Coachella Valley Weekly - May 19 to May 25, 2022 Vol. 11 No. 10

c o a c h e l l a v a l l e y w e e k l y . c o m • M a y 1 9 t o M a y 2 5 , 2 0 2 2 V o l .1 1 N o .1 0

Walk For Ukraine

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Aries Malone

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Lady A

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Uncle Chai Thai Street Food

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Into The Woods

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May 19 to May 25, 2022

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BY CRYSTAL HARRELL

Coachella Valley Weekly (760) 501-6228

publisher@coachellavalleyweekly.com coachellavalleyweekly.com facebook.com/cvweekly twitter.com/cvweekly1 Publisher & Editor Tracy Dietlin Art Director Robert Chance Sales Team Kirby, Kathy Bates, Raymond Bill Club Crawler Nightlife Editor Phil Lacombe Head Music Writer Esther Sanchez Head Feature Writer Crystal Harrell Feature Writers Lisa Morgan, Rich Henrich, Heidi Simmons, Noe Gutierrez, Tricia Witkower Writers/Contributors: Robin Simmons, Rick Riozza, Eleni P. Austin, Craig Michaels, Janet McAfee, Haddon Libby, Sam DiGiovanna, Dale Gribow, Rob Brezny, Denise Ortuno Neil, Dee Jae Cox, Lynne Tucker, Aimee Mosco, Ruth Hill, Madeline Zuckerman, Ed Heethuis, Daniel Paris, Michelle Borthwick, Nadia Popova, Dennis Shelly Photographers Robert Chance, Laura Hunt Little, Chris Miller, Esther Sanchez Videographer Kurt Schawacker Website Editor Bobby Taffolla Distribution Phil Lacombe, William Westley

CONTENTS Palm Desert Concerts In The Park............. 3 Walk For Ukraine ........................................ 5 Parkinson's Resource Organization.......... 5 Real Estate .................................................. 6 Aries Malone ............................................... 7 Lady A at Fantasy Springs.......................... 7 Consider This - Americana Railroad.......... 8 Club Crawler Nightlife ............................... 9 Screeners................................................... 10 The Vino Voice .......................................... 12 Uncle Chai Thailand Street Food............. 13 Pet Place .............................................. 14-15 Breaking The 4th Wall - Into The Woods.... 16 Haddon Libby ............................................17 Dale Gribow .............................................. 17 Send Me A Trainer .................................... 18 Safety Tips ................................................. 18 College Of The Desert .............................. 19 Free Will Astrology................................... 19 Cyber Corner ............................................. 20 Travel Tips 4 U............................................ 21

May 19 to May 25, 2022

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hat has been a long-standing community tradition halted by the pandemic now returns as the City of Palm Desert hosts a series of free, weekly concerts at the Palm Desert Civic Center Park amphitheater throughout the month of May. The concerts will be held every Thursday from 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. with some of the top acts from across the region performing. The family-friendly event will also include free parking, food trucks, and games for kids.

“Palm Desert Concerts in the Park are all about fostering a sense of community. The great response we’ve had to the series this spring shows us that our residents and visitors are craving opportunities to get together with other people for music, food, and fun in the park,” stated Thomas Soule, Public Affairs Manager for the City of Palm Desert.

The City of Palm Desert normally hosts its Concerts in the Park series every May and October, with the notable exception being the hiatus during the pandemic. The City intends on keeping the concert series a biannual tradition in Palm Desert for many more years in the future.

“Each May and October, we put together a lineup of bands that bring a variety of genres and styles to Civic Center Park. There’s something for everyone to enjoy! We often feature local favorites that we know will be crowd-pleasers,” said Soule.

This month, the performers for the concert series offer a mix of musical styles, from country to classic rock. Santanaways, an electrifying Latin/blues rock band that pays tribute to Santana, kicked off the concert series on Cinco de Mayo. Other concert series performers so far included Flashback Heart Attack, a nationally acclaimed ‘80s show from Orange County that wowed the audience on May 12.

On May 19, country crooners will take center stage when the Kelly Rae Band delivers crowd-pleasing tunes that will have concertgoers on their feet. Frequently booked at festivals, fairs and theme parks, the band plays a wide range of country music from Patsy Cline and George Strait, to Little Big Town and Carrie Underwood.

Wrapping up the season on May 26 is Legends of Classic Rock, a notable line-up of musicians who have previously played with

White Lion, Ratt, Steppenwolf, Rod Stewart, Alice Cooper, Quiet Riot, Great White, and Dokken.

“Palm Desert’s Concerts in the Park are free and family friendly! We invite everyone to come spend the evening in the park with us!” encouraged Soule.

While the music is the main draw, food and beverage trucks will be available each concert evening, offering a variety of culinary delights an hour before the concerts. Concertgoers may also bring picnic baskets along with blankets and lawn chairs to enjoy the shows.

“The amphitheater at Civic Center Park is a great setting for informal concerts, allowing people to lounge on the grass or sit in their golf carts to enjoy good company and great music. We’re also able to get food trucks right up close to the audience, and there’s plenty of free parking nearby,” shared Soule.

The concert series features vendors like refreshing Italian ices E & E Pel’s every week, but try to have a different food truck at each concert. Upcoming vendors this month include Smokey Lips BBQ and The Big Easy Sandwich, and then Chaparritos Grill on the 26th.

Alcoholic beverages and smoking are prohibited at Civic Center Park. Families are also encouraged to arrive even earlier to take advantage of the games and activities offered

by Family YMCA of the Desert prior to the start of the concerts.

Palm Desert Civic Center Park is located on the northeast corner of San Pablo Avenue and Fred Waring Drive. For more information on attending the Concert in the Park series, visit www.DiscoverPalmDesert.com, or the VisitPalmDesert page on Facebook and Instagram.

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May 19 to May 25, 2022

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May 19 to May 25, 2022

LOCALS WALK TO SHOW SUPPORT FOR UKRAINE

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n May 14, a “We Stand With Ukraine” Walk on El Paseo took place to show support for the country of Ukraine as it undergoes extreme devastation from the Russian invasion.

On 24 February 2022, Russia launched a large-scale invasion of Ukraine, marking a steep escalation of the Russo-Ukrainian War, which began in 2014. As of this date, this has resulted in at least 46 thousand deaths, approximately 13 thousand non-fatal injuries, 600 billion dollars in property damage, and 14 million displaced Ukrainians, triggering Europe’s largest refugee crisis since World War II. In the March 30, 2022, edition of Coachella Weekly, life coach and business owner at Send Me A Trainer Nadia Popova was featured, as her elderly mother and brother are still living in Ukraine. Since she cannot physically help her family leave the country, she extends her support by sending funds to them and sharing their story to others in support.

“I live here in the Coachella Valley. I know many people and thought my intention was to

BY CRYSTAL HARRELL

create awareness in the community,” said Nadia.

The “We Stand With Ukraine” Walk began at 9:30 a.m., in front of the fountains at the Gardens on El Paseo. Ukrainian flags were given to attendees for them to hold as Nadia gave a speech about why this was an important moment for her.

“I was very touched by the movement I was able to create. There were some people who didn’t know me personally but showed up anyway to show their support for Ukraine,” stated Nadia.

San Jacinto city council member Pastor Brian E. Hawkins was also in attendance to show his support for the cause and spoke before the walk began.

“When you look at the current condition we are in today, we are losing the war against humanity. We have become the divided states of America,” said Hawkins.

After the speeches, the group walked from the Gardens on El Paseo to Wildest Restaurant + Bar for brunch at 10:30 a.m. At the restaurant, a dance duet was performed set to Ukrainian

music by the Nickerson-Rossi Dance company, choreographed by Michael Nickerson-Rossi, at 11:30 a.m.

“Here at Wildest, we’re here to support all perspectives. All things start and end at Wildest El Paseo,” stated Wildest Restaurant + Bar owner Charissa Farley.

Attendees of the Wildest brunch were informed about fundraisers and invited to donate to help families and children in Ukraine.

Nadia is working directly with the charity “Zberezi Ditinu,” located in Ukraine, that sends help to those who are in need. The charity helps orphaned children, single mothers, and maternity hospitals in Ukraine that are in need of food, supplies, and support due to the Russian attack.

Sunflower greeting cards by Lynne Rachel Tucker were also available for sale, with every two dollars for every card sold going to help families in Ukraine. The cards are size 5x7, costing five dollars per card plus shipping and handling if applicable with no minimum. Zelle is accepted and can be shipped anywhere.

PARKINSON’S RESOURCE ORGANIZATION USES NEW TECHNOLOGY WHILE INCORPORATING OLD TRADITIONS

BY KATE SPATES

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arkinson’s Resource Organizations (PRO) has found a way to incorporate a timeless tradition into new technology all to further the mission of the organization, “working so no one is isolated because of Parkinson’s”. Over the years, PRO has consistently been asked to create a special place to honor loved ones who’ve lost their battle with Parkinson’s – a place of remembrance and healing for those who are left behind.

The searchable, virtual Memorial Wall is their answer – a place where people can honor their loved ones who have passed with a photo and story and others can donate to the cause in their name.

Mixing old traditions with new, PRO sends a physical card to the designated, surviving loved one(s) when someone donates in honor of another, to let them know a donation was made along with an optional personal note from the giver to the survivor.

“We have never forgotten those who love to receive traditionally printed newsletters, mailers, invitations and such. People tell us all the time that they’re blown away by the simple gesture of receiving a physical card to acknowledge their loss.” Founder, Jo Rosen said.

For Rosen, this has always been a labor of love. Love for her husband and her mother when they were here on earth, love for their memories now that they’ve passed, and love for the ten million people and their families living with Parkinson’s around the world. The Memorial Wall is an extension of that love – a place for love to gather, reminisce, celebrate, as well as a ‘show of force’ to remind the world what we’ve already lost to this hideous disease When she first started Parkinson’s Resource Organization (PRO) in 1990, Rosen thought

they would have a cure for Parkinson’s within five years. She figured she would get the word out and close up shop within seven years for a long retirement, with her husband, returned to health, and by her side. But thirty-two years later, Rosen is still working so no one is isolated because of Parkinson’s – and in 2007 her beloved Alan joined her mother (who was also diagnosed with Parkinson’s) and other angels.

Alan and her mother live in her heart, in her memories, and on the Parkinson’s Resource Organization’s Memorial Wall, designed to: • Honor the diversity and rich legacies of the people we have already lost to Parkinson’s and demonstrate to the world the high human cost of this neglected disorder.

• Provide a place for the living to visit so they can gain solace and understanding around the battle of a loved one with Parkinson’s • Serve as a memorial when the family prefers donations in lieu of flowers or tributes at anniversaries or other significant dates Although this virtual project has been ‘under-construction’ for years, PRO will officially launch the first and only Parkinson’s Memorial Wall this May 23rd - 27th, 2022, with a weeklong celebration of the life and legacy of our departed loved ones.

“It was my first event I have ever organized.

I loved it. I love to take on a leadership role and create a movement. Speaking to the community through attending events, giving out the flyers and reaching out to people who I didn’t know was the most exciting,” shared Nadia.

Donations for Nadia’s GoFundMe pages can be found here for her family: https://www.gofundme.com/f/2kptnhhelp-me-save-my-family?utm_campaign=p_ cp+share-sheet&utm_medium=copy_link_ all&utm_source=customer The GoFundMe page to help Ukrainian children and families in need can be found here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/we-helpingrefugee-children-charity-in-ukraine?utm_ campaign=p_cp+share-sheet&utm_ medium=copy_link_all&utm_source=customer

Memorial Wall submission form can be submitted online using parkinsonsmemorialwall. com. There are currently 403 profiles on the Memorial Wall with a goal to hit 500 by the official launch on May 23rd. People are encouraged to submit a memorial for their loved one, and make a small contribution of $15, $25, $50, $100, or no limit, to support PRO’s mission.

There are also opportunities for Service Providers to become a Memorial Wall Sponsor – inclusion on the wall is free, but maintenance takes effort. Interested parties should consider one of the below sponsor levels to build your own living legacy and in tribute to those who have gone before us: • Presidential: $20,000 • Hope: $15,000 • Peace: $10,000 • Angel: $5,000 • Guardian: $2,500 • Sustaining: $1,000 Contributions directly fund the programs that have made PRO a trusted resource for the Parkinson’s community for over 32 years.

Parkinson’s Resource Organization currently offers six different types of emotional support, exercise, and mindfulness groups; a one-of-akind virtual resource directory – The Wellness

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Village – with practical resources and providers across the nation; a monthly newsletter, Newsworthy Notes; a robust and informative website; one-on-one coaching sessions; information and referrals; and a plethora of resources for people with Parkinson’s and their caregivers.

About Parkinson’s Resource Organization Since 1990, Parkinson’s Resource Organization (PRO) has served countless people caring for and living with Parkinson’s disease, a disorder of the central nervous system which affects movement, often including tremors. Founder Jo Rosen was the adult child of a person living with Parkinson’s and later a spouse of a person with Parkinson’s.

She was inspired to create an organization that would advocate for, educate and provide emotional support for caregivers of people with Parkinson’s. Now known worldwide with an online Wellness Village providing resources for Legal, Insurance, Financial Planning, Caregiving and Care Management, Medical Professionals, Hospice and Science as well as support meetings, now Virtually throughout the world.

They are “working so no one is isolated because of Parkinson’s” and working to find choices in creating ultimate quality of life. For more info, visit: parkinsonsresource.org.

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May 19 to May 25, 2022

REAL ESTATE

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f you would like to learn how to avoid paying capital gains tax by purchasing real estate with your IRA or old 401(k), plan on attending: “Maximizing your IRA with Real Estate” on Wednesday May 25, 2022.

This FREE event will take place at the desert’s beautiful new 55+ community Avenida Palm Desert located at 40445 Portola Ave. Avenida will provide complimentary champagne and cheese beginning at 4:30 p.m. You can register on Eventbrite or go to facebook. com/realestatePS and click “going.” To ensure there are enough seats, you are kindly asked to register for this event.

A professional Realtor does more than just open homes and put-up “For Sale” signs.

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MAXIMIZE YOUR IRA WITH REAL ESTATE

My goal is also to assist clients in maximizing their real estate investment portfolio. Most individuals don’t know purchasing real estate is one of the best ways to achieve generational wealth. When saving for retirement, most investors think: stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. But many big banks and platforms have made it easier for investors of all ages to throw their hat into the "self-directed" stock market trading ring.

This means you can choose to invest your money in real estate and see even bigger and better long-term capital gains.

IRAR Trust Company based in South Dakota will be our featured business. They have been a successful self-directed IRA

custodian with over 25 years of expertise.

IRAR Trust Company is a reliable financial institution in the industry and prides itself on always picking up the phone for clients.

Liane Bathey, Founder & CEO of IRAR Trust Company, is a Certified IRA Services Professional (CISP) and will breakdown how you can make real estate investments with a tax-deferred or tax-free self-directed IRA. What is Self-Directed Investing?

Self-directed investing differs from more traditional forms of investing. The biggest difference between self-directed investing and conventional investing is who is making the decisions. Conventional investing requires the use of an advisor and more traditional financial institutions to make investments on your behalf. A financial advisor chooses how to direct your investment funds. However, self-directed investing puts you directly at the wheel— you are in complete control over how you invest your IRA money. Real estate is the number one asset of choice in self-directed IRAs. At this informative event, you will also learn how to insure and fund your investments. Sean La Rue with Franklin Loan Center will be discussing investment property financing options and how you can combine your IRA with or without tax returns. He will be discussing the current interest rate market and what to expect with the election coming up in November.

Where are rates headed? How high can they go? Why are they going up so high so fast?

BY CRAIG MICHAELS What’s triggering this? When is the best time to invest? Get all these questions and more answered.

Purchasing real estate is one of the biggest investments you will make in your life. Naturally, you want to ensure you are protected. Jose Beltran, an insurance broker with Gooshead Insurance in La Quinta, will be on hand to give you useful information on insuring your properties. He is a graduate from the Santa Barbara Business college in Rancho Mirage, where he earned his degree in Business Administration. As an independent insurance broker with Goosehead Insurance, he can shop over 30 different insurance companies to give you the most competitive rates. They offer products for every type of borrower situation.

This will be a one-stop shop for investors and those interested in improving their financial future. If you have any questions, please call Craig Michaels with Better Homes and Gardens Desert Lifestyle Properties at: (760) 880-3848 or email at craig@ realestatepalmsprings.com.

Written By: Craig Michaels - Realtor DRE#02038709 Better Homes and Gardens Desert Lifestyle Properties

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ARIES MALONE - A CANNABIS CULTIVATOR

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t's safe to say that the legal cannabis industry has made its mark in the Coachella Valley, which is now one of the leading areas for large-scale cultivation in the state. There are mixed feelings about this in our communities, but one thing is for sure: it has helped local economies thrive. Desert Hot Springs boasts a long-term "cannatourism" strategy, and Cathedral City has more dispensaries per capita than any other city in the state according to recent rankings by Verilife. But, one stigma around this industry is certain; cannabis facilities who promised to give back to our communities that are "all talk and no action." Let's meet the industry leader who is taking action to change that.

Aries Malone is a cannabis cultivator with over 30 years of experience. In April of 2019, he was approached by a friend and investor in the cannabis industry to come cultivate in the legal market at Del Grow in Coachella, CA. Aries accepted the offer and is currently the Cultivation Manager for all Del Grow

Cultivation buildings, pursuing his passion and sharing his years of experience to shape Del Grow into the market leader in the Cannabis Industry.

Since taking on the Coachella campus, Aries has made it a priority to give back to Coachella Valley communities. In a time when

CANNABIS CORNER

large-scale cultivation facilities promised they would make a huge difference by giving back to our local towns in so many ways, which doesn't seem to have come to fruition, this is refreshing. Malone has expressed his awareness of the stigma surrounding some local facilities and their empty promises, so

MULTI-GRAMMY WINNING COUNTRY TRIO LADY A TO PERFORM HITS AT FANTASY SPRINGS RESORT CASINO

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May 19 to May 25, 2022

rammy Award-winning country group Lady A will perform an array of multi-platinum selling hits at the Special Events Center at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino on Friday, May 20, 2022.

Tickets to Lady A start at $79 and go on sale at 10 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 17 at the Fantasy Springs Box Office, via phone (800) 827-2946 and online at www.FantasySpringsResort. com.

Over the course of their decade-plus career, Lady A has become one of the 21st century’s premier vocal groups, blending deeply felt emotions with classic country sounds.

As a Country-radio staple, the trio has amassed record-breaking success ushering in 10 No.1 hits with more than 18 million album units and 34 million tracks sold and nearly 5 billion digital streams. Chart toppers such as “Bartender,” “Champagne Night,” “Just a Kiss” and “Need You Now” continue to receive massive airplay.

Charles Kelley, Dave Haywood and Hillary

PHOTOS BY DANIEL SULLIVAN

he set out to make a change.

He funded the Coachella Valley's first ever large-scale mural program for the youth in May of 2021 which made the news three times and was very impactful for local youth since they helped a renowned mural artist, Max Gramajo, paint the mural while learning his techniques. This large charitable contribution

by Aries helped launch a new and prominent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization called CV C.A.R.E Corp, and the founder has great things to say about Mr. Malone.

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Scott earned the biggest first week streams of their career with their critically acclaimed No. 1 album “Ocean” that has been touted as “the finest album of the band’s career,” according to Nashville Scene.

Known for their 9X Platinum hit “Need You Now” which is the highest certified song by a country group, they have earned Academy of Country Music and Country Music Association “Vocal Group of the Year” trophies three years in a row and countless other honors including seven Grammy Awards, Billboard Music Awards, People’s Choice Awards, TeenChoice Awards and a Tony Award nod.

Tickets for Lady A start at $79. For more information, contact the Fantasy Springs Box Office via phone (800) 827-2946 and online at www.FantasySpringsResort.com.

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May 19 to May 25, 2022

CONSIDER THIS

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s a kid, Carla Olson was fascinated by trains. She grew up just five blocks from the railway in Austin, Texas. Walking home from school she would occasionally put her ear to the track and listen for the train coming. Nightly, the faraway sound of the train whistle lulled her to sleep.

The train represented freedom, the allure of exotic destinations, a form of escape when the banality of small town living proved too much.

She came by music naturally. Her dad had played Classical piano. Carla started there, inspired by early heroes like Joan Baez and Bob Dylan, she switched to acoustic guitar.

Soon enough, she swapped the acoustic guitar for an electric one, and began playing in local bands. Following school, and several months in Italy, she returned to Austin in the late ‘70s and formed The Violators with (future Go-Go) Kathy Valentine Of course, Carla and Kathy skipped town as soon as they could, seduced by the siren song of Rock & Roll. Landing in Los Angeles, they formed the Textones. A seminal Roots Rock outfit, it included ex-Dwight Twilley Band member, Phil Seymour. Of course, Kathy soon joined the Go-Go’s, and the band went through a few line-up changes, but continued to hone their sound, an amalgam of Country, Folk, Blues and primitive Rock & Roll. Plying their trade at The Whisky, The Starwood and Madame Wong’s, they cultivated a passionate fan-base.

It was around this time that Carla’s cool blonde beauty caught the attention of Bob Dylan. He asked her to appear in one of his first videos, “Sweetheart Like You.” In return, he gave her an unreleased song, “Clean Cut Kid,” which appeared on Textones first official longplayer, “Midnight Mission.” Released in 1984, it garnered excellent reviews and reached #76 on the Billboard charts. Following the band’s sophomore effort, Cedar Creek, Carla went solo, well, sort of.

First, she teamed with former Byrds frontman, Gene Clark for the seminal So Rebellious A Lover record. Americana long before the term was coined, their sound zeroed in on their undeniably earthy vocal chemistry. Critical acclaim was unanimous, but commercial success remained elusive. Sadly, just as the pair began working on their next album, Gene died in 1991.

In the ensuing years, Carla has toggled between solo albums, and production work (Mare Winningham, Phil Upchurch, Davis Gaines). She also partnered with ex-Rolling Stones guitarist Mick Taylor on Too Hot For Snakes in 1991, and a decade later on The Ring Of Truth. She continued to remain busy behind the scenes, playing on, and producing sessions with everyone from Percy Sledge and Joe Louis Walker to Barry Goldberg. 2013 saw the release of Have Harmony, Will Travel, a collection of favorite cover songs, a second volume arrived in 2020. In between, the Textones (including Kathy Valentine), released their long-awaited third album, Old Stone Gang in 2018. Now Carla’s childhood obsession with trains comes full circle with the release of Americana Railroad. Not only does she perform on several songs, but as producer, she’s enlisted some well-known friends to record old and new songs that pay homage to a bygone mode of transportation.

The first three songs send the listener clickclackin’ down the track, beginning with “Here

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AMERICANA RAILROAD

Comes That Train Again,” a duet between Carla and Stephen McCarthy of The Long Ryders. Gritty electric guitars collide with fluid acoustic riffs, cinematic organ notes, rattle-trap tambourine and a chugging beat.

Written by Stephen, the melody shares some musical DNA with Paul Simon’s epoch-defining “Kodachrome.” The nostalgia is baked right in, as his affable croon wraps around Carla’s warm contralto; “Hear the whistle, see the smoke, down the track I walk, to the James with their Hollywood names, I can still hear them talk, since I’ve gone that train’s moved on, but I hope to see, one day that train’s coming back to me.” The ringing guitars of the opener have barely receded as “The Conductor Wore Black.” barrels out of the speakers. Robert Rex Waller Jr., lead vocalist for I See Hawks In L.A., acquits himself nicely on the Cow-Punk classic from Rank And File. That outfit rose from the ashes of Chip and Tony Kinman’s seminal Punk band, The Dils, and was one of the first bands to fuse Country and Punk. Slashing guitar riffs, courtesy of Chip Kinman, ride roughshod over flinty bass lines, and a walloping beat. Robert’s stentorian yowl adds some ye-haw verisimilitude to this Wild West tableau; “This train carries liars, this train carries cheats, this train carries black guards that you’d ever, you’d never want to meet.” Chip unfurls a chicken-scratch guitar solo that hopscotches through the break, as the propulsive rhythm locks into a locomotive beat.

Following family tradition, Rocky Burnette, scion of Rockabilly pioneer Johnny Burnette (and a mighty fine singer-songwriter himself), offers up a rollicking take of the Junior Parker/ Elvis Presley hit, “Mystery Train.” Powered by rickety piano, smoky harmonica, blazing guitars, a walking bass line, assorted handclaps and a jittery backbeat, the song thunders by at a furious clip. Rocky’s commanding tenor shakes, rattles and rolls across the arrangement as the piano pivots from prickly, Honky-Tonk notes to churchy, tent revival chords.

The allure of train travel crossed racial divides, musical idioms and economic circumstance. Gospel/Blues singer (and wildly influential electric guitarist) Sister Rosetta Tharpe had a hit back in 1939 with “This Train.”

Peter Case’s version strips it down to the bare bones, just strummy acoustic guitar, high lonesome harmonica and his baleful vocals around a foot-stompin’ beat. Meanwhile, Seratones’ vocalist AJ Haynes puts her Soulful spin on Elizabeth Cotton’s Folk classic, “Freight Train.” Paul Burch and Fats Kaplin keep the legacy of “The Singing Brakeman,” Jimmie Rodgers, alive with their dobro-riffic take on “Waiting For Train.”

Separately, John Fogerty and Robert Rex Waller Jr., pay obeisance to a couple of unsung songwriters, the late Steve Goodman and the late Steve Young. The former frontman and primary songwriter for Creedence Clearwater Revival (who has also carved out a successful solo career), knows a thing or two about crafting an indelible hook, and so did Steve Goodman.

The Chicago-born singer-songwriter died too soon from leukemia at the age of 36. John offers up a note-perfect rendition of Steve’s best-known song, “City Of New Orleans.” The jangly, Folk-flavored charmer takes the listener on a ride from Chicago to New Orleans on the Illinois Central Railroad; “there are fifteen cars and fifteen restless riders, three conductors and twenty-five sacks of mail.” It’s a family affair as

BY ELENI P. AUSTIN

John’s kids, Shane, Tyler and Kelsey, provide the instrumentation. Acoustic guitars lattice atop thready bass lines and wistful harmonica notes, courtesy Willie Nelson’s longtime bandmate, Mickey Raphael.

Steve Young was also a protean singersongwriter whose songs have been covered by Waylon Jennings and Hank Williams, Jr. But he’s probably best known as the writer of the Eagles hit, “Seven Bridges Road.” Originally, “Midnight Rail,” was a bit of a sad-sack dirge. But the I See Hawks frontman is able to preserve the pathos, but cloaks it in an arrangement that features sparkly electric guitar, poignant slide guitar runs and a sturdy backbeat.

Some of the tracks here are as old as the hills, but three managed to climb the Billboard singles chart. They unfurl here in slightly reconfigured forms. Although Rocky Burnette already served up a swinging version of Elvis’ “Mystery Train,” L.A. Rocker James Intveld takes a run at the Sun Records classic. Jaggy guitar riffs lock in with tensile bass lines and a walloping backbeat, giving it a ballsy, BluesRock flavor.

Back in the mid ‘50s, Johnny Burnette and the Rock and Roll trio added a Rockabilly patina to Tiny Bradshaw’s Jump-Blues hit, “Train Kept A-Rollin.” Nearly a decade later, The Yardbirds gave it a coat of Psychedelicized paint. A few years after that, Aerosmith added some Hard Rock heft, and it became a Classic Rock staple.

Now ‘80s Rocker, Gary Myrick has fashioned the ultimate Surf/Twang combo-platter anchored by reverb-drenched guitars, swaggering bass (courtesy ex-Knack bassist, Prescott Niles) and a tribal, triple-time tattoo. Gary’s guttural vocals double down on the authenticity of the lyrics’ sex-on-a-train (not so) double entendre.

Finally, Dustbowl Revival offers up a sanguine take on Crosby, Stills & Nash’s “Marrakesh Express.” Originally a buoyant and beatific number inspired by a train trip Graham Nash took from Casablanca to Marrakesh, the Dustbowl kids whip up an aural banquet.

Serving up plenty of trombone, trumpet, keys, guitar, drums, bass and percussion. Their frothy arrangement lands somewhere between Donovan, Junkanoo Carnivale, a Big Easy second-line and Herb Alpert’s Tijuana Brass.

One of Carla Olson’s most rewarding collaborations was with ex-Byrd, Gene Clark.

She honors that partnership by roping in another Byrds compadre, John York for “Runaway Train,” and enlisting Gene’s son, Kai Clark for a rendition of Gene’s own “Train Leaves Here This Morning.” The former, written by former Kingston Trio-ite, John Stewart, layers fragile vocals, chiming guitars, tough-minded piano and shaded pedal steel atop a four-onthe-floor shuffle rhythm. Wildly verbose lyrics

depict a faltering, long-distance relationship, as a romance gone off the rails; “Steel rails and hard lives are always in twos, I have been here before this, and now I’m it’s with you, I’m worried about you, I’m worried about me, we’re lighting the fuses and counting to three/ And what are the choices for those who remain, the sign of the cross, on a runaway train, this thing has turned into a runaway train.”

The latter co-written by Gene and Bernie Leadon was a bit of a slippery roundelay, originally found on his fourth solo album, No Other, as well as the Eagles self-titled debut.

In his son’s hands it becomes a full-blown Honky-Tonk lament. Strumming acoustic guitar partners with forlorn pedal steel, Opry’fied fiddle, compliments of legendary Byrds sideman, Byron Berlaine, along with stinging electric guitar, rock-ribbed bass and a tick-tock beat. Kai’s vocals are as worn and comfortable as an old denim jacket. Mournful pedal steel wraps around shivery fiddle on the break. Meanwhile, the final verse is suitably desolate and dissolute. As the unlucky-in-love narrator contemplates a change of scenery; “And I watched as the smoker passed it on, and I laughed when the joker said ‘lead on,’ cause there’s a train that leaves this morning, don’t know what I might be on.

On an album stacked with a plethora of wonderful tracks, one stands out from the pack, and that’s Dave Alvin’s song, “Southwest Chief.”

This minor-key masterpiece was co-written by the late great Folk legend Bill Morrissey.

Filigreed acoustic fretwork is matched by honeyed electric riffs, vroom-y bass and a percolating beat. Dave’s cigarette-tinged vocals hit that sweet spot between rangy baritone and supple tenor. An expansive travelogue, the lyrics paint a vivid and sweeping narrative; “Racing through the cornfields and nameless small towns, porch lights coming on as the sun goes down, Folks I’ve known and loved keep crossing my mind, as the train keeps on pushing and making up for lost time.” Courtly Spanish guitar underscores the bittersweet tableau.

Other interesting tracks include an intriguing take on Curtis Mayfield’s “People Get Ready” from Deborah Poppink, “500 Miles” from Alice Howe and “Steel Pony Blues,” an original from former Carolina Choclate Drops member, Dom Flemons, that limns the true story of ex-slave and Pullman porter Nat Love (aka Deadwood Dick).

As producer, Carla’s fingerprints are all over the record, adding harmonies, handclaps and additional guitar here and there. She’s front and center two more times, partnering with Brian Ray for a crackling rendition of Procol Harum’s “Whisky Train” and closing the set with Stephen McCarthy for another Gene Clark classic, I Remember The Railroad.”

Throughout the 20th century, train travel conjured up panoramic vistas, romance and adventure. Riding the rails signaled new beginnings and final destinations, a mode of transportation equally suited to hobos and Kings. The music on Americana Railroad perfectly captures those halcyon days.

(Although Americana Highway was released on limited edition vinyl for Record Store Day, it won’t be released on CD until June 17th)

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

Thursday, May 19

Casuelas Café – Avenida – 6pm Chef George’s – Marc Antonelli – 6:30pm Coachella Valley Brewery – Open Mic – 6pm Cunard’s Sandbar – Bill Baker – 6pm Four Twenty Bank – Ultimate Jam Sessions – 6pm Indian Wells Resort Hotel – Kristi King – 6pm Jazzville @ Agua Caliente – Sacha Boutros Quintet – 7pm Jolene’s – Rebecca Clark – 6pm Lit @ Fantasy Springs – Country Nation – 7pm The Nest – Live Music – 6:30pm O’Caine’s – Craic Haus – 6pm Old Town La Quinta – Live Music – 6-9pm Oscar’s – Colton Ford – 6pm Plan B Entertainment & Cocktails – Uncle Paul w/ Switcharoo and Tommy Carns – 9pm Shanghai Red’s (Palm Springs) – Lisa Lynn and the Broken Hallelujahs – 7pm Tommy Bahamas – Alex Santana – 5pm Vicky’s of Santa Fe – John Stanley King Trio – 6pm The Village – Rob & JB – 5:30pm, Village Idiots – 8:30pm, DJ Gio the Ace – 9pm

Friday, May 20

Alibi – Desert Frique – 8:30pm Babaloos Lounge – Desert Crows – 6pm Bart Lounge – DJs FrankThaDank, GED, Meowsenburg, Chicosounds and Optimist Grind – 8pm Bubba’s Bones and Brews – Derek

Jordan Gregg – 6pm Casuelas Café – The Myx – 7pm Chef George’s – Lizann Warner – 6:30pm Coachella Valley Brewing Co. – “Brewhouse Rocks” w/ Crucial Culture, Jonny Ransom and Delta Fuzz – 7:30pm Cunard’s Sandbar – Bill Baker – 6pm Desert Fox – Daytime Moon – 9pm Four Twenty Bank – Derek Jordan Gregg – 6pm Hotel Zoso – DJ Manny – Lounge – 6pm Indian Wells Resort Hotel – Marc Antonelli – 6pm Jolene’s – Jolene’s Allstars – 7pm Lit @ Fantasy Springs – Next Level – 9pm Mitch’s on El Paseo – Alex Santana – 12pm The Nest – Live Music – 6:30pm O’Caine’s – Kilty as Charged – 6pm Old Town La Quinta – DJ Pumba – 7-10pm Oscar’s – Rose Mallett – 6pm Pappy and Harriet’s – The Shins – 6:30pm, (chk chk chk) – 10:30pm Plan B Entertainment & Cocktails – Red’s Rockstar Karaoke – 9pm Rockyard @ Fantasy Springs – Academy of Musical Performance w, C4 and Steel Rod – 7pm Tommy Bahamas – Alex Santana – 5pm The Village – Rob & JB – 5:30pm, DJ Gio the Ace – 9pm, Rapmarz – 9pm, DJ LF – 10pm Vicky’s of Santa Fe – Kal David Trio – 4:30pm, John Stanley King – 7pm

Saturday, May 21

Babaloos Lounge – Frank Di Salvo – 6pm Bart Lounge – Goth Night w/ DJs

Ahsatan, Danza de Luna, Luna Divine and Dead Romeo – 8pm Casuelas Café – Vinny Berry – noon, Desert Suite Band – 7pm Chef George’s – Michael D Angelo and Tim Burleson – 6:30pm Coachella Valley Brewing Co. – Armistice and Instigator – 7:30pm Cunard’s Sandbar – Bill Baker – 6pm Four Twenty Bank – Kings of Karma – 6pm The Hood – TBA – 9pm Hotel Zoso – DJ Femme A – poolside – 11am, DJ Sugarfree – lounge – 6pm Indian Wells Resort Hotel – Marc Antonelli – 6pm Jolene’s – Fun with Dick and Jane – 7pm Lit @ Fantasy Springs – Next Level – 9pm Mitch’s on El Paseo – Alex Santana – 12pm The Nest – Live Music – 6:30pm O’Caine’s – California Celts – 6pm Old Town La Quinta – Live Music – 6:308:30pm Oscar’s – Oscar’s Cabaret – 6pm Palm Canyon Roadhouse – Derek Jordan Gregg Band – 9pm Pappy and Harriet’s – Julianna Barwick and Malibu – 8pm Plan B Entertainment & Cocktails – Red’s Rockstar Karaoke – 9pm Rockyard @ Fantasy Springs – George Michael Reborn (George Michael Tribute) and Hollywood Blonde – 7pm Tommy Bahamas – Alex Santana – 5pm Vicky’s of Santa Fe – Rose Mallett’s Company – 4:30pm, John Stanley King – 7pm The Village – Rob & JB – 1pm, Rapmarz – 9pm, DJ LF – 10pm

May 19 to May 25, 2022

Sunday, May 22

Babaloos Lounge – Tim Burleson – 6pm Bart Lounge – Latina Night w/ DJ LF – 8pm Blu Ember – Gina Sedman – 5pm Casuelas Café – Las Tias – noon, Barry Baughn Blues Review – 5:30pm Coachella Valley Brewing Co. – Acoustic Afternoon w/ Wes Gainey, Josh Heinz and Matt Kreps – 3:30pm Fisherman’s Market, PS – Art of Sax – 5pm Jolene’s – Sharon Sills – 6pm Kitchen 86 – Jojo Malagar – 7pm Melvyn’s – Mikael Healey – 5pm Palm Canyon Roadhouse – Sunday Night Jam – 5pm Pappy and Harriet’s – Slaughter Beach, Dog w/ Trace Mountains and Anika Pyle – 8pm The Nest – Live Music – 6:30pm Tommy Bahamas – Alex Santana – 12pm Vicky’s of Santa Fe – John Stanley King – 6pm The Village – Gio the Ace - 9pm

Monday, May 23

Babaloos Lounge – Tim Burleson – 6pm Hyatt – Derek Jordan Gregg – 5-7pm Indian Wells Resort Hotel – Larry Capeloto – 6pm The Nest – Live Music – 6:30pm The Village – DJ Gio the Ace – 9pm

Tuesday, May 24

Babaloos Lounge – The Carmens – 6:30pm

Casuelas Café – Desert Suite Band – 5:30pm Chef George’s – Lizann Warner – 6:30pm Cunard’s Sandbar – Bill Baker – 6pm Hyatt – Derek Jordan Gregg – 5-7pm Indian Wells Resort Hotel – Christine Love and Johnny Meza – 6pm Lit @ Fantasy Springs – Brad’s Pad – 7-10pm Mitch’s on El Paseo – Alex Santana – 12pm The Nest – Live Music – 6:30pm Pappy and Harriet’s – Son Lux and Nappy Nina – 8pm Vicky’s of Santa Fe – Slim Man Band – 6pm The Village – Karaoke – 9pm, Rapmarz – 9pm

Wednesday, May 25

Alibi – Joshua Ray Walker – 8:30pm Babaloos Lounge – The Myx – 7pm Casuelas Café – Lisa Lynn and the Broken Hallelujahs – 6pm Chef George’s – Tim Burleson – 6:30pm Cunard’s Sandbar – Bill Baker – 6pm Indian Wells Resort Hotel – Rebecca Clark – 6pm The Nest – Live Music – 6:30pm Oscar’s – Marc Antonelli – 6pm Pappy and Harriet’s – Robyn Hitchcock – 6pm Plan B Entertainment & Cocktails – Red’s Rockstar Karaoke – 9pm Tack Room Tavern – T-Bone Karaoke – 7pm Vicky’s of Santa Fe – John Stanley King – 6pm The Village – Rapmarz – 9pm, Banda Revolucion – 10pm

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May 19 to May 25, 2022

SCREENERS

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

No. 527

4K BOT COP IS ON DUTY

BY ROBIN E. SIMMONS

ROBOCOP (1987) UHD Steelbook [Limited Edition] Director Paul Verhoven’s Hollywood debut instantly became an enduring scifi/action classic when it landed on the big screen in the summer of 1987. Verhoven’s peerlessly exciting and kinetic visuals are matched by a terrifically insightful script by co-writer Ed Neumeier and exceptional special effects by Rob Botkin (The Thing) and Phil Tippett (The Empire Strikes Back).

The story is set in a not too distant future Detroit. Heroic cop Alex Murphy (a terrific Peter Weller) is gunned down in the line of duty only to be resurrected as a RoboCop –

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a cybernetic mix of spare human parts and Motor City's steel and the latest defense against crime weaponry designed by the allpowerful OCP Corporation.

As RoboCop’s memories of his former life as Murphy resurface, only his ex-partner (Nancy Allen) stands beside him to fight against the merciless thugs responsible for his death, as well as the nefarious top-level OCP executive orchestrating the chaos from above.

This thrilling, motional and unexpectedly hilarious satire of a future “law and order” society that is all-too believable in view of the current rise of militaristic police forces.

The definitive (uncensored) 4K UHD Bluray director’s cut is packed with a trove of fascinating and watchable bonus features of which the following is only a sample: “Split screen comparisons between the Director’s Cut and Theatrical Cut and the edited for TV version.

“Two isolated score tracks comparing the Original score with the Final Theatrical mix.”

“Disc Two: The Theatrical Cut.” “Commentary by director Verhoven, executive producer Jon Davison and writer Ed Neumeier.

“Director’s Cut Production Footage, raw dailies from the filming of the unrated gore scenes (presented in 4K (SDR).”

“Extensive image galleries.”

“The Boardroom Storyboard with commentary by Phil Toppett.”

“Four deleted scenes.”

“RoboCop: Creating A Legend (1987), Villains of Old Detroit, Special Effects.

“Then & Now: three archive featurettes from 2007 featuring interviews with cast and crew.”

“2012 Q&A with the Filmmakers, a panel discussion with Verhoven, Davison, Neumeier, Milner, Allen, star Peter Weller and animator Phil Tippett.”

“RoboProps, a fun tour of super-fan Julien Dumonia’s collection of original props and memorabilia.”

“More Man Than Machine: Composing RoboCop, a tribute to composer Basil Poledouris,” “44 Page Limited Edition Collectible,” “Commentary originally recorded for the Theatrical Cut and re-edited for the Director’s Cut. “Disc One: The Director’s Cut.” And about a dozen more bonus features make this an outstanding set worth owning.

From Arrow Video. Recommended.

I want to hear from you. What are you watching and most excited about seeing, streaming or catching in a theater? Drop me a line. robin@coachellavalleyweekly.com

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

May 19 to May 25, 2022

11

May 19 to May 25, 2022

THE VINO VOICE

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

BY RICK RIOZZA

WISE WOMEN IN WINE

A

ccording to last year’s wine stats, as reported by UPROXX, which has the pulse of women in culture, “Of the 172 people who have earned the Master Sommelier title, only 28 are women. When it comes to actual winemaking, the figures are even starker.

Of the more than 4,000 wineries scattered across California, only 10 percent operate under the guidance of head winemakers who identify as women. And only four percent of all wineries are actually owned by women.

“As far as creating equal opportunities and the empowerment of women goes, the wine industry—like many others—has been sluggish at best. The problem extends across all sectors of the industry, from winemaking to importing and distributing on down to the sommeliers. Simply put, the industry could use some change.

“There are some folks who are helping increase the visibility of women in wine, like Alexandra Schrecengost—the founder and owner of Virtual With Us, a women-led hospitality company that hosts virtual wine tastings and cooking events for brands looking to entertain prospective clients and boost teambuilding among employees. Just months after launching a wine-centric company during a global pandemic, Schrecengost has built a team of women who know their vino and are dedicated to fostering a more inclusive environment for people of all backgrounds and identities in the field.

“Change has been a little slow because of the industry itself,” Schrecengost says. “There are a lot of women supporting women, but I think the other side of that is the need for more men to stand up for women in the wine biz.” Cheers to that!

This CV Weekly Vino Voice column has always been eager to highlight the brave and strong women that play in the game of wine. Below is a quick reprise of one of the most interesting stories to shine about women winemakers: “A couple of years ago, (in 2015) we did an enlightening story on the wine making McBride sisters. The story was especially interesting because although both Robin and Andréa were born in Los Angeles—nine years apart, they were raised by different mothers and without the knowledge of each other.

“The kicker in the story is that both girls individually shared a passion for winemaking growing up in two different but famous wine regions in the world: the elder sister Robin was raised in Monterey, California around coastal tide pools, forests and vineyards, while Andréa was raised in her mother’s native country of New Zealand, where she learned firsthand the art of grape farming from her uncle in Marlborough.

“And it’s quite an account on how the sisters came to meet. Their shared biological father, Kelly McBride, wasn’t around for most of their lives, but before he died in 1996, he asked his family to try and connect the two girls. The request was daunting but as families do, they persisted, even going to the Department of Motor Vehicles of many states and pulling the records of every Robin McBride listed and writing dozens of letters in the effort to connect.

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“Their paternal uncle and aunt located Robin’s whereabouts and sent her a letter.

Therein she wrote, “I’m your aunt, and I’m sorry to tell you that your dad has passed away, but you have a little sister,’” Robin said, “it was very shocking.” And the day after receiving that letter, the sisters were united for the first time in 1999.

“Brainstorming their shared talents, abilities & goals and combining their 10 years of industry experience, the two embarked in 2010 on a winemaking journey together, launching their own négociant winemaking business. They were adept to know that wine production— with the right knowledge and contacts—can be made possible with access to vines, vineyard operations, crushing facilities, barrel storage, bottling & distribution.”

Their signature McBride Sisters Collection wines are direct reflections of the terroirs of their youth, with flavors designed for all palates. The fun, fab and eco-friendly SHE CAN canned wine collection and its related SHE CAN Professional Development Fund, are inspired by the endless pursuit of all women who are making their dreams a reality and breaking barriers daily.

And the Black Girl Magic collection, Robin and Andrea’s personal ode to their culture and story, is inspired by the magic and resilience of Black women, to be enjoyed by all.

Schrecengost recently wrote, “Sisters Robin and Andrea McBride may have launched their label McBride Sisters Collection to share the joy of wine with drinkers around the globe, but their dedication to female empowerment has put the sisters front and center in the march for change.

“These are women of color that came into an industry that’s predominately male, but they’ve really shown how they support women,” “They have their scholarships and their funding initiatives that women can apply for if they’re starting their own business. They’re trying to support women in the industry by funding them.” Brava to them!

And now on a sad different note: we are all downhearted to hear that Christine Soto, owner of the Palm Springs’ Dead or Alive Wine Bar + Shop, after six and a half years, will be closing the doors at the end of this month. Christine is one of our favorite wise wine gals in the desert. Her eclectic wine bar was a shining light to bringing natural and organic wine to the populace.

Christine writes, “This business was built on grit, naiveté, and you. We’ve subsisted off momentum, a lot of good will, and resilience. I am deeply grateful and want to thank everyone who has ever walked through the doors, joined our wine club, bought wine, said a kind word or offered support.

“There will be no funeral...we prefer to go out with a Celebration of Alive. Help us to wrap it up with a bow and a bang.” Christine invites all to come in for drinks & stuff for these last final days in May. deadoralivebarandshop.com Here’s to Christine—Cheers!

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UNCLE CHAI THAILAND STREET FOOD

T

he Atrium Complex in Rancho Mirage has seen its share of restaurants come and go in the last few years.

In February 2022, Chai Butrlakorn, felt it was time to introduce the adventurous diners of the Coachella Valley to authentic Thai street food dishes and opened his second eponymous Uncle Chai Thailand Street Food restaurant. I have eaten at nearly every Thai restaurant in the Coachella Valley and hoped I would experience new Thai dishes, or at least, reimagined Thai standards.

The menu seemed familiar with a few tweeks and exceptions. Appetizers included Glew Tod wontons with stuffed pork, Fried Tofu, and Steamed Pork Dumplings. Soups included both Tom Yum and Tom Kha. Salads offered are Som Tum (green papaya salad) and Larb Moo (ground pork, green onion, cilantro, and mint) served with rice and lettuce leaves for stuffing.

The street food entrees are Moo Dang Moo Krob, a dish with red BBQ pork and crispy wok-fried pork over rice. Krapow Moo

Sub Kai Dow, stir-fried ground pork, Thai chili, fresh Thai basil topped with a fried egg over rice. Gratiem Prik Thai, stir-fried chicken over rice. Kai Jeaw, a Thai omelet with green onion and tomato over rice. I ordered the Suki Hang, a combination of chicken, squid, mixed vegetables, and Thai suki sauces on a bed of stir-fried thin rice glass noodles. The balance of deep flavors and attention given to individual ingredients combined to make an incredible entrée. The chicken breast

May 19 to May 25, 2022

BY DANIEL PARIS

slices were moist, the squid perfectly tender, and the veggies had just enough crunch.

My dining companion ordered Kee Mow (Drunken Noodle) with stir-fried shrimp, Thai chili, red bell pepper, and fresh basil on a bed of slightly smoky flat rice noodles.

Yellow, green, Massaman, and Panang curries are also on the menu. Uncle Chai Pad Thai is also featured. Dessert offers the classic Thai Mango Sticky Rice.

There is a rotating special menu including

GOOD GRUB

items such as whole crispy catfish and seafood combinations. The spice level is medium unless you want no heat at all or the mouthburning Thai level. I am already planning my next visit to dine at my new favorite Thai restaurant.

69930 Hwy. 111 Suite 122 Rancho Mirage, CA 92270 Fri-Sat: 11 am to 3 pm, 5 pm to 10 pm Sun-Thu: 11 am to 3 pm, 5 pm to 9 pm (760) 699-8884

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May 19 to May 25, 2022

PET PLACE

K

ittens are adorable, playful, and so much fun to fall in love with!

However, it is kitten season again and sadly there are not enough homes for the very high number of them being born this year.

The cat crisis is exacerbated by the thousands of homeless cats that roam Coachella Valley fields and backyards, producing litters that will soon multiply and produce more unwanted kittens. During the pandemic spaying and neutering was not considered an essential service, and more animals reproduced during that time. The nation-wide veterinarian shortage has contributed to domestic pet

A BOY NAMED SHEBA YES I’M A BOY NAMED SHEBA! The Humane Society of the Desert is keeping the name my family gave me. I miss my humans and the children, but they were evicted and I had no where to go. I am 3 years old, a handsome mix of Lab & Shepherd, healthy and fully vetted. I love people and other dogs. Call for an appointment to meet me (760) 329-0203, 17825 N. Indian Canyon, N. Palm Springs, www.orphanpet.com.

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KITTENS! KITTENS! R.I.P. ROZ LANDSMAN overnight. According to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary 70% of the animals euthanized in America’s public shelters in 2020 are cats and kittens.

Pictured here is animal hero Roz Landsman holding Foxie and Fiona, two precious kittens rescued from a dumpster by a good Samaritan who brought them to Loving All Animals. It was a miracle they were still alive. Knowing the urgency facing the survival of the young neonatals, Roz rushed to Loving All Animals to retrieve the tiny siblings. Foxie and Fiona thrived from her expert and loving care and eventually went to forever homes. Sadly, Roz Landsman suddenly passed away during April, leaving a void of fostering options for the most vulnerable creatures.

On a mission of love, Roz fostered 38 litters of cats and kittens during the past 25 years. In 1997, she was the Volunteer Coordinator at Animal Samaritans. One day she observed a woman enter the facility with two tiny motherless kittens she found in the bushes. She overheard the receptionist tell the woman they were too young for the organization to accept. Without thinking, Roz blurted out, “I will take them!”

Fortunately, a veterinarian was on duty at Animal Samaritans that day in 1997, and he provided Roz with a list of bottle-feeding supplies to purchase at Petco. The vet instructed her about how to bottle feed very young kittens. The tiny creatures, estimated to be only one day old, still had their umbilical cords attached. Roz happily undertook

overpopulation.

These precious creatures are in serious jeopardy when they arrive at California’s overcrowded public animal shelters. The motherless kittens too young to eat solid food require round the clock bottle feeding.

Public shelters do not have the overnight staff to keep these little animals alive. Unless a bottle-feeding foster can be located quickly, sadly the only option may be euthanasia. This is a heartbreaking situation for the animals and the shelter staff. They desperately seek foster homes, and some shelter workers have been known to take animals home with them

MEET CANDY Candy is the sweetest girl you could ever meet! And with those lovely markings, the most beautiful. Rescued by Pretty Good Cat, a wonderful foster based charity in La Quinta. Complete application online at www.prettygoodcat. com (under the tab “More”), and then call (760) 660-3414 to adopt Candy.

BY JANET McAFEE the round the clock feedings required for kittens this young. Roz recalls, “My adult cat Sadie eventually helped care for the kittens, keeping them clean and warm, and helping potty train them. The kittens thrived, and I ended up adopting them both.”

Roz explains, “Fostering is my joy! My children are now grown, but I still get to be a mom. When my husband, Arnie, was alive we were known as the ‘kitten bottle feeding couple’. We all look for a purpose in our lives, and I’ve found mine with fostering. I will never stop fostering these precious kittens and cats!”

Mary Ewing with Loving All Animals reports, “If we had a few more dedicated people like Roz to help, it would make a difference to so many cats and kittens. Many of the kitten groups that need foster homes are 5 weeks and older so they don’t need the frequent bottle feeding. Can you help?

Working together, one day we can save them all!”. Animal fostering is the key to expanding the walls of the shelters.

In Roz’ memory, will you help? The animal rescues and shelters listed here would welcome your joining their life saving team!

They provide supplies, vet work, and feeding instructions. You can also offer to foster older cats, dogs, or puppies.

Janetmcafee8@gmail.com

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--------------------------------------------------Here are some places where you can adopt a wonderful rescue dog or cat!

COACHELLA VALLEY ANIMAL CAMPUS – Open 10:00-4:00 Monday through Saturday.

View animals online at all 4 county shelters www.rcdas.org, 72-050 Pet Land Place, Thousand Palms, (760) 343-3644. (Public) PALM SPRINGS ANIMAL SHELTER – Open to the public, closed Tuesday. View animals online at www.psanimalsshelter.org and complete application for the one you want to meet, 4575 E. Mesquite Ave, Palm Springs, Call (760) 416-5718. (Public) DESERT HOT SPRINGS ANIMAL CARE & CONTROL - Open daily 9:30-4:30. www. cityofdhs.org/animal-care-control.com, 65810 Hacienda Ave, Desert Hot Springs, (760) 329-6411 ext. 450.

ANIMAL SAMARITANS – Open to the public. View their animals at www. animalsamaritans.org. Email acorrow@ animalsamaritans.org to foster. Located at 72307 Ramon Rd, Thousand Palms, (760) 6013918. (Private) CALIFORNIA PAWS RESCUE - Call for an appointment to adopt. Located at 73650 Dinah Shore, Palm Desert. View their animals at www.californiapawsrescue.com, (760) 656-8833. (Private) HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE COACHELLA VALLEY – Call for an appointment. This shelter has lots of big dogs and some cats, www.orphanpet.com. Located at 17825 N. Indian Canyon, Palm Springs, (760) 329-0203.

(Private) KITTYLAND – Open to the public to adopt cats and kittens. Located at 67600 18th Avenue, Desert Hot Springs, www.kittylandrescue.org,

May 19 to May 25, 2022

(760) 251-2700. (Private) PRETTY GOOD CAT – Foster based rescue for cats located in La Quinta. Contact them at www.prettygoodcat.com, (760) 660-3414 (Private) LOVING ALL ANIMALS – Call for appointment to adopt dogs. Located at 83496 Avenue 51, Coachella, www.lovingallanimals. org, (760) 834-7000. (Private) ANIMAL RESCUE CENTER OF CALIFORNIA (ARC), Foster based rescue for dogs and cats in Indio. www.thearc-ca.org, (760) 877-7077 (Private) FLUFFS & SCRUFFS – Foster based rescue for small dogs in Cathedral City.

FLUFFSANDSCRUFFS@AOL.COM, (310) 9803383 (Private) SOCIETY’S OUTKAST ANIMAL RESCUE – Foster based rescue for dogs in Rancho Mirage, www.societysoutkasts.com, (760) 832-0617. (Private) LIVING FREE ANIMAL SANCTUARY – Large outdoor shelter for dogs and cats up Hwy 74, Mountain Center, www.living-free.org, (951) 659-4687. (Private) CITY OF SAN BERNARDINO ANIMAL SHELTER – Open 12:00 – 3pm Tues through Sat. Google “City of San Bernardino Animal Shelter” for website to view animals and get the ID number of the animal you want. Located at 333 Chandler Place, San Bernardino, (909) 384-1304 or (909) 384-7272. (Public) SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY ANIMAL SHELTER AT DEVORE – Open 7 days a week.

Call (909) 386-9280, www.sbcounty.gov/ acc and get the ID number of animal you are interested in adopting, 19777 Shelter Way, San Bernardino (Public).

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May 19 to May 25, 2022

BREAKING THE4TH WALL

P

alm Canyon Theatre, hits a fantastical homerun with their current production of “Into the Woods.” In a forest filled with wishes come true and shattered dreams, you’ll find painted trees looming ominously, casting shadows on fairytale characters who have been cursed and are in search of magical solutions. With the first note of music, the first utterance of dialogue and the first sight of characters, the theatre is transformed into a magical world.

Into The Woods, with music and lyrics

by Stephen Sondheim and book by James Lapine, gives insights to the analysis of Bruno Bettelheim’s book, “The Uses of Enchantment: the meaning and importance of fairytale,” exposing the dark underbelly of the fairytales we grew up with.

The story’s Narrator, (Stan Jenson,) helps weave together the plots of several tales from the Brothers Grimm and explores the consequences of the characters' wishes and quests. The main characters are Little Red Riding Hood, (Leslie Benjamin,), Jack, (Anthony Nannini,) and Jack’s mother, (Laura Farber,) from the tale of Jack and the Beanstalk.

Cinderella, (Ana Rangel,) Rapunzel, (Nikki Hock,) and her mother the Witch, (Se Layne,) from the fairytale Rapunzel.

This story is tied together by the tale of a childless baker (David Brooks,) and his wife, (Francesca Amari,) who discover that they are baron, due to a curse cast by a witch. The two set about on a quest to undo the evil magic that keeps them childless. Their journey takes them through an enchanted woods and involves interactions with all of the other storybook characters during their journey.

Into the Woods, is a metaphor for life in many ways, but the most prominent one is the woods symbolizing life itself. Good, (the

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INTO THE WOODS

Baker, his wife, Red Riding Hood, Cinderella,) versus evil, (the wolf, the witch, the giant,) interacting and impacting the direction their lives take.

The show first debuted at the Old Globe Theatre in San Diego in 1986 and had its Broadway opening in 1987. There’s no question as to why this multi-Tony Award winning show was a hit. It’s a world of fairytales that targets all ages. It explores the stories of Cinderella, Jack and the Beanstalk, Little Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel, a baker, a witch and even a cow. It examines their journeys and desires, their wishes and their choices, but it’s so much more than a fairytale. The music will lift you up and the characters will have your eyes glued to their every move.

It’s near impossible to talk about this cast as individuals. They moved and sang and danced, as the well-oiled fantastical storytellers they are. David Brooks owned the stage in his role as the Baker. His singing was masterful and he gave a standout performance as a man in search of truth in a world where nothing is a simple as childhood fairytales. Francesca Amari, is a phenomenal talent and captivates in her role as a character with real human foibles. Amari’s known for her singing talent in the desert and she excels when infusing that love for song into her engaging performance.

The chemistry between Brooks and Amari was palpable.

Se Layne, portrayed the Witch, a central and leading character, whose evil curse was the catalyst for the story. Layne, is by far one of the most outstanding singer/actresses in desert theatre and her performance was flawless. She seamlessly transitioned from the ugly, twisted embodiment of evil, into a beautiful, (still evil) charismatic character.

She was the center of any scene in which she appeared.

I was unexpectedly captivated by Red Riding Hood, Leslie Benjamin, who gave sass, attitude and strength of purpose to a character that has traditionally been portrayed as a victim. Stan Jenson, is a favorite as the Narrator. Jenson, is a gifted actor who makes any role his own. Kam Sisco, in the role of the Mysterious Man, was so much fun to watch. His intermittent appearances brought a genuine levity and intrigue to the storyline.

There is not the space to sing the praises of every individual member of this cast, each and every one of them were just incredible.

The one casting choice that did jump out at me and left me confused about the reasoning was, Cameron Keyes in the female role of Cinderella’s step-sister Lucinda. Keyes, is a wonderful actor, but casting a male in this role seemed to serve zero purpose, added nothing to the script and was actually a bit distracting.

Make-up, sometimes an under-appreciated art, was absolutely stunning in this production and caught my attention immediately. The make-up crew consisted of Sandra Ibanez, Nayeli Lopez, Babesey Morrison and Anika Sanchez. These artists greatly enhanced the appearances and presentations of the characters and showed why this artistic contribution should never be over looked.

Derek Shopinski is the creative force behind this production, serving as director, choreographer and costume designer.

Shopinski, had the opportunity to showcase all of his talents in one glorious presentation and he excelled. The inter-weaving of these characters’ dance movements was like watching a mountain stream flow seamlessly over and around and through the woods and Shopinski’s direction brought it all together in perfect harmony. Steven Smith’s musical direction, and J.W. Layne’s scenic and lighting design were pure delights for the audio and

BY DEE JAE COX visual senses.

If you are looking for a captivating, exciting night of theatre, go see Into the Woods!

Whether you go with friends, family, or just on your own, this is a wonderful night of theatre.

Into The Woods opens May 13th and runs through May 22nd. For tickets, or more information, call the Palm Canyon Theatre Box Office at 760-323-5123 or order online: PalmCanyonTheatre.org.

Dee Jae Cox, is a playwright, director and producer.

Cofounder and Artistic Director of The Los Angeles Women’s Theatre Project. losangeleswomenstheatreproject.org And Co-Creator of the Palm Springs Theatre Go-To Guide, palmspringstheatre.com

HADDON LIBBY

T

he livestreamed shooting spree by 18-year-old Payton Gendron that left ten African Americans dead, and others wounded should be the latest of a growing number of hate crimes sweeping the United States. But it isn’t. On Sunday, David Chou, a Chinese immigrant initiated his own shooting spree at the Geneva Presbyterian Church in Laguna Woods near Irvine. This Taiwanese church was providing a lunch banquet to the fifty parishioners in attendance when Chou opened fire. Due to the bravery of slain Dr. John Cheng, he was the sole fatality.

Earlier in the week, three people were shot in a Koreatown salon in Dallas. In this case, an African American man who has been targeting Asian-owned business is the at-large suspect. The same suspect is believed to have done a similar attack on a Chinese restaurant only one month earlier.

Hate crimes are on the rise. CalState-San Bernardino’s Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism compiled data from the police departments of thirty-seven cities and found that hate crimes are up nearly 40% over 2020.

Looking at only the top ten cities, hate crimes are up 55%.

According to Brian Levin, the executive director of the Center states that early data for the first quarter of 2022 suggests a 30% increase over 2021’s dismal findings. His research suggests that hate crime activity goes up during mid-term elections with the peak violence period being in the sixty days prior to the elections. If May is an indicator, it is going to be a very hot-tempered summer.

This sample set showed that we had more

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BE INTOLERENT OF INTOLERANCE

May 19 to May 25, 2022

BY HADDON LIBBY

than 3,100 hate crimes last year. Looking at Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) statistics for 2020, 8,263 hate crimes were reported.

Using CalState-San Bernardino’s 40% increase estimate for 2021, this would suggest more than 11,000 hate crimes in 2021 with more than 15,000 projected for 2022. When we factor in the impact of the rollback of the Roe vs. Wade decision, we need to be prepared for a very uncivil election season.

A hate crime is defined as a criminal offence motivated by a prejudice against someone’s race, religion, ethnicity, disability, gender, gender identity or sexual orientation.

What can you or I do?

Be nicer. Even if the person serving you is

DALEGRIBOW ON THELAW

chewing glass and spitting it back at you as they work, do not feed upon that negative energy. Be an engine of change and show them the better way to behave. While we all want to complain about dreadful service and high prices and the worker who just doesn’t care, we feed into the problem when we are negative as well. Be a beacon of change and share the light you want others to follow.

Do not accept bad behavior. We all have a friend or family member who embodies the prejudices and anger coursing through many Americans these days. If they behave poorly, tell them how you feel and avoid getting bated into uncivil discourse. Short and simple.

Have them respect you as they wish to be

respected.

When we see hate or bias at work, report it. We need to be intolerant of intolerance.

If we can ban cigarettes from offices, restaurants and other public places, we need to be the same way toward bad behavior. I personally ban carnival barkers like Tucker Carlson who earns millions by fanning the flames of intolerance and prejudice.

When it comes to elected leaders in politics, we need to exclude those who serve as merchants of division and hate. As an example, do not vote for anyone who states that the KKK is filled with good people.

People who align with the more radical elements of both major political parties due to belief or convenience need to be cancelled.

When voting in the upcoming primaries or November mid-terms, do not vote for the status quo if you do not like the status quo.

Haddon Libby is the Founder and Chief Investment Officer of Winslow Drake Investment Management. For information on their award-winning services, please visit www.WinslowDrake.com.

LEGAL REPRESENTATION OF THE INJURED & CRIMINALLY ACCUSED

A TRAFFIC ACCIDENT IS NOT AN INTENTIONAL ACT

W

ith Coachella and Stagecoach, our CV has been inundated with traffic. More traffic means more accidents. However, we must forgive an at fault driver for an accident, because it is just that… an accident and not an intentional act. The accident victim deserves to be fairly compensated for their pain and suffering.

However, what goes into determining value?

Unfortunately, being in an accident does not mean you will receive a fair settlement offer from the insurance company. You did not win the lottery because you were rear ended. Many potential clients do not understand why their case is not as valuable as their neighbors…with similar facts.

Remember, You are not in Good Hands and Your Friendly Neighbor will not give you a Piece of the Rock.

For a successful Accident case you must: STOP and take cell phone pictures and video of cars and injuries. Call the police, even if there are no apparent injuries.

Don’t talk to police or insurance company adjuster.

TAKE DOWN YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA. The insurance companies are watching your Facebook and Twitter posts which may show you playing sports or talking about a vacation. This arguably suggests you are OK and do not need medical treatment and that

you are able to lift your luggage.

Get medical attention immediately, preferably by ambulance. Many Victims do not realize the severity of an injury and do not seek immediate treatment. Later they realize the pain they are experiencing is accident related. Some victims do not take an ambulance because they have to pick up their kids, or because they are concerned about the hospital and ambulance costs.

Without immediate medical treatment in the first 3 days, many lawyers are not interested in the case. This is because the insurance company will argue if the victim was really injured they would have sought immediate medical treatment.

The Victim should NOT give the hospital their insurance/Medicare/Medicaid information: Once Medicare/Medicaid is notified, it takes 6-12 months to get them to respond to lien payment information. In addition there is a new law that the only medical bills that can be considered by the jury are those not paid by any insurance or Medicare/ Medicaid. Today the insurance co has a computer program (Colossus) that analyzes the property damage, amount of med bills, appointments missed, number of treatments, taken by ambulance? etc. It then spits out a settlement value to offer.

Contact a Lawyer immediately, so the insurance co can’t contact you. If you are not represented by an attorney, the insurance company can contact you and try to get a statement. Your lawyer will never know what you said or what the adjuster/investigator thought he heard you say. With a lawyer, there is less of a chance for a “mistake” by the insurance company.

Ask your lawyer for assistance in obtaining medical care on a lien.

Go to your lawyer’s body shop. The Insurance companies usually recommend body shops, with whom they have a working relationship, and who agree to keep the property damage estimates low. When settling the case, the adjuster argues, since the property damage is low, then how could the Victim be injured. The last thing a lawyer wants is for his client to get his friend to fix the car cheaply.

You should have high auto liability and UM coverage, because many of our neighbors have no insurance or inadequate limits. Be sure you have Medical Payments coverage. No matter who is at fault, you can present a claim under the med pay section of your policy, for up to that amount of money needed to pay your medical bills.

With $25,000 of med pay coverage, you can collect up to $25,000 from your own policy

no matter who is at fault.

Follow your lawyers’ instructions.

Do not sign anything. It could be a release or an authorization for medical records. Do not trust the adjuster who says if you have further problems they will take care of it.

Remember: Handcuffs are Silver, BUT SILENCE IS GOLDEN… so DON’T TALK to the POLICE, or INSURANCE CO, without your lawyer’s permission.

SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE ARTICLE? CONTACT DALE GRIBOW 760 837 7500/ dale@dalegribowlaw.com DALE GRIBOW - REPRESENTING THE INJURED AND CRIMINALLY ACCUSED “TOP LAWYER” - California’s Prestige Magazine, Palm Springs Life (PI/DUI) 2011-22 “TOP LAWYER” - Inland Empire Magazine PERFECT 10.0 AVVO Peer Rating BY fellow CV lawyers.

“PREEMINENT” Rating - Martindale Hubbell Legal Directory Legal Eagle "Best and Brightest Legal Minds" by Palm Springs Life“DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE OR TEXT AND GET A DUI OR ACCIDENT. CALL A TAXI, LYFT OR UBER. THEY ARE A LOT CHEAPER THAN CALLING ME”. SO DRIVE SOBER OR GET PULLED OVER.

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May 19 to May 25, 2022

SENDME A TRAINER

T

hrough my years of competing and personal training I have noticed the one main ingredient that keeps people from reaching their fitness goals; consistency!

People tend to be impatient when it comes to exercise. I get it; we want what we want when we want it, right? Too many times people do not give their exercise or nutrition plans enough time to reap the benefits they are looking for.

THE 3 KEYS TO CONSISTENCY As a coach and from my experience with over 10 years in the industry, I feel there are three main components in any exercise program to build lean muscle and lose unwanted body fat. These components are resistance training (lifting weights or using body weight), cardiovascular exercise and proper nutrition. All three are equally important in achieving your goals in fitness.

If one is not executed consistently, the other two will suffer and so will your progress. Don't get me wrong; to assume we can be perfect, 100% of the time will just be setting ourselves up for failure. It should be about progress, not perfection. Your goal should be to follow your programs the best you can most of the time.

The longer the time you stick with something the better you will become at it. Here are a few ways we can remain more consistent with our exercise and nutrition programs.

RESISTANCE TRAINING Depending on your goals, you should perform some type of resistance training with weights anywhere from 3-6 times per week. The importance of resistance training is that it will help increase your lean, toned body mass, thus giving a better shape to the body and increasing your basal metabolic rate (look it up!). Muscle

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CONSISTENCY IN FITNESS

BY COACH NADIA POPOVA

is like a 24-hour furnace, so we must be sure we maintain or even increase our lean muscle to keep the metabolism on the rise.

To help keep you more dedicated; I would find a workout partner or hire the help of a qualified personal trainer or coach. This way you are held accountable. I am more likely to work out if I know there is someone who keeps me accountable.

CARDIOVASCULAR TRAINING Cardiovascular activity is necessary to keep the metabolism roaring and help you burn some extra calories that will lead to fat loss. The main reason I choose to do a moderate amount of cardio is that it allows me to eat more food and still achieve the fat loss results I am looking for. Some people who rely on diet alone to lose fat usually find themselves losing weight but also a lot of muscle. They become a smaller version of their flabby self. Keeping a little bit more food in the diet, but using effective high intensity cardio sessions to burn more calories, will end up in retention of lean muscle while losing the fat.

SAFETY TIPS

BY FIRE CHIEF SAM DIGIOVANNA

YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT YOU HAVE UNTIL IT’S GONE!

I

have been writing fire & life safety articles for the Coachella Valley Weekly for almost 10 years. Thank you, Tracy Dietlin, for the kindness you have displayed to me for almost a decade. This article is a tribute to my dad who recently passed. My dad was instrumental in writing this article regarding golf safety in 2014 - https://lnkd.in/gpCkg5uM. My dad was (and still is to me) one of the most kindhearted people you would ever meet. He would give the shirt off his back and help anyone in need. I know he enjoyed working with me on the golf safety article. My dad is now in heaven with my mom, sister, his parents, and brother among so many other loved ones. It’s now just myself and my three brothers. Life goes by quickly. Why do we often take for granted the things that deserve our gratitude the most?

We do this with both people and possessions. The problem is many people do not realize this until the situation has come and passed. We take things for granted daily, always with the assumption that whenever we need something or someone, it will be there.

There are many things we fail to realize the true value of until they are missing from our lives. Think of technology, the Internet, and your cell phone. You do not realize how vital your cell phone is to your life until you have to go days without it. Enjoy the little things in life

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because someday you will realize they were the big things.

Lastly, I want to thank so many of his friends throughout the Coachella Valley and especially at Indian Palms Country Club for being so kind to him. Thank you for your love and kindness as you know dad loved his golf!

Also, thank you Ignacia Flores, of Forest Lawn Memorial Parks & Mortuaries. She is a Family Services Director in Cathedral City who is and was so helpful, patient and comforting during this difficult time. Thank you, Ignacia!

If possible a few days per week, I recommend doing your cardio first thing in the morning, 2030 minutes plus, before breakfast (fasted). This way it is out of the way, and it will really boost your energy for a good portion of the day to follow. It is a little tough in the beginning, but after a week, you will feel so good doing it, you will be locked in a routine.

NUTRITION This is where I find the biggest inconsistency lies with most clients. Some are good for 2-3 days, but blow it for two days, etc. This vicious cycle will lead to frustration and no results.

Instead of following an extreme diet plan, I rather you follow a nutrition plan that is moderate and one you feel you can follow every day for most of the time. Find a plan that is filled with the healthy foods you like that allow you to feel fed and NOT deprived.

NO, this does not mean ice cream! BUT once in a long while, you can indulge and enjoy.

Moderation is the key. But even if you slack and indulge in one or two of your meals, the day is not ruined; just start back to your healthy

eating for your next meal following.

Convenience is a big factor that affects the consistency of eating the right foods. I recommend you get in the habit of preparing your own meals ahead of time. This will eliminate the excuses of stopping off at a fast food place because you have nothing to eat. It will eliminate the excuse for skipping a much-needed meal. I cook meats, veggies and starches on Sunday and Wednesday.

CONCLUSION A consistent and effective routine will take some time to develop. After a couple of weeks, it will be part of your everyday process. Once you hit that level it is smooth sailing, almost "auto-pilot." Sure, in the beginning it will be difficult at times to prepare all your meals, do all your cardio, and hit every training session.

You will get used to it, I promise and there will come a point where you will not even think about it because it will be a consistent part of your daily routine. It is just a matter of convincing yourself that you can do it and giving yourself time to get there. The more time you do it, the more confidence you will develop to stick with it. So please go out there and try your best, you owe it to yourself! Take care and I am here to help!

To hire one of our trainers that will come to you please visit CVSendMeATrainer.com OR CALL (760)880-9904.

Stay healthy!

EDUCATION

C

ollege of the Desert will present more than 1,600 degrees and certificates to a record number of graduates during this year’s commencement ceremony, to be held in person on Wednesday, May 25, 2022.

The event returns to the Indian Wells Tennis Garden, 78-200 Miles Ave. in Indian Wells, for the first time since public gatherings were curtailed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Commencement was held virtually in 2020 and 2021, but those classes are invited to participate in this year’s ceremony.

“We are looking forward to celebrating our graduates for their accomplishments,” said Superintendent/President Martha Garcia, Ed.D. “Our students have demonstrated incredible resilience and perseverance during one of the most challenging times in history, and it is our pleasure to recognize their hard work.”

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May 19 to May 25, 2022

FREEWILL ASTROLOGY

WEEK OF MAY 19

College of the Desert offers numerous initiatives to attract and retain students, including: EDGE/plEDGE, which provides two years of free tuition for local high school graduates and ongoing support; specialty programs for military Veterans and underrepresented students; campus expansions and satellite programs to expand opportunities and access across the entire Coachella Valley.

“As more students receive diplomas and certificates, more of them will move on to higher paying jobs right here in the valley, not only improving their own lives and the lives of their families, but also the regional economy,” Garcia said.

This year’s graduation ceremony begins at 7:30 p.m. and will be live streamed at collegeofthedesert.edu/2022Commencement For more information, please visit collegeofthedesert.edu.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): “The only way to the truth is through blasphemy,” declared Aries author Flannery O’Connor. I appreciate the cheeky sentiment, but I don’t believe that all truth requires blasphemy. In many cases, rebellion, irreverence, and skepticism may be enough to pry loose hidden and buried information. Outright blasphemy isn’t necessary. What does this have to do with you?

Well, I’m hoping you will be feisty and audacious in your quest for interesting truths. As you dig, I invite you to be less than perfectly polite. Don’t be rude or unkind, of course. Just be charmingly bold.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): “I am so beautiful, sometimes people weep when they see me,” declares comedian Margaret Cho. I would love for you to summon her level of self-esteem and bravado in the coming weeks. According to my interpretation of the astrological omens, you now have the right and duty to boost your self-worth.

All of creation is conspiring with you to develop more faith in yourself. And if you do the work to deepen your confidence and self-esteem, there will be an added bonus: a health breakthrough.

As spiritual author Caroline Myss says, “Belief in oneself is required for healing.” My prediction: You will rouse an enhanced power to get the soul medicine you need.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): According to the blogger Artemisiasea, “The grandeur of life is the attempt, not the solution. It’s about behaving as beautifully as one can under completely impossible circumstances; making room for what breathes in the presence of the attempt—in the coming-tobe.” I invite you to embrace that wisdom in the coming weeks, Gemini. You won’t be dealing with impossible circumstances, but you may have to navigate your way through fascinating brainteasers and heart riddles. Whatever your destination might turn out to be, enjoy the ride with all the verve you can summon. At least for now, put aside your longing for particular results and instead simply live your life as if it were a magnificent work of art.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): It will be in your interest to change more than usual in the coming weeks. I suppose you could wait around passively and scramble to adjust as life flings challenges your way. But the better approach would be to make conscious decisions about how you want to transform. Identify the situations that would most benefit from modification and then initiate the transitions. Rather than depending on fate to provide you with random wake-up calls, choose constructive wake-up calls that are fun and invigorating.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): “If everyone likes you, it probably means you aren’t saying much,” declared politician Donna Brazile. I suspect you will disprove her theory in the coming weeks. According to my reading of the astrological omens, you will have a lot to say; your communications will be even more interesting than usual. And yet, I also expect you will receive extra respect and appreciation from others. While you may articulate ideas that are challenging to some, you will do so with enough charisma to disarm agitated reactions. A winning combination: expressiveness and approval.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Have you heard of Virgo adventurer Reinhold Messner? The man is a marvel, and not just because he’s a passionate environmental activist. He was the first mountaineer to reach the top of Mt. Everest alone, as well as the first to ascend Everest without supplemental oxygen. No one before him had ever climbed all 14 of the world’s peaks higher than 26,000 feet. He has transited Greenland and Antarctica without the aid of dog sleds or snowmobiles. He also completed a solo trip across the Gobi Desert. I propose we make Messner your inspirational role model for the next four weeks.

You may not achieve history-making triumphs like him, but you could surpass what you assumed were your limits. I trust that you will break at least one of your personal records.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): “The world is a very puzzling place. If you’re not willing to be puzzled, you just become a replica of someone else’s

© Copyright 2022 Rob Brezsny

mind.” Author Noam Chomsky said that. It’s useful counsel for you right now. I’ll go even further. I will advise you to relish the healthy pleasures of being both mysterious and mystified. Seek out fertile enigmas and be a fertile enigma yourself. Explore the rejuvenating wisdom of being indefinable and uncategorizable. Exult in the quizzical joys of Eternal Paradox.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Have you ever contemplated the beauty of the people and animals you care for and thought, “I would love to give them the strongest blessings I have to give, the smartest love I can express, and the best listening I’m able to provide.” If so, Scorpio, the coming days will be an excellent time to do that.

You will have an extra capacity to offer exceptional gifts that are useful and inspirational. You will be at the peak of your ability to home in on what your beloveds need.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Sagittarian author Madeleine L’Engle told us, “The discoveries don’t come when you’re looking for them.

They come when for some reason you’ve let go conscious control.” That approach isn’t absolutely true, but it may be useful for you to deploy in the coming weeks. I invite you to relinquish at least a modicum of your conscious control. And if zesty discoveries start flowing in, consider relinquishing even a bit more conscious control.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Is it a legend or a true story? Scholars disagree about whether Capricorn scientist Isaac Newton really was spurred to formulate the theory of gravity when an apple fell from the tree he was sitting beneath. This much is certain: Newton lived in the home near the famous apple tree. And that tree is alive today, 380 years after his birth. Ripe apples still fall from it. Is there an equivalent landmark or keystone from your own past, Capricorn—where an important insight arose or pivotal event happened? The coming weeks would be a good time to revisit that power spot, at least in your imagination, in quest of fresh inspiration.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Aquarian poet Jack Gilbert devoted himself to soulful beauty.

I swooned when I first read his line, “We must unlearn the constellations to see the stars.” I cried for joy when he said, “We must have the stubbornness to accept our gladness in the ruthless furnace of this world.” On the other hand, I suspect Jack may have been overly consumed with his pursuit of lyrical moments. His girlfriend Linda Gregg said, “All Jack ever wanted to know was that he was awake—that the trees in bloom were almond trees—and to walk down the road to get breakfast. He never cared if he was poor or had to sleep on a park bench.” I bring this up, dear Aquarius, hoping you will avoid Gilbert’s lack of attention to practical matters. In the coming weeks, I invite you to be your extravagant, idiosyncratic, interesting self to the max. But also be sure to eat healthy food, engage in pleasurable exercise, and get plenty of rejuvenating sleep—preferably in a comfortable bed rather than on a park bench.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): The Uberfacts Twitter account informs me that if you were to consume the amount of food equivalent to what a hummingbird eats, you would eat 300 hamburgers or 7,800 cabbages per day. To match the amount of exercise a hummingbird gets while burning all those calories, you’d have to do approximately 37 bazillion jumping jacks. You will never do this, of course. But in the coming weeks, you may be more metaphorically hungry than usual. I predict you will be voracious for new information and novel experiences and fresh ideas. Not 300 hamburgers or 7,800 cabbages’ worth—but still, a lot. My advice: Have fun being insatiably curious and greedy for stimulation.

Homework: Is there a situation you’re being lazy about? Should you be more discerning?

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

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May 19 to May 25, 2022

CYBER CORNER

H

ave you ever considered updating your business phone service, perhaps to reduce your phone bill, or maybe how VOIP works? Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is a well-established technology that allows anybody to make phone calls over the internet. With the growth of broadband, VoIP has emerged as the clear choice for phone service for both individuals and companies. People prefer VoIP phone service to conventional phone lines. Why? It has many more features than analog phones.

And it can accomplish all of this for less price.

Cloud phone service companies provide strong capabilities that are not available with traditional phone service. Auto attendants, call recording, custom caller ID, voicemail to email, and so much more features are available. You can also take calls and work from any location using cell phone and desktop applications.

How VoIP works - VoIP works by turning voice into digital data and delivering it over your router's Internet connection. VoIP allows conventional phone conversations to be made over the internet while still providing all of the features that classic PBX systems provide, such as voicemail, call waiting, call forwarding, conference calling, caller ID, and more. VoIP software interacts nicely with desktop computers, allowing them to be used as "softphones." The only condition is that they provide speech and audio input/output.

Here's how VoIP works in four easy steps.

• In your Local Area Network, your phone connects to your switch or router (LAN).

• Your IP phone tells your VoIP service provider to call the other party when you dial a phone number.

• The call is established by your VoIP service, and data packets from your IP phone are exchanged.

• These digital impulses are converted back into an audio signal by your VoIP phone.

The telephone company is completely bypassed with Voice over Internet Protocol.

VoIP can be used from anywhere with a highspeed internet connection. It's a significant improvement over a traditional phone system.

10 Things to consider before making the jump to VOIP - According to a recent survey, 31% of businesses have shifted to cloud phones. That implies that, while many customers have shifted, there are still many more who need to migrate from analogue or PRI phone systems to a VoIP-based system.

Total Costs - Though VoIP has cheaper monthly rates and equipment costs, every option that involves a financial investment should be considered from a budgetary viewpoint. The total cost exceeds the advertised or sticker price of a VoIP service. You may discover that the quoted price excludes optional features, one-time charges, or other miscellaneous charges. Make sure you receive a written breakdown of the various charges and the final price from the vendor. Your monthly bills should be fairly regular, with no unexpected shocks along the way. Other costs will be incurred when upgrading to VoIP in addition to the monthly fee paid to the vendor.

Allow for these line items in your budget as well. Depending on your conditions, preparing your network for VoIP might be costly.

Startup Fees - The cost of VoIP phones varies based on the upfront installation costs. One of the first decisions to make is whether to host your PBX phone system on-site (“on-site PBX”) or to utilise a hosted PBX phone system (“offsite PBX”). Of course, as with any significant business choice, there are advantages and disadvantages to each. If you're interested in

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WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT BUSINESS VOIP

10 THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE MAKING THE JUMP TO VOIP

everything VoIP has to offer, you're definitely drawn in by its substantial cost-saving options.

A cloud-based VoIP phone system offers a third option. This is an excellent choice if your company is on the go and you want to save some money.

There are a few more things that businesses should consider. They should keep in mind when opting for one of the solutions that will work for their company. The cost of a VoIP phone system varies depending on the size of the company and the number of users. There is also the cost of renting the equipment and the VoIP package itself. Small businesses, for example, will benefit from KSU-free systems due to their scale. They are available for as little as $30 and as low as two lines.

For businesses with 40 or fewer users, key telephone systems are preferable. These will feature critical systems that can perform more than just a phone call. These units should cost between $300 and $1,000 per extension. The VoIP phone cost of a PBX telephone system should be between $1000 and $4000. These systems will be ideal for larger companies with more than 40 employees. These units include advanced features that are useful to company communications.

Plans, Features, and Support - Some service providers give a variety of plans from which to choose. What matters is that they have a strategy that is appropriate for you, not the overall number. In reality, service providers with fewer plans make it simple to choose. You don't have to find out what the differences are between different plans.

Check to see if the features you want are included in the plan cost or if they need an additional fee. Some features have a one-time charges, while others have recurring payments.

Check the fine print to discover what you're paying for and make certain you receive it.

Ask your the vendor regarding support for third-party corporate systems such as CRM and ERP. A good VoIP phone service should be compatible with your existing tools. Inquire about mobile device, softphone application, and third-party SIP hardware support. While you may not require sophisticated features right now, they should be available to you tomorrow.

Device Compatibility & Requirements - If you don't already have IP phones, you'll need to get them before making the move.

Many service providers may source your phones or offer recommendations on which models would function best with their service.

As previously stated, you should have a list of features that you desire from your VoIP service.

It is also critical that the phones you use have the features listed on your list. Most service providers will offer you with the most recent

phones with all the bells and whistles, or they will be able to provide a recommendation if you need to purchase your own.

Internet/Network Requirements - Check to see whether your current network architecture can accommodate VoIP and can handle the increased network traffic. You should also know whether your infrastructure is capable of handling the specific requirements of audio and video traffic, such as supporting any Quality of Service (QoS) or virtual LAN (VLAN) requirements. If your existing routers or switches do not offer certain features, you may need to upgrade your infrastructure. You may also need to change your Internet Service Provider (ISP) if your present provider is unable to meet the bandwidth needs of high-volume phone traffic. Your VoIP vendor should be able to estimate how much your call volume will increase your bandwidth, but you may also engage an outside expert to conduct those calculations.

Reliability - In general, VoIP phone services for small companies are more dependable than they were previously. However, you should not be afraid to ask detailed questions about each vendor. Ask whether they have a plan in place for emergency and disaster management. What happens if your phone line fails? At the very least, you should be able to automatically route calls to a landline or cell number. Can your employees continue to work from a different location? In the event of a natural or man-made disaster, how soon can you relocate and resume work? You should also inquire about the vendor's datacenters and infrastructure. Do they have a range of backup options? What tools do they have to ensure that your phones continue to work?

These are critical questions to ask and obtain information.

Hosted or Onsite VoIP - The first step in installing VoIP Service is deciding whether to use a hosted or on-site solution. If you are not familiar with VoIP services, this might be a difficult option. While visiting an expert may certainly make things smoother and simpler, it is even preferable to have some of your own expertise before consulting the experts.

Because everything is handled by a third party firm, a hosted VoIP system is typically an excellent choice for inexperienced VoIP beginners. Using the hosted VoIP system, customers with little infrastructure and no extra IT personnel may easily transition to VoIP service and get the benefits it provides, just like other VoIP service professionals. This method is popular among small businesses with limited resources. An on-site VoIP system implies that you have all of the phone system gear needed to run the phone system immediately on site.

This is an ideal option for large businesses that want more customised functions.

Scalability & Growth - You won't have to worry about installing new hardware to handle new extensions as your business grows.

Extending VoIP service is as easy and affordable as acquiring another approved phone with plug-and-play adaptability. At most, adding a VoIP-enabled phone to your network will need a few configuration changes. Additionally, you might install the softphone client software on other networked PCs. VoIP enables for the addition or removal of any number of phones and extensions. So you may do what is best for your company's present needs.

Migration & Training Process - Before deciding on a VoIP service, learn about their migration process. The transition should

BY DENNIS SHELLY ideally be smooth, with little to no downtime.

Migrating involves several steps, so be sure your VoIP is organised and attentive to your demands at each step. In a perfect world, the provider would handle all of the heavy work, but you may need to participate as well.

Installing software, sourcing phones, moving your phone number to the new system, connecting the phones, and porting your phone number to the new phones are all phases in the migration process. Before the new system goes live, your VoIP provider should ensure that you are prepared and aware about it. Your team should ideally have training manuals and tutorial videos. Live training is also advantageous since it allows employees to answer questions and receive assistance in real time.

Contract Length, Termination Costs & Fees Review the Service Level Agreement (SLA) carefully. This contract specifies the roles and obligations of all parties. This is where you'll discover your uptime/downtime assurances, planned maintenance periods, compensation for excess downtime, and other important information. Is maintenance included in the specified uptime? Make certain that you comprehend every part of this important document.

Sometimes, with monthly subscription, rates are lower and many do not require a contract. Much depends on how much phone traffic you have on a regular basis. At worst, you're not going to spend any more money than you currently are. However, you will benefit from the extra value that VoIP may provide.

You should not be forced to use a VoIP provider that you dislike. If, after testing the service, you discover that it is not what you expected, you may choose to work with a new VoIP supplier or return to your previous system. So, when you choose a service, be sure you understand how you may get out of the contract. Is there a signed contract? Are there any penalties for leaving? How can you get the equipment back? Is it necessary to pay for shipping? If you prepare for the worst-case situation, you may end up saving money and time if your new provider isn't a good fit.

These are the 10 most critical considerations when choosing the best phone service for your company. However, you may have additional company-specific needs. To make the best decision, compare each provider to all of the criteria. Finally, check reviews from previous and present customers. Inquire about the phone service of certain business owners and management. Seek advice from experts. Many internet review sites evaluate various service providers to provide you with more options.

Migrating to VoIP does not have to be tough or complicated. If you follow these principles, you will have a simple and seamless transition for you and your employees.

Still debabting on wether to switch your business communications solution or perhaps have some additional questions regarding VOIP technology? Our Voice Solution Eggsperts are standing by to help. Please contact us by calling (760) 205-0105 or emailing us at tech@eggheadit.com with your questions or suggestions for our next article.

IT | Networks | Phones | Security | Automation

TRAVEL TIPS4U

DESERT HOT SPRINGS, CA

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BIJAN MASOUMPANAH ARTIST

May 19 to May 25, 2022

ARTICLE & PHOTOS

BY LYNNE TUCKER has an impressive body of work including paintings, murals, sculpture, photography, and digital arts. The eco-awareness series of works using the image of earth from space in novel and thought provoking scenes, symbolizing the fragile environment on which we depend, is available on Bijan’s website in the form of many different products.

Bijan Masoumpanah is presently represented by: Mehdi Fine Art Gallery 401 North Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs CA 92262 Check Out One of Our Local Coachella Valley Artists and Enjoy His Work!

B

orn in Tehran, Iran. Bijan Masoumpanah grew up in the land of poets, scholars, art and architecture.

At an early age his talent was recognized by friends and at school. At the age of twentyseven he left Iran for England in order to develop a more diverse understanding of art. After studying art for three years in London, Bijan moved to the United States and continued his art education at Portland State University. Bijan received various awards.

Bijan Masoumpanah is a master of several disciplines of visual and decorative arts. He

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May 19 to May 25, 2022

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May 19 to May 25, 2022

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