Coachella Valley Weekly - May 18 to May 24, 2017 Vol. 6 No. 9

coachellavalleyweekly.com • May 18 to May 24, 2017 Vol. 6 No. 9

Contact In The Desert

pg6

Sleazy Cortez

pg7

MDH Affiliates

pg7

SIP Coffee

pg16

CV Music Awards

pg26

May 18 to May 24, 2017

2

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

THE 15TH ANNUAL SPRING JOSHUA TREE MUSIC FESTIVAL

J.T.M.F. IS HAPPENING MAY 18TH-21TH Coachella Valley Weekly

coachellavalleyweekly.com publisher@coachellavalleyweekly.com facebook.com/cvweekly

760.501.6228

Publisher & Editor Tracy Dietlin Art Director Robert Chance Sales Team Morgan James Classified Manager & Nightlife Editor Phil Lacombe Features Writer Lisa Morgan, Rich Henrich, Heidi Simmons, Denise Ortuno Neil, Judith Salkin, Avery Wood Writers/Contributors: Robin Simmons, Rick Riozza, Craig Michaels, Bronwyn Ison, Haddon Libby, Janet McAfee, Rachel Montoya, Dale Gribow, Raymond Bill, Sam DiGiovanna, Rob Brezny, Eleni P. Austin, Noe Gutierrez, Sunny Simon, Dr. Peter Kadile, Bruce Cathcart, Lola Rossi, Laura Hunt Little, Flint Wheeler, Dee Jae Cox, Janet Newcomb, Patte Purcell, Rebecca Pikus, Esther Sanchez, Angela Romeo, Jenny Wallis Photographers Robert Chance, Chris Miller, Esther Sanchez, Laura Hunt Little, Lani Garfield, Scott Pam, George Duchannes Distribution Phil Lacombe, William Westley

CONTENTS Joshua Tree Music Festival............ 3 & 5 Contact in the Desert- Nick Pope ....... 6 Contact in the Desert- Sen. Gravel..... 7 Breaking The 4th Wall ......................... 7 Sleazy Cortez ....................................... 8 MDH Affiliates...................................... 7 CV Open Mic Competition .................. 9 Backstage Jazz......................................9 Consider This - Chris Price ................ 10 Art Scene - John Neumann ............... 11 Pet Place............................................. 12 The Vino Voice ................................... 13 Club Crawler Nightlife....................... 14 SIP Coffee House & Juice Bar............ 16 Screeners............................................ 18 Book Review....................................... 19 Safety Tips...........................................19 Health & Fitness................................. 20 Haddon Libby.................................... 21 Dale Gribow....................................... 21 Comic Con Palm Springs................... 22 Sports Scene...................................... 22 Free Will Astrology............................ 23 Local Business - Pure Barre............... 23 Ask The Doctor................................... 24 Life & Career Coach............................ 24 2017 CV Music Awards UPDATE!....... 26

A

family friendly global music experience in the magical Mojave, The Joshua Tree Music Festival is one of the nation’s premier family friendly festivals. An intimate festival where lasting friendships are created, the element of belonging is tangible, and the experience is real. The music is diverse, and the Kidsville schedule is action packed.

Magically magnificent art installations, a full spectrum of yoga classes, 27 different music playshops, late night Astronomy theatre, circus performers, and a World Market further inspire and intrigue. Discover your new favorite band and dozens of new friends in the shadows of the Joshua Tree National Park.

The spring line-up features the live electronic funk’n disco of Kraak & Smaak, gritty raw California soul with a heart from Orgone, the transcendent progressive intergalactic wizardry of House of Hamsa, the Korean folk rock of Jambinai (more a force of nature than a band), celebratory New Orleans high life from the California Honeydrops, Zimbabwe’s hottest export; Mokoomba, seminal house music pioneer Marques Wyatt, the otherworldly grooves of Liberation Movement, the Prince-meetsStevie Wonder soul-funk of (Joshua Tree’s own) Gene Evaro Jr. and more.

The festival line-ups are diverse. They look for artists on the rise; the wildly talented dream chasers who deliver passionate performances as if their lives depended on it. Many artists have performed here as unknowns, and now have thriving music careers, such as: Brett Dennen, the Avett Brothers, Trombone Shorty, Deer Tick, Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros,

May 18 to May 24, 2017

PHOTOS COURTESY OF JOSHUA TREE MUSIC FESTIVAL

Trampled by Turtles, Carolina Chocolate Drops, Ghostland Observatory, California Honeydrops, Greensky Bluegrass, Gene Evaro, Valerie June, Orgone and many more.

Kidsville is brimming with interactive, hands on projects happening throughout each day. Circus street shows, creation station projects, slack line instruction, music performances, free-range art and the Love Boat, keep the children inspired. Kids 10 and under attend the festivals for free, and young ones aged 11-16 get in for half price. Kidsville is fully shaded (as is the music bowl), and centrally located at the festival, within earshot of the music bowl.

The festivals (there are two each year; one in May, one in October) are cozy, community-centric, artistically infused and highly participatory affairs. They are

produced by a family of friends and funsters convinced that music is the soul of life, and that art enriches and saves lives. With just one stage ‘live’ at a time, everyone enjoys each performance together. Those ‘shared experiences’ are where you find the magic.

“This is a festival community that will take you in as a family member, and send you home with more than you came with; recharged and energized!” says Barnett English, event founder and organizer.

The desert is freedom, music is power, and community is crucial. Tap in to this magical trifecta and get your JTMF tickets at: www.joshuatreemusicfestival.com/tickets. html For the full line-up and festival info, log onto: www.joshuatreemusicfestival.com.

3

May 18 to May 24, 2017

4

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

EVENTS

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

May 18 to May 24, 2017

BY LISA MORGAN

JOSHUA TREE MUSIC FESTIVAL 2017 – HIGHER PURPOSE IN THE HIGH DESERT

I

f you have not experienced the Joshua Tree Music Festival before, I urge you to allow yourself the opportunity this weekend. Clear your mind of all that you assume about festivals – this is not one of them. Open your mind beyond what you are used to hearing – you will likely not hear it here. Open your spirit beyond your expectations and your cup will overflow.

There is a creative magic in the dirt in the high desert and perhaps because so much heart, soul and love has been bled into it’s soil from this very epicenter.

My first introduction to the bi-annual Joshua Tree Music Festival was through an invitation to be part of a community – part of a family. Those living Joshua Tree and the surrounding areas gathered, as they always do, to begin preparing for more than a music festival; they prepare the weathered grounds for a life altering event.

Clearing and conditioning the damage and erosion caused by winds and rain since the last festival, adding their artistic touches and installations, these inspired artists, musicians and neighbors join forces for several weeks, pulling weeds, building structures and pouring love into the place that will foster three days of music, yoga, education and community that families of all ages can enjoy. Add the incredibly unique and awe inspiring music that has been hand selected by Coachella Valley Music Award nominee and festival founder, Barnett English, and you are destined to have that desert magic infused into your bones.

“There is no criteria per se,” shared English. “We have all kinds of performers here and all types of genres. Basically, the performers/ bands really stand out in some unique way. I’ve been collecting and listening to music hyper-actively since I was 10, so I constantly research, listen to music, and I go to 20 plus festivals a year – I’m a music junkie.”

Edith Crash is one such artist; a onewoman band who has recorded with desert legends and is the essence of the unique

Photo by Florencia P. Marano

and independent sound crafter that English refers to in his selection process. I caught her performing at the Joshua Tree Saloon last year. Very few were oblivious to the music she, by herself, on electric guitar and drums, was bringing to their stage (we tend to be a little bit spoiled up there).

The rest of us were riveted. You could feel her freedom, fearlessness and the fire in her heart as it subtly and not so subtly penetrated your own. As her bio aptly reads, “She belongs to no one.” Singing in French, Spanish, and English, her brooding experimentalism inspired by Portishead and Jacques Brel, Crash is a vessel of folk and grunge with a soul. “This will be my second time playing at Joshua Tree Music Fest,” says Crash. “The last one was in 2015.

I always feel a very strong energy in Joshua Tree - like a shift in time and space; it is hard to describe. The silence is so deep, that you can hear the essence of the soul. It is not accident that so many musicians come to the desert; it sets your mind free creatively.

The last time playing the festival was an amazing experience, not only playing but also listening to other bands, and hanging around. There are so many things going on.

This year I’ll play on Sunday 10:45 am and I’m thrilled to have Teddy Quinn joining me on stage to share a song.” You can follow Edith Crash’s music at www.edithcrash.com and at www.facebook.com/edithcrash Music at this festival will be coming from as far as Pakistan, Peru, Columbia, South Korea, Zimbabwe and the UK, as well as showcasing talent from LA, Portland and the Bay area, but has its home-grown staples of greatness as well. Returning to the festival is Mojave bred, Desert Rhythm

Project, fresh from an extremely successful tour with rising Reggae artist, Mike Love.

Fronted by Michael Reyes and Bryanna Evaro, their past performance at the festival was pure melodic, vocal and rhythmic joy from the stage...the kind of stuff that makes you feel like maybe music can change the world. Described as a neo-roots, reggae,

funk, soul band, DRP expects a new album release in the Fall and will heading back out on tour immediately following the festival.

You can always count on great things from this band. You may or may not remember the songs after one listen, but you will never forget the way these people and their music make you feel. They perform on the Main Stage, Saturday at 1:30 pm. Follow them and their music at Desertrhythmproject. com.

Photo by Tom Fowler

Other local returns include The Adobe Collective. They return with a CV Music Award nomination and a new EP release, and promise to captivate you on Friday at 1:30 pm. Dynamic sonic velvet as a simple duo, the full band version is an experience all in its own. Follow them and feed your musical soul at theadobecollective.com.

Photo by Carly Valentine

Megan Hutch is an artist, like many others, that were compelled to follow the high desert’s beckoning and have recently transplanted themselves to the high desert permanently. She has made the most of her time here with her dark folk hymns and modern torch ballads. She is returning to the festival, after recording her first EP, Desert Rain, produced by Chris Unck at High Lonesome Studios, and is profiled in the upcoming music documentary Joshua Tree on Film, directed by Casey Kiernan.

Kiernan also shot her video of “Surrender,” from the EP. “I have always written songs to soothe my own achin’ soul just to keep the peace in my own mind,” shares Hutch.

“Since moving to the desert in 2014, I have been overwhelmed with gratitude from the enthusiasm from the town to continue writing, recording and performing. As a solo artist, I typically write and arrange songs to be played with a full sound alone on stage.

For the fest, I›m honored to be joined by Ryan Erskin, Nick Barnett of the Tremble Weeds, David Macias of Machin’, the accomplished and humble Bobby Furgo (Leonard Cohen), and Davis singing backup vocals. All of these fulfilled, year-round musicians in their own musical right, have shown incredible dedication to my songs and our set for this coming Sunday. We can›t wait to share the magic with everyone on the final day of what is to be an unforgettable weekend here in Joshua Tree! This marks my second year performing at JTMF. This festival is unique, in that it is all about bringing our small community together twice a year. Yes, indeed, there are an abundance of amazing acts from all over the world, but the local talent here really makes it shine. Everyone creates space in their lives to be a part, whether it be performing or attending.”

Gene Evaro Jr will return to the festival Friday night at 8:15 pm. This otherworldly ensemble of sound and feels with a joy breeding horn and rhythm section has toured with Elle King and Blues Traveler and will no doubt be headlining their own tour soon.

Also a returning and captivating festival favorite from the Evaro family, is Cactus Wine Experience, the dream child of the multifaceted and talented Gabriella Evaro.

Headlining as “Al Rojo Vivo” (The Red Hots), this Latin flavored wine drenched burlesque will be filled with sonic and visual color, spice and succulent fruits featuring many of the musicians performing at the festival.

For a full schedule, go to the website joshuatreemusicfestival.com. Better yet, so your life a favor and step into a whole other world a little more than an hour away and “Live/Love Like There’s No Tomorrow.”

5

May 18 to May 24, 2017

EVENTS

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

BY RICH HENRICH

MAKING CONTACT IN THE DESERT WITH UFO EXPERTS & OFFICIALS

N

ow in it’s fifth year, CONTACT IN THE DESERT, the annual epic weekend gathering of experts in UFO sightings, extraterrestrial life, ancient aliens, secret space program, crop circles, contact experiences, interstellar living, human origins and the “need to know” the truth behind the secrecy, returns to Joshua Tree May 19-22nd. In just a few short years, CONTACT IN THE DESERT has become one of the most sought after events of its kind in the world with attendees coming from all corners of the globe to join thousands of like minded researchers, experts and intellectuals to discuss the nature of truth beyond the status quo.

The event will be hosted by Coast to Coast AM’s own George Noory and Ancient Alien’s host on The History Channel, Giorgio A. Tsoukalos. With over 13 million listeners, George Noory is definitely attracting a growing audience of people seeking answers to the unexplained and in particular those seeking answers to why our government refuses to disclose the truth about E.T.’s and UFO’s in America. “We’re really committed to a serious, academic look at both ancient and modern aspects of intelligent extraterrestrial life,” says co-producer of Contact in the Desert, Victoria Jennings.

For Nick Pope, a featured guest and lecturer at this year’s event, he brings an international perspective to the conversation. Nick Pope used to investigate UFOs and other strange phenomena for the

6

British government, leading the media to call him the real Fox Mulder. Because of his inside knowledge of the UFO phenomenon, Nick has consulted on and been involved in the marketing campaigns for various alienthemed movies, TV shows and video games.

He’s a regular contributor to numerous TV shows, including “Ancient Aliens”, “NASA’s Unexplained Files” and “Unsealed”. He’s the author of five bestselling books, the most recent one being “Encounter in Rendlesham Forest.”

CVW: What is unique about Contact in the Desert?

Nick Pope: “A lot of other conferences are drab, small-scale hotel conventions. Contact is spectacular! Just the sheer number of people, must be a few thousand that come here versus two or three hundred at other events. It definitely has a buzz! The setting is also quite impressive. I might be one of the few, being from Tucson, who thinks it’s a bit too cool out! It is wonderful, though. I especially like getting up early for breakfast and walking to the cafeteria and having wonderful and engaging conversations with people.”

CVW: Does contact feel more like an impromptu college than a conference?

NP: “Yes! It is very much a campus setting and I sense that people come to interact with each other as much as they do to hear and meet the speakers. Everyone is open to sharing ideas, experiences and of course, for many, they all endure the heat

and environment together. This shared experience I think brings us all together.”

CVW: Do you find the opportunity to network here as well?

NP: “The networking here is high level.

There is not enough time for us to really spend together, though. Sometimes when I am running out of a lecture, I am thinking about what I need to do to prepare for my workshop and I cannot engage with other speakers or the attendees the way I would like to but the crowd is intellectually serious.

That doesn’t mean we all agree which can bring about some lively debates.”

CVW: Do you find a lot of diversity in the people and perspectives at Contact?

NP: “Absolutely. I think it’s because there is a bit of an expense to get to Joshua Tree, it attracts more serious types but it is a mix of New Age people or I can easily engage in conversation with a retired cop or military brass. There are a lot of colorful characters at the event.”

CVW: You have been called the “real life Fox Mulder.” How did this come about?

NP: “I worked for the Ministry of Defense in the U.K. I was a career employee and every couple of years, they moved you. In 1991, 6 years into my career, I was assigned to the bizarre cases, the so-called, “X-Files.”

The department was created back around WW2 when Air Force pilots were reporting that they saw strange things. They thought it was a German secret weapon but the German, Japanese and American pilots all saw similar phenomenon in the skies.”

CVW: Were you interested in UFOs before the post?

NP: “No. I’ve always been skeptical. 99% of the reports are aircraft lights or weather balloons but there is the 1% that we often cannot explain. I was assigned to the cold case review on Rendlesham Forest, the UK’s Roswell incident but it happened in 1980. I reviewed the witness accounts and

the documents. Our own pilots were seeing things that radar confirmed existed.”

CVW: What are the most consistent reports on UFOs that you’ve come across?

NP: “I’ve never seen anything myself, but investigating was my government job and in those reports, It was always the speed and maneuverability of UFOs. People would call in the hotline and always be apologetic about what they saw. I guess they don’t want to be ridiculed. One time, a man called in and saw some activity near an Air Force base. He wanted to know what he could do. I instructed him to report it to the commanding officer. He said: ‘I am the commanding officer!’ I have no doubt he had a trained eye and his sighting was genuine.”

CVW: Do you think Governments will disclose E.T. or UFO knowledge?

NP: “I’m seeing the term change to “U.A.P” unidentified aerial phenomenon.

That was a term I used in the UK and recently used by Hillary Clinton and John Podesta. I think governments are trying to frame the conversation differently but it is politically risky territory to investigate or claim belief.

Disclosure also presupposes that there is something to disclose. The power and authority of government comes from the projection of power.”

For more on Nick Pope this weekend and beyond: www.nickpope.net Friday Lecture 2:00PM-3:45PM THERE AND BACK AGAIN Ten years ago the British government announced that it was going to declassify and release its UFO files. The program was supposed to take two to three years, but took ten. The final 18 files were sent to the National Archives in 2016, but in an unprecedented move the Ministry of Defense recalled them before they could be made public. Nick Pope made the official announcement ten years ago on behalf of the UK National Archives, and has been the public face of this release program. He’ll tell the inside story of how the UK’s ‘disclosure’ program was knocked off course.

Saturday Workshop 8:30AM-10:15AM INSIDE THE DREAM FACTORY Nick Pope has previously discussed UK government policy on UFOs, but in this workshop he’ll deliver a more intimate glimpse inside the Ministry of Defense, giving attendees a candid picture of what it was like working on a government UFO project.

Expect not only strategic, geopolitical issues, but also the ‘watercooler moments’ that will give attendees a more revealing insight into what’s really going on.

EVENTS

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

May 18 to May 24, 2017

BY RICH HENRICH

SENATOR MAKES CONTACT IN THE DESERT, URGES DISCLOSURE

O

ne of the remarkable aspects of Contact in the Desert is the opportunity to bring some of the most interesting minds to the center stage for in depth exchange and perspectives. This year, former Senator (and presidential candidate) Mike Gravel will attend and share his knowledge of “Deep Government” and how fear plays a major role in governmental power. Mike Gravel was born in Springfield, Massachusetts in 1930. He enlisted in the U.S. Army (1951-54) and served as a Special Agent in the Counter Intelligence Corps. He received a bachelor’s degree from Columbia University and holds four honorary degrees. He served in the Alaska House of Representatives as Speaker (196566) and represented Alaska in the U.S. Senate (1969-81). He forced the end of the military draft and lead Congressional authorization of the Alaska Pipeline. He officially released the Pentagon Papers facilitating their publication as The Senator Gravel Edition, Pentagon Papers, resulting in a Supreme Court decision based on the Speech and Debate Clause of the American Constitution. He was a presidential candidate in the 2008 election. He authored Citizen Power and co-authored A Political Odyssey and The Kingmakers.

His lecture at Contact in the Desert will be A New Paradigm of Human Governance. The new paradigm is direct democracy, where citizens

are empowered to make laws at all levels of government. Lawmaking is the central power of government. Had the people been endowed with this power the government would never have been allowed to keep UFO knowledge from the people. The only way we can strip this power from government censors is to empower citizens with the sovereignty of governance by enacting the National Citizens Initiative for Democracy.

CVW: How did you become interested in UFOs and extraterrestrial life?

Senator Gravel: “I always had a latent interest but it wasn’t focused until much later in life but it was a subject I never dismissed.

When (Dr.) Kevin Barrett invited me to (Citizen Hearing on Disclosure), I decided to go. It was

A STAGE REVIEW OF “ROCK OF AGES”

“We built this city, we built this city on rock an’ roll / Built this city, we built this city on rock an’ roll / Say you don’t know me, or recognize my face / Say you don’t care who goes to that kind of place / Knee deep in the hoopla, sinking in your fight / Too many runaways eating up the night.”

– Jefferson Starship tune that once heard will forever be on an endless playback loop in the brain. Not a deep and meaningful lyric but one that most aptly describes modern history and Los Angeles Sunset Strip’s World Famous, Whisky a Go Go. The club has bragging rights in saying that as long as there has been a Los Angeles rock scene, there has been the Whisky A Go-Go. Opened in 1964, the Whisky A Go-Go has played host to rock ‘n’ roll’s most renowned bands, from the Doors, and Janis Joplin to Led Zeppelin. And what better setting for a Rock Musical than a venue known as the Bourbon Room, a fictional take on this iconic club.

Set in1980’s Los Angeles, the musical, “Rock of Ages” with book by Christopher D’Arienzo, features the music of classic rockers such as Styx, Journey, Bon Jovi, Pat Benatar, Twisted Sister, Steve Perry and more. A five time Tony Award nominee that originated in Los Angeles in 2005 at the King King Club, before making its way to Broadway where it opened in 2009, Rock of Ages, hasbeen performed around the world and its most recent incarnation can be seen at

A

unbelievably revealing! They managed to bring people together and have a Congressional style hearing on UFOs that helped me refocus.

Contact is another great opportunity to explore further the nature of why the U.S. government does not want to disclose anything about UFOs.” CVW: Why do you think our government and others do not want to talk about UFOs or the possible existence of E.Ts? SG: “It’s the nature of government- power begets secrecy. Power engages secrecy. It’s what keeps those in power separate from ordinary citizens. It’s not just government but also our military culture and the elite. When I say elite, I refer to the 1% that really controls this country, the power brokers on Wall Street, the heads of military industrial complex, the far religious right, those who control society. The agent that sustains all of this power is secrecy.”

CVW: Are they afraid how people will react to this confirmed knowledge that we are not alone?

SG: “You’ve heard the terminology ‘People can’t handle the truth?’ Well, it’s the opposite.

The People can handle more that the Elite who prop wash to protect their power. We are denied what goes on now. Other countries have sighting or even crashes, our military uses it’s power to go to other countries and grab the evidence to take it back to the U.S. so it no longer exists!

There is a “Deep Government” that exists.”

BY DEE JAE COX

the Palm Canyon Theatre in Palm Springs.

Rock of Ages, is the story of a boy, Drew (Nick Sloan) and a girl, Sherrie (Jennifer Singer) and dreams that don’t always turn out according to plan. But in the process of witnessing this tumultuous relationship, we are introduced to the L.A. rock scene of the 80’s through the eyes of some captivating characters. Dennis Dupree, (Kelly Peak) the owner of the Bourbon Room really lit up the stage for me. Peak was so authentic and personable in his role as a 1980’s former rocker turned club owner that he could have time warped back into the era and found himself at home. His abrupt and unexpected relationship with Lonny, the narrator, (Jacob Samples) seemed to come out of nowhere in the script and was a bit jarring, but otherwise it was smooth sailing for this rocking show.

Singer, in her role as Sherrie, the young and naive aspiring actress who discovers that she’s not in Kansas any more, gave an exceptionally moving performance as she finds herself forced to make compromising choices in her pursuit of Hollywood dreams. Jasmine Shaffer as Justice,

CVW: How does this “Deep Government” work?

SG: “Well, if you want to investigate, you are automatically a conspiracy nut. It’s like 9/11, which I feel is an inside job after researching all I could access and reviewing testimony. As soon as you say it, you are a conspiracy nut. UFOs are the same except it affects us all in a global way.

There are those in powerful positions, beyond the President that have control. Mainstream media is a tool of the elite to control society and culture. They maintain a code of ignorance and secrecy in order to maintain their agenda.”

CVW: What is something that surprises you most about how Deep Government works?

SG: “The UN has a global commission to investigate UFOs yet it is not funded. The U.S. makes sure other countries do not fund it either. JFK wanted to make peace not war. They assassinated him.”

CVW: How do we fix it?

SG: “I believe through direct democracy.

Representative democracy may have reached the end of the road. We need a new methodology with procedures for law and legislation that is direct from the people.”

For more information on Senator Gravel’s work, go to: www.mikegravel.com

BREAKING THE4TH WALL

was both empathetic and sultry in her role as the owner of the Venus Club. Singer and Shaffer give a heart wrenching performance of Pat Benatar’s ‘Harden my Heart,’ at the close of Act I. Superwoman, activist, Regina, (Elizabeth Schmelling) is fun to watch as she leads the fight to save the Bourbon Room and the future of L.A.’s rock and roll legacy from foreign developers and corrupt politicians.

Palm Canyon Theater has one of the best Ensemble Casts that you will find on any stage.

I absolutely love this group of talented and professional singers and dancers. They are sexy and bold and really brought the music to life under the direction and choreography of Andrea Bellato. It was a brave choice for Ms. Bellato to choose such a challenging project as her directorial debut and she succeed beautifully.

Opening weekend for Rock of Ages seemed to have a few sound glitches that affected the quality of the singing on occasion, but little could detract from the fun and excitement of a show that will leave more than one catchy tune playing on a loop in your head as you

leave the theater. J.W. Layne’s set design was exceptionally creative and served the story well. Bravo to Palm Canyon Theatre for their all around excellence in production value on this show.

Rock of Ages, is targeted for any age group, though I think that those who remember the music of the 1980’s will derive a special pleasure.

‘Rock of Ages’ is currently in production through May 21st at the Palm Canyon Theatre, located at 538 North Palm Canyon Drive in Palm Springs.

For Reservations: Call Box Office at: 760.323.5123-www.palmcanyontheatre.org Dee Jae Cox is a playwright, director and producer. She is the Cofounder and Artistic Director of The Los Angeles Women’s Theatre Project. www.californiawoman411.com and www.lawomenstheatreproject.org.

7

May 18 to May 24, 2017

LOCAL MUSIC SPOTLIGHT

SLEAZY CORTEZ A

couple weeks back I happened to be at Plan B in Thousand Palms to check out my buddies in Upper Class Poverty when I stumbled upon a 3 piece band whose name I have seen from time to time, but didn’t really know anything about. Their tight riffs and bluesy, funky orchestrations drew me in almost immediately and their influences seemed reminiscent of the eclectic stew that we know as desert rock. When I sat down with Sleazy Cortez I found my suspicions were more spot-on than I had imagined.

Frontman/bassist, Derek Wade Timmons: “I have always been drawn to the desert. My grandparents lived in Arizona and I loved visiting. Years ago when I lived in Indiana during the heyday of Napster, I was a really big Tool fan and I came across a video of them playing “Demon Cleaner” by a band called Kyuss. I was really into it and downloaded a couple of Kyuss songs. I think that was around 2000. That also linked me to bands like Queens of the Stoned Age, Mondo Generator and Fatso Jetson.

Eventually I started doing my research and realized the connections between all of these bands that I loved. Next thing you know I am at a record seller every Wednesday ordering something from the

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

BY ESTHER SANCHEZ

A CONCEPT FROM THE MIND OF A DESERT ROCK PURIST

desert and everything I found I fell in love with. That’s pretty much why I am here today. I came here to make music.”

Nick Hales, guitar/vox: “It’s so funny yet so telling. Like the average person born and raised here...I was clueless in regards to this sub-genre from my home town known as, ‘desert/stoner rock.’ Thanks to my dad I was blessed with a lot of classic rock influences and of course, like the rest of us...due to our age we are all about the 90s. It wasn’t

LOCAL MUSIC SPOTLIGHT

have all had a lot of projects over the years but I think we have something special here.

We each have our own style that adds to the flavor that is Sleazy Cortez.”

If I had a special column regarding local bands to keep your eye on...Sleazy Cortez would be on the top of my list.

Funky, soulful and hard, with some humor sprinkled about...these guys are cooking up something special and I highly recommend jumping on this band-wagon while it’s fresh.

That way you can say you knew them, ‘back when.’ sleazycortez@bandcamp.com

until I met Derek that I was exposed to and schooled about desert rock. Seven years later I am still going through his extensive music collection and learning something new every day.”

Sleazy Cortez drummer and Indio native, Damian Garcia, along with the rest of his band, began his life in music very young and has taken part in a gazillion projects since he was a kid. Garcia: “We have known each other for a while so the chemistry required for making good, original music is there. We

BY MORGAN JAMES

MDH AFFILIATES

H

ip hop group, MDH Affiliates have recently made their way to the CV Open Mic Competition, competing over the last few weeks and showing the audience just what a cohesive group can achieve. Winners of week #12 and moving on to the Semi Finals on May 17th, these rappers exude passion for their music and for the way in which they perform it. The group consists of Michael Simmons aka “Moonshine,” Ramon Chahia aka “Bounty,” and Sergio Teran aka “Reign.” Although they are from different cities, and with different backgrounds, the three became quick friends forming strong bonds over their music which they now produce themselves.

As the group prepares to compete this week and show the judges what they’ve got, I spoke with MDH Affiliates about their music and background, as well as their future goals.

MJ: How did your group form and what does MDH Affiliates mean?

MDH: “We are called MDH Affiliates because we have a MONEY DRIVEN HUSTLE and behind the game of life what you deal with is MONEY DRUGS AND HOES. The group formed about two years ago. Reign and Bounty know each other from the streets, and Moonshine became Reign’s

8

neighbor. From there it was a wrap. A good chemistry was quickly reached and the rest fell into place.”

MJ: Who are your musical influences?

MDH: “Influences for the group include: Dr. Dre, Snoop, Method Man, Mob Deep, Guns N Roses, Metallica, as well as The Doors, Pink Floyd, and Bone Thugs.”

MJ: Where did you each grow up and when was the moment that each of you decided to pursue music/performing?

MDH: “Moonshine grew up in Moreno Valley, Bounty grew up in Coachella, and Reign grew up in Indio. For Moonshine, the moment he decided to pursue music was when he was the only black kid in his

accordion class, that was in elementry school. For Bounty, it was about 20 years ago, he actually hated rap until he started doing it himself. For Reign, he decided it in middle school, and his friends laughed at it saying ‘yeah someone we know is a rapper.’”

MJ: What is the Hip-Hop community in the Coachella Valley like for you?

MDH: “It’s just picking back up and getting back to how it was when The Fifth Sun could be heard on Pocos Pero Locos on 92.3 The Beat every week. Chingon, which is Bounty’s brother, was in The Fifth Sun.” MJ: Tell me about your recent albums and where our readers can find your music?

MDH: “We have completed a mix tape album called Varrio to the Hood Vol. 1 check out Moon Lit, Inc. on YouTube.com and jangoradio.com. We are currently working on Vol. 2, which is an original production.”

MJ: What’s next for you as a group? Will you be playing shows or producing new music?

MDH: “As for MDH, just bigger and better opportunities. We don’t know where we’re headed, but we’re having fun getting there.

We are going to make videos for “Nothing to Prove” “951” and “Varrio to the Hood” and we now produce all our own music.”

MJ: What would you say are consistent themes that you all write about?

MDH: “We all write our own lyrics. Our lives, our families, and our struggles are what influence our music.”

MJ: Tell me about your performances and what sets you apart from other groups? What can our readers expect to see from you at a live performance?

MDH: “Our stage presence is about reaching out to the people. We speak for every hood in the nation. Our audience will hear the melody and rhythm of the music we compose.”

LOCAL MUSIC SPOTLIGHT

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

BY MORGAN JAMES

BACKSTAGE JAZZ

May 18 to May 24, 2017

BY PATTE PURCELL

CV OPEN MIC COMPETITION 2017: WEEK 12 JAZZ IN PALM SPRINGS

W

eek #12 of the CV Open Mic Competition 2017 at The Block Sports Bar & Grill in Cathedral City wrapped a fun filled session as 1st place was a tie and the two final winners will be competing in the Semi Finals next week. T-shirts from Brutal Bee Music Group were given away to several of our cheering fans as they enjoyed great food and Crater Lake Rye Whiskey specials! Live video feeds filled social media just like every week as fans posted about their favorite performances. Our big winners of 1st place, however, was awarded to hip hop group MDH Affiliates who decided to take home a $25 gift card to Stuft Pizza, as well as Nasty Dawg who chose to take home a $20 gift certificate to The Lunchbox in Palm Desert.

Both acts will now move on to the Semi Finals on May 17th. If either or both wins there, the act will compete in the Grand Finals on May 24th for an MTV Quality Music Video Production from Desert C.A.M. Studios/Winmill Films and award

winning Director Chip Miller, plus a trip to Las Vegas from Crater Lake Rye Whiskey, as well as an Artist Development Session from Grammy nominated Producer Ronnie King, a Promotional Photo Shoot from Rav Holly, and an artist merchandise package from Brutal Bee Music Group including logo design and 25 t-shirts, stickers and more! 2nd place was awarded to Jeremy Goodlander of 5 Acre Dream who took home 2 movie tickets from Cinemark Theatres.

THANK YOU to ALL our performers at the CV Open Mic Competition for putting on a great show AND making the environment so supportive for all of the artists involved: Christopher Guzman of Who Shot the Drummer, Moses Osmosis, Nasty Dawg, Ramon Chahia aka Bounty, Sergio Teran aka Reign, Michael Simmons aka Moonshine of MDH Affiliates, Jeremy Goodlander of 5 Acre Dream, and Joe Montes aka Cino. Also a big thanks to Johnny Carmona, our amazing sound technician. I hope to see you all next WEDNESDAY at THE BLOCK SPORTS BAR & GRILL in Cathedral City for our SEMI FINALS event! Look for coverage of this week’s event and the announcement of winners in the next issue of Coachella Valley Weekly!

SPECIAL THANKS to all of our sponsors: Desert C.A.M. Studios/Winmill Films & Chip Miller, Ronnie King Music, Crater Lake Rye Whiskey, Rav Holly, Stuft Pizza Bar & Grill, CV Weekly, The Lunchbox, Canyon Copy & Print, Brutal Bee Music Group, Murph’s Gaslight, and The Block Sports Bar & Grill.

Be sure to “LIKE” Facebook.com/ CVOpenMicCompetition for updates! ALL AGES ALLOWED. BRING YOUR FRIENDS, FAMILY and FANS to join us for excitement, music and fun of the SEMI FINALS on May 17th and then the GRAND FINALS on May 24th!!! For questions or information about sign-up, please see Facebook. com/CVOpenMicCompetition or contact creator and host, Morgan Alise James at MorganAliseJames@gmail.com or (714) 651-1911

N

ow that the season has wound down, the locals love to come out and enjoy the town without the crowds. If you’re looking for some places to listen to great jazz I’ve put together some of our favorites. This time we will focus on Palm Springs.

You’ve got some great choices. Wang’s in the Desert located at 424 South Indian Canyon Drive has a lovely little patio called “Zen”, Alex Santana (CV Music Awards nominee) plays there every Tuesday on Taco Tuesdays 5-8 pm. He does some Latin jazz and soft jazz on acoustic as well as vocals.

His easy going style is perfect for the venue.

Kevin Miller who does standards is also there frequently. Check out their site for the current schedule (www.wangsinthedesert. com). They have great cocktails including some rum drinks for $5.00 during happy hour and a nice bar menu selection.

Dish Creative Cuisine has stepped outside the box this season and presented a show “Keisha D’s Juke Joint at the Speakeasy” and she’s packing them in. Keisha D (CV Music Awards nominee) and band start at 9:30 on Saturday nights. She’s had celebrity drummer Alvin Taylor (this year’s CV Music Awards Lifetime Achievement recipient) who sat in with her and the buzz around town is that Keisha D has some big things in her future. Located at 1107 N. Palm Canyon Drive it is the hot place to be on Saturday nights.

Keisha is also performing at the Hyatt Hoo Doo Lounge from 7-10 on the patio.

The Hoo Doo is situated on Palm Canyon and a lush outdoor seating area makes it a great place to hang out. The address is 285 N. Palm Canyon Drive in Palm Springs.

Rose Mallett is at the Purple Room every Tuesday from 6:30 to 9:30. This is a nice small room with a stage. Rose never disappoints with her bluesy style. It’s located at 1900 E.

Palm Canyon Drive. Thursday Sharon Sills takes the stage.

Eve Holmes will be performing at AJ’s on Tuesday, May 23rd with pianist Barney McClure and Thursday, June 8 with Bill Marx and Doug Mc Donald on guitar. The hours are 7 to 10 pm. She performs standards and Latin jazz. It’s located at 36200 Date Palm Drive.

Shanghai Reds located at 235 South Indian Canyon Drive continues to have some of the best jazz and blues in the desert. Along with a great menu and large cocktails, Smooth Brothers (CV Music Awards nominee), Barry Bond Blues Band and others keep the joint jumping. There’s dancing as well Thursday through Sunday.

Woody’s Palm House located at 450 South Palm Canyon Drive continues to offer live jazz and blues music 7 days a week.

Sundays there is a jazz brunch from 11-2.

Then jazz from 6-10 with John Carey (CV Music Awards nominee)and friends.

Mondays are Motown, Tuesdays there’s jazz sax, Wednesdays it’s Yve Evans Blues band, Thursdays its jazz or blues, Friday it’s Rose Mallett (CV Music Awards nominee) one of the desert’s favorites and Saturday’s it’s Stanley Butler Blues band.

360 North another small cozy restaurant/ club offers jazz as well. Tuesdays it’s jazz guitar with Doug McDonald, Wednesday’s Michael D’Angelo croons the favorites, Thursdays its Mike Costley, Fridays it’s Pat Rizzo and Dennis Michaels on sax and keyboard, Saturday’s Mikole Karl and Sunday Darci Daniels and Reggie Vision on sax. Located at 360 North Palm Canyon Drive.

As you can see there is plenty to do during the off season so get out and enjoy some live jazz from some of these great artists.

9

May 18 to May 24, 2017

CONSIDER THIS

CHRIS PRICE

W

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

10

BY ELENI P. AUSTIN

“STOP TALKING” (OMNIVORE RECORDINGS)

e don’t waste time, we don’t like to wait, me and my friends are always fashionably late/But we showed up just in time for the end of the world, just in time for the end of the world.”

That’s Chris Price offering a gently flippant response to apocalyptic end times on his song “Just In Time.”

Chris’ musical education began in the womb. Born in 1984, Kristian Price Perez grew up in Miami, Florida, the eldest son of Betsy and Rudy Perez. His dad was a Grammy Award winning producer and songwriter and Chris grew up with a recording studio literally under his bedroom.

Aside from his dad, his earliest musical inspirations came from a Jackson 5 anthology CD and the first disc of the Beatles’ White Album. (He finally checked out the second disc during his teen years). He began playing piano as a toddler and taught himself guitar at age 17. A good friend had left her guitar and amp at his house, and he placed the guitar on his lap and figured out chords on the fretboard the same way he would with a piano. To this day, he plays guitar, and any string instrument using the same unorthodox method.

Chris was just a kid when he formed his first band, The Dropouts. Not so much a band as a duo, with Chris on keys and his pal Boz on didjeridoo (!) By his teens he had expanded his musical horizons exponentially. Of course the rest of the Beatles oeuvre, (specifically Abbey Road) blew his mind, along with singersongwriters like Nick Drake, Harry Nilsson, Emitt Rhodes and John Martyn. He was also inspired by disparate styles like Brazilian Psychedelia, Free Jazz, Bossa Nova as well as bands like the Kinks and Big Star.

At Miami Beach Senior High Chris played in the school’s Rock Ensemble. He formed a musical partnership with fellow ensembleites, Fernando Perdomo and Roger Houdaille.

As Dreaming In Stereo, the trio self-released an EP. Fernando went on to another project and Chris and Roger returned as Monkeypox.

The band mined British Invasion bands as inspiration and invented an elaborate faux history that rivaled Spinal Tap. A wildly prolific combo, they released three LPs, five singles and a feature-length film and soundtrack.

In 2005, Chris began collaborating with his

“

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

younger brothers, Mikey and Corey as well as drummer Alex Ibanez. They simply called their band Price. The four-piece received a lot of buzz, they quickly signed with Geffen Records and relocated to Los Angeles.

Acclaimed producer Tony Berg (Peter Gabriel, Michael Penn, Van Morrison), signed on and they went to work crafting an album. By 2006 Price earned a feature spot at SXSW. Two Price songs even made it on to soundtracks, “Blonde Ambition” and “Nancy Drew,” respectively. But the full-length album never saw the light of day. Price and Geffen Records parted company.

Next Chris hooked up with ex-Rooney guitarist Taylor Locke for his project, Taylor Locke & The Roughs. They released two well-received albums, Grain & Grape and Marathon, but by early 2012 he was back on a solo path. His next opportunity came when his Blackberry was stolen.

Screwing around with his new i-phone, he recorded a song, struck by the sound quality, he downloaded a four-track app and decided to record an entire album on his phone. The result, Homesick, was released in 2012 and received glowing reviews. Around this time he met a couple of musical idols, Linda Perhacs and Emitt Rhodes.

Linda, who recorded the Folk/Psych masterpiece Parallelograms in 1970, was coaxed into the recording studio after a 44 year absence. Chris produced that album, entitled The Sound Of All Things Natural.

Emitt had been a wunderkind, he began making music as a teenager in the mid ’60; first with the Merry-Go-Round, then as a solo artist. He recorded three solo albums in the early ‘70s, writing and playing everything himself in a studio he built in his parents’ backyard in Hawthorne. Soured by execrable experiences with the record industry, he walked away from performing and recording his own music. Introduced by a mutual friend, Chris had hoped Emitt would produce Price.

Those plans never came to fruition, instead, a friendship blossomed.

Chris played his own songs for him, but was respectful of Emitt’s boundaries. One day Emitt surprised him with lyric sheets and chord changes for about 20 songs. Chris encouraged Emitt to record the songs in his long-dormant backyard studio. A surfeit of well-known L.A. musicians lent a hand and Rainbow Ends arrived in early 2016 to unanimous acclaim.

Even in the midst of producing, Chris made time to create his own music, by 2016 he had amassed over 30 songs. Winnowing them down to 14, he returned to the studio, self-producing what would become his newly released sophomore solo effort, Stop Talking.

The album opens tentatively with the title track. Hazy loops and pinging sonar effects connect with spiraling guitar and staccato percussion. Jittery lyrics equivocate between the desire for instant gratification; “There’s more to life than being next to grace, I gotta cut to the chase,” and the realization that patience yields bigger rewards.

Three tracks time travel to an era when the intersection of Soft Rock and Soulful R&B wasn’t so incongruous. On “Hi-Lo” sweet

acoustic arpeggios lap over a languid melody.

Chris’ mien is melancholy as he reluctantly agrees to a break-up. Thumpy drums and ticklish keys are added to the mix as his falsetto vocals echo Marvin Gaye and Hall & Oates in equal measure. His acquiescence seems in question when he makes this impassioned plea; “I can’t turn away, till you turn around, Darling walk away don’t you make a sound.”

40 years ago, the shimmery Soul of “Sigh” could sandwich comfortably between the Rolling Stones’ “Angie,” and the Manhattans’ “Kiss And Say Goodbye.” Chris wears his heartbreak on his sleeve confessing “Between the light and dark I cry, between the right and what’s left I sigh.”

Plinky piano chords are shadowed by soaring strings and shang-a-lang guitar on “Man Down.” Here Chris’ supple tenor shapeshifts from a gentle croon to a grit and gravitas that recalls Robert Lamm, original lead singer of Chicago. The melody and arrangement navigates a series of aural switchbacks that evoke comparisons to Philadelphia Soul, Maria Muldaur’s “Midnight At The Oasis,” English Music Hall music and the Beatles’ “You Never Give Me Your Money.”

Of course, the Beatles’ influence is ever present, especially on three songs, “Once Was True,” “Algebra In The Sky” and “Darkness.”

“Once…” employs a buoyant, sing-songy melody that almost takes the bitter sting from a broken relationship. Oscillating acoustic filigrees intertwine with a string section and Chris’ boyish vocals. He searches his soul offering up this brittle post-mortem, “Once I had a sure hand, if I could keep you fixed in my sights it didn’t matter which way the wind blowed/Until we had to crash land, we lived each day like it was the last, now I’ll have to live for tomorrow.”

“Algebra In The Sky” mirrors the supersonic Psychedelia of “Tomorrow Never Knows.” Whooshy guitar roar over mellotron, tape loops and a jackhammer beat. Spongy, squiggly and sticky, it slows to a tick-tock rhythm as Chris imparts some non sequitur wisdom; “But something’s changing me, something under my skin/A soft epiphany to realize the world I’m in, the cycle turns the wheel, a revolution up above/A dream that seems so real, each morning raining down with love.” Backwards vocal and instrumental effects close out the track.

Meanwhile “Darkness” folds three songs into one, pivoting from a gauzy Waltz on the verse to calibrated cacophony on the chorus.

Chris is nearly a one-man band layering 12 string acoustic and electric guitar, E-bow, bass,

chiptune music, (synthesized, programmed electronic music), and effects. His brother Adam adds explosive drum fills. On paper, it sounds like musical schizophrenia, but somehow it works.

The combined influence of Harry Nilsson, Nick Drake and Emitt Rhodes are synthesized on three tracks, “Pulling Teeth,” “You And Me (And Everyone Else),” and “One Of Them.” “…

Teeth” is a minor key masterpiece, fluttery acoustic guitar fills are tethered to a kickdrum beat. Chris’ feathery falsetto and the ethereal arrangement recalls Nilsson’s latterday gem, “Perfect Day.” Chris’ multi-tracked vocals lattice over the plaintive piano ballad, “You And Me…” The lyrics offer a carpe diem philosophy; “And the years roll on like clouds, must we waste the time we’re allowed? Don’t pretend there’s more than now, and wait for heaven to be denied.”

Finally “One Of Them” is as brutal a kiss-off as Nilsson’s pithy “You’re Breaking My Heart.”

Roiling bass lines and rollicking, barrelhouse piano runs frame this caustic dismissal, “You’re just like one of them,” Chris nearly sneers, “when I thought you were different.”

Probably the sweetest and most poignant tune is “Father To The Man.” Achingly pure and tender, it flips the script on Harry Chapin’s mildly odious “Cat’s In The Cradle.” Lowing cello dovetails with strummy acoustic guitar, Chris paints a vivid portrait of a son witnessing his taciturn father made vulnerable by old age. “Once he was terrifying, I wouldn’t dare to say a word to stand up to my old man/Now he wouldn’t dare to stand without someone’s helping hand, he says ‘go on, put me away.’”

As father and son contemplate assisted living, Chris notes “time breezes by and then the child is father to the man.”

Other interesting tracks include the lush “Contrition,” which shares some musical DNA with Crowded House’s “Fall At Your Feet” and the sly Tropicalia of the aforementioned “Just In Time.” The album closes with “Anhedonia.”

Choir boy harmonies and finger-picked guitar belie lyrics that touch on a psychological condition that is characterized by an inability to experience pleasure from normally enjoyable activities.

Produced and engineered by Chris, the album includes contributions from guitarists Kyle Fredrickson and Emeen Zarookian.

Fernando Pedromo and Corey Perez switched off on bass. Both Ben Lecourt and Adam Perez alternately pounded the drum kit, and Joe Seiders played piano. Nadeem Majdalany provided string arrangements for Kaitlin Wolfberg and Corrine Olsen on violin and viola and Matt Fish on cello.

Back in 1968, John Lennon and Paul McCartney were at a press conference to announce the formation of Apple Corps.

Famously, they each named Harry Nilsson as their “favorite American singer and group.”

Nearly 50 years on, if they could answer that question today, there could only be one correct reply, Chris Price. Stop Talking is a masterpiece from start to finish.

ART SCENE

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

May 18 to May 24, 2017

BY REBECCA PIKUS

BY THE HANDS OF JOHN NEUMANN

J

ohn Neumann, sculptor, is a major influence in the current exciting Exhibit “This.Is.Now” at Rebecca Fine Art Gallery. Born in Frankfurt, Germany in 1952, Neumann immigrated to the United States in 1957. He obviously inherited his artistic genius from his parents! His mother, Vera (Vera Neumann) was the iconic artist who created the “Vera” trademark, especially her signature silk scarfs. His father George Neumann had a family background in textiles. Together they created a fashion empire in the 1960s.

Neumann majored in Fine Art at the University of Albuquerque, NM. He was compelled to move to Italy to learn from the best -- he studied at Scuolo Politecnica de Desegno de Milano in 1974 -1975.

Upon returning to the U.S,, he served an apprenticeship with sculptor Albert Wein from 1975-1976, working with him on the Libby Dam project. In 1977-1978 he served as an assistant to New York sculptor Roy Gussow.

John Neumann has worked directly with a number of artists in fabricating their sculptures, including Marjorie Strider, Leslie Dor, Robert Goodnough, Del Geist, Clement Meadmore and Elbert Weinberg. He is also a former finisher at Talix Foundry. Neumann began exhibiting in the early seventies, and has shown his work in New York, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, New Mexico, California and Italy. He has art in private collections throughout the United States, and is also represented in collections in Brazil, Italy, Switzerland, Germany and Japan.

The major influences on Neumann’s work are Cubism, Constructivism and Abstract Expressionism. Among his favorite artists are Alexander Archipenko, Julio Gonzales, Anthony Carro, David Smith, Franz Kline and Hans Hofmann. He has recently relocated to the High Desert, where he lives with his wife & muse Fatima, also an artist. John Neumann, in addition to continually creating new sculptures and experimenting with metals and new materials, is also available for commissions.

John Neumann: Artists Reception, Sat. June 3, 2017, 5PM-8PM – “This.Is.Now” Exhibit - to June 30, 2017. REBECCA FINE ART GALLERY, 68895 Perez Rd, #7, Cathedral City, CA (760) 534-5888 Rebeccafineart.net - Open Bar, Music, Great Art.

11

May 18 to May 24, 2017

PET PLACE

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

TAMI & JOAN, FOSTER MOMS EXTRAORDINAIRE!

B

onded by their love for dogs, Tami Jay and Joan Pendley are part of a foster network dedicated to saving the lives of homeless shelter dogs. They take them into their hearts and home, providing them the training and loving care that prepares them for their adoptive homes.

In some cases, they help heal the physical and emotional scars the animals suffered from neglect and abuse. This mother and daughter team have fostered 17 dogs for Loving All Animals, a Palm Desert based animal welfare organization.

Joan first became aware of the plight of homeless animals while working at the Colmac Energy Plant located on Indian tribal land in Mecca. She was involved with the rescue of two stray dogs, Missy and Bowser, and took them to Animal Samaritans for vetting and spaying, and followed up to ensure they were well cared for. Joan wanted to do more to help animals, and she and Tami started getting involved in local rescue

MEET CRAIG This Handsome Tuxedo boy loves to cuddle and sit on your lap. Craig is just 1-yr-old, and would love to be your “fur-ever” friend. Rescued by Loving All Animals, www.lovingallanimals.org, call (760) 834-7000.

12

groups.

In 2014, they attended Loving All Animals’ Super Pet Adoption Fair and learned how fostering can save animals that otherwise might be euthanized. Joan was now retired, and suggested that her daughter, who has a large home with a back yard, take in one or two foster dogs at a time. They “team foster” to ensure that their foster dogs’ needs are met. Joan lives near Tami, and comes over several times a day to walk the dogs and spend time socializing them. Tami works full time at a local hospital, but as a team they provide excellent care and attention to their foster dogs.

Summer is almost here, and the snowbird fosters have left the Coachella Valley for cooler regions. But the homeless animals keep coming, and the need to care for them doesn’t end with the change in seasons.

Some are dumped in the scorching desert, others left behind in empty homes, and some are discarded in shelters by their

BY JANET McAFEE uncaring humans. More foster homes are needed!

Fostering a homeless dog or cat “expands the walls” of our overcrowded public shelters. Fostering provides a loving home environment for animals who may be frightened in a shelter. Fostering increases the adoptability animals as they are socialized and trained. Foster parents provide vital information about an animal’s temperament in order to ensure a good adoption. Animals that have been neglected start to thrive and become happy for the first time in a loving home. A strong foster care system is one of the key ingredients to reduce euthanasia and help the Coachella Valley become a “No Kill” community.

Will you join Loving All Animals’ team of life saving foster parents? Loving All Animals provides pet food, supplies, training assistance, and pays for all veterinary care including spaying and neutering.

They photograph and post the animals on various websites to promote their adoption, and participate in community adoption events. Dog trainers are available to help with training tips and training classes are periodically offered.

You might worry about feeling sad when your foster dog gets adopted. But consider how heartbroken that animal feels being

discarded at a shelter, alone, behind bars and afraid. Others need a place to recover from surgery or minor medical conditions.

Fostering is the perfect option for folks who travel too much to own their own pet. Foster parents can be a team, a pair of neighbors, a family with children, or a single person.

“Foster failures” are allowed if you decide to adopt your foster animal!

Joan encourages others to try fostering.

“It’s about saving the animals. When I get to meet the people adopting our foster dog and realize what a great home they are getting, it brings me even more happiness.” Tami explains, “The foster dogs are such great company when I get home after work. They show how grateful they are, and are full of unconditional love.”

Call Loving All Animals at (760) 834-7000 for more information about fostering a sweet dog. Fosters for cats and kittens are also needed. “Dogless” homes and homes with other pets are welcome. You can view their adoptable animals at www.lovingallanimals. org. As Tami and Joan will tell you, when you open your heart and home to a homeless animal, your kindness will also bring great joy into your own life.

Jmcafee7@verizon.net

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

THE VINO VOICE

May 18 to May 24, 2017

BY RICK RIOZZA

EVERYTHING’S COMING UP ROSÉS

O

ne would have to be playing the part of an ostrich with its head in the sand to miss the current parade of pink wines coming in and out of our markets and wine stores. Indeed, we’re knee deep in an eruption of rosés—and loving it!

Maybe four decades ago, the world was awash with “white Zinfandel”—a one-note wine which was primarily on the sweet side.

Heh!—and just as economically-sweet! Its sales brought beaucoup bucks into Napa/ Sonoma wine country, revitalizing the trade and escalating the area to global fame.

Prior to that, we wine elders were fairly happy with the Portuguese Mateus and Lancers’ Rosé—with their iconic “squat” & “tower” wine bottling; they were easygoing simple quaffs. By the way, those two rosés are back in the stores with just a little modernizing nip n’ tuck in their bottle design.

Interestingly, as a wine steward, I still find a remnant of the white zin folk who come in for their weekly supply, that, 1) are not aware that Zinfandel is really a “red” grape that produces very bold and full body wine; 2) not aware that a “white Zin” is in fact a rosé wine and will go-on to argue otherwise; and, 3) believe most “rosé wines”, none-the-less, are mostly sweet.

Fun stuff!

As we continue to say, Ma’am—there’s a brave new wine world out there! Today, consumers the world over have finally caught on to the dry—non-sweet—pink, copper or salmon tinged wine that’s ready to quaff at an instant any time, and, the consumption of premium dry rosé is growing exponentially. Led by the wines of Provence and followed by every winery in the universe, last year, more than 1,000 different rosés were reviewed by us wine columnists and so many more bottles are taking up our office space for tasting this year—though hardly a problem!

We’ve written often on how dry rosé

wines, either still or sparkling, are the vino voucher for any occasion, any meal, and especially to succor us desert dwellers to endure the full day sun and sustain the sultry nights. Rosé’s quality continues on the rise, and this fresh, fruity but dry wine is the perfect quaff for our evanescent spring and the increasing summertime season throughout the world.

Natives of the Mediterranean basin have worshipped the restorative powers of rosé for decades. They always contend that the best way to refresh is a glass of something that transforms the light and warmth of the sun into a delicious chilled elixir that soothes body and soul.

And now the rosé world has exploded making the pick of the pinks available from every wine producing country and made from every red grape variety imaginable.

There is true vino diversity: Provençal’s pale bone-dry, citrus-laced wine made from Grenache, Cinsault, and Syrah; Bordeaux’s strawberry-strewn Merlots; California Coast Pinot Noir with its bright acidity and soft, subtle aromas of crabapple, watermelon, raspberries, strawberries, and wet stone.

Look for Rioja, Malbec and even a Cabernet Sauvignon/Sangiovese blend rosé from Italy called Piano Piano (softly, softly) parading around in pink—a very tasty, tangy and refreshing blush for only around $10.

No doubt, we’ll be doing our share of rosé articles this spring season and as the long hot summer stretches before us here in the desert, and we look to rousing the rosé sirens that refresh with sexy and tasty light fruit flavors, both still and sparklers.

As some interesting “dry rosé” recommendations, consider these comments: 2016 SAVED “Magic Maker” Rosé, ($16): This crisp California wine, returning again this year, is from both celebrity tattoo artist Scott Campbell—with his unique bottle design, and legendary winemaker Clay Brock (Wild Horse Vineyards). This

time there’s tangerine and strawberry aromas that continue into the flavors along with their usual peach notes. Absolutely refreshing! Made in a Provençal-style with the winemakers stating, “it’s a refresher that’s perfect for everyone, including guys (who aren’t afraid to drink pink anymore).”

Mulderbosch Cabernet Sauvignon Rosé 2016 ($13) South African wines are the latest rage in the wine world (they’ve only been producing wine for over 400 years!). Look for the portfolio of reds, whites, sparklers and rosés to make their way big time in our local markets. They show great vibrancy and clean fruit flavors. I’ve got some great dry sparklers from this region to write about soon.

Made using 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, this Cab Sauv rosé is made in a richer, more flavorful style than its more delicate counterparts from Provence. Laced with notes of sweet watermelon, florals and refreshing mineral notes, this balanced wine is the rosé for Cab lovers! Rich enough to pair with heartier red meat dishes, while still significantly crisp to suit lighter fare.

M de Minuty Rosé 2016 ($19) bottled in the traditional curvy Provencal bottle, is a Vibrant, dry rosé with balanced white

peach and candied orange peel aromas that meld into the palate with a smooth, round mouthfeel. Pale in color, it’s very aromatic—but of course very dry, marked by a racy acidity and beautiful freshness.

Founded in the 19th century, Minuty is the last estate in the Cotes de Provence to harvest their grapes entirely by hand.

All of Minuty’s rosés are grown utilizing sustainable practices, free of chemicals, relying on the heat of August and episodic rain to ripen the grapes and obtain the best purity of fruit. Fitting for a proper luncheon or summer dinner party, this rosé is one of the more elegant ones out there. Here’s to pretty in pink—Cheers!

13

May 18 to May 24, 2017

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

THUR MAY 18 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Bobby Furgo & Co 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Discoteca w/ DJ Victor Rodriguez 9pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Jazz Trio w/ Francesca Amari, Bill Marx and Doug McDonald 7pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Piano Bar 6pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 CVxHC Presents: Venus & The Traps, Yoni, Corea Blue and Herbert 8pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 John Stanley King 6-10pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm CORKTREE; PD; 760-779-0123 Michael Keeth 6-9pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 The Bill Baker Show 6pm DHS SPA LOUNGE; DHS; 760-329-6787 Karaoke w/ DJ Scott 9pm FISHERMAN’S GROTTO; PD; 760-776-6533 Barry Baughn and Bob Gross 6:30pm GADI’S RESTAURANT AND BAR; YV; 760365-6633 Open Mic Night 7pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm HOODOO COCKTAIL GARDEN @ THE HYATT; PS; 760-322-9000 Chris Lomeli 7pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Open Mic 9pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760345-6466 Frank DiSalvo 6pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Punk Rock Night 9pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Karaoke 7pm LA RUE BISTRO; LQ; 760-296-3420 Slim Man 6pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Hot Rox LAVENDER BISTRO; LQ; 760-564-5353 Live Entertainment 5:30pm LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-3452450 Country Night w/ Hollywood Hillbillies 8pm THE LOUNGE, AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 888999-1995 Quinto Menguante 8-1am MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8pm THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 Desert Soul Club 8pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 A Night of Drinking Games 9pm RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 DJs 9pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Evaro Brothers 8pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; PS; 760-322-9293 The Smooth Brothers 7pm STUFT PIZZA; PD; 760-777-9989 Acoustic Live 6pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 Dude Jones 6pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 T-Bone Karaoke 8pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Anthony DiGerlando Show 6:30pm VICKY’S OF SANTE FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Robert Salisbury 5-6pm, Jersey Gold 6:30pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Derek Jordan Gregg 6pm THE WINE EMPORIUM; LQ; 760-565-5512 The Carmens Duo 7pm WOODY’S BURGER; PS; 760-230-0188 Barney McClure Jazz 6:30pm ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 DJ 8pm

FRI MAY 19

14

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Michael Lowe 6:30pm

ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Aquarium Drunkard and Black Napkin DJ Sets 10pm AGAVE LOUNGE@THE HYATT REGENCY; IW; 760-674-4080 Art of Sax 8pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 The Carmens 6:30pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Friday Night Sour Hour w/ Pink Lemonade Drag Show 9pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 DJs Spacegrave, Alex Harrington, Imdead and Million 9pm BEER HUNTER; LQ; 760-564-7442 212 Band 9pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 212 Band 8pm BISTRO 60 @TRILOGY; LQ; 760-501-0620 TBA 6pm THE BLOCK; C.C.; 760-832-7767 Karaoke 9pm BLUE BAR, SPOTLIGHT 29; INDIO; 760-7755566 DJ Double A 8pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 The Stanley Butler Trio 6-10pm CASCADE LOUNGE, SPA RESORT CASINO; PS; 888-999-1995 DJ Michael Wright 9-1am CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 The Bill Baker Show 6pm ELECTRIC SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-2281199 DJ Ceddy Cedd 9pm EL MEXICALI CAFÉ 2; IND; 760-342-2333 Cesar Daniel Lopez on the harp 6-9pm FISHERMAN’S GROTTO; PD; 760-776-6533 Gina Carey 6pm THE GRILL ON MAIN; LQ; 760-777-7773 The Myx 8:30pm THE HARD ROCK HOTEL PS; PS; 760-3259676 Esjay Jones Presents: Acoustic Sessions w/ Avenida and Hannah Mills 8pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Dance Party 9pm HOODOO COCKTAIL GARDEN @ THE HYATT; PS; 760-322-9000 Bill Ramirez 6:30pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Live VJ 9pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760345-6466 Frank DiSalvo 6pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Dana Larson 7pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Crossroads Night w/ Walt Young Blues Band 8pm LA QUINTA BREWERY;PD; 760-200-2597 TBA 7pm LA RUE BISTRO; LQ; 760-296-3420 Slim Man 6pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Palm Springs Sound Company in the afternoon, Hot Rox in the night LAVENDER BISTRO; LQ; 760-564-5353 Live Entertainment 5:30pm LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-3452450 Common Ground 9pm THE LOUNGE; AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 888999-1995 DJ Jerry 9pm

MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm MOXIE; PS; 760-318-9900 TBA 5-8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760327-4080 Mystic Avalanche Entertainment Presents: An Acoustic Night w/ Rick Shelley, Caxton, Roxie Jane and Hannah Mills 9pm PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB; PD; 760345-0222 Gennine Francis 6:30pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 Sara Petite & The Sugar Daddies 8pm PEABODY’S CAFÉ; PS; 760-322-1877 Karaoke 7:30pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm PURPLE ROOM; PS; 760-322-4422 Joe Posa 8pm RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 Machin’ 9pm RIVIERA; PS; 760-327-8311 Michael Keeth 7-10pm ROCKYARD@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; Anthem Road and Sonic Temple (Tribute to The Cult) 7:30pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Evaro Brothers 8pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; PS; 760-322-9293 Barry Baughn Blues 8-11pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; LQ; 760-777-1601 The Carmens 8-11pm SHELLY’S LOUNGE@TORTOISE ROCK CASINO; 29 Palms; Rojer Arnold & Bobby Furgo 9pm SMOKIN’ BURGERS; PS; 760-883-5999 Ron James 6pm SOLANO’S BISTRO; LQ; 760-771-6655 Michael Madden 6-9pm SOUL OF MEXICO; IND; 760-200-8787 Latin Rock 10pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 Demetrious and Co. 6pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 Wild Sky 9pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Pat Rizzo & Dennis Michaels 6:30pm TJ’S; PD; 760-345-6744 TBA 9pm TRILUSSA ITALIAN RISTORANTE; PS; 760328-2300 Julius & Sylvia Music Duo 6-10pm VIBE; MORONGO CASINO; CAB; 951-7555391 The Rick Whitfield Band 10pm VICKY’S OF SANTE FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Meet the Corwins 5:30pm, The John Stanley King Show 8pm WANG’S IN THE DESERT; PS; 760-325-9264 Karaoke 8:30pm WESTIN MISSION HILLS; RM; 760-328-5955 TBA 6-10pm THE WINE EMPORIUM; LQ; 760-565-5512 Rob Martinez and Todd Ashley ft. Lisa LaFaro Weselis 5-8:30pm

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

WOODY’S BURGER; PS; 760-230-0188 Rose Mallett 6:30pm ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 DJ 9pm

SAT MAY 20 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Bev & Bill 6:30pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Polyglamorous DJ Set 11am poolside, TSR Airlines DJ Sets 10pm AGAVE LOUNGE@THE HYATT REGENCY; IW; 760-674-4080 Art of Sax 8pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Cabaret on the Green Open Mic 7:30pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Denise Carter 7:30pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 DJs CieloHigh, Imdead, Rich Brandon and Captain OSIV 9pm BEATNIK LOUNGE; JT; TBA 9pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 Lisa & The Gents 8pm BLUE BAR; SPOTLIGHT 29; IND; 760-7755566 DJ 9pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 Gina Carey 6-10pm CASCADE LOUNGE, SPA RESORT CASINO; PS; 888-999-1995 DJ Michael Wright 9-1am CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm CHILL BAR; PS; 760-327-1079 TBA 9pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 The Bill Baker Show 6pm DATE SHED; IND; Date Shed Season Finale w/ Wild Sons, Eevaan Tre and Kanvaz 8pm DHS SPA LOUNGE; DHS; 760-329-6787 Karaoke w/ DJ Scott 9pm ELECTRIC SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-2281199 DJ Ceddy Cedd 9pm EL MEXICALI CAFÉ 2; IND; 760-342-2333 Cesar Daniel Lopez on the harp 6-9pm FISHERMAN’S GROTTO; PD; 760-776-6533 Jack Ruvio 6pm GADI’S RESTAURANT AND BAR; YV; 760365-6633 Dana Larson & Friends 6-9pm THE GRILL ON MAIN; LQ; 760-777-7773 TBA 8:30pm THE GROOVE LOUNGE; SPOTLIGHT 29; INDIO; 760-775-5566 DJ 8pm THE HARD ROCK HOTEL PS; PS; 760-3259676 Esjay Jones Presents: Global Sessions w/ David Macias and Pablo Cantua 8pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 80’s Night 9pm HOODOO COCKTAIL GARDEN @ THE HYATT; PS; 760-322-9000 Bill Ramirez 6:30pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Live VJ 9pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760345-6466 Frank DiSalvo 6pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 TBA 9pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Karaoke 7pm

LA RUE BISTRO; LQ; 760-296-3420 Slim Man 6pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Palm Springs Sound Company,in the afternoon,Hot Rox,in the night LAVENDER BISTRO; LQ; 760-564-5353 Live Entertainment 5:30pm LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-345-2450 Common Ground 9pm THE LOUNGE, AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 888999-1995 Radio Rave 9pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760-3274080 Southbound & Co. 9pm PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB; PD; 760345-0222 Hoywyre 6:30pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 Shadow Mountain band 5pm, Sara Petite & The Sugar Daddies 8pm PEABODY’S CAFÉ; PS; 760-322-1877 Karaoke 7:30pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm PURPLE ROOM; PS; 760-322-4422 Joe Posa 8pm RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 The Refills 9pm RIVIERA; PS; 760-327-8311 TBA 7-10pm ROCKYARD@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; Thank You, Drive Thru and Mistress of Reality (Tribute to Black Sabbath) 7:30pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Evaro Brothers 8pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; PS; 760-322-9293 Barry Baughn Blues 8-11pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; LQ; 760-777-1601 The Carmens 8-11pm SHELLY’S LOUNGE@TORTOISE ROCK CASINO; 29 Palms; Rojer Arnold & Bobby Furgo 9pm SIDEWINDER GRILL; DHS; 760-329-7929 Karaoke w/ Milly G 6pm SMOKIN’ BURGERS; PS; 760-883-5999 Ron James 6pm SOUL OF MEXICO; IND; 760-200-8787 Latin Music 10pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 TBA 6pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 The Bonethumpers 9pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Dennis Michael 6:30pm TRILUSSA ITALIAN RISTORANTE; PS; 760328-2300 Julius & Sylvia Music Duo 6-10pm VIBE, MORONGO CASINO; CAB; 951-7555391 DJ Hektik 10pm

May 18 to May 24, 2017

VICKY’S OF SANTE FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Rose Mallett & Barney McClure 5pm, Johnny Meza and Co. 7:30pm VILLAGE PUB; PS; 760-323-3265 Ladies Night w/ Dirty Desert Entertainment 9pm THE WINE EMPORIUM; LQ; 760-565-5512 Chris Lomeli 7pm WESTIN MISSION HILLS; RM; 760-328-5955 Michael Keeth noon-4pm poolside, 7-11pm Fireside Lounge WOODY’S BURGER; PS; 760-230-0188 The Stanley Butler Band 6:30pm ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 DJs 9pm

SUN MAY 21 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Bob Garcia 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Mamabear DJ Sets 11am poolside AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Jazz Brunch w/ Carole Hampton & Friends 11am AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 The Judy Show 7:30pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Latin Night w/ DJ LF, Richie Rich 7pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 Michael Keeth 6-10pm CASCADE LOUNGE, SPA RESORT; PS; 888999-1995 Nash with Quinto Menguante 9pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Joe Jaggi 5:30pm DHS SPA LOUNGE; DHS; 760-329-6787 Radio 60 3-6pm EL MEXICALI CAFÉ 2; IND; 760-342-2333 Cesar Daniel Lopez on the harp 6-9pm GADI’S RESTAURANT AND BAR; YV; 760365-6633 Dana Larson &Friends 5-8pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760345-6466 Ted Herman’s Big Band 6pm continue to page 20

15

May 18 to May 24, 2017

GOOD GRUB

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

BY DENISE ORTUNO-NEIL

TRY OUT NITRO COFFEE AT SIP COFFEE HOUSE & JUICE BAR

L

attes, Cappuccinos, Mocha’s, Frappuccino’s…there are a myriad of coffee concoctions available out there in the coffee world. But Nitro Coffee on tap? What in the coffee world is that? My caffeine curiosity into this growing coffee craze was soon satisfied after a visit to Sip Coffee House & Juice Bar at the Heritage Court Shopping Center in Indio.

Kerry Anderson has owned the local coffee spot for over a decade. It is a great place to pop into for a quick bite, coffee

16

drink or juice specialty, or to sit and relax, while enjoying any of the above. Recently, Anderson has added a new menu item to her list of goodies, Nitro Coffee. Nitro Coffee came on the scene a couple years ago, and is quickly becoming available at coffee spots everywhere, including right here in the Coachella Valley. The coffee is actually cold brewed coffee that is put in a keg and infused with nitrogen, then poured out of a tap. The result of this process produces a smooth coffee, with a creamy texture, it even has a head on it. It is sort of like a Guinness, without the alcohol….delicious!

Coffee drinkers can either enjoy Nitro Coffee straight up, on the rocks, with or without cream (although it is already creamy), sugar or not. Whatever way you have it, you are bound to love it! Besides

Sip’s excellent Nitro Coffee, they offer up a variety of coffee drinks, and juice specialties including smoothies, all made with fresh fruit. Sip also offers breakfast and lunch items such as their Croissant Breakfast sandwiches, Loaded Oatmeal (oatmeal, walnuts, chia seeds, brown sugar, craisins, fresh seasonal berries and banana), Burritos, Panini’s and fresh pastries baked in house daily (try a chocolate pastry with the Nitro Coffee, yum!!).

In addition to being a multi-facetted coffee spot, Sip Coffee House & Juice Bar is also the place to be if you’re into classic cars. Every first Saturday of the month, they host Car’s and Coffee, from 7am to 9am, where classic car owners and their vehicles

converge to showcase their wheels while mingling over some of Sip’s coffee treats. No doubt including their fabulous, eye opening coffee on tap!

Whether you’re in the mood for an intricate creative coffee beverage, regular cup of joe, or want to try their “wake you up fast” Nitro Coffee on tap, Sip Coffee House & Juice Bar really does have what you need to satisfy your coffee cravings, plus a whole lot more.

Sip Coffee & Juice Bar is opened daily from 6am to 5:30pm and located at 44-100 Jefferson St., Ste 302, Indio, Ca 92201.

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

May 18 to May 24, 2017

17

May 18 to May 24, 2017

SCREENERS

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

BY ROBIN E. SIMMONS

No. 265

FIGHTING FATE

NOW PLAYING: KING ARTHUR: LEGEND OF THE SWORD

We’ve all heard the phrase “God has a plan for your life.” But what if you discover that “plan” is to fulfill an unwelcome prophecy of kingship? Do you resist or go along with your apparent – and unwanted -- destiny?

Co-writer and director Guy Ritchie brings his usual energized style to this epic fantasy

18

action adventure that tries to reboot the myth of King Arthur as an origin story that admittedly plays fast and loose with history and significance. Ritchie lays on layers of cool action that sometimes further muddies the power and meaning of this ancient foundational story.

There is a strange lack of tension throughout the unfolding of this timeless story. Ricthie’s a robust director and although this muscular retelling of the famous legend is visually lush, it is a tad muddled. There’s a surprising lack of substantive drama and character development and the narrative logic is nebulous.

That said, Charlie Hunnam is a terrific Arthur. His story is traced from the mean streets to the throne. He’s kind of a Royal

Rocky in this iconoclastic take of the Excalibur mythos. When the very young Arthur’s father is assassinated, Arthur’s uncle Vortigern (a spot on Jude Law) seizes the throne and crown.

Now robbed of his birthright and with serious identity issues – Arthur has no idea who he truly is but somehow manages to survive the hard way in the back alleys of the city. But when he pulls the sword from the stone, his life is turned upside down -- and inside out -- and he is forced to acknowledge his true identity and embrace his prophetic legacy in spite of any personal feelings to the contrary. The supporting cast includes Eric Bana (Uther Pendragon) and beautiful Astrid Berges-Frisbey (Guinevere).

This great looking, fast-paced action epic will take you away to another place and time when fate unexpected intervenes and makes demands in the lives of flawed humans that may or may not be up to the task at hand.

NEW FOR THE HOME THEATER: VIXEN: The Movie This feature length animated film cleverly and artfully combines the first two seasons of the CW Seed hit series into a single uniform story. There are at least 15 minutes of all new, never-before-seen content.

The special features include a brand new featurette and two Vixen-focused episodes of Justice League Unlimited.

Originally from Africa, Mari McCabe grew up an orphan after her parents were killed by local greed, corruption and wanton violence. But Mari refuses to succumb to the terrors surrounding her. Inheriting her family’s Tantu Totem, Mari is able to access the powers of animals – anything from the strength of a gorilla to the speed of a cheetah.

As Vixen, she fights valiantly to protect the world from threats like those that claimed her family. Fans get the action sequences they expect and the characters they got to know and like in Arrow and The Flash. From DC Comics and Warner Bros.

Home Ent. Blu-ray.

Comments? robinesimmons@aol.com

BOOK REVIEW

DEARLY DEPARTED

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

“A SEPARATION”

BY KATIE KITAMURA FICTION

----------------------------------------------------arriage can be more work than bliss, which is likely one reason the divorce rate in American is so high. In Katie Kitamura’s A Separation (Riverhead Books, 240 pages), a woman finds a renewed appreciation for the man she once loved.

An unnamed young woman narrates the story. She and her husband, Christopher, decided to separate after five years of marriage without telling anyone. He has been gone for weeks and they have not communicated since the decision to go their separate ways.

One morning, the young wife is contacted by her “mother-in-law” asking about her son.

She is worried about him because he wanted to talk with her about something important, but he never called back. Now the mother is worried. She asks her daughter-in-law to find him.

The young wife has no idea where Christopher is and tries not to sound completely ignorant of her husband’s

M

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

May 18 to May 24, 2017

BY HEIDI SIMMONS whereabouts. The mother-in-law clearly knows more than the wife and sends her to a hotel in Greece where he was last in touch.

Keeping her secret, the still married young woman goes to Greece to find her – soon to be -- ex-husband. When she arrives, no one seems to know where he is. He hasn’t been at the hotel for dvays. In fact, they must move his things because the room is reserved for another couple.

Not mentioning to anyone the truth about her marital status, the wife soon gets the impression that the women at the hotel know exactly who her husband is, and he did not mention he was married.

Soon, the young wife hears that a body has been found and it appears it may be her husband. Now she must identify the body and tell her in-laws the bad news about their son’s death. She also has to consider just how much to tell the authorities about their failed relationship.

The premise of this book really got my attention. With all the “Gone Girl” knock-offs, I was excited to see what happens to this couple, especially the wife, when a husband goes missing without a trace.

The idea that no one knows the personal situation or business of the couple adds suspense to the story. And a thriller set in Greece intrigued me as a reader.

Unfortunately, this story is not thrilling

-- or very mysterious. Well-written does not always mean the pages contain a welldeveloped narrative.

The woman sharing her story is very cerebral and analytical. The character is constantly observing and judging those around her. However, she is not very introspective.

As the wife considers her relationship with Christopher, she does very little to actually find or investigate her husband’s disappearance. I kept thinking, “Ask a question already!”

A hotel desk girl and taxi driver seem to know something about Christopher, but the wife does little in the way of probing what that might be. She looks at them suspiciously and starts to believe they might be involved in his murder, but she never tells the authorities or pursues them as killers.

The wife is never a suspect and there is no ambiguity that suggests she might have killed him herself. In fact, there is no investigation of any kind into the mystery of the husband’s

death.

I did like that the narrator works as a literary translator who admits that sometimes she has difficulty interpreting meaning and understanding context. How could she understand what is really going on when she doesn’t know the language? She can only do her best to pick-up clues from eye contact, body language and intense emotional outbursts.

This psychological aspect of the wife worked thematically for me. She is emotionally detached and somewhat clueless about human behavior. Soon, it becomes clear that is one reason her husband wanted to separate.

I wanted to discover that the wife is either an unreliable narrator leading the reader off course, or was correct in her observations and possible theory. Either way it would have been more compelling and would have complicated the mystery. But neither happens.

Finally, feeling some guilt, the young woman inherits her husband’s wealth and finds that true love may not be something actually attainable.

Clearly, author Kitamura is an intelligent writer, but the story not only lacks mystery, it fails to have the emotional intensity that certainly goes with a deteriorating marriage.

SAFETY TIPS

BY FIRE CHIEF SAM DIGIOVANNA

MAY IS MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH

D

id you know that 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. lives with a mental health condition? Did you know 1 in 25 adults in the country lives with a serious mental illness?

“May is Mental Health Awareness Month and it is import we raise our awareness to this growing concern reminds Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna. We all experience difficult times and stress in our lives, and no one should feel ashamed in seeking help to manage those times.”

First responders have seen an increase

in mental health related incidents in which we’ve responded on. Many times first responders become injured and some have even been killed.

For more information on Mental Health Awareness Month, visit the National Alliance on Mental Illness, the country’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by mental illness.

Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

19

May 18 to May 24, 2017

CLUB CRAWLER NIGHTLIFE continued from page 15

JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Open Jam 6pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Palm Springs Sound Company, in the afternoon, Hot Rox, in the night LAVENDER BISTRO; LQ; 760-564-5353 Live Entertainment 5:30pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Sunday Jam 4-8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Golden Era Karaoke 4-7pm, Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 8pm-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 7:30pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760-3274080 Sunday Night Jam Session w/ Jos Burrell 7pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 The Sunday Band 7:30pm PURPLE ROOM; PS; 760-322-4422 The Judy Show 7pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Eddie Gee 7pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 The Myx 6pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 TBA 3-6pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 The Chris Gore Group Pro Jam 7pm VICKY’S OF SANTE FE; IW; 760-345-9770 John Stanley King and Trio 6:30pm THE WINE EMPORIUM; LQ; 760-565-5512 Rob Martinez and Scott Carter 6:30pm WOODY’S BURGER; PS; 760-230-0188 Barney McClure Jazz Brunch 10am-2pm, John Carey & Friends 6pm

MON MAY 22 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 The Luminators 6pm

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Bill Marx and Chris Bennett 6:30pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 9pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 Karaoke w/ T-Bone 8pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Joe Jaggi 5:30pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760345-6466 Larry Capeloto 6pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Hot Rox LAVENDER BISTRO; LQ; 760-564-5353 Live Entertainment 5:30pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8pm-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 7pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 Open Mic 7pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Industry Night w/ DJ Tone 2pm-close SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 T.B.A. 6pm VICKY’S OF SANTE FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Mike Costley’s Showcase 6:30pm THE WINE EMPORIUM; LQ; 760-565-5512 The Mighty Sweet Nothings 6:30pm WOODY’S BURGER; PS; 760-230-0188 Motown Mondays 6pm ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 Dude Jones 9pm

TUE MAY 23

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Alex Santana 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Ace Karaoke with Kiesha 9pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Singer Showcase w/ Eve Holmes 6:30pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Bella da Ball Dinner Revue w/ guest performers 7:30pm

BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 DJ and Dancing 9pm THE BLOCK; C.C.; 760-832-7767 Karaoke en Espanol 9pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 Stanley Butler Trio 6-10pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Joe Jaggi 5:30pm CORKTREE; PD; 760-779-0123 Michael Keeth 6-9pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 The Bill Baker Show 6pm FIRESIDE LOUNGE; PS; 760-327-1700 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm FISHERMAN’S GROTTO; PD; 760-7766533 Chuck Alvarez 6:30pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Drag Queen Bingo 9pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Karaoke hosted by Phillip Moore 9pm INDIAN CANYONS GOLF RESORT; PS; 760-833-8700 DJ Randy Johnson 6pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760345-6466 Michael D’Angelo 6:15pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Ted Quinn’s Open Mic Reality Show Jam 8pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Karaoke 7pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Palm Springs Sound Company LAVENDER BISTRO; LQ; 760-564-5353 Live Entertainment 5:30pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8pm-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Tim Burleson 7:45pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760327-4080 Acoustic Open Mic 7pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Ladies Night 7pm PURPLE ROOM; PS; 760-322-4422 Rose Mallett 6:30pm

HEALTH&FITNESS

BY MAUREEN FOREMAN

SPENDING TIME WITH YOURSELF TAKES DEDICATION

N

o one needs to be told that the world is loud and fast paced, that social media invades us at every pore and that time for simply listening to our own thoughts is scarce.

But being present with your own thoughts on a daily basis is fundamental to mental health. Without time alone to digest and explore the incoming data with which we are bombarded, we are left fragmented and scattered. We become a series of reactions to incoming data rather than creating our own ideas, wishes and dreams. We are unable to witness to our own growth as humans. Many of the deep moments of satisfaction and joy in life come from realizing that we are becoming who we hoped we would be. Without quiet time alone there can be no true self-reflection, no way to know where we are.

There are fewer and fewer places in current life without access to phones, or Facebook, or Instagram or Snapchat. It is especially clear when doing psychotherapy

20

therapy with teenagers who look at your as though you were deranged when you suggest turning off their phones and simply breathing or reflecting on all that they grateful for …or asking them to just sit and do nothing.

Without space to reflect, synthesize and be grateful, we run our selves down. We lose the creative spark and the empathic ear. Quiet time with ourselves feeds ours souls and grows are hearts.

So dedicate some time to yourself each day. A half an hour in the morning outside with the birds or with your coffee in a comfortable chair in the house is all it takes. You can start with a few minutes of inspirational reading or music. Have a notebook or journal nearby ...you will be amazed with what comes to the surface!

Just write it down and get to know what is going on inside you!

Become your own friend – a friend that you want to spend quality time with each day. You will never regret it!

SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 Demetrious and Co. TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 Two Step Tuesdays w/ Cinch 6-10pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Douglas McDonald Duo 6:30pm VICKY’S OF SANTE FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Mike Costley Trio 6:30pm VILLAGE PUB; PS; 760-323-3265 TBA 8pm WOODY’S BURGER; PS; 760-230-0188 John Boliver and Tony Granberry Jazz 6pm

WED MAY 24 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Daniel Horn 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Acoustics w/ Professor Colombo 7pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Jazz Jam w/ Shelley Yoelin Group 7pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Piano Bar 6pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Totally Radical 90’s w/ DJ Richie Rich 9pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 The Smooth Brothers 7pm THE BLOCK; C.C.; 760-832-7767 CV Open Mic Competition Hosted By Morgan James 7pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 Michael Keeth 6-10pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm CORKTREE; PD; 760-779-0123 Jack Ruvio 6pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 The Bill Baker Show 6pm ELECTRIC SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-2281199 Karaoke 7:30pm FISHERMAN’S GROTTO; PD; 760-7766533 TBA 6pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Open Mic Nite hosted by Josh Heinz 8pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Live VJ 9pm

S and G

PUMPING SERVICE

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

760-404-6325

INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760345-6466 Open Mic w/ Rich Bono & Poupee Boccaccio 6pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Live Music KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Open Mic hosted by Amy Angel 6:30pm LA RUE BISTRO; LQ; 760-296-3420 TBA 6pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Hot Rox LAVENDER BISTRO; LQ; 760-564-5353 Live Entertainment 5:30pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 “Sing Jam” w/ Mikael Healey 8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Golden Era Karaoke 4-7pm, Karaoke 8pm1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760327-4080 Roger & Friends 7pm PJ’S SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-288-1199 Karaoke w/ KJ Ginger 8pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm PURPLE ROOM; PS; 760-322-4422 Michael Holmes Jazz Trio 6:30pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 The Myx 6:30pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 Acoustic Sessions 7pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Mike Costley Band 6:30pm TJ’S; PD; 760-345-6744 Derek Jordan Gregg 9pm VICKY’S OF SANTE FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Barry Minniefield 6:30pm THE WINE EMPORIUM; LQ; 760-565-5512 Tony Carmen Trio 7pm WOODY’S BURGER; PS; 760-230-0188 Yve Evans 6:30pm

HADDON LIBBY

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

VACATIONLAND

W

ith summer just days away, many of us are looking for places to go to escape the desert heat if only for a week or two.

Based on hotel and flight bookings, the top domestic destination for Americans to visit this summer is the Land of Mickey Orlando, Florida. Las Vegas comes in second followed by Honolulu, Los Angeles, Seattle, San Francisco, Maui, Boston, Denver and Fort Lauderdale.

For those looking to get the best vacation for the dollar, Money Magazine recently released their Best in Travel List for 2017.

Their list compared quality, cost and value in judging 120 domestic and 230 foreign destinations.

Domestically, St. Augustine, Florida, the oldest city in Florida, came in as Money Magazine’s top U.S. vacation spot this year.

Coming in second was Estes Park, Colorado. In honor of the city’s centennial anniversary, this Colorado town has an active roster of free events scheduled for this summer in addition to their great hiking, biking and canoeing options. When there, if you get hungry or thirsty, visit one of their 200 restaurants and 37 local breweries.

Third is Bar Harbor, Maine. Despite the distinction of being in a state where the state bird is a mosquito, Bar Harbor play host to the states’ Acadia National Park. With

lobster, clams and scallops in abundance, you can even tempt your culinary tastes with Lobster Ice Cream at one ambitious local creamery.

Rounding out the top ten are Fort Worth, Albuquerque, Williamsburg, Las Vegas, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Gulf Shores (Alabama) and, surprisingly, Ann Arbor.

Travel site Escape Here published its list of worst places to visit and determined that Detroit was the worst city in the United States due to high crime rates and widespread blight. St. Louis came in second due to crime rates where one in 53 people can expect to be the victim of a crime this year.

Other spots to avoid include Reno, Cleveland, Chicago, Camden (NJ), Memphis, New Haven (CT), Stockton and Oakland.

When we look beyond our domestic shores, the Land of Tequila and the Mezcaldrenched worm, Cancun, Mexico, is the top vacation spot for Americans.

Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic comes in second followed by Los Cabos,

Montego Bay, San Juan, Aruba, London, St. Thomas, Nassau and Paris.

When Money Magazine analyzed the places where you get the best vacation for the buck, they determined that Prague in the Czech Republic was the top destination due to a mix of modern and medieval architecture as well as its rich and vibrant food scene.

Paris came in second as falling exchange rates made this destination more affordable than in recent years. With more than 200 museums and over 16,000 restaurants and a vibrant music scene, a visitor is never wanting for something to do in Paris.

The Greek island of Crete comes in third followed by Krakow (Poland) and Rome.

Other top ten destinations include Lisbon, Budapest, Barcelona, Berlin and Riga, Latvia.

May 18 to May 24, 2017

Outside of war zones like Syria, Escape Here ranked San Pedro Sula, Honduras as the worst place in the world for a vacation.

With a murder rate of 1.69 people per 1,000 and an active arms trafficking trade, San Pedro Sula is one destination to avoid.

It should be no surprise that Karachi, Pakistan is in second place on the list as this is the country that played host to Osama bin Laden for years.

Other places to avoid include the war torn cities of Kabul and Baghdad.

Surprisingly Acapulco came in fifth due to an active and violent drug trade. Rounding out the bottom ten were Guatamala City, Rio de Janeiro, Cape Town, Ciudad Juarez and Caracas.

Haddon Libby is Managing Partner of Winslow Drake Investment Management and can be reached at 760.449.6349 or via www.WinslowDrake.com.

DALE GRIBOW ON THE LAW

WHY I REJECTED 8 P.I. CASES SINCE COACHELLA FEST

I

t sickens me when injured accident clients call and I explain why I can’t accept their ACCIDENT case. Since COACHELLA I have rejected 8 Accident cases....3 were from 2016, 1 from 2015 and 2 this year. One of those two did not treat with a doctor and the other had $250 in property damage. Thus the defense argument “how could your client be injured if the car was not damaged?”

Victims focus on the injury and not on harmful factors like: admitting liability at the scene, no immediate medical treatment, seeing a doctor they have seen before, who is at fault?, low property damage, prior accidents, no insurance, not contacting a lawyer right away, social media that shows the victim playing sports for months while complaining of their injury and most importantly talking to the adjuster. It is not what the client told the insurance company but what the adjuster THOUGHT s/he heard.

We will never know the harmful things the client told the adjuster. The worst thing that can happen is learning of the client’s admissions to the adjuster in the middle of trial. The adjuster could testify the client

said they were not hurt before they hired a lawyer. The implication is that the client only sought medical advice because of his lawyer.

I focus a large amount of my practice on collecting compensation for accident victims. Today it is more difficult to deal with the deny & delay claims strategies of insurance companies. For this reason, and those expressed herein, many California lawyers are reluctant to accept small whiplash claims.

When I first started practicing Personal Injury, I would send the medical bills and the insurance company would offer 3-4 times the medicals as a settlement. Those days are gone.

Now we see $9,000 in medicals and the insurance company will offer $5,000.

That is not enough to pay the doctors let alone legal fees. Clearly there would be no money for the client. For example, a case that would formerly result in a jury verdict or settlement of $15,000 would today only draw an offer or verdict of $5,000-$7,500.

Thus the attorney has to find a way to generate money for the client and this often involves begging the doctor to cut

their bills. Most lawyers feel it just is not worth it to have to argue with doctors to cut bills in addition to arguing with insurance companies and or defense lawyers to put money on the case. All the while, the client is unable to understand why their case is not worth more money.

In March, a Monterey CC resident presented what would have been a great case, TWO MONTHS AGO...when it happened. To her credit she had Blue Cross

and went to Eisenhower, but did not have any follow up medical treatment. She also talked to the adjuster, thus another reject.

Small cases are now worth a fraction of what they would have garnered a few years ago. For the reasons expressed herein, most experienced desert PI lawyers are reluctant to accept small whiplash cases.

If you have any questions regarding this column or ideas for future columns please contact Dale Gribow 760-837-7500 or dale@dalegribowlaw.com.

DALE GRIBOW “TOP LAWYER” - Palm Springs Life(Accidents) 2011-17 “TOP LAWYER” Inland Empire Magazine Nov 2016 PERFECT 10.0 AVVO Peer Rating “PREEMINENT” Rating - Martindale Hubbell Legal Directory “BEST Attorneys of America” Selected by “Rue” (Limited to Top 100 Attorneys per state) Legal Eagle “Best and Brightest Legal Minds” by PS Life- 2016

21

May 18 to May 24, 2017

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

COMIC CON P.S.

BY THOMAS NOVAK

THE RETURN OF MARVEL’S X-MEN!

T

he X-Men are back. Granted they never really left to begin with. This month, Marvel relaunched the main title and with all its spin-offs to follow in hopes of returning the books back to the powerhouse status that they were known for a number of decades as.

On April 5, 2017, the main title X-Men Gold hit the stands of local comic book stores with its first issue. In the process, it established itself as the primary title, similar to what its predecessor Uncanny X-Men did for decades. Written by Marc Guggenheim, with art from Ardian Syaf, the title features a classic line up of characters, some of whom have also been given a new twist. Characters featured in this title include Kitty Pryde (otherwise known as Shadowcat) leading the team, with Storm, Nightcrawler, Colossus along with Old Man Logan (also known as, Wolverine) and Prestige, who fans will recognize as Rachel Grey (the daughter of Cyclops and Jean Grey from another reality.)

So what drove Guggenheim to use the characters effectionally known as the “new team,” which debuted in 1975’s Giant-Size X-Men # 1. In an interview published in Marvel’s Resurrxion Free Previews Spotlight, which can be found for free at any local comic book shop, Guggenheim said, “Well, what drew me to the book was the fact that it’s the X-Men, my favorite super-hero team ever. As for the lineup, Marvel asked me who I wanted on the team. I ended up getting exactly the group I wanted.”

Now to understand the scope of how popular the X-Men are, and how they got there, we need to go back to 1975 when Marvel gave the title one last shot before cancelling it. The title created by writer Stan Lee and artist Jack Kirby had been running reprints of older stories beginning in X-Men # 67, which was released in April of 1970 and kept reprinting old stories up until 1975’s Giant-Size X-Men # 1.

That book saw the debut of characters, Storm, Colossus, Nightcrawler, Thunderbird, joining already established characters, Sunfire and Banshee, and also marked the second official appearance of Wolverine, who first appeared in Incredible Hulk #’s 180 & 181.

Following this book writers, Chris Claremont, Len Wein and artist Dave Cockrum went back to the main X-Men title, which had reached issue # 94. For the beginning, they had the words, “The All New, The All Different,” added to the title in a re-branding, which ended up eventually becoming “Uncanny X-Men.” From issue 94 to issue 279, writer Chris Claremont and a number of now highly revered artist took the X-Men to the top of the sales charts for Marvel. They were responsible for crafting a number of storylines like the Phoenix Saga, Days of Future Past, God Loves, Man Kills, the Mutant Massacre, the Fall of the Mutants, Inferno, Muir Island Saga and lastly 1991’s Mutant Genesis. That not only saw the debut of a second comic titled just “X-Men,” it also saw the casts of the books filed into two new groups, the “Gold team”, which was the case for the Uncanny title and “Blue team” in the new title. But despite this new spin on the format for the X-Men, it also signaled Claremont’s departure, as he left X-Men after issue 3.

After Claremont’s exit, the line went through a number of great writers including, but not limited to, Scott Lobdell, Fabian Nicieza, Joe Kelly, Grant Morrison, Joss Whedon and Mike Carey. They all kept the books exciting and entertaining. By this time it wasn’t just Uncanny X-Men and X-Men fans could find on the shelves, as there were other team books like The New Mutants, which ended up becoming X-Force, X-Factor, Excalibur and solo titles Wolverine, Cable and X-Man. At the same time Marvel, was cashing in on the popularity of not just the X-Men, but also books from the Spider-Man line as well. And released a

22

slew of merchandise that most fans associate the 1990s with. This included everything from toys and cartoons to clothing and school supplies.

In the late 1990s, Marvel worked out a deal which saw the movie licensing rights for the X-Men go to Fox, and in the summer of 2000 the studio released the first X-Men film directed by Bryan Singer. This of course got the ball rolling on a film franchise for Spider-Man due to a partnership with Sony. Then in 2008 Marvel began releasing films on its own starting with Iron Man starring Robert Downey Jr., which in turn created a new buzz about characters that weren’t seen in the X-titles. This obviously compelled the publisher to use that new interest to re-establish its other titles, in hopes of attracting movie goers to buy comics. However, some fans felt like the publisher stop caring as much about the X-titles when compared to books from the Avengers line.

And in a way it’s true largely because Marvel’s CEO Isaac Perlmutter felt that because of the deal with Fox, the X-titles, as well as the Fantastic Four, should take a back seat to properties they own 100%, and can financially benefit from.

This was more than obvious when the company would do cross over events like 2015’s Secret Wars and 2016’s Civil War II. Granted, the publisher didn’t completely “black ball” the characters from the X-titles, but they weren’t spotlighted in those books...and if they were, their appearances were limited. Following those two events, Marvel went and relaunched their books with characters fans knew from both theirs, Fox’s and Sony’s films. This of course got fans excited, as fan-favorite characters returned with all new first issues, a practice that’s not unusual, but of late has started to annoy some fans. This translated into a fourth volume of Uncanny X-Men, written by Cullen Bunn and featured the art of both Greg Land and Ken Lashley. The book X-Men was re-branded as Extraordinary X-Men; written

by Jeff Lemire and featured art from Humberto Ramos and Victor Ibanez, and Old Man Logan which replaced Wolverine, also written by Lemire, featured art from Andrea Sorrentino.

This new activity allowed the publisher to work its way to a cross over with another property it had been giving more time in the spotlight to the Inhumans. The IVX crossover lasted for 7 issues, and following its conclusion, left some fans upset, which is not uncommon for those overly committed fans.

Once the dust cleared, Marvel figured it’s time to not only keep its non-x-titles where they are, but see if the X-Men can reclaim the top of the sales charts they controlled for a large part of their history.

So the company unveiled “Resurrxion,” which not only saw the premier of X-Men Gold from Guggenheim and Syaf, featuring the “Classic” lineup, but will also see Cullen Bunn’s new book, X-Men Blue which stars the younger, time displaced versions of Cyclops, Jean Grey (AKA Marvel Girl) Beast, Angel and Iceman; which features art from Jorge Molina.

Also returning to the shelves of local comics shop is Generation X written by Christina Strain and artist Amilcar Pinna, and Weapon-X written by Greg Pak with art from Greg Land.

However, let’s not forget about the solo X-titles, as Old Man Logan will be now be under the new creative team of Ed Brisson and Mike Deodato Jr. Also making a comeback is fan favorite, Cable, from James Robinson and Carlos Pacheco. Other titles making their way to comic shops include Iceman written by Sina Grace, with art from Alessandro Vitti, and Jean Grey written by Dennis Hopeless and featuring art from Victor Ibanez. With the relaunch officially underway, and all these titles marked to hit shelves in the near future, it’s now up to fans to decide if the X-Men will once again be known as a powerhouse brand.

SPORTS SCENE

BY FLINT WHEELER

BRADY THE G.O.A.T.? YES SAYS MADDEN

T

hat doesn’t sound like a good way to describe a great athlete, let alone one that’s currently being praised as the best quarterback of all-time. But in today’s society, goat now means: “The Greatest of AllTime”.

I don’t like the “G.O.A.T.” titles. I think it’s lazy and it eradicates one of the best things in sports: having a respected opinion and not shoving it down someone else’s throat as a fact. Today, you can’t have a fun, level headed discussion about who is the greatest quarterback of all-time without a millennial blowing off whatever you said by simply saying: “Tom Brady has five rings. He’s the G.O.A.T. ‘Nuff said.”

If we could only find a way to make our political debates end with such conviction and certainty.

But like politics, our opinions are normally just that, our opinions. I may not agree with your sports opinions, but I’ll certainly respect them as long as you can do the same with regard to my thoughts and opinions. What I don’t like is someone completely discarding any conversation by simply playing the “ring game” and putting the title of “G.O.A.T.” next to the next big thing.

That’s why I was taken back by “Madden NFL 18” and their recent decision to put “G.O.A.T.” accompanying Tom Brady’s image on their newest cover. I have no problem with Brady donning the cover and I certainly understand why they did it (to relate to today’s society while trying to connect with their target audience: millennials), but I couldn’t believe that a supposedly unbiased game would join the rest of today’s society and jump on the G.O.A.T. bandwagon.

I’m not writing this as a jealous non-Patriots fan. I am writing this as someone that doesn’t like where our sports society is headed, where opinions are being labeled as facts, where fun, informative and educational back and forth sports discussions have been replaced by corny labels and lazy ways of defining who really is the Greatest of All-Time.

Tom Brady may be the greatest quarterback of all-time. He has the most Super Bowl appearances and titles by any quarterback in the Super Bowl era. He owns individual passing records and is still playing at a high level as he

approaches his 40th birthday. He is likely the greatest quarterback of this era, with only Peyton Manning joining that conversation, barely.

But before you dub Brady the “G.O.A.T.”, I’d like to share with you who I think is the greatest quarterback of all-time.

After leading Notre Dame to the greatest comeback victory in bowl history, Joe Montana was drafted by a 49ers team that went 2-14 during his rookie season. Two years later, Montana and coach Bill Walsh were running the most complex, intricate and effective offense that NFL had ever seen to that point, an offense (later dubbed the “West Coast Offense”) that would change the game of football forever. Montana stunned Dallas in the 1981 NFC title game, won his first Super Bowl two weeks later, and out-dueled Dan Marino (after Marino put together the greatest passing season -- at that time -- in NFL history) in Super Bowl XIX three years after that.

Despite playing in the loaded NFC (a conference that won the Super Bowl each year form 1984-96), Montana and the 49ers closed out the 1980s with two more Super Bowl victories, and were on their way to becoming the first team in league history to three peat in 1990. But a devastating injury to Montana in that year’s NFC title game led to San Francisco being upset by the Giants on a last-second field goal. Montana would miss the entire 1991 season, giving Steve Young the opportunity to take command of the 49ers’ offense as Montana watched helplessly from the bench.

While he enjoyed two very productive seasons in Kansas City, Montana was not able to add to his collection of four Vince Lombardi Trophies. While Brady also suffered a devastating injury (missing an entire season in 2008) during a similar point in his career, he didn’t lose his starting job, and was able to continue his Hall of Fame career while eventually surpassing Montana with five rings.

You may not agree with my take on Montana, but if you’ve made it this far in the article, you at least heard my argument, and I sincerely appreciate that. That’s what great sports conversations are all about, but in the world of the “G.O.A.T.” labels, those conversations are sadly coming to an end.

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

FREE WILL ASTROLOGY

Week of May 18

ARIES (March 21-April 19): “A two-year-old kid is like using a blender, but you don’t have a top for it,” said comedian Jerry Seinfeld. Would you like to avoid a scenario like that, Aries? Would you prefer not to see what happens if your life has resemblances to turning on a topless blender that’s full of ingredients?

Yes? Then please find the top and put it on! And if you can’t locate the proper top, use a dinner plate or newspaper or pizza box. OK? It’s not too late. Even if the blender is already spewing almond milk and banana fragments and protein powder all over the ceiling. Better late than never!

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): My pregnant friend Myrna is determined to avoid giving birth via Caesarean section. She believes that the best way for her son to enter the world is by him doing the hard work of squeezing through the narrow birth canal. That struggle will fortify his willpower and mobilize him to summon equally strenuous efforts in response to future challenges. It’s an interesting theory. I suggest you consider it as you contemplate how you’re going to get yourself reborn.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): I invite you to try the following meditation: Picture yourself filling garbage bags with stuff that reminds you of what you used to be and don’t want to be any more. Add anything that feels like decrepit emotional baggage or that serves as a worn-out psychological crutch. When you’ve gathered up all the props and accessories that demoralize you, imagine yourself going to a beach where you build a big bonfire and hurl your mess into the flames. As you dance around the conflagration, exorcise the voices in your head that tell you boring stories about yourself. Sing songs that have as much power to relieve and release you as a spectacular orgasm.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): In normal times, your guardian animal ally might be the turtle, crab, seahorse, or manta ray. But in the next three weeks, it’s the cockroach. This unfairly maligned creature is legendary for its power to thrive in virtually any environment, and I think you will have a similar resourcefulness. Like the cockroach, you will do more than merely cope with awkward adventures and complicated transitions; you will flourish. One caution: It’s possible that your adaptability may bother people who are less flexible and enterprising than you. To keep that from being a problem, be empathetic as you help them adapt. (P.S. Your temporary animal ally is exceptionally well-groomed.

Cockroaches clean themselves as much as cats do.)

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Lady Jane Grey was crowned Queen of England in July 1553, but she ruled for just nine days before being deposed. I invite you to think back to a time in your own past when victory was short-lived. Maybe you accomplished a gratifying feat after an arduous struggle, only to have it quickly eclipsed by a twist of fate. Perhaps you finally made it into the limelight but then lost your audience to a distracting brouhaha. But here’s the good news: Whatever it was -- a temporary triumph? incomplete success? nullified conquest? -- you will soon have a chance to find redemption for it.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): While shopping at a funky yard sale, I found the torn-off cover of a book titled You’re a Genius and I Can Prove It. Sadly, the rest of the book was not available. Later I searched for it in online bookstores, and found it was out ofprint. That’s unfortunate, because now would be an excellent time for you to peruse a text like this. Why? Because you need specific, detailed evidence of how unique and compelling you are -- concrete data that will provide an antidote to your habitual self-doubts and consecrate your growing sense of self-worth.

Here’s what I suggest you do: Write an essay entitled “I’m an Interesting Character and Here’s the Proof.”

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Leonardo da Vinci wrote a bestiary, an odd little book in which he drew moral conclusions from the behavior of animals.

One of his descriptions will be useful for you to contemplate in the near future. It was centered on what he called the “wild ass,” which we might refer

© Copyright 2017 Rob Brezsny

to as an undomesticated donkey. Leonardo said that this beast, “going to the fountain to drink and finding the water muddy, is never too thirsty to wait until it becomes clear before satisfying himself.” That’s a useful fable to contemplate, Libra. Be patient as you go in search of what’s pure and clean and good for you. (The translation from the Italian is by Oliver Evans.)

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): My friend Allie works as a matchmaker. She has an instinctive skill at reading the potential chemistry between people.

One of her key strategies is to urge her clients to write mission statements. “What would your ideal marriage look like?” she asks them. Once they have clarified what they want, the process of finding a mate seems to become easier and more fun. In accordance with the astrological omens, Scorpio, I suggest you try this exercise -- even if you are already in a committed relationship. It’s an excellent time to get very specific about the inspired togetherness you’re willing to work hard to create.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): In ancient Greek myth, Tiresias was a prophet who could draw useful revelations by interpreting the singing of birds. Spirits of the dead helped him devise his prognostications, too. He was in constant demand for revelations about the future. But his greatest claim to fame was the fact that a goddess magically transformed him into a woman for seven years. After that, he could speak with authority about how both genders experienced the world. This enhanced his wisdom immeasurably, adding to his oracular power. Are you interested in a less drastic but highly educational lesson, Sagittarius? Would you like to see life from a very different perspective from the one you’re accustomed to? It’s available to you if you want it.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): “You remind me of the parts of myself that I will never have a chance to meet,” writes poet Mariah Gordon-Dyke, addressing a lover. Have you ever felt like saying that to a beloved ally, Capricorn? If so, I have good news: You now have an opportunity to meet and greet parts of yourself that have previously been hidden from you -- aspects of your deep soul that up until now you may only have caught glimpses of. Celebrate this homecoming!

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): I predict that you won’t be bitten by a dog or embarrassed by a stain or pounced on by a lawyer. Nor will you lose your keys or get yelled at by a friend or oversleep for a big appointment. On the contrary! I think you’ll be wise to expect the best. The following events are quite possible: You may be complimented by a person who’s in a position to help you. You could be invited into a place that had previously been off-limits. While eavesdropping, you might pick up a useful clue, and while daydreaming you could recover an important memory you’d lost. Good luck like this is even more likely to sweep into your life if you work on ripening the most immature part of your personality.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Time out. It’s intermission. Give yourself permission to be spacious and slow. Then, when you’re sweetly empty -- this may take a few days -- seek out experiences that appeal primarily to your wild and tender heart as opposed to your wild and jumpy mind. Just forget about the theories you believe in and the ideas you regard as central to your philosophy of life. Instead, work on developing brisk new approaches to your relationship with your feelings. Like what? Become more conscious of them, for example. Express gratitude for what they teach you. Boost your trust for their power to reveal what your mind sometimes hides from you.

Homework: Imagine what your life would be like if you even partially licked your worst fear.

Describe this new world.

FreeWillAstrology.com ---------------------------------------Rob Brezsny Free Will Astrology freewillastrology@freewillastrology.com

LOCAL BUSINESS

May 18 to May 24, 2017

BY DENISE ORTUNO NEIL

SHAPE UP WITH PURE BARRE AT WHOLE FOODS MARKET

W

hole Foods Market in Palm Desert will be hosting a FREE fitness event featuring Pure Barre on Sunday, May 21st, 2017. Participants can shape up with this effective and popular exercise trend just in time for summer swimsuit season!

Fitness and Whole Foods Market go hand in hand. As the specialty market focuses on healthy food options, highlighting exercise seems natural. The relationship between Whole Foods Market and Pure Barre came from the desire to bring the community together in the name of health and wellness.

Whole Foods Market Palm Deserts Metro Marketing Field Team Leader, Christy Jeziorski, set out to search for a fitness studio to partner up with, which led her to Pure Barre in Palm Desert. “There are so many amazing spots out here, but when I came across Pure Barre, the relationship bloomed naturally,” said Jeziorski. The positive energy from Pure Barre owner, Nancy Meisler and managing instructor, Kylie Kolz, sealed the partnership. With other Whole Foods Markets embracing Pop-Up events with Pure Barre studios, Jeziorski knew that she was on

the right track.

Pure Barre is a growing exercise trend. The technique incorporates the use of a ballet bar, to perform small isometric movements and hones in on key parts of the body. The results are said to be quick, the impact low and is formulated for all fitness levels.

The Whole Foods Market Pure Barre fitness event will take place at the store’s fabulous patio space. There are two classes offered, one at 8:30am and the other at 9:45am. The event will have energizing music to work out to and giveaways. As an added bonus, Pure Barre will be offering introductory membership specials to attendees who wish to continue their Pure Barre experience.

Participants are asked to bring a yoga mat, a work-out towel, sticky shoes and good energy. As space for the classes are limited, those interested are asked to sign up in advance. With summer just around the corner, trying out a new form of exercise at the Whole Foods Market Pure Barre fitness event is a great way to start to shape up!

For more information and to sign up call Whole Foods at 760-797-8200, or Pure Barre at 760-836-0333.

23

May 18 to May 24, 2017

ASK THE DOCTOR

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

BY DR PETER KADILE

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

TAKE SOME ADVICE AND CALL ME IN THE MORNING

Dr. Kadile, are there any supplements that might help with memory? - Cristina, Indio Cristina, a recent study involving 1,200 participants showed that over two years that those with lower vitamin D levels showed significant indications of cognitive decline.

Vitamin D is thought to protect against the loss and damage of brain neurons.

Omega 3 fatty acids which can be found in fish oil supplements have also been shown to help with memory. A recent study in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease indicate better location recall among older men and women who supplemented with omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 has beneficial effects on nerve cell membranes and nerve transmissions involved in memory and learning.

Regular exercise, especially resistance exercise or weight training, can enhance memory and brain function.

Hey Doc, I have cramps in my legs at night. I take potassium for them but the cramps still continue. Can I take

anything else? - Robert, DHS

Robert, if you are taking prescription medication, muscle cramping may be a side effect and you should check with your doctor. If you aren’t on any medications, then you should try supplementing with magnesium, 300-400mg a day. Magnesium deficiency can cause muscle cramping.

Recent research has also found that magnesium intake may reduce pancreatic cancer risk.

Dr. K, why do I have to fast before having my labs drawn? - Michael, La Quinta Michael, unless specifically instructed by your doctor, you don’t have to fast (not eat 8-12 hours before a lab draw). Lab results should reflect what your body is doing under normal conditions and your body is not normally fasting for 8-12 hours.

Studies have shown that even cholesterol levels aren’t significantly changed in most people based on when their lab is drawn.

I generally recommend you have blood drawn 2-6 hours after a regular meal.

LIFE & CAREER COACH

BY SUNNY SIMON

A WALL WORTH CELEBRATING

M

y father-in-law was a special guy, he was a hardworking man who loved life but what I remember most was the way he took pride in family wins. Dad created a “Wall of Fame” along a hallway leading to his bedroom. In an area most people would find the area suitable for beautiful art, he proudly displayed proof of any family achievement, no matter how small. If a grandchild won a certificate for 3rd place in a spelling-bee it hit the wall, when a his son graduated from college, a copy of the diploma was framed and hung, and when I received a promotion, evidence of my corporate climb received billing on the wall. The entire family loved that wall, it spurred us on to work harder and aim higher, but most of all it taught us to celebrate success.

All too often we set goals and make the upward climb forgetting to pause at the top of our mountain and savor the view. Stop for awhile, do your happy dance and take a well earned bow. Savor and enjoy the kudos sent your way from friends and family.

While you’re doing a victory lap, consider those who supported you. Our star speller received encouragement and word drilling from her dad helped her place in the contest.

Like our word queen, you probably didn’t get to the goal line without some help. Be sure to pull your team into the celebration. Honor them

with words of gratitude and praise. By sharing your good feelings you inspire others to forge on and capitalize on their dreams.

For multiple reasons, it’s important to avoid rushing on to tackle the next goal. Slow down and spend some time processing the win you just scored. Analyze what you learned, what worked, what didn’t, and which skills need improvement.

On your way to the next goal, mindfully elevate the journey. Take the time to celebrate the smaller milestones achieved en route.

Doing so provides increased motivation to continue and bolsters self-esteem. Reward yourself with some small token, because you earned it. Experiencing joy in the journey is the point. If you wait until the deed is done to feel fulfilled, you may be waiting a very long time.

By prolonging the sensation of those good dopamine vibes, you risk discouragement and defeat.

If I learned anything from the man who created the display of family accolades, it is all of the above. Although sadly both Dad and his wall are gone, I thank him for teaching me to celebrate not only my wins but each step along the way.

Sunny Simon is the owner of Raise the Bar High Life and Career Coaching and the author of the blog www.lifeonthesunnyside.net

Receive The Celebrity Secret Of Permanent Cosmetic Make-Up Once Thought To Be Only For The Rich And Famous Now Affordalbe To Women Of All Ages!!

eyebrows eyeliner lipliner Receive 10% full lip color beauty marks off with camouflage areola pigmentation this ad

760.341.6606

Call Now For A Complimentary consultation 72-880 Fred Waring Dr. A3, Palm Desert, CA 92260

24

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

May 18 to May 24, 2017

25

May 18 to May 24, 2017

CVMAs

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

BY TRACY DIETLIN

2 CV MUSIC AWARDS CEREMONIES THIS YEAR!

THURSDAY, JUNE 1 - PRE-AWARDS CEREMONY @ BIG ROCK PUB FROM 7-10PM SUNDAY, JUNE 4 – MAIN AWARDS SHOW @ THE RIVIERA FROM 5-9PM

T

he CV Music Awards have grown and now we must spread the event between two nights and two venues. We started with just a few categories five years ago and kept growing: in 2015 we had 28 categories and last year 32. This year we have 37 categories in all genres that the valley got to vote on.

Combine that with the usual 15+ bands that we have perform and that means we had to do something different this year.

So like the Grammy’s, Oscars and Golden Globes, who all have separate ceremonies to give out awards in all the categories (hundreds) that you don’t see televised, we will be doing just that by having an additional separate event this year.

Our gracious sponsor, Big Rock Pub, will be hosting the Pre-Party Awards Ceremony on Thursday, June 1 from 7-10pm, where we will announce winners in 12 of the 37 nominated categories. There will also be several performances by nominees. The price for BOTH awards shows will be $25.00 in advance and $35.00 at the door. YES!!!

That means $25.00 gets you into BOTH awards ceremonies at Big Rock and The Riviera! The show at Big Rock will have limited seating so I highly recommend you purchasing tickets in advance as you might be turned away at the door due to capacity.

The following categories/awards will be announced at Big Rock: Best Keyboards, Best Bass, Best Local Music Event, Best Jazz Instrumental, Best Club DJ, Best Jazz Vocals, Best Reggae, Best Instrumental Band, Best Duo, Best Club Promoter, Best Adult Contemporary and Best Individual Instrumental.

Nominees performing at the Pre Party event at Big Rock include: Gina Carey, Mikey Reyes & Bryanna Evaro, Derek Jordan Gregg, Mark Gregg, Eevaan Tre, Keisha D and Minor Emergency.

The remaining 25 categories will be given out at the main awards show at The Riviera on Sunday, June 4:(Best Band, Best Rock Band, Best Alternative Band, Best Punk Band, Best Country Band/Artist, Best Metal Band, Best Rap/Hip Hop Artist, Best Blues Band/Artist, Best New Band, Best Youth Band, Best Live Performance Band, Best Cover Band, Best Female Vocalist, Best Male

26

Vocalist, Best Female Frontwoman, Best Male Frontman, Best Guitar, Best Drummer, Best Event DJ, Best Event Promoter, Best Live Performance Venue, Best Unsigned Album, Best Producer and Best Band Photographer, along with our special awards: 2 Trailblazer Award recipients (John Stanley King and Ronnie King), 2 Pioneer Award recipients (Scott Reeder and Herb Lienau), a Lifetime Achievement Award recipient (Alvin Taylor) and a new Visionary Award recipient (the AMP Program).

Bands performing at The Riviera are: Alex Santana, Black Water Gospel, The Bermuda, The Brosquitos, Cakes, Caxton, Death in Pretty Wrapping, Drop Mob, Faults of Andreas, The Flusters, 5th Town, Herbert, House of Broken promises, Hollace, Lisa & the Gents, Mighty Jack, Special Performance from Female Vocal Nominees including: Courtney Chambers, Lisa Lemke-Heinz, Symara Stone, Lisa Lynn Morgan, Chelsea Sugarbritches, Porsia Camille, Hannah Mills, Kelly Derrickson, KT Zapcart, Bri Cherry, and Esther Sanchez, Ali Saenz, Jen Corradi and Sepultura Moon from The After Lashes.

We are also planning a very special VIP after party for the main awards at the Riviera, which will feature a 40 minute collaboration of several of the rap/hip-hop nominees performing, followed by a set from Long Duk Dong and then closing out the night will be a set by Blackwater. For those who have attended this in the past you know it’s an event not to be missed.

So get your tickets now as the VIP party will also have limited tickets this year. VIP tickets are $50.00 in advance and $65.00 at the door.

Not only did we increase the number of categories this year but we also increased the amount of nominees in many of the categories, giving more bands and artists a chance for exposure, to perform and ultimately win an award. For tickets call 760-501-6228.

Thank you to our Title Sponsors: Renova Solar and Big Rock Pub. Additional Sponsors: Desert Wraps, Babes Brewhouse, Vektor Vodka, PS Organica, SIR, DarMar Awards, Bryson Backline Studios and Alpha Media (93.7).

Sponsor Opportunities still available.

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

May 18 to May 24, 2017

27

May 18 to May 24, 2017

28

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com