelter currently closed, dogs in foster homes. Located at 83496 Avenue 51, Coachella, www.lovingallanimals. org, (760) 834-7000. (Private) MORONGO BASIN HUMANE SOCIETY – Located at 4646 Sun View Rd, Joshua Tree, www.mbhumanesociety.com, call between 11am-4pm for updates(760) 366-3786 (Private) CITY OF SAN BERNARDINO ANIMAL SHELTER – Shelter closed but you can call for an appointment to adopt. Hours for adoption 10am – 4pm Tuesday through Saturday, closed Sun/Mon. Google “City of San Bernardino Animal Shelter” for website to view animals and get ID number of the animal you want to meet. Located at 333 Chandler Place, San Bernardino, (909) 3841304 or (909) 384-7272. (Public) SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY ANIMAL SHELTER AT DEVORE – Shelter closed but you can call for an appointment to adopt. Call (909) 386-9280 daily between 9am & 5pm. View animals at www.sbcounty.gov/acc and get the ID number of animal you want to meet. Located at 19777 Shelter Way, San Bernardino (Public). DREAM TEAM ANGELS RESCUE - Foster based rescue located in Grand Terrace/San Bernardino area. Contact them through website www.DreamTeamangelsrescue.com, (360) 688-8884. (Private) Photo by Tracy Habijanac. Janetmcafee8@gmail.com


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April 16 to April 22, 2020

SOCIETY SCENE KRIS “TANTO” PARONTO, 2012 HERO OF BENGHAZI ATTACK WAS FEATURED SPEAKER AT OLIVE CREST DESERT COMMUNITIES’ SOLD-OUT “POWER OF ONE” INAUGURAL LUNCHEON BY MADELINE ZUCKERMAN PHOTOS BY GREGG FELSON

LUNCHEON TOOK PLACE ON MARCH 5TH, 2020

O

live Crest, known for its dedication to preventing child abuse, to treating and educating at-risk children and to preserving the family . . . “One Life at a Time,®” hosted its “POWER OF ONE” luncheon with a sold-out crowd of over 200 guests. This inaugural event, which exceeded all expectations, was Co-chaired by Georgialee and Doug Lang, and held at The Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort & Spa. The night before the luncheon, featured speaker Kris “Tanto” Paronto, made a special guest appearance at a private Champions’s Dinner held at the Classic Club. Over 40 youth attended from Olive Crest Programs, including emancipated foster youth and young men from the Olive Crest Perris Group Homes. This special dinner was generously underwritten by Judy Sumich, who commented “I believe deeply in the work of Olive Crest, and when I was told of this opportunity for this population to hear Kris Paronto speak, I was touched because I feel this age group is often overlooked. Two young men spoke to me after the dinner, and they were so excited about what Kris Paronto had to say. That was such a blessing to me, and I felt grateful,” Sumich continued. “I am so grateful to Judy Sumich for underwriting the cost of this dinner, and to Kris Paronto who generously gave of his time to provide this experience for our

kids,” stated Angela Allen, Development Manager of Olive Crest Desert Communities. “We know several of the young people who attended were encouraged and given hope by Kris’ story and inspiring words. Lives have been changed tonight, and that is all that we could have hoped for,” Allen continued. Emcee Doug Lang welcomed luncheon guests, then introduced Singer Doug Hassett, who sang an emotional “God Bless the USA,” followed by a Color Guard Presentation by Desert Hot Springs High School ROTC Honor Guard. The luncheon event concluded with an informative presentation by Tracy Fitzsimmons, Executive Director of Olive Crest Inland and Desert Communities. “Olive Crest is an amazing organization that does so much for the Coachella Valley . . . unsung heroes, who are in the trenches every day helping save kids and bring families back together,” stated Georgialee Lang, Event Co-chair. “It is a privilege to be part of the team here in the desert, and seeing lives transformed,” she continued. Guest Speaker Kris ‘Tanto’ Paronto, the inspiring Hero of the 2012 Benghazi Attack, and subject of the book and motion picture “13 Hours,” spoke of his harrowing experience during the horrific Benghazi Attack to a spellbound audience who was listening to his every word! Kris Paronto is a former Army Ranger from the 2nd Battallon

75th Ranger Regiment and private security contractor who has deployed throughout South America, Central America, the Middle East, and North Africa. He also worked with the U.S. Government’s Global Response Staff conducting low-profile security in high-threat environments throughout the world. Paronto was part of the CIA Annex Security Team that responded to the terrorist attack on the U.S. Special Mission in Benghazi, Libya, on September 11, 2012, helping to save over 20 lives while fighting off terrorists for more than 13 hours. Kris ‘Tanto’ Paronto is a true American hero who exemplifies patriotism, selflessness, and courage. Paronto offers a captivating

(left to right) Harold Wilkinson, Event Sponsor, Kris “Tanto” Paronto, 2012 Hero of Benghazi, Lorraine Brinton, Co-Founder of Olive Crest Desert Communities, Jill Wilkinson, Harold Wilkinson IV, and Dr. James Brinton, Co-founder of Olive Crest Desert Communities.

(left to right) Donald Verleur, Jr., CEO of Olive Crest, Geri Clark, Attorney Walter Clark, and Dr. James Brinton, Co-founder of Olive Crest Desert Communities.

Photo of the Rochford Family, who are Major Supporters of Olive Crest. (left to right) Todd Rochford, Sarah Rochford, Carol Rochford, Kris “Tanto” Paronto, Guest Speaker, Tim Rochford, Tammy Mote and Jeff Mote.

MEMBERS OF THE DESERT HOT SPRINGS HIGH SCHOOL ROTC HONOR GUARD

firsthand account of what happened in Benghazi on that historic day and powerful perspective on leadership, harnessing one’s inner strength and the importance of strong teamwork in perilous situations. His service to his country and sacrifice are an amazing example of the “Power of One.” “The Power of One” speaks to the difference that any one of us can make in the life of a child or family in crisis,” stated Tracy Fitzsimmons, Executive Director of Olive Crest in the Inland and Desert Communities. “Each of us can make a difference by getting involved,” she continued. Major Event Sponsors included the Harold Wilkinson Family, the Patrick M. McCarthy Foundation, Judy Sumich, Am-Cam Group, Blauvelt Electric, Robann’s Jewelers, and Judie Cothrun. Event Media Sponsors included Desert Sun & LOCALiQ, KESQ News Channel 3, Palm Springs Life, Lamar Outdoor Advertising, and CV 104.3. ABOUT OLIVE CREST Since 1973, Olive Crest has transformed the lives of over 130,000 abused, neglected, and at-risk children and their families. Olive Crest works tirelessly to meet the individual needs of kids in crisis by providing safe homes, counseling, and education for both youth and parents. Their many innovative programs reflect their strong conviction that strengthening the family is one of the most powerful ways to help heal children. With unwavering compassion, the Olive Crest family maintains a lifelong commitment to the youth and families it serves, even after they have graduated from their programs. Established, Proven, and Respected, Olive Crest serves over 3,500 children and families each day throughout California, Nevada, and the pacific Northwest. For more information on Olive Crest Desert Communities call 760-848-4124 or visit www.olivecrest.org.

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April 16 to April 22, 2020

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THE VINO VOICE

BY RICK RIOZZA

BITTER TIMES CALL FOR VERMOUTH & BITTERS

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ermouth continues to sell off the shelves every week. Even in these Coronavirus times, with a limited number of shoppers out there, we’re still selling out—to the point that the warehouse that supplies us, was out of the product itself! Indeed, vermouth first started as a medicinal remedy, but I think its sales are fueled by the gin boom and the resurgence of the Negroni, Manhattan, and Martini cocktail craze. (And it’s understandable if we’re imbibing a bit more these days.) However, on the rise of its popularity, some folks are still a little uncertain as to what Vermouth really is. I continue to hear complaints as to where in the liquor department we keep our vermouth. When I first came to Ralphs, the dry vermouth was located by the gin section (for Martinis); the sweet vermouth by the whisk(e)ys (for Manhattans). It made sense to me; but being a “purest”, I liked it when we moved vermouth to the wine section—because, after all, it is a wine. Vermouth is “fortified wine” along the lines of a port, sherry, or Madeira in that a neutral grape-based alcoholic spirit is added to fortify the alcohol content of the wine. Vermouth, however and thereafter, goes on its own path, when botanicals are added, thus entering into yet another category: a bitter. In the same vein as vermouth, bitters are made by infusing—not wine—but a neutral spirit with any number of aromatics, including spices, tree bark, roots, seeds, fruits, etc. And vermouth is a wine that’s been infused with similar stuff. Every so often, one can stump a wine nerd by asking what grapes are used to produce vermouth. And perhaps, through the hems and haws, we’ll get an answer

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that includes a trade of European whites: Clairette blanche, Catarratto, Trebbiano, Blanchetta Trevigiana, and Piquepoul to name a few. Actually, the original Italian vermouth made by Antonio Carpano in the city of Torino back in 1786 or so, was quite egalitarian: He used grapes from Romagna towards the north of Italy, from Puglia in the south, and from Sicily in the Mediterranean. The top-notch, very reputable and famed Carpano Antica Vermouth Formula, which is the name of the brand’s vermouth label is still made with that exact recipe. The Antica Formula is a rich and unctuous vermouth with balanced vanilla notes that is ideal for sipping neat; and, the Antica Formula is fantastic when mixed into a Manhattan or even a Negroni cocktail. Whatever white grapes are used in the vermouth blend, the base wine is then briefly aged before a specific amount of

sugar syrup is added. Yep—that’s right, and that’s where we get the dry and the sweet versions of the veritable vermouth. Historically, herb-infused wines have existed for millennia; for medicinal purposes of course since herbs are our natural healing plants. In the 18th Century, when better wines were making their strides in both France and Italy, alchemists in the day (known as bartenders in our day) were all about creating a brew that works and treats medically and entertainingly. So when Carpano of Torino put together his “Rosso”, sweet red vermouth, he did have a prototype existing across the border in France of a “Sec” or “dry” style—made with a lot less added sugar, if much at all. Sooner or later, all types and styles of herb-infused wines, aka vermouths, sweet, dry or in the middle came on the market. And modernly, with craft distilling on the rise, we shall see innovating variations. “Vermouth has a really broad array of applications. It is so versatile that it can be the star of a cocktail instead of sitting in the back seat,” explains Alan Lam, beverage director of NYC’s Eataly Flatiron. “The point in any cocktail is to make sure it is not overpowering or has a flavor that is all over the place.” For instance, “Whisk(e)y and vermouth naturally balance each other. Vermouth softens the more powerful whisk(e)y, and the result is a well-integrated cocktail. The applications are endless.” Those looking for a lower-proof drink that can satisfy cravings while keeping the alcohol consumption in check, bartenders are experimenting with “reverse” cocktails, which switch the ratios. A reverse Manhattan would be 2 parts

vermouth and 1 part whisk(e)y. One can make sweet alcoholic cocktails utilizing sweet liquors and fruits & juices all day. But that alone—sooner or later becomes a cloying beverage. The younger set loves their sodas. The older set needs something a little more interesting. And that’s why we use vermouth and bitters to hit our taste buds, liven-up the drink and allow the complexities to intercede. Bitters have such an established place in spirits and at the bar that nearly everyone recognizes the popular brand of bottled bitters: particularly Peychaud’s and Angostura Bitters. In a different class, orange bitters & liqueurs, clear orangehued citrus bitters with a complex of lighter-spectrum flavors that vary from brand to brand—think of Grand Marnier and Cointreau. Finally—some last thoughts on vermouth: Because it is a fortified wine, it lasts (or doesn’t sour) as quickly as typical white wine. Give it one to three months after being opened; and the best advice is to store in in the fridge for it to last up to five months. It’s also an excellent cooking wine and goes remarkably well in a risotto. In most brands, generally the green bottle is a dry version and a red bottle is a sweet. However—check the label: in Italian, if the label has the term “Bianco” it’s a sweeter version of vermouth no matter the green bottle. Always look for “Extra Dry” for the least amount of dosage of sugar. The top brands to look for include the Carpano Antica, already mentioned, Dolin Dry Vermouth, Noilly Prat Extra Dry, Martini & Rossi Riserva Speciale Ambrato, Cocchi, and the Martini & Rossi Extra Dry—in that order! Cheers!


BREWTALITY

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made my first batch of bread the other day, and it couldn’t have been easier or more delicious. A friend sent me a recipe that she found in an obscure food blog, as my friends are fond of doing if the post is beer related. I was immediately intrigued by the simplicity of the recipe as it only called for three ingredients. While other people might be enjoying the challenges of creating a sourdough starter, I enjoy the challenge of trying to incorporate beer into everything I make. I researched the history of bread and beer, and was surprised at the linked origins between these ancient creations. Beer and bread have been fundamentally entwined since the birth of civilization, sister creations that gave nutrition and sustenance to the early Mesopotamians and Egyptians who discovered the versatility of combining cereal and water. The precursor to beer was just that, cereal water. Barley and/or wheat kernels were left to soak in a pot of water until they sprouted (which we now know is caused by amylase enzymes, which convert starch into maltose). Hot stones were thrown into the pot to heat the mixture (which is referred to as a mash in brewing terms), helping starch conversion even further. Voila, that was ancient beer. This gruel was then drunk through a cane straw which filtered the

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EASY 3-INGREDIENT BEER BREAD

liquid and made it easier to imbibe. At some point, these pots of cereal soup were left out and inoculated by wild yeasts just floating on a passing breeze. The yeast consumed the sugars and fermented the liquid, giving a slightly zingy taste and pleasantly intoxicating qualities. The same pots were used batch after batch, using the same yeast that settled to the bottom of the vessel, and beer was continuously made this way. According to a theory, the watery mush that was ancient beer may have accidentally been spilled onto hot coals, drying and baking in the heat of a fire until a small, hard cake was left. This crackerlike concoction of cereal and water was the first bread, born from beer and every bit as important as its liquid counterpart. The first ever bread was made from beer, so it’s no wonder that making bread with beer has been a timeless tradition to this day. And now with the entire planet being asked to stay in their homes and quarantine, many amateur chefs have turned to breadmaking as their new pastime. With a recipe this simple, every ingredient is a star player, with the beer you choose making the biggest impact on the bread you make. While Budweiser and Guinness may be the brew of choice for many beer bread veterans, no style is off

LULU CALIFORNIA BISTRO TO-GO

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ulu California Bistro will offer delicious to-go meals daily from 11:30 am to 7 pm, beginning on Thursday, April 16. Our special all-day dining menu features guest favorites like our wild mushroom soup, signature meatloaf, pizzas, burgers and so much more. Some entrees can be ordered “family-style” for parties of 2 or 4. Ordering from Lulu is very simple, easy and cashless! Just go to lulupalmsprings. com and click on the “order here” button. We’ve partnered with ChowNow to ensure the safest, most efficient service for getting all your meals at Lulu. Just place your order online, schedule a pick up time, follow the instructions for payment, and your order will be waiting for you – hygienically bagged and

April 16 to April 22, 2020

ready - at Lulu on our “socially-distanced” entrance table. Rest assured… you’ll find the same generous Lulu servings we’ve always been famous for, in your take-out bags as well! We look forward to serving our neighbors in Palm Springs and friends from throughout the Valley. Delicious has never been this easy! For to-go listings: Lulu Calfornia Bistro 200 S Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs lulupalmsprings.com 760-327-5858 (LULU) Hours: 11:30 am to 7 pm, daily. To order, please visit lulupalmsprings. com and click on the “order here” menu tab, or use the ChowNow app from your phone or tablet, or call 760-327-5858.

limits! Here is a quick guide to the most common types of beer you can choose from, and how they affect the bread you’ll make. Pale Lagers/ Cream Ales: The clean and crisp nature of this style will give your bread a similar, light flavor. Think saltine crackers and you’ll get an idea for the easy flavor imparted. Use this beer to make an all-purpose, general white bread. Hefeweizens and Wheat ales: Using an American wheat beer in a wheat bread is a surefire way to give your bread a simple yet pronounced character. European hefeweizens will give a touch of spice, both styles are optimal for this recipe. Amber/ Red Lagers or Ales: With their more pronounced malt character and darker color, these beers will impart toasted, caramelized flavors and a touch of color to your freshly baked bread. Blonde/ Pale Ales: These brews will give you a bread with balanced complexity, and just a touch of earthy, hop bitterness at the end of every bite. IPAs: The style I chose to make my bread with. You’ll get a loaf with a more pronounced, earthy bitterness that works well if adding additional ingredients like herbs, cheese, or chili peppers to your bread. Brown Ales/ Porters/ Stouts: The roasted malts in these dark ales work

BY AARON RAMSON wonderfully in bread, adding the most character and complexity as well as a darker color to your finished product. Guinness has been a longtime favorite of many beer bread makers. THREE INGREDIENT BEER BREAD 3 cups self-rising flour ¼ cup granulated sugar 12 ounces beer Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Coat a loaf pan with cooking spray. Pour your flour and sugar into a medium mixing bowl, pour a bottle or can of beer over the top of it. Use a wooden spoon to mix and fold until the batter is fully combined; it will be thick. Spoon into loaf pan and bake for 45 minutes. Remove from the oven and let your bread cool for 10-15 minutes. Flip your pan over to remove the loaf, and cut into slices. Beer bread can be that easy! The texture is dense and spongy. The flavor reflects the beer you chose, but will always be grainy and lightly sweet. Add jalapenos and cheddar cheese, rosemary and olive oil, or even sundried tomatoes and finely diced garlic. It’s your bread, do what you want with it, and enjoy!

GOOD GRUB

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April 16 to April 22, 2020

SCREENERS

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No. 417

‘VIRUS FLICKS’ FROM THE PAST 1

995 was a good year for virus movies that were predictive, prescient and borderline prophetic in many unintended ways to our current pandemic. INVASION (1995) “Civilization crumbles when we need it most.” Ahead of it’s time, this alien invader movie was accurate in identifying the quickly spreading, soul stealing illness as a virus from an unknown origin after the crash of a space station. This is the fourth reboot of Don Siegel’s 1956 cult classic, “The Invasion of the Body Snatchers”

which was a not so thinly veiled metaphor about the dangers of communism and the McCarthy era’s resulting hysteria. What works best about this version and the thing that makes it relevant, is the explanation and visualization of how viruses replicate and spread. The scenes visualizing the virus cells in the body of the movie and again in the end credits are as accurate as anything we are seeing in the news. Oliver Hirschbiegel’s film does not offer us any help in defeating the COVID-19 virus, but is does ask questions about the nature of mankind and civilization itself. Nicole Kidman plays a Washington, DC psychiatrist whose young son is infected and may hold the secret of stopping this alien invasion. Daniel Craig plays her doctor boyfriend. “The Invasion” is not a great film, but it has slick look, a couple of brief action sequences and an unsettling relevance on several levels—especially the fear factor. And Kidman has never looked better. DVD. Warner Bros. RESTORATION (1995) “Fear is our greatest enemy and hop our greatest weapon.” Not a virus movie per se, but the Black Plague plays a significant part of the plot that is essentially the story of one man’s (Robert Downey, Jr.) journey through the light and dark or 1660s England when Charles II was restored to the English throne ending

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Oliver Cromwell’s bleak puritanical rule. It was a time scientific discovery, artistic experiment and overt sensuality. It was also a time of natural disasters like the Bubonic Plague and Great London Fire Science was battling superstition. It’s interesting to see the bird-beaked masks that were worn for protection learn of the inserted organic ingredients. Michael Hoffman’s movie is most remembered for its lavish art direction and production design (not the same thing) are eye-popping and painterly from the opening scene to final fade out. It’s hard not to think of Caravaggio (a painter of the era). The movie won two Oscars© for Art Direction and Costume Design.

BY ROBIN E. SIMMONS

NEW BLU FOR THE HOME THEATER: LIKE A BOSS Best friends Kia and Mel (Tiffany Haddish and Rose Byrne) are living their best lives, running their town own cosmetics company until a villainous beauty mogul (Salma Hayek) conspires to steal it under them. When her devious plan drives the besties apart, Mia and Mel learn that sticking together is the only way to turn the tables and take their company back. The beauty business is about to get ugly in this thankfully short, lame, derivative “comedy.” The limited extras are standard fare. Paramount. robin@coachellavalleywekly.com


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SAFETY TIPS

FROM THE CHIEFS CORNER

April 16 to April 22, 2020

BY FIRE CHIEF SAM DIGIOVANNA

APRIL IS NATIONAL CANCER CONTROL MONTH! • Find cancer earlier • Improve cancer treatments • Help more people survive cancer • Improve the quality of life for people who have cancer Its Goal: The goal of cancer control is to reduce the cancer burden. That means preventing cancer and decreasing how cancer impacts a community, family, and individual. Understanding Cancer Burden: Cancer burden looks at the number of cancer cases and the effects of cancer

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ancer control is a term often used by the media, medical centers, and organizations like the American Cancer Society. But it’s sometimes hard to describe what it is. That’s why we’re explaining what cancer control is, what its goals are, what cancer control programs do, and what the results of successful cancer control look like. What It Is: Cancer control focuses on

reducing the number of people who get cancer, have complications from it, and die from it. It uses approaches that have been tested through research to control the number of cancer cases as well as the effects of cancer. Cancer control programs work to find and use the most effective ways to: • Prevent cancer • Reduce the risk of cancer

in a country, community, family, or one person. Comprehensive cancer control programs look at cancer burden in a whole population or group, while also taking into account the needs of different people in the group that have certain risk factors for cancer. Source: Center for Disease Control See the full report and a cancer control directory here: www.nwfccc.org/cdc-news-what-iscancer-control Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

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April 16 to April 22, 2020

HADDON LIBBY

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ei-ji is the Chinese word for crisis. The written characters for this word are those representing danger and opportunity. While attentions of late have been on the clear and present danger, we also need to consider the opportunities presented to us due to this global economic catastrophe. Whenever there is a major shock to the system like that brought on by COVID-19, the destruction created affords the opportunistic and forward thinking a chance to benefit in ways previous unavailable. Looking at the Coachella Valley, the crisis will have a larger negative impact on most businesses and workers than many parts of the country. Not only did we lose our most lucrative time of year for businesses, but our economic problems should continue after we return to whatever version of normalcy is on the other side. The new normal will most likely mean lower tourism for next season. It is difficult to imagine that gatherings of large groups like those at Coachella or the McCallum returning at all let alone to preCOVID-19 attendance levels until people feel safe again. So where are the opportunities? To those with good jobs and investment accounts, opportunities will be plentiful whether shopping at the store or investing for the future.

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WEI-JI! A TIME OF DANGER; A TIME OF OPPORTUNITY

What about those who are now, or will be, broke? First, know that you are not alone. People at every level of the socio-economic ladder have been hurt. Between the relief being offered now and stimulus that can be expected, you will make it through. As the state has suspended evictions from rentals and most banks are letting mortgage holders put current payments to the end of the loan term, your largest expense is covered for now. State orders preventing utilities from cutting off service means that you have another payment that can be deferred until the world reopens. While government relief in the form of an enhanced unemployment check and one-time relief checks of $1,200 per person and $500 per child may not be a lot, it is enough to keep you going. Use this window of time to think about what you really want to do once the world reopens. What is the opportunity that you can get excited about and want to devote your energies toward? If you could use more education to advance your career, now might be a good time to get student loans to go back to school. Whatever the future world looks like, people with an education will have better opportunities than the less educated. If you have a kitchen, consider starting a home-based food business. Rules have been

DALEGRIBOW ON THELAW

LEGAL REPRESENTATION OF THE INJURED & CRIMINALLY ACCUSED

LAW IN THE TIME OF COVID-19

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e are all homebound with this Corona-19 business, which hopefully will reach its zenith this week. For the first time since school's summer break, we have free time on our hands. For those of us that are lawyers, our courts have been closed for weeks so we to can now do the things we have been putting off. We all worry about when we can go back to work. Some days you are the pigeon and some days you're the statute. That statute day is coming sooner than later. Many of our friends are taking advantage of this free time with some reading or studying things that they never had time for. I previously wrote about some Legal Terms and today I will attempt to teach you about some more. If you are ever unfortunate enough to be involved in a legal case here are some of the things that will come up in all likelihood. Impeachment: The process of calling a witness's testimony into doubt. For example, if the attorney can show that the witness may have fabricated portions of his testimony, the witness is said to be "impeached;" Interrogatories: A form of discovery consisting of written questions to be answered in writing and under oath. Issue: The disputed point between parties in a lawsuit; Jury: The group of persons selected to hear the evidence in a trial and render a

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relaxed over the last few years making it far easier to start your culinary enterprise. Think about opening up a storefront on eBay, Amazon or another online retail hub. Selling online is a great way to raise cash and get rid of unused objects. Do this for your neighbors as well and make commissions for your efforts. If you have a creative skill, consider making your own items for resale such as jewelry, t-shirts, or some other creation. Use this time when you are stuck inside to start opportunities that explore your creative side. Whatever plan you come up with, write it down. Set up timelines and goals to achieve that which you strive for. Use this time to network with people whom you have not talked to in a while. If you are looking for work coming on the other side, let them know. Your situation is not unique, and many people will assist if you only ask.

While COVID-19 disrupted all of our lives, you can choose to be a victim or a survivor. While survival and future prosperity may come in a different form that you had originally planned, there are good opportunities that you can create. If you are having a hard time figuring out what your opportunity might be, talk to those who know you the best and get their ideas. Once you have figured out an approach, local resources like SCORE, the Women’s Business Center and your city business development officer are people to reach out to for guidance or introductions to those who can help. Haddon Libby is the Founder and Managing Partner of Winslow Drake Investment Management. To reach Haddon, email Hlibby@WinslowDrake.com or visit www.WinslowDrake.com.

verdict on matters of fact. Jury instructions: A judge's directions to the jury before it begins deliberations Lawsuit: A legal action started by a plaintiff against a defendant based on a complaint that the defendant failed to perform a legal duty which resulted in harm to the plaintiff. Mistrial: An invalid trial, caused by fundamental error. When a mistrial is declared, the trial must start again with the selection of a new jury. Motion: A request by a litigant to a judge for a decision on an issue relating to the case. Motion in Limine: A pretrial motion requesting the court to prohibit the other side from presenting, or even referring to, evidence on matters said to be so highly prejudicial that no steps taken by the judge can prevent the jury from being unduly influenced. Opinion: A judge's written explanation of the decision of the court. Oral argument: An opportunity for lawyers to summarize their position before the court and also to answer the judges' questions. Peremptory challenge: Each side can exclude a certain number of prospective jurors without cause or giving a reason. Plaintiff: A person or business that files a formal complaint with the court. Pleadings: Written statements filed with

the court that describes a party's legal or factual assertions about the case. Pro per: A slang expression sometimes used to refer to a pro se litigant. Pro se: Representing oneself. Serving as one's own lawyer. Record: A written account of the proceedings in a case, including all pleadings, evidence, and exhibits submitted in the course of the case. Sequester: To separate. Sometimes juries are sequestered from outside influences during their deliberations. Service of process: The delivery of writs or summonses to the appropriate party. Settlement: Parties to a lawsuit resolve their dispute without having a trial. Statute of limitations: The time within which a lawsuit must be filed or a criminal prosecution begun. Subpoena: A command, issued under a court's authority, to a witness to appear and give testimony. Subpoena duces tecum: A command to a witness to appear and produce documents. Temporary restraining order: Akin to a preliminary injunction, it is a judge's shortterm order forbidding certain actions until a full hearing can be conducted, often referred to as a TRO. Testimony: Evidence presented orally by witnesses during trials or before grand juries. Tort: A civil, not criminal, wrong. A negligent or intentional injury against a person or property, with the exception of breach of contract. Transcript: A written, word-for-word

record of what was said, either in a trial or a hearing. Unlawful detainer action: A lawsuit brought by a landlord against a tenant to evict the tenant from rental property usually for nonpayment of rent. Venue: The geographic area in which a court has jurisdiction. A change of venue is a change or transfer of a case from one judicial district to another. Verdict: The decision of a trial jury or a judge that determines the guilt or innocence of a criminal defendant, or that determines the final outcome of a civil case. Voir dire: Jury selection process of questioning prospective jurors, to ascertain their qualifications and determine any basis for challenge. Witness: A person called upon by either side in a lawsuit to give testimony before the court or jury. DALE GRIBOW - Representing the injured and criminally accused "TOP LAWYER" - CA's Prestige Magazine, Palm Springs Life (PI/DUI) 2011-20 "TOP LAWYER" - Inland Empire Magazine 2016- 2019 PERFECT 10.0 AVVO Peer Rating "DON'T DRINK AND DRIVE OR TEXT AND GET A DUI OR ACCIDENT... CALL A TAXI, LYFT OR UBER....THEY ARE A LOT CHEAPER THAN CALLING ME"


SWAG FOR THESOUL

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April 16 to April 22, 2020

BY AIMEE MOSCO

LETTING OLD PATTERNS GO

“It is our choice what we create next. We can choose to stay stuck by continuing to hold onto old patterns that prompt us to create what no longer honors us, or we move forward and let go of old patterns, circumstance and behaviors.” Daily Agreements, Guidelines & Intentions, by Aimee Mosco and Donald L. Ferguson, pg. 112 e human beings are energetically complex in that we have multiple layers of energy that comprise our totality. These layers form an energy field which becomes a defined workspace for your soul. The physical body represents one layer and one very unique part of your energy field. Your body sits at the center of your soul’s workspace and has a dramatically different job than all of the other layers. Your soul transmits energy communications and commands through the different layers of your energy field and unless your psychic senses are finely tuned enough to translate these messages, it is likely you are not aware of their nature or that you are receiving a transmission at all. The best way for your soul to communicate an urgent message to you so that you receive it in a conscious way is through your body. Energetic messages that come through your body as pain or dysfunction are not ones that you can easily ignore. Even if you don’t have a clear understanding of what the message is, you are aware that something has changed by your body’s reaction. When you look at your physical body as a message delivery center for your soul, your sensations and physical ailments often take on a different meaning. Exploring this perspective, you may find that your soul is telling you through improper body function that it’s time to let go of something that is blocking your growth.

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So, how do you let go? If you are getting error messages in the form of ill health or pain, then it’s time to first consider building a more conscious relationship with your soul. As you gradually grow more connected with your inner self, awareness and clarity follow. When you make an agreement with this inner part of you to let go of old beliefs, thoughts and emotions as a follow up to gaining clarity on body messages, this agreement will initiate and affect clearing in multiple layers of your energy field. This will also open you to receiving new, fresh energies that replace what you have cleared – which is how “healing” and new outcomes materialize. In my pursuit to help humanity to stay clear and aligned with higher good, I invite you to join Facebook group Evolve through Love hosted by Elizabeth Scarcella, BB Ingle and me. Go to facebook.com/groups/ evolvethroughlove and share with us your experiences. Aimee Mosco is an Author, Intuitive Channel, Global Ambassador for SpeakingfromOurHearts.org, and CoFounder of Intentional Healing Systems, LLC. Aimee’s passion for helping others inspired her book “Gratitude + Forgiveness x (LOVE) = Happiness”. For more information, find Aimee at www.ihsunity.com

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April 16 to April 22, 2020

MIND,BODY & SPIRIT

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BY BRONWYN ISON

OUR COMMON THREAD

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hat I have learned, with all that is occurring in our world, we share a common thread. Not just one but many. First, we're all in this together. Secondly, we’re all in quarantine. Thirdly, each person is experiencing uncertainty. Lastly, I believe we have a strong desire to remain healthy and well. My therapist told me, the most common thread she's recognizing with her patients is anxiety, stress, uncertainty and depression. Trust me... this is not to be a Debbie Downer, rather I'm sharing the good news. Good news? Yes, that if you are experiencing these feelings, you are not alone, you are human. As a wellness advocate and voice for our community, I’m here to help! Yes, I can help you because I share some of these feelings too. Let's make a wellness plan together and make each other accountable... you'll need a piece of paper and a pen. While I will not have the ability to check on you, find an accountability partner. Your spouse, a best friend or the entire family. Here is a check list to get you started. 1. Establish a morning routine (if you don't have one already) Dedicate time to prayer, a devotional or a positive affirmation. Reflect on it throughout your day. Place it on sticky note or someplace visible to you. 2. Establish an exercise routine. Yoga,

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walking, hiking or swimming. Just Move! This is the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors before it gets too warm. 3. Hydrate. Make sure you have plenty of liquids. (Preferably water) Avoid soda, high sugar fruit juices and alcohol. 4. Eat healthy. Resist high carbs and sugar. These soul good feeling foods can make you sluggish in the long run. Plus, they are weight gainers. 5. Read and/or watch something that is inspirational or educational. Feed your soul and mind with goodness. 6. Journal your thoughts. Make a vision board of what your next 90-days may look like to you. This is the perfect time to reinvent yourself or start something new. (You can’t say that you don’t have time.) 7. Call a friend and let them know that you are thinking of them. Encourage them and send kind thoughts and words their way. I can almost guarantee that if you are feeling frustrated, depleted, depressed or uncertain… it’s time to get up, move and make some healthy changes for yourself. Bronwyn Ison is the owner of EvolveYogaOnline.com and BetterForItNow. com. Follow Bronwyn on FB, Bronwyn Ison and Instagram, Bronwyn_Ison or evolveyogaonline Also, on FREE yoga classes on YouTube, SUBSCRIBE for FREE.

FREEWILL ASTROLOGY

WEEK OF APRIL 16

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Aries artist Vincent van Gogh got started on his life’s work relatively late. At ages 25 and 26 he made failed attempts to train as a pastor and serve as a missionary. He didn’t launch his art career in earnest until he was 27. During the next ten years, he created 860 paintings —an average of 1.7 every week—as well as over 1,200 additional works of art. For comparison, the prolific painter Salvador Dali made 1,500 paintings in 61 years. During the coming twelve months, Aries, you could achieve a van Gogh-like level of productiveness in your own chosen field—especially if you lay the foundations now, during our stay-athome phase. TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Most authors do their writing while sitting on chairs in front of desks. But long before there were standing desks, poet Rainer Maria Rilke and children’s author Lewis Carroll wrote their books while standing up. Novelist Henry James had eight desks, but typically paced between them as he dictated his thoughts to a secretary. And then there have been weirdoes like poet Robert Lowell and novelist Truman Capote. They attended to their craft as they lay in their bed. I suggest you draw inspiration from those two in the coming weeks. It’ll be a favorable time to accomplish masterpieces of work and play while in the prone position. GEMINI (May 21-June 20): While sleeping, most of us have over a thousand dreams every year. Many are hard to remember and not worth remembering. But a beloved few can be life-changers. They have the potential to trigger epiphanies that transform our destinies for the better. In my astrological opinion, you are now in a phase when such dreams are more likely than usual. That’s why I invite you to keep a pen and notebook by your bed so as to capture them. For inspiration, read this testimony from Jasper Johns, whom some call America’s “foremost living artist”: “One night I dreamed that I painted a large American flag, and the next morning I got up and I went out and bought the materials to begin it.” (Painting flags ultimately became one of Johns’ specialties.) CANCER (June 21-July 22): Ford Madox Ford (1873–1939) was a renowned author who wrote The Good Soldier, a novel that has been called “one of the 100 greatest novels of all time.” Yet another very famous author, Henry James (1843–1916), was so eager to escape hanging out with Ford that he once concealed himself behind a tree so as to not be seen. You have astrological permission to engage in comparable strategies during the coming weeks. It won’t be a time when you should force yourself to endure boring, meaningless, and unproductive tasks. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): I hope that during the coronavirus crisis you have been entertaining wild truths and pondering the liberations you will initiate when the emergency has passed. I trust you have been pushing your imagination beyond its borders and wandering into the nooks and crannies of your psyche that you were previously hesitant to explore. Am I correct in my assumptions, Leo? Have you been wandering outside your comfort zone and discovering clues about how, when things return to normal, you can add spice and flair to your rhythm? VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): I like this quote by the author Jake Remington: “Fate whispers to the warrior, ‘You cannot withstand the storm.’ The warrior whispers back, ‘I am the storm.’” Although this passage is more melodramatic than necessary for your needs in the coming weeks, I think it might be good medicine that will help you prevail over the turbulence of the coronavirus crisis. Getting yourself into a storm-like mood could provide you with the personal power necessary to be unflappable and authoritative. You should also remember that a storm is not inherently bad. It may be akin to a catharsis or orgasm that relieves the tension and clears the air. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Libran rapper and activist Talib Kweli says, “You have to know when to be arrogant. You have to know when to be humble. You have to know when to be hard and you have to

© Copyright 2020 Rob Brezsny

know when to be soft.” You Librans tend to be skilled in this artful approach to life: activating and applying the appropriate attitude as is necessary for each new situation. And I’m happy to report that your capacity for having just the right touch at the right time will be a crucial asset in the coming weeks. Trust your intuition to guide you through every subtle shift of emphasis. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Scorpio artist Marie Laurencin (1883–1956) enjoyed a colorful fate. One of the few female Cubist painters, she was a prominent figure in the Parisian avant-garde. She was also the muse and romantic partner of renowned poet Guillaume Apollinaire. But there came a turning point when she abandoned her relationship with Apollinaire. “I was twenty-five and he was sleeping with all the women,” she said, “and at twenty-five you don’t stand for that, even from a poet.” Is there a comparable situation in your life, Scorpio? A role you relish but that also takes a toll? Now is a favorable time to re-evaluate it. I’m not telling you what you should decide, only that you should think hard about it. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Sagittarian sculptor and architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini (1596– 1680) was a prodigious, inventive creator. One scholar wrote, “What Shakespeare is to drama, Bernini may be to sculpture.” He designed and built public squares, fountains, and buildings, many in Rome, which embodied his great skills as both sculptor and architect. Unlike many brilliant artists alive today, Bernini was deeply religious. Every night for 40 years, he walked from his home to pay a devotional visit to the Church of the Gesù. According to my reading of the astrological factors, now would be an excellent time for you to engage in reverential rituals like those—but without leaving your home, of course. Use this social-distancing time to draw reinvigoration from holy places within you or in your memory. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): As I understand the current chapter of your life story, you have been doing the unspectacular but yeoman work of recharging your spiritual batteries. Although you may have outwardly appeared to be quiet and still, you have in fact been generating and storing up concentrated reserves of inner power. Because of the coronavirus crisis, it’s not yet time to tap into those impressive reserves and start channeling them into a series of dynamic practical actions. But it is time to formulate the practical actions you will take when the emergency has passed. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Aquarian poet Jacques Prévert offered a variation on the famous Christian supplication known as the Lord’s Prayer. The original version begins, “Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.” But Prévert’s variation says, “Our father who art in heaven: Stay there.” Being an atheist, he had no need for the help and support of a paternal deity. I understand his feeling. I tend to favor the Goddess myself. But for you Aquarians right now, even if you’re allergic to talk of a divine presence, I’ll recommend that you seek out generous and inspiring masculine influences. According to my reading of the astrological omens, you will benefit from influences that resemble good fathering. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): How skillful are you in expressing what you want? Wait. Let me back up and reformulate that. How skillful are you in knowing what you want and expressing the truth about what you want to the people who might ultimately be able to give it to you or help you get it? This is the most important question for you to meditate on in the coming weeks. If you find that you’re fuzzy about what you want or hazy about asking for what you want, correct the problems. Homework: For three days, uphold your highest ideal in every little way you can imagine. Report results at FreeWillAstrology.com. ---------------------------------------Rob Brezsny - Free Will Astrology freewillastrology@freewillastrology.com


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